Digital signage and installation methods for digital signage

Abstract

We provide digital signage that does not obstruct pedestrian traffic or visibility, even when installed on the outside of a cylindrical structure. [Solution] The digital signage 10 includes a support part 12 installed to surround the cylinder 103 with a certain distance between it and the outer surface of the cylinder, and a signage unit 14 supported on the support part 12 and installed to surround the cylinder with a certain distance between it and the outer surface of the cylinder. The support part 12 includes a base ring that surrounds the cylinder with a certain distance between it and the outer surface of the cylinder, a plurality of support columns having a predetermined height with their lower ends fixed to the base ring, and a support ring fixed to the upper ends of the plurality of support columns that surrounds the cylinder with a certain distance between it and the outer surface of the cylinder, and the signage unit 14 is installed on the support ring.

Description

Technical Field

[0006] , , ,

[0001] The present invention relates to digital signage and a method for installing digital signage, and more particularly, to digital signage and a method for installing digital signage that are newly installed, for example, on the outer side of a column in a building.

Background Art

[0002] For example, in a station concourse or a department store where a large number of people pass through, in order to ensure visibility and make it difficult to obstruct passage, columns with a circular horizontal cross-section or oval-shaped columns (cylindrical columns) are frequently used instead of square columns.

[0003] On the other hand, in recent years, there has been an increasing trend to install digital signage, which has just started to spread, on existing columns in a retrofitting manner. However, driving bolts or making holes in existing columns not only impairs the appearance but also risks losing the durability of the columns themselves, and any modification to existing columns is not acceptable to the client at all.

[0004] In Patent Document 1, in such a background, a simple digital signage is disclosed in which a rectangular frame is installed so as to surround the outer periphery of an existing column, and liquid crystal monitors are incorporated into each surface of the rectangle in a part in the height direction.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] In the prior art of Patent Document 1, since a rectangular frame is installed on the outer side of the column, there is a problem that the corners of the frame obstruct passage and visibility.

[0007] Therefore, the primary objective of this invention is to provide a novel digital signage system and a method for installing digital signage.

[0008] Another object of this invention is to provide digital signage and a method for installing digital signage that can minimize obstruction to traffic and visibility even when installed on the outside of a cylinder. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] This invention employs the following configuration to solve the above-mentioned problems. The reference numerals and supplementary explanations in parentheses indicate correspondences with embodiments described to aid in understanding this invention and do not limit this invention in any way.

[0010] The first embodiment is a digital signage system installed on the outside of an existing column having a curved outer surface that curves outward in a horizontal cross-section, comprising: a base portion located on the lower outside of the column and curved outward to maintain a certain distance from the curved outer surface; a plurality of support columns, each with its lower end fixed to the upper surface of the base portion; a support base portion located on the upper outside of the column and fixed to the upper ends of each of the plurality of support columns and curved outward to maintain a certain distance from the curved outer surface; a frame supported on the support base portion; and a display provided on the outer surface of the frame.

[0011] In the first embodiment, the digital signage (10: a reference numeral used to illustrate a corresponding part in the embodiment, not intended to limit it; the same applies hereinafter) is mounted on the outside of an existing column having a curved outer surface that curves outward in a horizontal cross-section, such as a cylinder or an elliptical column. The digital signage (10) includes a base portion (16) positioned on the lower outside of the column, which is curved outward to maintain a certain distance from the curved outer surface, and the lower ends of several support columns (20) are fixed to the upper surface of the base portion (16). A support base portion (28) is fixed to the upper end of each of the several support columns (20) and is positioned on the upper outside of the column, which is curved outward to maintain a certain distance from the curved outer surface. A frame, such as the mounting plate 60 in the embodiment, is supported on the support base portion (18), and a display (76) is provided on the outer surface of the frame (60).

[0012] According to the first embodiment, the display (signage section) is supported by a support section that surrounds the outwardly curving circular section (curved section) at a predetermined distance from the outer surface of the curved section, thereby suppressing obstruction of passage or visibility by the support section, i.e., the digital signage.

[0013] The second embodiment is a digital signage system dependent on the first embodiment, wherein the frame is formed to curve outward so as to maintain a constant distance from the curved outer surface.

[0014] In the second embodiment, the frame on which the display is mounted on its outer surface is also curved outward so as to maintain a certain distance from the curved outer surface, thereby further improving the visibility and accessibility of the digital signage.

[0015] The third embodiment is a digital signage system dependent on the second embodiment, wherein the curved outer surface of the column has a semicircular cross-section, and the base portion, a plurality of support columns, and a support base portion are integrated to form a support portion, and the support portion is formed by split support portions connected at at least one point in the circumferential direction of the semicircle.

[0016] In the third embodiment, the support portion (12) consists of an integrated base portion (16), a support column (20), and a support base portion (18), and this support portion (12) is formed as a split support portion (12F, 12R).

[0017] According to the third embodiment, since the support section is made up of split support sections, it is easy to transport the support section to a site with existing columns and to perform on-site construction.

[0018] The fourth embodiment is a digital signage system dependent on the third embodiment, and includes centering adjusters provided on the base portion and support base portion of the split support section, respectively, for adjusting the distance between the curved outer surface and the base portion and support base portion.

[0019] In the fourth embodiment, the base portion (16F, 16R) and the support base portion (18F, 18R) are each provided with centering adjusters (34, 36).

[0020] According to the fourth embodiment, the centering adjuster can be used to adjust the distance between the curved outer surface of the existing column and the base and support base so that it is uniform, for example, in the circumferential direction.

[0021] The fifth embodiment is a digital signage system dependent on any of the first to fourth embodiments, wherein the display includes a plurality of display modules mounted on the outer surface of a frame and integrated together.

[0022] In the fifth embodiment, a plurality of display modules (76) are mounted on a frame (60) to form an integrated display (14).

[0023] According to the fifth embodiment, the display module can be installed on-site, making on-site installation of the display easy.

[0024] The sixth embodiment is a digital signage subordinate to the fifth embodiment, in which each of the frames includes a plurality of openings defined by frame portions, each of the plurality of display modules is mounted in each of the plurality of openings, and adjacent display modules are connected to form a display.

[0025] In the sixth embodiment, in the frame body (60), there are openings (62b) respectively defined by the inner circumferences of the frame portions (62a), and each display module (76) is mounted in each opening. Therefore, the back surface of the display module is opened by the opening.

[0026] According to the sixth embodiment, by mounting each display module in each opening, the heat generated in the display module can be effectively dissipated.

[0027] The seventh embodiment is a digital signage subordinate to the sixth embodiment, in which the frame body is made of a magnetic metal, the display module is provided with display elements arranged on the front surface side of the substrate, and a frame-shaped magnet is provided on the back surface of the substrate. By attaching the frame-shaped magnet to the frame portion, the display module is mounted in the opening.

[0028] In the seventh embodiment, the display module (76) includes a substrate (78), display elements (78a) are arranged in alignment on the front surface side of the substrate (78), and a rectangular frame-shaped magnet (78b) is provided on the back surface side of the substrate (78). By attaching the magnet (78b) to the frame portion (62a) of the frame body (60), the display module (76) can be attached to the frame body by magnetic force.

[0029] According to the seventh embodiment, since it is only necessary to attach the display module to the frame body, the construction of the display on site is easy.

[0030] The eighth embodiment is a digital signage system dependent on the first embodiment, wherein the support column is a hollow rectangular prism, and the hollow portion is used as a wiring duct to the display.

[0031] In the eighth embodiment, wiring that supplies power and control signals (data) to the display is routed through the hollow portion of the support column (20).

[0032] According to the eighth embodiment, there is no need to provide a separate wiring duct, resulting in a simple structure and no compromise in appearance.

[0033] The ninth embodiment is a digital signage system installed on the outside of an existing cylinder so as to surround it, comprising two split support sections arranged on the outside of the cylinder and connected to each other to surround the cylinder at a constant distance, each split support section having a split base ring, a plurality of support columns whose lower ends are fixed on the split base ring, and a split support ring fixed to the upper ends of the support columns, and further comprising a display provided on the connected split support rings.

[0034] In the ninth embodiment, the digital signage (10) is installed on the outside of the existing cylinder (103) so as to surround the cylinder (103). The split support sections (12F, 12R) are each positioned on the outside of the cylinder (103) and then connected to each other to form a support section (12) that surrounds the cylinder at a constant distance. Each of the split support sections (12F, 12R) has a split base ring (16F, 16R), a plurality of support columns (20) whose lower ends are fixed on the split base ring, and a split support ring (18F, 18R) fixed to the upper ends of the support columns. The display is mounted on the connected split support rings.

[0035] According to the ninth embodiment, the same effects as in the first embodiment can be expected.

[0036] The tenth embodiment is a method for installing digital signage on the outside of an existing cylinder, and involves preparing two half-support sections, each having a half-base ring, multiple support columns whose lower ends are fixed on the half-base ring, and half-support rings fixed to the upper ends of the support columns, arranging the half-support sections so as to surround the cylinder, connecting the half-base rings of the half-support sections to form a base ring, connecting the half-support rings of the half-support sections to form a support ring, and installing the signage section on the support ring.

[0037] According to the tenth embodiment, by combining the split support parts, the support parts that surround the existing cylinder on the outside can be constructed on-site, thus facilitating on-site construction. [Effects of the Invention]

[0038] According to this invention, the signage unit is installed along the outer circumference of the cylinder at a certain distance from the outer circumference, and the signage unit is supported by a support structure with pillars arranged along the outer circumference of the cylinder. As a result, the digital signage has no corners and does not obstruct pedestrian traffic or visibility.

[0039] The above-mentioned objectives, other objectives, features, and advantages of this invention will become even clearer from the following detailed description of embodiments with reference to the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0040] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is an illustrative diagram showing a digital signage system according to one embodiment of this invention. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is an illustrative diagram showing the support portion of the embodiment shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view showing the components of the support part in the embodiment shown in Figure 2. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is an illustrative diagram showing the support structure in the embodiment of Figure 2, with the base ring and support ring fixed to the support column. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating the fixing structure in the embodiment shown in Figure 4. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of a configuration for forming a base ring by connecting the pre-base ring and post-base ring components of the embodiment shown in Figure 3. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of the centering adjuster in the embodiment shown in Figure 3, where Figure 7(A) is an assembly diagram and Figure 7(B) shows the centering state. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of the centering adjuster in the embodiment shown in Figure 3, where Figure 8(A) is an assembly diagram and Figure 8(B) shows the centering state. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is an illustrative diagram showing the signage section of the embodiment shown in Figure 1. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is an illustrative diagram showing the mounting sheet metal for the display module in the embodiment shown in Figure 9. Figure 10(A) shows mounting sheet metal with 6 rows in the left-right direction, and Figure 10(B) shows mounting sheet metal with 4 rows in the left-right direction. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is an illustrative diagram showing the maintenance sheet metal in the embodiment shown in Figure 9. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of a display module in the embodiment shown in Figure 9. Figure 12(A) shows the display side, Figure 12(B) shows the back side (adhesion side), and Figure 12(C) illustrates the state in which adjacent display modules are connected and integrated. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is an illustrative diagram showing the prefabricated support structure before and after construction in the embodiment shown in Figure 1. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is an illustrative diagram showing the process of assembling the first-stage display module mounting sheet metal and maintenance sheet metal after connecting the front and rear support parts of the embodiment in Figure 13 with the connecting part. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is an illustration showing the state after the assembly of the first stage display module mounting sheet metal and maintenance sheet metal has been completed, starting from the state shown in Figure 14. [Figure 16]Figure 16 is an illustrative diagram showing the assembled state of the digital signage according to the embodiment in Figure 1, with the required number of display modules (3 tiers) and maintenance sheet metal parts assembled from the state shown in Figure 15. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is an illustrative diagram showing the state in which the display module is installed in the condition shown in Figure 16. [Figure 18] Figure 18 is an illustrative diagram showing a modified example of the embodiment shown in Figure 1. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0041] Referring to Figure 1, one embodiment of the present invention, the digital signage 10, is a circular (ring-shaped) digital signage in plan view that surrounds the outer circumference of a cylindrical column 103 installed between the ceiling 101 and the floor 102 of a building 100. The digital signage 10 includes a support section 12 having a predetermined height and a signage section 14 supported thereon.

[0042] It should be noted in advance that the various components that make up the support section 12, as described later, are basically made of a magnetic metal such as iron.

[0043] As shown in Figure 2, the support section 12 includes a base ring 16 located below and a support ring 18 located above, and comprises a plurality (six in this embodiment) of support columns 20 connecting the base ring 16 and the support ring 18. Since the support columns 20 determine the height position of the support section 12, i.e., the signage section 14, the length (height) of the support columns 20 is designed so that the support section 12 reaches the required height.

[0044] In areas like train station concourses where passersby view the signage at close range, a height of approximately eye level is appropriate. In commercial facilities such as department stores, where people are expected to view the signage from a relatively distant location, 2-3 meters would be more suitable.

[0045] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the support column 20 is formed as a hollow rectangular prism.

[0046] In this embodiment, both the base ring 16 and the support ring 18 are formed as half-rings. This is so that they can be installed in a way that surrounds the cylindrical column 103 (Figure 1) on its outside during on-site construction.

[0047] The base ring 16, which serves as the base portion, consists of a front base ring 16F and a rear base ring 16R. The front base ring 16F and the rear base ring 16R are connected at the connecting portion 17 at the installation site, forming a circular (ring-shaped) base ring 16 in plan view.

[0048] The base ring 16 is set to a predetermined curvature that is equal to or approximately equal to the curvature of the cylinder 103, and its radius is set to be greater than the radius of the cylinder 103, so that the base ring 16 as a whole maintains an even spacing over the entire circumference in the circumferential direction and follows the outer surface of the cylinder 103.

[0049] The support ring 18, which serves as the support base, consists of a front support ring 18F and a rear support ring 18R. The front support ring 18F and the rear support ring 18R are connected at the connecting portion 19 at the installation site, forming a circular (ring-shaped) support ring 18 in plan view.

[0050] The support ring 18, like the base ring 16, is set to a predetermined curvature that is equal to or approximately equal to the curvature of the cylinder 103, and its radius is set to be greater than the radius of the cylinder 103, so that the support ring 18 as a whole maintains an even spacing along the entire circumference in the circumferential direction and follows the outer surface of the cylinder 103.

[0051] The front base ring 16F and the rear base ring 16R also include, as shown in Figure 3, flat mounting rings front 16fF and rear mounting ring 16fR, respectively, for attaching the lower ends of the support columns 20, and further include L-shaped covering rings front 16cF1 and 16cF2 and rear covering rings 16cR1 and 16cR2, respectively, which cover the attachment points after the lower ends of the three support columns 20 have been attached to the front base ring 16fF and rear mounting ring 16fR.

[0052] Furthermore, when it is not necessary to distinguish between the mounting ring before 16fF and the mounting ring after 16fR, both will be described as "mounting ring 16f". Similarly, when it is not necessary to distinguish between the covering ring before 16cF1 and 16cF2, both will be described as "covering ring before 16cF". When it is not necessary to distinguish between the covering ring after 16cR1 and 16cR2, both will be described as "covering ring after 16cR". In addition, when it is not necessary to distinguish between the covering ring before 16cF and the covering ring after 16cR, the term "covering ring 16c" may be used.

[0053] In this embodiment, the lower ends of three support columns 20 are attached to the mounting ring front 16fF, and two covering ring fronts 16cF are integrated with the mounting ring front 16fF to form the base ring front 16F. However, in order to integrate each covering ring front 16cF with the mounting ring front 16fF, one side (short side) of the cross-section "L" of the covering ring front 16cF is attached to the mounting ring front 16fF, for example, by a bolt.

[0054] The lower ends of the three support columns 20 are attached to the mounting ring 16fR, and the two covering rings 16cR are integrated with the mounting ring 16fR to form the base ring 16R. However, in order to integrate each covering ring 16cR with the mounting ring 16fR, one side (short side) of the cross-section "L" of the covering ring 16cR is attached to the mounting ring 16fR, for example, by a bolt.

[0055] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the support column 20 is attached between the upper surface of the mounting ring 16f of the base ring 16 and the lower surface of the support ring 18. At this time, support column fixing brackets (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as "fixing brackets") 22 are used at the upper and lower ends of the support column 20.

[0056] As can be clearly seen in Figure 5, the fixing bracket 22 includes a rectangular flat plate portion 22a and four rising portions 22b that extend from each side of the flat plate portion 22a. It is fixed to the inside of the openings at the upper and lower ends of the support column 20, for example by welding the rising portions 22b to the inner surfaces of the upper and lower ends of the support column 20. Multiple (four in this embodiment) nuts (back nuts) 22c are fixed to the inner surface of the flat plate portion 22a of the fixing bracket 22, for example by welding.

[0057] When attaching the support column 20 to the mounting ring 16f, the lower surface of the flat plate portion 22a of the fixing bracket 22 at the lower end of the support column 20 is brought into close contact with the upper surface of the mounting ring 16f, and the bolt 24 is screwed into the nut 22c through a through hole (not shown) provided in the mounting ring 16f, thereby fixing the fixing bracket 22, i.e., the support column 20, to the mounting ring 16f.

[0058] When attaching the support column 20 to the support ring 18, the upper surface of the flat plate portion 22a of the fixing bracket 22 at the upper end of the support column 20 is brought into close contact with the lower surface of the support ring 18, and the bolt 24 is screwed into the nut 22c through a through hole (not shown) provided in the support ring 18, thereby fixing the fixing bracket 22, i.e., the support column 20, to the support ring 18.

[0059] It should be noted that while the mounting ring 16f and the support ring 18 actually have through holes for passing the aforementioned bolts 24 through, these through holes are not shown in detail in Figure 3 and other figures to avoid complexity.

[0060] Figure 6 shows the configuration for connecting the halved base ring front 16F and base ring rear 16R in the embodiment to form a circular base ring 16.

[0061] Multiple (two in this embodiment) female threads 26 are formed at the connecting portion 17 (ends in Figures 2 and 6) of the mounting ring front 16fF and the mounting ring rear 16fR. However, the connecting ends of the mounting ring front 16fF and the mounting ring rear 16fR are processed (thinned) so that the thickness is reduced on the upper surface.

[0062] Meanwhile, a connecting plate 28 is prepared in advance, which fits into a recess that has been thinned down on the upper surface. Four through holes 28a are formed in this connecting plate 28, corresponding to the positions of the four female threads 26 mentioned above. The through holes 28a are countersunk to accommodate the heads of the bolts 30 described later.

[0063] Then, the ends of the mounting ring front 16fF and the mounting ring rear 16fR that are to be connected are brought together, and the connecting plate 28 is fitted into the thinly machined connecting portion 17 of the mounting ring front 16fF and the mounting ring rear 16fR. By screwing the bolts 30 into the female threads 26 through each through hole 28a, the mounting ring front 16fF and the mounting ring rear 16fR, that is, the base ring front 16F and the base ring rear 16R are connected to form a circular (annular) base ring 16.

[0064] The reason for thinning the wall thickness at the ends of the mounting ring front 16fF and mounting ring rear 16fR that are to be connected is to receive the aforementioned connecting plate 28 so that the upper surface of the connecting plate 28 becomes flush with the upper surfaces of the mounting ring front 16fF and mounting ring rear 16fR. At this time, since the through hole 28a of the connecting plate 28 is counterbore, the head of the bolt 30 does not protrude from the upper surface of the connecting plate 28, i.e., the upper surface of the mounting ring 16f.

[0065] The method of connecting the support ring front 18F and the support ring 18R is the same, but a repeated explanation will be omitted here.

[0066] Returning to Figure 3, the base ring 16 is provided with adjuster bolts 32 facing downwards to adjust the height and ensure that the base ring 16 as a whole is horizontal. Although it may not be visible in Figure 3, the adjuster bolts 32 are screwed into female threads formed in the mounting ring front 16fF and the mounting ring rear 16fR. As is well known, the height of the adjuster bolts 32 can be adjusted by adjusting the position in which they are screwed into the female threads. In the embodiment of Figure 3, there are multiple (three in this embodiment) female threads in both the mounting ring front 16fF and the mounting ring rear 16fR. In other words, there are three adjuster bolts 32 in both the mounting ring front 16fF and the mounting ring rear 16fR.

[0067] Note that the positions corresponding to the female threads on the mounting rings 16fF and 16fR in the pre-covering 16cF and post-covering 16cR sections are simply notches, and no threads are formed there.

[0068] It is well known that the height at a given position can be changed (adjusted) by how far the adjuster bolt 32 is screwed into the female thread of the mounting ring 16f.

[0069] In this way, the horizontal position of the base ring 16, or support portion 12, is ensured.

[0070] As shown in Figure 1, the digital signage 10 in this embodiment is installed so as to surround the outer circumference of the existing cylinder 103, so it is necessary to keep the distance between the digital signage 10 and the cylinder 103 uniform in the circumferential direction. To achieve this alignment, in this embodiment, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, the lower alignment adjuster 34 is provided inside the base ring 16, and the upper alignment adjuster 36 is provided inside the support ring 18.

[0071] Multiple centering adjusters (four at 90° intervals in this embodiment) are provided on the base ring 16 and support ring 18, respectively, but in Figures 7 and 8, only one centering adjuster (lower 34) and one centering adjuster (upper 36) are illustrated to represent the others.

[0072] The centering adjuster lower 34 shown in Figure 7, although it may not be visible in Figure 3, includes an L-shaped bracket 40 that is fixed to the mounting ring 16f of the base ring 16. A through hole 40b is formed in the plate portion 40a corresponding to one side of this L-shaped bracket 40. A screw hole (female thread) for a back nut 40d is formed in the plate portion 40c corresponding to the other side of the L-shaped bracket 40.

[0073] On the other hand, the mounting ring 16f has a female thread 42 formed at a position corresponding to the through hole 40b.

[0074] The upper surface of the plate portion 40a of the L-bracket 40 is pressed against the lower surface of the mounting ring 16f, and the bolt 44 is inserted through the through hole 40b of the L-bracket 40 and screwed into the female thread 42. This fixes the L-bracket 40 to the mounting ring 16f. At this time, the main surface of the other plate portion 40c of the L-bracket 40 faces radially toward the mounting ring 16f.

[0075] The adjuster bolt 46 is screwed into the threaded hole formed in the plate portion 40c from the outer side (cylindrical side) of the plate portion 40c. Therefore, the adjuster bolt 46 can be inserted and removed (inserted and removed) in the radial direction of the mounting ring 16f.

[0076] Therefore, by adjusting the insertion position of the adjuster bolt 46, the distance between the cylinder 103 and the mounting ring 16f, i.e., the base ring 16, can be set or adjusted to a predetermined distance G, as shown in Figure 7(B).

[0077] The centering adjuster upper 36 provided on the support ring 18 shown in Figure 8 includes a recess 48 formed by machining the lower surface of the support ring 18. Two female threads (screw holes) 50 are formed in the recess 48, aligned in the circumferential direction of the support ring 18.

[0078] On the other hand, an L-shaped bracket 52 is provided. The width of one side (long side) of the L-shaped bracket 52 is formed to be the same as or slightly narrower than the width (circumferential direction) of the recess 48. Along this long side, elongated holes 52a are formed that extend radially from the support ring 18, at positions corresponding to the positions of the two female threads (screw holes) 50 mentioned above, aligned in the circumferential direction of the support ring 18. The short side of the L-shaped bracket 52 functions as a contact portion 52b.

[0079] As shown in Figure 8(B), the long side of the L-shaped bracket 52 is fitted into the recess 48, and the bolt 54 is passed through the elongated hole 52a and screwed into the threaded hole 50. Then, the bolt 54 is fixed at a position where the distance between the contact portion 52b of the L-shaped bracket 52 and the outer surface of the cylinder 103 is a predetermined distance G. As a result, as shown in Figure 8(B), the distance between the cylinder 103 and the support ring 18 can be set or adjusted to a predetermined distance G.

[0080] In this way, in the support section 12, the support column 20 that supports the support ring 18 on the base ring 16 does not protrude from the outer circumference of the base ring 16 or the support ring 18, so the support section 12 does not obstruct passage or visibility.

[0081] Up to this point, we have explained the individual components of the support section 12 and the structure using them. Next, we will explain the signage section 14 shown in Figure 1, which is placed on top of this support section 12.

[0082] As shown in Figure 9, the signage unit 14 is installed on the support ring 18 of the support unit 12, but as a whole, it is formed as a hollow cylindrical shape with the same or approximately the same curvature as the support unit 12, i.e., the support ring 18. The signage unit 14 also consists of a front signage unit 56 that constitutes a display screen as shown in Figure 1, and a rear signage unit 58 for maintenance.

[0083] The front of the signage section 56 includes a display module mounting plate 60, as shown in Figure 10. This display module mounting plate (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as "mounting plate") 60 will be used to mount the display module, and therefore functions as a "frame" for mounting the display module. This mounting plate 60 includes a curved plate portion 62 that is curved to protrude outward with the predetermined curvature described above, left and right connecting plate portions 64 formed by raising inward at both left and right ends of the curved plate portion 62, and upper and lower connecting plate portions 66 formed by raising inward at both upper and lower ends of the curved plate portion 62. The upper and lower connecting plate portions 66 are also curved with the predetermined curvature.

[0084] The curved plate portion 62 has 12 openings 62b in total, each defined by the inner edge of the frame portion 62a, in a 2x6 configuration (2 rows vertically x 6 rows horizontally).

[0085] However, in this embodiment, one mounting plate 60 having six left and right openings 62b as shown in Figure 10(A), and another mounting plate 60 having a similar structure to the mounting plate 60 shown in Figure 10(B), but with the number of left and right openings reduced to four.

[0086] In this embodiment, mounting plates 60 with six rows on the left and right sides and mounting plates 60 with four rows on the left and right sides are used. This is a design consideration depending on the central angle at which the display (signage section front 56) is installed. For example, two or more sets of mounting plates 60 with six rows on the left and right sides may be used, or only one set may be used. Alternatively, only mounting plates 60 with four rows on the left and right sides may be used.

[0087] The left and right connecting plate portions 64 are provided to connect and integrate the mounting plate 60 shown in Figure 10(A) and the mounting plate 60 shown in Figure 10(B), which are adjacent to each other in the left-right direction. In other words, the left and right connecting plate portions 64 of the mounting plate 60 can be joined together, for example, with bolts and nuts, to integrate the two mounting plate 60 in the left-right direction.

[0088] The upper and lower connecting plate portions 66 are for connecting and integrating adjacent mounting plate 60s in the vertical direction, as shown in Figure 10(A), and adjacent mounting plate 60s in the vertical direction, as shown in Figure 10(B). In other words, the upper and lower connecting plate portions 66 of the mounting plate 60 are joined together, for example, with bolts and nuts, to integrate the two mounting plate 60s in the vertical direction.

[0089] The left and right connecting plate sections 64 and the upper and lower connecting plate sections 66 have an appropriate number of through holes for passing these bolts through. In addition, the rectangular openings that are appropriately formed in the left and right connecting plate sections 64 and the upper and lower connecting plate sections 66 are used, for example, to pass necessary electrical wiring in the signage section 14.

[0090] The rear 58 of the signage section includes a maintenance sheet metal 68 as shown in Figure 11. The maintenance sheet metal 68 includes a curved plate portion 70 that is curved to protrude outward with a predetermined curvature, left and right connecting plate portions 72 formed by being raised inward at both left and right ends of the curved plate portion 70, and upper and lower connecting plate portions 74 formed by being raised inward at both upper and lower ends of the curved plate portion 70. The upper and lower connecting plate portions 74 are also curved with a predetermined curvature.

[0091] Multiple openings (two in this embodiment) are formed in the curved plate section 70, arranged in the circumferential direction, and a maintenance door 70a is attached to each of these openings. Specifically, "rear hinges" are welded to the curved plate section 70 and the door 70a, and the doors 70a are attached with removable pins, making them openable and closable. A knob is attached to the outside of the door 70a. The door 70a is normally closed, but when a malfunction occurs in the display or other components, the knob is used to open the door 70a and perform maintenance on the malfunction.

[0092] The left and right connecting plate portions 72 are provided to connect and integrate adjacent mounting plates 60 and maintenance plates 68 in the left-right direction. In other words, the maintenance plates 68 are integrated with the left and right connecting plate portions 72 of the mounting plates 60 and the left and right connecting plate portions 72 of the maintenance plates 68 by joining them with bolts and nuts.

[0093] The upper and lower connecting plates 74 are for connecting and integrating adjacent maintenance sheet metal 68 in the vertical direction. In other words, the upper and lower connecting plates 74 of the maintenance sheet metal 68 are joined together, for example, with bolts and nuts, to integrate the two maintenance sheet metal 68 in the vertical direction.

[0094] The left and right connecting plates 72 and the upper and lower connecting plates 74 have an appropriate number of through holes for passing these bolts through. In addition, the rectangular openings that are appropriately formed in the left and right connecting plates 72 and the upper and lower connecting plates 74 are used, for example, for passing necessary electrical wiring through.

[0095] The mounting sheet metal 60 and maintenance sheet metal 68 mentioned above are both basically made of a magnetic metal such as iron.

[0096] In this embodiment, a display module 76, as shown in Figure 12, is used as an example to be attached to the mounting plate 60 described above and to constitute the display portion. As this display module 76, for example, an LED module called "HDBLOCK-FLEXIBLE" (product name) provided by ".Ledblox" (trademark) can be used.

[0097] The display module 76 used in this embodiment has a substrate 78 made of a flexible material on which a large number of LED elements 78a are arranged regularly in vertical and horizontal directions on the surface (outer surface), and a rubber magnet 78b, for example, in the shape of a frame (hollow rectangle), is provided on the back surface (inner surface).

[0098] Multiple (two in this embodiment) connecting protrusions 80a are formed on the upper edge of the substrate 78, for example, projecting upward, and multiple (two in this embodiment) connecting protrusions 82a are formed on the right edge, for example, projecting to the right. Corresponding individually to these protrusions 80a and 82a, connecting holes 80b and 82b capable of receiving the protrusions 80a are formed on the lower edge and left edge of the substrate 78, respectively.

[0099] However, instead of the LED module used in the embodiment, it is also possible to use a different display module for the display module 76, such as an organic EL formed from a flexible material that can maintain a certain shape.

[0100] This concludes the explanation of each component that makes up the digital signage 10 in the embodiment shown in Figure 1. Next, we will explain the installation procedure for completing the digital signage 10 shown in Figure 1 using these components. However, explanations that overlap with the above explanation will be omitted, and the explanation will be as concise as possible.

[0101] First, the split support front 12F and support rear 12R shown in Figure 13 are prepared according to the procedure already described. At the support front 12F, as shown in Figure 5, the lower ends of the three support columns 20 are attached to the mounting ring front 16fF using the fixing bracket 22. However, the mounting ring front 16fF already has the required number of adjuster bolts 32 in predetermined locations, and the required number of centering adjuster lowers 34 (Figure 7) are already incorporated in predetermined locations.

[0102] The front support ring 18F is attached to the upper end of each support column 20, whose lower end is fixed to the mounting ring 16fF of the front base ring 16F, using the same fixing bracket 22.

[0103] Similarly, prepare a support section 12R by fixing the three support columns 20 between the rear of the mounting ring 16fR and the rear of the support ring 18R.

[0104] These support sections, front 12F and rear 12R, are brought to the site where the cylindrical column 103 is located.

[0105] Subsequently, as shown in Figure 2, the front support 12F and rear support 12R are positioned to surround the cylinder 103, the front base ring 16F and rear base ring 16R are connected by the connecting part 17 (Figure 2), and the front support ring 18F and rear support ring 18R are connected by the connecting part 19 (Figure 2).

[0106] Such front support 12F and rear support 12R are split support parts connected at two locations in the circumferential direction on the curved outer surface of the cylinder 103.

[0107] In this way, the support section 12 surrounding the cylinder 103, as shown in Figure 2, is assembled. In this state, the horizontal position of the mounting ring 16f, or base ring 16, is ensured by adjusting the multiple adjuster bolts 32.

[0108] Furthermore, the mounting ring 16f is centered by adjusting the adjuster bolts 46 of the multiple centering adjusters 34 (Figure 7) provided on the mounting ring 16f. As a result, the distance between the outer surface of the cylinder 103 and the inner surface of the mounting ring 16f is adjusted to a predetermined distance G (Figure 7(B)) around the entire circumference.

[0109] Subsequently, the front cover rings 16cF1 and 16cF2 shown in Figure 3 are attached to the front mounting ring 16fF, and the rear cover rings 16cR1 and 16cR2 shown in Figure 3 are attached to the rear mounting ring 16fR to complete the base ring 16.

[0110] Furthermore, the support ring 18 is centered by adjusting the position of the L-shaped brackets 52 on the multiple centering adjusters 36 (Figure 8) provided on the support ring 18. As a result, the distance between the outer surface of the cylinder 103 and the inner surface of the support ring 18 is adjusted to a predetermined distance G (Figure 8(B)) over the entire circumference.

[0111] Subsequently, in order to form the signage section 14, the mounting sheet metal 60 and the maintenance sheet metal 68 are assembled on the support ring 18 of the support section 12.

[0112] Figure 14 illustrates the state in which the four left and right mounting plates 60 and two maintenance plates 68 shown in Figure 10(B) are attached to the support ring 18 using bolts (not shown) to connect the connecting plate portions 66 (Figure 10) and 74 (Figure 11). Then, the six left and right mounting plates 60 shown in Figure 10(A) are attached between the already attached four left and right mounting plates 60 and maintenance plates 68 by joining the connecting plate portions 64 (Figure 10) and 72 (Figure 11) to each other using bolts (not shown). As a result, the state in which the first stage of plates 60 and 68 are attached is shown in Figure 15.

[0113] However, the order in which these mounting plates 60 and maintenance plates 68 are installed does not matter. Either order is fine.

[0114] Subsequently, as shown in Figure 16, all necessary mounting plates 60 and maintenance plates 68 are assembled upwards from the state shown in Figure 15. In this way, an opening 62b (Figure 10) with 6 rows vertically and 10 rows horizontally is formed.

[0115] Then, as shown in Figure 17, one display module 76, as shown in Figure 12, is attached to one of the openings 62b of the mounting sheet metal 60. Specifically, one display module 76 is attached to one opening 62b by attaching a frame-shaped magnet 78 (Figure 12(B)) to the frame portion 62a of the mounting sheet metal 60 that defines the opening 62b. In this way, multiple display modules 76 are integrated to form a display.

[0116] Thus, since the mounting plate 60 has a display attached to its outer surface, it functions as a "frame" for mounting the display.

[0117] Furthermore, by attaching the magnet 78b to the frame portion 62a that defines the opening 62b, the rear of the display module 76 is open through the opening 62b, thus enabling effective heat dissipation from the display module 76.

[0118] As in this embodiment, by giving the support section 12 a predetermined height and positioning the signage section 14 at a relatively high location, the support section 12, or support column 20, will be primarily within people's normal line of sight. As a result, their line of sight will not be obstructed by the digital signage, and visibility will be further improved.

[0119] In this embodiment, the height of the support section 12 was approximately 3000 mm. In contrast, the height of the signage section 14 was approximately 1500 mm in this embodiment.

[0120] Although not explained in detail in the embodiment, each display module 76 is supplied with power for display purposes, and such power wiring can be routed using the hollow portion of the support column 20.

[0121] Furthermore, a control unit (such as a computer) that controls the display modules 76 to display a unified image as the signage unit 14 is provided, for example, on the back surface of the circuit board 78 of each display module 76 (the area surrounded by the frame-shaped magnet 78b). Control signals (control data) to such control units can be provided to each control unit via wires from memory (not shown). Such wired connections can also be made using the internal cavity of the support column 20.

[0122] In other words, the hollow support column 20 also functions as a wiring duct, which has the advantage of making it easier to organize the wiring.

[0123] Alternatively, the control signals (control data) sent to the control units (such as computers) may be transmitted wirelessly from an external source to each control unit.

[0124] At this time, adjacent display modules 76 are integrated by inserting the projection 80a into the connection hole 80b and the projection 82a into the connection hole 82b, as shown in Figure 12(C). In this way, the digital signage 10 of the embodiment shown in Figure 1 can be installed on the outside of the existing cylinder 103.

[0125] Thus, in this embodiment, the signage section is supported by a support section that surrounds the outwardly curving circular portion (curved portion) at a predetermined distance from its outer surface, thereby suppressing the digital signage 10 from obstructing passage or visibility.

[0126] Moreover, there is no need to drill holes or modify the ceiling 101, floor 102, or even the columns 103 of the building 100, so it can be installed safely without compromising the seismic resistance of the building 100.

[0127] Furthermore, there is no need to modify the building 100; the original condition can be easily restored simply by dismantling the base ring 16 and support ring 18.

[0128] In the above-described embodiment, it was assumed that the existing cylinder 103 has a perfect circle or nearly perfect circle in cross-section. However, this invention is also applicable to cylinders 103a with an elliptical or oblong cross-section, as shown in Figure 18.

[0129] In the embodiment shown in Figure 18, semicircular support parts, such as the front support part 12F and the rear support part 12R shown in Figure 2, are used for the circular portions at both ends of the cylinder 103a, and the two semicircular support parts, such as the front support part 12F and the rear support part 12R, are connected by a straight support part 12S.

[0130] Although not shown in the diagram, the linear support section 12S also includes a linear base section corresponding to the base ring 16 and a support section corresponding to the support ring 18, and if necessary, a support column can be provided between the base section and the support section. However, it is optional whether or not to install the signage section on the support section of this linear support section 12S.

[0131] In other words, this invention is a digital signage system that can be applied to existing columns having a circular portion, as shown in Figures 1 and 18, that is, a curved outer surface that curves outward in a horizontal cross-section. In this case, the base portion (base ring 16) is curved outward so as to maintain a constant distance from its curved outer surface, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, for example. Similarly, the support base portion (support ring 18) is also fixed to the upper ends of multiple support columns and is curved outward so as to maintain a constant distance from the curved outer surface.

[0132] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, two types of mounting plates 60 shown in Figure 10 were used as the frame for mounting the display module 76. This was done to reduce the weight of these mounting plates 60 in order to make them easier to transport to the site and easier to handle on site. Therefore, if possible, one mounting plate that integrates the two types may be used.

[0133] In the above embodiment, a divided support portion 12 was used so that the cylinder could be enclosed afterward. However, the number of divisions is not limited to the halves (2 divisions) in the embodiment, and more divisions may be used.

[0134] Furthermore, although the signage section 14 is formed with a curve that follows the shape of the cylinder 103, in commercial facilities such as department stores, the signage section 14 is often installed higher than eye level, so it does not necessarily obstruct pedestrian traffic or visibility. For this reason, the signage section 14 does not need to have a circular (ring-shaped) plan view as in the example; it may have a triangular, rectangular, or even more polygonal shape in plan view. In this case, by changing the shape of the frame (mounting plate 60) shown in Figure 10 to a polygonal shape, it is possible to stably support the circular (ring-shaped) plan view support section 12 on the support ring 18 which serves as the support base.

[0135] When using such a polygonal signage unit 14, it does not follow the outer surface of the cylinder 103, and the distance between the outer surface and the inner surface of the signage unit 14 is not necessarily uniform in the circumferential direction of the cylinder. However, if the signage unit 14 is placed at a relatively high position as described above, it is considered that it will not necessarily obstruct pedestrian traffic or visibility.

[0136] The specific figures mentioned above are merely examples and can be changed as appropriate depending on the product specifications, especially the size of existing cylinders, etc. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0137] 10…Digital signage 12...Support part 14 ... Signage Department 16…base ring 16f ... Mounting ring 16c ... Covering 18 ...Support ring 20...post 22… Fixing brackets 17, 19...Connection part 32, 46 ... Adjuster bolts 34, 36... Centering adjuster 60 ... Display module mounting sheet metal 60a ... Frame section 60b…Aperture 68... Sheet metal for maintenance 76… display module 78 ... circuit board 78b ... Frame-shaped magnet 80a, 82a...protrusion 80b, 82b ... connection holes 103 ... cylinder

Claims

1. A digital signage system installed on the outside of an existing column having a curved outer surface that curves outward in a horizontal cross-section, A base portion located on the outside of the column, which is curved outward to maintain a constant distance from the curved outer surface, Multiple support columns, each with its lower end fixed to the upper surface of the base portion, A support base portion is fixed to the upper end of each of the aforementioned plurality of support columns and is curved outward so as to maintain a constant distance from the curved outer surface, and is positioned on the outside of the column. A frame supported on the aforementioned support base, and A digital signage system comprising a display provided on the outer surface of the aforementioned frame.

2. The digital signage according to claim 1, wherein the frame is formed to curve outward so as to maintain a constant distance from the curved outer surface.

3. The curved outer surface of the column has a semicircular cross-section. The base portion, the plurality of support columns, and the support base portion are integrated to form a support portion. The digital signage according to claim 2, wherein the support portion is formed by a split support portion connected at at least one location in the circumferential direction of the semicircle.

4. The digital signage according to claim 3, further comprising a centering adjuster provided on the base portion and the support base portion of the split support, respectively, for adjusting the distance between the curved outer surface and the base portion and the support base portion.

5. The digital signage according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the display includes a plurality of display modules mounted on the outer surface of the frame and integrated together.

6. The digital signage according to claim 5, wherein each of the frame bodies includes a plurality of openings defined by the frame portion, each of the plurality of display modules is mounted in each of the plurality of openings, and adjacent display modules are connected to each other to constitute the display.

7. The digital signage according to claim 6, wherein the frame is made of a magnetic metal, the display module is provided with display elements arranged on the surface side of the substrate, a frame-shaped magnet is provided on the back side of the substrate, and the display module is mounted in the opening by the frame-shaped magnet attaching to the frame.

8. The digital signage according to claim 1, wherein the support column is a hollow rectangular column, and the hollow portion thereof is used as a wiring duct to the display.

9. A digital signage system installed on the outside of an existing cylinder, surrounding the cylinder, The cylinder is provided with two split support parts that are positioned on the outside of the cylinder, connected to each other, and surrounding the cylinder at a constant distance from each other. Each of the aforementioned split support sections includes a split base ring, a plurality of support columns whose lower ends are fixed on the split base ring, and a split support ring fixed to the upper ends of the support columns, and further Digital signage comprising a display mounted on the aforementioned connected split support rings.

10. A method of installing digital signage on the outside of an existing cylinder, Two split support sections are prepared, each having a split base ring, multiple support columns whose lower ends are fixed on the split base ring, and a split support ring fixed to the upper ends of the support columns. The aforementioned split support portions are arranged so as to surround the cylinder. The split base rings of the split support parts are connected to each other to form a base ring. The split support rings of the split support portion are connected to each other to form a support ring. A method for installing a signage unit on the aforementioned support ring.

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