Embedded Light Arrays for Athletic Surface Advertising
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional scoreboard systems in athletic venues obstruct spectators' views and divert attention from the action, while static advertising on surfaces is costly and ineffective in capturing viewers' attention.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising embedded light arrays within athletic surfaces, controlled by a computerized system to display information and advertisements through the surface, allowing dynamic and attention-catching visuals without obstructing views.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If scoreboards are mounted above or alongside athletic surfaces, then information display is achieved, but spectators' views are partially blocked and attention is diverted from the action
Solution Approach 1:
The patent moves the display from a traditional elevated scoreboard position to the two-dimensional plane of the athletic surface itself. By embedding light arrays within the surface (basketball court, tennis court, boxing ring, etc.), information is displayed in the plane of action rather than above it, eliminating view obstruction while maintaining information delivery to spectators.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a visual copy of information directly on the athletic surface through light arrays, rather than using a separate physical scoreboard. The light arrays project team names, scores, and advertisements onto the surface, allowing spectators to see information without the physical obstruction of a mounted scoreboard structure.
2Loss of information
If advertising is painted or adhered directly to athletic surfaces, then advertising display is achieved, but the advertising becomes worn and faded and is difficult and costly to replace
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms static painted advertising into dynamic, changeable advertising through electronically controllable light arrays. Advertisements can be updated remotely and instantly by changing the light patterns, eliminating the need for physical repainting or replacement. The system allows for dynamic content updates without manual intervention on the athletic surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical process of painting or adhering physical advertising materials with an electronic light-based display system. Instead of using paint, vinyl, or other physical media that wear and require replacement, the system uses controllable light arrays that can be programmed to display different advertisements electronically, eliminating mechanical replacement needs.
3Loss of information
If static advertising is applied to athletic surfaces, then advertising display is achieved, but it doesn't capture viewers' attention and is too costly for many companies to afford
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic and variable light patterns in the advertising display, creating dynamic visual effects that capture viewer attention. The light arrays can flash, pulse, change colors, and update content at different intervals, transforming static advertising into an engaging, attention-grabbing experience that is more effective than traditional static displays.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes multiple controllable parameters of the light arrays including intensity, color, duration, and pattern to create varied and engaging advertisements. By changing these parameters dynamically, the system can create eye-catching displays that capture viewer attention while offering multiple advertising configurations to suit different budgets and objectives, improving cost-effectiveness.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides unobstructed viewing of athletic events while enabling cost-effective and dynamic advertising, easily changeable to suit different schedules and events, enhancing viewer engagement.
Implementation Method 1
each light array comprises a plurality of linearly-aligned light-emitting diodes (LEDs) or other lights
Implementation Method 2
one or more light guides positioned adjacent each of the lights and extending upwardly through a portion of the athletic surface to direct light from the lights through the top layer of the athletic surface
Data Source
AI summary
A system for displaying information on a basketball court, boxing ring or other athletic surface. The system includes: a plurality of light arrays configured to be embedded in a top layer of the athletic surface and oriented to emit light upwards through the athletic surface; and a control system for selectively controlling activation of the light arrays to display advertising and other information in the athletic surface.