GB2342485A

GB2342485A - A folding sign

Info

Publication number: GB2342485A
Application number: GB9822121A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Kenneth Johnson
Original assignee: VENTURE PROJECTS
Current assignee: VENTURE PROJECTS
Priority date: 1998-10-09
Filing date: 1998-10-09
Publication date: 2000-04-12
Anticipated expiration: 2018-10-09
Also published as: GB9822121D0; GB2342485B

Abstract

A folding sign comprising a frame and a display portion (5) which is mounted on the frame, the frame comprising a first frame part (8), a second frame part (10), connector means (7) for pivotally connecting the first and second frame parts (8, 10) together such that they are movable between an open position in which the folding sign is open and able to be free standing on a surface, and a folding position in which the folding sign is folded, and biasing means (24) for biasing the first and second frame parts (8, 10) to the open position such that the folding sign is able automatically to open up from the folded position to the open position. The folding sign may include a loading arrangement for loading the biasing means with an appropriate biasing force.

Description

A FOLDING SIGN This invention relates to a folding sign.

Folding signs comprising a frame and a display portion which is mounted on the frame are we'l known. The folding signs are often used for advertising purposes outside commercial premises. The known folding signs may be such that they comprise a frame having a first frame part, a second frame part, and connector means for pivotally connecting the first and the second frame parts together such that they are movable between an open position in which the folding sign is open and able to be free standing on a surface, and a folded position in which the folded side is folded. The folding position is generally preferred for storage, transportation and carrying.

The known folding signs employ a stay to keep the first and second frame parts in the open position.

The stay needs to be operated in order to move the first and second frame parts between the open position and the closed position. Also, the stay renders the folding sign somewhat aesthetically less pleasing than it might otherwise be.

It is an aim of the present invention to obviate or reduce the above mentioned problem.

Accordingly, the present invention provides a folding sign comprising a frame and a display portion which is mounted on the frame, the frame comprising a first frame part, a second frame part, connector means for pivotally connecting the first and second frame parts together such that they are movable between an open position in which the folding sign is open and able to be free standing on a surface, and a folded position in which the folding sign is folded, and biasing means for biasing the first and second frame parts to the open position such that the folding sign is able automatically to open up from the folded position to the open position.

The use of the biasing means enables the stays that are employed in the known folding signs to be dispensed with. The biasing means automatically unfolds the sign thereby making it easier to erect the folding sign of the present invention than the known folding signs which require their stay to be operated.

By dispensing with the stay, the folding sign of the present invention is able to look more aesthetically pleasing than a known folding sign of similar shape but with a stay.

The folding sign may be one in which the first and the second frame parts are tubular frame parts.

Usually, the connector means will be provided inside the frame.

Preferably, the connector means is a tube position inside the first and second frame parts are about which one of the first and second frame parts are able to rotate.

Advantageously, the biasing means is positioned inside the frame. The biasing means is then not visible, which considerably adds to the aesthetic appeal of the folding sign.

The biasing means may be a coil spring.

The folding sign may include a loading arrangement for loading the biasing means with an appropriate biasing force.

The loading arrangement may comprise anchor means for anchoring a first part of the biasing means to the first frame part, second anchor means for anchoring the connector means to the second frame part, and third anchor means for anchoring a second part of the biasing means to the connector means, whereby the first frame part is rotatable about the second frame part, the first frame part being smaller than the second frame part in order for the first frame part to be rotatable about the second frame part when the folding sign is standing on the surface.

The loading arrangement may be one in which the first anchor means is a nut and bolt arrangement with a connector piece which connects to an end of the biasing means, in which the second anchor means is a bar arrangement which extends across an end of the first frame part, and in which the third connector means is at least one weld.

The folding sign may include fastener means for fastening together the first and second frame parts when they are in the folded position.

The fastener means may be a clip fastener means.

The clip fastener means may be in the form of a band or a loop.

The first and second frame parts may be C-shaped frame parts. Any suitable and appropriate shape can be employed for the first and second frame parts.

The folding sign may include feet members for the first and second frame parts.

The feet members may be cup shaped members. The cup shaped members may each include a spigot which extends into a hole providing in the first and second frame parts, whereby the cup shaped members are able to be connected and retained on the first and second frame parts.

The display portion will usually be a panel.

Other types of display portion may however be employed.

The display portion will usually hang from the frame. The display portion may be mounted in other ways on the frame if desired.

Embodiments of the invention will now be described solely by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 is a perspective view of a known folding sign and in an open position; Figure 2 is a side view of part of the folding sign shown in Figure 1 and illustrates the need for a brace; Figure 3 is a perspective view of a first sign of the present invention and in an open position; Figure 4 is a perspective view of the sign shown in Figure 3 but in a closed position; Figure 5 is a perspective view of a second folding sign of the present invention; Figure 6 is an exploded view of part of the first folding sign shown in Figure 3 and illustrates connector means and biasing means used in the folding sign; Figure 7 is an assembled view, partially in section, of the arrangement shown in Figure 6.

Referring to Figures 1 and 2, there is shown a known folding sign. The known folding sign is folded flat for storage purposes by releasing the brace 1 and swivelling the sign shut by partial rotation of the frame about a centre swivel joint 2. The brace 1 functions to maintain a predetermined angle of splay between a first frame part 3 and a second frame part 4 of the frame.

The brace 1 further prevents first and second frame parts 3,4 from separately or together partially rotating about the centre swivel joint 2, and collapsing the frame. As illustrated in Figure 2, this could happen if the display panel part of the frame swings sufficiently violently in the direction 6, for example in a gusting high wind.

Referring now to Figures 3 and 4, there is shown a first folding sign in accordance with the present invention. The folding sign has a circular tubular frame comprising a first frame part 8 and a second frame part 10. The folding sign includes a means for automatically opening the frame to a predetermined angle of splay. The folding sign is such that sufficient tension is able to be maintained between the first and second frame parts 8,10 in order to prevent them from rotating about the centre joint 7 and collapsing the frame in windy conditions of the type illustrated in Figure 2.

The tubular frame shown in Figure 3 is configured similarly to that shown in Figure 1. However, the frame could be configured in a number of alternative shapes, one example of which is shown in Figure 5.

Referring especially to Figure 3, whilst the first and the second frame parts 8,10 look identical, there is an intentional difference in height between the two frame parts. This difference in height is equal to the diameter of the tube used for the frame.

In the example shown in Figure 3, the first frame part 8 has been made shorter than the second frame part 10.

Before the swinging panel 5 is fitted, the first frame part 8 is pulled away from the centre joint 7 about the same distance as the diameter of the tube.

This enables the first frame part 8 to be rotated through 360 without catching the second frame part 10. This 360 rotation is indicated by arrow 9 in Figure 3. The reason for this feature is explained hereinbelow, wherein a description of the assembling of the frame for the folding sign is given.

Referring now to Figures 6 and 7, there is given an explanation of the manufacture and assembly of the folding sign shown in Figure 3, including the method of loading a coil spring which forms part of the folding sign. Thus, referring especially to Figures 6 and 7, the first and second frame parts 8,10 are formed from 1.125 inch diameter tubular steel, with a 18swg thick wall.

The second frame part 10 is provided with two holes 13,14 at the top, near to the end as shown.

Connector means in the form of a tube 15 is provided.

This connector means may be regarded as a tubular hinge connector means and it is made from 1 inch diameter 18swg thick steel wall. At the time of assembly, one end of the tube 15 is inserted into the end of the second frame part 10 as shown. The tube 15 is inserted to a predetermined point as indicated by a shaded area 16 on the tube 15.

Provision is made for allowing the tube 15 tc be welded to the second frame part 10 through the holes 13,14, with a slot 20 located in a predetermined position relative to the two weld holes 13,14.

The first frame part 8 has a 4.5mm diameter hole 18 drilled through one side of the tube at a predetermined position in order to accommodate a pop rivet 19. In the present example under discussion, the pop rivet 19 has a 4.5mm diameter and it is 16mm long. The pop rivet 19 is inserted and set aX a final stage of assembly.

A 6mm wide slot 20 is provided at a predetermined point on the tube 15. The slot 20 accommodates the pop rivet set end 29, which forms part of pop rivet 19. When the end 29 of the pop rivet 19 is fitted and set, the end 29 becomes just under 6mm in diameter and a sliding fit in the slot 20. The slot 20, in conjunction with the set end 29 of the pop rivet 19, restricts the rotary movement of the first and second frame parts 8,10. It has been found by experiment that a slot 20 allowing 42 of movement splays the first and second frame parts 8,10 at the required angle.

At a predetermined point on the tube 15, there is a 3/16 inch diameter hole 21 drilled straight through the tube to accommodate a 3/16 inch diameter steel pin 22. The pin 22 is 1 inch long A 5mm diameter hole 23 is drilled straight through the tube at a predetermined point in the first frame part 8.

A 18mm diameter spring 24 is provided as shown.

The spring 24 is formed from 3mm diameter wire, and the spring 24 has a coil length of 99mm.

Two circular headed bolts 25,26 are provided.

Each bolt 25,26 has a cross drilled 5mm diameter hole through its head. The bolts 25,26 have threads pitched and of such a diameter that the bolts 25,26 can be screwed one into each end of the spring 24.

The assembling of the various parts of the folding sign will now be described.

The folding sign is assembled by first welding the tube 15 into a predetermined position in the second frame part 10 utilising the weld holes 13,14.

The two bolts 25,26 are screwed one into each end of the spring 24.

The spring 24 is pushed into the tube 15, so that the hole cross drill to the head of the bolt 25 is opposite the hole 21. The pin 22 is inserted into the hole 21, and through the head of the bolt 25 in order to prevent the spring 24 being pulled out.

The second frame part 10, with the tube 15 welded into it and the spring 22 held by the pin 21, is pushed into the first frame part 8.

The cross drilled hole through the head of the right hand bolt 26 which is screwed into the end of the spring 24, is predetermined to now be opposite the hole 23.

A bolt 27 is inserted through the hole 23.

The bolt 27 passes through the head of the bolt 26 which is screwed into the spring 24. A nut 28 is fitted to the bolt 27 in order to prevent the bolt 27 from dropping out.

At this point, the spring 24 is unloaded, and the first and second frame parts 8,10 are not yet sprung apart to the required 42 splayed position.

In order to load the spring load 24 to enable it to exert the required tension or biasing force between the first and second frame parts 8,10, it is necessary to hold the second frame part 10 stationary.

The first frame part 8 is then pulled away at the centre joint 7 about the same distance as the diameter of the tubular frame. The spring 24 allows this to be done as the spring 24 stretches between the two retaining points 22 and 27. In the pulled apart position, the first frame part 8 is able to be rotated clockwise to wind the spring 24 up until there is the required tension in the spring 24 to keep the first and second frame parts 8,10 sprung apart. The winding is facilitated because the first frame part 8 is shorter than the second frame part 10 as mentioned above. By experiment, it has been found that two or three turns give the required tension in the spring for satisfactory automatic opening of the folding sign.

When sufficient tension has been achieved in the spring 24, the hole 18 is lined up with the slot 20.

The pop rivet 19 is then inserted and set. The pop rivet end 29, on being set, expands to just under 6mm diameter, with enough clearance for it to slide in the slot 20 as the first and second frame parts 8,10 spring apart into the splayed position.

The second frame part 10 is now able to be released. This is because the movement between the first and second frame parts 8,10 is now restricted to the 42 of opening by the action of the set end 29 of the pop rivet 19 operating in the slot 20. The first and the second frame parts 8,10 are splayed at the predetermined angle of 42 .

When it is desired to pack or store the folding sign away, the first and the second frame parts 8,10 are simply pushed together as shown at Figure 4.

Clip fastener means 30 can then be put around leg parts of the frame in order to keep the first and the second frame parts 8,10 together.

It is to be appreciated that the embodiments of the invention described above with reference to the accompanying drawings have been given by way of example only and that modifications may be effected.

Thus, for example, first and second frame parts of designs other than those shown in the drawings may be employed. Similarly, a displayed portion other than the illustrated display panel 5 may be employed.

Still further, other means may be employed for anchoring the ends of the coil spring 24.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. A folding sign comprising a frame and a display portion which is mounted on the frame, the frame comprising a first frame part, a second frame part, connector means for pivotally connecting the first and second frame parts together such that they are movable between an open position in which the folding sign is open and able to be free standing on a surface, and a folding position in which the folding sign is folded, and biasing means for biasing the first and second frame parts to the open position such that the folding sign is able automatically to open up from the folded position to the open position.
2. A folding sign according to claim 1 in which the first and second frame parts are tubular frame parts.
3. A folding sign according to claim 1 or claim 2 in which the connector means is provided inside the frame.
4. A folding sign according to claim 3 in which the connector means is a tube positioned inside the first and second frame parts and about which one of the first and second frame parts is able to rotate.
5. A folding sign according to any one of the preceding claims in which the biasing means is positioned inside the frame.
6. A folding sign according to any one of the preceding claims in which the biasing means is a coil spring.
7. A folding sign according to any one of the preceding claims and including a loading arrangement for loading the biasing means with an appropriate biasing force.
8. A folding sign according to claim 7 in which the loading arrangement comprises first anchor means for anchoring a first part of the biasing means to the first frame part, second anchor means for anchoring the connector means to the second frame part, and third anchor means for anchoring a second part of the biasing means to the connector means, whereby the first frame part is rotatable about the second frame part, the first frame part being smaller than the second frame part in order for the first frame part to be rotatable about the second frame part when the frame is standing on the surface.
9. A folding sign according to claim 8 in which the first anchor means is a nut and bolt arrangement with a connector piece which connects to an end of the biasing means, in which the second anchor means is a bar arrangement which extends across an end of the first frame part, and in which the third connector means is at least one weld.
10. A folding sign according to any one of the preceding claims and including fastener means for fastening together the first and second frame parts when they are in the folded position.
11. A folding sign according to claim 10 in which the fastener means is a clip fastener means.
12. A folding sign according to any one of the preceding claims in which the first and second frame parts are C-shaped parts.
13. A folding sign according to any one of the preceding claims and including feet members for the first and second frame parts.
14. A folding sign according to claim 13 in which the feet members are cup shaped members.
15. A folding sign according to any one of the preceding claims in which the display portion is a panel.
16. A folding sign according to any one of the preceding claims in which the display portion hangs from the frame.
17. A folding sign substantially as herein described with reference to Figures 3,4,6 and 7 and to Figure 5 of the accompanying drawings.

17. A folding sign substantially as herein described with reference to Figures 3,4,6 and 7 and to Figure 5 of the accompanying drawings.

Amendments to the claims have been filed as follows 1. A folding sign comprising a frame and a display portion which is mounted on the frame, the frame comprising a first frame part, a second frame part, connector means for pivotally connecting the first and second frame parts together such that they are movable between an open position in which the folding sign is open and able to be free standing on a surface, and a folded position in which the folding sign is folded, and biasing means for biasing the first and second frame parts to the open position such that the folding sign is able automatically to open up from the folded position to the open position.

2. A folding sign according to claim 1 in which the first and second frame parts are tubular frame parts.

3. A folding sign according to claim 1 or claim 2 in which the connector means is provided inside the frame.

4. A folding sign according to claim 3 in which the connector means is a tube positioned inside the first and second frame parts and about which one of the first and second frame parts is able to rotate. 5. A folding sign according to any one of the preceding claims in which the biasing means is positioned inside the frame.

6. A folding sign according to any one of the preceding claims in which the biasing means is a coil spring.

7. A folding sign according to any one of the preceding claims and including a loading arrangement for loading the biasing means with an appropriate biasing force.

8. A folding sign according to claim 7 in which the loading arrangement comprises first anchor means for anchoring a first part of the biasing means to the first frame part, second anchor means for anchoring the connector means to the second frame part, and third anchor means for anchoring a second part of the biasing means to the connector means, whereby the first frame part is rotatable about the second frame part, the first frame part being smaller than the second frame part in order for the first frame part to be rotatable about the second frame part when the frame is standing on the surface.

9. A folding sign according to claim 8 in which the first anchor means is a nut and bolt arrangement with a connector piece which connects to an end of the biasing means, in which the second anchor means is a bar arrangement which extends across an end of the first frame part, and in which the third anchor means is at least one weld.

10. A folding sign according to any one of the preceding claims and including fastener means for fastening together the first and second frame parts when they are in the folded position.

11. A folding sign according to claim 10 in which the fastener means is a clip fastener means.

12. A folding sign according to any one of the preceding claims in which the first and second frame parts are C-shaped parts.

13. A folding sign according to any one of the preceding claims and including feet members for the first and second frame parts.

14. A folding sign according to claim 13 in which the feet members are cup shaped members.

15. A folding sign according to any one of the preceding claims in which the display portion is a panel.

16. A folding sign according to any one of the preceding claims in which the display portion hangs from the frame.