Modular Framing System for Next-Generation Displays

Publication ID: 24-11857091_0010_PTD
Published: November 07, 2025
Category:Future Evolutions & Paradigm Shifts

Legal Citation

pr1or.art Inc., “Modular Framing System for Next-Generation Displays,” Published Technical Disclosure No. 24-11857091_0010_PTD, Published November 07, 2025, available at https://archive.pr1or.art/24-11857091_0010_PTD
This technical disclosure describes improvements that would be readily apparent to a Person Having Ordinary Skill In The Art (PHOSITA) when considered in combination with the foundational architecture disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 11,857,091.

Summary of the Inventive Concept

A modular framing system that enables the creation of complex frame geometries, customizable frame designs, and immersive display experiences through the integration of physical and digital technologies.

Background and Problem Solved

The original snap-fit framing system, while innovative, has limitations in terms of flexibility, customization, and interactivity. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing a modular and reconfigurable framing system that can adapt to various display requirements and environments.

Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept

The modular framing system comprises a plurality of interlocking frame modules, each with a unique shape and size, allowing for the creation of complex frame geometries and customizable frame designs. The system enables dynamic reconfiguration through the detachment and reattachment of frame modules, optimizing the display of the image substrate. Additionally, the system integrates sensor-enabled frame modules that detect and respond to environmental changes, and hybrid frame modules that combine physical and augmented reality (AR) display technologies. The system also features self-sustaining frame modules with integrated energy harvesting and storage capabilities.

Novelty and Inventive Step

The new claims introduce a paradigm shift in framing systems by enabling modular, reconfigurable, and interactive displays that were not possible with the original snap-fit framing system. The inventive step lies in the integration of physical and digital technologies to create immersive and adaptive display experiences.

Alternative Embodiments and Variations

Alternative embodiments of the modular framing system could include the use of different materials, shapes, and sizes of frame modules, as well as varying levels of automation and machine learning integration. Variations could also include the incorporation of additional sensors, energy harvesting technologies, and display technologies to further enhance the system's capabilities.

Potential Commercial Applications and Market

The modular framing system has significant commercial potential in various industries, including art, photography, retail, and entertainment. The system's ability to create immersive and interactive display experiences makes it an attractive solution for businesses seeking to enhance customer engagement and brand experiences.

Field of Art

Display and framing technologies, with expertise in mechanical design, modular systems, and display mounting solutions

Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile

An engineer with knowledge of mechanical design, experience in modular product systems, understanding of display technologies, and familiarity with snap-fit and interlocking frame mechanisms

Obviousness Rationale

A person of ordinary skill would recognize that the modular framing system represents predictable extensions of the source patent's snap-fit frame design. The core mechanical principles of interlocking components, recesses, and configurable frame structures are directly derived from the original patent's teachings. The additional digital and sensor integration represents standard technological convergence that would be obvious to implement in modern display systems.

Obvious Combinations & Variations

Source Patent Element
Hollow outer frame element with recesses and inner landing for snap-fit assembly
PTD Variation
Modular frame modules with interlocking geometries and customizable configurations
Obviousness Reasoning
A PHOSITA would find it obvious to extend the snap-fit mechanism into a more flexible modular design, as the fundamental mechanical principles remain consistent with the source patent's teachings
Source Patent Element
Frame system with multiple ribs and alignment features
PTD Variation
Sensor-enabled frame modules that detect environmental conditions
Obviousness Reasoning
Integrating sensors into existing frame structures represents a known technique for enhancing product functionality, with predictable results in display technology
Source Patent Element
Back plate with corner guides and alignment mechanisms
PTD Variation
Machine learning algorithms for optimizing frame module reconfiguration
Obviousness Reasoning
Applying computational optimization to mechanical systems is a standard design approach that would be obvious to a skilled practitioner seeking to improve alignment and configuration processes
Source Patent Element
Snap-fit framing system for holding image substrates
PTD Variation
Hybrid framing system combining physical frames with augmented reality display technologies
Obviousness Reasoning
Convergence of physical display mechanisms with digital display technologies represents a predictable evolution in display system design
Source Patent Element
Frame system with structural components and attachment mechanisms
PTD Variation
Self-sustaining frame modules with integrated energy harvesting capabilities
Obviousness Reasoning
Adding energy harvesting to structural components is a known technique for creating self-powered systems, representing an obvious design improvement
35 U.S.C. § 103 Summary: Based on the teachings of US Patent 11857091 and the disclosed modular framing system variations, a person of ordinary skill in the art would find the claimed innovations obvious and therefore unpatentable. The proposed technical variations represent predictable extensions of existing snap-fit frame technologies, combining known mechanical design principles with standard digital integration techniques.

Original Patent Information

Patent NumberUS 11,857,091
TitleSnap-fit framing system
Assignee(s)TRACER IMAGING LLC