Support Movable To A Nonsupporting Position Patents (Class 40/748)
  • Patent number: 12049100
    Abstract: A system includes a foldable dry erase board forming a continuous surface area for writing thereon. The dry erase board includes a first panel foldably attached to a second panel about a pivot joint. The method includes creating the continuous dry erase marker board surface with the first panel and the second panel and folding the first panel onto the second panel about the pivot joint extending partially through a thickness of the board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2021
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2024
    Inventor: Ronald Bowie
  • Patent number: 12031669
    Abstract: A mounting assembly that can couple to a case for handheld electronic devices is disclosed herein. The mounting assembly can include a ring that can be rotated between deployed and stowed configurations. The ring can include flat edges flat edges that can securely support the case at an angle relative to a support surface. The mounting assembly can include a mount with a magnet that can be used to couple the case with the handheld electronic device therein to magnetic surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2021
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2024
    Assignee: RokForm IP LLC
    Inventor: Jeff Whitten
  • Patent number: 11691451
    Abstract: A greeting card has a removable memento. The greeting card is one or more panels having a cutline extending entirely through the thickness of the greeting card. The portion of the card having a periphery defined by the continuous cutline acts as a. The greeting card may also have a coextensive second layer formed from paper, poster board, cardboard, a wooden panel, a photograph and the like. The greeting card may also be have two equally sized wooden panels attached to the same side of a second layer capable of forming a bendable hinge or joint between the two panels, allowing the two wooden panels to be rotated about the hinge 180° or 360°.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2023
    Inventor: Ganna Golovata
  • Patent number: 11605312
    Abstract: A protective case for a collectible includes a cover and a base. The cover includes a transparent panel having a top surface and a bottom surface, and a flange extending from a periphery of the bottom surface to define a recess. The flange has an inward facing surface facing the recess, and a slot extending inwardly from the inward facing surface. The base includes a transparent plate that is nested in the recess. The plate has a top edge, a bottom edge, and a sidewall extending between the top edge and the bottom edge. The sidewall includes a tab that is received and locked in the slot, to oppose removal of the plate from the recess. A collectible can be positioned between the plate and the panel and received in a seat of the plate and/or the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2022
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2023
    Inventor: Cheong Chiu
  • Patent number: 11364737
    Abstract: A system for creating personalized greetings and letters including a scroll assembly, a stencil assembly, and an ink assembly is disclosed herein. The scroll assembly includes a scroll having two posts, wherein the scrolls hold together a sheet of paper. The scroll assembly resembles the form of writing used in the eighteenth century when people wrote messages on scrolls. The stencil assembly includes a stencil that provides a user with multiple images and indicia for writing onto the scroll. These indicia include but are not limited to the English alphabet and numbers for including on the scroll. The ink assembly includes an ink container holding ink wherein a user may use the brush or painting material of their choice to write on the scroll. A user may then use the ink provided to etch the stencil into the scroll to write a personalized greeting or letter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2022
    Inventor: Debra Culton
  • Patent number: 9873284
    Abstract: A device with a retractable stand including a device body and a stand panel slidably coupled to the device body. The stand panel is slidably movable between a retracted configuration, wherein the stand panel is generally flat and planar, and an extended configuration wherein the stand panel is not generally flat and planar. When said stand panel is in the extended configuration the stand panel forms a stand to support the device body in an upright position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2018
    Assignee: ACCO BRANDS CORPORATION
    Inventor: Michael D. Rowe
  • Patent number: 9724444
    Abstract: A scent frame includes a frame body, a rear plate, a transparent plate, a scent layer, and a rear cover. The frame body includes a frame window. The rear plate is on one side of the frame body and fixedly connected to the frame body. The rear plate includes an opening. The transparent plate is in the frame body to shield the frame window. A receiving space is formed between the transparent plate and the opening. The scent layer is in the receiving space and near to one surface of the transparent plate. The rear cover is on the opening of the rear plate to shield the receiving space. The rear cover includes one through hole. Accordingly, fragrance of the scent layer can be spread from the through hole, and the scent frame can be placed on a surface or hung on a wall, based on different needs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2017
    Inventor: Cha-Lin Jean
  • Patent number: 9729183
    Abstract: A mobile terminal case and a method of manufacturing the same are provided. The mobile terminal case includes a three-dimensional curved body or plane shape having a circumferential edge lower than its center and formed from a fiber reinforced composite material; and a gradation paint layer formed at an outer surface of the body formed from fiber reinforced composite material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2017
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kwangjin Bae, Heecheul Moon, Iksu Jung, Jongchul Choi
  • Patent number: 8997389
    Abstract: A picture frame and hanger combination features a reel for winding and unwinding of the cord, a locking mechanism to lock the cord in any of a number of partially unwound states of different length, and a frame bordering a picture opening for receiving a picture in a position facing outward from the picture opening to a front side of the frame. The frame has a hollow cavity positioned and sized to accommodate the reel and locking mechanism, which may be combined into a single unit, in positions at least partially recessed in the frame and concealed from the front side thereof. The recessing of the reel into the frame avoids bulky installation on the rear of the frame that may otherwise prevent the frame from lying closely against the wall or other upright surface behind the picture frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Inventor: Deborah L. Folk
  • Patent number: 8899541
    Abstract: An adjustable fastener includes a base having a first surface and an opposing second surface. At least two flanges extend outwardly from the second surface. The flanges are spaced-apart along a longitudinal axis of the base. At least one tab is movably attached to the base. The tab is positioned between the two flanges and includes at least one rib extending outwardly therefrom. A carriage is movably attachable to the base. The carriage is directly attachable to at least a portion of an object. The carriage includes at least one elongated extension having a plurality of complementary spaced-apart ribs for engaging the rib of the tab of the base to locate and retain the elongated extension on the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Inventor: Joshua E. Bixler
  • Patent number: 8807502
    Abstract: An adjustable fastener includes a base configured to be fixedly attached to a structure. The base defines a longitudinally extending channel therein. At least a portion of the channel has a plurality of spaced-apart ribs or teeth extending inwardly into the channel. A carriage is movably attached to the base. The carriage is directly attachable to at least a portion of an object. The carriage includes at least two laterally spaced-apart elongated extensions. Each extension has a plurality of complimentary spaced-apart ribs or teeth for engaging the plurality of ribs or teeth of the base to locate and retain the elongated extensions within the channel of the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Inventor: Joshua E. Bixler
  • Patent number: 8520371
    Abstract: A digital photo frame includes a body, a back shell defining a hole and a rotary support. The rotary support is rotatably connected to the back shell, includes a rotary base rotatably received in the hole, a connection member pivotedly connected to the rotary base, and an elongated support body slidably coupled to the connection member. The connection member includes a spring tab, a support body defining a plurality of channels. The channels are arranged along a lengthwise direction of the connection portion. the spring tab is selectively snappingly engaged in one of the channels. One of the rotary base and the back shell includes a plurality of protrusions, and the other one of the rotary base and the back shell defines a plurality of notches corresponding to the protrusions, the protrusions are snappingly engaging in the respective notches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jiu-Cheng Peng, Ping-Chou Chen, Chi Tang, Jian Liu
  • Patent number: 8375520
    Abstract: A back closure for a multi-use frame includes a base plate and a lever. The base plate has a first and second knuckle. A tab is defined within the base plate between the first and second knuckle. The tab has spring-bias. A lever is connected to the base plate for movement relative to the base plate. The lever and the base plate have a common axis for movement relative to one another. The lever includes a center knuckle which is positioned between the first and second knuckle of the base plate. The center knuckle defining a slot for receipt of the tab to provide snap action. In operation, a user moves the lever relative to the base plate about a common axis. The tab of the base plate engages the slot defined within the lever to prevent further travel of the lever.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Craft, Inc. a Massachusettes Corporation
    Inventor: Armand E Roy
  • Patent number: 8276870
    Abstract: A hanging structure includes a back bezel recessed with a bezel recess, a first hanging member, and a second hanging member. The first hanging member movably arranged in the bezel recess includes an ear-shaped hanging part which is axially recessed with an accommodating hole with a first guiding path at side face. The first guiding path includes an axial segment and two positioning notches obliquely extending from the axial segment. The second hanging member movably arranged in the accommodating hole includes a main body and a mushroom-shaped hanging part. The main body, at its surface, includes a guiding protrusion which is movably arranged in the first guiding path of the first hanging member. The mushroom-shaped hanging part selectively extends out of the accommodating hole depending on which positioning notch the guiding protrusion moves into. Therefore, the hanging structure has various hanging modes to be selected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Hannspree, Inc.
    Inventors: Wen-Hung Huang, Stephen Tsai
  • Patent number: 8146869
    Abstract: A base structure can support a monitor. A fixed portion is firmly disposed on the rear casing of the monitor and contains at least one slide rail. A slide portion can move up and down the slide rail. A spring is linked to the fixed portion and the slide portion. One end of the push bar is pivotally linked to the slide portion. A first stand is firmly disposed on the rear casing. A second stand is pivotally linked to the first stand. Another end of the push bar is pivotally linked to the second stand. In this manner, the monitor may adjust the expanding angle of the second stand so as to place the monitor on the desk or hang the monitor on the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: TPV Electronics (Fujian) Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Xiao Wang, Lixia Wang, Wen-Hsiung Huang
  • Patent number: 8118274
    Abstract: A support mechanism for supporting an object on a surface is disclosed. The support mechanism includes a joint connected to the object; and a stand connected to the joint. The joint may selectively rotate to allow the stand to support the object on the surface in: a first position comprising a landscape orientation at a first angle between the object and the surface, a second position comprising a landscape orientation at a second angle between the object and the surface, a third position comprising a portrait orientation at a third angle between the object and the surface, and a fourth position comprising a portrait orientation at a fourth angle between the object and the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen R. McClure, Joshua D. Banko
  • Patent number: 8109022
    Abstract: A device includes a housing defining a first opening, and a casing fixed within the housing defining a second opening opposite to the first opening. The device also includes a sliding member slidably received in the casing, and a stand pivotally connected to the sliding member including an end received in the first opening. A retaining member is slidably connected to the casing to magnetically attract the sliding member to retain the sliding member at a predetermined position. An ejection mechanism is arranged within the casing to be pushed by the retaining member to push the sliding member to move the end out of the first opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Wei Wu, Xin Yang
  • Patent number: 8079166
    Abstract: A support assembly for a digital photo frame is provided. The support assembly comprises a base member, a pivot member, a support arm, a positioning structure, and a an elastic member. The base member comprises two side walls spaced from each other. The support arm comprises a connection end disposed between the two side walls and is rotatably attached to the base member via the pivot member. The connection end comprises a first surface and a second surface opposite to each other. The pivot member is attached across the two side walls. The positioning structure is disposed on the first surface and the side wall opposite the first surface and comprises a projection portion and at least two concave portions. The projection portion is capable of being received in the at least two concave portions, the two concave portions intersect to form an edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ming Li, Chi-Hsie Fong, Kun-Chih Hsieh
  • Patent number: 8074385
    Abstract: A light-weight display easel assembly for use with photographs and photographic greeting cards is described, wherein the display device is a substantially planar sheet or panel of paperboard or similar cellulose-containing material having a plurality of die-cut flaps thereon, each of the die-cut flaps having one scored edge which allows for the outward folding of the flap. The display easel further comprises a plurality of adhesive strips on the front face of the paperboard, for attachment of a photograph or photographic greeting card thereto. The display easel, once assembled, is lightweight enough such that it can be mailed without the need for excess postage fees. Additionally, due to the attachment of the display easel to substantially the entire back face of a photograph, the entire photograph is fully supported and is therefore resistant to creases, indentations, warping, and other damages which can occur during the mailing process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Cole & Ashcroft L.P.
    Inventor: Paul A. Wagner
  • Patent number: 7818904
    Abstract: A light-weight display easel assembly for use with photographs and photographic greeting cards is described, wherein the display device is a substantially planar sheet or panel of paperboard or similar cellulose-containing material having a plurality of die-cut flaps thereon, each of the die-cut flaps having one scored edge which allows for the outward folding of the flap. The display easel further comprises a plurality of adhesive strips on the front face of the paperboard, for attachment of a photograph or photographic greeting card thereto. The display easel, once assembled, is lightweight enough such that it can be mailed without the need for excess postage fees. Additionally, due to the attachment of the display easel to substantially the entire back face of a photograph, the entire photograph is fully supported and is therefore resistant to creases, indentations, warping, and other damages which can occur during the mailing process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: Cole & Ashcroft, LP
    Inventor: Paul F. Wagner
  • Publication number: 20100218409
    Abstract: The Frame Saver is essentially a brace that is specially designed to reinforce frame stands when they lose their stability. Manufactured of a durable thermoplastic plastic material, this product is a splint-type apparatus, configured to slide directly onto the frame stand at the point of compromise.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2010
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Inventor: James J. Dietz
  • Patent number: 7627967
    Abstract: A box assembled from folded sheet material such as paperboard forms a container for a gift object. The container includes a front shroud or cover which opens to reveal the gift object mounted on a background within a framed window. The front cover is attached at the bottom, rear of the container and folds over the top to form a cover of the window. The front cover opens and folds at the rear of the container to form a stand that holds the container upright to display the gift object. The background and perimeter of the window frame may include decorative scenes, slogans, trademarks or other gift card messages or decorations which may be associated with the gift object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Inventor: Brian Peter Torvik
  • Publication number: 20090119965
    Abstract: An improved picture frame having an open display pocket mounted behind a viewing aperture for quickly and easily changing the picture displayed within the frame. A storage compartment extends from the rear of the display pocket for conveniently storing a plurality of pictures while they are not being displayed, and a peripheral easel is mounted to the rear of the frame for supporting the frame in either a portrait or landscape orientation without interfering or traversing the display pocket or the storage compartment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2007
    Publication date: May 14, 2009
    Applicant: WILTON INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: Joshua Michael Broehl, James Huang Lua
  • Patent number: 7484326
    Abstract: A display apparatus (1) includes: a plate-like display apparatus main body (2); a leg portion (3) whose upper end is rotatably connected to a rear surface (6) of the display apparatus main body (2) and whose lower end is opened to thereby support the rear surface (6) of the display apparatus main body (2); and an urging mechanism (9) arranged between the display apparatus main body (2) and the leg portion (3) and urging the leg portion (3) so as to open the leg portion (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Assignee: King Jim Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Junya Tamura, Tatsuya Haneda
  • 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: 7415786
    Abstract: A greeting or announcement card includes integrated picture mailer and frame. An illustrative embodiment of the card is made by die cutting thick paper stock. The card includes front and back portions disposed side-by-side, and a middle portion disposed under the back portion. Adhesive strips cover the inside of the back portion or of the middle portion. When the card is assembled, it is folded along a line to bring into contact the inside surfaces of the middle and back portions, forming a holding pocket open on one side. A picture can be inserted into the pocket and viewed through an aperture in the middle portion. After insertion, the front portion is folded towards the pocket, and the card is mailed. The card's recipient tears off the front portion, and pulls on a precut tab in the back portion, forming a picture frame with an easel-like stand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Inventor: Mark W. Boydston
  • Publication number: 20080028657
    Abstract: A picture frame stand has a bracket (10) for mounting to the rear of a picture frame or to a panel at the rear of a frame. A support (12) is mounted pivotally to the bracket (10) by a cylindrical bar (16) received in a channel (33). The surface of the cylindrical bar is smooth and the channel (33) is a part-cylindrical section of the bracket (10) whose surface also is smooth, but with an inherent radial springiness to grip the smooth bar sufficiently to hold a selected angular position between the bracket and support. However, the frictional grip can be overcome by manually so that the angular disposition of the bracket and support can be adjusted. The channel (33) is defined so that the mouth of the part-cylindrical channel will face towards the rear panel or picture frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2006
    Publication date: February 7, 2008
    Inventor: Kenneth Holmes
  • Patent number: 7301759
    Abstract: A bracket assembly for a portable unit. The assembly is pivotally mounted to the back of the unit and includes a frame member secured to the pivotally mounted member. A cover assembly is releasably secured to the frame member and can be moved to various positions with respect thereto. The cover assembly includes a locking assembly for locking and unlocking the cover assembly relative to the frame member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Assignee: Silicon Electron Pyrimid Ltd.
    Inventor: Chen Kuo Hsiung
  • Patent number: 7284739
    Abstract: The present invention provides a stand for albums, scrapbooks and the like which is simple and compact causing no trouble to a user. Means for fixing an attaching portion of a stand capable to bend through a fold line to a back cover of an album, a scrapbook or the like and connecting the back cover and the support leg with a strip to adjust a bending angle of the support leg are adapted. Means for providing one end of a strip between a core material and a cloth material at a bottom line of a support leg and providing another end of the strip between a core material and an end paper at a bottom border of a back cover are applied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2007
    Assignee: Nakabayashi Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hideyuki Yasuki
  • Patent number: 7249739
    Abstract: A display stand comprises a connecting seat and supporting plate. A vertical guiding slot is disposed on said connecting seat. A rack and a control section are installed respectively at the two flank sides of the vertical guiding slot, in which the control section has a locking bar accepted in the slider, and one end thereof is engaged with the rack. After a panel is combined with connecting seat, said locking bar is driven to move along a single direction to be separated from the engagement of said rack by pulling the pull rod of the control section to push a skewed slot, and the slider is caused to slide up and down along the sliding slot by pulling said pull rod so as to change a relative angle between the connecting seat and the supporting plate. Finally, the pull rod is released to complete a positioning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Coretronic Corporation
    Inventors: Chien-Tsai Chueh, Min Hao Yuan
  • Patent number: 6832446
    Abstract: Pictures and picture backs are improved with the use of an easel back that is fashioned to be a double hook for hanging the picture on a wall. The double loop hanging system described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,405,466 is improved with the use of this device. The easel flap supports the picture on a surface and allows for the fastening of the picture onto the surface. When it is removed from the picture the easel flap provides a side adjusting means for hanging a picture level on a wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2004
    Inventor: Robert J. Lemire
  • Patent number: 6817129
    Abstract: A kit is provided for a pendant like award that assembles into an attractive display. It comprises the plaque-like member having peripheral edges on the front side with decorative materials, adhesives, and a location for event information, a predetermined cavity on back side having a counter bore rim with sides and bottom edge, a clearance cut on the top interior edge of the cavity and a fastener hole near each corner. A felt pad is positioned near each backside corner of the plaque-like member to protect other surfaces. Also a predetermined cover plate having a notch for means of either affixation to a wall surface, or used as an attachment of a leg for free standing. Fasteners are positioned through counter sunk holes in the cover plate into the plaque-like member in order to attach the cover plate. Once assembled, the invention provides a specific space where the ribbon can be stored.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Inventors: Craig Purdy, Christine Marquez, Mike Torsky
  • Patent number: 6779286
    Abstract: A panel display system comprises three separate, flat display panels, each with surfaces allowing for the easy, temporary attachment and ready removal of photographs, brochures, documents, visual aids or the like. One side of one of the panels is rotatably connected, by hinges, to one side of a second panel. The other side of the first panel is rotatably connected, by hinges, to one side of a third panel, such that the first panel becomes the central display panel in a three panel display configuration, with the other two panels in adjacent alignment. By rotating the panels about their hinges, the display system can readily, easily and quickly be converted to a single panel display or a dual panel display, without the use of tools or any other appliance. A header is provided for ready placement on and attachment to the display system, in each of its configurations. Support members are provided for use when the system is configured as a single panel display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2004
    Inventors: William H. Shaffer, Bruce R. Shaffer
  • Publication number: 20040154206
    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: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2003
    Publication date: August 12, 2004
    Inventor: Thomas Glazer
  • Patent number: 6751899
    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: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Inventors: Eric N. Cress, Girard G. Phillips
  • Patent number: 6694656
    Abstract: A frame system for object display includes a main frame with a frame face defining an opening for viewing a display object, a peripheral wall projecting away from the frame face and having first and second opposed segments, the segments formed with first and second female locking features, respectively, a receiving surface for the display object and an easel back selectively mountable on the main frame including a support assembly including a planar support panel and opposed male locking features on the peripheral edge interferingly engageable, respectively, with the female locking features on the opposed segments when the easel back is mounted onto the main frame. The support assembly includes a central panel for biasing the display object into engagement with the receiving surface and a web member extending transverse of the planes of the central panel and the support panel and joining the central panel and the support panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Assignee: Greene Plastics Corporation
    Inventors: James E. Flodin, Albert W. Seifert
  • Patent number: 6645031
    Abstract: A children's playboard of the type comprising a backing having a front surface of a cloth material for adhering figurines thereto and a back surface is disclosed. The children's playboard has a support structure. The support structure is fixedly attached to the playboard and has a pair of spaced bracing members and a pair of connection plates. Each bracing member has a first leg that is detachably joined to one of the pair of connection plates along a hinge. The bracing members are extendable at an angle from the playboard. The bracing members have a second leg and a third leg that are joined at an apex portion. The second leg having a greater length than the third leg. The apex is located between the second and third legs and provides support for the bracing members against a base surface wherein the backing member can be supported in at least two different angles to the base surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Assignee: Learning Curve International, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Rothkopf, Donald E. Toht, Gary D. Aigner, Mary Lenehan, K. Dale Weathington, Lisa Gelfond
  • Publication number: 20030177683
    Abstract: A package for the sale of image-quality printing paper facilitates digital image printing by providing blank sheets of image-quality printing paper pre-cut to accommodate image printing sizes for personal use. A rigid container is constructed and arranged to provide convenient protection, storage, display, and transportation of the blank sheets and the images subsequently printed thereon. The container may be provided with a multifunctional stand therein. Alternatively, or in addition, the container may be provided with a frame for surrounding, displaying, and holding the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2003
    Publication date: September 25, 2003
    Inventors: Clifton Ray Adkins, Jason Wyatt Adkins
  • Patent number: 6612061
    Abstract: A picture frame includes a flat sheet having opposite front and back sides and partitioned into top and bottom pages. The bottom page includes a picture site, and the top page includes a border. The border is sized to frame the picture site upon folding together of the top and bottom pages. A picture is printed on the picture site and is surrounded by the border printed with graphics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: NCR Corporation
    Inventor: Jason Janetzke
  • Patent number: 6505738
    Abstract: A CD package comprising a case with an indentation, formed with fold lines and cut lines to fold out a brace and a hitch, whereby bracing the case, or hanging the case. The CD package can be reused to be a photo frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Assignee: Ulead Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: David Lin
  • 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: 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: 6003260
    Abstract: A photograph frame assembly includes a rectangular photograph frame, a rectangular back plate secured to the photograph frame, and a supporting member which is retained on the back plate by a retainer. The retainer extends through the back plate to couple with the supporting member, thereby retaining the supporting member on the back plate in such a manner that the supporting member can rotate freely on the back plate. The supporting member supports the back plate in an inclined position, and can be folded on the back plate. Preferably, the supporting member includes a plate body having a horizontal bottom side and a coupling upper end portion, a unitary plastic fixed element fixed on the coupling upper end portion, and a unitary plastic movable element mounted movably on the fixed element. The movable element is coupled with the retainer, and is rotatable synchronously with the retainer on the back plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Assignee: Fanthing Electrical Corp.
    Inventor: Tung-Ming Chang
  • Patent number: 5933996
    Abstract: A photograph frame assembly includes a photograph frame, a back plate secured to the photograph frame, and a supporting member which is retained on the back plate by a retainer. The back plate has three interconnected sides which are arranged as a U-shape, and a slide slot unit, which is formed therethrough and which has an enlarged portion. The retainer extends through the slide slot unit in the back plate to couple with the supporting member, thereby retaining the supporting member on the back plate. The supporting member supports the back plate in an inclined position, and can be folded on the back plate. The retainer is capable of moving along the slide slot unit in the back plate, and of rotating within the enlarged portion of the slide slot unit so that the retainer can be moved to any position in the slide slot unit, thereby aligning a selected one of the three interconnected sides of the back plate with a horizontal bottom side of the supporting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Assignee: Fanthing Electrical Corp.
    Inventor: Tung-Ming Chang
  • Patent number: 5836565
    Abstract: A supporting device for a picture frame comprises a mount adapted to be securely attached to a picture frame back and a support piece. The mount has one or more pairs of opposite sides defined on a periphery thereof. The support piece is selectably received in a selected pair of holes in corresponding pair of opposite sides of the mount. Depending on which pair of holes is selected to receive the support piece, the support piece is adaptable to picture frames of different sizes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Inventor: Yao-ming Chang
  • Patent number: 5822897
    Abstract: A self-contained, built-in and reversible greeting, letter and/or photograph frame with cover, all suitable for mailing as an all-in-one unit, thereby eliminating the need for a separate envelope. In addition, when the unit is reversed upon itself and fastened, the unit becomes a stand exhibiting its content without the need of any additional elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1998
    Inventor: Michelle Ertzan
  • Patent number: 5784817
    Abstract: A picture holder and frame having a graphical image applied to a flat front surface and having a photo recess in the front surface sized to accept a photograph. The graphical image on the front surface provides an ornamental design, and the perimeter edge of the picture holder is conformed to follow the outline of the ornamental design. The rear surface of the picture holder includes a pivotal leg for serving as a stand support member and a magnetic strip for applying and adhering the picture holder to a metallic surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Inventor: Jerome G. Behme
  • Patent number: 5575094
    Abstract: A greeting card and picture frame combination (10) that consist of a greeting card (12) and a picture frame assembly (50). The card includes a front cover (14) having a front surface (16) that includes indicia (20) and a foldable back section (22). The picture frame assembly (50) includes a picture frame (52) having a front side (54), an inner longitudinal member (56), a back surface (58) and a lower member (64). The foldable back section (22) is attached to back surface (58) of the picture frame's inner longitudinal member (56). When the foldable back section (22) of the card (12) is extended outward, away from the back surface (58) of the picture frame (52), the lower edges of the card's front cover (14) and the lower member (64) of the picture frame (52) can be placed on a horizontal surface to allow both the front cover (14) and the front side (54) of the picture frame to be viewed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 19, 1996
    Inventors: Michael J. Leake, Albert O. Cota
  • Patent number: 5570526
    Abstract: A clip (12) for a picture frame assembly (10) includes a first and second leg (20,22) made from a spring steel. One leg has a Velcro fastener (26,30) for connection with a rear of the frame section and the other leg (22) has a catch (35) that laterally engages an edge (36) of a supportive tongue (18) to secure the tongue (18) at a desired angle with respect to the frame section (16) of the picture frame assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1996
    Inventor: Edward J. Wallon
  • Patent number: 5524370
    Abstract: A system for attaching a backing plate to a picture frame structure includes at least one clip releasably attached to the edge of the backing plate, the clip having a member which extends outwardly from the clip along substantially the same plane as the backing plate. The member of the clip is received within a groove formed in the picture frame structure. The system also includes a sliding lock mechanism releasably attached to the edge of the backing plate at a location generally opposite to the location of the clip. The sliding lock mechanism has a sliding lock member movable between a retracted position in which the sliding lock member is retracted inboard with respect to the peripheral edge of the backing plate and an operable position in which the sliding lock member is extended outboard beyond the peripheral edge of the backing plate and into the groove of the picture frame structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 11, 1996
    Assignee: Craft, Inc.
    Inventor: Armand E. Roy