Patent Description:
It is known to secure a fastening device to the rear surface of the frame of an artwork. The fastening device is then used to secure the artwork to a mounting panel which in turn may be housed in a container, often constructed from wood. In other arrangements, the artwork may be wrapped in in a layer of acid free paper and a layer of soft material, e.g. bubble wrap, and then housed in a sleeve, e.g. made from cardboard. This package may then be housed in the container. The package may be held on a bed of foam in the container or the corners of the package may be held within the corners of the container by blocks of resilient material.

Such known packaging is usually assembled and constructed by specialist art packaging and shipping firms and in many cases the container is effectively custom built for the particular application. Such packaging can thus be very expensive. Also, as the artwork may be of very high value, insurance companies have a significant influence over the manner in which the artwork is packed.

<CIT> discloses a painting support board for holding artist's panels or canvases with panel securing clips placed in receiving fastener holes at fixed locations of the painting support board to allow attaching several different sizes of paint canvases and panels. According to the present invention, there is provided apparatus and a container for holding artwork as specified in the claims.

The invention will now be further described, merely by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:.

The apparatus described herein is designed to hold an artwork during transportation and storage. <CIT> discloses an arrangement for holding artwork having a frame to which a plurality of fastening devices have been secured, each fastening device having an aperture in a part which protrudes from a side of the frame. <FIG> show artwork with such a fastening device secured thereto.

The fastening device shown in <FIG> comprises a first component <NUM> and a second component <NUM>. The first component <NUM> is in the form of a metal plate which is secured to a rear surface of a picture frame of an artwork, eg by screws. The second component <NUM> is also in the form of a metal plate and is slidably mounted to the first plate. The fastening device also comprises a resilient member in the form of a spring clip <NUM> which, forms part of limiting means for inhibiting sliding movement of the second component <NUM> relative to the first component <NUM>.

<FIG> shows the fastening device when secured to a rear surface 40A of the frame <NUM> of an artwork. The fastening device comprises a first component <NUM> and a second component <NUM>. The first component <NUM> may be in the form of a metal plate which is securable to a rear surface 40A of a picture frame <NUM> of an artwork, eg by screws <NUM>. The second component <NUM> may also be in the form of a metal plate and arranged to be slidably mounted to the first plate. As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the second component <NUM> comprises first and second elongate apertures 20C, 20D, these apertures being elongated in a direction substantially perpendicular to the length of the second component <NUM>, third and fourth elongate apertures which are elongated in a direction substantially parallel to the length of the second component <NUM>, and a plurality of screw holes <NUM>.

The fastening device also comprises a spring clip <NUM> which releasably holds the second component <NUM> in an extended position (as shown in <FIG>) and a retracted position (as shown in <FIG>) relative to the frame <NUM> of the artwork and which may be used inhibit the second component <NUM> from sliding too far and becoming detached from the first component <NUM>. Abutments 20B at the ends of the second component <NUM> may also be used to prevent the second component <NUM> from sliding out of the first component <NUM>.

As mentioned, <FIG> shows the second component <NUM> in an extended, or protruding, position in which it projects beyond the edge of the frame <NUM>. The second component <NUM> is releasably held in the extended position by engagement of the spring clip <NUM> with the second elongate aperture 20D of the second component.

To move the second component <NUM> from the extended position to the retracted position, the spring clip <NUM> is pressed, eg by a user's finger, through the second elongate aperture 20D to depress it and disengage it from the aperture (as illustrated by the arrow in <FIG>). The second component <NUM> can then be slid towards the retracted position (as illustrated by the arrow in <FIG> shows the second component <NUM> in the retracted position in which it no longer projects from the side of the frame <NUM> of the artwork. As described above, the second component <NUM> is releasably held in the retracted position by engagement of the spring clip <NUM> in the first elongate aperture 20C. It can be released from this position so it can be slid toward the extended position in the same manner as described in relation to <FIG>.

<FIG> shows the underside of the second component <NUM>. This figure shows the first and second abutments 20B, the first and second elongate apertures 20C, 20D, and the third and fourth elongate apertures 20E, 20F mentioned above. <FIG> also shows first and second recesses <NUM>, <NUM> which interrupt angled edges 20A of the second component which enable the second component to be assembled with the first component (as described further in <CIT>). <FIG> also shows first and second grooves 20J, <NUM> for engaging with the spring clip <NUM> when the second component <NUM> is in a central position (midway between the extended and retracted positions) and third and fourth recesses <NUM>, <NUM> in the underside of the second component <NUM> in areas around the first and second elongate apertures 20C, 20D, these recesses <NUM>, <NUM> being bordered by partially circular side walls 20N, 20P and a side wall 20Q, 20R which form part of the abutments 20B.

The functions of the various apertures and recesses of the second component <NUM> will become apparent from the following description of how fastening devices are used to secure the artwork to a mounting panel <NUM> using a plurality of securing devices <NUM> and as shown in <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrate an arrangement of the apparatus for holding an artwork. The apparatus comprises a plurality of securing devices <NUM>, each securing device comprising an engagement part <NUM> for engaging the second component <NUM> of the fastening device and a locking part <NUM> which is rotatable about an axis by means of a handle <NUM> from a first angular position to a second angular position. The securing device <NUM> is further illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>.

The securing device <NUM> may be used to secure a respective fastening device to a mounting panel <NUM> by aligning the aperture 20C in the fastening device with a retention member of the mounting panel <NUM>. The locking part <NUM> is inserted through the aperture 20C in the fastening device to a position adjacent the retention member so that the engagement part <NUM> of the securing device engages a surface of the fastening device about the aperture 20C therein. The locking part <NUM> is then rotated from the first angular position to the second angular position so the locking part <NUM> engages with and is retained by said retention member (as will be described further below).

The manner in which the securing device is used to hold the artwork on the mounting panel via a fastening device is further described with reference to <FIG>.

As shown in <FIG>, the mounting panel <NUM> may comprise a plurality of retention members with which the securing devices <NUM> interact to releasably secure the fastening devices (and hence the artwork) to the panel <NUM>. In the arrangement shown, the retention members comprise a series of parallel slots <NUM> defined by flanges 51A, 51B on each side of the slot <NUM> as shown in the Figures. The mounting panel <NUM> may for example comprise an aluminium panel <NUM> formed by an extrusion process to have a series of parallel slots <NUM> therein. It will be appreciated that the underside of the second component <NUM> (as described in relation to <FIG>), is shown uppermost in <FIG> as the artwork (and the fastening device attached thereto) has been turned over so the upper surface of the second component <NUM> engages the mounting panel <NUM>.

As mentioned, the securing device <NUM> comprises a locking part, eg in the form of a T-bar <NUM>, at a distal end of a shaft <NUM> for engaging in the slots <NUM> of the mounting panel <NUM>, an engagement part <NUM> which, in use, engages the fastening device and a handle <NUM> at the proximal end of the shaft <NUM> for rotating the T-bar <NUM> through <NUM> degrees (as will be described further below). The engagement part <NUM> is able to move axially a small distance (typically a few mm) relative to the shaft <NUM> against the action of a spring <NUM> or other resilient member (see <FIG> and <FIG>) but is arranged to rotate with the shaft <NUM> as the handle <NUM> is rotated.

<FIG> and <FIG> show the fastening device located on the mounting panel <NUM> so the second component <NUM> lies substantially parallel to the slots <NUM> and so that the second elongate aperture 20D thereof lies over one of the slots <NUM> and it shows the securing device <NUM>, with the T-bar <NUM> and handle <NUM> substantially parallel to the slots <NUM> prior to being engaged with the fastening device.

<FIG> show the securing device <NUM> once it has been moved into engagement with the second component <NUM> of the fastening device. In the position shown, the engagement part <NUM> engages a surface of the abutment 20B and the T-bar <NUM> passes through (at least partially) the second aperture 20D and (at least partially) extends into a slot <NUM> in the mounting panel <NUM>. It will be appreciated that to permit this, the second aperture 20D has to be large enough to receive the T-bar <NUM>, at least when in the orientation shown, ie when substantially parallel to the length of the second component <NUM>. Similarly, the slot <NUM> in the mounting panel <NUM> needs to be wide enough to receive the T-bar <NUM> in this orientation.

To secure the fastening device so that it secures the artwork to the mounting panel <NUM>, the handle <NUM> is then pushed downwards, as illustrated by an arrow in <FIG>, towards the fastening device so the T-bar <NUM> is moved further downwards into the slot <NUM> to a position in which an upper surface 61A of the T-bar (in the orientation shown) is at a slightly lower level than that defined by the undersides of the flanges 51A, 51B at the sides of the slot <NUM>.

As illustrated by an arrow in <FIG>, the handle <NUM> is then rotated through <NUM> degrees clockwise which in turn rotates the T-bar <NUM> through <NUM> degrees so that the arms of the T-bar are located beneath the flanges 51A, 51B at the side so of the slot <NUM>. As mentioned above, the engagement part <NUM> rotates with the handle <NUM> so it also rotated through <NUM> degrees. This rotation of the engagement part <NUM> rotates it to a position in which it is able to move axially (under the action of the spring <NUM>) so it moves downwards into the fourth recess <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. It will be appreciated that this is due to the non-circular shape of the engagement part <NUM> which, as it rotates, no longer rests on a surface of the abutment 20B but is able to drop down into the fourth recess <NUM>.

In this position, the securing device <NUM> secures the fastening device (and hence the artwork) to the mounting panel <NUM>.

In order to release the securing device <NUM> it needs to be turned <NUM> degrees anti-clockwise so that the T-bar <NUM> disengages from the undersides of the flanges 51A, 51B and can be withdrawn through the slot <NUM>. However, a side face 63B the non-circular perimeter of the engagement part <NUM> engages the end wall 20R of the abutment and prevents the engagement part <NUM> from being rotated. Thus, before the securing device <NUM> can be released, the engagement part <NUM> has to be moved vertically to disengage it from the end wall 20R. The engagement part <NUM> is shaped to have two wings 63A at its upper end which can be engaged by a user's fingers as the user holds the handle <NUM> so the user can lift the engagement part <NUM> (against he action of the spring <NUM>) so it disengages from the fourth recess <NUM> and can be rotated anti-clockwise through <NUM> degrees back to the position shown in <FIG> so that the T-bar <NUM> can be withdrawn from the slot <NUM> and the securing device <NUM> can be lifted away from the fastening device.

<FIG> are cross-sectional views through the securing device, second component <NUM> and the mounting panel <NUM> when in the secured position shown in <FIG>; <FIG> being taken on a plane perpendicular to the length of the slots <NUM> and <FIG> on a plane parallel to the length of the slots <NUM>. <FIG> shows the handle <NUM>, the engagement part <NUM> and its wings 63A, the spring <NUM>, the shaft <NUM> and the locking part <NUM> described above. In addition, <FIG> shows that the shaft has a widened portion 62B above but spaced from the locking part <NUM> at the distal end thereof, a washer <NUM> and a rubber collar <NUM> mounted on the shaft <NUM> and a nut <NUM>. The rubber collar <NUM> is held in place against the widened portion 62B of the shaft by the nut <NUM> and washer. As shown in <FIG>, the components of the securing device <NUM> are held together by the shaft <NUM> and nut 62A threaded onto the upper end of the shaft <NUM>. The shaft <NUM> has a non-circular cross-section (see <FIG>) and fits through correspondingly shaped through holes in the handle <NUM> and engagement part <NUM> so that when the handle <NUM> is rotated the shaft <NUM> and the engagement part <NUM> rotate with it. The engagement part <NUM> is however axially movable on the shaft <NUM> and is urged towards the downward position by the spring <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the widened portion 62B of the shaft <NUM> is located within aperture 20C in the locked position and the underside of the rubber block <NUM> engages the surface of the second component about the aperture 20C.

<FIG> shows a cross-section through the mounting panel <NUM> and shows the slots <NUM> therein, and the flanges 51A and 51B at the sides of the slot <NUM>.

<FIG> are exploded perspective views of the securing device <NUM>, <FIG> being from above and <FIG> being from below the securing device, and shows the components described above in relation to <FIG>.

As described in relation to <FIG> and <FIG>, the first and second apertures 20C, 20D are elongated in a direction at an angle to the direction of sliding of the second component <NUM>, for example in a direction perpendicular thereto. The elongated nature of these apertures 20C, 20D thus makes it easier to ensure that the aperture 20C lies over a slot <NUM> in the mounting panel <NUM>. Two fastening devices will typically be secured to one side of the frame <NUM> of an artwork and the provision of elongate apertures 20C means that it is not necessary for these to be spaced apart by an exact multiple of the spacing of the slots <NUM> of the mounting panel <NUM> in order to ensure that the apertures 20D of both fastening devices lie over a slot in the mounting panel <NUM>.

In a typical case, four fastening devices will be secured to the frame <NUM> of an artwork, two on each of two opposite sides of the frame <NUM> and the frame <NUM> will be mounted on the mounting panel <NUM> so that second components <NUM> of each of the fastening devices lie parallel to the length of the slots <NUM> in the mounting panel <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>). However, in some cases, it may be desired to secure one or more fastening devices to the other sides of the frame <NUM> so that the second components <NUM> of these devices lie perpendicular to the length of the slots <NUM> in the mounting panel <NUM>. It is for his reason that the third and fourth elongated apertures 20E, 20F are provided in the second component <NUM>. As these are elongated in a direction parallel to the length of the second component <NUM>, they help ensure that the apertures 20E or 20F lie over a slot <NUM> in the mounting panel <NUM> so that the fastening device can be secured thereto by a securing device <NUM> in the manner described above in relation to <FIG>.

In the arrangement shown, the first and second apertures 20C, 20D are located toward the respective ends of the second component <NUM> and the third and fourth apertures 20E, 20F are located between these and the mid-point of the second component <NUM>. However, the apertures may be arranged in other ways, eg in a reverse arrangement in which the third and fourth apertures (which are elongated in the direction of the length of the second component <NUM>) lie toward the ends of the second component <NUM> and the first and second apertures (which are elongated in a direction at an angle to the length of the second component <NUM>) lie between these and the midpoint of the second component <NUM>.

In addition to the first and second apertures 20C, 20D and third and fourth apertures 20E, 20F, the second component <NUM> may also be provided with screw holes <NUM> so the second component <NUM> can be secured to a mounting panel <NUM> by way of screws or other screw thread fasteners. This is an optional method of fixing which may be used in addition to or in place of the securing devices <NUM> described above.

As shown in the drawings, the dimensions of the screw holes <NUM> are typically significantly smaller than the dimensions of the apertures 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F provided for receiving the locking part <NUM> of the securing device <NUM>. Screw holes <NUM> will typically have a diameter of around <NUM>-<NUM> whereas the first and second apertures 20C, 20D (and the third and fourth apertures 20E, 20F) may typically have a width (in the shorter direction) in the range <NUM> - <NUM>, and optionally around <NUM>, and a length (in the longer dimension) in the range <NUM> - <NUM>, and optionally around <NUM>. Such dimensions enable the first and second apertures to be aligned with slots which typically have a pitch in the range <NUM> - <NUM> (and optionally around <NUM>) without the need for precise location of the fastening devices on the artwork as described above.

As mentioned above, the second component <NUM> may be symmetrical about is centre line so that it does not matter which way round it is assembled with the first component <NUM>. However, other arrangements can be envisaged, in particular arrangements in which the layout of holes, apertures and/or recesses therein is not symmetrical.

As described above, in the an arrangement, the retention members on the mounting panel <NUM> are provided by slots therein (and flanges defining the sides of the slot). In such an arrangement, the mounting panel may comprise a series of flanges coplanar with a face of the panel <NUM> separated by a series of parallel slots. However, other forms of retention members can be envisaged.

The slots may, for example, not be continuous but may be interrupted, eg to form a lines of shorter slots. An array of other shaped slots or apertures may also be provided across the mounting panel. In a further arrangement, the retention members may comprise members fastened to the surface of the mounting panel each of which is shaped to engage with the T-bar <NUM> (or other form of locking part) of the securing device <NUM>. It should also be appreciated that the retention members may not be provided across all areas of the mounting panel. In an arrangement, one or more retention members may be attached to a mounting panel only at locations in which the securing device will be located for a particular artwork.

The T-bar may comprise two projecting arms but other forms of locking part arranged to engage and disengage from a respective retaining part can be envisaged.

Other arrangements for enabling the engagement part of the securing device to move axially relative to the locking part can be envisaged. The engagement part may comprise a resiliently compressible member (such as a spring or a rubber component) compression of which in the axial direction provides said axial movement. In an arrangement (such as that described in relation to <FIG>), a compressing force is required to be applied to the securing device in the axial direction to compress said compressible member in order to move the locking part axially so that it is able to engage with a retention member.

In such arrangements, it is necessary to move the engagement means axially so it is no longer inhibited from being rotated by its engagement with the fastening device in order to permit rotation of the locking part to release it from the retention member.

The retention member may also be shaped so that when the locking part is fully engaged therewith, the locking part is able to move to some extent in a second axial direction (opposite to the first axial direction) upon release of said compressing force in the first axial direction. The retention member thus inhibits rotation of the locking part in a counterclockwise direction until the locking part is pressed downwards slightly. This provides an alternative, or additional, means for preventing inadvertent release of the locking part from the retention member.

Parts of the securing device <NUM>, such as the handle <NUM> and engagement part <NUM>, may be formed of a plastics material, for example polyoxymethylene POM (which is tough and has low friction properties). Other parts of the securing device, eg the bolt 64A and the locking part <NUM>, may be made of metal, eg steel.

The apparatus described above, comprising a plurality of securing devices <NUM> and a mounting panel <NUM> may be supplied alone or may be supplied in combination with a plurality of fastening devices such as those described in relation to <FIG> and <FIG>. Other forms of fastening devices may be used which can be secured to the frame of an artwork and which have an aperture in a part which protrudes from a side of the frame through which the locking part of the securing device can be inserted.

The arrangements discussed above utilise one or more fastening devices secured to the frame of an artwork. <FIG> depict a further arrangement for holding artwork that may be used instead of, or in addition to, the arrangements discussed above, using an apparatus according to the invention.

The arrangement depicted in <FIG> is configured to support an artwork <NUM> on a mounting panel <NUM> such as that discussed above, including the variations of the mounting panel <NUM> discussed above, and may be incorporated within a container for holding artwork during transportation or storage in the same manner as discussed above.

In order to secure the artwork <NUM>, one or more clamps <NUM> are provided. Each of the clamps <NUM> is configured to be movable between an unengaged state in which artwork <NUM> can be provided to, or removed from the apparatus, and an engaged state, in which the clamp <NUM> secures the artwork <NUM> to the apparatus. It should be appreciated that the artwork <NUM> may be secured by the clamps without further packaging. Alternatively, the artwork may be encased in suitable packaging first such that the clamps <NUM> secure a package of artwork <NUM>. It should also be appreciated that such a package may include more than one artwork. Alternatively or additionally, multiple separate packages of artwork may be secured to the mounting panel <NUM> by the one or more clamps <NUM>.

It should be appreciated that by using this arrangement, there may be flexibility in the size and shape of the artwork that can be secured to the mounting panel <NUM>. Furthermore, the system may be independent of any fastening devices attached to, for example, the frames of the artwork. This may be beneficial when suitable fastening devices are not already attached to the artwork because it may be undesirable to add or replace a fastening, for example because it may be difficult to obtain permission to do so.

Each clamp comprises a base <NUM> and a gripping section <NUM> that may be moved relative to the base <NUM>, as discussed further below. In the engaged state of the clamp <NUM>, when the clamp <NUM> is securing the artwork to the apparatus, the artwork <NUM> is clamped between the support surface of the mounting panel <NUM> and the gripping section <NUM> of the clamp <NUM>. In particular, while a first side <NUM> of the artwork <NUM> is supported on the mounting panel <NUM>, the gripping section <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> presses on a second side <NUM> of the artwork <NUM>, which is on the opposite side of the artwork <NUM> to the first side <NUM>. For convenience, these may be referred to below as the bottom side <NUM> and the top side <NUM> of the artwork <NUM>, based on the orientation of the artwork while it is being secured to the mounting panel <NUM>, but it will be appreciated that the actual orientation of the artwork <NUM> may change, for example once the artwork is secured in the apparatus.

The one or more clamps <NUM> are configured such that the gripping section <NUM> can be advanced towards or retracted away from the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM>. This may enable both the movement of the clamp <NUM> between the engaged state and the unengaged state and also enable the clamp <NUM> to secure different sizes of artwork <NUM>. For example, in the arrangement depicted in <FIG>, the clamp <NUM> is securing a relatively thin artwork <NUM> whereas in the arrangement depicted in <FIG>, the clamp <NUM> is securing a relatively thick artwork <NUM>. In an arrangement, the clamp <NUM> may be configured such that the distance between the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> and the gripping section <NUM> is infinitely adjustable within the range of movement that the clamp <NUM> is configured to provide.

In an arrangement, as shown in <FIG>, each clamp <NUM> may comprise a pair of rods <NUM> that extend from the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> in a direction substantially perpendicular to the surface of the mounting panel <NUM>. The gripping section <NUM> may be configured to slide along the rods <NUM> to provide the require adjustment in the separation between the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> and the gripping section <NUM>, as discussed above.

Implementing the clamp <NUM> utilising two rods <NUM> between the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> and the gripping section <NUM> may beneficially provide a good compromise between benefits of simplifying the clamp <NUM> and minimising the number of parts on the one hand and providing adequate strength and stability for the clamp <NUM> on the other hand. It should be appreciated, however, that a clamp <NUM> based on the design depicted in <FIG> may have any number of rods <NUM>. It should also be appreciated that, although the rods <NUM> depicted in <FIG> have a hexagonal cross-section, this is not essential and the rods <NUM> may, in general, have any cross-section.

In an arrangement, the clamp <NUM> further includes a lock mechanism <NUM> that is configured to control the movement of the gripping section <NUM> relative to the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM>. The lock mechanism <NUM> may be configured such that, when it is engaged, it fixes the position of the gripping section <NUM> relative to the rods <NUM>, thereby fixing the position of the gripping section <NUM> relative to the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM>, for example when the clamp <NUM> is in the engaged state.

As discussed further below, the lock mechanism <NUM> may be configured such that, when it is engaged, the gripping section <NUM> can be advanced closer to the base <NUM> of the clamp but cannot be moved further away from the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM>. Such an arrangement may enable a user to push down the gripping section <NUM> onto the artwork <NUM> being secured by the clamp <NUM> until a desired clamping force is obtained, at which point the gripping section <NUM> will remain locked in place rather than moving away from the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> when the user releases the pressure.

The lock mechanism <NUM> may include a release <NUM> that, when operated by a user, disengages the lock mechanism <NUM>, enabling the gripping section <NUM> to be moved further away from the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM>.

<FIG> depict an arrangement of a lock mechanism <NUM>. It will be appreciated that alternative arrangements of a lock mechanism may be used. As shown in <FIG>, the lock mechanism <NUM> comprises a locking plate <NUM> having apertures <NUM> arrange such that a rod <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> passes through each of the apertures <NUM>. The locking plate <NUM> is mounted to the gripping section <NUM> by pivots <NUM> such that the locking plate <NUM> can be moved between positions at different angles to the elongate direction of the rods <NUM>.

The locking plate <NUM> is configured such that in one angular positon, the rods <NUM> can pass easily through the apertures <NUM> but, in a second angular position, the edges of the apertures <NUM> engage with and grip a rod <NUM> passing through each aperture <NUM>. In an arrangement such as that depicted in <FIG>, opposite edges of each aperture <NUM> grip respective opposite sides of each rod <NUM>. This may ensure a strong locking action while avoiding the need for a mechanism based on ratchets and/or tooth engagements and therefore provides infinite adjustability within the available range of movement.

As shown in <FIG>, the locking mechanism <NUM> may include springs <NUM>, or other resilient members, that bias the locking plate <NUM> to the angular position in which the edges of the apertures <NUM> grip the rods <NUM>. Such an arrangement may be convenient because the locking mechanism <NUM> may be used to maintain a separation between the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> and the gripping section <NUM> after a user has moved the clamp <NUM> to the unengaged state in preparation for providing an artwork <NUM> to the apparatus, for example when the gripping section <NUM> is at a maximum distance from the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM>.

Alternatively or additionally, as is the case for the arrangement depicted in <FIG>, the lock mechanism <NUM> may be configured such that exerting a force on the gripping section <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> towards the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> tends to disengage the edges of the aperture <NUM> from a rod <NUM> passing through it but a force on the gripping section <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> in a direction away from the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> forces the edges of the aperture <NUM> to grip a rod <NUM> passing through the aperture. Accordingly, the locking plate <NUM> is configured such that the gripping section <NUM> can be pushed down towards the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> in order to engage the gripping section <NUM> with the top surface <NUM> of an artwork <NUM> but, once the gripping section <NUM> is pressing down on artwork <NUM> secured by the clamp <NUM>, the reaction force of the artwork <NUM> against the gripping section <NUM> has the effect of engaging the lock mechanism <NUM> more tightly, ensuring that the artwork <NUM> is securely held. In order to release the lock mechanism <NUM> depicted in <FIG>, a user merely needs to rotate the locking plate <NUM> about the pivots <NUM> in order to disengage the edges of the openings <NUM> from the rods <NUM>. In the arrangement depicted, the release <NUM> is provided by a pad mounted to the locking plate <NUM> which may improve user comfort. However, in other arrangements, the release may be an exposed edge of the locking plate <NUM>.

As depicted in <FIG>, the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> may be secured to the mounting panel <NUM> using a securing device <NUM> such as that discussed above, including its variations. For brevity, detailed explanation of the securing device <NUM> and the manner in which it engages with the mounting panel <NUM> will not be repeated.

As shown in <FIG>, in an arrangement, the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> may include a mounting section <NUM> that is mounted on the mounting panel <NUM>, and an aperture plate <NUM> that is supported by the mounting section <NUM>. The aperture plate <NUM> includes an elongate aperture <NUM> that performs the same function as, for example, the aperture 20C of the fastening device <NUM> discussed above and a recess <NUM> that performs a similar function to the fourth recess <NUM> of the fastening device discussed above, namely engages with the engagement part <NUM> of the securing device <NUM> to prevent the engagement part <NUM> from being rotated once the securing device is engaged with the mounting panel <NUM> to secure the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> to the mounting panel. In particular, straight edges <NUM> of the recess <NUM> are configured to engage with the side face 63B of the engagement part <NUM> to preclude rotation. However, the recess <NUM> is configured such that the securing device <NUM> can fit within the recess <NUM> at a range of positions in a direction parallel to the elongate direction of the aperture <NUM>. As with the fastening device discussed above, therefore, although the securing device <NUM> may only be engaged with the mounting panel <NUM> in discrete locations, for example in a direction perpendicular to the length of parallel slots <NUM> within the mounting panel <NUM>, the position of the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> in that direction may be infinitely adjustable within a range of movement that is sufficient to ensure that the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> can be secured at any position on the mounting panel <NUM>.

In an arrangement, as shown in <FIG>, the aperture plate <NUM> may be configured such that its position relative to the mounting section <NUM> of the base <NUM> of the clamp can be adjusted such that the orientation of the elongate direction of the elongate aperture <NUM> relative to the mounting section <NUM> can be changed. Such an arrangement may permit the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> to be used in different orientations relative to the orientation of slots <NUM> of the mounting panel <NUM> whilst enabling the elongate direction of the elongate aperture <NUM> to be perpendicular to the slots <NUM>. This means that a single design of clamp <NUM> may be provided and used at different orientations relative to the mounting panel <NUM>, simplifying both manufacture and use of the apparatus.

In an arrangement, the mounting section <NUM> and the aperture plate <NUM> have respective engagement members <NUM>, <NUM> that limit the possible orientation of the aperture plate <NUM> relative to the mounting section <NUM>. In an arrangement, the engagement members <NUM>, <NUM> may be configured such that the aperture plate <NUM> can be mounted to the mounting section <NUM> in first and second orientations in which the respective elongate directions of the elongate aperture <NUM> are perpendicular to each other. In an arrangement, the clamp <NUM> may be configured to engage with an edge of the artwork <NUM>. The first and section orientations of the aperture plate <NUM> relative to the mounting section <NUM> may be selected such that in one orientation, as depicted in <FIG>, the elongate direction of the elongate aperture <NUM> is perpendicular to the edge of any artwork <NUM> engaged with the clamp <NUM> and, in the second orientation, the elongate direction of the elongate aperture <NUM> is parallel to the edge of such artwork <NUM>.

It should be appreciated, however, that it is not essential for the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> to have a separate aperture plate <NUM> and mounting section <NUM>. For example, these components may be integrally formed such that the elongate direction of the elongate aperture <NUM> may have a fixed orientation relative to the remainder of the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM>. In such an arrangement, a kit of parts may be provided, including different clamps <NUM> or different bases <NUM> of clamp <NUM> in which the elongate direction of the elongate apertures <NUM> relative to the remainder of the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> differ.

It should also be appreciated that, although the above description refers to an arrangement with an elongate aperture <NUM> within the base <NUM> of the clamp through which the securing device <NUM> engages with the mounting panel <NUM>, this is not essential and alternative shapes of aperture may be used.

In an arrangement, the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> may include an abutment face <NUM> that is configured to engage with an edge of artwork <NUM>. In an arrangement, the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> may include a resilient pad <NUM> that forms the abutment face <NUM>. In use, the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> may be positioned against the edge of the artwork <NUM>. The resilient pad <NUM> may deform if the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> is pushed too hard against the artwork, minimising the likelihood of damage, and/or the resilient pad <NUM> may be configured to deform elastically such that the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> may be pressed against the edge of the artwork <NUM> in order to provide a desired clamping force against the edge of the artwork <NUM>, albeit that this clamping force may be relatively low.

In an arrangement, for example as shown in <FIG>, a resilient pad <NUM> may alternatively or additionally be provided on the surface of the gripping section <NUM> that engages with the upper surface <NUM> of the artwork <NUM>. The resilient pad <NUM> may reduce the likelihood of damage to the artwork <NUM> by engagement with the clamp <NUM> and/or may deform elastically in order to provide a desired clamping force between the gripping section <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> and the artwork <NUM>.

In an arrangement as depicted in <FIG>, the underside of the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> may include one or more mounting pads <NUM>, for example formed from a rubber, that sit between the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> and the upper surface of the mounting panel <NUM>. The mounting pads <NUM> may be configured to reduce sliding between the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> and the mounting panel <NUM> once the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> has been secured to the mounting panel <NUM> by a securing device <NUM>. Alternatively or additionally, the mounting pads <NUM> may be resilient and configured to deform elastically to provide a desired reaction force between the clamp <NUM> and the mounting panel <NUM> when the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> is secured to the mounting panel <NUM> by a securing device <NUM>.

In an arrangement, as shown in <FIG>, one or both of the abutment face <NUM> of the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> and the gripping section <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> may be configured such that a length of an extrusion <NUM>, <NUM> can be attached to them, for example in place of the resilient pads <NUM>, <NUM>. For example, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> and the gripping section <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> may have flanges <NUM>, <NUM> that can either engage with recesses within the resilient pads <NUM>, <NUM> or can engage with recesses <NUM>, <NUM> within an extrusion <NUM>, <NUM>.

Such an extrusion <NUM>, <NUM> may have a constant cross-section along its length and can therefore be cut to any required length. The use of an extrusion <NUM>, <NUM> may spread the forces acting between the artwork <NUM> and the surfaces of the clamp <NUM> facing the artwork <NUM> over a greater area than is provided using the clamp alone. This may reduce the pressure exerted on the artwork. An extrusion <NUM>, <NUM> may be used for any one or more points of contact with the artwork <NUM>. For example during transport or storage, the artwork <NUM> may predominantly be supported on one edge. In that case, an extrusion <NUM> may be used between a clamp <NUM> supporting that edge of the artwork <NUM> and the edge of the artwork <NUM>.

In an arrangement, the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> and/or the gripping section <NUM> may include holes <NUM> that may be configured to receive fixings <NUM>, such as screws or bolts. The fixings <NUM> may be used to secure the extrusions <NUM>, <NUM> to the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> and/or the gripping section <NUM>, respectively, namely prevent them from sliding relative to each other. Optionally, the holes <NUM> could be used for fixings to secure to the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> and/or the gripping section <NUM> a load spreader that, for example is not specifically configured to engage with the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> and/or the gripping section <NUM>. For example, a user could use a fixing through the holes <NUM> to secure a wooden batten.

In an arrangement, artwork <NUM> may be secured to the mounting panel <NUM> by one or more pairs of clamps <NUM> provided on opposite edges of the artwork <NUM>. For example, for rectangular or square artwork, the artwork <NUM> may be secured by two pairs of clamps <NUM> such that a clamp is provided on each of the four edges of the artwork <NUM>. In an arrangement, two pairs of clamps <NUM> may be provided for the long edges of a rectangular artwork <NUM> and a single pair of clamps <NUM> may be provided for the short side. The use of multiple clamps <NUM> along one edge of the artwork <NUM> may be used to spread the forces exerted on the artwork <NUM>. It should be appreciated that, if desired, in addition to providing multiple clamps <NUM> along one edge of an artwork <NUM>, one or more of the clamps <NUM> may be provided with an extrusion <NUM>, <NUM>, as described above to further spread the loading. In an arrangement as depicted in <FIG>, multiple clamps <NUM> may be connected to a common extrusion <NUM>, <NUM>. In an arrangement, an extrusion <NUM>, <NUM> may be provided to a single clamp <NUM>. It will be appreciated that other arrangements are possible.

<FIG> illustrates a use of the apparatus in which a first artwork <NUM>, or package of artwork, is secured to a mounting panel <NUM> using two clamps <NUM>, <NUM> on each of two opposite sides of the first artwork <NUM>. As further depicted, and as discussed above, a second artwork <NUM>, or package of artwork, may be positioned on top of the first artwork <NUM> and also secured to the mounting panel <NUM>. As illustrated the two artworks <NUM>, <NUM> need not be the same size. In such an arrangement, although the first artwork <NUM> is secured by both clamps <NUM>, <NUM> on each of the two sides, the second artwork <NUM>, which is smaller, may be only secured by one of the clamps <NUM> on each side.

As shown, in such an arrangement, the two clamps <NUM> only securing the first artwork <NUM> may be positioned such that edges of their respective gripping sections <NUM> abut the edge <NUM> of the second artwork <NUM>. This may assist in securing the position of the second artwork <NUM>. In an arrangement, the edges of the gripping section <NUM> and/or its resilient pad <NUM> may be designed to be perpendicular to the length of the gripping section <NUM>. This may facilitate its use in assisting securing the second artwork <NUM>.

In an arrangement, a clamp <NUM> may include one or more spacers <NUM>, provided between the the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM> and the gripping section <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the spacers <NUM> may be mounted to the rods <NUM> in the same manner as the gripping section <NUM>. As shown in the example depicted in <FIG>, the spacers <NUM> may not include a lock mechanism. However, in an arrangement, at least one spacer <NUM> may have a lock mechanism similar to that described above with respect to the gripping section <NUM>. The spacers <NUM> may have an abutment face similar to the abutment face <NUM> of the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM>. In a similar manner to the abutment face <NUM> of the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM>, the abutment face of the spacers <NUM> may be configured to connect to a resilient pad or an extrusion to function as a load spreader and may have holes to secure an extrusion or other load spreader.

In an arrangement, as depicted in <FIG>, a strap <NUM> may be provided between a pair of clamps <NUM>. In such an arrangement, the strap may be secured to base <NUM> of the clamps <NUM>. The strap <NUM> may assist in securing the artwork <NUM> to the mounting panel <NUM>.

In an arrangement, as shown in <FIG>, the ends of the strap <NUM> may include a hook <NUM> that is configured to engage a protrusion <NUM> on the base <NUM> of the clamp <NUM>. The protrusion <NUM> may be appropriately oriented such that when the strap <NUM> is correctly located, the tension of the strap <NUM> pulls the hook <NUM> more tightly onto the protrusion <NUM>, preventing it from being accidentally released. When the tension is released from the strap, the hook <NUM> may be easily released from the protrusion <NUM>. In such an arrangement, respective sections of the strap <NUM> may be connected to the respective clamps <NUM> of a pair of clamps <NUM> on opposite sides of the artwork <NUM> and then the two sections of strap <NUM> may be secured to each other.

In an alternative arrangement, the base <NUM> of the clamp may include a bar that the strap <NUM> can pass around. This may secure the strap <NUM> to the clamp <NUM> when the strap <NUM> is pulled tight but permit the strap <NUM> to slide through the clamp <NUM>, enabling adjustment. In such an arrangement, a first section of strap <NUM> may pass across an upper face <NUM> of artwork <NUM>, pass around the bars provided on respective clamps <NUM> of a pair of clamps <NUM> on opposite sides of the artwork <NUM> and then return such that the two ends of the strap <NUM> can be secured to each other.

The strap <NUM> may be used to provide additional support for the artwork <NUM> when used in conjunction with an arrangement similar to that discussed above and depicted in <FIG>. In an arrangement, as shown in <FIG>, the strap <NUM> may pass over the release <NUM> of the lock mechanism <NUM>. In such an arrangement, the strap <NUM> may prevent operation of the release <NUM>, namely such that the strap <NUM> must first be removed before the release <NUM> of the lock mechanism <NUM> can be operated. In an arrangement such as that depicted in <FIG>, the tension within the strap <NUM> in use may further press on the lock mechanism <NUM> to further engage it, for example to increase the force with which the edges of the apertures <NUM> engage the rods <NUM>.

In an arrangement, a strap <NUM> such as that depicted in <FIG> may be used in place of the lock mechanism. In such an arrangement, the strap <NUM> may be used to secure the clamp <NUM> in the engaged state, namely to hold the gripping section <NUM> against the artwork <NUM>.

In an arrangement, sections of the strap <NUM> that are secured to each other, such as surfaces provided at or near the ends of the strap <NUM>, may have sections of hook and eye material in order to secure the two sections of the strap <NUM> to each other. This may enable a firm fastening to be made between the two sections of the strap <NUM> regardless of the separation between the two clamps <NUM>. Other means of securing the two ends of the strap <NUM> may also be used, such as mechanical latches or clamps. However, the use of hook and eye material may be preferable, not only because it provides near infinite adjustability but also because it avoids the requirement for a mechanical latch or clamp that, without appropriate care, may pose a risk of damage to the artwork.

Apparatus for holding artwork such as the arrangements discussed above may be configured to be housed in a container. In such an arrangement, the mounting panel (with the artwork mounted thereon) may be secured or held within the container. The container for housing such the apparatus may be a container such as described in <CIT>.

Claim 1:
Apparatus for use in holding artwork during transportation or storage, comprising:
a substantially flat mounting panel (<NUM>) provided with a plurality of retention members; and
at least one clamp (<NUM>), configured to be moveable between an unengaged state, in which artwork (<NUM>) can be removed from the apparatus, and an engaged state, in which the clamp secures the artwork to the apparatus;
wherein the clamp (<NUM>) comprises a base (<NUM>), configured to be secured to the mounting panel (<NUM>), and a gripping section (<NUM>); and
when artwork (<NUM>) is secured to the apparatus, a first side of the artwork is supported on the mounting panel and the gripping section (<NUM>) of the clamp presses on a second side of the artwork, opposite to the first side of the artwork;
characterised in that the clamp (<NUM>) comprises at least one rod (<NUM>) that extends from the base (<NUM>) of the clamp in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the mounting panel (<NUM>); and
the gripping section (<NUM>) is configured to slide along the at least one rod (<NUM>) to move between the unengaged state and the engaged state.