Modular Patents (Class 40/605)
  • Patent number: 5218775
    Abstract: A display device hooked to a signboard comprises a placard and a connecting member fixed to the signboard for hooking the placard which is provided with a L-shaped slot extending from the upper edge of the placard. The connecting member is characterized by a forwardly projecting stem adjacent one edge and an abutment member forwardly projecting from the signboard and located below the stem and further remote from the lateral edge which is adjacent the stem. The L-shape slot in the placard is adapted to engage the stem while the placard is in a tilted position and the abutment member is adapted to abut on the above-mentioned edge when the placard is pivoted in a vertical position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1993
    Inventor: Jacques J. Singer
  • Patent number: 5172504
    Abstract: An improved front-mount grid display having preassembled display panels with trim strips adhered to the edges of the display panel boards. The trim strips protect the edges of the board, and have lips overlying the perimeters of the front faces of the boards to present a neat and finished appearance. The trim strips are adhered to the board edges by double-sided adhesive tape. The trip strips may have rear flanges overlying the perimeter of the rear faces of the board, and the display panels may include transparent panes. Also disclosed is a grid display construction in which two grid displays are arranged back-to-back with one or more sign panels extending outwardly from the grid displays and having portions entrapped and supported between the grid displays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 22, 1992
    Assignee: Grid-Graphics Services Corporation
    Inventors: H. Thomas De Maat, H. Jay Schoeppe, II
  • Patent number: 5159772
    Abstract: A lighted display sign with a moulded base having a channel forming a character, an electrical means for exciting a neon gas in the channel to emit light, electrical contacts extending from the base to connect to a power source and a second pair of electrical contacts extending from the base to connect to a second display sign.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1990
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1992
    Inventor: George E. Akaley
  • Patent number: 5115855
    Abstract: An improved hinge for portable multi-panel display systems, wherein the display system is formed by a plurality of individual composite panels having a cellular paperboard core the periphery of which has a relatively rigid, higher-density edging. The edging is adapted to receive either a flexible hinge for linking panels or an edge trim piece to form a finished periphery for a display system. The flexible hinge is a living hinge with two webs having parallel lines of weakness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1992
    Assignee: Skyline Displays, Inc.
    Inventors: Curtis Lindblom, Michael W. Kirchner
  • Patent number: 5107637
    Abstract: A shelter structure includes a photovoltaic illumination system. A pair of translucent, spaced-apart panels define an interior volume which houses and protects the lamps, batteries and illumination circuitry of the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1992
    Assignee: B & E Energy Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Steven Robbins
  • Patent number: 5090145
    Abstract: Photo hanging and display apparatus including an upper rod-like member 10 having specially configured slots 24 and 26 running along the top and bottom portions thereof, hanging members 20 and 22 including wires or cables 38 with attachment loops affixed to one end and a slot engaging clip 36 attached to the other for engaging the upper slot 24 of the upper rod. Flexible strips 50 and 54 of edging material are provided for attachment to the upper edge of the sheet 16 (18) to be hung, the edging strips being configured to mate with and slide into the lower slot 26 of the upper member 10. An elongated lower rod-like member 12 also has a specifically configured slot 62 formed in its upper surface which is adapted to receive engaging strips 60 affixed to the lower edge of the sheet (18).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 25, 1992
    Inventors: Sai M. Chiang, Don Newman
  • Patent number: 5038506
    Abstract: An integrated, modular display system for conveying information in a unified theme is disclosed. The display system comprises a plurality of display panels capable of conveying information, a plurality of frames corresponding in size to the plurality of display panels for receiving at least one of the display panels to support the panels, and a plurality of display bodies for supporting at least one of the frames. The display panels, frames and display bodies are adapted to be combined to form a plurality of individual display units, and a portion of the display panels forming one display unit are interchangeable with a portion of the display panels forming another display unit. In the system, the display panels and frames are provided in groups of several similarly sized display panels and frames.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1991
    Assignee: Ameritrust Company National Association
    Inventors: Lance Liljeqvist, Thomas Pendleton
  • Patent number: 5024015
    Abstract: A portable advertisement display utilizing a plurality of lightweight panels pivotally interconnected by hinges. The panels themselves are constructed of a polystyrene core located intermediate two rigid pressboard panels. Such material is very lightweight but will not accommodate direct connection of hinges. A channel member is secured to selected lateral edges of each panel to provide a stable base on which to connect the hinges. Each panel is sheathed in fabric characteristic of the looped facing of hook-and-loop adhesive material. The panels may be detachably connected in vertical orientation of one another by magnetic strips located on the upper and lower marginal edge of each panel. Advertisement items such as signs or placards are attached to the present invention with strips of fabric characteristic of the hooked portion of hook-and-loop adhesive material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 18, 1991
    Inventor: William B. Quarles, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5016374
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for receiving essentially planar products, preferably graphic products, which includes two or several frames. Each frame can receive two such products and is formed by four frame members with a longitudinal first flange and a second flange located at one longitudinal narrow side of the first flange. A product inserted into the frame engages the first flanges of the four frame members with its one side and abuts the other flanges with its side edges. The frames are sidewardly hingedly interconnected by means of band-shaped hinges, these band-shaped hinges being designed with two ends and provided with a resilient folding or bending at each end, which is arranged to be received and/or restrained between two opposing walls defining a space in a respective frame member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1991
    Assignee: Ahlberg & Co. AB
    Inventor: Carl-Otto Engstrom
  • Patent number: 5012603
    Abstract: A modular sign system is disclosed in which signs having various thicknesses can be adjustably mounted on a post. The system comprising a post which has a longitudinally extending slot into which a sign or a plurality of nesting components can be accommodated. Each nesting component can be accommodated to receive either a sign of lesser thickness or another nesting component which may form a spacer between several signs or may itself hold a sign of appropriate thickness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 7, 1991
    Assignee: Esselte Letraset Limited
    Inventor: Kenneth W. A. Elcock
  • Patent number: 4977696
    Abstract: A display rack consists of flat pane display frames to be interconnected by coupling members. The frames comprise corner pieces and side frame members of extruded profiled tubes with two parallel tube portions and two longitudinal grooves in the plane of the display frame. The corner pieces have at least two pairs of parallel legs to be inserted and adopted by the tube portions. Of the longitudinal grooves at least one externally located groove of each display frame has an external opening narrower than the rest of the groove to prevent a dowel member introduced into the groove from passing out transversely. The corner pieces have cavities in the extension of the recessed grooves to permit the dowel members to be passed through the corner piece and into said recessed groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 18, 1990
    Inventor: Gert A. Johansson
  • Patent number: 4959763
    Abstract: A display frame system comprises hexagonal or octagonal posts and strut assemblies which connect the posts to each other. The posts may be positioned in any of a variety of arrangements depending upon the available space and type of display to be erected. Once the posts have been connected to each other, panels carrying advertising material may be slipped into slots in the posts. The posts are arranged so that each post has a slot which faces a corresponding slot on an adjacent post. Opposite edges of the advertising material are received in the slots in each posts. The display frame system also includes a variety of illumination panels. These are panels which are also mounted between opposing slots in the posts and which carry light fixtures which can either illuminate advertising material from behind or from above, depending upon the configuration of the illumination panel and the arrangement of the posts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 25, 1990
    Assignee: Import-Export, Research & Development, Inc.
    Inventor: George T. Baggott
  • Patent number: 4949490
    Abstract: This invention is concerned with a reinforced panel device which is useful in the display and furniture arts. The reinforced panel device consist of a base and a header. By placement of the header on the base the various panel sections which make up the base are locked into a plumar relationship with each other. the base section of the reinforced panel device comprises a plurality of panel sections which are pivotly connected to each other. The header may comprise a single panel section or a plurality of panel sections which are pivotly connected to each other. The header may be permanently or detachably attached to the base. In accordance with the preferred embodiment the header is attached to the base via a connector plug having a camming end and a hook end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 1986
    Date of Patent: August 21, 1990
    Assignee: Channel-Kor Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Melvin M. Miller
  • Patent number: 4926294
    Abstract: A box-like display header that is foldable to a flat orientation for transportation and storage. The header is mountable to an upper portion of a display frame and may include a fluorescent lamp to illuminate the display frame or provide a back lighting for various graphic symbols which may be imprinted on the display header.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1985
    Date of Patent: May 15, 1990
    Assignee: Skyline Displays, Inc.
    Inventors: Bryan J. Beaulieu, Gary R. Sorenson
  • Patent number: 4916840
    Abstract: A modular sign system designed for use by real estate agents, remodeling contractors, political candidates and private individuals made up of separate frame modules which are easily transported to the installation site in the trunk or back seat of a normal passenger car. Once on site, the individual modules can be assembled into a completed sign and installed with little effort and no tools. After use, the sign can be broken down into component modules for easy transportation and storage until its next use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 17, 1990
    Inventor: Alan J. Getz
  • Patent number: 4912866
    Abstract: A display structure is disclosed comprising rectangular panels each having at its upper edge a cross member (7) providing an upwardly open channel (80) which receives a central formation (68) of a retaining member (54) which provides, at its upper end, on opposite sides, respective downwardly open channels (60). In a lowered position of the retaining member, the outer wall (62) of each channel (60) extends on the outer side of the member (7) and can serve to retain the upper edge of a respective display card fitted in the panel. The releasing member can be raised, then tilted, while being held captive on the member (7) by an enlarged lower end part (76, 78) of the central formation which cannot pass between flanges (82) on member (7), to a position to one side of the respective side face of member (7) to allow vertical insertion or removal of the display card or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 3, 1990
    Assignee: Marler Haley Exposystems Limited
    Inventors: Brian C. Bannister, James N. Morgan
  • Patent number: 4870769
    Abstract: A frame member having first and second faces at right angles to one another and recesses in the faces for receiving panels or the like for producing a sign having the frame members as a surround. Each face has at least two recesses and the sign can be in the form of a cuboid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1988
    Date of Patent: October 3, 1989
    Assignee: Signaid Limited
    Inventor: David P. Ogilvie
  • Patent number: 4864757
    Abstract: A portable sign kit includes components for quickly and conveniently erecting lightweight signs, e.g. real estate sales and similar signs. The components include an open wire frame with a prejecting mounting stud. A rigid sign panel is received within the periphery of the frame. The rigid panel is retained within the frame by specially shaped moldings which snappably attach to the frame sides and extend inwardly to retain corresponding abutting edges of the rigid sign panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 1988
    Date of Patent: September 12, 1989
    Inventor: Terry E. Lovett
  • Patent number: 4831759
    Abstract: A wrap around valance system physically mounted to the top of a convenience store interior wall system, beneath the ceiling, is formed of end abutting, horizontally aligned, standard size interchangeable illuminated and non-illuminated modules of fabricated sheet metal formed with open front windows slidably mounting respectively, color display photo panels and color graphic decor panels. The non-illuminated modules have at least two sets of top and bottom facing open ended horizontal slots so that a color graphic display card may be superimposed over the color graphic decor panel to display temporary or seasonal information. A continuous wiring system is formed within the end to end coupled modules with electrical junction boxes mounted, respectively to opposite end walls of each illuminated module leading to a fluorescent lamp mounted internally of the illuminated module housings for backlighting of the photo panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 23, 1989
    Assignee: Ashland Oil, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard E. Hosey
  • Patent number: 4794712
    Abstract: A portable display device for displaying educational material or student's work comprising a plurality of panels, each panel separated from the next adjacent panel by a score line to permit relative movement between adjacent panels, each panel comprising a base portion including a first and second corrugated substantially rigid section separated by a substantially rigid member and a writing surface adhered to the outer surface of the first corrugated substantially rigid section, the score line formed between adjacent panels extending entirely through the second corrugated substantially rigid section and a portion of the first corrugated substantially rigid section such that adjacent panels may be folded relative to each other for storage and transport or extended relative to each other for display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 3, 1989
    Assignee: Showboard, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald L. Wood
  • Patent number: 4790091
    Abstract: A portable yard sign has an upstanding rigid post with a longitudinal slot extending downwardly from its top edge, and a main sign panel having a foldable side edge corresponding to and insertable into the slot for securing the panel to the post. The post on its bottom end may have a ground stake and foot plate assembly for penetration into a soil bed upon application of foot pressure on the plate. The panel remote from its side edge is free of connection to the post and is bendable at the side edge responsive to wind and other pressure against the panel. The slot may be arranged on one side of the post and the post may be triangular in cross-section. The panel side edge is of a width suitable to permit it to be lodged against the post when it is secured in the post slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1987
    Date of Patent: December 13, 1988
    Inventor: Jack W. Hull
  • Patent number: 4787687
    Abstract: A mechanical device for displaying newspapers for self-service free access by prospective readers is provided in modular form, which in one preferred embodiment may sufficiently resemble the newsrack from which USA TODAY newspapers are vended as to cause prospective newspaper readers to make the connection. In the preferred embodiment the construction is modular, including at least one open-front, open-top box body-like bin with an interior back panel. The bin may be mounted on a pedestal or on a countertop, or it may be hung from a wall. Other similar bins may be stacked on the first and connected with it. A header panel, upstanding at the top rear of the uppermost bin may be used for a display copy of the paper. The bins preferably are molded of structural framed plastic resin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1987
    Date of Patent: November 29, 1988
    Assignee: Gannett Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Milton J. Merl
  • Patent number: 4785565
    Abstract: Display panels for ready assembly and disassembly to form walls or shelves particularly suitable for trade show displays and the like, have sections of elongated cylindrical metal tubing having a first channel attached to edges of the panels to be used in the display. An internal expandable open groove is provided in the metal tubing for receiving a flat connecting member with ribs on opposite edges thereof to snap-fit into and engage the groove in the metal tubing. Connecting members then are used to interconnect the sections of tubing attached to adjacent edges of different panels to permit assembly and disassembly of the various panels without the use of any tools, while providing a rigid display section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1987
    Date of Patent: November 22, 1988
    Inventor: Reinhold O. Kuffner
  • Patent number: 4761902
    Abstract: A support assembly for facilitating the hanging or display of a picture, preferably provided in the form of an unassembled kit, includes a plurality of separate relatively rigid elongate channel-like grid members preferably identical in construction and a plurality of attachment members preferably in the form of double-sided, acid free adhesive strips for attaching the grid members to the back of a picture. Each grid member has a plurality of slots defined at uniformly spaced locations therealong for facilitating the breaking off of an end portion thereof to provide the grid member matched in length to a dimension, such as the length or width, of the picture. A plurality of spaced apart rupturable webs are provided which span each slot and integrally interconnect portions of the grid member that define opposite sides of each slot so as to reinforce the grid members at the locations of the slots.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 9, 1988
    Assignees: John F. Hoffman, Albert L. Jeffers
    Inventors: Marc A. Lansky, Philip M. Clemens
  • Patent number: 4757623
    Abstract: A sign in accordance with this invention comprises a pair of end members, with each end member having a longitudinal groove, and with each of the end members having a foot portion configured such that the respective longitudinal groove bears approximately a 15.degree. relationship to the vertical. The longitudinal groove in one of the end members faces the longitudinal groove in the end member such that respective ends of a generally rectangular sign of appropriate thickness may be closely received in these grooves. Importantly, the groove in each of the end members is of dual width, with one portion of each such groove being wide and of comparatively shallow depth, whereas another portion of each of the grooves is comparatively narrow, and of greater depth. Because of this arrangement, elongate panel members of either of two different thicknesses can be readily received in a tight fitting manner in appropriate portions of the grooves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1987
    Date of Patent: July 19, 1988
    Inventor: Alvin W. Seyler
  • Patent number: 4722146
    Abstract: A portable display unit including a plurality of panels hingedly connected along adjacent vertical sides with an upper set of panels connected by a single resiliently compressible fastener extending from frame to frame of vertically adjacent panels. A frame assembly for each panel provides sufficient structural support for panels having lightweight foam cores and adhesively attached outer sheets. Fabric hinges permit a set of panels to be stacked closely, without disassembly, for storage and shipment. Individual panel faces are replaceable and the interior of a panel unit may be illuminated in one embodiment of the invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1986
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1988
    Inventor: Matthias D. Kemeny
  • Patent number: 4711046
    Abstract: A multi-panel display comprises a plurality of rectangular panels formed of a foam core laminate interconnected at adjacent side edges by flexible plastic strip hinges formed of resilient sheet material and fastened in slots in the adjacent side edges of the panels. The outer edges of the panels include longitudinal slots that extend around the outer periphery of the panel display. The front and back surfaces of the panel display are covered by a loop fastener fabric, with the ends of the fabric on the front and back surfaces extending over the outer edges of the panel display and tucking into the slots around the periphery of the panel display so as to conceal the ends of the fabric. Separate panel display sections can be interconnected by stiff splines that fit in the slots in opposing edges of display sections placed edge-to-edge on top of each other. Panel display sections can be interconnected horizontally by hook fabric strips inserted in the outer side edges of the panel displays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1985
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1987
    Inventor: Donald E. Herrgord
  • Patent number: 4707940
    Abstract: A kit for forming a variable sized bay-shaped display comprises rear well sections coupled together, bay dividers formed of hinged panels, and end caps covering the hinge of the divider to which it is attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1986
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1987
    Assignee: Trans-World Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventor: Robert P. Franklin
  • Patent number: 4698928
    Abstract: A sign holder assembly which is adapted to be slidably mounted on various supports by means of open longitudinal cylindrical recesses with parallel walls along the opening of the recess, and extending necks with longitudinal cylindrical projections at the end. The projections are receivable in the recesses and the parallel walls being the necks so that there is little pivoting between the sign and its support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 1985
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1987
    Assignee: Esselte Pendaflex Corporation
    Inventor: Andrzej L. Soporowski
  • Patent number: 4685233
    Abstract: A portable yard sign adapted for easy storage, transport and assembly, which is simple to install and remove from a soil bed, without special equipment, and which consists of a rigid upright post having a longitudinal slot extending downwardly from its top edge, and a main sign panel having a foldable side edge corresponding to and insertable into the slot for securing the panel to the post, the post having on its bottom end a ground stake and foot plate assembly for penetration into the soil bed upon application of foot pressure thereon. The main panel foldable side edge may be formed by scoring an edge of the panel and cutting tabs along the folded edge, or by connecting a hinged member along an edge of the panel. A modified embodiment of the invention may utilize an inverted L shaped post with the slot for receiving an edge of the sign panel formed in the post leg parallel to the ground and the sign panel hanging from the post leg toward the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1985
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1987
    Inventor: Jack W. Hull
  • Patent number: 4679341
    Abstract: A modular display apparatus for receiving and displaying sign panels, in which panel support elements co-operate with elevated ridges and frame overlay members to form sign panel regions in which the sign panels may be deployed. Panel insert slots are formed at one end of the panel sign region where no elevated ridge is positioned, through the overlay of a frame strut; the insert slot serving as an insertion aperture for the facilitated receipt and/or removal of the sign panel. A back cover plate member is integrated into the support panel and insert locking devices are provided to maintain the sign panel in place, within the sign display region, by precluding inadvertent removal through the insert slot. A "stepped" or staggered configuration of a number of such sign panels as well as a back-lit light transmitting embodiment are further described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1985
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1987
    Assignee: Mercury Plastics, Inc.
    Inventor: John G. Goldman
  • Patent number: 4656766
    Abstract: Describes a modular display system which includes a plurality of side members and a base portion for each of the side members. A support surface is formed on each of the base portions and a pair of spaced parallel legs are associated with each such side member and project at right angles to its respective support surface providing a channel therebetween. Also provided are a plurality of bracket members, each of which has a portion thereof within the channel of adjacent side members. Fasteners are further provided for maintaining the bracket members within respective channels whereby the side members are interconnected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1985
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1987
    Inventor: Donald S. Cooper
  • Patent number: 4655352
    Abstract: An expandable and contractible frame, for a display rack, which comprises moveable telescoping sides and an extendible top valance which are placed against and supported by an existing display such as a perforated board and a base such as a store gondola. The frame can be adjusted for the most advantageous display of merchandise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1985
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1987
    Assignee: Duracell Inc.
    Inventors: Androus D. Noyes, Joseph T. Ricci
  • Patent number: 4642926
    Abstract: A panel system for exhibits comprises a plurality of upright rigid supporting members with generally planar members releasably connected on opposite sides to two adjacent supporting members. Each panel has an intermediate portion and along the two opposed edges are respective flange portions extending in opposite directions from said intermediate portion. This panel configuration enables the panels to be stacked in nesting fashion. Also provided are easily demountable header and lighting fixture subassemblies adapted to be affixed to the rigid members. Means are provided for detachably supporting horizontal rigid members upon the vertical rigid members and in other combinations as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1983
    Date of Patent: February 17, 1987
    Assignee: General Exhibits
    Inventor: Arthur L. Friedman
  • Patent number: 4642946
    Abstract: A modular display system is provided having a series of floor platforms which are secured together in edge-to-edge contact, by "plug-in" locks at the corners of two or more platforms. The locks engage floor frames below floor panels, through notches or cutout areas at the corners of the panels. Each lock engages at least two frames at their adjoining corners by downwardly projecting prongs, which preferably seat in the interior corner angles of the frames. The lock fits in the contiguous panel cutouts so that it is flush with the surface of the panels. Vertical columns may upstand from the locks, to support light boxes, shelving, tables, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1985
    Date of Patent: February 17, 1987
    Assignee: Adex, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles P. Koch
  • Patent number: 4637153
    Abstract: A unique multiple configuration display sign system including a selection of a sign unit supporting and interconnecting hardware and standard sign units of special size, shape and construction as to be capable of use in any one of a multiplicity of display configurations through use of such hardware. The sign unit supporting and interconnecting hardware includes top side and bottom side linking brackets, linking plates or wall hanger brackets for abutting together one or more vertical sides of the sign units to form a selected sign configuration. The sign units supporting and interconnecting hardware integrated within an assembled display configuration to conceal such hardware so that the joined sign units appear to be free standing and unsupported by any visible structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1984
    Date of Patent: January 20, 1987
    Assignee: Kane Graphical Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Kane, Lawrence R. Hogan
  • Patent number: 4604820
    Abstract: A modular sign including a rectangular frame supporting an assembly of interlocking panel members. The ends of the members extend into channels on the sides of the frame, the bottom member snap locks the bead on the bottom of the frame, and a top member removably secures the assembly in the frame and includes a roof extending across the top of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1985
    Date of Patent: August 12, 1986
    Assignee: Build-A-Sign, Inc.
    Inventor: David C. Edman
  • Patent number: 4602448
    Abstract: A lighted display panel system including apparatus for distributing fluorescent light through a lens having a transparency thereon. The apparatus comprises an open-sided housing having a cavity therein for receiving a plurality of fluorescent bulbs in spaced proximity to an undulant reflector. The undulant reflector is located within the housing cavity and specifically designed to provide an optimal Kelvin rating as the fluorescent light from the bulbs is reflected therefrom and passes through the lens covering the housing cavity. The apparatus is incorporated into the lighted display system by a plurality of connection bars, connection rods, and an electrical buss bar. A method of assembling the lighted display panel system is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 1984
    Date of Patent: July 29, 1986
    Inventor: Harry R. Grove
  • Patent number: 4583311
    Abstract: A pair of horizontally-spaced vertically upright facing channel members are fixably mounted to an underlying horizontal support. An elongated planar base member has longitudinally spaced holes receiving the vertically upright facing channel members and rests on the horizontal support. Brackets affixed to the inside faces of the channel members mount an elongated planar cap member may be identical to and the mirror image of the planar base member at a vertically spaced position above the base member, being slidably lowered on the channel members, through the longitudinally spaced holes therein. A first endless loop sign is positioned in an axially upright position with its edges in vertical grooves near the peripheries of the base and cap members and sandwiched therebetween to form a first visual display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1985
    Date of Patent: April 22, 1986
    Assignee: Ashland Oil, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard E. Hosey, Ervan E. Rich
  • Patent number: 4574506
    Abstract: In a display or the like device, a flexible sheet is supported in tension within a frame by means of tensioning devices secured to the frame. Each tensioning device includes a movable peg which is engaged in an aperture in the sheet. Each peg can be placed in a position nearer the middle of the space within the frame in which it is retained, or displaced away from the middle of this space, to tension the sheet, and when so displaced, the peg is urged resiliently away from the middle of this space by a spring within the respective tensioning device, to hold the sheet in tension. The tensioning devices thus constitute a simple and compact means of providing for ready interchangability of various display areas in the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1984
    Date of Patent: March 11, 1986
    Assignee: Marler Haley Exposystems Limited
    Inventor: James N. Morgan
  • Patent number: 4571869
    Abstract: A breakdown type signboard includes at least one elongated "U" shaped panel and two side members with the side members having tenons and with the legs of the "U" shaped panel having mortise elements for interfitting with the tenons. The tensons may be partly hollow to receive a screw or other enlarging element to lock the "U" shaped panel to the side members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 1984
    Date of Patent: February 25, 1986
    Inventor: Georges Huel
  • Patent number: 4569143
    Abstract: A display device comprises a plurality of frames each comprising two uprights and two cross members, bounding a rectangular space in which a rectangular flexible sheet is supported in tension by tensioning devices displaced in the corners of the frame. Laterally adjoining frames are pivotally connected together by links and engage one another via masking gear segments mounted on the tensioning devices. Vertically superimposed frames are connected together by connectors each connecting, end to end, the lower end of one upright of an upper frame and the axially aligned upper end of a lower frame. Each connector comprises an upper peg, a lower peg and an axially slidable and rotatable sleeve captive on the upper peg and capable of being screwed down over the lower peg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1984
    Date of Patent: February 11, 1986
    Assignee: Marler Haley ExpoSystems Limited
    Inventor: Brian C. Bannister
  • Patent number: 4566211
    Abstract: A free-standing or hanging knock-down-type modular display apparatus embodies a plurality of display panel-supporting frames hingedly interconnected side-to-side by one or more flexible and detachable unitary hinge-connectors allowing adjacent frames to be incrementally folded about a vertical axis. The adjacent frames have side-rails, each such rail having an outer peripheral face with openings into which the hinge-connectors may be inserted and detachably engaged. The hinge-connectors comprise a flexible central portion operatively extending between adjacent frames, i.e., from the outer peripheral face of a first frame side-rail, across a connective region between the frames, and into the outer peripheral face of a second adjacent frame side-rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1984
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1986
    Assignee: Dahlstrom Display, Inc.
    Inventors: John A. Gustafson, D. Richard Dahlstrom
  • Patent number: 4561550
    Abstract: A kit for making a multi-bay display is disclosed. The kit includes a continuous rear wall, a plurality of bay dividers and means for attaching the bay dividers to the rear wall to form a multi-bay display. Each of the bay dividers includes first and second panels hingedly connected to one another, at least one extension member and means for coupling the extension member to a respective panel in a manner which permits the effective length of the panels to be adjusted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1983
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1985
    Assignee: Trans-World Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventor: Robert P. Franklin
  • Patent number: 4545142
    Abstract: An improved display framing apparatus including panel frame members for bordering individual display panels and connecting frame members for joining panel assemblies as a booth, exhibit or other display assembly. The connecting frame members extend vertically intermediate adjacent panel assemblies and each provides two or more receiving channels into which jaw arrangements extending from horizontally disposed panel frame members are inserted and engaged. Each jaw arrangement includes a pair of pivotably connected jaw members between which is disposed a slide member movable toward and away from the pivot axis of the jaw members respectively for permitting their movement toward one another for insertion and removal from the associated channel and for actuating their movement apart for gripping engagement interiorly of the associated channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 1984
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1985
    Inventor: Hubert E. Whisnant
  • Patent number: 4543759
    Abstract: A mimic panel is formed by a series of like aluminum strip members. The strip members B are slid through the strip members A and rotated 90.degree. into the position shown in the drawing. Some of the intersections of the members A and B are spot welded together. Mimic tiles 18 are then placed in the structure and held in position by spring clips 20. There are 1600 mimic tiles per square meter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 1983
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1985
    Assignee: Mosaic King (PTY) Ltd
    Inventor: Helmuth H. Rohrer
  • Patent number: 4510707
    Abstract: Connectable picture frame units are disclosed. The picture frame units are in the form of a rectangular sheet of rigid material with a raised rim on the front encircling a space for a picture. A snap attachment ring snaps onto the raised rim and holds the picture in the frame unit. Raised pins are disposed on the back of the picture frame units and are received in assembly links in order to connect the picture frame units. The units can be connected in rectangular and diagonal fashion to form borders, frames, Christmas wreaths, multiple displays, and decorative swags for Christmas and other occasions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1982
    Date of Patent: April 16, 1985
    Inventor: Leroy Girard
  • Patent number: 4505061
    Abstract: This invention comprises a display especially suitable for a large system, such as a utility distribution network diagram, a map, or the like, which is subject to frequent revision. The complete display is made up of a multiplicity of small display members arranged in abutting relationship, which can be revised and replaced individually as necessary to keep the entire display up-to-date, without the necessity of replacing the complete display. A frame having an array of apertures, each smaller than one display member, supports the entire display. Each display member has attached to its back at least one mounting unit which is removably receivable in one of the apertures in the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 1983
    Date of Patent: March 19, 1985
    Assignee: Datapic Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Werner Neuburger, Martin P. Gabor
  • Patent number: 4497125
    Abstract: A wall display device, particularly suitable for displaying record albums including a plurality of blocks, one for each corner of the album having upper vertical corner channels to hold the bottom corners of the album and vertical side channels to hold the upper corners of the album where each block can support the corners of four different albums.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1983
    Date of Patent: February 5, 1985
    Inventor: Daniel M. Hutchinson
  • Patent number: 4481729
    Abstract: A display panel structure includes a pair of longitudinally spaced vertically adjustable posts provided at their bottoms with mounting clamps and at their tops with transverse support rods terminating in short upright legs which engage apertures in coupling lugs projecting inwardly from rectangularly arranged corner members and tie rods extend between and separably engage diagonally spaced corner members. Fascia panels extend between each pair of corner members and have in their rear faces keyhole slots which releasably engage enlarged head coupling elements projecting outwardly from the corner members. A bracket is vertically adjustably mounted on each post and carries for transverse adjustment an arm terminating in a coupling element carrying plate and a fascia panel extends between the plates and has keyhole slots engaging the coupling elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1983
    Date of Patent: November 13, 1984
    Assignee: Thomson-Leeds Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter J. Weiller