EP0923770A1 - Dispositifs ameliores pour l'alteration et l'affichage de lumiere chimioluminescente - Google Patents

Dispositifs ameliores pour l'alteration et l'affichage de lumiere chimioluminescente

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Publication number
EP0923770A1
EP0923770A1 EP96933838A EP96933838A EP0923770A1 EP 0923770 A1 EP0923770 A1 EP 0923770A1 EP 96933838 A EP96933838 A EP 96933838A EP 96933838 A EP96933838 A EP 96933838A EP 0923770 A1 EP0923770 A1 EP 0923770A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
liquid
absorbing material
shell
light
rear wall
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP96933838A
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German (de)
English (en)
Other versions
EP0923770A4 (fr
EP0923770B1 (fr
Inventor
Andre J. T. Douglas
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Individual
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Individual
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Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Priority claimed from PCT/US1996/015093 external-priority patent/WO1998012691A1/fr
Publication of EP0923770A4 publication Critical patent/EP0923770A4/xx
Publication of EP0923770A1 publication Critical patent/EP0923770A1/fr
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0923770B1 publication Critical patent/EP0923770B1/fr
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

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Definitions

  • the instant invention relates generally to chemiluminescent devices and more particularly to devices adapted to control chemiluminescent light for display.
  • Display devices and signs have been heretofore available or proposed. In many cases they are bulky, fragile, noisy, and expensive devises, therefore leaving much to be desired as a limited duration or single event display device. In point of sales advertising, it is desirable to be unique, and strongly draw attention to the projected image.
  • Thicker absorbent requires a higher volume of chemical to become saturated, and therefore it is economical to use thinner materials which themselves are more likely to deform, buckle, dislodge, become misaligned or fall diagonally across the cavity, which destroys the quality of the intended light effect.
  • This mono-tonic attitude is specified by several critical design limitations, which dictate that the absorbent article must enhance light evenly, without variation throughout its entire surface area, and be of substantially the same shape as the outer shell.
  • the principal object of my invention is to provide a device, having several systematic features, that may be optionally combined and applied to the design of an illuminated artistic display. It is then possible to produce a chemiluminescent device of greater physical variation, demonstrating superior display control during activation and operation. Matters such as shape, size, shade, color, exhibition and interconnection, are addressed by implementing combinations of these specific features as a system, each of which complements and assists the performance of the other, and whose collective assembly accommodates the specific requirements of a unique image to be projected in a lighted form.
  • One advantage of this technique is that internal component collapse and migration is effectively kept in check, because multiple portions of the front and rear walls or shells are parallel or in close contact with the internal components, hence these internal components are supported simultaneously by the front and rear walls, thus affording greater physical diversity and choice in shape, size, and material types .
  • Another advantage to mirroring the protruding profiles of the internal components is that the activation process becomes more precise, due to easily recognized outward protrusions or recessed areas within the walls which contain the necessary internal chemical components awaiting activation, thus ensuring proportionate chemical mix, especially in complex or larger shapes .
  • a further advantage of such minimal cavity shell design is that strategic placement of the components within the walls, makes it possible to achieve reasonably even points of chemical release for saturation into other internal components, thus resulting in a device with repeatable and predictable activation.
  • Yet another advantage of such minimal cavity shell design is that because the two part chemiluminescent chemical is released into relatively smaller confines of the outward recesses or compartments within the device, the chemical is forced to mix more thoroughly.
  • This multi-functional shell is not only capable of the above mentioned active controls of its internal components, but the device also demonstrates a distinctive support or propping technique by adapting areas of the extreme periphery or flange area which may be extended further outwardly and beyond the boundary of its impervious seal, resulting in a device with potentially unlimited exhibition and support qualities.
  • this extended flange function may be utilized as a point of attachment, suspension or support, by shaping or forming the extensions upper edge to facilitate becoming merged, joined, interconnected, linked, fixed, bonded, overlapped or combined, thus creating unlimited variation of exhibition and support, with the option to form part of larger or continuous type displays.
  • Another advantage of this extended flange function is that by using this area as a support or attachment area, consequently all sides become free and visually unobstructed, to then provide the option of viewing or projecting its lighted image from either side, thus creating a multi-sided display.
  • Another primary object of my invention is to provide a multi spectrum type internal light control technique for the visual enhancement or suppression of the internally contained chemiluminescent chemical .
  • One advantageous light controlling technique is to adjust the light reflecting and refracting characteristics of the liquid-absorbent material layer itself, not only to enhance the absorbed light, but in some cases, to suppress or negate areas of the light.
  • This effect may be achieved by using a liquid-absorbent material which is of a lighter highly reflective mass to enhance absorbed light, or using a liquid-absorbent material of darker non-reflective mass which will suppress or hide the absorbed light within itself.
  • Another advantageous internal light controlling technique which effectively defuses the light after it has emanated from the liquid-absorbent is by providing parallel layers of materials of varying transparency, and whose color may be dissimilar to that of the originating chemical light. The result would be to alter or change the visual color effect of the light emanating from the liquid-absorbent material in the area under the parallel layers' influence, and which in turn, because of its potentially independent shape to that of the liquid-absorbent materials own primary shape, it may then provide independent images within the overall lighted effect of a simple device.
  • a further object of my invention is that the optional combination of the above light controlling techniques, once assembled as required, in variations of overlapping and side by side configurations, it is then possible to internally achieve any display design or effect of light contrasting and alteration required to produce an artistic display.
  • Fig.l illustrates a front elevational view of a primarily rectangular display device 1000 exhibiting a centrally located "Bat" shaped image, with the right hand portion of its forward facing area broken away to reveal the layered composition of its internal components, and having section line 2 vertically through its center.
  • Fig.2 a vertically sectional view through section line 2 of device 1000 showing the components, their interactive profiles, and their closely confined relationship to one another
  • Fig.3A illustrates a front elevational view of device 1000 where hatch lines indicate a different color or shade of light to the light emanating from the dotted central area.
  • Fig.3B an exploded isometric view of the transparent front shell 20 or wall of device 1000.
  • Fig.3C an exploded isometric view of the colored insert 26 layer incorporating a superimposing centrally located "Bat" shaped image independent of the primary perimeter rectangular shape of device 1000.
  • Fig.3D an exploded isometric view o the primary rectangular light enhancing front display image 28 of liquid-absorbing material of device 1000.
  • Fig.3E an exploded isometric view of a set of glass vials 46 isolating a proportionate ratio of pre- activated chemiluminescent chemical of device 1000.
  • Fig.3F an exploded isometric view of the opaque rear shell 22 or wall of device 1000.
  • Fig.4A illustrates a front elevational view of device 2000 where hatch lines indicate a light suppressed area within the dotted area indicating the emanating light.
  • Fig.4B an exploded isometric view of the transparent front shell 20A or wall of device 2000.
  • Fig.4C an exploded isometric view of the light negating insert 26A layer superimposing the "knock-out" image independent of the primary perimeter shape of device 2000.
  • Fig.4D an exploded isometric view of the primary light enhancing front display image 28A of liquid-absorbing material of device 2000.
  • Fig.4E an exploded isometric view of three sets of glass vial 46A, each set isolating a proportionate ratio of pre-activated chemiluminescent chemical of device 2000.
  • Fig.4F an exploded isometric view of the opaque rear shell 22A or wall of device 2000.
  • Fig.5 an elevational view and example of a modified rear shell 22B or wall incorporating ducts within device 2000.
  • the reference numeral 1000 generally designates the improved display device.
  • the device is illustrated by way of example as being primarily a rectangular lighted shape projecting an independent and centrally located "Bat" shaped image. It being understood that device 1000 is an example of an assembly utilizing a series of optional systematic features and components to create a lighted display.
  • device 1000 may be double sided and utilize any number or combination of these components and features assembled in any desired shape, color and configuration thereof in order to achieve the required artistic display.
  • a further consideration is the intended option of suspending device 1000 by helium filled balloons, demonstrating its lightweight construction.
  • device 1000 has a special flange design, and has also utilized light gauge materials, such as for example, thermoplastic type sheet in singular or composite form, of a general thickness 25 mil (0.025 inch) or below depending on required display size or rigidity.
  • Fig.l showing device 1000 having a somewhat rectangular contoured shape and where a transparent front shell 20 or wall is partially broken away at its right-hand side to first expose a colored and transparent layer of material referred to as an insert 26 whose perimeter in this case, is rectangular and incorporates within its central area a cutout "Bat" shaped image.
  • This layer too is broken away at its right-hand side to expose another rectangular layered liquid-absorbing material which forms a front display image 28.
  • this layer too is broken away in a portion of its right-hand side to reveal a set of glass vials 46, seen intact and therefore, the device 1000 is in a "pre-activated” state, whereby the required portions and ratio of chemiluminescent chemical are still captured and isolated within said glass vials 46.
  • an opaque rear shell 22 or wall which within itself is rearwardly recessed, to mirror and accommodate the protruding profiles of the internal components.
  • a vial chamber 40 serving as a closely confining compartment to accept said glass vials 46.
  • a duct 38 Radiating away from said vial chamber 40, is another rearward recess which is referred to as a duct 38, primarily designed to convey the chemical away from the vial chamber 40.
  • the perimeter area of said rear shell 22 closely contacts and matches the perimeter of said front shell 20 with the exception in this case, of an extended flange 35 seen further extending laterally and outwardly from the upper edge of said front shell 20 periphery and incorporating an attachment orifice 50.
  • This matched perimeter area referred to as a flange 34 incorporates an impervious seal 32, which effectively seals the internal components within the confines of its inner boundaries .
  • Fig.2 a vertically sectioned view through section line 2 of device 1000 shows the layered relationship of each component as they relate and interact with one another and showing that said front shell 20 is in close contact and in a parallel relationship to said insert 26, which itself is in close contact and parallel to said front display image 28, both component thickness closely matched to the rearward recess dimension of the inner cavity boarder wall 58, and therefore both components are effectively captured and supported in that area.
  • Glass vials 46 are in close contact with a rearward portion of said front display image 28 and are confined to a mirrored rearward recessed area formed within said rear shell 22 and in turn are effectively captured and supported in that area.
  • Fig.3A an elevational front view of device 1000 showing the device as it would appear in an activated state with the aid of hatch lines and dots representing the visual variation in light resulting from each components intended influence over others and over the originating chemiluminescent light.
  • Fig.3B an exploded isometric view of the transparent and colorless said front shell 20 of device 1000, which in this case is simply a sheet like layer of a thermoplastic resin having a rectangular shaped perimeter with said extended flange 35 protruding from its peripheral upper edge both laterally and outwardly, and centered on said front shell 20 upper edge.
  • said extended flange 35 is a short extended area protruding enough to accept an attachment orifice 50.
  • Fig.3C an exploded isometric view of, in the case of device 1000, a colored yet transparent sheet like layer of thermoplastic resin used as a light control member and designed as said insert 26 which is rectangular in peripheral shape incorporating a central knock-out area, shaped so that it superimposes a "Bat" like image onto the surface of the next layered material .
  • Fig.3D an exploded isometric view of the primary or peripheral rectangular shaped image of device 1000, being a liquid-absorbing material layer designed as said front display image 28 and from which the originating light will be projected.
  • Fig.3E an exploded isometric view of a set of three said glass vials 46, each as an elongated glass tube sealed at both ends and designed to contain and isolate a proportionate component of the chemiluminescent system, in a pre-activated state awaiting activation by disintegration within the confines of device 1000.
  • Fig.3F an exploded isometric view of, in the case of device 1000, an opaque said rear shell 22 incorporating all the necessary component controlling features required within device 1000 where this components sheet like layer of thermoplastic resin is of a rectangular contour and shows said flange 34 formed throughout its perimeter, and where at the inner boundary of said flange 34, this component is outwardly recessed slightly to accommodate the thickness of the intended layers to be located in this rectangular compartment of the shell wall.
  • This recessed wall is further outwardly recessed in a subordinate and centralized area to create a smaller rectangular area or compartment designed as said vial chamber 40 to accommodate the thickness and profile of the chemical isolating components.
  • FIG.4A an elevational front view of device 2000 showing the device as it would appear in an activated state with the aid of dots and hatch lines representing the visual variation in light resulting from each component's intended influence over others and over the originating chemiluminescent light.
  • Fig.4B an exploded isometric view of the transparent and colorless front shell 20A of device 2000, which in this case is simply a sheet like layer of thermoplastic resin having a perimeter shaped as a letter "d" and extending separately the extended flange 36 & 37 areas on either of its vertical sides.
  • the extended flange 36 on its right side is shaped somewhat like an arrow designed to easily be inserted into a mating orifice as is shown on said extended flange 37 on device 2000 left side.
  • Fig.4C an exploded isometric view of, in the case of device 2000, an opaque sheet like layer of thermoplastic resin designed as an insert 26A of rectangular shape with rounded corners designed so that it negates any light emanating from the surface area of the material layer directly behind itself.
  • Fig.4D an exploded isometric view of the front display image 28A which is the primary shape or contour of device 2000, and is a layer of liquid-absorbing material .
  • Fig.4E an exploded isometric view of three sets of three glass vials 46A, each vial within the set is an elongated glass tube sealed at both ends and designed to contain and isolate a proportionate component of the chemiluminescent chemical system, in a pre-activated state awaiting activation by disintegration within the confines of its compartment within device 2000.
  • FIG.4F an exploded view of in the case of device 2000, an opaque rear shell 22A which is a sheet like layer whose perimeter or outer contour closely matches the outer contour of said front shell 20A, with the exception of any extended flange areas.
  • a flange is shown throughout said rear shell 22A periphery and then within the inner boundary of the flange area is formed an outwardly recessed area to create a slightly lower level or compartment which is recessed enough to coincide with the thickness of the components to be located in that area.
  • This lower area is further outwardly recessed to create three subordinate yet independent rectangular indentations or cavities which are designed as vial chambers and themselves do not greatly exceed the outward profile or thickness of the components to be housed there.
  • Fig .5 a front elevation of a modified rear shell 22B or wall of device 2000 which shows an optional modification to the device 2000 to incorporate features used in device 1000 where ducts 38 which are outward recesses have been included and are shown to intersect and interconnect with all three outwardly recessed vial chambers 40, and are shown to radiate away from the vial chambers 40 and toward the flange 34.
  • Other features such as extended flange 36 & 37, attachment orifice 52, inner cavity boarder wall 58, and minimal inner cavity 56 are included.
  • This invention is directed at a device for the control and display of chemiluminescent light, of which is described a basic device comprising in sequential relationshi .
  • Said front shell 20 formed as a wall or sheet-like layer of a thermoplastic resin, which is shaped in the case of device 1000, as rectangle having a small outward protruding area of extension on the upper elongated edge of the sheet.
  • This extension is a surface through which a orifice has been made in order to facilitate attachment, merging and interlocking devices such as string, cords, pins, nails... etc.
  • the extensively flat structure of this wall is significant in the case of device 1000m because it mirrors closely the flat surface profile of the internal component in direct contact with this walls inner surface, thereby providing direct support for that layer and any other subsequent layers thereafter.
  • a small outlining area of the rectangular periphery of device 1000 is utilized as said flange 4 which is to be matched in a parallel overlying or layered relationship with a second wall or said rear shell 22 to be described later, this said flange 34 area will become the substrate which will receive said impervious seal 32.
  • the periphery of this wall does not necessarily have-to match or directly correspond with that of the second wall and visa versa, in fact there may be times that a single front will may accept several rear walls.
  • Said insert 26 which is a light control layer projecting a rectangular outline having a "Bat” image knocked out from its center area and placed immediately behind and in parallel or layered relationship to the inner surface of said front shell 20.
  • Said insert 26 is designed with a primary function in device 1000 to be a layered light controlling component that physically controls the visual effects of the chemiluminescent light whose origin will be discussed later, and which is emitted from behind its own inner surface. In the case of device 1000, this light passes through said insert 26, then continues outward as its passes through said front shell 20. The effect is an alteration in visual light characteristic of the light emanating from the area directly under the influence of said insert 26.
  • said insert 26 may be used to control suppression, negation or even enhancement of this light.
  • the forward surface of said insert 26 depends upon its close proximity and layered relationship to said front shell 20 for support and positioning, however it is equally as important for its own inner surface to be in close relationship with other internal components.
  • a front display image 28 which in the case of device 1000, is a rectangular liquid-absorbing layer, formed from a sheet-like light enhancing porous absorbent material which is readily saturated or impregnated by the chemiluminescent chemical to be discussed later. Once saturated, said front display image 28 projects outward, is own image in the form of light. In the case of device 1000, this lighted image or shape then travels forward through said insert 26 subsequently becoming defused or altered in those areas controlled by said insert 26, and continuing outward passing through said front shell 20, hence presenting a lighted display. However in other embodiments said inserts 26 may also be imparted on, or combined with said front display image 28 itself.
  • the forward surface of said front display image 28 is contributing to the support of the inner surface of said insert 26 due to its close proximity and parallel layered relationship, of which said insert 26 itself is experiencing simultaneous forward support from the inner surface of said front shell 20.
  • said front display image 28 if provided features relating to support and positioning in areas of its inner surface by perimetral portions further device components to be discussed.
  • a glass vial 46 set each individual vial contains and isolates an opposite part and portion of the liquid two part chemiluminescent system which when mixed, becomes activated and subsequently produces visible light.
  • the required proportionate mix is 2:1 and hence the use of a three vial set.
  • This proportionate set is located in close contact with the inner surface of said front display image 28 and simultaneously confined in close proximity to one another, in a rearwardly recessed area or compartment known as a vial chamber 40 provided in the final component of this assembly and to be discussed later. Said vial chamber 40 itself is in close contact with the rearward surface of said glass vial 46.
  • a rear shell 22 formed as a wall or profiled layer of a thermoplastic resin, whose contour in the case of device 1000, is a rectangle, also having rearwardly recessed areas formed as a plurality of compartments onto its inner facing surface within the boundaries of that rectangular periphery.
  • the first compartment is created by the perpendicular or rearward direction of the inner cavity border wall 58 which is adjusted to closely math the total thickness of said insert 26 and said front display image 28 together.
  • the next compartments a further rearward and perpendicular recess in a subordinate surface area of the first recess creating two essential features, one of which is said vial chamber 40, being rectangular in shape and closely matches not only the thickness or depth of said glass vial 46 but also the length and width displacement created by the three vial set.
  • the other essential feature is known as ducts 38, these are similar in rearward or recessed depth to that of said vial chamber 40 but are effectively narrow channels which intersect at either end of said vial chamber 40 and then extend for a distance toward the outer edge of said rear shell 22 without intersecting said flange 34.
  • the profiled structure of said rear shell 22 is significant in the case of device 1000, because it mirrors the surface profiles of the internal components exposed to its inner surface, thereby controlling the position of those components, and whenever possible maintaining as little distance as possible between the inner surface of said rear shell 22 and the inner surface of said front shell 20, wither one separated only by the mass of the components housed between them, thus effectively creating a minimal inner cavity 56.
  • Said minimal inner cavity 56 is considered such, because the aggregate mass of all internal components closely matches the total volume of void within the confines of said front shell 20 and rear shell 22, and that the lateral expanse of the subordinate compartments are substantially less that the lateral expanse of the layered material compartment .
  • Another feature is the outlining area of the rectangular periphery of said rear shell 22, which is utilized as said flange 34, and is to be mated in a parallel overlying relationship with a similar area found on said front shell 20, both then become the common substrate for said impervious seal 32.
  • the arrangement shape and configuration of this component may be changed in order to accommodate the profiles or displacement of those internal components best suited to the performance of that particular embodiment.
  • the instant inventions display system overcomes the pitfalls of previous single recess or vast cavity designs, which exhibited no relationship between internal component mass and internal void volume, resulting in devices whose internal components were much smaller than the void they were confined too. Therefore these devices were lacking in the ability to truly overcome collapse and migration of important internal light presenting components.
  • the added value of the instant inventions superior technique is that the inherent benefit of such control allows the manufacture of larger devices, subsequently opening new avenues far beyond novelty items and into the commercial field of advertising.
  • the favored chemiluminescent material is a liquid capable of providing chemiluminescent light for a finite period.
  • the precise chemical or physical nature of the chemiluminescent composition is not critical to the definition and scope of this invention. However, the light which is emitted by the material is preferred to be in the visible range and the material itself be "chemically compatible" within reason with materials utilized in the present invention.
  • the favored materials used in the creation of the present invention are materials which are capable of performing their desired function adequately so that they may interact favorably with one another to produce an illuminated display.
  • the precise chemical or physical nature of the materials used are not critical to the definition and scope of this invention. However, the material used is preferred to be "chemically compatible" within reason with the chemiluminescent chemical, and that the materials are capable of performing the desired task set forth by this inventions characteristics as a display system of interacting recesses, compartments, cavities, or the subordinates thereof, layers and formed surfaces or vessels.
  • said front shell 20 and said rear shell 22 both are "chemically compatible" within device 3000 (Fig.l) being transparent to translucent and opaque respectively, and typically of a thermoplastic resin sheet whose thickness range will generally not exceed 25 mils (0.025 inch) and may be produced from a polyolefin such as but not limited to, polyethylene, rigid vinyl, or the like.
  • said rear shell 22 for example may be formed of materials of a composite nature, such as a composite sheet having an outer layer of a metallic foil permanently joined by laminating on its underside or inner facing layer to a flexible thermoplastic resin or polyolefin type layer. Then being formed into a side or shell by a compression method producing an opaque shell of a single sided viewed device.
  • a composite sheet having an outer layer of a metallic foil permanently joined by laminating on its underside or inner facing layer to a flexible thermoplastic resin or polyolefin type layer. Then being formed into a side or shell by a compression method producing an opaque shell of a single sided viewed device.
  • thermoformed shell which is capable of being formed into shape and sealed to its opposing shell, but also exhibits an added internal component restricting benefit, which is that when this composite type shell which is sealed to an opposing transparent shell, is then depressed in the said vial chamber 40 (Fig.l) areas, in order to crush said glass vials 46 for activation, these areas will remain depressed in those areas due to the nature of the memory retaining metallic foil layer.
  • the advantageous result of this performance is that the void normally left behind once the said glass vials 46 disintegrate, is now removed and therefore provides added rearward support to the other internal components still remaining.
  • shell material is capable of being formed into its required shape and able to withstand the intended operational forces without violating the devices integrity as a liquid container, yet remain "chemically compatible” .
  • Forming of said front shell 20 or said rear shell 22 in the case of device 3000 may be achieved through die cutting a raw material sheet once desired features have been thermoformed thereon, but may also be achieved in other embodiments by pressure forming methods such as compression molding, or even injection molding.
  • said rear shell 22 in the case of device 3000 having thermoformed therein multiple recesses, compartments, cavities or receptacle-like features, which once sealed together with said front shell 20, produce a housing with five (5) critical criteria contributing to device performance, and essential for the successful control of internal components and a major influence in the performance of said device 3000, thereby making possible greater diversity of shape, dimension, activation, and arrangement.
  • the five (5) criteria are as follows :
  • a shell utilizing minimal inner cavity design by defining a first rearward recess or main compartment for confining layered components, then incorporating further rearward recesses as subordinates to the first for confining and controlling the chemical itself and its isolating receptacles.
  • These rearward recesses essentially mirror the profiles or displacement of the internally housed components, and have an aggregate void dimension which is without excessive volume in relation to the housed internal components. Resulting in effect to sandwich internal components between either shells inner surfaces and keeping in check those internal components for presentation as an artistic display.
  • ii) Provide a shell utilizing a specific recess or compartment, for the location and restraint of layered internal materials. Thereby providing simultaneous forward and rearward support for those layered material configurations .
  • iii) Provide a shell utilizing specifically located subordinate recesses or compartments, as consolidating type receptacles for the location of chemical isolating devices. Resulting in a confined area for these devices to be violated or destruct in order to release their contents to become relatively instantaneously mixed, initially in these confines and then dispersed to become absorbed. Thereby achieving controlled points of release for even and predictable absorption for superior activation and operation.
  • iv) Provide a shell utilizing specifically located and directional subordinate recesses or compartments, intersecting or interconnecting other larger compartments and radiating toward the inner boundaries of the device flange. Resulting in a conveyance feature for assisting the transfer of released chemical from within those larger compartments and toward the extremities of that particular device.
  • Criteria I & ii are evident in device 1000 where said minimal inner cavity 56 (Fig. 2) provides internal component restriction or confinement, when said front shell 20 and rear shell 22 are assembled and sealed in juxtaposed relationship, in this case by said impervious seal 32 being imparted throughout the matching perimeters of both said flanges 34 to ensure overall integrity of said minimal inner cavity 56.
  • Said minimal inner cavity 56 maintains its minimal clearance throughout, by defining at least two successive rearward recesses or compartments each of which accept within a close tolerance, only the bulk or mass of the component housed in that area, and that the lateral expanse of the second or subordinate compartment is substantially less than the lateral expanse of the first compartment.
  • This clearance dimension is controlled upon the formation of said rear shell 22 by increasing or decreasing the perpendicular dimension of an inner cavity border wall 58 (Fig. 2) accordingly.
  • the added result of this said minimal inner cavity 56 design is that the surface tension is greatly improved by each component successively contacts the next component throughout Device 1000 for better handling during any specialized manufacture requirements such as external display image.
  • Criteria iii is evident in device 1000 where said vial chamber 40 (Figs. 2 & 5) is a rearward recess in a subordinate area of the first rearward recess, forming a somewhat consolidating or confining area for a plurality or set of said glass vials 46 (Fig. 3E) .
  • This method is important to ensure not only that this required proportion of pre-activated chemical remains in close proximity to one another at all times, but also that, when these proportions are released by externally depressing the surface area of said vial chamber 40 to crush said glass vials 46, that these proportions are then released in rather close proximity to one another for improved mixing and hence improved activation of light.
  • Criteria iv is evident in device 1000 where said ducts 38 (Figs. 2 & 5) are also rearward recesses in subordinate areas of the first rearward recess, and form a plurality of channels which intersect said vial chamber 40 at either end and then radiate away from that area toward an extremity area.
  • This is effectively a conveyance network, whose purpose is to allow the collecting and travel of chemical from the point of release toward an extremity, in order to facilitate improved chemical dispersion.
  • Criteria v is evident in device 1000 where said extended flange 35 (Figs. 1 & 2) is a protruding feature generally extending laterally outward from the periphery and upper edge of said flange 34 and said impervious seal 32, and where said flange 34 itself is the foundation for said extended flange 35.
  • said extended flange 35 is provided as a medium which may accept an orifice or other integral form to become common, merge or interlock with another device or method of suspension or support, which may be achieved by extruding, bonding, sealing, forming, tying, pinning or any other method which will cause the mingling of devices.
  • inserts 26 being "chemically compatible" within Device 1000 formed of a transparent thermoplastic resin layer having die cut or knocked out from its center area the image of a "Bat” and seen as the layer immediately behind said front shell 20 and directly in front of said front display image 28.
  • This component is a light controlling member of different color to that of the chemiluminescent chemical light, effectively altering the visual color of the originating light over which it is superimposed and not affecting the color of the light passing unaffected through its knocked out center area. The result is a two color visual effect.
  • said insert 26 is relying on its position between the aforementioned components for its support and effective presentation .
  • said inserts 26 may be of any "chemically compatible" material, layered singularly or in plurality, positioned in front of, attached to, imparted on or incorporated in, any light enhancing material utilized to create the desired visual effect of light contracts. Said inserts 26 also having two (2) critical criteria governing their performance for successful control of light. The two (2) critical criteria are as follows:
  • ii) Provide a light "contrasting" material by engulfing or blocking the originating light within itself or behind itself to thereby appear indiscernible from its originating state and therefore of a stark contrast to other unaffected areas.
  • Insert 26 is a layer of material similar to that of said front shell 20 however is of a color opposite or different to the originating light and therefore will achieve a light altering influence over that light passing through it. In other embodiments this light altering effect may also be achieved by a layer of inert dye directly over or in contact with any area of the absorbent material .
  • Criteria ii) is not utilized in device 1000, however for the purpose of explanation, if in another embodiment the insert material were to be formed of a porous absorbent material having within itself or imparted upon itself a dark and non-reflecting color, the resulting effect would be to suppress, negate or block that light directly under its influence in-turn creating a stark contrasting effect to that of other unaffected areas.
  • said front display image 28 (Figs. 2 & 3D) being "chemically compatible" within device 1000, being a porous liquid-absorbing material of a light enhancing characteristic due to the ability of its mass to readily reflect the absorbed lighted chemical.
  • Said front display image 28 is seen as a layered material immediately behind said inserts 26 and directly in front of, in some areas said glass vials 46 and the remaining area said rear shell 22.
  • This component is a porous absorbent material readily saturated by the chemiluminescent chemical isolated within said glass vials 46 and this material is one such as a virgin non- woven material being 100% acrylic felt, available from "the Felters Co" of MA and generally of a thickness 0.18 inch or below.
  • porous absorbent materials such as composites like a high-loft, non-woven/air laid cellulose sheet available from "Oliver Products” of MI, or even other porous absorbent such as pulp or fiber paper sheet with blotting capability available from "James River Corp” of PA.
  • device 1000 or any other embodiment of the present invention requires that the porous absorbent material reasonably perform to that function for which it was selected, whether it be that high light output, negation, suppression or absorbency of light is the function of choice. Issues of rigidity are of no major concern for the instant invention because the device shell provides the support.
  • said glass vials 46 (Figs. 2 & 3E) formed of a frangible glass tube, heat sealed at both ends, preferably of type N51A glass available from "Becton Dickinson" of MO.
  • the function of said glass vials 46 within said device 1000 is to contain and isolate therein one opposite part of the two part chemiluminescent chemical system until required for activation. It is to be noted that in the case of said device 1000 the selected chemical proportion is 2:1 and therefore, one said glass vial 46 is accompanied by two similar said glass vial 46 containing the opposite proportionate part of the chemiluminescent compound thereby completing the chemiluminescent system required to produce the chemiluminescent light. Said glass vials 46 are themselves in the case of said device 1000 contained in specific areas of said rear shell 22 (Figs. 1 & 2) .
  • Said glass vial 46 must generally be of the frangible range whereby, crushing by hand may occur by exerting a reasonable pressure upon the external surface of said vial chambers 40 bearing down on and deflecting said glass vials 46 surface, in so doing disintegrating those proportionate groups of said glass vials 46 within said vial chambers 40 and releasing their contents to become combined with those released from their abutting similar said glass vials 46 containing the opposite chemical part.
  • Relatively instantaneous mixing initially occurs in the area of said vial chambers 40 yet further mixing and dispersion occurs as the released chemical travels within said ducts 38 becoming deposited in numerous remote areas across the surface of said front display image 28, the total quantity of chemical is such that substantial saturation of absorbent material within device 1000 occurs .
  • frangible materials or methods of chemical containment and isolation may be adapted and employed such as for example the fragile glass capsule within a flexible container as disclosed in U.S. patent number 2,681,168 or any other effective method of containment for that matter.
  • a single display device shown in elevational view shaped as the letter "d" , intended to appear once activated as the outline or framework of the letter being in yellow light with the center area or hole of the letter appear as a green light, thereby projecting a two color image using a single yellow chemical, in this case, the result is yellow and green and is described as follows:
  • Front shell may be formed from a sheet of colorless yet transparent thermoplastic resin about 0,02" thick, which therefore will not influence the color of the light in any way but will allow the light to pass through easily.
  • the perimeter flange area matches closely to the intended mating area of the rear shell (Fig. 4F) with the exception of the two extended flange areas on the right and left sides. Once imperviously sealed together the two create a device package or component suitable to control the position of the internal components .
  • Rear shell may be formed from a sheet of black and opaque thermoplastic resin about 0,02" thick, which therefore will not allow light to penetrate in this rearward direction. Its flange area closely matches and will mate in a parallel and flush relationship to the perimeter area of the front shell (Fig. 4B) . Its inner area exhibits the characteristic of a minimal cavity as there in a first recess within the boundaries of the flange area, and then in three separate central subordinate areas there are further rearward recesses creating compartments for vial sets. These compartments await layered assembly of internal components .
  • Insert is formed of dark blue tinted yet translucent thermoplastic resin sheet about 0.01" thick which is overlaid and fixed into position upon the porous material of the front display image (Fig. 4D) by a "chemically compatible” method such as an instant or silicone glue available from “Devcon Corp” of IL.
  • a “chemically compatible” method such as an instant or silicone glue available from “Devcon Corp” of IL.
  • any fixing, bonding, sealing or taping method may be used as long as it is “chemically compatible”.
  • This component will allow the passage of light, however because it is of a different color to the spectrum of yellow light generated by the chemical released from the glass vials (Fig. 4E) , it will alter the visual color of that light as it emanates outwardly from the front shell.
  • Porous absorbent material (Fig. 4D) formed of white light enhancing 100% acrylic felt about 0.05" thick engrossing entire inner cavity profile or first rearward recess in the rear shell (Fig. 4F) . Because of its light and therefore reflective mass, it will readily absorb the released chemical and then project that light in an outward direction to be controlled or effected by each component which it contacts.
  • Glass vials each isolate the chemiluminescent component proportions from one another until released by crushing the vials.
  • the chemiluminescent light provided in this case is producing yellow light.
  • the complete and proportionate set of vials are evenly distributed into three central areas or compartments within the rear shell (Fig. 4F) so that they may remain in that area awaiting release and mixing, whereupon their strategic location assures instantaneous and even chemical distribution for absorption into front display image (Fig. 4D) .
  • Device 2000 (Fig. 4A) is activated by applying pressure externally and directly onto the vial chamber area, which ruptures the glass vials to release the chemiluminescent chemical for mixing to create a yellow light.
  • the chemical dissipates throughout their respective components and features of the device, in so doing presents Device 2000 as a lighted image, where the framework of the letter is a yellow light and because the influence of dark blue material in the letters center or hole area, the light in that area will appear green.
  • Insert is formed of a black absorbent paper pulp sheet, rated at 1001b thickness overlaid and in this case may be stapled into position upon the porous absorbent material.
  • the glass vials (Fig. 4E) contain a chemiluminescent composition designed to produce a light in the blue spectrum. The resulting single color blue display is described as follows:
  • Device 2000 after activation produces a lighted image where the framework of the letter is a blue light and because of the influence of the absorbent black material in the letters center area, which effectively absorbs chemical into itself, and because of the materials dark and non-reflective nature, it will suppress or negate the light under its influence and thereby appear as a stark and contrasting area without light.
  • Fig. 4C is in effect a thin layer of inert dye such as pink paint which is "chemical compatible", applied directly onto the surface of the porous absorbent material.
  • the glass vials (Fig. 4E) contain a chemiluminescent composition designed to produce light in the white spectrum. Thereby projecting a two color image using a single white color chemical in this case, the result is white and pink, and is described as follows :
  • Device 2000 after activation presents a lighted image where the framework of the letter is a white light and because it is influenced only by enhancing the pink color through which it passes, the center area of the letter will appear pink.
  • the instant invention has to a considerable extent overcome absorbent collapse, and therefore has created an advantage which allows not only the use of a wider range of absorbent materials, but also thinner materials can now be used in larger displays.
  • thinner absorbent material not only is the device lighter because of lower absorbent bulk, but also requires less chemiluminescent chemical to saturate the absorbent area, which further contributes to an even lighter device. But ultimately, lower material and chemical levels translate to lower and more competitive pricing.
  • Yet another advantage within said device 1000 and the instant invention is that, by being able to selectively control the amount of light emitted from a particular area of absorbent material, greater and more effective image detail can be achieved, because light is limited to its source, which will provide superior contrast definition than that which may occur when attempting to control vast and superfluous amounts of light after it is released, which illuminates adjacent areas that may be adversely affected by such.
  • Another unforeseen advantage of an assembly such as said device 1000 and the instant invention is that once such teachings of device recess and layer design is incorporated into a display, there is an inherent surface tension caused by these components being assembled in this restricted and confined manner that becomes particularly suited to sustaining the deflecting forces, which occur during specialty application device handling such as the application of external images, and therefore the instant invention may be considered to possess a superior said secondary display plane.
  • a further advantage demonstrated in said device 1000 and said device 2000 is the use of the extended areas of said flange 34 to become the foundation for the support and exhibition of the instant invention.
  • the numerous advantages of this said extended flange 35 is that the side that would normally be occupied by adhesive or fixing agents as used by others, may now be optionally used as another display area affording the potential of the device being used as a center piece type display.
  • the instant invention has demonstrated the advantage of a truly novel and imaginative use of this perimeter area which opens new and exciting ways of exhibiting such a device to effectively customize its application, from being part of a larger continuous display, to being part of modular system of snap together numbers and letters, to being a button hole pendant, to being a wrist, waist, neck or head band, to being a stand alone sign, to being a continuous roll of shapes which may be cut to order, to being a coaster, to being inserted in a cardboard cut-out, the list is limited only to the possible shape, orifice, or formation achievable on this said extended flange 35.
  • the device may have other shapes, such as open or closed forms, convex or concave forms, trapezoidal, triangular, oval, figurine, etc., it may project light from a single side or both sides, either shell may be opaque composite or laminated materials and omit any number of available features, features may be of any dimension and have semicircular or triangular cross section rather than rectangular or square, images may be imprinted on internal components, internal components may be extended and incorporated in the perimeter said impervious seal 32, inner areas of the said front shell 20 and said rear shell 22 may receive occasional spot welds for added support , interconnecting components may be incorporated or extend from the surface area of said flange 34, total chemical isolation from either side may be achieved by extending and sealing another layer between said flange 34 of either said front shell 20 and said rear shell 22, this layer itself could have formed therein all the features used on said front shell 20 and said rear shell 22 in turn allowing said front shell 20 and rear said shell 22 to be flat in cross section, said glass vials 46 may be replaced

Landscapes

  • Illuminated Signs And Luminous Advertising (AREA)
  • Devices For Indicating Variable Information By Combining Individual Elements (AREA)

Abstract

Dispositif d'affichage artistique du type chimioluminescent qui comporte un boîtier (20, 22) doté d'une paroi externe (20) pratiquement plate à travers laquelle est transmise une image optique, un corps de matière (28) absorbant les liquides formant essentiellement une couche plate placée parallèlement à la paroi externe, et une série de flacons parallèles (46) qui contiennent respectivement des liquides séparés et qui peuvent être cassés afin que les liquides produisent un mélange générant une lumière chimioluminescente destinée à saturer le corps de matière (28) absorbant les liquides. Un compartiment (40) ménagé à l'intérieur du boîtier est en communication avec la couche plate (28) de matière absorbant les liquides mais présente des dimensions latérales inférieures à celles de ladite couche, et est adapté pour recevoir les flacons cassables (46). Des conduits qui s'étendent radialement et vers l'extérieur depuis le compartiment (40) fournissent un accès fluidique au liquide mélangé qui peut ainsi s'écouler du compartiment (40) vers la périphérie de la couche plate du corps (28) de matière absorbant les liquides. Des parties de la paroi arrière (22) supportent également le corps (28) de matière absorbant les liquides à des endroits intermédiaires par rapport aux conduits (38). La présente configuration localise la série de flacons cassables (46) si bien qu'ils peuvent être cassés de manière plus fiable, tout en protégeant l'intégrité mécanique du corps (28) de matière absorbant les liquides une fois que les flacons ont été cassés. Une bride étendue (37, 38) de la paroi arrière (22) fournit des attaches pour ledit dispositif sur un support.
EP96933838A 1996-09-19 1996-09-19 Dispositifs ameliores pour l'alteration et l'affichage de lumiere chimioluminescente Expired - Lifetime EP0923770B1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/US1996/015093 WO1998012691A1 (fr) 1995-02-02 1996-09-19 Dispositifs ameliores pour l'alteration et l'affichage de lumiere chimioluminescente

Publications (3)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0923770A4 EP0923770A4 (fr) 1999-06-23
EP0923770A1 true EP0923770A1 (fr) 1999-06-23
EP0923770B1 EP0923770B1 (fr) 2003-02-12

Family

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EP96933838A Expired - Lifetime EP0923770B1 (fr) 1996-09-19 1996-09-19 Dispositifs ameliores pour l'alteration et l'affichage de lumiere chimioluminescente

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Country Link
EP (1) EP0923770B1 (fr)
JP (1) JP2001500639A (fr)
AU (1) AU722447B2 (fr)
DE (1) DE69626226T2 (fr)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP3156992A1 (fr) * 2015-10-14 2017-04-19 James A. Guertin Dispositif de revêtement persistant

Families Citing this family (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US7256389B2 (en) * 2005-11-07 2007-08-14 Emhart Glass Sa Glass bottle inspection machine

Family Cites Families (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4635166A (en) * 1985-08-28 1987-01-06 Cameron Robert W Chemical emergency light
US4814949A (en) * 1987-11-13 1989-03-21 American Cyanamid Company Chemiluminescent device

Non-Patent Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
No further relevant documents disclosed *
See also references of WO9812691A1 *

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP3156992A1 (fr) * 2015-10-14 2017-04-19 James A. Guertin Dispositif de revêtement persistant

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP0923770A4 (fr) 1999-06-23
JP2001500639A (ja) 2001-01-16
DE69626226D1 (de) 2003-03-20
AU722447B2 (en) 2000-08-03
AU7241596A (en) 1998-04-14
EP0923770B1 (fr) 2003-02-12
DE69626226T2 (de) 2003-09-25

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