Patent Description:
Electronic displays are increasingly replacing physical billboards, bulletins, posters, flyers, banners, and other physical signage for public announcements, advertising, and the like. It is known to provide such physical signage along sidewalks, along roadsides, at bus shelters, on poles, at drive throughs, on vehicle toppers, and the like. Ruggedized displays have also been provided for indoor, outdoor, and semi-outdoor use. Such displays may protect the electronic displays and related components from the elements, vandalism, theft, and the like and may be configured to display public announcements, advertising, and the like. Examples of such displays include those available from Manufacturing Resources International, Inc. of Alpharetta, Georgia (https://mri-inc. These displays may be provided on sidewalks, on the ground, in windows, on sidewalks, at bus shelters, at drive throughs (such as for quick service restaurants ("QSRs")), on the tops of vehicles, and the like to replace physical signage.

Advancements in solar energy technology have made solar panels more compact and efficient. Displays require electrical power for operation. For example, such displays may include lights, electronic displays, fans and other cooling equipment, computing devices, electrical circuitry and other electrically powered equipment which requires electrical power for operation. For ground mounted units, power is generally provided by the electrical grid. Increasing public interest in alternative energy sources, such as solar power, creates a desire for displays which do not draw power from the electrical grid, or at least not as much. Further, the cost to power such displays may be significant.

For vehicle mounted or other mobile units, power is generally supplied by the vehicle battery. While vehicle toppers may provide an extra source of revenue for vehicle drivers or companies, generally by displaying advertising for others, the extra weight of a vehicle topper may reduce fuel efficiency, which negate some or all of the extra revenue. The use of battery power may further provide added strain on battery capacity, particularly where a vehicle is not running.

What is needed is a solar powered display assembly. Solar powered display assemblies, and systems and methods for powering the same, are provided.

Solar powered electronic display assemblies are provided which may be configured for mounting to a sidewalk, to a bench, to a wall, in a window, to a bus shelter, to a ground surface, to a parking lot, to street furniture, at a drive through (e.g., for QSR), to a pole, to a vehicle (e.g., taxi cab, a personal vehicle, a commercial vehicle, a limousine, a town car, a bus, an SUV, a rideshare vehicle, a delivery vehicle, or the like), some combination thereof, or the like. Each electronic display assembly may comprise one or more display units. Any number, type, size, and orientation of such display units may be utilized. One or more solar energy harvesting devices may be provided as part of the assembly and may be in electrical connection with the one or more display units and/or other components of the assemblies.

Solar energy harvesting devices may be mounted or connected to housings for the display units, street furniture, nearby structures, canopies for drive throughs, roof racks or other mounting devices or support structure for vehicles, some combination thereof, or the like. While such solar energy harvesting devices may generally be mounted above the display units, other locations may be utilized to improve visibility, aesthetics, and/or aerodynamics. One or more supports may connect, directly or indirectly, such solar energy harvesting devices to the display units.

The solar energy harvesting devices are located, sized, shaped, and/or otherwise configured to cast shade on at least portions of some or all of the display units. Alternatively, or additionally, the solar energy harvesting devices may be located, sized, shaped, and/or otherwise configured to provide sufficient clearance for performing maintenance efforts to the assemblies. The solar energy harvesting devices have a larger footprint than the display units. The casing of shade may improve the appearance of images displayed at the display units, provide shade for viewers, reduce solar loading, and/or lower brightness requirements, among other benefits.

Power generated by the solar energy harvesting devices may be used to power the display assemblies, or select components thereof such as, when conditions are sufficiently sunny. Excess energy may be stored at one or more energy storage devices (e.g., batteries) and/or returned power sources such as, but not limited to, the power grid. When the power generated by the one or more solar energy harvesting devices is insufficient to power the display assemblies, or select components thereof, energy may be drawn from the one or more energy storage devices and/or other power sources, such as, but not limited to, the power grid.

The display units may be configured to directly accept both AC and DC power. Alternatively, or additionally, the display units may be configured to run entirely on DC power. DC power generated by the solar energy harvesting devices may be supplied directly to the display units. When the power generated by the one or more solar energy harvesting devices is insufficient to power the electronic display assemblies or otherwise meet expected power demands, only the additional energy required may be drawn from alternative power sources. This power may be directly supplied to the display units in AC form, DC form, and/or converted to DC power as needed. This may improve overall energy efficiency of the display assembly.

Further features and advantages of the systems and methods disclosed herein, as well as the structure and operation of various aspects of the present disclosure, are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying figures.

In addition to the features mentioned above, other aspects of the present invention will be readily apparent from the following descriptions of the drawings and exemplary embodiments, wherein like reference numerals across the several views refer to identical or equivalent features, and wherein:.

Various embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, specific details such as detailed configuration and components are merely provided to assist the overall understanding of these embodiments of the present invention. Therefore, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications of the embodiments described herein can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. In addition, descriptions of well-known functions and constructions are omitted for clarity and conciseness.

Embodiments of the invention are described herein with reference to illustrations of idealized embodiments (and intermediate structures) of the invention. Thus, embodiments of the invention should not be construed as limited to the particular shapes of regions illustrated herein but are to include deviations in shapes that result, for example, from manufacturing.

<FIG> illustrate an exemplary VMDU <NUM>. The VMDU <NUM> may be employed to display information to the public along public roadways, such as, for example, advertisements, public service announcements and the like. Further, the VMDU <NUM> may be fabricated in any size and shape, may be mounted to a vehicle <NUM> directly or indirectly, and may be mounted in any orientation (e.g., parallel to the longitudinal dimension of the vehicle <NUM>, angled, and/or otherwise). Further, while the VMDUs <NUM> of <FIG> are shown as being mounted to the roof <NUM> of a vehicle <NUM>, the VMDUs <NUM> may be mounted to other portions of the vehicle <NUM> (e.g., hood and/or trunk) as well.

The vehicle <NUM> may be gasoline powered, hybrid powered (e.g., gasoline and electric), diesel powered, electric powered, fuel cell powered, hydrogen powered, human powered, some combination thereof, and/or the like. Further, the vehicle <NUM> may be any type of vehicle, including for example without limitation, a personal vehicle, a commercial vehicle, a rideshare vehicle, a taxi cab, a limousine, a town car, a bus, an SUV, a sedan, a delivery vehicle, a trailer, a van, a motorcycle, a scooter, a tricycle, or the like.

As shown, the VMDU <NUM> may be indirectly mounted to a vehicle <NUM> by way of a mounting system <NUM>. The mounting system <NUM> may comprise one or more crossbars <NUM>. The crossbars <NUM> may be configured for securement to a roof <NUM> of a vehicle <NUM>. The crossbars <NUM> may be fabricated in any size, shape (e.g., cross-section), and type. The crossbars <NUM> may be configured to provide a sufficient degree of strength and rigidity to securely support the VMDU <NUM>.

The mounting system <NUM> may further comprise one or more bolts, screws, brackets, fasteners, adapters, some combination thereof, or the like for mounting the VMDU <NUM> to the crossbars <NUM> (e.g., mounting the VMDU housing <NUM> to the crossbars <NUM>) and/or the crossbars <NUM> to the vehicle <NUM>. Alternatively, or additionally, adhesive, welding, bonding, some combination thereof, or other joining techniques may be utilized.

One or more supports <NUM>, which may vary in terms of size and shape (e.g., substantially rectangular), are provided. The supports <NUM> extend vertically between the housing <NUM> and each of one or more solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> to elevate a bottom surface of the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> from an upper surface of the VMDU <NUM>. Doing so may facilitate access to the VMDU <NUM>, which may be useful for maintenance and servicing efforts. In one example, the supports <NUM> may be mounted to the housing <NUM> at a first end. The supports <NUM> may be mounted to lifting eyes located on the housing <NUM>. In other exemplary embodiments, the supports <NUM> may extend into or through some or all of the housing <NUM> and may be mounted to one or more internal structural components of the VMDU <NUM> and/or one or more components of the mounting system <NUM> (e.g., onto the crossbars <NUM>). In exemplary embodiments, a first support <NUM> may be placed on a proximal portion of the VMDU <NUM>, and a second support <NUM> may be placed on a distal portion of the VMDU <NUM>. Other quantities and arrangements of supports <NUM> may also be utilized. The mounting of the supports <NUM>, and/or other components described herein, may be performed by fasteners (such as, but not limited to, rivet nuts, bolts, screws, nails, some combination thereof, or the like), adhesives, welding, bonding, some combination thereof, or the like.

In some non-limiting examples, the VMDU <NUM> may comprise one or more side assemblies <NUM>. Each side assembly <NUM> may comprise an electronic display <NUM>. Each side assembly <NUM> may be configured to swing or otherwise rotate, pivot, or move outwardly to facilitate access to the components located inside the side assembly <NUM> and/or other portions of the VMDU <NUM>, which may include signage, cooling pathways, lights, fans, electronic displays, mounting components, structural components, electrical circuitry, various electronics for operating the VMDU <NUM> and/or the solar energy harvesting device <NUM>, some combination thereof, or the like. Each side assembly <NUM> may comprise an electronic display layer, a transparent cover panel, a backlight, some combination thereof, or the like. The backlight may comprise direct backlighting, edge lighting, some combination thereof, or the like. In other exemplary embodiments, a separate backlight may not be required as the electronic display <NUM> may be an emissive type display, such as, but not limited to, organic light emitting diode type displays. The electronic display <NUM> may be any type of electronic display such as, but not limited to, liquid crystal, organic light emitting diode, QLED, light emitting diode, cathode ray tube, plasma, some combination thereof, or the like.

At least <NUM> inches of clearance is provided between an upper surface of the VMDU <NUM> and a lower surface of the solar energy harvesting device <NUM>, though any distance, or varying distances, may be utilized. This clearance is provided to facilitate the casting of shade on the electronic display <NUM>, the VMDU <NUM>, the interior of the vehicle <NUM>, some combination thereof, or the like, thereby preventing the VMDU from experiencing excessive solar (e.g., thermal) loading and/or to provide certain desirable aerodynamic effects.

Stiffeners <NUM> are provided. The stiffeners <NUM> extend horizontally along a lower surface of the substrate <NUM>. The stiffeners <NUM> may extend from either side of each of the one or more supports <NUM>. The stiffeners <NUM> shown extend substantially across the entire width W<NUM> of the solar energy harvesting device <NUM>, but this is not required. In exemplary embodiments, the stiffeners <NUM> may be sandwiched between an upper surface of each of the one or more supports <NUM> and a lower surface of the substrate <NUM>. The stiffeners <NUM> may be provided under some or all of the solar energy harvesting device <NUM> and may provide structural stability, strength, and/or rigidity.

In exemplary embodiments, the solar energy harvesting device <NUM> may be substantially rectangular in shape, though other shapes are also contemplated. The solar energy harvesting device <NUM> has a width W<NUM> that is greater than the width W<NUM> of the housing <NUM>. Additionally the solar energy harvesting device <NUM> has a length L<NUM> that is greater than the length L<NUM> of the housing <NUM>. The width dimensions W<NUM>, W<NUM> and the length dimensions L<NUM>, L<NUM> may be maximum width and length dimensions, respectively, for the solar energy harvesting device <NUM> and the housing <NUM>, respectively. Stated another way, the solar energy harvesting device <NUM> has a larger footprint than the footprint of the housing <NUM>. This may provide for increased surface area for collecting solar energy. This may, additionally or alternatively, shade some or all of the housing <NUM>, various components thereof (such as, but not limited to, the electronic display <NUM>), and/or the vehicle <NUM> when placed in outdoor environments. Such shade may result in better image quality, including, but not limited to, improvised color saturation, contrast, some combination thereof, or the like. This may reduce the brightness levels needed to drive the electronic displays <NUM>, thus resulting in reduced cooling needs. The shade may also decrease the solar loading experienced by the VMDU <NUM>, thus reducing cooling needs.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that any size, shape, number, type, and orientation of the solar energy harvesting device <NUM> may be utilized without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. While L1, L2, W1, and W2 may represent maximum dimensions, one or more of L1, L2, W1, and/or W2 may represent minimum dimensions. For example, without limitation, the minimum dimensions of the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>, W2 and/or L2, may be greater than the maximum dimensions of the housing <NUM>, W1 and/or L1.

The solar energy harvesting device <NUM> may comprise one or more photovoltaic cells <NUM>. The photovoltaic cells <NUM> may be mounted to one or more substrates <NUM>. Normally, the photovoltaic cells <NUM> and/or the substrate <NUM> may comprise rough edges. A side edge <NUM> may be provided around an outer edge of the photovoltaic cells <NUM> and/or the substrate <NUM>. The side edge <NUM> may provide a smoother surface which is safer for pedestrian interaction and is more aesthetically appealing.

One or more antenna <NUM> may be provided at the solar energy harvesting device <NUM>. The antenna <NUM> may be configured to receive and/or transmit radio signals, cellular signals, GPS or other location tracking signals, Bluetooth® or other near field communication signals, some combination thereof, or the like. The antenna(s) <NUM> may be mounted to the substrate <NUM>, wherein a first antenna <NUM> may be provided on a front portion of the substrate <NUM> and a second antenna <NUM> may be provided on a rear portion of the substrate <NUM>. These antenna(s) <NUM> may be centered with respect to the side edges of the substrate <NUM>. While any number and position of antenna <NUM> may be utilized, the configuration of antenna(s) <NUM> shown may minimize obstructions, thereby improving the transmission and/or receipt of signals.

One or more cameras <NUM> may be provided at the solar energy harvesting device <NUM>. The cameras <NUM> may be mounted to the substrate <NUM>. In exemplary embodiments, a first and second camera <NUM> may be provided on the left and right sides of the substrate <NUM>, respectively, and may be centered from the front to the back (though any number and positioning of the cameras <NUM> may be utilized). In other exemplary embodiments, the camera <NUM> may be positioned on a distal end of one or more of the stiffeners <NUM>. Other quantities and positions of the camera(s) <NUM> may also be utilized without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In one non-limiting embodiment, the camera(s) <NUM> may be in electronic communication with the antenna <NUM> (though such is not required) so that images and/or video may be transmitted to an interested party. In operation, this may be performed for one or more of a variety of different purposes, such as, but not limited to, determining which advertisements and/or public service announcements may be appropriate based on the demographics of the people nearby. Additionally, or alternatively, this data may even be used to turn off the electronic displays <NUM> remotely.

The solar energy harvesting device <NUM> may be in electrical connection with various components of the VMDU <NUM>, such as, but not limited to, the electronic displays <NUM> one or more energy storage devices <NUM>. Additionally, or alternatively, the solar energy harvesting device <NUM> may be in electrical connection with one or more energy sources <NUM>. The energy storage device <NUM> may comprise one or more batteries. The energy sources <NUM> may comprise one or more batteries, alternators, some combination thereof, or the like. In exemplary embodiments, the energy storage device <NUM> and the energy source <NUM> may be one and the same, though such is not required.

A controller <NUM> may be interposed between one or more of: the solar energy harvesting device <NUM>, the VMDU <NUM>, the energy storage device <NUM>, and the energy source <NUM>. The controller <NUM> may be configured to determine when to draw power from the energy storage device <NUM> and/or the energy source <NUM>, and when to supply excess energy from the solar energy harvesting device <NUM> to the energy storage device <NUM>.

While certain components, such as, but not limited to, the energy storage device <NUM>, the energy source <NUM>, and the controller <NUM> are illustrated as being located outside of the VMDU <NUM> and the solar energy harvesting device <NUM>, such components may be, partially or entirely, internal to the VMDU <NUM> and/or the solar energy harvesting device <NUM>. In other words, such components may be placed at any location.

The VMDU <NUM> may comprise one or more sensors <NUM> such as, but not limited to, temperature sensors, fan speed sensors, ambient light sensors, accelerometers, some combination thereof, or the like. In this way, the amount of cooling, the brightness of the electronic displays <NUM>, the speed of the fans, some combination thereof, or the like may be adjusted based on ambient temperature, vehicle <NUM> movement, ambient lighting conditions (including, but not limited to, the amount of shade cast), some combination thereof, or the like. Where wireless connectivity is utilized, data may be collected by these sensors <NUM> and may be transmitted to one or more remote parties and/or locations where this type of data is desired.

<FIG> illustrate another exemplary VMDU <NUM>. The VMDU <NUM> may have an elongated shape, which may be better suited for particularly long vehicles <NUM>, such as, but not limited to, limousines, buses, RVs, trailers, and/or the like. In such embodiments, an elongated solar energy harvesting device <NUM> may be provided with multiple supports <NUM> to ensure that the solar energy harvesting device <NUM> (which may also be elongated) is adequately supported. In other exemplary embodiments, multiple solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may be provided in a substantially linear fashion along the VMDU <NUM>. Those skilled in the art will appreciate, however, that any size, number, and arrangement of electronic display <NUM> and/or solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may be utilized for any size and type of vehicle <NUM> without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

The VMDU <NUM> may be substantially rectangular in shape, though VMDUs <NUM> of other sizes and/or shapes may also be utilized. Similarly, the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may be provided in any size, shape, orientation (e.g., flush or mounted at an angle), number, type (e.g., opaque, transparent, or translucent panels), composition (e.g., comprising one or more photovoltaic cells) and/or the like. Further, some or all of the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may even be configured to swivel, pivot, tilt, rotate, some combination thereof, and/or the like. Such movement may be accomplished manually or automatically, such as by motor and controller configured to track the sun's movement.

<FIG> illustrates another exemplary VMDU <NUM>. The VMDU <NUM> may comprise a display unit <NUM> which is separate from, but electrically connected to, the solar energy harvesting device(s) <NUM>. The display unit <NUM> may comprise one or more electronic displays <NUM> located partially, or entirely, within a housing <NUM>. The housing <NUM> may be mounted to the vehicle <NUM>. One or more mounting supports <NUM> may extend from, or within, the housing <NUM> to a portion of the vehicle <NUM> and be secured thereto. For example, without limitation, the display unit <NUM> may be mounted to a rear portion, side portion, front portion, roof, some combination thereof, or the like, of the vehicle <NUM>. Placement of the display unit <NUM> may be selected to improve visibility, provide multiple displays, and/or improve aerodynamics. More than one display unit <NUM> may be provided, each of which may be mounted to the same of different portions of the vehicle <NUM>.

In exemplary embodiments, the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may measure approximately 1x2m, though any size, shape, and number of solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may be utilized. The solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may be mounted to another location of the vehicle <NUM>. In exemplary embodiments, the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> are mounted to a roof portion of the vehicle <NUM>, such as, but not limited to, by way of the crossbars <NUM>, however other locations and types of mounting devices may be utilized. For example, without limitation, solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may be mounted to a rear portion, side portion, front portion, roof, some combination thereof, or the like, of the vehicle <NUM>. Placement of the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may be selected to improve sunlight exposure, provide multiple solar panels, and/or improve aerodynamics. More than one solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may be provided, each of which may be mounted to the same of different portions of the vehicle <NUM>.

An electrical connection, such as by way of wiring, may be provided between the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> and one or more components of the display unit <NUM>, such as, but not limited to, the electronic displays <NUM>. Such connections may extend partially or completely within the crossbars <NUM>, other mounting devices, and/or the mounting supports <NUM>. One or more energy storage devices <NUM>, energy sources <NUM>, and/or controllers <NUM> may be electrically interposed between the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> and the display unit <NUM>. In exemplary embodiments, one or more of the energy storage devices <NUM>, energy sources <NUM>, and/or controllers <NUM> may be provided at the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> and/or the display unit <NUM>.

Any number of type of mounting devices, such as, but not limited to, crossbars <NUM>, mounting supports <NUM>, supports <NUM>, members, adhesive, fasteners, welding, ties, some combination thereof, and the like may be utilized to secure the VMDU <NUM>, including, but not limited to, each of the display units <NUM> and each of the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> to various portions of the vehicle <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a top sectional view of an exemplary cooling system for the VMDU <NUM>. The VMDU <NUM> comprises one or more cooling pathways. Such cooling pathways may comprise openings configured to ingest and exhaust ambient air <NUM> into and out of one or more open loop pathways <NUM>. In exemplary embodiments, the open loop pathways <NUM> may pass along backlights for the electronic displays <NUM>. Such cooling pathways may include, additionally or alternatively, closed loop pathways <NUM> located entirely within the VMDU <NUM> for circulating gas <NUM>. In exemplary embodiments, the closed loop pathways <NUM> may encircle the electronic display(s) <NUM> by passing through a gap between the transparent cover panel and the electronic display <NUM> of a given side assembly <NUM>. Further, various components may be positioned within either one of the closed loop and the open loop pathways <NUM>, <NUM>. For example, one or more electronic components for operating the VMDU <NUM> may be provided within or along the closed loop pathways <NUM>. One or more fans may be provided within or along the open loop pathways <NUM> to force ambient air therethrough. One or more fans <NUM> may be provided within or along the closed loop pathways <NUM> to force circulating gas therethrough. A heat exchanger <NUM> may be provided, preferably behind the electronic display(s) <NUM>, to permit heat transfer between the relatively warm circulating gas <NUM> in the closed loop pathways <NUM> and the relatively cool ambient air <NUM> in the open loop pathways <NUM>.

<FIG> provides a flowchart with exemplary logic for operating the VMDU <NUM> and related components. The controller <NUM> may determine the amount of power needed to operate the VMDU <NUM>. This determination may be made, at least in part, based on readings from the sensors <NUM>, operational data from the VMDU <NUM>, historical information, predictions, some combination thereof, or the like. During sufficiently sunny conditions, the controller <NUM> may be configured to direct power collected from the solar energy harvesting device <NUM> to the VMDU <NUM>. If excess energy is collected, the controller <NUM> may be configured to direct such excess power to the one or more energy storage devices <NUM>. If insufficient energy is provided from the solar energy harvesting device <NUM>, such as during nighttime or cloudy conditions, the controller <NUM> may be configured to direct energy from the one or more energy storage devices <NUM> and/or the energy sources <NUM> to VMDU <NUM>. In this way, the VMDU <NUM> may be periodically, or continuously, powered by the solar energy harvesting device <NUM>. For certain vehicles <NUM>, this may result in improved gas mileage, though such is not required.

The controller <NUM> may be configured to monitor electrical draw from the VMDU <NUM>. The controller <NUM> may, alternatively or additionally, be configured to monitor electrical generation from the solar energy harvesting device <NUM>. Electrical draw and production may be monitored in the form of one or more of the following: current, wattage, voltage, some combination thereof, or the like. The controller <NUM> may, alternatively or additionally, be configured to monitor one or more of the following: ambient lighting conditions (by way of one or more ambient light sensors <NUM>), forecasted weather conditions (by way of network accessible weather data accessed by way of a network connectivity device <NUM>), current or forecasted electrical billing rates (by way of network accessible rate data accessed by way of a network connectivity device <NUM>), user preferences (received by way of the network connectivity device <NUM>), some combination thereof, or the like. In utilizing such information, the controller <NUM> may be configured to determine which energy source(s) <NUM> to draw from.

In exemplary embodiments, the electrical systems may be entirely direct current ("DC"). For example, without limitation, the VMDU <NUM>, the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>, the energy storage devices <NUM>, the energy sources <NUM>, the controller <NUM>, some combination thereof, or the like may be configured to operate solely using DC power. The components and power utilized herein may, in exemplary embodiments without limitation, exclusively utilize direct current power such that no AC-DC or DC-AC inverters or the like are required.

<FIG> provides a flowchart with exemplary logic for operating the VMDU <NUM> and related components. The controller <NUM> may determine the amount of power required to operate the VMDU <NUM>. This determination may be made, at least in part, based on readings from the sensors <NUM>, operational data from the VMDU <NUM>, historical information, predictions, some combination thereof, or the like. During sufficiently sunny conditions, the controller <NUM> may be configured to direct power collected from the solar energy harvesting device <NUM> to the VMDU <NUM>. Where sufficient energy is collected, the controller <NUM> may be configured to power the VMDU <NUM> only with energy generated by the one or more solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>. Where the power generated by the one or more solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> is insufficient to power the VMDU <NUM>, the controller <NUM> may be configured to supplement the power supplied by the one or more solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> with power from the one or more energy storage devices <NUM>. In this way, power may be drawn from the energy storage devices <NUM> and/or energy sources <NUM>. Power may be drawn from the energy storage devices <NUM> and/or energy sources <NUM> only when needed, and only as much as needed to supplement the power generated by the one or more solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> to meet the power requirements of the VMDU <NUM>. In this way, the burden on the energy storage devices <NUM> and/or energy sources <NUM> may be reduced or eliminated. Furthermore, the VMDU <NUM> may be periodically, continuously, partially, or wholly powered by the solar energy harvesting device <NUM>. For certain vehicles <NUM>, this may result in improved gas mileage, among other benefits, though such is not required. This may also reduce environmental impact of the VMDU <NUM>.

The controller <NUM> may be configured to monitor electrical draw and/or needs for the VMDU <NUM>. The controller <NUM> may, alternatively or additionally, be configured to monitor electrical production from the solar energy harvesting device <NUM>. Electrical draw, needs, and/or production may be monitored by measuring one or more of the following: current, wattage, voltage, some combination thereof, or the like. The controller <NUM> may, alternatively or additionally, be configured to monitor one or more of the following: ambient lighting conditions (by way of one or more ambient light sensors <NUM>), forecasted weather conditions (by way of network accessible weather data accessed by way of a network connectivity device <NUM>), current or forecasted electrical billing rates (by way of network accessible rate data accessed by way of a network connectivity device <NUM>), user preferences (received by way of the network connectivity device <NUM>), some combination thereof, or the like. The controller <NUM> may be configured to utilize such information to determine which energy source(s) <NUM> to utilize.

Operations of the VMDU <NUM> may be adjusted to raise or lower power requirements of the VMDU <NUM>. For example, without limitation, where the power required for VMDU <NUM> operations is less than the power generated by the solar energy harvesting device <NUM>, certain operations may be adjusted such as, but not limited to, increasing backlight levels to improve image quality. As another example, without limitation, where the power required for VMDU <NUM> operations is greater than the power generated by the solar energy harvesting device <NUM> by a predetermined amount, certain operations may be adjusted, such as, but not limited to, by decreasing backlight levels such that the solar energy harvesting device <NUM> may fully or more completely power the VMDU <NUM>.

In exemplary embodiments, the electrical systems may be entirely direct current ("DC"). For example, without limitation, the VMDU <NUM>, the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>, the energy storage devices <NUM>, the energy sources <NUM>, the controller <NUM>, some combination thereof, or the like may be configured to operate using DC power. The components and power utilized herein may, in exemplary embodiments without limitation, exclusively utilize direct current power such that no AC-DC or DC-AC inverters or the like are required.

<FIG> and <FIG> illustrate exemplary bus shelter assemblies <NUM>. The bus shelter assembly <NUM> may comprise one or more members <NUM> forming the structure of the bus shelter assembly <NUM>. One or more feet <NUM> may be provided for attaching the bus shelter assembly <NUM> to a sidewalk, the ground, a parking lot, or the like. One or more panels <NUM> may be located along a rear wall of the bus shelter assembly <NUM>. The panels <NUM> may be located between at least two of the members <NUM>. The panels <NUM> may be comprised of an opaque, transparent, or translucent material. Any design, type, or style of bus shelter assembly <NUM> may be utilized.

The bus shelter assembly <NUM> may comprise one or more display units <NUM>. The display units <NUM> may be configured to display, for example, advertisements, public service announcements, and the like. These display units <NUM> may include displays of any type, size, orientation, and/or shape without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Further, these display units <NUM> may be mounted at any suitable location on the bus shelter assembly <NUM> such as, for example, on either side of the bus shelter assembly <NUM> and/or to the members <NUM>.

One or more solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may be mounted along, or may form, the roof of the bus shelter assembly <NUM>. Where members <NUM> are provided that form the structure of the roof, the solar energy harvesting device <NUM> may be mounted onto said members <NUM>. The solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may provide shade, rain, and other weather protection for individuals using the bus shelter assembly <NUM>. In exemplary embodiments, the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may extend over one or more of the display units <NUM> to provide at least partial shade to the display units <NUM>. Though the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may be employed to provide shade, the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may be opaque. However, in other exemplary embodiments, the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may be transparent and/or translucent.

Various roof members <NUM> may be located between the individual panels of the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> to provide structural support and rigidity. As such, it is generally contemplated that said roof members <NUM> may be of sufficient strength, rigidity, and other material properties so as to provide such structural support and rigidity. In one or more examples, the roof members <NUM> may be configured to support the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> at an angle to improve solar energy gathering.

An electrical pathway <NUM> may be provided between the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> and the display units <NUM>. Through this electrical pathway <NUM>, electrical energy generated by the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may be routed to the display units <NUM> to power the same. A controller <NUM> may be located along the electrical pathway <NUM> and configured to direct the flow of electrical energy, depending on where it is needed. For example, the controller <NUM> may be configured to direct the display units <NUM> to utilize electrical energy from the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>, an electrical grid <NUM>, some combination thereof, and/or the like. Alternatively, or additionally, the controller <NUM> may be configured to monitor electrical draw from the display units <NUM> and/or electrical production from the solar energy harvesting device <NUM>. Electrical draw and production may be monitored (e.g., quantified) using any suitable measurement value such as, for example without limitation, micro-watts. In monitoring this information, the controller <NUM> may be configured to determine which energy source(s) to utilize for one or more components of the bus shelter assembly <NUM>.

One or more sensors <NUM> may be utilized to detect the power generated by the solar energy harvesting device <NUM>. Data from the sensors <NUM> may be used by the controller <NUM> to control operations. The electrical pathway <NUM>, the controller <NUM>, and the sensors <NUM> may be located internally within the display units <NUM>, one or more of the members <NUM>, the solar energy harvesting device <NUM>, other components of the bus shelter assembly <NUM>, or may be external to the bus shelter assembly <NUM>. The controller <NUM> may be interposed between the display units <NUM>, the electrical grid <NUM>, and the solar energy harvesting device <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate exemplary sidewalk assemblies <NUM>. The sidewalk assemblies <NUM> may be configured for placement in any suitable location, such as sidewalks, parking lots, and/or other public places, and may be mounted to the ground, a sidewalk, a parking lot, a wall, a building, or another structure or surface. Each surface mounted assembly <NUM> may include one or more display units <NUM>, support members <NUM>, and solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>. Further, each display unit <NUM> may include one or more electronic displays.

Sidewalk assemblies <NUM> having more than one display unit <NUM> may position said display units <NUM> in any suitable arrangement. For example, without limitation, a single, double, triple, or quadruple sided set of display units <NUM> may be provided in a given surface mounted assembly <NUM>. Similarly, the electronic displays within each display unit <NUM> may also be positioned in any suitable arrangement. Any number, size, arrangement, and type of electronic displays may be utilized. Further, each electronic display may be provided in the same or a separate display unit <NUM>, which may be physically connected to one another such as in a triangular or rectangular shape.

One or more support members <NUM> may extend above the display units <NUM> to one or more solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>. Practically speaking, the support member(s) <NUM> support the weight the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> and, as such, should generally comprise the strength and rigidity required to do so. The support members <NUM> may be assembled in any suitable arrangement. For example, the support member <NUM> may extend from an upper surface of a housing <NUM>. In another example, the support members <NUM> may be anchored within the display units <NUM> or other components of the surface mounted assembly <NUM>.

The one or more solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may have a maximum first dimension D1 which extends beyond the maximum second dimension D2 of the surface mounted assembly <NUM>. The dimensions D1 and D2 may be depth of the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> and the surface mounted assembly <NUM>, respectively. Alternatively, or additionally, the one or more solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may have a maximum third dimension D3 which extends beyond the maximum fourth dimension D4 of the surface mounted assembly <NUM>. The dimensions D3 and D4 may be width of the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> and the surface mounted assembly <NUM>, respectively. Stated another way, the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may have a footprint which extends beyond the footprint of the surface mounted assembly <NUM>. In this way, the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may shade some or all of the display units <NUM> of the surface mounted assembly <NUM>. While D1, D2, D3, and D4 may represent maximum dimensions, one or more of D1, D2, D3, and/or D4 may represent minimum dimensions. For example, without limitation, the minimum dimensions of the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>, D1 and/or D3, may be greater than the maximum dimensions of the surface mounted assembly <NUM>, D2 and D4. For example, without limitation, the footprint of the solar energy harvesting device <NUM> may be at least twice as large as the footprint of the display assembly <NUM>. The solar energy harvesting device <NUM> may positioned directly above the display assembly <NUM>. The footprint of the solar energy harvesting device <NUM> may overlie the footprint of the display assembly <NUM>.

The solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may extend laterally. Stated another way, the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may extend along the width of the display units <NUM>. Stated yet another way, the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may extend from left to right or right to left when viewed from the front or rear. Alternatively, or additionally, the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may be oriented to extend towards or away from an intended viewer of the display units <NUM> when viewed from the front or rear. Stated another way, the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may extend along the depth of the display units <NUM> when viewed from the front or rear. Stated yet another way, the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may extend into or out of the page when viewed from the front or rear of the surface mounted assembly <NUM>.

Any number of solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may be provided in any orientation. For example, without limitation, two of the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may be provided to extend in parallel to one another. As another example, without limitation, the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may extend both laterally and towards and way from an intended viewer of the display units <NUM>. As yet another example, without limitation, multiple solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may be provided in a fanned array such that some of the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> extend in different directions compared to other solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> for the surface mounted assembly <NUM>. Other orientations may be employed without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

In exemplary embodiments, the sidewalk assemblies <NUM> may each comprise an upper portion <NUM>, an electronic display layer portion <NUM>, and a lower portion <NUM>. In exemplary embodiments, the controller <NUM> may be located in the lower portion <NUM>. In other exemplary embodiments, the controller <NUM>, may be located in electronic display layer portion <NUM>, such as, but not limited to, within a sealed plenum between a front facing and rear facing electronic display layer. Such components may be protected from flooding and/or contaminates in the ambient air. In yet another example, the upper portion <NUM> may be comprised of material configured to permit radio and/or other signals to enter and exiting the upper portion <NUM>. Communication equipment may be placed in the upper portion <NUM> to further increase the ability to transmit and receive signals. The electrical pathway <NUM> may extend through one or more of the support members <NUM> to place in electrical communication one or more components of the surface mounted assembly <NUM>, regardless of which portion <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> they are located in. Accordingly, in one or more examples, the support member <NUM> may be hollow to accommodate the necessary wiring. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other locations and configurations for such components may be utilized without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

<FIG> though <FIG> illustrate exemplary pole mounted assemblies <NUM>. The pole mount assemblies <NUM> may each comprise a pole <NUM>, one or more display units <NUM>, and one or more solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>.

The pole <NUM> may comprise any shape, and may be mounted in any location. For example, without limitation, the pole <NUM> may be mounted to the ground, a sidewalk, a building, or other structure or surface. The pole <NUM> may comprise a circular, triangular, rectangular, square, hexagonal, octagonal cross-section, some combination thereof, and/or the like. The pole <NUM> may comprise a pre-existing pole, having a pre-existing function, that was simply adapted into a pole mounted assembly. The pole <NUM> may comprise a light pole, a flag pole, a support pole, a column, some combination thereof, and/or the like.

One or more display units <NUM> may be mounted to the pole <NUM> in any orientation. For example, without limitation, one, two, three, or four display units <NUM> may be mounted to the pole <NUM>, and may be evenly spaced around the pole <NUM>, though such is not required. These display units <NUM> may be similar or different in size and/or shape (e.g., substantially cuboid in shape and/or comprising rounded edges). In exemplary embodiments, the display units <NUM> may be mounted to the pole <NUM> in a flag orientation wherein a side surface of the housing for the display units <NUM> is mounted to the pole <NUM>. If more than one display units <NUM> are to be mounted, such display units <NUM> may be mounted parallel to one another on opposing sides of the pole <NUM>. One or more of the display units <NUM> may, alternatively, or additionally, be flush mounted to the pole <NUM> wherein a rear surface of the housing for the display units <NUM> may be mounted to the pole <NUM>. Where more than one display unit <NUM> is mounted to the pole <NUM>, such display units <NUM> may be in a back-to-back arrangement on opposing sides of the pole <NUM>. Combinations of flush mounted display units <NUM> and flag mounted display units <NUM> may be utilized on a given pole <NUM>. A mounting fixture <NUM> may extend from each of the display units <NUM> to the pole <NUM>. In exemplary embodiments, the mounting fixture <NUM> may be attached to the housing for the display units <NUM>. Alternatively, or additionally, the mounting fixture <NUM> may be attached to internal structural components of the display units <NUM> and may extend through the housing for the display units <NUM>. At least one surface of the mounting fixture <NUM> may be configured to substantially match the shape of the pole <NUM>. For example, without limitation, the mounting fixture <NUM> may comprise a plate for mounting to a pole <NUM> having a flat outer surface for mounting to the display unit <NUM> and a curved inner surface for mounting to a curved pole <NUM>.

The mounting fixture <NUM> may comprise a collar 77B configured to wrap around some or all of the outer surface of the pole <NUM>. The mounting fixture <NUM> may, alternatively, or additionally, comprise members, fasteners, nuts, receivers, bolts, screws, nails, adhesive, weld material, straps, some combination thereof, or the like. Attachment of the display units <NUM> to the pole <NUM> may be performed by wrapping straps around the pole <NUM>, drilling holes in the pole <NUM>, fastening, bolting, screwing, nailing, welding, bonding, or otherwise attaching the display units <NUM> to the pole <NUM>. Any type, shape, or size mounting fixture <NUM> may be utilized. Any type of attachment technique may be utilized.

The display units <NUM> may comprise one or more peripheral devices <NUM>. Such peripheral devices <NUM> may include, but is not limited to, network connectivity devices, power modules, microphones, cameras, antenna, ambient light sensors, ambient temperature sensors, air quality monitors, some combination thereof, and/or the like. Such peripheral devices <NUM> may be provided in a dome, a protrusion, or other structure along an upper, lower, or side surface of the housing for the display units <NUM>.

One or more solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may be mounted to the pole <NUM>. Such solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may be mounted above the display units <NUM>, though such solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may be mounted at any location. In exemplary embodiments, the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may extend at an angle from the pole <NUM>. The solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may extend perpendicular to the ground. The support structures <NUM> may comprise one or more collars 77A, 77B which wrap around the pole <NUM>.

The solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may extend from the same or a different side of the pole <NUM> as the display units <NUM>. An upper and lower edge of the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may extend parallel with an upper and lower edge of the display units <NUM>, though such is not required. The solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may be oriented on the pole <NUM> to cast shade of the display units <NUM> during some or all of the day.

<FIG> illustrate exemplary canopy assemblies <NUM>. Canopies <NUM> of any size or style may be utilized, though it is generally contemplated that canopies <NUM> may preferably be sized and shaped to extend (e.g., horizontally) over some or all of a vehicle <NUM> located adjected to the canopy assembly <NUM>. In this way, the canopy <NUM> may provide shade to some or all of the display units, as well as to some or all of the vehicle <NUM>, thereby also preventing rain from entering the vehicle <NUM> when a window of the vehicle is rolled down.

The canopy assemblies <NUM> may include a vertically extending member <NUM> which extends from the ground to a position along the canopy <NUM> (or the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>, discussed below) where the vertically extending member <NUM> may securely support the size and weight of the canopy <NUM> and/or the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> (e.g., relatively near the center instead of the periphery of the canopy). Accordingly, it is generally contemplated that the vertically extending member <NUM> may comprise the necessary strength and/or rigidity required to do so.

One or more display units <NUM> may be mounted to the canopy assembly <NUM> or otherwise provided nearby, and may differ in terms of size, arrangement, and composition. In exemplary embodiments, the display units <NUM> may be mounted to the vertical member <NUM>. The display units <NUM> may be configured to provide digital menu boards. One or more solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may be mounted to the upper portion of the canopy assembly <NUM>. Such solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may be mounted flush with an upper surface of the canopy assembly <NUM>. Such solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may be mounted at an angle to the upper surface of the canopy assembly <NUM>.

The solar energy harvesting device(s) <NUM> may be provided either additionally or alternatively to the canopy <NUM>, and may be transparent or translucent. If provided in addition, the solar energy harvesting device(s) <NUM> may be mounted on top of the canopy <NUM>, or elsewhere. Any suitable orientation may be employed, such as where the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> are flush with an upper surface of the canopy assembly <NUM> and/or where the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> are mounted at an angle to the upper surface of the canopy assembly <NUM>. Other orientations and/or combinations of orientations are also contemplated.

Any of the display units <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, may be single sided, double sided, and/or the like. In another example, each of the display units <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may comprise liquid crystal displays, plasma displays, organic light emitting diode displays, light emitting diode displays, rear projection displays, cathode ray display, some combination thereof, and/or the like. The electronic display(s) within the display units <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be provided in any number, size, shape, type, orientation (e.g., landscape or portrait), and/or the like without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Further, such display units <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may comprise backlights, such as, but not limited to, direct backlights, edge lights, some combination thereof, or the like. Alternatively, or additionally, such display units <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may also comprise emissive displays. As configured, said display units <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be programmed to display any type of information/image/video. In yet another example, each of the display units <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may, alternatively, or additionally, include poster holders that may include a compartment configured to accommodate signage such as posters, artwork, signage, changeable letter boards, some combination thereof, and/or the like. The compartment may be defined between a transparent cover panel and the electronic display (and/or a poster) within a display unit housing. The poster holders may further include an illumination device for illuminating the signage deposited therein.

The display units <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be substantially rectangular in shape, though any size and shape may be utilized. The display units <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may comprise one or more cooling pathways. Such cooling pathways may comprise openings configured to ingest and exhaust ambient air and move such ambient air though open loop pathways. In exemplary embodiments, such open loop pathways may extend along backlights for the display units <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. Such cooling pathways may include, additionally, or alternatively, closed loop pathways located entirely within the display units <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> for circulating gas. In exemplary embodiments, the closed loop pathways may encircle the electronic displays of the display units <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> by passing the circulating gas through a gap between the transparent cover panel and the electronic display surface. One or more electronic components for operating the display units <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be provided within, along, or adjacent to the closed loop pathways. Such electronic components may comprise the peripheral devices <NUM>, video players, power supplies, controllers, network connectivity devices, antenna, computers, some combination thereof, or the like. One or more fans may be provided within or along the open loop pathways to force ambient air therethrough. One or more fans may be provided within or along the closed loop pathways to force circulating gas therethrough. A heat exchanger may be provided, preferably behind one or more of the display units <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> to permit heat transfer between the relatively warm circulating gas in the closed loop pathway and the relatively cool ambient air in the open loop pathway.

Any of the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> may utilize opaque, transparent, and/or translucent panels, and may be provided in any size, shape, orientation (e.g., flush or mounted at an angle), number, type, and/or the like. These solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> may comprise any number of photovoltaic cells. Some or all of the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> may be configured to swivel, pivot, tilt, rotate, some combination thereof, or the like. Such movement may be accomplished manually or automatically, such as by motor and controller configured to track the sun's movement.

While the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> may be shown or described herein as being mounted on, or otherwise associated with, various structures, such as, but not limited to, the bus shelter assembly <NUM>, the surface mounted assembly <NUM>, the pole mounted assemblies <NUM>, and the canopy assemblies <NUM>, some or all of such solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> may, alternatively, or additionally, be positioned elsewhere such as, without limitation, on the adjacent ground, on a nearby structure (e.g., roof or pole), some combination thereof, or the like. This may permit improved position for efficient collection of solar energy as well as the ability to use an expanded surface area for powering the units.

<FIG> provides a flowchart with exemplary logic for operating the various assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and related components. The controller <NUM> may determine the amount of power needed to operate the assembly <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. This determination may be performed by the controller <NUM> and may be based, at least in part, on readings from the sensors <NUM>, operational data from the assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, historical information, predictions, some combination thereof, or the like. The amount of electrical energy collected by the solar energy harvesting device <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be determined. The solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be located at least <NUM> ft. above the ground surface, though any height may be utilized. The controller <NUM> may be configured to determine if the energy collected is greater than or equal to the power needed. If yes, the controller <NUM> may be configured to power the assembly <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> only with the power collected by the solar energy harvesting device <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. If no, the controller <NUM> may be configured to draw all available energy from the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and draw supplemental power from the electrical grid <NUM> sufficient to power the assembly <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>.

In one non-limiting example, power generated by the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be used to power the display units <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> when conditions are sufficiently sunny. In this example, the power generated by the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be greater than or equal to the power needed to operate the assembly. If there is excess energy, that energy may be transmitted back into the electrical grid <NUM>.

In another non-limiting example, the power generated by the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be insufficient to operate the display units <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. This may occur, for example, when the solar energy harvesting devices is not receiving enough solar energy (e.g., too cloudy, obstructions blocking sunlight, debris on the solar energy harvesting devices, etc.). In which case, the assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may draw energy from the electrical grid <NUM>, but preferably only to the extent it is needed to compensate for the insufficient amount of energy generated by the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>.

For example, without limitation, power generated by the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be used to power the display units <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> when conditions are sufficiently sunny. Excess energy, if any, may be transmitted back into the electrical grid <NUM>, though such is not required.

The use of energy collected by the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may reduce the environmental impact of the assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> by reducing the degree to which said assemblies rely on the electrical grid <NUM>. The use of such solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may serve as a more environmentally sustainable, alternative energy source. The display units <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be periodically, or continuously, powered by the solar energy harvesting device <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. Alternatively, or additionally, the assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may generate revenue by placing electricity back into the electrical grid <NUM>.

Bulk energy storage devices <NUM>, such as batteries, super capacitors, ultra-capacitors, and the like, are commonly used to store energy. The solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may store energy in the bulk energy storage devices <NUM> when the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are generating a surplus of energy (e.g., such as when it is sunny). Then, when the energy generated by the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> starts to diminish (e.g., such as when it is dark), stored energy within the bulk energy storage devices <NUM> may be used to provide power.

In exemplary embodiments of the assemblies, however, no bulk energy storage devices <NUM> are used. Such bulk energy devices <NUM> can be seen as a liability as they, for example, without limitation, may comprise flammable materials, may require rare earth materials, may take up physical space within the assembly, may require periodic replacement, to name a few examples, without limitation. Because the assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of the present disclosure are capable of drawing supplemental energy from the electrical grid <NUM>, in exemplary embodiments, such bulk energy storage devices <NUM> are not required.

In exemplary embodiments, no AC-DC converters are required. For example, without limitation, the display units <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be configured to directly accept both AC and DC power, though such is not required. In exemplary embodiments, the display units <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be configured to directly accept DC power generated by the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and the display units <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be configured to directly accept AC power generated by the electrical grid <NUM>. Inverters may be provided where required to convert between AC and DC power.

<FIG> illustrates a schematic illustration of an exemplary embodiment of an assembly <NUM>. The assembly <NUM> may comprise a solar panel array <NUM> having two or more solar panels. The assembly <NUM> may comprise two or more electronic displays <NUM>. The assembly <NUM> may comprise a DC/DC power supply <NUM> for each electronic display <NUM>. The assembly <NUM> may comprise an AC/DC power supply <NUM>. A controller <NUM> may be placed in electronic communication with the AC/DC power supply <NUM>, the solar panel array <NUM>, and the display unit <NUM>. The AC/DC power supply <NUM> in exemplary embodiments, without limitation, may comprise the electrical grid <NUM>. In operation, the solar panel array may supply power to the controller <NUM> (e.g., <NUM>-<NUM> volts) via a perfect diode (or an ideal diode). The controller <NUM> may then direct this power to the AC/DC power supply (e.g., <NUM> volts) via another perfect diode, and/or also to the DC/DC power supplies within the displays (e.g., <NUM>-<NUM> volts).

While certain references are made herein with regards to the assembly <NUM> and display unit <NUM>, the same or similar arrangement may be utilized with regard to the various assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and related components.

<FIG> illustrates another exemplary surface mounted assembly <NUM>'. The surface mounted assembly <NUM>' may be similar to, and/or may comprise some or all of the same components as the surface mounted assembly <NUM>. The surface mounted assembly <NUM>' may comprise one or more solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>'. The solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>' may be the same, or similar to, the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> previously shown and/or described herein. In exemplary embodiments, the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>' may comprise multiple solar panels mounted at an angle to one another, such as but not limited forming a "V" shape. The surface mounted assembly <NUM>' may comprise an upper portion <NUM>' which may be the same or similar to the upper portion <NUM>, though such is not required. The surface mounted assembly <NUM>' may comprise a display layer portion <NUM>' which may be the same or similar to the display layer portion <NUM>, though such is not required.

<FIG> illustrates another exemplary surface mounted assembly <NUM>". The surface mounted assembly <NUM>" may be similar to, and/or may comprise some or all of the same components as the surface mounted assembly <NUM> and/or <NUM>'. The surface mounted assembly <NUM>" may comprise one or more solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>". The solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>" may be the same, or similar to, the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> and/or <NUM>' previously shown and/or described herein. In exemplary embodiments, the solar energy harvesting devices <NUM>" may comprise multiple solar panels mounted at an angle to one another, such as but not limited forming a "V" shape. The surface mounted assembly <NUM>" may comprise a display layer portion <NUM>" which may be the same or similar to the display layer portion <NUM>, though such is not required.

<FIG> is an exemplary electrical schematic. The solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may be placed in electrical connection with the controller <NUM>. The controller <NUM> may be in electrical connection with the utility power supply <NUM>, such as, but not limited to, by way of an AC input <NUM>. An inverter <NUM> may be electrically interposed between the AC input <NUM> and an AC output <NUM> to convert AC power to DC power as required. The controller <NUM> may be electrically connected to one or more energy storage devices <NUM> for storing excess energy and disbursing such excess energy as instructed by the controller <NUM>. The energy storage devices <NUM> may be in electrical connection with an DC output <NUM>.

The DC output <NUM> may be placed in electrical connection with one or more display units <NUM>. The DC power may be received at a DC/DC power supply <NUM>. The DC/DC power supply <NUM> may distribute DC power to backlights <NUM> and/or various electrical components <NUM> of the display unit <NUM>, the display layer portion <NUM>, and/or other various components of the assembly <NUM> such as, but not limited to, sensors, fans, cooling devices, customer equipment, electronics, any combination thereof, or the like.

While certain references are made herein with regards to the assembly <NUM> and display unit <NUM>, the same or similar arrangement may be utilized with regard to the various assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>", <NUM>, <NUM> and related components.

Exemplary electrical efficiencies are provided at <FIG> by way of non-limiting example to demonstrate the increase in efficiency realized by utilizing a DC/DC system. Such efficiencies may be based on simulated weather conditions based on historical weather and other environmental considerations for a given location.

<FIG> is another exemplary electrical schematic. The solar energy harvesting devices <NUM> may be placed in electrical connection with the controller <NUM>. The controller <NUM> may be in electrical connection with the utility power supply <NUM>, such as, but not limited to, by way of an AC/DC power supply <NUM>. The AC/DC power supply <NUM>, in exemplary embodiments, may comprise one or more inverters <NUM> for converting AC energy from the utility power supply <NUM> to DC power as required. The controller <NUM> may be electrically connected to a DC/DC power supply <NUM>. The DC/DC power supply <NUM> may distribute DC power to backlights <NUM> and/or various electrical components <NUM> of the display layer portion <NUM> and/or other various components of the assembly <NUM> such as, but not limited to, the display unit <NUM>, sensors, fans, cooling devices, customer equipment, electronics, any combination thereof, or the like.

While certain references are made herein with regards to the assembly <NUM> and display layer portion <NUM>, the same or similar arrangement may be utilized with regard to the various assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>", <NUM>, <NUM> and related components.

Any embodiment of the present invention may include any of the features of the other embodiments of the present invention. The exemplary embodiments herein disclosed are not intended to be exhaustive or to unnecessarily limit the scope of the invention. The exemplary embodiments were chosen and described in order to explain the principles of the present invention so that others skilled in the art may practice the invention. Having shown and described exemplary embodiments of the present invention, those skilled in the art will realize that many variations and modifications may be made to the described invention.

Claim 1:
A solar powered, vehicle mounted display unit (VMDU) (<NUM>) for a vehicle (<NUM>), said VMDU comprising:
an electronic display (<NUM>);
a housing (<NUM>) for said electronic display, wherein said housing is is mounted to a first and second cross bar installed to said vehicle such that said first and second crossbars (<NUM>) extend laterally across a roof of said vehicle and said housing extends longitudinally along the roof of said vehicle when installed to said first and second crossbars;
a solar energy harvesting device (<NUM>) located above, and spaced apart from, said housing, wherein said solar energy harvesting device is electrically connected to said electronic display; support members (<NUM>) extending between said housing and said solar energy harvesting device to support said solar energy harvesting device in an elevated position above, and spaced apart from, said housing to create a void between at least part of said solar energy harvesting device and said housing and cause said solar energy harvesting device to at least periodically cast shade on said electronic display; and
stiffeners (<NUM>) extending along a lowermost surface of the solar energy harvesting device;
wherein said housing defines a first footprint, said solar energy harvesting device defines a second footprint, said second footprint is larger than, and directly and completely overlies, said first footprint such that;
an outer perimeter of said second footprint extends beyond an outer perimeter of said first footprint in both a lateral and a longitudinal direction.