CA 02488184 2004-11-23
RUG DISPLAY SYSTEI<1
Christopher A. Kin
Henry R. Kin
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This continuation-in-part application claims the benefit of LT.S. Non-
Provisional Patent Application No. 10/744,289, filed on December 23, 2003,
which is
a continuation-in-part of U.S. Non-Provisional Application No. 10/2G9,~85,
filed
October 11, 2002.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to systems for displaying nags, and more particularly to
rug display systems comprising a plurality of frames rotatably supported on a
display
surface for enabling convenient and full view display of products.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The typical consumer of runs desires to view the entire rug prior to purchase.
With larger sizes of area rugs, display and access to full view inspection is
often space
prohibitive. Rugs may be displayed on a surface stacked on one another.
However,
due to the size and weight of most rugs, the rugs are often difficult to
maneuver, and
thus, do not allow the consumer to conveniently obtain a complete view of the
front
and'back sides of the rug.
Heretofore, it has been known to display rugs with hanging assemblies,
wherein the rugs are supported in hanging relation by a plurality of rotatable
rug
hangers and movable toward and away from each other so as to allow a consumer
to
obtain a view of the rug. More particularly, it has been known to display rugs
with a
cantilevered pivot type system known as the "swing ann." The swing arm
includes a
fabricated bar generally extending the width of the rug and is welded to a
pivot high
above the display floor. The rug is secured to the fabricated bar by clamp-
style clips
so that the rug can hang down toward the floor. The fabricated bars are
themselves
generally pivoted from a relatively large outboard structure mounted to the
floor and
having base members extending in various directions adjacent to the floor to
provide
stability to an overall structure having much of its movement. weight and
stress near
the top, high above the floor. In order to view each nag displayed by such a
swing
CA 02488184 2004-11-23
ann system, the customer tins on the rug, thereby pivoting the fabricated bar
and rua
in one direction to view the next rug in the display.
The present invention recognizes and addresses some of the problems \vitll
SLlCl7 Swlllg allll SfSteIllS. First, tile present invention recognizes that
the swing arm
systems are very large and inherently unstable. The weight of the fabricated
bars
holding the rugs high above the floor requires a relatively large and
obtrusive
superstructure and base, naturally increasing the size, cost, assembly and
space
requirements for such structures. Accordingly, there is a desire for improved
rug
display systems supported on a display surface while utilizing a minimum
amount of
floor space required.
Second, the present invention recognizes that it is difficult to attach and
detach
rugs to the swing aml system as the fabricated bar from which the rugs hang in
swing
arnl systems is located a substantial distance above the floor. Moreover, the
fabricated bar is generally not removable from the outboard structure to allow
a clerk
t0 IllOl117t tl7e rllg l0 tl7e fabricated bar \v1711e 011 the fl0oi'. T17LIS,
1710re than one clerk IS
often needed to balance and raise the rug \vhile securing the rug to the
fabricated bar
high above the floor. Accordingly, there is a desire for rug display systems
providing
a configuration so that a rug can be more easily and conveniently secured to
or
removed from the rug display systems.
2U Also, the present invention recognizes that swing arm systems can allow and
even cause danla~e to the rLms displayed from the systems due, in part, to the
method
of operation and display provided by the swing arm system. For example,
consumers
wishing to view a rug displayed from swing arm systems are required to pull on
the
bottom of the hanging rug in order to rotate the swing ann to see the next rug
in the
display rack. This tugging action puts undue stresses on the nlg and the
attachment
clamps holding the nlg to the swing arnl. Such stress can result in the rug
being
removed from the swim arm and!or damaged as the clan7ps dig into the rug or
the mg
is essentially ripped away from the clamps on the fabricated bar. In addition,
as the
swing arm system does not provide an easily accessible surface to display
pertinent
sales information concerning the nig, vendors must pin or tag (e.g., by
piercing) the
pertinent sales information to the back of the nlg. Often, information pinned
to the
rug can fall off. Moreover, pinning or tagging can damage the rug and/or be
ripped
off of the rug in use. :'~CCOI'd117~1y, there is a desire for rug display
systems that can
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CA 02488184 2004-11-23
display rugs and pertinent advel-tisina infonoation conveniently and without
damaging the rugs.
111 addlt1011, 2iS lllt',iltlOlled, the outboard structure of swing at711
SyStenlS 15
generally very large making it difFcult (physically and technically) to
assemble,
disassemble and ship. Quite often, swing ann systems require skilled
construction
crews and special equipment to deliver and assemble the systems. Accordingly,
there
is a desire for rug display systems with a minimal base structure capable of
being
easily assembled, disassembled and shipped.
SUI\1~IARY OF THE INVENTION
Accordingly, the present invention is intended to address and obviate
problems and shortcomings and otherwise improve previous ntg display systems.
More particularly, it is one object of the present invention to provide rug
display
systems comprising a plurality of frames supported on a display surface which
provides improved and 6111 view access to displayed rugs.
To achieve the foregoing and other objects and in accordance with the
exemplary embodiments of the present invention, rug display systems herein
comprise a base having a plurality of upwardly extending posts and a frame
comprising a front, top and rear section. At least a portion of the frame is
configured
to be rotatably mounted on one of the posts, and a front support member is
attached to
the frame adjacent the front section and configured to movably support the
frame on a
display surface in use.
To still further achieve the foregoing and other objects of the present
invention, improved rug clips for use in the rug display system comprise a
channel-
shaped bracket including a top leg, a bottom leg, and a connecting member. The
connecting member biases the top leg toward the bottom leg.
To further achieve the foregoing and other objects of the present invention,
improved mg clips for use in the rug display system may also comprise a
gripping
member having oppositely disposed gripping elements and a biasing member
having a
first and second top leg. The biasing member may be mounted over at least a
portion
of the gripping member such that one of the first and second top legs is each
biased
toward a different one of the oppositely disposed gripping elements.
To yet further achieve the foregoing and other objects in accordance with
other exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a packaging system for
CA 02488184 2004-11-23
shipping a plurality of rug display system frames comprises a crate having a
frame
cradle positioned along the upper and lower proximate and distal horizontal
edges of
the crate. A plurality of spared recesses is forced in each cradle.
Corresponding
recesses of the frame cradles are positioned on the upper and lower horizontal
edges
of the crate in a predetermined alignment to receive and maintain the
plnratity of
fratneS wlthlll the crate in a predetermined spaced orientation relative to
one another.
To even further achieve the foregoing and other objects in accordance with
additional exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a packaging system
for
shipping an at least partially assembled rug display system having a base and
a
plurality of frames rotatably mounted on the base, comprises a front section
assembly.
The front section assembly includes a first securing member positioned on top
of the
bottom sections of the rug display frames adjacent the front sections and a
second
securing member positioned below the bottom sections of the frames. The bottom
sections of the frames are secured between the first and second securing
members.
The packaging system further comprises a rear section securing member
positioned to
secure the base to at least one of the frames for transportation as a unit.
Still other embodiments, combinations, advantages and objects of the present
invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following
descriptions wherein there are shown and described alternative exemplary
embodiments of this invention for illustration purposes. As wall be realized,
the
invention is capable of other different aspects, objects and the embodiments
all
without departing from the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the drawings,
objects, and description should be regarded as illustrative and exemplary in
nature
only and not as restrictive.
BRIEF DESCR1PT10N OF THE DRA'VINCS
While the specification concludes with claims particularly pointing out and
distinctly claiming the present invention, it is believed that the same will
be better
understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an exemplary ntg display system
according to the present iw°ention with all but one of the frames
omitted for the
purpose of clarity, and illustrating a frame mounted to a base;
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CA 02488184 2004-11-23
FIG. 2 is a close-up perspective view of an exemplary base of the present
mvenuon;
FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of a partially assembled (i.e.. no ruy
frames
shown) exemplary mg display system according to the present invention
illustratiny~
multiple accessories contemplated by the present invention;
FIG. 4 is a front elevational view of an alters native embodiment of a frame
of
the present invention;
FIG. 5 is a partial bottom plan view of an exemplary front support member
and front support member bumper of the present invention;
I O FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an exemplary rug display system made in
accordance with the present invention;
FIG. 7 is a rear bottom perspective view of an exemplary rug clip for use in a
rug display system in accordance with the present invention;
FIG. 8 is a rear side perspective view of the rug clip of FIG. 7;
l~ FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of an exemplary frame according to the
present invention illustrating a plurality of rug hangers positioned on the
frame for
facilitating hanging a rug thereon;
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an exemplary packaging system for shipping
a plurality of rug display system frames in accordance w-ith the present
invention;
20 FIG. I 1 a is a partially broken out perspective view of an exemplary
packaging
system for shipping rug display systems in accordance with the present
invention;
FIG. 1 lb is an exploded view of the front section assembly of the exemplary
packaging system illustrated in FIG. 1 I a;
FIG. 1 lc is an exploded view of the rear section assembly of the exemplary
25 packaging system illustrated in FIG. l la;
FIG. 12 is an exploded view of an alternative embodiment of a rug clip made
in accordance with the present invention;
CA 02488184 2004-11-23
FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the rug clip of FIG. 12;
FIG. 14 is an exploded view of an alternative embodiment of a rug clip made
in accordance with the present invention; and
FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the rug clip of FIG. 14.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF E~E1~1PLARl' E)\1BODT11IENTS
Referring to the drawing figures in detail, wherein like numerals indicate the
same elements throughout the drawing figures, FIG. 1 illustrates a rug display
system
20 with a single frame 32 mounted to a base 40. In this example, the frame 32
is
generally rectangular in shape and comprises a top section 36 connected to a
front
section 34 and a rear section 38. In another embodiment, the frame 32 might be
configured in any variety of shapes including, but IlOt limited to a square.
The fratlle
32 may be sized according to the size of the rugs intended to be displayed.
Any shape
which can be pivoted on a base 40 and supported with a front support member 52
(e.g., wheel 54), can be provided as appropriate. For example, the frame may
be sized
approximately 9' x 12' to display full size rugs, or approximately 6' x 9' or
~' x 8' to
display basic rugs, approximately 4' x 6' to display throw rugs, 2' x 4' to
display
scatter rugs and/or 2' x 8' to display runner rubs.
Moreover, as a result of the spaced relationship between adjacently mounted
frames, a rug can be mounted to a frame narrower than the nag with the excess
width
of the mg fitting between the rear sections of adjacent frames between
adjacent posts
48. As will be understood, the pivoting of adjacent frames on spaced posts 48
explained further below allows portions of supported rugs to extend rearwardiy
through gaps between adjacent posts without interference in use. This
facilitates even
more leeway to the retailer on rug size variations, and simplifies rug display
and
2~ system maintenance. Furthermore, the frames 32 may comprise a plurality of
shapes
to display round, oval or odd shaped rugs as well. As the rear section (e.g.,
38) of a
frame 32 may be configured to mount to a post 48 of a base 40 regardless of
the shape
or size of the frame, it is possible to provide a rug display system 20 with a
plurality
of frames 32 in a variety of shapes and sizes.
As further described below, the frame 32 can be advantageously provided in
the forn~ of a unified structure comprising various pieces of steel t11b111g
and steel
posts welded or otherwise secured together. For example, if desired, the Ii-
ame 32
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CA 02488184 2004-11-23
may be constructed of various pieces of steel, plastic, aluminum, composite or
other
sturdy tubing and posts fastened together by any conventional fastening means
so that
the display system 20 can be broken down for transportation or storage.
In one embodiment, the front section 34 and rear section 38 nnght be provided
~ in the forni of I S gauge powder coated steel tubing. In addition, the top
section 3G
might be comprised of 1 1 gauge powder coated steel post. In another
e111bOd1117e111,
the front section 34, top section 36 and rear section 38 may be comprised of
any
combination of posts and/or tubing constructed from any combination of steel,
plastic,
composite, aluminum and/or any other appropriately strong and durable
substance.
In FIG. I, the front section 34 of the exemplary frame 32 is shown as
including a front support member ~2 positioned adjacent the bottom portion of
the
front section 3=1. In another cmbodiinent, a bottom section (e.g., see section
131 of
FIG. 4) may be mounted between the rear section 38 and the front section 34
and
provide for attachment of the front support member 52 thereto. Other cross-
members
or supports could also be provided to frame 32 to augment its rigidity and
strength as
deemed appropriate.
In the examples illustrated, the front support member 52 comprises a front
support member roller or wheel 54, an axle (see axle 140 in FIG. S) and
bracket
assembly (not shown) for mounting the front support member arrangement
adjacent to
the front section 34 of the frame 32. This assembly could be provided as a
relatively
standard caster arrangement commonly available in the industry. In another
embodiment, the front support member 52 may include a roller ball or other low
friction moving support arrangement extending from the bottom of frame 32 and
configured to moveably support the front section 34 of the frame 32 Oll a
display
surface. In still another embodiment, the front support member 52 may include
a
plastic (e.g., Teflon) or fiberglass body or other such friction minimizing
interface
affixed to the bottom of frame 32 (e.g., adjacent to the front section 34) and
configured to moveably support the front section 34 of the frame 32 on a
display
surface. As an example, a front support member wheel 54 might be constructed
of
hard polyolefin in order to withstand wear from rigid surfaces. In another
embodiment, the front support member 52 may be constructed from any material
suited for support of the weight of the frame and displayed rugs and smooth
rotation
about a display surface.
CA 02488184 2004-11-23
Still referring to FIG. 1, the top sectioil 36 of the exemplary frame 32
includes
a first set of rug clips 60 mounted to the frame 32. .As discussed later, the
rug clips 60
are configured to secure a rug to the frame 3? of the rug display system 2U.
lfdesired.
a second set of rug clips (e.g., 60a) can be mounted to the opposite side
(back side) of
the top section 38 so that rugs nlav be secured and displayed on the opposite
side of
the frame 32. As described later, the rug clips 60 and 60a may be mounted at
any
position along frame 32 depending on the size and shape of the rug and/or
vendor
preferences.
Referring more specifically to FIG. 2, an expanded view of an exemplary base
40 of FIG. 1 is illustrated. The rear section 38 of the frame 32 is to be
mounted onto a
post 48 extendin~~ upwardly from the base 40. In one embodiment, the base 40
comprises a lower base plate 42, an upper base plate 44 and a plurality of
posts 48,
The lower base plate 42 and upper base plate 44 might be generally elongated,
flat
sheets of steel. In one embodiment, the posts 48 might be welded to the lower
base
plate 42. The upper base plate 44 may include a plurality of apertures
correspondin~~
to the posts 48 that are welded to the lower base plate 42. The plurality of
posts 48
engage the plurality of apertures on the upper base plate 44 thereby allowing
the
upper base plate 44 to be positioned in a spaced relationship to the lower
base plate
42. In one embodiment, the upper base plate 44 might be positioned
approximately
2" from the lower base plate 42 leaving about 16" of post 48 above the upper
base
plate 44 for mounting of a frame 32 thereto
Once the upper base plate 44 is at its desired position, it is then welded to
the
plurality of posts 48. While upper base plate 44 may be optional, it can
advantageously help keep the adjacent posts 48 straight and appropriately
spaced. can
add to the strength and rigidity of base 40 and posts 48, and can facilitate
fabrication
(e.g., welding) of the posts 48 onto base plate 42. For example, it might be
preferred
to weld the posts 48 to base plates 42 and 44 in the space between the plates
so that
the bottom of plate 42 (which will face the display surface or floor) and the
top of
plate 44 (which will be closest to the rotating parts of frame 32) can be kept
smooth
and clear of weld spatter and the like.
In one exemplary embodiment, posts 48 might be configured so that a frame
32 can be rotatably mounted on any one of such posts, as desired. For example,
rear
section 38 can be provided in the form of a tube, or otherwise comprise a
substantially
hollow portion at its lower end. The inner diameter of the hollow portion of
rear
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CA 02488184 2004-11-23
section 38 might correspond with and be slightly greater than the outer
diameter of the
posts 48 of the base 40. The difference between the inner diameter of the
frame 32
and the outer diameter of the posts 48 might be such that the friction between
the rear
section 38 of the frame 32 and the posts 48 is minimized to allow the frame 32
to be
S supported by and rotated about the posts 48 without much effort. For
example, the
inner diameter of the rear section 38 of the frame may be 1 1/2 in., whereas
the outer
diameter of the post 48 may be 1 1/4 in. Thus, in such embodiment, the rear
section
38 of the frame 32 can rotatably fit over the post 48 of the base 40.
Grease or another conventional lubricant may be placed either on the posts 48
or within the bottom portion of the rear section 38 of the frame 32 in order
to achieve
desired friction between the rear section 38 of the frame 32 and the posts 48.
In
another embodiment, any arrangement of bushings/ball bearings might be
effectively
located adjacent the interface of the rear section 38 of the frame 32 and the
post 48 to
facilitate desired rotation of the frame 32 relative to the post 48.
1S The upper base plate 44 also provides a resting or support surface on base
40
for the frame 32. In addition, the upper base plate 44 adds strength to the
base 40 as
the posts 48 are rigidified with each other and base plates 42 and 44, and
spacing and
upright orientation of posts 48 is further rigidly fixed. As previously
stated, in one
embodiment, the distance between the lower base plate 42 and the upper base
plate 44
in an exemplary rug display arrangement might be approximately 2", but could
be
easily adapted according to a desired application, post sizing and spacing,
weight of
articles to be displayed, materials used, and other variables. For example,
the height
of upper base plate 44 can advantageously correspond the pivot height of rear
section
38 on base 40 with the height of front support member S2 (e.g., a caster wheel
or
2S other movable support arrangement). If the upper base plate 44 is absent,
more
attention to clean attachment of posts 48 to plate 42 might be required, as
the pivot
support surface would be plate 42. In another embodiment, additional upper
base
plates 44 can be added to further strengtlien the base 40.
Still refen-ing to FIG. 2, the lower base plate 42 may include a plurality of
apertures 46 configured to accept a fastener for securing the base 40 to a
horizontal
display surface (e.g., a concrete floor). The base 40 may be secured to a
horizontal
display surface by any conventional screw or bolt, including, but not limited
to, lag
screws, anchor bolts or power driven fasteners. Access to the apertures 46 of
the
lower base plate 42 with a drill, tools or fasteners may be made more
convenient by
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CA 02488184 2004-11-23
providing access cutouts 47. The cutouts 47 may comprise a semi-circle cut
into a
portion of the upper base plate 44 and may be positioned over and slightly
larger than
the apertures 4G in the lower base plate 42. While the base 40 in the
exemplary
embodiment of FIG. G can be secured to a display surface, it is understood
that the
base 40 may stand alone on a surface without being secured to the display
surface.
Such an arrangement might be desired where the display is to be mobile or
otherwise
easily moveable within a display area.
The embodiment of FIG. 2 illustrates an elongated base 40 with sixteen posts
48 arranged in a line extending the length of the lower base plate 42 and
upper base
plate 44. It is possible that the layout of the display surface may require a
rug display
system 20 configured to fit within certain space requirements. Accordingly, in
another embodiment, the base may comprise more or less than sixteen vertically
extending posts 48, and therefore, have more or less than sixteen frames 32.
In
addition, as discussed later, the base 40 may comprise two rows of posts 48
arranged
in two lines extending the length of the base 40 so that a number of
accessories may
be mounted to the base 40. The posts of such two row embodiments may be
staggered or aligned, and/or may have variable spacings relative to adjacent
posts, as
desired. Moreover, the arrangement of posts 48 on base plate 42 need not be in
a
straight line, as arcuate or angular arrangement may be desired for some
applications.
Also, the base may comprise a variety of shapes including, but not limited to
linear, a
semi-circle, a frill circle, an L-shape, a 45° angle, etc. Such
arrangements can be
achieved by manipul,Uing the shapes of the lower and upper base plates 42 and
44. In
addition, the appearance of the rug display system 20 may be manipulated by
welding
the plurality of posts 48 to the lower base plate 42 in a staggered
arrangement and
providing an appropriate upper base plate 44 accordingly.
Also, it should be understood that while FIG. 2 illustrates a single exemplary
base, a plurality of bases may be locked, welded or otherwise connected
together (e. ~.
FIG. 3), either temporarily or permanently, to form a unified base capable of
supporting any number of frames 32 in a variety of arrangements. Because the
system of the present invention is also modular in nature, it is contemplated
that
frames can be used on various bases, bases can be easily arranged in a display
layout
(e.g., substantially straight line, U-shaped, L-shaped, circular, etc.), and
the setup and
function of the f1'a177eS alld baSeS Can be mixed and matched to accommodate a
wide
variety of display i;eeds.
CA 02488184 2004-11-23
Another feature of the present invention is that a variety of accessories can
also be selectively mounted to the base 40 of the rug display system.
Referring to
FIG. 3, for example. three e~emplarv accessories, namely an accessory display
assembly 90, a light poly J8 and a spacer or divider 100, are shown mounted to
a base
140. The base 140 in this example might be comprised of forty-eight posts 148
arranged in a line extending the length of the base 140. However, as
previously
discussed, the base 140 may comprise a variety of shapes and sizes. In
addition, the
base 140 may comprise two rows with any number posts 148 arranged in two lines
extending the length of the base 140, wherein one row may be used for mounting
frames and the other row may be used for mounting accessories.
An example of an accessory display assembly 90 is shown as including two
vertically extending poles 92, two extension anus 94 and a mounting bar 96.
Alternatively, and discussed, the accessory display assembly may be comprised
simply of a single pole 92 with one or more of a plurality of accessories
secured
thereto. Each pole 92 can be mounted to a post 148 of the base 140 in the same
manner as the rear section of the frame described above. Poles 92 might be
provided,
for example, in the form of I8 gauge powder coated steel tubing or any other
appropriately strong and durable materials. The poles 92 may extend upwardly
from
the base 140 any length including, but not limited to, the height of the rear
section of a
frame, depending on the application and the particular function of the desired
accessories.
The extension arms 94 may similarly be comprised of powder coated steel
tube and post, or any other appropriately strong and durable substance. The
tube and
post may be secured together by welding or otherwise securely fastening the
tube and
post to a steel plate 93 configured to set the steel post at about a
135° angle relative to
the steel tube. The tubular portion of the extension arm 94 may be sized with
a
smaller diameter thall the diameter of the pole 92 so that each extension ann
94 can be
telescopingly mounted to a pole 92 by inserting the tubular portion of the
extension
arm 94 into the upper end of the pole 92, such as in an overlapping friction
fit
arrangement know as a "swedge". The post portion of the extension arm 94 may
comprise a bracket 95 welded to the distal end of the post and sized and
shaped for
securing a mounting bar 96 thereto. The mounting bar 96 may be comprised of
powder steel coated steel tilbillg alld may be secured to the bracket 95 of
the tube
CA 02488184 2004-11-23
portion of the extension an n 94 by any conventional fasting means including,
but not
limited to metal screws.
iVIOtltltltla bar 96 can be utilized to support any number of accessories
including, for example, tights, banners, speakers and video/security cameras.
FIG. s
illustrates an example where banner 97 is mounted to the mounting bar 96 of
the
accessory display assembly by sliding the mounting bar 96 through a pocket
located
on the rear of the banner 97, and then securing the ends of the IIlOlllltlt7~
bar 96 to the
brackets 9~ of the a\t~llsi017 al'illS 94. The banner 97 may be used to
display
decorations, pertinent advertising or sales information.
It is understood that the accessory display assembly 90 of the present
invention may comprise any combination of tubes or posts comprised of steel,
plastic,
composite, aluminum and/or any other appropriately strong and durable
substance.
Moreover, while the accessory display assembly 90 illustrated in FIG. 3 may be
comprised of modular components secured together, it is contemplated that the
1 ~ accessory display assembly 90 may similarly be comprised of any
components)
capable of mounting to a base of the present invention and displaying an
accessory
therefrom, including but not limited to a single pole.
For example, FIG. 3 illustrates a light pole 98 comprising a standard pole 92
(described above) mounted to the base 140 at its proximal end and including a
light
?U 99 secured adjacent to tl~e opposite or distal end. The light 99~nay be
used to
illuminate the rugs displayed by the rug display system, a banner on the
mounting bar
or the display area generally. In addition, any number of accessories may be
secured
directly to one pole 92 at any position along the pole 92 including, but not
limited to a
banner, speaker, security camera, ete. If desired, rotation of a single pole
about the
25 post 148 of the base 140 may be prevented by providing a plate with an
aperture (not
shown) welded or otherwise secured to the pole 92. It is envisioned that as
the pole 92
is mounted to the post 48, such a plate might include a flange or other
portion which
mounts over the adjacent post 148 and slides down adjacent the upper base
plate 144
or otherwise corresponds with a portion of an adjacent post 148. Therefore,
the plate
30 would function to substantially prevent the pole 92 from rotating about the
post 148.
Any number of arrangements could similarly be implemented to prevent
substantial
rotation, such as a set screw or friction fit.
FIG. 3 also illustrates a divider 100 positioned near the middle of the base
140.
The divider 100 may be comprised of a generally U-shaped sheet of metal with
two
12
CA 02488184 2004-11-23
sleeves 101 (best seen in FIG. 11 ) located on backside of the metal adjacent
the
bottom of the divider 100. The two sleeves 101 slide over the base posts 148
to secure
the divider 100 in upright position. It should be understood that the divider
100 may
comprise a variety of shapes and sizes and may be secured to any number of
base
posts 148 by any conventional means. The divider 100 may be used to separate
or
space the rug display system into two or more viewing stations to enable more
than
one consumer to 51111L11tal1eOLlSly view displayed rugs . Absent the divider
100, it may
be difficult for two or more consumers to view rugs displayed on a single base
section
of the rug display system as the consumers might be shifting frames in
competing
directions. In addition, the divider 100 may be used to display pertinent
advertising or
sales information regarding the rugs displayed by the rug display system. As
described above, due to the novel design of the present lllve11t1011, the rug
display
system is widely adaptable. easily modified, and capable of displaying any
combination of rugs and accessories therefrom.
As previously described, FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a
simple frame 32 structure in accordance with the present invention. However,
frames
for the mg display system of the present invention may be customized or
otherwise
adapted in accordance with vendor preferences. For example, frames may be
sized or
shaped according to the size and/or shape of rugs intended to be displayed.
Moreover,
the ~fi-ames may Optlollally incol-porate a number of features and accessories
including,
but not limited to those illustrated in the example of FIG. 4 discussed below.
Referring to FIG. 4, an alternate epbodiment of the frame 132 of FIG. 1 is
shown and illustrated. In this example, the frame 132 is generally rectangular
in
overall shape, and comprises a front section 134, a top section 136, a rear
section
138, a bottom section I 31, as well as a crossbar 133. As previously stated,
the frame
132 can be provided in a unified structure comprising various pieces of steel
tubing
and steel posts welded or otherwise secured together. In one embodiment, the
front
section 134 and rear section 138 might be provided in the form of powder
coated steel
tubing (e.g., 18 gauge), while the top section 136, bottom section 131 and
crossbar
133 might be comprised of slightly lighter (e.g., 11 gauge) powder coated
steel post.
It might be desired to provide the front and!or rear sections as round tubes,
while the
other members might be more rectangular in shape to maximize their effective
thickness profile. In other embodiments, the front section 134, top section
136. rear
section 138, bottom section 131 and crossbar 133 may be comprised of aljy
13
CA 02488184 2004-11-23
combination of posts and/or tubin~~ constructed from any combination of steel,
plastic,
composite, aluminum and/or any other appropriately strong and durable
substance.
In addition, where larger frames 132 are desired (i.e. the vendor desires
display of large, heavy rugs) and the weight of the frames increases, it is
contemplated
that the frames 132 may be provided in the form of two or more pieces for
convenient
shipping and assembly. For example, in FIG. 4, the exemplary frame 132 may
comprise an upper section 133a al7d a lower section 133b conf gored to be
telescopically secured to one another in assembled condition. More
particularly.
swedged tubes 139 with diameters less than the diameters of the rear section
138 and
the front section 134 of the frame 132 may be fitted within the rear section
138 and
the front section I34 of the lower section 133b and/or welded thereto. The
swedged
tubes 139 may extend from the rear section 138 and the front section 134 of
the lower
section 133b any dlStallCe IleCesSal'y lOr Stab111Zed mounting of the upper
section 133a
thereto. The rear section 138 and the front section 134 of the upper section
133a,
having a diameter greater than the diameter of the swedged tubes I39 can be
removably secured to the swedged tubes 139. In another embodiment, the swedged
tubes 139 may be fitted within the rear section 138 and the front section 134
of the
upper section 133a and/or welded thereto. Such a frame 132 can be easily
assembled
by placing the base =10 on a display surface, mounting the lower section 133b
to the
post 48 of the base, and then mounting the upper section 133a-of the frame 132
to the
swedged tubes 139 of the lower section 133a of the frame 132.
Still referring to FIG. 4, the front section 134 of the exemplary frame 132
includes a display sleeve 144 selectively mounted to the frame 132 such as be
screw
or fastener attachment. The display sleeve l44 is configured to hold
brochures, sales
information and other advertising material relating to a particular rug or
numerous
rugs displayed. The display sleeve 144 can be made of any sturdy material such
as
plastic or steel, and one or more sleeves 144 can be mounted at any location
along the
front section 134 of the frame 132. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the display
sleeve 144
may be comprised of a U'-shaped sleeve 144a that may slide onto the front
section 1 34
of the frame 132. The display sleeve 144 may be secured to the front section
by
placing a sleeve cap 144b on the end of the U-shaped sleeve 144a and inserting
a bolt
(not shown) through holes in the cap 144b, the U-shaped sleeve 144a and front
section 134 of the frame 132, and then screwing a nut (not shown) to the end
of the
bolt. The display sleeve 144 itself might include a pocket for receiving an
information
I4
CA 02488184 2004-11-23
card, advertisement or the like. It is contemplated that such a display sleeve
144 1111'111
be formed to include peripheral gutters or tabs to hold information cards in
place
while allowing substantial visual access and easy chan~eout of the cards by
store
workers. Of course, the display sleeve 144 may comprise a variety of shapes
and
sizes.
In one embodiment. the display sleeve 144 may be interchangeable with a
variety of other display sleeves 144 including, but not limited to double-
sided display
sleeves 144 which effectively wrap around front section 134 so as to allow
different
literature (if desired) to be placed on the front side or backside of the
display frame.
The display sleeve 144 provides the vendor an alternative to ptnnlng or othet-
wise
attaching pertinent advertising information directly to the ntgs.
The front section 134 of the exemplary frame 132 may also include one or
more grips or handles 146 for customers to grab in order to pivot the frame
132 from
one position to another. The grip 146 can be positioned at any location along
the
front section 134 of the frame 132 and can be made of a variety of materials
including, but not limited to, plastic, rubber, foam, etc. Such grip 146 can
also provide
a visual cue to customers as to the most efficient place to manipulate the
frame in use.
The front section 134 of the exemplary frame 132 may also include a bumper
148. In one exemplary embodiment, the bumper comprises a bumper wheel or
roller
150 rotatably secured adjacent to the front section 134 of the frame 132, such
as by a
fastener 1 ~2. In use, an example bumper 148 might comprise a v~heel 1 ~0
about 3" in
diameter and constructed of rubber. The fastener 152 may be a pin, a screw or
any
other conventional fastening device which allows free rotation of the bumper
wheel in
use. In another embodiment, the bumper 148 might comprise a piece of plastic,
rubber or any other conventional friction-minimizing interface mounted
adjacent to
the top of the frame 132. In use, the diameter of a rotating bumper 148 should
normally be greater than the width of the members or tubes making up the front
section 134, top section 136, rear section 138, bottom section 131 and
crossbar I33 to
minimize interference of two frames during rotational display.
The provision of a bumper or similar arrangement serves multiple functions.
First, such a bumper (e.g., 148) can prevent the components of adjacent frames
(e.g.
clips 60) from interfering contact with one another as adjacent frames are
rotated on a
base in use. For example, in one embodiment, when at least two adjacent frames
132
are simultaneously moved, the individual frames would normally contact one
another.
1~
CA 02488184 2004-11-23
In such a case, it will be understood that respective bumpers of adjacent
frames will
contact one another and prevent other components (such as the hanger clips) of
adjacent frames from contacting and/or interfering with one another. Of
course,
where the hanger clips are flush with the frame (e.g. see, FIGS. 12 and 13
discusseil
~ below), the bumper 148 may not be needed because the hanger clips would trot
interfere with one another in normal and proper operation.
In addition, if the bumper is a wheel or other effectively low friction
arrangement, as respective bumpers 148 come into contact, they rotate or
othenvise
help smoothly guide both frames past one another throughout their pivot. In
another
embodiment, a plurality of bumper wheels 150 may be disposed in the top
section 136
of each frame l32 to smoothly truide a plurality of frames 132 throughout
their pivot.
Any bumper or spacin~;~ arrangement to ensure that adjacent frames do not
catch or
"hang up" on one another during rotation could be utilized.
As illustrated in FIG. 3, the rear section 138 of the exemplary frame 32 is
illustrated as being pivotally mounted to a post 48 extending upwardly from
the base
40. As previously described, the rear section 138 can be provided with a
hollow
lower portion ha\'lll'~ all Illnel' diameter corresponding with, but slightly
larger than
the outer diameter of the post 48 so that the rear section can be rotatably
mounted to
the post 48 of the base 40. Furthermore, the rear section 138 may include a
rotation
bushing or protector 1 ~5 adjacent the bottom of section 138 which might slide
over
the post 48 of the base 40 and rest on the upper base plate 44 of the base 40.
Protector
155 can be used to conceal the point of rotation between the rear section 138
of the
frame 132 and the posts 48 of the base 40 to protect against pinching of the
fingers,
rug snags, etc. This protector 155 might also add strength to the lower
portions of
rear section 138 and/or serve as a wear bushing to the area of rotation of
frame 132 on
a post 48 of the base 40. In one embodiment, the protector 15~ may comprise a
generally flat washer welded to the bottom of the rear section 138. In another
embodiment, this protector or bushing arrangement may include a bearing to aid
the
rear section 138 of the frame 132 in rotation about the post 48 of the base
40.
A ground wire 160 may be used to positively connect the rear section 138 of
the frame 132 to provide an electrical ground arrangement so as to reduce the
potential build-up of static electricity as the frame 132 pivots on base 40
and front
support member 152 movably slides across the display surface. Generally, if
steel
16
CA 02488184 2004-11-23
tllblllg is utilized for the frame, base posts and base, such a ground wire
may be
superfluous.
One or snore crossbars 133 may be mounted to the frame 32 depending on the
number and size of rugs that a vendor wishes to display. The crossbar 1~3 can
serve
~ multiple functions. First, the crossbar may provide additional support for
the frame
and for rugs extending the length of the frame 132. For example, if a customer
pivots
the frame of FIG. 3 quickly to the left, a rug extending the length of the
frame 132
may tend to swing through and out the back of the frame 132 if a crossbar 133
is not
present. In addition, as illustrated in FIG. 4, the crossbar 133 may include a
plurality
of crossbar clips GOc for mounting additional ntgs. For example, a first rug
may be
mounted to the top section 136 of the frame 132 and extend down toward the
crossbar
133 and a second nlg may be mounted to the crossbar 133 and extend down toward
the bottom section 131. Therefore, it is envisioned that the rug display
system of the
present invention is capable of displaying one or more rugs of a variety of
shapes and
1 ~ sizes.
The bottom section 131 of the exemplary frame 132 may include a front
support member 1 ~? mounted thereto. It is understood that multiple support
members
1 ~2 can also be utilized with a frame of the present invention. As seen in
FIG. 5, the
support member 152 might comprise a support member roller or wheel 154 and an
axle 140. This assembly could be provided on a relatively standard caster
arrangement commonly available in the industry. In another embodiment, a
support
member 152 may include a roller ball arrangement extending from the bottom of
the
front section 134 or bottom section 131 and configured to moveably support the
frame
132 on a display surface (e.g., floor). In still another embodiment, the
support
member 152 may include a plastic (e.g., Teflon) or f berglass body or other
such
friction minimizing interface affixed to the bottom of the front section 134
or bottom
section 131 and configured to moveably support the frame 132 on a display
surface.
As an example. the fl'011t Stlpl701't member wheel 154 might be constructed of
hard
polyolefin in order to withstand wear from rigid surfaces. The support member
152
may be constmcted from any material suited for support of the weight of the
frame
and displayed rugs and smooth rotation about a display surface. If more than
one
support member is used, they can be spaced along the bottom of a frame as
desired to
appropriately movably support the weight of the frame and any attached rugs or
the
like on the display surface.
17
CA 02488184 2004-11-23
As best seen in FIG. 5, the front support member 152 may similarly include a
deflector cover or guard 135 located adjacent the bottom of frame 132. Such a
cover
could be located near the bottom of the front section (e.g., 134), mar the
front of the
bOtt0111 SeCt10t1 (e.g., 131 ) or along the underside 131 a of the bottom
section 131 of
~ frame 132, and might advantageously effectively surround at least a portion
of the
front support member 1~2 as illustrated in FIG. 5. The deflector 13~ serves a
similar
purpose as the bumper discussed above in that it can help minimize
interference
between adjacent frames during rotation. However, where a wheel, roller,
caster or the
like is utilized in the front support member (e.g., 152), deflector 135 may
also be
configured and located so as to ensure that such support member is
substantially free
of obstructions which might prevent its free rotation or pivoting. As can be
understood, interference with movement, rotation or direction change of such
front
support member 152 could encumber the movement of a frame and/or make pivoting
of the frame by a user less convenient and more difficult.
Referring to FIG. 6, an exemplary rug display system 220 for displaying a
variety of ru'Ts on a display surface is shown and illustrated in use. The rug
dlspla;'
system 220 of F1G. 1 is illustrated as comprising a plurality of frames 232
mounted to
a base 40. In addition, each one of the plurality of frames 232 includes a
front support
member 252 to moveably support each one of the plurality of frames 232 on a
display
surface 70 such as a showroom floor. As the plurality of frames 232 are
supported on
the display surface 70 by the base 40 and by the front support member 2~2, it
will be
understood that a Ureat degree of stability is achieved by the rug display
system 220
of the present invention. Particularly, the weight of each frame 232 and rugs
110
carried by that frame is supported by the base 40 and front support member 252
on the
display floor. In contrast to swing arm and other previously available display
systems
which had significant weight and structure located high above the floor, the
combination of the frame with its support base (e.g. 40) and appropriate front
support
member (e.j. 2~2) of the present invention allow for the weight of the system
and its
displayed products to be kept low and supported directly on the display
surface.
As mentioned, the nags 110 displayed by the nag display system 220 can be of
various sizes and shapes, and are secured to the frames 232 by a plurality of
rug clips
60. For example, in FIG. 6, two rugs 110a and 1 l Ob are shown as being
secured to a
single frame 232. A first rug 1 l0a is mounted to the top section 236 of the
frame 232
18
CA 02488184 2004-11-23
and extends toward the crossbar section 233. A second rug 1 lOb is mounted to
the
crossbar section 233 and extends to the bottom section 231 of the frame 232.
A customer may view the rugs) 110 on each frame 232 by pushing or pulling
on the front section 23-4 0l' each frame 232, thereby p14'Otlllg a fl'a111e
232 on base 40
so that the customer can easily move from sample to sample without having to
pull on
the displayed rugs themselves. As envisioned herein, the frames 232 of the
present
invention are capable of rotating up to about 180° relative to the base
40 in an open-
book arrangement to provide a customer with a full view of rugs displayed by
the rug
display system 220. In this way, the display assembly of the present invention
uniquely maximizes ruv viewing area for the allotted display area of the
showroom.
Referring to FIGS. 7-8 (and 12-13), examples of individual rug clips 60 (and
1G0) which might be used in the rug display system 20 are shown and
illustrated. As
illustrated in FIGS. 7-8, in one embodiment, the clip GO might be provided as
a single
piece of spring steel having a normally closed bias designed in. In such
embodiment,
the rug clip GO may be formed by bending a single piece of spring steel into
the
general shape of the clip, heat treating the clip and then post-hitting the
clip with
appropriate compression force in order to preload (create bias). It is
understood
however, that the rug clip 60 may be constructed from more than one piece of
material (e.g., steel) welded or otherwise secured together to form a clip
mechanism
for securing a rug (e.g. FIG. 12).
In FIG. 7, an exemplary rug clip 60 is illustrated as comprising a channel
shaped bracket including a top leg 62, a bottom leg 64 and a connecting member
66.
The connecting member 66 can be configured and bent so as to bias the top leg
62
toward the bottom leg 64 in order to securely hold a rug. In addition, the
bottom
portion of the bottom leg 64 may include a plurality of teeth 68 for gripping
a nlg
when the mg is inserted into the rug clip G0. Referring briefly to FIG. 8, a
rear
perspective view of the ru<~ clip GO illustrates a plurality of upwardly
angled teeth 68.
As best seen in FIG. 8, the bottom portion of the bottom leg 64 comprises four
spaced
teeth 68 in this example. However, it is understood that the bottom leg 64 of
the rug
clip 60 could alternatively comprise any number of teeth, sel-rations or other
gripping
elements 68 as required to mount and hold a rug to a frame. In the exemplary
embodiments of FIGS. 7-8, the plurality of teeth G8 are biased against the
inside
surface of top leg 62 and form an acute angle a with the bottom leg 6-I.
19
CA 02488184 2004-11-23
Referring again to FIG. 7, bottom leg 64 of the rug clip 60 may Include two
bottom leg apertures 80a and 80b configured to accept fasteners (e.g., bolts
or screws)
for mounting the ru; clip 60 to a frame. Additionally, the top leg 62 may
include one
or more access apertures to facilitate placement and manipulation of the
fasteners. In
one embodiment, the apertures 82a and 82b would be larger in diameter than the
apertures 80a and 80b so that the fasteners that connect the bottom leg 64 of
the rug
clip 60 to a frame may be accessed for tightening and/or loosening by a
standard tool
such as a screwdriver, socket or driver. In another embodiment, the apertures
in the
bottom leg 64 may be lamer than those in the top leg 62 so that the rug clip
60 can be
mounted to a frame in reverse, orientation (i.e., with the gripping teeth or
serrations
directed inwardly).
In one embodiment, the rug clip 60 is mounted to the frame by placing the
bottom leg 64 of the rug clip 60 against a frame and aligning the bottom leg
apertures
80a and 80b with predrilled holes in the frame. Once aligned, a fastener may
be
1 S inserted thl'Otlgh the upper top le;~ aperture 82a to the upper bottom leg
aperture 80a
which is aligned with the predrilled aperture. Depending on the type of
fastener, a
screwdriver, socket or fastener driver may be inserted through the upper top
leg
aperture 82a to contact the fastener. The fastener is then tightened into
place to secure
the rug clip 60 to the frame. These steps may be repeated for the lower bottom
and top
leg aperture 80b and 82b. It is understood, however, that the rtlg clip 60 can
be
mounted to the frame in a variety of ways including, but not limited to, a
weld or
providing a frame configured so that the clips 60 may be removably secured to
it.
Removal and replacement may be desired to modify the location of clips and/or
to
replace damaged or broken clips.
. In an alternative embodiment, such as that illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13,
rug
clip 160 may comprise a gripping member or center portion 163 and a biasing
member 161. Biasing member 161 is shown as having a first top leg 162a and
second
top leg 162b and a connecting member 166. The biasing member 161 may be
comprised of spring steel or other at least effectively flexible material
which can be
configured to provide an inward bias, as will be explained. As illustrated, a
single
piece biasing member 161 might be bent to form a central connecting member 166
having the downwardlv extending first and second top legs. Such confiy~uration
might
provide a natural bias of the first and second top legs 162a and 162b toward
the
CA 02488184 2004-11-23
gripping member 163 in order to securely hold a rug. In another embodiment,
biasing
member may be comprised of a number of individual compartments.
While biasing member 161 is illustrated as having a substantially rounded
connecting member 166 (to correspond with a rounded frame section 43G)
associated
with each top leg, that need not be the case. Biasing member could likewise be
configured to correspond with any variety of frame conformation (e.g., sduare,
rectangular, angular or otherivise), or it might not necessarily match the
frame shape.
Here, a rounded configuration is illustrated as possibly advantageous to
simplify the
bending process and preloading of biasing force, and to match the exemplary
rounded
frame shape.
In one embodiment, gripping member or center portion 163 may comprise two
bottom legs 164a and 164b. This gripping member might be formed of a single
integral piece of material, or might be provided as several pieces secured
together
with, for example, a spot weld (see, e.g. FIG. 12). As illustrated, gripping
member
I S 163 may further CO111pr1Se proximal end 165 and distal end 167,
respectively, wherein
proximal end 165 may include one or more flanges or appendages 169 for
mounting
the gripping member 163 to the top section 436 of frame such as by, for
example, a
weld, rivets or other fasteners. Distal end 167 of gripping member 163 may
include a
plurality of teeth 168 or other gripping elements) for gripping a rug when the
rug is
inserted into the rug clip 160. Similar to FIGS. 7-8, the plurality of teeth
168 are
pushed or pinched against the inside surface of top legs 162a and 162b as a
result of
the inward bias of the biasing member 161, and tend to form an acute angle a
with the
gripping member 163.
In one embodiment, the rug clip 160 is mounted to the frame by securing
gripping member 163 in an advantageous location on a section of the frame
(e.g. top
section 436 as illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13). Biasing member 161 may then be
positioned downward around top section 436 so that top legs 162a and 162b
generally
are biased toward teeth 168 of gripping member 163. Biasing member may
thereafter
be secured to the frame by, for example, a fastener 181 or weld. As an
example, after
biasing member 161 is placed over the frame section (e.g., 436) and in proper
biasing
orientation relative to the gripping member 163, a metal screw or rivet (e.g.,
181)
might be placed through member 161 and into the frame section to keep biasing
member 161 from moving along the frame or otherwise being knocked loose. It is
also contemplated that mg clip 160 may be removeably secured to frame such a
by
21
CA 02488184 2004-11-23
providing a bracket or groove fnot shown) associated with the frame (e.~.. on
the
underside of frame section -4:6) for selectively securing the gripping member
thereto.
For example, a groove or keyvay might be formed along the tower parts of
various
frame sections (e.g., sections 133, 136, 236, 436) to allow for insertion of a
corresponding key or flange 165 of a gripping member 163. In this way, clips
could
be easily added, removed, or moved as needed for any particular rug display
frame, or
to accommodate a custom size or shape of rug.
In yet another <l~t~l'11Mt1\u cnlbUdllllcllt, such as that illustrated in
FIGS. 14 and
15, rug clip 660 may comprise a gripping member or center pol-tlon 663, a
biasing
member 661 and a clamping member 670. Gripping member or center portion 663
may comprise two bottom legs 664a and 664b similar to that illustrated in
FIGS. 12-
13 and secured along a central axis A. Similar to FIGS. 7-8 and 12-13, the
plurality of
teeth 668 (e.g. first gripping elements) extend outwardly from central axis A
and are
pushed or pinched awainst the inside surface of top legs 662a and 662b of
biasing
member 661 in use as a result of the imvard bias of the biasing member 661. As
illustrated in this example, the angled teeth might advantageously tend to
form an
acute angle a with the gripping member 663.
Biasing member 661 is shown as having a first top leg 662a and second top
leg 662b and a connecting member 666 similar to that of FIGS. 12 and 13. As
will be
understood, this configuration provides a generally inverted U=shaped
configuration
of biasing member 661 which can be correspondingly shaped to match a pol-tion
of
frame (e.g. 636) to facilitate assembly and use of the clip in a display
system. As best
illustrated in FIG. 14, however, biasing member 661 may ful-ther comprise an
additional pair of teeth or second gripping elements 671 each located on first
top leg
662a and second top lei 662b. Second gripping elements may be cut from first
and
second top legs of biasing member and extend outwardly from central axis A. In
the
illustrated embodiment, second gripping elements may extend away from biasing
member 661 so as to create a second contact or attachment point to secure
additional
rigs as described below. Second gripping elements may also extend inwardly
toward
central axis A in another embodiment. In addition, it is contemplated that
second
gripping elements may be located 011 clamping member 670 and extend iwvard to
central axis A.
As illustrated, clamping member 670 may comprise first and second clamp
arms 672a and 672b. Clamping member 670 may be mounted over at least a portion
22
CA 02488184 2004-11-23
Of Il7e blaSlllg lllel11be1' 661 SO lhal 111-SL alld SeC011d Clalllp ~ll'1175
672a and 672b are
biased against second gripping elements 671 of biasing member 661. In various
embodiments, a clamping member might advantageously overlie or telescope over
a
portion of or substantially all of the con-esponding biasing member. To
achieve a
~ desired bias to be~exerted by the clamping member in use, clamping member
670 may
comprise a press arrangement 674 between first and second clamp anus 672a and
. 672b. As used herein, "press arrangement" may be a mechanical arrangement
configured to apply pressure to an article to be held (e.g., a rug) and toward
a gripping
element or other apparatus configured to secure the article. As illustrated in
FIGS.
14-15, press arrangement 674 may be configured to straddle a frame 636 and in
the
illustrated embodiment, telescope over at least a portion of frame 636. Such
configuration, while not necessary, allows the clamping member 670 to
effectively
apply a force at 1 0 or nlure lomtions ol~ the biasing member (e.g. at the
upper portion
of first top leg 662a and second top leg 662b and at second gripping elements
671).
l ~ As will be understood, this configuration provides a generally inverted U-
shaped
configuration of clamping member 670 which can be correspondingly shaped to
match a portion of frame (e.g. 636) to facilitate assembly and use of the clip
in a
display system.
Rug clip 660 mny be mounted to the frame by securing gripping member 663
in an advantageous location on a section of the frame (such as by securement
screw
681 or other fastening or adhesive arrangement). Biasing member 661 may then
be
positioned downwardly around top section of frame 636 so that top legs 662a
and
662b generally are biased toward first gripping elements 668 of gripping
member 663.
Clamping member 670 may similarly be positioned downwardly around biasing
member 661 so that first and second clamp anus 672a and 672b are biased toward
biasing member 661. Clamping and biasing members may thereafter be secured to
the
frame by, for example, a screw 681 or weld.
As will be appreciated, one advantage of the clips illustrated in FIGS. 12-15
is
that they can easily accommodate back to back or multiple rugs for
simultaneous
display, yet can function well if only a single rug is inserted. For example,
referring
to FIGS. 13 and 1 ~, one rug could be inserted into clips 160 and 660 by
pulling an
upper edge of the rug 110 upwardly past distal ends 167 and 667 and into the
areas
191 and 691 between gripping members 163 and 663 and the inside surface of top
legs 162b and 662b. The inward bias of top legs 162b and 662b would tend to
push
23
CA 02488184 2004-11-23
the rug against gripping members 163 and 663, and teeth 168 or first gripping
elements 668 would prevent the rug from easily moving downwardly. A second rug
(not shown) could be similarly inserted on the other side of the clip 160 and
660, with
the upper edge of such rug being drawn into space 192 and 692 beUveen gripping
member 163 and 663 and the inner surface of top leg 162a and 662x. Because of
the
effective double inward bias Of bII1s111L-JT 1172111be1' 161 and 661 alld the
double faced
gripping member 163 and 663, clips 160 and 660 work equally well with rugs on
either side, or both sides. As will be understood, this unique clip an-
angement thereby
obviates a need for having individual clips for particular display "faces" or
sides of a
display rack. Moreover, with regard to the exemplary clip 660 illustrated in
FIGS. 14
and 15, additional rugs may be mounted in a similar manner described above
such as
within spaces 693 and 69:~ between the biasing member 661 and the clamping
member 670.
As previously stated, the rug clips 60, 160 and 660 of the present invention
1 ~ can be mounted at any location on a frame including, but not limited to
the front
section, the top section, the rear section, the bottom section and the
crossbar. In
FIGS. 6, 12 and 14, once the exemplary rug clips 60, 160 and 660 are mounted
to a
frame, a rug 1 10 can b~ sccurml io tl~c rug clips 60, 1G0 and 660 by placing
the edge
of a rug 110 up against the teeth (or gripping elements) of the nlg clip and
then
pushing the rug 110 toward the connecting member 66, 166 and 666. As
mentioned,
two or more nlgs may be mounted (e.g., back to back) from clips 160 and 660
illustrated in FIGS. 12-15. As the teeth (or gripping elements) are oriented
upwardly.
the mg 110 may freely slide upward without damaging the rug 110. Furthermore.
once in place, the upward 811"~I(', UI' U1'1C',lltat1011 Of the teeth (or
gripping elements)
prevents the rug from slipping to the floor as the teeth of the clips grab the
back of the
mg. The bias of the clips tend to hold the gripping elements (e.g., teeth,
serrations, or
knurled surface) against the nap of the rug. Gravity also tends to engage the
gripping
elements with the rug to secure it in place.
The rug may be dismounted and removed from such clips by pulling the rug
outwardly toward the top legs 62, 162 and 662 (and,ior clamp anus 672 in FIGS.
14-
15). The ntg can then be slid out of a clip without interference. Accordingly,
a single
clerk can conveniently secure a rug 110 to, or remove a rug 110 from a frame
in the
rug display system. Moreover, no independent opening or unclamping of
individual
?-t
CA 02488184 2004-11-23
rug clips is required, as upward pulling of a rug away from bottom lea results
in an
automatic release from the clip.
Another feature of the present invention is that the frames of the rug display
system may be easily removed from the base for changing the display and/or
placing
or removing a rug. The frame may be removed from the base by lifting the frame
upvardlv off of the post of the base. Removability of the frames serves a
number of
functions including efficient assembly and disassembly. For example, a clerk
may
remove a frame from the rug display system in order to secure a rug to, or
remove a
rug from the frame. While it is not required that the frame be removed from
the base
in order to secure a rug to, or remove a rug from the frame, removal of the
frame may
be desired when a single clerk needs to secure or remove a heavy rug. In this
way, it
can be understood that a frame could be placed on the floor for placing a mg
on the
frame, then the frame and rug can be stood up and the frame inserted onto a
support
post on a base 40.
As illustrated in FIG. 9, in situations where removal of a frame for mounting
a
rug thereto is inconvenient or otherwise less desirable, a plurality of rolled
rug
hangers 400 may be provided for supporting a rolled-up rug 110 adjacent the
crossbar
section 333 of a frame. The rug hangers 400 may have a general shape
reminiscent to
the number "5" and can be made of flat steel. However, it should be understood
that
the rug hangers may comprise a variety of shapes and can be made of plastic,
composite, aluminum and/or any other appropriately strong and durable
substance. In
addition, while FIG. 9 illustrated the rug hangers positioned on the crossbar
333 of the
frame 332, it is understood that the rn' honkers may be positioned anywhere on
the
frame including, but not limited to the top section 336 of the frame 332.
In use, the rug hangers 400 may be positioned on the crossbar 333 by pushing
the channel 402 of the rug hanger 400 dowmvard over the upper portions of
crossbar
333. In FIG. 9, three rug hangers 400 are provided with the first rug hanger
400
positioned at about the center of the crossbar 333 and the remaining two rug
hangers
400 positioned adjacent opposite sides of the frame. However, any number of
rug
hangers 400 may be positioned at any location along the crossbar 333.
A rolled-up rug to be hung is then positioned in the rug hangers 400, and
thereafter a single clerk may maneuver the upper edge of the rug 110 into the
rug clips
60 as described above. Once the edge of the nlg is inserted into the mg clips,
the
cleric may then remove the remainder of the rolled-up rug 110 from the rug
hangers
CA 02488184 2004-11-23
400 and allow the rug 110 to drape downwardlv over the hangers 400 and toward
the
display surface. The clerk may them remove the rug hangers 400 from the rear
of the
rug by pulling the rug hanger 400 upward and off of the crossbar 333 and
twisting the
rug hanger 400 sideways to slide them past crossbar 33?.
Yet another aspect of the present invention is that the rug display systems
may
also be shipped partially assembled or disassembled. FIGS. 10-11, illustrate
exemplary packaging systems for the rug display system of the present
invention.
Referring to FIG. 10, a packaging system for a disassembled rug display system
is
. shown and illustrated. The system may comprise a relatively standard
shipping crate
200 generally in the shape of a box. The crate (e.g., 200) may be sized larger
or
smaller according to the size of the frames intended to be shipped. The crate
200 is
also illustrated as including a plurality of cradles 210 positioned adjacent
to the upper
proximate horizontal edge 212, the lower proximate horizontal edge 214, the
upper
distal horizontal edge 216 and the lower distal horizontal edge 218. In
another
1 ~ embodiment, the frame cradles 210 can be positioned along the proximate
and distil
vertical edges of the crate 200. The same result can be achieved by rotating
the crate
200 about the X-axis 180". In another embodiment, the crate 200 may include
frame
cradles 210 adjacent to either the upper and lower proximate horizontal edges
212,
214 or along the upper and lower distal horizontal edges. In one embodiment.
each
cradle 210 includes a plurality of spaced recesses 225 for receiving a
plurality of
frames 32. The recesses 225 prevent the frames from contacting one another and
maintain a predetermined orientation and spacing of the frames during
shipment. If
desired, the recesses 225 may include padding for further securing the frames
during
shipment.
In one embodiment, the recesses 225 of the corresponding frame cradles 210
can be vertically aligned to accept and secure the frames 32. For example, the
recesses 225 of the frame cradles 210 positioned on the upper proximate and
distal
horizontal ed~~es 212 and ? I6 are vertically aligned with the recesses 225 of
the frame
cradles 210 on the lower proximate and distal horizontal edges 214 and 218.
Moreover, the recesses 225 of the frame cradles 210 positioned on the upper
and
lower proximate horizontal edges 212 and 214 can be horizontally aligned with
the
recesses 225 of the frame cradles 210 on the upper and lower distal horizontal
edge
216 and 218.
26
CA 02488184 2004-11-23
Ill 017e eIllbOdlmeIlt, the crate 200 may include one or more crossbar support
member 230 positioned against a wall inside the crate. The crossbar support
member
230 can be made of wood, steel or any other durable material. The crossbar
support
member 230 adds structural support to the crate and can also provide
additional lateral
support to a plurality of frames within the crate.
Therefore, in accordance with the packaging system for shipping rug display
system frames 32 of the present invention, frames 32 may be inserted into the
crate
200 by working the frame between a first set of corresponding recesses 22~,
pushing
the frame 32 through the crate 200, and working the frame through a second set
of
corresponding r~cesac~ ?~s. Boxes ~i clips aml other accessories may then be
placed
within the inserted frames and taped, shrinkwrapped or banded in place within
the
crate.
The packaging system of the present invention serves multiple fiulctions.
First,
as previously stated, the packaging system provides a means for shipping a
plurality
of rug display system frames while minimizing potential damage to the frames.
In
addition, the packaging systelll O1 the present lllvent1011 provides for easy
and efficient
loading and unloading of the packaging system and its contents (e.g., rug
display
system frames) from a truck. For example, the crate of the packaging system
may be
packed in a warehouse with a plurality of rug display system frames and then
loaded
onto a truck using a standard forklift. Once the crate bearing tile rug
display system
frames arrives at its destination. a single person may unload the crate by
opening the
crate and then removing the rug display system frames one at a time. In this
way,
cranes, lift tracks, loading docks or other specialized equipment is not
necessary for a
customer to receive a display system of the present invention for
installation.
Alternatively, it may be desired to have the rug display system of the present
invention delivered in assembled or semi-assembled condition, thus saving
multiple
hours of installation time. Referring to FIGS. l la-c, a packaging system for
an
assembled rug display system is shown and illustrated. The display system
shown in
FIGS. 11 a-c is essentially the same system shown in FIG. 6. Generally, the
packaging
system comprises multiple bands and blocks used to secure the frames 232 and
base
so that the mg display system may be transported as a unit onto a truck or
into a
store by use of a pallet jack or other lifting device. The exemplary packaging
system
of FIGS. 11 a-c may secure the ru'; display system in multiple locations.
First, the
packaging system may include a front section assembly 500 (as also shown in
the
27
CA 02488184 2004-11-23
partial cross-section of FIG. 1 lb). The front section assembly includes a
first
securing member X02 positioned on top of the plurality of bottom sections 23 I
and
adjacent the plurality of front sections 234 of the frames 232. In one
embodiment, the
first securing member X02 might comprise a 2" x 4" piece of wood, but may
include
steel, pressboard, plastic composite or any other sufficiently sturdy
material. The 2" x
4" 502 extends substantially the entire length of the plurality of adjacent
bott0111
sections 231. A second securing member 504 is then positioned on bottom of the
plurality of adjacent bottom sections 231 alld adjacent the plurality of front
sections
234 of the frames 232. In one embodiment, the second securing member 504
comprises a 4" x 4" piece of wood, but again may include steel, pressboard,
plastic,
composite or any other sufficiently sturdy material. The 4" x 4" 504 may
include a
channel 505 on the posterior surface for receiving a metal securing band 506
therein.
The channel prevents the metal band 506 from moving or contacting the surface
should the member X04 extend downward beyond the wheel 254 of the front
support
1 ~ member 2~2. ~l h~ III~tII banO ~U~ nay be wrapped around the securing
members ~U2
and 504 with at least a portion of the band positioned in the channel SOG and
then
tightened to secure the plurality of front sections 234 together. If desired,
a second
metal band 514 may be used to secure the plurality of crossbar sections 233
and/or
other portions of the assembly "cube".
The rear section assembly 508 singularly includes a securing member 502
positioned on top of the plurality of adjacent bottom sections 231 and
adjacent the
plurality of rear sections 238 of the frames 232. In this illustration, the
securing
member 502 might comprise a 2" x 4" piece of wood, but may include steel,
pressboard, plastic, composite or any other sufficiently sturdy material. As
best seen
in FIG. 1 l c, a plurality of apertures (e.g., 509) can be drilled into the
upper plate 44 of
the base for accepting a bolt or other fastener 510. To prevent the base 40
from falling
as the rug display system is lifted, a fastener ~ 10 may be inserted into the
member
X02, in between two adjacent bottom sections 231 and through the upper plate
aperture and then secured by a nut 512. The base 40 may be secured to the
member
502 in more than one location as necessary to effectively captivate the base
and keep
it from falling when the rug display system is lifted.
To add support to the packaging system, an X-bracing 516 may be positioned
from corner to comer on the two securing members X02 described above. The X-
bracing 516 can be made of wood, steel or any other sufficiently sturdy
material to
28
CA 02488184 2004-11-23
help maintain the integrity and dimensional stability of the packaging system
cube as
it is shipped. In addition, the X-bracing 516 may be secured to a member 502
by a
nail 51 S, screw or any other appropriate fastening device.
Rug display system accessories (described above) may also be conveniently
~ secured in either of the packaging systems of FIGS. 10 and 1 I . For
example, with
respect to the example of FIGS. 1 I a-c, the divider 100 may be positioned on
the posts
of the base, just as it would be when the rug display system is in assembled
condition
for operation. FIG. 11 a illustrates the divider 100 mounted in the middle of
the base
40 for convenient illustration of all accessories. If the rug display system
is shipped as
illustrated, a block (not shown) may be positioned between the gap in the
front
sections 234 to prevent the front sections 234 from swinging into one another.
In
another embodiment, the divider 100 may be mounted to the outermost posts of
the
base 40.
In addition, components of the accessory display assembly (FIG. 3) can be
broken down and secured in the packaging systems of the present invention. For
example, in the example of FIGS. 11 a-c, the pole 92 for the display assembly
may
also be mounted to a base post. In addition, the extension arm 94 may be
turned
upside down and positioned within the perimeter of the frames 232 with the
brackets
95 of the extension arm 94 being mounted to the member 502 by a nail, screw or
any
other appropriate fastening device, and with the other end (tulntlar portion)
resting
against the inner side of the plurality of frames 232. The mounting bar 96 can
similarly be positioned diagonally within the perimeter of the frames 232 as
well. As
mentioned above, additional components such as the bumper, rug hangers,
fasteners
for the base, ete. may by packed in boxes and positioned on the plurality of
bottom
sections 231. Therefore, all components of the rug display system may be
secured
together and confined within the pacl<agmg cube generally defined by the
perimeter of
the plurality of frames 232.
The rug display system may be easily moved or transported by inserting the
legs of a pallet jack or forklift under the bottom sections of the rug display
system and
lifting upward. If desired, a conventional pallet may also be placed under or
secured
to the bottom sections of the frames for additional support and guidance.
The pacl:,iUin~~ s~.rtcm of the present invention serves multiple functions.
First,
as previously stated, the packaging system of the present invention provides
for easy
and efficient loading and unloading of the rug display system from a truck.
For
29
CA 02488184 2004-11-23
example, the entire rua display system. including accessories and components
can be
lifted to a truck and subsequently to a store by one trip with a forklift;
pallet jack or
other lifting device. In addition, the packaging system allows an assembled
rub
display system to be delivered to the cmtomer. Delivery of an assembled rug
display
system can save hours of time otherwise needed to properly assemble the
system.
The foregoing description of the various embodiments of the invention has
been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. It is not
intended to be
exhaustive or to 1111111 I~1L invention to the precise form disclosed. Many
alternatives,
modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art of
the above
teaching. For example, the rug display system in accordance with the present
invention may display rugs of varying sizes and shapes in a variety of
different
arrangements and can include frames of various sizes and shapes. Accordingly,
while
some of the alternative embodiments of the rug display system have been
discussed
specifically, other embodiments will be apparent or relatively easily
developed by
those of ordinary skill in the art. Accordingly, this invention is intended to
embrace
all alternatives, modifications and variations that have been discussed
herein, and
others that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the claims.
