Systems and methods for using billboards

Abstract

 A billboard system for displaying information, the billboard system comprising a base portion (100)permanently fixable at a position where the billboard system is to be used, the base portion (100) comprising a first connection means. The billboard system also comprises a display module (200) switchably connectable to the base portion (100) via the first connection means. The first connection means is thereby suitable for connecting a display module of a first type as well as for connecting a display module of a second, different, type.

Description

Field of the invention

[0001] The invention relates to the field of displaying of information. More specifically it relates to a system and method for displaying information on billboards in a flexible and safe way.

Background of the invention

[0002] Today's billboard systems are known in two different categories. A billboard with a paperlike medium either being a fixed poster or a rolling poster for showing different pictures, and a billboard making use of an electronic imaging system.

[0003] A number of different designs of billboards based on a paperlike medium are known. From Korean patent application KR20070112434, it is known to provide a billboard with a printing unit, a pre-processing unit and a controller installed. The pre-processing unit cleans a previous advertisement material printed on the billboard. The printing unit is installed to print images on the billboard. The pre-processing unit includes a cleaning unit comprises guiding units for cleaning the previous advertisement by spraying a liquid solvent or coats the surface of the billboard with a white paint.

[0004] Billboards making use of an electronic imaging system, may for example be based on LED, OLED or LCD display technology.

[0005] The type of billboard that is used may typically be decided based on the location where the billboard is situated and the type of message that is to be displayed. Furthermore, with some of the emerging display technologies used in billboards, also the displaying conditions, e.g. environmental conditions or the need for more energy efficient displays, may have an effect on the type of display technology that is to be used. If the type of billboard technology that is to be used is to be changed, typically intensive works have to be done, such as for example installing new cabling, providing new foundation and providing new display hardware.

[0006] As billboards typically are placed at places where busy traffic occurs because of the increased visibility at those positions, technicians that need to perform the switch in billboard technology typically are exposed to the danger of closely passing traffic. There is still room for an improved method and system for using different types of Billboard display technologies at a certain position.

[0007] In French patent FR2806864 a billboard is discussed having in its base a computer system, power supply and data connection. The system provides the possibility to change the display content.

[0008] In Malaysian patent MY-141544-A a billboard with a double functionality inside the same device is described. The billboard typically is adapted for showing a printed poster during daytime and for providing LED signs during nighttime.

Summary of the invention

[0009] It is an object of embodiments of the present invention to provide a method and system for efficiently switching the type of billboard display technology that is used for a billboard or for efficiently maintaining a billboard system at a given location.

[0010] It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that the billboard system technology used for a billboard at a given location can be easily switched.

[0011] It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that switching the billboard system technology or maintaining the billboard system can be performed in a safe manner, with a low or reduced risk for the technician that needs to alter the billboard system technology.

[0012] It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that maintaining a billboard system or switching a billboard technology used can be at least partly done from inside a vehicle, assisting in a reduced risk for the technician that performs the task.

[0013] It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that the system is tamper resistant.

[0014] It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that the system is inherently protected against theft.

[0015] It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that the billboard system technology used can be easily adapted to environmental conditions such as altering weather conditions. For example, some electronic display technologies can only be used within a certain temperature range, but may within this temperature range be preferred because of their good displaying results.

[0016] It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that the billboard system technology can be efficiently switched at a given location, e.g. depending on the content to be displayed and/or depending on the wishes and possibilities of the advertiser.

[0017] It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that maintenance of billboard systems can efficiently be performed off-site, by efficiently removing and/or replacing a billboard module from or at the billboard base.

[0018] The above objective is accomplished by a method and device according to the present invention.

[0019] The present invention relates to a billboard system for displaying information, the billboard system comprising
a base portion permanently fixable at a position where the billboard system is to be used, the base portion comprising a first connection means,
the first connection means being suitable for switchably connecting a display module of a first type based on at least a first type of display technology as well as being suitable for switchably connecting a display module of a second type based on at least a second type of display technology different from the first type.

[0020] The billboard system may comprise the display module, wherein the display moduleis switchably connectable to the base portion via the first connection means, the display module being of a first type based on at least a first type of display technology or of a second type based on at least a second type of display technology.

[0021] Where reference is made to different types of display technology, reference may be made to e.g. OLED based technology, LED based technology, poster-technology, rolling poster technology whereby different posters are shown by rolling different posters to the display area, LCD technology, or other types of technologies that can be used for billboards.

[0022] Where reference is made to a first connection means being suitable for connecting a display module of a first type as well as for connecting a display module of a second type, reference may be made to a first connection means that allows connecting subsequently to a display module of a first type and to a display module of a second type.

[0023] The first connection means may be adapted for powering as well as for data transmission for controlling the display module of the first type and the display module of the second type.

[0024] The base portion thus may be adapted for attaching and connecting to different types of technologies.

[0025] The first connection means may comprise a powering unit for powering the display module. The first connection means also may comprise a control unit. Alternatively, the control unit may be part of the display module. Such a control unit may be for controlling the display module. The first connection means also may comprise a data unit for providing data to be displayed to a display module, e.g. for loading image or video data to be displayed to the display module.

[0026] The base portion may comprise an image or video processing means or the latter may be present in the display modules used. The image or video processing means thereby may be specific for particular display technologies used.

[0027] The first connection means also may be provided with other connectivity means, such as an Ethernet connection, e.g. for updating the information to be displayed. The first connection means or another component of the billboard system also may be provided with an information means, e.g. informing a party of the need for maintenance, e.g. sensed using one or more sensors sensing operational parameters of the display module or the billboard system as a whole.

[0028] The first connection means may co-operate with a second connection means being part of the display module for providing power as well as for transmitting control data for controlling the display module.

[0029] The billboard system also may comprise a locking means for connecting the display module and the base portion. Such a locking means may be an electromechanical lock or any other type of lock allowing locking of the display module to the base portion. The latter may assist in preventing theft and renders the system more tamper resistant. It also mechanically fixes and gives stability from the base and the display module, e.g. weather conditions like storm, earthquakes, vibrations from passing traffic.

[0030] The locking means of the billboard system may be adapted for being remotely controlled, such that remotely the lock can be opened or closed. It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that the remotely controlling of the lock can allow the person performing a switch of the display module or performing maintenance can reduce the time he must leave the truck and is subject to a larger safety risk. The locking means thus may be keyless opened to reduce the service time of the technician and/or to minimize the residence time in the dangerous traffic zone. The remotely controlled locking means may be based on RF ID signals or other type of remote control signals such as for example by radio control, infrared, Bluetooth, WIFI, etc.

[0031] The system furthermore may comprise a guiding system for guiding a proper aligning of the display module with respect to the base portion, such that a proper connection can be made. Such a guiding system may for example be one or more guiding pins, guiding rails, or other guiding features allowing aligning between the display module and the base portion.

[0032] The present invention also relates to a method for altering the display technology used in a billboard system, the method comprising

• removing a first display module of a first type based on a first display technology from a base portion thereby disconnecting the first display module from a connection means in the base portion for powering and controlling the first display module, and
• positioning a second display module of a second type based on a second display technology on the base portion thereby connecting the second display module with the connection means in the base portion for powering and controlling the second display module.

[0033] In one embodiment, the method may be a method for providing maintenance, whereby the first display module and the second display module are the same and wherein between said removing and said positioning, the first display module is serviced for maintenance.

[0034] Said removing in the method for altering the display module or for providing maintenance may comprise first unlocking a locking means between the first display module and the base portion. Such unlocking may be remotely controlled unlocking, such as for example using RFID or radio technology.

[0035] Said positioning in the method for altering the display module or for providing maintenance also may comprise locking a locking means between the second display module and the base portion. The latter may be performed e.g. automatically by an RFID system that activates the locking when one of the RFID components present in the maintenance equipment is removed from the site where the billboard system is located, e.g. by a maintenance truck comprising the RFID component departing from the area. Alternatively, the user, e.g. in the maintenance truck, may lock the system manually by remote control.

[0036] In one aspect, the present invention also relates to a billboard system for displaying information, the billboard system comprising an integrated printer for printing on a paperlike substrate, a supporting means for supporting the paperlike substrate, and a transporting means for transporting the paperlike substrate from the supporting means along or through the integrated printer for being printed and towards a displaying position for displaying information printed on the paperlike substrate. With integrated printer there is meant a printer that is integrated in or connected to the billboard. It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention to provide a billboard which allows fast switching of the images to be shown. Furthermore, it is advantageous that such a billboard system does not need to be opened for changing the image to be shown, resulting in easier switching.

[0037] It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that creation of image content to be displayed can be performed instantaneous and therefore the displayed information can be quickly adjusted.

[0038] It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that the drawbacks of electronic billboard screens are avoided, while still being able to change the content of the billboard in flexible way.

[0039] It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that no solvent is required for cleaning of the substrate carrying the previous image. It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that it requires less processing as no used solvent for cleaning is to be removed and/or no replacement of a substrate is required (e.g. when working with a re-usable substrate this needs to be replaced after a limited number of uses).

[0040] It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that the energy consumption can be relatively low, as the printing only needs to be performed once, while with electronic billboards the image needs to be displayed electronically continuously.

[0041] It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that the electronics required are less complex and sensitive compared to electronic billboards such as those based on LCD, LED or OLED.

[0042] It is an advantage that the color reproducibility of the images obtained in systems according to embodiments of the present invention is superior, without the need of the complex system of an electronic billboard.

[0043] It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that a full color image can be obtained in an easy manner, which is not always possible using electronic billboards, such as for example with an OLED based billboard which is typically only available in monochrome color.

[0044] It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that all the technologies used in systems according to embodiments of the present invention are mature, such as for example print head and ink system technology, remote systems for transferring and controlling the images to be printed and displayed, that can e.g. be based on 3G although embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0045] It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that the substrate can be designed in function of the specifications.

[0046] It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that the billboard will be very readable even in daylight conditions.

[0047] It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that the colors on the billboard will match the customer's definitions, as these can be given in print colors, which is a well known standard.

[0048] It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that the system can be a low maintenance system.

[0049] It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that the system can be a low energy consumption system, because once the new print is ready, the billboard can be static.

[0050] The supporting means may be one or more carriers suitable for supporting a roll of web-like paperlike substrate. The paperlike substrate thus may be a continuous substrate medium.

[0051] The billboard system further may comprise a receiving means for receiving data corresponding with the information to be printed on the paperlike substrate.

[0052] The billboard system also may comprise a transmitting means for transmitting information regarding the printing process or regarding maintenance required to the system.

[0053] The receiving means and/or transmitting means may be adapted for receiving or transmitting data from or to a remote site.

[0054] The billboard system also may comprise a check system for checking a quality of the printed information, such as for example a scanning or imaging system for imaging the printed information.

[0055] The billboard system may be adapted for printing the paperlike substrate in such a manner that images can be displayed simultaneously at both sides of the billboard system.

[0056] The transporting means may comprise a set of rollers for guiding the paperlike substrate along or through the integrated printer and to the displaying position.

[0057] The present invention also relates to a corresponding method.

[0058] It is to be noticed that aspects of embodiments relating to the billboard with integrated printer can be easily combined with embodiments relating to the multifunctional billboard base portion and therefore embodiments combining these features also are envisaged.

[0059] Particular and preferred aspects of the invention are set out in the accompanying independent and dependent claims. Features from the dependent claims may be combined with features of the independent claims and with features of other dependent claims as appropriate and not merely as explicitly set out in the claims. These and other aspects of the invention will be apparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiment(s) described hereinafter.

Brief description of the drawings

[0060] 

FIG. 1 illustrates a billboard according to an embodiment of the present invention comprising a base portion and a switchably connectable display module, wherein the billboard is shown in non-connected (a) and in connected (b) state.

FIG. 2 illustrates a view of a side view and a top view of a billboard base according to an embodiment of the present invention, with a wired connection.

FIG. 3 illustrates a side view and a top view of a billboard base according to an embodiment of the present invention, with a wireless connection.

FIG. 4 illustrates a schematic overview of an exemplary method for replacing a display module in a billboard system, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 illustrates different phases of a method for replacing a display module in a billboard system, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 illustrates an example of a billboard system with different types of elements that can be positioned onto the billboard base, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 illustrates an example of a billboard system with integrated printer according to an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention.

[0061] The drawings are only schematic and are non-limiting. In the drawings, the size of some of the elements may be exaggerated and not drawn on scale for illustrative purposes.

[0062] Any reference signs in the claims shall not be construed as limiting the scope.

[0063] In the different drawings, the same reference signs refer to the same or analogous elements.

Detailed description of illustrative embodiments

[0064] The present invention will be described with respect to particular embodiments and with reference to certain drawings but the invention is not limited thereto but only by the claims. The drawings described are only schematic and are non-limiting. In the drawings, the size of some of the elements may be exaggerated and not drawn on scale for illustrative purposes. The dimensions and the relative dimensions do not correspond to actual reductions to practice of the invention.

[0065] Furthermore, the terms first, second and the like in the description and in the claims, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a sequence, either temporally, spatially, in ranking or in any other manner. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and that the embodiments of the invention described herein are capable of operation in other sequences than described or illustrated herein.

[0066] Moreover, the terms top, under and the like in the description and the claims are used for descriptive purposes and not necessarily for describing relative positions. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and that the embodiments of the invention described herein are capable of operation in other orientations than described or illustrated herein.

[0067] It is to be noticed that the term "comprising", used in the claims, should not be interpreted as being restricted to the means listed thereafter; it does not exclude other elements or steps. It is thus to be interpreted as specifying the presence of the stated features, integers, steps or components as referred to, but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps or components, or groups thereof. Thus, the scope of the expression "a device comprising means A and B" should not be limited to devices consisting only of components A and B. It means that with respect to the present invention, the only relevant components of the device are A and B.

[0068] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means 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, appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, but may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments.

[0069] Similarly it should be appreciated that in the description of exemplary embodiments of the invention, various features of the invention are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following the detailed description are hereby expressly incorporated into this detailed description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of this invention.

[0070] Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, and form different embodiments, as would be understood by those in the art. For example, in the following claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.

[0071] In the description provided herein, numerous specific details are set forth. However, it is understood that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, structures and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure an understanding of this description.
According to a first aspect, the present invention relates to a billboard system. The billboard system according to embodiments of the present invention comprises a base portion permanently fixable at a position where the billboard system is to be used. The base portion can for example be structurally connected to a pavement or a construction element present in the environment where the billboard system is to be used. Structurally connecting can be done in any suitable way, such as for example using a foundation, anchoring, etc. or using other building or construction techniques. The base portion can be installed horizontally or vertically, depending on the location possibilities. The base portion may for example also be a stand to which the display module is sideways connected. Alternatively the base portion also could be provided at the ceiling, allowing to fix the display module to it. The base portion of the billboard system also comprises a first connection means. Such a first connection means may be suitable for switchably connecting the display module to the base portion. The display module thereby may be of a first type based on at least a first type of display technology, of a second type based on at least a second type of display technology, etc. In other words, the display module may be specific for using one display technology, or for using a limited number of display technologies. The first connection means typically is part of the base portion as indicated above and is suitable for connecting a display module of a first type as well as for connecting a display module of a second type. In other words, the base portion is equipped for cooperating with different display modules based on different display technologies. The latter has the advantage that when a change in the selection of the display technology is envisaged, this can be easily done by replacing the display module, while the base portion that is fixedly mounted at the position where it is to be used can be re-used for the display module based on the different display technology. Different types of display technology that are envisaged may be e.g. OLED based technology, LED based technology, poster-technology, rolling poster technology whereby different posters are shown by rolling different posters to the display area, LCD technology, or other types of technologies that can be used for billboards. By equipping the base portion with the different types of equipments for connecting with different display technology based display modules, a safer and more efficient switch between display modules based on different display technologies can be obtained. The latter also may be used for maintenance purposes of display modules based on the same display technology.

[0072] According to embodiments of the present invention, the billboard system may comprise the display module, or may be able to co-operate therewith. The different technologies that can be used all typically have their specific advantages and disadvantages :
Billboards with paperlike media can be fixed poster billboards and rolling poster billboards showing different pictures. Such paperlike media typically are easy to read in all light conditions, e.g. using backlighting at night, have an excellent color reproducibility and are low in energy consumption. Furthermore there are no or very little mechanical & electronic parts, making the system typically robust. The fact that posters need to be changed and that there thus typically is only a limited flexibility in change of the poster content can be disadvantageous.
Billboards based on new technologies can be based on LCD, LED, OLED, Neon, etc. Advantages of such billboards is that they are easy to read at night or under indoor conditions, that it is easy to change the content of the screen, that they can provide dynamic images such as video, etc. Disadvantages are that there is a higher energy consumption than for paperlike substrate based billboards, that they require specific electronics which is complex and sensitive for LCD technology, complex for LED technology, but simple and robust for OLED technology. On the other hand color reproducibility is fairly good (except for deep dark colors) for LCD, good and suitable for large displays (e.g. more than 2 m²) when considering LED technology, but poor (only available in monochrome color) for OLED technology.

[0073] The display means may connect to the base portion by a second connection means fitting with the first connection means. The connection means may be adapted for powering, controlling and/or data transmission for the data to be displayed. Furthermore, the billboard systems may be adapted for on-the-spot updating of the information to be displayed, for informing a party of the need for maintenance, for informing a party regarding the operational state of the billboard system, etc. The billboard system also may comprise one or more sensors for sensing operational parameters of the display module or the billboard system as a whole.

[0074] In a number of embodiments, the billboard system also may comprise a locking means for connecting the display module and the base portion. Such a locking means may be an electromechanical lock or any other type of lock allowing locking of the display module to the base portion. The latter may assist in preventing theft and renders the system more tamper resistant. The locking means of the billboard system may be adapted for being remotely controlled, such that remotely the lock can be opened or closed. The locking means thus may be keyless opened to reduce the service time of the technician and/or to minimize the residence time in the dangerous traffic zone. The remotely controlled locking means may be based on RF ID signals or other type of remote control signals such as for example by radio control, infrared, Bluetooth, WIFI, Ethernet, wired communication, Zigbee, etc.

[0075] The locking means also may provide the mechanical interconnection between the base unit and the display module, such that the display module and base portion acts as a single mechanical unit.

[0076] According to some embodiments, the mechanical lock may be combined with the connectors of the first connection means, such that, when the mechanical lock moves to its opening position, the connectors will move under a top cover plate of the outer casing, so that the connectors are protected from direct weather influence like rain or snow.

[0077] The system furthermore may comprise a guiding system for guiding a proper aligning of the display module with respect to the base portion, such that a proper connection can be made. Such a guiding system may for example be one or more guiding pins, guiding rails, or other guiding features allowing aligning between the display module and the base portion.

[0078] By way of illustration, an example of a possible billboard system according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. 1,FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 illustrating standard and optional features of the system. FIG. 1 illustrates a billboard system comprising a base portion 100 and a display module 200 that are switchably connectable to each other. In FIG. 1(a) the base portion 100 and the display module 200 are shown not connected to each other, while in FIG. 1(b) the base portion 100 and the display module 200 are shown connected to each other. FIG. 2 illustrates a portion of such a billboard system, more particularly the base portion 100, wherein the first connection means in the base portion 100 comprises the data unit also referred to as data connection connected to a data cable 1 that is typically positioned underground, and the power unit, also referred to as power connection, connected to a power cable 2 that is typically positioned underground. The base portion typically may be fixed with fixing means 3 to the underground or a foundation thereof. Also shown in FIG. 2 and 3 are a keyless unlocking system. The power and data is transmitted to the display means using the power and data connectors 6. In the example shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 3, also an impact sensor is shown. As discussed above, the billboard system also may have a locking system for locking the billboard display 200 module to the billboard base portion 100. The locking means may be an electromechanical lock that can be controlled remotely using a remote control unit. The locking system 8 may make use of an electromechanical mechanism 10. Furthermore a guiding means or guiding system 9 is indicated for precise connection of the display module and the base portion. The guiding system 9 may comprise a number of mechanical protrusions and/or indentations on the base portion and the display module may comprise complementary indentations and/or mechanical protrusions for properly aligning the display module 200 with respect to the base module 100.

[0079] FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 also show a top view of the base portion 100, wherein indentations 102 for receiving guiding pins from the display module 200 and an indentation 104 for receiving a power and/or data connector from the display module for cooperating with the power and data connector of the base portion.

[0080] Other elements shown in FIG. 2 are a data processing unit 11, such as for example a LAN processing unit such as a router or a switch, an outer casing 13 which may be adapted for protecting underlying components such as for example the power and data connectors 6, the data processing unit 11, the impact sensor 7, etc. Furthermore, in the particular example shown in FIG. 3 also an antenna for cellular data is shown, which can replace the data cable underground, and which can be used for data transmission.

[0081] In FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 also an electricity unit 22, also referred to as power unit, may be present. Such a unit may e.g. comprise a socket, a fuse, a transformer, .....

[0082] In one embodiment the present invention can also provide a connection element with a seat on it, with a promotional element on it such as for example with a sculpture on it, or with a sensor device on it, such as for example a traffic counter, a video camera, a chemical analyser such as for example an analyser for measuring fine dust or NO_x, .... Examples of elements that can be used are shown in FIG. 6. In one of these elements requires any of powering, data, control or another signal, use can be made by of the connection means. The connection element can be adapted for fitting with the first connection means of the base. Alternatively, the connection element may be a dummy connection element, whereby no powering, data or control signals are used from/passed by the base.

[0083] In a particular example, a promotional element can for example be a 2- or 3-dimensional advertising sculpture that may for example be illuminated or have some motion to attract the attention of the people or traffic passing. The illumination or motion can be powered using the power connection at the first connection means.

[0084] In another particular example, the billboard system can comprise a dummy connection element, e.g. to replace the billboard display. Such a dummy connection element may comprise one or more seats. Such a dummy connection element can e.g. be used as a safety measurement, e.g. in case of sport or other events, such as a city marathon, a parade, a public speech, etc.

[0085] In yet another particular example, the billboard system can comprise or be adapted for cooperating with a sensing means such as a traffic counter or a video camera. Such a sensing means can then be mounted on a dummy connection element or a connection element allowing powering, control and or data transmission via the base after connecting the connection element with the first connection element on the base.

[0086] The above examples illustrate that the first connection element of the base can render the billboard base into a multi-purpose connection device.

[0087] According to some embodiments, the billboard will be equipped with an impact sensor. The device can e.g. send a signal via the data connection of billboard base to a billboard monitoring chamber, e.g. a control room for controlling billboards and other outdoor devices, in the event of an impact. Such an impact may for example be caused by serious vandalism or an accident. The sensor could for example also act as an input device to switch-off the power supply to the billboard base, reducing the risk of an electro-shock when the billboard is seriously damaged.

[0088] In one aspect the present invention also relates to a method for altering the display technology used in a billboard system or for providing maintenance of a billboard system.

[0089] The method comprising removing a first display module of a first type based on a first display technology from a base portion thereby disconnecting the first display module from a connection means in the base portion for powering and controlling the first display module. Such removing typically may be performed using a maintenance truck, as indicated in FIG. 4. The method also comprises positioning a second display module of a second type based on a second display technology on the base portion thereby connecting the second display module with the connection means in the base portion for powering and controlling the second display module. The latter may be performed by the same maintenance truck, bringing the second display module and taking away the first display module. The method as described herein also could be used for providing maintenance, whereby the first display module and the second display module are the same and wherein between said removing and said positioning, the first display module is serviced for maintenance.

[0090] According to embodiments of the present invention, removing may comprise first unlocking a locking means between the first display module and the base portion. Such unlocking may be remotely controlled unlocking, such as for example using RFID or radio technology. When RFID technology is used, the unlocking may be performed automatically - i.e. without user intervention - by an RFID component being brought in the neighbourhood of an RFID component being present in the billboard system. Unlocking of the locking means is illustrated by way of example in FIG. 1.

[0091] According to embodiments of the present invention, said positioning also may comprise a locking means between the second display module and the base portion so that the second display module is fixed to the base portion. The latter may be performed e.g. automatically by an RFID system that activates the locking when one of the RFID components present in the maintenance equipment is removed from the site where the billboard system is located. The latter may e.g. occur by a maintenance truck comprising the RFID component departing from the area. Alternatively, the user, e.g. in the maintenance truck, may lock the system manually by remote control. By way of illustration, embodiments of the present invention not being limited thereto, an example of a method for efficiently altering a billboard system is described with reference to FIG. 5.

[0092] In a first step the maintenance truck arrives. Via remote control or RFID the locking means, e.g. an electromechanical lock is opened. The maintenance truck can then lift the display module of the billboard system from the base. The connection for powering the display module or for data supply thereby is disconnected. The display module can e.g. be loaded in the maintenance truck. Another display module for the billboard system can then be positioned, e.g. by aligning the guiding means, with the base portion and the other display module can be positioned on the base portion. The connection means thereby may provide power connectivity as well as data supply to the other display module, even if this is based on a different display technology than the first display module.

[0093] If the other display module is positioned appropriately, the locking means can be closed again, thus providing a mechanical connection between the base portion and the display module. Such closing may be performed remote controlled, via RFID, etc.

[0094] In a further aspect, the present invention relates to billboards using a substrate such as a paperlike medium. The billboard system has an integrated printer. The printer can be any suitable type of printer, such as for example a digital printer (inkjet technology) using an ink system that will 100% reproduce the colors as described by the customers. The colors may for example be defined using conventional color representations, such as for example but not limited to CMYK. This results in particular logo's or colors used for commercial interest will be imaged as required. For example the BMW blue of the BMW logo will be the real BMW blue as used in other publications. It is an advantage that the printed picture will be very readable, even under strong sunshine conditions. The integrated printer may comprise conventional printing technology. In some embodiments the integrated printer may comprise one or more of a print head, a fixation means, a drying means, a heating means, etc. Use can be made of conventional printing systems such as for example systems adapted for printing on large areas.

[0095] The printing substrate will be a paperlike material. Different examples of a paperlike material can be cellulose type (paper) or polymeric type foils (PP, PVC, PET). The printing substrate may be a sheet like printing substrate that is positioned on top of the previous printing substrate. Alternatively, the printing substrate may be provided as a web-like substrate, whereby, when a new image is to be displayed, the paperlike material previously printed is removed out of the field of view and replaced by the newly printed image. In one embodiment the system may comprise a supply carrier is provided for carrying not-printed paperlike substrates in rolled format and at another side a waste carrier is provided for carrying previously printed paperlike substrates. Furthermore, a set of additional rollers may be provided for guiding the paperlike substrate along or through the printer for being printed and for guiding the paperlike substrate further to the area to be imaged. When a new image is to be printed, the old image is rolled towards the waste carrier, whereas meanwhile upstream the paperlike substrate, the printing is performed of the new image to be displayed. The substrate used may be a continuous substrate.

[0096] The paperlike substrate thus may be guided through a substrate displacement system, allowing to obtain each time a non-printed substrate for printing a new image.

[0097] Because of the integrated printer, the content shown on the billboard could be changed remotely and instantly. The billboard may for example be equipped with a remote control device (e.g. via 3G network, Bluetooth, Ethernet, WiFi, wired communication, radio-transmission, Zigbee, IR transmission, GPRS, UWB, WiMAX, ...) to send the picture to the specific billboard. Alternatively, control can also be performed at the billboard system, e.g. form an outside of the billboard system. It nevertheless may be advantageous to be able to control the system remotely. The system thus may be equipped with a receiver for receiving information to be printed using the integrated printer. In some embodiments, the system also may comprise a component for transmitting information regarding the printing quality, maintenance requirements, etc. to a remote control site.

[0098] To assure that the printing process was OK, the billboard system may be equipped with a check system, e.g. an integrated scanner or photocells as a control mechanism to verify prints. The control results also may be transmitted to the remote control site for checking.

[0099] Furthermore, additional control systems, e.g. indicating that the paperlike substrate is nearly completely used, may be provided so that a maintenance indication can be transmitted to the remote control site.

[0100] By way of illustration, an example of a possible billboard that can be used is illustrated in FIG. 7. The unprinted paperlike substrate 41 is present on a supply carrier 43, a set of rollers is provided for guiding the unprinted paperlike substrate 41 along the printing head 40 of the printer and along the one or more areas 45 through which the information printed is to be displayed and a waste carrier 44 collects the continuous printed paperlike substrate on a roll. The areas 45 through which the information printed is to be displayed may be a transparent window, such as for example a glass substrate, a polycarbonate substrate, a polystyrene substrate, etc. The printing head may typically be connected to an ink system and an ink reservoir system, as known by the person skilled in the art. The integrated printer typically also typically may have a printer control and processing unit 46.

Claims

1. A billboard system for displaying information, the billboard system comprising a base portion (100) permanently fixable at a position where the billboard system is to be used, the base portion comprising a first connection means,
the first connection means being suitable for switchably connecting a display module (200) of a first type based on at least a first type of display technology as well as being suitable for switchably connecting a display module (200) of a second type based on at least a second type of display technology different from the first type.

2. A billboard system according to claim 1, wherein the billboard system comprises a display module (200) switchably connectable to the base portion via the first connection means.

3. A billboard system according to any of the previous claims, wherein the first type of display technology and/or the second type of display technology is any of OLED based technology, LED based technology, poster-technology, rolling poster technology, LCD technology.

4. A billboard system according to any of the previous claims, wherein the first connection means is adapted for powering as well as for data transmission for controlling the display module of the first type and the display module of the second type.

5. A billboard system according to any of the previous claims, wherein the base portion (100) comprises a powering unit (22), and/or data unit (11) for providing data to be displayed to a display module (200) and/or a data, image or video processing means.

6. A billboard according to any of the previous claims, wherein the first connection means is provided with an Ethernet connection means.

7. A billboard according to any of the previous claims, wherein the billboard is provided with an information means for informing a party of the need for maintenance.

8. A billboard system according to any of the previous claims, wherein the billboard means comprises a locking means (8) for connecting the display module (200) and the base portion (100).

9. A billboard system according to the previous claim, wherein the locking means (8) is adapted for being remotely controlled, such that remotely the lock can be opened or closed.

10. A billboard system according to any of claims 8 to 9, wherein the locking means (8) is adapted for, when opening the locking means (8), inducing a relative mechanical movement of power and/or data connectors for protecting the connectors from environmental influence.

11. A billboard system according to any of the previous claims, wherein the system furthermore comprises a guiding system (9) for guiding a proper aligning of the display module with respect to the base portion, such that a proper connection can be made.

12. A method for altering a display technology used in a billboard system, the method comprising

• removing a first display module (200) of a first type based on a first display technology from a base portion (100) thereby disconnecting the first display module from a connection means in the base portion (100) for powering and controlling the first display module (200), and

• positioning a second display module (200) of a second type based on a second display technology on the base portion (100) thereby connecting the second display module with the connection means in the base portion for powering and controlling the second display module (200).

13. A method according to claim 12, wherein the first display module and the second display module are the same, the method being adapted for providing maintenance to a display module (200), wherein between said removing and said positioning, the first display module is serviced for maintenance.

14. A method according to any of claims 12 to 13, wherein said removing comprises first unlocking a locking means (8) between the first display module (200) and the base portion (100).

15. A method according to the previous claim, wherein said unlocking is remotely controlled unlocking.

Drawing