WO2016183309A1

WO2016183309A1 - Picture frames

Info

Publication number: WO2016183309A1
Application number: PCT/US2016/032075
Authority: WO
Inventors: Kimberly A. BAST; John M. BAST
Original assignee: Jbkb Enterprises, Llc
Priority date: 2015-05-13
Filing date: 2016-05-12
Publication date: 2016-11-17
Also published as: US20160331156A1

Abstract

A picture frame generally includes multiple pockets and dividers positioned between the multiple pockets. Each pocket is configured to receive and hold one of the multiple pictures in the picture frame, and includes an opening disposed along an edge portion of the pocket so that a picture can be inserted into and/or removed from the pocket independent of other pictures in other pockets of the picture frame. The dividers are configured to separate the multiple pockets so that, when the multiple pictures are received in the multiple pockets, the dividers inhibit movement of the multiple pictures between the multiple pockets.

Description

PICTURE FRAMES

Cross-Reference to Related Application

[0001] This application is a PCT International Application of, and claims priority to, U. S. Patent Application No. 14/71 1, 105, filed on May 13, 2015. The entire disclosure of the above application is incorporated herein by reference.

Field

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to picture frames and, more particularly, to picture frames for displaying multiple pictures at the same time.

Background

[0003] This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art.

[0004] Picture frames are often used to hold and display pictures. The picture frames may be hung on walls, so that the pictures in the picture frames are viewable. Or, the picture frames may include bases to support the frames on various surfaces (e.g., on furniture, on windowsills, on countertops, etc.), so that the pictures in the picture frames are viewable.

Summary

[0005] This section provides a general summary of the disclosure, and is not a comprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of its features.

[0006] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to picture frames for holding and displaying multiple pictures at the same time.

[0007] In one exemplary embodiment, a picture frame of the present disclosure generally includes multiple pockets, and dividers positioned between the multiple pockets. Each of the pockets is configured to receive and hold one of multiple pictures in the picture frame, and includes an opening (e.g., an access opening, etc.) disposed along an edge portion of the pocket (e.g., an edge portion along a periphery of the picture frame, etc.) so that a picture can be inserted into and/or removed from the pocket, through the opening, independent of other pictures in other pockets of the picture frame. The dividers are configured to separate the multiple pockets so that, when the multiple pictures are received in the multiple pockets, the dividers inhibit movement of the multiple pictures between the multiple pockets, but still allow access to pictures in individual ones of the pockets.

[0008] In another exemplary embodiment, a picture frame of the present disclosure generally includes a display for holding multiple pictures, and a base configured to support the display so that, when the multiple pictures are held in the display, the multiple pictures are viewable in the display at the same time. The display includes multiple pockets, and dividers positioned between the multiple pockets. Each of the pockets of the display is configured to receive one of the multiple pictures in the display. And, the dividers are configured to separate the multiple pockets to inhibit the multiple pictures, when received in the multiple pockets in the display, from moving between adjacent ones of the multiple pockets (e.g., and overlapping with other pictures in the display of the picture frame, etc.).

[0009] Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein. The description and specific examples in this summary are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

Drawings

[0010] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected embodiments and not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a picture frame including one or more aspects of the present disclosure;

[0012] FIG. 2 is a front elevation view of the picture frame of FIG. 1 ;

[0013] FIG. 3 is a rear elevation view of the picture frame of FIG. 1 ;

[0014] FIG. 4 is a side elevation view of the picture frame of FIG. 1 ;

[0015] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a picture frame including one or more aspects of the present disclosure;

[0016] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the picture frame of FIG. 5;

[0017] FIG. 7 is a rear elevation view of another exemplary embodiment of a picture frame including one or more aspects of the present disclosure; [0018] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of yet another exemplary embodiment of a picture frame including one or more aspects of the present disclosure;

[0019] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a picture frame including one or more aspects of the present disclosure; and

[0020] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a picture frame including one or more aspects of the present disclosure.

[0021] Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings.

Detailed Description

[0022] The description and specific examples provided herein are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0023] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to picture frames, for example, for displaying multiple pictures at the same time. Numerous different orientations of the pictures can be utilized in the picture frames in various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0024] In some embodiments, the picture frames include display portions having multiple pockets, each configured to receive and hold individual ones of the multiple pictures in the picture frames, without overlapping or interfering with pictures in other pockets (e.g., adjacent pockets, etc.) of the picture frames. As such, pictures in select ones of the pockets can be exchanged with other pictures, without altering, affecting, accessing, etc. the remaining pictures in the picture frames (e.g., the remaining pictures in the picture frames can remain the same and do not need to be accessed in order to exchange the other pictures in the picture frames, etc.). In addition, in some embodiments, the picture frames include dividers between the multiple pockets so that pictures received in the pockets are inhibited from moving into other pockets (e.g., into adjacent pockets, etc.).

[0025] In some embodiments, the pockets of the picture frames include openings that allow pictures to be inserted into and/or removed from the pockets, without affecting pictures in other pockets. As such, the pictures can be inserted and/or removed from the pockets, through the openings, without disassembling or removing or deforming any portions of the picture frames. In some of these embodiments, the openings are associated with the pockets along side portions of the picture frames to allow for easy access (along the sides of the picture frames) to the pockets (i.e., for inserting and/or removing pictures from the pockets).

[0026] In some embodiments, the picture frames include bases configured to support the picture frames (e.g., the display portions of the picture frames, etc.) on surfaces at desired angles, for example, for viewing the pictures in the picture frames. In other embodiments, the picture frames (e.g., the display portions of the picture frames, etc.) are configured to hang (e.g., to be mounted to walls, to be hung via eyelets coupled to the picture frames, etc.), for viewing the pictures in the picture frames (e.g., and the picture frames may or may not include bases, etc.).

[0027] With reference now to the drawings, FIGS. 1-4 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a picture frame 100 including one or more aspects of the present disclosure. The picture frame 100 can be used, for example, for displaying multiple pictures in a unique orientation (e.g., a pinwheel orientation, etc.), so that each of the multiple pictures is viewable in the picture frame 100 at the same time. In addition, individual ones of the multiple pictures, when in the picture frame 100, can be selectively removed without accessing other ones of the pictures in the picture frame 100. As such, select pictures in the picture frame 100 can be easily exchanged with different pictures, as desired, without affecting other pictures in the picture frame 100.

[0028] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the illustrated picture frame 100 generally includes a display 102 for holding the multiple pictures, and a base 104 coupled to the display 102 for supporting the display 102 on a surface (e.g., on a table surface, a shelf surface, etc.). In the illustrated embodiment, the base 104 and the display 102 are integral (e.g., form a single piece or structure, etc.), with the display 102 coupled to the base 104 along an edge portion of the base 104. In other embodiments, picture frames may include displays releasably coupled to bases (see, e.g., picture frame 200 in FIGS. 5 and 6, etc.). In addition, in other embodiments, picture frames may include displays coupled to central portions of the bases (e.g., inward of edge portions such as, for example, shown in FIGS. 5 and 6; with peripheral edges of the displays integrally formed along axes of the bases, etc.).

[0029] The display 102 and the base 104 of the picture frame 100 can be constructed from any suitable material, for example, plastic, glass, metal, etc. In addition, the display 102 and the base 104 can be constructed from the same material, or from different material, as desired. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the display 102 and the base 104 are both constructed from a generally transparent plastic material. As such, forward and rearward surfaces 106 and 108 of the display 102 (see, also, FIG. 3) are generally transparent. Pictures received in the display 102 are thus visible, or viewable, from both the front and the back of the picture frame 100. For example, images included on the pictures may be viewable through the forward surface 106 of the display 102 while captions and/or labels on the back of the pictures may be viewable through the rearward surface 108 of the display 102. Or, pictures may be positioned in the display 102 generally back to back, such that images included on both pictures are viewable through the forward and rearward surfaces 106 and 108, from the front and back of the picture frame 100 (and thus can be displayed at the same time). Alternatively, in other embodiments, only the forward surface 106 may be transparent while the rearward surface 108 may be translucent, opaque, etc.

[0030] The display 102 of the picture frame 100 also includes four pockets 1 10-1 16 (e.g., compartments, receptacles, etc.), each configured to receive, hold, store, protect, display, etc. at least one of the multiple pictures in the picture frame 100. In other exemplary embodiments, picture frames may include more than or fewer than four pockets.

[0031] In the illustrated embodiment, the pockets 1 10-1 16 of the display 102 are generally sized to receive pictures having dimensions of about four inches by about six inches. As such, and without limitation, the illustrated display 102 has dimensions of about ten inches by about ten inches. However, it should be appreciated that the display 102 could have other dimensions as desired, for example, if borders or spaces are provided around the pockets 1 10- 1 16 or around a perimeter of the display 102, if different numbers of pockets are provided, if different arrangements of pockets are provided, etc. In addition, in other exemplary embodiments picture frames may include displays with pockets sized to receive pictures having other desired dimensions, for example, five inches by seven inches, eight inches by ten inches, etc.

[0032] Also in the illustrated embodiment, the pockets 1 10-1 16 of the display 102 are arranged (or oriented) in a generally pinwheel configuration. In particular, first and third pockets 1 10 and 1 14 are arranged in a generally horizontal (e.g., a generally landscape, etc.) orientation (broadly, a first orientation), and second and fourth pockets 1 12 and 1 16 are arranged in a generally vertical (e.g., a generally portrait, etc.) orientation (broadly, a second orientation). The first and third pockets 1 10 and 1 14 (and the pictures therein) are thus arranged generally perpendicular to the second and fourth pockets 1 12 and 1 16 (and the pictures therein). In other exemplary embodiments, picture frames may include pockets arranged in other configurations than illustrated in FIGS. 1-4 (see, e.g., FIGS. 8-10, etc.), and/or may include pockets having other orientations (e.g., pockets oriented at angles (e.g., at forty-five degree angles, etc.)). With that said, it should be appreciated that, in various embodiments, pockets of picture frames can be oriented to specific requirements and/or desires of a user.

[0033] Further, the pockets 1 10-1 16 of the display 102 are arranged around a generally central spacer 120 (or gap, etc.). In some aspects, the spacer 120 can be utilized to include decorations and/or lettering (e.g., notes, phrases, etc.) in the display 102 as desired. For example, such decorations and/or lettering may be coupled to the spacer 120 (e.g., via adhesives, mechanical fasteners, etc.), or separately inserted (e.g., the spacer 120 may be removable from the display 102 and exchanged with other spacers, etc.). In the illustrated embodiment, the spacer 120 is generally square-shaped. However, in other embodiments, picture frames may include displays with spacers having other shapes (e.g., generally rectangular shapes, generally rounded shapes, etc.) depending, for example, on sizes, shapes, orientations, numbers, etc. of pockets included in the displays.

[0034] The pockets 1 10-1 16 of the display 102 also include (or define) access openings (broadly, openings), each indicated at 122, for allowing pictures to be inserted into and/or removed from the pockets 1 10-1 16, through the access openings 122, independent of other pictures in other pockets 1 10-1 16 in the display 102. The access openings 122 are located along outer, side edge portions (e.g., lateral peripheral edge portions, etc.) of the pockets 1 10- 1 16. In particular, the access openings 122 are located along (or form at least part of) first edge portions of the first and third pockets 1 10 and 1 14, and along third edge portions of the second and fourth pockets 1 12 and 1 16. As such, the pictures can be easily inserted into and/or removed from the pockets 1 10-1 16 at the sides of the display 102 (via the access openings 122). In the illustrated embodiment, no access openings are located along either the outer, upper or lower edge portions of the pockets 1 10-1 16 (i.e., along second edge portions of the first and second pockets 1 10 and 1 12, or along fourth edge portions of the third and fourth pockets 1 14 and 1 16).

[0035] In other exemplary embodiments, picture frames may include displays with pockets having access openings alternatively (or additionally) disposed along interior edge portions of the pockets. In still other exemplary embodiments, picture frames may include displays with pockets having access openings alternatively (or additionally) disposed along upper edge portions of the pockets (e.g., of upper pockets, etc.). In addition, in still other exemplary embodiments, picture frames may include displays with pockets having openings alternatively (or additionally) disposed along lower edge portions of the pockets (e.g., of lower pockets, etc.).

[0036] With continued reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the display 102 of the picture frame 100 also includes dividers, each indicated at 124, positioned generally between the pockets 1 10-1 16. The dividers 124 are configured to separate the pockets 1 10-1 16 so that, when the pictures are received in the pockets 1 10-1 16, movement of the pictures between the pockets 1 10- 1 16 (e.g., vertical movement, horizontal movement, etc.) is generally inhibited. As such, the dividers 124 help hold, secure, retain, etc. the pictures in their intended pockets 1 10-1 16, and in their intended orientations, and help facilitate access, via the access openings 122, to individual ones of the pictures in the display 102 without also accessing or disturbing other pictures (in other pockets 1 10-1 16) in the display 102.

[0037] The display 102 of the illustrated picture frame 100 includes four dividers 124. However, in other embodiments, displays of picture frames may include more than or fewer than four dividers depending, for example, on the number of pockets, orientation of pockets, etc. In addition, it should be appreciated that the dividers 124 may be separate structures coupled to or formed integrally with the display 102 of the picture frame 100, and disposed between the forward and rearward surfaces 106 and 108 of the display 102 at the locations generally between the pockets 1 10-116. Further, the dividers 124 may have any desired configuration, for example, based on aesthetic desires, etc. For example, in the illustrated embodiment the dividers 124 are thin (or narrow) in configuration so that pictures in adjacent ones of the pockets 1 10-1 16 are closely adjacent to each other. Alternatively, the dividers 124, for example, may include bands with relatively wider widths such that the displayed pictures appear to be spaced apart from each other, or the dividers 124 may include spaced apart pins or tacks or pegs between adjacent pockets 110-1 16. Further, and as previously described, no access openings are located along either the outer, upper or lower edge portions of the pockets (i.e., along upper edge portions of the first and second pockets 1 10 and 1 12, and along lower edge portions of the third and fourth pockets 1 14 and 1 16). In various aspects, these upper and lower edge portions, not having the access openings, may also be considered dividers.

[0038] With additional reference to FIG. 3, the pockets 1 10-1 16 of the display 102 further include thumb slots (broadly, openings), each indicated at 128, configured to allow access to pictures received in the pockets 1 10-1 16. As such, the thumb slots 128 can help facilitate removal of the pictures from the pockets 1 10-1 16 through the access openings 122 (e.g., via grasping the pictures at the thumb slots 128, etc.). In addition, in some aspects, the thumb slots 128 may also help facilitate insertion of the pictures into the pockets 1 10-1 16 through the access openings 122. The thumb slots 128 are generally sized and shaped to accommodate a user' s finger, for engaging the pictures. In the illustrated embodiment, the thumb slots 128 define generally semi-circle shapes located along the access openings 122 of the pockets 1 10-1 16. However, it should be appreciated that one or more of the thumb slots 128 may include other shapes and/or sizes, as desired, and may be located differently than illustrated herein.

[0039] With further reference now to FIG. 4, the base 104 of the picture frame 100 is configured to support the display 102 so that the picture frame 100 can be placed on a surface (e.g., a surface of furniture, windowsill, countertop, etc.) and display multiple pictures received in the multiple pockets 1 10-1 16 at the same time. In addition, the base 104 is configured to support the display 102 on the surface at an angle (e.g., at an angle of about ninety degrees or less such as about sixty degrees, about seventy degrees, about seventy-five degrees, etc.), for example, to allow for (or, in some embodiments, to optimize, etc.) viewing of the pictures in the picture frame 100. As such, the base 104 and the display 102 define a generally "L" shape or a generally "7" shape (e.g., depending on an angle of the display 102 relative to the base 104, etc.). With that said, it should be appreciated that the angle between the display 102 and the base 104 can be configured as desired to suit different heights of surfaces and desired eye level views, etc.

[0040] In other exemplary embodiments, picture frames may include displays and bases where the displays are pivotal relative to the bases (e.g., are pivotally coupled to the bases by hinges (e.g., mechanical hinges associated with, or coupled to, the bases and/or the displays; living hinges; etc.), etc.). As such, in these embodiments, the displays can be moved, or adjusted, relative to the bases to change angles between the displays and the bases (e.g., for storage or shipping (where the displays may collapse against the bases), for optimizing viewing angles, etc.). In addition, in some of these embodiments, the bases and/or the displays of the picture frames may include structure (e.g., detents, latches, friction-based devices, etc.) that operate to hold or secure the bases and the displays at the desired angles.

[0041] In the illustrated embodiment, the base 104 of the picture frame 100 is generally flat and defines a generally rectangular shape. In other embodiments, picture frames may have bases with other shapes, for example, circular, triangular, trapezoidal, etc. In addition, in other embodiments picture frames may have bases with other configurations, for example, one or more pegs, etc. for supporting displays of the picture frames, etc.

[0042] As can be seen, the picture frame 100 provides easy access for inserting and/or removing pictures from the pockets 1 10-1 16 of the display 102 of the picture frame 100. For example, the access openings 122 associated with the pockets 1 10-1 16 allow for inserting and/or removing pictures from the pockets 1 10-1 16, through the access openings 122, without separating the forward and rearward surfaces 106 and 108 of the display 102, without adjusting or raising flaps of the display 106, etc. (as typically required in current picture frames). What' s more, the location of the access openings 122 along the sides of the display 102 provide for ease and convenience in accessing the access openings 122.

[0043] FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate another exemplary embodiment of a picture frame 200 including one or more aspects of the present disclosure. The picture frame 200 can be used, for example, for displaying multiple pictures in a unique orientation (e.g., a pinwheel orientation, etc.), so that each of the multiple pictures is viewable in the picture frame 200 at the same time. With that said, it should be appreciated that the picture frame 200 of this embodiment is substantially similar to the picture frame 100 previously described and illustrated in FIGS. 1-4. And, the previous description of the picture frame 100, and its various components, generally applies to the picture frame 200.

[0044] For example, the picture frame 200 generally includes a display 202 for holding the multiple pictures, and a base 204 coupled to the display 202 for supporting the display 202 on a surface (e.g., on a table surface, a shelf surface, etc.). The display 202 also includes four pockets 210-216 (e.g., compartments, receptacles, etc.) arranged in a generally pinwheel configuration, and each configured to receive, hold, store, protect, display, etc. at least one of the multiple pictures in the picture frame 200. And, dividers, each indicated at 224, are positioned generally between the pockets 210-216 for separating the pockets 210-216 so that, when the pictures are received in the pockets 210-216, movement of the pictures between the pockets 210-216 (e.g., vertical movement, horizontal movement, etc.) is generally inhibited.

[0045] In this embodiment, the display 202 of the picture frame 200 can be releasably coupled to the base 204. In particular, the base 204 includes (or defines) a channel 240 (or groove, etc.) extending generally across a length of the base 204. And, the display 202 is configured to releasably fit within (or be received within) the channel 240 to thereby releasably couple the display 202 to the base 204. While the display 202 is shown as oriented generally vertically relative to the base 204 (e.g., at an angle of about ninety degrees relative to the base 204, etc.), in other embodiments the display 202 may be oriented at an angle relative to the base 204 (e.g., the channel 240 of the base 204 may be configured generally at an angle so that when the display 202 is received in the channel 240 it is disposed at an angle relative to the base 204, etc.).

[0046] In addition in this embodiment, the display 202 is moveable relative to the base 204 between various different positions. For example, the display 202 can be coupled to the base 204 in a first position (FIG. 5), in which the pockets 210-216 of the display 202 are arranged in a first orientation (e.g., generally horizontally, generally vertically, etc.). The display 202 can then be uncoupled from the base 204 and rotated, for example, ninety degrees and recoupled to the base in a second position in which the pockets 210-216 of the display 202 are arranged in a second orientation (e.g., rotated ninety degrees relative to the first orientation and generally perpendicular to the first orientation, etc.). As such, the releasable coupling of the display 202 to the base 204 provides flexibility in orientations of the display 202 (relative to the base 204).

[0047] Further in this embodiment, the pictures are frictionally engaged in the pockets 210-216 of the display 202, so that the pictures do not drop from the pockets, 210-216 through access openings 222 of the pockets 210-216, when the display 202 is rotated. However, in other embodiments, picture frames may include displays with structure (e.g., latches, clips, etc.) configured to extend across access openings of pockets to help inhibit pictures received in the pockets from falling out or being inadvertently removed.

[0048] What' s more, it should be appreciated that the display 202 of the picture frame 200, in this embodiment, may be used without the base 204. For example, the display 202 may also (or alternatively) be configured to hang on a wall (e.g., via eyelets coupled to the display 202, via a wire coupled to the display 202, etc.) for displaying pictures received within the display 202, without use of the base. Or, the display 202 may also (or alternatively) be configured to sit directly on a surface, without using the base 204 (e.g., on a narrowed surface that may not be able to accommodate the base 204, etc.).

[0049] FIG. 7 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a picture frame 300 including one or more aspects of the present disclosure. The picture frame 300 can be used, for example, for displaying multiple pictures in a unique orientation (e.g., a pinwheel orientation, etc.), so that each of the multiple pictures is viewable in the picture frame 300 at the same time. With that said, it should be appreciated that the picture frame 300 of this embodiment is substantially similar to the picture frame 100 previously described and illustrated in FIGS. 1-4. And, the previous description of the picture frame 100, and its various components, generally applies to the picture frame 300.

[0050] For example, the picture frame 300 generally includes a display 302 for holding the multiple pictures, and a base 304 coupled to the display 302 for supporting the display 302 on a surface (e.g., on a table surface, a shelf surface, etc.). The display 302 also includes four pockets 310-316 (e.g., compartments, receptacles, etc.) arranged in a generally pinwheel configuration, and each configured to receive, hold, store, protect, display, etc. at least one of the multiple pictures in the picture frame 300. And, dividers, each indicated at 324, are positioned generally between the pockets 310-316 for separating the pockets 310-316 so that, when the pictures are received in the pockets 310-316, movement of the pictures between the pockets 310-316 (e.g., vertical movement, horizontal movement, etc.) is generally inhibited.

[0051] In this embodiment, the pockets 310-316 of the display 302 include thumb slots (broadly, openings), each indicated at 328, disposed generally centrally (e.g., generally inwardly of edge portions of the pockets 310-316, etc.) in a rearward surface 308 of the display 302 for use in accessing pictures received in the pockets 310-316 and/or pictures being inserted into the pockets 310-316. As such, the thumb slots 328 can be used to help remove and/or insert pictures from and/or into the pockets 310-316 of the display 302. For example, in connection with removing pictures from the pockets 310-316 of the display 302, the thumb slots 328 allow a user to engage a finger with back portions of the pictures through the thumb slots 328 so that the backs of the pictures are frictionally engaged and can then be slid outwardly from the display 302. [0052] In addition in this embodiment, the thumb slots 328 are each generally elongated and oval in shape and are sized to accommodate receiving a thumb or finger. However, one or more of the thumb slots may 328 be sized and/or shaped differently within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0053] FIG. 8 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a picture frame 400 including one or more aspects of the present disclosure. The picture frame 400 can be used, for example, for displaying multiple pictures in a unique orientation (e.g., a "3 " orientation, etc.), so that each of the multiple pictures is viewable in the picture frame 400 at the same time. With that said, it should be appreciated that the picture frame 400 of this embodiment is substantially similar to the picture frame 100 previously described and illustrated in FIGS. 1 -4. And, the previous description of the picture frame 100, and various components, generally applies to the picture frame 400.

[0054] For example, the picture frame 400 generally includes a display 402 for holding the multiple pictures, and a base 404 coupled to the display 402 for supporting the display 402 on a surface (e.g., on a table surface, a shelf surface, etc.). The display 402 also includes pockets 410-418 (e.g., compartments, receptacles, etc.), each configured to receive, hold, store, protect, display, etc. at least one of the multiple pictures in the picture frame 400. And, dividers, each indicated at 424, are positioned generally between the pockets 410-418 for separating the pockets 410-418 so that, when the pictures are received in the pockets 410-418, movement of the pictures between the pockets 410-418 (e.g., vertical movement, horizontal movement, etc.) is generally inhibited.

[0055] In this embodiment, the display includes five pockets 410-418 (e.g., compartments, receptacles, etc.), each configured to receive, hold, store, protect, display, etc. at least one of the multiple pictures in the picture frame 400. The pockets 410-418 are arranged (or oriented) in a generally "3"-shaped configuration. In particular, first, second and third pockets 410-414 are generally vertically aligned (toward a left portion of the display 402 as viewed in FIG. 8) and are arranged in a generally horizontal (e.g., a generally landscape, etc.) orientation (broadly, a first orientation). And, fourth and fifth pockets 416 and 418 are generally vertically aligned (toward a right portion of the display 402 as viewed in FIG. 8) and are arranged in a generally vertical (e.g., a generally portrait, etc.) orientation (broadly, a second orientation). The first, second and third pockets 410-414 (and the pictures therein) are thus arranged generally perpendicular to the fourth and fifth pockets 416 and 418 (and the pictures therein).

[0056] In addition in this embodiment, the pockets 410-418 of the display 402 are generally sized to receive pictures having dimensions of about four inches by about six inches. As such, and without limitation, the illustrated display 402 has dimensions of about ten inches by about twelve inches.

[0057] FIG. 9 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a picture frame 500 including one or more aspects of the present disclosure. The picture frame 500 can be used, for example, for displaying multiple pictures in another unique orientation (e.g., a "W" orientation, etc.), so that each of the multiple pictures is viewable in the picture frame 500 at the same time. With that said, it should be appreciated that the picture frame 500 of this embodiment is substantially similar to the picture frame 100 previously described and illustrated in FIGS. 1-4. And, the previous description of the picture frame 100, and various components, generally applies to the picture frame 500.

[0058] For example, the picture frame 500 generally includes a display 502 for holding the multiple pictures, and a base 504 coupled to the display 502 for supporting the display 502 on a surface (e.g., on a table surface, a shelf surface, etc.). The display 502 also includes pockets 510-518 (e.g., compartments, receptacles, etc.), each configured to receive, hold, store, protect, display, etc. at least one of the multiple pictures in the picture frame 500. And, dividers, each indicated at 524, are positioned generally between the pockets 510-518 for separating the pockets 510-518 so that, when the pictures are received in the pockets 510-518, movement of the pictures between the pockets 510-518 (e.g., vertical movement, horizontal movement, etc.) is generally inhibited.

[0059] In this embodiment, the display 502 includes five pockets 510-518 (e.g., compartments, receptacles, etc.), each configured to receive, hold, store, protect, display, etc. at least one of the multiple pictures in the picture frame 500. The pockets 510-518 are arranged (or oriented) in a generally "W"-shaped configuration. In particular, first, second and third pockets 510-514 are generally horizontally aligned (toward an upper portion of the display 502 as viewed in FIG. 9) and are arranged in a generally vertical (e.g., a generally portrait, etc.) orientation (broadly, a first orientation). And, fourth and fifth pockets 516 and 518 are generally horizontally aligned (toward a lower portion of the display 502 as viewed in FIG. 9) and are arranged in a generally horizontal (e.g., a generally landscape, etc.) orientation (broadly, a second orientation). The first, second and third pockets 510-514 (and the pictures therein) are thus arranged generally perpendicular to the fourth and fifth pockets 516 and 518 (and the pictures therein).

[0060] In addition in this embodiment, the pockets 510-518 of the display 502 are generally sized to receive pictures having dimensions of about four inches by about six inches. As such, and without limitation, the illustrated display 502 has dimensions of about twelve inches by about ten inches.

[0061] FIG. 10 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a picture frame 600 including one or more aspects of the present disclosure. The picture frame 600 can be used, for example, for displaying multiple pictures in still another unique orientation (e.g., a "E" orientation, etc.), so that each of the multiple pictures is viewable in the picture frame 600 at the same time. With that said, it should be appreciated that the picture frame 600 of this embodiment is substantially similar to the picture frame 100 previously described and illustrated in FIGS. 1-4. And, the previous description of the picture frame 100, and various components, generally applies to the picture frame 600.

[0062] For example, the picture frame 600 generally includes a display 602 for holding the multiple pictures, and a base 604 coupled to the display 602 for supporting the display 602 on a surface (e.g., on a table surface, a shelf surface, etc.). The display 602 also includes pockets 610-618 (e.g., compartments, receptacles, etc.), each configured to receive, hold, store, protect, display, etc. at least one of the multiple pictures in the picture frame 600. And, dividers, each indicated at 624, are positioned generally between the pockets 610-618 for separating the pockets 610-618 so that, when the pictures are received in the pockets 610-618, movement of the pictures between the pockets 610-618 (e.g., vertical movement, horizontal movement, etc.) is generally inhibited.

[0063] In this embodiment, the display 602 includes five pockets 610-618 (e.g., compartments, receptacles, etc.), each configured to receive, hold, store, protect, display, etc. at least one of the multiple pictures in the picture frame 600. The pockets 610-618 are arranged (or oriented) in a generally "E"-shaped configuration. In particular, first and second pockets 610 and 612 are generally vertically aligned (toward a left portion of the display 602 as viewed in FIG. 10) and are arranged in a generally vertical (e.g., a generally portrait, etc.) orientation (broadly, a first orientation). And, third, fourth and fifth pockets 614-618 are generally vertically aligned (toward a right portion of the display 602 as viewed in FIG. 10) and are arranged in a generally horizontal (e.g., a generally landscape, etc.) orientation (broadly, a second orientation). The first and second pockets 610 and 612 (and the pictures therein) are thus arranged generally perpendicular to the third, fourth and fifth pockets 614-618 (and the pictures therein).

[0064] In addition in this embodiment, the pockets 610-618 of the display 602 are generally sized to receive pictures having dimensions of about four inches by about six inches. As such, and without limitation, the illustrated display 602 has dimensions of about ten inches by about twelve inches.

[0065] In some exemplary embodiments, picture frames may include trim pieces configured to couple to displays of the picture frames generally along edge portions of the displays. The trim pieces may then operate to cover access openings in the displays and help inhibit inadvertent removal of pictures from the display. The trim pieces may couple to the displays as desired, for example, they may snap-fit to the displays, friction-fit to the displays, etc. Further, in some exemplary embodiments, trim pieces may be included along the displays of the picture frames, for example, to hide or conceal dividers of the picture frames, etc. In these embodiments, the dividers may be coupled to the displays as desired, for example, via adhesive, mechanical fasteners, etc.

[0066] Exemplary embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully convey the scope to those who are skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are set forth such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example embodiments may be embodied in many different forms and that neither should be construed to limit the scope of the disclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well- known technologies are not described in detail.

[0067] Specific dimensions, specific materials, and/or specific shapes disclosed herein are example in nature and do not limit the scope of the present disclosure. The disclosure herein of particular values and particular ranges of values for given parameters are not exclusive of other values and ranges of values that may be useful in one or more of the examples disclosed herein. Moreover, it is envisioned that any two particular values for a specific parameter stated herein may define the endpoints of a range of values that may be suitable for the given parameter (i.e., the disclosure of a first value and a second value for a given parameter can be interpreted as disclosing that any value between the first and second values could also be employed for the given parameter). For example, if Parameter X is exemplified herein to have value A and also exemplified to have value Z, it is envisioned that parameter X may have a range of values from about A to about Z. Similarly, it is envisioned that disclosure of two or more ranges of values for a parameter (whether such ranges are nested, overlapping or distinct) subsume all possible combination of ranges for the value that might be claimed using endpoints of the disclosed ranges. For example, if parameter X is exemplified herein to have values in the range of 1 - 10, or 2 - 9, or 3 - 8, it is also envisioned that Parameter X may have other ranges of values including 1 - 9, 1 - 8, 1 - 3, 1 - 2, 2 - 10, 2 - 8, 2 - 3, 3 - 10, and 3 - 9.

[0068] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms "comprises," "comprising," "including," and "having," are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order of performance. It is also to be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.

[0069] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "engaged to," "connected to," or "coupled to" another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on," "directly engaged to," "directly connected to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion (e.g., "between" versus "directly between," "adjacent" versus "directly adjacent," etc.). As used herein, the term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. [0070] The term "about" when applied to values indicates that the calculation or the measurement allows some slight imprecision in the value (with some approach to exactness in the value; approximately or reasonably close to the value; nearly). If, for some reason, the imprecision provided by "about" is not otherwise understood in the art with this ordinary meaning, then "about" as used herein indicates at least variations that may arise from ordinary methods of measuring or using such parameters. For example, the terms "generally," "about," and "substantially," may be used herein to mean within manufacturing tolerances. Or for example, the term "about" as used herein when modifying a quantity of an ingredient or reactant of the invention or employed refers to variation in the numerical quantity that can happen through typical measuring and handling procedures used, for example, when making concentrates or solutions in the real world through inadvertent error in these procedures; through differences in the manufacture, source, or purity of the ingredients employed to make the compositions or carry out the methods; and the like. The term "about" also encompasses amounts that differ due to different equilibrium conditions for a composition resulting from a particular initial mixture. Whether or not modified by the term "about," the claims include equivalents to the quantities.

[0071] Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as "first," "second," and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments.

[0072] Spatially relative terms, such as "inner," "outer," "beneath," "below," "lower," "above," "upper," and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as "below" or "beneath" other elements or features would then be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the example term "below" can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

[0073] With that said, the foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be used in a selected embodiment, even if not specifically shown or described. The same may also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.

Claims

Claims What is claimed is:

1. A picture frame for displaying multiple pictures, so that each of the multiple pictures is viewable in the picture frame at the same time, the picture frame comprising:

multiple pockets each configured to receive and hold one of the multiple pictures in the picture frame, each of the multiple pockets including an access opening disposed along an edge portion of the pocket so that a picture can be inserted into and/or removed from the pocket independent of other ones of the multiple pictures in other ones of the multiple pockets in the picture frame; and

dividers positioned between the multiple pockets, the dividers configured to separate the multiple pockets so that, when the multiple pictures are received in the multiple pockets, the dividers inhibit movement of the multiple pictures between the multiple pockets.

2. The picture frame of claim 1, wherein each of the multiple pockets further includes a slot configured to provide access to a picture received in the corresponding pocket having the slot, to help facilitate removal of the picture from said pocket.

3. The picture frame of claim 2, wherein the multiple pockets include a first pocket, the slot of the first pocket disposed along the edge portion of the first pocket.

4. The picture frame of claim 2, wherein the multiple pockets include a first pocket, the slot of the first pocket disposed generally inwardly of the edge portion of the first pocket.

5. The picture frame of claim 1, wherein at least one of the multiple pockets is arranged in a first orientation, and at least another one of the multiple pockets is arranged in a second orientation generally perpendicular to the first orientation, such that the at least one of the multiple pockets is oriented generally perpendicular to the at least another one of the multiple pockets.

6. The picture frame of claim 5, wherein the multiple pockets include four pockets.

7. The picture frame of claim 5, wherein the multiple pockets include five pockets.

8. The picture frame of claim 1, wherein the multiple pockets include a first pocket, and wherein the access opening of the first pocket is disposed along a first edge portion of the first pocket so that a picture can be inserted into and/or removed from the first pocket, through the access opening at the first edge portion, independent of other ones of the multiple pictures in other ones of the multiple pockets in the picture frame; and

wherein the dividers include a first divider extending at least partially along a second edge portion of the first pocket, and a second divider extending at least partially along a third edge portion of the first pocket.

9. The picture frame of claim 1, wherein the edge portion of each of the multiple pockets does not include one of the dividers.

10. A picture frame for displaying multiple pictures, the picture frame comprising: a display for holding the multiple pictures, the display including:

multiple pockets each configured to receive one of the multiple pictures in the display; and

dividers positioned between the multiple pockets and configured to separate the multiple pockets, to inhibit the multiple pictures, when received in the multiple pockets, from moving between adjacent ones of the multipole pockets; and

a base configured to support the display so that, when the multiple pictures are received in the multiple pockets of the display, the multiple pictures are viewable in the display at the same time.

11. The picture frame of claim 10, wherein the display is oriented, relative to the base, at an angle of less than about ninety degrees.

12. The picture frame of claim 10, wherein the display is oriented, relative to the base, at an angle of about ninety degrees.

13. The picture frame of claim 10, wherein the base is integrally formed with the display.

14. The picture frame of claim 10, wherein the display is releasably coupled to the base.

15. The picture frame of claim 14, wherein the base defines a groove configured to receive the display in the groove, to thereby releasably couple the display to the base.

16. The picture frame of claim 14, wherein the display is moveable relative to the base between a first position, in which at least one of the multiple pockets is arranged in a first orientation, and a second position in which the at least one of the multiple pockets is arranged in a second orientation generally perpendicular to the first orientation.

17. The picture frame of claim 10, wherein at least one of the multiple pockets is arranged in a first orientation, and at least another one of the multiple pockets is arranged in a second orientation generally perpendicular to the first orientation.

18. The picture frame of claim 10, wherein the display includes a first side portion and a second side portion, the first side portion including transparent material so that the multiple pictures, when received in the multiple pockets, are viewable in the display through the transparent material of the first side portion.

19. The picture frame of claim 18, wherein the second side portion of the display includes transparent material so that the multiple pictures, when received in the multiple pockets, are viewable in the display through the transparent material of the second side portion.

20. The picture frame of claim 10, wherein each of the multiple pockets includes an opening disposed along an edge portion of the pocket so that a picture can be inserted into and/or removed from the pocket through the opening independent of other ones of the multiple pictures in other ones of the multiple pockets of the display.