Picture Frame Patents (Class 40/700)
  • Patent number: 7673749
    Abstract: A folding photo case includes a pair of exterior case members coupled to each other by a first hinge and a pair of interior frame members coupled to respective exterior case members by respective second and third hinges. The first, second and third hinges are preferably torsion bar hinges with the first hinge biasing the exterior case members to an open position and the second and third springs biasing the interior frame members toward interior surfaces of the exterior case members. One or both of the exterior case members are preferably provided with a latch structure which allows the folding case to be latched in a closed position. The dimensions of the folding case are preferably such that the case can be carried in a pocket or purse when it is folded into the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Monica Rich Kosann Photography, LLC
    Inventors: Rod G. Kosann, Monica Kosann
  • Patent number: 7631451
    Abstract: A contoured framed artwork comprises a picture frame surrounding a support member. The support member is a three-dimensional support member that has a raised, carved, or contoured portion surrounding a planar portion. A two-dimensional artwork is adhered to the planar portion. The support member includes a coating the provides an appearance of plaster or metal, or the like. A variety of different prints can be adhered to the planar portion of the support member to allow the support member to be used with a variety of different artworks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: Designs Direct LLC
    Inventor: Richard T. Heidrich
  • Publication number: 20090281910
    Abstract: A framed art system in which a user may personalize framed art.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2009
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Inventor: Angela D'Amica
  • Publication number: 20090211138
    Abstract: A display article (10) has a single indicia plate (11) having indicia formed by cut-outs (12) in the indicia plate (11) and one or more plates (13, 14) attached to the indicia plate (11) which are opaque, transparent or translucent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2006
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventors: Allan Burman, Albert De Boer
  • Publication number: 20090178321
    Abstract: Modular elements connect together to form a framing device that supports an art package for display. Corner edges are positioned over a back support structure on which an art package rests, and are removably attached on outside corner regions of the back support structure. The corner edges at least partially sandwich an art package between the front face of the back support structure and the lips of the corner edges. Fasteners removably attach along the back support structure between corner edges. The back support structure comprises extenders attached with adjoining hardware, and support bars add extra support. Space adjusters adapt a framing device for proper fit. The framing device is re-usable and adaptable due to means of attaching and dismantling the modular elements, and by adapting modular elements to fit different sizes and aesthetic choices. Modular elements are occasionally interchangeable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2009
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Inventor: Karen Ann Kucharski
  • Patent number: 7536814
    Abstract: A frame for supporting artwork, having a surrounding matt structure having a first stiffener, a second stiffener and a fillet extension, a rectangular tubular grid structure attached to the support, and a plate attached to the rectangular tubular grid structure, wherein the mounting plate is configured to support the artwork.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Inventor: Clifford Ross
  • Patent number: 7521119
    Abstract: Windows and other articles made from dimethyl bisphenol cyclohexane (DMBPC) polycarbonate exhibit enhanced scratch resistance properties and Mw degradation resistance properties as compared to traditional polycarbonates. Such windows and other articles made from DMBPC polycarbonate can be used in various applications including buildings, particularly in agricultural environments and in electronic devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Assignee: Sabic Innovative Plastics IP B.V.
    Inventors: Geert Boven, Dennis Karlik, Edward Kung, Jan Pleun Lens
  • Patent number: 7509763
    Abstract: An interrelated form apparatus and method includes a three dimensional first piece with an image or partial image, with a front and a side. A three dimensional second piece with an image or partial image, with a front and a side is also provided. A first surface joined with a second surface at an angle is provided and the first piece is located on the first surface and the second piece is located on the second surface such that the image or partial image, on the front of one piece combines with the image or partial image, on the side of another piece to create a unified image. An unlimited number of pieces as well as surfaces as well as varying angles can be used to create the unified image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Inventor: Carole Lynn Alverson
  • Publication number: 20090064555
    Abstract: A picture frame assembly includes a backing plate having a front surface, a rear surface, and a plurality of parallel grooves in one of the surfaces. The material and thickness of the backing plate are chosen so that the backing plate can be plastically deformed about a bending axis parallel to the grooves. At least one frame element, which can be formed integrally with the backing plate, is for provided for retaining a planar picture element against the front surface of the backing plate. A fastener extends from the rear surface for mounting the assembly to any of various objects, such as a tree, flower stem, a candle, a vase, a basket, a gift wrapping device, a container, a column, and furniture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2008
    Publication date: March 12, 2009
    Inventor: Margarete Schymura
  • Patent number: 7476436
    Abstract: An artist's cradle includes a sheet of rigid plastic having a paintable surface on at least one planar surface thereof and a rigid base frame mounted to the underside of the sheet. The sheet is substantially neutral or neutral alkali ph and treated with a heat treatment around at least a periphery of the underside of the sheet. The heat treatment includes heat oxidizing the periphery using a heat source. The rigid frame is bonded by an adhesive to the periphery of the sheet following the heat treatment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Inventors: Floyd Armstrong, Douglas Enns
  • Publication number: 20080301993
    Abstract: A digital photo frame with a function for displaying images according to a chosen date includes an internal memory for storing a search date and digital images; a date unit for supplying a system date; a date obtaining module for obtaining the system date from the date unit; a time frame search confirming module for confirming a time frame according to the system date and the search date; an image searching module for searching images in the internal memory or an external memory connected to the digital photo frame according to the time frame; and an image obtaining module for obtaining images according to the time frame. A method of displaying images according to a chosen date in a digital photo frame is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2008
    Publication date: December 11, 2008
    Applicants: ENSKY TECHNOLOGY (SHENZHEN) CO., LTD., ENSKY TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Wen-Chuan Lian, Xiao-Guang Li, Kuan-Hong Hsieh
  • Publication number: 20080296240
    Abstract: An apparatus; banner or plaque that is designed for holding and displaying Sports Caps, Photographs, Awards or other collectibles on a vertical plane. The apparatus includes tabs on top at either side to secure apparatus to a vertical plane. The soft display frame is produced by a transparent material in shape and size desired, that has been edged with a flexible material and permanently secured by the edges to the base of banner on 3(three) sides. This opening allows entry for items desired to be inserted securely. An attachment mechanism for the cap is a single strap, which is secured at both sides to base. Strap is connected at such points; as to allow the remainder of the strap to fall loosely to form a U shape. To secure the cap it is needed to fold the cap in half, from back to front; so that the back of the cap is nestling within the front of the cap and brim, and inserting the cap between base of banner and strap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventor: Ethel Geraldine Napier
  • Patent number: 7451562
    Abstract: A container for a picture frame capable of withstanding temperatures of 500-1000° F. for 15 to 20 minutes that employs the use of water as its main protectant. The present invention works on the property of the phase change of water from a liquid to a gas. During the phase change the temperature of the water will remain constant until all of the water has changed to gas. At sea level this temperature is about 212° F. of 100° C. Tests showing that most photographic paper can withstand temperatures of this magnitude. This test involved putting a picture is a watertight plastic baggie and submerging it in boiling water for 20 minutes. The photograph emerged unchanged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Inventor: Kurt Lightner
  • Publication number: 20080244949
    Abstract: This invention relates to electronic image frames, and in particular to electronic image frames having an electronics housing portion and a detachable frame portion that is secured in place by a tab and slot mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2007
    Publication date: October 9, 2008
    Applicants: Atico International, USA
    Inventors: Daniel W. Forbes, Eric Pozin, Tom Lane
  • Publication number: 20080163524
    Abstract: An improved picture frame having an open display pocket mounted behind a viewing aperture for changing the picture displayed within the frame. An easel is mounted to the rear of the frame for supporting the frame in either a portrait or landscape orientation. A hanging apparatus is provided for mounting the picture frame to a wall. A plate with radially outwardly-facing substantially circular cylindrical surfaces attaches to the wall. A hanger mounts to the frame and has radially inwardly-facing substantially circular cylindrical surfaces seating against the cylindrical surfaces of the plate. The plate has a first lip extending radially outwardly of the cylindrical surfaces of the plate and the hanger has a second lip extending radially outwardly of the cylindrical surfaces of the hanger.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2008
    Publication date: July 10, 2008
    Applicant: WILTON INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: Joshua Michael Broehl, James Huang Lua
  • Publication number: 20080148615
    Abstract: A media frame assembly for displaying a media against a display surface comprising a base plate and a cover plate. The base plate has a top surface, a bottom surface, a first edge, a second edge, and a U shaped protrusion equidistant from the first edge and the second edge, and the base plate protrudes from the top surface towards the bottom surface to form a screw guide. The cover plate has an outer surface, an inner surface, an upper end, a lower end, and a mount like projection equidistant from the upper end and the lower end, and the cover plate protrudes from the lower surface away from the upper surface so that the media to be held for display purpose is sandwiched between the base plate and the cover plate. A method of installing a media frame display is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2006
    Publication date: June 26, 2008
    Inventor: Bret Mileski
  • Patent number: 7377062
    Abstract: An improved illuminated airfield guidance sign of the type used for marking ground traffic routes on runways and taxiways has a curved face. The sign is capable of withstanding the prescribed wind load tests and at the same time has even illumination across each of its legend panels. The curved legend panels are preferably formed of sheets of acrylic or equivalent substrate with a thickness of about 0.354 inches except at the edges where the edge portion is about 0.220 inches. The edge portion i.e. peripheral flange fits into the grooves or channels along the base and end panels of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Inventor: Andrew B. Ellerton
  • Publication number: 20080115397
    Abstract: An apparatus for the display of images comprises one or more graphical images, an image support and a display structure. The rigid image support may be releasably attached to the rigid display structure, which may be achieved with one or more magnets. The display structure contains features for display on a mounting surface, e.g., a wall or a desktop.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2007
    Publication date: May 22, 2008
    Inventors: Juergen REINOLD, Thomas M. Mcauliffe, Rajat Shail
  • Publication number: 20080098638
    Abstract: The invention concerns a window unit for display, protection and preventive conservation of an object of limited thickness, in particular a work of art such as a painting, a bas-relief, a tapestry or similar. It comprises a case with a back (32) and a front door (31) coupled together so as to be able to have the case (30) take up an open state, in which the object (D) is not protected and can be inserted into or removed from the case (30), and a closed state, in which the object (D) is protected and can neither be inserted into nor removed from the case (30), in which the front door (31) is provided with a transparent front panel (48) through which the object (D) is visibile from the front in the state with the case (30) closed. The window unit is characterised in that the back (32) is provided with a transparent rear panel (50) through which the object (D) is visibile from the rear in the state with the ease (30) closed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 24, 2004
    Publication date: May 1, 2008
    Inventor: Alessandro Goppion
  • Publication number: 20080083148
    Abstract: The present invention relates to provide a gel pad which includes non slip gel pad, decal gel picture frame and window cling. The invention also provides a decorative printing on a surface of gel pad picture frame. The printing methods can be pad printing, or screen-printing, digital printing and heat transfer printing. After die cut the designed shape from non slip gel pad, the picture frame body is constructed polymeric gel materials and is shaped to define a center opening in which the photograph is positioned. The part of die cut shape is a window cling. A process for making a gel picture frame includes the step of die-cut of a design shape from thermoplastic rubber flat sheet, printing a art design to surface of a design shape TPR sheet, finally a top coated was applied to protect the printing image. The image printing methods can be transfer printing, pad printing, screen printing, digital printing and hand painting. Pad printing, screen-printing, or spray coating can be used for the top coated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2006
    Publication date: April 10, 2008
    Inventor: Yuh-Jye Uang
  • Patent number: 7322139
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a picture frame holder which can accommodate a picture frame in either a vertical or horizontal orientation. The picture frame holder of the present invention includes a base with a slot and a vertical support having outwardly extending appendages, each of which has both vertical and horizontal slots aligned with the slot in the base. The appendages are spaced at a distance apart from one another which is substantially equal to the smaller dimension of the frame which it is to accommodate. Thus, it is possible to slide a picture frame into the picture frame holder using the horizontal or vertical slots which will allow the picture frame to be oriented in either a horizontal or vertical orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2008
    Assignee: Dan-Dee International, Ltd.
    Inventor: Gary Lee Holcomb
  • Publication number: 20070277418
    Abstract: The present invention is a container for a picture frame capable of withstanding temperatures of 500-1000° F. for 15 to 20 minutes that employs the use of water as its main protectant. The present invention works on the property of the phase change of water from a liquid to a gas. During the phase change the temperature of the water will remain constant until all of the water has changed to gas. At sea level this temperature is about 212° F. of 100° C. Tests showing that most photographic paper can withstand temperatures of this magnitude. This test involved putting a picture is a water tight plastic baggie and submerging it in boiling water for 20 minutes. The photograph emerged unchanged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2006
    Publication date: December 6, 2007
    Inventors: Vincent Magallanes, John Flowers
  • Patent number: 7219460
    Abstract: A document displaying system for facilitating easy access to documents being displayed. The document displaying system includes a support assembly having a backing member selectively couplable to a vertical support surface; a frame assembly operationally couplable to the support assembly; a transparent cover member operationally couplable to the frame assembly, and abutting a perimeter edge of the transparent cover member; and a pair of magnetic coupling members for selectively operationally securing the transparent cover member to the support assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Inventor: Thomas Grayson
  • Patent number: 7152354
    Abstract: A document displaying system for facilitating easy access to documents being displayed. The document displaying system includes a support assembly having a backing member selectively couplable to a vertical support surface; a frame assembly operationally couplable to the support assembly; a transparent cover member operationally couplable to the frame assembly, and abutting a perimeter edge of the transparent cover member; and a pair of magnetic coupling members for selectively operationally securing the transparent cover member to the support assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Inventor: Thomas Grayson
  • Patent number: 7114278
    Abstract: A picture frame assembly in which tiles bearing letters, numerals, symbols or other indicia are affixed to the frame to provide a personalized or customized appearance. The tiles may slide within a groove integrally formed in the frame or be magnetically attached to the frame. In the non-magnetic embodiment, the tiles have raised rails extending from the perimeter of the tile which hold the tile to the frame. The rails may be spring loaded (retractable) for easier mounting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Inventors: Jeffrey Marks, Rose K. Marks
  • Patent number: 7069682
    Abstract: The subject matter of the invention under consideration is directed to picture frames that can be quickly and safely assembled, installed, and disassembled to display artwork. The picture frame has a frame member and backing that are adapted for safe, easy and removable assembly using removable attachment means, and are designed for safe use by children, elderly, and disabled adults without the need for adult assistance or supervision.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Inventors: Raymond M. Gatt, Mark J. Potok
  • Patent number: 7047683
    Abstract: An album manufactured solely of folded photographic prints bonded together plus a treatment applied to the spine. Two-page spreads are imprinted on each print except the first and last pages, which are placed on the right and left halves of the first and last prints, respectively. When made from standard photographic print sizes, the album achieves the valuable objectives of low cost, low weight and low bulk, and are especially suited for secondary copies of full-size composite image flush mount albums.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Inventor: Curtiss Mitchell Austin
  • Patent number: 6983524
    Abstract: A canvas framing system and method for attaching canvas to an extruded aluminum frame to achieve a taut mount painting surface, including forming the frame of aluminum material, rounding selected corners and edges of the frame, temporarily securing a first portion of the canvas to the frame and attaching the canvas to the frame, preferably with staples using a modified staple gun, stretching the canvas on the frame and temporarily securing an opposing portion of the canvas to an opposing side of the frame, which is then stapled thereto, and stretching and attaching remaining portions of the canvas to the frame with the staple gun. Cross bracing can be installed on the frame to prevent bending when the canvas is stretched taut thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2006
    Inventor: Mark T. Eastwood
  • Patent number: 6962016
    Abstract: A picture frame and hanger bar together provide a picture hanging system that requires a single hanger bar in addition to the picture frame itself. The picture frame hanger has a wall mounting surface that during use is affixed to the wall or other vertical surface and the picture frame is provided with a downwardly facing skid member that is recessed within a pocket in the rear of the picture frame. The hanger bar is provided with an upwardly facing ramp surface that is canted downwardly proceeding toward the wall so that when the skid on the picture frame engages the canted surface, the picture frame will slide rearwardly toward the wall on the canted surface so as to press the picture frame against the wall by the force of gravity. The hanger bar preferably applies pressure to a backer board positioned behind the picture or other graphic article for holding it in a flat condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2005
    Inventor: James F. Meyer
  • Patent number: 6907686
    Abstract: A portable model picture framing gallery comprising an easily carried box containing multiple image cards, multiple mat cards, one or more transparent protective covers, and multiple frame cards. The image cards contain preselected representations of artwork images manipulated to a predetermined size, the mat cards are of a variety of colors and textures, the transparent cover can be non-glare or regular glass or plastic, and framing cards are each imprinted with representation of a frame. The user selects an image card, one or more mat cards, a protective cover, and a suitable frame card to view a representation of the custom framed image suitable for placing an order.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Assignee: Kensington Art Centre, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Symons
  • Patent number: 6905770
    Abstract: A method of protecting a glazed frame mounted document from the ravages of light and a fade protector therefore, the protector comprising a transparent UV absorbing polymeric film layer, preferably PET, having a thickness such that the film in use remains substantially flat against the glazing when clamped between the frame and glazing, the film layer being coated on its exposed side in use with a transparent anti-glare hard coating. The glazing is removed from the glazed frame, the fade protector is placed against a surface of the glazing which is then re-assembled in the frame with the fade protector adjacent the eternal surface of the glazing with the anti-glare coating facing outwardly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2005
    Assignee: CPFILMS, Inc
    Inventors: David Newton Kaliser, William Dean Jarrett, Philip J Solomon, Steven A Barth, Mary Elizabeth Lawless, James P Enniss
  • Patent number: 6892487
    Abstract: A picture frame and hanging system for hanging and displaying fine art and documents in a level and secure fashion by means of a perforated metal frame covered in acrylic glass with a length and a width and a metal or acrylic C-Rail with a length and a width connected by metal fasteners and metal pins. A first fastener, such as washers, nuts and bolts are provided on the perforated metal frame to attach the acrylic glass to the front of the frame. A second fastener is provided such as metal pins to attach the metal frame to the metal or acrylic C-rail provided. A third fastener is provided such as a L-bracket with holes, in a length and a width to adapt the C-rail to any picture frame needed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Inventor: David Lawrence Keigley
  • Patent number: 6820360
    Abstract: A picture frame includes a frame with a decorative cover thereon. The frame has an opening through which a picture can be viewed and the cover extends from a top of the frame and around an interior edge of the opening to a bottom of the frame. The picture frame has an annular substrate that has an interior peripheral wall with plural steps ascending from the substrate and extending into the opening, where a riser of a top step abuts the interior edge of the opening to hold the cover between the riser and the frame, and where a flat of a bottom step abuts the bottom of the frame to hold the cover between the flat and the frame. A removably attachable back that holds a picture is provided in the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Inventor: Thomas Glazer
  • Publication number: 20040226208
    Abstract: Window components are made by a fluid-assist injection molding process to reduce manufacturing costs and provide additional flexibility in the configuration of the window. In addition to the inventive product-by-process, two window configurations, a casement window and a picture window, are taught. The casement window has a frame with installation flanges and the window sash has integral mounting posts for handle hardware. Both the window frame and sash have encapsulated insulative air pockets. An acrylic window pane is taught that mimics a glass block window.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2004
    Publication date: November 18, 2004
    Inventors: Charles D. Kownacki, Stephen T. Mansfield, Craig J. Lawson, Charlene W. Crooks
  • Patent number: 6742809
    Abstract: A photo album is disclosed, made from a unitary strip of image bearing media having images printed in a pre-determined sequence. A plurality of pages is formed by folding the image media strip between the images into accordion folds and adhering the folds together so that each pair of the images forms two sides of a page. The photo album may have reinforced front and rear photo album covers. A binding holds the pages together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Peter A. Frosig, Joseph A. Manico
  • Publication number: 20030217742
    Abstract: A stone slab with fasteners has two chambers respectively defined at two sides thereof. Two fasteners are respectively secured in the chambers. The fasteners each have a central portion. A first wing is formed at a first end of the central portion, and perpendicular to the central portion. The first wing has a hole defined therethrough. A second wing is formed at a second end of the central portion, perpendicular to the central portion, and extending oppositely to the first wing. The second wing has two straight edges respectively formed at a top and a bottom thereof, and two arcuate hooks respectively extending inwards from the straight edges. The second wings of the fasteners are received in the respective chambers. Whereby, a plurality of stone slabs can be installed on a frame on a wall by screws inserted through the holes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2002
    Publication date: November 27, 2003
    Inventor: Hsiu-Chuan Chien
  • Patent number: 6653931
    Abstract: A picture frame or a doorbell having warning function includes a main body consisting of a front housing, a rear housing and a transparent plate for placing photos or pictures. The main body is provided with a sensor hole, a speaker, an electronic control circuit and/or an emission circuit to deliver signals to a receive circuit of a subsidiary device positioned at any location in a house (in different rooms or on different stories). When the sensor of the main electronic control circuit senses any unusual light sources, the speaker of the main device can send out warning sounds, and the signals will be delivered to the receive circuit of the subsidiary device through the emission circuit to let the speaker of the subsidiary device give out warning sounds at the same time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Inventor: Chen-Yie Chiang
  • Publication number: 20030131513
    Abstract: An elastically and monolithically marginated display device and of the type having a front diaphragm, an internal seal, a display element or elements, a rear diaphragm, and a frame. The continuous single piece or monolithic frame, made of a resilient and elastic material, is stretched and released into place at the perimeter of the device. The frame relies solely on dynamic mechanical action and principles based on its design and material characteristics, a pre-engineered cross section, and predetermined elastic deformations to dynamically seal the display device rendering it suitable for potentially or inherently adverse applications or uses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2002
    Publication date: July 17, 2003
    Inventor: Mark Fritz Runge
  • Publication number: 20030037473
    Abstract: An apparatus for displaying a transparency includes a Fresnel lens panel and a support structure. The support structure supports the transparency on a horizontal surface in an upright viewing position, and supports the Fresnel lens panel in a position behind the transparency. In this configuration, light passing through the Fresnel lens panel from the rear of the Fresnel lens panel is directed through the transparency for viewing of the transparency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2002
    Publication date: February 27, 2003
    Inventor: Jeffrey C. Pifer
  • Publication number: 20030024145
    Abstract: The Exhibit Framing System is an invention designed for exhibiting, storing, showing and/or displaying all manner and form of artwork, documents, photographs and illustrations, including but not limited to drawings, paintings, water colors, photographs, digital art, blueprints, renderings, prints, etchings, engravings, stock issues, currency, collages, needlework, mixed media and such other various relatively flat objects and artwork or items that can be framed, herein referred to collectively as artifacts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2001
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventor: Laszlo Gyorgy Schwartz
  • Patent number: 6390714
    Abstract: A customizable leaf for retaining visual material includes a first assembly and a second assembly. Each of the assemblies includes a front sheet and a back sheet attached together to form a margin and an accessible pocket. The sheets are made from an optically transparent material such as polypropylene. The sleeve is adapted to receive a background that may include graphics. The background is visible in the margins when received within the sleeve. One or more backgrounds may be provided, each with graphics, so that a user may select one of the backgrounds and then insert the selected background into the sleeve. When visual material such as a photograph is then inserted into one of the pockets, the background, particularly the graphics, is visible at the margins. The leaf is particularly suitable for albums, such photo albums, scrap books, card-collecting albums, and so on.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
  • Publication number: 20020033236
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the automated manufacture of frame components for window assemblies and the like. More particularly the invention includes: an automated apparatus for collating kits of frame components; an automated manufacturing system incorporating a collating device of this kind; and a frame components finishing operations station adapted for operation as part of the automated manufacturing system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2000
    Publication date: March 21, 2002
    Inventors: Peter Aubourg, Ross Doonan, Peter Donnelly
  • Patent number: 6305714
    Abstract: A folder having framed windows featuring a first panel, a second panel and a spine panel disposed between the covers. A pocket panel secured to the holder providing framed windows in substantial alignment with the front cover and the spine such that a sheet containing content information is insertable within the pocket and displayable over the front cover, spine or a combination thereof. A mounting sheet is insertable within the pocket for securing a sheet containing content identification. The mounting sheet has a plurality of fasteners adaptable for securing and displaying sheets for insertion into the pocket in multiple orientations. In the first orientation, the plurality of fasteners secures the sheet such that it extends over the front cover and is viewable only within the framed window of the front cover. In the second orientation, the fasteners secure the sheet such that it extends over both the front cover and the spine and is viewable within both framed windows.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Assignee: Acco Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Rossetto, James Joseph Steger, Patricia Forrest
  • Patent number: 6289567
    Abstract: A method of personalizing a photograph display frame consists of the steps of: providing a photograph display frame having a perimeter, a central opening, a front surface, a rear surface and a thickness; providing a photographic image depicted in two portions, a first portion sized to cover the front surface of the frame and a second portion sized to at least fit the central opening of the frame; attaching the first portion to the frame; and positioning the second portion in the opening separated at least by the thickness of the frame from the first portion such that the first portion and second portion are in plan view alignment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2001
    Inventor: Mari-Lyn Robertson
  • Publication number: 20010015027
    Abstract: A frame system comprises two abutting frame members with a slot formed between the frame members. A cover strip is provided to fit within the slot so as to cover the join between the abutting frame members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2001
    Publication date: August 23, 2001
    Inventor: Keith J. Nurcombe
  • Patent number: 6209924
    Abstract: An aesthetically pleasing greeting card having a light transmitting carrier with a scene printed on both sides of the front cover thereof inserted and adhered between two substantially equal sized folded over sections with substantially equal sized cutouts therethrough. The scenes are identical with one being the reverse of the other so that when viewing through the cutouts and the light transmitting carrier from either side thereof toward a light source one bright common scene is viewed with one side having a reverse scene from the other side. The greeting card has a solid back either with printed indica thereon or left blank for the user to inscribe thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2001
    Inventors: Theresa Pyle, Larry Pyle
  • Patent number: 6124953
    Abstract: A decorative construction 10 for attachment to a vertical surface wherein the decorative construction 10 includes a main image unit 11 comprising a generally elongated rectangular sheet of decorative paper 20 and a plurality of holographic image units 12 adapted to be operatively associated with the front face 23 of the sheet of decorative paper 20.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Inventors: Frank A. Cacciavillano, Lisa M. Cacciavillano
  • Patent number: 5819458
    Abstract: A length of picture frame moulding which includes an elongate member extending the length of the picture frame moulding. An element is carried longitudinally by the elongate member for reinforcing the elongate member against bending.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Inventor: David M. Hadden
  • Patent number: 5783005
    Abstract: A method is provided for producing a composite work from a single two-dimensional work having an image thereon. A flat backing member is provided having generally the same shape and size as the two-dimensional work. The work and the backing member are bonded together to form a work piece. The work piece is cut to define a geometrically shaped center section and a separate perimeter section, thereby breaking the image of the two-dimensional work regardless of individual sculptural components of the work so that each of the sections displays the respective portion of the broken image. The center section and border section are then assembled such that the continuity of the image formed by the sections is broken.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1998
    Assignee: M&R Pictures, U.S.A., Inc.
    Inventor: Milton E. Handler
  • Patent number: 5609252
    Abstract: A display and storage tray for a stack of photographs, card-like objects or the like, includes a housing, a retaining member, a plurality of slots, at least one guiding member and a lifting member. The housing has an interior that forms a recess that is adapted to hold the stack of photographs. The retaining member is coupled to the housing to retain the stack of photographs within the recess of the housing. A first opening slot is formed between the guiding member and the retaining member, and is adapted to permit the removal of one of the photographs from the stack at a time. A guiding member is coupled to or formed as a part of the housing to guide a photograph back to the bottom of the stack of photographs when one photograph is to be placed back in the stack of photographs in the recess of the housing. A second opening slot is formed between the back of the housing and the a guiding member, and is adapted to permit insertion of one or more photographs to the bottom of the stack of photographs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 11, 1997
    Assignee: View 'N Store, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard C. Koch