Patent Publication Number: US-9424763-B2

Title: Messaging sign having a reversible fastening system for moveable display articles

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/745,126, filed Jan. 18, 2013. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The invention relates to a messaging sign and, in particular, it relates to a messaging having a reversible fastening system for moveable display articles. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Improving the overall quality of patient care has become a fundamental priority for healthcare providers. In order to provide utmost care, providers rely heavily on accurate communication between a patient and staff members, as well as directives between staff members. A breakdown of this communication may not only lead to irritable patients, but potentially fatal consequences. 
     Generally, various staff members attend to a patient&#39;s needs, including doctors, nurses and other hospital employees. The interchanging responsibility between each staff member requires clear verbal and visual communications to minimize confusion and miscommunication. Proper communication not only benefits the patient, but also the attending staff members and other neighboring patients, since it may be important to communicate any potential communicable illnesses that patient may have. 
     There has always been a problem in communicating patient care in a concise consistent manner. Although instructions and patient information may be shared on charts, computers and handwritten panels, the attending staff member may not have the time or understanding of the scribed remarks. In fact, the attending staff may have to rely on many different references, in various locations, in order to treat a patient. Communicating important information, in this manner, may not necessarily be efficient. 
     The healthcare industry, like many other industries, has adopted a simplistic system of universal indicia representing important directives. This system allows staff members to inform healthcare professionals of patient needs and concerns in a clear efficient manner. 
     Because it is normal for a nurse to transfer patient information to another incoming nurse during a shift change, nurse-messaging signs have become popular because they provide informative directives using predetermined symbols. Such systems provide an incoming nurse or attending doctor enough information needed to provide particular patient care without having to review numerous records. It may be important not to disrupt the patient&#39;s privacy, and so the messaging sign may provide the attending staff with advance warning. Fundamentally, these signs have become popular because they provide patient care instructions, such as medical warnings, in a consistent, effective manner. 
     U. S. Patent Application Publication No. 2001/0045037 discloses a patient care and medical alert system, which includes a message board for displaying information. The message board comprises a frame and cover, wherein the cover includes a permanent and temporary message area, and is free to rotate away from the frame. The permanent message area includes indicia relating to the permanent identifying information, including, but not limited to, a room number, and wing and telephone extensions. The temporary message area is left available so that a user can use temporary message cards to detail temporary messages about a patient. The user can rotate the cover to an open position, in order to access a recessed portion of the frame. This recessed portion is configured and dimensioned in order to store a number of temporary message cards. The temporary message cards contain distinct indicia relevant to the care of the patient identified on the message board and can be affixed to the cover. The temporary message cards can be attached using a variety of fastening means, including, but not limited to, magnets, hook and loop, and adhesives. This type of signage system allows a nurse to provide a litany of information about the patient, but is dependent on message cards, which can be misplaced or removed very easily. 
     U. S. Patent Application Publication No. 2003/0029064 discloses a placard apparatus for display in a room for visually informing responding emergency personnel the occupant safety status. The placard apparatus comprises a front, middle and rear planar members, as well as slideable signage members. When assembled, the front, middle and rear planar members will house the slideable signage members in a formed article receiving opening area. The front planar member includes two apertures, one that is on the right edge and the other on the left edge. Additionally, the front planar member includes a central portion having indicia. The middle planar member acts as a spacer between the front and rear planar members, and has as large opening in the center. This acts as the article receiving opening area when the apparatus is assembled. The signage member, which includes indicia on the right and left sides, fits in the large opening. The user can move the signage member left or right to expose the appropriate indicia through the corresponding aperture. The signage member is designed to fit snug between the top and bottom edges of the middle planar member. However, the signage member is only wide enough to be viewed through one aperture when fully pushed up against the left or right side of the middle planar member. The middle planar member and signage member include features that comprise a latching system. This latching system locks the signage member into place when the user fully exposes information from the signage member through the right aperture, and a signage member notch becomes engaged with the latching system. A rear planar member, which has a narrow slotted opening, completes the placard system. This slotted opening provides the user access to the signage member in order to move and lock the signage member into place. This type of signage system is very limited in application, especially considering that the suggested latching system is not reversible. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 3,604,133 discloses an advertising card display comprising a plurality of cards enclosed within a hollow rectangular sleeve. The cards may contain text or symbols, in order to communicate information to a viewer. Each card has a pull tab means enabling the cards to be grasped and pulled from the left or right side of the sleeve. Projections on the leading end of the cards provide foot rest means for the cards, while the card is in retracted position. Projections on the trailing end serve as a means to prevent the cards from being withdrawn completely from the sleeve. Since the cards are stacked on each other in the sleeve, the rectangularly configured strips provide a stopping engagement with adjacent cards. The strips are secured on both sides of the leading end of the card. This acts a second stopping means. When one card is pulled out of the sleeve, the strip on other adjacent card acts to stop the pulled card from being completely removed from the sleeve. When the adjacent card is then pulled out in the opposite direction, the locking engagement automatically pulls the exposed card back into the sleeve. Several embodiments are further disclosed, but are all similar in operation. A problem exists with these designs in that the cards can be repositioned without a user unlocking the card first. The card being displayed can be accidentally removed from view, having serious repercussions. 
     SUMMARY 
     It is an object of the present invention to provide messaging sign apparatus having a frame, and a moveable article. The frame includes an article receiving section along an inner body thereof and an article receiving opening on an outer surface and leading into the article receiving section. The moveable article is positioned in the article receiving section and moveable through the article receiving opening. The moveable article includes a first position notch positioned between a distal end and a leading end of the moveable article to engage the frame and secure one end of the moveable article within the frame and an opposite end positioned outside the frame. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The invention will be explained in greater detail with reference to embodiments, referring to the appended drawings, in which: 
         FIG. 1  is an exploded perspective view of a messaging sign according to the invention; 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of the messaging sign according to the invention, showing a cover rotated open and a frame holding a plurality of moveable articles; 
         FIG. 3  is a frontal view of the frame of the messaging sign according to the invention; 
         FIG. 4  is a rear view of the messaging sign shown in  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 5  is a close up front view of the messaging sign shown in  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 6  is a sectional view of the messaging sign in  FIG. 5 ; 
         FIG. 7  is a section view of the messaging sign according to the invention, along line  7 - 7  of  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 8  is a perspective view of the messaging sign according to the invention, showing the cover positioned over the frame; 
         FIG. 9  is an exploded perspective view of another messaging sign according to the invention; 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of the messaging sign of  FIG. 9 , showing a cover slide open and a frame holding a plurality of moveable articles; 
         FIG. 11  is a sectional view of the messaging sign in  FIG. 10 , along line  11 - 11  of  FIG. 10 ; 
         FIG. 12  is a close-up section view of the messaging sign of  FIG. 11 ; 
         FIG. 13  is a rear view of the messaging sign shown in  FIG. 9 ; and 
         FIG. 14  is a perspective view of the cover of the messaging sign of  FIG. 9 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENT(S) 
     Now with reference to  FIG. 1 , the messaging sign  1  according to the invention is shown and includes the following major components: a base  10 , a frame  20 , a plurality of moveable articles  40 , a plurality of fastening members  50 , and a cover  60 . As will be described, more or less of the aforementioned components can be used without departing from the spirit of the invention. 
     Now, each major component will be described in further detail, with reference to the drawings. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the base  10  is a flat planar article having a mounting means disposed along a surface thereof. The mounting means could be a fastener element, such as screws, rivets, nails, hook and loop fastener, or other fasteners known to the art, or an adhesive, such as a tape, glue, a thermoset, a removable adhesive, or magnet. In the embodiment shown, the base  10  is a solid rectangular panel having a double-sided adhesive tape (not shown) disposed on the rear surface thereof. The base  10  is constructed from a manufactured material, such as plastic, but it could be understood by one skilled in the art that the manufactured material could be prepared from other materials, such as a metal, an organic material, or a composite. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 3 and 4 , the frame  20  is a rectangular panel having a top layer  22  and a sectional layer  30 . However, it is also possible that frame  20  be prepared from other polygonal shapes, such as a square. 
     In the embodiment shown, the frame  20  includes apertures formed along an inner body of each layer  22 ,  30 . The apertures form the article receiving sections  34  within an inner body of the frame  20 , as well as article receiving openings  36  positioned along an outer edged of the frame  20 . 
     The top layer  22  includes a plurality of article viewing sections  24 , which extend along a latitudinal axis of the top layer  22 , as well as a plurality of notches  26  along a bottom portion of each article viewing section  24 . Each notch  26  is positioned on a left and a right side of each article viewing section  24 , respectively, according to the embodiment shown. 
     As shown in  FIG. 3 , the top layer  22  is grid shaped, and includes a plurality of outer dividers  22   a  extending along the latitudinal axis and an inner divider  22   b  disposed along a substantially center of the frame  20 . The inner divider  22   b  extends along a longitudinal axis of a top layer  22  of the frame  20 . An outer wall  22   c  is positioned along the outside of the top layer  22  and extends adjacent the outer dividers  22   a . Each outer divider  22   a  extends between the central inner divider  22   b  and the outer wall  22   c . Accordingly, the article viewing sections  24  are disposed between adjacent outer dividers  22   a , the central inner divider  22   b , and the outer wall  22   c . In the embodiment shown, a total of eight article viewing sections  24  are provided. However, one skilled in the art should appreciate one or more article viewing sections  24  could be used. 
     The top layer  22  is made of from a manufactured material, and may be constructed using a variety of methods, including injection molding, metal stamping, etc. but must be in a manner sufficient to form the article viewing sections  24  and notches  26 , which may be manufactured after the frame  20  is formed. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 4-6 , the sectional layer  30  is also grid shaped. In the embodiment shown, the sectional layer  30  includes a plurality of stringers  32  extending along the latitudinal axis from the outer wall  22   c  to an opposite outer wall  22   c . In the embodiment shown, each stringer  32  is a rib that extends away from a bottom surface of the outer divider  22   a  and provides the article receiving section  34  between adjacent stringers  32 . Furthermore, each stringer  32  corresponds with and extends along the outer divider  22   a  (shown in  FIG. 3 ). 
     Each stringer  32  includes a fastening member receiving passageway  33  positioned along an inner body thereof. In particular, in the embodiment shown, a pair of fastening member receiving passageways  33  are positioned on opposing sides of the stringer  32 . 
     In the embodiment shown, each fastening member receiving passageway  33  includes a holding section  33   a  and a tip receiving section  33   b . The holding section  33   a  is a cylindrical recess disposed along an outer surface  32   a  of the stringer  32  and extending therein. In particular, the holding section  33   a  is a cylindrical recess having one open end disposed along the outer surface of the stringer  32  and a closed end disposed on the top layer  22 . One skilled in the art would appreciate other shaped recesses are possible. In the embodiment shown, the tip receiving section  33   b  is an indentation disposed along an edge of the stringer  32  and extending into the holding section  33   a . In the embodiment shown, the tip receiving section  33   b  is also recessed along the outer surface  32   a  to form a notch in the stringer  32 . 
     The frame  20  may also include a securing device  12  positioned on or in the frame  20 . In the shown embodiment, the securing device  12  includes a mounting means, such as a magnet, disposed along a top surface of the frame  20 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 4-6 , the moveable article  40  is a planar article, and constructed from the manufactured material, like the base  10  and frame  20 . However, it is possible that the moveable articles  40  are made from a different material than the base  10  and frame  20 . 
     In the embodiment shown, each moveable article  40  is a planar rectangular card having indicia  46  disposed along a major surface thereof. In the embodiment shown, the indicia  46  are selected symbols that are standard to the health care industry. However, it is possible to include any symbol or text desired by a user in any industry. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 5 and 6 , each moveable article  40  includes a first position notch  41 , a second position notch  42 , and a stopper  43  disposed along outer surface walls of the moveable article  40 . In the embodiment shown, the first position notch  41  and the second position notch  42  are positioned along a lower outer wall surface of the moveable article  40 , and the stopper  43  is disposed along a surface wall of a trailing end  44  of the moveable article  40 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 6 , the first position notch  41  is an elongated indentation disposed along the lower outer surface wall and extends inward toward a substantial center thereof. The first position notch  41  includes a receiving section  41   a  that extends into a tapered section  41   b . The receiving section  41   a  is a shaped recess having a first engagement wall  41   c  along one side thereof. The tapered section  41   b  is an inclined surface wall extending from another side of the receiving section  41   a , opposite the first engagement wall  41   c , and toward the outer surface wall. The tapered section  41   b  also extends in a direction toward the second position notch  42 , but does not extend into the second position notch  42  in the embodiment shown. 
     The second position notch  42  is also an indentation disposed along the outer surface wall and apart from the first position notch  41  and disposed adjacent a trailing end  44  of the moveable article  40 . The second position notch  42  includes a receiving section shaped and sized similar to the receiving section  41   a . However, the second position notch  42  includes a pair of stop walls  42   a  positioned on opposite sides of the second position notch  42 . 
     The stopper  43  is a fastening member engaging surface that is disposed along the trailing end  44  of the moveable article  40 . In fact, in the embodiment shown, the stopper  43  is the outer wall of the trailing end  44 . However, in another embodiment, the stopper  43  may be another indentation, shaped and sized similar to the second position notch  42 , but disposed along trailing end  44 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 5 and 6 , each moveable article  40  includes a movement member  47 , a first movement indicator  48 , and a second movement indicator  49 . 
     The movement member  47  is disposed along a major surface of the moveable article  40 . The movement member  47  includes a grasping means, such a frictional layer of material, an outward protruding member, a recess, a roughened section of the moveable article  40 , or a depression along the major surface of the moveable article  40 . In the shown embodiment, the movement member  47  is a recess that extends completely through the moveable article  40 , and is viewable on a reversed side. 
     The first movement indicator  48  is disposed alongside the movement member  47  and adjacent the trailing end  44  of the moveable article  40 . In the embodiment shown, the first movement indicator  48  is a shaped recess, such as an arrow, indicating a first direction of movement. The first movement indicator  48  is disposed along one major surface of the moveable article  40 . 
     The second movement indicator  49  is disposed alongside an opposite side of the movement member  47  with respect to the first movement indicator  48 . In the embodiment shown, the second movement indicator  49  is a shaped recess, such as an arrow, indicating a second direction of movement, which is an opposite direction of movement with respect to the first direction of movement. The first movement indicator  48  is disposed along one major surface of the moveable article  40 . In addition, in the embodiment shown, the second movement indicator  49  is positioned closer to the movement member  47  than the first movement indicator  48 . 
     As shown, the first and second position notches  41 ,  42  could also be included on both top and bottom outer surface walls of moveable article  40 . Additionally, the first and second movement indicators  48 ,  49  could also be included on both major surfaces of moveable article  40 . For instance, the first and second movement indicators  48 ,  49  could extends through the first and second movement indicators  48 ,  49 , and become visible on both major surfaces thereof. 
     As clearly shown in  FIGS. 4 and 6 , the fastening member  50  is an elongated member having a securing end  50   a  and a finger  51  with a finger end  52  and a depression member  53 . 
     The securing end  50   a  is a polygonal shaped member disposed on a first end of the fastening member  50 . The finger  51  is a resilient elongated member that extends from the securing end  50   a  and includes a depression member  51   a  disposed along a substantial section thereof. The finger  51  curves away and upward from the securing end  50   a , and toward the finger end  52 . In the embodiment shown, the depression member  53  is a widened section of the finger  51 . In the embodiment shown, the finger end  52  is disposed on a second end of the fastening member  50 , which is opposite the securing end  50   a . The finger end  52  in the embodiment shown curves further upward from the finger  51 . In the embodiment shown, the finger end  52  includes a curved blunt end. However, it is possible that other shapes and configurations are used without departing from the spirit of the invention. 
     Now with reference to  FIGS. 2 and 8 , the cover  60  is shown and includes a receiving section  61  and extensions  62 . In the embodiment shown, the receiving section  61  is a rectangular shaped member having a body  61   a  and a plurality of sidewalls  61   b  extending substantially perpendicular from outer surfaces of the body  61   a . The extensions  62  extend from the receiving section  61  and, more particularly, from a bottom surface of the cover  60 . In the embodiment shown, the extensions  62  are tabs extending from a pair of opposite sidewalls  61   b  and extend away there from, along a longitudinal axis of the cover  60 . Each extension  62  includes a fastener receiving hole positioned there through. 
     In the shown embodiment, the cover  60  is metal. However, the cover  60  can be prepared from a manufactured material, like the base  10  and frame  20 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 1 and 8 , the cover  60  includes a card slot  90  disposed along an outer surface of the cover  60 . In the embodiment shown, the card slot  90  is an enveloped member includes a receiving space for paperwork (not shown) concerning the patient or a plurality of moveable articles  40 . 
     Now with reference to  FIGS. 2 and 8 , the fastener  70  is a fastener element, such as a screw, bolt, pin, or other known fastener that mechanically joins or affixes two or more objects together. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , the messaging sign  1  includes a removable sign  80  disposed along the receiving section  61 . In the embodiment shown, the removable sign  80  is flat shaped member having signage along one major surface side thereof. The removable sign  80  further includes a mounting means positioned along an opposite surface side thereof. In the embodiment shown, the removable sign  80  includes a magnetic material. 
     Now with reference to the drawings, an assembly of the messaging sign  1  will be described. 
     Referring first to  FIG. 1 , the messaging sign  1  is securable to a support surface, such as a wall (not shown), for instance, outside of a patient&#39;s room. However, those skilled in the art should appreciate that the messaging sign  1 , although shown in the exemplary embodiment as relating to patient care, has other fields of use wherever information needs to be communicated, including consumers and professionals. 
     In the embodiment, the messaging sign  1  and, in particular, the base  10  attaches to the surface using the adhesive tape on the rear side (not shown) of the messaging sign  1 . However, other attachment means are possible, including fasteners, adhesives, or mechanical joints. Additionally, in other embodiments, the base  10  can be omitted, and the support surface acts as a base  10 , attaching to the frame  20  and retaining the internal components of the messaging sign  1 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , the base  10  and the frame  20  have common dimensions, including a height and width, so that the base  10  and frame  20  correspond with each other. In the embodiment shown, the base  10  has a smaller thickness than the frame  20 . In the embodiment shown, the base  10  and the frame  20  are connected using fastener assembly  14 , which may include known fasteners and fastener receiving passageways (i.e. threaded through-holes). However, it possible to assemble the frame  20  and the base  10  using a variety of connection means, such as adhesives, fasteners, molding techniques, or other known attachment methods or connection components. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 2-4 , the base  10  and frame  20  attach together such that the sectional layer  30  is positioned between the base  10  and the top layer  22 , and the stringers  32  providing a distance there between. The top layer  22 , the sectional layer  30  and the base  10  enclose the article receiving sections  34  within an inner body of the frame  20 . Furthermore, when the base  10  connects with frame  20 , the article receiving openings  36  are completed along on the outer wall  22   c  of the frame  20 , with ends of the stringers  32  separating each article receiving opening  36 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 3 and 4 , the top layer  22  and the sectional layer  30  are integrally formed, as a monolithic structure. However, in other embodiments, it is possible that the top and sectional layers  22 ,  30  are separate layers of manufactured material, which are then rigidly connected together to form the frame  20 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 3-5 , the article viewing sections  24  and the article receiving section  34  correspond with each other, such that the stringers  32  align with the outer dividers  22   a  and the article receiving sections  34  align with the article viewing section  24 . 
     The dimensions of article viewing section  24  and the article receiving section  34  are different. The article receiving section  34  wholly receives the moveable article  40  through the article receiving opening  36 , which is then partially exposes the moveable article  40 . Furthermore, the article viewing section  24  is smaller than the article receiving section  34  so that the moveable article  40  cannot fall through the article viewing section  24 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 5 , the height x of the article viewing sections  24 , along top layer  22 , is smaller than the distance y between stringers  32  and the height of the article receiving opening  36 . As a result, the moveable articles  40  is received within the formed article receiving sections  34  of the frame  20 . The difference in dimensions between the moveable article  40  and the distance between the stringers  32  should be sized to prevent inadvertent movement of the moveable articles  40  when pushed into the article receiving sections  34  between the stringers  32  of the sectional layer  30 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , the moveable article  40  is substantially the same thickness as the sectional layer  30  so that the moveable article  40  can move through the article receiving opening  36  and into the article receiving section  34 . 
     As further shown in  FIG. 4-6 , the height z of the each moveable article  40  should be marginally smaller than the distance y between each stringer  32 , yet larger than the height x of the formed article receiving sections  34 . The moveable article  40  has a width b that is substantially as long as the width c, which is measured from an inner surface of the inner divider  22   b  to article receiving opening  36 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 5 and 6 , the moveable article  40  is well received by article receiving section  34 . The difference in height z of the moveable article  40  and distance y between stringers  32  should be minimized in the embodiment shown, that way the moveable article  40  may smoothly slide between the stringers  32  when received. As a result, the moveable article  40  is securable within a box like receiving space, but is also capable of freely moving in a linear direction. 
     As shown in  FIG. 4-6 , each fastening member receiving passageway  33  is formed within a body of the stringer  32 . The holding section  33   a  is sized and shaped to receive and secure one end of the fastening member  50 , while the tip receiving section  33   b  is sized to receive the other end of the fastening member  50 , such that the fastening member  50  move upward and downward with respect to the stringer  32 . In the embodiment shown, the holding section  33   a  is sized such that the fastening member  50  frictionally fits and is secured within the holding section  33   a . The tip receiving section  33   b  provides greater space between the moveable article  40  (when positioned in the moveable article receiving section  34 ) and an outer edge of the stringer  32 . The fastening member  50  is resilient, biasing the stringer, and can be depressed into the tip receiving section  33   b.    
     In the embodiment shown, the notch  26  corresponds with the tip receiving section  33   b  such that the tip receiving section  33   b  can be accessed by a finger or instrument to move the fastening member  50  downward into the tip receiving section  33   b.    
     As clearly shown in  FIGS. 4 and 6 , the fastening member  50  is an elongated member for engaging the moveable article  40 . When secured in the stringer  32 , the fastening member  50  resiliently biases the stringer  32  and, more particularly, away from the tip receiving section  33   b  and into the article receiving section  34  when the fastening member  50  is secured in the holding section  33   a  and moved toward the stringer  32 . 
     The fastening member  50  is provided on both the left and right sides of the stringer  32  in the shown embodiment. The securing end  50   a  is a polygonal shaped member that corresponds with the fastening member receiving passageway  33  and is received by the holding section  33   a  so that one end (i.e. the securing end  50   a ) the fastening member  50  is secured to frame  20 . As described, the securing end  50   a  and the holding section  33   a  are frictionally fit with each other so that the fastening member  50  is secured to the stringer  32 . In fact, the fastening member receiving passageway  33  and the fastening member  50  are keyed (i.e. shape) with each other in the shown embodiment. For instance, as shown, the securing end  50   a  and the holding section  33   a  are both rounded, such that the securing end  50   a  fits within the holding section  33   a , and cannot be pulled out of the inner stringer  32  through tip receiving section  33   b . However, it is also possible to use other designs and configuration that are known to the art to secure the fastening member  50  to the frame  20 . For example, in another embodiment, the securing end  50   a  could be integrally formed with the frame  2 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 4-6 , the finger end  52  extends into the article receiving section  34  in a resting position. The finger end  52  as a result is engageable with the moveable article  40  when the moveable article  40  is inserted within the article receiving section  34 . More particularly, the finger end  52  engages the first position notch  41 , the second position notch  42 , or the stopper  43 , depending on where the moveable article  40  is positioned within the article receiving section  34 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 4-6 , the first position notch  41  and the second position notch  42  are positioned along a lower surface of the moveable article  40   
     The first position notch  41  extends inward from the outer surface wall to receive the finger end  52  of the fastening member  50 . The first position notch  41  is shaped and sized to correspondingly receive the finger end  52 , such that the first engagement wall  41   c  abuts and holds the finger end  52 . The moveable article  40  is designed such that the when the finger end  52  engages the first position notch  41 , the moveable article  40  is positioned in a stored position. In addition, the first position notch  41  restricts the moveable article  40  from moving further into the article receiving section  34 , since the finger end  52  abuts the receiving section  41   a  and the first engagement wall  41   c.    
     The receiving section  41   a  is shaped to correspond with the finger end  52 , but is shaped such that the first engagement wall  41   c  engages and obstructs the moveable article  40  from further movement into the article receiving opening  36 , when the finger end  52  engages the first engagement wall  41   c . However, the tapered section  41   b , positioned opposite the first engagement wall  41   c  with respect to the receiving section  41   a , is inclined to mechanically move the finger end  52  toward the stringer  32  when the moveable article  40  is moved outward of the article receiving section  34  from the stored position. This results from the inclination of the tapered section  41   b , which allows the fastening member  50  to resiliently move downward from the receiving section  41   a , and ride along the outer wall toward the second position notch  42  when moveable article  40  is moved outward of the article receiving section  34 . 
     The second position notch  42  is shaped and sized to receive the finger end  52  of the fastening member  50 , such that the pair of stop walls  52   a  holds the finger end  52  when engaged with each other. The second position notch  42  is designed to wholly engage the finger end  52 . Since the second position notch  42  does not include a tapered section, the finger end  52  is held within the second position notch  42  until the fastening member  50  pressed downward by a user. 
     The stopper  43  also abuts the finger end  52  of fastening member  50  when the moveable article  40  is first inserted into article receiving section  34  to prevent inadvertent positioning of the moveable article  40  into article receiving section  34 . 
     In another embodiment, each moveable article  40  include indicia  46  secured on both major sides of the moveable article  40 , so that the moveable article  40  can be flipped and the first position notch  41 , the second position notch  42 , and the stopper  43  along an upper surface can engage the fastening member  50  when positioned in the article receiving section  34 . The indicia  46  can be secured to the moveable article  40  surface permanently or temporarily, either during pre-assembly or during operation. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 2 and 8 , the cover  60  is dimensioned to receive the frame  20  when the cover  60  is in a closed position (as shown in  FIG. 6 ). In the shown embodiment, the frame  20  is fully received into the receiving section  61 , when the cover  60  is rotated to over the frame  20 . In the embodiment shown, the receiving section  61  includes an inner depth substantially equal to thickness of the frame  20  to accomplish this feat. However, it is also possible that the cover  60  lies across frame  20 , such that the cover  60  restricts access and view of the article viewing sections  24 . 
     In the shown embodiment, each extension  62  receives a fastener  70  that then connects to the frame  20 . In the embodiment shown, the cover  60  attaches to the frame  20 , so that the cover  60  is rotatably mounted to the frame  20 , about the fastener  70 . In the shown embodiment, the securing device  12  holds the cover  60  to the frame  20 , when rotated to a closed position. However, it is possible that the cover  60  encloses the frame  20  in a variety of closing means, including rotation of the cover  60 , sliding of the cover  60 , and fastening of the cover  60  over the frame  20 , and can be secured using known techniques, such as fasteners, adhesive, Velcro, catches, locks, etc. 
     In the embodiment shown, the cover  60  includes a metal surface so that the removable sign  80  is temporarily secured thereto. However, other attaching means, such as fasteners and adhesive could be used to attach the removable sign  80  to the cover  60  if the cover  60  is magnetic. The removable sign  80  may be housed on the inside surface of the cover  60 , and placed on outer surface of the cover  60  when desired. The card slot  90  attaches to the cover  60  using an adhesive, but could be attached using a variety of fastening means. 
     Now with reference to the drawings, a method of use of the messaging sign  1  will be described. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , selected moveable articles  40  are fitted through the article receiving opening  36  and into the article receiving sections  34  of the frame  20 . The base  10  operates as support surface for the moveable article  40  and adjacent stringers  32  act as walls upon which the moveable article  40  may slide in and out of the article receiving section  34 . The moveable article  40  is then hidden from view until moved from the stored position to a display position outside the frame  20 . 
     In operation, a user rotates the cover  60  away from the frame  20 , exposing frame  20  and article receiving sections  34 . The article receiving section  34  is visible through the article viewing section  24 , as shown in  FIG. 2 , so that any inserted moveable article  40  is visible and can be moved by the user. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 4 and 5 , the fastening member  50  extends into the article receiving section  34  and resiliently biased away from the stringer  32  in a resting position. The fastening member  50  prevents the moveable article  40  from completely moving into the article receiving section  34 . 
     In order to install the moveable article  40  into the frame  20 , the moveable article  40  is first inserted through article receiving section  34 . The moveable article  40  moves into the article receiving section  34  and the finger end  52  abuts the stopper  43  of the moveable article  40 , hence, stopping the moveable article  40 . Since, the fastening member  50  is accessible through the article viewing section  24 ; the user can depress the fastening member  50  downward into the tip receiving section  33   b , with assistance from the notch  26 , and preventing the fastening member  50  from engaging the moveable article  40 . While the fastening member  50  is depressed, the user moves the moveable article  40  further through the article receiving section  34 , until the finger end  52  and the receiving section  41   a  of the first position notch  41  can engage each other. As result, the fastening member  50  passes over the stopper  43  and the second position notch  42 , and the moveable article  40  is then capable of engaging the first position notch  41 . When engaged, the moveable article  40  is held within the article receiving section  34  in the stored position. This ensures that the indicia  46 , movement member  47 , and the second movement indicator  49  are visible through the article viewing section  24 . This is performed for every article receiving section  34 , until all the moveable articles  40  and secured in the article receiving sections  34 . 
     Next, the user selects one or more moveable articles  40  to display in the displayed position. This will typically depend upon the desired or required indicia  46 . The user then moves the moveable article  40  in a direction according to second movement member  49 , which pushes the indicia  46  through the article receiving opening  36 , and into the display position. Movement of the moveable article  40  can be ergonomically performed using the movement member  47 , for instance, and easily accomplished with one hand. 
     With reference to  FIG. 6 , the first position notch  41  facilitates movement of the moveable article  40  into the display position by automatically depressing the fastening member  50  downward. This is performed when the finger end  52  (from a resting position against the first position notch  41 ) travels along the tapered section  41   b  of the first position notch  41 , forcing the finger end  52  to ride along tapered section  41   b , and move toward the stringer  32  and into the tip receiving section  33   b . The fastening member  50  then travels along the outer surface wall and into the second position notch  42 . Once the fastening member  50  engages the second position notch  42 , the moveable article  40  is partially positioned out of the article receiving opening  36 , such that the indicia  46  is shown outside of the messaging sign  1 . In the display position, only the first movement indicator  48  and movement member  47  are displayable through the article viewing section  24  and the indicia  46  is shown outside of the frame  20  walls. The second movement indicator  49  is hidden from view, such that the first movement indicator  48  display a direction that is required to position the moveable article  40  wholly back into the article receiving section  34  from the retracted position ((i.e. toward the inner divider  22   b ) using the movement member  47 . 
     In order to move the moveable article  40  back into the frame  20 , such that the moveable article  40  is wholly received back into the article receiving section  34 , the user depresses the fastening member  50  into the tip receiving section  33   b  and slides the moveable article  40  in a direction as indicated by the first movement indicator  48  using the movement member  47 . In the embodiment shown, the second position notch  42  prevents movement toward the inner divider  22   b  or further out of the article receiving opening  36 . 
     In order to completely remove the moveable article  40  from the article receiving section  34  and the article receiving opening  36 , the user must depress the fastening member  50  from engagement with the moveable article  40  and slide the moveable article  40  completely through article receiving opening  36 . Accordingly, different moveable article  40  with different indicia  46  can be used with the frame  20 . Additionally, in another embodiment, the moveable article  40  could be flipped over for use in the same article receiving section  34 , with different indicia  46  provided on an opposite thereof. Different combinations and positions are available as a result of the aforementioned described designs. 
     Once the user moves selected moveable articles  40  to the display position, the user may then rotate the cover  60  to the closed position (as clearly shown in  FIG. 6 ). Since the fastening member  50  engages the moveable articles  40  into position a retracted position, a person cannot accidentally reposition the displayed moveable article  40  to a retracted position without first opening the cover  60 , and then disengaging the fastening member  50 . 
     Additionally, the cover  60  further prevents accidental movement of the moveable articles  40  from retracted position to the display position. Rotating the cover  60 , from an open position to a closed position, and vice-versa, can be easily performed easily with one hand. 
     To change any of the displayed indicia  46 , the cover  60  is rotated back into the open position, and the fastening member  50  is pressed downward to disengage with the second position notch  42 . The moveable article  40  may be pushed back through the article receiving opening  36  and into the article receiving section  34 . The process described above can be performed numerous times to achieve desired results. 
     Disengagement and movement of the moveable article  40  may be performed with one hand, wherein one finger (not shown) presses the fastening member  50  downward as another finger (not shown) pushes the moveable article  40  back through the article receiving opening  36  and into the article receiving section  34 . The cover  60  is closed again until further operation of the moveable articles  40  is required. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 1 and 8 , the removable sign  80 , which may be housed on the inside of the cover  60 , may be repositioned along a front surface of the cover  60 . Although the embodiment shows only one removable sign  80 , it is possible to provide the user with a plurality of removable signs  80 . 
     In another embodiment, the card slot  90  attaches to the outer surface of the cover  60 , as shown in  FIG. 2 . The user can select additional moveable article  40  stored in the card clot  90  for display with the frame  20 . Additionally, the user can store paperwork in the card slot  90 . 
     Now with reference to  9 - 14 , another messaging sign  100  according to the invention is shown. The messaging sign  100  includes like component pieces of the messaging sign  1  described above. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, only those features that differ from the messaging sign  1  will be described, while like components will be omitted. 
     The messaging sign  100  according to the invention is shown and includes the following major components that differ from the messaging sign  1 : a rear section  105  and a cover  160 . As will be described, more or less of the aforementioned components can be used without departing from the spirit of the invention. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 9-14 , the rear section  105  includes a rear plate  108  and a base  110 . While the rear plate  108  and base  110  are separate components, one skilled in the art should appreciate that the rear plate  108  and base  110  could be considered separate sections of a single monolithic component. 
     In the shown embodiment, the rear plate  108  is a flat planar article having a mounting means disposed along a surface thereof. The mounting means could be a fastener element, such as screws, rivets, nails, hook and loop fastener, or other fasteners known to the art, or an adhesive, such as a tape, glue, a thermoset, a removable adhesive, or magnet. The rear plate  108  is a solid rectangular panel having a double-sided adhesive tape (not shown) disposed on the rear surface thereof. The rear plate  108  is constructed from a manufactured material, such as plastic, but it could be understood by one skilled in the art that the manufactured material could be prepared from other materials, such as a metal, an organic material, or a composite. 
     In the shown embodiment, the base  110  includes a planar body  112 , a pair of catch receiving sections  114 , and a plurality of catch stops  116 . 
     The planar body  112  is a flat planar article having a mounting means disposed along a surface thereof. The mounting means could be a fastener element, such as screws, rivets, nails, hook and loop fastener, or other fasteners known to the art, or an adhesive, such as a tape, glue, a thermoset, a removable adhesive, or magnet. In the embodiment shown, the base  110  is a solid rectangular panel having dimensions similar to the rear plate  108  and is constructed from a manufactured material, such as plastic, but it could be understood by one skilled in the art that the manufactured material could be prepared from other materials, such as a metal, an organic material, or a composite. 
     The pair of catch receiving sections  114  is elongated openings extending along opposite walls of the planar body  112 . In particular, in the shown embodiment, each catch receiving section  114  is a groove or notch extending through the planar body  112  and positioned along a top or lower surface walls of the planar body  112 . One skilled in the art should appreciate that other designs are possible. For instance, the catch receiving section  114  could be a groove or notch that does not completely extend through the planar body  112 , but rather a depression extending along a surface of the planar body  112 . 
     In another embodiment, the catch receiving section  114  may be a separate component that attaches to the planar body  112 , such a track, and is positioned along a rear surface of the planar body  112 . Furthermore, in yet another embodiment, the catch receiving section  114  could be positioned along surfaces of the planar body  112  than is shown. For instance, the catch receiving section  114  may be positioned along an interior section of the planar body  112 , which is positioned away from the edges of the planar body  112 . 
     As clearly shown in  FIG. 13 , each of the plurality of catch stops  116  are positioned at opposite ends of catch receiving section  114 . Each catch stop  116  is a wall provided by a juxtaposition of the planar body  112  and the catch receiving section  114 . In the shown embodiment, each catch stop  116  is an interior wall of the planar body  112 . However, one skilled in the art should appreciate that other designs are possible. In another embodiment, the catch stop  116  is a separate piece from the planar body  112 , such as a pair of blocks, which are positioned at opposite ends of a top edge of the planar body  112 . Accordingly, in yet another embodiment, the catch receiving section  114  could be provided between a pair of catch stops that are blocks attached to the planar body  112 , 
     Now with reference to  FIGS. 11-14 , the cover  160  will be described. As shown, the cover  160  includes a cover section  162 , a pair of frame receiving sections  164 , and a pair of catches  170 . 
     In the embodiment shown, the cover section  162  is a rectangular shaped body constructed from a manufactured material, such as plastic, but it could be understood by one skilled in the art that the manufactured material could be prepared from other materials, such as a metal, an organic material, or a composite. The cover section  162  includes a planar front and rear surface. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 11 and 12 , the securing device  12  is positioned in the cover section  162 . In the shown embodiment, the securing device  12  includes a mounting means, such as a magnet, disposed in cover section  162  or flush with an inner surface thereof. In the shown embodiment, four securing devices  12  are positioned along corners of the cover section  162  to correspond with the securing devices  12  positioned in the frame  20 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 13 and 14 , the pair of frame receiving section  164  includes a sidewall  166  and a rear wall  168 . In the shown embodiment, one frame receiving section  164  is positioned on a top edge of the cover section  162 , while the other is positioned opposite along a bottom edge of the cover section  162 . As shown, the sidewall  166  extends from the edge of the cover section  162  at an approximate 90 degree angle. In the shown embodiment, the sidewall  166  is a planar body extending from one side surface of the cover section  162  to an opposite side surface thereof. The inner surface of the sidewall  166  is orthoganol to an inner surface of the cover section  162  in the shown embodiment, such that sidewall  166  corresponds to the shape and dimensions of the frame  20 . The rear wall extends downward from an edge of the sidewall  166  at an approximate 90 degree angle in the shown embodiment. Like the sidewall  166 , the rear wall  168  is a planar body that extends from one side surface of the sidewall  166  to an opposite side surface thereof. The inner surface of the rear wall  168  is orthoganol to the inner surface of the cover sidewall  166  in the shown embodiment, such that sidewall  166  and rear wall  168  correspond and receive the frame  20 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 11-14 , the catch  170  is a protrusion monolithically connected to the rear wall  168 . In the shown embodiment, the catch  170  is a square tab extending away and parallel from the rear wall  168 . As shown, two catches  170  provided with each one positioned at opposite ends of the cover  160 . While the catch  170  is positioned about a relative center of the rear wall, between opposite ends thereof, one or more catches  170  could be used along the rear wall  168  and positioned along different linear positions thereof. Also, one skilled in the art should appreciate that the catch  170  may have other ornamental designs. Additionally, the catch  170  may be a different component than the rear wall  168  and attaches to the rear wall  168  using a fastener, such as a screw, nut and bolt, adhesive, mechanical weld, or other known fastening technique. 
     Now with reference to  FIGS. 11-13 , assembly of the messaging sign  100  will be described with emphasis on the rear section  105  and the cover  160 . 
     With reference to  FIGS. 9-14 , the cover  160  is shown and is dimensioned to receive the frame  20  (as shown in  FIG. 13 ). In the shown embodiment, the frame  20  is fully received by and covered the cover section  162 , the pair of frame receiving sections  164 , and the pair of catches  170 . In the embodiment shown, the pair of frame receiving sections  164  has an inner depth substantially equal to thickness of the frame  20  to accomplish this feat. However, it is also possible that the cover  160  lies across frame  20 , such that the cover  160  restricts access and view of the article viewing sections  24 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 11-13 , the base  110  and the frame  20  have common dimensions, including a height and width, so that the base  110  and frame  20  correspond with each other. In the embodiment shown, the base  110  has a smaller thickness than the frame  20 . In the embodiment shown, the base  110  and the frame  20  are connected using fastener assembly  14 , which may include known fasteners and fastener receiving passageways (i.e. threaded through-holes). However, it possible to assemble the frame  20  and the base  110  using a variety of connection means, such as adhesives, fasteners, molding techniques, or other known attachment methods or connection components. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 11-13 , the base  110  and frame  20  attach together such that the sectional layer  30  is positioned between the base  110  and the top layer  22 , and the stringers  32  providing a distance there between. The top layer  22 , the sectional layer  30  and the base  110  enclose the article receiving sections  34  within an inner body of the frame  20 . Furthermore, when the base  110  connects with frame  20 , the article receiving openings  36  are completed along on the outer wall  22   c  of the frame  20 , with ends of the stringers  32  separating each article receiving opening  36 . 
     As a result, when the base  110  is positioned with the frame  20 , with the cover  160  receiving the frame  20 , the catch  170  aligns with the catch receiving sections  114 . Then the rear plate  108  attaches to the base  110  using fasteners  109 , such as screws, rivets, nails, hook and loop fastener, or other fasteners known to the art, or an adhesive, such as a tape, glue, a thermoset, a removable adhesive, or magnet. When the rear plate  108  and the base  110  are connected, the cover  160  is secured to the rear section  105 . 
     The foregoing illustrates some of the possibilities for practicing the invention. Many other embodiments and fields of use for the messaging sign  1  are possible and within the scope and spirit of the invention. It is, therefore, intended that the foregoing description be regarded as illustrative rather than limiting, and that the scope of the invention is given by the appended claims together with their full range of equivalents.