Optical decoder for messages - comprises array of prisms with total internal reflection

Abstract

Abstract The message (9), which may be carried by a data card or tape (8) is formed by an array of elements (23, 24, 25, 26) such as alphanumeric characters or colours, at least some of which are significant. The optical decoder (5) is formed by a number of prisms (7) with total internal reflections, fitted together to define a castellated surface, on at least one edge of a transparent plate (6), each positioned in alignment with one of the information elements (23, 24, 25, 26). The width and height of the castellations corresponds to the spacing of the lines and columns of the array and their relative positioning corresponds to the coding of the significant elements, so that the message can be viewed in a straight line from the other edge (13) of the plate (6).

Inventors

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