GB2621201A

GB2621201A - Picture frame

Info

Publication number: GB2621201A
Application number: GB2215341.5A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Glen Morrish Edward; Morrish John; Peter Morrish Mark
Original assignee: John Morrish Ltd; Millbrook Mouldings Ltd
Current assignee: John Morrish Ltd; Millbrook Mouldings Ltd
Priority date: 2020-09-08
Filing date: 2021-04-12
Publication date: 2024-02-07
Also published as: GB202014087D0; GB2598652B; GB2598652A; GB202215341D0; GB202105215D0; GB202215157D0; GB2598652A8; GB2598652B8; GB2621201A8

Abstract

A picture frame 2 comprising a frame portion 12 and a carrier portion 10, one of the frame or carrier portions comprising one or more coupling protrusions 74 and the other of the frame or carrier portions comprising one or more complimentary cut outs 72 to receive a coupling protrusion, wherein the coupling protrusions and cut outs engage each other to locate the frame on the carrier portion in an assembled configuration in which a picture member 4 is supported. The tips 92 (fig 3) of the protrusions face an interior surface of the frame or carrier portion, and the fixing protrusions and apertures progressively engage each other as the carrier portion and frame portion are brought together in a depth direction orthogonal to the picture. Also provided is a method of assembling such a picture frame.

Description

PICTURE FRAME

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to picture frames to frame a picture. BACKGROUND Picture frames provide a protective and decorative edging for a picture, which can include a painting or photograph. The picture frame can be configured to attach to a wall and/or to stand up on a surface. It is becoming increasingly popular to display pictures with picture frames, particularly as users of mobile phones are frequently taking pictures with these devices.

A conventional picture frame is made of wood or metal. These frames can be expensive to produce due to the quantity and expense of the materials required. They may also be time consuming to fit to a picture, for example, the picture may have to be cut to a particular size and/or mounted to a carrier, which is then clamped to the frame. Conventional picture frames are therefore not suitable for mass production.

Therefore, in spite of the effort already invested in the development of said picture frames further improvements are desirable. In particular, it is desirable to provide a cost effective picture frame that is suitable for mass production.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure provides a picture frame to support a picture member. In embodiments, the picture frame comprises a frame portion and a carrier portion, which in an assembled configuration connect together to support a picture member.

In embodiments, the picture member is supported at opposed faces, e.g. the carrier portion supports a back face of the picture member and the frame portion supports a front face of the picture member. By implementing the carrier portion and the picture member to support opposed faces, the picture member may be conveniently sandwiched in position as the carrier portion and front portion are brought together in to the assembled configuration. In embodiments, the picture member is only supported at a single face.

In embodiments, one of the frame portion or the carrier portion comprises a first engagement member, and the other of the frame portion or the carrier portion comprises a complimentary second engagement member to engage the first engagement member, the first and second engagement member are arranged to engage each other to locate the frame portion on the carrier portion in an assembled configuration in which a picture member is supported therebetween.

In embodiments, the first engagement member is arranged to engage the second engagement member as the carrier portion and frame portion are brought together in a depth direction to support the picture member in the assembled position.

In embodiments, the first engagement member and second engagement member are configured in the assembled position with a tip of the first engagement member at least partially within (including fully within) the second engagement member. By arranging the tip in the second engagement member, the tip may be concealed e.g. from being visible on an exterior surface of the back wall of the picture frame.

In embodiments, the first engagement member extends in the depth direction towards an interior surface (e.g. to face) of the other of the frame portion or the wall portion. By implementing the first engagement member to extend towards, e.g. such that a tip when inserted in a second engagement member points towards an interior surface, the first and second engagement member may be conveniently concealed within the frame.

As used here in the term "extend in the depth direction" may refer to any direction aligned to the depth direction and can therefore include an extension in the depth direction or an extension in the counter depth direction.

In embodiments, the first engagement member comprises one or more slats and the second engagement member comprises one or more complimentary (e.g. corresponding in shape to the slat) cut outs to receive a slat. The slats and cut outs may progressively engage each other as the carrier portion and frame portion are brought together in a direction orthogonal to the picture to support the picture member.

By implementing a slat and a cut out, the carrier portion and frame portion may be convenient to arrange in the assembled configuration, e.g. by inserting the slats into the cut outs. They may be particularly easy to assemble compared to a hole and a circular protrusion. Moreover, the slat and cut out may be structurally stabilizing when assembled together because of the high second moment of area along the major axis of the slat. They may be particularly structurally stabilizing compared to a hole and a circular protrusion.

As used herein the term "slat" or "ridge" or "elongate protrusion" may refer to an extension that extends with a cross-section when viewed orthogonal to the plane of the picture that is elongated in a major direction and comparatively thin in an orthogonal minor direction. A slat typically has a generally rectangular cross-section.

In embodiments, the slat extends in the depth direction from a base proximal (including at) an interior surface of an in-plane wall of the frame portion or the carrier portion to a tip that is distal said interior surface. In the assembled configuration the slat faces towards an interior surface of the other of the frame portion or the carrier portion.

In embodiments, the cut out extends from a base proximal (including at or separated from) an interior surface of an in-plane wall of the other of the frame portion or the carrier portion to a mouth that is distal said interior surface.

In embodiments, the slats and cut outs extend along the in-plane direction (e.g the direction orthogonal to which they are inserted into each other).

As used herein the term "in-plane wall" may refer to a wall that is aligned or substantially aligned to a plane of the picture member in the assembled configuration. As used herein the term "interior face" or "interior surface" may refer to a face of a wall that in the assembled configuration is arranged as an interior surface, e.g. it is not visible from an exterior of the picture frame.

In embodiments, the or each cut out is arranged in a protrusion that extends in the depth direction from an interior surface of an in-plane wall of the carrier portion or the frame portion. By forming the cut out in a dedicated protrusion an amount of material used may be conserved compared to having an entire section as a solid member in which multiple cut outs are formed. In particular, the protrusion may extend from an interior surface of a backwall of the carrier portion towards an interior surface of a front wall of the frame portion in the assembled position or from an interior surface of a front wall of the frame portion towards an interior surface of a back wall of the carrier portion in the assembled position.

In embodiments, a base of the or each slat and/or a base of the or each protrusion is connected to a recess that is arranged on an interior surface of a wall of the carrier portion or the frame portion, wherein the recess is dimensioned that, as a material forming the frame portion or the carrier portion is solidified, an adjacent (e.g. a proximal portion of the exterior surface arranged directly opposed to the recess) exterior surface of the wall is not indented (as a result of said connection).

By implementing a recess in the interior surface of an exterior wall of the picture frame where the slat or the protrusion connects thereto, as the material forming these components cools (e.g. following an injection moulding process) an undesirable effect of the slat or protrusion pulling the exterior surface inward to form unsightly indents may be avoided because the amount of material proximal said connection is more balanced (e.g. the additional material of the connection is countered by the reduced material of the recess) to that distal the connection. The exterior wall may be a front wall of the frame portion or a black wall of the carrier portion.

In embodiments, the protrusion is connected to an interior surface of a side wall of the other of the frame portion or the carrier portion. The side wall may be a side wall of the carrier portion, and may be an internal or exterior side wall. By connecting the protrusion to a side wall (e.g. along a face of the protrusion that extends in a depth direction) a structural rigidity of the side wall may be increased.

In embodiments, the or each slat is connected to an interior surface of a side wall of the frame portion or the carrier portion. The side wall may be a side wall of the frame portion that forms a side of the picture frame. By connecting the slat to a side wall (e.g. along a face of the slat that extends in a depth direction) a structural rigidity of the side wall may be increased.

In embodiments, proximal the interior surface of the side wall, the slat or the protrusion has a reduced cross-section compared to a larger cross-section distal the side wall, wherein the reduced cross-section is dimensioned that as a material forming the frame portion or the carrier portion is solidified an adjacent (e.g. a proximal portion of the exterior surface arranged directly opposed to the recess) exterior surface of the side wall is not indented (as a result of said connection).

By having a reduced cross-section proximal the connection, as the material forming these components cools (e.g. following an injection moulding process), an undesirable effect of the slat or protrusion pulling the exterior surface inward to form unsightly indents may be reduced/avoided because the amount of material proximal said connection is more balanced (e.g. the additional material of the connection reduced by the reduced cross-section portion). Moreover, the reduced cross-section may reduce material wastage whilst optimising second moment of inertia.

In embodiments, the or each cut out is arranged, in the assembled position, not to engage the reduced cross-section portion of the slat. By implementing the cut out not to contact a reduced cross-section portion of the slat, damage to the more vulnerable reduced cross-section portion of the slat may be avoided. Moreover, precise alignment of the reduced cross-section portion of the slat and cut out may be obviated. The term "cross section of the slat" in this instance may refer to the cross section along a plane defined by the depth direction and perpendicular to a direction along which the tip extends.

In embodiments, the or each cut out is arranged to engage, in the assembled position, a larger cross-section portion of a slat. By implementing the cut out to contact a larger cross-section portion of the slat, the slat may be easier to align with the cut out for insertion.

In embodiments, in the assembled position the cut out partially engages a larger cross-section portion of the slat. By implementing the cut out to engage not all of the slat, the slat may be easier to insert into the cut out. Said partial engagement may be achieved by a removed section of a cavity of the cut out and may be achieved by a tip or a side face of the slat only engaging part of the cut out.

In embodiments, a tip of the or each slat is profiled along major edges and/or minor edges axis to aid progressive insertion of the or each slat into the or each cut out. The profiling may be implemented as a chamfer, curved or other surface. By profiling said surface in this manner, the slat may be easier to insert into the cut out.

In embodiments, the cut out is formed in a first wall (e.g. as a notch, which may be straight through) and is formed in a second wall (e.g. as a notch, which may be straight through), which may be arranged perpendicular to the first wall. The formation of the cut out in two adjoining walls may provide a convenient formation of the cut out. The first and second wall can comprise the protrusion.

In embodiments, the slat is elongate perpendicular to the depth direction (e.g. in a direction along the tip, which may be the longitudinal or lateral direction depending on which portion of the carrier portion or frame portion the slat is arranged on).

In embodiments, the slat extends along a tip axis and is linear along said direction of extension. By having a straight slat, the slat may be convenient to form and insert into the cut out.

In embodiments, the slat extends along a tip axis and extends along said direction with a first linear portion connected to a second linear portion. The first linear portion may extend perpendicular to the second linear portion. With an arrangement of the slat having a first linear portion and a second linear portion angled thereto, the slat and cut out when engaged may provide enhanced resistance to a pull out force/moment.

In embodiments, the slat includes an end surface that extends in the depth direction from a base of the slat to a tip of the slat, wherein in the assembled position the end surface abuts a corresponding end surface of the cut out. By implementing an end surface of the cut out to abut the end surface of the slat (e.g. in addition to the side faces of the slat) structural rigidity may be increased. The end surface may be defined as the furthest face of the slat from the side wall to which it is connected. In the example of a linear slat the end surface is interposed between two opposed side surfaces. In the example of a slat with the first portion and the second portion the end surface is the side surfaces of the second portion that faces away from the first portion.

In embodiments, the slat and cut out interlock (e.g. they fit to each other) in the assembled position to provide a continuous structure between: an interior surface of a side wall of the frame portion and an interior surface of a side wall of the carrier portion, and/or; an interior surface of a front wall of the front portion and an interior surface of a back wall of the carrier portion (e.g. by a tip of the slat engaging with a base of the cut out). The side wall may be an exterior side wall or an internal side wall.

By implementing a continuous structure between said walls (e.g. there are no gaps) the frame portion and carrier portion may have increased structural rigidity. Moreover, although the picture frame is hollow, it may have the feel of a solid picture frame at the location of the slats and cut outs.

In embodiments, the slats and cut outs are arranged to extend orthogonal to a proximal peripheral edge of the picture member in the assembled position. In the example, of the slat comprising the first linear portion and the second linear portion, only the first linear portion has said arrangement.

In embodiments, a tip of the or each protrusion of the carrier portion comprises an engagement member arranged to interlock (e.g. it fits together with a part of the frame portion) with the frame portion in an inverted position (e.g. a position wherein the frame portion is arranged upside down relative to the carrier portion to a position it is in when they are in when in the assembled configuration). By implementing an engagement member to fit to the frame portion, the frame portion may be conveniently stacked on top of the carrier portion with the frame portion arranged in the inverted position. Such a stacked position may be useful during manufacturing and/or transit. In a similar manner a tip of the or each protrusion of the frame portion comprises an engagement member arranged to interlock the carrier portion in an inverted position.

In embodiments, the engagement member is arranged to engage a rim that extends in the depth direction from the front wall and to engage an interior edge of the front wall of the front portion. By arranging the engagement member to engage these portions, the engagement member may not engage an exterior surface of the front wall which could imprint undesirable marks on the front wall.

In embodiments, in the assembled position the frame portion and a carrier portion abut opposed sides of a picture member to enclose edges of the picture member, and the carrier portion is arranged to engage or includes a support member (e.g. a hook) to support the picture frame.

The present disclosure provides a picture frame comprises a wall defining a hollow interior portion; the wall (e.g. a back wall thereof) comprising at an interior surface a protrusion extending into the hollow interior portion, the protrusion defining at an exterior surface a first engagement portion, in a supported position, the first engagement portion to engage with a complimentary second engagement portion of a stand, wherein in the supported position, the stand and picture frame arranged to abut a support surface.

By implementing a protrusion that extends into the interior of a hollow picture frame, the first engagement portion may sit flush or in close proximity of a back wall of the picture frame. In this way the first engagement portion may not interfere with the position of the picture frame when it is alliteratively mounted to a wall. Moreover, a stand may be conveniently inserted into the recess defined by the protrusion to support the picture frame on a support surface, such as shelf or a table.

In embodiments, the protrusion is isolated from: a front wall that has an exterior surface arranged as the font of the picture frame, and/or; a side wall that has an exterior surface arranged as an exterior side of the picture frame, and/or; a side wall that has an exterior surface arranged as an interior side of the picture frame and which is arranged in front of a supported picture member.

By implementing the protrusion to be isolated (e.g. it is not formed integrally with or is not structurally connected to, including directly connected to) the walls of the picture frame that are visible from the front of the picture frame, any flexing of these walls due to the stand may prevented. Moreover, indentation of these walls due to cooling of the material mass of the protrusion may also be prevented.

In embodiments, the protrusion is arranged to abut and locate a back face of the picture member. By arranging the protrusion to abut a back face of a supported picture member, the protrusion may have the combined effect of providing a recess of the first engagement portion and locating the picture member on the picture frame.

In embodiments, the picture frame comprises a frame portion and a carrier portion, which in an assembled configuration connect together to form the hollow portion and support a picture member, the first engagement portion of the picture frame arranged on a back wall of the carrier portion.

In embodiments, the protrusion is connected to a side wall of the carrier member which may be arranged behind a supported picture member. By connecting the protrusion to a side wall, the structural rigidity may be improved. By connecting to a side wall of the carrier member that is arranged behind the back face of the picture member, any flexing of the side wall due to the stand and/or indentation of the side wall due to cooling may be concealed when viewing the picture frame from the front.

In embodiments, the first engagement portion is arranged as a recess with a slot shaped mouth, wherein the slot is arranged with a major axis aligned in a vertical direction to enable a stand to move in said direction to adjust a supporting angle of the picture frame on the support surface. A base of the recess may be circular and may correspond with a cylindrical stand. By implementing a recess with a slot shaped mouth that extends to a circular base, the stand can be flexed in recess up and down to change the angle of a picture frame on a support surface.

The present disclosure provides a picture frame of any preceding embodiment or another embodiment disclosed herein and the stand.

In embodiments, the stand comprises the second engagement portion at either end. By implementing the second engagement portion at either end of the stand, either end of the stand may be inserted into the recess of the first engagement portion.

In embodiments, the second engagement portion is axisymmetric, e.g. about and elongate axis. By implementing the second engagement portion as rotationally symmetric, e.g. one or more of: cylindrical, conical, frustoconical; other shape, the stand may conveniently be inserted into the recess in any rotational position.

In embodiments, one or both of the first and second engagement member is tapered, such that the engagement increases progressively as the stand is inserted into the recess. By implementing tapering, e.g. an interference fit, the initial insertion of the stand may be easier and become progressively harder.

The present disclosure provides a picture member for a picture frame, the picture member comprising: a picture article and a carrier for supporting the picture article. The carrier corresponding in shape (e.g. such that the geometry of the carrier matches, including a substantially matches, e.g. within 2 mm or 5mm, that of the picture article) to the picture article such that in a carrying position the edges of the picture article and carrier are aligned (including substantially aligned, e.g. within 2 mm or 5 mm); the picture article comprises a picture face and a back face, the back face comprising a identifier (e.g. an optically readable code) that may encode picture information, and the carrier comprises a viewing window, wherein the viewing window and the identifier are arranged with the identifier visible though the viewing window when the carrier and picture article are orientated in one of a plurality of possible orientations in the carrying position.

By aligning the identifier and viewing window on the picture article and carrier respectively, it may be ensured that when the picture article is arranged on the carrier in a correct position, the identifier is visible through the viewing window, and when not in said correct position the identifier is not visible. In this way it may be ensured that the picture article is in the correct orientation when looking at the back of the picture member to see if the identifier is visible. This may be particularly useful during an assembly process wherein the picture member is dropped into the picture frame (e.g. a frame portion thereof) face down.

In embodiments, the viewing window is a through hole. By implementing the viewing window as a through hole (e.g. a hole straight though the carrier) the viewing window may be easily formed, e.g. by stamping.

In embodiments, the carrier includes a flap to open and close the viewing window. By implementing a flap, the viewing window may be closed to obscure the identifier, which may be more visually appealing.

The present disclosure provides a picture frame and the picture member of any preceding embodiment, or another embodiment disclosed herein, the picture frame arranged to support the picture member in an assembled position, wherein the picture frame includes a blocking portion arranged to at least partially overlap the viewing window of a supported picture member in an incorrect orientation of the picture member in the picture frame and not to overlap the viewing window of the picture member in a correct orientation of the picture member in the picture frame.

By implementing the blocking portion on the picture frame to overlap the identifier of the picture member when the picture member is arranged in the frame in the incorrect position, it may be ensured that the picture member is arranged in the correct position in the frame when viewing the picture frame from the back. This may be particularly useful during an assembly process wherein the picture member is dropped into the picture frame (e.g. a frame portion thereof) face down.

In embodiments, the blocking portion is arranged as a support member for receiving an adhesive strip to adhere the picture frame to a wall. By implementing the blocking portion also to carry an adhesive strip, less material may be wasted.

The present disclosure provides a picture frame comprising a frame portion and a carrier portion, one of the frame portion or the carrier portion comprising a first engagement member, and the other of the frame portion or the carrier portion comprising a complimentary second engagement member to engage the first engagement member, the first and second engagement member engage each other to locate the frame portion on the carrier portion in an assembled configuration in which a picture member is supported, wherein first and second engagement member interlock in the assembled position to provide a continuous structure between an interior surface of a side wall of the front portion and an interior surface of a side wall of the carrier portion. In embodiments, the first engagement member is a protrusion and the second engagement is a recess. In embodiments, the recess is arranged in a protrusion that extends from an interior surface of an in-plane wall of the carrier portion or the frame portion. The picture frame may include any feature of the preceding embodiments or another embodiment disclosed herein.

The present disclosure provides a picture frame comprising a frame portion and a carrier portion, which in an assembled position supports a picture member, the carrier portion and/or frame portion comprising a protrusion, a tip of the or each protrusion of the carrier portion comprises an engagement member arranged to interlock with the frame portion in an inverted position, wherein the frame portion is inverted in respect to the assembled position or; a tip of the or each protrusion of the frame portion comprises an engagement member arranged to interlock the frame portion in the inverted position. The picture frame may include any feature of the preceding embodiments or another embodiment disclosed herein. In embodiments, the engagement member is arranged to engage a rim that extends from the front wall and an interior edge of the front wall of the front portion. In embodiments, the engagement member is arranged as a step, with an base portion that is angled to an in-plane direction and a side portion that is angled to a depth direction The present disclosure provides a picture frame of the preceding embodiments or another embodiment disclosed herein and a corresponding picture member.

The present disclosure provides use of the picture frame of any preceding embodiment or another embodiment disclosed herein for framing a picture.

The present disclosure provides use of the picture member of any preceding embodiment, or another embodiment disclosed herein, for a picture frame.

The present disclosure provides a method framing a picture, the method comprising: arranging a picture member between a frame portion and a carrier portion; inserting a slat of one of the frame portion or the carrier portion of a frame into a cut out of the other of one of the frame portion or the carrier portion. The method may implement any feature of the preceding embodiments or another embodiment disclosed herein.

The present disclosure provides a method of supporting a picture frame comprising engaging a first engagement portion of the picture frame with a complimentary second engagement member of a stand, wherein the first engagement portion is arranged as a recess in a hollow portion of the picture frame. The method may implement any feature of the preceding embodiments or another embodiment disclosed herein.

The present disclosure provides a method of framing a picture, the method comprising: arranging a carrier to carry a picture article with a back face of the picture article carrying an identifier that is visible through a viewing window of the carrier. In embodiments, the method comprises arranging a picture frame to support the picture member. In embodiments, the method comprises arranging the picture member with a front face to abut a frame portion of the picture member and arranging a carrier member of the picture member to abut the back face of the picture member. In embodiments, the method comprises arranging the picture member in the picture frame in a position where a blocking member of the picture frame not to overlap the viewing window of the picture member. In embodiments, the method comprises machine reading the identifier of the picture member, e.g. when assembled in the picture frame. By introducing a step of reading the identifier of the assembled picture frame and picture member it may be ensured that they have been assembled in the correct manner, e.g. if they have not been assembled correctly then the identifier cannot be read. In embodiments, the method comprises reading the code with the identifier reader arranged in a fixed position, which may be to read a position of the carrier proximal a laterally extending portion of the back wall that does not comprise the blocking portion. By implement a fixed reading position for the identifier reader, it can be ensured that the code is not read for orientations wherein the blocking member does not overlap the viewing window but the picture member is still incorrectly orientated in the picture frame. The method may comprise reading the identifier prior to dispatch of the picture frame and picture member from a first location of assembly to a second location, e.g. a customer location. The identifier may encode a delivery address for the picture frame and picture member, such that it cannot be dispatched without the identifier being read.

The present disclosure provides a method of assembling a picture frame comprising forming a continuous structure between an interior surface of a side wall of the front portion and an interior surface of a side wall of the carrier portion by engaging a first engagement member of one of the frame portion or the carrier portion with a second engagement member of the other of the frame portion or the carrier portion. The method may implement any feature of the preceding embodiments or another embodiment disclosed herein.

The present disclosure provides a method of stacking a frame portion and a carrier portion of a picture frame, the method comprising: inverting the frame portion; interlocking the frame portion with an engagement member of a protrusion carrier portion. The method may implement any feature of the preceding embodiments or another embodiment disclosed herein.

The preceding summary is provided for purposes of summarizing some embodiments to provide a basic understanding of aspects of the subject matter described herein. Accordingly, the above-described features are merely examples and should not be construed to narrow the scope or spirit of the subject matter described herein in any way. Moreover, the above and/or proceeding embodiments may be combined in any suitable combination to provide further embodiments. Other features, aspects, and advantages of the subject matter described herein will become apparent from the following Detailed Description, Figures, and Claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Aspects, features and advantages of embodiments of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following description of embodiments in reference to the appended drawings in which like numerals denote like elements.

Figure 1 is a perspective exploded view showing an embodiment picture frame and picture member.

Figure 2 is a perspective view showing a section of a carrier portion of the picture frame of figure 1.

Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a section of a frame portion of the picture frame of figure 1.

Figure 4 is a perspective view showing an alternative embodiment picture frame.

Figure 5 is a perspective view showing a plurality of stacked carrier portions and frame portions of the picture frame of figure 1.

Figure 6 is a perspective view showing a stand and a carrier portion of the picture frame of figure 1 Figure 7 is a perspective view showing a close up of a recess of the carrier portion of the picture frame of figure 1.

Figure 8 is a perspective view showing a stand for use with the carrier portion of the picture frame of figure 1.

Figure 9 is a plan view showing a carrier of a picture member of figure 1.

Figure 10 is a plan view showing a back face of a picture article of a picture member of figure 1. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS Before describing several embodiments of the picture frame assembly, it is to be understood that the picture frame assembly is not limited to the details of construction or process steps set forth in the following description. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the present disclosure that the system is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or being carried out in various ways.

The present disclosure may be better understood in view of the following explanations: As used herein the term "picture" or "picture member" may refer to an item comprising a picture article that is suitable for display in a picture frame, it can include: a photo; artwork that can include a painting; or other article. The picture article may comprise a picture face that presents the picture and a back face which is on an opposed face to the picture face. The picture member may include a carrier, e.g. a backing board, to support the article, which may be arranged behind the picture article when framed. The carrier can include one or more of: a hard board; foam; or other backing material. The picture and the carrier may be integrally formed, e.g. it is printed onto the carrier. The picture article may include a protective light transmissive member to protect the picture article whilst enabling the picture article to be viewed through the light transmissive member. The protective light transmissive member can include one or more of: a glass; plastic, including PerspexTM; a protective coating, including a lacquer of membrane; or other material. The picture and the protective light transmissive member may be integrally formed.

As used herein the term "picture frame" may refer to a support structure for the picture. The picture frame may provide a protective and/or decorative edging for a picture. The picture frame may be formed of any suitable material, including one or more of: a metal based material; a plastic based material, which can include a polystyrene; PVC; ABS; acrylic; other material. The picture frame may be formed by any suitable technique for forming a structure from the relevant material. For a plastic based material it may be formed by one or more of: injection moulding; extrusion; machining from a solid material; other forming process. The picture frame may be arranged to frame pictures of size of about 8 x 8 or 5 x 7 or 12 x 12 inches. The picture frame can include a frame portion and a carrier portion that can be separable or integrally formed.

As used herein the term "frame portion" may refer to a portion of the picture frame that implements a frame at the edges of the picture.

As used herein the term "carrier portion" may refer to a portion of the picture frame that is arranged to engage with or includes a support member to support the picture frame. The carrier portion may carry the frame portion.

As used herein the term "assembled configuration" may refer to the frame portion assembled together to support a picture As used herein the term "picture frame assembly" may refer to a picture as defined herein supported by the picture frame as defined herein in the assembled configuration. In a similar manner the term "framed" in respect of a picture may refer to the picture as part of the picture frame assembly.

As used herein the term "identifier" may refer to an object that can be identified, such as a graphical image or a code. As used herein the term "code" may refer information, e.g. picture information as defined herein, which is encoded with a set of rules. The code may be an optical code, including a barcode, OR code or other code that is machine readable.

As used herein the term "picture information" may comprise any information related to the picture. It may include one or more of: the manufacturer; shipping address; customer identifier; date of order; order number; order date.

General components of picture frame and picture member Referring to figure 1, a picture frame 2 in a disassembled configuration and a picture member 4 are illustrated. The picture member 4 includes a picture article 6 and carrier 8. The picture frame 2 includes a carrier portion 10 and a frame portion 12.

The picture frame 2 and picture member 4 are aligned in an in-plane direction, which is defined by a longitudinal direction 100 and a lateral direction 102, which are both orthogonal to a depth direction 104. The picture frame 2 and picture member 4 are assembled in the depth direction 104 as will be discussed.

The picture article 6 includes a picture face 14 and a back face 16 (not shown in figure 1). The carrier 8 includes a back face 18 and a carrying face (not shown in figure 1).

Carrier portion The carrier portion 10 includes a back wall 22. The back wall 22 is aligned to the in-plane direction. The back wall 22 includes an exterior surface 24 and interior surface 26. The exterior surface 24 may in wall mounted examples abut or be contiguous a wall (not illustrated). In a picture frame 2 in an assembled configuration (not shown in figure 1) the back wall 22 is the only visible wall of the carrier portion 10.

The carrier portion 10 includes side walls, which are arranged as a longitudinal side wall 28 and a lateral side wall 30, which are aligned to respective longitudinal 100 and lateral 102 directions. The side walls 28, 30 include an exterior surface 32 and interior surface 34.

The carrier portion 10 includes a front wall 36, which in the example is illustrated as a rim of the longitudinal side wall 28 and a lateral side wall 30. The front wall 36 is aligned to the in-plane direction.

The back wall 22 implements a fixing portion 38 to carry an adhesive strip (not illustrated) for bonding the picture frame 2 to a wall (not illustrated). The fixing portion 38 is a portion of enlarged surface area arranged at the exterior surface 24.

The side walls 28, 30 and back wall 22 adjoin each other such that the side walls 28, 30 extend orthogonally from the interior surface 26 and at an interior edge 40 of the back wall 22. The back wall 22 includes a aperture that is defined by the interior edge 40. In the assembled configuration (not illustrated in figure 1) an exterior edge 42 of the back wall 22 is generally covered by the side walls of the frame portion (as will be discussed), such that only the exterior surface 26 is visible.

In variant embodiments of the carrier portion, which are not illustrated: the fixing portion is omitted; the back wall and/or front wall may be inclined so that it is not aligned in the in-plane direction; the side walls may be alternatively arranged such that they are not aligned in the lateral and longitudinal directions, e.g. for picture frames of other shapes, including as circular or triangular or another shape; the side walls may also be inclined to the depth direction, e.g. by 2-10 degrees; the aperture in the back wall may be omitted; the fixing portion may be implemented as an aperture or a hook to engage with the fixture in the wall.

Frame portion The frame portion 12 includes a front wall 50. The front wall 50 is aligned to the in-plane direction. The front wall 50 includes an exterior surface 52 and interior surface 54. In the assembled configuration, the exterior surface 52 forms a front face of the picture frame 2 and the interior surface 54 faces the carrier portion 10 as will be discussed.

The front portion 12 includes side walls, which are arranged as a longitudinal side wall 56 and a lateral side wall 58, which are aligned to respective longitudinal 100 and lateral 102 directions. The side walls 56, 58 include an exterior surface 60 and interior surface 62. In the assembled configuration, the exterior surface 60 forms a side face of the picture frame 2.

The front portion 12 includes a back wall 64, which in the example is illustrated as a rim of the longitudinal side wall 56 and a lateral side wall 58. The back wall 64 is aligned to the in-plane direction.

The side walls 56, 58 and front wall 50 adjoin each other such that the side walls 56, 58 extend orthogonally from the interior surface 54 and at an exterior edge 66 of the front wall 50. The front wall 50 includes an aperture that is defined by the interior edge 68, though which the picture article 6 is viewed. The interior edge 68 of the front wall 50 includes a rim 70 that extends in the depth direction 104 to abut the picture member 4 when supported (not illustrated in figure 1).

In variant embodiments of the frame portion, which are not illustrated: the front wall and/or side wall may be inclined so that it is not aligned in the in-plane direction; the side walls may be alternatively arranged such that they are not aligned in the lateral and longitudinal directions, e.g. for picture frames of other shapes, including as circular or triangular or another shape; the side walls may also be inclined to the depth direction, e.g. by 2-10 degrees.

Assembly of Carrier portion and Frame portion The carrier portion 10 and frame portion 12 are assembled together in an assembled configuration (not illustrated) to form the picture frame 2. In particular, in the assembled configuration the side walls 28,30 of the carrier portion 10 are arranged opposed to the side walls 56, 58 of the frame portion 12 and form respective interior and exterior side walls of the picture frame 2 and the back wall 22 of the carrier portion 10 is arranged opposed to the front wall 50 of the frame portion 12 and form respective back and front walls of the picture frame 2. The picture frame 2 therefore has a hollow interior defined by the front, back and side walls.

The rim 70 of the front portion 12 abuts the exterior face 14 of the picture article 6 and the front wall 36 of the carrier portion 10 abuts the back face 18 of the carrier 8. The picture member 4 is therefore sandwiched between the carrier portion 10 and frame portion 12.

In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: the carrier portion and frame portion are integrated as a single component, e.g. the picture member inserts into the back of the single component and a fixing system (e.g. an adhesive or clamping system) connects the picture member to the picture frame.

Slat and cut out system One of the frame portion 12 or the carrier portion 10 comprises a first engagement member, and the other of the frame portion 12 or the carrier portion 10 comprises a complimentary second engagement member to engage the first engagement member. The first and second engagement member are arranged to engage each other to locate and retain the frame portion 12 on the carrier portion 10 in the assembled configuration. Examples of the first and second engagement member will now be provided.

A first example of the engagement members is provided in figures 1 to 3. Referring to figures 1 and 2 the carrier portion 10 comprises a first engagement member, which is arranged as cut outs 72. Referring to figures 1 and 3 the frame portion 12 comprises a second engagement member, which is arranged as slats 74. The cut out 72 and slat 74 engage each other to locate the frame portion 12 on the carrier portion 10 in an assembled configuration (not illustrated) in which the picture member 4 can be supported.

Cut outs Referring to figures 1 and 2, a cut out 72 is arranged in a protrusion 76 that extends in the depth direction 104 from a base 78 at the interior surface 26 of the back wall 22 to a tip 80 that faces the interior surface 54 of the front wall of the frame portion 50. A base 82 of the cut out is arranged proximal the base 78 of the protrusion. A mouth 84 of the cut out is arranged at the tip 80 of the protrusion 76.

The cut out 72 extends (i.e. in the direction orthogonal to which the slat is inserted) along a longitudinal 100 or lateral 102 direction based on whether it is arranged on a respective lateral or longitudinal portion of the back wall 22. The protrusion 76 is connected to an interior surface 34 of the side walls 28, 30.

The cut out 72 includes an end surface 87 that engages with a corresponding end surface of a slat 74 as will be discussed. The cut out 72 includes discrete opposed side walls 88, which engage side faces of the slat 74 as will be discussed.

Referring to figure 2, the protrusion 76 is formed by a first wall 77 and a second wall 79. The first wall 77 extends 1) from and is perpendicular to the interior surface 34 of the side walls 28, 30, and 2) from and is perpendicular to the interior surface 26 of the back wall 22. The first wall 77 includes an open-ended notch to define the cut out 72 and the end surface 87 thereof The second wall 79 is 1) perpendicular to the first wall 77, and 2) is perpendicular to the interior surface 26 of the back wall 22. The second wall 79 includes a notch to define the cut out 72 and the opposed side walls 88 thereof. The notches of the first wall 77 and second wall 79 therefore adjoin each other to form the cut out 72.

In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: the protrusion is integrated as one single portion; the base of the cut out is arranged at the base of the protrusion; the cut out extends along other trajectories to the longitudinal and lateral directions, e.g. diagonally; the protrusion may be arranged in a recess to avoid indentation of the back wall as the material cools as is discussed for the slat; the protrusion may connected to the side wall at a reduced cross-section avoid indentation of the side wall as the material cools as is discussed for the slat; the protrusion is not connect to the side wall; the cut out and slat (discussed following) may also be alternatively configured, including: as a cylinder that inserts into a circular cavity; a square section that insets into a square hole; or as another shape. Slat

Referring to figures 1 and 3, a slat 74 extends in the counter depth direction 104 from a base 90 at the interior surface 54 of the front wall 50 of the frame portion 12 to a tip 92 that faces the interior surface 26 of the back wall 22 of the carrier portion 10.

The slat 74 extends (i.e. in the direction orthogonal to which the slat is inserted) along a longitudinal 100 or lateral 102 direction based on whether it is arranged on a respective lateral or longitudinal portion of the front wall 50. The slat 74 is connected to an interior surface 62 of the side walls 56, 58.

The slat 74 may be considered elongate along a tip axis T as opposed to its with W. The slat 74 extends along a linear tip axis T. The slat 74 is arranged with a reduced cross-section portion 94 proximal the side walls 56, 58 and a larger cross-section portion 96 distal the side wall 56, 58, wherein the cross-section is the in-plane cross-section. The cross-section of both portions is generally rectangular, with a width of the reduced cross-section portion 94 being less than 50% or 30% of that of the large cross-section portion 96.. The geometry of the reduced cross-section portion 94 is selected so that the exterior surface 60 of the side wall 56, 58 is not indented as the material cools due to the connection of the slat 74 to the interior surface 62.

The tip 92 of the slat 74 is rounded along its edges, particularly those of the large cross-section portion 96 to aid progressive insertion of the slat 74 into the cut out 72. The slat 74 includes an exposed end surface 98 that extends from a base 90 to the tip 92 and is distal the side wall 56, 58.

The base 90 of the slat 74 is arranged in a recess 106 of the interior surface 54 of the front wall 50. The geometry of the recess 106 is selected so that an adjacent portion of the exterior surface 52 of the front wall 50 is not indented as the material cools due to the connection of the slat 74 to the interior surface 54.

In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: the slat has no reduced cross-section portion; or the reduced cross-section portion is the same size as the large cross-section portion; the slat extends along other trajectories to the longitudinal and lateral directions, e.g. diagonally; the slat is not arranged in a recess; the slat is not connect to the side wall; the slat has shapes other than along a linear tip axis.

Engagement of cut out and slat The slats 74 progressively engage the cut outs 72 as the as the carrier portion 10 and frame portion 12 are brought together in the depth direction 104 to support the picture member 4 in the assembled configuration (not shown in figures 1 -3).

In the assembled configuration the tip 92 of the slats 74 engages the base 82 of the cut outs 72. In this way there is a continuous structure in the depth direction 104, spanning between the interior surface 54 of the front wall 50 wall of the front portion 12 and the interior surface 26 of the back wall 22 of the carrier portion 10. Hence in the assembled configuration, the tip 92 of the slats 72 are concealed within the cut outs 72.

In the assembled configuration the end surface 98 of the slats 74 engages the end surface 87 of the cut outs 72. In this way there is a continuous structure in the longitudinal direction 104 /lateral direction 102, spanning between the interior surface 62 of the side wall 56, 58 wall of the front portion 12 and the interior surface 34 of the side wall 28,30 of the carrier portion 10.

In the assembled configuration, the opposed side walls 88 of the cut outs 72 engage side surfaces of the slats 74. A portion of the side surfaces of the slats 74 which is arranged between the opposed side walls 88 and end surface 87 of the cut out 72 is not engaged. In the assembled configuration, the cut out 72 does not engage the reduced cross-section portion 94 of the slat 74.

In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: none continuous structures are provide in one or more of the longitudinal direction, lateral direction and depth direction; the cut outs engage the reduced cross-section portion of the slat; the side walls of the cut outs do not engage the large cross-section portion of the slat; the cut outs do not contain a base and the tips of the slats extend partially or fully through the protrusion/cut outs.

A second example of the engagement members is provided in figure 4, which may incorporate any of the features disclosed in combination with the first example, which for brevity are not reiterated.

Referring to figure 4 the carrier portion 10 comprises a first engagement member, which is arranged as L-shaped slats 74, and the frame portion 12 comprises a second engagement member, which is arranged as corresponding L-shaped cut outs 72. The cut out 72 and slat 74 engage each other to locate the frame portion 12 on the carrier portion 10 in an assembled configuration (as illustrated) in which the picture member 4 (not illustrated in figure 4) can be supported.

The slat 74 is arranged as a first portion 81 and a second portion 83, which is angled to the first portion 81. The first portion 81 extends in the depth direction and also extends perpendicular to the interior surface 34 of the side wall 28, 30. The second portion 83 extends in the depth direction parallel to said side wall and therefore perpendicular to the first portion 81. An interface between the first portion 81 and second portion 83 is curved.

As for the first example, the cut out 72 is arranged in the first wall 77 and the second wall 79. However, since the slat 74 comprise an angled second portion 83, the end surface 98 of the slat that engages with the end surface 87 of the cut out 72 is a side wall of the second portion 83. Moreover, the notches in the first wall 77 and the second wall 79 that define the cut out 72 are offset (rather than adjoining as for the first example) to accommodate the [-shape of the slat 74.

The side wall (not illustrated in figure 4) of the frame portion 12 that the protrusion 76 engages with (i.e. the second wall 79 of the protrusion) may be the exterior side wall 56, 58 or an interior side wall implemented for additional bracing.

In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: the first and second portion are alternatively angled, e.g. at 45 or 135 degrees; the interface is not curved, it mat for example be linear.

It will be understood that an end surface 98 of a portion of the slat 74, which in the assembled configuration is not inserted in the cut out 72 acts as a locator to locate the picture member 8 on the front portion 12 by abutment of the edges of the picture member 8 with said portion of the end surface 98. Therefore the slat 74 is configured not to be fully insertable into the cut out 72 in the assembled configuration. Hence, as part of a method of assembly (as will be discussed), prior to arranging the picture frame in the assembled position the picture member 8 can be located on the frame portion 8 via said abutment.

In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: wherein the cut out is located on the frame portion a side surface of the protrusion can be used as an equivalent locator, and; the locator may be omitted, e.g. the slat is fully insertable into the cut out.

Stacking of carrier portion and frame portion Referring to figures 1, 2 and 5, the tip 80 of the protrusions 76 of the carrier portion 10 comprise an engagement member 108 arranged to interlock with the frame portion 12 in a stacked position (as shown in figure 5). In the stacked position, the frame portion 12 is placed upon the carrier portion 10 in an inverted position to the position it is arranged in when in the assembled configuration.

Referring to figures 1 and 2, the engagement member 108 is arranged as a step with a side portion 109 that is arranged generally in the depth direction 104, and angled at up to 10 degrees thereto. A base portion 111 of the step is arranged generally in thee in-plane direction and angled at up to at up to 20 degrees therefrom. The junction of the side portion 109 and base portion 111 therefore that abuts the interior edge 68 of the front portion 50 and the side portion 109 abuts and the side of the rim 70. In particular the engagement member 108 does not engage across the exterior surface 52 of the front face 50 to avoid marking it. This is achieved by angling of the base 111. Angling of the side portion 109 may facilitate easier stacking.

The engagement member 108 is arranged on a portion of the protrusion 76 which is infield of the cut out 72, i.e. closer to the picture member 4, the cut out 72.

In the stacked position the tip 92 of the slats 74 of the frame portion 12 that is stacked on the carrier portion 10 can abut the exterior surface 24 of a back wall 22 of another carrier portion 10 (not shown in figure 5) with the back wall 22 of the carrier portion 10 enclosed by the side walls 56,58 of the frame portion 12.

In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: the engagement member is alternatively profiled to locate the frame portion, e.g. it engages any one or more of the exterior surface of the front portion, the side of the rim, the interior edge; the base portion and/or the side portion may be alternatively angled, e.g. aligned to the respective in-plane and depth directions; the engagement member may be omitted; the engagement member may not be arranged infield of the cut out; the engagement member may be arranged on a dedicated protrusion that does not comprise the cut out.

Stand and recess Referring to figures 6 to 8, the carrier portion 10 comprises at the interior surface 26 of the back wall 22 a protrusion 110. The protrusion 110 defines at the exterior surface 24 a first engagement portion arranged as a recess 112. A stand 114 comprises a complimentary in shape second engagement portion arranged as a protrusion 116, which is arranged at either end of the stand 114. The protrusion 116 is circular in cross-section. With the protrusion 116 inserted in the recess 112 (shown in figure 7) the picture frame 2 can be stabilised by the stand 114 on a support surface (not illustrated), such as a table or a shelf.

The recess 112 does not extend beyond the exterior surface 24 of the back wall 22. The protrusion 110 is connected to the side wall 30 but does not connect to any other walls.

A tip 118 of the protrusion 110 is arranged to abut and locate a back face 18 of the picture member 4 (not shown in figure 6 to 8) when supported by the picture frame 2.

The recess 112 has a slot shaped mouth 120, wherein the slot is arranged with a major axis aligned in the longitudinal direction to enable a stand to move in said direction to adjust a supporting angle of the picture frame on the support surface. A base 122 of the recess 112 is circular. This arrangement allows the stand 114 to be flexed in recess 112 up and down to change the angle of a picture frame 2 on a support surface. It may also facilitate more convenient insertion of the stand.

The recess 112 is tapered to narrow from the mouth 120 to the base 122. In this way the engagement increases progressively as the protrusion 116 of the stand 114 is inserted into the recess 112. In this way an interference fit is provided to secure the stand to the picture frame 2.

In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated; the taper is provided on the protrusion of the stand and/or the recess or is not present; only one end of the stand has a second engagement member; the recess is arranged elsewhere on the carrier portion; the picture frame has an integrated carrier portion and frame portion; the first and second engagement members have alternative shapes, including square; conical; or other shape; the first engagement portion is arranged as a protrusion which fits in a recess of the second engagement portion; the protrusion is not connected to a side wall and/or does not abut the picture member.

Viewing window and identifier Referring to figures 10 and 11, the carrier 8 and picture article 6 of the picture member 4 correspond to each other in peripheral shape. The carrier 8 comprises a viewing window 124 arranged as a through hole. The picture article 6 comprises an identifier 126, which is exemplified as a barcode. The identifier 126 and viewing window 124 are rectangular in shape.

In a carrying position (not illustrated), the viewing windrow 124 and identifier 126 are aligned to each other such that when the peripheral edges of the carrier 8 and picture article 6 are aligned the identifier 126 is visible from the back face 18 of the carrier 8.

With the picture article 6 orientated in one of a plurality of possible orientations on the carrier 8 the identifier 126 is visible though the viewing window 124. In the example, the carrier 8 and picture article 6 are square. There are therefore four possible orientations of the picture article 6 on the carrier 8, with only one correct orientation wherein the identifier 126 is visible though the viewing window 124.

In another example, which is not illustrated, the carrier and picture article are rectangular with different length longitudinal and lateral edges. There are therefore two possible orientations of the picture article on the carrier, with only one correct orientation wherein the identifier is visible though the viewing window.

The alignment of the identifier 126 and viewing window 124 ensure that the picture article 6 can be determined to be arranged in the correct orientation on the carrier 8 when viewed from the back face 18 of the carrier 8.

In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: the carrier includes a flap to open and close the viewing window.

Referring to figure 1, the carrier portion 10 of the picture frame 2 includes a blocking portion 128. The blocking portion 128 is arranged on one portion of the back wall 22 that extends in the lateral direction 102, and protrudes into the aperture defined by the back wall 22 to a greater extent than the profile of the other portion of the back wall 22 that extends in the lateral direction 102.

It will be understood that the picture member 4 comprising the picture article 6 and carrier 8 of respective figures 10 and 9, which are arranged in the correct orientation, can be inserted into the picture frame 2 in four positions: in an incorrect position the blocking portion 128 overlaps the viewing window 124 of the picture member and the identifier cannot be read; in two further incorrection positions the blocking portion 128 does not overlap the viewing window 124 of the picture member but the identifier 128 is arranged proximal a longitudinally extending part of the back wall 22 (and the identifier is not readable by a code reader in a fixed position with respect to the frame); in a correct position the blocking portion 128 does not overlap the viewing window 124 of the picture member, such that the identifier 126 is machine readable from the back of the picture frame 2 proximal a longitudinally extending part of the back wall 22, (and the identifier is readable by the code reader arranged in the fixed position, which is to read a position of the back face 18 of the carrier 8 proximal a laterally extending portion of the back wall 22 that does not comprise the blocking portion 128). In particular if the identifier 126 cannot be read then the picture member 4 is not assembled correctly.

The alignment of the blocking portion 128 and identifier 126 and viewing window 124 ensure that the picture member 2 can be determined to be arranged in the correct position on in the picture frame 2 when viewed from the back wall 22 of the carrier portion 10. In particular if the identifier 126 cannot be read then the picture frame 2 and/or picture member 4 are not assembled correctly.

The blocking portion 128 is arranged as the fixing portion 38. The additional area of the fixing portion can be used to support a greater size of adhesive strip that can implement a more secure fixing of the picture frame 2 to a wall (not illustrated).

In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: the code can be replaced with another identifier, e.g. an image that a user can identify as being visible; the identifier and viewing window can be other shapes, including circular or square; the blocking portion can be on another portion of the back wall, e.g. on another laterally extending portion or on one of the longitudinally extending portions, and the identifier and viewing window accordingly arranged in another position; the blocking portion can be implemented separately from the fixing portion.

Method of assembly The picture frame and picture member can be assembled as follows, with reference to figures 1, 8 and 9: Step 1 assemble the picture member 4 by arranging the carrier 8 to carry a picture article 6 with a back face 16 of the picture article 6 carrying an identifier 126 that is visible through a viewing window 124 of the carrier 8.

Step 2 arrange the frame portion 12 of the picture frame 2 with a front wall 50 face down on a support surface.

Step 3 insert the picture member 4 into the frame portion 12 in the correct orientation.

Step 4 connect the carrier portion 10 to the frame portion 12, with the blocking member 128 of the carrier portion 10 not to overlap the viewing window 124 of the picture member 2.

Step 5 confirm the picture frame 2 and picture member 4 are assembled with the correct orientation by reading the identifier 126 from the fixed position proximal the back wall 22 of the carrier portion 10.

Step 6 dispatch the picture frame assembly, e.g. to a customer location, only if the identifier 126 has been read.

At step 6, the identifier 126 may encode a delivery address for the picture frame assembly, such that the shipping address can only be extracted from a correctly assembled unit. At step 5 the identifier 126 may be read as part of an automated process, e.g. the identifier 126 is a machine readable code. All of steps 1 to 6 may be automated. The steps can be performed in any suitable order, e.g. step 2 can be performed before step 1. In variant embodiments, the method can be carried out alternatively, e.g. at step 2 the frame portion is not placed face down.

As used in this specification, any formulation used of the style "at least one of A, B or C", and the formulation "at least one of A, B and C" use a disjunctive "or' and a disjunctive "and" such that those formulations comprise any and all joint and several permutations of A, B, C, that is, A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B in any order, A and C in any order, B and C in any order and A, B, C in any order. There may be more or less than three features used in such formulations.

In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim. The word 'comprising' does not exclude the presence of other elements or steps then those listed in a claim. Furthermore, the terms "a" or "an," as used herein, are defined as one or more than one. Also, the use of introductory phrases such as "at least one" and "one or more" in the claims should not be construed to imply that the introduction of another claim element by the indefinite articles "a" or "an" limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim element to inventions containing only one such element, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least one" and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an." The same holds true for the use of definite articles. Unless stated otherwise, terms such as "first" and "second" are used to arbitrarily distinguish between the elements such terms describe. Thus, these terms are not necessarily intended to indicate temporal or other prioritization of such elements. The mere fad that certain measures are recited in mutually different claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.

Unless otherwise explicitly stated as incompatible, or the physics or otherwise of the embodiments, example or claims prevent such a combination, the features of the foregoing embodiments and examples, and of the following claims may be integrated together in any suitable arrangement, especially ones where there is a beneficial effect in doing so. This is not limited to only any specified benefit, and instead may arise from an "ex post facto" benefit. This is to say that the combination of features is not limited by the described forms, particularly the form (e.g. numbering) of the example(s), embodiment(s), or dependency of the claim(s). Moreover, this also applies to the phrase "in one embodiment", "according to an embodiment" and the like, which are merely a stylistic form of wording and are not to be construed as limiting the following features to a separate embodiment to all other instances of the same or similar wording. This is to say, a reference to 'an', 'one' or 'some' embodiment(s) may be a reference to any one or more, and/or all embodiments, or combination(s) thereof, disclosed. Also, similarly, the reference to "the" embodiment may not be limited to the immediately preceding embodiment.

As used herein, any machine executable instructions, or compute readable media, may carry out a disclosed method, and may therefore be used synonymously with the term method, or each other.

The foregoing description of one or more implementations provides illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the scope of the invention to the precise form disclosed. Modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings or may be acquired from practice of various implementations of the present disclosure.

LIST OF REFERENCES

4 Picture member 6 Picture article 14 Picture face 16 Back face 126 Identifier (code) 8 Carrier 18 Back face 124 Viewing window 2 Picture frame Carrier portion 22 Back wall 24 Exterior surface 26 Interior surface 38 Fixing portion 40 Interior edge 42 Exterior edge 28, 30 Side wall 32 Exterior surface 34 Interior surface 36 Front wall 76 Protrusion 78 Base Tip 108 Engagement member 72 Cut out 82 Base 84 Mouth 77 First wall 87 End surface 79 Second wall 88 Side surface Protrusion 112 Recess Mouth 122 Base 118 Tip 12 Frame portion Front wall 52 Exterior surface 54 Interior surface 106 Recess 66 Interior edge Rim 68 Exterior edge 56, 58 Side wall Exterior surface 62 Interior surface 64 Back wall 74 Slat Base 92 Tip 94 Reduced cross-section portion 96 Large cross-section portion 98 End surface 114 Stand 116 Protrusion

Claims

CLAIMS1. A picture frame comprising a frame portion and a carrier portion, one of the frame portion or the carrier portion comprising one or more coupling protrusions, and the other of the frame portion or the carrier portion comprising one or more complimentary cut outs to receive the coupling protrusion, wherein the coupling protrusion and cut outs are arranged to engage each other to locate the frame portion on the carrier portion in an assembled configuration, in which a picture member is supported therebetween, wherein the coupling protrusion and cut outs are configured in the assembled position with a tip of the or each coupling protrusion at least partially within the or each cut out, and the tips face an interior surface of the frame portion or the carrier portion, and a tip of the or each protrusion is defined as an end thereof, and the coupling protrusion and cut outs progressively engage each other as the carrier portion and frame portion are brought together in a depth direction, which is orthogonal to the picture to support the picture member.
2 The picture frame of any preceding claim, wherein in the assembled position the coupling protrusions extend from a base to a tip in a depth direction towards an interior surface of the other of the frame portion or the wall portion.
3 The picture frame of either of claims 1 or 2, wherein a base of the or each coupling protrusion is connected to a recess that is arranged in an interior surface of the carrier portion or the frame portion, and an adjacent exterior surface opposite the recess is not indented.
4 The picture frame of any preceding claim, wherein the or each cut-out is arranged in a protrusion that extends in the depth direction from an interior surface of an in-plane wall of the other of the carrier portion or the frame portion.
The picture frame of claim 4, wherein a base of the or each protrusion is connected to a recess that is arranged in an interior surface of the carrier portion or the frame portion, and an adjacent exterior surface opposite the recess is not indented.
6 The picture frame of either of claims 4 or 5, wherein the protrusion is connected to an interior surface along the depth direction of a side wall of the other of the frame portion or the carrier portion.
7 The picture frame of any preceding claim, wherein the or each coupling protrusion is connected to an interior surface along a depth direction of a side wall of the frame portion or the carrier portion.
8 The picture frame of claim 6 or 7, wherein proximal the interior surface of the side wall, the coupling protrusion and/or the protrusion has a reduced cross-section compared to a larger cross-section distal the side wall, wherein an adjacent exterior surface of the side wall opposite the reduced cross-section is not indented.
9. The picture frame of claim 8, wherein in the assembled position, the or each cut out is arranged not to engage the reduced cross-section portion of the coupling protrusion.
10. The picture frame of claim 9, wherein in the assembled position the cut out partially engages a comparatively larger cross-section portion of the coupling protrusion.
11. The picture frame of any preceding claim, wherein a tip of the or each coupling protrusion is profiled along major edges and/or minor edges axis to aid location and insertion of the or each coupling protrusion into the or each cut out.
12. The picture frame of any preceding claim wherein the cut out is formed in a first wall and a second wall arranged perpendicular to the first wall.
13. The picture frame of any preceding claim, wherein the coupling protrusion is elongate perpendicular to the depth direction.
14. The picture frame of claim 13, wherein the coupling protrusion extends along a tip axis: and is linear along said direction of extension, or; extends along said direction with a first linear portion connected to an second linear portion, wherein the first linear portion extends perpendicular to the second linear portion.
15. The picture frame of any preceding claim, wherein the coupling protrusion and cut out interlock in the assembled position to provide a continuous structure between an interior surface of a side wall of the frame portion and an interior surface of a side wall of the carrier portion.
16. The picture frame of claim 15, wherein: the coupling protrusion includes an end surface that extends in the depth direction, wherein in the assembled position the end surface abuts a corresponding end surface of the cut out.
17. The picture frame of any preceding claim, wherein the coupling protrusion and cut out interlock in the assembled position to provide a continuous structure between and interior surface of a front wall of the front portion and an interior surface of a back wall of the carrier portion.
18 The picture frame of any preceding claim, wherein the coupling protrusions and cut outs are arranged to extend orthogonal to a proximal peripheral edge of the picture member in the assembled position.
19. The picture frame of any preceding claim when dependent on claim 4, wherein: a tip of the or each protrusion of the carrier portion comprises an engagement member arranged to interlock with the frame portion in an inverted position, or, a tip of the or each protrusion of the frame portion comprises an engagement member arranged to interlock the carrier portion in an inverted position.
The picture frame of any preceding claim, wherein in the assembled position the frame portion and a carrier portion abut opposed sides of a picture member to enclose edges of the picture member, and the carrier portion is arranged to engage with or includes a support member to support the picture frame.
21. The picture frame of any preceding claim comprising: a wall defining a hollow interior portion, an interior surface of the wall having a protrusion extending into the hollow interior portion, the protrusion defining at an exterior surface of the wall a first engagement portion, in a supported position, the first engagement portion to engage with a complimentary second engagement portion of a stand, wherein in the supported position, the stand and picture frame arranged to abut a support surface.
22. A picture frame of any preceding claim and a corresponding picture member.
23. The picture frame of claim 22, wherein the picture member comprises: a picture article; a carrier for supporting the picture article, the carrier corresponding in shape to the picture article such that in a carrying position peripheral edges of the picture article and carrier are aligned, the picture article comprises a picture face and a back face, the back face comprising an identifier, and the carrier comprises a viewing window, wherein the viewing window and the identifier are arranged with the identifier visible though the viewing window when the carrier and picture article are orientated in one of a plurality of possible orientations in the carrying position.
24. Use of the picture frame of any of claims 1 to 23 for framing a picture.
25. A method of assembling a picture frame comprising: arranging a picture member between a frame portion and a carrier portion; inserting a coupling protrusion of one of the frame portion or the carrier portion of a picture frame into a cut out of the other of one of the frame portion or the carrier portion to arrange the frame portion and carrier portion in an assembled position, in which the coupling protrusions and cut outs are configured with a tip of the or each coupling protrusion at least partially within the or each cut out, wherein the tips face an interior surface of the frame portion or the carrier portion, and a tip of the or each coupling protrusion is defined as an end thereof, and the coupling protrusion and cut outs progressively engage each other as the carrier portion and frame portion are brought together in a depth direction, which is orthogonal to the picture to support the picture member.