A method of powering and controlling large, multi-segmented, electroluminescent displays

Author

David Christian Callier

Abstract

"Electroluminescent (EL) displays have existed for the past few years. They are often used in advertisements of products, businesses, or general "state” signs such as "Open” or "Closed”. These signs are often a single EL segment that remains lit when plugged in. Market analysts realize that a flashy or catchy sign is a proven method to attract more consumers to products or customers to businesses. Very few companies can produce EL displays with multiple segments, and those that can manage at best to only turn segments on and off to increase consumer awareness of them. These multiple segmented, EL signs are also small, with a total capacitance of 200 nF to 300 nF at best. Single segmented EL signs range nominally as high as 1000 nF.

This thesis deals with a method to power and control large, multi-segmented, EL displays. The controller was developed for EL technologies that use custom formulated inks and dielectrics for EL displays. The fabrication and properties of the sign is subject to a different project and not discussed further here. A large, multi-segmented EL display is defined as the sum total of up to eight EL segments with a total capacitance of up to 5000 nF. It can be controlled so that constant on, on / off, and fade in / fade out modes are possible. A generic method to control large, multi-segmented EL displays is first explored and then refined into a second model. These models were debugged via simulation and then a prototype was constructed for further testing. The result is a working unit that can control an eight-segmented EL display totaling up to 5000 nF or a single segment with a capacitance greater than 5000 nF"--Abstract, page iii.

Advisor(s)

Pottinger, Hardy J., 1944-

Committee Member(s)

Anderson, H. U. (Harlan U.)
Stanley, R. Joe

Department(s)

Electrical and Computer Engineering

Degree Name

M.S. in Computer Engineering

Publisher

University of Missouri--Rolla

Publication Date

Spring 2004

Pagination

viii, 56 pages

Note about bibliography

Includes bibliographical references (page 55).

Rights

© 2004 David Christian Callier, All rights reserved.

Document Type

Thesis - Restricted Access

File Type

text

Language

English

Subject Headings

Electroluminescent display systems -- Design and construction
Electroluminescent devices -- Design and construction

Thesis Number

T 8414

Print OCLC #

55154596

Link to Catalog Record

Electronic access to the full-text of this document is restricted to Missouri S&T users. Otherwise, request this publication directly from Missouri S&T Library or contact your local library.

Recommended Citation

Callier, David Christian, "A method of powering and controlling large, multi-segmented, electroluminescent displays" (2004). Masters Theses. 4424.
https://scholarsmine.mst.edu/masters_theses/4424