US20060076860A1 - Device and method for covering and exposing an object - Google Patents
Device and method for covering and exposing an object Download PDFInfo
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- US20060076860A1 US20060076860A1 US11/288,566 US28856605A US2006076860A1 US 20060076860 A1 US20060076860 A1 US 20060076860A1 US 28856605 A US28856605 A US 28856605A US 2006076860 A1 US2006076860 A1 US 2006076860A1
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- Prior art keywords
- cover
- rail
- support structure
- attached
- moving
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B51/00—Cabinets with means for moving compartments up and down
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B81/00—Cabinets or racks specially adapted for other particular purposes, e.g. for storing guns or skis
- A47B81/06—Furniture aspects of radio, television, gramophone, or record cabinets
- A47B81/061—Furniture aspects of radio, television, gramophone, or record cabinets the device supports being adjustable
- A47B81/064—Furniture aspects of radio, television, gramophone, or record cabinets the device supports being adjustable vertically
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Abstract
A device for covering and exposing an object, such as a flat panel display device, can include a support structure movably attached to a display surface adjacent the object displayed on the display surface. A cover is attached to the support structure. The device includes a means for moving the support structure and cover for selectively covering and exposing the object. The means for moving the support structure and cover may be manually or electronically controlled, either directly or by remote control.
Description
- This application is a Continuation-in-Part application of, and claims priority to, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/234,659, filed on Sep. 22, 2005, which is a Continuation-in-Part application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/547,851, filed on Sep. 1, 2005, which is a National Stage application of International App. No. PCT/EP2005/003261, filed Mar. 29, 2005, which claims priority to Swiss Patent App. No. 00649/04, filed Apr. 14, 2004, each of which prior applications is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
- The present invention relates to a device and method for covering and exposing an object. Embodiments of the present invention are useful for selectively covering and exposing flat objects, such as a flat panel display device, attached to or recessed in a wall.
- Some individuals invest a significant amount of effort and money in decorating their home in a particular style, including furniture, artwork, wall coverings, fixtures, and so forth. Some businesses and retail stores similarly invest in a particular decor that meets the needs or desires of their owners and customers. However, homes and businesses employ a wide variety of devices, fixtures, and structures that may be inconsistent with a desired decor or style. Examples of such items include electrical control panels, television sets, wall safes, medicine cabinets, valuable items of artwork, access openings, mechanical systems, structural components and the like. When such items interfere with a desired decor, it may be necessary to disguise or conceal them in some fashion, or endure an item that is unappealing as compared to the general decor of a room or space. However, concealment can be problematic in that it can interfere with access when needed. It can also be cumbersome to reveal and conceal such items from time to time. Conventional coverings have been used for such concealment. A hinged painting in front of a wall safe is one example. However such an approach is only useful when access is necessary for a short period of time, because the painting is unappealing when left in the “open” position.
- Flat panel display devices for displaying electronically stored information of all kinds are often used today in public locations, such as in transportation stations, airports, and museums, in business premises, and in private rooms. The distribution of such flat panel display devices has been increasing rapidly. Flat panel display devices of this type provide a favorable picture quality and are lightweight and can easily be mounted on a wall or another, portable structure. In a sales room or exhibition room, such as a gallery or a museum, with a large amount of customers or visitors, such flat panel display devices provide more meaningful and up-to-date information and leave a more permanent impression than printed informational material. Freeze images, video clips, or computer animations also enable a dynamic marketing and visual messages whose effect is by far superior to a presentation of mere printed matter.
- In conferences or meetings, the flat panel display devices provide a presentation with a professional touch. A flat panel display device can be mounted to almost any audiovisual device within a few seconds, for example, to a laptop computer or a DVD player.
- The high resolution monitors usually have standard width-to-height ratios of 16:9, wherein the diagonal may vary, for example, from 82 cm to 127 cm. Such flat monitors may be mounted on a wall either in landscape format or in portrait format, or they may be placed at other desired positions. The size of these devices can vary. Custom flat panel display devices may have sizes of several square meters. Commercially available models have sizes similar to those of other objects that can be displayed on a wall, including, for example, oil paintings, graphics, maps, and tapestries.
- Such flat panel display devices have a disadvantage. There are situations in which electronic messages are not be shown on the display devices. Time periods frequently occur during which the electronic screen is not used or does not fit in with the decor of a particular function. Flat panel display devices that are used for multimedia purposes in a gallery or a museum may not fit the environment when not in use, for example, when displayed next to oil paintings or other pieces of art. During these “dead times” such flat panel display devices often do not match the overall decor, aesthetics, or atmosphere of a room. Flat panel display devices occupy space on the wall even at times they are not in use, and they are normally not dismounted. The wall surface occupied by such mounted objects therefore lies idle. In public places, in particular, it is not economical or efficient to have unused surface or an unused display device. Moreover, the space on public walls, in galleries and museums, as well as on walls in private homes, is often limited. A flat panel display device or other object mounted on a wall, such as a picture, painting, photo, poster, or hangings of different materials such as fabric, paper, glass wood, plastics, or stone, occupy a certain portion of the wall surface that could otherwise be used by other wall claddings. As such, mounted objects on a wall can compete with alternative hangings and wall covers for wall space. Thus, displaying a flat panel display device on a wall decreases the flexibility of use of the wall space.
- A conventional approach to managing the look of flat panel display devices is to retract or hide the display device when not in use. For example, a cover unit for a flat panel video display has been used to deploy a flexible cover over the display. Such a device is similar to a window shade that is lowered and raised in front of a television screen. While such an approach may be effective at covering a television, it lacks a degree of elegance that is often desired in a refined decor environment. Thus, there is a need for a device and method for covering and exposing an object in a convenient, decorative manner.
- Thus, it is desirable to provide a device and method for selectively covering and exposing an object, such as a flat panel display device, that allows flexible use of wall space.
- The present invention provides embodiments of a device and method for covering and exposing an object. In an embodiment, the device includes a support structure movably attached to a display surface adjacent an object displayed on the display surface, such as a wall. A cover is attached to the support structure. The device includes a means for moving the support structure and cover for selectively covering and exposing the object.
- In one embodiment, the support structure includes a U-shaped holder having a base leg, a carrier leg, and a connector leg extending between and connecting the base leg and the carrier leg. The base leg is movably attached to the display surface, and the cover is movably attached to the carrier leg. The base leg is movably supported on the display surface by connector elements, and the cover is movably supported on the carrier leg by connector elements. The device may include two or more movable support structures and a connector between the two movable support structures.
- In another embodiment, the support structure can include an inner frame having a guide element along each side of the inner frame. An outer frame has a guide element along each side of the outer frame, and each outer frame guide element is movably engagable with one of the inner frame guide elements. The cover is attached to the outer frame. An electric motor is attached to the inner frame and adapted to move the outer frame and cover relative to the inner frame. In an embodiment, the electric motor includes a toothed gear. The outer frame guide element adjacent the toothed gear includes a toothed rack engaged with the toothed gear. Movement of the outer frame relative to the inner frame is effected by movement of the toothed rack by the electric motor and toothed gear. In an embodiment, the device includes a cable attached to the electric motor and to the outer frame. The cable is windable and unwindable by the electric motor such that movement of the outer frame relative to the inner frame is effected by winding and unwinding the cable by the electric motor.
- In another embodiment, the support structure may comprise a rail carriage attached to the display surface and a rail movably engaged with the rail carriage. A threaded rod can be attached to the rail and operably engaged with the rail carriage. A cover can be attached to the rail so that the rail and the cover can be moved to selectively cover and expose an object on, or recessed in, a display surface. An electric motor can be connected to the threaded rod for moving the threaded rod, the rail, and the cover relative to the rail carriage. The rail carriage can include a rod guide channel for guiding movement of the threaded rod relative to the rail carriage and a rail guide channel for guiding movement of the rail relative to the rail carriage.
- In another embodiment, a notched belt can be operably engaged with the rail and with the rail carriage. In this manner, a cover can be attached to the rail so that the rail and the cover can be moved to selectively cover and expose an object on, or recessed in, a display surface. An electric motor can be connected to the notched belt for moving the notched belt, the rail, and the cover relative to the rail carriage. In this embodiment, the rail carriage can include a belt guide channel for guiding movement of the notched belt relative to the rail carriage and a rail guide channel for guiding movement of the rail relative to the rail carriage.
- In another embodiment, the cover comprises a piece of furniture, the object comprises a flat panel display device, and the flat panel display device is movable out of and into the furniture. The flat panel display device can be moved out of and into the furniture by means of rotating a threaded rod operably connected to the flat panel display device. Alternatively, the flat panel display device can be moved out of and into the furniture by a telescopic means.
- The displayed object can be recessed into the display surface. The object can be a flat panel display device, a picture, or other object desired to be displayed on a display surface, or an object for which displaying is not desired, such as an air conditioning system component. Embodiments of the present invention provide means for covering and exposing any of such objects.
- In an embodiment, the means for moving the support structure and cover can be manually operable. Alternatively, the means for moving the support structure and cover can include an electric motor. The means for moving the support structure and cover can be operated by a remote control device.
- An embodiment of the present invention may include a method for selectively covering and exposing an object displayed on a display surface. In one illustrative embodiment of a method, a support structure can be attached to the display surface adjacent the object, and the support structure is movable relative to the display surface. A cover can be attached to the support structure, and the support structure and cover can be moved to selectively cover and expose the object. The support structure may comprise a U-shaped holder having a base leg movably attached to the display surface, a carrier leg for movably attaching the cover, and a connector leg extending between and connecting the base leg and the carrier leg. Alternatively, the support structure may comprise an inner frame having a guide element along each side of the inner frame and an outer frame having a guide element along each side of the outer frame. Each outer frame guide element is movably engagable with one of the inner frame guide elements. When the cover is attached to the outer frame, the outer frame and cover can be moved relative to the inner frame.
- In another embodiment of a method, a rail carriage can be attached to a display surface adjacent an object displayed on, or recessed in, the display surface. A rail is movably engaged with the rail carriage. A threaded rod can be attached to the rail and operably engaged with the rail carriage. The cover can be attached to the rail and the threaded rod, the rail, and the cover moved relative to the rail carriage to selectively cover and expose the object. In an alternative embodiment of a method, a notched belt can be operably engaged with the rail and with the rail carriage such that the notched belt, the rail, and the cover can be moved relative to the rail carriage to selectively cover and expose the object.
- In an embodiment of a method, a U-shaped structure, an outer frame, or a rail having a threaded rod or a notched belt each can be moved by means of an electric motor. The motor, and thus movement of the cover, can be actuated by means of a remote control device. In an embodiment of a method, the device may be configured so that the cover can be moved in a plurality of directions relative to the object.
- Features of a device and method for covering and exposing an object of the present invention may be accomplished singularly, or in combination, in one or more of the embodiments of the present invention. As will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art, the present invention has wide utility in a number of applications as illustrated by the variety of features and advantages discussed below.
- Embodiments of a device and method for covering and exposing an object of the present invention advantageously provide a means for conveniently covering an object displayed on or in a wall when the object is not in use or not desired to be exposed.
- Another advantage is that the present invention provides for flexible use of wall space.
- Another advantage is that the present invention provides a device and method for covering and exposing multiple objects in a defined space in which a predetermined pattern of covers can be arranged for a particular aesthetic effect.
- As will be realized by those of skill in the art, many different embodiments of a device and method for covering and exposing an object according to the present invention are possible. Additional uses, objects, advantages, and novel features of the invention are set forth in the detailed description that follows and will become more apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination of the following or by practice of the invention.
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FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a movable support structure having a “U” shape and roller connector elements for movably connecting the support structure to a display surface and for movably connecting a cover to the support structure in an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a movable support structure having a “U” shape and slide rail connector elements for movably connecting the support structure to a display surface and for movably connecting a cover to the support structure in an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 3 is a top view of a movable support structure having a “U” shape attached to a display surface and a cover attached to the support structure, the support structure and cover positioned adjacent a flat panel display device attached to the display surface in an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 4 is a side view of two movable support structures each having a “U” shape, attached to a display surface, and positioned adjacent a flat panel display device attached to the display surface, a single cover attached to both of the support structures, and a connector connecting the two support structures in an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 5 is a front view of a cover covering an object attached to a display surface in an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 6 is a front view of the cover inFIG. 5 , moved laterally to partially expose the object attached to the display surface in an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 7 is a front view of the cover inFIGS. 4 and 5 , moved laterally farther than inFIG. 4 , to fully expose the object attached to the display surface in an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 8 is a top view of a movable support structure having a “U” shape attached to a display surface and a cover attached to the support structure, the support structure and cover positioned adjacent a flat panel display device and covering the flat panel display device in an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 9 is a top view of the movable support structure, cover, and flat panel display device inFIG. 8 , the support structure and cover each moved laterally to expose the flat panel display device in an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 10 is a top view of a movable support structure having a “U” shape and a hinge between each leg of the support structure, the support structure attached to a display surface and a cover attached to the support structure, the support structure and cover positioned adjacent a flat panel display device and covering the flat panel display device in an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 11 is a top view of the movable support structure, cover, and flat panel display device inFIG. 10 , the support structure and cover each moved laterally to expose the flat panel display device in an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 12 is a top view of two movable support structures each having a “U” shape, each attached to a display surface and positioned adjacent a flat panel display device attached to the display surface, and a cover attached to each of the support structures in an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 13 is a side view of a movable support structure having a “U” shape movably fitted about a flat panel display device attached to a display surface in an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 14 is a front view of a movable support structure having an inner frame attached to a display surface and an outer frame movably engaged with the inner frame by means of guide rails whereby the outer frame can be moved to cover the flat panel display device recessed into the display surface above the support structure in an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 15 is a front view of the device inFIG. 14 in which the outer frame is moved into position to cover the flat panel display device in an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 16 is a side view of the device inFIG. 14 in an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 17 is a side view of the device inFIG. 15 in an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 18 is a front view of a movable support structure having an inner frame attachable to a display surface and an outer frame movably engaged with the inner frame by means of guide rails, one of the guide rails having a toothed rack engaged with a toothed gear on an electric motor, whereby the outer frame can be moved into position to cover and to expose an object in an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 19 is front view of a movable support structure inside a piece of furniture, the support structure comprising a transverse bar movably engaged with threaded rods and drivable by an electric motor for moving a flat panel display device out of the furniture for viewing in an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 20 is a front view of the device inFIG. 19 , in which the movable support is moved so as to move the flat panel display device out of the furniture for viewing in an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 21 is a front view of a movable support structure comprising a rail attached to a cover and movably engaged with a slide carriage attached to a display surface in an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 22 is a back view of the movable rail-slide carriage support structure shown inFIG. 21 . -
FIG. 23 is a back perspective view of a movable rail-slide carriage support structure comprising a notched belt and showing a motor connected at a 90 degree angle to the movable support structure in an embodiment of the present invention. - The present invention provides embodiments of a device and method for covering and exposing an object. In an illustrative embodiment, the device includes a support structure movably attached to a display surface adjacent an object displayed on the display surface, such as a wall. A cover is attached to the support structure. The device includes a means for moving the support structure and cover for selectively covering and exposing the object.
- In one embodiment, the support structure includes a U-shaped holder having a base leg, a carrier leg, and a connector leg extending between and connecting the base leg and the carrier leg. The base leg is movably attached to the display surface, and the cover is movably attached to the carrier leg. The base leg is movably supported on the display surface by connector elements, and the cover is movably supported on the carrier leg by connector elements. The connector elements can be rollers or a slide rail. In an embodiment, the holder further includes a first hinge between the base leg and the connector leg and a second hinge between the connector leg and the carrier leg, and each hinge is rotatable to a desired angle for foldably moving the holder away from the displayed object. The device may include two or more movable support structures and a connector between the two movable support structures.
- In another illustrative embodiment, the support structure can include an inner frame having a guide element along each side of the inner frame. An outer frame has a guide element along each side of the outer frame, and each outer frame guide element is movably engagable with one of the inner frame guide elements. The cover is attached to the outer frame. An electric motor is attached to the inner frame and adapted to move the outer frame and cover relative to the inner frame. In an embodiment, the electric motor includes a toothed gear. The outer frame guide element adjacent the toothed gear includes a toothed rack engaged with the toothed gear. Movement of the outer frame relative to the inner frame is effected by movement of the toothed rack by the electric motor and toothed gear. In an embodiment, the device includes a cable attached to the electric motor and to the outer frame. The cable is windable and unwindable by the electric motor such that movement of the outer frame relative to the inner frame is effected by winding and unwinding the cable by the electric motor.
- In another embodiment, the support structure may comprise a rail carriage attached to the display surface and a rail movably engaged with the rail carriage. A threaded rod can be attached to the rail and operably engaged with the rail carriage. A cover can be attached to the rail so that the rail and the cover can be moved to selectively cover and expose an object on, or recessed in, a display surface. An electric motor can be connected to the threaded rod for moving the threaded rod, the rail, and the cover relative to the rail carriage. The rail carriage can include a rod guide channel for guiding movement of the threaded rod relative to the rail carriage and a rail guide channel for guiding movement of the rail relative to the rail carriage.
- In another embodiment, a notched belt can be operably engaged with the rail and with the rail carriage. In this manner, a cover can be attached to the rail so that the rail and the cover can be moved to selectively cover and expose an object on, or recessed in, a display surface. An electric motor can be connected to the notched belt for moving the notched belt, the rail, and the cover relative to the rail carriage. In this embodiment, the rail carriage can include a belt guide channel for guiding movement of the notched belt relative to the rail carriage and a rail guide channel for guiding movement of the rail relative to the rail carriage.
- In another illustrative embodiment, the cover comprises a piece of furniture, the object comprises a flat panel display device, and the flat panel display device is movable out of and into the furniture. The flat panel display device can be moved out of and into the furniture by means of rotating a threaded rod operably connected to the flat panel display device. Alternatively, the flat panel display device can be moved out of and into the furniture by a telescopic means.
- In an embodiment of the present invention, the displayed object can be recessed into the display surface. The object can be a flat panel display device, a picture, an air conditioning system component, or other object desired to displayed on a display surface for which it is desirable to cover and expose.
- In an embodiment, the cover can be removably attached to the support structure. The cover can be a rigid material or a flexible material. In embodiments, the cover comprises a picture. In a particular embodiment, the object can be a first picture and the cover can be a second picture such that the second picture is movable to selectively cover and expose the first picture. The cover may be moved in a plurality of directions relative to the object.
- In an embodiment, the means for moving the support structure and cover can be manually operable. Alternatively, the means for moving the support structure and cover can include an electric motor. The means for moving the support structure and cover can be operated by a remote control device.
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FIGS. 1-23 show various embodiments of a device and method of the present invention for covering and exposing an object.FIGS. 1-2 show an embodiment of adevice 10 for selectively covering and exposing an object having aU-shaped holder 11 including abase leg 12, aconnector leg 13, and acarrier leg 14. The length relations of the threelegs holder 11, can be extended outward to accommodate the depth of the object. - As shown in
FIGS. 1 and 2 , thedevice 10 includesconnector elements support structure 11 to the display surface (shown in the base leg 12) and for movably supporting the cover to the support structure 11 (shown in the carrier leg 14) of theholder 11. As shown in the embodiment inFIG. 1 , theconnector elements 18 may be rollers 19 movable within aslide track 15 on thebase leg 12, and theconnector elements 21 may be rollers 22 movable within aslide track 15 on thecarrier leg 14. As shown in the embodiment inFIG. 2 , theconnector element 18 may be aslide rail 20 movable within theslide track 15 in thebase leg 12, and theconnector element 21 may be a slide rail 23 movable within theslide track 15 in thecarrier leg 14. In such an embodiment, theconnector elements 18 facilitate movement of thebase leg 12 and theentire holder 11. Theconnector elements 21 facilitate movement of thecarrier leg 14 and thecover 17. In an embodiment (not shown), theconnector elements holder 11 can be displaced relative to the display surface and the cover can be displaced relative to theholder 11. - In the embodiment shown in
FIGS. 1-3 , theholder 11 is U-shaped. In other embodiments, theholder 11 can have different configurations that are suitable for movably connecting theholder 11 to a display surface and for movably connecting the cover to theholder 11 such that both theholder 11 and the cover can be moved to selectively cover and expose an object adjacent theholder 11 on the display surface. For example, the holder may be shaped like a frame or have an “L” shape. An L-shaped holder (not shown) may be useful if the movable cover already includes a frame to support the cover. The holder may be attached to the short leg of the L-shaped holder, and the long leg can be movably attached to a wall. The movably mountedholder 11 enables the cover to be securely supported, as well as theholder 11 to be moved along thebase leg 12 relative to the display surface and the attachedcover 17 to be moved along thecarrier leg 14 relative to theholder 11. -
FIG. 3 shows thedevice 10 with theU-shaped holder 11 from the top, wherein it carries acover 17 on thefront side 33 of the carrier leg 14 (farthest from thewall 16 and facing an observer) by means of theconnector elements 21. Theholder 11 is movably supported to thedisplay surface 16 on therear side 34 of the base leg 12 (facing toward the display surface 16) by means of theconnector elements 18. Thecover 17 covers a flatpanel display device 30, which is attached to thedisplay surface 16. By displacing the movably supportedholder 11, an object covered in this manner, such as the flatpanel display device 30, may be exposed. - As shown in
FIG. 4 , more than oneholder 11 as shown inFIG. 3 can be utilized in an embodiment of the present invention. Thecover 17 is movably attached at itsupper portion 37 to afirst holder 11 and is movably attached at itslower portion 38 to asecond holder 35. Aconnector element 36 may be used to connect the two ormore holders multiple holders more holders large covers 17 and provide even movement of the upper andlower portions cover 17. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, theholder 11 and cover 17 may be stationary and the flatpanel display device 30 can be movable to cover and expose the flatpanel display device 30. - The
cover 17 can be a flexible material, such as a tapestry or other decorative fabric. Alternatively, thecover 17 can be a rigid material, such as a picture or painting in a frame or a mirror. Preferably, thecover 17 provides a desired aesthetic effect and can add decorative value to an environment. The flatpanel display device 30 and cover 17 can provide a complementary aesthetic or decorative effect. For example, a displacement of thecover 17 downwards, for example, may lead to an observer's impression that thecover 17 also forms a support column for the flatpanel display device 30, which may increase the aesthetic effect of the flatpanel display device 30 itself. -
FIG. 5 shows a graphic illustration of thedevice 10 from the front, in which only thecover 17 is visible. Thedevice 10 includes acover 17, for example a picture, that covers an object, for example a flatpanel display device 30. As shown inFIG. 6 ,lateral displacement 39 of the movably supportedholder 11 and thecover 17 allow the covered flatpanel display device 30 to become visible.FIG. 7 shows the flatpanel display device 30 fully exposed after theholder 11 and cover 17 are fully displaced to the side of the flatpanel display device 30. Theobject 30 displayed on thedisplay surface 16 can be partially or completely covered by thecover 17, as desired. Theholder 11 and cover 17 are shown inFIGS. 5-7 as being displaced laterally, or horizontally. In other embodiments, thedevice 10 can be attached to thedisplay surface 16, or otherwise configured, to move vertically or at other than 90 degree angles relative to theobject 30 being covered and exposed. Such flexibility in movement of thecover 17 provides for optimal use of thedevice 10 in a various applications. For example, thecover 17 may be moved into an area on thewall 16 such that thecover 17 coordinates with the room's decoration or with an adjacent oil painting, for example. - The movement of the
holder 11 for covering and exposing an object may be implemented either totally mechanically, such as by manual movement, or in an electronically controlled manner. For example, thedevice 10 may be equipped with an electric motor that can provide a slow, smooth back and forth movement of theholder 11 andcover 17. Such a motor may be directly connected to theholder 11 or it may be integrated into theconnector elements holder 11 and cover 17 may include a hydraulic drive. An electric motor may generate the required hydraulic pressure, either instantly when used or for delayed use by storing a hydraulic charge in a hydraulic storage unit. Such a means is particularly useful for heavy and/or large covers 17. In an embodiment, the automated, electronically-controlled movement of theholder 11 and cover 17 can be actuated by a remote control device, as shown inFIG. 15 and discussed herein. -
FIG. 8 shows thedevice 10 having aU-shaped holder 11 from the top. Thebase leg 12 of theholder 11 is movably attached thedisplay surface 16, and thecover 17 is movably attached to thefront side 33 of thecarrier leg 14. Thedevice 10 and cover 17 are shown covering the flatpanel display device 30 fixed to thedisplay surface 16.Lateral displacement 39 of the movably supportedholder 11 andcover 17, as shown inFIG. 9 , allows the flatpanel display device 30 to be exposed for viewing. - In an embodiment, as shown in
FIGS. 10 and 11 , theU-shaped holder 11 may include a means for moving at angles other than substantially parallel to thedisplay surface 16. Such means may provide flexibility of movement desirable in environments where the space for locating aholder 11 and cover 17 displaced from anobject 30 is limited. In such an embodiment, theholder 11 can include rotary axes, such as hinges, integrated between the legs of the holder. As shown inFIGS. 10 and 11 , afirst hinge 40 can be positioned between thebase leg 12 and theconnector leg 13 of theholder 11, and asecond hinge 41 can be located between theconnector leg 13 and thecarrier leg 14. InFIG. 10 , as theholder 11 and cover 17 are positioned to cover the flatpanel display device 30, thebase leg 12 andconnector leg 13 are positioned at approximately right angles to each other, and theconnector leg 13 and thecarrier leg 14 are likewise positioned at approximately right angles to each other. InFIG. 11 , theholder 11 and cover 17 have been moved laterally and the first and second hinges 40, 41, respectively, have been rotated so that theconnector leg 13 is positioned at approximately 180 degrees (in line) with thebase leg 12, and thecarrier leg 14 has been collapsed to a position adjacent to, and substantially parallel with, thebase leg 21 andconnector leg 13. In an embodiment, thehinges hinges hinge hinge hinges - In an embodiment, as shown in
FIG. 12 , adevice 10 for selectively covering and exposing an object includes twoU-shaped holders display surface 16 adjacent a flatpanel display device 30. Eachholder display surface 16 independent of the other. In this embodiment, thefirst holder 11 may be moved to the right 42, and thesecond holder 24 may be moved to the left 43. Thecover 17 is movably attached to thefirst holder 11, and asecond cover 44 is movably attached to thesecond holder 24. As shown inFIG. 12 , two ormore holders panel display device 30 mounted on thedisplay surface 16, but the outersecond cover 44 can be moved to cover and expose the innerfirst cover 11. - In another embodiment, as shown in
FIG. 13 , thedevice 10 includes the U-shapedmovable support structure 11 having theslide track 20 movably fitted into theslide track 15 on the flatpanel display device 30. The flatpanel display device 30 is fixedly attached to thedisplay surface 16 with wall anchors 45. Theslide track 15 is attached to the flatpanel display device 30. In such an embodiment, thesupport structure 11 can be moved horizontally along theslide track 15 so as to cover and expose the flatpanel display device 30. - In embodiments, the
device 10 can be attached to thedisplay surface 16 before thecover 17 is attached to theholder 11. Depending on the type and structural design of thecover 17, thecover 17 may be movably attached to theholder 11 at various contact points between thecover 17 and theholder 11. As described herein, electronic and/or hydraulic components may be mounted to thedevice 10. The dimensions of thecover 17 are sufficient to cover a desired object, such as the flatpanel display device 30 attached to thedisplay surface 16, as well as theholder 11 and all other components of thedevice 10. As shown inFIGS. 3-12 , the design of theholder 11 and cover 17 is such that theholder 11 and all components of thedevice 10 are covered by thecover 17 whether thecover 17 is in position to cover the object or moved to a position to expose the object. - In an embodiment of the present invention, the
device 10 allows selective covering and exposing of relatively flat objects, such as a flatpanel display device 30. In situations in which it is desirable for one or more objects displayed on a display surface to not been seen, such adevice 10 allows for one or more of the objects to be covered. Thedevice 10 may be movably attached to aplanar wall 16, and may alternatively be movably attached to other display surfaces, such as a column or room divider. Thedevice 10, and in particular, theholder 11 andcover 17, may be varied in length, width, depth, and geometry. Thecover 17 can be different materials or objects, depending on the desired look of thedisplay surface 16 when the object(s) is covered.Cover 17 designs can give a room, hall, office, or other environment a completely different look or theme than if the uncovered object is viewable. In addition, such a relatively flat object covered by the device can be uncovered for viewing and/or other use at desired times. Such uncovering can provide a dramatic or other effect for impact to observers. In this manner, embodiments of the present invention provide flexible use of adisplay surface 16, as well as a multiplied use of available space on a wall orother display surface 16. - In an embodiment of the present invention, an object to be covered can be recessed into the
display surface 16 or wall. The display object preferably rests within the recessed area such that the object does not project beyond the plane of the recess opening. In such an embodiment, thecover 17 may need to be moved only a relatively small distance to selectively cover and expose the recess and the object positioned therein. The object to be covered, which is installed in thewall 16, may be a flatpanel display device 30. Other objects, such as air conditioning system components, which may or may not be recessed in awall 16, may be covered by such adevice 10 of the present invention. In embodiments in which the object to be covered is recessed into thewall 16, an observer may be unable to recognize that the object is covered by thecover 17.FIGS. 14-18 show embodiments in which the flatpanel display device 30 installed in arecess 46 of a wall may be selectively covered and exposed. - In the embodiment shown in
FIG. 14 , the flatpanel display device 30 is installed in therecess 46 of awall 16. The support structure of thedevice 10 includes aninner frame 50 having aguide rail 51 along each side of theinner frame 50. Theinner frame 50 is attachable to adisplay surface 16 with fasteners, for example screws, via theholes 52. Anouter frame 47 has aguide rail 49 attached along each side of theouter frame 47. The outerframe guide rails 49 are attached to theouter frame 47 by fastening means 48. Each outerframe guide rail 49 is movably engagable with one of the inner frame guide rails 51. A cover 17 (not shown) can be attached to theouter frame 47. Anelectric motor 53 is attached to theinner frame 50 and adapted to move theouter frame 47 and cover relative to theinner frame 50. Acable 54 is attached to theelectric motor 53 and to theouter frame 47. (Thecable 54 is indicated by a broken line inFIG. 14 .) Thecable 54 is windable and unwindable by theelectric motor 53 such that movement of theouter frame 47 and cover relative to theinner frame 50 can be effected by winding and unwinding of thecable 54 by theelectric motor 53. - Actuation of the
electric motor 53 to move the outer frame 47 (and attachedcover 17, not shown) to cover and expose the flatpanel display device 30 can be achieved by means of a sending a signal from aremote control transmitter 60 to aremote control receiver 61 operably connected to theelectric motor 53. Theremote control transmitter 60 can include various control buttons for controlling movement of theouter frame 47 or other movable support structure. For example, thebutton 62 can be used to actuate movement of the outer frame 47 (and cover 17, not shown) to cover the flatpanel display device 30. Thebutton 63 can be used to actuate movement of the outer frame 47 (and cover 17, not shown) from in front of the flatpanel display device 30 to expose it. Thebutton 64 can be used to turn on and off the flatpanel display device 30. In another embodiment, movement of the outer frame 47 (and cover 17, not shown) can be actuated by a wall switch. The remote control signal can be a radio signal or an infrared signal. Remote control operation of thedevice 10 can be programmed into the same signal that turns a flatpanel display device 30 on and off. For example, the signal that remotely turns on thedisplay device 30 can be programmed to automatically move the support structure and cover 17 to expose thedisplay device 30. The signal that turns off thedisplay device 30 can be programmed to automatically move the support structure and cover 17 to cover thedisplay device 30. - In
FIGS. 14 and 16 , the outer frame is positioned below therecess 46 so that the flatpanel display device 30 is exposed. InFIGS. 15 and 17 , theouter frame 47 has been moved into positioned in front of therecess 46 so that the flatpanel display device 30 is covered. The dimensions of thecover 17 are sufficient to cover the flatpanel display device 30, as well as theinner frame 50 andelectric motor 53, whether theouter frame cover 47 is in position to cover or to expose the flatpanel display device 30. - In an embodiment, the
cable 54 can be a transparent material such that when thecover 17 moves, such movement may have the appearance that thecover 17 is moving independently of other structures. Alternatively, thecable 54 may comprise a metallic material that a “technical” aesthetic impression. - As shown in
FIGS. 15 and 17 , the outer frame 47 (and attachedcover 17, not shown) can be positioned to fully cover the flat panel display device, yet leave a portion of therecess 46 uncovered. This arrangement can be useful in situations in which there is a need to provide an opening to the object when it is covered. For example, some electronic equipment, for example, a stereo system, may need to have an opening for air circulation to cool the electronic components even when the system is covered. Such an opening can be provided in the top or bottom of the recess, both at the top and the bottom of the recess, or in other configurations as needed. - In the embodiment shown in
FIG. 18 , theelectric motor 53 comprises atoothed gear 65. The outerframe guide rail 49 adjacent thetoothed gear 65 comprises atoothed rack 66 engaged with thetoothed gear 65. Movement of theouter frame 47 relative to theinner frame 50 can be effected by movement of thetoothed rack 66 and outerframe guide rail 49 by theelectric motor 53 andtoothed gear 65. - Such embodiments, particularly those as shown in
FIGS. 14-18 , may be useful in art galleries that have limited exposition space. Adevice 10 of the present invention may provide the ability to significantly increase the number of art works exhibited. In addition, adevice 10 of the present invention may include a container (not shown) positioned on the floor below one or more objects, such as paintings, being displayed on awall 16. Thecover 17 may have attached to it another painting to be displayed when moved upward into position on thewall 16 over the first painting. When thecover 17 and attached painting are moved away from the underlying painting, thecover 17 and attached painting can be lowered into the container to conceal the presence of thecover 17 and second painting. In this manner, the first painting can be viewed without the influence of the presence of the second painting. -
FIGS. 19-20 illustrate another embodiment of adevice 10 of the present invention for covering and exposing an object. In this illustration, the object is a flatpanel display device 30 installed inside a piece offurniture 70, for example, a desk, credenza, console, or other furniture designed to house such an object. Thedevice 10 includes a threadedrod 71 on each side of thedevice 10 and atransverse bar 72 interconnecting the threadedrods 71. Thetransverse bar 72 is moveable along the threadedrods 71 as they are rotated. A ball-and-socket joint 73 can be located about the center of thetransverse bar 72. The flatpanel display device 30 can be coupled to the ball-and-socket joint 73. Thedevice 10 further includes a pair offirst rollers 74 located at the bottoms of the threadedrods 71, afirst belt 75 fitted around thefirst rollers 74, anidler roller 76 on one of the threadedrods 71, and adrive roller 77 on a bracket fixed at the bottom of thedevice 10. Both of therollers transverse bar 72 and the bottom of thedevice 10. Asecond belt 78 is fitted around the idler and driverollers - In operation, a user starts the
electric motor 53 to activate thedrive roller 77 in one direction in order to advance thesecond belt 78. And in turn, theidler roller 76 is driven by the conveyingsecond belt 78. Further, one threadedrod 71 is driven by rotation of theidler roller 76. Such rotation is in synchronism with that of the other threadedrod 71. In combination, the rotations are then converted into anupward movement 79 of thetransverse bar 72. Accordingly, the flatpanel display device 30 is lifted from thedevice 10. The lifting will stop if the flatpanel display device 30 has fully projected above the surface of thefurniture 70 with thetransverse bar 72 stopped by a limit switch (not shown). - When the user wishes to remove the flat
panel display device 30 from the top of thefurniture 70 or to hide the presence of the flatpanel display device 30, the user may start themotor 53 in the opposite direction of rotation to activate thedrive roller 77 in order to rotate thesecond belt 78. And in turn, theidler roller 76 is driven by the conveyingsecond belt 78. Further, one threadedrod 71 is driven by rotation of theidler roller 76. Such rotation is in synchronism with that of the other threadedrod 71. In combination, the rotations are then converted into adownward movement 80 of thetransverse bar 72. Accordingly, the flatpanel display device 30 is lowered into thefurniture 70. The lowering will stop when the flatpanel display device 30 has been fully covered under the surface of thefurniture 70. Such downward movement may be stopped by a limit switch (not shown). - Such a
device 10 can include other means for moving the flatpanel display device 30 out of and into a piece offurniture 70. For example, a telescoping means can be attached to thefurniture 70 and activated by theelectric motor 53 to move the flatpanel display device 30 upward 79 out of thefurniture 70 to uncover thedisplay device 30 and downward 80 into thefurniture 70 to cover thedisplay device 30. - When moved out of the
furniture 70, the flatpanel display device 30 can be rotated and inclined to provide an optimal viewing angle. Such rotating and inclining movements can be achieved by moving the flatpanel display device 30 about the ball-and-socket joint 73. - In an embodiment, movement of the flat
panel display device 30 out of thefurniture 70 can be automatically actuated by switching on the flatpanel display device 30. Movement of the flatpanel display device 30 into thefurniture 70 can be automatically actuated by switching off the flatpanel display device 30. - In an embodiment, the movable support structure can be attached to the flat
panel display device 30 by the manufacturer of thedisplay device 30. For example, pre-mounted guide rails, such as innerframe guide rails 51 as shown inFIGS. 14-17 , can be integrated into the design of the flatpanel display device 30 to coordinate with the design of thedisplay device 30. In other embodiments, the flatpanel display device 30 can include a means for later attaching a movable support structure. -
FIGS. 21 and 22 illustrate another embodiment of the present invention useful for moving thecover 17 for selectively covering and exposing an object such as the flatpanel display device 30. In this embodiment, thedevice 10 includes arail carriage 90 fixedly attached to thedisplay surface 16, such as a wall. Arail 93 is movably engaged within therail carriage 90. The rail-rail carriage support structure shown inFIG. 22 is viewed from the perspective of thedisplay surface 16 such that an observer is looking at theback 92 of therail carriage 90 shown inFIG. 21 . A threadedrod 94, or spindle, can be rotatably attached to therail 93 at each end of therod 94 with suitable fasteners such as screws. The threadedrod 94 is operably engaged with therail carriage 90. Therail carriage 90 includes a threadedrod guide channel 99 oriented toward the front 91 and center and along the longitudinal axis of therail carriage 90. Therod guide channel 99 has threads (not shown) that are matingly engaged with the threads of the threadedrod 94 for guiding movement of the threadedrod 94 relative to therail carriage 90. Therail carriage 90 further includes arail guide channel 98 oriented toward the front 91 along the longitudinal axis on each side of therail carriage 90 for guiding movement of therail 93 relative to therail carriage 90. - In the embodiment shown in
FIGS. 21-22 , the means for moving the support structure (that is, the rail 93-rail carriage 90 support structure) and cover 17 comprises anelectric motor 95 connected to the threadedrod 94. Themotor 95 is configured to move the threadedrod 94, therail 93, and thecover 17 relative to therail carriage 90. Themotor 95 is attached to therail 93 with suitable fasteners, such as thestrap fasteners 96 attached to anextension arm 104 extending from therail 93. Alternatively, themotor 95 can be attached directly to thecover 17 using thestrap fasteners 96. Amotor connector rod 97 extends from the end of themotor 95 adjacent the threadedrod 94 and is operably connected to the threadedrod 94. - When the
motor 95 is actuated, themotor connector rod 97 and the threadedrod 94 rotate in a direction, for example, a clockwise direction, such that the threadedrod 94 is moved upward in relation to therod guide channel 99 in therail carriage 90. In this manner, the threadedrod 94 and the attachedrail 93 and cover 17 are moved upward, and the flatpanel display device 30 displayed on thedisplay surface 16 can be covered by thecover 17. When themotor 95 is actuated to rotate in the opposite direction, for example, in a counter-clockwise direction, themotor connector rod 97 and the threadedrod 94 rotate such that the threadedrod 94 is moved downward in relation to therod guide channel 99 in therail carriage 90. In this manner, the threadedrod 94 and the attachedrail 93 and cover 17 move downward so as to expose the flatpanel display device 30. - In the embodiment shown in
FIGS. 21 and 22 , themotor 95 is connected to the threadedrod 94 andrail 93 in a straight-line alignment, that is, at a substantially 180 degree angle. In an alternative embodiment, themotor 95 can be connected to the threadedrod 94 at a substantially 90 degree angle. Such a 90 degree angle connection of themotor 95 to therail 93 is shown in the embodiment inFIG. 23 . -
FIG. 23 shows another embodiment of thedevice 10 of the present invention similar to that shown inFIGS. 21-22 . In this embodiment, therail carriage 90 is fixedly attached to thedisplay surface 16. A notchedbelt 102 is movably attached about a roller (not shown) at the top and at the bottom of therail 93. The rollers (not shown) are fixedly attached to therail 93. Therail 93 and the notchedbelt 102 are movably engaged within therail carriage 90. Therail carriage 90 includes abelt guide channel 103 oriented toward the front 91 and center and along the longitudinal axis of therail carriage 90. Thebelt guide channel 103 has teeth that are matingly engaged with the notches of the notchedbelt 102 for guiding movement of the notchedbelt 102 relative to therail carriage 90. Therail carriage 90 further includes arail guide channel 98 oriented toward the front 91 along the longitudinal axis on each side of therail carriage 90 for guiding movement of therail 93 relative to therail carriage 90. - The bottom roller is operably connected to the
motor 95 via themotor connector rod 97. Themotor 95 is configured to rotate the bottom roller and thus move the notchedbelt 102, therail 93, and thecover 17 relative to therail carriage 90. - When the
motor 95 is actuated, themotor connector rod 97 and the bottom roller rotate in a direction, for example, a counter-clockwise direction, such that the notchedbelt 102 is moved upward in relation to thebelt guide channel 103 in therail carriage 90. In this manner, the notchedbelt 102 and the attachedrail 93 and cover 17 are moved upward, and the flatpanel display device 30 displayed on thedisplay surface 16 can be covered by thecover 17. When themotor 95 is actuated to rotate in the opposite direction, for example, in a clockwise direction, themotor connector rod 97, bottom roller, and notchedbelt 102 rotate such that the notchedbelt 102 is moved downward in relation to thebelt guide channel 103 in therail carriage 90. In this manner, the notchedbelt 102 and the attachedrail 93 and cover 17 move downward so as to expose the flatpanel display device 30. - The
motor 95 can be attached directly to thecover 17 using thestrap fasteners 96. Alternatively, themotor 95 can be attached to therail 93 with suitable fasteners, such as thestrap fasteners 96 attached to theextension arm 103 extending from therail 93. - In the embodiment shown in
FIG. 23 , themotor 95 and gear are connected to the notchedbelt 102 at a substantially 90 degree angle. Themotor 95 and gear may be connected to the notchedbelt 102 in a straight-line alignment, that is, at a substantially 180 degree angle, as shown inFIGS. 21-22 . In an alternative embodiment (not shown), themotor 95 can be attached in parallel arrangement with therail 93. That is, themotor 95 can be positioned to the side of therail 93 such that the longitudinal axis of themotor 95 is parallel with the longitudinal axis of therail 93. Themotor 95 andmotor connector rod 97 are operably linked to the threadedrod 94 or the notchedbelt 102 via gears or linking structures. Any suitable arrangement of themotor 95 relative to therail 93 can be utilized to operate thedevice 10. - The
rail carriage 90 can be made from any suitable material for movably supporting therail 93 and attachedcover 17. Preferably, therail carriage 90 is made of a lightweight material, such as aluminum. Therail carriage 90 includes bearings (not shown) that provide surfaces on which therail 93 can slide as therail 93 moves within therail guide channel 98. Such bearings may comprise a polymeric material. - The notched
belt 102 can be made from any material suitable for movably engaging thebelt guide channel 103 in therail carriage 90 and moving therail 93 and attachedcover 17. Preferably, the notchedbelt 102 is made from a lightweight material, for example, a polymeric material, such as polyurethane. With such construction, the notchedbelt 102 is lightweight and quiet during movement and is virtually dirt-resistant and maintenance-free. Such a support structure comprising therail carriage 90 and notchedbelt 102 is commercially available as the DRYLIN® linear actuator from IGUS® Ltd., Moulton Park, 79/83 Tenter Road, Northampton NN3 6AX, United Kingdom. - In the embodiments shown in
FIGS. 21-23 , the automated, electronically-controlled movement of therail 93 and cover 17 can be actuated by a remote control device, as shown inFIG. 15 and discussed herein. Actuation of theelectric motor 95 to move therail 93 and cover 17 to cover and expose the flatpanel display device 30 can be achieved, for example, by means of a sending a signal from theremote control transmitter 60 to theremote control receiver 61 operably connected to theelectric motor 95. Alternatively, movement of therail 93 and cover 17 can be actuated by a wall switch. - In the embodiments shown in
FIGS. 21-23 , thecover 17 can be attached to and movable with therail 93. Thecover 17 may be removable from therail 93 such thatdifferent covers 17 can be attached to therail 93 for covering the flatpanel display device 30. In addition to the flatpanel display device 30, the object to be covered and exposed can be a picture, an air conditioning system component, or other object displayed on thedisplay surface 16. - In the embodiments shown in
FIGS. 21-23 , the dimensions of thecover 17 are sufficient to cover a desired object, such as the flatpanel display device 30 attached to thedisplay surface 16, as well as therail carriage 90,rail 93,motor 95, and all other components of thedevice 10. Thecover 17 has dimensions sufficient to cover a desired object and thedevice 10 whether thecover 17 is in position to cover the object or in position to expose the object. For example, as shown inFIG. 21 , therail carriage 90 is attached to thedisplay surface 16 near the flatpanel display panel 30. Thecover 17 is attached to therail 93 with theupper portion 100 of thecover 17 attached to the top of therail 93 and thelower portion 101 ofcover 17 attached to the bottom of therail 93. In this manner, all components of thedevice 10 are covered by thecover 17 when thecover 17 is in position to expose the flatpanel display device 30 and when thecover 17 is in position to cover the flatpanel display device 30. Such embodiments can cover and expose an object displayed on thedisplay surface 16, as well as an object recessed into thedisplay surface 16. - In an embodiment, the
motor 95 can be disengaged from the drive means—for example, either the threadedrod 94 or the notchedbelt 102—so that therail 93 and attachedcover 17 can be moved manually. Disengagement of the drive means provides a user of thedevice 10 the ability to disallow movement of thecover 17 when that is desired. - Movement of the
rail 93 and the attachedcover 17 can be stopped by de-actuation of themotor 95 when therail 93 moves to a predetermined point and trips a limit switch (not shown). A limit switch can be positioned along the path of therail 93 so as to limit movement of therail 93 and cover 17 in the direction of covering an object and in the direction of exposing an object. - Embodiments of the present invention can include other types of drive mechanisms. For example, rather than utilizing the threaded
rod 94, therail 93 can be of a telescoping type (not shown) such that rotation of themotor 95 causes telescoping arms of therail 93, and thus the attachedcover 17, to move in one direction to cover an object and in the opposite direction to expose the object. Such a support structure comprising a telescopic system is commercially available as DRYLIN® N telescopic system from IGUS® Ltd., Moulton Park, 79/83 Tenter Road, Northampton NN3 6AX, United Kingdom. In other embodiments, the drive mechanism can employ a chain, cable, or other means (not shown) operably connected to themotor 95 and configured to move the attachedcover 17. For example, a monorail linear movement system useful in embodiments of the present invention is commercially available as “Powertrack” from Schneeberger, Inc., 11 DeAngelo Drive, Bedford, Mass. 01730. - In embodiments as shown in
FIGS. 21-23 , thedevice 10 allows selective covering and exposing of relatively flat objects, such as a flatpanel display device 30. In situations in which it is desirable for one or more objects displayed on thedisplay surface 16 to not been seen, such embodiments allow for one or more of the objects to be covered. Thedevice 10 may be movably attached to aplanar wall 16, and may alternatively be movably attached to other display surfaces, such as a column or room divider. Thedevice 10, and in particular, therail 93 andcover 17, may be varied in length, width, depth, and geometry. Thecover 17 can be different materials or objects, depending on the desired look of thedisplay surface 16 when the object(s) is covered.Cover 17 designs can give a room, hall, office, or other environment a completely different look or theme when desired objects are covered. In addition, such a relatively flat object covered by thedevice 10 can be uncovered for viewing and/or other use at desired times. Such uncovering can provide a dramatic or other effect for impact to observers. In this manner, such rail 93-rail carriage 90 support structure embodiments provide flexible use of adisplay surface 16, as well as a multiplied use of available space on a wall orother display surface 16. - An embodiment of the present invention includes a method for selectively covering and exposing an object displayed on a display surface, such as a
wall 16. In such a method, a support structure is attached to thedisplay surface 16 adjacent theobject 30. The support structure is movable relative to thedisplay surface 16. Acover 17 is fixedly or removably attached to the support structure. The support structure and cover 17 can be moved to selectively cover and expose theobject 30. In one embodiment, as shown inFIGS. 1-4 , the support structure comprises aU-shaped holder 11 having abase leg 12 movably attached to thedisplay surface 16, acarrier leg 14 for movably attaching thecover 17, and aconnector leg 13 extending between and connecting thebase leg 12 and thecarrier leg 14. In another embodiment of a method of the present invention, the displayedobject 30 may be recessed into thedisplay surface 16. In such an embodiment, as shown inFIGS. 14-17 , the support structure comprises aninner frame 50 having aguide rail 51 along each side of theinner frame 50. Anouter frame 47 has aguide rail 49 along each side of theouter frame 47. Each outerframe guide rail 49 is movably engagable with one of the inner frame guide rails 51. Thecover 17 is attachable to theouter frame 47. Anelectric motor 53 is attached to theinner frame 50 and adapted to move theouter frame 47 and cover 17 relative to theinner frame 50. - In embodiments of such methods, the object can comprise a flat
panel display device 30, a picture, an air conditioning system component, or other relatively flat object attached to adisplay surface 16 desired to be covered. Thecover 17 can be a flexible material, such as a tapestry or other decorative fabric. In other embodiments, thecover 17 can comprise a rigid material. For example, thecover 17 may be a picture or a mirror. In an embodiment of a method, the object comprises a first picture and thecover 17 comprises a second picture. The support structure and second picture can be moved to selectively cover and expose the first picture. - In an embodiment of a method, the support structure and cover 17 can be moved in a plurality of directions relative to the object. The support structure and cover 17 can be moved by means of an
electric motor 53. In such an embodiment, movement of the support structure and cover 17 can be actuated by means of aremote control device - In another embodiment of a method, the
rail carriage 90 can be attached to thedisplay surface 16 adjacent an object displayed on, or recessed in, thedisplay surface 16. Therail 93 is movably engaged with therail carriage 90. The threadedrod 94 can be attached to therail 93 and operably engaged with therail carriage 90. Thecover 17 can be attached to therail 93 and the threadedrod 94, therail 93, and thecover 17 moved relative to therail carriage 90 to selectively cover and expose the object. In an alternative embodiment of a method, the notchedbelt 102 can be operably engaged with therail 93 and with therail carriage 90 such that the notchedbelt 102, therail 93, and thecover 17 can be moved relative to therail carriage 90 to selectively cover and expose the object. In such embodiments, therail 93 and attachedcover 17 and either the threadedrod 94 or the notchedbelt 102 can be moved by means of amotor 95. Themotor 95 can be actuated by means of aremote control device - Although the present invention has been described with reference to particular embodiments, it should be recognized that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles of the present invention. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that a device and method for covering and exposing an object of the present invention may be constructed and implemented in other ways and embodiments. Accordingly, the description herein should not be read as limiting the present invention, as other embodiments also fall within the scope of the present invention.
Claims (75)
1. A device, comprising:
a support structure movably attached to a display surface adjacent an object displayed on the display surface;
a cover attached to the support structure; and
a means for moving the support structure and cover for selectively covering and exposing the object.
2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the support structure comprises a U-shaped holder having a base leg having a back side facing toward the display surface, a carrier leg having a front side facing away from the display surface, and a connector leg extending between and connecting the base leg and the carrier leg, wherein the back side of the base leg is movably attached to the display surface and the cover is movably attached to the front side of the carrier leg.
3. The device of claim 2 , wherein the base leg is movably supported on the display surface by connector elements and the cover is movably supported on the carrier leg by connector elements.
4. The device of claim 3 , wherein the connector elements comprise rollers or a slide rail.
5. The device of claim 2 , wherein the holder further comprises a first hinge between the base leg and the connector leg and a second hinge between the connector leg and the carrier leg, wherein each hinge is rotatable to a desired angle.
6. The device of claim 5 , wherein the hinges are controllable by an electric motor and wherein the angle of rotation of each hinge is limited by mechanical or photoelectric limit switches.
7. The device of claim 1 , wherein the device comprises at least two movable support structures, further comprising a connector between the at least two movable support structures.
8. The device of claim 1 , wherein the support structure comprises:
an inner frame having a guide element along each side of the inner frame;
an outer frame having a guide element along each side of the outer frame, each outer frame guide element movably engagable with one of the inner frame guide elements, wherein the cover is attached to the outer frame; and
an electric motor attached to the inner frame and adapted to move the outer frame and cover relative to the inner frame.
9. The device of claim 8 , wherein the electric motor comprises a toothed gear, the outer frame guide element adjacent the toothed gear comprises a toothed rack engaged with the toothed gear, and movement of the outer frame relative to the inner frame is effected by movement of the toothed rack by the electric motor and toothed gear.
10. The device of claim 8 , further comprising a cable attached to the electric motor and to the outer frame, wherein the cable is windable and unwindable by the electric motor and wherein movement of the outer frame relative to the inner frame is effected by winding and unwinding the cable by the electric motor.
11. The device of claim 1 , wherein the cover comprises a piece of furniture, the object comprises a flat panel display device, and the flat panel display device is movable out of and into the furniture.
12. The device of claim 11 , wherein the flat panel display device is movable out of and into the furniture by means of rotating a threaded rod operably connected to the flat panel display device.
13. The device of claim 11 , wherein the flat panel display device is movable out of and into the furniture by a telescopic means.
14. The device of claim 11 , wherein, when moved out of the furniture, the flat panel display device is rotatable and inclinable to provide an optimal viewing angle.
15. The device of claim 11 , wherein movement of the flat panel display device out of the furniture is automatically actuated by switching on the flat panel display device and moving the flat panel display device into the furniture is automatically actuated by switching off the flat panel display device.
16. The device of claim 1 , wherein the display surface comprises a wall.
17. The device of claim 1 , wherein the object is recessed into the display surface.
18. The device of claim 1 , wherein the object comprises a flat panel display device, a picture, or an air conditioning system component.
19. The device of claim 1 , wherein the cover is removably attached to the support structure.
20. The device of claim 1 , wherein the cover comprises a rigid material.
21. The device of claim 1 , wherein the cover comprises a picture.
22. The device of claim 1 , wherein the object comprises a first picture and the cover comprises a second picture such that the second picture is movable to selectively cover and expose the first picture.
23. The device of claim 1 , wherein the cover is movable in a plurality of directions relative to the object.
24. The device of claim 1 , wherein the support structure is integrated with the object.
25. The device of claim 1 , wherein the support structure is removably attached to the object.
26. The device of claim 1 , wherein the means for moving the support structure and cover is manually operable.
27. The device of claim 1 , wherein the means for moving the support structure and cover comprises an electric motor.
28. The device of claim 1 , wherein the means for moving the support structure and cover further comprises a rope or cable windable and unwindable by the electric motor.
29. The device of claim 1 , wherein the means for moving the support structure and cover is operable by a remote control device.
30. The device of claim 1 , wherein the means for moving the support structure and cover comprises hydraulic means.
31. A device, comprising:
an inner frame attached to a wall adjacent an object displayed on the wall and having a guide element along each side of the inner frame;
an outer frame having a guide element on each side of the outer frame, each outer frame guide element movably engagable with one of the inner frame guide elements;
a rigid cover attached to the outer frame; and
an electric motor attached to the inner frame and adapted to move the outer frame and cover relative to the inner frame to selectively cover and expose the object.
32. The device of claim 31 , wherein the electric motor comprises a toothed gear, the outer frame guide element adjacent the toothed gear comprises a toothed rack engaged with the toothed gear, and movement of the outer frame relative to the inner frame is effected by movement of the toothed rack by the electric motor and toothed gear.
33. The device of claim 31 , further comprising a cable attached to the electric motor and to the outer frame, wherein the cable is windable and unwindable by the electric motor and wherein movement of the outer frame relative to the inner frame is effected by winding and unwinding the cable by the electric motor.
34. The device of claim 31 , wherein the object is recessed into the wall.
35. The device of claim 31 , wherein the cover is removably attached to the outer frame.
36. The device of claim 31 , wherein the object comprises a flat panel display device, a picture, or an air conditioning system component.
37. The device of claim 31 , wherein the cover comprises a picture.
38. The device of claim 31 , wherein the object comprises a first picture and the cover comprises a second picture such that the second picture is movable to selectively cover and expose the first picture.
39. The device of claim 31 , wherein the electric motor is operable by a remote control device.
40. The device of claim 1 , wherein the support structure comprises a rail carriage attached to the display surface, a rail movably engaged with the rail carriage, and a threaded rod attached to the rail and operably engaged with the rail carriage, and wherein the cover is attached to and movable with the rail.
41. The device of claim 40 , wherein the means for moving the support structure and cover comprises an electric motor connected to the threaded rod for moving the threaded rod, the rail, and the cover relative to the rail carriage.
42. The device of claim 40 , wherein the rail carriage further comprises a rod guide channel for guiding movement of the threaded rod relative to the rail carriage and a rail guide channel for guiding movement of the rail relative to the rail carriage.
43. The device of claim 40 , wherein the cover is removably attached to the rail.
44. The device of claim 41 , wherein the means for moving the support structure and cover is operable by a remote control device.
45. The device of claim 40 , wherein the object comprises a flat panel display device, a picture, or an air conditioning system component.
46. The device of claim 1 , wherein the support structure comprises a rail carriage attached to the display surface, a rail movably engaged with the rail carriage, and a notched belt operably engaged with the rail and with the rail carriage, and wherein the cover is attached to and movable with the rail.
47. The device of claim 46 , wherein the means for moving the support structure and cover comprises an electric motor connected to the notched belt for moving the notched belt, the rail, and the cover relative to the rail carriage.
48. The device of claim 46 , wherein the rail carriage further comprises a belt guide channel for guiding movement of the notched belt relative to the rail carriage and a rail guide channel for guiding movement of the rail relative to the rail carriage.
49. The device of claim 46 , wherein the cover is removably attached to the rail.
50. The device of claim 47 , wherein the means for moving the support structure and cover is operable by a remote control device.
51. The device of claim 46 , wherein the object comprises a flat panel display device, a picture, or an air conditioning system component.
52. A method for selectively covering and exposing an object displayed on a display surface, comprising:
attaching a support structure to the display surface adjacent the object, the support structure movable relative to the display surface;
attaching a cover to the support structure; and
moving the support structure and cover to selectively cover and expose the object.
53. The method of claim 52 , wherein the support structure comprises a U-shaped holder having a base leg movably attached to the display surface, a carrier leg for movably attaching the cover, and a connector leg extending between and connecting the base leg and the carrier leg.
54. The method of claim 52 , wherein the support structure comprises:
an inner frame having a guide element along each side of the inner frame;
an outer frame having a guide element along each side of the outer frame, each outer frame guide element movably engagable with one of the inner frame guide elements, wherein the cover is attached to the outer frame; and
an electric motor attached to the inner frame and adapted to move the outer frame and cover relative to the inner frame.
55. The method of claim 52 , wherein the display surface comprises a wall.
56. The method of claim 52 , wherein the object is recessed into the display surface.
57. The method of claim 52 , wherein the object comprises a flat panel display device, a picture, or an air conditioning system component.
58. The method of claim 52 , wherein attaching a cover to the support structure comprises removably attaching the cover to the support structure.
59. The method of claim 52 , wherein the cover comprises a rigid material.
60. The method of claim 52 , wherein the cover comprises a picture.
61. The method of claim 52 , wherein the object comprises a first picture and the cover comprises a second picture, and wherein moving the support structure and cover comprises moving the second picture to selectively cover and expose the first picture.
62. The method of claim 52 , wherein moving the support structure and cover comprises moving the support structure and cover in a plurality of directions relative to the object.
63. The method of claim 52 , wherein moving the support structure and cover comprises manually moving the support structure and cover.
64. The method of claim 52 , wherein moving the support structure and cover comprises moving the support structure and cover by means of an electric motor.
65. The method of claim 52 , wherein moving the support structure and cover comprises moving the support structure and cover by means of a remote control device.
66. A method, comprising:
providing a rail carriage attached to a display surface adjacent an object, a rail movably engaged with the rail carriage, and a threaded rod attached to the rail and operably engaged with the rail carriage;
attaching a cover to the rail; and
moving the threaded rod, the rail, and the cover relative to the rail carriage to selectively cover and expose the object.
67. The method of claim 66 , wherein moving the threaded rod, the rail, and the cover comprises moving the threaded rod, the rail, and the cover by means of an electric motor connected to the threaded rod.
68. The method of claim 67 , wherein moving the threaded rod, the rail, and the cover comprises moving the threaded rod, the rail, and the cover by means of a remote control device.
69. The method of claim 66 , wherein attaching the cover to the rail comprises removably attaching the cover to the rail.
70. The method of claim 66 , wherein the object comprises a flat panel display device, a picture, or an air conditioning system component.
71. A method, comprising:
providing a rail carriage attached to a display surface adjacent an object, a rail movably engaged with the rail carriage, and a notched belt operably engaged with the rail and with the rail carriage;
attaching a cover to the rail; and
moving the notched belt, the rail, and the cover relative to the rail carriage to selectively cover and expose the object.
72. The method of claim 71 , wherein moving the notched belt, the rail, and the cover comprises moving the notched belt, the rail, and the cover by means of an electric motor connected to the notched belt.
73. The method of claim 72 , wherein moving the notched belt, the rail, and the cover comprises moving the notched belt, the rail, and the cover by means of a remote control device.
74. The method of claim 71 , wherein attaching the cover to the rail comprises removably attaching the cover to the rail.
75. The method of claim 71 , wherein the object comprises a flat panel display device, a picture, or an air conditioning system component.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/288,566 US20060076860A1 (en) | 2004-04-14 | 2005-11-29 | Device and method for covering and exposing an object |
Applications Claiming Priority (6)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
CH00649/04 | 2004-04-14 | ||
CH00649/04A CH696885A5 (en) | 2004-04-14 | 2004-04-14 | Device of a movable wall paneling for concealing or highlighting a background. |
US10/547,851 US20060170315A1 (en) | 2004-04-14 | 2005-03-29 | Device for covering or displaying an object |
PCT/EP2005/003261 WO2005102107A1 (en) | 2004-04-14 | 2005-03-29 | Device for covering or displaying an object |
US11/234,659 US20060017356A1 (en) | 2004-04-14 | 2005-09-22 | Device and method for covering and exposing an object |
US11/288,566 US20060076860A1 (en) | 2004-04-14 | 2005-11-29 | Device and method for covering and exposing an object |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US11/234,659 Continuation-In-Part US20060017356A1 (en) | 2004-04-14 | 2005-09-22 | Device and method for covering and exposing an object |
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US20060076860A1 true US20060076860A1 (en) | 2006-04-13 |
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ID=36144557
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Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US11/288,566 Abandoned US20060076860A1 (en) | 2004-04-14 | 2005-11-29 | Device and method for covering and exposing an object |
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