ARTIFICIAL WINDOW APPARATUS

Abstract: An artificial window (15) comprising a box having a rear wall (17e), and the walls (17a-17d) bounding an interior space which faces longitudinally forwardly; sheets (5) extending laterally crosswise of the space, and viewable pattern associated with the sheets (5) to be illuminated by light passing forwardly from the box interior; light source in the box; a reflector in the box to reflect light from the light source in a direction towards the sheets (5) for effecting illumination of the viewable pattern; there being a member for controlling the illumination of the viewable pattern, as a function of at least one lateral dimension.

Description: ARTIFICIAL WINDOW APPARATUS BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION This invention relates generally to artificial window apparatus, and more particularly, to improvements in the construction and operation of same. It is known to provide so-called artificial windows wherein a scene or picture produced on a film or transparency is illuminated as from the rear side thereof, whereby a viewer in a building can observe the scene or pictures which appear similar to the viewed exterior. A "window" effect is thereby created, and light behind the transparency has been used for this purpose. There is need for improvements in such artificial windows which can enhance the realism of the scene portrayed, and using a local light source or sources. For example, there is need to arbitrarily change the lighting of the viewed transparency to simulate morning, full day, evening, or nighttime conditions. Other realistic effects associated with the portrayed scene are also desirable. There is also need to improve the frames of such windows, and to support such windows for movement. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is a major object of the invention to provide an artificial window construction or constructions which meet the above need. Basically, the apparatus of the invention comprises: a) a box having a rear wall, and side walls bounding an interior space which faces longitudinally forwardly, b) translucent sheet means extending laterally crosswise of the space, and viewable pattern means associated with the sheet means to be illuminated by light passing forwardly from the box interior, c) light source means in or associated with the box, and d) the window also having at least one of the following: i) means associated with at least one of a) , b) and c) for controlling the illumination of the viewable pattern means, as a function of at least one lateral dimension of the one of a) , b) and c) ; ii) frame means projecting at the periphery of the space and bounding at least part of the space, the frame means having lengthwise elongated surface extent which tapers sidewardly and forwardly along at least one side of the frame means toward a zone frontwardly of the transparent sheet means to provide an illusion of shortened depth of the space; iii) window sized enclosure means defining interior hollow structure and having first and second openings facing in opposite longitudinal directions, the enclosure means adapted to be supported by a vertical divider panel with the openings facing toward opposite sides of the panel; vi) ventilation means to permit the flow of air over the heated light source components to cool them and to prevent or minimize the build¬ up of heat within the artificial window apparatus. It is another object of the invention to provide means for illuminating edges of the sheet means in such manner as to highlight special viewable effects associated with the frontwardly portrayed scene on the transparency, as for example simulated stars, as well as sunrise and sunset sky coloration. These effects may be made to change with time. As will be seen, sun and moon effects can be simulated by use of a light pipe or pipes illuminated to produce a bright spot or spots which moves across the sky portion of the transparency or scene portrayed in the artificial window. Yet another object is the provision of means associated with the light source means for producing viewable effects, such as lights and changes thereof; scene illumination intensity and coloration; and day to night and night to day changes, such as sunset, dawn, rain effects, etc. Light filters, shutters, and dimmers are usable for these purposes. Reproduction of movement of outside lights is also contemplated. In this regard, the box may be supported so that the viewable pattern or scene is viewable from a position inside a building, the pattern defining a picture. Further objects include means for producing detectable sound and scent effects associated with the illuminated scene in the artificial window. Controlled air flow, as from the artificial window, is also contemplated, i.e., to simulate wind or weather conditions. Horizon level change may also be provided, as is characteristic of viewing the horizon from a ship. As will be seen, the means providing substantial uniformity of illumination of the referenced sheet means may typically include one or more of the following: reflecting structures shapes to enhance illumination of lesser illuminated portions of the pattern means; - variable light-absorbing zones associated with the sheet means; variable shading of the pattern means, on a transparency; - variable-thickness of the .sheet means that comprises a diffuser, or use of a separate diffuser; light intensity limiting means mounted on or near light bulbs for controlling that portion of the light going directly to the sheet means. As will appear, the elongated and forwardly tapering extent of the frame means is angled, as for example between 30° and 60° relative to the forward direction, and also continued, to create the illusion of substantially reduced depth or projection of the apparatus away from the associated wall. To this end the frame means tapered surface typically extends continuously from the externally outermost part of the frame means to a locus generally forwardly of the laterally outermost extent of the transparency. Another object of the invention is to provide the tapered frame means to extend along at least one side of the enclosure, and typically along at least three sides of the enclosure. Those three sides preferably include a top horizontal stretch, and parallel vertical stretches; and in this regard, the frame means may then include a sill projecting horizontally at the lower ends of the vertical stretches. Mullion structure may be provided to extend cross-wise of the enclosure frontward opening, inward of the tapered surface or surfaces of the bounding frame, to enhance the illusion of a real window. A further object is to provide a support attachable, or attached, to the room wall, the illuminating means including light source means carried by the support. The construction may be such as to enable removal from the wall of the frame carrying the transparency, and to enable ready change of the transparency, apart from the light source and support, which remain attached to the wall. The construction may be such as to enable removal from the wall of the frame from the box having the light source means with sheet means and transparency. The removed frame provides access to the transparency for removal and replacement as well as removal and replacement of the light bulbs. Another object is to provide the artificial window, to have association with a room divider, which may be movable in the room, and to have two scene-depicting transparencies facing generally oppositely in the room interior. The divider may be oriented to cause the transparencies to respectively face two different portions of the room interior from each of which a window scene is to be perceived. The two transparencies may be selectively back lit; and an opening may be provided or formed in the divider panel to receive installation of the artificial window, whereby the two oppositely facing transparencies become exposed to work areas at opposite sides of the divider panel, which may then be shifted to orient the windows relative to occupants in the work areas. As will appear, the illumination means may be located to produce light illuminating inner sides of the transparency sheets facing the space between the transparencies; and reflector means may be provided in that space.between the two scene- depicting transparencies to reflect light toward the back sides of both transparencies. A further object is to provide illumination means including light source means positioned to transmit light into edges of light diffusing panel means. In this regard, the reflector means may be located to have opposite sides exposed to the transparencies, and to light bulbs proximate edges of light diffuser panel, to receive light from the bulbs and redirect that light toward the transparencies. The depth dimension of the window may thereby be reduced. A further object is to provide a ventilation means to permit the flow of air through holes, slots, recesses, etc., in the top and bottom sections of the frame, as well as holes into lower section of the box and out of the upper section of the box with light source means, to cool said light source components. Natural convection would occur as cool air comes into the opening in the bottom of the frame and into the box portion, and the heat air will flow out the openings in the upper side of the box portion and the frame. A fan means can force the flow of air through the artificial window apparatus, if more heat removal capacity is required. Rather than holes, slots or ventilation ports, the frame can be positioned to the box portion, so that there is a clearance space between the back of the frame and the wall to permit the flow of air to the box portion for cooling purposes. These and other objects and advantages of the invention, as well as the details of an illustrative embodiment, will be more fully understood from the following specification and drawings, in which: DRAWING DESCRIPTION FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a building room, with an artificial window installed on one wall; FIG. 2 is an enlarged section taken on lines 2-2 of FIG. 1; FIG. 3 is a further enlarged section, like FIG. 2, but showing greater detail; FIG. 4 is a plan view of a reflector employed in FIG. 3 looking toward the reflecting δ surface; FIG. 5 is a plan view of illumination modifier means; FIG. 6 is a fragmentary view of multiple sheets; FIG. 7 is a fragmentary view of a multiple reflector arrangement; FIG. 8 is a view showing displacement of two sheets; FIG. 9 is a view of a modified diffuser; FIG. 10 is a flow diagram; FIG. 11 is a schematic showing of operation of an artificial window associated with the steps of FIG. 10; FIG. 12 is a front elevational view of an artificial window incorporating the invention; FIG. 13 is a plan view taken on lines 13- 13 of FIG. 12; FIG. 14 is an end elevation taken -on lines 14-14 Of FIG. 12; FIG. 15 is an enlarged, detailed section taken on lines 15-15 of FIG. 12; FIGS. 16-19 are sections taken through alternative frame stretches, showing beveling or tapering; in relation to a wall to which the frames are attached; FIG. 20 is a side elevation showing a room with a divider panel supported on the floor and an artificial window in that panel; FIG. 21 is an enlarged section taken on lines 21-21 of FIG. 20; FIG. 22 is an enlarged fragmentary section taken through an artificial window supported in an opening in a room divider; FIG. 23 is a view like FIG. 22 showing a modification; FIG. 23a is an elevation showing edge illumination of a diffuser panel; FIG. 24 is another view like FIG. 23 showing a further modification; FIG. 25 is another view like FIG. 23 showing a further modification; FIG. 26 is a frontal view of a neutralizing screen which aids making uniform the illumination of transparencies; FIG. 27 is a side view of a fluorescent bulb with a screen thereon which aids making uniform the illumination of transparencies; FIG. 27a is a fragmentary side view showing painted/printed dots on the fluorescent bulb; FIGS. 28a—28c are perspective views of attachments to a fluorescent bulb-or bulbs which aid making uniform the illumination of transparencies; and FIGS. 28d and 28f are side views of other attachments having the same functions; and FIG. 29 is yet another view like FIG. 23 showing a single-sided, artificial window in a vertical panel. DETAILED DESCRIPTION In FIGS. 1 and 2, a room 10 is defined by walls 11-14 of a building or house. Installed on wall 11 is an "artificial window" 15, which appears to show an external scene, such as might exist at the outer side of wall 11. One such scene appears at 20 in the artificial window 15. Note for example the depicted road, trees, sky, and clouds. The artificial window 15 includes a frame 16 with four frame members 16a—16d. Typically, as box 17 incorporates the frame, and has side wall members 17a—17d, and rear wall member 17e. The latter may fit against the room wall 11 and be mounted in position in any manner desired. See for example mounting brackets 18, which may be concealed as shown. The eye of an observer looking at the artificial window 15 from within the room appears at 19. Box 17 does not communicate -with the exterior and is not installed in the wall 11, so it can be installed anywhere on the wall. More specifically and extending the description to FIG. 2, box walls 17a—17e bound an interior space 21, which faces or opens longitudinally forwardly in the direction of arrow 22. Translucent sheet means S is carried by the box to extend crosswise of space 21. Such sheet means may include, for example, first and second translucent sheets 23 and 24, seen in FIG. 3, sheet 23 located forwardly of sheet 24, and sheet 23 being transparent, whereas sheet 24 is translucent or light diffusing or transparent. Both may consist of glass, or plastic material (synthetic resin) . Located between the sheets 23 and 24 is a viewable pattern means 25 shown in sheet form, and which may for example consist of a plastic film (which may be locally transparent, translucent or opaque) on which a pattern in the form of a scene (black and white or colored for example scene 20) is affixed, to be illuminated by light rays traveling forwardly in the box interior. Both sheets 23 and 24 may be the same, i.e., transparent, and an additional sheet 26 may be provided at the rear of 24, to provide light diffusion, i.e., sheet 26 may be translucent. All the sheets may be generally edgewise co-terminus for support by box structure indicated at 30. A light source 35 is provided in the window box, rearwardly of the sheet means. A reflector means 36 is also provided in the box to reflect light from the light source means 35 in a direction toward the sheet -means for effecting illumination (for example back illumination) of the viewable pattern means 25, as referred to. In the simplest embodiment, the rear of the flat box 31 acts as basic reflector to provide such illumination. In an improved version, a curved/shaped reflector as at 36 is employed. A laterally horizontally elongated fluorescent lamp 35 is spaced forwardly of the elongated central region 36a of the laterally elongated reflector 36. The latter may comprise a metallic sheet, having like laterally vertically spaced and curved/shaped sections 36b and 36c to reflect light as shown. See rays 37 and 38 transmitted rearwardly and laterally for reflection at 37a and 38a, and subsequent travel at 37b and 38b to a diffuser plate 39. The latter diffuses the rays so that they then travel forwardly at 37c and 38c to illuminate the sheet means, as referred to above. Thus, all or substantially all light used for illumination may be reflected from the reflector 36, and provision is made for uniform, or substantially uniform illumination of the viewable pattern means 25. Alternatively, the diffuser sheet 39 may be forward and associated with sheets 24, 25, and 26. In this regard, means is provided in association with at least one of the elements 24 and 26, and 36, for controlling the illumination of the viewable pattern means, as a function of at least one lateral dimension of such element or elements, thereby to obtain the desired uniform, or substantially uniform, illumination of the pattern means 25. As one example, reference is made to FIG. 4 showing that reflecting portions of the surface structure of the reflector 36 are modified to enhance illumination of portions of the pattern 25 that would otherwise receive lesser illumination. See portion 45 of the surface of 36, between darkened or shaded (light absorbing) zones 46. Zones 46 are spaced apart along laterally horizonal dimensions 47 of the reflector, and are elongated along shallowly, vertically curved, lateral dimensions 48 of the reflector, and also tapered away from the central region 36a of the reflector rearwardly of the bulb 35. Zones 45 progressively widen in directions 48 away from 36a, as shown. FIG. 4 may also be considered to represent a flat reflector. Other means to achieve uniform illumination include: variable shading on a transparency (transparency sheet) placed adjacent or incorporated into sheet 25, and variable thickness of the diffuser sheet 39 (i.e., increasing thickness of 39 in opposite directions away from the plane 52 that bisects the sheet 26 and that bisects bulb 35, as well as extending forwardly, as shown. FIG. 5 shows light-absorbing, black dots on the surface of the reflector 36, the density of such dots progressively decreasing in a direction 48 away from the central zone 36a of the reflector rearward of bulb 35. Thus, more light is absorbed at zone 53 than at zone 54, for example, zone 54 being closer to the edges of the plates 23-25 than zone 53. The light-reflecting surface of the reflector may, therefore, be likened to a variable areal density white paint. Alternatively, such a pattern 53 and 54 may be associated with the diffuser 39 or sheets 26 or 24. Such a dot pattern here may be either white (reflective) or black (absorbing) . Also provided are means for illuminating the edges of the sheets 23, 24, and 26, or a selected edge or edges of such sheets, see edges 23a, 24a_, and 26a in FIG. 3 in the path of light from an elongated electric lamp 55 extending parallel to such edges. A reflector 56 is provided to the rear of that lamp, and circuitry 57 is connected with the lamp to control its illumination. Such circuitry may include a "dimmer"; for example, variable electrical resistance that increases with time so that the light source 55 is progressively dimmed, thereby to reduce the daylight effect of light transmitted into the sheet and parallel to the plane thereof. Thus, a fading daylight effect is created. Note the control circuit 58 connected to and controlling circuitry 57. Similar circuits 57a and 58a may be provided to similarly create energization of source 35, a shown. The plates 23 and 24 may consist of plastic material, such as acrylic, and may bear appropriately positioned surface scratches, at surfaces facing forwardly or rearwardly, to locally emit light transmitted from 55 for creating highlighting effects, as for example simulated stars, and sunrise and sunset color streaks in the sky. See scratches at 60 in FIG. 1 which may also represent "star" zones for very short scratches. Controls 58 and 58a may provide illumination sequencing, as in a "light filter", to provide viewable effects, such as oncoming sunrise, sunset and evening. Sun, moon, stars, and night colors (dark blue for example) , and clouds may also be provided in this or similar manner. The edges of sheets 24 and 26 may be colored dark blue to produce night light, or orange to produce sunset or sunrise. The movable shutter 250 may allow or cut off light passage to either sheet. FIG. 6 shows the provision of a light filter sheet 64 parallel to sheets 23 and 24, and adjacent to one or the other thereof. Multiple reflectors 36d and light sources 35d may also be employed, as in FIG. 7. FIG. 3 shows the provision of a light pipe 70 projecting between 39 and 26, and receiving light from a source 71. The forward end of the pipe is turned at 70a to project toward sheet 26, directly behind same, so that light is projected in rays at 73 to simulate a moon in a scene provided by the transparency. The pipe is carried to pivot at a shaft 76, an actuator 77 providing such pivoting of the shaft so that the turned end 70a slowly translates across a sky associated with the transparency scene yielding a time-progress effect to the viewer. The sun and moon are simulated by a bright light which arcs across the sky. The light emanates from ends of light pipes which pipe the light from bulbs to turned-up ends. The end of the pipe which simulates the moon may be caused to appear to go through "phases". The sky may be on the acrylic plastic sheet behind the light pipe so that there is not a blue filter over ±he sun and moon, or the color of-the sun and-moon may be adjusted to compensate for this "blue sky" filter. Referring again to the dimmer means, the dimmer ballast is switched from operating the sunrise and sunset lights to the night sky and stars lights. These two sets of lights do not need to be on at the same time. The switch is less expensive than another set of dimmer ballast. Also provided is sound-producing means associated with the pattern means (as for example thunder, dogs barking, crickets, etc.). See speaker 80 in the box and tape player 81 connected with same in FIG. 3. A sound generator 82 may be provided. Wind or air current-generating means may be provided, as by blower 90 and ducting 91 exhausting frontwardly toward the viewer to enhance the natural effect of a viewable scene in the window. A scent source (forest scent, etc.) may also be provided at 92 connected to the blower to supply scent to the displaced air. Other effects may be created, including strobe light and sound amplification. The transparent film 25 may be attached to sheet 24, and the latter moved up and down, or tilted, controllably, to cause shifting of a horizon provided by the film 25. See FIG. 8 showing actuator or weight 100 connected at 101 to 24 for this purpose. Additional effects may be provided as follows: General Local Dayliσht Intensity Variations in the window daylight, sun and moon intensity reheating exterior illumination levels caused mainly by clouds and the time of solar day. Thus, the viewer is informed of exterior conditions. For this purpose, an exterior photo sensor 105 may be used, as above roof or outer wall 112. Liσhtninσ bv Strobes Lightning simulated by strobe lights. Repetition of External Sounds Rebroadcasting outside sounds by using an outside microphone 106. This, as well as signals relaying external lights from sensor 105, is transmitted to the artificial window by wire, optical fiber, or radio. Vented Air Air being vented from an air vent behind the window through a diffuser which emanates from an opening in the (open) window. Recirculating Air Room air recirculation, intakes at the edges of the window, for example beneath, with the output through the window. Electronic Controller The electronic controller incorporates stored values versus time. These values are used to control the various light banks and other features. Controller The various features are programmed versus time using stored digital values which are used to control light levels versus time, etc., using an analog to digital converter. Normal Cycle and Rapid Cycle The controller has a normal cycle and a rapid cycle. The rapid cycle is used to show the features of the window within minutes rather than hours. A master controller for all other controls is indicated at 110 in FIG. 3. FIG. 9 is a view showing a modified diffuser 39', which is like 39, but has progressively decreasing thickness in directions 48. Referring now to the example described and shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the method of forming and operating an artificial window includes the steps: a) providing a film sheet that depicts a landscape (see step 210 in FIG. 10) ; b) mounting the film sheet, as at 200, within a box 201, and supporting that box, as at 208, adjacent the inner side 202a of a wall 202 of a building room 203, to simulate a window in that wall from which the landscape might be viewed (see step 211 in FIG. 10) ; c) employing artificial light to provide illumination of the film sheet 200 in such manner that, when viewed, as at 206, from the room interior 203a, the landscape is depicted, such illumination including back illumination as from a light source 204 in the box (see step 212 in FIG. 10) ; d) and controlling the illumination of the film sheet 200 to simulate a selected time of day associated with the landscape (see step 213 in FIG. 10) . In this regard, the landscape depicted by the film sheet 200 (for example a transparency upon which a landscape appears at colored opaque areas) may be a representation of the same landscape as could be viewed from the room through a window in wall 202. See for example landscape 215 to the right of wall 202, as might be viewed through a window 216 in a wall 217, then being representational only. Window 216 is shown aligned with window box 201 and the transparency 200, for purposes of illustration. The landscape depicted by the film sheet 200 may alternatively be different from that at 215. The control of intensity of back illumination may for example be carried out in a controller 218 connected at 219 with 204, for example to control intensity or brightness of illumination. This, bright daylight, late daylight, and evening light can be successively programmed into such illumination, other light conditions also being effectable, as described above in earlier views. The step above also includes the option of providing a translucent light diffuser means, as at 229, proximate the film sheet 200, and transmitting light into the diffuser means or sheet 219, as via its edge or edges, to travel therein generally parallel to the plane of sheet 210. See light source 222, controlled as by 218, adjacent the edge of 229. A window box frame appears at 223. A sensor 224 may be exposed to the exterior 225 of the room 203, to sense external light conditions, or other conditions, for controlling or modulating, via light source 204 and 222, and thus the illumination of the film sheet 200, as a function of such sensing. Thus, if the exterior sky darkens, the illumination of sheet 200 may be diminished, this being one example only. Other aspects of the elements described and claimed, with alternatives are listed as follows: Simulated window frame means can include the following components: A frame which gives the viewer the appearance of a window on a wall. - The frame may be made of wood, plastic, steel, or structural type of material. The construction material may have a natural finish, painted, or other type of alternative finish. The frame may have a sill and/or mullions to further enhance the illusion that the frame represents the frame of an actual window. - Such items as Venetian blinds, drapes, curtains, etc. , can be combined with the simulated window frame to give the viewer the further illusion of a real window. The frame means will combine the viewable pattern means to the illumination means. - The frame might have attachment means to hang on the wall and contain the viewable pattern means and the illumination means with illumination control. Viewable pattern means can include the following elements: The viewable pattern may be a photographic transparency. The viewable pattern may be a printed picture or some other picture means. - The viewable pattern may represent a scene in nature, in the country, in a garden, in a forest, by a body of water, of a city, etc. - A transparent glass or plastic material -may be placed in front of the viewable pattern to protect it from damage, dust, dirt, foreign material, or the like. The viewable pattern may be confined between two panes of glass, plastic, or similar sheet materials which permit the passage of light. - The viewable pattern may be attached to one or two pieces of glass, plastic, or similar sheet materials which permit the passage of light. The viewable pattern may be more than one scene, with means being provided to change the picture from one scene to another. Illumination means can include the following components: - incandescent lamp/lamps; fluorescent lamp/lamps with necessary ballast/ballasts and possibly starter/starters; neon lamp/lamps and necessary ballast/ballasts; - electroluminescent lamp system/systems; liquid crystal display lighting system/systems; combination of two or more of the above light sources into the illumination means; illumination means can have attachment means to the wall on which it will hang; illumination means may work in combination with the simulated window frame and viewable pattern means to hang on a wall; illumination means may have ability to support and position light source/sources in proper position with respect to viewable pattern means and the illumination control means in order to provide proper illumination. Illumination control means can include elements which have a tendency to even out the intensity of the illumination means so the viewable pattern means is not disturbing with bright and dim lighted areas. The glass or plastic sheet material positioned behind the viewable pattern means may be translucent and have variable thickness to diffuse the intensity of the illumination means. - A reflector/reflectors may be used in conjunction with the illumination means to better distribute the light more evenly over the full display area. A variable density white (or black) paint pattern may be placed on the glass, plastic sheet or plastic film behind the viewable pattern means to even out the intensity of illumination means. A tinted and/or reflective material may be placed between the illumination means and the viewable pattern means to provide a more even light intensity output to the viewable pattern means. - The transparency may be intentionally modified to absorb, reflect, and transmit light to compensate for uneven illumination. Illumination control may encompass the following: sunrise and sunset colors may be localized in clouds and just above the horizon. Starlight is localized to come from a few points. These effects may be achieved by: - Edge illumination of sheets which are used as light pipes. ■ Surfaces where light is to emanate may be roughened. Other light pipes may be used to transmit light from sources to small areas, such as the sun and moon, and these may move across the window. Referring to FIGS. 12-15, the artificial window apparatus 310 includes a window sized enclosure including a frame means 312 adjacent a vertical wall 311, as for example may be defined by a room. The enclosure may be separate from the frame, but in the drawing it is shown as integral with the frame, both indicated at 312, and as having a forwardmost portion 312a defining a front opening 313 facing in a forward direction 314, toward the eye 315 of the observer. The enclosure defines an interior hollow or cavity 316, and the enclosure is adapted to be supported adjacent the side 311a. of wall 311. See for example the hanger 317 extending outwardly from wall 311 into a recess 317a in the rear side 312b of the frame. Either the enclosure or the frame may be hung from the wall. A scene depicting transparency or film 310a extends vertically in hollow 316, in a plane normal to forward direction 314, and across opening 313. Illumination means is also provided in hollow 316 for illuminating the rearward side of the transparency 310a, enabling viewing thereof, as for example depicting an external or outdoor landscape. Such illumination means is shown to include one or more fluorescent bulbs 322 located rearwardly of a light diffusing plate 323 which extends adjacent the rear side of the transparency 310a. A transparent glass or plastic plate 324 extends parallel to plate 323 and vertically, at the front side of the transparency 310a, to help support the transparency and also provide the viewer with an illusion of viewing a real window pane. Note that both plates may be clamped in position, toward and against enclosure portion 312a, as by a clamping plate 325 extending at the rear periphery of plate 323 and attached to frame 312 as by a fastener 327. Accordingly, when the frame is removed from the wall, ready access is gained to elements 323, 325 and 327, enabling ready removal and replacement of the transparency, as when a different scene is to be depicted by the artificial window. The end contacts 322a. of bulb 322 are suitably carried in holders 322b, and electrical current is supplied via line 360 and ballast 361, in a chamber 362 in lowermost extent 312h of the enclosure or frame. A light reflective surface is provided at 370. It is an important feature of the invention that the frame means have lengthwise elongated surface extent which tapers sidewardly and forwardly toward a zone frontwardly of the transparency to provide an illusion of shortened depth of the enclosure. See for example the tapered surface 330 on and along the top horizontal stretch 312 d) of the frame 312, and it may also extend on and along either or both of the vertical stretches 312e of the frame, as is clear from FIG. 12. Such tapered extent tapers sidewardly and forwardly, in directions 335 and 336 shown in FIG. 15, and may merge shallowly convexly at 330a with the outer flat side 312g of the frame, and at 330b with the front flat surface 312f of 312a. Thus, the frame tapered surface extends from a first locus sidewardly of the light source means, to a second locus generally forwardly of the transparency, and of the light diffuser means. The angularity a of the surface relative to the forward direction 314 is between 30° and 60°, angle indicated in FIG. 15. Accordingly, the construction described, including the tapered surface or surfaces 330, contribute substantially to the optically illusional fore-shortening of the overall depth dimension of the artificial window apparatus. The cooling air ventilation passageways are shown on FIG. 15. The passageway 371 permits air to flow through the lower portion of the frame 312. The recesses 372 and 373 permit the flow of air from inside of the lower frame 312 into and out of the interior hollow area 329, where the light source is located. The passageway 374 permits the flow of air out from the top inside of the frame 312. FIGS. 16-19 show various cross-sectional configuration of frames, which are usable. In FIG. 16, the construction is like FIG. 15, but a wedge-shaped portion 340 of frame 312 is provided, and protrudes from the inner side 341 of the frame 312. Wedge shaped portion 340 engages a mating wedge shaped groove (recess) on the top edge of the enclosure (light box) for trapping and retaining the frame to the light box and holding the frame 312 against the wall 311. In FIG. 17 the modified bevel surface 330a extends, forwardly from a point 342 adjacent wall 343. In FIG. 18 the further modified bevel surface 330b is shallowly convexly curved from locus 344 to locus 345. In FIG. 19 the further modified bevel 330c is flat but merges with curvature at 346 with frame outer surface 347, and merges with curvature at 348 with frame front portion 312a. In FIGS. 12 and 15, ullions 350 and 351 extend transversely across the glass pane surface 324, and are end-connected with frame portions 312a, thereby providing the look of an actual window. A window ledge 354 extends horizontally at the lower ends of the vertical frames 330. In FIGS. 20 and 21, a room divider 410 is supported at 411 on a floor 412 to extend upright to top level 410c, below ceiling 413. The divider may be moved about as desired to separate room spaces 414 and 415, which may, for example, contain office furniture, such as desks 416 and computer equipment 417, etc. Office workers are thus separated from one another. An artificial window apparatus 418 is carried by the divider 410 so that occupants of divided spaces 414 and 415 may both view the apparatus 418, which creates the impression of an actual window via which an external landscape, or other scene, may be viewed. Apparatus 418 is typically window sized. Extending the description to FIG. 22, the apparatus 418 is shown to include a window-size enclosure 420, which has horizontal top and bottom frame members 420a and 420b, and vertical side members 420c and 420d_. These fit within an opening cut through the divider panel 421, the opening defined by top and bottom edges 422a and 422b, and vertical side edges 422c and 422d. The attachment of the frame members to the opening edges may be by any convenient means, such as brackets, fasteners, tape, etc. It is clear from FIG. 21 that workers or observers at opposite sides of the apparatus 418 may both view the scenes depicted by the apparatus. See eyes 414a and 415a. In this regard, FIG. 21 shows two scene- depicting transparencies or films 424 and 425 extending vertically in horizontally spaced relation and supported by the frame members at or proximate opposite sides of the apparatus, such transparencies or film being back illuminated by illumination means carried within or by the frame structure. Such illumination means is generally indicated at 426 in FIG. 21. Transparencies 424 and 425 face in opposite directions, as shown. Extending the description to FIG. 22, the two transparencies 424 and 425 are shown at opposite sides of a cavity or hollow 427 formed within the enclosure 420. Transparency 424 is retained between a protective glass or transparent sheet 428 and a light-diffusing, plastic sheet 429; and transparency 425 is likewise retained between a protective glass or transparent sheet 430 and a light-diffusing, plastic sheet 431. Sheets 428-431 extend in parallel relation, as shown, and edge portions thereof are retained between lip portions 432 and 433 of the enclosure 420, extending at all four sides of the protective sheets 428 and 430. Also located within the enclosure 420 is illumination means for back illuminating the two scene-depicting transparencies 424 and 425 to be viewed from opposite sides of the divider panel. As seen in FIGS. 20 and 22, the illumination means may, for example, include elongated fluorescent bulbs 435 extending horizontally in the horizontal view and spaced apart vertically in hollow 427. The horizontal direction is generally preferred since a few long bulbs are less expensive than many short bulbs; however, the bulbs can be extended non- horizontally. Any horizontal non-uniformities in illumination are generally acceptable as more natural than vertical non-uniformities. The bulb 435 may be received in bulbholders (not shown) , and supplied with appropriate electrical current and voltage. A source of current is shown at 444, and switch 445 is provided to controllably supply power to sets of bulbs, as desired. Source 444 may be carried in the frame 420. FIG. 23 is somewhat similar to FIG. 22; however, the light source means extends principally outside the space or cavity between the two transparencies 424 and 425, enabling the light to uniformly illuminate the diffuser panel 429 between the transparencies, for a given spacing of the transparencies. Accordingly, the artificial window then projects to lesser extent away from opposite sides of the divider 421, increasing the illusion of a real window. As shown, the light source means generally shown at 452 is carried by the enclosure means 453 proximate edges of the transparencies, and in particular is arranged to transmit light into the edge or edges of the light diffuser panel 429 to effectively illuminate the panel surfaces 429a which extend adjacent the back sides of the transparencies. As shown, the illumination means may include fluorescent bulb 456 extends horizontally and parallel to and proximate edges 429b of the diffuser sheet or panel 429. Curved cross-section reflector 458 extends over the bulb to reflect light from the bulb toward and into the sheet 429 at its edge, as referred to. Reflector 458 may be elongated and concave toward the bulb and panel edges. FIG. 23a shows use of such a bulb 456 at the upper edge 429b of sheet 429, and additional use of a corresponding bulb 456• and reflector 458* at and along the lower edge 429c of sheet 429. The surface 429a of 429 adjacent to the transparencies 424 and 425 are lightly scratched so as to allow the light trapped in 429 to escape and back illuminate the transparencies. In FIG. 24, the back sides of both of the light diffuser panels 429 and 431 are illuminated from the same light source means, such as fluorescent bulb 470, or bulb 471, or both. Bulb 470 may extend lengthwise of the upper edges 429a and 431a of the panels 429 and 431, but in the space 480 between them; and bulb 471 may extend lengthwise of the lower edges 429b and 431b of the panels 429 and 431, but in the space 481 between them. Also, one or both bulbs may be located equidistantly from the panels, i.e., in the plane of the room divider 421. Reflector surfaces (metallized, for example) are provided at 484 and 485 to be concave toward the spaces 480 and 481, to reflect light from the bulbs toward the back sides of the panels 429 and 431. A reflector 486 assists such back lighting of the panels, and extends facewise between the panels and edgewise between the bulbs 470 and 471, as shown. It has shallowly concavely curved surfaces 486a- 486d to reflect or re-reflect light rays, as at 487a and 487b toward the panels. Surfaces 486a-486b are concave toward the panels, the reflector being generally diamond-shaped in cross section. It will be noted that the frame members of the enclosure advantageously have tapered or beveled outer surfaces, indicated for example at 490 and 491 in FIGS. 21 and 22 at or along all four sides of the window. This produces an illusion of reduction of window depth, i.e., the extent to which the window projects away from the divider and into the work area. A sill 492 may be provided at and along the lower horizontal frame member at each side of the divider panel to provide further resemblance to an actual window. See FIG. 21. FIG. 25 shows the side view of a series of three bulbs 501'. Between them are diamond-sided reflectors 502 » whose positions and shapes aid in making the illumination of the transparencies uniform. (See light rays 498.) Each diffuser 503 is shown adjacent a scene-depicting transparency 504 which, in turn, is adjacent the outside clear glass or plastic panel 505. To aid in the uniformity of illumination of the transparencies, a sheet of variable areal density white paint 506 (see FIG. 26) can be inserted beneath/behind the transparency 511. Alternatively, each transparency 504 can be caused to be printed with more opacity over the bulb highlights and to be more translucent over the more poorly illuminated areas. The upper end reflector 507 has a triangular cross section and flat plate sides 502a and 502b. Another means for reducing unwanted illumination highlights is to place material 508, such as tape, sheet, screen, strips, or rods, on the bulbs to reduce the light. Tape which can be used is similar to that employed for sun shields in or on car windows, or on home or office windows, and is available with adhesive attached. Such tape is opaque, and covers only part of the bulb, such as that portion of the bulb surface closest to the diffuser plate, as shown. An alternative is a whiter, non- discoloring plastic sheet which is held in place by mending tape. In either case, the material should be non-flammable. The ends of the tape or sheet may be tapered to compensate for the decrease in bulb brightness at the ends of the bulb. Also, at the ends of the bulb, the sheet may be bent away from the bulb, such that light is reflected to the sides of the box over the ends of the bulb. Alternatively, the screen 508 on the bulb can be window screen of Nylon or metal, which is held in place by translucent mending tape. Another method of cutting unwanted illumination highlights is to place a diffuser 509 or a pattern, perhaps painted, on a bar 510 just in front of the bulb, i.e., between the bulb and transparency. Bar 510 clips to the bulb, as shown. See clip 510a. FIG. 26 shows the sheet of variable aerial density white paint 506 (for variable light transmittance) that can be inserted beneath the transparency, i.e., between the bulb and transparency such that over the bulb 511 the density is highest. This variable density can be silkscreened in any neutral color, such as white, gray, or black paint (the higher the density, the less the light transmittance) . A master for this pattern can be obtained by taking a photograph of the light box illuminated by the bulbs without any transparency, and then making a halftone silkscreen from the photo. Again referring to FIG. 25, bulb 501 may have internal reflectors 511a at its sides facing the transparencies, so that light output is concentrated out the top 513 and bottom 514. See FIG. 25. FIG. 27 shows a fluorescent bulb 501 with a screen 522 thereon, at a side facing the transparency. The screen 522 might be a metal, plastic, or other material which reduces or prevents the passage of light. A mending tape means or other attachment means might be used to attach the screen 522 to the bulb 501. The screen 522 might be painted/printed onto the bulb 501. FIG. 27a might have the painted/printed pattern 523 as a series of dots at various distances apart to control the passage of light through the painted/ printed portion of the bulb 501, so equal or near equal light intensity will occur on the transparency. The painted/printed pattern 523 might use variable density white or other colors of paint/ink to vary and control the light passage from the bulb 501 through the painted/printed pattern 523 to the transparency in order to even or nearly even the light intensity on the transparency. FIG. 28 shows a group of attachments which can be secured to fluorescent bulbs, again to make uniform (i.e., to diffuse) the light reaching the transparency. FIG. 28a shows a flat topped, elongated member 541 with integral attaching C-shaped clips 542 sized to fit over a bulb. Also shown is an alignment extension 543 which can fit into the notch 545a atop the fluorescent bulb holder 545. One of these aligning means can be at both ends of 541, but it is shown only at one end for clarity. On the upper surface 541a of this transparent attachment, a pattern 544 can be painted, or otherwise applied, again in any neutral color. A single-sided diffuser member 550 (i.e., at one side of bulb 501 not shown) in FIG. 28b with bulb attaching clips 552 elongated and diffuser element 553. Alignment feet 554 are shown engaging a curved reflector 555 that fits behind the bulb 501. A double-sided member is shown in FIG. 28c with spaced attaching clips 552 and two diffuser elements 553. Alignment members can be added, and which are similar to members 543 on one side only. This design is used with a light box which has transparencies on two sides of the bulb. FIG. 28d is a side view of a single-sided diffuser element 553 with tapered ends 556, which not only allow more light to be transmitted, but also throw light into the transparency sides, especially above or beyond the ends of the bulb 501. See also clips 552 retaining element 553 to extend generally parallel to one elongated side of the bulb 501. FIG. 28e shows a plastic sheet, screen or opaque tape 508 which is cut and held with mending or self-adhesive tape such that it reflects light over the ends of the bulb. See tapered ends 519. FIG. 28f shows a series of stripes 518 on the fluorescent bulb 501. The stripes restrict the amount of direct light from the fluorescent bulb which can directly illuminate the diffuser and the transparency of the artificial window apparatus. The stripe 518 can be pained on the bulb, can be plastic or foil tape which has an adhesive for attachment to the bulb, or can be rods (natural, plated, or painted) which are fastened to the bulb by a mending tape means or clip means 552, as shown in FIG. 28b. The rod-type of stripes 518 might be round, square, triangular, thin rib-like, or other geometric shapes. The stripes 518 can vary in length to permit more light from the end section of the fluorescent bulb to illuminate the area especially above or beyond the ends of the bulb 501. FIG. 29 shows a single-sided, artificial window in a vertical support 567. The bulbs 561 are shown extending horizontally in front of reflectors 562. In front of the bulbs is a diffuser plate 563, a scene-depicting transparency sheet 564, and clear glass panel 565. A viewer's eye is shown at 566. The vertical panel 567 above and below the artificial window is also shown, and it supports the window elements referred to. Various techniques of applying tape on bulbs, screen on bulbs, diffusers attached to bulbs, plastic with painted pattern attached to bulbs, and variable density white paint can be used to assist in causing uniform illumination of the transparency. Alternatively, edge illumination, such as that shown in FIG. 23, or top illumination, such as that shown in FIG. 24, may be used. At the expense of thinness, the two transparencies 424 and 425 shown in FIG. 21 and FIG. 22 may be illuminated by separate illumination systems, such as shown in FIG. 29, or the other means discussed above, thereby gaining illumination independence, should that be desired.

Claims: CLAIMS : 1. An artificial window comprising in combination a) a box having a rear wall, and side walls bounding an interior space which faces longitudinally forwardly, b) translucent sheet means extending laterally crosswise of said space, and viewable pattern means associated with the sheet means to be illuminated by light passing forwardly from the box interior, c) light source means in or associated with said box, and d) said window also having at least one of the following: i) means associated with at least one of a) , b) and c) for controlling the illumination of the viewable pattern means, as a function of at least one lateral dimension of said one of a) , b) and c) , ii) frame means projecting at the periphery of said space and bounding at least part of the space, said frame means having lengthwise elongated surface extent which tapers sidewardly and forwardly along at least one side of the frame means toward a zone frontwardly of said transparent sheet means to provide an illusion of shortened depth of said space, iii) window sized enclosure means defining interior hollow structure and having first and second openings facing in opposite longitudinal directions, the enclosure means adapted to be supported by a vertical divider panel with the openings facing toward opposite sides of the panel, iv) ventilation means to permit the flow of air over the heated light source components to cool them and to prevent or minimize the build up of heat within the artificial window apparatus. 2. The combination of claim 1 wherein said d) means includes means providing substantial uniformity of illumination of said sheet means. 3. The combination of claim 2 wherein said means providing substantial uniformity of illumination of the sheet means includes at least one of the following: reflecting structures shaped to enhance illumination of lesser illuminated portions of the pattern means, variable light-absorbing zones associated with said sheet means, variable shading of said pattern means, on a transparency, variable thickness of one of said sheet means that comprise a diffuser; variable light reflecting zone associated with the sheet means, - light intensity limiting means mounted on or near light bulbs for controlling that portion of the light passing directly to the sheet means. 4. The combination of claim 2 wherein said means providing substantial uniformity of illumination of the sheet means includes light- absorbing zones on the reflector, and which decrease in width, areal density or light absorbing capacity in directions away from said light source means. 5. The combination of claim 1 wherein said sheet means has edges, and said c) means includes means for locally illuminating at least one of said edges. 6. The combination of claim 1 including sequencing light control means associated with said sheet means for providing a viewable effect characteristic of at least one of the following effects associated with said pattern means: sun, moon, stars, night colors. 7. The combination of claim 6 including a light transmitting pipe associated with said sheet means to produce a local light spot associated with said viewable pattern. 8. The combination of claim 1 including means associated with said light source means for producing at least one of the following viewable effects associated with said pattern means: general lighting, night, dawn, sunrise, partial day full day, sunset, dusk, illumination intensity, illumination color. 9. The combination of claim 8 wherein said last-named means includes at least one of the following associated with said light source means light filter, light shutter, light dimmer. 10. The combination of claim 1 including one or more of the following associated with the viewable pattern means: x,) means for displacing air, x 2 ) scent-producing means, x 3 ) sound-producing means, x 4 ) means for producing a viewable moving horizon, x 5 ) means for producing viewable lights, corresponding to natural lights seen at a location spaced from the box. 11. The combination of claim 1 wherein said sheet means includes first and second translucent sheets, which extend in generally parallel relation. 12. The combination of claim 1 wherein said d) means includes light reflector means in or associated with said box, and at least one light- transmitting bulb. 13. The combination of claim 12 wherein said reflector means is positioned to reflect light from said bulb in a direction toward said sheet means for effecting said illumination of the sheet means. 14. The combination of claim 1 wherein said frame means includes a horizontal sill projecting at lower ends of the vertical sides of the frame. 15. The combination of claim 1 wherein said tapered surface extent defines a bevel. 16. The combination of claim l wherein said box includes a support attachable to the side of a vertical wall, and said frame means is removably attached to said support, said illuminating means including light source means that is carried by said support. 17. The combination of claim 1 including a tapered surface and a mullion structure extending cross-wise of said opening, inwardly of the tapered surface of the frame means. 18. The combination of claim 1 wherein the frame means tapered surface extends continuously from the externally outermost extent of the frame means to a locus generally forwardly of the laterally outermost extent of the transparency. 19. The combination of claim 1 wherein the taper defined by said sidewardly tapering surface extends at an angle of between 30° and 60° relative to said forward direction. 20. The combination of claim 1 wherein said tapered surface extent is, along the majority of its surface, configured to be at least one of the following: i) flat, ii) curved. 21. The combination of claim 1 wherein said transparency means includes two transparency sheets, one facing in one of said directions and the other facing in the other of said directions. 22. The combination of claim 21 wherein said two transparency sheets extend in generally parallel relation and are spaced apart to form a space therebetween in said hollow structure. 23. The combination of claim 22 wherein said illumination means is located to produce light illuminating inner sides of said sheets facing said space. 24. The combination of claim 1 including said vertical panel supporting said enclosure means, said vertical panel being a room divider adjustably movable in a room. 25. The combination of claim 24 wherein said panel defines a through opening receiving said enclosure means. 26. The combination of claim 24 wherein said transparency means extends as a sheet generally parallel to an upright plane defined by said panel. 27. The combination of claim 1 and at least one of the following on the illumination means in the form of light source bulbs, to achieve uniformity: plastic sheet, screen, plastic diffuser with bulb attachment means, plastic with pattern means, thereon and with bulb attachment means, plastic diffuser with aligning means, plastic with pattern means thereon and with aligning means reflector, plastic diffuser with variable density- absorbing material proximate the diffuser, plastic diffuser with variable density reflecting material proximate the diffuser, the bulbs transmit light preferentially in directions other than directly toward the transparency means. 28. The combination of claim 1 wherein said illumination means includes elongated, electrically energized bulb means. 29. The combination of claim 28 wherein said bulb means includes multiple vertically spaced bulbs, said illumination means includes reflector means positioned vertically between successive bulbs. 30. The combination of claim 29 wherein said reflector means has polygonol cross section to present multiple flat sides toward each bulb. 31. The combination of claim 1 wherein said illumination means comprises electrically energized bulb means for transmitting light preferentially in directions other than directly toward the transparency means. 32. The method of forming and operating an artificial window that includes a) providing a film sheet that depicts a landscape, b) mounting said sheet within a box, and supporting said box adjacent the inner side wall of a building room, to simulate a window in that wall from which the landscape might be viewed, c) employing artificial light to provide illumination of the film sheet in such manner that when viewed from the interior of said room, said landscape is depicted, said illumination including back illumination, d) and controlling said illumination to simulate a selected time of day associated with said landscape. 33. The method of claim 32 wherein said d) step includes providing a translucent light diffuser means proximate said film sheet, and transmitting light into said means to travel therein generally parallel to a plane defined by the film sheet. 34. The method of forming and operating an artificial window, that includes a) providing a box having a rear wall, and side walls bounding an interior space, and orienting the box so said space faces longitudinally forwardly, b) providing translucent sheet means and orienting said sheet means to extend laterally crosswise of said space, there being viewable pattern means associated with the sheet means to be illuminated by light passing forwardly from the box interior, c) providing light source means oriented in or associated with said box so that said light passes forwardly to illuminate said translucent sheet means, d) and controlling the resultant illumination of the viewable pattern means, as a function of at least one lateral dimension of said box, said translucent sheet means and said light source means. 35. The method of claim 34 wherein said controlling step includes providing substantially uniformity of illumination of said sheet means. 36. The method of claim 34 wherein said sheet means has edges, and said d) step includes locally controllably illuminating at least one of said edges. 37. In the method of providing window space in a room interior containing upright room divider means, the steps including: a) providing an artificial window with electrical illumination of at least one scene- depicting transparency, b) supporting the artificial window on the room divider means so that the transparency faces the room interior, c) and adjusting the position of the divider means to orient the artificial window to face a portion of the room interior from which a window scene is to be perceived. 38. The method of claim 37 that includes providing said artificial window to have two scene- depicting transparencies facing generally oppositely in the room interior, and orienting the divider to cause said transparencies to respectively face two different portions of the room interior from each of which a window scene is to be perceived. 39. The method of claim 38 including providing an opening in said divider means and installing said artificial window in said opening. 40. The combination of claim 1 and at least one of the following light blocking/limiting means on or near the light source means and controlling the amount of direct light from the light source to illuminate the transparency: screen with attachment means, plastic or foil tape stripe or stripes with attachment means at selected distances apart, painted or printed stripes, painted or printed dot pattern or other geometric shapes at various distances apart, painted or printed variable density paint or ink material; small rods or bars with attached means, the rods to be round, square, triangular, thin rib-like, or other geometric shapes, at selected distances apart; The light blocking/limiting means only covering part of the light source.

Inventors: AHLSTONE ARTHUR G, MCMANIGAL PAUL G, AHLSTONE, ARTHUR, G., MCMANIGAL, PAUL, G.
Applicants: AHLSTONE ARTHUR G, MCMANIGAL PAUL G, AHLSTONE, ARTHUR, G., MCMANIGAL, PAUL, G.
Application year: 1992
Main classification: A47F11
IPC codes: B44C5, E04F13, G09F13, G09F27