WO2005025388A2 - Display device and method of use - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a display device for displaying at least one item (4) and includes at least two sheets of material (9), wherein at least one sheet of material is light transmissible, and at least one engagement device (5) adapted to engage the display item (4) between the sheets of material (9), wherein the engagement device (5) secures the display item (4) between the sheets of material (9) by creating a region of increased pressure between the display item (4) and the sheets of material (9) when the sheets of material (9) are secured together. Preferably, the sheets of material (9) are both substantially transparent and therefore, when the display item (4) is positioned in a frame, the item may be seen to float or be suspended above the wall the frame is suspended from. In most cases sheets of material (9) are sealed at their periphery and therefore the display item (4) inside is preserved in combination with its display being enhanced.

Description

DISPLAY DEVICE AND METHOD OF USE

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to a display device, mounting device for use in such and method of use of both. In particular, this invention relates to a frame, a method of mounting an item or items being displayed within that frame and a method of mounting the item(s) in the frame in such a manner that enhances aesthetic appeal while protecting and preserving the item(s) being displayed. This display device is ideally suited for the preservation and display of items such as photographs, artwork on paper or paper-thin materials, valued documents, organic matter, memorabilia cards such as baseball cards or the like, but not limited to these.

BACKGROUND ART

Most items that are mounted in a framing device for display are either glued to a backing board, stretched across a frame, mounted behind a window mat board so that the edges of the item are not visible or secured along at least one edge of the item to a backing board by adhesive. Such items, while securely mounted, are either permanently secured in place, fill the entire frame, or are subject to wrinkling or potentially damaging adhesives.

Many different types of artwork, memorabilia or personal items of interest such as certificates are mounted and a large number of framing devices such as picture frames are available for displaying such items.

Further to this, framing systems have been developed that provide a method of protecting artwork from the elements such as moisture, humidity or even insects. The cost of restoring damaged artworks is large and insuring artwork against damage is also excessive. It would be an advantage to have a system that facilitated the protection of artwork at a cost that is accessible to most socio-economic groups. In addition, it would be an advantage to be able to display such protected pieces in a manner that is aesthetic and would allow for the edges of the item being presented to be visible, while securely holding the presented item or items in place.

Various framing systems exist presently which provide protection to items or images to be displayed inside. For example, US Patent No. 5,815,971 describes a poster frame with a moisture seal. The poster is mounted inside a framework and is then sealed using a combination of seal and a pre-sprung cover member. The poster to be presented fills the entire frame, although sometimes does not touch the frame edge, and while protected, provides no impression of the poster floating that might otherwise enhance the appearance of the item.

Further to this, the poster to be displayed is sometimes held in position by interaction with a seal underneath the poster and the pre-sprung frame that interacts with the poster on its top side. Such interaction is directly against the poster in most instances and applies compressive pressure to the poster. Where the poster edge is not positioned between the seal and the frame, it is held by compressive pressure due to its close vicinity to the seal/frame combination. Accordingly, the poster must extend at least to the edges of the framing system in order to be secured in place and would therefore not be suitable to items with delicate edges. The framing system also does not provide a tamperproof environment, the frame sections being easily opened to access the poster inside.

US Patent No. 6,263,604 describes a hermetically sealed picture frame that enables the image to be sealed within an inner framework using an elastomeric o-ring seal. Again, the image to be presented is not able to provide an impression of floating or otherwise enhance the appearance of the item to be presented.

A key advantage of this invention is that the system is sealed and therefore provides protection to the artwork inside. The image to be presented is secured within the frame and fills the entire framework and is therefore held from moving by interaction between the back plate, the o-ring seal and the front sheet. The thickness of the o-ring will however dictate the thickness of image being presented, as the gap between the front and rear plate will be dictated by the thickness of the o-ring. Thicker card may not be suitable and items smaller than the frame, or thin or delicate items such as silk fabric or tissue paper may be capable of sliding down or wrinkling inside the framing system.

US Patent Application No. 2002/0078613 describes a magnifying display case that, as with the other already presented prior art, provides a presentation case that is sealed and therefore provides protection to the image to be displayed, but also magnifies the image for enhanced viewing. While the image itself is enhanced in appearance, particularly in size, there is no impression of the image floating, only perception of enlargement, making this magnifying case ideal for presenting items such as small insects or organic matter where the fine detail is enhanced.

In the instance where this display may be used to allow viewing of the reverse side of collectables, the display case may include a transparent back plate. As with US Patent Application No. 2002/0078613, this display case may be available in a range of sizes, but it would not be possible to cover every required size. While items that closely match the frame size are kept in position by the frames internal edges, there is no means of positively positioning, without damage, items that are smaller than the frames internal size.

US Patent No. 4,183,160 describes an evacuated mount for display of objects. The intention of this invention is to provide for the protective display of large drawings, paintings, thin sheets, rare documents, old manuscripts, historic flags, tapestries and the like. The aim of the invention is to protect the image inside by sandwiching it between two acrylic sheets, at least one of which is transparent. These acrylic sheets have a shaped edge configured to receive sealing resin or the like. An aluminium channel frame is then positioned around the edge of the sandwich and resin introduced that fills the shaped edge of the sandwich and provides a hermetic seal, which protects the image inside.

While this evacuated mount system is useful, it does not enhance the appearance of the item to be presented, rather it protects it but does not provide an impression of floating to the item. The use of acrylic sheets in this instance is preferred as the forming of the shaped edge on glass would be difficult and costly. Furthermore, the removal of the image from between glass sheets without damage would be very difficult once the channel frame has been fitted and sealed.

Valuable and irreplaceable items that are to be displayed and protected should be easily removed from a display device without damage, and to further enhance and protect items to be displayed, glass with UV blocking and reflection-reducing properties are recommended. Glass with these surface treatments is commonly used, as the cost of acrylic sheeting with these properties is very costly. Such a system as described in US Patent No. 4,183,160 would be prohibitively expensive for small individually sized items or items of personal value, as each individually sized acrylic or glass sheet would have to be shaped with the sealant recess and assembled professionally. This procedure and equipment would not be within the means of the average custom picture framer.

US Patent No. 6,688,030 describes an encasement system that also provides a protection system for a display. As with the prior art described previously, the aim is to protect the artwork inside, but the framing system does not provide an impression of floating or otherwise generally enhance the appearance of the item (other than with the magnifying display case example). The images either entirely fill the display, or have the ability to be viewed from both front and rear. These images do not appear in any way to float within the framing system. The prior art does not outline a method of securing an image to be displayed within a framing system without touching the edges of the framing system or without being permanently or in some way physically attached to the framing system.

US Patent Application No. 2003/0196362 describes a system for displaying cards and memorabilia. This system does allow for both sides of the memorabilia card to be viewed by encasing the card between a first shell member and a second shell member. These shells have an inner and outer surface, where the inner surface of the second shell member includes a card holding depression. Again the card is not easily removed without any chance of damage from this unit if it is to be airtight and therefore sealed by means of an adhesive.

Further to this, the edges of the depression closely match the edges of the card to be displayed and therefore it is intended for an item of a particular size. While the card is viewable from both sides, there is no impression of floating provided and no frame to enhance the presentation.

The system is also not applicable to items of variable size or thickness and is therefore not suitable for the custom framing of artwork. It would be unlikely that a range of sizes to suit every need could be made.

It would be an advantage to have a method of presenting an object within a framing system that allows for the suspension of that image to be displayed within the framing system by a means that does not in any way physically damage or harm the image to be displayed.

It would also be an advantage to have a method of presenting an item or object that enhances the impression of floating of the image and therefore provides a further display effect.

All references, including any patents or patent applications cited in this specification are hereby incorporated by reference. No admission is made that any reference constitutes prior art. The discussion of the references states what their authors assert, and the applicants reserve the right to challenge the accuracy and pertinency of the cited documents. It will be clearly understood that, although a number of prior art publications are referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that any of these documents form part of the common general knowledge in the art, in New Zealand or in any other country. It is acknowledged that the term 'comprise' may, under varying jurisdictions, be attributed with either an exclusive or an inclusive meaning. For the purpose of this specification, and unless otherwise noted, the term 'comprise' shall have an inclusive meaning - i.e. that it will be taken to mean an inclusion of not only the listed components it directly references, but also other non-specified components or elements. This rationale will also be used when the term 'comprised' or 'comprising' is used in relation to one or more steps in a method or process.

It is an object of the present invention to address the foregoing problems or at least to provide the public with a useful choice.

Further aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the ensuing description which is given by way of example only.

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided a display device for displaying at least one item including;

at least two sheets of material, wherein at least one sheet of material is light transmissible, and

at least one engagement device adapted to engage the display item between the sheets of material,

characterised in that

the engagement device secures the display item between the sheets of material by creating a region of increased pressure between the display item and the sheets of material when the sheets of material are secured together.

In preferred embodiments of the present invention it should be appreciated that the engagement device may reversibly secure the display item between the sheets of material.

It should be appreciated that the display device herein described provides the ability to display an item in a preset position within a material sandwich where the item or items to be displayed are not damaged or permanently adhered in position.

Until now, items to be displayed are either permanently mounted in position, or are attempted to be secured in position by being sandwiched tightly between glass layers alone, with no localised pressure regions or the like.

Throughout this specification the term 'item or items to be displayed' should be understood to include items such as an artwork, including water or oil paintings, photographs, certificates, stamps, memorabilia cards, silk art, tapestries, charcoal or pencil drawings or organic matter but not limited to such.

In preferred embodiments the item may be a photograph, and for ease of reference throughout the specification the term "item" will herein be referred to as a photograph. However, this should not be seen as a limitation on the present invention in any way and is given by way of example only, for it is anticipated that the present invention could be used to display a wide range of items as discussed above, and including other printed material such as stamps, or fabrics such as tapestries for flags, calligraphy, silk painting, certificates, money, transparencies or even skins, feathers and minerals. Furthermore, more than one item may be displayed, particularly where a montage of photographs or dried organic matter may be being displayed, although again, this is listed by way of example only and should not be seen to be limiting in any way.

Reference throughout the specification will now be to 'a' display item, however it should be appreciated that this term should not be seen to be limiting, as more than one display item may be displayed in the display device at any one time.

The term 'sheet of material' in accordance with the present invention should be understood to include standard mounting materials used in picture displays including backing board, foamboard, opaque, translucent or transparent glass or other types of substantially rigid material well known to those skilled in the art in relation to picture framing support materials. It should further be appreciated that the examples listed here should not be seen to be limiting, as the backing board could also include wood, aluminium, acrylic or plastic or a combination of these. Further to this, it should be appreciated that in the instance where the sheets of material are not sealed, the backing board used may be of sufficient rigidity to ensure that deformation, the degree of increased pressure applied to the engagement device is not reduced or lost.

In preferred embodiments the sheet of material, where the material is not required to be light transmissible, the sheet of material may be acrylic or aluminium sheet in a sealed environment, or, in conventional framing it may be a firm backing board, foam core or rag mat board.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a display device as detailed above wherein the sheets of material are light transmissible. The term 'light transmissible material' in accordance with the present invention should be understood to include reference to substantially rigid materials such as glass, plastic, acrylic or Perspex™ that allow the transmission of sufficient light through so that the item being displayed behind such can be viewed. It should be anticipated that the amount of light able to be transmitted through each sheet may vary depending on the item to be displayed and desired presentation effect.

It should further be appreciated that various types of light transmissible material well known in the display industry often include features such as low reflectance, ultraviolet blocking, light diffusion or neutral colour and reference to the light transmissible material should be taken to include these features as well, although these are listed by way of example only and should not be seen to be limiting.

In preferred embodiments, the light transmissible material may be glass, particularly where the image quality is paramount and the cost of the display device is intended to be kept to a minimum.

In other embodiments, the light transmissible material may be Perspex™ or Mylar™ where the protection of the item being displayed in the display device against vandalism is paramount. It should be appreciated that those skilled in the art would recognise the trademark names of the materials detailed in this specification and be aware of the type of materials they describe.

For ease of reference throughout the specification, the light transmissible material will now hereinafter be referred to as glass, although, as detailed above, this should not be seen to be limiting as other light transmissible materials are known and used in the industry.

In further preferred embodiments the glass sheets may also be coated with a surface layer composition, as is well known to those skilled in the art, to reduce the amount of light passing through, to reduce the amount of UV rays passing through, for scratch resistance, durability, or so forth, but again, not limited to such.

In other embodiments the glass sheets may include a non-reflective surface condition, as is well known to those skilled in the art, to enhance the item to be displayed. Non-reflective glass would be an advantage in that it would enhance the apparent suspension of floating of the image being displayed if it were mounted in a deep framing device as will be described later in this specification. Further to this, while photographs with shiny paper are applicable for inclusion in the display device, matt surface photographs would be preferred to reduce any reflection and thereby enhance the visual effect of the floating image, when mounted in a deep frame device.

The term 'engagement device' in accordance with the present invention should be understood to include clear low tackiness adhesive tape, spray-on low tackiness adhesive or a non-adhesive film of varying shape that remains in the position it is placed in, such as polypropylene or cling film, although it should be appreciated that these are listed by way of example and should not be seen to be limiting.

The key aim of the engagement device is to increase the thickness of material located between the sheets of glass to form a region of increased pressure between the glass sheets and the photograph. This increased thickness provided by the at least one engagement device is located behind the photograph being displayed and provides a region of increased pressure, encouraging it to remain in its pre-selected position.

Another aim of the engagement device is to provide a form of adhesion or non- slippage in the pre-selected position so that the item to be displayed is further encouraged to hold its position within the glass sandwich. Should the item ever need to be removed from the glass sandwich, it can easily be accessed by cutting the edges of the glass sandwich off, opening such up and lifting the item off the glass. The engagement device is not intended to permanently adhere to the item or damage it in any way. This cutting of the glass is facilitated by the fact that the item to be displayed does not usually extend to the edge of the glass sandwich, and does not touch the seal. In other words, the size of the display item is smaller than the size of the sheets of material. As such, there is a gap between the item to be displayed and the inside edge of the frame, at which the glass may be cut to break off the edges and access the item inside.

Further to this, the engagement device will discourage the item to be displayed from shifting when the display device is hung, either within a frame or alone, displayed in an upright position or transported.

Furthermore it should be appreciated that other materials such as backing sheets may be included in the light transmissible glass sandwich along with the item to be displayed and the engagement device(s). In other instances a white or coloured window paper or mat board may be included in front of the item to be displayed. The inclusion of the backing sheet or sheets may result in the rear of the item being displayed being obscured, however the backing sheet or window mount may also act as a buffer against acidity, alkalinity or moisture in the item to be displayed, although these are listed by way of example and should not be seen to be limiting in any way as these sheets may also be included for aesthetic purposes only.

In the instance where both sheets of light transmissible material are glass, it should be appreciated that both sides of the item being displayed may be viewed. This is often desirable when a limited edition print is being displayed as the details of the print, or signature of the artist may be included on the rear of the image. The details are viewable, but do not distract from the display item itself. Alternatively details of the framer or of the display item itself may also be included although these are listed by way of example only and should not be seen to be limiting in any way.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a display device as detailed above wherein the sheets of material are joined substantially at their periphery to form a seal.

It should be appreciated that the seal may be airtight, moisture tight, non- permeable or acid free, or all of these, but not limited to these.

It should further be appreciated that the intention of the seal may be to preserve the photograph or photographs being displayed and prolong their quality or life, although this should not be seen as limiting as the seal may also be included to reduce the rate of decay of a display item or the like where quality or life expectancy has already been reduced. Museums are often looking to preserve artwork while maintaining or improving the display quality of the artwork, and as such, such a system described herein would provide an advantage over the prior art. It should be appreciated that the seal may be formed by adhesive tape, or a bead of liquid glue or resin or by a capping device secured around each edge of the sandwich of glass and photograph or photographs on display, although these are listed by way of example only and one skilled in the art would recognise that there are many ways presently available to form a seal around the periphery of sandwiched materials.

In some embodiments, the glass sheets may be sealed using a bead of glue run around the edge of the glass, a double-sided adhesive tape or other types of adhesive well known to those skilled in the art.

In preferred embodiments, the seal is substantially clear.

In preferred embodiments, the glass sheets may be sealed using an optically clear double sided adhesive tape such as 3M 415, although this is listed by way of example only and should not be seen to be limiting in any way.

It should be appreciated that while a clear seal is preferred, as the seal may be covered by a framing system, the seal could also be facilitated by a tape or resin that is viewable to the eye, or may be viewable on close inspection. As such, while a substantially clear seal is preferable, it is not essential.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a display device as detailed above wherein the seal is adapted to receiving an edging bead.

It should be appreciated that the seal may be configured to receive an edging bead or trim, should the glass sandwich not be inserted into a frame, but rather displayed free standing. Furthermore, the bead or trim may protect the user from the edge of the glass sandwich if it is sharp, although it should be appreciated that glass can be lightly sanded or abraded to remove any sharp edges.

It should further be appreciated that such a seal may be of a suitable thickness that ensures that the gap between the at least two layers of glass is kept to a minimum.

In some embodiments the proportion of the display item thickness to seal thickness may be in the range of 35 to 70 percent.

In preferred embodiments the proportion of the display item thickness to seal thickness may be in the range of 55 to 65 percent.

In the instance where the item to be presented is a card, the preferred proportion detailed above means that the paper thickness of the card should measure slightly more than the remaining open space between the paper and the glass sheets. This minimal gap prevents the paper from wrinkling and also improves the efficiency of the engagement device.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a display device as detailed above wherein the display item is smaller than the size of the sheets of material.

In preferred embodiments, as the item to be displayed does not touch the seal as the size of the display item is smaller than the sheets of material, the edges of the item may be viewed. This is preferable when the edges of the item being displayed hold interest to a viewer, such as with papyrus or where a visual effect is desirable. When the layers of material are glass, the item being displayed may appear to float within any framing system as the edges of the items may be spaced some distance away from the frame edge.

In preferred embodiments the photograph to be displayed does not extend to touch the seal.

In further preferred embodiments, the distance between the photograph to be displayed and the seal and frame is large enough to be clearly viewed by the observer. Accordingly, the photograph to be displayed may appear to float inside the glass sandwich, or within a framing system that may be used to secure the display device.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided at least one engagement device adapted to engage a display item between at least two sheets of material, wherein at least one sheet of material is light transmissible

characterised in that

the engagement device secures the display item between the sheets of material by creating a region of increased pressure between the display item and the sheets of material when the sheets of material are secured together.

In preferred embodiments of the present invention it should be appreciated that the engagement device may reversibly secure the display item between the sheets of material, as already discussed.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided at least one engagement device as detailed above wherein the at least one engagement device is substantially clear. In some embodiments, the engagement device may include a clear or substantially clear bead or adhesive tape, where the bead or tape adheres to the light transmissible material on one side, and has a low adhesion layer on the other side. This low adhesion layer may removably engage the item to be displayed, but not fully adhere or bond to the item, thereby not damaging or permanently adhering the item to the glass. By way of example, a tape such as acrylic foam or Mylar™ (being 100% acid free) as used by Museum conservators may be appropriate for use as the main body of the engagement device, although this is listed by way of example only and should not be seen to be limiting in any way.

In other embodiments the engagement device may include a starch based liquid, that on setting, lightly adheres to the sheet of material, but has a low to nil tackiness. It should be appreciated that such a liquid may be substantially clear, and if applied correctly, may have such a reduced number of bubbles so as to be virtually clear to an observer, although this is listed by way of example only.

Alternatively, the engagement device may include a substantially clear low tackiness adhesive bead or tape that includes adhesion on only one side, being the side that abuts the glass. The increased thickness of the bead or tape provides the region of increased pressure when two sheets of glass are sandwiched with the photograph to be displayed between them. This higher- pressure region then encourages the photograph to be displayed to remain in its pre-set position without any damage to the photograph itself.

In other embodiments, the engagement device may be a clear or substantially clear spray-on adhesive. This adhesive may be applied to one side of the glass and then allowed to substantially dry. The substantially dry adhesive may then act in a two-fold manner. The adhesive may provide a thicker region between the photograph or photographs to be displayed, thereby increasing the pressure behind the photograph and encouraging it to hold its preset position when the glass sheets are sandwiched together.

Alternatively, it may provide both an increased thickness and a low adhesion layer that allows the photograph being displayed to be removably engaged with the adhesion layer, but not permanently mounted to the glass or in any way damaged. In that way, the item to be displayed may be removed from between the glass sheets at a later time without damage.

It should be appreciated that damage to an item to be displayed may include the permanent adhesion of a portion of the photograph in some instances to the glass. When the photograph is to be removed, a section of it may be torn off and remain adhered to the glass. Where other items are being displayed, any permanent adhesive may cause a change or leaching of colour from the item, may degrade the quality of the item or may cause wrinkling of the item by not allowing for subtle expansion and shrinkage due to temperature fluctuations. While the increased pressure region described in the present invention is intended to encourage items being displayed to remain in their pre-selected positions, subtle movement may be possible. Other types of damage due to permanent adhesives, although not listed here, are well known to those skilled in the art and have formed an obvious problem to date, leading to the solution described by the present invention.

As another alternative, the engagement device may have a high coefficient of friction or 'non-slip' effect and, combined with increased thickness, thereby encourages the displayed item to remain in position and not slide in response to gravity. In some embodiments, the engagement device may include at least one portion of substantially clear film that may be removably adhered to the glass by static electricity, by increased surface area interaction or other means well known to those skilled in the art.

In further embodiments that film may be man-made and include material such as plastic or resin, or in other embodiments may be a natural material, although this is listed by way of example only and should not be seen to be limiting in any way.

With regard to man-made films, it is well known that material such as a polyethylene, polyurethane or polypropylene films or beads, e.g. cling film removably adheres to glass. This material is able to be cut to any desired shape and placed on the light transmissible material, for example, glass, and provides a region of increased thickness between two sheets of glass. This increased thickness may be located behind the item to be displayed, thereby subtly increasing the pressure behind the item, encouraging it to stay in its preset position, but without adhering to the item itself or damaging it in any way.

In other embodiments it should be appreciated that more than one layer of substantially clear film may be used in a sandwiched or in an overlapped configuration. This embodiment would be of particular use where the item to be displayed is of a variable thickness, as would be the case for different types of organic matter such as dried flowers, although this is listed by way of example and should not be seen as limiting in any way.

On items that are to be viewed from both sides, it should of course be appreciated that the engagement device may be viewable to an observer by the naked eye, but may not generally detract from the item to be viewed. The engagement device may be carefully positioned to, for example, form a border around memorabilia cards being displayed.

In preferred embodiments however the engagement device may be positioned along one edge of the item to be displayed. Usually this edge would be the upper edge of the item when held in an upright position, to avoid wrinkling or sagging of the item being presented, however this is not essential and should not be seen as a limitation as the engagement device could be positioned along other edges, or in dot configurations as desired.

Further to this, it should be appreciated that the engagement device may be made of a material or include materials that do not damage the item being presented. In most cases, the engagement device would be acid free although this would be obvious to one skilled in the art, as acidity of adhesives and backing boards and the like are well known in the art and are vigorously avoided.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided at least one engagement device as detailed above wherein the thickness of the engagement device is substantially equal to the gap between the at least two sheets of material and the item to be displayed.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided at least one engagement device as detailed above wherein the thickness of the engagement device prior to compression is slightly more than the gap between the at least two sheets of material and the item to be displayed.

It should be appreciated that the engagement device may also be compressible under pressure.

It should further be appreciated that by having the thickness of the engagement device preferably lightly more than the gap between the at least two sheets of material and the item to be displayed, the region of increased pressure is readily and easily formed.

It should also be appreciated that by positioning the at least two sheets of light transmissible material closely together and sealing them, the amount of air located between them is minimised. Where the item to be displayed consists mainly of paper, it is desirable that the paper be stabilised at a relative humidity of between approximately 40 and 55 percent at room temperature in order to prolong the life of the paper. This is well known to those skilled in the art.

If there is too much air around the paper, sudden changes in temperature may cause condensation to occur on the inside of the light transmissible material, thereby damaging the paper due to localised increased moisture content, i.e. droplets. It is desirable to keep the amount of air surrounding the paper to a minimum so that the tiny amount of moisture in this air, containing usually around 50 percent relative humidity, can be easily absorbed by the paper during a sudden drop in temperature without its moisture content going above the recommended maximum.

Such a moisture content can be established in most instances by drying the item to be displayed prior to mounting them in the glass sandwich.

In some instances a dehumidifier in a small room run over several hours may be sufficient to establish a suitable moisture content level, although it should be appreciated that other methods of setting moisture content are known to those skilled in the art, and the dehumidifier is listed by way of example only. It is an advantage however that dehumidifiers are affordable items and therefore such a mounting system and display device become achievable to the small corner framer.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of displaying at least one item between at least two sheets of material wherein at least one sheet of material is light transmissible and wherein the display item to be displayed is secured in position by at least one engagement device

characterised by the steps of a) positioning at least one engagement device on a sheet of the material b) positioning the display item on the at least one engagement device c) positioning at least one sheet of light transmissible material on top of the first sheet of material d) securing the sheets of material together.

As discussed previously, in preferred embodiments, the engagement device may reversibly secure the display item between the sheets of material.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of displaying an item substantially as described above

characterised by the further step of

sealing the sheets of material together at their periphery. According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of displaying an item substantially as described above

characterised by the further step of

securing the sealed sheets of material in a frame.

It should further be appreciated that this device for displaying at least one item in a pre-selected position between at least two sheets of light transmissible material provides an affordable cost effective method of protecting items to be displayed while preventing them from wrinkling and allowing for their easy undamaged removal if required. This is an advantage over the prior art where items being displayed are either permanently glued down to hold their position and stop wrinkling, they are partially glued and therefore able to wrinkle or held together by sandwich pressure of the glass alone, which means the items can shift over time.

In the current state of the art, images are mounted in framing systems so that the edges of the item to be displayed abut the edge of the glass. If those edges are glued or sealed, there is potential to damage the item, or have solvent from the sealing material damage the item. Further to this, the edges of the item are no longer observable, and this is often preferable, particularly in the presentation of papyrus images or tapestries, but not limited to these. It is well known that various conditions such as acidic materials, dampness, fluctuation of temperature and humidity together with ultraviolet rays, the hanging of artwork against damp walls, pollutants in the air, mould and insects as well as the use of adhesives to keep the artwork in place are the main causes of most irreversible damage to artwork on paper. It is an advantage of the present invention that these main causes of damage to artwork may be either minimised or eliminated by using the system described herein while the presentation of the image is not compromised, but is in fact enhanced or capable of being enhanced by the addition of an impression of floating, or of the display item being poised in mid air, back lighting, or the showing of the artworks edges.

Once the sealed glass sandwich is formed, the sheets may then be mounted into the frame as detailed previously, mounted in a conventional timber or aluminium frame or be prepared for presentation without the frame.

In some embodiments, the glass sandwich formed may be hung without a frame using various mounting methods known in the art, such as placing the sandwich in a stand, or hanging it from top edge mounted hanging means, but not limited to these.

In preferred embodiments the glass sandwich may be recessed into the frame, where the frame securely holds the glass sandwich and also conceals the edges of the glass sheets, which include a thin line of sealant, from view.

In further preferred embodiments of the present invention the photograph, or other items to be displayed may be smaller in size than the glass sheets. This configuration, in combination with the use of two glass sheets, distances the photograph from the edges of the frame. This is an advantage over the prior art in that it provides an aesthetically pleasing effect. Such a combination of a 'floating' image with secure mounting has not previously been available.

In some embodiments the glass sheets are mounted into a deep rectangular frame, distancing the photograph from the wall or surface on which it is displayed.

In preferred embodiments the configuration of the framing device thus creates an impression that the display item is floating or is poised in mid air, where the photograph appears to hang in space and be removed from both the frame that surrounds it and the wall on which it is hung.

With changing light, the shadows created around the image further enhance the floating effect and increase the aesthetic appeal of the image.

The distancing of the photograph from the edges of the frame in combination with a deep frame, allows light to come through the glass sandwich from behind the image, further enhancing the appearance of translucent materials.

This impression may be further enhanced by the use of reflection-reducing glass that has a surface finish that causes anything distanced from the glass sheet to appear diffused; this effect further darkens and reduces the impact of the surface on which the device is hung.

Further to this, both sides of the image may be displayed with the engagement device used to encourage the image to stay in its pre-set position without detracting from the item being displayed.

In some embodiments a blank border may be visible around the edge of the photograph, further isolating the photograph as well as providing room to display a limited edition print number and artist signature, although these could also be displayed on the back of the item and viewed from behind.

In some instances, a backing board may be mounted within the display unit, outside and behind the glass sandwich or within the rear face of the frame. This is a distinct advantage as the matt board or backing sheet would not be required to be acid free, making any coloured material or matter desired to be displayed behind the display items applicable for use. Furthermore, such a backing board or the like could be easily changed as desired without actually touching the display item, meaning that coordinating artwork to new rooms may be as simple as changing the backing board.

It is an advantage of the method described above that an item to be displayed is able to be displayed in such a manner that is aesthetically pleasing to the eye and be secured in place by a non-destructive means. The items may be removed at will, with only the seal around the edge of the light transmissible material needing to be broken or the glass/acrylic edges containing the seal cut off to access the item.

It should be appreciated that in some embodiments, a suitable, controlled environment within which the final assembly and sealing of the item is to be undertaken could be established to protect and prolong the life of the item to be sealed, these means are well known to those skilled in the art. In that way, the atmosphere within the light transmissible material sandwich could be preset and then sealed in, once the item has been pre-positioned. The sealed sandwich could then be hung or framed without concern of the items falling, or wrinkling due to the inclusion of the at least one engagement device behind the item being displayed.

Until recently, it has been difficult to display valuable coloured photographs as they have had limited colour permanence. Fading and degradation of colour photographs has previously limited their display potential. There are now many affordable inkjet printers available which use pigmented "archival" inks and matched papers to provide a combination of high image quality, and extremely good image permanence that has previously not been available in the history of colour photography.

The use of such printers with certain papers such as archival matte paper ensures that there is no discernable fading or image degradation for at least 100 years.

This quality and image permanence will now allow such artworks to become collectable items which will increase in value over time. Previously, the image fading and degradation which occurred in photographs reduced the value of these artworks over time.

Accordingly, it is an advantage that the items to be presented may be preserved between the glass by sealing, while being held in position by a non damaging or destructive means. Sealing of the glass sheets prevents the items being displayed, such as photographs from being exposed to fluctuations in the atmosphere in which the frame is positioned, such as humidity.

Previous methods of conserving items such as photographs were limited in their protection and expensive, requiring the use of acid-free mat and mounting boards, adhesives and materials to preserve the quality of the print in contact with them. Items that required possible removal without damage were not able to be kept totally flat without wrinkles. These methods also had no means of protecting photographs from the damage caused by excessive moisture and fluctuating humidity.

The configuration of the framing device and method of mounting of the present invention allows items such as photographs, artwork, organic matter or memorabilia cards to be conserved quickly and easily, by the appropriate choice of components and adhesives and to be held in their desired position without damage.

While UV-blocking glass, window, backing or buffer sheets and the like may be used where desired, the items to be displayed in the display device described herein using the mounting method described herein also may be better preserved at a cost that is considerably cheaper than that currently available, and also much more easily. This is a distinct advantage over the prior art, where, while considerable effort has gone in to producing systems that protect the images being presented, the systems are either highly technical and therefore expensive, they are not available or easily made to cover the full range of sizes and thicknesses of the items to be displayed, or they do not allow for easy removal or undamaged presentation of the item.

The present invention also provides an advantage over the prior art in that the minimal air gap formed in the display device results in the system being unlikely to fog the glass as a result of temperature fluctuations. This is an advantage over the prior art, where air gaps are usually large, particularly where the spaces are formed by o-rings or a recess in the display device.

According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided a framing device for displaying at least one item, including: a) a frame having a back outer edge and a front outer edge; b) at least two sheets of light transmissible material for holding the at least one item to be displayed; characterised in that the outer edges of the sheets are positioned within the frame between the back outer edge and the front outer edge of the frame.

In some embodiments the framing device may be constructed of wood, aluminium, plastic or other material capable of being shaped to the desired form, however it should be appreciated that these are listed by way of example only and should not be seen to be limiting in any way.

It should be appreciated that the framing device described herein allows the sheets of material to be positioned in a region between the back outer and front outer edge. Therefore, should the size of the back outer or front outer edge be varied, the location of the sheets of material will therefore vary accordingly. As such, in the instance where the at least one item to be displayed does not extend to the edge of the sheets of light transmissible material, those items may be positioned at a distance away from the back outer edge of the frame, thereby creating an aesthetic effect to the item being displayed.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a framing device as detailed above wherein the depth of frame is substantially greater than its width.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a framing device as detailed above wherein the frame includes a portion adapted to be reversible removed wherein said portion extends along one edge of the frame

characterised in that

the portion provides access to at least one region of the frame that secures the outer edge of the sheets in place between the back outer edge and the front outer edge of the frame.

It should be appreciated that the framing device described above allows an item being displayed between at least two sheets of light transmissible material to be positioned at a selected distance away from the surface that the framing device is mounted on. This means that a frame of significant depth can be created, and therefore the image appears to float that distance away from the surface.

Further to this, in the instance where the framing device is being used to display the display device described in this specification, the item being displayed will usually not extend to the edge of the framing device. As such, light is able to pass through the light transmissible material, creating shadows and further aesthetic visual effects. As the light in a room changes, so may the light cast behind the framing device and therefore the impression of the item being displayed may change.

Further to this, the portion of the frame adapted to be reversibly removed allows the display device secured inside to be removed and replaced. The portion of the frame would be substantially equal, or just greater in width than the display device and therefore the display device may be slid out of the frame and replaced as desired. The portion may be secured in place by small screws, or by frictional engagement or by other means known to one skilled in the art. This is an advantage in that easy removal and exchange of the display device is facilitated.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Further aspects of the present invention will become apparent from the following description which is given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 shows an exploded perspective view of some features of the display device,

Figure 2 shows a perspective rear view of a preferred embodiment of the display device,

Figure 3 shows a sectional perspective view of yet another embodiment of the present invention,

Figure 4 shows an isometric view of one embodiment of the present invention,

Figure 5 shows a rear view of the display device and framing system combined, and

Figure 6 shows a plan view of the display device and framing system combined.

BEST MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

It should be appreciated that the figures herein unto referenced are intended to be indicative of the invention, but are not to perfect scale or dimension. This is particularly the case for figures 1 to 5.

Figure 1 shows an exploded perspective view of two sheets of material, being a front sheet (1 ) and a rear sheet (2) and seal material (3), being some of the features of the display device.

Figure 2 shows a perspective view of an assembled display device including a front sheet (1 ), a rear sheet (2), a seal material (3), a display item (4) and engagement device in the form of a tape strip (5) and bead (6).

Figure 3 shows another sectional perspective view of part of an assembled display device including a front sheet (1), a rear sheet (2), a seal (3), a display item (4), recess in the seal (7) to accept an edging bead, and an edging bead (8).

Figure 4 shows another embodiment of the present invention including a framing device for displaying a display item (4) such as a photograph.

The photograph (4) in figure 4 is held between two sheets of light transmissible glass (indicated by cross hatching) (9) which are positioned within the frame (10) between the back outer edge (11) and front outer edge (12) of the frame (10).

Figure 5 shows another embodiment of the present invention where a display item (4) is displayed in between sheets of material that are not sealed. The display device includes in this embodiment a rigid backing board (13), window mat (14) that extend beyond the edges of the display item (4), a portion of seal (3) to connect the rigid back sheet of material (13) to the front sheet of material (1) and an engagement strip (5) that is located behind the display item (4) but still under the edge of the window mat (14).

Figure 6 shows a rear view of the display device and framing system combined and includes display device with transparent sheets of material indicated by cross-hatching (9) and display item (4) partially slid out of the framing system (10). The framing system (10) includes a securing means (15) for fixing the framing system (10) to a hanger on a wall (not shown), a removable portion (16) that is adapted to receive screws (17) to hold the removable portion (16) in place when re-slotted back into the framing system (10).

Figure 7 shows a plan view of the framing system (10) adapted to receive screws (14) to secure the removable portion (16) in place. The location of the removable portion (16) within the framing system (10) is toward the front of the framing system (18), where the rear of the framing system (19) will abut the wall that the display device and framing system are suspended from.

As illustrated in Figure 1 , the seal is preferably located toward the edge of the sheets of material. As such, the seal may be hidden from view when positioned in a framing system. Alternatively, if the seal is transparent, the display device may be displayed without a framing system.

As is illustrated in Figure 2, the display item may be engaged in position by the location of an engagement device in the form of a strip or at least one bead. Such engagement devices, as detailed in the body of the specification, increase the pressure applied to the display item when the sheets of material are secured together.

Further to this, the display device may include an edging bead, particularly when the display device is being sold without a framing system, or when it is to be displayed without a framing system. Such an edging bead could be flat, rounded, clear or coloured as desired.

Figure 5 shows another embodiment of the present invention where a display item (4) is displayed in between sheets of material that are not sealed. The display device includes in this embodiment a rigid backing board (13), window mat (14) that extends beyond the edges of the display item (4), a portion of seal (3) to connect the rigid back sheet of material (13) to the window mat (14) and an engagement strip (5) that is located in front of the window mount, but behind the display item (4) but still under the edge of the window mat (14). It should be appreciated that the front glass sheet is not shown in this figure, but should be understood to be located in front of the window mat (14).

Figure 6 shows the preferred embodiment of the present invention where the display device is included in a framing system, but is able to be removed and replaced as desired through a slot on one side of the frame (preferably the top).

This slot in the frame is filled by a removable portion that is adapted to be secured in place by securing means such as screws.

These screws are shown in Figure 7, as is the location of the display device to provide the effect of depth to the framed display device and to create the floating effect of the displayed image. While the attached figures illustrate the overall look of the display device and framing system, the following has been included to illustrate the method used to prepare and mount a display item. Two examples have been provided, the first relating to preparing an archival print in a deep framing system and the second for mounting a watercolour painting in a standard frame.

Method of mounting an Archival print in a deep frame

A Limited Edition Print in this instance has been printed by an Epson Stylus Photo 2000P printer using Archival Pigmented Ink on Archival Matte Paper.

1. A Limited Edition Print on matte paper measuring 0.26mm thick is stabilised at 20°C to a relative humidity level of between 40 and 55% over 24 hours. As these figures are also those recommended for the home and interior working environment, they are easily attainable by most domestic air conditioners and humidifiers/dehumidifiers. This stabilisation period allows the paper to reach a moisture content of approximately 7 to 10%, as recommended by conservators for the long-term preservation of paper. Depending on the nature of the item to be sealed, these figures would be adjusted to suit.

2. Mark the outside, rear face of glass with a removable marker to establish the position of the print and the engagement device.

3. Cut a length of the engagement device slightly shorter than the top edge length of the print as it would be displayed. The engagement device in this instance would be clear, closed cell acrylic foam tape. Preferably the tape would be 0.25mm thick with a width of 6mm. One face of the tape would have an adhesive layer that would bond it to the inside, rear glass sheet. The other face would be coated with a low-bond, reversible adhesive. This adhesive would form a light bond with the rear face of the print, while allowing its damage-free removal at a later stage. In this instance, it is important that the engagement device be acid free and that there is no damaging out-gassing or adhesive migration into the print. In this case, it is the mechanical pressure of the engagement device as sandwiched between the paper and glass sheets, as well as the low adhesive reversible bond to both paper and glass that will hold the paper print in its designated position.

4. Position the engagement device in its appropriate position on the inside face of the rear glass sheet. In this case, it would be along and very near to the top edge of the print when in the print is in its designated position.

5. Place the print in its designated position upon the engagement device.

6. Place the double sided 3M 415 clear acrylic tape or similar seal along the perimeter of the inside face of the rear glass sheet. This positioning of the tape will create four seal joints at each corner of the perimeter of the rear glass sheet. This tapes thickness must be suited to the thickness of both the paper and the engagement device. In this instance, it would be 0.5mm thick. Although it is not in direct contact with the paper print, care must be taken to ensure that the seal will not cause the paper any harm due to acidity or out gassing or the like.

7. Apply a smear of adhesive that is compatible with the seal to the four seal joints. In this instance, matching acrylic adhesive is ideal. Upon assembly, this adhesive will fill any possible gaps between the seal joints and thereby ensure the necessary gas and moisture tight seal. 8. Place the front reflection reducing glass sheet in position on the rear glass sheet.

9. Press the two glass sheets together between two boards to establish a good bond between the glass sheets and the adhesive tape seal.

10. Place the deep wooden frame sections in position around the sealed glass sheets. Join these frame sections together by conventional methods used in the picture framing industry.

Method of mounting a watercolour painting with a backing board behind the sealed unit, framed within a conventional wooden frame.

1. A watercolour painting on thick handmade paper measuring 0.6mm thick is stabilised at 20°C to a relative humidity level of between 40 and 55% over 24 hours. As these figures are also those recommended for the home and interior working environment, they are easily attainable by most domestic air conditioners and humidifiers/dehumidifiers. This allows the paper to reach a moisture content of approximately 7 to 10% as recommended by conservators for the long-term preservation of paper. Depending on the nature of the item to be sealed, these figures would be adjusted to suit.

2. Mark the outside, rear face of glass with a removable marker to establish the position of the paper and the engagement device

3. Cut a length of the engagement device slightly shorter than the top edge length of the paper as it would be displayed. The engagement device in this instance would be clear, closed cell acrylic foam tape. It would be 0.5mm thick with a width of 6mm. Its one face would have an adhesive layer that would bond it to the inside, rear glass sheet. In this instance, it is important that the engagement device is acid free and that there is no damaging out- gassing into the paper. In this case, it is the mechanical pressure of the compressible engagement device as sandwiched between the paper and glass sheets that will hold the paper in its designated position.

4. Position the engagement device in its appropriate position on the inside face of the rear glass sheet. In this case, it would be along and very near to the top edge of the paper when in its designated position.

5. Place the paper in its designated position upon the engagement device.

6. Place the double sided 3M 415 clear acrylic tape or similar seal along the perimeter of the inside face of the rear glass sheet. This tapes thickness must be suited to the thickness of both the paper and the engagement device. In this instance, it would be 1.0mm thick. Although it is not in direct contact with the watercolour painting on paper, care must be taken to ensure that the seal will not cause the painting any harm due to acidity or out gassing or the like.

7. Apply a smear of adhesive that is compatible with the seal to the four seal joints. In this instance, matching acrylic adhesive is ideal. Upon assembly, this adhesive will fill any possible gaps between the seal joints and thereby ensure the necessary gas and moisture tight seal.

8. Place the front reflection reducing glass sheet in position on the rear glass sheet. 9. Press the two glass sheets together between two boards to establish a good bond between the glass sheets and the adhesive tape seal.

10. Place the sealed glass unit containing the watercolour painting into a conventional wooden frame with a rebate depth sufficiently deep to hide the seal. Place a board of the required colour or texture, and cut to the same size as the glass sheets into the frame against the rear glass sheet. As this backing board is outside the sealed unit containing the painting, it need not be a costly acid-free board. Secure the sealed unit and backing board in the frame with conventional methods used in the picture framing industry, such as framers points and adhesive tape.

Method of mounting a watercolour painting with a window mat board, framed within a conventional aluminium frame.

As the watercolour painting described herein is not sealed between the sheets of material, the requirements for acid free material and acid free engagement devices are less stringent. As such it should be appreciated that the detail in the previous two examples regarding glass, engagement device, relative humidity and moisture content may still be applied to this example, however, some of those requirements may be varied. The preferred thickness of the painting to the gap between the sheets of material is maintained however.

1. Glass to suit the size of the painting and the frame rebate is cut to size.

2. Assemble three of the aluminium frame sections around the glass.

3. A rigid backing board of acrylic, glass or stiff composite board is cut to suit the frames rebate. 4. A window mat of required colour with a window to the required size and position is also cut to the overall size of the above.

5. Cut to the length of the top edge of the watercolour paper an adhesive backed strip made of high coefficient of friction material and place this on the window mat adhesive side down. This should coincide with, and be within the top edge of the watercolour paper.

6. Place a length of double-sided tape or adhesive along the top inside edge of the window mat.

7. Position the painting in the required position on the window mount, against the retaining device.

8. Position the backing board onto the watercolour painting and the adhesive strip or tape on the window mat.

9. Slide the assembled unit into the rebate of the three pre-assembled frame sections.

10. Place the fourth frame section in position and fasten it to the adjoining two sections. In this case, it is a combination of the pressure of the retaining device as sandwiched between the paper, window mat, glass and backing board together with its non-slip properties that will hold the paper in its designated position. It therefore needs to be handled carefully until fully mounted in the frame.

11. Cut to length and insert the plastic gaskets into the frame recess behind the backing board. This procedure is well known to framers, and the aluminium frame sections, hardware and gaskets of varying thickness are freely available. It is the pressure of the gasket that is forced into the rebate that ensures the effectiveness of the retaining device.

Aspects of the present invention have been described by way of example only and it should be appreciated that modifications and additions may be made thereto without departing from the scope thereof as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A display device for displaying at least one item including; at least two sheets of material, wherein at least one sheet of material is light transmissible, and at least one engagement device adapted to engage the display item between the sheets of material, characterised in that the engagement device secures the display item between the sheets of material by creating a region of increased pressure between the display item and the sheets of material when the sheets of material are secured together.

2. A display device as claimed in claim 1 wherein the engagement device reversibly secures the display item between the sheets of material.

3. A display device as claimed in either claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the sheets of material are light transmissible.

4. A display device claimed in any one of the previous claims wherein the sheets of material are sealed at their periphery.

5. A display device as claimed in claim 4 wherein the proportion of display item thickness to seal thickness is in the range of 35 to 70 percent.

6. A display device as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 10 wherein the proportion of display item thickness to seal thickness is in the^' range of 55 to 65 percent.

7. A display device as claimed in claim 4 wherein the seal is substantially clear.

8. A display device claimed in any one of claims 5 to 7 wherein the seal is configured to receive an edging bead.

9. A display device as claimed in any one of the previous claims wherein the display item is smaller in size than the sheets of material.

10. A display device as claimed in any one of the previous claims wherein the display device includes a backing sheet between the sheets of material.

11. An engagement device adapted to engage at least one item to be displayed in a display device as claimed in any of the previous claims.

12. An engagement device as claimed in claim 11 wherein the engagement device reversibly secures the display item between the sheets of material

13. An engagement device as claimed in claim 11 or claim 12 which has a high coefficient of friction.

14. An engagement device as claimed in any one of claims 11 to 13 wherein the engagement device is substantially clear.

15. An engagement device as claimed in any one of claims 11 to 14 wherein the at least one engagement device is tape.

16. An engagement device as claimed in any one of claims 11 to 14 wherein the at least one engagement device is a bead.

17. An engagement device as claimed in any one of claims 12 to 16 wherein the engagement device reversibly secures the display item between the sheets of material by removable adhesive.

18. An engagement device as claimed in any one of claims 12 to 16 wherein the engagement device includes plastic film.

19. A method of displaying at least one item characterised by the steps of a) positioning at least one engagement device on a sheet of material b) positioning the display item on the at least one engagement device c) positioning at least one sheet of light transmissible material on top of the first sheet of material d) securing the sheets of material together.

20. A method as claimed in claim 19 characterised by the further step of: sealing the sheets of material together at their periphery.

21. A method as claimed in claim 20 characterised by the further step of: securing the sealed sheets of material in a frame.

22. A framing device for displaying at least one item, including: a) a frame having a back outer edge and a front outer edge; b) at least two sheets of light transmissible material for holding the item to be displayed; characterised in that the outer edges of the sheets are positioned within the frame between the back outer edge and the front outer edge of the frame.

23. A framing device as claimed in claim 22 wherein the depth of frame is substantially greater than the width of the members making up the frame.

24. A framing device as claimed in either claim 22 or claim 23 wherein the frame includes a removable portion which extends along one edge of the frame characterised in that the portion provides access to a region of the frame that secures the outer edge of the sheets of material in place between the back outer edge and the front outer edge of the frame.

25. A display device substantially as herein described and illustrated by, and with reference to figures 2 to 7

26. An engagement device substantially as herein described and illustrated by, and with reference to figure 2.

27. A method of displaying an item substantially as herein described.

28. A framing device substantially as herein described and illustrated by, and with reference to figures 4-7.