WO2001036872A1

WO2001036872A1 - Self illuminating device

Info

Publication number: WO2001036872A1
Application number: PCT/US2000/031386
Authority: WO
Inventors: Matthew M. Murasko
Original assignee: Lumimove, Inc.
Priority date: 1999-11-15
Filing date: 2000-11-15
Publication date: 2001-05-25
Also published as: AU1612201A

Abstract

A method for advertising utilizing an EL sign (200) includes connecting an EL lamp (10) to a control circuit (204), connecting the control circuit (204) to a power supply (206), and attaching the EL sign (200) to an advertising medium (480), such as a card, a magazine, a poster or a circular. The advertising medium (480) is then presented to individuals for viewing. The power supply (206) is a compact battery that can be easily placed within the advertising medium.

Description

SELF ILLUMINATING DEVICE

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to luminescent lamps and, more particularly, to electroluminescent signs including an electroluminescent lamp.

An electroluminescent (EL) lamp generally includes a layer of phosphor positioned between two electrodes, wherein at least one of the electrodes is light-transmissive. At least one dielectric also is positioned between the electrodes so the EL lamp functions essentially as a capacitor. When a voltage is applied across the electrodes, the phosphor material is activated and emits a light.

Fabricated EL lamps often are affixed to products, e.g., signs, to provide illuminated images on such signs. Particularly, and with respect to a display sign, EL lamps are bonded to the front surface of the display sign to form an EL sign so that the light emitted by the phosphor layers of such lamps may be viewed from a position in front of the sign.

EL signs generally include a control circuit to control when the various images of the sign are to be illuminated. In addition, EL signs typically include a power source to power the illuminated images of the EL sign. The power source is typically a control module that is plugged into a wall outlet. Therefore, the EL sign must remain in close proximity to a wall outlet to illuminate the various images.

Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide a compact EL sign including circuitry and a portable power supply so that the EL sign is portable.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An EL sign, in one embodiment, includes an illumination area, i.e., an

EL lamp, a compact control circuit, and a battery power supply. The control circuit is attached to the power supply and to the illumination area. A switch connected to the control circuit controls illumination of the EL lamp . The EL sign is compact and can be utilized in conjunction with a magazine page, a greeting card, or a badge.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is a schematic illustration of an electroluminescent lamp. Figure 2 is a flow chart illustrating a sequence of steps for fabricating the electroluminescent lamp shown in Figure 1.

Figure 3 is a schematic illustration of an electroluminescent sign in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 is a flow chart illustrating a sequence of steps for fabricating the electroluminescent lamp shown in Figure 3.

Figure 5 is an exploded pictorial illustration of an EL lamp fabricated in accordance with the steps shown in Figure 4.

Figure 6 is a schematic illustration of an electroluminescent lamp in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 7 is a flow chart illustrating a sequence of steps for fabricating the electroluminescent lamp shown in Figure 6.

Figure 8 is an exploded pictorial illustration of an EL lamp fabricated in accordance with the steps shown in Figure 7. Figure 9 is a schematic illustration of an electroluminescent sign including an electroluminescent lamp.

Figure 10 is a schematic illustration of an exemplary electroluminescent lamp driver circuit.

Figure 11 is a flow chart illustrating a sequence of steps for fabricating the electroluminescent sign shown in Figure 10.

Figure 12 is a flow chart illustrating a sequence of steps for a method of advertising utilizing an electroluminescent sign.

Figure 13 is a schematic illustration of an alternative embodiment of an electroluminescent sign including an electroluminescent lamp. Figure 14 is a schematic illustration of a further alternative embodiment of an electroluminescent sign including an electroluminescent lamp DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Figure 1 is a schematic illustration of an electroluminescent (EL) lamp 10 including a substrate 12 including a coating of light-transmissive conductive material, a front electrode 14, a phosphor layer 16, a dielectric layer 18, a rear electrode 20 of conductive particles, and a protective coating layer 22. Substrate 12 may, for example, be a poly (ethylene terephthalate) (PET) film coated with indium tin oxide. Front electrode 14 may be formed from silver particles. Phosphor layer 16 may be formed of electroluminescent phosphor particles, e.g., zinc sulfide doped with copper or manganese which are dispersed in a polymeric binder. Dielectric layer 18 may be formed of high dielectric constant material, such as barium titanate dispersed in a polymeric binder. Rear electrode 20 is formed of conductive particles, e.g., silver or carbon, dispersed in a polymeric binder to form a screen printable ink. Protective coating 22 may, for example, be an ultraviolet (UV) coating.

Referring now to Figure 2, EL lamp 10 is fabricated by applying 30 front electrode 14, e.g., silver particles, to a rear surface of substrate 12. For example, indium tin oxide may be sputtered onto the polyester film and then silver particles may be applied to the indium tin oxide. Phosphor layer 16 then is positioned 32 over front electrode 14, and dielectric layer 18 is positioned 34 over phosphor layer 16. Rear electrode 20 is then screen printed 36 over dielectric layer 18, and insulating layer 22 is positioned 38 over rear electrode 20 to substantially prevent possible shock hazard or to provide a moisture barrier to protect lamp 10. The various layers may, for example, be laminated together utilizing heat and pressure.

A background layer (not shown) is then applied to insulating layer 22.

The background layer is applied to substrate 12 such that only the background layer and front electrode 14 are visible from a location facing a front surface of substrate 12. The background layer may include, for example, conventional UV screen printing ink and may be cured in a UV drier utilizing known sign screening practices.

Figure 3 is a schematic illustration of an alternative electroluminescent (EL) lamp 40 including a substrate 42 including a coating of light-transmissive conductive material, a front electrode, 44, a phosphor layer 46, an insulator 48, a rear electrode 50, and a protective coating layer (not shown). Substrate 42 may, for example, be a polyester film coated with indium tin oxide. Front electrode 44 may be formed from silver particles that form a screen printable ink which is UV curable such as Lumimove Conductor 101-UV available from Lumimove Company, 2685 Metro Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63043. Phosphor layer 46 may be formed of electroluminescent phosphor particles, e.g., zinc sulfide doped with copper or manganese which are dispersed in a polymeric binder to form a screen printable ink. In one embodiment, the phosphor screen printable ink may be UV curable such as Lumimove Light

Particle 103-UV available from Lumimove Company, 2685 Metro Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63043.

Dielectric layer 48 may be formed of high dielectric constant material, such as barium titanate dispersed in a polymeric binder to form a screen printable ink. In one embodiment, the dielectric screen printable ink may be UV curable such as

Lumimove Insulator 102-UV available from Lumimove Company, 2685 Metro Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63043. Rear electrode 50 is formed of conductive particles, e.g., silver or carbon, dispersed in a polymeric binder to form a screen printable ink. In one embodiment, rear electrode 50 may be UV curable such as Lumimove Particle Conductor 104-UV available from Lumimove Company, 2685 Metro Blvd, St. Louis,

MO 63043. The protective coating may, for example, be an ultraviolet (UV) coating such as Lumimove Clear Coat Insulator 105-UV available from Lumimove Company, 2685 Metro Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63043.

In an alternative embodiment, EL lamp 40 does not include insulator 48. Since the UV curable phosphor screen printable ink, i.e., Lumimove Light

Particle 103-UV includes an insulator in the binder, EL lamp 40 does not require a separate dielectric layer over phosphor layer 46.

Figure 4 illustrates a method 60 of fabricating EL lamp 40 (shown in Figure 3). A front electrode defining an illumination area is screen printed 62 to the indium tin oxide coating on substrate 42. After screen printing 62 the front electrode, a phosphor layer is screen printed 64 to the indium tin oxide layer. Subsequently, a dielectric layer is screen printed 66 over the phosphor layer. The front electrode and phosphor layer are configured to define a light emitting design. A rear electrode is then screen printed 68 over the dielectric layer to form an EL lamp More particularly, and referring now to Figure 5, a substantially clear heat stabilized polycarbonate substrate 80, e.g., a plastic substrate, having a front surface 82 and a rear surface 84 is first positioned in an automated flat bed screen printing press (not shown in Figure 5). Substrate 80 is positioned in the flat bed printing press such that the layer of ITO is facing up. A background substrate 86 is screen printed to rear surface 84 and covers substantially entire rear surface 84 except for an illumination area 88 thereof. Illumination area 88 is shaped as a reverse image, e.g., a reverse image of "R", of a desired image to be illuminated, e.g., an "R".

A dielectric background layer 90 is then screen printed over sign rear surface 84 and background substrate 86. Dielectric background layer 90 covers substantially entire background substrate 86 and includes an illumination portion 92 which is substantially aligned with illumination area 88.

A front electrode 94 fabricated from silver ink is then screen printed onto sign rear surface 84 so that front electrode 94 contacts the outer perimeter of illumination portion 92. In addition, a lead 96 of front electrode 94 extends from the perimeter of illumination portion 92 to a perimeter 98 of EL lamp 40. Front electrode

94 is then UV cured for approximately two to five seconds under a UV lamp.

After screen printing front electrode 94 to sign surface 84, a phosphor layer 100 is screen printed over front electrode 94. Phosphor layer 100 is screened as a reverse image. Phosphor layer 100 is then UV cured, for example, for approximately two to five seconds under a UV lamp.

A dielectric layer 102 is then screen printed onto sign surface 84 so that dielectric layer 102 covers substantially entire phosphor layer 100 and front electrode 94. Particularly, dielectric layer 102 includes two layers (not shown) of high dielectric constant material. The first layer of dielectric layer 102 is screen printed over phosphor layer 100 and then UV cured to dry for approximately two to five seconds under a UV lamp. The second layer of dielectric layer 102 is then screen printed over the first layer of barium titanate and UV cured to dry for approximately two to five seconds under a UV lamp to form dielectric layer 102. In accordance with one embodiment, dielectric layer 102 has substantially the same shape as illumination area 88, but is approximately 2% larger than illumination area 88 and is sized to cover at least a portion of front electrode lead 96. In an alternative embodiment, EL lamp 40 does not include dielectric layer 102 since phosphor layer 100 includes an insulator in the UV phosphor binder. A rear electrode 104 is screen printed to rear surface 84 over dielectric layer 102 and includes an illumination portion 106 and a rear electrode lead 108. Illumination portion 106 is substantially the same size and shape as illumination area 88, and rear electrode lead 108 extends from illumination portion 106 to sign perimeter 98. Rear electrode 104, dielectric layer 102, phosphor layer 100, and front electrode 94 form EL lamp 40 extending from rear surface 84 of substrate 80.

Subsequently, a UV clear coat (not shown in Figure 5) is screen printed to rear surface 84 and covers rear electrode 104, dielectric layer 102, phosphor layer 100, front electrode 94, dielectric background layer 90 and background layer 86.

Particularly, the UV clear coat covers entire rear surface 84. In an alternative embodiment, UV clear coat cover substantially entire rear surface 84 except for a terminal portion 110, through which a portion of front electrode lead 96 and rear electrode lead 108 are exposed to facilitate coupling a power supply (not shown in Figure 7) to leads 96 and 108.

Figure 6 is a schematic illustration of an alternative electroluminescent (EL) lamp 120 including a substrate 122. Substrate 122, in one embodiment, is a paper based substrate, such as card board or 80 pt. card stock, and includes a front surface 124 and a rear surface 126. A rear electrode 128 is formed on front surface 124 of substrate 122. Rear electrode 128 is formed of conductive particles, e.g., silver or carbon, dispersed in a polymeric binder to form a screen printable ink. In one embodiment, rear electrode 128 is heat curable such as Lumimove Particle Conductor 1004-HC available from Lumimove Company, 2685 Metro Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63043. A dielectric layer 48 may be formed of high dielectric constant material, such as barium titanate dispersed in a polymeric binder to form a screen printable ink. In one embodiment, the dielectric screen printable ink may be heat curable such as Lumimove Insulator 1002-HC available from Lumimove Company, 2685 Metro Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63043.

A phosphor layer 132 may be formed of electroluminescent phosphor particles, e.g., zinc sulfide doped with copper or manganese which are dispersed in a polymeric binder to form a screen printable ink. In one embodiment, the phosphor screen printable ink may be heat curable such as Lumimove Light Particle 1003-HC available from Lumimove Company, 2685 Metro Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63043. A front electrode 134 may be formed from silver particles that form a screen printable ink which is heat curable such as Lumimove Conductor 1001-HC available from

Lumimove Company, 2685 Metro Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63043. A protective coating 136 may, for example, be an ultraviolet (UV) coating such as Lumimove Clear Coat Insulator 105-UV available from Lumimove Company, 2685 Metro Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63043. Figure 7 illustrates a sequence of steps 140 for fabricating EL lamp 120. EL lamp 120 may, for example, have a metal substrate, e.g., 0.25 mm gauge aluminum, a plastic substrate, e.g., 0.15 mm heat stabilized polycarbonate, or a paper based substrate, e.g., 80 pt. card stock. With respect to an 80 pt. card stock EL lamp, a rear electrode is formed 142 on a front surface of EL lamp 120. Next, a dielectric layer is formed 144 over the rear electrode. Subsequently, a phosphor layer is formed 146 over the dielectric layer. A layer of indium tin oxide ink is then formed 148 over the phosphor layer, and a protective coat is applied 150 over the indium tin oxide ink.

More particularly, and referring now to Figure 8, an EL lamp 160, e.g., a lamp having a paper based substrate, having a front surface 162 and a rear surface

(not shown) is first positioned in an automated flat bed screen printing press (not shown) . A rear electrode 164, such as screen printable carbon or silver, having an illumination area 166 and rear electrode lead 168 is then screen printed onto front surface 162 of lamp 160. Illumination area 166 defines a light emitting design, or shape, e.g., an "L", representative of the ultimate image to be illuminated by lamp

160. Rear electrode lead 168 extends from illumination area 166 to a perimeter 170 of sign front surface 162. Rear electrode 164 is screen printed as a positive, or forward, image, e.g., as "L " rather than as a reverse "L". After printing rear electrode 164 on front surface 162, rear electrode 164 is cured to dry. For example, rear electrode 164 and lamp 160 may be positioned in a reel to reel oven for approximately two minutes at a temperature of about 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

A dielectric layer 172 is then screen printed onto lamp surface 162 so that dielectric layer 172 covers substantially the entire illumination area 166 while leaving rear electrode lead 168 substantially uncovered. Particularly, dielectric layer 172 includes two layers (not shown) of high dielectric constant material, such as barium titanate dispersed in a polymeric binder. The first layer of barium titanate is screen printed over rear electrode 164 and then cured to dry for approximately two minutes at a temperature of about 350 degrees Fahrenheit. The second layer of barium titanate is then screen printed over the first layer of barium titanate and cured to dry for approximately two minutes at a temperature of about 350 degrees Fahrenheit to form dielectric layer 172. In accordance with one embodiment, dielectric layer 172 has substantially the same shape as illumination area 166, but is approximately 2% larger than illumination area 166. After screen printing dielectric layer 172 and rear electrode 164 to lamp surface 162, a phosphor layer 174 is screen printed onto sign surface 162 over dielectric layer 172. Phosphor layer 174 is screened as a forward, or positive, image, e.g., as "L", rather than a reverse image, e.g., as a reverse image of "L", and has substantially the same shape and size as illumination area 166. Phosphor layer 174 may, for example, be screen printed on lamp 160 with the same screen utilized to print rear electrode 164 on lamp 160. Phosphor layer 174 is then cured, for example, for approximately two minutes at about 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

An indium tin oxide layer 176 is then screen printed over phosphor layer 174. Indium tin oxide layer 176 has substantially the same shape and size as illumination area 166 and may, for example, be screen printed with the same screen utilized to print phosphor layer 174. Indium tin oxide layer 176 also is screened as a forward image and is cured, for example, for approximately two minutes at about 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Subsequently, a front electrode, or bus bar, 178 fabricated from silver ink is screen printed onto lamp surface 162 and configured to transport energy to indium tin oxide layer 176. Particularly, front electrode 178 is screen printed to lamp surface 162 so that a first portion 180 of front electrode 178 contacts the outer perimeter of indium tin oxide layer 176, and thus the outer perimeter of illumination area 166, and a front electrode lead 182 extends from illumination area 166 to perimeter 170 of sign surface 162. Front electrode 178 is then cured for approximately two minutes at about 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Rear electrode 164, dielectric layer 172, phosphor layer 174, indium tin oxide layer 176. and front electrode 178 form EL lamp 160 extending from front surface 162 of the substrate. A background layer 184 is then screen printed on front surface 162 of the substrate. Background layer 184 substantially covers front surface 162 except for illumination area 166 and a terminal tab portion 186 of front surface 162. Particularly, background layer 184 substantially covers front electrode 178, the portion of dielectric layer 172 not aligned with illumination area 166, and rear electrode 164. Terminal tab portion 186 is adjacent sign perimeter 170 and is uncovered to facilitate coupling a power supply 188 to front electrode lead 182 and rear electrode lead 168. Particularly, background layer 184 is screen printed on front surface 162 so that substantially only background layer 184 and indium tin oxide layer 176 are visible from a location facing front surface 162. Background layer 184 may include, for example, conventional UV screen printing ink and may be cured in a UV dryer utilizing known sign screening practices.

In accordance with one embodiment, rear electrode 164 is approximately 0.6 millimeters thick, dielectric layer 172 is approximately 1.2 millimeters thick, phosphor layer 174 is approximately 1.6 millimeters thick, indium tin oxide layer 176 is approximately 1.6 millimeters thick, front electrode 178 is approximately 0.6 millimeters thick, and background layer 184 is approximately 0.6 millimeters thick. Of course, each of the various thicknesses may vary.

The above described embodiment is exemplary, and is not meant to be limiting. For example, after screening background layer 184 onto front surface 162, an ultraviolet (UV) coating may be applied to lamp 160. Particularly, the UV coating may be applied to cover entire front surface 162 of the substrate and to provide protection to EL lamp 160 formed by rear electrode 164, dielectric layer 172, phosphor layer 174, indium tin oxide layer 176, and front electrode 178. Similarly, front surface 162 of lamp 160 may be coated with a UV coating before applying rear electrode 164 to front surface 162. For example, a UV coating is first applied to front surface 162 to substantially ensure the integrity of the EL lamp layers, e.g., to substantially prevent the paper based substrate from absorbing the screen printable inks. Figure 9 illustrates an electroluminescent (EL) sign 200 including an electroluminescent (EL) lamp 202 connected to a control circuit 204 which is connected to a power supply 206. EL lamp 202 includes two leads 208 and 210 and control circuit 204 includes two tabs 212 and 214. Tabs 212 and 214 each include a plurality of projections 216 which extend at least partially through leads 208 and 210 such that tab 212 is connected to first lead 208 and tab 214 is connected to second lead 210. First lead 208 extends from, and is electrically connected to, front electrode 14 (shown in Figure 1), and second lead 210 is an extension of rear electrode 20 (shown in Figure 1). In one embodiment, EL sign 200 is smaller than four inches by four inches and is able to fit within a greeting card, or advertising medium of similar size.

Power supply 206 is a battery, such as a three volt lithium foil battery commercially available from Ultralife Batteries, Inc. , Nutley New Jersey. In an alternative embodiment, power supply 206 is an AC source such as a wall outlet. Power supply 206 includes a pair of leads 218 and 220. Leads 218 and 220 are electrically connected to control circuit 54 by soldering. In an alternative embodiment, leads 218 and 220 are electrically connected to control circuit 54 by a pin and socket method as is well known in the art. Control circuit 204 includes a switch 222 that, when actuated, activates EL lamp 202. In one embodiment, switch 222 is a push button switch such that once switch 222 is pushed, EL lamp 202 is activated and remains illuminated for a selected period of time. In an alternative embodiment, switch 222 could be a push to start push to stop switch such that EL lamp 202 illuminates when switch 222 is pushed a first time, and EL lamp 202 is deactivated when switch 222 is pushed a second time. In a further alternative embodiment, switch 222 is a motion switch such that when switch 222 moves from a first position to a second position, switch 222 activates EL lamp 202 and EL lamp 202 remains illuminated. Then, when switch 222 is moved from the second position to the first position, switch 222 deactivates EL lamp 202.

Figure 10 is a schematic illustration of an exemplary electroluminescent lamp driver circuit 240 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Driver circuit 240 is a specific example of control circuit 204 (shown in Figure 9) and includes a plurality of components including a switch 242. Switch 242 is, in one embodiment, switch 222 (shown in Figure 9). A first terminal

244 of switch 242 is connected to a circuit ground 246 and a second terminal 248 of switch 242 is connected to a pull up resistor 247. In addition an input 250, of a logic inverter 252 is connected to second terminal 248 of switch 242 and to pull up resistor 247. Logic inverter 252 includes an output 254 connected to a first lead 256 of a capacitor 258.

Capacitor 258 has a second lead 260 which is connected to a first lead 262 of a resistor 264, a cathode 266 of a first diode 268, an input 270 to a second logic inverter 272, and to a first lead 274 of a feedback capacitor 276. A second lead 278 of resistor 264 and an anode 280 of first diode 268 are connected to circuit ground 244. An output 282 of second logic inverter 272 is connected to an input

284 of a third logic inverter 286. An output 288 of third logic inverter 286 is connected to a second lead 290 of capacitor 276 and a first cathode 292 of a dual diode 294. Connected in parallel with a common anode 296 and a second cathode 298 of dual diode 294 are two resistors 300 and 302. Resistor 302 is connected to common anode 296 of dual diode 294.

Connected in parallel with resistor 302 is a fourth logic inverter 304, having an input 306 connected to anode 296 of dual diode 294. In addition, a capacitor 308 is connected between anode 296 of dual diode 294 and circuit ground 246. An output 310 of logic inverter 304 is connected to an input 312 of a fifth logic inverter 314. An output 316 of logic inverter 314 is connected to two resistors 318 and 320. A lead of a resistor 322 is connected to integrated circuit 324 as is a lead 326 of resistor 320. Driver circuit 240 also includes a voltage source 332 with a positive side 334 and a negative side 336. Positive side 334 of voltage source 332 is a voltage supply for driver circuit 240 and is connected to integrated circuit 324 and in addition serves as a voltage source for logic inverters 252, 272, 286, 304 and 314. Positive side 334 of voltage source 332 is also connected to a second lead 338 of pull up resistor 247. A decoupling capacitor 340 is connected in parallel across voltage source 332. Positive side 334 of voltage source 332 is also connected to a first lead 342 of an inductor 344 which has a second side 346 connected to integrated circuit 324 and to an anode 348 of a second diode 350. Cathode ^'352 of second diode 350 is connected to a first lead 354 of a capacitor 356 and integrated circuit 324. A second lead 358 of capacitor 356 is connected to circuit ground 246 as is one lead 360 of integrated circuit 224. Two leads 362 and 364 of integrated circuit 224 are connected to respective terminals of electroluminescent lamps 366.

In alternative embodiments of the invention, switch 242 can be replaced in the driver circuit 240 with either a phototransistor 292 or a photodiode 294. Exemplary values for components in one embodiment of driver circuit 110 are listed below.

Resistor 247 = 1 Mega-ohm

Resistor 264 = 330 kilo-ohms

Resistor 800 = 330 kilo-ohms Resistor 302 = 1 Mega-ohm

Resistor 318 = 560 kilo-ohms

Resistor 320 = 1 Mega-ohm

Capacitor 258 = 1 microfarad

Capacitors 276 and 340 = 4.7 microfarads Capacitor 808 = 0.47 microfarad

Inductor 344 = 560 milli-henries Integrated circuit 324 is a high-voltage electroluminescent lamp driver. When switch 242 is depressed, a logic high voltage that had been present on input 250 to first logic inverter 252 due to pull up resistor 247 is routed to circuit ground 246 and input 250 of first logic inverter 252 becomes logic low. When input 250 to first logic inverter 252 becomes logic low, a logic high signal is produced at output 254 of first logic inverter 252. The logic high signal at output 254 of first logic inverter 252 charges capacitor 258 to the voltage supply voltage.

The logic high voltage enables a timed oscillator circuit consisting of logic inverters 272, 286, and 304, capacitors 276 and 308, resistors 300 and 302 and dual diode 294. The timed oscillator circuit outputs a signal to input 312 of logic inverter 314 for a time determined by the values of resistor 302 and capacitor 308. The presence of the timer signal at input 312 of fifth logic inverter 314 resulting in a signal at output 316 of fifth logic inverter 314 which along with capacitor 356 and inductor 344 enable integrated circuit 324. Integrated circuit 324 is turned off and on by the oscillating signal at the inputs and then turns off and on outputs 362 and 364 to the electroluminescent lamps 366 resulting in a flashing display.

Figure 11 illustrates a method 380 for forming an EL sign, such as EL sign 200, shown in Figure 9. EL sign 200 includes EL lamp 202, control circuit 204, and power supply 206. EL lamp 202 is formed 382 by applying a coating of light- transmissive conductive material to a rear surface of a sign substrate, such as a PET film. Alternatively, the sign could include a metal substrate, e.g. , 0.25 mm gauge aluminum, or a cardboard substrate, e.g., 50 pt. board. Lamp 202 includes a first lead 208 extending from the conductive material. A layer of phosphor is applied to the conductive material. In one embodiment, the layer of phosphor is an ink. In an alternative embodiment, the layer of phosphor is a sheet of material that is sized to cover an area to be illuminated.

A dielectric layer is then applied to the layer of phosphor. The dielectric layer, in one embodiment, is an ink. In an alternative embodiment, the dielectric layer is a sheet of material. A rear electrode is applied to the dielectric layer. In one embodiment, the rear electrode is an ink and is printed onto the substrate. Lamp 202 further includes a second lead 210 extending from the rear electrode and electrically connected to the rear electrode. An insulating layer is applied to the rear electrode to prevent possible shock hazard or to provide a moisture barrier to protect lamp 202. The various layers may, for example, be laminated together utilizing heat and pressure.

EL lamp 202 is connected 384 to control circuit 204 with leads 208 and 210. Specifically, a pair of tabs 212 and 214 (shown in Figure 9) are soldered to control circuit 204. Tabs 212 and 214 each include pins 216. Tab 212 is connected to lead 208 by extending pins 216 on tab 212 at least partially through lead 208. Tab 214 is connected to lead 210 by extending pins 216 on tab 214 at least partially through lead 210 such that EL lamp 202 is electrically connected to the control circuit 204. Control circuit 204 is connected 386 to switch 222 (show in Figure 9) that, when actuated, activates EL lamp 202. In one embodiment, switch 222 is a push button switch such that once switch 222 is pushed, EL lamp 202 is activated and remains illuminated for a selected period of time. In an alternative embodiment, switch 222 could be a push to start push to stop switch. In a further alternative embodiment, switch 222 is a motion switch such that EL lamp 202 is activated when switch 222 is moved from a first position to a second position.

Control circuit 204 is also connected 388 to power supply 206 which, in one embodiment, is a battery, such as a three volt lithium foil battery commercially available from Ultralife Batteries, Inc., Nutley New Jersey. In an alternative embodiment, power supply 206 is an AC source such as a wall outlet. Power supply 206 includes a pair of leads 218 and 220. Leads 218 and 220 are electrically connected to control circuit 204 by soldering.

Figure 12 illustrates a method 400 for advertising utilizing an EL sign, such as EL sign 200 (shown in Figure 9). Method 400 includes the steps of forming 402 an EL lamp, such as EL lamp 202 (shown in Figure 9). EL lamp 202 is formed by applying a coating of light-transmissive conductive material to a rear surface of a substrate, such as a PET film. Alternatively, the substrate could be a metal substrate, e.g., 0.25 mm gauge aluminum, or a cardboard substrate, e.g., 50 pt. board. Lamp 202 includes a first lead 208 extending from the conductive material. A layer of phosphor is applied to the conductive material. In one embodiment, the layer of phosphor is an ink. In an alternative embodiment, the layer of phosphor is a sheet of material that is sized to cover an area to be illuminated. A dielectric layer is then applied to the layer of phosphor. The dielectric layer, in one embodiment, is an ink. In an alternative embodiment, the dielectric layer is a sheet of material. A rear electrode is applied to the dielectric layer. In one embodiment, the rear electrode is an ink and is printed onto the substrate. Lamp 202 further includes a second lead 210 extending from the rear electrode and electrically connected to the rear electrode. An insulating layer is applied to the rear electrode to prevent possible shock hazard or to provide a moisture barrier to protect lamp 202. The various layers may, for example, be laminated together utilizing heat and pressure. The method further includes the step of connecting 404 EL lamp 202 to control circuit 204 (shown in Figure 9) with leads 208 and 210 (shown in Figure 9). A pair of tabs 212 and 214 (shown in Figure 9) extend from control circuit 204 and each include a plurality of pins 216 (shown in Figure 9). Tab 212 is connected to lead 208 by extending pins 216 on tab 212 at least partially through lead 2Q8. Tab 214 is connected to lead 210 by extending pins 216 on tab 214 at least partially through lead 210 such that EL lamp 202 is electrically connected to the control circuit.

The method also includes the step of connecting 406 control circuit

204 to switch 222 (shown in Figure 9) such that, when actuated, switch 222 activates EL lamp 202. In one embodiment, switch 222 is a push button. In an alternative embodiment, switch 222 is a push to start push to stop switch. In a further alternative embodiment, switch 222 is a motion switch.

The method still further includes the step of connecting 408 control circuit 204 to power supply 206 (shown in Figure 9) which, in one embodiment, is a battery, such as a three volt lithium foil battery commercially available from Ultralife Batteries, Inc., Nutley New Jersey. In an alternative embodiment, power supply 206 is an AC source such as a wall outlet. Power supply 206 includes a pair of leads 218 and 220 (shown in Figure 9). Leads 218 and 220 are electrically connected to control circuit 204 by soldering. An EL signed is formed from the connected EL lamp, control circuit, and power supply. The method further includes the step of attaching 410 the EL lamp, control circuit, and power supply (i.e. , the EL sign) to a substrate such as a card, a magazine, a poster or a circular. In one embodiment, the card is a greeting card and the EL sign is attached by positioning the EL sign within a pocket of the card. Alternatively, the EL sign could be attached to the card with an adhesive. Further, the EL sign could be attached to the card with a set of clips, or other fasteners. In an alternative embodiment, the substrate is an advertising medium. In a still further embodiment, the substrate is a direct mailing circular and the EL sign is attached to the circular.

The method also includes the step of having 412 the EL sign viewed by people. In one embodiment, the substrate is delivered to people and the people then view the EL sign. In an alternative embodiment, the substrate is sent via a delivery agent, such as the US mail system, overnight delivery, or with a newspaper as a circular. The sign is activated by actuating the switch which illuminates the lamp. The switch is activated, in one embodiment, by opening, e.g. , unfolding, the substrate which moves the motion actuated switch to a first position. The lamp remains illuminated until the substrate is refolded which moves the motion actuated switch to a second position. Figure 13 illustrates an alternative electroluminescent (EL) sign 400 that can be utilized as a badge, in periodical page inserts, in direct mailings, and in marketing campaigns. Sign 420 includes an electroluminescent (EL) lamp 422 connected to a control circuit 424 which is connected to a power supply 426. In one embodiment, control circuit 424 is identical to control circuit 204 (shown in Figure 9) and power supply 426 is identical to power supply 206 (shown in Figure 9). EL lamp 422 is a lamp such as one of lamps 10 (shown in Figure 1), 40 (shown in Figure 3), and lamp 120 (shown in Figure 6).

In addition, EL sign 420 includes a sign substrate 428. Sign substrate 428 includes a first portion 430 that includes a plurality of tabs 432 extending therefrom. Tabs 432 have adhesive 433 attached thereto, e.g., printed thereon. Sign substrate 428 further includes a second portion 434 extending from first portion 430. Control circuit 424 and power supply 426 are. attached to second portion 434. In one embodiment, control circuit 424 and power supply 426 are attached to second portion 434 with an adhesive. A protective foam cover 436 is positioned adjacent control circuit 424 to protect control circuit 424.

Sign substrate 428 also includes a third portion 438 extending from second portion 434. In one embodiment, EL lamp substrate is a portion of sign substrate 428. In an alternative embodiment, EL lamp 422 is attached to sign substrate 428, such as by an adhesive, or with fasteners such as clips. Control circuit 424 is connected to a switch 440 which is also attached to third portion 438. Sign substrate 428 also includes a fourth portion 448 extending from third portion 438. Fourth portion 448 includes a semi-transparent display area 450. In addition, fourth portion 448 includes a plurality of tabs 452 extending therefrom. Tabs 452 include an adhesive 454 attached thereto, e.g. , printed thereon. Transparent display area 450 is overprinted with an image. First portion 430 and fourth portion 448 of sign substrate 428 include a graphic image printed thereon. The image is a solid ink image, except for a portion of the image covering display area 450.

EL sign 420 is formed by positioning protective foam 436 on control circuit 424. Then, first portion 430 is folded such that a front surface 456 of first portion 430 contacts a front surface 458 of second portion 434. Tabs 432 are then folded over second portion 434 to retain second portion 434 in touching contact with first portion 430. Fourth portion 448 is then folded such that a front surface 460 of fourth portion 448 contacts a front surface 462 of third portion 438. Fourth portion 448 is aligned with third portion 438 such that display area 450 overlies EL lamp 422. Tabs 452 are then folded over third portion 438 to retain third portion 438 in touching contact with fourth portion 448.

EL sign 420 is initially folded such that a rear surface (not shown) of fourth portion 448 contacts a rear surface (not shown) of first portion 430. EL sign 420 is activated by unfolding sign 420 such that the rear surface of first portion 430 is moved away from the rear surface of fourth portion 448. The unfolding of the first portion rear surface from the fourth portion rear surface activates motion activated switch 440. Once switch 440 is activated, EL lamp 422 illuminates and is visible through display area 450. EL lamp 422 remains illuminated until switch 440 is moved to its original position such that the fourth portion rear surface contacts the first portion rear surface. Once switch 440 attains its original position, EL lamp 442 is no longer illuminated. Sign 420 could thus be delivered to an end user and activated by the user at the convenience of the user. In an alternative embodiment, after switch 440 is activated, EL lamp 422 remains illuminated for a predetermined period of time. Then, in order to illuminate lamp 422 again, sign 420 must be refolded and then unfolded to again activate switch 440. Sign 420 could then be utilized as a badge, or other device where a compact illuminated sign is desired.

In a further alternative embodiment, lamp 422 could be activated when sign is folded such that the fourth portion rear surface contacts the first portion rear surface. A locking mechanism (not shown) is included on sign 420 to maintain sign 420 in the closed position.

Figure 14 illustrates an alternative electroluminescent (EL) sign 480 that can be utilized as a badge, in periodical page inserts, in direct mailings, and in marketing campaigns. Sign 480 includes an electroluminescent (EL) lamp 482 connected to a control circuit 484 which is connected to a power supply 486. In one embodiment, control circuit 484 is identical to control circuit 204 (shown in Figure 9) and power supply 486 is identical to power supply 206 (shown in Figure 9). EL lamp 482 is a lamp such as one of lamps 10 (shown in Figure 1), 40 (shown in Figure 3), and lamp 120 (shown in Figure 6).

In addition, EL sign 480 includes a sign substrate 488. Sign substrate 488 includes a first portion 490 that includes a plurality of tabs 492 extending therefrom. Tabs 492 have adhesive 494 attached thereto, e.g. , printed thereon. First portion 490 includes a display area 496. Sign substrate 488 further includes a second portion 498 extending from first portion 490. Control circuit 484 and power supply 486 are attached to second portion 498.

In one embodiment, control circuit 484 and power supply 486 are attached to second portion 498 with an adhesive (not shown). A protective foam cover 500 is positioned adjacent control circuit 484 to protect control circuit 484. EL lamp 482 is attached to second portion 498. In one embodiment, EL lamp includes a substrate which is a portion of sign substrate 488. In an alternative embodiment, EL lamp 482 is attached to sign substrate 488, such as by an adhesive, or with fasteners such as clips.

A press sensitive switch 502 is attached to control circuit 484 with a lead (not shown). Switch 502 is positioned on second portion 498 in close proximity to control circuit 484. In an alternative embodiment, switch 502 is a motion sensitive switch.

A graphic image is printed on a rear surface (not shown) of first portion 490. The image is a solid ink image, except for a portion of the image covering the display area.

EL sign 480 is formed by positioning protective foam 500 on control circuit 484 and power source 486. Then, first portion 490 is folded such that a front surface 504 of first portion 490 contacts a front surface 506 of second portion 498. Tabs 492 are then folded over second portion 498 to retain second portion 498 in touching contact with first portion 490

EL sign 480 is activated once first portion front surface 504 contacts second portion front surface 506. Once switch 502 is activated, EL lamp 482 illuminates and is visible through display area 496. EL lamp 482 remains illuminated until press sensitive switch 502 is released.

Sign 480 can thus be utilized as a badge for conventions or the like. At the start of the convention, sign 480 is folded such that EL lamp 482 is illuminated. Sign 480 will remain illuminated until either switch 502 is deactivated, or power source 486 loses power. Sign 480 could also be sent as a circular or placed in a periodical and could be activated by a user and worn or displayed.

While the invention has been described in terms of various specific embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention can be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of the claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A method for advertising utilizing an EL sign, the EL sign including an EL lamp, a control circuit, and a power supply, said method comprising the steps of: connecting the EL lamp to the control circuit; connecting the control circuit to the power supply; and attaching the EL sign to an advertising medium.

2. A method in accordance with Claim 1 wherein said step of attaching the EL sign includes the step of inserting the EL sign into one of a card and a magazine.

3. A method in accordance with Claim 1 wherein said step of attaching the EL sign includes the step of attaching the EL sign to one of a poster and a circular.

4. A method in accordance with Claim 1 wherein said step of connecting the control circuit to the power supply comprises the step of connecting the control circuit to a battery.

5. A method in accordance with Claim 4 wherein said step of connecting the control circuit to a battery comprises the step of connecting the control circuit to a lithium foil battery.

6. A method in accordance with Claim 1 wherein the EL sign further includes two tabs, said step of connecting the EL lamp to the control circuit comprises the steps of: electrically connecting the two tabs to the control circuit, each of the tabs including at least one pin; and extending the pins at least partially through at least one lead extending from the EL lamp to electrically connect the EL lamp to the control circuit.

7. A method in accordance with Claim 1 wherein the control circuit includes a switch, said method further comprising the step of actuating the switch to activate the EL lamp.

8. A method in accordance with Claim 7 wherein said step of actuating the switch comprises the step of pushing the switch to activate the EL lamp for a predetermined time.

9. A method in accordance with Claim 7 wherein the switch is a motion switch, said step of actuating the switch comprises the step of opening the advertising medium such that the EL lamp is activated.

10. A method for forming an EL sign, the EL sign including an EL lamp, a control circuit, and a power supply, said method comprising the steps of: connecting the control circuit to the power supply; and positioning a first tab of the control circuit in contact with a first lead of the EL lamp such that the EL lamp is electrically connected to the control circuit.

1 1. A method in accordance with Claim 10 wherein the tab includes at least one pin, said step of positioning a tab comprises the step of extending the at least one pin through the first lead.

12. A method in accordance with Claim 10 wherein the power supply includes a battery, said step of connecting the control circuit comprises the step of connecting the control circuit to the battery.

13. A method in accordance with Claim 12 wherein said step of connecting the control circuit comprises the step of connecting the control circuit to a lithium foil battery.

14. A method in accordance with Claim 10 wherein the EL sign further includes a switch configured to activate the EL lamp, said method further comprising the step of connecting the control circuit to the switch.

15. A method in accordance with Claim 14 wherein said step of connecting the control circuit to the switch comprises the step of connecting the control circuit to a motion switch such that the EL lamp is activated when the switch is moved from a first position to a second position.

16. A method in accordance with Claim 10 further comprising the step of forming an EL lamp.

17. A method in accordance with Claim 16 wherein said step of forming an EL lamp comprises the steps of: applying a coating of light-transmissive conductive material to a rear surface of a polyester film, the first lead extending from the coating of light transmissive conductive material; applying a phosphor layer to the conductive material; applying a dielectric layer to the phosphor layer; applying a rear electrode to the dielectric layer, the rear electrode including a second lead; and applying an insulating layer to the rear electrode.

18. A method in accordance with Claim 16 wherein the control circuit includes a second tab, said method further comprising the step of positioning the second tab of the control circuit in contact with the second lead of the EL lamp such that the EL lamp is electrically connected to the control circuit.

19. A method in accordance with Claim 18 wherein the second tab includes at least one pin, said step of positioning the second tab of the control circuit comprises the step of extending the at least one pin through the second lead.

20. A method in accordance with Claim 16 further comprising the step of laminating the EL lamp layers utilizing heat and pressure.

21. An EL sign comprising: an EL lamp including at least one lead; a control circuit including a plurality of projections extending at least partially through said at least one lead; and a power supply connected to said control circuit.

22. An EL sign in accordance with Claim 21 wherein said power supply comprises a battery.

23. An EL sign in accordance with Claim 22 wherein said battery comprises a lithium foil battery including a pair of leads soldered to said control circuit.

24. An EL sign in accordance with Claim 21 wherein said control circuit comprises at least one tab, said plurality of projections extending from said at least one tab.

25. An EL sign in accordance with Claim 24 wherein said at least one lead comprises a first lead and a second lead, said at least one tab includes a first tab and a second tab, said first tab plurality of projections extending through said first lead, said second tab plurality of projections extending through said second lead.

26. An EL sign in accordance with Claim 21 wherein said projections include a plurality of pins extending at least partially through said at least one lead.

27. An EL sign in accordance with Claim 21 wherein said EL lamp includes: a coating of light-transmissive conductive material applied to a rear surface of a substrate, the first lead extending from the coating of light transmissive conductive material; a phosphor layer applied to the conductive material; a dielectric layer applied to the phosphor layer; a rear electrode applied to the dielectric layer, the rear electrode including a second lead; and an insulating layer applied to the rear electrode.

28. An EL sign in accordance with Claim 21 wherein said EL lamp includes: a rear electrode comprising a coating of light-transmissive conductive material applied to a front surface of a substrate, the first lead extending from the coating of light transmissive conductive material; a dielectric layer applied to the rear electrode; a phosphor layer applied to the dielectric layer; a front electrode applied to the dielectric layer, the front electrode including a second lead; and a protective coat comprising an insulating layer applied to the front electrode.