Patent ID: 6138741
Filing Date: 2000-10-31
Classification: B44D,Y10T

Abstract:
A tensioning picture frame, comprising:a number of abutting frame members, each having mitered ends, each of said ends having a single insert receiving half slot therein opened at said end, opposed half slots in abutting frame members forming a complete insert receiving slot, each of said ends having an outwardly facing tapered channel having a semicircular cross-section, said channel extending from a top surface of said frame member at the end thereof downward towards the area occupied by said slot opening;a tapered screw adapted to be rotated into the tapered channel formed by abutting frame members to spread said frame members apart, said screw only engaging said frame at said tapered channel; and,a single apertured flat insert inserted into the slot formed by adjacent frame members such that a mild interference fit exists therebetween, whereby the width of said slot vis a vis the thickness of said insert gives significant dimensional stability to the joint formed between adjacent frame members, whereby the use of a single flat insert prevents warping, twisting or other unwanted frame member misalignments when said screw is rotated into said tapered channel to provide for said tensioning.