This invention relates to a modular wall panel. In particular, the invention relates to a wall panel configured to hold a variety of devices including electronic devices, and more particular devices used in display setting such as retail store environments.
The display of items, in particular in retail environments, in an efficient and clear manner is important to both customers and businesses. Typically, merchandise or display items are arranged on racks, gondolas, walls, or other surfaces. The items need to be easily removed, replaced, as the arrangement of the items and the displays change frequently. This can include changes for the placement of advertising, decorative backings, and even adjustments seasonally or for holidays, not to mention the merchandise constantly changes too. A great deal of time is often dedicated to maintaining the display of such items.
In the case of electronics, a further complication arises for displays that feature actual live use of such devices. This can include TVs, computer monitors, or other electronic devices. It is preferable to have the devices operating, which requires providing for power, connecting a plethora of cords, and the routing thereof. Prior art standard displays are not designed for such uses. As a result chords are haphazardly arranged, the devices are difficult to attach and secure, replacing the items takes a great deal of time and effort, and in many cases the devices are displayed but not connected to power.
Thus, a need exists for an improved system for handling such displays.
In the Figures is shown a modular wall panel and system for mounting various devices. As shown in
The frame 14 includes removable side panels 20 on each side that secure to side members 28, which form a vertical support for the frame 14. The frame 14 also includes braces 24 that connect to the side members 20. There are three braces 24 (top, bottom, and center). The braces 24 include holes 16, as do the side panels 20 and side members 28.
The side panels 20 include teeth 22, which are the point of attachment or the panels 10. Preferably, the panels 10 are configured to attach to retail gondola shelving of the kind shown in
The frame 14 includes a pivot connector 32 that secures to the top of each side member 28. The pivot connector 32 is comprised of a bearing 36, and a pin plate 38 that fits into the bearing 36. The slats 12 have a pin plate 38 that secures to the pivot connector 32. This allows the slats 12 to pivot about the top of the frame 14. A kickstand 40 is attached to the side members 28 with a bolt or screw, and the other end of the kickstand attaches to the slats 12. This allows the slats 12 to be raised and held in place for access to the back of the slats 12 without removing the panels 12.
The panels 12 are uniquely suited for use in a display environment, and can connect items in a highly versatile manner, including electronic devices, shelves, brackets, and advertising and promotional material. The holes 16 in the various members allow for wiring, power chords, and the like to pass from the front to back of the panels, and from panel to panel (either from side to side or from top to bottom). As the various frame 14 members also have holes. Also, the tent shaped holes 16 serve, not only as pass-through, but also to allow for attachment of larger brackets associated with TV or audio visual equipment, or display items as shown in the Figures (see
The kickstand 40 allows for raising all the slats, for access, without removing any attachments, as well as providing easy access to the back and front of the panels 10. Previously, the entire display needed to be removed, disassembled, or multiple people had to be stationed on either side of the display to make changes.
The panels preferably are made of a magnetic material to that, magnetic materials can be attached such as graphics, advertising, and promotional material. Alternatively, in some cases, a backing material can be attached to cover the unused holes 16. Also dimensional panels can be attached to slats for building displays (see
Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although methods and materials similar to or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, suitable methods, and materials are described below. All publications, patent applications, patents, and other references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety to the extent allowed by applicable law and regulations. In case of conflict, the present specification, including definitions, will control.
The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential attributes thereof, and it is therefore desired that the present embodiment be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, reference being made to the appended claims rather than to the foregoing description to indicate the scope of the invention. Those of ordinary skill in the art that have the disclosure before them will be able to make modifications and variations therein without departing from the scope of the invention.
The present application claims the benefit of, and incorporates by reference, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/209,649 filed Jun. 11, 2021.
Number | Date | Country | |
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63209649 | Jun 2021 | US |