GB2525014A

GB2525014A - A display system and method

Info

Publication number: GB2525014A
Application number: GB1406447.1A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Mike Beadman; Ben Crundwell; James Baker
Original assignee: MOTIONLED TECHNOLOGY Ltd
Current assignee: MOTIONLED TECHNOLOGY Ltd
Priority date: 2014-04-10
Filing date: 2014-04-10
Publication date: 2015-10-14
Also published as: GB201406447D0

Abstract

A system for displaying images to passengers in a vehicle 6 travelling along a path 1, e.g. in a railway tunnel, comprises a plurality of sensor arrangements 40, 41 and a plurality of display apparatuses 2 arranged along the path. Each display apparatus includes a display controller to time the output of images on the display apparatus to generate an apparently stationary image by persistence of vision which is visible to the passengers. Each display controller receives the outputs of each of the plurality of sensor arrangements and controls the display apparatus accordingly. The sensor arrangements are adapted to determine the speed of the vehicle. An ambient light sensor may also be provided.

Description

A DISPLAY SYSTEM AND METHOD

FTELD OF THE INVENTION.

[04)4)1] The present invention relates to a display system and method in which the passing of vehicles is sensed for the control of the display of apparently stationary images to passeuigers in the vehicles.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

[00021 it is well known to display images to passengers in vehicles travelling along a path. Advertisements and information can be displayed as static or animated images. When the vehicle is moving fast within a confined structure such as a tunnel, images displayed at fixed positions on the tunilel walls move past the visual field of the passengers too quickly to be visible. Prior methods to overcome this problem include iliuminatillg images positioned along the tunnel in time with the movement of the vehicle so as to cause the images to appear at a stationary position in the passengers field of view Such prior methods indude the use of electronic disp'ays positioned along the tunnel and controlled to generate an output in time with the passing of the vehicle. The prior art approaches have particular'y been applied to trains or underground metro systems where the vehicle is confined to a track and the speed at which it travels are usually constrained.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTTON

[9003] One aspect of the invention provides a system for displaying images to passengers in a vehicle travelling along a path, the system comprising a plurality of display apparatuses arranged adjacent to and along the path to generate images visible to the passengers, each display apparatus including a display controfler adapted to coiltrol the display apparatus to time the output of images on the display apparatus to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers; and a plurality of sensor arrailgements arranged along the path, each sensor arraiigement being adapted to detect the vehicle passing along the path to generate an output; wherein each disp'ay controller is adapted to receive the outputs of each of the plurality of sensor arrangements and to control the display apparatus dependent upon the outputs of the lilLirality of sensor arrangements.

[0004] Another aspect of the invention provides a method of displaying images to passengers in a vehicle travefling along a path, the method comprising cletectiiig the vehicle passing along the path using a plurality of sensor anangements ananged along the path, each seuisor arrangement generating a output; and generating images visible to the passengers using a plurality of display apparatuses adjacent to and along the path, each display apparatus illcludlng a display controller controlling the display apparatus to time the output of images on the display apparatus to generate a apparently statiollary image visible to the passengers; wherein each display controller receives the outputs of each of the plurality of sensor arrangements and controls the display apparatus dependent upon the outputs of the plurality of sensor arrangements.

[09051 Another aspect of the invention provides a system for displaying images to passengers in a vehicle travelling along a path, the system comprising a plurality of disp'ay apparatuses arranged adjacent to and along the path in a display region to generate images visible to the passengers in the display region; a plLirality of sensor arrangements arranged along the path in the disp'ay region and in a sensor region past the display region in a direction of travel of the vehicle, the sensor arrangements being adapted to detect the vehicle passing a'ong the path and to generate an output: and a controller arrangement adapted to control the display apparatuses to time the outpLlt of images on the display apparatus to generate apparently stationary images visible to the passengers in the display region, the controfler arrangement being further adapted to control the display apparatus dependent upon the olltpLlts of the plurality of sensor arrangements.

[0006] Another aspect of the invention provides a method of displaying images to passengers in a vehicle travelling along a path, the method comprising deteccifig the vehicle passing along the path using a plurality of sensor anangements arranged along the path in a display region and in a sensor region past the display region in a direction of trave' of the vehicle to generate an output; and generating images visible to the passengers in the display region using a plurality of display apparatuses arranged adjacent to and along the path in the display region, wherein the display apparatuses are controlled to time the output of images on the display apparatus to generate apparently stationary images visible to the passengers in the display region dependent upon the outputs of the plurality of sensor arrangements.

[0007] Another aspect of the invention provides a system for displayillg images to passengers in a wheeled vehicle travelling along a path on a rail structure, the system comprising a plurality of display apparatuses arranged adjacent to and along the path to generate images visible to the passengers; a plurality of sensor arrangements arranged on the rail structure along the path to detect the wheels of the vehicle passing on the rail structure along the path, each sensor arrangement being adapted to provide a speed detection output as each wheel passes and being placed a distance apart predetermined dependent upon a maximum length of the vehicle: and a controller arrangement adapted to control the display apparatuses to time the output of images on the display apparatus to generate apparently stationary images visible to the passengers, the controller arrangement being further adapted to control the display apparatus dependent upon the outputs of the plurality of sensor arrangements.

[000$] Another aspect of the invention provides a method of displaying images to passengers in a wheeled vehicle travelling along a path on a rail structure, the method comprising detecting the wheels of the vehicle passing on the rail structure along the path using a plurality of sensor arrangements arranged on the rail structure along the path to, each sensor arrangement providing a speed detection output as each wheel passes and lying a distance apart predetermined dependent upon a maximum length of the vehicle: and controlling a p'urality of display apparatuses arranged adjacent to mid alofig the path to generate images visible to the passengers, wherein the display apparatuses are controlled to time the output of images Oil the display apparatus to generate apparently stationary images visible to the passengers dependent upon the outputs of the plurality of sensor arrangements.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a display system of one embodiment of the invention; [0910] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a display apparatus of one embodiment of the invention; [00111 Figure 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a display system of another embodiment of the invention; [0012] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a display apparatus of another embodiment of the inveiltion; [0013] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a sensor arrangement according to one embodiment of the invention; [00141 Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a sensor arrangement according to another embodiment of the invention; [00151 Figure 7 is a schematic diagram illustrating a display system of a further embodiment of the invention; [0916] Figuit 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating a display system of yet another embodiment of the invention; [0917] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating a sensor arrangement according to a further embodiment of the invention; [0918] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating a display system of yet another embodiment of the invention; and [0919] Figure Ii is a schematic diagram illustrating a display system of a further embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] In the following detafled description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the inventive subject matter maybe practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice them, and it is to he understood that other embodiments maybe utilized and that structural, logical, and electrical changes may he made without departing from the scope of the inventive subject matter. SLich embodiments of the inventive subject matter maybe referred to, individuafly andJor collectively, herein by the term "invention" merely for convenience and without intending to voluntarily limit the scope of this application to any single inventioii or inventive concept if more than one is in fact disclosed.

[00211 The following description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limited seilse, and the scope of the inventive subject matter is defined by the appeilded claims.

[0022] in the followifig embodiments, like componeilts are labeled with like reference mirnerals.

[0923] The functions or algorithms described herein are implemented in hardware, software or a combination of software and hardware in one embodiment.

The software comprises computer executable instructions stored on computer readable media such as memory or other type of storage devices. Further, described functions may correspond to modules, which may he software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. Multiple functions are performed in one or more modules as desired, and the embodiments described are merdy exampfrs. The software is executed on a digital signal processor, ASTC, microprocessor, or other type of processor operating on a system, such as a personal computer, server, a router, or other device capahe of processing data including network interconnection devices.

[0924] Some embodiments implement the functions in two or more specific interconnected hardware modifies or devices with related control and data signals communicated between and through the modules, or as portions of an application-specific ifitegrated circuit. Thus, the exemplary process flow is applicable to software, firmware, and hardware implementations.

[0025] The system and method of embodiments of the ifivention gellerate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers, which comprises a static or moving image (e.g. a picture or video) which appears to a passenger in a moving vehide in a stationary location viewed from a position in the vehicle e.g. out of a window. Aithough the term stationary is used, it is to he understood that this is not an absolute term and the image visible to the passengers may move about sUghtly, due to factors such as, variations in the speed of the vehide, inaccurate display apparatus positlolling, of delays in timing control signals.

[0026] The inveiltion is applicable to any vehicle travelling along a path and carrying passengers. Embodiments are particularly applicable to passenger carrying vehicles that are constrained to run along a coilfined path such as a track or rail structure, such as a train, train, metro, underground transport vehicle, or mono rail.

[0027] The inveiltion provides for the display of images. it is particularly applicable for use in consistent ambient light conditions e.g. low ambient light conditions. Although it can be used at night in open locations, unless the brightness of the output of the displays are variable dependent upon the ambient light conditions, the time it can be operated is restricted. It is ideally suited for use in tunnels, where the ambient light is relatively consistent and low and the sides of the tunnel provides a convenient mounting structure. Further, the passengers are not afforded any view out of the windows except for the images from the displays, which does not interrupt their view and increases the likelihood of them watching the images. This is highly advantageous for the display of advertisements in still or moving form.

[092$] Figure 1 illustrates a first embodiment of the invention. A vehicle comprising a train 6 in this embodiment is traveling in a direction indicated by the arrow along a path, which in this embodiment is defined by a track structure I and which acts to confine the path of the train 6. The train 6 carries passengers along the path and has windows 7 through which the passengers can view the adjacent area.

Lying along and adjacent to the track structure 1 at a level with the windows 7 of the train 6 are display apparatuses 2 for generating output images to be visible to the passengers in the train 6 as they pass the display apparatuses 2. ill this embodiment the display apparatuses 2 comprise linear display apparatuses, which comprise a column of display elements, such as disclosed in US6, 169,368, the contents of which is hereby incorporated in its entirety by reference. Each row of the column of display elements generates a complete TOW of a displayed image by sequentially outputting image pixels. The column of display elements has a row dimension that is much less than the width of the image to he disp'ayed to the passengers. The movement of the viewing passengers past the display apparatuses 2 acts as a relative scanning of the output image pixels in the horizontal direction to play out the image across the width of a display area. A row can comprise a single display element, such as an RGB Light Emitting Diode (LED), or a few such elements actillg together. The benefits of using such columnar display apparatuses 2 compared to conventional full 2D display apparatuses are that the displays take up less space and hence do not obstruct access to structures along the side of the track structure 1, they have a lower surface area and are hence less prone to damage such as from stones, and can be manufactured at lower cost.

[00291 The display apparatuses 2 can be mounted on the side of a tunnel through which the train 6 is passing (or on structures alongside a train or train track for example) and are connected together and to a control unit 5, which can comprise a digital apparatus such as a computer. The control unit 5 can act to control the display apparatuses 2 to output the images at the correct time so that an apparently stationary image is visible to the passengers at a position relative to the window 7 of the train 6. The apparently stationary image can he a stifl image or a moving image (a video). For the display of a video, the first display apparatus 2 that the train 6 comes to can display a first frame of the video, the next display apparatus the second frame and so on. The display of the frame needs to he timed to the speed of the train 6 so as to appear at the correct position in the window 7 of the train 6. In this embodiment a sensor arrangement 4 is provided at a position along the path to detect a froilt part of the train before it passes the first display apparatus. The seuisor arrangement 4 can provide a train speed signal which can be used by the control unit or by the display apparatuses 2 using separate independent display controllers to control each display apparatus 2 to output the correct image at the correct time that the train 6 passes. Hence, the sensor arrangement 4 can provide an initial train speed to he used for control. However, the train may change speed after passing the sensor arrangement 4 and if this is not compensated for, the image seen by the passengers will move along the train 6. A mechanism to compensate for a change of the speed of the train 6 will he described with reference to figure 2.

[0030] The coiltrol uiut 5 can be used to store a library of images for the display apparatuses 2 and such images can be downloaded to appropriate display apparatuses 2 when it is desired to change the displayed images.

[0031] Figure 2 illustrates a display apparatus 2 according to one embodiment which incorporates a sensor circuit 22 for processing signals for an associated sensor arrangement. The sensor anangement ca be associated with a display apparatus 2 by being incorporated within a housing of the display apparatus 2 or attached thereto. It may alternatively simply be positioned close by at a known distance.

[90321 The display apparatus includes a microprocessor 21 acting as a display controller to control the linear LED display array 20 to display images stored in a memory 24 in dependence upon the signal from the sensor circuit 22. A network connector 23 is connected to tile microprocessor 21 to enable data to he passed to the control unit 5 and to other display apparatuses 2 via a communication network such as an Ethernet. In particular, the signal from the sensor circuit can he transmitted to all of the display apparatuses 2 to he used by them to control the display of images.

[9033] This arrangement enaffles a sensor arrangement associated with each display apparatus to detect the passing of a front part of the train 6 and to output a signa' indicative of the position of the train 6 or to output a train speed signal. The structure of the sensor arrangements in this embodiment will he described in more detail with reference to figures 5 aild 6 hereinafter. The signals from the sensor arrangements can hence be used to monitor the train speed as it passes each display apparatus 2 and the signal can be used by each display apparatus 2 to adjust the output images accordingly. The association of the sensor arrangements with the display apparatuses 2 avoids the need for the installation of separate components and provides regifiar train speed update signals.

[0034] Figure 3 illustrates a display system according to another embodiment, in which tile display apparatuses comprise 2D display apparatuses 30.

The structure and operation of this embodiment is otherwise similar to the structure and operation of the embodiment of figure 1. The structure of the display apparatuses 30 of this embodiment are illustrated in figure 4. In this embodiment, the microprocessor 21 contrcds a 2D display 200 which can comprise a conventional LED or LCD display, or a plasma display for example. The structure and operation of this embodiment are otherwise the same as described for the first embodiment with reference to figure 2.

[00351 Figure 5 is a schematic illustration of a sensor arrangement 300 according to one embodiment for use in the embodiments of figures 1 to 4. An optical sensor 301 is provided to detect the passing of a front part of the train 6. The optical sensor 301 can be of the type that outputs an optical signal to be reflected from a part of the train 6 and sensed by an optical detector. The presence of a train 6 is hence detected by a change in output of the optical detector as reflected light is detected when a train 6 is opposite the sensor arrangement 300. Alternatively, a reflective material can he placed at a position opposite e.g. on the other side of the tunnel and an output optical signal is reflected off the material and detected by an optical detector. The presence of a train 6 is detected when the beam is broken.

119036] The sensor arrangement 300 includes sensor electronics 302 to power and process the output of the optical sensor 301 to generate an output signal 303.

119037] The sensor arrangement 300 of this embodiment only provides an output signal which is indicative of the train 6 passing the sensor arrangement 300.

In order to provide a train speed signal, this signal must he used in combination with a signal from at least oiie other sensor arrangement 300. The distance between the sensor arrangements 300 is known and hence the speed of the train 6 can be calculated using the sensor arrangements signals 303.

[003$] Figure 6 illustrates a schematic iflustration of a sensor arrangement 310 according to an alternative embodiment for use in the embodiments of figLires I to 4. A first and second optical sensor 311 and 312 are provided to detect the passing of the train 6. The optical sensors 311 and 312 can he of the same optical type as described for the embodiment of figure 5. The optical sensors 3 I I and 3 I 2 are spaced a known distance apart. The sensor electronics 313 uses the signals from the optical sensors 311 and 312 to calculate the speed of the train 6 and outputs a signal 314 indicative of the speed of the train 6.

[0039] Although optical sensors are described for use in the embodiments of figures 1 to 4, any type of proximity sensor can be used to detect the passing of the train, such as inductive sensors, magnetic sensors, tactile sensors etc. [0040] In the embodiments of figures 1 to 4, a single part of the train 6 is detected using multiple sensors arrangements spaced at a relatively short distance apart. The distance apart can depend upon the maximum speed of the train 6.

[0041] The provision of a sensor arrangement associated with each display apparatus 2 enables the sensor arrangement to be used to trigger the switching on of the first image for display to the passengers in the first window 7 of the train 6. In a tunnel, the displays can he inactive until a train 6 passes to avoid distracting a driver of the train 6.

[0042] Figure 7 is a schematic illustration of a display system according to another embodiment of the invention. Tn this embodiment, the sensor arrangements and 41 are arranged on the track structure to detect the wheels 50 of the train 6 as they l along the track structure I. The benefit of detecting the wheels 50 of the train 6 is that there are multiple identical structures that can he detected passing along the track structure 1 for the train 6 rather than only relying on the detection of one part i.e. a front part, of the train 6. In this embodiment, since more parts of the train 6 can be detected allowing speed measurements from the wheels 50 of the train 6 all along the length of the train 6, less sensor arrangements 40 and 41 are required.

[0043] The signals from the sensor arrangements 40 and 41 are input to the control unit 5 and/or the display apparatuses 2 as described with reference to the embodiments of figures I to 4. Figure 7 shows the output of the sensor arrangement 41 being input directly to the control unit 5. It can allernatively be connected to the network connecting the display apparatuses 2 together as is the sensor arrangement 40. In this embodiment, so long as the train 6 is passing over a sensor arrangement or 41, regular speed measurements are available from the wheels 50. In order to ensure regular speed measurements are majiltained when the train 6 passes alofig an area of display apparatuses 2 longer than the length of the train 6, the sensor arrangements of this embodiment are preferably arranged separated by a distance which is less than the minimum length of the train 6.

[00441 In the embodiment illustrated in figure 7 the first sensor arrangement is placed at a position alollg the track structure 1 that the nain 6 will pass before passing the first display apparatus 2. This ensures that the first wheel 50 of the train will give an initial train speed signal to be used for initial control of the display of the images by the display apparatuses 2.

[90451 Figure 8 is a schematic illustration of a display system according to a further embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, the sensor arrangements and 41 are arranged either side of a display zone where the display apparatuses 2 are located. The sensor arrangements 40 and 41 can provide an initial train speed signa' for a train 6 or 6a travefling in either direction. It can also he used to control not just the timing of the display of the images, bLit a'so the sequence. When the train 6 is traveling from left to right, the disp'ay apparatuses 2 must display the images of a video in a sequence frame by frame from left to right. V/lien the train 6a is traveling from right to left, the display apparatuses 2 must display the images of a video in a sequence frame by frame from right to left. Although only the sensor arrangements 40 and 41 are illustrated in this embodiment, if the display zone is longer than the minimum length of the train 6 (which is usually the case), additional sensor anangements will be spaced along the display zone. A train may for example be 50 to lOOm long and the display zone 300m long. In this case sensor arrangement will need to be placed every 50 to lOOm dependent upon the length of the train to ensure a speed signal is always available for the train as it passes the display zone.

[04)46] Figure 9 is a schematic illustration of a sensor arrangement 410 according to one embodiment for use in the embodiments of figures 7 and 8. A first inductive sensor 411 and a second inductive sensor 412 are spaced a known distance apart and provide signals when a wheel 50 of the train 6 passes the respective sensor. Sensor electronics 313 is provided to receive the output of the inductive sensors 411 aild 412 and to calculate the speed of the train 6 to output a speed signal 415.

[90471 Proximity type sensors suitable for use with this embodiment are available from Honeywell and ca comprise the Holleywell 926FS30 Series of Railwheel Proximity Sensors, or equivalent sensors available from Frauscher, Tiefenbach and Smith Systems.

[00481 This embodiment has the benefit of not relying on optical sensors which can get dirty and require cleaning and does require a large number of sensor arrangements to provide regular train speed signals as a train 6 passes a display zone. It does however require the placement of the sensor arrangements on the track structure 1.

[0049] Figure 10 is a schematic iflustration of a display system of another embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment the display apparatuses 35 are arranged along the path (track structure 1) in a display zone. The display apparatuses 35 can comprise the linear arrays of the embodiment of figure 1 or the 2D display apparatLises of the embodiment of figure 3. The display zone is longer than the length of the train 60 and can he very much onger than the maximum length of the train 60 (L) to enable long videos to he displayed to the passengers of the train 60. Sensor arrangements 45 of the type described with reference to the embodiments of figures I to 4 are arranged a'ong and adjacent to the track structure I in the display zone and at in a sensor zone extending at least the maximum ength L of the train 60 after the display zone. A sensor arrailgement ca also be provided ust before the display zone to provide an initial speed signal for use in the control of the initial display of the images.

[04)50] The positioning of the sensor arrangements 45 in the sensor zone ensures that train speed measurements are available thr the train 60 while any part of the train 60 lies in the display zone i.e. whfle any images are being displayed to passengers at the rear of the train 60.

119051] This embodiment requires a large number of sensors to detect the same part i.e. a front part, of the train 60.

[0052] Figure 11 is a schematic illustration of a display system of an alternative embodiment of the invention. The principles of this embodiment are similar to the principles of the embodiment illustrated ill figure 10. This embodiment however uses different sensor arrangements 46: the sensor arrangements used in the embodiments of figures 7 to 9.

[09531 The wheel sensing sensor arrangements 46 are spaced along the track structure 1 separated by the minimum length of the train 60 to ensure that speed signals are regularly available for the control of the display apparatuses 35. The sensor arrangements 46 are positioned along the track structure 1 in the display zone and in the sensor zone, which has a length equal to the maximum train length L. [0954] Although in the embodiments of figures 7 to 9 and I! inductive sensor arrangements are described, alternative wheel sensor arrangements can he used such as capacitive sensors, optical sensors, or any type of proximity sensor.

Also, although a sensor arrangement has been described comprising two sensors, as an alierriative each sensor arrangement can have on'y one sensor and multip'e sensor arrangements can he placed at kiiown separations along the track structure.

The outputs of at least two sensor arrangements are used to cakulate a speed signal for the train from the detections of the wheels [0955] In one embodiment of the invention, which can he incorporated with any other earlier described embodiment, at least one ambient light measuring anangeinent is provided to measure ambiefit light. The display out pf the displays is controlled in accordance with the detected ambience light either by a central control of by controls on each display. Hence, when the detected ambient light level is high, the output light intensity of the displays is increased to increase the visibility of the displayed images to the passengers in the vehide passing by. Tn one embodiment, each display apparatus having its OWB controller can include an ambient light sensing arrangement to control each display independently. In an alternative embodiment, one ambient light sensor is used to contro' all displays or an average of a number of ambient light sensor arrangements is used to control all the displays.

[0056] Hence one aspect of the invention provides [0057] The following is a description of some generalized embodiments.

Any embodiment can be used in combination with any other embodiment.

[0058] One embodiment provides a system for displaying images to passengers in a vehicle travelling along a path, the system comprising a plurality of display apparatuses arranged adjacent to and along the path to generate images visible to the passengers, each display apparatus including a display controller adapted to control the display apparatus to time the output of images on the display apparatus to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers; and a plurality of sensor arrangements arranged along the path, each sensor arrangement being adapted to detect the vehicle passing along the path to generate an output; wherein each disp'ay controller is adapted to receive the outputs of each of the plurality of sensor arrangements and to control the display apparatus dependent upon the outputs of the plurality of sensor arrangements.

[0059] In one embodiment each sensor arrangement is adapted to generate an output indicative of the speed of the vehicle.

[0060] In one embodiment wherein each sensor arrangement is adapted to generate an output indicative of the time a part of the vehicle passed the sensor arrangement, and the display controllers are adapted to compare the outputs of at least two sensor arrangements for the control of the display apparatus.

[0061] In one embodiment the vehicle has a maximum permitted speed along the path, and the sensor arrangements are spaced along the path dependent upon the maximum permitted speed.

[04)62] In one embodiment at least one said sensor arrangement is arranged along the path at a position the vehicle will pass before passing any said display apparatuses.

119063] In one embodiment the vehicle can travel in either direction along the path and at least said one sensor arrangement is arranged at either end of the path at a position the vehicle will pass before passing any said display apparatuses.

[0064] In one embodiment each display apparatus has a said sensor arrangement associated therewith to trigger the display apparatus to initiate the display of images when the associated sensor arrangemeilt detects a front of the vehicle.

[0065] In one embodiment the plurality of sensor arrangements are each adapted to detect a front part of the vehicle passing along the path to generate the output- [90661 Another embodiment provides a method of displaying images to passengers in a vehicle travelling along a path, the method comprising detecting the vehicle passing along the path using a plurality of sensor arrangements arranged along the path, each sensor arrangement generating an output; and generating images visible to the passengers using a plurality of disp'ay apparatuses adjacent to and along the path, each display apparatus inclLlding a display controller controfling the display apparatus to time the output of images on the display apparatus to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers: wherein each display controller receives the olltpLlts of each of the p'urality of sensor arrangements and controls the display apparatus dependent upon the oitputs of the plurality of sensor arrangements.

[9067] In one embodiment the output of each sensor arrangement is indicative of the speed of the vehicle.

[0068] In one embodiment the output of each sensor arrangement is indicative of the time a part of the vehicle passed the sensor arrangement, and the display controllers compare the outputs of at least two said sensor arraxgements for the control of the display apparatus.

[04)69] In one embodiment the vehicle has a maximLim permitted speed along the path, and tile sensor arrangements are spaced along the path dependent upon the maximum permitted speed.

119070] In one embodiment at least one said sensor arrangement is arranged along the path at a position the vehicle will pass before passing any said display apparatuses.

[0071] In one embodiment the vehicle can travel ill either direction along the path and at least one said sensor arrangement is arranged at either end of the path at a position the vehicle will pass before passing any said display apparatuses.

[90721 In one embodiment the method includes using a said sensor arrangement associated with each display apparatus to trigger the display apparatus to initiate the display of images when the associated sensor arrangement detects a front of the vehicle.

[90731 In one embodiment the plurality of sensor arrangements each detect a front part of the vehicle passing along the path to generate the output.

[90741 Another embodiment provides a system for displaying images to passengers in a vehicle travelling along a path, the system comprising a plurality of display apparatuses arranged adjacent to and along the path in a display region to generate images visible to the passengers in the display region; a plurality of sensor arrangements arranged along the path in the display region and in a sensor region past the display region in a direction of trave' of the vehicle, the sensor arrangements being adapted to detect the vehicle passing a'ong the path and to generate an output: and a controller arrangement adapted to control the display apparatuses to time the outpLlt of images on the display apparatus to generate apparently stationary images visible to the passengers in the display region, the controfler arrangement being further adapted to control the display apparatus dependent upon the outputs of the plurality of sensor arrangements.

[09751 In one embodiment the plurality of sensor arrangements are each adapted to detect a front part of the vehicle passifig along the path to generate the output.

[04)76] In one embodiment the vehicle has a known ength, and the sensor arrangements are spaced less than a length of the vehicle.

[0977] In one embodiment the vehicle has a known ength, and the display region is longer than the vehicle.

[007$] In one embodiment at least one said sensor arrangement is arranged along the path at a position the vehicle will pass before passing any said display apparatuses.

[00791 In one embodiment the vehick can travel in either direction along the path and at least one said sensor arrangement is anmiged at either end of the path at a position the vehicle will pass before passing any said display apparatuses.

[0080] Another embodiment provides a method of displaying images to passengers in a vehide travelling a'ong a path, the method comprising detecting the vehicle passing along the path using a plurality of sensor arrangements arranged a'ong the path in a disp'ay region and in a sensor region past the display region in a direction of travel of the vehicle to generate an output; and generating images visible to the passengers in the display region using a plurality of display apparatuses arranged adjacent to and along the path in the display region, wherein the display apparatuses are controlled to time the output of images Ofl the display apparatus to generate apparently stationary images visible to the passengers in the display region dependent upon the outpLlts of the p'urality of sensor arrangements.

[0981] In one embodiment the p'urality of sensor arrangements detect a front part of the vehicle passing along the path to generate the output.

[0982] In one embodiment the vehicle has a known ength, and the sensor arrangements are spaced less than a length of the vehicle.

[0083] In one embodiment the vehicle has a known ength, and the display region is longer than the vehicle.

[0084] In one embodiment at least one said sensor arrangemeilt is arranged along the path at a position the vehide will pass before passing any said display apparatuses.

[04)85] In one embodiment the vehicle can travel in either direction along the path and at least said one sensor arrangement is arranged at either end of the path at a position tile vehicle will pass before passing any said display apparatuses.

[9086] Another embodiment provides a system for displaying images to passengers in a wheeled vehicle travefling along a path on a rail structure, the system comprising a plurality of display apparatuses arranged adj acent to and along the path to generate images visible to the passengers; a plurality of seuisor arrangements arranged on the rail structure along the path to detect the wheels of the vehicle passing on the rail structure along the path, each sensor arrangement being adapted to provide a speed detection ourpifi as each wheel passes and being placed a distance apart predetermined dependeilt upon a maximum length of the vehicle; and a controller arrangement adapted to control the display apparatuses to time the output of images on the display apparatus to generate apparently stationary images visible to the passengers, the controller arrangement being further adapted to control the display apparatus dependent upon the outputs of the plurality of sensor arrangements.

[0987] In one embodiment each sensor arrangement comprises an inductive or capacitive sensor arrangement.

[0988] In one embodiment at least one said sensor arrangement is arranged along the path at a position the vehicle will pass before passing any said display apparatuses.

[0989] In one embodiment the vehicle can travel in either direction along the path and at least one said sensor arrangement is arranged at either end of the path at a position the vehicle will pass before passing any said display apparatuses.

[0990] Another embodiment provides a method of displaying images to passengers in a wheeled vehicle travefling along a path on a rail structure, the method comprlsillg detecting the wheels of the vehicle passing on the rail structure along the path using a plurality of sensor arrangements arranged on the rail structure alofig the path to, each sensor arrangement providing a speed detection output as each wheel passes and lying a distance apart predetermined dependent upon a maximum length of the vehicle; and controlling a plurality of display apparatuses arranged adjacent to and along the path to generate images visible to the passengers, wherein the display apparatuses are controlled to time the output of images on the display apparatus to generate apparently stationary images visible to the passengers dependent upon the olltpLlts of the plurality of sensor arrangements.

[0091] In one embodiment each sensor arrangement comprises an illductive or capacitive sensor arrangemeilt.

[09921 In one embodiment at least one said sensor arrangement is arranged along the path at a position the vehicle will pass before passing any said display apparatuses.

[0093] In one embodiment the vehicle can travel ill either direction along the path and at least one said sensor arrangement is arranged at either end of the path at a position the vehicle will pass before passing any said display apparatuses.

[00941 It will be readily understood to those skilled in the art that various other changes in the details, material, and arrangements of the parts and method stages which have been described and illustrated in order to explain the nature of the inventive subject matter may he made without departing from the principles and scope of the inventive subject matter as expressed in the subjoined claims.

Claims

CLAHYIS-A system for displaying images to passengers in a vehicle travelling along a path, the system comprising: a plurality of display apparatuses arranged adjacent to and along the path to generate images visible to the passengers, each display apparatus including a display controller adapted to control the display apparatus to time the output of images on the display apparatus to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers; and a plurality of sensor arrangements arranged along the path, each sensor arrangement being adapted to detect the vehicle passing along the path to generate an output; wherein each display controller is adapted to receive the outputs of each of the plurality of sensor arrangements and to control the display apparatus dependent upon the outputs of the plurality of sensor arrangements.
2. A system according to claim i, wherein each sensor arrangement is adapted to generate an output indicative of the speed of the vehicle.
3. A system according to claim i, wherein each sensor arrangement is adapted to generate an output indicative of the time a part of the vehicle passed the sensor arrangement, and the display controllers are adapted to compare the outputs of at least two sensor arrangements for the control of the disp'ay apparatus.
4. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the vehicle has a maximum permitted speed along the path, and the sensor arrangements are spaced along the path dependent upon the maximum permitted speed.
5. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein at least one said sensor arrangement is arranged along the path at a position the vehicle will pass before passing an)' said display apparatuses.
6. A system according to claim 5, wherein the vehicle can travel in either direction along the path and at least said one sensor arrangement is arranged at either end of the path at a position the vehicle will pass before passing any said display apparatuses.
7. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein each display apparatus has a said sensor anangement associated therewith to trigger the display apparatus to initiate the display of images when the associated sensor arrangement detects a front of the vehicle.
8. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the phwality of sensor arrangements are each adapted to detect a front part of the vehicle passing along the path to generate the output.
9. A method of displaying images to passengers in a vehide travelling along a path, tile method comprising: detecting the vehicle passing along the patTi using a plurality of sensor arrangements arranged along the path, each sensor arrangement generating an output; and generating images visible to the passengers using a plurality of display apparatuses adjacent to and along the path, each display apparatus including a display controller controlling the display apparatus to time the output of images on the display apparatus to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers; wherein each display controfler receives the outputs of each of the plurality of sensor arrangements and controls the display apparatus dependent upon the outputs of the plurality of sensor arrangements.
10-A method according to claim 9, wherein the output of each sensor arrangement is indicative of the speed of the vehicle.
11. A method according to claim 9, wherein the output of each sensor arrangement is indicative of the time a part of the vehicle passed the sensor arrangement, and the display controllers compare the outputs of at least two said sensor arrangements for the control of the display apparatus.
12. A method according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the vehicle has a maximum permitted speed along the path, and the sensor arrangements are spaced along the path dependent upon the maximum permitted speed.
13-A method according to any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein at least one said sensor arrangement is arranged along the path at a position the vehicle will pass before passing any said display apparatuses.
14. A method according to claim 13, wherein the vehicle can travel in either direction along the path and at east one said sensor arrangement is arranged at either end of the path at a position the vehicle will pass before passing any said display apparatuses.
15. A method according to any one of claims 8 to 14, including using a said sensor arrangement associated with each display apparatus to trigger the display apparatus to initiate the display of images when the associated sensor arrangement detects a front of the vehicle.
16-A method according to any one of claims 8 to 15, wherein the plurality of sensor arrangements each detect a front part of the vehicle passing athng the path to generate the output.
17. A system for displaying images to passengers in a vehicle travelling along a path, the system comprising: a plurality of display apparatuses arranged adjacent to and along the path in a display region to generate images visible to the passengers in the display region: a plurality of sensor arrangements arranged along the path in the display region and in a sensor region past the display region in a direction of travel of the vehicle, the sensor arrangements being adapted to detect the vehicle passing along the path and to generate an output; and a controller arrangement adapted to control the display apparatuses to time the output of images on the display apparatus to generate apparently stationary images visible to the passengers in the display region, the controller arrangement being further adapted to control the display apparatus dependent upon the outputs of the plurality of sensor arrangements.
18. A system according to claim 17, wherein the p'urality of sensor arrangements are each adapted to detect a front part of the vehicle passing along the path to generate the output.
19-A system according to claim 17 or claim 18, wherein the vehicle has a known length, and the sensor arrangements are spaced less than a length of the vehide.
20. A system according to any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein the vehicle has a known length, and the display region is longer than the vehicle.
2k A system according to any one of claims 17 to 20, wherein at least one said sensor arrangement is arranged athng the path at a position the vehicle will pass before passing any said display apparatuses.
22. A system according to claim 2i, wherein the vehicle can travel in either direction along the path and at least one said sensor anangement is arranged at either end of the path at a position the vehicle will pass before passing any said display apparatuses.
23. A method of displaying images to passengers in a vehicle travelling along a path, the method comprising: detecting the vehicle passing along the path using a plurality of sensor arrangements arranged along the path in a display region and in a sensor region past the display region in a direction of travel of the vehicle to generate an output; and generating images visible to the passengers in the display region using a plurality of display apparatuses arranged adiacent to and along the path in the display region, wherein the display apparatuses are controlled to time the output of images on the display apparatus to generate apparently stationary images visible to the passengers in the display region dependent upon the outputs of the plurality of sensor arrangements.
24. A method according to claim 23, wherein the plurality of sensor arrangements detect a front part of the vehicle passing along the path to generate the output.
25. A method according to claim 23 or claim 24, wherein the vehicle has a known length, and the sensor arrangements are spaced less than a length of the vehicle.
26. A method according to any one of claims 23 to 25, wherein the vehicle has a known length, and the display region is onger than the vehicle.
27. A method according to any one of claims 23 to 26, wherein at least one said sensor arrangement is arranged along the path at a position the vehicle will pass before passing any said display apparatuses.
28. A method according to claim 27, wherein the vehide can trave' in either direction along the path and at least said one sensor arrangement is arranged at either end of the path at a position the vehide will pass before passing any said display apparatuses.
29. A system for disp'aying images to passengers in a wheeled vehicle travelling a'ong a path on a rail structure, the system comprising: a plurality of disp'ay apparatuses arranged adiacent to and along the path to generate images visible to the passengers; a plurality of sensor arrangements arranged on the rail structure along the path to detect the wheels of the vehicle passing on the rail structure along the path, each sensor arrangement being adapted to provide a speed detection output as each whee' passes and being placed a distance apart predetermined dependent UOfl a maximum length of the vehicle; and a controfler arrangement adapted to control the display apparatuses to time the output of images on the disp'ay apparatLis to generate apparently stationary images visible to the passengers, the controller arrangement being further adapted to contro' the display apparatus dependent upon the outputs of the plurality of sensor arrangements.
30. A system according to claim 29, wherein each sensor arrangement comprises an inductive or capacitive sensor anangement.
3k A system according to claim 29 or claim 30, wherein at least one said sensor arrangement is arranged along the path at a position the vehicle will pass before passing any said display apparatuses.
32. A system according to claim 31, wherein the vehicle can travel in either direction along the path and at least one said sensor arrangement is arranged at either end of the path at a position the vehicle will pass before passing any said display apparatuses.
33. A method of displaying images to passengers in a wheeled vehicle travelling along a path on a rail structure, the method comprising: detecting the wheels of the vehicle passing on the rail structure along the path using a plurality of sensor arrangements arranged on the rail structure along the path to, each sensor arrangement providing a speed detection output as each wheel passes and lying a distance apart predetermined dependent upon a maximum length of the vehicle; and controlling a pluraUty of display apparatuses arranged adjacent to and along the path to generate images visible to the passengers, wherein the display apparatuses are controlled to time the output of images on the display apparatus to generate apparently stationary images visible to the passengers dependent upon the outputs of the p'urality of sensor arrangements.
34. A method according to claim 33, wherein each sensor arrangement comprises an inductive or capacitive sensor arrangement.
35. A method according to claim 29 or claim 30, wherein at least one said sensor anangement is anaiiged along the path at a position the vehicle will pass before passing any said display apparatuses.
36. A method according to claim 35, wherein tile vehicle can travel in either direction along the path and at east one said sensor arrangement is arranged at either end of the path at a position the vehicle will pass before passing any said display apparatuses.
37. A system for displaying images to passengers in a vehicle travelling along a path, the system comprising: a plurality of display apparatuses arranged adiacent to and along the path to generate images visible to the passeilgers; a sensor arrangement arranged along the path to detect the vehicle passing along the path; an ambient light sensing arrangement to sense ambient light level; and a controller arrangement adapted to control the display apparatuses to time the output of images on the display apparatus to generate apparently stationary images visible to the passengers, the controller arrangement being further adapted to control the display apparatus dependent upon the output of the sensor arrangement and the ambient light sensing arrangement.
38. A system according to claim 37, wherein said controller arrangement comprises a controller for each display apparatus, and the ambient light sensing arrangement comprises an ambient light sensor for each display apparatus, each said controfler being adapted to control the level of the output of the corresponding display apparatus dependent upon the corresponding ambient light sensor.
39. A method of displaying images to passengers in a vehide travelling along a path, the method comprising: detecting a vehicle passillg along the path; sensing ambient light level; and controlling a plurality of display apparatuses arranged adjacent to and along the path to generate images visible to the passengers and to time the output of images on the display apparatus to generate apparently stationary images visible to the passengers, and to control each disp'ay apparatus dependent upon the sensed ambient light leveL
40. A method according to claim 39, wherein each display apparatus is controlled separately, the ambient light level is seilseci for each display apparatus, and the level of the output of each display apparatus is coiltrolled dependent upon the corresponding ambient light sensor.