The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Nov. 27, 1979
Filed:
Sep. 19, 1977
William G Thistle, Manotick, CA;
Joseph G Dionne, Loretteville, CA;
Abstract
A large area visual display matrix of ultra-violet initiated individual small gas discharge elements. Each element remains in a discharge condition until the voltage applied to a common anode is turned off and for this reason the matrix requires no associated memory or storage property to remain on as long as information is to be displayed. The matrix generally comprises, in order, an electrically conductive cathode with a low work function material photo-emissive coated thereon which emits electrons when irradiated by U.V. light, an insulating medium with apertures therein, individual anodes with holes therein the holes being axially aligned with the apertures in the insulating medium, a voltage supply for each anode, the foregoing elements being sandwiched between a base and a U.V. permeable cover, and a suitable gas filling for the apertures. A source of U.V. light is directed at the portion of the visual display it is desired to illuminate.