Indication device

The display device with a translucent power generator and integrated air quality sensor addresses power supply issues by maintaining aesthetics and enabling unobtrusive, self-sufficient air quality monitoring.

JP3255002UActive Publication Date: 2026-03-06WATTY CORP
View PDF 1 Cites 0 Cited by

Patent Information

Application Number
JP2026000041U
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Utility models
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2026-01-07
Publication Date
2026-03-06
Estimated Expiration
2036-01-07

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Indoor air quality sensors face challenges with power supply, as wired connections are costly and time-consuming, while battery replacements are inconvenient, and large-capacity batteries are difficult to implement in miniaturized devices. Additionally, using solar cells with large light-receiving surfaces compromises the aesthetic appearance of indoor spaces.

Method used

A display device with an integrated indoor air quality sensor that includes a translucent power generator, such as transparent power-generating glass, which harvests energy from indoor lighting or sunlight, combined with a power storage unit and control system to provide a self-sufficient power supply without compromising the aesthetic appearance.

Benefits of technology

The device maintains the indoor space's aesthetics while providing a stable power source for the sensor, allowing unobtrusive monitoring of air quality without visible wiring or battery maintenance, and can operate effectively in various lighting conditions.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

Smart Images

  • Figure 0003255002000001_ABST
    Figure 0003255002000001_ABST
Patent Text Reader

Abstract

To provide a display device having an indoor air quality sensor that maintains the atmosphere of an indoor space and maintains the aesthetics of the space design. [Solution] The display device 100 comprises a display unit 22 on which a display object 32 is displayed, a cover unit 16 arranged on the visible side of the display unit 22 and having a power generating body 14 that transmits light, a sensor unit 24 having an indoor air quality sensor, a communication unit 26 that acquires information from the sensor unit 24 and communicates with external devices, a storage unit 28 that stores power generated by the power generating body 14, and a power control unit 30 that adjusts the power from the power generating body 14 and the storage unit 28 and supplies it to the sensor unit 24 and the communication unit 26.
Need to check novelty before this filing date? Find Prior Art

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a display device with an indoor air quality sensor. [Background technology]

[0002] Indoor air quality refers to the quality of air indoors, and is an important factor that affects the health and comfort of people inside. It is affected by various factors such as carbon dioxide concentration, temperature and humidity, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and particulate matter contained in the air, etc. By managing these factors in a balanced manner, a healthy and comfortable indoor environment can be maintained, which has a positive impact on people's performance, concentration, and health. Improving indoor air quality is also related to energy efficiency and sustainability, so it is attracting increasing attention from companies and public facilities.

[0003] Indoor air quality sensors are effective in managing indoor air quality. For example, in offices, CO2 sensors and PM2.5 sensors can help manage ventilation conditions and maintain employee health. In warehouses, warehouse radiant heat sensors can monitor room temperature fluctuations and manage temperatures to prevent product deterioration and quality degradation. In nursing homes, radiant heat sensors and CO2 sensors can support a hygienic and comfortable environment. In factories, current and temperature sensors can monitor equipment power consumption and abnormalities to support stable equipment operation and predictive maintenance. In refrigerators and freezers, temperature sensors can store ingredients and products at the appropriate temperature and help maintain quality. In clean rooms, wind, air pressure, temperature and humidity sensors can help create an optimal working environment.

[0004] Power supply is a key issue when using indoor air quality sensors. When using a wired power source, the wiring work is time-consuming and costly, and sensors cannot be placed in places where the power wiring cannot reach. When using batteries, the batteries need to be replaced or recharged every time the remaining battery power runs low, which incurs time and cost. It is difficult to install large-capacity batteries in devices that require miniaturization.

[0005] One technology that has attracted attention as a means of solving these power supply problems is "energy harvesting" or "environmental power generation." This is a technology in which devices "harvest" energy from the surrounding environment to generate power, and one example is a power generation technology that uses sunlight or indoor lighting.

[0006] Conventionally, amorphous silicon solar cells (non-crystalline silicon solar cells) have been widely used as solar cells for small devices due to their thinness, light weight, low cost, and power generation efficiency.

[0007] On the other hand, in the field of architecture, solar-powered glass, which generates electricity through the application of sunlight to building materials such as windows and walls, is attracting attention.

[0008] For example, Patent Document 1 below discloses a technology for utilizing the power generated by a photovoltaic glass brick in a sensor. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0009] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 2022-510507 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0010] The inventor came to the following realization regarding the power supply of indoor air quality sensors. Energy harvesting technology is desirable as a power source for indoor air quality sensors. Furthermore, to obtain sufficient power from solar cells, the light-receiving surface needs to be as large as possible.

[0011] On the other hand, indoor air quality sensors should be as inconspicuous as possible so as not to disrupt the atmosphere of the office or residential space and maintain the aesthetic design of the space. However, if the light-receiving surface of the solar cell is large, there is a risk that this will be detrimental to the atmosphere and aesthetic design.

[0012] The present invention has been made in consideration of these circumstances, and its purpose is to provide a display device with an indoor air quality sensor that maintains the atmosphere of the indoor space and maintains the aesthetics of the spatial design.

[0013] Another object of the present invention is to provide a display device having an indoor air quality sensor, which has a large light receiving surface for a solar cell without spoiling the aesthetic appearance. [Means for solving the problem]

[0014] In order to solve the above problems, one embodiment of the display device of the present invention is characterized by comprising a display unit on which an object is displayed, a cover unit arranged on the visible side of the display unit and having a power generating body that transmits light, a sensor unit having an indoor air quality sensor, a communication unit that acquires information from the sensor unit and communicates with external devices, a storage unit that stores power generated by the power generating body, and a power control unit that adjusts power from the power generating body or the storage unit and supplies it to the sensor unit and the communication unit.

[0015] Any combination of the above components or mutual substitution of the components or expressions of the present invention are also valid aspects of the present invention. [Effects of the Invention]

[0016] According to the present invention, a display device with an indoor air quality sensor can be provided, which can maintain the atmosphere of the indoor space and maintain the aesthetics of the space design.

[0017] According to the present invention, a display device having an indoor air quality sensor can be provided that has a large light-receiving surface of a solar cell without spoiling the aesthetic appearance. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1] 1A and 1B show a display device according to a first embodiment, in which FIG. 1A is an exploded perspective view and FIG. 1B is a rear view. [Figure 2] 1 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a display device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a display device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a display device according to a third embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a display device according to a fourth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] The present invention will be described below based on preferred embodiments with reference to the drawings. In the embodiments, the same or equivalent components and members are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions will be omitted where appropriate. [Example]

[0020] [First embodiment] In this embodiment, the display device 100 is an electronic panel device. Fig. 1(a) is an exploded perspective view of the electronic panel device, which is the display device 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0021] Fig. 1(b) is a rear view of the electronic panel device, which is the display device 100 according to the first embodiment. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the display device 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0022] The electronic panel device includes a display unit (22), a cover unit (16), a support (20), a sensor unit (24), a communication unit (26), a power storage unit (28), and a power control unit (30).

[0023] The display unit 22 has an electronic display unit 18. The electronic display unit 18 may be a liquid crystal display, an LED display, an organic EL display, or electronic paper.

[0024] The electronic display unit 18 has a display unit 42. The electronic display unit 18 also has a playback device (not shown). The playback device plays and displays the display object 32 on the display unit 42. The display object 32 may be image data or video data. The image data or video data may be acquired from an electronic medium such as an SD card, or may be stored in advance on a hard disk of the playback device. The electronic display unit 18 has a power source such as a secondary battery. The electronic display unit 18 may receive power from a power control unit 30 (described later) to supplement its driving power.

[0025] The cover unit 16 has a frame 38, a protective panel 12, and a power generator 14. The cover unit 16 is arranged on the viewing side of the display unit 22. The frame 38 is fitted into a rear support member 36, which will be described later, so that the protective panel 12, the power generator 14, and the electronic display unit 18 are stacked and fixed between the frame 38 and the rear support member 36. The display device 100 comprises a mechanism for housing the electronic display unit 18 with the frame 38 and the rear support member 36.

[0026] The protective panel 12 is transparent to the extent that it does not interfere with the visibility of the display 32, and allows light to pass through. The power generator 14 is located between the protective panel 12 and the electronic display unit 18, and is transparent to the extent that it does not interfere with the visibility of the display 32, and allows light to pass through.

[0027] The power generating element 14 is a photoelectric conversion element that has the property of transmitting light (translucency), and in this embodiment is made of transparent power generating glass that uses technology such as perovskite solar cells. The power generating element 14 is arranged on the visible side (front surface) of the display unit 22 so as to overlap the display unit 22. The power generating element 14 may be arranged so as to cover the front surface of the electronic display unit 18, or may be arranged as part of a translucent member that covers the front surface.

[0028] The support 20 has a rear support 36 and a stand 44. The support 20 supports the display 22 so that it is easy to view. The stand 44 is provided to support the rear support 36. In this embodiment, the stand 44 has a base 46 with movable casters. The stand 44, which is made up of the base 46 and two columns installed above it, is joined to the rear support 36. The stand 44 may have a structure that allows the height and viewing angle of the display 22 to be adjusted.

[0029] The sensor unit 24, communication unit 26, power storage unit 28, and power control unit 30 are installed on the rear side of the rear support member 36. The support member 20 may have a housing (not shown) that houses the sensor unit 24, communication unit 26, power storage unit 28, and power control unit 30. The housing may be provided on the rear support member 36, or on either the stand unit 44 or the base unit 46.

[0030] The sensor unit 24 detects the state of the surrounding environment in which the display device 100 is installed. The sensor unit 24 may be housed in the above-mentioned housing and attached in a state in which it can be exposed to the outside air via the ventilation hole 54 or the like, or it may be installed so as to be directly exposed to the outside air. The sensor unit 24 is driven by power supplied from the power control unit 30.

[0031] The sensor unit 24 in this embodiment is composed of various environmental sensors, particularly those that measure indoor air quality (IAQ). These may be a CO2 sensor that measures carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration, a VOC sensor that detects volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that cause sick house syndrome, a PM sensor that measures fine particulate matter (PM2.5), and a temperature and humidity sensor that measures temperature and humidity. It may also be a composite sensor module that includes at least one of these, or a combination of these.

[0032] Various types of environmental data detected by the sensor unit 24 are output as electrical signals to the communication unit 26. The communication unit 26 transmits the various types of information acquired by the sensor unit 24 to an external device. The communication unit 26 may be disposed inside the housing on the rear side of the rear support 36, together with the power control unit 30 and the power storage unit 28. The communication unit 26 is driven by power supplied from the power control unit 30.

[0033] The communication unit 26 acquires the environmental data (CO2 concentration, VOC value, PM2.5 concentration, temperature and humidity, etc.) output from the sensor unit 24 and transmits this data to an external management server, a cloud system, or the administrator's mobile terminal, etc., using a predetermined wireless communication method. The communication method may be Wi-Fi or Bluetooth (registered trademark), or may be a low-power wireless communication technology such as LPWA (Low Power Wide Area). The sensor unit 24 may be connected to the display unit 22 so that the environmental data can be displayed on the display unit 22. The sensor unit 24 and the communication unit 26 may be integrated into a module.

[0034] The power storage unit 28 includes a secondary battery for storing surplus power generated by the power generation unit 14. The power storage unit 28 receives power from the power control unit 30 and stores the power. In this embodiment, a semi-solid state battery, a lithium ion battery, or the like is used as the secondary battery. When power generation by the power generation unit 14 is not performed, such as at night or when the lights are off, or when there is insufficient power, the power storage unit 28 supplies power in response to a command from the power control unit 30.

[0035] The power control unit 30 is electrically connected to the cover unit 16 and the power storage unit 28, and adjusts the power from the power generation body 14 and the power storage unit 28 to supply it to the sensor unit 24 and the communication unit 26. The power control unit 30 is a control circuit that manages the input and output of power and ensures a stable supply to each unit. The power control unit 30 is configured to include, for example, a DC-DC converter and a charge / discharge control IC, and converts the unstable voltage output from the power generation body 14 into an appropriate voltage to charge the power storage unit 28, and also supplies constant-voltage power required to drive the sensor unit 24 and the communication unit 26. The power control unit 30, together with the power storage unit 28, may be housed in a housing attached somewhere on the support 36. The power control unit 30 may also supply power to the display unit 22 (electronic display unit 18).

[0036] The display device 100 having the above configuration is used as follows. The display device 100 can be installed anywhere that will be most effective in conveying information, such as a store entrance, a shopping mall corridor, an office lobby, or an event venue. The display device 100 is equipped with an independent power supply function using the power generator 14, so it is not tied to the location of a power outlet and does not require wiring work to lay a power cable on the floor. In this embodiment, the stand 44 is equipped with casters (movement mechanism), so it can be easily moved to accommodate layout changes.

[0037] During operation, the display device 100 simultaneously performs two functions: "displaying information" and "monitoring the environment." As a display function, the electronic display unit 18 (such as a liquid crystal display) plays image data or video data (such as advertisements, guidance information, and sales information) stored on an SD card or internal memory on the screen as display objects 32. At this time, the power generating body 14 covering the front of the display unit 22 has high translucency, so passersby and observers can clearly view the video information without being aware of the power generating body 14's presence.

[0038] As an environmental monitoring function, the display device 100 receives light from indoor lighting or sunlight shining through a window with the power generating body 14 and generates electricity. The generated electricity is adjusted by the power control unit 30 and used as driving power for the sensor unit 24 and the communication unit 26, and a portion of it may be used as auxiliary power for the electronic display unit 18.

[0039] The sensor unit 24 constantly measures the air environment (CO2 concentration, VOC, PM2.5, temperature, humidity, etc.) at the installation location. If the CO2 concentration rises due to crowding or if the VOC value worsens due to insufficient ventilation, the data may be wirelessly transmitted via the communication unit 26 to the manager's terminal or the building's air conditioning management system.

[0040] With the above configuration, the display device 100 has the following effects. The display device 100 of this embodiment can operate independently without requiring wiring from an external power source, thanks to power generation by the power generation body 14 and power supply by the power storage unit 28. Therefore, power cables running along the floor or exposed wiring ducts do not detract from the aesthetics or luxurious feel of the installation space (office, commercial facility, hotel lobby, etc.).

[0041] The sensor unit 24, such as a CO2 sensor or VOC sensor, is housed behind or inside the rear support 36, so the display device 100 can monitor indoor air quality (IAQ) unobtrusively while maintaining the design of a sophisticated "digital sign" without revealing an appearance as a measuring device that would be intimidating to users.

[0042] The power generating body 14 is made of, for example, translucent power generating glass and can be placed so as to cover the visible side (front) of the electronic display unit 18, eliminating the area constraints that require it to be installed in an inconspicuous location, as is the case with opaque solar panels. The display device 100 can use the entire large front area of ​​the display unit 22 as a light receiving surface while maintaining the visibility of the display object 32. The display device 100 can efficiently generate sufficient power to drive the sensor unit 24 and communication unit 26, even in weak light environments such as indoor lighting.

[0043] [Second embodiment] In this embodiment, the display device 100 is a tabletop decorative display device, an acrylic stand. Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the acrylic stand, which is the display device 100 according to the second embodiment.

[0044] The display device 100 includes a display unit 22 , a cover unit 16 , a housing 34 , a sensor unit 24 , a communication unit 26 , a power storage unit 28 , and a power control unit 30 .

[0045] The display unit 22 has a display object 32 and a rear panel 50. In this embodiment, the display object 32 is a static medium that presents visual information, such as a printed material, such as a character, logo, or picture. The display object 32 may be designed to fit the shape of the display object 32. The rear panel 50, together with the cover unit 16 described below, constitutes a housing mechanism that houses the display object 32. The cover unit 16 and the rear panel 50 sandwich the display object 32 between them, and fasteners (not shown) are attached to mounting holes 58 provided in the four corners to house and secure the display object 32.

[0046] The cover unit 16 has a front panel 48 and a power generator 14. The cover unit 16 is disposed by being layered on the visible side of the display unit 22. The power generator 14 is a translucent photoelectric conversion element and power generating glass, as in the first embodiment, and has a translucency that does not interfere with the visibility of the display object 32.

[0047] Housing 34 houses sensor unit 24, communication unit 26, power storage unit 28, and power control unit 30. Groove 52 is provided on the top surface of housing 34, and the lower ends of stacked display unit 22 and cover unit 16 are fitted into groove 52, thereby supporting display unit 22 and cover unit 16 by housing 34. Housing 34 may be a base for allowing the entire display device 100 to stand on its own, or may have a structure that allows it to be placed on a flat surface such as a table or shelf.

[0048] An electrode (output terminal) is provided at the bottom end of the power generator 14, while a corresponding power receiving terminal (connector) is placed inside the groove 52 of the housing 34. When the display unit 22 and the cover unit 16 are fitted into the groove 52 of the housing 34, the terminals of both come into contact and conduct. As a result, electricity generated by the power generator 14 flows to the circuit inside the housing 34.

[0049] The sensor unit 24, communication unit 26, power storage unit 28, and power control unit 30 are disposed within a housing 34. The sensor unit 24 may be attached in a state in which it can be exposed to the outside air through a ventilation hole 54 provided in the housing 34.

[0050] The display device 100 having the above configuration is used as follows. The display device 100 of this embodiment is installed and used in a relatively small space, such as an office desk, a table in a restaurant, a bedside table in a hotel, or a living room cabinet in an ordinary home. Because it generates its own power using the power generator 14, the user does not need to worry about managing a power cable, and installation can be completed by simply "placing it" like an ordinary interior item or pop stand (POP).

[0051] The display device 100 functions as a "decorative item" or a "desk sign" under normal circumstances. The power generator 14 included in the cover 16 is colorless, transparent, or highly translucent, so the user can see through the power generator 14 to see the display object 32 (such as a character, flower, logo, or menu) behind it.

[0052] The acquired data is sent in real time to the store or office management system via the communication unit 26. This allows, for example, a restaurant to take specific ventilation measures such as "the CO2 concentration at table 3 is high, so we will increase the air conditioning or open the windows" without staff having to make rounds. Also, in offices, the air environment at each employee's desk (risk of drowsiness or decreased concentration due to insufficient ventilation) can be visualized, which can be used to improve health management.

[0053] With the above configuration, the display device 100 has the following effects. The display device 100 according to the second embodiment is a tabletop display device 100 that can be placed on an individual's desk, a table in a restaurant, etc., eliminating the hassle of wiring and maintaining the aesthetic appearance of the installation location.

[0054] The display device 100 according to the second embodiment can pinpoint and monitor the air environment in close proximity to the user (around the user's hands and face). The display device 100 of the present invention is placed on a table and measures indoor air quality (IAQ) at a location close to the user's breathing zone. This allows for the acquisition of more specific and effective environmental data, such as the CO2 concentration at each desk in an office (risk of drowsiness due to insufficient ventilation) or the effectiveness of air conditioning in each private room in a restaurant (temperature and humidity), which can be used to maintain a comfortable space.

[0055] The display device 100 according to the second embodiment can ensure a wide light receiving area that is effective for power generation while maintaining the same design as existing acrylic stands and photo frames.

[0056] [Third embodiment] In this embodiment, the display device 100 is a guidance sign. Fig. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a guidance sign that is the display device 100 according to the third embodiment.

[0057] The display device 100 includes a display unit 22 , a cover unit 16 , a support 20 , a sensor unit 24 , a communication unit 26 , a power storage unit 28 , and a power control unit 30 .

[0058] In this embodiment, the display 32 is a guidance sign that identifies the location and route of an emergency exit. Alternatively, it may be a sign that guides to a specific location, such as a specific room or the location of an object. The display unit 22 is created by attaching a guide sign design to a plate-shaped medium made of resin or metal. The display unit 22 may be printed directly on the plate-shaped medium. The display unit 22 may be box-shaped with no back and a hollow space inside.

[0059] The cover part 16 has a frame 38 and the power generator 14. The power generator 14 is translucent to the extent that it does not interfere with the visibility of the display object 32. The frame 38 is fitted into the support body 20, and has a structure in which the power generator 14 and the display part 22 are sandwiched and fixed between the support body 20 and the frame 38. This forms a cavity (storage space) between the support body 20 and the display part 22, or inside the support body 20.

[0060] The sensor unit 24, communication unit 26, power storage unit 28, and power control unit 30 are mounted on the support body 20 or housed in the aforementioned cavity. In this embodiment, a lighting fixture (such as an LED module) for illuminating the display unit 22 from behind may be provided on the support body 20. In this case, the power control unit 30 may supply the power generated by the power generation body 14 and stored in the power storage unit 28 to the lighting fixture. This makes it possible to keep the guidance sign lit using the built-in power source even during a disaster or power outage in which the external power source is cut off.

[0061] The support body 20 has a structure suited to the installation location. In this embodiment, a rear support body 36 may be provided with fasteners 56 at its four corners, allowing the support body 20 to be installed directly on a wall (wall-mounted type). The support body 20 may also be a ceiling-mounted type having a hanging device or fasteners 56 on the upper surface for installation on a ceiling.

[0062] The display device 100 having the above configuration is used as follows. This display device 100 is installed as a guide sign indicating an evacuation route in the hallways, staircases, or above doors of an office building, school, etc. During normal operation, the device receives illumination light from within the facility with a power generator 14 (transparent power-generating glass) to generate electricity, and the generated electricity is charged into a power storage unit 28 while ensuring the visibility of a display object 32 (sign). At the same time, a sensor unit 24 constantly monitors environmental data (CO2, temperature, humidity, smoke, etc.) in the installation area (hallway, etc.) and operates as an "environment monitoring terminal" that transmits the data to a management center via a communication unit 26.

[0063] Furthermore, if the commercial power supply is cut off due to a disaster or the like, the display device 100 automatically switches to "backup operation" using power supplied from the power storage unit 28. This allows the sensor unit 24 to continue monitoring the environment even during a power outage, and by turning on (or maintaining) the internal lighting fixtures, it functions as an "emergency light" that indicates the location of an evacuation exit in the dark.

[0064] With the above configuration, the display device 100 has the following effects. First, it eliminates the need for power supply construction, improving installation flexibility. Because this device is equipped with an independent power supply system, it can be easily retrofitted to ceilings or walls where it is difficult to secure a power source, simply by physically fixing it in place. Second, it ensures high safety in emergencies. By storing the electricity generated during normal times, the guide signs can remain lit even during power outages caused by earthquakes or fires, ensuring that they can perform their intended role of guiding people to evacuation sites.

[0065] Third, it can eliminate "blind spots in environmental monitoring" within a building. Conventionally, air conditioning management and sensor installation have often been overlooked in moving spaces (corridors and staircases), but a sensor network can be built using guide signs, which are legally required to be installed, thereby improving the safety and comfort of the entire building without occupying additional space.

[0066] Fourth, it is possible to achieve both sign visibility and power generation efficiency. Because the highly translucent power generator 14 covers the front surface as the cover 16, it is possible to efficiently generate electricity by utilizing the wide light-receiving area without impairing the sign visibility required by the Fire Service Act and other regulations.

[0067] [Fourth embodiment] In this embodiment, the display device 100 is a frame device 60 for displaying pictures, photographs, posters, certificates, etc. Fig. 5 is an exploded perspective view showing the frame device 60, which is the display device 100 according to a fourth embodiment.

[0068] The display device 100 of this embodiment includes a display unit 22, a cover unit 16, a sensor unit 24, a communication unit 26, a power storage unit 28, and a power control unit 30.

[0069] The display unit 22 is composed of a static display object 32 such as a paper medium or film, a back plate 40 for holding it, and a mounting member (not shown). In this embodiment, the display object 32 is a printed material such as a photograph, painting, award certificate, certificate, or poster. It may also be an original painting such as a hand-drawn painting or illustration.

[0070] The cover 16 has a frame 38 and the power generator 14 placed inside the frame 38. The frame 38 may be made of wood, resin, metal, or the like. The power generator 14 may be made of translucent power-generating glass.

[0071] The sensor unit 24, communication unit 26, power storage unit 28, and power control unit 30 are disposed on the rear side of the display device 100, behind the rear panel 40. The sensor unit 24, communication unit 26, power storage unit 28, and power control unit 30 may be housed in a small housing or unit box provided on the rear side of the rear panel 40. The housing 34 may be thin so as not to get in the way when hung on a wall, or may be disposed in a position that is hidden when the stand is used.

[0072] The display device 100 having the above configuration is used as follows. To install, the user removes the back panel 40 and places a display object 32, such as a photograph, certificate, or painting, inside, just like a regular picture frame, and places it on a wall or shelf. Since the power generator 14 and power storage unit 28 enable completely cordless operation, the display device 100 is not tied to the location of an electrical outlet and does not detract from the aesthetics of the device due to wiring. During operation, the display device 100 performs a "display function" that allows the display object 32 to be clearly viewed through the power generator 14 (transparent power-generating glass), while simultaneously performing a "monitoring function" that uses power generated from incident light to monitor the indoor environment 24 hours a day using the sensor unit 24.

[0073] A specific example of its use is as a "certificate frame" in a school classroom. The certificate frame, hung on the wall, measures the CO2 concentration and temperature and humidity in the classroom, and when the level reaches a level where ventilation is necessary, it notifies the staff room via the communication unit 26, contributing to students' learning efficiency and maintaining their health. Furthermore, in museums and private collection exhibitions, it functions as glass to protect paintings, while also monitoring the temperature, humidity, and ultraviolet light levels (which can be estimated from the amount of power generated) around the artwork, and is used as a data collection terminal to prevent deterioration of the artwork.

[0074] With the above configuration, the display device 100 has the following effects. First, environmental sensors can be installed in a way that blends naturally into living or office spaces. Unlike conventional sensors with inorganic plastic housings, the act of "displaying a photo" or "posting a certificate" itself constitutes installation of the sensor. This allows for IAQ (indoor air quality) management without giving users the oppressive feeling of being monitored, and while maintaining the design of the space.

[0075] Secondly, it solves the issue of power wiring, dramatically increasing the flexibility of wall installation. The biggest problem with wall-mounted installations, "dangling power cords," is solved by using energy harvesting, so IoT systems can be easily installed without wiring work even in hotels, museums, luxury homes, and other places where aesthetics are a top priority.

[0076] Third, efficient power generation is possible by taking advantage of the large display area. Picture frames and poster frames have a relatively large surface area, and this device uses the entire front surface as the light-receiving surface. This allows for an overwhelmingly larger amount of power to be generated compared to a small solar cell mounted on a small device, and it can stably operate the communication unit 26, such as Wi-Fi, even in a weak, scattered light environment indoors.

[0077] The embodiments are merely examples, and it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications are possible and that such modifications are also included in the underlying technology. [Explanation of symbols]

[0078] 14 power generating body, 16 cover section, 22 display section, 24 sensor section, 26 communication section, 28 power storage section, 30 power control section, 32 display object, 100 display device.

Claims

1. a display unit on which a display object is displayed; a cover portion disposed on the visible side of the display portion and having a power generating body that transmits light; a sensor unit having an indoor air quality sensor; a communication unit that acquires information from the sensor unit and communicates with an external device; a power storage unit that stores the power generated by the power generation body; a power control unit that adjusts the power from the power generation unit or the power storage unit and supplies the adjusted power to the sensor unit and the communication unit; A display device comprising:

2. 2. The display device according to claim 1, the display unit has an electronic display unit that displays information electrically, The display device is characterized in that the displayed object is image data or video data displayed on the electronic display unit.

3. 2. The display device according to claim 1, The display object is a static medium that presents visual information, A display device comprising a housing mechanism for housing the medium.

4. 2. The display device according to claim 1, The display is a guidance sign, A display device characterized by having a structure that allows it to be installed on either a wall or a ceiling.

5. 2. The display device according to claim 1, a housing that houses the sensor unit, the communication unit, the power storage unit, and the power control unit; The display device is characterized in that the housing supports the display unit and the cover unit.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Glass brick with luminescent solar concentrator for the production of electrical energy

    JP2022510507A