Modular signpost system

An improved system for simply assembling, installing, and customizing a signpost. In one exemplary embodiment, the assembled signpost may define a semi-modular post-with-arm structure configured to receive one or more signs via one or more attachment components. The attachment component(s) may be adjustably attached/positioned at any length along the extended arm component. Moreover, the extended arm component, and any signs engaged thereto, may be supported by the post component. Moreover, the post component, the extended arm component, and any signs engaged thereto, may be rigidly yet detachably engaged to a supporting substrate via an anchoring component. The anchoring component may be specifically designed to engage discreetly with the supporting substrate under cover of the post component. Moreover, the assembled signpost may comprise a decorative add-on sub-system intended to make the over-all system more aesthetically pleasing to the intended audience.

DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART

Traditional signposts, like those assembled and installed for ubiquitous real estate “FOR SALE” signs, are used for multiple and simultaneous operations. As in many designs, in order to maximize the functionality of one operation there is often a concomitant reduction in the functionality of another operation.

For example, in order to securely hold a sufficiently large/visible sign, it is preferable to have an assembled signpost that is sufficiently sized and sufficiently tall. Moreover, it is preferable that the signpost be strongly engaged with the supporting substrate. However, in order to effectively and efficiently assemble and install a signpost, it is preferable to have an assembled signpost that is comprising lightweight and easy-to-manipulate component pieces, and that is configured for detachable engagement from the supporting substrate.

Furthermore, in order to augment the advertising function of any attached sign, it is preferable to have an assembled signpost that is aesthetically pleasing to the intended audience. This is, for example, accomplished via an assembled signpost that is comprising classic/modern ornamental features and designs, and that is manufactured from traditional materials like carved wood or smithed metal. However, in order to have an assembled signpost that is affordable and useful under various circumstances, it is preferable to have an assembled signpost that is comprising simply shaped component pieces, and that is manufactured from affordable composite and/or synthetic materials.

Furthermore, and related to the above, in order to maximize the aesthetically pleasing qualities of the signpost while holding a sign, it is preferable to have an assembled signpost that appears custom-built and intended for that specific sign. This is, for example, accomplished via an assembled signpost that is specifically sized to match the dimensions of that sign such that the specific sign is not off-center, crooked, or awkwardly positioned. However, in order to have an assembled signpost that is useful under various circumstances, it is preferable to have an assembled signpost that is easily customizable for various types, configurations and combinations of signs.

There is, therefore, a need in the art for a signpost system that can balance competing functions. Accordingly, there is now provided within this disclosure an improved system for simply assembling, installing, and customizing a signpost, which effectively overcomes the aforementioned difficulties and longstanding problems inherent in the art.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

Briefly, the present disclosure is related to an improved system for simply assembling, installing, and customizing a signpost. In one exemplary embodiment of the system, the signpost system comprises a sign attachment component, an extended arm component, a post component, and an engagement key.

More specifically, in this exemplary embodiment, the extended arm component defines a surface feature configured to receive the sign attachment component such that the relative position of the sign attachment component is adjustable along a length of the extended arm component. In this way, the position of any signage held by the signpost is adjustable relative to the extended arm component.

Furthermore, in this exemplary embodiment, the post component defines a hollow interior and is configured to receive a traversing portion of the extended arm component into the hollow interior. Because the traversing portion of the extended arm component defines an engagement slot, the engagement slot is positioned within the hollow interior of the post component. In this way, any engagement of the extended arm component and the post component may be accomplished from within the hollow interior.

Furthermore, in this exemplary embodiment, the engagement key comprises an engagement end and a retention end. The engagement end is configured to cooperate with the engagement slot within the hollow interior. In this way, the engagement key cooperating with the engagement slot may detachably engage the extended arm component with the post component.

Furthermore, in this exemplary embodiment, when the post component receives the traversing portion of the extended arm component, and when the engagement end cooperates with the engagement slot within the hollow interior, the post component supports the extended arm component. Moreover, the retention end prevents the traversing portion of the extended arm component from displacing relative to the post component, despite relatively heavy loads.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure is related to a system for simply assembling, installing, and customizing a signpost. In one exemplary embodiment of the system, one important aspect is the structural design of the assembled signpost. The structural design is simple, elegant, and stable, resulting from affordable, simple-to-manufacture, and user-friendly components/sub-systems that form a sturdy, stable, and scalable post-with-arm structure.

More specifically, each individual component/sub-system may have a structural design that serves a specific function, resulting in simplified manufacturing and simplified end-user use. Moreover, each individual component/sub-system may have minimal material costs, resulting in more simplified manufacturing. Moreover, each individual component/sub-system may have optimized dimensions, density and volume, resulting in more simplified manufacturing, and more simplified end-user use, and simplified shipping/storage. Moreover, each individual component/sub-system may allow for various ways-of-assembly with the other component(s)/subsystem(s), resulting in simplified and customized end-user use.

In another exemplary embodiment of the system, the assembled signpost may define a semi-modular post-with-arm structure. The extended arm component may be configured to receive one or more signs via one or more attachment components. The attachment component(s) may be adjustably attached/positioned at any length along the extended arm component such that any attached sign is not off-center, crooked, or awkwardly positioned off of the extended arm component. Moreover, the extended arm may be a modular sub-system comprising equally sized sub-attachment components. Additional sub-attachment components may be engaged to the extended arm component to increase or reduce its length.

Furthermore, the extended arm component, and any signs engaged thereto, may be supported by the post component. The post component may be configured to adjust the height of the extended arm component for the assembled signpost. The post component may be a modular sub-system comprising equally sized sub-post components. Additional sub-post components may be engaged to the post component to increase or reduce its length and, therefore, increase the height of the extended arm component. The post component may also be a mechanical subsystem configured to increase the height of the extended arm component without need for additional attachments.

Furthermore, the post component with the extended arm component may be configured to adjust the extension length of the arm off of the post, and/or adjust the shape of the overall post-with-arm structure. The junction between the extended arm component and the post component may have an adjustable angle. The junction between the extended arm component and the post component may also be adjustable such that the overall shape of the assembled signpost may vary along the spectrum defined by the-shape through the-shape through the-shape.

Furthermore, the post component, the extended arm component, and any signs engaged thereto, may be rigidly yet detachably engaged to a supporting substrate via an anchoring component. The anchoring component may be a simple-to-install, no-tools-required barb configured for insertion into the supporting substrate. A user may readily (using their own body weight, for example) engage the anchoring component with the supporting substrate. Moreover, so as to not complicate the design, manufacturing, or utility of the anchoring component, the anchoring component may be specifically designed to engage discreetly with the supporting substrate under cover of the post component. In this way, the post component and the majority of any other visible component may be manufactured from affordable composite and/or synthetic materials that may not be able to rigidly engage with the supporting substrate.

In another exemplary embodiment of the system, the assembled signpost may comprise a decorative add-on sub-system intended to make the over-all system more aesthetically pleasing to the intended audience. The decorative add-on sub-system may be shaped into classic/modern ornamental features and designs configured for attachment to the assembled sign post at any component.

Referring now to the drawings, wherein the showings are for purposes of illustrating certain exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure only, and not for purposes of limiting the same,FIG. 1is a perspective right side view of one exemplary embodiment of an assembled signpost of the present disclosure holding one exemplary embodiment of signage. More specifically, signpost100is an assembled, modular post-with-arm structure holding signage10comprising one exemplary embodiment of a hanging panel sign2and a rider panel sign6. The signage10may be any type of sign or grouping of signs (e.g., panel signs, neon signs, box lettering; hanging and riding) that would benefit from the support and positioning provided by an embodiment of an assembled signpost according to the present disclosure.

Consequently, the signpost100and/or any of its components/sub-systems may be scaled to various sizes and customized in shape/color/aesthetic appearance, based on the type of signage10, the intended audience, and/or the intended goal for presenting the signage10in the first place. For example, the signpost100may be a real estate “FOR SALE” sign (sufficiently wide and tall to hold an appropriate sign that is visible from both sides of a nearby road, and sufficiently bright colored to facilitate catching the attention of the intended audience, for example), or the signpost100may be an understated business sign (sufficiently wide and tall to hold an appropriate sign that is visible to those specifically looking for the business, and sufficiently matching of any surrounding aesthetics to complement the architectural and design features inherently around it, for example). One of ordinary skill in the art understands that regardless of the specific type of signage, the present disclosure provides various inventive aspects and elements that are applicable to various disparate circumstances.

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1, signpost100comprises one exemplary embodiment of an extended arm component101, a semi-modular post sub-system120, a sign attachment sub-system140, an anchoring component160, and a decorative add-on sub-system180. One of ordinary skill in the art understands that the signpost100may comprise various other external or internal components/sub-systems that may include, but are not limited to, lights, wiring, extensions, etc.

More specifically, the extended arm component101is one exemplary embodiment of a horizontal panel arm. When assembled with the semi-modular post sub-system120(described in greater detail herein), the horizontal panel arm101extends laterally relative to the post sub-system120to define an angle of between about 85.00 degree and about 95.00 degrees, and preferably about 90.00 degrees. The extended arm component101is held in place and supported by the semi-modular post sub-system120(described in greater detail herein) such that the extended arm component101bears and translates its own weight and the weight of any signage10. Moreover, the extended arm component101is held in place and supported by the semi-modular post sub-system120such that the assembled signpost100defines/retains an-shape despite any heavy loads or external forces.

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1, the extended arm component101is an elongate extrusion-molded component defining a hollow interior115(best seen inFIG. 2). The extended arm component101is generally defined by a relatively thin, squared cross-section110comprising T-shaped channels103(best seen inFIG. 2; described in greater detail herein). The extended arm component101may be generally defined by various differently shaped cross-sections (e.g., square, rectangular, triangular, circular; depending on the specific embodiment).

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1, the extended arm101may be manufactured from affordable and light, yet resilient, composite and/or synthetic materials. In such an embodiment, the extended arm component101demands minimal material costs, relative weight, or relative volume. Moreover, despite its thin, elongate structure and the support provided by the semi-modular post sub-system120, the extended arm component101may be configured to resist bending/buckling, due to its weight or the weight of any signage10, along its length. Moreover, it is envisioned that the extended arm component101is a lightweight and easy-to-manipulate component piece that is easily assembled and installed by an end user.

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1, the semi-modular post sub-system120is a multi-piece system configured for assembly into an exemplary embodiment of an extendable vertical post. When assembled with the extended arm component101and the anchoring component160(described in greater detail herein), the semi-modular post sub-system120holds in place and supports the extended arm component101at a certain height, depending on its extendable height (described in greater detail herein). Moreover, the semi-modular post sub-system120receives/bears its own weight and any weight translated from the extended arm component101.

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1, the semi-modular post sub-system120is held in place and supported by the anchoring component160such that the assembled signpost100remains upright. Moreover, the semi-modular post sub-system120engages with the anchoring component160such that the semi-modular post sub-system120hides the anchoring component160as it engages with the supporting substrate.

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1, three-individual pieces make up the semi-modular post sub-system120(described in there greater detail herein), although not all embodiments require three individual pieces. More specifically, the exemplary semi-modular post sub-system120comprises an exemplary embodiment of an arm-to-post primary sub-component121, a single extension sub-component135a, and an engagement sub-component127(best seen inFIG. 2). One of ordinary skill in the art understands that the semi-modular post sub-system120may comprise various other external or internal components/sub-systems.

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1, additional extension sub-components (not shown) may be serially appended off of the arm-to-post primary sub-component121via corresponding engagement sub-components (not shown). As such, the assembled semi-modular post sub-system120may be configured to adjust the height of the arm-to-post primary sub-component121in the assembled signpost100and, therefore, the assembled semi-modular post sub-system120may be configured to adjust the height of the extended arm component101.

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1, the arm-to-post primary sub-component121, the single extension sub-component135a, and the engagement sub-component127are elongate extrusion-molded piece defining a hollow interior123and a squared shape similar to the extended arm component101(best seen inFIG. 2; described in greater detail herein). The extension sub-component(s)135and the engagement sub-component(s)127are each, respectively, modular as a grouping. The extension sub-components135and the arm-to-post primary sub-component121, as a grouping, may also be modular (i.e., they may be identically shaped and configured). Moreover, the arm-to-post primary sub-component121, the single extension sub-component135a, and the engagement sub-component127are each, respectively, a lightweight and easy-to-manipulate sub-component.

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1, each individual piece of the semi-modular post sub-system120may be manufactured from affordable and light, yet resilient, composite and/or synthetic materials. Therefore, the semi-modular post sub-system120demands minimal material costs, relative weight, or relative volume. Moreover, despite its thin, elongate structure and the support provided by the anchoring component160, the semi-modular post sub-system120may be configured to resist bending/buckling, due to its support of the extended arm component101or the weight of any signage10.

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1, the sign attachment sub-system140is a multi-piece system configured for engagement with the extended arm component101. When assembled with the extended arm component101, the sign attachment sub-system140holds in place and supports the signage10off of the extended arm component101. Moreover, the sign attachment sub-system140is configured for adjustable positioning along the length of the extended arm component101(described in greater detail herein).

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1, two types of sign attachment sub-components make up the sign attachment sub-system140. More specifically, the sign attachment sub-system140comprises one exemplary embodiment of rider clips140aand panel clips140b(described in greater detail herein). The types of sign attachment sub-components may, however, be any type known to one having ordinary skill in the art and configured to mechanically engage with a channel103. Moreover, the rider clips140aand the panel clips140bare held in place and supported along the T-shaped channels103aand103b, respectively, (described in greater detail herein) such that any signage10is hung off of, and/or rode on, the extended arm component101. Additional sign attachment sub-components140nmay be engaged to the extended arm component101or the semi-modular post sub-system120.

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1, the rider clips140aand the panel clips140bare molded pieces. The rider clips140aand the panel clips140bare each, respectively, modular as a grouping. The rider clips140aand the panel clips140bare each, respectively, a lightweight and easy-to-manipulate sub-component configured to complement the T-shaped channels103aand/or103b. Moreover, the rider clips140aand the panel clips140bare configured to easily slide along the T-shaped channels103aand/or103b. Notably, although the exemplary embodiment featured in the present disclosure comprises T-shaped channels103, the scope of the invention is not limited to include T-shaped channels as it is envisioned that channels of different profiles would occur to those of ordinary skill in the art reading the present disclosure. For example, the rider clips140aand the panel clips140bmay be configured to engaged with the signpost100via any means or method known to one of ordinary skill in the art (e.g., male-female engagement, friction-fit engagement).

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1, each individual piece of the sign attachment sub-system140may be manufactured from affordable and light, yet resilient, composite and/or synthetic materials. Therefore, the sign attachment sub-system140demands minimal material costs, relative weight, or relative volume.

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1, the anchoring component160is an exemplary embodiment of a ground stake (described in greater detail herein). When assembled with the semi-modular post sub-system120, the anchoring component160holds in place, supports, and maintains the vertical orientation of the semi-modular post sub-system120. Moreover, the anchoring component160receives/bears its own weight and any weight translated from the semi-modular post sub-system120.

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1, the anchoring component160detachably engages to/penetrates a supporting substrate such that the assembled signpost100remains upright. Moreover, the anchoring component160is received by the hollow interior123cof the extension sub-component135asuch that the semi-modular post sub-system120hides the anchoring component160as it engages with/penetrates the supporting substrate.

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1, the anchoring component160may be manufactured from affordable and light, yet resilient, composite and/or synthetic materials. Therefore, the anchoring component160demands minimal material costs, relative weight, or relative volume. Moreover, the anchoring component160is a lightweight and easy-to-manipulate component piece that is inserted into the support substrate by the user's own body weight, for example.

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1, the decorative add-on sub-system180is a multi-piece system configured for engagement with the extended arm component101and/or the semi-modular post sub-system120(described in greater detail herein). When assembled with the extended arm component101and/or the semi-modular post sub-system120, the decorative add-on sub-system180makes the assembled signpost100look like a classic carved wooden signpost and, therefore, more aesthetically pleasing to a certain intended audience. It is envisioned that the sub-components of the decorative add-on sub-system180may be shaped into any other classic/modern ornamental feature or design known to one of ordinary skill in the art.

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1, two types of decorative add-on sub-components make up the decorative add-on sub-system180. More specifically, the decorative add-on sub-system180comprises one exemplary embodiment of pointed, extended arm caps180aand a post finial cap180b(described in greater detail herein). One of ordinary skill in the art understands that the decorative add-on sub-system180may comprise various other external or internal components/sub-systems.

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1, the pointed, extended arm caps180aand the post finial cap180bappend the end(s) of the extended arm component101and the semi-modular post sub-system120, respectively, such that the hollow interiors115and123are covered. Moreover, the pointed, extended arm caps180aand the post finial cap180bappend the end(s) of the extended arm component101and the semi-modular post sub-system120, respectively, such that these components appear to be complex wood-worked carvings, for example.

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1, the pointed, extended arm caps180aand the post finial cap180bare molded pieces. The pointed, extended arm caps180aand the post finial cap180bare each, respectively, a lightweight and easy-to-manipulate sub-component configured to complement the end(s) of the extended arm component101and the semi-modular post sub-system120, respectively. Moreover, the pointed, extended arm caps180aand the post finial cap180bare configured to easily, detachably engage to the ends via a friction-fit. The pointed, extended arm caps180aand the post finial cap180bmay be configured to engaged with the signpost100via any means or method known to a person of ordinary skill in the art (e.g., male-female engagement, adhesives).

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1, each individual piece of the decorative add-on sub-system180may be manufactured from affordable and light, yet resilient, composite and/or synthetic materials. Therefore, the decorative add-on sub-system180demands minimal material costs, relative weight, or relative volume.

Referring now toFIG. 2,FIG. 2is an exploded perspective right side view of the assembled signpost ofFIG. 1. The exemplary embodiment illustrated inFIG. 2is similar to the exemplary embodiment illustrated inFIG. 1and, therefore, only the differences between these two exemplary embodiments are described.

As previously stated, the extended arm component, when assembled with the semi-modular post sub-system120, extends laterally off of the semi-modular post sub-system120to form an-shape. More specifically, the extended arm component101traverses the arm-to-post primary sub-component121via an opening125.

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIGS. 1 and 2, the opening125complements the cross-section110of the extended arm component101such that a user can slidably insert the extended arm component101through the arm-to-post primary sub-component121and across the hollow interior123a. The opening125may be configured as any shape or size known to one of ordinary skill in the art (e.g., square, rectangular, triangular, circular; depending on the specific embodiment). Moreover, depending on how far a user inserts the extended arm component101through the arm-to-post primary sub-component121, the overall shape of the assembled signpost100may vary along the spectrum defined by the-shape through the-shape through the-shape.

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIGS. 1 and 2, the extended arm component, when assembled with the semi-modular post sub-system120, remains in a fixed position despite heavy loads. More specifically, an engagement key105, when received by an engagement slot107(best seen inFIG. 4; described in greater detail herein), fixes the position of the extended arm component101relative to the semi-modular post sub-system120.

Furthermore, as previously stated, the semi-modular post sub-system120holds in place and supports the extended arm component101at a certain height. The arm-to-post primary sub-component121is detachably engaged to the extension sub-component135avia the engagement sub-component127a. More specifically, one end of the engagement sub-component127ais slipped inside of the hollow interior123aof the arm-to-post primary sub-component121, and the other end is slipped inside of the hollow interior123cof the extension sub-component135a. This establishes a friction-fit attachment between the sub-components. In this way, the semi-modular post sub-system120has an extendable length and, therefore, is configured to adjust the height of the extended arm component101.

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIGS. 1 and 2, the arm-to-post primary sub-component121and the extension sub-component135aare elongate extrusion-molded components defining the hollow interior123aand the hollow interior123c, respectively. Each sub-component is defined by a relatively thin, squared cross-section130aand130b, respectively. The arm-to-post primary sub-component121and the extension sub-component135amay be defined by various differently shaped cross-sections (e.g., square, rectangular, triangular, circular; depending on the specific embodiment).

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIGS. 1 and 2, the engagement sub-component127ais an elongate extrusion-molded component defining the hollow interior123b. The engagement sub-component127ais defined by a relatively thin,-shaped cross-section131. The engagement sub-component127amay be defined by various differently shaped cross-sections (e.g., square, rectangular, triangular, circular; depending on the specific embodiment). Moreover, because of the-shaped cross-section131, the engagement sub-component127ais configured to readily slip inside of the hollow interior123aof the arm-to-post primary sub-component121and the hollow interior123cof the extension sub-component135a. Moreover, because of the-shaped cross-section131, a user can easily pinch the engagement sub-component127ato release the friction-fit between it and the arm-to-post primary sub-component121and/or the extension sub-component135a.

Furthermore, as previously stated, the sign attachment sub-system140holds in place and supports the signage10off of the extended arm component101. Two rider clips140a′and140a″are held in place and supported along the upper T-shaped channel103a. A user can insert/slide the rider clips140a′and140a″into the channel103avia the end(s) of the extended arm component101(best seen inFIG. 3; described in greater detail herein). In this way, the rider clips140a′and140a″are configured for adjustable positioning along the length of the extended arm component101.

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIGS. 1 and 2, two panel clips140b′and140b″are held in place and supported along the lower T-shaped channel103b. A user can insert/slide the panel clips140b′and140b″into the channel103bvia the end(s) of the extended arm component101(best seen inFIG. 3; described in greater detail here). In this way, the panel clips140b′and140b″are configured for adjustable positioning along the length of the extended arm component101.

Furthermore, as previously stated, the anchoring component160holds in place, supports, and maintains the vertical orientation of the semi-modular post sub-system120. The anchoring component160, being a ground stake, comprises an exemplary embodiment of a stake body162, a supporting substrate flange164, and secondary flanges166. One of ordinary skill in the art understands that the anchoring component160may comprise various other external or internal components/sub-systems.

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIGS. 1 and 2, the stake body162is an exemplary embodiment of an elongate barb. As such, the stake body162is configured for insertion into the supporting substrate so that it is in a vertical orientation for this particular embodiment. Moreover, the supporting substrate flange164is a squared flange that extends laterally off of the stake body162. As such, the supporting substrate flange164is configured to engage up against any supporting substrate and prevent any further insertion of the stake body162into the supporting substrate. The supporting substrate flange164is also configured to prevent tilting over from the vertical position, despite heavy loads. The supporting substrate flange164, therefore, facilitates the anchoring component160rigidly yet detachably engaging with/to the supporting substrate.

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIGS. 1 and 2, the secondary flanges166are squared flanges positioned serially, higher along the ground stake162than the supporting substrate flange164. The secondary flanges166are sufficiently sized for two primary functions. First, the secondary flanges166are sufficiently sized to receive a stepping force from a user, for example, such that the ground stake162is easily and readily inserted into the supporting substrate up to the supporting substrate flange164. As such, the anchoring component160is configured as a simple-to-install, no-tools-required barb. Second, the secondary flanges166are sufficiently sized to complement the squared cross-section130bof the extension sub-component135. As such, when the anchoring component160is received by the hollow interior123c, the secondary flanges166fit snuggly within the extension sub-component135so as to keep the assembled signpost100upright without significant wobble.

Furthermore, as previously stated, the decorative add-on sub-system180makes the assembled signpost100look like a classic carved wooden signpost. The pointed, extended arm caps180a′and180a″complement the squared cross section110of the extended arm component101but also have a slightly larger profile. A user can attach the pointed, extended arm caps180a′and180a″to the ends of the extended arm component101, respectively, via a friction-fit. In this way, the extended arm caps180a′and180a″are configured to detachably cap the ends of the extended arm component101. Moreover, the pointed, extended arm caps180a′and180a″are configured to cap off the hollow interior115and the T-shaped channels103.

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIGS. 1 and 2, the post finial cap180bcomplements the squared cross section130aof the arm-to-post primary sub-component121but also has a slightly larger profile. A user can attach the post finial cap180bto this one end of the arm-to-post primary sub-component121via a friction-fit. In this way, the post finial cap180bis configured to detachably cap one end of the arm-to-post primary sub-component121. Moreover, the post finial cap180bis configured to cap off the hollow interior123aand, therefore, prevent access to the engagement key105in this particular embodiment (described in greater detail herein).

Referring now toFIG. 3,FIG. 3is a front view of the assembled signpost ofFIG. 1with a pointed, extended arm cap removed. The exemplary embodiment illustrated inFIG. 3is similar to the exemplary embodiment illustrated inFIG. 1and, therefore, only the differences between these two exemplary embodiments are described.

As previously stated, the extended arm component101and the sign attachment sub-system140, via the T-shaped channels103, adjustably hold in place and support the signage10. The rider clips140a′and140a″each respectively comprise an engagement end141configured to complement the T-shaped channel103a. A user can insert/slide the engagement end141aof the rider clip140a″, for example, into the channel103avia the exposed end of the extended arm component101, when the pointed, extended arm cap180a′is removed. In this way, the rider clip140a″is configured for adjustable positioning along the length of the extended arm component101. Moreover, the pointed, extended arm cap180a′is configured to cap the T-shaped channel103aand, therefore, prevent inadvertent disengagement of the rider clip140a″from the extended arm component101.

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIGS. 1-3, the panel clips140b′and140b″each respectively comprise an engagement end142configured to complement the T-shaped channel103b. A user can insert/slide the engagement end142aof the panel clip140b″, for example, into the channel103bvia the exposed end of the extended arm component101, when the pointed, extended arm cap180a′is removed. In this way, the panel clip140b″is configured for easy sliding/adjustable positioning along the length of the extended arm component101. Moreover, the pointed, extended arm cap180a′is configured to cap the T-shaped channel103band, therefore, prevent inadvertent disengagement of the panel clip140b″from the extended arm component101.

Referring now toFIG. 4,FIG. 4is a top view of the assembled signpost ofFIG. 1with a finial cap removed. The exemplary embodiment illustrated inFIG. 4is similar to the exemplary embodiment illustrated inFIG. 1and, therefore, only the differences between these two exemplary embodiments are described.

As previously stated, the extended arm component101extends laterally off of the semi-modular post sub-system120to form an-shape. More specifically, the extended arm component101traverses the arm-to-post primary sub-component121of the semi-modular post sub-system120via the opening124such that the extended arm component101extends across the hollow interior123a. The extended arm component101remains in this fixed position, despite heavy loads, due to the engagement key105being received by the engagement slot107within the hollow interior123aof the arm-to-post primary sub-component121(best seen inFIG. 5; described in greater detail herein).

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIGS. 1-4, the engagement slot107(best seen inFIG. 5) is defined by the extended arm component101along the T-shaped channel103a. The engagement slot107complements the engagement key105such that a user can insert the engagement key105into the engagement slot107(described in greater detail herein). The engagement slot107may be configured as any shape or size, and positioned anywhere, known to one of ordinary skill in the art (e.g., square, rectangular, triangular, circular; depending on the specific embodiment of the engagement key105).

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIGS. 1-4, the engagement key105is an elongate extrusion-molded T-shaped sub-component. The engagement key105comprises one exemplary embodiment of an engagement end111(best seen inFIG. 5) and a retention end113. One of ordinary skill in the art understands that the engagement key105may comprise various other external or internal components/sub-systems with various other shapes/configurations. Moreover, the engagement end105is configured to complement the shape of the engagement slot107such that the engagement end105can be inserted into the engagement slot107.

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment ofFIGS. 1-4, the engagement key105may be manufactured from affordable and light, yet resilient, composite and/or synthetic materials. Therefore, the engagement key105demands minimal material costs, relative weight, or relative volume. Moreover, the engagement key105is a lightweight and easy-to-manipulate component piece that is easily manipulated by an end user.

Referring now toFIG. 5,FIG. 5is a perspective top and right side view of the assembled signpost ofFIG. 4. The exemplary embodiment illustrated inFIG. 5is similar to the exemplary embodiment illustrated inFIG. 4and, therefore, only the differences between these two exemplary embodiments are described.

As previously stated, the engagement key105is received by the engagement slot107within the hollow interior123aof the arm-to-post primary sub-component121. More specifically, in this particular embodiment, the assembled signpost100demands that the extended arm component101traverse the arm-to-post primary sub-component121such the engagement slot107is positioned/aligned within the hollow interior123a. A user can insert the engagement end111into the engagement slot107within the hollow interior123asuch that the retention end113rests on top of the extended arm component101along the T-shaped channel103a. In this way, the extended arm component101is configured to retain/fix the orientation/alignment of the assembled signpost100. More specifically, the retention end113of the extended arm component101is configured to prevent the extended arm component101for moving/sliding further through the opening125of the arm-to-post primary sub-component121.

Referring now toFIGS. 6-9,FIG. 6is a right side view of the assembled signpost ofFIG. 1.FIG. 7is a left side view of the assembled signpost ofFIG. 1.FIG. 8is a rear view of the assembled signpost ofFIG. 1.FIG. 9is a front view of the assembled signpost ofFIG. 1. The exemplary embodiments illustrated inFIGS. 6-9are similar to the exemplary embodiment illustrated inFIG. 1.

It is envisioned that the components or sub-systems of the assembled signpost100may be one contiguous discrete piece that is forged or cast molded. It is also envisioned that the components or sub-systems of the assembled signpost100may be a composite of multiple discrete and/or non-discrete sub-component pieces that are permanently and/or detachably engaged with one another. One of ordinary skill in the art recognizes that the components or sub-systems of the assembled signpost100may be made of any material(s). One of ordinary skill in the art of manufacturing understands the intricacies and fine details of building and structuring the components or sub-systems of the assembled signpost100.

It is also envisioned that the components or sub-systems of the assembled signpost100may be in and of itself, or superficially lined by, a corrosive resistant material(s) and/or a friction reducing material(s). This is especially true for any region of the components or sub-systems of the assembled signpost100that may be in contact with the external environment and/or any other articulable part of the signpost100. It is also envisioned that the dimensions of the components or sub-systems of the assembled signpost100are not limited by what is depicted in the FIGS. One of ordinary skill in the art understands that the components or sub-systems of the assembled signpost100may be scaled in size for any application or use.

Alternative embodiments for the system and method of the present disclosure will become apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains without departing from its spirit and scope. Therefore, although selected aspects have been illustrated and described in detail, it will be understood that various substitutions and alterations may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, as defined by the following claims.