Floating Picture Frame

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of pending U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/569,322 filed on Mar. 25, 2024; the above identified patent application is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to picture frames. More specifically, the present invention relates to floating picture frames that create the visual impression that an inserted picture element is suspended within the frame.

Picture frames are widely used for displaying photographs, artwork, and other visual media, serving both protective and decorative functions. Conventional picture frames typically consist of a frame body that encloses the perimeter of the displayed image, often incorporating a transparent cover, such as glass or acrylic, to shield the picture from dust and physical damage. While these traditional frames effectively preserve and protect the image, they often obscure portions of the picture element, particularly along the edges, limiting the full visibility of the artwork or photograph. This design can be particularly problematic for images that contain details or compositions extending to the margins, as portions of the picture may be hidden beneath the frame borders.

Many conventional picture frames rely on backing boards, metal tabs, or adhesive fasteners to secure the picture element in place. These fastening methods often require users to disassemble the frame when replacing or repositioning the image, making it inconvenient to swap pictures frequently. Additionally, adhesive-based retention methods can leave residue or degrade over time, leading to potential damage or discoloration of the picture element. Similarly, pressure-fit frames or those utilizing rigid clips may compress the picture element, causing warping or distortion, particularly for delicate materials such as thin photographs, fabric prints, or artwork on lightweight paper.

Another limitation of standard picture frames is their inflexibility in terms of display options. Many frames are designed exclusively for wall mounting, requiring nails, screws, or hanging hardware for installation. While wall-mounted frames provide a permanent display solution, they lack versatility for placement on desks, shelves, or tabletops. Some frames include rear support structures, such as hinged stands or easel backs, to allow for freestanding display. However, these stands are often limited to fixed positions, restricting adjustability and making it difficult for users to customize the viewing angle. Additionally, hinged stand members may become unstable over time, leading to an increased risk of the frame tipping or falling.

The material composition of traditional picture frames also presents concerns regarding durability and sustainability. Many frames are constructed from plastic, synthetic composites, or non-renewable wood sources. While these materials may provide structural integrity, they contribute to environmental waste and may lack the refined aesthetic appeal of natural materials. Plastic frames, in particular, are prone to cracking, discoloration, or becoming brittle over time, reducing their long-term usability. In light of these challenges, there exists a need for an improved picture frame that provides a visually unobstructed display, facilitates easy replacement of picture elements, offers versatile display configurations, and incorporates sustainable materials.

The present invention addresses these challenges by providing a floating picture frame that enhances the illusion of a suspended picture element while eliminating visible fasteners and adhesives. The frame incorporates a channel between an outer frame and an inner mounting plate, fully enclosing the mounting plate while maintaining accessibility from the front side. This configuration allows for a clean, seamless display without visible clips, screws, or adhesive residue. The invention further improves user convenience by incorporating an interchangeable retention mechanism, such as a magnetic holding system, enabling quick and effortless picture changes without the risk of damage. The frame construction utilizes a single monolithic structure, such as multi-layered bamboo, providing an eco-friendly and aesthetically refined alternative to conventional materials.

In light of the devices disclosed in the known art, it is submitted that the present invention substantially diverges in design elements and methods from the known art and consequently it is clear that there is a need in the art for an improvement of a floating picture frame. In this regard the instant invention substantially fulfills these needs.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the known types of floating picture frames now present in the known art, the present invention provides a new floating picture frame wherein the same can be utilized for displaying picture elements such that they appear suspended.

It is an objective of the present invention to provide a floating picture frame comprising a frame body with an outer frame and an inner mounting plate, wherein a channel is formed between the outer frame and the inner mounting plate. The channel fully encloses the inner mounting plate while remaining accessible from the front side, allowing a picture element to be positioned without visible retention mechanisms.

It is an objective of the present invention to provide a floating picture frame comprising a retention mechanism that is integrated into the mounting plate and may include an interchangeable holding magnet, double-sided mounting tape, or a clip or clasp. This configuration allows for easy insertion and removal of the picture element while maintaining a clean and unobstructed display.

It is an objective of the present invention to provide a floating picture frame comprising a support member that is disposed on the rear side of the frame body, enabling stable support in both portrait and landscape orientations at varying angles. Additionally, a wall mounting option is incorporated, allowing the frame to be securely attached to a vertical surface without requiring additional modifications.

It is an objective of the present invention to provide a floating picture frame that accommodates various picture element sizes while maintaining a uniform channel width. The channel structure is designed to provide a consistent visual gap around the perimeter of the picture element. The mounting plate may be configured to accept different picture element thicknesses without compromising the floating effect.

It is an objective of the present invention to provide a floating picture frame constructed as a single monolithic structure to increase durability thereof. The frame body may be manufactured using a CNC router to achieve smooth and precise edges, ensuring a high-quality finish. In certain embodiments, the frame body is composed of a sustainable material, such as layered bamboo, offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional frame materials.

It is an objective of the present invention to provide a floating picture frame that facilitates rapid picture element replacement. The use of an interchangeable retention mechanism allows users to swap pictures without the need for disassembly, adhesives, or additional securing components. In this way, the frame allows for frequent updates, such as art displays or commercial signage.

It is an objective of the present invention to provide a floating picture frame that minimizes damage to the displayed picture element by eliminating pressure points and mechanical fasteners. The use of magnetic retention or non-adhesive securing methods prevents warping, tearing, or residue buildup on the picture element.

It is an objective of the present invention to provide a floating picture frame with improved manufacturability and assembly efficiency. The monolithic construction reduces the number of separate components required for frame assembly, streamlining production processes. Additionally, the use of sustainable materials and precision machining techniques ensures cost-effective manufacturing while maintaining high-quality standards.

Other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF THE DRAWINGS

Although the characteristic features of this invention will be particularly pointed out in the claims, the invention itself and manner in which it may be made and used may be better understood after a review of the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the floating picture frame.

FIG. 2 shows a cut away view of an embodiment of the floating picture frame.

FIG. 3 shows a rear perspective view of an embodiment of the floating picture frame.

FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of the second embodiment of the floating picture frame.

FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of the floating picture frame in use.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Reference is made herein to the attached drawings. For the purposes of presenting a brief and clear description of the present invention, the preferred embodiment will be discussed as used for suspending a picture element within the floating picture frame that is set upon a tabletop surface. The figures are intended for representative purposes only and should not be considered to be limiting in any respect.

Reference will now be made in detail to the exemplary embodiment(s) of the invention. References to “one embodiment,” “at least one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “one example,” “an example,” “for example,” and so on indicate that the embodiment(s) or example(s) may include a feature, structure, characteristic, property, element, or limitation but that not every embodiment or example necessarily includes that feature, structure, characteristic, property, element, or limitation. Further, repeated use of the phrase “in an embodiment” does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment.

Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2, there is shown an exploded view and a cut away view of an embodiment of the floating picture frame, respectively. The floating picture frame 1000 comprises a frame body 1100 that houses a picture element 1200 while creating the visual effect of suspension. In the illustrated embodiment, the picture element 1200 is positioned on an inner mounting plate 1300 without being compressed between a transparent cover such as glass or plexiglass. A channel 1400 is defined around the perimeter 1210 of the picture element 1200 when mounted to the frame body 1100, producing the appearance of a floating display.

The frame body 1100 includes an outer frame 1120 and the inner mounting plate 1300, wherein the outer frame 1120 extends around and encloses the inner mounting plate 1300, forming the channel 1400 between the two components. In the illustrated embodiment, the channel 1400 encloses the edges of the inner mounting plate 1130 while remaining accessible from the front side 1140 of the frame body 1100, allowing for seamless insertion and removal of a picture element 1200. In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting plate 1300 is rectangular in shape and dimensioned to fit entirely within the outer frame 1120. In the shown embodiment the mounting plate 1300 and outer frame 1120 comprise a same shape, wherein the mounting plate 1300 is concentric with the outer frame 11120, providing a uniform channel width around its perimeter to maintain a consistent floating effect. In some embodiments, the inner mounting plate and the outer frame 1120 comprise a different shape from one another, however, still maintaining a channel formed therebetween.

The front side 1140 of the mounting plate 1300 comprises a retention mechanism 1320 adapted to receive and retain the picture element 1200 to the frame body 1100. In the illustrated embodiment, the retention mechanism comprises a double sided mounting member having a first side configured to adhere to the inner mounting plate surface and a second side adapted to adhere to the back side of the picture element 1200. The mounting member comprises a similar shape to the inner mounting plate and is adapted to cover over 50 percent of the front surface area. However, in the shown embodiment, the mounting member does not extend beyond the perimeter edge of the inner mounting plate.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 2, the edges 1340 of the inner mounting plate 1300 extend within the channel 1400. However, in alternate embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 1, the edges 1340 of the inner mounting plate 1300 form a 90 degree angle with the channel. In this way, alternate embodiments are adapted to provide varying sized channel widths, wherein the width of the channel is measured as the distance between the outer frame and the inner mounting plate.

Referring now to FIG. 3, there is shown a rear perspective view of the floating picture frame. In some embodiments, the rear side 1150 of the frame body 1100, opposite the front side, comprises a support member 1500 configured to support the frame 1100 in an upright position when placed on a tabletop or shelf. In the shown embodiment, the frame body 1100 includes one or more pins 1510 on the rear side 1150 of the frame body 1100, which can be inserted into corresponding holes (as seen in FIGS. 1 and 4, 1520) to position the frame body 1100 in an upright position. In some embodiments, the holes extend from the rear side to the front side of the inner mounting plate, whereas in other embodiments, the holes form a recess within the rear side of the inner mounting plate. This allows the frame 1000 to be displayed in both portrait and landscape orientations, depending on the orientation of the pin holes 1520. The pin holes 1520 are spaced evenly on the rear side 1150 of the frame body 1100, allowing for flexible positioning and stability of the frame 1000 when in an upright position. In some embodiments, the pins 1510 may be removable, allowing for easy storage and transport of the frame. Alternative shapes for the pin holes and pins may also be used in different embodiments of the floating picture frame. For example, instead of circular pin holes, the frame body may include square or triangular holes, which would allow the pins to be positioned at different angles and orientations. Additionally, the pins themselves may be shaped differently, such as being elongated or curved, to provide greater stability and a more unique aesthetic appearance.

In the illustrated embodiment, the frame body is constructed from a sustainable and eco-friendly material, such as carbonized 3-ply bamboo, which provides durability, structural integrity, and a refined aesthetic appearance. However, in alternate embodiments, the frame body may be fabricated from a variety of materials suited for frame construction, including acrylic, injection-molded plastic, softwood, hardwood, metal alloys, or composite materials. The selection of materials may vary depending on manufacturing requirements, aesthetic preferences, and structural performance. In the illustrated embodiment, the frame body comprises a thickness ranging from 0.25 inches to 2 inches, wherein the thickness is measured as the distance between the front side and the rear side of the frame body. In alternate embodiments, the frame body thickness may be modified to accommodate different picture element sizes or design variations while maintaining structural stability and the floating effect.

Referring now to FIG. 4, there is a shown perspective view of a second embodiment of the floating picture frame. In the shown embodiment, the inner mounting plate 1300 extends centrally from the outer frame 1120 and includes a recessed area 1330 extending from a first end 1335 to a second end 1345. The retention mechanism 1320 in this second embodiment is one or more magnets that are otherwise secured to the picture element 1200 and the mounting plate 1300, respectively. The one or more magnets 1600 comprise a first and second magnet 1610, 1620, wherein the first magnet 1610 is fastened to the mounting plate 1300 via adhesive and the second magnet 1620 is fastened to the picture element 1200 via adhesive. The first and second magnets 1610, 1620 are sized to be positioned with the recessed area 1330. In the shown embodiment, the recessed area 1330 has a depth equal to the thicknesses of both the first and second magnets. In this way, the picture element 1200 is adapted to rest flush with the front face.

In the shown embodiment, the picture element 1200 extends over the outer edge 1340 of the mounting plate 1300 thereby allowing a user to position the picture element 1200 within the outer frame 1120. In this way, the user may adjust the size of the revealed channel. Additionally, this provides for accommodation of various size picture elements. In the illustrated embodiment, the picture element 1200 comprises a metal dye sublimated photo. However, in alternate embodiments, the picture element comprises any suitable material that can be printed on or receive or display an image, such as acrylic, wood, glass, a digital screen, and the like. In other embodiments, the picture element comprises a plurality of separate picture elements that can be secured to the frame body.

Referring now to FIG. 5, there is shown a perspective view of an embodiment of the floating picture frame in use. In one embodiment, the frame body 1100 of the floating picture frame 1000 comprises a rectangular shape having rounded corners, wherein the outer frame and inner mounting plate define a channel with a uniform width around the perimeter of the picture element 1200. The rectangular configuration provides a structured and symmetrical appearance suitable for standard photographic and artwork dimensions. In another embodiment, the frame body is configured with a circular cross-sectional shape, wherein the outer frame 1120 and inner mounting plate form a continuous annular channel 1400 that extends around the entire circumference of the frame body perimeter. This circular configuration allows for the uniform suspension of round picture elements while maintaining structural integrity. In yet another embodiment, the frame body comprises an oval shape, wherein the channel structure formed between the outer frame and inner mounting plate follows an elliptical contour. This embodiment is particularly suitable for portrait-style or vintage artwork, maintaining a balanced floating effect across the elongated axis of the frame. Additional variations of the frame body geometry include, but are not limited to, square, triangular, hexagonal, octagonal, and irregular-shaped configurations, wherein the channel structure is proportionally adapted to maintain uniform spacing around the picture element.

The various embodiments of the floating picture frame 1000 may be produced in different dimensions to accommodate a range of picture sizes while preserving the floating effect. For example, a smaller frame body may be dimensioned to receive a 4×6 inch picture element, while a larger frame body may be configured for an 8×10 inch picture element. In some embodiments, the floating picture frame may be offered as part of a modular frame system, wherein multiple frames of varying sizes, shapes, or colors are arranged in a coordinated display. This allows for the creation of customizable arrangements, such as collage-style layouts or gallery-style groupings, wherein the floating effect is maintained across multiple framed images.

In alternative embodiments, the retention mechanism is configured to securely affix the picture element to the inner mounting plate through various mechanical securing methods. For example, in some embodiments, the retention mechanism comprises a series of clips or clamps integrated into the inner mounting plate, wherein the clips are designed to hold the picture element in place while remaining concealed from the front-facing view of the frame. In other embodiments, a spring-loaded fastening system is implemented within the inner mounting plate, wherein the tension of the mechanism ensures firm retention while allowing for easy removal and replacement of the picture element. Additionally, in some configurations, the support member is designed with an adjustable articulation mechanism, such as a hinged support leg, which enables the frame to be positioned at a range of angles. This configuration provides flexibility in tabletop or shelf display, allowing users to optimize the viewing orientation of the picture element.

In alternate embodiments, the frame body includes a wall mounting system that allows for secure vertical placement on a wall surface. In one embodiment, the wall mount comprises an aperture positioned on the rear side of the frame body, wherein the aperture is dimensioned to receive a fastener or mounting hook protruding from a wall surface. In another embodiment, the wall mount system consists of a precision-cut mounting bracket integrated into the rear side of the frame body, wherein the bracket interfaces with a locking hook or wall-mounted track system to maintain stability. Additional wall mounting configurations include, but are not limited to, adhesive-based fasteners, secondary hanger mounts affixed via pressure-sensitive adhesive, leveling picture hangers, magnetic wall mounts, and modular frame rails, allowing for flexible and secure wall installations.

It is therefore submitted that the instant invention has been shown and described in what is considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments. It is recognized, however, that departures may be made within the scope of the invention and that obvious modifications will occur to a person skilled in the art. With respect to the above description then, it is to be realized that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly, and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by the present invention.

Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention.