Re-usable, adaptable framing device

Abstract

A framing device for two-dimensional (planar) and relief artwork that is functional and decorative, and can be used multiple times and in various ways for personal or professional exhibition purposes. The framing device is generally a wall support for planar and relief art and supporting materials, and is designed for any size artwork. Modular elements connect together and can be used in multiple combinations to provide a structure that supports an art package for display. An art package generally consisting of art and supporting materials generally rests between the corner unit lip and a back support structure. Corner units connect to each other or to extenders with adjoining hardware, and optional fasteners, dust masks, shims, risers, and support bars provide more adaptation choice. This support system frames artwork and makes it ready to hang for display. The framing system elements are variable, adaptable, and re-usable.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of a provisional patent application 60/544,637, filed Feb. 14, 2004; this application claims the priority date of that prior application.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to framing devices for two-dimensional planar and relief artwork and, more particularly, to a picture frame that is re-usable, versatile, and adaptable.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Two-dimensional and relief artwork need to be protected and viewed upright and, therefore, framed in a manner that provides these functions. Artists who create two-dimensional or relief artwork have a continual need of framing their work for exhibitions and prospective sales because of their continuous professional activity. Yet this challenge of displaying artwork is met by anyone interested in offering art for view, whether it is the professional or amateur artist who creates an artwork, the professional gallery or museum worker, or someone who has collected a work of art.

The growth of the paper and print industries combined with an increased awareness of the arts have provided a way for many people to create art or to enjoy the ability to collect art. Such proliferation and accessibility accentuate the growing need for framing two-dimensional and relief artwork for proper viewing.

There are a number of major challenges that are faced due to the need to frame planar and relief art, and these challenges are compounded when the task involves multiple works of art. One of the biggest challenges posed is the cost. The conventional solution to framing artwork has been the enclosed framing device or picture frame. Framing art is a constant source of expense for artists especially, and is often paid out-of-pocket by an artist prior to sales. The need for framing artwork increases with every piece of art created. There is a cost to the acquisition of each picture frame and if another picture frame is needed, there is another cost for another such framing device because each picture frame can only fit artwork having the same dimensions as the enclosed measurement.

A second challenge is storage, and for the professional artist, the artwork is all too often packed up from being exhibited and returned to the artist's studio to await the prospects of a future sale. Often, an artist, owner, or related professional can decide to change the artwork on view, but with every artwork framed, the storage needs increase. The conventional picture frame is bulky to store, whether storing an unused frame or framed work that is not being exhibited. Such stored frames also have a tendency to get damaged due to their bulky nature which produces a waste of inventory and financial resources. In today's world, space is at a premium and there is a need to be efficient in our solutions to storage needs. Both frame storage and other framing issues are in need of more efficient solutions as artists and art lovers encourage creativity while trying to balance their budgets and minimize storage and waste.

Another challenge to the need for framing art for proper display is safety. Safe framing devices are important to keep two-dimensional and relief artwork from being damaged and to keep the materials from crashing down and possibly harming someone. Framing devices need to be sturdy so that the device will not fall apart and cause harm to either an on-looker or the art itself, and to keep the device from torquing, collapsing, or stretching so it does not crack and cause harm in this way.

Framing devices on the market have tried to offer flexibility to cost and storage issues, but these do not meet other criteria of safety or versatility. One type of framing device found in art catalogs and stores offers corner clips that are held together by string. Not only does this type of framing device support only minimal weight but it creates a danger due to unsturdiness and nominal protection from torquing, collapsing, or stretching which could cause breakage and damage. There are also clips known as L-hooks which hold artwork against the wall by way of drilling as many holes in the wall as there are hooks and pressing the glass or plexiglass against the mounted piece of art, and to the wall. This manner of framing and hanging art produces walls in need of multiple repairs, increases the risk of unprotected glass chipping and falling on the gallery floor, and possible damage to the loose corners of the matboard or support materials and the artwork. Another framing device uses tension clips that embed into backing material such as masonite. This device requires that the masonite be as large as the artwork, which produces extensive weight, and this device does not allow for ample space between the artwork and the glass for versatile framing choices, such as multiple matboards, or thickness of artwork, such as relief.

The inventor is a professional artist, who knows first-hand the problems of framing artwork with conventional frames and other devices currently on the market. The current availability creates expense, inadequate design, storage problems, waste, and increased frustration that do not support professional activity. Rather, such designs hamper professional growth by not providing the means to which artists may exhibit their artwork in a safe manner with ease, versatility of design and framing needs, while keeping costs, storage, and waste to a minimum.

People look for ease and accessibility in every facet of their lives and framing needs are no different in this regard, yet no prior approach has been offered which addresses the desire for ease and accessibility in reducing cost and minimizing waste or storage from such devices when not in use while providing stable, safe support.

No device is available to fulfill the need for framing and hanging two-dimensional and relief artwork that supports various sizes of art and versatile framing needs with minimal cost and waste, and in a manner that is safe to both the art and the viewers. No prior device has provided adaptability of size modification and aesthetics with sturdy, safe support. A framing device that has a confining limitation of use is not necessarily the solution for all situations and, therefore, an improved framing device for two-dimensional and relief art is required.

It is therefore an object of the invention to provide a framing device for two-dimensional and relief artwork.

It is another object of the invention to provide a framing device that can be adapted to various sizes of two-dimensional and relief artwork.

It is another object of the invention to secure artwork and its supporting materials in place for hanging.

It is another object of the invention to provide a framing device that can be adapted to various sizes with minimal cost.

It is another object of the invention to provide a framing device that supports light, medium, or heavy weighted artwork and supporting materials.

It is another object of the invention to provide a framing device that offers a variety of aesthetic choices of design.

It is another object of the invention to provide a framing device that is relatively easy to put together and dismantle.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a framing device for two-dimensional (planar) and relief artwork that is both functional and decorative, and can be used multiple times and in various ways for personal or professional exhibition purposes. The framing device is generally a wall support for planar and relief art and supporting materials, and is designed for any size artwork.

Modular elements connect together to form a structure that supports an art package for display. Corner units connect to each other or to extenders with hardware, and optional fasteners, shims, risers, dust masks, and support bars provide more adaptation choice. This support system frames artwork and makes it ready to hang for display. An art package that generally consists of art and supporting materials (such as glass or plexiglass, matboard, and foamcore) generally rests between the lip of each corner unit and extenders. The framing system elements are variable, adaptable, re-usable, and occasionally interchangeable. The elements can be used in multiple combinations to provide a support structure for framing and hanging art.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A complete understanding of the present invention may be obtained by reference to the accompanying drawings, when considered in conjunction with the subsequent, detailed description, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective front view of a re-usable, adaptable framing device in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective front view of a corner edge shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of corner edges shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a fastener shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a perspective back view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a 3-D corner brace shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a perspective front view of an alternate embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 8 is a perspective back view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another alternate embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a fastener shown in FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 12 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a 3-D T brace shown in FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 15 is a perspective front view of the alternate embodiment shown in FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is a perspective back view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an open arm adapter shown in FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a parallel open crown adapter shown in FIG. 16;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of another alternate embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of another alternate embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of another alternate embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 22 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 23 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 24 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 25 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 26 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a crown plate shown in FIG. 26;

FIG. 28 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a crown plate adapter shown in FIG. 28;

FIG. 30 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of five re-usable elements shown in FIG. 30;

FIG. 32 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of three substantially planar objects shown in FIG. 32;

FIG. 34 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 35 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 36 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 37 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 38 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 39 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 40 is a perspective view of a combination brace shown in FIG. 39;

FIG. 41 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 42 is a perspective view of a fastener riser shown in FIG. 41;

FIG. 43 is a perspective view of another alternate embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 44 is a perspective back view of three re-usable elements shown in FIG. 41;

FIG. 45 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 46 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 47 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 48 is a perspective view of another alternate embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 49 is a perspective view of a solid corner unit shown in FIG. 24; and

FIG. 50 is a perspective view of another alternate embodiment of the invention.

For purposes of clarity and brevity, like elements and components will bear the same designations and numbering throughout the FIGURES.

DESCRIPION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

FIG. 1 is a perspective front view of a re-usable, adaptable framing device in accordance with the invention.

In operation, this device enables a user to display art with a safe and convenient method, and provides versatility to the user for adapting the framing device to fit different framing needs and aesthetic choices because, in the preferred embodiment, modular elements are re-usable, adaptable, variable, and occasionally interchangeable. A corner unit 37 is secured on each of the four corners of a user's art package 19 that generally consist of artwork and support materials of a combination of matboard, foamcore, and glass or plexiglass. Each corner unit 37 is attached to another corner unit 37 or to a back support structure 77 when more length is needed to account for the size of the art package 19.

In the preferred embodiment, assortment and choice of modular elements allows for adaptation to artwork sizes, and framing, hanging, and storage needs. Corner units 37 come in different forms, such as side-attaching 95 or back-attaching 33, as fasteners 21, or of corner blocks 27. Corner units 37 can attach directly to extenders 17 so that extenders 17 are flush against the outer margins of an art package 19, or can attach to corner blocks 27 to provide an in-set 43 connection for extenders 17, making extenders 17 less visible when displayed. Corner units 37 can be re-used in their original form or adapted with risers 133, adjoining hardware, or shapes to accommodate different framing needs. They can be fabricated to be of any size or dimensions, wide or narrow, short or long, grooved, interlocking, cushioned, and aesthetically varied to offer style assortment. Extenders 17 can be used to change the length and width of a framing device and also can be made to be of different lengths, widths, and thicknesses, interlocking, or aesthetically varied. They can be pre-cut or can be common material such as lumber (1×2s, 1×3s, ½″ craft board, molding, panel, masonite, pegboard) and pre-shaped or bought separately and attached to corner units 37. Extenders 17 can be re-used in their original size or cut and re-used to save waste and cost, or dismantled and stored separately so that an art package 19 can be stored flat or in a thinner package.

In the preferred embodiment, modular elements consist of a choice of corner units 37, corner edges 16, corner blocks 27, extenders 17, adjoining hardware, dust masks 151, fasteners 21, risers 133, and shims 39, and an assortment of modular elements can be used to change the measurements of the framing device according to what is needed, and can be used to change the aesthetics of the whole. Adjoining hardware units, such as adapters 105, plates 112, and braces 124, facilitate secure connections and versatile use of the framing device, and an assortment of adjoining hardware allows for choice of support. Choice of substantially planar objects allows for adaptation to artwork sizes, and framing, hanging, and storage needs. It should also be understood that substantially planar objects can be used for other purposes, such as mounting windows or building cabinetry.

In the preferred embodiment, a corner unit 37 consists of side-attaching 95 corner edge 16, and sandwiches an art package 19 between its lip 75 and a back support structure 77. In the preferred embodiment, translucent plastic side-attaching 95 corner edge 16 units are available in multiple sizes for a range of artwork and a choice of elements. One such size measures at least three-sixteenths inch in thickness and three and one-half inches length on each side and one and one-eighth inches deep for standard framing industry depth for art and its support materials (for such layers as two four-ply matboard sheets, one one-eighth inch foam core, and one-eighth inch glass or plexiglass) plus five-eighths inch for extender 17 depth, at least one-eighth inch for hardware and extra room, with a one-fourth inch lip 75 overhang, and having pre-drilled countersunk holes 23, and attachable to wood extenders 17 by means of screws 25. The extenders 17, resembling common lumber “1×2s” (five-eighths×one and one-half inches), are attachable together using 3-D corner braces 97 for back attachment 33, but in alternate embodiments, angle wing braces 99 can be used for inside angle attachment, or available standard industry hardware can be used. The extenders 17 have a prepared surface of paint and matte finish. The art and its support materials are covered with glass or plexiglass, placed over the extender 17 support structure 77, and connected via the corner edge 16 units with screws 25. Extenders 17 provide support to reduce the event of torquing, collapsing, or stretching of the framing device. The art package 19 rests between the front of the extenders 17 and under the front lip 75 of the corner edge 16 units.

In the preferred embodiment, the corner edge 16 units are slightly deeper than extenders 17 and rest against the wall surface when hanging, thereby minimizing hardware from scratching the wall. Fasteners 21 made of thin, light-weight but sturdy metal or with tips of translucent plastic are fastened to bend around an art package 19, and attached to extenders 17 on the sides to offer extra support and hold of the art package 19 against the back extender 17 support structure 77. D-rings or eye-hooks with picture wire can connect on the extenders 17 to provide support for the display of the framing device and its contents.

In the preferred embodiment, a corner edge 16 is side-attaching 95 and shaped as a translucent plastic right-angled form with a mitered 35 lip 75. A corner edge 16 is formed in one piece by bending, folding, injection molding, or other suitable plastic-forming technology. Alternately, it can be assembled by means of adhesive, vacuum forming, heat treatment, or other suitable methods known in the arts. In alternate embodiments, it can be fabricated of wood, metal, or any other suitable materials, and can be connected using any suitable methods, including adhesive, nails, and interlocking forms, and can be back-attaching 33, or cushioned. It can have un-mitered 79 cuts, or any shape deemed to be aesthetically pleasing to the user, and can be opaque or semi-opaque, have facets, decorations, or a prepared surface. It is fabricated to the measurement standards of the framing and lumber industries to allow for matching fit with other products used, such as the ply of matboard and the thickness of glass or plexiglass, and that the corner edge 16, along with an art package 19, is as deep as or deeper than the extenders 17 and hardware to keep other framing parts from hitting the wall, but in alternate embodiments, other parts may protrude to produce the hanging quality desired. The preferred embodiment has countersunk holes 23 to connect with screws 25 onto extenders 17, but in other embodiments, the holes may be non-existent or varied, and it can have registration marks for easy registration of other parts, and have one or more additional forms, such as a riser 133, along its inner edge 83 that keeps the glass and artwork separated that offers a different framing option.

In alternate embodiments, the modular elements can be fabricated in variable sizes and configurations to allow for versatile framing needs such as the depth of the unit or size of lip 75. A fastener 21 can be positioned along the edge of an art package 19 to provide hold according to the needs of each user, and connected to an extender 17 using screws 25. In the preferred embodiment, a fastener 21 is fabricated of bend-able yet sturdy metal with countersunk holes 23 that substantially conforms to the terrain of the framing device and partially wraps around the front edge of an art package 19 to provide hold with its lip 75 form. The bend-able nature of a fastener 21 allows the user to shape a fastener 21 to account for the distance of each extender 17 from the edge of the art package 19 and the thickness of the art package 19. In alternate embodiments, a fastener 21 can be fabricated of any material, style, and size or dimensions, or of those matching a corner edge 16. A fastener 21 can have additional forms, such as a cushion, or a riser 133, along its inner edge 83 that separates the glass and artwork and thus provides a different framing option, and can be back-attaching 33, rigid, available in lengths or short sections, pre-formed, cut-able, fabric, flexible, or have any other suitable form and style that offers the same holding purpose, and can be connected using any other suitable methods, including adhesives, nails, and interlocking forms.

FIG. 2 is a perspective front view of a corner edge 16 shown in FIG. 1. In the preferred embodiment, a corner edge 16 has two sides with a mitered 35 front lip 75 and countersunk holes 23. It can be fabricated in any size or dimensions, or style, and can be solid or assembled.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of corner edges 16 shown in FIG. 1. A set of four from the front and from the back are shown.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a fastener shown in FIG. 1. This view shows a bend-able fastener 21 made of sturdy but light-weight metal and countersunk holes 23.

FIG. 5 is a perspective back view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 1. In the preferred embodiment, extenders 17 are connected with 3-D corner braces 97 (described in FIG. 6). An extender 17 is made of wood with a flat front and back face having a prepared surface, and is versatile, adaptable, interchangeable, and re-usable to fit a variety of framing needs. In alternate embodiments, an extender 17 can be fabricated of plastic, metal, or any suitable material, and can be solid, hollowed, or semi-hollowed, and be translucent, opaque, semi-opaque, interlocking, cushioned, and with any size or dimensions, shape or cuts, or used with hardware that adapts the extenders 17 to connect to another part. It can be made as standard framing lengths or with other proportions, and the measurements can equal sizes of common lumber, such as what is known in the industry as “1×2” length boards (⅝×1 ½″), or other sizes according to the size and weight of each art package 19, so that common lumber can be substituted for a packaged extender 17, making an extender 17 viably inexpensive and easy to acquire. In the preferred embodiment, an extender 17 has flat front and back surfaces that do not protrude beyond the limits of the corner edge 16 so it does not protrude into the artwork while providing a flat surface on which to rest the art package 19 and to hang against the wall.

The framing device can be dismantled to be re-used for other framing needs, or to be stored. When stored, the artwork that was framed can be stored flat and not maintain as much bulk as it did when framed. The modular parts can be stored separately or can be re-used into an adapted framing device according to which elements are needed. Each extender 17 can be used again as is, or cut to fit a different size art package 19 and used with choice of hardware and optional parts.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a 3-D corner brace 97 shown in FIG. 5. This adjoining hardware is right-angled with two sides on its inner corner. It connects at least two forms together and provides extra support with its sides, and is pre-formed of general industry sizes and materials of sturdy yet thin and light-weight metal with countersunk holes 23 for screws 25. Its size is suitable for using with wood known in the industry as “1×2s”. In alternate embodiments, it can be fabricated in any size or dimensions, and weight, and from plastic or any suitable material, and can be translucent, opaque, or semi-opaque, and made into any shape with any number of holes.

FIG. 7 is a perspective front view of an alternate embodiment of the invention. Corner units 37, fasteners 21, and a back support structure 77 secure an art package 19 for display. Fasteners 21 are shown fabricated with the same material and aesthetic features as a corner edge 16, and used in choice places to offer extra hold. A fastener 21 can be connected using screws 25 or any other suitable methods, including adhesive, nails, and interlocking forms, and can be cushioned, back-attaching 33, bend-able, or interlocking, designed to attach at given points, or any size or dimensions, or other suitable form and aesthetic style that offers the same holding purpose. Fasteners 21 can be used as a corner unit 37.

FIG. 8 is a perspective back view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 7. This view shows mitered 35 extenders 17 and a support bar 41. A support bar 41 provides extra support to reduce the event of torquing, collapsing, or stretching of a framing device. A smaller size 3-D corner brace 97 of FIG. 6 is shown attaching the support bar 41 to extenders 17. A support bar 41 is of long rectangular shape and fabricated of wood but in alternate embodiments, it can be fabricated of any shape and be plastic, metal, or any suitable material, and can be pre-cut or made to be cut by the user as needed. In the preferred embodiment, adapters 105 are provided with a support bar 41 to connect to extenders 17 or other support bars 41, and can be fabricated in any size and style. In the preferred embodiment, two support bars 41 can be attached together with adapters 105 without protruding past the back surface or the surface where the art package 19 begins. In alternate embodiments, a support bar 41 can be substituted for common lumber such as plain molding, and used with adjoining hardware or any suitable available hardware.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another alternate embodiment of the invention. Angle wing braces 99 (described in FIG. 11) are shown replacing the 3-D corner braces 97 where extenders 17 meet. This embodiment positions hardware only on side surfaces and away from the back surface of the framing device so as to minimize the potential of scratching the wall when hanging. Fasteners 21 are shown as lengths that are cut to fit between the corner units 37 and to match the corner units 37 in style.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a fastener 21 shown in FIG. 9. It can be pre-cut to standard lengths to be used with extenders 17 that are cut to standard length to connect to corner units 37 to create ease of framing based on standard sizes, or it can be available in lengths suitable for storage that are cut by the user into small parts or shapes as needed, or to fit the length of space left un-covered by corner units 37 as shown.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of another alternate embodiment of the invention. Three angle wing braces 99 are shown connecting two mitered 35 extenders 17 together and sandwich an art package 19 onto the support structure 77 using mulitple small fasteners 21. A dotted line describes where the extenders 17 could be cut un-mitered 79. An angle wing brace 99 is one type of brace 124 usable for connecting at least two forms together, and is adjoining hardware that also provides angle support, and can be used singly or in multiples, and in stacked sizes so more than one brace can be used in the same area for extra support. The ends 107 of an angle wing brace 99 are bent at ninety degrees from each other with the middle 109 section bent at forty-five degrees from each end 107. It is pre-formed of general industry sizes and materials of sturdy yet thin and light-weight metal with countersunk holes 23 along its length for general industry screws 25, and one-half inch wide, but can be fabricated in any size and weight and from plastic or any suitable material, and be translucent, opaque, or semi-opaque, and fabricated into any shape with any number of holes, and with straight or beveled 123 ends, and fabricated to be positioned next to each other or on top of each other.

FIG. 12 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention. Angle wing braces 99 are shown connecting extenders 17. One support bar 41 is connected to extenders 17 using small 3-D corner braces 97, and a support bar 41 is connected to extenders 17 with 3-D T braces 103 (described in FIG. 13).

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a 3-D T brace shown in FIG. 12. A 3-D T brace 103 is adjoining hardware that matches the capabilities and fabrication of a 3-D corner brace 97 and combines the function of two corner braces 97, while requiring the handling and positioning of one brace instead of two. It fits the width of a board commonly referred to in the industry as a “1×2” at its narrow enclosure, but alternate embodiments can be fabricated to fit a “1×3” inch board or any other size or dimensions.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of another alternate embodiment of the invention. A corner block 27, shown separate, is also shown attached to a corner edge 16. A corner edge 16 can be adapted to provide more surface connection and create versatility for framing needs and aesthetic choices by attaching to a corner block 27. A corner block 27 is fabricated of wood, but can be fabricated from plastic, metal, or any suitable material, and can be a separate form or be a solid unit with a corner edge 16. A corner block 27 is a square shape and as thick as an extender 17, but can have any size, and any shape or cut, such as a bevel 123. It can be translucent, opaque, semi-opaque, have a prepared surface, or be cushioned. It has predrilled holes to attach to a corner edge 16 with screws 25, but can be connected with nails, adhesive, or any suitable form of attachment, and be without holes. It can interlock or be back-attaching 33 with a shaped corner edge 16 or extender 17, and the connecting hardware can be placed to be less visible when hanging. A corner block 27 can be fabricated to adapt to framing needs. A corner block 27 attaches to one or more extender 17 and allows for each extender 17 to be in-set 43 from the edge of an art package 19, making each extender 17 less visible when hanging for display.

FIG. 15 is a perspective front view of the alternate embodiment shown in FIG. 14. Hidden back support structure 77 offers a versatile framing option for aesthetic choice. To provide this feature, each extender 17 is in-set 43 from the back edge of an art package 19, making each extender 17 less visible and giving the appearance of a lighter-weight look. Corner edges 16 of FIG. 1 have un-mitered ends, the extenders 17 are not visible from this view, and fasteners 21 are of bend-able, thin material. Corner units 37 are located at the corners of an art package 19, with each corner unit 37 consisting of a corner edge 16 attached to a corner block 27. Each corner block 27 is attached to extenders 17, making each extender 17 in-set 43 from the edge of an art package 19. One or more fastener 21 is attached with screws 25 to each extender 17 and hooks around the front edge of the art package 19, providing extra hold in between each corner unit 37 along the length of each extender 17. A shim 39 is visible in the Figure that acts as a wedge to offer a tighter connection to limit shifting of the art package 19 when necessary. Space as needed for an art package 19 can also be adjusted by varying the layers of an art package 19, using a different thickness of extender 17 or corner block 37, adapting the alignment of a corner unit 37 or extender 17, using a different size corner unit 37, using different hardware, using cushion, or using risers 133. In this view, each corner edge 16 is un-mitered 79, offering a different aesthetic look, and a fastener 21 is located along two points on each side.

FIG. 16 is a perspective back view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 15. This embodiment creates space between the outer edge of an art package 19 and back support structure 77. Each corner unit 37 consists of a side-attaching 95 corner edge 16 and a corner block 27, attached with screws 25 in countersunk holes 23, connected to an un-mitered 79 extender 17 at each inner edge 83 of a corner block 27. A fastener 21 is attached to each extender 17 where desired and hooks around the front on an art package 19 to offer extra hold. Bend-able fasteners 21 are shown conforming to the shape of an art package 19 and in-set 43 extenders 17, but can be of any size or dimensions, or shape to accommodate a different shape of extender 17 or art package 19 and in-set 43 space. Each extender 17 and corner block 27 attachment is made with an open arm adapter 87 (described in FIG. 17) and connected with screws 25. A parallel open crown adapter 69 (described in FIG. 18) is shown attaching each support bar 41 to another support bar 41 or extender 17.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an open arm adapter 87 shown in FIG. 16. This adjoining hardware is one type of adapter 105 for attaching at least two forms together, and is comprised of a bent plate 111 and a backing plate 113 and provides counter-directional support. The two plates 112 can be formed together or separate and are aligned parallel to each other with the two end 107 lengths of the top plate bent at ninety degrees from the middle 109 flat section, and is pre-formed of sturdy but light-weight metal and have countersunk holes 23 for screws 25. It can have a tray 115 form, and be fabricated with a separate tray 115 and backing plate 113, solid or assembled, or its sections can be positioned perpendicular to each other. It can be fabricated in any size or dimensions, shape, or number of holes, and in plastic or suitable material, and can be attached with any other suitable means.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a parallel open crown adapter 69 shown in FIG. 16. This adjoining hardware is for attaching at least two forms together while providing counter-directional support without limiting width. It can be used when a support bar 41 is thinner than extenders 17. It has two plates 112 with countersunk holes 23 for screws 25 and fabricated with pre-formed sturdy but light-weight metal. It is formed with a backing plate 113 and a bent plate 111 running parallel to each other with the top and bottom of the bent plate 111 facing against the alignment. It can have a box 119 form, and the plates can be separate or combined, or positioned perpendicular to each other. It can be solid or assembled, and can be fabricated in any shape, size or dimensions, or number of holes, and can be fabricated of plastic or any suitable material, and can be attached with any other suitable means.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of another alternate embodiment of the invention. A perpendicular open crown adapter is adjoining hardware that has two bent plates 111 with countersunk holes 23 for screws 25 and fabricated with pre-formed sturdy but light-weight metal for connecting at least two forms together while providing counter-directional support. Both plates are bent and their alignment is facing against each other. It can be solid or assembled, and can be fabricated in any shape, size or dimensions, or number of holes, and can be fabricated of plastic or any suitable material, and can be attached with any other suitable means.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of another alternate embodiment of the invention A box crown adapter 117 is adjoining hardware that connects at least two forms together while providing extra counter-directional support and enclosure support. It has a box 119 form for receiving the end of an extender 17 or support bar 41 and a backing plate 113 that attaches to the surface of another part such as another extender 17 or support bar 41, and is made of pre-formed sturdy but light-weight metal with countersunk holes 23 on every surface for attaching to various surfaces. It can be solid or assembled, be fabricated of plastic, metal, or other suitable material, any number of holes, and attachable with nails, adhesive qualities, or any other suitable materials, and any size or dimension. Directional arrows 143 show counter-directional attachment.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of another alternate embodiment of the invention. A condensed box crown adapter 121 is adjoining hardware that connects at least two forms together while offering counter-directional support with a dis-proportional amount of surface for disproportional sizes of forms. It has a smaller dosed form than the backing plate 113. It can be solid or assembled, and can be fabricated in any shape, size or dimensions, or number of holes, or with an open form, and can be fabricated of metal, plastic, or any suitable material, and can be attached with screws 25 or any other suitable means.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of another alternate embodiment of the invention. A corner block 27 is shown beveled 123 with angle wing braces 99 connecting the corner units 37 to extenders 17. A dust mask 151 can be fitted on device units, on the art package 19, or on a combination of units and the art package 19, and can be fabricated of plastic, fabric, paper, tape, or suitable material, be formed or flexible, and can be attached with adhesive, heat, or any suitable method, have cushioning, or replace (plexi) glass. A dust mask 151 is positioned to cover the edge of an art package 19 and wrap around the back of an art package 19, or can wrap onto the front of an art package 19 or have any other coverage, and be translucent, tinted, or colored.

FIG. 23 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention. 3-D T braces 103 are shown connecting extenders 17 to corner units 37 and fasteners 21 conforming to the spacing created by the in-set 43 extenders 17 are attached.

FIG. 24 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention. A solid corner unit 37 is attached with two 3-D corner braces 97 and one angle wing brace 99.

FIG. 25 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention. A shaped corner unit 37 is attached to extenders 17 with two angle wing braces 99, and two types of fasteners 21 are used to provide extra hold for securing an art package 19.

FIG. 26 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention. A corner unit 37 is attached to extenders 17 with crown plates 125 (described in FIG. 27).

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a crown plate 125 shown in FIG. 26. A crown plate 125 is one type of plate 112 for connecting at least two forms together, and is adjoining hardware that also provides counter-directional support. It has a tray-form 115, formed by a surface with two sides and an end 107. It is fabricated in sturdy but light-weight metal and with countersunk holes 23 for screws 25 but can be fabricated in any shape, size or dimension, or number of holes, and can be fabricated of plastic or any suitable material, and can be attached with any other suitable means. A crown plate 125 is shown with the tray 115 facing up and one with the tray 115 facing down.

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of another alternate embodiment of the invention. A corner unit 37 is attached to extenders 17 with crown plate adapters 127 (described in FIG. 29).

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a crown plate adapter 127 shown in FIG. 28. A crown plate adapter 127 is adjoining hardware that provides the benefit of a crown plate 125 with extra surface and counter-directional support. It can be solid or assembled, pre-formed of sturdy and light-weight metal, or any suitable material, of any size and dimensions, and have countersunk holes 23 or any number of holes, and be attached with nails or screws 25.

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of another alternate embodiment of the invention. A corner unit 37 shaped with a bevel 123 cut is connected to extenders 17 with crown plates 125 and an angle wing brace 99.

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a corner edge 16, a corner block 27, a crown plate 125, an extender 17, and angle wing brace 99 of FIG. 30.

FIG. 32 is a perspective view of another alternate embodiment of the invention. A corner unit 37 is connected to extenders 17 with crown plates 125, a bent plate 111 and an extended bent plate 139. The corner unit 37 has been shaped with grooves 129 to allow the bent plate 111 and extended bent plate 139 to fit into the extenders 17 for extra hold.

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of a bent plate 111, an extended bent plate 139, and a crown plate 125 shown in FIG. 32. A bent plate 111 is similar to a crown plate 125 but without an end 107 section, and an extended bent plate 139 is a bent plate 111 form with extra surface support. These adjoining hardware elements are pre-formed of general industry sizes and materials of sturdy yet thin and light-weight metal with countersunk holes 23 for general industry screws 25, and can be fabricated in any size and dimensions and weight and from plastic or any suitable material, and be translucent, opaque, or semi-opaque, and be interlocking and fabricated in any shape with any number of holes.

FIG. 34 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention. An extender 17 is attached to a shaped corner unit 37 with a bent plate 111 fit into grooves 129 on the end 107 of the corner block 27 for extra support, and attached with screws 25.

FIG. 35 is a perspective view of another alternate embodiment of the invention. A corner unit 37 and extenders 17 are shaped and connected together with bent plates 111 and screws 25, and a support bar 41 and extender 17 are shaped with grooves 129 for bent plate 111 connection.

FIG. 36 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention; corner edge 16 of FIG. 3 and a corner block 27 of FIG. 4. A corner edge 16 is fabricated to attach at the back with countersunk holes 23 along the additional back surface, and attach to a corner block 27 that is fabricated to interlock with a back-attaching 22 corner edge 16 and attach at the back with screws 25.

FIG. 37 is a perspective view of another alternate embodiment of the invention. A back-attaching 33 corner unit 37 and fastener 21 are connected to mitered 35 extenders with screws 25, and can be fabricated to interlock.

FIG. 38 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention. A back-attaching 33 corner edge 16 and back-attaching 33 corner block 27 unit are placed at the corner of an art package 19 with extenders 17 and connected with crown plates 125.

FIG. 39 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention. A corner unit 37 is attached to extenders 17 with a combination brace 131 (described in FIG. 41).

FIG. 40 is a perspective view of a combination brace shown in FIG. 39. A combination brace 131 is adjoining hardware that attaches at least two forms together and provides multiple surface support. It is pre-formed of general industry sizes and materials of sturdy yet thin and light-weight metal with countersunk holes 23 along its length for general industry screws 25, and can be fabricated in any size and weight and from plastic or any suitable material, and be translucent, opaque, or semi-opaque, and be interlocking and with any shape and with any number of holes.

FIG. 41 is a perspective view of another alternate embodiment of the invention. A corner unit 37 with corner risers 135 separates the glass from the rest of the art package 19 and provides extra space between the glass (or plexiglass) and artwork. Risers 133 can be formed as corners or as straight bars, and are plastic but can be fabricated of metal, wood, composite materials, fabric, or foam, and be any size or shape. Corner risers 135 provide a layer of separation, such as between the glass and artwork, and are pre-formed with corner units 37 and fasteners 21, but can be separate. Riser bars 137 provide a tighter fit between sections, such as extenders 17 and corner units 37, and are pre-drilled but can be with any number of holes. Riser bars 137 can replace shims 39 in that the riser bars 137 have appropriate sizes according to the modular elements. A fastener 21 with at least one riser 153 attached is shown (described in FIG. 43). Fasteners 21 are shown as a length, a short section, and as adhesive fabric 141 which provides dust protection between the rigid fastener sections. A support bar 41 is connected to an extender 17 with a box crown adapter 117, and a riser bar 137 provides a tighter fit of the support bar 41 and adapter 105 with the extender 17.

FIG. 42 is a perspective view of a fastener 21 with risers 133 shown in FIG. 41.

FIG. 43 is a perspective view of another alternate embodiment of the invention. A fastener 21 with risers 133 has a thicker bottom section for use with corner blocks 27.

FIG. 44 is a perspective view of risers 133 shown in FIG. 41. A riser bar 137 and a corner riser 135 are shown separate, and a deeper corner edge 16 has a corner riser 135 attached.

FIG. 45 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention. A corner edge 16 with a riser 133 attached is positioned with a corner block 27.

FIG. 46 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention. A riser 133 is located in more than one place to make space adjustments.

FIG. 47 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention. A back-attaching 33 corner edge 16 is connected to in-set 43 mitered 35 extenders 17 with screws 25. A 3-D corner brace 97 connects extenders 17 together, and shims 39 provide extra tight hold between the corner edge 16 and an art package 19.

FIG. 48 is a perspective back view of another alternate embodiment of the invention. A back-attaching 33 corner edge 16 is connected to a shaped back-attaching 33 corner block 27 with screws 25. Four angle wing braces 99 connect extenders 17 to the corner unit 37. Two types of fasteners 21 provide extra hold.

FIG. 49 is a perspective front view of solid corner units 37 shown in FIG. 24.

FIG. 50 is a perspective view of another alternate embodiment of the invention. A style of interlocking corner unit 37 is shown with a shaped corner edge 16 and a reciprocating shaped corner block 27.

Since other modifications and changes varied to fit particular operating requirements and environments will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the invention is not considered limited to the example chosen for purposes of disclosure, and covers all changes and modifications which do not constitute departures from the true spirit and scope of this invention.

Having thus described the invention, what is desired to be protected by Letters Patent is presented in the subsequently appended claims.

Claims

1. A re-usable, adaptable framing device comprising:

a) a plurality of modular elements, each of said modular elements comprising at least one planar surface, said modular elements being connectable with one another, at least one dimension of said modular elements being selected so as to provide no more than a substantially flush orientation with an art package, while preventing the intrusion thereof into the art package; and

b) means for attaching said at least one planar surface of said modular elements to a structural component of said art package, said modular elements at least partially surrounding a work of art;

whereby said framing device forms a cohesive unit with the work of art.

2. The re-usable, adaptable framing device in accordance with claim 1, wherein said structural component is at least one of said art package, a cross member, a layer, and a support structure.

3. The re-usable, adaptable framing device in accordance with claim 1, wherein said modular elements are attached to said structural component at at least one location thereof from the group: side, top, bottom, back, inner, outer, and front.

4. The re-usable, adaptable framing device in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for attaching comprises means from the group: permanent and removable.

5. The re-usable, adaptable framing device in accordance with claim 4, wherein said means for attaching comprises at least one of the group: apertures, adhesive, glue, spring-loaded mechanism, hook and eye fasteners, screws, nails, tacks, wires, staples, pins, clamps, pegs, heat, pressure, nuts, bolts.

6. The re-usable, adaptable framing device in accordance with claim 1, wherein said modular elements form at least one of the group: extenders, risers, fasteners, corners, corner blocks, corner edges, dust masks, adapters and connecting and adjoining hardware.

7. A re-usable, adaptable framing device comprising:

a) a plurality of re-usable modular elements, each of said modular elements comprising at least one planar surface, said modular elements being connectable with one another; and

b) means for attaching said at least one planar surface of said modular elements to a structural component of an art package, said modular elements at least partially surrounding a work of art;

whereby said framing device may be adapted, dependent upon dimensions of works of art and forms a cohesive unit therewith.

8. The re-usable, adaptable framing device in accordance with claim 7, wherein said structural component is at least one of said art package, a cross member, a layer, and a support structure.

9. The re-usable, adaptable framing device in accordance with claim 7, wherein said modular elements are attached to said structural component at at least one location thereof from the group: side, top, bottom, back, inner, outer, and front.

10. The re-usable, adaptable framing device in accordance with claim 7, wherein said means for attaching comprises means from the group: permanent and removable.

11. The re-usable, adaptable framing device in accordance with claim 10, wherein said means for attaching comprises at least one of the group: apertures, adhesive, glue, spring-loaded mechanism, hook and eye fasteners, screws, nails, tacks, wire, staples, pins, clamps, pegs, heat, pressure, nuts, bolts.

12. The re-usable, adaptable framing device in accordance with claim 7, wherein said modular elements form at least one of the group: extenders, risers, fasteners, corners, corner blocks, corner edges, dust masks, adapters and connecting and adjoining hardware.

13. The re-usable, adaptable framing device in accordance with claim 7, wherein said modular elements are formed from at least one of the group: wood, plastic, metal, composites, paper, foam, and fabric.

14. The re-usable, adaptable framing device in accordance with claim 7, wherein said modular elements comprise at least one of the groups of shapes: U-shaped, planar, right-angled, lipped, fructo-conical; curved, rounded, polygonal, grooved, slotted, pre-drilled, and faceted.

15. A re-usable, substantially planar object comprising:

a) a re-usable modular element, comprising at least one planar surface, said modular element being connectable with another modular element; and

b) means for attaching said at least one planar surface of said modular element to a structural component of a substantially planar object; said modular element at least partially surrounding a substantially planar object;

whereby said substantially planar object may be adapted, dependent upon dimensions of a structural component, and forms a cohesive unit therewith.

16. The re-usable, substantially planar object in accordance with claim 15, wherein said structural component is at least one of said cohesive unit, a cross member, a layer, a support structure, and an adjoining unit.

17. The re-usable, substantially planar object in accordance with claim 15, wherein said modular element is attached to said structural component at at least one location thereof from the group: side, top, bottom, back, inner, outer, and front.

18. The re-usable, substantially planar object in accordance with claim 15, wherein said means for attaching comprises at least one of the group: apertures, adhesive, glue, spring-loaded mechanism, hook and eye fasteners, screws, nails, tacks, wire, staples, pins, clamps, pegs, heat, pressure, nuts, bolts.

19. The re-usable, substantially planar object in accordance with claim 15, wherein said modular element forms at least one of the group: extender, riser, fastener, corner, corner block, corner edge, dust mask, adapter and connecting and adjoining hardware.

20. The re-usable, substantially planar object in accordance with claim 15, wherein said modular element is formed from at least one of the group: wood, plastic, metal, composites, paper, foam, and fabric.