US4196976A
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Liquid crystal display device
Assignee: Individual
•
Filing: 1978-01-30
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Granted: 1980-04-08
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Expires: 1998-01-30
Abstract
Abstract A multi-colored illuminated display device whereby colors are constantly changing due to small variations of temperature in the air moving about a contoured sheet of encapsulated cholesteric phase liquid crystal-coated polymeric film situated in a clear, colorless chimney. The rear interior surface of the chimney is coated to prevent the transmission of light therethrough, thus enhancing the reflected colors on the viewing faces. A source of heat and light such as a light bulb is used at the base. The heat rises by convection assisted by louvres or a small low speed fan may be installed. Many colorful designs may be achieved by varying the shape of the liquid crystal sheel and the range of heat temperatures used.
Inventors
- 👤 William A. Hoffman, III
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-10-25 10:11
CPC Classifications
G; G02; G02F; G02F1/00; G02F1/01; G02F1/13; G02F1/132
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 6
Claim 1
Independent Claim
125 words
An illuminated display device comprising: a base housing of an opaque material; a source of light within said device; a source of heat within said base housing; a chimney separably positioned above said base housing; said chimney having front and side viewing surfaces of a clear material and an interior rear surface coated with a black opaque substance; an opening between said base housing and said chimney to permit the passage of heat and light therethrough; a sheet of encapsulated cholesteric phase liquid crystal-coated polymeric film positioned within said chimney in a contoured shape; such that when said heat and light sources are activated, the passage of heat and light through said chimney results in an illuminated display device of varying colors and unpredictable patterns.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
125 words
An illuminated display device comprising: a base housing of an opaque material; a source of light within said device; a source of heat within said base housing; a chimney separably positioned above said base housing; said chimney having front and side viewing surfaces of a clear material and an interior rear surface coated with a black opaque substance; an opening between said base housing and said chimney to permit the passage of heat and light therethrough; a sheet of encapsulated cholesteric phase liquid crystal-coated polymeric film positioned within said chimney in a contoured shape; such that when said heat and light sources are activated, the passage of heat and light through said chimney results in an illuminated display device of varying colors and unpredictable patterns.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
19 words
The device of claim 1 wherein said sheet of encapsulated phase liquid crystal-coated polymeric film is a polyester film.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
26 words
The device of claim 1 further including a low speed fan to assist in the flow of heat and also provide an additional source of heat.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
20 words
The device of claim 1 wherein said source of light is a plurality of small lights positioned within said chimney.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
20 words
The device of claim 1 wherein said sources of heat and light are a light bulb in said base housing.
References Cited (Backward Citations)
USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1983-04-08 | 1983-10-08 | 1984-04-08 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 1987-04-08 | 1987-10-08 | 1988-04-08 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 1991-04-08 | 1991-10-08 | 1992-04-08 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |