Multi-position media display frame with movable media

Abstract

A frame for displaying media in more than one viewing positions and for storing additional media within the frame. The media is stored in stacks with the end piece of media viewable through an opening in the frame. Media can be moved from the end of one stack to the adjacent end of another by sliding movement within the frame. Both ends of the stacks are available, allowing the media to be cycled through the stacks, making each item of media available for viewing. Preferably, the media is carried in caddies, with an item of media visible from each face of the caddy. Also preferably, a removable spacer separate the faceplates and can be interchanged with spacers of different thickness to adjust the capacity of the frame. An optional gate between the stacks restricts movement to a single caddy at a time and an optional loading slot allows caddies to be inserted or removed without opening the frame.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/242,965 filed Oct. 23, 2000.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The invention relates to display frames for pictures or other media having multiple display locations and more specifically to such frames where the media can be moved from position to position within the frame.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Conventional picture frames are well known. Frames which hold a single picture. Frames which hold two or three pictures side by side. Frames which use a mat board to hold a large number of smaller pictures in a single frame. A very wide variety of frames which share a single characteristic: they display a static picture or set of pictures. If the user desires to change the picture(s) being displayed, the frame must be opened and a new picture installed.

[0004] From where do the new pictures come? Photo albums, shoe boxes and envelopes are common ways of storing pictures which are not currently being displayed. New pictures to be displayed will be extracted from their boxes and inserted into the frame while the old pictures take their place in storage.

[0005] The trouble of locating new pictures for display, opening the frames and interchanging the pictures is often greater than the benefit of changing the pictures. Because of this, the same pictures remain on display even though the user would prefer to change them.

[0006] This is also true where newspaper clippings, inspirational sayings, coin collections, or other items for display exceed the capacity of the frames available to display them. It is often desirable to change items on display in a public area, such as a lobby, more frequently to present a fresh appearance each time a guest visits.

[0007] There is a need for a media display frame which enables the easy and rapid interchange of the media being displayed. The frame should provide for storage of undisplayed media within the frame, available for immediate display. Preferably, it should be possible to exchange the currently displayed media for stored media without opening the frame and with minimal effort. Preferably, the media frame should provide for multiple viewing positions within the frame and ideally there would be viewing positions on both faces of the frame to allow viewing from both sides. This would allow the frame to be displayed in the middle of a room with no “back” side visible. Also preferably, the frame should be readily adaptable to display sitting on a table, hanging on a wall, or in any other manner desired, such as hanging from a ceiling.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The present invention is directed to a media display frame which both displays and stores media such as pictures. The media is arranged in stacks with one or both ends of the stack visible through openings in the faceplate(s) of the frame.

[0009] According to the invention there is provided a spring loaded pressure plate for each of the media stacks to capture and retain the media within the stack. The pressure plate also holds the media parallel to the faceplate for best viewing. Where both ends of a stack are visible, there are preferably pressure plates at both ends of the stack. The pressure plates can move toward and away from the stack to accommodate variations in stack size as the media is moved, loaded, and unloaded.

[0010] According to an aspect of the invention there may be any number of stacks and viewing positions. They may be arranged in a variety of two dimensional patterns and media may be moved from stack to stack by sliding within the frame. Sequential moves to the same stack cause media to be covered, pushing it into the storage portion of the stack which can not be viewed.

[0011] According to another aspect of the invention a spacer may be provided which separates the faceplates of the frame. The thickness of this spacer corresponds to the size of stacks which can be accommodated and thus the storage capacity of the frame. The spacer is preferably removable and can be interchanged with another of different thickness to alter the capacity of the frame.

[0012] Further in accordance with the invention there may be provided a loading slot in either the faceplate(s) or the spacer which allows media to be inserted or removed from the frame without opening or disassembling the frame. This loading slot may optionally incorporate a retaining mechanism such as a door or stop pin to prevent media from being inserted into or extracted from the frame.

[0013] Still further in accordance with the invention, there may be provided caddies to hold and transport the media. These caddies are generally stiffer and stronger than the media and lend support and protection to the media. The caddies may be configured to cooperate with the retaining mechanism so that the caddies may be partially ejected from the frame so that they may be more easily loaded with media with being fully removed from the frame. The caddies may incorporate beveled edges to ease their movement between stacks.

[0014] Yet still further in accordance with the invention, access slots may be provided in the face or edges of the frame to provide direct access to the edges of the media or caddies from outside the frame so that the media may be more easily moved from one stack to another within the frame.

[0015] The advantages of such a device are a single media frame which provides both display of media and storage of media available to be exchanged with that media on display. That exchange can take place readily and does not require opening the frame. Each of the stacks is viewable from at least one end, and preferably both, providing a number of viewing positions. The frame may be stood up, hung, or displayed in any other manner desired.

[0016] The above and other features and advantages of the present invention will become more clear from the detailed description of a specific illustrative embodiment thereof, presented below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the media frame.

[0018] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the media frame displayed on a table.

[0019] FIG. 3 is a side view of the media frame on a table.

[0020] FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a caddy.

[0021] FIG. 4B is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a caddy.

[0022] FIG. 4C is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a caddy.

[0023] FIG. 4D is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a caddy.

[0024] FIG. 4E is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of a caddy.

[0025] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the media frame.

[0026] FIG. 6 is a top view of a caddy.

[0027] FIG. 7 is an edge view of a caddy.

[0028] FIG. 8A is a detail view of the preferred embodiment of a caddy edge.

[0029] FIG. 8B is a detail view of an alternative embodiment of a caddy edge.

[0030] FIG. 9 is a plan view of the outer surface of a faceplate.

[0031] FIG. 10 is a plan view of the inner surface of a faceplate.

[0032] FIG. 11A is a perspective view of a first alternative embodiment of a media frame with side access slots.

[0033] FIG. 11B is a perspective view of a second alternative embodiment of a media frame with side access slots.

[0034] FIG. 12A is a detail view of a first alternative embodiment of a side access slot.

[0035] FIG. 12B is a detail view of a second alternative embodiment of a side access slot.

[0036] FIG. 13 is a plan view of the preferred embodiment of a pressure plate showing the inner surface.

[0037] FIG. 14 is an edge view of the preferred embodiment of a pressure plate.

[0038] FIG. 15A is a perspective view of the media frame using a first alternative embodiment of the pressure plate.

[0039] FIG. 15B is a perspective view of the media frame using a second alternative embodiment of the pressure plate.

[0040] FIG. 15C is a perspective view of the media frame using a third alternative embodiment of the pressure plate.

[0041] FIG. 16A is a plan view of the preferred embodiment of the spacer.

[0042] FIG. 16B is a plan view of a first alternative embodiment of the spacer.

[0043] FIG. 16C is a plan view of a second alternative embodiment of the spacer.

[0044] FIG. 17 is an end view of the first alternative embodiment of the spacer.

[0045] FIG. 18 is a cross section through a media frame configured for a maximum stack size of three.

[0046] FIG. 19 is a cross section through a media frame configured for a maximum stack size of six.

[0047] FIG. 20 is a detail of the cross section of FIG. 18 showing the spacer.

[0048] FIG. 21 is a detail of the cross section of FIG. 19 showing the spacer.

[0049] FIG. 22 is a detail of the cross section of FIG. 18 showing the gate.

[0050] FIG. 23 is a detail of the cross section of FIG. 19 showing the gate.

[0051] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a media frame cut away to show the preferred embodiment of the stop pin.

[0052] FIG. 25 is a detail of the cut away of FIG. 24 showing the preferred embodiment of the stop pin in the depressed position.

[0053] FIG. 26 is a detail of the cut away of FIG. 24 showing the preferred embodiment of the stop pin in the relaxed position.

[0054] FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a media frame cut away to show an first alternative embodiment of the stop pin.

[0055] FIG. 28 is a detail of the cut away of FIG. 27 showing the first alternative embodiment of the stop pin.

[0056] FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a media frame cut away to show a door use as and alternative embodiment of the retaining mechanism.

[0057] FIG. 30 is a detail of the cut away of FIG. 27 showing the door alternative embodiment of the retaining mechanism.

[0058] FIG. 31 is a perspective view of the media frame opened for media loading.

[0059] FIG. 32 is a perspective view of the media frame with a caddy partially extended for media loading.

[0060] FIG. 33 illustrates the sequence of positions when a pair of caddies is rotated counter clockwise.

[0061] FIG. 34 illustrates the sequence of positions when a pair of caddies is rotated clockwise.

[0062] FIG. 35 illustrates the sequence of positions when a single caddy is alternated from stack to stack.

[0063] FIG. 36 is a plan view of an alternative embodiment of the media frame incorporating three stacks arrange in a single row.

[0064] FIG. 37 is a plan view of an alternative embodiment of the media frame incorporating two rows of two stack each.

[0065] FIG. 38 is a plan view of an alternative embodiment of the media frame with eight viewing positions achieved by providing two rows of four stacks each.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0066] The following discussion focuses on the preferred embodiment of the invention, as used to display photographs or similar visual media. However, as will be recognized by those skilled in the art, the disclosed apparatus is applicable to a wide variety of situations in which interchangeable storage and presentation of various type of media is desired.

[0067] Glossary

[0068] The following is a brief glossary of terms used herein. The supplied definitions are applicable throughout this specification and the claims unless the term is clearly used in another manner.

[0069] Caddy—sliding component which carries media or cartridge

[0070] Cartridge—optional supporting/enclosing carrier for thin media such as a photograph. Lends structural support and optionally protects the media (i.e. plastic sheet over face.

[0071] Direct Media—display item is printed directly on the Caddy, not separately removable.

[0072] Face—generally one of the flat surfaces within which the media viewing positions are defined. As opposed to a side.

[0073] Faceplate—the outermost piece of the frame on the surface from which the media is viewed. Preferably there are two faceplates, on opposing faces, providing two viewing directions.

[0074] Media—item to be displayed: photo, drawing, article, etc. Can be any substantially two dimensional item which will fit into a caddy, including coins, ribbons, stamps, etc.

[0075] Side—generally the relatively small surfaces of the frame adjacent and perpendicular to the faces.

[0076] Spring—any mechanical means of applying a biasing force. This could be a coil spring, leaf spring, or resilient material such as rubber or foam. Where the invention is positioned horizontally, the use of gravity as the biasing force is considered equivalent.

[0077] Viewing position—location in the frame where a piece of media may be positioned for viewing from outside the frame. Generally defined by an opening in a faceplate.

[0078] Preferred Embodiment

[0079] The disclosed invention is described below with reference to the accompanying figures in which like reference numbers designate like parts. Generally, numbers in the 200's refer to prior art elements or elements in the surrounding environment while numbers in the 100's refer to elements of the invention.

[0080] Overview

[0081] The present invention, as shown in FIG. 1, is a picture frame, or more generally a media display frame, having a plurality of viewing positions, 102. In addition, the frame provides internal storage for further media and the ability to move media between viewing positions and between storage and viewing positions without opening the frame. In the preferred embodiment, there are four viewing positions, with two on each of the opposing faces. If preferred, the frame may be used to display media on only one of the faces and for that application can be manufactured with viewing positions on only one face.

[0082] The frame is intended to be displayed in a variety of positions including hanging on a wall, FIGS. 3A & B, suspended from a ceiling or other overhead structure, and sitting on a table or other surface, 200, FIGS. 2A & B. Slots, 104, are provided for the attachment of a hanger, 107, support, 106, or other mounting device. In the preferred embodiment slots are provided adjacent the upper and lower edge of each faceplate, 118, for maximum flexibility in placement. Alternatively the slots could be positioned on the edges of the frame or holes or projections could also be used.

[0083] Each item of media is preferably transported by a caddy. The frame can utilize a variety of types of caddies and they may be intermixed at user preference. FIG. 4A illustrates a first embodiment of a caddy, 108, in which the media, 202, is placed directly into the caddy, and is received by recess, 114. Where the frame is configured for two sided viewing the media may be two sided or two separate items of one-sided media may be inserted back to back. The caddy embodiment, 108′″, of FIG. 4D is very similar to that of 4A with the addition of protrusions, 115, to retain the media. These protrusions are slightly above and extend into recess, 114, allowing the media to be slid underneath.

[0084] FIG. 4B illustrates a second embodiment of a caddy, 108″, in which the media, 202, is first inserted into a sleeve or cartridge, 112, which is then inserted into the caddy. Recess 114 may the identical to that of caddy 108′ or it may be enlarged or reconfigured to better hold the sleeve. This approach offers advantages where thinner or less rigid media is used as the sleeve aids in supporting the media. The sleeve can also serve to adapt smaller items of media to a relatively larger caddy. If desired, the sleeve can also serve the role of a mat board in a conventional frame to visually crop the media without the requirement of physically altering the media itself. While the caddy itself can also serve this purpose, using easily interchangeable sleeves offers greater flexibility and ease of use. The sleeve may also provide increased flexibility in positioning the media within the caddy. For example the outer dimensions of the sleeve, and the recess in the caddy, may be made square while the opening for the media may be rectangular, to match typical photographs. The sleeve may then be placed in the caddy with the opening, and media, in either a landscape or portrait perspective.

[0085] FIG. 4C illustrates a direct media embodiment of the caddy, 108′. Rather than supporting a separate piece of media, the caddy itself becomes the media. The image, text, or other information to be display is imprinted directly onto the surface, 110, of the caddy. Both faces will be imprinted for two sided viewing. This is especially applicable where the frame serves a single fixed purpose, such as a calendar or display of motivational material.

[0086] The embodiment of FIG. 4E incorporates edges, 117, which are textured to provide an improved grip. This texturing may be sculpting as shown, knurling, or any other well known technique. This type of caddy would be preferred for media frames using an edge access slot, 122′ or 122″, as shown in FIGS. 11A-12B.

[0087] A further alternative, not illustrated, would utilize a solid caddy with no opening and mount a separate piece of media on each side, preferably using recesses, 114, formed on each side and optional protrusions, 115, for media retention. Other embodiments could utilize caddies with multiple openings or recesses to hold multiple items of media. See the discussion of FIGS. 37 & 38 below.

[0088] A further caddy alternative would incorporate a transparent panel, such as glass or plastic, to protect the media in the caddy.

[0089] In the simplest form, the frame could be used directly with conventional media as long as the media is sufficiently rigid. The media would take the place of the caddies and be stacked and moved within the inventive frame, held in position by the pressure plates. This is essentially the degenerate case of the direct media approach, where the remaining features of the caddy, such as the slots and bevels, are eliminated.

[0090] As will be discussed in more detail below, the inventive frame stores the caddies in internal stacks. Those caddies positioned at either end of the stack are viewable at the viewing positions. The capacity of each stack is determined by the relative thickness of the caddies and that of the spacer, 116.

[0091] Caddies are moved between stacks by sliding from the top of one stack to the top of the another. Access slots, 122, are provided in the faceplates to provide access to the caddies. The user can insert a finger into a slot, contacting the caddy and slide the caddy to the side. This movement exposes a new caddy on the stack from which the caddy is being removed and hides the top caddy on the stack to which the caddy is being moved. Since slots are provided on both faces, caddies can be rotated through the stacks, exposing all of the stored media. This movement will be discussed in more detail below. Note that the caddies themselves do not rotate when moved. They remain parallel to the plane of the frame at all times. If desired, an automatic mechanism, such as a motor drive could also be used to move the caddies. This would be especially desirable where the frame is used for a public display such as in a lobby or reception area or for advertising.

[0092] In the preferred embodiment, the edges of the caddies have a double bevel, allowing movement in either direction, as discussed below. If preferred, the caddies may have a single bevel, limiting movement to a single direction.

[0093] In the preferred embodiment, there are two stacks of caddies. One stack will typically contain the maximum allowed number of caddies and the other will contain one less caddy. In this configuration, movement of the caddies is limited to be from the full stack to the other. A simple alternative utilizes two stacks, but only one viewing position. Clearly, the number of stacks could be increased without departing from the principles of the invention. The stacks may be arranged in a row, as in frame 100′, FIG. 36, or in a two dimensional pattern, as in 100″, FIG. 37. With a two dimensional layout, the caddy movement herein could easily be extended to allow for movement in both directions, i.e. between columns of the same row, or between rows of the same column. As FIG. 38 shows, the configurations of FIGS. 36 & 37 can be combined to create a frame, 100′″, with more than one row of multiple viewing positions each. This embodiment can also be implemented as two stacks of larger caddies holding four items of media each, each displayed at its own viewing position. This has the disadvantage that all four items must be moved as a group with the caddy. Note that in any of these configurations, one of the stacks could serve solely as storage, with none of the media in that stack visible. The faceplate over that stack would present a blank face which could be inscribed or serve to mount a commemorative plaque, logo, or similar.

[0094] Similarly, stacks with any number of caddies equal to or less than the maximum allowed by the spacer can be used if desired. The important feature is that the pressure plates have sufficient travel to maintain pressure on the caddies. If the pressure plates lack sufficient travel to meet in the middle of the frame, the minimum number of caddies that can be used in a stack may be that number which fills the gap between the pressure plates at their most extended position. Where more than one stack has less than the maximum number of caddies, simultaneous movement of an equal number of caddies would be possible. Note that the use of stacks with unequal numbers of caddies does provide a desirable offset which eases movement from the larger stack to the smaller stack and that this offset is optimal when the difference is one.

[0095] Structure

[0096] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the inventive frame showing all of the major components. These are described in detail below, and are only summarized here. Faceplates, 118, form the outer faces of the frame. Spacer, 116, separates the faceplates and forms the internal space which contains the caddies, 108. Pressure plates, 120, under the urging of springs, 124, apply pressure the ends of the stacks of caddies. Gate, 134, blocks movement between the stacks of caddies except at the ends. Optional stop pins, 126, control movement of the caddie toward the outside of the frame.

[0097] Referring to FIGS. 6-8, the structure of a caddy can be seen in more detail. Conceptually simple, the caddy incorporates several important features. Recess, 114, receives the media to be displayed (in this embodiment). Opening, 130, allows viewing of the media and also visually crops the media from one direction. On the side from which the media is inserted, the entire media will be visible to the extent allowed by the opening in the faceplate. As discussed above, other embodiments may use a sleeve to support and crop the media or the image, text, etc. may be imprinted directly on the caddy. The leading and trailing edges, 136, of the caddy are beveled to assist in movement from stack to stack. The bevel of the moving caddy engages the matching bevel on the end caddy of the stack to which it is being moved, causing the moving caddy to ride over the edge of the stacked caddy. Likewise, the bevel of the moving caddy will also engage the edge of the pressure plate, moving, or flexing, it away from the stack so that the moving caddy intrudes between the pressure plate and the end of the stack. This is discussed further below with reference to the operation of the frame. In the preferred embodiment, matching double bevels, see FIG. 8A, used on both edges of the caddy, allow movement in both directions. Alternatively, a single bevel, FIG. 8B, on one edge and a mirror image bevel on the other edge effectively restricts movement to one direction as the caddy will not ride up over the edge of the pressure plate. A further alternative would be to use rounded edges. With the radius properly matched to the thickness of the caddy, rounded edges would function in the same manner as the double bevel.

[0098] Extended edges, 134, serve a dual purpose. These edges are the primary contact location for the pressure plate to bear on the caddy. Even where the pressure plate applies pressure primarily at the corners, that pressure will bear along these edges as the caddy is moved into position. These edges also extend beyond the pressure plate and are accessible via access slots, 122, in the faceplates to facilitate moving the caddies by finger pressure. Holes, 132, serve to improve the user's grip on the caddy. In an alternative embodiment where the access slots are formed in the edges of the frame, the size of edges, 134, can be reduced since the contact area will not be needed. In that embodiment, the edges of the caddy may be serrated, or similar, to improve traction.

[0099] Slots, 128, cooperate with pins, 126 in FIG. 5, to limit the movement of the caddy out of the frame. The pins are positioned to the outside of the caddy stacks and restrict movement of the caddies outward through the loading slots in the ends of the frame. Where slots, 128, are not provided the caddies are retained strictly in the stacks. Slots, 128, are aligned with the pins and allow the caddies to move somewhat out of the frame. The length of the slot is adapted to allow the caddy to move sufficiently far enough to make the recess, 114, accessible from outside of the frame, This enables loading of the caddy without removing it from the frame. This simplifies changing the media an reduces the chance of lost or misplaced caddies. Where this feature is not necessary, or desired, these slots may be eliminated.

[0100] A typical faceplate, 118, is shown from the outer surface, FIG. 9, and the inner surface, FIG. 10. Openings, 102, define the viewing positions for the media and correspond to the locations of the stacks. Recess, 136, defined around the edges of the viewing position provides a space into which the pressure plate can withdraw as the stack expands. In the preferred embodiment, the shape of the recess closely matches the outline of the pressure plate and thus serves to retain the plate in position as the caddies move. Recesses, 140, provide further clearance for the springs which mount and apply to the pressure plates.

[0101] Access slots, 122, extend completely through the faceplate and expose the edges of the top surface of the caddies. In this manner, the user can insert a finger in the access slots and slide the top caddy from one stack to another. FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate alternative embodiments of the access slot, 122′ & 122″, which are formed in the side of the frame. This type of slot is configured to expose the edges of the caddies, and preferably only the edges of the top caddy of each stack. In the preferred embodiment, only the top caddy of a full stack will be accessible. In this embodiment the caddies are slightly more difficult to manipulate, but the visual appearance of the face of the frame is improved and the frame can be made narrower (in height) since the slot need not be accommodated in the front face.

[0102] As discussed above, slots, 104, provide for attachment of a stand or mounting device. Clearly, this slot could be replaced by slots, holes, protrusions, or other attachment means on the sides or ends of the frame.

[0103] Indentations, 138, are aligned with the openings in the end(s) of the spacer (discussed below) and provide increased space for the user to grasp a caddy as it is being extracted or moved to an extended position for media loading. These indentations may be straight sided or may taper, decreasing in size toward the inside.

[0104] In the preferred embodiment, which has loading slots at both ends of the frame, the two faceplates on opposing faces are identical in configuration. In an alternative embodiment where there is a loading slot only at one end, the faceplates will be mirror images of each other. As mentioned above, a blank faceplate, which eliminates the openings, 102, but retains the other features, could also be used where the frame is intended to be viewed from only one face. The faceplates could be manufactured using a variety of methods, but injection molding is preferred to economically achieve the three dimensional shape. Alternatively the faceplates could be machined or built up from thinner sheets having the appropriate profiles. Clearly, other techniques well known in the field would also be applied.

[0105] An alternative embodiment of the faceplates could incorporate glass, plastic, or other transparent sheets covering the openings, 102, to protect the media. These sheets could be set into either the outer or inner surface of the faceplate. If on the inner surface they are preferably above (to the outside) of the pressure plates so as not to interfere with the contact between the pressure plates and the caddies. In one embodiment, the springs are adhesively attached to the inner surface of the glass. In another, the glass is contoured to leave the mounting area for the springs open.

[0106] Another alternative embodiment of the face plate incorporates side walls which extend toward the inside of the frame. This is illustrated in FIGS. 11B & 12B. The side walls increase the depth of the frame and increase the width available in the side wall. This allows for incorporation of the access grooves, 122′ or 122″, in the sides and formation of the loading slots entirely within the end of the faceplate. Where the side wall is made sufficiently large, the spacer could be eliminated.

[0107] FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate the preferred embodiment of the pressure plate, 120. The plate defines an opening, 142, closely matched to opening, 102, in the faceplate. If desired, the opening can also be made smaller to visually crop or frame the media. This opening can be of any shape desired and pressure plates with different shaped openings can be used within one frame. Alternatively, a separate mat board can be positioned between the pressure plate and the faceplate to serve the same purpose. The exposed portion of the pressure plate could also be imprinted with a text message or decorative motif if desired. The pressure plate is designed to apply pressure around all edges of the caddy for best registration. The beveled edges, 144, on the leading and trailing edges of the pressure plate assist the pressure plate to ride over the edge of a caddy as it slides between the pressure plate and the end of the stack when moved by the user. Springs, 124, both apply pressure to the pressure plate and mount the plate to the faceplate. In the preferred embodiment there are springs at all four corners. This configuration allows the corners to move independently, allowing the pressure plate to remain in contact with both the stack and the new caddy being inserted for as long as possible. Alternative configurations, such as at diagonally opposing corners, or distributed along the edge could also be used. Where the caddy holds separate media, but does not incorporate retaining clips, the pressure plate can be aligned to that it somewhat overlaps the edge of the media, holding it in the caddy.

[0108] FIGS. 15A-C illustrate alternative embodiments of the pressure plate. Separate strips, 120° FIG. 15A, with discrete springs, 124, function in much the same manner as the preferred embodiment, but can not serve as a cropping or framing device. The same strips but with full length foam rubber springs, 124° FIG. 15B, offer the advantage of more uniform pressure along the length of the strip and provide better lateral stability. Full length strips, 120″ FIG. 15C, with a full length springs, 124″, can also be used. With no gap between the stacks, there is no need for a beveled edge to capture the caddies and the strip can be made much thinner. A thin, low friction sheet can be used to reduce the overall thickness of the assembled frame. While it will flex around the caddies to a degree, this would be acceptable as there is no transition of a caddy on or off of the plate.

[0109] In the preferred embodiment, the springs are formed as disks of foam rubber. These disks may be round, hexagonal, triangular or any desired profile which adapts to the shape of that portion of the pressure plate to which they are mounted. In some of the above alternative embodiments, the “spring” is actually a strip of foam rubber which extends for the full length of the pressure plate. Clearly other resilient materials could be used and methods of selecting an appropriate material to provide the desired pressure and compressibility are well known in the art. Other approaches such as using coil or leaf springs would also be applicable and are anticipated.

[0110] The capacity of the frame is preferably determined by the thickness of the spacer plate, 116 in FIGS. 1 & 5, which separates the faceplates. The preferred embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 16A. Two parallel spaced apart bars of the same thickness are inserted between the faceplates, aligned with the long edges of the frame. This configuration leaves a gap at the end of the frame, equal in height to the thickness of the spacer. In combination with the indentation, 138 FIG. 10, this provides an opening through which caddies can be inserted into or removed from the frame. A caddy may also be partially extracted through the opening to allow for media insertion and removal. Notches, 128, retain the gate, discussed below.

[0111] FIG. 16B illustrates an alternative embodiment of the spacer in which one end is entirely closed off and the other left open. This is somewhat stronger a presents a smoother, more finished appearance for one end. Loading and unloading is not substantially hindered as the caddies can be freely moved between the stacks, allowing them to be repositioned for access.

[0112] FIG. 16C and 17 illustrate a further alternative where one end is entirely closed off and the other end is partially closed, leaving gap, 130, for loading and unloading of caddies. Preferably, the gap is sized to accept a single caddy. It may be made somewhat larger to ease insertion and removal when there are a small number of caddies in the stack. In this situation, the pressure plate may extend further into the cavity which holds the stack, and not be aligned with the loading slot. This configuration further improves the strength of the frame over the version of FIG. 16B and improves the appearance by providing a substantially closed end. Loading and unloading is somewhat hindered because there will only be one position from which caddies may be loaded or unloaded. However, since the caddies are freely movable, loading and unloading is readily achieved. This configuration may also provide greater stability to the stacks of caddies as they will be restrained by the ends of the spacer.

[0113] A further alternative, not pictured, is to eliminate the loading slot completely. This provides the best appearance and prevents loading and unloading of the frame. This would be desirable where the frame is freely available to the public and tampering might otherwise occur or where the contents are to remain unchanged, as for a calendar. Manufacturing is also simplified.

[0114] With any of the above embodiments of the spacer, the spacer, 116, may be interchanged with another spacer, 132, of different thickness to adjust the capacity of the frame, see FIGS. 18-21. This may be done by the user at any time when increased, or decreased, capacity is needed. Alternatively, spacers may be combined to achieve different thicknesses. Because the faceplates and their associated pressure plates do not directly interact, the frame may be expanded to arbitrary capacity without altering their function.

[0115] FIGS. 22 and 23 illustrate alternative embodiments of the gate, 134 and 134′. The gate occupies the space between the caddy stacks and restricts the movement of caddies between the stacks. Preferably, the gate has a width substantially equal to the size of the space it occupies. The preferable height is less than that of the occupied height by approximately the thickness of one caddy. The gate thus leave a gap through which a single caddy can move. Because the gate is free to move toward and away from the faceplates, this gap may occur near either faceplate at user preference. Typically, the gate is moved by positioning the frame substantially horizontal with the caddy to be moved on the top. Gravity moves the gate to the bottom, opening a gap at the top adjacent to the caddy. The caddy may then be freely moved to the other stack. Alternatively, the bottom caddy may be moved, relying on the beveled edge of the caddy to lift the gate out of the way. Note that at no time is there a gap adjacent the middle of a stack, thus assuring that the middle caddies remain aligned within their stacks. As shown in FIG. 23, where a larger spacer, 132, is used, a larger gate, 134′, having an equivalent increase in height, will be used to maintain the one caddy thickness gap. The gate may fit freely in the space between the stack or be retained by notches, 128, in the spacer or faceplate.

[0116] In all embodiments of the gate, the corners are preferably rounded or beveled to assist the edge of the caddy over the gate. While the preferred embodiment uses a round gate for the smallest size and an oval for larger sizes, this shape is not critical. Squares or rectangles with rounded or beveled corners have also been found to be effective. Other shapes may also be used. The gate could be eliminated from the frame, but with increased risk of unintended movement of caddies.

[0117] If desired, the frame may incorporate a retaining mechanism to keep the caddies within the frame. FIGS. 24-26 illustrate the stop pins, 126, used for this purpose in the preferred embodiment. These pins are spring biased and present two slots, 136, through which caddies can pass. In their relaxed position, the slots in the pins are not aligned with the loading slots in the end of the frame and caddy movement is blocked by the body of the pins. When the pins are depressed, the slots align with the loading slots in the frame and a caddy can be inserted or extracted through the slot. In the preferred embodiment, The pins are positioned so as to engage slot, 128 in FIG. 6, so that when the pin is depressed, the caddy may be only partially extracted to allow for media loading. Complete removal of a caddy requires that the pins be removed. Alternatively, the pins could be positioned at each edge of each loading slot. This would allow caddy removal when the pin is depressed, eliminating the need for removable pins. If desired, the pins could be eliminated where accidental movement of the caddies is not a concern.

[0118] FIGS. 27 and 28 illustrate a first alternative embodiment of the stop pins, 126′, wherein the pins slide laterally to release the caddies. This embodiment would work for preventing and allowing removal, but would not work with the slots, as above for partial removal.

[0119] FIGS. 29 and 30 illustrate an alternative in which a door, 138, is used as a retaining mechanism. Where the hinge, 140, is aligned with a slot, 128, this approach would allow for partial extraction. Again, the door, and hinge, would have to be removed to allow for full extraction of the caddies. When closed, the door blocks movement of the caddies. This embodiment offers the further advantage of presenting a smooth, aesthetically pleasing appearance when the door is closed.

[0120] The faceplates and the spacer can be joined together by any of the various means known in the art. In the preferred embodiment these sections are releasably joined so that the spacer may be interchanged to adjust the capacity of the frame. Pins or screws have been found to work well. Stop pins, or other projections, and mating sockets may be molded into the parts to assist in alignments. In alternative embodiments it may not be necessary or even desirable to have the spacer removable. This enables an even broader range of assembly options including adhesives and ultrasonic or chemical welding. For this type of application the spacer need not be a separate piece and its function could be incorporated into one or both of the faceplates.

[0121] Operation

[0122] Several options exist for initial loading of the media into the frame. As illustrated in FIG. 31, one of the faceplates, 118 may be removed allowing the caddies, 108, to be removed. Media, 202, may then be loaded into the caddies, the caddies arranged in the desired order, and the caddies inserted into the frame. The faceplate is then replace and re-attached. This approach is available for all embodiments using a replaceable spacer and is the only option where neither the spacer nor the faceplates incorporate a loading slot. This is especially applicable where frames are manufactured with pre-selected sets of media as for a calendar.

[0123] FIG. 32 illustrates another option for loading media, 202, into the frame, 100. The caddies, 108, are partially extracted from the frame and the media is slid into the recess, 114, in the caddy. The caddy is then slid back into the frame and secured with the stop pin or other mechanism provided in the embodiment. Depending on the configuration of the loading slot, as discussed above, the caddies may be loaded simultaneously, in groups, or one at a time by rotating through the position(s) aligned with the loading slot(s).

[0124] With the caddies loaded, they may be moved between the available viewing positions in a sequential manner. FIG. 33 illustrates a first sequence of counter-clockwise movement of the caddies, proceeding from the top of the figure downward. Initially, the left stack holds caddies A, B, & C and the right stack hold caddies D & E. The media facing the top of caddies A & D is viewable from the top of the frame and the media facing the bottom of caddies C & E is viewable from the bottom of the frame. (Of course the frame would typically be positioned vertically for viewing.)

[0125] In the second step, the move of caddy C from the left stack to the right stack has been started. Note that the lower left hand pressure plate remains in contact with the caddy until it has intruded into the right stack and contacted the right hand pressure plate. In this manner a caddy always has pressure applied to it, maintaining stability and control of the caddy and retaining the media in the caddy. Where retaining clips are not used in the caddy, the media fits loosely within the recess and is retained there by the pressure plate or the adjacent caddy in the stack. The design of the preferred embodiment is such that the moving caddy overlaps the end caddy in the stack and captures its media within the recess before the moving caddy contacts the pressure plate and lifts it off of the end caddy. In this manner, the media is always positively retained by either a caddy or the pressure plate. Note also that the caddy has displaced the gate upward and has slid underneath the lowest caddy on the right side, displacing it upward. This demonstrates the interaction of the bevels on the caddies and the shape of the gate.

[0126] As the movement continues in the third and fourth steps, the caddy contacts the right hand pressure plate and displaces it downward, inserting itself between the pressure plate and the stack. As the caddy moves off the left hand pressure plate, that plate moves into contact with caddy B which becomes the new bottom caddy on the left hand stack.

[0127] At step 5, the move has been completed with caddy C now on the right hand stack. Caddies A & D are still viewable from the top of the frame, but now caddies B & C are viewable from the bottom.

[0128] Steps 6 through 9 continue the counterclockwise movement by shifting caddy D from the top of the right hand stack to the top of the left hand stack. A the end of this sequence, Caddies D and E are viewable from the top of the stack and caddies B & C are viewable from the bottom. The process can be continued indefinitely, cycling the caddies through the available viewing positions in sequence. Note that the media facing the top of the caddies (as illustrated) will always be viewable from the top of the frame and the media facing the bottom of the caddies will always be viewable from the bottom of the frame. In the configuration shown, the five caddies hold ten discrete pieces of media (or media surfaces) and can display four of them simultaneously.

[0129] FIG. 34 illustrates a similar sequence to that of FIG. 33 but in the opposite direction. Clearly, at any point the user may change the direction of rotation to access any particular piece of media that they desire.

[0130] As FIG. 35 illustrates, a caddy may also be slid back and forth between stacks rather than sequencing through the caddies as in the previous sequences. The multiple viewing positions and ease of movement provided by the inventive frame offers the user significant flexibility in what media to display and in what combinations. Additional combinations are available by removing the media and reloading it into the caddies in a different order.

[0131] Alternative Embodiments

[0132] The inventive media frame has been described above primarily as storing and presenting media which is viewable by the human eye. This functionality can be extended to other types of media without departing from the principles of the invention. One such application is to substitute caddies adapted to hold CD-ROM (or DVD) discs for audio, video, or data storage. The viewing positions would then be adapted to make the discs available to a disc drive capable of reading and/or writing the discs. The frame would then be used with a disc drive system incorporating as many disc drives as there are viewing positions. Each drive would comprise a means for rotating the disc and a read and/or write head for accessing the information on the disc. Preferably the drive could interface with the disc while the disc remains in position within the caddy. This approach would simplify the loading and access of a related set of discs as a unit rather than handling the individual discs separately. An alternative embodiment of this application would allow for caddies to be partially or mostly ejected from the ends of the frame, where they could be accessed by additional disc drives, effectively increasing the number of viewing positions.

[0133] While the preferred form of the invention has been disclosed above, alternative methods of practicing the invention are readily apparent to the skilled practitioner. The above description of the preferred embodiment is intended to be illustrative only and not to limit the scope of the invention.

Claims

1) A media display frame having at least one viewing position and internal storage for additional items of media, comprising:

(a) a first faceplate defining a first of said viewing positions, comprising an opening defined in said first faceplate;

(b) a second opposing, faceplate, aligned with and parallel and connected to said first faceplate; whereby said faceplates define an internal cavity therebetween;

(c) a first pressure plate within said cavity, connected to one of said faceplates substantially aligned with said first viewing position; and

(d) first spring means for urging said first pressure plate toward the opposite of said faceplates;

whereby the media items are captured within said cavity by said first pressure plate in a first stack with the media item nearest said first faceplate visible through said first viewing position opening.

2) The media display frame of claim 1 wherein:

(a) said first faceplate defines a second viewing position, comprising an opening defined in said first faceplate, adjacent said first viewing position;

(b) said frame comprises:

(i) a second pressure plate within said cavity, connected to one of said faceplates substantially aligned with said second viewing position; and

(ii) second spring means for urging said second pressure plate toward the opposite of said faceplates;

whereby additional media items are captured within said cavity by said second pressure plate in a second stack with the media item nearest said first faceplate visible through said second viewing position opening; and

(c) media items are movable between said stacks by sliding within said frame.

3) The media display frame of claim 2 further comprising gate means positioned within said cavity, between said stacks, which limits said media movement to a single item of media.

4) The media display frame of claim 2 wherein:

(a) said first pressure plate is connected to said first faceplate and said first spring means urges said first pressure plate toward said second faceplate;

(b) said second faceplate defines a third viewing position, comprising an opening defined in said second faceplate, substantially aligned with said first viewing position; and

(c) said frame comprises:

(i) a third pressure plate connected to said second faceplate substantially aligned with said third viewing position; and

(iii) third spring means for urging said third pressure plate toward said first faceplate

whereby said media items in said first stack are captured between said first and third pressure plates with the media item nearest said second faceplate visible through said third viewing position opening.

5) The media display frame of claim 2 further comprising a spacer, having a thickness, interposed between and connected to said faceplates, whereby said faceplates and said spacer define said internal cavity having a depth at least equal to said spacer thickness, and at least partially bounded by said spacer;

6) The media display frame of claim 5 wherein said spacer is removably connected to said faceplates whereby said spacer is replaceable by a second spacer having a different thickness to alter said cavity depth.

7) The media display frame of claim 6 wherein said spacer encloses said cavity on all sides and defines a loading slot, through said spacer, communicating with said cavity, through which one or more items of media can be inserted into said first stack.

8) The media display frame of claim 2 further comprising plural caddies, within said cavity, each adapted to hold at least one item of media, each of the media items is contained within one of said caddies, and said movement of media between said stacks is achieved by moving caddies.

9) The media display frame of claim 8 further comprising gate means positioned within said frame, between said stacks, which limits said movement to a single caddy.

10) The media display frame of claim 8 further comprising a spacer, having a thickness, interposed between and removably connected to said faceplates, whereby:

(a) said faceplates and said spacer define said internal cavity having a depth at least equal to said spacer thickness, and at least partially bounded by said spacer; and

(b) said spacer is replaceable by a second spacer having a different thickness to alter said cavity depth.

11) The media display frame of claim 10 wherein said spacer encloses said cavity on all sides and defines a loading slot, through said spacer, communicating with said cavity, through which no more than one caddy can be inserted into one of said stacks.

12) The media display frame of claim 10 wherein said spacer defines a loading slot, through said spacer, communicating with said cavity, through which one or more caddies can be inserted into and removed from one of said stacks and said frame further comprises a retaining mechanism to selectably block at least a part of said loading slot, whereby caddies can not pass through said loading slot.

13) The media display frame of claim 12 wherein each of said caddies defines a slot which cooperates with said retaining mechanism to allow said caddies to be partially withdrawn through said loading slot.

14) The media display frame of claim 8 wherein each of said caddies has a first edge positioned in the direction of said movement between stacks, comprising a first beveled surface and a second, opposite, edge comprising a second beveled surface, said first and second beveled surfaces adapted to cooperate to direct a moving caddy past a stationary caddy.

15) The media display frame of claim 14 wherein said pressure plates each has a beveled edge adapted to cooperate with said first beveled edge on said caddies to direct a moving caddy between said pressure plate and the associated stack.

16) The media display frame of claim 8 wherein said first faceplate further defines an access slot through said first faceplate, aligned with one edge of said caddies in said stacks, whereby said caddies can be manipulated through said access slot to accomplish said movement between stacks.

17) The media display frame of claim 8 wherein said second faceplate defines at least one mounting slot adapted to receive a mounting device for supporting said display frame.

18) A media display frame having plural viewing positions and internal storage for additional media, comprising:

(a) a first faceplate defining first and second adjacent viewing positions, each comprising an opening defined in said first faceplate;

(b) a second faceplate, aligned with and parallel to said first faceplate, defining a third viewing position, comprising an opening defined in said second faceplate, substantially aligned with said first viewing position;

(c) a spacer, having a thickness, interposed between and removably connected to said first and second faceplates, whereby said faceplates and said spacer define an internal cavity having a depth at least equal to said spacer thickness, and at least partially bounded by said spacer and whereby said spacer is replaceable by a second spacer having a different thickness to alter said cavity depth;

(d) plural pressure plates within said cavity, each connected to one of said faceplates, and substantially aligned with at least one of said viewing positions;

(e) spring means connected to and urging said pressure plates inward; and

(f) plural caddies, positioned within said cavity, each adapted to hold at least one item of media;

whereby some of the caddies are captured within said cavity in a first stack between two of said pressure plates with the caddy nearest said first faceplate visible through said first viewing position opening and with the caddy nearest said second faceplate visible through said third viewing position opening;

whereby some of the caddies are captured within said cavity in a second stack by two of said pressure plates with the caddy nearest said first faceplate visible through said second viewing position opening; and

whereby the caddies are movable between said stacks by sliding within said frame.

19) The media display frame of claim 18 further comprising gate means positioned within said frame, between said stacks, which limits said movement to a single caddy.

20) The media display frame of claim 18 wherein said spacer encloses said cavity on all sides and defines a loading slot, through said spacer, communicating with said cavity, through which no more than one caddy can be inserted into one and removed from one of said stacks and said frame further comprises a retaining mechanism to selectably prevent caddies from passing through said loading slot.

21) The media display frame of claim 18 further comprising at least one sleeve adapted to receive an item of media and adapted to be received by one of said caddies.

22) A media display frame having one viewing position and internal storage for additional items of media, comprising:

(a) a first faceplate defining said viewing position, comprising an opening defined in said first faceplate;

(b) a second opposing, faceplate, aligned with and parallel and connected to said first faceplate; whereby said faceplates define an internal cavity therebetween;

(c) a first pressure plate within said cavity, connected to one of said faceplates substantially aligned with said first viewing position;

(d) first spring means for urging said first pressure plate toward the opposite of said faceplates;

(e) a second pressure plate within said cavity, connected to one of said faceplates; and

(f) second spring means for urging said second pressure plate toward the opposite of said faceplates;

whereby: some of the media items are captured within said cavity in a first stack by said first pressure plate with the media item nearest said first faceplate visible through said first viewing position opening; some of the media items are captured within said cavity in a second stack by said second pressure plate; and the media items are movable between said stacks by sliding within said frame.