HK1087823A1 - Floor display system with variable image orientation - Google Patents

Abstract

Embodiments of the present invention relate to a floor display system with variable image orientation. Embodiments may further relate to networked data distribution and management; interactivity; image-enhancing optics; controlled audio; a protective covering; an anti-slip feature; fragrance technology; theft prevention; deployment in a track-and-trench system; specialized positioning mechanisms; and lightweight, flexible implementations.

Description

Floor display system with variable image orientation

Cross Reference to Related Applications

This application claims the benefit of the following identified U.S. provisional applications under the paris convention: application serial No. 60/418626, filed on 12/10/2002; application serial No. 60/428387, filed on 11/19/2002; and application serial No. 60/429044, filed on 11/22/2002. Further, the present application is a continuation-in-part application having application number 10/438923 filed on 16/5/2003. Application serial No. 10/438923 is a partial continuation of co-pending application serial No. 10/285639 filed on 11/1/2002, which is in turn a continuation of application serial No. 10/137357 filed on 5/3/2002 and issued as U.S. patent No. 6507285 on 14/1/2003. Application serial No. 10/137357 is a continuation of application serial No. 09/767846 filed on 24/1/2001 and granted as U.S. patent No. 6417778 on 9/7/2002. Application Ser. No. 09/767846 is a continuation of the now-abandoned application Ser. No. 09/418752 filed on 15/10/1999. Application serial No. 09/418752 was filed on 5/4/1999 and was filed on 24/4/2001 as part of the continuation of application serial No. 09/304051 granted to U.S. patent No. 6219876. Each of the above applications is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.

Background

Advertising and other kinds of messaging are typically provided in a form that takes a "vertical space": i.e. billboards, walls, hanging displays, etc. On the other hand, one of the most promising but largely overlooked spaces for advertising and messaging is the terrestrial space, which can be described as "horizontal space".

Many efforts have been made to use floor space for advertising. Adhesive (i.e., "stick-on") floor decals are known. Such appliques may include color images and convey some advertising message, such as "drink cola". However, such advertising media are limited by the fact that: messages are static and not easily changed. On the other hand, U.S. patent 6417778, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, describes a modifiable electronic display associated with the floor that facilitates image and text changes, allowing advertising messages to be quickly adapted and effectively targeted to the intended customer.

However, difficulties remain in effectively and effectively communicating to the audience through visual advertising or messaging displayed on or above the ground. Among these challenges is how to orient the displayed content for viewing and understanding. In contrast, the difficulties associated with image orientation in vertical space are generally not present. For example, when someone watches a computer monitor or television, the displayed image is almost always "right side up" from the viewer's perspective, since people are most often oriented with their feet on the ground and their head in the air. Thus, also, the images in advertising and messaging in vertical spaces are almost always right side up with respect to the viewer.

On the other hand, when the image is in a horizontal space, a problem may occur in relation to the orientation of the image. For example, an image on and coplanar with the ground may be approached or viewed from any number of different directions. The image may be right side up, upside down, sideways, or skewed in any direction from the perspective of the viewer, depending on the direction of approach of the viewer. More specifically, assume that the image on the ground is oriented for easy viewing and understanding by north-walking viewers (e.g., right side up relative to these viewers). This image is inverted for a southbound audience and is therefore also extremely difficult to understand. Likewise, assume that the image on the ground is oriented to face upward for a westward audience-the same image is inverted for an eastward audience.

These considerations may be further complicated by observing how differences in language affect the presentation of the image. For example, while English text is read in left-to-right, top-to-bottom order, in Asian languages such as Japanese, text is read top-to-bottom in columns in a left-to-right progression of columns. In israel, text is read from right to left.

Brief description of the drawings

FIGS. 1 and 2A-2D illustrate a floor display system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 3, 4, 5A-5C, 6A-6B, and 7 illustrate variable image orientations according to embodiments of the present invention;

8A-8D illustrate various aspects of configuring a floor display system with selected content in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate various interactivity devices that may be associated with a floor display system according to embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 11 shows a layer of material comprising thin diffractive prisms according to an embodiment of the present invention;

12A and 12B illustrate a shield according to an embodiment of the invention;

fig. 13A and 13B show a protective sheet according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrate an alarm system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 16-18 illustrate the components and assembly of a floor display system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

19A-19D illustrate a track and groove system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 20A-20E illustrate a positioning mechanism system according to an embodiment of the present invention; and

fig. 21A-21C illustrate a lightweight flexible electronic display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed Description

Embodiments of the present invention relate to floor display systems having variable image orientation, among other features. More specifically, the images displayed by the floor display system may be oriented and/or reoriented according to the perspective of the viewer in order to make the images easier to view and understand. To orient and/or reorient the image, the image may be rotated or otherwise moved or shifted.

The floor display system may be located in a public place, such as a commercial establishment or other public building, and is configured to electronically display any content that may be modified, such as advertising or other informational content. For example, a floor display system may be positioned near a shelf where products for sale are stored and display advertising and promotional content related to the products. In addition to variable image orientation, the floor display system may include the following features: networked data distribution and management; interactivity; image enhancing optics; controlled audio; a protective cover; anti-skid characteristics; an aroma technique; theft prevention; deployed in rail and trench systems; a special positioning mechanism; and a lightweight flexible implementation. These and other aspects of embodiments of the invention are discussed in more detail below.

As noted above, u.s.6417778 discloses a system for electronically communicating information via a floor display. More specifically, the floor display may incorporate a modifiable electronic display surface, such as a liquid crystal display. A display may be connected to the computer and the computer-generated image may be displayed on the display. Thus, the image displayed on the display may be modified by generating a different computer image and displaying that computer image on the display. The display may be associated with, e.g. included in a recess of, the base portion of the floor covering, or may be included in the underside of the embedded portion of the floor covering facing upwards. Alternatively, the display may be formed integrally with either the base portion or the embedded portion. The modifiable display can utilize a plurality of different graphics that can be displayed on the display in any of a variety of ways. For example, the graphic may be displayed in a generally fixed position on the display, or may be scrolled across the display, displaying multiple graphics, either individually or in combination, using two exemplary methods.

Other alternatives for modifying the graphics displayed on the floor covering include using light emitting polymers to create and thus change the graphics. The light emitting polymer may be coated onto, attached to, or woven into the floor covering. The light emitting polymer may be used in any part of the floor covering, such as the base portion or the embedded portion, or any other part of the different embodiments of the floor covering. Luminescent polymers are known and described in U.S. patents 5945502, 5869350, and 5571626, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

Other options for the display are to use electronic ink or conductive paper. Conductive paper is available from Xerox and is described in U.S. patents 5723204, 5604027, 4126854 and 4143103, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Conductive paper employs thousands of small charged beads called Gyricon, each about the width of a hair, to create a pixel. The two-tone beads are embedded in a liquid-filled plastic sheet that forms the surface of the paper. Each half-black and half-white bead is constantly rotated by the electric field. Whether the beads are black or white side up determines the image. Since there is no need to refresh the image, and since the screen is not backlit, the conductive paper uses only a fraction of the power used by conventional electronic displays. Electromagnetic pens and printer-like devices can be used to bring an image onto paper.

Electronic Ink is available from E Ink Corp (address: 45Spinelli PI., Cambridge, MA 02138). The electronic ink employs a microencapsulated micromechanical display system. Tiny microcapsules are captured between two plastic sheets to create pixels. Alternatively, the microcapsules may be sprayed onto the surface. The result is a flexible display material. The microcapsules are transparent and comprise a mixture of black ink and white pigment platelets. The charge passes through the microcapsules. Depending on the electrostatic charge, the pigment platelets float on top of each microcapsule or stay at the bottom. When the pigment platelets float on top, the surface appears white. When they rest at the bottom and thus under the ink, the surface appears black. Each of the two states is stable: black or white. A transparent electromagnetic grid overlying the sheet surface controls the shape of the image. The display may be connected wirelessly to, for example, a computer and thus to the world wide web, for example, using the Motorola paging system. If multiple displays are used, the text on all displays can be changed simultaneously through the web page by a single editor.

According to embodiments of the present invention, additional or alternative techniques to those described above may be used to implement a floor display system. "floor" herein means a floor, or any surface thereof, including concrete, asphalt, carpet, wood, linoleum, tile, rubber, vinyl, and the like. A floor display system 100 according to an embodiment of the invention is shown in fig. 1. The floor display system 100 includes an electronic display device 101 associated with a floor covering 102. More specifically, the display device 101 may be at least partially connected to or supported by or incorporated into or otherwise associated with the floor covering 102. The floor covering 102 and associated electronic display device 101 may take many structural forms and may be constructed from a variety of materials and are not limited to the specific forms described herein. In an embodiment, the floor covering 102 and the electronic display device 101 are designed for use where there is foot or other (e.g., wheeled shopping cart) traffic. Thus, the floor covering and electronic display device may be sturdy and durable enough that they can be repeatedly stepped on, walked on, or have a wheeled shopping cart or other rolling or sliding object pass over them with little adverse effect on the floor covering and display device. For example, the electronic display device may have a sturdy protective cover that is transparent or translucent to allow viewing of the electronic display device therethrough, as well as to protect the electronic display device from damage associated with foot traffic or other traffic, such as from scratches, cracks, chipping, tearing, or environmental dirt. The floor covering 102 may be fixed to the floor or may be portable so that it may be easily moved to different locations.

Fig. 2A and 2B are a top or plan view and a side or elevation view, respectively, of the floor covering 102. As shown in fig. 2A and 2B, the floor covering 102 may include at least one inclined surface. More specifically, the floor covering 102 may include a plurality of inclined surfaces 212, 213, 214, and 215 that slope downward and away from the top surface 200 (which, as noted above, may be the surface of the enclosure of the display device 101) such that the entire perimeter of the floor covering presents an inclined surface to a person approaching the floor covering. Such a construction may make the floor covering easier to pass by a person walking on the floor covering or by a wheeled shopping cart when the floor covering is laid in the aisles of a commercial establishment. According to an embodiment, at least a portion of the display device 101 may be disposed coplanar with one or more inclined surfaces of the floor covering. This may make the display of the display device easier to view for people at a distance or approaching the floor covering, as the display is slightly elevated.

Fig. 2C and 2D illustrate that embodiments of the present invention may also include a flexible or compressible border member 220. The edge frame member 220 may be disposed to abut edges of the inclined surfaces 212, 213, 214, and 215. For example, as shown in the cross-sectional view of fig. 2D, the edge frame member 220 may abut an edge 221 of the inclined surface 215. By providing a yielding surface, the framing members may allow minor abrupt changes from the ground to the floor covering 102 to be perceived by a person passing over the floor covering. By way of example only, the edge frame member may be made of, for example, metal, wood, plastic, natural rubber, silicone rubber, foam rubber, or urethane rubber.

Referring now to fig. 1, an electronic display device 101 associated with a floor covering 102 may be configured to electronically display graphical images and alphanumeric data in a static (no movement or change) or dynamic (e.g., scrolling or otherwise moving or changing) format. More specifically, the electronic display device 101 may be coupled to the controller 103 by wired or wireless means and may be modified via the controller 103 to display any content selected by the user. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, an electronic display device 101 may be coupled to a controller 103 via display driver circuitry, such as a video graphics adapter card 105. The controller 103 may comprise any kind of electronic logic circuit: such as a general purpose microprocessor configurable in software or an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit). The driver 105 of the electronic display device may be integrated with the controller 103 or built into an ASIC. The controller may also be in the form of a single board computer having a processor and memory and having one or more display driver circuits built into the board, and a wireless component for communicating with the outside or loading data into memory.

The controller may be coupled to a storage medium 104, which may be any form of medium suitable for storing digital data, including RAM (random access memory), ROM (read only memory), flash or other non-volatile solid-state electronic memory, EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), or magnetic and/or optical disk memory. The storage medium 104 may store video content such as control software run by the controller 103 and options displayed on the electronic display 101 under control of the control software. A user interface (not shown), such as a personal computer having a display monitor and keyboard, may be coupled to the controller to enable configuration of the controller with specific user inputs, such as specific control routines, to produce specific display and/or audio outputs. An audio device 111, such as a speaker, may also be coupled to the controller 103 via the sound card 110. The audio device 111 may output audio contents of the options stored in the storage medium 104 under the control of the controller 103. The components of the floor display system 100 may be powered by a power supply 114. The floor display system may also include a sensing device 113 to provide various interactive applications of the floor display system, as described in more detail below. The sensing device 113 may be coupled to the controller 103 and provide signals thereto. The connection of the sensing device to the controller may be wired or wireless.

Data may be stored in the storage medium 104 using, for example, a data port 106 coupled to a common system bus. By way of example only, the bus may be a USB (universal serial bus). The floor display system may also include a wireless port 107, for example, implemented using a wireless WAN/LAN card. Through the wireless port 107, the floor display system 100 may be coupled to and communicate with a network 125. The network may be any kind of network, including a Wide Area Network (WAN) such as the Internet or a Local Area Network (LAN) including, for example, other floor display systems. Through the network 125, the floor display system 100 may be coupled to a server computer 108 of the network, such as via a wireless communication device 112. Server computer 108 may be coupled to database 109. The database 109 may store information related to the operation of the floor display system 100. For example, the database may contain video and audio content or control software that may be downloaded into the storage media 104 of the floor display system. Accordingly, the floor display system 100 may be remotely controllable. However, the floor display system 100 need not be networked and may be controlled locally by, for example, downloading content and control software locally via the data port 106. Additionally, although the wireless communication method and system are shown in fig. 1, a wired system may be used or may be combined with a wireless system.

In addition to the foregoing, display technologies that can be used in embodiments of the present invention include: liquid Crystal Displays (LCDs), Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs), Organic Light Emitting Diodes (OLEDs), Electroluminescent (EL) displays, Plasma Display Panels (PDPs), Field Emission Displays (FEDs) including printable field emitters, ferroelectric displays, Polymer Light Emitting Diodes (PLEDs), Light Emitting Polymers (LEPs), electronic paper, and luminescent ceramics or other luminescent inorganic materials. Other display technologies that may be used in embodiments include fiber optic technologies, where remote images are electronically formed and transmitted to a fiber optic array or bundle using a light guiding source. The remote image light source may be internal or external to the floor covering. Other contemplated display technologies include holographic displays. In this technique, a white light or laser hologram may be generated inside or outside the floor covering 102 and focused by a lens, which may be a fresnel lens, so that it may be seen by a person viewing the display 101 at an acute angle.

As described above, the electronic display device 101 is capable of displaying at least alphanumeric data and graphical images. The content may include alphanumeric data alone, graphic images (e.g., pictures) alone, or a combination of both, and may be static or moving or both, depending on the video content selected. The moving alphanumeric data and images may be scrolled, for example. The alphanumeric data and the graphic images may be black and white or full color. Further, the display device 101 may include more than one different display: that is, the display area of the display device may be partitioned for content. For example, the display area may include two or more different "windows," each displaying different content. For example in "split screen" television, and by includingSuch partitioning of displays is well known for the widespread use of various graphics software applications, including ubiquitous "Windows" software.

Various digital video file formats may be used to generate images on the electronic display device 101, including MPEG (motion Picture experts group), DVD (digital versatile disc) or digital video disc, and Flash. Furthermore, conventional video content used in, for example, a web television, may be converted to digital video content for display on the electronic display device 101 according to embodiments of the present invention. One such conversion process involves extracting traditional NTSC (national television systems committee) video from videotape and capturing it in a computer via a video capture card. An example of such a card is a Targa 2000RTX board. Once captured, the video may be compressed into a file having a format that may be played by the digital device. For example, the file may be stored in an MPEG 1 or MPEG 2 format.

Depending on the embodiment, the components of the floor display system 100 as described above may be completely contained within the floor covering 102, completely outside the floor covering 102, or some components may be inside the floor covering 102 while other components are outside.

Variable image orientation

FIG. 3 illustrates a floor display system with variable image orientation according to an embodiment of the present invention. "image" means anything, including pictures, designs, text, numbers, etc., that can be visually represented, alone or in any combination, in either a static or dynamic format, or a combination thereof. In FIG. 3, the floor display system 100 is shown with versions 320, 335 of the same image, where each version is oriented as viewed from a respective different direction. More specifically, image 335 may be completely "right side up" from the perspective of the first viewer, while image 320 may be completely "upside down" from the perspective of the first viewer. On the other hand, from the perspective of the second viewer, image 335 may be completely "upside down" and image 320 may be completely "right side up". In the floor display system shown in FIG. 3, the electronic display device 101 of the system may include a plurality of individual display modules or panels 310, 315, 325, 330 associated with the floor covering 102. Each panel may incorporate any of the above display technologies individually. Two or more panels may be configured to display a composite image: for example, the corresponding displays on panels 325 and 330 constitute composite image 335. Further, each of the independent panels may be configured to independently display an image. "independently" in this context means not as an integral part of the composite image. Further, each panel may be configured to display an image having a different orientation than the image on the other panel.

In some applications it may be advantageous for the viewer to see only the images of the individual panels directly in front of him. In such applications, certain standard LCD displays with very small viewing angles may be very suitable. That is, by properly orienting the display panels 310, 315, 325, 330 incorporating such standard LCD technology, it is possible to make the corresponding display substantially visible when viewed from one direction and substantially invisible when viewed from another direction. For example, depending on the LCD technology used, a viewer approaching or standing near panel edge 327 may clearly see the images on panels 310 and 315, but not on panels 325 and 330. Likewise, a viewer approaching or standing near panel edge 329 may clearly see the images on panels 325 and 330, but not on panels 310 and 315. Selectively orienting the panels in this manner prevents a viewer approaching the floor display system from seeing an image that is inverted or tilted to him and thus endeavouring to identify the condition of the image.

Figure 4 shows another possible application of the multi-panel display described above. As shown in FIG. 4, each panel may be configured to display an image independently of the other panels (as opposed to using two or more panels to form a composite image). In the example of FIG. 4, each panel 310, 315, 325, 330 represents a respective different complete image 410, 415, 425, 430, wherein each image has a different orientation than at least one of the other images. For example, the respective orientations of the images may be selected to best suit viewing from respective different directions. Such a feature may be used, for example, to display different messages for people approaching from respective different directions. Generally, the embodiments of the invention as shown in fig. 3 and 4 may be particularly advantageous when provided in locations where people mainly walk in two opposite directions to each other, e.g. at an aisle of a grocery store, at the top or bottom of a flight of stairs or at an entrance/exit passage etc. Note that the multi-panel display according to the embodiment of the present invention is not limited to four panels; more or less panels are possible.

Other alternatives according to embodiments of the present invention are shown in fig. 5A-5C. As shown in fig. 5A-5C, the floor display system 100 can include an electronically rotatable and translatable (e.g., movable or displaceable) image 520. The floor display system may also include a plurality of proximity detectors 530, 540, 550, 560, such as included in the sensing device 113. Based on the signal from the proximity detector, the rotatable and translatable image may be rotated and/or translated to a desired orientation for viewing by the viewer based on criteria such as proximity of the viewer to the floor display system.

More particularly, the proximity detectors 530, 540, 550, 560 may, for example, be mounted, affixed to, or otherwise associated with an edge of the floor covering 102. For example, proximity detectors 530, 540, 550, 560 may be associated with inclined surfaces 212, 213, 214, 215 of the floor covering, respectively. The proximity detector may be used to determine the orientation of a given image 520 at a given time based on the proximity of the viewer. For example, the proximity detector may be coupled to the controller 103 of the floor display system and send a signal to the controller. Based on the information in the signal received from the proximity detector, it may be determined by the controller that the first viewer 580 is closer to, for example, the proximity detector 550 than the second viewer 590 is to the proximity detector 540. The determination of the controller may be made, for example, by executing appropriate hardware and/or software algorithms. For example, under the conditions shown in fig. 5A, the controller may rotate and/or translate the image 520 such that it is right side up from the perspective of the viewer 580. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 5B, it may be determined from the input from the proximity detector that the viewer 590 is closer to the proximity detector 540 than the viewer 580 is to the proximity detector 550. Under these conditions, the image 520 may rotate and/or translate such that it is right side up from the perspective of the viewer 590. Also, as shown in fig. 5C, it may be determined from the input from the proximity detector that the viewer 595 is closer to the proximity detector 530 than the viewer 590 is to the proximity detector 540. Under these conditions, the image 520 may rotate and/or translate such that it is right side up from the perspective of the viewer 595.

Techniques for performing image rotation and/or translation as described above are known. For example, many currently available electronic display drivers (e.g., video graphics adapter card 105) and electronic display devices 101 support image rotation and/or translation using software specifically designed for such operations. As previously described, based on the input signals from the proximity detectors, the controller 103 may run decision software to implement, for example, a decision tree to determine which of a plurality of viewers is closest to the floor display system and which edge thereof. The controller may then run corresponding rotation and/or translation software to rotate and/or translate the displayed image accordingly. Note that image rotation and/or translation need not occur in the 90 degree increments shown in fig. 5A-5C; finer increments in rotation up to fractions of a degree are possible.

While image rotation and/or translation software is one possibility of implementation, another possibility could be to store the images in a number of different fixed orientations, and to select a given image from the stored images for display based on the proximity determination. Furthermore, proximity may not be the only basis for selecting a particular image orientation, other bases are possible. For example, the image may be configured to periodically cycle through a plurality of different orientations. If no viewer is sufficiently close or if no determination of proximity is made, then there may be a default orientation of the image. Embodiments of the present invention may also include a "screen saver" mode and start or stop video output based on human proximity.

The proximity detector may be implemented in various forms, including, for example: ultrasonic detectors, thermal detectors, motion detectors, IR (infrared) rangefinders, electronic eyes, cameras, Charge Coupled Devices (CCDs), or other imaging systems.

Also note that as shown in FIG. 5A, the outline 577 is intended to represent any portion of an electronically generated graphic or actual physical edge of the electronic display device 101 of the floor display system, which has a substantially circular shape, as opposed to the substantially square or rectangular shape shown in the previous figures. A substantially circular electronic display device according to embodiments of the present invention may be mechanically rotated to redirect an image based on signals from a proximity sensor. Fig. 6A and 6B, on the other hand, illustrate electronic (e.g., software driven) image rotation and/or translation, wherein the electronic display device of the floor display system includes a plurality of modules or panels in a substantially square or rectangular configuration as previously described.

Fig. 7 illustrates that proximity detection does not necessarily need to be performed by a proximity detector located in or on the floor covering 102. Rather, for example, the proximity detector may be disposed in, on, or otherwise associated with an object proximate to the floor display system 100. FIG. 7 illustrates proximity detectors 715, 720 and 730 positioned on a shelf 710 adjacent to the floor display system 100. Based on the signals received from the proximity detectors 715, 720, and 730, the controller 103 of the floor display system may determine which of the multiple viewers is closest and orient the rotatable/translatable image 720 accordingly. Such a determination may be made, for example, based on the known distance of the respective detector from the floor display system. The proximity detector may also be provided in the ceiling or suspended from the ceiling, for example on a rail.

Data distribution and management:

it is contemplated that floor display systems according to embodiments of the present invention may be deployed in many types of public buildings, including commercial establishments (e.g., markets, stores). Multiple floor display systems may be deployed in a single building. Multiple floor display systems may be used, for example, to inform sales and pricing conditions, provide product descriptions, direct customers to specific locations in a commercial establishment, and so forth. Accordingly, it may be advantageous to control the floor display system individually or in groups to produce specific video/audio outputs depending on its location. More specifically, the video/audio content output by a given floor display system may be related to nearby products, such as products on adjacent shelves, for example. Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention relate to configuring a floor display system to produce specific video/audio outputs, as described below.

Direct link download

Referring to fig. 8A, a user may locally configure the floor display system 100 by physically connecting a configuration device 800, such as a hand-held controller/storage device (CSD), to the floor display system 100. The connection may reach, for example, the data port 106 of the floor display system via a direct link 801, such as a cable link. The user may then download the selected video/audio content and/or control software from the device 800 to the storage media 104 of the floor display system. What data is downloaded to the floor display system may depend, for example, on where the floor display system is located, and thus on what content may be relevant. The downloaded video/audio content can be changed by downloading new video/audio content in the same way.

Local Area Network (LAN) download

Referring to FIG. 8B, a user may remotely configure the floor display system, for example, as follows: the user may connect the device 800 to a computer 108 (e.g., a web server, see fig. 1) in the building, which may be implemented wirelessly via an IRDA (infrared data association) or via a wired USB link, for example. The network server 108, in turn, may be connected to a plurality of floor display systems 100 in the building via wired or wireless connections (e.g., using LAN125 and ethernet). Video/audio content and/or control software may then be downloaded from the device 800 to the web server 108 and from the web server to each connected floor display system 100. The data downloaded to the first floor display system may be different from the data downloaded to the second floor display system depending, for example, on the respective locations of the first and second floor display systems. The apparatus 800 may be, for example, a CSD, a personal computer or a laptop computer, etc. Alternatively, the server 108 may be linked to a database 109 containing content and control software, and the user may direct the server 108 to download the content and/or control software from the database 109 to the floor display system.

Local area wireless download

Referring to FIG. 8C, according to embodiments of the present invention, the user need not be connected to a network server computer as described above. Rather, the user need only be in the vicinity of the plurality of floor display systems to be deployed, remotely deploying the floor display systems in a wireless manner up to 100 feet away. As shown in fig. 8C, a user may, for example, equip a device 800, such as a laptop computer or CSD, with a short-range wireless transmitter that may transmit wireless signals 802 to communicate with various floor display systems 100 in a commercial establishment via, for example, CDMA (code division multiple access) or other similar communication protocols. In this way, content and/or control software may be downloaded wirelessly to each floor display system without going through a network. Alternatively, the same short-range wireless transmission may be used to transmit the data to the network server 108, which may then distribute the data to each floor display system.

Wide Area Network (WAN) download

Referring to fig. 8D, telecommunications and configuration thereof with a plurality of different buildings, such as a plurality of floor display systems in a commercial establishment, is possible according to an embodiment of the present invention. This may be achieved, for example, using a WAN (wide area network) configuration. More particularly, as shown in fig. 8D, the central control location 803 may be linked to the LAN125 associated with each establishment via a wired or wireless connection to the internet or some other wired or wireless (e.g., satellite) WAN 804. Each LAN125, in turn, may be linked by wire or wirelessly to a plurality of floor display systems 100 disposed in an establishment. Video/audio content and/or control software may then be downloaded from the central control location 803 to the LANs, which may then transmit the video/audio content and/or control software to a plurality of floor display systems. As described above, each floor display system may have a unique identifier code assigned to it, as it may be desirable to have different video/audio outputs from the corresponding floor display systems in the same facility. This identifier code may be provided in a header of digital data corresponding to the video/audio content and/or control software for the particular floor display system. The header information may be used to ensure that each floor display system receives data for it.

Satellite network download

As a variation of the WAN download techniques described above, satellite network downloads may be used in situations where a wide area network is provided via a satellite constellation. Here, the satellite may broadcast the data point-to-multipoint to receivers (e.g., dish receivers) in the facilities that contain the terrestrial display system. The data can then be propagated via the LAN to, for example, a corresponding floor display system. Satellite systems such as Motorola's Iridium, Hughes' Direct TV, and Boeing Digital Cinema have demonstrated such capabilities.

Floor display linked to a point of sale (POS) system

The floor display system 100 according to embodiments of the present invention may be linked to a POS (point of sale) system of an establishment. The POS system may be used to collect information about customer preferences. Information relating to the effectiveness of particular advertising content to generate sales may be collected, for example, by correlating sales of a given item in an establishment with the timing of display of the given content on a floor display system. This may be accomplished, for example, by electronically contrasting them to the timing of particular advertisements displayed on the floor display system when a sales transaction occurs. To provide such scheduling information to the POS system, the floor display system may be directly connected to the POS system's computer or server. Alternatively, for example, the server computer of the LAN may control the scheduling of content on the various floor display systems of the establishment, as well as provide scheduling information to the server of the POS system so that it may be "real-time," i.e., contemporaneously, with the sales transaction. Alternatively, the scheduling information may be later associated with the sales record "offline".

Interactivity

Embodiments of floor display systems according to the present invention may include an interactive feature, as described below.

Request information

Embodiments of the present invention may include the ability to request information from a customer and record the requested information. An illustrative example is shown in fig. 9. As shown in fig. 9, a plurality of interactivity devices provided for interaction with a person may be coupled to the floor display system 100 via a wired or wireless connection (e.g., bluetooth). Interactive devices may include, for example: a voice input device 900 such as a microphone, a keyboard or numeric keypad 901 for entering alphanumeric data, a touch sensitive display 902, a card reader 903, a bar code scanner 905, and a coupon dispenser 907. Each device may be set at a comfortable level to speak or type in or otherwise manipulate. The floor display system 100 may include speech recognition software for performing a speech recognition process for a person speaking into the speech input device 900. The floor display system may also include a pressure sensor 909 below the top surface of the display area of the floor display system. The pressure sensor 909 may be implemented as a membrane contact switch, for example. Each of the aforementioned interactivity devices may be coupled to the controller 103 of the floor display system for sending signals to the controller. The controller may be programmed to perform a desired function based on the received signal.

The floor display system 100 and associated interactivity devices may be located, for example, at a convenient location in a commercial establishment. The floor display system 100 may generate information requests in a visual or audible manner to passing customers. The floor display system may generate a request when the proximity of a person is detected by the sensing device 113. In the information request, the floor display system may request, for example, customer opinions regarding pricing, product specifications, product preferences, coupons, etc., or any other kind of desired information. The floor display system may prompt the customer to reply, for example, by speaking into the voice input device 900, by typing information in the keyboard/numeric keypad 901, by pressing certain areas in the display of the touch sensitive screen 902, by stepping on a designated portion of the floor display system to record a response via pressure on the pressure sensor 909, or by any combination of these.

The floor display system 100 may record the customer response in a storage medium, such as storage medium 104. When sufficient responses have been collected, the information may be downloaded and analyzed, for example, by brand marketers, in order to determine customer preferences.

The floor display system 100 may also be configured to respond to a request by a person via visual or audio output, where the request is made by speaking or by inputting data using any of the aforementioned interactive devices (e.g., keyboard/numeric keypad 901, touch sensitive screen 902).

The card reader 903 may be used, for example, to obtain identity information from a customer. Such identity information may include, but is not limited to: name, age, shopping history, frequency of entering the store, most frequently purchased items, store credit card amounts, information relating to store discounts, etc. The identity information may be magnetically encoded in a card 904 readable by the card reader 903, for example. The card 904 may be, for example, a "smart" card. Smart cards (or electronic cards) are known devices that typically contain an embedded computer chip and are typically the size of a conventional credit or debit card.

A barcode scanner 905 may be used, for example, to enable a customer to scan coupons 906. In response, the floor display system may generate a visual and/or audio message related to the coupon. For example, the message may inform the customer that the coupon is still valid or doubles in value, etc. The customer may also be enabled to scan the product on the bar code scanner 905 and receive coupons accordingly. Coupons 908 may be printed or otherwise generated and distributed by coupon dispenser 907. The coupon dispenser 907 can include a counter to calculate how many coupons have been dispensed and for what products. This information may be recorded by the floor display system and used by marketers to assess customer responses to advertisements, prices, etc.

Displaying a photographic image of a person

Embodiments of the present invention may include an interactive device implemented as a camera to capture images of a person and make the images displayable on a floor display system. An illustrative example is shown in fig. 10. The camera 1000 may be mounted near the floor display system 100 on the floor 1050, for example on a shelf 1020. The camera 1000 may be configured to capture images of a person 1030 walking or standing near the ground display system. The image 1060 of the person may be incorporated into an advertisement 1070 that is displayed on a floor display system, for example. The image of the person may be displayed, for example, as a continuous motion video or as a still image. The "frame grabber" function of the camera may be used to create still images. The still image may be modified, for example, by image editing software, to convey some interesting message. For example, in the advertisement 1070 of FIG. 10, a beard of milk may be superimposed over a person's face.

Optical device

Techniques to enhance the visibility or visual effect of displays according to embodiments of the present invention include the use of prisms. Diffractive or Fresnel prisms are known and commercially available, for example under the trade name Reflexite^TMAnd (4) selling. Such diffractive prisms can be as thin as a few millimeters or even fractions of a millimeter. According to embodiments of the present invention, a thin material layer comprising diffractive prisms may be disposed on an electronic display device of a floor display system. The provision of such a diffractive prism on an electronic display device makes the corresponding display more visible, especially in a particular direction. Also, the floor display system may remain unobtrusive because the prism material is thin. FIG. 11 illustrates the provision of a material layer 1100 comprising thin diffractive prisms on the electronic display device 101 of the floor display system 100.

Audio frequency

Embodiments of the present invention may provide for careful control of the volume generated by the audio device 111 of a floor display system, particularly for the purpose of minimizing interference with visitors to a commercial establishment or other public building containing multiple floor display systems, for example. To this end, the volume and bandwidth of the sound output by the audio device may be controlled so as to limit the distance over which the sound travels. For example, lower frequency sound waves (e.g., less than about 200 to 300Hz) propagate farther with less attenuation than higher frequency sound waves. Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention may include a control mechanism, such as controller 103, running suitable software for controlling the audio output to include frequencies slightly above about 200 to 300Hz, and for controlling the amplitude so that the audio output is optimally perceived by persons within a predetermined range.

Embodiments may also include a proximity detector to provide a signal to make a decision as to what kind of audio output should be produced. For example, the proximity detector may detect when a person is within a predetermined distance from the floor display system and send a corresponding signal to a controller of the floor display system. The controller may start or stop audio output, control audio frequency and volume, etc., based on signals received from the proximity detector. The controllers of the respective floor display systems may also be linked to a central computer, as described above in connection with the various network configurations possible for the floor display systems. The central computer may control the audio output of the respective floor display systems, for example, to prevent floor display systems within a predetermined distance of each other from simultaneously producing audio output.

In embodiments, audio device 111 may also include a directional speaker, for example, coupled to or disposed near the floor covering. The directional loudspeaker may be pointed in a certain direction or directions that people are expected to approach. The proximity detector may detect from what direction a person is approaching and this information may be used by the controller to cause the corresponding directional speaker to produce an audio output.

It will be appreciated from the above discussion of audio control and the foregoing discussion of variable image orientation that embodiments of the present invention may provide control video and/or audio output based on human proximity. More specifically, the floor display system according to an embodiment of the present invention may start or stop video or audio output and adjust image orientation and audio output characteristics individually or in combination according to the proximity of a person.

Protective cover

As described above, embodiments of the present invention may include a rugged protective cover for an electronic display device. Further implementation details of such a shield are discussed below with reference to fig. 12A-12B, according to possible embodiments.

As shown in fig. 12A, by way of example only, the shield 1200 may include an extremely transparent member 1210 constructed of glass or rigid plastic. The protective cover may comprise a hard coating 1220 on the transparent member 1210, wherein the coating 1220 is for example a diamond-like coating, such as known hard dense carbon coatings, which have similar mechanical properties as diamond but are less expensive. Coating 1220 can also be formed from or include plastic or polymer coatings such as those well known in the art for coating plastic lenses. The protective cover may also include an anti-reflective coating 1230 over the hard coating 1220. The anti-reflective coating 1230 can include, for example, a multi-layer or organo-metal oxide or organic or polymeric coating having various refractive indices that reduce reflection as is known in the lens coating art. Although not shown, in some embodiments, an anti-reflective coating may be present on the bottom surface 1205 of the transparent member 1210. Coatings such as those described in the previous section can reduce glare and prevent scratching.

Fig. 12B shows an alternative embodiment in which the hard coating 1220 is omitted, with only the anti-reflective coating 1230 applied to the top surface of the transparent member 1210. Also, although not shown, in some embodiments, an anti-reflective coating may also be present on the bottom surface 1205 of the transparent member 1210.

Anti-skid

Embodiments of the present invention may also include a removable transparent protective sheet. The removable transparent protective sheet may include anti-slip features to help reduce the likelihood that a person will slip, for example, due to moisture or humidity, when he/she steps on the floor display system. Referring to fig. 13A, a removable transparent protective sheet 1300 may be disposed on the protective cover 1200. In addition to preventing damage (e.g., staining and scratching) to the protective cover 1200, the sheet 1300 may also have a slip-resistant surface, wherein slip resistance may be provided by particles such as grit or sand grains on or incorporated into the surface, by patterns, crevices or other discontinuities 1300.1 of any kind, by water-absorbing and/or water-dispersing materials in the sheet or any other material properties of the sheet that contribute to slip resistance, a slip-resistant coating on the surface, or any combination of the above. The sheet may cover the entire floor display system, including the electronic display device and the floor covering, or may cover only a portion thereof. The non-slip material may be distributed over the floor display system in strips, for example.

As shown in fig. 13B, an embodiment may include a plurality of protective sheets in a laminate form 1301, wherein the sheets are individually removable. When the top sheet of the stack becomes dirty, it can be removed and discarded to reveal the underlying clean sheet. According to still further alternatives, the non-slip protective sheet material may be in the form of a roll of continuous material 1302, wherein clean material is dispensed, for example, by a timing device or a dirt detection device.

Aroma technique

Embodiments of the present invention may include fragrance technology. For example, a laminated stack having a scent or fragrance sandwiched between each sheet may be provided in a dispenser used in conjunction with a floor display system. For example, the stacked sheet stack may be disposed on or near a floor display system, such as in a dispenser provided on a stand. Alternatively, a layer of transparent scented sheet may be provided over all or part of the floor display system, such as on the sloped surface of the floor covering. This feature may be particularly effective in marketing soaps, lotions, cosmetics, laundry detergents, fabric softeners, air fresheners, and many other products that utilize odor or fragrance as a primary feature.

Referring to fig. 14, in an alternative embodiment, the floor display system 100 may include an electromechanical fragrance dispenser 1400 that releases a burst of fragrance periodically or in conjunction with a given advertisement. For example, the dispenser 1400 may be coupled to or in or on the floor covering 102, or may be otherwise associated with a floor display system. Such dispensing devices have been developed using small piezoelectric actuators to make extremely small pumps that eject small amounts of stored fragrance. Additionally, MEMs (micro-electro-mechanical systems) have been developed for performing electromechanical pumping of liquids.

Anti-theft device

Embodiments of the present invention may provide theft protection, as described below.

Alarm system

A floor display system according to embodiments may include an alarm system configured to be activated when the floor display system is moved without authorization. Referring to fig. 15, the warning system may include an unauthorized movement detection device 1500 capable of detecting whether the floor display system is moved. For example, the apparatus 1500 may be coupled to or in or on the floor covering 102, or may be otherwise associated with the floor display system 100. The device may include, for example, an accelerometer or a mercury switch coupled to the controller 103. The device may signal the controller upon detecting a change in position of the floor display system. The controller may then determine whether an audible and/or visual alert should be generated. The warning may include, for example, sounding a siren or the like, and/or causing a message such as "warning" or "theft" to flash on a display device. A switch or software setting may be used to deactivate the alarm system so that the floor display system may be moved without generating an alarm.

Electric pulse

The floor display system according to an alternative embodiment may comprise an alarm system comprising means capable of detecting whether the floor display system is moved, as described above. However, instead of or in addition to generating an alarm, the alarm system may be configured to emit an electrical pulse when the floor display system is not authorized to be moved. Thus, referring to FIG. 15, the floor display system 100 may include an electrical pulse generator 1501. For example, the electrical pulse generator may be connected to or in or on the floor covering 102, or may be otherwise associated with a floor display system. The electrical pulse generator 1501 may generate electrical pulses that may enable unauthorized processors of the floor display system to refrain from further processing of the floor display system. A switch or software setting may be used to stop the electrical pulse generator so that the floor display system can be moved without generating pulses.

Construction and assembly

FIG. 16 illustrates details of a possible implementation of an embodiment of the invention. As shown in fig. 16, the floor covering 102 of the floor display system 100 may include four electronic inverters 1620, 1630, 1640, 1650 for providing power to drive backlight illumination on each of the four LCD displays of a four panel electronic display device as described above with reference to fig. 3. Power may be provided via cable 1660. A controller, such as controller 103, may be configured to be small or thin enough to remain within the bezel of the floor covering 102 when other components are added, thereby forming a more complete assembly, as described below.

Fig. 17 is an exploded view of the floor display system 100. Base assembly 1710 may be configured to receive and support wiring member 1720, including four inverters 1620, 1630, 1640, 1650, and cable 1660 as described above. Structure 1730 may be disposed over wiring member 1720; the structure 1730 may be constructed of plastic or other material and provides support for the angled surfaces 212, 213, 214, 215 as described above. Structure 1730 may also be configured to receive an electronic display device 101 including four separate panels, e.g., in a recess formed therein.

A surfacing material portion 1750, such as carpet or rubber, may be laid over the structure 1730 to form the angled faces 212, 213, 214, 215. The tempered glass sheet containing the support ribs 1770 may serve as a protective cover 1200 for the electronic display device 101. The components of the floor display system may be combined with an adhesive, epoxy, or mechanical fasteners, for example. A plurality of detachable protective sheets 1301 may be laid on the tempered glass 1200. Protective sheet 1301 may include slip resistant feature 1300.1.

Although not shown, the audio device 110 may be included in the above-described components. The audio device may be constituted by a thin-section speaker or a piezoelectric speaker, for example.

Fig. 18 illustrates the assembled components of the floor display system 100 according to an embodiment built on a tiled floor 1820.

The heat generated by the electronics of the floor display system can be managed by potting compounds known for these purposes. The electronic device may be, for example, encased and bonded to a thin metal plate that acts as a heat sink.

Embodiments of the present invention may also include a water-resistant element to prevent moisture, such as from foot traffic, from damaging the electronic components. Such waterproofing elements may, for example, comprise potting compounds acting as sealants which may be introduced into the crevices of damaging moisture. For example, the potting compound may be used in the gap between the electronic display device and the floor covering to seal out moisture. Waterproof materials such as silicone may also be used for this purpose. Further, for example, a waterproof seal may be formed between the protective cover of the electronic display device and other surfaces of the floor display system. A sealant such as silicone may be used to form a waterproof seal.

Track and groove system

Embodiments of the present invention may include a floor display system implemented as a "track and groove" system. The rail and channel system may be configured to support deployment of one or more electronic display devices over a ground surface.

Fig. 19A shows an illustrative example. In fig. 19A, a trench 1910 is formed in ground 1905. A track 1915 is disposed in the groove. A shelf 1920 may be disposed adjacent to the track and channel.

The track 1915 may include elements for providing power as well as for electronic data transfer. For example, power and data transmission cables may be secured to or encased within or otherwise associated with the track 1915. The power cable and the data transfer cable may include a plurality of connections for connecting electronic devices thereto, such that the devices receive power and/or data via the cable.

Fig. 19B shows an electronic display 1925 disposed in groove 1910. The electronic display device 1925 may be connected to the track 1915 in some manner: for example, it may hook or clasp the track 1915. The electronic display device 1925 may include any of the display techniques and functions described above. Further, while not shown in FIG. 19B, it is to be understood that an electronic display device 1925 may be associated with any of the devices described above, including audio devices, sensing devices, interactive devices, network devices, and the like. More specifically, for example, the electronic display device 1925 may be coupled to a controller, such as the controller 103, by wired or wireless means, and may be modified via the controller to display any content selected by the user, as described above. An electronic display device 1925 and corresponding controller may be connected to the power supply of the track 1915. The controller may also be coupled to a storage medium, such as storage medium 104. Data may be stored in a storage medium using, for example, a data port coupled to a common bus, such as data port 106. The data port can be coupled to a data transfer cable of the track and receive content over the cable for storage in a storage medium and display on an electronic display device 1925 under the control of the controller. Thus, the electronic display device 1925 may be any that may be configured to electronically display modifiable content, support image rotation and/or translation, or otherwise include any of the functions described above in connection with the electronic display device.

As shown in fig. 19C, the void in groove 1910 can be closed or covered by a mating portion, such as portion 1930. Such mating portions may be used to close voids in the channels not occupied by the electronic display device 1925. Embodiments of the invention may also include a protective cover 1935 for an electronic display device. The shield 1935 can be completely transparent, or can be partially opaque but include a transparent window 1935.1 for viewing the electronic display device.

Figure 19D shows a cross-section along line 19D-19D. Reference numerals 1950 and 1955 correspond to a data cable and a power cable, respectively. As can be seen in fig. 19D, embodiments of the invention may also include a lifter 1960 to raise the electronic display device 1925 to a desired level and also to provide support for the shield 1935 along with the track 1915.

Advantages of the embodiments comprising a track and trench system as described above include that there is no obstacle to walking or other traffic occurring, since the electronic display device may be positioned below or substantially at ground level. In addition, common power and data provision through the tracks may allow for a more economical implementation.

Positioning mechanism

Embodiments of the present invention may relate to a floor display system including a mechanism for positioning an electronic display device associated with the floor at a selected inclination for better viewing. Fig. 20A-20C show an illustrative example, in which fig. 20B is an orthogonal side view corresponding to fig. 20A. According to embodiments, the electronic display device 2000 may rest on or be hingedly secured to the ground 2015, or otherwise associated therewith. The positioning device 2020 can be coupled to the electronic display device 2000 to position it at a predetermined angle θ relative to the ground 2015. This may make the electronic display device easier to view from a distance. The positioning device 2020 may comprise, for example, a spring or other flexible or expandable mechanism. As shown in fig. 20C, the positioning device 2020 may be compressible or collapsible such that the electronic display device 2000 may be moved closer to the ground 2015 by, for example, the pressure of a human foot 2030. An advantage of the above arrangement is that the area occupied by the electronic display device can be used for foot or other traffic. It should be understood that although not shown in fig. 20A-20C, the electronic display device 2000 may include and be associated with any of the display technologies and functions described above. Thus, the electronic display device 2000 may be any device that may be configured to electronically display modifiable content, support image rotation and/or translation, or otherwise include any of the functions described above in connection with the electronic display device.

Fig. 20D-20E illustrate an alternative embodiment, wherein fig. 20D is an orthogonal side view corresponding to fig. 20A. As shown in fig. 20D-20E, two electronic display devices 2000, each configured as described above with reference to fig. 20A-20C, respectively, may be arranged back-to-back and share a common positioning device 2020.

Flexible electronic display device

Electronic display devices according to embodiments of the present invention may be constructed of extremely thin flexible lightweight materials. An illustrative example is shown in fig. 21A-21C. According to an embodiment, the electronic display device 2100 may comprise a lightweight material capable of collapsing and bending as shown in fig. 21A. More particularly, the electronic display device 2100 may include a lightweight flexible display element layer 2120 and a lightweight flexible frame 2110. The display element layer 2120 may include display elements such as small molecule OLEDs, polymer OLEDs, PLEDs, or LEPs. Fig. 21B and 21C are cross-sectional views along lines 21B-21B and 21C-21C, respectively. As shown in fig. 21B, the flexible frame 2110 may include a lightweight flexible transparent protective layer 2130 and a lightweight flexible cushion layer 2160. A display element layer 2120 may be disposed between the cushion layer 2160 and the transparent protective layer 2130. The transparent protective layer may comprise, for example, polycarbonate, mylar, or other strong transparent plastic. As shown in fig. 21C, the electronic display device 2100 may also include a lightweight flexible film battery 2170 to power the display. A thin film battery 2170 may be disposed between the display element layer 2120 and the cushion layer 2160.

The electronic display device 2100 may also include light control electronics 2140 for driving the display of the display element layers. As shown, control electronics 2140 may be included with the frame 2110 on the side of the display element layer 2120. Alternatively, the control electronics may be disposed, for example, between the display element layer 2120 and the backing layer 2160 (fig. 21B), or between the backing layer 2160 and the thin-film battery 2170 (fig. 21C).

It should also be understood that, although not shown in fig. 21A-21C, the electronic display device 2100 may be associated with any of the devices described above and may be configured to electronically display any content that may be modified, support image rotation and/or translation, or otherwise include any of the functions described above in connection with the electronic display device.

As described above, the electronic display device 2100 is extremely lightweight and thus easy to carry. For example, it is contemplated that the electronic display device 2100 may be rolled up and carried like a newspaper under the arm.

Several embodiments of the present invention are specifically illustrated and/or described herein. It will be appreciated that modifications and variations of the present invention are covered by the above teachings and within the purview of the appended claims without departing from the spirit and intended scope of the invention.

Claims (70)

1. A floor display system comprising:

a ground cover;

an electronic display device associated with the floor covering, wherein the electronic display device is configurable to electronically display any content that is modifiable;

a controller; and

a sensing device coupled to the controller;

wherein the image displayed by the electronic display device is orientable in accordance with information received by the controller from the sensing device.

2. The floor display system of claim 1, wherein the controller is configurable to determine a difference in proximity to the floor display system between at least two persons based on information received from the sensing device, and to cause the image to be rotated based on the information.

3. The floor display system of claim 2, wherein the controller is configurable to cause the image to be translated further in accordance with the information.

4. The floor display system of claim 1, wherein the sensing device comprises at least one proximity detector.

5. The floor display system of claim 1, wherein the sensing device is associated with the floor covering.

6. The floor display system of claim 1, wherein the sensing device is associated with an object proximate to the floor display system.

7. The floor display system of claim 1, wherein the electronic display device comprises a plurality of separate panels.

8. The floor display system of claim 1, wherein the floor display system is locally configurable with the selected content.

9. The floor display system of claim 1, wherein the floor display system is remotely configurable with the selected content.

10. The floor display system of claim 9, wherein the floor display system is included in a network via which the floor display system is configured.

11. The floor display system of claim 10, wherein the network is a local area network.

12. The floor display system of claim 10, wherein the network is a wide area network.

13. The floor display system of claim 1, wherein the floor display system is linked to a point-of-sale system.

14. The floor display system of claim 1, wherein the floor display system is configurable to request and record information from a person.

15. The floor display system of claim 1, wherein the floor display system includes at least one interactivity device.

16. The floor display system of claim 15, wherein the at least one interactivity device is a voice input device.

17. The floor display system of claim 15, wherein the at least one interactivity device is a keyboard or a numeric keypad.

18. The floor display system of claim 15, wherein the at least one interactivity device is a touch-sensitive display screen.

19. The floor display system of claim 15, wherein the at least one interactivity device is a pressure sensor associated with the floor covering.

20. The floor display system of claim 15, wherein the at least one interactivity device is the card.

21. The floor display system of claim 15, wherein the at least one interactivity device is a barcode scanner.

22. The floor display system of claim 15, wherein the at least one interactivity device is a coupon dispenser.

23. The floor display system of claim 15, wherein the at least one interactivity device is a camera.

24. The floor display system of claim 23, wherein the camera is configurable to cause an image of a person to be displayed on the electronic display device.

25. The floor display system of claim 24, wherein the image of the person is incorporated into a message displayed on the electronic display device.

26. The floor display system of claim 24, wherein the image of the person is modifiable to convey an interesting message.

27. The floor display system of claim 1, further comprising a diffractive prism disposed on the electronic display device.

28. The floor display system of claim 1, further comprising an audio device.

29. The floor display system of claim 28, wherein a frequency and volume of an output of the audio device is controllable based on information received by the controller from the sensing device.

30. The floor display system of claim 28, wherein the controller is configurable to start or stop output of the audio device based on information received by the controller from the sensing device.

31. The floor display system of claim 28, wherein the audio device includes a plurality of directional speakers, and wherein the controller is configurable to cause the directional speakers to produce audio output based on information received by the controller from the sensing device.

32. The floor display system of claim 28, wherein the floor display system is coupled to at least one other floor display system that also includes an audio device, and wherein the audio device is controllable to prevent the audio devices from simultaneously generating audio outputs when the floor display systems are within a predetermined distance of each other.

33. The floor display system of claim 28, wherein the floor display system is configurable to start or stop video output of the electronic display device, start or stop audio output of the audio device, and adjust image orientation and audio output characteristics, individually or in combination, based on information received by the controller from the sensing device.

34. The floor display system of claim 1, wherein the floor display system is configurable to respond to a request by a human being through visual or audio output, wherein the request is made by speaking or by inputting data using an interactive device.

35. The floor display system of claim 1, further comprising a protective cover disposed over the electronic display device.

36. The floor display system of claim 35, wherein the protective cover comprises a transparent member.

37. The floor display system of claim 36, further comprising a hard coating over the transparent member.

38. The floor display system of claim 37, further comprising an anti-reflective coating over the hard coating.

39. The floor display system of claim 36, further comprising an anti-reflective coating over a top surface of the transparent member.

40. The floor display system of claim 36, further comprising an anti-reflective coating over the bottom surface of the transparent member.

41. The floor display system of claim 35, further comprising a removable protective sheet disposed over the protective cover.

42. The floor display system of claim 41, wherein the removable protective sheet includes a non-slip feature.

43. The floor display system of claim 41, wherein the removable protective sheet is one of a plurality of removable protective sheets in a stack.

44. The floor display system of claim 35, further comprising a non-slip protective sheet disposed on the protective cover in the form of a roll of continuous material.

45. The floor display system of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of scented tablets.

46. The floor display system of claim 1, further comprising a fragrance dispenser.

47. The floor display system of claim 1, further comprising an alarm system.

48. The floor display system of claim 47, wherein the warning system comprises an electrical pulse generator.

49. The floor display system of claim 1, further comprising a water resistant member.

50. The floor display system of claim 1, wherein the electronic display device comprises a plurality of separate panels, wherein each of the separate panels is configurable to independently display an image.

51. The floor display system of claim 50, wherein each panel is further configurable to display an image having a different orientation than an image on another panel.

52. The floor display system of claim 50, wherein at least two panels are configurable to form a composite image.

53. The floor display system of claim 50, wherein the image displayed by at least one of the plurality of separate panels of the electronic display device is rotatable according to information received by the controller from the sensing device.

54. The floor display system of claim 53, wherein the image is further translatable in accordance with information received by the controller from the sensing device.

55. The floor display system of claim 50, wherein at least one of the panels is configurable to display an image that is substantially visible when viewed from a first direction, but substantially invisible when viewed from a second direction.

56. The floor display system of claim 1, further comprising:

a trench in the ground in which the electronic display device is housed;

a track disposed in the channel and coupled to the electronic display device.

57. The floor display system of claim 56, wherein the track has associated therewith at least one of a power source and a data conduit, and the electronic display device is configured to receive at least one of power and data from the power source and data conduit, respectively.

58. The floor display system of claim 56, further comprising at least one mating portion configured to fill an open space in the channel.

59. The floor display system of claim 56, further comprising a protective cover disposed over the electronic display device.

60. The floor display system of claim 59, wherein the protective cover comprises a transparent window.

61. The floor display system of claim 56, further comprising a riser disposed within the channel to raise the electronic display device to a desired level.

62. The floor display system of claim 1, further comprising:

a positioning mechanism coupled to the electronic display device for positioning the electronic display device at a predetermined angle relative to the ground.

63. The floor display system of claim 62, wherein the positioning mechanism is flexible.

64. The floor display system of claim 62, wherein the positioning mechanism is extendable and retractable.

65. The floor display system of claim 62, wherein the positioning mechanism comprises a spring.

66. The floor display system of claim 62, further comprising another electronic display device disposed back-to-back with the electronic display device and sharing the positioning mechanism with the electronic display device.

67. The floor display system of claim 1,

the ground cover comprises a light flexible frame, a light flexible transparent protective layer and a light flexible cushion layer; and

the electronic display device includes a lightweight flexible display element layer disposed between the transparent protective layer and the backing layer.

68. The floor display system of claim 67, wherein the electronic display device further comprises a lightweight flexible film battery.

69. The floor display system of claim 67, wherein the display element layer includes organic light emitting diodes.

70. The floor display system of claim 67, wherein the display element layer comprises a light emitting polymer.