Abstract
An illumination device and shade for displaying a selected image in an illuminated display using fully assembled, partly assembled or ready to assemble components is provided for. The device allows for multiple mounting configurations and mounting options and provides for an easy to exchange image sheet.
Claims
1. A shade for use with an illuminated display unit comprising: a fine art media sheet imprinted with an image, the media sheet having a top edge, a bottom edge, a first side edge and a second side edge; a first frame with a channel shaped engagement surface for receiving and retaining the top edge of the fine art media sheet; a second frame with a channel shaped engagement surface for receiving and retaining the bottom edge of the fine art media sheet; a first fastener and a second fastener distinct from the fine art media sheet and the first and second frames for securing the fine art media sheet to the first frame and the second frame, respectively, wherein the first and second fasteners are releaseable.
2. The shade of claim 1 wherein the fine art media sheet is formed into a generally cylindrical shape and the first side edge overlaps the second side edge and is retained in place by adhesive.
3. The shade of claim 2 wherein the fine art media sheet is sufficiently rigid to retain the generally cylindrical shape and support the first and second frames without any additional support.
4. The shade of claim 1 wherein the fine art media sheet is a sheet of fine art paper.
5. The shade of claim 4 wherein the fine art paper is coated for acceptance of ink jet printing.
6. The shade of claim 1 wherein the image imprinted on the fine art media sheet is an ink jet image.
7. The shade of claim 5 wherein the image imprinted on the fine art paper is an ink jet image.
8. The shade of claim 1 wherein the channel shaped engagement surfaces of the first and second frames are u-shaped slots.
9. The shade of claim 1 wherein the first fastener is a resilient clip that interacts with the engagement surface of the first frame and the second fastener is a resilient clip that interacts with the engagement surface of the second frame.
10. The shade of claim 9 wherein the first frame and the second frame comprise slots for inserting the resilient clips.
11. The shade of claim 10, wherein the resilient clips comprise wing members and a projection, wherein the wing members when inserted mates with the first and second frames via the slots and the projection applies pressure on the fine art media sheet in place against the engagement surfaces of the first and second frames.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
(1) The present invention can best be understood in connection with the accompanying drawings. It is noted that the invention is not limited to the precise embodiments shown in drawings, in which:
(2) FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an assembled IDU in use on a table top.
(3) FIG. 1B is a perspective view of an assembled IDU with a pedestal using a second support frame at the base in use on a table top.
(4) FIG. 1C is a perspective view of an assembled IDU with a base using a modified base in use on a table top.
(5) FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an assembled IDU suspended by a pulley cord.
(6) FIGS. 3A and 3B are top plan views of the two part frame set showing the plain frame as well as the support frame if molded in one piece, incorporating, in this case, 4 legs.
(7) FIG. 4 is a crossection detail of the image sheet support surface of each frame member showing the edge of the image sheet abutting a layer of two sided attachment tape.
(8) FIG. 5A is a plan view of the pre-wired electrical assembly that is part of the IDU kit. (In the case illustrated this is for a table top unit and incorporates a dimmer. Alternative electrical kits will be available, including an electric assembly with a pulley cord for pendant units.)
(9) FIG. 5B is a plan view of an alternative electrical assembly for a table top unit with a pedestal that will use a second support frame as a base.
(10) FIG. 5C is a plan view of an alternative electrical assembly for a table top unit with a pedestal using a modified base.
(11) FIG. 6A is a side view crossection of an assembled table top IDU taken along the major diameter of an oval shape.
(12) FIG. 6B is a side view crossection of an assembled table top IDU of an alternate embodiment using a frame with a slot to engage the image sheet edge.
(13) FIG. 6C is a side crossection detail of a modified edge shown in FIG. 6A.
(14) FIG. 6D is a side view crossection of an assembled table top IDU with a pedestal using a second support frame member as a base.
(15) FIG. 6E is a side view crossection of an assembled table top IDU with a pedestal using a modified base.
(16) FIG. 7 is a perspective schematic view showing a continuous portion of image sheet material merging from a printer with a variety of images printed on image sheet sections (prior to cutting apart for each IDU).
(17) FIG. 8 is a flow chart describing the assembly of an IDU formed with a one piece support frame and a plain frame.
(18) FIG. 9A is a flow chart of the initial order set-up supporting a new museum exhibit.
(19) FIG. 9B is a block diagram reflecting the hardware and network entities involved in implementing the flow chart of FIG. 9A.
(20) FIG. 10 is a flow chart depicting the various customer fulfillment options at a museum gift shop.
(21) FIG. 11 is a schematic top view of four different designs of IDU shapes each in which will have the same circumference for use with the same width image sheet.
(22) FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the separate parts of a frame kit of one type of alternate embodiment, in this case with four legs and a hub with two sets of four attachment lugs to accommodate frames with two different radii, such as, for example, an ellipse as compared to a circular rim frame. In this case, either of the rim frames may be used for the support frame since both incorporate attachment lugs.
(23) FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an assembled support frame using parts from the frame kit of FIG. 12.
(24) FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a single leg from the frame kit using parts from the frame kit of FIG. 12.
(25) FIG. 15 is a top plan view of the socket support hub of this alternate embodiment, using parts from the frame kit of FIG. 12.
(26) FIG. 16 is a crossectional view of the support hub of FIG. 15, when viewed along crossectional line 16-16 of FIG. 15 using parts from the frame kit of FIG. 12.
(27) FIG. 17 is a side view in partial crossectional showing the attachment of a leg with a frame on one end and the socket support hub at the opposite end using parts from the frame kit of FIG. 12.
(28) FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the parts of FIG. 17 from another viewpoint using parts from the frame kit of FIG. 12.
(29) FIG. 19 is a perspective close-up detail view of a leg-end, showing the tapered dovetail attachment slot.
(30) FIG. 20 is a flow chart of the assembly of an illuminated display unit (IDU), including alternate embodiments with a multi-part support rim/frame with a plurality of attachable legs.
(31) FIG. 21 is a side elevation of a hanging illuminated display unit (IDU) with legs pointing down and positioned between support and plain frame.
(32) FIG. 22 is a side elevation of a pedestal supported illuminated display unit (IDU) with legs pointing upward and positioned between support and plain frame.
(33) FIG. 23A is a perspective view of the separate parts of a further alternative frame kit with three legs.
(34) FIG. 23B is a perspective view of the separate parts of another further alternative frame kit with an equivalent set of three legs with an alternate end coupling.
(35) FIG. 23C is a perspective close-up detail view of the end coupling of one of the equivalent frame legs of FIG. 23B, as viewed within dashed circle line 23B of FIG. 23B.
(36) FIGS. 24A and 24B are perspective views of an assembled support frame using parts from the frame kit of FIG. 23A or 23B.
(37) FIG. 25A depicts a leg using the system or attachment of FIG. 23A and configured in an asymmetrical V.
(38) FIG. 25B depicts a leg using the alternate system of attachment of FIG. 23B.
(39) FIG. 26 is a top plan view of a socket support hub of the embodiment in FIG. 23A or 23B.
(40) FIG. 27 is a top plan view of the leg attachment slot on two alternative frame shapes for this embodiment.
(41) FIG. 28 is a perspective view of one of the support frame with projections with slots for the attachment of legs and triangular socket support hub of a further embodiment of an IDU of this invention.
(42) FIG. 29 is a perspective view of one of three identical legs of the further alternate embodiment.
(43) FIG. 30A is a perspective view of the basic design of a frame insert of this embodiment.
(44) FIG. 30B is a perspective view of an alternate design of a frame rim insert of this embodiment.
(45) FIG. 31 is a perspective view of the plain frame rim of this embodiment with slots for inserts but without projections for leg attachment.
(46) FIG. 32 is a perspective detail showing a frame insert FIG. 30A inserted into one of four horizontal slots in a frame member.
(47) FIGS. 33A-33G show the steps of assembling an image sheet into a cylinder shape prior to attachment to a frame for either a table top or pendant IDU, wherein:
(48) FIG. 33A is a perspective view of a box containing a rolled up image sheet.
(49) FIG. 33B is a perspective view of an image sheet unrolled with the release strip being pulled off one side of the two-sided tape attached to the edge of the image sheet.
(50) FIG. 33C is a perspective view of the step of attaching the free ends of the image sheet after removing the release strip.
(51) FIG. 33D is a perspective enlarged detail of FIG. 33C to illustrate the accurate adhesion of the image sheet cylinder along the overlap.
(52) FIG. 33E is a perspective view of an image sheet cylinder lying horizontally after assembly.
(53) FIG. 33F is an edge elevation detail of the overlapped seam of FIG. 33E showing directions of pressure required to permanently adhere the seam.
(54) FIG. 33G is a perspective view of a vertically oriented completed image sheet cylinder.
(55) FIGS. 34A-34F illustrate the steps of assembling the support frame of a table top IDU, wherein:
(56) FIG. 34A is a perspective view of a box containing the frame members of an IDU.
(57) FIG. 34B is a perspective view illustrating the step of inserting the three legs into the triangular socket support hub. The legs marked O are inserted into the socket support hub slots marked O.
(58) FIG. 34C is a perspective view showing the step of attaching legs and hub to the support frame. The leg ends marked X are inserted into the rim slots marked X.
(59) FIG. 34D is a crossectional detail of the edge of the support frame showing the orientation of perimeter slot if assembled for the tabletop model IDU.
(60) FIG. 34E is a perspective view of an assembled support frame.
(61) FIG. 34F is a crossectional detail of the edge of the support frame showing the orientation of the perimeter slot if assembled for a pendant model IDU.
(62) FIG. 35A-35G illustrate the steps of attaching the electrical components to the assembled support frame for a table top IDU and for a pendant IDU, wherein:
(63) FIG. 35A is a side elevation of lamp socket with threaded nipple and a retaining nut on electrical wire.
(64) FIG. 35B is a perspective detail showing insertion of electrical wire through a side slot into center hole of triangular socket support hub.
(65) FIG. 35C is a perspective detail showing setting the nipple on the socket into hole in socket support hub.
(66) FIG. 35D is a perspective detail showing nut dangling wire under socket support hub.
(67) FIG. 35E is a side elevation detail showing nut engaging socket nipple to attach socket to socket support hub.
(68) FIG. 35F is a side elevation in partial crossection showing support frame with socket attached and orientation of frame slot and socket for a tabletop IDU.
(69) FIG. 35G shows side elevation details of socket and rim slot as used in a pendant IDU with orientation opposite to that of FIG. 35F.
(70) FIGS. 36A-36K illustrate the assembly steps to complete the assembly of a table top IDU by attaching the image sheet cylinder to the assembled frame members, wherein:
(71) FIG. 36A is a perspective view of orientating the plain frame atop the image sheet cylinder.
(72) FIG. 36B is a perspective view of the completion of action of 35A.
(73) FIG. 36C is a perspective view illustrating insertion of four frame inserts to retain the image sheet in the slot in the plain frame.
(74) FIG. 36D is a perspective detail of a rim insert inserted in a horizontal frame slot.
(75) FIG. 36E is a perspective view illustrating inverting an image sheet with the plain frame attached.
(76) FIG. 36F is a perspective view showing support frame oriented atop open end of the formed image sheet.
(77) FIG. 36G is a perspective view showing the completion of the action of 36F.
(78) FIG. 36H is a perspective view illustrating insertion of four frame inserts to retain the image sheet in the supporting frame.
(79) FIG. 36I is a perspective detail of one rim insert inserted through one horizontal rim slot.
(80) FIG. 36J is a perspective view illustrating inversion of assembled tabletop IDU so that legs can rest on a horizontal surface.
(81) FIG. 36K is a perspective view showing addition of a lamp to the complete IDU.
(82) FIG. 37A-37J illustrate the final assembly of a pendant IDU of this further alternate embodiment, wherein:
(83) FIG. 37A is a perspective view of orienting the plain frame atop the image sheet cylinder.
(84) FIG. 37B is a perspective view of the completion of action of 37A.
(85) FIG. 37C is a perspective view illustrating insertion of four frame inserts to retain the image sheet in the slot in the plain frame.
(86) FIG. 37D is a perspective detail of a frame insert inserted through one horizontal frame slot.
(87) FIG. 37E is a perspective view illustrating inversion of image sheet with plain frame attached.
(88) FIG. 37F is a perspective view showing support frame oriented atop open end of the formed image sheet.
(89) FIG. 37G is a perspective view showing the completion of the action of 37E.
(90) FIG. 37H is a perspective view illustrating insertion of four frame inserts to retain image sheet in the support frame.
(91) FIG. 37I is a perspective detail of one frame insert inserted though one horizontal rim slot.
(92) FIG. 37J is a perspective view illustrating adding a lamp to the complete pendant IDU.
(93) FIG. 38 is a flow chart of the order set-up for a new or previously ordered museum image for use with this further alternate embodiment.
(94) FIG. 39 is a block diagram reflecting the hardware and network entities in implementing the flow chart of FIG. 38.
(95) FIG. 40 is a flow chart depicting the customer fulfillment options at a museum gift shop for this further alternate embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
(96) The present invention has broad applications to many fields for a variety of IDU's. For illustrative purposes only, a preferred mode for carrying out the invention is described herein.
(97) FIG. 1A shows a table top 9 on which illuminated display unit (IDU) 1 with image sheet 3 displaying image 2 rests. Image sheet 3 is contained and shaped between a support frame 4 at the bottom edge incorporating support legs facing down and a plain frame 5 at top edge. A small overlap 6 of the free ends is at the rear of the display unit. Electrical control (switch or switch/dimmer) 8 is shown on electrical line 7.
(98) FIG. 1B is a similar image of the same IDU 1 but with a pedestal tube and second support frame added at the base, wherein the support legs extend upward within the region surrounded by image sheet 3 of the illuminated display unit (IDU) 1.
(99) FIG. 1C is a similar image of the same IDU 1 but with a pedestal tube and with a modified base, also wherein the support legs extend upward within the region surrounded by image sheet 3 of the illuminated display unit (IDU) 1.
(100) FIG. 2 is a similar image of the same IDU 1 configured for hanging from pulley cord 10 with support legs at the top.
(101) FIGS. 3A and 3B show the two frame parts. In this illustration the plain frame 5 is an oval shape. The support frame 4 is also oval but incorporates four legs (drawn flat) 14 leading at the center to a hub, such as a lamp socket support hub 12 with a central hole for the socket nipple 17 and a side slot for electric wire insertion 18.
(102) Each of the image sheet support edges of the frames in this illustration have a preferably L-shaped crossection (see FIG. 4) which supports a top or bottom edge of image sheet 3. These supports also have a layer of tape attached with a release liner 15. The release liner can be removed prior to assembly to expose an adhesive layer for permanent attachment of the image sheet to the frame. This is optional for the table top unit where gravity holds the image sheet to the support frame 4 and to the plain frame 5. For the hanging configuration where gravity tends to pull the three sections apart, the adhesive layer 15 must be exposed and used.
(103) FIG. 5A shows a pre-wired electrical cord set for the table top model 20 consisting of lamp socket 21 with pre-attached short threaded nipple 22, nut 23, control 8, extension cord 7, and wall plug 25. Line cord 7 fits through slot 18 on socket support hub 12 which then permits short threaded nipple 22 to fit through the center hole 17 for attachment of the lamp socket even though the entire electrical set is pre-wired.
(104) FIG. 5B shows a pre-wired electrical set for the pedestal model 20 consisting of lamp socket 21 with pre-attached short threaded nipple 22, tube with internal threads to fit nipples at both ends 21, with pre-attached short threaded nipple at the end opposite the lamp socket 22, nut 23, control 1, extension cord 7, and wall plug 25. Line cord 7 fits through slot 18 on socket support hub 12 which then permits short threaded nipple 22 to fit through the center hole 17 for attachment even though the entire electrical set is pre-wired.
(105) FIG. 5C shows the same electrical set as 5B but with a modified base unit 36 on line cord 7.
(106) FIG. 6A shows how the various parts fit together for the table top model; bulb 7 (or optional CFL) is not part of the electrical kit because of fragility concerns. Note that legs 14 on support frame 4 angle down to create integral legs. The preferred fabrication of both frame parts is injection molding using a glass filled polycarbonate resin. In this illustration the support frame 4 would be formed as a single piece.
(107) FIG. 6B shows an alternate embodiment of an illuminated table top model display unit (IDU) using another design of a support edge with an outer support lip added on plain frame 35 and support frame 34. The detail of FIG. 6C shows how such an edge engages art sheet 3 at top edge. Note that double-sided tape with release liner 36A may be attached to art sheet 3 or to the frame edge is in either design. Frame edge material thickness T is nominally EDM 3/32 with other dimensions relatively scaled.
(108) FIG. 6D shows a pedestal model illuminated display unit (IDU) which provides a pedestal between the image display unit and table top. This shows how the pedestal tube internally threaded at both ends 24 screws on to the short threaded nipple 22 an the lamp socket 21 and at the other end on to a second short nipple 22 which is inserted into center hub 12 on a second support frame 34, and held in place by nut 23. Legs 14 are shown extending upward within the region surrounded by image sheet 3 and on the bottom frame which would be possible if also made, with the legs thus oriented or if the support frame parts are provided separately for customer assembly as described on a later page herein concerning FIGS. 12-27.
(109) FIG. 6E shows the modified base 36 illustrated in FIG. 1B, which assembles in same manner as the parts in FIG. 6D but must be provided pre-threaded on the electric wire as part of the electric kit because it does not have the unique slot provided for wire insertion that is on the support frame 34. Legs 14 are shown optionally extending upward within the region surrounded by image sheet. Electric cord 7 preferably exits out through a hole in base 36.
(110) FIG. 7 shows a printer, such as a wide format printer 30, spewing out a long sheet of image sheet material which will be sliced at dashed lines 31 to form individual strips (all of the same circumference length as the width of the image sheet material but cut in various lengths W) which, will become image sheets 3 displaying images AW after cutting into separate units. Note the heights of the different image sheets (W) varies with the particular AW being printed since they are determined by the programmed instructions to the printer and are therefore infinitely variable. However, any printer capable of printing an image upon a flexible translucent or transparent such as a sheet of plastic, laminated textile or art paper may be used, wherein one or more images and lettering may be printed on the flexible sheet.
(111) The IDU assembly flow chart of FIG. 8 is largely self-explanatory. Note that the orientation of the art to the support frame is different depending on whether a table top, pedestal or hanging version of IDU 1 is being assembled; this can be easily seen in FIGS. 1 and 2. Although permanent or temporary assembly is an option for a table top unit, the hanging version must be bonded together with the tape around the edge of the frame sections. Temporary assembly of the table top unit permits using the same frame kit serially for a variety of art sheet displays.
(112) The process for the initial and subsequent order set-up with a museum gift shop was described in words in the summary section. FIG. 9A shows this process in flow chart form. This shows the optional methods of performing the formatting of the museum Image to create and Image Unit file of formatted digitized images that actually drives the printer to print out image sheets. The accurate pricing of each image sheet can only be performed after this step.
(113) The flow chart of FIG. 9B clearly illustrates the computer hardware and network entities involved in actually implementing the order process. The box labeled Company in FIG. 9B includes a computer system including a central processing unit (CPU) or microprocessor facilitating communications enabled by a server through the internet between the company and three different museum gift shops is shown. Museums A and B are involved in initial order set-up, but Museum A lets the company edit their exhibit image file while Museum B edits their own exhibit image file to an IAU file using software provided by the company. In both cases, IAU pricing is provided by the company. Museum C sends a drop shop order to the company for a customer named Smith. Both IDU kits as well as fully assembled IDU's with attached image sheets can be shipped out. The company keeps up with the museum interacting with its computer and microprocessor throughout the internet. Field representatives or company sales persons (as represented by laptops SP-A and SP-B) can also be used to send in orders resulting from museum gift shop visits or other communications. FIG. 9B also indicates how the company with its computer CPU or microprocessor creates the image sheets on printer 30 and produces kits from an internal production line (as shown). Electric/frame kits and image sheets, or fully assembled IDU's, are shipped by a common carrier to the museum shops or to specific drop ship museum customers.
(114) The different customer order fulfillment options discussed above in the summary are detailed in the flow chart of FIG. 10.
(115) Although the main objective of this invention is to create an efficient method of displaying images that may be purchased at a museum shop, many other uses for an IDU unrelated to museums art exist. One is a direct internet to customer marketing method whereby the images (which may, for instance, consist of family or travel snapshots) is provided by the customer for creating an image sheet. Another possibility is advertising use of IDU's such as displays promoting a certain brand of beer at a tavern. Another is images depicting local tourist attractions for sale in souvenir shops. The oval format described may not be optimal for all applications. It is possible to use the identical manufacturing steps to create IDU's of any annular crossection by using frames that have alternate peripheral shapes.
(116) While intended use is to illuminate the translucent image sheet, under ambient light the image sheet still displays the image thereon.
(117) FIG. 11 schematically shows four examples of alternative top outline views of an IDU. They are drawn at the same scale to show the relative feature size for a constant circumference. The circle and extended circle shapes would be easily produced, while the sharp corners of the square and hexagonal shapes would be somewhat rounded in practice to prevent creasing of the image sheet and is applicable to any shaped polygon, such as hexagonal or pentagonal, etc.
(118) The parts comprising a frame kit of an illuminated display unit (IDU) of an alternate embodiment are shown in FIG. 12. Two plain frames 104 with image sheet alignment marks on the outside 138, and leg attachments lugs 137 in the inside, a plurality of legs, such as, for example, four legs 114, with a coupling at each end, such as, for example, four legs 114, with a coupling at each end, such as, for example, a tapered dovetail coupling slot feature 136 at each end, and a lamp socket support hub 112 are included. For this example cooperative couplings, such as, for example, protruding lugs 137, are located on the inside of each plain frame 104 and on the outer surfaces of socket support hub 112, and the lugs 137 fit into the couplings in this example tapered slots at the leg ends 136. It is further noted that other configurations for the hub may be provided, so long as it is capable of holding the light source within the confines of the formed images sheet held in place by the support frame and the plain frame, wherein further the hub is connected to the support frame by a plurality of legs or spokes.
(119) FIG. 13 shows such an assembled support frame with the legs 114 down. Note that the inner lugs 137 on hub 112 are used; a different shape or circumferential size of frame may require the use of the outer lugs 137 on hub 112.
(120) FIG. 14 provides a clear view of a single, preferably V-shaped leg 114 with preferably slotted leg ends 136. In this case the V is asymmetrical.
(121) FIGS. 15 and 16 show details of lamp socket support hub 112 including lugs 137 and electrical wire access slot 140. That is one of the parts illustrated in FIG. 12.
(122) FIGS. 17-19 show details of an attachment system for the parts illustrated in FIG. 12 for the couplings associated with legs 114. For example, FIG. 17 is a side view showing the fit of couplings such as lugs 137 within cooperative couplings, such as tapered slots, in ends 136. FIG. 18 is a perspective view showing a similar attachment. FIG. 19 shows an enlarged leg end 136. The tapered dovetail slot (note width w1 greater than width w2) is shown clearly. Tapered dovetail lugs 137 are sized so that they will engage the inner walls of the slot in 136 at the mid slot position to lock the two members together.
(123) The flow chart of IDU assembly of FIG. 20 contrasts the assembly of the previous embodiment with the one-piece molded support frame shown in FIGS. 1-11 with that of the unassembled frame kit of the alternate embodiment of FIGS. 12-26. The entire difference in procedure involves the removal of the kit parts from the box and the assembly of the support frame by connecting each leg to the rim of a plain frame and to the lamp socket support while being aware of the desired configuration. From there on, the procedure is substantially identical to that of the previous embodiment, including the production of FIG. 7 as well as the assembly and organizational computerized flow charts of FIGS. 9A, 9B and 10 and the schematic view of possible shapes shown in FIG. 11.
(124) FIGS. 21 and 22 illustrate illuminated display unit (IDU) configurations that are not possible with the original one-piece molded support frame. A tabletop configuration using the support frame kit of this embodiment would be configured as in the original embodiment (support frame faces up with legs down); in fact FIG. 2 from the original embodiment is a good representation of it.
(125) In FIG. 21, hanging illuminated display unit (IDU) 140 is configured such that support frame 141 is, assembled with the support groove for image sheet 3 on member 104 facing down, as are legs 114. Plain frame 141 is simply a member 104 with the groove for image sheet 3 facing upward. Note that legs 114 now reside between support frame 141 and plain frame 142. This orientation is not possible with the original one-piece support frame which included the legs pointing in the opposite direction. Legs, socket support hub and lamp are shown in dashed lines as obscured by image sheet 3.
(126) FIG. 22 illustrates a pedestal lamp 150 where support frame 151 is assembled from a member 104 facing upward and legs 114 also pointing upward. Plain frame 152 is a member 104 facing downward. Again here it can be observed that legs are positioned between plain and support frames (see dashed lines). Base 153 is assembled from a member 104 facing down and legs 114 facing up with a socket support hub in the center. Alternatively, a modified base 136 can be used (as shown in FIG. 6E).
(127) In yet, another embodiment shown in FIGS. 23 and 27, there are preferably three legs 1114 provided, and the attachment system of the legs 1114 to the hub 1104 and to the rim frame 1104 is changed to a tongue and slot system.
(128) FIG. 23A shows the parts comprising of a frame kit of an illuminated display unit, (IDU) of this alternate embodiment. This embodiment includes one frame 1105 which does not have any provision for attachment of legs 1114 and another frame 1104 with such attachment provisions. The kit constitutes the two frames with sheet align marks on the outside 1138 and leg attachment slots 1139 on the inside, three legs 1114 with a coupling tongue at each end and a lamp socket support hub 1112 with slots for leg attachment of leg 1114.
(129) FIG. 23B shows the parts comprising of a frame kit of an illuminated display unit (IDU) of a further alternative embodiment with equivalent component coupling parts. This embodiment includes one frame 1105 which does not have any provision for attachment of legs 1114 and another frame 1104 with such attachment provisions. The kit constitutes the two frames with sheet align marks on the outside 1138 and leg attachments slots 1139 on the inside three legs 1114 with a coupling tongue at each end and a lamp socket support disc 1112 with slots for leg attachment of leg 1114.
(130) FIG. 23C shows the end coupling of one of the equivalent frame legs 1114 of FIG. 23B, as viewed within dashed circle line 23B of FIG. 23B.
(131) FIGS. 24A and 24B show the assembled support frame 1104 with legs 1114 and lamp socket support hub 1112 attached.
(132) FIGS. 25A and 25B shows one of the legs 1114 of FIG. 23A and FIG. 23B respectively. The leg is an asymmetrical V-shape to enable the support of the unit to be spread farther apart and the system for attachment for the leg 1114 to the lamp support hub 1112 and to the frame 1104. The attachment details are shown clearly in this figure. Each leg 1114 has two attachment extensions 1140 at an angle to the angled leg portions 1142 and 1143 of each leg 1114. Extensions 1140 are angled vertically for insertion into and through slots or holes, such as for example, rectangular holes/slots 1139 in support frame 1104 and lamp support hub 1112. As the extensions 1140 are pushed in toward the step region, molded cantilevered tongues 1141 are compressed until they again snap out locking extensions in slots or holes, such as for example, rectangular slots/holes 1139. The V shape of legs 1114 is preferably asymmetric to place the vertex closer to the rim (X1) than to the lamp support hub 1112 at the center (X2) affording better stability. Tongue 1140 has a cantilevered tip which is spring loaded, so that it compresses as tongue 1140 is inserted into leg attachment slot/hole 1139 and decompresses outward when through the slot/hole 1139, thereby locking leg 1114 in place in respective slots/holes 1139 in frame 1104 at one end and in lamp support hub 1112 at the other end.
(133) FIG. 26 shows details of the lamp socket support hub 1112 including leg attachment slots/holes 1139 for legs of FIG. 23A or FIG. 23B and electrical wire access slot 1118.
(134) FIG. 27 shows examples of the leg attachment slots 1139 configured for a circular rim frame 1104 and an elliptical rim frame 1104. The slot on the circular rim frame 1104 is positioned a distance inside the rim frame 1104 to illustrate provisions to accommodate a leg of one size to fit frames with a different radial difference from the hub lamp support hub 1112 to the rim/frame 1104.
(135) In a further alternate embodiment, the frame of the illuminate display unit (IDU is comprised of multiple component parts, and the image sheet may be printed on a coated art paper designed for inkjet printing. The image sheet is retained in a non-permanent method using frame inserts in the support and plain frame members.
(136) FIG. 28 shows an assembled support frame of this embodiment 2000 having integrally molded attachments 2001, 2002, and 2003 with slots (marked X) at each respective slot attachment to accept one end (marked X) at one end of each respective leg member for insertion of three identical leg members 2010. The distal end (marked O) of each of the legs is inserted into a rectangular slot (marked O) of each respective slot of the central hub 2020 in the triangular socket support hub 2020 which completes the assembly. Note that the three leg attachments (2001, 2002, and 2003) are asymmetric but the locations of their attachment points around an oval rim 2000 conspire to place triangular hub 2020 in the center. Hub 2020 will accept attachment of a lamp socket with a threaded nipple at hole 2023 and permit entry of electrical cord through slot 2024. Integral molded horizontal rim slots 2004 are used for the frame inserts retaining the image sheet. The rim slots 2004 are located within lugs projecting above the inner rim of the support frame 2000, which, together with the lugs 2064, also projecting above the inner rim of the support frame 2000 and located at both ends of the major axis of the frame 2000, facilitate the insertion of the image sheet 2052 into the circumferential rim slots within support frame 2000 and plain frame 2040.
(137) FIG. 29 shows one of three legs 2010 with frame engaging end 2011 (marked X) and hub engaging end 2012 (marked O).
(138) FIG. 30A shows one of the frame inserts 2030 that are inserted through horizontal slots 2004 in both the support frame 2000 and the plain frame 2040 to retain the image sheet by impingement with central member end 2032. FIG. 31 shows an outer perspective view of the plain frame rim 2040 of this embodiment with slots 2004 for inserts 2030 but without projection attachments 2001, 2002, and 2003 for leg attachment that are shown in FIG. 28. As shown in FIG. 32, wing members 2031 compress on insertion then snap back, thereby locking into slots 2004 to hold the insert in position pressing the image sheet 2052 against the outer rim slot surface of the outer circumferential rim slot 2063 of outer circumferential frame portion 2061 of frame 2000. Inserts 2030 may be made of an elastomeric resin with high durometer. Materials such as polyurethane and silicone exhibit the desirable features discussed. Note the serrated end 2032 which enhances grip on the surface of image sheet 2052. Perspective view detail FIG. 32 also shows the resilient frame insert 2030 inserted in a horizontal slot 2004 edge of rim 2000. A crossectional detail view of the outer circumferential frame portion 2061 with rim slot 2063 in a region away from a slot 2004 is shown at FIGS. 34D and 34F. The image sheet 2052 edge is pressed between end 2032 of a resilient insert 2030 and the long outer wall of recess slot 2063 as shown in FIGS. 32, 34D and 34F. The location of the region in which the image sheet 2052 is located in FIGS. 30B and 32 is indicated by arrows identified as reference numeral 2052, but because these views in FIGS. 30B and 32 are not cross sections, the actual image sheet 2052 is not illustrated.
(139) FIG. 30B shows an alternate design for the frame insert 2030 inserted into a horizontal frame slot 2004.
(140) The assembly details for the image sheet for either a table top or a pendant type IDU, taking an image sheet 2052 from package box A 2050 through forming it into a cylinder for frame attachment using adhesive strip 2053 to attach the free edges, is shown is the sequence of drawings of FIGS. 33A-33G. The comments in the brief descriptions of the drawings are sufficient to follow the steps.
(141) The assembly details of the support frame for a table top IDU from package box B 2060 through completion are shown in the steps of FIGS. 34A-34E. Note that detail 34D shows the crossection 2062 of rim 2000 with the rim slot 2063 facing down. The same assembly steps but with an inverted rim 2000 as shown in detail of FIG. 34F would be used for assembly of a support frame for a pendant IDU.
(142) The attachment of the bulb socket, which is part of the electrical subassembly, to the hub of the support frame for a table top IDU is illustrated in FIG. 35A (showing bulb socket 21, with threaded nipple attached 22 and nut 23 threaded onto the electric cable) through the completed attachment of FIG. 35F. FIG. 35B shows the slot in the hub which enables the electric cord, of a fully assembled cord set to be inserted in the hub 2020. The details are explained in the brief description of this figure sequence. The detail of FIG. 35G shows the different orientation of the bulb socket 21 as well as the rim slot 2063 for the assembly sequence for a pendant IDU.
(143) The attachment of the image sheet to the frame for a table top IDU is detailed in the sequence of FIGS. 36A-36K. In reviewing these figures, note that image sheet 2052 orientation as depicted by the human form. FIGS. 36E and 36J show the details for the next assembly sequence. Details of each illustration can be gleaned from the components in the brief descriptions of the drawings. This sequence ends in the completed table top IDU.
(144) A similar sequence of FIGS. 37A-37J details of the same parts assembled for a pendant IDU.
(145) In this further alternate embodiment, the order set-up flow chart of FIG. 9A for previous embodiments is modified at FIG. 38 to reflect changes incorporating an enhanced company web site. One change is that the museum (or the institution or business or individual customer) can format their art directly on the company website as this now has the required software to make this possible. These changes streamline the communications and save time.
(146) While the block diagram of FIG. 39 is similar to that of FIG. 9B of earlier embodiments, FIG. 39A shows the actual communicating pairs through the Internet for IAU pricing and image file setup. The customer fulfillment flow chart of FIG. 10 for previous embodiment has been simplified at FIG. 40 for this further alternate embodiment to eliminate the drop ship request option to the company.
(147) While the foregoing illustrations depict a light source including a lamp with an AC socket and electrical cord connected to an AC power source, it is known that other light sources could be utilized, such as light emitting diode lamps, or DC powered lamps with DC power sources, such as batteries or other low voltage power sources.
(148) In the foregoing description, certain terms and visual depictions are used to illustrate the preferred embodiment. However, no unnecessary limitations are to be construed by the terms used or illustrations depicted, beyond what is shown in the prior image, since the terms and illustrations are exemplary only a, and are not meant to limit the scope of the present invention.
(149) It is further known that other modifications may be made to the present invention, without departing the scope of the invention, as noted in the appended Claims.
