transparent lcd display pc case free sample

I saw a really cool video of a PC case called "Snowblind", that had a transparent LCD Screen as a side panel. I was amazed over how cool it was. The only problem was that it was really expensive. Therefore, I tried making my own! In this instructables I will go through how I made it, and how you could make your own. The best of all, since it was made from an old monitor that was thrown away, it was basically free! I just added some LED strips on the inside of the case to get better contrast on the screen. You could probably re-use the monitors backlight, but it"s safer and easier to just get some cheap LED strips.

First, remove the frame of the panel. It is fixed with clips, so just bend the frame a little and lift the frame up. Next, separate the front LCD from the backlight. For the next step, you will have to be careful. This step involves removing the anti glare film. It is glued to the panel, and therefore it"s easy to break the LCD when trying to remove it.

Then you are done modding the LCD! Now, you can hook it up to the panel and test it. Just be careful with the ribbon cables going from the LCD PCB to the panel.

The side panel of this case fits the LCD perfectly. Just line it up to the side facing the back, and to the top, and use some tape to tape it to the glass. Then, use some vinyl on the outside where the LCD is not covering the glass.

It"s really important to have lots of lights inside the case, to make it easier to see the LCD. Therefore, try to fill the case with even more LED strips.

You are now ready to assemble everything. In this case, the controller fit nicely in the hard drive compartment, so I glued it there and fed the ribbon cable through the hole in the inside of the case. That way it was pretty much hidden inside the case.

You can now power up the computer, open the screen settings and set it up for dual screens. You might have to flip the display 180 degrees too. When you have done that, open Wallpaper Engine and set a wallpaper of choice!

I have the same problem, I have read on google that the lcd could also be 3,3v (check if you have 3.3v lanes) so i will be trying to solder a sata cable to it because it comes with 3,3 and 5v connectors but the im not sure if save to use sata cables0

Hey I have a little question, I also have a Dell 1905FP, but I think it"s an older model because I don"t have a ribbon cable but a normal cable with a plug. My problem is that I have peeled off one film but it still looks like there is a second film on the back because it is still a little blurry. But I"m afraid that if I try to pull them off, my LCD display will break. Maybe you have an idea. Thanks in advance

Stunning result ! Bought for 10€ a Dell 1907FPc which is fairly similar to yours. I have trouble identifying the pin layout to find the 5V pin. Did you plug in the power supply to your AC while checking with your multimetter ?0

Really neat. I saw the same snowblind case and wanted it but too expensive. I also saw someone who made their own using a USB monitor. But I like your setup better.2

Terrific job! May I ask why you would need to remove the front polarizer? If my understanding is correct, both the front and back polarizers are needed in order for the LCD to work properly (i.e., the light gets polarized by the back polarizer first, and then passes through the front polarizer)? You comments will be appreciated!

Hey, great work on this project. I wanted to buy the snowbind case but couldn"t justify the cost. I have the same case and I ended up picking up the same monitor that you used in your project.

Is it possible that you post or send me photos of the inside of the case when you have this installed? I"m just a bit confused on how you wired up everything?

I tried taking some photos, but I have covered the screen PCB with a cover, so it was hard to see in the photos. I basically just laid it inside the case with a 90-degree angle. I tried drawing it here: (view from the front)0

I think you should have more pics and info about the re- mounting the LCD. After all if you don"t do it right all that work is for nothing. While I understand your wiring diagram, I think that it should be explained and a larger part of this Instructible...for example to get white lite your are powering all 3 lanes (red,green,blue) on the RGB tape.

Hello, Wonderfull project, I have the same case and I would love to do it (if I have time and the screen to the right size). Just a question, can you put a photo of the cable connection to see if it"s easy to open the case ? One little suggestion, instead of connecting the panel to the graphic card (which mean to run a cable outside, why don"t you use a USB to VGA or DVI converter (like this https://www.amazon.fr/Adaptateur-convertisseur-adaptateur-Affichage-multi-écrans/dp/B079L81FRD/ref=asc_df_B079L81FRD/?tag=googshopfr-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=227894524041&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=17927658121409960098&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9055710&hvtargid=pla-442905712462&psc=1) ?More CommentsPost Comment

Case modding took off in the late 90s, and taught us all that computers could (and should!) look awesome. Much of the aesthetic went mainstream, and now tons of computer cases come with lights and windows and all the rest. [WysWyg_Protogen] realized those simple case windows could be way cooler with a neat LCD hack, and set to work.

The concept is simple. Take an old LCD monitor, remove the backlight and extraneous hardware, and then install it to the window in a computer case. When lit from behind via LEDs in the case, the screen creates a ghostly display through which the computer’s internals can still partially be seen. It’s a really compelling effect, and in theory, quite easy to achieve. All one need do is mount the stripped-down screen to the case and pipe it video from the graphics card.

In practice, it’s a little tricky. Disassembling the screen and removing things like the anti-glare coating can be tough to do without damaging the delicate panel inside. The windows typically used on computer cases can dull the effect, too. However, [WysWyg_Protogen] is continuing to tinker with the project and the results are getting increasingly impressive with each iteration. It doesn’t photograph too well, but it looks truly amazing in motion.

We often forget LCDs are transparent in their basic form, as we generally only use them with backlights or reflective backers. They really do look great when used in this transmissive way, though. Video after the break.

Actually beside myself right now. How does this look this good? This was a trash pile monitor and this looks like a 700 dollar case upgrade pic.twitter.com/4yBXlcY921

The Hyte Y60 is one of the best PC cases on the market, and it’s getting a big upgrade in the form of an official DIY mod kit. TheHyte Y60 LCD DIT kit is available now for $120, allowing you to replace one of the tempered glass panels of the case with a programable screen.

If you frequent PC builds on Reddit or Instagram, you’ve probably seen this mod before. For months, community members have bought screens that fit in the gap in Hyte’s case and used community 3D-printed mounts to attach them. In a Reddit thread several months back, in fact, the company responded to a user’s build with “THIS IS SO COOL.”

The screen comes with a resolution of 1920 x 515, and it’s not something you can control through software. Instead, the included driver board includes a mini HDMI connection that you’ll need to route through your PC and connect to your graphics card. After that, the panel will show up as another monitor in your operating system.

Originally, the mod was made for Aida64’s SensorPanel software, which allows you to display sensors like system utilization, CPU speed, and temperature in custom themes. You can still download and use these themes with Hyte’s DIY kit, but you can also display images, videos, or anything else you want.

The LCD kit was among Hyte’s CES 2023 announcements. The company also announced the new Hyte Y40 case, which is a slimmed-down version of the wildly popular Y60. Instead of the dual-chamber design of the Y60 and fish tank-like look, the Y40 opts for a traditional power supply basement and a slimmer form factor.

Although it’s smaller overall, the Y40 actually has more space for your graphics card, which could make a big difference with GPUs like the RTX 4090. The vertical GPU mount includes four slots as opposed to the three slots on the Y60. The case is also $50 cheaper, clocking in at $150.

iBUYPOWER Snowblind - Tempered Glass LCD Side Panel Gaming PC!If there was ever a concern that PC gaming was stagnating, a recent spate of new system announcements and Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to Windows 10 gaming should put such concerns to rest. Not only are there the usual upgraded CPU and GPU cycles underway, but gaming system makers are tossing some real innovation into the mix.

One example is iBuyPower, which makes a complete line of gaming PCs spanning price points from low to high. They have apparently moved on from just offering the highest-end components, however, with new cases that incorporate a transparent LCD display in a side panel, PC Gamer reports.

According to iBuyPower, “Project Snowblind represents the next leap forward in gaming PC customization. Featuring a tailor-made clear LCD side panel, this PC will showcase your hardware like never before, while allowing you to have virtually any graphic display.”

You can customize a new Snowblind system by heading over to the iBuyPower site. The company hopes to ship systems by the end of February, meaning that you won’t have to wait too long for one of the more innovative case accessories we have seen in a while.

If you want a secondary screen but can’t quite fit one onto your desk, you might want to check out ASRock’s latest invention — a PC side panel display.

PC owners have all that space on their chassis, and nothing to do with it. As long as you’re willing to give up being able to easily peer inside the case (and admire the RGB light show, if that’s your thing), you might like ASRock’s 13.3-inch Side Panel Kit. This is essentially a monitor, similar to that in a laptop, that is attached to the inside of your case.

As the panel is installed within the chassis, your case needs to have a side panel made of transparent tempered glass. It has to be sturdy enough to hold the screen, but it also needs to be see-through so that you can see it in the first place.

For a little side monitor, the IPS display sounds decent. It measures 13.3 inches, has a 16:9 aspect ratio, 1080p resolution, and a basic 60Hz refresh rate. The display seems to be fairly bright and suitable for all kinds of things.

You could use it to simply monitor your PC’s temperatures and speeds, or you could turn it into a proper secondary screen for productivity or entertainment. Granted, needing to view it through the case will probably diminish the experience a bit, but it’s still a fun gadget if you’ve got limited desk space and want an extra screen. If you do get one and plan to use it for productivity, you might need to re-think the placement of your PC case to avoid constantly having to turn and look to the side.

With all that said, there’s one catch — not that many people might be able to use this gadget, and that’s all because of the fact that it has an embedded DisplayPort (eDP) connector. This means that it runs both power and video through just one cable, and while that’s handy, most motherboards don’t support this kind of connection.

This availability is likely to affect the popularity of ASRock’s new gadget. However, if you have one of the required motherboards or you’re planning an upgrade soon, it seems like a fun addition to a PC build.

Transparent LCD’s provide an innovative display solution opening up new ways for brands to promote their products and services. Examples include retail stores looking to advertise a new fashion clothing or accessory, museums securely housing a precious artifact with information displayed on screen or brands looking to launch a new product at a live event or show. The opportunities are endless!

Our Transparent LCD Displays include a Grade A LCD panel with metal bezel protecting the edges / electronics and a media board supporting HDMI or VGA inputs from your PC, Laptop or Media Player.

Transparent screen technology offers intriguing ways to deliver visual information to your audience, being used to reveal or conceal products, objects or artefacts behind the screen.

The combination of HD LCD technology (4K on our 65″, 86″, 98″ version) with a transparent screen substrate opens up creative avenues that were previously closed with traditional LCD displays. Solid black pixels on a transparent background can be used in intriguing ways to hide (and gradually reveal) whatever is behind the screen.

Our Transparent LCD monitors are designed for integration into the customers own furniture housing or display case while our Transparent LCD showcases offer a complete solution including the display, housing and backlight with white or black options available on request. We can also offer custom freestanding options for POP / POS displays. Transparent LCD’s are predominantly fully housed however we’ve recently developed an innovative housing method using a high brightness LED panel which allows the display case sides to remain transparent for improved visibly into the display case.

Using their original design as a starting point, we worked closely with the team at Nike to adapt to the mechanical aspects of the design, the result was a sleek and minimalist set of nine Transparent LCD Display Screens, custom built to suit the applications requirements, bringing Nike’s original concept ideas to life.

These screens can also be granted multi-touch capability by combining them with infrared touch frames or PCAP touch overlays, to add an interactive element to your installation. This creates a very powerful impact when the content on screen integrates with real life objects behind the screen, encouraging viewers to interact on a level that will exceed expectations.

Retail windows, interactive booths, display cases, interactive games, vending machines, drinks coolers… the uses for this amazing technology are limited only by your creativity.

Transparent LCD’s comprise of an LCD panel without the backlight with white pixels appearing as transparent. In order to display an image, the Transparent LCD needs to be integrated into a housing with a high bright LED backlight.

We can also offer more complete solutions like our Transparent LCD Showcase that comes fully contained and ready to use with a powerful backlighting system to guarantee the best picture quality.

Yes in order to display an image Transparent LCD’s need to have a strong backlight. Notoriously Transparent LCD’s have also needed some form of housing to achieve optimum image quality, however, Nike’s House of Innovation paired our Transparent LCD’s with powerful, oversized backlights that allowed the screens to be mounted with no surround but still producing a high-quality image.

Transparent LCD’s are arguably the most popular transparent screens but are hindered by their need for a backlight to operate. For applications looking for a similar effect without the backlighting, Transparent OLEDs require no housing or surround but are only currently available in a 55″ screen size with HD quality. For larger transparent screen applications, Transparent LED’s are recommended with external and internal solutions usually installed to glass facades for the impact of an led screen without compromising the view from inside the building.

We also offer transparent projection technologies including our Clearview Rear Projection Film featured in Guardians of the Galaxy as well as at the 83rd Oscars celebration and MTV EMA awards.

Transparent LCD’s are a great way to combine physical and digital displays in one central place making them a popular choice for museums and exhibitions. Our transparent screens can also be integrated into display furniture and appliances & vending machines like freezer doors for supermarkets. Other uses include POS displays, store window displays, trade shows and product launches.

We manufacture in Britain and ship worldwide – if you need further information, a pricing quote, or want to discuss ideas for using our Transparent LCD Display click the link below to contact us, email us via info@prodisplay.com or call us on +44 (0)1226 361 306.

The present invention relates generally to refrigerated display cases and refrigerator doors and, more particularly, to a refrigerator door with a transparent LCD panel.

The invention described herein includes the use of a transparent LCD glass panel as one of the panes in a three-pane unit, such as one used in an insulated glass refrigerator/freezer door.

One of the issues with such a door is supplying power, data and/or communications to the components within the refrigerated display case. Glass refrigerator/freezer doors commonly have a mechanism to supply 120VAC or 240VAC power to the door for anti-sweat heaters. Most stores use a traditional electrical cord. This cord flexes in the cold and suffers from copper conductor fatigue, and insulation cracking. To overcome these weaknesses, solutions have been provided in which the electrical conductors are passed through the hinge pin. By running the conductors concentric with the axis of the hinge pin, flexing and fatigue is minimized, thus improving reliability. The high voltage conductors and associated contacts require appropriate insulation and spacing as dictated by UL and other safety certification organizations. See, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,671,582 (referred to herein as the “"582 patent”), issued on Jun. 9, 1987 to Stromquist, et al., the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Other types of refrigerator/freezer doors also require both power and data. For example, LED light fixtures mounted to the swinging door, LED illuminated marquee signs mounted inside the insulated glass assembly of the door, LCD displays mounted on the door handle, and transparent LCD glass panels with advertising all require both power and data. Most of these products require UL Class 2 low voltage (<60VDC), and many require a data supply, e.g. LCD displays with advertising pictures or videos requiring TCP/IP type data communications.

Generally, the invention is to use a transparent LCD glass panel as one of the panes in a three-pane unit, such as one used in an insulated glass refrigerator/freezer door. With the transparent LCD panel, a consumer can see the media shown on the LCD panel, but can also see inside the display case/refrigerator to view the contents therein. For example, transparent LCD panels are commercially available from Samsung. In a preferred embodiment, the LCD glass panel is used as the center panel. It is within the scope of the present invention to use the LCD glass panel as the inner or outer pane or to add the LCD glass panel as an additional pane. However, in a preferred embodiment, the LCD glass panel needs to be protected from impact and/or moisture damage. Mounting the panel externally may decrease visible transmittance and would also subject the panel to impact by shopping carts. Also, if the store ambient temperature and humidity are not properly controlled, the door can be subject to condensation which may damage the LCD panel or associated electronics. Mounting the panel inside the freezer (adjacent to the food) may cause condensation when the door is opened. Housing the LCD panel inside the hermetically sealed glass unit protects the panel from condensation damage. The associated electronics can also optionally be mounted inside the hermetically sealed glass assembly to protect them from condensation damage. In another embodiment, the electronics can be mounted outside the hermetically sealed glass assembly, such as in the rail of the door.

The door preferably includes the following distinctive features: (1) transparent LCD panel functioning as the center insulating pane of a three-pane low-temp glass freezer door to maximize visible transmittance while maintaining thermal insulating performance; (2) transparent LCD panel mounted between an inner and outer pane of glass to it protect from impact damage; (3) transparent LCD panel mounted inside the hermetically sealed glass unit to protect from moisture damage; (4) mounting the associated electronics, wires, and media player inside the sealed glass unit to protect it from moisture damage or inside the rail of the door; (5) using selectively decorated opaque areas (e.g. screen printing, dot matrix decorating, roller printing, ink jet printing, painting or the like) of the outer or inner pane of glass to hide the circuit boards around the LCD panel perimeter, the wires, and media player hardware of the door assembly, allowing the complete system to be conveniently housed inside the door. The “LCD door” can be used for advertising merchandise, nutritional value, pricing, etc.

In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a door assembly that includes a single glass unit having at least first, second and third panels, a front surface, a rear surface, and an outside edge. At least one of the first, second or third panels is a transparent LCD panel on which media can be displayed. The single glass unit also includes a frame that at least partially surrounds the outside edge of the single glass unit, and electronic components in electrical communication with the LCD panel. In a preferred embodiment, the second panel comprises the transparent LCD panel and is positioned between the first and third panels and the first panel is spaced from the second panel by a first spacer and the third panel is spaced from the second panel by a second spacer. The first, second and third panels each have an outside edge and a length and a width. The length and the width of the second panel is smaller than the length and the width of the first and third panels, thereby defining a margin between the outer edge of the second panel and the outer edges of the first and third panels. The first panel is spaced from the third panel by a third spacer that is positioned within the margin.

In a preferred embodiment, the single glass unit includes insulation disposed within the margin and between the first and third panels and the second panel is hermetically sealed between the first and third panels. Furthermore, the first panel includes an outer opaque section and an inner transparent section through which the second panel is visible. In one embodiment, the electronic components for running the LCD panel are disposed between the first and third panels. In another embodiment, the electronic components are positioned in the rail and the rail includes a removable cover for accessing the electronic components. In an embodiment, one of the panels includes an electro-conductive film thereon that is generally clear, wherein when a voltage is applied across a portion of the film, the film becomes opaque. In an embodiment, the electronic components are powered by 24V DC.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a series of refrigerated display cases that each include a door assembly with single glass unit having a center LCD panel;

FIG. 2 is a front elevational view of one of the single glass unit having a center LCD panel of FIG. 1 with a portion of the front outer pane cut away to show the electronic components;

Without intent to further limit the scope of the disclosure, examples of instruments, apparatus, methods and their related results according to the embodiments of the present disclosure are given below. Note that titles or subtitles may be used in the examples for convenience of a reader, which in no way should limit the scope of the disclosure. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. In the case of conflict, the present document, including definitions, will control.

FIG. 1 shows a series of refrigerated display case doors 100 that include a three-pane unit, single glass unit or package 10 with a transparent LCD panel 16 associated therewith. FIGS. 2-4 show the single glass unit 10 with front/outer pane 12, rear/inner pane 14 and center transparent LCD panel 16. It will be understood that in FIGS. 2-4 and 8, the outer perimeter or frame 102 of the door 100 is not shown. In a preferred embodiment, the panes are glass. However, any transparent material, such as plastic, can be used.

As shown in FIG. 3, in a preferred embodiment, the single glass unit 10 includes front and rear panes 12 and 14, LCD panel 16, electronic components 18, spacers 20a, 20b,20c, and insulation 22. In a preferred embodiment, the front and rear panes 12 and 14 include an opaque section 24 that obscures or hides components inside the unit 10. For example, by providing the opaque section 24 (preferably done by screen printing or some other type of coating) on selected areas of one or more of the panes 12 and/or 14, the spacers 20a, 20b, 20cinsulation 22, electronic components 18 and other components can be housed inside the unit 10 (and the door 100) and hidden from view. Thermal insulation 22 may be added in certain areas to maintain the overall thermal performance of the door.

Each panel 12, 14 and 16, has a front and rear surface, For ease of description, these are described herein and depicted in FIG. 4 as surfaces 121, 122, 123, 124, 125 and 126. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that in use surface 121 faces the customer and surface 126 faces the interior space of the display case.

In a preferred embodiment, the opaque section 24 on the front and rear panes 12 and 14 (or dot matrix decorating, etc.) is placed on surfaces 122 and 125 to hide the components therein and the margin of the LCD panel, etc. However, this is not a limitation and the opaque section(s) can be placed on any desired surface.

It will be understood that the LCD panel may include a number of different layers or panes of glass/plexiglass or the like laminated to one another. Accordingly, as used herein, the LCD panel can be a single layer or multi-layer panel that includes an LCD screen for playing media. For example, the LCD screen may include a layer of glass adhered thereto to improve strength and reduce flex when the door is slammed. This can add strength to the LCD panel by essentially making it a double laminated panel. In a preferred embodiment, the LCD panel 16 has an aluminum rail therearound.

In a preferred embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, unit 10 includes at least three different spacers 20a, 20band 20c. Spacer 20aspans the space between the front and rear panels 12 and 14, spacer 20bspans the space between the front panel 12 and the LCD panel 16, and spacer 20cspans the space between the rear panel 14 and the LCD panel 16, as is shown in FIG. 4. It will be understood that the spacers 20a, 20band 20care adhered to a surface of the panel 12, 14 or 16. For example, spacer 20ais adhered to the inner surfaces of front panel 12 and rear panel 14. In a preferred embodiment, the spacers 20a,20band 20care made of an elastomeric material. However, this is not a limitation on the present invention. The spacers can be made of other materials, such as a polymer, a metal such as aluminum, etc. The elastomeric material or spacers 20band 20csupports and suspends the LCD panel 16 inside the door and between the front and rear panels 12 and 14, thus helping prevent damage from shock and vibration when the door 100 closes. In another embodiment, the spacers 20a, 20band 20ccan be formed as a unit, as shown in FIG. 8 and as shown in U.S. Pat. No. 6,148,563, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference. In this embodiment, the front and rear panels 12 and 14 are spaced from the center panel by spacers 20band 20c, but they are also connected by spacer 20a.This essentially forms a single spacer with a detent in the middle for receiving the LCD panel 16.

When incorporating a single glass unit 10 with a transparent LCD panel 16, the door includes components 18 for operation of the LCD screen. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, in a preferred embodiment, the LCD panel 16 is smaller (length and width dimensions) than the outer panes 12 and 14. This provides space or a margin 25 around the perimeter of the LCD panel 16 for housing the components 18. For example, the unit 10 or door 100 can include circuit board(s) 26 (labeled A-D board in FIG. 2), wires or cables 28, a media player 30 (that includes a hard drive with memory and appropriate software) and associated connectors and such for providing media and/or power to the LCD panel 16. In another embodiment, the unit 10 can include one or more speakers 29, as shown in FIG. 7. In a preferred embodiment, components 18 are positioned within the margin 25 under the LCD panel 16. However, this is not a limitation on the present invention and the components 18 can be positioned as desired. See, for example, FIG. 7, where the components are positioned in the rail of the door, which is described more fully below.

It will be understood that the single glass unit 10 can be modified as necessary to fit within any type of door to be used in a refrigerated display case or the like. FIG. 5, shows the unit 10 within an exemplary door assembly 100. The door preferably includes a handle 104 to open or close and alternately seal or unseal the interior space of the display case. Typical display cases include numerous other structures for attaching the door(s) to the display case, as well as features for housing wiring, mullions, gaskets and other associated brackets and components that are typically included in refrigerated display cases. These features are well known in the art and will not be discussed in detail herein. An example of such components are discussed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,606,832, and 6,606,833 the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.

As discussed above, in a preferred embodiment, unit 10 includes a media player 30 for controlling and playing media on the LCD panel 16. Data can be provided to the media player 30 via wires or cables or wirelessly, e.g., Wi-Fi, 802.11:x, etc., as desired (with the appropriate transmitter and/or receiver). In a preferred embodiment, the media player 30 includes a solid-state drive to prevent a spinning hard drive from failing when the door is slammed. However, this is not a limitation on the present invention and a spinning hard drive or other type of drive can also be used. Wireless (or wired) communications with the media player 30 can be used to deliver desired content to be played on the LCD panel 16, e.g, advertising content, nutritional content, special offers, etc. For example, the invention can implement IP addressable communications so an advertiser can remotely feed new data over the Internet. Furthermore, this allows remote monitoring of the health of the hard drive of the media player and associated electronic components.

In a preferred embodiment, the case into which the door 100 is mounted is pre-wired with low-voltage DC power supply, e.g. 12V, 24V, UL Class 2, etc. so that it accepts a transparent LCD door 100 with power through the hinge pin 31, or wired cords near the rotating hinge pin. However, this is not a limitation on the present invention. For example, a high-voltage option can also be implemented. As shown in FIG. 5, insulated electrical conductors and/or wired communications (for the media player 30 and associated components) can be directed through the hinge pin 31 (e.g., via TCP/IP-type Internet communications).

One feature of a preferred embodiment of the invention is to provide an electrical hinge pin 31, similar to the "582 patent hinge pin, but replacing the AC conductors of the "582 patent with low-voltage DC conductors and a data cable. The elimination of the high voltage AC conductors makes more space available in the hinge pin 31 for both the low-voltage DC antisweat heat and powering the electronics, and a data cable, e.g. Cat 5 with TCP/IP type communications. The low voltage conductors (e.g., 24V DC) can be used to power all electronic components, such as the components 18 for the LCD panel 16, heated glass, anti-sweat perimeter heating, etc. In another embodiment, the electrical hinge pin can be omitted and a regular hinge pin can be used. For example, in an outside mount embodiment of the door, the electronic components can be powered by (and data communicated therewith) a cord that does not run through the hinge pin. This type of door may be used, for example, on a self serve case at the end of a check out aisle in a store.

In a preferred embodiment, (and preferably in low-temp applications), an insulating gas, such as argon, xenon or other insulating gas can be used to fill the inner and/or outer cavities 32 between the LCD panel 16 and the front and rear panes 12 and 14, as shown in FIG. 4 (and other voids or cavities within the unit 10). In a preferred embodiment, the gas-filled inner cavities 32 are hermetically sealed (see seal 33 in FIG. 4) to keep from contaminating the transparent LCD panel 16 with dust, residue or outgassing from the outer insulated cavity containing insulation and electronics.

The thickness of the unit 10 can be different for different applications. However, in an exemplary embodiment, the overall thickness of the unit 10 is preferably about 0.125″, with the front and rear panes 12 and 14 being about 0.125″ thick and the center LCD pane 16 being about 0.125″ thick. These dimensions are not a limitation on the present invention.

In a preferred embodiment, panes 12, 14 and 16 are preferably designed to maximize visible light transmission from inside the case to the customer, thereby improving the ability of customers to view display items. However, it is also desirable to minimize the transmission of non-visible light (i.e., ultraviolet and infrared light) through glass unit 10 from outside to inside the case in order to improve thermal performance and to protect items therein. Coolers are a type of refrigerated display case which operate at a temperature of approximately 38° F. Freezers are another type of refrigerated display case which operate below 0° F. When the glass unit 10 of such display cases comes into contact with ambient air, the relatively colder glass unit 10 can cause moisture in the air to condense on the surfaces of the glass unit. Thus, besides the use of the electro-conductive coating described above, it is desirable to use the non-visible wavelengths of light to heat the glass panels, thus reducing or preventing condensation. In a preferred embodiment, the panes 12, 14 and 16 can also include a UV inhibitor, which can help increase the shelf life of products inside. Also, panes 12, 14 and 16 may include low-emissivity heat-reflective coatings to improve overall thermal resistance and/or prevent external condensation. In an embodiment where reflection is an issue, an anti-reflective coating can be applied to any of the panes the glass unit 10.

In a preferred embodiment, touch screen technology 34, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 6, can be used. Exemplary touch screen technology is disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication Nos. 2009/0146945 and 2007/0216657, the entireties of which are incorporated by reference herein. In this embodiment, a user can touch the front of the outer panel 12 and access information as desired. In various embodiments, the entire outer panel 12 can incorporate touch screen technology or only various portions of the outer panel 12 can include touch screen technology. For example, the user can access nutritional information about the contents of the case or the user can access information about the layout of the store.

In a preferred embodiment, the unit 10 includes motion sensor technology, such as a visual recognition camera 36, as shown in FIG. 6. In this embodiment, the media player 30 only plays content on the LCD panel 16, when a person walks by or in front of the unit 10. In an exemplary embodiment, the unit 10 can include software that allows the camera 36, and/or the components thereof, to recognize if a man or a woman is standing in front of the door 100. Therefore, the advertisement or other media played on the LCD panel 16 can be tailored to the specific gender of the person standing in front of the door 100.

The single glass unit 10 can be used in other insulated glass assemblies for refrigerators/freezers. For example, the single glass unit 10 can be implemented in a sliding door for a multi-deck refrigerator, a fixed insulated glass “end” window for a multi-deck refrigerator, a fixed window for a walk-in cooler, an insulated service deli case window/door, an insulated single-deck, low-temp island case sliding lid, etc.

In another preferred embodiment, two or more smaller screens can be combined in a matrix to increase the visible display area. For example a 46″ 16:9 standard TV size in a 30″×67″ door leaves a large opaque margin top and bottom. Two smaller adjacent panels would leave more space for visible transmittance. Another way to increase the visible area is to cut down the long side of a larger 16:9 LCD panel such that it better fits the typical 67″ or 75″ vertical height but would otherwise exceed the standard 30″ width.

In another embodiment, a series of doors can be synchronized to display one images or related images on each of the doors, similar to a JumboTron that displays an image or images on a series of synched screens. In this embodiment, a central control unit that is in electrical communication (wired or wirelessly) with electrical components within each door can be used.

Furthermore, the LCD panel does not have to be the center panel. In other embodiments, the LCD panel can be the inside or outside panel. For example, a transparent LCD screen can be adhered or laminated to the outside panel or the inside panel of a triple pane refrigerator door. In another embodiment, the unit 10 can include more than three panels or panes. For example, the LCD panel 16 can be inserted between the first and second or second and third panels in a triple pane refrigerator door.

In a preferred embodiment, a separate pocket is created in the margin of the door outside the hermetic seal of the insulated glass, that would allow access to the media player and related electronic components 18 for service or upgrade. This can be implemented by using an “offset” insulated glass package/unit (e.g. pane number three is smaller than pane number one) to create the pocket to contain the media player or other electronics to allow service. However, the glass package/unit does not have to be offset. In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, the pocket38 is created or defined in the hollow area made by the rail 106. As shown, the rail 106 can include a cover 40 that is removably attached to the rail 106 by threaded fasteners or the like. The cover 40 can be removed to allow access to the pocket 38 and the electronic components 18 therein, thus allowing repair, upgrade, replacement, etc. In FIG. 7, the pocket 38, cover 40 and components 18 are shown in the top rail 106 of the door 100. However, the pocket 38, cover 40 and components 18 (such as speaker 29) can be mounted in any rail or portion of the frame. In another embodiment, the electronic components for running the LCD panel can be mounted in the display case or refrigerator.

In another preferred embodiment, the unit 10 includes a switchable film or glass 42 disposed or laminated on at least one of the surfaces of the front or rear panels 12 and/or 14, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 8. In a preferred embodiment, the film is disposed on surface five, which is the front surface of the rear panel 14. The panel with the switchable film 42 can be formed by laminating a liquid crystal switchable film thereon or the film can be directly mounted on the panel with a double sided tape, optical glue or the like. In use, a voltage is selectively applied to the film to make it either clear or opaque as desired. In a preferred embodiment, if a voltage is applied to the film, it goes clear and if no voltage is applied it is opaque or frosted. Therefore, in use, if no voltage is applied, images on the clear LCD panel look like a regular television, which helps accentuate the images on the transparent LCD panel and eliminate the distracting contrast of the product in the display case. Then when a voltage is applied, the film goes clear and the product in the case is easier to see. In another embodiment, the film 42 is disposed on the front or center panels. In another embodiment, the film 42 is disposed on another panel, such as a fourth panel. In another embodiment, the single glass unit includes only two panels, one of which is the LCD panel and the other includes the switchable film 42. This type of unit can be used in non-door applications, such as in department store windows, etc. where the window is desirable to be transparent at times and opaque at other times to better see the media on the LCD panel. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, appropriate wiring and the like can be associated with the film 42 to supply the voltage. In a preferred embodiment, switchable film 42 is backlit with the display case lighting.

In an embodiment, the door 100 can include a light guide plate (made of glass, plexiglass or the like) that helps illuminate (preferably via LED lighting) the images on the LCD panel. Other types of lighting for LCD panel are also within the scope of the invention.

In another embodiment of the invention, the glass unit may be a laminated glass unit without any space between the panes, as is shown in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2010/0043293, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference. Also, the display case may or may not be refrigerated.

G06F3/0481—Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI] based on specific properties of the displayed interaction object or a metaphor-based environment, e.g. interaction with desktop elements like windows or icons, or assisted by a cursor"s changing behaviour or appearance

G06F3/04815—Interaction with a metaphor-based environment or interaction object displayed as three-dimensional, e.g. changing the user viewpoint with respect to the environment or object

This document describes techniques and apparatuses for implementing a transparent display device. A transparent display device includes a transparent or translucent screen to render images on the screen, and to render virtual objects that appear to be in a three-dimensional (3D) space behind the screen. The transparent display device also includes a hand tracker to sense movement of a user"s hands to interact with one or more of the virtual objects, and to generate 3D-input based on the movement. The transparent or translucent screen enables the user to see the user"s hands behind the screen as the user"s hands interact with the one or more virtual objects. The transparent display device is controlled to modify the rendering of the images on the screen or the virtual objects behind the screen based on the 3D-input.

This document describes techniques and apparatuses for implementing a transparent display device. A transparent display device includes a transparent or translucent screen to render images on the screen, and to render virtual objects that appear to be in a three-dimensional (3D) space behind the screen. The transparent display device also includes a hand tracker to sense movement of a user"s hands to interact with one or more of the virtual objects, and to generate 3D-input based on the movement. The transparent or translucent screen enables the user to see the user"s hands behind the screen as the user"s hands interact with the one or more virtual objects. The transparent display device is controlled to modify the rendering of the images on the screen or the virtual objects behind the screen based on the 3D-input.

Embodiments of techniques and apparatuses for implementing a transparent display device are described with reference to the following drawings. The same numbers are used throughout the drawings to reference like features and components:

This document describes techniques and apparatuses for implementing a transparent display device. A transparent display device includes a transparent or translucent screen to render images on the screen, and to render virtual objects that appear to be in a three-dimensional (3D) space behind the screen. The transparent display device also includes a hand tracker to sense movement of a user"s hands to interact with one or more of the virtual objects, and to generate 3D-input based on the movement. The transparent or translucent screen enables the user to see the user"s hands behind the screen as the user"s hands interact with the one or more virtual objects. The transparent display device is controlled to modify the rendering of the images on the screen or the virtual objects behind the screen based on the 3D-input.

FIG. 1 is an illustration of an example environment 100 in which a transparent display device can be implemented. Environment 100 includes a transparent display device 102, which is illustrated, by way of example and not limitation, as one of a smart phone 104, a laptop computer 106, a television device 108, a desktop computer 110, or a tablet computer 112.

Transparent display device 102 includes processor(s) 114 and computer-readable media 116, which includes memory media 118 and storage media 120. Applications and/or an operating system (not shown) embodied as computer-readable instructions on computer-readable media 116 can be executed by processor(s) 114 to provide some or all of the functionalities described herein. Computer-readable media also includes a controller 122. How controller 122 is implemented and used varies, and is described in further detail below.

Transparent display device 102 also includes a transparent screen 124 that is configured to render images on the screen, and to render virtual objects that appear to be in a three-dimensional (3D) space behind the screen. While referred to as a transparent screen herein, transparent screen 124 can be implemented as either a transparent screen or as a semi-transparent or translucent screen. Transparent screen 124 can be implemented to render two-dimensional (2D) images and/or 3D images. For example, in some embodiments transparent screen 124 can render 2D images that are typically displayed on a 2D screen, such as a word-processing document, a PDF document, 2D pictures, or 2D video, to name just a few. Alternately or additionally, transparent screen 124 can render 3D images that can be viewed with or without eye glasses. For example, in some cases transparent screen 124 can be implemented to render 3D images using an optic such as a wedge that can be viewed by a user without the use of eye glasses. In other cases, transparent screen 124 can render 3D images that can be viewed by a user wearing eye glasses, such as shutter glasses, polarized glasses, or lenticular glassless displays, to name just a few.

As described in more detail below, transparent display device 102 can be controlled to transition between rendering the 2D images and/or 3D images on the transparent screen and rendering the virtual objects that appear to be in the 3D space behind the transparent screen. As discussed in more detail below, the images displayed on the transparent screen may be opaque, or partially opaque, to cover the virtual objects, but can be controlled to slide away to reveal the virtual objects displayed behind transparent screen 124.

In various embodiments, transparent screen 124 may be configured as a 2D or 3D flat-panel electronic display, such as a high-resolution liquid crystal display (LCD). Transparent screen 124 can be physically coupled to transparent display device 102 or implemented separate from transparent display device 102. For example, transparent screen 124 is physically coupled to laptop computer 106 but is implemented separate from desktop computer 110.

FIG. 2 illustrates a detailed example 200 of transparent display device 102 in accordance with one embodiment. In this example, transparent screen 124 uses a grid 202 to render virtual objects 204 that appear to a user as if the virtual objects are rendered in a 3D space 206 behind transparent screen 124. It is to be appreciated that grid 202 may not be viewable by the user, but is used by transparent display device 102 to render the virtual objects so that they appear to be positioned in the 3D space behind transparent screen 124. In this example, virtual objects 204 are depicted as windows 208 and 210. Windows 208 and 210 can each represent a page associated with an application, such a web browser page, a word-processing document, or a PDF file. It is to be noted, however, that transparent screen 124 can render any type of virtual object in 3D space 206.

By rendering virtual objects 204 that appear to be in 3D space 206, transparent screen 124 enables the user to manipulate virtual objects 204 using one or both of the user"s hands. It is to be noted that transparent screen 124 is transparent and thus enables the user to see the user"s actual hands (as opposed to a virtual rendering of the user"s hands) as the user manipulates virtual objects 204. Thus, transparent display device 102 leverages the user"s spatial understanding and kinesthetic memory to access and manipulate virtual objects 204 in 3D space 206.

Transparent display device 102 also includes a hand tracker 126, which is configured to sense movement of the user"s hands, such as gestures, to interact with one or more of virtual objects 204 in 3D space 206 behind transparent screen 124, and to generate 3D-input based on the movement. In an embodiment, hand tracker 126 is implemented as a depth camera that senses a 3D position, movement, and/or pose of each of the user"s hands. As discussed in more detail below, controller 122 is configured to receive the 3D-input from hand tracker 126, and to modify the rendering of the 2D or 3D images on transparent screen 124 (not illustrated in FIG. 2) or virtual objects 204 in 3D space 206, based on the 3D-input.

In some embodiments, transparent display device 102 also includes an input panel 128 that is positioned behind transparent screen 124 and is configured to receive 2D-input, such as touch-input and/or key-input, from the user. In this example, as opposed to the conventional design of a laptop where the laptop screen is attached to the trailing edge (far from the user) of the keyboard panel, transparent screen 124 is coupled to a near-edge (edge closer to the user) of input panel 128. Input panel 128 may include any combination of a keyboard configured to receive key-input or a mouse, track pad, touch pad, or other 2D sensing device configured to receive touch-input. By being positioned behind transparent screen 124, input panel 128 enables the user to reach behind the transparent screen to use the input panel.

It is to be noted that because transparent screen 124 is transparent or translucent, the user may be able to see input panel 128 as the key-input or touch-input is entered. For example, when input panel 128 includes a keyboard, the user may be able to see both the keys of the keyboard and the user"s fingers through the transparent screen as the user types on the keyboard. Further, the position of input panel 128 behind transparent screen 124 enables the user to easily transition between using input panel 128 (e.g., for typing) to manipulating virtual objects 204 in 3D space 206. For example, if the user is typing on the keyboard of input panel 128, the user can simply raise one or both of the user"s hands in order to manipulate or interact with virtual objects 204.

FIG. 3 illustrates a detailed example 300 of a side view of the transparent display device illustrated in FIG. 2. In this example, transparent screen 124 is coupled to input panel 128 via a foldable hinge 302. Foldable hinge 302 enables transparent screen 124 to fold on top of input panel 128 to close transparent display device 102. Foldable hinge 302, in this example, is attached to the middle of both transparent screen 124 and input panel 128, which enables the user to comfortably place the user"s hands behind the transparent screen to use input panel 128.

While examples 200 and 300 illustrate transparent screen 124 as being physically attached to input panel 128, alternately input panel 128 may be positioned behind transparent screen 124 without being physically connected to the transparent screen. For example, transparent screen 124 may be implemented as a desktop monitor, and input panel 128 may be implemented as a keyboard and/or mouse that can be placed behind the desktop monitor.

In some embodiments, transparent display device 102 also includes a head tracker 130 that is configured to track a position of the user"s head or eyes relative to transparent screen 124. Controller 122 is configured to render, or modify the rendering of, virtual objects 204 based on the position of the user"s head or eyes so that the virtual objects appear to be in 3D space 206. Head tracker 130 can be implemented as a 3D camera or as an array of cameras. In various embodiments, both hand tracker 126 and head tracker 130 may be implemented as short-range depth cameras. In example 200, hand tracker 126 and head tracker 130 can be mounted to transparent screen 124, making transparent display device 102 truly a mobile device. Thus, controller 122 controls transparent display device 102 to render virtual objects 204 on transparent screen 124 that are updated in real time based on the user"s eye or head position, such that the user perceives that the virtual objects are displayed behind the transparent screen at a programmed set position.

FIG. 4 aillustrates a detailed example 400 of transparent display device 102 in accordance with one embodiment. In this example, transparent display device 102 renders a 2D or 3D image 402 on the surface of transparent screen 124. Image 402 may be any type of 2D image that can be displayed on a conventional 2D screen, or 3D image that can be displayed on a 3D screen. In this example, image 402 is a picture of a pair of dice. Note, however, that transparent screen 124 may display image 402 as a web browser window, a word-processing document, a picture, or a PDF file, to name just a few examples. The user can interact with image 402 using input panel 128. For example, the user can type on the keyboard of input panel 128 to write an email message, or use a track pad or mouse of the input panel to modify the size of image 402. Transparent display device 102 receives the 2D-input from the user via input panel 128, and controller 122 controls the transparent display device to modify the rendering of image 402 on the transparent screen based on the 2D-input.

In various embodiments, transparent display device 102 employs a “sliding door” technique when the user raises one or both of the user"s hands off of input panel 128 to reach into the 3D space behind transparent screen 124. Consider for example that in FIG. 4 bthe user raises one of the user"s hands off of input panel 128 to reach into 3D space 206. Hand tracker 126 senses this movement, and generates 3D-input that is received by controller 122. Controller 122 then controls transparent screen 124 to slide the rendering of image 402 to reveal one or more virtual objects that appear to be in 3D space 206 behind transparent screen 124. In this example, the rendering of image 402 is controlled to slide down transparent screen 124. Alternately, however, the rendering of image 402 can be controlled to slide up transparent screen 124 or to slide across (e.g., slide left across or slide right across) transparent screen 124. In some embodiments, image 402 can also or instead be controlled to fade, dissolve, or transition in any other way to reveal the virtual objects in 3D space 206.

After the rendering of the image on the screen slides to reveal the virtual objects, the user can interact with the virtual objects using one or both of the user"s hands. In an embodiment, when the user lowers the user"s hand to go back to entering input using input panel 128, hand tracker 126 senses the movement of the user"s hand to reach towards the input panel and generates 3D-input that is received by controller 122. Controller 122 then controls transparent screen 124 to slide the rendering of image 402 to cover the one or more virtual objects (e.g., slide back up, back down, back left, or back right). It is to be appreciated, therefore, that the sliding door technique enables the user to easily transition between entering 2D-input via input panel 128 and entering 3D-input using the user"s hands in 3D space 206.

Transparent display device 102 enables the user to interact with virtual objects that appear to be in the 3D space behind transparent screen 124 in a variety of different ways. In an embodiment, transparent display device 102 employs a “virtual cabinet” technique to cause transparent screen 124 to render multiple windows stacked in one or more 3D volumes that appear to be in 3D space 206. For example, FIG. 5 aillustrates another detailed example 500 of transparent display device 102 in accordance with one embodiment. In this example, transparent screen 124 renders multiple windows stacked in 3D volumes 502 and 504 that appear to be in 3D space 206. Each of the windows stacked in 3D volumes 502 and 504 can represent a page associated with an application, such a web browser page, a word-processing document, or a PDF file.

Transparent display device 102 enables the user to interact with 3D volumes 502 and 504 in 3D space 206 by positioning one or both of the user"s hands near the 3D volumes in 3D space 206. Hand tracker 126 is configured to sense movement of the user"s hand behind the transparent screen to select one of 3D volumes 502 or 504, and to generate 3D-input based on the movement. Responsive to receiving the 3D-input from hand tracker 126, controller 122 controls transparent display device 102 to render the selected 3D volume as open on transparent screen 124 to enable the user to interact with the multiple windows stacked in the selected 3D volume.

It is to be noted that rendering the 3D volume as open enables the user to more easily view the multiple windows in the selected 3D volume. For example, in FIG. 5 a, 3D volumes 502 and 504 are rendered as closed making it difficult for the user to see, or select, each individual window in 3D volumes 502 and 504. In FIG. 5 b, if the user moves the user"s hand to select 3D volume 504, the movement of the user"s hand is sensed by hand tracker 126 which generates 3D-input that is received by controller 122. Controller 122 then controls transparent screen 124 to modify the rendering of 3D volume 504 to render 3D volume 504 as open. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 5 b, the windows in 3D volume 504 are open, or spread out, as compared to the windows in 3D volume 502. Opening the 3D volume enables the user to more easily see, and thus more easily interact with, each of the windows in 3D volume 504.

Transparent display device 102 enables the user to interact with the multiple windows in open 3D volume 504 by positioning one or both of the user"s hands near the multiple windows in 3D space 206. For example, in FIG. 5 cif the user moves the user"s hand to one of the multiple windows 506 in 3D volume 504, the movement of the user"s hand is sensed by hand tracker 126 which generates 3D-input. Controller 122 receives the 3D-input and controls transparent screen 124 to render selected window 506 as selected. For example, in FIG. 5 ccontroller 122 controls transparent display device 102 to render window 506 as selected by causing window 506 to “pop up” out of 3D volume 504. Popping window 506 out of 3D volume 504 enables the user to see more information regarding window 506. The user can then select window 506, such as by pinching the window, to display the window as a 2D image on transparent screen 124.

In various embodiments, transparent display device 102 is configured to provide feedback on transparent screen 124 based on the location of the user"s hands in 3D space 206. In one embodiment, for example, controller 122 alters the color of the transparent screen based on the location of the user"s hand. In FIG. 5 c, for example, controller 122 can cause an area around window 506 to glow as the user reaches the user"s hand towards window 506. This feedback helps the user interact with the windows in 3D space 206. In another embodiment, a 3D cursor can be displayed which is mapped to a position of the user"s hand or finger. In another embodiment, controller 122 can cause a part of the screen to not be rendered based on the location of the user"s hand to render an illusion of the user"s hand being in front of a virtual object.

FIG. 6 is a flow diagram depicting an example method 600 implemented by a transparent display device. Block 602 renders an image on a transparent screen of a computing device. For example, transparent display device 102 (FIG. 1) renders a 2D or a 3D image on transparent screen 124 of the transparent display device.

Block 604 receives 2D-input from a user via an input panel positioned behind the transparent screen. For example, transparent display device 102 receives 2D-input from a user via input panel 128 that is positioned behind transparent screen 124. Input panel 128 may include any combination of a keyboard configured to receive key-input, or a mouse, track pad, or touch pad configured to receive touch-input.

Block 606 modifies the rendering of the image based on the 2D-input from the user. For example, controller 122 controls transparent display device 102 to modify the rendering of the 2D or 3D image on transparent screen 124 based on the 2D-input received from the user via input panel 128.

Block 608 senses movement of one of the user"s hands to reach into a 3D space behind the transparent screen, and block 610 generates 3D-input based on the movement of the user"s hand. For example, hand tracker 126 senses movement of one or both of the user"s hand to reach into 3D space 206 (FIG. 2) behind transparent screen 124, and generates 3D-input based on the movement.

Block 612 slides the rendering of the image on the screen to reveal one or more virtual objects that appear to be in the 3D-space behind the transparent screen responsive to receiving the 3D-input. For example, controller 122 controls transparent display device 102 to slide the rendering of the 2D or 3D image displayed on transparent screen 124 to reveal one or more virtual objects that appear to be in 3D space 2