Abstract: A quick set-up sign stand comprising first and second leg structures each having a non-circular circumferential locking central portion and ground-engaging portions, the leg structures pivotally mounted to face plates, the face plates secured in spaced apart relationship for receiving the sign and a leg-locking latch secured in moveable relationship to the plates for selectively locking the legs in a support position is disclosed.

Abstract: A sign support comprising a pair of pivot leg assemblies secured along the bottom on the respective sides of the sign, a receptor for a sign which removably locks the sign to the support and a flag staff support for securement to the edge of the sign are disclosed.

Abstract: A sign for attaching to a vehicle. In the illustrated embodiment, a flexible sign requesting road service has a sleeve which allows the sign to be readily attached to the antennae of the vehicle. A second sleeve receives a stiffening member to ensure the readability of the sign. When not in use, the sign may be readily folded or rolled for compact storage.

Abstract: An interlocking stackable, plastic barricade includes two identical integrally molded plastic panels which are hinged to pivot around a common axis. Each panel includes at the left and right edges a pair of interlocking elements--one being a protrusion at one edge and the other an indentation at the other. When the barricades are stacked, this pair of interlocking elements mate together to form a stable stack.

Abstract: A construction or emergency sign with a changeable message on its front surface. The sign has a diamond shape or a square shape and one or more flaps are secured along the central diagonal of the sign. The flaps are adapted to be releasably fastened to either of two opposite corners of the sign and have messages on both sides. When the flaps are secured in one corner, a first message is presented and when the flaps are secured in the other corner, a second message is presented. A pair of cross-braces hold the sign in a taut planar configuration. The sign is also adapted to be collapsed into a small, compact package for transport and storage. One embodiment of the sign has two or more flaps thus allowing three or more different messages to be presented. Another embodiment has an additional cross-brace allowing the sign to be used to present either diamond or square-shaped messages.

Abstract: There is provided a floor sign having a ratchet positionable hinge and replaceable signage. The hinge operates by frictionally engaging one side of the hinge integral with one panel and engaging the opposite side of the hinge, which is integral with the other panel, by means of a ratchet mechanism. This mechanism is arranged to be slideably disengaged by shifting the axial member of the hinge. Selected signage is attachable by magnetic adhesive, or hook/loop (Velcro) methods.

Abstract: An improved inflatable warning sign having a flashing light contained within the sign and a magnetic base to retain the sign to the roof or truck lid of a disabled vehicle. The sign as inflated is a prismatic triangele to maximize the visible rectangular area for lettering and minimize the wind resistance.In the preferred embodiment the light within the sign is red and the inflated bag is white with black lettering. The white bag disperses the red light within evenly, thus permitting much more effective use of a single incandescent bulb within a translucent red covered box. Deflated, a sign with an inflated lettering area of 8 by 17 inches folds into a package or pouch that easily fits within the glove box of an automobile.

Abstract: A collapsible framework is constructed of rods pivotally joined at their ends to hubs to form a self-standing unit when expanded and to fold into a small set of nearly parallel rods when folded. In one embodiment in which the expanded frame forms an array of cubicles, the hubs are designed to pivotally join the ends of four rods, with the plane defined by the pivot axes of one pair of opposing rods being offset from the plane defined by the pivot axes of the other pair of opposed rods attached to the same hub. One pair of rods attached to each hub can pivot on one of several pivot points on extended hub flanges to thereby provide expanded frameworks of various arcuate configurations. A stab-connection latch locks two hubs together and secures the framework in the expanded position. Folding channel bars are attached to knobs on vertically aligned hubs by keyslots.

Abstract: A flexible highway safety sign capable of being rolled up for storage and portability and mounting a high-way flag. The safety sign is useful with flexible frame members that allow the mounted sign to bend in response to winds and wind gusts without tipping over and taking a set. The frame members include a clamping assembly for mounting a plurality of flag arms with the highway sign. The clamping assembly permits a pair of flag arms to be pivotally secured thereto between a flat displaying position and a storage position. The storage position allows the flag arms to assume a side-by-side relationship with the folded frame members to the sign to permit the flexible sign to be wreapped around the members for storage and/or transport.

Abstract: A traffic barrier composed of a unitary panel having a plurality of folds for permitting it to be folded into an A-frame composed of two message panels connected at an apex, the A-frame having a base. The folds in the unitary panel include: a center fold, which forms the apex of the A-frame two bottom folds each spaced a first predetermined distance from the center fold, which define a bottom panel adjacent each message panel, and two flange folds spaced a second predetermined distance from the center fold, which define a flange adjacent the end of each bottom panel. The base is established either by an interlocking tab and slot system located adjacent the flanges or by an adhesive interconnecting the two flanges.

Abstract: A plastic traffic barricade comprises two integrally molded, generally planar panel units each having two upstanding legs interconnected by a panel member and each having a hinge projection mating with a hinge projection on the other panel unit and a hinge pin extending thru the mated hinge projections and a handle member extending between the mated pair of hinge projections.

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.

Abstract: An elongate message holding device consisting of telescoping conical segments surrounded by a fluid-tight cylindrical housing. An axially, centrally located conical segment is provided with a clasp which can be used to hold a card or note upon which desired information can be placed. At another end of the telescoping segments is provided a fluid input into which a fluid, e.g. air, may be blown to cause the axially located conical segment to advance in the same direction in which the pressurized air is inputted. After the axial located conical segment has advanced to an opposite end of the cylindrical housing, its base will engage an end of the conical segment which concentrically surrounds the axially located segment to advance the next annular segment and to permit the next annular segment to receive fluid input form the fluid input opening from a mouth piece.

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.

Abstract: A display system includes a collapsible, rectangular frame having a plurality of rectangular box units. Each box unit includes rectangularly arranged sides which are defined by a pair of arms, joined to one another by a scissor connection. The top and bottom side arms include at least one telescoping member therein. Connector-block nodes are located at each corner of the box units and include pivot means for securing the arms thereto for permitting the frame to be collapsed to a compact form. Plural display supports extend along files of connected block nodes on the front face of the frame, each support extending between adjacent connector block nodes and including a pair of display-support runners. The display-support runners are joined to one another at one, central end thereof by a central hinge and joined to a connector block node at the other end thereof by an end hinge.

Abstract: An invertible, foldable sign formed of an integral blank synthetic resin material permits repeated folding and reversibility for display of multiple messages. The sign has opposite side panels joined by an integral resilient hinge, which panels are latchable into display configuration by integral tabs. The sign is self-latching for shipping or storage.

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.

Abstract: An emergency-identifying apparatus for motor vehicles for displaying highly visible messages to approaching motorists. The apparatus includes a housing having an opening positioned in at least one side thereof, a rotatable member supported within the housing and having a plurlaity of message plates thereon, each of the message plates bearing a different message indicia thereon, means coupled to the rotatable member and positioned externally of the housing to position a selected message plate in alignment with the opening, a light source for illuminating the selected message plate from behind to render the desired message indicia thereon readily visible, and means for supporting the housing at a desired location to permit the message indicia on the selected message plate to be readily visible to oncoming motorists or the like. The apparatus can be easily and quickly set-up and operated by one person and can readily be stored in a vehicle trunk or other convenient location when not in use.

Abstract: A tripod-type support is disclosed to releasably support a resiliently deformable highway sign in a stressed condition. Two front tripod legs carry medial brackets to support lower peripheral portions of a sign and the rearward leg in its upper part pivotally supports an upper arm that adjustably fastens the uppermost portion of a sign and moves to a position to stress and positionally maintain a supported sign. The support is adapted to positionally maintain both standard three and four foot square highway signs. Auxiliary apparatus releasably positions flags at an eight foot elevation above ground level.

Abstract: The display system of the invention includes a collapsible, rectangular frame which includes plural, rectangular box units. Each box unit includes a top side, a bottom ride, right side, left side, front face and rear face. The top side, bottom side, right side and left side may be shared with adjoining box units. The top, bottom, right and left sides are defined by a pair of arms which are joined to one another by a scissor connection. The top and bottom side arms include at least one telescoping member therein. Connector nodes are located at each corner of the box units. Each of the nodes includes a pivot for securing the arms of the frame thereto and for allowing collapsing of the frame to a compact form.

Abstract: A portable sign apparatus has a changeable display and includes a frame having a pair of vertical frame members and a pair of horizontal frame members attached to the vertical frame members. A display portion is removably attached to the frame between the horizontal frame members. A ground support base is attached to the frame to support the frame in an upright position for displaying the display portion and supports the frame at each end thereof with a pair of legs connected to a leg support member. An attaching system allows the frame to be movably attached to the leg support members to allow the frame to be raised and lowered. A ground support attachment provides additional support between the frame and the ground to hold the sign more securely in position.

Abstract: The present invention provides a collapsible sign apparatus that is readily portable and usable for temporary applications, wherein the apparatus is formed with a pair of hinged leg-support frame members which are adjustable controlled from a folded mode to a fully extended mode by means of a slidable frame member having guide members that movably engage the hinged leg-support frames. A stretchable elastic fabric is secured at its opposite ends to each respective leg-support frame member, the intermediate portion of the fabric being mounted for engagement with the slidable perpendicular frame member, whereby the elastic stretching of the fabric will bias the support frame members to a sustantially secure open position by placing an outward and upward force on the respective leg-support frame members. When in a folded position, the fabric is forced upwardly, thus preventing the leg-support frame members from moving to an open position, unless forced to do so against the fabric's spring-like tension.

Abstract: A collapsible portable sign is described having a pair of vertically disposed parallel laterally spaced apart legs connected together at their upper ends by means of a center piece, all of which can be formed from metal or plastic tubing. The legs are releasably connected to the center piece as by means of pivots or removable socket connections enabling the legs to be folded parallel to the center piece for compact storage. A movable support bar extends between the legs when the sign is erect and a flexible sheet of cloth (e.g., nylon cloth) or plastic is supported between the center piece and the support bar to provide a display surface having information printed thereon.

Abstract: A throwable, multi-sided emergency traffic warning marker. The marker body comprises a plurality of traffic-warning display faces preferably arranged in a tetrahedral configuration. Traffic warning indicia are present on each face, imparting visibility thereto. The marker assembly is contoured and proportioned to insure display of one of the display faces to oncoming vehicles when the marker is thrown, dropped or otherwise placed on a roadway surface.

Abstract: A portable, collapsible post having at least two sections rotatably coupled together by a pair of hinges in end-to-end fashion. When one of the hinge pins is removed, the sections will rotate about the axis formed by the remaining hinge pin allowing the post to be folded or collapsed reducing the overall length of the post. A cross arm member may also be attached in similar fashion to the upper portion of the post to support one or more signs to be displayed. The post is removeably mounted on a mounting stake driven into the ground and includes an anti-swivel bracket to prevent the post from turning in the wind when so mounted.

Abstract: A portable mannequin includes a carrying case which may be unfolded to reveal the contents which include a collapsible mannequin form having a head form and a torso form that are foldable in the case and unfoldable to fit upon the case in an erect fashion. The mannequin may be used as a security companion or by itself in automobiles, homes and the like.

Abstract: A collapsible sign includes a web supported by a collapsible frame. The collapsible frame includes two vertical legs and a cross member releasably secured to the tops of the legs. Casings are formed along three edges of the rectangular web and enclose the framing members. The cross member is secured to the top of the legs using a resilient tubular connector adapted to slide over and tightly engage the ends of the legs and cross member. A method for erecting a collapsible sign is also disclosed. When disassembled, the sign may be collapsed or rolled into a compact cylindrical package.

Abstract: A demountable road sign intended primarily for transient utilization includes a collapsible ground engaging support, a pivoted pantograph-type frame and a rolled, self-storing sign. The support preferably includes an elongate rod or similar structure which may be maintained in a vertical orientation by a plurality of attached legs. The legs are movable from a stored position generally adjacent the elongate rod to a deployed position in which they extend uniformly and obliquely away from the rod and engage the ground. Suitable structures for receiving the elongate rod support and securing the frame thereto form a portion of the frame. The frame includes a pair of preferably equal length arms pivotally interconnected at their mid points and a sign receiving device disposed on one end of each arm. The ends of the arms are interconnected by a pair of shorter pivoted arms.

Abstract: Display apparatus of expandable/collapsible form incorporating a framework which is erected and display support mounted on the framework defining a continuous support surface to which displays may be attached. A feature of the framework includes mounting for auxiliary devices and which functions to hold the framework in erected condition.

Abstract: A sign extension attachment for a self-standing floor sign having two panels (28) and (29) connected at their upper ends by hinge means (30) including a transverse handle (31), the attachment comprising a panel (10) having spreadable sleeve portions (18) and (22) for wrapping around the handle (31).

Abstract: A device for displaying decorative articles such as photographs, greeting cards, or the like having five sections which are pivotably attached to one another for rotation about the pivot in adjacent parallel planes so that the sections may be shaped to conform to various patterns such as the arch of a doorway or the outline of a window frame and folded into a single longitudinal section for easy storage and packaging. The display is adaptable to various size doorways by providing a slideable attachment with respect to the relative edge of at least two adjoining sections. The display may be utilized for supporting and displaying decorative articles in a convenient and attractive arrangement.

Abstract: A collapsible warning barricade apparatus for restricting access to a designated area by vehicular and pedestrian traffic in which at least an upstanding portion of the apparatus is capable of collapsing towards a substantially ground surface-hugging position upon impact from traffic, as well as capable of collapsing into a substantially flat position for transportaion and/or storage. The barricade is restrained in its substantially upright position by two support runners which are pivotally attached to the barricade member. At each pivot point, automatic locking and biasing apparatus allow the barricade member to rotate from a locked upright position upon impact to a locked ground surface-hugging position. The support runners of the barricade may additionally be provided with spurs along the top edge to affix a sandbag, when required for ballast. A variety of signalling indicia are further integrated into the barricade member for warning emphasis.

Abstract: A display sign has a panel supported on a horizontal arm which is cantilevered on a vertical post. A slot is formed in the horizontal arm and the panel is supported in the slot. The horizontal arm includes a pair of parallelly extending, spaced-apart channel members and a pair of spacers, one of which is inserted at each end of the channel members. The spacers span the channel members and join them together. The slot in the horizontal arm is formed by a gap between the spaced apart channel members. One type of panel which has an upper portion with a width greater than the width of the lower portion is supported in the slot by the spacers. Another type of panel having a lower portion greater in width than in its upper portion and a neck portion with a pair of cutouts is supported in the slot by pivotably mounted plates which engage in the cutouts.

Abstract: A display panel comprising a structural layer of rigid material having a plurality of holes extending therethrough, a plurality of laminate sections fastened to the structural layer in parallel relationship, a fastening material fastened to the structural layer in an area between the laminate sections, and an attachment cleat affixed to the side of the structural layer opposite the laminate section. The fastening material is a VELCRO-type material that covers a linear array of holes in the structural layer. The structural layer is a sheet of pegboard material. The laminate sections extend longitudinally across the surface of the structural layer. The attachment cleat is fixedly attached to the side of the structural layer opposite the laminate sections. The attachment cleat has an angle cut along its lower edge for engaging a complementary angle cut in a support structure.

Abstract: A portable iluminated signal person station is disclosed having a first frame supported on legs and a second frame having legs pivoted to it. A person can stand on the platform and direct traffic. Signs, light and reflectors can be supported on the second frame to add visibility and a spot light can be supported on the second frame and directed onto the signal person on the platform to increase his visibility.

Abstract: A self-contained inflatable sign for temporary attachment to prominent portions of structures to provide a highly visible message day or night. The sign is an envelope made from translucent flexible panels which is inflated by a blower within the envelope which also contains a series of lights. A message banner is interchangeably held onto the envelope. When inflated the envelope becomes a strong illuminated sign capable of withstanding severe outdoor environments but light enough to be quickly and easily erected on highly visible but otherwise difficult to access portions of buildings or structures. An alternate version is specifically designed for mounting against the front of a commercial building as a marquee-type display.

Abstract: A collapsible partition assembly comprises an elongated arm which is pivoted to an elongated frame. The arm is pivotal between a storage position wherein the frame and the arm form an enclosure and a second position wherein the arm projects away from the frame to open the enclosure. A foldable partition is connected in fixed relationship with the arm and the frame so that the partition is substantially entirely enclosed in the enclosure when the arm is in a storage position. The partition expands to form a substantially rectangularly shaped panel. The partition is comprised of a plurality of flexibly connected elongated panel strips which cooperate to define a corrugated structure which is expandable and contractable relative to two generally orthogonal axes.

Abstract: A display device having a collapsible display board which removably receives pictures which are intended to be displayed. The display board can have affixed to its back a support receiving means, the receiving means further being collapsible. In one mode the receiving means receives a supporting pole member which is itself supported by a polyhedral base such that a free standing display board is formed. The polyhedral base is collapsible into a substantially flat configuration for storage. In a second configuration, the support receiving means receives an L-shaped supporting bracket which can support the display board in its display mode on a flat surface such as a countertop or desk. This bracket is further collapsible for storage. Thus, by utilizing either of the supporting structures, the display board can be supported in either the free standing mode above the polyhedral base or can be adapted for mounting on a countertop display surface.

Abstract: A foldable corrugated fiberboard decorative insert which is intended for use in the enhancement of the appearance of a bookshelving unit and also for use as a general advertising means. The invention inherently includes a novel method of display advertising which may be effectively utilized by retail merchants without the need for costly expenditures for complex advertising display systems. The invention structure is designed to be shipped in a flat or knockdown position so that multiple units may be most economically shipped and warehoused as needed.

Abstract: A first reflexively collapsible support and attachment structure for use in portable self-supporting frames for display panels, walls, podiums and tables. A horizontal elongate foot having front and back ends forms the base. Connected to the front end of the foot is a first brace adapted to swing to an inclined position. A biased support strut is provided between the foot and the first brace. The support strut is slidably collapsible and supports the first brace in the inclined position. Second and subsequent braces are interlockingly hinged such as to swing to generally vertical positions. Aligned in parallel fashion is a second like reflexively collapsible structure. The first and second structures are interconnected by at least two horizontal connecting rods. Display panels or sheets are connected between the first and second structures.

Abstract: A sign support structure, such as for supporting a distress flag or any other information-carrying flag. The structure comprises an elongated main shaft which is secured at a lower end to a support base having a magnet therein. A flat support surface is provided under the support base whereby the base can be attached to any metal surface such as the roof top or door of a car. A coupling element is removably secured to an upper end of the main shaft and has a transverse support shaft secured thereto. The coupling element also has an axial bore opening in a lower end thereof to receive a free end portion of the upper end of the main shaft. Furthermore, the coupling element has a second bore disposed transverse to the axial bore and above a base of the axial bore and above the axial bore and below the transverse support shaft for receiving the free end portion of the main shaft when the support structure is in a storage position.

Abstract: The invention provides a portable, collapsible sign comprised of a flexible, durable panel secured to a frame of four arms pivotally attached to a rigid central web so as to fold down one direction only and form a compact bundle for storage. The arms in the extended position are in the form of a cross and hold the sign panel firmly extended. The portable sign can be quickly assembled and disassembled.

Abstract: A foldable sign capable of being mounted on the roof of a vehicle. The foldable sign has a sign plate pivotally mounted upon a base which may be removably or fixedly secured to the roof of the vehicle. Interconnected between the sign plate and the base is a latching mechanism capable of securely locking the sign plate at two portions thereof in either an upright (unfolded) position or a horizontal (folded) position with respect to the base. The latching mechanism includes a movable rod which enables an individual with a single sliding movement of the rod to simultaneously disengage the latching mechanism from both portions of the sign plate. In so doing, it is possible to maintain a positive locking of the sign plate in either the upright or retracted positions while enabling a quick release of the locking action to be effected when desired.

Abstract: A support and attachment brace for a collapsible display panel structure having hub assemblies with outwardly facing fastening buttons thereon, including an elongated rigid bar or brace with top and bottom ends each being adapted for releasably interconnecting with one of a pair of confronting vertically aligned fastening buttons. A magnetic strip along the length of the brace provides a means for releasably attaching a sheet of material to the brace to cover the panel structure or display a graphic representation. A plurality of vertically aligned slots in the brace are adapted for releasably attaching shelving or other panel structure accessories to the structure.

Abstract: A display assembly of the type having a rear display panel angularly joined by lateral display panels includes foldable end sections which allow the display assembly to become relatively flat when disassembled. The relatively flat folded assembly may then be packed into a relatively small container for more cost-effective shipping.

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.

Abstract: A warning device is responsive to the failure of an electric power supply for activation to a warning mode. The warning device includes an arm pivotally mounted to a frame member and latched by an electromagnet in a non-warning mode. In the non-warning mode, a collapsible warning sign carrier is enclosed within an enclosure formed by the frame and the arm. When the supply of power is interrupted, the electromagnet releases the arm so that the arm pivots to a warning position.

Abstract: A help summoning device for a disabled motor vehicle includes a base housing securable to the vehicle and defining a battery compartment and a first pin socket mast mounting member electrically connected to the battery. A telescopically extendable mast having two sections axially collapsible to substantially the length of one section but remaining elongated once extended is hollow and includes a second pin socket in its base which can be coupled to the first pin socket to assemble the device. A bulb socket is secured in the upper end of the mast with electrical wires extending through the mast and being of sufficient length to extend between and interconnect the bulb socket and the second pin socket. A brightly colored rigid flag is secured to the upper mast section with a portion of the flag relieved around the bulb socket which receives a flasher bulb and a lens surrounding the bulb and engaging the upper end of the mast in the relieved portion of the flag.

Abstract: A collapsible display stand which comprises a pair of matching side supports each in the form of a series of articulated struts interconnected by a plurality of horizontal rods defining a zig-zag of inclined planes extending from top to bottom of the erected stand, and display panels disposed in said zig-zag arrangement of planes, each suspended from one rod and resting in the corresponding inclined plane against the rod below it.

Abstract: A self-contained emergency signal has a base which contains a battery and a high-intensity flash/lamp actuating unit. The actuating unit is electrically connected to a battery and to a high-intensity flash lamp. A switch turns the actuating unit on and high-intensity lamp bursts are displayed through a transparent, translucent, polarized, colored or symbol containing a lens arrangement, or a combination of such elements. The emergency signal may have different forms such as cylindrical, elliptical, rectangular or triangular. In some embodiments the lens arrangements are in telescopic relationship to the base, or may be collapsible to a compact, easy-to-carry device. Exemplary circuitry for use with the various emergency signal embodiments is also part of the invention.