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Computerized globe/almanac system

  • US 5,057,024 A
  • Filed: 08/22/1988
  • Issued: 10/15/1991
  • Est. Priority Date: 08/01/1986
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
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1. A computer controlled globe almanac comprising:

  • a globe having an outer surface;

    means for rotating the globe to a selected viewing orientation relative to a viewer;

    inserts attached to the globe outer surface via holes therein, said inserts defining regions and points corresponding to selected geographic and political features;

    at least one illumination source, said illumination source optically coupled to a selected one of the inserts via one of said holes for internally illuminating said selected insert;

    an optical light pipe means between said illumination source and said selected insert comprising an opaque cylinder in said one hole and a light pipe in said cylinder, for channeling light from said illumination source to said selected insert;

    computer means controlling the rotating means to effect rotation of the globe to the selected viewing orientation and controlling activation of the illumination source to illuminate selected points and regions; and

    the globe being mounted on a base housing, said base housing including power and control wiring for the globe rotation means and illumination source, said globe further comprising;

    a shaft having one end mounted to the base housing and a second end extending into the globe for mounting the globe and routing said wiring into the globe;

    a mounting plate mounted internally within the globe co-axially with said shaft;

    said globe rotation means including a motor mounted on said mounting plate and adapted for rotating the globe about said shaft; and

    p1 a slip ring assembly mounted on the second end of said shaft and to the mounting plate for connecting said wiring to said illumination source and said rotating means.

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