Ornament with image projector

TECHNICAL FIELD

0001This document relates to decorating with a lighted device, such as a holiday ornament.

BACKGROUND

0002Decorations are often used as part of a celebration of an event or a season. For example, a living area or a shopping mall may be decorated with a Christmas tree having strings of lights and colored bulbs as part of the Christmas holiday season. A larger decoration placed on the top of a Christmas tree could be perceived as the main attraction of the Christmas tree. In another example, a Menorah or other lighted decoration may be employed as part of a Chanukah celebration.

0003In some circumstances, lighting effects may be used to provide a desired appearance to the decorations. For example, a jack-o-lantern pumpkin ornament may include an internal light bulb to produce a glowing effect during the nighttime celebration of Halloween. In an alternative example, if a decorative device is intended to appear as a Menorah, the device may be a formed part having colorations and the shape of a nine-branched candelabrum. Such a Menorah decoration may incorporate light bulbs at the tips of the candles to provide the appearance of burning candles.

SUMMARY

0004A decorative device may include both an ornament structure and an integral projector device to display on a wall, ceiling, etc. an image optionally associated with the a decorative theme of the ornament structure. In various embodiments, the decoration apparatus may include one or more internal lights that provide lighting effects in combination with decorative elements formed in the ornament structure. In one embodiment, the decorative apparatus may be disposed proximal to the top of a Christmas tree so that the internal lighting effects of the apparatus may adorn the tree while the external projection may be displayed on a ceiling or wall near the apparatus. The decorative apparatus may include an ornament portion having a plurality of decorative elements formed in the ornament portion. The decorative apparatus may also include a base portion operable to releasably mount to a top portion of a tree. The apparatus may further include a projector device having a projection light source. When the projection light source is activated, light is emitted to project a pattern onto a remote surface, such as a ceiling or a wall.

0005These and other embodiments may be configured to provide one or more of the following advantages. First, the decoration apparatus may have the structure of a tree topper decoration that utilizes its location near a ceiling or a wall to provide both internal lighting effects and an external projection of a decorative pattern. Second, the decoration apparatus may include synchronized light effects that simulate a recognizable light pattern, such as the brightening and fading effects of a star. Third, the decoration apparatus may employ light piping and back lighting effects to enhance the surface and edge elements formed in the ornament structure. Fourth, the decoration apparatus may include both substantially upward and forward light projection. The forward light projection may be provided when light from internally disposed light sources is emitted through a pattern of openings in the front face of the ornament structure. The substantially upward light projection may be provided when a projection device has a sufficiently bright LIGHT SOURCE to display a pattern onto a nearby surface. The projected pattern may be substantially defined by an image-bearing mask (e.g., a film negative or a stencil), which is magnified and focused when the light passes through a set of lenses. Alternatively, the projected pattern may be defined by an LCD (liquid crystal display) projection panel so as to provide a moving image or a changing sequence of images.

0006The details of one or more embodiments of the invention are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

0007<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1A</figref> is a perspective view of a decoration apparatus in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

0008<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1B</figref> is a front view of a tree and the decoration apparatus of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1A</figref>.

0009<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> is a side view of the decoration apparatus of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1A</figref>.

0010<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> is a cross-sectional view of the decoration apparatus of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref>.

0011<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> is a front view of the decoration apparatus of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1A</figref>.

0012<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> is a rear view of the decoration apparatus of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1A</figref>.

0013<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> is a top view of the decoration apparatus of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1A</figref>.

0014<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref> is a bottom view of the decoration apparatus of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1A</figref>.

0015<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref> is a cross-sectional view of a decoration apparatus in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

0016<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref> is a section view of a portion of the decoration apparatus of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>.

0017<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref> is a section view of a projector device in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

0018<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref> is a top view of the projector device of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref>.

0019<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref> is a section view of a portion of the projector device and a portion of the decoration apparatus of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>.

0020<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref> is a schematic diagram for a decoration apparatus in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

0021<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14</figref> is a perspective view of a decoration apparatus in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

0022<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref> is a cross-sectional view of the decoration apparatus of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14</figref>.

0023<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16</figref> is a front view of a tree and the decoration apparatus of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14</figref>, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

0024<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 17</figref> is a front view of a tree and the decoration apparatus of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14</figref>, in accordance with yet another embodiment of the invention.

0025Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

0026Referring to FIGS. <b>1</b>A-B, a decoration <b>100</b> may include an ornament structure <b>120</b> and a projector device <b>160</b>. In some embodiments, the decoration <b>100</b> may be configured to function as tree topper device and may include a base <b>110</b> that releasably attaches to a top portion of a Christmas tree <b>101</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1B</figref>). In this embodiment, the ornament structure <b>120</b> is shown as a star-shaped structure, but it should be recognized other embodiments of the decoration <b>100</b> may have a shape familiar to an applicable season or event, such as the shape of an angel or a Santa Claus character that is sometimes associated with the Christmas season. It should also be understood that other embodiments of the decoration <b>100</b> may be configured to be placed on a mantle, a tabletop, a wall, or other decorative locations. In those embodiments, the base <b>110</b> may have a different shape so as to facilitate placement of the decoration <b>100</b> in those various locations.

0027Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1A</figref>, the ornament structure <b>120</b> may include one or more hollow portions <b>122</b>. The hollow portions <b>122</b> may include decorative elements, such as die-cut openings <b>124</b> formed in the front surface thereof, each of which may be enhanced by one or more internal light sources. The light emitted from the internal light sources may project forwardly through the openings <b>124</b> from inside the hollow portion <b>124</b> (refer also to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>). In this embodiment, the hollow portions <b>122</b> are configured to be the points of the star-shaped ornament structure <b>120</b>, and the die-cut openings <b>124</b> formed in the surface of the hollow portions <b>122</b> have a decorative pattern that is similar on each of the points. In addition, the hollow portions <b>122</b> may comprise a light transmissive material that permits at least some light to transmit through the material, thereby providing a glowing appearance. For example, the ornament structure <b>120</b> may comprise a substantially translucent SAN (Styrene Acrylonitrile) material, which permits some light from the internal light sources to transmit through the material. In such circumstances, each hollow portion <b>122</b> may have provide a low-level glow while substantially brighter light emits through the openings <b>124</b>. In certain embodiments, the internal surfaces of the hollow portions <b>122</b> may have a substantially reflective coating (e.g., a white colored surface coating) applied there to enhance the light that is emitted through the die-cut openings <b>124</b>. In those embodiments, the light projected from the openings <b>124</b> may be much brighter than any light that is transmitted through the outer shell material of the hollow portions <b>122</b>.

0028In the embodiment shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11A</figref>, the ornament structure <b>120</b> may include a central portion <b>132</b> that includes another decorative element, such as an surface pattern <b>134</b> formed in the front surface thereof. In this embodiment, the surface pattern <b>134</b> comprises a snowflake pattern, but it should be understood that other surface patterns may be formed in the central portion <b>132</b>. The central portion <b>132</b> may include a hollow chamber in which an central light source is disposed (as shown, for example, in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>). The surface pattern <b>134</b> may be embossed in a substantially transparent or translucent material such that the central light source causes the surface pattern <b>134</b> to glow. If, for example, the ornament structure <b>120</b> comprises a substantially translucent SAN (Styrene Acrylonitrile) material, some light from the internal central light source may transmit through the central portion <b>132</b> to provide a low-level glowing appearance, but the surface pattern <b>134</b> may appear substantially brighter or more defined by the light. This backlighting effect may be caused by the light passing through the embossed material and bending at different angles in the curves, grooves, corners, and edges of the surface pattern <b>134</b>.

0029Still referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1A</figref>, the ornament structure <b>120</b> may include one or more substantially solid members <b>142</b> that are capable of transmitting light from an internal light source. For example, the substantially solid members <b>142</b> may employ light from a central light source <b>138</b> to provide lighting effects such as light piping and edge lighting (as shown, for example, in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>). In this embodiment, the substantially solid members <b>142</b> are configured to be the points of the star-shaped ornament structure <b>120</b> such that the hollow portions <b>122</b> comprise a front star points and the substantially solid members <b>142</b> comprise a back star points. Together, the hollow portions <b>122</b> and the substantially solid members <b>142</b> may operate to provide lighting effects that simulate a glowing star (described in more detail below). The substantially solid members <b>142</b> may comprise a light transmissive material that permits at least some light to transmit through the material. For example, the ornament structure <b>120</b> may comprise a substantially translucent SAN (Styrene Acrylonitrile) material, which permits some light from an internal light source to transmit through the material. In this embodiment, the light from the central internal light source (as shown, for example, in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>) may be transmitted through a first, inwardly facing edge of each substantially solid member <b>142</b>. The light passes through each member <b>142</b>, causing a light piping effect and thereby providing a glowing appearance. Some light traveling through the members <b>142</b> may pass through the surface patterns <b>144</b> formed in the front surface of each member <b>142</b>. The surface patterns <b>144</b> in the substantially solid members <b>142</b> may appear brighter or more defined by the light due to the light bending at different angles in the curves, grooves, corners, and edges of the surface patterns <b>144</b>. Also in this embodiment, some light transmitting through the members <b>142</b> may pass through the outwardly facing edges <b>146</b> of each member <b>142</b>, causing an edge lighting effect. The edges <b>146</b> of each member <b>142</b> may appear brighter or more defined by the light (compared to the front and rear surfaces) due to the light bending at different angles along the beveled edge surfaces <b>146</b>.

0030Accordingly, the embodiment shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> may include one or more internal light sources that enhance decorative elements in the ornament structure <b>120</b>. Such internal lighting effects may be accomplished by projecting light forward through openings <b>124</b> in the surface of the hollow portions <b>122</b>, by backlighting through a surface pattern <b>134</b> formed the central portion <b>132</b>, by light piping through the substantially solid members <b>142</b> to provide a glowing effect, by edge lighting through the outwardly facing ends <b>146</b> of the substantially solid members <b>142</b>, or by a combination thereof.

0031Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1B</figref>, some embodiments of the decoration <b>100</b> may be configured as a tree topper device, which may be releasably attached to an upper portion (e.g., proximal to the top stem) of a Christmas tree <b>101</b>. In the depicted embodiment, the base <b>110</b> has a tubular shape that is adapted to receive the top stem or another portion of the Christmas tree <b>101</b>. Other configurations of the base <b>110</b> may include a supplemental shaft that extends downward from the base <b>110</b> and is secured to a substantially rigid portion of the Christmas tree <b>101</b> using Velcro™ straps or the like. As previously described, the decoration <b>100</b> may include a projector device <b>160</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1A</figref>) that is capable of providing a light pattern on a nearby surface <b>102</b>, such as a ceiling or a wall. In the embodiments in which the decoration <b>100</b> is configured as a tree topper device, the intended site (proximal to the pinnacle of a tree <b>101</b> and positioned near a surface <b>102</b>) may be fully utilized both to adorn the tree <b>101</b> with an internally lit device and to decorate a nearby surface <b>102</b>. As such, the decoration <b>100</b> may provide multi-functionality while consuming a relatively small amount of space. Moreover, the decorative design that is used to adorn the tree <b>101</b> may be associated to the projected pattern display on the nearby surface <b>102</b>. For example, the projector device <b>160</b> may be equipped with an image-bearing mask (described in more detail below) having a stars and snowflake pattern that is projected onto the surface <b>102</b>, which is associated with the stars and snowflake design of the ornament structure <b>120</b>. In such embodiments, the decorative theme used to adorn the tree <b>101</b> may be part of a greater theme to decorate other parts of the room.

0032Referring now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2-3</figref>, some embodiments the ornament structure <b>120</b> may be coupled to the base <b>110</b> by one or more support shafts <b>115</b>, <b>116</b>, and <b>117</b>. In such embodiments, the ornament structure <b>120</b> may be positioned forwardly of the base <b>110</b> and the projector device <b>160</b> so that the project device is substantially concealed from the front side of the decoration <b>100</b>. Some of the shafts, such as shafts <b>116</b> and <b>117</b>, may be hollow so as to accommodate wires that are connected to the internal light sources <b>128</b> and the internal central light source <b>138</b> (shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>). The base <b>110</b> and the shafts <b>116</b> and <b>117</b> may comprise a substantially rigid and flame-resistant material, such a polymer or metal material. For example, the base <b>110</b> and shafts <b>116</b> and <b>117</b> may be thermoformed from Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) material.

0033The base <b>110</b> may comprise a tubular body that includes one or more cavities <b>112</b> and <b>114</b> and that houses the projector device <b>160</b>. In this embodiment, a first cavity <b>112</b> is disposed near the bottom of the base <b>110</b> and is configured to receive an upper portion of a tree <b>101</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1B</figref>). Also, the base <b>110</b> may include a second cavity <b>114</b> that is adapted to receive a supplemental support shaft (not shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2-3</figref>) that can extend downwardly and be releasably attached to a substantially rigid portion of the tree <b>101</b>. In other embodiments in which the decoration <b>100</b> is configured to be mounted on a mantle, a tabletop, a wall, or other decorative locations, the base <b>110</b> may include cavities or mounting brackets in various arrangements so as to facilitate placement of the decoration <b>100</b> in those locations. For example, some embodiments of the decoration <b>100</b> may include a base having a mounting bracket with a substantially horizontal bottom surface. In such embodiments, the flat bottom surface of the base may be used to retain the decoration in an upright position as the decoration <b>100</b> is placed on a mantle or a tabletop.

0034Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>, the projector device <b>160</b> may be housed in an upper portion of the base <b>110</b> so that a light pattern can be projected from the decoration <b>100</b>. In this embodiment, the projector device <b>160</b> may comprise a projection light source <b>168</b>, an image pattern <b>162</b>, and one or more lenses <b>166</b> and <b>167</b> to magnify and/or focus the image. The projection light source <b>168</b> may be a megabright light-emitting diode (single or multicolor) so as to provide greater clarity and brightness to the image pattern projected to the nearby surface. For example, the projection light source <b>168</b> may be a water-clear white UB light-emitting diode having a brightness of 13,000 mcd (Millicandelas) or greater. In this example, the projected image may be about 20-inches wide when projected on a targeted surface at a distance of about 24-inches from the projector device <b>160</b>. In this embodiment, the projector device <b>160</b> is arranged to provide the light pattern in a generally upward direction (see, e.g., <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1B</figref>), yet other embodiments of the decoration <b>100</b> may include a projector device <b>160</b> that is capable of projecting a light pattern in a non-vertical direction, such as sideways toward a wall surface or angled downwardly toward a nearby floor surface.

0035Still referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>, the decoration <b>100</b> may include an central light source <b>138</b> that is disposed proximal to the central portion <b>132</b>. The central light source <b>138</b> may emit light that is transmitted through the surface pattern <b>134</b> to provide the previously described backlighting effects. In addition, the central light source <b>138</b> may emit that is transmitted through the substantially solid members <b>142</b> to provide the previously described light piping effects and the edge lighting effects. For example, a portion of the light emitted from the central light source <b>138</b> may pass through the inwardly facing edge of each substantially solid member <b>142</b>, through the body of the member <b>142</b>, and out the front and rear faces <b>148</b> and <b>149</b>. Such an operation may cause a light piping effect so that the substantially solid member <b>142</b> has a glowing appearance. In addition, some light passing through the body of each member <b>142</b> may exit from the outwardly facing edges <b>146</b>, which can provide the previously described edge lighting effects. Accordingly, the central light source <b>138</b> can be the source for backlighting effects through the surface pattern <b>134</b> and for the light piping and edge lighting effect through the members <b>142</b>. In some embodiments, the central light source <b>138</b> may be an incandescent light bulb having a brightness of about 0.4 MSCP (Mean Spherical Candlepower). Such a light source may provide a sufficient amount of brightness depending upon the transmissivity of the ornament structure material, the thickness of the ornament structure walls, and other factors.

0036In the embodiment shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>, each hollow portion <b>122</b> is equipped with an associated light source <b>128</b> that is capable of emitting light to forwardly project out of the openings <b>124</b> formed in the front side of each hollow portion <b>122</b>. For example, in the embodiment depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1A</figref> and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>, the decoration <b>100</b> includes five hollow portions <b>122</b>, each having the shape of a point of a star. Each of the five hollow portions <b>122</b> includes a light source <b>128</b> disposed at least partially therein, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>. In such circumstances, each of the hollow portions <b>122</b> may be independently illuminated such that the star points can be synchronized to display various brightening and fading effects that substantially simulate starlight. As described in more detail below, one or more programmable controllers may be employed to independently illuminate/dim the internal light sources <b>28</b>. Each of the light sources <b>128</b> may be a light-emitting diode (multicolored or single color). Each light source <b>128</b> may emit a light color similar to or different from the central light source <b>138</b> and/or the other light sources <b>128</b>. In one example, the central light source <b>138</b> emits a substantially white light through the surface pattern <b>134</b> and through the substantially solid members <b>142</b> while each of the light sources <b>128</b> emits a substantially yellow light through the openings <b>124</b> in the hollow portions <b>122</b>. When such a multicolored arrangement of this example is used in combination with the synchronized brightening/fading effects in the star-point portions, the decoration <b>100</b> may provide a pleasing simulation of sparkling starlight that includes a bright, white light near the center and includes a time-varying, yellow light near star points.

0037Still referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>, each of the light sources <b>128</b> may be electrically connected to a circuit <b>170</b> using wires <b>129</b>. In this embodiment, the wires <b>129</b> pass through the hollow shaft <b>115</b> to connect to the circuit <b>170</b> disposed in the tubular body of the base <b>110</b>. Also in this embodiment, the central light source <b>138</b> is electrically connected to the circuit <b>170</b> via wires <b>139</b> that pass through the hollow shaft <b>117</b>. The projection light source <b>168</b> may be electrically connected to the circuit <b>170</b> using wires or using a surface mount connection. In the embodiment shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>, the projection light source <b>168</b> is positioned near the circuit <b>170</b> so that the projection light source <b>168</b> may be surface mounted directly to the circuit <b>170</b>. The circuit <b>170</b> may be electrically connected to a power source (not shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>) using a wire <b>172</b> that passes through the base <b>110</b>. The wire <b>172</b> may include a knot <b>174</b> or a strain relief member so as to prevent the wire <b>172</b> from being pulled out of connection with the circuit <b>170</b>. As described in more detail below in connection with <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref>, the circuit <b>170</b> may include a programmable controller that is capable of independently illuminating and fading the light sources that are electrically connected thereto.

0038Referring now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 4-5</figref>, the ornament structure <b>120</b> may be disposed in front of the body of the base <b>110</b> so as to conceal a substantial portion of the base <b>110</b>. In such circumstances, the projector device <b>160</b> that is housed in the base <b>110</b> may be substantially concealed from view from the front side of the decoration <b>100</b>. By substantially concealing the projector device <b>160</b> from direct view from the front side, the projector device <b>160</b> may provide a light pattern on an nearby surface <b>102</b> (see, e.g., <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1B</figref>) without detracting from the adornment features provided by the ornament structure <b>120</b> and the internally disposed light sources <b>128</b> and <b>138</b>. In some embodiments in which the decoration <b>100</b> is configured to be a tree topper device, the decorative elements (e.g., the openings <b>124</b> and the surface patterns <b>134</b> and <b>144</b>) may be formed primarily on the front side of the decoration, which can be the portion of the decoration <b>100</b> that is generally exposed to viewers. By forming the decorative elements on the primarily viewed portion, the manufacturing costs may be reduced without substantially detracting from the adornment provided by the decoration <b>100</b>. Although the embodiment depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 4-5</figref> show the decorative elements (e.g., the openings <b>124</b> and the surface patterns <b>134</b> and <b>144</b>) formed primarily on the front side of the decoration <b>100</b>, it should be understood that other embodiments may include similarly formed decorative elements on the rear side of the decoration. For example, surface patterns <b>144</b> may be formed on the rear side of the substantially solid members <b>142</b>, and some die-cut openings <b>124</b> may be formed on the rear side of the hollow portions <b>122</b>.

0039Referring now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref>, some embodiments of the decoration may include the projector device <b>160</b> proximal an upper portion of the base <b>110</b> so that the projector device is directed in a substantially upward direction. As previously described, the projector device <b>160</b> may include an image-bearing mask <b>162</b>. One or more lenses <b>166</b> and <b>167</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>) may be positioned over the image-bearing mask <b>162</b> so as to magnify and/or focus the light image that is projected from the projection light source <b>168</b> through the image-bearing mask <b>162</b>. The mask <b>162</b> may be disposed on a substrate so that light does not pass through generally opaque portions of the mask <b>162</b>, but may pass through openings or substantially transparent portion in the mask <b>162</b>. For example, the image-bearing mask <b>162</b> may be formed as a stencil in a generally opaque substrate. In this example, the substrate may be a polymer or plastic disc having apertures formed therein to produce the desired image pattern <b>162</b>. In another example, the image-bearing mask <b>162</b> may be formed as a film negative of the desired image. In such circumstances, the film negative may have substantially opaque, dark areas through which light does not generally pass and may also have substantially transparent portions that produce the desired image. The film may have a colored tint, such as a red or green tint, so that the projected image appears in that color. Alternatively, a colored gel layer may be positioned between the projection light source <b>168</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>) and the projection surface <b>102</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1B</figref>) so that the projected image appears in that color. In the embodiment depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref>, the image-bearing mask <b>162</b> comprises a snowflake and star pattern, but it should be understood that other image patterns may be used depending upon the holiday or season being celebrated and/or depending upon theme included in the decorative elements (e.g., surface patterns <b>134</b> and <b>144</b>) of the ornament structure <b>120</b>. In one example, the ornament structure <b>120</b> may have the shape of an angel or may have decorative elements (e.g., surface patterns <b>134</b> and <b>144</b>) in the shape of angels. In such cases, the image-bearing mask <b>162</b> of the projector device <b>160</b> may be in the shape of an angel, a halo, angel wings, or another thematically related image.

0040In some embodiments, the image-bearing mask <b>162</b> may be removable from the housing of the decoration <b>100</b>. In such circumstances, a user may remove a first mask <b>162</b> and replace it with a second mask so that a different image pattern is projected onto the nearby surface. A series of masks <b>162</b>, each having a different image pattern thereon, can be provided to the user in the form of removable cartridges that can be inserted into an input slot proximal to the projection light source <b>168</b>.

0041Referring now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref>, some embodiments of the base <b>110</b> may include one or more cavities proximal the bottom portion of the base <b>110</b>. As previously described, the first cavity <b>112</b> is disposed near the bottom of the base <b>110</b> and is configured to receive an upper stem of a tree <b>101</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1B</figref>). Also, the second cavity <b>114</b> that is adapted to receive a supplemental support shaft (not shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2-3</figref>) that can extend downwardly and be releasably attached to a substantially rigid portion of the tree <b>101</b>. In other embodiments in which the decoration <b>100</b> is configured to be mounted on a mantle, a tabletop, a wall, or other decorative locations, the base <b>110</b> may include cavities or mounting brackets in other arrangements so as to facilitate placement of the decoration <b>100</b> in those locations.

0042Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>, another embodiment of the decoration <b>200</b> may include a self-contained projector device <b>260</b> that is fit into the upper portion of the base <b>110</b>. As previously described in connection with <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1-7</figref>, the decoration <b>200</b> may include the hollow portions <b>122</b>, the central portion <b>132</b>, the substantially solid members <b>142</b>, the light sources <b>128</b>, the central light source <b>138</b>, the circuit <b>170</b>, and other previously described components. Furthermore, the decoration <b>200</b> may have similar decorative elements (e.g., openings <b>124</b> and surface patterns <b>134</b> and <b>144</b>) and similar lighting effects, as previously described in connection with <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1-7</figref>. In the depicted embodiment, the projector device <b>260</b> may include an outer shell <b>261</b> that houses the projection light source <b>268</b>, the image-bearing mask <b>262</b>, and one or more lenses <b>265</b>, <b>266</b>, and <b>267</b>. The projector device <b>260</b> may be electrically connected to the circuit <b>170</b> using a wire <b>269</b>. The projection device <b>260</b> may be readily assembled into the base <b>110</b> without the need to individually insert and align the projection light source <b>268</b>, the image-bearing mask <b>262</b>, and the lenses <b>265</b>, <b>266</b>, and <b>267</b>. As such, the assembly time and costs may be reduced because the lenses and image pattern can be retained and aligned within the outer shell <b>261</b> before the final assembly of the decoration <b>200</b> occurs. In this embodiment, the projection device <b>260</b> is simply inserted into the appropriate portion of the base <b>110</b> and then electrically connected to the circuit <b>170</b> using the wire.

0043Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref>, the projector device <b>260</b> may be secured in the base <b>110</b> using one or more retainer members <b>118</b>. The retainer members may be integrally formed with the base <b>110</b> so that, when the base <b>110</b> is assembled, the retainer members <b>118</b> are mateable with complimentary circumferential grooves formed in the outer shell <b>261</b> of the projector device <b>260</b>. Such a configuration permits the projector device <b>260</b> to be readily installed into the base <b>110</b>. Furthermore, the retainer members <b>118</b> may be used during assembly to assure that the projector device <b>260</b> is substantially aimed in the predetermined direction (e.g., upwardly, angled incline, or another direction).

0044Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 10-11</figref>, the projector device <b>260</b> may be assembled such that an image-bearing mask <b>262</b> is disposed between the projection light source <b>268</b> (as shown, for example, in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref>) in the base of the device and the one or more lenses <b>265</b>, <b>266</b>, and <b>267</b>. The image-bearing mask <b>262</b> may include, for example, a stencil having apertures through which light from the projection light source <b>268</b> may pass. In another example, the image-bearing mask <b>262</b> may be a film negative having substantially transparent or translucent portion through which light from the projection light source <b>268</b> may pass. In this embodiment, the light from the projection light source <b>268</b> passes through the lenses <b>265</b>, <b>266</b>, and <b>267</b> so as to magnify and focus the lighted pattern into a projected image. For example, the projected image may be about 20-inches wide when projected onto the targeted surface at a distance of about 24-inches from the projector device <b>260</b>. In this embodiment, the projector device <b>260</b> is arranged to provide the light pattern in a generally upward direction (see, e.g., <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>), yet other embodiments of the decoration <b>200</b> may include a projector device <b>260</b> that is capable of projecting a light pattern in a non-vertical direction, such as angled at an incline toward a wall surface, directed sideways toward a wall surface, or angled downwardly toward a nearby floor surface.

0045Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref>, the projection light source <b>268</b> may be disposed in a conical base portion of the projector device <b>260</b>. The conical base portion may have a reflective interior surface so that the light emitted from the projection light source <b>268</b> is substantially directed outwardly toward the image pattern <b>262</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 10-11</figref>) and the lenses <b>265</b>, <b>266</b>, and <b>267</b>. As previously described, the projection light source <b>268</b> may be a megabright light-emitting diode (single or multicolor) so as to provide greater clarity and brightness to the lighted pattern projected to the nearby surface. In one example, the projection light source <b>268</b> may be a water-clear white UB light-emitting diode having a brightness of 13,000 mcd (Millicandelas) or greater.

0046Referring now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref>, the circuit <b>170</b> described in connection with <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3 and 8</figref> may include a programmable controller <b>178</b> to independently illuminate and dim any combination of the light sources. In this embodiment, a power source <b>173</b> supplies the circuit <b>170</b> with power. The power source could be, for example, a battery power supply, or a AC-DC adapter, or any other DC power source. As previously described in connection with <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3 and 8</figref>, the power source may be connected to the circuit <b>170</b> via a wire <b>172</b>. At least one of the light sources may be powered without the use of the controller <b>178</b>. For example, the light source <b>138</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3 and 8</figref>) may be constantly illuminated when power is provided to the circuit <b>170</b>. In such embodiments, the light source <b>138</b> is not controlled by signals from the controller <b>178</b>. In other embodiments (not shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref>), the light source <b>138</b> could be controlled by the controller <b>178</b>.

0047The controller <b>178</b> may include multiple outputs to individually control one or more light sources or other light sources. For example, as shown, the controller <b>178</b> includes an output (OUT<b>1</b>) to control the projection light source <b>168</b>. The controller <b>178</b> may be capable of being programmed to apply a voltage to the projection light source <b>168</b>, and the voltage may vary over time. With the current limiting resistor in place, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref>, a change in the voltage at the output causes a change in current through the light source, which may result in a corresponding change in brightness of the light source <b>168</b>. Based on time variation in the voltage output, the controller <b>178</b> may cause the light source <b>168</b> to turn on, turn off, or maintain varying levels of brightness.

0048Similarly, each of the light sources <b>128</b> may be coupled to an independent output of the controller <b>178</b>. Again, the controller <b>178</b> may turn on, turn off, or selectively increase or decrease the light intensity of each light source <b>128</b> by varying the applied voltage. The voltage may be varied over time to illuminate the light sources in a particular pattern or at predetermined time intervals. For example, the controller <b>178</b> may store a one or more time-varying voltage patterns for each output that may, for example, be repeated or randomly selected.

0049In some embodiments, at least a portion of the circuit <b>170</b> may be formed on a printed circuit board that is configured to fit within the housing of the base <b>110</b> (as shown, for example, in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3 and 8</figref>). The programmable controller <b>178</b> may be a commercially available electronic device or a more complex module, depending on the sequencing of the control signals and the technology used to project the light pattern. For example, in some implementations, the programmable controller <b>178</b> could comprise a voice synthesizer device capable of storing one or more channels of data that can be output as time-varying voltage waveforms. In certain embodiments, the circuit <b>170</b> may include other components, such as a nonvolatile memory module (e.g., a flash memory module) or a high speed processor unit. Some of these additional components may be employed, for example, in embodiments in which the projected image changes over time (e.g., a numeric countdown of days until a celebrated event), the projected image includes motion, or the projected image includes a digital image uploaded by a user, as described in more detail below.

0050Referring now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 14-15</figref>, another embodiment of a decoration <b>300</b> may include a projector device <b>360</b> that is capable of projecting an image that changes over time, includes a moving object, or includes a digital image uploaded by a user. As previously described in connection with <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1-7</figref>, the decoration <b>300</b> may include the hollow portions <b>122</b>, the central portion <b>132</b>, the substantially solid members <b>142</b>, the light sources <b>128</b>, the central light source <b>138</b>, and other previously described components. Furthermore, the decoration <b>300</b> may have similar decorative elements (e.g., openings <b>124</b> and surface patterns <b>134</b> and <b>144</b>) and similar lighting effects, as previously described in connection with <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1-7</figref>. In the depicted embodiment, the upper portion of the base <b>110</b> is angled rearwardly so that the projector device <b>360</b> is not directed vertically upward. In such circumstances, the decoration <b>300</b> may be used to project an image onto a nearby surface, such as a ceiling <b>302</b> or a wall <b>303</b> (see, e.g., <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 16-17</figref>). Also, the decoration <b>300</b> may have a data input port <b>385</b> to receive a data cable or to receive a removable memory device. The data input port <b>385</b> may be employed, for example, in embodiments in which the circuit <b>370</b> includes a memory module <b>375</b>.

0051Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref>, certain embodiments of the projector device <b>360</b> may include an LCD (liquid crystal display) projection panel <b>362</b> disposed near a projection light source <b>368</b> so that light from the projection light source <b>368</b> may be transmitted through the LCD projection panel <b>362</b>. The LCD projection panel <b>362</b> may include an active region <b>363</b> disposed between two substantially transparent or translucent panels. In such circumstances, the circuit <b>370</b> may be electrically connected to the LCD projection panel <b>362</b> using a wire <b>364</b> so that at least one controller on the circuit <b>170</b>, such as a commercially available LCD display controller chip, may modify the image that is displayed in the active region <b>363</b> of the LCD projection panel <b>362</b>. In one example, the LCD projection panel may have a display area of about 0.75 square inches to about 1.25 square inches and may be capable of displaying moving images in the active region <b>363</b>. Also in this example, the LCD projection panel may be capable of displaying multicolor images in the active region <b>363</b> using a two-dimensional array of red, green, and blue subpixels in the active region. Similar to the embodiment previously described in connection with <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>, the projector device <b>360</b> may be preassembled into a shell housing so as to facilitate prompt assembly of the decoration <b>300</b>.

0052When an image is displayed in the active region <b>362</b> of the LCD projection panel <b>362</b>, the projection light source <b>368</b> may transmit light through the panel <b>362</b>, through the lenses <b>366</b> and toward a nearby surface, such as a ceiling <b>302</b> or a wall <b>303</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 16-17</figref>). The projection light source <b>368</b> may be housed in a conical structure <b>369</b> having a reflective coating on the interior so that the light from the projection light source <b>368</b> is substantially reflected or transmitted out toward the LCD projection panel <b>362</b>. In some embodiments, the projection light source <b>368</b> may comprise a halogen bulb or a light-emitting diode that is capable of emitting light at a brightness of 50,000 mcd (Millicandelas) or greater.

0053As previously described, the circuit <b>370</b> may be equipped with a nonvolatile memory module <b>375</b> that is capable of storing electronic data, such as a digital image file or data related to a sequence of images to be displayed in the LCD projection panel <b>362</b>. In embodiments in which the circuit is at least partially formed on a printed circuit board, the memory module <b>375</b> may be, for example, a flash memory chip that is surface mounted to the circuit board. Alternatively, the memory module <b>375</b> may include a media that is removable, such as an SD memory chip. The data input port <b>385</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14</figref>) may be disposed proximal to the memory module <b>375</b> so that the memory module may be removably inserted from outside the housing of the decoration <b>300</b>. In one example, the port <b>385</b> may be a female jack to receive a data cable, through which a digital image file may be transferred to the memory module <b>375</b>. In another example, the port <b>385</b> may be embodied as a slot to receive a removable media, such as an SD memory chip.

0054Still referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 14-15</figref>, the memory chip <b>375</b> may be accessible by other components of the circuit <b>370</b> (e.g., a display controller) so that data stored in the memory module <b>375</b> may be used to display an image (or a sequence of images) in the active region <b>363</b> of the LCD projection panel <b>362</b>. In some embodiments, a user may transfer a digital image file (or a series of digital image files) through the data input port <b>385</b> and into the memory module <b>375</b>. When the decoration <b>300</b> is activated, the data stored in the memory module <b>375</b> may be used by the display controller (having the associated LCD driving circuitry) to display an image in the active region <b>363</b> of the LCD projection panel <b>362</b>. When the projection light source <b>368</b> to be illuminated, the light is transmitted from the light source <b>368</b>, through the LCD projection panel <b>362</b>, through the one or more lenses <b>366</b>, and toward a nearby surface. As such, the LCD projection panel <b>362</b> may be used to project an image that changes over time (e.g., a numeric countdown of days until a celebrated event), images appear to have motion, or one or more digital images (e.g., personal photographs) that were uploaded by a user.

0055Referring now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16</figref>, the decoration <b>300</b> that is equipped with the projector device <b>360</b> (having the LCD projection panel <b>362</b>) may be used to display an image that changes over time. In this embodiment, the displayed image <b>307</b> includes an element <b>308</b> that changes during predetermined time intervals, both of which may be projected from the LCD projection panel <b>362</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref>) of the projection device <b>360</b>. For example, the decoration <b>300</b> may be embodied as a tree topper device that is secured to the top portion of a Christmas tree <b>101</b>. In such circumstances, the decoration <b>300</b> may be used to project an image to a nearby wall <b>303</b> (or a ceiling <b>302</b>) that includes an image of Santa Claus and a countdown element <b>308</b>. The countdown element <b>308</b> may numerically count down the number of days until Christmas is celebrated. For example, the countdown element may show the numeral “10” on December 15 and may change to show the numeral “9” on December 16. By displaying this type of a changing image <b>307</b>, the decoration <b>300</b> provides both adornment for the Christmas tree <b>101</b> and a pleasurable image displayed on the wall <b>303</b> (or the ceiling <b>302</b>) that builds the anticipation for celebrated event. It should be understood, that other embodiments of the decoration <b>300</b> may be configured to display other Christmas related images, such as stars, angels, bells, holly, or the like. Also, the decoration <b>300</b> may be configured to display other images related to a particular event or season that is being celebrated, such as a menorah for Chanukah celebration, a graduation cap for a graduation celebration, fireworks for a July 4^thcelebration, or the like. Furthermore, other embodiments of the decoration <b>300</b> may be capable of displaying a sequence of images so that the projected pattern appears to have motion. For example, the projected image <b>307</b> shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16</figref> may include a Santa Clause that appears to move from the left side to the right side. Such a sequence of images may be periodically repeated by the decoration <b>300</b> and may be used in combination with the countdown element <b>308</b> or other changing image.

0056Referring now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 17</figref>, the decoration <b>300</b> that is equipped with the projector device <b>360</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref>) may be used to display one or more digital images, including personal photographs. As previously described, some embodiments of the decoration may include a data input port <b>385</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14</figref>) so that the user may upload the digital images to the memory module <b>375</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref>). In the embodiment depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 17</figref>, the displayed image <b>309</b> includes a digital photograph having sentimental value to the user. For example, the image <b>309</b> may show a family portrait, a photograph of a deceased relative, or the like. As previously described, the decoration <b>300</b> may be embodied as a tree topper device that is secured to the top portion of a Christmas tree <b>101</b> so that the image <b>309</b> may be projected to a nearby wall <b>303</b> (or a ceiling <b>302</b>). By displaying an image <b>309</b> from the user of the decoration <b>300</b>, the decoration <b>300</b> provides both adornment for the Christmas tree <b>101</b> and a sentimental image displayed on the wall <b>303</b> (or the ceiling <b>302</b>). In some embodiments, the decoration <b>300</b> may be capable of displaying a sequence of digital image files that are stored in the memory module <b>375</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref>). The sequence of images <b>309</b> that are projected onto the nearby surface <b>303</b> or <b>302</b> may include images of different relative or friends. In such circumstances, the projected images <b>309</b> may appear as a slide show of digital image files that cycles at predetermined time intervals.

0057In an alternative embodiment, the decoration <b>300</b> may be capable of projecting one or more personal photographs using a slide or film having the desired image pattern thereon. In such circumstances, the projector device may operate without the use of the LCD projection panel <b>362</b>. Rather, the light from the projection light source <b>368</b> may be passed through the film pattern and focused onto the targeted surface using one or more lenses, similar to some embodiments of the previously described image-bearing masks.

0058Various embodiments of the decoration <b>100</b>, <b>200</b>, or <b>300</b> may have an appearance other than the star-shaped structure shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1-8</figref> and <b>14</b>-<b>17</b>. For example, some embodiments of the decoration may have a shape familiar to an applicable season or event, such as the shape of an angel or a Santa Claus character that is sometimes associated with the Christmas season. In another example, the decoration may have a shape of a menorah that is associated with the celebration of Chanukah. In such circumstances, the image that is projected onto the nearby surface may include elements that are associated with the applicable season or event.

0059Certain embodiments of the decoration may be configured to be mounted in a location other that a tree top. For example, other embodiments of the decoration may be configured to be placed on a mantle, a tabletop, a wall, or other decorative locations. In those embodiments, the base of the decoration may a flat panel or a mounting bracket so as to facilitate placement of the decoration in the intended location.

0060A number of embodiments of the invention have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims.