Easy Change Display Frame

Abstract

A display frame (1) has a front panel (2), a back or rear panel (3) and an artwork pocket (5) between the back and front panels. The front panel provides a border around an opening or window (7) to the artwork pocket (5). A slot (6) in an edge of the frame receives artwork into or allows artwork to be removed from the frame. A locking or cover panel (10) fits over or into the slot to close the artwork pocket (5). The frame can include an intermediate panel (4) between the front and back panels. The locking panel (10) can be retained in the slot by at least one locking mechanism such as locking tab (12) or (24). The locking panel (10) can be hooked into or onto the intermediate panel at one end of the slot (6) and then clipped into position by one or more locking tabs. One or more detent clips (50), can correspond with detent clip sockets or recesses (52) in the edges of the slot. Each detent clip (50) can have an arc shaped member in an end of the locking panel.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is generally directed to display frames and in particular to display frames allowing easy and quick change of displayed artwork such as certificates, photographs, drawings, signs, documents, posters and the like.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There are known many different types of display frames allowing the displayed artwork to be changed. Many of them permit the backboard and artwork to be removed out of the back of the frame. However these generally use at least six (but usually more) bending or rotating devices to secure the backboard into the frame. Alternatively some display frames allow the four edge members of the frame to be disconnected so that the backboard, artwork, mount and/or glazing can be disassembled and reassembled. Both of these types of display frame make the process of changing the artwork time consuming and require significant manual dexterity.

Other display frames allow the artwork to be changed by sliding the front and back of the frame apart, or by sliding the artwork into a pocket in the frame. Typically the assembly does not provide secure location of the artwork and/or has one of the four sides of the border of the artwork moveable relative to the other three sides which can leave visible shut lines when assembled, detracting from the presentation of the artwork.

It would therefore be desirable to provide a display frame allowing easy change of the artwork using a simple to operate mechanism located behind the front of the display frame.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a display frame including at least a back panel, a front panel and an artwork pocket formed between the back panel and the front panel, the front panel providing a border around an opening or window to the artwork pocket, wherein there is provided a slot disposed in an edge of the frame to permit artwork to be slid into and out of the artwork pocket, and there is provided a locking panel which covers of fits into the slot to close the artwork pocket.

The frame may comprise at least three layers, including a front layer including the front panel, an intermediate layer and a back layer including the back panel. The intermediate layer may include a locating panel providing three edges of the artwork pocket and the intermediate layer may further include the locking panel providing a fourth edge of the artwork pocket.

Additionally, or alternatively, the front panel and back panel may be directly or indirectly fixed to each other forming a main body of the display frame. For example there could be a back panel including the shape of the intermediate panel moulded in a single piece, with the front bonded, clipped of otherwise attached to the back panel. Or the front panel, back panel and intermediate panel features may all be moulded as a single piece. Or the front panel, back panel and intermediate panel may be bonded clipped or otherwise fixed together. Where provided the intermediate panel is positioned between the at least one front panel, and the at least one back panel.

Shapes and/or text characters may be cut into the border and/or extend into the opening or window of the front panel. This permits the front panel to be customised while the other components including the locking panel remain commonised.

The display frame may further include at least one additional front panel. This can provide border effects such as a mount and frame, especially where the at least one addition front panel is of at least one different colour.

Whether the display panel includes only a back panel and a front panel, or also has an intermediate panel and/or multiple front panels, some or each of the panels can have different colours. When assembled, the side of the display frame can then show colours to suit a particular theme such as a corporate or team colour scheme. If the front panel includes shapes text or characters cut into the border or extending into the opening or window portion, a different colour from the panel beneath can be revealed.

The display frame may include at least one locking means or retaining means between at least a first end of the locking panel and a first end of the slot in the main body. The or each locking or retaining means may include a locking tab slidably located in an edge of the slot or slidably located in the locking panel, the or each said locking tab being slidable between a first position in which the locking tab is engaged in only an edge of the slot or the locking panel and a second position in which the locking tab is engaged in both an edge of the slot and the locking panel. The locking tab may be spring-loaded using a spring or other resilient means such as a resiliently deformable portion of the slot or the locking panel. Alternatively the locking tab may be manually actuated, for example using friction to restrain free or uncontrolled motions of the locking tab. Alternatively, the or each locking means may include a detent protrusion (formed or cut) on an edge of the locking panel and a deflecting arm including a detent socket (formed or cut) in the edge of the slot, the deflecting arm being resiliently deformable to enable deflection of the detent protrusion as the locking panel is fitted into the slot, the deflection of the detent protrusion being reduced or eliminated when the detent means is aligned with the detent socket and the locking panel is inserted into an assembled position in the slot. Alternatively, the or each locking means may include a detent protrusion (formed or cut) on an edge of the locking panel and a deflecting arm including a detent socket formed or cut into an edge of the slot, the deflecting arm being resiliently deformable to enable deflection of the detent socket as the locking panel is fitted into the slot, the deflection of the deflecting arm being reduced or eliminated when the detent protrusion is aligned with the detent socket and the locking panel is inserted into an assembled position in the slot.

The at least one locking means or retaining means may be a locking or retaining means between the first end of the locking panel and the first end of the slot in the main body and there may be provided a locating means between a second end of the locking panel and a second end of the slot in the main body. The second edge of the locking panel is ideally substantially opposite the first edge of the locking panel. The locating means can for example be a feature to allow the second edge of the locking panel to be engaged or hooked into the second edge of the slot, then rotated and/or slid into an assembled position in the slot where the locking means can lock the first edge of the locking panel to the first edge of the slot. The locking and locating means may thereby together contribute to the location of the locking panel in the slot. Alternatively, the at least one locking means or retaining means may include a first locking or retaining means between the first end of the locking panel and the first end of the slot in the main body and a second locking or retaining means between a second end of the locking panel and a second end of the slot in the main body.

At least one access hole may be provided in the back panel for each locking means, each respective access hole allowing the respective locking means to be operated. Similarly, at least one access hole may be provided in the back panel for the locking panel, the or each respective access hole allowing the locking panel to be moved within the slot, especially ejected or moved outwards from the main body of the frame.

There may be provided at least one ejection means, the ejection means being resiliently deformable to enable deflection of the ejection means as the locking panel is fitted into the slot such that when the locking panel is inserted into an assembled position in the slot, the ejection means has a deflection providing a stored force to help eject the locking panel and when the locking panel is removed from the slot, the ejection means has substantially zero deflection.

The deflection of the or each deflecting arm and/or ejection means may be limited. This can be done by designing in a stop or limited space for deflection, particularly where a cut or void forming the deflecting feature is made. Limiting the magnitude of deflection can be advantageous to prevent for example yield or failure of the detent means and/or the ejection means.

The slot may be provided with smooth shaped edges (including the detent socket where present) to avoid interference with artwork being slid into or out of the artwork pocket.

The display frame may further include an at least partially transparent insert covering artwork in the artwork pocket. The transparent insert may be removable from the artwork pocket through the slot when the locking panel is removed (the locking panel may retain both the transparent insert and the artwork when fitted). Alternatively, the transparent insert may be fixed to or may form an integral part of the locking panel.

The transparent insert may include a ridge along a side opposite a side of the transparent insert adjacent, fixed to or integral with the locking panel, said ridge extending towards the back panel. The ridge can help ensure any artwork in the pocket is withdrawn with the insert. Alternatively, the transparent insert may be a tray or cartridge for receiving artwork.

The display frame may further include a chamfer on at least one outer edge of the slot.

The display frame may further include a secondary display panel to support secondary artwork, the secondary display panel being moveable between a concealed position where the secondary artwork is at least substantially concealed and a revealed position where the secondary artwork is at least substantially revealed. Ideally detent means are provided to help hold the secondary display panel in at least the concealed position. The secondary artwork can for example be text explaining the background of any artwork displayed in the artwork pocket.

The front panel may include a transparent portion inside the border. This may form a glazing over the artwork in addition to or in place of the transparent insert.

The back panel may include a window portion, the back panel forming a border panel around a reverse side of at least a portion of the artwork pocket. The window portion may include or be formed from a transparent material, or may be an opening, with the transparent insert preferably then including two transparent panels with a gap in between for the artwork, forming an artwork cartridge.

As discussed above, the display frame may include at least one additional front panel. Where multiple front panels are provided they can be layered to provide border effects such as a mount and frame around the artwork, or shapes or text in relief to make them stand out, particularly when different coloured panels are used.

Alternatively, shapes and/or text characters may be cut into the border and/or extend into the opening of the front panel.

The display frame may further include, of be provided with a base having a slot or recess to receive a lower end of at least the back panel and/or front panel of the display frame (to provide a free-standing display holder).

The back panel may include at least one hanging hole to receive a device for hanging the display frame.

Where the display frame includes an intermediate panel, the back panel may include at least one hanging hole and the intermediate panel may include at least one hole or recess in an area corresponding to the at least one hanging hole. Said hole or recess may receive an end of a device for hanging the display frame, such as a portion of a hook or head of a nail or screw.

An alternative form of the present invention provides a frame for displaying artwork, the frame including a front border, a backplate, a pocket to receive the artwork between the front border and the back plate, and a slot disposed in an edge of the frame, the slot being substantially aligned with the pocket such that the slot provides access to change the artwork in the pocket. There may be provided a locking plate received in the slot, the locking plate covering or closing the pocket to retain any artwork contained therein. The locking plate may be retained in the slot by a detent mechanism.

The frame may further include at least one hole in the back plate to enable operation of the detent mechanism. Alternatively or additionally, the frame may further include holes in the locking plate, and further including holes in the backplate partially aligned with the holes in the locking plate and extending towards an edge of the frame to enable the locking tab to be ejected from the slot.

The frame may further include a transparent insert covering artwork in the artwork pocket.

The transparent insert may be removable from the artwork pocket through the slot when the locking panel is removed. Alternatively, the transparent insert may be fixed to or form an integral part of the locking panel.

The transparent insert may be accessible through a hole in the front border to enable an external force to be applied to the transparent insert in the direction of the slot to thereby enable the locking plate to be ejected from the slot.

The detent mechanism may include at least one detent means, the or each detent means including a detent socket formed or cut into an edge of the slot and a deflecting arm including a detent protrusion formed or cut into the locking panel, the deflecting arm being resiliently deformable to enable deflection of the detent means as the locking panel is fitted into the slot, the deflection of the deflecting arm being reduced or eliminated when the detent protrusion is aligned with the detent socket and the locking panel is inserted into an assembled position in the slot. Alternatively, the detent mechanism may include at least one detent means, the or each detent means including a detent protrusion formed or cut into the locking panel and deflecting arm including a detent socket formed or cut into the edge of the slot, the deflecting arm being resiliently deformable to enable deflection of the detent socket as the locking panel is fitted into the slot, the deflection of the deflecting arm being reduced or eliminated when the detent protrusion is aligned with the detent socket and the locking panel is inserted into an assembled position in the slot. In either case, the deflection may be limited.

Edges of the slot including the detent socket, may be relatively smooth such that they tend not to protrude into a path followed by artwork being placed in or removed from the artwork pocket.

The detent mechanism may be provided by a detent means between a first end of the locking panel and a first end of the slot in the main body in which case there may be provided a locating means between a second end of the locking panel and a second end of the slot in the main body. Alternatively, the detent mechanism may include a first detent means between a first end of the locking panel and a first end of the slot in the main body and a second detent means between a second end of the locking panel and a second end of the slot in the main body.

The back panel may include a window portion, the back panel forming a border panel around a reverse side of the artwork.

The invention will be more readily understood from the following description of a number of specific constructions of frames or display frame incorporating one or more features of the invention, and as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Other arrangements or embodiments are possible, so the provision of the accompanying drawings and the following description thereof should not be taken to limit the scope of the above description of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a display frame.

FIG. 2 is a front view of an intermediate panel and a locking panel of the display frame.

FIG. 3 is a front view of a locking panel assembled in an intermediate panel of the display frame.

FIG. 4 is a front view of a back panel of the display frame.

FIG. 5 is a front view of an alternate locking panel and intermediate panel, the locking panel being assembled in the intermediate panel.

FIG. 6 is a front view of a back panel to suit the alternate locking panel and intermediate panel of FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is a front view of a modification to the alternate locking panel and intermediate panel of FIG. 5.

FIG. 8 is a front view of a further alternative locking panel and intermediate panel.

FIG. 9 is a front view of a transparent insert.

FIG. 10 is a front view of an alternate and/or additional front panel of the display frame.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a one-piece alternate back panel and intermediate panel.

FIG. 12 is a front view of a modification to the intermediate panel having two artwork pockets.

FIG. 13 is a front view of an intermediate panel and locking panel with modified locking, retaining or detent mechanism.

FIG. 14 is a front view of panels for a frame having a modified outer profile.

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring initially to FIG. 1, there is shown a display frame 1, having a front panel 2 and a back panel 3 spaced apart by an intermediate panel 4. The intermediate panel 4 has a hole 5 into which artwork can be inserted for display. Three edges of the hole can be used to locate artwork inserted into the hole or artwork pocket. The artwork can be certificates, photographs, drawings, signs, documents, posters and the like, or any other article that can fit in the artwork pocket formed by the intermediate panel between the front and back panels. The hole or artwork pocket in the intermediate panel is open on a fourth side forming a slot extending through a side of the frame, the slot providing access to insert and remove artwork.

The front panel 2 includes a hole or window portion 7 approximately aligned with the artwork pocket to permit viewing of the artwork pocket. As shown in FIG. 1 the hole forming the window portion 7 in the front panel is typically aligned with the hole forming the artwork pocket 5, but is preferably slightly smaller to provide a lip to retain inserted artwork. The window portion 7 can be any shape and can be positioned to reveal only a particular area of the artwork, or multiple windows can be provided to reveal different areas of the artwork. For example the artwork can be a print of a painting with a border and a box of information printed in the centre of the lower border, then a large window portion can be provided to allow the painting to be viewed and a smaller window portion can be provided to reveal part or all of the information box.

The front panel, intermediate panel and back panel can be of different colours, for example to match a corporate or team colour scheme.

FIG. 2 shows the intermediate panel 4 of the display frame. The hole forming the artwork pocket 5 together with the slot 6 can give the intermediate panel a U- or C-shape. A locking panel 10 is also shown in FIG. 2. The locking panel is provided to close or fill the slot to securely locate any inserted artwork or prevent artwork from sliding out of the slot once inserted. The locking panel 10 can be retained in the slot by at least one locking mechanism such as locking tab 12 or 24. The locking panel 10 can be hooked into or onto the intermediate panel at one end of the slot 6, then be clipped into position by a locking tab. Alternatively a locking tab can be used at both ends of the locking panel 10 as shown.

On the right hand side of the intermediate panel shown in FIG. 2, the locking tab 12 is a sliding tab located in a slot 14 in the intermediate panel 4. The tab 12 is spring loaded into the locking position by a small coil spring 16. A hole 18 is cut into the locking tab to enable it to be gripped and actuated. The locking panel has a recess 20 (in the edge at one end) to receive the end of the locking tab when in position in the slot. A lead-in feature such as a radius 22 or chamfer can optionally be provided between the locking panel and the locking tab and is shown on the locking panel in FIG. 2. The locking tab 12 acts as a detent means, being resiliently deflected as the locking panel is inserted into the slot, then engaging with the locking panel when it is in the correct (ie loaded) position in the slot. Alternatively the locking tab could be used as a friction mechanism which reduces parts through the elimination of the spring 16. However the friction operation would require the user or operator to slide the locking tab into the locking position engaged with the locking panel rather than automatically moving into place due to spring compression in the illustrated embodiment.

On the left hand side of the intermediate panel shown in FIG. 2, the locking tab 24 is cut or formed in the intermediate panel 4 and has an improved function over the locking tab 12 while using fewer parts. The tab 24 includes a deflecting arm 26 which is connected to, clamped in or formed in the intermediate panel 4. The profile 28 cut into (or formed in) the intermediate panel beside the locking tab 24 and deflecting arm 26 allows the locking tab to move to allow the locking panel to be inserted or moved, the resilience of the deflecting arm 26 providing a spring force loading the locking tab 24 back into the locking position. A hole 18 is cut into the locking tab to enable it to be gripped and actuated. Recess 20 and lead-in radius 22 features are again provided on the locking panel 10. Throughout this specification, like features may be given like reference numerals.

A stop 30 is also provided on the locking panel 10 to prevent the locking panel from being inserted too far through the slot 6 into the artwork pocket. The stop 30 could engage the body of the frame (such as the intermediate panel 4) or the locking tab 12. However, in FIG. 2 the stop 30 is only shown on the left hand side and is also used as part of an ejection mechanism. A resiliently deformable ejection arm 32 is shown cut into the intermediate panel 4, although other forms of spring can be used.

FIG. 3 shows the locking panel 10 inserted into the slot in the intermediate panel 4, with a locking tab 24 and ejection arm 32 being provided at each end of the locking panel. The ejection arms 32 are resiliently deflected by the stops 30 on the locking panel. When the locking tabs 24 are actuated outwards (apart from each other) to disengage from the locking panel, the ejection arms propel the locking panel outwards to at least partially eject it out of the slot. This can be convenient as two hands are required to actuate the locking tabs 24.

FIG. 4 shows a back panel to suit the intermediate panels and locking panels of FIGS. 2 and 3. Holes 38 are provided to allow access through the back panel to the locking tabs 12 or 24, preferably to holes 18 to allow the locking tabs to be gripped and actuated. These access holes 38 in the back panel can be shaped to guide the user in the operation of the locking tab mechanisms. For example the access holes 38 shown in FIG. 4 are in the shape of arrows pointing outwards to guide the user to slide the locking tabs away from each other to release the locking mechanism.

Hanging holes 40 are also shown cut through the back panel 3 in FIG. 4. These can be shaped with a notched edge as is well known. Clearance holes 42 or recesses can be provided in the intermediate panel and/or locking panel as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. The clearance holes 42 are aligned with and larger than the hanging holes 40 to accommodate the head, end or other part of a hanging device such as a nail, screw or hook.

FIG. 5 shows an alternative improved locking mechanism in the intermediate panel 4 and locking panel 10. The locking mechanism includes a detent clip 50 in each end of the locking panel. Corresponding detent clip sockets or recesses 52 are provided cut into the edges of the slot in the intermediate panel 4. Each detent clip 50 can be formed as an arc shaped member in an end of the locking panel as shown which does not increase the parts count (or can be a separate piece of resilient material which can be fixed to the locking panel). The size of the gap 54 can be used to permit sufficient deflection of the detent clip 50 to allow the locking panel to pass into or out of the slot in the intermediate panel, and limit the maximum deflection of the detent clip to prevent yield or failure. The profile 56 cut into or formed in the locking panel can be used provide some control of the deflection of the detent clip. For example, the detent clip 50 is required to deflect in a direction perpendicular to the edge of the slot in which the detent clip socket 52 is formed, but deflection in the direction of the edge of the slot can allow the detent clip 50 to chatter as the locking panel 10 is moved in the slot, so should be prevented or minimised.

Changing the locking mechanism from using the locking tabs 12 or 24 in FIGS. 2 and 3 to using one or more detent clips 50 in FIG. 5 can make the mechanism easier to operate and/or eliminate the ejection arms 32. The locking tabs can need to be individually and simultaneously actuated which takes two hands, which can require skill whilst also controlling the release of the locking panel 10. In contrast, the detent clips do not require individual actuation, being released when sufficient force is applied to the locking panel 10. The holes 48 are provided in the locking panel to enable the user to exert the required force to release the locking panel. Using this locking mechanism, the action of gripping and sliding out the locking panel 10 provides full control of the release of the locking panel.

FIG. 6 shows a back panel 3 for the intermediate panel and locking panel of FIG. 5. Holes 38 are provided in the back panel 3 in FIG. 6 to provide access to holes 48 in the locking panel 10 of FIG. 5. This allows the locking panel 10 to be actuated, ie although the locking panel can be inserted into the slot from outside the frame, the access holes 38 allow the user to access the gripping holes 48 in the locking panel 10 to slide the locking panel out of the slot.

Similarly, clearance holes 42 are provided in the intermediate panel and locking panel in FIG. 5, corresponding to hanging holes 40 in the back panel 3 in FIG. 6.

FIG. 7 shows a modification to the locking mechanism of FIG. 5. Although the shape of the slot in the intermediate panel in FIG. 5 does not include features which could interfere with artwork sliding past as it is inserted or removed, it also does not provide a stop to prevent the locking panel from being inserted too far (through the slot into the artwork pocket). In FIG. 7, a chamfer 58 is provided on the outer edge of the slot with a mating protrusion 60 extending from the outer corners of the locking panel to provide a stop limiting the insertion of the locking panel 10 through the slot. The protrusion 60 also prevents the locking panel being inserted incorrectly (with the outer edge towards the artwork) which is particularly significant if the gripping holes 48 are eccentric as shown. The chamfer 58 also provides a lead-in to guide the insertion of both artwork and the locking panel.

A further alternative locking mechanism is shown in FIG. 8, in which the detent clip function of FIGS. 5 and 7 has been moved from the locking panel 10 to the intermediate panel 4. Deflecting arm 26 is formed in the intermediate panel by the profile 28 cut into the panel 4. The detent socket or recess 52 is shown in the deflecting arms 26, with corresponding detent protrusion(s) 64 being formed on the locking panel 10. Two alternate deflecting arms are shown in FIG. 8 having similar function within the locking mechanism.

The chamfer 58 can be formed in the rigid outer edge of the intermediate panel as shown on the left hand side of FIG. 8. In this case, the deflecting arm 26 can include a radius or chamfer 66 on its upper edge to ensure the sides of the slot 6 do not have any steps or edges that hinder the loading of artwork into the artwork pocket 5. Alternatively, the chamfer 58 can be cut into the deflecting arm as shown on the right hand side of FIG. 8.

FIG. 9 shows a transparent insert 70 which can be inserted into the artwork pocket through the slot 6 of the display frame. It can be used to cover the artwork like the glazing provided by the glass in a conventional picture frame. The transparent insert 70 can include a ledge 72 on the edge inserted into the frame (ie opposite the edge of the transparent insert adjacent the locking panel when the display frame is assembled). The ledge 72 can be used to draw the artwork out of the pocket with the transparent insert. The transparent insert need not be totally transparent and could for example include a coloured border or be tinted with a solid colour or image such as a watermark overlay of a logo.

Although holes 48 in the locking panel and 38 in the back panel are shown in FIGS. 5 to 8, to use to grip and eject the locking panel 10, it is possible to delete these features and simply use frictional grip between say a thumb and the transparent insert to slide the transparent insert out of the frame, providing sufficient force to eject the locking panel. The transparent insert can also be used as a limit stop when the frame is assembled correctly so the provision of a separate limit stop feature such as the chamfer 58 and mating protrusion 60 shown in FIG. 7 is not always necessary.

The transparent insert can be joined to or formed as an integral part of the locking panel 10.

FIG. 10 shows shapes 80 formed into the edge of the window portion 7 of the front panel 2. An additional front panel 82 is also shown in FIG. 10 and can optionally have a different colour to the front panel 2 (and the intermediate and/or back panels). Text or shapes can be cut or formed in the front panel (and/or the additional front panel). The use of different coloured panels can allow such text or shapes to be highlighted. The front and/or additional front panels can therefore be customised while retaining the same locking panel and other components.

As another variation or alternative to the three panel layered construction (of front, intermediate and back panels), the intermediate panel can be integrated with one or both of the back and front panels. In FIG. 11 the back panel 90 includes the intermediate panel features from FIG. 5 or FIG. 7 including the artwork pocket 5, the slot 6 and the detent clip sockets or recesses 52, as well as the back panel features from FIG. 6 including the hanging hole 40 and access holes 38.

The display frame can also include a secondary display panel (not shown) to support secondary artwork, the secondary display panel being moveable between a concealed position where the secondary artwork is at least substantially concealed and a revealed position where the secondary artwork is at least substantially revealed. The secondary artwork can for example be text explaining the background of any artwork displayed in the artwork pocket. The frame could incorporate such a secondary display panel as disclosed in the Applicant's prior Australian Application number 2008207431, details of which are incorporated herein by reference. Alternatively, a secondary display panel could be incorporated into the display frame using similar locking mechanisms to those described above in relation to the locking panel. To this end the integrated back panel and intermediate panel 90 in FIG. 11 also shows a secondary artwork pocket 92. Detent clip sockets 52 are provided at two points long each side of the artwork pocket. The detent clip sockets nearest the main artwork pocket 5 allow the secondary display panel to be held in a concealed position. Stops or protrusions 94 on the outer ends of the sides of the secondary artwork pocket 92 can be used to prevent the secondary display panel from being totally withdrawn from the display frame when assembled. The detent clip sockets 52 nearest the stops 94 can be used to hold the secondary display panel in the revealed position if required, or they can be omitted.

The secondary display panel can include a handle or other protruding device to permit the secondary display panel to be moved from the concealed position to the revealed position. Alternatively, access holes can be provided in the back panel and/or the front panel and gripping holes or recesses can optionally be provided in or on the secondary display panel to enable it to be moved from the concealed position.

FIG. 12 shows an alternative arrangement for displaying two pieces of artwork in one frame. The intermediate panel 4 has two artwork pockets 5 divided by a strip of material or bar 100. A notch or cut-out 102 in the locking panel 10 can be used to receive and engage the end of the bar 100. The end of the bar 100 and/or the edges of the cut-out 102 can be chamfered to ensure easy alignment when the locking panel 10 is being inserted. The locking panel 10 closes both artwork pockets although two individual locking panels could be provided if required.

More artwork pockets can be provided by adding more horizontal bars 100. A vertical bar can be added to (for example) double the number of artwork pockets, with the added artwork pockets being open to the left side and closed by a second locking panel (or multiple locking panels, for example one for each pocket).

The intermediate panel 4 in FIG. 12 also has an irregular shape. The roughly triangular wings 104 are an example of variations to the external profile of one or more layers of the frame (for example the front panel, the intermediate panel where provided and/or the back panel) which can be made to suit or incorporate a particular theme or logo for example. The rectangular protrusion 106 extending from the lower edge of the frame is provided to permit the frame to be held upright or at a reclined angle, the protrusion 106 being inserted into a receiving slot in a base (not shown). The rectangular protrusion 106 can be provided in any or all of the layers of the frame. As shown the protrusion can be of a different width than the main part of the frame and its width and height can be used to determine the position of the base and help provide separation from the focal part of the border, logo or other outline or image formed by, on or in the front panel.

The intermediate panel shown in FIG. 13 includes a similar mounting protrusion 106 extending into the base (not shown). However the thickness of material in the top right corner of the frame is low to provide good strength for the deflecting arm arrangement shown in FIG. 8. So in FIG. 13, the position of the deflecting part of the detent mechanism is swapped from the intermediate panel 4 to the locking panel 10. The detent protrusion 64 is still provided on the locking panel 10 and the detent socket 52 is still provided in the intermediate panel to ensure that there are no parts intruding into the path of the artwork as it is slid into or out of the artwork pocket. Although limit stops are not shown, they can be incorporated in similar positions to those in FIGS. 7 and 8 for example if required, and can be beneficial both to protect the mechanism if the frame is assembled without a transparent insert and to provide a guide when inserting artwork of similar dimension to the artwork pocket.

As shown in previous Figures, any or all of the panels can have any external profile. FIG. 14 shows in dashed line 112 the outline of the front panel in the shape of an orang-utan hand. The window portion 7 in the front panel is also shown by dashed line. The outer edge of the locking panel 10 typically follows the outer profile of the front panel as shown (although this is not a necessity of the design). The intermediate panel 4 can have a different colour to the front panel or be transparent and can follow all or part of the outer profile 112 of the front panel. A tab or rectangular portion 114 is shown added to the left of the hand profile in FIG. 14 and this can be used to add labelling such as text or logos. The base mounting portion 106 is also shown although any mounting can be used. However if the base-mounting stand type of mounting or support is used, the back panel can have the same profile as the front panel including the window portion 7 to allow both sides of the artwork to be viewed, so different images may be used to display on either side.

In many various of the frame shown and described herein the back panel can include a window portion to permit the artwork to be lit from behind, or to allow the artwork to be viewed from the reverse side.

The transparent insert can include front and rear transparent panels, held in relatively fixed relation to each other by the ledge. This can form a cartridge into which the artwork is placed and can be particularly useful where the back panel includes a window portion into the artwork pocket.

The locking mechanisms of FIGS. 2 and 3 can use the locking tabs 12 or 24 designed or shaped to operate like the detent type mechanisms of FIGS. 5, 7, 8, 12, 13 and 14 using detent clips 50 or arms 58. If the locking tabs are shaped to allow detent type operation, the locking panel can be ejected single-handedly (as previously discussed using frictional grip between a thumb and the transparent insert to slide the transparent insert out of the frame, providing sufficient force to eject the locking panel) rather than requiring two hands to operate two positive lock type locking tabs. Alterations to the shape of the components and features are envisaged whilst maintaining the functionality essential for the operation of the invention. These are considered to fall within the scope of the invention described in this application, as are any combinations of the features disclosed in the above description.

Claims

1. A display frame including at least a back panel, a front panel and an artwork pocket formed between the back panel and the front panel, the front panel providing a border around an opening or window to the artwork pocket, wherein: there is provided a slot disposed in an edge of the frame to permit artwork to be slid into and out of the artwork pocket, andthere provided a locking panel which fits into the slot to close the artwork pocket.

2. A display frame according to claim 1 wherein the frame comprises at least three layers, including a front layer including the front panel, an intermediate layer and a back layer including the back panel, the intermediate layer including a location panel providing three edges of the artwork pocketthe intermediate layer further including the locking panel providing a fourth edge of the artwork pocket.

3. A display frame according to claim 1 wherein the front panel and back panel are directly or indirectly fixed to each other forming a main body of the display frame.

4. A display frame according to claim 3 wherein the display frame includes at least one locking means or retaining means between at least a first end of the locking panel and a first end of the slot in the main body.

5. A display frame according to claim 4 wherein the or each locking or retaining means includes a locking tab slidably located in an edge of the slot or slidably located in the locking panel, the or each said locking tab being slidable between a first position in which the locking tab is engaged in only an edge of the slot or the locking panel and a second position in which the locking tab is engaged in both an edge of the slot and the locking panel.

6. A display frame according to claim 4 wherein the or each locking means includes a detent protrusion on an edge of the locking panel and a deflecting arm including a detent socket in the edge of the slot, the deflecting arm being resiliently deformable to enable deflection of the detent protrusion as the locking panel is fitted into the slot, the deflection of the detent protrusion being reduced or eliminated when the detent means is aligned with the detent socket and the locking panel is inserted into an assembled position in the slot.

7. A display frame according to claim 4 wherein the or each locking means includes a detent protrusion on an edge of the locking panel and a deflecting arm including a detent socket in an edge of the slot, the deflecting arm being resiliently deformable to enable deflection of the detent socket as the locking panel is fitted into the slot, the deflection of the deflecting arm being reduced or eliminated when the detent protrusion is aligned with the detent socket and the locking panel is inserted into an assembled position in the slot.

8. A display frame according to claim 4 wherein the at least one locking means or retaining means is a locking or retaining means between the first end of the locking panel and the first end of the slot in the main body and wherein there is provided a locating means between a second end of the locking panel and a second end of the slot in the main body.

9. A display frame according to claim 4 wherein the at least one locking means or retaining means includes a first locking or retaining means between the first end of the locking panel and the first end of the slot in the main body and a second locking or retaining means between a second end of the locking panel and a second end of the slot in the main body.

10. A display frame according to claim 4 further including at least one access hole in the back panel for each locking means and/or the locking panel, the or each respective access hole allowing the respective locking means or the locking panel to be operated.

11. A display frame according to claim 4, further including at least one ejection means, the ejection means being resiliently deformable to enable deflection of the ejection means as the locking panel is fitted into the slot such that when the locking panel is inserted into an assembled position in the slot, the ejection means has a deflection and when the locking panel is removed from the slot, the ejection means has substantially zero deflection.

12. A display frame according to claim 6 wherein said deflection is limited.

13. A display frame as claimed in claim 4 wherein the slot has smooth shaped edges to avoid interference with artwork being slid into or out of the artwork pocket.

14. A display frame according to claim 1 further including a transparent insert covering artwork in the artwork pocket.

15. A display frame according to claim 14 wherein the transparent insert is removable from the artwork pocket through the slot when the locking panel is removed.

16. A display panel as claimed in claim 14 wherein the transparent insert is fixed to or forms an integral part of the locking panel.

17. A display frame according to claim 15 wherein the transparent insert includes a ridge along a side opposite the side of the transparent insert adjacent the locking panel, said ridge extending towards the back panel.

18. A display frame according to claim 15 wherein the transparent insert is a tray or cartridge for receiving artwork.

19. A display frame according to claim 1 further including a chamfer on at least one outer edge of the slot.

20. A display frame according to claim 1 further including a secondary display panel to support secondary artwork, the secondary display panel being moveable between a concealed position where the secondary artwork is at least substantially concealed and a revealed position where the secondary artwork is at least substantially revealed.

21. A display frame as claimed in claim 1 wherein the front panel includes a transparent portion inside the border.

22. A display frame as claimed in claim 1 wherein the back panel includes a window portion, the back panel forming a border panel around a reverse side of at least a portion of the artwork pocket.

23. A display frame according to claim 1 further including at least one additional front panel.

24. A display frame according to claim 1 wherein shapes and/or text characters are cut into the border and/or extend into the opening of the front panel.

25. A display frame according to claim 1 further including a base having a slot or recess to receive a lower end of at least the back panel and/or front panel of the display frame.

26. A frame for displaying artwork, the frame including: a front border,a backplate,a pocket to receive the artwork between the front border and the back plate,a slot disposed in an edge of the frame, the slot being substantially aligned with the pocket such that the slot provides access to the pocket;wherein there is provided a locking plate receivable in the slot, the locking plate closing the pocket to retain an artwork contained therein.

27. A frame as claimed in claim 26 wherein the locking plate is retained in the slot by a detent mechanism.

28. A frame as claimed in claim 27 further including at least one hole in the back plate to enable operation of the detent mechanism.

29. A frame as claimed in claim 26 further including holes in the locking plate, and further including holes in the backplate partially aligned with the holes in the locking plate and extending towards an edge of the frame to enable the locking plate to be ejected from the slot.

30. A display frame according to claim 27, further including a transparent insert covering artwork in the artwork pocket.

31. A display frame according to claim 30 wherein the transparent insert is movable from the artwork pocket through the slot when the locking panel is removed.

32. A display panel as claimed in claim 30 wherein the transparent insert is fixed to or forms an integral part of the locking panel.

33. A display panel as claimed in claim 30 wherein the transparent insert is accessible through a hole in the front border to enable an external force to be applied to the transparent insert in the direction of the slot to thereby enable the locking plate to be ejected from the slot.

34. A display frame as claimed in claim 27 wherein the detent mechanism includes at least one detent means, the or each detent means including a detent socket provided in an edge of the slot and a deflecting arm including a detent protrusion provided in the locking panel, the deflecting arm being resiliently deformable to enable deflection of the detent means as the locking panel is fitted into the slot, the deflection of the deflecting arm being reduced or eliminated when the detent protrusion is aligned with the detent socket and the locking panel is inserted into an assembled position in the slot.

35. A display frame as claimed in claim 27 in the detent mechanism includes at least one detent means, the or each detent means including a detent protrusion provided in the locking panel and a deflecting aim including a detent socket provided in the edge of the slot, the deflecting arm being resiliently deformable to enable deflection of the detent socket as the locking panel is fitted into the slot, the deflection of the deflecting arm being reduced or eliminated when the detent protrusion is aligned with the detent socket and the locking panel is inserted into an assembled position in the slot.

36. A display frame according to claim 34 wherein said deflection is limited.

37. A display frame as claimed in claim 27 wherein edges of the slot are relatively smooth and do not protrude into a path followed by artwork being placed in or removed from the artwork pocket.

38. A display frame according to claim 27 wherein the detent mechanism includes a detent means between a first end of the locking panel and a first end of the slot in the main body and wherein there is provided a locating means between a second end of the locking panel and a second end of the slot in the main body.

39. A display frame according to claim 27 wherein the decent mechanism includes a first detent means between a first end of the locking panel and a first end of the slot in the main body and a second detent means between a second end of the locking panel and a second end of the slot in the main body.

40. A display frame according to claim 27 wherein the back panel includes a window portion, the back panel forming a border panel around a reverse side of the artwork.