DE2117919A1 - - Google Patents

Description

Munich, 13 14 * 1 - Pk / Bu

21179Ί9

SPERRY RAND CORPORATION, New York, New York IOOI6, USA

Gas discharge display device

The invention relates to gas discharge display or display devices.

Certain types of known display devices use light emitting semiconductor elements, such as gallium arsenide diodes, which are arranged in matrix configurations. A selective control of the elements of the matrix produces visible representations of the desired symbols. Devices of this type are found in many cases because of the high Cost of the semiconductor elements used as expensive. Furthermore, the currently available semiconductor light-emitting elements are not suitable for producing light outputs with high intensity, which makes the cases where such Representation devices can be effectively used, limited.

Furthermore, gas discharge display devices are known that an alternating voltage excitation along the electrodes of the the representation-forming elements require in order to ignite electrical discharges through the gas and upright obtain. Such display devices tend to generate high-frequency interference signals that may cause the

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Interfere with the operation of nearby electronic equipment. Display devices using AC excitation require complicated addressing and control circuits for the preferential ignition of discharges at selected ones Elements of the device to form the desired symbols. Such devices turn out to be in many cases extremely complex. In addition, display devices excited by AC voltage often require excessively large control voltages, thereby further exacerbating the above-mentioned problems.

In addition, there are DC-excited gas discharge representations Devices known in which various of the above-mentioned disadvantages of AC voltage-excited display devices fall away. For example, devices excited by DC voltage do not emit or require any high-frequency interference signals complicated addressing circuits and furthermore do not require excessively large drive voltages, as is the case with AC voltage devices the case is. DC excited display devices use orthogonal in many cases Aligned sets of conductors that are located in an ionizable gas or individually controllable gas cells. By investing a suitable DC voltage potential between selected

V ι I

In the device there are gas discharges in the gas cells the device ignited. Because of the in many cases to the Metal sputtering occurring in the cathode electrodes is common in devices of this type with failures and deteriorations the operating properties due to cathode erosion, short circuits between the electrodes and obscuration of the clear viewing sleeve due to the deposition of Cathode material. In order to achieve a bright display, high currents must be used between the electrodes of the elements thereby exacerbating the atomization problem and further shortening the life of the device.

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Large surface area cathodes can be used to reduce the erosion effects of sputtering. this

Cr I

however results in ill-defined / slim discharges that exceed ( the enlarged cathode surfaces are scattered and thus result in a representation with insufficient resolution.

Although various of the known types of devices have cathode elements with hollow parts, the glow / in many cases not limited to the hollow parts, thereby adding to the above-mentioned problems. Additionally the anode electrodes of known devices often protrude into the hollow parts of the cathodes and result in short circuits between the electrodes due to the sputtered cathode metal. Those provided by such known devices Cathodic and brain discharges are in many cases caused by ( narrow openings considered, thereby reducing the light output efficiency is decreased.

Devices of the type described above can be used, for example, for large-area computer-operated information displays or for smaller alphanumeric read-out displays or for bright external display fields, such as those used for used for commercial advertising purposes. The above explained Disadvantages such as insufficient resolution, short lifespan, insufficient light output power, hampered

^ oil discharges and high costs result in many cases / a limitation of the usefulness of such devices for applications of the type described.

According to one concept of the invention, one includes Gas discharge display device cathode means comprising a number of hollow ones arranged in a predetermined pattern Cathode parts arranged at a distance from the cathode means Anode means close to ^ but to reduce / Short circuits between electrodes due to sputtering

ORIGINAL INSPECTED. /.

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are arranged outside the hollow parts, gas-tight, the hollow parts and the anode means together with an ionizable gas enclosing envelope means which have a transparent part for viewing the hollow cathode parts, and connecting means which are enclosed in the cathode and anode means and with a electrical potential sources are connectable in order to apply suitable potentials between the anode and cathode means for generating electrical discharges in selected hollow cathode parts, the anode means being arranged in such close proximity to the hollow parts and the. hollow parts w have such a depth that only cathode glow discharges, which are essentially limited to these, can occur, whereby the sputtered cathode material is essentially limited to the interior of the hollow parts

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and sharply demarcated flame discharges can be defined. /

The present invention thus results in a DC voltage excited Gas discharge representation with a number of hollow cathode parts arranged in a predetermined pattern jj ../ The hollow parts or holes in the cathodes and the tensi-,? The associated anode means are enclosed in a gas-tight envelope together with an ionizable gas. One | Control of selected cathodes and anodes by suitable ^ between these applied DC voltage potentials / ignites gas discharges in the holes of the selected cathodes, resulting in the desired representation.

Because, due to the geometry of the hollow cathode light cells used, the gas discharges essentially affect the holes are limited in the cathodes, the resolution of the device is only due to the practical dimensions the hollow cathode parts limited. Because the one used to generate the gas discharge on each cathode part Surface can extend into the inner surface of the cathode hole - results in a relatively large cathode surface for every gas discharge cell. Therefore, relatively high currents in

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ORIGINAL INSPECTED

a cell that has a high intensity output without undue current densities at the cathode result. Thus, the sputtering of the cathode material is reduced. The unwanted effects of atomization are further reduced because the sputtered cathode material is symmetrical again within the interior of the Cathode hole is likely to be distributed. Thus, the service life of the display device according to the invention is increased and that so far with such Problems associated with display devices are reduced.

Because the device according to the invention is relatively uncomplicated and uses simple DC voltage potentials can be addressed and controlled, the cost of the device will be compared to known devices decreased.

Since the device according to the invention is controlled with direct voltage potentials, the anode means of be small and inconspicuous construction. and hinder

so the consideration of the Jewish discharges is not, as is the case with 7 known devices is the case.

According to a further aspect of the invention, a gas discharge display device comprises an electrically conductive cathode having a hollow part disposed therein, an electrically conductive anode located at a distance from the cathode and located in the vicinity of the hollow part, a transparent part, hermetically sealed with the cathode, which has a fiber seal, the hollow part and the anode with J forms an envelope enclosing an ionizable gas, and connecting means which can be connected to a source of electrical potential for selectively applying an appropriate potential between the anode and the cathode to produce a p ^ electrical Discharge in the hollow part.

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The invention is described below with reference to six embodiments of the invention shown in the drawing explained in more detail. In the drawing show:

Fig. 1 is an exploded perspective, partially sectioned view and a Block diagram of the first embodiment of the display device

Figs. 2-4 are views similar to Fig. 1, each showing

the second, third and fourth embodiments represent the device

Figure 5 is a fragmentary exploded perspective view of a fifth Embodiment of the device

6 is a sectional view of the sixth embodiment of the device

Fig. 7 is a waveform diagram showing the potentials for driving the elements of the Figures 3 and 4 shown display devices shows.

The display device shown in Fig. 1 has the shape

an alphanumeric or symbol readout indicator 10,

which can be used, for example, for electrical calculating machines.

A dielectric member 11, which can be made of a suitable material such as glass or ceramic, for example, has a Number of holes formed therein in a predetermined pattern. For purposes of illustration, it is a rectangular arrangement of five by seven holes shown, one of which

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typical hole 12 is. It will be understood that other hole patterns could be used, such as the usual numeric or alphanumeric patterns, depending on the purpose for which the indicator is to be used

10 is determined. In addition, a hole 13 and holes 14 are provided for generating a decimal point or a comma. A hollow cathode 16 is sealingly inserted in the hole 12 and a number of identical hollow cathodes is inserted in the remaining holes in the part 11 in a sealing manner. The hollow cathode 16 consists of a metal rod with an axial hole 17 formed therein. An electrical conductor 20 connects the hollow cathode 16 to the addressing circuit 21 and a number of identical electrical conductors connect the other cathodes in the same way the addressing circuits 21. A potential source 22 supplies direct voltages to the addressing circuits 21.

A transparent dielectric part 23, which can consist of glass, is sealing with the dielectric part 11 connected, with an intermediate disc 24 is arranged between these parts. The parts 11 and 23j with each other are sealed and are kept at a distance by the washer 24, form a gas-tight envelope that the Holes 17 of the cathode 16 and the holes of the remaining cathodes includes. It can be understood that the dielectric part

11 can be formed in one piece with the intermediate plate 24 or that, alternatively, the intermediate disk can be formed as part of the transparent dielectric part 23. Any convenient method known in vacuum pipe technology can be used to hermetically seal parts 11 and be used. It can be seen that the cathode 16 is hermetically sealed in the hole 12 and that the rest Cathodes are sealed in the same way in the remaining holes in the part.

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A metallic one arranged on the surface 26 of the part 23 Anode 25 is arranged adjacent to the holes of the cathodes at a distance. The anode 25 can be transparent Metal film such as tin oxide deposited on surface 26. It is understandable that others metallic coatings as well as fine metal grids can be used equally well. A conductive flap 27 is provided in order to produce an electrical contact from the outside of the gas-tight envelope to the anode 25. Of the Tab 27 is connected to addressing circuits 21 via an electrical line 30.

It will be understood that one of the cathodes, such as cathode 31, can be used as a tube for the airtight envelope formed by parts 11 and 23. The cathode 31 can be a metal tube through which the envelope is evacuated. The envelope can then be filled with an ionizable gas such as neon, argon, or the Penning mixture (99.5 % neon plus 0.5 % argon) at a reduced pressure such as 75 torr. The cathode 31 can then be sealed using any conventional method known in the vacuum tube art. Alternatively, a conventional filling pipe can be used for these purposes.

The operation of the indicator 10 will be apparent from an understanding of the operation of a single hollow cathode light source this indicator 10 understandable. A positive DC voltage potential with sufficient amplitude between the Anode 25 and the cathode 16 are applied, .fiifides an I electrical discharge in the hole 17 · This potential becomes J | ft £ ls denotes ignition or ionization potential. A Potential with a sufficiently smaller amplitude than that of the ignition potential between the βΙ / ode and the cathode is applied, extinguishes any discharge existing in the hole 17. This potential is called the erase potential.

BATH ORIGINAL 109850/1038

The operating potentials for a hollow cathode gas discharge cell depend on the ionizable gas used and its pressure as well as on the geometry and the distance between the electrodes. Using cathode holes approximately 1 mm (0.04 ") in diameter and approximately 1.5 mm (0.06") deep and with an anode-to-cathode spacing of approximately 0.63 mm (0.025 ") in one Penning mixture (99.5 % neon plus 0.5 % argon) under a pressure of 75 torr, suitable operation was achieved with ignition and extinguishing potentials of approximately 160 and 130 volts, respectively. It can be seen that the specified operating parameters are not critical and that deviations from them can be made.

During operation, ground potential is applied to the anode 25 from the potential source 22 via the addressing circuits 21 and the line 30. The cathodes selected by the addressing circuits 21 are supplied with a voltage of minus 160 V from the potential source 22. Unselected cathodes are grounded with the aid of the addressing circuits 21. Thus, electrical discharges are ignited in the holes of the selected cathodes and the desired symbols or characters are displayed. For example, causes Aniegen the firing potential to the Kathodee332 \ and erase potential to the other cathode displaying the number "4".

It is understood that the addressing © »21 may comprise conventional logic circuits for selectively f Zufühfaung the ignition and extinction potentials provided by the potential source 22 to the cathodes of the indicator 10 in response to data inputs at a terminal 33rd Therefore, a wide variety of characters and symbols can be selectively represented by the 5x7 matrix of hollow cathodes and an associated decimal point or comma can be generated from the cathodes sealingly inserted in the holes 13 and 14.

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As explained further above, the indicator 10 can be used as an alphanumeric read-out indicator in electronic calculating machines be used. It will be understood that essentially the same construction can be used for display panels used outdoors, given the dimensions of the components of the indicator can be enlarged and a larger cathode matrix is used. The cathode rods can be extended further and the holes in it are made deeper, so that high-intensity images through the large ones, through the extensive inner surface of the cathodes drawn currents are generated. Sufficient cooling for such high- ™ intensive representations can usually be achieved by convection or compressed air flow over the cathode rods, which extend from the rear of the part 11. Electrical contact with the individual cathodes is more common Way achieved at these exposed parts of the cathode rods.

It is clear that the surface of the cathode rods is flush with the surface of the part 11 and that the surface of the cathode rods alternatively in the holes in the part 11 can be set back to avoid the effects of any remaining sputtering of cathode material ) to reduce to adjacent electrodes.

The indicator 10 has been described as having the holes in the Part II pass through this with the cathode rods inserted sealingly therein and on the rear surface 34 of part 11 are exposed. It is understandable that the holes in Part 11 does not go completely through this part and that hollow cylinders inserted into the holes can be used as the cathode electrodes. With such an arrangement, the part 11 can constitute a transparent dielectric block through its rear

-considered wexden ^ .üas

1 0 9 S S 0/1 i 3 I ORlGiNAU JNSPECTED

- ii - 2117319

Surface 34 the cathode discharges can be viewed. That transparent dielectric part 23 can then by a Metal part are replaced, which is sealed with the dielectric part 11 to form the gas-tight envelope, wherein the metal part acts as the anode of the indicator. It is further understandable that the cathodes in the holes of the plate II can be formed using conventional electroplating techniques.

In Fig. 2, in which like reference numerals designate like parts as those of Fig. 1, a second embodiment is shown in FIG Device shown. This embodiment has an indicator 40, which can be used for the same purposes as those described in relation to the indicator 10 of FIG can. The indicator 40, however, has design features that make it more economical to manufacture than it is to manufacture of the indicator 10.

An electrically conductive cathode member 41, which may be made of any suitable metal, has a number of therein holes formed in a predetermined pattern. The holes can be in accordance with one of the procedures with regard to FIG. 1 illustrated pattern and each hole extends only partially through the part 41. The inner surface each hole forms the hollow cathode electrode of a light cell of the indicator 40 in a manner to be explained. An electrical line 42 connects the conductive cathode part 4l to the addressing circuits 21.

A transparent dielectric member 43 made of glass is sealed with the cathode part 4l with an intermediate disk 44 interposed therebetween. The parts 41 and 43, which are sealed with each other, and with the help the intermediate disk 44 are kept at a distance, form

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a gas-tight envelope enclosing the holes in the cathode part 4l in a manner similar to that described in relation to FIG described is similar. The intermediate disk 44 can be either with the part 41 or with the part 43 in FIG. 1 described manner be integrally formed. The gas-tight envelope thus formed can be evacuated and with a ionizable gas such as neon, argon or the Penning mixture can be filled with a reduced pressure.

The anode electrodes for the indicator 40 include electrically conductive ones disposed on the surface 46 of the member 43 Strips 45, which are located within the gas-tight envelope. The AÄOPDEN strips 45 can be transparent metal film strips, such as tin oxide deposited on surface 46. It is clear that it is not disabling Anode strips of other, not necessarily transparent metals as well as other anode constructions can also be used. The anode strips 45 are adjacent to the respective holes of the cathode part 4l arranged, with each strip 45 and its associated hole being a hollow cathode gas discharge light source of the indicator 40 forms in a manner yet to be described. A number of electrically conductive tabs 47 are provided which are connected to the respective anode strips 45 and these Tabs 47 are connected to the addressing circuits via respective lines 50 21 connected.

It will be understood that the strips 45 from the conductive Cathode part 4l must be electrically isolated. This can be accomplished in any conventional manner. For example, k can the intermediate disk 44 consist of a dielectric material and between the anode strips 45 and the cathode part 4l be arranged so that electrical contact between them is prevented.

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The mode of operation of the indicator 40 is similar to the described mode of operation of the indicator 10 according to FIG. 1. Earth potential is applied via the addressing circuits 21 and the line 42 from a potential source 48 to the cathode part 41. The anode strip 45 selected by the addressing circuits 21 becomes a positive one from the potential source 48 Ignition potential supplied. Unselected anode strips 45 are grounded with the aid of the addressing circuits 21. As a result, electrical gas discharges are preferably 4h the cathode holes ignited in the vicinity of the activated anode strips 45. Thus it is understandable that the desired Symbols or characters are represented by the indicator 10 in a manner dependent on the data inputs at terminal J53 which is similar to that described with reference to FIG.

It is understandable that an anode strip 45 can only be used in the Should be arranged near the cathode holes that are to be controlled by this. The pattern of the anode strips 45 on the surface 46 must be arranged such that no stripe 45 is in the vicinity of one that is not assigned to it Loches is located. This is necessary so that no discharges are ignited in holes that are not the controlled ones Strips 45 are assigned so that the fidelity of the displayed pattern is maintained. As alternative electrically insulating material 51 * such as e.g. Glass frit can be used to cover the respective surfaces of the strips 45 with the exception of the parts adjacent to the associated holes.

It will be understood that more than one cathode hole can be assigned to each anode strip 45 if discharges are in them Holes can be ignited and extinguished at the same time. It is further clear that the indicator 40

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can be used for applications corresponding to those which have been explained with reference to Fig. 1 and that it is due to the less complicated structural design of the indicator 10 is more economical to manufacture it. The operating parameters for the indicator 40 can be based on • the constructional differences differ from those of the indicator 10.

Although the cathode part 4l has been described as being

"Holes" which are only partially in the cathode part It will be understood that the indicator 40 can be constructed with holes extending completely through the part 41 go through it. A clear piece (not shown) may then be used to seal the rear surface 52 of the Part 41 can be used to complete the gas-tight enclosure. The gas discharges can then be caused by the see through part.

It is also clear that the light intensity of the indicators shown in Pig, 1 and 2 over wide areas by « Setting their operating currents can be changed to adapt them to different viewing conditions.

In FIG. 5, in which elements corresponding to FIG. 1 have The same reference numerals are denoted is a third embodiment the device shown. This embodiment includes an indicator 60 which is particularly useful for a ^ / large display area is suitable. The indicator 60 can, for example, be connected to a computer during operation or used for commercial outdoor advertising. The elements of the indicator 60 are selected by a coordinate selection technique controlled, which is yet to be described.

A dielectric member 61 made of a suitable material,

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such as glass or ceramic, has a number of holes formed therein, which are in a matrix of 62 rows and columns are arranged. A 5x5 hole matrix is shown for explanatory purposes. However, it is It will be understood that, in a practical representation, there will be thousands or tens of thousands of holes in a matrix configuration can be used.

A number of hollow cathodes 63, which are referred to in reference on ffig. 1 described are similar to the respective holes of the part 6l are inserted in a manner similar to that described above with reference to FIG described is similar. The cathodes 6j5 of each row of the Matrix 62 are connected to one another with the help of five electrical series conductors 64, 65, 66, 67 and 68, which in turn are connected to addressing circuits 71. A potential torment 72 supplies DC voltages to the addressing circuits 71.

A transparent dielectric part 75 *, which can consist of glass, is sealingly connected to the dielectric part 61, an intermediate plate "Jk" being arranged between them a gas-tight envelope which encloses the holes in the hollow cathodes 65 in a manner similar to that described with reference to Big. 1. The washer fk can be formed integrally with either part 61 or part 75 in a manner which was explained in the description of Pig can be used as a filling pipe for the gas-tight envelope in the manner described above.

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The anode electrodes for the indicator 60 include five electrically conductive strips 76, 77, 78, 79 and 80 that extend on the surface 85 of the part 75 are arranged, wherein the strips are located within the gas-tight envelope. The strips 76 to 80 are shown through transparent on the Metal film strips disposed on surface 83, e.g. Tin oxide formed. It is understandable that anode strips made of other metals as well as other anode constructions, which e.g. fine wires can also be used. The anode strips 76 to 80 are in columns arranged in the vicinity of the holes of the cathode columns 63 of the matrix 62. Five conductive ones, with the respective anode strips 76 to 80 connected tabs 84 are connected to the addressing circuits 71 via corresponding lines 85 to 89 turned on.

The operation of a single hollow cathode light source or Cell of the indicator 60 corresponds to that with respect to a single cell of the indicator 10 according to Pig. I described Operation. Ignition and extinguishing potentials are necessary and for the reasons given in the description of FIG In addition, a voltage with a medium amplitude is required to maintain ignited discharges. The voltage can be used as an operating or maintenance potential are designated. It is understandable that the operating or maintenance potential does not lead to ignition a discharge in a cell is sufficient and that a discharge ignited in a cell by the application of the Operating potential is maintained.

The operating potentials for a hollow cathode gas discharge cell depend on the ionizable gas used and its pressure as well as on the geometry and the spacing of the Electrodes. Using cathode holes from un-

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about 1.6 mm (0.062 in) diameter and 5 mm (0.2 in) Depth and with an anode-cathode spacing of approximately 1.5 mm (0.05 inches) in a neon atmosphere at one pressure of 12 Torr were suitable operating values with ignition ^ maintenance and extinguishing potentials of 350 or 250 or 150 volts achieved. It is clear that these operating parameters are not critical and that deviations therefrom are possible are.

During operation, ground potentials are applied from the potential source to the lines 64 to 68 ^{via the addressing circuits 1 J1.} The maintenance potential of 250 volts is supplied to the anode strips 76 to 80 from the potential source via the addressing circuits 71 and the lines 85 to 89. Thus, it can be understood that the sustaining potential of 250 volts is applied across each hollow cathode cell of matrix 62.

In order to start a discharge in a hole of a selected cathode of the matrix 62, the addressing circuits increase 71 the one associated with the selected cathode Anode strips and reduce the potential applied to the anode associated row conductor so that the potential along the selected cell corresponds to the ignition potential is equivalent to. The increased and decreased potentials are selected so that the potentials along the length are not selected cells of the matrix 62 remain smaller than the ignition potential. When the zoomed in and zoomed out Potentials are removed from the selected conductors, the maintenance potential applied to all cells of the matrix 62 is maintained the discharge opened in the hole of the selected cathode is maintained. To delete the Discharge in a hole of a selected cathode of the matrix 62 reduces the addressing circuits 71 that of the

BATH ORIGINAL

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■ - ¹⁸ "211 791 p

selected cathode Associated anode strips applied potential and increase the voltage applied to the row conductor associated therewith * potential so that the potential exerts along selected. Cell equals the extinguishing potential! is.

The reduced and irergrößerten potentials are formed \ that the potential along the nioht selected cell of the matrix 62 is greater than the Löschpoteatiai bleibtο Thus wivä only di © Intladung in the hole dsr selected cathode gslöaelit ,,

Meim © s feQispialsisjeise ex-WIMS. Is @ tit., QIes iänt charge in desa Loeii 93 ä © 2 »EatläoSe 92 to ignite ,, u r ^ ei aas to the Pmeüomstz qi & QSI 76 aaielegt © ÄufpsöfetsEtÄaltuiigspoteatial 230 volts ma 30 ¥ olt on eia PotQiafci & l voa 2 & Q volts

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BATH ORIGINAL

that on the cells in the row associated with the cathode 92 and column of the matrix 62 a voltage of 180 volts is applied, which does not erase the in this upright received discharges is sufficient.

It is therefore understood that by appropriate control of the row conductors 64 to 68 and the anode strips 76 to 80 selected cathodes of the matrix 62 can be ignited and extinguished, creating a desired information pattern can be displayed on the display 60.

It is further understood that the addressing circuits 71 are conventional logic circuits for selective supply the ignition, maintenance, and Erase potentials to the row of lines 64 to 68 and to the anode strips 76 to 80 as a function of the data inputs at the connection 33 may include. Consequently can selectively generate a wide variety of display patterns from the matrix 62 of hollow cathode light sources will.

The selectively supplied from the addressing circuits 71 Potentials are shown in Fig. 7, which shows the magnitude and duration of the various voltage levels. It it is understandable that it is not necessary to maintain tension to zoom in and out symmetrically, as explained above, to reduce the Generate ignition and extinguishing potentials. A scheme of applied voltages can be used that differs from that of the one explained differs and one asymmetrical enlargement and reduction of the maintenance voltage for generating the ignition and extinguishing potentials.

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It will be understood that the indicator 60 is suitable for applications requiring high intensity display for the reasons explained with reference to FIG. It will also be understood that the transparent member 73 should be positioned close to the front surface of the dielectric member 61 so as to prevent the migration of ions and electrodes between the various cathodes of the indicator. This is necessary in order to avoid false ignition of discharges in unselected k holes. The end faces of the cathode rods 6j are set back with respect to the holes in the part 6l in order to obtain an anode-cathode distance suitable for optimum operating characteristics of the indicator;

The indicator 60 has been described as having holes formed through the part 6l with the cathode rods 6j5 sealingly inserted in the part 6l and exposed on the rear surface of the part 6l. It will be understood that the holes in part 61 need not extend completely therethrough and that hollow cylinders inserted into the holes can be used as cathode electrodes. In such an arrangement, the part * 61 may be formed by a transparent dielectric block, dureh its rear side the cathode discharges are considered. It will also be understood that the cathodes can be formed in the holes of member 61 using suitable electroplating techniques.

In Fig. 4, the same reference numerals are used in the same components with reference to Fig. j5, a fourth embodiment of the display device is shown. This display device includes an indicator 100 which can be used for the same purposes as referred to

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on the display 60 were described. The scoreboard 100 however, includes a hollow cathode assembly eä) l a, the can be mechanically more stable and more economical to manufacture than that of the indicator 60.

The hollow cathode arrangement 101 comprises a number of electrically conductive cathode parts 102 to 106 in which rows of holes are formed in each case. The holes extend only partially through the parts 102 to 106, with the inner surface of each hole being the hollow cathode electrode a light cell in a manner similar to that in FIG. 2. Parts 102-106 can be any of suitable metal and are aligned in relation to one another in such a way that the respective row »the soldering rather form hole gaps. It is thus clear that the holes in the cathode parts 102-106 are a matrix of rows and form columns. For purposes of illustration, a matrix of 5x5 holes is shown. It is clear, however, that Representations carried out in practice can use a larger matrix, as described above with reference to FIG. 3 became. The five electrically conductive cathode parts 102 to 106 are from above in relation to FIG. 3 given reasons connected to the addressing circuits 71 via five lines 107 to 111. The potential source 72 supplies DC voltages to the addressing circuits 71 in a manner and for reasons discussed in connection with FIG.

The cathode parts 102 to 106 omit to be explained Foundations between adjacent holes arranged webs 114. The cathode parts 102 to 106 are sealing connected to one another, with electrical insulators 115 to 118 alternate between these parts 102 to 10 $ anoid-

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are net. The top surfaces of the insulators 115-118 are aligned with the top surfaces of the lands 114.

A transparent dielectric part 121, which corresponds to part 73 3 corresponds to the cathode arrangement 101 at its edges tightly connected to this and forms a gas-tight casing that holds the holes in the cathode parts 102-106 in a manner similar to that shown in FIG Regarding Pig. 3 has been described. The parts 101 and 121 can be sealed at the edges by any conventional means (not shown for clarity) which are known in the vacuum tube technology. the Surface 122 of part 121 abuts the surfaces of both webs 114 and insulators 115-118. The gas-tight envelope formed between parts 101 and 121 can be of any one of the art in vacuum tube technology known manner and evacuated with an ionizable gas, such as neon, argon or PenningeMisehung at reduced Draiek to be filled.

Five anode electrodes in the form of strips 123-127 disposed on the surface 122 of the part 121 in a manner that described in relation to the part 73 of FIG is equivalent to. The strips 123 to 127 therefore form column anaedanes in the vicinity of the respective hole columns in part 101 in a manner as described with respect to FIG. Electrically conductive, with the Tabs 130 connected to the respective anode strips 123 to 127 are as explained in connection with FIG. 3 and are made of the addressing circuits 71 are connected for the same reasons.

The operation of a single hollow cathode light source or cell of the indicator 100 is similar to that described in relation to FIG on a single cell of the indicator 40 according to FIG.

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was ben. The operation of the indicator 100, in which electrical ^, selectively see discharges in the holes of the cathode assembly 101 ignited and extinguished by suitable control of the lines 107 to 111 and the anode strips 123 to 127 thereby displaying desired information patterns is identical to the operation of the indicator 60, which was described in connection with FIG. 3. For example, there are electrical discharges in the hole 131 by applying the ignition and extinguishing potentials to the electrically conductive cathode part 102 via the line 107 and selectively ignited and extinguished at the anode tabs 125.

To avoid unwanted ignition of discharges in unselected Can prevent holes due to the migration of ions and electrons between the cathodes Barriers around each hole in the matrix may be required. The webs 114 and the insulators 115 to 118, their surfaces abut the surface 122 of the part 121 form the necessary barriers.

Although the cathode assembly 101 has been described as having holes partially formed in that assembly on » It will be understood that the indicator can be constructed with holes extending completely through the cathode parts 102 to 106 are formed therethrough. A clear piece (not shown) can then be used to cover the to seal the rear surface 132 of the assembly 101 to complete the gas-tight enclosure. The gas discharges can then be viewed through the transparent part.

In Fig. 5 a modification of the indicators shown in Figs. 1 to 4 is shown, dwfe a multicolored display / positional opportunity results. It's a fragmentary one

109850/1038 ' ^Λ

A view of a diagram explaining the operating principles of the modified embodiment is shown.

The sections 140 and 141 represent, for example, parts of indicators such as the indicator 40 according to FIG. 2, the holes in the cathode parts 142 and 143 being formed completely through them. The hole pattern in the part l42 is identical to the hole pattern in the part l4j5. The parts 142 and 143 are relative to each other. aligned such that corresponding holes therethrough * are axially aligned with respect to one another. Two transparent parts 144 and 145 are respectively tightly connected to parts 142 and 143 and form respective gas-tight enclosures in the manner described in connection with FIG. The gas-tight envelopes connected to the Abselanitten 14o and 14l can be filled with various ionizable gases. For example, the envelope connected to section 140 can be filled with neon and the envelope connected to section 14l with argon in the manner described in connection with FIG. 2.

| The parts 142 and 143 are with the opposite surfaces a transparent part 146 connected. The part 146 is used to complete the gas-tight, the sections l40 and l4l associated sheaths are used.

Electrical discharges can be ignited and extinguished selectively in the cathode holes of parts 142 and 14; 5, any of the techniques described in connection with Figures 1 through 4 can be used. For example For example, an electrical discharge can be ignited or extinguished in the hole 150 and in the same way an electrical discharge ignited in the hole 151 or

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that is axially aligned with the hole I50 is.

Electrical discharges from the neon gas in the section Gas-tight envelopes assigned to l4o emit a red-colored light and cause electrical discharges the argon gas in the gas-tight envelope assigned to section 14l emits a blue-colored light. It is understandable that due to internal reflections within the holes of parts 142 and 143 of a hole in the light emanating from part I4j5 not only through the transparent one Part 145 is sent out, but also through the transparent part 146 into the corresponding hole in the part 142 and thus also through the part 144. Conversely, light emanating from a hole in the part 142 can pass through the transparent part 145 can be viewed. Farther Due to the internal reflections within the holes, color fidelity is achieved over large viewing angles, because the light emanating from the rear cells after reflections on the inner surfaces of the front cells large angle is visible.

If, for example, an electrical discharge is maintained in the hole 150 and not an electrical one during operation Discharge taking place in hole 151 is red light through both parts 144 and 145 at the location of the holes and 151 visible. Conversely, if an electrical discharge is maintained in the hole 151 and none electrical discharge takes place in the hole 150, the color blue can be seen at this point in the illustration. if Electric discharges in both holes 150 and 151 upright are obtained, the red and blue teas in the holes ißö and 151 appear as pink.

109850/1038

It will be understood that, by appropriate selection of ionizable gases, a variety of colors can be selectively transmitted through Indicator according to the invention can be displayed.

In Fig. 6 is the sixth embodiment of a display device shown. This display device comprises a single hollow cathode light source. The gas-tight Enclosure 160 is formed by a hollow cathode 16 and a transparent part 162 which is hermetically sealed is sealed with the hollow cathode oil. The transparent part 162 can be made of glass. The transparent one Portion 162 can be sealed to cathode portion 161 in any conventional manner known in the vacuum tube art be. An electrically conductive anode I6j5 is on the inner surface of the part I62. The anode 165 can be any suitable clear one, for example Metal film on the inner surface of the Partly 162 is depressed. The envelope I60 can be evacuated with the aid of a conventional filling tube 164 and with it be filled with an ionizable gas at reduced pressure. Each connected to the cathode Ιοί and the anode 165 Lines I65 or 166 can be used to apply suitable potentials to the light source.

During operation, an electrical discharge can occur within the Hole 167 is selectively ignited by applying suitable ignition and extinguishing potentials between lines 165 and 166 or deleted.

A plurality of individual hollow cathode light sources of the type shown in FIG. 6 can be used in combination to form a variety of display arrangements.

109850/1038

It can be seen that those used in connection with the Pig. I. to 4 indicators include constructive features that result in insensitive elements that are economical are to be produced.

It is also clear that the indicators described in connection with FIGS. 1 and 2 are particularly suitable for applications are suitable where a relatively small number of hollow cathode light cells is required is, for example in the case of an alphanumeric read-out indicator. Because every light cell is the indicator according to the Fig. 1 and 2 requires a separate line for their control, a representation with a large number should of light cells and the resulting large number of cables in unbearable form can be unwieldy.

The indicators shown in Figures 3 and 4 are particular suitable for applications where a large number of light cells is required. Such applications occur, for example, in computer-controlled information display fields and in commercial outdoor advertising displays on. Because the cells of the indicators shown in Figs. J5 and 4 by a coordinate selection technique is a smaller number in relation to the number of cells in the display of lines required.

It is clear that known hollow cathode Lich.tque.llen in many cases are constructed with anodes which are an extended distance from the cathode and thus give rise to the possibility of columnar discharges through the gas. Such discharges are for those discussed above Applications for which the present invention is intended are unsuitable because such sources

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lesser resolution and problems due to a harmful ^ as a result induced atomization. In the present invention, the anodes are near the Holes of the hollow cathodes arranged in such a proximity that column discharges are excluded. It can only cathode discharge occurs in the present invention. The discharges are due to the Geometry of the cells used is essentially limited to the interior of the holes in the cathodes, thereby creating an outstanding display resolution compared to known devices, as they were explained above, results.

In addition, atomization problems related to known devices are reduced because the atomized cathodic / the material is substantially confined to the cathode holes and symmetrical about the inner surfaces of the cathode holes is distributed. This results in a long-lasting light Illustration, because the glass observation plate is not easily darkened by the atomized cathode metal becomes, as is the case with known devices. In addition, the short circuit problem between the electrodes due to sputtered cathode material, in particular because the anode electrodes are arranged outside the cathode holes.

Because in the present invention, all of the glow discharges sustained within the cathode holes Contribute to the visible representation, results in contrast to known pre-designs, in which the glow charges can be viewed through narrow openings, a significantly greater light output efficiency of the invention Device in relation to such known devices.

109850/1038 claims;

Claims (1)

Claims; 1. Gas discharge display device, characterized by cathode means (11) with a number of hollow cathode parts (16) which are arranged in a predetermined pattern at a distance from the Cathode means (11) located close to but outside the hollow parts (16) for reducing short circuits anode means (25) arranged between the electrodes due to sputtering, gas-tight, which are hollow Parts (16) and the anode means (26) together with one encapsulation means including ionizable gas (24, 26) with a transparent part (26) for viewing the hollow cathode parts (16), and through in the anode and cathode means (11, 25) included connecting means (20, 27), which for a selective application of suitable potentials between the anode and cathode means (11, 25) for generating electrical discharges in selected hollow cathode parts (16) can be connected to an electrical potential source (22), the anode means (25) in such a way are arranged close to the hollow parts (16) and the hollow parts (16) have such a depth that only substantially limited to these hollow parts (16) cathode glow discharges can occur, whereby sputtered cathode material is essentially limited to the inner surfaces of the hollow parts (16) and sharply delineated Glow discharges are defined. 2. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the potentials are positive 109850/1033 ~ ³⁰ ~ 2117319 Represent potentials at the anode means (25) with respect to the cathode means (11). 5. Apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized characterized in that the cathode means (11) comprise a first dielectric member (11) having a number of holes (12) arranged therein in a predetermined pattern and a number of electrically conductive hollow cathodes (l6) with the hollow parts (17) include therein and that ^ the cathodes. (16) each in the holes (12) in the first 'Dielectric part (11) are arranged. 4. Apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that a second part (26) is provided is, dad with the first dielectric part (11) is tightly connected and thereby forms the enveloping means. 5. Apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that the second part by a transparent dielectric member (26) for viewing the cathodes (16) is formed and that the anode means ) a clear electrically conductive, on a surface of the permeable dielectric part (26) Comprise film (25) located within the wrapping means (24, 26). 6. Apparatus according to claim 5, 4 or 5 # thereby characterized in that the cathodes each have electrically conductive rods (l6) with respective ones formed therein Include axial holes (17). 7 · Device according to claim 6, characterized / that the L3ehers (12) in the first 1098S0 / 1038 dielectric part (11) extends through this part extend and that the rods (16) are hermetically sealed in the holes (12), whereby parts thereof on the outer surface the wrapping means are exposed to provide electrical connections and effective cooling can. 8. Apparatus according to claim 6 or ¹ J, characterized in that a positive electrical potential source (22) sufficient to ignite electrical discharges through the ionizable gas and the connecting means (20, 27) with the electrical potential source (22) connecting addressing means ( 33) for applying the positive potential to the electrically conductive film (25) with respect to selected bars of the number of bars (l6) provided eHsfcd, whereby electrical discharges / discharges are caused in selected holes (12) of the bars (l6). 9. Apparatus according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that one (31) of the Rods (16) form the sealed filling tube for the enveloping means (24, 26). 10. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that the cathode means (11) an electrically conductive cathode part (41). having a number of holes arranged therein in a predetermined pattern and in that the anode means (25) comprise a number of electrical conductors arranged in the vicinity of the holes (45) include. 11 · Device according to claim 10, characterized characterized in that a dielectric part 109850/1038 ^{# / t} (43) is tightly connected to the cathode part (41) and the Forms coating agent. 12. The device according to claim 11, characterized in that the dielectric part (43) is a transparent part for viewing the cathode part (4l) and that the electrical conductors are respective electrically conductive strips (430 arranged on the surface of the dielectric part (430)). 45) comprise W that the strips (45) are located within the enclosure means. IJ. Device according to claim 12, characterized in that the strips (45) along their respective surface with a diefcfefefcfciechen Material (51) wit the exception of those adjacent to the holes Parts are covered. 14. Apparatus according to claim 12 or 13, characterized gekennz eichnet that a positive electrical potential source, the electrical ignition t discharges through the ionizable gas is sufficient, is provided, and that the connecting means (42, 50) with the addressing means (33) connecting electrical potential source (48) for applying a positive potential selected strips of the number of strips (45) are provided in relation to the conductive cathode member (4l), whereby electrical discharges are caused in selected holes of the cathode part (41). 15 · Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the cathode means (11) a first dielectric part (6l) with a number of in 10985071038 a matrix of rows and columns arranged holes and that a number of electrically conductive Hollow cathodes (92) are provided with respective hollow parts therein, the cathodes (92) in the holes in the first dielectric part (61) are arranged. 16. Apparatus according to claim 15 * characterized in that the anode means have a number of first electrical conductors (76, 77, 78, 79 * 80), each near the hollow parts of a respective one Columns of cathodes (92) are arranged, and that the cathode means a number of electrical series conductors (64, 65, 66, 67, 68) each connecting the cathodes (92) of a respective row. 17 · Device according to claim 16, characterized in that a second dielectric Part (75) with the first dielectric part (61) tight is connected and forms the wrapping means. 18. Apparatus according to claim 17 * characterized in that the second dielectric Part comprises a transparent part (73) for viewing the cathodes (92), and that the first electrical conductors (76, 77, 78, 79, 80) respective electrically conductive ones, on the surface (8>) of the transparent electrical Part (73) comprising strips arranged such that the strips are located within the wrapping means. 19. Device according to claim 18, characterized in that the cathodes (92) are electrically comprise conductive rods with axial holes formed therein. 109850/1038 - 34 - 2117918 20. The device according to claim 19, characterized / that the holes (93) are in the first dielectric part (6l) extend therethrough so that the rods are hermetically sealed in these holes . (93) are inserted so that parts thereof on the outer surface the covering means are exposed and that the number of electrical series conductors (64, 65, 66, 67, 68) with the exposed parts is connected. 21. Apparatus according to claim 19 or 2B, characterized in that means for applying of a positive potential related to all strips on all row conductors (64, 65, 66, 67, 68) is provided to maintain electrical discharges sufficient by the ionizable gas that means for increasing the potential on a selected strip of the conductive strips (76, 77, 78, 79, 80) and to reduce of the potential on a selected row conductor (64, 65, 66, 67, 68) are provided, whereby between These a potential is generated, which for the ignition of an electrical discharge in the point of intersection with the W selected conductor (64, 65, 66, 67, 68) associated hole is ignited, and that means for reducing the potential on a selected one of the conductive strips (76, 77, 78, 79, 80) and increasing the potential a selected one of the row conductors (64, 65, 66, 67, 68) are provided thereby establishing a potential therebetween sufficient to cancel any electrical discharge sustained in the hole (93) associated with the intersection of the selected conductors is obtained. 109850/1039 22. The device according to claim 20 or 21, da- ■ characterized in that one (75) of the rods (92) is the sealed fill tube for the wrapping means includes. 23. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that the cathode means a Number of electrically conductive cathode parts (102, 103, 104, 105, 106) each with a row of holes arranged therein include that the holes are aligned to form gap gaps and that the anode means are a number of first electrical conductors (123 * 124, 125, 126, 1277, each in the vicinity of a respective Column of these holes are arranged. 24. The device according to claim 23, characterized in that the cathode parts (102 to 106) are tightly connected to one another, with electrical Isolatorraittel (115, 116, 117, H8) between them are arranged. 25. The device according to claim 24, characterized in that further a dielectric Parts (122) provided with the cathode parts (102 to 106) is tightly connected and forms the wrapping means. 26. The device according to claim 25, characterized in that the dielectric part (122) comprises a transparent part for viewing the cathode parts (102 to 106), and that the first electrical Conductors each include electrically conductive strips (123 to 127) which are on the surface of the through 109850/1038 visible part (122) are arranged such that the strips (I23) to 127) within the envelope means are located. 27. The device according to claim 26, characterized in that each of the cathode parts (102-106) a land - (114) between each pair of Includes adjacent holes arranged therein and that these webs (114) and the electrical insulator means (115 to 118) extend to the surface of the transparent part (122) within the wrapping means thereby forming a barrier around each of the holes. 28. Apparatus according to claim 26 or 27, characterized characterized in that means for applying an electrical discharge through the ionizable gas to all strips (123 to I27) with a sufficient positive potential. towards all Cathode parts (102 to 106) - means for increasing the potential on a selected strip of said strips (I23 to 127) and to reduce the potential on one selected cathode part of these cathode parts (102 to 106), creating a potential between the selected Stripe and the selected cathode part is caused, which is responsible for igniting an electrical discharge in the arranged therein and associated with the selected strip Hole is sufficient, -and means to reduce the / Potential on a selected one of the strips (123 to 127) and to increase the potential on one of the method parts (102 to IO6) are provided, whereby a potential between the selected strip and 3 »m selected cathode part is caused, which is sufficient to any in the arranged therein and upright hole facing the selected strip 1098S0 / 1038 * ^A extinguishing sustained electrical discharge. 29 * Device according to claim 15, characterized characterized in that the anode means (144), the cathode means (142), the connecting means and the enveloping means including the ionizable gas by further anode means (145), cathode means (143), connection means and another one of the first mentioned ionizable gas encapsulating agents including various ionizable gas are supplemented, wherein the two dielectric parts (142, 143) through a transparent one Separating part (146) are separated and are arranged relative to one another in such a way that the holes (150} 151) are aligned in register so that the discharge is visible in any single hole and that the discharges can be superimposed in two aligned holes. 30. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by an electrically conductive cathode ( ^l l6l) with a hollow part (I67) arranged therein, an electrically conductive one at a distance from the cathode (I61) and in the vicinity of the hollow part ( 167) arranged AnoaBe (I63), a transparent, hermetically tightly connected to the cathode (I61) and the gas-tight, the hollow part (I67) and the anode (163) with an ionizable gas enclosing cover (162) and through with connecting means (165 to 166) connectable to an electrical potential source for the selective application of a suitable potential between the anode (I63) and the cathode (16l) for generating an electrical discharge in the hollow part (I67). 109850/1038 2117319 31. The device according to claim 30, characterized characterized in that the anode has a transparent electrically conductive and on the surface the transparent part (162). so arranged film (163) includes that the film (I63) is within the envelope. 32. Device according to claim 30 or 31, there- ™ characterized by that the potential a positive potential at the anode (I63) compared to the Cathode (16I) is sufficient to ignite an electrical discharge by the ionizable gas. 33. Device according to one of claims 30 to 32, characterized in that the Anode (163) is in such proximity to the hollow part (I67) that only cathode glow discharges can occur, essentially on the hollow Part ($ l6) are limited. 109850/1038