MODULAR DISPLAY SYSTEM

Abstract

A portable, modular display system and method for use that can esthetically display food or other items on a rigid surface(s) or a series of steps that are illuminated, and these modules can be assembled into a variety of decorative configurations enabling adaptation to an event venue.

Description

CLAIM OF PRIORITY

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Utility Patent No. 61/841,572 filed on Jul. 1, 2013, which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present embodiment of the invention is in the field of catering and food presentation. Further, the present embodiment of the invention relates to a portable series of variably-sized, variably-functioned modules that can be quickly assembled, used, and broken down on site. More particularly, this invention can have at least one rigid surface with lighting and a current embodiment has three step lighted modules of different lengths, four step lighted modules of different lengths, decorative lighted display modules, jumbo lighted display modules capable of holding solids or liquids upon which foods can be placed and displayed, and jumbo lighted display modules capable of heating or cooking or displaying food prior to display and removal by patrons. The invention is not limited to food, and can be used for displaying various products and items in a variety of fields.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

There are numerous systems for catering, display of food, and food preparation. Food can be displayed and prepared in the same location, displayed in one location and prepared in another, or partially prepared in one location with final preparation and display in another. Food can be displayed on piles of ice, and hot food can be prepared on grills. Often the method of display is simply utilitarian, with little concern for the esthetics of the final presentation to the consumer. As people grow more conscious of food and the demand for high quality gourmet food rises, so too increases the demand for beautiful presentation systems commensurate with the quality of the food being served.

The present invention and method for its use is an illuminated display and preparation system that takes advantage of the unique esthetically pleasing appearance of lights illuminating frosted glass, plastic, or other materials upon which food can be displayed. The food can be displayed on a one step (rigid surface), two step, three step, four step, etc. of lighted modules, all of which are available in a variety of widths. Such steps can be assembled in many different ways, with decorative lighted display modules that can hold flowers or other items and accessories that can enhance the overall appearance of the display and the food contained on or within such display. Also part of the system is a jumbo lighted display module that is capable of holding ice and food placed upon such ice and is capable of holding or containing a hibachi heating device for cooking foods prior to display. The invention is not limited to food, and can be used for displaying various products and items in a variety of fields. The present invention is easy and cost efficient to manufacture. The present invention is a new, easy, and customizable way to elegantly display items.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

The present invention is a modular display system that can be used for, but is not limited to, the displaying of food. There are a multitude of display modules, and they can be combined to adapt to the display requirements of the venue. There are also decorative modules to enhance the display of food.

The present invention may be comprised of at least one module or panel that has at least four rigid surfaces which can be removably attached together to form a step-like structure in a gradually upward and setback stepwise fashion. If two or more modules or panels are used, at least one of the rigid surfaces of the second or additional display module(s) may extend over the first display module to form a canopy, which may partially overhang the first or previously positioned display module oriented below or underneath it. In addition there may be a lighting device secured to the canopy to illuminate what is below.

The modular display system can be made of wire, and/or a wire or other material structure or frame and may contain at least one rigid surface. Furthermore, the modular display system may have one or more surfaces either made of a frosted material, having a frosted material mounted to, or having a frosted material placed thereon, to purposefully scatter and reflect light to enhance what is being displayed.

The back of at least one of the display modules may have an opening on at least one side exposing it to the ambient. All frosted materials referenced can be made of glass or plastic, and can be colored and/or tinted and/or translucent and/or clear. The depth of the display modules can in some instances be no greater than 30 inches deep.

The modular display system can further comprise, and/or utilize, and/or accommodate, at least one chef table and at least one banquet table. However the invention may not utilize chef table(s) in excess of 18 inches deep and banquet table(s) in excess of 30 inches deep. The chef table and banquet tables can be 4 and/or 6 and/or 8 feet wide.

In addition the present invention may be constructed so as to also comprise of a tray capable of for holding liquids and/or solids, and there can be an additional lighting device. The tray may be made form acrylic material. There can also be one or more clear or frosted decorative display panels attached or placed upon and/or above the tray and/or one of the four rigid surfaces in at least one of the display module(s) or panel(s). In this embodiment, the present invention may also comprise of a device for draining water. This device may be attached to the tray and consist of at least one hole, a flange, and/or a tube. The decorative display panels can be one of the following: glass, plastic, frosted, clear, and/or translucent, and they can be rectangular, planar, curved and/or or other shapes. The decorative display panels can be joined and/or assembled together using brackets and/or angled brackets and/or Velcro and/or adhesive.

An additional feature that one embodiment of the present invention may further comprise of is a warming, heating, or cooking device. This device may be incorporated into this display module, and there may also be an additional lighting device.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the invention may integrate a first display module having at least four rigid surfaces attached together to form a step-like structure and a front façade and light support to form a canopy partially overhanging a first or previously positioned display module, and there can be a lighting device secured to the canopy.

Additionally, there can be one or more clear or frosted decorative display panels being attached or placed upon and/or above one of the four rigid surfaces in the display module. These decorative display panels can be one of the following: glass, plastic, frosted, clear, and/or translucent, and can be rectangular, planar, curved and/or or other shapes. The decorative display panels can be joined and/or assembled together using brackets and/or angled brackets and/or Velcro and/or adhesive. The back of at least one of the display modules can have an opening on at least one side exposing it to the ambient.

The present invention can also comprise of a decoration display module comprising at least three rigid decoration surfaces, a means of joining rigid decoration surfaces together, and a lighting device, and this lighting device can be similar to said lighting devices used in the food display modules.

The lighting device and/or additional lighting devices may produce light by an electrical powered lighting device or a chemical lighting device. The electrical powered lighting device may be composed of one or more LED lights. The electrical powered lighting device can be controlled by a lighting control module. There can be one or more electrically powered lighting devices controlled by at least one lighting control module. There can be a means to distribute electrical power from the lighting control module to one or more electrically powered lighting devices. There can also be one or more lighting control modules. There can be an on/off switch to power all lighting or a portion thereof. The lighting control modules can either be powered from wall current or have a battery pack that can be mounted which provides power to lighting control modules without the need for wall power. The lighting control module can have one or more control functions including dimming control, chasing patterns, color changing, and/or any combination thereof. Manual switches and/or proximity sensors may also be integrated to engage and disengage one or more control functions. There can also be a device that produces sound.

In this invention, all rigid surfaces can be composed of any rigid material including wood, metal, plastic, or glass. Rigid surfaces can be planar and/or curved. All lighting devices can be attached to all rigid surfaces using any of the following: Velcro, adhesive, tape, brackets, slots, screw heads, rivets, magnets, snaps, and/or clamps.

In this invention, a single molded piece could be used to form at least one of the rigid surfaces that are attached together to form any and/or all of the display modules. A single molded piece can also be used for the three or more rigid surfaces forming a tray support base upon which tray support plate can be mounted and/or placed. An embodiment of the present invention may also comprise of one or more storage container systems attached to any rigid surfaces.

The present invention may additionally comprise of a first display module having at least one rigid surface attached to a first frame to form a step-like structure, and at least one additional display module also having at least one rigid surface attached to at least one additional frame to form a second and/or additional step-like structure which may attached to or placed upon and/or above the first and/or previously positioned display module in a gradually upward and setback stepwise fashion. At least one rigid surface of the second and/or thereafter additional display module may extend over at least a portion of the first or previously positioned display module to form a canopy that may partially overhang the first or previously positioned display module. The invention may also integrate a lighting device that may be secured to the canopy to illuminate what is being displayed. The modular display system can be made of wire, and/or a wire or other material structure or frame and at least one rigid surface. The first, second, and/or thereafter additional frame(s) can be made of non-metal and/or can have one or more surfaces either made of a frosted material, having a frosted material mounted to, or having a frosted material placed thereon, and this frosted material scatters light to enhance what is being displayed.

An embodiment of the present invention may also comprise of one rigid surface containing at least one internal housing or bracket device securing a removeably attached lighting device. This rigid surface can have a designated top surface and a designated bottom surface, and a lighting device can be attached to bottom surface. The bottom surface can retain an internal housing or bracket device and faces downward, and the lighting device can be removeably attached to the internal housing or bracket, and also faces downward to project light downward. The lighting device can have at least one LED light. There can be a rigid surface attached to or placed upon and/or above a frame. The modular display system may also include bottom rigid surface(s) on the bottom of the module display(s) and/or panel(s).

Furthermore, in at least one embodiment of the present invention, the modular display system can have an opening on at least one side to the ambient of the back of at least one of the said display modules. The modular display system may also utilize frosted material as or on the surface of the displays, which may be made of at least one of glass, plastic, and be colored, tinted, translucent, and/or clear.

The present invention also comprises of a method of use for setting-up the display system and breaking-down the display system. The present invention also comprises of a method of use for patron use and for staff use of the display system.

A modular display system may comprising of at least one of the following seven combinations: (i) a first display module having at least one wire, and/or a wire or other material structure or frame and/or at least one flat rigid surface; a second or thereafter additional display module having at least one wire, and/or a wire or other material structure or frame and at least one flat rigid surface; said second or thereafter additional display module being removably attached to or placed upon and/or above the first or previously positioned display module in a gradually upward and setback stepwise fashion; at least one rigid surface of said second or thereafter additional display module extending over said first or previously positioned display module to form a canopy partially overhanging said first or previously positioned display module; and a lighting device secured to said canopy; (ii) a first display module having at least four rigid surfaces attached together to form a step-like structure; a second and/or thereafter additional display module(s) also having at least four rigid surfaces attached together to form a second step-like structure; said second and/or thereafter additional display module(s) being attached to or placed upon and/or above the first or previously positioned display module in a gradually upward and setback stepwise fashion; at least one rigid surface of said second and/or thereafter additional display module extending over said first or previously positioned display module to form a canopy partially overhanging said first or previously positioned display module; and a lighting device secured to said canopy; (iii) a first display module having at least four rigid surfaces attached together to form a step-like structure with a second and/or thereafter additional display module also having at least four rigid surfaces attached together to form a second or thereafter additional step-like structure; a lighting device secured to said canopy; a tray capable of for holding liquids and/or solids; an additional lighting device; and one or more clear or frosted decorative display panels being attached or placed upon and/or above said tray and/or said one of four rigid surfaces in said second and/or thereafter additional display module; (iv) a first display module having at least four rigid surfaces attached together to form a step-like structure and a second and/or thereafter additional display module also having at least four rigid surfaces attached together to form a second step-like structure; one of said four rigid surfaces in any of said display module(s) has a hole and/or area of material removed; at least one rigid surface of said second and/or thereafter additional display module(s) extends over said first or previously positioned display module to form a canopy partially overhanging said first or previously positioned second and/or thereafter additional display module; a lighting device secured to said canopy; a warming, heating, or cooking device; an additional lighting device; and one or more clear or frosted decorative display panels being attached or placed upon and/or above said one of four rigid surface in said second and/or thereafter additional display module(s); (v) a first display module having at least four rigid surfaces attached together to form a step-like structure; a second and/or thereafter additional display module also having at least four rigid surfaces attached together to form a second and/or thereafter additional step-like structure; at least one rigid surface of said second or thereafter additional display module(s) extend over said first or previously positioned display module(s) to form a canopy partially overhanging said first and/or previously positioned display module(s); a lighting device secured to said canopy; an additional lighting device; and one or more clear or frosted decorative display panels being attached or placed upon and/or above said one of four rigid surfaces in said second and/or thereafter additional display module(s); (vi) a first display module having at least four rigid surfaces attached together to form a step-like structure; a front façade and light support to form a canopy partially overhanging said first display module; a lighting device secured to said canopy; an additional lighting device; and one or more clear or frosted decorative display panels being attached or placed upon and/or above said one of four rigid surfaces in said first display module; and/or (vii) a first display module having at least one rigid surface attached to a first frame to form a step-like structure; a second or thereafter additional display module also having at least one rigid surface attached to a second or thereafter additional frame to form a second and/or thereafter additional step-like structure; said second or thereafter additional display module being attached to or placed upon and/or above the first and/or previously positioned display module in a gradually upward and setback stepwise fashion; at least one rigid surface of said second or thereafter additional display module extending over said first or previously positioned display module to form a canopy partially overhanging said first and/or previously positioned display module; and a lighting device secured to said canopy.

At least one of said first display module or second or thereafter additional display module(s) may have a surface either made of a frosted material, may have a frosted material and/or surface mounted thereon, or may have a frosted material and/or surface placed thereon. Said frosted material and/or surface may be at least one of glass, plastic, colored, tinted, translucent, and/or clear. Said first display module may include at least one additional bottom rigid surface on the bottom thereof. The back of at least one of the said display modules may have an opening on at least one side to the ambient. The depth of all of said display modules may be no greater than 30 inches deep each. At least one rigid surface from each display module may be on top of said wire or other material structure or frame. The thereafter additional modules may continue to be removeably attached to previously positioned modules so as to allow an unlimited quantity of modules to be placed and removeably attached to one another. At least one of said first and/or second or thereafter additional display module(s) may be made of wire, and/or a wire or other material structure or frame and at least one rigid surface. Said first display module may include a fifth rigid surface on the bottom thereof. The modular display system may further comprise at least one chef table and at least one banquet table, said chef table may be 18 inches deep and said banquet table may be 30 inches deep. Said at least one chef table and/or said at least one banquet table can be 4 and/or 6 and/or 8 feet wide. Said second display module may be made of wire, and/or a wire or other material structure or frame and at least one rigid surface instead of four rigid surfaces. Said tray can be made of acrylic or other material. A single molded piece can be used for the three or more rigid surfaces forming a tray support base upon which tray support plate can be mounted and/or placed. The modular display system may further comprise a device for draining water, said device may be attached to said tray and may consist of at least one of a hole, a flange, and/or a tube. The decorative display panels can be constructed of one of the following materials: glass, plastic, frosted, clear, and/or translucent. Said decorative display panels can be rectangular, planar, curved and/or or other shapes. Said decorative display panels can be joined and/or assembled together using brackets and/or angled brackets and/or Velcro and/or adhesive. The modular display system may further comprise a decoration display module comprising at least three rigid decoration surfaces, a means of joining said rigid decoration surfaces together, and a second or thereafter additional lighting device. Said lighting device and/or additional lighting device(s) can produce said light by an electrical powered lighting device or a chemical lighting device. Said electrical powered lighting device may be composed of one or more LED lights. Said electrical powered lighting device may be controlled by a lighting control module. There can be one or more said electrical powered lighting devices controlled by at least one said lighting control modules. The modular display system may further comprise a means to distribute electrical power from said lighting control module to one or more said electrical powered lighting devices. There can be one or more said lighting control modules. The modular display system may further comprise an on/off switch to power all lighting or a portion thereof. Said lighting control modules can either be powered from wall current or have a battery pack that can be mounted and provides power to lighting control modules without the need for wall power. Said lighting control module may have one or more control functions including dimming control, chasing patterns, color changing, and/or any combination thereof. Switches may control said one or more control functions. The modular display system may further comprise a device that produces sound. The modular display system may further comprise a proximity sensor system capability of detecting the proximity of people. Said rigid surfaces may be composed of any rigid material including wood, metal, plastic, or glass. Said rigid surfaces may be planar and/or curved. The modular display system may further comprise a means to attach said lighting device to said rigid surfaces. Said means may be one or more of Velcro, adhesive, tape, brackets, slots, screw heads, rivets, magnets, snaps, and/or clamps. A single molded piece may form the at least two said rigid surfaces attached together to form said first, second, or thereafter display module(s). A storage container system may be attached to said rigid surfaces. Said first, second, and thereafter additional frames may be made of wire or nonmetal material(s). The modular display system may further comprise of one rigid surface containing at least one internal housing or bracket device securing at least one removeably attached lighting device. Said one rigid surface may have a designated top surface and a designated bottom surface, and said at least one lighting device may be attached to said bottom surface. Said bottom surface may retain said internal housing or said bracket device and face downward. Said at least one lighting device which may be removeably attached to said internal housing or said bracket also may face downward to project light downwards. Said lighting device may have at least one LED light. Said one rigid surface may be attached to or placed upon and/or above at least one frame.

A method for setting up a display system may comprise of at least one of the following steps: (a) preplanning an overall display based on an event and a venue; (b) securing equipment from the venue, said equipment comprising one or more of the following; banquet table(s), chef table(s), dishes, serving utensils, and/or electrical power for space; (c) bringing display modules, having lighting means, and/or glass to the event; (d) arranging the tables to form the display; (e) assembling the display modules in place to form shelves; (f) placing glass on the shelves; (g) turning on the lighting; and/or (h) putting display items on the glass. The method may further comprise a step of spreading out a tablecloth on at least one of the tables prior to assembling the display modules in place to form shelves. The glass may be a frosted glass. The items may be food. The method may further comprise breaking down the display system which may comprise the steps of: (a) removing any remaining items from the glass or rigid surface; (b) turning off the electricity to the module and/or lighting; (c) taking the glass overlays if any off the shelves; (d) disassembling the display modules; (e) removing and/or transporting the display modules and the glass; (f) putting away the tables; and (g) returning any equipment required to be returned.

A method for patron use of a display system may comprise the following step: (a) patron approaching a modular display system and selecting an item and/or items from one or more steps (rigid surfaces and/or glass overlays) of a display module upon which items are presented. The method for patron use of a display system may comprise the additional step of displaying system sensing proximity and triggering sounds and/or lighting control functions.

A method for staff use of a display system may comprise the following steps: (a) assembling a modular display system; (b) placing items for display on one or more display surfaces of the modular display system (in an aesthetically pleasing manner); (c) preparing and/or storing food for replenishing: and (d) replenishing areas where items are removed by patrons

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a jumbo display unit, a three step unit, a four step unit, and a decorative display module, with ice and food being displayed.

FIG. 2 shows seven different modules assembled on three banquet tables with table cloths.

FIG. 3 shows a dramatic display of a lighted system in a venue.

FIG. 4 shows a curved jumbo display unit with lighting.

FIG. 5 shows three and four step display units.

FIG. 6 depicts a decorative display module.

FIG. 7 depicts a side view of a three step unit.

FIG. 8 depicts a side view of a four step unit.

FIG. 9 depicts a banquet table and a chef table.

FIG. 10 is a photograph of many units from behind and above an event.

FIG. 11 depicts a side view of a jumbo cold display module.

FIG. 12 depicts an expanded diagram of the parts of a jumbo cold display module.

FIG. 13 depicts a side view of a jumbo warm or generic display module.

FIG. 14 depicts an expanded diagram of the parts of a jumbo warm or generic display module.

FIGS. 15A and 15B, depict a method for joining some of the rigid surfaces described in the invention with FIG. 15A depicting the rigid surfaces prior to being joined together, and FIG. 15B depicting the rigid surfaces after being joined together.

FIGS. 16A and 16B depict an additional method for joining some of the rigid surfaces described in the invention with FIG. 16A depicting the rigid surfaces prior to being joined together, and FIG. 16B depicting the rigid surfaces after being joined together.

FIG. 17 depicts an expanded diagram of the parts of a three step unit.

FIG. 18 depicts an embodiment of a side view of a decorative display module

FIG. 19 depicts an expanded view of an embodiment of a decorative display module.

KEY COMPONENT LIST

A modular display system

A rigid surface

A lighting device

A frosted clear or translucent surface

Electrical powered lighting devices

Lighting control module

Three step unit

Four step unit

A jumbo cold display unit

Tray for holding solid or liquid material

Drain

A jumbo warm display unit

A jumbo generic display unit

Decorative display module

Bottle holder

Front facade

An additional lighting device

Decoration display module

Decorative display panels

A device for draining water

Velcro and/or adhesive

Brackets

Angled brackets

Chemical lighting device

Lighting control module

Means to distribute electrical power

On/off switch

Battery pack

A device that produces sound

A proximity sensor system

A means to attach said lighting device to said rigid surfaces

A single molded piece

A storage container system

DETAILED DESCRIPTIONS OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a jumbo display unit with ice and food being displayed. To the left of the jumbo display unit is a three step unit. To the right of the jumbo display unit is a three step unit, followed by a four step unit. Behind the three step units are shown a number of decorative display modules. Additionally, FIG. 1 shows the lighting and the frosted clear or translucent surface upon which the food is displayed.

FIG. 2 shows seven different modules assembled on top of three banquet tables. Starting from the left, the following units are displayed: (1) a three step unit, (2) a four step unit, (3) a three step unit, (4) a jumbo display unit, (5) a three step unit, (6) a four stem unit, and (7) a three step unit.

FIG. 3 shows a dramatic display of a lighted system, which includes illumination of the frosted clear or translucent surfaces on the various modules, in a venue.

FIG. 4 shows a curved jumbo display unit with lighting.

FIG. 5 shows a number of different modules. Starting from the left, the following units are shown: (1) a three step unit, (2) a four stem unit, (3) a three step unit, (4) a four stem unit, and (5) a three step unit. Additionally, FIG. 5 shows the source of lighting and illumination of the frosted clear or translucent surfaces.

FIG. 6 depicts a decorative display module 60. Contained within the decorative display module 60 is a lighting device 61, in this case an LED lighting device, with power being fed to the lighting device 61 from a cable 62.

FIG. 7 depicts a side view of an assembled three step unit, and FIG. 17 depicts an expanded diagram of the parts of a three step unit. The first display module is composed of four rigid surfaces, 1, 3, 4, and 5, where rigid surface 3 faces forward, and rigid surfaces 4 and 5 are on their sides. Upon these three rigid surfaces 3, 4, and 5 is placed rigid surface 1. On rigid surface 1 is placed or mounted a frosted material 2, which can be glass or plastic. Placed or mounted on rigid surface 1 is a second display module composed of four rigid surfaces 6, 7, 8, and 9, where rigid surfaces 7, 8, and 9 are mounted or placed upon rigid surface 1. Rigid surface 6 is mounted or placed upon rigid surfaces 7, 8, and 9, forming a step, and rigid surface 6 overlaps rigid surface 7 to form an overhang or canopy. Mounted or attached to rigid surface 6 and mounted under the canopy is a lighting device 10, in this case an LED lighting device, with power being fed from cable 10a. Lighting device 10 illuminates a frosted material 2. On rigid surface 6 is a frosted material 12, which can be glass or plastic. Placed or mounted on rigid surface 6 is a third display module composed of four rigid surfaces 11, 13, 14, and 15, where rigid surfaces 13, 14, and 15 are mounted or placed upon rigid surface 6. Rigid surface 11 is mounted or placed upon 13, 14, and 15, forming a step, and rigid surface 11 overlaps rigid surface 13 to form an overhang or canopy. Mounted or attached to rigid surface 11 and mounted under the canopy is a lighting device 16, in this case an LED lighting device, with power being fed from cable 16a. Lighting device 16 illuminates a frosted material 12.

FIG. 8 depicts a side view of a four step unit that contains the same components as in the three step unit of FIGS. 7 and 17 and additionally includes the following: On rigid surface 11 is a frosted material 18, which can be glass or plastic. Placed or mounted on rigid surface 11 is a fourth display module composed of four rigid surfaces 17, 19, 20, and 21, where rigid surfaces 13, 14, and 15 are mounted or placed upon rigid surface 6. Rigid surface 17 is mounted or placed upon 19, 20, and 21, forming a step, and rigid surface 17 overlaps rigid surface 19 to form an overhang or canopy. Mounted or attached to rigid surface 17 and mounted under the canopy is a lighting device 22, in this case an LED lighting device, with power being feed not shown. Lighting device 22 illuminates a frosted material 18.

FIG. 9 depicts a banquet table 50 and a chef table 51. The depth of banquet table 50A is 30 inches. The depth of the chef table 51A is 18 inches. The width of both chef table and banquet table 52 can be 4 feet, 6 feet or 8 feet, but is not limited to these dimensions.

FIG. 10 is a photograph of many units from behind and above an event.

FIG. 11 depicts a side view of a jumbo cold display module, and FIG. 12 depicts an expanded diagram of the parts of a jumbo display module. A first display module is composed of four rigid surfaces, 34, 35, 36, and 37, where rigid surface 36 faces forward, and rigid surfaces 34 and 35 are on the sides. Upon these three rigid surfaces 34, 35, and 36 is placed rigid surface 37. On rigid surface 37 is placed or mounted a frosted material 38, which can be glass or plastic. Placed or mounted on rigid surface 37 is a second display module composed of four rigid surfaces 39, 40, 41 and 42, where rigid surfaces 39, 40, and 41 are mounted or placed upon rigid surface 37. Rigid surface 42 is mounted or placed upon rigid surfaces 39, 40, and 41, forming a step, and rigid surface 42 overlaps rigid surface 41 to form an overhang or canopy. Mounted or attached to rigid surface 42 and mounted under the canopy is a lighting device 44, in this case an LED lighting device, with power being fed from cable 44a. Lighting device 44 illuminates a frosted material 38. Rigid surface 42 contains a hole or slot within which tray 45 fits. At the bottom of tray 45 is a hole 51, and connected to this hole is a tube 52 for drainage. Mounted upon rigid surface 42 are rigid surfaces 46, 47, 48, and 49, and these can be made from glass or plastic, and can be any or all of the following: frosted, clear, translucent, tinted, and/or colored. Also shown is decorative shape 50, which can be added as deemed necessary. Inside and within the structure bounded by rigid surfaces 46, 47, 48, and 49 is lighting device 43, in this case an LED lighting device, with power being fed from cable 43a, and this lighting device can be mounted vertically, horizontally, or at any other angle as deemed necessary to optimally illuminate the items on display, which is not limited to food.

FIG. 13 depicts a side view of a jumbo warm or generic display module, and FIG. 14 depicts an expanded diagram of the parts of such jumbo warm or generic display module. A first display module is composed of four rigid surfaces, 100, 101, 102, and 103, where rigid surface 102 faces forward, and rigid surfaces 100 and 101 are on the sides. Upon these three rigid surfaces 100, 101, and 102 is placed rigid surface 103. On rigid surface 103 is placed or mounted a frosted material 104, which can be glass or plastic. Placed or mounted on rigid surface 103 is a second display module composed of four rigid surfaces 105, 106, 107 and 108, where rigid surfaces 105, 106, and 107 are mounted or placed upon rigid surface 103. Rigid surface 108 is mounted or placed upon rigid surfaces 105, 106, and 107, forming a step, and rigid surface 108 overlaps rigid surface 107 to form an overhang or canopy. Mounted or attached to rigid surface 108 and mounted under the canopy is a lighting device 109, in this case an LED lighting device, with power being fed from cable 109a. Lighting device 109 illuminates a frosted material 104. Mounted upon rigid surface 108 are rigid surfaces 111, 112, 113, and 114, and these can be made from glass or plastic, and can be any or all of the following: frosted, clear, translucent, tinted, and/or colored. Inside and within the structure bounded by rigid surfaces 111, 112, 113, and 114 is lighting device 110, in this case an LED lighting device, with power being fed from cable 110a, and this lighting device can be mounted vertically, horizontally, or at any other angle as deemed necessary to optimally illuminate the items on display, which is not limited to food. Also, placed upon rigid surface 108 can be a heating device if necessary.

FIGS. 15A and 15B, depict a method for joining some of the rigid surfaces described in the invention with FIG. 15A depicting the rigid surfaces prior to being joined together, and FIG. 15B depicting the rigid surfaces after being joined together. FIG. 15A shows rigid surface 72 prior to attachment to rigid surface 73. Affixed to rigid surface 72 is Velcro strip 70. Affixed to rigid surface 73 is Velcro strip 71. The Velcro strips 70, 71 can be mated. FIG. 15B shows rigid surface 72 and 73 after attachment.

FIGS. 16A and 16B depict an additional method for joining some of the rigid surfaces described in the invention with FIG. 16A depicting the rigid surfaces prior to being joined together, and FIG. 16B depicting the rigid surfaces after being joined together. FIG. 16A depicts rigid surface 80 prior to attachment to rigid surface 82 via bracket 84. Affixed to rigid surface 80 is Velcro strip 81. Affixed to rigid surface 82 is Velcro strip 83. Affixed to bracket 84 is Velcro strips 85, 86. The Velcro strips 81, 83, 85, 86 can be mated as shown after attachment in FIG. 16B.

FIG. 17 depicts an expanded diagram of the parts of an embodiment of a three step display unit. A first display module is composed of three rigid surfaces, 4, 5, and 3, where rigid surface 3 faces forward, and rigid surfaces 4 and 5 are on the sides. Upon these three rigid surfaces 3, 4, and 5 is placed rigid surface 1. On rigid surface 1 is placed or mounted a frosted material 2, which can be glass or plastic. Placed or mounted on rigid surface 1 is a second display module composed of three rigid surfaces 7, 8, and 9. Rigid surface 6 is mounted or placed upon rigid surfaces 7, 8, and 9, forming a step, and rigid surface 6 overlaps rigid surface 7 to form an overhang or canopy. Mounted or attached to rigid surface 6 and mounted under the canopy is a lighting device 10, in this case an LED lighting device, with power being fed from cable 10a. Lighting device 10 illuminates a frosted material 2. On rigid surface 6 is placed or mounted a frosted material 12, which can be glass or plastic. Placed or mounted on rigid surface 6 is a third display module composed of three rigid surfaces 13, 14, and 15, where rigid surface 13 faces forward, and rigid surfaces 14 and 15 are on the sides. Upon these three rigid surfaces 13, 14, and 15 is placed rigid surface 11 forming a step, and rigid surface 11 overlaps rigid surface 13 to form an overhang or canopy. Mounted or attached to rigid surface 11 and mounted under the canopy is a lighting device 16, in this case an LED lighting device, with power being fed from cable 16a. Lighting device 16 illuminates a frosted material 12.

FIG. 18 depicts a side view of another embodiment of a one step display unit, and FIG. 19 depicts an expanded view of this embodiment of a one step display unit. A first display module is composed of three rigid surfaces, 130, 131, and 132, where rigid surface 132 faces forward, and rigid surfaces 130 and 131 are on the sides. Upon these three rigid surfaces 130, 131, and 132 is placed rigid surface 133. On rigid surface 133 is placed or mounted a frosted material 134, which can be glass or plastic. Placed or mounted on rigid surface 133 is a second display module composed of four rigid surfaces 137, 138, 139, and 140, where rigid surface 137 faces forward, rigid surface 140 faces the back, and rigid surfaces 138 and 139 are on the sides. Rigid surfaces 137, 138, 139, and 140 can be made from glass or plastic, and can be any or all of the following: frosted, clear, translucent, tinted, and/or colored or opaque. Inside and within the structure bounded by rigid surfaces 137, 138, 139, and 140 is lighting device 141, in this case an LED lighting device, with power being fed from cable 141a, and this lighting device can be mounted vertically, horizontally, or at any other angle as deemed necessary to optimally illuminate the items on display, which is not limited to food. Bracket 135 is placed under and secured by rigid surface 137, and this forms a canopy under which is mounted a lighting device 136, in this case an LED lighting device, with power being fed from cable 136a. Lighting device 136 illuminates a frosted material 134.

While the instant invention has been shown and described in accordance with preferred and practical embodiments thereof, it is recognized that departures from the instant disclosure are contemplated within the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, the true scope of the invention should not be limited since other modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon a study of the claims, drawings, descriptions, explanations, and specifications herein. It is understood that various changes and modifications can be made within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A modular display system comprising of at least one of the following (i, through vii.):

i.) a first display module having at least one wire, and/or a wire or other material structure or frame and/or at least one flat rigid surface; a second or thereafter additional display module having at least one wire, and/or a wire or other material structure or frame and at least one flat rigid surface; said second or thereafter additional display module being removably attached to or placed upon and/or above the first or previously positioned display module in a gradually upward and setback stepwise fashion; at least one rigid surface of said second or thereafter additional display module extending over said first or previously positioned display module to form a canopy partially overhanging said first or previously positioned display module; and a lighting device secured to said canopy.

and/or ii.) a first display module having at least four rigid surfaces attached together to form a step-like structure; a second and/or thereafter additional display module(s) also having at least four rigid surfaces attached together to form a second step-like structure; said second and/or thereafter additional display module(s) being attached to or placed upon and/or above the first or previously positioned display module in a gradually upward and setback stepwise fashion; at least one rigid surface of said second and/or thereafter additional display module extending over said first or previously positioned display module to form a canopy partially overhanging said first or previously positioned display module; and a lighting device secured to said canopy.

and/or iii.) a first display module having at least four rigid surfaces attached together to form a step-like structure with a second and/or thereafter additional display module also having at least four rigid surfaces attached together to form a second or thereafter additional step-like structure; a lighting device secured to said canopy; a tray capable of for holding liquids and/or solids; an additional lighting device; and one or more clear or frosted decorative display panels being attached or placed upon and/or above said tray and/or said one of four rigid surfaces in said second and/or thereafter additional display module.

and/or iv.) a first display module having at least four rigid surfaces attached together to form a step-like structure and a second and/or thereafter additional display module also having at least four rigid surfaces attached together to form a second step-like structure; one of said four rigid surfaces in any of said display module(s) has a hole and/or area of material removed; at least one rigid surface of said second and/or thereafter additional display module(s) extends over said first or previously positioned display module to form a canopy partially overhanging said first or previously positioned second and/or thereafter additional display module; a lighting device secured to said canopy; a warming, heating, or cooking device; an additional lighting device; and one or more clear or frosted decorative display panels being attached or placed upon and/or above said one of four rigid surface in said second and/or thereafter additional display module(s).

and/or v.) a first display module having at least four rigid surfaces attached together to form a step-like structure; a second and/or thereafter additional display module also having at least four rigid surfaces attached together to form a second and/or thereafter additional step-like structure; at least one rigid surface of said second or thereafter additional display module(s) extend over said first or previously positioned display module(s) to form a canopy partially overhanging said first and/or previously positioned display module(s); a lighting device secured to said canopy; an additional lighting device; and one or more clear or frosted decorative display panels being attached or placed upon and/or above said one of four rigid surfaces in said second and/or thereafter additional display module(s).

and/or vi) a first display module having at least four rigid surfaces attached together to form a step-like structure; a front façade and light support to form a canopy partially overhanging said first display module; a lighting device secured to said canopy; an additional lighting device; and one or more clear or frosted decorative display panels being attached or placed upon and/or above said one of four rigid surfaces in said first display module.

and/or vii.) a first display module having at least one rigid surface attached to a first frame to form a step-like structure; a second or thereafter additional display module also having at least one rigid surface attached to a second or thereafter additional frame to form a second and/or thereafter additional step-like structure; said second or thereafter additional display module being attached to or placed upon and/or above the first and/or previously positioned display module in a gradually upward and setback stepwise fashion; at least one rigid surface of said second or thereafter additional display module extending over said first or previously positioned display module to form a canopy partially overhanging said first and/or previously positioned display module; and a lighting device secured to said canopy.

2. The modular display system of claim 1 wherein at least one of said first display module or second or thereafter additional display module(s) has a surface either made of a frosted material, having a frosted material and/or surface mounted thereon, or having a frosted material and/or surface placed thereon.

3. The modular display system of claim 2 wherein said frosted material and/or surface is at least one of glass, plastic, colored, tinted, translucent, and/or clear.

4. The modular display system of claim 1(i) wherein said first display module includes at least one additional bottom rigid surface on the bottom thereof.

5. The modular display system of claim 1(i), 1(ii), 1(iii), 1(iv), 1(v) and 1(vi) wherein the back of at least one of the said display modules has an opening on at least one side to the ambient.

6. The modular display system of claims 1(i) and 1(ii) wherein the depth of all of said display modules are no greater than 30 inches deep each.

7. The modular display system of claim 1(i) wherein at least one rigid surface from each display module is on top of said wire or other material structure or frame.

8. The modular display system of claim 1(i) wherein the thereafter additional modules can continue to be removeably attached to previously positioned modules so as to allow an unlimited quantity of modules to be placed and removeably attached to one another.

9. The modular display system of claims 1(ii), 1(iv), and 1(v) wherein at least one of said first and/or second or thereafter additional display module(s) can be made of wire, and/or a wire or other material structure or frame and at least one rigid surface.

10. The modular display system of claim 1(ii) wherein said first display module may include a fifth rigid surface on the bottom thereof.

11. The modular display system of claim 1(iii) further comprising at least one chef table and at least one banquet table, said chef table being 18 inches deep and said banquet table being 30 inches deep.

12. The modular display system of claim 11 whereby said at least one chef table and/or said at least one banquet table can be 4 and/or 6 and/or 8 feet wide.

13. The modular display system of claim 1(iii) wherein said second display module is made of wire, and/or a wire or other material structure or frame and at least one rigid surface instead of four rigid surfaces.

14. The modular display system of claim 1(iii) wherein said tray can be made of acrylic or other material.

15. The modular display system of claim 1(iii) wherein a single molded piece can be used for the three or more rigid surfaces forming a tray support base upon which tray support plate can be mounted and/or placed.

16. The modular display system of claim 1(iii) further comprising a device for draining water, said device attached to said tray and consisting of at least one of a hole, a flange, and/or a tube.

17. The modular display system of claims 1(iii), 1(iv), 1(v) and 1(vi) wherein the decorative display panels can be constructed of one of the following materials: glass, plastic, frosted, clear, and/or translucent.

18. The modular display system of claim 17 wherein said decorative display panels can be rectangular, planar, curved and/or or other shapes.

19. The modular display system of claim 18 wherein said decorative display panels can be joined and/or assembled together using brackets and/or angled brackets and/or Velcro and/or adhesive.

20. The modular display system of claim 1(vi) further comprising a decoration display module comprising at least three rigid decoration surfaces, a means of joining said rigid decoration surfaces together, and a second or thereafter additional lighting device.

21. The modular display system of claim 1(vi) wherein said lighting device and/or additional lighting device(s) can produce said light by an electrical powered lighting device or a chemical lighting device.

22. The modular display system of claim 21 wherein said electrical powered lighting device is composed of one or more LED lights.

23. The modular display system of claim 22 wherein said electrical powered lighting device is controlled by a lighting control module.

24. The modular display system of claim 23 wherein there can be one or more said electrical powered lighting devices controlled by at least one said lighting control modules.

25. The modular display system of claim 24 further comprising a means to distribute electrical power from said lighting control module to one or more said electrical powered lighting devices.

26. The modular display system of claim 24 wherein there can be one or more said lighting control modules.

27. The modular display system of claim 26 further comprising an on/off switch to power all lighting or a portion thereof.

28. The modular display system of claim 27 wherein said lighting control modules can either be powered from wall current or have a battery pack that can be mounted and provides power to lighting control modules without the need for wall power.

29. The modular display system of claim 28 wherein said lighting control module has one or more control functions including dimming control, chasing patterns, color changing, and/or any combination thereof.

30. The modular display system of claim 29 wherein switches control said one or more control functions.

31. The modular display system of claim 1(vi) further comprising a device that produces sound.

32. The modular display system of claim 29 further comprising a proximity sensor system capability of detecting the proximity of people.

33. The modular display system of claim 1 wherein said rigid surfaces are composed of any rigid material including wood, metal, plastic, or glass.

34. The modular display system of claim 1 wherein said rigid surfaces are planar and/or curved.

35. The modular display system of claim 1 further comprising a means to attach said lighting device to said rigid surfaces.

36. The modular display system of claim 35 wherein said means is one or more of Velcro, adhesive, tape, brackets, slots, screw heads, rivets, magnets, snaps, and/or clamps.

37. The modular display system of claim 1 wherein a single molded piece forms the at least two said rigid surfaces attached together to form said first, second, or thereafter display module(s).

38. The modular display system of claim 1(ii) wherein a storage container system is attached to said rigid surfaces.

39. The modular display system of claim 1(vii) wherein said first, second, and thereafter additional frames are made of wire or nonmetal material(s).

40. The modular display system of claim 1(vii) further comprising of one rigid surface containing at least one internal housing or bracket device securing at least one removeably attached lighting device.

41. The modular display system of claim 40 wherein said one rigid surface has a designated top surface and a designated bottom surface, and said at least one lighting device is attached to said bottom surface.

42. The modular display system of claim 41 wherein said bottom surface retains said internal housing or said bracket device and faces downward.

43. The modular display system of claim 40 wherein said at least one lighting device which is removeably attached to said internal housing or said bracket also faces downward to project light downwards.

44. The modular display system of claim 40 wherein said lighting device has at least one LED light.

45. The modular display system of claim 40 wherein said one rigid surface is attached to or placed upon and/or above at least one frame.

46. A method for setting up a display system comprising of at least one of the following steps:

a) preplanning an overall display based on an event and a venue;

b) securing equipment from the venue, said equipment comprising one or more of the following; banquet table(s), chef table(s), dishes, serving utensils, and/or electrical power for space;

c) bringing display modules, having lighting means, and/or glass to the event;

d) arranging the tables to form the display;

e) assembling the display modules in place to form shelves;

f) placing glass on the shelves;

g) turning on the lighting;

h) putting display items on the glass.

47. The method of claim 46 further comprising a step of spreading out a tablecloth on at least one of the tables prior to step e of claim 46.

48. The method of claim 46 wherein the glass is a frosted glass.

49. The method of claim 46 wherein the items are food.

50. The method of claim 46 further comprising breaking down the display system comprising the steps of:

a) removing any remaining items from the glass or rigid surface;

b) turning off the electricity to the module and/or lighting;

c) taking the glass overlays if any off the shelves;

d) disassembling the display modules;

e) removing and/or transporting the display modules and the glass;

f) putting away the tables; and

g) returning any equipment required to be returned.

51. A method for patron use of a display system comprising the following step:

a) patron approaching a modular display system and selecting an item and/or items from one or more steps (rigid surfaces and/or glass overlays) of a display module upon which items are presented.

52. The method of claim 51 comprising the additional step of:

a) the display system sensing proximity and triggering sounds and/or lighting control functions.

53. A method for staff use of a display system comprising the following steps:

a) assembling a modular display system;

b) placing items for display on one or more display surfaces of the modular display system (in an aesthetically pleasing manner);

c) preparing and/or storing food for replenishing: and

d) replenishing areas where items are removed by patrons