Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
CA 02948112 2016-11-10
SYSTEM, METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DIRECTED LED DISPLAY
Field of Invention
This invention relates in general to the field of LED light displays and more
particularly
to directing the light emission from LED light displays.
Background of the Invention
Prior art light-emitting diode (LED) light displays are flat panel displays
that incorporate
an array of light-emitting diodes to produce a display, for example, such as a
visual
display of information. The diodes function as pixels in the display. The
brightness of an
LED light display allows it to be used outdoors or indoors. LED light displays
are
commonly utilized as store signs, billboards, destination signs on public
transport
vehicles, and for other purposes of displaying information to an audience. LED
light
displays are further utilized to provide illumination that may be decorative
or technical,
such as stage lighting or seasonal display lighting.
Generally a LED light display emits light from the entire forward side of the
diodes, and
therefore light is emitted from the LED light display in a hemispherical
direction. In fact
the purpose of traditional outdoor LED displays used in advertising has been
to provide
the best image quality at the widest possible view angles. As a result of this
goal, most
prior art outdoor LED displays share a few common optical features: wide-angle
oval
LEDs which provide wide horizontal view angles but a compressed vertical view
angles;
horizontal louvers on the physical faces of the LEDs which provide sun-shading
and UV
protection for the LEDs and improved visual contrast; and a layout of the red
green and
blue elements in each pixel in such a way that minimizes cross-blocking
between pixels.
Therefore, most outdoor LED displays have very similar optical performance
across all
manufacturers.
The result is that light emission is directed towards a target audience, as
well as in the
direction of other environments where the target audience is not present.
Light trespass,
which is the emission of light into areas where the target audience is not
present and
where there is no purpose for the light to be emitted, occurs and can in fact
be a source of
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consternation for areas that are sensitive to light trespass. For example,
residential
neighborhoods, airport facilities, and protected nature reserves are all areas
which are
highly intolerant to light trespass, and traditionally would prevent or block
the
authorization for and installation of an LED display.
The prior art includes many different methods and techniques to manipulate the
optical
output pattern of LED elements, whether static or changeable. The prior art
can be
grouped into three categories: 1) LED elements for use with luminaires, 2)
lenses for
lighting elements for improvement of optical performance by means of
increasing light
utilization ratio (i.e., the ratio of light arriving at a target audience to a
total amount of
light emitted), or 3) louvers for the shading of LED diodes from sunlight.
Examples of prior art designed for luminaires includes US Patent No. 8622573
for LED
Array Beam Control Luminaries, issued to ROBE Lighting s.r.o. on January 7,
2014, and
US Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0192274 (Patent Application No.
14/148546
filed January 6, 2014), owned by Frantisek Kubis and Pavel Junk on publication
date
July 9, 2015. This patent and patent application disclose inventions that seek
to use an
optical cover design to mitigate some of the optical disadvantage of an LED
array
luminaire, namely color fringing, beam angle control and light spill
management. Such
LED array luminaires are configured to typically include many LED elements
within one
reflective enclosure. Thus, the configuration differs from LED displays that
are
configured to incorporate elements in a planar grid that are individually
exposed without
a cover.
The second category of prior art includes LED optics applied to individual LED
diodes,
such as is disclosed in US Patent No. 6603243 for LED Light Source with Field-
of-View-
Controlling Optics, issued to Teledyne Technologies Incorporated on August 5,
2003. An
LED element is disclosed that incorporates an integrated lens and internal
optical
reflectors. The LED element is utilized to focus light output slightly
downward to target
the intended audience, and to improve efficiency by maximizing the light
utilization ratio.
US Patent No. 9347644 for Lens and Light Source Unit, issued to Sharp
Kabushiki
Kaisha on May 24, 2016, further discloses the integration of a lens cap upon
each LED
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diode. The lens cap is used to guide the light source to highly oblique
directions from the
light source, or further to split the output of light into multiple non-
continuous directions.
US Patent No. 8848139 for Optical Member, Light Source Apparatus, Display
Apparatus, and Terminal Apparatus, issued to NLT Technologies, Ltd. on
September 30,
2014, discloses various designs for a Fresnel lens cover sheet to be used for
the purpose
of focusing light output to a desired observation point to maximize the light
utilization
ratio while maintaining image uniformity. This is achieved by the optical
design of
covers residing on top of Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) assemblies. This prior
art
pertains only to small-scale displays such as computer monitors, mobile
phones, and
other terminal displays. This technology cannot be applied reasonably to a
large format
LED display. This is so because a large format LED display is not a planar
light emitter,
and it is not mechanically feasible to apply this prior art to an LED display
due to the 2-3
orders of magnitude increase in size compared to a LCD.
U.S. Patent No. 868677 for Directionally Filtered Indicator Light, issued to
The Boeing
Company on Aprill, 2014, that discloses a directionally filtered indicator
light that
incorporates a directional filter applied to a light source. The light is
controlled to emit
light when a condition or series of conditions are met. The directional filter
regulates the
transmission of light from the light source such that a first group of
individuals located
within a viewing angle are the only individuals able to see the transmitted
light.
United Kingdom patent publication no. GB2417817 for Traffic Signals, owned by
AGD
Systems Ltd. as of publication date August 26, 2009, discloses a pedestrian
traffic signal
having a housing that contains a light source. The housing further incorporate
a viewing
angle control screen formed of a flat material. This invention is operable to
affect the
viewability of the traffic signal from particular viewing angles by a
pedestrians.
The third category of prior art includes louvers that shade LEDs from sunlight
to provide
protection to the LEDs from mechanical and sun damage, as well as to improve
visual
contrast of the display. Some examples of such patents include US Patent No.
9202394
for Method and Design for Shading in a Display System, issued to Barco NV on
December 1, 2015, which discloses a louver design and attachment mechanism
that is
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connected to the LED elements themselves. (Traditionally louvers are fastened
to the
module body.) Another prior art example is US Patent No. 8350788 for Louver
Panel for
Electronic Sign, issued to Daktronics, Inc. on June 8, 2013, that discloses
louvers that
protect LEDs from sunlight and visually camouflage the seams between LED
modules. A
further prior art example is US Patent Application Publication No.
2008/0141570 for
Thermoplastic Elastomer Protective Louver Covering for Use with an Electronic
Display
Module (Patent Application No.11/589405 filed October 30, 2006), owned by
Daktronics
Inc. upon the publication date of June 19, 2008, that discloses the use of an
elastomer
material for the construction of louvers to increase impact resistance and
reduce harm to a
person coming into forceful contact with the display face. As an example, this
prior art is
a football field perimeter display. These three prior art examples describe
various louvers
configured to solve specialized problems, however, none of these prior art
examples
solve the problem of minimizing light trespass while preserving image quality
for the
intended audience of a LED light display.
As a further prior art example, Yaham OptoelectronicsTM produces a technology
wherein
a sheet of arrayed lenses is attached to the front of an LED module to
collimate light from
wide-directional Surface Mount Device (SMD) LEDs into a narrower beam. This
prior
art aims to improve light utilization ratio while at simultaneously limiting
off-angle
output. One drawback of this prior art technology is that it has limitations
for use with
SMD LEDs due to the much tighter manufacturing tolerances achievable. Another
drawback of this prior art technology is that it creates an extra surface for
sunlight
reflection from the lenses, which significantly compromises the contrast and
image
quality of the display. This is considered acceptable in this prior art
application as it is
used with Highway Variable Message Signs that only indicate text messages or
directional messages. Such signs do not incorporate images, such as
advertising images.
Yet another drawback of this prior art, from a light trespass perspective, is
that the beam
is focused up to a point, and it can only achieve a reduction of light
trespass to the side
and cannot achieve elimination of light trespass.
There is presently a proliferation of LED displays employed to provide
advertisements
around the world, including along roadsides. Therefore, what is needed is a
LED light
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display, and a system operable to create and/or position a LED light display,
that is
operable to: (i) minimize light trespass into unintended areas to address
light trespass for
light sensitive areas located near such LED displays, and to address the
increasing effort
by local governments to regulate and restrict the installations of such LED
displays; and
(ii) block light emission in directions that require protection, while
preserving quality of
image in the direction of the intended audience. What is further needed is, an
LED light
display that is designed to achieve the reduction of light trespass in the
horizontal
directions in digital displays, while simultaneously achieving (and not
compromising) the
industry gold standard in optical performance as experienced the intended
target
audience. What is yet further needed is a LED light display that does not have
limitations
for use with SMD LEDs due to the much tighter manufacturing tolerances
achievable,
and can function with Dual Inline Pin (DIP) oval LEDs. What is still further
needed is a
LED advertising displays that does not interfere with the standard and
optimized optical
performance of the LED elements due to modification of the light output in the
intended
view direction, and that fully blocks direct light output in the light
trespass direction
instead of merely reducing it.
Summary of the Invention
In one aspect, the present disclosure relates to a LED light display apparatus
comprising:
a printed circuit board (PCB) positioned; one or more LED diodes connected to
the PCB;
one or more blocking elements, each of the one or more blocking elements being
positioned proximate to at least one of the one or more LED diodes, whereby
light
emitted from one or more LED diodes is blocked in at least one direction; and
whereby
light emitted from the LED light display apparatus is blocked in at least one
direction at a
range of angles from the front of the LED light display apparatus in such
direction, and
said light being viewable as one or more images providing information to a
viewer.
The LED light display apparatus further comprising three or more viewing
regions in the
area surrounding the LED light display apparatus, including at least the
following: a first
viewing region that is in front of the LED light display apparatus and within
a range of
angles from the front of the LED light display apparatus wherein light
emission from the
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LED light display apparatus is visible by a viewer; a second viewing region
that is within
a range of angles from the front of the LED light display apparatus that is
farther from the
front of LED light display apparatus than the first viewing region, wherein
light emission
from the LED light display apparatus is diminished; and a third viewing region
that is
within a range of angles from the front of the LED light display apparatus
that is farther
from the front of the LED light display apparatus than the second viewing
region,
wherein light emission from the LED light display apparatus is eradicated or
nearly-
eradicated.
The LED light display apparatus further comprising at least one of the one or
more
blocking elements being horizontally light blocking louvers.
The LED light display apparatus further comprising the one or more blocking
elements
configured to incorporate a section attachable to the PCB, and an arm that
extends away
from the PCB in the same direction as the one or more LED diodes extend away
from the
PCB, said arm being operable to block the light from at least a portion of the
LED diode
it is proximate to in the direction that the light is emitted from the LED
diode towards the
arm of the blocking element.
The LED light display apparatus further comprising the arm of the blocking
element
being any of the following shapes or configurations: flat sided, semi-circular
cupped, or
multi-segmented.
The LED light display apparatus further comprising any of the following
elements
configured to block light emission from the LED diode that the blocking
element is
positioned proximate to: a fin, a ridge, and a cup.
The LED light display apparatus further comprising at least one of the one or
more
blocking elements being reflection minimization louvers configured to
incorporate: a
light emission blocking arm operable to block light emission from the LED
diode
proximate to the reflection minimization louver; and a reflection blocking
flange angled
in relation to the reflection of light emitted from the LED diode to block all
or a portion
of the such reflection. Therefore, a reflection minimization louver can
effectively be a
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form of blocking element that has a traditional louver element that blocks
light emission
from an LED diode incorporated with a reflection minimization element that
blocks at
least a portion of light emission from a LED diode that is reflected of
another surface
(such as off a surface of a reflection minimization element, or a surface of a
blocking
louver or any other blocking element).
In another aspect, the present disclosure relates to a method to model light
emission from
a LED light display unit located in an installation site, comprising the steps
of: obtaining
a map showing an installation site; indicating a location of the LED light
display unit
within the installation site; positioning the LED light display at the
location towards a
target audience area; indicating the configuration of the LED light display;
and
generating a light map indicating the light emission from the LED light
display unit in
relation to the installation site.
The method further comprising the steps of: a user providing one of the
following to
indicate the location of the LED light display unit in the installation site:
a GPS
coordinate, or a location address; the LED light display being positioned at
the location
by being rotated in any direction; and the configuration of the LED light
display unit
being indicated through input of parameter information by a user
The method further comprising the steps of: overlaying the light map upon the
installation site, whereby the light emission from the LED light display unit
is indicated
in relation to the installation site; the user or the system reviewing the
light emission and
evaluating whether the light emission will affect a light sensitive area in
the installation
site.
The method further comprising the steps of: the user modifying the LED light
display
unit within the installation site to do one of the following: relocate,
reposition and
reconfigure the LED light display within the installation site; generating a
light map
indicating the light emission from the modified LED light display unit in
relation to the
installation site; overlaying the light map upon the installation site,
whereby the light
emission from the LED light display unit is indicated at the installation
site; and the user
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or the system reviewing the light emission and evaluating whether the light
emission will
affect a light sensitive area in the installation site.
The method further comprising the step of indicating one or more locations
within the
installation site, and evaluating the light emission shown on the light map in
relation to
the one or more locations.
The method further comprising the step of the light map indicating two or more
viewing
regions in the installation site, including at least the following: a first
viewing region that
is in front of the LED light display unit and within a range of angles from
the front of the
LED light display unit, wherein light emission from the LED light display unit
is visible
by a viewer; a second viewing region that is within a range of angles from the
front of the
LED light display unit that is farther from the front of LED light display
unit than the
first viewing region, wherein light emission from the LED light display unit
is
diminished; and a third viewing region that is within a range of angles from
the front of
the LED light display unit that is farther from the front of LED light display
unit than the
second viewing region, wherein light emission from the LED light display unit
is
eradicated or nearly-eradicated
The method further comprising the step of a computer program being generated
that is
operable to perform the steps of the method, said computer program being
operable by
the processors of a computing device that is connected to an input device,
whereby a user
of the method can input information to the computer program and such computer
program can utilize such information.
The method further comprising the step of generating output that provides
information
regarding light emission from the LED light display unit as one of the
following: a report,
or a display.
The method further comprising the step of generating the report to be in a
format required
by a third party and transmitting the report to the third party.
The method further comprising the step of providing and utilizing parameter
information
for the configuration of the LED light display unit that includes one or more
of the
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following: configuration of one or more blocking elements each being
positioned
proximate to at least one LED diode, and pixel arrangement within the LED
light display
unit.
In yet another aspect, the present disclosure relates to a method of
configuring a LED
light display, comprising the steps of: determining a target audience area in
front of the
LED light display being an area wherein light emission from one or more LED
diodes in
the LED light display is to be viewable; determining in reference to the
target audience
area the type of one or more blocking elements to be incorporated in the LED
light
display, each blocking element being positioned proximate to one of the one or
more
LED diodes in the LED light display and blocking at least a portion of the
light emission
from the LED diode in at least one direction; and determining in reference to
the target
audience area the pixel layout of the one or more LED diodes and one or more
blocking
elements in the LED light display; whereby the LED light display is configured
such that
light emission from the LED light display is visible in the target audience
area and such
light emission forms information, one or more images, or a combination of
information
and one or more images.
The method of configuring the LED light display comprising the further steps
of:
identifying any light sensitive area in an installation site where the LED
light display is to
be installed; generating a light map showing the light emission from the LED
light
display, and displaying said light map in relation to the installation site;
determining if
light emission will reach any light sensitive area in the installation site,
such as to
represent light trespass; determining any modification of location, position
or
configuration of the LED light display to cause light emission to not reach
any light
sensitive area, and to reach the target audience area in an installation site
so as to provide
maximum viewing quality of the information that the light emission is
configured to
project to a viewer in said target viewing area, to thereby model, simulate
and plan the
installation of the LED light display unit at the installation site; and
generating one or
more reports, including any of the following: a report of the location,
position and
configuration of the LED light display and providing said report to a third
party builder
of LED light displays; and a report of the location, position and
configuration of the LED
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light display and the light emission therefrom and providing said report to a
third party
approver of LED light display installation at the installation site.
The method of configuring the LED light display further comprising the step of
a
computer program being generated that is operable to perform the steps of the
method,
said computer program being operable by the processors of a computing device
that is
connected to an input device, whereby a user of the method can input
information to the
computer program and such computer program can utilize such information.
In this respect, before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in
detail, it is
to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the
details of
construction and to the arrangements of the components set forth in the
following
description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other
embodiments
and of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be
understood that
the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of
description and
should not be regarded as limiting.
Brief Description of the Drawings
The invention will be better understood and objects of the invention will
become
apparent when consideration is given to the following detailed description
thereof. Such
description makes reference to the annexed drawings wherein:
FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a section of a LED light display of an
embodiment of
the present invention.
FIG. 2a is a perspective view of a LED light display of an embodiment of the
present
invention viewed from the front.
FIG. 2b is a perspective view of a LED light display of an embodiment of the
present
invention viewed from a side angle.
FIG. 2c is a perspective view of a LED light display of an embodiment of the
present
invention viewed from a greater side angle than shown in FIG. 2b.
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FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a section of a LED light display of an
embodiment of
the present invention showing reflections arriving at a viewer in the
protected region.
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a section of a LED light display of an
embodiment of
the present invention incorporating reflection minimization louvers.
FIG. 5a is a front view of a section of a LED light display of an embodiment
of the
present invention showing an example of a pixel layout pattern incorporating
blocking
elements.
FIG. 5b is a front view of a section of a LED light display of an embodiment
of the
present invention showing an example of a pixel layout pattern incorporating
blocking
elements.
FIG. Sc is a front view of a section of a LED light display of an embodiment
of the
present invention showing an example of a pixel layout pattern incorporating
blocking
elements.
FIG. 5d is a front view of a section of a LED light display of an embodiment
of the
present invention showing an example of a pixel layout pattern incorporating
blocking
elements.
FIG. 5e is a front view of a section of a LED light display of an embodiment
of the
present invention showing an example of a pixel layout pattern incorporating
blocking
elements.
FIG. 5f is a front view of a section of a LED light display of an embodiment
of the
present invention showing an example of a pixel layout pattern incorporating
blocking
elements.
FIG. 6 is a systems diagram of the system of an embodiment of the present
invention.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart of the steps of the method of one embodiment of the
present
invention.
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FIG. 8 is a screen shot of an example of information output generated by the
computer
software and examples of visualization tools that a user can utilize to
generate a plan of
an embodiment of the present invention for planning the position of a LED
light display
in relation to LED light display configuration and aspects of an installation
site.
FIG. 9a is a plan showing the light emission area from LED light display of an
embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 9b is a plan showing the light emission area from LED light display of an
embodiment of the present invention.
In the drawings, embodiments of the invention are illustrated by way of
example. It is to
be expressly understood that the description and drawings are only for the
purpose of
illustration and as an aid to understanding, and are not intended as a
definition of the
limits of the invention.
Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiment
The present invention is an optical LED light display incorporating one or
more louvers
operable to limit the light emission in a specified direction from a LED diode
within the
LED light display, each louvers being positioned in relation to each LED light
element in
the LED light display. The specified direction of the light emission may be
towards a
target audience or a target direction. A method of the present invention that
may be
implemented by a software program processed by computer processors of a
computer
device, may be operable to enable the design of the LED display louver for
installation in
a specific area to enable simultaneous elimination of light trespass and
preservation of
image quality for the target audience. A LED light display can be
manufactured,
configured and installed in accordance with the method.
The LED light display of the present invention is operable to prevent the
light emission
into light sensitive areas, while preserving display image quality in the
direction of
targeted viewing. The one or more louvers of the LED light display are each
positioned in
relation to one or more LED lights (diodes) in the LED light display. The
louver blocks
the emission of light from the LED light in one or more directions. The
blocking of the
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light by the louver also defines the direction in which the light emission
will be allowed.
The blocking of the light by the louver creates separate angle regions from
the front and
center for the LED light display: for optimal viewing; for light trespass
reduction; and an
undesirable transition region that is neither good for viewing nor fully
protects against
light trespass. A method may be operable to optimize the resulting location of
such
regions in relation to the location and position of a LED light display of a
particular
configuration in an area. The method is implementable by a software program
that
incorporates instructions that are processed by processors of a computer
device. The
method may operable to determine the optimum configuration of the louvers in
the LED
light display, and installation parameters relating to the LED light display,
such as
location placement and rotation around a specific installation site. The
method may
further be operable to provide resulting light impact estimations for
presentation to
project stakeholders.
LED light display includes LED digital billboards, signs, LED electronic
message
centers, LED variable message signs, other emissive displays with discrete
light emitting
components, and other LED display systems comprising modular LED panels. The
LED
light display may be utilized to display complex and detailed images.
Louvers may be formed of any material that is not translucent and that has
heat-resistant
qualities and characteristics as required for a particular LED light display
configuration.
(The level of heat and UV output of a LED light display will depend upon its
configuration.) For example, polycarbonates, elastomer, wood, plastic, or any
other
material may be utilized to form a louver.
The louver configuration of a LED digital display is a mechanical means to
control
horizontal light trespass and simultaneously preserve image quality for the
targeted
audience. The system and method of the present invention further aid in the
design of the
LED digital display to effect a particular light impact, by allowing for
analysis, modeling,
planning and presentation of a representation of the LED light display within
a
representation of the installation site. Reports can be generated from the
software in a
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variety of forms. As one example, a report may be generated in the form of
light trespass
reduction proposal for submission to municipal authorities and/or other
stakeholders.
As an example of an embodiment of the present invention, an LED light display
to be
positioned next to a highway can be configured to direct the light emission
from the LED
light display to the area of the highway. The software program can be utilized
to
determine the optimal position of the louvers in the LED light display to
block light
emission in directions other than the area of the highway. For example, light
emission
may be blocked from reaching from any residential buildings that are located
on the side
of the highway near the LED light display. The result is that the LED light
display can be
utilized to display information to drivers on the highway, but the light will
not trespass
into the residential buildings located near the highway. The benefit of the
present
invention in this example is that the occupants of the residential buildings
will not be
subject to any significant light trespass, and as a result the LED display is
far more likely
to be approved for installation in this location.
A skilled reader will recognize that there are potentially many types of
communities and
environments that may be positioned close to a LED light display (or a
proposed location
for a LED light display) from which light trespass should be eliminated or
diminished.
For example, office buildings, residential communities, airports, rail
corridors, wildlife
environments, and other areas that have inhabitants or environments that may
find light
from an LED light display unwanted or harmful, may benefit from the present
invention
that will block light emission from a nearby LED light display from reaching
such
inhabitants or environments.
The term "blocking elements" may be utilized herein to reference any type of
louver,
including reflection minimization louvers, or other blocking elements.
The term "LED light display" may be utilized herein to reference a physical
display,
whereas the term "LED light display unit" may be utilized herein to reference
a
representation of a LED light display that can be utilized by the method,
computer
program and/or system of embodiments of the present invention.
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The terms "LED diode", "LED light" may be utilized interchangeably herein to
reference
any individual element that is operable to emit light. The term "LED module"
represents
a planar unit comprising an array of LED diodes. Multiple LED modules may be
integrated into a LED light display.
The terms "computer program" and "computer software" may be utilized
interchangeably
herein to reference a set of commands programmed in a computer language that
can be
stored in any medium, including hard drive storage, a portable storage device,
a server, or
any other type of storage. The commands can be executed by a microprocessor of
a
computing device to produce the processing and outputs described herein. The
computer
program may be operated by the system of the present invention. The computer
program
may be utilized to implement the method of the present invention or a portion
thereof
Any reference herein to "sensitive communities" or "sensitive areas" is a
reference to
communities, whether structures or people, sensitive to light trespass. Areas
or
communities that are light sensitive may include but are not limited to areas
of traffic
signaling, railway right of ways, airports, residential areas, nature
preservation areas, or
any other area deemed to be negatively impacted by unnecessary light emission
or
information transmitted from the LED digital display.
The present invention, and in particular the LED light display is configured
to incorporate
multiple louvers each being associated with an LED diode of the LED light
display. The
louvers and LED diodes are further configured to achieve interactions between
the
louvers and one or more LED lights, whereby the louver blocks light directly
from a LED
diode, or blocks the reflection of light from a LED diode.
Furthermore, the present invention is operable to be configured such that the
louvers and
LED diodes generate an image display that can be viewed within a specific
viewing area,
as discussed herein. The configuration of the LED light display of the present
invention is
arranged to achieve optimum image quality of the image displayed by the LED
light
display within a defined viewing area wherein members of a target audience
will view the
LED light display. Therefore, the configuration of the LED light display is
arranged to
achieve optimum outputs, including image uniformity, resolution, colour
accuracy, pixel
CA 02948112 2016-11-10
fill-ratio, chromatic aberration, contrast considerations, lack of visual
artefacts, as well as
other outputs.
In this manner the present invention differs from other prior art light
displays that
incorporate blocking elements. An example of such a prior art light display is
a stop light
that incorporates light elements having blocking elements positioned in
proximity
thereto. Such prior art merely utilizes blocking elements to block light from
a light in a
particular direction. This blocking is insular and related to the blocking
element blocking
light from a single light. Generally, such prior art further does not display
images, such as
advertising images. In particular, the prior art does not achieve the output
of an image of
high quality and resolution directed towards a target audience, as is achieved
by
embodiments of the present invention. Therefore, as discussed herein, the
configuration
of the LED diodes and louvers of the present invention, and the output
thereof, differ
significantly from the prior art.
The method, computer software, and the system of the present invention are
operable to
achieve planning and approval-seeking in advance of deploying any LED light
display.
The planning can involve determining the options as to the direction(s) in
which light
may be emitted from the LED light display in accordance with the position of
the LED
light display and the configuration of the louvers within the LED light
display. This
planning can assist an operator of an LED light display to determine where and
how to
position the LED light display in relation to a target and to areas sensitive
to light
trespass, as well as how to configure the louvers within the LED light
display. The result
is a LED light display that is configured and positioned to achieve site-
specific objectives
for the direction of light from an LED light display towards a target and to
eliminate or
diminish light emission in the direction of areas, including areas sensitive
to light
trespass.
The louvers of the present invention may be configured to incorporate blocking
elements
that restrict the emission of light from a LED diode. These blocking elements
can
eliminate or diminish the LED module output in unwanted directions for
reduction of
light trespass.
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The computer software and system of the present invention may incorporate
modelling
tools. The modelling tools may be applied to planning an installation site for
an LED
light display, prior to the production of the LED light display and/or prior
to the
installation of the LED light display. The modelling tool can assist an
installer and/or
operator of a LED light display to determine the scope of the emission of
light from a
LED light display situated in a particular position that incorporates specific
types of
louvers, as well as the areas where light will be blocked from emission or
where light
transmission would be diminished.
The present invention involves a method for using a specialized blocking
element (i.e., a
louver) that restricts the view angle in a horizontal direction from an LED
lighting
display. The express goal of the present invention, and the incorporation of
louvers in
relation to LED diodes in the LED lighting display, is to remove light output
in specific
directions. A further goal of the present invention is to provide planning
method and a
software/visualization tool to assist a digital display operator in
determining the best
position of a LED lighting display to direct the light emission from the
display thereof to
the intended audience and to visualize this to the operator such that the LED
light display
unit shown can be rotated by degrees by the user to show the effect of such
positioning of
the LED light display that will occur at a specific installation location.
As each installation location may have specific features that will affect the
positioning of
a LED light display, the computer software and system allows for modelling of
the
installation location and various possible positions of the LED light display
therein. In
particular the location of the LED light display and the position of the LED
light display
in that location can be modeled. For example, the LED light display can be
positioned to
various angles at a particular location in the modeling process. As another
example, the
configuration of the combination of LED diodes and louvers within the LED
light display
can be modeled, and this can include pixel arrangement as well as louver
configuration
(i.e., different types of louvers will have different effects therefore the
configuration of
the LED light display to incorporate a particular type of louver can affect
the LED light
display function and effect upon the target viewing area and surrounding
areas). The goal
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is to achieve maximum forward viewing image quality and scope for the target
viewing
audience, as well as minimal light trespass into light sensitive areas.
The modelling allows for a determination as to the expected the light
emission,
diminished emission and/or blocked emission as will be experienced by members
of a
target audience or other inhabitants or elements at selectable locations in
the vicinity of
the potential installation site of a LED light display. Generally, the best or
preferred
installation site and best or preferred installation position for the LED
light display will
achieve the goals of the display, for example, such as making the LED light
display
visible to the widest amount of the target audience without affecting image
quality, while
diminishing or blocking light emission to certain areas, including light
trespass sensitive
areas. Tools in the software enable estimates of the final light impact in the
sensitive
areas.
In one embodiment of the present invention, the louver may incorporate fins
configured
to achieve a view angle restriction. For example, such a fin may be a blocking
fin
positioned immediately horizontally adjacent to a LED diode in the LED light
display. As
another example, the blocking element may also comprise a fin, ridge, cup, or
physical
louver parts thereof configured to achieve a view angle restriction via
physical blocking.
The louver and any view angle restriction elements will be configured so as to
not, or to
not substantially, block light output in a forward direction from the LED
diode. The
louver and any view angle restriction element configured therein will be
positioned and
designed to preserve a range of angles at which the LED light display may be
viewed by
a member of a target audience (in an area where the target audience is to be
positioned),
this is referred to as the "optimal viewing region". Outside of the optimal
viewing region
the louvers, and any view angle restriction element configured therein, will
begin to
obstruct light off to the side of the LED diode. The percentage of the light
observable
from the LED diode diminishes as the LED diode within the LED light display is
increasingly covered by the blocking element when the LED light display is
viewed from
angles outside of the target viewing area and the optimal viewing region.
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The target viewing area will be the area where the most members of the target
viewing
audience are expected to be located and the target audience will view the LED
light
display at a minimal viewing angle. The boundaries and scope of this area will
depend on
the LED light display configuration, the determined target audience area and
aspects of
the installation site. For example, a member of the target audience viewing
the LED light
display from a position that is directly in front of the LED light display
will have a
viewing angle that is 0 degrees or slightly more than 0 degrees. A target
audience may
also view the LED light display for a position that is off center in either a
left or right
direction. The exact range of viewing angles that will be within the optimal
viewing
region will depend on the LED light display configuration, the determined
target
audience area and aspects of the installation site. Therefore, the target
viewing area, the
optimal viewing region and the range of viewing angles within the optimal
viewing
region may differ for various LED light displays.
As a person views the LED light display and as the view angle is increased,
due to the
louvers there is a gradual reduction of the light level across the entire LED
light display.
This is a combination of effects of increasing blockage of individual LED
elements, but
also due to the differences in view angles with respect to different areas on
the display.
As the view angle from the center increases the light emission may still occur
and be
visible, but less emission will occur and be visible than occurs and is
visible within the
optimal viewing region, and furthermore the image is made non-uniform. This
range of
viewing angles is referred to herein as the "transition region". The LED light
display will
not be as clearly visible in the transition region as it is in the optimal
viewing region. For
example, in the transition region, information displayed on the LED light
display may
become non-uniform, full of visual artefacts and not representative of the
intended
creative content of the image. Therefore, due to the degraded visual quality
of the
display, this region is to be avoided such that the normal target audience,
for example
those driving on a highway, do not, or only minimally, pass through this
region. The light
emission will increasingly diminish as a viewer moves within the transition
region from a
position that is closer to the optimal viewing region to a position that is
farther away from
the optimal viewing region. The exact range of viewing angles that will be
within the
transition region will depend on the LED light display louver configuration.
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At a wide enough horizontal angle, and outside of the edge of the transition
region that is
farthest away from the optimal viewing region, extremely weak or no light
emission from
the LED light display will occur and be visible. This is known as the "light
trespass
region". In the light trespass region the LED light display light emission
will be only
vaguely visible or will not be visible, and therefore any content of the LED
light display
will only be weakly visible or will not be visible and generally not
discernable. As an
example, in one installation site the light trespass region may occur at 30
degrees off
center of the LED light display. A skilled reader will recognize that the
angles from the
center of the LED light display that exist within the light trespass region
will depend on
the LED light display louver configuration. In the light trespass region the
majority of the
LED diode is shielded by the blocking element and the light output (i.e.,
light emission)
is reduced drastically and in some instance eliminated outright. As an
example, in one
tested embodiment of the present invention, this reduction is greater than
ninety-nine
percent (>99%) with some light leakage remaining due to a side reflection
(indirect path)
off the next adjacent blocking element. The range of angles within the light
trespass
region will vary for LED light displays and will depend upon aspects of the
LED light
displays (i.e., aspects of the configuration of the LED light displays) such
as pixel
pattern, pixel spacing, blocking element material, blocking element
configuration, and
design, as well as aspects of the installation site, such as sun direction,
topographical
features, structures, natural elements, etc.
Embodiments of the present invention may provide computer software operable on
the
system of the present invention to provide visualization tools to aid the LED
light display
operator in evaluating: (a) whether a LED light display incorporating the
louvers to block
and diminish light emission in the particular directions from an LED diode is
viable for a
specific installation site: (b) the proper degree of rotation or azimuth
(i.e., positioning) to
achieve quality imaging from the LED light display as perceived by a target
audience in a
target audience area, and light trespass mitigation for light trespass
sensitive areas outside
of the target audience area, (c) output of information relating to the
configuration of
louvers in a LED light display and/or the positioning of a LED light display
in a specific
installation site provided as graphical and/or text format (and such
information may be
presented and submitted to third parties, such as decision-makers, for example
to aid the
CA 02948112 2016-11-10
determination as to whether such an LED light display should be allowed to be
built and
installed at the installation site), and (d) any calculations and
quantifications of any light
maps produced by the method, computer software and/or system relating to (c)
and any
illuminance numbers therein relating to the area of the installation site.
This computer software and system of the present invention may comprise a
variety of
elements and may display the information produced in a variety of formats. For
example,
in one embodiment of the present invention the information produced
incorporates the
following elements: an interactive satellite image or overhead view map of the
area of the
installation site; a diagrammatical representation of the blocking element
"regions" (i.e.,
optimal viewing region, transition region, and light trespass region ¨ shown
as a light
map); controls for positioning and rotating a representation of the LED light
display
within the displayed image or map of the installation site; controls for other
parameters
relating to the LED light display configuration within the installation site,
such as active
display size and luminance settings; and parameters relating to output
estimations.
Collectively the elements that comprise the computer software and system of
the present
invention provide tools whereby a particular installation site may be depicted
to a user,
such as on a screen of a computing device, that may be any of a laptop, a
desktop
computer, or any mobile device, such as a cell phone, a smart phone, a tablet,
or any
other mobile device. The user may utilize the visualization tools of the
system to position
a representation of a LED light display within the installation site. This
step may involve
the user identifying the target audience and the area where the target
audience is expected
to be located (the target audience area) within the installation site and
positioning the
LED light display to face the target audience. For example, the target
audience may be
identified as drivers on a highway, and a particular stretch of the highway
may be chosen
as the target audience area. The user may position the LED light display to
face the target
audience area. As another example, a target audience may be identified as
persons in the
vicinity of a downtown square or a park, and a particular area within the
downtown
square or the park may be choses as the target audience area. The use may
position the
LED light display to face the target audience area. A skilled reader will
recognize that a
variety of target audiences may be chosen in a variety of different areas.
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A louver configuration of the LED light display may be chosen by the user. The
louver
configuration will determine the portion of the LED diodes in the LED light
display from
which light is blocked by a louver. This chosen louver configuration will
therefore
determine the light emission occurring from the LED light display.
In one embodiment the present invention, the system will process one or more
aspects of
the installation site (e.g., buildings, structures, roadways, trees,
topographical features,
and other aspects) to determine the optimal viewing region, transition region
and light
trespass region based upon the expected light emission from the LED light
display in
accordance with the louver configuration. Other embodiments of the present
invention
may not process any aspects of the installation site to determine the optimal
viewing
region, transition region and light trespass region and may solely base the
identification
of the regions upon the expected light emission from the LED light display in
accordance
with the louver configuration.
If the regions do not correspond with the LED light display requirements, or
the
requirements of the environment surrounding the LED light display, a user may
utilize
the visualization tools to alter the position of the LED light display. For
example, the
visualization tools may be utilized to move the representation of the LED
light display to
a different location within the installation site depiction, or to rotate the
position of the
LED light display (i.e., rotating the LED light display representation to the
right or to the
left from its original position). The visualization tools may further be
utilized to alter the
configuration of the louvers within the LED light display in relation to the
LED diodes
therein. For example, such as configuring the louvers to block more or less of
the light
emission from the diodes, which can be achieved by changing the size and/or
shape of the
louvers, as discussed herein. Upon such alterations of location, position
and/or louver
configuration of a LED light display, the system will produce results that
show the
optimal viewing region, the transition region and the light trespass region
relating to the
new location, position and/or configuration of the louvers of the LED light
display.
As an example, for a LED light display located near a highway, the position
and/or
louver configuration of such LED light display may be required to be set in
accordance
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with optimum viewing of the information (e.g., image) of the display by the
largest
possible target audience of drivers on the highway, while restricting or
diminishing light
trespass to residential community housing, parks or other areas (including
light sensitive
areas) beside the highway. Use of the visualization tools can assist a user to
determine
how the LED light display should be located, configured and positioned within
a
particular installation site to meet the greatest number of the requirements
and optimize
tradeoffs between image viewing (such as viewing of billboard advertising)
value and
minimized local light impact for nearby communities and areas. This can aid a
user in
obtaining approvals needed to install a LED light display in an area that may
have
otherwise not have been obtained. A report can be generated through the
method, system
and/or software, that can be utilized for the purpose of presentation to an
approval body
(such as municipal decision-makers) to provide a visual representation of a
LED light
display installed in a particular area, and to thereby generate an
understanding of the light
impact of such installation by the approval body members.
As another example, a LED light display located in a downtown locale that
incorporates
shopping, business and residential buildings may need to be positioned to
provide
information displayed upon such display clearly to people in an area of the
street, while
simultaneously avoiding light trespass, or diminishing light trespass, for the
residential or
business buildings in the area. Use of the visualization tools can assist a
user to determine
how the LED light display should be located, configured and positioned within
that
particular installation site to meet the greatest number of the requirements
for such LED
light display in the installation site (e.g., information transmission to the
target audience,
and light emission diminishment or blocking for the environment where the
target
audience is not located, etc.).
The present invention may have several embodiments. These embodiments provide
particular benefits over the prior art. The LED light display of the present
invention, and
the method, software and/or system operable to create, locate, configure
and/or position a
LED light display of the present invention, achieve the following outcomes
that the prior
art is incapable of achieving: (i) minimizing light trespass into areas to
address light
trespass requirements of light sensitive areas located near such LED displays;
(ii) and
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addressing the increasing effort by local approval bodies (e.g., governments,
regulatory
organizations, etc.) to regulate and restrict the installations of such LED
displays; (iii)
blocking light emission in directions that require protection, while
preserving the quality
of the information (e.g., image) displayed on the LED light display in the
direction of the
intended audience (e.g., the target audience); (iv) reducing light trespass in
the horizontal
directions in LED light displays, while simultaneously achieving (and not
compromising)
the industry gold standard in optical performance as experienced by the
intended target
audience; (v) functioning with Dual Inline Pin (DIP) oval LEDs; and (vi) not
interfering
with the standard and optimized optical performance of the LED elements in the
LED
light display due to the modification of the light output in the intended
target audience
view direction, and due to the full blocking of direct light output in the
light trespass
direction (i.e., instead of merely reducing it).
As an example, the present invention can address the increasing community
backlash
regarding aesthetics, traffic impacts and light impact or light trespass
caused by prior art
LED light displays. By blocking or diminishing light emission from LED diodes
(and the
LED light display generally) in particular directions and/or at particular
viewing angles,
only the target audience segment located near a LED light display receives the
effects of
the direct light emission from the LED light display. Therefore, members of
the
community may be near a LED light display, but if they are located in a
transition region
or a light trespass region they will receive either minimal effect or no
effect of light
emission from the LED light display.
Another example of a benefit of the present invention over the prior art is
that existing
prior art outdoor LED light displays, by virtue of their wide angles and their
design goal
of reaching a maximum audience, create significant light trespass as a matter
of course.
Display operators of prior art displays often attempt to reduce the light
trespass by
slightly turning the face of a LED light display away (by, as an example,
approximately
5-30 degrees) from any light sensitive communities. However, this activity is
insufficient
as the Full Width at Half Maximum (FWHM) angle for these displays ranges from
approximately 90 degrees to 110 degrees. The outcome is that only a very small
reduction of light can be achieved by turning the face of the prior art LED
light display
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slightly away from light sensitive communities. In addition, decision-makers
in the
approval process rarely have a full understanding of lighting impact and often
err on the
conservative side (i.e., rejecting applications) as they have no quantifiable
support for a
quantification of light impact generated by a proposed project.
The present invention seeks to solve these problems by use of specially
designed louvers
positioned in relation to LED diodes in the LED light display, and the LED
pixel pattern
of the LED light display. The present invention also acts to solve these
problems through
the application of a method, a system and/or a computer software program
operable to
adjust installation parameters of the displays in situ and to quantitatively
estimate the
light impact thereof in the surrounding environment. These elements of the
present
invention can produce the following outcomes: a) the LED light display is
operable to
render excellent quality images to an audience who are directly facing the LED
light
display, or who are positioned at a minimal angle from the center of the LED
light
display (either to the right or the left of the center), said minimal angle
generally being a
narrow angle; and b) the LED light display reduces the light trespass
significantly (for
example, such as by approximately 99% or a greater percentage) at a side angle
beyond
the minimal angle (e.g., the side angle being either within the transition
region or the light
trespass region) where there may be a light sensitive area or community.
A skilled reader will recognize that embodiments of the present invention
offer other
benefits over the prior art.
The discussion below provides information about some embodiments of the
present
invention. A skilled reader will recognize that this discussion provides
examples of
possible embodiments of the present invention, and that other embodiments of
the present
invention are also possible.
As shown in FIG. 1, each LED diode within a LED light display is connected,
for
example, such as by soldering or another connection, to a printed circuit
board (PCB). As
an example, LED diode lb incorporated within a LED light display will be stood
off from
the PCB 124 via one or more pin standoffs 126. The LED diodes and PCB
constitute the
display unit that is operable to emit light that is visible to a viewer as
information or an
CA 02948112 2016-11-10
image. As discussed herein blocking elements may further be incorporated in
the display
unit.
The display unit may be is connected to one or more supporting elements. When
the LED
light display is installed in an installation site one or more of the
supporting elements
may be in contact with the ground, or a portion of one or more of the
supporting elements
may be embedded in the ground. The supporting elements will support the
display unit in
a position above the ground.
The display unit of the present invention may incorporate blocking elements.
An example
of such blocking elements are shown in FIG. 1. The LED diodes la and lb
further each
have one or more louvers (i.e., blocking elements) positioned in proximity
thereto. For
example, LED diode 1 a has louver 2 positioned proximate thereto and LED diode
lb has
louver 3 positioned proximate thereto. (LED diode 2 has louvers 2 and 3
proximate
thereto.) Louver 2 blocks a portion of the light emission from diode 1 a, and
louver 3
blocks a portion of the light emission from diode lb. Louvers 2 and 3 as shown
are two
possible embodiments of a mechanical blocking element incorporated in a LED
light
display of the present invention. A skilled reader will recognize that other
configurations
of blocking elements are possible, such as semi-circular cups, multi-segmented
louvers,
or blocking elements of any other shape that creates a blocking effect for a
portion of the
light emission from a LED diode positioned proximate to the blocking element.
A variety of types of blocking elements may be incorporated in a LED light
display of an
embodiment of the present invention (as shown in FIG. 3), or a single type of
blocking
element may be incorporated in a LED light display of another embodiment of
the
present invention (as shown in FIG. 1).
FIG. 1, in particular, depicts combinations of LED diodes and corresponding
blocking
elements that result in particular viewing angle regions.
The entire surface of a LED diode emits light since the body of the diode acts
as a lens
that encloses a light emitting diode die. The present invention separates the
forward
viewing arcs from the LED diodes in a LED light display into three distinct
regions. The
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diode optimal viewing region 4 is the region in which there is no obstruction
of any light
emission from any part of the surface of the LED diode 1 a. The diode optimal
viewing
region is a viewing arc that is not affected by the louvers 2 or 3. The
collective area of the
diode optimal viewing regions, for all of the LED diodes of the LED light
display,
represent the optimal viewing region for the LED light display. When the LED
light
display is viewed by a viewer from an angle within the optimal viewing region,
the
highest image, or information, display quality that the LED light display is
capable of
achieving, will be perceived by the viewer.
The diode transition region 5 is an area wherein part of the surface of LED
diode 1 a is
exposed to view. In the diode transition region the light emission from the
LED diode is
partially blocked. As the viewing angle increases within the diode transition
region for
LED diode 1 a, from the greatest angle of the diode optimal viewing region 4
to the
smallest angle of the diode light trespass region 5, the portion of the light
emission from
LED 1 a that is blocked from view increases and the light emission output
reaching the
viewer decreases. Collectively the diode transition regions of all of the LED
diodes of the
LED light display represent that transition region for the LED light display.
The transition region should be minimized in the design of LED light display
of
embodiments of the present invention. The reason for this goal is twofold: (a)
because the
image quality produced to be viewed by a viewer in the transition region is
insufficient
for clear viewing, and (b) the transition region is not protected fully from
unwanted light
trespass. In relation to (a), the target audience for a LED light display will
not be able to
clearly view the information provided on the display from a position within
the transition
region. The clarity and quality of the display information, which is not
optimal anywhere
in the transition region, will decrease as the viewer moves within the
transition region
away from the optimal viewing region and towards the light trespass region.
The method,
system and/or computer program of the present invention may be operable to
address the
goal of minimizing the size and range of angles within the transition region
by aiding the
user to select application parameters for the configuration and position of
the LED light
display within an installation site to best produce a transition region that
is as small as
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possible, or positioned such that neither the target audience nor the
protected audience are
located in the region.
The LED diode light trespass region 6 is a viewing arc in which all of the
possible direct
lines of sight to the LED diode la are covered by the louver 2. This region is
a protected
region, wherein protection is provided from light trespass. In particular, the
protected
region is advantageous to light sensitive persons or structures in the
vicinity of the LED
light display, as light emission from LED diode la is blocked from reaching
the diode
light trespass region. Collectively the diode light trespass regions for all
LED diodes in
the LED light display constitute the light trespass region for the LED light
display.
Within the light trespass region light emission from the LED light display
will be
diminished or eradicated. (Within portions of the light trespass region that
are closest to
the transition region the light emission from the LED light display may be
diminished. As
a viewer moves farther away from the LED light display within the transition
region the
light emission may be eradicated.) The limitation that prevents eradication is
that indirect
reflections may occur on the adjacent louver.
As shown in FIGs 2a-2c, the portion of the LED light display that is visible,
and the
amount of light that is emitted towards a viewer of the LED light display
alters based on
the position of the viewer in relation to the LED light display. For example,
as shown in
FIG. 2a, if the viewer is directly in front of the LED light display 50 (i.e.,
positioned at an
approximately 0 degree angle to the LED light display), the information
displayed on the
display will be clearly visible and full light emission will be directed
towards the viewer.
The viewer is in the optimal viewing region in this example.
As yet another example, as shown in FIG. 2b, if the viewer is viewing the LED
light
display 50 from an angle from the center of the display that is sufficient for
at least a
portion of the light emission of the LED diodes to fail to reach the viewer
(i.e., positioned
at an approximately 20-30 degree angle from the center of the LED light
display), the
information displayed on the display is not clearly visible to the viewer. At
such a
position a portion of the light emission from the LED diodes is blocked from
the viewer's
view by blocking elements, each blocking element being positioned proximate to
at least
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one LED diode. Therefore, only a portion of the light emission from the LED
diodes
reaches the viewer. The viewer is within the transition region in this
example.
As yet another example, as shown in FIG. 2c, if the viewer is viewing the LED
light
display 50 from an angle from the center of the display that is sufficient for
possibly no
light emission of the LED diodes or minimal light emission to reach the viewer
(i.e.,
positioned at an angle that is approximately greater than 30 degrees from the
center of the
LED light display), the information displayed on the display may not be
visible to the
viewer. At such a position of the viewer the light emission from the LED
diodes may be
fully or near-fully blocked by blocking elements, each blocking element being
positioned
proximate to at least one LED diode. It is possible that some reflected light
emission may
reach the viewer at this angle. The viewer is within the light trespass region
in this
example.
The surface of a LED light display will incorporate an array of individual LED
diodes
and associated blocking elements. In such a configuration, some reflection of
light will
inevitably occur. An example of such reflection of light is shown in FIG. 3,
wherein
reflection 7 occurs whereby at least a portion of the light emitted from a LED
diode la is
directed to louver 3 and is reflected off louver 3 to the eye 8 of a viewer of
the LED light
display. The viewer may be within the diode light trespass region relating to
LED diode
la. The result is that even though light emitted from LED diode la is blocked
from
reaching the light trespass region 6 (in particular the light emitted in the
direction of
louver 2 is so blocked), some of the light emitted from LED diode 1 a in the
direction of
louver 3 is reflected off of louver 3 into the light trespass region. This
limits the ultimate
light trespass reduction to approximately 99% within areas of the light
trespass region
where such reflected light emission reaches.
Therefore, as discussed herein, light emission may not be fully eradicated
within all areas
within the light trespass region, due to the fact that although light emission
directly
directed towards the light trespass region may be blocked by a louver, some
reflected
light emission may reach areas of the light trespass region. However, as only
reflected
light emission from a portion of the LED diode may reach the light trespass
region, the
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light emission experienced in the light trespass region is significantly
diminished, so as to
be nearly eradicated, as compared to the light emission occurring in the same
area
proximate to a prior art system. This is because the prior art system does not
include any
blocking element to block any light emitted from the LED diodes of a LED light
display
from reaching any region in relation to the LED light display, as may occur
due to direct
light emission and/or due to scattering of light caused by airborne particles
or moisture
such as fog. Thus, FIG. 3, in particular, shows the combination of LED diodes
and
corresponding blocking elements, and the effects thereof upon reflections,
that have one
form of blocking performance.
Embodiments of the present invention may incorporate louvers that are
reflection
minimization louvers. A reflection minimization louver may be configured to
block light
emission from a portion of a LED diode and to also block the majority of the
reflection of
light emission that may occur off of a portion of a louver. A reflection
minimization
louver may affect the light emission from multiple LED diodes. For example, a
reflection
minimization louver may block light emission from a portion of a first LED
diode and
block the majority of the reflection of light emission from a second LED
diode. Without
such blocking the reflection of light emission from the second LED diode could
otherwise be emitted to a viewer from the reflection of light from a LED diode
off of a
portion of the reflection minimization louver.
An example of a reflection minimization louver is shown in FIG. 4. A
reflection
minimization louver 14 may be positioned between and proximate to two LED
diodes
12a and 12b. The reflection minimization louver may incorporate a light
emission
blocking arm 15 that is operable to block a portion of the light emitted from
LED diode
12b. The reflection minimization louver may further incorporate an arm 16
proximate to
LED diode 12a that incorporates a reflection blocking flange 9 that is
configured to be
angled in relation to the arm 16 and the LED diode 12a. The angle of the
reflection
blocking flange is configured to minimize the amount of reflection 11 of light
emitted
from LED diode 12a off of the arm 16 or off of the reflection blocking flange
9. The
reflection blocking flange is further configured to block light that would
otherwise reflect
off of the light emission blocking arm, as is shown as blocked reflected light
path 17.
CA 02948112 2016-11-10
The light emission blocking arm 15b of a reflection minimization louver 14b
may further
be configured so as to block reflected light 11 that is reflected off of the
reflection
blocking flange 9 of another reflection minimization louver 14a. The light
emission
blocking arm thus blocks the reflected light 11 that would otherwise be
viewable by a
viewer 13 who is within the light trespass region, as is shown by blocked
viewable
reflected light path 19. Therefore, the configuration of a reflection
minimization louver
can be designed to block light emitted directly from a LED diode proximate to
the
reflection blocking flange, as well as to block light reflected from the
reflection blocking
flange of another reflection minimization louver.
Arm 16 and light emission blocking arm 15a of a reflection minimization louver
may be
attached by a connection section 21. A skilled reader will recognize that the
connection
section may be of any size and configuration, such as a point of intersection
of the arms
within a U-shaped or V-shaped connection, a straight section extending between
the arm
and the light emission blocking arm, or any other type of size and
configuration that
connects the arm to the light emission blocking arm. In some embodiments of
the present
invention, a reflection minimization louver may be configured to minimize the
amount of
light that is emitted from a LED diode and reflected off a portion of a louver
that is
visible to a viewer within the transition region.
The reflection blocking flange of a reflection minimization louver and its
configuration is
a key feature of some embodiments of the present invention. The reflection
blocking
flange acts as a reflection reduction element, and is formed to function by
providing
angled coverage of a portion of a LED diode. The reflection minimization
louver can
minimize the area of reflective surface of the reflection minimization louver
wherefrom
reflections can be reflected and thereby become viewable by a viewer in a
transition
region and/or a light trespass region. Such an area of reflective surface is a
direct
reflection area 10. The reflection minimization louver can further block the
path of light
reflected off of another reflection minimization louver from becoming viewable
by a
viewer in a transition region and/or a light trespass region. Such an area of
the surface of
a reflection minimization louver that blocks such reflected light is a
reflected light area
18.
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The parameters of the design, and the configuration, of a reflection
minimization louver
must balance reflection mitigation and loss of imaging fidelity. The
configuration, design
and/or positioning of a reflection minimization louver within a LED light
display may
cause a portion of the LED diode light emission to be blocked from being
viewed by
viewers within the optimal viewing region.
In embodiments of the present invention that incorporate any form of blocking
element,
from a position that is directly in front of a LED diode, the emission of
light and
distribution of such emitted light from the LED diode originates primarily
from the center
of the surface of the LED diode, and not from the periphery of the surface of
the LED
diode. Most LED diodes, especially those in a Dual Inline Pin (DIP) package
(such as is
popular for outdoor applications), have a LED body that acts as a lens so that
light
originates primarily from the center of the lens and not from the periphery of
the lens.
Therefore, partial cover of the peripheral surface of the LED diode caused by
the
reflection block flange may not significantly reduce the forward light output,
though it
can effectively shrink the optimum viewing region. Embodiments of the present
invention can incorporate DIPs, whereas other embodiments of the present
invention may
not incorporate DIPs.
Generally, reflection minimization louvers may be incorporated in a LED light
display to
minimize viewable reflection of light emitted from a LED diode off of a
portion of a
louver, and further to improve the light trespass region blocking performance.
With
reflection minimization in place, the blocking performance exceeds performance
of a
prior art LED display that does not have any blocking elements or other forms
of
blockers, for example. Embodiments of the present invention can achieve a
blocking
performance of up to a magnitude of, or exceeding 99.9%, in the light trespass
region.
The result is that embodiments of the present invention can fully or near-
fully remove all
visibility of the information presented on the LED light display.
The capability of the present invention to block light in the light trespass
region offers
benefits over the prior art. As one example, at a railway right of way it may
be a
requirement that the LED light display be unable to present information in the
direction
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of the train tracks that could be mistaken for railway signaling lights by a
train conductor.
A prior art LED light display positioned near a railway right of way that does
not
incorporate the blocking louvers and/or the reflection minimization louvers of
embodiments of the present invention may emit a faint image in the light
trespass region
(in the direction of the railway track), and therefore may not meet the
requirements for a
LED light display near a railway right of way. An embodiment of the present
invention
may be configured such that the LED light display may incorporate a
combination of
louvers and reflection minimization louvers.
A skilled reader will recognize that an embodiment of the present invention
may further
incorporate solely blocking elements that are not reflection minimization
louvers, or may
incorporate only blocking elements that are reflection minimization louvers,
or a
combination of multiple types of blocking elements. A skilled reader will
recognize that
another embodiment of the present invention may incorporate solely reflection
minimization louvers and not include louvers.
A variety of layouts and configurations of blocking elements and LED diodes
are
possible in embodiments of the present invention. Such layouts and
configurations
represent LED pixel layout patterns. The one or more layouts and
configurations of LED
pixel layout patterns incorporated in a LED light display may be chosen based
upon the
optimality thereof for use with the present invention, in accordance with the
goals and
requirements of embodiments of the present invention. Such goals and
requirements of
embodiments of the present invention may be related to aspects of the
installation site
where the LED light display is to be located, and other aspects relating to
the target
audience, and any light sensitivities of structures, people or areas in the
installation site,
as discussed herein.
Within a full color LED light display, multiple primary color LED diodes or
multiple dies
within one single LED diode may be combined in each pixel to render the full
color
spectrum. There are many design considerations dictating the LED light display
pixel
layout to be incorporated in a LED light display. LED light display pixel
layouts can
trade off various visual qualities. The blocking louver implications of pixel
layouts are
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discussed below, although there are other qualities and design considerations
relating to
pixel layouts that may also be considered when choosing a pixel layout (or
multiple pixel
layouts) to be incorporated in a LED light display.
Some examples of possible layouts and configurations of blocking elements and
LED
diodes that may be incorporated in LED light displays of embodiments of the
present
invention are shown in FIGs 5a-5f. Layouts 5a-5c represent some LED pixel
layouts that
can be used in LED light displays of embodiments of the present invention,
while layouts
5d-5f represent layouts that are optimal for LED light display embodiments of
the present
invention. A skilled reader will recognize that other layouts and
configurations are also
possible for embodiments of the present invention. A skilled reader will also
recognize
that combinations of two or more of the layouts and configurations shown as
patterns in
FIGs 5a-5f can be included in a single LED light display, or a single pattern
can be
included in a LED light display.
A pixel layout pattern may comprise multiple LED diodes and blocking elements
arranged in particular positions in relation to each other. Example patterns
are shown in
FIGs 5a-5f. Generally, FIGs. 5a shows a pixel layout pattern incorporating
blocking
elements to the left of a LED diode, and such blocking element may further
possibly be
to the right of another LED diode. FIGs 5b-5c each show a pixel layout pattern
incorporating blocking elements to the left of a LED diode, and such blocking
element
may further possibly be to the right of another LED diode. Thus, FIGs 5b-5c
show
asymmetric blocking for left side of a LED diode, and possibly to the right
side of
another LED diode. FIGs. 5d-5f each show an optimized pixel layout pattern
incorporating blocking elements.
As shown in FIG. 5a, a group of six LED diodes 20a-20f and corresponding
blocking
elements 22a-22f, respectively, may be arranged in a first arrangement pattern
24.
Multiple repeats of the pattern shown in FIG. 4a may be incorporated in a LED
light
display. The pattern specifically incorporates two blocking elements 22a and
22b each
being positioned to the left side of a LED diode 20a and 20b, respectively,
and a single
blocking element 22c being positioned to the left side of a LED diode 22c,
said blocking
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CA 02948112 2016-11-10
element 22c and LED diode 20c being positioned directly below the LED diode
22a and
blocking element 22b, and LED diodes 20a and 20b configured to be centered in
relation
to said upper configuration (the "upper FIG. 5a grouping"). A grouping of
blocking
elements 22d-22f are positioned in relation to LED diodes 20d-20f,
respectively, and this
grouping (the "lower FIG. 5a grouping") is positioned directly below the upper
FIG. 5a
grouping. The position of the blocking elements and LED diodes in the lower
FIG. 5a
grouping are inverted from that shown in the upper FIG. 5a grouping, such that
the
blocking elements 22d-22f are positioned to the right side of the LED diodes
20d-20f.
The pattern shown in FIG. 5a may not be optimal for some embodiments of the
present
invention due to the positioning of the blocking elements. Namely, the middle
blocking
element 22c may: (a) unnecessarily restrict the viewing angle of the adjacent
LED; and
(b) create a relatively high reflection. The net result is that one color in
the LED light
display will have a narrower view angle than other colours, and simultaneously
will not
be properly blocked in the light trespass region.
Another example pixel layout pattern is shown in FIG. 5b that is vertically
asymmetric.
This example incorporates a group of six LED diodes 20a-20f and corresponding
blocking elements 22a-22f, respectively, arranged in a first vertical
arrangement pattern.
Multiple repeats of the pattern shown in FIG. 5b may be incorporated in a LED
light
display. Blocking element 22a is positioned to the left side of LED diode 20a.
Blocking
element 22b is positioned directly below LED diode 20a, and blocking element
22b is
positioned to the left side of LED diode 20b. LED diode 20c is positioned
directly below
blocking element 22b and blocking element 22c is to the left side of the LED
diode 20c.
The arrangement of the LED diodes 20a-20c in relation to blocking elements 22a-
22c is
the "upper FIG. 5b grouping". A grouping of blocking elements 22d-22f are
positioned in
relation to LED diodes 20d-20f, respectively, and this grouping (the "lower
FIG. 5b
grouping") is positioned directly below the upper FIG. 5b grouping. The
position of the
blocking elements and LED diodes in the lower FIG. 5b grouping are inverted
from that
shown in the upper FIG. 5a grouping, such that the blocking elements 22d-22f
are
positioned to the right side of the LED diodes 20d-20f. However, LED diode 20e
is
CA 02948112 2016-11-10
positioned to be directly below blocking element 22d and directly above
blocking
element 22f.
The pixel layout pattern shown in FIG. 5b is arranged such that left and right
blocking
has different properties, and may produce a lower image quality when the
digital display
is viewed from a downward or upward angle, owing to the interference of
blocking
louvers immediately below the LED diodes.
Another example pixel layout pattern is shown in FIG. 5c that is vertically
asymmetric.
This example is a group of six LED diodes 20a-20f and corresponding blocking
elements
22a-22f, each combination of blocking element and diode is positioned exactly
opposite
to the pattern shown in FIG. 5b to form a second vertical arrangement pattern.
Multiple
repeats of the pattern shown in FIG. Sc may be incorporated in a LED light
display. The
pattern shown in FIG. Sc may be preferable for some embodiments of the present
invention over the pattern shown in FIG. 5b, but the pattern of FIG. Sc may
not be
optimal for some embodiments of the present invention.
Another example pixel layout pattern is shown in FIG. 5d that is vertically
symmetric.
This example pattern incorporates a group of three LED diodes 20a-20c and
corresponding blocking elements 22a-22c, respectively. Each blocking element
is
positioned to the left side of the LED diode and blocking element 22a and LED
diode 20a
are positioned above blocking element 22b and LED diode 20b. Blocking element
22c
and LED diode 20c are positioned directly below blocking element 22b and LED
diode
20b. All of the LED diodes are vertically arranged and all of the blocking
elements are
vertically aligned, to form a third vertical arrangement pattern. Multiple
repeats of the
pattern shown in FIG. 5d may be incorporated in a LED light display.
Another example pixel layout pattern is shown in FIG. 5e that is vertically
asymmetric.
This example pattern incorporates a group of four LED diodes 20a-20d and
corresponding blocking elements 22a-22d, respectively. Each blocking element
is
positioned to the left side of the LED diode, and blocking element 22a and LED
diode
20a are positioned above blocking elements 22b-22c and LED diodes 20b-20c that
are
positioned side-by-side. The combination of blocking element 22a and LED diode
20a
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CA 02948112 2016-11-10
are centered above the combination of blocking elements 22b-22c and LED diodes
20b-
20c. Blocking element 22d and LED diode 20d are positioned below blocking
elements
22b-22c and LED diodes 20b-20c, in vertical alignment with blocking element
22a and
LED diode 20a. The entire pattern in FIG. Sc may be mirrored horizontally to
provide
blocking in the opposite direction. This arrangement forms a second
arrangement pattern.
Multiple repeats of the pattern shown in FIG. 5e may be incorporated in a LED
light
display.
Another example pixel layout pattern is shown in FIG. 5f that is vertically
symmetric.
This example pattern incorporates a group of four LED diodes 20a-20d and
corresponding blocking elements 22a-22d, respectively. Each blocking element
is
positioned to the left side of the LED diode, and blocking elements 22a-22b
and LED
diodes 20a-20b are positioned beside each other. Directly below blocking
elements 22c-
22d and LED diodes 20c-20d are positioned beside each other such that blocking
elements 20a-2b are vertically aligned with blocking elements 20c-20d,
respectively, and
LED diodes 20a-20b are vertically aligned with LED diodes 20c-20d,
respectively. The
entire pattern in FIG. 5f may be mirrored horizontally to provide blocking in
the opposite
direction. This arrangement forms a fourth vertical arrangement pattern.
Multiple repeats
of the pattern shown in FIG. 5f may be incorporated in a LED light display.
The patterns shown in FIGs 5d-5f are considered optimized patterns for
blocking louver
application in some embodiments of the present invention. The patterns shown
in FIGs
5d-5f may share the following properties: (a) horizontal symmetry; (b)
minimized
interference between blocking elements and LED diodes for which it is not the
main
blocker; and (c) identical placement of one or more blocking elements in
relation to each
individual LED diode.
Any one of, or a collection of, the patterns shown in FIGs 5a-5f can be
incorporated in
embodiments of the present invention. Each pattern incorporated in embodiments
of the
present invention may include blocking elements of different shapes and forms.
As one
example, a blocking element may be shaped and formed as a rounded cup shape.
The
shape and form of a blocking elements is configured to provide mechanical
blocking of
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individual LED diodes to achieve control light trespass from a LED diode, and
a multiple
blocking elements and LED diodes can control light trespass from an LED light
display
generally.
Embodiments of the present invention may further incorporate a method that may
be
performed by a system and/or computer program, operable to aid LED light
display
operators and designers in planning, analyzing and presenting the lighting
impact of a
LED light display with respect to an area surrounding said LED light display
within an
installation site. As discussed herein, LED light display may be of various
forms and
types, including a digital billboard, a digital installation, or other LED
displays.
As shown in FIG. 6 a system of an embodiment of the present invention may
incorporate
a storage element 40 operable to communicate bi-directionally with a computing
device
46. The storage element may be a server, a cloud server, a hard drive, memory
incorporated in a computing device, or any other one or more elements operable
to store
method instructions and/or information, for example, such as computer program
instructions and/or information. The computing device may be any of a laptop,
a desktop
computer, or any mobile device, such as a cell phone, a smart phone, a tablet,
or any
other mobile device. The computing device may incorporate a display and an
input
element or may be connected (through hardwiring or a wireless connection) to
the display
and the input element. The user may utilize the input element 48 to provide
information
to the computing device. The input element may be a keyboard, a touchscreen, a
voice
command processor, or any other type of input element whereby a user can input
information to be provided to the computing device and utilized by the
processor therein
in accordance with the method (such as may be provided as computer program
instructions).
The method steps, commands, operations and/or instructions, that may be in the
form of a
computer program, may be stored on one of the one or more the storage elements
and be
processed such that the steps, commands, operations and/or instructions of the
method
may be executed by the computing device by at least one processor (e.g.,
central
processing unit, microprocessor, etc.) incorporated in the computing the
device. The
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CA 02948112 2016-11-10
processor is operable to recognize the method steps, commands, operation
and/or
instructions and to implement the functions and execute the method steps,
commands,
operation and/or instructions.
The one or more storage elements are connected to the computing device, and
the
processor accesses information stored in the one or more storage elements and
the store
information in the one or more storage elements in accordance with the
computer
program commands (that relate to the method).
The computing device may generate information or reports in accordance with
the
method. The information and/or reports can be transferred from the computing
device to
a computer system 120 of a third party either directly or via an Internet
connection 122.
The computer system of the third party may be a computing device, a server, a
networked
computer system, or any other form of computer system, including a cloud based
computer system.
As an example, a report that is in a form that provides information regarding
the
suggested location, positioning and configuration for a proposed LED light
display, may
be transferred either directly or via an Internet connection to a regulatory
body, such as a
municipal authority, or another organization, for review and approval. The
computer
system of the present invention may be operable to prepare the form in the
format
required by such third party regulatory body. A skilled reader will recognize
that there
are many other reasons why information or report(s) may be generated by the
computer
system and transferred to a third party and that embodiments of the present
invention may
be operable to support such information and/or report(s).
Any approval or information relating to the information or report received may
be
transferred from the third party computer system 120 to the computing device
42 or the
server 40 of the present invention via an Internet connection, or directly.
The information
received may be utilized by the user of the computing device and/or the
computer
program. For example, received information may be acceptance of the form sent
to a
regulatory body, or information about further adjustments to the location,
position and/or
configuration of the LED lighting display that are required by the regulatory
body. A
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CA 02948112 2016-11-10
skilled reader will recognize the variety of types of information that may be
transferred
by a third party to either the computing device and/or the server of the
present invention,
either directly or via an Internet connection.
A skilled reader will further recognize that the computing device 42 may be
operable
with cloud storage, such that the server 40 may be accessed by the computing
device via
a cloud-based connection.
A skilled reader will recognize that there are a variety of possible steps
that may be
incorporated in the method of the present invention (that may be implemented
by
processing of a computer program, or the function of the system of the present
invention).
One example of a set of steps that may comprise the method of the present
invention (and
as may be performed by a computer program and/or utilized by the system) is
shown at
FIG. 7. In accordance with this example, a user of the system may login to a
computer
program, as shown as step 80. For example, the user may login to the computer
program,
and the computer system whereby the computer program operability is
accessible, by
providing login information that is reviewed against stored login records to
confirm the
authorization of the user to login to the computer program. Alternatively, a
user may not
be required to login to the computer program prior to utilizing the computer
program.
As shown at step 82, a user may enter a GPS location coordinate or an address
of a
location (e.g., latitude and longitude, or a physical address), to indicate
where the LED
light display unit is to be located. The GPS coordinates or the location
address provided
to the system by a user will indicate the pinpoint location of the LED light
display unit. A
map of the location surrounding the provided coordinates or location address
will be
shown to the user on the display of the computing device whereby the user is
accessing
and utilizing the system. The scale of the map shown to the user may be set by
the user,
and in some embodiments of the present invention the user may zoom in or zoom
out on
the map to show less or more of the area surrounding the coordinates or
location address
provided to the system. The LED light display unit will be shown as located
within the
map at the location of the coordinates or the location address.
CA 02948112 2016-11-10
As shown in step 84 a user may be required to indicate whether the location of
the LED
light display unit within the map is correct. If the user indicates that the
location of the
LED light display unit within the map is not correct the location of the LED
light display
unit within the map may be altered at step 86. For example, the LED light
display unit
may be relocated by the user within the map to a new location (e.g., for
example, by the
user dragging the LED light display unit to a new location within the map, or
the user
indicating another coordinate or another location address), or the LED light
display unit
may be repositioned by the user within the map to a new position (e.g., for
example, by
the user rotating or otherwise altering the position of the LED light display
unit at the
location indicated by the coordinates or location address provided by the user
to the
system).
If the LED light display unit is repositioned or relocated within the map,
step 84 will be
repeated. Steps 84 and 86 may be repeated until the user indicates at step 84
that the LED
light display unit is correctly located at step 84. Upon the instance that the
user indicates
that the LED light display unit is correctly located at step 84, the system
will proceed to
step 88. At step 88 the system will undertake a review to determine if the
parameters
relating to the LED light display unit are entered. If the parameters are
entered and this is
verified by the system (e.g., verification that all required parameters are
entered and/or
that parameters entered are within any recognized requirements for a
location), the
system will proceed to step 110.
At step 88, if the system determines that the parameters are not entered, the
user will be
able to input parameters for the configuration of the LED light display unit.
For example,
some examples of input parameters include display model, orientation, night
brightness,
display size (width and length), direction of face (azimuth), the louver
model, and/or
other parameters. Generally such parameters include requirements for
engineering and
building the LED light display. The parameters may be selected by the user
from a list of
parameter options, or may be entered by the user. Moreover, some embodiments
of the
present invention may indicate and require that some parameters must be
provided by a
user for the system to function, whereas some other parameters may be
optionally
provided by a user.
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In some embodiments of the present invention, the system may recognize
specific
requirements for a location, such as bylaw requirements, municipal
requirements, or other
requirements related to signs, lighting and/or LED light displays that may
affect the
position, configuration and/or location of an LED light display within the
coordinates or
location address where the LED light display unit is located and positioned
within the
map by the user. Such embodiments of the present invention may offer
parameters to the
user in accordance with such requirements, or may provide feedback to a user
if a
parameter is provide that is not consistent with such requirements, such as an
indicated
parameter for night brightness that is outside of the parameters for night
brightness that
such requirements permit.
In embodiments of the present invention, system specific prompts for one or
more
particular parameters to be entered by the user may be provided to the user.
For example,
at step 90 a user may be prompted to enter the model, style, shape and/or type
of louver
that is to be incorporated in the LED light display unit. At step 92 a user
may be
prompted to choose an (azimuth) direction of the LED light display unit. At
step 94 a
user may be prompted to enter measurement units for the location of the LED
light
display unit (e.g., width in feet or meters and/or length in feet or meters,
or other units of
measurement).
A user may add observer locations to the map displayed to the user on the
display that is
attached to the computing device that the user is utilizing to access the
system, at step 96.
Alternatively, some embodiments of the present invention may recognize
observer
locations and may automatically show these in the map displayed to the user.
(Examples
of observer locations indicated in a map shown to a user are indicated as
observer
locations 70a and 70b in FIG. 8.) The observer locations indicate areas that
are light
sensitive, or that have other requirements that relate to the positioning of a
LED light
display unit.
If the user does not choose to add observer locations, and there are no
observer locations
already displayed on the map, then the system may return to step 84.
Otherwise, if a user
chooses to add observer locations, the system progresses to step 98.
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At step 98 a user may add an observer location to the map, for example, such
as clicking
on the map, through use of a mouse or a touchscreen, to indicate where an
observer
location should be added to the map. The user may further add an observer
location, or
provide additional information relating to an observer location the user has
added to the
map, by providing information relevant to an observer location, such as the
feet that the
observer location is to be from the LED light display unit, the illuminance
unit of the
illuminance that observer location requires, and the assumed usage information
relating
to the observer location. At step 100 a user may choose to add an additional
observer
location, and steps 98 and 100 may be repeated until a user chooses not to add
any
additional observer locations at step 100.
The system may process the observer locations shown on the map (at step 88 if
observer
locations are included in the map that were not entered by a user and/or at
step 102 if the
user adds one or more observer locations to the map). Such processing of the
system may
generate information relating to the one or more observer locations, including
the
distance of the observer location from the LED light display unit in the map
and the
illuminance unit and assumed usage relating to the display from the LED light
display
unit that will affect the location of the observer location. (As an example, a
measurement
such as foot candles may be utilized to indicate the brightness of any light
from the LED
light display unit that will affect an observer location.) The system and/or
the user may
review the processing results relating to the effect of the LED light display
unit upon the
observer location to determine if such effect is within the requirements of
such observer
location. For example, will the brightness of the light from the LED light
display unit that
will affect the observer location be brighter than the light tolerance of the
observer
location (e.g., determined in relation to the light sensitivity of the
observer location).
A user can choose to delete the location of the LED light display unit from
the map, or
may decide to move the location of the LED light display unit within the map
(in
accordance with the discussion herein regarding relocating the LED light
display unit
within the map). For example, based upon the analysis by the system regarding
the
brightness of the light from the LED light display unit that will reach an
observer location
and the determination by the user and/or the system that such brightness
exceeds the light
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tolerance of the observer location, the user may decide to delete or move the
LED light
display unit within the map.
If the user chooses to delete or move the location of the LED light display
unit within the
map, the deletion or relocation of the LED light display unit will be achieved
at step 104.
If the LED light display unit is deleted from the map the user may choose to
exit the
program, or the user may decide to delete the LED light display unit from the
map and to
enter information to position a new LED light display unit in the map. If the
LED light
display unit is deleted and another LED light display unit is not added to the
map, the
method may process to the end step 112 and exit.
If the user decides to move the LED light display unit in the map, or to
delete the LED
light display unit from the map and add another LED light display unit in the
map, steps
102 and 104 may be repeated until the LED light display unit is positioned
within the
map at a location that the user determines to be acceptable to continue the
method of the
system.
The system will generate location measurements for the LED light display unit
within the
map based upon the location and position of any moved LED light display unit,
or the
location and position of any newly added LED light display unit. At step 106
the system
will review and analyze such location measurements to determine whether such
location
measurements are within any requirements for such measurements that the system
recognizes. Such requirements for measurements may include recognized bylaw,
municipal or other set requirements relating to a community or area upon the
map,
requirements for observer locations (e.g., brightness tolerances, etc.), or
any other
requirements relating to the location measurements. If the processing by the
system
and/or any review by the user indicates that the location measurements are not
within
requirements, then the system proceeds to step 108 and the parameters for the
LED light
display unit, including azimuth, may be reentered or otherwise amended by the
user (such
as in accordance with a process that is the same or similar to the process
discussed for
steps 88-104).
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The system may generate a light map that may be overlaid upon the map display.
The
light map may indicate the areas of light emission to a viewer, such as by
showing the
optimal viewing area, the transition area and the light trespass region in
relation to a LED
light display. Each region may be indicated in a different colour of shading,
by different
fill-in markings, such as lines, stipple, clear, and/or by other markings.
When the light
map is overlaid upon the map, such that the light map is positioned in
relation to the LED
light display unit on the map, and the combination of the map with the light
may
positioned as overlaid thereon is displayed to a user, the three regions are
visible in
relation to the LED light display unit. A depiction of such a display of the
map and the
light map overlay thereupon can be captured in a report that may be provided
to a third
party by the system and/or the user.
Once the processing by the system and/or any review by the user indicates that
the
location measurements are within requirements, then the system proceeds to
step 110.
The system will process the LED light display unit location and position
indicated in the
map, as well as other information related to the location and position of the
LED light
display unit on the map and the effect of the LED light display, as discussed
herein, and
will generate an assessment of such position and location. Output of the
assessment will
be provided at step 110, as a report.
After a report is generated (and potentially transmitted to a third party) the
method may
proceed to the end step 112 and exit the method and/or program.
In some embodiments of the present invention, one or more LED light display
units may
be positioned upon the map and the steps of the method may be performed in
relation to
each LED light display unit. The map may therefore may one or more light maps
overlaid
thereupon, and a user and/or the method can assess the effect of the one or
more LED
light display units upon areas within the map, including light sensitive
areas.
In some embodiments of the present invention the topography or elements such
as
structures, trees or other elements of the location shown in the map may be
displayed to a
user, and in some embodiments of the present invention such topography or
elements
may be taken into consideration in the assessment of the method and/or of the
user.
CA 02948112 2016-11-10
The modifications to the LED light display unit location, configuration and/or
position,
other outputs and/or assessment results of the method may be displayed to the
user and/or
may be provided as a report that can be printed or can be transferred to a
third party. The
report may be in any format and may include various combinations of
information
regarding the location and position of the LED light display unit and the
effect of the
LED light display unit (as discussed herein).
The report may be in a format that can be provided to a stakeholder, such as a
regulatory
authority, an engineer, a LED light display installation manager, or any other
stakeholder.
The report may be provided in a format that is consistent with the layout of a
form
whereby submissions are permitted to be delivered to such stakeholder.
In some embodiments of the present invention, the report may be in the format
of a form
required to request authorization to install a LED light display in the
location,
configuration and position indicated by the user to the system in accordance
with the
method. In such an embodiment, the system may be configured to permit a user
to
transfer the form to the third party that is the authorization body, board or
organization
that must review and approve the form in order for permission to be granted
for an LED
light display to be installed in a particular location and position, upon the
user's approval
for such a transfer. The authorization body may further provide their response
(i.e.,
approval, refusal, comments, etc.) based upon the form to the user via the
system.
The present invention may further incorporate a report that is formatted to
include
information to be provided to a party hired to build a LED light display, such
as the
dimensions of the light display, the pixel arrangement of the light display,
the type of
louvers to be incorporated in the light display and the arrangement thereof in
relation to
LED diode(s), and other information regarding the configuration of the light
display
required to build the light display. Such a report may incorporate a
specification for the
building of a LED light display. This report may be transferred by the system,
upon the
user's approval to a third party who is chosen by a user. The third party may
send a
response to the report to the user via the system.
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A skilled reader will recognize the variety of other types of reports and
responses that
may be generated by the system, sent to a third party by the system, and/or
received from
a third party by the system. The operability of the system to generate reports
that are in
the format required by a third party for specific forms of communication with
such third
party represent a benefit of the present invention as these facilities of the
system save the
user significant time, cost and/or effort in preparing such third party
communication. This
method can further protect the chain of custody of the form as it is
transferred directly to
the third party for review, and as a response thereto is provided directly to
the user by the
system. Additionally method of the present invention can negate the need for a
separate
official statement to be prepared to identify the light impact of a LED light
display that
otherwise is required to be submitted with a LED light display installation
site approval
application.
The system generally provides a benefit to the user over the prior art in that
it allows a
user to simulate, model and plan the location and positioning of a LED light
display and
the effect thereof upon the surrounding area, including light sensitive areas.
The
parameters of the LED light display (e.g., configuration), the location of the
LED light
display, and the positioning of the LED light display can be amended and
otherwise
modified so that multiple configurations of the LED light display, positions
of the LED
light display, and/or locations of the LED light display can be modeled, to
better inform
the planning of the LED light display installation.
FIG. 7 shows a particular method of the system of one embodiment of the
present
invention. A skilled reader will recognize that other embodiments of the
present
invention that incorporate other methods of the system are also possible. A
general
discussion of the possible methods of the system follows.
The user may indicate a location for a LED light display unit to be located to
the system
through the input of elements at an installation site. The system may locate a
graphical
representation of the installation site, such as a satellite view of the
installation site, or an
overhead view map of the installation site. In some instances, the user may
provide to the
system the graphical representation of the installation site to be utilized by
system. The
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user may indicate the intended area where a target audience is expected to be
located,
within the installation site although this step is not necessarily required.
The map or
image displayed to a user of the installation site is herein referenced as an
installation
site, or a representation of the installation site, or an installation site
representation.
The user may indicate to the system the type of LED light display unit that is
to be
utilized by the system and the configuration thereof. For example, the user
may indicate
the dimensions of the LED light display, the pattern of pixels to be
incorporated in the
LED light display, combinations of LED diodes and blocking elements relating
to said
pixels, any use of reflection minimization louvers, and the configuration of
the blocking
elements and/or reflection minimization louvers. The user may further indicate
to the
system other parameters relating to the configuration and design of the LED
light display
that may affect light emission that will reach a viewer at various locations
in the area
surrounding the display, and the position of the display within the
installation site. The
parameters of the LED light display unit, the type of unit, and the other
information
relating to the unit, may be stored in the storage element. A user may select
some of this
information from pre-populated option lists in some embodiments of the present
invention, or may input the information to the system.
The user may indicate the location where the LED light display unit should be
located
within the depiction of the installation site. Once situated in a particular
location the unit
can be positioned in that location, such as by being rotated while in the same
location.
The unit can also be relocated to a different position within the installation
site. For
example, the user may utilize visualization tools to situate in a location,
position, rotate,
relocation and/or reposition the LED light display unit within the depiction
of the
installation site.
Upon a LED light display unit being located and positioned within a depiction
of an
installation site, a user can choose to generate information relating to the
light that will
emit from the display unit of that particular configuration, and in that
particular location
and position. This assessment information will allow a user to determine
whether display
of the information on the LED light display will be adequately provided to the
target
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audience and/or whether light trespass from the LED light display will reach
areas,
including any light sensitive communities. The user will be able to determine
the optimal
or best configuration, location and/or position for the LED light display
within the
installation site based on the assessment information.
There are a variety of possible presentations and displays for the elements of
the system,
including assessment information in embodiments of the present invention. The
presentation may incorporate a satellite image or a diagrammatical map showing
an
installation site. The image or map may be selectable from options provided
upon the
display to a user through user input. The installation site image or map may
represent the
vicinity of a potential site for installation of the LED light display.
The assessment information may be provided as an overlay diagram for the map
or image
(i.e., a light map). The overlay diagram may represent the light trespass
region, the
transition region and the optimal viewing region in relation to the LED light
display unit
configuration, location and position chosen by a user within the
representation of the
installation site (i.e., the map or image). Properties of the overlay may
change
dynamically with the configuration of the LED light display parameters chosen
by a user
and the location and/or position of the light display unit within the
representation of the
installation site.
Information entry and/or selection features may be provided to a user for user
input
relating to the type and parameters of the LED light display unit to be
installed at the
depicted installation site. For example, such entry or selection may be
processed by the
computer program and/or system to configure the LED light display unit
including
parameters such as, light blocking orientation, brightness settings, size, and
display
azimuth (compass) orientation. In embodiments of the present invention the
selection of
such parameters may be restricted to only pre-set types of LED light displays,
and the
selections and entries by a user (i.e., user input) may be reviewed to confirm
they
represent valid or buildable configurations of LED light displays. Other
embodiments of
the present invention may permit a user to provide selections and entries that
represent
any configuration of an LED light display, including a new design for a LED
light
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display. Any selections made may processed by the system to dynamically update
the
overlay diagram and assessment information.
The display and presentation provided to a user may be developed such that it
may be
utilized to setup and view the assessment relating to various locations of
interest within
an installation site. Locations of interest can be selected on the
installation site
representation marked with a location marker (i.e., an observer location or
the marker of
a light sensitive structure or area). In some embodiments of the present
invention the
location marker may be labelled for ease of reference. Location marker
parameters can be
set-up by a user, or may be hardcoded into the computer program. Such
parameters can
include the units of measurement to be used to indicate the measurement of
light at the
location marker or the distance to the location marker from the center of the
LED light
display unit, and analysis assumptions such as the type of displayed image
usage that will
occur at the location marker. Selected marker locations can be populated into
a list that
can dynamically display the analysis measurements, such as distance to center
of the
display and experienced illumination in measurements such as provided as
measurements
of lux or foot candles. Reference conditions may be provided and displayed for
the
purpose of users easily comparing analysis illuminance results to certain
reference levels.
A location marker may indicate a location in the installation site that has
particular
requirements, such as a light sensitivity.
The system can incorporate an output module operable to create reports in
various
formats and including various information relating to the LED light design
unit, the
installation site, and the assessment of a particular positioning of the LED
light design
unit with the rendering of the installation site. A report or a portion
thereof may be sent
by the system directly from the computing device to a recipient, for example,
such as by
SMS, text message, email, or through any other electronic communication method
or
process. For example, a report may be sent to a member of the staff of a
manufacturer of
LED light displays as a step in a review and confirmation process relating to
the design,
manufacture and/or installation of a LED light display. If review of the
report is required
the report can be required to be signed and forwarded to one or more persons,
such as to
the end audience who may include city planners, city council members, by-law
CA 02948112 2016-11-10
enforcement groups, local community advocates, and any other stakeholders in
light
trespass considerations, required to review a proposed installation of a LED
light display
prior to installation. As these reports are often kept on record as part of
legal
requirements for signage permits, provisions such as the manufacturer review
process
may be included in embodiments of the computer program and/or system of the
present
invention to ensure accuracy, review and authenticity of such reports.
The display and presentation of information provided to a user may be similar
to the
screen 66 shown in FIG. 8. The screen may incorporate a configuration section
52 where
information relating to the confirmation of the LED light display unit may be
selected or
inputted by a user. The screen may further incorporate a location section 54
wherein
information relating to assessments of the installation site, such as types of
measurement,
information about any marker locations, and other reference information
relating to the
installation site and the use of the LED light display unit within the
installation site may
be displayed.
The screen may be depicted to show elements within the installation site
depiction, such
as the position of the LED light display unit 68, and one or more location
markers (such
as observer locations 70a, 70b). An overlay section 56 may further depict
information
relating to the assessment information, and may be seamlessly or near-
seamlessly
overlaid upon the installation site depiction. The overlay may include a
forward direction
indicator 58 that shows the forward direction from the display. (The forward
direction
indicator may show a viewer position that is central or near-central to the
display, and
may indicate a zero degree angle, or a near-zero degree angle, from the center
of the
display.)
The overlay section may further show in relation to the LED light display unit
and
aspects of the installation site, a light trespass region indication 64 (i.e.,
a lined area), a
transition region indication 62 (i.e., a dotted area) and an optimal viewing
region
indication 60 (i.e., a clear area within the circle that is otherwise formed
of a combination
of the light trespass region, the transition region and the optimal viewing
region, although
the area of the three regions will not necessarily always be shown as a
circular shape).
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The integration of the overlay section with the installation site depiction
assists a user in
recognizing the scope of areas within an installation site that may be
affected by light
emission, or not affected by light emission, from a specific configured LED
light display
unit.
As shown in FIGs 9a-9b, the position of the block elements within a LED light
display
will determine whether the transition region will be to the left or the right
of the center of
the display. FIGs 9a-9b show an overlay that is not integrated with an
installation site
depiction. As shown in FIG. 9a, if the blocking elements are positioned to the
left of the
LED diode corresponding to the blocking element, such that the blocking
element is
positioned to block light emission from the LED diode that is emitted on the
left side of
the LED diode, then the transition region 62 will exist to the right of the
center of the
front of the display. The center of the display is indicated by a forward
direction indicator
58. The transition region 62 has an optimal viewing region 60 on its side that
is closer to
the center of the display, and a light trespass region on the other side.
As shown in FIG. 9b, if the blocking elements are positioned to the right of
the LED
diode corresponding to the blocking element, such that the blocking element is
positioned
to block light emission from the LED diode that is emitted on the right side
of the LED
diode, then the transition region 62 will exist to the left of the center of
the front of the
display. The center of the display is indicated by a forward direction
indicator 58. The
transition region 62 has an optimal viewing region 60 on its side that is
closer to the
center of the display, and a light trespass region on the other side.
In each of FIGs 9a-9b the light trespass region, and/or areas therein, may
experience
minimal light emission, for example, such as approximately less than 1 percent
of light
emission or brightness from the LED light display.
In an embodiment of the present invention, blocking elements and reflection
minimization louvers maybe incorporated in the LED light display whereby a
transition
region is created on both sides of the LED light display (i.e., to the right
and to the left of
the center of the LED light display). In such an embodiment of the present
invention the
transition regions may be of equal size (i.e., incorporating the same range of
viewing
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angles to the right and to the left of the center of the display) and
equidistant from the
center of the display, or the two transitions regions may be of different
sizes and
positioned at different distances to the left and the right of the center of
the LED light
display.
It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that other variations of
the embodiments
described herein may also be practiced without departing from the scope of the
invention.
Other modifications are therefore possible.
53
