Frame back retainer

Abstract

A frame back retainer for a multi-use frame includes a tab-like structure and a fastening structure. The tab-like structure defines an aperture at a first end and defines a substantially flattened profile at a second end for engaging the multi-use frame. The tab-like structure includes at least one securing arm depending from the tab-like structure. The fastening structure is positioned through the aperture of the tab-like structure and mounted to the multi-use frame. The fastening structure defines a raised pedestal profile from a surface of the multi-use frame. The at least one securing arm engages an outer edge of the fastening structure to rotatably attach the fastening structure to the tab-like structure. In operation, the user rotates the tab-like structure relative to the fastening structure about an axis to engage or disengage the second end of the tab-like structure within the multi-use frame.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This continuation-in-part non-provisional patent application is related to and claims priority from earlier filed U.S. Non-Provisional Pat. Appl. No. 12 / 859,014 filed Aug. 18, 2010, and earlier filed U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 235,036 filed Aug. 19, 2009, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates to multi-use frame hardware and methods of manufacturing the same. In the multi-use frame industry, there are various types of multi-use frame hardware which includes turn buttons for maintaining a frame back inside a multi-use frame with a photo or artwork sandwiched therebetween.[0003]The present invention relates to turn button hardware. Prior art turn buttons are typically tab-like structures that are attached to a multi-use frame back. The tabs are pivotally attached to the back so that they may pivot in place. The free ends of the turn button tabs, when i...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0007]The present invention preserves the advantages of existing frame back retainers while providing new advantages not found in currently available frame back retainers and overcoming many disadvantages of such currently available frame back retainers. The present invention provides a frame back retainer for multi-use frames which provides a repetitive, reliable, and predictable way of securing the frame back to the frame to prevent disengagement of the frame back from the frame. Also, the frame back retainer secures the frame back to the multi-use frame which is convenient and easy to use for a consumer.

[0014]It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a frame back retainer with repetitive, predictable, and simple securing of a frame back to a multi-use frame.

[0016]Another object of the embodiment is to provide a frame back retainer with an angular offset portion offset portion to spring-bias the tab-like structure and allow the graduated ramp portion to frictionally engage the frame kerf without requiring assistance of additional layers of material.

Problems solved by technology

For example, a very secure rivet connection will result in a very tight turn button making it very difficult to turn for the user of the frame.

A loose attachment makes it easier to manipulate the turn button but the connection will also be loose making a poor locking connection and / or making it possible for the turn button to fall off of the multi-use frame back completely.

Sometimes, the turn button may fail to reliably and predictably secure the frame back to the frame for a variety of reasons.

On occasion, the frame back is made of material, such as soft cardboard, lacking sufficient strength to properly retain the turn button therein.

Upon installation, the rivet may be improperly flared allowing the turn button to disengage.

Also, a consumer may not properly place the turn button in the correct position to secure the frame back to the frame.

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