US20060011798A1 - Conerence branding system and related method - Google Patents
Conerence branding system and related method Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20060011798A1 US20060011798A1 US11/183,010 US18301005A US2006011798A1 US 20060011798 A1 US20060011798 A1 US 20060011798A1 US 18301005 A US18301005 A US 18301005A US 2006011798 A1 US2006011798 A1 US 2006011798A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- display panels
- roll
- shipping
- display arrangement
- arrangement
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- G—PHYSICS
- G09—EDUCATION; CRYPTOGRAPHY; DISPLAY; ADVERTISING; SEALS
- G09F—DISPLAYING; ADVERTISING; SIGNS; LABELS OR NAME-PLATES; SEALS
- G09F7/00—Signs, name or number plates, letters, numerals, or symbols; Panels or boards
- G09F7/16—Letters, numerals, or other symbols adapted for permanent fixing to a support
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- G—PHYSICS
- G09—EDUCATION; CRYPTOGRAPHY; DISPLAY; ADVERTISING; SEALS
- G09F—DISPLAYING; ADVERTISING; SIGNS; LABELS OR NAME-PLATES; SEALS
- G09F11/00—Indicating arrangements for variable information in which the complete information is permanently attached to a movable support which brings it to the display position
- G09F11/30—Indicating arrangements for variable information in which the complete information is permanently attached to a movable support which brings it to the display position the display elements being fed one by one from storage place to a display position
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- G—PHYSICS
- G09—EDUCATION; CRYPTOGRAPHY; DISPLAY; ADVERTISING; SEALS
- G09F—DISPLAYING; ADVERTISING; SIGNS; LABELS OR NAME-PLATES; SEALS
- G09F7/00—Signs, name or number plates, letters, numerals, or symbols; Panels or boards
- G09F7/18—Means for attaching signs, plates, panels, or boards to a supporting structure
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- G—PHYSICS
- G09—EDUCATION; CRYPTOGRAPHY; DISPLAY; ADVERTISING; SEALS
- G09F—DISPLAYING; ADVERTISING; SIGNS; LABELS OR NAME-PLATES; SEALS
- G09F7/00—Signs, name or number plates, letters, numerals, or symbols; Panels or boards
- G09F7/18—Means for attaching signs, plates, panels, or boards to a supporting structure
- G09F2007/1856—Means for attaching signs, plates, panels, or boards to a supporting structure characterised by the supporting structure
- G09F2007/186—Means for attaching signs, plates, panels, or boards to a supporting structure characterised by the supporting structure suspended, e.g. secured to the ceiling
Definitions
- the present invention pertains to customized graphics for corporate conferences and the like. More particularly, the present invention pertains to various aspects of a conference branding system. The present invention also more particularly pertains to a related method for providing a customer with a conference branding system.
- Visual materials for customizing and managing graphic branding directives are displayed on the display panels.
- the visual materials may be permanently imprinted on to the display panels, projected on to the display panels, or both. These visual materials may provide a company with strategic communications and a corporate branding campaign to cascade throughout the company.
- Examples of events that utilize display panels of the type which the present invention may be utilized to include but are not limited to employee and investor meetings and sales meetings and events.
- the corporation hosting the events generally desires to provide the event with a positive image with the display panels.
- the display panels may carry corporate logos and the like and may be color and theme coordinated with projected graphics, distributed graphics, or both.
- Event locations generally range from modestly sized conference rooms to ballrooms with 20-80 foot high ceilings and 130 foot stages. Corporate expense for stage building, graphics and related costs can easily exceed $100,000 for a single event.
- the present invention provides a modular conference branding arrangement that can be quickly and easily set up and shipped through conventional channels with standard size boxes.
- the present invention provides a coupling mechanism for suspending a display panel from a stage rigging.
- the coupling mechanism may include a main body portion extending along an axis and having first and second ends for telescopically engaging first and second tubular members, respectively.
- the main body portion may include a generally cylindrical, central section.
- the central section may include an aperture passing therethrough.
- the aperture may extend perpendicular to the axis.
- the coupling mechanism may additionally include a ring member and a retaining member. The retaining member may pass through the ring member and be disposed in the aperture.
- the present invention provides a method of providing a customer with a conference branding system. Ownership of the conference branding system is retained by a party other than the customer. The party provides set up and take down of the conference branding system at designated event sites in exchange for a usage fee. The party takes responsibility for delivering the system to the event site and either shipping the system to the next site or to storage.
- the present invention provides a method of shipping a display arrangement having a plurality of flexible display panels.
- the method includes the step of providing a storage container defining a storage cavity.
- the method additionally includes the step of wrapping the plurality of flexible display panels about a common axis to define a roll and supporting the roll within the storage container.
- the method further includes the step of shipping the storage container.
- FIG. 1A is an environmental view of a display arrangement incorporating bi-directional coupling assemblies constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention.
- FIG. 1B is a top schematic view of the display arrangement of FIG. 1A .
- FIG. 2 is a partially exploded top view illustrating a bi-directional coupling assembly of the present invention operatively associated with a pair of tubes.
- FIG. 3 is a front view of the bi-directional coupling assembly of the present invention.
- FIG. 4 is an end view of the bi-directional coupling assembly of the present invention.
- FIG. 5 is a side view of a main body portion of the bi-directional coupling assembly of the present invention.
- FIG. 6 is a top view of the main body portion of the bi-directional coupling assembly of the present invention.
- FIG. 7 illustrates a round ring of the bi-directional coupling assembly of the present invention.
- FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate a clip of the bi-directional coupling assembly of the present invention.
- FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate a spring plunger of the bi-directional coupling assembly of the present invention.
- FIG. 10 illustrates a headless pin of the bi-directional coupling assembly of the present invention.
- FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a shipping container containing a five-panel display arrangement of the present invention.
- FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 12 - 12 of FIG. 11 .
- FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 13 - 13 of FIG. 11 .
- FIG. 14 is a schematic illustration of the general steps of a method of the present invention.
- a display arrangement 10 is shown and generally identified at reference character 10 .
- the subject invention is directed to various aspects of a system for suspending graphics panels and a related method.
- the subject invention is directed to various aspects of a conference branding system.
- FIG. 1 Prior to addressing the specific teachings of the present invention, a brief understanding of the exemplary environment illustrated in FIG. 1 is warranted.
- the display arrangement 10 is shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B to include a plurality of display panels 12 A- 12 E.
- the display panels 12 A- 12 E may be suspended from conventional stage trusses 13 in a manner to be addressed below. Alternatively, it will be understood that the display panels 12 A- 12 E may be suspended from airwall tracks or other known structures. In this regard, the present invention shall not be limited to any particular form of suspension.
- the display panels 12 may be used to present graphics at live meetings, educational or training seminars, media or business theater environments, or the like.
- the arrangement 10 is shown to include five (5) display panels 12 . It will be understood that the arrangement may also include more or less display panels.
- the display panels 12 A- 12 E may be constructed of a suitable fabric material.
- the material of the display panels 12 A- 12 E may be sufficiently flexible to allow the display panels 12 A- 12 E to be rolled and unrolled. Upon unrolling, the display panels 12 A- 12 E may be free of any creases.
- the display panels 12 A- 12 E may provide a suspended, stationary, and smooth surface for displaying the desired graphics.
- the display panels 12 A- 12 E may be constructed of a white oxford material and treated with fire retarding chemicals.
- the display panels 12 A- 12 E may be provided with sleeves that extend horizontally along a top edge and a bottom edge. These integrally formed sleeves may receive tubular members (partially shown in the exploded view of FIG. 2 at reference character 14 ).
- the tubular members 14 along the top edges may provide a rigid element from which the display panels 12 A- 12 E may be suspended.
- the tubular members 14 along the bottom edges may ensure that the display panels 12 A- 12 E hang smoothly by similarly providing a rigid element.
- the tubular members 14 along the bottom edges may provide a weight that limits wavering of the display panels 12 A- 12 E.
- the tubular members 14 may be provided in various lengths. In certain applications, the tubular members 14 are provided in lengths of about 9 feet or less.
- the display panels 12 A- 12 E of the display arrangement 10 may be preprinted with graphics. Alternatively, the display panels 12 A- 12 E can be illuminated with graphics. The display panels 12 A- 12 E may be preprinted with generic graphics, as discussed below, which may potentially be used by various corporations and/or for various events.
- the display panels 12 A- 12 E may be used with one or more projection screen panels 15 .
- the projection screen panels 15 may be illuminated with graphics by a rear projector 17 , for example.
- the display arrangement 10 illustrated may be used in conjunction with a 16 foot tall velour drape.
- the display arrangement 10 may be lighted with dimmable source upwash lamps with floor bases and diffusion gels.
- the present invention may include a coupling mechanism 16 for suspending the display panels 12 from the conventional stage rigging.
- the coupling mechanism may include a main body portion 18 .
- the main body portion 18 may be generally cylindrical and extend along an axis 20 (see FIG. 5 ).
- the main body portion 18 may have first and second ends 22 and 24 for telescopically engaging first and second tubular members 14 , respectively.
- the first and second ends 22 and 24 may have a slightly reduced diameter and may be received in the respective tubular members 14 .
- the tubular members 14 may be releasably coupled to the tubular members 14 with a pair of resilient members 26 .
- the resilient members may be spring plungers 26 including a body 28 and a spring biased plunger nose 30 .
- the body 28 may be received within an aperture 32 provided in one of the ends 22 or 24 in a press fit relationship.
- the apertures 32 may extend perpendicular to the axis 20 .
- the plunger nose 30 may outwardly extend to engage a small hole 34 provided in the tubular members 14 .
- the coupling mechanism 16 may further include a ring member 36 .
- the ring member 36 may be disposed in a slot 37 passing through the main body portion 18 and may be coupled to the main body portion 18 by a headless pin 38 .
- the slot 37 may allow the ring 36 to be adjusted vertically relative to the main body portion 18 .
- the headless pin 38 may be disposed in an aperture 40 located in the main body portion 18 .
- the aperture 40 may pass through the slot 37 and may be generally perpendicular to the axis 20 and the apertures 32 of the ends 22 and 24 .
- the headless pin 38 may be retained in the aperture 40 by a pair of clips 42 .
- the main body portion 18 may include a pair of concave recesses 44 .
- the concave recesses 44 may be formed on opposite sides of the main body portion 18 .
- the concave recesses 44 may improve access to the ring 36 for hooking.
- the main body portion 18 may be constructed of metal and may have a length of approximately 3.25 inches.
- the central portion of the main body portion 18 may have a diameter of approximately 1.00 inches and a length of approximately 1.50 inches.
- the subject invention may provide a modular arrangement 10 that can be readily adapted for various event sites.
- a complete set of display panels 12 A- 12 E can be created.
- the display panels 12 A- 12 E typically have a maximum dimension of nine feet.
- the modular nature of the arrangement 10 allows a user to selectively choose the particular panels 12 for a desired event site.
- the display arrangement 10 is a specific design for a conventional 100 foot stage.
- at least one of the display panels 12 C has a width dimension (i.e., in a horizontal direction) of approximately 27 feet in three 9 foot increments and a height dimension (ie., in a vertical direction) of approximately 9 feet.
- the other display panels 12 A, 12 B, 12 D and 12 E may have the following dimensions of approximately 9 feet by 12 feet, for example.
- the present invention may generally include coordinated PowerPoint® templates for projection onto a screen, such as the projection screens 15 .
- the templates may be color and theme coordinated for use with the display panels 12 A- 12 E.
- the colors of the projected images and the display panels 12 must be adjusted to accommodate differences that necessarily result between images that are printed to a fabric and illuminated and images that are projected on to a screen.
- the present invention may also generally include printed materials for distribution to the attendees of the conference. Similar to the templates discussed above, the printed materials may be color and theme coordinated for use with the display panels 12 .
- a modular arrangement 10 is constructed to include a plurality of display panels 12 and generally have a common theme.
- the display panels 12 are dedicated for a particular customer.
- the method may also include the preparation of templates and printed materials as addressed above.
- the customer does not purchase the display panels 12 . Rather, the customer pays the owner of the display panels 12 a usage fee for each use.
- the owner ships the display panels 12 to a designated event site and sets up the display panels 12 .
- the owner disassembles the display panels 12 .
- the display panels 12 may be taken to storage or shipped to the next event location.
- the modular nature of the arrangement of the present invention facilitates rapid shipment of the components from location to location.
- the fabric display panels 12 may be stacked and rolled to fit within a conventional box have maximum dimensions of approximately 10′′ by 10′′ by 120′′ (for example).
- the tubular members 14 and the coupling mechanisms 16 may be shipped in these same boxes along with the display panels 12 .
- the boxes are suitable for shipment with carriers such as UPS®, Federal Express® and the like for expedited shipment. Because the components of the present invention may be quickly and easily set up and taken down, and also because the components can be readily shipped with standard, expedited carriers, transportation from location to location may be accomplished in a quick and cost effective manner. In this regard, a single arrangement may be used in New York City at the beginning of the week and Beijing later in the same week.
- the modular nature of the present invention also facilitates storage for future use.
- the display arrangement 10 of the present invention is shown stored within a shipping container 50 .
- the shipping container 50 has a length L of approximately 117 inches, a height H of approximately 10.5 inches and a width W of approximately 9.5 inches. While these dimensions may vary, the shipping container typically has a maximum height of 12 inches, a maximum length of 119 inches and a maximum width of 11 inches.
- the shipping container 50 may be constructed of wood or other suitable material and include edges and corners conventionally reinforced with metal.
- the container may include a base 52 and a top 54 .
- the base 52 and top 54 cooperate to define a storage area 56 for receiving and storing the display arrangement 10 .
- the top 54 may be pivotally attached to the base 52 with hinges (not shown) in a conventional manner.
- the top 54 may be secured in a closed orientation manner.
- the top 54 may be secured in a closed orientation relative to the base 54 with a plurality of latches 58 .
- the latches 58 may be lockable latches.
- the display panels 12 may be stacked and rolled about a common axis. In certain applications, the display panels may be rolled about a tubular member 60 .
- the tubular member 60 may be a PVC tube or other suitable structure.
- the ends of the tubular member 60 may be supported within recesses 62 (see FIG. 13 ) provided at the ends of the storage area 56 .
- the recesses 62 may be defined in a foam panel 64 .
- a foam member 66 may be carried by the top 54 and thereby compress the tubular member 60 along with the foam recess 62 for stable shipment.
- the method includes the step of providing a storage container 50 defining a storage cavity 56 .
- the method includes the step of wrapping a plurality of flexible display panels 12 about a common axis to define a roll.
- the method includes the step of supporting the roll within the storage container 50 .
- the method includes the step of shipping the storage container 50 .
- the loaded container When the display arrangement 10 is stored in the storage container 50 for shipment, the loaded container preferably has a maximum weight of approximately 150 lbs. In certain applications, the container 50 may have a weight of approximately 138 lbs.
- the storage container 50 may include a handle at one end and a pair of wheels 72 (see FIG. 13 ) to facilitate manual transportation to and from a delivery vehicle.
- the display panels 12 of the present invention may be provided with standard or stock setups to promote particular themes.
- the display panels 12 of the present invention may be designed to address at least the following standard setups: innovation and communications; stock, financial and institutional; engineering and technology; health care and pharmaceuticals; community and employee appreciation; and customer appreciation.
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Abstract
A portable display arrangement for the display of graphics at a conference or like event includes a plurality of flexible display panels. The plurality of flexible display panels wrap around a common axis to form a roll. A shipping container defines a storage cavity receives and supports the roll. A plurality of tubular members for suspending the plurality of flexible display panels from one or more trusses or other suspension structure are disposed in the storage cavity.
Description
- This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/588,964 filed on Jul. 16, 2004. This related application is hereby incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein.
- The present invention pertains to customized graphics for corporate conferences and the like. More particularly, the present invention pertains to various aspects of a conference branding system. The present invention also more particularly pertains to a related method for providing a customer with a conference branding system.
- It is known to utilize one or more display panels during live meetings, during education and training seminars, at media and business theater environments and the like to present a corporate image or other information. Visual materials for customizing and managing graphic branding directives are displayed on the display panels. The visual materials may be permanently imprinted on to the display panels, projected on to the display panels, or both. These visual materials may provide a company with strategic communications and a corporate branding campaign to cascade throughout the company.
- Examples of events that utilize display panels of the type which the present invention may be utilized to include but are not limited to employee and investor meetings and sales meetings and events. The corporation hosting the events generally desires to provide the event with a positive image with the display panels.
- In this regard, the display panels may carry corporate logos and the like and may be color and theme coordinated with projected graphics, distributed graphics, or both.
- Conventional display panels are typically incorporated into dedicated stages that are built specifically for an event. At the conclusion of the event, the dedicated stage, including the dedicated graphics materials, is disassembled and generally discarded. In certain applications, portions of the dedicated stage may be saved and stored for future use. Due to the expense, labor and storage space requirements associated with reusing portions of the dedicated stage, the practice of saving and storing is clearly an exception to the general rule.
- Even for applications in which portions of a dedicated stage may be returned for subsequent use, shipping issues are significant. The equipment must be packed into specially designed crating. It is impractical, if not impossible, to ship such crating in an efficient and cost effective manner. For these described shipping considerations and the above discussed set up considerations, conventional equipment cannot readily be moved from location to location.
- Event locations generally range from modestly sized conference rooms to ballrooms with 20-80 foot high ceilings and 130 foot stages. Corporate expense for stage building, graphics and related costs can easily exceed $100,000 for a single event.
- While conventional stage construction and related branding effectively serves intended purposes relating to the creation of furtherance of a corporate image, for example, a need for improvement of the pertinent art remains. In this regard, a need in the art exists for a more cost efficient corporate branding system. There is also a need in the art for a modular corporate branding system readily adaptable to event locations of various size. Furthermore, a need exists in the art for a conference branding system that can be quickly and easily be set up, torn down, shipped, stored and reused.
- In one form, the present invention provides a modular conference branding arrangement that can be quickly and easily set up and shipped through conventional channels with standard size boxes.
- In another form, the present invention provides a coupling mechanism for suspending a display panel from a stage rigging. The coupling mechanism may include a main body portion extending along an axis and having first and second ends for telescopically engaging first and second tubular members, respectively. The main body portion may include a generally cylindrical, central section. The central section may include an aperture passing therethrough. The aperture may extend perpendicular to the axis. The coupling mechanism may additionally include a ring member and a retaining member. The retaining member may pass through the ring member and be disposed in the aperture.
- In yet another form, the present invention provides a method of providing a customer with a conference branding system. Ownership of the conference branding system is retained by a party other than the customer. The party provides set up and take down of the conference branding system at designated event sites in exchange for a usage fee. The party takes responsibility for delivering the system to the event site and either shipping the system to the next site or to storage.
- In a still further aspect, the present invention provides a method of shipping a display arrangement having a plurality of flexible display panels. The method includes the step of providing a storage container defining a storage cavity. The method additionally includes the step of wrapping the plurality of flexible display panels about a common axis to define a roll and supporting the roll within the storage container. The method further includes the step of shipping the storage container.
- Additional benefits and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art to which this invention relates from a reading of the subsequent description of the preferred embodiment and the appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
- The present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein:
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FIG. 1A is an environmental view of a display arrangement incorporating bi-directional coupling assemblies constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention. -
FIG. 1B is a top schematic view of the display arrangement ofFIG. 1A . -
FIG. 2 is a partially exploded top view illustrating a bi-directional coupling assembly of the present invention operatively associated with a pair of tubes. -
FIG. 3 is a front view of the bi-directional coupling assembly of the present invention. -
FIG. 4 is an end view of the bi-directional coupling assembly of the present invention. -
FIG. 5 is a side view of a main body portion of the bi-directional coupling assembly of the present invention. -
FIG. 6 is a top view of the main body portion of the bi-directional coupling assembly of the present invention. -
FIG. 7 illustrates a round ring of the bi-directional coupling assembly of the present invention. -
FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate a clip of the bi-directional coupling assembly of the present invention. -
FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate a spring plunger of the bi-directional coupling assembly of the present invention. -
FIG. 10 illustrates a headless pin of the bi-directional coupling assembly of the present invention. -
FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a shipping container containing a five-panel display arrangement of the present invention. -
FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 12-12 ofFIG. 11 . -
FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 13-13 ofFIG. 11 . -
FIG. 14 is a schematic illustration of the general steps of a method of the present invention. - The following description of the present invention is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its application, or uses.
- With initial reference to the environmental view of
FIG. 1A and the related schematic view ofFIG. 1B , a display arrangement 10 is shown and generally identified at reference character 10. As will become apparent below, the subject invention is directed to various aspects of a system for suspending graphics panels and a related method. In one particular application, the subject invention is directed to various aspects of a conference branding system. Prior to addressing the specific teachings of the present invention, a brief understanding of the exemplary environment illustrated inFIG. 1 is warranted. - The display arrangement 10 is shown in
FIGS. 1A and 1B to include a plurality ofdisplay panels 12A-12E. Thedisplay panels 12A-12E may be suspended from conventional stage trusses 13 in a manner to be addressed below. Alternatively, it will be understood that thedisplay panels 12A-12E may be suspended from airwall tracks or other known structures. In this regard, the present invention shall not be limited to any particular form of suspension. In the particular arrangement shown, thedisplay panels 12 may be used to present graphics at live meetings, educational or training seminars, media or business theater environments, or the like. InFIGS. 1A and 1B , the arrangement 10 is shown to include five (5)display panels 12. It will be understood that the arrangement may also include more or less display panels. - The
display panels 12A-12E may be constructed of a suitable fabric material. For shipping purposes, the material of thedisplay panels 12A-12E may be sufficiently flexible to allow thedisplay panels 12A-12E to be rolled and unrolled. Upon unrolling, thedisplay panels 12A-12E may be free of any creases. For display purpose, thedisplay panels 12A-12E may provide a suspended, stationary, and smooth surface for displaying the desired graphics. In one particular application, thedisplay panels 12A-12E may be constructed of a white oxford material and treated with fire retarding chemicals. - In a conventional manner insofar as the subject invention is concerned, the
display panels 12A-12E may be provided with sleeves that extend horizontally along a top edge and a bottom edge. These integrally formed sleeves may receive tubular members (partially shown in the exploded view ofFIG. 2 at reference character 14). Thetubular members 14 along the top edges may provide a rigid element from which thedisplay panels 12A-12E may be suspended. Thetubular members 14 along the bottom edges may ensure that thedisplay panels 12A-12E hang smoothly by similarly providing a rigid element. Additionally in this regard, thetubular members 14 along the bottom edges may provide a weight that limits wavering of thedisplay panels 12A-12E. Thetubular members 14 may be provided in various lengths. In certain applications, thetubular members 14 are provided in lengths of about 9 feet or less. - The
display panels 12A-12E of the display arrangement 10 may be preprinted with graphics. Alternatively, thedisplay panels 12A-12E can be illuminated with graphics. Thedisplay panels 12A-12E may be preprinted with generic graphics, as discussed below, which may potentially be used by various corporations and/or for various events. - As illustrated in
FIGS. 1A and 1B , thedisplay panels 12A-12E may be used with one or moreprojection screen panels 15. Theprojection screen panels 15 may be illuminated with graphics by arear projector 17, for example. The display arrangement 10 illustrated may be used in conjunction with a 16 foot tall velour drape. The display arrangement 10 may be lighted with dimmable source upwash lamps with floor bases and diffusion gels. - With continued reference to
FIGS. 1A and 1B and additional reference toFIGS. 2 through 10 , the present invention may include acoupling mechanism 16 for suspending thedisplay panels 12 from the conventional stage rigging. The coupling mechanism may include amain body portion 18. In the embodiment illustrated, themain body portion 18 may be generally cylindrical and extend along an axis 20 (seeFIG. 5 ). Themain body portion 18 may have first and second ends 22 and 24 for telescopically engaging first and secondtubular members 14, respectively. Explaining further, the first and second ends 22 and 24 may have a slightly reduced diameter and may be received in the respectivetubular members 14. - The
tubular members 14 may be releasably coupled to thetubular members 14 with a pair ofresilient members 26. In the embodiment illustrated, the resilient members may bespring plungers 26 including abody 28 and a springbiased plunger nose 30. Thebody 28 may be received within anaperture 32 provided in one of theends apertures 32 may extend perpendicular to the axis 20. Theplunger nose 30 may outwardly extend to engage asmall hole 34 provided in thetubular members 14. - The
coupling mechanism 16 may further include aring member 36. Thering member 36 may be disposed in aslot 37 passing through themain body portion 18 and may be coupled to themain body portion 18 by aheadless pin 38. Theslot 37 may allow thering 36 to be adjusted vertically relative to themain body portion 18. Theheadless pin 38 may be disposed in anaperture 40 located in themain body portion 18. Theaperture 40 may pass through theslot 37 and may be generally perpendicular to the axis 20 and theapertures 32 of theends headless pin 38 may be retained in theaperture 40 by a pair ofclips 42. - In the embodiment illustrated, the
main body portion 18 may include a pair ofconcave recesses 44. The concave recesses 44 may be formed on opposite sides of themain body portion 18. The concave recesses 44 may improve access to thering 36 for hooking. - In one particular application, the
main body portion 18 may be constructed of metal and may have a length of approximately 3.25 inches. In this particular application, the central portion of themain body portion 18 may have a diameter of approximately 1.00 inches and a length of approximately 1.50 inches. Those skilled in the art, however, will readily appreciate that the particular dimensions are merely exemplary and may be readily modified within the scope of the present invention. - The subject invention may provide a modular arrangement 10 that can be readily adapted for various event sites. In this regard, a complete set of
display panels 12A-12E can be created. Thedisplay panels 12A-12E typically have a maximum dimension of nine feet. The modular nature of the arrangement 10 allows a user to selectively choose theparticular panels 12 for a desired event site. - In certain applications the display arrangement 10 is a specific design for a conventional 100 foot stage. In certain applications, at least one of the display panels 12C, for example, has a width dimension (i.e., in a horizontal direction) of approximately 27 feet in three 9 foot increments and a height dimension (ie., in a vertical direction) of approximately 9 feet. In such an application, the
other display panels - In addition to the
display panels 12, the present invention may generally include coordinated PowerPoint® templates for projection onto a screen, such as the projection screens 15. The templates may be color and theme coordinated for use with thedisplay panels 12A-12E. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the colors of the projected images and thedisplay panels 12 must be adjusted to accommodate differences that necessarily result between images that are printed to a fabric and illuminated and images that are projected on to a screen. - The present invention may also generally include printed materials for distribution to the attendees of the conference. Similar to the templates discussed above, the printed materials may be color and theme coordinated for use with the
display panels 12. - According to a method of the present invention, a modular arrangement 10 is constructed to include a plurality of
display panels 12 and generally have a common theme. Thedisplay panels 12 are dedicated for a particular customer. The method may also include the preparation of templates and printed materials as addressed above. - In one particular application, the customer does not purchase the
display panels 12. Rather, the customer pays the owner of the display panels 12 a usage fee for each use. The owner ships thedisplay panels 12 to a designated event site and sets up thedisplay panels 12. At the conclusion of the conference, the owner disassembles thedisplay panels 12. Thedisplay panels 12 may be taken to storage or shipped to the next event location. - The modular nature of the arrangement of the present invention facilitates rapid shipment of the components from location to location. In this regard, the
fabric display panels 12 may be stacked and rolled to fit within a conventional box have maximum dimensions of approximately 10″ by 10″ by 120″ (for example). As discussed below, thetubular members 14 and thecoupling mechanisms 16 may be shipped in these same boxes along with thedisplay panels 12. The boxes are suitable for shipment with carriers such as UPS®, Federal Express® and the like for expedited shipment. Because the components of the present invention may be quickly and easily set up and taken down, and also because the components can be readily shipped with standard, expedited carriers, transportation from location to location may be accomplished in a quick and cost effective manner. In this regard, a single arrangement may be used in New York City at the beginning of the week and Beijing later in the same week. The modular nature of the present invention also facilitates storage for future use. - With reference to the perspective view of
FIG. 11 and the cross-sectional views ofFIGS. 12 and 13 , the display arrangement 10 of the present invention is shown stored within ashipping container 50. In one application, theshipping container 50 has a length L of approximately 117 inches, a height H of approximately 10.5 inches and a width W of approximately 9.5 inches. While these dimensions may vary, the shipping container typically has a maximum height of 12 inches, a maximum length of 119 inches and a maximum width of 11 inches. - The
shipping container 50 may be constructed of wood or other suitable material and include edges and corners conventionally reinforced with metal. The container may include a base 52 and a top 54. The base 52 and top 54 cooperate to define astorage area 56 for receiving and storing the display arrangement 10. The top 54 may be pivotally attached to the base 52 with hinges (not shown) in a conventional manner. The top 54 may be secured in a closed orientation manner. The top 54 may be secured in a closed orientation relative to the base 54 with a plurality oflatches 58. Thelatches 58 may be lockable latches. - The
display panels 12 may be stacked and rolled about a common axis. In certain applications, the display panels may be rolled about atubular member 60. Thetubular member 60 may be a PVC tube or other suitable structure. The ends of thetubular member 60 may be supported within recesses 62 (seeFIG. 13 ) provided at the ends of thestorage area 56. The recesses 62 may be defined in a foam panel 64. In this manner, the stacked and rolleddisplay panels 12 may be supported above a bottom of thestorage area 56 to accommodate the other components (e.g., tubes 14) of the display arrangement 10. Afoam member 66 may be carried by the top 54 and thereby compress thetubular member 60 along with the foam recess 62 for stable shipment. - Turning to
FIG. 14 , a method of shipping a display arrangement 10 in accordance with the present invention will be described. In a first general step 100, the method includes the step of providing astorage container 50 defining astorage cavity 56. In a second general step 110, the method includes the step of wrapping a plurality offlexible display panels 12 about a common axis to define a roll. In a thirdgeneral step 120, the method includes the step of supporting the roll within thestorage container 50. In a fourth general step 130, the method includes the step of shipping thestorage container 50. - When the display arrangement 10 is stored in the
storage container 50 for shipment, the loaded container preferably has a maximum weight of approximately 150 lbs. In certain applications, thecontainer 50 may have a weight of approximately 138 lbs. Thestorage container 50 may include a handle at one end and a pair of wheels 72 (seeFIG. 13 ) to facilitate manual transportation to and from a delivery vehicle. - It is anticipated the
display panels 12 of the present invention may be provided with standard or stock setups to promote particular themes. In this regard, it is anticipated that thedisplay panels 12 of the present invention may be designed to address at least the following standard setups: innovation and communications; stock, financial and institutional; engineering and technology; health care and pharmaceuticals; community and employee appreciation; and customer appreciation. - While the invention has been described in the specification and illustrated in the drawings with reference to a preferred embodiment, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiment illustrated by the drawings and described in the specification as the best mode presently contemplated for carrying out this invention.
Claims (17)
1. A coupling mechanism for suspending a display panel from a stage rigging, the coupling mechanism comprising:
a main body portion extending along an axis and having first and second ends for telescopically engaging first and second tubular members, respectively, the main body portion including a generally cylindrical, central section, the central section including an aperture passing therethrough, the aperture extending perpendicular to the axis;
a ring member; and
a retaining member passing through the ring member and disposed in the aperture.
2. The coupling mechanism for suspending a display panel of claim 1 , further comprising first and second resilient members for releasably securing the first end to the first tubular member and the second end to the second tubular member, respectively.
3. The coupling mechanism for suspending a display panel of claim 2 , wherein the first and second resilient members are spring plungers.
4. The coupling mechanism for suspending a display panel of claim 1 , wherein the main body portion defines an elongated slot vertically extending therethrough, the ring disposed in the slot.
5. The coupling mechanism for suspending a display panel of claim 5 , wherein the main body portion defines a pair of concave recesses, the slot intersecting the pair of concave recesses.
6. A portable display arrangement for the display of graphics at a conference or like event, the portable display arrangement comprising:
a plurality of flexible display panels, the plurality of flexible display panels wrapped around a common axis to form a roll;
a shipping container defining a storage cavity receiving and supporting the roll; and
a plurality of tubular members for suspending the plurality of flexible display panels from one or more trusses, the plurality of tubular members disposed in the storage cavity.
7. The portable display arrangement of claim 6 , wherein the storage cavity is partially defined by a lower floor, the roll supported within the storage cavity above the lower floor.
8. The portable display arrangement of claim 6 , wherein the plurality of display panels are stacked and wrapped about a tubular member.
9. The portable display arrangement of claim 7 , where the ends of the storage cavity define recesses for supporting the ends of the roll.
10. The portable display arrangement of claim 7 , wherein the plurality of tubular members are disposed below the roll.
11. The portable display arrangement of claim 6 , wherein the storage container has a maximum length of approximately 119 inches, a maximum height of approximately 12 inches and a maximum width of approximately 11 inches.
12. The portable display arrangement of claim 6 , wherein the shipping container includes a handle proximate one end and a pair of wheels proximate the other end.
13. A method of shipping a display arrangement, the display arrangement having a plurality of flexible display panels, the method comprising the steps of:
providing a storage container defining a storage cavity;
wrapping the plurality of flexible display panels about a common axis to define a roll;
supporting the roll within the storage container; and
shipping the storage container.
14. The method of shipping a display arrangement of claim 13 , wherein the step of wrapping the plurality of flexible display panels about a common axis to define a roll includes the step of stacking the flexible display panels.
15. The method of shipping a display arrangement of claim 13 , further comprising the step of providing a tubular member, and wherein the step of wrapping the plurality of flexible display panels about a common axis to define a roll includes the step of wrapping the plurality of flexible display panels about the tubular member.
16. The method of shipping a display arrangement of claim 15 , wherein the step of supporting the roll within the storage container includes the step of supporting the tubular member within the storage container.
17. The method of shipping a display arrangement of claim 13 , wherein the step of supporting the roll within the storage container includes the step of supporting the roll within the storage container above a floor of the storage cavity.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/183,010 US20060011798A1 (en) | 2004-07-16 | 2005-07-15 | Conerence branding system and related method |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US58896404P | 2004-07-16 | 2004-07-16 | |
US11/183,010 US20060011798A1 (en) | 2004-07-16 | 2005-07-15 | Conerence branding system and related method |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20060011798A1 true US20060011798A1 (en) | 2006-01-19 |
Family
ID=35907885
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/183,010 Abandoned US20060011798A1 (en) | 2004-07-16 | 2005-07-15 | Conerence branding system and related method |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
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US (1) | US20060011798A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2006019873A2 (en) |
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US789707A (en) * | 1904-02-27 | 1905-05-16 | Charles J Bellamy | Method of forming rolls of sheets of paper or other flexible material. |
US2864493A (en) * | 1957-09-04 | 1958-12-16 | Eastern Box Company | Dispensing containers |
US5551178A (en) * | 1995-01-19 | 1996-09-03 | Flexsign Inc. | Collapsible sign |
US5517803A (en) * | 1995-04-04 | 1996-05-21 | Ferag Ag | Method for producing tubular packs from printed products |
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US20040134820A1 (en) * | 2002-12-27 | 2004-07-15 | Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd. | Roll support member and recording material package employing same |
US20050160648A1 (en) * | 2004-01-28 | 2005-07-28 | Voluckas Stanley A. | Display system for suspending visuals for exhibit, training or advertising |
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2006019873A3 (en) | 2007-05-18 |
WO2006019873A2 (en) | 2006-02-23 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: STAGING OPTICS, INC., MICHIGAN Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:SIMMONS, STEVEN P.;REEL/FRAME:016787/0172 Effective date: 20050714 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |