Independent display device and optional display methods

Abstract

A free-standing, optionally securable display system comprising a base “(4)” wherein a security protrusion “(16) ” is attached to the base “(4)” wherein a lock and chain can be inserted through a security cavity “(18)” in the security protrusion “(16)” to enhance display device security from theft, an upright support member “(5)” joined to the base “(4),” a housing assembly comprised of a housing base “(6),” housing walls “(8),” housing rails “(22),” and transparent housing panels “(10)” joined to the support member “(5),” a partition “(12)” inserted into the panel cavity “(46)” created by joining the housing assembly members together whereby the partition “(12)” is pinned in and supported by housing assembly members, and a lid “(14)” supported by the housing assembly whereby the lid “(14)” rests on or is supported by the housing assembly.

Description

FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH

[0001] Not Applicable

SEQUENCE LISTING OR PROGRAM

[0002] Not Applicable

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] This invention relates to Card, Picture, or Sign Exhibition and more particularly to securable, standup sign holders and their optional methods of design.

[0004] Difficulties are generated by prior art ranging from extremes of permanent attachment on independent objects to menu holders, for example, which are too small and are completely unsecured on restaurant tables. Stability of any device generally requires a bulky design. The Universal Sign Holder is an exception and folds up efficiently but requires daily maintenance and transportation.

[0005] Prior art does not support optional unibody construction utility and design method, or allow necessary consumer choice where variety is an important and often necessary consideration in the marketplace. Most prior art display devices are constructed with a plurality of unnecessary independent parts resulting in dependent display device utility and design.

[0006] Other difficulties arise primarily with users having to individually manipulate letters to create information. Accordingly, “low-tech” display is not addressed satisfactorily in the marketplace or the prior art.

[0007] The high cost of digitally displaying and maintaining information with solar or gasoline-powered devices does not offer much functional advantage over individual letters manually pinned to or slotted into pre-configured rows. Easily rewriting personalized information or exchanging large-format, pre-printed messages for example is not afforded with the prior art examples discovered during investigation of this invention.

[0008] A vast majority of prior art does not emphasize security as a design method or utility claim in either interior or exterior locations. Weather-resistance is featured in several products but not in a temporary display device. The combination of both security and outdoor weather-resistance is not seen in any single display device without permanent installation of the device required.

[0009] Sign device illumination is configured for permanent fixtures and not incorporated into portable products with enhanced security from theft. One embodiment of the Independent Display Device combines ease of transport, ease of assembly, self-illumination from a DC battery, or an AC electrically powered illumination device. No prior art claims these features in one product and its design method.

[0010] With computers a preferred means of sharing data, transferring “low-tech” information quickly in building or office permanent display cases rarely happens. Photography and advertising are important marketplace display considerations to which the prior art does not address satisfactorily. This is especially true with digital information generated by a computer and a connected printer. Busy people too often ignore important information displayed on community bulletin boards in “break areas.” Distribution to employees at their desk or a mailbox location involves printing multiple copies with a waste factor and requires individual copies to be manually routed through a mail system.

[0011] Accordingly, replacing low-tech information on a moment's notice is not factored into the prior art devices discovered in the course of investigating this invention. More economical, commercial product design products are produced in the Independent Display Device and Optional Display Methods.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0012] The present invention relates to a partition for displaying documents so as to protect them from weather and still function for interior or exterior use such as construction sites, temporary roadwork areas, lobbies, offices, homes, parking lots, or anywhere information must be displayed with the trademarked name, “Personal Space, Parking Place” by Patrick Flynn.

[0013] Some of the more obvious design applications are mentioned herein in the interest of providing a full and complete disclosure of the unique properties of this previously unknown general-purpose article of manufacture. This product is initially designed for general use in a multiple business or convention environment where information can be changed rapidly and is useable for indoor or outdoor information display requirements and is suitable for ease of assembly and operation.

[0014] Thus it can be seen that the potential fields of use for this invention are myriad and the particular preferred embodiment described herein is in no way meant to limit the use of the invention to the particular field chosen for exposition of the details of the invention. It is to be understood from the outset that the scope of this invention is not limited to these fields or to the specific examples of potential uses presented hereinafter. A comprehensive listing of all the possible fields to which this invention may be applied is limited by the imagination and is therefore not provided herein.

DISCUSSION OF THE PRIOR ART

[0015] Devices for displaying documents and the like are old and well known in the art. Many such devices have been developed successfully. The following known prior art provides specific examples of the state of the art relating to understanding many of the optional design methods and actual utility of the invention described in this patent.

[0016] Smigelski's U.S. Pat. No. 1,700,383 describes a Street Sign. Emphasis of the design in FIG. 1, hinge (20) utilizes a separate component connected by the hinge component. The Street Sign is attached to independent objects by means of screws (17), for example to the base member (11) in FIG. 3. Data display Panels (7) are made stationary by use of a number of independent parts including the vertical upper end portion (31) of upwardly diverging supporting arms (32) which are fastened to the post (5). There are eight planes in the cover (21) of the Street Sign. While the post (50) is shown, a permanent base is not shown. Tracks are too narrow for displaying standard sized paper.

[0017] Shine's U.S. Pat. No. 3,931,689 describes an Illuminated Sign Housing Construction. Designed primarily for indoor use, the Illuminated Sign Housing Construction does not protect display material from adverse weather conditions and is permanent whereas the Independent Display Device can function temporarily.

[0018] Taub's U.S. Pat. No. 4,010,698 describes a Multi-Shelved Display Assembly. Representative temporary collapsible cardboard assemblies are represented by the Multi-Shelved Display Assembly. The Independent Display Device can also be made of other materials.

[0019] Ernst's U.S. Pat. No. 4,738,043 describes a Message Board. Pins (19) in FIG. 2 are means of attaching many individual letters to makeup a display message. The Message Board is not primarily designed to be an exterior product and adverse weather will probably affect the display material. Separate releasable tabs (30) in FIG. 2 are unnecessary in the Independent Display Device as normal manufacturing will allow panels to be supported in a cavity created by commercially accepted unibody manufacturing processes. No enhanced security from theft is offered by the Message Board. In its simplest embodiment the Independent Display Device utilizes scotch tape rather than magnets and pins as the means to attach a display message.

[0020] Dahl's U.S. Pat. No. 4,753,027 describes a Sign Holder. Sign is primarily designed to be mounted to other objects. Material display is limited to one side of the device.

[0021] McDonald's U.S. Pat. No. 4,793,083 describes a Sign Holder. This Sign Holder is not designed to attach to independent objects and enhanced security from theft is not offered. Display material is usually limited to sturdy exterior grade plastic or commercially printed applications with water-resistant coatings. Display material and the two panels (13) in FIG. 1 sit on special tracks. For the Independent Display Device its panels are supported by a base, support member or housing base.

[0022] Fast's U.S. Pat. No. 4,917,342 describes a Stand-Up Sign Holder. The Stand-Up Sign Holder is not designed to mount to independent object and results in no enhanced security from theft. Support arms are ridged whereas this utility feature is not required for strengthening the contemporary materials used in manufacturing the support members of the Independent Display Device. Bent angle of Stand-Up Sign Holder for securing material is not required for the Independent Display Device.

[0023] Farmer's U.S. Pat. No. 5,088,680 describes a Weighted Sign Base. Weigh for device stability comes from water or sand that is inconvenient to transport with the device. Incorporating additional weighted material into or eliminating weighted material from the structure is inconvenient. Display material itself must be weather-resistant. The weighted sign base does not accommodate 20-lb. paper from a computer without additional mounting or lamentation processes. Does not explicitly offer enhanced security from theft as a claim feature. A plurality of surfaces for the base should increase the cost of manufactured design and production expense. Maintenance of Weighted Sign Base material can not be done by just looking to see if a cavity is filled with an independent object.

[0024] Grunelsen III's U.S. Pat. No. 5,535,976 describes a Card Holder. Mounting of a Card Holder is through slot (15) in FIG. 1. No adverse weather protection is offered as this Card Holder is primarily an interior product. The Card Holder base is not primary meant to attach to another support object and does not offer enhanced security from theft.

[0025] Dunn's U.S. Pat. No. 5,623,778 describes a Weatherized Posting Board Assembly. This assembly does not freely standup on its own and must be secured by screws or other fastening devices to other objects. The Weatherized Posting Board Assembly is meant primarily for permanent installation.

[0026] Hsu's U.S. Pat. No. 5,644,859 describes a Billboard. Illumination utility is primarily designed for neon advertisements. Several embodiments of the Independent Display Device have illumination utility and design function in the base, support member, housing, housing wall, or lid components where the illumination device becomes an integral component.

[0027] Kenney's U.S. Pat. No. 5,857,791 describes a Print Holder. Mounting to other objects is not a utility or design consideration in this Print Holder. While a primary utility and design purpose personalized information is not protected from adverse environmental factors. While pieces (11) and (12) in FIG. 2 define a pocket (23) in the same figure, many embodiments of the Independent Display Device have a cavities loosely guiding partitions to stationary positions resting on housing bases which will provide the support necessary to eliminate any need of inserts (28a) and (28b) in FIG. 1.

[0028] Kulp et al. with their U.S. Pat. No. 6,003,827 describes a Universal Sign Holder. Mounting of the Universal Sign Holder to objects other than pre-configured universal signs is non-existent. As a result, enhanced security from theft is not apparent. Most road crews make special trips before a job begins and at the end of each day to install and pickup the Universal Sign Holder. Stability of Universal Sign Holder is questionable in severe winds or when large vehicle trucks drive by and tip it over.

[0029] Greenfield's U.S. Pat. No. 6,050,012 describes a Panel-Joining Bracket. Two panels are joined at approximately 45-degree angles to each other. Permanent information is displayed on panels (16) and (18) in FIG. 1. Panel-Joining Bracket panels and lid are permanent. There is no bottom to the Panel-Joining Bracket, usually permanently set into the ground with cement.

[0030] Together, these prior art claims constitute the basis of pre-existing design features for the Independent Display Device and Optional Display Methods. The utility of this invention results from the creative way these existing features are combined, eliminated, or combined and eliminated with innovative design methods and contemporary utility features.

SUMMARY AND OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0031] Therefore, it is an object of this invention to provide a display device of two, three, or four sides having self-supporting unibody construction utility and design for exterior use.

[0032] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character with optional bases, optional support members, optional housing bases, optional housing walls, optional housing rails, optional housing panels, and optional lid structures adapted for removable and securable mounting whereby a display device is obtained which can be rapidly assembled and reassembled or permanently connected without unnecessary screws, clips or other such fastening means.

[0033] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character having a means of eliminating screws, clips, hinges, or other such fastening means in the maintenance of a display device.

[0034] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character having a self-supporting unibody construction utility and design for interior use.

[0035] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character having reduced design surfaces whereby manufacturing design and costs are reduced.

[0036] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character having a means of supporting itself on a relatively level surface.

[0037] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character having the means of ease of transportability.

[0038] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character having separately manufactured components whereby consumers can assemble these components into temporary or permanent configurations.

[0039] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device option of the above character having housing options with the optional design ability to receive a plurality of housing bases, a plurality of housing sides, a plurality of housing rails, and a plurality of housing panels to support duplicate mounting of transparency or other material on said partition objects.

[0040] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character having the ability to display information created from transparency material mounted on a plurality of partitions spaced away from the display material so as not to damage it.

[0041] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character having the optional design ability to receive a plurality of bases, a plurality of support members, and a plurality of lids to accommodate said housing options.

[0042] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character having a plurality of cavities for venting heat buildup.

[0043] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character having cavities serving as tracks or guides for partitions to fit into.

[0044] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character having manufactured options of two parts whereby the partition is incorporated into the lid as one part and is a base comprised of said bases as the second part.

[0045] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character having optional removable partition objects and lids that are manufactured separately and function independently of the base.

[0046] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character eliminating the need for rubber seals for any water-proofing purposes in the panels of the invention.

[0047] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character having a means of receiving such common materials such as bricks or cinderblocks for stabilizing the invention.

[0048] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character having the means of simplicity of design and function in a base with unibody construction made of a plurality of materials such as plastic, wood, metals, composites, or combinations of two or more materials.

[0049] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device having a base constructed so that independent security assemblies are inserted through a base cavity so the base can be easily secured to independent objects as a means of enhancing security from theft.

[0050] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character having both means of ease of transportability and enhanced security from theft.

[0051] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character having the housing and the lid constructed to cooperate with independent security assemblies inserted through aligned cavities whereby the base, housing, and lid components function as one practical product so that theft protection is enhanced.

[0052] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character having a lid to protect a base comprised of a plurality of bases, a plurality of support members, a plurality of housing bases, a plurality of housing walls, a plurality of housing rails, a plurality of housing panels, and a plurality of lids.

[0053] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character having security cavities and security protrusions designed with manufactured utility so that a housing wall component can be secured to independent objects by inserting a lock through security cavities in security protrusions with corresponding openings in the lid.

[0054] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character having a plurality of housings with interior utility and design means so as to eliminate the security cavities and security protrusions on the housing walls and lid while still employing all optional Independent Display Device design and utility.

[0055] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character having a plurality of partition objects that are joined to a lid through a plurality of manufacturing processes as a means of providing fewer independent parts as a design configuration.

[0056] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character having a plurality of Independent Display Device selection so that when manufactured, consumer selection “is satisfied.”

[0057] Another object of this invention, as all consumers may not need, desire, or be able to afford ease of transport, ease of assembly, self-illumination with battery, electrically powered illumination devices options, or combinations of these features in one device, is to outline Independent Display Device optional consumer features and design permutations.

[0058] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character having less maintenance during installation of the display material.

[0059] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character having the means to easily receive and display information material such as paper for one example, as produced from computer printers, printing presses, commercially manufactured methods, or combinations of methods.

[0060] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character having a plurality of design configurations for the temporary installation of standard-sized advertising, art, photography, and other display materials as based on commonly accepted, commercial business, or printing industry standards whereby a plurality of Independent Display Device components cooperate in design to produce a plurality of display and support surfaces for said Independent Display Device components.

[0061] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character having the ability to display important information without the need to be connected to a computer network or email system provider.

[0062] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character having the ability to reduce duplication of information used in an office environment

[0063] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character having the ability to allow information to be changed on a moment's notice with the minimum effort of reprinting a page, removing a lid, removing the old material, removing a partition, attaching the new material to the partition with scotch-tape, replacing the partition, and then replacing the lid.

[0064] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character having an entire message printed out from a computer for example, and scotch taped to a partition.

[0065] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character having a plurality of housings accommodate an AC electrical illumination device in the housing unit along with its power cord in the housing, support member, and base.

[0066] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character having a plurality of housings accommodate a DC battery powering an illumination device in the housing and its power cord to the DC power supply in the base.

[0067] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character having the means of optional, device utility and design with a plurality of illumination devices connected to an AC electrical source or a plurality of DC battery power sources.

[0068] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character having ease of maintenance of the illumination device bulbs.

[0069] Another object of this invention is to provide a display device of the above character having a illumination device shielded by transparent or translucent material so that transparency material attached to a plurality of partitions does not touch the heat of the illumination device whereby the transparency material is not scorched or burned.

[0070] The preferred embodiment of the Independent Display Device and Optional Design Methods incorporates eight optional design parts which, when manufactured, interconnect to create a unibody product function of two or three parts depending on consumer choice. These eight design parts include a base, a support member, a housing base, two housing walls, two housing rails, two housing panels, a partition, and a lid.

[0071] By employing the readily assembled Independent Display Device described herein the Independent Display Device with its Optional Display Methods can be easily and quickly assembled and secured. Further, display material can be quickly and easily transferred, thereby simplifying many current prior art limitations. Furthermore, as all of the parts connect together, the Independent Display Device eliminates the need for independent fastening means required with permanent installation.

[0072] Since the prior art display devices fall into extremes of permanent mounting or its opposite, completely unsecured, freestanding devices many other means and methods of display are provided with this invention. The Independent Display Device and its Optional Display Methods offers an improvement, simplification, or improvement and simplification of each representative prior art reference cited herein. Accordingly, the invention comprises a product possessing the features, properties and relation of components exemplified in the product hereinafter described, with the scope of the invention indicated in the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0073] FIG. 1A shows the Independent Display Device in its preferred interior embodiment.

[0074] FIG. 1B shows an exploded view of the Independent Display Device in its preferred exterior embodiment.

[0075] FIG. 1C shows lid security for the Independent Display Device.

[0076] FIG. 1D shows Independent Display Device base security.

[0077] FIG. 1E shows base security and no lid.

[0078] FIG. 1F shows support member security for the Independent Display Device.

[0079] FIG. 1G shows Independent Display Device housing base security.

[0080] FIG. 1H shows housing wall security for the Independent Display Device.

[0081] FIG. 1I shows a lid security alternative.

[0082] FIG. 1J shows a possible base cavity configuration.

[0083] FIG. 1K shows another possible base cavity configuration.

[0084] FIG. 1L shows another possible base cavity configuration.

[0085] FIG. 1M shows another possible base cavity configuration.

[0086] FIG. 1N shows another possible base cavity configuration.

[0087] FIG. 1O shows another possible base cavity configuration.

[0088] FIG. 1P shows another possible base cavity configuration.

[0089] FIG. 1Q shows another possible base cavity configuration.

[0090] FIG. 1R shows the Independent Display Device with no lid and no panels.

[0091] FIG. 1S shows the Independent Display Device with a base AC light.

[0092] FIG. 1T shows the Independent Display Device with a base DC light.

[0093] FIG. 1U shows the Independent Display Device with a support member AC light.

[0094] FIG. 1V shows the Independent Display Device with a support member DC light.

[0095] FIG. 1W shows the Independent Display Device with a housing base AC light.

[0096] FIG. 1X shows the Independent Display Device with a housing base DC light.

[0097] FIG. 1Y shows the Independent Display Device with a housing wall AC light.

[0098] FIG. 1Z shows the Independent Display Device with a housing wall DC light.

[0099] FIG. 2A shows the Independent Display Device with transparent panels.

[0100] FIG. 2B shows the partition connected to the support member.

[0101] FIG. 2C shows the Independent Display Device with no lid and no support member.

[0102] FIG. 2D shows the Independent Display Device with no lid.

[0103] FIG. 2E shows the Independent Display Device with no support member.

[0104] FIG. 2F shows the Independent Display Device without panels.

[0105] FIG. 2G shows the Independent Display Device with no support member and no housing.

[0106] FIG. 2H shows the Independent Display Device with no base and no lid.

[0107] FIG. 2I shows the Independent Display Device with no base, no support member, and no panels.

[0108] FIG. 2J shows the Independent Display Device with no base and no support member.

[0109] FIG. 2K shows the Independent Display Device with no base.

[0110] FIG. 2L shows the Independent Display Device with no base and no housing.

[0111] FIG. 2M shows a base notch.

[0112] FIG. 2N shows a base fastener.

[0113] FIG. 2O shows a base notch and a support member fastener.

[0114] FIG. 2P shows double support member fasteners for the Independent Display Device.

[0115] FIG. 2Q shows a base notch and support member fasteners.

[0116] FIG. 2R shows a housing base notch.

[0117] FIG. 2S shows a support member notch.

[0118] FIG. 2T shows a support member groove.

[0119] FIG. 2U shows a housing base groove.

[0120] FIG. 2V shows a base groove.

[0121] FIG. 2W shows a lid groove.

[0122] FIG. 2X shows a lid notch.

[0123] FIG. 2Y shows a support member panel alternative for the Independent Display Device.

[0124] FIG. 2Z shows another support member panel alternative for the Independent Display Device.

[0125] FIG. 3A shows another support member panel alternative for the Independent Display Device.

[0126] FIG. 3B shows an Independent Display Device alternative.

[0127] FIG. 3C shows the Independent Display Device without a base and without support members.

[0128] FIG. 3D shows a lid notch overhang.

[0129] FIG. 3E shows a lid groove overhang.

[0130] FIG. 3F shows a support member partition.

[0131] FIG. 3G shows a housing and lid alternative.

[0132] FIG. 3H shows another housing and lid alternative.

[0133] FIG. 31 shows a base separate.

[0134] FIG. 3J shows another base separate.

[0135] FIG. 3K shows another base separate.

[0136] FIG. 3L shows a support member alternative.

[0137] FIG. 3M shows a lid alternative.

[0138] FIG. 3N shows another lid alternative.

[0139] FIG. 3O shows another lid alternative.

[0140] FIG. 3P shows a removable insert door.

[0141] FIG. 3Q shows a side view of the Independent Display Device.

[0142] FIG. 3R shows another side view of the Independent Display Device.

[0143] FIG. 3S shows another side view of the Independent Display Device.

[0144] FIG. 3T shows another side view of the Independent Display Device.

[0145] FIG. 3U shows another side view of the Independent Display Device.

[0146] FIG. 3V shows another side view of the Independent Display Device.

[0147] FIG. 3W shows an Independent Display Device with three sides.

[0148] FIG. 3X shows an Independent Display Device with four sides.

REFERENCE NUMERALS IN THE DRAWINGS

[0149] 1  4- Base  5- Support Member  6- Housing Base  8- Housing Wall 10- Housing Panel 12- Partition 14- Lid 16- Security Protrusion 18- Security Cavity 20- Base Cavity 22- Housing Rails 24- AC Illumination Device 26- AC Power Cord 28- DC Illumination Device 30- DC Power Source 32- DC Power Cord 34- Vent Hole 36- Insert Cavity 38- Insert Fastener 40- Groove 42- Notch 44- Solid Base Center Material 46- Panel Cavity 48- Insert Door 50- Door Slot

DETAILED DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION OF THE INVENTION AND ITS ALTERNATIVE EMBODIMENTS

[0150] Unique Independent Display Device utility and design are designated in the drawings primarily in terms of the invention's many unique design methods. Appropriately, material may be mounted to any component surface for temporary display purposes. These design methods are the basis of claiming uniqueness of the invention, improvement of the prior art, simplification, or improvement and simplification of the prior art.

[0151] The process of describing the Independent Display Device and Optional Design Methods is not exhausted by the figures represented in these drawings, as components in one drawing are optional or may substitute as an operational component in another drawing. This is said rather than creating the many mathematical permutations necessary to exhaustively designate the Independent Display Device.

[0152] FIGS. 1T-1Q and FIG. 3P provide many optional design configurations of the base (4) for example. The base (4) can be used as a foundation for Independent Display Device designs utilizing said base (4) in any of the submitted drawings. Various other objects, features, and attendant advantages of the present invention will become more fully appreciated as the same becomes better understood when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which the reference characters designate the same or similar parts throughout the several views.

[0153] Embodiments of the present invention are described below. The invention will be further described by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings. A more efficient way to describe uniqueness in some drawings is accomplished by designating what is dissimilar in the preferred embodiments of FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B or the other drawings that represent alternative embodiments, as appropriate.

[0154] These examples represent the best ways of putting the invention into practice currently known to the applicant though they are not the only ways in which this could be achieved as other polygonal or curved configurations are limited only by imagination. For this reason, the foundation for many optional design methods is shown in the drawings. Approximate proportional sizing of each Independent Display Device component is presented in the accompanying drawings.

[0155] FIG. 1A shows the Independent Display Device in its preferred interior embodiment wherein the invention consists of a rectangular lid (14), a rectangular partition (12) and an assembly comprised of four rectangular boxes joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes into a solid, polygonal-shaped base (4) designed to rest on the floor. Said base (4) is joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to a cylindrical support member (5). Said support member (5) is joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to a rectangular housing base (6). Said housing base (6) is joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to two, approximately parallel rectangular housing walls (8) facing each other wherein said housing walls (8) are joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the opposite edges of each housing base (6).

[0156] The housing walls (8) join by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to two, approximately parallel rectangular housing rails (22) wherein each housing rail (22) spans the space between two housing walls (8) to join by commonly accepted manufacturing processes the top edge of each housing wall (8) wherein each housing rail (22) is approximately parallel to each other and to the housing base (6).

[0157] The rectangular junctions between the housing base (6), two housing walls (8), and each housing rail (22) create two rectangular panel cavities (46). Two transparent, rectangular housing panels (10) seal by commonly accepted manufacturing processes each approximately parallel side of the panel cavity (46). The housing base (6), housing wall (8), and housing rail (22) seal by commonly accepted manufacturing processes the housing panels (10) along two approximately parallel lines to make the housing assembly water-resistant. The housing panels (10) and housing rails (22) prevent the partition (12) from falling. The partition (12) is supported by the housing base (6).

[0158] FIG. 1B shows an Exploded View of the Independent Display Device in its preferred exterior embodiment wherein the invention consists of a lid (14), a partition (12), and an assembly comprised of four rectangular boxes joined into a base (4) designed to rest on the floor comprised of a cylindrical insert cavity (36) and a cylindrical security protrusion (16) with a cylindrical security cavity (18). The base (4) is joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to a support member (5). Said support member (5) is joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to a housing base (6). Said housing base (6) is comprised of a plurality of cylindrical insert fasteners (38) and a plurality of cylindrical vent holes (34). The housing base (6) is joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to two, approximately parallel housing walls (8) facing each other wherein said housing walls (8) are joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the opposite edges of each housing base (6).

[0159] The housing walls (8) join by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to two, approximately parallel rectangular housing rails (22) wherein each housing rail (22) spans the space between two housing walls (8) to join the top edge of each housing wall (8) wherein each housing rail (22) is approximately parallel to each other and to the housing base (6).

[0160] The two rectangular junctions between the housing base (6), two housing walls (8), and each housing rail (22) create a panel cavity (46). Two transparent housing panels (10) seal by commonly accepted manufacturing processes each approximately parallel side of the panel cavity (46). The housing base (6), housing wall (8), and housing rail (22) seal by commonly accepted manufacturing processes the housing panel (10) along two approximately parallel lines to each housing rail (22) to make the assembly water-resistant. The housing panels (10) and housing rails (22) prevent the partition (12) from falling. The partition (12) is supported by the housing base (6). An independent security device such as a lock and metal chain may be inserted through the security cavity (18) to attach the Independent Display Device to an independent object in order to enhance security from theft.

[0161] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 1A, FIG. 1C shows a security protrusion (16) with its security cavity (18) joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the housing wall (8). Joined to the lid (14) by commonly accepted manufacturing processes is a security protrusion (16) with a security cavity (18). A lid (14) rests on and overhangs the two housing rails (22). The partition (12) is inserted in the panel cavity (46). An independent security device such as a lock and metal chain may be inserted through the security cavity (18) to attach the Independent Display Device to an independent object in order to enhance security from theft.

[0162] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 1B, FIG. 1D shows a plurality of housing panels (10) joined together by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to create a panel cavity (46) wherein the partition (12) slides into the panel cavity (46) and is supported by the bottom and side surfaces of the housing panels (10). A lid (14) rests on and covers the two housing panels (10) and the partition (12).

[0163] FIG. 1E shows FIG. 1D without a lid (14).

[0164] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 1A, FIG. 1F shows the security protrusion (16) with its security cavity (18) joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the support member (5).

[0165] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 1A, FIG. 1G shows the security protrusion (16) with its security cavity (18) joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the upper housing base (6). The base (4) with an insert cavity (36) joins by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to a support member (5). The upper housing base (6) with an insert cavity (36) joins by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the lower housing base (6). The lower housing base (6) with an insert cavity (36) joins by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to a support member (5). The housing base (6) is separated into upper and lower components wherein the upper housing base (6) and lower housing base (6) are configured with a plurality of insert cavities (36) to receive the support member (5). The two housing bases (6) and support member (5) are joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes. Additionally, each housing base (6) is configured with a plurality of cylindrical vent holes (34).

[0166] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 1A, FIG. 1H shows the security protrusion (16) with its security cavity (18) joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the housing wall (8).

[0167] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 1A, FIG. 1H shows the security protrusion (16) with its security cavity (18) joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the lid (14).

[0168] FIG. 1J shows four rectangular base cavities (20) in approximate perpendicular relationship joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to each side of an approximately square base center (44). Centered within the base center (44) is an insert cavity (36). The support member (5) is joined or inserted into the insert cavity (36) by commonly accepted manufacturing processes.

[0169] In addition to the appropriate descriptions in FIG. 1O, FIG. 1K shows the security protrusion (16) with its security cavity (18) joined to the base (4) designed to rest on the floor.

[0170] FIG. 1L shows a base (4) with its base cavity (20) joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to a support member (5). Optional components are joined to the support member (5) by commonly accepted manufacturing processes according to appropriate Independent Display Device and Optional Display Methods.

[0171] FIG. 1M shows FIG. 1L with the security protrusion (16) and the security cavity (18) joined to the base (4) by commonly accepted manufacturing processes.

[0172] FIG. 1N shows FIG. 1J with two base cavities (20) joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to two sides of the base center (44) in an approximate north-south alignment. Within the base center (44) is an insert cavity (36) whereby the support member (5) is joined to an insert cavity (36) by commonly accepted manufacturing processes.

[0173] In addition to the appropriate descriptions for FIG. 1N, FIG. 1O shows the security protrusion (16) with its security cavity (18) joined to the base (4) by commonly accepted manufacturing processes.

[0174] FIG. 1P shows FIG. 1J with two base cavities (20) joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to two sides of the base center (44) in an approximate east-west alignment. Within the base center (44) is an insert cavity (36) to which the support member (5) is joined to the insert cavity (36) by commonly accepted manufacturing processes.

[0175] FIG. 1Q shows FIG. 1P with the security protrusion (16) with its security cavity (18) joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the base (4).

[0176] FIG. 1R eliminates the lid (14), panels (10), the panel cavity (46) and vent holes (34) in FIG. 2.

[0177] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 1A, FIG. 1S shows a polygonal AC illumination device (24) with its polygonal AC power cord (26) joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the base (4). Additionally, the security protrusion (16) with its security cavity (18) is joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the base (4).

[0178] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 1A, FIG. 1T shows a polygonal DC illumination device (28) with its polygonal DC power cord (32) and rectangular DC power source (30) joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the base (4). Additionally, the security protrusion (16) with its security cavity (18) is joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the base (4).

[0179] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 1S, FIG. 1U shows an AC illumination device (24) and its AC power cord (26) joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the support member (5).

[0180] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 1T, FIG. 1V shows a DC illumination device (28) with its DC power cord (32) and DC power source (30) joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the support member (5).

[0181] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 1S, FIG. 1W shows an AC illumination device (24) with its AC power cord (26) joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the housing base (6).

[0182] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 1T, FIG. 1X shows a DC illumination device (28) with its DC power cord (32) and DC power source (30) joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the housing base (6).

[0183] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 1S, FIG. 1Y shows an AC illumination device (24) with its AC power cord (26) joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the housing wall (8).

[0184] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 1T, FIG. 1Z shows a DC illumination device (28) with its DC power cord (32) and DC power source (30) joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the housing wall (8).

[0185] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 1R, FIG. 2A shows the Independent Display Device with two panels (10) joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the housing base (6), two housing walls (8), and each housing rail (22) to create a panel cavity (46). The partition (12) is supported by the housing base (6). The housing rails (22) prevent the partition (12) from falling.

[0186] FIG. 2B shows the partition (12) joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the support member (5) wherein the support member (5) is joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the insert cavity (36). Housing panels (10) join together by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to create a panel cavity (46). The housing panels (10) are joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the support member (5). The sides and bottom of the housing panels (10) join by commonly accepted manufacturing processes the partition (12). A lid (14) rests on and overlaps the top edge of the panels (10) and partition (12).

[0187] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 1R, FIG. 2C shows the Independent Display Device without a support member (5).

[0188] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 2C, FIG. 2D shows the independent display device with a plurality of transparent panels (10) and the panel cavity (46). The partition (12) is supported by the housing base (6).

[0189] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 2D, FIG. 2E shows the independent display device with a lid (14).

[0190] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 2C, FIG. 2F shows the independent display device with a lid (14).

[0191] FIG. 2G shows the Independent Display Device with a lid (14) which joins by commonly accepted manufacturing processes or rests on a base (4) designed to rest on the floor.

[0192] FIG. 2H shows FIG. 1A without a base (4) and without a lid (14).

[0193] FIG. 2I shows FIG. 2F without a base (4), without a support member (5), without panels (10), and without a panel cavity (46).

[0194] FIG. 2J shows FIG. 2I with panels (10) and a panel cavity (46).

[0195] FIG. 2K shows FIG. 1A without a base (4).

[0196] FIG. 2L shows the support member (5) joined to the lid (14).

[0197] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 1A, FIG. 2M the base (4) is comprised of an upper base (4) and a lower base (4) joined to each other by commonly accepted manufacturing processes.

[0198] The face of each base (4) has a plurality of rectangular notches (42) in the upper base (4) which joins by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to a plurality of rectangular grooves (40) in the lower base (4) face. Additionally, the support member (5) joins by commonly accepted manufacturing processes into an insert cavity (36) in each base (4).

[0199] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 1A, FIG. 2N shows the support member (5) joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to an insert cavity (36) in the base (4). The insert cavity (36) allows a rectangular insert fastener (38) to join by commonly accepted manufacturing processes the base (4) and support member (5).

[0200] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 2M, FIG. 2O shows the use of an insert cavity (36) in the housing base (6) whereby an insert fastener (38) joins by commonly accepted manufacturing processes the support member (5) and housing base (6).

[0201] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 2N, FIG. 2P shows the base (4) with an insert cavity (36) whereby an insert fastener (38) joins by commonly accepted manufacturing processes the support member (5) and housing base (6).

[0202] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 2O, FIG. 2Q shows the support member (5) and base (4) joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to an insert cavity (36) in the base (4).

[0203] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 1B, FIG. 2R shows an upper housing base (6) with its insert cavity (36) joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to a lower housing base (6) with its insert fastener (38). The security protrusion (16) with its security cavity (18) are not shown in this drawing.

[0204] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 1A, FIG. 2S shows a lower support member (5) joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the base (4). An upper support member (5) is joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to housing base (6). The upper support member (5) and a lower support member (5) are joined together by commonly accepted manufacturing processes through a notch (42).

[0205] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 2S, FIG. 2T shows the notch (42) position on the support member (5) reversed.

[0206] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 1A, FIG. 2U shows the base (4) with an insert cavity (36) joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the support member (5). A lower housing base (6) with its notch (42) is joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to a groove (40) in the upper housing base (6). The support member (5) is joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the lower housing base (6).

[0207] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 2M, FIG. 2V shows each notch (42) and groove (40) in the upper base (4) and the lower base (4) reversed.

[0208] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 2F, FIG. 2W shows the support member (5) joined to the base (4) and housing base (6) by commonly accepted manufacturing processes. Additionally, the lid (14) rests on and overhangs the housing walls (8). The use of a notch (42) in the lid (14) joins by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the housing wall (8) with a groove (40).

[0209] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 2W, FIG. 2X shows the notch (42) and groove (40) positions reversed.

[0210] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 1R, FIG. 2Y shows an Independent Display Device without housing rails (22). The lid (14) rests on and overhangs the two housing walls (8). The partition (12) is prevented from falling by the overhanging lid (14). The partition (12) is supported by the housing base (6). An additional partition (12) joins by commonly accepted manufacturing processes the base (4) and housing base (6).

[0211] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 2Y, FIG. 2Z shows an additional partition (12) joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the base (4) and housing base (6).

[0212] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 2Z, FIG. 3A shows an additional partition (12) joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the base (4) and housing base (6).

[0213] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 3A, FIG. 3B shows an Independent Display Device embodiment wherein the lid (14) rests on and overhangs the two housing walls (8). The display surface of the partition is functionally joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the lid (14) whereby the lid (14) now serves as the component to which display material is mounted.

[0214] FIG. 3C shows the Independent Display Device with a housing base (6) designed to rest on the floor, a partition (12), and a lid (14). The lid (14) rests on and overhangs the housing base (6) and partition (12) whereby the lid (14) prevents the partition (12) from falling. The partition (12) is supported by the housing base (6).

[0215] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 1A, FIG. 3D shows an Independent Display Device embodiment without panels (10) and without a panel cavity (46). A notch (42) in the lid (14) joins by commonly accepted manufacturing processes with a groove (40) in the base (4). The lid (14) rests on and overhangs the housing walls (8) and partition (12) whereby the lid (14) prevents the partition (12) from falling.

[0216] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 3D FIG. 3E reverses the positions of the notch (42) and the groove (40).

[0217] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 3A, FIG. 3F shows a plurality of partitions (12) joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the support member (5).

[0218] FIG. 3G shows the lid (14) resting on and overhanging the housing wall (8) designed to rest on the floor and partition (12) whereby the lid (14) prevents the partition (12) from falling. The partition (12) is supported by the housing wall (8).

[0219] FIG. 3H shows the housing wall (8) designed to rest on the floor and the lid (14) designed to rest on the housing wall (8). The partition is functionally joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the lid (14) whereby the lid (14) now serves as the component to which display material is mounted. The partition (12) is supported by the housing wall (8).

[0220] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 3H, FIG. 3I shows the base (4) supporting or joining by commonly accepted manufacturing processes the housing wall (8). The display surface of the partition is functionally joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the lid (14) whereby the lid (14) now serves as the component to which display material is mounted.

[0221] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 3I, FIG. 3J shows the Independent Display Device without a lid. With commonly accepted manufacturing processes the housing wall (8) rests on, joins, overhangs, or unites with combinations of these processes to a base (4) designed to rest on the floor. A partition (12) is inserted between the housing rails (22) whereby the housing rails (22) prevent the partition (12) from falling.

[0222] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 1R, FIG. 3K shows the Independent Display Device without the security protrusion (16) and the security cavity (18). The housing base (6) rests on or joins by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to an additional base (4) and support member (5). The partition (12) is inserted between the housing rails (22) whereby the housing rails (22) prevent the partition (12) from falling.

[0223] FIG. 3L shows an Independent Display Device alternative design similar to FIG. 1R without the security protrusion (16) with its security cavity (18). The partition (12) is inserted between the housing rails (22) whereby the housing rails (22) prevent the partition (12) from falling. The partition (12) is supported by the housing wall (8).

[0224] FIG. 3M shows the Independent Display Device design similar to FIG. 1A without housing walls (8), without housing panels (10), without a panel cavity (46), and without housing rails (22). The lid (14) rests on and overhangs the top of the housing base (6) whereby the lid (14) prevents the partition (12) from falling. The base (4) with its insert cavity (36) joins by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the support member (5). The housing base (6) joins by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the support member (5).

[0225] In addition to appropriate descriptions for FIG. 3M, FIG. 3N shows the partition (12) functionally joined by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the lid (14) whereby the lid (14) function as the component to which display material is mounted.

[0226] FIG. 3O shows the Independent Display Device with a support member (5) and a lid (14) both designed to rest on the floor whereby the lid (14) rests on, overhangs, joins, attaches, or unites with combinations of these processes by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the support member (14).

[0227] In addition to the appropriate descriptions for FIG. 1L, FIG. 3P shows the Independent Display Device with a rectangular door slot (50) in the top of base (4) wherein an optional removable insert door (48) inserts and rests on the lower section of the base (4).

[0228] FIG. 3Q shows a side view of the Independent Display Device with a lid (14) fitting over the four housing walls (8) and two housing rails (22). Each housing rail (22) spans the length between each separate pair of housing walls (8) wherein said housing walls (8) join by commonly accepted manufacturing processes the housing base (6) at each of its four corners. The partition (12) is prevented from falling over by a design cavity in the lid (14) and the four housing panels. The partition (12) is supported by the housing base (6).

[0229] Additionally, a support member (5) attaches by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to the base (4) designed to rest on the floor with its insert cavity (36). A housing base (6) attaches to a support member (5). Each housing wall (8) attaches to the housing base (6) by commonly accepted manufacturing processes. Each housing rail (22) attaches by commonly accepted manufacturing processes to a separate pair of housing walls (22). The housing base (6), housing rail (22), and two housing walls (22) create a panel cavity (46) wherein the housing panel (10) is joined to each other by commonly accepted manufacturing processes.

[0230] In addition to the appropriate descriptions for FIG. 3Q, FIG. 3R eliminates two housing rails (22).

[0231] In addition to the appropriate descriptions for FIG. 3Q, FIG. 3S shows the Independent Display device with two open sides. In this embodiment, two sides of the housing are not protected by housing panels (10) whereby two of the four housing panels (10) are eliminated.

[0232] In addition to the appropriate descriptions for FIG. 3Q, FIG. 3T shows the Independent Display Device with four housing rails (22) joined together. The partition (12) is prevented from falling over by a design cavity in the lid (14) and the four housing panels (10). Additionally, the lid (14) inserts into the design cavity created by the housing rails (22).

[0233] In addition to the appropriate descriptions for FIG. 3S, FIG. 3U shows the design cavity in the lid (14) whereby the partition (12) is prevented from falling. Additionally, the lid (14) inserts into the design cavity created by the housing rails (22).

[0234] In addition to the appropriate descriptions for FIG. 3U, FIG. 3V eliminates the housing rails (22).

[0235] In addition to the appropriate descriptions for FIG. 3Q, FIG. 3W shows the Independent Display Device with three housing walls (8), three housing panels (10), and three housing rails (22) joined together by appropriate manufacturing processes which create a third panel cavity (46). A third partition (12) is prevented from falling over by a design cavity in the lid (14). The partition (12) is supported by the housing base (6). Additionally, the lid (14) inserts into the design cavity created by the three housing rails (22).

[0236] In addition to the appropriate descriptions for FIG. 3W, FIG. 3X shows the Independent Display Device with four housing walls (8), four housing panels (10), and four housing rails (22) joined together by appropriate manufacturing processes which create a fourth panel cavity (46). A fourth partition (12) is prevented from falling over by a design cavity in the lid (14). The partition (12) is supported by the housing base (6).

[0237] In a useful form of the invention the base (4) is rectangular in cross-section, but other polygonal or curved configurations are equally feasible. In a useful form of the invention the support member (5) is cylindrical in cross-section, but other polygonal or curved configurations are equally feasible.

[0238] In a useful form of the invention the housing base (6) is rectangular in cross-section, but other polygonal or curved configurations are equally feasible. In a useful form of the invention the housing wall (8) is rectangular in cross-section, but other polygonal or curved configurations are equally feasible. In a useful form of the invention the housing panel (10) is rectangular in cross-section, but other polygonal or curved configurations are equally feasible.

[0239] In a useful form of the invention the partition (12) is rectangular in cross-section, but other polygonal or curved configurations are equally feasible. In a useful form of the invention the lid (14) is rectangular in cross-section, but other polygonal or curved configurations are equally feasible.

[0240] In a useful form of the invention the security protrusion (16) is cylindrical in cross-section, but other polygonal or curved configurations are equally feasible. In a useful form of the invention the security cavity (18) is cylindrical in cross-section, but other polygonal or curved configurations are equally feasible.

[0241] In a useful form of the invention the base cavity (20) is rectangular in cross-section, but other polygonal or curved configurations are equally feasible. In a useful form of the invention the housing rail (22) is rectangular in cross-section, but other polygonal or curved configurations are equally feasible.

[0242] In a useful form of the invention an AC illumination device (24) is polygonal in cross-section, but other polygonal or curved configurations are equally feasible. In a useful form of the invention an AC power cord (26) is polygonal in cross-section, but other polygonal or curved configurations are equally feasible.

[0243] In a useful form of the invention a DC illumination device (28) is polygonal in cross-section, but other polygonal or curved configurations are equally feasible. In a useful form of the invention a DC power source (30) is rectangular in cross-section, but other polygonal or curved configurations are equally feasible. In a useful form of the invention a DC power cord (32) is polygonal in cross-section, but other polygonal or curved configurations are equally feasible.

[0244] In a useful form of the invention a vent hole (34) is cylindrical in cross-section, but other polygonal or curved configurations are equally feasible.

[0245] In a useful form of the invention an insert cavity (36) is rectangular in cross-section, but other polygonal or curved configurations are equally feasible. In a useful form of the invention an insert fastener (38) is rectangular in cross-section, but other polygonal or curved configurations are equally feasible.

[0246] In a useful form of the invention a groove (40) is rectangular in cross-section, but other polygonal or curved configurations are equally feasible. In a useful form of the invention a notch (42) is rectangular in cross-section, but other polygonal or curved configurations are equally feasible.

[0247] In a useful form of the invention a base center (44) is square in cross-section, but other polygonal or curved configurations are equally feasible. In a useful form of the invention a panel cavity (46) is rectangular in cross-section, but other polygonal or curved configurations are equally feasible.

[0248] In a useful form of the invention an insert door (48) is rectangular in cross-section, but other polygonal or curved configurations are equally feasible. In a useful form of the invention a door slot (50) is rectangular in cross-section, but other polygonal or curved configurations are equally feasible.

[0249] Advantages

[0250] From the description above, a number of advantages of the Independent Display Device and Optional Display Methods become evident including:

[0251] (a) Non-permanent attachment to independent objects.

[0252] (b) Stability of the Independent Display Device without bulky design.

[0253] (c) Efficient daily maintenance and transportation.

[0254] (d) Optional unibody construction utility and design method.

[0255] (e) Consumer choice satisfaction.

[0256] (f) Elimination of unnecessary independent parts.

[0257] (g) Elimination of the dependent nature of supplemental display device parts.

[0258] (h) Elimination of difficulties arising from individually manipulating letters to create information.

[0259] (i) Configuration of low-tech display for the millennium marketplace.

[0260] (j) Creating alternatives to the high cost of digitally displaying and maintaining information with solar or gasoline-powered devices.

[0261] (k) Elimination of manual pinning or slotting letters into pre-configured rows.

[0262] (l) Easy rewrite of personalized information or exchange of large-format, pre-printed messages for example.

[0263] (m) Enhanced security from theft.

[0264] (n) Enhanced weather-resistance in a temporary display device.

[0265] (o) Combining both security and outdoor weather-resistance without permanent installation of a display device.

[0266] (p) Portable sign device illumination with enhanced security from theft.

[0267] (q) Combining ease of transport, ease of assembly, and self-illumination from a DC battery or an AC electrically powered illumination device.

[0268] (r) Quickly displaying low-tech information in a building or office location without the use of permanent display cases.

[0269] (s) Securely displaying computer-generated material, photography and store advertising and protecting them from damage.

[0270] (t) Eliminating display of important information on community bulletin boards in “break areas” or lobby areas.

[0271] (u) Avoiding the distribution of important information to employees at their desk or a mailbox location.

[0272] (v) Elimination of printing multiple copies of important information with its waste factor and manual routing through a mail system.

[0273] (w) Replacement of low-tech information on a moment's notice.

[0274] Operation Of The Preferred Embodiment—FIG 2

[0275] When manufactured by commonly accepted processes, the Independent Display Device and Optional Display Methods' preferred embodiment incorporates three basic assembled parts:

[0276] (1) a base with a security protrusion whereby the Independent Display Device is attached to independent objects with a lock and chain, for example, inserted through a security cavity. The base joins to a support member. A housing base joins to the support member. Two housing walls join to the housing base. Two housing rails span the distance between two housing walls wherein the two housing rails join to the housing walls whereby two housing panels create a water-resistant panel cavity plane whereby each housing panel is sealed in the panel cavity created by the housing base, housing walls, and one housing rail.

[0277] (2) a partition of sufficient height to which display material is attached to the partition faces. The partition inserts in the panel cavity. Standard 8.5×11-inch paper stock produced from a computer in a home or office environment is attached with scotch-tape to opposing sides of the partition inserted into a recessed panel cavity. The housing rails and lid prevent the partition from falling. The housing base supports the partition. The seal of the joined housing base, housing wall, and housing panel protects the display material. The length and the width of the partition are of sufficient length and width to fit snuggly against the inside face of each housing wall and stand between each inside housing rail face.

[0278] (3) a lid which fits over the housing rails and partition whereby the display device is made water-resistant.

[0279] Conclusion, Ramifications And Scope Of Invention

[0280] Thus the reader will see that the Independent Display Device and Optional Display Methods has a highly utilitarian manufactured and diverse design characteristics and is a simple low-tech display device design to provide a secure and weather-resistant environment for computer-generated paper products.

[0281] While this above description contains many specifications, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention, but rather as exemplification of basic Independent Display Device components as well as the one preferred embodiment thereof. Many other variations are possible as several separate drawings for the base component illustrate, for example. All drawings considered collectively the reader should conclude the Independent Display Device provides:

[0282] (a) Non-permanent attachment to independent objects.

[0283] (b) Stability of the Independent Display Device without bulky design.

[0284] (c) Efficient daily maintenance and transportation.

[0285] (d) Optional unibody construction utility and design method.

[0286] (e) Consumer choice satisfaction.

[0287] (f) Elimination of unnecessary independent parts.

[0288] (g) Elimination of the dependent nature of supplemental display device parts.

[0289] (h) Elimination of difficulties arising from individually manipulating letters to create information.

[0290] (i) Configuration of low-tech display for the millennium marketplace.

[0291] (j) Creating alternatives to the high cost of digitally displaying and maintaining information with solar or gasoline-powered devices.

[0292] (k) Elimination of manual pinning or slotting letters into pre-configured rows.

[0293] (l) Easy rewrite of personalized information or exchange of large-format, pre-printed messages for example.

[0294] (m) Enhanced security from theft.

[0295] (n) Enhanced weather-resistance in a temporary display device.

[0296] (o) Combining both security and outdoor weather-resistance without permanent installation of a display device.

[0297] (p) Portable sign device illumination with enhanced security from theft.

[0298] (q) Combining ease of transport, ease of assembly, and self-illumination from a DC battery or an AC electrically powered illumination device.

[0299] (r) Quickly displaying low-tech information in a building or office location without the use of permanent display cases.

[0300] (s) Securely displaying computer-generated material, photography and store advertising and protecting them from damage.

[0301] (t) Eliminating display of important information on community bulletin boards in “break areas” or lobby areas.

[0302] (u) Avoiding the distribution of important information to employees at their desk or a mailbox location.

[0303] (v) Elimination of printing multiple copies of important information with its waste factor and manual routing through a mail system.

[0304] (w) Replacement of low-tech information on a moment's notice.

[0305] Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be determined not by the embodiments illustrated, but by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

Claims

1) A Independent Display Device with a plurality of components for viewing or attaching material comprising:

(a) a plurality of bases, a plurality of support members, a plurality of partitions, and a plurality of lids manufactured of material of certain shape whereby said components are a means to support, rest on, or attach objects of weight and mass wherein said components join in design or utility other said components at certain angles,

(b) a plurality of bases manufactured of material of certain shape whereby said bases are solid or have a plurality of cavities whereby said bases are a means to support objects of weight and mass wherein said objects are a means to produce stability in said bases,

(c) a plurality of housings manufactured of material of certain shape comprised of a plurality of housing bases, a plurality of housing walls, a plurality of housing rails, and a plurality of housing panels whereby said housings are a means to support, rest on, or attach objects of weight and mass wherein said housings join in design or utility other said components at certain angles,

(d) said components whereby said components are optional in said Independent Display Device design wherein said components optionally interconnect for efficient retail packaging, consumer assembly, and manufactured utility,

2) an Independent Display Device of claim 1 configured to have a plurality of fastening elements manufactured of material of certain shape whether said fastening elements join or attach in utility or design said bases, said support members, said housing bases, said housing walls, said housing rails, or said lids whereby said fastening elements are a means to secure, join, or attach said components to each other by means of commonly accepted manufacturing processes,

3) an Independent Display Device of claim 1 configured to have a plurality of cavities whereby said cavities are a means of adapting or supporting a removable door, revealing natural light illumination, or allowing air circulation within said Independent Display Device,

4) an Independent Display Device of claim 1 comprising a plurality of illumination devices attached to said components whereby said components are a means to support, fasten,or attach said illumination devices to said Independent Display Device wherein said illumination devices are a means of artificial light illumination of said Independent Display Device,

5) an Independent Display Device of claim 1 configured to have:

(a) said bases,

(b) said support members wherein said support members join in design or utility said bases at angles,

(c) said housings wherein said lids join in design or utility said support members at angles,

6) an Independent Display Device of claim 1 configured to have:

(a) said bases,

(b) said support members wherein said support members join in design or utility said bases at angles,

(c) said housings wherein said lids join in design or utility said support members at angles,

7) an Independent Display Device of claim 1 configured to have said bases join in design or utility said housings at angles,

8) an Independent Display Device of claim 1 configured to have:

(a) said bases manufactured of material of certain shape wherein said housing bases join in design or utility said components at certain angles,

(b) said housing walls manufactured of material of certain shape wherein said housing walls join in design or utility said components at angles,

(c) said housing rails manufactured of material of certain shape wherein said housing rails join in design or utility said walls at angles,

(d) said housing lids wherein said housing lids join in design or utility said housing rails at angles,

9) an Independent Display Device of claim 1 configured to have:

(a) said bases,

(b) said lids wherein said lids join in design or utility said bases at angles,

10) an Independent Display Device of claim 1 configured to have:

(a) said housings,

(b) said support members wherein said support members join in design or utility said support members to said housings at angles,

11) an Independent Display Device of claim 1 configured to have said housings join in design or utility said lids at angles,

12) an Independent Display Device of claim 1 configured to have:

(a) said support members wherein said support members join in design or utility said housings at angles and whereby said support members are a means to support or attach to said housings,

(b) said housings,

(c) said lids wherein said lids join in design or utility said housings at angles,

13) an Independent Display Device of claim 1 configured to have said support members join in design or utility said lids at angles,

14) an Independent Display Device of claim 1 configured to receive said components whereby said components are configured as male, female, or male and female junctures:

(a) wherein said components have a plurality of grooves, a plurality of slots, a plurality of slits, a plurality of notches, a plurality of nipples, or a plurality of holes, or a plurality of planar members having two or more opposed major faces whereby said components are a means of attaching, mating, joining, resting on, supporting, or attaching in design or utility said components to additional said components,

(b) to support said components wherein said components contain said grooves, said slots, said slits, said notches, said nipples, said holes, or said planar members having two or more opposed major faces whereby said components are a means of mating, resting on, or attaching in design or utility said components to additional said components,

(c) whereby said components are connected in design or utility by means of a plurality of adhesives, other commonly accepted manufacturing processes, or combinations of adhesives and other commonly accepted manufacturing processes,

15) an Independent Display Device of claim 1 configured to have a plurality of display objects manufactured of material of certain shape whether said display objects comprise said bases, said support members, said housing bases, said housing walls, said housing rails, said housing rails, said partitions, or said lids whereby:

(a) said display objects are a means to display material,

(b) said display objects are a means to connect, overhang, insert into, protrude from, rest on, or join in design or utility to other said components or said display objects,

16) an Independent Display Device of claim l configured to have said bases, said support members, said housing bases, said housing walls, said housing rails, said housing panels, said partitions, or said lids whereby said components are:

(a) a means to secure, join, or attach said components to each other by means of commonly accepted manufacturing processes,

(b) optional.