Biased Patents (Class 40/792)
  • Patent number: 11933483
    Abstract: A passive system that creates a cross-flow and directly flow thermal management system to dissipate large amounts of heat in a slim light fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2022
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2024
    Assignee: LIBRA DESIGN LLC
    Inventor: Dung Duong
  • Patent number: 11925276
    Abstract: A display frame comprises exterior shelf units. The frame has interior shelf units which slidably and directly engage with each other and the exterior shelf units. The frame also comprises exterior connectors for connecting the exterior shelf units and the interior connectors. The interior connectors are hash shaped and oriented at an angle with respect to the vertical plane of the display frame and the sliding together of the exterior shelf units with the hash shaped connectors are used to expand display shelf frame. The exterior shelf units and the interior shelf units are slideably engaged with each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2022
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2024
    Inventor: Stephen Peaple
  • Patent number: 11882949
    Abstract: A frame apparatus for displaying a flat article and a combined frame apparatus and flat article. In one aspect, the frame apparatus includes a display frame defining a rabbet, a stack positioned in the rabbet, and a spacer apparatus. The rabbet is defined by a floor and a wall. The wall includes an engagement feature which may be a channel. The spacer apparatus is positioned in the rabbet and engagement features thereof extend into the channel in the wall od the rabbet to couple the spacer apparatus to the display frame. The spacer assembly may also be in contact with the stack to hold the stack in the rabbet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2024
    Inventors: Matthew Scott Kressin, Changhong Huang, Brad William Huff, Weisha Yu
  • Patent number: 11503928
    Abstract: A stand for use with a charging device, such as, but not limited to, a Qi Wireless Charger. The stand is in the form of a picture frame, and elevates the charging unit up off a desk or tabletop, at an angle where a device being charged can be placed thereupon. A portion of the back of the frame is removably secured, and provides a space for securely holding the wireless charging device therein. The charging device power cord is routed through a picture frame support extending from the back of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2022
    Inventor: Andrew Bradford Green
  • Patent number: 11096508
    Abstract: The presently disclosed subject matter is generally directed to a frame assembly that easily and efficiently allows a user to insert and/or remove an item from the frame. Specifically, the assembly comprises a generally rectangular support formed by one or more interconnected sidewalls that extend about the periphery of a central opening. The central opening is sized and shaped to fit any of a wide variety of display items (e.g., artwork, photographs, diplomas). The rear face of the assembly includes a plurality of rings. Each ring is flexible, allowing a displayed item to be easily and efficiently inserted and removed from the frame. The rings also function to retain the displayed item within the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2021
    Inventor: Daniel Wayne Lawton
  • Patent number: 10980363
    Abstract: A stand for use with a charging device, such as, but not limited to, a Qi Wireless Charger. The stand is in the form of a picture frame, and elevates the charging unit up off a desk or table top, at an angle where a device being charged can be placed thereupon. A portion of the back of the frame is removably secured, and provides a space for securely holding the wireless charging device therein. The charging device power cord is routed through a picture frame support extending from the back of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2021
    Inventor: Andrew Bradford Green
  • Patent number: 10889144
    Abstract: A decorative panel formed from at least a display panel secured to a frame. In some embodiments the panel comprises a transparent or translucent display panel and an interchangeable decorative insert disposed between the display panel and a supporting surface. In other embodiments an opaque display panel acts serves the function of both the display and decorative layers. A retaining frame is disposed about the periphery of the panels and retains the layers in generally abutting relation, the retaining frame being removable so as to permit replacement of the decorative insert or display panel. The retaining frame comprises a return flange disposed forwardly of the supporting surface at the position of the groove, such that the display panel is retained by the flange seated in the groove, generally concealing the retaining frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2021
    Assignee: ALEX-ANDRITE DESIGN INC.
    Inventor: Stephen Boychuk
  • Patent number: 10792833
    Abstract: The present invention is an attachable rolling plate assembly which can be attached as a single unit to a portable cutting tool to facilitate the safe rolling movement of the portable cutting tool on the workpiece. The invention comprises a frame assembly formed from a single piece of molded material such as fiber enriched plastic having a pair of oppositely disposed longitudinal sidewalls with stabilizer ribs extending therefrom, and a flat base portion having and opening through which a saw of a power saw extends. The plate has front and rear fastening members to retain a plate of a power cutting saw onto the rolling plate assembly. The invention also includes a cutting guide assembly to facilitate a straight cut, reduce torsional rotation of the saw blade and reduce kickback of the saw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2020
    Assignee: Circsaw Technologies LLC
    Inventor: Eric Knight
  • Patent number: 10681996
    Abstract: A planar display assembly is provided with a planar display pane in a frame with apertures formed about a periphery. Base members have a post received within the apertures. A retaining wall with ratchet teeth extends from each base member. Latch members with a hoop portion with a slot receive each retaining wall for adjustment in a direction toward the frame to accommodate display panes of varying thicknesses. A tooth is formed in each latch member to engage the ratchet teeth for adjustment. A release tab is provided on each latch member for manual release of the tooth from the ratchet teeth. A flexible arm extends from each latch members to engage and retain the planar display pane within the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2020
    Assignee: LIBERTY HARDWARE MFG. CORP.
    Inventors: Earl David Forrest, Ryan Patrick Martin, James Allen Austin, III
  • Patent number: 10149557
    Abstract: A frame (2) for framing a picture/an artwork (4) having a periphery (8) is disclosed. The frame (2) comprises a contact surface (10) provided at the inside (12) of the frame, which frame (2) comprises an opening (14), through which the picture/artwork (4) is mountable. At least one flexible member (6, 6?, 6?, 6??) extends along at least a portion of the contact surface (10). The at least one flexible member (6, 6?, 6?, 6??) is provided in such a manner that the flexible member (6, 6?, 6?, 6??) is configured to securely maintain the picture/artwork (4) within the frame (2) by means of a compression force (F1) and/or a friction force (F2) between the at least one flexible member (6, 6?, 6?, 6??) and the periphery (8). The flexible member (6, 6?, 6?, 6??) is compressible. The flexible member (6, 6?, 6?, 6??) is attached to the frame (2) in such a manner that the flexible member (6, 6?, 6?, 6??) is restricted from being moved along the width (axis X) of the contact face (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2018
    Assignee: PROJECKTMETIER V/ STIG VESTERGAARD
    Inventor: Stig Vestergaard
  • Patent number: 8857089
    Abstract: A frame of an electronic device is a closed frame and made of plastic material. The frame forms one or more tooth structures at the corners of the frame to extend further out or to be compactly arranged to be pushed closer together for changing a size of the frame. Each tooth structure includes a plurality of rectangular teeth and a plurality of trapezoidal teeth. The trapezoidal teeth are positioned between the rectangular teeth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignees: Fu Tai Hua Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Bin Dai
  • Patent number: 8733004
    Abstract: A picture frame molding according to one embodiment includes an elongated body that has an exterior wall, a first channel formed therein for receiving a first member, and a second channel formed therein for receiving a second member. The first and second channels are at least substantially parallel to one another. The elongated body also includes an interior angled wall that is joined to the exterior wall and is formed at an angle thereto. The interior angled wall includes a track that receives an object, such as matboard. The track faces away from the exterior wall and is formed between and at an angle to the first and second channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Nielsen Bainbridge
    Inventor: Michael Andrulewich
  • Patent number: 8627590
    Abstract: Disclosed is a frame assembly including a framing member and an extrusion member. The frame assembly further includes a sheet having a graphic thereon. The sheet includes a gasket at a perimeter thereof, and the gasket is positioned in a channel of the extrusion member such that the channel supports the sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Inventor: James D. Whitehead
  • Patent number: 8578641
    Abstract: A thin, illuminatable graphic support assembly comprising an elongated base rail having an elongated first edge and an elongated second edge; an elongated cover rail having an elongated planar portion arranged along one edge thereof, and an elongated ā€œJā€ shaped portion arranged along a second edge thereof, the elongated cover rail pivotable between an open orientation and a closed graphic or panel restraining position; an elongated receiving channel arranged in the elongated second edge of the base rail, with a biasing member arranged therein, and a fixture support first channel and a fixture support second channel on an outer lower side of the base rail, to enable the illuminable graphic support assembly to be selectively secured to a wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Rose Displays Ltd
    Inventors: Rebecca C. Suciu, Thomas P. Burrous, Pual P. Ellsworth, Alan L. Stenfors, Sidney Rose
  • Publication number: 20130247436
    Abstract: A display frame according to the principles of the present disclosure includes a plurality of frame sections forming a rectangular perimeter around a backing member. Each of the plurality of frame sections includes a base member, a rotatable cover member hinged to the base member, a channel attached to the cover member, and a spring mechanism interposed between the base member and the cover member to bias the cover member in an open position and a closed position. In various embodiments, the display frame further includes an insert that is slidably received in one of the channels. In one embodiment, the insert at least partially forms the front face of one the frame sections and displays at least one of text and graphics. In another embodiment, the insert includes a mounting feature for mounting an object to the display frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2013
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Inventors: Stefan N. TOLNA, Michael J. Hurley
  • Patent number: 8495830
    Abstract: A quick exchange framing system having two frames that are assembled together via a quick-release means such as a magnetic or friction force to provide easy access to a display, such as a picture or document, for ease in exchanging the display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Inventor: Rodney Price
  • Publication number: 20130180142
    Abstract: A float frame assembly that gives the appearance that the item retained within the frame appears to be floating therein. In one embodiment, the assembly comprises: a frame comprising a rabbet and an inner edge defining a display opening; a channel formed in a rear surface of the main body; a stack nesting in the rabbet comprising: a front glazing; a rear glazing positioned adjacent the front glazing; and a perimetric spacer positioned adjacent the rear glazing; a plurality of spring clips that retain the stack within the rabbet, each of the plurality of spring clips comprising a first portion disposed in the channel and a second portion that is in surface contact with the perimetric spacer, each of the plurality of spring clips biased so that the second portion applies a compression force against the perimetric spacer and the first portion is retained in the channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2012
    Publication date: July 18, 2013
    Applicant: MCS Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: MCS Industries, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8286380
    Abstract: An elongated abuttable snap frame arrangement for biasably, removably, capturing a display graphic support and for display thereof, the arrangement comprising: an elongated base panel, an elongated cover that is flexibly attached to the base panel at its upper edge, and an elongated hinge member flexibly attached to the elongated base panel and the elongated cover, the cover able to rotate from a parallel closed position to a generally perpendicular open position without interfering with adjacent objects or other abutting snap frame arrangements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Rose Displays, Ltd.
    Inventors: David E. Pitcher, Rebecca C. Suciu, Thomas P. Burrous, Paul P. Ellsworth, Alan L. Stenfors, Sidney Rose
  • Patent number: 8196325
    Abstract: A thin, graphic support assembly comprising an elongated base rail and an elongated cover rail which come together around a board to form four sides of a frame. A spring mechanism is fully captured after the base rail and cover rail are assembled together, and the angle and position of the spring channel allows the hinge location to be at the top/outer edge of the frame. The elongated base rail and elongated cover rail can be oriented in a parallel relationship when closed for capturing a display panel or a perpendicular relationship when open for inserting or removing a display panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Rose Displays, Ltd
    Inventors: David E. Pitcher, Thomas P. Burrous, Rebecca C. Suciu, Paul P. Ellsworth, Alan L. Stenfors, Sidney Rose
  • Publication number: 20120066949
    Abstract: An elongated abuttable snap frame arrangement for biasably, removably, capturing a display graphic support and for display thereof, the arrangement comprising: an elongated base panel, an elongated cover that is flexibly attached to the base panel at its upper edge, and an elongated hinge member flexibly attached to the elongated base panel and the elongated cover, the cover able to rotate from a parallel closed position to a generally perpendicular open position without interfering with adjacent objects or other abutting snap frame arrangements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2010
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Applicant: Rose Display, Ltd
    Inventors: David E. Pitcher, Rebecca C. Suciu, Thomas P. Burrous, Paul P. Ellsworth, Alan Stenfors, Sidney Rose
  • Publication number: 20110131855
    Abstract: The present invention relates to apparatus and methods for displaying an item and more particularly, but not exclusively, to apparatus and methods for displaying vinyl music records on a wall. Apparatus (2) comprising first and second parts (6, 4 ) pivotably mounted to one another; wherein one part comprises a window through which an item to be displayed may be viewed, one part comprising a catch element (18) for limiting relative rotation of the two part, and one part comprises means for mounting the apparatus to a wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2006
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Applicant: ART VINYL LIMITED
    Inventor: Andrew N. Heeps
  • Publication number: 20100175289
    Abstract: An image support device has a support surface having a front face, a back surface, a bottom and a top. The support surface has secured thereto a visible light transmitting panel. The light transmitting panel preferably has a hinge towards the bottom of the support surface enabling a top of the light transmitting panel to be pulled away from the support surface in a non-destructive manner to create an opening behind the light transmitting panel. The opening behind the light transmitting panel is able to close and return to a closed position by elastic or spring tension to provide tension to an image placed behind the light transmitting panel. The top or the back of the support surface may have at least part of a wall connecting system attached thereto, or the opening may face away from a bottom of the device having a flat support base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2009
    Publication date: July 15, 2010
    Inventor: Helen Bair
  • Patent number: 7707759
    Abstract: A retaining device for improving the functionality of placard holders when the placard holder is subject to transient atmospheric conditions. The retaining device includes a member used in conjunction with a placard holder to more fully secure a placard with the placard holder when transient atmospheric conditions are encountered. The retaining device may be adapted to use with many designs of placard holders, including, but not limited to, U.S. Department of Transportation approved hazardous material information placard holders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Inventor: Dwight Roberts
  • Patent number: 7654026
    Abstract: An elongated extruded snap frame member for biasedly removably capturing a display graphic for support and display thereof. The frame member comprises an elongated extruded frame receiving panel, an elongated strip of securement material applied to the frame panel at the time of extrusion and an articulable housing comprised of a cover and a plurality of articulable legs co-extruded with one another and connected to one another by a flexible web of material. A further flexible web of material connects the cover to a portion of the articulable housing, the further web of flexible material providing an axis of rotation for the cover when the cover is biasedly rotated onto the display graphic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Assignee: Rose Displays, Ltd.
    Inventors: David E. Pitcher, Rebecca C. Suciu, Thomas P. Burrous, Alan L. Stenfors, Sidney Rose
  • Publication number: 20100005695
    Abstract: A spring structure of the invention is provided, including a main body having a top portion and two lateral portions extending from the top portion, a plurality of tabs protruding inward from the lateral portions to engage the main body to the device, and a spring extending from the top portion with a curved shape.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2008
    Publication date: January 14, 2010
    Applicant: HANNSPREE, INC.
    Inventors: Wen-Hung Huang, Yi-Cheng Chen
  • Patent number: 7406792
    Abstract: A picture frame assembly includes a main body having a receiving portion for receiving a picture. A cover with a transparent portion is attached to the main body to against and display the picture received in the main body. A first urging means is disposed between the main body and the cover to produce a first urging force to urge against the cover to firmly be attached to the main body, and as the cover is released from the main body to urge against the cover to depart from the main body in a first direction. A second urging means is disposed between the main body and the cover to produce a second urging force to urge against the cover to depart from said main body in a second direction when the cover is released from the main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Inventor: Jung-Shih Chang
  • Patent number: 6968641
    Abstract: A snap-together poster frame includes a plurality of edge supports, each comprising a plurality of segments having a slotted, channel-shaped cross-sectional profile to define a single opening having an unobstructed mouth for receiving an edge of a poster board. The segments include a top wall, a bottom wall and a sidewall joining the top and bottom walls. The edge support is resilient and the sidewall includes a generally L-shaped instep by which it is joined to the bottom wall having three flex points which allows the opening to adjust to the width of the posterboard inserted therein, thereby retaining the edge of the poster board via an interference fit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Inventor: Ronald M. Pollack
  • Patent number: 6792710
    Abstract: A back member of a picture frame includes a platform and a retainer mechanism. The picture frame has interior walls that form an interior cavity. The platform includes retaining walls, and the platform and the retaining walls are adapted to fit within the interior cavity of the picture frame. The retainer mechanism is disposed relative to one of the retaining walls so as to provide a force to releasably engage one of the retaining walls against one of the interior walls. The retainer mechanism provides a one-step, quick release engagement and disengagement of the back member and the picture frame. The retainer mechanism may include an elastic spring element or a gasket-like elastic material. In another embodiment, a system for framing a display piece is also disclosed. The system includes a frame, a back member engageable with the frame, and a retainer mechanism for maintaining engagement between the frame and the back member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Inventors: Forest P. Whitlow, Joyce T. Whitlow
  • Patent number: 6684545
    Abstract: Picture frame with framing bars connected to a base frame and with a device for mounting a picture which can be fitted within the base frame with lateral and rearward clearance to its framing bars on the base frame by means of retaining/spacer devices. The device for mounting a picture has a first profiled frame for holding a glass plate or transparent plastic plate and/or a passe-partout and/or a picture, a second profiled frame, whose external dimensions are smaller than the external dimensions of the first profiled frame, connected to and arranged beneath the first profiled frame, and a pressure plate pressing against the glass plate or transparent plastic plate and/or the passe-partout and/or the picture. The retaining/spacer devices can be inserted into the second profiled frame and connected to the framing bars of the base frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Assignee: Wohlleb Rahmen KG
    Inventor: Herbert Wohlleb
  • Patent number: 6634127
    Abstract: A picture frame with a frame (1, 2) has clamps (6, 7, 8, 9) for securing parts (3, 4, 5) inserted into the frame, such as a pane of glass, a picture, a rear wall, etc. The clamps (6, 7, 8, 9) have a bridge (14) and a spring clip (15). On the inside (12) of the frame (1, 2) a projection (17) is inserted into a recess (13). On the end of the bridge (14) there is another projection (16) which is inserted into a recess (11) on the back (10) of the frame (1, 2). On the end of the spring clip (15) there is a third projection (18) which is inserted into a recess (23) on the back (21) of the rear wall (5). This enables very adaptable and reliable mounting of the parts (3, 4, 5) in the frame (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Inventor: Gerhard Bauer
  • Patent number: 6601330
    Abstract: Picture frame member comprising a first support flange for an edge portion of a picture and a second flange which encloses a dihedral angle with the first flange to laterally hold the edge portion, the second flange being pivotally connected—adjacent its end turned away from the first flange—a press strip which is movable from an inoperative position outside the dihedral angle towards an operative position within the dihedral angle. The second flange is in the form of a rectangular box, where the outer upstanding wall is extended—in a direction turned away from the first flange—by a flange portion that has its free longitudinal edge connected to the press strip. The press strip is provided with a snap engagement that engages—in the operative press position of the press strip—a complementary snap engagement on the inner side of the flange portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Assignee: Weltec B.V.
    Inventor: Henricus Niklaas Josephus Dusink
  • Publication number: 20030046849
    Abstract: A carrier frame having an in-frame elastic constraint structure includes at least one elastic constraint structure, each of which is disposed in a predetermined position in an embracing space of the carrier frame. When a put-in module is put into the embracing space, the elastic constraint structure can be compressed and thereby deformed to produce a corresponding elastic force acting against the put-in module so as to restrict the motion of the put-in module within the embracing space. By providing the elastic constraint structure to the carrier frame, the put-in module can then be secured stably inside the embracing space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2002
    Publication date: March 13, 2003
    Applicant: AU Optronics Corp.
    Inventor: Hsin-Wu Lin
  • Patent number: 6519886
    Abstract: System and method for mounting front-loaded photographs, which are held in place in a recess with a smooth curvilinear sidewall by a flexible plastic retaining ring, which is precisely formed to frictionally engage the smooth sidewall. A variety of recess shapes and decorative retaining rings are useable to provide a variety of displays, either single or in an array. The preferred method of forming the recess is by routing, using a template set or computer-controlled router bit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2003
    Assignee: Wet Puppy Products, LLC
    Inventors: Thomas A. Johnson, Scott Larsen
  • Patent number: 6467210
    Abstract: A picture frame comprises a main body, at least one elastic member, and a press member. The main body is provided with a picture slot to accommodate a picture to be displayed. The picture slot is provided with two retaining grooves for retaining the elastic member. The press member is disposed in the picture slot such that the picture is pressed against by the press member, and that one side of the press member is urged by the elastic member, and that other side of the press member is inserted into the groove. When the press member is pushed in the direction toward the elastic member, the other side of the press member is forced out of the groove in which it is retained. The press member is thus removed from the picture slot of the main body so as to facilitate the replacing of the picture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Inventor: Jung-Shih Chang
  • Patent number: 6449888
    Abstract: A device for displaying signs, posters and the like for promotional and informational purposes. More particularly, adjustable display devices for holding and displaying changing signs for showing merchandise information in business establishments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: Rodier Advertising (1986) Limited
    Inventor: Graham Rodier Gibbs
  • Publication number: 20020073590
    Abstract: A frame for displaying media in more than one viewing positions and for storing additional media within the frame. The media is stored in stacks with the end piece of media viewable through an opening in the frame. Media can be moved from the end of one stack to the adjacent end of another by sliding movement within the frame. Both ends of the stacks are available, allowing the media to be cycled through the stacks, making each item of media available for viewing. Preferably, the media is carried in caddies, with an item of media visible from each face of the caddy. Also preferably, a removable spacer separate the faceplates and can be interchanged with spacers of different thickness to adjust the capacity of the frame. An optional gate between the stacks restricts movement to a single caddy at a time and an optional loading slot allows caddies to be inserted or removed without opening the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2000
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: Jackson L. Crisp
  • Publication number: 20020066218
    Abstract: A reclosable picture frame device for displaying and protecting a plurality of photographs in resistively secured and non-skid fashion. A frame includes a plurality of first, second, third and fourth elongate and interconnecting peripheral members, each of the peripheral members including, in cross section, a top surface, an outer edge surface, and an inner edge surface terminating in a foot portion. A planar and rigid backing possesses a selected thickness and dimension corresponding to that of the assembled and interconnecting peripheral members. The backing also includes a rearwardly facing surface and a forwardly facing and adhering surface. A plurality of angled corner braces interengage between the rigid backing and the peripheral members to maintain the integrity of the frame device. A flexible and planar shaped transparent overlay is arrayed over the adhering surface of the rigid backing and between the peripheral and interconnecting members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2000
    Publication date: June 6, 2002
    Inventor: Richard J. Darby
  • Publication number: 20020046477
    Abstract: A picture frame with a frame (1, 2) has clamps (6, 7, 8, 9) for securing parts (3, 4, 5) inserted into the frame, such as a pane of glass, a picture, a rear wall, etc.. The clamps (6, 7, 8, 9) have a bridge (14) and a spring clip (15). On the inside (12) of the frame (1, 2) a projection (17) is inserted into a recess (13). On the end of the bridge (14) there is another projection (16) which is inserted into a recess (11) on the back (10) of the frame (1, 2). On the end of the spring clip (15) there is a third projection (18) which is inserted into a recess (23) on the back (21) of the rear wall (5). This enables very adaptable and reliable mounting of the parts (3, 4, 5) in the frame (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2001
    Publication date: April 25, 2002
    Inventor: Gerhard Bauer
  • Patent number: 6349494
    Abstract: A display apparatus for a display has first member with four sides. The display apparatus includes a transparent restraining member mounted centrally within the four sides of the first member. A second member having four sides and a back is rotatably interconnected with the first member such that the first member can articulate between a first position and a second position. The display apparatus includes holding devices for holding the display as the first member moves from the first to the second position and back to the first position. At least one biasing device exerts an urging pressure for urging the display against the transparent restraining member when the first member is in the first position. The biasing device is preferably a compressible material with memory. The material lies adjacent to the display, distributing the urging pressure along a continuous portion of the display, substantially from one edge to an opposing edge, while the first member is in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2002
    Inventor: Donna J. Haggarty-Robbins
  • Publication number: 20020020096
    Abstract: Frame member for framing pictures, posters and similar image carriers, comprising a first flange, serving as a support flange for an edge portion of the image carrier and a second flange which encloses a dihedral angle with said first flange to laterally hold said edge portion, said second flange being pivotally connected—adjacent its end turned away from said first flange—a press strip which is movable from an inoperative position outside said dihedral angle towards an operative position within the dihedral angle. The second flange is in the form of a rectangular box section, of which the outer upstanding wall is extended—in a direction turned away from said first flange—by a flange portion, that has its free longitudinal edge connected to the press strip. The press strip is provided with a snap engagement means that engages—in the operative press position of the press strip—a complementary snap engaging means on the inner side of said flange portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2001
    Publication date: February 21, 2002
    Inventor: Henricus Niklaas Josephus Dusink
  • Patent number: 6305112
    Abstract: A frame for framing pictures has frame sections each having an external side wall connecting a channel for corner brackets on the back of the frame section with a visible front surface, which extends from the side wall towards a picture element in the frame. A screen wall extends from a holding lip down past a supporting lip to a bottom surface. A clear gap between the front surface of the frame section and the screen wall is of a smaller width than the distance from the holding lip to the bottom surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Inventor: C. C. Steffen Hansen
  • Patent number: 6186465
    Abstract: A book display apparatus comprises a backplate, a clear cover panel and a decorative frame. Two separate book tensioners are provided to bias the two halves of an open book against the clear cover panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Inventor: Stephen Clark
  • Patent number: 6026606
    Abstract: A display device for holding and displaying a document constituted by a thin sheet, the display device being composed of: a frame member enclosing a display area; at least one holding element for holding the document so that at least a portion of the document is visible in the display area; and support elements for supporting the frame member in an upright orientation on a horizontal support surface, wherein the at least one holding element is integral with the frame member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Assignee: Scanner Badges, Inc.
    Inventor: Jerry A. Ross
  • Patent number: 5983547
    Abstract: A four bar kinematic artwork retainer that attaches to a frame for securely holding artwork in a frame. The four bar kinematic artwork retainer device is installed for retaining artwork in a frame by positioning the pivot pin interconnecting two point links of the retracted artwork retainer in the inside corner of a frame and then locking the artwork retainer in position wherein the piercing points of the artwork retainer have engaged with the frame. The installed artwork retainer is in intimate contact with the back of the artwork and corner of the frame. The artwork retainer quickly, safely and easily attaches to the frame without modifying the frame or using tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Inventor: Charles E. Ellis
  • Patent number: 5926986
    Abstract: A non-sliding spring mechanism for picture and poster frames. A flat metal spring biasing member having a pair of opposed sawtooth or irregular edges is positioned between a rotating cover member and a stationary base member in each section of the frame device. The projections on the irregular edges of the spring members are preferably pointed and embed in the metal channels of the cover and base members and dig grooves therein, preventing the cover member and base member from sliding longitudinally relative to one another. Various configurations of toothed and pointed members can be utilized on the opposed irregular edges of the spring biasing member. Preferably, the irregular edges have one or more flat areas in order to prevent the spring members from embedding too deeply in the channels in the cover and base members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1999
    Assignee: Marketing Displays, Inc.
    Inventor: Ralph W. Dingle
  • Patent number: 5896689
    Abstract: Apparatus for posting bills that includes a frame containing a window region. A transparent outer film is mounted in the window and coacts with a back film to establish a wallet that is open along one edge for receiving a bill therein. The window has apparatus associated therewith for securing and tensioning the wallet inside the window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1999
    Assignee: J.P.N. Fixations S.A.
    Inventors: Pierre-Henry Bassouls, Eric Bihr
  • Patent number: 5815971
    Abstract: A poster display device for holding and displaying posters and advertising materials, particular in outdoor environments. A plurality of frame sections are positioned around the periphery of a backing member. The frame sections have rotating cover members which are biased by resilient members to be held in open and closed positions. A transparent protective sheet member is used to cover and protect the poster and advertising materials, and a sealing member is utilized to seal around the edges of the protective sheet member and prevent moisture and other environmental elements from coming into contact with the advertising materials and posters. The sealing members are positioned in slots, recesses, or channels in the frame sections and the force of the resilient members on the cover members holds the protective sheet materials tightly in place against the sealing members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Assignee: Marketing Displays, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter F. Rothe, David U. Hillstrom, Stefano Beretta
  • Patent number: 5799431
    Abstract: The retainer clip is adapted to be positioned between an inwardly extending flange at the back of a picture frame and backing material located within the frame behind a picture in the frame. The retainer clip includes a resilient body, structure on the body for engaging the inwardly extending flange at the rear edge of the picture frame and structure on the body for engaging the backing material. The structure for engaging the backing material includes at least one prong, detent or barb positioned to engage the backing material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1998
    Assignee: Terry Rozdolsky
    Inventor: Daniel E. Vilims
  • Patent number: 5692333
    Abstract: A multi-piece back loading framing system is disclosed. Each frame member has bevelled ends for forming mitered joints, a front face and side portion. The frame sections have a first hardware receiving channel directly below the front face and a second hardware receiving channel adjacent the side portion. The frame sections may be joined at mitered joints using an L-shaped screw corner key in the first channel or an L-shaped crimp corner key bracket in the second channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 2, 1997
    Assignee: Cardinal Aluminum
    Inventor: Larry W. McClave
  • Patent number: RE37688
    Abstract: The picture frame assembly includes a picture frame which has, in cross-section, a side wall, a turned in flange at the rear end of the side wall extending forwardly to a free end and a rearwardly extending flange at the front end of the side wall which provides a forward locator slot between the rearwardly extending flange and the side wall. The frame assembly also includes two or more retainer members. Each retainer member includes a generally U or V shaped retainer clip having an inner linear/planar leg portion having a flange extending laterally outwardly therefrom. A bight portion extends from the inner leg portion at an angle thereto, and an outer leg portion extends in a non-linear/non-planar manner to an outer end hook formation. The laterally extending flange of the clip member is received in the locator slot and the hook formation has a groove which is adapted to receive the free end of the short flange extending forwardly from the side wall toward the picture in the picture frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Inventor: Daniel E. Vilims