Front-loading picture frame

Abstract

A front-loading picture frame includes a base frame that has a front surface and a back surface. A metal sheet made of a magnetically attracting metal is attached to the base frame. The magnetically attracting metal sheet will draw a first magnet toward the metal. A clear lens is attached to the front surface of the base frame. The lens has an interior surface that faces the base frame. A first magnet is attached to the clear lens. The first magnet is attracted to the metal sheet by a magnetic force. The magnetic force holds the clear lens tightly in position on the front surface of the base frame.

Description

BACKGROUND

[0001] The present invention relates to picture frames. More particularly the present invention pertains to picture frames that use magnets to hold the frame and lens together.

[0002] Known picture frames are loaded from the backside. The back covering is removed for access to the area for the picture. The picture is placed upon the clear flat glass lens and the back cover is reattached. The lens does not need to be removed from the picture frame to insert the picture. The back cover is held in place by staples, nails, sliders, or other attachment devices.

[0003] A lens that lies flat against the artwork is used for flat prints, but some times a flat lens is not appropriate, particularly when the artwork is a raised three-dimensional piece. Clear viewing boxes that are placed upon the artwork from the front are sometimes used for expensive or three-dimensional pieces of artwork that are hung on a wall. The box also accentuates the presentation of the artwork. The artwork is accessed from the front by removing the viewing box, rather than from the back by removing the back covering. The viewing boxes are attached to the backing surface and picture by clips, hinges, or other mechanical attachment devices.

[0004] The boxes can be clear plexiglass with an opening on the back-side. The opening accepts the artwork, which is on a backing surface. The front-side of the viewing box is a sufficiently large area to provide full viewing of the artwork. The remaining sides raise the front side away from the wall and picture. The remaining sides typically are a half-inch to five inches wide, which raises the front-side a similar distance away from the wall and print.

[0005] Wall hung art seldom has a surface that varies more than 5 inches in depth. Artwork pieces or architectural models of greater height that are set on tables can be enclosed in boxes that are of even greater height to accommodate the artwork. Viewing boxes are primarily designed for large three-dimensional artwork pieces. Viewing boxes are not appropriate for smaller picture frames that are used in the home. Viewing boxes are to expensive and cumbersome for enclosing smaller personal pictures, which are usually less than 10 inches by 13 inches in size.

[0006] Mechanical attachment devices or clasps that are used on back-loaded picture frames are not visible from the front, thus the attachment devices do not detract from the appearance of the picture. Attachment devices are used to connect the backing to the frame. The backing holds the picture firmly in place against the clear lens. Visual impression of the picture could be effected if mechanical attachment devices were used for a front-loaded picture frame, because of the potential visibility of the attachment devices. A front-loaded picture frame should have attachment devices that do not detract from the viewing of the picture.

[0007] Mechanical attachment devices, such as mechanical clasps can bend, distort and break. Each time a picture is inserted into the picture frame the mechanical clasp is rotated or bent. After continued usage the mechanical clasp may bend due to mechanical stresses and metal fatigue. A distorted attachment device affects the secure assembly of the picture frame.

[0008] Therefore there is a need for a front-loading picture frame. The front-loading picture frame should have a method of attaching the clear lens to the frame backing that is aesthetically appealing. The clear lens should be quickly and easily removed for insertion of the picture into the front-loading picture frame. The attachment method should not be susceptible to mechanical stresses and metal fatigue.

SUMMARY

[0009] An objective of the present invention is a picture frame where the picture can be inserted from the front surface of the frame. Support stands for the frame are often attached to the back surface, thus the support stand may interfere with insertion of the picture through the back surface. When the base frame is attached to a box or container, access to the back surface can be restricted and inconvenient. Easy access is an advantage of a picture frame loaded from the front.

[0010] Another objective of the front-loading picture frame is having an attachment method that does not require mechanical clasps that can bend, distort and break. An advantage of using magnetic force as an attachment method is the elimination of mechanical stresses and metal fatigue. The magnetic force remains relatively consistent over time, which keeps the components of the picture frame in tight and proper positional alignment.

[0011] Another objective of the front-loading picture frame is providing an attachment method that does not require mechanical clasps that project from the perimeter of the lens. Using mechanical clasps on the exterior surface of the lens could visually detract from the aesthetic presentation of the picture. An advantage of using metal and magnets for an attachment device is that the metal and magnets can be attached to the interior surface of the lens or imbedded directly into the lens. It is not necessary for the magnet or metal to protrude beyond the perimeter of the lens.

[0012] A front-loading picture frame includes a base frame that has a front surface and a back surface. A metal sheet made of a magnetically attracting metal is attached to the base frame. The magnetically attracting metal sheet will draw a first magnet toward the metal. A clear lens is attached to the front surface of the base frame. The lens has an interior surface that faces the base frame. A first magnet is attached to the clear lens. The first magnet is attracted to the metal sheet by a magnetic force. The magnetic force holds the clear lens tightly in position on the front surface of the base frame. The lens is formed from a clear material that allows substantially unobstructed viewing of the graphic image.

[0013] A graphic image, such as a photograph, can be securely positioned between the base frame and the lens. The lens is held firmly against the base frame by the magnetic force attraction between the first magnet and the metal sheet. The graphic image is pressed tightly between the front surface of the base frame and the interior surface of the lens. The positioning between the two surfaces, along with the pressure of the magnetic force, keeps the graphic image flat without creases or sagging.

[0014] The strength of a person's hand can overcome the magnetic force, so that the lens can be removed from the base frame. The base frame has an aperture, which is a narrow opening. The aperture travels from the back surface through the base frame to the front surface. A slender object or a finger is inserted through the aperture and forcibly pressed against the interior surface of the lens, so that the magnetic force is overcome. In this manner the lens is detached from the base frame.

[0015] A second magnet can be used as a specific embodiment of the metal sheet. The second magnet is removably attached to the back surface of the base frame. The first magnet is magnetically attracted to the second magnet by a magnetic force. This arrangement alleviates the need for an aperture when removing the lens from the base frame. The second magnet or second magnets can be grasped with a hand and pulled to remove the second magnet from the back surface of the base frame. The strong magnetic force attraction between the first magnet and the second magnet is eliminated, so that the lens can be easily removed from the base frame.

[0016] In one embodiment, the metal sheet is a sheet of metal covering all or a portion of the front of the base frame. The first magnet is attached to the interior surface of the lens. The placement of the metal sheet on the front surface is such that the first magnet and the metal sheet will be in close proximity, so that there is a strong magnetic attraction between the first magnet and the metal sheet. There can be several corresponding sets of metal sheets and magnets.

[0017] The front-loading picture frame can be stood on its side and placed on the flat horizontal surface of a table or other furniture. A support stand is included to maintain the upright positioning of the base frame. Alternately, the front-loading picture frame can be hung on a vertical wall surface. The graphic image can be any piece, print or image that is typically mounted in a picture frame. Photographs, prints, drawings and other artwork are included.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment the front-loading picture frame also includes a container having a top surface. The container forms a cavity with an opening. The base frame is attached to the container at about the top surface. The base frame serves as a lid or cover for the container. The front-loading picture frame having a container is often used as a jewelry box. The opening provides access to the cavity for storing jewelry and other personal items.

[0019] Although the present invention is briefly summarized, a fuller understanding of the invention can be obtained from the following drawings, detailed description and appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0021] FIG. 1 is a cutaway side view.

[0022] FIG. 2 is a front view of the lens.

[0023] FIG. 3 is a cutaway side view of the front-loading picture frame with a container.

[0024] FIG. 4 is a top view of the front-loading picture frame with a container.

[0025] FIG. 5 is a side view of the front-loading picture frame with a hinged.

[0026] FIGS. 6a through 6j illustrate various embodiments of the first magnet in combination with the metal sheet or a second magnet.

[0027] FIG. 7 is a side view with magnets imbedded into the base frame.

[0028] FIG. 8 is a front view of the lens, similar to the lens shown in FIG. 2.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0029] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a front-loading picture frame 10 includes a base frame 12 that has a front surface 14, a back surface 16 and four sides 17. A metal sheet 18 made of a magnetically attracting metal is attached to the base frame 12. A clear lens 22 is attached to the front surface 14 of the base frame 12. Four first magnets 20 are positioned one at each of the four corners of the lens 22. The magnetically attracting metal sheet 18 draws the first magnets 20 toward the metal sheet 18. The lens 22 has an interior surface 24 that abuts the base frame 12 and an exterior surface 26 that faces outward.

[0030] The four first magnets 20 are attached to the clear lens 22 at about the corners of the lens 22. The first magnets 20 are imbedded into the lens 22 near the interior surface 24. Each first magnet 20 is attracted to the metal sheet 18 by a magnetic force 28. The magnetic force 28 holds the clear lens 22 firmly in position on the front surface 14 of the base frame 12. The metal sheet 18 substantially covers the front surface 14 of the base frame 12. The magnetic force 28 can be overcome by the pulling or pushing strength of a person's hand, so that the lens 22 can be removed from the base frame 12.

[0031] A graphic image 30 can be securely positioned between the base frame 12 and the lens 22. The lens 22 is held firmly against the base frame 12 by the magnetic force 28 attraction between the first magnet 20 and the metal sheet 18. The graphic image 30 is pressed tightly between the front surface 14 of the base frame 12 and the interior surface 24 of the lens 22. The positioning between the two surfaces 14, 24, along with the pressure of the magnetic force 28, keeps the graphic image 30 flat without creases or sagging, which provides a pleasant visual presentation of the graphic image 30.

[0032] The base frame 12 has an aperture 32 that provides an opening. The aperture 32 travels from the back surface 16 through the base frame 12 to the front surface 14. A slender object 102 or a finger can protrude through the aperture 32. The object 102 can forcibly press against the interior surface 24 of the lens 22, which overcomes the magnetic force 28. In this manner the lens 22 is detached from the base frame 12. One hand can grasp the lens 22 so that it does not fall, as it is detached from the base frame 12. More than one aperture 32 can be provided, particularly when several strong first magnets 20 are placed around the perimeter 38 or corners of the lens 22.

[0033] Alternately, a suction cup (not shown) held in a hand can be adhered to the lens 22 for removing the lens 22. The lens 22 has a flat smooth exterior surface 26 that is easily suctioned by a suction cup. The suction seal between the suction cup and the lens 22 must be strong enough to overcome the magnetic force 28 between the first magnet 20 and the metal sheet 18. Another method of removing the lens 22 from the base frame 12 is the placement of one or more small knobs 34 on the exterior surface 26 of the lens 22. The knob 34 can be grasped by the hand, then pulled to remove the lens 22 from the base frame 12.

[0034] In one embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the metal sheet 18 substantially covers the front of the base frame 12. The metal sheet 18 can be any color. Adhesives, pins or other attachment methods are used to secure the metal sheet 18 to the base frame 12. The placement of the metal sheet 18 on the front surface 14 is such that the first magnet 20 and the metal sheet 18 will be in close proximity when the lens 22 is attached to the base frame 12. The size, quantity and placement of the first magnet 20 corresponds to the size, quantity and placement of the metal sheet 18.

[0035] There can be one or more sets of corresponding metal sheets 18 and first magnets 20, as depicted in FIGS. 6a-6j. When the metal sheet 18 is a single sheet of metal then a single first magnet 20 or several strategically placed first magnets 20 are used. Alternately, more than one metal sheet 18 can be used. Four small metal sheets 18 can be placed at about the corners of the front surface 14. The metal sheets 18 can be about the same size and about the same location on the front surface 14, as are the first magnets 20 that are depicted attached to the lens 22 in FIG. 2.

[0036] The first magnets 20 or metal sheets 18 should be located near the perimeter 38 of the lens 22, where viewing of the graphic image 30 is not interfered. The base frame 12 is positioned behind the graphic image 30, so placement of the first magnets 20 or metal sheets 18 in the base frame 12 does not interfere with the viewing of the graphic image 30. Positioning the first magnets 20 or metal sheets 18 where they are hidden by the graphic image 30 can improve aesthetic appearance. The magnetic force 28 can slightly dissipate when traveling through the graphic image 30, thus placement of the first magnets 20 and/or metal sheet 18 near the perimeter 38 of the lens 22 and the corresponding outer edges of the base frame 12 can improve the magnetic force 28 attraction between the first magnet 20 and the metal sheet 18, even though they may be slightly visible.

[0037] The first magnet 20 and a second magnet 21 can be used. The second magnet 21 is used as the metal sheet 18, thus the second magnet 21 serves as a variation of the metal sheet 18. All of the arrangements that can be done with the first magnet 20 and the metal sheet 18, can also be done with the first magnet 20 and the second magnet 21. FIGS. 6a-6j depict some of the possible arrangements. The north-pole and south-pole of the first magnet 20 and the second magnet 21 are positioned so that they create a magnetic attraction between the first magnet 20 and the second magnet 21. The attraction of the magnetic force 28 between the first magnet 20 and the second magnet 21 removably attaches the lens 22 to the base frame 12.

[0038] The lens 22 is formed from a clear material that allows substantially unobstructed viewing of the graphic image 30. The lens 22 can be manufactured from plexiglas, plastic, glass, or other clear materials. The lens 22 material should be relatively free of impurities that may hinder the clarity of viewing through the lens 22. Although not shown, an anti-glare coating can be added to the exterior surface 26 of the lens 22 to reduce distracting reflections. Plexiglas, plastic and other moldable materials can be injection molded to create the clear lens 22.

[0039] In an embodiment not shown, the base frame 12 is made from a magnetically attracting metal. The base frame 12 also functions as the metal sheet 18. The first magnet 20 attached to the lens 22 is magnetically attracted to the base frame 12, so there is no requirement for a separate metal sheet 18. In this embodiment the metal sheet 18 is the same composition as, and an integral part of the base frame 12.

[0040] The front-loading picture frame 10 can be stood on a side 17 and placed on the flat horizontal surface of a table or other furniture. When the base frame 12 has a sufficient depth the base frame 12 will support the upright position of the front-loading picture frame 10. For added stability a support stand 40 is included to maintain the upright positioning of the base frame 12. Alternately, the front-loading picture frame can be hung on a vertical wall surface (not shown). The graphic image 30 can be any piece, print or image that is typically mounted in a picture frame. The graphic image 30 may be a photograph, print, drawing or other artwork.

[0041] Referring to FIGS. 3, 4 and 5, in a preferred embodiment the front-loading picture frame also includes a container 42 having a top surface 44. The container 42 forms a cavity 46 with an opening 48. The opening of the cavity 46 is at the top surface 44 of the container 42. The base frame 12 is attached to the container 42 at about the top surface 44. The base frame 12 serves as a lid or cover for the container 42.

[0042] FIG. 3 illustrates the usage of the first magnet 20 and the second magnet 21 aligned where a magnetic attraction occurs between the first magnet 20 and the second magnet 21. The attraction of the magnetic force 28 between the first magnet 20 and the second magnet 21 removably attaches the lens 22 to the base frame 12. The base frame 12 is lifted to provide access to the back surface 16. The first magnets 20 are imbedded into the lens 22. The second magnets 21 are removably attached to the back surface 16 of the base frame 12. The second magnets 21 can be easily grasped and removed from the back surface 16. The magnetic force 28 attraction between the first magnet 20 and the second magnet 21 is overcome, such that the lens 22 and base frame 12 separate to provide access to the graphic image 30.

[0043] FIG. 5 shows hinges 50, which connect the container 42 to the base frame 12. The base frame 12 is rotated via the hinges 50 to provide access to the interior of the container 42. An aperture 32 provides access for separating the lens 22 from the base frame 12. The front-loading picture frame 10 having a container 42 is often used as a jewelry box 52. Although not shown, the back surface 16 of the base frame 12 could be attached to a side 17′ of the container 42. A lid with or without a graphic image 30 is then used to cover the opening 48.

[0044] Jewelry boxes are frequently manufactured with a picture inscribed or attached to the cover of the jewelry box. With the present invention the picture is front-loaded onto the front surface 14 of the base frame 12. Front-loading is much easier than attempting to load the graphic image 30 through the back surface 16 of the base frame 12. The back surface 16 of the base frame 12 is attached to the container 42 by hinges 50, so inserting the graphic image 30 through the back surface 16 would be cramped and difficult.

[0045] The person can select their own picture that has sentimental memories. The personalized picture is then easily front-loaded into the base frame 12, which serves as the cover of the music box. The aperture 32 travels from the back surface 16 to the front surface 14 of the base frame 12. The aperture 32 allows separation of the lens 22 from the base frame 12 for easy access to the graphic image 30. Lifting the hinged base frame 12 allows easy access to the apertures 32 for detaching the lens 22 and inserting the picture.

[0046] Referring to FIGS. 6a. through 6j, there are various permutations of arrangements available between the metal sheet 18 and the first magnet 20. Either the first magnet 20 or the metal sheet 18 can be attached by attaching to a surface or attached by imbedding into the lens 22 or base frame 12. Possibilities include where the metal sheet 18 is attached to the interior surface 24 or imbedded into the lens 22. The first magnet 20 is attached to the front surface 14 of the base frame 12 or imbedded into the base frame 12. Alternately, the metal sheet 18 is attached to the front surface 14 of the base frame 12 or imbedded into the base frame 12, while the first magnet 20 is imbedded into the lens 22 or attached to the interior surface 24 of the lens 22. The metal sheet 18 can be a second magnet 21, as specifically illustrated in FIGS. 6i and 6j.

[0047] FIG. 6a shows the metal sheet 18 attached to the interior surface 24, with the first magnet 20 attached to the front surface 14. FIG. 6b shows the metal sheet 18 attached to the interior surface 24, with the first magnet 20 imbedded into the base frame 12. FIG. 6c shows the metal sheet 18 imbedded into the lens 22, with the first magnet 20 attached to the front surface 14. FIG. 6d shows the metal sheet 18 imbedded into the lens 22, with the first magnet 20 imbedded into the base frame 12.

[0048] FIG. 6e illustrates the first magnet 20 attached to the interior surface 24, with the metal sheet 18 attached to the front surface 14. FIG. 6f shows the first magnet 20 attached to the interior surface 24, with the metal sheet 18 imbedded into the base frame 12. FIG. 6g shows the first magnet 20 imbedded into the lens 22, with the metal sheet 18 attached to the front surface 14. FIG. 6h shows the first magnet 20 imbedded into the lens 22, with the metal sheet 18 imbedded into the base frame 12.

[0049] A first magnet 20 and a second magnet 21 can be used. The second magnet 21 is used as the metal sheet 18, thus the second magnet 21 serves as a form of the metal sheet 18. FIG. 6I depicts a first magnet 20 attached to the lens 22, with the first magnet 20 attached to the interior surface 24. The second magnet 21 is attached to the base frame 12, by imbedding the second magnet 21 into the base frame 12.

[0050] FIG. 6j depicts a first magnet 20 attached to the lens 22, by imbedding the first magnet 20 into the lens 22. The second magnet 21 is attached to the base frame 12, by imbedding the second magnet 21 into the base frame 12. The second magnet 21 is a specific embodiment of the metal sheet 18.

[0051] FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate the combination of first magnets 20 with second magnets 21. Four first magnets 20 are imbedded into the lens 22. Second magnets 21 are imbedded into the base frame 12. The magnetic attraction between the first magnets 20 and second magnets 21 can be overcome by grasping the lens and pulling with two hands.

[0052] The front-loading picture frame 10 allows the graphic image 30 to be inserted from the front surface 14. Access to the front surface 14 is convenient with no restriction caused by the support stand 40 or the container 42. The first magnet 20 and metal sheet 18 provide an attachment method that does not bend, distort or break like mechanical clasps can. Mechanical stresses and metal fatigue are dramatically reduced or eliminated. The first magnet 20 and metal sheet 18 do not protrude beyond the perimeter 38 of the lens 22, so aesthetic appearance is improved.

[0053] Although the present invention has been described in considerable detail with regard to the preferred versions thereof, other versions are possible. Therefore, the appended claims should not be limited to the descriptions of the preferred versions contained herein.

Claims

1. A front-loading picture frame comprising:

a) a base frame having a front surface, a back surface and a side;

b) a metal sheet made of a magnetically attracting metal attached to the base frame;

c) a clear lens attached to the front surface, wherein the lens has an interior surface; and

d) a first magnet attached to the clear lens, wherein the first magnet is attracted to the metal sheet by a magnetic force;

wherein the magnetic force removably attaches the lens to the base frame, whereby a graphic image can be securely positioned between the base frame and the lens.

2. The front-loading picture frame of claim 1, further comprising a container having a top surface and a cavity with an opening, wherein the base frame is attached to the top surface of the container, thereby forming a lid for the container.

3. The front-loading picture frame of claim 1, wherein the base frame further has an aperture, wherein the aperture travels from the back surface to the front surface, whereby an object can protrude through the aperture and the object can forcibly press against the interior surface of the lens, thereby overcoming the magnetic force thus detaching the lens from the base frame.

4. The front-loading picture frame of claim 3, wherein the metal sheet is imbedded into the base frame.

5. The front-loading picture frame of claim 3, wherein the metal sheet is attached to the front surface of the base frame.

6. The front-loading picture frame of claim 5, wherein the first magnet is attached to the interior surface of the lens.

7. The front-loading picture frame of claim 6, wherein the metal sheet substantially covers the front surface of the base frame.

8. The front-loading picture frame of claim 6, wherein the metal sheet is a second magnet, whereby the first magnet is magnetically attracted to the second magnet.

9. The front-loading picture frame of claim 8, wherein the front-loading picture frame is stood on the side for vertical presentation

10. A front-loading picture frame comprising:

a) a base frame having a front surface and a back surface;

b) a clear lens attachable to the base frame, wherein the lens has an interior surface;

c) a metal sheet made of a magnetically attracting metal attached to the lens; and

d) a first magnet attached to the base frame, wherein the first magnet is attracted to the metal sheet by a magnetic force;

wherein the magnetic force removably attaches the lens to the base frame, whereby a graphic image can be securely positioned between the base frame and the lens.

11. The front-loading picture frame of claim 10, wherein the base frame further has an aperture, wherein the aperture travels from the back surface to the front surface, whereby an object can protrude through the aperture and the object can forcibly press against the interior surface of the lens, thereby overcoming the magnetic force thus detaching the lens from the base frame.

12. The front-loading picture frame of claim 11, wherein the metal sheet is attached to the interior surface of the lens.

13. The front-loading picture frame of claim 11, wherein the metal sheet is imbedded into the lens.

14. The front-loading picture frame of claim 10, further comprising a container having a top surface and a cavity with an opening, wherein the opening is located at the top surface, wherein the base frame is attached to the top surface of the container, thereby forming a lid for the container.

15. The front-loading picture frame of claim 14, wherein the metal sheet is attached to the interior surface of the lens.

16. The front-loading picture frame of claim 14, wherein the metal sheet is imbedded into the lens.

17. A front-loading picture frame comprising:

a) a base frame having a front surface and a back surface;

b) a clear lens attachable to the base frame, wherein the lens has an interior surface;

c) a first magnet attached to the lens; and

d) a second magnet attached to the base frame, wherein the first magnet is magnetically attracted to the second magnet by a magnetic force;

wherein the magnetic force removably attaches the lens to the base frame, whereby a graphic image can be securely positioned between the base frame and the lens.

18. The front-loading picture frame of claim 17, wherein the second magnet is removably attached to the base frame.

19. The front-loading picture frame of claim 18, wherein the second magnet is removably attached to the back surface of the base frame.

20. The front-loading picture frame of claim 19, further comprising a container having a top surface and a cavity with an opening, wherein the opening is located at the top surface, wherein the base frame is attached to the top surface of the container, thereby forming a lid for the container.