Support Patents (Class 40/745)
  • Publication number: 20090049728
    Abstract: The present invention provides a securing device for attachment to a display frame. Such securing device includes a support member having a first side and a second side. Such support member is manufactured from a first predetermined material and has a first predetermined size and a first predetermined shape. A first securing mechanism is disposed at least one of on such first side of such support member and through such support member for releasably securing such support member to such display frame at a predetermined location. A second securing mechanism at least one of secured to and formed integrally with such second side of such support member for releasably securing such display frame to at least one of a corkboard, a gypsum board, a fabric covered wall, a cubicle wall, a bulletin board, a cardboard wall, a vertical structure and a combination thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2008
    Publication date: February 26, 2009
    Inventor: Pam J. Pedace
  • Patent number: 7467488
    Abstract: A device for displaying photographs or other similar flat items comprising a first panel, a second panel connected to the first panel, first and second flap segments connected to bottom edges of the first and second panels, respectively, and a third and fourth panel connected to left and right side edges of the first and second panels, wherein all panel connections are along fold lines. A sloping cut disposed on each of the first and second panels is designed to create a ā€œVā€ shaped slit in the middle of the device. A hole disposed at the midpoint of the slit accommodates a single point hanging means. Two holes disposed at the extreme ends of the slit accommodate a line hanging means. A folded state is achieved by folding the device along the fold lines and by maintaining suitable angles for the panels and flap segments. In both the folded and unfolded condition, adhesive on the third and fourth panels is used to secure the device on to the back of a photograph or other similar flat item.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Inventor: Tony Lee
  • Patent number: 7467773
    Abstract: A support structure for a display device includes a base member fixed to a rear surface of the display device, a support member which is fixed pivotably to the base member and supports the display device in a supporting position in an opened state where the display device is inclined at a predetermined angle and capable of being stored in a closed state, a holding member fixed to the base member including a regulation portion that regulates rotation of the support member beyond the supporting position, a pressure member that presses an end portion of the support member, and a compression coiled spring that urges the pressure member toward the support member. The pressure member includes a protruded portion having a triangular cross section, and inclined surfaces contacting with the support member while pressing the end portion when the support member rotates from the closed state to the opened state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Assignee: Funai Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masuo Ogawa, Katsuhiko Makino
  • Patent number: 7441359
    Abstract: Provided is a circular advertising frame for receiving a picture, comprising a main frame, a socket half-frame, an insert half-frame, a hanging ring, a concave-convex locking device, and a diaphragm. The circular advertising frame features convenient hanging, easy picture replacement, good stability, esthetic shape and light weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Inventor: Dehai Wang
  • Publication number: 20080229634
    Abstract: A vehicle plate retention frame and removably affixed cover plate. The retention frame may have at least one first part of a two-part separable fastener disposed thereon. The cover plate has at least one second part of the two-part separable fastener associated therewith so that the cover plate may be removably affixed to the retention frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Francis E. Collins
  • Patent number: 7421813
    Abstract: A simple structure of display device having the function of self-balance and prevent falling caused by an external force is disclosed to include a display, a base, which has a convex bottom surface and is fixedly connected to the bottom side of the display, and an adjustable counterweight structure, which has a weight that can be moved with one hand to change the center of gravity of the display device and to further adjust the viewing angle of the display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Assignee: Hannspree, Inc.
    Inventors: Guan-De Liou, Chia-Pine Huang, Li-Li Lai, Stephen Tsai
  • Patent number: 7421812
    Abstract: A simple structure of display device having the function of self-balance and prevent falling caused by an external force is disclosed to include a display, a base, which has a convex bottom surface and is fixedly connected to the bottom side of the display, and an adjustable counterweight structure, which has a weight that can be moved with one hand to change the center of gravity of the display device and to further adjust the viewing angle of the display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Assignee: Hannspree, Inc.
    Inventors: Guan-De Liou, Chia-Pine Huang, Li-Li Lai, Stephen Tsai
  • Patent number: 7398613
    Abstract: A simple structure of display device having the function of self-balance and prevent falling caused by an external force is disclosed to include a display, a base, which has a convex bottom surface and is fixedly connected to the bottom side of the display, and an adjustable counterweight structure, which has a weight that can be moved with one hand to change the center of gravity of the display device and to further adjust the viewing angle of the display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Assignee: Hannspree, Inc.
    Inventors: Guan-De Liou, Chia-Pine Huang, Li-Li Lai, Stephen Tsai
  • 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: 20080163530
    Abstract: A book frame comprising a book having a front cover and a back cover, the front cover having an aperture; a one or more pages interposed between the front cover and back cover, wherein a portion of a first page is visible through the aperture; and an easel that is deployed to display the book as a book frame. The book frame may be adapted to hold a printed image. A method of making a book frame comprising the steps of capturing an image; processing the image to print a photograph; manipulating the photograph for display in the book frame; inserting the photograph into the book frame; and presenting the book frame to the intended recipient for display. A method of displaying a book frame comprising the steps of: providing an image for display; receiving a book frame with a printed image; and deploying an easel to display the book frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2007
    Publication date: July 10, 2008
    Inventors: Tonya Lynn Smith, Bart Wilson
  • 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: 20070245614
    Abstract: A method of keeping a picture level on the wall. An L-Shaped Plastic bracket is placed under a picture frame with the lip of the frame resting on the I-shaped bracket (picture stays). It is then marked and nailed into place by 3 nails. The frame is then place back on the wall and is stopped from moving, keeping it straight on the wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2006
    Publication date: October 25, 2007
    Inventor: Deborah Ann Clowers
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20040221500
    Abstract: A picture frame system comprises a base, a flexible gooseneck extending from the base, a mount and a trim panel disposed at an end of the gooseneck away from the base. The gooseneck is a jointed, articulated tube with a resiliency sufficient to support a load defined by the mount, trim panel, and a picture. Optionally, a plurality of flexible goosenecks can extend from the base and each can have a different axial length. Also optionally, the mount and trim plate can be configured so that the trim panel is magnetically seatable on the mount for retaining the picture between the mount and the trim panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2003
    Publication date: November 11, 2004
    Applicant: Adesso Inc.
    Inventors: Lee Schaak, Duan-Cheng Hsieh
  • Publication number: 20040181990
    Abstract: The present invention provides for a photo display system having a decorative frame, an imaged transparency disposed on the decorative frame and a diffuser film disposed on the imaged transparency. The photo display system also has a base having a means for mounting the decorative frame and a means for attaching a diffuse reflector. The diffuse reflector is disposed behind the decorative frame as viewed from the imaged transparency side of the photo display system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2003
    Publication date: September 23, 2004
    Applicant: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: ALAN G. MILLER, DOUGLAS P. HILLS
  • Publication number: 20040093781
    Abstract: A spherical ornament having first and second message fields, wherein the first message field has a dark field with at least one star superimposed thereon and a striped field proximate to the dark field, and the second field contains a second message. In a preferred embodiment, the dark field is a blue equilateral triangle with a plurality of white stars, and is contacted on at least two sides by a field of red stripes on a white background. In a preferred embodiment, the ornament is an antenna ball, dangler, or pen and pencil topper, having a diameter between about 1 and about 2 inches. The second message field can be used to advertise a business entity or cause, or send another desired message. A unique spring mount, advertising method, and advertising devices are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Publication date: May 20, 2004
    Inventor: Lisa Keren Mentz Sievers
  • Publication number: 20040083636
    Abstract: A device for displaying at least one picture includes a support member and a plaque. The plaque includes a plate member and an adhesive layer on a side of the plate member for adhering the picture to the plate member. A swivel suspends the plaque from the support member so that the plaque freely moves like a mobile. Preferably, the plaque includes an adhesive layer on each side so that pictures can be mounted on each side of the plaque.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventor: Bob Cohn
  • Patent number: 6615525
    Abstract: A multi display mode picture frame is constructed to include a flat rectangular frame base and a back support. The frame base has a front side adapted for holding a picture, at least one first mounting hole and at lest one second mounting hole in a back side thereof, each first mounting hole being spaced between the center of the back side and the mid point of one short peripheral side, each second mounting hole being spaced between the center of the back side and the mid point of one long peripheral side. The back support has a first end detachably coupled to one mounting hole of the frame base and a second end forming with one peripheral side of the frame base a triangle that supports the picture frame on a flat surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Inventor: Jung-Shih Chang
  • Patent number: 6564490
    Abstract: A picture plant assembly for providing an ornamental and attractive method of displaying photographs. The picture plant assembly includes a holder assembly including a base container having an open top and a bottom wall; and also includes a plurality of stems being removably disposed in the base container; and further includes a plurality of picture frames being removably attached to the stems and being adapted to support pictures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Inventor: Omar Avila
  • Patent number: 6553704
    Abstract: A picture frame is comprised of a frame with open opposite sides for displaying pictures on both sides. Partitions in the frame define slots that receive picture holders. Entrances to the slots are arranged on one edge of the frame. Each picture holder is comprised of two transparent sheets joined along three edges. An open edge is arranged for receiving a picture. Offset notches along the partitions between the slots enable the holders to be grabbed more easily. A pin is inserted through tabs projecting from the partitions for locking in the holders. The frame is pivoted on a base, so that the frame can be pivoted back when reversed. A slidable arm is attached to the base, and is slid toward the side that the frame is tilted to improve stability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Inventor: Arthur Pigg
  • Publication number: 20020133995
    Abstract: A molded unibody plastic display frame accepts and borders a photograph or similar media. The frame includes a media insertion slot and holds a picture, or other thin and flat media, with a traditional framing border around the media when it is inserted into the frame. Preferred features include an integral stand/and or hangers. Geometry of the preferred frame permits it to be formed in a single plastic mold injection. A preferred stand moves about a living hinge defined in a backing portion, and includes locking portions to lock it into a predetermined angle. Other optional features include interconnection structures such as male posts and female cups formed at frame edges.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2002
    Publication date: September 26, 2002
    Inventors: Eric N. Cress, Girard G. Phillips
  • Patent number: 6338216
    Abstract: An improved artist and display easel that is secured from the top by use of a crossbar that interlocks with the easel to firmly hold a standard canvas or display up to twenty-four inches in height. The easel is preferably made of a flexible material so that it can be repeatedly bent down the centerline of weakness. The centerline fold creates tension on both side panels causing outward pressure. The top crossbar holds the easel body securely in place by interlocking notches. The top crossbar also holds the top of a display or canvas securely to the easel body. There are seven different height settings that correspond to standard canvas sizes. In addition, a bottom crossbar can be interlocked to the easel body to raise the base height of a display or canvas. The use of flexible material gives the easel portability, low cost and disposability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2002
    Inventor: Susan L. Young
  • Publication number: 20010045040
    Abstract: An easel for coupling to the back of a clip frame by one or more clip frame clips that hook around the front of the clip frame and engage in slots in the back of the clip frame, the easel comprising an easel body; and at least one opening defined in the easel, whereby a clip is passed through at least one such opening and engaged in a slot in the back of the clip frame, to hold the easel body relative to the back of the clip frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2001
    Publication date: November 29, 2001
    Inventor: Robert R. DelFrate
  • Patent number: 6282827
    Abstract: A stand for a picture frame has a leg is provided which can support the frame in a generally upright position. The stand comprises a bracket coupled to the rear of the frame and the leg is receivable by the bracket in either of a first orientation, in which the leg lies against or adjacent the rear of the frame to minimize the bulk of the stand, and a second orientation in which the leg projects backward from the frame to support it. Engagement of the leg and bracket is by a projection, which is preferably formed on the leg, and a slot, which is preferably defined by the bracket, the projection being insertable in the slot. The bracket may also be adapted to receive a hook for hanging the frame, e.g. by inclusion of an appropriate cut-away.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Inventor: Kenneth Holmes
  • Patent number: 6227504
    Abstract: The present invention discloses blanks and the stands formed therefrom for holding and supporting cards. The stand can display creased greeting cards either horizontally or vertically. The blank includes a triangular-shaped base section having in its first adaptation, a pair of diverging side panels and diverging foldable joints, and in its second adaptation, a pair of opposed side panels and parallel foldable joints. Adhesive means are further provided for attaching and placing the blank/stand in the desired position and location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventor: Seth Seaberg
  • Patent number: 6219950
    Abstract: A photo frame comprises a frame member, a mini-fan pivotably mounted on a side of the frame, and a battery case pivotably mounted on a position abutted against an opposite side of the frame for providing power to the mini-fan and supporting frame so as to enable pivotable adjustment of the mini-fan and battery case in response to a vertically or horizontally standing photo frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Inventor: Chin-Tien Hsu
  • Patent number: 6189250
    Abstract: A magnetic picture display device is described. The invention includes a horizontal ground surface, a planar item to be displayed, a first support element and at least one front surface-contacting member. The display item has a front surface, a rear surface and at least one edge. The first support element has at least one ground surface contacting portion and at least one rear surface contacting portion. The rear surface-contacting portion includes ferromagnetic material. The front surface-contacting member includes a high-strength magnet. To use the invention the ground surface contacting is located on the ground surface and the rear surface of the item is located on the rear surface contacting portion of the first support element. The front surface contacting member is located on the front surface of the item at a point closest to the rear surface contacting portion of the first support element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Inventor: Thomas Bell
  • Patent number: 6163997
    Abstract: A Vehicle-Mountable Picture Frame is disclosed. Also disclosed is a frame that includes a front side and a back side and a pocket formed therebetween, and having an aperture at the top for inserting photographs therethrough. The frame further includes one or more display portions disposed on the front side for displaying indicia there. The frame further includes a variety of attachment mechanisms that are connected to the backside of the frame via a swiveling attachment. The attachment mechanisms are configured to attach to a variety of surfaces within a vehicle, and further to permit the interchangeability of the attachment mechanisms with a variety of other types of mechanisms. The frame further is available in a variety of shapes and sizes to provide a package that is pleasing to the user's eye.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Inventor: Peter Deralas
  • Patent number: 6151822
    Abstract: A plastic T card holder formed from molded plastic pieces permanently united face to face and defining between them a pocket which will snugly receive a thin rectangular card. The pocket has a long upper opening through which a card may be introduced and a narrow lower opening through which a knife blade, a stiff card or the like can be inserted to dislodge the card upwardly. The card holder has considerable advantages of economy of manufacture and provides improved protection of the card and is resistant to breakage as compared with the conventional card holders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Inventor: Richard E. H. Kenney
  • Patent number: 6068903
    Abstract: Pop-up items are provided which can either be mounted in three-dimensional form on a suitable supporting surface by means of pressure-sensitive adhesive carried by the item or can be affixed to facing panels of a letter or pages of a book. Some preferred items include a pop-up element in the form of one or two panels carrying strategically located pressure-sensitive adhesive which permits instant mounting, e.g. between facing panels so that, upon opening, the pop-up element assumes a three-dimensional configuration as a result of the pressure-sensitive adhesive bonding to the surfaces of facing panels or pages. The 3-dimensional pop-up can also be mounted to a suitable supporting surface. A variety of methods for the mass production of such pop-up elements from a continuous web, e.g., a printed and die-cut web from a web press, facilitate their inexpensive fabrication. These pop-up elements are preferably marketed or distributed in groups, e.g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2000
    Assignee: Papermasters, Inc.
    Inventor: John K. Volkert
  • Patent number: 5871828
    Abstract: Pop-up items are provided which can either be mounted in three-dimensional form on a suitable supporting surface by means of pressure-sensitive adhesive carried by the item or can be affixed to facing panels of a letter or pages of a book. Some preferred items include a pop-up element in the form of one or two panels carrying strategically located pressure-sensitive adhesive which permits instant mounting, e.g. between facing panels so that, upon opening, the pop-up element assumes a three-dimensional configuration as a result of the pressure-sensitive adhesive bonding to the surfaces of facing panels or pages. The 3-dimensional pop-up can also be mounted to a suitable supporting surface. A variety of methods for the mass production of such pop-up elements from a continuous web, e.g., a printed and die-cut web from a web press, facilitate their inexpensive fabrication. These pop-up elements are preferably marketed or distributed in groups, e.g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1999
    Assignee: Papermaster, Inc.
    Inventor: John K. Volkert
  • Patent number: 5722623
    Abstract: An upright display assembly (10) including a display holder (12), a set of display mounting brackets (14), and a set of extension pieces (16, 18). Each display mounting bracket (14) includes a C-shaped clamp for attachment to the front rail of display shelving (20, 22, 24).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1998
    Assignee: Burke Gibson, Inc.
    Inventor: Scott Stephen Gibson
  • Patent number: 5582888
    Abstract: Pop-up items are provided which can either be mounted in three-dimensional form on a suitable supporting surface by means of pressure-sensitive adhesive carried by the item or can be affixed to facing panels of a letter or pages of a book. Some preferred items include a pop-up element in the form of one or two panels carrying strategically located pressure-sensitive adhesive which permits instant mounting, e.g. between facing panels so that, upon opening, the pop-up element assumes a three-dimensional configuration as a result of the pressure-sensitive adhesive bonding to the surfaces of facing panels or pages. The 3-dimensional pop-up can also be mounted to a suitable supporting surface. A variety of methods for the mass production of such pop-up elements from a continuous web, e.g., a printed and die-cut web from a web press, facilitate their inexpensive fabrication. These pop-up elements are preferably marketed or distributed in groups, e.g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 10, 1996
    Assignee: Papermasters, Inc.
    Inventor: John K. Volkert
  • Patent number: 5515629
    Abstract: A frame for framing a poster or similar on a wall is disclosed. The frame requires no rigid backing element since the wall itself serves to support the poster. The frame includes a top piece, at least two side members and a plurality of corner pieces for connecting the top piece and the side members to form an enclosing frame. Each of the side members has a front portion and a rear portion, with these portions being connected together to form an inwardly facing groove for receiving edge portions of the poster. The rear portion is in the form of a thin flange having opposed front and rear surfaces with the front surface partially delimiting the groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 14, 1996
    Inventor: Gert Johansson
  • Patent number: D407119
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1999
    Inventor: Patrick P. Kwan