CN1998037A - Electronically interlocking graphic panels constructed of modular interconnected sections - Google Patents

Abstract

A modular display panel is constructed from a segmented symmetric graphics panel (100) having display pixels. The panels interlock in four directions to allow for the formation of larger electronic graphic panels. The preferred shape of the panel is a square defining a perimeter having an edge surface (108). Each of these edge surfaces includes an electrical connection (112) thereon. The frame assembly forms the exterior of the panel, allowing signals and power to be provided to the cells.

Description

Electronically interlocking graphic panels constructed of modular interconnected sections

background

Electronics allow the display to change at will and update continuously. Electronic graphic panels can be used indoors and outdoors, underwater and in space to display desired information.

But disadvantages of these graphics panels include high cost of custom graphics panels, low flexibility, limited software capabilities, and high installation costs. It has been estimated that there are 50,000 or more different model variations of electronic graphics panels.

overview

This application describes a novel electronic graphic panel consisting of interlocking modules that can be interlocked together to form a graphic panel of any desired size.

One aspect describes a light emitting diode (LED) based modular graphic panel consisting of interlocking modules that can be connected into any of a number of different configurations. A computer can be used to control the display on the graphics panel. In one embodiment, the graphic panel is constructed from a frame assembly that may include electronics therein that may include memory to store information to form a static display or other application of an electronic sign.

Another feature of the system lies in the way the modular blocks are interconnected, which prevents the connection of different modular blocks upside down.

Description of drawings

Figure 1 shows a top view of the basic modular blocks of the electronic graphics panel of the present device.

Figure 2 shows how many modular blocks can be interconnected to expand the size of the unit and how the units can be interconnected in a wedging fashion only.

Figure 3 shows an exploded view of the frame section.

Figure 4 shows an exploded view of the layers making up the modular block.

Figure 5 shows a detailed view of the bottom layer of a modular device.

Figures 6A and 6B show information about the signal and power contacts used.

Figure 7 shows a block diagram of module communication.

Figure 8 shows a flow diagram of the identification and programming module.

Figure 9 shows the communication flow to and from each modular device including the tri-state buffer.

Figures 10 and 11 show how signals may and may not be properly sent between different devices.

Figures 11a-11c show views of different kinds of frame attachments.

Figure 12 shows a block diagram of a USB framework controller and a typical host device.

Figure 13 shows how to attach the frame attachment to the module.

Figure 14 shows a typical complete application.

Figure 15 shows a user interface showing possible locations for different kinds of frame accessories.

Figure 16 shows the electrical circuit for the power frame attachment.

Figure 17A shows how different frame accessories can be attached at different locations.

Figure 17B shows a quarter panel pixel format.

Figures 18a-18d illustrate an alternative embodiment of using a display device as a puzzle.

A detailed description

This application teaches a modular graphic panel intended for electronic signage and display, and describes connectors and connections for use with the panel to form a unit that can be used for many different display purposes. These panels are interlockable to form a matrix of interconnected modular panels. An important aspect of this system is the symmetry of the parts that allow the parts to interlock to form larger parts, and the keyed interconnection that prevents improper connection of the panels. Basic building blocks can be combined in this way to form larger display units.

The frame portion surrounds the edges of the interconnection panels. The frame may include power connections as well as signal connections to a matrix of interlocking panel units.

The basic structure of the module is shown in Figure 1. The symmetrical graphic panel 100 includes a number of light emitting diodes (LEDs) 102, 104 which can be individually switched on to form any desired display. In this embodiment, the lighting means are LEDs, but it is understood that any kind of lighting means can be used. In another embodiment, the lighting device may be a liquid crystal device. But generally any kind of lighting arrangement can be used, including plasma, DMD based projection, etc.

The symmetrical shape and location and size of the interlocking projections will prevent the modules from being interlocked unless the light emitting faces of the modules are all facing in the same direction. In the disclosed embodiments, the modules are formed with trapezoidal interlocking shapes. However, other embodiments of interlocking shapes may also be used. In one such embodiment, the two-part movement allows locking of both the horizontal and vertical stiffness of the connection between the edges. This could use a snap assembly within the current interlocking system, or it could use a two-dimensional chamfered system to allow interlocking. Alternatively, interconnected half-depth flanges can be used.

Other shapes of interlocking operations can also occur, such as using a slotted cylinder with internal contacts to avoid sharp edges.

The basic embodiment uses a 10 inch square unit with 256 LEDs arranged in 16 rows and 16 columns defining a matrix. It should be understood, however, that other dimensions are contemplated. Four-inch size modular panels are available for units designed to be viewed more closely. 18-inch modular panels are also available for applications that will be viewed at relatively long distances. Furthermore, although the description refers to these units as being square, it is understood that the basic shape is a perimeter with four sides forming a square; wherein each side extends in a substantially rectilinear direction. However, each side is not flat like a perfect square; instead, each straight side has a chamfered interconnect on top. In fact, the envelope of the outer shape is square. But for the purposes of this specification, we describe sides extending in a rectilinear direction, with the understanding that sides do not have to be flat.

Each edge 108 of the panel includes a mechanical interlocking portion 110 having a substantially trapezoidal shape, which allows interlocking with another cooperating unit with each other. Each portion of the interlock unit also includes connector portions 112, which may be constructed of stainless steel or other conductors.

In this embodiment, each side of the panel has five connectors, resulting in a total of 20 connection pins on each of the four sides. These pins provide power, row and column scan signals, and serial communication, as described here. The placement of the conductors on the edge portion avoids exposed wires and exposed wiring. Of course, the number of conductors is a matter of design choice and other numbers of leads may be used.

Figure 2 shows how multiple units can interlock to form larger interlocking matrix panels. Obviously, any number of displays can be interlocked in any desired shape to form the final display panel. For example, many units can be interconnected to form a display image with 160,000 LEDs over 20 feet square and a graphics panel display area of 520 feet ² . Figure 2 also shows a wedging configuration of the modular connections to avoid that the units are interconnected in an incorrect manner. Each unit has a front side for display, as shown at 120 in FIG. 1 . Each unit also has a back side, not visible in Figure 1, but the side opposite to that shown. The units must be interconnected so that each unit has their front display portions facing the same direction. FIG. 2 shows a normal interlocking relationship where unit 150 is connected to unit 155 . They both have their front faces facing the same way. Thus, the female interlocking portion 153 of unit 150 finds a suitable fit with the male interlocking portion 154 of unit 155 . Note, however, that the bottom has units 160 and 162. Unit 162 is inverted so that female interlocking portion 161 of unit 160 faces female interlocking portion 163 of unit 162 . Thus, it is impossible for the two units to interlock properly. In this way, the shape of the interlocking portions inherently prevents the units from being improperly interconnected.

In one embodiment, the interlocking frame segments form the perimeter of the combined display device. Circuitry within the frame provides power, digital information, and control to connected modular units from an external host device.

Frame sections can also provide memory-mapped images. Non-volatile memory in the frame assembly can be used to control the state of each panel and thus each LED within the panel. Of course, the contents of the non-volatile memory itself can be changed to change the display on the graphics panel.

There are many benefits to be gained with modular panels. Importantly, one of these benefits is based on heat. Each of the multiple graphics panels dissipates its own heat, so no external cooling system is necessary.

In one embodiment, the panel matrix is controlled by an external processor or computer connected to the matrix via frame segments.

The construction of the module of this embodiment can be performed as shown in the assembly drawing of FIG. 4 . Firstly, a substrate 400 of suitable size is formed. As mentioned above, it can be of any size or shape, but is preferably square. A printed circuit board of the same size, such as 405, can also be formed. Connectors for printed circuit boards are also used. In this embodiment, the connector comprises 20 stainless steel flexible conductors, shown as element 410, which are connected around the periphery of the circuit board 405, for example by soldering.

The printed circuit board 405 is attached to the top package 415 with screws or other means. Connections can be made using self-tapping screws via molded bolts on the top connection section. The lens assembly 420 ultimately sits on the top package and is press fit over the top package to form a seal. The lens can scatter the output light.

The connector 410 overlaps the groove on the edge of the top packaging part 415, allowing for reinforcement of the entire structure. This creates a symmetrical assembly that can be placed in any of a number of different orientations.

Figure 5 shows a detailed view of the back 400 of the modules forming the back panel of the modular assembly. The part includes four raised quarter circle sections that can be used to position adhesive material such as Velcro ^™ brand hook and eye type material or other adhesives. A number of Velcro adhesive areas 500 allow the panels to be mounted to the backing plate with a fabric type material. Due to the lightweight construction of the part, this can form a very cost-effective way of making the part. However, drainage notches such as 502 are left between the Velcro adhesive areas 500 to drain any accumulated water. Mounting holes 504 are also provided to allow for more conventional mounting options. Due to the symmetrical interlocking shape of the modules, only one central mounting hole is required, as the symmetrical figure is naturally balanced.

An external controller is used to generate the bitmap image, which generates the scan signals that drive the LEDs. The image can be created and communicated via a USB interface or any other interface that can be used to drive computer hardware.

Contacts used in the device are preferably constructed of stainless steel for outdoor use. Figures 6A and 6B show the different kinds of connectors used. Figure 6A shows a signal edge connector used on the edge of a module. These signal contacts carry signals between different modules. The power contacts are shown in Figure 6B. The connection to the power supply is preferably made in a central location on the modules to allow rotation of each module.

The device can be controlled by a controller logic which preferably communicates with the graphics panel via a high speed interface such as USB. The control circuitry of the graphics panel includes module communication (multiplexed or non-multiplexed LED driver configuration) and signal manipulation logic. Communication paths between the host device and each module allow for proper operation of the modules.

Figure 7 shows an overview of communication within a module that is low cost and can use separate logic. Of course, a system using a low-cost microprocessor can be formed. There are two main input signals: clock and data, which originate from the host device. Data may be transferred via asynchronous signal lines. However, when four or more modules are connected, distortion of these signals will present data errors. For this, the input data is sampled and synchronized with the input clock signal.

Clock and data are generated by the USB frame controller device, gated and summed under the control of an 8-bit MPU on each module, then sent back to the output buffer and reconstituted to the next connected module.

The 8-bit MPU controls these signals when a response from the host device is required. Therefore, the communication circuit is bi-directional, with all command packets being time-slotted.

These signals typically need to travel relatively short distances between interlocked modules. Therefore, separate logic can be used to reduce component cost. Programming for each module is a combination of user assistance and application software. As described herein, the user defines the system orientation (panel configuration). Subsequently, the app changes the identifier on each panel to control the direction of the LED drive matrix signal.

Each module is assigned a unique 32-bit serial identifier that is hardwired into the module at factory assembly. During boot mode, the host device requests each module to provide its identifier. A list of identifiers is made in the controller, and the controller also assigns each module a new graphic panel based identifier at system initialization and after assembly of the different modules. The graphics module microcontroller then manipulates the data signals in the appropriate way to the appropriate side of each module for proper operation of the application.

The start-up mode of the identification and programming module is described herein with reference to FIG. 8, which shows a flow chart followed by the identification and programming module. First, at 800, the application software loads all the different unique identifiers from all the different units. They are arranged into a map in the order received or in some other order. At 805, an output signal is sent to each panel one at a time based on the identifier to brighten the panels. At 810, the user views the output panel and identifies the position and orientation of the panel with the user interface. At 815, the application software records the location for the module and stores it as a map. To facilitate addressing, each module can be assigned a serial (local) address. For example an address matrix could be used where the upper left cell is always cell 00, one cell to the right is cell 01 and so on.

Alternatively, an encoding system using a voltage divider can be used so that the position of the module can be automatically detected by the voltage.

Simplify the communication protocol because of the electronic graphic panel environment. Apply power to all modules initially, keeping the communication path as one-way from the host to the modules. If the host device needs to receive data from the module, it sends a data receive command along with the module identifier. Each different module receives this information, but only the appropriate module responds within the allocated time slot.

Figure 9 shows how a simplified 8-bit microprocessor unit controls the contents of the communication. Four commands are programmed into the microprocessor, which controls all functions required to align the data paths and communications. Each function is slotted, which means that they can only occur in specially allocated time slots. This allows sharing of communication lines.

The four alignment commands include:

setModuleID, which requests the identifier of the module;

SetModuleID, which sets a new temporary identifier for the module;

Set Signal Orientation - As explained here, modular units can be installed in multiple orientations, and this command allows one of four orientations to be set for rows and columns;

Reset—This command verifies to the module that the host has received and processed the commands sent by the module.

In addition, the microcontroller 900 of each module measures the voltage being supplied on the power connection leads. The different units can be powered by DC voltage from a 5V or 8V supply, and this monitoring ensures that the supply is within plus or minus 10% of the specified parameters for the desired amount of power.

If the voltage parameter is outside the expected range, the microcontroller 900 responds to the next host poll to notify the host of the wrong voltage. This makes it possible to set an alarm which can be remedied by additional mains voltage etc.

For each module to function correctly, the row and column scan signals that drive the LED matrix must be connected module by module across the array. In this embodiment, six signals (except the power signal) are connected to each block via edge connection pins. This allows full rotation of each module in any desired direction without polarization. The additional six signals include:

Row Clock—Indicates the Row Clock signal. Synchronize data to this signal.

Row Data - Represents the stream of data being sent to the LEDs.

row reset—a signal that resets data and clock signals as needed.

Column Clock—Synchronizes column data to this signal as well.

Column reset, which resets the data and clock signals for the column.

Column Data - This carries the data stream for the LEDs.

The row and column signals represent the illumination of the individual lighting components in the graphics module in a matrix or non-matrix configuration, the matrix being defined as the signals used for the X and Y axes in the signal generation. For example, if it is necessary to illuminate 64 LEDs, two electronic drive options are available. Each lamp can be driven individually, which requires 64 independent signals or drive components. Alternatively, the 64 lamps may be driven in a matrix configuration, such as an 8x8 matrix. 8 row signals are driven, and 8 column signals are driven simultaneously. This results in the use of only 16 signal drivers as opposed to 64 to illuminate a single lamp within the 64 lamps.

One difference is that fewer signals are necessary to drive the 64 lamps. Furthermore, this provides significantly reduced average dynamic power consumption compared to actual static power consumption.

The row data signal selects the LEDs that need to be lit. This is a single serial data stream with a logic level that lights up one or all of the 256 LEDs or lights on a graphic panel. The signal is in digital format, and a logic 1 (5 or 8 volts) will turn off a single LED, while a logic 1 will illuminate one or all of the 256 LEDs or lamps.

The row data stream corresponds to the Y axis of a module or modules, scanning the signal horizontally.

For example, when each panel is 16×16, 16 modules are interconnected horizontally, a matrix configuration of 16×16 row data signals=256 individual LEDs horizontally×16 vertically.

Row reset is a signal that resets data and clock signals as needed. The row reset signal is used to synchronize the row digital data stream with the row digital clock signal. The data flow is synchronized with a clock pulse per LED each time an LED needs to be lit. If these signals are not sequentially reset before the column data signals are present, an effect called ghosting on the graphics panel is obtained. This appears as a halo around each LED or light emitting device. For extremely transparent images, ghosting is required. Therefore, row and column reset signals are required.

The column clock—column data—is also synchronized to this signal.

A column reset resets the data and clock signals for the column.

Column Data - This carries the data stream for the LEDs.

As mentioned above, three signals are required to efficiently illuminate the row and column LEDs. Reset, clock and data. These three signals are consistent in digital format for the X and Y matrix configurations. The data signal determines which of the 256 LEDs or lighting components are lit. A clock signal is used to synchronize each lighting component and data flow. Reset is used as the end of the graphic panel application and prevents ghosting or halo effects around each of the 256 LEDs. These three signals are provided for column and row scan signals.

Figure 10 shows how the wrong connection of an output connected to an input can cause signal collisions and distort the scan matrix configuration. Interlocking graphic panels have four attachable sides. In this example, it may be used for connection. Each side of the graphics panel has a consistent electrical signal. If the signal going to and from the panel is not controlled, the result is total signal distortion. Figure 10 shows this possible signal distortion and how this messes up the electronic control.

According to the present system, the interlocking pattern module has the ability to interlock one of the four sides without polarization, which is made possible by the control and orientation of these signals.

Figure 11 shows how each signal can be connected to the appropriate signal lines. Tri-state buffers are used on each side of the module under the control of the microcontroller. This buffer can be tri-stated to produce a floating input (output). In this way, (only) one side of the module is active at any one time. The tri-state buffer is switched by using the tri-state bus driver, as shown at 905 in FIG. 9 . The use of tri-state drivers enables the same pin to be used for both input and output by selectively maintaining the device in tri-state.

As mentioned above, frame attachments can be used to provide connections to the modular blocks.

Figure 3 shows an exploded view of the layers of interconnected frame segments that provide power and digital information to each modular assembly. As described herein, power and digital information are obtained from a host device, which can be any computer, such as the computing device shown in FIG. 12 . The host device provides memory-mapped "images" that are sent via connectors to the various graphics panels. The image itself is stored in non-volatile digital memory within the frame assembly. When it is necessary to change the state of any of the lighting devices, the microcontroller accesses the nonvolatile memory in a specified order.

The frame segment shown in Figure 3 comprises three connecting parts. Printed circuit board 305 may include electronics including a microcontroller. The printed circuit board is formed with alignment holes 308 therein. The top enclosure 310 of the frame assembly includes alignment bolts such as 312 . Each alignment hole 308 is adjacent to a corresponding one of alignment bolts 312 such that the outer surfaces of alignment bolts 312 hold the inner surfaces of holes 308 in place. Bottom base plate 320 covers printed circuit board 305 and into which bolts 330 and 332 may be screwed.

An assortment of frame accessories are available, each providing various functions to the arrayed graphic panels. These are grouped into three categories. Three different kinds of frame attachments are available. Three variations are shown in Figures 11A-11C.

FIG. 11A shows an electronics frame accessory USB controller frame accessory with pins 1100 , 1102 , 1104 , 1106 in the form of signals and power pins 1108 , 1110 . This provides both signal and power to the array. The power accessory is shown in FIG. 11B with only one printed circuit board assembly of the power filter assembly with power pins 1112 , 1114 and signal control pins 1100 , 1102 , 1104 , 1106 . The trim frame attachment shown in Figure 11c also has a printed circuit board, power and signal pins, and no electronic components. The trim frame attachment shown in Figure 11c has no connection pins.

For the system to function correctly, the USB Controller Frame Accessory must be connected to the module. The controller frame provides digital signals and power to all connected modules. The controller frame attaches to the host device via a USB serial port or hub. The controller framework includes a USB microcontroller, nonvolatile memory, and glue logic to provide the necessary digital signals. The signals shown in Figure 11A have the following functions:

pin number Pin description pin number Pin description 1 Output row drive data 11 Ground or 0V 2 Output row drive clock 12 Positive power supply 5-8V 3 Output row driver reset 13 input column reset 4 output data communication 14 input column clock 5 Output Data Synchronous Clock 15 Enter column data 6 output column data 16 input data communication 7 output column clock 17 Input Data Synchronous Clock 8 output column reset 18 input row reset 9 Positive power supply 5-8V 19 input line clock 10 Ground or 0V 20 input row data

Basically, digital signals provide row and column matrix scan signals to each module to address each light emitting element on each of these modules.

Control of single or multiple interlocking graphics modules is performed by frame attachments shown in block diagram form in FIG. 12 . The USB framework accessory includes microcontroller 1200, which also includes a USB engine and a direct memory access (DMA) controller. A non-volatile memory 1205 with an associated battery stores data received from the microcontroller. Additionally, glue logic module 1210 provides logic for driving the system as described herein.

The microcontroller communicates the USB protocol and downloads memory-mapped data from the host device. The memory-mapped data is stored in non-volatile memory 1205 . After the data download is complete, the digital data in the memory can be converted into digital signals as multiplexed or non-multiplexed row and column scan signals to drive adjacent scan modules. After the data download is complete, the USB controller framework can operate independently of the host device. The system can operate in real-time mode, where a continuous video and audio streaming application is continuously downloaded to the graphics panel. In standalone mode, after a fully successful download, the system operates independently of the host device. The memory-mapped image stored in non-volatile memory is continuously displayed on the graphics panel until new data is sent. In this embodiment, a cellular radio interface shown at 1220 may be used to allow data in the non-volatile memory to be updated.

Conventionally, the USB framework controller also includes a real-time clock 1225 and an audio processor 1230 that allows communication via the real-time clock.

As an alternative to a cellular radio interface, eg a laptop or mainframe computer may locally use a USB port. An infrared interface can also be used. In operation, the frame attachment can be attached to the graphics module, as shown in FIG. 13 . Frame attachments can be attached to any of the four sides of any modular system, allowing complete flexibility. Only one USB controller frame is necessary per system, and the remaining external frames can be additional electronic functions, trim frames, and power frames, which can be used anywhere along the outside of the graphics modules making up the application.

The power frame attachment will only be necessary if more than the specified number of graphics panels (eg more than 10 to 16 graphics panels) are to be interlocked. This may also depend on the type of lighting device used; for example an indoor lighting device may consume less power than an outdoor lighting device. Each different power frame accessory may be associated with its own external power source terminated within the base plate of the power frame on the printed circuit board. Copper rods sized to deliver 10 amps can be soldered to a printed circuit board as well as connectors on stainless steel pins.

Figure 16 shows a more detailed diagram of the power supply circuit including capacitors for filtering high and low frequency harmonics due to switching. In this example, a 470 μF/16 volt tantalum capacitor can be used for low frequencies and a 100 nF/50 volt capacitor can be used for high frequency harmonics.

The power socket adapter can be a 4.5mm power socket which is mounted flush with the top power frame package. For example, FIG. 14 shows how an application with 20 or more graphics panels can include two different power frames, the first from a USB controller frame 1400 connected to its own power source 1405. The second, dedicated power frame attachment 1410 , is also connected to its own power source 1415 . The USB controller framework 1400 is also connected to a host device 1420 .

The method of module interconnection inherently maintains proper power supply polarity. In this embodiment, the polarity direction includes an external positive connection and an internal negative connection.

The application allows forming suitable positions for the different units. Each panel measures its power and calculates where additional power frame configurations are required. Each graphics module can measure the input power required for its own operation, and if the power exceeds plus or minus 10% programmed, the graphics module itself will alert the USB frame controller through each module's internal communication path. Depending on the host configuration settings, the user will be alerted via the display on the affected graphics module, or the host PC will alert the user with an on-screen prompt.

A diagnostic program running on the PC or host device visually identifies the appropriate power frame attachment location on the user or host visual screen. If a PLC or keyboard interface is used, the USB frame attachment automatically illuminates the graphic panel position for optimization of the power frame attachment.

Figure 15 shows how the color coding system shows where the different power frames and USB controllers may be expected to be located.

The decorative frame attachment provides a decorative appearance to the exterior system to match the power and USB frame attachments and may provide some structural integrity.

The assembled device may have the arrangement shown in Figure 17A. This shows various graphics modules, USB and power accessories, corner inserts and decorative corner inserts.

The control of each LED is described above as if the LEDs could be controlled individually. Figure 17B shows an alternate embodiment using a quarter panel configuration. Applications such as bulletin boards and scoreboards are often viewed from hundreds of meters away. Typical pixel sizes in these systems can be between 5 and 10 inches. Therefore, the LEDs are grouped into clusters of 64 LEDs to allow for an enlarged pixel format. A quarter panel pixel format is shown in Figure 17B. In an alternate embodiment, three-color LEDs may be used in the quarter-pixel format, resulting in a color, quarter-cell pixel format.

Although a single USB controller has been discussed above, multiple USB controllers can be used without splitting to multipletask parts of a large display. This is helpful when running live video or larger applications. As mentioned above, multiple power frame accessories can also be used for various functions, such as recording and displaying time and temperature.

Although described above using the units as modular graphic panels, different applications of the units are possible.

Another embodiment describes a liquid crystal panel, which can be 2 inches square or 4 inches square. These liquid crystal panels can use the same basic housing and set up the structure with smaller panels.

Liquid crystal models can have very low power consumption and can maintain images for up to 31 days without power being applied. Power is needed to change the image, but very little power is needed to maintain the image. The mockup can be used in different applications including airport information systems, interactive educational toys, indoor video screens and advertising displays.

A particular application of the unit is in electronic puzzle boards, as shown in Figures 18A-18D. To use the electronic jigsaw puzzle, first interconnect the desired number of units as shown in Figure 18A, then download the selected image from an Internet site or use an image stored on the computer.

Figure 18B shows selected images displayed on an interconnected puzzle board. Subsequently, as shown in Fig. 18C, the panel is disassembled. Due to the low power consumption, this downloaded image is maintained even without an additional power supply. Next, the puzzle assembler assembles the selected pieces in an attempt to form the above-mentioned downloaded image, as shown in Figure 18D.

While only a few embodiments have been disclosed in detail above, other modifications are possible. All such modifications are intended to be covered by the following claims. For example, while colors are not disclosed above at all, it should be understood that a tri-color LED could be used to emit red, green and yellow. This can form a multi-color display.

Claims (23)

1. A modular graphic panel assembly comprising: A first modular block comprising a display surface, an edge portion defining at least one planar surface, a first contact for power distribution and a second contact for signal distribution on said at least one planar surface, and A mechanical interlocking portion is formed on the edge surface. 2. The assembly of claim 1, further comprising a second modular block, wherein the connecting portion of the first modular block interlocks with a corresponding connecting portion of the second modular block, And the first contact piece of the first modular block is connected with the first contact piece of the second modular block. 3. The assembly of claim 1, further comprising a tri-state snubber coupled to said second contacts, allowing each of said second contacts to function as a input or output contacts. 4. The assembly of claim 2, further comprising a frame assembly surrounding the first and second modular blocks, and at least a portion of the frame assembly is connected to the first and second modular blocks. second contact. 5. The assembly of claim 4, comprising four of said modular blocks arranged in a generally rectangular shape. 6. The assembly of claim 4, wherein said frame assembly includes a USB circuit that receives a USB signal and transmits said USB signal to said second contact. Signal. 7. The assembly of claim 1, wherein each of said modular blocks includes a plurality of light emitting diodes. 8. The assembly of claim 2, wherein the connecting portion has a generally trapezoidal shape and is connectable to other connecting portions by movement in a direction generally perpendicular to the surface of the modular block , but cannot be connected or disconnected by movement along a direction generally parallel to the surfaces of the modular blocks. 9. The assembly of claim 2, wherein said connecting portion has a generally trapezoidal shape with first and second parallel sides one of which is longer than the other, and in said connecting portion First and second sloped sides extending between the first and second parallel sides. 10. A modular display unit comprising: A symmetrical housing having a top surface with a controllable display portion thereon, and edge portions with mechanically interlocking portions thereon, each mechanically interlocking portion on one of said edge portions being of a different size and shape than the other Edge portions on the housing are interlocked, and the housing includes a connector portion that provides electrical and signal connections to the display portion. 11. The unit of claim 10, wherein the connector portion is formed on the edge portion. 12. The unit of claim 11, wherein the connector portion is formed on each surface of the edge portion. 13. The unit of claim 11 , wherein the modular unit is formed with an outer perimeter having a plurality of generally rectilinear portions forming a generally square outer perimeter, and wherein the connector portion is formed on the on each of the above-mentioned linear portions. 14. The unit of claim 10, wherein the mechanical interlocking portion is formed by beveled edges joined to other beveled edges. 15. The unit of claim 10, wherein the mechanically interlocking portion is formed of a prescribed shape to connect only with units having their top surfaces in the same orientation. 16. The unit of claim 10, further comprising a tri-state buffer connected to the connector. 17. A display assembly comprising: a plurality of modular units each having a symmetrical shape and having flat edges interconnected with other modular units, the plurality of modular units arranged in an array and each of the modular units have an electrical connection to another modular unit; and A frame section enclosing the perimeter of the modular cell matrix and connected to at least one of the modular cell matrices. 18. The assembly of claim 17, wherein each of the modular units has a generally square shape forming four edge portions defining a perimeter of the modular unit. 19. The assembly of claim 17, wherein said electrical connection is formed on each of said four edge portions, thereby allowing part of the connection. 20. The assembly of claim 17, wherein the frame portion includes electrical circuitry therein. 21. The assembly of claim 17, further comprising memory within said electrical circuit that provides information to be displayed on said modular unit. 22. A method comprising: Assembling multiple modular display panels into the desired shape; determining the location of each of said display panels and forming a map defining said locations; and An overall display is sent to the device of the desired shape by using the map to determine which parts of the device should be displayed. 23. A method comprising: assembling a modular display panel by connecting a first portion of the display panel to a second portion of the display panel; and Unless the light-emitting surfaces of the two display panels are in the same direction, the panels are mechanically prevented from being connected.

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