US20140144055A1 - Systems and methods for providing an accessorizable frame system - Google Patents

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Classifications

• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
  • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
  • A47G1/00—Mirrors; Picture frames or the like, e.g. provided with heating, lighting or ventilating means
  • A47G1/06—Picture frames
  • A47G1/0616—Ornamental frames, e.g. with illumination, speakers or decorative features
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
  • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
  • A47G1/00—Mirrors; Picture frames or the like, e.g. provided with heating, lighting or ventilating means
  • A47G1/06—Picture frames
  • A47G1/0616—Ornamental frames, e.g. with illumination, speakers or decorative features
  • A47G1/0627—Ornamental frames, e.g. with illumination, speakers or decorative features with decorative strips or layers on the frame members
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
  • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
  • A47G1/00—Mirrors; Picture frames or the like, e.g. provided with heating, lighting or ventilating means
  • A47G1/06—Picture frames
  • A47G1/065—Interconnected frames; Frame assemblies; Frames for two or more pictures
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
  • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
  • A47G1/00—Mirrors; Picture frames or the like, e.g. provided with heating, lighting or ventilating means
  • A47G1/12—Frames or housings for storing medals, badges, or the like
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
  • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
  • A47G1/00—Mirrors; Picture frames or the like, e.g. provided with heating, lighting or ventilating means
  • A47G1/14—Photograph stands
  • A47G1/142—Supporting legs or feet
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
  • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
  • A47G1/00—Mirrors; Picture frames or the like, e.g. provided with heating, lighting or ventilating means
  • A47G1/16—Devices for hanging or supporting pictures, mirrors, or the like
  • A47G1/17—Devices for hanging or supporting pictures, mirrors, or the like using adhesives, suction or magnetism
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
  • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
  • A47G1/00—Mirrors; Picture frames or the like, e.g. provided with heating, lighting or ventilating means
  • A47G1/16—Devices for hanging or supporting pictures, mirrors, or the like
  • A47G1/22—Pin plates
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
  • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
  • A47G1/00—Mirrors; Picture frames or the like, e.g. provided with heating, lighting or ventilating means
  • A47G1/06—Picture frames
  • A47G2001/0666—Frontloading picture frames
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
  • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
  • A47G1/00—Mirrors; Picture frames or the like, e.g. provided with heating, lighting or ventilating means
  • A47G1/06—Picture frames
  • A47G2001/0672—Picture frames employing magnets
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
  • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
  • A47G1/00—Mirrors; Picture frames or the like, e.g. provided with heating, lighting or ventilating means
  • A47G1/06—Picture frames
  • A47G2001/0694—Picture frames comprising means allowing the frame to be supported on a horizontal surface

Definitions

• the present application relates to picture frames.
• the present invention provides systems and methods for providing an accessorizable frame system having a plurality of pieces that selectively connect to and disconnect from each other. Because certain pieces in the frame system can easily be connected to and disconnected from each other, the frame system is easily assembled, customized, and otherwise used to provide an aesthetically pleasing display.
• Frames such as picture frames, are known devices that are used to hold and display pictures, paintings, artwork, certificates, and the like.
• Conventional picture frames are available with a large variety of characteristics.
• picture frames comprise an outer square or rectangular frame, a backing, and/or a flat piece of glass or transparent plastic.
• artwork, or another object being displayed is often sandwiched between the backing and the piece of glass (or a retaining lip in the frame if the glass/plastic covering is not present).
• picture frames While conventional picture frames have proven useful as a means for holding and displaying certain objects, some conventional picture frames still have some shortcomings.
• some picture frames are not easily customizable or accessorizable. Accordingly, such picture frames can have a static appearance—as opposed to a dynamic appearance that can easily be changed for a variety of uses.
• some picture frames require tools for assembly or for hanging.
• certain picture frames require a relatively high level of skill to properly align a picture within the frame.
• some picture frames can be expensive to manufacture.
• the present application relates to picture frames.
• the present invention provides systems and methods for providing an accessorizable frame system having a plurality of pieces that selectively connect to and disconnect from each other. Because certain pieces in the frame system can be connected to and disconnected from each other, the frame system is easily assembled, customized, and otherwise used to provide an aesthetically pleasing display.
• the frame system can comprise any suitable component
• the frame system includes a display plate and a frame plate.
• the display plate and the frame plate can have any suitable characteristic that allows them to function as intended.
• the display plate comprises a first side and a second side, wherein the first side comprises a substantially flat display surface.
• the frame plate comprises a front side and a back side, wherein the back side comprises at least one receptacle for a connector, or a component that can support the frame system against a substrate (e.g., a wall, desk, refrigerator, a back cover, etc.).
• the frame plate has a larger perimeter than does the display plate. Accordingly, when the two plates are connected, at least a portion of the frame plate extends laterally past the display plate's perimeter.
• the frame plate and the display plate can be connected to each other in any suitable manner that allows the two components to be selectively connected to, and releasably disconnected from, each other.
• at least one clip extends from the display plate's second side and the frame plate comprises at least one receptacle that is sized and shaped to receive the clip.
• the frame system can comprise any other suitable component, including, but are not limited to, an aligner, a liner, a display plate grip, a frame plate tab, adhesive material, and/or a back cover.
• the various components may serve any suitable purpose.
• the aligner can help a user to properly align a piece of artwork on the display plate.
• the liner can be used to provide additional color, contrast, and/or another desired characteristic to the frame system.
• the back cover can cover the frame plate's back side and provide the frame system with a leg that allows the frame system to stand on its own.
• the systems and methods of the present invention have proven to be particularly useful in the area of framing photographs, awards, papers, certificates, paintings, drawings, artwork, silk screens, applied graphics, and other objects, those skilled in the art can appreciate that the described systems and methods can be used in a variety of different applications and in a variety of different areas of manufacture.
• the described frame system can also be used to display trophies, knick knacks, memorabilia, and other 3-dimensional objects.
• FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view of a representative embodiment of a frame system
• FIG. 1B illustrates a cross-sectional, exploded view of the frame system of FIG. 1A , cut along line A-A;
• FIG. 1C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the assembled frame system illustrated in FIG. 1A , cut along line A-A;
• FIG. 2A illustrates a side-plan view of a representative embodiment of a display plate
• FIG. 2B illustrates a perspective view of a display surface of the display plate of FIG. 2A ;
• FIG. 2C illustrates a cross-sectional view of a representative embodiment of the display plate comprising a raised edge that allows the display plate to function as a shadow box;
• FIG. 2D illustrates a perspective view of the display plate of FIG. 2C ;
• FIGS. 2E-2F each illustrate a perspective view of a representative embodiment of the display plate comprising a display plate grip
• FIG. 2G illustrates a side-plan view of a representative embodiment of a display plate
• FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view of a representative embodiment of a frame plate
• FIG. 3B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the frame plate of FIG. 3A , cut along line C-C;
• FIG. 3C illustrates a cross-sectional, exploded view of the frame system illustrated in FIG. 1A , cut along line A-A;
• FIG. 3D illustrates a top schematic view of a representative embodiment of the frame plate
• FIG. 3E illustrates a portion of the frame plate from FIG. 3C , illustrating a representative embodiment of a receptacle capable of receiving a push pin;
• FIGS. 4A-4C illustrate perspective views of some representative embodiments of a clip
• FIG. 4D illustrates a perspective view of a representative embodiment of the display plate
• FIGS. 4E-4G illustrate side views of a method for releasing the display plate from a catch
• FIG. 4H illustrates a perspective view of a representative embodiment of a frame plate tab
• FIG. 4I illustrates a cross-sectional view in which a representative embodiment of the frame system comprises a representative embodiment of the frame plate tab;
• FIGS. 4J-4L illustrate a representative method for releasing the clip from the frame plate in accordance with a representative embodiment of the invention
• FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a representative embodiment of an alignment member that is configured to hold the display plate square and firm with respect to the frame plate;
• FIG. 6A illustrates a perspective, top view of a representative embodiment of an aligner, wherein the aligner is configured to serve as a receptacle for a display medium to help mount the medium to the display plate, and wherein the aligner also comprises a transparent lens that is optionally used to cover and protect the display medium when the medium is displayed in the frame system;
• FIG. 6B illustrates a side schematic view of the aligner from FIG. 6A ;
• FIG. 6C illustrates a top schematic view of the aligner from FIG. 6A ;
• FIG. 7A illustrates a perspective view of a representative embodiment of a liner
• FIG. 7B illustrates a top schematic view of the liner from FIG. 7A ;
• FIG. 7C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the liner from FIG. 7A , cut along line D-D;
• FIG. 7D illustrates a cross-sectional view of the liner from FIG. 7A , cut along line E-E;
• FIG. 8A illustrates a top perspective view of a representative embodiment of a back cover
• FIG. 8B illustrates a side schematic view of the back cover of FIG. 8A ;
• FIG. 8C illustrates a top schematic view of the back cover of FIG. 8A ;
• FIG. 9A illustrates perspective view of a portion of a representative embodiment of the frame system comprising a representative embodiment of an additional border
• FIG. 9B illustrates a cross-sectional view of a representative embodiment of the frame plate and a representative embodiment of the additional border
• FIG. 9C illustrates a perspective view of a portion of a representative embodiment of two additional boarders connected together with a representative embodiment of a spring clip
• FIG. 10 illustrates a side schematic view of a representative embodiment of a separating bar.
• the present application relates to picture frames.
• the present invention provides systems and methods for providing an accessorizable frame system having a plurality of pieces that selectively connect to, and disconnect from, each other. Because certain pieces in the frame system can easily be connected to and disconnected from each other, the frame system is easily assembled, customized, and otherwise used to provide an aesthetically pleasing display.
• display media may refer to any suitable object that can be placed on or in the frame system for display.
• suitable display media include, but are not limited to, one or more photographs, certificates, pictures, drawings, paintings, canvases, applied graphics, silk screens, papers, awards, memorabilia, knick knacks, medals, trophies, keepsakes, and other suitable items.
• FIG. 1A illustrates a representative embodiment in which an assembled frame system 10 comprises a display plate 15 and frame plate 20 .
• FIGS. 1B and 1C illustrate different views of a non-limiting embodiment in which the frame system 10 optionally comprises an aligner 25 , a liner 30 , a back cover 35 , and/or one or more legs 40 .
• the frame system 10 optionally comprises an aligner 25 , a liner 30 , a back cover 35 , and/or one or more legs 40 .
• the display plate 15 can have any suitable characteristic that allows it to hold one or more display media and to connect the display media to the frame plate 20 .
• FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate different views of a non-limiting embodiment in which the display plate 15 comprises a first side 45 (or a display media attachment side) and a second side 50 (which optionally comprises an attachment for connecting the display plate to the frame plate, as hereinafter described).
• the display plate's first side and second side can have any suitable characteristic that allows the display plate to function as intended.
• FIGS. 2A and 2B show the display plate's first side 45 comprises a substantially flat display surface 55 that is capable of supporting a picture, a painting, a photograph, painting, drawing, or any other suitable display media (not shown in FIG. 2A or 2 B).
• FIGS. 2C and 2D show different views of an embodiment in which the display plate 15 comprises one or more raised edges 60 around its perimeter 62 that extend proximally away from the display surface 55 so the display surface 55 is recessed within the raised edges 60 .
• the raised edges may serve any suitable function, in some instances, the raised edges allow the display plate to be a shadow box in which any suitable medals, memorabilia, knick knacks, and/or other suitable display media can be placed.
• the display plate holds thicker display media than would be possible in some other embodiments in which the display plate does not comprise one or more raised edges.
• the raised edges can have any suitable characteristic.
• the raised edges 60 have any suitable thickness X (as shown in FIG. 2C ).
• the raised edges 60 are raised any suitable distance Y (as shown in FIG. 2C ) from the display surface 55 .
• the raised edges extend more than: about 2.5 millimeters (about 0.1 inches), about 0.5 centimeters (about 0.2 inches), or about 1 centimeter (about 0.4 inches) above the display surface.
• the raised edges extend less than: about 10 centimeters (about 4 inches), about 5 centimeters (about 2 inches), or about 2.5 centimeters (about 1 inch) above the display surface.
• the rails extend between about 0.64 centimeters (about 0.25 inches) and about 1.3 centimeters (about 0.5 inches) past the display surface.
• the second side 50 of the display plate 15 optionally comprises one or more display plate grips that are configured to allow a user to grip the display plate from behind.
• a display plate grip can help the user manipulate the display plate as a picture is attached to the first surface 45 of the display plate, as the display plate is inserted into (or removed from) the aligner, and/or for any other suitable purpose.
• the grip can have any suitable characteristic that allows it to operate as intended.
• the grip can be any suitable shape that allows a user to grab it and that still allows the display plate to be attached to the frame plate 20 (e.g., as described herein).
• the display plate grip can be any suitable shape (e.g., comprise a post, a knob, a projection, a cylindrical shaped object, a spherical object, and/or any other suitable object)
• FIGS. 2E and 3F shows some embodiments in which the display plate grip 61 comprises a tab extending from the second surface 50 of the display plate.
• the display plate grip can be disposed in any suitable location on the display plate, FIGS.
• FIG. 2E and 2F shows some embodiments in which grip 61 is centrally located on the second surface 50 of the display plate 15 .
• a central placement of the display plate grip can provide the user with more control over and/or the ability to easily balance the display plate when the user is holding the display plate grip.
• the display plate 15 optionally comprises a mechanism for securing a display medium to the display surface 55 .
• the display plate can comprise any suitable securing mechanism, including, without limitation, an adhesive, a clamping mechanism, and/or any other suitable means for attaching display media to the display plate.
• FIG. 2A shows an embodiment in which a sheet a double-sided-adhesive 65 is connected to the display surface (as illustrated by arrows 66 ) to secure a display medium 70 to the display plate 15 .
• the adhesive can be disposed in any suitable location on the first site (e.g., across the entire first side, in patches on the first side, along a perimeter of the first side, etc.). In some embodiments, however, the adhesive material is positioned on the first side such that the adhesive is disposed some distance in from at least one perimeter of the display plate. In this manner a user can contact and align a picture (or other form of media) against of the portion of the first side that is free from adhesive and then (once the media is properly aligned), the user can fully contact the media against the first side of the display plate to attach the media to the display plate via the adhesive. Accordingly, where the display plate lacks adhesive next to at least one perimeter of the plate's first side, a user can easily avoid crinkling the media and misaligning the media on the display plate.
• the adhesive 65 on the display plate 15 does not extend all the way to at least one perimeter of the display plate's first surface 45
• the adhesive can be disposed any suitable distance away from the display plate's perimeter (e.g., between about 0.1 mm and about 12 cm, or any suitable distance there between). Indeed, in some embodiments, the adhesive begins between about 3 mm and about 6 mm from each perimeter of the display plate's first side.
• FIG. 2A shows an embodiment in which the adhesive 65 extends to at least two perimeters of the display plate 15
• FIG. 2G shows an embodiment in which the adhesive 65 falls short of extending to all of the perimeters of the display plate's first surface 45 .
• the frame plate 20 can comprise any suitable component that allows its outermost perimeter to extend past and form a border around at least a portion of the display plate's perimeter 62 .
• FIG. 1A shows the frame plate's outermost perimeter 110 is larger than the display plate's perimeter 62 .
• FIGS. 3A and 3B show different views of an embodiment in which the frame plate 20 comprises a front side 75 and a back side 80 .
• At least a portion of the frame plate 20 optionally extends proximally past the frame plate's front side 75 to create a shadow box presentation around the display plate 15 when the display plate is connected to the frame plate. While any suitable portion of the frame plate can be raised proximally past the frame plate's front side 75 , FIGS. 3A and 3B show that, in some non-limiting embodiments, the frame plate is raised at a plurality of perimeters 85 .
• the raised perimeters can have any suitable characteristic.
• the raised perimeters are raised any suitable or desired height H (as shown in FIG. 3B ) above the frame plate's front side 75 .
• the raised perimeters 85 have any suitable thickness T (as illustrated in FIG. 3B ).
• the proximal end 88 of the raised perimeters has any suitable shape, including, but not limited to a square (as shown in FIG. 3B ), a triangular, stepped, rounded, irregular, or any other suitable shape that decorates the frame plate.
• the back side 80 of the frame plate 20 comprises one or more receptacles for receiving a connector that is capable of connecting the frame plate to a supporting object.
• the term supporting object may refer to any suitable object that is capable of holding the frame system.
• suitable supporting objects include a wall (e.g., a wall comprising a fabric surface, a gypsum board (such as sheet rock), a cork board, etc.), a metal object (e.g., a refrigerator, a file cabinet, a shelf system, etc.), the back cover, and so forth.
• the term connector may refer to any suitable connecting mechanism that is capable of connecting the frame plate to a supporting object.
• Non-limiting examples of suitable connectors comprise one or more push-pins, pieces of hook-and-loop fastener, magnets, adhesives, slots for fasteners (e.g., nails, screws, etc.), and any other suitable component that can attach the frame system to a supporting object.
• FIGS. 3B and 3C show different views of an embodiment in which frame plate's back side 80 comprises a plurality of push-pin receptacles 90 that are each sized and shaped to receive the handle 95 of a push-pin 100 .
• the frame plate With push-pins disposed on the frame plate's back side, the frame plate can be connected to a supporting object by placing the frame in a desired position on a supporting object (e.g., a gypsum wall) and forcing the push-pins' point into the supporting object.
• a supporting object e.g., a gypsum wall
• the back side 80 can comprise any suitable number of push-pin receptacles, including, without limitation, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or more.
• FIG. 3D shows a non-limiting embodiment in which the frame plate 20 comprises 4 push-pin receptacles 90 (as illustrated by the dashed lines).
• a push-pin 100 can be anchored within each receptacle in any suitable manner, including, without limitation through the use of an adhesive or a frictional engagement.
• FIG. 3E shows that an adhesive, such as contact paper 65 , is disposed in the receptacle 90 , between an inner surface of the receptacle and an end of the push pin's handle 95 .
• the frame plate's back side comprises one or more indentations 103 for one or more connectors (e.g., hook-and-loop fasteners, double-sided adhesives, magnets, etc.).
• a connector can be placed in the indentation and the frame plate can be connected to a suitable supporting unit by simply placing the frame plate on the supporting object.
• the indentations 103 comprises any suitable surface on the frame plate's back side 80 that is disposed proximally enough from the distal-most end 105 (shown in FIG. 3C ) of the frame plate's outermost perimeter 110 to allow the back cover (discussed below) to be connected to the frame plate's back side while the connector is disposed in the indentation.
• FIG. 3C the distal-most end 105
• 3C illustrates an embodiment in which in which a connector 111 (e.g., a magnetic strip, a strip of hook-and-loop fastener, etc.) can be disposed on a distal surface 112 of an indentation 103 the frame plate 20 , wherein the distance I between the distal surface 112 and the distal most end 105 of the frame plate's outermost perimeter 110 is substantially equal to the thickness of the connector 111 .
• a connector 111 e.g., a magnetic strip, a strip of hook-and-loop fastener, etc.
• the display plate 15 and the frame plate 20 can be connected to each other in any suitable manner that allows the two components to be selectively attached to and disconnected from each other. Indeed, in some non-limiting embodiments, the display plate and the frame plate are connected to each other through the use of one or more attachments, such as one or more frictional engagements, adhesives, clamping mechanisms, and/or any other suitable component that allows the display plate to selectively attach to and detach from the frame plate.
• one or more attachments such as one or more frictional engagements, adhesives, clamping mechanisms, and/or any other suitable component that allows the display plate to selectively attach to and detach from the frame plate.
• the frame system 10 can comprise any suitable frictional engagement.
• suitable frictional engagements include, but are not limited to, a clip, a tongue and groove attachment, and any other suitable component that is capable of frictionally holding the frame plate to the display plate.
• the display plate 15 selectively attaches to and detaches from the frame plate 20 through the use of one or more clips.
• the clip can be disposed on either component.
• FIG. 3C shows the clip 115 extends from the display plate's second side 50 .
• FIG. 3D shows that, in some embodiments, the frame plate 20 defines an opening 120 that is shaped and sized to receive the clip 115 .
• the frame and display plates can be connected together with any suitable number of clips, including, without limitation, 1, 2, 3, 4, or more. In some presently preferred embodiments, however, the plates are connected with 2 clips.
• each clip 115 can comprise any suitable characteristic that allows it fulfill its intended purpose.
• FIG. 4A illustrates an embodiment in which the clip 115 comprises a first tapered arm 125 and a second tapered arm 130 , wherein each arm comprises a recess 135 and 140 .
• the distance D between a first ridge 145 on the first arm 125 and a second ridge 150 on the second arm 130 is greater than the corresponding width W in the opening 120 in the frame plate 20 (see FIG. 3D ).
• FIG. 3D illustrates an embodiment in which the clip 115 comprises a first tapered arm 125 and a second tapered arm 130 , wherein each arm comprises a recess 135 and 140 .
• FIG. 4A shows the width W ⁇ of the distal end 152 of the clip's arms is slightly smaller than the width W of the opening 120 in the frame plate 20 (see FIG. 3D ). Accordingly, when the clip's first aim 125 and second 130 arm are forced into the opening 120 so that the first 145 ridge and second 150 ridge move past the opening 120 , the clip 115 becomes selectively locked to the frame plate 20 . At this point, to remove the display plate from the frame plate, the first and second arms are simply squeezed together to allow the clip to be removed from the opening.
• FIGS. 4B-4C show that, in some embodiments, the clip 115 comprises a single arm with a barb 116 .
• the clip can be removed in any suitable manner, including, without limitation, by applying pressure to the clip to move the barb and allow the barb to slide past the corresponding catch (e.g., on the frame plate 20 ).
• FIGS. 4D-4G a non-limiting example of such is illustrated in FIGS. 4D-4G .
• the frame plate (or another suitable component) comprises one or more frame plate tabs. While such tabs can serve any suitable purpose, in some embodiments, the tab limits movement of a corresponding clip and, thereby, helps prevent the clip from being pushed too far and being broken.
• the frame plate tabs provide a surface that can be used to support a user's digit (e.g., thumb or finger) such that the user can pinch the clip 115 (e.g., a clip comprising a single arm) towards the frame plate tab to release the clip from the frame plate.
• FIGS. 4H-4I illustrate some non-limiting embodiments of such a frame plate tab 118 .
• FIGS. 4J-4K illustrate some embodiments for using a frame plate tab to release a clip 115 .
• the frame system 10 comprises one or more spacers to maintain a space between the display plate's second side 50 and the frame plate's front side 75 .
• the spacer can provide the frame system with a 3-dimensional appearance in which the display plate appears to float away from the frame plate.
• the frame system 10 can comprise any suitable number of spacers, including, but not limited to, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more. Indeed, in some presently preferred embodiments, the frame system comprises 2 spacers to stabilize and separate the display plate from the frame plate.
• the spacers can be disposed on any suitable component that allows the spacers to fulfill their intended purpose.
• FIG. 4A shows that a spacer 155 is disposed on the clip 115 .
• FIG. 4A shows an embodiment in which the spacer 155 comprises a shoulder 160 that has width W+ that is larger than the width W of the opening 120 in the frame plate 20 (as shown in FIG. 3D ) and, thereby, prevents the clip 115 from being inserted into the frame plate 20 past the shoulder 160 .
• the spacer can maintain any suitable distance between the frame plate's front side 75 and the display plate's second side 50 . Indeed, in some non-limiting embodiments, the spacer maintains a space that is more than about 5 millimeters (about 0.2 inches), about 1 centimeters (about 0.4 inches), about 2 centimeters (about 0.8 inches), or larger. Similarly, in some non-limiting embodiments, the spacer maintains a space that is less than about 6 centimeters (about 2.4 inches), about 4 centimeters (about 1.6 inches), about 2 centimeters (about 0.8 inches), or less.
• the frame system 10 also comprises one or more alignment members that extend between the display plate 15 and the frame plate 20 .
• FIG. 3C shows a non-limiting embodiment in which at least one alignment member 165 extends from the display plate's second side 50 .
• the alignment members can serve any suitable purpose, including helping to stabilize the display plate on the frame plate. Indeed, the use of one or more alignment members can prevent the display plate from wobbling on the frame plate, while reducing the number of clips needed to stabilize the display plate on the frame plate. For instance, instead, of needing 2, 3, 4, or more clips to stabilize the display plate on the frame plate, the frame system can use 1, 2, 3, 4, or more alignment members to stabilize the system. Indeed, where the display plate 15 comprises 2 alignment members 165 and 2 clips 115 , the display plate can be securely aligned with the frame plate while a user can easily separate the two plates by pinching the two clips at the same time.
• each alignment member comprises a pin, a peg, an L-shaped shaft, or any other suitable shape.
• FIG. 5 illustrates a non-limiting embodiment in which the alignment member 165 comprises an L-shaped shaft, or a shaft that fits in an L-shaped aperture 170 in the frame plate 20 (as shown in FIG. 3D ).
• FIG. 5 shows the alignment member 165 also comprises a spacer 155 .
• the frame system 10 optionally comprises an aligner 25 .
• the aligner may have any suitable characteristic that allows a user to use the aligner to place a display medium on the display plate in a desired position.
• the aligner has a flat inner surface (on which the medium can be placed) and one or more raised sides, against which the medium can be aligned.
• the inner dimensions of the flat inner surface 168 are slightly larger than the perimeter 62 of the display plate 15 (as shown in FIG. 2D ). Accordingly, a display medium can be sandwiched between the aligner and the display plate.
• FIG. 6A shows an embodiment in which the aligner 25 comprises a transparent lens 170 with four raised sides 175 .
• the medium (not shown) can be placed on the lens' inner surface 168 (shown in FIG. 6B ) so that the side of the medium that is meant to be displayed faces out through the transparent lens 170 .
• the aligner 25 can be used as a jig to guide the display medium into proper alignment with the display plate. Once the display medium is secured to the display plate, the medium can be displayed on the frame system, with or without the aligner, according to the user's desires. For instance, where the aligner is used over the display plate (as a flat plate or as a shadow box), the aligner can protect the display media on or in the display plate. In contrast, in some cases, after the aligner is used to align media on the display plate, the aligner is removed from the display plate and the media is displayed without a protective cover.
• the frame system 10 comprises a liner 30 that can be disposed between the display plate's second side 50 and the frame plate's front side 75 .
• the liner can be used for any suitable purpose, including improving the aesthetics of the frame system.
• the frame system can comprise one or more liners having any suitable desired color, texture, size, mattes, etc. to create a greater appearance of depth, a desired color scheme, and/or a desired accent to the total presentation.
• the frame system comprises a single liner that has virtually any desired characteristic.
• FIGS. 7A-7D show different views of one non-limiting embodiment in which the liner 30 has an outer perimeter 179 that is larger than the display plate's outer perimeter 62 (shown in FIG. 1A ). In another non-limiting embodiment, the liner 30 has an inner perimeter 181 that is smaller than the display plate's outer perimeter 62 .
• the frame system 10 also comprises a back cover 40 .
• the back cover can serve a variety of purposes, in some instances, the back cover connects to the frame plate's back side so as to cover the frame plate's back side and to allow the frame system to be freestanding or to be attached to a supporting object.
• the back cover 35 can have any suitable characteristic. Indeed, in one non-limiting embodiment (which is not illustrated), the back cover comprises one or more holes, slots, grooves, hooks, loops, or other holders that are sized and shaped to catch a fastener (such as a nail, a screw, a hook, or any other suitable fastener) that is extending from a supporting object (such as a wall).
• the holder comprises a conventional hole having a plurality of diameters, wherein a first diameter of the hole is sized to allow a fastener's head to pass there through, and wherein a second diameter is sized to prevent the fastener's head from passing through that portion of the hole.
• FIG. 3A and 3D show the frame plate 20 comprises a “V” shaped aperture 171 having a half-rounded top.
• the user hanging the frame system 10 can locate a fastener (such as a nail) and then allow the frame system to fall into place with respect to the fastener.
• FIGS. 8A-8C show the back cover 35 comprises a proximal face 180 that is sized and shaped to cover the frame plate's back side 80 , a lip 182 that is configured to extend proximally into the frame plate, one or more frame plate fasteners (e.g., process 185 ) for connecting the back cover 35 to the frame plate 20 , and/or one or more legs 40 for supporting the frame system 10 .
• a proximal face 180 that is sized and shaped to cover the frame plate's back side 80
• a lip 182 that is configured to extend proximally into the frame plate
• one or more frame plate fasteners e.g., process 185
• the frame plate fasteners can comprise any suitable component that allows the back cover to be connected to the frame plate 20 .
• suitable frame plate fasteners include one or more processes, clips, adhesives, mechanical fasteners (e.g., hook-and-loop fasteners), frictional engagements, and/or any other suitable component.
• FIG. 8A shows the frame plate fastener comprises at least one process 185 that extends proximally from the proximal surface 180 of the back cover 35 , and which is sized and shaped to be received within a corresponding push-pin receptacle 90 on the frame cover 90 (shown in FIG. 3C ).
• the frame plate fastener can be connected to the frame plate in any suitable manner, including, but not limited to, through the use of a frictional engagement that selectively receives and releases the frame plate fastener from the receptacle, an adhesive in the receptacle, and/or any other suitable component that is capable of maintaining the process within the receptacle.
• FIG. 3C shows the process 185 is retained within the receptacle 90 through the use of an adhesive, such as a contact paper 65 .
• the back cover 35 comprises one or more legs 40 .
• the legs allow the frame system to support itself on a flat object, such as a table, a shelf, a cabinet, or any other structure suitable of allowing the frame system to stand thereon.
• each leg can have any suitable characteristic.
• each leg can have any suitable shape.
• each leg can connect to a distal face 190 of the back cover in any suitable manner, including, without limitation, by being integrally formed with the back cover, by being snapped into slots (not shown) in the back cover 35 , by being chemically bonded to the back cover, and/or in any other suitable manner.
• a single leg is integrally formed with and connected to the back cover 35 , as illustrated in FIGS. 8A and 8B .
• the frame system 10 can comprise any other suitable component or characteristic.
• the frame system optionally comprises an additional border that can be used to further decorate and accessorize the frame system for a desired application. While such a border can be disposed in any suitable location, FIG. 9A shows a non-limiting embodiment in which the additional border 195 is disposed around the outermost perimeter 110 of the frame plate 20 .
• the border can be connected the frame system in any suitable manner.
• the additional border can connect to the frame plate through one or more frictional engagements, adhesives, and/or any other suitable component.
• the border 195 may be connected through the use of any suitable frictional engagement.
• FIG. 9B shows that, in one non-limiting embodiment, the border 195 comprises a projection 200 that frictionally mates with a groove 205 in the frame plate 20 .
• the frame system 10 is optionally adapted to be selectively connected to and disconnected from one or more additional frame systems to form a collage of frame systems. In this manner, a plurality of frame systems can be displayed as one cohesive presentation.
• FIG. 9C illustrates an embodiment in which the mechanical clamp comprises a spring clip 210 that is capable of biasing components from 2 different frame systems together. Specifically, FIG. 9C shows that where 2 frame systems (not shown) each comprise an additional border 195 , the borders 195 are connected together through the use of a spring clip 210 that holds the borders 195 in frictional contact with each other.
• the frame system 10 comprises one or more separating bars.
• the bars may be used to split the display surface 55 of the display plate into a plurality of sections. In this manner, the display plate can be adapted to hold a plurality of media, of one or more sizes.
• the frame system comprises one or more bars
• the bars can be used to create a montage on the display plate. Accordingly, the frame can be further be customized for specific media, applications, users, etc. For instance, the bars can be used to separate the display surface into 2 frames, 3 frames, 4 frames, etc., that are configured for specific media.
• the bars can have any characteristic suitable for use with the frame system.
• the bars can be about the length of the display plate and/or the frame plate.
• the bars and/or the frame may be adapted to be snapped together and/or to one or more components of the frame system for fast and easy assembly.
• FIG. 10 illustrates a non-limiting embodiment in which the bar 215 comprises a plurality of indentations 220 that are sized and shaped to frictionally engage the separating bar 215 to the perimeter 62 of the display plate 20 (not shown in FIG. 10 ).
• the described frame system 10 may be made of any suitable material, including, but not limited to, a plastic, a wood, a metal, a ceramic, a polymer, a composite, and combinations thereof. However, in some preferred embodiments, the frame system is fabricated from a plastic or a polymer.
• the frame system can also be made in any suitable manner
• suitable methods for forming the various components of the frame system include, but are not limited to, extruding, cutting, bending, molding, etching, bonding, fastening, joining, or otherwise shaping the various components.
• the various components of the frame system can also have any desired color. Moreover, the various components of the frame system can be interchanged with components of various colors. In this manner, the frame system's color scheme can easily be customized and personalized by the user.
• the frame system 10 may be virtually any desired size. Indeed, in some non-limiting embodiments, the frame system's length and/or width is selected from a measurement that is greater than: about 2 centimeters (about 0.8 inches), about 5 centimeters (about 2 inches), or about 10 centimeters (about 4 inches). Similarly, in some non-limiting embodiments, the frame system's length and/or width is selected from a measurement that is less than: about 1.2 meters (about 4 feet), 61 centimeters (about 2 feet), or about 30 centimeters (about 1 foot).
• the various components of the frame system may also be any suitable shape, including, but not limited to, square, rectangular, circular, elliptical, polygonal, irregular, etc.
• FIG. 1A shows the display surface 55 of the display plate 15 and the outermost perimeter 110 of the frame plate 20 are each substantially rectangular. While FIG. 1A illustrates an embodiment where the display surface 55 and the outermost perimeter 110 of the frame plate 20 are both substantially rectangular, the two need not be similar in shape.
• the outermost perimeter 110 of the frame plate 20 can be substantially square while the display surface 55 of the display plate 15 may be substantially circular.
• the described frame system may offer several benefits and advantages.
• the frame system is accessorizable, it can easily be configured and reconfigured multiple times.
• the frame system can be personalized and customized for a variety of media, users, applications, etc.
• some components of the frame system can be selectively connected to and disconnected from each other through the use of one or more frictional engagements (e.g., clip 115 ) in some cases, the frame system is able to be accessorized and configured without the use of tools.
• the frame system requires no tools for assembly and/or mounting.
• the frame system may simply require a level to level the frame system, or an adhesive to permanently secure the components in place, if desired.
• the present application discusses systems and methods for providing an accessorizable frame system having a plurality of pieces that selectively connect to and disconnect from each other. Because certain pieces in the frame system can easily be connected to and disconnected from each other, the frame system is easily assembled, customized, and otherwise used to provide an aesthetically pleasing display.

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Abstract

Description

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Cited By (8)

Citations (10)

• 2013
  • 2013-12-02 US US14/094,237 patent/US20140144055A1/en not_active Abandoned

Patent Citations (10)

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