This invention relates to an improved fastening device for securing to the frame of an artwork for use in mounting the artwork to a mounting panel, for example a mounting panel adapted to be housed within a container used for use in storing and transporting the artwork.

It is known to secure a fastening device to the rear surface of the frame of an artwork. US5314159 describes a hanging system for hanging framed paintings. The hanging system comprises a hanging rail, which can be fastened to a picture frame by threaded fasteners, and a mounting rail which may be fastened to the hanging rail. The mounting rail can be fastened to the hanging rail by fastening screws so that part of the mounting rail protrudes beyond the edge of the frame. This part is provided with a fastening point so it can be fastened to a frame carrier which can be part of transport packaging. The mounting rail may be detachably connected to the hanging rail or may be fastened thereto by a hinged joint so when not in use the mounting rail can be retracted so it no longer protrudes sideways from the frame.

US6,651,948 describes a system for hanging a picture frame based on that described in US5314159, the system comprising a hanger for securing to the rear surface of a picture frame and a support element which is detachably mounted to the hanger. The hanger is provided with support means to which a hanging cord can be attached when the picture is to be hung on a wall and clamping means to secure an end of the hanging cord. The support element can be detached from the hanger or pushed so that it no longer projects laterally beyond the picture frame. Alternatively, the support element can be held adjustably by the hanger so it can be pushed or swivelled but not detached from the hanger.

US4967993 discloses a further fastening device - known as the Oz Clip (Trade Mark) - which comprises a first arm for securing to the frame of an artwork and a second arm pivotably mounted to the first arm so it can be swung between a retracted position parallel to the first arm and an extended position perpendicular to the first arm. The first arm has screw holes for securing it to the frame and the second arm has one or more screw holes for securing the second arm to a wall or other support element.

An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an improved fastening device which is easier and more practical to use than the prior art. Another embodiment aims to provide a fastening device which can be secured to a mounting panel having retention members by means of a securing device engageable with said retention members (rather than by screw threaded fasteners). The present application discloses a further embodiment of the fastening device described in co-pending application GB 1622046.9 and improvements thereof.

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a fastening device for securing to a frame of an artwork for use in mounting the artwork to a mounting panel, the fastening device comprising a first component and a second component, one for securing to the frame and the other for securing to the mounting panel, a first end of the second component being engageable with the first component so that, in use, a second end thereof extends from the frame, the second end having a first elongate aperture therein extending substantially parallel to the length of the second component and a second elongate aperture extending at an angle thereto, the second component being reversible so it can be mounted to the first component in two mutually opposite orientations relative to the first component so as to extend therefrom in opposite directions.

The second component is preferably mounted to the first component by mutually engageable parts so as to be slidable relative to the first component between an extended and a retracted position and the fastening means comprises limiting means for inhibiting the second component from sliding beyond said retracted and/or said extended positions.

According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a fastening device for securing to a frame of an artwork for use in mounting the artwork to a mounting panel, the fastening device comprising a first component and a second component, one for securing to the frame and the other for securing to the mounting panel, the second component being mounted to the first component by mutually engageable parts so as to be slidable relative to the first component so when the first component is secured to the frame the second component can be slid between a retracted position and an extended position relative to the frame but retained on the first component by engagement of said mutually engageable parts, wherein the fastening device comprises limiting means for inhibiting the second component from sliding beyond said retracted and extended positions.

At least one of said mutually engageable parts preferably has an interrupted portion to permit assembly of the second component with the first component.

Assembly and disassembly of the first and second components by means of the interrupted portion of the mutually engageable parts may require the second component to be moved laterally to the direction of sliding and/or tilted relative to the first component. The limiting means preferably comprises a resilient member or a resiliently mounted member on one of the first and second components and first and second through holes or recesses in the other of the first and second components which are arranged to engage each other in the retracted and/or extended positions. The resilient member or resiliently mounted member may be provided on the first component and arranged to engage said first and second through-holes in the second component in the retracted and extended positions, the resilient member or resiliently mountable member being accessible through the first and second through holes by a user's finger so it can be pressed to release the engagement between the resilient means and the second component when it is desired to slide the second component relative to the first component.

The limiting means may comprise an abutment at one or both ends of the second component for limiting the sliding movement of the second component relative to the first component by engagement with part of the first component. The second component preferably has a plurality of apertures therein, at least one of the apertures being elongated in a direction at an angle to the direction of sliding of the second component relative to the first component. At least one other of the apertures is preferably elongated in a direction substantially parallel to the direction of sliding.

The fastening device may be adapted for mounting to a mounting panel provided with a plurality of retention members, the fastening device being adapted so as to be securable to the mounting panel by means of a securing device having an engagement part for engaging said second component of the fastening device and a locking part rotatable about an axis from a first angular position in which it is locatable adjacent a retention member and a second angular position in which it is engageable with the retention member,

the second component of the fastening device having a first aperture towards a distal end thereof, the aperture being sized so the locking part of the security device can pass therethrough, at least in one angular orientation of the locking part, when the second component is in the extended position, and the second component having holding means for engagement with said engagement part of the securing device so as to inhibit rotation of said engagement part about said axis relative to the second component when said engagement part is engaged therewith.

Said aperture may provide one of said through-holes.

The fastening device is preferably adapted for mounting to a mounting panel having retention members in the form of a series of parallel slots or apertures in the mounting panel and said first aperture is elongated in a direction at an angle to the length of the second component to facilitate alignment of the first aperture with one of the slots or apertures in the mounting panel. Preferably, the length of the first aperture is at least 1.0 and preferably at least 1.5 times the spacing of said slots or apertures in the mounting panel. Said holding means may comprise at least one side wall of a recess in the second component or of an upstand on the second component said side wall being engageable with sides of the engagement part when the securing device is located therein. The side wall may be a side wall of said abutment.

The holding means may comprise grooves in a surface of the second component which are engageable with complimentary ridges provided on a surface of the engagement part.

The first and second components are preferably formed of a material selected from: a metal and an engineering polymer which emulates the strength of a metal.

The first component preferably comprises support means for receiving an end of a cord or wire used to suspend the frame from a fixture. The support means may comprise a metal loop.

The first component may also comprise a plurality of fixing holes for receiving screws by which the first component may be secured to a frame.

The second component may also comprise one or more fixing holes for receiving screws by which the second component may be secured to a mounting panel.

The second component is preferably symmetrical about a plane perpendicular to the direction of sliding of the second component relative to the first component. The second component preferably comprises first and second apertures elongated in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of sliding and third and fourth apertures elongated in a direction substantially parallel to the direction of sliding.

The second component may be detachable from the first component when in said retracted position. In a preferred arrangement, the second component is also mountable on an existing fastening device, the existing fastening device comprising a first part for securing to the frame and a second part mounted to the first part and moveable relative thereto between a retracted position and an extended position relative to the frame, the second component being releasably engageable with the second part so as to extend therefrom in said extended position.

The second part of the existing fastening device may comprise an elongate arm with one or more apertures therein and the second component may comprise a channel for receiving said arm and at least one projection for fitting into an aperture in the arm.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a modifying component for mounting on an existing fastening device to provide one or more forms of securement aperture for securing the fastening device to a mounting panel, the existing fastening device being adapted for securing to a frame of an artwork, one end of the modifying component being engageable with the part of the existing fastening device so as to extend therefrom and the other end thereof being provided with said one or more forms of securement aperture therein. The existing fastening device may comprise a first part for securing to the frame and a second part mounted to the first part and moveable relative thereto between a retracted position and an extended position relative to the frame, one end of the modifying component being engageable with the second part of the existing fastening device so as to extend therefrom and the other end thereof being provided with said one or more forms of securement aperture therein.

Said one or more forms of securement aperture may comprise two elongate apertures, one being elongated in a direction substantially parallel to the length of the modifying device and the other being elongated in a direction substantially perpendicular to the length of the modifying device. According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a fastening device for securing to a frame of an artwork for use in mounting the artwork to a mounting panel having a plurality of retention members, the fastening device comprising a first component and a second component, one for securing to the frame and the other for securing to the mounting panel, the second component being mounted to the first component so as to be movable relative to the first component so when the first component is secured to the frame the second component can be moved between a retracted position and an extended position relative to the frame, the second component being adapted for use with a securing device having an engagement part for engaging the second component and a locking part which, in use, is rotatable about an axis from a first angular position in which it is locatable adjacent a retention member and a second angular position in which it is engageable with the retention member, the second component having one or more apertures therein through which the locking part can pass. According to a yet further aspect of the invention, there is provided a fastening device for securing to a frame of an artwork for use in mounting the artwork to a mounting panel having a plurality of retention members, the fastening device comprising an elongate component, a first end thereof being adapted for securing to the frame and a second end thereof, which in use extends from the frame, being adapted for use with a securing device having an engagement part for engaging the second component and a locking part which, in use, is rotatable about an axis from a first angular position in which it is locatable adjacent a retention member and a second angular position in which it is engageable with the retention member, the second end having one or more apertures therein through which the locking part can pass.

The second end preferably comprises two elongate apertures, one being elongated in a direction substantially parallel to the length of the elongate component and the other being elongated in a direction substantially perpendicular to the length of the elongate component. This version of the fastening device essentially corresponds to the second component of the fastening devices described above one end of which can be secured directly to the frame of an artwork rather than being mounted to another device which in turn is secured to the frame. Other preferred and optional features of the invention will be apparent from the following description and from the subsidiary claims. Reference is also made to co-pending application GB 1622050.1 which describes and claims apparatus for use in holding an artwork during transportation and storage, the artwork comprising or being mounted within a frame with a plurality of fastening devices secured to the frame, the apparatus comprising: a substantially flat mounting panel provided with a plurality of retention members; and a plurality of securing devices for securing the fastening devices to the mounting panel and also claims a fastening device adapted for use with such apparatus. Reference is also made to co-pending application GB 1622051.9 which describes and claims a particular form of container win which such apparatus can be mounted. The invention will now be further described, merely by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of a first embodiment of a fastening device according to the invention;

Figure 2 is a sectional view illustrating how the components of the fastening device are assembled together;

Figures 3A, 3B and 3C are perspective, sectional and plan views of the fastening device once assembled, showing a second (sliding) component thereof in a central position; Figures 4A, 4B and 4C are perspective, sectional and plan views of the fastening device showing the sliding component thereof in a retracted position;

Figures 5 A to 5D are perspective view of the fastening device when attached to the frame of an artwork, showing how the slider is moved from an extended position to a retracted position;

Figure 6 is a perspective view of the underside of the fastening device in the extended position of Fig 5A (with the frame omitted for clarity); Figures 7 A and 7B are perspective views of a fastening device attached to frame in an extended position and shows a securing device that it used to secure the fastening device to a mounting panel (the frame not being visible in Fig 7B);

Figures 8A is a similar view to Fig 7B after the securing device has been moved into contact with the fastening device and Fig 8B is a cross-sectional view thereof;

Figure 9 corresponds to Fig 8B following depression of a locking part of the securing device;

Fig 1 OA is a cross-sectional view taken at right angles to that of Fig 8B following rotation of the locking part and an engagement part of the clamping device through 90 degrees to a locked position and Figure 1 OB is a perspective view similar to Fig 7A when the clamping device is in this locked position;

Figures 11 and 12 are perspective views from in front and behind of first and second components of a second embodiment of a fastening device according to the invention; Figure 13 is a perspective view showing the first component of the second embodiment connected to the frame of an artwork and the second component being mounted to the first component;

Figure 14 is a perspective view showing the second component once it has been mounted to the first component;

Figure 15 is a perspective view showing the second component once it has been moved from the position shown in Fug 15 to an extended position;

Figure 16 is a perspective view showing the second component when assembled with the first component from the opposite direction to that shown in Figs 13 to 15;

Figure 17 is a front view of a modified version of the second embodiment in which the first component is slightly wider than the version shown in Figs 11 to 16;

Figure 18 is a perspective view of a known fastening device (known as the Oz Clip - Trade

Mark) comprising first and second arms attached to the frame of an art work;

Figure 19 is a perspective view similar to Fig 18 but with the second arm of the Oz Clip moved to an extended position;

Figure 20 is a perspective view illustrating how the second component shown in Figs 11 to 17 can be mounted on the second arm of an Oz Clip instead of being mounted to the first component shown in Figs 11 to 17; Figure 21 is a perspective view of the second component once mounted to the second arm of the Oz Clip; and

Figures 22 and 23 are perspective views from in front and behind of a variation of the second component of the second embodiment.

As shown in Figure 1, the fastening device comprises a first component 10 and a second component 20. The first component 10 is preferably in the form of a metal plate which is securable to a rear surface of a picture frame of an artwork, eg by screws (as shown in Fig 5). The second component 20 is also preferably in the form of a metal plate and arranged to be slidably mounted to the first plate. The fastening device also comprises a resilient member in the form of a spring clip 30 which, as will be described further below, may form part of limiting means for inhibiting sliding movement of the second component 20 relative to the first component 10. The first and second component 10, 20 are mutually engageable by means of a dovetail shaped recess 10A in the first component 10 and correspondingly angled edges 20 A of the second component 20 which fit into the recess 10A. The second component 20 also has abutments 20B at each end thereof to limit the sliding movement of the second component 20 relative to the first component 10, eg to prevent the second component 20 sliding out of engagement therewith and becoming detached from the first component 10. In order to permit assembly of the second component 20 onto the first component 10, the angled edges 20 A of the second component 20 are interrupted in a central portion 20 S of the second component 20 so the central portion 20S is slightly narrower (typically by 2 - 3 mm) than the remainder of the second component 20. The second component 20 is mounted to the first component 10 by aligning its central portion 20S over the recess 10A in the first component 10 and tilting and/or moving the second component 20 laterally so it can be fitted within the recess 10A as illustrated by the cross-sectional view of Fig 2 (which is taken along a centre line of the second component passing through the central potion 20S. As shown in Fig 2, the spring clip 30 is mounted to the underside of the second component 20 and projects upwards through a rectangular aperture 10B in the first component 10 to engage the underside of the second component 20. Figures 3A, 3B and 3C show perspective, cross-sectional and plan views of the fastening device once the first and second components 10, 20 have been assembled together. As shown in Fig 3B, the engagement of spring clip 30 with slots 20K, 20J in the underside of the central portion 20S of the second component 20 serves to centralise the central portion 20S of the second component 20 relative to the recess 1 OA in a direction parallel to the length of the first component 10. This helps maintain the central portion 20S of the second component 20 in the recess 10A as it is slid back and forth relative to the first component 10 and helps prevent inadvertent disengagement when the second component 20 is in the intermediate position shown in Fig 3, ie when the central portion 20S is aligned with the first component 10. Indeed, as described above, to disengage the components, it is necessary to slide the second component 20 laterally (in the direction parallel to the length of the first component 10) against the action of the spring clip 30 and to then lift one edge of the second component 20 to disengage it from the sides of the recess 10A.

As mentioned, the second component 20 can be slid between a retracted position and an extended position relative the first component 10. Figures 4A, 4B and 4C show it in the retracted position. As shown in these Figures, when in the retracted position, the spring clip 30 projects upwardly into the a first elongate aperture 20C of the second component 20. The engagement of the spring clip 30 with the aperture 20C releasably holds the second component 20 in the retracted position. This engagement thus also serves to limit sliding movement of the second component 20 relative to the first component 10. In a preferred arrangement, as shown in the Figures, both the abutment 20B and the spring clip 30 act to inhibit or limit sliding movement of the second component 20 relative to the first component 10 and in the arrangement shown the limit they each provide co-incides. Other arrangements in which they provide different limits or in which one or other limit is omitted can be envisaged.

Figure 5A shows the fastening device when secured to a rear surface 40A of the frame 40 of an artwork and shows the second component 20 in an extended position in which it projects beyond the edge of the frame 40. The second component 20 is releasably held in the extended position by engagement of the spring clip 30 with a second elongate aperture 20D in the second component 20 in a similar manner to the engagement described in relation to Figs 4A, 4B and 4C. Indeed, in a preferred arrangement, the second component 20 is symmetrical about a plane perpendicular to the plane of the second component 20 and mid way along its length.

To move the second component 20 from the extended position to the retracted position, the spring clip 30 is pressed, eg by a user's finger, through the second elongate aperture 20D to depress it and disengage it from the aperture (as illustrated by the arrow in Fig 5B), the second component 20 can then be slid towards the retracted position (as illustrated by the arrow in Fig 5C). Figure 5D shows the second component 20 in the retracted position in which it no longer projects from the side of the frame 40 of the artwork. As described above, the second component 20 is realisably held in the retracted position by engagement of the spring clip 30 in the first elongate aperture 20C. It can be released from this position so it can be slid toward the extended position in the same manner as described in relation to Fig 5B.

Other forms of resilient member or resiliently mounted member may be used in place of the spring clip 30 and may be mounted on the first or second component and the resilient member may be arranged to engage a recess or aperture in the first or second component in order to releasably hold the second component 20 in the retracted and/or extended position relative to the first component 10. It will also be appreciated that other arrangements may be used to limit sliding movement of the second component 20 relative to the first component 10 and/or to releasably hold the second component 20 in the retracted and extended positions.

As shown in Fig 5 A, the first component 10 may be secured to the frame by means of screws 41 or other thread fasteners fitted through two or more screw holes IOC in the first component 10. In use, the fastening component often remains secured to the frame 40 when the artwork is being displayed and to this end it is preferably provided with support means, eg in the form of a pivotable metal loop 11 for receiving a picture wire used to hang the artwork on a wall or other location. It is for this reason that the second component 20 can be slid to a retracted position so it is out of sight (or at least partially concealed) when the artwork is on display but remains ready for use when the artwork is to be secured to a mounting panel for transportation or storage.

Figure 6 shows the underside of the second component 20.. As shown in this Figure (and the preceding Figures), the second component 20 comprises first and second abutments 20B at its respective ends, first and second elongate apertures 20C, 20D, these apertures being elongated in a direction substantially perpendicular to the length of the second component 20, third and fourth elongate apertures which are elongated in a direction substantially parallel to the length of the second component 20, a plurality of screw holes 20G, first and second recesses 20H, 201 in the central portion 20S of the second component for interrupting the angled edges 20A, and first and second grooves for engaging with the spring clip 30 when the second component 20 is in a central position (as shown in Fig 3B). In addition, Fig 6 shows third and fourth recesses 20L, 20M in the underside of the second component 20 in areas around the first and second elongate apertures 20C, 20D, these recesses 20L, 20M being bordered by partially circular side walls 20N, 20P and a side wall 20Q which form part of the abutments 20B.

The functions of the various apertures and recesses of the second component 20 will be described further in relation to Figs 7 to 10 which illustrate how the fastening device is used to secure the artwork to a mounting panel 50 using a plurality of securing devices 60.

As shown in Figs 7 to 10, the mounting panel 50 preferably comprises a plurality of retention members with which the securing device 60s interact to releasably secure the fastening devices (and hence the artwork) to the panel 50. In a preferred arrangement, the retention members comprise a series of parallel slots 51 defined by flanges 51 A, 5 IB on each side of the slot 51 as shown in the Figures. The mounting panel 50 may for example comprise an aluminium panel 50 formed by an extrusion process to have a series of parallel slots 51 therein. It will be appreciated that the underside of the second component 20 (as described in relation to Fig 6), is shown uppermost in Figs 7 to 10 as the artwork (and the fastening device attached thereto) has been turned over so the upper surface of the second component 20 engages the mounting panel 50. The securing device 60 comprises a locking part, eg in the form of a T-bar 61, at a distal end of a shaft 62 for engaging in the slots 51 of the mounting panel 50, an engagement part 63 which, in use, engages the fastening device and a handle 64 at the proximal end of the shaft 62 for rotating the T-bar 61 through 90 degrees (as will be described further below). The engaging part 63 is able to move axially a small distance (typically a few mm) relative to the shaft 62 against the action of a spring or other resilient member (not shown) but is arranged to rotate with the shaft 62 as the handle 64 is rotated.

Figures 7 A and 7B show the fastening device located on the mounting panel 50 so the second component 20 lies substantially parallel to the slots 51 and so that the second elongate aperture 20D thereof lies over one of the slots 51 and it shows the securing device 60, with the T-bar 61 and handle 64 substantially parallel to the slots 51 prior to it being engaged with the fastening device. Figures 8 A and 8B show the securing device 60 once it has been moved into engagement with the second component 20 of the fastening device. In the position shown, the engaging part 63 engages a surface of the abutment 20B and the T-bar 61 passes through (at least partially) the second aperture 20D and (at least partially) extends into a slot 51 in the mounting panel 50. It will be appreciated that to permit this, the second aperture 20D has to be large enough to receive the T-bar 61, at least when in the orientation shown , ie when substantially parallel to the length of the second component 20. Similarly, the slot 51 in the mounting panel 50 need to be wide enough to receive the T-bar 61 in this orientation.

To secure the fastening device so that it secures the artwork to the mounting panel 50, the handle 64 is then pushed downwards, as illustrated by an arrow in Fig 9, towards the fastening device so the T-bar 61 is moved further downwards into the slot 51 to a position in which an upper surface 61 A of the T-bar (in the orientation shown) is at a slightly lower level than that defined by the undersides of the flanges 51 A, 5 IB at the sides of the slot 51. As illustrated by an arrow in Fig 10A, the handle 64 is then rotated through 90 degrees clockwise which in turn rotates the T-bar 51 through 90 degrees so that the arms of the T- bar are located beneath the flanges 51 A, 5 IB at the side so of the slot 51. As mentioned above, the engaging part 63 rotates with the handle 64 so it also rotated through 90. This rotation of the engaging part 63 rotates it to a position in which it is able to move axially (under the action of the spring mentioned above) so it moves downwards into the fourth recess 20M as shown in Fig 10B. It will be appreciated that this is due to the non-circular shape of the engaging part 63 which, as it rotates, it no longer rests on a surface of the abutment 20B but drops down into the fourth recess 20M.

In this position, the securing device 60 secures the fastening device (and hence the artwork) to the mounting panel 50. Figure 7B also shows the upper end of a bolt 64A which holds the components of the securing device 60 together in the axial direction.

In order to release the securing device 60 it needs to be turned 90 degrees anti-clockwise so that the T-bar 61 disengages from the undersides of the flanges 51 A, 5 IB and can be withdrawn through the slot 51. However, a side face 63B the non-circular perimeter of the engaging part 63 engages the end wall 20R of the abutment 20B and this prevents the engaging part 63 from being rotated. Thus, before the securing device 60 can be released, the engaging part 63 has to be moved vertically to disengage it from the end wall 20R. The engaging part 63 is shaped to have two wings 63 A at its upper end which can be engaged by a user's fingers as the user holds he handle 64 so the user can lift the engaging part 63 (against he action of the spring) so it disengages from the fourth recess 20M and can be rotated anti-clockwise though 90 degrees back to the position shown in Fig 9 so the T-bar 61 can be withdrawn from the slot 51 and the securing device 60 lifted away from the fastening device.

As described in relation to Fig 6, the first and second apertures 20C, 20D are elongated in a direction at an angle to the direction of sliding of the second component 20, preferably in a direction perpendicular thereto. The elongated nature of these apertures 20C, 20D thus makes it easier to ensure that the aperture 20D lies over a slot 51 in the mounting panel 50.

Two fastening devices will typically be secured to one side of the frame 40 of an artwork and the provision of elongate apertures 20D means that it is not necessary for these to be spaced apart by an exact multiple of the spacing of the slots 51 on the mounting panel 50 in order to ensure that the apertures 20D of both fastening devices lie over a slot in the mounting panel 50. In many cases, four fastening devices will be secured to the frame 40 of an artwork, two on each of two opposite sides of the frame 40 and the frame 40 will be mounted on the mounting panel 50 so that second components 20 of each of the fastening devices lie parallel to the length of the slots 51 in the mounting panel 50 (as shown in Figs 7 A and 10A). However, in some cases, it may be desired to secure one or more fastening devices to the other sides of the frame 40 so that the second components 20 of these devices lie perpendicular to the length of the slots 51 in the mounting panel 50. It is for his reason that the third and fourth elongated apertures 20E, 20F are provided in the second component 20. As these are elongated in a direction parallel to the length of the second component 20, they help ensure that the apertures 20E or 20F lie over a slot 51 in the mounting panel 50 so that the fastening device can be secured thereto by a securing device 60 in the manner described above in relation to Figs 7 - 10. In the preferred arranged shown, the first and second apertures 20C, 20D are located toward the respective ends of the second component 20 and the third and fourth apertures 20E, 20F are located between these and the mid-point of the second component 20 however the apertures may be arranged in other ways, eg in a reverse arrangement in which the third and fourth apertures (which are elongated in the direction of the length of the second component 20) lie toward the ends of the second component 20 and the first and second apertures (which are elongated in a direction at an angle to the length of the second component 20) lie between these and the midpoint of the second component 20.

In the embodiment described above, the first and second apertures 20C, 20D provide two functions: they provide an aperture through which the locking part 61 of the securing device 60 can be fitted and, secondly, they provide an aperture which the spring clip 30 engages to retain the second component 20 in the extended or retracted position (and provide access for a user's finger to depress the spring clip 30). Other arrangements can be envisaged in which separate apertures provide these different functions.

In addition to the first and second apertures 20C, 20D and third and fourth apertures 20E, 20F, the second component 20 may also be provided with screw holes 20G so the second component 20 can be secured to a mounting panel 50 by way of screws or other screw thread fasteners. This is an optional method of fixing which may be used in addition to or in place of the securing device 60s described above. As shown in the drawings, the dimensions of the screw holes 20G are typically

significantly smaller than the dimensions of the apertures 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F provided for receiving the locking part 61 of the securing device 60. Screw holes 20G will typically have a diameter of around 4 - 8 mm whereas the first and second apertures 20C, 20D (and the third and fourth apertures 20E, 20F) may typically have a width (in the shorter direction) in the range 10 - 20mm, and preferably around 15mm, and a length (in the longer dimension) in the range 25 - 45 mm, and preferably around 35mm. Such

dimensions enable the first and second apertures to be aligned with slots which typically have a pitch in the range 15 - 25 mm (and preferably around 20mm) without the need for precise location of the fastening devices on the artwork as described above.

As mentioned above, the second component 20 is preferably symmetrical about is centre line so that it does not matter which way round it is assembled with the first component 10. However, other arrangements can be envisaged, in particular arrangements in which the layout of holes, apertures and/or recesses therein is not symmetrical.

In the embodiment described above, the holding means of the second component 20 comprise one or more side walls 20P, 20R of a recess 20M in the underside thereof for engaging a side face 63B of the engagement part 63 of the securing device 60 so as to prevent or inhibit rotation of the engaging part 63 relative to the second component 20 and, in the preferred arrangement, at least one of the side walls is formed by a face of an upstanding abutment 20B at the end of the second component 20. Other forms of holding means for providing this function can be envisaged. One possibility would be to provide surfaces of the engaging part 63 and the second component 20 with mutually engaging projections and recesses (eg grooves and complimentary ridges) which inhibit rotation therebetween when engaged with each other. In another arrangement, the holding means may comprise a part of the second component 20 adapted to provide a high friction engagement with part of the engagement part 63 to inhibit relative rotation when they are pressed together.

As described above, in the preferred arranged, the retention members on the mounting panel 50 are provided by slots therein (and flanges defining the sides of the slot).

However, other forms of retention members can be envisaged. The slots may, for example, not be continuous but may be interrupted, eg to form a lines of shorter slots. An array of other shaped slots or apertures may also be provided across the mounting panel. In a further arrangement, the retention members may comprise members fastened to the surface of the mounting panel each of which is shaped to engage with the T-bar 61 (or other form of locking part) of the securing device 60.

Figures 11 to 17 illustrate a second embodiment of a fastening device according to the invention. The first component 10 of the second embodiment is similar to the first component of the embodiment described in relation to Figs 1 to 10 but the second component 120, although similar in many respects to that described above, has some different features. Rather than being symmetrical like the second component shown in Fig 1 with elongate apertures at each end thereof, it is provided with elongate apertures 120C and 120D towards only one end thereof, ie the distal end which in use extends from the frame of the artwork. However, as will be described further below, the second component is reversible so it can be mounted to the first component in two mutually opposite orientations. The distal end of the second component may be substantially circular about the aperture 120C as shown in Fig 11 but may have other shapes. The second component 120 is mounted to the first component 10 in a very similar manner to the mounting of the second component to the first component described in relation to Figs 2 and 3. The second component has a portion towards one (inner) end thereof (the opposite end to that having apertures 120C and 120D) having angled edges 120 A that fit within the dovetail shaped recess 10A of the first component 10. To permit assembly of the first and second component with each other, the angled edges 120 A of second component have an interrupted portions which reduce the width of the second component, Thus, as illustrated in Fig 13, the second component 120 can be assembled with the first component 10 by aligning the interrupted portion of the angled edges 120 A with the recess 10A of the first component 10 and by tilting the second component 120 and/or moving it laterally relative to the first component it can be located within the dovetail shaped recess 10A. Once it is mounted within the recess 10A (as shown in Fig 14), the second component can be slid from the first, retracted, position to a second, extended, position relative to the first component 10 as shown in Fig 15.

As in the first embodiment, limiting means are provided to inhibit the second component 120 from sliding beyond the extended position shown in Fig 15 and a retracted position shown in Fig 14 (which in this case may correspond to the mounting position). As in the first embodiment, the limiting means may comprise a spring clip 30 which is mounted in aperture 10B of the first component and engages with a substantially rectangular aperture 120E of the second component 120 and/or may comprise abutments 120B at one or both ends of the angled edges 120 A.

In the first embodiment, the apertures 20C, 20D that engage the spring clip 30 may also be used to secure the fastening device to the mounting panel. In the second embodiment, this may not be the case and the rectangular aperture 120E may be provided solely for the purpose of engaging with the spring clip 30. In an arrangement, the rectangular aperture 120E may be arranged such that the spring clip 30 can engage with the rectangular aperture 120E in order to limit movement of the second component relative to the first component for both of the two mutually opposite orientations in which the second component may be mounted to the first component. It will thus be appreciated that the manner in which the second component is assembled with the first component and is able to slide between a retracted and an extended position relative thereto, is essentially the same as described in relation to the first embodiment. Dis-assembly of the second component from the first component, for example in order to change the orientation of the second component relative to the first component, is a reverse of the assembly process, again as in the first embodiment. As in the first embodiment, the spring clip 30 can be actuated by a user's finger via the aperture 120E in the second component 120. As mentioned above, rather than being symmetrical like the embodiment illustrated in Fig 1, the second component 120 is designed so that it can be assembled with the first component in two mutually opposite orientations. Figure 15 shows them assembled in one orientation and Fig 16 shows them assembled in the opposite orientation. The orientation shown in Fig 16, may be used as a storage position, ie when the fastening device is not being used to secure the artwork to a mounting panel but it is desired to retain both the first and second components of the fastening devoice on the frame. Alternatively, the orientation shown in Fig 16 may be used with a first component is mounted on the opposite edge of the frame of the artwork so the second component extends beyond that edge so it can be used to secure the artwork to a mounting panel.

Figure 17 is a front view of a modified version of the second embodiment in which the first component is slightly wider than that shown in Figs 11 to 16. In this modified version of the first component, the abutments 120B at the end of the second component engage within cut-outs 10D of the first component. This increases the width of the area of the underside of the second component 120 that is in in contact and supported by an upper face of the first component 10. This helps ensure that the planes of the first and second components remain parallel to each other.

Figure 18 is a perspective view of a known fastening device (known as the Oz Clip - Trade Mark) which is also described in US4967993 referred to above. The Oz Clip comprises first and second which are pivotably secured to each other. The first arm 71 is secured to the frame 40 of an artwork by screws 74 and the second arm72 can be rotated relative to the first arm 71 to an extended position as shown in Fig 19. The second arm 72 is provided with one or more screw holes 75 for securing the Oz Clip to some form of mounting.

The present invention provides an improved method of securing an artwork to a mounting panel as described above in relation to Figs 7 to 10. However, the Oz Clip has been widely used in the industry and many artworks are in existence with one or more Oz Clips mounted on the back of the frame of the artwork. Whilst the Oz Clip could be removed and replaced by the first component of the present invention, the second component of the fastener described in relation to Figs 11 to 17 has an additional advantage in that it can also be mounted to the second arm of an Oz Clip (instead of being mounted to a first component 10 as described above). As best shown in Fig 11, the second component 120 has a channel 20S which is shaped to fit onto the second arm 72 of an Oz Clip and a projection 20T for locating in the screw hole 75 of an Oz Clip. Figure 20 shows the second component being slid between the Oz Clip and the frame 40 of the artwork so that the second arm 72 of the Oz Clip is received in the channel 20S. The second component is slid onto the second arm 72 at a slight angle so that the screw hole thereof is located in alignment with the projection 20T. The second component can then be moved so that the projection engages with eh screw hole and so that the plane of the second component lies parallel to the plane of the second arm 72 of the Oz Clip. It will also be seen that rebates 120V at the end of the second component that engages an edge of the first arm 71 of the Oz Clip in this position.

Figures 22 and 23 show a variation of the arrangement of the second component 220 that may be used in place of the second component 120 depicted in Figures 11 to 21. As shown, in this variation the positions of the elongate apertures 220C and 220D are reversed in comparison to those of the second component 120 depicted in Figures 11 to 21. This may result in the aperture 220C that may be most commonly used to secure the second component to the mounting panel 50 being located closest to the frame of the artwork, improving the stability.

It will be appreciated that the second component could be adapted in other ways so that it can be mounted on or secured to the second arm of an Oz Clip or to a corresponding part of some other form of existing fastening device. The second component may, for example, simply be engageable with an existing fastening device, or indeed to a first component adapted to be secured to the frame of an artwork, by means of a push-fit or snap-fit, or by means of some form of fixing, eg a threaded fixing.

The ability to modify an existing fastening device may be desirable to avoid the need to replace an existing fastening device which is already mounted on the frame of an artwork particularly when it is desirable to minimise the number of screw holes created in the frame.

The second component 120 described above (whether mounted on a first component as described in relation to Figs 11 to 17 or mounted on an existing fastening device such as the Oz Clip as described in relation to Figs 20 -21) can be secured to a mounting panel 50 by means of a securing device 60 in the same manner as is described with reference to Figs 7 to 10 in relation to the first embodiment of the invention. It will be appreciated that the elongate apertures 120C and 120D of the second component 120 of the second

embodiment correspond to the elongate apertures 20C and 20E of the second component 20 of the first embodiment. Likewise, the second component 120 of the second embodiment has a recess 120L about the aperture 120C corresponding to recess 20C of the first embodiment and this has a curved or circular sidewall 120N and an end wall 120R corresponding to the curved or circular side wall 20N and end wall 20R of the first embodiment. The manner in which the second embodiment can be used to secure the frame of an artwork to a mounting panel is this the same as described above in relation to the first embodiment. The main difference is that, in the preferred form of first embodiment (as illustrated), the second component is symmetrical so it does not matter in which orientation it is assembled with the first component. In the second embodiment, the second component is not symmetrical. It can also be assembled with the first component in two opposite directions and the appropriate direction has to be selected depending which side of the frame the first component is attached to (or if it is desired to move the second component to a storage position (as shown in Fig 16). Although the second component is preferably secured to a mounting panel 50 by means of a securing device 60 (as illustrated in Figs 7 to 10) fitted through one of the elongate apertures 120C or 120D, the second component may also be provided with one or more screw holes in case it is desired to screw it to a mounting. Figure 12 shows a screw hole 120G approximately midway along the length of the second component 120. An additional screw hole (not shown) may also be provided towards the distal end thereof, eg in the region between the aperture 120C and the adjacent end of the second component.. Furthermore, whilst in preferred arrangements the second component is mounted to the first component as described above or mounted to part of an existing fastening device already mounted on the frame of any artwork (as described further below with reference to Figs 20 to 21), it is conceivable that the second component could in some cases be mounted directly to the frame of an artwork, eg by means of screws. If this is desired one or more additional screw holes (not shown) can be provided in the second component, eg in the region between the aperture 120E and the projection 120T and/or between the aperture 120E and the adjacent end of the second component. The central screw hole 120G may be located such that it can be used to secure the component to a mounting or to secure the component to the frame of an artwork.

As with the first embodiment, the second component of the second embodiment is provided with two elongate apertures, the first aperture 120D extending substantially parallel to the length of the second component and the second aperture 120C extending at an angle thereto, preferably perpendicular to the length of the second componentl20 and to the first aperture 120D.. As discussed in relation to Fig 6 above, the apertures 120C, 120D are elongate so that when the frame of an artwork with fastening devices secured thereto is placed on a mounting panel 50 having a plurality of parallel slots 51 therein, the relevant aperture (that which is perpendicular to the slots) is long enough to ensure that it lies over one of the slots (so the fastening device can be secured to the mounting panel 50 by the securing device 60) without the need to accurately position the fastening device on the frame to achieve this. To enable this to be achieved with the fastening devices positioned at random locations on the frame, the length of the elongate aperture needs to be at least 1.0 times the spacing of the slots. This may however still require the position of the frame 40 relative to the mounting panel 50 to be finely adjusted and this may be undesirable especially with a heavy artwork. To avoid this and enable the fastening devices to be randomly positioned on the frame and the frame randomly positioned on the mounting panel (although angularly aligned therewith), the length of the elongate aperture needs to be at least 1.5 times the spacing of the slots. In a preferred arrangement, which also allows for the thickness of the securing device located w-thin the apertures, the length of the elongate aperture is 1.75 or more times the spacing of the slots. The elongate apertures preferably have parallel sides and curved ends as shown, but other shape elongate apertures may be used, eg substantially oblong or substantially oval.

The frame of an artwork may typically have four fastening devices secured thereto, eg two fastening devices on one side member of the frame and two on an opposite side member of the frame and, as shown in Figs 7 - 10, the frame 40 is preferably positioned on the mounting panel 50 so that the length of the second component 20, 120 lies parallel to the length of the slots 51 in the mounting panel 50 (or other retention members provided thereon). In this case, the elongate apertures 20C, 120C extending perpendicular to the length of the second component 20, 120 are used to received the securing device 60.

However, in some cases, it may be desirable to provide fastening devices on all four side member of the frame 40 of an artwork in which case some of the second components will extend from the frame 40 in a direction perpendicular to the slots 51 in the mounting panel 50. In this case, the elongated apertures 20D, 120D can be used to receive the securing device 60 as these apertures will lie perpendicular to the length of the slots 50. Again, the length of the elongate apertures 20D, 120D is preferably such that they lie over one of the slots 51 irrespective of their position along the frame member. An advantage of the second embodiment over the first embodiment is that the second component cam be made shorter than the second component of the first embodiment (as it has only one pair of elongate apertures therein) so it is less cumbersome to use, and uses less material (and so can be made for less cost). The weight of the second component shown in Fig 11 may be reduced by up to 40% compared to the second component shown in Fig 1. In addition, as described above, it can be used as a modifying component to modify an existing fastening device to covert it from one which is secured to a mounting in the traditional manner (typically by screws) to one which can be fastened to a mounting panel by a securing device of the type described in relation to Figs 7 - 10 (and described further in co-pending application GB 1622050.1 referred to above). Such a securing device provides many advantages over the conventional methods. As described above, in use, the first component 10, 110 of the fastening device is secured to the frame of an artwork, eg by means of screws. In many cases, the first component 10, 110 will remain on the frame when the artwork is on display and it may remain on the frame for use when the artwork is next packaged for storage or transportation. The second component 20, 120 of the fastening device is preferably releasably secureable to the first component. The second component may remain attached to the first component, eg in a retracted position (as in the first embodiment described above) or may be removed from the first component and re-attached thereto in a storage position (as in the second embodiment and shown in Fig 16) when the artwork is on display. Alternatively, in other cases, it may be desirable to detach the second component 20, 120 from the first component 10, 110 when the artwork is on display and to store the second component 20, 120 with securing device 60 and/or mounting panel 50 for use when the artwork is next packaged for storage or transportation. As described, the first and second components 10 and 20 or 110 and 120 are preferably formed from metal plates. Fixing mounted to the frames of artwork are often formed from brass but other metals or non-metallic materials may be used, for example, an. engineering polymer which emulates the strength of metal. Parts of the securing device 60, such as the handle 64 and engaging part 63, are preferably formed of a plastics material, for example polyoxymethylene POM (which is tough and has low friction properties). Other parts of the securing device, eg the bolt 64A and the locking part 61, are preferably made of metal, eg steel. For the avoidance of doubt, the verb "comprise" as used herein has its normal dictionary meaning, ie to denote non-exclusive inclusion. The use of the word "comprise" (or any of its derivatives) does not therefore exclude the possibility of further features being included.

All of the features disclosed in this specification (including the accompanying claims, and drawings) may also be combined in any combination (other than combinations where the features are mutually exclusive). Each feature disclosed in this specification (including the accompanying claims and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is just an example of a generic series of features providing an equivalent or similar function.

The invention is not restricted to the details of the embodiments described. The invention extends to a container and/or closure which comprises one or more of the features referred to above, or any other novel concept, feature, or combination of the features disclosed herein.