Abstract:
This embodiment provides for a portable, easily-assembled, modular background set that can be used in television studios, theatre stages, and tradeshow booths, to name a few, and for displays in other settings, such as retail stores, physician&#39;s offices, and the like, that is, wherever information needs to be displayed. According to this embodiment, an apparatus and method for providing said background set or display comprises a plurality of base structures; a plurality of outer and inner collapsible corrugated plasticboard sleeves; a plurality of supporting frames; a hanger system; an elastic cord stabilizing system; and a collapsible backdrop system. These components are assembled from a very compact, collapsed, disassembled state in a quick and easy manner, with no special tools, to create a professional set or display that can be used in a plurality of different venues.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    Not applicable. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0002]    1. Field of Invention 
         [0003]    The present embodiment relates generally to free standing columns, connectors, and backdrops, and methods of use. More particularly, the present embodiment relates to easily-assembled, modular background sets for use in broadcast television, theatre stages, tradeshow booths, and the like, and for displays in other settings, such as retail stores, physician&#39;s offices, and the like, that is, wherever information needs to be displayed. 
         [0004]    2. State of the Art 
         [0005]    The background art is characterized by U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,275,520; 4,561,798; 5,125,205; 5,323,836; 5,439,043; 5,537,766; 5,611,384; 5,826,397; 5,903,993, 6,370,803 B1; 6,643,966 B2; 7,140,307 B1; 7,337,567 B2; and 6,359,218 B1; and U.S. Patent Application Nos. 2003/0046893A1; 2004/0107666A1; 2004/0163778A1; and 2005/0034409A1; the disclosures of which patents and patent application are incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein. 
         [0006]    Non-patent background art is characterized on the following Internet pages: http://www.displayit.com/10-ft-Standard-Curved-Popup-Trade-Show-Display.aspx; http://www.siegeldisplay.com/productdetail.aspx?id=t6005-48237; http://www.affordabledisplays.com/shopexd.asp?id=300; and http://www.affordabledisplays.com/shopdisplayproducts.asp?id=40. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0007]    This embodiment provides for a portable, easily-assembled, modular background set that can be used in television studios, theatre stages, and tradeshow booths, to name a few, and for displays in other settings, such as retail stores, physician&#39;s offices, and the like, that is, wherever information needs to be displayed. According to this embodiment, an apparatus and method for providing said background set or display comprises a plurality of base structures; a plurality of outer and inner collapsible corrugated plasticboard sleeves; a plurality of supporting frames; a hanger system; an elastic cord stabilizing system; and a collapsible backdrop system. These components are assembled from a very compact, collapsed, disassembled state in a quick and easy manner, with no special tools, to create a professional set or display that can be used in a plurality of different venues. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0008]      FIG. 1  shows a perspective view of one embodiment in its assembled state; 
           [0009]      FIG. 2A  is a perspective view of the support base of each column of this embodiment; 
           [0010]      FIG. 2B  is a front elevation view of the support base of this embodiment; 
           [0011]      FIG. 2C  is a back elevation view of the support base of this embodiment; 
           [0012]      FIG. 2D  is a right elevation view of the support base of this embodiment; 
           [0013]      FIG. 2E  is a left elevation view of the support base of this embodiment; 
           [0014]      FIG. 2F  is a top view of the support base of this embodiment; 
           [0015]      FIG. 2G  is a bottom view of the support base of this embodiment; 
           [0016]      FIG. 2H  is a top view of an alternate tension cable connection used to keep the column aligned during assembly; 
           [0017]      FIG. 2I  is a right elevation view of the alternate tension cable connection used to keep the column aligned during assembly; 
           [0018]      FIGS. 2J through 2M  show further alternate embodiments of the support base using an additional alternate tension cable connection; 
           [0019]      FIG. 3  is a perspective view of the base inner sleeve of this embodiment; 
           [0020]      FIGS. 4A ,  4 B,  4 C,  4 D, and  4 E describe the construction of the base inner sleeve and inner column sleeve of this embodiment; 
           [0021]      FIG. 5A  is a top view of the base inner sleeve of this embodiment; 
           [0022]      FIG. 5B  is a left elevation view of the base inner sleeve of this embodiment; 
           [0023]      FIG. 5C  is a right elevation view of the base inner sleeve of this embodiment; 
           [0024]      FIG. 5D  is a front elevation view of the base inner sleeve of this embodiment; 
           [0025]      FIG. 5E  is a back elevation view of the base inner sleeve of this embodiment; 
           [0026]      FIGS. 6A ,  6 B, and  6 C describe the method of collapsing the base inner sleeve, and inner column sleeve, of this embodiment, for storage and transport; 
           [0027]      FIG. 7  is a perspective view of the outer column sleeve of this embodiment; 
           [0028]      FIGS. 8A ,  8 B,  8 C,  8 D, and  8 E describe the construction of the outer column sleeve of this embodiment; 
           [0029]      FIG. 9A  is a top view of the outer column sleeve of this embodiment; 
           [0030]      FIG. 9B  is a left elevation view of the outer column sleeve of this embodiment; 
           [0031]      FIG. 9C  is a right elevation view of the outer column sleeve of this embodiment; 
           [0032]      FIG. 9D  is a front elevation view of the outer column sleeve of this embodiment; 
           [0033]      FIG. 9E  is a back elevation view of the outer column sleeve of this embodiment; 
           [0034]      FIGS. 10A ,  10 B, and  10 C describe the method of collapsing the outer column sleeve of this embodiment, for storage and transport; 
           [0035]      FIG. 11  is a perspective view of the inner column sleeve of this embodiment; 
           [0036]      FIG. 12A  is a top view of the inner column sleeve of this embodiment; 
           [0037]      FIG. 12B  is a left elevation view of the inner column sleeve of this embodiment; 
           [0038]      FIG. 12C  is a right elevation view of the inner column sleeve of this embodiment; 
           [0039]      FIG. 12D  is a front elevation view of the inner column sleeve of this embodiment; 
           [0040]      FIG. 12E  is a back elevation view of the inner column sleeve of this embodiment; 
           [0041]      FIGS. 13A and 13B  show the inner column sleeve support frame, and method of use, in this embodiment; 
           [0042]      FIGS. 13C and 13D  show the optional outer column support bracket, and method of use, in this embodiment; 
           [0043]      FIGS. 13E through 13H  show optional inner column sleeve support frames in this embodiment, offering different shapes, featuring shelves and ledges; 
           [0044]      FIGS. 14A and 14B  show an inner column sleeve support rod, and method of use, in this embodiment; 
           [0045]      FIGS. 15A and 15B  show an alternate embodiment of an inner column sleeve support rod, and method of use, in this embodiment; 
           [0046]      FIGS. 16A and 16B  show yet another embodiment of an inner column sleeve support rod, and method of use, in this embodiment; 
           [0047]      FIG. 17  shows a plurality of optional outer column sleeve alignment rods, and method of use, in this embodiment; 
           [0048]      FIG. 18  shows an alternate type of optional outer column sleeve alignment rods, and method of use, in this embodiment; 
           [0049]      FIG. 19  shows the flute-covering material installed on the outer column sleeve in this embodiment; 
           [0050]      FIG. 20  shows a backdrop rod hanger in this embodiment; 
           [0051]      FIG. 21  shows an alternate type of a backdrop rod hanger that may be used in this embodiment; 
           [0052]      FIG. 22  shows a column top cap, and method of use, in this embodiment; 
           [0053]      FIG. 23A  is a left elevation view of the column top cap ready for installation onto an outer column sleeve in this embodiment; 
           [0054]      FIG. 23B  is a right elevation view of the column top cap ready for installation onto an outer column sleeve in this embodiment; 
           [0055]      FIG. 23C  is a front elevation view of the column top cap ready for installation onto an outer column sleeve in this embodiment; 
           [0056]      FIG. 23D  is a back elevation view of the column top cap ready for installation onto an outer column sleeve in this embodiment; 
           [0057]      FIG. 24A  is a top view of the column top cap in this embodiment; 
           [0058]      FIG. 24B  is a bottom view of the column top cap in this embodiment; 
           [0059]      FIG. 25A  is a perspective view of the column top cap with a set of backdrop rod hangers installed in the rear position of this embodiment; 
           [0060]      FIG. 25B  is a perspective view of the column top cap with a plurality of alternate types of backdrop rod hangers installed in the side position of this embodiment; 
           [0061]      FIG. 25C  is a perspective view of the column top cap with a plurality of backdrop rod hangers installed in an off-angle position of this embodiment; 
           [0062]      FIG. 25D  is a perspective view of the column top cap with an alternate tension cable connection used to optionally keep the column aligned during assembly; 
           [0063]      FIG. 26A  shows a perspective view and several elevation views of an alternate column top cap of this embodiment; 
           [0064]      FIG. 26B  shows a perspective view of the alternate column top cap ready for installation onto an outer column sleeve of this embodiment, and a plurality of backdrop rod hangers installed in the rear flutes of an outer column sleeve in this embodiment; 
           [0065]      FIG. 26C  shows a perspective view of the alternate column top cap installed onto an outer column sleeve of this embodiment, and a plurality of alternate backdrop rod hangers installed in the rear flutes of an outer column sleeve in this embodiment; 
           [0066]      FIG. 26D  shows a perspective view of an additional column top cap ready for installation onto an outer column sleeve of this embodiment, and a plurality of backdrop rod hangers installed in rear apertures of the additional column top cap in this embodiment; 
           [0067]      FIG. 26E  shows a perspective view of an additional column top cap installed in an outer column sleeve of this embodiment, and a plurality of alternate backdrop rod hangers installed in rear apertures of the additional column top cap in this embodiment; 
           [0068]      FIG. 27A  shows a side view of a tension cable optionally used in this embodiment; 
           [0069]      FIG. 27B  shows a side view of an alternate tension cable optionally used in this embodiment; 
           [0070]      FIG. 27C  shows a side view of an additional embodiment of a tension cable optionally used in this embodiment; 
           [0071]      FIG. 27D  shows a side view of an optional adjustable tension cable optionally used in this embodiment; 
           [0072]      FIG. 28A  shows a front and side elevation view of an adjustable backdrop rod in this embodiment; 
           [0073]      FIG. 28B  shows a front and side elevation view of an alternate embodiment of an adjustable backdrop rod in this embodiment; 
           [0074]      FIG. 28C  shows a front and side elevation view of a fixed backdrop rod in this embodiment; 
           [0075]      FIG. 28D  shows a front and side elevation view of an alternate embodiment of a fixed backdrop rod in this embodiment; 
           [0076]      FIG. 29  describes the installation of the base inner sleeve of a column in this embodiment; 
           [0077]      FIG. 30  describes the attachment of the base inner sleeve to the support base of a column in this embodiment; 
           [0078]      FIG. 31  describes the installation of the first outer column sleeve of a column in this embodiment; 
           [0079]      FIG. 32  describes the final position of the first outer column sleeve in this embodiment; 
           [0080]      FIG. 33  describes the installation of an inner column sleeve within an outer column sleeve in this embodiment; 
           [0081]      FIG. 34  describes the installation of an inner sleeve support frame, and an optional outer column support bracket, in this embodiment; 
           [0082]      FIG. 35  describes the installation of a plurality of optional outer sleeve alignment rods, an inner sleeve support frame, and a second outer sleeve column in this embodiment; 
           [0083]      FIG. 36A  describes the installation of a column top cap, with installed backdrop rod hangers, onto an outer column sleeve in this embodiment; 
           [0084]      FIG. 36B  describes the installation of an alternate column cap top, along with a plurality of backdrop rod hangers positioned to install into an outer column sleeve in this embodiment; 
           [0085]      FIG. 37  shows the final step of an assembled column using a combination of a plurality of outer column sleeves; a plurality of optional outer sleeve alignment rods; a plurality of optional outer column support brackets; a plurality of inner sleeve support frames; a plurality of inner column sleeves; and a column top cap, with an optional tension cable and a plurality of backdrop rod hangers, in this embodiment; 
           [0086]      FIG. 38  shows the final step of an assembled column using a combination of a plurality of outer column sleeves; a plurality of optional outer sleeve alignment rods; a plurality of optional outer column support brackets; a plurality of inner sleeve support frames; a plurality of inner column sleeves; an alternate column top cap with an optional tension cable; and a final outer column sleeve with a plurality of installed backdrop rod hangers in this embodiment; 
           [0087]      FIG. 39  shows a perspective view of the assembly of all components of one column in this embodiment; 
           [0088]      FIG. 40  shows an optional tension cable attached to a column top cap and a support base during the assembly of this embodiment; 
           [0089]      FIG. 41A  shows a perspective view of an assembled column in this embodiment; 
           [0090]      FIG. 41B  shows a perspective view of an assembled column with an outer frame shelf, and an additional column top cap, in this embodiment; 
           [0091]      FIG. 42  shows the detailed attachment of a plurality of optional tension cable embodiments to a column top cap, and a support base, in this embodiment; 
           [0092]      FIG. 43  shows the detailed attachment of an optional tension cable to the alternate column top cap in this embodiment; 
           [0093]      FIG. 44  shows one embodiment of a backdrop assembled with a backdrop upper support rod, a backdrop, and a backdrop lower support rod in this embodiment; 
           [0094]      FIG. 45  shows a perspective view of the backdrop assembly installed between two assembled columns using a plurality of column top caps, fitted with a plurality of backdrop rod hangers, in this embodiment; 
           [0095]      FIG. 46  shows a perspective view of the backdrop assembly installed between two assembled columns using a plurality of alternate column top caps, and a plurality of outer column sleeves fitted with a plurality of backdrop rod hangers, in this embodiment; 
           [0096]      FIG. 47  shows a top view of an alternate modular background set configuration with wing-backdrops configured at 45-degree angles in an alternate embodiment; 
           [0097]      FIG. 48  shows a top view of another modular background set configuration with wing-backdrops configured at 90-degree angles in an additional embodiment; 
           [0098]      FIG. 49  shows the assembly of a lentil, and method of attachment of the lentil to two columns in yet another embodiment; and 
           [0099]      FIG. 50  shows the final assembly of the lentil embodiment. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     One Embodiment—FIGS.  1 - 27 , and FIG.  39   
       [0100]    With reference now to the drawings,  FIG. 1  through  FIG. 28  (A, B, C, and D), and  FIG. 44 , illustrate the components of one embodiment. As shown in  FIG. 1 , in this embodiment, a modular background set  1  consists of a plurality of completed columns  3  and a backdrop assembly  4 . 
         [0101]    As seen in  FIG. 2  through  FIG. 27  (A, B, C, and D), column  3  is comprised of a support base assembly  5 , a base inner sleeve  30 , a plurality of outer column sleeves  50 , a plurality of inner column sleeves  70 , a plurality of inner sleeve support frames  80 , a plurality of curved backdrop rod hangers  107 , a column top cap  112 , and a tension cable  130 . 
         [0102]    Turning now to  FIGS. 2A through 2G , support base assembly  5  is comprised of a support base  6 , a column wall attachment assembly  7 , and a plurality of casters  20 . For this embodiment, support base  6  and attachment assembly  7  are preferably made from a cellular (closed cell) utility polymer sheet material, such as King StarLite® XL, available from Piedmont Plastics in Memphis, Tenn., using conventional machining methods, such as cutting or milling. King StarLite® XL is available in a variety of thicknesses and colors. For this embodiment Utility Black StarLite® XL was used with various thicknesses. Alternatively, support base  6  and attachment assembly  7  may be made from other durable materials, such as other plastics, wood, metal, or other materials, using alternative manufacturing processes such as injection molding, wire electrical discharge machining (wire EDM); chemical etching machining; abrasive water jet machining; or laser machining, e.g., Stereolithography (SLA), Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), or laser cutting; to name a few. 
         [0103]    In this embodiment support base  6  measures 17.125-inches wide by 15.125-inches deep with a thickness of 0.5-inches. As shown in  FIGS. 2F and 2G , support base  6  includes a plurality of cutout slots  17  intended to reduce the weight of support base assembly  5  to enhance its portability, although cutout slots  17  may be omitted without disrupting the functionality. Support base assembly  5  may be further described by two subsections: a footpad section  16 , which is also used as a counterweight, and a column support section  18 , which provides support for the assembled column components. In this embodiment footpad section  16  is shown with a rounded shape  21  to: facilitate further weight reduction; enhance the portability; and provide an ergonomic appearance; although footpad section  16  could be machined to other shapes without disrupting the functionality. Column support section  18  further includes a lower tension cable slot  27 , used to keep the column aligned during assembly (described in a later section of the Specification). In an alternate embodiment, as shown in  FIGS. 2H and 2I , column support section  18  includes a lower tension hook  25 , which engages the top surface of column support section  18 , and is subsequently used to keep the column aligned during assembly (described in a later section of the Specification). Lower tension hook  25  preferably has a ⅜-inch eye hook opening with a 2-inch long, #8 wood screw shaft, and is available from Aubuchon Hardware, Putnam, Conn., P/N Model #130-08915, although other eye sizes and shaft lengths will suffice. 
         [0104]    As shown in  FIGS. 2B through 2G , wall attachment assembly  7  is comprised of a plurality of attachment supports: a front attachment wall  8 ; a back attachment wall  10 ; a right attachment wall  12 ; and a left attachment wall  14 . In the current embodiment attachment walls  8 ,  10 ,  12  and  14  measure 0.625-inches thick and 1.5-inches high. Front attachment wall  8  measures 15.6-inches long; back attachment wall  10  measures 14.35-inches long; right attachment wall  12  measures 5.0-inches long; and left attachment wall  14  measures 6.3-inches long. Note that other thicknesses, heights and lengths could be used. Attachment walls  8 ,  10 ,  12  and  14  attach to column support section  18  using a plurality of attachment wall fasteners  24 . In the current embodiment, attachment wall fasteners  24  are 1-inch long, #6 wood screws, P/N 87906137, available from MSC Industrial Supply, located in Melville, N.Y., which are inserted through a plurality of attachment wall fastener apertures  15  and subsequently engage attachment walls  8 ,  10 ,  12  and  14  to securely fasten them to column support section  18 , although attachment walls  8 ,  10 ,  12  and  14  could be attached to column support section  18  using a variety of other attachment means, such as adhesive, nails, etc. Attachment walls  8 ,  10 ,  12  and  14  also have a plurality of support base fastener apertures  22 , with diameters measuring 0.2-inches in the current embodiment, although support base fastener apertures  22  may be threaded to accept machine threaded screws or bolts, such as a #6-32 size. Support base fastener apertures  22  are used in the assembly of this embodiment&#39;s column, to be detailed later in the Specification. As seen in  FIG. 2F , a support base attachment wall gap  19  also provides a space needed in the assembly of this embodiment&#39;s column, as detailed later in the Specification. 
         [0105]    Lastly, casters  20  are attached to the bottom surface of support base  6 . In the current embodiment, three 2.25-inch diameter swivel casters, such as a Nylon hooded plate, twin wheel caster, P/N 24215T46, available from McMaster-Carr Supply Company, located in Atlanta, Ga., are attached to support base  6  using a plurality of caster fasteners  26  ( FIG. 2E ), such as a 0.625-inch inch long, #8 wood screws, P/N 87906269, available from MSC Industrial Supply, although other fasteners may be used to attach casters  20  to support base  6 , such as bolt-nut combinations, rivets, etc. Additionally, pop-out, socket-mounted casters may be used whereby the wheel can be removed when not in use, further adding to the portability of this embodiment. Alternately, base  5  may not need to be on casters, and thus other components, such as Easy-Slide Glides, P/N 2551T36 from McMaster Carr, of Atlanta, Ga., may be used instead, allowing the completed column  3  to be moved by sliding it on a surface. 
         [0106]    Finally,  FIGS. 2J through 2M  show alternate shapes of support base assembly  5 , which enhance this embodiment&#39;s ergonomic appearance, without disrupting the functionality. That is, support base assembly  5  can be designed in a variety of configurations to meet special requirements of different installation environments. 
         [0107]    Turning now to  FIGS. 3 ;  4 A to  4 E;  5 A to  5 E; and  6 A to  6 C; base inner sleeve  30  is preferably made from corrugated plastic sheets, commonly referred to as Coroplast®, available from Coroplast, Inc. of Dallas, Tex., although other types of corrugated material may be used, such as corrugated fiberboard, corrugated cardboard, etc. Coroplast® is available in a variety of lengths, widths, thicknesses and colors. For this embodiment base inner sleeve  30  is constructed from 5/32-inch (4-mm) thick Coroplast® in a JM Gray Utility Gray color, although other thicknesses and colors may be used. Turning now to  FIG. 3 , in the present embodiment, base inner sleeve  30  measures 15.9-inches wide by 6.625 inches deep by 15-inches high (outside dimensions). As shown in  FIGS. 4A through 4E , and  FIGS. 5A through 5E , base inner sleeve  30  is formed from an initial corrugated plastic sheet  32  with dimensions of 47-inches (L) by 15-inches (W) by 5/32-inch thick. A back surface  35 , with an outside dimension of 15.9 inches, is formed by implementing a first inner sleeve bend  34 . First inner sleeve bend  34  is facilitated by scoring/cutting the inside surface of back surface  35  at the position of the bend. A left surface  37 , with an outside dimension of 6.625 inches, is formed by implementing a second inner sleeve bend  36 . Second inner sleeve bend  36  is facilitated by scoring/cutting the inside surface of left surface  37  at the position of the bend. A front surface  39 , with an outside dimension of 15.9 inches, is formed by implementing a third inner sleeve bend  38 . Third inner sleeve bend  38  is facilitated by scoring/cutting the inside surface of front surface  39  at the position of the bend. As shown in  FIG. 4D , an adhesive  40 , such as a 3M® double-sided foam tape, P/N 00021200232053, available from MSC Industrial Supply, with a 1-inch width, is applied along the total height of corrugated plastic sheet  32  to a tab attachment area  41 . Adhesive  40  can also be of another type, such as Velcro® strips, epoxy, etc. A right surface  43 , with an outside dimension of 6.625 inches, is formed by implementing a fourth inner sleeve bend  42 . Fourth inner sleeve bend  42  is facilitated by scoring/cutting the inside surface of right surface  43  at the position of the bend. Fourth inner sleeve bend  42  also places tab attachment area  41 , with a width of 1.95 inches, in a position to complete the formation of base inner sleeve  30  by pressing the inside of back surface  35  against adhesive  40  (see  FIG. 4E ). Once base inner sleeve  30  is constructed, a first instruction label  160 , with an adhesive backing, is attached to the center of the inside surface of back surface  35  approximately 1-inch from the top of base inner sleeve  30 . First instruction label  160  may contain several types of information including installation instructions, part numbers, etc. Turning now to  FIGS. 5A through 5E , in the present embodiment, base inner sleeve  30  includes a plurality of base inner sleeve attachment apertures  44 , measuring 0.25″ in diameter in the current embodiment, although other diameters would suffice, which are used with support base fastener apertures  22  in the assembly of this embodiment&#39;s column  3 . Optionally, a rubber grommet, such as a McMaster Carr Part #9307K38, with a 0.25-inch ID, a 0.625-inch OD, and a panel thickness of 3/16-inches, can be installed in apertures  44  to add support during assembly and disassembly. Additionally, base inner sleeve  30  further includes an access aperture  49 , measuring 5-inches in width by 5-inches in height, which is located in the center of back surface  35 , and 1-inch from the bottom of base inner sleeve  30 . Access aperture  49  is used during the assembly of column  3 , as described later in the Specification.  FIGS. 6A ,  6 B and  6 C demonstrate the collapsibility, and thus portability, of this embodiment of base inner sleeve  30 . In  FIG. 6A , base inner sleeve  30  is shown in its expanded state, and ready for assembly. As shown in  FIG. 6B , base inner sleeve  30  is collapsed by apply a plurality of collapsing forces  45 , which in turn cause front surface  39  and right surface  43  to align in a first collapsing direction  46 , and left surface  37  and back surface  35  to align in a second collapsing direction  48 , resulting in a collapsed, two surface configuration as shown in  FIG. 6C . In this embodiment, the 6.625 inch deep base inner sleeve  30  is reduced to about 0.5-inches depth after it is collapsed, making for very easy storage and transportation in a small box, suitcase, or similar enclosure. 
         [0108]    Turning now to  FIGS. 7 ;  8 A to  8 E;  9 A to  9 E; and  10 A to  10 C; outer column sleeve  50  is preferably made from corrugated plastic sheets, commonly referred to as Coroplast®, although other types of corrugated material may be used, such as corrugated fiberboard, corrugated cardboard, etc. For this embodiment outer column sleeve  50  is constructed from 5/32-inch (4-mm) thick Coroplast® in a JM Utility Gray color, although other thicknesses and colors may be used. Turning now to  FIG. 7 , in the present embodiment, outer column sleeve  50  measures 16.5-inches wide by 7.0 inches deep by 31.5-inches high (outside dimensions). As shown in  FIGS. 8A through 8E , and  FIGS. 9A through 9E , outer column sleeve  50  is formed from an outer corrugated plastic sheet  52  with dimensions of 48-inches (L) by 31.5-inches (W) by 5/32-inch thick. An outer sleeve back surface  55 , measuring 16.5 inches, is formed by implementing a first outer sleeve bend  54 . First outer sleeve bend  54  is facilitated by scoring/cutting the outside surface of outer sleeve back surface  55  at the position of the bend. Once first outer sleeve bend  54  is made, an inner sleeve support shelf  64 , measuring 1-inch high by 6.5-inches long by 0.50-inches thick, and comprised of a self-adhesive, extruded polystyrene foam laminated between clay-coated paper liners (often called foam core board, P/N PSFB-700, available from FoamBoardSource.com) is centered and attached approximately 5-inches from the top of the inside of outer sleeve back surface  55 . Alternatively, a foam core board without self-adhesive could be used by applying a double-sided adhesive tape, epoxy, or some other type of attachment means. Additionally, other lightweight, but sturdy, materials could be used for inner sleeve support shelf  64 . An outer sleeve left surface  57 , measuring 7.0 inches, is formed by implementing a second outer sleeve bend  56 . Second outer sleeve bend  56  is facilitated by scoring/cutting the outside surface of outer sleeve left surface  57  at the position of the bend. An outer sleeve front surface  59 , measuring 16.5 inches, is formed by implementing a third outer sleeve bend  58 . Third outer sleeve bend  58  is facilitated by scoring/cutting the outside surface of outer sleeve front surface  59  at the position of the bend. Once third outer sleeve bend  58  is made, a second inner sleeve support shelf  64  is centered and attached approximately 5-inches from the top of the inside of outer sleeve front surface  59 . As shown in  FIG. 8D , adhesive  40  is applied along the total height of outer corrugated plastic sheet  52  to an outer sleeve tab attachment area  61 . An outer sleeve right surface  63 , measuring 7.0 inches, is formed by implementing a fourth outer sleeve bend  62 . Fourth outer sleeve bend  62  is facilitated by scoring/cutting the outside surface of outer sleeve right surface  63  at the position of the bend. Fourth outer sleeve bend  62  also places outer sleeve tab attachment area  61 , with a width of 1.0 inch, in a position to complete the formation of outer column sleeve  50  by pressing outer sleeve back surface  55  against adhesive  40 , as shown in  FIG. 8E . Turning now to  FIGS. 9A to 9E , once outer column sleeve  50  is constructed, a second instruction label  170 , with an adhesive backing, is attached to the center of the inside surface of outer sleeve back surface  55  approximately 1-inch from the top of outer column sleeve  50 , and just above inner sleeve support shelf  64 . Second instruction label  170  may contain several types of information including installation instructions, part numbers, etc. Additionally, outer column sleeve  50  further includes an outer sleeve access aperture  66 , measuring 5-inches in width by 5-inches in height, which is located in the center of outer sleeve back surface  55 , and 1-inch from the bottom of outer column sleeve  50 . Outer sleeve access aperture  66  is used during the assembly of column  3 , as described later in the Specification.  FIGS. 10A ,  10 B and  10 C demonstrate the collapsibility, and thus portability, of this embodiment&#39;s outer column sleeve  50 . In  FIG. 10A , outer column sleeve  50  is shown in its expanded state, and ready for assembly. As shown in  FIG. 10B , outer column sleeve  50  is collapsed by applying collapsing forces  45 , which in turn cause outer sleeve left surface  57  and outer sleeve front surface  59  to align in second collapsing direction  48 , and outer sleeve right surface  63  and outer sleeve back surface  55  to align in first collapsing direction  46 , resulting in a collapsed, two surface configuration as shown in  FIG. 10C . In this embodiment, the 7.0-inch deep outer column sleeve  50  is reduced to about 1.5-inches depth (depends on the depth of inner sleeve support shelf  64 ) after it is collapsed, making for very easy storage and transportation in a small box, suitcase, or similar enclosure. In the current embodiment, outer column sleeve  50  displays a gray color inherent to base corrugated plastic sheet  52 , however, outer column sleeve  50  may also display images, such as company logos, custom scenes, or text, implemented via a decal or screen printing applied to corrugated plastic sheet  52 . Likewise, corrugated plastic sheet  52  may be covered with wall covering material, such as Medium Oak Natural Brown faux wood grain vinyl wall covering, P/N WWX405, available from Design Your Wall, Inc., of Van Nuys, Calif., causing outer column sleeve  50  to resemble wood, although many other wall covering patterns, such as faux stone or brick, or laminate, could be used. That is, outer column sleeve  50  is capable of providing many variations of visually appealing columns suited for a variety of settings. 
         [0109]    Turning now to  FIGS. 11 , and  12 A through  12 E, inner column sleeve  70  is preferably made from corrugated plastic sheets, commonly referred to as Coroplast®, although other types of corrugated material may be used, such as corrugated fiberboard, corrugated cardboard, etc. Coroplast® is available in a variety of lengths, widths, thicknesses and colors. For this embodiment inner column sleeve  70  is constructed from 5/32-inch (4-mm) thick Coroplast® in a JM Gray Utility Gray color, although other thicknesses and colors may be used. Turning now to  FIG. 11 , in the present embodiment, inner column sleeve  70  measures 15.9-inches wide by 6.625 inches deep by 15-inches high (outside dimensions). As shown in  FIGS. 12A through 12E , inner column sleeve  70  is formed in the same manner as base inner sleeve  30  above, using the same material (corrugated plastic sheet  32 ), except that a third instruction label  174  is attached, as opposed to first instruction label  160 . Third instruction label  174  may contain several types of information including installation instructions, part numbers, etc. Inner column sleeve  70  can be collapsed in the same manner as described for base inner sleeve  30  above, resulting in the same compact size for storage and transportation. 
         [0110]    Turning now to  FIGS. 13A ,  13 B,  13 C and  13 D, inner sleeve support frame  80 , which keeps outer column sleeve  50 , base inner sleeve  30 , and inner column sleeve  70  corners more square, is preferably made from a closed cell polymerized vinyl chloride (PVC) material, such as Sintra®, which is lightweight with a high-stiffness; is available in a variety of thicknesses and colors; and can be cut, milled, routed or drilled to form many shapes. Note that other stiff, lightweight materials could be used, such as cellular utility polymer sheet material (e.g., King StarLite® XL); acetal plastics (e.g., Delrin®); and Polyamide (Nylon); to name a few. For this embodiment inner sleeve support frame  80  is constructed from ½-inch (13-mm) thick Sintra® in a black color, although other thicknesses and colors may be used. In the present embodiment, inner sleeve support frame  80  measures 16.9-inches wide by 7.625 inches deep by ½-inches high (outside dimensions), with an internal cutout  81  measuring 16.0-inches wide by 6.75 inches deep, allowing it to fit around inner column sleeve  70  in an installation direction  84 , as seen in  FIGS. 13B and 13D , thus keeping it more square. Inner sleeve support frame  80  optionally includes a plurality of alignment dowel apertures  82 , which may optionally be used during the assembly of column  3  (described later in the Specification). To add optional support for outer column sleeve  50  during assembly (described later in the Specification), an outer column support bracket  85 , preferably made from polymer sheet material (e.g., King StarLite® XL), although other materials, such as other plastics, aluminum, or wood could be used, and measuring 4-inches wide by 4-inches high by 0.1-inches thick in the current embodiment, may be attached to each shorter side of inner sleeve support frame  80 , either by a plurality of bracket attachment fasteners  86  (such as a #6-32, by ½-inch long machine screw, available from MSC Industrial) engaging a plurality of threaded support bracket attachment apertures  89 , or by an adhesive. Outer column support bracket  85  further includes a plurality of threaded support bracket apertures  87  which accept a plurality of outer column sleeve fasteners  88  and a plurality of washers  167  (used in the assembly of column  3  described later in the Specification). Additionally, as shown in  FIGS. 13E through 13H , inner sleeve support frame  80  may be made in different shapes to add further functionality to this embodiment. A plurality of alternate inner sleeve support frames  74 ,  75 ,  76  and  77  are shown with a plurality of various support frame shelves  78 . Support frame shelves  78  add additional surface area for placing supplementary items used in tradeshows, broadcast television studios, etc., such as brochures, display monitors, and speakers, to name a few. 
         [0111]    Alternatively, base inner sleeve  30  and inner column sleeve  70  (and thus outer column sleeve  50 ) may be kept more square by other types of structures, as shown in  FIGS. 14A and 14B ;  15 A and  15 B; and  16 A and  16 B.  FIGS. 14A and 14B  illustrate one approach using a single support rod  92 . In the current embodiment, alternate single support rod  92  is made from a 19.3-inch long, 3/16-inch diameter 5052/H32 aluminum rod, available from Alloy Products Division of G.M.F. Industries, Inc. in Florida. Single support rod  92  is further formed by bending a plurality of one-inch long insert segments  93  at both ends of single support rod  92 . As shown in  FIG. 14B , insert segments  93  are inserted into a plurality of corrugated plastic sheet flutes  90  located at diagonally-opposite corners of base inner sleeve  30  (at a distance of 17.3-inches).  FIGS. 15A and 15B  describe another alternate approach using a diagonal cross support rod  94 . In the current embodiment alternate diagonal cross support rod  94  is formed by joining two single support rods  92  in such a manner as to create a diagonal configuration. Single support rods  92  are preferably joined at a joint  95  by a welding method, although other methods for joining metals may be used, such as Araldite® 2021 epoxy, pop rivets, etc. Alternate diagonal cross support rod  94  is then inserted into a plurality of corrugated plastic sheet flutes  90  located at diagonally-opposite corners of base inner sleeve  30 . Alternately, single support rods  92  do not have to be joined at joint  95 , that is, one single support rod  92  can be inserted first, followed by a second single support rod  92  as shown.  FIGS. 16A and 16B  describe yet another alternate approach using an orthogonal cross support rod  96 . In the current embodiment alternate orthogonal cross support rod  96  is formed by joining two single rods in such a manner as to create an orthogonal configuration. A first support rod  98  is preferably made from a 17.9-inch long, 3/16-inch diameter 5052/H32 aluminum rod, available from Alloy Products Division of G.M.F. Industries, Inc. in Florida. First support rod  98  is further formed by bending a plurality of one-inch long orthogonal insert segments  97  at both ends of first support rod  98 . A second support rod  99  is preferably made from a 8.625-inch long, 3/16-inch diameter 5052/H32 aluminum rod, available from Alloy Products Division of G.M.F. Industries, Inc. in Florida. Second support rod  99  is further formed by bending a plurality of one-inch long orthogonal insert segments  97  at both ends of second support rod  99 . As seen in  FIG. 16A , alternate orthogonal cross support rod  96  is formed by joining second support rod  99  under first support rod  98  at joint  95 , at a 90-degree angle, preferably by a welding method, although other methods for joining metals may be used, such as Araldite® 2021 epoxy, pop rivets, etc. Alternate orthogonal cross support rod  96  is then inserted into a plurality of corrugated plastic sheet flutes  90  located at orthogonal positions in inner column sleeve  70  as seen in  FIG. 16B . 
         [0112]    Turning now to  FIG. 17 , a circular outer sleeve alignment rod  100 , which may optionally be used to align outer column sleeves  50  during assembly, is preferably made from a lightweight, but stiff plastic rod, such as Nylon 6/6, available from MSC Industrial, MSC P/N: 63393342, although other materials could be used, such as Delrin®, Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), aluminum, etc. In the current embodiment circular outer sleeve alignment rod  100  is preferably 5-inches long with a 3/16-inch diameter.  FIG. 18  describes a rectangular outer sleeve alignment rod  104 , which is an additional element for aligning outer column sleeves  50  during assembly. Rectangular outer sleeve alignment rod  104  is preferably made from a lightweight, but stiff plastic bar, such as Nylon 6/6, available from Small Parts Inc., Miami Lakes, Fla., P/N: U-SRN-0187, although other materials could used, such as Delrin®, Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), aluminum, etc. In the current embodiment rectangular outer sleeve alignment rod  104  is preferably 5-inches long with a 3/16-inch width by 3/16-inch depth. Note that other shapes, such as hexagonal, could be used for the alignment rods. 
         [0113]    Turning now to  FIG. 19 , an optional flute covering  106  is shown covering a plurality of corrugated plastic sheet flutes  90 . Flute covering  106  provides visual aesthetics by hiding corrugated plastic sheet flutes  90  from sight. In this embodiment, flute covering  106  is preferably made from a strong, tough, cotton cloth pressure sensitive tape, often termed gaffer&#39;s tape, available from Identi-Tape, Inc. in Boulder, Colo., P/N: g.5gy, although other tapes or coverings could be used. In the current embodiment, flute covering  106  is preferably ½-inch wide, in a Gray color. 
         [0114]    Turning now to  FIG. 20 , a side view of curved backdrop rod hanger  107  is shown. A plurality of curved backdrop rod hangers  107  are used during the assembly process to support backdrop assembly  4 . In the current embodiment curved backdrop rod hanger  107  is preferably formed from a ⅛-inch diameter, 6.5-inch long type 316 stainless steel rod material, available from Small Parts Inc., Miami Lakes, Fla., P/N: U-ZRXX-2-6, although other materials could used, such as other low-carbon steel materials, brass, etc. Curved backdrop rod hanger  107  is further formed by bending the 6.5-inch rod to form a circular backdrop rod opening  109 , which is a 1.25-inch diameter “C” shape opening, and a straight shaft  110 , measuring 3.25-inches, for insertion into one of a plurality of corrugated plastic sheet flutes  90 .  FIG. 21  shows an alternate rectangular backdrop rod hanger  108  is preferably formed from a 6.5-inch long, ⅛-inch by ⅛-inch, type 316 stainless steel bar material, available from Small Parts Inc., Miami Lakes, Fla., P/N: U-ZSXX-2-6, although other materials could used, such as other low-carbon steel materials, brass, etc. Rectangular backdrop rod hanger  108  is further formed by bending the 6.5-inch rod to form a rectangular backdrop rod opening  111 , measuring 1.0-inch (high) by 1.25-inches (width), which resembles a rectangular opening, and straight shaft  110 , measuring 3.25-inches, for insertion into one of a plurality of corrugated plastic sheet flutes  90 . Alternatively, curved backdrop rod hanger  107  and rectangular backdrop rod hanger  108  could be formed from other techniques, such as metal injection molding (MIM). 
         [0115]    Turning now to  FIGS. 22 ;  23 A through  23 D;  24 A and  24 B; and  25 A through  25 D, column top cap  112 , which offers support for curved backdrop rod hanger  107  (or rectangular backdrop rod hanger  108 ), and allows for various multi-column configurations (seen later in the Specification), is comprised of two components: a column top outer member  113  and a column top inner member  115 . Column top outer member  113  is preferably made from a cellular utility polymer sheet material, such as King StarLite® XL, available from Piedmont Plastics in Memphis, Tenn., using conventional machining methods, such as cutting or milling. King StarLite® XL is available in a variety of thicknesses and colors. For this embodiment Utility Black StarLite® XL was used. Alternatively, column top outer member  113  may be made from other durable materials, such as other plastics, wood, metal, or other materials, using alternative manufacturing processes such as injection molding, wire electrical discharge machining (wire EDM); chemical etching machining; abrasive water jet machining; or laser machining, e.g., Stereolithography (SLA), Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), or laser cutting; to name a few. In this embodiment column top outer member  113  in general measures 16.5-inches wide by 12-inches deep with a thickness of 0.5-inches. As shown in  FIG. 22 , column top outer member  113  includes a plurality of outer member slots  125 , each measuring 6.9-inches wide by 4.6 inches deep, intended to reduce the weight of column top cap  112  in order to enhance its portability; an upper tension cable slot  127 , used to keep the column aligned during assembly (described in a later section of the Specification); and an outer member grip slot  126 , intended to reduce the weight of column top outer member  113 , and to facilitate the use of a column top cap handle  118  by allowing the user&#39;s fingers to grip handle  118  to manipulate column  3 . As seen in  FIGS. 24A and 24B , column top outer member  113  is further machined with a top cap angle  119 , set to 45-degrees in the present embodiment, to facilitate the use of additional columns placed at 45-degree angles (additional columns will be discussed later in the Specification), although top cap angle  119  could be machined to other angles to form different background configurations. Column top outer member  113  further contains a plurality of backdrop rod hanger apertures  114  to receive curved backdrop rod hangers  107 , and a plurality of outer member lintel attachment apertures  116  to facilitate the optional attachment of a lintel  200  (as presented later in the Specification). 
         [0116]    As shown in  FIGS. 23A through 23D , and  24 B, column top inner member  115  is preferably made from a closed cell polymerized vinyl chloride (PVC) material, such as Sintra®, which is lightweight with a high-stiffness; is available in a variety of thicknesses and colors; and can be cut, milled, routed or drilled to form many shapes. Note that other stiff, lightweight materials could be used, such as cellular utility polymer sheet material (e.g., King StarLite® XL); acetal plastics (e.g., Delrin®); and Polyamide (Nylon); to name a few. For this embodiment column top inner member  115  is constructed from ½-inch (13-mm) thick, adhesive-backed Sintra® in a black color, although other thicknesses and colors may be used. In the present embodiment, column top inner member  115  in general measures 16.0-inches wide by 6.5 inches by ½-inch high (outside dimensions), allowing it to fit within outer column sleeve  50  as seen in  FIGS. 23A through 23D . As seen in  FIGS. 24A and 24B , column top inner member  115  further has a plurality of inner member slots  124  measuring 6.9-inches wide by 4.6 inches deep, which align with outer member slots  125 , and are intended to reduce the weight of column top cap  112 . Column top inner member  115  further contains a plurality of inner member backdrop rod hanger apertures  121 , which align with backdrop rod hanger apertures  114 . Column top inner member  115  further contains a plurality of inner member lintel attachment apertures  117 , which align with outer member lintel attachment apertures  116 , to facilitate the optional attachment of lintel  200  (as seen later in the Specification). Column top cap  112  is formed by attaching adhesive-backed column top inner member  115  to the bottom surface of column top outer member  113 , taking care to align outer member lintel attachment apertures  116  with inner member lintel attachment apertures  117 , backdrop rod hanger apertures  114  with inner member backdrop rod hanger apertures  121 , and outer member slots  125  to inner member slots  124 . Alternately, column top inner member  115  may be attached to column top outer member  113  by other fastening methods, including epoxy, screws, etc. 
         [0117]      FIGS. 25A through 25C , describe the installation locations of curved backdrop rod hangers  107 , or rectangular backdrop rod hangers  108 , or other hanger types. Depending on modular background set  1  design, hangers may be placed on column top cap  112  in various backdrop rod hanger apertures  114 , to form several different backdrop configurations.  FIG. 25A  shows the rear mounting position.  FIG. 25B  shows the side mounting position (using alternate rectangular backdrop rod hangers  108 ).  FIG. 25C  shows the mounting position of curved backdrop rod hangers  107  for forming the non-orthogonal wing configuration. 
         [0118]      FIG. 25D  describes an alternate embodiment of column top cap  112 , wherein column top cap  112  includes an upper tension hook  128 , which engages the bottom surface of column top cap  112  by screwing upper tension hook  128  into the bottom surface of column top cap  112 . Upper tension hook  128  is subsequently used to keep the column aligned during assembly (described in a later section of the Specification). Upper tension hook  128  preferably has a ⅜-inch eye hook opening with a 2-inch, #8 wood screw shaft, and is available from Aubuchon Hardware, Putnam, Conn., P/N Model #130-08915, although other eye sizes and shaft lengths will suffice. 
         [0119]      FIGS. 26A through 26C  describe a second column top cap  129 . Second column top cap  129  is preferably made from corrugated plastic sheets, commonly referred to as Coroplast®, available from Coroplast, Inc. of Dallas, Tex., although other types of corrugated material may be used, such as corrugated fiberboard, corrugated cardboard, etc. Coroplast® is available in a variety of lengths, widths, thicknesses and colors. For this embodiment second column top cap  129  is constructed from 5/32-inch (4-mm) thick Coroplast® in a JM Gray Utility Gray color, and measures 16.0-inches wide by 6.5 inches deep, although other thicknesses and colors may be used. Second column top cap  129  further contains a column top cable aperture  190 , measuring ¼-inch in diameter, which is centered in second column top cap  129 . When installed, second column top cap  129  rests on a plurality of support shelves  64 , which have been attached to the inner surfaces of a final outer column sleeves  50  approximately 0.25-inches from the top of outer column sleeve  50 . Further, in this alternate embodiment, curved backdrop rod hangers  107 , or rectangular backdrop rod hangers  108 , are inserted directly into corrugated plastic sheet flutes  90  in outer column sleeves  50 , as shown in  FIGS. 26B and 26C . 
         [0120]      FIGS. 26D and 26E  show a third column top cap  156 . Third column top cap  156  is comprised of two components: a third column top cap outer member  159  and a plurality of third column top support walls  158 . Third column top cap  156  is preferably made from a closed cell polymerized vinyl chloride (PVC) material, such as Sintra®, (Utility Black StarLite® XL is used for this embodiment), which is lightweight with a high-stiffness; is available in a variety of thicknesses and colors; and can be cut, milled, routed or drilled to form many shapes. Note that other stiff, lightweight materials could be used, such as cellular utility polymer sheet material (e.g., King StarLite® XL); acetal plastics (e.g., Delrin®); and Polyamide (Nylon); to name a few. Third column top cap outer member  159  also contains an upper tension cable slot  127 , used to keep the column aligned during assembly (described in a later section of the Specification), and a plurality of backdrop rod hanger apertures  114  used to accept curved backdrop rod hanger  107 , or rectangular backdrop rod hanger  108 , or some other type of backdrop rod hanger device. Third column top support walls  158  measure 16-inches long by 2-inches deep by 0.5-inches wide and may attach to third column top cap outer member  159  using a variety of fastening methods, including epoxy, screws, etc. Third column top support walls  158  are positioned on third column top cap outer member  159  such that third column top cap  156  can frictionally fit within outer column sleeve  50  (see  FIG. 26E ). 
         [0121]      FIGS. 27A through 27D  show a number of embodiments of tension cables.  FIG. 27A  shows tension cable  130 , which consists of an elastic cable  139  and a set of endpieces  131 . In one embodiment, elastic cable  139  is 3/16-inch in diameter, 7-feet in length, and composed of one or more elastic strands forming a core, covered in a woven nylon or cotton sheath, and is available from htbbungeecords.com. In one embodiment, endpiece  131  is made from polymer sheet material (e.g., King StarLite® XL), although other plastics, aluminum, wood, or other materials could be used, and measures 1-inch wide by 1-inch long by 0.25-inches thick, with a 0.25-inch diameter hole centered in the 1-inch by 1-inch material, in the current embodiment.  FIG. 27B  shows an alternate tension cable  132  which consists of elastic cable  139  and a set of alternate endpieces  133 . In one embodiment, alternate endpiece  133  is made from a rubber material, with a 0.8-inch diameter top tapering to a 0.6-inch diameter bottom, with a 0.2-inch diameter hole, centered at the top and bottom of alternate endpiece  133 , and continuing through alternate endpiece  133  from top to bottom. Alternate endpiece  133  can be obtained from MSC Industrial, P/N C-2686. Alternate endpiece  133  can also be constructed from plastic, aluminum, wood, or other materials. Additionally, alternate endpiece  133  could be a rubber or plastic washer or grommet. That is, alternate endpiece  133  can be made from a variety of materials in a variety of shapes.  FIG. 27C  shows an additional tension cable  134 , which consists of elastic cable  139  and a set of additional endpieces  135 . Additional endpiece  135  is preferably a hook that attaches to elastic cable  139 , and is available from www.htbbungeecords.com, P/N Cord Hook J Style 3/16. Alternately, additional tension cable  134  can be purchased already assembled from www.htbbungeecords.com, P/N 3/16″ CJH-7′ (B).  FIG. 27D  shows an adjustable tension cable  136 , which consists of elastic cable  139 , additional endpieces  135 , and a tension cable adjuster  137 , available from MSC Industrial, P/N 05140-8. Further, tension cables could be constructed from a combination of an elastic cable, a fixed cable, such as a rope material or metal, and a set of endpieces selected from above. Even further, tension cables can be constructed from different endpieces located at each end of the cable, that is, there are a number of combinations of cables and endpieces that can form the tension cable. 
         [0122]      FIGS. 28A through 28D  show a plurality of different methods for supporting backdrop assembly  4 .  FIG. 28A  shows a backdrop support rod  140  consisting of a support rod inner section  141 , with a rectangular shape, and a support rod outer section  142  with a rectangular “C” shape. Support rod inner section  141  is formed in such a way as to move in and out of support rod outer section  142  allowing support rod  140  to be made variable in length. In the current embodiment, support rod outer section  142  is made from aluminum, and measures 7/16-inches wide by 11/16-inch high by 36-inches long (outside dimensions), with an inner opening measuring ⅜-inches wide by 11/16-inches high; while support rod inner section  141  is made from aluminum and measures 5/16-inches wide by 10/16-inches high by 36-inches long (outside dimensions). Although a rectangular shape is shown for upper support rod  140 , other shapes, such as oval shapes, may be used.  FIG. 28B  shows an alternate upper backdrop support rod  143  consisting of a circular rod inner section  144  and a circular rod outer section  145 . Circular rod inner section  144  is formed in such a way as to move in and out of circular rod outer section  145  allowing alternate upper support rod  143  to be made variable in length. In the current embodiment, circular rod outer section  145  is an aluminum tube with a ¾-inch outside diameter, a 23/32-inch inside diameter, and is 36-inches long, while circular rod inner section  144  is an aluminum tube with a 11/16-inch outside diameter, a 21/32-inch inside diameter, and is 36-inches long. Although a circular shape is shown for alternate upper support rod  143 , other shapes, such as oval shapes, may be used.  FIG. 28C  shows a fixed length support rod  147 , which is used to keep backdrop assembly  4  fixed in place while hanging from curved backdrop rod hanger  107  in the current embodiment, or fixed length support rod  147  may be used in backdrop assembly  4  as a fixed length upper support rod. In the current embodiment fixed length support rod  147  is a cylindrical tube, preferably made from aluminum, although other materials could be used, measuring ¾-inches in diameter, with a 23/32-inch inside diameter, and is 48-inches long. Although a circular shape is shown for fixed length support rod  147 , other shapes, such as oval shapes, may be used.  FIG. 28D  shows an alternate fixed length support rod  148 , which can be used in backdrop assembly  4  to keep it fixed in place while hanging from curved backdrop rod hanger  107  in the current embodiment, or alternate fixed length support rod  148  may be used in backdrop assembly  4  as a fixed length upper support rod. In the current embodiment alternate fixed length support rod  148  is a square tube, preferably made from aluminum, although other materials could be used, measuring ¾-inches wide by ¾-inches high, with an inside measurement of 23/32-inch width by 23/32-inch height, and is 48-inches long. Although a square shape is shown for alternate fixed length support rod  148 , other shapes, such as rectangular shapes, may be used. Although in the current embodiment, aluminum is the preferred material for rods  140 ,  143 ,  147 , and  148 , other materials, such as wood, plastic, steel, etc., can be used. 
         [0123]    Note that although specific sizes of the components forming modular background set  1  have been discussed, those components can be constructed in different sizes to form a variety of configurations of modular background set  1 . Support base assembly  5 , base inner sleeve  30 , a plurality of outer column sleeves  50 , a plurality of inner column sleeves  70 , a plurality of inner sleeve support frames  80 , and column top cap  112  can all be adjusted in width, depth and height to form a column  3 , which is smaller or larger (in perimeter), or shorter or taller (in height). Column  3  height may also be adjusted using more or less of outer column sleeves  50 , inner column sleeves  70 , and inner sleeve support frames  80 . Backdrop assembly  4  can be adjusted in height and width, and when combined with various column  3  sizes, form shorter or taller modular background set  1 . That is, there are a number of modular background set  1  configurations that can be formed. 
       Method of Assembly 
     FIGS.  29 - 46   
       [0124]      FIGS. 29 to 46  illustrate the method for assembly of modular background set  1 , which consists of a plurality of completed columns  3  and backdrop assembly  4 .  FIGS. 29 to 43  illustrate the method of assembly of column  3 , which, in the current embodiment, consists of support base assembly  5 , base inner sleeve  30 , three outer column sleeves  50 , two inner column sleeves  70 , two inner sleeve support frames  80 , one column top cap  112 , one tension cable  130 , and a plurality of curved backdrop rod hangers  107 . 
         [0125]    Turning now to  FIG. 29 , support base assembly  5  is initially placed on a solid surface  164 , with column wall attachment assembly  7  facing upward. Next, base inner sleeve  30  is manipulated to it&#39;s expanded state; positioned with first instruction label  160  visible at the top of base inner sleeve  30 ; and placed on support base assembly  5  by moving it in an installation direction  162  until it engages column support section  18 . Note that the bottom of tab attachment area  41  fits within support base attachment wall gap  19 . 
         [0126]    Next, turning now to  FIG. 30 , base inner sleeve  30  is manipulated until base inner sleeve attachment apertures  44  align with support base fastener apertures  22 . A plurality of fasteners  166  are combined with a plurality of washers  167 , and then inserted through base inner sleeve attachment apertures  44 , and support base fastener apertures  22 . A nut fastener  168  is threadably engaged with each fastener  166  on the inside of column wall attachment assembly  7  until base inner sleeve  30  is securely attached to column wall attachment assembly  7  of support base assembly  5  (fastener  166  is preferably a #6-32, by ½-inch long machine screw, P/N 1488; washer  167  is preferably a #6 finishing washer, P/N 2923; and nut fastener  168  is preferably a wing nut, P/N 2685, all available from BoltDepot.com, North Weymouth, Mass.). Alternately, when base fastener apertures  22  are threaded, fasteners  166  may be threadably engaged directly to wall attachment assembly  7 . Further, base inner sleeve  30  may be attached to wall attachment assembly  7  using quick release fasteners, such as the quick release ball lock pin from Fixtureworks in Michigan. That is, there are a number of fastener types that can be used to attach base inner sleeve  30  to wall attachment assembly  7 . 
         [0127]    In the next step, as seen in  FIGS. 31 and 32 , the first outer column sleeve  50  is manipulated to it&#39;s expanded state; positioned with second instruction label  170  visible at the top of outer column sleeve  50 ; placed over base inner sleeve  30 ; and subsequently positioned on support base assembly  5  by moving it in installation direction  162  until it engages column support section  18 . As shown in  FIG. 32 , with outer column sleeve  50  fully engaged, base inner sleeve  30  keeps outer column sleeve  50  from moving in directions orthogonal to installation direction  162 . Optionally, flute covering  106  can be installed at this point to cover flutes  90  of outer column sleeve  50 . 
         [0128]    As seen in  FIG. 33 , in the next step of assembly of column  3 , the first inner column sleeve  70  is manipulated to it&#39;s expanded state; positioned with third instruction label  174  visible at the top of first inner column sleeve  70 ; inserted within first outer column sleeve  50 ; and subsequently positioned on a plurality of inner sleeve support shelves  64  by moving it in installation direction  162 . 
         [0129]    As seen in  FIGS. 34 and 35 , first inner column sleeve  70  is further supported and kept square by installing first inner sleeve support frame  80 . First inner sleeve support frame  80  is initially placed over first inner column sleeve  70  and then is moved in installation direction  162  until it engages the top of first outer column sleeve  50 . When the installation of first inner column sleeve  70  and first inner sleeve support frame  80  are completed, a portion of first inner column sleeve  70  remains exposed in order to accept second outer column sleeve  50  in the next step. Optionally, first outer column sleeve  50  may be further supported by connecting it to optional first outer column support bracket  85 , and thus indirectly to first inner sleeve support frame  80 , using a plurality of outer column sleeve fasteners  88  and washers  167  (such as a #6-32, by ½-inch long machine screw coupled with a #6 finishing washer, P/N 2923, available from BoltDepot.com, North Weymouth, Mass.), which engage a plurality of threaded support bracket apertures  87 . Additionally, first outer column sleeve  50  may be connected to optional first outer column support bracket  85  using quick release fasteners, such as the quick release ball lock pin from Fixtureworks in Michigan. That is, there are a number of fastener types that can be used to attach first outer column sleeve  50  to optional outer first column support bracket  85 . Even further, as seen in  FIG. 35 , to optionally provide further alignment of first outer column sleeve  50 , a plurality of circular outer sleeve alignment rods  100 , or rectangular outer sleeve alignment rods  104 , could be installed at this point through alignment dowel apertures  82  and into flutes  90  at the top of first outer column sleeve  50 . 
         [0130]    As seen in  FIG. 35 , the next outer column sleeve  50 , which is the second outer column sleeve in the current embodiment, is manipulated to it&#39;s expanded state; positioned with second instruction label  170  visible at the top of second outer column sleeve  50 ; placed over first inner column sleeve  70 ; and subsequently positioned on first inner sleeve support frame  80  by moving it in installation direction  162  until it engages first inner sleeve support frame  80 . With second outer column sleeve  50  fully engaged to first inner sleeve support frame  80 , first inner column sleeve  70  keeps second outer column sleeve  50  from moving in directions orthogonal to installation direction  162 . If desired, flute covering  106  can be installed at this point to cover flutes  90  at both the bottom and top of second outer column sleeve  50 . Optionally, if installed in an earlier step, second outer column sleeve  50  may be further supported by connecting it to optional first outer column support bracket  85 , and thus indirectly to first inner sleeve support frame  80 , using a plurality of outer column sleeve fasteners  88  and washers  167 . Further, if optionally installed in an earlier step, a plurality of outer sleeve alignment rods  100  ( 104 ) extending from first outer column  50  could engage a plurality of flutes  90  located at the bottom of second outer column sleeve  50 . 
         [0131]    Turning now to  FIG. 36A , prior to installing the second, and final inner column sleeve  70  in the current embodiment, and the third and final outer column sleeve  50  in the current embodiment (both described just below in the Specification), a plurality of curved backdrop rod hangers  107  are installed into column top cap  112 . To accomplish this installation, straight shaft  110  of each curved backdrop rod hangers  107  is inserted into backdrop rod hanger apertures  114 . In the current embodiment, two curved backdrop rod hangers  107  are installed in the backdrop rod hanger apertures  114  located closest to the inside of constructed column  3  (where backdrop assembly  4  will be placed). Next, one end of tension cable  130  is placed within upper tension cable slot  127 . The opposite end of tension cable  130  is then placed through the top opening of third outer column sleeve  50  so that it protrudes through the bottom of third outer column sleeve  50 . Column top cap  112  is then inserted into third outer column sleeve  50  by moving it in installation direction  162  until it engages the top of third outer column sleeve  50 . 
         [0132]    Optionally, in an alternate embodiment, as shown in  FIG. 36B , second column top cap  129  may be used. In this alternate embodiment, two curved backdrop rod hangers  107  are installed into third outer column sleeve  50  by inserting straight shaft  110  of each curved backdrop rod hanger  107  into a top flute  90  located closest to the inside of constructed column  3  (where backdrop assembly  4  will be placed). Next, one end of elastic cable  139  is threaded through column top cable aperture  190  and then through endpiece  131 , where the end of elastic cable  139  is tied into a knot so as not to pull through the ¼-inch hole in endpiece  131 . The opposite end of tension cable  130  is then placed through the top opening of third outer column sleeve  50  and pulled downward in installation direction  162  until endpiece  131  engages the top of second column top cap  129 . The opposite end of tension cable  130  now protrudes through the bottom of third outer column sleeve  50 . Second column top cap  129  is then inserted into third outer column sleeve  50  by moving it in installation direction  162  until it engages a plurality of support shelves  64 . 
         [0133]    Alternately, although not directly shown, third column top cap  156  could be used at this point in the installation procedure ( FIGS. 26D and 26E  show third column top cap  156  in position to install onto to outer column  50 ). In this optional embodiment, two curved backdrop rod hangers  107  are installed in the backdrop rod hanger apertures  114  located closest to the inside of constructed column  3  (where backdrop assembly  4  will be placed). Next, one end of tension cable  130  is placed within upper tension cable slot  127 . The opposite end of tension cable  130  is then placed through the top opening of third outer column sleeve  50  so that it protrudes through the bottom of third outer column sleeve  50 . Third column top cap  156  is then inserted into the third outer column sleeve  50  by moving it in installation direction  162  until it engages the top of third outer column sleeve  50 . 
         [0134]    Optionally, column top cap  112  and third column top cap  156  can be attached to final outer column  50  using a plurality of fasteners  166  and washers  167 .  FIGS. 26D  and  26 E, show this optional attachment using third column top cap  156 , although the identical procedure can be used for column top cap  112 . Once third column top cap  156  is inserted into final outer column  50 , fasteners  166  (coupled with washers  167 ) are inserted through a plurality of outer column sleeve upper attachment apertures  122  and are threadably engaged with a plurality of threaded column top cap fastener apertures  120  in third column top cap  156 . 
         [0135]      FIG. 37  describes the next step in the assembly of column  3 . In this step second and final inner column sleeve  70  is first inserted into second outer column sleeve  50  (as described above in  FIG. 33 ). Next, second and final sleeve support frame  80  is installed onto second inner column sleeve  70  (as described above in  FIG. 34 ). If optionally used, optional second outer column support bracket  85 , and a plurality of optional outer sleeve alignment rods  100  ( 104 ), can be installed at this point. Finally, third and final outer column sleeve  50 , assembled with column top cap  112  (or optionally third column top cap  156 ), as described above in  FIG. 36A  in this embodiment, with curved backdrop rod hangers  107  and tension cable  130  already installed, is placed over second and final inner column sleeve  70  (as described in  FIG. 35 ). Note that tension cable  130  now protrudes through all column  3  components below third and final outer column sleeve  50 . If desired, flute covering  106  can be installed at this point to cover flutes  90  at both the bottom and top of third and final outer column sleeve  50 . Optionally, if optional second outer column support bracket  85  was installed in an earlier step, second and third outer column sleeves  50  may be further supported by connecting them to optional second outer column support bracket  85 , and thus indirectly to second inner sleeve support frame  80 , using a plurality of outer column sleeve fasteners  88  and washers  167 . Further, if optionally installed in an earlier step, a plurality of outer sleeve alignment rods  100  ( 104 ), extending from second outer column  50  could engage a plurality of flutes  90  located at the bottom of third outer column  50 . 
         [0136]      FIG. 38  shows the installation of alternate second column top cap  129 , assembled with third and final outer column sleeve  50  (as described in  FIG. 36B ). This alternate combination is then installed as just described above in the embodiment shown in  FIG. 37 , along with any optional components, such as flute covering  106 , outer column support bracket  85 , or outer sleeve alignment rods  100  ( 104 ). 
         [0137]      FIG. 39  shows an overall perspective view of the steps just described above in  FIGS. 29 to 38 , including possible optional embodiments (such as outer column support brackets  85  and outer sleeve alignment rods  100  ( 104 )). Note also that in an alternate installation approach, any of top caps  112 ,  129 , or  156  may be installed onto final outer column sleeve  50  after final outer column sleeve  50  has been installed onto second and final inner column sleeve  70 . 
         [0138]    Turning now to  FIG. 40 , the last step in the construction of column  3  involves the final installation of tension cable  130 . As seen in  FIGS. 36A and 37 , tension cable  130  is now protruding through all column  3  components below third and final outer column sleeve  50 . To complete column  3  assembly, the user places their hand through outer sleeve access aperture  66  and base inner sleeve access aperture  49  to grasp the other endpiece  131  of tension cable  130 . Once endpiece  131  is in hand, it is pulled in a downward installation direction  162  and placed in lower tension cable slot  27 , thus placing all components in column  3  in vertical tension. 
         [0139]      FIGS. 41A and 41B  show two completed columns  3 .  FIG. 41A  describes the completed column  3  of this embodiment.  FIG. 41B  shows an alternate embodiment using third column top cap  156  and alternate inner sleeve support frame  74  where support frame shelf  78  may be used as an additional surface area for placing supplementary items used in tradeshows, broadcast television studios, etc., such as brochures, display monitors, and speakers, to name a few. 
         [0140]      FIG. 42  shows the use of additional embodiments of tension cables  132 ,  134 , and  136 . Alternate tension cable  132  attaches to column top cap  112  using upper tension cable slot  127  at the top of column  3 , and to support base assembly  5  using lower tension cable slot  27  at the bottom of column  3 .  FIG. 42  also shows the use of additional tension cable  134 , and adjustable tension cable  136 , whose ends are attached to upper tension hook  128 , which is engaged with column top cap  112  at the top of column  3 , and attached to lower tension hook  25 , which is engaged with support base assembly  5 , at the bottom of column  3 .  FIG. 43  shows the use of second column top cap  129  with alternate tension cable  132 , and alternate rectangular backdrop rod hangers  108 , in an alternate embodiment of column  3 . Note also that although tension cable  130 , or additional embodiments of tension cables  132 ,  134 , and  136 , is used in this embodiment, column  3  may be assembled without a tension cable, while still functioning as designed. 
         [0141]    Note also that due to the lightweight design of this embodiment, at any time during the assembly of column  3 , the partially-assembled column may be tilted forward or backward, or to the left or right, in order to attach column  3  components, thereby eliminating the need for additional hardware, such as ladders. Footpad section  16  may also be used in the manipulation of column  3 . 
         [0142]    Optionally, the assembly of column  3  can be implemented by placing support base assembly  5  on its side, with column wall attachment assembly  7  facing parallel to solid surface  164 . Assembly of column  3  would continue as just described above but with all components installed in a horizontal direction. Once assembled, column  3  would be positioned vertically to complete the assembly. 
         [0143]    Once columns  3  have been assembled, backdrop assembly  4  may be attached. Turning now to  FIG. 44 , backdrop assembly  4  is comprised of two support rods  140 , one for upper support and one for lower support, and a backdrop  150 , which possesses a display surface  151 . In the current embodiment, backdrop  150  is a canvas fabric material, available from Genesis Art Supplies, of Chicago, Ill., although other fabric materials such as nylon, cotton, polyester/cotton blend, etc., can be used. In its final form, backdrop  150  measures 48-inches wide by 95-inches high. Backdrop  150  may be of a single color or multiple colors; display images (such as company logos) or text; or be used as a video projection screen; that is, backdrop  150  is capable of providing many variations of backgrounds suited for a variety of settings and uses. Backdrop assembly  4  is formed by inserting a first support rod  140  into a backdrop upper rod sleeve opening  152  until both ends of first support rod  140  are seen protruding from the ends of backdrop upper rod sleeve opening  152 , and inserting a second support rod  140  into a backdrop lower rod sleeve opening  154  until both ends of second support rod  140  are seen protruding from the ends of backdrop lower rod sleeve opening  154 . 
         [0144]    Turning now to  FIG. 45 , backdrop assembly  4  is attached to a set of completed columns  3  by inserting support rod inner section  141  into a pair of curved backdrop rod hangers  107  installed on a first column  3 , and subsequently inserting support rod outer section  142  into a pair of curved backdrop rod hangers  107  installed on a second column  3 , such that display surface  151  of backdrop  150  is facing in a forward direction  180 . Backdrop  150  is then allowed to hang between the set of columns  3 , while held in place by the weight of second support rod  140 , located at the bottom of backdrop  150 , whose ends fit within cutout slots  17  of support base assembly  5  (see  FIG. 2F ). 
         [0145]      FIG. 46  shows an alternate embodiment using alternate support rod  143  and second column top cap  129 . In this embodiment circular rod inner section  144  is inserted into a pair of curved backdrop rod hangers  107  installed on a first column  3 , and circular rod outer section  145  is inserted into a into a pair of curved backdrop rod hangers  107  installed on a second column  3 , such that display surface  151  of backdrop  150  is facing in a forward direction  180 . Backdrop  150  is then allowed to hang between the set of columns  3 , while held in place by the weight of alternate support rod  143 , or alternately, support rods  147  or  148 , whose ends fit within cutout slots  17  of support base assembly  5 . 
         [0146]    The final, completed assembly of this embodiment of modular background set  1  is shown in  FIG. 1 . Modular background set  1  can be readily and easily disassembled in the reverse order to that described above to a very compact and lightweight configuration that may be easily transported in small boxes, suitcases, or other enclosures, as described above. 
       Alternate Embodiment 
     FIG.  41 A or  41 B 
       [0147]    In another embodiment, using  FIG. 41A  or  41 B, a modular background set  1 , featuring a single column, can be produced by placing backdrop rod hangers ( 107 ,  108 ) at the front of completed column  3  in either flutes  90 , or backdrop rod hangar apertures  114 , if column top cap one  112  or third column top cap  156  are used. Support rod  140  and display surface  151  maintain similar structure as described above, but may be adjusted in size to form the single column display configuration. In this configuration, backdrop  150  will be positioned in front of column  3 . Modular background set  1 , configured in a single column, can be readily and easily disassembled in the reverse order to that described above to a very compact and lightweight configuration that may be easily transported in small boxes, suitcases, or other enclosures, as described above. 
       Additional Embodiment 
     FIG.  32   
       [0148]    In another embodiment, described in  FIG. 32 , a shortened modular background set  1  can be created by combining support base assembly  5 , base inner sleeve  30 , and outer column sleeve  50 . At this step, as described above, any of top caps  112 ,  129 , or  156  may be installed onto final outer column sleeve  50 , with backdrop rod hangers ( 107 ,  108 ) placed in either flutes  90 , or backdrop rod hangar apertures  114 , if column top cap one  112  or third column top cap  156  are used, thus completing column  3 . Support rod  140  and display surface  151  maintain similar structure as described above, but may be adjusted in size to the required height and width to fit between two shortened columns  3 . Shortened modular background set  1  can be readily and easily disassembled in the reverse order to that described above to a very compact and lightweight configuration that may be easily transported in small boxes, suitcases, or other enclosures, as described above. 
       Further Alternate Embodiments 
     FIGS.  47 - 50   
       [0149]    In another embodiment, shown in  FIG. 47 , four completed columns  3  are combined with three backdrop assemblies  4  to create a background with non-orthogonal wings, which are commonly used in tradeshows, broadcast television, or theatre. In this embodiment, all four columns  3  are assembled as described above in  FIGS. 29 to 46 . To accomplish the wing-assembly configuration, the two center columns  3  use two column top caps  112 , each with two curved backdrop rod hangers  107  installed within backdrop rod hanger apertures  114  positioned along top cap angle  119  (see  FIGS. 24A and 25C ). The outer columns  3  use two column top caps  112 , each with two curved backdrop rod hangers  107  installed within backdrop rod hanger apertures  114  positioned along the backside of column top cap  112  (as seen in FIG.  25 A). In the current embodiment, when the two side backdrop assemblies  4  are installed in this manner, a 45-degree orientation direction  194  is formed, thus creating the non-orthogonal wing configuration. 
         [0150]    In yet another embodiment, shown in  FIG. 48 , four columns  3  are combined with three backdrop assemblies  4  to create a background with orthogonal wings, commonly used in tradeshows, broadcast television, or theatre. In this embodiment, all four columns  3  are assembled as described above in  FIGS. 29 to 46 , but with second column top cap  129  used in order to demonstrate the flexibility of this embodiment. To accomplish the orthogonal wing-assembly configuration, the two center columns  3  use second column top caps  129 , each with two additional curved backdrop rod hangers  107  inserted directly into corrugated plastic sheet flutes  90  positioned along the outside edge of outer column sleeves  50 . The two outer columns  3  use second column top caps  129 , each with two curved backdrop rod hangers  107  inserted directly into corrugated plastic sheet flutes  90  positioned along the backside edge of outer column sleeves  50  (as seen in  FIG. 26B ). In the current embodiment, when the two side backdrop assemblies  4  are installed in this manner, a 90-degree orientation direction  196  is formed, thus creating the orthogonal wing configuration. 
         [0151]    As discussed in the description of the construction of column top cap  112  in  FIGS. 22 to 25 , top cap angle  119  could be machined to other angles to form different background wing-assembly configurations. 
       Further Additional Embodiment 
     FIG.  49   
       [0152]    In an additional embodiment, shown in  FIG. 49 , lintel  200  is constructed from a lintel column  201  and a plurality of lintel end caps  202 . Lintel column  201  is further formed from a plurality of inner column sleeves  70 ; inner sleeve support frames  80 ; and outer column sleeves  50 , each with the same shape, but with different dimensions than those used in the assembly of column  3 , and formed in a manner similar to the components of column  3 , as described above in  FIGS. 4A to 4E  and  FIGS. 8A to 8E . In the current embodiment, inner column sleeve  70  for lintel column  201  measures 6.3-inches wide by 6.5 inches deep by 13-inches long (outside dimensions); inner sleeve support frame  80  for lintel column  201  measures 7.0-inches wide by 7.2 inches deep by ½-inches long (outside dimensions), with an internal cutout  81  measuring 6.4-inches wide by 6.6 inches deep, allowing it to fit around inner column sleeve  70 ; and outer column sleeve  50  for lintel column  201  measures 6.8-inches wide by 7.0 inches deep by 26.5-inches long (outside dimensions). Lintel end cap  202  is preferably made from a closed cell polymerized vinyl chloride (PVC) material, such as Sintra®, which is lightweight with a high-stiffness; is available in a variety of thicknesses and colors; and can be cut, milled, routed or drilled to form many shapes. Note that other stiff, lightweight materials could be used, such as cellular utility polymer sheet material (e.g., King StarLite® XL); acetal plastics (e.g., Delrin®); and Polyamide (Nylon); to name a few. For this embodiment lintel end cap  202  is constructed from ½-inch (13-mm) thick Sintra® in a black color, although other thicknesses and colors may be used. In the present embodiment, embodiment lintel end cap  202  has a cap inner section  204  measuring 6.2-inches wide by 6.4 inches deep by ¼-inches long (outside dimensions), and an end cap outer section  206  measuring 6.8-inches wide by 7.0 inches long by ¼-inch deep. 
       Further Additional Embodiment 
     FIGS.  49 - 50   
       [0153]    Since lintel  200  is constructed with similar components as used for column  3 , the assembly of lintel  200  is similar to the assembly of column  3 . That is, lintel  200  components inner column sleeves  70 , inner sleeve support frames  80 , and outer column sleeves  50 , are assembled as described above in  FIGS. 33 to 35 . Once these components are assembled, lintel end caps  202  are installed on both ends of lintel  200 . As shown in  FIG. 49 , cap inner section  204  frictionally fits within outer column sleeve  50  on each end of lintel column  201 . Once the assembly of lintel  200  is completed, it is attached to a set of columns  3 . To accomplish this each end of lintel  200  is placed upon a separate column top cap  112  before column top cap  112  is engaged with the top outer column sleeve  50  of a column  3 . A plurality of lintel column attachment apertures  203  are aligned with outer member lintel attachment apertures  116  and inner member lintel attachment apertures  117  on column top cap  112 . Once aligned, a plurality of fasteners  166 , washers  167 , and nut fasteners  168  are used to attach lintel  200  to each column top cap  112  (fasteners  166 , washer  167 , and nut fastener  168  are used in a similar method as shown before in  FIG. 30 ). Additionally, lintel  200  can be attached to each column top cap  112  using quick release fasteners, such as the quick release ball lock pin from Fixtureworks in Michigan. That is, there are a number of fastener types that can be used to attach lintel  200  to each column top cap  112 . Once lintel  200  is attached to column top caps  112 , the entire assembly is engaged with the top outer column sleeves  50  of each column  3 . If used, installation of tension cables  130  for each column  3  are then implemented as described before in  FIG. 40 . The final assembly of this additional embodiment is shown in  FIG. 50 . 
         [0154]    From the foregoing, it is apparent that the portable, easily-assembled, modular background set described above not only provides for the reliable accomplishment of the purpose of this embodiment, but does so in a particularly simple, quick and reliable manner. It is recognized, of course, that those skilled in the art may make various modifications or additions to the embodiments chosen to illustrate the invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the present contribution to the art. Accordingly, it is to be understood that the protection sought and to be afforded hereby should be deemed to extend to the subject matter claimed and all equivalents thereof within the scope of the invention.