Self-leveling sign hanger

Abstract

A device for raising and lowering a sign suspended from a ceiling, comprising a reversible motor adapted to be mounted to the ceiling at a first location; a sign carrier for holding a sign to be suspended from the ceiling; and a line running from the motor, to the sign carrier, and back to the ceiling at a second location spaced from the first location. The line is mounted to the ceiling at the second location. The motor is controlled to turn in opposite directions to raise and lower the sign carrier in relation to the ceiling, to allow a sign held by the sign carrier to be positioned relative to the ceiling.

Description

FIELD OF INVENTION [0001] This invention relates to a device for hanging signs from the ceiling. The device is particularly useful in retail stores with high ceilings. BACKGROUND OF INVENTION [0002] Hanging signs from ceilings in retail stores has become more prevalent and more problematic with the increase in the number of warehouse-type stores with high, exposed ceilings. In more traditional store construction, with suspended ceilings, signs can simply be hung from the ceiling by climbing a step ladder, or using relatively short poles, to lift the sign hanger to the ceiling. Signs hung in this manner may use a sign hanger that grips ceiling metallic members magnetically. [0003] In warehouse stores, however, the ceilings may be dozens of feet high, making access very difficult. Signs in these stores are typically hung from the ceiling members using wire or other flexible line that is secured to the ceiling by a person on a tall ladder or a mechanized lift. Such sign installation se...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The invention is a device that allows signs to be easily suspended from store ceilings without the need for ladders, lifts, or hanger installation poles. The device includes a line winding device that is coupled to the ceiling, a sign carrier for holding a sign, a line securing device at a location spaced from the winding device to hold an end of the line at that location, and a flexible line running from the winding device to the carrier and back to the winding device. The line is allowed to run freely through the sign carrier so that the carrier is self-leveling regardless of its distance from the ceiling. The device features a reversible electric motor for raising and lowering the sign carrier in relation to the ceiling, and a fixing means for mounting the line to the ceiling at a second location spaced from the first location. The invention also includes a power-actuated drum system secured to the ceiling with a suspension cord carried by the drum, and attachment means for securing a sign to the carrier."

Problems solved by technology

Hanging signs from ceilings in retail stores has become more prevalent and more problematic with the increase in the number of warehouse-type stores with high, exposed ceilings.

In warehouse stores, however, the ceilings may be dozens of feet high, making access very difficult.

This service can cost hundreds of dollars per sign.

Also, store owners must spend quite a bit of money to hang the signs that are needed in the store.

These signs are usually permanent signs because of the cost and difficulty in changing them.

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