Patent Grant
11892024
The present disclosure relates to portable fabric display panels mountable on a collapsible frame for displaying graphical images, and more particularly to universal hub assemblies for attaching multiple graphic systems onto a single collapsible frame.
Many different display systems which are both portable and collapsible are known to those in the art. These systems typically include a scissors frame assembly having a plurality of elongate arms attached at their ends to hubs which enable the frame to transition between a collapsed, storage position and an expanded, display position. Such systems are commonly used for sales and/or trade show purposes, as they are lightweight and can readily be collapsed into a fraction of its display position size for ease in transportation.
The respective edges of adjacent box frames 102 can share pairs of crossed elongate arms 104 along a common border. Accordingly, as depicted, a hub 106A located on a corner of the perimeter of the first portable display system 100 is operably coupled to two elongate arms 104A, 104C and one cross member 108A. A hub 106B located along an edge of the perimeter of the first portable display system 100 is operably coupled to three elongate arms 104B, 104D, and 104E, and one cross member 108B. A hub 106E located interior to the perimeter of the first portable display system 100 is operably coupled to four elongate arms 104E, 104F, 104G, and 104H, and one cross member 108C. Other configurations of the first portable display system 100, including configurations other than an array of nine square box frames 102 are also possible.
As depicted in
As depicted in
Presently, the hubs 106 of the first portable display system 100 are not compatible with the frame 118 of the second portable hub display system 150; that is, the frame 118 cannot be mounted to the hubs 106 of the first portable display system 100. Likewise, the hubs 117 of the second portable display system 150 do not include knobs or posts 112 for connection to the buttonholes 116 of the stretchable fabric 114 of the first portable display system 100. Moreover, the hubs 106, 117 are not interchangeable between the first and second portable display systems 100, 150. Therefore, users who wish to utilize a multiple panel display system must purchase one display system 100, while users who wish to display a single large panel must purchase a second, separate display system 150.
Accordingly, what is needed in the industry is a single portable display system capable of displaying both a plurality of stretchable fabric panels, as well as a large framed panel.
Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a universal portable display system capable of interchangeably displaying both a plurality of stretchable fabric panels, as well as one or more sections of a sub-frame for a displaying a larger graphic panel. Moreover, embodiments of the present disclosure provide an adapter kit to enable collapsible frames of the prior art to support multiple display graphic systems including a first graphics system including a plurality of stretchable fabric panels, and a second graphic system including a sub-frame, such as a silicon edge frame comprising a plurality of channel bars, for mounting a single larger fabric panel or other graphic panel to the frame assembly. Other embodiments are directed to portable display systems which incorporate universal hubs within a matrix of collapsible elongate support arms at each connection point of the arms, the hubs allowing the system to be shiftable between a first graphics system including a plurality of stretchable fabric panels, and a second graphic system including a sub-frame, such as a silicon edge frame comprising a plurality of channel bars, for mounting a single larger fabric panel or other graphic panel to the frame assembly.
One embodiment of the present disclosure provides a universal hub adapter for a portable display system configured to mount to a convex outer surface of a display hub, the universal hub adapter configured to interchangeably adapt the display hub for the mounting, on a single frame assembly, of a first graphics system including a plurality of stretched fabric panels and a second graphics system including a sub-frame assembly for mounting a larger fabric panel. The universal hub adapter generally includes a faceplate and a threaded post, the faceplate having a substantially planar outer surface and a concave inner surface configured to mate with the convex outer surface of the display hub. The threaded post generally includes a threaded portion, a securement plate, a button shaft, and a button head. The threaded portion is configured to pass through an aperture of the faceplate and couple to the display hub, such that the securement plate abuts up against the faceplate, thereby securing the faceplate to the display hub. The button shaft and button head are configured to operably couple to one of a stretched fabric panel or a sub-frame assembly.
Another embodiment of the present disclosure provides a universal hub for a portable display frame, the portable display frame including a plurality of elongate arms pivotably coupled to the universal hub assembly by respective plurality of pivot fasteners. The universal hub assembly is configured to enable the mounting, on a single frame assembly, of a first graphics system including a plurality of stretched fabric panels and a second graphics system including a sub-frame assembly for mounting a larger fabric panel. The universal hub assembly generally includes a substantially rectangular prism shaped hub component, a rigid threaded insert, and a threaded post. The substantially rectangular prism shaped hub component has an outer surface, an inner surface, and four side surfaces. The inner surface and the four side surfaces define a plurality of grooves shaped and sized to accommodate the ends of a plurality of elongate arms of the portable display frame. Each of the respective side surfaces further define an aperture shaped and sized to accommodate one of a respective plurality of pivot fasteners for an elongate arm fitting within an adjacent groove, so as to pivotably couple each elongate arm to the hub component. The hub component further defines a through bore passing from the outer surface to the inner surface. The rigid threaded insert is housed within the through bore. The threaded post includes a threaded portion, a securement plate, a button shaft, and a button head. The threaded portion is configured to threadedly couple to the threaded insert, such that the securement plate abuts up against the outer surface of the hub component. The button shaft and button head are configured to operably couple to one of a stretched fabric panel or a sub-frame assembly.
Another embodiment of the present disclosure provides a universal hub assembly for a portable display frame, the portable display frame including a plurality of elongate arms pivotably coupled to the universal hub assembly by plurality of pivot fasteners. The universal hub assembly is configured to enable the mounting, on a single frame assembly, of a first graphics system including a plurality of stretched fabric panels and a second graphics system including a sub-frame assembly for mounting a larger fabric panel. The universal hub assembly generally includes a six sided hub component, a rigid threaded insert, a faceplate, and a threaded post. The six sided hub component has an outer surface, an inner surface, and four side surfaces, wherein a keyed boss extends from the outer surface. The inner surface and four side surfaces define a plurality of grooves shaped and sized to accommodate ends of a plurality of elongate arms of the portable display frame. Each of the respective side surfaces further define an aperture shaped and sized to accommodate one of a respective plurality of pivot fasteners for an elongate arm fitting within an adjacent groove, so as to pivotably couple each elongate arm to the hub component. The hub component further defines a through bore passing from the keyed boss to the inner surface. The rigid threaded insert is housed within the through bore. The faceplate can include a substantially planar outer surface and an inner surface shaped and sized to mate with the keyed boss of the hub component. The threaded post includes a threaded portion, a securement plate, a button shaft, and a button head. The threaded portion is configured to pass through an aperture of the faceplate and threadedly couple to the threaded insert, such that the securement plate abuts up against the faceplate, thereby securing the faceplate to the hub component. The button shaft and button head are configured to operably couple to one of a stretched fabric panel or a frame assembly.
In embodiments, the universal hub adaptors and universal hubs described herein can be used, for example, to shift a portable pop up frame assembly between a multi-panel graphic display assembly in which a plurality of graphics panels are coupled via the button heads to the frame assembly, and a single panel graphic display assembly in which a plurality of channel bars are coupleable to the universal hubs by inserting the button head into an aperture or channel formed in each channel bar to form a sub-frame for mounting the larger fabric panel thereto.
The universal hubs and adaptors used in pop-up frame assemblies allow not only conversion between single panel and multi-panel graphic frame assemblies, but also allow for modularity of the system. For example, frame assemblies using the universal hubs described herein can be coupled together in a variety of configurations, including closets, storage spaces, and the like. The modularity and ability to convert the frame assemblies between different graphic systems allows for less inventory from both a seller's perspective and buyer's perspective, and can give a user a variety of configurations and uses.
The above summary is not intended to describe each illustrated embodiment or every implementation of the subject matter hereof. The figures and the detailed description that follow more particularly exemplify various embodiments.
Subject matter hereof may be more completely understood in consideration of the following detailed description of various embodiments in connection with the accompanying figures, in which:
While various embodiments are amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, specifics thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the intention is not to limit the claimed inventions to the particular embodiments described. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the subject matter as defined by the claims.
A. Adapter Kits for Hubs of the Prior Art
Referring to
In one embodiment, the outer surface 204 can be substantially planar. The inner surface 206 can be concave, so as to mate with a convex outer surface 110 of a display hub 106 of a portable display system of the prior art (as depicted in
Embodiments of the faceplate 202 can be constructed of steel, stainless steel, aluminum, metal alloys, resin and/or plastic, such as polypropylene, ABS, or other plastics. The faceplate 202 can include an anodized coating and can be configured in a variety of colors, including black, white, gray, neutrals, and primary colors. In one embodiment, the size of the faceplate 202 is dictated by its connection to elongate arms 106 and crossmember 108, and/or the function that the faceplate 202 is configured to perform. For example, in one embodiment the faceplate 202 can have an outer dimension measuring approximately 1.8 inches; in other embodiments the outer dimension can measure between approximately 1.3 and 2.3 inches. In one embodiment, a thickness of the faceplate can measure approximately 0.595 inches; in other embodiments, the thickness can measure between approximately 0.345 and 0.845 inches. Embodiments of the faceplate 202 can be configured to function as part of a hook and loop fastener attachment surface, a magnetic attachment surface, a surface for connecting silicon edge graphics, a surface for universal frame attachment, or a surface for connection to a threaded post and/or button head.
Referring to
In one embodiment, the threaded portion 216 of the threaded post 214 is dimensioned as ¼-20, although other dimensions of the threaded portion 216 are also contemplated. In one embodiment, the threaded post 216 can measure approximately 0.42 inches in length. In another embodiment, the threaded portion 216 can be replaced by another mechanism configured to fasten or secure the threaded post 214 to the faceplate 202.
In one embodiment, the securement plate 218 can have a circular outer diameter measuring approximately 0.36 inches, and can have a depth measuring approximately 0.07 inches. The button shaft 220 can measure approximately 0.151 inches in length, and can have an outer diameter measuring approximately 0.394 inches.
The button head 222 can have an outer dimension measuring approximately 0.36 inches, and can have a depth measuring approximately 0.079 inches. The top surface 223 of the button head 222 can be substantially flat, or the top surface 223 can be curved or rounded in shape. In some embodiments, the button head 222 can include one or more flat surfaces 225 on an outer diameter of the button head 222 configured to improve grip when installing and removing the threaded post 214 from the faceplate 202.
In some embodiments, the securement plate 218 and/or button head 222 can be circular in shape. In other embodiments, the securement plate 218 and/or button head 222 can be configured as a triangle, square, hexagon, octagon, rhombus, trapezoid, polygon, oval, or ellipse. In some embodiments, the shape of the securement plate 218 and/or button head 222 can be configured to accommodate at least one of a specific style of graphic system. For example, in some embodiments, the threaded post 214 can be configured to operably coupled to fabric 114 or a silicon edge graphics frame 118 that is either curved or straight. In some embodiments, the threaded post 214 can be used with magnets and hanger bars to accept graphic systems.
In one embodiment, the threaded portion 216 and the securement plate 218 can be formed as a first portion, and the button shaft 220 and button head 222 can be formed as a second portion, such that the first portion can be operably coupled to the second portion. For example, a portion of the button shaft 222 can be fastened to the securement plate 228.
Referring to
Referring to
In one embodiment, the outer surface 304 can be substantially planar. The inner surface 306 can be concave, so as to mate with a convex outer surface 110 of a display hub 106 of a portable display system of the prior art. A through bore 310 can be defined within the faceplate 302, so as to pass from the outer surface 304 to the inner surface 306. In some embodiments, the faceplate 302 can include a web structure 312 to aid in providing structural integrity to the faceplate 302. In some embodiments, the web structure 312 can define a portion of the concave shape of the inner surface 306.
Embodiments of the faceplate 302 can be constructed of steel, stainless steel, aluminum, metal alloys, resin and/or plastic, such as polypropylene, ABS, or other plastics. The faceplate 302 can include an anodized coating and can be configured in a variety of colors, including black, white, gray, neutrals, and primary colors. In one embodiment, the size of the faceplate 302 is dictated by its connection to elongate arms 106 and crossmember 108, and/or the function that the faceplate 302 is configured to perform. Embodiments of the faceplate 302 can be configured to function as part of a hook and loop fastener attachment surface, and magnetic attachment surface, a surface for connecting silicon edge graphics, a surface for universal frame attachment, or a surface for connection to a threaded post and/or button head.
Referring to
B. Universal/Replacement Hubs
Referring to
In one embodiment, the inner surface 406 and the side surfaces 408A-408D can define a plurality of grooves 410A-410D. The grooves 410A-410D can be shaped and sized to accommodate the ends of the plurality of elongate arms 104 of the portable display frame 100. In one embodiment, each of the respective side surfaces 408A-408D can further define an aperture 412A-412D shaped and sized to accommodate one of a plurality of pivot fasteners for the respective elongate arm 104 fitting within an adjacent groove 410A-410D. In particular, aperture 412A can be configured to receive a pivot fastener for an elongate arm 104 fitting within groove 410A. Likewise, apertures 412B-412D can be configured to receive respective pivot fasteners for elongate arms 104 fitting within grooves 410B-410D. In this manner, up to four elongate arms 104 can be pivotably coupled to the universal hub assembly 400.
In one embodiment, the hub component 402 further defines a through bore 414 passing from the outer surface 404 to the inner surface 406. The threaded insert 424 can be housed within the through bore 414. In some embodiments, the threaded insert 424 can be constructed of a material having a higher relative rigidity than the material from which the hub component 402 is constructed. For example, in one embodiment, the threaded insert can be constructed of metal. In one embodiment, the threaded insert 424 can be ultrasonically welded in position relative to the hub component 402. In other embodiments, an adhesive or manner of securing the threaded insert 424 relative to the hub component 404 can be employed.
A threaded post 214 (as depicted in
Referring to
In one embodiment, the inner surface 506 and side surfaces 508A-508D can define a plurality of grooves 510A-510D. The grooves 510A-510D can be shaped and sized to accommodate the ends of a plurality of elongate arms 104 of the portable display frame 100. In one embodiment, each of the respected side surfaces 508A-508D can further define an aperture 512A-512D shaped and sized to accommodate one of a plurality of pivot fasteners for a respective elongate arm 104 fitting within an adjacent groove 510A-510D. In particular, aperture 512 a can be configured to receive a pivot fastener for an elongate arm 104 fitting within groove 510A. Likewise, apertures 512B-512D can be configured to receive the respective pivot fasteners for the elongate arms 104 fitting within grooves 410B-410D. In this manner, up to four elongate arms 104 can be pivotably coupled to the hub component 502.
In one embodiment, a keyed boss 526 can extend from the outer surface 504. Although the keyed boss 526 is depicted as a square, the keyed boss 526 can take any number of shapes, including a polygon, circle, oval, or irregular pattern. In one embodiment, the hub component 502 can further define a through bore 514 passing from the keyed boss 526 to the inner surface 506. A threaded insert 524 can be housed within the through bore 514. In some embodiments, the threaded insert 524 can be constructed of a material having a higher relative rigidity than the material from which the hub component 502 is constructed. For example, in one embodiment, the threaded insert 524 can be constructed of metal. In one embodiment, the threaded insert 524 can be ultrasonically welded in position relative to the hub component 502. In other embodiments, an adhesive or other manner of securing the threaded insert 524 relative to the hub component 504 can be employed.
Referring to
In one embodiment, the outer surface 534 can be substantially planar. The inner surface 536 of the faceplate 530 can be shaped and sized to mate with the keyed boss 526 of the hub component 502. In particular, the inner surface 536 can be configured to enable at least a portion of the keyed boss 526 to be inserted therein, in a manner that inhibits rotation of the faceplate 530 relative to the hub component 502. A through bore 540 can be defined within the faceplate 530, so as to pass from the outer surface 534 to the inner surface 536. In some embodiments, the faceplate 530 can include a web structure 542 to aid in providing structural integrity to the faceplate 530. In some embodiments, the web structure 542 can define at least a portion of the inner surface 536 shaped and sized to mate with the keyed boss 526.
Referring to
C. Universal Frame Assemblies
The respective edges of adjacent box frames 1002 can share pairs of crossed elongate arms 1004 along a common border. Accordingly, as depicted, a hub 1006A located on a corner of the perimeter of the frame assembly 1001 is operably coupled to two elongate arms 1004A, 1004C. A hub 1006B located along an edge of the perimeter of the frame assembly 1001 is operably coupled to three elongate arms 1004B, 1004D, and 1004E, and one cross member 1008A. A hub 1006E located interior to the perimeter of the frame assembly 1001 is operably coupled to four elongate arms 1004E, 1004F, 1004G, and 1004H, and one cross member 1008B. One or more j-hook crossbars 1008C can extend across the left and right sides of the frame assembly 1001 to secure frame assembly 1001 in the display configuration.
Other configurations of the frame assembly 1001, including configurations other than an array of nine square box frames 1002 referred to as a 3×3 frame, are also possible. For example, other configurations can include 2×2, 1×3, 2×3, and 4×3.
In an embodiment, to shift the frame assembly 1001 from the portable configuration shown in
As depicted in
As depicted in
Referring now to
Now referring to
Once the frame assembly 1001 has been assembled, it can be used to display a single large graphic by using the channel bar sub frame assembly 1022 as described in the Background section. Alternatively, as depicted in
The frame assemblies 1001 can be used as stand alone structures, or can be coupled together to form various structures, such as, for example, a closet or room. Referring to
Referring to
If it is desired to install a door, a front internal edge of one of side frame assemblies 2001B or C does not include a vertical channel bar. A door lintel 2004, such as an aluminum door lintel, is coupled to the front internal top edge of each frame assembly 2001B,C using mechanical fasteners such as thumb screws. Alternatively, a top edge of channel bars 2006 can include structure for receiving the lintel and/or fasteners.
Now referring to
Referring to
Referring now to
Now referring to
Now referring to
The universal hubs and adaptors used in pop-up frame assemblies allow not only conversion between single panel and multi-panel graphic frame assemblies, but also allow for modularity of the system. For example, frame assemblies using the universal hubs described herein can be coupled together in a variety of configurations, including closets, storage spaces, and the like.
The modularity and ability to convert the frame assemblies between different graphic systems allows for less inventory from both a seller's perspective and buyer's perspective, and can give a user a variety of configurations and uses.
Various embodiments of systems, devices, and methods have been described herein. These embodiments are given only by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed inventions. It should be appreciated, moreover, that the various features of the embodiments that have been described may be combined in various ways to produce numerous additional embodiments. Moreover, while various materials, dimensions, shapes, configurations and locations, etc. have been described for use with disclosed embodiments, others besides those disclosed may be utilized without exceeding the scope of the claimed inventions.
Persons of ordinary skill in the relevant arts will recognize that the subject matter hereof may comprise fewer features than illustrated in any individual embodiment described above. The embodiments described herein are not meant to be an exhaustive presentation of the ways in which the various features of the subject matter hereof may be combined. Accordingly, the embodiments are not mutually exclusive combinations of features; rather, the various embodiments can comprise a combination of different individual features selected from different individual embodiments, as understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art. Moreover, elements described with respect to one embodiment can be implemented in other embodiments even when not described in such embodiments unless otherwise noted.
Although a dependent claim may refer in the claims to a specific combination with one or more other claims, other embodiments can also include a combination of the dependent claim with the subject matter of each other dependent claim or a combination of one or more features with other dependent or independent claims. Such combinations are proposed herein unless it is stated that a specific combination is not intended.
Any incorporation by reference of documents above is limited such that no subject matter is incorporated that is contrary to the explicit disclosure herein. Any incorporation by reference of documents above is further limited such that no claims included in the documents are incorporated by reference herein. Any incorporation by reference of documents above is yet further limited such that any definitions provided in the documents are not incorporated by reference herein unless expressly included herein.
For purposes of interpreting the claims, it is expressly intended that the provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112(f) are not to be invoked unless the specific terms “means for” or “step for” are recited in a claim.
The present application is a divisional application of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/050,916 filed Jul. 31, 2018, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/539,119 filed Jul. 31, 2017, which is hereby incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.
| Number | Name | Date | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4888895 | Kemeny | Dec 1989 | A |
| 6758354 | Carletti | Jul 2004 | B2 |
| 6996946 | Cazzolaro | Feb 2006 | B1 |
| 7481235 | Prusmack | Jan 2009 | B2 |
| 9214104 | Matthews | Dec 2015 | B1 |
| 20060123734 | Cazzolaro | Jun 2006 | A1 |
| 20110250034 | Swanson | Oct 2011 | A1 |
| 20170330493 | Zhang | Nov 2017 | A1 |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20220243756 A1 | Aug 2022 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62539119 | Jul 2017 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 16050916 | Jul 2018 | US |
| Child | 17677502 | US |
