U.S. patent application number 14/321661 was filed with the patent office on 2015-05-14 for modular display system.
The applicant listed for this patent is Bernard Benlevi. Invention is credited to Bernard Benlevi.
Application Number | 20150128398 14/321661 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 53042400 |
Filed Date | 2015-05-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150128398 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Benlevi; Bernard |
May 14, 2015 |
MODULAR DISPLAY SYSTEM
Abstract
A portable, modular display system and method for use that can
esthetically display food or other items on a rigid surface(s) or a
series of steps that are illuminated, and these modules can be
assembled into a variety of decorative configurations enabling
adaptation to an event venue.
Inventors: |
Benlevi; Bernard; (Roslyn,
NY) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Benlevi; Bernard |
Roslyn |
NY |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
53042400 |
Appl. No.: |
14/321661 |
Filed: |
July 1, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61841572 |
Jul 1, 2013 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
29/426.2 ;
29/428; 312/126 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47F 5/16 20130101; A47F
10/06 20130101; A47B 2230/0011 20130101; A47F 11/10 20130101; A47J
36/24 20130101; Y10T 29/49817 20150115; Y10T 29/49826 20150115 |
Class at
Publication: |
29/426.2 ;
312/126; 29/428 |
International
Class: |
A47F 3/00 20060101
A47F003/00; A47B 47/00 20060101 A47B047/00; A47F 10/06 20060101
A47F010/06; A47F 3/14 20060101 A47F003/14; A47F 7/00 20060101
A47F007/00 |
Claims
1. A modular display system comprising of at least one of the
following (i, through vii.): i.) a first display module having at
least one wire, and/or a wire or other material structure or frame
and/or at least one flat rigid surface; a second or thereafter
additional display module having at least one wire, and/or a wire
or other material structure or frame and at least one flat rigid
surface; said second or thereafter additional display module being
removably attached to or placed upon and/or above the first or
previously positioned display module in a gradually upward and
setback stepwise fashion; at least one rigid surface of said second
or thereafter additional display module extending over said first
or previously positioned display module to form a canopy partially
overhanging said first or previously positioned display module; and
a lighting device secured to said canopy. and/or ii.) a first
display module having at least four rigid surfaces attached
together to form a step-like structure; a second and/or thereafter
additional display module(s) also having at least four rigid
surfaces attached together to form a second step-like structure;
said second and/or thereafter additional display module(s) being
attached to or placed upon and/or above the first or previously
positioned display module in a gradually upward and setback
stepwise fashion; at least one rigid surface of said second and/or
thereafter additional display module extending over said first or
previously positioned display module to form a canopy partially
overhanging said first or previously positioned display module; and
a lighting device secured to said canopy. and/or iii.) a first
display module having at least four rigid surfaces attached
together to form a step-like structure with a second and/or
thereafter additional display module also having at least four
rigid surfaces attached together to form a second or thereafter
additional step-like structure; a lighting device secured to said
canopy; a tray capable of for holding liquids and/or solids; an
additional lighting device; and one or more clear or frosted
decorative display panels being attached or placed upon and/or
above said tray and/or said one of four rigid surfaces in said
second and/or thereafter additional display module. and/or iv.) a
first display module having at least four rigid surfaces attached
together to form a step-like structure and a second and/or
thereafter additional display module also having at least four
rigid surfaces attached together to form a second step-like
structure; one of said four rigid surfaces in any of said display
module(s) has a hole and/or area of material removed; at least one
rigid surface of said second and/or thereafter additional display
module(s) extends over said first or previously positioned display
module to form a canopy partially overhanging said first or
previously positioned second and/or thereafter additional display
module; a lighting device secured to said canopy; a warming,
heating, or cooking device; an additional lighting device; and one
or more clear or frosted decorative display panels being attached
or placed upon and/or above said one of four rigid surface in said
second and/or thereafter additional display module(s). and/or v.) a
first display module having at least four rigid surfaces attached
together to form a step-like structure; a second and/or thereafter
additional display module also having at least four rigid surfaces
attached together to form a second and/or thereafter additional
step-like structure; at least one rigid surface of said second or
thereafter additional display module(s) extend over said first or
previously positioned display module(s) to form a canopy partially
overhanging said first and/or previously positioned display
module(s); a lighting device secured to said canopy; an additional
lighting device; and one or more clear or frosted decorative
display panels being attached or placed upon and/or above said one
of four rigid surfaces in said second and/or thereafter additional
display module(s). and/or vi) a first display module having at
least four rigid surfaces attached together to form a step-like
structure; a front facade and light support to form a canopy
partially overhanging said first display module; a lighting device
secured to said canopy; an additional lighting device; and one or
more clear or frosted decorative display panels being attached or
placed upon and/or above said one of four rigid surfaces in said
first display module. and/or vii.) a first display module having at
least one rigid surface attached to a first frame to form a
step-like structure; a second or thereafter additional display
module also having at least one rigid surface attached to a second
or thereafter additional frame to form a second and/or thereafter
additional step-like structure; said second or thereafter
additional display module being attached to or placed upon and/or
above the first and/or previously positioned display module in a
gradually upward and setback stepwise fashion; at least one rigid
surface of said second or thereafter additional display module
extending over said first or previously positioned display module
to form a canopy partially overhanging said first and/or previously
positioned display module; and a lighting device secured to said
canopy.
2. The modular display system of claim 1 wherein at least one of
said first display module or second or thereafter additional
display module(s) has a surface either made of a frosted material,
having a frosted material and/or surface mounted thereon, or having
a frosted material and/or surface placed thereon.
3. The modular display system of claim 2 wherein said frosted
material and/or surface is at least one of glass, plastic, colored,
tinted, translucent, and/or clear.
4. The modular display system of claim 1(i) wherein said first
display module includes at least one additional bottom rigid
surface on the bottom thereof.
5. The modular display system of claim 1(i), 1(ii), 1(iii), 1(iv),
1(v) and 1(vi) wherein the back of at least one of the said display
modules has an opening on at least one side to the ambient.
6. The modular display system of claims 1(i) and 1(ii) wherein the
depth of all of said display modules are no greater than 30 inches
deep each.
7. The modular display system of claim 1(i) wherein at least one
rigid surface from each display module is on top of said wire or
other material structure or frame.
8. The modular display system of claim 1(i) wherein the thereafter
additional modules can continue to be removeably attached to
previously positioned modules so as to allow an unlimited quantity
of modules to be placed and removeably attached to one another.
9. The modular display system of claims 1(ii), 1(iv), and 1(v)
wherein at least one of said first and/or second or thereafter
additional display module(s) can be made of wire, and/or a wire or
other material structure or frame and at least one rigid
surface.
10. The modular display system of claim 1(ii) wherein said first
display module may include a fifth rigid surface on the bottom
thereof.
11. The modular display system of claim 1(iii) further comprising
at least one chef table and at least one banquet table, said chef
table being 18 inches deep and said banquet table being 30 inches
deep.
12. The modular display system of claim 11 whereby said at least
one chef table and/or said at least one banquet table can be 4
and/or 6 and/or 8 feet wide.
13. The modular display system of claim 1(iii) wherein said second
display module is made of wire, and/or a wire or other material
structure or frame and at least one rigid surface instead of four
rigid surfaces.
14. The modular display system of claim 1(iii) wherein said tray
can be made of acrylic or other material.
15. The modular display system of claim 1(iii) wherein a single
molded piece can be used for the three or more rigid surfaces
forming a tray support base upon which tray support plate can be
mounted and/or placed.
16. The modular display system of claim 1(iii) further comprising a
device for draining water, said device attached to said tray and
consisting of at least one of a hole, a flange, and/or a tube.
17. The modular display system of claims 1(iii), 1(iv), 1(v) and
1(vi) wherein the decorative display panels can be constructed of
one of the following materials: glass, plastic, frosted, clear,
and/or translucent.
18. The modular display system of claim 17 wherein said decorative
display panels can be rectangular, planar, curved and/or or other
shapes.
19. The modular display system of claim 18 wherein said decorative
display panels can be joined and/or assembled together using
brackets and/or angled brackets and/or Velcro and/or adhesive.
20. The modular display system of claim 1(vi) further comprising a
decoration display module comprising at least three rigid
decoration surfaces, a means of joining said rigid decoration
surfaces together, and a second or thereafter additional lighting
device.
21. The modular display system of claim 1(vi) wherein said lighting
device and/or additional lighting device(s) can produce said light
by an electrical powered lighting device or a chemical lighting
device.
22. The modular display system of claim 21 wherein said electrical
powered lighting device is composed of one or more LED lights.
23. The modular display system of claim 22 wherein said electrical
powered lighting device is controlled by a lighting control
module.
24. The modular display system of claim 23 wherein there can be one
or more said electrical powered lighting devices controlled by at
least one said lighting control modules.
25. The modular display system of claim 24 further comprising a
means to distribute electrical power from said lighting control
module to one or more said electrical powered lighting devices.
26. The modular display system of claim 24 wherein there can be one
or more said lighting control modules.
27. The modular display system of claim 26 further comprising an
on/off switch to power all lighting or a portion thereof.
28. The modular display system of claim 27 wherein said lighting
control modules can either be powered from wall current or have a
battery pack that can be mounted and provides power to lighting
control modules without the need for wall power.
29. The modular display system of claim 28 wherein said lighting
control module has one or more control functions including dimming
control, chasing patterns, color changing, and/or any combination
thereof.
30. The modular display system of claim 29 wherein switches control
said one or more control functions.
31. The modular display system of claim 1(vi) further comprising a
device that produces sound.
32. The modular display system of claim 29 further comprising a
proximity sensor system capability of detecting the proximity of
people.
33. The modular display system of claim 1 wherein said rigid
surfaces are composed of any rigid material including wood, metal,
plastic, or glass.
34. The modular display system of claim 1 wherein said rigid
surfaces are planar and/or curved.
35. The modular display system of claim 1 further comprising a
means to attach said lighting device to said rigid surfaces.
36. The modular display system of claim 35 wherein said means is
one or more of Velcro, adhesive, tape, brackets, slots, screw
heads, rivets, magnets, snaps, and/or clamps.
37. The modular display system of claim 1 wherein a single molded
piece forms the at least two said rigid surfaces attached together
to form said first, second, or thereafter display module(s).
38. The modular display system of claim 1(ii) wherein a storage
container system is attached to said rigid surfaces.
39. The modular display system of claim 1(vii) wherein said first,
second, and thereafter additional frames are made of wire or
nonmetal material(s).
40. The modular display system of claim 1(vii) further comprising
of one rigid surface containing at least one internal housing or
bracket device securing at least one removeably attached lighting
device.
41. The modular display system of claim 40 wherein said one rigid
surface has a designated top surface and a designated bottom
surface, and said at least one lighting device is attached to said
bottom surface.
42. The modular display system of claim 41 wherein said bottom
surface retains said internal housing or said bracket device and
faces downward.
43. The modular display system of claim 40 wherein said at least
one lighting device which is removeably attached to said internal
housing or said bracket also faces downward to project light
downwards.
44. The modular display system of claim 40 wherein said lighting
device has at least one LED light.
45. The modular display system of claim 40 wherein said one rigid
surface is attached to or placed upon and/or above at least one
frame.
46. A method for setting up a display system comprising of at least
one of the following steps: a) preplanning an overall display based
on an event and a venue; b) securing equipment from the venue, said
equipment comprising one or more of the following; banquet
table(s), chef table(s), dishes, serving utensils, and/or
electrical power for space; c) bringing display modules, having
lighting means, and/or glass to the event; d) arranging the tables
to form the display; e) assembling the display modules in place to
form shelves; f) placing glass on the shelves; g) turning on the
lighting; h) putting display items on the glass.
47. The method of claim 46 further comprising a step of spreading
out a tablecloth on at least one of the tables prior to step e of
claim 46.
48. The method of claim 46 wherein the glass is a frosted
glass.
49. The method of claim 46 wherein the items are food.
50. The method of claim 46 further comprising breaking down the
display system comprising the steps of: a) removing any remaining
items from the glass or rigid surface; b) turning off the
electricity to the module and/or lighting; c) taking the glass
overlays if any off the shelves; d) disassembling the display
modules; e) removing and/or transporting the display modules and
the glass; f) putting away the tables; and g) returning any
equipment required to be returned.
51. A method for patron use of a display system comprising the
following step: a) patron approaching a modular display system and
selecting an item and/or items from one or more steps (rigid
surfaces and/or glass overlays) of a display module upon which
items are presented.
52. The method of claim 51 comprising the additional step of: a)
the display system sensing proximity and triggering sounds and/or
lighting control functions.
53. A method for staff use of a display system comprising the
following steps: a) assembling a modular display system; b) placing
items for display on one or more display surfaces of the modular
display system (in an aesthetically pleasing manner); c) preparing
and/or storing food for replenishing: and d) replenishing areas
where items are removed by patrons
Description
CLAIM OF PRIORITY
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Utility
Patent No. 61/841,572 filed on Jul. 1, 2013, which is incorporated
herein by reference for all purposes.
FIELD OF INVENTION
[0002] The present embodiment of the invention is in the field of
catering and food presentation. Further, the present embodiment of
the invention relates to a portable series of variably-sized,
variably-functioned modules that can be quickly assembled, used,
and broken down on site. More particularly, this invention can have
at least one rigid surface with lighting and a current embodiment
has three step lighted modules of different lengths, four step
lighted modules of different lengths, decorative lighted display
modules, jumbo lighted display modules capable of holding solids or
liquids upon which foods can be placed and displayed, and jumbo
lighted display modules capable of heating or cooking or displaying
food prior to display and removal by patrons. The invention is not
limited to food, and can be used for displaying various products
and items in a variety of fields.
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
[0003] There are numerous systems for catering, display of food,
and food preparation. Food can be displayed and prepared in the
same location, displayed in one location and prepared in another,
or partially prepared in one location with final preparation and
display in another. Food can be displayed on piles of ice, and hot
food can be prepared on grills. Often the method of display is
simply utilitarian, with little concern for the esthetics of the
final presentation to the consumer. As people grow more conscious
of food and the demand for high quality gourmet food rises, so too
increases the demand for beautiful presentation systems
commensurate with the quality of the food being served.
[0004] The present invention and method for its use is an
illuminated display and preparation system that takes advantage of
the unique esthetically pleasing appearance of lights illuminating
frosted glass, plastic, or other materials upon which food can be
displayed. The food can be displayed on a one step (rigid surface),
two step, three step, four step, etc. of lighted modules, all of
which are available in a variety of widths. Such steps can be
assembled in many different ways, with decorative lighted display
modules that can hold flowers or other items and accessories that
can enhance the overall appearance of the display and the food
contained on or within such display. Also part of the system is a
jumbo lighted display module that is capable of holding ice and
food placed upon such ice and is capable of holding or containing a
hibachi heating device for cooking foods prior to display. The
invention is not limited to food, and can be used for displaying
various products and items in a variety of fields. The present
invention is easy and cost efficient to manufacture. The present
invention is a new, easy, and customizable way to elegantly display
items.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[0005] The present invention is a modular display system that can
be used for, but is not limited to, the displaying of food. There
are a multitude of display modules, and they can be combined to
adapt to the display requirements of the venue. There are also
decorative modules to enhance the display of food.
[0006] The present invention may be comprised of at least one
module or panel that has at least four rigid surfaces which can be
removably attached together to form a step-like structure in a
gradually upward and setback stepwise fashion. If two or more
modules or panels are used, at least one of the rigid surfaces of
the second or additional display module(s) may extend over the
first display module to form a canopy, which may partially overhang
the first or previously positioned display module oriented below or
underneath it. In addition there may be a lighting device secured
to the canopy to illuminate what is below.
[0007] The modular display system can be made of wire, and/or a
wire or other material structure or frame and may contain at least
one rigid surface. Furthermore, the modular display system may have
one or more surfaces either made of a frosted material, having a
frosted material mounted to, or having a frosted material placed
thereon, to purposefully scatter and reflect light to enhance what
is being displayed.
[0008] The back of at least one of the display modules may have an
opening on at least one side exposing it to the ambient. All
frosted materials referenced can be made of glass or plastic, and
can be colored and/or tinted and/or translucent and/or clear. The
depth of the display modules can in some instances be no greater
than 30 inches deep.
[0009] The modular display system can further comprise, and/or
utilize, and/or accommodate, at least one chef table and at least
one banquet table. However the invention may not utilize chef
table(s) in excess of 18 inches deep and banquet table(s) in excess
of 30 inches deep. The chef table and banquet tables can be 4
and/or 6 and/or 8 feet wide.
[0010] In addition the present invention may be constructed so as
to also comprise of a tray capable of for holding liquids and/or
solids, and there can be an additional lighting device. The tray
may be made form acrylic material. There can also be one or more
clear or frosted decorative display panels attached or placed upon
and/or above the tray and/or one of the four rigid surfaces in at
least one of the display module(s) or panel(s). In this embodiment,
the present invention may also comprise of a device for draining
water. This device may be attached to the tray and consist of at
least one hole, a flange, and/or a tube. The decorative display
panels can be one of the following: glass, plastic, frosted, clear,
and/or translucent, and they can be rectangular, planar, curved
and/or or other shapes. The decorative display panels can be joined
and/or assembled together using brackets and/or angled brackets
and/or Velcro and/or adhesive.
[0011] An additional feature that one embodiment of the present
invention may further comprise of is a warming, heating, or cooking
device. This device may be incorporated into this display module,
and there may also be an additional lighting device.
[0012] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the
invention may integrate a first display module having at least four
rigid surfaces attached together to form a step-like structure and
a front facade and light support to form a canopy partially
overhanging a first or previously positioned display module, and
there can be a lighting device secured to the canopy.
[0013] Additionally, there can be one or more clear or frosted
decorative display panels being attached or placed upon and/or
above one of the four rigid surfaces in the display module. These
decorative display panels can be one of the following: glass,
plastic, frosted, clear, and/or translucent, and can be
rectangular, planar, curved and/or or other shapes. The decorative
display panels can be joined and/or assembled together using
brackets and/or angled brackets and/or Velcro and/or adhesive. The
back of at least one of the display modules can have an opening on
at least one side exposing it to the ambient.
[0014] The present invention can also comprise of a decoration
display module comprising at least three rigid decoration surfaces,
a means of joining rigid decoration surfaces together, and a
lighting device, and this lighting device can be similar to said
lighting devices used in the food display modules.
[0015] The lighting device and/or additional lighting devices may
produce light by an electrical powered lighting device or a
chemical lighting device. The electrical powered lighting device
may be composed of one or more LED lights. The electrical powered
lighting device can be controlled by a lighting control module.
There can be one or more electrically powered lighting devices
controlled by at least one lighting control module. There can be a
means to distribute electrical power from the lighting control
module to one or more electrically powered lighting devices. There
can also be one or more lighting control modules. There can be an
on/off switch to power all lighting or a portion thereof. The
lighting control modules can either be powered from wall current or
have a battery pack that can be mounted which provides power to
lighting control modules without the need for wall power. The
lighting control module can have one or more control functions
including dimming control, chasing patterns, color changing, and/or
any combination thereof. Manual switches and/or proximity sensors
may also be integrated to engage and disengage one or more control
functions. There can also be a device that produces sound.
[0016] In this invention, all rigid surfaces can be composed of any
rigid material including wood, metal, plastic, or glass. Rigid
surfaces can be planar and/or curved. All lighting devices can be
attached to all rigid surfaces using any of the following: Velcro,
adhesive, tape, brackets, slots, screw heads, rivets, magnets,
snaps, and/or clamps.
[0017] In this invention, a single molded piece could be used to
form at least one of the rigid surfaces that are attached together
to form any and/or all of the display modules. A single molded
piece can also be used for the three or more rigid surfaces forming
a tray support base upon which tray support plate can be mounted
and/or placed. An embodiment of the present invention may also
comprise of one or more storage container systems attached to any
rigid surfaces.
[0018] The present invention may additionally comprise of a first
display module having at least one rigid surface attached to a
first frame to form a step-like structure, and at least one
additional display module also having at least one rigid surface
attached to at least one additional frame to form a second and/or
additional step-like structure which may attached to or placed upon
and/or above the first and/or previously positioned display module
in a gradually upward and setback stepwise fashion. At least one
rigid surface of the second and/or thereafter additional display
module may extend over at least a portion of the first or
previously positioned display module to form a canopy that may
partially overhang the first or previously positioned display
module. The invention may also integrate a lighting device that may
be secured to the canopy to illuminate what is being displayed. The
modular display system can be made of wire, and/or a wire or other
material structure or frame and at least one rigid surface. The
first, second, and/or thereafter additional frame(s) can be made of
non-metal and/or can have one or more surfaces either made of a
frosted material, having a frosted material mounted to, or having a
frosted material placed thereon, and this frosted material scatters
light to enhance what is being displayed.
[0019] An embodiment of the present invention may also comprise of
one rigid surface containing at least one internal housing or
bracket device securing a removeably attached lighting device. This
rigid surface can have a designated top surface and a designated
bottom surface, and a lighting device can be attached to bottom
surface. The bottom surface can retain an internal housing or
bracket device and faces downward, and the lighting device can be
removeably attached to the internal housing or bracket, and also
faces downward to project light downward. The lighting device can
have at least one LED light. There can be a rigid surface attached
to or placed upon and/or above a frame. The modular display system
may also include bottom rigid surface(s) on the bottom of the
module display(s) and/or panel(s).
[0020] Furthermore, in at least one embodiment of the present
invention, the modular display system can have an opening on at
least one side to the ambient of the back of at least one of the
said display modules. The modular display system may also utilize
frosted material as or on the surface of the displays, which may be
made of at least one of glass, plastic, and be colored, tinted,
translucent, and/or clear.
[0021] The present invention also comprises of a method of use for
setting-up the display system and breaking-down the display system.
The present invention also comprises of a method of use for patron
use and for staff use of the display system.
[0022] A modular display system may comprising of at least one of
the following seven combinations: (i) a first display module having
at least one wire, and/or a wire or other material structure or
frame and/or at least one flat rigid surface; a second or
thereafter additional display module having at least one wire,
and/or a wire or other material structure or frame and at least one
flat rigid surface; said second or thereafter additional display
module being removably attached to or placed upon and/or above the
first or previously positioned display module in a gradually upward
and setback stepwise fashion; at least one rigid surface of said
second or thereafter additional display module extending over said
first or previously positioned display module to form a canopy
partially overhanging said first or previously positioned display
module; and a lighting device secured to said canopy; (ii) a first
display module having at least four rigid surfaces attached
together to form a step-like structure; a second and/or thereafter
additional display module(s) also having at least four rigid
surfaces attached together to form a second step-like structure;
said second and/or thereafter additional display module(s) being
attached to or placed upon and/or above the first or previously
positioned display module in a gradually upward and setback
stepwise fashion; at least one rigid surface of said second and/or
thereafter additional display module extending over said first or
previously positioned display module to form a canopy partially
overhanging said first or previously positioned display module; and
a lighting device secured to said canopy; (iii) a first display
module having at least four rigid surfaces attached together to
form a step-like structure with a second and/or thereafter
additional display module also having at least four rigid surfaces
attached together to form a second or thereafter additional
step-like structure; a lighting device secured to said canopy; a
tray capable of for holding liquids and/or solids; an additional
lighting device; and one or more clear or frosted decorative
display panels being attached or placed upon and/or above said tray
and/or said one of four rigid surfaces in said second and/or
thereafter additional display module; (iv) a first display module
having at least four rigid surfaces attached together to form a
step-like structure and a second and/or thereafter additional
display module also having at least four rigid surfaces attached
together to form a second step-like structure; one of said four
rigid surfaces in any of said display module(s) has a hole and/or
area of material removed; at least one rigid surface of said second
and/or thereafter additional display module(s) extends over said
first or previously positioned display module to form a canopy
partially overhanging said first or previously positioned second
and/or thereafter additional display module; a lighting device
secured to said canopy; a warming, heating, or cooking device; an
additional lighting device; and one or more clear or frosted
decorative display panels being attached or placed upon and/or
above said one of four rigid surface in said second and/or
thereafter additional display module(s); (v) a first display module
having at least four rigid surfaces attached together to form a
step-like structure; a second and/or thereafter additional display
module also having at least four rigid surfaces attached together
to form a second and/or thereafter additional step-like structure;
at least one rigid surface of said second or thereafter additional
display module(s) extend over said first or previously positioned
display module(s) to form a canopy partially overhanging said first
and/or previously positioned display module(s); a lighting device
secured to said canopy; an additional lighting device; and one or
more clear or frosted decorative display panels being attached or
placed upon and/or above said one of four rigid surfaces in said
second and/or thereafter additional display module(s); (vi) a first
display module having at least four rigid surfaces attached
together to form a step-like structure; a front facade and light
support to form a canopy partially overhanging said first display
module; a lighting device secured to said canopy; an additional
lighting device; and one or more clear or frosted decorative
display panels being attached or placed upon and/or above said one
of four rigid surfaces in said first display module; and/or (vii) a
first display module having at least one rigid surface attached to
a first frame to form a step-like structure; a second or thereafter
additional display module also having at least one rigid surface
attached to a second or thereafter additional frame to form a
second and/or thereafter additional step-like structure; said
second or thereafter additional display module being attached to or
placed upon and/or above the first and/or previously positioned
display module in a gradually upward and setback stepwise fashion;
at least one rigid surface of said second or thereafter additional
display module extending over said first or previously positioned
display module to form a canopy partially overhanging said first
and/or previously positioned display module; and a lighting device
secured to said canopy.
[0023] At least one of said first display module or second or
thereafter additional display module(s) may have a surface either
made of a frosted material, may have a frosted material and/or
surface mounted thereon, or may have a frosted material and/or
surface placed thereon. Said frosted material and/or surface may be
at least one of glass, plastic, colored, tinted, translucent,
and/or clear. Said first display module may include at least one
additional bottom rigid surface on the bottom thereof. The back of
at least one of the said display modules may have an opening on at
least one side to the ambient. The depth of all of said display
modules may be no greater than 30 inches deep each. At least one
rigid surface from each display module may be on top of said wire
or other material structure or frame. The thereafter additional
modules may continue to be removeably attached to previously
positioned modules so as to allow an unlimited quantity of modules
to be placed and removeably attached to one another. At least one
of said first and/or second or thereafter additional display
module(s) may be made of wire, and/or a wire or other material
structure or frame and at least one rigid surface. Said first
display module may include a fifth rigid surface on the bottom
thereof. The modular display system may further comprise at least
one chef table and at least one banquet table, said chef table may
be 18 inches deep and said banquet table may be 30 inches deep.
Said at least one chef table and/or said at least one banquet table
can be 4 and/or 6 and/or 8 feet wide. Said second display module
may be made of wire, and/or a wire or other material structure or
frame and at least one rigid surface instead of four rigid
surfaces. Said tray can be made of acrylic or other material. A
single molded piece can be used for the three or more rigid
surfaces forming a tray support base upon which tray support plate
can be mounted and/or placed. The modular display system may
further comprise a device for draining water, said device may be
attached to said tray and may consist of at least one of a hole, a
flange, and/or a tube. The decorative display panels can be
constructed of one of the following materials: glass, plastic,
frosted, clear, and/or translucent. Said decorative display panels
can be rectangular, planar, curved and/or or other shapes. Said
decorative display panels can be joined and/or assembled together
using brackets and/or angled brackets and/or Velcro and/or
adhesive. The modular display system may further comprise a
decoration display module comprising at least three rigid
decoration surfaces, a means of joining said rigid decoration
surfaces together, and a second or thereafter additional lighting
device. Said lighting device and/or additional lighting device(s)
can produce said light by an electrical powered lighting device or
a chemical lighting device. Said electrical powered lighting device
may be composed of one or more LED lights. Said electrical powered
lighting device may be controlled by a lighting control module.
There can be one or more said electrical powered lighting devices
controlled by at least one said lighting control modules. The
modular display system may further comprise a means to distribute
electrical power from said lighting control module to one or more
said electrical powered lighting devices. There can be one or more
said lighting control modules. The modular display system may
further comprise an on/off switch to power all lighting or a
portion thereof. Said lighting control modules can either be
powered from wall current or have a battery pack that can be
mounted and provides power to lighting control modules without the
need for wall power. Said lighting control module may have one or
more control functions including dimming control, chasing patterns,
color changing, and/or any combination thereof. Switches may
control said one or more control functions. The modular display
system may further comprise a device that produces sound. The
modular display system may further comprise a proximity sensor
system capability of detecting the proximity of people. Said rigid
surfaces may be composed of any rigid material including wood,
metal, plastic, or glass. Said rigid surfaces may be planar and/or
curved. The modular display system may further comprise a means to
attach said lighting device to said rigid surfaces. Said means may
be one or more of Velcro, adhesive, tape, brackets, slots, screw
heads, rivets, magnets, snaps, and/or clamps. A single molded piece
may form the at least two said rigid surfaces attached together to
form said first, second, or thereafter display module(s). A storage
container system may be attached to said rigid surfaces. Said
first, second, and thereafter additional frames may be made of wire
or nonmetal material(s). The modular display system may further
comprise of one rigid surface containing at least one internal
housing or bracket device securing at least one removeably attached
lighting device. Said one rigid surface may have a designated top
surface and a designated bottom surface, and said at least one
lighting device may be attached to said bottom surface. Said bottom
surface may retain said internal housing or said bracket device and
face downward. Said at least one lighting device which may be
removeably attached to said internal housing or said bracket also
may face downward to project light downwards. Said lighting device
may have at least one LED light. Said one rigid surface may be
attached to or placed upon and/or above at least one frame.
[0024] A method for setting up a display system may comprise of at
least one of the following steps: (a) preplanning an overall
display based on an event and a venue; (b) securing equipment from
the venue, said equipment comprising one or more of the following;
banquet table(s), chef table(s), dishes, serving utensils, and/or
electrical power for space; (c) bringing display modules, having
lighting means, and/or glass to the event; (d) arranging the tables
to form the display; (e) assembling the display modules in place to
form shelves; (f) placing glass on the shelves; (g) turning on the
lighting; and/or (h) putting display items on the glass. The method
may further comprise a step of spreading out a tablecloth on at
least one of the tables prior to assembling the display modules in
place to form shelves. The glass may be a frosted glass. The items
may be food. The method may further comprise breaking down the
display system which may comprise the steps of: (a) removing any
remaining items from the glass or rigid surface; (b) turning off
the electricity to the module and/or lighting; (c) taking the glass
overlays if any off the shelves; (d) disassembling the display
modules; (e) removing and/or transporting the display modules and
the glass; (f) putting away the tables; and (g) returning any
equipment required to be returned.
[0025] A method for patron use of a display system may comprise the
following step: (a) patron approaching a modular display system and
selecting an item and/or items from one or more steps (rigid
surfaces and/or glass overlays) of a display module upon which
items are presented. The method for patron use of a display system
may comprise the additional step of displaying system sensing
proximity and triggering sounds and/or lighting control
functions.
[0026] A method for staff use of a display system may comprise the
following steps: (a) assembling a modular display system; (b)
placing items for display on one or more display surfaces of the
modular display system (in an aesthetically pleasing manner); (c)
preparing and/or storing food for replenishing: and (d)
replenishing areas where items are removed by patrons
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0027] FIG. 1 shows a jumbo display unit, a three step unit, a four
step unit, and a decorative display module, with ice and food being
displayed.
[0028] FIG. 2 shows seven different modules assembled on three
banquet tables with table cloths.
[0029] FIG. 3 shows a dramatic display of a lighted system in a
venue.
[0030] FIG. 4 shows a curved jumbo display unit with lighting.
[0031] FIG. 5 shows three and four step display units.
[0032] FIG. 6 depicts a decorative display module.
[0033] FIG. 7 depicts a side view of a three step unit.
[0034] FIG. 8 depicts a side view of a four step unit.
[0035] FIG. 9 depicts a banquet table and a chef table.
[0036] FIG. 10 is a photograph of many units from behind and above
an event.
[0037] FIG. 11 depicts a side view of a jumbo cold display
module.
[0038] FIG. 12 depicts an expanded diagram of the parts of a jumbo
cold display module.
[0039] FIG. 13 depicts a side view of a jumbo warm or generic
display module.
[0040] FIG. 14 depicts an expanded diagram of the parts of a jumbo
warm or generic display module.
[0041] FIGS. 15A and 15B, depict a method for joining some of the
rigid surfaces described in the invention with FIG. 15A depicting
the rigid surfaces prior to being joined together, and FIG. 15B
depicting the rigid surfaces after being joined together.
[0042] FIGS. 16A and 16B depict an additional method for joining
some of the rigid surfaces described in the invention with FIG. 16A
depicting the rigid surfaces prior to being joined together, and
FIG. 16B depicting the rigid surfaces after being joined
together.
[0043] FIG. 17 depicts an expanded diagram of the parts of a three
step unit.
[0044] FIG. 18 depicts an embodiment of a side view of a decorative
display module
[0045] FIG. 19 depicts an expanded view of an embodiment of a
decorative display module.
KEY COMPONENT LIST
[0046] A modular display system
[0047] A rigid surface
[0048] A lighting device
[0049] A frosted clear or translucent surface
[0050] Electrical powered lighting devices
[0051] Lighting control module
[0052] Three step unit
[0053] Four step unit
[0054] A jumbo cold display unit
[0055] Tray for holding solid or liquid material
[0056] Drain
[0057] A jumbo warm display unit
[0058] A jumbo generic display unit
[0059] Decorative display module
[0060] Bottle holder
[0061] Front facade
[0062] An additional lighting device
[0063] Decoration display module
[0064] Decorative display panels
[0065] A device for draining water
[0066] Velcro and/or adhesive
[0067] Brackets
[0068] Angled brackets
[0069] Chemical lighting device
[0070] Lighting control module
[0071] Means to distribute electrical power
[0072] On/off switch
[0073] Battery pack
[0074] A device that produces sound
[0075] A proximity sensor system
[0076] A means to attach said lighting device to said rigid
surfaces
[0077] A single molded piece
[0078] A storage container system
DETAILED DESCRIPTIONS OF DRAWINGS
[0079] FIG. 1 shows a jumbo display unit with ice and food being
displayed. To the left of the jumbo display unit is a three step
unit. To the right of the jumbo display unit is a three step unit,
followed by a four step unit. Behind the three step units are shown
a number of decorative display modules. Additionally, FIG. 1 shows
the lighting and the frosted clear or translucent surface upon
which the food is displayed.
[0080] FIG. 2 shows seven different modules assembled on top of
three banquet tables. Starting from the left, the following units
are displayed: (1) a three step unit, (2) a four step unit, (3) a
three step unit, (4) a jumbo display unit, (5) a three step unit,
(6) a four stem unit, and (7) a three step unit.
[0081] FIG. 3 shows a dramatic display of a lighted system, which
includes illumination of the frosted clear or translucent surfaces
on the various modules, in a venue.
[0082] FIG. 4 shows a curved jumbo display unit with lighting.
[0083] FIG. 5 shows a number of different modules. Starting from
the left, the following units are shown: (1) a three step unit, (2)
a four stem unit, (3) a three step unit, (4) a four stem unit, and
(5) a three step unit. Additionally, FIG. 5 shows the source of
lighting and illumination of the frosted clear or translucent
surfaces.
[0084] FIG. 6 depicts a decorative display module 60. Contained
within the decorative display module 60 is a lighting device 61, in
this case an LED lighting device, with power being fed to the
lighting device 61 from a cable 62.
[0085] FIG. 7 depicts a side view of an assembled three step unit,
and FIG. 17 depicts an expanded diagram of the parts of a three
step unit. The first display module is composed of four rigid
surfaces, 1, 3, 4, and 5, where rigid surface 3 faces forward, and
rigid surfaces 4 and 5 are on their sides. Upon these three rigid
surfaces 3, 4, and 5 is placed rigid surface 1. On rigid surface 1
is placed or mounted a frosted material 2, which can be glass or
plastic. Placed or mounted on rigid surface 1 is a second display
module composed of four rigid surfaces 6, 7, 8, and 9, where rigid
surfaces 7, 8, and 9 are mounted or placed upon rigid surface 1.
Rigid surface 6 is mounted or placed upon rigid surfaces 7, 8, and
9, forming a step, and rigid surface 6 overlaps rigid surface 7 to
form an overhang or canopy. Mounted or attached to rigid surface 6
and mounted under the canopy is a lighting device 10, in this case
an LED lighting device, with power being fed from cable 10a.
Lighting device 10 illuminates a frosted material 2. On rigid
surface 6 is a frosted material 12, which can be glass or plastic.
Placed or mounted on rigid surface 6 is a third display module
composed of four rigid surfaces 11, 13, 14, and 15, where rigid
surfaces 13, 14, and 15 are mounted or placed upon rigid surface 6.
Rigid surface 11 is mounted or placed upon 13, 14, and 15, forming
a step, and rigid surface 11 overlaps rigid surface 13 to form an
overhang or canopy. Mounted or attached to rigid surface 11 and
mounted under the canopy is a lighting device 16, in this case an
LED lighting device, with power being fed from cable 16a. Lighting
device 16 illuminates a frosted material 12.
[0086] FIG. 8 depicts a side view of a four step unit that contains
the same components as in the three step unit of FIGS. 7 and 17 and
additionally includes the following: On rigid surface 11 is a
frosted material 18, which can be glass or plastic. Placed or
mounted on rigid surface 11 is a fourth display module composed of
four rigid surfaces 17, 19, 20, and 21, where rigid surfaces 13,
14, and 15 are mounted or placed upon rigid surface 6. Rigid
surface 17 is mounted or placed upon 19, 20, and 21, forming a
step, and rigid surface 17 overlaps rigid surface 19 to form an
overhang or canopy. Mounted or attached to rigid surface 17 and
mounted under the canopy is a lighting device 22, in this case an
LED lighting device, with power being feed not shown. Lighting
device 22 illuminates a frosted material 18.
[0087] FIG. 9 depicts a banquet table 50 and a chef table 51. The
depth of banquet table 50A is 30 inches. The depth of the chef
table 51A is 18 inches. The width of both chef table and banquet
table 52 can be 4 feet, 6 feet or 8 feet, but is not limited to
these dimensions.
[0088] FIG. 10 is a photograph of many units from behind and above
an event.
[0089] FIG. 11 depicts a side view of a jumbo cold display module,
and FIG. 12 depicts an expanded diagram of the parts of a jumbo
display module. A first display module is composed of four rigid
surfaces, 34, 35, 36, and 37, where rigid surface 36 faces forward,
and rigid surfaces 34 and 35 are on the sides. Upon these three
rigid surfaces 34, 35, and 36 is placed rigid surface 37. On rigid
surface 37 is placed or mounted a frosted material 38, which can be
glass or plastic. Placed or mounted on rigid surface 37 is a second
display module composed of four rigid surfaces 39, 40, 41 and 42,
where rigid surfaces 39, 40, and 41 are mounted or placed upon
rigid surface 37. Rigid surface 42 is mounted or placed upon rigid
surfaces 39, 40, and 41, forming a step, and rigid surface 42
overlaps rigid surface 41 to form an overhang or canopy. Mounted or
attached to rigid surface 42 and mounted under the canopy is a
lighting device 44, in this case an LED lighting device, with power
being fed from cable 44a. Lighting device 44 illuminates a frosted
material 38. Rigid surface 42 contains a hole or slot within which
tray 45 fits. At the bottom of tray 45 is a hole 51, and connected
to this hole is a tube 52 for drainage. Mounted upon rigid surface
42 are rigid surfaces 46, 47, 48, and 49, and these can be made
from glass or plastic, and can be any or all of the following:
frosted, clear, translucent, tinted, and/or colored. Also shown is
decorative shape 50, which can be added as deemed necessary. Inside
and within the structure bounded by rigid surfaces 46, 47, 48, and
49 is lighting device 43, in this case an LED lighting device, with
power being fed from cable 43a, and this lighting device can be
mounted vertically, horizontally, or at any other angle as deemed
necessary to optimally illuminate the items on display, which is
not limited to food.
[0090] FIG. 13 depicts a side view of a jumbo warm or generic
display module, and FIG. 14 depicts an expanded diagram of the
parts of such jumbo warm or generic display module. A first display
module is composed of four rigid surfaces, 100, 101, 102, and 103,
where rigid surface 102 faces forward, and rigid surfaces 100 and
101 are on the sides. Upon these three rigid surfaces 100, 101, and
102 is placed rigid surface 103. On rigid surface 103 is placed or
mounted a frosted material 104, which can be glass or plastic.
Placed or mounted on rigid surface 103 is a second display module
composed of four rigid surfaces 105, 106, 107 and 108, where rigid
surfaces 105, 106, and 107 are mounted or placed upon rigid surface
103. Rigid surface 108 is mounted or placed upon rigid surfaces
105, 106, and 107, forming a step, and rigid surface 108 overlaps
rigid surface 107 to form an overhang or canopy. Mounted or
attached to rigid surface 108 and mounted under the canopy is a
lighting device 109, in this case an LED lighting device, with
power being fed from cable 109a. Lighting device 109 illuminates a
frosted material 104. Mounted upon rigid surface 108 are rigid
surfaces 111, 112, 113, and 114, and these can be made from glass
or plastic, and can be any or all of the following: frosted, clear,
translucent, tinted, and/or colored. Inside and within the
structure bounded by rigid surfaces 111, 112, 113, and 114 is
lighting device 110, in this case an LED lighting device, with
power being fed from cable 110a, and this lighting device can be
mounted vertically, horizontally, or at any other angle as deemed
necessary to optimally illuminate the items on display, which is
not limited to food. Also, placed upon rigid surface 108 can be a
heating device if necessary.
[0091] FIGS. 15A and 15B, depict a method for joining some of the
rigid surfaces described in the invention with FIG. 15A depicting
the rigid surfaces prior to being joined together, and FIG. 15B
depicting the rigid surfaces after being joined together. FIG. 15A
shows rigid surface 72 prior to attachment to rigid surface 73.
Affixed to rigid surface 72 is Velcro strip 70. Affixed to rigid
surface 73 is Velcro strip 71. The Velcro strips 70, 71 can be
mated. FIG. 15B shows rigid surface 72 and 73 after attachment.
[0092] FIGS. 16A and 16B depict an additional method for joining
some of the rigid surfaces described in the invention with FIG. 16A
depicting the rigid surfaces prior to being joined together, and
FIG. 16B depicting the rigid surfaces after being joined together.
FIG. 16A depicts rigid surface 80 prior to attachment to rigid
surface 82 via bracket 84. Affixed to rigid surface 80 is Velcro
strip 81. Affixed to rigid surface 82 is Velcro strip 83. Affixed
to bracket 84 is Velcro strips 85, 86. The Velcro strips 81, 83,
85, 86 can be mated as shown after attachment in FIG. 16B.
[0093] FIG. 17 depicts an expanded diagram of the parts of an
embodiment of a three step display unit. A first display module is
composed of three rigid surfaces, 4, 5, and 3, where rigid surface
3 faces forward, and rigid surfaces 4 and 5 are on the sides. Upon
these three rigid surfaces 3, 4, and 5 is placed rigid surface 1.
On rigid surface 1 is placed or mounted a frosted material 2, which
can be glass or plastic. Placed or mounted on rigid surface 1 is a
second display module composed of three rigid surfaces 7, 8, and 9.
Rigid surface 6 is mounted or placed upon rigid surfaces 7, 8, and
9, forming a step, and rigid surface 6 overlaps rigid surface 7 to
form an overhang or canopy. Mounted or attached to rigid surface 6
and mounted under the canopy is a lighting device 10, in this case
an LED lighting device, with power being fed from cable 10a.
Lighting device 10 illuminates a frosted material 2. On rigid
surface 6 is placed or mounted a frosted material 12, which can be
glass or plastic. Placed or mounted on rigid surface 6 is a third
display module composed of three rigid surfaces 13, 14, and 15,
where rigid surface 13 faces forward, and rigid surfaces 14 and 15
are on the sides. Upon these three rigid surfaces 13, 14, and 15 is
placed rigid surface 11 forming a step, and rigid surface 11
overlaps rigid surface 13 to form an overhang or canopy. Mounted or
attached to rigid surface 11 and mounted under the canopy is a
lighting device 16, in this case an LED lighting device, with power
being fed from cable 16a. Lighting device 16 illuminates a frosted
material 12.
[0094] FIG. 18 depicts a side view of another embodiment of a one
step display unit, and FIG. 19 depicts an expanded view of this
embodiment of a one step display unit. A first display module is
composed of three rigid surfaces, 130, 131, and 132, where rigid
surface 132 faces forward, and rigid surfaces 130 and 131 are on
the sides. Upon these three rigid surfaces 130, 131, and 132 is
placed rigid surface 133. On rigid surface 133 is placed or mounted
a frosted material 134, which can be glass or plastic. Placed or
mounted on rigid surface 133 is a second display module composed of
four rigid surfaces 137, 138, 139, and 140, where rigid surface 137
faces forward, rigid surface 140 faces the back, and rigid surfaces
138 and 139 are on the sides. Rigid surfaces 137, 138, 139, and 140
can be made from glass or plastic, and can be any or all of the
following: frosted, clear, translucent, tinted, and/or colored or
opaque. Inside and within the structure bounded by rigid surfaces
137, 138, 139, and 140 is lighting device 141, in this case an LED
lighting device, with power being fed from cable 141a, and this
lighting device can be mounted vertically, horizontally, or at any
other angle as deemed necessary to optimally illuminate the items
on display, which is not limited to food. Bracket 135 is placed
under and secured by rigid surface 137, and this forms a canopy
under which is mounted a lighting device 136, in this case an LED
lighting device, with power being fed from cable 136a. Lighting
device 136 illuminates a frosted material 134.
[0095] While the instant invention has been shown and described in
accordance with preferred and practical embodiments thereof, it is
recognized that departures from the instant disclosure are
contemplated within the spirit and scope of the present invention.
Therefore, the true scope of the invention should not be limited
since other modifications will become apparent to those skilled in
the art upon a study of the claims, drawings, descriptions,
explanations, and specifications herein. It is understood that
various changes and modifications can be made within the spirit and
scope of the present invention.
* * * * *