WO2003007281A1

WO2003007281A1 - An illuminatable display assembly

Info

Publication number: WO2003007281A1
Application number: PCT/AU2002/000933
Authority: WO
Inventors: Michael Kenneth East
Original assignee: Michael Kenneth East
Priority date: 2001-07-10
Filing date: 2002-07-10
Publication date: 2003-01-23
Also published as: AUPR625401A0

Abstract

A display assembly which can be illuminated, the display assembly comprising a substantially transparent member, the member having a wall or face which is provided with at least one indentation which passes into the body of the member, and at least one light source which is adapted to shine light through the transparent member and along a direction which is substantially parallel to the said wall or face.

Description

AN ILLUMINATABLE DISPLAY ASSEMBLY

FIELD OF THE INVENTION This invention is directed to a display assembly which can comprise a clear Perspex or other type of member, the Perspex being provided with grooves or other types of indentations, and at least one light source, for instance a LED, which shines through the side of the Perspex to illuminate the walls of the grooves or indentations, to give a prominent visual display. The grooves can comprise letters, graphics, art work, and the like.

BACKGROUND ART Illuminated display signs find wide popularity. The ranges of use of such signs are almost unlimited. A conventional display sign has a box type housing, and one or more side walls of the housing are formed from translucent plastic. A bright light source such as a incandescent or fluorescent light is positioned inside the housing. Various combinations of letters, graphics and the like can be applied to the side walls usually as one or more stickers which are stuck onto the side walls. When the light is on, it will backlight the stickers to provide an illuminated display sign. These types of devices suffer from some disadvantages, including bulk size, power consumption, and the like.

Another type of known illuminated display sign is widely used in buildings and typically as an emergency exit sign. These signs comprise rectangular solid translucent plates usually formed from Perspex or similar material. A flexible sticker containing the desired wording (eg, Exit) is stuck onto the opposed side faces of the display sign. A fluorescent tube is positioned in the ceiling of the building and immediately above the top of the display sign. Light from the fluorescent tube illuminates the display sign, and the sticker is manufactured such that the wording is cut out of the remainder of the sticker and therefore the wording becomes illuminated if the fluorescent tube is turned on. This type of display sign also suffers from some disadvantages including limitations in positioning of the fluorescent tube, that the entire solid plate is illuminated, and the sticker requires dark zones to mask those parts of the plate which are not to glow.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION The present invention is directed to a illuminated display assembly which uses a light source passing through the side of a Perspex or similar material, and where the light source only substantially illuminates parts of the material which has been grooved or otherwise treated to intercept the light passing through the material.

In one form, the invention resides in a display assembly which can be illuminated, the display assembly comprising a substantially transparent member, the member having a wall or face which is provided with at least one indentation which passes into the body of the member, and at least one light source which is adapted to shine light through the transparent member and along a direction which is substantially parallel to the said wall or face. In this manner, it is found that the light intercepts the grooves or indentations at a desired angle and is found that the grooves will glow quite brightly and will certainly stand out from the remainder of the member. It is preferred that the member is chosen such that light passing through the member will be relatively invisible, and the light only becomes substantially visible when the light strikes the wall of a groove or indentations.

The display assembly can have an almost unlimited number of uses. Clearly, one use will be as an emergency exit sign. However, countless other uses are envisaged.

The substantially transparent member may comprise a clear plastic. A suitable clear plastic may include Perspex. The transparent member may comprise materials other than plastic and may comprise glass, quartz, composite materials and the like. The member should be substantially transparent to enable the light to pass a substantial distance through the member without diminishing. Therefore, the clearer that the member is, the better the assembly may be. However, it is envisaged that the member may in some embodiments be somewhat opaque.

The member may have a variety of shapes, sizes and configurations. For use as a display sign, it is envisaged that the member will be substantially flat. The member may then also be substantially rectangular when viewed in plan. However, there is no requirement for the member to be rectangular, and the member may be other shapes such as circular, oval and other polygonal or irregular shapes. There is also no requirement for the member to be substantially flat, and it is envisaged that the member may be curved, cylindrical and the like. It is preferred that the member has a length which is substantially more than the width or thickness of the member. Thus, if the member is plate like in configuration, it is preferred that the member is relatively thin compared to the length or width of the member. If the member is cylindrical or rod like in configuration, it is preferred that the length of the member is substantially greater than the diameter or cross-section of the member.

The member typically has an outer wall. For instance, if the member comprises a rectangular plate like Perspex sheet, the member will have a front wall, and a back wall, both of which can comprise an outer wall. The sheet will also have a peripheral edge wall. If the member comprises a cylinder or rod, the member will have a single cylindrical outer wall, and two end walls. The, or a said outer wall is provided with at least one indentation. The indentation may comprise a cut, a series of cuts, a machined or otherwise formed groove, slots, engravings or any other type of indentation extending through the outer wall and into the body of the member. The indentation may be patterned or profiled to form letters, recognisable symbols or signs, graphics, artistic works and the like. The indentation may be cut into the member, or otherwise etched into the member, and this can be done through a physical and/or chemical process.

It is preferred that the indentation extends only partially through the member and not entirely through the member. Thus, the indentation may comprise a groove or cut which extends from the outer wall and partially into the body. A plurality of indentations may be provided. These indentations may have different depths into the member. The indentations may also have different profiles, and these may include a substantially V shaped profile, a substantially U shaped profile, and the like. We have found that in order to obtain substantially uniform intensity it is preferable to provide deeper indentations the further away the indentation is from the light source. Thus, whilst shallow indentations adjacent a light source may provide an image of a desired intensity, it will be necessary to form deeper indentations as the distance from the light source increases in order to obtain the same or similar intensity of the image.

In a preferred embodiment the display assembly may include a plurality of transparent members laminated together. Each transparent member may have a different pattern formed in the outer surface thereof whereby shining light through the respective transparent members in a preset sequence may give rise to the appearance of a moving or animated display.

In another form, the display assembly may have a pair of opposed transparent members with indentations or grooves cut in the facing surfaces of the opposed members. Partially reflective films attached to the respective members may create a distance or infinity effect.

The assembly includes at least one light source. The light source is positioned such that light shines through the member along a direction which is substantially parallel to the outer wall which contains the at least one indentation.

Thus, if the member is a plate like member, the light source may extend through an edge wall of the member. If the member is cylindrical, the light source may extend through one or both end walls of the member. Suitably, the light source is positioned such that light will strike the walls of the indentations. If the member is relatively thin, the light source may be positioned anywhere along an edge wall of the member. However, if the member is fairly thick, the light source may have to be positioned on the edge wall but more towards the outer wall which contains the indentation. Typically, the member is relatively thin and therefore the light source can be positioned anywhere on the edge.

Depending on the size, and other factors, a plurality of light sources may be provided. The light sources may be separately operable or may be operable in group as a group array. Thus, a rectangular plate like member may be provided with one or more and preferably between 2-10 light sources typically spaced around the edge wall of the member. A cylindrical or rod like member may be provided with one or more light sources on each end wall.

The light source may be provided by a relatively small but highly intensity light. Suitably, the or each light source is provided by LED (light emitting diode). The light source may provide light of different colours. For instance, the light source may comprise red light, green light, blue light, and the like. Of course, the light source may also be white light. A laser light is also envisaged.

It is envisaged that a plurality of lights might be provided each having a different wavelength.

The light source is typically operated by a switch. The switch may be provided as part of the assembly or at the position remote of the assembly. The switch may be in electrical communications with the light source via an electric lead, but also via remote control and the like. A power source is typically provided to power the light source. The power source may comprise one or more batteries. However, for fixed displays, the power source may comprise mains power. If the power source comprises batteries, these may be provided as part of the assembly, or remote from the assembly, and may be coupled to the light source via an electric lead.

The or each light source can be switched on or off, or can be programmed or otherwise manipulated to provide a continuous or intermittent flashing effect and the like. The light source or groups light sources may be connected to a PIC or switching IC such that an intermittent flashing affect may be achieved. By switching between groups of light sources where each group is of a different colour a colour cycling effect may be obtained. In a preferred configuration the PIC or switching IC may connect to a plurality of different coloured LEDs, for example red, blue and green whereby as each coloured LED is illuminated an animated effect may be produced on the transparent member. The light is directed through the member such that at least portion of the light is directed parallel to the outer wall through which the groove or indentation passes. This ensures that the light intercepts the indentation to cause the indentation to become illuminated.

In order to increase the efficiency of the display assembly the light source is preferably focused through the member. The light source may be focused through the member by a lens within the light source. Alternatively the light source may be surrounded with reflective material such that the light is effectively focused towards the member. In a further preferred configuration the member may be provided with a convex surface adjacent the light source to assist in the focusing of the omitted light through the member.

If the member is substantially plate like, it may be provided with a surround frame. The surround frame may contain the light source. The light source is preferably hidden in the surround frame.

The member may be protected against damage or scratching. In one form, this can be achieved by a protective harder covering sheet, film, plate and the like. For instance, if the member is formed of Perspex, the member may have a glass outer protective cover sheet.

The member may comprise a composite structure or layered structure. This may comprise a number of members attached together. Intermediate layers may be provided which may or may not comprise substantially clear members.

The member may have a mirror backing to improve the visual effect. The member may have inwardly reflecting strips or other means which extend at least partially about the edges of the member.

In one form of the present invention the display assembly may take the form of a keyring or pendant having a covered region under which the battery and any LEDs are housed. A transparent member may extend from the covered housing. Preferably a reflective strip may be provided along the edge of the transparent member so as to enhance the brightness of the illuminated pattern. Alternatively, any LEDs may be disposed underneath a covered housing and the power source or battery may be disposed underneath the transparent member. The battery may be disposed within a backing member that can be coloured to enhance the effect of the illuminated display.

In another form the invention may be in the form of a badge or label, particularly suited for use in darkness. For example a nightclub security badge may be provided having a housing covering a plurality of LEDs and a battery and extending from said housing a transparent member having a suitable label such as "security" or the like engraved within the member. In order to make the badge or label smaller in size the battery may be disposed behind the transparent layer within a suitable housing with a suitable backing sheet therebetween.

In another embodiment of the present invention the display assembly may be in the form of a light stick having a base incorporating a LED and battery and a transparent rod extending therefrom. The rod may be an acrylic rod and have etchings in its surface whereby the light generated by the

LED is emitted therefrom.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the following drawings in which:

Figure 1. Illustrates a plan view of a flat display assembly according to an embodiment of the invention.

Figure 2. Illustrates the assembly of Figure 1 in side view. Figure 3. Illustrates a cylindrical display assembly according to another embodiment of the invention.

Figure 4. Illustrates a section view of a flat display assembly particularly illustrating the cuts or grooves. Figure 5. Illustrates one commercial use of the assembly according to the invention.

Figure 6. Illustrates a plan view of a flat display assembly according to another embodiment of the invention.

Figure 7. Illustrates a plan view of a flat display assembly having multiple LEDs illuminated through a switching assembly.

Figure 8. Illustrates an exploded view of a multi-layer display assembly according to one embodiment of the invention.

Figure 9. Illustrates a plan view of a pendent or charm produced according to the present invention. Figure 10. Illustrates a plan view of a pendant or charm produced according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 11. Illustrates an illuminated badge produced according to one embodiment of the invention.

Figure 12. Illustrates a plan view of a badge according to another embodiment of the invention.

Figure 13. Illustrates a display assembly according to another embodiment of the invention.

Figure 14. Illustrates a display assembly according to another embodiment of the invention. Figure 15. Illustrates a light stick produced using an embodiment of the present invention.

BEST MODE Referring to the drawings, and initially to figures 1 ,2 and 4, there is illustrated a display assembly which can be illuminated. The display assembly 10 in this embodiment comprises a substantially flat rectangular clear member 11 which comprises a Perspex sheet. In the embodiment, the Perspex sheet has a length of between 25-30 cm, a width of approximately 20 cm, and a thickness of between 2-6 mm. A surround frame 12 is provided which clips over the edges of the Perspex sheet. The Perspex sheet is provided with an indentation in the form of a pattern 13 which comprises V shaped cut grooves 14 in the bottom face of the Perspex sheet.

Referring to figure 4, the V shaped cut grooves 14 can be clearly seen and have been cut into the bottom face 15 of the Perspex sheet. By being cut into the bottom face, the top face 16 remains smooth and can be easily wiped clean without damaging the grooves.

The depth and type of cuts can be varied for added lighting effects, and different coloured light emitting diodes can be provided and the Perspex material can be layered to provide additional effects. The assembly 10 contains four light sources 17-20 which comprise bright light emitting diodes. These diodes are positioned in the surround frame 12. The edge of the Perspex sheet is cut to allow the diode to fit into the edge of the Perspex sheet. This is best illustrated in figure 4.

The light emitting diodes 17-20 are powered by a battery pack 21. Battery pack 21 contains an on-off switch 22. Activation of switch 22 will activate the light emitting diode 17-20. A lead 23 connects the battery pack and a switch to the light emitting diodes. Of course, the battery pack and the switch is according to an embodiment only, and the battery may also be provided in the surround frame 12 etc. the switch may also be a remote control switch and the like.

Referring to figure 5, there is illustrated how the grooves or indentations can be formed into text letters. Activation of the light emitting diodes

24 will cause light to pass through the length of the Perspex sheet and to strike and reflect from the cut or grooves to cause the text letters to become illuminated.

Figure 3 illustrates another embodiment. In this embodiment, a solid cylindrical Perspex rod 25 is provided. Rod 25 has a cylindrical outer face which is provided with a range of indentations or cuts 26. Rod 25 has two end faces 27, 28. A light emitting diode 29 (hidden under the masking tape) shines through end face 28 and illuminates the cuts 26. Below rod 25 is a cylindrical battery housing 30 and an end of switch 31 is provided which can switch on or off the light emitting diode 29.

Figure 6 shows a display assembly having an outer cover. Underneath the outer cover are batteries and LEDs connected thereto. Within the frame formed by the cover there is disposed a transparent member having a pattern etched on one surface. On illuminating the LEDs the light emitted through the transparent member is concentrated at the etched pattern forming an illuminated display. Figure 7 shows part of a display assembly where multiple LEDs having group arrange of selected colours being red, blue and green are connected to a switching device in the form of a switching integrated circuit. The group arrays may be switched to give a colour cycling effect.

Figure 8 shows three laminated transparent members in exploded view. The animations are etched in the respective surfaces such that illuminating the respective layers in a desired sequence results in an animated effect.

Figure 9 shows a pendent or charm (alternatively in the form of a keyring or tag) having a battery and LED disposed within a covered region of the article. Extending from the covered region of the article is a transparent member, preferably an acrylic member with a pattern etched in one sur ace thereof. The battery may be connected to the LED by a suitable switching device whereby the user may selectively illuminate the transparent member.

Figure 10 shows a pendant having an LED disposed within a cover adjacent the side of the transparent member. Below the transparent member is a housing for the battery.

Figures 11 and 12 show illuminated badges whereby a transparent member having a message or label engraved therein. The LEDs are disposed under a cover adjacent the transparent member. Figure 11 shows the battery also disposed under the cover. Figure 12 shows the battery disposed in a housing underneath the transparent member.

Figure 13 shows a pair of opposed transparent members having etchings formed in the opposing faces of the respective members. Reflective films are applied to the outer surface of their respective members. The reflective films are partially reflective in that a proportion of the light is reflected internally within the transparent member and a proportion is emitted therefrom thus producing a repeat or infinite effect.

Figure 14 shows a similar display assembly to that shown in Figure 13 using a single transparent member. A completely reflective film may be applied to one side of the transparent member and a partially reflective film applied to the other surface such that when viewed through the partially reflective surface a repeating image may also be viewed.

Figure 15 shows a light stick formed in accordance with the present invention. The light stick includes a transparent member in the form of an acrylic rod with etchings formed in the surface thereof. The acrylic rod is disposed within a base having an LED disposed adjacent one end the acrylic rod. A battery is connected to the LED. A cap or cover is attached to the remote end of the acrylic rod.

It should be appreciated that various other changes or modifications can be made to the embodiment described without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

Claims:

1. A display assembly which can be illuminated, the display assembly comprising a substantially transparent member, the member having a wall or face which is provided with at least one indentation which passes into the body of the

5 member, and at least one light source which is adapted to shine light through the transparent member and along a direction which is substantially parallel to the said wall or face.

2. A display assembly according to claim 1 wherein the substantially transparent member is formed from an acrylic thermoplastic. 0

3. A display assembly according to claim 2 wherein the substantially transparent member is in the form of a sheet or a rod.

4. A display assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein the at least one indentation is disposed in an outer wall of the substantially transparent member.

5 5. A display assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein the at one indentation is selected from the group consisting of cuts, grooves, slots, engravings or combinations thereof.

6. A display assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 5 wherein the at least one indentation has a profile selected from the group consisting of V- o shaped and U-shaped profiles and combinations thereof.

7. A display assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 6 comprising a plurality of substantially transparent members laminated together.

8. A display assembly according to claim 7 wherein each substantially transparent member includes a different pattern of indentations. 5

9. A display assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 8 wherein reflective or partially reflective films are applied to at least one surface of the substantially transparent member.

10. A display assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 9 wherein the at least one light source is positioned adjacent an end wall of the substantially 0 transparent member.

11. A display assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 10 wherein a plurality of light sources are porivded in groups that are selectively operable.

12. A display assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 11 wherein the at least one light source includes a light emitting diode.

13. A display assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 12 wherein the at least one light source may be selectively operable by a switching IC or PIC.

14. Am animated display assembly which can be illuminated, the display assembly comprising a plurality of substantially transparent members, the members having a wall or face which is provided with at least one indentation which passes into the body of the member, and at least one light source which is adapted to shine light through the transparent members and along a direction which is substantially parallel to the said wall or face wherein the plurality of substantially transparent members are laminated together and each includes a different pattern of indentations for sequential illumination to form an animated image.