Patent Document

FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to a display board system. The present invention more particularly relates to a display board system including display boards having a variety of surface treatments and providing a variety of mounting interfaces and associated mounting structures to facilitate the use and storage of the display boards. 
     CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The following U.S. patent applications are cross-referenced and incorporated by reference herein: (a) Ser. No. 09/182,998, titled “INFORMATION DISPLAY SYSTEM” filed on Oct. 30, 1998; (b) Ser. No. 09/183,023, titled “WORK STATION” filed on Oct. 30, 1998; (c) Ser. No. 09/183,021, titled “WORK ENVIRONMENT” filed on Oct. 30, 1998; (d) and filed herewith; (d) Ser. No. 09/182,999, titled “DISPLAY BOARD SYSTEM” and filed on Oct. 30, 1998. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     It is well known to display information on surfaces, typically boards on which the information is contained. For example, information is displayed on billboards, signs, prints, posters, chalk boards, white boards, installed through mounting interfaces to mounting structures such as walls, racks, posts, stands, to name but a few known applications. In a general sense, such known applications very ably provide for the display of information. However, such known applications are typically characterized either by their relative permanence or by their relative impermanence because of the surfaces on which the information is contained. For example, the mounting interfaces and associated mounting structures holding or providing for the surfaces, are generally either too rigid and inflexible, i.e. immobile and difficult to reconfigure or otherwise to use and store information, as in the case of information that is applied on a fixed wall, or too insubstantial, i.e. highly mobile but otherwise tending to put the information on display at risk of loss before it can be stored, as in the case of information that is posted on a vertical surface (e.g. a bulletin board). As a result, such known applications are generally not well suited for use in a dynamic work environment, where information is ideally created, displayed (e.g. shared and communicated) and stored in a highly efficient manner. 
     In an attempt to overcome the shortcomings of such known applications, the use of “display boards,” discrete information-containing structures that are mounted within a work space or work environment, has proliferated. However, such known display boards have typically not been provided with mounting interfaces that facilitate the use and storage of the display boards in a manner that facilitates “information persistence”—with information on the display boards being made readily available when needed while conveniently stowed when not needed, for example, for a group project. Moreover, the surface treatments applied to such known display boards are generally limited; such known display boards have typically not been provided with a combination of useful surface treatments that allow information to be conveyed in a variety of media. Nor have such known display boards been provided with mounting interfaces and associated mounting structures in a system that facilitates the use and interchangeability of the display boards and the use, display and storage of information contained on the display boards. 
     Accordingly, it would be advantageous to have a display board system adapted to use, display and store information efficiently in a dynamic work environment. It would also be advantageous to have a display board system that includes display boards having surface treatments that facilitate the collection, transformation, use, display and storage of information in a wide variety of formats. It would further be advantageous to have a display board system providing display boards of a similar basic construction and format and a relatively low cost, yet readily adapted for use with a plurality of mounting interfaces. It would further be advantageous to have a plurality of mounting structures adapted to support and promote the use, display and storage of the display boards. It would further be advantageous if the mounting structures were configured to allow the efficient use, display and storage of display boards so that information contained on the display boards could efficiently be used, displayed and stored by persons in a work environment to increase productivity, particularly in the performance of groups. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to an apparatus for display of information in a work environment. The apparatus includes a display board with a substantially rigid core and defines a first side having a first surface and a second side opposite of the first side having a second surface. The first surface has a first surface treatment and the second surface has a second surface treatment. The first surface treatment includes a reusable adhesive and a clear film cover over the reusable adhesive. 
     The present invention further relates to an apparatus for display of information in a work environment. The apparatus includes a display board with a substantially rigid core and defining a first side having a first surface and a second side opposite of the first side having a second surface, the first surface having a first surface treatment and the second surface having a second surface treatment. The first surface treatment includes a reusable adhesive and the second surface treatment is a functional surface treatment. 
     The present invention further relates to an apparatus for display of information in a work environment. The apparatus includes a display board with a substantially rigid core and defining a first side having a first surface and a second side opposite of the first side having a second surface, the first surface having a first surface treatment and the second surface having a second surface treatment. The display board has a generally rectangular shape with a first set of corners each having a first multi-functional mounting interface and a second set of corners each having a second mounting interface. 
     The present invention further relates to a mounting structure for at least one display board providing a first mounting interface and a second mounting interface. The mounting structure includes a first pivotal interface adapted to engage the first mounting interface of the display board and a second pivotal interface adapted to engage the second mounting interface of the display board so that the display board is removably pivotally mounted within the mounting structure. 
     The present invention further relates to a mounting structure for associating at least one display board providing a mounting interface with a panel wall having a top and a first side opposing a second side. The mounting structure includes a rail having a first end and a second end and at least one track for engagement with the mounting interface of the display board between the first end and the second end and an end fitting coupled to each of the first end of the rail and the second end of the rail. The mounting structure also includes a hook for placement over the top of the panel wall, a pivot post coupled to the hook and pivotally coupled to the end fitting, and a spring member coupled to the pivot post within the end fitting tending to draw the hook into contact with the first side of the panel wall and the end fitting into contact with the second side of the panel wall. 
     The present invention further relates to a mounting structure for display of at least one display board. The mounting structure includes a frame, a platform for the display board coupled to the frame, and a compliant retaining system for the display board coupled to the frame. The display board can be placed on the platform and pressed into secure engagement with the compliant retaining system. 
     The present invention further relates to an easel for use with at least one display board. The easel includes a base, a first frame section coupled to the base, a second frame section coupled to the base, a stowing area formed between the first frame section and second frame section, a first tray coupled to the first frame section, and a second tray coupled to the second frame section. A first display board can be placed on display on the first tray, a second display board can be placed on display on the second tray, and a plurality of display boards can be stored in the stowing area. 
     The present invention further relates to a mounting structure associated with an existing structure and for use with at least one display board. The mounting structure includes an articulating frame pivotally coupled to the existing structure for movement between a fully deployed position and a fully stowed position. The mounting structure also includes at least one display rack coupled to the articulating frame and providing an interface for pivotal coupling of a plurality of display boards. 
     The present invention further relates to an easel having a base and a support frame adapted to provide for the display of display boards on a tray coupled to the support frame. The base of the easel has a nested portion and a nesting portion so that one easel can be nested within another easel. 
     The present invention further relates to an easel having a base and a support frame adapted to provide for the display of display boards on a tray coupled to the support frame. The easel includes pivotally coupling the base to the support frame and pivotally coupling the tray to the support frame. 
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES 
     FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a display board according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. 
     FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the display board. 
     FIG. 3 is a fragmentary exploded perspective view of the display board. 
     FIG. 4 is a fragmentary exploded perspective view of a display board according to an alternative embodiment. 
     FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a display board according to an alternative embodiment with a clear film overlay. 
     FIG. 5A is a fragmentary perspective view of the display board of FIG. 5 showing a detail of lifting tabs. 
     FIGS. 5B through 5D are fragmentary perspective views of the display board of FIG. 5 showing a detail of lifting tabs according to an alternative embodiment. 
     FIG. 5E is a sectional plan view of the display board of FIG. 5 taken at line  5 E— 5 E in FIG.  5 C. 
     FIG. 6 is a partially exploded perspective view of the construction of the display board of FIG.  5 . 
     FIG. 6A is a fragmentary perspective view of a display board according to an alternative embodiment. 
     FIG. 7 is a fragmentary partially exploded perspective view of the display board of FIG. 1 showing a mounting arrangement. 
     FIG. 8 is a fragmentary perspective view of the display board of FIG. 1 showing a mounting arrangement. 
     FIGS. 9 and 10 are fragmentary perspective views of a display board according to an alternative embodiment showing a mounting arrangement. 
     FIG. 11 is a fragmentary partially exploded perspective view of a display board according to an alternative embodiment showing a mounting arrangement. 
     FIG. 12 is a sectional elevation view of the display board of FIGS. 9 through 11 taken at line  12 — 12  in FIG.  9 . 
     FIG. 12A is a fragmentary sectional plan view of the display board taken at line  12 A— 12 A in FIG.  12 . 
     FIG. 13 is a fragmentary perspective view of a display board according to an alternative embodiment providing a universal comer member. 
     FIG. 14 is a fragmentary perspective view of a display board system including a storage cup clip arrangement. 
     FIG. 15 is a fragmentary partially exploded perspective view of a display board system including a coupling arrangement. 
     FIG. 16 is a fragmentary partially exploded perspective view of a display board system including a label arrangement. 
     FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective view of a mounting structure for a display board system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 
     FIG. 18 is a fragmentary exploded perspective view of the mounting structure of FIG. 17 showing the installation of a display board. 
     FIGS. 19A and 19B are fragmentary exploded perspective views of the mounting structure of FIG. 17 showing the installation of a display board. 
     FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the mounting structure of FIG. 17 wherein a plurality of display boards have been installed. 
     FIG. 21 is a fragmentary exploded perspective view of the mounting structure of FIG. 17 including a mounting arrangement according to an exemplary embodiment. 
     FIGS. 21A and 21B are fragmentary sectional plan views of the mounting arrangement of FIG. 21 taken along line  21 A— 21 A in FIG.  21 . 
     FIG. 22 is a fragmentary exploded perspective view of the mounting structure of FIG. 17 including a mounting arrangement according to an exemplary embodiment. 
     FIG. 23 is a fragmentary exploded perspective view of the mounting structure of FIG. 17 including a carrier. 
     FIG. 23A is a fragmentary sectional elevation view of the mounting structure of FIG. 23 taken along line  23 A— 23 A in FIG.  23 . 
     FIG. 23B is an exploded perspective view of a mounting structure for a display board system according to an alternative embodiment adapted to provide an interface for the display board of FIG.  13 . 
     FIG. 23C is a fragmentary elevation view of the mounting structure of FIG.  23 B. 
     FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a mounting structure for a display board system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 
     FIGS. 25A through 25C are fragmentary perspective views of the mounting structure of FIG.  24 . 
     FIG. 25D is a fragmentary sectional elevation view of the mounting structure of FIG. 24 taken at line  25 D— 25 D in FIG.  26 A. 
     FIG. 26 is a fragmentary sectional elevation view of a mounting structure for a display board system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 
     FIG. 26A is a fragmentary exploded perspective view of the mounting structure of FIG.  26 . 
     FIG. 27 is a fragmentary sectional elevation view of a mounting structure for a display board system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 
     FIG. 27A is a fragmentary exploded perspective view of the mounting structure of FIG.  27 . 
     FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a mounting structure for a display board system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 
     FIG. 29 is a fragmentary exploded perspective view of the mounting structure of FIG.  28 . 
     FIG. 30 is a side elevation view of a mounting structure for a display board system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 
     FIG. 31 is a perspective view of the mounting structure of FIG.  30 . 
     FIG. 32 is a perspective view of a mounting structure of a display board system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 
     FIGS. 33A through 33C are perspective views of a mounting structure for a display board system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 
     FIGS. 33D through 33F are side elevation views of the mounting structure of FIGS. 33A through 33C. 
     FIG. 33G is a sectional elevation view of a board pad of the mounting structure taken at line  33 G— 33 G in FIG.  33 A. 
     FIG. 34A is a perspective view of a mounting structure for a display board system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 
     FIG. 34B is a fragmentary sectional perspective view of the mounting structure of FIG. 34A taken along line  34 B— 34 B in FIG.  34 A. 
     FIGS. 34C through 34E are perspective elevation views of the mounting structure of FIG.  34 A. 
     FIG. 35 is a perspective view of a mounting structure for a display board system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 
     FIG. 36 is an exploded perspective view of the mounting structure of FIG.  35 . 
     FIGS. 37A and 37B are fragmentary sectional elevation views of the mounting structure of FIG.  35 . 
     FIG. 38 is a perspective view of a mounting structure for a display board system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 
     FIG. 39 is a fragmentary perspective view of the mounting structure of FIG. 38 showing a mounting arrangement for a display board. 
     FIG. 40 is a fragmentary perspective view of a mounting structure for a display board system showing a mounting arrangement for a display board according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. 
     FIG. 41 is an exploded perspective view of a mounting structure for a display board system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 
     FIGS. 42 and 43 are top plan views of a mounting structure for a display board system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 
     FIG. 44 is a fragmentary exploded perspective view of the mounting structure of FIGS. 42 and 43. 
     FIG. 45 is a perspective view of the mounting structure of FIGS. 42 and 43. 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a display board  100  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Display board  100  includes side frame members shown as extruded edge trim members  102  and top and bottom frame members also shown as extruded edge trim members  104 . Display board  100  includes four corner members  106  (top) and  108  (bottom) secured to side frame members  102  and top and bottom frame members  104 . Display board  100  includes a rigid core  110  providing outer surfaces, namely a front surface  112  and a back surface (not visible). 
     According to any preferred embodiment, the display board is configured in a generally symmetrical basic form so that the designation of a “front surface” and “back surface” is essentially arbitrary and dependent upon the orientation of the display board with respect to a person intending to use the display board. As shown in the FIGURES, and as will be apparent to those who review this disclosure, the outer surfaces of the display boards may be provided with a wide variety of functional surface treatments (e.g. tackable adhesive, clear film overlay or “photo album”, clear film “pocket”, writable clear film, cork or tack board, peg board, magnetic board, marker board, dry erase or “white” board, paper or paper tablet, projection screen, etc.) or decorative surface treatments (e.g. graphics display, cloth, etc.) in a wide variety of combinations (i.e. with one surface differing in whole or in part from the other surface) that may be suited or adapted to a wide variety of functional and decorative purposes according to preferred and other alternative or exemplary embodiments of the present invention. According to any preferred embodiment, the display boards are configured for ease and flexibility of use (e.g. recording, mapping, transformation, capture, etc.), display (e.g. sharing and communicating), and storage (e.g. persistence) of information, as well as of mounting and removal from associated mounting structures. 
     As evident from FIGS. 3,  4  and  7 , the rigid core of the display board may be formed of any of a variety or materials or have any of a variety of constructions. According to a preferred embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 1 through 3, rigid core  110  of display board  100  is formed of an internal honeycomb core structure  114  having an external facing sheet  116 . According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the honeycomb core structure with integrated facing sheet is of a type commercially available from Tenneco Packaging, Inc. of Lake Forest, Ill. Surface  112  of display board  100  is attached to facing sheet  116  (for example, by a hot melt adhesive, or by other methods). According to an alternative embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, rigid core  110  may be formed from an open honeycomb core structure  114  (i.e. similar to that shown in FIG. 3 but without a external facing sheet) to which surface  112  is attached. According to another alternative embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, rigid core  110  may be formed from a solid or composite material or any other types of materials. According to any preferred embodiment, the rigid core (and associated frame members) will be of a construction that provides for a display board that is lightweight yet of sufficient structural integrity to suit its intended purposes (i.e. as may be defined by the particular surface treatment and associated mounting structures) and generally resistant to warping and bending. According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the edge trim members are made of a plastic material. 
     As is shown, side frame members  102  and top and bottom frame members  104  fit over and are secured to the edge of rigid core  110  (e.g. a press fit working with application of an adhesive). Corner members  106  and  108  each fit over and are joined to one of side frame members  102  and one of top or bottom frame members  104  to form a secure frame structure for display board  100 . (According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the corner members and frame members are made of a plastic material and are joined by ultrasonic welding; according to alternative embodiments, the members can be joined or attached by adhesives or fastening arrangements.) As shown in FIG. 7, each of frame members  102  and  104  provides a curved exterior but includes a generally orthogonal interior receptacle  128   a  shaped to receive and retain rigid core  110 . The receptacle is formed between perimeter edges  126  of each frame member  102  and  104  and a pair of inwardly disposed transverse opposed ribs  128  (generally perpendicular to perimeter edges  126  and extending along the length of each frame member). Each corner member  106  (not shown) or  108  has a generally triangular profile (although other profiles may be used according to alternative embodiments) with a curved exterior and includes an opening configured to receive a corresponding corner portion of rigid core  110  and curved exterior of each of two adjacent frame members  102  and  104 . Opening includes a pair of inwardly disposed opposed fins  130  that extend along a central portion of opening between a pair of opposed receptacles (each shaped to receive the curved exterior of frame members  102  or  104 ). During assembly, the corner member is press fit onto the corresponding corner portion of the rigid core and over the two adjacent frame members. Corner member  108  spreads open at opposed fins  130  (slightly) while crossing frame members  102  and  104 , then springs back to locate corner member  108  onto corner portion of rigid core  110 . According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the corner members are able to withstand a “drop” without damage to the display board. 
     According to an exemplary embodiment of display board  100  shown in FIG. 8, top corner member  106  includes an mounting element shown as an integral post-hook clip  140 ; bottom corner member  108  includes an aperture  152 . Post-hook clip  140  includes a curved top cap  142  coupled to the top of corner member  106  by a web  146 . Curved top cap  142  provides two opposed hooks  144 . Post-hook clip  140  also includes a post  148  formed in web  146  (adjacent to a clearance slot  150 ). Bottom corner member  108  includes aperture  152  configured to fit on a pivot pin (not shown). As a result, a “multi-functional” mounting interface is provided and display board  100  is suited for both for hanging (e.g. by the hook of the top corner member with the bottom corner member free of any engagement) and for pivotal mounting (e.g. through the post of the top corner member and the aperture of the bottom corner member); in addition, display board  100  is also suited for other forms of engagement or display. 
     Referring to FIGS. 9 through 12A, according to an alternative embodiment, top corner member  106  includes a mounting element shown as a repositionable post-hook clip  160 . As shown, repositionable post-hook clip  160  is of the same basic arrangement of integral post-hook clip  140 , with curved top cap  162  providing hooks  164  and web  168  supporting top cap  162  and including post  168  and clearance slot  170 . Repositionable post-hook clip  160  also includes a curved base cap  172  shaped to fit over the top or side of comer member  106 . Base cap  172  of post-hook clip  160  includes a pair of inwardly disposed opposed fins  174 , each fin having a tab  176  at its leading edge so that when it is installed into corresponding horizontal groove  178   a  or vertical groove  178   b,  post-hook clip  160  is secured by a slot  180  at the terminal end of either of grooves  178   a  or  178   b  which engage tab  176  in a compliant (e.g. “snap”) fit (see FIG.  12 A). As a result, depending upon how the repositionable post-hook clip is installed (and the direction of mounting or engagement), the display board may be engaged either in a “landscape” mode or a “portrait” mode. 
     Referring to FIG. 13, comer member  106  of display board  100  includes a “universal” integral mounting element  182  configured with a pair of caps  184  providing a set of hooks  186  both on the top and the side of comer member  106 . Caps  184  also include a pair of opposed projections  188   a  and  188   b  both on the top and the side of comer member  106 . Hooks  186  and projections  188   a  and  188   b  are configured for engagement with a mounting structure (not shown in FIG.  13 ). According to any preferred embodiment, the universal integral mounting element allows both for hanging attachment (e.g. by the hooks, as shown in exemplary FIGS. 26 and 27) or pivotal engagement (e.g. by projections  188   a  and  188   b,  see, e.g., FIGS.  23 B and  23 C). The universal integral mounting element (e.g. providing a multi-functional mounting surface) also allows for attachment of the display board in either landscape mode or portrait mode. 
     As indicated, the surfaces of the display board may be provided with any of a wide variety of surface treatments, both functional and decorative, in a wide variety of combinations (i.e. one surface of a display board may have in whole or in part a different surface treatment than the other surface) and portions. According to any preferred embodiment, the surface treatment of the display boards will allow the display of one or more “layers” of information on each surface. In FIG. 1, display board  100  includes a writable surface  112  (e.g. a Melamine paper dry-erase or other “white board” surface); the other surface of the display board may have a reusable adhesive (e.g. “tacky” or repositionable posting surface treatment). As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, display board  100  includes with a clear film cover  120  (e.g. overlay) over a tackable surface  112   b  (e.g. “photo album”). As shown, clear film cover  120  includes an upper sheet  122   a  and a lower sheet  122   b;  surface  112  (not shown in FIG. 5) beneath clear film cover  120  is provided with a light adhesive (e.g. “tackable”, “tacky” or “sticky”) surface treatment so that both upper sheet  122   a  and lower sheet  122   b  of clear film cover  120  and sheets of paper or other materials (e.g. “paper capture” for display beneath the clear film cover) will removably adhere to surface  112  (upper sheet and lower sheet may lift off in any direction or one, or three or more sheets may be provided according to alternative embodiments). According to a particularly preferred embodiment, each sheet of the clear film cover is made of a material that is “writable” (either permanently or erasably, i.e. reusably for a number of cycles). As shown in FIGS. 5,  5 A and  5 B, each sheet of clear film cover  120  may include a lifting tab  124   a  (FIG. 5A) that is of the same material as the sheet or a lifting tab  124   b  (FIG. 5B) that is of a different material or treatment than the sheet (e.g. a colored plastic flap that is more readily visible and non-adhesive). FIGS. 5C through 5E show a post  123  inserted into display board  100  that coacts with holes  123   x  to secure lifting tabs  1246  (for upper sheet  122   a  and lower sheet  122   b ) to surface  112  of display board  100 . Post  123  may be inserted on one side of the display board or (as shown in FIG. 5E may be provided in a two-headed post  125  that extends through core  110  of display board  100 . 
     According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the clear film cover is a dry-erase polyester film sheet of a 0.007 inch thickness with acrylic hardcoat and 90 percent gloss level commercially available from Tekra Corporation of New Berlin, Wis. under the name MARNOT (™). The tacky surfaces for the display boards according to particularly preferred embodiments are of a type similar to the POST-IT (™) memoboard/bulletin board adhesive surface products commercially available from 3M Corporation of St. Paul, Minn.; “tackiness” is reduced from the typical range of 75-25 grams to a range of approximately 20-50 grams when used with display boards providing the clear film cover. Preferably, tacky (or “tackable”) surface treatments will provide at least 250 cycles of “stick on” and “peel off” use (whether with the clear film cover or directly with sheets of paper or other material). According to an alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 6A, surface  112  of display board  100  is provided with a series of “tacky” (e.g. reusable adhesive) sections  112   x  sized and selectively arranged to reduce lift off force while maintaining higher tackiness; “tacky” sections could be in various shapes or patterns, such as stripes. 
     According to preferred embodiments, the display boards are provided in a variety of sizes, though typically in a rectangular shape suitable for use and display of information in either portrait mode or landscape mode. Typical sizes would include 34 by 46 inches or a half-size 22 by 34 inches, though many other sizes are available according to alternative embodiments. According to any particularly preferred embodiment, the display boards are sized to correspond to the standard delivery format of the materials from which they are assembled (e.g. roll widths or sheet sizes of film material or adhesive surfaces, etc.). (The core of the display board may also be provided in a variety of widths.) 
     FIGS. 14 through 16 show exemplary embodiments of accessories for use with one or more display boards. FIG. 14 shows a storage cup clip  190  including a cup-shaped receptacle  192  configured to contain markers  194  (shown in phantom lines) or the like. A clip portion  196  of storage cup clip  190  includes a pair of curved projections  198  shaped and sized to fit securely onto frame member  102  of display board  100 . According to any preferred embodiment, the clip portion will be fit securely onto frame member (e.g. as to prevent undesired slipping or sliding along frame member when receptacle is loaded) but the curved projections will deform readily to allow both attachment and removal of the storage cup clip when desired. FIG. 15 shows a utility clip  200 . Utility clip  200  provides two clip portions  202  each having a pair of curved projections  204  connected by a central web  206 . Clip portions  202  are shaped and sized to fit onto frame member  102  of a display board  100   b.  As shown, utility clip  200  can be used to attach adjacent display boards  100   a  and  100   b  by their adjacent frame members (e.g. providing a display board “interlock”); alternatively, the utility clip can be used to attach a marker to a display board. According to any preferred embodiment, the clip portions of the utility clip are configured to securely attach to the frame member of the display board (or display boards) yet will readily allow for detachment. FIG. 16 shows a label clip  210  formed from a pair of curved projections  212  coupled by a flat web  214 . A label  216  (e.g. a paper slip or the like) can be slid into a slot  218  formed by grooves  219  in web  214  and is held in place against frame member  102  by spring tension. As shown, label clip  210  fits securely (and removably) onto frame member  102  of display board  100  by spring tension and is made of a clear plastic material (e.g. styrene) so that label  216  is readily visible through flat web  214 . According to any preferred embodiment, the clips are made of a compliant, spring-like material such as plastic, and will be provided with a mating profile, whether provided by projections or other engaging elements, that are suitably matched to the shape or construction of the corresponding frame or edge of the display boards to allow selectively for secure attachment and removal. 
     Referring to FIGS. 17 through 45, a variety of mounting structures for display boards are shown according to preferred and alternative embodiments of the present invention. The mounting structures are adapted to mount or stand the display boards on other structures, for example, floors, architectural walls, panel walls, systems furniture, other articles of furniture, etc. According to the preferred embodiments, the mounting structures are configured for display and use with (and storage of) the display boards shown and described in FIGS. 1 through 16. The variety of mounting structures that may be used with the display boards illustrates the flexibility and adaptability of display boards and their mounting interfaces. However, it is important to note that according to alternative embodiments that will be apparent to those who review this disclosure, the mounting structures can readily be adapted for use or interfacing (e.g. hanging, pivot mount, press fit, leaning, etc. in a variety of modes, such as landscape mode or portrait mode) with a wide variety of display boards having a wide variety of alternative sizes, shapes and constructions. It is also important to note generally that according to any preferred embodiment, the display board system is intended to promote and advance the efficient use, display and storage of information and layers of information on display boards (regardless of the format by which the information is placed on the display boards) through their mounting interfaces and associated mounting structures. 
     Referring specifically to FIG. 17, a mounting structure is shown as a rack  220 . Rack  220  provides a pivotal mounting interface for display boards  100  (e.g. in the manner of a flip book with ready visibility of both surfaces of display boards  100 ). Rack  220  includes a center frame  222  and a cover  224 ; rack  220  also includes a cap  226  and a base  228  securing frame  222  and cover  224  into an integrated structure. Frame  222  includes two side walls  230  and a center wall  232 . Side walls  230  of frame  222  each include a top mounting tab  234  and a bottom mounting tab  236 , which project horizontally from an upper ledge  238  or lower ledge  240  at the top and bottom of frame  222 , respectively. Each of side walls  230  of frame  222  also include a vertical trim rail  242 . According a particularly preferred embodiment, the center frame is integrally formed (e.g. folded) from sheet metal. Cover  224  includes a series of vertical corrugations  244  and has a vertical trim hook  246  within each lateral end forming a groove  248 . Each vertical trim hook  246  of cover  224  is configured to engage corresponding vertical trim rail  242  of frame  222  (e.g. within groove  248 ), holding cover  224  onto frame  222 . According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the cover is formed from an extruded plastic material. Base  228  includes a flat bottom  250  and a core  252  (above bottom) having rear and side walls  256  providing a profile configured to contain lower ledge  240  of center frame  222  and a front wall  258  providing a corrugated profile corresponding generally to corrugations  244  of cover  224  (slightly offset and larger). A horizontal ledge  260  including four vertical pegs  262  (e.g. rounded posts) extends from front wall  258  of base  228 . Each bottom mounting tab  236  of frame  222  fits within core  252  of base; threaded mounting holes  235  in each bottom mounting tab  236  of frame  222  correspond to mounting holes  264  in core  252  to allow base  228  to be secured to frame  222  with threaded fasteners  266 . Cap  226  includes a flat top  268  and a core  270  (beneath top  268 ) having rear and side walls  272  providing a profile configured to contain upper ledge  238  of center frame  222  and a front wall  274  providing a corrugated profile corresponding generally to corrugations  244  of cover  224  (slightly offset and larger). A horizontal plate  276  extends from front wall  274  of cap  226 ; horizontal plate  276  includes four curved hooks  278  forming four retaining slots  280  (having a narrowing retaining profile as shown). Each top mounting tab  234  of frame  222  fits within core  270  of cap  226 ; threaded mounting holes  235  in each top mounting tab  234  of frame  222  correspond to mounting holes  266   a  in core  270  to allow cap  226  to be secured to frame  222  with a threaded fastener  266  (or a thread forming fastener). According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the base and cap are formed from a plastic material. 
     According to any particularly preferred embodiment, the rack is adapted for mounting to a structure provided by a wall or other article (e.g. by any of a variety of conventional or other mounting arrangements). As shown in FIG. 17, each side wall  230  of center frame  222  of rack  220  contains a mounting arrangement shown as a pattern of mounting holes  282  (e.g. upper and lower set of adjustment slots) through which fasteners (shown as screws  284 ) are used to secure rack  220  in corresponding mounting holes  286  in a vertical structure shown as an architectural wall  288 . As shown in FIG. 17, rack  220  is mounted into a corner  290  of architectural wall  288  and thus is mounted at each side wall  230  of frame  222 . According to alternative embodiments, the rack can be mounted by one of its side walls against a single wall or structure providing a vertical frame, or by a wide variety of other mounting arrangements that will become apparent to those who review this disclosure; the pattern of mounting holes can be arranged to fit a wide variety of mounting structures, such as walls or frames. 
     Referring to FIGS. 18 through 20, the interface between the display board system and rack  220  is shown. As is evident from FIG. 20, rack  220  provides a pivotal mounting interface for one or a plurality of display boards (four are shown as according to a particularly preferred embodiment, though according to alternative arrangements the mounting structure can provide for any number of display boards). In FIG. 18, peg  262  of base  228  of rack  220  is shown being engaged through an aperture  152  in bottom corner member  108  of display board  100 . Corrugations  244  in cover  224  of rack  220  provide a guide (visual and physical) to assist the installation of display boards (e.g. to “find” peg). In FIGS. 19A and 19B, hook  278  and corresponding retaining slot  280  of cap  226  of rack  220  is shown being engaged by post  148  of top corner member  106  of display board  100 . In FIG. 19A, post  148  is disengaged and at the relatively wide opening of retaining slot  280 ; in FIG. 19B, post  148  is engaged (e.g. “gripped”) having been guided around hook  278 , namely slid into and around the narrowing retaining profile of retaining slot  280 , and into a secure, trapped (placement) fit at a terminus  280   a  of retaining slot  280  (e.g. terminus  280   a  has an inner diameter or profile slightly larger than an outer diameter of cylindrical post  148 ). The weight of the display board serves to retain the post in the terminus of the retaining slot in use (e.g. pivotal movement of the display board). According to alternative embodiments, the rack can be of a variety of sizes allowing for installation of a greater or lesser number of display boards (e.g. with more or less than four pegs and corresponding retaining slots). 
     FIGS. 21 and 22 show exemplary mounting arrangements for securing rack  220  to a panel wall system. As shown in FIG. 21, panel wall  292  includes a horizontal slotted rail  294  including a repeating arrangement of slots  296  spaced apart by webs  298 . A mounting bracket  300  is configured to mount rack  220  to panel wall  292 . Mounting bracket  300  includes a base  302  (having a “L”-shaped profile with a top  304  and a side wall  306 ) and a spring clip  308  (also having a “L”-shaped profile with a top  310  and a side wall  312 ) that is joined to base  302  by welding or the like (e.g. two spot welds  314  are shown) so that the corresponding side walls are ordinarily maintained in facing contact under a holding or biasing force. A threaded rod  316  is joined to side wall  306  of base  302  and projects through an oversized aperture  318  in side wall  312  of spring clip  308 . Top  304  of base  302  includes two hooks  320  each forming a retaining slot  322  separated by a gap  324 ; top  310  of spring clip  308  includes a tab  326  flanked by two flaps  328 . Each hook  320  of base  302  of mounting bracket  300  is sized for insertion within slot  296  of horizontal slotted rail  294  of panel wall  292 . As shown, a space  330  is formed between tab  326  and flap  328  of spring clip  308  within retaining slot  322  of hook  320  of base  302 . Referring to FIG. 21A, mounting bracket  300  is shown inserted into horizontal slotted rail  294  prior to engagement; hooks  320  have been inserted into slots  296  (not shown) of horizontal slotted rail  294  and tab  326  of spring clip  308  rests against web  298  of horizontal slotted rail  294  so that the corresponding side walls  306  and  312  of base  302  and spring clip  308  have temporarily been urged apart. Referring to FIG. 21B, mounting bracket  300  has been securely engaged within horizontal slotted rail  294 ; the corresponding side walls of base  302  and spring clip  308  are in facing contact, and web  298  is retained within space  330  provided by mounting bracket  300 . (Tab  326  thus secures mounting bracket  300  until spring clip  308  is separated (e.g. pried apart from base for deinstallation.) With mounting bracket  300  engaged within horizontal slotted rail  294  at the designated mounting points (e.g. upper and lower), rack  220  is cantilevered from panel wall  292 . As shown, mounting between mounting bracket  300  and rack  220  is effected through a corresponding aperture (shown as a mounting slot  282  in FIG. 21) with a fastener (shown as a nut  332  in FIG. 21 to be threaded onto threaded rod  316 ). 
     Referring to FIG. 22, a mounting arrangement for securing rack  220  to a panel wall  334  having a vertical slotted rail  336  (providing a series of slots  338  spaced apart by webs  340 ) is shown. A mounting bracket  342  (of an “L”-shaped profile) has a base  344  and set of rearwardly projecting hooks  346  sized to fit into slots  338  and to engage webs  340  of vertical slotted rail  336 ; a pair of threaded rods  348  project forward from base  344  of mounting bracket  342 . With mounting bracket  342  engaged within vertical slotted rail  336  at the designated mounting points (e.g. upper and lower), rack  220  is cantilevered from panel wall  334 . As shown, mounting between mounting bracket  342  and rack  220  is effected through a corresponding aperture pattern (shown as mounting slots  282 ) with a set of fasteners (shown as a pair of nuts  332  to be threaded onto each threaded rod  348 ). According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the mounting bracket may include a spring clip or other locking member. 
     Referring to FIGS. 23 and 23A, a storage tray  350  for a rack  220  is shown (along with a mounting interface). Storage tray  350  includes a horizontal floor  352  having a ledge or rim  354  and vertical walls (e.g. a back wall  356  and two side walls  358 ). Each of the vertical walls of storage tray  350  includes a vertical peg  360  that can be securely press fit into a corresponding aperture  362  in the bottom of base  228  of rack  220 . When storage tray  350  is installed onto base  228  of rack  220  tools (shown in phantom lines as a marker  194  and an eraser  195 ) can be stored or removed through a front opening  366  between rim  354  and the bottom  364  of base  228 . According to an alternative embodiment shown in FIGS. 23B and 23C, a modified rack  220   a  with cap  226   a  and base  228   a  providing apertures  189  from a web  191  accommodates the display board mounting interface shown in FIG.  13 . 
     Referring to FIGS. 24 through 27, a mounting structure is shown as a rail system according to exemplary embodiments. Referring to FIG. 24, rail system  370  is adapted to provide a generally horizontal rail  372  (for hanging display boards  100  from a panel wall  374  or similar structure) having at each end a pivotal mounting interface shown as a self-adjusting hook assembly  376 . Hook assembly  376  includes a hook  378  (formed from a horizontal cap  380  with a downwardly projecting peg  382 ) pivotally coupled to a end fitting  384  through a pivot post  386  (e.g. peg). 
     As shown in FIG. 25C, rail  372  is pivotally coupled to hook assembly  376 . FIG. 25D shows the detail of the pivotal coupling of hook assembly  376  according to an exemplary embodiment. Pivot post  386  includes a double shoulder bolt  388  having an outer stage  390  and an inner stage  392  and fitted within an aperture  394  (e.g. collar) in end fitting. A torsion spring  398  is installed around and secured to outer stage of double shoulder bolt  388  at one end and secured within end fitting  396  at the other end. Inner stage  392  of double shoulder bolt  388  has a threaded end  402  and is secured within end fitting  400  by a locking nut  404  (with washer  406 ). An end cap  408  is fitted onto the base of end fitting  400  after inner stage  392  of double shoulder bolt  388  has been secured within end fitting  400  so as to allow pivotal movement of hook (not shown) with respect to end fitting  400  (through pivot post  386 ); torsion spring  398  is biased to tend to pivot the hook toward rail (e.g. pulling the peg into contact with the rail). According to the exemplary embodiments, hook assembly  376  is adapted to adjust to the width of the panel wall (or other structure) from which it is suspended (within a range defined by the reach or length of the hook). For example, hook assembly  376  is shown engaged with a relatively wide panel wall  374   a  in FIG.  25 A and with a relatively thin panel wall  374   b  in FIG.  25 B. 
     Referring to FIGS. 27 and 27A (and corresponding to FIGS.  25 A through  25 C), a single track rail  410  is shown with a corresponding hook assembly  376 . Single track rail  410  has a generally “L”-shaped profile with a vertical base portion  412  and a horizontal rail portion  414  (projecting to one side along base portion  412 ). Rail portion  414  has a single track  416  with a retaining rim  418  at its leading edge. Hook assembly  376  includes an end fitting  384  secured to each end of single track rail  410  by fasteners shown as screws  420  extending through apertures  422   a  in end fitting  384  and threaded into corresponding apertures  422  in base portion  412  of single track rail  410 . To suspend display board  100  from rail  410 , hook  144  of corner member  106  of display board  100  is engaged within corresponding track  416  of rail  410  (see, e.g., FIG.  27 ). Referring to FIGS. 26 and 26A (and corresponding to FIG.  25 D), a dual track rail  424  is shown with a corresponding hook assembly  426 . Dual track rail  424  has an inverted “T”-shaped profile with a vertical base portion  428  and two horizontal rail portions  430  each providing a track  432  with a retaining rim  434  at its leading edge. Hook assembly  376  includes an end fitting  400  secured to each end of dual track rail  424  by fasteners shown as screws  420  extending through apertures  422   a  in end fitting  400  and threaded into corresponding apertures  422  in base portion  428  of dual track rail  424 . To suspend one display board  100  from rail  424 , hook  144  of corner member  106  of display board  100  (one or more) is engaged within corresponding track  432  of dual track rail  424  (see, e.g., FIG.  26 ). 
     Referring to FIGS. 28 through 31, a mounting structure is shown as a tray arrangement according to exemplary embodiments. As shown, tray  440  is configured for attachment to a mounting bracket  442  (which is mounted to a structure such as a wall  446  by a mounting screw  448 ) or to a mounting frame  444  (which is placed on a horizontal surface such as a shelf  450 ). Mounting bracket  442  is formed with a central mounting plate  452  having upper and lower tracks  454 . Mounting frame  444  is a wire frame structure formed with upper and lower horizontal frame members  456  that span across right and left legs  458 ; legs  458  are of an “L”-shape each having a vertical frame member  460  and a horizontal support  462  (shown with cylindrical feet  464  installed). Tray  440  includes upper and lower arms  466 , each having a groove  468  for engagement either with upper and lower tracks  454  of mounting bracket  442  or with upper and lower horizontal frame members  456  of mounting frame  444 . Upper and lower arms  466  of tray  440  support a horizontal platform  470  having an inner vertical rim  472  and an outer vertical rim  474 . When tray  440  is installed onto mounting bracket  442  or mounting frame  444 , its upper and lower arms  466  with platform  470  form a sturdy support structure for a display board  100  (which will lean against a vertical structure such as wall  446  or another article and will stand on inner vertical rim  472 ); platform  470  forms a support structure for tools (not shown) such as markers or the like between inner vertical rim  472  and outer vertical rim  474 . (According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the support structure is made of an extruded plastic material.) Referring to FIGS. 30 and 31, tray  440  is mounted to wall  446  with mounting brackets  442  (preferably at least two). Support of display boards  100  (two are shown) is augmented by a pair of horizontally projecting grips  476  mounted to wall  446 . Grips  476  include a compliant grip portion compliant retaining members shown as  478  and a mounting flange  480  (secured to wall  446  by a fastener shown as screw  482  threaded into wall  446 ). Grips  476  are mounted to wall  446  at a spacing that is essentially identical to the width of display board  100 ; when display board  100  is press fit between grips  476  a holding force is provided against frame members  102  of display board  100  by each contacted compliant grip portion  478  of grips  476  (which deform slightly). According to a particularly preferred embodiment, compliant grip portion  478  includes a series of deformable fins  484  and is made of an elastomeric material so that display board is securely held but conveniently removed. The holding force provided by the grips may be adjusted by variations in the shape and profile of the grip portions (e.g. the thickness and spacing of the deformable fins, if fins are employed), as well as the material of construction, the spacing distance of mounting to the wall, etc. according to alternative embodiments. 
     Referring to FIG. 32, a mounting structure is shown as a mat according to an exemplary embodiment. Mat  490  provides a top surface  492  having a series of vertically projecting guides  494  (shown as having varying heights) and a bottom surface  496  given a non-skid surface treatment (according to any conventional method). When mat  490  is installed on a horizontal surface such as a work surface or shelf  450  (as shown), it provides, at one or more of its projecting guides  494 , a stand or support for the base of a display board  100  (shown in phantom lines) leaning against a vertical structure (shown in phantom lines as a wall). Other of the projecting guides may serve as holders for tools such as markers or the like. According to any particularly preferred embodiment, the mat is made of a rubber or plastic material. 
     Referring to FIGS. 33A through 40, a mounting structure is shown as an easel (e.g., stand or cart) according to exemplary embodiments. According to any preferred embodiments, each of the easels is formed from a welded steel tube structure, although other materials may be used according to alternative embodiments. A nesting easel  500  is shown in FIGS. 33A through 33G. Nesting easel  500  is a rigid structure having a pair of substantially upright rearwardly tilted side frame members  502  coupled to a curved back or handle member  504  and to a horizontal cross member  506  covered by a board pad  508 . Side frame members  502  are coupled to a base  510 . Base  510  has a pair of legs  512  coupled by a center portion  514  (providing base  510  with a tapering “V”/“U”-shaped profile) and a pair of substantially upright forwardly tilted support frame members  516 . At the junction of each leg  512  and center portion  514  of base  510  a support pad  518  (e.g. of a compliant or elastomeric material) is provided; tapered center portion  514  of base  510  is raised to provide a capturing lip  520 . A folding tray assembly  522  including a (plastic) tray  524  (of an “L”-shaped profile) is pivotally coupled across side frame members  502  (e.g. by a bolt or other conventional pivotal mounting arrangement); tray assembly can be pivoted from a deployed position (shown in FIG. 33A) to a stowed position (shown in FIG.  33 C). A display board  100  rests on tray  524  (with a retaining groove  523 ) and against board pad  508  for display (as shown in FIGS.  33 B and  33 D); an exposed portion of tray  524  is available for holding tools such as markers  194  and erasers  195 . Display boards  100  not in use can be stored in base  510  of easel  500  (as shown in FIGS. 33B and 33D) resting on support pads  518  and against board pad  508 ; capturing lip  520  of base  510  will serve to keep leaning display boards  100  within base  510 . As is shown in FIGS. 33C and 33F, after tray assembly  522  has been stowed, open front portion  526  of base  510  of one easel can be fitted onto tapered center portion  514  of base  510  of an adjacent easel so that one easel can be nested into the adjacent easel in a repeating pattern. According to a particularly preferred embodiment, as shown in FIG. 33G, board pad, which is intended to prevent damage or marring of the display boards, is made of a neoprene wrap  528  fitted over cross member  506 . 
     A folding easel  530  is shown in FIGS. 34A through 34E. Folding easel  530  is a rigid structure having a pair of substantially upright rearwardly tilted side frame members  532  coupled to an upper horizontal cross member  534  covered by a board pad  528  and a lower horizontal cross member  536 . Side frame members  532  have a curved upper portion  538 . A folding base  540  is pivotally coupled to side frame members  532 . Folding base  540  includes a pair of support arms  542  and a center member  544  (e.g. folding base  540  has a “U”-shaped profile). Support arms  542  of folding base  540  include a projecting tab  546  for pivotal coupling to side frame member  532 . At each curved upper portion  538  of side frame members  532  a compliant retaining system including a grip  548  (e.g. of a compliant or elastomeric material) having deformable fins  550  (e.g. ribs) is provided. At each of upper exposed ends  552  of side frame members  532  a flexible flap  554  (e.g. of a compliant or elastomeric material) is provided (see FIG. 34B) to form a holding area  556  for display boards  100  (shown in phantom lines). An upper folding tray assembly  558  (with a retaining groove  557 ) including a plastic tray  559   a  (of an “L”-shaped profile) is pivotally coupled across side frame members  532 , as shown in FIG. 34E, along with folding base  540  through tabs  546 . A lower folding tray assembly  560  including a plastic tray  559   b  (e.g. substantially identical to plastic tray  559   a  of upper folding tray assembly  558 ) is pivotally coupled across support arms  542  of folding base  540 . According to any preferred embodiment, the pivotal couplings are effected by bolts or other conventional pivotal mounting arrangements. Upper and lower tray assemblies  558  and  560  can be pivoted from a deployed position (shown in FIG. 34A) to a stowed position (shown in FIG.  34 E). A display board  100  rests on upper tray  559   a  and against board pad  528  for display. As shown in FIG. 34D, display board  100  is securely held between grips  548 ; an exposed portion of upper tray  559   a  is available for holding tools such as markers  194  and erasers  195 . Display boards  100  not in use can be stored in holding area  556  of easel  530  resting on lower tray  559   b  and against board pad  528  or against adjacent display boards (as shown in FIGS.  34 C and  34 D). Flexible flaps  554  will serve to keep leaning display boards within base  540 . As is shown in FIGS. 34C, at least one of the display boards stored in holding area  556  is also visible from the rear of easel  530 . When folding easel  530  is not in use, as shown in FIG. 34E, upper and lower tray assemblies  558  and  560  can be stowed and folding base  540  can be folded onto to side frame members  532 , forming a compact structure. 
     An adjustable easel  570  is shown in FIGS. 35 through 37B. Easel  570  is a rigid structure having a pair of substantially upright rearwardly tilted side frame members  572  coupled to a curved back or handle member  574  and to a horizontal cross member  576  covered by a board pad  578 . Side frame members  572  are coupled to a base  580 . Base  580  has a pair of legs  582  coupled by a center portion  584  (providing base  580  with a tapering “U”-shaped profile). A tray support plate  586  is coupled across side frame members  572 . Plate  586  includes at each lateral side a track  588  and a pattern of adjustment slots  590 . An adjustable tray assembly  592  including a base frame  594  having an arm  596 , from which extends a horizontal tray  598 , is adjustably mounted to plate  586  across side frame members  572 . Base frame  594  of tray assembly  592  includes at each lateral side a guide block  600  which fits within corresponding track  588  of plate  586  to allow for guided vertical movement of tray assembly  592  with respect to plate  586 . Base frame  594  of tray assembly  592  also includes at each lateral side a locking member formed as a releasable tab  602  (e.g. a “finger release”). Each locking member  602  includes a rearward projection  604  that is biased into a position that will engage any adjacent corresponding adjustment slot  590  of plate  586  as tray assembly  592  is guided vertically within track  588  of plate  586 . When projection  604  is engaged in any corresponding adjustment slot  590 , tray assembly  592  is retained in the corresponding vertical position with respect to plate  586  (see FIG.  37 B). Each locking member also includes a release lever  606 ; lifting of release lever  606  disengages projection  604  from adjustment slot  590  and frees tray assembly  592  for vertical movement with respect to plate  586  (see phantom line disclosure in FIG.  37 A). Vertical adjustment of the position of tray assembly  592  with respect to plate  586  is therefore defined by the pattern of adjustment slots within plate  586 , each adjustment slot providing a discrete vertical position for tray assembly. A display board  100  (shown in phantom lines in both landscape and portrait mode in FIG. 35) rests on arm  596  of tray assembly  592  and against board pad  578  for display or use. Tray  598  which includes a base depression  608  is available for holding tools such as markers and erasers (not shown). According to any particularly preferred embodiment, the easel is made of a welded steel structure and the tray assembly is formed from a plastic material. 
     A mobile easel  610  is shown in FIGS. 38 and 39. Mobile easel  610  is a generally rigid and symmetrical structure including a generally rectangular base frame  612  having relatively short horizontal side cross members  614  (one is visible in FIG. 38) and relatively long horizontal front (or lower) cross members  616  (one is visible in FIG.  38 ). Base frame  612  also includes four curved legs  618  (three are visible in FIG. 38) and two sets of generally vertical support frame members  620  (three are visible in FIG.  38 ). Each set of support frame members  620  is coupled by a horizontal upper cross member  622  (parallel to a corresponding lower cross member  616  of base frame  612 ). Each support frame member has a curved upper portion  624 . At each curved upper portion  624  of support frame members  620  a compliant retaining system (or compliant member) shown as a grip  626  (e.g. of a compliant or elastomeric material) having deformable fins (or ribs)  628  is provided. A horizontal tray assembly  630  (with a retaining groove  631 ) is installed across each set of support frame members  620  at a location between upper cross member  622  and lower cross member  616 . A folded panel  632  (e.g. a sheet metal panel folded into a rectilinear “U”-shaped profile) is mounted between base frame  612  and each set of support frame members  620  (below each tray assembly  630 ) to form a stowing area  634  for display boards  100  between each set of support frame members  620 . A display board  100  may rest on each tray assembly  630  and upper cross member  622  (which may be covered with a board pad) for display or use. As shown in FIGS. 38 and 39, display board  100  is securely held between grips  626 ; an exposed portion of each tray assembly  630  is available for holding tools such as markers  194  and erasers  195  (not shown). Stowing area  634  is provided with a floor  636  and walls  638  (by panel  632 ) for secure storage of display boards  100  that are not in use. However, stowing area  634  also has open ends  640  and an open top  642  to allow insertion and removal of display boards  100  in an accessible and convenient fashion. Mobile easel  610  includes rotatable wheels  644  on each of four curved legs  618 , installed by known and conventional arrangements according to any preferred embodiment (e.g. with either all four wheels free to turn or with two straight wheels, etc.). 
     FIGS. 39 and 40 show arrangements for the compliant retaining system according to exemplary embodiments. As shown in FIG. 39, curved grip  626  installed on upper curved portion  624  of support frame member  620  (e.g. rail) of the easel includes fins  628  (e.g. ribs) that deform when a display board  100  is press fit into display on the easel (to a shape and extent determined by the position of the display board within the grip) to secure display board  100  to the easel for working and use (e.g. display, writing, erasing, configuring, transport with a mobile easel, etc.). As shown in FIG. 40, according to an alternative embodiment, a grip peg  646  is installed at the interference of vertical support frame member  620   a  and horizontal upper cross member  622   a  and horizontal cross member  622  of the mounting structure (e.g. easel). Grip peg  646  also includes fins  648  (e.g. projections, ribs or fingers, etc.) that deform to secure a display board  100  (shown in phantom lines) to the easel for use; as is evident, fins  648  are thicker than shown in FIG.  39 . As will become apparent to those who review this disclosure, a wide variety of compliant materials may be used for the grips, which according to alternative embodiments may be in a variety of shapes and may or may not include deformable fins (e.g. projections, ribs). According to the preferred embodiments, the grips are made of a compliant material that is soft and durable and can be formed by molding, such as an elastomer or plastic. According to any particularly preferred embodiment, the grips include a series of deformable fins and are formed from an elastic material so that each display board is securely held but may conveniently be removed without damage or marring. The holding force and stiffness provided by the grips may be adjusted by variations in the shape and profile of the grips (e.g. the thickness and spacing of the deformable fins, if fins are employed), as well as the material of construction, location of the grips, orientation of the grips, the spacing distance of the grips, or number of grips (e.g. one or more), etc., according to alternative embodiments. 
     Referring to FIG. 41, a mounting structure is shown as a stand  650  according to an exemplary embodiment. Stand  650  is formed as a unitary structure and is of a generally symmetrical shape. Stand  650  includes a slot  652  for holding a display board  100  and four legs  654  arranged to provide a relatively stable base for display of display board  100 . According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the stand is formed from a molded plastic material (e.g. blow molded). As shown, stand  650  has a shape that allows for stacking of one or more additional stands on top of each other. 
     Referring to FIGS. 42 through 45, a mounting structure is shown as an articulating frame system according to exemplary embodiments. As shown in FIGS. 42 through 45, the articulating frame system can be configured to include a rack of a type shown in FIG. 17 to allow for display and use of display boards. (According to alternative embodiments, display boards may interface with the articulating frame system by any of a wide variety of other mounting structures and methods, including those shown in other FIGURES.) Referring to FIG. 44, an articulating frame  670  includes a pair of vertical frame members  672  and  674  coupled by a horizontal upper cross member  676 , a horizontal intermediate cross member  678 , and a horizontal lower cross member  680  (e.g. each member preferably being a rectangular steel tube welded to form the structure). A base panel  682  or cladding is fastened (e.g. by threaded fasteners  684 ) to intermediate and lower cross members  678  and  680 . Vertical frame member  672  is provided with a pair of hinge blocks  684  (upper) and  686  (lower), each configured to receive a hinge pin  688  (upper) and  690  (lower). Upper hinge pin  688  is secured to a wall  692  (or other structure) by a mounting bracket  694 ; lower hinge pin is secured to (or stands on) a floor  696  on a circular foot  698 ; upper and lower hinge pins share a pivotal axis  700 . Vertical frame member  674  includes a wheel assembly  702  at its base. Wheel assembly  702  includes a frame  704  and an axle  706  retaining a wheel  708  for rotation; wheel assembly  702  is mounted to base of vertical frame member  674  by threaded fasteners  710  (e.g. screws). A of the deformable fins, if fins are employed), as well as the material of construction, location of the grips, orientation of the grips, the spacing distance of the grips, or number of grips (e.g. one or more), etc., according to alternative embodiments. 
     Referring to FIG. 41, a mounting structure is shown as a stand  650  according to an exemplary embodiment. Stand  650  is formed as a unitary structure and is of a generally symmetrical shape. Stand  650  includes a slot  652  for holding a display board  100  and four legs  654  arranged to provide a relatively stable base for display of display board  100 . According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the stand is formed from a molded plastic material (e.g. blow molded). As shown, stand  650  has a shape that allows for stacking of one or more additional stands on top of each other. 
     Referring to FIGS. 42 through 45, a mounting structure is shown as an articulating frame system according to exemplary embodiments. As shown in FIGS. 42 through 45, the articulating frame system can be configured to include a rack of a type shown in FIG. 17 to allow for display and use of display boards. (According to alternative embodiments, display boards may interface with the articulating frame system by any of a wide variety of other mounting structures and methods, including those shown in other FIGURES.) Referring to FIG. 44, an articulating frame  670  includes a pair of vertical frame members  672  and  674  coupled by a horizontal upper cross member  676 , a horizontal intermediate cross member  678 , and a horizontal lower cross member  680  (e.g. each member preferably being a rectangular steel tube welded to form the structure). A base panel  682  or cladding is fastened (e.g. by threaded fasteners  684 ) to intermediate and lower cross members  678  and  680 . Vertical frame member  672  is provided with a pair of hinge blocks  684  (upper) and  686  (lower), each configured to receive a hinge pin  688  (upper) and  690  (lower). Upper hinge pin  688  is secured to a wall  692  (or other structure) by a mounting bracket  694 ; lower hinge pin is secured to (or stands on) a floor  696  on a circular foot  698 ; upper and lower hinge pins share a pivotal axis  700 . Vertical frame member  674  includes a wheel assembly  702  at its base. Wheel assembly  702  includes a frame  704  and an axle  706  retaining a wheel  708  for rotation; wheel assembly  702  is mounted to base of vertical frame member  674  by threaded fasteners  710  (e.g. screws). A rack  220  is mounted to vertical frame member  674  (and alternatively also to vertical frame member  672 ) so that display boards can be installed for use and display. Two handles  712  are also mounted to vertical frame member  674 . Articulating frame  670  is configured for pivotal movement (e.g. with respect to wall  692  or another structure) about axis  700  rolling along wheel  708  in a range of motion between a fully stowed position and a fully deployed position. Referring to FIGS. 42,  43  and  45 , an articulating frame system  720  including two articulating frames  722  and  724  is shown. Each articulating frame  722  and  724  includes two racks  220   a  and  220   b.  Each of racks  220   a  and  220   b  include four display boards  100 . In FIG. 42, each articulating frame  722  and  724  is stowed, but display boards  100  are deployed. In FIG. 43, each articulating frame  722  and  724  is deployed, but display boards  100  are stowed. In FIG. 45, each articulating frame  722  and  724  is stowed in a space frame  726  (shown in phantom lines), but certain display boards  100   a  and  100   b  are partially deployed. As will become evident to those who review this disclosure, a wide variety of configurations are possible for the articulating frame system, employing variations of size, shape, orientation, arrangement, mounting structures, etc., as well as variations in the deployment of display boards. 
     It is important to note that the use of the term “display board” is not meant as a term of limitation, insofar as any “board” or like structure having a decorative or functional use or application is intended to be within the scope of the term. The use of the term “display board” is intended as a convenient reference for any such “board” or structure, which may also be viewed synonymously with the term “work board” or other like terms. It is also important to note that the use of the term “information” is meant to cover any use of any type of media that can be associated with a display board (or work board). 
     Although only a few exemplary embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible in the exemplary embodiments (such as variations in sizes, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, or use of materials) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the invention. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the preferred embodiments without departing from the spirit of the invention as expressed in the appended claims.

Technology Category: g