WO2017091849A1

WO2017091849A1 - Modular display system for displaying models

Info

Publication number: WO2017091849A1
Application number: PCT/AU2016/051167
Authority: WO
Inventors: Andrew Helmut EICHLER
Original assignee: Eichler Andrew Helmut
Priority date: 2015-11-30
Filing date: 2016-11-30
Publication date: 2017-06-08
Also published as: US20180360234A1; CN108471890A

Abstract

A display module for a modular display system is provided that is highly configurable. The module is for displaying a model and includes: a base, for supporting the model; and one or more sidewalls, extending upwardly from the base to at least partially surround the model; wherein the base includes a plurality of coupling elements, for coupling the module to an adjacent module.

Description

MODULAR DISPLAY SYSTEM FOR DISPLAYING MODELS

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to display systems. In particular, the present invention relates to modular display systems for displaying models, such as 1:18 scale diecast model cars.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] The collection of model cars has increased in popularity since the 1970s, and particularly in relation to high quality models. Many of these model cars are made specifically for adults, and may include doors and bonnets that open, revealing detailed interiors and engine bays. As a result of such high levels of detail, these model cars are generally expensive.

[0003] As these model cars are valuable, it is desirable to protect them from dust and unwanted handling. As a result, display containers have been developed which protect the car from dust and handling. Often these display containers are stackable, enabling the user to display a relatively large number of cars in a small area.

[0004] A problem with such display containers of the prior art, is that they are not visually appealing, particularly when in large numbers, and do not allow for sufficient customisation of the display. As a result, many serious collectors have moved to bespoke display systems for displaying their model cars.

[0005] While such bespoke display systems are generally attractive, they are not easily expandable. The nature of collecting model cars means that collections generally change over time, and in particular grow in size. As a result, collectors often out grow such display systems, which are costly to replace. Alternatively, collectors may chose a larger display system, which they can grow into, or choose to crowd an existing system. Either way, such displays systems are generally not attractive in such configurations.

[0006] As a result, there is clearly a need for an improved display system.

[0007] It will be clearly understood that, if a prior art publication is referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms part of the common general knowledge in the art in Australia or in any other country.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0008] The present invention is directed to a modular display system, which may at least partially overcome at least one of the abovementioned disadvantages or provide the consumer with a useful or commercial choice.

[0009] With the foregoing in view, the present invention in a first aspect, resides broadly in a display module for a modular display system, the module for displaying a model and including:

a base, for supporting the model; and

one or more sidewalls, extending upwardly from the base to at least partially surround the model;

wherein the base includes a plurality of coupling elements, for coupling the module to an adjacent module.

[0010] Preferably, the one or more sidewalls are at least partly transparent. Suitably, the one or more sidewalls are integrally formed of a transparent material. Suitably, the transparent material comprises acrylic.

[0011] Preferably, the model is a model car. Suitably, the model is 1:18 scale.

[0012] Preferably, the module includes corner blocks, with which upper corners of the sidewalls releasably attach. Suitably, the sidewalls include apertures through which a screw extends into the corner blocks. The apertures may be countersunk.

[0013] Preferably, the corner blocks are supported by vertical support members. Suitably, the vertical support members are elongate. Suitably, the vertical support members are hollow, for receiving wires therein.

[0014] Preferably, the corner blocks are cubic and include a flat end surface parallel to an end surface of the base 105, and a flat side surface parallel to a side surface of the base.

[0015] Preferably, support beams extend between adjacent corner blocks. The support beams may provide structural integrity to the module, and/or provide a surface from which lights and/or other accessories may be attached.

[0016] Preferably, the coupling elements are located on at least two sides of the module. Suitably, the coupling elements are located on at least four sides of the module.

[0017] Preferably, the coupling elements comprise apertures, for receiving dowels.

Suitably, the dowels are press-fit into corresponding apertures of adjacent modules.

[0018] Preferably, at least two apertures are located on each side of the module. [0019] Preferably, the apertures are symmetrically positioned along sides of the module.

[0020] Preferably, module includes a comer defined by first and second sides, wherein a first aperture is positioned on the first side a first distance from the comer and a second aperture is positioned on the second side the first distance from the comer. By positioning the apertures equal distances from the comer enables adjacent modules to be connected in an L-shape.

[0021] Preferably, the sidewalls include bevelled edges. This enables adjacent sidewalls to be positioned flush against each other.

[0022] Preferably, the sidewalls abut the base, and an outer surface of each sidewall is in a same plane as a side or end surfaces of the base.

[0023] Preferably, the module includes at least one light source. Suitably, the light source is a light emitting diode (LED).

[0024] Preferably, the light source includes an acrylic light diffuser suspended above the base. The light diffuser, or the light source (light), may be suspended above a central portion of the base.

[0025] Preferably, wiring to the light source is generally concealed by the base.

[0026] Optionally, batteries are provided in the base to power the light source.

Alternatively, electrical couplers are provided in the base such that adjacent modules may be coupled to a common power source.

[0027] Preferably, the module is about 360mm wide, 210mm deep and 208mm tall.

[0028] In another form, the present invention resides broadly in a display system including a plurality of modules of the first aspect.

[0029] Preferably, the plurality of modules includes first and second modules releasable coupled to each other at respective ends.

[0030] Preferably, the plurality of modules includes first and second modules releasable coupled to each other at respective sides.

[0031] Preferably, the plurality of modules includes first and second modules releasable coupled to each other at an end of the first module and a side of the second module. [0032] Preferably, the plurality of modules includes first and second modules releasable coupled to each other, with one module on top of another module.

[0033] Any of the features described herein can be combined in any combination with any one or more of the other features described herein within the scope of the invention.

[0034] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0035] Various embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the following drawings, in which:

[0036] Figure 1 illustrates a display module of a modular display system, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 2 illustrates an example configuration of a modular display system, including first and second display modules, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 3 illustrates an example configuration of a modular display system, including first and second display modules, according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 4 illustrates an example configuration of a modular display system, including first and second display modules, according to yet another embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 5 illustrates an example configuration of a modular display system, including a plurality of display modules, according to yet another embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 6 illustrates an example configuration of a modular display system, including a plurality of display modules, according to yet another embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 7 illustrates an example configuration of a modular display system, including a plurality of display modules, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 8 illustrates an exploded view of a modular display system, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 9 illustrates an assembled view of the display system of Figure 8; [0045] Figure 10 illustrates a perspective view of a dowel member of the system of Figure 1, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 11 illustrates a cross sectional view of a portion of a first module, and a portion of a second module, coupled by the dowel member of Figure 10;

[0047] Figure 12 illustrates an exploded view of the module of Figure 1, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 13 illustrates a module, according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0049] Figure 14 illustrates an example configuration of a modular display system, including a display module of Figure 1 and two display modules of Figure 13, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0050] Figure 15 illustrates a lower perspective view of a base, according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] Figure 16 illustrates the base of Figure 15, in an unfolded state, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0052] Figure 17 illustrates an exploded cross sectional view of two adjacent bases connected using a nut and bolt faster;

[0053] Figure 18 illustrates an electrical loom of the base of Figure 15, according to an embodiment of the present invention; and

[0054] Figure 19 illustrates a front perspective view of a pair of modules, and a panel support, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Preferred features, embodiments and variations of the invention may be discerned from the following Detailed Description which provides sufficient information for those skilled in the art to perform the invention. The Detailed Description is not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the preceding Summary of the Invention in any way.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0056] Figure 1 illustrates a display module 100 of a modular display system, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The display module 100 can be used together with other modules 100 to form a display for, for example, model cars.

[0057] The module 100 comprises a base 105, that is substantially rectangular, a plurality of vertical supports 110 extending upwardly from the base 105 and support beams 115, extending between ends of the supports 110. The base 105 is configured to receive the model car and the vertical supports 110 and support beams 115 form a frame around the model car.

[0058] The support beams 115 are coupled to the vertical supports by corner blocks 120. Each corner block 120 is cubic includes a flat end surface parallel to an end surface of the base 105, and a flat side surface parallel to a side surface of the base 105.

[0059] Clear panels 125 are coupled to the corner blocks 120 by screws 130 that extend through apertures of the panels 125 into the corner blocks 120. The module 100 includes five clear panels 125, two end panels (one at each end), two side panels (one on each side) and one top panel.

[0060] The corner blocks 120 and the clear panels 125 are arranged such that the side and end panels abut the base, and an outer surface of the side and end panels is in a same plane as side and end surfaces of the base 105. Similarly, the apertures of the panels 125 are countersunk such that the screws 130 sit flush against the panel 125. As such, several such modules 100 can be joined such that respective bases 105 and panels 125 of the modules abut, as discussed in further detail below.

[0061] The clear panels 125 are laser cut of 3mm thick acrylic and can be attached and detached (using the screws 130) according to a desired configuration. For example, a panel 125 may be removed to provide temporary or permanent access to a model car therein.

[0062] The clear panels 125 have bevelled edges, forming 45 degree mitre joints at corners of the module 100. This provides aesthetically pleasing joints with minimal interruption when viewing the model car inside the module 100.

[0063] The module 100 further includes an acrylic light diffuser 135 suspended between the support beams 115. The light diffuser 135 includes light emitting diodes (LED) integrated therewith, configured to illuminate the area defined by the module 100. The light diffuser 135 is rectangular in shape, with a rectangular cut-out therein. The light diffuser 135 is laser etched and includes micro dimples catch and direct light travelling though the diffuser 135 such that it is concentrated in a desired area, such as to the top, front, back and/or floor of the module 100, to provide an even, natural looking light over the model displayed in the module 100. [0064] Wiring to the LEDs is generally concealed by the base, and extends upwards through the vertical supports 110, which are hollow and along the support beams 115 to the light diffuser 135. This enables the module 100 to be powered, but without unsightly wiring influencing the aesthetics of the module 100.

[0065] According to certain embodiments, batteries are provided in the base 105 to power the light diffuser 135. As such, each module 100 may be functional without other modules 100, providing flexibility in how the modules are coupled to each other.

[0066] According to certain embodiments, electrical couplers are provided in the base such that adjacent modules 100 may be coupled to a common power source. As such, power may be provided to a plurality of models simultaneously, through each other. This enables common control of the light diffusers 135, e.g. common dimming, or even lighting effects (such as blinking or changes in colour) to be provided across all modules, for example by an electronic lighting controller.

[0067] The vertical supports 110 and the support beams 115 mimic real life structural elements in their form and appearance, and as such, form part of the display created by the model car, rather than surrounding the display. In particular, the vertical supports have a similar appearance to the vertical poles used in street lighting, and the support beams are similar to the metal tri-beam structures used in bridges and other structures.

[0068] The base 105 includes a plurality of apertures 140, for receiving dowels (not illustrated). In particular, the dowels facility connection of modules with each other laterally by engaging with respective apertures 140 of the modules 100.

[0069] The base 105 includes two apertures 140 on each end, and four apertures 140 on each side. The two apertures 140 on each end are spaced apart a same distance as respective pairs of apertures on each side. As such, the modules 100 may be joined such that an end of one module 100 abuts a side of another module 100.

[0070] Similarly, the apertures 140 on the ends of the base 105 are spaced from an edge of the base 105 an equal distance as other as pairs of apertures 140 on the sides of the base 105. This enables the end of the base 105 of one module to line up with a side of the base 105 of another module.

[0071] Furthermore, the apertures 140 are symmetrically placed along both the sides and ends of the base 105, enabling the side and ends of bases 105 to be connected in either direction. This is particularly useful in enabling complex configurations, such as those described below.

[0072] The module 100 is generally formed of metal, such as steel and aluminium. As an illustrative example, the corner blocks 120 are formed of milled-aluminium. The skilled addressee will, however, readily appreciate that other materials may be used, including other metals, plastics, and composite materials.

[0073] The module 100 is about 360mm wide, 210mm deep and 208mm tall, and is thus particularly suited to receive 1:18 model cars.

[0074] As a collectors collection grows, further modules 100 may be purchased and configured (or reconfigured), enabling the system to grow, as outlined below.

[0075] Figure 2 illustrates an example configuration 200 of a modular display system, including first and second display modules 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The display modules 100 are joined at respective ends, providing an elongate display structure.

[0076] As discussed above, dowels extend into apertures 140 of both ends, joining the ends to each other. The dowels are press fit into the apertures 140, and as such are inserted and removed in a press-fit like manner.

[0077] The panels 125 may be present between the modules 100 (i.e. on the ends of the modules 100 that abut) forming a bulkhead. Alternatively, the panels may be removed between the modules to form a larger open space. This is particularly advantageous when larger models (e.g. an aircraft display) are displayed together with smaller models.

[0078] Figure 3 illustrates an example configuration 300 of a modular display system, including first and second display modules 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The display modules 100 are joined vertically.

[0079] In particular, a base 105 of an upper display module 100 is coupled to the corner blocks 130 of a lower display module. The vertical support 110 has a threaded base which extends downwardly and is screwed into the respective corner block 120. The vertical support 110 further has a thread and nut, which enables the vertical support to be attached to the corners of the base 105 by bolting onto an underside of the base 105.

[0080] Figure 4 illustrates an example configuration 400 of a modular display system, including first and second display modules 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The display modules 100 are joined to form an L-shape.

[0081] As discussed above, the apertures 140 on the end of the base 105 of a first module 100 are spaced from an edge of the base 105 an equal distance as other as pairs of apertures 140 on the sides of the base 105 of a second module 100. This enables the side of the first module to line up with the end of the second module, making the side and end appear to be a single continuous surface.

[0082] Figure 5 illustrates an example configuration 500 of a modular display system, including a plurality of display modules 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The display modules 100 are joined to form a complex structure mimicking roads and parking garages.

[0083] In particular, the several L-shaped structures are coupled to each other to form squares 505, which are then stacked upon each other to form building-like structures 510 that resemble parking garages. The building-like structures 510 are then joined by a road like structure 515.

[0084] The skilled addressee will readily appreciate that the display modules may form any suitable configuration, including bridges suspended above the ground (i.e. modules supported from their sides rather than from below).

[0085] Figure 6 illustrates an example configuration 600 of a modular display system, including a plurality of display modules 605, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0086] The display modules 605 are similar to the modules 100 of Figure 1, but without vertical supports 110 or support beams 115. In particular, the clear panels 125 are coupled to each other by the corner blocks 120. As such, the clear panels 125 provide structure to the modules 605, rather than a metal frame as is the case for the modules 100.

[0087] In such case, the clear panels 125 may engage directly with the base 105, and may be screwed to the base 105, clip into the base, or engage with the base in any suitable way.

[0088] Figure 7 illustrates an example configuration 700 of a modular display system, including a plurality of display modules 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0089] The display modules 100 are coupled to each other side by side, and a diagonal roof element 705 extends across both modules 100. The diagonal roof element 705 provides an industrial appearance to the configuration 700, similar to a warehouse or workshop.

[0090] Two of the clear panels 125 have been replaced by tinted panels 705. The tinted panels provide the appearance of a solid wall, such as a cement wall, or a background on which the model car may be viewed. The skilled addressee will readily appreciate that the tinted panels 705 may take any suitable colour or pattern. As an illustrative example, a tinted panel 705 may have the appearance of a brick wall.

[0091] Figure 8 illustrates an exploded view of a modular display system 800, according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9 illustrates an assembled view of the display system 800.

[0092] The modular display system 800 is similar to the display module 100 of Figure 1, and includes bases 105, vertical supports 110 and a support beam 115 coupled to the supports 110 by corner blocks 120. The display system 800 further includes a panel 125.

[0093] The display system 800 includes first and second side panels 805, and a curved cover panel 810. The side panels 805 are coupled to respective sides of the display system 800 by the corner blocks 120, in a similar manner to the panel 125. The curved cover panel 810, however, extends from an edge of one of the bases 105, up to a top of the panel 125 of an adjacent base. As such, the curved cover panel is similar to a side panel 125 and a top panel 125 of the module 100, but joined in a single piece by a curved portion.

[0094] The display system 800 further includes a plurality of light elements 815, which mimic street lights. The light elements include LEDs, and as such, the light elements also function in a similar manner to street lights.

[0095] Figure 10 illustrates a perspective view of a dowel member 1000, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The dowel member 1000 is used to couple adjacent display modules 100 with each other using the apertures 140.

[0096] The dowel member 1000 includes first and second annular channels 1005 adjacent respective ends of the dowel member 1000. The annular channels 1005 are configured to receive an end of a grub screw, which prevents the dowel member 1000 from being removed from the display modules 100, as illustrated below.

[0097] gure 11 illustrates a cross sectional view of a portion of a first module 100a, and portion of a second module 100b, coupled by a dowel member 1000. In particular, the dowel member 1000 extends into apertures 140 of the respective module 100a, 100b, and grub screws 1005 extend through apertures of the base 105 and into the channels 1005. The grub screws 1105, by engaging with the channels 1005, prevent removal of the dowel member 1000 from each of the modules 100, thus preventing separation of the modules 100.

[0098] Figure 12 illustrates an exploded view of a module 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, the components of the module 100 are releasably coupled to each other to provide a system that can be rebuilt and reconfigured many times over. As such, the module is advantageously assembled using screws and not using glue.

[0099] The base 105 comprises an outer base element 105a which extends around an inner base element 105b which. The outer base 105a element comprises L shaped aluminium pieces formed into a rectangular body, such as steel or the like, and the inner base 105b is formed of clear acrylic. The skilled addressee will readily appreciate that any suitable materials may be used for the inner and out base elements 105a, 105b, including other types of metals, plastics and the like.

[00100] Figure 13 illustrates a module 1300, according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. The module 1300 is similar to the module 100 of Figure 1, but with an open base. The module 1300 is thus particularly suited to configurations in which multiple modules are stacked to form a high space.

[00101] The module 1300 includes a rectangular base 1305, similar to the base 105. The base 1305 includes a rectangular aperture 1310, which is slightly smaller than the rectangular base 1305, and as a result, the rectangular base 1305 is substantially hollow and resembles a frame.

[00102] Figure 14 illustrates an example configuration 1400 of a modular display system, including a display module 100 and two display modules 1300, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[00103] The example configuration 1400 comprises an elongate structure that extends upwardly to form a large vertical space. In particular, the two display modules 1300 are positioned above the display module 100, such that the space defined by the display module 100 extends up through the based 1305 (and in particular the apertures 1310 thereof) to form a unitary space across the modules 100, 1300.

[00104] The example configuration 1400 also includes an internal stacker 1405, which is similar in appearance to a car hoist or car storage facility. The internal stacker 1405 is supported by the base 105 of the module 100 and extends upwardly into the two display modules 1300.

[00105] The internal stacker 1405 may be used to stack model cars more compactly, i.e. to provide display efficiency, while provide a realistic diorama based display. In particular, 5 model vehicles may be displayed in the configuration 1400, while each of the three modules 100, 1300 can individually only store one model car.

[00106] Figure 15 illustrates a lower perspective view of a base 1500, according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. Figure 16 illustrates the base 1500, in an unfolded state. The base 1500 is similar to the base 105, but is formed of a single sheet, as outlined below.

[00107] The base 1500 comprises a sheet of aluminium composite material comprising two 0.3 mm thick aluminium surface layers with a polyethylene core there between. The sheet is cut to size, and then folded and glued to form the base.

[00108] In particular, side and end panel edge portions 1505, 1510 are folded downwards from a central portion of the base 1500. Side and end panel base portions 1515, 1520 are then folded inwards from the side and end panel edge portions 1505, 1510 respectively such that they are parallel with a central portion of the base 1500, to form the assembled base.

[00109] Glue, other adhesive, and/or fasteners may be used to prevent the side and end panel edge portions 1505, 1510 and the side and end panel base portions 1515, 1520 from unfolding when in use.

[00110] The base 1500 may include a protective film. The film may be coloured, e.g. as gloss black, another colour, or to provide the appearance of a particular metal, such as steel, copper, or gold. In certain embodiments, the film may include a mirror finish, to enable reflection underneath the model, for example.

[00111] The base 1500 is light-weight and rigid. Furthermore, as the base 1500 is formed from a single sheet of aluminium composite material, it is generally simple to manufacture.

[00112] The base 1500 includes apertures 1525, much like the apertures 140 of the base 105, but grouped in groups 1530 of three apertures. The groups 1530 are configured such that a central aperture 1525a comprises a power aperture, for linking power looms of adjacent bases 1500, and the outer apertures 1525b comprise joiner apertures, for physically joining adjacent bases using connectors, such as nuts and bolts. This enables adjacent bases to be coupled electrically and physically in a simple and flexible manner.

[00113] Figure 17 illustrates an exploded cross sectional view of two adjacent bases connected using a nut and bolt faster. In particular, adjacent bases 1500 are aligned such that groups of apertures align, enabling a bolt 1705 to extend through adjacent apertures, fasten the bases together using a nut 1710. Similarly, electrical connectors (not shown) may electrically couple adjacent bases through the corresponding central aperture 1525a.

[00114] Figure 18 illustrates an electrical loom 1800 of a base 1500, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The electrical loom 1800 enables electrical connectivity between adjacent bases 1500, and to components within a module (e.g. lights).

[00115] The loom 1800 includes a hub 1805, from which a plurality of wires 1810 extend. The wires 1810 are coupled to electrical connectors 1815a, 1815b, that are either configured to connect to adjacent looms 1800 (thus enabling electrical connectivity between looms and thus modules), as illustrated with connector 1815a, or to vertical supports 110, to provide power to lights therefrom, or to another module above or below, as illustrated with connector 1815b.

[00116] The connectors 1815a are positioned adjacent to the central apertures 1525a to enable simple and flexible connection with adjacent modules. The connectors 1815a may connect to other connectors from adjacent modules by any suitable means, including by way of magnetic engagement.

[00117] Figure 18 illustrates an example configuration where a central base 1500 is coupled to adjacent bases 1500a, 1500b, 1500c, both lengthwise (1500 and 1500b), and to form corners (1500 and 1500a, 1500c).

[00118] According to certain embodiments, at least some of the wires 1810 and electrical connectors 1815a are repositionable. As such, a loom 1800 may include a limited number of connectors that are reconfigurable depending on installation configuration. This reduces the total amount of wiring, but retains flexibility in how the modules may be connected to each other.

[00119] The skilled addressee will readily appreciate that by coupling many looms 1800 together, joint control of lighting may be achieved. For example, a number of lights may be turned on or off or dimmed simultaneously. Furthermore, a group of modules may be coupled to a remote control lighting system, for adjustment of the lighting as a whole, such as

brightness/dimness, warm/cool light and featured strobe timing. [00120] Figure 19 illustrates a front perspective view of a pair of modules 1900, and a panel support 1905, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The adjacent modules 1900 may be connected using nut and bolt, and include electrical connectivity, as outlined above.

[00121] The support 1905 further attaches the adjacent modules using the apertures 1525b. This provides additional support to and between the modules 1900. The support 1905 also extends over a top of the base 1500 by about 3mm to form a lip 1910. This lip 1910 prevents the panels 125 from moving, and holds then flush to the side of the base.

[00122] According to certain embodiments, not illustrated, modules may be provided with adjustable legs (supports) that extend downwardly from the base 1500. The adjustable legs may be used to raise the module from the surface on which it is supported, to provide an aesthetically pleasing look. The adjustable legs may also be used to support several modules over an uneven surface. This enables the modules to be positioned partly on various structures, such as bookshelves, desks and the like, without requiring the structures to form a single plane.

[00123] As will be understood by the skilled addressee, the various modules and components described above may be provided in various dimensions. Typically, each element may be provided in different sizes which are multiples of a base figure to enable maximum flexibility in interconnection. For example, half length and double length modules may be provided.

[00124] The skilled addressee will readily appreciate that other types of accessories may be included in the above described systems and modules, including gantry walks and window designs. The accessories and general design may be classic, contemporary and/or futuristic, and may incorporate corporate themes and accessories. This is particularly useful if modules of the present invention are provided for marketing purposes.

[00125] According to certain embodiments, the systems and modules described above may contain realistic surfaces and accessories that allow the customer to build a series of miniaturised environments for display. As an illustrative example, the base 105 of Figure 1 may have the appearance of asphalt, grass, tiles, cobbles, concrete, carpet or any other suitable material.

Similarly, the panels 125 may have the appearance of cement, brick or any other suitable material and need not all be clear. In particular, photographs may be incorporated into the base 105 and/or panels 125 to provide any suitable background image.

[00126] As an illustrative example, the systems and modules may be used to resemble an old warehouse, a racing pit stop, a parking garage, a racetrack, or any other suitable environment. [00127] Embodiments of the present invention provide an elegantly simple and expandable means to create different miniature architectural environments (dioramas) that match the realism of the replica cars they are displaying 'in concert' . Embodiments of the present invention allow for the creation of structures that give an architectural 'feel' enabling the owner creative expression in a system that allows growth and continual customisation.

[00128] According to certain embodiments, the base 105 includes an acrylic floor panel, which allows for upward facing in-fioor lights, to illuminate the model from below. The floor panel may be configured to include etching or dimples to direct the light towards a desired area, such as a central portion of the module. Furthermore, the same lights may double as a light source for ceiling lights for a module below.

[00129] According to certain embodiments, narrow modules may be provided for the purpose of providing a background to a foreground module. For example, a full size module may be provided for displaying a model car, the module having a panel simulating a wall with windows. The narrow base may be provided adjacent to the full size model, to provide a realistic background as seen through the windows of the full size module.

[00130] While the above embodiments have been described with reference to model cars, the skilled addressee will readily appreciate that other types of models may be displayed, including model aircraft and the like.

[00131] In the present specification and claims (if any), the word 'comprising' and its derivatives including 'comprises' and 'comprise' include each of the stated integers but does not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers.

[00132] Reference throughout this specification to 'one embodiment' or 'an embodiment' means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearance of the phrases 'in one embodiment' or 'in an embodiment' in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.

Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations.

[00133] In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims (if any) appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A display module for a modular display system, the module for displaying a model and including: a base, for supporting the model; and one or more sidewalls, extending upwardly from the base to at least partially surround the model; wherein the base includes a plurality of coupling elements, for coupling the module to an adjacent module.

2. The display module of claim 1, wherein the display module is configured to display a model car.

3. The display module of claim 1, further including corner blocks, with which upper corners of the sidewalls releasably attach.

4. The display module of claim 3, wherein the sidewalls include apertures through which a screw extends into the corner blocks.

5. The display module of claim 3, wherein the corner blocks are supported by elongate vertical support members.

6. The display module of claim 5, the vertical support members are hollow, for receiving electrical wires therein.

7. The display module of claim 3, wherein the corner blocks are cubic and include a flat end surface parallel to an end surface of the base, and a flat side surface parallel to a side surface of the base.

8. The display module of claim 3, wherein support beams extend between adjacent corner blocks.

9. The display module of claim 8, wherein the support beams includes a light supported thereby.

10. The display module of claim 9, wherein the light comprises an acrylic light diffuser suspended above the base.

11. The display module of claim 9, wherein wiring to the light is generally concealed by the base.

12. The display module of claim 11, wherein electrical couplers are provided in the base such that adjacent modules may be coupled to a common power source.

13. The display module of claim 1, wherein the coupling elements are located on at least two sides of the module.

14. The display module of claim 13, wherein the coupling elements comprise apertures, for receiving fasteners.

15. The display module of claim 14, wherein at least two of the apertures are located on each side of the module, the apertures symmetrically positioned along sides of the module.

16. The display module of claim 13, wherein the module includes a corner defined by first and second sides, wherein a first aperture of the apertures is positioned on the first side a first distance from the corner and a second aperture is positioned on the second side the first distance from the corner.

17. The display module of claim 1, wherein the sidewalls abut the base, and an outer surface of each sidewall is in a same plane as a side or end surfaces of the base.

18. The display module of claim 1, wherein the one or more sidewalls are at least partly transparent.

19. The display module of claim 18, wherein the one or more sidewalls are integrally formed of a transparent material.

19. The display module of claim 1, wherein the base is formed of a sheet that is folded to form the base.

20. A display system including a plurality of modules according to claim 1.

21. The display system of claim 20, wherein the plurality of modules includes first and second modules releasable coupled to each other at respective ends.

22. The display system of claim 20, wherein the plurality of modules includes first and second modules releasable coupled to each other at respective sides.

23. The display system of claim 20, wherein the plurality of modules includes first and second modules releasable coupled to each other at an end of the first module and a side of the second module.

24. The display system of claim 20, wherein the plurality of modules includes first and second modules releasable coupled to each other, with one module on top of another module.