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.

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...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[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.

[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.

Problems solved by technology

However, homes and businesses employ a wide variety of devices, fixtures, and structures that may be inconsistent with a desired decor or style.

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.

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.

Such flat panel display devices have a disadvantage.

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.

Thus, displaying a flat panel display device on a wall decreases the flexibility of use of the wall space.

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.

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