Sports commemorator for displaying a sports related object and picture

Abstract

A sports commemorator includes a support with a forward portion having an open interior for displaying a picture (e.g., a photograph) on a layer and an object superimposed with a cover. The picture and the object are desirably related to sports. A first transparent portion of the cover serves to buttress the layer. A second transparent portion of the cover serves to receive the object. Forward and rearward interfaces serve to secure the cover and the layer for displaying the picture and the object in the open interior. In one example, the support can include a frame and/or a backing, and the forward and/or rearward interfaces can comprise a stop and/or a fastener. The forward and/or rearward interfaces can be formed integrally with the support. The cover can comprise a transparent member having an expanse with a hollow protuberance. A section of the expanse can be formed substantially flat, for buttressing the layer. The hollow protuberance preferably has sufficient space to substantially cup the object. The picture can be superimposed and/or associated visually with the object.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] This invention relates, generally, to sports memorabilia and, more particularly, to sports commemorators.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] When an event is held, those involved or interested usually appreciate it if memorabilia is available. For example, such an event may have a social, political, or business character. Also, persons interested in the memorabilia may include, for instance, sponsors, patrons, participants, attendees, fans, agents, representatives or collectors. Furthermore, some enterprises are geared toward providing such memorabilia, and they wish to provide products which are attractive and desirable.

[0003] A way to make memorabilia attractive and desirable is to closely connect the memorabilia with one or more special aspects of the event. For example, memorabilia may be made to include physical objects or pictures for highlighting or celebrating one or more particular occasions, locations, activities, sponsors or participants.

[0004] One known configuration for a sportsman's display and gift article mounts a light weight, imitation golf ball atop a golf tee. The golf tee and imitation golf ball are supported without touching a surface, by a mounting which is capable of supporting extremely light weight. The surface has space located alongside the imitation golf ball and the golf tee, for inscriptive material or a calendar. Such a design is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,473,247 to La Favor et al. (entitled “Display Device for Sportsmen” and issued Oct. 21, 1969). A shortcoming of this design is the limitation of the mounting to supporting extremely light weight. Another shortcoming is the lack of cover for the displayed object and material. A further shortcoming is the separation between the displayed object and material.

[0005] There is a need for further improvements in connection with commemorators relating to sports.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] In one aspect of the invention, a sports commemorator includes a cover, and a support with forward and rearward portions. The forward portion has an open interior for displaying a picture on a layer and an object superimposed with the cover. The picture and the object are related to a sport. The cover is formed with first and second transparent portions with the first transparent portion serving to buttress the layer and the second transparent portion serving to receive the object. A forward interface is provided between the forward portion and a peripheral portion of the cover, and a rearward interface between the layer and the rearward portion, wherein the forward and rearward interfaces serve to secure the cover and the layer for displaying the picture and the object in the open interior.

[0007] In another aspect of the invention, a sports commemorator includes a transparent member, and a support formed with forward and rearward portions. The forward portion has an open interior for displaying a picture on a layer and an object superimposed with the transparent member. The picture and the object are related to a sport. The transparent member is formed with an expanse including a hollow protuberance in which a section of the expanse serving to buttress the layer and the hollow protuberance serving to receive the object. A forward interface is provided between the forward portion and a peripheral portion of the transparent member. A rearward interface is provided between the layer and the rearward portion. The forward and rearward interfaces serve to secure the transparent member and the layer for displaying the picture and the object in the open interior.

[0008] In another aspect of the invention, a method is provided for displaying a sports related object and picture. The method includes selecting a support having an open interior, selecting a cover having a transparent expanse with a transparent chamber, superimposing the transparent chamber over the object in the open interior, superimposing the transparent expanse over the picture on a layer in the open interior, and securing the object and the layer in the open interior, whereby the object and the picture are displayed.

[0009] The picture and object are desirably related to at least one of motor sports, fishing, baseball, basketball, football, hockey, soccer, tennis, or skiing. For example, the object may be a miniature racing car, or a fishing lure.

[0010] The present invention advantageously provides a sports commemorator which can display a sports related object and picture. Furthermore, the sports commemorator can also closely associate the object with the picture.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] The subject matter which is regarded as the invention is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the claims at the conclusion of the specification. The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the invention will be readily understood from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

[0012] FIG. 1 is a sectional, side view of one example of an actual golf ball held over a picture in a golf commemorator incorporating and using the capabilities of the present invention, illustrating a prop in an open position;

[0013] FIG. 2 is a reduced, plan view of the golf commemorator of FIG. 1, illustrating the picture as having a portrait orientation;

[0014] FIG. 3 is an end representation of the golf commemorator of FIG. 2, illustrating the prop in a closed position;

[0015] FIG. 4 is a sectional, side view of another example of an object such as a miniature racing car held over a picture such as a race track in a sports commemorator according to the present invention and illustrating a prop in an open position;

[0016] FIG. 5 is a reduced, front elevational view of the sports commemorator of FIG. 4, best illustrating the picture;

[0017] FIG. 6 is a top view of the sports commemorator of FIG. 2, illustrating the prop in a closed position; and

[0018] FIG. 7 is a front elevational view of another embodiment of a sports commemorator according to the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] In accordance with the principles of the present invention, a sports commemorator is provided in which a cover includes flat and curved transparent surfaces for displaying a related sports object and picture.

[0020] An example of a sports commemorator incorporating and using the novel features of the present invention is depicted in FIG. 1 and described in detail herein.

[0021] In this exemplary embodiment, a golf commemorator 100 includes support 102 which receives cover 104. The support is further described herein. In one example, the cover includes chamber 106 which receives actual golf ball 108. That is, the golf ball has been or could be used in an actual round of golf, for instance, played in accordance with the standards of the Professional Golfers' Association (“PGA”) and/or the United States Golf Association (“USGA”). Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the golf ball is preferably superimposed over layer 110 having picture 111 thereon, where the golf ball and picture are located between or held by the cover and support. Preferably, the chamber serves to cup the golf ball. In one embodiment, the chamber is shaped and/or sized to just fit over the golf ball, and the remainder of the cover is formed flat, to give an impression, recollection, or feel to the viewer thereof of having access to the golf ball with the view and/or golf ball present or closely connected with a scene shown in the picture. In a further example, the chamber might be shaped and/or sized to provide room or space sufficient to just allow the golf ball to minimally contact the layer, while the remainder of the golf ball is disposed in the chamber forward of and outwardly from the picture, toward a viewer of the golf commemorator.

[0022] Referring to FIG. 1, golf ball 108 may comprise a golf ball which satisfies the standards of, for instance, the Professional Golfers' Association and/or the United States Golf Association. In one aspect, the golf ball may comprise a commercially available or customized golf ball. In another aspect, the golf ball, picture 111, layer 110, cover 104 or support 102 may include inscription, marking, or writing thereon, thereabout, or therein.

[0023] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, cover 104 provides transparency for displaying golf ball 108 and picture 111. In one example, the cover may be clear. In another example, the cover may be transparent yet capable of providing, for example, optical modification(s). The cover may include, for instance, tinting such as for highlighting, introducing, and/or filtering color(s). In one embodiment, the cover might be formed with material(s) such as plastic and/or glass, and/or various natural and/or synthetic material(s). For instance, the cover may be molded from plastic to include a hollow protuberance serving as chamber 106. In one example, the cover has sufficient strength and/or durability to withstand clamping at its periphery by support 102, buttress layer 110, and continuously hold in the chamber weight of the actual golf ball.

[0024] For purposes of illustration, FIG. 2 depicts golf commemorator 100 as displaying picture 111 on layer 110 in a “portrait” orientation, where the picture itself is depicted as having a portrait orientation. In one example, a portrait mode orients graphics and/or character(s) along the longer of the two major axes of the picture and/or the golf commemorator. In another example, the picture on the layer may have a “landscape” orientation. For instance, a landscape mode may orient graphics and/or character(s) along the shorter of the two major axes of the picture and/or the golf commemorator.

[0025] As can be understood through examination of FIGS. 1 and 2, stand 300 may, in one example, enable and/or assist presentation of picture 111 in a portrait mode. In another example, the stand may be configured for presentation of the picture in a landscape mode. The stand is further described herein.

[0026] Referring to FIG. 2, picture 111 may comprise, for example, a photograph, illustration, print, drawing, inking, painting, design or rendition. Preferably, the picture is directed to a golf course or golf outing, and is further described herein. Referring to FIGS. 1 and 3, in one example, layer 110 may comprise paper, photosensitive surface, canvas, fabric, screen, silk, mesh or plate.

[0027] Again referring to FIG. 1, support 102 may include frame 202 and backing 204. For example, the frame might be formed with material(s) such as (e.g., stained, finished, and/or decorated) wood, plastic, and/or metal. In one example, a plurality of pieces may be connected together in order to form the frame.

[0028] For explanatory purposes, frame 202 and picture 111 on layer 110 are illustrated as rectangular. In accordance with principles of the present invention, these and other component(s) of golf commemorator 100, or item(s) used therewith, may have any appropriate shape(s). For instance, one or more of the frame and the picture on the layer may be elliptical.

[0029] In one aspect, referring to FIG. 1, frame 202 may form a solid periphery about an open interior such as (e.g., central) opening 206. The frame may be, in one example, configured so the size of the opening provides room or space to display picture 111 and golf ball 108, superimposed with cover 104. Furthermore, the frame may include, for instance, stop(s) 208 which may serve or cooperate in providing direct and/or indirect (e.g., mechanical) support for item(s) such as cover 104, the golf ball, layer 110, and/or the backing. In one embodiment, the stop(s) may be formed (e.g., integrally) with, machined in, or carved into the frame.

[0030] In one example, still referring to FIG. 1, cover 104 may be inserted into opening 206 from the rear, so a rim or periphery of the cover abuts stop(s) 208. Also, golf ball 108 may be inserted into chamber 106 of the cover. Layer 110 having picture 111 thereon may be positioned in back of the golf ball 108, and backing 204 may be positioned behind the layer. The stop(s) may serve to prevent, restrict, or limit forward movement of the cover by abutment therewith, thereby consequently also limiting forward movement of the golf ball, the layer, and the backing which may all be positioned behind the cover.

[0031] Furthermore, referring to FIG. 1, there may be provided direct and/or indirect (e.g., mechanical) support from the rear for item(s) such as cover 104, golf ball 108, layer 110, and/or backing 204. In one example, fastener(s) 210 may comprise a number of peripheral recesses or a continuous groove in frame 202, and (e.g., metal or hard plastic) tab(s) received therein. For instance, the tab(s) may be pivotally (e.g., with one or more pins) mounted at the rear of the backing, such as are commonly available for use with frames (e.g., for 8 in. by 10 in. photographs). In an alternative embodiment, the tab(s) might be (e.g., pivotally) connected to the frame. In embodiment, wedge(s) and/or shim(s) may be employed with or substitute for the tab(s). In one aspect, the fastener may provide or cooperate in providing direct and/or indirect rearward physical support to item(s) such as the cover, the golf ball, the layer and/or the backing.

[0032] For instance, following placement of cover 104 into opening 206, in abutment with stop(s) 208, and positioning into the opening of golf ball 108, layer 110, and backing 204 behind the cover, the tab(s) may be pivoted to secure the cover, the golf ball, the layer and the backing between fastener(s) 210 and stop(s) 208. That is, the fastener(s) and the stop(s) may maintain a clamping pressure among the cover, the golf ball, the layer and the backing so the same are secured in the opening for display of the golf ball and picture 111.

[0033] In one aspect, referring to FIG. 1, stop(s) 208 may serve as a forward interface between frame 202 and cover 104 by directly physically supporting the cover against forward movement past the stop(s), where the cover superimposes golf ball 108 and layer 110. Further, fastener(s) 210 and backing 204 may serve as a rearward interface between the layer and the frame by directly supporting the layer against rearward movement past the backing secured with fastener(s), where the layer is superimposed with the cover and the golf ball.

[0034] In one alternative embodiment, cover 104 might be formed (e.g., integrally) with frame 202. In another alternative embodiment, stop(s) 208 might be formed separately from the frame, and be mounted, fastened, or attached therein. In yet another alternative embodiment, layer 110 might be formed integrally with backing 204.

[0035] Again referring to FIG. 1, in one alternative embodiment, fastener(s) (not shown) such as fastener(s) 210 may be formed, provided, or positioned at, or substitute for, stop(s) 208, such as for providing or assisting in support of cover 104, golf ball 108, layer 110 and/or backing 204, for a forward interface. In another alternative embodiment, stop(s) (not shown) which face forward, rather than stop(s) 208 which are depicted for explanatory purposes as facing rearward, may be formed, provided, or positioned at, or substitute for, the fastener(s) 210, for providing or assisting in support of the cover, the golf ball, the layer and/or the backing, for a rearward interface. For instance, golf commemorator 100 may be configured so the backing is positioned against a stop, the layer positioned thereover, and the cover superimposing the golf ball positioned thereon, where a fastener serves to secure the cover to the frame. In yet another alternative embodiment, the backing might be formed (e.g., integrally) with the frame.

[0036] Referring to FIG. 1, prop (e.g., collapsible, swingable, or enfoldable stand, arm, or brace) 300 may be connected (e.g., hinged) to backing 204, such as for enabling desired presentation or viewing of golf commemorator 100 (e.g., with a portrait or landscape orientation) on a horizontal surface, such as may be provided with a shelf, cabinet, mantel, case or desk. FIG. 1 depicts the prop in an open position, while FIG. 3 depicts the prop in a closed position. In another example, the backing and/or frame 202 might include a hinge, wire, and/or loop (not shown), such as for hanging of the golf commemorator (e.g., with a portrait or landscape orientation) on a vertical surface, such as a wall or door. Optionally, a given golf commemorator 100 might omit or allow removal of the prop 300, such as where the golf commemorator will be hung on a wall. For instance, the backing and/or prop might be of, or resemble, usual type(s) thereof used, or usable, with a frame for a photograph.

[0037] For illustrative purposes, FIG. 2 depicts picture 111 on layer 110 (FIGS. 1 and 3) as a partial perspective view (e.g., a photograph) of a green on a golf course. In one aspect, referring to FIG. 2, golf commemorator 100 may serve to associate actual golf ball 108 and picture 111, such as in suggesting flight, location, or address of the golf ball relative to a golf fairway, golf lie, golf green, golf tee box, golf club, country club or person(s). In another aspect, the golf commemorator may serve as a remembrance of a corporate or charity tournament, or a special golf getaway. Furthermore, the golf commemorator might be used as a customer appreciation gift. Moreover, the golf commemorator may be used by collectors. In one example, the golf ball placed in the golf commemorator may be the very golf ball used by a special person, such as the person who receives, gives, purchases or donates the golf commemorator, or a famous or notable person. In another example, the golf ball and/or picture may include special marking(s) or signature(s) thereon, and/or the picture may include special scene(s), object(s), or person(s), such as to commemorate occasion(s) (e.g., a hole-in-one or a noteworthy round of golf or event), celebrate person(s) (e.g., a professional or amateur athlete, a politician, entertainer, or business leader, or a friend or companion), or recall location(s) (e.g., a famous golf course or favorite, desired, or fantastic vacation destination).

[0038] Another example of a sports commemorator incorporating and using the novel features of the present invention is depicted in FIGS. 4-6 and described in detail herein.

[0039] In this exemplary embodiment, sports commemorator 400 includes support 402 which receives cover 404. The support is further described herein. In one example, the cover includes chamber 406 which receives an object 408 such as a miniature or toy racing car.

[0040] With reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, the object 408 is preferably superimposed over layer 410 having picture 411 thereon, where the object and picture are located between or held by the cover and support. Preferably, the chamber serves to surround and support the object. In one embodiment, the chamber is shaped and/or sized to just fit over the object, and the remainder of the cover is formed flat, to give an impression, recollection, or feel to the viewer thereof of having access to the object with the view and/or object present or closely connected with a scene shown in the picture, such as a scene of a race track. In a further example, the chamber might be shaped and/or sized to provide room or space sufficient to just allow the object to minimally contact the layer, while the remainder of the object is disposed in the chamber forward of and outwardly from the picture, toward a viewer of the sports commemorator.

[0041] Cover 404 provides transparency for displaying object 408 and picture 411. In one example, the cover may be clear. In another example, the cover may be transparent yet capable of providing, for example, optical modification(s). The cover may include, for instance, tinting such as for highlighting, introducing, and/or filtering color(s). In one embodiment, the cover might be formed with material(s) such as plastic and/or glass, and/or various natural and/or synthetic material(s). For instance, the cover may be molded from plastic to include a hollow protuberance serving as chamber 406. In one example, the cover has sufficient strength and/or durability to withstand clamping at its periphery by support 402, buttress layer 410, and continuously hold in the chamber weight of the object.

[0042] For purposes of illustration, FIG. 5 depicts sports commemorator 400 as displaying picture 411 on layer 410 in a “portrait” orientation, where the picture itself is depicted as having a portrait orientation. In one example, a portrait mode orients graphics and/or character(s) along the longer of the two major axes of the picture and/or the sports commemorator. In another example, the picture on the layer may have a “landscape” orientation. For instance, a landscape mode may orient graphics and/or character(s) along the shorter of the two major axes of the picture and/or the sports commemorator.

[0043] As can be understood through examination of FIGS. 4 and 5, stand 600 may, in one example, enable and/or assist presentation of picture 411 in a portrait mode. In another example, the stand may be configured for presentation of the picture in a landscape mode. The stand is further described herein.

[0044] With reference still to FIG. 5, picture 411 may comprise, for example, a photograph, illustration, print, drawing, inking, painting, design or rendition. Preferably, the picture is related to the object such as in this example, a race track, and is further described herein. Referring to FIGS. 4 and 6, in one example, layer 410 may comprise paper, photosensitive surface, canvas, fabric, screen, silk, mesh or plate.

[0045] Again referring to FIG. 4, support 402 may include frame 502 and backing 504. For example, the frame might be formed with material(s) such as (e.g., stained, finished, and/or decorated) wood, plastic, and/or metal. In one example, a plurality of pieces may be connected together in order to form the frame.

[0046] For explanatory purposes, frame 502 and picture 411 on layer 410 are illustrated as rectangular. In accordance with principles of the present invention, these and other component(s) of sports commemorator 400, or item(s) used therewith, may have any appropriate shape(s). For instance, one or more of the frame and the picture on the layer may be elliptical.

[0047] In one aspect, referring to FIG. 4, frame 502 may form a solid periphery about an open interior such as (e.g., central) opening 506. The frame may be, in one example, configured so the size of the opening provides room or space to display picture 411 and object 408, superimposed with cover 404. Furthermore, the frame may include, for instance, stop(s) 508 which may serve or cooperate in providing direct and/or indirect (e.g., mechanical) support for item(s) such as cover 404, the object, layer 410, and/or the backing. In one embodiment, the stop(s) may be formed (e.g., integrally) with, machined in, or carved into the frame.

[0048] In one example, still referring to FIG. 4, cover 404 may be inserted into opening 506 from the rear, so a rim or periphery of the cover abuts stop(s) 508. Also, object 408 may be inserted into chamber 406 of the cover. Layer 410 having picture 411 thereon may be positioned in back of the object 408, and backing 504 may be positioned behind the layer. The stop(s) may serve to prevent, restrict, or limit forward movement of the cover by abutment therewith, thereby consequently also limiting forward movement of the object, the layer, and the backing which may all be positioned behind the cover.

[0049] Furthermore, referring to FIG. 4, there may be provided direct and/or indirect (e.g., mechanical) support from the rear for item(s) such as cover 404, object 408, layer 410, and/or backing 504. In one example, fastener(s) 510 may comprise a number of peripheral recesses or a continuous groove in frame 502, and (e.g., metal or hard plastic) tab(s) received therein. For instance, the tab(s) may be pivotally (e.g., with one or more pins) mounted at the rear of the backing, such as are commonly available for use with frames (e.g., for 8 in. by 10 in. photographs). In an alternative embodiment, the tab(s) might be (e.g., pivotally) connected to the frame. In embodiment, wedge(s) and/or shim(s) may be employed with or substitute for the tab(s). In one aspect, the fastener may provide or cooperate in providing direct and/or indirect rearward physical support to item(s) such as the cover, the object, the layer and/or the backing.

[0050] For instance, following placement of cover 404 into opening 506, in abutment with stop(s) 508, and positioning into the opening of object 408, layer 410, and backing 504 behind the cover, the tab(s) may be pivoted to secure the cover, the object, the layer and the backing between fastener(s) 510 and stop(s) 508. That is, the fastener(s) and the stop(s) may maintain a clamping pressure among the cover, the object, the layer and the backing so the same are secured in the opening for display of the object and picture 411.

[0051] In one aspect, referring to FIG. 4, stop(s) 508 may serve as a forward interface between frame 502 and cover 404 by directly physically supporting the cover against forward movement past the stop(s), where the cover superimposes object 408 and layer 410. Further, fastener(s) 510 and backing 504 may serve as a rearward interface between the layer and the frame by directly supporting the layer against rearward movement past the backing secured with fastener(s), where the layer is superimposed with the cover and the object.

[0052] In one alternative embodiment, cover 404 might be formed (e.g., integrally) with frame 502. In another alternative embodiment, stop(s) 508 might be formed separately from the frame, and be mounted, fastened, or attached therein. In yet another alternative embodiment, layer 410 might be formed integrally with backing 504.

[0053] Again referring to FIG. 4, in one alternative embodiment, fastener(s) (not shown) such as fastener(s) 510 may be formed, provided, or positioned at, or substitute for, stop(s) 508, such as for providing or assisting in support of cover 404, object 408, layer 410 and/or backing 504, for a forward interface. In another alternative embodiment, stop(s) (not shown) which face forward, rather than stop(s) 508 which are depicted for explanatory purposes as facing rearward, may be formed, provided, or positioned at, or substitute for, the fastener(s) 510, for providing or assisting in support of the cover, the object, the layer and/or the backing, for a rearward interface. For instance, sports commemorator 400 may be configured so the backing is positioned against a stop, the layer positioned thereover, and the cover superimposing the object positioned thereon, where a fastener serves to secure the cover to the frame. In yet another alternative embodiment, the backing might be formed (e.g., integrally) with the frame.

[0054] Still referring to FIG. 4, prop (e.g., collapsible, swingable, or enfoldable stand, arm, or brace) 600 may be connected (e.g., hinged) to backing 504, such as for enabling desired presentation or viewing of sports commemorator 400 (e.g., with a portrait or landscape orientation) on a horizontal surface, such as may be provided with a shelf, cabinet, mantel, case or desk. FIG. 4 depicts the prop in an open position, while FIG. 6 depicts the prop in a closed position. In another example, the backing and/or frame 502 might include a hinge, wire, and/or loop (not shown), such as for hanging of the sports commemorator (e.g., with a portrait or landscape orientation) on a vertical surface, such as a wall or door. Optionally, a given sports commemorator 400 might omit or allow removal of the prop 600, such as where the sports commemorator will be hung on a wall. For instance, the backing and/or prop might be of, or resemble, usual type(s) thereof used, or usable, with a frame for a photograph.

[0055] For illustrative purposes, FIG. 5 depicts picture 411 on layer 410 (FIGS. 4 and 6) as a partial perspective view (e.g., a photograph) of a race track. In one aspect, referring to FIG. 5, sports commemorator 400 may serve to associate object 408 and picture 411, such as in suggesting the miniature racing car is on the race track. Alternatively, the object may be a miniature racing car superposed on a closeup photograph of the driver after winning a race.

[0056] FIG. 7 illustrates another embodiment of a sports commemorator 700 for displaying a sports related picture and object. In this embodiment, an object 708 includes a fishing lure and a picture 711 includes an image of a person, e.g., a person holding a fish. Desirably, a customer can insert his/her own picture of a fish that was caught and insert the actual fishing lure used to catch the fish into sports commemorator 700.

[0057] Other sports commemorators according to the present invention may include the transparent portion, hollow protuberance, or transparent chamber sized and configured to receive an object related to other sports such as baseball, basketball, football, hockey, soccer, tennis, skiing, wrestling, etc. For example, such an object may include sport related objects such as a miniature baseball helmet, miniature baseball bat, miniature basketball, miniature football, miniature football helmet, miniature hockey stick, miniature of an actual size hockey puck, miniature soccer ball, miniature tennis racket, miniature or an actual tennis ball, miniature skies, trading cards, action figures, etc.

[0058] In another aspect, the sports commemorator may serve as a remembrance of a corporate or charity sports event or tournament. Furthermore, the sports commemorator might be used as a customer appreciation gift. Moreover, the sports commemorator may be used by collectors. In one example, the object placed in the sports commemorator may be an object used by a special person, such as the person who receives, gives, purchases or donates the sports commemorator, or a famous or notable person. In another example, the object and/or picture may include special marking(s) or signature(s) thereon, and/or the picture may include a special scene(s), object(s), or person(s), such as to commemorate occasion(s) (e.g., motor sport events such as Indianapolis 500 or Daytona 500), celebrate person(s) (e.g., a professional or amateur athlete, a friend or companion), or recall location(s) (e.g., race tracks, stadiums, or fishing locations).

[0059] While part(s) of the description herein, for explanatory purposes, may imply or indicate certain exemplary direction(s), such direction(s) may be considered relative. Design choice(s) allow accommodation(s) of any orientation(s) for any sports commemorator(s) in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

[0060] Although preferred embodiments have been depicted and described in detail herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the relevant art that various modifications, additions, substitutions and the like can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention and these are therefore considered to be within the scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.

Claims

1. A sports commemorator comprising:

a cover;

a support formed with forward and rearward portions;

said forward portion having an open interior for displaying a picture on a layer and an object superimposed with said cover, said picture and said object being related to a sport;

said cover formed with first and second transparent portions, said first transparent portion serving to buttress said layer, said second transparent portion serving to receive said object;

a forward interface between said forward portion and a peripheral portion of said cover; and

a rearward interface between said layer and said rearward portion, wherein said forward and rearward interfaces serve to secure said cover and said layer for displaying said picture and said object in said open interior.

2. The commemorator of claim 1 wherein said second transparent portion serving to receive said object comprising a miniature racing car.

3. The commemorator of claim 1 wherein said second transparent portion serving to receive said object comprising a fishing lure.

4. The commemorator of claim 1 wherein said second transparent portion serving to receive said object relating to at least one of baseball, basketball, football, hockey, soccer, tennis, skiing, and wrestling.

5. The commemorator of claim 1 wherein said cover comprises a transparent member.

6. The commemorator of claim 1 wherein said first transparent portion is formed substantially flat, and wherein said second transparent portion is formed with a chamber having sufficient space to substantially cup said object.

7. The commemorator of claim 1 wherein said support includes at least one of a frame and a backing.

8. The commemorator of claim 1 wherein at least one of said forward and rearward interfaces comprises at least one of a stop and a fastener.

9. The commemorator of claim 1 wherein at least one of said forward and rearward interfaces is formed integrally with said support.

10. The commemorator of claim 1 in combination with said object, wherein said second transparent portion substantially cups said object.

11. The commemorator of claim 1 in combination with said object and said layer with said picture, wherein said picture is superimposed with said object.

12. The commemorator of claim 1 in combination with said object and said layer with said picture, wherein said picture is associated visually with said object.

13. The commemorator of claim 1 in combination with said layer with said picture, wherein said picture comprises a photograph.

14. The commemorator of claim 1 in combination with said object and said layer with said picture, wherein said object and said picture are related to motor sports.

15. The commemorator of claim 1 in combination with said object and said layer with said picture, wherein said object and said picture are related to fishing.

16. The commemorator of claim 1 in combination with said object and said layer with said picture, wherein said object and said picture are related to at least one of baseball, basketball, football, hockey, soccer, tennis, skiing, and wrestling.

17. A sports commemorator comprising:

a transparent member;

a support formed with forward and rearward portions;

said forward portion having an open interior for displaying a picture on a layer and an object superimposed with said transparent member, said picture and said object being related to a sport;

said transparent member formed with an expanse including a hollow protuberance, a section of said expanse serving to buttress said layer, said hollow protuberance serving to receive said object;

a forward interface between said forward portion and a peripheral portion of said transparent member; and

a rearward interface between said layer and said rearward portion, wherein said forward and rearward interfaces serve to secure said transparent member and said layer for displaying said picture and said object in said open interior.

18. The commemorator of claim 17 wherein said hollow protuberance serving to receive said object comprising a miniature racing car.

19. The commemorator of claim 17 wherein said hollow protuberance serving to receive said object comprising a fishing lure.

20. The commemorator of claim 17 wherein said hollow protuberance serving to receive said object relating to at least one of baseball, basketball, football, hockey, soccer, tennis, skiing, and wrestling.

21. The commemorator of claim 17 wherein said section of said expanse is formed substantially flat, and wherein said hollow protuberance has sufficient space to substantially cup said object.

22. The commemorator of claim 17 wherein said support includes at least one of a frame and a backing.

23. The commemorator of claim 17 wherein at least one of said forward and rearward interfaces comprises at least one of a stop and a fastener.

24. The commemorator of claim 17 wherein at least one of said forward and rearward interfaces is formed integrally with said support.

25. The commemorator of claim 17 in combination with said object, wherein said hollow protuberance substantially cups said object.

26. The commemorator of claim 17 in combination with said object and said layer with said picture, wherein said picture is superimposed with said object.

27. The commemorator of claim 17 in combination with said object and said layer with said picture, wherein said picture is associated visually with said object.

28. The commemorator of claim 17 in combination with said layer with said picture, wherein said picture comprises a photograph.

29. The commemorator of claim 17 in combination with said object and said layer with said picture, wherein said object and said picture are related to motor sports.

30. The commemorator of claim 17 in combination with said object and said layer with said picture, wherein said object and said picture are related to fishing.

31. The commemorator of claim 17 in combination with said object and said layer with said picture, wherein said object and said picture are related to at least one of baseball, basketball, football, hockey, soccer, tennis, skiing, and wrestling.

32. A method for displaying a sports related object and picture, the method comprising:

selecting a support having an open interior;

selecting a cover having a transparent expanse with a transparent chamber;

superimposing the transparent chamber over the object in the open interior;

superimposing the transparent expanse over the picture on a layer in the open interior; and

securing the object and the layer in the open interior, whereby the object and the picture are displayed.

33. The method of claim 32 wherein the transparent chamber serving to receive the object which comprises a miniature racing car.

34. The method of claim 32 wherein the transparent chamber serving to receive the object which comprises a fishing lure.

35. The method of claim 32 wherein the transparent chamber serving to receive the object which relates to at least one of baseball, basketball, football, hockey, soccer, tennis, skiing, and wrestling.