Portable dynamic display devices and systems

Abstract

A portable display device and system is provided that is not limited to placement due to the presence of utility power and avoids the tripping hazard that utility power cords can present. The portable display device includes a freestanding housing, a digital display screen attached to the housing and visible from outside the housing, and a rechargeable battery provided within the housing, the rechargeable battery configured to power the digital display screen, thereby enabling the digital display screen to display media thereon.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to display devices and systems, and more particularly, but not exclusively, to portable electronic advertising display systems. [Background technology]

[0002] A-frames are commonly used for advertising and signage because they are a simple, safe (stable) and inexpensive way to communicate information to passersby. These A-frames are particularly common in parking lots, stadiums and storefronts for advertising and providing information.

[0003] A-frames typically have two display surfaces, which are hinged, allowing the A-frame surfaces to fold together for transport. The display surfaces may be equipped with chalk or whiteboards on which the owner can write messages. However, printed images are now more commonly used, as they generally better communicate messages to passersby.

[0004] The problem with prior art A-frames is that they are generally difficult to update. With chalk or whiteboards, writing a message in a way that looks good is time-consuming. With printed images, the display surface of the A-frame generally must be replaced.

[0005] In recent years, light-emitting diode (LED) display screens have been used for advertising because they offer great flexibility in how advertisements and messages can be displayed and can easily be used to show different messages over time. However, the use of this type of LED display is much more limited than A-frames when it comes to power requirements. Furthermore, outdoor use of this type of display is particularly problematic, especially because this type of display is generally flat and therefore not easily installed in windy environments.

[0006] As such, LED display screens are often provided for permanent or semi-permanent installation, for example on a wall or on a specially constructed support. This significantly limits the use of these screens and increases the costs associated with installing this type of LED display screen. As an illustrative example, a fixed installation (permanent or semi-permanent) has the significant visual limitation of an A-frame that can be moved around as desired.

[0007] Thus, a need clearly exists for improved display devices and systems.

[0008] Where prior art publications are referred to herein, it should be expressly understood that this reference does not constitute an admission that the publications form part of the common general knowledge in the art in Australia or any other country. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0009] The present invention is directed to display devices and systems that can at least partially overcome at least one of the above-mentioned disadvantages or provide consumers with a useful or commercial choice. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] In one form, the invention broadly resides in a portable display device comprising a freestanding housing, a digital display screen attached to the housing and visible from outside the housing, and a rechargeable battery provided within the housing, the rechargeable battery configured to power the digital display screen thereby enabling the digital display screen to display media thereon.

[0011] Advantageously, the display device includes a rechargeable battery for powering the display screen, and therefore does not require mains power to power the display screen, which simplifies placement of the display device and avoids the potential tripping hazard of mains power cords.

[0012] Preferably, the battery is provided within the base of the housing. By providing a rechargeable battery within the base of the housing, the housing has a low center of gravity, which in turn can reduce the likelihood of the portable display device tipping over.

[0013] Preferably, the housing is substantially sealed. Advantageously, this type of arrangement prevents the housing from catching wind, unlike a flat display panel which can catch wind like a sail.

[0014] Preferably, the housing is substantially weatherproof. Suitably, the housing is waterproof so as to allow the display device to be used in the rain.

[0015] Preferably, the digital display screen display surface may comprise or be near the exterior surface of the housing, and a protective transparent cover, such as an acrylic or polycarbonate cover, may protect the display screen from physical damage.

[0016] Preferably, the base of the housing is wider in at least one dimension than the top of the housing.

[0017] Preferably, the housing is substantially triangular in cross section. The housing may comprise a beveled surface. The housing may comprise first and second beveled surfaces. The first and second beveled surfaces may be inclined in opposite directions. The housing may be substantially symmetrical. The first and second beveled surfaces may be angled at an acute angle to each other. Suitably, the housing comprises an A-frame.

[0018] The housing may be substantially defined by a planar panel.

[0019] The display device may include first and second digital display screens. The first and second display screens may be on opposite sides of the housing. The first and second display screens may be angled at an acute angle to each other.

[0020] Preferably, the housing includes one or more wheels to simplify movement of the display device. The wheels may be lockable.

[0021] Preferably, the display device comprises a wireless data interface, the wireless data interface configured to allow media to be displayed on the display screen and updated wirelessly.

[0022] The wireless data interface may include WiFi and / or a cellular data interface (e.g., 4G). The wireless data interface may provide an internet connection to the display device.

[0023] The display device may include a unique identifier, and media displayed on the display screen may be updated using the unique identifier. This type of configuration allows a user to easily select which of potentially many display devices should be updated.

[0024] The display device may be configured to retrieve media from a remote server for display on the display screen. The display device may be configured to retrieve media according to a URL. The display device may be configured to retrieve media according to a unique identifier associated with the display device. The display device may be configured to periodically retrieve media.

[0025] The display device may include one or more sensors configured to capture data about its surroundings. The display device may be configured to upload the captured sensor data to a central server. The display device may be configured to share the captured sensor data with other display devices.

[0026] The sensors may include environmental sensors (eg, temperature and / or humidity sensors).

[0027] The display device may be configured to generate media for display according to the captured sensor data. As an illustrative example, the display device may be configured to display the ambient temperature or humidity detected by the sensor.

[0028] The sensor may include an image capture sensor such as a camera. The display device may be configured to upload image data captured by the sensor to a server. The display device may allow remote viewing from the display device. The image data may comprise a still image or video. The camera may include an associated microphone, or a stand-alone microphone may be provided.

[0029] The sensors may include a people / traffic counter configured to count people.

[0030] The sensor may include a light sensor. The display device may be configured to brighten or dim the display screen according to sensor data from the light sensor. This type of configuration allows battery power to be conserved because the screen is not unnecessarily bright.

[0031] The display device may include one or more speakers configured to emit sound. The sound may correspond to an image or video on the display. The sound may be configured to attract attention (e.g., a chime or bell). Similarly, the speaker may provide standalone information, potentially in multiple languages, such as alerting customers of parking lot closing times or informing passengers of terminal changes at an airport.

[0032] The display device may include one or more microphones.

[0033] The display device may be configured to communicate with one or more other display devices. The display device may be configured to receive data from one or more other display devices.

[0034] The display device may be activated by sensing motion. The display device may enter a low power mode when no motion is detected and may enter a normal power mode when motion is detected. A function of the display device may be activated when motion is detected.

[0035] In another aspect, the invention resides generally in a system comprising a plurality of portable display devices in communication with a computing device, each of the portable display devices being configurable by the computing device.

[0036] The computing device may communicate with each of the portable display devices by way of the Internet.

[0037] Multiple portable display devices may work together. As an illustrative example, a counter may be provided on each of the portable display devices, with each portable display device displaying the aggregate count from each of the individual counters. Similarly, one display may be configured to count people entering an area, another display may be configured to count people leaving the area, and one display may be configured to display the difference of the two (which is the number of people in the area).

[0038] Any of the features described herein may be incorporated in any combination with any one or more of the other features described herein within the scope of the present invention.

[0039] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as, an admission or any suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.

[0040] Various embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the following drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0041] [Figure 1] 1 is a front view of a portable display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a side view of the portable display device of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] 2 is an exploded view of a portion of the housing of the portable display device of FIG. 1. [Figure 4] 1 is a simplified schematic diagram of a portable display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 illustrates a display system including multiple portable display devices according to one embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0042] Preferred features, embodiments, and variations of the present invention can be understood from the following detailed description, which provides sufficient information for those skilled in the art to practice the invention, and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the above summary in any way.

[0043] Figure 1 shows a front view of a portable display device 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 shows a side view of portable display device 100. Portable display device 100 provides a simple, secure, and effective means of conveying information, such as advertising, as outlined below.

[0044] Portable display device 100 includes a freestanding housing 105 to which a digital display screen 110 is attached so that the screen 110 is visible from outside the housing 105. In this manner, portable display device 100 can function like an A-frame display, except that it has an electronic display screen.

[0045] 3 shows an exploded view of a portion of housing 105, which comprises interconnected frame members 105a with angled surfaces 105b attached thereto. First and second angled surfaces 105b are inclined in opposite directions, defining housing 105 that is substantially triangular in cross section.

[0046] Each of the bevels 105b includes a rectangular window portion 105b' defined therein through which the corresponding display screen 110 is visible. In particular, the digital display screen 110 is mounted inside the frame so that the face of the digital display screen 110 is directly adjacent to, and thereby closes, the window portion 105b'.

[0047] A protective transparent cover (not shown), such as an acrylic or polycarbonate cover (e.g., Perspex), may be provided in front of the digital display screen 110 to protect the display screen from physical damage. In such a case, the transparent cover may be used to seal the window portion 105b' in a waterproof (or water-resistant) manner.

[0048] Those skilled in the art will readily recognize that any suitable size window may be used, ranging from a relatively small window (for a small screen) to a window that fills almost an entire side of display device 100. Similarly, advertising or other information may be provided adjacent to the window.

[0049] The base 105' of the housing 105 is wide (wider than the top of the housing 105) and defines a battery-receiving channel 105c for receiving one or more rechargeable batteries therein, and thus within the base 105' of the housing 105. The channel 105c helps to secure the battery, thereby ensuring that the battery does not move within the housing 105, even when the housing 105 is tilted.

[0050] The rechargeable battery is configured to power the digital display screen 110, thereby enabling the digital display screen to display media thereon. In this manner, the portable display device 100 does not require mains power to power the display screen 110. This simplifies placement of the display device 100 and avoids the trip hazard that mains power cords can present. In short, wherever a traditional A-frame sign can be used, the portable display device 100 can be used.

[0051] Furthermore, by providing the rechargeable battery within the base 105' of the housing 105, the housing 105 has a very low center of gravity, which, together with the wide base 105', ensures that the portable display device 100 is less likely to tip over, even if bumped.

[0052] First and second side panels 105d are coupled to opposite sides of the housing 105 and may be removed to access the interior of the housing 105 (e.g., to install or replace a battery). Finally, a top cap 105e is provided on the top of the housing 105. The top cap 105e functions to provide rigidity to the housing and provides a water-resistant top surface.

[0053] When the first and second side panels 105d are installed, and when the display screen 110 is in place, the housing 105 is substantially sealed and substantially weatherproof. This not only protects the electronic components inside the housing 105 from the weather, allowing the display device 100 to be used in the rain, but also prevents the housing 105 from catching wind, unlike a flat display panel that can catch wind like a sail.

[0054] 3, the housing 105 includes wheels 115 on each of the four corners of the base 115' to simplify movement of the display device (since it can be rolled in place rather than carried). The wheels 115 are lockable and keep the portable display device 100 in place.

[0055] 3, housing 105 includes a handle 120 on top cap 105e to provide a grip to assist in maneuvering portable display device 100. The handle can also be used to secure portable display device 100 to another object or thing, for example, using a chain and lock.

[0056] The housing 105 is defined by frame members 105a comprising aluminum box sections onto which planar aluminum sheet members are attached (e.g., by welding or other fastening). The housing 105 is substantially defined by these planar sheet members (panels) which provide a sturdy yet lightweight housing. In particular, the sheet members reinforce the frame members 105a.

[0057] The housing 105 houses the electronic components that provide functionality for the display screen, including the ability to update media (content) for display on the display screen, as well as various other functions as outlined below.

[0058] 4 shows a simplified schematic diagram of a portable display device 400 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Portable display device 400 may be similar to or identical to portable display device 100.

[0059] Portable display device 400 includes a processor 405 coupled to a display 410. Processor 405 is configured to define what is displayed on the display, allowing different things to be displayed at different times.

[0060] The memory 415 is coupled to the processor 405 and contains instruction code executable by the processor to perform the functions of the display device. The memory may further contain graphics, images or videos for display on the display 410.

[0061] Portable display device 400 further includes a wireless data interface 420 coupled to processor 405. Wireless data interface 420 may include WiFi and / or a cellular data interface (e.g., 4G) and allows portable display device 400 to communicate with computing devices and / or other display devices 400. In particular, the wireless data interface allows for remote configuration of portable display device 400, including updating display 410.

[0062] A plurality of sensors 425 are coupled to processor 405 and configured to capture data regarding the surroundings of portable display device 400. Sensors 425 may include environmental sensors, such as temperature and / or humidity sensors, to capture environmental data regarding the environment of portable display device 400.

[0063] The processor 405 may be configured to generate media for display on the display 410 according to the captured sensor data. As an illustrative example, the display device may be configured to display the ambient temperature or humidity detected by the sensor so that passersby can see the ambient temperature and / or humidity level.

[0064] The sensor 425 may also include an image capture sensor, such as a camera. The processor 405 may be configured to upload image data (e.g., still images or video) to a server using a wireless data interface. The display device 400 may also allow on-demand remote viewing from the display device.

[0065] Sensor 425 may include a thermal camera or virtual thermometer configured to capture the temperature of a person passing by and may issue an alert if the person's temperature exceeds a certain threshold. This type of configuration is useful during pandemics, such as the recent Covid-19 pandemic, as it allows people with high temperatures to be automatically identified. Similarly, sensor 425 may sense other physiological characteristics of a person, including heart rate, respiration rate, or any other suitable physiological characteristic.

[0066] Additionally, sensors 425 may include a people / traffic counter configured to count people passing by the portable display device or entering or exiting an area, for example. This type of information may also be uploaded to a server using wireless data interface 420 or may be used locally on portable display device 400. As an illustrative example, a message may be displayed on display 410 until a certain number of people have been counted, and then updated.

[0067] Furthermore, the sensor 425 may include a light sensor configured to capture the ambient light level surrounding the portable display device 400. The processor 405 may brighten or dim the display 410 according to the sensor data from the light sensor. This type of configuration can conserve battery power and improve aesthetics because the screen is not unnecessarily bright.

[0068] The sensor 425 may include a motion sensor. The display device may sense motion and activate. The display device may enter a low power mode when no motion is detected and may enter a normal power mode when motion is detected. When motion is detected, a function of the display device may be activated.

[0069] Finally, sensors 425 may include one or more anti-theft sensors. In the illustrated example, the sensors may include tilt and motion sensors to detect unauthorized movement of the display. If unauthorized movement is detected, an alarm may sound and the alarm may be transmitted wirelessly to the user device. Image data may be captured and uploaded along with the display to identify any perpetrators.

[0070] Portable display device 400 includes a speaker 430 configured to emit sound. The sound may correspond to an image or video on the display, or may be configured to attract attention (e.g., using a chime or bell).

[0071] Finally, portable display device 400 includes a rechargeable battery 435 configured to power portable display device 400. The use of a rechargeable battery alleviates the need to use mains power to power portable display device 400, which provides greater flexibility in when device 400 can be used.

[0072] Those skilled in the art will readily recognize that portable display device 400 is illustrated in a simplified manner for clarity and will generally include a variety of other components including data ports, charging ports, switches, wiring, charging circuitry, inverters, transformers, step-up and step-down regulators, wiring, circuitry, connectors, etc.

[0073] Additionally, portable display device 400 may be updated to include various other features or elements as desired. As an illustrative example, portable display device may include a solar panel coupled to a battery and configured to charge the battery.

[0074] Similarly, components are described in general terms but may take any suitable number of forms. As an illustrative example, display 410 may comprise an LED dot matrix display. Similarly, memory may comprise a variety of memory types, including a combination of memory types (e.g., memory on a graphics card or graphics memory, temporary memory such as RAM, and non-temporary memory such as a hard disk).

[0075] 2, housing 105 includes various ports and openings that allow the components therein to function. In device 100, these are all provided on one side panel 105d, but in other embodiments may be provided in any suitable location.

[0076] The housing 105 includes speaker perforations 125 defined in the side panel 105d to allow sound from a speaker mounted in association therewith to be efficiently projected from the portable display device.

[0077] Perforations 125 may be punched into the panel 105d and a mesh, for example a waterproof mesh, may be provided in association with the perforations.

[0078] A sensor array 130 is provided directly below the speaker perforations 125 and incorporates sensors for the portable display device 100. As outlined above, the sensors may include a camera, a people counter, a thermometer, and a humidity sensor, but may include any suitable sensors.

[0079] The sensor array 130 may allow a user to point the sensors, for example, via a pivot joint or mechanism. Alternatively, the sensor array may be configurable to focus in a particular direction.

[0080] In addition to being able to configure portable display device 100 remotely via a wireless interface, an Ethernet socket 135 and a USB socket 140 are provided to provide a local cable interface, which is particularly useful when portable display device 100 is first configured or when a substantial software update is provided.

[0081] A bay for a switch 145 is provided on panel 105d to allow portable display device 100 to be turned on and off, as well as to allow each of screens 110 to be individually turned on and off. A safety cover may be provided over switch 145 to prevent unauthorized persons from turning off display device 100.

[0082] A mains power port 150 is provided to enable the battery to be charged, and a charge controller 155 is provided in association therewith. The charge controller 155 includes a status light to allow the user to know the charge status of the battery.

[0083] While any suitable combination of battery and charge controller may be used, in one embodiment the battery is sized to provide approximately 18 hours of power with a recharge time of approximately 6 hours or less, allowing portable display device 100 to be used approximately 18 hours per day, every day.

[0084] While the above examples describe display devices configured to communicate information to passersby, in other examples the devices may be interactive and allow passersby to input data. As an illustrative example, the display may comprise a touch screen display with which a user can interact.

[0085] In such cases, the display device may function as an information kiosk, and a user may interact with the display device to obtain information. The information may be categorized according to a menu, and the user may select one of multiple options to make a selection. Similarly, the information may be dynamically updated based on the time of day. As an illustrative example, the display device may function as an information kiosk for an event showing what is happening at each of multiple stages. The information kiosk may be interactive so that the user can obtain more information. This scenario is particularly suited to a touch screen, but any other type of user input may be used.

[0086] As outlined above, the wireless data interface 420 allows the portable display device 100, 400 to communicate with a central server and / or other display devices 100, 400.

[0087] 5 illustrates a display system 500 including multiple portable display devices 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The display devices 100 are configured to communicate with one or more other display devices 100 and with a remote server 505 over the Internet.

[0088] As outlined above, the display device 100 includes multiple sensors configured to collect data about its surroundings. As an illustrative example, the display device 100 may capture data about a person 510 in the vicinity of the display device 100. This type of data may include simply measuring the presence of the person 510, for example using a counter, or any method of identifying the person, for example using a physical characteristic of the person (such as facial recognition) or using a device associated with the person (such as a smartphone).

[0089] The display device 100 may send details of the people to the server 505 for further processing. This may include recording the presence of the people (i.e., generally the number of people), and may include characteristics of the people or devices associated with the people.

[0090] An administrator 515 can log on to the server 505 using a computing device 520, such as a laptop computer. The server 505 may include a web interface whereby the server's data is accessible through a web page. In this manner, the administrator 515 can collect data and statistics from each of the multiple display devices 100.

[0091] The administrator 515 can further update each of the display devices 100, e.g., the content displayed on the display devices 100. This can be done individually using an identifier associated with one of the display devices 100, or as a group. This can ultimately be accomplished in a variety of ways. In one embodiment, the display devices 100 can be configured to retrieve media to be displayed on the display screen from a remote server 505, e.g., using a URL or a unique identifier associated with the display device 100. In this manner, the administrator 515 can update the content on the server 505, thereby updating the content displayed on the display devices 100.

[0092] A display device 100 may be configured to receive data from one or more other display devices 100. As an illustrative example, a first display device 100 may capture identification data of a person 510 and provide it to a second display device 100. The second display device 100 may then attempt to identify whether the same person 510 is in the vicinity of the second display device. This type of configuration may be capable of tracking a person's movements across multiple display devices 100, which may be in a relatively wide geographic area.

[0093] Additionally, multiple portable display devices 100 may work together. As an illustrative example, a counter may be provided for each portable display system, with each portable display system displaying the aggregate count from each of the individual counters. This type of configuration may be useful in a stadium where a display device 100 is placed at each entrance to count people entering the stadium, but where a total number of people (e.g., the total number of people in the stadium) is being counted.

[0094] Similarly, one display device 100 may be configured to count people entering an area, another display device 100 may be configured to count people leaving the area, and one display may be configured to display the difference between the two (which is the number of people in the area). In such a case, the display device 100 may indicate when the area has reached capacity. This type of configuration may also be adapted to count vehicles to inform drivers when the parking lot is full.

[0095] In addition to being configurable to display particular media, a display device may be configured to display different media or content according to one or more criteria or in a sequence. As an illustrative example, different media may be played according to the time of day. In another example, different media may be played according to ambient temperature. In yet another example, different media (e.g., different languages) may be played in a particular sequence.

[0096] Advantageously, the above-mentioned display device , Me Messages, e.g. advertisements CommunicateThe present invention provides a simple, safe, and effective means for portable display devices to be easily mounted on a wall or wall outlet. Because no mains power is required to power the display screen, positioning of the display device is greatly simplified and potential tripping hazards associated with mains power cords are avoided. Furthermore, by providing a rechargeable battery within the base of the housing, the housing has a low center of gravity, which in turn significantly reduces the likelihood of the portable display device tipping over.

[0097] Additionally, the display systems and devices described above may incorporate various levels of intelligence, allowing the information displayed thereon to be updated in a more streamlined manner, as well as enabling data collection. Additionally, the cooperation of multiple display devices allows complex data, including movement across an area and data from multiple different areas, to be captured and considered as a whole.

[0098] Advantageously, the display of a display device may be updated without requiring physical contact with the display device, which is more efficient. Multiple display devices may be updated simultaneously and remotely, which is useful when information is updated without warning, for example in an emergency situation.

[0099] Display devices have wide applicability from airports to parking lots to stadiums and storefronts, however, those skilled in the art will readily recognize that display devices can be used in any suitable location where information is to be conveyed.

[0100] The display devices can be updated in real time so that they can provide the public with up-to-date information, such as road closures and accident information, and even alternative detour routes. Similarly, several display devices can be used together to provide directions (guides) to a person.

[0101] Furthermore, for events and stadiums, directions to available seats can be updated and provided in real time as seats fill up. Similarly, when tickets are sold out or seats are full, information can be provided at an early stage to avoid disappointment.

[0102] Finally, the display device may collect other data for statistics and analysis. As an illustrative example, a retailer may use the system to determine the percentage of people in the retailer's vicinity who actually visit the retailer (e.g., enter a store).

[0103] In the present specification and claims (if any), the term "comprises" and its derivatives include each of the stated integers but do not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers.

[0104] Throughout this specification, references to "one embodiment" mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearances of the phrase "in one embodiment" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations.

[0105] In accordance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or organizational features. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the specific features shown or described, since the means herein described comprise preferred forms of carrying out the invention. The invention is therefore claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims, if any, as appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A weatherproof portable display device, a freestanding housing including two beveled surfaces angled at an acute angle to one another, the housing being substantially sealed and weatherproof; a digital display screen mounted within and relative to the housing and visible from outside the housing; one or more sensors configured to capture data about the surroundings of the portable display device, the one or more sensors including an image capture sensor configured to capture image data; a wireless data interface contained within the housing and coupled to the display screen and the one or more sensors via a processor, the wireless data interface configured to: 1) enable media to be displayed on the display screen and updated remotely; 2) upload captured sensor data to a central server or a remote computing device; and 3) receive sensor data from one or more other display devices regarding the surroundings of the one or more other display devices, enabling the display device and the one or more other display devices to collaborate on one or more combined tasks; a rechargeable battery provided within a base of the housing, the base being a lower portion of the housing, the lower portion of the housing being wider than the upper portion of the housing; the rechargeable battery is configured to power the digital display screen, thereby enabling the digital display screen to display media thereon; A portable display device, wherein the received sensor data includes identification data of people already present in the vicinity of the one or more other display devices, and the processor is configured to use the identification data to determine whether the people are in the vicinity of the portable display device.

2. 10. The portable display device of claim 1, wherein the digital display screen has a faceplate that comprises an exterior surface of the housing or is adjacent to the exterior surface of the housing.

3. 10. The portable display device of claim 1, wherein said display device includes first and second digital display screens on opposite sides of said housing.

4. 10. The portable display device of claim 1, wherein said display device includes a unique identifier, and wherein said media displayed on said display screen is remotely updatable using said unique identifier.

5. 10. The portable display device of claim 1, wherein the display device is configured to retrieve media to be displayed on the display screen from a remote server.

6. 10. The portable display device of claim 1, wherein the display device is configured to share captured sensor data with other display devices.

7. 10. The portable display device of claim 1, wherein the display device is configured to generate media for display according to the captured sensor data.

8. 10. The portable display device of claim 1, wherein the display device is configured to upload image data captured by the sensor to a server or a remote computing device.

9. 10. The portable display device of claim 1, wherein the portable display device is configured to allow remote viewing from the display device.

10. 10. The portable display device of claim 1, wherein the sensor comprises a people / traffic counter configured to count people.

11. 10. The portable display device of claim 1, wherein the sensor may include a light sensor, and the display device is configured to brighten or dim the display screen according to sensor data from the light sensor.

12. 10. A system comprising a plurality of portable display devices according to claim 1 in communication with a computing device, each of said portable display devices being configurable by said computing device.

13. 13. The system of claim 12, wherein the plurality of portable display devices each include a sensor, and two or more of the plurality of portable display devices cooperate on a task such as counting people.

14. 13. The system of claim 12, wherein one portable display device of the plurality of portable display devices is configured to capture sensor data and share the captured sensor data with other portable display devices of the plurality of portable display devices.

15. 13. The system of claim 12, wherein the system includes a server or a remote computing device, and wherein one portable display device of the plurality of portable display devices is configured to upload image data captured by the one or more sensors to the server or the remote computing device.

16. A portable display device as described in claim 1, configured to use facial recognition and the identification data of the person to determine whether the person is in the vicinity of the portable display device.

Images