Picture assembly

Abstract

The disclosed subject mater pertains to a picture frame assembly that includes a frame body defining a print-receiving area having a front support structure with a perimeter ledge for supporting at least a portion of a front face of a print and a sidewall structure providing lateral support for the print. A magnetic or ferromagnetic layer is positioned at a rear of the frame body, extends at least partially along a rear portion of the sidewall structure, and retains the print within the frame. In some embodiments, the layer defines a substantially planar rear surface and may be trimmed flush with or spaced inwardly from outer edges of the frame body. A wall-mountable display system and kit are also provided, including a wall-mountable element magnetically engageable with the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer to permit repositionable attachment to a supporting surface. Methods of assembling and manufacturing the picture frame assembly are further provided.

Description

[0001] PICTURE ASSEMBLY

[0002] TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

[0003] The disclosed subject matter generally relates to picture frames, and more particularly to a picture frame assembly that utilizes a magnetic or ferromagnetic elements.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] The following reference may be considered to be relevant as background art to the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0006] US Published Patent Application No. 2018 / 0368589 relates to a magnetic picture frame system to be hung to a supporting structure, the magnetic picture frame system comprising a frame body defining a picture receiving area and having a front face and a back face; a backing plate having an inner face engageable to the back face of the frame body to cover at least partially the picture receiving area, and an opposed outer face having a ferromagnetic area. The system further comprises a fixing apparatus having a magnetic portion magnetically removably couplable to the ferromagnetic area of the outer face of the backing plate; and a coupling portion couplable with the supporting structure.

[0007] It will be appreciated that acknowledgement of the above reference is not to be inferred as meaning that this is in any way relevant to the patentability of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0008] GENERAL DESCRIPTION

[0009] In accordance with the first aspect of the disclosed subject matter, there is provided a picture frame assembly, comprising: a frame body configured with a print-receiving area, the frame body including: a front support structure comprising a perimeter ledge configured to support at least a portion of the front face of the print; and a sidewall structure configured to provide lateral support for the print, the sidewall structure having a front portion extending from the front support structure and a rear portion; a magnetic or ferromagnetic layer positioned at therear of the frame body, the layer extending at least partially along the rear portion of the sidewall and configured to retain the print within the frame.

[0010] In accordance with another aspect ofthe disclosed subject matter, there is provided a wall-mountable display system comprising: the picture frame assembly in accordance with any aspect of the disclosed subject matter, and a wall-mountable element magnetically engageable with the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer to permit repositionable attachment to a supporting surface.

[0011] In accordance with a further aspect of the disclosed subject matter, there is provided a method of assembling a picture frame system, the method comprising: providing a frame body configured with a print-receiving area, the frame body including: a front support structure comprising a perimeter ledge configured for at least partially supporting a front face of the print; and a sidewall structure having a front portion extending from the front support structure to provide lateral support for a print and a back portion; positioning at least a print within the frame body, such that a portion of its front face is supported by the perimeter ledge; placing a magnetic / ferromagnetic layer at the rear of the frame body, wherein the layer extends at least partially along the back portion of the sidewall; securing the print within the frame body by retaining it with the magnetic / ferromagnetic layer therein; trimming the magnetic / ferromagnetic layer to align with or be spaced apart from the outer edges of the frame body to form a substantially planar back surface.

[0012] In accordance with yet another aspect of the disclosed subject matter, there is provided a method of manufacturing a picture frame assembly, the method comprising: forming a frame body configured with a print-receiving area, the frame body including: a front support structure comprising a perimeter ledge configured for at least partially supporting a front face of the print; and a sidewall structure having a front portion extending from the front support structure to provide lateral support for a print and a back portion; preparing a print or print-supporting material for positioning within the frame body; positioning the print within the frame body, such that at least a portion of its front face is supported by the perimeter ledge; placing a magnetic / ferromagnetic layer at the rear of the frame body, wherein the layer extends at least partially along the back portion of the sidewall; and trimming the magnetic / ferromagnetic layer to align with or be spaced apart from the outer edges of the frame body, ensuring a substantially planar back surface.Another aspect of the disclosed subject matter is directed to a wall mountable picture frame kit, comprising: a picture frame assembly comprising: a frame body configured with a printreceiving area, the frame body including: a front support structure comprising a perimeter ledge configured to support at least a portion of the front face of the print; and a sidewall structure configured to provide lateral support for the print, the sidewall structure having a front portion extending between the front support structure and a rear portion; a magnetic or ferromagnetic layer positioned at the rear of the frame body, the layer extending at least partially along the rear portion of the sidewall and configured to retain the print within the frame; and a wall-mountable element configured to be magnetically engageable with the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer of the picture frame assembly, the wall -mountable element being mountable on a support surface.

[0013] Another aspect of a disclosed subject matter is directed to a display assembly, comprising: a support structure configured to receive and support a display element, the support structure being one of: a frame body having a perimeter structure defining a display-receiving area, or a backing board devoid of a surrounding frame; and a magnetic or ferromagnetic layer positioned at a rear portion of the support structure and configured to secure the display element within the assembly.

[0014] Any one or more of the following features, designs and configurations can be applied to an assembly, kit and method according to the aspects of the present disclosure, separately or in various combinations thereof:

[0015] • the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer is configured to retain the print within a cavity and define a substantially planar rear surface of the frame body;

[0016] • the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer positioned at a rear opening of the frame body extends along at least a majority of the rear portion of the side wall structure;

[0017] • the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer is trimmed to align with outer edges of the frame body, thereby providing a substantially planar rear surface;

[0018] • the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer comprises a continuous metal plate forming substantially an entire rear surface of the frame body;

[0019] • the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer is trimmed to be spaced inwardly from outer edges of the frame body;

[0020] • the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer is trimmed substantially flush with outer edges of the frame body;• the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer is trimmed to be spaced approximately 0.5-2 mm from outer edges of the frame body;

[0021] • the print is retained without mechanical fasteners;

[0022] • the print is secured to or integrally formed with a backing board material configured to fit within the frame body;

[0023] • the picture frame assembly further comprises a backing board positioned within the frame body over the print, the backing board being dimensioned to fit snugly within the sidewall structure and to provide support for the print;

[0024] • the front support structure comprises discrete support sections rather than a continuous perimeter ledge;

[0025] • the sidewall structure includes reinforcing ribs or projections to enhance structural rigidity;

[0026] • the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer comprises a polymeric or elastomeric material embedded with magnetic or ferromagnetic particles;

[0027] • the print is pre-mounted onto a rigid board material before being positioned within the frame body;

[0028] • the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer is trimmed to leave a uniform gap of approximately 0.5-2 mm from outer edges of the frame body, forming a substantially planar rear surface;

[0029] • the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer extends substantially along a rear surface of the support structure and retains the display element without requiring mechanical fasteners;

[0030] • the support structure is one of:

[0031] o a frame body comprising a perimeter ledge or discrete support sections for supporting at least a portion of a front face of the display element; o a canvas stretcher frame with the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer covering a back cavity thereof; or

[0032] o a frameless backing board with the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer provided over the backing board to retain the display element;

[0033] • in the method of assembling, the method further comprises gluing the print onto a substrate layer selected from foam board, plastic sheet, or cardstock before positioning it within the frame body;

[0034] • in the method of assembling, the print is secured within the frame body without adhesive, using only the securing force of the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer;• in the method of assembling, the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer is trimmed to leave a gap of approximately 0.5-2 mm from outer edges of the frame body.

[0035] It will be appreciated that further aspects and various embodiments and features pertaining to these or other aspects of the present subject matter are discussed in the description and illustrated in the drawings and will become apparent hereinafter. Features from any of the disclosed embodiments may be used in combination with one another, without limitation. In addition, other features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art through consideration of the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings.

[0036] It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating an preferred embodiment of the invention, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosed subject matter.

[0037] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0038] In order to better understand the subject matter that is disclosed herein and to exemplify how it may be carried out in practice, non-limiting examples of embodiments will now be described, with reference to the accompanying drawings, where like elements are labeled similarly, and in which:

[0039] FIGs. 1A-1D are schematic illustrations of a picture frame assembly, depicting an assembly of the disclosed subject matter in accordance with an example thereof. FIG. 1A shows a perspective front view, FIG. IB shows a perspective back view, FIG. 1C provides an exploded isometric view, and FIG. ID presents an enlarged view of a comer of the assembly.

[0040] FIGs.2A-2B illustrate picture frame of Fig. 1A, where FIG. 2A provides a perspective cross-sectional view of the assembly in FIG. 1A taken along line A-A, and FIG. 2B presents an enlarged view of portion B for further detail.

[0041] FIGs. 3A-3D show schematic illustrations of an assembly of the disclosed subject matter in accordance with another example. FIG. 3 A presents a perspective front view, FIG.

[0042] 3B shows a perspective back view, FIG. 3C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the assembly in FIG. 3A taken along line C-C, and FIG. 3D provides an enlarged view of portion B.FIGs. 4A-4D illustrate schematic views of yet another example of the disclosed subject matter. FIG. 4A depicts a front view, FIG. 4B shows a back view, FIG. 4C presents a cross-sectional view of the assembly in FIG. 4B taken along line A-A, and FIG. 4D provides an enlarged view of portion B.

[0043] All drawings are schematic and may not be drawn to scale. Parts assigned a reference number in one figure may be assumed to represent the same parts in other figures, even if the reference number is omitted for brevity, unless they are specifically labeled with a different reference number.

[0044] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0045] The following description provides exemplary elements, structures, methods, processes, systems, techniques, instruction sequences, and applications. It is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure but serves to illustrate exemplary embodiments. Specific details are included to aid in the understanding of various embodiments. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the disclosed embodiments may be practiced with or without these details. Not all possible examples of methods, processes, protocols, or structures etc. are shown in detail. Furthermore, the operations described are not restricted to any particular order or sequence unless explicitly stated.

[0046] The features and advantages of the invention are described and illustrated by reference to exemplary embodiments, which are to be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The drawings are considered an integral part of this written description. However, the disclosure is not limited to these exemplary embodiments, as they demonstrate some potential non-limiting combinations of features. These features may exist independently or in various combinations with other features.

[0047] In the description of the embodiments, any references to direction or orientation (e.g., “front”, “back”, “top”, “bottom”, "upper," "lower," "horizontal," "vertical") are provided for convenience and ease of understanding and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Such terms should be interpreted in the context of the particular description or the correspondingfigures being discussed. These directional terms are meant solely for illustrative purposes and do not imply that the invention must be constructed or operated in any specific orientation.

[0048] Additionally, terms like "attached," "affixed," "connected," "coupled," and "interconnected" refer to relationships where structures are joined either directly or indirectly, through intermediate structures, whether the attachment is movable or rigid, unless specifically stated otherwise.

[0049] The expression "frame body" refers to a structural element defining a print-receiving area, in which a print and / or backing layer is intended to be positioned. The frame body provides lateral and front support for the print or any other frameable material and may include a perimeter ledge or discrete support sections to retain at least a portion of the front face of the print.

[0050] The expression "magnetic" refers to any material or object that produces a magnetic field and exerts an attractive force on ferromagnetic materials. The magnetic layer may be composed of a polymer, resin, or any other suitable substance embedded with magnetic particles or elements. When utilized as a magnetic layer, it may further include additional components or structural layers to enhance rigidity, flexibility, or other mechanical properties. The expression "ferromagnetic" refers to materials that are capable of being attracted to a magnetic field. Ferromagnetic materials may include, but are not limited to, iron, steel, nickel, cobalt, and ferromagnetic alloys thereof. Certain stainless steels and other metal alloys may also exhibit ferromagnetic properties depending on composition and treatment.

[0051] The ferromagnetic layer in the assemblies discussed herein may be made of or include such materials to enable magnetic engagement.

[0052] For example, ferromagnetic layer can be a polymer embedded with ferromagnetic particles, e.g. PVC, rubber, silicone, TPU etc. Ferromagnetic layer can further comprise a layer for enhancing structural rigidity, it can be rigid or flexible, e.g. the additional layer can be PET, PP and the like, the layer can also be any other suitable material with or without an underlying substrate, including materials such as mesh, non-woven, other compositions, etc.

[0053] In the present disclosure the term "magnetic / ferromagnetic layer" refers to either one of the magnetic layer or ferromagnetic layer, that can magnetically engage respective ferromagnetic or magnetic elements.The expression "frameable material" is used interchangeably with the term print and refers to any material intended for display within the picture frame assembly. Frameable material may include, but is not limited to, artwork, photographs, paintings, awards, calendars, certificates, posters, or similar display items. In some embodiments, the frameable material may be secured to or integrally formed with a backing board before placement in the frame body.

[0054] Referring to the figures, Figs. 1A-1D illustrate a picture frame assembly generally designated (100) comprising a frame body (110) defining a print-receiving area (120). The frame body (110) includes a front support structure (130) comprising a perimeter ledge or discrete support sections (135) (seen best in Figs.2A and 2B) for supporting the front face of a print (140). The sidewall structure (1 0) extends rearwardly from the front support structure (130) and includes a front portion (155) and a rear portion (160). It will be appreciated that the perimeter ledge can be continuous or formed from discrete support sections (not shown). The frame body in this example has an L-shaped configuration when seen in a cross-section (See Fig. 2A and 2B), such that the internal measures of the short leg of the L shape constitutes the perimeter ledge 135 and the long leg of the L shape constitutes the sidewall structure 150. It will be appreciated that the legs of the L shape can be of identical length or have a reversed configuration, such that the long leg constitutes the ledge and the short leg constitutes the sidewall structure.

[0055] In the present description, the term “front” refers to a portion of the frame body (110) facing the user when the picture frame assembly (100) is mounted. The term “back” refers to an opposite portion of the frame body ( 110), for example when mounted, facing a supporting surface to which the picture frame assembly (100) is attached.

[0056] The front face of the frame body (110) may have one or more aesthetic features, such as a pattern, molding, motif, color, texture, trims, or other decorative elements.

[0057] A magnetic or ferromagnetic layer (170) is positioned at the rear of the frame body (110) and extends at least partially along the rear portion (160) of the sidewall structure (150). This layer (170) is configured to secure the print (140) within the frame even when used without additional fasteners or adhesives. In some embodiments, the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer (170) is trimmed to align with the outer edges of the frame body (110) to provide a substantially planar fully covered back surface. In alternative embodiments, the layer (170) is trimmed to be spaced apart from the outer edges (see Fig. ID), creating a substantially planar back surface. The spaced-apart trimming can be minimal and be spaced away from the edge so as not to extendbeyond the outer perimeter of the back side of the frame. The layer (170) can be trimmed symmetrically so as to create a trimming border of equal width from, the edge of the frame. Alternatively, it can extend flush with the edge of the back side of the frame or extend at varying distance from any of its edges.

[0058] It will be appreciated that while the layer is described in certain embodiments as extending at least partially along the rear portion of the sidewall structure, in other embodiments the layer may extend continuously across substantially the entire rear opening or rear surface of the support structure.

[0059] The substantially planar rear surface formed by the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer may enhance stability when the assembly is mounted against a supporting surface by reducing localized protrusions and pressure points. This configuration may also minimize surface scratching and improve flush engagement with a wall or other mounting surface.

[0060] In one embodiment seen in Fig. 1A, the print (140) is pre-mounted onto a backing board (180), which fits snugly within the sidewall structure (150). The height of the sidewall H being substantially equal to the thickness of the frameable material H', e.g., the print, or the print with the backing board etc. It will be appreciated that other elements may be further provided, such as protective glass or other transparent or translucent elements, a mat (Passepartout), multiple layers of prints, etc. In some examples rabbets may be provided (now shown) over the perimeter ledge (135) to allow support for the various layers received within the support structure.

[0061] The backing board (180) may be made of any suitable material, including foam board, plastic sheet, cardboard, cardstock, wood, paper, composite materials, or any combination thereof. The backing board (180) is configured to provide additional structural support to the print (140) and may also enhance torsional rigidity and resistance to bending for the entire assembly.

[0062] In some embodiments, the backing board (180) and the print (140) are separate and not physically attached, allowing the print to be placed freely within the frame while still being supported by the backing board. In other embodiments, the board may be attached to the print using an adhesive, ensuring secure fixation. In another embodiment, the print (140) is directly printed onto the backing board (180), integrating the two elements into a single structure. Additionally, the print (140) may be secured mechanically, such as by an interlocking structure within the frame body. The frame body (110) may be formed from various materials, includingbut not limited to, polymers, wood, aluminum, or stainless steel. The frame body (110) may be manufactured using molding, machining, or other fabrication processes. Alternatively, the frame body (110) may be assembled from multiple frame members coupled together using adhesives, fasteners such as screws or nails, or by utilizing magnetic attachment.

[0063] It will be appreciated that size, shape, dimensions and other characteristics of the frame and its respective elements may vary as desired.

[0064] In some embodiments, the picture frame assembly ( 100) may be part of a kit that facilitates magnetic wall mounting (not shown). The kit includes a wall -mountable element configured to be magnetically engageable with the magnetic / ferromagnetic layer (170) positioned at the rear of the frame body (110). This magnetic engagement allows for secure attachment of the frame to a support surface, such as a wall, without the need for screws, hooks, or adhesive strips.

[0065] The wall-mountable element may include a magnetic element, which interacts with the ferromagnetic layer (170) of the frame to create a secure and repositionable coupling. The wall-mountable element can be fixed to the support surface using adhesive e.g. repositionable adhesive, screws, or an interlocking mounting mechanism. In some embodiments, the wall-mountable element includes a padding layer, such as silicone TPU, rubber, or foam, to prevent damage to the support surface and enhance stability.

[0066] This configuration allows the frame assembly (100) to be easily removed and repositioned without damaging the mounting surface. The magnetic engagement mechanism is designed to provide sufficient holding force to keep the frame securely in place while allowing adjustments along the vertical and horizontal axes.

[0067] As used herein, the term "wall-mountable element" refers to a separate component that facilitates mounting of the picture frame assembly to a support surface via magnetic coupling. The wall-mountable element may include a magnetic or ferromagnetic surface, allowing it to engage with the magnetic / ferromagnetic layer (170) of the frame assembly respectively (i.e. when the wall mountable element is magnetic, the layer 170 is ferromagnetic, and vice versa).

[0068] In another embodiment, the picture frame assembly (100) may include a canvas stretched over a frame (or bars), wherein a canvas stretcher frame is positioned within the frame body (110) (not shown). The magnetic or ferromagnetic layer (170) in this embodiment can be provided to cover a substantial portion of the back cavity of the canvas frame and extend slightly inward fromthe edge of the frame body (110). This configuration secures the canvas within the frame body while ensuring a smooth back surface, covering both the back side of the frame and that of the canvas secured therein. The ferromagnetic layer (170) may be pre-trimmed to extend just short of the full edge or trimmed during production to achieve the desired fit. The canvas stretcher frame may rest on the perimeter ledge (135) or be positioned within the sidewall structure of the frame, where it may be mechanically engaged depending on the dimensions and desired mounting configuration.

[0069] As used herein, a ‘print-receiving area’ may define a cavity and / or rear opening configured to receive at least a print.

[0070] In yet another embodiment, as illustrated in Figs. 3A-3D, the picture frame assembly (300) may be configured without a surrounding frame, where a canvas board (380) (stretched canvas over a frame or bars) is provided independently. In this configuration, the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer (370) is applied to the back of the canvas stretcher frame, covering a substantial portion of its back surface while extending slightly inward toward its edges. This configuration allows the canvas board (380) to engage with a magnetically compatible wall-mounted element. The ferromagnetic layer (370) may be pre-trimmed or adjusted during production to ensure it does not extend beyond the edges of the canvas. These embodiments enable repositionability and tool-free mounting, while ensuring a clean, uninterrupted display and protecting the mounted surface from potential scratches or damage caused by the edges of the frame or stretched canvas.

[0071] Additionally, in another frameless embodiment (400) shown in Figs. 4A-4D, the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer (470) is positioned directly over a backing board or foam board (480) without the need for a frame body. The ferromagnetic layer (470) covers a substantial portion of the back of the backing board (480), extending slightly inward toward its edge. This ensures that the backing board remains securely positioned while maintaining a uniform appearance from the back. As with other embodiments, the ferromagnetic layer (470) may be pre-trimmed or trimmed during production to match the final dimensions. This embodiment allows for a minimalist, sleek aesthetic with the option for repositionable wall mounting.

[0072] This embodiment allows for a minimalist, sleek aesthetic with the option for repositionable wall mounting.The magnetic or ferromagnetic layer (170, 370, 470), in any of the disclosed embodiments, may be secured to the rear portion of the frame body (110), canvas stretcher frame, or backing board (480) using various attachment methods. The method of attachment may depend on factors such as the material composition of the layer (170, 370, 470), the desired structural integrity, and the ease of assembly and / or repositionability.

[0073] In certain embodiments, the print is retained within the frame body without mechanical fasteners such as clips, tabs, or screws.

[0074] In some embodiments, the layer (170, 370, 470) may be adhered to the rear surface using an adhesive, which may include but is not limited to: pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) for removable or repositionable applications; permanent adhesives such as epoxy, acrylic, or industrial bonding agents for long-term securement; or heat-activated or solvent-based adhesives for enhanced durability.

[0075] Alternatively, the layer (170, 370, 470) may be mechanically attached using suitable mechanisms, including but not limited to fasteners such as screws, clips, staples, or rivets, securing it to the rear portion of the frame body (110), stretcher frame, or backing board (180); interlocking or snap-fit mechanisms, where the layer (170, 370, 470) is configured with corresponding grooves, tabs, or other engagement features for secure placement; Overmolding or encapsulation, wherein the frame body ( 110) or backing board ( 180) is molded around or with the layer (170, 370, 470), embedding it as part of the structure.

[0076] Additionally, the layer (170, 370, 470) may be integrated as a laminated structure e.g. by being: co-extruded with the backing material; bonded using ultrasonic welding or heat-sealing techniques; or embedded within or layered over another structural substrate, such as a polymeric sheet, composite panel, or a reinforced textile layer.

[0077] In cases where repositionability is desired, the layer (170, 370, 470) may be attached using non-permanent means, such as: magnetic attraction; hook-and-loop fasteners; or mechanical clamping or pressure-fit engagement within the frame structure.

[0078] These various attachment configurations allow for flexibility in assembly, removability for print replacement, and adaptability across different frame constructions. The magnetic or ferromagnetic layer may be provided in the form of a flexible sheet, rigid plate, semi-rigid panel, laminated structure, overmolded insert, or integrally formed rear member of the support structure.The embodiments discussed herein as well as those envisioned enable repositionability and tool-free mounting while ensuring a clean, uninterrupted display and back surfaces, further protecting the mounted surfaces from scratches or damage that might be caused by edges of the frames or canvases stretched on frames.

[0079] The assembly process in one example includes placing the print (140) within the frame body (110) so that at least a portion of its front face is supported by the perimeter ledge (135), positioning the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer (170) at the rear of the frame, and securing the print (140) within the frame body (110) using the retaining force of the layer (170). The layer (170) may then be trimmed to align with or be spaced apart from the frame edges to ensure a planar or recessed back surface. In accordance with another example, the layer (170) can be trimmed in advance and positioned over the edges.

[0080] The manufacturing process involves providing the frame body (110) with the printreceiving area (120), preparing the print (140) for positioning within the frame, placing the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer (170) at the rear of the frame body (110), and either trimming the layer (170) to ensure a substantially planar back surface or providing a pre-trimmed layer (170) to match the frame dimensions.

[0081] As disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, the rear surface of the assembly is formed substantially entirely by a metallic or ferromagnetic plate defining a continuous metal back surface. In such embodiments, the plate may function both as the retention layer and as a structural reinforcement member for the support structure.

[0082] While various aspects and embodiments are being disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments, various additions, modifications, and substitutions may be made without departing from the spirit of the disclosed invention and are being contemplated. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting.

[0083] In particular, it will be clear to those skilled in the art that the presently disclosed subject matter may be embodied in other forms, structures, arrangements, proportions, sizes, and with other elements, materials, and components, without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. Additionally, numerous variations in the methods and processes described herein may be made within the scope of the present disclosure. One skilled in the art will further appreciate that the embodiments may be used with many modifications of structure, arrangement,proportions, sizes, materials, and components, depending on specific environments and operational requirements, without departing from the principles described herein.

[0084] The presently disclosed embodiments are therefore to be considered illustrative and not restrictive. The appended claims should be construed broadly to include other variants and embodiments of the disclosure, which may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and range of equivalents.

Claims

1. CLAIMSWhat is Claimed is:

1. A picture frame assembly, comprising:a frame body configured with a print-receiving area, the frame body including:a front support structure comprising a perimeter ledge configured to support at least a portion of the front face of the print; anda sidewall structure configured to provide lateral support for the print, the sidewall structure having a front portion extending from the front support structure and a rear portion;a magnetic or ferromagnetic layer positioned at the rear of the frame body, the layer extending at least partially along the rear portion of the sidewall and configured to retain the print within the frame.

2. The picture frame assembly of claim 1, wherein the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer is configured to retain the print within the cavity and define a substantially planar rear surface of the frame body.

3. The picture frame assembly of claim 1, wherein the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer positioned at the rear opening of the frame body is configured to extend along at least a majority of the rear portion of the sidewall structure.

4. The picture frame assembly of claim 1, wherein the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer is trimmed to align with the outer edges of the frame, providing a substantially planar back surface.

5. The picture frame assembly of claim 1, wherein the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer comprises a continuous metal plate forming substantially an entire rear surface of the frame body.

6. The picture frame assembly of claim 1, wherein the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer is trimmed to be spaced inwardly from outer edges of the frame body.

7. The picture frame assembly of claim 1, wherein the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer is trimmed substantially flush with outer edges of the frame body.

8. The picture frame assembly of claim 1, wherein the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer is trimmed to be spaced approximately 0.5 -2 mm from the outer edges of the frame body.

9. The picture frame assembly of claim 1, wherein the print is retained without mechanical fasteners.

10. The picture frame assembly of claim 1, wherein the print is secured to or integrally formed with a backing board material, the backing board being configured to fit within the frame body.

11. The picture frame assembly of claim 1, further comprising a backing board positioned within the frame body over the print, wherein the backing board is dimensioned to fit snugly within the sidewall structure and to provide support for the print.

12. The picture frame assembly of claim 1, wherein the front support structure comprises discrete support sections rather than a continuous perimeter ledge.

13. The picture frame assembly of claim 1, wherein the sidewall structure includes reinforcing ribs or projections to enhance structural rigidity.

14. The picture frame assembly of claim 1, wherein the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer comprises a polymeric or elastomeric material embedded with magnetic or ferromagnetic particles.

15. A wall-mountable display system comprising:the picture frame assembly in accordance with any one of the previous claims, and a wall-mountable element magnetically engageable with the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer to permit repositionable attachment to a supporting surface.

16. A method of assembling a picture frame system, the method comprising:providing a frame body configured with a print-receiving area, the frame body including:a front support structure comprising a perimeter ledge configured for at least partially supporting a front face of the print; anda sidewall structure having a front portion extending from the front support structure to provide lateral support for a print and a back portion;positioning at least a print within the frame body, such that a portion of its front face is supported by the perimeter ledge;placing a magnetic / ferromagnetic layer at the rear of the frame body, wherein the layer extends at least partially along the back portion of the sidewall;securing the print within the frame body by retaining it with the magnetic / ferromagnetic layer therein;trimming the magnetic / ferromagnetic layer to align with or be spaced apart from the outer edges of the frame body to form a substantially planar back surface.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising gluing the print onto a substrate layer selected from at least foam board, plastic sheet, or cardstock before positioning it within the frame body.

18. The method of claim 16, wherein the print is secured within the frame body without adhesive, using only the securing force of the magnetic / ferromagnetic layer.

19. The method of claim 16, wherein the magnetic / ferromagnetic layer is trimmed to leave a gap of approximately 0.5-2 mm from the outer edges of the frame body.

20. A method of manufacturing a picture frame assembly, the method comprising:forming a frame body configured with a print-receiving area, the frame body including:a front support structure comprising a perimeter ledge configured for at least partially supporting a front face of the print; anda sidewall structure having a front portion extending from the front support structure to provide lateral support for a print and a back portion;preparing a print or print-supporting material for positioning within the frame body;positioning the print within the frame body, such that at least a portion of its front face is supported by the perimeter ledge;placing a magnetic / ferromagnetic layer at the rear of the frame body, wherein the layer extends at least partially along the back portion of the sidewall; andtrimming the magnetic / ferromagnetic layer to align with or be spaced apart from the outer edges of the frame body, ensuring a substantially planar back surface.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein the print is pre-mounted onto a rigid board material before being positioned within the frame body.

22. The method of claim 20, wherein the magnetic / ferromagnetic layer is trimmed to leave a uniform gap of approximately 0.5-2 mm from the outer edges of the frame body, forming a substantially planar back surface.

23. A wall mountable picture frame kit, comprising:a picture frame assembly comprising:a frame body configured with a print-receiving area, the frame body including:a front support structure comprising a perimeter ledge configured to support at least a portion of the front face of the print; anda sidewall structure configured to provide lateral support for the print, the sidewall structure having a front portion extending between the front support structure and a rear portion;a magnetic or ferromagnetic layer positioned at the rear of the frame body, the layer extending at least partially along the rear portion of the sidewall and configured to retain the print within the frame; anda wall-mountable element configured to be magnetically engageable with the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer of the picture frame assembly, the wall-mountable element being mountable on a support surface.

24. A display assembly, comprising:a support structure configured to receive and support a display element, the support structure being one of:a frame body having a perimeter structure defining a display-receiving area, or a backing board devoid of a surrounding frame; anda magnetic or ferromagnetic layer positioned at a rear portion of the support structure and configured to secure the display element within the assembly.

25. The assembly of Claim 24, wherein the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer extends substantially along the rear surface of the support structure and is configured to retain the display element without requiring mechanical fasteners.

26. The assembly of Claim 24, wherein the support structure is one of:a frame body comprising a perimeter ledge or discrete support sections for supporting at least a portion of a front face of the display element;a canvas stretcher frame, with the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer provided to cover a back cavity of the canvas stretcher frame; ora frame less backing board, where the magnetic or ferromagnetic layer is provided over the backing board to retain the display element.

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