Abstract:
An end frame assembly, for use with a display unit including a post having at least one aperture formed through each of two opposing surfaces of the post, including an end frame, a first stationary plate coupled to the end frame, a second stationary plate coupled to the end frame and spaced from and extending substantially coplanarly with respect to the first stationary plate, and a first slide plate disposed over the first stationary plate and including a first tab capable of fitting within one of the apertures formed through one of the two opposing surfaces of the post. The first slide plate is selectively coupled with the first stationary plate via at least a first fastener, and the first fastener is selectively releasable to selectively allow linear movement of the first slide plate and selectively securable to hold the first slide plate in a substantially static position.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Various configurations of display structures are used for displaying different types and styles of products and product packages, for example, in a retail setting. One type of display structure includes a rack used for hanging clothing products disposed on a hanger and/or a shelf for supporting products thereon. Another type of display structure includes a rack, a panel attached to the rack, and support rods coupled to the panel. Small items, such as accessories, jewelry, gift cards, and computer products, are attached to backers having openings for hanging the product from the support rods. 
     To attract customer attention, in some cases, the display structures include signage or other conspicuous indicia. In addition to attracting attention, still other display structures promote customer interest by including aesthetically attractive components or interactive displays, such as rotating panels or racks or digital interactive displays. Because space is often limited in retail stores, display space is at a premium. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     One embodiment of the present invention relates to an end frame assembly for use with a display unit including a post having at least one aperture formed through each of two opposing surfaces of the post. The connection assembly comprises an end frame having a lower support member, a first stationary plate coupled to the lower support member, a second stationary plate coupled to the lower support member and spaced from and extending substantially coplanarly with respect to the first stationary plate, and a first slide plate disposed over the first stationary plate and including a first tab configured to fit within one of the at least one aperture formed through one of the two opposing surfaces of the post. The first slide plate is selectively coupled with the first stationary plate via at least a first fastener, and the first fastener is selectively releasable to selectively allow linear movement of the first slide plate relative to the first stationary plate and the post and selectively securable to hold the first slide plate in a substantially static position relative to the first stationary plate. The end frame assembly further includes a second slide plate disposed over the second stationary plate and includes a second tab configured to fit within one of the at least one aperture formed through the other one of the two opposing surfaces of the post. Each of the first tab and the second tab is positioned on an end of a corresponding one of the first slide plate and the second slide plate nearest the other of the first slide plate and the second slide plate. Other assemblies, frames, and methods are also disclosed. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Embodiments of the invention will be described with respect to the figures, in which like reference numerals denote like elements, and in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a front, perspective view illustration of a display structure, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 2  is a front view illustration of the display structure of  FIG. 1 , according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 3  is a rear view illustration of the display structure of  FIG. 1 , according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 4  is a right side view illustration of the display structure of  FIG. 1 , according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 5  is a left side view illustration of the display structure of  FIG. 1 , according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 6  is a partially exploded, perspective view illustration of the display structure of  FIG. 1 , according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 7  is an exploded view illustration of the vertical display unit of  FIG. 5 , according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 8  is a top view of the display structure of  FIG. 1 , according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 9  is a front, perspective view illustration of an end frame assembly, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 10  is a rear, perspective view illustration of an end frame assembly, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 11  is a close up, perspective view of a portion of a lower connector assembly coupled to an end frame assembly, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 12  is an exploded, perspective view illustration of the end frame assembly of  FIG. 9 , according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective view illustration of an upper connection member, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 14  is a perspective view illustration of a stationary plate of a lower connection mechanism, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 15  is a perspective view illustration of a slide plate of a lower connection mechanism, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 16  is a flow diagram of a method of assembling a display structure, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 17  is a rear perspective view of an end frame assembly, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 18  is a front, perspective view of a vertical display unit, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 19  is a rear, perspective view of an end frame assembly, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 20  is a rear, perspective view of an end frame assembly, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 21  is a front, perspective view illustration of the vertical display unit coupled to a supplemental side frame assembly, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 22  is a partially exploded, perspective view of the vertical display unit coupled to a supplemental side frame assembly of  FIG. 21 , according to one embodiment of the present invention 
         FIG. 23  is a front view of a front frame, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 24  is a front view of an intermediate panel, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 25  is a rear view of a back frame, according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 26  is a front, perspective view illustration of the vertical display structure of  FIG. 1  including a plurality of products hung from the vertical display structure. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The following detailed description of the invention provides examples and is not intended to limit the invention or the application and uses of the invention. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any theory presented in the preceding background of the invention or the following detailed description of the invention. 
     Embodiments of the present invention are configured to provide end frames that increase display area and/or improve the visual appearance of conventional display structures. The versatile end frames are hung onto the ends of a display structure unit and can be used with variously configured display structure units. In this regard, the end frames can include connection mechanisms that attach to display structures of varying sizes and/or configurations. 
     According to one embodiment, the connection mechanisms include two horizontal plates that extend axially from a bottom edge of the end frame. The plates are spaced apart from each other to provide a space for receiving a width of a vertical beam of the display structure. In some embodiments, the distance between the horizontal plates is wider than the width of the vertical beam. Corresponding slide plates are disposed over each horizontal plate. Thus, when one of the slide plates is slid along the length of a horizontal plate toward the vertical beam, the slide plate engages a vertically extending surface of the vertical beam. Likewise, when the other slide plate is slid along the length of the other horizontal plate toward the vertical beam, the other slide plate engages an opposite vertically extending surface of the vertical beam. 
     With reference now to  FIGS. 1-6 , a display structure  10  is illustrated. Display structure  10  includes a vertical display unit  12  and an end frame assembly  14  (otherwise referred to as auxiliary display assembly). In one embodiment, vertical display unit  12  supports attachment features for displaying product  13  (see  FIG. 26 ) and/or vertical display unit  12  provides compartments for storing product. According to an embodiment, vertical display unit  12  includes a support frame  16 , one or more boards  18 ,  20 , and  22 , and one or more bunkers  24  and  26 . In one example, bunkers  24  and  26  are eliminated from vertical display unit  12 . 
     Referring to the embodiments illustrated in  FIGS. 1-6 , support frame  16  supports support boards  18 ,  20 , and  22  and bunkers  24  and  26 . In this regard, support frame  16  includes a pair of end posts or substantially vertically extending supports  30  and  32  and a pair of substantially horizontal beams or substantially horizontally extending supports  34  and  36 . In one example, each component is separately formed, and then the components are assembled and fastened together to form support frame  16 . Alternatively, end posts  30  and  32  and support bars  38  and  40  are formed as a single component, and substantially horizontal beams  34  and  36  are separately attached so that one or more of support boards  18 ,  20 , and  22  can be selectively inserted between or removed from end posts  30  and  32  as will be further described below. The components of support frame  16  are made of materials, such as metal, plastic, wood, or other materials suitable for providing a robust structure. 
     End posts  30  and  32  are configured to be substantially similar to each other. Each of end posts  30  and  32  includes a base support section  42  or  44  and a substantially vertical section generally referred to through this specification as a vertical section  46  or  48 , according to an embodiment. Base support sections  42  and  44  define a base for supporting display structure  10  on a floor or other suitable supporting surface. In an embodiment, base support sections  42  and  44  include corresponding horizontal bars  50  and  52  and support legs  54 ,  56 ,  58 , and  60 . Horizontal bars  50  and  52  are substantially equal in length and configuration and are substantially horizontally oriented. Support legs  54 ,  56 ,  58 , and  60  are configured to elevate vertical sections  46  and  48  off a floor or other suitable supporting surface to provide additional height to display structure  10 . Support legs  54  and  56  extend from respective ends of horizontal bar  50 , and support legs  58  and  60  extend from respective ends of horizontal bar  52 . Support legs  54  and  56  and horizontal bar  50  are formed from a single piece of material, and support legs  58  and  60  and horizontal bar  52  are formed from a single piece of material, in an embodiment. In another embodiment, support legs  54  and  56  and support legs  58  and  60  are separately formed from horizontal bars  50  and  52 . For example, support legs  54  and  56  and/or support legs  58  and  60  are formed from wood, and horizontal bars  50  and  52  are formed from metal. 
     In one embodiment, display structure  10  includes support bars  38  and  40  to provide additional stability to display structure  10  and in one instance, connector legs  62 ,  64 ,  66 , and  68  serve to facilitate coupling of support bars  38  and  40  to end posts  30  and  32 . Connector legs  62  and  64  extend substantially orthogonally relative to horizontal bar  50  and corresponding support legs  54  and  56 , and connector legs  66  and  68  extend substantially orthogonally relative to horizontal bar  52  and corresponding support legs  58  and  60 . Connector legs  62 ,  64 ,  66 , and  68  each include mating mechanisms for mating with corresponding ends of support bars  38  and  40  to secure support bar  38  between connector legs  62  and  66  and support bar  40  between connector legs  64  and  68 . For example, the mating mechanisms comprise extensions (not shown) and openings, where the extensions protrude from one or both of connector legs  62  and  66 , one or both of connector legs  62  and  68 , or support bars  38  and  40 . The openings for receiving the protrusions are formed on the other of the connector legs  62  and  66 , connector legs  64  and  68 , or support bars  38  and  40 . When the mating mechanisms are mated with each other, fasteners (e.g., fasteners  70 ) can be inserted through openings (e.g., threaded openings  71 ) formed on one or both of connector legs  62 ,  64 ,  66 , and  68  or support bars  38  and  40 . Although connector legs  62 ,  64 ,  66 , and  68  and support bars  38  and  40  form a substantially rectangular base, fewer or more legs and/or support bars are included in other embodiments to define another shape of the base. 
     Vertical sections  46  and  48  are substantially equal in length and are configured to be substantially identical to each other. In one embodiment, to maintain one or more of boards  18 ,  20 , and  22  between vertical sections  46  and  48 , vertical section  46  extends substantially perpendicularly relative to horizontal bar  50  from a position that is substantially similar to a position on horizontal bar  52  directly adjacent vertical section  48 . In one example, vertical section  46  extends from a position equidistant from ends of horizontal bar  50 , and similarly, vertical section  48  extends from a position on horizontal bar  52  that is equidistant from the ends thereof. Alternatively, vertical section  46  is disposed closer to one end of horizontal bar  50  than another end, and vertical section  48  is disposed at a substantially similar position on horizontal bar  52 . 
     With additional reference to  FIGS. 7 and 8 , vertical sections  46  and  48  have interior-facing surfaces  72  and  74  and exterior-facing surface  73  and  75 . Interior-facing surfaces  72  and  74  each includes one or more tracks  76 . Each of tracks  76  is elongated and suitably configured for maintaining at least a portion of a side edge of one or more of boards  18 ,  20 , and  22 . In an embodiment, vertical sections  46  and  48  each include three tracks  76 , respectively. Tracks  76  of each vertical section  46  and  48  extend along substantially an entire length of the corresponding vertical section  46  or  48 , in an embodiment. In another embodiment, one or more of tracks  76  is comprised of sections that are staggered along the lengths of vertical sections  46  and/or  48 . The one or more tracks  76  are grooves formed in interior-facing surfaces  72  and/or  74 , in one example. Alternatively, walls extending from interior-facing surfaces  72  and/or  74  define tracks  76 . Although vertical sections  46  and  48  are primarily described as including three substantially parallel tracks  76  each, other embodiments of vertical sections  46  and  48  may include fewer or more tracks. A total number of tracks on each of vertical sections  46  and  48  depends on a desired number of boards (e.g., boards  18 ,  20 , and  22 ) to be disposed therebetween at one time. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 6 and 7 , to maintain the one or more boards  18 ,  20 , and  22  at desired vertical positions, substantially horizontal beams  34  and  36  extend between vertical sections  46  and  48 . In one embodiment, horizontal support  34  is a bottom horizontal support and extends substantially horizontally between bottom ends of vertical sections  46  and  48 , and horizontal support  36  is a top horizontal support and extends substantially horizontally between top ends of vertical sections  46  and  48 . Substantially horizontal beams  34  and  36  are fastened to vertical sections  46  and  48  by fastening mechanisms  88 ,  90 ,  92 , and  94 , in an embodiment. For example, fastening mechanisms  88  and  90  for horizontal support  34  comprise protrusions extending from respective ends of horizontal support  34  that are inserted into slits  96  (slit on vertical section  46  not shown). In another example, fastening mechanisms  92  and  94  comprise fasteners (e.g., screws, bolts, and the like) that are inserted through openings formed on respective ends of horizontal support  36  and openings formed on vertical sections  46  and  48 . Although fastening mechanisms  88  and  90  and fastening mechanisms  92  and  94  are illustrated as having different configurations, both can have similar configurations in other embodiments. 
     Each of substantially horizontal beams  34  and  36  includes one or more tracks  100  (only one track  100  of horizontal support  36  is visible) with each track  100  being configured to retain a bottom or topside edge of one or more boards  18 ,  20 , and  22 . Each of the one or more tracks  100  is an elongated groove formed in a corresponding one of substantially horizontal beams  34  and  36 , in an embodiment. In another embodiment, one or more tracks  100  are formed between walls that extend from one of substantially horizontal beams  34  and  36  a distance sufficient for retaining edges of one or more boards  18 ,  20 , and  22 . In an embodiment, three substantially parallel tracks  100  are included on horizontal support  34 , and three substantially parallel tracks  100  (only one track  100  of horizontal support  36  is visible) are included on horizontal support  36 . More or fewer tracks are included on one or both of substantially horizontal beams  34  and  36 , depending on, for example, a total number of boards (e.g., boards  18 ,  20 , and  22 ) to be held in position. 
     One or more of tracks  100  extends substantially along an entire length of the corresponding horizontal support  34  or  36 , in an embodiment. In accordance with another embodiment, one or more of tracks  100  comprises track sections that are staggered along a length of the corresponding horizontal support  34  or  36 . The track sections are uniform or non-uniform in length. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 5-8 , support boards  18 ,  20 , and  22  are configured to provide a surface for hanging product and/or to provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance for display structure  10 . In an embodiment, three support boards  18 ,  20 , and  22  are included as part of display structure  10  and are made up of two outer boards or slotted boards  18  and  22  and an intermediate board  20  disposed therebetween. 
     Support boards  18 ,  20 , and  22  have substantially similar dimensions. According to one embodiment, outer board  18  includes a plurality of rows of slots  112  and a peripheral edge portion or outer periphery  114  without slots. Each row includes an array of slots  112  arranged end to end with each other. Although each slot  112  has an elongated rectangular shape in the illustrations, slots  112  have different configurations, such as round, ovular, or the like, in other embodiments. Additionally, although slots  112  are arranged in rows in the Figures, other embodiments include slots arranged in concentric circles or other patterns. In still other embodiments, the slots  112  are dispersed on outer board  18 . Outer board  18  is formed from a material having suitable structural integrity for suspending attachments and/or product  13  ( FIG. 23 ) therefrom, such as an acrylic material, plastic, wood, metal, and the like. Although not shown, in one embodiment, outer board  22  is formed substantially similar to outer board  18 , and thus, also includes slots  112  and peripheral edge portion  114  without slots. 
     To improve the appearance of display structure  10 , in one embodiment, intermediate board  20  is configured to prevent light from shining through slots  112  of outer board  18  onto outer board  22 . Intermediate board  20  is a solid panel without openings, in an embodiment. In another embodiment in which support boards  18 ,  20 , and  22  are not intended to be used for product display, one or both of outer boards  18  and  22  comprises a solid panel, and/or one or more of support boards  18 ,  20 , and  22  is omitted. In one example, all of support boards  18 ,  20 , and  22  are omitted. 
     With additional reference to  FIG. 26 , in one embodiment, display structure  10  includes bunkers  24  and  26  to provide a storage area for product  13  and/or to provide an additional surface for displaying product  13 . Bunkers  24  and  26  are disposed on support frame  16 . In an embodiment, bunker or front bunker  24  is disposed on a first or front half of support frame  16 , bunker or back bunker  26  is disposed on a second or back half of support frame  16 , and bunkers  24  and  26  are separated from each other by boards  18 ,  20 , and  22 . Front bunker  24  may include one or more pull out drawers  116 . Pull out drawer  116  includes a locking mechanism  118  for securing product within drawer  116 . Although not shown, back bunker  26  includes a pull out drawer in another embodiment. In alternate embodiments, one or both bunkers  24  or  26  are omitted. 
     Returning to  FIGS. 1-8 , end frame assembly  14  is coupled to support frame  12 . Although end frame assembly  14  is shown as being coupled to vertical section  46 , end frame assembly  14  is alternatively or additionally coupled to vertical section  48 . In this regard, vertical section  46  includes opposing vertically extending side surfaces  111  and  113  (facing the same direction as, that is, extending substantially parallel to, the major faces of boards  18  and  22 ) that include arrays of slits or openings  119  and  121 , respectively. As illustrated, slits  119  and  121  are rectangular and arranged end to end or side by side. In another embodiment, slits  119  and/or  121  are circular, ovular, or another shape. Vertical section  48  includes opposing vertically extending side surfaces  115  and  117  (facing in the same direction as, that is, extending substantially parallel to, the major faces of boards  18  and  22 ) that include arrays of slits or openings  123  and  125 , respectively. Vertically extending side surfaces  115  and  117  and array of slits  123  and  125  are substantially identical to vertically extending side surface  11  and  113  and arrays of slits  119  and  121 , respectively. 
     In one example, each of vertical sections  46  and  48  includes a top end  127  and  129 , respectively, each including fastener openings  131  and  133  formed therethrough. Top ends  127  and  129  extend substantially perpendicularly to vertically extending side surfaces  111  and  113  and  115  and  117 , respectively. Although two fastener openings  131  and  133  are shown on each top end  127  and  129 , more or fewer alternatively are included. 
     Turning to  FIGS. 9-12 , end frame assembly  14  includes a vertically oriented frame or frame section  120 , an upper connection member or top coupling mechanism  122 , a lower connector assembly  124 , and a display panel  126 . Frame section  120  forms a closed-loop frame shape that, in one embodiment, includes a top segment or wall  128 , a bottom segment or wall  130  (otherwise referred to as a lower support member of frame section  120 ), and first and second side segments or walls  132  and  134  extending between the top and bottom walls  128  and  130 . Frame section  120  is formed from a single unitary component, or each of walls  128 ,  130 ,  132 , and  134  are formed separately and coupled together. Although, as illustrated, walls  128 ,  130 ,  132 , and  134  collectively define a substantially rectangular shape, other configurations are contemplated alternatively. Frame section  120  comprises metal, wood, acrylic, plastic, or another material suitable for maintaining structural integrity to withstand wear and tear. 
     Walls  128 ,  130 ,  132 , and  134  are configured to maintain display panel  126  in frame section  120 . For example, bottom and sidewalls  130 ,  132 , and  134  include tracks  140 ,  142 , and  144  ( FIG. 12 ) configured to retain edges of display panel  126 . Tracks  140 ,  142 , and  144  are each a channel or a groove formed in corresponding ones of walls  130 ,  132 , and  134 . Tracks  140 ,  142 , and  144  are formed between walls that extend a distance from one of bottom and sidewalls  130 ,  132 , and  134  sufficient for retaining edges of display panel  126 , which is substantially planar. More or fewer tracks are included on one or more of walls  130 ,  132 , and  134 , depending on a total number of panels (e.g., display panels  126  or other panels) to be held in position. 
     One or more of tracks  140 ,  142 , and  144  extends substantially an entire length of corresponding walls  130 ,  132 , and  134 . Alternatively, one or more of tracks  140 ,  142 , and  144  comprises track sections that are staggered along a length of the corresponding walls  130 ,  132 , and  134 . The track sections  142  and  144  of walls  132  and  134  are uniform or non-uniform in length. 
     To retain display panel  126  along a top edge thereof, top wall  128  has a longitudinal slot  146  extending along a majority of its length. In an embodiment, longitudinal slot  146  has a length and width that is slightly larger than a width and thickness of display panel  126  so that display panel  126  can be inserted through longitudinal slot  146  to tracks  142  and  146  during assembly of end frame assembly  14 . Although portions of top wall  128  adjacent sidewalls  132  and  134  (i.e., corners) are curved and longitudinal slot  146  extends long the curved portions of top wall  128 , corners are blunt in alternative embodiments. 
     Upper connection member  122  couples top wall  128  to top end  127  (or  129  in other embodiments) of vertical support  46  (or  48  in other embodiments). With additional reference to  FIG. 13 , in an embodiment, upper connection member  122  includes a primary or horizontal plate  148  having an attachment flange  150 , apertures  152 , and side overhangs  154  and  156 . Horizontal plate  148  is substantially rectangular and is slightly larger in dimension than corresponding top end  127  or  129  of vertical support  46  or  48 . Alternatively, horizontal plate  148  is ovular, circular, or has a polygonal or other shape having a width, length, or diameter that is greater than at least one width, length, or diameter of top end  127  or  129  of vertical support  46  or  48 . Apertures  152  are formed through horizontal plate  148 . In an embodiment, two apertures  152  are included on horizontal plate  148  at locations that can be aligned with fastener openings  131  or  133  on top end  127  or  129  of vertical support  46  or  48 , when horizontal plate  148  is disposed over top end  127  or  129 . In another example, more or fewer apertures  152  are included on horizontal plate  148 . 
     Attachment flange  150  couples upper connection member  122  to vertical frame section  120  and has a curved section  158  that extends along and initiates at a longitudinal edge  160  of horizontal plate  148  to attach a rear projection  162  thereto. Rear projection  162  is lower than horizontal plate  148  and is configured to be sufficiently wide for welding to top wall  128  or otherwise coupling thereto. In another embodiment, attachment flange  150  is planar and omits curved section  158 . 
     Side overhangs  154  and  156  extend from lateral side edges of horizontal plate  148  substantially orthogonal to rear projection  162 . In an embodiment, side overhangs  154  and  156  are suitably spaced apart such that top end  127  or  129  of vertical support  46  or  48  fits snugly therebetween. For example, top end  127  or  129  is friction fit between side overhangs  154  and  156 . To insure that horizontal plate  148  is fixedly attached to vertical section  46 , fasteners  138  ( FIG. 12 ) are inserted into apertures  152  and corresponding fastener openings  131  or  133  to couple horizontal plate  148  to top end  127  or  129 , in the illustrated embodiments. 
     In another embodiment of upper connection member  122 , horizontal plate  148  is replaced with a spring plate that is contracted and inserted into a cavity (not shown) formed in top end  127  or  129  of vertical support. Alternatively, upper connection member  122  includes a different coupling mechanism for attaching to top end  127  or  129  of vertical support  46  or  48 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 11 ,  14 , and  15 , lower connection assembly  124  includes two horizontal or stationary plates  164  and  166 , two slide plates  168  and  170 , and fasteners  172 . Stationary plates  164  and  166  extend from bottom wall  130  of frame section  120  and are spaced a sufficient distance apart such that each plate  164  and  166  can be disposed on opposite sides of vertical section  46 . In an embodiment, the distance between stationary plates  164  and  166  forms a gap or opening between plates  164  and  166  and is substantially equal to a distance between side surfaces  111  and  113  of vertical section  46  or side surfaces  115  and  117  of vertical section  48 . With additional reference to  FIG. 14 , each stationary plate  164  and  166  is substantially rectangular. Although illustrated in the Figures as having a longer length than width and being substantially similar in dimensions, stationary plates  164  and/or  166  have different configurations in other embodiments. Fastener openings  174  and  176  are formed through each stationary plate  164  and  166 . In an embodiment, each stationary plate  164  and  166  has more than one fastener opening  174  and  176 , e.g., two fastener openings. Thread or smooth walls define fastener openings  174  and  176 . In accordance with an embodiment, stationary plates  164  and  166  form a horizontal connection member including a connector piece  178  that connects two corners of plates  164  and  166 . In another embodiment, stationary plates  164  and  166  are entirely separate pieces. Although stationary plates  164  and  166  are shown as being substantially planar, they may be curved or otherwise non-planar in other embodiments. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 10-12 , slide plates  168  and  170  are disposed over stationary plates  164  and  166 . Slide plates  168  and  170  are configured substantially similarly to each other. For simplicity, reference to slide plate  168  will be used for description, however it will be understood that slide plate  170  includes substantially identical features. With additional reference to  FIG. 15 , slide plate  168  is substantially rectangular and includes a slot  180 , a tab  182 , and a curved flange  184 . In other embodiments, slide plate  168  is ovular or another shape that is suitable for covering at least a portion of stationary plate  164  or  166  that includes fastening opening  174  or  176 . 
     Slot  180  extends longitudinally substantially along a midsection of slide plate  168 . In an embodiment in which stationary plate  164  or  166  includes two spaced apart fastener openings  174  or  176 , slot  180  extends along a portion of the length of slide plate  168  that is at least as long as a distance between furthest edges of fastener openings  174  or  176 . Additionally or alternatively, slot  180  extends substantially an entire length of slide plate  168 . Although shown as being formed substantially halfway between both longitudinal edges  186  and  188  of slide plate  168 , slot  180  is formed closer to one edge  186  or  188  than to the other in other alternatives. Slot  180  has tapered ends, in an embodiment, to more easily receive one or more fasteners  172  ( FIG. 12 ) for coupling slide plate  168  to stationary plate  164  or  166 . Fasteners  172  each comprise a screw, bolt, or another component capable of mating with a nut, wingnut, and the like, when inserted through slot  180  and fastener openings  174  or  176 . Although two fasteners  172  each are shown for coupling slide plates  168  and  170  to stationary plates  164  and  166 , other embodiments include more fasteners. 
     Tab  182  extends from a lateral edge  192  of slide plate  168 . Tab  182  is configured to be inserted into one of slits  119 ,  121 ,  123 , or  125  on side surfaces  111 ,  113 ,  115 , and  117  of vertical section  46  and/or  48 . In this regard, tab  182  has a width that is equal to or less than width of corresponding one of slits  119 ,  121 ,  123 , or  125 . Tab  182  is tapered, in an embodiment, having a curved edge to form a semicircle. In another embodiment, tab  182  is substantially trapezoidal and has two side edges that angle toward each other to terminate at an insertion edge. Alternatively, lateral edge  192  is tapered or tab  182  has a different shape that is suitable for insertion into a corresponding one of slits  119 ,  121 ,  123 , or  125 . 
     Curved flange  184  is located on an opposite end of slide plate  168  from tab  182  and curves upwardly to provide a grasping surface for a person interacting with slide plate  168  to linearly move slide plate  168  along a length of stationary plate  164  or  166 . Curved flange  184  is disposed substantially perpendicularly relative to slide plate  168 , or curved flange  184  is formed at a non-perpendicular angle relative to slide plate  168 . 
       FIG. 16  illustrates a method  2200  of coupling end frame assembly  120  to display structure  10 . With reference now to  FIG. 7-15 , vertical display unit  12  is assembled, at  2202 , such that exterior-facing surface  73  of vertical section  46  and exterior-facing surface of vertical section  48  are exposed. Additionally, end frame assembly  14  is assembled, at  2204 . 
     Upper connection member  122  is coupled to top end  127  of vertical support  46  or top end  129  of vertical support  48 , at  2206 . In an embodiment, upper connection member  122  is disposed over top end  127  or  129  and positioned such that side overhangs  154  and  156  snugly fit around top end  127  or  129 . Apertures  152  of upper connection member  122  are aligned with fastener openings  131  or  133  and fasteners  138  are inserted through the openings to fasten upper connection member  122  to vertical support  46  or  48 . 
     Then, at  2208 , lower connection assembly  124  is then coupled to one of vertical supports  46  and  48 . Stationary plates  164  and  166  are positioned on opposite sides of vertical support  46  or  48  (whichever vertical support  46  or  48  to which upper connection member  122  is coupled). Slide plates  168  and  170  are disposed over corresponding stationary plates  164  and  166 , respectively, and positioned such that tabs  182  extend toward corresponding vertical support  46  or  48  and slots  180  are disposed over fastener openings  174  or  176  of corresponding stationary plates  164  and  166 . Each slide plate  168  and  170  is adjusted such that tabs  182  are inserted into a slit (e.g., one of slits  119 ,  121 ,  123 , or  125  of corresponding vertical support  46  or  48 ). For example, slide plate  168  is slid across stationary plate  164  toward the other stationary plate  166  until tab  182  of slide plate  168  engages with slit  119  of vertical support  46 , and slide plate  170  is slide across stationary plate  166  until tab  182  toward the other stationary plate  168  until slide plate  170  engages with slit  121  of vertical support  46 . Slide plates  168  and  170  are held in position by coupling fasteners  172  to slots  180  and fastener openings  174  and  176 . In one embodiment, fasteners  172  couple slide plates  168  and  170  to stationary plates  164  and  166 , but are loosened to allow slide plates  168  and  170  to move relative to stationary plates  164  and  166  and to allow easy removal of end frame assembly  14  from display structure  10 . In an embodiment including one or more bunkers  24  or  26 , stationary plate  164  or  166  rests on a top surface of corresponding bunker  24  or  26  to provide stability for frame assembly  14 . In an embodiment in which one or both of bunkers  24  and/or  26  are omitted, stationary plates  164  and/or  166  rest on a top surface of corresponding substantially horizontal beams  50  and/or  52  or other suitable horizontal member to provide additional rotational stability to display unit  12 . 
       FIGS. 17 and 18  illustrate an end frame assembly  1114  including a lower connection assembly  1124  configured according to another embodiment. End frame assembly  1114  includes a vertical frame section  1100 , an upper connection member  1122 , and a display panel  1126  that are substantially similar in configuration to vertical frame section  100 , upper connection member  122 , and display panel  126  except vertical frame section  1110  and display panel  1126  are longer than vertical frame section  100  and display panel  126 . Lower connection assembly  1124  comprises two stationary plates  1164  and  1166 . Stationary plates  1164  and  1166  include horizontal portions  1168  and  1170 , respectively, each extending from a bottom wall  1130  of vertical frame section  1100  and a vertical portions  1172  and  1174 , respectively, each extending substantially perpendicularly from edges corresponding horizontal portions  1168  and  1170  to form L-shaped pieces. 
     End frame assembly  1114 , and in particular, stationary plates  1164  and  1166 , are attached to a display structure  1110  that omits bunkers. For example, display structure  1110  includes a support frame  1116  comprised of components including a pair of end posts or vertically extending supports  1130  and  1132  and a pair of substantially horizontal beams or horizontally extending supports  1134  and  1136 . Substantially horizontal beams  1134  and  1136  are formed substantially similar to substantially horizontal beams  34  and  36  described above. End posts  1130  and  1132  are configured substantially similarly to end posts  30  and  32  and include vertical sections  1146  and  1148  and base sections  1142  and  1144  that are substantially similar to vertical sections  46  and  48  and base sections  42  and  44 , except that, in one embodiment, base sections  1142  and  1144  do not include connector legs. Lower connection assembly  1114  is hooked onto base section  1142  or  1144 . 
       FIGS. 19 and 20  illustrate an end frame assembly  196  for mounting to display structure  10  (in particular, vertical supports  30  and/or  32 ), according to another embodiment. End frame assembly  196  includes a vertically oriented frame section  200 , an upper connection member  202 , a lower connector assembly  204 , a panel  206 , and slats  207 . In one embodiment, upper connection member  202  and lower connector assembly  204  are formed substantially similarly (e.g., identically) to upper connection member  122  and lower connector assembly  124 , respectively. 
     In one example, frame section  200  has a front face  201  and a back face  203  and includes a top wall  208 , bottom wall  210 , and side or vertically extending walls  212  and  214  extending between top and bottom walls  208  and  210 . In accordance with an embodiment, surfaces of top wall  208  and bottom wall  210  forming back face  203  are slightly inset from surfaces of sidewalls  212  and  214  that form back face  203 . 
     Sidewalls  212  and  214  include slits  222  (shown only on sidewall  212 ) arranged in an array along interior-facing surfaces of sidewalls  212  and  214 , in one embodiment of frame section  200 . Slits  222  are rectangular and arranged end to end (as illustrated) or side by side. In another embodiment, slits  222  are circular, ovular, or another shape suitable for receiving an end of one of slats  207 . 
     In one example, slats  207  extend across frame section  200  between sidewalls  212  and  214  and are vertically spaced from one another. Slats  207  are made of wood, metal, laminate, acrylic, or another material, and each includes a main body  223  having ends  224  that are inserted into a selected slit  222  in corresponding sidewall  212  or  214 . Slats  207  are selectively and readily couplable and uncouplable from frame section  200  to vary their positioning relative to each other. In one embodiment, slats  207  have a thickness configured to selectively receive back hook structures on display cards supporting jewelry or similar items for retail sale. Other items offered for retail sale may be hung directly on one or more of slats  207 . 
     Depending on the size and/or shape of slits  222 , ends  224  of slats  207  can be tapered or have another configuration for easy insertion into slit  222 . Slats  207  extend substantially parallel with top wall  208 . Alternatively, to provide visual interest, slats  207  extend across frame section  200  in a non-parallel manner relative to top wall  208 . Although ten total slats  207  are depicted in the  FIGS. 19 and 20 , more or fewer slats are included in other embodiments. In one embodiment, end frame assembly  196  does not include any slats  207 , for example, when a slotted panel or other display structure is mounted on end frame assembly  196 . 
     In one embodiment, panel  206  is positioned and continuously extends between back surfaces of top wall  208  and bottom wall  210  and exterior-facing surfaces of vertical section  46  or  48 . Panel  206  also has longitudinal edges  230  and  231  that are disposed between sidewalls  212  and  214 . In an embodiment, when end frame assembly  196  is coupled to vertical section  46  or  48 , panel  206  is disposed between frame section  200  and vertical section  46  or  48 . Additionally, front surface of panel  206  faces slats  207 . In another embodiment, panel  206  extends downwardly from bottom wall  210 , and portions of panel  206  described previously as extending between top wall  208  and bottom wall  210  are omitted. In one embodiment, to at least partially prevent panel  206  from falling vertically downward relative to bottom wall  210 , panel  206  has a cutout  232  formed in its bottom lateral edge  234  to at least partially surround lower connection assembly  204 . Panel  206  rests over and is supported by lower connection assembly  204 , which prevents panel  206  from moving vertically. In an embodiment of display structure  10  in which bunkers  24  and  27  are included, portions of panel  206  on either side of cutout  232  rest against top surfaces of bunkers  24  and  27  to provide additional support and rotational stability to panel  206 . 
     In one example, panel  206  is substantially transparent and/or translucent to allow a viewer to see vertical section  46  or  48  when end frame assembly  196  is hung therefrom. In another embodiment, panel  206  is substantially opaque. Panel  206  comprises wood, metal, particleboard, cardboard, and the like. 
     In another embodiment of end frame assembly  196 , a horizontally oriented frame section  250  is included in addition to vertically oriented frame section  200 , as illustrated in  FIG. 20 , to provide additional visual depth and/or interest to display structure  10  and, in one example, to provide a bumper to deflect consumers and their shopping carts from inadvertently contacting end frame assembly  106  or the retail items displayed thereon. Horizontally oriented frame section  250  extends substantially perpendicularly from sidewalls  212  and  214  to form a shelf. For example, horizontally oriented frame section  250  is substantially U-shaped and includes a first side arm  252  extending from sidewall  212 , a second side arm  254  extending from sidewall  214 , and an extension arm  256  extending side arm  252  to side arm  254 . 
     In some instances, a retailer may choose to quickly change an appearance of display structure  10 . Thus, rather than disassembling end frame assembly  196 , retailer may choose to place a supplemental frame assembly  300  over end frame assembly  196 . Turning now to  FIGS. 21-26 , supplemental frame assembly  300  includes a front frame  302 , an intermediate panel  304 , and a back frame  306 . 
     Referring primarily to  FIGS. 21-25 , front frame  302  is configured to provide an aesthetically pleasing or finished appearance to supplemental frame assembly  300  and has a top wall  308 , bottom wall  310 , and two sidewalls  312  and  314  extending therebetween. The edges of the walls  308 ,  310 ,  312 , and  314  define an interior frame edge  316  and an exterior frame edge  318 . Interior frame edge  316  defines an opening  320  to provide access to display structures placed within front frame opening  320  or intermediate panel  304  when front frame  302  is placed thereover. Exterior frame edge  318  defines an outer perimeter that is shaped substantially similarly to the outer perimeter but sized larger than intermediate panel  304 . Accordingly, in one example, front frame  302  and intermediate panel  304  have substantially coterminous perimeters. In an embodiment, front frame  302  has a substantially rectangular shape with curved corners. In other embodiments, front frame  302  has a different perimeter shape than intermediate panel  302 . 
     Front frame  302  has a front or exposed face  322  and a back or non-exposed face  324 . Front face  322  is substantially uniform in color and/or does not include designs imprinted or formed thereon, in an embodiment. Alternatively, front face  322  is used to draw attention to display structure  10  and is multi-colored, has a color that contrasts intermediate panel  304 , and/or includes indicia imprinted thereon. 
     Front frame  302  attaches to fastener openings  326  on intermediate panel  304  via fingers (not shown) that extend from back face  324 . In an embodiment, fingers mate and are friction fit with fastener openings  326  and/or are adhered to intermediate panel  304  after insertion into fastener openings  326 . In other embodiments, front frame  302  and intermediate panel  304  are glued, ultrasonically welded, or otherwise adhered or coupled together. 
     Intermediate panel  304  is maintained between the front frame  302  and the end frame assembly  196  (or vertical section  46  or  48 ) and can be employed to display products on supplemental frame assembly  300 . As noted above, intermediate panel  304  includes fastener openings  326 , which are formed at locations which front frame  302  can cover. In addition to fastener openings  326 , intermediate panel  304  includes a plurality of rows of slots  328 . Slots  328  are employed to receive attachment components (not shown), which are used for hanging product and/or mirrors. Each row includes an array of slots  328  aligned horizontally end to end. In another embodiment, slots  328  are aligned vertically end to end. In still other embodiments, slots  308  are arranged in a different pattern, such as in concentric rings, or in a random pattern. Although slots  328  are illustrated as elongated openings, slots  328  are round or have other shapes in alternative embodiments. In another embodiment, intermediate panel  304  is a solid panel and omits slots. 
     Back frame  306  is configured to temporarily couple supplemental side frame assembly  300  to display structure  10  and extends rearwardly from intermediate panel  304 , in the illustrated embodiments. Alternatively, back frame  306  is coupled directly to front frame  302  and intermediate panel  304  is eliminated. In an embodiment, back frame  306  includes top rails  330  and  332  and side rails  334  and  336 . Top rails  330  and  332  are L-shaped and spaced a distance apart from each other to form a top support member. In an embodiment, each of top rails  330  and  332  includes a first planar portion  338  and  340  extending axially from and substantially perpendicularly relative to intermediate panel  304  and horizontally along a top portion of an outer peripheral section of intermediate panel  304 . First planar portions  338  and  340  each have a width that is substantially equal to a width of top wall  208  of frame section  200 . Second planar portions  342  and  344  extend substantially perpendicular relative to and from an edge of a corresponding first planar portion  338  or  340  so that top rails  330  and  332  can be hung onto top wall  208  of frame section  200 . 
     Side rails  334  and  336  are L-shaped and include first planar portions  346  and  348  and second planar portions  350  and  352 . First planar portions  346  and  348  extend substantially perpendicularly relative to intermediate panel  304  and vertically alongside portions of the outer peripheral section of intermediate panel  304 , and second planar portions  350  and  352  extend substantially perpendicular to and along an edge of corresponding first planar portions  346  and  348 . First planar portions  346  and  348  are sufficiently spaced apart and such that sidewalls  212  and  214  of frame section  200  can be positioned therebetween. Additionally, first planar portions  346  and  348  extend a distance away from intermediate panel  304  that is substantially equal to or larger than a width of corresponding sidewall  212  and  214 . 
     End frame assemblies  14  and  1114  increase display area on display structures. Additionally, in some examples, end frame assemblies provide display structures with eye-catching and/or finished appearances, which may encourage traffic toward certain displayed product. Because lower connection assemblies  124  or  1124  are readily adjustable, end frame assemblies  14  and  1114  are not restricted to coupling to vertical structures of a single, distinct size and/or configuration and can easily be removed or added depending upon the desired end aesthetic appearance of display structure  10 . 
     Although the invention has been described with respect to particular embodiments, such embodiments are meant for illustrative purposes only and should not be considered to limit the invention. Various alternatives and changes will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Other modifications within the scope of the invention and its various embodiments will be apparent to those of ordinary skill.