Photo frame

Abstract

Provided is a photo frame that diffuses aroma, enabling easy switching of aroma. A photo frame 103 includes: an elongated paper piece 108 containing an aroma component; a plate material 111 which defines a first plane 107 for receiving a photograph PC on a front face or a rear face thereof and defines a second plane 109 for receiving the paper piece 108 on the rear face; a first holding body 114 which is attached to the plate material 111 and holds the photograph PC following the first plane 107; and a second holding body 115 which is detachably attached to the plate material 111 and holds the paper piece 108 following the second plane 109.

Description

Photo frames

[0001] The present invention relates to a photo frame that includes a plate defining a plane for receiving a photograph, and a holder attached to the plate and adapted to conform to the plane and hold the photograph.

[0002] For example, Patent Documents 1 and 2 disclose structures for associating a scent with a photograph displayed in a photo frame. In Patent Document 1, an air freshener is contained in a container. The container is attached to a window opening drilled in the back panel of the frame. The fragrant components of the air freshener are released through the small openings in the container. In Patent Document 2, a thin sheet of air freshener is inserted into the frame. The air freshener has a thin sheet of air freshener absorbent sandwiched between cardboard. The surface of the cardboard is covered with a PVC film barrier. When replenishing the air freshener, the air freshener is removed from the frame. The air freshener is immersed in a solution of the air freshener.

[0003] Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 3-114413 Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2001-54452 Registered Utility Model No. 3161407

[0004] If different scents could be selected depending on the viewer's mood at any given time, photographs would offer even more enjoyment to the viewer. In Patent Document 1, to change the fragrance, the frame is opened on a hinge. After opening, the container is removed from the backing. The fragrance can be changed by opening and closing the container. This requires a lot of work for such a small pleasure as changing scents. In Patent Document 2, the entire fragrance body (= absorbent material + cardboard + PVC film) is replaced to change scents. The new fragrance body is immersed in a solution of a different fragrance component. This requires a lot of work for such a small pleasure as changing scents.

[0005] To provide a photo frame that diffuses fragrances and allows the fragrance to be easily switched.

[0006] According to one form of the present invention, a photo frame is provided that comprises a long piece of paper containing an aromatic component, a plate that defines a first plane on the front or back for receiving a photograph and a second plane on the back for receiving the piece of paper, a first holder attached to the plate and holding the photograph in line with the first plane, and a second holder that is detachably attached to the plate and holding the piece of paper in line with the second plane.

[0007] When the second holder is removed from the plate, the piece of paper can be separated from the plate as a single piece. Since the piece of paper is itself an absorbent for the fragrance, the fragrance simply soaks into the piece of paper. For example, the fragrance can be simply sprayed onto the piece of paper, like perfume. The fragrance can be replenished in a short time and without any hassle. Furthermore, the fragrance can be easily switched to another fragrance by simply replacing the piece of paper. A different fragrance, like perfume, can simply be sprayed onto a new piece of paper. Moreover, since the photograph and the piece of paper are held separately on the first plane and the second plane, the piece of paper is positioned away from the photograph. Contact between the photograph and the piece of paper can be effectively avoided. The fragrance can be prevented from soaking into the photograph from the piece of paper.

[0008] The plate may be a resin plate that defines the first plane and the second plane on the back surface and has a transparent area that covers at least the photographic image. An observer can observe the photographic image through the transparent area. The plate can protect the photographic image while ensuring the visibility of the image. Here, the first holder can be maintained on the plate when the second holder is removed. The photograph can continue to be held on the plate when the paper piece is replaced. Misalignment of the photograph can be avoided when the paper piece is replaced.

[0009] The second holder may be a slider that is guided by a pair of rails extending linearly parallel to both sides of the second plane and displaces between a first position where it holds the paper piece along the second plane and a second position where it is released from the second plane. Because the rails are disposed on the back surface of the plate, the surface of the plate can be maintained smooth. The visibility of the image can be maintained well. The paper piece can be removed from the plate in response to the displacement of the second holder. Here, the second holder may have an outward surface that is flush with the rails. In this way, the shape of the back surface of the plate can be adjusted.

[0010] The plate may be made of a transparent material, and an opaque film may be formed on the surface of the plate to conceal at least the edges of the photograph. The plate may be molded from a single transparent material. The plate may be molded through a simple process. Inexpensive molding may be achieved. Meanwhile, since the edges of the photograph are hidden by the opaque film, the image may be well highlighted.

[0011] The first holder may be a slider that is guided by a pair of rails extending parallel to both sides of the first plane and displaces between a first position where the photograph is held along the first plane and a second position where the photograph is released from the first plane. Because the rails are disposed on the back surface of the plate, the surface of the plate can be maintained smooth. The image visibility can be maintained excellent. The photograph can be removed from the plate in response to the displacement of the first holder. Here, the first holder may have an outward surface that is flush with the rails. In this way, the shape of the back surface of the plate can be adjusted.

[0012] The plate may define the first plane on the front surface and the second plane on the back surface, the first holder may be placed on the front surface of the plate to sandwich and hold the photograph between the plate and the first holder, and the second holder may be placed on the back surface of the plate to sandwich and hold the piece of paper between the plate and the first holder. The photograph and the piece of paper are physically separated by the plate. Contact between the photograph and the piece of paper can be effectively avoided. Permeation of the aroma components from the piece of paper into the photograph can be prevented. Moreover, the photograph can be kept away from the path of the evaporated aroma components. Transfer of the aroma components from the piece of paper to the photograph can also be effectively prevented.

[0013] The piece of paper may be positioned within the outline of the photograph projected onto the rear surface in a direction perpendicular to the front surface of the plate. Because the piece of paper is positioned behind the photograph, the piece of paper can be hidden by the photograph from the front side even if the first holder and the plate are both formed from a single transparent material. The image of the photograph can be clearly seen.

[0014] The plate may be formed into a rectangular outline. The plate may be sandwiched between walls extending parallel to each other. The photo frame can be combined with other components to function as a photo stand, and can also be attached to other types of items to add the enjoyment of viewing photos to those items.

[0015] As described above, according to the present invention, a photo frame that diffuses fragrances and allows the fragrance to be easily switched can be provided.

[0016] 1 is a perspective view schematically showing a photo stand according to a first embodiment of the present invention. It is a view showing a cross section of a photo frame taken along line 2-2 of FIG. 1. It is a view showing an enlarged partial cross section of a photo frame taken along line 3-3 of FIG. 1. It is an enlarged partial cross section of a photo frame corresponding to FIG. 2. It is a view showing a cross section of a photo frame according to a modified example corresponding to FIG. 2. It is a view showing an enlarged partial cross section of a photo stand according to a modified example corresponding to FIG. 3. It is a view showing an enlarged partial cross section of a photo stand according to another modified example corresponding to FIG. 3. It is a view showing an enlarged partial cross section of a photo stand according to yet another modified example corresponding to FIG. 3. It is (A) a front view and (B) a rear view schematically showing a photo stand according to a second embodiment of the present invention. It is a view showing an enlarged partial cross section of a photo frame taken along line 10-10 of FIG. 9. It is a cross section schematically showing a photo frame according to a third embodiment of the present invention corresponding to FIG. 2. It is a perspective view schematically showing the appearance of a product packaging unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a perspective view schematically showing an inner box housed in a lower outer box. It is a perspective view showing the appearance of an inner box according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a perspective view schematically showing the structure of the inner box when an upper box body is opened. It is an enlarged perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a hinge. It is a vertical cross section taken along line 17-17 of FIG. 15. A vertical cross-sectional view taken along line 18-18 in FIG. 15. A circuit diagram of a light irradiation circuit according to a first specific example. A block diagram showing the general configuration of an audio playback unit. Corresponding to FIG. 18, this is a diagram showing the relationship between a recording switch and a protective body. Corresponding to FIG. 22, which is an enlarged partial vertical cross-sectional view taken along line 22-22 in FIG. 14, this is a diagram showing the general structure of a plate according to a modified example. A circuit diagram of a light irradiation circuit according to a second specific example.

[0017] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0018] FIG. 1 illustrates a photo stand according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The photo stand 101 includes a photo frame 103 that displays a photo PC image through a transparent plate 102 while emitting a fragrance, and an auxiliary member 104 that holds the photo frame 103 in an upright position on a horizontal surface PL. The photo PC can be used with paper photo prints, instant film with white margins around the image, or other media. Here, the auxiliary member 104 includes a flat plate 105 that supports the photo frame 103, and a leg plate 106 that is connected to the lower edge of the flat plate 105 and placed on the horizontal surface PL. The flat plate 105 and the leg plate 106 can be formed, for example, by bending a single metal plate (e.g., stainless steel). Therefore, the leg plate 106 is continuous with the lower end of the flat plate 105 at its front end. The flat plate 105 need only be made of a magnetic material. The front end of the leg plate 106 is located forward of the center of gravity of the flat plate 105 and the photo frame 103, and the rear end of the leg plate 106 is located rearward of the center of gravity of the flat plate 105 and the photo frame 103, so that the leg plate 106 can support the flat plate 105 in an upright position on the horizontal plane PL. Here, the flat plate 105 tilts backward at a specific angle around its lower end.

[0019] As shown in FIG. 2 , the photo frame 103 includes a plate 111 on the back side, which defines a first plane 107 for receiving a photo PC and a second plane 109 for receiving a piece of paper 108. The second plane 109 is positioned without overlapping the first plane 107. The second plane 109 is separated from the first plane 107. The plate 111 may be, for example, entirely transparent. The transparent body may be molded, for example, from a hard acrylic resin. The plate 111 is formed from a material that blocks airflow (a non-breathable material). Here, an opaque film 112 is formed on the surface of the plate 111, covering at least the edges of the photo PC. The opaque film 112 extends all the way to the outer edge of the plate 111, surrounding, for example, a window 113 through which the image on the photo PC is displayed. Therefore, the plate 111 forms a transparent area (transparent plate 102) corresponding to the window 113 and covering at least the image on the photo PC. The viewer can view the image on the photo PC through the transparent area. The opaque film 112 can be made of, for example, a colored paint film.

[0020] The photo frame 103 is equipped with a first holder 114 that is attached to the plate material 111 and holds the photo PC along the first plane 107. The first holder 114 is a slider that is guided by a pair of first rails 116 that extend parallel to both sides of the first plane 107 and that is displaced between a first position where the photo PC is held along the first plane 107 and a second position where the first holder 114 is removed from the first plane 107. Therefore, the first holder 114 is detachably attached to the plate material 111.

[0021] The first rails 116 extend linearly horizontally. A first smooth surface 117 is defined between the first rails 116 on the back surface of the plate material 111. The first rails 116 define a guideway that contacts the first smooth surface 117. In defining the guideway, the first rails 116 form a restricting edge 116a between the first rails 116 and the first smooth surface 117 to receive the first holder 114. The restricting edge 116a allows horizontal movement of the first holder 114 along the guideway while restricting the first holder 114 from separating from the first plane 107 in any manner other than horizontal movement. Here, the first plane 107 is defined by the inner surface of a recess 118 drilled in the first smooth surface 117. The recess 118 is closed by the first holder 114 that overlaps the first smooth surface 117 in the first position, defining a photo room for accommodating a photo PC between the first holder 114 and the first plane 107. The contour of the recess 118 may be matched to the contour of the photograph PC.

[0022] The first holder (slider) 114 is formed as a flat plate that blocks the entire guideway in the first position. The upper edge of the flat plate engages with the restricting edge 116a of the upper first rail 116. The lower edge of the flat plate engages with the restricting edge 116a of the lower first rail 116. The first holder (slider) 114 can be molded from, for example, a hard acrylic resin. The first holder 114 is formed from a material that blocks air (a non-breathable material).

[0023] The photo frame 103 is equipped with a second holder 115 that is attached to the plate 111 and holds the piece of paper 108 along the second flat surface 109. The second holder 115 is a slider that is guided by a pair of second rails 121 that extend parallel to both sides of the second flat surface 109 and displaces between a first position where the second holder 115 holds the piece of paper 108 along the second flat surface 109 and a second position where the second holder 115 is removed from the second flat surface 109. Therefore, the second holder 115 is detachably attached to the plate 111.

[0024] The second rails 121 extend linearly horizontally. A second smooth surface 122 is defined between the second rails 121 on the back surface of the plate material 111. The second rails 121 define a guideway that contacts the second smooth surface 122. In defining the guideway, the second rails 121 form a restricting edge 121a between the second rails 121 and the second smooth surface 122 to receive the second holder 115. The restricting edge 121a allows horizontal movement of the second holder 115 along the guideway while restricting the second holder 115 from separating from the second plane 109 in any manner other than horizontal movement. Here, the second plane 109 is defined by the inner surface of a recess 123 drilled in the second smooth surface 122. The recess 123 is closed by the second holder 115 that overlaps the second smooth surface 122 in the first position, defining a paper slot chamber for storing paper strips 108 between the second holder 115 and the second plane 109.

[0025] The second holder (slider) 115 is formed as a flat plate that blocks the entire guideway in the first position. The upper edge of the flat plate engages with the restricting edge 121a of the upper second rail 121. The lower edge of the flat plate engages with the restricting edge 121a of the lower second rail 121. The second holder (slider) 115 may be molded from, for example, a hard acrylic resin. The second holder 115 is formed from a material that blocks air (a non-breathable material).

[0026] The paper piece 108 contains an aroma component. The paper piece 108 is formed long in the horizontal direction. The contour of the depression 123 may be set to match the contour of the paper piece 108. The paper piece 108 has an absorbency for retaining a solvent for the aroma component. For example, perfume can be impregnated into the paper piece 108. For example, a paper material that changes color in response to absorption of the aroma component may be used for the paper piece 108. For example, litmus paper can change color in response to a change in pH in response to absorption of the aroma component.

[0027] As shown in Figure 3, a magnet 124 is fixed to the back surface of the plate 111 at a position offset from the guide path defined by the first rail 116 and the second rail 121. When the photo frame 103 is received on the flat plate 105 of the auxiliary member 104, the magnet 124 comes into surface contact with the surface of the flat plate 105. The photo frame 103 is held on the flat plate 105 by the action of magnetic force. The magnet 124 protrudes at a predetermined height from a plane including the back surface of the plate 111. The magnet 124 forms a gap Hs between the second holder 115 and the flat plate 105 of the auxiliary member 104. The gap Hs is open to the atmosphere at the outer periphery of the plate 111.

[0028] As shown in Figure 4, the second holder 115 has a through-hole 125 that connects the paper chip chamber to the outside space. The fragrant components of the paper chip 108 can be diffused into the outside space through the through-hole 125. The distance Hs between the second holder 115 and the flat plate 105 connects the through-hole 125 to the atmosphere. Alternatively, the through-hole may be drilled in the plate material 111 to connect the paper chip chamber to the outside space.

[0029] Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 5 , the first plane 107 and the second plane 109 may be formed flush with the rear surface of the plate material 111. In this example, the first plane 107 is included within the first smooth surface 117. A recess 118 is formed in the first holder 114 at a position overlapping the first plane 107. When the first holder 114 is in the first position, the first smooth surface 117 (first plane 107) closes the recess 118. In this way, a photo room for accommodating a photo PC is defined between the first holder 114 and the first plane 107. Similarly, the second plane 109 is included within the second smooth surface 122. A recess 123 is formed in the second holder 115 at a position overlapping the second plane 109. When the second holder 115 is in the first position, the second smooth surface 122 (second plane 109) closes the recess 123. In this way, a paper chamber for storing paper pieces 108 is defined between the second holder 115 and the second flat surface 109. Similarly, the second holder 115 has a through-hole 125 that connects the paper chamber to the outside space. The fragrant components of the paper pieces 108 can be dissipated into the outside space through the through-hole 125. The distance Hs between the second holder 115 and the flat plate 105 connects the through-hole 125 to the atmosphere.

[0030] As shown in FIG. 6 , the auxiliary member 104 may further include a positioning piece 126 disposed between the flat plate 105 and the leg plate 106 to receive the lower edge of the photo frame 103. When the lower edge of the photo frame 103 is placed against the positioning piece 126, the lower edge of the photo frame 103 can be positioned horizontally. The position of the photo frame 103 can be set prior to magnetic fixation. The positioning piece 126 may protrude forward from the surface of the flat plate 105. If the flat plate 105 and the leg plate 106 are formed from a single metal plate, the positioning piece 126 may be formed between the flat plate 105 and the leg plate 106 by bending. The front end of the leg plate 106 is located forward of the center of gravity of the flat plate 105 and the photo frame 103, and the rear end of the leg plate 106 is located rearward of the center of gravity of the flat plate 105 and the photo frame 103, allowing the leg plate 106 to support the flat plate 105 in an upright position on the horizontal plane PL.

[0031] Next, the operation of the photo stand 101 according to the first embodiment will be described. The photo stand 101 is installed on a horizontal surface PL of a desk, shelf, or other piece of furniture. The legs 106 of the auxiliary member 104 are placed on the horizontal surface PL. The flat plate 105 is placed in an upright position on the horizontal surface PL. A photo frame 103 is fixed to the flat plate 105. A magnet 124 connects the photo frame 103 to the flat plate 105. Images from the photo PC are displayed forward through the transparent plate 102. A viewer can enjoy viewing the images. Because the photo frame 103 is connected to the auxiliary member 104 by magnetic force, the photo frame 103 can be easily removed from the auxiliary member 104.

[0032] The aroma components dissipate from the paper piece 108. The aroma components flow out of the through-hole 125 into the space outside the paper piece chamber. The aroma components pass through the gap Hs between the second holder 115 and the flat plate 105 and diffuse into the atmosphere from the periphery of the photo frame 103. In this way, the viewer can enjoy the aroma while viewing the image. Visual sensitivity can be enhanced by olfactory sensitivity. When past visual information is linked to the aroma in the viewer's memory, the viewer can be immersed in a sense of realism that is brought back to life.

[0033] When replacing the photo PC, the photo frame 103 is removed from the auxiliary member 104. In the photo frame 103, the first holder 114 is removed from the plate 111. The first holder 114 is driven along the guide path from the first position to the second position. The photo chamber is opened. The photo PC is removed from the recess 118. In this way, the photo PC can be separated from the plate 111 as a single unit.

[0034] A new photo PC is set in the recess 118. The photo PC is placed on the first plane 107. The image on the photo PC is aligned with the transparent plate 102. A first holder 114 is attached to the plate material 111. The first holder 114 is driven along the guideway from the second position to the first position. The first holder 114 closes the photo chamber. In this way, the photo PC can be replaced.

[0035] A user of the photo stand 101 can replenish the paper strip 108 with fragrance ingredients. To replenish the fragrance ingredients, the photo frame 103 is removed from the auxiliary member 104. In the photo frame 103, the second holder 115 is removed from the plate 111. The second holder 115 is driven along the guide path from the first position to the second position. The paper strip chamber is opened. The paper strip 108 is removed from the recess 123. In this way, the paper strip 108 can be separated from the plate 111 individually. To replenish the fragrance ingredients, the user may immerse the paper strip 108 in a liquid containing the fragrance ingredients, or may spray the liquid containing the fragrance ingredients (e.g., perfume) on the paper strip 108.

[0036] The paper slip 108 is set in the recess 123. The paper slip 108 is placed on the second plane 109. A second holder 115 is attached to the plate 111. The second holder 115 is driven along a guide path from the second position to the first position. The second holder 115 closes the paper slip chamber. In this way, the fragrance component can be replenished to the paper slip 108. Even if the fragrance disappears once, the user can enjoy the fragrance again by refilling. Even if the fragrance weakens, the fragrance can be strengthened by refilling.

[0037] When the second holder 115 is removed from the plate 111, the paper piece 108 can be separated from the plate 111 as a single piece. Since the paper piece 108 is itself an absorbent for the fragrance components, the fragrance components simply soak into the paper piece 108. For example, like perfume, the fragrance components can be simply sprayed onto the paper piece. The fragrance components can be replenished in a short time and without any hassle. Furthermore, the scent can be easily switched to another scent by simply replacing the paper piece 108 as a single piece. A different fragrance component, like perfume, can simply be sprayed onto a new paper piece 108.

[0038] Moreover, since the photo PC and the piece of paper 108 are held separately on the first plane 107 and the second plane 109, the piece of paper 108 is positioned away from the photo PC. Contact between the photo PC and the piece of paper 108 can be effectively avoided. Permeation of the fragrance components from the piece of paper 108 into the photo PC can be prevented.

[0039] The plate 111 of this embodiment is a resin plate that defines a first plane 107 and a second plane 109 on the back surface and has a transparent area that covers the image of the photo PC. An observer can view the image of the photo PC through the transparent area. The plate 111 can protect the image of the photo PC while ensuring the visibility of the image. Here, the first holder 114 can be maintained on the plate 111 when the second holder 115 is removed. When the piece of paper 108 is replaced, the photo PC can continue to be held on the plate 111 as is. Misalignment of the photo PC can be avoided when the piece of paper 108 is replaced.

[0040] In this embodiment, the second holder 115 is a slider that is guided by a pair of second rails 121 that extend linearly parallel to both sides of the second plane 109 and moves between a first position where it follows the second plane 109 to hold the piece of paper 108 and a second position where it is released from the second plane 109. Because the second rails 121 are disposed on the back surface of the plate 111, the surface of the plate 111 can be maintained smooth. The visibility of the image can be maintained excellent. The piece of paper 108 can be removed from the plate 111 in response to the movement of the second holder 115. Here, the second holder 115 can have an outward surface that is flush with the second rails 121. In this way, the shape of the back surface of the plate 111 can be adjusted.

[0041] As described above, the plate 111 is made of a transparent material. An opaque film 112 that covers the edges of the photo PC is formed on the surface of the plate 111. The plate 111 can be molded from a single transparent material. The plate 111 can be molded using a simple process. Inexpensive molding can be achieved. Meanwhile, since the edges of the photo PC are hidden by the opaque film 112, the image can be well highlighted.

[0042] The first holder 114 is a slider that is guided by a pair of first rails 116 extending parallel to both sides of the first plane 107 and moves between a first position where it holds the photo PC along the first plane 107 and a second position where it is removed from the first plane 107. Because the first rails 116 are disposed on the back surface of the plate 111, the surface of the plate 111 can be maintained smooth. Good image visibility can be maintained. The photo PC can be removed from the plate 111 in response to the movement of the first holder 114. Here, the first holder 114 can have an outward surface that is flush with the first rails 116. In this way, the shape of the back surface of the plate 111 can be adjusted.

[0043] As shown in Fig. 7, instead of the aforementioned auxiliary member 104, the auxiliary member 131 may be a shaft 132 attached to the plate 111 and extending rearward from the rear surface of the plate 111. The shaft 132 has, for example, a threaded shaft 133 having an axis perpendicular to the rear surface of the plate 111. The shaft 132 may be formed, for example, as a cylindrical body coaxial with the threaded shaft 133. The threaded shaft 133 is screwed into the rear surface of the plate 111. In this way, the shaft 132 can be detachably fixed to the plate 111 by engaging the screw. The shaft 132 can be formed from a metal material such as aluminum.

[0044] According to the shaft 132, the photo frame 103 is supported on the horizontal plane PL at the rear lower end of the plate material 111, and the rear end of the shaft 132 is also supported on the horizontal plane PL. Since the rear lower end of the plate material 111 is located forward of the center of gravity of the photo frame 103 and the rear end of the shaft 132 is located rearward of the center of gravity of the photo frame 103, the shaft 132 can support the photo frame 103 in an upright position on the horizontal plane PL. Here, the photo frame 103 tilts backward at a specific angle around the rear lower end.

[0045] As shown in FIG. 8 , instead of the aforementioned auxiliary members 104 and 131, the auxiliary member 134 may be a weight 135 placed on the horizontal plane PL. The weight 135 may be, for example, a rectangular block of stainless steel or other metal with a specific gravity of 7 or more. A horizontally extending linear groove 136 is formed on the top surface of the weight 135. For example, the bottom end of a photo frame 103 can be inserted into the groove 136 from above. In this case, the centers of gravity of the weight 135 and the photo frame 103 are positioned within the contact area between the weight 135 and the horizontal plane PL. As a result, the weight 135 can hold the photo frame 103 in an upright position on the horizontal plane PL.

[0046] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of a photo stand according to a second embodiment. The photo stand 141 includes a photo frame 143 that displays a photo PC image through a transparent plate 142 while emitting a fragrance, and an auxiliary member 144 that holds the photo frame 143 in an upright position on a horizontal plane PL. The photo PC can be a paper photo print, instant film with a white margin around the image, or other media. The transparent plate 142 can be made of, for example, a glass plate. The photo PC is placed on the back of the transparent plate 142. A frame 146 that defines a window 145 through which the photo PC image is displayed is placed on the front of the transparent plate 142. The frame 146 can be molded from an opaque hard resin material or wood. The frame 146 covers the entire periphery of the transparent plate 142, obscuring the edge of the transparent plate 142. A viewer can view the photo PC image through the transparent plate 142.

[0047] As shown in FIG. 10 , the photo frame 143 includes a plate member 153 defining a first plane 151 on the front surface for receiving a photo PC and a second plane 152 on the back surface for receiving a long piece of paper 108 containing an aromatic component. The second plane 152 is separate from the first plane 151. The plate member 153 may be made of an opaque material as a whole. The plate member 153 may be molded, for example, from an opaque hard resin material or wood. The plate member 153 is formed from a material that blocks airflow (i.e., a non-breathable material). When the plate member 153 is fitted into the frame body 146 from the back, the first plane 151 presses the photo PC against the back surface of the transparent plate 142. In this way, the photo PC is held in place along the first plane 151. The frame body 146 and the transparent plate 142 cooperate to form a first holder according to the present invention.

[0048] Fasteners 154 are attached to the frame 146 to hold the plate 153 fitted into the frame 146. The fasteners 154 are displaceable between a first position where they engage with the rear surface of the fitted plate 153 from behind, and a second position where they rotate from the first position around a rotation axis 155 and are disengaged from the plate 153. When all the fasteners 154 are disengaged from the plate 153 in the second position, the plate 153 can be removed from the frame 146. The photo PC can be replaced by removing the plate 153.

[0049] The photo frame 143 further includes a second holder 156 that is detachably attached to the plate 153 and holds the piece of paper 108 along the second flat surface 152. The second holder 156 is a slider that is guided by a pair of slide rails 157 that extend parallel to both sides of the second flat surface 152 and moves between a first position where the second holder 156 holds the piece of paper 108 along the second flat surface 152 and a second position where the second holder 156 is removed from the second flat surface 152. The slide rails 157 extend horizontally and linearly. A smooth surface 158 is defined on the back surface of the plate 153 between the slide rails 157. The slide rails 157 define a guide path that contacts the smooth surface 158. When defining the guide path, the slide rails 157 form a restricting edge 157a between the slide rails 157 and the smooth surface 158 that receives the second holder 156. The restricting edge 157a allows horizontal movement of the second holder 156 along the guide path, while restricting the second holder 156 from separating from the second plane 152 in any manner other than horizontal movement. At this time, a guide path 159 that continues from the guide path and opens at the periphery of the frame 146 is defined in the frame 146. The second holder 156 passes through the guide path 159 when displacing in the horizontal direction.

[0050] Here, the second plane 152 is defined by the inner surface of a recess 161 bored in the smooth surface 158. The recess 161 is closed by a second holder 156 that overlaps the smooth surface 158 in the first position, and a paper sheet chamber for accommodating paper sheets 108 is defined between the second holder 156 and the second plane 152. The second holder (slider) 156 is formed as a flat plate that closes the entire guide path in the first position. The upper edge of the flat plate engages with the restricting edge 157a of the upper slide rail 157. The lower edge of the flat plate engages with the restricting edge 157a of the lower slide rail 157.

[0051] The second holder (slider) 156 can be molded from, for example, a hard acrylic resin. The second holder 156 is formed from a material that blocks air (a non-breathable material). The second holder 156 has a through-hole 162 that connects the paper slot chamber to the outside space. The fragrant components of the paper slot 108 can be released into the outside space through the through-hole 162.

[0052] The auxiliary member 144 is attached to the plate 153 and includes a support leg 164 that is displaceable between a first position where it overlaps the plate 153 and a second position where it rotates from the first position about a rotation axis 163 and is separated from the plate 153 by a predetermined angle about the rotation axis 163. The support leg 164 may be formed, for example, of a polygonal flat plate that overlaps the plate 153. The support leg 164 defines a first edge 164a that extends linearly parallel to the bottom end of the frame 146 at a position away from the rotation axis 163, and a second edge 164b that extends linearly parallel to the side end of the frame 146 at a position away from the rotation axis 163.

[0053] Similar to a typical photo stand, when the lower end of the frame body 146 is supported on the horizontal plane PL and the first edge 164a of the support leg 164 at the second position is supported on the horizontal plane PL, the support leg 164 can hold the photo frame 143 in a vertically upright position on the horizontal plane PL. At this time, the frame body 146 tilts backward at a specific angle around the lower end. The lower end of the frame body 146 is located forward of the center of gravity of the photo frame 143, and the first edge 164a of the support leg 164 is located rearward of the center of gravity of the photo frame 143. When the side end of the frame body 146 is supported on the horizontal plane PL and the second edge 164b of the support leg 164 at the second position is supported on the horizontal plane PL, the support leg 164 can hold the photo frame 143 in a horizontally upright position on the horizontal plane PL. At this time, the frame body 146 tilts backward at a specific angle around the side end. The side end of the frame 146 is located forward of the center of gravity of the photo frame 143 , and the second edge 164 b of the support leg 164 is located rearward of the center of gravity of the photo frame 143 .

[0054] Like a typical photo stand, the photo frame 143 may include a first keyhole member 166 and a second keyhole member 167 for wall hanging. The first keyhole member 166 and the second keyhole member 167 are attached to the frame body 146. Alternatively, the first keyhole member 166 and the second keyhole member 167 may be attached to the back surface of the plate member 153. The first keyhole member 166 has an elongated hole 166a extending perpendicularly to the frame body 146 in a vertical orientation and an enlarged-diameter access hole 166b that is continuous with the lower end of the elongated hole 166a in the direction of gravity. Similarly, the second keyhole member 167 has an elongated hole 167a extending perpendicularly to the frame body 146 in a horizontal orientation and an enlarged-diameter access hole 167b that is continuous with the lower end of the elongated hole 167a in the direction of gravity. The wall fitting (not shown) may include a shaft extending horizontally perpendicular to the wall and guided along the long holes 166a, 167a, and an enlarged head connected to the tip of the shaft to allow entry and exit into the entry holes 166b, 167b but prevent it from slipping out of the long holes 166a, 167a.

[0055] Next, the operation of the photo stand 141 according to the second embodiment will be described. The photo stand 141 is installed on a horizontal plane PL of a desk, shelf, or other piece of furniture. For example, in the case of a portrait photo PC, the lower end of the frame 146 and the first edge 164a of the support leg 164 are supported on the horizontal plane PL. When installed in this manner, the support leg 164 is restricted to a second position around the rotation axis 163. The frame 146 is placed in an upright position on the horizontal plane PL. An image on the photo PC is displayed forward through the transparent plate 142. The viewer can enjoy viewing the image. In the case of a landscape photo PC, the side end of the frame 146 and the second edge 164b of the support leg 164 are supported on the horizontal plane PL.

[0056] The fragrant components are released from the paper piece 108. The fragrant components flow out of the through-hole 162 into the space outside the paper piece chamber. The fragrant components are diffused into the atmosphere. In this way, the viewer can enjoy the scent while viewing the image. Visual sensitivity can be enhanced by olfactory sensitivity. When past visual information is linked to the scent in the viewer's memory, the viewer can be immersed in a sense of realism that is brought back to life.

[0057] To replace the photo PC, the plate 153 is removed from the frame 146. To remove the photo PC, the fastener 154 is driven from a first position to a second position around a rotation axis 155. In response to the removal, the plate 153 is separated from the photo PC. The second holder 156 is maintained on the plate 153. The photo PC is peeled off from the back surface of the transparent plate 142. The transparent plate 142 can remain on the frame 146.

[0058] A new photo PC is set in the frame 146 from the rear. The photo PC is placed on the transparent plate 142. The image on the photo PC is aligned with the window 145 in the frame 146. A plate member 153 is attached to the frame 146. During attachment, the fasteners 154 are driven from the second position to the first position around the rotation axis 155. In this way, the photo PC can be replaced.

[0059] A user of the photo stand 141 can refill the paper strip 108 with fragrance ingredients. When refilling the fragrance ingredients, the connection between the plate 153 and the frame 146 can be maintained. The second holder 156 is removed from the plate 153. The second holder 156 is driven along the guide path from the first position to the second position. The paper strip chamber is opened. The paper strip 108 is removed from the recess 161. In this way, the paper strip 108 can be separated from the plate 153 individually. When refilling the fragrance ingredients, the user can immerse the paper strip 108 in a liquid containing the fragrance ingredients, or can spray the liquid containing the fragrance ingredients (e.g., perfume) on the paper strip 108.

[0060] The paper slip 108 is set in the recess 161. The paper slip 108 is placed on the second plane 152. A second holder 156 is attached to the plate 153. The second holder 156 is driven along a guide path from the second position to the first position. The second holder 156 closes the paper slip chamber. In this way, the fragrance component can be replenished to the paper slip 108. Even if the fragrance disappears once, the user can enjoy the fragrance again by refilling. Even if the fragrance weakens, the fragrance can be strengthened by refilling.

[0061] When the second holder 156 is removed from the plate 153, the paper piece 108 can be separated from the plate 153 individually. Since the paper piece 108 is itself an absorbent for the fragrance components, the fragrance components simply soak into the paper piece 108. For example, the fragrance components can be simply sprayed onto the paper piece, like perfume. The fragrance components can be replenished in a short time and without any hassle. Furthermore, the scent can be easily switched to another scent by simply replacing the paper piece 108. A different fragrance component, like perfume, can be simply sprayed onto a new paper piece 108.

[0062] The plate 153 of this embodiment defines a first plane 151 on its front surface and a second plane 152 on its rear surface. The transparent plate 142 of the first holder is placed on the front surface of the plate 153, sandwiching and holding the photo PC between the plate 153. The second holder 156 is placed on the rear surface of the plate 153, sandwiching and holding the piece of paper 108 between the plate 153. The photo PC and the piece of paper 108 are physically separated by the plate 153. Contact between the photo PC and the piece of paper 108 can be effectively avoided. Permeation of aroma components from the piece of paper 108 into the photo PC can be prevented. Moreover, the photo PC can be kept away from the path of vaporized aroma components. Transfer of aroma components from the piece of paper 108 to the photo PC can also be effectively prevented.

[0063] The support legs 164 and keyhole members 166, 167 may be attached to a magnetic flat plate. For example, the photo frame 103 can be fixed to the flat plate using the magnetic force of the magnet 124. For example, in the case of a portrait photo PC, the lower end of the flat plate and the first edge 164a of the support legs 164 may be supported on the horizontal plane PL. When installed in this manner, the support legs 164 are restricted to a second position around the rotation axis 163. The frame body 146 is placed in an upright position on the horizontal plane PL. The image of the photo PC is displayed forward through the transparent plate 102. The viewer can enjoy viewing the image. In the case of a landscape photo PC, the side edges of the flat plate and the second edges 164b of the support legs 164 may be supported on the horizontal plane PL.

[0064] FIG. 11 schematically illustrates a photo frame used in a photo stand according to the third embodiment. The photo frame 173 of this embodiment can be combined with the auxiliary member 104 described above to form the photo stand 101. The photo frame 173 includes a plate member 176 that defines a first plane 174 on the front surface for receiving a photo PC and a second plane 175 on the back surface for receiving a piece of paper 108. The second plane 175 is separated from the first plane 174. The plate member 176 may be formed, for example, from a transparent body as a whole. The transparent body may be molded, for example, from a hard acrylic resin. Alternatively, the plate member 176 may be formed from an opaque material. The plate member 176 is formed from a material that blocks air (a non-breathable material).

[0065] The photo frame 173 further includes a first holder 177 detachably attached to the plate 176 and configured to hold the photo PC along the first plane 174, and a second holder 178 detachably attached to the plate 176 and configured to hold the piece of paper 108 along the second plane 175. The first holder 177 is placed on the surface of the plate 176 to sandwich and hold the photo PC between the plate 176 and the first holder 177. The first holder 177 may be configured as a transparent body, for example. The transparent body may be molded from a hard acrylic resin, for example. A viewer can view the image on the photo PC through the first holder 177. Here, the outline of the first holder 177 is superimposed on the outline of the plate 176. Therefore, the first holder 177 and the plate 176 can be recognized as a single rectangular parallelepiped.

[0066] When attaching the first holder 177, a first magnetic body 181 is fixed to the surface of the plate 176 at a position offset from the first plane 174 (photo PC). First magnets 182, which individually exert a magnetic force acting on the first magnetic body 181, are fixed to the back surface of the first holder 177. The first magnets 182 are embedded in the back surface of the first holder 177. When the first holder 177 is received on the surface of the plate 176, the first magnetic body 181 comes into surface contact with the first magnet 182. The first magnetic body 181 may have an outline that overlaps with the first magnet 182 when the first holder 177 is placed on the plate 176. The first holder 177 is fixed to the plate 176 by the action of magnetic force. The photo PC is sandwiched between the placed plate 176 and the first holder 177. The first magnetic body 181 and the first magnet 182 may be made of a transparent material. The first magnetic body 181 may be embedded in the surface of the plate member 176 .

[0067] The second holder 178 is placed on the back surface of the plate 176 and sandwiches and holds the piece of paper 108 between the plate 176 and itself. The piece of paper 108 is positioned inside the outline of the photo PC projected onto the back surface of the plate 176 in a direction perpendicular to the front surface of the plate 176. The second holder 178 may be made of, for example, a transparent body as a whole. The transparent body may be molded from, for example, hard acrylic resin. The second holder 178 is formed from a material that blocks airflow (a non-breathable material). In this case, the outline of the second holder 178 is superimposed on the outlines of the first holder 177 and the plate 176. Therefore, the first holder 177, the plate 176, and the second holder 178 can be recognized as a single rectangular parallelepiped. Alternatively, the second holder 178 may be formed from an opaque material.

[0068] When attaching the second holder 178, a second magnet 183 is fixed to the back surface of the plate 176. The second magnet 183 is positioned inside the outline of the first magnetic body 181 projected in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the plate 176. A second magnetic body 184 is fixed to the surface of the second holder 178 and coupled to the corresponding second magnet 183 based on the magnetic force acting from the second magnet 183. The second magnet 183 is embedded in the back surface of the plate 176. When the second holder 178 is received on the back surface of the plate 176, the second magnetic body 184 comes into surface contact with the second magnet 183. The second magnetic body 184 may have an outline that overlaps with the second magnet 183 when the second holder 178 is placed on the plate 176. The second holder 178 is fixed to the plate 176 by the action of magnetic force. The piece of paper 108 is sandwiched between the stacked plate material 176 and second holder 178. The second magnetic body 184 and second magnet 183 may be made of a transparent material. A gap is formed between the back surface of the plate material 176 and the surface of the second holder 178 based on the thickness of the piece of paper 108 and the thickness of the second magnetic body 184. As long as the gap is secured, the second magnetic body 184 may be embedded in the surface of the second holder 178.

[0069] A third magnet 185 is fixed to the back surface of the second holder 178. The third magnet 185 is positioned inside the outline of the second magnetic material 184 projected in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the second holder 178. The third magnet 185 is embedded in the back surface of the second holder 178. When the photo frame 173 is received on the flat plate 105 of the auxiliary member 104, the third magnet 185 comes into surface contact with the surface of the flat plate 105. The photo frame 173 is held on the flat plate 105 by the action of magnetic force. Here, the second holder 178 can be configured in the same way as the plate 176. If the plate 176 and the second holder 178 are made of a common material, manufacturing costs can be reduced.

[0070] Next, the operation of the photo frame 173 according to the third embodiment will be described. The photo frame 173 can be connected to the auxiliary member 104 of the photo stand 101 in place of the previously described photo frame 103. The photo stand 101 is placed on a horizontal surface PL of a desk, shelf, or other piece of furniture. The leg plate 106 of the auxiliary member 104 is placed on the horizontal surface PL. The flat plate 105 is placed in an upright position on the horizontal surface PL. The photo frame 173 is fixed to the flat plate 105. A magnet 185 connects the photo frame 173 to the flat plate 105. Images from the photo PC are displayed forward through the first holder 177. The viewer can enjoy viewing the images. Because the photo frame 173 is connected to the auxiliary member 104 by magnetic force, the photo frame 173 can be easily detached from the auxiliary member 104.

[0071] The fragrant components are released from the piece of paper 108. The fragrant components pass through the gap between the plate 176 and the second holder 178 and diffuse into the atmosphere from the periphery of the photo frame 173. The viewer can enjoy the scent while viewing the image. Visual sensitivity can be enhanced by olfactory sensitivity. When past visual information is linked to the scent in the viewer's memory, the viewer can be immersed in a revived sense of presence.

[0072] When replacing the photo PC, the photo frame 173 is removed from the auxiliary member 104. In the photo frame 173, the first holder 177 is removed from the plate 176. Since the first holder 177 is connected to the plate 176 by the magnetic force of the first magnet 182, the first holder 177 can be easily removed from the plate 176. The photo PC is removed from the first flat surface 174. The photo PC can be separated from the plate 176 as a single unit.

[0073] A new photo PC is placed on the first flat surface 174 of the plate 176. The image on the photo PC is aligned. A first holder 177 is attached to the plate 176. The first holder 177 is placed on the surface of the plate 176. The first holder 177 covers the photo PC. The first holder 177 is fixed to the plate 176 in response to the magnetic force of the first magnet 182. In this way, the photo PC can be replaced.

[0074] A user of the photo stand 101 can replenish the piece of paper 108 with fragrance ingredients. To replenish the fragrance ingredients, the photo frame 173 is removed from the auxiliary member 104. In the photo frame 173, the second holder 178 is removed from the plate 176. Because the second holder 178 is connected to the plate 176 by the magnetic force of the second magnet 183, the second holder 178 can be easily removed from the plate 176. The piece of paper 108 is removed from the second plane 175. The piece of paper 108 can be separated from the plate 176 by itself. To replenish the fragrance ingredients, the user may immerse the piece of paper 108 in a liquid containing the fragrance ingredients, or may spray the liquid containing the fragrance ingredients (e.g., perfume) onto the piece of paper 108.

[0075] The piece of paper 108 is placed on the second flat surface 175 of the plate 176. The piece of paper 108 is aligned. The second holder 178 is attached to the plate 176. The second holder 178 is placed on the back surface of the plate 176. The second holder 178 covers the piece of paper 108. The second holder 178 is fixed to the plate 176 in response to the magnetic force of the second magnet 183. In this way, the fragrance component can be replenished to the piece of paper 108. Even if the fragrance disappears once, the user can enjoy the fragrance again by refilling. Even if the fragrance weakens, the fragrance can be strengthened by refilling.

[0076] When the second holder 178 is removed from the plate 176, the paper piece 108 can be separated from the plate 176 individually. Because the paper piece 108 is itself an absorbent for the fragrance components, the fragrance components simply soak into the paper piece 108. For example, like perfume, the fragrance components can simply be sprayed onto the paper piece. The fragrance components can be replenished in a short time and without any hassle. Furthermore, the scent can be easily switched to another scent by simply replacing the paper piece 108 individually. A different fragrance component, like perfume, can simply be sprayed onto a new paper piece 108.

[0077] The plate 176 of this embodiment defines a first plane 174 on its front surface and a second plane 175 on its rear surface. The first holder 177 is placed on the front surface of the plate 176 and sandwiches and holds the photo PC between itself and the plate 176. The second holder 178 is placed on the rear surface of the plate 176 and sandwiches and holds the piece of paper 108 between itself and the plate 176. The photo PC and the piece of paper 108 are physically separated by the plate 176. Contact between the photo PC and the piece of paper 108 can be effectively avoided. Permeation of aroma components from the piece of paper 108 into the photo PC can be prevented. Moreover, the photo PC can be kept away from the path of vaporized aroma components. Transfer of aroma components from the piece of paper 108 to the photo PC can also be effectively prevented.

[0078] In this embodiment, the piece of paper 108 is positioned inside the outline of the photo PC projected onto the rear surface of the plate 176 in a direction perpendicular to the front surface of the plate 176. Because the piece of paper 108 is positioned behind the photo PC, the piece of paper 108 can be hidden by the photo PC from the front side even if the first holder 177 and the plate 176 are both made of a single transparent material. The image of the photo PC can be clearly seen.

[0079] FIG. 12 schematically illustrates a product packaging unit according to one embodiment of the present invention. The product packaging unit 191 includes an outer box 192. The outer box 192 is formed from a lower outer box 193 and an upper outer box 194 that fits over the lower outer box 193. As shown in FIG. 13, the lower outer box 193 is composed of a rectangular bottom panel 193a and four side panels 193b that extend perpendicularly from the four sides of the bottom panel 193a. A rectangular storage space is defined inside the lower outer box 193. An inner box (product packaging box) 11 is housed in this storage space. The bottom panel 193a and the side panels 193b are individually formed from flat paperboard. The bottom panel 193a and the side panels 193b are interconnected by ridges, and the side panels 193b themselves are connected by ridges. The lower outer box 193 has a seamless, continuous appearance.

[0080] The upper outer box 194 is composed of a rectangular top panel 194a and four side panels 194b that descend vertically from the four sides of the top panel 194a. The top panel 194a is supported by the upper ends of the side panels 193b of the lower outer box 193, closing the opening 195 of the lower outer box 193 that is surrounded by the side panels 193b. The side panels 194b of the upper outer box 194 surround the side panels 193b of the lower outer box 193. The top panel 194a and the side panels 194b are individually formed from flat paperboard. The top panel 194a and the side panels 194b, as well as the side panels 194b themselves, are connected to each other by ridges. For example, a logo of the seller or manufacturer can be printed on the top surface of the upper outer box 194. The ridges give the upper outer box 194 a seamless, continuous appearance. The upper outer box 194 is entirely opaque. Alternatively, the top plate 194a may be made of a transparent resin material.

[0081] As shown in Figure 14, the inner box 11 includes a lower box body 12 and an upper box body 13 that overlaps the lower box body 12 to form a rectangular parallelepiped together with the lower box body 12. The lower box body 12 includes a hard resin molded body having a rectangular bottom plate 14a and four side walls 14b that rise perpendicularly from the four sides of the bottom plate 14a, and a sticker 15 that is attached to the outer surface of the resin molded body to decorate the resin molded body. The upper box body 13 includes a hard resin molded body having a rectangular recess 61 for receiving a photo frame 103 and side walls 16b that descend from the four sides of the top plate 16a and whose lower ends meet the upper ends of the side walls 14b of the lower box body 12 to form the side walls of the inner box 11, and a sticker 17 that is attached to the outer surface of the resin molded body to decorate the resin molded body. The stickers 15 and 17 may be made of, for example, a suede-like or cloth-patterned resin sheet. The sticker 17 covers the inner surface of the recess 61. The inner surface of the recess 61 is neatly arranged by the sticker 17. The upper box body 13 is formed of a material that blocks ventilation (a non-breathable material) at least in the area that separates the recess 61.

[0082] The photo frame 103 is fixed within the recess 61 by fitting it to the contour of the recess 61. The plate 111 is fitted into the recess 61. When fitted, the plate 111 contacts the inner wall surface of the recess 61, for example, at its upper and lower edges in a plan view. The upper and / or lower edges in a plan view position the plate 111 in the up-down direction in a plan view. The surface of the plate 111 defines a flat surface 63. The space above the flat surface 63 is surrounded by an enclosure 64. The enclosure 64 has wall surfaces 64a that rise from a horizontal plane including the flat surface 63, matching the contour of the recess 61. The wall surfaces 64a are continuous with the inner wall surface of the recess 61 along each edge of the contour within a vertical plane. The wall surfaces 64a can guide the plate 111 downward in the vertical direction. In this way, the plate 111 and the enclosure 64 cooperate to form a tray on the top surface of the upper box body 13. The plate material 111 constitutes the entire bottom plate of the tray. Here, the recess 61 defines a space 65 that is adjacent to the outer periphery of the plate material 111 and opens in a horizontal plane including the flat surface 63. The space 65 is located outside the left and right edges in a plan view. The space 65 may be located on either the left or right edge. The space 65 opens to a size that will prevent small items from falling when the plate material 111 is used as a tray.

[0083] As shown in Figure 15, a cushioning material 18 is fitted into the rectangular parallelepiped space surrounded by the side wall 14b of the lower box body 12. The cushioning material 18 is formed, for example, from a sponge and a cloth material 18a that encases the sponge. A slit 19 is formed in the cushioning material 18. For example, a ring (jewelry) 21 is inserted into the slit 19. The ring 21 is held in the slit 19 by the elastic force of the cushioning material 18.

[0084] The ring 21 includes a platinum ring member 22 having a diameter corresponding to the thickness of the finger, for example, and diamond grains 23 fixed to the base of the ring member 22. The diamond grains 23 may be one or more. The diamond grains 23 have a blue fluorescence of strong or higher (strong blue or very strong blue). The diamond grains 23 emit a transparent glow under visible light (e.g., natural light or electric light) while glowing blue under ultraviolet light. The diamond grains 23 are supported by the lower box body 12 in this manner. When multiple diamond grains 23 are arranged, it is preferable that the blue fluorescence of all of the diamond grains 23 (or a group of diamond grains that are cohesive in terms of design) be unified to a strong blue or very strong blue.

[0085] A lining material 24 is fitted into the rectangular parallelepiped space surrounded by the side walls 16b of the upper box body 13. The lining material 24 comprises a decorative top panel 24a with a rectangular outline that forms the ceiling surface of the inner box 11, and four lining plates 24b that are continuous with each of the four sides of the decorative top panel 24a and are overlapped from the inside onto the four side walls 16b. Here, the four lining plates 24b are not adhered to the inner surfaces of the side walls 16b, and the lining material 24 is housed in the upper box body 13 in a detachable manner.

[0086] As shown in Figure 16, the upper box body 13 is connected to the lower box body 12 by a hinge 26 so as to be able to open and close freely. The hinge 26 includes a first blade 27 having a plurality of tubes 27a and secured to one side wall 16b of the upper box body 13 from the inside, a second blade 28 having a plurality of tubes 28a arranged in series and staggered around the tubes 27a of the first blade 27 and secured to the side wall 14b of the lower box body 12 from the inside, and a single hinge pin 29 inserted commonly into the tubes 27a of the first blade 27 and the tubes 28a of the second blade 28. The first blade 27 and the second blade 28 rotate relatively around the hinge pin 29. The central axis of the hinge pin 29 corresponds to the axis of rotation of the upper box body 13 when opened or closed.

[0087] A leaf spring 31 is connected to the hinge 26. As shown in FIG. 17 , the leaf spring 31 is formed as a curved body that maintains a generatrix parallel to the axis of the hinge pin 29. Both ends of the leaf spring 31 are respectively coupled to the first and second blades 27 and 28 at positions away from the hinge pin 29. In the closed position where the lower end of the upper case body 13 is aligned with the upper end of the lower case body 12, the first and second blades 27 and 28 are arranged side by side along one plane, and the middle region of the leaf spring 31 is furthest inward from the hinge pin 29. As the upper case body 13 moves around the hinge pin 29 from the closed position to the open position, the outer angle between the first and second blades 27 and 28 narrows, and the middle region of the leaf spring 31 approaches the hinge pin 29. 18 , when the intermediate region of the leaf spring 31 contacts the hinge pin 29, displacement of the upper box body 13 around the hinge pin 29 relative to the lower box body 12 is restricted, and the open position of the upper box body 13 is determined. When the opening angle around the hinge pin 29 is smaller than the predetermined intermediate opening angle, the leaf spring 31 applies a driving force to the upper box body 13 toward the closed position. When the opening angle is greater than the predetermined intermediate opening angle, the leaf spring 31 applies a driving force to the upper box body 13 toward the open position. The hinge 26 and leaf spring 31 are covered with a hinge cover 32. The hinge cover 32 is formed, for example, from a material similar to the fabric material 18a of the cushioning material 18.

[0088] An LED lamp (light source) 33 that emits ultraviolet light in accordance with a predetermined directivity Dv is embedded in the decorative top panel 24a of the upper box 13. The LED lamp 33 emits, for example, long-wavelength UV-A light (optimally, a wavelength of 395 nm to 405 nm). Preferably, the LED lamp 33 emits only light other than visible light. Preferably, the LED lamp 33 has a narrow directivity Dv. The LED lamp 33 has a directivity Dv that is blocked by the lower box 12 over the entire irradiation area.

[0089] A battery 35 is connected to the LED lamp 33. The battery 35 is housed in a battery chamber 34 defined between the resin-molded top panel 16a and the decorative top panel 24a. The battery 35 may be, for example, a thin button battery. Here, for example, a plurality of button batteries are connected in series. Current is supplied to the LED lamp 33 from the battery 35.

[0090] A switch 36 that controls the supply and cut-off of current to the LED lamp 33 is incorporated into the hinge 26 and the leaf spring 31. A first contact 37 is fixedly attached to the middle region of the leaf spring 31 while being electrically insulated from the leaf spring 31. The hinge 26 functions as a second contact that cooperates with the first contact 37 to form the switch 36. Therefore, the hinge 26 is made of a conductive material. The first contact 37 is made of a conductive material such as copper. For example, an insulator is sandwiched between the first contact 37 and the leaf spring 31. The first contact 37 is arranged on the surface of the leaf spring 31 that faces the hinge pin 29. The first contact 37 comes into contact with the hinge 26 when the upper box body 13 is in the open position and is spaced apart from the hinge 26 when the upper box body 13 is not in the open position.

[0091] A magnetic body 66 can be incorporated into the upper box body 13 to secure the photo frame 103. The magnetic body 66 is formed, for example, from a thin plate that forms the bottom surface of the recess 61. The thin plate may be, for example, a stainless steel plate. The magnet 124 of the photo frame 103 is in surface contact with the surface of the magnetic body 66. The magnetic force of the magnet 124 connects the photo frame 103 to the magnetic body 66. The magnet 124 serves to secure the photo frame 103 in the recess 61. The photo frame 103 can be securely held in the recess 61 regardless of whether the upper box body 13 is open or closed.

[0092] As shown in FIG. 19 , a light irradiation circuit 38 according to a first example is constructed in the inner box 11, and includes an LED lamp 33, a battery 35, and a switch 36. In the light irradiation circuit 38, the LED element of the LED lamp 33 is connected in series to the battery 35. A timer-timed normally open contact (hereinafter referred to as the "timer contact") 39 is connected in series to the LED lamp 33. A switch 36 and a timer 41 are connected in parallel to the LED lamp 33 and the timer contact 39. When the switch 36 is conductive, the timer 41 operates, and the timer contact 39 closes after a predetermined time (hereinafter referred to as the "first time") has elapsed. As a result, the LED lamp 33 is energized. When the switch 36 is opened, the timer 41 is reset and the timer contact 39 is opened. As a result, the LED lamp 33 is turned off.

[0093] As shown in Fig. 20, an audio playback unit 45 that plays back recorded audio is incorporated into the inner box 11. The audio playback unit 45 includes an audio circuit 48 that receives an audio signal from a microphone 46 and supplies the audio signal to a speaker 47. The battery 35 is connected to the audio circuit 48. The audio circuit 48 operates by receiving voltage from the battery 35.

[0094] The microphone 46 detects air vibrations caused by sound and converts them into an audio signal (electrical signal). The generated audio signal is recorded in, for example, a memory 49. The memory 49 can be, for example, an EEPROM. The memory 49 is preferably a memory that allows an audio signal to be written only once. The microphone 46 is supported by the upper case 13 or the lower case 12. Here, the microphone 46 is housed in a space partitioned between the tabletop 16a and the decorative tabletop 24a, for example. The tabletop 16a or the decorative tabletop 24a may have a through hole formed therein, positioned corresponding to the position of the microphone 46, for connecting outside air to the microphone 46.

[0095] The speaker 47 generates vibrations in the air based on an audio signal and reproduces the corresponding sound. The reproduced sound stimulates the auditory sense of the observer, allowing the observer to hear the sound. The speaker 47 is supported by the upper box body 13 or the lower box body 12. In this example, the speaker 47 is housed in a space partitioned between the tabletop 16a and the decorative tabletop 24a, for example. The tabletop 16a or the decorative tabletop 24a may have a through hole formed therein, positioned corresponding to the position of the speaker 47, for connecting the speaker 47 to outside air.

[0096] A hold circuit 51 is connected to the audio playback unit 45, which holds audio playback until a predetermined time (hereinafter referred to as the "second time") has elapsed since the start of ultraviolet irradiation. The hold circuit 51 connects the switch 36 to the audio circuit 48. The battery 35 and switch 36 are common to the audio circuit 48 and the light irradiation circuit 38. The hold circuit 51 measures (first time + second time) from the time the switch 36 becomes conductive. Here, when the predetermined second time has elapsed since the start of ultraviolet irradiation, the audio circuit 48 retrieves an audio signal from the memory 49 and supplies it to the speaker 47.

[0097] A recording switch 52 is connected to the audio circuit 48. When the recording switch 52 is turned on, the audio circuit 48 acquires an audio signal from the microphone 46 and stores the audio signal in the memory 49. As shown in FIG. 21 , the button for the recording switch 52 can be installed on the inner wall of the upper case 13. In this case, the recording switch 52 remains on as long as the button is pressed. When the button is released, the recording switch 52 is turned off. By placing the button inside the upper case 13, the recording switch 52 can be protected from accidental operation simply by the upper case 13 being in the closed position. The upper case 13 functions as a shield that protects the recording switch 52 from objects other than the components of the inner case 11. In this way, unintentional audio recording (deletion of audio due to overwriting) can be prevented. Alternatively, the recording switch 52 may be linked to the conduction of the switch 36. As a result, when the recording switch 52 is operated with the upper case 13 in the open position, audio can be recorded in the memory 49.

[0098] The LED lamp 33, timer contact 39, timer 41, audio circuit 48, memory 49, and hold circuit 51 may be mounted on a common printed circuit board, for example. The first contact 37 of switch 36, the first blade 27 or second blade 28 of hinge 26, battery 35, microphone 46, speaker 47, etc. may be electrically connected to a wiring pattern on the printed circuit board by electrical wires such as vinyl-coated wires. The printed circuit board may be housed in the battery chamber 34, for example.

[0099] Next, the operation of the inner box 11 will be described. As shown in Figure 14, when the upper box body 13 is in the closed position, the lower edge of the upper box body 13 is aligned with the upper edge of the lower box body 12. The upper box body 13 covers the ring 21, hiding the diamond grains 23. An observer of the inner box 11 can see the appearance of the closed inner box 11. The diamond grains 23 are hidden from the observer's field of vision.

[0100] At this time, as shown in Figure 17, the intermediate region of the leaf spring 31 is farthest from the hinge pin 29. Therefore, the first contact 37 of the switch 36 is separated from the hinge 26, i.e., the second contact. The switch 36 is turned off. The LED lamp 33 is maintained in an unlit state. The operation of the audio circuit 48 is maintained in a stopped state.

[0101] When the observer moves the upper box body 13 around the hinge pin 29 toward the open position against the elastic force of the leaf spring 31, the lower end of the upper box body 13 moves away from the upper end of the lower box body 12. Visible light shines through the gap between the upper box body 13 and the lower box body 12 toward the diamond grains 23. The diamond grains 23 are gradually exposed. The diamond grains 23 are exposed to the visible light. Therefore, the diamond grains 23 emit a transparent glow.

[0102] When the opening angle of the upper box body 13 increases beyond the specified intermediate opening angle, the leaf spring 31 drives the upper box body 13 toward the open position. As a result, the upper box body 13 reaches the maximum opening position. The upper box body 13 is maintained in the maximum opening position according to the elastic force of the leaf spring 31. The flat surface 63 of the upper box body 13 is positioned higher the farther it is from the rotation axis. As shown in FIG. 15 , the observer can see the diamond grains 23 without being obstructed by the upper box body 13. The diamond grains 23 emit a transparent glow under visible light (natural light or electric light).

[0103] When the upper box body 13 reaches the open position, as shown in Figure 18, the elastic force of the leaf spring 31 presses the middle region of the leaf spring 31 against the hinge pin 29. In this way, the first contact 37 comes into contact with the hinge 26, i.e., the second contact. The switch 36 becomes conductive. When a first time has elapsed since the switch 36 became conductive (ON operation), the LED lamp 33 lights up. The LED lamp 33 begins irradiating the diamond grains 23 with ultraviolet light. The diamond grains 23 glow blue.

[0104] After the upper box body 13 is opened, the diamond grains 23 are observed to shine transparently for a while, and then the diamond grains 23 change color from transparent to blue. In this way, a light effect is created in response to the opening action of the upper box body 13. The leaf spring 31 exerts a driving force to position the upper box body 13 in the open position, so that the diamond grains 23 are prevented from starting to change color at a position intermediate between the closed position and the open position, and the observer can reliably witness the color change of the diamond grains 23.

[0105] After a second time has elapsed since the start of UV irradiation, the audio circuit 48 plays the recorded audio. For example, if it is a gift, the viewer can hear the giver's voice (e.g., "Will you marry me?" or "Let's be together from now on"). Because the audio playback is delayed from the visual effect of the diamond particles 23, the visual effect of the diamond particles 23 and the audio effect act on the viewer sequentially. The viewer can become aware of the visual effect of the diamond particles 23 before becoming aware of the auditory effect of the audio (including language processing). The audio effect is superimposed on the visual effect. The inventors have realized that, since humans cannot simultaneously perceive multiple senses, delaying the audio playback from the visual effect can enhance the synergistic effect of the visual and audio effects compared to when the audio effect is simultaneously progressing with the visual effect. This effect allows the viewer of the inner box 11 to experience a unique emotional experience.

[0106] When the switch 36 is turned off, the LED lamp 33 goes out, the audio circuit 48 stops supplying the audio signal, and the audio playback ends.

[0107] Prior to giving the gift, the giver's voice is pre-recorded on the inner box 11. To record, the upper box 13 is positioned in the open position. The giver presses the recording switch 52 and speaks into the microphone 46 (for example, "Will you marry me?" or "Let's be together from now on"). The audio circuit 48 operates in response to the conduction of the recording switch 52. The voice is converted into an audio signal by the microphone 46. The audio signal is stored in the memory 49. When the giver's finger is released from the recording switch 52 button, the voice recording ends.

[0108] In this case, the fabric material 18a of the cushioning material 18 is preferably colored black or dark blue. With such coloring, even if the light from the LED lamp 33 slightly contains visible light adjacent to the ultraviolet range, the visible light shining on the fabric material 18a will not be noticeable. The light from the LED lamp 33 can be excluded from the viewer's vision.

[0109] For example, consider a scenario in which a man and a woman visit a jewelry shop to purchase jewelry. The interior of the jewelry shop is filled with a scent specific to the jewelry shop and the brand. Here, the paper piece 108 of the photo frame 103 can contain an aromatic component that gives the impression of the scent inside the store. In this way, the scent inside the jewelry shop is associated with the inner box 11. When a ring 21 is purchased at the jewelry shop, the purchase scene can be linked to the scent. The scent is strongly remembered by the man and the woman.

[0110] When the inner box 11 is removed from the outer box 192, the scent of a jewelry shop wafts around the inner box 11. As shown in FIG. 22, the fragrant components of the paper slip 108 leak into the space 65 through the through-holes 125. The leaked fragrant components are dispersed upward from the space 65 toward the upper box body 13. A woman can enjoy the scent every time she removes the inner box 11. If the woman received the ring 21 as a gift, she will be reminded of the joy she felt when receiving the gift every time she approaches the inner box 11 at home. The inner box 11 can create an opportunity to remember the joy she felt when receiving the gift. A man can make a strong impression on a woman.

[0111] The inner box 11 can be displayed in the room as a source of fragrance. The woman can see the inner box 11 frequently in the room. In this way, the woman can frequently remember the joy she felt when she received the gift. The man's impression can be strongly imprinted on the woman.

[0112] The enclosure 64 functions to form a tray on the top surface of the upper box 13. Small items such as the ring 21 and key chains can be placed on the plate 111. The enclosure 64 functions to hold the small items on the plate 111. Because such a tray is used daily, women can see the inner box 11 frequently. The emotions felt when receiving a gift can be strongly imprinted in the woman's memory. The impression of the ring 21, the brand, and the jewelry store where the gift was purchased can be strongly imprinted on those who observe the inner box 11.

[0113] The plate 111 is fixed to the magnetic material 66 by the magnetic force of the magnet 124. Access to the outer periphery of the plate 111 is permitted through the space 65. The plate 111 can be easily lifted from the recess 61 by applying an external force to the outer periphery of the plate 111. The photo frame 103 can be easily removed from the upper box 13. As described above, the paper piece 108 can be removed from the photo frame 103, allowing the paper piece 108 to be replenished with fragrance components. Alternatively, the paper piece 108 may be replaced with one that contains sufficient fragrance components. In this way, a woman can enjoy the fragrance from the inner box 11 for an extended period of time. The space 65 can be narrowly extended along the left or right edge of the plate 111 and sized to accommodate, for example, a ring 21. In this case, a hard tool can be inserted into the space 65 to remove the photo frame 103.

[0114] For example, at a jewelry shop, the purchase scene can be captured with an instant camera. The purchase scene can then be developed on an instant film (photo PC). The plate 111 serves to hold the instant film in the recess 61. In this way, the photo PC can be easily attached to the inner box 11. The viewer can enjoy the image on the instant film through the transparent plate 102. The image can further enhance the emotion of receiving a gift.

[0115] The inner box 11 according to this embodiment produces the color change of the diamond grains 23 from transparent to fluorescent blue. The owner of the ring 21 uses the inner box 11 to enjoy the color change of the diamond grains 23. In this way, the inner box 11 continues to be owned together with the ring 21. The number of opportunities to take out the inner box 11 increases. The number of opportunities to see images on the instant film increases. With ordinary products, the packaging box is often discarded once the product begins to be used.

[0116] Similarly, the inner box 11 according to this embodiment plays back recorded audio. Because the audio effect is realized in this way, the owner of the ring 21 keeps the inner box 11 instead of throwing it away, and enjoys the audio effect. In this way, the inner box 11 continues to be owned together with the ring 21. The chances of taking out the inner box 11 increase even more. The chances of seeing images on instant film also increase even more.

[0117] In this embodiment, the plate 111 of the photo frame 103 is formed with a rectangular outline. The plate 111 can be sandwiched and held between the parallel walls facing each other within the recess 61. The photo frame 103 can be combined with the auxiliary member 104 to function as a photo stand 101, and can also be attached to the inner box 11 of the product packaging unit 191 to add the enjoyment of viewing photos on a PC within the product packaging unit 191. A photo frame 173 can be used in place of the photo frame 103 in the inner box 11 of the product packaging unit 191.

[0118] As shown in Figure 23, when assembling the photo frame 103, the board 111 may be formed with a through-hole 137 that extends from the paper piece chamber and opens to the surface of the board 111. The lower end of the through-hole 137 overlaps the paper piece 108, inside the outline of the paper piece 108. The fragrant components of the paper piece 108 can be diffused upward from the through-hole 137 toward the board 111, and the fragrance will waft around the inner box 11. Here, the magnet 124 can be embedded in the back surface of the board 111. The back surface of the board 111 can be trimmed to be flush.

[0119] FIG. 24 shows a schematic diagram of a light irradiation circuit according to a second example. The light irradiation circuit 43 includes an NPN transistor TR1 connected to a battery 35. The LED element of the LED lamp 33 is connected between the positive terminal of the battery 35 and the collector C of the NPN transistor TR1. A switch 36 and a first resistor R1 are connected in series between the positive terminal of the battery 35 and the base B of the NPN transistor TR1. A capacitor C1 is connected between the base B of the NPN transistor TR1 and the negative terminal of the battery 35. A second resistor R2 is connected in parallel with the first resistor R1 and capacitor C1. The emitter E of the NPN transistor TR1 is connected to the negative terminal of the battery 35. In this light irradiation circuit 43, when the switch 36 is conductive, the voltage applied to the base B of the NPN transistor TR1 gradually increases due to the action of the time constant circuits R1 and C1. When the voltage at the base B of the NPN transistor TR1 reaches a predetermined value during the voltage rise, current flows into the collector C. After a predetermined time has passed, the voltage applied to the base B of the NPN transistor TR1 remains constant. When the switch 36 is turned off, the charge in the capacitor C1 is discharged through the second resistor R2.

[0120] The hold circuit 51 of the audio playback unit 45 holds audio playback until a predetermined time (hereinafter referred to as the "third time") has elapsed after the ultraviolet light reaches its maximum intensity. The audio circuit 48 and the light irradiation circuit 43 share the same battery 35 and switch 36. The hold circuit 51 measures the time from when the switch 36 turns on until the ultraviolet light reaches its maximum intensity (hereinafter referred to as the "increase time") and the third time. The increase time can be determined by the voltage characteristics of the light irradiation circuit 43. The increase time corresponds to the time from when the switch 36 turns on until the voltage applied to the base B of the NPN transistor TR1 begins to be maintained at its maximum value. In this example, when the predetermined third time has elapsed since the ultraviolet light reached its maximum intensity, the audio circuit 48 retrieves an audio signal from the memory 49 and supplies it to the speaker 47.

[0121] The LED lamp 33, NPN transistor TR1, capacitor C1, first and second resistors R1 and R2, audio circuit 48, memory 49, and hold circuit 51 may be mounted on a common printed circuit board, for example. The first contact 37 of switch 36, the first blade 27 or second blade 28 of hinge 26, battery 35, microphone 46, speaker 47, etc. may be electrically connected to a wiring pattern on the printed circuit board by electrical wires such as vinyl-coated wires. The printed circuit board may be housed in the battery compartment 34, for example.

[0122] In the light irradiation circuit 43 according to the second example, after the upper box 13 reaches the open position and the switch 36 is turned on, a predetermined voltage is applied from the battery 35 to the base B of the NPN transistor TR1 after a first time has elapsed since the switch 36 was turned on. Current flows into the collector C of the NPN transistor TR1, and the LED lamp 33 begins to light up. Therefore, a viewer of the inner box 11 can observe the diamond grains 23 shining transparently for a while after the upper box 13 is opened.

[0123] The voltage applied to the base B of the NPN transistor TR1 gradually increases due to the action of the time constant circuits R1 and C1. The amount of current flowing through the LED lamp 33 gradually increases. The amount of ultraviolet light irradiated from the LED lamp 33 onto the diamond grains 23 increases. The diamond grains 23 gradually change color from transparent to blue. In this way, a light dramatic effect is created in response to the opening operation of the upper box body 13. The leaf spring 31 exerts a driving force to position the upper box body 13 in the open position, preventing the diamond grains 23 from beginning to change color at a position intermediate between the closed and open positions, allowing the observer to reliably witness the color change of the diamond grains 23.

[0124] After a second time has elapsed since the start of UV irradiation, i.e., a third time has elapsed since the diamond grains 23 began to glow blue at their maximum brightness, the audio circuit 48 plays back the recorded audio. For example, if it were a gift, the viewer could hear the giver's voice (e.g., "Will you marry me?" or "Let's be together from now on"). Because the audio playback is delayed from the visual effect of the diamond grains 23, the visual effect of the diamond grains 23 and the audio effect act sequentially on the viewer. The viewer can become aware of the visual effect of the diamond grains 23 before becoming aware of the auditory effect of the audio (including language processing). The audio effect is superimposed on the visual effect. The inventors have realized that, since humans cannot simultaneously perceive multiple senses, delaying the audio playback from the visual effect enhances the synergistic effect of the visual and audio effects compared to when the audio effect progresses simultaneously with the visual effect. This effect allows the viewer of the inner box 11 to experience a unique emotional experience.

[0125] When the switch 36 is turned off, the LED lamp 33 goes out, the audio circuit 48 stops supplying the audio signal, the audio playback ends, and the charge on the capacitor C1 is discharged through the second resistor R2.

[0126] The LED lamp 33 may be supported by the lower case 12 instead of the upper case 13. Alternatively, the diamond grains 23 may be mounted on a plurality of bases forming a necklace chain. The bases are formed from a metal material such as platinum or gold. One diamond grain 23 may be fixed to each base, or a plurality of diamond grains 23 may be fixed to each base. Alternatively, the diamond grains 23 may be arranged on a pendant, bracelet, earrings, ring, or anklet. The diamond grains may be of a uniform size, or large and small diamond grains may be mixed.

[0127] In the inner box 11 described above, the switch 36 may be a tactile switch having a plunger that is pressed down by the upper box 13 when the upper box 13 reaches the open position. The light irradiation circuit 38 according to the first specific example and the light irradiation circuit 43 according to the second specific example may be replaced with electronic circuits of other configurations as long as they achieve the same functions as those described above. Furthermore, the operation of the switch 36 may not only be linked to the upper box 13 being in the open position as described above, but may also be linked to the upper box 13 being in the closed position. Additionally, the functions of the light irradiation circuits 38 and 43, the audio circuit 48, and the hold circuit 51 may be realized by software executed by a microprocessor (MPU).

[0128] 102...transparent area (transparent plate), 103...photo frame, 107...first plane, 108...piece of paper, 109...second plane, 111...plate, 112...opaque film, 114...first holder, 115...second holder, 116...first rail, 121...second rail, 142...component of first holder (transparent plate), 143...photo frame, 146...component of first holder (frame), 151...first plane, 152...second plane, 153...plate, 156...second holder, 157...rail (slide rail), 173...photo frame, 174...first plane, 175...second plane, 176...plate, 177...first holder, 178...second holder, PC...photo.

Claims

1. A photo frame comprising: a long piece of paper containing an aromatic component; a plate defining a first plane on the front or back for receiving a photograph and a second plane on the back for receiving said piece of paper; a first holder attached to said plate and holding said photograph in line with the first plane; and a second holder attached freely detachably to said plate and holding said piece of paper in line with the second plane.

2. A photo frame as described in claim 1, characterized in that the plate material is a resin plate that defines the first plane and the second plane on the back surface and has a transparent area that covers at least the image of the photograph.

3. A photo frame as described in claim 2, wherein the second holder is a slider that is guided by a pair of rails extending linearly parallel to each other on both sides of the second plane and displaces between a first position where it holds the piece of paper in line with the second plane, and a second position where it is released from the second plane.

4. A photo frame as described in claim 3, wherein the plate is made of a transparent material, and an opaque film is formed on the surface of the plate to cover at least the edge of the photo.

5. A photo frame as described in claim 4, wherein the first holder is a slider that is guided by a pair of rails extending parallel to both sides of the first plane and displaced between a first position where it holds the photo in line with the first plane, and a second position where it is removed from the first plane.

6. A photo frame as described in claim 1, characterized in that the plate defines the first plane on the front surface and the second plane on the back surface, the first holder is placed on the front surface of the plate to sandwich and hold the photo between the plate and the first holder, and the second holder is placed on the back surface of the plate to sandwich and hold the piece of paper between the plate and the first holder.

7. The photo frame according to claim 6, wherein the piece of paper is positioned inside the outline of the photograph projected onto the back surface in a direction perpendicular to the front surface of the plate.

8. The photo frame according to claim 1, wherein said plate material is formed into a rectangular outline.

Images