Abstract: A template for assisting in the hanging of framed objects a predetermined distance from one another in which openings are spaced so that either the location for mounting hardware can either be marked or mounting hardware can be installed through the openings. The template may be used to position and visualize installation of subsequent framed objects.

Abstract: A decorative piece for securing together the mitered edges of two frame sections, comprises a locking plate having two threaded apertures for receiving tightening screws, and a backing plate, whereby tightening of the screws forces the locking plate and backing plate apart to clamp the frame sections together. A cosmetic extension attached to one of the plates is adapted to fit between the mitered edges of the adjacent frame sections. The cosmetic extension includes a top portion and a transverse extension arm which provide an attractive junction for the adjacent frame sections which obscures the mitered joint.

Abstract: A decorative piece for securing together the mitered edges of two frame sections, comprises a locking plate having two threaded apertures for receiving tightening screws, and a backing plate, whereby tightening of the screws forces the locking plate and backing plate apart to clamp the frame sections together. A cosmetic extension attached to one of the plates is adapted to fit between the mitered edges of the adjacent frame sections. The cosmetic extension includes a top portion and a transverse extension arm which provide an attractive junction for the adjacent frame sections which obscures the mitered joint.

Abstract: In a picture frame formed of extruded metal sections, each section has a channel for receiving a portion of a corner piece. The corner piece has two L-shaped plates that fit into the receiving channel. A set screw accessible through a gap between two spaced-apart lips at the back of the frame is used to secure adjacent sections.

Abstract: Methods of producing aluminum picture frames having two regions of different colors. Aluminum frame stock is coated with a colored maskant or paint. Selective regions of the coated frame stock are abraded, and then anodized and dyed a second color absorbed by the exposed regions. In a second embodiment, aluminum frame stock is etched, anodized, and dyed a first color. The frame stock is then selectively abraded to remove regions of the first color, and then anodized and dyed a second color so the abraded regions absorb the second color. In a third embodiment, the frame stock is first etched, anodized, and dyed a first color. Selective areas of the frame stock are protected using an etch-resistant mask and is then etched stripping the unmasked regions of the first color and then anodized again and dyed a second color absorbed by the unmasked regions. The mask is then chemically removed.

Abstract: A frame assembly for quickly, easy, and inexpensively framing a work of art without requiring any special tools or skills. The frame assembly includes a transparent protective member and support member. A work of art is positioned between the protective and support members. One or more frame members are then used to secure the protective and support members together. Frame members may be two or three dimensional. Each frame member has a slot defined therein to be slidably displaced over the assembled protective and support members with the work of art disposed therebetween. An internal rib projects outwardly into the slot of the frame member. This rib is received within a corresponding slot defined in at least a portion of the support member. To further ensure that the protective and support members remain secured together, a retaining member, such as a spring clip, leaf clip, or eccentric cam, may be positioned within the slot of the frame member to produce a force against the support member.

Abstract: A machine is disclosed for assembling a metal picture frame having mitred frame sections connected to each other by L-shaped corner pieces which have legs extending into receiving channels within the frame sections and screws in each leg accessible from the back of the frame through an elongated slot in the frame sections. The machine comprises a base on which a corner of the frame can be supported, and a pair of guide rails on the base for engaging the elongated slots to two adjacent frames sections. A corner brace is provided for securing a corner edge of the frame in a fixed position. Two screw drivers extend through the base at a position in which they are aligned with the corner piece screws when the slots of two frame sections engage the guide rails and the corner edge of the two frame sections engages the brace. A motor attached to the base plate rotates the screw drivers to tighten the screws and thereby fasten the frame sections together.

Abstract: A frame having the appearance of a Hicks frame or moulding is disclosed. The frame comprises four mitred frame elements with grooves cut into the mitred surfaces so that when the frame is assembled, a connector can be inserted into the grooves of adjacent frame elements to hold the frame together. Corner pieces which resemble conventional Hicks type corner pieces hide the junctions between adjacent frame elements. Each corner piece includes a connector which fits into the grooves of two adjacent frame elements to hold the frame together.

Abstract: A receptacle plate cover for a standard duplex electrical outlet which covers the entire outlet except for the outlet apertures that receive the prongs of an electrical plug.

Abstract: An arcuate switch plate assembly for a standard wall toggle switch comprising a convex base plate and a convex switch actuator wherein the convex actuator moves in an arc similar to the arc of the toggle switch.

Abstract: A safety night light has a cover that protects the socket from access in at least the top and lateral directions. The cover contacts the wall to prevent objects from being contacted with the prongs of the night light assembly. Access to the socket is denied, rendering the night light far safer for children than conventional night lights.

Abstract: Magnetic devices are described which include a sheet of magnetic material having a relieved groove/ridge configuration, all the grooves and ridges being straight and parallel, and evenly spaced apart. Such devices can form part of apparatus for use in connection with a dry transfer sheet in assisting setting out a correctly spaced and aligned legend on a desired receptor surface. The apparatus can comprise a base member which, e.g. may be attachable to a designed receptor surface and a sheet-holder member. The sheet-holder member can consist of a bar to which a sheet of dry transfer material may be attached. One side of the bar of the sheet-holder member has a rib which may engage in the base member in one of the parallel grooves therein. The lateral spacing of the parallel grooves and the vertical spacing of lines of letters on the dry transfer sheet correspond to ensure accurate horizontal alignment of letters transferred from different rows on the transfer sheet to the final receptor.