Abstract: A universal clamp for attaching display fixtures to a slot in a hollow vertical column support of a modular display system includes a body piece having an axial opening therein, an elongated clamping piece that extends through the body piece and has an enlarged head at one end, and a clamping actuator at an opposite end of the clamping piece to draw the enlarged head into clamping engagement with the column. The head of the clamping piece has a height H greater than the width of the slot in the vertical column and a width W less than the width of the slot. The clamp is rotated ninety degrees to allow the head of the clamping piece to enter the column through the slot, then turned back ninety degrees to engage the head with the column before clamping. A curved face on the body piece matches the curved outer surface of the column and a ridge across the curved face engages the slot to prevent the clamp from rotating around its own axis during clamping.

Abstract: A modular display system includes base units angularly positionable relative to one another on a floor area to define a lower edge of a display space. Base units include an elongated body and a pair of detachable end members connectable to the opposed ends of the elongated body at upper or lower positions. An end member connected at a lower position at one end of the body is connectable at a plurality of angles to an end member on an adjacent base unit connected at the upper position. The angular connection allows the display area to be defined and adjusted prior to installation of vertical elements forming walls. Vertical supports, preferably including columns positioned over the end members between the base units and uprights supported in sleeves in the base units are removably connectable to the base units. Crossbars are removably connectable to the upper ends of the vertical supports for defining an upper edge of the display space.