Having Magnetic Means Patents (Class 40/711)
  • Patent number: 11925587
    Abstract: Caskets, cap panel assemblies for a casket, and methods for manufacturing cap panel assemblies are described. A casket may include a casket shell, at least one casket cap pivotally mounted on the casket shell, and a cap panel assembly mounted in the at least one casket cap. The cap panel assembly may include a cap panel, a puffing member attached to each edge of the cap panel, a cap panel insert positioned in-line with the cap panel, and a plurality of resilient members positioned on a front face of the cap panel insert. The plurality of resilient members may be tensioned, for example, to hold keepsakes, memorabilia, or other types of objects on or in the cap panel insert. The cap panel insert can include a mounting bracket or a screw and wire assembly for mounting the cap panel insert on a wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2024
    Assignee: Matthews International Corporation
    Inventors: Michelle Helena Denk, Yves Joseph Allard, Ronald C. George
  • Patent number: 11737944
    Abstract: Caskets, cap panel assemblies for a casket, and methods for manufacturing cap panel assemblies are described. A casket may include a casket shell, at least one casket cap pivotally mounted on the casket shell, and a cap panel assembly mounted in the at least one casket cap. The cap panel assembly may include a cap panel, a puffing member attached to each edge of the cap panel, and a cap panel insert. The cap panel insert is fastened to the cap panel using pins. The cap panel insert can include a frame, fabric, filler, and a backing board. The cap panel insert can include elastic or ribbon-shaped straps positioned on a front face of the cap panel insert. The elastic or ribbon-shaped straps can be positioned in a lattice or grid-like arrangement. The cap panel insert can include a mounting bracket or a screw and wire assembly for mounting the cap panel insert on a wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2023
    Assignee: Matthews International Corporation
    Inventors: Michelle Helena Denk, Yves Joseph Allard, Ronald C. George
  • Patent number: 11141340
    Abstract: Caskets, cap panel assemblies for a casket, and methods for manufacturing cap panel assemblies are described. A casket may include a casket shell, at least one casket cap pivotally mounted on the casket shell, and a cap panel assembly mounted in the at least one casket cap. The cap panel assembly may include a cap panel, a puffing member attached to each edge of the cap panel, a cap panel insert positioned in-line with the cap panel, and a plurality of resilient members positioned on a front face of the cap panel insert. The plurality of resilient members may be tensioned, for example, to hold keepsakes, memorabilia, or other types of objects on or in the cap panel insert. The cap panel insert can include a mounting bracket or a screw and wire assembly for mounting the cap panel insert on a wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2021
    Assignee: Matthews International Corporation
    Inventors: Michelle Helena Denk, Yves Joseph Allard, Ronald C. George
  • Patent number: 10720085
    Abstract: Sign and display systems including a faceplate, lens, backing plate, and at least one magnet are described. In some embodiments, the faceplate includes a viewing aperture and the back of the faceplate includes a recess in which the at least one magnet is mounted. The recess in the faceplate is configured to receive the lens and backing plate. In some embodiments, the faceplate includes two recesses in the back surface, where the first level recess is configured to receive a backing plate and the second lower level recess is configured to receive the lens. The at least one magnet can be mounted in either a first recessed surface of the first level recess or the backing plate. When the lens and backing plate are positioned in the faceplate, the one or more magnets exert a force to secure the faceplate, lens, and backing plate together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2020
    Assignee: L&M Architectural Graphics, Inc.
    Inventor: Justin Lorenzo
  • Patent number: 10245878
    Abstract: The present invention provides tablets with interconnection features and a system of multiple tablet assemblies removably interconnected to one another. The tablets may be removably mounted to a vertical surface or positioned on a horizontal surface. Features of the present invention allow a user to remove or move one tablet from the system without disrupting or moving the other tablets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2019
    Assignee: COMSERO, INC.
    Inventor: Anthony Franco
  • Patent number: 10149517
    Abstract: A connector mechanism for releasably securing an accessory to an article of apparel includes an accessory and a cooperating backer. The accessory has first and second opposing sides and a cavity extending into the second side. The backer includes a protrusion extending outwardly from a central portion thereof and receivable in the cavity, and a sidewall portion extending outwardly from the peripheral portion. The sidewall portion comprises a plurality of spaced limbs disposed around the protrusion, which are flexibly tensionable against the article. A magnet is coupled to the accessory or the backer, wherein the magnet is adjacent to the protrusion when the protrusion is received in the cavity, the accessory being magnetically coupleable to the backer via the magnet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2018
    Assignee: Minkaa Daisy Lockets & More, LLC
    Inventor: Dawn McKean
  • Patent number: 9728108
    Abstract: A sign and display system including a faceplate, lens, backing plate, and at least one magnet is described. The faceplate includes a viewing aperture and the back of the faceplate includes a recess in which the at least one magnet is mounted. The recess in the faceplate is configured to receive the lens and backing plate. The lens may include one or more edge protrusions configured to enter one or more small recesses in the side of the faceplate recess to secure the lens to the faceplate. When the lens and backing plate are positioned in the recess of the faceplate, the one or more magnets exert a force on the backing plate to secure the faceplate and lens to the backing plate. An insert capable of displaying text and/or graphics can also be positioned between the lens and backing plate in the recess of the faceplate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2017
    Assignee: L&M Architectural Graphics, Inc.
    Inventor: Justin Lorenzo
  • Patent number: 9676142
    Abstract: Systems and kits for decorating walls include a plurality of décor assemblies and a plurality of complementary fastening structures. The décor assemblies include a décor element and a releasable fastening structure providing first fastening elements. The complementary fastening structure includes a base, a pressure sensitive adhesive disposed on the base, and second fastening elements. The first fastening elements are releasably mateable with the second fastening elements to define a releasable fastening system. During use, a complementary fastening structure is releasably applied to a wall, and is connected to and supports one of the décor assemblies via the releasable fastening system. The releasable fastening system can comprise low profile hooks and loops, exhibiting relatively low holding power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2017
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Thomas W. Floyd, Jacob P. Vanderheyden, Nicolas A. Echeverri, Craig D. Thompson, Sean C. McGreevy, Judd D. Olson, Joseph A. Hoffman, Nathan E. Marks, Stephan A. Hawthorne
  • Patent number: 9668595
    Abstract: Systems and kits for decorating walls include a plurality of décor assemblies and a plurality of complementary fastening structures. The décor assemblies include a décor element and a releasable fastening structure providing first fastening elements. The complementary fastening structure includes a base, a pressure sensitive adhesive disposed on the base, and second fastening elements. The first fastening elements are releasably mateable with the second fastening elements to define a releasable fastening system. During use, a complementary fastening structure is releasably applied to a wall, and is connected to and supports one of the décor assemblies via the releasable fastening system. The releasable fastening system can comprise low profile hooks and loops, exhibiting relatively low holding power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2017
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Thomas W. Floyd, Jacob P. Vanderheyden, Nicolas A. Echeverri, Craig D. Thompson, Sean C. McGreevy, Judd D. Olson, Joseph A. Hoffman, Nathan E. Marks, Stephan A. Hawthorne
  • Patent number: 9370266
    Abstract: A frame that is fitted around the border of a display device such as, but not limited to, a television set is disclosed. The frame is configured to be removably mounted to the display device. According to one embodiment of the invention, the frame has multi-piece construction which provides for advertising panels to be removably inserted into the frame. The frame and the advertising panels may be constructed of a material which allows transmission of infrared and/or RF signals to pass through. Optionally, the frame and/or the advertising panels may include knock-out panels positioned over a receiver for an infrared and/or RF signal. A mounting system, such as a hook-and-loop fastening system, may be used to mount the frame to the display device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2016
    Assignee: Best Fit Frames, LLC
    Inventors: Benjamin A. Best, George Parke, IV, Christopher M. Wareham
  • Patent number: 9186000
    Abstract: A keepsake device that is capable storing and displaying fortune cookie papers and printed messages. The device has an outer sleeve that is at least partially transparent and is attachable to and detachable from an inner sleeve to allow insertion and removal of the contents. The device also has a compartment which acts as a storage area for fortune cookie papers and printed messages. The device is shaped so that it can be displayed on a flat surface such as a table top and contains a magnet for attaching the device to a magnetizable surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2015
    Assignee: Malibu Design Studio, LLC
    Inventor: Dianne Parry Dominguez
  • Patent number: 9122056
    Abstract: A sign and display system including a faceplate, lens, backing plate, and at least one magnet is described. The faceplate includes a viewing aperture and the back of the faceplate includes a recess in which the at least one magnet is mounted. The recess in the faceplate is configured to receive the lens and backing plate. The lens may include one or more edge protrusions configured to enter one or more small recesses in the side of the faceplate recess to secure the lens to the faceplate. When the lens and backing plate are positioned in the recess of the faceplate, the one or more magnets exert a force on the backing plate to secure the faceplate and lens to the backing plate. An insert capable of displaying text and/or graphics can also be positioned between the lens and backing plate in the recess of the faceplate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2015
    Assignee: L&M Architectural Graphics, Inc.
    Inventor: Justin Lorenzo
  • Patent number: 9103960
    Abstract: A sign and display system including a faceplate, lens, backing plate, and at least one magnet is described. The faceplate includes a viewing aperture and the back of the faceplate includes a recess in which the at least one magnet is mounted. The recess in the faceplate is configured to receive the lens and backing plate. The lens may include one or more edge protrusions configured to enter one or more small recesses in the side of the faceplate recess to secure the lens to the faceplate. When the lens and backing plate are positioned in the recess of the faceplate, the one or more magnets exert a force on the backing plate to secure the faceplate and lens to the backing plate. An insert capable of displaying text and/or graphics can also be positioned between the lens and backing plate in the recess of the faceplate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2015
    Assignee: L&M Architectural Graphics, Inc.
    Inventor: Justin Lorenzo
  • Publication number: 20150107141
    Abstract: A magnetic frame assembly includes an outer portion including an outer perimeter, an inner perimeter, a front side and a back side; an inner portion configurable with said outer portion, said inner portion including an outer perimeter, a front side and a back side, and a magnetic material disposed on at least one of the back side of the outer portion and the back side of the inner portion. The inner perimeter of the outer portion defines a nesting region configurable with the outer perimeter of the inner portion such that said inner portion is removably insertable into said nesting region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2014
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Inventor: Collette Ryan
  • Patent number: 8959817
    Abstract: Frame arrangements with magnetic assembly features have a frame with a body and a rabbet containing embedded magnets, a lens through which items to be displayed in visible fashion can be viewed, and a backing plate. The lens has a plurality of embedded magnets, and the backing plate is receptive to magnetic attraction with respect to the magnets embedded into the lens, into the frame or both. When desired, the frame arrangement has multipurpose characteristics in that the backing plate can be easily reoriented and provide dry-erase capabilities such that the frame arrangement not only provides a framing function but also is able to provide a message board or similar function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: The Sweetheart Gallery, Inc.
    Inventor: Mary E. Barnes
  • Patent number: 8959816
    Abstract: A sign and display system including a faceplate, lens, backing plate, and at least one magnet is described. The faceplate includes a viewing aperture and the back of the faceplate includes a recess in which the at least one magnet is mounted. The recess in the faceplate is configured to receive the lens and backing plate. The lens may include one or more edge protrusions configured to enter one or more small recesses in the side of the faceplate recess to secure the lens to the faceplate. When the lens and backing plate are positioned in the recess of the faceplate, the one or more magnets exert a force on the backing plate to secure the faceplate and lens to the backing plate. An insert capable of displaying text and/or graphics can also be positioned between the lens and backing plate in the recess of the faceplate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: L&M Architectural Graphics, Inc.
    Inventor: Justin Lorenzo
  • Publication number: 20150027016
    Abstract: A frame that is fitted around the border of a display device such as, but not limited to, a television set is disclosed. The frame is configured to be removably mounted to the display device. According to one embodiment of the invention, the frame has multi-piece construction which provides for advertising panels to be removably inserted into the frame. The frame and the advertising panels may be constructed of a material which allows transmission of infrared and/or RF signals to pass through. Optionally, the frame and/or the advertising panels may include knock-out panels positioned over a receiver for an infrared and/or RF signal. A mounting system, such as a hook-and-loop fastening system, may be used to mount the frame to the display device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2014
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Inventors: Benjamin A. Best, George Parke, IV, Christopher M. Wareham
  • Patent number: 8935868
    Abstract: Magnetic blocks have images disposed thereon. Specifically, a block made from a rigid material includes an image over at least a portion of a first surface and a magnet on at least a portion of a second surface of the block. The block is disposed within a frame or board having a metallic and/or magnetic surface thereon and/or is provided on a metallic and/or magnetized surface. A plurality of blocks having images thereon are disposed together in a tiled arrangement, either in the frame, board or otherwise on the metallic and/or magnetic surface. Moreover, a system comprises the magnetic blocks having images thereon and a frame, board and/or metallic and/or magnetic surface. Methods of making and using the same are further provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Inventor: Margaret L. Rehnberg
  • Patent number: 8904688
    Abstract: A frame is adapted to hold a canvas that comprises a molding constructed and arranged to form a picture frame. The picture frame includes a front viewer facing side and rear wall facing side and a central opening defined by the molding. Additionally, a rabbet extends about the peripheral edge of the molding proximate the opening on the wall facing side. A removable protective covering covers in contacting overlying relation the molding. A canvas has a front viewer side and a rear wall facing side, the canvas being constructed and arranged to overlie and cover the opening and the protective covering when the protective covering is in place over the molding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Inventors: James S. Rue, Carolyn A. Crocker
  • Publication number: 20140259839
    Abstract: A magnetically-attachable display gallery provides a neat and decorative platform to easily add items such as greeting cards, photographs, and other documents by simply slipping them behind the snug clear vinyl pockets. The display gallery is constructed to roll or fold to store neatly away when not in use or for shipping.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: Barry Featherstun Tatum
  • Patent number: 8832979
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a backlight module and an LCD having a positioning structure for fixing an optical film and a frame. The frame includes a side frame having an assembling hole. The optical film is placed on the side frame and includes a protruded ear having a positioning hole. The positioning structure includes: a magnetic member installed inside the assembling hole; an attracted member including a compression part and a positioning pillar, wherein the positioning pillar is connected to the compression part and gets inside the assembling hole through the positioning hole such that the positioning pillar is connected to an attraction hole due to a magnetic effect to make the compression part compress and fix the optical film on the side frame. The positioning structure can fix the optical film in X, Y, and Z directions to raise the positioning reliability, assembling speed, and capacity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Shenzhen China Star Optoelectronics Technology, Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Quan Li
  • Patent number: 8800188
    Abstract: A picture frame tray system for supporting at least one object adjacent a wall is provided. The picture tray system comprises a picture frame having a front side, a rear side substantially opposite the front side, a top edge, a bottom edge substantially opposite the top edge, and a pair of side edges between the top edge and the bottom edge. At least one image positioned on the front side of the picture frame. At least one hinge mechanism is secured between the bottom edge of the picture frame and the wall. The at least one hinge mechanism allows the picture frame to move between a displaying position with the top edge of the picture frame adjacent the wall and the image facing away from the wall and a tray position with the top edge of the picture frame distant from the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Inventor: Aaron Fishelis
  • Publication number: 20140115935
    Abstract: A framing system having a base panel assembly configured so that an ornamental/informational object can be incorporated into the base panel assembly so as to be viewable from in front thereof. A frame extends around a peripheral region of the base panel assembly. Connectors on the base panel assembly and frame cooperate so as to allow the base panel assembly and frame to be: a) moved from a separated relationship relative to each other into an operatively joined relationship; and b) releasably maintained in the operatively joined relationship as an incident of the base panel assembly and frame changing from the separated relationship into the operatively joined relationship, without requiring use of any separate fasteners, once the operatively joined relationship is achieved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2012
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Inventor: Cassandra J. Mason
  • Publication number: 20140109450
    Abstract: Described herein is a picture framing system comprising a frame and at least one display panel. The frame comprises one or more first portions of a coupling mechanism and the at least one display panel comprises corresponding one or more second portions of the coupling mechanism. The frame further comprises at least one of a baseboard, sideboard, cross-bar, and support beam. The at least one of a baseboard, sideboard, cross-bar, and support beam may be one of coupled an integrated to another of the baseboard, sideboard, and cross-bar. The coupling mechanism is adapted to removably couple the panel to the frame without removing the frame from the wall or re-leveling the frame upon coupling a new panel to the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2013
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Inventor: Richard Valois
  • Patent number: 8675354
    Abstract: A memo board, including: a front housing including a first opening; a display module disposed behind a front side of the front housing, a front panel of the display module being exposed through the first opening of the front housing; a circuit board disposed behind the front side of the front housing, the circuit board including a memory and a controller; a back housing configured to receive the circuit board, the display module and the front housing through an opening at a front side of the back housing, the back housing including a mounting connector at a back side of the back housing; and a screen disposed at the front side of the front housing, the front panel of the display module being viewable through the screen, the screen being secured to and removed from the front housing by first and second fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Voxx International Corporation
    Inventor: Jean-Jacques L'Hénaff
  • Publication number: 20140059907
    Abstract: A framing system is disclosed to receive an item to be displayed. The system may include a fixing device, a rear support having a substantially planar surface, and one or more fixing elements. The rear support may include an aperture that is configured to receive a fixing device at least partially therethrough. The fixing element may be configured for engagement with a respective fixing device, wherein an item to be displayed is held in place relative to the rear support under magnetic force between a fixing device and fixing element. A method for the non-destructive mounting of an item to be displayed using such a framing system is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventors: Mark Morrish, John Morrish
  • Publication number: 20140047746
    Abstract: A frame for pictures or other two dimensional objects has one or more facades that may be interchanged on the top surface of the frame. The various facades may have decoration for various occasions, holidays, anniversaries or match different color schemes. The facades may be attached to the top surface of the frame by magnetic means. Decorative objects may also be removably attached to the frame or the facades.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2013
    Publication date: February 20, 2014
    Inventor: Michele Errair
  • Patent number: 8590232
    Abstract: A display article comprising one of a magnetic and magnet attractive material disposed such that the material defines an area, a substrate for the material, the substrate optionally being permeable to a pushpin, the material allowing a magnet or magnet attractive material to be secured thereto, the material be integrally secured to the substrate so as to form a composite article whereby an item to be displayed can be secured to the composite article by a magnet or magnet attractive material and optionally by a pushpin. The composite article is suitable for use as a display surface, allowing securement of articles to be displayed by a magnet or optionally by pushpin. The composite article may be used as wallpaper or a wall covering, for example.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Inventor: Bonnie Roche
  • Patent number: 8584387
    Abstract: The present invention provides a display assembly for posters and the like having a protective sheet that may be replaced with no need to dismount the frame. The protective sheet comprises a strip allowing the sheet to be flexed outwardly to change the display. The display assembly further comprises at least one frame cover which is removably connected to the frame member. The display assembly may be configured to allow the posters to be viewed from both sides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: 3411745 Canada Inc.
    Inventor: Gérard Pénisson
  • Patent number: 8572873
    Abstract: A frame and a system for mounting a plurality of frames in a grid. The frame has an axial first mounting member and a second mounting member, the first mounting member having a generally flat portion exposed to and generally flush with a perimeter surface of the frame. The alignment device has a cross-shaped body having a pair of horizontal members and a pair of vertical members intersecting at a common point, the horizontal and vertical members having interior surfaces defining four quadrants, the alignment device further comprising a level attached to the cross-shaped body and a magnet mounted in a recess in one of the horizontal members or vertical members. The alignment device used to position and mount the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Inventor: Brett Van Bortel
  • Patent number: 8522464
    Abstract: Magnetic blocks have images disposed thereon. Specifically, a block made from a rigid material includes an image over at least a portion of a first surface and a magnet on at least a portion of a second surface of the block. The block is disposed within a frame or board having a metallic and/or magnetic surface thereon and/or is provided on a metallic and/or magnetized surface. A plurality of blocks having images thereon are disposed together in a tiled arrangement, either in the frame, board or otherwise on the metallic and/or magnetic surface. Moreover, a system comprises the magnetic blocks having images thereon and a frame, board and/or metallic and/or magnetic surface. Methods of making and using the same are further provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Inventor: Margaret L. Rehnberg
  • Patent number: 8495830
    Abstract: A quick exchange framing system having two frames that are assembled together via a quick-release means such as a magnetic or friction force to provide easy access to a display, such as a picture or document, for ease in exchanging the display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Inventor: Rodney Price
  • Patent number: 8484873
    Abstract: The subject matter of the current invention is directed to a front-loading display system adapted for safe, frequent, and rapid change of displayed objects. The display system includes a base and an object-holding assembly. The object-holding assembly can be releasably attached to the base through the use of a fastener, which allows the base to remain mounted to a mounting surface when changing display objects. In a preferred embodiment, the fastener employs magnetic force to connect the base and the object-holding assembly. The display object is retained between a resting plate and a cover plate, the two plates being releasably attached to each other by the use of at least one holding device, which may be selected from clips, clasps, hinges and elastic bands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Inventor: Ute Splittgerber
  • Publication number: 20130160338
    Abstract: An apparatus for rapidly and efficiently changing artwork without having to disassemble and reassemble a mounting frame and its components, including a base frame for mounting to a wall. The base frame includes one or more magnets embedded in the base frame. A mounting board sized to match the dimensions of the base frame includes one or more metal strips matched to the placement of the one or more magnets embedded in the base frame. Optionally, a mat, glass or acrylic pane and an outer frame with one or more magnets embedded in the periphery of the outer frame matched to the placement of the one or more magnets embedded in the base frame, may be included.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Inventor: DENNIS R. FORBIS
  • Patent number: 8397411
    Abstract: A magnet-based frame mounting system comprises a frame plate that is magnetically attractive and a wall plate that is magnetically attractive. The frame plate has a first surface that mechanically mounts within a rear surface of a frame. Correspondingly, the wall plate has a first surface that mechanically mounts directly to a wall. When the frame plate is mounted to a corresponding frame, the wall plate is mounted to a corresponding wall, and the frame plate is magnetically coupled to the frame plate, the frame plate is concealed by the frame, the wall plate is concealed by the frame and the frame is repositionable in any direction parallel to the wall plate, without repositioning the wall plate, such that the frame stays at a set location based upon the magnetic coupling between the frame plate and the wall plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Inventors: Kelley M. Russo, Samuel J. Russo
  • Publication number: 20120285060
    Abstract: This invention is directed to picture frames. More particularly, this invention is directed to one or more picture frames with flexible borders that can be coupled together in a variety of configurations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2011
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Applicant: Design Ideas, Ltd.
    Inventors: Raoul GROSS, David HANAUER
  • Publication number: 20120204460
    Abstract: A picture frame for framing a viewable object including frame members defining an opening for the display of the viewable object, a backing within the frame and glazing over the opening. One of the frame members is attached to the backing or to adjacent frame member hinge apparatus. The hingedly attached frame member is movable about the hinge apparatus from a closed position to an open position to allow introduction of the viewable object into the opening. Detent apparatus between the movable frame member and adjacent frame members hold the frame member in a closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2011
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Applicant: MCB CREATIVE PRODUCTS, LLC
    Inventor: Stephen T. Barrow
  • Publication number: 20120090211
    Abstract: A quick exchange framing system having two frames that are assembled together via a quick-release means such as a magnetic or friction force to provide easy access to a display, such as a picture or document, for ease in exchanging the display.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2011
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Inventor: Rodney Price
  • Publication number: 20120036754
    Abstract: A frame and a system for mounting a plurality of frames in a grid. The frame has an axial first mounting member and a second mounting member, the first mounting member having a generally flat portion exposed to and generally flush with a perimeter surface of the frame. The alignment device has a cross-shaped body having a pair of horizontal members and a pair of vertical members intersecting at a common point, the horizontal and vertical members having interior surfaces defining four quadrants, the alignment device further comprising a level attached to the cross-shaped body and a magnet mounted in a recess in one of the horizontal members or vertical members. The alignment device used to position and mount the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2011
    Publication date: February 16, 2012
    Inventor: Brett Van Bortel
  • Publication number: 20120023798
    Abstract: A display device including a display frame, a first mounting member that displays a first object, and a second mounting member that displays a second object, each of the first and second mounting members being disposed within the display frame in one of at least two different configurations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2011
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Inventor: Stewart Seidler
  • Publication number: 20110277364
    Abstract: A modular picture display unit is disclosed forthwith. The modular picture display unit enables the user to easily mount (and remove) a picture within it and to form a multiple picture frame or collage with full freedom to choose the individual picture's placement and orientation. The modular picture display unit contains a transparent front cover and a back cover with a picture placed in between them. The friction between the front cover and the back cover holds the covers in place and prevents them from coming apart. In order to connect two or more modular display units, a connector is provided. The connector is mounted on the back cover side walls of two adjacent modular display units, thereby securing their connection to each other. In order to allow for attaching the modular display units onto a metallic surface (such as a refrigerator door), there is provided a magnet to be placed on a connector or onto the back cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2010
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Inventors: Elisha Smaly, Ehud Amit
  • Patent number: 8042294
    Abstract: An album frame is provided having an outer frame. The outer frame has a back side and an outer periphery. A mounting plate is attached to the back side of the outer frame. A support shelf extends frontwardly from the mounting plate along a first portion of the inner periphery. The support shelf is adapted to support a binding of an album. In addition, the outer frame may have a recessed groove in a second portion of the inner periphery. The second portion is located opposite the first portion of the inner periphery. Furthermore, the outer frame may include a first guiding ramp on a third portion of the inner periphery and a second guiding ramp on a fourth portion of the inner periphery. The first guiding ramp and the second guiding ramp allows an edge of an album cover to be guided into the recessed groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Inventors: Todd Snider, Felipe Nepomuceno
  • Publication number: 20110239511
    Abstract: A device for holding and displaying an article, such as a photograph, comprising a concave front member having a window therein, and, a convex back member having attachment means operatively arranged to releasably secure the device to an external wall, wherein the front and back members are secured to one another to form an envelope for holding and displaying the article, and to form a slot for insertion and removal of the article, wherein the envelope comprises the slot. The device resembles a curved POLAROID® photograph in appearance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2010
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Applicant: UMBRA LLC
    Inventor: Alan WISNIEWSKI
  • Patent number: 7934330
    Abstract: The invention relates to a system for hanging items, such a pictures, posters, paintings or the like on walls and other surfaces. The picture (1) shows one or more magnets contacting a fitting which is fastened to the wall by magnetic attractive material to a certain extent in the same plane as the wall. The system makes it possible to adjust the position of the picture both horizontally (16) and vertically (17). The magnet is fastened to the picture in a way which makes it possible for the picture to tilt both around a horizontal and a vertical axis in the same level as the wall and which makes it possible for the picture to equalize potentially differences in the parallelism between the wall fitting and the picture. When hanging the picture the magnet risks furthermore moving away form the picture, which results in the magnet itself, will find its way towards the fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Inventor: Pelle Nicolaisen
  • Publication number: 20110023344
    Abstract: The present invention provides a display assembly for posters and the like having a protective sheet that may be replaced with no need to dismount the frame. The protective sheet comprises a hinge allowing the sheet to be flexed outwardly to change the display. The display assembly further comprises at least one frame cover which is removably connected to the frame member. The display assembly may be configured to allow the posters to be viewed from both sides.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2007
    Publication date: February 3, 2011
    Inventor: Gérard Pénisson
  • Patent number: 7866076
    Abstract: A pushpin comprising a pin suitable for penetrating a pin permeable object for frictional engagement with the pin permeable object; a gripping handle on the pin, the gripping handle having a magnet attractive surface so that a magnet can be attached to the gripping handle thereby to allow an object to be displayed to be secured to the gripping handle between the handle and the magnet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Inventor: Bonnie Roche
  • Patent number: 7841115
    Abstract: A mounting system for displaying planar articles (13) comprising a plate (10) of a magnetic material, a plurality of fingers (12) projecting from the plate (10), the fingers (12) having co-planar support surfaces, and magnets (14) that can be placed in register with the support surfaces so that corners of the planar articles (13) are sandwiched between the magnets (14) and the support surfaces of the fingers (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: Nokia Corporation
    Inventor: Harry Saunders-Singer
  • Patent number: 7802390
    Abstract: A picture frame for holding and displaying content. The picture frame has an edge with a channel receiving the content. An edge segment is attachable to and detachable from the remainder of the edge, using magnets, to allow insertion and removal of the content. A back has a front face to which the edge remainder is attached and a rear face including one or more magnets for attaching the back to a magnetically attractive surface. An optional stand has a plurality of elements that engage at least one of the back magnets to support the back in multiple directions and orientations. An optional hanger is made of a magnetically attracted material for engaging at least one of the back magnets and attach the hanger to the back. The hanger is configured to engage a fastener and hang the picture frame from the fastener when the stand is not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Inventor: Richard C. Reis
  • Publication number: 20100229440
    Abstract: Display apparatuses for displaying a sheet material, including a panel including a front face and a rear face opposite the front face, a protuberance projecting from the front face, and a cap mounted to the protuberance in a position spaced from the front face to define a gap between the cap and the front face on at least one lateral side of the protuberance, wherein the gap has a thickness substantially similar to the thickness of the sheet material to secure the sheet material within the gap when the sheet material is inserted into the gap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2010
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Inventor: Hal Bevers
  • Publication number: 20100229439
    Abstract: A modular system of displaying and framing images that includes magnets on the frame that allows for easy assembly of individual units and the easy display on a wall or on a flat surface. Additionally, each modular unit can connect with other individual units to grow the display in many directions. In an alternate embodiment, a frame is disclosed that allows for the display of non-traditional sized items, such as panoramic photos, in a single frame, using a simple connecting design. Specialized software that detects the date a photograph was taken can also be utilized to created progressive images of the same person or place that advance with time, given the known information of the dates of creation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2009
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Inventor: Trevor Elliot