TW201536225A - Modular frame assembly and methods to use the same - Google Patents

Abstract

A frame assembly is provided having a base frame coupleable to the hanging structure and a picture holder assembly detachably coupleable to the base frame. The picture holder assembly includes an exterior border portion having means to detachably couple to the base frame, the exterior border portion being detachable without the need to first remove the base frame from the hanging structure; a cover; and a holder detachably coupled to the exterior border portion, the holder and the cover securing a picture therebetween. Related systems and methods to attach the frame assembly are also provided.

Description

Module frame assembly and method of use thereof

The present invention relates generally to frames, and more particularly to image frames.

Conventional frame assemblies, such as frame assemblies for displaying images or photographs, typically include a frame having one of the recesses for positioning an image therein. An outer cover is then attached to the frame to secure the image. The outer cover typically surrounds a peripheral portion of the image and includes a clamp or hook to secure the outer cover to a rear surface of the frame. The entire frame assembly is then rigidly attached to a suspension structure such as a wall via nails, screws, bolts, hooks or other fastening means.

However, conventional frame assemblies can suffer from a variety of disadvantages. For example, replacing an existing image may require removing the entire frame assembly from the suspension structure and disassembling the frame assembly to remove and replace existing images. In addition, the use of such frame assemblies to suspend an image may require several iterations before attaching a precision and horizontal frame assembly to the wall, which may leave a number of undesirable traces on the suspension structure. This problem is further exacerbated when assembling an image array. Each frame assembly will have to be positioned horizontally and accurately relative to adjacent frame assemblies, thus requiring complex and labor intensive horizontal and vertical indicators. Furthermore, properly aligning the image within the recess may require the frame to be fabricated with tight tolerance; this failure may result in positioning the image in a skewed or tilted manner. It is also desirable for the frame assembly to have recesses that are sized and shaped to accommodate images of various sizes and shapes to be inserted. This further increases manufacturing costs.

Embodiments described herein provide a frame assembly that has a robust and effective form factor to achieve accurate and simple mounting on the suspension structure. In accordance with an embodiment, a modular frame assembly that can be coupled to a suspension structure can be summarized as comprising: a base frame coupled to the suspension structure; and an image holder assembly detachably coupled to The base frame. The image holder assembly can include: an outer boundary portion having a member for removably coupling to the base frame, wherein the outer boundary portion is detachable without first removing the base frame from the suspension structure; a cover; A holder detachably coupled to the outer boundary portion such that the holder and the cover secure an image between them.

In accordance with another embodiment, a frame assembly attachable to a suspension structure can be summarized as comprising: a base frame coupled to the suspension structure; and an image holder assembly detachably coupled to The base frame. The base frame may include a plurality of peripheral perforations of the legs. The image holder assembly can include: an outer boundary portion including a side member forming a circumference around the outer boundary portion, each side member including the plurality of leg peripheral recesses detachably coupled to the base frame Corresponding to at least one leg of the recessed hole around the leg; a cover; and a retainer. The holder may include at least one pair of integral hooks extending from one of the sides, the hooks being configured to be coupled to one of the respective receiving slots positioned at the outer boundary portion, the holder and the cover securing an image Between them.

In accordance with another embodiment, a system attachable to a frame assembly of a suspension structure can be summarized as comprising: a plurality of frame assemblies configured to form an array of frame assemblies; and a plurality of connectors, A plurality of connectors are configured to interconnect the plurality of frame assemblies. Each frame assembly can include: a base frame coupled to the suspension structure; and an image holder assembly detachably coupled to the base frame. The image holder assembly can include: an outer boundary portion; a cover; and a retainer detachably coupled to the outer boundary portion, the retainer and the cover securing an image therebetween.

According to another embodiment, a method of attaching a first frame assembly can be summarized as a package The method includes: coupling a base frame to a suspension structure; and coupling an image holder assembly having an outer boundary portion, a cover, and a holder to the base frame.

In accordance with another embodiment, a kit for attaching a frame assembly to a suspension structure can be summarized as comprising: a frame assembly; a plurality of at least one of an anchor, a screw or a staple; and a set of instructions. The frame assembly can include: a base frame coupled to the suspension structure; and an image holder assembly detachably coupled to the base frame. The image holder assembly can include: an outer boundary portion having a member detachably coupled to the base frame; a cover; and a holder detachably coupled to the outer boundary portion, the holder and the holder The cover secures an image between it and the like.

10‧‧‧Frame assembly

11‧‧‧ wall

12‧‧‧Base frame

14‧‧‧Image Holder Assembly

16‧‧‧ recess

18‧‧‧ perimeter wall

20‧‧‧ perimeter wall

22‧‧‧ perimeter wall

24‧‧‧ perimeter wall

26‧‧‧Base plate

28‧‧‧ recessed holes around the feet

30‧‧‧Recessed holes around the fixture

32‧‧‧Elongated recess

34‧‧‧Elongated recess

36‧‧‧Elongated recess

38‧‧‧Elongated recess

40‧‧‧Clamp receiving surface

42‧‧‧Clamp receiving surface

44‧‧‧Clamp receiving surface

46‧‧‧Clamp receiving surface

48‧‧‧Base frame corner extension

50‧‧‧First fastener guide

54‧‧‧Second fastener guide

56‧‧‧First guide aperture

58‧‧‧Second guide aperture

60‧‧‧L type bracket

61‧‧‧Level Holder

62‧‧‧External boundary

64‧‧‧Retainer

66‧‧‧ Cover

68‧‧‧ side components

70‧‧‧ side components

72‧‧‧ side components

74‧‧‧ side components

76‧‧‧ openings

78‧‧‧Base flange

80‧‧‧Base flange

82‧‧‧Base flange

84‧‧‧Base flange

86‧‧‧Upright flange

88‧‧‧Upright flange

90‧‧‧Upright flange

92‧‧‧Upright flange

94‧‧‧ feet

96‧‧‧ feet end

97‧‧‧Boundary Corner Extension

98‧‧‧ access opening

99‧‧‧Slit components

100‧‧‧slit

102‧‧‧Base plate

103‧‧‧Retainer side components

104‧‧‧Retainer side components

105‧‧‧Retainer side components

106‧‧‧Retainer side components

107‧‧‧ hook components

108‧‧‧Angle flange

110‧‧‧ fixture

112‧‧‧Base flange

114‧‧‧Upright flange

116‧‧‧Foot hole

118‧‧‧Clamping end

200‧‧‧ system

300‧‧‧ system

400‧‧‧ system

R _P ‧‧‧ center reference plane

H _P ‧‧‧Center horizontal reference plane

1 is an exploded view of an assembly of a frame in accordance with an embodiment.

Figure 2 is an isometric view of the frame assembly of Figure 1.

Figure 3 is an isometric view of the frame assembly of Figure 1 with certain components removed for clarity.

Figure 4 is a rear elevational view of the frame assembly of Figure 1 with certain components removed for clarity.

Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the frame assembly of Figure 1 taken along line 5-5 of Figure 2.

Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the frame assembly of Figure 1 taken along line 6-6 of Figure 2.

Figure 7 is a front elevational view of one of the systems of a frame assembly in accordance with an embodiment with certain components removed for clarity.

Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the system of the frame assembly of Figure 7 taken along line 8-8 of Figure 7.

Figure 9 is a front elevational view of one of the systems of the frame assembly in accordance with another embodiment with certain components removed for clarity.

Figure 10 is a front elevational view of one of the systems of the frame assembly in accordance with another embodiment with certain components removed for clarity.

In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a full understanding of one of the disclosed embodiments. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, however, that the embodiments may be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or other methods, components, materials, and the like. In other instances, well-known structures associated with the framework and related frame assemblies are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring the description of the embodiments.

Unless the context requires otherwise, the words "comprise" and variations thereof (such as "comprises" and "comprising") should be understood throughout the specification and claims. It is an open, inclusive meaning, that is, understood as "including, but not limited to."

Throughout the specification, reference to "an embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in the embodiment. Thus, the appearance of the phrase "in an embodiment" or "in an embodiment" Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner with one or more embodiments.

The singular forms "", ""," It should also be noted that the term "or" is used in its meaning of "and/or" unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

1 through 6 illustrate a frame assembly 10 in accordance with an embodiment. The frame assembly 10 includes a base frame 12 and an image holder assembly 14. The base frame 12 can be coupled to a suspension structure such as a wall, a door, a ceiling, and the like. Image holder assembly 14 is detachably coupled to base frame 12.

The base frame 12 includes a recess 16 formed by peripheral sidewalls 18, 20, 22, 24 that extend upwardly relative to a base plate 26. Each of the side walls 18, 20, 22, 24 includes a recess 28 extending therethrough about one of the legs. Each of the side walls 18, 20, 22, 24 also includes a plurality of clamp peripheral recesses 30. The periphery of the clamp recess 30 is positioned adjacent to both sides of the peripheral recess 28 and on either side of the peripheral recess 28 of the leg. Each clip 30 are outside the recesses are equally spaced with respect to one of the center leg 28 surrounding recesses reference plane R _P. Although the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 6 include a plurality of leg peripheral recesses 28 and a plurality of clip peripheral recesses 30, in an alternative embodiment, the base frame 12 can include a foot peripheral recess 28 And a clamp peripheral recess 30, or may include any number of leg peripheral recesses 28 and clamp peripheral recesses 30, respectively.

As best shown in FIG. 4, at one of the rear sides of the base frame 12, the side walls 18, 20, 22, 24 include respective elongate recesses 32, 34, 36, 38. The elongate recesses 32, 34, 36, 38 extend only through portions of the respective side walls 18, 20, 22, 24. The elongate recesses 32, 34, 36, 38 are generally sized (i.e., width, length) to extend beyond the distal end of the respective side walls 18, 20, 22, 24 to the clamp peripheral recess 30 to define the clamp receiving surface 40. 42, 42, 44, 46, the clamp receiving surfaces 40, 42, 44, 46 are thus formed at the rear side of the base frame 12.

With continued reference to FIGS. 1 through 6, the base frame 12 includes a base frame corner extension 48 that extends upwardly relative to the base plate 26. The base frame corner extension 48 is generally L-shaped and is formed to be closest to where the outer sides of the side walls 18, 20, 22, 24 intersect each other. A groove is formed between each of the base frame corner extensions 48 that extends upwardly from the base frame corner extensions 48, which is discussed in more detail elsewhere.

Within the recess 16, the base frame 12 includes a first fastener guide 50 extending outwardly from the base plate 26. The first fastener guide 50 is annular and has an aperture 52 extending therethrough. The apertures 52 are configured to allow a staple or other fastening member to extend therethrough when coupling the base frame 12 to the suspended structure. The first fastener guide 50 and the base frame 12 may be integral. For example, the first fastener guide 50 can be an injection molded portion of a single integrally formed base frame 12. Injection molding of the substrate frame 12 can include a single emission or multiple emission procedure and can include one or more materials. In other examples, the substrate frame 12 may be formed via an additive manufacturing process or another program. or, The first fastener guide 50 can be coupled to the base frame 12. For example, the first fastener guide 50 can be fastened or adhered to the base frame 26. Moreover, while the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-6 includes a first fastener guide 50, in alternative embodiments, the base frame 12 can include any number of first fastener guides 50.

The base frame 12 also includes a pair of second fastener guides 54. The second fastener guide 54 is positioned closest to the periphery of the base plate 26 and simply reflects a mirror image relative to a central horizontal reference plane H _{P of the} base frame 12. The second fastener guide 54 includes a plurality of first guide apertures 56 and second guide apertures 58. The first guide aperture 56 and the second guide aperture 58 have different diameters and generally form a staggered pattern. The diameter of the first guide aperture 56 and the second guide aperture 58 can be sized to accommodate a wide variety of screws, staples or other fastening members for coupling the base frame 12 to the suspension structure. For example, the first guide aperture 56 can have a diameter that allows a Walldog type screw or anchor to extend therethrough such that one of the heads of the screw can be disposed, for example, on a top surface of the second fastener guide 54. Similarly, the second guide member 58 may have apertures allowing a bolt or screw head a Philips ^TM extending through a diameter of, for example, such that one of the screw head 54 disposed at one surface of the second fastener guide member on. Alternatively, the second fastener guide 54 can comprise a wide variety of apertures, wherein the apertures have a plurality of diameters to accommodate a wide variety of fastening members.

Furthermore, the second fastener guide 54 and the base frame 12 can be integral. For example, the second fastener guide 54 can be an injection molded portion of a single integrally formed base frame 12. Injection molding of the substrate frame 12 can include a single emission or multiple emission procedure and can include one or more materials. In other examples, the base frame 12 may be formed via a laminate manufacturing process or another process. Alternatively, the second fastener guide 54 can be coupled to the base frame 12. For example, the second fastener guide 54 can be fastened or adhered to the base frame 26. Moreover, while the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-6 includes a pair of second fastener guides 54, in alternative embodiments, the base frame 12 can include any number of second fastener guides 54.

At the lower portion, the base frame 12 includes a pair defining a level holder 61 Separated L-shaped brackets 60. One of the base flanges of the L-bracket 60 can have a substantially flat surface that can be further parallel to a level and horizontal surface. Such horizontal surfaces may comprise, for example, a bottom plate structure or an outer or inner surface of the side walls 20, 24. More specifically, the base flange of the L-bracket 60 is adapted to receive a level. The level can be a bubble level, a digital level or other type of device. The L-shaped bracket 60 advantageously allows a user to orient the base frame 12 and, therefore, the frame assembly 10 such that, for example, it is horizontal relative to one of the horizontal surfaces (such as the floor structure) with respect to the horizontal plane. For example, the user can first position the base frame 12 above the suspension structure. Prior to coupling the base frame 12 to the suspension structure, the user can place the level in the level holder 61 and adjust it until the base frame 12 is level with the reference level.

The L-shaped bracket 60 and the base frame 12 may be integral. For example, the L-shaped bracket 60 can be an injection molded portion of a single integrally formed base frame 12. Injection molding of the substrate frame 12 can include a single emission or multiple emission procedure and can include one or more materials. In other examples, the base frame 12 may be formed via a laminate manufacturing process or another process. Alternatively, the L-shaped bracket 60 can be coupled to the base frame 12. For example, the L-shaped bracket 60 can be fastened or adhered to the base plate 26. Moreover, while the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-6 includes a pair of L-shaped brackets 60, in alternative embodiments, the base frame 12 can include any number of L-shaped brackets 60.

With continued reference to FIGS. 1 through 6, the image holder assembly 14 includes an outer boundary portion 62, a retainer 64, and a cover 66. The outer boundary portion 62 includes side members 68, 70, 72, 74 positioned at the periphery of one of the outer boundary portions 62, thereby forming a boundary line having an opening 76 therebetween. The side members 68, 70, 72, 74 include respective base flanges 78, 80, 82, 84. The side members 68, 70, 72, 74 also include respective upstanding flanges 86, 88, 90, 92 that extend substantially perpendicularly from the respective base flanges 78, 80, 82, 84. Each of the upstanding flanges 86, 88, 90, 92 includes at least one pair of legs 94 coupled to respective inner sides of the upstanding flanges 86, 88, 90, 92. The foot 94 is generally conical and includes a leg leg 96 positioned at its lower end. The foot 94 is designed to be sized (ie, length, width, depth) and positioned such that The leg 94 is fixedly received in the peripheral recess 28 of the leg. As best seen in FIG. 6, when the feet 94 are received in the peripheral peripheral recesses 28, the leg engaging ends 96 are disposed on the clamp receiving surfaces 40, 42, 44, 46 (the clamp receiving surface 40 is shown in FIG. 44) above, thus frictionally contacting to secure the outer boundary portion 62 to the base frame 12. The foot 94 is elastically deformable and may be formed of a material having a suitable modulus of elasticity. Examples may include plastic, aluminum or similar materials. In this manner, a user can simply press the outer boundary portion 62 over the base frame 12 to couple the outer boundary portion 62 to the base frame 12. Likewise, the user can simply depress the legs 94 to decouple the outer boundary portion 62 from the base frame 12, or simply pull the outer boundary portion 62 to decouple from the base frame 12.

Although the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 6 couples the outer boundary portion 62 to the base frame 12 through the legs 94, in an alternative embodiment, the outer boundary portion 62 can be coupled through other coupling members. Such components may include, for example, magnets, other types of male connectors that may be snapped into place when matedly received by one of the female connectors in the base frame 12, may be received by holes or recesses in the base frame 12. To detachably couple the outer boundary portion 62 to any number of posts or pegs of the base frame 12. As can be appreciated from the foregoing, other mechanisms can be used to detachably couple the outer boundary portion 62 to the base frame 12.

Further, the leg 94 and the outer boundary portion 62 may be integral. For example, the foot 94 can be an injection molded portion of a single integrally formed outer boundary portion 62. The injection molding of the outer boundary portion 62 can include a single emission or multiple emission procedure and can include one or more materials. In other examples, the outer boundary portion 62 may be formed via a build-up manufacturing process or another program. Alternatively, the foot 94 can be coupled to the outer boundary portion 62. For example, the feet 94 can be fastened or adhered to the respective inner sides of the upstanding flanges 86, 88, 90, 92. Moreover, while the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 through 6 includes a pair of legs 94 on each inner side of the upstanding flanges 86, 88, 90, 92, in alternative embodiments, the outer boundary portion 62 can comprise any A number of legs 94.

The outer boundary portion 62 can also include a boundary corner extension 97 that extends downwardly relative to the base flanges 78, 80, 82, 84 of the respective side members 68, 70, 72, 74. Boundary angle extension Portion 97 is generally L-shaped and is formed to be closest to where the side members 68, 70, 72, 74 intersect each other. A groove is formed between each of the boundary corner extensions 97 extending downwardly from the boundary corner extensions 97. In this manner, when the outer boundary portion 62 is coupled to the base frame 12, the boundary corner extensions 97 abut the complementary base frame corner extensions 48 and contact the complementary base frame corner extensions 48 to form respective access openings 98. When the outer boundary portion 62 is coupled to the base frame 12, the access opening 98 is advantageously provided to the user for access to the foot 94. The user can simply depress the legs 94 to decouple the outer boundary portion 62 from the base frame 12, as discussed in further detail elsewhere. In addition, the access opening 98 also allows the user to pick up to grip the outer boundary portion 62, for example during removal.

The inside of the upstanding flanges 88, 92 includes respective slit elements 99. The slit elements 99 extend outwardly relative to the inner sides of the respective upstanding flanges 88, 92, thereby forming respective slits 100. Further, the slit member 99 and the outer boundary portion 62 may be integral. For example, the slit element 99 can be an injection molded portion of a single integrally formed outer boundary portion 62. The injection molding of the outer boundary portion 62 can include a single emission or multiple emission procedure and can include one or more materials. In other examples, the outer boundary portion 62 may be formed via a build-up manufacturing process or another program. Alternatively, the slit element 99 can be fastened or adhered to the inside of the upstanding flanges 88, 92. Moreover, in some embodiments, the outer boundary portion 62 can have a recess in the inner side of the upstanding flanges 88, 92 in place of the slit element 99. The recess can be sized to receive a female component of a corresponding male component.

With continued reference to FIGS. 1 through 6, the holder 64 includes a base plate 102 and retainer side members 103, 104, 105, 106 that each extend substantially perpendicular to the base plate 102. The holder side members 103, 104, 105, 106 are positioned at a periphery of the base plate 102, thereby forming a boundary line. The holder 64 is sized (i.e., length, width, depth) such that it can be received by the outer boundary portion 62.

At a substantially central portion of one of the side members 103, 105, the side members 103, 105 have respective groove profiles in which the hook members 107 are positioned. The hook element 107 has a substantially U The profile portion and an angled flange 108 extending outwardly relative to one of the U-shaped portions. The angled flange 108 is generally tapered and oriented to be at an angle to the outer face of the U-shaped portion. This angle can vary at any angle between 91 and 105 degrees. The angle flanges 108 are configured to be received by the respective slits 100. More specifically, as best shown in FIG. 5, the angular orientation and tapering of the angled flanges 108 are configured such that when received in the respective slots 100, it causes a downward force to be applied to the angled flanges 108. This fixes the holder 64 to the outer boundary portion 62. In addition, the downward force causes an upward reaction force at one of the base plates 102. This reaction force advantageously secures an image or other object that can be positioned between the holder 64 and other adjacent structures (i.e., the cover 66). In some embodiments, the respective slits 100 can also be angled to apply pressure to secure an image or other object positioned between the holder 64 and other adjacent structures.

Although the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 6 couples the holder 64 to the outer boundary portion 62 through the hooking member 107, in an alternative embodiment, the holder 64 can be coupled through other coupling members. Such members may include, for example, magnets, other types of male connectors that may be snapped into place when mated by one of the female connectors positioned in the outer boundary portion 62, may be apertured in the outer boundary portion 62 or The recess receives any number of posts or pegs that removably couple the holder 64 to the outer boundary portion 62. As can be appreciated from the foregoing, other mechanisms can be used to detachably couple the holder 64 to the outer boundary portion 62.

Furthermore, the hooking element 107 and the holder 64 can be integral. For example, the hooking element 107 can be an injection molded portion of a single integrally formed retainer 64. The injection molding of the holder 64 can include a single emission or multiple emission procedure and can include one or more materials. In other examples, the holder 64 can be formed via a laminate manufacturing process or another program. Alternatively, the hook element 107 can be coupled to the holder 64. For example, the hook elements 107 can be fastened or adhered to the respective side elements 103, 105. Moreover, while the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-6 includes a pair of hook elements 107, in alternative embodiments, the holder 64 can include any number of hook elements 107. The hook element 107 is elastically deformable and can be formed of a material having a suitable modulus of elasticity. Examples may include plastic, aluminum or similar materials. In this way, a user can simplify The U portion of the hooking element 107 is pressed down to couple the retainer 64 to the outer boundary portion 62 and release the U portion when the angled flange 108 is received by the respective slit 100. Likewise, when the angle flanges 108 are no longer disposed in the respective slots 100, the user can simply depress the U portion of the hook elements 107 and release the U portions to decouple the holder 64 from the outer boundary portion 62.

With continued reference to FIGS. 1 through 6, the cover 66 can be formed from a transparent or translucent material such as transparent plastic, glass to allow the viewer to see through the cover 66. Cover 66 is positioned between retainer 64 and outer boundary portion 62. More specifically, an image or another object is secured between the cover 66 and the holder 64. In this manner, the user can advantageously orient the image in any desired orientation, such as vertical, oblique, horizontal, or other orientation. Moreover, the image or another item can be any suitable size that can be simply secured between the holder 64 and the cover 66.

In use, the user can position the base frame 12 above the suspension structure. Next, the user can position a level (i.e., a bubble or digital level) in the level holder 61 and adjust the base frame 12 until a horizontal orientation is obtained. Next, the user can couple the base frame 12 to the suspension structure via a fastening member. The user can couple the base frame 12 to the suspension structure via fasteners (ie, nails, screws, anchors, etc.), for example, using the first fastener guide 50 and/or the second fastener guide 54.

Before or after coupling the base frame 12 to the suspension structure, the user can position an image or another object between the cover 66 and the holder 64 to orient the image or another item in a desired manner. Next, the user can simply depress the hook element 107 until the hook element 107 is fixedly received by the slit 100 to couple the cover 66 and the retainer 64 with an image fixed therebetween to the outer boundary portion 62. Alternatively, the user can simply press the cover 66 and the retainer 64 with an image fixed therebetween over the outer boundary portion 62, wherein the downward force can elastically deform the hook member 107 until the retainer 64 snaps to the outer boundary Part 62. Next, the user can position the image holder assembly 14 over the base frame 12 and depress the legs 94 until the feet 94 are fixedly disposed over the clamp receiving surfaces 40, 42, 44, 46 to image The holder assembly 14 is coupled to the base frame 12.

Alternatively, the user can simply press the image holder assembly 14 over the base frame 12, with the downward force causing the legs 94 to elastically deform until the image holder assembly 14 snaps into the base frame 12. Thus, the user can simply remove the image holder assembly 14 from the base frame 12 during removal. Next, the user can remove the holder 64 from the outer boundary portion 62 and replace the image (if desired), and then couple the image holder assembly 14 to the base frame 12 in a similar manner.

7 and 8 illustrate a system 200 coupled to a frame assembly 10 of a wall 11 with certain components removed (ie, retainers, covers, fastening members, outer boundary portions, etc.) for clarity. . The frame assemblies 10 are positioned adjacent to each other and abut each other. The frame assembly 10 is coupled to each other with a clamp 110. As best shown in FIGS. 1, 7, and 8, the clamp 110 includes a base flange 112 and a pair of upstanding flanges 114. One of the central portions of the base flange 112 includes a recessed recess 116. The upstanding flanges 114 are substantially perpendicular to the base flange 112 and are substantially parallel to each other. The upstanding flanges 114 are spaced apart and include clamp engagement ends 118 at their respective lower ends.

As best shown in FIG. 8, the upstanding flange 114 is adapted to extend through the clamp peripheral recess 30 adjacent the frame assembly 10, wherein the clamp engagement end 118 is disposed on the clamp receiving surface 40, 42, 44, 46 ( Above the clamp receiving surfaces 40 and 44) is shown in FIG. Thus, the clamp engagement ends 118 are frictionally contacted to secure adjacent and abutting frame assemblies 10 to one another. Further, the upstanding flange 114 can be elastically deformed and can be formed of a material having a suitable modulus of elasticity. Examples may include plastic, aluminum or similar materials. In this manner, a user can simply press the clamps 110 adjacent and adjacent the frame assembly 10 to cause them to be coupled to one another. Likewise, the user can simply remove the clamps 110 to decouple the frame assembly 10 from each other. In this manner, the user can properly align adjacent and adjacent frame assemblies 10 without further measurement, leveling methods, etc., and produce an aesthetically pleasing pattern. Moreover, in some embodiments, the user may also use additional fastening members to couple one or more of the base frames 12 of the frame assembly 10 to the suspension structure.

FIG. 9 illustrates another illustrative embodiment of a system 300 of a frame assembly 10. System 300 The frame assembly 10 is shown coupled to the wall 11 and is displaced by one of the offsets from one of the other. In particular, in an offset system 300 of the frame assembly 10, the clamp 110 allows the legs 94 of the outer boundary portion 62 to extend through the leg recesses 116 to avoid coupling the image holder assembly 14 to The interference of the base frame 12 is as follows.

FIG. 10 illustrates another illustrative embodiment of a system 400 of one of the frame assemblies 10. System 400 depicts one variation in a pattern in which a plurality of frame assemblies 10 are coupled to wall 11 and positioned in an abstract manner to produce an aesthetically pleasing appearance of frame assembly 10. Moreover, as can be appreciated, the illustrated pattern of the frame assembly 10 is a pattern of several patterns that can be formed.

The various embodiments described above can be combined to provide further embodiments. Moreover, the various components described herein can be advantageously provided as a kit. The kit may, for example, comprise: a frame assembly having a base frame, a plurality of fastening members (ie, screws, nails, anchors, etc.); and an image holder assembly having an outer boundary portion, A cover and a holder. In some embodiments, the kit can also include a set of instructions for assembling the frame assembly. The kit can also include a plurality of frame assemblies and connectors for interconnecting the plurality of frame assemblies. The kit can also include a level that can be coupled to the frame assembly. The level can be a digital or bubble type level.

The entire disclosure of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/914,817, filed on Dec. 11, 2013, is hereby incorporated by reference.

In addition, these and other changes can be made to the embodiments in light of the above detailed description. In general, the terms used in the following claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims to the specific embodiments disclosed herein. The full scope of the equivalents included in the scope of application for patents. Therefore, the scope of the patent application is not limited by the disclosure.

10‧‧‧Frame assembly

12‧‧‧Base frame

14‧‧‧Image Holder Assembly

16‧‧‧ recess

18‧‧‧ perimeter wall

20‧‧‧ perimeter wall

22‧‧‧ perimeter wall

24‧‧‧ perimeter wall

26‧‧‧Base plate

28‧‧‧ recessed holes around the feet

30‧‧‧Recessed holes around the fixture

48‧‧‧Base frame corner extension

50‧‧‧First fastener guide

54‧‧‧Second fastener guide

56‧‧‧First guide aperture

58‧‧‧Second guide aperture

60‧‧‧L type bracket

61‧‧‧Level Holder

62‧‧‧External boundary

64‧‧‧Retainer

66‧‧‧ Cover

68‧‧‧ side components

70‧‧‧ side components

72‧‧‧ side components

74‧‧‧ side components

76‧‧‧ openings

78‧‧‧Base flange

80‧‧‧Base flange

82‧‧‧Base flange

84‧‧‧Base flange

86‧‧‧Upright flange

88‧‧‧Upright flange

90‧‧‧Upright flange

92‧‧‧Upright flange

94‧‧‧ feet

96‧‧‧ feet end

97‧‧‧Boundary Corner Extension

99‧‧‧Slit components

100‧‧‧slit

102‧‧‧Base plate

103‧‧‧Retainer side components

104‧‧‧Retainer side components

105‧‧‧Retainer side components

106‧‧‧Retainer side components

107‧‧‧ hook components

108‧‧‧Angle flange

110‧‧‧ fixture

112‧‧‧Base flange

114‧‧‧Upright flange

116‧‧‧Foot hole

H _P ‧‧‧Center horizontal reference plane

Claims (21)

A modular frame assembly coupled to a suspension structure, the modular frame assembly including: a base frame coupled to the suspension structure; and an image holder assembly detachably coupled thereto a base frame, the image holder assembly comprising: an outer boundary portion having a member for detachably coupling to the base frame, the outer boundary portion being detachable without first removing the base frame from the suspension structure a cover; and a holder detachably coupled to the outer boundary portion, the holder and the cover securing an image therebetween. The module frame assembly of claim 1, wherein the base frame comprises a plurality of leg peripheral recesses, and wherein the outer boundary portion comprises a plurality of legs positioned at a periphery thereof, the plurality of legs Decoupledly coupled to the peripheral recesses of the corresponding legs of the plurality of peripheral holes of the legs. The module frame assembly of claim 2, wherein the outer boundary portion includes a side member forming a boundary line around the outer boundary portion, each side member including the plurality of leg peripheral recesses detachably coupled to the base frame At least one of the plurality of legs of the hole corresponding to the peripheral hole of the leg. The modular frame assembly of claim 1, wherein the base frame includes a guide configured to receive a fastening member to couple the base frame to the suspension structure. The module frame assembly of claim 1, wherein the base frame comprises a plurality of guide members having a plurality of guide members extending therethrough for receiving the fastening member to A bottom frame is coupled to the aperture of the suspension structure. The modular frame assembly of claim 1, wherein the base frame includes a level holder coupled to the level holder, the level holder being configured to receive a level. The modular frame assembly of claim 1, wherein the holder comprises at least one pair of integral hooks extending from one of the sides, the hooks being configured to be coupled to one of the outer boundary portions Accept the slit. A frame assembly attachable to a suspension structure, the frame assembly comprising: a base frame coupled to the suspension structure, the base frame having a plurality of peripheral peripheral recesses; and an image holder total Removably coupled to the base frame, the image holder assembly includes: an outer boundary portion including a side member forming a circumference around the outer boundary portion, each side member including detachably coupled to At least one leg corresponding to the peripheral hole of the plurality of leg peripheral recesses; a cover; and a holder comprising at least one pair of integral hooks extending from one side thereof, the cards The hooks are configured to be coupled to one of the outer receiving portions that are positioned at the outer boundary portion, the retainer and the cover securing an image therebetween or the like. A system attachable to a frame assembly of a suspension structure, the system comprising: a plurality of frame assemblies configured to form an array of frame assemblies, each frame assembly comprising: a base frame coupled To the suspension structure; an image holder assembly detachably coupled to the base frame, the image holder assembly comprising: an outer boundary portion; a cover; a holder detachably coupled to the outer boundary portion, the holder and the cover securing an image between them; and a plurality of connectors configured to cause the plurality The frame assemblies are interconnected. A system of frame assemblies of claim 9 wherein each of said plurality of connectors comprises a pair of upstanding flanges spaced apart from each other, each upstanding flange being received in a recess adjacent the periphery of one of the respective frame assemblies. A system of claim frame assembly 9, wherein the plurality of connectors are configured such that the frame assembly array includes at least one frame assembly adjacent at least a portion of an adjacent frame assembly. A system for a frame assembly of claim 9, wherein each of the pair of upstanding flanges includes an engagement end at a lower end thereof, the engagement ends extending around a surface of the respective base frame to cause the plurality of The adjacent frame assemblies of the frame assembly are interconnected. A method of attaching a first frame assembly, the method comprising: coupling a base frame to a suspension structure; and coupling an image holder assembly having an outer boundary portion, a cover and a holder to The base frame. The method of claim 13, wherein coupling the image holder assembly comprises: securing an image between the cover and the holder; and coupling the holder to the outer boundary portion. The method of claim 13, further comprising: positioning a level within the base frame; and adjusting an orientation of the base frame such that the base frame is horizontal relative to a horizontal floor structure. The method of claim 13, wherein coupling the base frame comprises: positioning the base frame over the suspension structure; The base frame is fastened to the suspension structure with at least one of a nail, an anchor or a screw. The method of claim 13, further comprising: coupling the at least one second frame assembly to the first frame assembly. The method of claim 17, wherein coupling the at least the second substrate frame comprises: positioning the second frame assembly adjacent to the first frame assembly; and coupling a connector to the first frame assembly and the The second frame assembly is such that at least a portion of the second frame assembly abuts the first frame assembly. A kit for attaching a frame assembly to a suspension structure, the kit comprising: a frame assembly having: a base frame coupled to the suspension structure; an image holder assembly, Removably coupled to the base frame, the image holder assembly includes: an outer boundary portion having a member for detachably coupling to the base frame; a cover; and a retainer detachably Coupled to the outer boundary portion, the holder and the cover secure an image between them; a plurality of at least one of an anchor, a screw or a staple; and a set of instructions. The kit of claim 19, further comprising: a plurality of frame assemblies; and a plurality of connectors. The kit of claim 19, further comprising: a level that is coupleable to the frame assembly.