WO2013170306A1

WO2013170306A1 - Display apparatus

Info

Publication number: WO2013170306A1
Application number: PCT/AU2013/000510
Authority: WO
Inventors: Mike Hamilton
Original assignee: Omnet Ip Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2012-05-17
Filing date: 2013-05-17
Publication date: 2013-11-21
Also published as: AU2013262427A1

Abstract

There is disclosed a display device comprising a body configured to define a display region, within which an image is viewed. A plurality of blade members are mounted within the body such that the blade members combine to traverse the display region. Each blade member is configured to have at least two display surfaces for displaying an image therefrom, Each blade member is rotatably mounted to the body so as rotate about a central axis thereof. A drive mechanism is configured to be in driving engagement with each of the blade members so as to impart rotational motion to the blade members. A controller controls the drive mechanism to move the blade members such that each blade member is orientated within the display region with one of the display surfaces visable such that the image that is viewed within the display region comprises the combined display surfaces of the blade members.

Description

DISPLAY APPARATUS

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority from Australian Provisional Patent Application No. 2012902027, filed 17 May 2012, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF INVENTION

This invention relates to a display apparatus, and in particular, to a display apparatus having multiple display surfaces for selectively displaying both static and moving images.

BACKGROUND ART

Display apparatuses, such as billboards and the like, have been employed in a variety of applications for displaying images and information for viewing by the general public in publically accessible places. Typically, billboards are installed on highly visible and public accessible areas and are of a size and pattern specifically designed to attract an individual's attention. In this regard, conventional billboards are often provided on a canvas or acrylic surface which is adhered or otherwise applied to a display surface, which may be located on a side of a building or a similarly dedicated surface.

Hence, whilst conventional billboards have been effective in displaying and conveying information to the public, particularly in an advertising sense, the pattern or image has not been easily changed/altered/updated without the need to remove the pattern or display, or by posting a new pattern or display over the top of the previous pattern or display.

In order to provide a more variable arrangement and to provide a display apparatus that has the ability to convey multiple messages and images, scrolling billboards or displays have been introduced. Such displays generally employ a scrolled display surface which is constantly rotated by way of a mechanical means to display any one or more multiple images located on dedicated regions of the scroll. Typically, the frequency or intervals of rotation of the scroll can be altered to provide discrete display intervals for each of the images such that the apparatus can resemble a more conventional billboard, with largely static images that change over a predetermined display cycle.

Another type of display arrangement that has proven effective in displaying multiple images, one image at a time, is referred to as a "TriVision" device. This device employs a plurality of elongate triangular prism blades arranged in a vertical or horizontal manner. Each of the three sides of the blades may have a different image provided thereon. In such an arrangement the blades can be rotated such that the sides of the blades each bearing a common image can combine together to form an overall image across the combined surfaces of the blades. Such a device is capable of displaying three different images by merely rotating the individual blades such that any one of the three common surfaces of the blades are displayed.

A TriVision device, such as the one referred to above, has had particular application in sporting fields and arenas. In sporting contests, in particular cricket matches, there is a general requirement for a sightscreen to be positioned behind a bowler to assist the batter in detecting and viewing a cricket ball after it is released by a bowler. The type of sightscreen required is largely dependent upon the colour of the ball being used. In instances where the ball is red, a white or light coloured background is required. Similarly, when the ball being used is white, a black or dark coloured background is required. TriVision devices have been particularly useful for this purpose as they are capable of displaying three different images by merely rotating the blades to align any one of the three sides of the blades together. Hence, one side of the blades can be applied with a white or light coloured coating and another side of the blades with a black or dark coloured coating such that the device is able to function as a sightscreen in either instance, The other side of the blades can then be provided with advertising or other such imagery, such that when the device is not being used as a sightscreen it can be used to display advertising or the like,

However, the ability of a conventional TriVision device is generally limited to static images and cannot be easily adapted to display multiple advertising images or video images on the third face of the blades.

Further, for conventional devices capable of displaying multiple images, a mixture of displaying video and static imagery is typically not possible, due to the technical requirements of the different types of displays. Further to this, for most display devices that can move between different displays, if a power failure occurs or a device failure, the device is typically retained in the position it was in when the failure occurred and is not able to move to a default position

Thus there is a need to provide a display device capable of providing multiple display options as well as having an ability to display moving images which has not been achievable with existing devices.

The above references to and descriptions of prior proposals or products are not intended to be, and are not to be construed as, statements or admissions of common general knowledge in the art. In particular, the above prior art discussion does not relate to what is commonly or well known by the person skilled in the art, but assists in the understanding of the inventive step of the present invention of which the identification of pertinent prior art proposals is but one part.

STATEMENT OF INVENTION

The invention according to one or more aspects is as defined in the independent claims. Some optional and/or preferred features of the invention are defined in the dependent claims.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a display device comprising; a body configured to define a display region, within which an image is viewed; a plurality of blade members mounted within the body such that the blade members combine to traverse the display region, each blade member being configured to have at least two display surfaces for displaying an image therefrom and each blade member is rotatably mounted to the body so as rotate about a central axis thereof; a drive mechanism configured to be in driving engagement with each of the blade members so as to impart rotational motion to the blade members; and a controller for controlling the drive mechanism to move the blade members such that each blade member is orientated within the display region with one of the display surfaces visable; wherein, the image that is viewed within the display region comprises the combined display surfaces of the blade members.

In one embodiment, the at least two display surfaces of each blade member are configured such that one display surface displays an electronically generated image and the at least one other display surface displays a static image. The electronically generated image may be a moving video image or a digital image generated by the controller. The static image may be a single colour image or a pattern formed or otherwise applied on the surface of the at least one other display surface.

In an embodiment, each blade member is in the form of an elongate substantially triangular prism having three display surfaces, with one of the display surfaces displaying an electronically generated image and each of the other two display surfaces displaying a static image.

The display surface for displaying the electronically generated image may comprise a plurality of electronic display modules mounted thereon so as to extend substantially the length of the blade member. Each of the electronic display modules may contain processing electronics for processing a data signal that determines the image to be displayed, and a display for displaying the image. The display may comprise a plurality of LEDs which are controllable by the processing electronics to form the image in accordance with the data signal.

Each blade member may have a power supply extending centrally therein for supplying power to the electronic display module mounted thereto. The power supply may be in the form of a flexible cable that extends centrally within each blade member for delivering an AC power supply to each electronic display module. A plurality of sockets may be provided along the length of the flexible cable for receiving a plug associated with each electronic display module to facilitate powered connection between the electronic display module and the power supply.

Each electronic display module may receive the data signal from the controller to facilitate the image displayed thereon. The controller may contain software for generating the data signal which addresses each of the individual electronic display modules to control individual LEDs present on each electronic display module to form the electronic image. The controller may transmit the data signals to each individual blade member and the data signals may be transmitted between electronic display modules mounted along the blade member by way of a series data connection. The series data connection may be formed by a cable extending between adjacent electronic display modules.

The body of the display device may comprise a frame member that extends about the display region.

The plurality of blade members may be mounted within the frame member so as to extend either horizontally or vertically to traverse the display region. The blade members may be mounted at opposing ends to the frame member so as to freely rotate about their central axis.

The drive mechanism of the display device may comprise a shaft member configured to engage each of the blade members and a motor for imparting rotational motion to the shaft member. The motor may be controlled by the controller such that when the motor imparts rotational motion to the shaft member in a first direction, the blade members may rotate together, to maintain alignment of corresponding display surfaces of the blade members.

The display device may be controllable to display both a static and an electronically generated image in the display region. In this regard, the display device may function as a sightscreen for a cricket match, wherein the static display surfaces may display a static white surface for use with a dark coloured cricket ball and a static black surface for use with a light coloured cricket ball, as well as a third electronic display surface for displaying an electronically generated image when the static black or white surfaces are not required.

In another embodiment, the display device may be used as a road sign capable of being used for displaying static information such as speed limits, travel distances and the like, or for displaying changing images such as emergency information, advertising and the like.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a blade member for a display device comprising: an elongate body having a substantially triangular cross section that provides three display surfaces; a plurality of electronic display modules mountable to one of the display surfaces so as to extend substantially the length of the elongate body to display an electronically generated image , on the display surface; a power supply configured to extend within the elongate body to provide power to the plurality of electronic display modules when mounted on the display surface; and a pair of end mounts provided at each end of the body, each end mount configured to be supported within a structure to enable rotational movement of the elongate body about a central axis thereof, at least one of the end mounts being configured to engage with a drive mechanism to drive said rotational movement of the elongate body.

In an embodiment of this aspect of the present invention, the plurality of electronic display modules may be detachably mountable to the display surface to facilitate repair or replacement of defective electronic display modules. The electronic display modules may be configured such that they selectively engage/disengage with the display surface or may be detachable mounted by one or more engagement members, such as screws, rivets or the like.

Accordingly, in another aspect of the invention there is provided a display device for selectively displaying at least one static image and at least one moving image comprising: a plurality of blade members having at least a first face configured to display a portion of a static image and a second face configured to display at least a portion of a moving image; a support means for supporting the plurality of blade members in an array wherein each blade member is aligned parallel with an adjacent blade member to define a display surface; and a driving means configured to move the blade members between a first position wherein the display surface comprises the first faces of each of the blade members so as to display a static image thereon, and a second position wherein the display surface comprises the second faces of each of the blade members to so as to display a moving image thereon; wherein the second face of each blade member comprises a plurality of video display modules for displaying a moving image thereon, and wherein each video display module is removably mounted to the second face of each blade,

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a blade member for a display device comprising: an elongate body having at least two display surfaces formed thereon; a pair of support members mounted at opposing ends of the elongate body and configured to mount the elongate body to a frame member of the display device such that he elongate body is rotatably movable within the frame member of the display device; and a plurality of display modules removably mounted to a display surface of the elongate body so as to extend substantially along a length of the display surface between the support members, each display module being electrically interconnected to an adjacent display module and comprising a display assembly for displaying a video image and a main body housing control circuitry for controlling the display module.

According in yet another aspect display of the present invention, there is provided a system for selectively displaying at least one static image and at least one moving image comprising: a display device having comprising: a plurality of blade members having at least a first face configured to display a portion of a static image and a second face configured to display at least a portion of a moving image; a support means for supporting the plurality of blade members in an array wherein each blade member is aligned parallel with an adjacent blade member to define a display surface; and a driving means configured to move the blade members between a first position wherein the display surface comprises the first faces of each of the blade members so as to display a static image thereon, and a second position wherein the display surface comprises the second faces of each of the blade members to so as to display a moving image thereon; wherein the second face of each blade member comprises a plurality of video display modules for displaying a moving image thereon, and wherein each video display module is removably mounted to the second face of each blade; a power supply for supplying a poly-phase power signal to the display device to provide power to operate each of the video display modules; and a data supply for supplying information data to the display device representative of a video signal to be displayed by the display device.

In an embodiment of this aspect of the present invention, the power supply may comprises one or more distribution units in electrical communication with one or more blade members of the display device. Each distribution unit may be configured to deliver power continuously to the display modules of a blade member. The power may be distributed to the one of more display modules of a blade member by way of a flexible cable that extends along a length of the blade member. Each cable may be a flexible cable having a plurality of connection points formed therealong to facilitate connection with each video display module of the blade member.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention may be better understood from the following non-limiting description of preferred embodiments, in which;

Fig. 1 is a front view of one embodiment of a display device in accordance with the present invention;

Fig. 2 is an enlarged view of the display device of Figure 1, showing the manner in which the individual blades of the device are assembled;

Figs. 3A - 3C show rear, front and side views of an embodiment of a blade suitable for use with the display device of the present invention;

Fig. 4 is a top view of one embodiment of a blade of Figs 3A - 3C;

Fig. 5 is a top view of another embodiment of a blade of Figs 3A - 3C;

Fig. 6 is a top view of the blade of Fig. 5 with the electronics assembled in position;

Fig. 7 is a top view of yet another embodiment of a blade structure in accordance with the present invention;

Fig. 8 is a top view of the blade structure of Figure 7 showing the video module and wiring in place;

Fig. 9 is a front view of a blade in accordance with Fig. 8 having a vide module removed to show the manner in which the wiring is installed within the blade structure; Fig. 10 is a front view of the blade according to the embodiment of Figs. 7 - 9 with some video modules removed; and

Fig. 11 shows one embodiment of a system for supplying power and data to the display device of Figure 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Preferred features of the present invention will now be described with particular reference to the accompanying drawings. However, it is to be understood that the features illustrated in and described with reference to the drawings are not to be construed as limiting on the scope of the invention.

The present invention will be described below in relation to its application as a device for use as a sightscreen in a cricket arena environment However, it will be appreciated that the present invention could equally be applied for use in a variety of different applications, such as conventional bill-board advertising applications as well as roadside signage applications; where an ability to convey static images as well as moving or changing images is desired.

Referring to Figure 1, a display device 10 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention is shown. The display device 10 comprises a frame member 12 in the form of a substantially rectangular frame, which is mounted on a base 14. The frame member 12 has a plurality of individual blades 16 mounted therebetween in a substantially vertical manner so as to define a main display surface 15. It will be appreciated whilst the embodiment as shown depicts the blades 16 mounted in a vertical orientation, the blades 16 may also be mounted in a horizontal orientation or any other type of orientation considered suitable for the requirements of the display device.

The display surface 15 of the device 10 is a substantially flat surface made up of aligned surfaces of each individual blade 16. In a preferred form, the display surface may comprise 44 blades extending in a vertical array within the frame member 12 so as to provide a display surface width of between 5 - 6 metres. However, it will be appreciated that other configurations and sizes of the display surface 15 are also envisaged. For example, to provide a 30 m² screen 56 blades may be required with the height of the blades determined as required. For roadside display usage, the device may vary in required height and width and the present invention provides sufficient design flexibility to accommodate such variations as required. As will be discussed in more detail below, each individual blade 16 of the display surface 15 is separated by a small gap to facilitate rotational movement of the individual blades, with respect to the neighbouring blade. The gap between blades 16 may be approximately 5mm to achieve this purpose. In this regard, it has been found that a gap of this size has a very minimal effect on the image quality as perceived by an observer of the display device 10.

Referring to Figures 3 A - 3C, a blade 16 according to one embodiment of the present invention is depicted in various partial views.

The blade 16 is generally in the form of an elongate triangular prism, As such, each blade 16 comprises three display surfaces 20, 21 and 22. For ease of reference, the blade 16 will be described below in an orientation whereby the display surface 20 is frontmost; however, it will be appreciated that in use either of the display surfaces 20, 21, or 22 may be positioned frontmost, depending upon the particular application of the display device 10 and the image to be conveyed.

Referring to Figure 3A, there is depicted an upper end region of a blade taken from a rear view. In this view the static display surfaces 21 and 22 are depicted, with display surface 20 located frontmost and substantially concealed from view. Each pf the static display surfaces 21 and 22 are in the form of a substantially planar surface which is able to receive a pattern or surface coating depicting a display pattern, For the embodiment where the display device 10 is to be used for a sightscreen in a cricket arena, static surface 21 may be applied with a white surface coating and static surface 22 may be applied with a black surface coating. Hence, by arranging the individual blades in Figure 1 such that the static surface 21 of each blade is displayed frontmost, the display surface 15 of the display device 10 will provide a substantially white surface, to assist a batter in identifying a red ball against the white background, as is common in day or test cricket matches. Similarly, by arranging the individual blades in Figure 1 such that the static surface 22 of each blade is displayed frontmost, the display surface 15 will provide a substantially black surface, to assist a batter in identifying a white ball against such a black background, as is common in night cricket matches.

The remaining surface 20 of the triangular prism blade 16 is provided with a video matrix that extends along the length thereof to provide moving or constantly changing images thereon. The manner in which this is achieved will be described below.

It will be appreciated that, due to the nature of the shape of each blade 16, by simply rotating the blades 16 through arcs of 120° degrees the specific display surface 20, 21 or 22 can be selected depending upon the requirements of use.

As is shown in figures 3A - 3C, each blade 16 is mounted between a pair of end plates 17 at the lower and upper end thereof, A pivot pin 18 extends from the end plates 17 to facilitate pivotal movement of the blades 16 about a central axis thereof, in a manner which will be discussed in more detail below. It will be appreciated that the end plates 17 and the pivot pin 18 may be integrally formed or may be separately formed and attached to the body of each blade 16 for use.

In order to form the display device 10 of Figure 1, the plurality of blades 16 are mounted within the frame member 12 with, in the embodiment as shown, the video matrix surface 20 displayed frontmost. This is depicted more clearly in Figure 2. At the upper region, the pivot pins 18 are mounted within the frame member 12 by receiving the pins 18 within a mounting mechanism 19. The mounting mechanism 19 is shaped to receive the pins 18 therein, such that the pins 18 are free to rotate with rotation of the blades 16. In an embodiment the mounting mechanism 19 may be spring loaded such that the blades 16 are biased in a downward direction to retain the blade fixed at the bottom pivot point.

It is also envisaged that the blades may be each biased into a neutral position, by a separate biasing means (not shown), which may be a spring mechanism or any other mechanism capable of individually moving the blades into a neutral position. The neutral position may be a position where the video 20 is displayed frontmost, or alternatively, a position where any of the static display surfaces 21, 22 are displayed frontmost. In this embodiment, the biasing mechanism may be configured such that in the event of a break in power supply to the device 10, the blades 16 are biased to move into a default position, which may display an image on either face 20, 21 or 22.

A drive mechanism 25 is mounted in the frame member 12 and is typically housed within base 14 to provide the driving motion to move the blades in a controlled rotational manner from the lower end thereof. To achieve this, a motor (not shown) is provided within the frame member 12 to apply rotational motion to shaft 26, The motor may be located anywhere along the shaft 26 and in larger devices 10 two or more motors may be provided along the shaft to apply rotation thereto. The lower pivot pin 18 of each blade is mounted within the frame 12 so as to engage with a cam member or gear wheel 27. A corresponding cam member or gear wheel 28 is mounted on the shaft 26 to engage the cam member or gear wheel 27 of each blade 16, such that as the shaft 26 rotates, the cam member or gear wheel 28 meshes with the cam member or gear wheel 27 of blade 16 to rotate the blades 16 in unison through a 120° arc. Further rotation of the shaft 26 by the motor (not shown) will continue to rotate the blades 16 through a further 120° arc. The motor is preferably bi-directional such that the blades can be rotated in both a clockwise and a counter clockwise manner to be positioned in the desired configuration. Such an arrangement ensures that all the blades move in unison such that the faces 20, 2 land 22 of each blade can be aligned as desired. To avoid any over-rotation of the blades 16 and potential undesirable tangling or twisting of cables extending therein, one or more sensors (not shown) may be provided on the shaft to ensure that the motor is operated within desired limits to avoid over-rotation of the blades 16.

One arrangement showing the manner in which each blade 16 is constructed is shown in Figure 4. In this embodiment, each blade 16 comprises a body 30 in the form of a triangular prism. The body 30 may be formed from an extruded metal such as aluminium, which defines each of the three display surfaces 20, 21, 22, although other materials are also envisaged, As previously discussed, display surface 21 is a static display surface that may be provided with a white surface coating and display surface 22 is also a static display surface that may be provided with a black surface coating. The body 30 has a substantially hollow interior 31 that provides a central recess extending through the length of the blade 16. The coating of the surfaces 21, 22 may be achieved by applying an adhesive layer thereon that is configured to correspond with the shape of the surface 21, 22, or may be achieved by achieved by powdercoating the surfaces black or white, as desired.

The video matrix surface 20 of the body 30 is configured to removably receive a plurality of display modules 32. Each blade 16 may have around 23 display modules fitted along its surface, extending a length of approximately 6 metres. Each display module 32 generally comprises a main body 33 which includes control circuitry and power supply and signal cable interfaces mounted on a PCB or the like, and a display assembly 34 that is in electrical communication with the main body 33 and which functions to display an image thereon. The display assembly 34 is typically an LED tile assembly that has video display capabilities.

As is shown in Figure 4, each display module 32 is fitted to the surface 20 of the body 30 by way of lugs 35 that project from a rear of the main body 33 of the display module and engage with the surface of the surface 20, in the manner as shown. In such an arrangement, the display module 32 may be readily removed and replaced if damaged or not working. An alternative embodiment of a blade 16 structure is shown in Figure 5. In this embodiment, the body 30 is also constructed in the form of a triangular prism however the display surfaces 21, 22 have extended sides 30a which extend beyond the video matrix display surface 20 in the manner as shown. This extension functions to extend the display surfaces 21 and 22 and provides enhanced protection and support to the display modules 32 mounted to the video matrix display surface 20.

The display modules 32 of the embodiment of Figure 5 are attached to the body 30 of the blades by way of fasteners 36, such as screws and the like. The fasteners 36 extend through a recess formed in the main body 33 and display assembly 34 of the display modules 32 to engage with a recess in the body 30 of the blades 16, to provide a secure means for mounting the display modules 32 in position. It will be appreciated that the display modules 32 may be simply demounted and replaced by unscrewing the fasteners 36 as desired,

Referring to Figure 6, there is depicted a display module 32 assembled to the blade arrangement of Figure 5. As is shown, the display assembly 34 is in the form of an LED PCB having 16mm pitch LED matrix screen capable of providing full colour video images. The display assembly 34 is intensity controlled such that it is operable across a large variety of light conditions, ranging from darkness to full sunlight, to provide an optimal viewing experience. In this regard, the LED matrix screen is able to operate with a Luminance from around 300 Nits to around 6000 Nits of light output. The display assembly 34 is mounted on a power supply and signal cable interface mounted within the main body 33 which receives control signal and power and controls the display assembly accordingly. Each display module 32 is identical in configuration to provide ease of replacement when desired and the display modules 32 interconnect to facilitate power and data transfer along the length of the display modules.

Fig. 7 depicts yet another alternative embodiment of a blade structure 16 in accordance with the present invention. In this embodiment, the blade 16 comprises a main elongate body 50 having a general triangular prism structure defined by three sides 51, 52 and 53.

Side 51 is substantially planar and offers a surface upon which a static pattern or image may be placed. In the application of the present invention for use as a sightscreen in a cricket environment, the side 51 may be provided with a black surface coating. Side 53 is a partly planar surface that is configured to receive a removable plate member 57, in the manner as shown. The removable plate member 57 is configured to be slidingly received or snap fitted onto the side 53 and the surface of the plate member 57 may have a static image applied thereto. In the application of the present invention for use as a cricket sightscreen, the surface of the plate member 57 may be white.

The remaining side 52 is in the form of an open, substantially concave surface into which is received and mounted the display modules and electronics for supporting the video display. In this regard, to facilitate mounting of the tiles or modules 32, a mounting plate 58 is mounted within the open side 52 by a sliding or snap fit engagement to provide a surface upon which the tiles or modules 32 are secured, as will be described in more detail below. When the mounting plate 58 is mounted to the side 52, an open space 59 is formed behind the mounting plate 58 and between the surface of the side 52, as shown. This open space or channel 59 provides a space for receiving the cables and the like for delivering power to the tiles or modules of the video system when mounted to the mounting plate 38 as will be described below.

As is shown in Figure 7, the configuration of the blade structure 16 provides a main central recess 54 located substantially behind the planar surface 51. This large central recess 54 provides a path for air to flow through the blade structure 16 so as to reduce the build-up of heat therein. Where the present invention is to be used as a sightscreen for cricket applications, the surface 51, being typically coated with a black covering, will absorb heat and as such, the provision of the recess 54 behind surface 51 provides a path for the heat to travel so as to be vented away from the electronics of the system,

Similarly, the structure of the blade 16 as shown in Fig. 7 provides a pair of venting paths 55, 56 located behind the plate member 57 to provide a means for dissipating any build-up of heat within the structure of the blade as a result of solar contact with the surface 57.

Referring to Figs. 8 and 9, there is shown the display module 32 assembled with respect to the blade structure 16 of Fig. 7. As is shown, the display module 32 is mounted within the open structure of the side 52, such that it is secured in position onto the mounting plate 58 by way of screws 60 that are received within corresponding holes 61 formed in the mounting plate 58.

A power cable 62 extends vertically within the space 59 behind the mounting plate 58. The power cable 62 is typically in the form of a flexible cable that has a plurality of socket members 63 positioned therealong, as shown. The socket members 63 are positioned at regular intervals along the length of the cable 62 to receive a plug member 64 provided with the display module 32. In this regard, when the display module 64 is attached to the blade 16, the plug member 64 is able to engage with the socket member 63 to provide power to the display module 32. To accommodate such a connection, the mounting plate 58 has an open recess 58a formed therein, as is shown more clearly in Fig. 9.

To facilitate the transfer of data between the modules 32 located on each blade 16, each module 32 has a data connector 65 extending therefrom, as is shown in Fig. 9. The data connector 65 comprises a flexible ribbon cable having a plug 66 at an end thereof which is configured to be received within a corresponding socket (not shown) provided on the immediately vertical adjacent module 32. To accommodate such a connection between adjacent modules along the blade another recess 58b is formed in the mounting plate 58 as shown.

Figure 10 depicts a blade in accordance with the structure described above in relation to Figure 7 - 9. As is seen, the power cable 62 extends centrally within the blade 16 and has a plurality of sockets located in the recesses 38a of the mounting plate 38 to facilitate a power connection to each module 32.

As alluded to above, in order to provide power to each of the display modules 32 located along the video surface 20 of each blade, due to the space constraints and general safety issues, it is not possible to run conventional power lines through each of the blades 16 from the AC mains power supply. For instance, in an embodiment where there are twenty-three display modules 32 located in series along a 6 metre length of the surface 20 of the blade, to supply external mains AC power would require DC power provided at the bottom of the device with extensive wiring provided over the 6 metre distance of the blade, This would result in an arrangement whereby multiple DC power cable runs would need to be accommodated to extend within the blades with inter-staged distribution required along the blade length. As well as requiring a large mass of cables within a highly confined space, this would also run the risk of a significant voltage drop over the 6 meter distance and increase heat build-up within the blades. As a result, due to safety requirements and to ensure a reliable operation of each of the display modules 32, such an AC mains power supply arrangement is not viable.

The manner in which the individual blades of the display device 10 are controlled to provide video capabilities is described below in relation to Figure 11.

As is shown, the device 10 receives power by way of an inverter 40 that is fed from a three phase mains AC supply, In one specific embodiment that is in no way limiting, the inverter 40 is in the form of a single 20KVA, 400 Hz three phase static inverter that will provide output at 208VAC at three phase. A number of polyphase transformers are provided to transform the three phase 208 VAC to poly-phase (6). Thus the supply is 6 phases with three phase 120 degrees apart and a further three phases which are 30 degrees rotated from each of the originating three phases. This output will then be delivered by way of cables 41 to six individual distribution units 42. In the embodiment as shown, each output phase from the inverter 40 is individually circuit breaker protected to the distribution units 42.

Each distribution unit 42 is connected to a discrete number of blades 16; typically 8 blades are associated with each distribution unit 42. The AC supply to the display modules 32 is nominally 34V RMS (48 VAC Peak to Peak max), which is a single feed multi drop supply. Each distribution unit 42 is located in the base 14 of the frame member 12 of the device 10 and are directly connected to each blade 16. As each display module of a blade 16 is each interconnected, the distribution unit directs the power by way of a cable into the base of each blade 16 where the power is delivered continuously without break to the top of the blade 16 by way of cable 62. As previously discussed, the power cable 62 is preferably in the form of a flexible cable that runs behind the display modules 32 such that when the display modules are fitted to the blade they connect directly with the power cable 62 by way of a plug and socket connection.

Each display module 32 has provision to perform a 6-phase full wave rectification of the incoming poly-phase VAC power signal to provide extremely low ripple DC power directly from the rectifier thereby requiring only a small filter capacitor. Further to this, by utilising AC power as a supply over the run distances negates any corrosion or hot joint issues that can occur over time with conventional DC power supply, especially where devices must operate in a highly variable heat and humidity environment, as can be the case when the device 10 is used as a sigh screen for a cricket application. As such, AC power supply, by its own natural alternating current behaviour is self wetting and not prone to electrolysis and subsequent erosion.

It will be appreciated that the device is configured to operate at a continuous 100% duty cycle for 24 hours/day,

Referring to Figure 11, data is applied to each of the display modules to control the image provided by the video matrix in the following manner. A remote control device 44 provides a video information signal to the device 10 by way of an optic fibre or wireless transmission. The remote control device 44 may be in the form of a control room or broadcast facility provided in the sporting arena where the device may be operating. The signal received from the remote control device is then received by a controller 45 located at the device 10, such as a computer device or similar controller. The controller 45 contains LED tile addressing software and module addressing data so as to process the data and send control signals to the appropriate blade 16 and specific display module 32 positioned along the blade 16. The incoming addressing and signal data is provided to the bottommost display module 32 of a blade 16 which is then passed upwardly to the next adjacent display module 32 and along the blade 16 as previously described, The data is processed by the electronics supplied in each display module to control the LEDs accordingly to display the moving image.

It will be appreciated that the display device 10 of the present invention provides a simple and effective means for displaying static information and images as well as improved adaptability to provide moving video images when desired. By providing a TriVision display system whereby one face of the blades is dedicated to providing video imagery, advertising or emergency information can be clearly displayed by the device, as well as more static advertising as desired. When the device is used as a sightscreen for a cricket application, the sightscreen can be used to provide either a black or white background to assist the batter in detecting the ball as it is released by a bowler, and also provided for the sightscreen to deliver video messages and images when not in use or between overs in a match. Such a device has particular commercial applications in sporting arenas worldwide.

One particular application of the present invention where significant benefits can be obtained is for emergency signage. As will become apparent below, the display device of the present application can be readily employed over highways and roadsides. In such an instance, the device may be configured to display traffic update information or general information by way of a video message and in the event of power loss to the device, through a natural disaster such as a bushfire, tsunami or the like, a back-up power source may be supplied with the device to move the blades into a passive mode where a fixed emergency control message is displayed.

It will also be appreciated that due to the manner in which the blades of the display device have been constructed to receive the individual display modules of video matrix display, should one or more individual modules become damaged, the blade can be readily removed and replaced, without the need to decommission the entire device. Each module can also be readily detached and replaced from the blade in a simple and convenient manner, providing significant cost advantages in repair and replacement of devices and parts.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that many modifications and variations may be made to the methods of the invention described herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Throughout the specification and claims the word "comprise" and its derivatives are intended to have an inclusive rather than exclusive meaning unless the contrary is expressly stated or the context requires otherwise. That is, the word "comprise" and its derivatives will be taken to indicate the inclusion of not only the listed components, steps or features that it directly references, but also other components, steps or features not specifically listed, unless the contrary is expressly stated or the context requires otherwise,

Orientational terms used in the specification and claims such as vertical, horizontal, top, bottom, upper and lower are to be interpreted as relational and are based on the premise that the component, item, article, apparatus, device or instrument will usually be considered in a particular orientation, typically with the display device uppermost.

Claims

The claims defining the invention are as follows:

1. A display device comprising; a body configured to define a display region, within which an image is viewed; a plurality of blade members mounted within the body such that the blade members combine to traverse the display region, each blade member being configured to have at least two display surfaces for displaying an image therefrom and each blade member is rotatably mounted to the body so as rotate about a central axis thereof; a drive mechanism configured to be in driving engagement with each of the blade members so as to impart rotational motion to the blade members; and a controller for controlling the drive mechanism to move the blade members such that each blade member is orientated within the display region with one of the display surfaces visable; wherein, the image that is viewed within the display region comprises the combined display surfaces of the blade members.

2. A display device according to claim 1, wherein the at least two display surfaces of each blade member are configured such that one display surface displays an electronically generated image and the at least one other display surface displays a static image.

3. A display device according to claim 2, wherein each blade member is in the form of an elongate substantially triangular prism having three display surfaces, with one of the display surfaces displaying an electronically generated image and each of the other two display surfaces displaying a static image.

4. A display device according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the display surface for displaying the electronically generated image comprises a plurality of electronic display modules mounted thereon so as to extend substantially the length of the blade member.

5. A display device according to claim 4, wherein each blade member has a power supply extending centrally therein for supplying power to the electronic display module mounted thereto.

6. A display device according to claim 5, wherein the power supply is in the form of a flexible cable that extends centrally within each blade member for delivering an AC power supply to each electronic display module.

7. A display device according to claim 6, wherein a plurality of sockets are provided along the length of the flexible cable for receiving a plug associated with each electronic display module to facilitate powered connection between the electronic display module and the power supply.

8. A display device according to any one of claims 4 - 7, wherein each electronic display module receives data from the controller to facilitate the image displayed thereon.

9. A display device according to claim 8, wherein the controller contains software for generating control signals addressing each of the individual electronic display modules to control individual LEDs present on each electronic display module to form the electronic image.

10. A display device according to claim 9, wherein the controller transmits the control signals to each individual blade member and the control signals are transmitted between electronic display modules mounted along the blade member by way of a series data connection.

11. A display device according to claim 10, wherein the series data connection is formed by a cable extending between adjacent electronic display modules.

12, A display device according to claim 1, wherein the body comprises a frame member that extends about the display region.

13. A display device according to claim 12, wherein the plurality of blade members are mounted within the frame member so as to extend either horizontally or vertically to traverse the display region.

14. A display device according to claim 13, wherein the blade members are mounted at opposing ends to the frame member so as to freely rotate about their central axis.

15. A display device according to claim 14, wherein the drive mechanism comprises a shaft member configured to engage each of the blade members and a motor for imparting rotational motion to the shaft member.

16. A display device according to claim 15, wherein the motor is controlled by the controller such that when the motor imparts rotational motion to the shaft member in a first direction, the blade members rotate together to maintain alignment of corresponding display surfaces of the blade members.

17. A display device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the device is controllable to display both a static and an electronically generated image in the display region.

18. A blade member for a display device comprising: an elongate body having a substantially triangular cross section that provides three display surfaces; a plurality of electronic display modules mountable to one of the display surfaces so as to extend substantially the length of the elongate body to display an electronically generated image on the display surface; a power supply configured to extend within the elongate body to provide power to the plurality of electronic display modules when mounted on the display surface; and a pair of end mounts provided at each end of the body, each end mount configured to be supported within a structure to enable rotational movement of the elongate body about a central axis thereof, at least one of the end mounts being configured to engage with a drive mechanism to drive said rotational movement of the elongate body.