Abstract
Disclosed are embodiments of display modules, assemblies of display modules, and systems of display modules. Display modules have a plurality of light emitting elements arranged in a predetermined pattern and providing a highly uniform visual effect. Alignment and complementary alignment features enable the alignment of adjacent display modules and the creation of large displays from a plurality of aligned display modules. Features to grip and retain a support frame are provided. Modules and systems have features that permit installation and removal from the front side of the display. A system of modular support frames works cooperatively with the display modules, adapting to different mounting environments, and thereby providing large modular displays with desirable properties.
Claims
1. A method of creating a curved light emitting visual display upon a curved viewing plane, the method comprising the steps of: a) coupling a display module to a display mounting surface on a support frame, the display module comprising a plurality of light emitting elements coupled to a substrate, and the plurality of light emitting elements being disposed on a display plane in a predetermined pattern, and the plurality of light emitting elements collectively creating a visual display on the display plane; b) coupling a tension member to the support frame at two different locations, the tension member adapted to apply a tension force between the two different locations to affect a curvature of the display plane; and c) coupling a releasable frame retention mechanism to the substrate, the releasable frame retention mechanism having a retaining position and a non-retaining position.
2. The method of claim 1 further comprising the retaining position of the releasable frame retention mechanism effective for coupling the display module to the support frame, the non-retaining position of the releasable frame retention mechanism allowing the display plane to tilt with respect to the curved viewing plane.
3. The method of claim 1 further comprising the releasable frame retention mechanism operable from the display plane side of the display module for actuation between the retaining position and the non-retaining position.
4. The method of claim 1 further comprising the releasable frame retention mechanism operable from the support frame side of the display module for actuation between the retaining position and the non-retaining position.
5. The method of claim 1 further comprising the applied tension force between the two different locations affecting a convex curvature of the display plane.
6. The method of claim 1 further comprising the applied tension force between the two different locations affecting a concave curvature of the display plane.
7. The method of claim 1 further characterized in that the display module is a first display module having a first display plane, the method further comprising the steps of: a) coupling a second display module to the display mounting surface on the support frame, the second display module comprising a second plurality of light emitting elements coupled to a second substrate; and the second plurality of light emitting elements being disposed on a second display plane in a predetermined pattern, the second plurality of light emitting elements collectively creating a visual display on the second display plane, and b) disposing the second display module adjacent to the first display module, configuring the first and second display planes so that the predetermined pattern of the first display module is substantially aligned with the predetermined pattern of the second display module thereby creating no perceivable visual aberration between the predetermined pattern of the first display module and the predetermined pattern of the second display module.
8. The method of claim 7 further comprising the steps of: a) coupling an alignment feature to the substrate of the first display module and the alignment feature being disposed in a predetermined relationship to the first display plane, b) coupling a complementary alignment feature to the second substrate of the second display module and the complementary alignment feature being disposed in a predetermined relationship to the second display plane, and c) engaging the alignment feature with the complementary alignment feature, to align the predetermined pattern of the first display plane with the predetermined pattern of the second display plane.
9. A method of creating a curved light emitting visual display upon a curved viewing plane, the method comprising the steps of: a) coupling a display module to a display mounting surface on a support frame, the display module comprising a plurality of light emitting elements coupled to a substrate; and the plurality of light emitting elements being disposed on a display plane in a predetermined pattern, the plurality of light emitting elements collectively creating a visual display on the display plane, b) coupling a compression member to the support frame and the display plane, the compression member adapted to apply a compression force to the display plane to affect a curvature of the display plane, and d) coupling a releasable frame retention mechanism to the substrate, the releasable frame retention mechanism having a retaining position and a non-retaining position.
10. The method of claim 9 further comprising the applied compression force affecting a concave curvature of the display plane.
11. The method of claim 9 further comprising the applied compression force affecting a convex curvature of the display plane.
12. The method of claim 9 further characterized in that the display module is a first display module having a first display plane, the method further comprising the steps of: a) coupling a second display module to the display mounting surface on the support frame, the second display module comprising a second plurality of light emitting elements coupled to a second substrate; and the second plurality of light emitting elements being disposed on a second display plane in a predetermined pattern, the second plurality of light emitting elements collectively creating a visual display on the second display plane, and b) disposing the second display module adjacent to the first display module, configuring the first and second display planes so that the predetermined pattern of the first display module is substantially aligned with the predetermined pattern of the second display module thereby creating no perceivable visual aberration between the predetermined pattern of the first display module and the predetermined pattern of the second display module.
13. The method of claim 12 further comprising the steps of: a) coupling an alignment feature to the substrate of the first display module and the alignment feature being disposed in a predetermined relationship to the first display plane; b) coupling a complementary alignment feature to the second substrate of the second display module and the complementary alignment feature being disposed in a predetermined relationship to the second display plane; and c) engaging the alignment feature with the complementary alignment feature, to align the predetermined pattern of the first display plane with the predetermined pattern of the second display plane.
14. A method of creating a curved light emitting visual display upon a curved viewing plane, the method comprising the steps of: a) coupling a display module to a display mounting surface on a support frame, the display module comprising a plurality of light emitting elements coupled to a substrate; and the plurality of light emitting elements being disposed on a display plane in a predetermined pattern, the plurality of light emitting elements collectively creating a visual display on the display plane, b) coupling a tension member to the support frame and the display plane, the tension member adapted to apply a tension force to the display plane to affect a curvature of the display plane; and c) coupling a releasable frame retention mechanism to the substrate, the releasable frame retention mechanism having a retaining position and a non-retaining position.
15. The method of claim 14 further comprising the retaining position of the releasable frame retention mechanism effective for coupling the display module to the support frame, the non-retaining position of the releasable frame retention mechanism allowing the display plane to tilt with respect to the curved viewing plane.
16. The method of claim 14 further comprising the releasable frame retention mechanism operable from the display plane side of the display module for actuation between the retaining position and the non-retaining position.
17. The method of claim 14 further comprising the releasable frame retention mechanism operable from the support frame side of the display module for actuation between the retaining position and the non-retaining position.
18. The method of claim 14 further comprising the applied tension force affecting a convex curvature of the display plane.
19. The method of claim 14 further comprising the applied tension force affecting a concave curvature of the display plane.
20. The method of claim 14 further characterized in that the display module is a first display module having a first display plane, the method further comprising the steps of: a) coupling a second display module to the display mounting surface on the support frame, the second display module comprising a second plurality of light emitting elements coupled to a second substrate; and the second plurality of light emitting elements being disposed on a second display plane in a predetermined pattern, the second plurality of light emitting elements collectively creating a visual display on the second display plane, and b) disposing the second display module adjacent to the first display module, configuring the first and second display planes so that the predetermined pattern of the first display module is substantially aligned with the predetermined pattern of the second display module thereby creating no perceivable visual aberration between the predetermined pattern of the first display module and the predetermined pattern of the second display module.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0108] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
[0109] FIG. 1A shows a square consistent with a regular four sided polygon.
[0110] FIG. 1B shows a square tiling of a two dimensional plane
[0111] FIG. 1C shows coordinate axis defined on square tiling. Enlarged view 1D is indicated
[0112] FIG. 1D shows an enlarged view of the indicated region of FIG. 1C showing uniform row and column pitch distance.
[0113] FIG. 1E shows a plan view of a display module having a plurality of light emitting elements coordinate axis defined on square tiling.
[0114] FIG. 1F shows the display module of FIG. 1E overlaid with the predetermined pattern of square tiling and coordinate axes.
[0115] FIG. 1G shows a plan view of two display modules aligned along their y-axis.
[0116] FIG. 1H shows a plan view of two display modules aligned along their x-axis.
[0117] FIG. 2A shows a perspective view of a display module. Cross sections 2B and 2C are indicated.
[0118] FIG. 2B shows a cross sectional schematic view of the display module of FIG. 2A.
[0119] FIG. 2C shows another cross sectional schematic view of the display module of FIG. 2A.
[0120] FIG. 2D shows a cross sectional schematic view of another embodiment of a display module having two pairs of complementary alignment features.
[0121] FIG. 3A-FIG. 3C shows a cross sectional schematic views pointing out features facilitating installation, removal, retention and non-retention of a display module to/from a support frame. Process steps for installation and removal from the front side of a display are shown.
[0122] FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B show a cross sectional schematic view of an embodiment according to the present disclosure in which a display module may be become operatively engaged with the alignment features of more than one adjacent display module as the display module is installed on a support frame. Process steps for installation and removal from the front side of the display are shown.
[0123] FIG. 5 shows a schematic cross sectional view of a plurality of display modules in which more than one pair of complementary alignment features are simultaneously operatively engaged.
[0124] FIG. 6A shows a perspective view of a system of display modules installed on a support frame. One display module is shown in the midst of being either installed or removed.
[0125] FIG. 6B shows a perspective view of a system of display modules installed on a support frame. Three installed modules are shown collectively creating a viewing plane.
[0126] FIG. 7A shows another embodiment of a modular display system according to the present disclosure having more than one display module coupled to a semi-rigid front mask. Cross section 7B is indicated.
[0127] FIG. 7B shows a cross section of the display assembly of FIG. 7A in a flat state.
[0128] FIG. 7C shows the display assembly of FIG. 7B in a flexed state.
[0129] FIG. 7D shows a perspective view of a modular display system comprising a plurality of display assemblies attached to a support frame.
[0130] FIG. 8A shows a perspective view of the front of a support frame according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0131] FIG. 8B shows a perspective view of the back of the support frame of FIG. 8A.
[0132] FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of three support frames assembled together according to the features described for FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B.
[0133] FIG. 10A shows a top down view of a support frame according to another embodiment of the disclosure in which a tension member coupled to the support frame creates a convex display mounting face.
[0134] FIG. 10B shows a top down view of a support frame according to another embodiment of the disclosure in which a tension member coupled to the support frame creates a concave display mounting face.
[0135] FIG. 10C shows a top down view of more than one support frame joined together along their mating faces in which a tension member coupled to the support frames creates a convex display mounting face spanning more than one support frame.
[0136] FIG. 10D shows a top down view of more than one support frame joined together along their mating faces in which a tension member coupled to the support frames creates a concave display mounting face spanning more than one support frame.
[0137] FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of the back of a support frame according to an embodiment of the present disclosure in which an equipment mount is attached to a support rib.
[0138] FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of the back of a support frame according to an embodiment of the present disclosure in which a plurality of frame mounting features and vertical frame mounting features are shown.
LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS APPEARING IN THE FIGURES
[0139] 8coordinate system showing x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis [0140] 8Xx-axis [0141] 8Yy-axis [0142] 8Zz-axis [0143] 10square tile, which is a regular 4 sided polygon [0144] 10a, 10b, etc. first square, second square, etc. [0145] 11pitch distance [0146] 12square tiling of the plane [0147] 12vrepresentative vertex of the square tiling [0148] 12srepresentative side of the square tiling [0149] 14predetermined pattern corresponding to a tiling of the plane [0150] 30tension member [0151] 32compression member [0152] 40semi-rigid support frame [0153] 41support direction [0154] 42support frame aperture [0155] 42a, 42b, etc. first, second, etc. support frame aperture [0156] 44thin planar support body [0157] 46display mounting face [0158] 46a, 46b, 46c, etc. first, second, third, etc. display mounting face [0159] 46eedge of display mounting face [0160] 46e1, 46e2, 46e3, 46e4first, second, third, fourth edge of display mounting face [0161] 48support rib [0162] 50mating face [0163] 50a, 50b, 50c, 50dfirst, second, third, fourth mating face [0164] 52alignment feature of a mating face [0165] 54complementary alignment feature of a mating face [0166] 58equipment mount [0167] 60frame mounting feature [0168] 62vertical frame mounting feature [0169] 70display module [0170] 70a, 70b, 70c etc. first, second, third, etc. display module [0171] 71light emitting element [0172] 71a, 71b, etc. first, second, etc. light emitting element [0173] 72plurality of light emitting elements [0174] 74display plane [0175] 75display plane disposed at a first angle with respect to the viewing plane [0176] 76display module substrate [0177] 78display assembly [0178] 78a, 78b, 78c, etc. first, second, third, etc. display assembly [0179] 80viewing plane [0180] 84semi rigid front mask [0181] 90frame grip [0182] 91frame grip service position [0183] 93frame grip installed position [0184] 100alignment feature [0185] 100a, 100b, 100c, etc. first, second, third, etc. alignment feature [0186] 110complementary alignment feature [0187] 110a, 110b, 110c, etc. first, second, third, etc. complementary alignment feature [0188] 120frame retention means [0189] 121frame retention means in a non-retaining position [0190] 123frame retention means in a retaining position
DESCRIPTION
[0191] Tesselation of a planar surface is the tiling of the plane using one or more geometric shapes, called tiles, creating no gaps and no overlaps. A periodic tiling has a repeated geometric pattern. A regular tiling is a tiling in which all tiles are regular polygons having the same size and shape. Square, triangular, and hexagonal tilings are each an example of a regular, periodic tiling that can achieve a tesselation of a planar surface without gaps or overlaps. Tilings are of special interest in the construction of modular displays because their properties enable the construction of large displays with desirable properties. Assembling a plurality of smaller display modules in which each display module is configured to have a size, shape, and orientation corresponding to a predetermined tiling may produce a large display having no gaps and no overlaps between adjacent display modules.
[0192] Within a single display module, a plurality of light emitting elements may be arranged in a predetermined pattern derived from an appropriately configured tiling. A planar tiling of regular polygons consists of edges and vertexes. The set of vertexes of a regular polygon tiling can be seen to create a pattern with a high degree of regularity. A highly uniform visual effect may be produced by placing a light emitting element at or about each of the vertexes of a regular polygon tiling.
[0193] In creating a uniform visual effect, it is useful to consider a property called pitch distance, which is the distance between any light emitting element and its closest adjacent light emitting elements. It can be seen that a highly uniform visual effect is produced by maintaining a highly uniform pitch throughout a single display module and across a plurality of adjacent display modules. Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure use light emitting elements located at or about the vertexes of a regular polygon tiling. A regular square tiling is one such preferred tiling, producing a uniform visual effect by providing uniform spacing between both rows and columns of light emitting elements. The spacing between adjacent rows and between adjacent columns of a regular square tiling may be referred to as the pitch of that pattern. In such a square tiling, it can be seen that any light emitting element will have at least two closest adjacent neighboring elements that are spaced apart from each other by a distance close to or substantially equal to the pitch distance.
[0194] In addition to uniform pitch within a single display module, the spacing between display modules can be controlled so that uniform pitch of light emitting elements is maintained across a plurality of assembled display modules. A preferred embodiment is to provide a display module with a perimeter region, of a predetermined width, that contains no light emitting elements. The preferred width of the perimeter region is less than or about equal to one half of the pitch distance, when measured inward and along the edges of the regular polygon tiling defining the location of the plurality of the light emitting elements. When two display modules are assembled adjacent to one another, each module may provide a perimeter region width of about one half of the pitch, which cumulatively creates a pattern of uniform pitch spanning both modules. A plurality of display modules may thereby be assembled to create uniform pitch spanning the plurality of display modules.
[0195] A single display module may comprise a plurality of light emitting elements coupled to a substrate, and arranged in a predetermined pattern corresponding to the vertexes of a regular polygon tiling. The display module has a perimeter. A plurality of display modules may be assembled such that a portion of the perimeter of each display module abuts a portion of the perimeter of at least one other display module, each module positioned to maintain uniform pitch spacing across the plurality of display modules.
[0196] A display system according to the present disclosure may be constructed by assembling a plurality of display modules onto a support frame, the support frame having been previously.
[0197] Turning now to FIG. 1A, shown is a regular four sided polygon, also called a square 10, consistent with the square tiling 12 of the two dimensional plane shown in FIG. 1B. A coordinate system 8 is indicated so as to make discussion of geometry features of the present disclosure more clear. Square tiling 12 is comprised of a plurality of square tiles, of which first square 10a and second squarelOb are typical, arranged so that no gaps and no overlaps are produced. When arranged into the predetermined pattern shown in FIG. 1B, the square tiling 12 can be seen to create a plurality of vertex 12v and a plurality of side 12s, in which every vertex 12v is separated a distance of about 12s from each of its closest neighboring vertexes.
[0198] FIG. 1C shows predetermined pattern corresponding to a tiling of the plane 14 according to a square tiling. Overlaid onto the predetermined pattern corresponding to a tiling of the plane 14 are x-axis 8X and y-axis 8Y, showing that a coordinate system can be overlaid onto the predetermined pattern to facilitate clear disclosure of the location and alignment of other features to be described. The enlarged section, denoted FIG. 1D, shows that the square tiliing of the plane gives rise to a highly uniform spacing of vertexes, which can be characterized as pitch distance 11. Pitch distance 11 corresponding to the predetermined pattern 14 gives rise to uniform spacing between rows and columns when that predetermined pattern is based upon a square tiling. It can be seen that row spacing and column spacing are both about equal to the pitch distance 11.
[0199] Turning now to FIG. 1E, shown is a display module 70 having a plurality of light emitting elements 72, of which first light emitting element 71a and second light emitting element 71b are individual members of the plurality. Plurality of light emitting elements 72 is shown arranged according to a predetermined pattern so as to create a highly uniform visual effect upon display plane 74. FIG. 1F shows how predetermined pattern 14 according to a square tiling of the plane may be used to position individual light emitting elements 71a, 71b, and 71c according to the location of the vertexes of said predetermined pattern 14. Superimposed upon the plurality of light emitting elements are x-axis 8X and y-axis 8Y. The display module 70 of FIG. 1F comprises a plurality of light emitting elements, each of which may be a single light emitting device or multiple light emitting devices. A preferred light emitting element combines red, blue, and green light emitting devices within one light emitting element so as to provide full color spectrum display. Monochrome and other combinations of devices may be used still within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. The display modules of FIG. 1E and FIG. 1F each have a region adjacent to their perimeter that is free from light emitting elements. This enables close spacing of adjacent modules as will be seen now.
[0200] FIG. 1G shows a first display module 70a adjacent to a second display module 70b and disposed so that their display planes 74a and 74b abut and their respective y-axes 8Ya and 8Yb are substantially aligned, thereby creating a highly uniform visual effect that spans the combined display modules. A pitch distance can be defined between adjacent light emitting elements between adjacent display modules that is substantially equal to the pitch distance between adjacent light emitting elements within a single display module.
[0201] FIG. 1H shows a first display module 70a adjacent to a second display module 70b and disposed so that their respective display planes 74a and 74b abut and their respective x-axes 8Xa and 8Xb are substantially aligned, thereby creating a highly uniform visual effect that spans the combined display modules. A pitch distance can be defined between adjacent light emitting elements between adjacent display modules that is substantially equal to the pitch distance between adjacent light emitting elements within a single display module. When abutted and aligned in the foregoing manner, two adjacent modules may be combined such that their combined plurality of light emitting elements are disposed upon a single predetermined pattern 14 defining a regular tiling of the plane.
[0202] FIG. 1G and FIG. 1H make it clear that a large display may be constructed from display modules designed according to the teaching of FIG. 1A-FIG. 1H. Such a large display will tile the two dimensional plane without gaps and without overlaps and produce a highly uniform visual effect. Any number of display modules may be combined in both x and y directions to make a large display that is substantially free from visual aberrations.
[0203] FIG. 2A shows a perspective view of a display module 70 having a plurality of light emitting elements 72 coupled to a substrate 76 and disposed in a predetermined pattern to create a display plane 74. Also coupled to substrate 76 are alignment feature 100 and complementary alignment feature 110, which are both designed to operatively engage features on adjacent display modules so as to cooperatively establish and maintain alignment and registration with adjacent display modules, thereby creating a highly uniform visual effect. Alignment feature 100 is designed so that it may operatively engage a complementary alignment feature on an adjacent display module and thereby constrain the relative position of the two adjacent display modules. Likewise, Complementary alignment feature 110 is designed so that it may operatively engage an alignment feature on an adjacent display module and thereby constrain the relative position of the two adjacent display modules. An x-axis may be defined to lie in the display plane. A y-axis, non-parallel to said x-axis, may also be defined to lie in the display plane. Engagement of an alignment feature with a complementary alignment feature on an adjacent module may create: substantial alignment of the x-axes of the display planes of the adjacent modules, substantial alignment of the y-axes of the display planes of the adjacent modules, substantial alignment of both x-axes and y-axes of the two modules, substantial co-planarity of the display planes of the adjacent modules, substantial alignment of either x-axes or y-axes along with the substantial co-planarity of the display planes of the adjacent modules. Substantial alignment in the foregoing description means alignment sufficient to avoid perceivable visual aberration between adjacent display modules. Substantial co-planarity in the foregoing description means alignment sufficient to avoid perceivable visual aberration between adjacent display modules.
[0204] Shown now in FIG. 2B is a cross sectional view as indicated from FIG. 2A. The cross sectional view shows additional features of display module 70 not visible in FIG. 2A due to its orientation. Display module 70 additionally comprises: a frame grip 90 coupled to substrate 76 and adapted to engage with a support frame, not shown in this figure; and a frame retention means 120, shown here in a non-retaining position 121. Frame retention means is operative to move between said non-retaining position 121 and a retaining position for securing the display module to a support frame, further characterized in that frame retention means 120 may be actuated by a person from the display plane side of the display module. In preferred embodiments the frame retention means may be actuated by means of a turning motion, from the front of the display plane, and thereby progressively engage a clamping force between the support frame and display module 70. The clamping force may be provided by a spring member that securely, but not rigidly, attaches the display module to the support frame. Also shown in FIG. 2B are alignment feature 100 and complementary alignment feature 110 which are operative for engaging alignment features of adjacent display modules. In preferred embodiments adjacent display modules may be identical to display module 70.
[0205] Shown in FIG. 2C is a cross sectional view as indicated from FIG. 2A. In this figure the complementary mechanical design of alignment feature 100 and complementary alignment feature 110 can be seen. Also shown is a circular cross section of frame retention means 120, which facilitates actuation of frame retention means 120 by means of rotation. The single pair of alignment features is collectively sufficient to constrain the position and alignment of two adjacent display modules of compatible or identical design.
[0206] Shown in FIG. 2D shows a cross sectional view similar to FIG. 2C, but of another embodiment of the present disclosure in which display module 70 comprises two pairs of alignment features: first alignment feature 100a and first complementary alignment feature 110a; and second alignment feature 100b and second complementary alignment feature 110b. In this embodiment 100a and 110a have a complementary mechanical design, and 100b and 110b have a complementary mechanical design. The two pairs of alignment features are collectively sufficient to constrain the position and alignment of four adjacent display modules of compatible or identical design.
[0207] Turning now to FIG. 3A, FIG. 3B, and FIG. 3C, shown are cross sectional schematic views pointing out various beneficial aspects of display module 70, and in particular, how a first display module may be engaged with a support frame 40 and how it may engage with an adjacent second display module 70b, wherein both actions may be completed by a person from the front, or display side, of the display module. FIG. 3A shows first display module 70a comprising: alignment feature 100 and complementary alignment feature 110, frame grip, rigidly coupled to the display module and disposed in a service position 91, and frame retention means in a non-retaining position 121. Second display module is shown with frame grip in an installed position 93 and frame retention means in a retaining position 123, and having a display plane 74, alignment feature 100, and complementary alignment feature 110. A display module may be characterized as being installed onto the support frame when its frame grip is disposed in an installed position and its frame retention means is disposed in a retaining position. A plurality of display modules that have been installed onto a support frame collectively create a viewing plane in which the plurality of display modules produce a uniform tiling of a portion of the viewing plane having no noticeable gaps or overlaps between adjacent display modules. Second display module 70b is shown in an installed position in FIG. 3A, FIG. 3B and FIG. 3C.
[0208] Continuing with FIG. 3A, the frame grip of first display module 70a may be caused to engage with support frame 40 when display plane 75 is disposed at a first angle with respect to adjacent display module that has already been installed onto the support frame. First display module 70a may then be moved so that first display module 70a is disposed according to FIG. 3B, in which the frame grip has transitioned from the service position of FIG. 3A to frame grip installed position 93. While first display module 70a transitions to frame grip installed position 93, alignment feature 100 of first display module is operatively engaged with complementary alignment feature 110 of second display module 70b. When an alignment feature and a complementary alignment feature are operatively engaged, the position and/or orientation of the display plane of first display module 70a may be constrained to the position and/or alignment of the display plane of second display module 70b. Operative engagement of alignment and complementary alignment features may constrain adjacent display planes of adjacent display modules in a variety of ways with respect to both position and orientation. The x-axis, y-axis, z-axis, and the angle of the display plane with respect to each of x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis, may individually or in combination be constrained by one or more pairs of alignment and complementary alignment features. In preferred embodiments, operative engagement of alignment feature of a display module with complementary alignment feature of adjacent display module operates to create a pixel gap between adjacent light emitting elements between adjacent display modules that is substantially equal to the pixel gap between light emitting elements within a single display module.
[0209] FIG. 3C shows the apparatus of FIG. 3B in which frame retention means of first display module 70a has been actuated into a frame retaining position 123. Preferred embodiments of frame retention means provide a durable and removeable clamping action to engage support frame 40. It can be seen that the steps shown in FIG. 3a, FIG. 3B, and FIG. 3C can performed in sequence to install a display module, and that the sequence can be performed in a reversed order to remove a display module. The frame retention means may be operated by a person from the display plane side of the display module, thereby facilitating both installation and removal from the front of the display module. Preferred embodiments of frame retention means provide a spring member creating a compliant clamping force, effective for retaining the display module despite environmental fluctuations of temperature and humidity. While frame retention means is in retaining position 123, alignment feature 100 and complementary alignment feature are urged to stay operatively engaged. The frame retention means on each display module may provide a secure but compliant attachment to the support frame 40, thereby allowing the pairs of complementary alignment features to determine the orientation and position of the plurality of display planes with respect to each other while, at the same time, the plurality of display modules are free enough with respect to support frame 40 to accommodate such environmental factors as curvature of the support frame, non-uniformity of the support frame, and mechanical and dimensional changes to the support frame caused by vibration, aging, and thermal effects.
[0210] Shown in FIG. 4A, is a cross sectional schematic view is an embodiment according to the present disclosure in which a display module may be become operatively engaged with the alignment features of more than one adjacent display module as the display module is installed on support frame 40. A first display module 70a, a second display module 70b and a third display module 70c are shown, each comprising alignment feature 100, complementary alignment feature 110, a plurality of light emitting elements arranged in a predetermined pattern on a display plane, frame grip, and frame retention means. FIG. 4A shows the frame grip of first display module 70a in a service position 91 and frame retention means in a non-retaining position 121. In the position shown in FIG. 4A, the display plane 75 is shown having an angle with respect to the viewing plane defined collectively by the display planes of second display module 70b and third display module 70c while the frame grip of first display module 70a is engaged with the support frame and may support the weight of the display module against gravity, thereby making installation and removal easier. FIG. 4B shows the apparatus of FIG. 4A in which first display module 70a may be moved so that its frame grip is disposed in a frame grip installed position 93, and thereafter frame retention means may be operated into frame retention means retaining position 123.
[0211] While first display module 70a transitions to frame grip installed position 93, alignment feature 100 of first display module 70a is operatively engaged with complementary alignment feature 110 of second display module 70b, and, complementary alignment feature 110 of first display module 70a is operatively engaged with alignment feature 110 of third display module 70c. As described with reference to prior figures, when an alignment feature and a complementary alignment feature are operatively engaged, the position and/or orientation of the display plane of first display module 70a may be constrained to the position and/or alignment of both the display plane of second display module 70b and the display plane of third display module. FIG. 4B makes clear that complementary alignment features on multiple adjacent display modules may be operatively engaged when first display module 70a is tilted into its installed position. The apparatus shown in FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B can be installed into a previously installed plurality of display modules and can also be removed from a plurality of installed display modules. Installation and removal of any display module according to the present disclosure can be accomplished by actions performed solely in front of the display plane.
[0212] The frame retention means on each display module may provide a secure but compliant attachment to the support frame 40, thereby allowing the pairs of complementary alignment features to determine the orientation and position of the plurality of display planes with respect to each other while, at the same time, the plurality of display modules are free enough with respect to support frame 40 to accommodate such environmental factors as curvature of the support frame, non-uniformity of the support frame, and mechanical and dimensional changes to the support frame caused by vibration, aging, and thermal effects.
[0213] Turning to FIG. 5, shown is a schematic cross sectional view of another embodiment according to the present disclosure in which each of first display module 70a, second display module 70b, and third display module 70c has a first and second alignment feature 100a and 100b, respectively, and each display module has a first and second complementary alignment feature 110a and 110b, respectively. According to FIG. 5, first alignment feature 100a can be operatively engaged with first complementary alignment feature 110a of an adjacent display module, while second alignment feature 100b can be operatively engaged with second complementary alignment feature 110b. When alignment features and a complementary alignment features are operatively engaged, the position and/or orientation of the display plane of first display module 70a may be constrained to the position and/or alignment of the display plane of one or more adjacent display modules. Different alignment and complementary alignment features may be simultaneously operatively engaged thereby urging the alignment of the display planes of every adjacent display module.
[0214] FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B shows a perspective view of a system of display modules, installed on a support frame 40, consistent with the display modules described previously, however, the drawing is simplified for clarity. First display module 70a of FIG. 6A is shown with display plane 75 tilted at angle with respect to the collectively established viewing plane of the previously installed display modules, second display module 70b and third display module 10c. When first display module 70a is moved to an installed position, alignment and complementary alignment features are moved to become operatively engaged for establishing and maintaining alignment between the display planes of adjacent modules. FIG. 5 and FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B show, in combination, that multiple pairs of complementary alignment features may be made to operatively engage as the display plane of a display module is moved from being at an angle with respect to the viewing plane to an angle that is coincident with the viewing plane. The display planes of first, second, and third display modules, 70a, 70b, and 70c, respectively, are urged to remain aligned and substantially co-planar by means of the action of multiple alignment features.
[0215] FIG. 7A presents a modular display system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure in which a display assembly 78 for use with an identical adjacent display assembly, comprises: a first display module 70a having a display plane 74; a second display module 70b having a display plane 74, identical to the first display module and disposed with respect to the first display module such that the display plane of second display module 70b abuts the display plane of first display module 70a; and a semi-rigid front mask 84 coupled to both first display module 70a and second display module 70b, front mask 84 being substantially co-planar with and covering the display planes of both said first display module and said second display module. In preferred embodiments, front mask 84 may be a thin material having a plurality of perforations, further characterized in that each light emitting element may be visible through a corresponding perforation and front mask 84 comprises a material that is substantially opaque to visible light, thereby greatly reducing the optical interference of any light emitting element with its neighbors. In other embodiments, front mask 84 may be a solid material, at least partially transparent to the light emitted by each light emitting element. Other configurations of front mask are possible in which light emitting elements project light through the front mask and produce an image upon the viewing plane.
[0216] FIG. 7B shows a cross sectional view of the apparatus of FIG. 7A. FIG. 7C shows a cross sectional view of apparatus of FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B in which the semi-rigid front mask has been flexed out of the flat plane to a non-flat shape. The doted lines of FIG. 7C indicate a previously flat front mask that has been bent or curved or flexed into a non-flat shape. By means of the semi-rigid front mask 84, which permits flexing of the front mask in the region proximate to the abutment of the display planes 74 of first display module 70a and second display module 70b, a plurality of display assemblies may be assembled to create a large display that curves or bends or flexes responsive to the undulations that may be present in the support frame 40 on which the display is mounted.
[0217] Display modules used in the embodiments of FIG. 7A-FIG. 7D may include any or all of the features previously described. As such, display assembly 78 may include one or more frame grips, one or more frame retention means, one or more alignment features, and one or more complementary alignment features. FIG. 7D shows a perspective view of a modular display system comprising a plurality of display assemblies, 78a, 78b, and 78c, attached to support frame 40.
[0218] Turning now to FIG. 8A, FIG. 8B, and FIG. 9, shown are additional features of the present disclosure that address the needs of mounting, assembling, and servicing of large visual displays that are created by tiling one or more display modules onto an underlying modular support frame structure. FIG. 8A shows a perspective view of the front of a support frame 40 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Support frame 40 is shown comprising: thin planar support body 44 having one or more support frame apertures 42a and 42b, and having a display mounting face 46 that is suitable for mounting display modules of the present disclosure. Display mounting face 46 is shown disposed within the perimeter defined by first edge 46e1, second edge 46e2, third edge 46e3, and fourth edge 46e4. Support frame 40 is configured to support the weight of tiled display modules along the direction defined by support direction 41 and is furthermore able to curve in directions transverse to the support direction. FIG. 8B shows a plurality of support ribs 48, each coupled to planar support body 44, opposite to display mounting face 46, and configured to be substantially aligned with support direction 41.
[0219] FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B jointly show features of the support frame that facilitate the assembly and alignment of adjacent support frames. A first mating face 50a is shown disposed contiguous to at least a portion of first edge 46e1 of said display mounting face 46, first mating face 50a being substantially perpendicular to display mounting face 46 where the first mating face and the display mounting face meet. First mating face 50a has one or more alignment features 52 disposed in a predetermined relationship to display mounting face 46. Support frame 40 also has a second mating face 50b shown disposed contiguous to at least a portion of second edge 46e2 of display mounting face 46, second mating face 50b being substantially perpendicular to display mounting face 46 where second mating face 50b and display mounting face meet. Second mating face 50b has one or more complementary alignment features 54 disposed in a predetermined relationship to said one or more alignment features 52. Alignment features 52 and complementary alignment features 54 are designed so that operative engagement of an alignment feature on a frame support with a complementary alignment feature of an adjacent frame support operate together to make the display mounting face of the frame support substantially co-planar with the display mounting face of the adjacent frame support in the region where the mating faces of the two support frames meet.
[0220] In preferred embodiments, a mating face may be a surface portion of a support rib located at an edge of the display mounting face. In other preferred embodiments, alignment/complementary alignment features may be a pin/hole configuration, a tab/slot configuration, or a ball/socket configuration. After adjacent support frames are operatively engaged by means of one or more pairs of alignment/complementary alignment features, the adjacent support frames may be durably coupled together by means including: screws, clips, clamps, nuts and bolts, adhesives, etc. In other embodiments the alignment/complementary alignment features may be designed such that they provide both alignment and positive, durable coupling between adjacent support frames.
[0221] With continuing reference to FIG. 8A, FIG. 8B, and FIG. 9, additional mating faces may be attached to support frame 40. Third edge 46e3 and fourth edge 46e4 may be defined extending transverse to the support direction 41. A third mating face 50c may be disposed along a portion of third edge 46e3 and having a alignment feature 52. A fourth mating face 50d may be disposed along a portion of fourth edge 46e4 and having a complementary alignment feature 54. Alignment feature 52 of third mating face 50c is designed to operatively engage the complementary alignment feature on the fourth mating face of an adjacent support frame, and thereby urge the display mounting faces of the adjacent support frames to be substantially coplanar in the region where the mating faces meet.
[0222] In preferred embodiments, third mating face 50c and fourth mating face 50d are disposed at opposite ends of a support rib, and are each coupled to a small portion of their respective display mounting face edges. When alignment/complementary alignment features are operatively engaged, co-planarity of display mounting faces of adjacent support frames may be ensured.
[0223] The system of three support frames in FIG. 9 show the assembly of first support frame 40a, second support frame 40b, and third support frame 40c, in which the mating faces of adjacent support frames are aligned according to the operative engagement of alignment features with their respective complementary alignment features, thereby achieving substantial co-planarity between the adjacent edges of first display mounting face 46a and second display mounting face 46b, and between adjacent edges of first display mounting face 46a and third display mounting face 46c. A plurality of support frames may thus be assembled to provide a large support frame system with desirable properties.
[0224] The disclosed support frames and display modules may be used in a number of installation environments. One typical installation environment for a large display system is a rigid architectural structure like a wall that provides a mounting surface onto which the system of support frames may be mounted. Accordingly, in some embodiments of the present disclosure, a system of modular support frames may be assembled thereby providing a substructure for attaching display modules so as to provide a substantially flat viewing plane.
[0225] In addition to installation environments that result in a substantially flat viewing plane, other installation environments may require adapting the curvature of the viewing plane to convex, concave, and/or multiple curvature containing shapes that may each have their own appeal and challenges. Accordingly, embodiments of the present disclosure describe a system of modular support frames that may be assembled to provide a substructure for attaching display modules that presents a non-flat viewing plane having convex, concave, or multiple convex and concave curvatures. One or more display modules may be individually installed, serviced, and removed from the system of support frames without substantially disturbing adjacent display modules.
[0226] Turning now to FIG. 10A-FIG. 10D, shown are top down views of various embodiments providing curvature to one or more display mounting faces. FIG. 10A shows a top down view of a support frame 40 according to another embodiment of the disclosure in which a tension member 30 coupled to planar support body 44 creates a convex display mounting face 46. First mating face 50a and second mating face 50b are shown at opposite edges of display mounting face 46. When planar support body 44 is not subject to tension member 30, display mounting face 46 may take on a flat configuration. In preferred embodiments, tension forces are coupled to the support frame at the location of two different support ribs, thereby causing the display mounting face to gracefully curve in a direction transverse to the support ribs.
[0227] FIG. 10B shows a top down view of a support frame 40 according to another embodiment of the disclosure in which a compression member 32 coupled to planar support body 44 creates a concave display mounting face 46. First mating face 50a and second mating face 50b are shown at opposite edges of display mounting face 46. When planar support body 44 is not subject to compression member 32, display mounting face 46 may take on a flat configuration. In preferred embodiments, compression forces are coupled to the support frame at the location of two different support ribs, thereby causing the display mounting face to gracefully curve in a direction transverse to the support ribs.
[0228] FIG. 10C shows a top down view of a plurality of support frames joined together along their mating faces in which a tension member coupled to different support frames creates a convex display mounting face spanning more than one support frame. The figure shows first mating face 50a of first support frame 40a and second mating face 50b of second support frame 40b joined in a manner consistent with foregoing descriptions in which alignment features and complementary alignment features on the two support frames are operatively engaged thereby providing substantial co-planarity between the adjacent edges of first display mounting face 46a and second display mounting face 46b. Tension member 30 is coupled to first planar support body 44a and second planar support body 44b thereby creating a convexly curving compound display mounting face spanning both first display mounting face 46a and second display mounting face 46b. In preferred embodiments, tension forces are coupled to the support frame at the location of two different support ribs, thereby causing the display mounting face to gracefully curve in a direction transverse to the support ribs.
[0229] FIG. 10D shows a top down view of a plurality of support frames joined together along their mating faces in which a compression member coupled to different support frames creates a concave display mounting face spanning more than one support frame. The figure shows first mating face 50a of first support frame 40a and second mating face 50b of second support frame 40b joined in a manner consistent with foregoing descriptions in which alignment features and complementary alignment features on the two support frames are operatively engaged thereby providing substantial co-planarity between the adjacent edges of first display mounting face 46a and second display mounting face 46b. Compression member 32 is coupled to first planar support body 44a and second planar support body 44b thereby creating a concavely curving compound display mounting face spanning both first display mounting face 46a and second display mounting face 46b. In preferred embodiments, compression forces are coupled to the support frame at the location of two different support ribs, thereby causing the display mounting face to gracefully curve in a direction transverse to the support ribs.
[0230] In addition to environments in which a curved, but fixed shape of viewing plane is desired, other environments may call for adjustable curvatures. Accordingly, other embodiments of the present disclosure provide adjustable tension members and adjustable compression members which may be adjusted to change the curvature of the viewing plane. Furthermore, an adjustable member that operates in compression over a portion of its adjustable range and operates in tension over a different portion of its adjustable range may provide viewing plane curvature ranging from convex to concave.
[0231] FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of the back of a support frame 40 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure in which an equipment mount 58 is attached to a support rib 48. In order to deploy a large modular display system, a variety of support equipment may be needed beyond the display modules and support frames already described. In particular, a plurality of power supplies and a plurality of display control units may be used to power display modules and to supply image data to the plurality of display modules comprising the viewing plane. It may be convenient to co-locate with a support frame a power supply that can satisfy the power requirements of all of the display modules installed onto that support frame.
Likewise, it may be convenient to co-locate with a support frame one or more display control units that can satisfy the data driving requirements of all of the display modules installed onto that support frame. This modular approach can be achieved by means of one or more equipment mounts, each attached to a support rib of a support frame. Attaching equipment mount 58 directly to support rib 48 allows the weight of any mounted equipment to be transmitted into the support structure along the direction of the support rib thereby preventing the attached weight from substantially affecting the ability of support frame 40 to curve smoothly in directions transverse to the support rib. More than one mount may be used to mount the desired amount of equipment.
[0232] Turning now to FIG. 12, shown is a perspective view of the back of a support frame 40 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure in which a plurality of frame mounting features 60 are coupled to the back side of planar support body 44, opposite display mounting face 46. Support frame 40 may be attached to an underlying structure by means of one or more frame mounting features 60. In preferred embodiments, each frame mounting feature will be closely coupled to one or more support ribs 48, effectively transmitting the weight of the display through the support ribs into the underlying structure with out substantially affecting the ability of the support frame to curve gracefully in directions transverse to the support ribs. Furthermore, different configurations of frame mounting features may be appropriate for different mounting environments. FIG. 12 shows two vertical frame mounting features 62 that are effective for hanging or otherwise suspending support frame 40 from the top of the support frame. In some embodiments more than one type of frame mounting feature may be used. In preferred embodiments, the constituent material and thickness of planar support body 44 are chosen such that curvatures and loads required may be carried whilst the planar support body operates well within its elastic deformation regime and well away from its yield point. In the elastic deformation regime, the support frame will curve smoothly in response to loads applied at the locations of frame mounting features and will not bend or otherwise plastically deform.
[0233] By means of the previously described systems and methods, a fully modular system can be deployed in which each support frame carries its own power supply and display control units. Features of the disclosure describe embodiments that are suitable for a variety of environments including: hanging, structural wall mounting, and even free standing. A complete support frame system may then be constructed from a plurality of support frames by coupling adjacent support frames together in a desired configuration. Operatively engaged alignment and complementary alignment features of adjacent support frames ensure that the plurality of support frames collectively provides a display mounting face upon which display modules may be mounted. Display modules may then be tiled onto the support frame system, according to previously described methods, making use of one or more support frame apertures 42 for convenient power cable routing and data cable routing. Operatively engaged alignment and complementary alignment features of adjacent display modules ensure that the plurality of tiled display modules collectively provide a viewing plane without visual aberrations.
[0234] Although the present invention has been described in considerable detail with reference to certain preferred versions thereof, other versions are possible. It may be desirable to combine features shown in various embodiments into a single embodiment. A different number and configuration of features may be used to construct embodiments of the apparatus and systems that are entirely within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Therefor, the spirit and scope of the appended claims should not be limited to the description of the preferred versions contained herein.
[0235] Any element in a claim that does not explicitly state means for performing a specified function, or step for performing a specific function, is not to be interpreted as a means or step clause as specified in 35 U.S.C. Section 112. In particular, the use of step of in the claims herein is not intended to invoke the provisions of 35 U.S.C. Section 112.
