Display board system

A mounting structure including at least one display board including a first mounting interface and a second mounting interface, a first pivotal interface including a first projection forming a retaining slot adapted to engage the first mounting interface of the display board wherein the first projection is a hook and the second pivotal interface adapted to engage the second mounting interface of the display board so that the display board is adapted to be removably pivotally coupled to the mounting structure at both the first pivotal interface and the second pivotal interface.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a display board system. The present invention more particularly relates to a display board system including display boards having a variety of surface treatments and providing a variety of mounting interfaces and associated mounting structures to facilitate the use and storage of the display boards.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

It is well known to display information on surfaces, typically boards on which the information is contained. For example, information is displayed on billboards, signs, prints, posters, chalk boards, white boards, installed through mounting interfaces to mounting structures such as walls, racks, posts, stands, to name but a few known applications. In a general sense, such known applications very ably provide for the display of information. However, such known applications are typically characterized either by their relative permanence or by their relative impermanence because of the surfaces on which the information is contained. For example, the mounting interfaces and associated mounting structures holding or providing for the surfaces, are generally either too rigid and inflexible, i.e. immobile and difficult to reconfigure or otherwise to use and store information, as in the case of information that is applied on a fixed wall, or too insubstantial, i.e. highly mobile but otherwise tending to put the information on display at risk of loss before it can be stored, as in the case of information that is posted on a vertical surface (e.g. a bulletin board). As a result, such known applications are generally not well suited for use in a dynamic work environment, where information is ideally created, displayed (e.g., shared and communicated) and stored in a highly efficient manner.

In an attempt to overcome the shortcomings of such known applications, the use of “display boards,” discrete information-containing structures that are mounted within a work space or work environment, has proliferated. However, such known display boards have typically not been provided with mounting interfaces that facilitate the use and storage of the display boards in a manner that facilitates “information persistence”—with information on the display boards being made readily available when needed while conveniently stowed when not needed, for example, for a group project. Moreover, the surface treatments applied to such known display boards are generally limited; such known display boards have typically not been provided with a combination of useful surface treatments that allow information to be conveyed in a variety of media. Nor have such known display boards been provided with mounting interfaces and associated mounting structures in a system that facilitates the use and interchangeability of the display boards and the use, display and storage of information contained on the display boards.

Accordingly, it would be advantageous to have a display board system adapted to use, display and store information efficiently in a dynamic work environment. It would also be advantageous to have a display board system that includes display boards having surface treatments that facilitate the collection, transformation, use, display and storage of information in a wide variety of formats. It would further be advantageous to have a display board system providing display boards of a similar basic construction and format and a relatively low cost, yet readily adapted for use with a plurality of mounting interfaces. It would further be advantageous to have a plurality of mounting structures adapted to support and promote the use, display and storage of the display boards. It would further be advantageous if the mounting structures were configured to allow the efficient use, display and storage of display boards so that information contained on the display boards could efficiently be used, displayed and stored by persons in a work environment to increase productivity, particularly in the performance of groups.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an apparatus for display of information in a work environment. The apparatus includes a display board with a substantially rigid core and defines a first side having a first surface and a second side opposite of the first side having a second surface. The first surface has a first surface treatment and the second surface has a second surface treatment. The first surface treatment includes a reusable adhesive and a clear film cover over the reusable adhesive.

The present invention further relates to an apparatus for display of information in a work environment. The apparatus includes a display board with a substantially rigid core and defining a first side having a first surface and a second side opposite of the first side having a second surface, the first surface having a first surface treatment and the second surface having a second surface treatment. The first surface treatment includes a reusable adhesive and the second surface treatment is a functional surface treatment.

The present invention further relates to an apparatus for display of information in a work environment. The apparatus includes a display board with a substantially rigid core and defining a first side having a first surface and a second side opposite of the first side having a second surface, the first surface having a first surface treatment and the second surface having a second surface treatment. The display board has a generally rectangular shape with a first set of corners each having a first multi-functional mounting interface and a second set of corners each having a second mounting interface.

The present invention further relates to a mounting structure for at least one display board providing a first mounting interface and a second mounting interface. The mounting structure includes a first pivotal interface adapted to engage the first mounting interface of the display board and a second pivotal interface adapted to engage the second mounting interface of the display board so that the display board is removably pivotally mounted within the mounting structure.

The present invention further relates to a mounting structure for associating at least one display board providing a mounting interface with a panel wall having a top and a first side opposing a second side. The mounting structure includes a rail having a first end and a second end and at least one track for engagement with the mounting interface of the display board between the first end and the second end and an end fitting coupled to each of the first end of the rail and the second end of the rail. The mounting structure also includes a hook for placement over the top of the panel wall, a pivot post coupled to the hook and pivotally coupled to the end fitting, and a spring member coupled to the pivot post within the end fitting tending to draw the hook into contact with the first side of the panel wall and the end fitting into contact with the second side of the panel wall.

The present invention further relates to a mounting structure for display of at least one display board. The mounting structure includes a frame, a platform for the display board coupled to the frame, and a compliant retaining system for the display board coupled to the frame. The display board can be placed on the platform and pressed into secure engagement with the compliant retaining system.

The present invention further relates to an easel for use with at least one display board. The easel includes a base, a first frame section coupled to the base, a second frame section coupled to the base, a stowing area formed between the first frame section and second frame section, a first tray coupled to the first frame section, and a second tray coupled to the second frame section. A first display board can be placed on display on the first tray, a second display board can be placed on display on the second tray, and a plurality of display boards can be stored in the stowing area.

The present invention further relates to a mounting structure associated with an existing structure and for use with at least one display board. The mounting structure includes an articulating frame pivotally coupled to the existing structure for movement between a fully deployed position and a fully stowed position. The mounting structure also includes at least one display rack coupled to the articulating frame and providing an interface for pivotal coupling of a plurality of display boards.

The present invention further relates to an easel having a base and a support frame adapted to provide for the display of display boards on a tray coupled to the support frame. The base of the easel has a nested portion and a nesting portion so that one easel can be nested within another easel.

The present invention further relates to an easel having a base and a support frame adapted to provide for the display of display boards on a tray coupled to the support frame. The easel includes pivotally coupling the base to the support frame and pivotally coupling the tray to the support frame.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring toFIGS. 1 and 2, a display board100is shown according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Display board100includes side frame members shown as extruded edge trim members102and top and bottom frame members also shown as extruded edge trim members104. Display board100includes four corner members106(top) and108(bottom) secured to side frame members102and top and bottom frame members104. Display board100includes a rigid core110providing outer surfaces, namely a front surface112and a back surface (not visible).

According to any preferred embodiment, the display board is configured in a generally symmetrical basic form so that the designation of a “front surface” and “back surface” is essentially arbitrary and dependent upon the orientation of the display board with respect to a person intending to use the display board. As shown in the Figs., and as will be apparent to those who review this disclosure, the outer surfaces of the display boards may be provided with a wide variety of functional surface treatments (e.g. tackable adhesive, clear film overlay or “photo album”, dear film “pocket”, writable clear film, cork or tack board, peg board, magnetic board, marker board, dry erase or “white” board, paper or paper tablet, projection screen, etc.) or decorative surface treatments (e.g. graphics display, cloth, etc.) in a wide variety of combinations (i.e. with one surface differing in whole or in part from the other surface) that may be suited or adapted to a wide variety of functional and decorative purposes according to preferred and other alternative or exemplary embodiments of the present invention. According to any preferred embodiment, the display boards are configured for ease and flexibility of use (e.g. recording, mapping, transformation, capture, etc.), display (e.g. sharing and communicating), and storage (e.g. persistence) of information, as well as of mounting and removal from associated mounting structures.

As evident fromFIGS. 3,4and7, the rigid core of the display board may be formed of any of a variety or materials or have any of a variety of constructions. According to a preferred embodiment, as shown inFIGS. 1 through 3, rigid core110of display board100is formed of an internal honeycomb core structure114having an external facing sheet116. According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the honeycomb core structure with integrated facing sheet is of a type commercially available from Tenneco Packaging, Inc. of Lake Forest, Ill. Surface112of display board100is attached to facing sheet116(for example, by a hot melt adhesive, or by other methods). According to an alternative embodiment, as shown inFIG. 4, rigid core110may be formed from an open honeycomb core structure114(i.e. similar to that shown inFIG. 3but without a external facing sheet) to which surface112is attached. According to another alternative embodiment, as shown inFIG. 7, rigid core110may be formed from a solid or composite material or any other types of materials. According to any preferred embodiment, the rigid core (and associated frame members) will be of a construction that provides for a display board that is lightweight yet of sufficient structural integrity to suit its intended purposes (i.e. as may be defined by the particular surface treatment and associated mounting structures) and generally resistant to warping and bending. According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the edge trim members are made of a plastic material.

As is shown, side frame members102and top and bottom frame members104fit over and are secured to the edge of rigid core110(e.g. a press fit working with application of an adhesive). Corner members106and108each fit over and are joined to one of side frame members102and one of top or bottom frame members104to form a secure frame structure for display board100. (According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the corner members and frame members are made of a plastic material and are joined by ultrasonic welding; according to alternative embodiments, the members can be joined or attached by adhesives or fastening arrangements.) As shown inFIG. 7, each of frame members102and104provides a curved exterior but includes a generally orthogonal interior receptacle128ashaped to receive and retain rigid core110. The receptacle is formed between perimeter edges126of each frame member102and104and a pair of inwardly disposed transverse opposed ribs128(generally perpendicular to perimeter edges126and extending along the length of each frame member). Each corner member106(not shown) or108has a generally triangular profile (although other profiles may be used according to alternative embodiments) with a curved exterior and includes an opening configured to receive a corresponding corner portion of rigid core110and curved exterior of each of two adjacent frame members102and104. The opening includes a pair of inwardly disposed opposed fins130that extend along a central portion of opening between a pair of opposed receptacles (each shaped to receive the curved exterior of frame members102or104). During assembly, the corner member is press fit onto the corresponding corner portion of the rigid core and over the two adjacent frame members. Corner member108spreads open at opposed fins130(slightly) while crossing frame members102and104, then springs back to locate corner member108onto corner portion of rigid core110. According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the corner members are able to withstand a “drop” without damage to the display board.

According to an exemplary embodiment of display board100shown inFIG. 8, top corner member106includes an mounting element shown as an integral post-hook clip140; bottom corner member108includes an aperture152. Post-hook clip140includes a curved top cap142coupled to the top of corner member106by a web146. Curved top cap142provides two opposed hooks144. Post-hook clip140also includes a post148formed in web146(adjacent to a clearance slot150). Bottom corner member108includes aperture152configured to fit on a pivot pin (not shown). As a result, a “multi-functional” mounting interface is provided and display board100is suited for both for hanging (e.g. by the hook of the top corner member with the bottom corner member free of any engagement) and for pivotal mounting (e.g. through the post of the top corner member and the aperture of the bottom corner member); in addition, display board100is also suited for other forms of engagement or display.

Referring toFIGS. 9 through 12A, according to an alternative embodiment, top corner member106includes a mounting element shown as a repositionable post-hook dip160. As shown, repositionable post-hook clip160is of the same basic arrangement of integral post-hook clip140, with curved top cap162providing hooks164and web168supporting top cap162and including post168and clearance slot170. Repositionable post-hook clip160also includes a curved base cap172shaped to fit over the top or side of corner member106. Base cap172of post-hook clip160includes a pair of inwardly disposed opposed fins174, each fin having a tab176at its leading edge so that when it is installed into corresponding horizontal groove178aor vertical groove178b, post-hook clip160is secured by a slot180at the terminal end of either of grooves178aor178bwhich engage tab176in a compliant (e.g. “snap”) fit (see FIG.12A). As a result, depending upon how the repositionable post-hook clip is installed (and the direction of mounting or engagement), the display board may be engaged either in a “landscape” mode or a “portrait” mode.

Referring toFIG. 13, corner member106of display board100includes a “universal” integral mounting element182configured with a pair of caps184providing a set of hooks186both on the top and the side of corner member106. Caps184also include a pair of opposed projections188aand188bboth on the top and the side of corner member106. Hooks186and projections188aand188bare configured for engagement with a mounting structure (not shown in FIG.13). According to any preferred embodiment, the universal integral mounting element allows both for hanging attachment (e.g. by the hooks, as shown in exemplaryFIGS. 26 and 27) or pivotal engagement (e.g. by projections188aand188b, see, e.g., FIGS.23B and23C). The universal integral mounting element (e.g. providing a multi-functional mounting surface) also allows for attachment of the display board in either landscape mode or portrait mode.

As indicated, the surfaces of the display board may be provided with any of a wide variety of surface treatments, both functional and decorative, in a wide variety of combinations (i.e. one surface of a display board may have in whole or in part a different surface treatment than the other surface) and portions. According to any preferred embodiment, the surface treatment of the display boards will allow the display of one or more “layers” of information on each surface. InFIG. 1, display board100includes a writable surface112(e.g. a Melamine paper dry-erase or other “white board” surface); the other surface of the display board may have a reusable adhesive (e.g. “tacky” or repositionable posting surface treatment). As shown inFIGS. 5 and 6, display board100includes with a clear film cover120(e.g. overlay) over a tackable surface112b(e.g. “photo album”). As shown, clear film cover120includes an upper sheet122aand a lower sheet122b; surface112(not shown inFIG. 5) beneath clear film cover120is provided with a light adhesive (e.g. “tackable”, “tacky” or “sticky”) surface treatment so that both upper sheet122aand lower sheet122bof clear film cover120and sheets of paper or other materials (e.g. “paper capture” for display beneath the clear film cover) will removably adhere to surface112(upper sheet and lower sheet may lift off in any direction or one, or three or more sheets may be provided according to alternative embodiments). According to a particularly preferred embodiment, each sheet of the clear film cover is made of a material that is “writable” (either permanently or erasably, i.e. reusably for a number of cycles). As shown inFIGS. 5,5A and5B, each sheet of clear film cover120may include a lifting tab124a(FIG. 5A) that is of the same material as the sheet or a lifting tab124b(FIG. 5B) that is of a different material or treatment than the sheet (e.g. a colored plastic flap that is more readily visible and non-adhesive).FIGS. 5C through 5Eshow a post123inserted into display board100that contacts with holes123× to secure lifting tabs1246(for upper sheet122aand lower sheet122b) to surface112of display board100. Post123may be inserted on one side of the display board or (as shown inFIG. 5E) may be provided in a two-headed post125that extends through core110of display board100.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the clear film cover is a dry-erase polyester film sheet of a 0.007 inch thickness with acrylic hardcoat and 90 percent gloss level commercially available from Tekra Corporation of New Berlin, Wis. under the name MARNOT™. The tacky surfaces for the display boards according to particularly preferred embodiments are of a type similar to the POST-IT™ memo board/bulletin board adhesive surface products commercially available from 3M Corporation of St. Paul, Minn.; “tackiness” is reduced from the typical range of 75-125 grams to a range of approximately 20-50 grams when used with display boards providing the clear film cover. Preferably, tacky (or “tackable”) surface treatments will provide at least 250 cycles of “stick on” and “peel off” use (whether with the clear film cover or directly with sheets of paper or other material). According to an alternative embodiment shown inFIG. 6A, surface112of display board100is provided with a series of “tacky” (e.g. reusable adhesive) sections112xsized and selectively arranged to reduce lift off force while maintaining higher tackiness; “tacky” sections could be in various shapes or patterns, such as stripes.

According to preferred embodiments, the display boards are provided in a variety of sizes, though typically in a rectangular shape suitable for use and display of information in either portrait mode or landscape mode. Typical sizes would include 34 by 46 inches or a half-size 22 by 34 inches, though many other sizes are available according to alternative embodiments. According to any particularly preferred embodiment, the display boards are sized to correspond to the standard delivery format of the materials from which they are assembled (e.g. roll widths or sheet sizes of film material or adhesive surfaces, etc.). (The core of the display board may also be provided in a variety of widths.)

FIGS. 14 through 16show exemplary embodiments of accessories for use with one or more display boards.FIG. 14shows a storage cup clip190including a cup-shaped receptacle192configured to contain markers194(shown in phantom lines) or the like. A clip portion196of storage cup clip190includes a pair of curved projections198shaped and sized to fit securely onto frame member102of display board100. According to any preferred embodiment, the clip portion will be fit securely onto frame member (e.g. as to prevent undesired slipping or sliding along frame member when receptacle is loaded) but the curved projections will deform readily to allow both attachment and removal of the storage cup clip when desired.FIG. 15shows a utility clip200. Utility clip200provides two clip portions202each having a pair of curved projections204connected by a central web206. Clip portions202are shaped and sized to fit onto frame member102of a display board100b. As shown, utility clip200can be used to attach adjacent display boards100aand100bby their adjacent frame members (e.g. providing a display board “interlock”); alternatively, the utility clip can be used to attach a marker to a display board. According to any preferred embodiment, the clip portions of the utility clip are configured to securely attach to the frame member of the display board (or display boards) yet will readily allow for detachment.FIG. 16shows a label clip210formed from a pair of curved projections212coupled by a flat web214. A label216(e.g. a paper slip or the like) can be slid into a slot218formed by grooves219in web214and is held in place against frame member102by spring tension. As shown, label clip210fits securely (and removably) onto frame member102of display board100by spring tension and is made of a clear plastic material (e.g. styrene) so that label216is readily visible through flat web214. According to any preferred embodiment, the clips are made of a compliant, spring-like material such as plastic, and will be provided with a mating profile, whether provided by projections or other engaging elements, that are suitably matched to the shape or construction of the corresponding frame or edge of the display boards to allow selectively for secure attachment and removal.

Referring toFIGS. 17 through 45, a variety of mounting structures for display boards are shown according to preferred and alternative embodiments of the present invention. The mounting structures are adapted to mount or stand the display boards on other structures, for example, floors, architectural walls, panel walls, systems furniture, other articles of furniture, etc. According to the preferred embodiments, the mounting structures are configured for display and use with (and storage of) the display boards shown and described inFIGS. 1 through 16. The variety of mounting structures that may be used with the display boards illustrates the flexibility and adaptability of display boards and their mounting interfaces. However, it is important to note that according to alternative embodiments that will be apparent to those who review this disclosure, the mounting structures can readily be adapted for use or interfacing (e.g. hanging, pivot mount, press fit, leaning, etc. in a variety of modes, such as landscape mode or portrait mode) with a wide variety of display boards having a wide variety of alternative sizes, shapes and constructions. It is also important to note generally that according to any preferred embodiment, the display board system is intended to promote and advance the efficient use, display and storage of information and layers of information on display boards (regardless of the format by which the information is placed on the display boards) through their mounting interfaces and associated mounting structures.

Referring specifically toFIG. 17, a mounting structure is shown as a rack220. Rack220provides a pivotal mounting interface for display boards100(e.g. in the manner of a flip book with ready visibility of both surfaces of display boards100). Rack220includes a center frame222and a cover224; rack220also includes a cap226and a base228securing frame222and cover224into an integrated structure. Frame222includes two side walls230and a center wall232. Side walls230of frame222each include a top mounting tab234and a bottom mounting tab236, which project horizontally from an upper ledge238or lower ledge240at the top and bottom of frame222, respectively. Each of side walls230of frame222also includes a vertical trim rail242. According a particularly preferred embodiment, the center frame is integrally formed (e.g. folded) from sheet metal. Cover224includes a series of vertical corrugations244and has a vertical trim hook246within each lateral end forming a groove248. Each vertical trim hook246of cover224is configured to engage corresponding vertical trim rail242of frame222(e.g. within groove248), holding cover224onto frame222. According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the cover is formed from an extruded plastic material. Base228includes a flat bottom250and a core252(above bottom) having rear and side walls256providing a profile configured to contain lower ledge240of center frame222and a front wall258providing a corrugated profile corresponding generally to corrugations244of cover224(slightly offset and larger). A horizontal ledge260including four vertical pegs262(e.g. rounded posts) extends from front wall258of base228. Each bottom mounting tab236of frame222fits within core252of base; threaded mounting holes235in each bottom mounting tab236of frame222correspond to mounting holes264in core252to allow base228to be secured to frame222with threaded fasteners266. Cap226includes a flat top268and a core270(beneath top268) having rear and side walls272providing a profile configured to contain upper ledge238of center frame222and a front wall274providing a corrugated profile corresponding generally to corrugations244of cover224(slightly offset and larger). A horizontal plate276extends from front wall274of cap226; horizontal plate276includes four curved hooks278forming four retaining slots280(having a narrowing retaining profile as shown). Each top mounting tab234of frame222fits within core270of cap226; threaded mounting holes235in each top mounting tab234of frame222correspond to mounting holes266ain core270to allow cap226to be secured to frame222with a threaded fastener266(or a thread forming fastener). According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the base and cap are formed from a plastic material.

According to any particularly preferred embodiment, the rack is adapted for mounting to a structure provided by a wall or other article (e.g. by any of a variety of conventional or other mounting arrangements). As shown inFIG. 17, each side wall230of center frame222of rack220contains a mounting arrangement shown as a pattern of mounting holes282(e.g. upper and lower set of adjustment slots) through which fasteners (shown as screws284) are used to secure rack220in corresponding mounting holes286in a vertical structure shown as an architectural wall288. As shown inFIG. 17, rack220is mounted into a corner290of architectural wall288and thus is mounted at each side wall230of frame222. According to alternative embodiments, the rack can be mounted by one of its side walls against a single wall or structure providing a vertical frame, or by a wide variety of other mounting arrangements that will become apparent to those who review this disclosure; the pattern of mounting holes can be arranged to fit a wide variety of mounting structures, such as walls or frames.

Referring toFIGS. 18 through 20, the interface between the display board system and rack220is shown. As is evident fromFIG. 20, rack220provides a pivotal mounting interface for one or a plurality of display boards (four are shown as according to a particularly preferred embodiment, though according to alternative arrangements the mounting structure can provide for any number of display boards). InFIG. 18, peg262of base228of rack220is shown being engaged through an aperture152in bottom corner member108of display board100. Corrugations244in cover224of rack220provide a guide (visual and physical) to assist the installation of display boards (e.g. to “find” peg). InFIGS. 19A and 19B, hook278and corresponding retaining slot280of cap226of rack220is shown being engaged by post148of top corner member106of display board100. InFIG. 19A, post148is disengaged and at the relatively wide opening of retaining slot280; inFIG. 19B, post148is engaged (e.g. “gripped”) having been guided around hook278, namely slid into and around the narrowing retaining profile of retaining slot280, and into a secure, trapped (placement) fit at a terminus280aof retaining slot280(e.g. terminus280ahas an inner diameter or profile slightly larger than an outer diameter of cylindrical post148). The weight of the display board serves to retain the post in the terminus of the retaining slot in use (e.g. pivotal movement of the display board). According to alternative embodiments, the rack can be of a variety of sizes allowing for installation of a greater or lesser number of display boards (e.g. with more or less than four pegs and corresponding retaining slots).

FIGS. 21 and 22show exemplary mounting arrangements for securing rack220to a panel wall system. As shown inFIG. 21, panel wall292includes a horizontal slotted rail294including a repeating arrangement of slots296spaced apart by webs298. A mounting bracket300is configured to mount rack220to panel wall292. Mounting bracket300includes a base302(having a “L”-shaped profile with a top304and a side wall306) and a spring clip308(also having a “L”-shaped profile with a top310and a side wall312) that is joined to base302by welding or the like (e.g. two spot welds314are shown) so that the corresponding side walls are ordinarily maintained in facing contact under a holding or biasing force. A threaded rod316is joined to side wall306of base302and projects through an oversized aperture318in side wall312of spring clip308. Top304of base302includes two hooks320each forming a retaining slot322separated by a gap324; top310of spring clip308includes a tab326flanked by two flaps328. Each hook320of base302of mounting bracket300is sized for insertion within slot296of horizontal slotted rail294of panel wall292. As shown, a space330is formed between tab326and flap328of spring clip308within retaining slot322of hook320of base302. Referring toFIG. 21A, mounting bracket300is shown inserted into horizontal slotted rail294prior to engagement; hooks320have been inserted into slots296(not shown) of horizontal slotted rail294and tab326of spring clip308rests against web298of horizontal slotted rail294so that the corresponding side walls306and312of base302and spring clip308have temporarily been urged apart. Referring toFIG. 21B, mounting bracket300has been securely engaged within horizontal slotted rail294; the corresponding side walls of base302and spring clip308are in facing contact, and web298is retained within space330provided by mounting bracket300. (Tab326thus secures mounting bracket300until spring clip308is separated (e.g. pried apart from base for deinstallation.) With mounting bracket300engaged within horizontal slotted rail294at the designated mounting points (e.g. upper and lower), rack220is cantilevered from panel wall292. As shown, mounting between mounting bracket300and rack220is effected through a corresponding aperture (shown as a mounting slot282inFIG. 21) with a fastener (shown as a nut332inFIG. 21to be threaded onto threaded rod316).

Referring toFIG. 22, a mounting arrangement for securing rack220to a panel wall334having a vertical slotted rail336(providing a series of slots338spaced apart by webs340) is shown. A mounting bracket342(of an “L”-shaped profile) has a base344and set of rearwardly projecting hooks346sized to fit into slots338and to engage webs340of vertical slotted rail336; a pair of threaded rods348project forward from base344of mounting bracket342. With mounting bracket342engaged within vertical slotted rail336at the designated mounting points (e.g. upper and lower), rack220is cantilevered from panel wall334. As shown, mounting between mounting bracket342and rack220is effected through a corresponding aperture pattern (shown as mounting slots282) with a set of fasteners (shown as a pair of nuts332to be threaded onto each threaded rod348). According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the mounting bracket may include a spring clip or other locking member.

Referring toFIGS. 23 and 23A, a storage tray350for a rack220is shown (along with a mounting interface). Storage tray350includes a horizontal floor352having a ledge or rim354and vertical walls (e.g. a back wall356and two side walls358). Each of the vertical walls of storage tray350includes a vertical peg360that can be securely press fit into a corresponding aperture362in the bottom of base228of rack220. When storage tray350is installed onto base228of rack220tools (shown in phantom lines as a marker194and an eraser195) can be stored or removed through a front opening366between rim354and the bottom364of base228. According to an alternative embodiment shown inFIGS. 23B and 23C, a modified rack220awith cap226aand base228aproviding apertures189from a web191accommodates the display board mounting interface shown in FIG.13.

Referring toFIGS. 24 through 27, a mounting structure is shown as a rail system according to exemplary embodiments. Referring toFIG. 24, rail system370is adapted to provide a generally horizontal rail372(for hanging display boards100from a panel wall374or similar structure) having at each end a pivotal mounting interface shown as a self-adjusting hook assembly376. Hook assembly376includes a hook378(formed from a horizontal cap380with a downwardly projecting peg382) pivotally coupled to a end fitting384through a pivot post386(e.g. peg).

As shown inFIG. 25C, rail372is pivotally coupled to hook assembly376.FIG. 25Dshows the detail of the pivotal coupling of hook assembly376according to an exemplary embodiment. Pivot post386includes a double shoulder bolt388having an outer stage390and an inner stage392and fitted within an aperture394(e.g. collar) in end fitting. A torsion spring398is installed around and secured to outer stage of double shoulder bolt388at one end and secured within end fitting396at the other end. Inner stage392of double shoulder bolt388has a threaded end402and is secured within end fitting400by a locking nut404(with washer406). An end cap408is fitted onto the base of end fitting400after inner stage392of double shoulder bolt388has been secured within end fitting400so as to allow pivotal movement of hook (not shown) with respect to end fitting400(through pivot post386); torsion spring398is biased to tend to pivot the hook toward rail (e.g. pulling the peg into contact with the rail). According to the exemplary embodiments, hook assembly376is adapted to adjust to the width of the panel wall (or other structure) from which it is suspended (within a range defined by the reach or length of the hook). For example, hook assembly376is shown engaged with a relatively wide panel wall374ain FIG.25A and with a relatively thin panel wall374bin FIG.25B.

Referring toFIGS. 27 and 27A(and corresponding to FIGS.25A through25C), a single track rail410is shown with a corresponding hook assembly376. Single track rail410has a generally “L”-shaped profile with a vertical base portion412and a horizontal rail portion414(projecting to one side along base portion412). Rail portion414has a single track416with a retaining rim418at its leading edge. Hook assembly376includes an end fitting384secured to each end of single track rail410by fasteners shown as screws420extending through apertures422ain end fitting384and threaded into corresponding apertures422in base portion412of single track rail410. To suspend display board100from rail410, hook144of corner member106of display board100is engaged within corresponding track416of rail410(see, e.g., FIG.27). Referring toFIGS. 26 and 26A(and corresponding to FIG.25D), a dual track rail424is shown with a corresponding hook assembly426. Dual track rail424has an inverted “T”-shaped profile with a vertical base portion428and two horizontal rail portions430each providing a track432with a retaining rim434at its leading edge. Hook assembly376includes an end fitting400secured to each end of dual track rail424by fasteners shown as screws420extending through apertures422ain end fitting400and threaded into corresponding apertures422in base portion428of dual track rail424. To suspend one display board100from rail424hook144of corner member106of display board100(one or more) is engaged within corresponding track432of dual track rail424(see, e.g., FIG.26).

Referring toFIGS. 28 through 31, a mounting structure is shown as a tray arrangement according to exemplary embodiments. As shown, tray440is configured for attachment to a mounting bracket442(which is mounted to a structure such as a wall446by a mounting screw448) or to a mounting frame444(which is placed on a horizontal surface such as a shelf450). Mounting bracket442is formed with a central mounting plate452having upper and lower tracks454. Mounting frame444is a wire frame structure formed with upper and lower horizontal frame members456that span across right and left legs458; legs458are of an “L”-shape each having a vertical frame member460and a horizontal support462(shown with cylindrical feet464installed). Tray440includes upper and lower arms466, each having a groove468for engagement either with upper and lower tracks454of mounting bracket442or with upper and lower horizontal frame members456of mounting frame444. Upper and lower arms466of tray440support a horizontal platform470having an inner vertical rim472and an outer vertical rim474. When tray440is installed onto mounting bracket442or mounting frame444its upper and lower arms466with platform470form a sturdy support structure for a display board100(which will lean against a vertical structure such as wall446or another article and will stand on inner vertical rim472); platform470forms a support structure for tools (not shown) such as markers or the like between inner vertical rim472and outer vertical rim474. (According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the support structure is made of an extruded plastic material.) Referring toFIGS. 30 and 31, tray440is mounted to wall446with mounting brackets442(preferably at least two). Support of display boards100(two are shown) is augmented by a pair of horizontally projecting grips476mounted to wall446. Grips476include a compliant grip portion compliant retaining members shown as478and a mounting flange480(secured to wall446by a fastener shown as screw482threaded into wall446). Grips476are mounted to wall446at a spacing that is essentially identical to the width of display board100; when display board100is press fit between grips476a holding force is provided against frame members102of display board100by each contacted compliant grip portion478of grips476(which deform slightly). According to a particularly preferred embodiment, compliant grip portion478includes a series of deformable fins484and is made of an elastomeric material so that display board is securely held but conveniently removed. The holding force provided by the grips may be adjusted by variations in the shape and profile of the grip portions (e.g. the thickness and spacing of the deformable fins, if fins are employed), as well as the material of construction, the spacing distance of mounting to the wall, etc. according to alternative embodiments.

Referring toFIG. 32, a mounting structure is shown as a mat according to an exemplary embodiment. Mat490provides a top surface492having a series of vertically projecting guides494(shown as having varying heights) and a bottom surface496given a non-skid surface treatment (according to any conventional method). When mat490is installed on a horizontal surface such as a work surface or shelf450(as shown), it provides at one or more of its projecting guides494a stand or support for the base of a display board100(shown in phantom lines) leaning against a vertical structure (shown in phantom lines as a wall). Other of the projecting guides may serve as holders for tool such as markers or the like. According to any particularly preferred embodiment, the mat is made of a rubber or plastic material.

Referring toFIGS. 33A through 40, a mounting structure is shown as an easel (e.g., stand or cart) according to exemplary embodiments. According to any preferred embodiments, each of the easels is formed from a welded steel tube structure, although other materials may be used according to alternative embodiments. A nesting easel500is shown inFIGS. 33A through 33G. Nesting easel500is a rigid structure having a pair of substantially upright rearwardly tilted side frame members502coupled to a curved back or handle member504and to a horizontal cross member506covered by a board pad508. Side frame members502are coupled to a base510. Base510has a pair of legs512coupled by a center portion514(providing base510with a tapering “V”/“U”-shaped profile) and a pair of substantially upright forwardly tilted support frame members516. At the junction of each leg512and center portion514of base510a support pad518(e.g. of a compliant or elastomeric material) is provided; tapered center portion514of base510is raised to provide a capturing lip520. A folding tray assembly522including a (plastic) tray524(of an “L”-shaped profile) is pivotally coupled across side frame members502(e.g. by a bolt or other conventional pivotal mounting arrangement); tray assembly can be pivoted from a deployed position (shown inFIG. 33A) to a stowed position (shown in FIG.33C). A display board100rests on tray524(with a retaining groove523) and against board pad508for display (as shown in FIGS.33B and33D); an exposed portion of tray524is available for holding tools such as markers194and erasers195. Display boards100not in use can be stored in base510of easel500(as shown inFIGS. 33B and 33D) resting on support pads518and against board pad508; capturing lip520of base510will serve to keep leaning display boards100within base510. As is shown inFIGS. 33C and 33F, after tray assembly522has been stowed, open front portion526of base510of one easel can be fitted onto tapered center portion514of base510of an adjacent easel so that one easel can be nested into the adjacent easel in a repeating pattern. According to a particularly preferred embodiment, as shown inFIG. 33G, board pad, which is intended to prevent damage or marring of the display boards, is made of a neoprene wrap528fitted over cross member506.

A folding easel530is shown inFIGS. 34A through 34E. Folding easel530is a rigid structure having a pair of substantially upright rearwardly tilted side frame members532coupled to an upper horizontal cross member534covered by a board pad528and a lower horizontal cross member536. Side frame members532have a curved upper portion538. A folding base540is pivotally coupled to side frame members532. Folding base540includes a pair of support arms542and a center member544(e.g. folding base540has a “U”-shaped profile). Support arms542of folding base540include a projecting tab546for pivotal coupling to side frame member532. At each curved upper portion538of side frame members532a compliant retaining system including a grip548(e.g. of a compliant or elastomeric material) having deformable fins550(e.g. ribs) is provided. At each of upper exposed ends552of side frame members532a flexible flap554(e.g. of a compliant or elastomeric material) is provided (seeFIG. 34B) to form a holding area556for display boards100(shown in phantom lines). An upper folding tray assembly558(with a retaining groove557) including a plastic tray559a(of an “L”-shaped profile) is pivotally coupled across side frame members532, as shown inFIG. 34E, along with folding base540through tabs546. A lower folding tray assembly560including a plastic tray559b(e.g. substantially identical to plastic tray559aof upper folding tray assembly558) is pivotally coupled across support arms542of folding base540. According to any preferred embodiment, the pivotal couplings are effected by bolts or other conventional pivotal mounting arrangements. Upper and lower tray assemblies558and560can be pivoted from a deployed position (shown inFIG. 34A) to a stowed position (shown in FIG.34E). A display board100rests on upper tray559aand against board pad528for display. As shown inFIG. 34D, display board100is securely held between grips548; an exposed portion of upper tray559ais available for holding tools such as markers194and erasers195. Display boards100not in use can be stored in holding area556of easel530resting on lower tray559band against board pad528or against adjacent display boards (as shown in FIGS.34C and34D). Flexible flaps554will serve to keep leaning display boards within base540. As is shown inFIG. 34C, at least one of the display boards stored in holding area556is also visible from the rear of easel530. When folding easel530is not in use, as shown inFIG. 34E, upper and lower tray assemblies558and560can be stowed and folding base540can be folded onto to side frame members532, forming a compact structure.

An adjustable easel570is shown inFIGS. 35 through 37B. Easel570is a rigid structure having a pair of substantially upright rearwardly tilted side frame members572coupled to a curved back or handle member574and to a horizontal cross member576covered by a board pad578. Side frame members572are coupled to a base580. Base580has a pair of legs582coupled by a center portion584(providing base580with a tapering “U”-shaped profile). A tray support plate586is coupled across side frame members572. Plate586includes at each lateral side a track588and a pattern of adjustment slots590. An adjustable tray assembly592including a base frame594having an arm596, from which extends a horizontal tray598, is adjustably mounted to plate586across side frame members572. Base frame594of tray assembly592includes at each lateral side a guide block600which fits within corresponding track588of plate586to allow for guided vertical movement of tray assembly592with respect to plate586. Base frame594of tray assembly592also includes at each lateral side a locking member formed as a releasable tab602(e.g. a “finger release”). Each locking member602includes a rearward projection604that is biased into a position that will engage any adjacent corresponding adjustment slot590of plate586as tray assembly592is guided vertically within track588of plate586. When projection604is engaged in any corresponding adjustment slot590, tray assembly592is retained in the corresponding vertical position with respect to plate586(see FIG.37B). Each locking member also includes a release lever606; lifting of release lever606disengages projection604from adjustment slot590and frees tray assembly592for vertical movement with respect to plate586(see phantom line disclosure in FIG.37A). Vertical adjustment of the position of tray assembly592with respect to plate586is therefore defined by the pattern of adjustment slots within plate586, each adjustment slot providing a discrete vertical position for tray assembly. A display board100(shown in phantom lines in both landscape and portrait mode inFIG. 35) rests on arm596of tray assembly592and against board pad578for display or use. Tray598which includes a base depression608is available for holding tools such as markers and erasers (not shown). According to any particularly preferred embodiment, the easel is made of a welded steel structure and the tray assembly is formed from a plastic material.

A mobile easel610is shown inFIGS. 38 and 39. Mobile easel610is a generally rigid and symmetrical structure including a generally rectangular base frame612having relatively short horizontal side cross members614(one is visible inFIG. 38) and relatively long horizontal front (or lower) cross members616(one is visible in FIG.38). Base frame612also includes four curved legs618(three are visible inFIG. 38) and two sets of generally vertical support frame members620(three are visible in FIG.38). Each set of support frame members620is coupled by a horizontal upper cross member622(parallel to a corresponding lower cross member616of base frame612). Each support frame member has a curved upper portion624. At each curved upper portion624of support frame members620a compliant retaining system (or compliant member) shown as a grip626(e.g. of a compliant or elastomeric material) having deformable fins (or ribs)628is provided. A horizontal tray assembly630(with a retaining groove631) is installed across each set of support frame members620at a location between upper cross member622and lower cross member616. A folded panel632(e.g. a sheet metal panel folded into a rectilinear “U”-shaped profile) is mounted between base frame612and each set of support frame members620(below each tray assembly630) to form a stowing area634for display boards100between each set of support frame members620. A display board100may rest on each tray assembly630and upper cross member622(which may be covered with a board pad) for display or use. As shown inFIGS. 38 and 39, display board100is securely held between grips626: an exposed portion of each tray assembly630is available for holding tools such as markers194and erasers195(not shown). Stowing area634is provided with a floor636and walls638(by panel632) for secure storage of display boards100that are not in use. However, stowing area634also has open ends640and an open top642to allow insertion and removal of display boards100in an accessible and convenient fashion. Mobile easel610includes rotatable wheels644on each of four curved legs618, installed by known and conventional arrangements according to any preferred embodiment (e.g. with either all four wheels free to turn or with two straight wheels, etc.).

FIGS. 39 and 40show arrangements for the compliant retaining system according to exemplary embodiments. As shown inFIG. 39, curved grip626installed on upper curved portion624of support frame member620(e.g. rail) of the easel includes fins628(e.g. ribs) that deform when a display board100is press fit into display on the easel (to a shape and extent determined by the position of the display board within the grip) to secure display board100to the easel for working and use (e.g. display, writing, erasing, configuring, transport with a mobile easel, etc.). As shown inFIG. 40, according to an alternative embodiment, a grip peg646is installed at the interference of vertical support frame member620aand horizontal upper cross member622aand horizontal cross member622of the mounting structure (e.g. easel). Grip peg646also includes fins648(e.g. projections, ribs or fingers, etc.) that deform to secure a display board100(shown in phantom lines) to the easel for use; as is evident, fins648are thicker than shown in FIG.39. As will become apparent to those who review this disclosure, a wide variety of compliant materials may be used for the grips, which according to alternative embodiments may be in a variety of shapes and may or may not include deformable fins (e.g. projections, ribs). According to the preferred embodiments, the grips are made of a compliant material that is soft and durable and can be formed by molding, such as an elastomer or plastic. According to any particularly preferred embodiment, the grips include a series of deformable fins and are formed from an elastic material so that each display boards is securely held but may conveniently be removed without damage or marring. The holding force and stiffness provided by the grips may be adjusted by variations in the shape and profile of the grips (e.g. the thickness and spacing of the deformable fins, if fins are employed), as well as the material of construction, location of the grips, orientation of the grips, the spacing distance of the grips, or number of grips (e.g. one or more), etc., according to alternative embodiments.

Referring toFIG. 41, a mounting structure is shown as a stand650according to an exemplary embodiment. Stand650is formed as a unitary structure and is of a generally symmetrical shape. Stand650includes a slot652for holding a display board100and four legs654arranged to provide a relatively stable base for display of display board100. According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the stand is formed from a molded plastic material (e.g. blow molded). As shown, stand650has a shape that allows for stacking of one or more additional stands on top of each other.

Referring toFIGS. 42 through 45, a mounting structure is shown as an articulating frame system according to exemplary embodiments. As shown inFIGS. 42 through 45, the articulating frame system can be configured to include a rack of a type shown inFIG. 17to allow for display and use of display boards. (According to alternative embodiments, display boards may interface with the articulating frame system by any of a wide variety of other mounting structures and methods, including those shown in other Figs.) Referring toFIG. 44, an articulating frame670includes a pair of vertical frame members672and674coupled by a horizontal upper cross member676, a horizontal intermediate cross member678, and a horizontal lower cross member680(e.g. each member preferably being a rectangular steel tube welded to form the structure). A base panel682or cladding is fastened (e.g. by threaded fasteners684) to intermediate and lower cross members678and680. Vertical frame member672is provided with a pair of hinge blocks684(upper) and686(lower), each configured to receive a hinge pin688(upper) and690(lower). Upper hinge pin688is secured to a wall692(or other structure) by a mounting bracket694; lower hinge pin is secured to (or stands on) a floor696on a circular foot698; upper and lower hinge pins share a pivotal axis700. Vertical frame member674includes a wheel assembly702at its base. Wheel assembly702includes a frame704and an axle706retaining a wheel708for rotation; wheel assembly702is mounted to base of vertical frame member674by threaded fasteners710(e.g. screws). A rack220is mounted to vertical frame member674(and alternatively also to vertical frame member672) so that display boards can be installed for use and display. Two handles712are also mounted to vertical frame member674. Articulating frame670is configured for pivotal movement (e.g. with respect to wall692or another structure) about axis700rolling along wheel708in a range of motion between a fully stowed position and a fully deployed position. Referring toFIGS. 42,43and45, an articulating frame system720including two articulating frames722and724is shown. Each articulating frame722and724includes two racks220aand220b. Each of racks220aand220bincludes four display boards100. InFIG. 42, each articulating frame722and724is stowed, but display boards100are deployed. InFIG. 43, each articulating frame722and724is deployed, but display boards100are stowed. InFIG. 45, each articulating frame722and724is stowed in a space frame726(shown in phantom lines), but certain display boards100aand100bare partially deployed. As will become evident to those who review this disclosure, a wide variety of configurations are possible for the articulating frame system, employing variations of size, shape, orientation, arrangement, mounting structures, etc., as well as variations in the deployment of display boards.

It is important to note that the use of the term “display board” is not meant as a term of limitation, insofar as any “board” or like structure having a decorative or functional use or application is intended to be within the scope of the term. The use of the term “display board” is intended as a convenient reference for any such “board” or structure, which may also be viewed synonymously with the term “work board” or other like terms. It is also important to note that the use of the term “information” is meant to cover any use of any type of media that can be associated with a display board (or work board).

Although only a few exemplary embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible in the exemplary embodiments (such as variations in sizes, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, or use of materials) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the invention. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the preferred embodiments without departing from the spirit of the invention as expressed in the appended claims.