U.S. patent application number 11/288566 was filed with the patent office on 2006-04-13 for device and method for covering and exposing an object.
Invention is credited to Daniel Hoss.
Application Number | 20060076860 11/288566 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 36144557 |
Filed Date | 2006-04-13 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060076860 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hoss; Daniel |
April 13, 2006 |
Device and method for covering and exposing an object
Abstract
A device for covering and exposing an object, such as a flat
panel display device, can include a support structure movably
attached to a display surface adjacent the object displayed on the
display surface. A cover is attached to the support structure. The
device includes a means for moving the support structure and cover
for selectively covering and exposing the object. The means for
moving the support structure and cover may be manually or
electronically controlled, either directly or by remote
control.
Inventors: |
Hoss; Daniel; (Zug,
CH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
KILPATRICK STOCKTON LLP
1001 WEST FOURTH STREET
WINSTON-SALEM
NC
27101
US
|
Family ID: |
36144557 |
Appl. No.: |
11/288566 |
Filed: |
November 29, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11234659 |
Sep 22, 2005 |
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11288566 |
Nov 29, 2005 |
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10547851 |
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PCT/EP05/03261 |
Mar 29, 2005 |
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11234659 |
Sep 22, 2005 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
312/312 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47B 51/00 20130101;
A47B 81/064 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
312/312 |
International
Class: |
A47B 51/00 20060101
A47B051/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Apr 14, 2004 |
CH |
00649/04 |
Claims
1. A device, comprising: a support structure movably attached to a
display surface adjacent an object displayed on the display
surface; a cover attached to the support structure; and a means for
moving the support structure and cover for selectively covering and
exposing the object.
2. The device of claim 1, wherein the support structure comprises a
U-shaped holder having a base leg having a back side facing toward
the display surface, a carrier leg having a front side facing away
from the display surface, and a connector leg extending between and
connecting the base leg and the carrier leg, wherein the back side
of the base leg is movably attached to the display surface and the
cover is movably attached to the front side of the carrier leg.
3. The device of claim 2, wherein the base leg is movably supported
on the display surface by connector elements and the cover is
movably supported on the carrier leg by connector elements.
4. The device of claim 3, wherein the connector elements comprise
rollers or a slide rail.
5. The device of claim 2, wherein the holder further comprises a
first hinge between the base leg and the connector leg and a second
hinge between the connector leg and the carrier leg, wherein each
hinge is rotatable to a desired angle.
6. The device of claim 5, wherein the hinges are controllable by an
electric motor and wherein the angle of rotation of each hinge is
limited by mechanical or photoelectric limit switches.
7. The device of claim 1, wherein the device comprises at least two
movable support structures, further comprising a connector between
the at least two movable support structures.
8. The device of claim 1, wherein the support structure comprises:
an inner frame having a guide element along each side of the inner
frame; an outer frame having a guide element along each side of the
outer frame, each outer frame guide element movably engagable with
one of the inner frame guide elements, wherein the cover is
attached to the outer frame; and an electric motor attached to the
inner frame and adapted to move the outer frame and cover relative
to the inner frame.
9. The device of claim 8, wherein the electric motor comprises a
toothed gear, the outer frame guide element adjacent the toothed
gear comprises a toothed rack engaged with the toothed gear, and
movement of the outer frame relative to the inner frame is effected
by movement of the toothed rack by the electric motor and toothed
gear.
10. The device of claim 8, further comprising a cable attached to
the electric motor and to the outer frame, wherein the cable is
windable and unwindable by the electric motor and wherein movement
of the outer frame relative to the inner frame is effected by
winding and unwinding the cable by the electric motor.
11. The device of claim 1, wherein the cover comprises a piece of
furniture, the object comprises a flat panel display device, and
the flat panel display device is movable out of and into the
furniture.
12. The device of claim 11, wherein the flat panel display device
is movable out of and into the furniture by means of rotating a
threaded rod operably connected to the flat panel display
device.
13. The device of claim 11, wherein the flat panel display device
is movable out of and into the furniture by a telescopic means.
14. The device of claim 11, wherein, when moved out of the
furniture, the flat panel display device is rotatable and
inclinable to provide an optimal viewing angle.
15. The device of claim 11, wherein movement of the flat panel
display device out of the furniture is automatically actuated by
switching on the flat panel display device and moving the flat
panel display device into the furniture is automatically actuated
by switching off the flat panel display device.
16. The device of claim 1, wherein the display surface comprises a
wall.
17. The device of claim 1, wherein the object is recessed into the
display surface.
18. The device of claim 1, wherein the object comprises a flat
panel display device, a picture, or an air conditioning system
component.
19. The device of claim 1, wherein the cover is removably attached
to the support structure.
20. The device of claim 1, wherein the cover comprises a rigid
material.
21. The device of claim 1, wherein the cover comprises a
picture.
22. The device of claim 1, wherein the object comprises a first
picture and the cover comprises a second picture such that the
second picture is movable to selectively cover and expose the first
picture.
23. The device of claim 1, wherein the cover is movable in a
plurality of directions relative to the object.
24. The device of claim 1, wherein the support structure is
integrated with the object.
25. The device of claim 1, wherein the support structure is
removably attached to the object.
26. The device of claim 1, wherein the means for moving the support
structure and cover is manually operable.
27. The device of claim 1, wherein the means for moving the support
structure and cover comprises an electric motor.
28. The device of claim 1, wherein the means for moving the support
structure and cover further comprises a rope or cable windable and
unwindable by the electric motor.
29. The device of claim 1, wherein the means for moving the support
structure and cover is operable by a remote control device.
30. The device of claim 1, wherein the means for moving the support
structure and cover comprises hydraulic means.
31. A device, comprising: an inner frame attached to a wall
adjacent an object displayed on the wall and having a guide element
along each side of the inner frame; an outer frame having a guide
element on each side of the outer frame, each outer frame guide
element movably engagable with one of the inner frame guide
elements; a rigid cover attached to the outer frame; and an
electric motor attached to the inner frame and adapted to move the
outer frame and cover relative to the inner frame to selectively
cover and expose the object.
32. The device of claim 31, wherein the electric motor comprises a
toothed gear, the outer frame guide element adjacent the toothed
gear comprises a toothed rack engaged with the toothed gear, and
movement of the outer frame relative to the inner frame is effected
by movement of the toothed rack by the electric motor and toothed
gear.
33. The device of claim 31, further comprising a cable attached to
the electric motor and to the outer frame, wherein the cable is
windable and unwindable by the electric motor and wherein movement
of the outer frame relative to the inner frame is effected by
winding and unwinding the cable by the electric motor.
34. The device of claim 31, wherein the object is recessed into the
wall.
35. The device of claim 31, wherein the cover is removably attached
to the outer frame.
36. The device of claim 31, wherein the object comprises a flat
panel display device, a picture, or an air conditioning system
component.
37. The device of claim 31, wherein the cover comprises a
picture.
38. The device of claim 31, wherein the object comprises a first
picture and the cover comprises a second picture such that the
second picture is movable to selectively cover and expose the first
picture.
39. The device of claim 31, wherein the electric motor is operable
by a remote control device.
40. The device of claim 1, wherein the support structure comprises
a rail carriage attached to the display surface, a rail movably
engaged with the rail carriage, and a threaded rod attached to the
rail and operably engaged with the rail carriage, and wherein the
cover is attached to and movable with the rail.
41. The device of claim 40, wherein the means for moving the
support structure and cover comprises an electric motor connected
to the threaded rod for moving the threaded rod, the rail, and the
cover relative to the rail carriage.
42. The device of claim 40, wherein the rail carriage further
comprises a rod guide channel for guiding movement of the threaded
rod relative to the rail carriage and a rail guide channel for
guiding movement of the rail relative to the rail carriage.
43. The device of claim 40, wherein the cover is removably attached
to the rail.
44. The device of claim 41, wherein the means for moving the
support structure and cover is operable by a remote control
device.
45. The device of claim 40, wherein the object comprises a flat
panel display device, a picture, or an air conditioning system
component.
46. The device of claim 1, wherein the support structure comprises
a rail carriage attached to the display surface, a rail movably
engaged with the rail carriage, and a notched belt operably engaged
with the rail and with the rail carriage, and wherein the cover is
attached to and movable with the rail.
47. The device of claim 46, wherein the means for moving the
support structure and cover comprises an electric motor connected
to the notched belt for moving the notched belt, the rail, and the
cover relative to the rail carriage.
48. The device of claim 46, wherein the rail carriage further
comprises a belt guide channel for guiding movement of the notched
belt relative to the rail carriage and a rail guide channel for
guiding movement of the rail relative to the rail carriage.
49. The device of claim 46, wherein the cover is removably attached
to the rail.
50. The device of claim 47, wherein the means for moving the
support structure and cover is operable by a remote control
device.
51. The device of claim 46, wherein the object comprises a flat
panel display device, a picture, or an air conditioning system
component.
52. A method for selectively covering and exposing an object
displayed on a display surface, comprising: attaching a support
structure to the display surface adjacent the object, the support
structure movable relative to the display surface; attaching a
cover to the support structure; and moving the support structure
and cover to selectively cover and expose the object.
53. The method of claim 52, wherein the support structure comprises
a U-shaped holder having a base leg movably attached to the display
surface, a carrier leg for movably attaching the cover, and a
connector leg extending between and connecting the base leg and the
carrier leg.
54. The method of claim 52, wherein the support structure
comprises: an inner frame having a guide element along each side of
the inner frame; an outer frame having a guide element along each
side of the outer frame, each outer frame guide element movably
engagable with one of the inner frame guide elements, wherein the
cover is attached to the outer frame; and an electric motor
attached to the inner frame and adapted to move the outer frame and
cover relative to the inner frame.
55. The method of claim 52, wherein the display surface comprises a
wall.
56. The method of claim 52, wherein the object is recessed into the
display surface.
57. The method of claim 52, wherein the object comprises a flat
panel display device, a picture, or an air conditioning system
component.
58. The method of claim 52, wherein attaching a cover to the
support structure comprises removably attaching the cover to the
support structure.
59. The method of claim 52, wherein the cover comprises a rigid
material.
60. The method of claim 52, wherein the cover comprises a
picture.
61. The method of claim 52, wherein the object comprises a first
picture and the cover comprises a second picture, and wherein
moving the support structure and cover comprises moving the second
picture to selectively cover and expose the first picture.
62. The method of claim 52, wherein moving the support structure
and cover comprises moving the support structure and cover in a
plurality of directions relative to the object.
63. The method of claim 52, wherein moving the support structure
and cover comprises manually moving the support structure and
cover.
64. The method of claim 52, wherein moving the support structure
and cover comprises moving the support structure and cover by means
of an electric motor.
65. The method of claim 52, wherein moving the support structure
and cover comprises moving the support structure and cover by means
of a remote control device.
66. A method, comprising: providing a rail carriage attached to a
display surface adjacent an object, a rail movably engaged with the
rail carriage, and a threaded rod attached to the rail and operably
engaged with the rail carriage; attaching a cover to the rail; and
moving the threaded rod, the rail, and the cover relative to the
rail carriage to selectively cover and expose the object.
67. The method of claim 66, wherein moving the threaded rod, the
rail, and the cover comprises moving the threaded rod, the rail,
and the cover by means of an electric motor connected to the
threaded rod.
68. The method of claim 67, wherein moving the threaded rod, the
rail, and the cover comprises moving the threaded rod, the rail,
and the cover by means of a remote control device.
69. The method of claim 66, wherein attaching the cover to the rail
comprises removably attaching the cover to the rail.
70. The method of claim 66, wherein the object comprises a flat
panel display device, a picture, or an air conditioning system
component.
71. A method, comprising: providing a rail carriage attached to a
display surface adjacent an object, a rail movably engaged with the
rail carriage, and a notched belt operably engaged with the rail
and with the rail carriage; attaching a cover to the rail; and
moving the notched belt, the rail, and the cover relative to the
rail carriage to selectively cover and expose the object.
72. The method of claim 71, wherein moving the notched belt, the
rail, and the cover comprises moving the notched belt, the rail,
and the cover by means of an electric motor connected to the
notched belt.
73. The method of claim 72, wherein moving the notched belt, the
rail, and the cover comprises moving the notched belt, the rail,
and the cover by means of a remote control device.
74. The method of claim 71, wherein attaching the cover to the rail
comprises removably attaching the cover to the rail.
75. The method of claim 71, wherein the object comprises a flat
panel display device, a picture, or an air conditioning system
component.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO PREVIOUS APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a Continuation-in-Part application of,
and claims priority to, U.S. patent application Ser. No.
11/234,659, filed on Sep. 22, 2005, which is a Continuation-in-Part
application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/547,851, filed
on Sep. 1, 2005, which is a National Stage application of
International App. No. PCT/EP2005/003261, filed Mar. 29, 2005,
which claims priority to Swiss Patent App. No. 00649/04, filed Apr.
14, 2004, each of which prior applications is incorporated by
reference herein in its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to a device and method for
covering and exposing an object. Embodiments of the present
invention are useful for selectively covering and exposing flat
objects, such as a flat panel display device, attached to or
recessed in a wall.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Some individuals invest a significant amount of effort and
money in decorating their home in a particular style, including
furniture, artwork, wall coverings, fixtures, and so forth. Some
businesses and retail stores similarly invest in a particular decor
that meets the needs or desires of their owners and customers.
However, homes and businesses employ a wide variety of devices,
fixtures, and structures that may be inconsistent with a desired
decor or style. Examples of such items include electrical control
panels, television sets, wall safes, medicine cabinets, valuable
items of artwork, access openings, mechanical systems, structural
components and the like. When such items interfere with a desired
decor, it may be necessary to disguise or conceal them in some
fashion, or endure an item that is unappealing as compared to the
general decor of a room or space. However, concealment can be
problematic in that it can interfere with access when needed. It
can also be cumbersome to reveal and conceal such items from time
to time. Conventional coverings have been used for such
concealment. A hinged painting in front of a wall safe is one
example. However such an approach is only useful when access is
necessary for a short period of time, because the painting is
unappealing when left in the "open" position.
[0004] Flat panel display devices for displaying electronically
stored information of all kinds are often used today in public
locations, such as in transportation stations, airports, and
museums, in business premises, and in private rooms. The
distribution of such flat panel display devices has been increasing
rapidly. Flat panel display devices of this type provide a
favorable picture quality and are lightweight and can easily be
mounted on a wall or another, portable structure. In a sales room
or exhibition room, such as a gallery or a museum, with a large
amount of customers or visitors, such flat panel display devices
provide more meaningful and up-to-date information and leave a more
permanent impression than printed informational material. Freeze
images, video clips, or computer animations also enable a dynamic
marketing and visual messages whose effect is by far superior to a
presentation of mere printed matter.
[0005] In conferences or meetings, the flat panel display devices
provide a presentation with a professional touch. A flat panel
display device can be mounted to almost any audiovisual device
within a few seconds, for example, to a laptop computer or a DVD
player.
[0006] The high resolution monitors usually have standard
width-to-height ratios of 16:9, wherein the diagonal may vary, for
example, from 82 cm to 127 cm. Such flat monitors may be mounted on
a wall either in landscape format or in portrait format, or they
may be placed at other desired positions. The size of these devices
can vary. Custom flat panel display devices may have sizes of
several square meters. Commercially available models have sizes
similar to those of other objects that can be displayed on a wall,
including, for example, oil paintings, graphics, maps, and
tapestries.
[0007] Such flat panel display devices have a disadvantage. There
are situations in which electronic messages are not be shown on the
display devices. Time periods frequently occur during which the
electronic screen is not used or does not fit in with the decor of
a particular function. Flat panel display devices that are used for
multimedia purposes in a gallery or a museum may not fit the
environment when not in use, for example, when displayed next to
oil paintings or other pieces of art. During these "dead times"
such flat panel display devices often do not match the overall
decor, aesthetics, or atmosphere of a room. Flat panel display
devices occupy space on the wall even at times they are not in use,
and they are normally not dismounted. The wall surface occupied by
such mounted objects therefore lies idle. In public places, in
particular, it is not economical or efficient to have unused
surface or an unused display device. Moreover, the space on public
walls, in galleries and museums, as well as on walls in private
homes, is often limited. A flat panel display device or other
object mounted on a wall, such as a picture, painting, photo,
poster, or hangings of different materials such as fabric, paper,
glass wood, plastics, or stone, occupy a certain portion of the
wall surface that could otherwise be used by other wall claddings.
As such, mounted objects on a wall can compete with alternative
hangings and wall covers for wall space. Thus, displaying a flat
panel display device on a wall decreases the flexibility of use of
the wall space.
[0008] A conventional approach to managing the look of flat panel
display devices is to retract or hide the display device when not
in use. For example, a cover unit for a flat panel video display
has been used to deploy a flexible cover over the display. Such a
device is similar to a window shade that is lowered and raised in
front of a television screen. While such an approach may be
effective at covering a television, it lacks a degree of elegance
that is often desired in a refined decor environment. Thus, there
is a need for a device and method for covering and exposing an
object in a convenient, decorative manner.
[0009] Thus, it is desirable to provide a device and method for
selectively covering and exposing an object, such as a flat panel
display device, that allows flexible use of wall space.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] The present invention provides embodiments of a device and
method for covering and exposing an object. In an embodiment, the
device includes a support structure movably attached to a display
surface adjacent an object displayed on the display surface, such
as a wall. A cover is attached to the support structure. The device
includes a means for moving the support structure and cover for
selectively covering and exposing the object.
[0011] In one embodiment, the support structure includes a U-shaped
holder having a base leg, a carrier leg, and a connector leg
extending between and connecting the base leg and the carrier leg.
The base leg is movably attached to the display surface, and the
cover is movably attached to the carrier leg. The base leg is
movably supported on the display surface by connector elements, and
the cover is movably supported on the carrier leg by connector
elements. The device may include two or more movable support
structures and a connector between the two movable support
structures.
[0012] In another embodiment, the support structure can include an
inner frame having a guide element along each side of the inner
frame. An outer frame has a guide element along each side of the
outer frame, and each outer frame guide element is movably
engagable with one of the inner frame guide elements. The cover is
attached to the outer frame. An electric motor is attached to the
inner frame and adapted to move the outer frame and cover relative
to the inner frame. In an embodiment, the electric motor includes a
toothed gear. The outer frame guide element adjacent the toothed
gear includes a toothed rack engaged with the toothed gear.
Movement of the outer frame relative to the inner frame is effected
by movement of the toothed rack by the electric motor and toothed
gear. In an embodiment, the device includes a cable attached to the
electric motor and to the outer frame. The cable is windable and
unwindable by the electric motor such that movement of the outer
frame relative to the inner frame is effected by winding and
unwinding the cable by the electric motor.
[0013] In another embodiment, the support structure may comprise a
rail carriage attached to the display surface and a rail movably
engaged with the rail carriage. A threaded rod can be attached to
the rail and operably engaged with the rail carriage. A cover can
be attached to the rail so that the rail and the cover can be moved
to selectively cover and expose an object on, or recessed in, a
display surface. An electric motor can be connected to the threaded
rod for moving the threaded rod, the rail, and the cover relative
to the rail carriage. The rail carriage can include a rod guide
channel for guiding movement of the threaded rod relative to the
rail carriage and a rail guide channel for guiding movement of the
rail relative to the rail carriage.
[0014] In another embodiment, a notched belt can be operably
engaged with the rail and with the rail carriage. In this manner, a
cover can be attached to the rail so that the rail and the cover
can be moved to selectively cover and expose an object on, or
recessed in, a display surface. An electric motor can be connected
to the notched belt for moving the notched belt, the rail, and the
cover relative to the rail carriage. In this embodiment, the rail
carriage can include a belt guide channel for guiding movement of
the notched belt relative to the rail carriage and a rail guide
channel for guiding movement of the rail relative to the rail
carriage.
[0015] In another embodiment, the cover comprises a piece of
furniture, the object comprises a flat panel display device, and
the flat panel display device is movable out of and into the
furniture. The flat panel display device can be moved out of and
into the furniture by means of rotating a threaded rod operably
connected to the flat panel display device. Alternatively, the flat
panel display device can be moved out of and into the furniture by
a telescopic means.
[0016] The displayed object can be recessed into the display
surface. The object can be a flat panel display device, a picture,
or other object desired to be displayed on a display surface, or an
object for which displaying is not desired, such as an air
conditioning system component. Embodiments of the present invention
provide means for covering and exposing any of such objects.
[0017] In an embodiment, the means for moving the support structure
and cover can be manually operable. Alternatively, the means for
moving the support structure and cover can include an electric
motor. The means for moving the support structure and cover can be
operated by a remote control device.
[0018] An embodiment of the present invention may include a method
for selectively covering and exposing an object displayed on a
display surface. In one illustrative embodiment of a method, a
support structure can be attached to the display surface adjacent
the object, and the support structure is movable relative to the
display surface. A cover can be attached to the support structure,
and the support structure and cover can be moved to selectively
cover and expose the object. The support structure may comprise a
U-shaped holder having a base leg movably attached to the display
surface, a carrier leg for movably attaching the cover, and a
connector leg extending between and connecting the base leg and the
carrier leg. Alternatively, the support structure may comprise an
inner frame having a guide element along each side of the inner
frame and an outer frame having a guide element along each side of
the outer frame. Each outer frame guide element is movably
engagable with one of the inner frame guide elements. When the
cover is attached to the outer frame, the outer frame and cover can
be moved relative to the inner frame.
[0019] In another embodiment of a method, a rail carriage can be
attached to a display surface adjacent an object displayed on, or
recessed in, the display surface. A rail is movably engaged with
the rail carriage. A threaded rod can be attached to the rail and
operably engaged with the rail carriage. The cover can be attached
to the rail and the threaded rod, the rail, and the cover moved
relative to the rail carriage to selectively cover and expose the
object. In an alternative embodiment of a method, a notched belt
can be operably engaged with the rail and with the rail carriage
such that the notched belt, the rail, and the cover can be moved
relative to the rail carriage to selectively cover and expose the
object.
[0020] In an embodiment of a method, a U-shaped structure, an outer
frame, or a rail having a threaded rod or a notched belt each can
be moved by means of an electric motor. The motor, and thus
movement of the cover, can be actuated by means of a remote control
device. In an embodiment of a method, the device may be configured
so that the cover can be moved in a plurality of directions
relative to the object.
[0021] Features of a device and method for covering and exposing an
object of the present invention may be accomplished singularly, or
in combination, in one or more of the embodiments of the present
invention. As will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the
art, the present invention has wide utility in a number of
applications as illustrated by the variety of features and
advantages discussed below.
[0022] Embodiments of a device and method for covering and exposing
an object of the present invention advantageously provide a means
for conveniently covering an object displayed on or in a wall when
the object is not in use or not desired to be exposed.
[0023] Another advantage is that the present invention provides for
flexible use of wall space.
[0024] Another advantage is that the present invention provides a
device and method for covering and exposing multiple objects in a
defined space in which a predetermined pattern of covers can be
arranged for a particular aesthetic effect.
[0025] As will be realized by those of skill in the art, many
different embodiments of a device and method for covering and
exposing an object according to the present invention are possible.
Additional uses, objects, advantages, and novel features of the
invention are set forth in the detailed description that follows
and will become more apparent to those skilled in the art upon
examination of the following or by practice of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0026] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a movable support structure
having a "U" shape and roller connector elements for movably
connecting the support structure to a display surface and for
movably connecting a cover to the support structure in an
embodiment of the present invention.
[0027] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a movable support structure
having a "U" shape and slide rail connector elements for movably
connecting the support structure to a display surface and for
movably connecting a cover to the support structure in an
embodiment of the present invention.
[0028] FIG. 3 is a top view of a movable support structure having a
"U" shape attached to a display surface and a cover attached to the
support structure, the support structure and cover positioned
adjacent a flat panel display device attached to the display
surface in an embodiment of the present invention.
[0029] FIG. 4 is a side view of two movable support structures each
having a "U" shape, attached to a display surface, and positioned
adjacent a flat panel display device attached to the display
surface, a single cover attached to both of the support structures,
and a connector connecting the two support structures in an
embodiment of the present invention.
[0030] FIG. 5 is a front view of a cover covering an object
attached to a display surface in an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0031] FIG. 6 is a front view of the cover in FIG. 5, moved
laterally to partially expose the object attached to the display
surface in an embodiment of the present invention.
[0032] FIG. 7 is a front view of the cover in FIGS. 4 and 5, moved
laterally farther than in FIG. 4, to fully expose the object
attached to the display surface in an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0033] FIG. 8 is a top view of a movable support structure having a
"U" shape attached to a display surface and a cover attached to the
support structure, the support structure and cover positioned
adjacent a flat panel display device and covering the flat panel
display device in an embodiment of the present invention.
[0034] FIG. 9 is a top view of the movable support structure,
cover, and flat panel display device in FIG. 8, the support
structure and cover each moved laterally to expose the flat panel
display device in an embodiment of the present invention.
[0035] FIG. 10 is a top view of a movable support structure having
a "U" shape and a hinge between each leg of the support structure,
the support structure attached to a display surface and a cover
attached to the support structure, the support structure and cover
positioned adjacent a flat panel display device and covering the
flat panel display device in an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0036] FIG. 11 is a top view of the movable support structure,
cover, and flat panel display device in FIG. 10, the support
structure and cover each moved laterally to expose the flat panel
display device in an embodiment of the present invention.
[0037] FIG. 12 is a top view of two movable support structures each
having a "U" shape, each attached to a display surface and
positioned adjacent a flat panel display device attached to the
display surface, and a cover attached to each of the support
structures in an embodiment of the present invention.
[0038] FIG. 13 is a side view of a movable support structure having
a "U" shape movably fitted about a flat panel display device
attached to a display surface in an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0039] FIG. 14 is a front view of a movable support structure
having an inner frame attached to a display surface and an outer
frame movably engaged with the inner frame by means of guide rails
whereby the outer frame can be moved to cover the flat panel
display device recessed into the display surface above the support
structure in an embodiment of the present invention.
[0040] FIG. 15 is a front view of the device in FIG. 14 in which
the outer frame is moved into position to cover the flat panel
display device in an embodiment of the present invention.
[0041] FIG. 16 is a side view of the device in FIG. 14 in an
embodiment of the present invention.
[0042] FIG. 17 is a side view of the device in FIG. 15 in an
embodiment of the present invention.
[0043] FIG. 18 is a front view of a movable support structure
having an inner frame attachable to a display surface and an outer
frame movably engaged with the inner frame by means of guide rails,
one of the guide rails having a toothed rack engaged with a toothed
gear on an electric motor, whereby the outer frame can be moved
into position to cover and to expose an object in an embodiment of
the present invention.
[0044] FIG. 19 is front view of a movable support structure inside
a piece of furniture, the support structure comprising a transverse
bar movably engaged with threaded rods and drivable by an electric
motor for moving a flat panel display device out of the furniture
for viewing in an embodiment of the present invention.
[0045] FIG. 20 is a front view of the device in FIG. 19, in which
the movable support is moved so as to move the flat panel display
device out of the furniture for viewing in an embodiment of the
present invention.
[0046] FIG. 21 is a front view of a movable support structure
comprising a rail attached to a cover and movably engaged with a
slide carriage attached to a display surface in an embodiment of
the present invention.
[0047] FIG. 22 is a back view of the movable rail-slide carriage
support structure shown in FIG. 21.
[0048] FIG. 23 is a back perspective view of a movable rail-slide
carriage support structure comprising a notched belt and showing a
motor connected at a 90 degree angle to the movable support
structure in an embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0049] The present invention provides embodiments of a device and
method for covering and exposing an object. In an illustrative
embodiment, the device includes a support structure movably
attached to a display surface adjacent an object displayed on the
display surface, such as a wall. A cover is attached to the support
structure. The device includes a means for moving the support
structure and cover for selectively covering and exposing the
object.
[0050] In one embodiment, the support structure includes a U-shaped
holder having a base leg, a carrier leg, and a connector leg
extending between and connecting the base leg and the carrier leg.
The base leg is movably attached to the display surface, and the
cover is movably attached to the carrier leg. The base leg is
movably supported on the display surface by connector elements, and
the cover is movably supported on the carrier leg by connector
elements. The connector elements can be rollers or a slide rail. In
an embodiment, the holder further includes a first hinge between
the base leg and the connector leg and a second hinge between the
connector leg and the carrier leg, and each hinge is rotatable to a
desired angle for foldably moving the holder away from the
displayed object. The device may include two or more movable
support structures and a connector between the two movable support
structures.
[0051] In another illustrative embodiment, the support structure
can include an inner frame having a guide element along each side
of the inner frame. An outer frame has a guide element along each
side of the outer frame, and each outer frame guide element is
movably engagable with one of the inner frame guide elements. The
cover is attached to the outer frame. An electric motor is attached
to the inner frame and adapted to move the outer frame and cover
relative to the inner frame. In an embodiment, the electric motor
includes a toothed gear. The outer frame guide element adjacent the
toothed gear includes a toothed rack engaged with the toothed gear.
Movement of the outer frame relative to the inner frame is effected
by movement of the toothed rack by the electric motor and toothed
gear. In an embodiment, the device includes a cable attached to the
electric motor and to the outer frame. The cable is windable and
unwindable by the electric motor such that movement of the outer
frame relative to the inner frame is effected by winding and
unwinding the cable by the electric motor.
[0052] In another embodiment, the support structure may comprise a
rail carriage attached to the display surface and a rail movably
engaged with the rail carriage. A threaded rod can be attached to
the rail and operably engaged with the rail carriage. A cover can
be attached to the rail so that the rail and the cover can be moved
to selectively cover and expose an object on, or recessed in, a
display surface. An electric motor can be connected to the threaded
rod for moving the threaded rod, the rail, and the cover relative
to the rail carriage. The rail carriage can include a rod guide
channel for guiding movement of the threaded rod relative to the
rail carriage and a rail guide channel for guiding movement of the
rail relative to the rail carriage.
[0053] In another embodiment, a notched belt can be operably
engaged with the rail and with the rail carriage. In this manner, a
cover can be attached to the rail so that the rail and the cover
can be moved to selectively cover and expose an object on, or
recessed in, a display surface. An electric motor can be connected
to the notched belt for moving the notched belt, the rail, and the
cover relative to the rail carriage. In this embodiment, the rail
carriage can include a belt guide channel for guiding movement of
the notched belt relative to the rail carriage and a rail guide
channel for guiding movement of the rail relative to the rail
carriage.
[0054] In another illustrative embodiment, the cover comprises a
piece of furniture, the object comprises a flat panel display
device, and the flat panel display device is movable out of and
into the furniture. The flat panel display device can be moved out
of and into the furniture by means of rotating a threaded rod
operably connected to the flat panel display device. Alternatively,
the flat panel display device can be moved out of and into the
furniture by a telescopic means.
[0055] In an embodiment of the present invention, the displayed
object can be recessed into the display surface. The object can be
a flat panel display device, a picture, an air conditioning system
component, or other object desired to displayed on a display
surface for which it is desirable to cover and expose.
[0056] In an embodiment, the cover can be removably attached to the
support structure. The cover can be a rigid material or a flexible
material. In embodiments, the cover comprises a picture. In a
particular embodiment, the object can be a first picture and the
cover can be a second picture such that the second picture is
movable to selectively cover and expose the first picture. The
cover may be moved in a plurality of directions relative to the
object.
[0057] In an embodiment, the means for moving the support structure
and cover can be manually operable. Alternatively, the means for
moving the support structure and cover can include an electric
motor. The means for moving the support structure and cover can be
operated by a remote control device.
[0058] FIGS. 1-23 show various embodiments of a device and method
of the present invention for covering and exposing an object. FIGS.
1-2 show an embodiment of a device 10 for selectively covering and
exposing an object having a U-shaped holder 11 including a base leg
12, a connector leg 13, and a carrier leg 14. The length relations
of the three legs 12, 13, 14 may be selected depending on the
dimensions of the object to be covered and the cover. Embodiments
of the present invention have particular utility for covering
objects that are relatively flat, such as, for example, a flat
panel display device, a picture, an air conditioning system
component, or other relatively flat object attached to a display
surface desired to be covered. In an embodiment, a device of the
present invention may be used with an object that is not flat but
has depth. In such an embodiment, the movable support structure,
such as holder 11, can be extended outward to accommodate the depth
of the object.
[0059] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the device 10 includes connector
elements 18, 21 for movably supporting the support structure 11 to
the display surface (shown in the base leg 12) and for movably
supporting the cover to the support structure 11 (shown in the
carrier leg 14) of the holder 11. As shown in the embodiment in
FIG. 1, the connector elements 18 may be rollers 19 movable within
a slide track 15 on the base leg 12, and the connector elements 21
may be rollers 22 movable within a slide track 15 on the carrier
leg 14. As shown in the embodiment in FIG. 2, the connector element
18 may be a slide rail 20 movable within the slide track 15 in the
base leg 12, and the connector element 21 may be a slide rail 23
movable within the slide track 15 in the carrier leg 14. In such an
embodiment, the connector elements 18 facilitate movement of the
base leg 12 and the entire holder 11. The connector elements 21
facilitate movement of the carrier leg 14 and the cover 17. In an
embodiment (not shown), the connector elements 18, 21 may be
telescopic elements. For example, such telescoping connector
elements can be telescopingly extendable in a displacement
direction so that the holder 11 can be displaced relative to the
display surface and the cover can be displaced relative to the
holder 11.
[0060] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-3, the holder 11 is
U-shaped. In other embodiments, the holder 11 can have different
configurations that are suitable for movably connecting the holder
11 to a display surface and for movably connecting the cover to the
holder 11 such that both the holder 11 and the cover can be moved
to selectively cover and expose an object adjacent the holder 11 on
the display surface. For example, the holder may be shaped like a
frame or have an "L" shape. An L-shaped holder (not shown) may be
useful if the movable cover already includes a frame to support the
cover. The holder may be attached to the short leg of the L-shaped
holder, and the long leg can be movably attached to a wall. The
movably mounted holder 11 enables the cover to be securely
supported, as well as the holder 11 to be moved along the base leg
12 relative to the display surface and the attached cover 17 to be
moved along the carrier leg 14 relative to the holder 11.
[0061] FIG. 3 shows the device 10 with the U-shaped holder 11 from
the top, wherein it carries a cover 17 on the front side 33 of the
carrier leg 14 (farthest from the wall 16 and facing an observer)
by means of the connector elements 21. The holder 11 is movably
supported to the display surface 16 on the rear side 34 of the base
leg 12 (facing toward the display surface 16) by means of the
connector elements 18. The cover 17 covers a flat panel display
device 30, which is attached to the display surface 16. By
displacing the movably supported holder 11, an object covered in
this manner, such as the flat panel display device 30, may be
exposed.
[0062] As shown in FIG. 4, more than one holder 11 as shown in FIG.
3 can be utilized in an embodiment of the present invention. The
cover 17 is movably attached at its upper portion 37 to a first
holder 11 and is movably attached at its lower portion 38 to a
second holder 35. A connector element 36 may be used to connect the
two or more holders 11, 35 so that the multiple holders 11, 35 move
together. Use of two or more holders 11, 35 may be advantageous to
provide additional support for heavy or large covers 17 and provide
even movement of the upper and lower portions 37, 38, respectively,
of the cover 17. In an alternative embodiment of the present
invention, the holder 11 and cover 17 may be stationary and the
flat panel display device 30 can be movable to cover and expose the
flat panel display device 30.
[0063] The cover 17 can be a flexible material, such as a tapestry
or other decorative fabric. Alternatively, the cover 17 can be a
rigid material, such as a picture or painting in a frame or a
mirror. Preferably, the cover 17 provides a desired aesthetic
effect and can add decorative value to an environment. The flat
panel display device 30 and cover 17 can provide a complementary
aesthetic or decorative effect. For example, a displacement of the
cover 17 downwards, for example, may lead to an observer's
impression that the cover 17 also forms a support column for the
flat panel display device 30, which may increase the aesthetic
effect of the flat panel display device 30 itself.
[0064] FIG. 5 shows a graphic illustration of the device 10 from
the front, in which only the cover 17 is visible. The device 10
includes a cover 17, for example a picture, that covers an object,
for example a flat panel display device 30. As shown in FIG. 6,
lateral displacement 39 of the movably supported holder 11 and the
cover 17 allow the covered flat panel display device 30 to become
visible. FIG. 7 shows the flat panel display device 30 fully
exposed after the holder 11 and cover 17 are fully displaced to the
side of the flat panel display device 30. The object 30 displayed
on the display surface 16 can be partially or completely covered by
the cover 17, as desired. The holder 11 and cover 17 are shown in
FIGS. 5-7 as being displaced laterally, or horizontally. In other
embodiments, the device 10 can be attached to the display surface
16, or otherwise configured, to move vertically or at other than 90
degree angles relative to the object 30 being covered and exposed.
Such flexibility in movement of the cover 17 provides for optimal
use of the device 10 in a various applications. For example, the
cover 17 may be moved into an area on the wall 16 such that the
cover 17 coordinates with the room's decoration or with an adjacent
oil painting, for example.
[0065] The movement of the holder 11 for covering and exposing an
object may be implemented either totally mechanically, such as by
manual movement, or in an electronically controlled manner. For
example, the device 10 may be equipped with an electric motor that
can provide a slow, smooth back and forth movement of the holder 11
and cover 17. Such a motor may be directly connected to the holder
11 or it may be integrated into the connector elements 18, 21. In
an alternative embodiment, an automated means for moving the holder
11 and cover 17 may include a hydraulic drive. An electric motor
may generate the required hydraulic pressure, either instantly when
used or for delayed use by storing a hydraulic charge in a
hydraulic storage unit. Such a means is particularly useful for
heavy and/or large covers 17. In an embodiment, the automated,
electronically-controlled movement of the holder 11 and cover 17
can be actuated by a remote control device, as shown in FIG. 15 and
discussed herein.
[0066] FIG. 8 shows the device 10 having a U-shaped holder 11 from
the top. The base leg 12 of the holder 11 is movably attached the
display surface 16, and the cover 17 is movably attached to the
front side 33 of the carrier leg 14. The device 10 and cover 17 are
shown covering the flat panel display device 30 fixed to the
display surface 16. Lateral displacement 39 of the movably
supported holder 11 and cover 17, as shown in FIG. 9, allows the
flat panel display device 30 to be exposed for viewing.
[0067] In an embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the U-shaped
holder 11 may include a means for moving at angles other than
substantially parallel to the display surface 16. Such means may
provide flexibility of movement desirable in environments where the
space for locating a holder 11 and cover 17 displaced from an
object 30 is limited. In such an embodiment, the holder 11 can
include rotary axes, such as hinges, integrated between the legs of
the holder. As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, a first hinge 40 can be
positioned between the base leg 12 and the connector leg 13 of the
holder 11, and a second hinge 41 can be located between the
connector leg 13 and the carrier leg 14. In FIG. 10, as the holder
11 and cover 17 are positioned to cover the flat panel display
device 30, the base leg 12 and connector leg 13 are positioned at
approximately right angles to each other, and the connector leg 13
and the carrier leg 14 are likewise positioned at approximately
right angles to each other. In FIG. 11, the holder 11 and cover 17
have been moved laterally and the first and second hinges 40, 41,
respectively, have been rotated so that the connector leg 13 is
positioned at approximately 180 degrees (in line) with the base leg
12, and the carrier leg 14 has been collapsed to a position
adjacent to, and substantially parallel with, the base leg 21 and
connector leg 13. In an embodiment, the hinges 40, 41 may include
electric motors (not shown) to effect rotation of the hinges 40,
41. Each hinge 40, 41 may be rotated to a desired angle. The angle
of rotation of each hinge 40, 41 can be adjusted and/or limited by
mechanical or photoelectric limit switches (not shown). Such
positional control of the hinges 40, 41 may be actuated by a remote
control device.
[0068] In an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12, a device 10 for
selectively covering and exposing an object includes two U-shaped
holders 11, 24 movably supported on the display surface 16 adjacent
a flat panel display device 30. Each holder 11, 24 is mounted to
the display surface 16 independent of the other. In this
embodiment, the first holder 11 may be moved to the right 42, and
the second holder 24 may be moved to the left 43. The cover 17 is
movably attached to the first holder 11, and a second cover 44 is
movably attached to the second holder 24. As shown in FIG. 12, two
or more holders 11, 24 can be used in combination so as to provide
for covering and exposing not only the flat panel display device 30
mounted on the display surface 16, but the outer second cover 44
can be moved to cover and expose the inner first cover 11.
[0069] In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13, the device 10
includes the U-shaped movable support structure 11 having the slide
track 20 movably fitted into the slide track 15 on the flat panel
display device 30. The flat panel display device 30 is fixedly
attached to the display surface 16 with wall anchors 45. The slide
track 15 is attached to the flat panel display device 30. In such
an embodiment, the support structure 11 can be moved horizontally
along the slide track 15 so as to cover and expose the flat panel
display device 30.
[0070] In embodiments, the device 10 can be attached to the display
surface 16 before the cover 17 is attached to the holder 11.
Depending on the type and structural design of the cover 17, the
cover 17 may be movably attached to the holder 11 at various
contact points between the cover 17 and the holder 11. As described
herein, electronic and/or hydraulic components may be mounted to
the device 10. The dimensions of the cover 17 are sufficient to
cover a desired object, such as the flat panel display device 30
attached to the display surface 16, as well as the holder 11 and
all other components of the device 10. As shown in FIGS. 3-12, the
design of the holder 11 and cover 17 is such that the holder 11 and
all components of the device 10 are covered by the cover 17 whether
the cover 17 is in position to cover the object or moved to a
position to expose the object.
[0071] In an embodiment of the present invention, the device 10
allows selective covering and exposing of relatively flat objects,
such as a flat panel display device 30. In situations in which it
is desirable for one or more objects displayed on a display surface
to not been seen, such a device 10 allows for one or more of the
objects to be covered. The device 10 may be movably attached to a
planar wall 16, and may alternatively be movably attached to other
display surfaces, such as a column or room divider. The device 10,
and in particular, the holder 11 and cover 17, may be varied in
length, width, depth, and geometry. The cover 17 can be different
materials or objects, depending on the desired look of the display
surface 16 when the object(s) is covered. Cover 17 designs can give
a room, hall, office, or other environment a completely different
look or theme than if the uncovered object is viewable. In
addition, such a relatively flat object covered by the device can
be uncovered for viewing and/or other use at desired times. Such
uncovering can provide a dramatic or other effect for impact to
observers. In this manner, embodiments of the present invention
provide flexible use of a display surface 16, as well as a
multiplied use of available space on a wall or other display
surface 16.
[0072] In an embodiment of the present invention, an object to be
covered can be recessed into the display surface 16 or wall. The
display object preferably rests within the recessed area such that
the object does not project beyond the plane of the recess opening.
In such an embodiment, the cover 17 may need to be moved only a
relatively small distance to selectively cover and expose the
recess and the object positioned therein. The object to be covered,
which is installed in the wall 16, may be a flat panel display
device 30. Other objects, such as air conditioning system
components, which may or may not be recessed in a wall 16, may be
covered by such a device 10 of the present invention. In
embodiments in which the object to be covered is recessed into the
wall 16, an observer may be unable to recognize that the object is
covered by the cover 17. FIGS. 14-18 show embodiments in which the
flat panel display device 30 installed in a recess 46 of a wall may
be selectively covered and exposed.
[0073] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 14, the flat panel display
device 30 is installed in the recess 46 of a wall 16. The support
structure of the device 10 includes an inner frame 50 having a
guide rail 51 along each side of the inner frame 50. The inner
frame 50 is attachable to a display surface 16 with fasteners, for
example screws, via the holes 52. An outer frame 47 has a guide
rail 49 attached along each side of the outer frame 47. The outer
frame guide rails 49 are attached to the outer frame 47 by
fastening means 48. Each outer frame guide rail 49 is movably
engagable with one of the inner frame guide rails 51. A cover 17
(not shown) can be attached to the outer frame 47. An electric
motor 53 is attached to the inner frame 50 and adapted to move the
outer frame 47 and cover relative to the inner frame 50. A cable 54
is attached to the electric motor 53 and to the outer frame 47.
(The cable 54 is indicated by a broken line in FIG. 14.) The cable
54 is windable and unwindable by the electric motor 53 such that
movement of the outer frame 47 and cover relative to the inner
frame 50 can be effected by winding and unwinding of the cable 54
by the electric motor 53.
[0074] Actuation of the electric motor 53 to move the outer frame
47 (and attached cover 17, not shown) to cover and expose the flat
panel display device 30 can be achieved by means of a sending a
signal from a remote control transmitter 60 to a remote control
receiver 61 operably connected to the electric motor 53. The remote
control transmitter 60 can include various control buttons for
controlling movement of the outer frame 47 or other movable support
structure. For example, the button 62 can be used to actuate
movement of the outer frame 47 (and cover 17, not shown) to cover
the flat panel display device 30. The button 63 can be used to
actuate movement of the outer frame 47 (and cover 17, not shown)
from in front of the flat panel display device 30 to expose it. The
button 64 can be used to turn on and off the flat panel display
device 30. In another embodiment, movement of the outer frame 47
(and cover 17, not shown) can be actuated by a wall switch. The
remote control signal can be a radio signal or an infrared signal.
Remote control operation of the device 10 can be programmed into
the same signal that turns a flat panel display device 30 on and
off. For example, the signal that remotely turns on the display
device 30 can be programmed to automatically move the support
structure and cover 17 to expose the display device 30. The signal
that turns off the display device 30 can be programmed to
automatically move the support structure and cover 17 to cover the
display device 30.
[0075] In FIGS. 14 and 16, the outer frame is positioned below the
recess 46 so that the flat panel display device 30 is exposed. In
FIGS. 15 and 17, the outer frame 47 has been moved into positioned
in front of the recess 46 so that the flat panel display device 30
is covered. The dimensions of the cover 17 are sufficient to cover
the flat panel display device 30, as well as the inner frame 50 and
electric motor 53, whether the outer frame cover 47 is in position
to cover or to expose the flat panel display device 30.
[0076] In an embodiment, the cable 54 can be a transparent material
such that when the cover 17 moves, such movement may have the
appearance that the cover 17 is moving independently of other
structures. Alternatively, the cable 54 may comprise a metallic
material that a "technical" aesthetic impression.
[0077] As shown in FIGS. 15 and 17, the outer frame 47 (and
attached cover 17, not shown) can be positioned to fully cover the
flat panel display device, yet leave a portion of the recess 46
uncovered. This arrangement can be useful in situations in which
there is a need to provide an opening to the object when it is
covered. For example, some electronic equipment, for example, a
stereo system, may need to have an opening for air circulation to
cool the electronic components even when the system is covered.
Such an opening can be provided in the top or bottom of the recess,
both at the top and the bottom of the recess, or in other
configurations as needed.
[0078] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 18, the electric motor 53
comprises a toothed gear 65. The outer frame guide rail 49 adjacent
the toothed gear 65 comprises a toothed rack 66 engaged with the
toothed gear 65. Movement of the outer frame 47 relative to the
inner frame 50 can be effected by movement of the toothed rack 66
and outer frame guide rail 49 by the electric motor 53 and toothed
gear 65.
[0079] Such embodiments, particularly those as shown in FIGS.
14-18, may be useful in art galleries that have limited exposition
space. A device 10 of the present invention may provide the ability
to significantly increase the number of art works exhibited. In
addition, a device 10 of the present invention may include a
container (not shown) positioned on the floor below one or more
objects, such as paintings, being displayed on a wall 16. The cover
17 may have attached to it another painting to be displayed when
moved upward into position on the wall 16 over the first painting.
When the cover 17 and attached painting are moved away from the
underlying painting, the cover 17 and attached painting can be
lowered into the container to conceal the presence of the cover 17
and second painting. In this manner, the first painting can be
viewed without the influence of the presence of the second
painting.
[0080] FIGS. 19-20 illustrate another embodiment of a device 10 of
the present invention for covering and exposing an object. In this
illustration, the object is a flat panel display device 30
installed inside a piece of furniture 70, for example, a desk,
credenza, console, or other furniture designed to house such an
object. The device 10 includes a threaded rod 71 on each side of
the device 10 and a transverse bar 72 interconnecting the threaded
rods 71. The transverse bar 72 is moveable along the threaded rods
71 as they are rotated. A ball-and-socket joint 73 can be located
about the center of the transverse bar 72. The flat panel display
device 30 can be coupled to the ball-and-socket joint 73. The
device 10 further includes a pair of first rollers 74 located at
the bottoms of the threaded rods 71, a first belt 75 fitted around
the first rollers 74, an idler roller 76 on one of the threaded
rods 71, and a drive roller 77 on a bracket fixed at the bottom of
the device 10. Both of the rollers 76 and 77 are disposed between
the transverse bar 72 and the bottom of the device 10. A second
belt 78 is fitted around the idler and drive rollers 76, 77,
respectively.
[0081] In operation, a user starts the electric motor 53 to
activate the drive roller 77 in one direction in order to advance
the second belt 78. And in turn, the idler roller 76 is driven by
the conveying second belt 78. Further, one threaded rod 71 is
driven by rotation of the idler roller 76. Such rotation is in
synchronism with that of the other threaded rod 71. In combination,
the rotations are then converted into an upward movement 79 of the
transverse bar 72. Accordingly, the flat panel display device 30 is
lifted from the device 10. The lifting will stop if the flat panel
display device 30 has fully projected above the surface of the
furniture 70 with the transverse bar 72 stopped by a limit switch
(not shown).
[0082] When the user wishes to remove the flat panel display device
30 from the top of the furniture 70 or to hide the presence of the
flat panel display device 30, the user may start the motor 53 in
the opposite direction of rotation to activate the drive roller 77
in order to rotate the second belt 78. And in turn, the idler
roller 76 is driven by the conveying second belt 78. Further, one
threaded rod 71 is driven by rotation of the idler roller 76. Such
rotation is in synchronism with that of the other threaded rod 71.
In combination, the rotations are then converted into a downward
movement 80 of the transverse bar 72. Accordingly, the flat panel
display device 30 is lowered into the furniture 70. The lowering
will stop when the flat panel display device 30 has been fully
covered under the surface of the furniture 70. Such downward
movement may be stopped by a limit switch (not shown).
[0083] Such a device 10 can include other means for moving the flat
panel display device 30 out of and into a piece of furniture 70.
For example, a telescoping means can be attached to the furniture
70 and activated by the electric motor 53 to move the flat panel
display device 30 upward 79 out of the furniture 70 to uncover the
display device 30 and downward 80 into the furniture 70 to cover
the display device 30.
[0084] When moved out of the furniture 70, the flat panel display
device 30 can be rotated and inclined to provide an optimal viewing
angle. Such rotating and inclining movements can be achieved by
moving the flat panel display device 30 about the ball-and-socket
joint 73.
[0085] In an embodiment, movement of the flat panel display device
30 out of the furniture 70 can be automatically actuated by
switching on the flat panel display device 30. Movement of the flat
panel display device 30 into the furniture 70 can be automatically
actuated by switching off the flat panel display device 30.
[0086] In an embodiment, the movable support structure can be
attached to the flat panel display device 30 by the manufacturer of
the display device 30. For example, pre-mounted guide rails, such
as inner frame guide rails 51 as shown in FIGS. 14-17, can be
integrated into the design of the flat panel display device 30 to
coordinate with the design of the display device 30. In other
embodiments, the flat panel display device 30 can include a means
for later attaching a movable support structure.
[0087] FIGS. 21 and 22 illustrate another embodiment of the present
invention useful for moving the cover 17 for selectively covering
and exposing an object such as the flat panel display device 30. In
this embodiment, the device 10 includes a rail carriage 90 fixedly
attached to the display surface 16, such as a wall. A rail 93 is
movably engaged within the rail carriage 90. The rail-rail carriage
support structure shown in FIG. 22 is viewed from the perspective
of the display surface 16 such that an observer is looking at the
back 92 of the rail carriage 90 shown in FIG. 21. A threaded rod
94, or spindle, can be rotatably attached to the rail 93 at each
end of the rod 94 with suitable fasteners such as screws. The
threaded rod 94 is operably engaged with the rail carriage 90. The
rail carriage 90 includes a threaded rod guide channel 99 oriented
toward the front 91 and center and along the longitudinal axis of
the rail carriage 90. The rod guide channel 99 has threads (not
shown) that are matingly engaged with the threads of the threaded
rod 94 for guiding movement of the threaded rod 94 relative to the
rail carriage 90. The rail carriage 90 further includes a rail
guide channel 98 oriented toward the front 91 along the
longitudinal axis on each side of the rail carriage 90 for guiding
movement of the rail 93 relative to the rail carriage 90.
[0088] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 21-22, the means for moving
the support structure (that is, the rail 93-rail carriage 90
support structure) and cover 17 comprises an electric motor 95
connected to the threaded rod 94. The motor 95 is configured to
move the threaded rod 94, the rail 93, and the cover 17 relative to
the rail carriage 90. The motor 95 is attached to the rail 93 with
suitable fasteners, such as the strap fasteners 96 attached to an
extension arm 104 extending from the rail 93. Alternatively, the
motor 95 can be attached directly to the cover 17 using the strap
fasteners 96. A motor connector rod 97 extends from the end of the
motor 95 adjacent the threaded rod 94 and is operably connected to
the threaded rod 94.
[0089] When the motor 95 is actuated, the motor connector rod 97
and the threaded rod 94 rotate in a direction, for example, a
clockwise direction, such that the threaded rod 94 is moved upward
in relation to the rod guide channel 99 in the rail carriage 90. In
this manner, the threaded rod 94 and the attached rail 93 and cover
17 are moved upward, and the flat panel display device 30 displayed
on the display surface 16 can be covered by the cover 17. When the
motor 95 is actuated to rotate in the opposite direction, for
example, in a counter-clockwise direction, the motor connector rod
97 and the threaded rod 94 rotate such that the threaded rod 94 is
moved downward in relation to the rod guide channel 99 in the rail
carriage 90. In this manner, the threaded rod 94 and the attached
rail 93 and cover 17 move downward so as to expose the flat panel
display device 30.
[0090] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, the motor 95 is
connected to the threaded rod 94 and rail 93 in a straight-line
alignment, that is, at a substantially 180 degree angle. In an
alternative embodiment, the motor 95 can be connected to the
threaded rod 94 at a substantially 90 degree angle. Such a 90
degree angle connection of the motor 95 to the rail 93 is shown in
the embodiment in FIG. 23.
[0091] FIG. 23 shows another embodiment of the device 10 of the
present invention similar to that shown in FIGS. 21-22. In this
embodiment, the rail carriage 90 is fixedly attached to the display
surface 16. A notched belt 102 is movably attached about a roller
(not shown) at the top and at the bottom of the rail 93. The
rollers (not shown) are fixedly attached to the rail 93. The rail
93 and the notched belt 102 are movably engaged within the rail
carriage 90. The rail carriage 90 includes a belt guide channel 103
oriented toward the front 91 and center and along the longitudinal
axis of the rail carriage 90. The belt guide channel 103 has teeth
that are matingly engaged with the notches of the notched belt 102
for guiding movement of the notched belt 102 relative to the rail
carriage 90. The rail carriage 90 further includes a rail guide
channel 98 oriented toward the front 91 along the longitudinal axis
on each side of the rail carriage 90 for guiding movement of the
rail 93 relative to the rail carriage 90.
[0092] The bottom roller is operably connected to the motor 95 via
the motor connector rod 97. The motor 95 is configured to rotate
the bottom roller and thus move the notched belt 102, the rail 93,
and the cover 17 relative to the rail carriage 90.
[0093] When the motor 95 is actuated, the motor connector rod 97
and the bottom roller rotate in a direction, for example, a
counter-clockwise direction, such that the notched belt 102 is
moved upward in relation to the belt guide channel 103 in the rail
carriage 90. In this manner, the notched belt 102 and the attached
rail 93 and cover 17 are moved upward, and the flat panel display
device 30 displayed on the display surface 16 can be covered by the
cover 17. When the motor 95 is actuated to rotate in the opposite
direction, for example, in a clockwise direction, the motor
connector rod 97, bottom roller, and notched belt 102 rotate such
that the notched belt 102 is moved downward in relation to the belt
guide channel 103 in the rail carriage 90. In this manner, the
notched belt 102 and the attached rail 93 and cover 17 move
downward so as to expose the flat panel display device 30.
[0094] The motor 95 can be attached directly to the cover 17 using
the strap fasteners 96. Alternatively, the motor 95 can be attached
to the rail 93 with suitable fasteners, such as the strap fasteners
96 attached to the extension arm 103 extending from the rail
93.
[0095] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 23, the motor 95 and gear
are connected to the notched belt 102 at a substantially 90 degree
angle. The motor 95 and gear may be connected to the notched belt
102 in a straight-line alignment, that is, at a substantially 180
degree angle, as shown in FIGS. 21-22. In an alternative embodiment
(not shown), the motor 95 can be attached in parallel arrangement
with the rail 93. That is, the motor 95 can be positioned to the
side of the rail 93 such that the longitudinal axis of the motor 95
is parallel with the longitudinal axis of the rail 93. The motor 95
and motor connector rod 97 are operably linked to the threaded rod
94 or the notched belt 102 via gears or linking structures. Any
suitable arrangement of the motor 95 relative to the rail 93 can be
utilized to operate the device 10.
[0096] The rail carriage 90 can be made from any suitable material
for movably supporting the rail 93 and attached cover 17.
Preferably, the rail carriage 90 is made of a lightweight material,
such as aluminum. The rail carriage 90 includes bearings (not
shown) that provide surfaces on which the rail 93 can slide as the
rail 93 moves within the rail guide channel 98. Such bearings may
comprise a polymeric material.
[0097] The notched belt 102 can be made from any material suitable
for movably engaging the belt guide channel 103 in the rail
carriage 90 and moving the rail 93 and attached cover 17.
Preferably, the notched belt 102 is made from a lightweight
material, for example, a polymeric material, such as polyurethane.
With such construction, the notched belt 102 is lightweight and
quiet during movement and is virtually dirt-resistant and
maintenance-free. Such a support structure comprising the rail
carriage 90 and notched belt 102 is commercially available as the
DRYLIN.RTM. linear actuator from IGUS.RTM. Ltd., Moulton Park,
79/83 Tenter Road, Northampton NN3 6AX, United Kingdom.
[0098] In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 21-23, the automated,
electronically-controlled movement of the rail 93 and cover 17 can
be actuated by a remote control device, as shown in FIG. 15 and
discussed herein. Actuation of the electric motor 95 to move the
rail 93 and cover 17 to cover and expose the flat panel display
device 30 can be achieved, for example, by means of a sending a
signal from the remote control transmitter 60 to the remote control
receiver 61 operably connected to the electric motor 95.
Alternatively, movement of the rail 93 and cover 17 can be actuated
by a wall switch.
[0099] In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 21-23, the cover 17 can be
attached to and movable with the rail 93. The cover 17 may be
removable from the rail 93 such that different covers 17 can be
attached to the rail 93 for covering the flat panel display device
30. In addition to the flat panel display device 30, the object to
be covered and exposed can be a picture, an air conditioning system
component, or other object displayed on the display surface 16.
[0100] In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 21-23, the dimensions of
the cover 17 are sufficient to cover a desired object, such as the
flat panel display device 30 attached to the display surface 16, as
well as the rail carriage 90, rail 93, motor 95, and all other
components of the device 10. The cover 17 has dimensions sufficient
to cover a desired object and the device 10 whether the cover 17 is
in position to cover the object or in position to expose the
object. For example, as shown in FIG. 21, the rail carriage 90 is
attached to the display surface 16 near the flat panel display
panel 30. The cover 17 is attached to the rail 93 with the upper
portion 100 of the cover 17 attached to the top of the rail 93 and
the lower portion 101 of cover 17 attached to the bottom of the
rail 93. In this manner, all components of the device 10 are
covered by the cover 17 when the cover 17 is in position to expose
the flat panel display device 30 and when the cover 17 is in
position to cover the flat panel display device 30. Such
embodiments can cover and expose an object displayed on the display
surface 16, as well as an object recessed into the display surface
16.
[0101] In an embodiment, the motor 95 can be disengaged from the
drive means--for example, either the threaded rod 94 or the notched
belt 102--so that the rail 93 and attached cover 17 can be moved
manually. Disengagement of the drive means provides a user of the
device 10 the ability to disallow movement of the cover 17 when
that is desired.
[0102] Movement of the rail 93 and the attached cover 17 can be
stopped by de-actuation of the motor 95 when the rail 93 moves to a
predetermined point and trips a limit switch (not shown). A limit
switch can be positioned along the path of the rail 93 so as to
limit movement of the rail 93 and cover 17 in the direction of
covering an object and in the direction of exposing an object.
[0103] Embodiments of the present invention can include other types
of drive mechanisms. For example, rather than utilizing the
threaded rod 94, the rail 93 can be of a telescoping type (not
shown) such that rotation of the motor 95 causes telescoping arms
of the rail 93, and thus the attached cover 17, to move in one
direction to cover an object and in the opposite direction to
expose the object. Such a support structure comprising a telescopic
system is commercially available as DRYLIN.RTM. N telescopic system
from IGUS.RTM. Ltd., Moulton Park, 79/83 Tenter Road, Northampton
NN3 6AX, United Kingdom. In other embodiments, the drive mechanism
can employ a chain, cable, or other means (not shown) operably
connected to the motor 95 and configured to move the attached cover
17. For example, a monorail linear movement system useful in
embodiments of the present invention is commercially available as
"Powertrack" from Schneeberger, Inc., 11 DeAngelo Drive, Bedford,
Mass. 01730.
[0104] In embodiments as shown in FIGS. 21-23, the device 10 allows
selective covering and exposing of relatively flat objects, such as
a flat panel display device 30. In situations in which it is
desirable for one or more objects displayed on the display surface
16 to not been seen, such embodiments allow for one or more of the
objects to be covered. The device 10 may be movably attached to a
planar wall 16, and may alternatively be movably attached to other
display surfaces, such as a column or room divider. The device 10,
and in particular, the rail 93 and cover 17, may be varied in
length, width, depth, and geometry. The cover 17 can be different
materials or objects, depending on the desired look of the display
surface 16 when the object(s) is covered. Cover 17 designs can give
a room, hall, office, or other environment a completely different
look or theme when desired objects are covered. In addition, such a
relatively flat object covered by the device 10 can be uncovered
for viewing and/or other use at desired times. Such uncovering can
provide a dramatic or other effect for impact to observers. In this
manner, such rail 93-rail carriage 90 support structure embodiments
provide flexible use of a display surface 16, as well as a
multiplied use of available space on a wall or other display
surface 16.
[0105] An embodiment of the present invention includes a method for
selectively covering and exposing an object displayed on a display
surface, such as a wall 16. In such a method, a support structure
is attached to the display surface 16 adjacent the object 30. The
support structure is movable relative to the display surface 16. A
cover 17 is fixedly or removably attached to the support structure.
The support structure and cover 17 can be moved to selectively
cover and expose the object 30. In one embodiment, as shown in
FIGS. 1-4, the support structure comprises a U-shaped holder 11
having a base leg 12 movably attached to the display surface 16, a
carrier leg 14 for movably attaching the cover 17, and a connector
leg 13 extending between and connecting the base leg 12 and the
carrier leg 14. In another embodiment of a method of the present
invention, the displayed object 30 may be recessed into the display
surface 16. In such an embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 14-17, the
support structure comprises an inner frame 50 having a guide rail
51 along each side of the inner frame 50. An outer frame 47 has a
guide rail 49 along each side of the outer frame 47. Each outer
frame guide rail 49 is movably engagable with one of the inner
frame guide rails 51. The cover 17 is attachable to the outer frame
47. An electric motor 53 is attached to the inner frame 50 and
adapted to move the outer frame 47 and cover 17 relative to the
inner frame 50.
[0106] In embodiments of such methods, the object can comprise a
flat panel display device 30, a picture, an air conditioning system
component, or other relatively flat object attached to a display
surface 16 desired to be covered. The cover 17 can be a flexible
material, such as a tapestry or other decorative fabric. In other
embodiments, the cover 17 can comprise a rigid material. For
example, the cover 17 may be a picture or a mirror. In an
embodiment of a method, the object comprises a first picture and
the cover 17 comprises a second picture. The support structure and
second picture can be moved to selectively cover and expose the
first picture.
[0107] In an embodiment of a method, the support structure and
cover 17 can be moved in a plurality of directions relative to the
object. The support structure and cover 17 can be moved by means of
an electric motor 53. In such an embodiment, movement of the
support structure and cover 17 can be actuated by means of a remote
control device 60, 61. In another embodiment, the support structure
and cover 17 can be moved manually.
[0108] In another embodiment of a method, the rail carriage 90 can
be attached to the display surface 16 adjacent an object displayed
on, or recessed in, the display surface 16. The rail 93 is movably
engaged with the rail carriage 90. The threaded rod 94 can be
attached to the rail 93 and operably engaged with the rail carriage
90. The cover 17 can be attached to the rail 93 and the threaded
rod 94, the rail 93, and the cover 17 moved relative to the rail
carriage 90 to selectively cover and expose the object. In an
alternative embodiment of a method, the notched belt 102 can be
operably engaged with the rail 93 and with the rail carriage 90
such that the notched belt 102, the rail 93, and the cover 17 can
be moved relative to the rail carriage 90 to selectively cover and
expose the object. In such embodiments, the rail 93 and attached
cover 17 and either the threaded rod 94 or the notched belt 102 can
be moved by means of a motor 95. The motor 95 can be actuated by
means of a remote control device 60, 61.
[0109] Although the present invention has been described with
reference to particular embodiments, it should be recognized that
these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles of the
present invention. Those of ordinary skill in the art will
appreciate that a device and method for covering and exposing an
object of the present invention may be constructed and implemented
in other ways and embodiments. Accordingly, the description herein
should not be read as limiting the present invention, as other
embodiments also fall within the scope of the present
invention.
* * * * *