THREE-DIMENSIONAL IMAGE FORMATION SYSTEM
20200366879 ยท 2020-11-19
Inventors
Cpc classification
H04N13/302
ELECTRICITY
G06T17/10
PHYSICS
B01D2247/107
PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
H04N13/388
ELECTRICITY
H04N13/189
ELECTRICITY
International classification
H04N13/189
ELECTRICITY
G06T17/10
PHYSICS
Abstract
A three-dimensional image formation system 1000, 1500 comprises a display 1080, 1580 configured to provide or display an image, and a scattering medium producing device 1085, 1585 configured to produce a light scattering medium. The display is configured to be viewed through a said scattering medium to create a three-dimensional image. The system is configured such that a thickness of the scattering medium through which the display is viewable is variable with respect to a viewing angle.
Claims
1. A three-dimensional image formation system comprising: a display configured to provide or display an image; and a scattering medium producing device configured to produce a light scattering medium; wherein the display is configured to be viewed through a said scattering medium to create a three-dimensional image; and wherein the system is configured such that a thickness of the scattering medium through which the display is viewable is variable with respect to a viewing angle.
2. The three-dimensional image formation system of claim 1, wherein the scattering medium producing device is configured to produce a mist of fluid droplets.
3. The three-dimensional image formation system of claim 1, further comprising one or more fluid outlets configured to produce the mist of fluid droplets.
4. The three-dimensional image formation system of claim 3, wherein the one or more fluid outlets are configured to vary a fluid droplet size of the spray of fluid droplets.
5. The three-dimensional image formation system of claim 3, further comprising a hollow structure comprising an air inlet and an air outlet.
6. The three-dimensional image formation system of claim 5, further comprising a filter at or near the air outlet, configured to remove fluid droplets from air passing through the air outlet.
7. The three-dimensional image formation system of claim 5, wherein the hollow structure is a hollow columnar or tubular structure.
8. The three-dimensional image formation system of claim 7, wherein an end of the hollow columnar structure is open; and i) the air inlet or outlet is formed by or provided at the open end; and/or ii) the air inlet or outlet is located proximate the open end.
9. The three-dimensional image formation system of claim 6, further comprising an aperture in the hollow structure, wherein the air outlet or inlet is formed or provided by the aperture.
10. The three-dimensional image formation system of claim 5, further comprising a fan configured to assist air flow from the air inlet to the air outlet.
11. The three-dimensional image formation system of claim 5, further comprising a secondary fluid outlet configured to flow across an internal surface of the hollow structure in a direction substantially corresponding to the direction of air flow from the air inlet to the air outlet.
12. The three-dimensional image formation system of claim 5, wherein a portion of the hollow structure forms a fluid reservoir, and optionally or preferably wherein the air outlet is located above the level of a fluid in the fluid reservoir.
13. The three-dimensional image formation system of claim 12, further comprising a fluid pump configured to pump clean or treated fluid from the fluid reservoir to each of the one or more fluid outlets and/or the secondary fluid outlet.
14. The three-dimensional image formation system of claim 3, wherein one or more of the fluid outlets comprises an ultrasonic atomiser; and, optionally or preferably, further comprises a variable nozzle sprayer.
15. The three-dimensional image formation system of claim 3, wherein one or more of the fluid outlets is located in a fluid bath and configured to produce a spray of fluid droplets using fluid contained in the fluid bath; and, optionally or preferably, wherein the system is configured to maintain the level of the fluid in the fluid bath at a constant level.
16. The three-dimensional image formation system of claim 15, further comprising a support, wherein the one or more fluid outlets and/or the secondary fluid outlet and/or the fluid baths are provided on the support.
17. The three-dimensional image formation system of claim 11, further comprising a fluid cleaning device located in the fluid reservoir.
18. The three-dimensional image formation system of claim 17, wherein the fluid cleaning device is one of a UV light cleaning device, a mechanical filtering device, or a chemical-based cleaning device
19. The three-dimensional image formation system of claim 11, further comprising a polluted fluid chamber configured to store fluid which has been output from the one or more fluid outlets and/or the secondary fluid outlet separately from fluid in the fluid reservoir.
20. The three-dimensional image formation system of claim 5, wherein the air inlet is configured to assist air entering the structure and/or has rounded or curved edges.
21. The three-dimensional image formation system of claim 1, wherein the display is a display screen and, optionally or preferably, is one of a flat display screen and a curved display screen.
22. The three-dimensional image formation system of claim 1, wherein the scattering medium producing device is located behind the display relative to a viewpoint of a viewer.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0057] The invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
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[0074] Like reference numbers and designations in the various drawings indicate like elements. For example, feature 105 in
[0075] Features which are described in the context of separate aspects and embodiments of the invention may be used together and/or be interchangeable wherever possible. Similarly, where features are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, these may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination. In particular, the air pollution treatment system and the three-dimensional image formation system may be separate aspects or may be part of the same aspect. Features described with reference to one aspect may additionally/instead be utilised in one or more other aspects.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0076] Aspects and embodiments of the invention provide a novel way to display images e.g. advertising that can be used, for example, to monetise reduction of air pollution.
[0077] Air pollution is the single largest cause of death in the world, with 5.5 million deaths attributable to air pollution worldwide annually. In London, pollution levels are twice the legal limit, which has been attributed to 10,000 premature deaths in the city each year. Nationwide in the UK, health problems caused by air pollution cost the National Health System (NHS) 20 billion annually.
[0078] Typically, attempts to deal with pollution have focussed on tackling pollution at source. However, the sources of pollution are varied and diffuse, meaning that tackling any single one of these sources has a very limited impact and involves thousands of stakeholders. Current systems put in place to deal with individual pollutants at source are inherently specific to the pollutant and the conditions in which the pollutant is produced.
[0079] It is perhaps unsurprising therefore that pollution levels are set to double by 2050. One contributor to this is that electric cars produce more of the most harmful pollutants than petrol vehicles, as particulate emissions from brakes and tires of electric cars are higher than those for petrol vehicles due to their heavier weight (relative to petrol vehicles).
[0080] The size of particulate matter is inversely proportional to the hazard it poses to humans. There has been a large amount of research into this phenomenon. For example, PM10 particulates (2.5 to 10 m in diameter) are caught in the throat, whereas smaller PM2.5 particulates (2.5 m or smaller in diameter) are caught in the lungs, and can cause more harm. However, PM1.0 particulates (1 m or smaller in diameter) and smaller, including nanoparticulates and ultrafine particles (UFPs) are absorbed directly into the bloodstream. The increased danger of these smaller particles is only recently starting to become acknowledged.
[0081]
[0082] Attaching the pollutant particles to larger fluid droplets before passing the air flow through the filter 130 of the air outlet 125 enables a much higher throughput of air when compared to traditional HVAC system. A traditional HVAC system which simply filters air drawn in through an air inlet requires a series of dense filters in order to remove pollutant or contaminant particles. By combining the pollutant particles with fluid droplets in the hollow structure 100 before passing the air flow through the air outlet 125, the density of the filter 130 used in the air outlet 125 can be much less dense in comparison to a traditional HVAC system whilst still effectively and efficiently removing pollutant particles. The lower density of the filter 130 enables an increased throughput of air (and requires less energy to achieve an increased throughput of air) when compared to a traditional HVAC system.
[0083] The pollutant particle removal efficiency of traditional wet scrubbing systems is dependent on the size of the fluid droplets in comparison to the pollutant particles the system is intended to capture and remove. Traditional wet scrubbing systems deal with pollutant particles at source, and so are optimised to deal with only a very specific type and size of pollutant particle.
[0084] The one or more fluid outlets 115 being configured to vary the fluid droplet size of the spray of fluid droplets therefore also provides further advantages when compared to traditional HVAC or industrial wet scrubbing systems. In being configured to vary the fluid droplet size produced by the one or more fluid outlets 115, the system 100 is able to optimise the size of the fluid droplets in order to efficiently capture and remove different sizes of pollutant particles from the air as and when the size of the pollutant particles passing through the system 100 changes. In this way, the system 100 is able to respond to changing conditions in local air quality in real-time.
[0085] In the embodiment shown, the hollow structure 100 is a hollow columnar structure. In alternative embodiments, the hollow structure may be any hollow shape with an air inlet 120 and an air outlet 125.
[0086] In the embodiment shown, the hollow columnar structure has a substantially circular cross-sectional profile. In alternative embodiments, the hollow columnar structure may have a cross-sectional profile of any shape, for example triangular, square, pentagonal etc. In the embodiment shown, an end of the hollow columnar structure is open and configured to act as the air inlet 120. In alternative embodiments, the air inlet 120 may be located at any position on the hollow structure 105.
[0087] In the embodiment shown, one or more fluid outlets 115 are each mounted on and connected directly to the inner surface of the walls of the hollow structure 105. The fluid outlets 115 may be connected by a fastener (e.g. a bolt or a screw) to the inner surface of the walls of the hollow structure 105. In alternative embodiments, the fluid outlets 115 may be connected to the inner surface by any suitable attachment mechanism, for example permanent or removable adhesives, or by engagement of corresponding features located on the inner surface and the fluid outlets 115 respectively (e.g. a tongue and groove connection).
[0088] In the embodiment shown, the one or more fluid outlets 115 are spaced apart evenly in a radial direction around the circumference of the hollow structure 105, and also spaced apart evenly in an axial direction along the axial length of the hollow structure 105. In alternative embodiments, the one or more fluid outlets 115 may be spaced in clusters or groups at specific locations within the hollow structure 105, depending on the requirements of the system 100. In alternative embodiments, the one or more fluid outlets 115 may be mounted on a separate support. The support may be connected to the walls of the hollow structure 105, or may be freestanding within the volume enclosed by the hollow structure 105.
[0089] In a particular embodiment, the hollow structure is a double walled structure, defining a space between the walls in which the spray of fluid droplets is produced, e.g. as shown in
[0090] In the embodiment shown, a portion of the hollow structure 105 is configured to act as the fluid reservoir 110. In alternative embodiments, the fluid reservoir 110 may be separate from the hollow structure 105, and may be located internally of or externally to the hollow structure 105. In alternative embodiments, the system 100 may not comprise a fluid reservoir. Additionally or instead it may comprise a mains fluid inlet and a mains fluid outlet connected to a mains water supply.
[0091] In the embodiment shown, an aperture in the hollow structure 105 is configured to act as the air outlet 125. The aperture is located above the level of the fluid in the fluid reservoir 110. In alternative embodiments, the fluid reservoir 110 may be separate from the hollow structure 105, or the system 100 may not comprise a fluid reservoir and may instead comprise a mains fluid inlet and a mains fluid outlet connected to a mains water supply. In either of these alternative embodiments, the air outlet 125 may be located at any position on the hollow structure 105.
[0092] The collection efficiency (efficiency of removing pollutant particles from the air) is increased by increasing the distance between the air inlet 120 and the air outlet 125. Therefore, in the embodiment shown, air is drawn in through the air inlet 120, located at the top of the hollow structure 105, and is expelled through the air outlet 125, located near the base of the hollow structure 105 in order to utilise as much of the length of the hollow structure 105 as possible. However, in alternative embodiments, the air inlet 120 and the air outlet 125 may have their locations reversed and/or not be located as far apart as possible, and may be located nearer to each other depending on design constraints.
[0093] In the embodiment shown, the filter 130 is a demisting mesh. In alternative embodiments, a condenser arrangement may be used instead of, or in addition to, a demisting mesh.
[0094] In the embodiment shown, the system 100 is a stand-alone static system requiring only a power source in order to function. The system 100 stands directly on the ground. In alternative embodiments, the system may be mobile, and/or may be raised up and supported by a static or mobile platform. The mobile platform may have wheels in order to facilitate movement of the system. In alternative embodiments, the system may be modular. In a modular system, multiple systems 100 may be stackable on top of one another, or connectable in series, or configured to connect side by side, in order to create new forms of the system 100. These new forms may provide increased benefits with regard to collection efficiency of the system 100.
[0095] In alternative embodiments, the system 100 may be quickly implemented into urban environments by making use of disused telephone boxes, lamp posts, electric vehicle charging points etc. The system 100 can be located on any urban furniture which can supply the system 100 with a power source.
[0096] The system 100 can be located in pollution hotspots where the concentration of pollutant particles is high, for example in areas of slow moving traffic. The system 100 can also be located inside buildings to tackle indoor air pollution. For example, the system 100 can be located in shop windows, hotel lobbies, shopping centres, hospitals, schools, within both existing and new city infrastructures and architecture (e.g. cladding, walls and bridges). The system can also be fitted to large mobile structures, vehicles and other methods of transport.
[0097] A plurality of systems can be implemented in a distributed network across an indoor or outdoor environment.
[0098] In alternative embodiments, the system may also comprise a centrifugal separator configured to separate fluid droplets from air passing through the air outlet 125. The centrifugal force acting on the fluid droplets forces the fluid droplets to separate from the air passing through centrifugal separator such that fluid droplets containing pollutant particles can be removed from the air flow. The separated air can then be expelled to the atmosphere.
[0099] In alternative embodiments, the system may also comprise a centrifuge. The air passing through the air inlet 120 may be passed through the centrifuge before interacting with fluid droplets within the hollow structure 105. The forces acting on the pollutant particles contained in the air passing through the centrifuge causes smaller pollutant particles to combine into larger, more easily catchable pollutant particles. This increases the efficiency of pollutant particle removal from the air flow using fluid droplets produced by the one or more fluid outlets 115.
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[0102] The motion of the fluid flow is depicted by the arrow labelled F in
[0103] In the embodiment shown, the secondary fluid outlet 340 has a halo shape, i.e. a ring shape. The ring shape of the secondary fluid outlet substantially corresponds to the internal circular cross-sectional shape of the hollow columnar structure 305 of the system 300. In alternative embodiments, the secondary fluid outlet 340 may have a shape which corresponds to the internal cross-sectional shape or profile of the hollow structure 305, e.g. a triangular, square, pentagonal etc.
[0104] In the embodiment shown, the secondary fluid outlet 340 is located adjacent to the air inlet 320 in order to maximise the entraining effect of the fluid motion in the hollow structure 305 to draw in air through the air inlet 320. The length of the hollow structure 305 and the speed of entrainment caused by the fluid flow produced by the secondary fluid outlet 340 affect the rate of interactions between the fluid droplets produced by the one or more fluid outlets 315 and the pollutant particles. The faster the fluid flow produced by the secondary fluid outlet 340, the greater the rate of interactions between the fluid droplets produced by the one or more fluid outlets 315 and the pollutant particles.
[0105] The secondary fluid outlet 340 may be mounted to the inner surface of the walls of the hollow structure by the same mechanisms as discussed with respect to the fluid outlets 115 (e.g. a bolt or a screw, temporary or permanent adhesive, or engagement of corresponding features). In embodiments comprising a double walled structure, the secondary fluid outlet may be mounted to the inner surface of the outer wall of the double walled structure, or to the outer surface of the inner wall of the double walled structure.
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[0107] In the embodiment shown, the fluid pump 445 recirculates the fluid around the system 400, wherein fluid that has been sprayed from one or more fluid outlets 415 and/or the secondary fluid outlet 440 collects in the fluid reservoir 410 to be provided once more to each of the one or more fluid outlets 415 and/or the secondary fluid outlet 440.
[0108] In alternative embodiments, the fluid from the fluid reservoir 410 may be provided to each of the one or more fluid outlets 415 and/or the secondary fluid outlet 440 by a different mechanism, e.g. the fluid from the fluid reservoir 410 may be gravity fed to each of the one or more fluid outlets 415 and/or the secondary fluid outlet 440. In such embodiments, a separate fluid tank may be provided to collect rainwater, or to collect fluid produced by a dehumidifier. Fluid collected in the separate fluid tank may then be fed to the fluid outlets 415 and/or the secondary fluid outlet 440.
[0109] In alternative embodiments, fluid output from the one or more fluid outlets 415 and/or the secondary fluid outlet 440 may not be recirculated through the system 400, but may be stored separately from the fluid in the fluid reservoir 410.
[0110] In alternative embodiments, the fluid pump 445 may be connected to a mains water supply, and may be configured to provide fluid from a mains fluid inlet (connected to the mains water supply) to the fluid outlets 415 and/or the secondary fluid outlet 440. Fluid output from the fluid outlets 415 and/or the secondary fluid outlet 440 may then be delivered to a mains fluid outlet to drain back into the mains water system.
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[0112] The ultrasonic atomisers 555 of each of the one or more fluid outlets 515 are used to produce a fine mist of fluid droplets. Ultrasonic atomisers are an energy efficient method of producing a fine mist of fluid droplets, and are frequently used in humidifiers, as well as for fog creation in theatrical performance, live music performances and art installations. An advantage of using the ultrasonic atomisers 555 is that the fine mist of fluid droplets produced by the ultrasonic atomisers 555 is dense enough to fall under gravity, rather than rise. The voltage supply to the ultrasonic atomisers 555 can also be varied in order to change the size of the fluid droplets contained in the fine mist produced by the ultrasonic atomisers 555. A variation in the power supplied to a transducer in the ultrasonic atomiser can alter both the rate at which atomisation (i.e. droplet formation) of fluid located on the atomising surface of the transducer occurs, and the droplet size produced during atomisation. Similarly, by altering the frequency of the power/voltage supplied to an atomising surface of the ultrasonic atomisers 555 (i.e. a surface of the transducer on which fluid to be atomised is located), both the rate of atomisation and the droplet size can be accurately controlled. In this way, the size of the fluid droplets produced by the ultrasonic atomisers 555 can be optimised for the collection of different sized of pollutant particle.
[0113] In alternative embodiments, an apparatus or system (not shown) configured to monitor the types of pollutant particle in the local environment (e.g. pollutant particle size, pollutant particle concentration, other pollutant particle characteristics) may be incorporated into the system 500. In other alternative embodiments, the monitoring apparatus may be located externally of and separate to the system 500, but may be in electronic or other communication with the system 500. Such embodiments allow the fluid droplet characteristics (e.g. fluid droplet size, fluid droplet number) to be controlled in real-time to adapt to local conditions as and when changes occur. This may enable an increase in collection efficiency for removing pollutant particles from the air flowing through the system 500.
[0114] In alternative embodiments, alternative means for producing a fine mist of fluid droplets may be utilised e.g. a pressurised air and fluid system. In such embodiments, varying the air pressure or the water pressure supplied to a nozzle or sprayer may produce sprays with controllably variable fluid droplet diameters. Varying a size and/or a shape of an aperture of the nozzle or sprayer may also enable the production of controllably variable fluid droplet size.
[0115] In alternative embodiments, the spray of fluid droplets produced by each of the one or more fluid outlets 515 may be generated by the use of pressurised water and fog (a technique frequently used on construction sites for dust suppression).
[0116] In alternative embodiments, the one or more fluid outlets 515 may comprise heat exchange fog machines in order to produce fluid droplets.
[0117] In alternative embodiments, the fluid droplets produced by each of the one or more fluid outlets 515 may be electrostatically charged to optimise the efficiency of pollutant particle removal. In alternative embodiments, the fluid droplets produced by each of the one or more fluid outlets 515 may contain a chemical additive to optimise the efficiency of pollutant particle removal.
[0118] In alternative embodiments, one or more variable nozzle sprayers or jets of each of the one or more fluid outlets 515 may be used to produce fluid droplets larger than those produced by the ultrasonic atomiser 555 of each of the one or more fluid outlets 515. The one or more variable nozzle sprayers or jets of each of the one or more fluid outlets 515 may be configured to produce sheets of fluid droplets of varying sizes. By producing multiple sizes of fluid droplet using the one or more fluid outlets 515 of the system 500, a range of pollutant particle sizes can be removed from the air flowing through the system 500. In such alternative embodiments, the one or more variable nozzle sprayers or jets may be connected to a separate pressurised fluid system in order to produce fluid droplets (separate from the fluid provided to the ultrasonic atomisers 555 of the fluid outlets 515. The size of the fluid droplets produced by the variable nozzle sprayers or jets may be optimised or varied by varying the fluid pressure or air pressure supplied to the variable nozzle sprayers or jets.
[0119] In the embodiment shown, each of the one or more fluid outlets 515 is located in a fluid bath 550, and configured to produce a spray of fluid droplets using fluid contained in the fluid bath 550. A fluid reservoir 510 of the system 500 provides fluid to fill the fluid baths 550 via fluid tracks 560, and the system is configured to maintain the level of the fluid baths 550 at a constant level. The ultrasonic atomisers 555 are submerged in the fluid contained the fluid baths 550, for example at a depth of 10 mm to 30 mm. Maintaining a constant level of fluid in the fluid baths 550 ensures the ultrasonic atomisers 555 are submerged at an optimum depth to produce the correct fluid droplet size for optimum efficiency of pollutant particle removal from the air flow. The level at which the fluid in the fluid baths 550 is kept constant may be varied based on the pollutant particle size present in the air flowing through the system. In alternative embodiments, the depth of the ultrasonic atomisers relative to the surface of the fluid in the fluid baths may be varied whilst the level of fluid in the fluid baths is kept constant. One or more of the fluid baths 550 may be mounted on a wall of the hollow structure, or may be mounted on a support contained within the hollow structure.
[0120] In alternative embodiments, fluid from a mains water supply may be provided to fill the fluid baths 550.
[0121] In alternative embodiments, the one or more ultrasonic atomisers and/or the one or more variable nozzle sprayers or jets may not be located in a fluid bath.
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[0123] In the embodiment shown, the fluid cleaning device is a mechanical filtering device. In alternative embodiments, the fluid cleaning device may be a UV light cleaning device, or may be a chemical-based cleaning device (e.g. utilising chlorine, similar to swimming pool cleaning chemicals).
[0124] In alternative embodiments, fluid may be provided to the system 600, through a mains fluid inlet, using a mains water supply. Once the fluid has been output from the fluid outlets 615 and/or the second fluid outlet 640, the fluid is directed to a mains fluid outlet to be drained back into the mains water system. In such an embodiment, a fluid cleaning device is not required.
[0125] In alternative embodiments, the system may not comprise a fluid cleaning device. In such alternative embodiments, a removably replaceable fluid tank may be provided. This allows fluid to be recirculated around the system until it is no longer of sufficient quality to perform pollutant particle removal effectively. At this point, the fluid tank may be removed from the system, the fluid in the fluid tank replaced, and the fluid tank replaced within the system containing fresh fluid to efficiently remove pollutant particles once more.
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[0127] In the embodiment shown, the polluted fluid chamber 770 is located within a hollow structure 705 of the system 700. In alternative embodiments, the polluted fluid chamber 770 may be located externally of the hollow structure 705 of the system 700.
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[0130] In the embodiment shown, the support 975 contains the electronic wiring and the fluid piping for delivering both power and fluid to the various components of the system 900.
[0131] In alternative embodiments, the system 900 may be fitted to existing infrastructure, such as lamp posts, signposts etc. In such embodiments, the existing infrastructure may take the place of a support to support features of the system contained within the hollow structure, with the hollow structure being formed around the existing infrastructure.
[0132]
[0133] In the embodiment shown, the display screen 1080 is an LCD screen. In alternative embodiments, the display screen may be any suitable display screen, such as an LED screen.
[0134] In the embodiment shown, the display screen 1080 and the scattering medium producing device 1085 are both contained within a hollow structure 1005. The hollow structure 1005 is a hollow columnar structure as described with respect to the aspect of the invention in
[0135] In alternative embodiments, the hollow structure may be a double walled structure, wherein the display screen 1080 is contained within the inner wall of the double walled structure, and the scattering medium producing device is contained within the outer wall of the double walled structure (i.e. between the inner and outer walls of the double walled structure). In such an alternative embodiment, the scattering medium may be contained between the inner and outer walls of the double walled structure. In alternative embodiments, the display screen and the scattering medium producing device may not be contained within a hollow structure.
[0136] In the embodiment shown, the scattering medium produced by the scattering medium producing device is contained within the hollow structure 1005 and fills the space contained within the hollow structure 1005.
[0137] In the embodiment shown, display screen 1080 is covered by an elongated semi-circular cover 1020 to separate the display screen 1080 from the scattering medium produced by the scattering medium producing device 1085. In the embodiment shown, the cover 1090 is manufactured from a transparent material, such as a transparent plastic. The display screen 1080 is waterproof. In alternative embodiments, the display screen may not be covered.
[0138] In alternative embodiments, the hollow structure may be a double walled structure. The display screen may be located within an inner wall of the double walled structure, whilst the scattering medium is contained within (and fills the space between) the inner and outer walls of the double walled structure.
[0139] In alternative embodiments, the display screen 1080 may be mounted on a support 1075 located within the hollow structure 1005. The inner wall of the double walled structure may form a housing of transparent material that may substantially surround the display screen 1080. The housing may substantially surround the display screen 1080 in all radial directions (relative to the hollow columnar structure 1005), and the housing may extend across some or all of the full height of the display screen 1080 in an axial direction (relative to the hollow columnar structure 1005). The housing may also be mounted on the support 1075. In such embodiments, the housing does not extend the full height or length of the outer wall of the hollow structure 1005. Therefore, below a lower end of the housing, the hollow structure may be considered to be a single walled structure. In such embodiments, the other components (e.g. the scattering medium producing device 1085) of the system 1000 may be located below the lower end of the housing. In this way, the other components of the system 1000 may be contained within the outer wall of the double walled structure, but not located within the inner wall of the double walled structure. Such embodiments could be considered to be a housing containing the display screen 1080, suspended within the outer walls of a hollow structure.
[0140] In the embodiment shown, the scattering medium is produced by a scattering medium producing device 1085 located behind the display screen 1005 relative to a position of a viewer. In alternative embodiments, the scattering medium may be produced at any location relative to the display screen 1080. In alternative embodiments utilising a curved display screen spanning a full 360, the scattering medium may be produced by a scattering medium producing device located within the centre of the space formed by the curved display screen. In such alternative embodiments, the curved display screen may be located within an inner wall of a double walled structure, or the curved display screen itself may form the inner wall of the double walled structure. Various components and features of the system 1000, in addition to the scattering medium producing device, may be contained within the space created by the curved display screen spanning 360. In alternative embodiments utilising a curved display screen spanning less than 360, the scattering medium may be produced by a scattering medium producing device located at the centre of the curvature of the curved display screen (i.e., the common point of the radius of curvature of the curved screen).
[0141] When a viewer views the display screen 1080, through the scattering medium produced by the scattering medium producing device, from a viewing point, the system 1000 is configured to produce a display wherein a two-dimensional image displayed by the display screen 1080 is given a three-dimensional effect. This effect is produced by the viewer viewing the two-dimensional image displayed by the display screen through different thicknesses of scattering medium at different viewing angles. A schematic of this effect is shown in
[0142] As shown in
[0143] The three-dimensional image effect is further enhanced by matching the colour of the scattering medium to the colour of the display screen 1080 backlight. In alternative embodiments, the colour of the scattering medium may be altered by embedding light sources within the scattering medium. The background colour of the display screen 1080 may then be altered to match the colour of the scattering medium.
[0144] In the embodiment shown, the display screen 1080 is a flat display screen displaying an image from only one side (towards the point P in the embodiment shown). If the three-dimensional image formation system is contained within a hollow structure, the same visual effect (i.e. changing a viewer's perception of an image from two-dimensional to three-dimensional) is achieved whether the hollow structure is single walled or double walled.
[0145]
[0146] In the embodiment shown, the curved display screen 1180 spanning 360 may be considered to form the inner wall of a double walled structure, with the hollow structure 1105 forming the outer wall of the double walled structure. As shown, the scattering medium producing device 1185 is positioned within the internal space formed by the curved display screen 1180. This embodiment reduces the need for a separate inner wall or housing in order to contain the curved display screen 1180 and/or any other components of the system 1100.
[0147] In alternative embodiments, a different visual effect may be produced by projecting an image onto a surface of a display device, and providing a scattering medium behind the display device. For example, an image could be projected onto an outer surface of a hollow structure whilst the hollow structure itself is filled with a scattering medium.
[0148] In alternative embodiments, a transparent display screen could be connected to an inner or outer surface of the hollow structure (or the inner or outer surface of the outer wall of a double walled hollow structure), while the hollow structure itself (or the space between the inner and outer walls of a double walled structure) is filled with a scattering medium.
[0149] In the embodiment shown, the scattering medium is a mist of fluid droplets.
[0150] Combining one or more features of the first aspect of the invention with one or more features of the third aspect of the invention results in a combined air pollution treatment and display system. For example, the three-dimensional image formation system could be located within a hollow structure. Providing the three-dimensional image formation system in a hollow structure could provide protection from external conditions such as wind damage (if located in an external area). The hollow structure could also help the scattering medium to retain a particular shape or structure. This could enhance the effect of the display screen being viewable through different thicknesses of scattering medium at different viewing angles.
[0151] An embodiment of such a combined system is shown in
[0152] In alternative embodiments, however, the three-dimensional image formation system does not need to be located in a hollow structure. The scattering medium producing device may be configured to produce a scattering medium confined to a particular physical space (e.g. by forming cylindrical or other shaped walls of scattering medium in front of the display screen, for example by using air flows to confine the location of the scattering medium).
[0153] In the embodiment shown, the scattering medium producing device of the combined air pollution treatment and display is the one or more fluid outlets 1215 of any embodiment of the first aspect of the invention. The spray of fluid droplets produced by the one or more fluid outlets 1215 may be utilised as the scattering medium used to produce the three-dimensional imaging effect according to the second aspect of the invention.
[0154] The display screen 1280 of the combined air pollution treatment and display system 1200 being supported by the support 1275 of the first aspect of the invention, as well as the one or more fluid outlets 1215 and/or the secondary fluid outlet 1240 and/or the fluid baths 1250 being supported on the support 1275, allows the power and/or fluid utilities required for each of those components to be provided in the internal space of the support 1275. This maximises the available space for fluid droplets to interact with, attract and remove pollutant particles from the air flowing through the system 1200 (increasing the collection efficiency of the system) whilst simultaneously providing a display for a viewer to see.
[0155]
[0156] In the embodiment shown, the air outlet 1325 and the filter 1330 are arranged such that the air outlet 1325, the filter 130 and the display screen 1380 are all located at the same angular location about a longitudinal axis of the hollow structure 1305. In this embodiment, a viewer viewing the display screen 1380 of the system 1300 (from a direction perpendicular to the plane of the display screen 1380) will also be directly facing the air inlet 1325 and the filter 1330. In this embodiment, air expelled from the system 1300 back into the external environment is directed toward a viewer directly facing the display screen 1380. This may allow the system 1300 to provide a cooling effect to a viewer if there are high external temperatures. This may also allow for a four-dimensional experience for the viewer, comprising the three-dimensional image viewable via the system 1300, and a tactile or sensory experience (providing the so-called fourth dimension of the experience provided by the air flow exiting from the system 1300 via the air outlet 1325. This experience may be enhanced by positioning a fan 1345 near the outlet 1325 to facilitate and direct increased air flow through the air outlet 1325 and the filter 1330.
[0157] In alternative embodiments, the air outlet 1325 and the filter 1330 may be located at a different angular location about the longitudinal axis of the hollow structure 1305 than that of the display screen 1380.
[0158]
[0159] P.sub.1 is an air pressure of air entering the hollow structure 1405 through the open end. As the air is directed into the narrowed internal portion of the hollow structure 1405 formed by the baffles 1406, the velocity of the air flowing through the system increases, and is balanced by a drop in air pressure to P.sub.2, where P.sub.2 is a lower air pressure than P.sub.1. As the air flowing through the narrowed internal portion is moving at a greater velocity than air at the open end of the hollow structure 1405 (and is at a lower air pressure), there is a magnification of the air flow because air from the external environment is sucked in through the air inlet due to the pressure difference between the atmospheric pressure P.sub.a and P.sub.2, where P.sub.a is greater than P.sub.2. The resulting pressure P.sub.3 lower in the hollow structure 1405 is greater than P.sub.2. The Venturi effect therefore enhances air flow through the system 1400, with air velocity inside the hollow structure 1405, V.sub.2, greater than when it enters at the aperture V.sub.1 (V.sub.2>V.sub.1), and enables a higher throughput of air to be cleaned.
[0160] As can also be seen from
[0161] In the embodiment shown, an angle of less than or equal to 15 between the baffles 1406 and the external walls of the hollow structure 1405 is shown. An angle in this range is provided to optimise the utilisation of the Venturi effect without interrupting the flow of fluid and air through the narrowed internal portion of the hollow structure 1405. In alternative embodiments, however, angles of above 15 (for example, between 15 and 90) between the baffles 1406 and the external walls of the hollow structure 1405 may be provided.
[0162]
[0163] In such double or triple walled structure embodiments comprising a partial inner wall (formed either by one or more curved display screens, or a separate structure provided to enclose or cover one or more curved display screens), fluid outlets or a scattering medium producing device may be located either inside of or outside of the partial inner wall. In such embodiments, a fluid pipe may be located within the partial inner wall which may be used to supply a spray of fluid droplets to the air flowing through the system. This negates the need for one or more potentially lengthy fluid connections between a central fluid conduit located within a complete inner wall of a double walled structure, and one or more fluid outlets (of the scattering medium producing device) located in the space between a complete inner wall and a complete outer wall of a double walled structure. In this way, fluid distribution to the one or more fluid outlets is simplified.
[0164]
[0165] In such double or triple walled structure embodiments comprising a partial inner wall (formed either by one or more curved display screens, or a separate structure provided to enclose or cover one or more curved display screens), fluid outlets or a scattering medium producing device may be located either inside of or outside of the partial inner wall. In such embodiments, a fluid pipe may be located within the partial inner wall which may be used to supply a spray of fluid droplets to the air flowing through the system. This negates the need for one or more potentially lengthy fluid connections between a central fluid conduit located within a complete inner wall of a double or triple walled structure, and one or more fluid outlets (of the scattering medium producing device) located in the space between a complete inner wall and a complete outer wall of a double walled structure. In this way, fluid distribution to the one or more fluid outlets is simplified.
[0166] In aspects and embodiments, display screen is intended to be construed broadly. In alternative embodiments, the system may comprise one or more light sources either in place of, or in addition to, the display screen. The one or more light sources may be arranged to form a three-dimensional array of lights within the hollow structure to produce a visual display for a viewer. Light scattered by the fluid droplets may provide a visual effect similar to the holographic effect produced when rendering a three-dimensional image from a two-dimensional image displayed on a screen.
[0167] This combined system could be used to provide advertising images and videos whilst also providing a treatment for air pollution. This combined system could be used to create a revenue stream for stakeholders (e.g. councils, or any party interested in installing the system) whilst simultaneously cleaning the air of pollutant particles. Such a system decreases the barriers to effective pollution treatment, and allows the system to be scalable (i.e. widely implemented) due to the commercial revenue created by the advertising displayed by the system.
[0168] The combined air pollution treatment and advertising system opens up both new advertising spots and increased advertising real estate. A single system (combined air pollution treatment and display system) may be used as a stand-alone display unit, or a static or moving image may be spread across an array of systems to use a whole environment as one singular advert larger than the size of a single display screen. The feature of the system being modular (i.e. multiple systems may be stacked on top of one another, or connectable side by side through use of complimentary connecting features located on each of the systems) easily enables an array of systems to be installed.
[0169] The combined system could therefore be implemented in a distributed network across an outdoor environment, and for maximum impact can be placed in pollution hotspots (i.e. areas of slow moving traffic) in order to help drive high advertising revenue. The combined system could also be used inside buildings to tackle indoor air pollution.
[0170] From reading the present disclosure, other variations and modifications will be apparent to the skilled person. Such variations and modifications may involve equivalent and other features which are already known in the art of air pollution treatment and/or three-dimensional image formation systems, and which may be used instead of, or in addition to, features already described herein.
[0171] Although the appended claims are directed to particular combinations of features, it should be understood that the scope of the disclosure of the present invention also includes any novel feature of any novel combination of features disclosed herein either explicitly or implicitly or any generalisation thereof, whether or not it relates to the same invention as present claimed in any claim and whether or not it mitigates any or all of the same technical problems as does the present invention.
[0172] Features which are described in the context of separate embodiments may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination. The applicant hereby gives notice that new claims may be formulated to such features and/or combinations of such features during the prosecution of the present application or of any further application derived therefrom.
[0173] For the sake of completeness it is also stated that the term comprising does not exclude other elements or steps, the term a or an does not exclude a plurality, and any reference signs in the claims shall not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims.