GB2525016A

GB2525016A - A display apparatus and method

Info

Publication number: GB2525016A
Application number: GB1406457.0A
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: GB201406457D0

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 sensor arrangement 4, a plurality of display apparatuses 30 arranged along the path and a control arrangement 5. Each display apparatus is controlled to generate an apparently stationary video by persistence of vision. Each display apparatus is further adapted to detect faults related to the output of the images, to store parameters indicative of the detected faults, and to transmit the parameters to a remote device for consolidation of the parameters. The system may further comprise an Ethernet network wherein the display apparatuses each include an Ethernet switch to connect to the network and a power supply to power the Ethernet switch, the switch being adapted to draw power over Ethernet (PoE) if the power supply fails.

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 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; at least one sensor arrangement to detect the vehicle passing along the path to generate an output; and a display control arrangement to control the display apparatuses to output images on the display apparatuses to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the output of the at least one sensor arrangement; whereill each display apparatus is adapted to detect faults related to the output of the images, to store parameters indicative of the detected faults, and to transmit the parameters to a remote device for consolidation of the parameters.

[0004] One 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 to generate an output; controlling a plurality of display apparatuses arranged adjacent to and along the path to output images on the display apparatuses to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the output; wherein each display apparatus detects faults related to the output of the images, stores parameters indicative of the detected faults, and transmits the parameters to a remote device for consolidation of the parameters.

[0005] 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 in a sequence adiacent to and along the path to generate images visible to the passengers, and connected together by a network; at least one sensor arrangement to detect the vehicle passing along the path and to generate an output: and a display control arrangement to control the display apparatuses to output images on the display apparatuses to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the output of the at least one sensor arrangement, and to automatically identify a position in the sequence for each said display apparatus connected to the network and to control each display apparatus using a respective said identified position [0906] One embodiment provides a method of displaying images to passengers in a vehicle travelling along a path, the method comprising connecting a plurality of disp'ay apparatuses arranged as a sequence adjacent to and along the path by a network; detecting the vehicle passing along the path using at least one sensor arrangement and generating an output; controlling the display apparatuses to output images on the display apparatuses to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the output of the at least one sensor arrangement: and automatically identifying a position in the sequence tbr each said display apparatus connected to the network; wherein each display apparatus is controfled using a respective said identified position.

[0007] One embodiment provides a system for displaying images to passengers in a vehicle travelling along a path, the system comprising at least one sensor anangement to detect the vehicle passing along the path to generate an output; and 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 to control the output of images to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the output of the at least one sensor arrangement: wherein each display apparatus comprises identically configured hardware including a programmable processor and program memory storing code for execution by the processor, each display apparatus being programmed to execute different functions.

[09081 One embodiment provides a method displaying images to passengers in a vehicle travelling along a path, the method comprising detecting the vehicle passing along the path to generate an output; and controlling each of a plura'ity of display apparatuses arranged adjacent to and along the path to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the output of the at least one sensor arrangement: the controfling by each display apparatus being carried out by identically configured hardware including a programmable processor and program memory storing code for execution by the processor, the code for each display apparatus processor executing different functions.

[0909] 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; at least oe sensor arrailgement to detect the vehicle passing along the path to generate an output; and a display control arrangement to connol the display apparatuses to output images on the display apparatuses to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the output of the at least one sensor arrangement; wherein the system includes an Ethernet network connection between the display apparatuses, and each display apparatus indudes an Ethernet switch to connect over an Ethernet to an Ethernet switch of a neighbouring display apparatus for communication between the display apparatuses, and a power supply to supply power to the Ethernet switch, the Ethernet switch beifig adapted to draw power over the Ethernet from the Ethernet switch of the neighbouring display apparatus if the power supply fails.

[00101 One embodiment provides a method of displaying images to passengers in a vehicle travelling alofig a path, the method comprising detecting the vehicle passing along the path to generate a sensor output; connecting display apparatuses arranged adjacent to aild alofig the path together using a Ethernet network, each display apparatus including an Ethernet switch to connect over the Ethernet to an Ethernet switch of a neighbouring display apparatus for communication between the display apparatuses, and a power supply to supply power to the Ethernet switch: controlling the display apparatuses to output images to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the sensor output; and if the power supp'y fails, drawing power for the Ethernet switch over the Ethernet from the Ethernet switch of the neighbouring disp'ay apparatus.

[0011] 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 sequentially along the path to generate images visible to the passengers, each display apparatus including a sensor arrangement to detect the vehicle passing along the path to generate a sensor output, and a disp'ay controller to control the oLltput image to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the output of the sensor arrangements of the display apparatuses; aild a network connection between the display apparatuses; wherein each display apparatus is adapted to determine synchronized tilmllg for processing to correct for iletwork trallsmlssion delays, and to transmit a sensor output time to the other display apparatuses over the network, and each display controller is adapted to process the sensor output times from at least two sensor arrangements and to use the processes sensor output times to contro' the timing of the output of the image.

One embodiment provides a method of displaying images to passengers in a vehide travefling along a path, the method comprising using a sensor arrangement arranged ill each of a plurality of display apparatuses arranged adjacent to and sequentially along the path to detect the vehicle passing along the path and to generate a sensor output: controlling the output image of each display apparatus to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the output of the sensor arrangements of the display apparatuses; transmitting the sensor output to the other display apparatuses over a network connecting the display apparatuses: determining synchronized timing for processing to correct for network transmission delays for a network connecting the display apparatuses: transmitting a sensor output time to the other display apparatuses over the network: processing the sensor output times from at least two sensor arrangements; and control the timing of the output of the image using the processed sensor output times.

[0012] One embodiment provides a system for displaying images to passengers in a vehicle travelling along a path, the system comprising at least one sensor arrangement to detect the vehicle passing along the path to generate an output; a plurality of display apparatuses arranged adjacent to and along the path, each display apparatus including an image store storing images for disp'ay, and a display controller to select an image in the image store and to control the output of the image on the display apparatuses to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the output of the at least one sensor arrangement: and a data source for transmitting a data feed to each display apparatus: wherein each display controller is adapted to generate an image for output by overlaying a video display region displaying the data feed as text over a portion of the selected image, the display controller of each successive display apparatus arranged along the path being adapted to display the text to move across the portion of the image visible to the passengers.

[0013] One embodiment provides a method of displaying images to passengers in a vehicle travelling along a path, the method comprising detecting the vehide passing ahng the path using at least one sensor arrangement to generate an output; select an image for disp'ay in an image store in each of a p'urality of display apparatuses arranged adjacent to and along the path: controlling the output of the image on the display apparatuses to gellerate an apparently statiollary image visible to the passengers dependeilt upon the output of the at least one sensor arrangement: and transmitting a data feed to each display apparatus; wherein the image is gellerated for output by overlaying a video display region displaying the data feed as text over a portion of the selected image, and each successive display apparatus arranged along the path displays the text to move across the portion of the image visible to the passengers.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[00141 Figure 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a display system of one embodiment of the invention [09151 Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a display apparatus of one embodiment of the invention; [0916] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a display system of another embodiment of the invention; [0917] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a display system of another embodiment of the invention; [0918] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating a display system of another embodiment of the invention; [0019] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating a resilient power arrangement of a display apparatus of a further embodiment of the invention: [0020] Figure 7 is a flow diagram illustrating a process performed by a display apparatus to monitor faults according to one embodiment; [0021] Figure 8 is a flow diagram illustrating a process in a display controller for fault detection according to one embodimenu [0022] Figure 9 is a flow diagram illustrating a process in a display apparatus for faffit monitoring and fault detection according to one embodiment; [0923] Figure 10 is a flow diagram illustrating a process in a display apparatus for automatic ID determination according to one embodiment: [0924] Figure II is a flow diagram illustrating a process in a display apparatus for automatic ID determinatioll accordillg to another embodimeilt; [0025] Figure 12 is a flow diagram illustrating a process in a display apparatus for determining time synchronisation according to one embodiment: [0026] Figures 13a aild 13b are flow diagrams illustrating the process for control of image generation using the sensor output times according to one embodiment; aild [90271 Figure 14 is a diagram of the image generated by a display apparatus according to one embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] In the foHowing detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a paTt 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 be understood that other embodiments maybe utilized and that structural, logical, and electrical changes maybe made without departing from the scope of the inventive subject matterSuch embodiments of the inventive subject matter may be referred to, individually andJor collectively, herein by the term "invention" merely for convenience and without intending to voluntarily limit the scope of this application to any single invention or inventive concept if more than one is in fact disclosed.

[00291 The following description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limited sense, and the scope of the inventive subject matter is defined by the appended claims.

[0030] In the following embodiments, like components are labeled with like reference numerals.

[0931] 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 executaffle instructions stored on computer readable media such as memory or other type of storage devices. Further, described fullctions may correspond to modules, which may be software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof Multiple functions are performed in one or more modules as desired, and the embodiments described are merely examples. The software is executed on a digital signal processor, ASIC, microprocessor, or other type of processor operating on a system, such as a personal computer, server, a router, or other device capable of processing data including network interconnection devices.

[09321 Some embodiments implement the functions in two or more specific interconnected hardware modules or devices with related control and data signals communicated between and through the modules, or as portions of an application-specific integrated circuit. Thus, the exemplary process flow is applicable to software, firmware, and hardware implementations.

[0033] The system and method of embodiments of the invention generate 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 positioning, of delays in timing control signals.

[0034] 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 road, track or rail structure, such as a train, tram, metro, underground transport vehicle, or mono rail.

[0035] The invention provides for the display of images. It is particularly applicable for use in consistent ambient light conditions e.g. low ambient Ught conditions. Although it can he used at night in open locations, unless the brightness of the output of the displays are variable dependeilt upon the ambient light conditions, the time it can be operated is restricted, it is ideally suited for use ill tunnels, where the ambient light is relatively consistent and low and the sides of the twinel provides a convellient mountillg structure. Further, the passengers are not afforded any view out of the windows except for the images from the displays, which do 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 [00361 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 1 and which acts to confine tile 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 I at a level with the windows 7 of the train 6 are display apparatuses 2 for generating output images to he visible to the passengers in the train 6 as they pass the display apparatuses 2. In this embodiment the display apparatuses 2 comprise linear display apparatuses, which each comprise a colLlmn of disphty elements, such as disclosed in US6,169,368, the content of which is hereby incorporated in its entirety by reference. Each row of the column of display elements generates a complete row of a displayed image by sequentially outputting image pixels. The column of display elements has a row dimension that is much less thall the width of the image to be displayed 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 acting together. The benefits of using such columnar disp'ay apparatuses 2 compared to conventional fufi 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 I, they have a lower surface area and are hence less prone to damage such as from stones, and can be manufactured at lower cost.

[0037] The display apparatuses 2 cax be moullted on the side of a tunnel through which the train 6 is passing or at the side of the track and are connected together mid to a control unit 5 over a network such as an Ethernet or serial link.

The control unit 5 can comprise a digital apparatus such as a computer and can act to control the display apparatuses 2 to output the images at the correct time and scaui rate so that an apparently stationary image is visible to the passengers at a correct and stationary position relative to the window 7 of the train 6 and with the correct aspect ratio. The apparently stationary image can be a still 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. Alternatively sequentia' groups of display apparatuses could display sequential frames with each display of a group displaying tile same frame, or some displays may omit to display a frame. The display of the frame needs to he timed to tile 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 front part of the train before it passes the first display apparatus. The sensor arrangement 4 can provide a train speed signal that can he used, in one embodiment by the contro' unit 5 or in another embodiment by the display apparatuses 2 using separate independent disphty controllers to control each display apparatus 2 to output the correct image at the correct time ftat the train 6 passes. Hence, the sensor anangement 4 can provide a initial train speed or timing signal to be used for control. However, the train may change speed after passing the sensor arrailgement 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 is described in co-pending application number GB 1406447.! filed on the same date as this application and having the title "A Display System and Method" (Attorney ref: 0015), the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference. To enable the detection of the train as it passes along the display apparatuses and to provide train speed or timing signals, each display apparatus cax be provided with a sensor arrangement.

[0038] 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 whell it is desired to change the displayed images. Each display apparatus can store a mimber of images and/or video frames or even a comp'ete video, if the timing of the vehicle passing the display apparatus is unchanged and as expected for the configuration of the display apparatuses, the display apparatuses need each oniy store and display one image or video frame. However, if the speed changes the video frame required to be disp'ayed can change and hence the display apparatuses need access to at least a number of video frames. Also, in an alternative embodiment described herein after, if the display apparatuses are include 2D displays, when the vehicle is near stationary, if the disp'ay apparatuses store an entire video, they can each display the entire video to the passengers. Methods and apparatus for compensating for variations in the speed of the vehide are described in co-pending apphcation number GB 1406452.! filed on the same date as this application and having the title "A Disp'ay System and Method" (Attorney ref: 0016), the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

[9039] Figure 2 is a diagram iflustrating a disjilay apparatus 2 of the embodiment iflustrated in figure [9040] Each display apparatus 2 is connected to an Ethernet such that the display apparatuses 2 are logica'ly and/or physically connected in series, with each display apparatus having two Ethernet corniections for coilnection to neighbouring display apparatuses in the series. In the embodiment of figure 1, the first display apparatus is connected to the second display apparatus and the sensor arraxgement 4, and the ast display apparatus is connected to the last but one disphy apparatus and the controller 5. Tn this way, each disp'ay apparatus is ahe to communicate over the Ethernet to any other display apparatus 2 and to the contro' unit 5. Also, each display unit 2 is able to receive sensor outputs from at least two sensor arrangements, such as a prior sensor arrangement and a sensor arrangement associated with the display apparatus to enable a speed or timing determination to be made for the control of the output of the images by each display apparatus.

[0041] The Etherilet connections are made via an Ethernet switch 28, which is controlled by a microprocessor 24. The microprocessor 24 is also connected to a sensor circuit 26, which receives input signals from a sensor arrangement (lot shown) associated with the display apparatus e.g. in the same housing or separately mounted. The sensor arrangements caii comprise aiiy suitable sensors to detect the vehicle passing, such as an optica' switch, a proximity sensor, a magnetic or electromagnetic, or a Doppler radar.

[90421 The microprocessor 24 inciludes a memory 25 including v&atile and non-v5latile memory for storing program code, video or image data and configuration parameters, such as display apparatus identifiers (e.g. Media Access Control (MAC) addresses for each display apparatus) and connection order information (e.g. a unique identifier assigned to each display apparatus and transmitted with any data from cacTi display apparatus).

119043] The microprocessor 24 controls three identica' LED display arrays 21, 22 and 23. In this embodiment three disp'ay arrays are used. Each comprises an identical printed circuit hoard. Three identical display arrays 21, 22 and 23 arranged consecutively enables smaller printed circuit hoards to he used. Each comprises one third of the column of LEDs required to disp'ay the image.

[9044] A power supply Llnit 27 is provided to provide power to the LED display arrays 21, 22, and 23, the microprocessor 24, the sensor circuit 26 and the Ethernet switch 28.

[90451 The display apparatus 2 of this embodiment can comprise hardware resembling a personal computer, which can execute an operating system such as Linux and is capable of independent operation using stored program code in response to sensor signals from sensor arrangements. Also, the display apparatus is capable of rLlnning its own faLilt diagnostic procedLire to check the status of components such as the LEDs and to record fault data and transmit the raw data or processed fault data to the controller computer 62, which can process the fault data and in turn transmit the fault data to the remote controller computer 62. The processing of faults by the display apparatus will be described in more detail herein after with reference to figures 7 to 9.

[00461 Figure 3 illustrates a display system according to another embodiment, in which the 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 is similar to that illustrated in figure 2 except that the LED arrays are replaced with a 2D display e.g. LED, LCD or plasma display. The 2D displays generate a full frame output rather than a partial frame cohinmar output which is repeatedly output to create the pixel rows. The benefit of the use of 2D displays is that each 2D display can display a full video as a sequence of video frame in a conventional manner when the vehicle is static or near static e.g. moving at less than I or 2 mph.

119047] In any of the embodiments described hereinhefore or herein after, a ID such as described with reference to figure 1 or 2D disp'ay such as described with reference to figure 2 could he used.

[904$] Figure 4 illustrates another embodiment, in which display apparatuses 2 are arranged alongside a path of a vehicle and connected serially together and to a controller computer 60. The controller computer 60 provides for fault management of the display apparatuses 2 and for the downloading of new image data for display by each display apparatus 2. It can also provide for timing control of the output of the display apparatuses in an embodiment where the display apparatuses are not able to provide independent timing control.

[0049] The coiltroller computer 60 is connected over the internet 10 to a remote computer 62 and to an information source 61. The remote controller computer 62 enables the remote control of the display apparatuses and the display system as a whole. The control can comprise the changing of the images or videos to he displayed and the timing of when they are to he displayed. Also, the remote controller computer 62 can provide for the management of the system by enabling the remote monitonng and processing of fault data from the display apparatuses.

[0050] The information source computer 61 can provide information for display by the display apparatuses, such as weather, news, transport information or other public information. The information is in the form of data which can be transmitted such as in a stream from the information source computer 61 to the controller computer 60 for transmission over the network connection to the display apparatuses 2. The data can be sent in packets or a stream of continuously updated data for display by the display apparatuses as a live' feed. Each display apparatus receives the data and calculates from the timing of the sensor outputs the display output timing so that each image frame along the sequence of display apparatuses along the path displays a sequential image frame of for example a video and the data received is rendered for each image frame for sequential display apparatuses to overlay over a portion of the image and to create an impression of a moving information source e.g. text across the portion of the image. This form of information display is often referred to as a ticker tape'. AlthoLigh in the embodiment of figure 5 the displays are i D columnar displays that scan out one or a few columns of an image as the passenger passes, in another embodiment, the displays can comprise 2D displays. An example of the image visible to the passenger is shown in figure i4. The text information shown is "TODAY'S WEATHER WILL BE COUDY WITH A CHANCE OF RAIN". This scrolls across the image frame by frame. In the frame shown in figure 14, only the text "TODAY'S WEATHER WILL BE CLOUDY WITH A CHAN" is shown. Tn the next frame the overlaid text would become "ODAYS WEATHER WILL BE CLOUDY \WTH A CHANC", and the following frame "DAY'S WEATHER WILL BE CLOUDY WITH A CHANCE", and so on. The display of this information can he turned on and off by control signals from tile controller computer 60.

[0051] Figure 5 illustrates another embodiment in which the display apparatuses 2 are arranged alongside a path of a vehicle and connected together in a loop or ring and to an ADSL router huh 50. In this way, all of the display apparatuses are coilnecteci to two other display apparatuses, even the first display apparatus 2 (A) and the last display apparatus 2a (H). The last display apparatus 2a in the sequence along the path is connected to the ADSL router 1mb 50 for access to the ifiternet 10. In this embodiment the last display apparatus is configured to act as a controller for the display system since there is no controller computer connected as in the previous embodiment. The controller display apparatus 2a is programmed to operate as the controller. Otherwise, the hardware configuration is the same for all of the display apparatuses. In embodiments, acting as the controller the display apparatus 2a can undertake to perform any of the following control operations: control the timing of the output of the images, download new images or videos to the display apparatuses 2, or receive, aggregate and process fault information from the display apparatuses 2.

[9052] A laptop computer 70 is shown connected over a ocal wireless network e.g. Wi-Fi to the ADSL router huh 50 or connected over the internet 10 to the ADSL router huh 50. The laptop computer 70 can he used for remote or temporary local control of the system and can act as the remote controller computer 52 of the previous embodiment.

[0053] Figure 6 illustrates the Ethernet switch configuration of each display apparatus in more detail according to one embodiment.

[0054] Each display apparatus 2 is connected to adjacent display apparatuses 2 of the sequence along the path. Tt is important for the functioning of the system that communications along the Ethernet link are maintained to ensure accurate timing of the outputs of the display apparatuses. For ease of construction, the Ethernet connection of the display apparatuses 2 is a serial or daisy chain connection. Hence, for signals to pass along the line each Ethernet switch must be functioning. As shown in figure 5, display apparatuses arranged at the end and beginning of the sequence can he connected together to form an Ethernet loop. This enables these disp'ay apparatuses to he connected to two other display apparatuses.

[0055] In order to operate, each Ethernet switch is provided with power from the power supply unit 27 in each display apparatus 2 via a power switch 81 in normal operatioll. The Ethernet switch 26 is has two ports for the two Ethernet connections to Etherilet switches of neighbouring display apparatuses 2.

[90561 The Ethernet standard permits power to be drawn over the Ethernet network. Heilce, the power switch 81 is corniected by a suitable rectifying arrangement to the Ethernet on both sides of the Ethernet switch 26 so as to be able to draw power supplied to the Ethernet connection by the Ethernet switch of each neigbouring display apparatus 2. Although the power switch 811s connected to both sides of the Ethernet switch 26, it need only be connected to one side i.e. to an Ethernet switch of one neighbouring display apparatus.

[90571 If a fault occurs in a display apparatus and the power supply unit 27 fails either completely or particularly siwh that the operation of the Ethernet switch would he compromised, the O\V switch is arranged to detect the power failure or fault and to switch the supply of power to the Ethernet switch 26 to the supply provided over the Ethernet from an Ethernet switch of one or both neighbouring display apparatus. Tn this way, if a display apparatus power supply fails, even if the rest of the functioning of the display apparatus is compromised, the network continuity along the Ethernet link between the display apparatuses is maintained. If a display apparatus fails and is unable to display an image or video frame, this does not have a major impact on the display of the image or video to the passenger. On'y one frame in the sequence seen by the passenger is dropped. The loss of one frame of video is unlikely to he noticed by a passenger. If two or more adjacent display apparatuses fail, the use of two Ethernet connectiolls to the power switch enables the network to continue operating, even if the passenger may start to notice the loss of frames. if two spaced apart display apparatuses fail, the display apparatuses between them and either side of them will maintain the Ethernet continuity by virtue of the use of the two Ethernet connections by the power switch 8 1.

[005$] The process for monitoring and processing faults in the disphuy system according to embodiments will BOW he described with reference to figures 7 to 9.

[9059] Figure 7 is a flow diagram illustrating a fault detection process performed by each display apparatus accordifig to OIIC embodiment. 111 step Si, the nñcroprocessor 24 implements a process to monitor the LEDs and other circuit parameters in the display apparatus. For example, the cunent of each LED could be monitored to enable the detection of a failure or reduced performance of the LEDs.

The monitored parameters are stored in the memory 25 ill step S2 and in step S3, the stored parameters are periodically transmitted to the controller computer 60 or the controller display apparatus 2a of the first and second embodiments respectively.

The process then returns to step Si. Thus, in this embodiment, the display apparatus simply captures operation information which can be used for maintenance purposes.

[90601 Figure 8 is a flow diagram illustrating a fault processing operation performed by the display controfler computer 60 or the controfler display apparatus 2a according to one embodiment.

[9061] In step S4, the periodically transmitted parameters are received and in step S5 they are ana'ysed to detect faults. The analysis can comprise a comparison of certain parameters such as current and voltage to thresholds, a comparison of the level of a parameter over time to detect variations over time, or a detection ofa pattern in one or a combination of parameters. If no fault is detected, in step S6 the process returns to step S4 to await the next uploaded parameters. If a fault is detected a warning can he generated in step S7. The warning can he a visua' or aLidible warning and the warning can he recorded with the fault data in memory for later review.

[90621 Figure 9 illustrates an alternative fault detection process carried out by each display apparatus according to one embodiment. in this embodiment, each display apparatus is able to perform fault self-diagnosis.

[04)63] In step 510, the microprocessor 24 implements a process to monitor the LEDs and other circuit parameters in the display apparatus. For example, the current of each LED could he monitored to enable the detection of a failure or reduced performance of the LEDs. The monitored parameters are stored in the memory 25 in step S I I and in step S I 2, the stored parameters are analysed by the microprocessor 24 to detect faults. The analysis can comprise a comparison of certain parameters such as current and voltage to thresholds, a comparison of the level of a parameter over time to detect variations over time, or a detection of a pattern in one or a combination of parameters. If no fault is detected (step S 13), the stored parameters are periodically transmitted to the controller computer 60 or the controller display apparatus 2a of the first and second embodiments respectively in step S15 and the process returns to step SlO to perform the next periodic monitoring.

[0064] If a fault is detected in step S13, a warning can be generated in step S14. The warning can be a visual or audible warning and the warning can be recorded with the fault data in memory for later review. In step S15, the stored parameters are periodically transmitted to the controller computer 60 or the controfler disp'ay apparatus 2a of the first and second embodiments respectiv&y and the process returns to step SI 0 to perform the next periodic monitoring.

[0065] Embodiments of the invention will now he described in which each display apparatus comprises identical hardware and each is configured to provide the required function by software implemented by the processor and configuration parameters loaded into the display apparatus or learnt by the display apparatus.

[0966] The hardware of the disp'ay apparatuses comprises hardware capable of operating in a similar manner to a personal computer. The proceor executes an operating system such a LinuxTM and accesses program code for execution within the operating system for the processing of parameters.

[0067] In one embodiment, the display apparatuses are each able to automatically configure themselves either on initial setup or thereafter such as when a faulty display apparatus is replaced. The new display apparatus detects the connections over the network and determines the functions it is required to perform according to a predefined process implemented according to stored program code in the memory 25 of the display apparatus 2.

[006$] In one embodiment such as described with reference to figure 5, one display apparatus operates as a controller display apparatus 2a by the execution of controller code. The triggering of a display apparatus to execute the controller code to become the controller display apparatus can be automatic or manual. The automatic determination or triggering can be for example caused by a display apparatus detecting that it is connected to a ADSL router hub 50 and another display apparatus is connected to it over the Ethernet connection such as in the embodiment described with reference to figure 5.

[0069] In another embodiment, each display apparatus can learn its position in the sequence of display apparatuses along the physical path and along the logical network connection so as to correctly control the timing of the output of the image.

[9070] Figure 10 is a flow diagram illustrating a process for the determination of a display apparatus identifier (ID) according to one embodiment.

[9071] When a display apparatus is first connected to a network (step S20), e.g. on initial configuration of a system or to replace a fauhy display apparatus, the microprocessor uses a network connection or connections to detect adjacent disp'ay apparatuses and any controlling computer (step S2 I) in a serial connected display system embodiment. If a controfler computer is detected (step S22), the display apparatus is assigned and ID of I in step S23, since it is the first display apparatus connected in the series after the controller computer. If no controller computer is detected in step S22, in step S24 it is determined whether an adjacent display apparatus is detected. If only one adjacent display apparatus is detected (step S25), it can he assumed that the display apparatus is the next one connected along the series and the ID assigned to it can be determined as the ID of the detected display apparatus plus 1. If two display apparatuses are detected adiacent to the connected display apparatus (step S24), it can be assumed that the display apparatus is being inserted in the series between the two display apparatuses to replace a faulty display apparatus and the display apparatus ID can he assigned as the ID between the TDs of the two detected display apparatuses (step S26).

[04)72] In this way, each display apparatus is assigned a unique identifier, which identifies its logical location along the serial connected display apparatuses.

Thus when the display apparatuses communicate, they can use the IDs to identify the display apparatus from which the communication has beeu sent and each can control the output of the image in dependeuce upon their ID to provide the correct sequence of images or video frames along the sequence of display apparatuses.

[0073] Figure 11 is a flow diagram illustrating another embodiment for the control of the display apparatuses.

[0074] In step S30 the media access control (MAC) address of each connected display apparatus in the network is detected together with the order in which they are connected in the network. The order in which display apparatuses are connected can be determined for some network protocols such as Ethernet. The detected MAC addresses and determined connection order can be used to assign IDs in order of connection (step S3 1) and a map of MAC addresses and display apparatus IDs can he generated (step S32). Tn an alternative embodiment, the MAC addresses can simply he ordered as a list ordered according to the connection order of the display apparatuses on the network.

[04)75] Each display apparatus can generate the map or list and hence it is not necessary to share it. Alternatively, a controller display apparatus or a controller computer can perform the method illustrated in figure I I and in step S33, the determined map or list can he transmitted to all of the display apparatuses.

[0076] The mall or list can he used by each display apparatus to identify the display apparatus from which a communication has been sent and to control the output of an image to provide the correct sequence of images or video frames along the sequence of display apparatuses.

[0077] In the embodiments of figures 10 and 11, the logical location of the display apparatuses can be determined. The relative physical location can also be determined using stored information on the distance between each display apparatus or even tile physical location of each display apparatus in a sequence. The identification of a disp'ay apparatuses location in the logica' sequence allows the physical location to he determined by comparison with the list of physical locations.

[007$] In embodiments where the network is looked such as described with reference to the embodiment of figure 5, either one display apparatus must he assigned or configured as a controller display apparatus hence defining it's logical and physical location as 1, or the logical location of one of the display apparatuses must be manually defined e.g. display apparatus in logical location 1. This can then act as a refereilce from which the map or list can be defined. This is required since the network is not a serial connection of display apparatuses but rather a looped or ring connection. Hence, the detection of the display apparatuses will result in a cyclic list. A start and end display apparatus are not defined in the cyclic list. A reference must be defined in the cyclic list to enable it to be redefined as a linear list.

[09791 A method for ensuring accurate timing of the control of the display apparatuses according to one embodiment will now be described with reference to figures 12, 13a and 13h.

[0980] Figure 12 is a flow diagram illustrating a process for the determination of an offset time relative to a master time to correct for transmission delays along the network for a display apparatus.

[0981] In step S40 a sync signal is received by a disp'ay apparatus from a master with the time of transmission. The master can comprise a controfler display apparatus 2a or a controfler computer 60 according to the embodiments described herein above with reference to figures 4 and 5. The master sets the master time for the system to which all display apparatuses must synchronise their times (clocks).

[0982] In step S4 I the time of reception of the sync signal is detected and in step S42 a response is trallsmltted to the master with a known response time. A signal is then received from the master with the time of reception by the master of the respoilse. An offset time cax then be determined for the display apparatus giviiig the time difference between the time or clock of the display apparatus and the time of the master. The offset is cakulated from the sync signal time of transmission and reception and the response signal time of transmission and reception in step S44.

The calculated offset is then used to correct the clock timing for the display apparatus (step S45).

[0083] In one embodiment, the network comprises an Ethernet and the process of determining the corrected time for each display apparatus uses the Precision Time Protocol.

[0084] The use of the corrected timing for the display apparatuses in the control of the output of the images will now be described with reference to the flow diagrams of figures 13a and 13b.

[0085] Figure 13a is a flow diagram illustrating the process by a display apparatus to provide sensor outputs. In step S50 a display apparatus receives a sensor output indicating that a vehicle has lust passed a sensor arrangement associated with the display apparatus i.e. integrated in the display apparatus or sited nearby. The time at which the sensor output is determined using the corrected clock time synchronized with the master. The determined sensor output time is then transmitted over the network together with an identifier for the display apparatus over the network. The identifier can comprise any unique identifier for the disphuy apparatus such as an ID assigned to the display apparatus or a MAC address. The process repeats whenever a disp'ay apparatLus receives an output from a sensor arrangement.

[04)86] This this process causes each display apparatus to olutpLut a sensor signa' or output over the network to the other display apparatuses to indicate the time that the vehicle passed the display apparatus, with the ID of the display apparatus. This can he used by the display apparatuses to calculate a speed of the vehide and/or timing signals and to control the output of the images or video frames accordingly, as will now be described with reference to figure 13b.

[0087] Each display apparatus received the sensor output time and display apparatus ID over the network from any other display apparatus axd also from its own sensor circuit in step S52. The process waits to receive sensor output times from two adjacent sensor arrangements (step S53) and then determines if the sensor output times are the first pair of times received (step S54). Tf so, the image output timing and scan rate is determined in step S55 based on the time difference of the sensor output times (which are also indicative of the speed of the vehicle). The generation of the image is controlled using the determined trigger time and scan rate in step S56. If the sensor output times are not the first pair (step S54), it is determined whether the time difference has changed compared to the previously determined time difference (step S57). If the time difference has not changed, the generation of the image is controlled ushig the previously determined trigger time and scan rate in step S56. If the time difference has changed, it is determined whether the difference has changed more than a threshold in step S58. The threshold will depend upon the characteristics of the vehicle i.e. the ability of the vehicle to accelerate or deaccelerate and the pattern of change. The purpose of the threshold is to act as a filter to smooth out changes in the calculated time difference which correlate to jittery speed changes which will cause image position litter visible to the passenger. If the difference is greater than a threshoki, the change is ignored and the generation of the image is controlled using the previously determined trigger time and scan rate in step S56. If the difference is less than the threshold (step S58), the image output timing and scan rate is determined in step S55 based on the time difference of the sensor output times (which are a'so indicative of the speed of the vehide). The generation of the image is then controlled using the determined trigger time and scan rate in step S56.

[008$] In addition to using the sensor output times for adjacent display apparatuses, the system can use sensor output times for previously passed display apparatuses to assist with determination of time changes.

[0989] The foflowing is a description of some generaUzed embodiments.

Ally embodiment ca be used ill combination with any other embodimeilt.

[09901 One embodiment provides a system for displaying images to passengers in a vehicle travelling alofig a path, the system comprising a plurality of display apparatuses arranged adjacent to and along the path to generate images visible to the passengers; at least one sensor arrangement to detect the vehicle passing along the path to generate an outpLlt; and a display control arrangement to contro' the display apparatuses to outpLlt images on the display apparatuses to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the output of the at least one sensor arrangement; wherein each display apparatus is adapted to detect faults related to the output of the images, to store parameters indicative of the detected faults, and to transmit the parameters to a remote device for consolidation of the parameters.

[009i] in one embodiment, the display apparatuses are connected together by a network, and are adapted to detect connection faults and to store parameters indicative of the detected connections faults.

[90921 in one embodiment, the display apparatuses are adapted to be responsive to a request from the remote device to transmit the parameters.

[00931 One 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 to generate an output; and controlling a plurality of display apparatuses arranged adjacent to and along the path to output images on the display apparatuses to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the output; wherein each display apparatus detects faults related to the output of the images, stores parameters indicative of the detected faults, and transmits the parameters to a remote device for consolidation of the parameters.

[0094] in one embodiment, the disphuy apparatuses are connected together by a network, detect connection faults, and store parameters indicative of the detected connections faults.

[0095] in one embodiment, the disphuy apparatuses are responsive to a request from the remote device to transmit the parameters.

[90961 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 in a sequence adiacent to and along the path to generate images visible to the passengers, and connected together by a network; at least one sensor arrangement to detect the vehicle passing along the path and to generate an output: and a display control arrangement to control tile display apparatuses to output images on the display apparatuses to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the output of the at least one sensor arrangement, and to automatically identify a position in the sequence for each said display apparatus connected to the network and to control each display apparatus using a respective said identified position.

[0097] in one embodiment, the display control arrailgement comprises a display controller in each display apparatus to automatically identify the position in the sequence of the display apparatus, and to control the output of images using the identified position.

[90981 In one embodiment, the display apparatuses are connected in series in the network, and the display control arrangement is adapted to identify the position by detecting other display apparatuses connected adacent1y in the network.

[90991 In one embodiment, the network comprises an Ethernet.

1190109] In one embodiment, each display apparatus has a unique network identifier, and the display control arrangement is adapted to use the unique network identifiers to identify the positions, and to store a map of the unique network identifiers and the positions.

1190101] In one embodiment, the disp'ay control arrangement is arranged to transmit the map of the unique network identifiers and the positions over the network to at least one di splay apparatus.

[90102] One embodiment provides a method of displaying images to passengers in a vehicle travelling along a path, the method comprising connecting a plurality of disp'ay apparatuses arranged as a sequence adjacent to and along the path by a network; detecting the vehicle passing along the path using at least one sensor arrangement and generating an output; controlling the display apparatuses to output images on the display apparatuses to generate an apparently statiollary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the output of the at least one sensor arrangement: and automatically identifying a position in the sequence fbr each said display apparatus connected to the network; wherein each disphuy apparatus is controfled using a respective said identified position.

[04)103] In one embodiment, each display apparatus automatically identifies the position in tile sequence of the display apparatus, and controls the output of images using the identified position.

[00104] In one embodiment, the display apparatuses are connected in series in the network, and the identified position is detected by detecting other display apparatuses conilected adjacently in the network.

[901051 In one embodiment, the network comprises an Ethernet.

[00106] In one embodiment, each display apparatus has a ullique network identifier, the unique network identifiers are used to identify the positions, and a map of the unique network identifiers and the positions is stored.

[001071 In one embodiment, the map of the unique network identifiers and positions is transmitted over the network to at least one display apparatus.

[901081 One embodiment provides a system for displaying images to passengers in a vehicle travelling along a path, the system comprising at least one sensor arrangement to detect the vehicle passing along the path to generate an output; and a plurality of disp'ay apparatuses arranged adjacent to and along the path to generate images visible to the passengers: each display apparatus including a display controller to control the output of images to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the output of the at least one sensor arrangement: wherein each display apparatus comprises identically configured hardware including a programmable processor and program memory storing code for execution by the processor, each display apparatus being programmed to execute different functions.

[00109] In one embodiment, each display apparatus is programmed to execute functions dependent upon their location along the path.

[00110] In one embodiment, a said display apparatus is programmed to act as a master controller for controlling functions of the other display apparatuses.

[04)111] In one embodiment, the master controller includes a connection to a remote computer for remote control of the system.

[09112] In one embodiment, said processor in a display apparatus is programmed to automatically identify a position for the display apparatus in a sequence of display apparatuses arranged adjacent to and along the path, each said display apparatus being connected to the network, and programmed to control the generated images using a respective said identified position.

[091131 One embodiment provides a method displaying images to passengers in a vehicle travelling along a path, the method comprising detecting the vehicle passing along the path to generate an output; and controlling each of a plurality of display apparatuses arraxged adjacent to and along the path to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the output of the at least one sensor arrangement: the controlling by each display apparatus being carried out by identically configured hardware including a programmable processor and program memory storing code for execution by the processor, the code for each display apparatus processor executing different functions.

[09114] In one embodiment, the code for each disp'ay apparatus processor controh the generation of the apparently stationary image differently dependent upon the of the display apparatus location along the path.

[09115] In one embodiment, a said display apparatus processor executes code to act as a master controller for controlling functions of the other display apparatuses.

[09116] In one embodiment, said processor in a display apparatus executes code to automatically identify a position for the display apparatus in a sequence of display apparatuses arranged adjacent to and along the path, each said display apparatus being connected to the network, and to control the generated images using a respective said identified position.

[091171 One embodiment provides a system for displaying images to passengers in a vehicle travelling alofig a path, the system comprising a plurality of display apparatuses arranged adjacent to and along the path to generate images visible to the passengers; at least one sensor arrangement to detect the vehicle passing along the path to generate an outpLlt; and a display control arrangement to contro' the display apparatuses to outpLlt images on the display apparatuses to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the output of the at least one sensor arrangement; wherein the system includes an Ethernet network connection between the display apparatuses, and each display apparatus includes an Ethernet switch to connect over an Ethernet to an Ethernet switch of a neighbouring display apparatus for communication between the display apparatuses, and a power supply to supply power to the Ethernet switch, the Ethernet switch being adapted to draw power over the Ethernet from the Ethernet switch of the neighbouring display apparatus if the power supply fails.

[001181 One embodiment includes a power switch to switch a power connection for the Ethernet switch from the power supply to the Ethernet to thaw power over the Ethernet from the Ethernet switch of the neighbouring display apparatus if the power supply fails.

[091191 In one embodiment, the Ethernet switch of at least one display apparatus is adapted to connect to two Ethernet switches of two neighbouring display apparatuses, the Ethernet switch being adapted to draw power over the Ethernet from either or both of the Ethernet switches of the neighbouring display apparatuses if the powei supply fails.

[09129] In one embodiment, the Ethernet network connects the display apparatuses in a network ring, and the Ethernet switch of each display apparatus is adapted to connect to two Ethernet switches of two neighbouring display apparatuses.

[09121] One 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 to generate a sensor output; connecting display apparatuses arranged adjacent to and along the path together using an Ethernet network, each display apparatus including an Ethernet switch to connect over the Ethernet to an Ethernet switch of a neighbouring display apparatus for communication between the display apparatuses, and a power supply to supp'y power to the Ethernet switch: controlling the disp'ay apparatuses to output images to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the sensor output; and if the power supp'y fails, drawing power for the Ethernet switch over the Ethernet from the Ethernet switch of the neighbouring disp'ay apparatus.

[00122] One embodiment includes switching power for the Ethernet switch from the power supply to the Ethernet to draw power over the Ethernet from the Ethernet switch of the neighbourillg display apparatus if the power supply fails.

[091231 In one embodiment, the Ethernet switch of at least one display apparatus connects to two Ethernet switches of two neighbouring display apparatuses and draws power over the Ethernet from either or both of the Ethernet switches of the neighbouring display apparatuses if the power supply fails.

[091241 In one embodiment, the Ethernet network connects the display apparatuses in a network ring, and the Ethernet switch of each display apparatus connects to two Ethernet switches of two neighbouring display apparatuses.

[09125] 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 sequentially along the path to generate images visible to the passengers, each display apparatus including a sensor arrangement to detect the vehicle passing along the path to generate a sensor output, and a display controller to control the oLltput image to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the output of the sensor arrangements of the display apparatuses; and a network connection between the display apparatuses; wherein each display apparatus is adapted to determine synchronized timing for processing to correct for network transmission delays, and to transmit a sensor output time to the other display apparatuses over the network, and each display controller is adapted to process the sensor output times from at least two sensor arrangements and to use the processes sensor output times to control the timing of the output of the image.

[04)126] In one embodiment, the disphuy apparatuses are arranged adjacent to and along the path at known relative locations, each display apparatus is adapted to transmit identification information for the display apparatus with the sensor output time, and to process the sensor output times from at least two sensor arrangements dependent upon the transmitted identification information and the known relative location for the determination of the timing of the output of the image.

[00127] In one embodiment, the network comprises an Ethernet, ailci the display apparatuses are adapted to use Precision Time Protocol (FTP) to determine synchronized tilmllg for processing.

[091281 In one embodiment, the display apparatuses are connected sequentially on the network, the sequence corresponding to the sequential arrangement of the display apparatuses adjacent to and along the path.

[001291 In one embodiment, the display controller is adapted to use the sensors output times from two sequentially adiacent display apparatuses to determine the timing of the output of the image.

[091301 In one embodiment, each display controller is adapted to determine the rate or timing of sensor outputs as the vehicle passes each sensor arrangement, and to determine the timing of the output of the image each time a sensor output is received from a sensor arrangement of a display apparatus as the vehicle passes the display apparatus, wherein each display controller is adapted to constrain the determination of the timing of the output of the image within an expected timing dependent upon a known speed capability of the vehicle to smooth out changes in the rate of output of the images by the display controflers.

[09131] In one embodiment, each display apparatus is adapted to determine the synchronized timing by transmitting synchronization signals over the network, and receiving responses.

[00132] One embodiment provides a method of displaying images to passengers in a vehicle travelling along a path, the method comprising using a sensor anangement arranged in each of a plurality of display apparatuses arranged adjacent to and sequentially along the path to detect the vehicle passing along the path and to generate a sensor outpLlt; controlling the output image of each display apparatus to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the oLItpLIt of the sensor arrangements of the display apparatuses: transmitting the sensor output to the other display apparatuses over a network connecting tile display apparatuses: determining synchronized timing for processing to correct for network transmission delays for a network connecting the display apparatuses; transmitting a sensor output time to the other display apparatuses over the network; processing the sensor output times from at least two sensor alTangements; aild control the tlmlllg of the output of the image using the processed sensor output times.

[00133] in one embodiment, the display apparatuses are arranged adjacent to and along the path at known relative locations, each display apparatus transmits identification information for the display apparatus with the sensor output time, and the sensor output times from at least two sensor arrangements are processed dependent upon the transmitted identification information and the known relative location for the determination of the timing of the output of the image.

[09134] In one embodiment, the network comprises an Ethernet, and the display apparatuses use Precision Time Protocol (PTP) to determine synchronized timing for processing.

[09135] In one embodiment, the disphuy apparatuses are connected sequentially on the network, the sequence corresponding to the sequential arrangement of the display apparatuses adjacent to and athng the path.

[00136] In one embodiment, the sensors output times from two sequentially adjacent display apparatuses are Lised to determine the timing of the output of the image.

[04)137] In one embodiment, the rate or timing of sensor outputs is determined as the vehicle passes each sensor arrangement, the timing of the output of the image is determined each time a sensor output is received from a sensor arrangement of a display apparatus as the vehicle passes the display apparatus, and the determination of the timing of the output of the image is constrained within an expected timing dependent upon a known speed capability of the vehicle to smooth out changes in the rate of output of the images by the display controllers.

[00138] In one embodiment, each display apparatus determines the synchronized timing by transmitting synchronization signals over tile network, and receiving responses.

[09139] One embodiment provides a system for displaying images to passengers in a vehicle travelling alofig a path, the system comprising at least one sensor arrangement to detect the vehicle passing along the path to generate an output; a plurality of display apparatuses ananged adjacent to aild along the path, each display apparatus including an image store storing images for display, and a display controller to select an image in the image store and to control the output of the image on the display apparatuses to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the output of the at least one sensor arrangement: and a data source for transmitting a data feed to each display apparatus: wherein each display controller is adapted to generate an image for output by overlaying a video display region displaying the data feed as text over a portion of the selected image, the display controller of each successive display apparatus arranged along the path being adapted to display the text to move across the portion of the image visible to the passengers.

[09149] In one embodiment, the image store stores video frames, and the display controllers are each adapted to select and output a video frame to generate a video image visible to the passengers with the text moving across the portion of the video image.

[09141] One embodiment provides a method of displaying images to passengers in a vehicle travelling along a path, the method comprising detecting the vehide passing a'ong the path using at least one sensor arrangement to generate an output; select an image for display in an image store in each of a plurality of display apparatuses arranged adjacent to and along the path; controlling the output of the image Oil the display apparatuses to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the output of the at least one sensor arrangement; and transmitting a data feed to each display apparatus; wherein the image is generated for output by overlaying a video display region disp'aying the data feed as text over a portion of the selected image, and each successive display apparatus arranged along the path displays the text to move across the portion of the image visible to the passengers.

[00142] In one embodiment, the image store stores video frames, and the display apparatuses each select and output a video frame to generate a video image visible to the passengers with the text moving across the portion of the video image.

[00143] Ic will be readily ullderstood 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 be made withorn departing from the principles and scope of the inventive subject matter as expressed in the subloined 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; at least one sensor arrangement to detect the vehicle passing along the path to generate an output; and a display control arrangement to control the display apparatuses to output images on the display apparatuses to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the output of the at least one sensor arrangement; wherein each display apparatus is adapted to detect faults related to the output of the images, to store parameters indicative of the detected faults, and to transmit the parameters to a remote device for consolidation of the parameters.
A system according to claim 1, wherein the display apparatuses are connected together by a network, and are adapted to detect connection faults and to store parameters indicative of the detected connections faults.
3. A system according to claim i or claim 2, wherein the display apparatuses are adapted to he responsive to a request from the remote device to transmit the parameters.
4. A method of displaying images to passengers in a vehide travelling along a path, the method comprising: detecting the vehicle passing along the path to generate an output: and controlling a plurality of display apparatuses arranged adjacent to and along the path to output images on the display apparatuses to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the output; wherein each display apparatus detects faLilts related to the output of the images, stores parameters indicative of the detected faults, and transmits the parameters to a remote device for consolidation of tile parameters.
5. A method according to claim 4, wherein the display apparatuses are connected together by a network, detect connection faults, and store parameters indicative of the detected connections faults.
6. A method according to claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the display apparatuses are responsive to a request from the remote device to transmit the parameters.
7. A system for displaying images to passengers in a vehicle travelling along a path, the system comprising: a plurality of display apparatuses arranged in a sequence adjacent to and along the path to generate images visible to the passengers, and connected together by a network; at least one sensor arrangement to detect the vehicle passing along the path and to generate an output; and a display control arrangement to control the display apparatuses to output images on the display apparatuses to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the output of the at least one sensor arrangement, and to automatically identify a position in the sequence for each said display apparatus connected to the network and to contro' each display apparatus using a respective said identified position.
8. A system according to claim 7, wherein the display control arrangement comprises a display controller in each display apparatus to automatically identify the position in the sequence of the display apparatus, and to control the output of images using the identified position.
9. A system according to claim 7 or claim 8, wherein the display apparatuses are connected in series in the network, and the display contro' arrangement is adapted to identify the position by detecting other display apparatuses connected adjacently in the network.
10. A system according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the iletworic comprises an Etherilet.
11. A system according to any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein each display apparatus has a unique network identifier, and the display control arrangement is adapted to use the unique iletwork identifiers to identify the positiolls, mid to store a map of the irnique network identifiers and the positions.
12. A system according to claim 11, wherein the display control arrangement is arranged to transmit the map of the unipie network identifiers and the positions over the network to at least one display apparatus.
13-A method of displaying images to passengers in a vehide travelling along a path, tile method comprising: connecting a pluraUty of display apparatuses arranged as a sequence adjacent to and along the path by a network; detecting the vehicle passing along the path using at least one sensor arrangement and generating an output; controlling the display apparatuses to output images on the display apparatuses to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the output of the at least one sensor arrangement: and automatically identifying a position in the sequence for each said display apparatus connected to the network; wherein each display apparatus is controlled using a respective said identified position.
14. A method according to claim 13, wherein each display apparatus automatica'ly identifies the position in the sequence of the disp'ay apparatus, and controh the output of images using the identified position.
15. A method according to claim 13 or claim 14, wherein the display apparatuses are connected in series in the network, and the identified position is detected by detecting other display apparatuses connected adjacently in the network.
16. A method according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the network comprises an Ethernet.
17. A method according to any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein each display apparatus has a unique network identifier, the unique network identifiers are used to identify the positions, and a map of the unique network identifiers and the positions is stored.
18. A method according to claim 17, wherein the map of the unique network identifiers and positions is transmitted over the network to at least one display apparatus.
19. A system for displaying images to passengers in a vehicle travelling along a path, the system comprising: at least one sensor arrangement to detect the vehicle passing along the path to generate an output: and 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 to control the output of images to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the output of the at least one sensor arrangement; wherein each display apparatus comprises identically configured hardware including a programmable processor and program memory storing code for execution by the processor, each display apparatus being programmed to execute different functions.
20. A system according to claim 19, wherein each display apparatus is programmed to execute functions dependent upon their location along the path.
21. A system according to claim 19 or 20, wherein a said display apparatus is programmed to act as a master controller for controlling functions of the other display apparatuses.
22. A system according to claim 21, wherein the master control'er includes a connection to a remote computer for remote control of the system.
23. A system according to any one of claims 19 to 22, wherein said processor in a display apparatus is programmed to automaticafly identify a position for the display apparatus in a sequence of disphy apparatuses arranged adjacent to and along the path, each said display apparatus being connected to the network, and programmed to control the generated images Lising a respective said identified position.
24. A method displaying images to passengers in a vehicle travelling along a path, the method comprising: detecting the vehicle passing along the path to generate an oLItpllt: and controlling each of a plurality of disp'ay apparatuses arranged adjacent to and along the path to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the output of the at least one sensor arrangement; the controlling by each disphy apparatus being carried orn by identically configured hardware includillg a programmable processor aild program memory storifig code for execution by the processor, the code for each display apparatus processor executing different functions.
25. A method according to claim 24, wherein tile code tbr each display apparatus wes controls the generation of the apparently stationary image clifferefitly depeildent upon the of the display apparatus location along the path.
26. A method according to claim 24 or claim 25, wherein a said display apparatus processor executes code to act as a master controller for controlling functions of the other display apparatuses.
27. A method according to any one of claims 24 to 26, wherein said processor in a display apparatus executes code to automatically identify a position for the display apparatus in a sequence of disp'ay apparatuses arranged adjacent to and a'ong the path, each said disp'ay apparatus being connected to the network, and to control the generated images using a respective said identified position.
28. 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; at least one sensor arrangement to detect the vehicle passing along the path to generate an output: and a display control arrangement to control the display apparatuses to output images on the display apparatuses to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the output of the at least one sensor arrangement; wherein the system includes an Ethernet network corniection between the display apparatuses, and each display apparatus includes an Ethernet switch to connect over an Etherilet to an Ethernet switch of a neighbouring display apparatus for communication between the display apparatuses, and a power supply to supply power to the Ethernet switch, the Ethernet switch being adapted to draw power over the Ethernet from the Ethernet switch of the neighbouring display apparatus if the power supply fails.
29. A system according to claim 28, including a power switch to switch a power connection for the Ethernet switch from the power supply to the Ethernet to draw power over the Ethernet from the Ethernet switch of the neighbouring display apparatus if the power supply fails.
30. A system according to claim 28 or claim 29, wherein the Ethernet switch of at least one display apparatus is adapted to connect to two Ethernet switches of two neighbouring display apparatuses, the Ethernet switch being adapted to draw power over the Ethernet from either or both of the Ethernet switches of the neighbouring display apparatuses if the power supply fails.
31. A system according to claim 30, wherein the Ethernet network connects the display apparatuses in a network ring, and the Ethernet switch of each disp'ay apparatus is adapted to connect to two Ethernet switches of two neighbouring display apparatuses.
32. A method of displaying images to passengers in a vehide travelling along a path, the method comprising: detecting the vehicle passing along the path to generate a sensor output; connecting display apparatuses arranged adjacent to and along the path together using an Ethernet network, each display apparatus including an Ethernet switch to connect over the Ethernet to an Ethernet switch of a neighbouring display apparatus for communication between the display apparatuses, and a power supply to supply power to the Ethernet switch: controlling the display apparatuses to output images to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the sensor output; and if the power supply fails, drawing power for the Ethernet switch over the Ethernet from the Ethernet switch of the neiglihoLiring display apparatus.
33. A method according to claim 32, including switching power for the Ethernet switch from the power supply to the Ethernet to draw power over the Ethernet from the Ethernet switch of the neighbouring display apparatus if the power supply fails.
34. A method according to claim 32 or claim 33, wherein the Ethernet switch of at least one display apparatus connects to two Ethernet switches of two neighbouring display apparatuses and thaws power over the Ethernet from either or both of the Ethernet switches of the neighbouring display apparatuses if the power supply fails.
35. A method according to claim 34, wherein the Ethernet network connects the display apparatuses in a network ring, and the Ethernet switch of each disp'ay apparatus connects to two Ethernet switches of two neighbouring disp'ay apparatuses.
36. 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 sequentially along the path to generate images visible to the passengers, each display apparatus including a sensor arrangement to detect the vehicle passing along the path to generate a sensor output, and a display controller to control the output image to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the output of the sensor arrangements of the display apparatuses; and a network connection between the display apparatuses; wherein each display apparatus is adapted to determine synchronized timing for processing to correct for network transmission delays, and to transmit a sensor output time to the other display apparatuses over the network, and each disp'ay controfler is adapted to process the sensor output times from at frast two sensor arrangements and to use the processes sensor oLItpLIt times to contro' the timing of the output of the image.
37. A system according to claim 36, wherein the display apparatuses are arranged adjacent to and along the path at known relative locations, each display apparatus is adapted to transmit identification information for the display apparatus with the sensor output time, and to process the sensor output times from at least two sensor arrangements dependent upon the transmitted identification information and the known relative location for the control of the timing of the output of the image.
38. A system according to claim 36 or claim 37, wherein the network comprises an Ethernet, and the display apparatuses are adapted to use Precision Time Protocol (PTP) to determine the synchronized timing for processing.
39. A system according to any one of claims 36 to 38, wherein the display apparatuses are connected sequentially on the network, the sequence corresponding to the sequential arrangement of the display apparatuses adjacent to and along the path.
40. A system according to any one of claims 36 to 39, wherein the display controfler is adapted to use the sensors output times from two sequentially adjacent display apparatuses to control the timing of the output of the image.
41. A system according to any one of claims 36 to 40, wherein each display controller is adapted to determine the rate or timing of sensor outputs as the vehicle passes each sensor arrangement, and to control the timing of the output of the image each time a sensor output is received from a sensor arrangement of a display apparatus as the vehicle passes the display apparatus, wherein each display controfler is adapted to constrain the control of the timing of the output of the image within an expected timing dependent upon a known speed capability of the vehicle to smooth out changes in the rate of output of the images by the display controllers.
42. A system according to any one of claims 36 to 41, wherein each display apparatus is adapted to determine the synchronized timing by transmitting synchronization signals over the network, and receiving responses.
43. A method of displaying images to passengers in a vehicle travelling along a path, the method comprising: using a sensor arrangement arranged in each of a plurality of display apparatuses arranged adjacent to and sequentially along the path to detect the vehicle passing along the path and to generate a sensor output; controlling the output image of each display apparatus to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the output of the sensor arrangements of the display apparatuses; determining synchronized timing for processing to correct for network transmission d&ays for a network connecting the display apparatuses: transmitting a sensor output time to the other display apparatuses over the network; processing the sensor output times from at least two sensor arrangements; and control the timing of the output of the image using the processed sensor output times.
44. A method according to claim 43, wherein the display apparatuses are arranged adjacent to and along the path at known relative locations, each display apparatus transmits identification information for the display apparatus with the sensor output time, and the sensor output times from at least two sensor arrangements are processed dependent upon the transmitted identification information and the known relative location for the determination of the timing of the oLltput of the image.
45. A method according to claim 43 or claim 44, wherein the network comprises an Ethernet, and the display apparatuses use Precision Time Protocol (PTP) to determine synchronized timing for processing.
46. A method according to any one of claims 43 to 45, wherein the display apparatuses are coilnected sequentially on the network, the sequence correspondillg to the sequential arrangement of the display apparatuses adiacent to and along the path.
47. A method according to any one of claims 43 to 46, wherein the sensors output times from two sequentially adiacent display apparatuses are used to determine the timing of the output of the image.
48. A method according to any one of claims 43 to 47, wherein the rate or timing of sensor outputs is determined as the vehicle passes each sensor arrangement, the timing of the output of the image is determined each time a sensor output time is received from a sensor arrangement of a display apparatus as the vehide passes the display apparatus, and the determination of the timing of the output of the image is constrained within an expected timing dependent upon a known speed capability of the vehicle to smooth out changes in the rate of output of the images by the display controllers.
49. A method according to any one of claims 43 to 48, wherein each display apparatus determines the synchronized timing by transmitting syllchrollizatioll signals over the network, and receiving responses.
50. A system for displaying images to passengers in a vehicle travelling along a path, the system comprising: at least one sensor arrangement to detect the vehicle passing along the path to generate an output: a plurality of display apparatuses arranged adjacent to and along the path, each display apparatus including an image store storing images for display, and a display controller to select an image in the image store and to control the output of the image on the display apparatuses to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the output of the at least one sensor arrangement; and a data source for transmitting a data feed to each display apparatus: wherein each display controller is adapted to generate an image for output by overlaying a video display region displaying the data feed as text over a portion of the selected image, the display controller of each successive display apparatus arranged along the path being adapted to display the text to move across the portion of the image visible to the passengers.
SI -A system according to claim 50, wherein the image store stores video frames, and the disp'ay controllers are each adapted to select and output a video frame to generate a video image visible to the passengers with the text moving across the portion of the video image.
52. A method of displaying images to passengers in a vehide travelling along a path, the method comprising: detecting the vehicle passing along the path using at least one sensor arrangement to generate an output; select an image for display in an image store in each of a plurality of display apparatuses arranged adjacent to and along the path; controlling the output of the image on the disp'ay apparatuses to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers dependent upon the output of the at least one sensor arrangement: and transmitting a data feed to each disp'ay apparatus: wherein the image is generated thr output by overlaying a video display region displaying the data feed as text over a portion of the selected image, and each successive display apparatus arranged along the path displays the text to move across the portion of the image visible to the passengers.
53. A method according to claim 52, wherein the image store stores video frames, and the display apparatuses each select and output a video frame to generate a video image visible to the passengers with the text moving across the portion of the video image.
54. A system for configuring display apparatuses for displaying images to passengers in a vehicle travelling along a path, the system comprising: a network connector thr connection to a network, the network connecting in series a plurality of disp'ay apparatuses arranged adjacent to and along the path to generate an apparently stationary image visible to the passengers: and a display control arrangement to adapted to detect a unique network identifier of each display apparatus and the position in the series of each disp'ay apparatus, to generate a list of the unique network identifiers and the positions in the series of the display apparatuses, and to transmit the fist of the unique network identifiers and the positions over the network to said disp'ay apparatuses.
55. A system according to claim 54, wherein the network comprises an Ethernet.