Field of the invention

The present invention relates generally to the field of wall decorations. More specifically, in a first aspect the present invention relates to a system for a wall decoration comprising two or more frame elements configured for being attached to each other in various orientations. In a second aspect, the present invention relates to a kit of parts comprising a system according to the first aspect combined with a set of artwork colours. In a third aspect, the present invention relates to a use of a system according to the first aspect or of a kit of parts according to the second aspect for providing a wall decoration. In a fourth aspect, the present invention relates to a method for decorating a wall. In a fifth aspect the present invention relates to a room partitioning system.

Background of the invention Within the field of interior decorations in private homes, private offices and public venues it is customary to decorate walls with some kind of artwork. Such types of artwork are typically paintings, drawings, photographic prints, graphic reproductions, lithographs or off-set print, written statements or other types of print.

It has for long time been considered an established fact that colours affect human's mental state of mind. This is true in respect of business offices where colours are used to instigate for example a creative, calm or energetic feeling.

It is desired that wall decorations exhibit some kind of relationship with the surroundings. This means that when the surrounding changes, it is desired that the wall decoration changes as well. Therefore it is advantageous to provide wall decoration systems which allow for altering the visual expression without the need to completely exchange that system, with a new system having another visual expression.

Such systems are known from the prior art. US 2016/0135619 Al discloses a modular display system. The system comprises a number of modules, each comprising an outer frame in the interior of which decorations or other types of display, such as photographs may be arranged. The outer frame of each module comprises magnets configured to enter into magnetic attraction with other magnets in adjacently arranged modules. In this way a number of modules each comprising its own individual decoration or visual expression may be coupled together so as to form a coherent assembly of individually framed decorations. The modular display system in US 2016/0135619 Al does not provide a number of modules which may be put together so as to give the impression of a single coherent piece of artwork. This is because the frame parts of each module visibly surrounds the decoration of that individual module, thereby exposing these frame parts.

It is an objective of the present invention to provide improved systems for making wall decorations. Specifically it is the objective of the present invention to provide a decoration system comprising individual elements which can be assembled in a variety of different way, thereby changing the visual expression of an artwork and yet still giving the impression of a single coherent piece of artwork.

Brief description of the invention

This objective is fulfilled with the present invention in its various aspects.

Accordingly, the present invention in its first aspect relates to a system for a wall decoration, said system in the orientation intended during use as a wall decoration comprises two or more frame elements; wherein each said frame element comprises a frame, said frame comprises three or more side parts; wherein each said side part is comprising a first fac for facing a viewer, and wherein each said side part is comprising a second face arranged opposite to said first face, and for facing a wall; wherein in respect of each said frame element, said side parts collectively defines an outer surface; wherein each said frame is comprising a first cover, said first cover is being fastened to said first face of each side part, thereby covering the area confined by said outer surface of said frame elements; wherein each said side part is comprising two or more magnets being embedded in an associated cavity therein at an outer surface thereof; wherein each said magnet is aligned or is configured to be able to be aligned in such a way that the direction defined by its magnetic polarity is essentially parallel to said cover, and in such a way that that the direction defined by its magnetic polarity essentially is being perpendicular to the part of the outer surface defined by said side part. In a second aspect the present invention relates to a kit of parts comprising a system according to the first aspect of the invention combined with a set of artwork colours, such as acrylic colours or oil colours, and optionally also combined with one or more brushes and/or a palette for allowing an owner to provide his/her own desired decoration; wherein said first cover and optionally said second cover is/are a canvas. In a third aspect the present invention relates to a the use of a system according to the first aspect of the invention or of a kit of parts according to the second aspect of the invention for providing a wall decoration.

In a fourth aspect the present invention relates to a method for decorating a wall comprising the steps of: i) providing a system according to the first aspect of the invention; or a kit of parts according to the first aspect of the invention; ii) optionally providing the canvas covers of the frame elements of the kit of parts with colours so as to provide decorative covers; iii) placing the two or more frame elements on a wall in such a way that the magnets embedded in one side part of one frame element enters into engagement, via magnetic attraction, with the magnets embedded in one side part of another frame element, thereby forming a coherent wall decoration comprising the two or more frame elements of the system.

In a fifth aspect the present invention relates to a room partitioning system comprising, in the orientation intended during use, two or more essentially vertical posts, wherein said system furthermore comprises two or more frame elements as defined in respect of the system according to the first aspect of the present invention.

The present invention in its various aspects is easy and cost efficient in the manufacture, easy to use and provides for making a great number of combinations of the visual expression of a decorative artwork from only a few basic elements.

The system allows for store owners to change colours and incorporate statements in their wall decoration, simply by changing or switching parts of their existing wall decoration. This also applies in respect of meeting rooms where one may desire to change meeting participants state of mind from focused to creative. Additionally, blackboard or whiteboard surfaces may form part of the cover to be displayed to the viewer.

The system also allows for hospitals to change the interior of a recovery room. Normally recovery rooms are white-walled to be neutral in it appearance. This is done so one room is not only usable for a specific type of patient. The system allows for changes to be made from one room to the other, so that the room can instigate calmness one day and an energetic feeling the next.

The system will allow people to change their surroundings in a less expensive way, so that one can change a rooms appearance following for example the change of season, with new furniture or accessories used in interior design.

For example, if one wishes to decorate a wall with a system according to the present invention, where the system comprises four frame elements, each having a square shape in a configuration forming a two by two square, there will be four possibilities for placing the first frame element in the upper left corner, three possibilities for placing one of the remainder elements in the upper right corner, two possibilities for placing one of the remainder elements in the lower left corner and one possibility for choosing the frame element of the last lower right corner.

This means that there are 4 x 3 x 2 x 1 = 24 possibilities for arranging the four frame elements in a two by two square. Now, as each frame element may be oriented in four different orientations (each orientation being turned 90° compared to another orientation), there are (4 x 3 x 2 x 1) x (4 x 4 x 4 x 4) = 6, 144 different possibilities of orienting the four square frame elements in a two by two square. In case, each frame element in addition comprises a decorative cover on two sides thereof, there are (4 x 3 x 2 x l) x (4 x 4 x 4 x 4) x (2 x 2 x 2 x 2) = 98,304 different possibilities for arranging the four frame elements in a two by two square.

If each cover is decorated with a different decoration and if no cover decoration is symmetrical, there will accordingly with the system of the present invention be 98,303 possibilities of different decorations with the outset of only four square shaped frame elements.

Accordingly, with a very simple system the present invention in its first aspect provides for a tremendously huge number of variations as to decoration possibilities.

Moreover, as the cover of each frame element extends all the way to the outer surface of the frame element, there will virtually be no gap between adjacent frame elements, when assembled, and thereby the system gives the impression of an aesthetic, single coherent decoration.

In the system of the invention the frame elements may be configured in such a way that upon being assembled to a system, the surface of each cover of each frame element essentially defines a common plane.

Brief description of the figures

Fig. 1 is a plan view illustrating a decorative system according to the present invention hanging on a wall.

Fig. 2a is a perspective exploded view illustrating some of the elements making up the decorative system according to the present invention.

Fig. 2b is a perspective exploded view illustrating some of the elements making up another embodiment of the decorative system according to the present invention. Fig. 3 is a plan view showing the principle of arrangement of magnets in the individual frame elements of the system according to the present invention.

Fig. 4a is a plan view illustrating one combination of individual frame elements making up the system according to the present invention. Fig. 4b is a plan view illustrating another combination of individual frame elements making up the system according to the present invention.

Fig. 4c is a plan view illustrating yet another combination of individual frame elements making up the system according to the present invention. Fig. 5a is a cross-sectional view showing one embodiment of an arrangement of a magnet in a side part of a frame of the system of the present invention.

Fig. 5b is a cross-sectional view showing another embodiment of an arrangement of a magnet in a side part of a frame of the system of the present invention.

Fig. 5c is a cross-sectional view showing yet another embodiment of an arrangement of a magnet in a side part of a frame of the system of the present invention.

Fig. 5d is a cross-sectional view showing a still alternative embodiment of an arrangement of a magnet in a side part of a frame of the system of the present invention.

Fig. 6a is a perspective view of a situation in which a bar magnet is about to be made rotable suspended according to a first embodiment. Fig 6b is a perspective view of a situation in which a bar magnet is about to be made rotable suspended according to another embodiment.

Fig. 7 is a side view illustrating a room partitioning system according to a fifth aspect of the present invention.

Detailed description of the invention

The first aspect of the present invention

The present invention relates in a first aspect relates to a system for a wall decoration, said system in the orientation intended during use as a wall decoration comprises two or more frame elements; wherein each said frame element comprises a frame, said frame comprises three or more side parts; wherein each said side part is comprising a first face for facing a viewer, and wherein each said side part is comprising a second face arranged opposite to said first face, and for facing a wall; wherein in respect of each said frame element, said side parts collectively defines an outer surface; wherein each said frame is comprising a first cover, said first cover is being fastened to said first face of each side part, thereby covering the area confined by said outer surface of said frame elements; wherein each said side part is comprising two or more magnets being embedded in an associated cavity therein at an outer surface thereof; wherein each said magnet is aligned or is configured to be able to be aligned in such a way that the direction defined by its magnetic polarity is essentially parallel to said cover, and in such a way that that the direction defined by its magnetic polarity essentially is being perpendicular to the part of the outer surface defined by said side part. The system design according to the various aspects of the present invention allows all frames to be interlocked with one and the other in an easy and yet safe manner. This is brought about by the presence of magnets in the side parts of the frame elements. The user can fast and easily change and reshape the appearance of their wall decoration in relation to shape, colour and surface by simply rearranging the position and orientation of one or more frame elements in relation to each other.

There are only three shapes known that allows one to keep adding to expand the size and shape without leaving air gaps in between each frame element. These three shapes are triangles, tetragons and hexagons and these are able to tessellate by themselves.

The principle of tessellating regular shapes may be used as basis for the building principle of the system of the first aspect of the present invention. Each frame may be defined and divided into square units. This means that every size of frames can be divided into a number of squared fixed units.

The length of the squared unit may be fixed in size so that the interlocking always lines up and the frame elements can continuously be tessellated. The present invention allows to embed zodiacs, statements and selected surfaces of the system frames, so that the different surfaces are portrait as one continues decoration.

The outer surface of each frame element may accordingly be interpreted as comprising an assembly of side part outer surfaces, wherein each side part is associated with its own specific side part outer surface. The cover of the frame element is preferably having an extension so that it extends all the way out to the most distant side part outer surfaces of that frame element.

The covers of the frame elements can be changed to whiteboard, blackboard, glass or any other desired surface to fulfil the need of the user. Therefore existing wall decoration can be changed to embed new members to the family names, zodiacs, photographs or words of meaning for the user.

The frame elements of the system may be fitted with sound proofing insulation, so that the users can soundproof part of a wall and leave other parts of the wall decoration to allow for sound reflection. The frame elements of the system in case provided with a two-sided decoration allows the system to be used as building blocks for office cubicles or room dividers. A two-sided frame element combined with sound proofing is ideal for office cubicles. The system accordingly allows the user to change shape and height of the surrounding office environment. The surfaces of the system can embed for example company slogans or fitted with whiteboard, bulletin-board or any other surface desired.

In one embodiment of the system according to the first aspect of the present invention said frame element, in respect of one or more of said frame elements, comprises three or more side parts being connected to each other, wherein each side part comprises an inner surface, thereby forming a void in the area within the inner surfaces of the side parts of said specific frame element.

In this embodiment the amount of material used for the frame elements can be minimized due to the void formed in the middle of the frame elements.

In one embodiment of the system according to the first aspect of the present invention said frame element, in respect of one or more of said frame elements comprises a block of material, thereby forming an outer surface; said block essentially filling out the space confined between the outer surfaces of the respective side parts of that frame element.

In this embodiment the side parts of a frame element may be interpreted to comprise a portion of the block of material, extending from the outer surface of the frame element and hence from the outer surface of the block of material.

Moreover, in this embodiment the first face of the side part may be interpreted as comprising that part of the block of material which is to be arranged opposite to the wall and which is present near the outer surface of the block of material. Likewise, in this embodiment the second face of the side part may be interpreted as comprising that part of the block of material which is to be facing the wall and which is present near the outer surface of the block of material.

Using a block of material, such as polystyrene, may in other embodiments provide for a cost efficient production of the frame elements.

In one embodiment of this embodiment according to the first aspect of the present invention said block of material is being surrounded by a reinforcing rim.

Hereby is achieved that the outer surface of the side parts are less susceptible for being damage during rearrangement and/or transport of the frame elements. Furthermore, the reinforcing rim may act as a stopper for the magnets, thereby holding the magnets in place in the block of material. In one embodiment of the system according to the first aspect of the present invention said two or more magnets, in respect of each said side part, are being aligned or is configured to be able to be aligned with alternating polarity.

Hereby is ensured that individual frame elements can be attached to each other by magnetic attraction, yet still providing for possibilities of rearrangement of the various frame elements in relation to each other.

In one embodiment of the system according to the first aspect of the present invention said frame element, in respect of one or more of said frame elements, additionally is comprising a second cover, said second cover is being fastened to a said second face of each side part of said frame element, thereby covering the area confined by the outer surface of said frame element at a side thereof opposite to said first cover. Hereby is provided even more permutations in relations to the number of possible ways of assembling two or more frame elements to each other in order to obtain a wall decoration.

In one embodiment of the system according to the first aspect of the present invention the outer surface of said frame element, in respect of one or more of said frame elements, independently defines the shape of a triangle, such as an equilateral triangle, a hexagon; or a rectangle, such as a square.

These are the three types of geometrical shapes that allow combination to a tessellating combination.

In one embodiment of the system according to the first aspect of the present invention the outer surface of said frame element, in respect of one or more of said frame elements, preferably in respect of all said frame elements, independently defines the shape of a rectangle, wherein said rectangle is having the shape and a size corresponding to an integer number of a square having a predefined unit size.

Hereby it can easily be ensured that the positions of magnets at the outer surface of the side parts of the various frame elements fit in such a way that a large number of possibilities of assembling those frame elements will result.

In one embodiment of the system according to the first aspect of the present invention each of the frame elements are having the same shape and/or dimension(s).

Hereby a more aesthetic visual expression will result.

In one embodiment of the system according to the first aspect of the present invention each of the frame elements are not having the same shape and/or dimension(s).

Hereby an alternative aesthetic visual expression will result.

In one embodiment of the system according to the first aspect of the present invention the number of frame elements N is an integer in the range 2 - 50, such as 3 - 45, for example 4 - 40, such as 5 - 35, for example 6 - 30, such as 7 - 25, e.g. 8 - 20, such as 9 - 18, such as 10 - 17, for example 11 - 18, e.g. 12 - 17, such as 13 - 16 or 14 - 15.

These numbers allow for a huge number of altering the position and orientation of the frame elements, thus resulting in very many different ways of assembling the individual frame elements to the decoration system. In one embodiment of the system according to the first aspect of the present invention the number of embedded magnets in a specific side part, in respect of one or more of said frame elements, independently is 2 - 21, such as 3 - 20, for example 4 - 19, such as 5 - 18, e.g. 6 - 17, such as 7 - 16, for example 8 - 15, such as 9 - 14, e.g. 10 - 13 or 11 - 12. These numbers of magnets will provide for a safe and secure fastening of individual frame elements to each other.

In one embodiment of the system according to the first aspect of the present invention each side part of each frame element having the same length of outer surface are comprising an equal number of magnets. This will ensure an optimum number of combinations of individual frame elements.

In one embodiment of the system according to the first aspect of the present invention the mutual distance between magnets at a side part, in respect of one or more of said frame elements, is equal; and/or the two outermost magnets are arranged at locations of same distance from the corresponding outer corner of that side part. This will ensure an optimum number of combinations of individual frame elements in relation to each other.

In one embodiment of the system according to the first aspect of the present invention the mutual distance M between locations of two adjacent magnets at the same side part, in respect of one or more of said frame elements is: M = S/N, wherein S defines the outer length of the side part; and wherein N is the number of magnets embedded at said side part.

This will ensure an optimum number of combinations of individual frame elements.

In one embodiment of the system according to the first aspect of the present invention and in respect of one or more of said frame elements, the distance D from the outer corner of a side part to the location of each of the two outermost magnets is D = S/2N, wherein S defines the outer length of the side part; and wherein N is the number of magnets embedded at said side part.

This will ensure an optimum number of combinations of individual frame elements in relation to each other. In one embodiment of the system according to the first aspect of the present invention and in respect of one or more frame elements, the side length of one or more of its side parts independently is selected from the ranges of 10 - 400 cm, such as 20 - 350 cm, e.g. 30 - 300 cm, such as 40 - 250 cm, for example 50 - 200 cm, such as 75 - 180 cm, such as 100 - 160 cm, for example 120 - 150 cm or 130 - 140 cm.

These lengths are appropriate for use with the system of the invention in most applications.

In one embodiment of the system according to the first aspect of the present invention the first cover arranged on the first face of the side parts and optionally also the cover arranged on the second face of the side parts independently is/are being selected from the group comprising: paper, cardboard, canvas; whiteboard for enabling writing thereon with a whiteboard pen; black board for enabling writing thereon with a chalk, glass or Plexiglas, for example glass or Plexiglas combined with light or stickers arranged on the inside of the first face and/or the second face.

These embodiments result in a wide variety of decorations. In one embodiment of the system according to the first aspect of the present invention and in respect of one or more of said frame elements, the outer surface of one or more side parts of said frame element is comprising wall suspension means for suspending said frame element and thereby said system to a wall.

In one embodiment of this embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention said wall suspension means comprises a bar of a ferromagnetic material, wherein a string or a wire has been attached to said bar.

Hereby the system can easily be hung on a wall.

In one embodiment of the system according to the first aspect of the present invention and in respect of one or more side parts of one or more frame elements, the direction of the polarity of the magnets embedded in said side part, relative to said side part, is fixed.

Hereby is ensured an simple construction of the system.

In one embodiment of the system according to the first aspect of the present invention and in respect of one or more of said magnets, said magnet is being fixed in said cavity, e.g. by gluing; or each said magnet is being fixed in a magnet holder, which magnet holder in turn is allowed to move in a lengthwise direction, relative to said side part in said cavity, thereby allowing for flexibility as to the exact location of said magnet.

Flexibility of the exact position of the magnets allows for easy assembly of various frame elements into the system. In one embodiment of the system according to the first aspect of the present invention and in respect of one or more of said frame elements, the magnets embedded in one or more side parts of said frame element are configured for being able to rotate, thereby being configured for altering the direction of polarity of said magnet between two opposite directions.

By making the magnets able to rotate, thereby altering the direction of polarity between two opposite directions it is made possible that each magnet will always provide magnetic attraction to a magnet arranged in its vicinity.

In one embodiment of this embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention and in respect of one or more of said magnets and its/their associated cavity/cavities, said magnet and its associated cavity are having dimensions which allow the magnet to rotate within said cavity and wherein each magnet is accommodated loosely in said cavity.

In one embodiment of the system according to the first aspect of the present invention and in respect of one or more of said magnets and its/their associated cavity/cavities, said cavity extends all the way through the outer surface of said side part thereby forming an opening in said outer surface; wherein said opening and said magnet are having sizes and dimensions which prevents the magnet from fully penetrating said opening; said magnet optionally being a spherical magnet.

By making the magnets able to rotate, thereby altering the direction of polarity between two opposite directions it is made possible that each magnet will always provide magnetic attraction to a magnet arranged in its vicinity. In one embodiment of the system according to the first aspect of the present invention and in respect of one or more of said magnets, said magnet is being ratably suspended in a magnet holder by magnet suspension means.

This embodiment allows non-spherical magnets to rotate. In one embodiment of this embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention said magnet suspension means comprises a pin penetrating said magnet at a position between the two magnetic poles of the magnet; or wherein said magnet suspension means is in the form of a spring grapping around the magnet and being provided with pivoting means. These embodiments are suitable for use with non-spherical magnets.

In one embodiment of the system according to the first aspect of the present invention and in respect of one or more side parts of one or more of said frame elements, the cavity embedding a magnet is having a size in a lengthwise direction of said side part, compared to the size of the magnet embedded, which allows for flexibility as to the exact location of said magnet and/or said magnet holder.

Flexibility of the exact position of the magnets allows for easy assembly of various frame elements into the system.

In one embodiment of the system according to the first aspect of the present invention and in respect of one or more side parts of one or more of said frame elements said magnets independently is being selected from the group comprising: rod magnets spherical magnets, cube magnets, cone magnets, ring magnets, disc magnets and block magnets.

These types of magnets are useful with the system of the invention.

In one embodiment of the system according to the first aspect of the present invention the two or more magnets independently is being selected from the group comprising: neodymium magnets, pot magnets and ferrite magnets.

These types of magnetic materials are useful with the system of the invention.

In one embodiment of the system according to the first aspect of the present invention and in respect of one or more of said frame elements, said side part, said first cover and optionally also said second cover are provided with fastening means for allowing exchange of the first cover and optionally also the second cover.

Hereby even more variations in relation to the visual expressions of the decorative system in provided.

In one embodiment of the system according to the first aspect of the present invention and in respect of one or more of said frame elements, said one or more of said side parts is/are being made of wood, a polymer, such as a foamed polymer, such as polystyrene; or a combination thereof.

In one embodiment of the system according to the first aspect of the present invention and in respect of one or more of said frame elements, one or more of said side parts at the first face thereof, and optionally also at the second face thereof, are being planar.

This ensures easy fastening of the first cover and/or the second cover.

In one embodiment of the system according to the first aspect of the present invention and in respect of one or more of said frame elements, said first cover and optionally also said second cover is provided with an art work, such as a figurative or non-figurative image, such as composed of shades and/or nuances selected from the group of black, white, and/or one or more colours.

Hereby a decorative expression is obtained with the system.

In one embodiment of the system according to the first aspect of the present invention one or more of the magnets is/are exchanged with a magnetic material, not itself forming a magnet, such as a ferromagnetic material, such as iron or steel.

Hereby costs in purchasing magnets can be reduced.

The second aspect of the present invention

In a second aspect the present invention relates to a kit of parts comprising a system according to the first aspect of the invention combined with a set of artwork colours, such as acrylic colours or oil colours, and optionally also combined with one or more brushes and/or a palette for allowing an owner to provide his/her own desired decoration; wherein said first cover and optionally said second cover is/are a canvas.

The third aspect of the present invention

In a third aspect the present invention relates to a use of a system according to the first aspect of the invention or of a kit of parts according to the second aspect of the invention for providing a wall decoration. The fourth aspect of the present invention

In a fourth aspect the present invention relates to a method for decorating a wall comprising the steps of: i) providing a system according to the first aspect of the invention; or a kit of parts according to the first aspect of the invention; ii) optionally providing the canvas covers of the frame elements of the kit of parts with colours so as to provide decorative covers; iii) placing the two or more frame elements on a wall in such a way that the magnets embedded in one side part of one frame element enters into engagement, via magnetic attraction, with the magnets embedded in one side part of another frame element, thereby forming a coherent wall decoration comprising the two or more frame elements of the system.

The fifth aspect of the present invention In a fifth aspect the present invention relates to a room partitioning system comprising, in the orientation intended during use, two or more essentially vertical posts, wherein said system furthermore comprises two or more frame elements as defined in respect of the system according to the first aspect of the present invention.

In one embodiment of the room partitioning system according to the fifth aspect of the present invention said two or more posts each comprises a foot for providing stability to said posts.

This ensures a stable room partitioning system.

In one embodiment of the room partitioning system according to the fifth aspect of the present invention said post is manufactured from or is provided with a ferromagnetic surface, such as iron or steel. Hereby it is ensured that the magnets of the system is able to attract itself, by magnetic attraction, to the posts. Referring now to the drawings for further illustration of the invention in its various aspects, fig. 1 is a plan view illustrating a decorative system according to the present invention. Fig. 1 show the decorative system 100 comprising a total of 14 frame elements 2. The frame elements are mosaicked combined in to combination forming a rectangle. The smallest frame elements 2 are having shape and dimensions so as to form a square with unit size l x l . Each of the other elements 2 of the system 100 are having a shape and a size so as to form a rectangle (i.e. a square or a non-square) having a shape and size corresponding to an integer times the unit size of 1 x 1. It can be seen that the system 100 of fig. 1 is composed of three squares having size l x l; three rectangles having size 2 x 1; six rectangles having size 4 x 1; and two rectangles having size 3 x 2.

The front of each frame element is covered by a first cover 16 which is having an extension that allows it to abut a similar first cover 16 of an adjacent frame element 2 so that no significant gap is present between the two adjacent covers 16.

The decorative system 100 of fig. 1 is hung on a wall 12 by means of a wall suspension means 32.

The suspension means may also be placed inside one of the frame elements and thereby be not visible in use. Generally, the suspension only requires one fixture point the remaining frames are hung onto the suspended frame element. The suspension can be performed in a traditional manner with nails/screws or via magnetic attraction in the form of a bracket of a material.

Fig. 2a is a perspective exploded view illustrating some of the elements making up the decorative system according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 2a shows a frame element 2 comprising a frame 4, which in turn comprises four side parts 6,6',6"6" ' . The side parts 6,6', 6"6" ' of the frame collectively defines a first face 8 which is planar. Furthermore, the side parts 6,6', 6"6" ' collectively defines an outer surface 14 and an inner surface 22. Finally, the side parts 6,6', 6"6" ' collectively defines a second face 10 (not visible in fig. 2a). The frame 4 is simple manufactured by joining together the four side parts the side parts 6,6', 6"6" ' and the four inner surfaces of the side parts 6,6', 6"6"' thereby defines a void V in the space confined by the inner surfaces 22. On top of the frame 4 is arranged, at a first face 8 thereof, a first cover 16. In fig. 2a the cover is illustrated without any decoration but usually the top surface of the first cover will be provided with some kind of artwork for a decoration purpose.

The cover 16 has dimensions and a shape similar to the outer perimeter defined by the outer surface 14 of the frame 4. In this way, when attaching two or more frame elements to each other, there will be only an insignificant gap between any two adjacent frame elements of the system according to the invention, when being used for the intended purpose as a wall decoration. Further, the frames 4 themselves will not be visible.

Fig. 2b is a perspective exploded view illustrating some of the elements making up a decorative system according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 2b shows a frame element 2 comprising a frame 4 and a first cover 16 and a reinforcing rim 26. The frame comprises in the embodiment shown in fig. 2b a block of material 24.

The block of material comprises four side parts 6,6', 6"6" '. The side parts 6,6',6"6" ' of the frame collectively defines a first face 8 which is planar. Moreover, the side parts 6,6',6"6' " collectively defines an outer surface 14. Finally, the side parts 6,6', 6" 6" ' collectively defines a second face 10 (not visible in fig. 2b). The frame 4 is simple manufactured a sheet material into the desired shape and the four outer surfaces of the side parts 6,6', 6" 6" ' thereby defines an area A of block material in the space confined by the outer surfaces 14. On top of the frame 4 is arranged, at a first face 8 thereof, a first cover 16. In fig. 2b the cover is illustrated without any decoration but again, usually the top surface of the first cover will be provided with some kind of artwork for a decoration purpose.

The cover 16 has dimensions and a shape similar to the outer perimeter defined by the outer surface 14 of the frame 4. In this way, when attaching two or more frame elements to each other, there will be only an insignificant gap between any two adjacent frame elements of the system according to the invention, when being used for the intended purpose as a wall decoration. Further, the frames 4 themselves will not be visible

In fig. 2b is furthermore illustrated cavities 20 for accommodating a magnet 18. The cavities 20 simple consists of bore holes in the material of the block 24. A reinforcing rim 26 of for example sheet metal, such as sheet aluminum is arranged on the outer surface 14 of the block 24. Thereby, the reinforcing rim 26 both serves the purpose of reinforcement providing improved mechanical strength and secondly acts as the means for holding the magnets 18 in the cavities 20 into place. The reinforcing rim 26 may be glued to the outer surface 14.

Fig. 3 is a plan view showing the principle of arrangement of magnets in the individual frame elements of the system according to the present invention.

Fig. 3 shows a system 100 (for illustration purposes however shown with the covers 16 removed) comprising three frame elements 2. The lower two frame elements each defines the shape of a perimeter of a square and the upper frame element 2 defines the perimeter of a rectangle having the size of two such squares.

Each frame element comprises four side parts 6,6',6"6" ' being connected to each other.

Each side part 6,6', 6"6" ' comprises an outer surface 14, an inner surface 22, a first face 8 and a second face 10 (not seen in fig. 3).

Each side part 6,6', 6"6" ' of the frame comprises a number of magnets 18 arranged in cavities at an outer surface of the side part. As it can be seen in fig. 3 the polarity of the magnets in going from one magnet to the next adjacent magnet alternates. This is denoted in fig 3 by "plusses" (+) and "minuses" (-) meaning magnetic north pole and magnetic south pole respectively.

Arranging the magnets this way provides for great flexibility in terms of variations in the possible ways that each frame element may be connected to an adjacent frame element.

In the system of fig. 3 the relative dimensions of each frame element has cleverly been chosen in such a way that any frame element has dimensions corresponding to an integer times the dimensions of a unit square, which is the square defined by one of the two lower square elements.

Furthermore, in the system of fig. 3 the dimensions of the side length S of a side part 6,6', 6"6"' of any frame element and the number of magnets and the position of each magnet has been chosen in such a way that the mutual distance M between locations of two adjacent magnets 18 at the same side part is: M = S/N; wherein S defines the outer length, between the two outer corners 30 of the side part; and wherein N is the number of magnets embedded at said side part.

Likewise, in the system of fig. 3 the distance D from the outer corner 30 of a side part 6,6', 6", 6" ' to the location of each of the two outermost magnets 18 is D = S/2N, wherein S defines the outer length of the side part, between the two outer corners 30 ; and wherein N is the number of magnets embedded at said side part.

By following these instructions as to choice of the relative dimensions of the side length of each frame element 2, the number and positions of magnets, great flexibility will be achieved in relation to the number of combinatorial possibilities of arranging each frame element 2 in a system 100 for a wall decoration in relation to each other.

It is noted in fig. 3 that the distance M between any two adjacent magnets 18 in the lower two square frames 4 is the same as the distance between any two adjacent magnets 18 in the upper rectangular frame 4.

Fig. 4a is a plan view illustrating one combination of individual frame elements making up the system according to the present invention. Fig. 4a shows a system 100 for a wall decoration comprising twelve rectangular frame elements composed in pattern of a rectangle of 4 x 3 frame elements.

Fig. 4b is a plan view illustrating another combination of individual frame elements making up the system according to the present invention. Fig. 4b shows a system 100 for a wall decoration comprising seven regular hexagons arranged together.

Fig. 4c is a plan view illustrating yet another combination of individual frame elements making up the system according to the present invention. In fig. 4c nine regular or equilateral triangles have been arranged together.

For the sake of simplicity, in fig. 4a, 4b and 4c the frame elements are depicted without any artwork on the first cover of the frame elements.

Fig. 5a is a cross-sectional view showing one embodiment of an arrangement of a magnet in a side part of a frame of the system of the present invention. Fig. 5a shows the side part 6 of a frame. The side part comprises a first face 8 and a second face 10 and an outer surface 14 and an inner surface 22. On the first face a first cover 16 comprising an artwork is arranged.

From the inner surface 22 a cylindrical bore has been made. This bore forms the cavity 20. In the cavity 20 a bar magnet 18 has been arranged. This magnet has been fixed in the cavity 20 by gluing with glue 50. A magnet cover 48 fastened on the inner surface 22 prevents the magnet 18 from falling out in case it becomes loose. The double arrow X indicates that the direction of polarity of the magnet 18 is aligned perpendicular to the outer surface 14 and parallel to the first face 8 and to the first cover 16. Fig. 5b is a cross-sectional view showing another embodiment of an arrangement of a magnet in a side part of a frame of the system of the present invention.

Fig. 5b shows the side part 6 of a frame. The side part comprises a first face 8 and a second face 10 and an outer surface 14 and an inner surface 22. On the first face 8 a first cover 16 comprising an artwork is arranged. Additionally, on the second face 10 a second cover 28 comprising an artwork is arranged.

Again, from the inner surface 22 a cylindrical bore has been made. This bore forms the cavity 20. In the cavity 20 a spherical magnet 18 has been arranged so as to be able to rotate within said cavity 20. The magnet cover 48 on the inner surface 22 again secures the magnet 18 from falling out. The double arrow X indicates the direction of polarity of the magnet 18. As the magnet 18 is loosely arranged within the cavity 20, the direction polarity X is aligned in a random direction. However, as soon as a corresponding and adjacent side part is aligned with having similar magnet 18 in its associated cavity 20, the spherical magnet shown in fig. 5b will align itself with that other magnet so as to attain a direction of polarity which is perpendicular to the outer surface 14 and parallel to the first face 8 and to the first cover 16. Fig. 5c is a cross-sectional view showing yet another embodiment of an arrangement of a magnet in a side part of a frame of the system of the present invention.

Fig. 5c shows part of a side part 6 of a frame element of a system according to the first aspect of the present invention. The side part comprises a cavity 20 at an outer surface 14 of the side part. The cavity 20 has been provided by use of a cylinder drill which has been drilling the side part 6 from an inner surface 22 thereof. The bore of the drill has been drilled partly through the material of the side part in such a way that a middle part of the bore completely penetrates the side part 6, whereas the outer circumference of the dill is not drill all the way through. This leaves behind as part of the side of the cavity 20, the stopper 52.

After drilling a spherical magnet 18 is arranged in the bore and a bore plug 54 is fixed in the bore, such as by gluing. This embodiment allows the magnet 18 to have good contact with another magnet in its vicinity, thereby provides for good and secure fastening of the corresponding frame element to surrounding frame elements.

Fig. 5d is a cross-sectional view showing an alternative embodiment of an arrangement of a magnet in a side part of a frame of the system of the present invention. Fig. 5d shows the side part 6 of a frame element. The side part 6 comprises a first face 8 and a second face 10 and an outer surface 14 and an inner surface 22. On the first face a first cover 16 comprising an artwork is arranged.

From the outer surface 14 a cylindrical bore has been made. This bore forms the cavity 20. In the cavity 20 a rod magnet 18 has been arranged. This magnet has been fixed in the cavity 20 by being squeezing into the cavity 20. Alternatively the magnet 18 may be fixed by gluing. Still alternative, the magnets may be hold in place in the bore hole by serving into a bore hole a small screw blocking the exit opening for the magnet. The double arrow X indicates that the direction of polarity of the magnet 18 is aligned perpendicular to the outer surface 14 and parallel to the first face 8 and to the first cover 16. Fig. 6a is a perspective view of a situation in which a bar magnet is about to be made rotable suspended according to a first embodiment.

Fig. 6a shows the bar magnet which has been provided with a magnet suspension means 36 in the form of a pin 38. The pin 38 penetrates the magnet at a position midway between its opposite north and south poles 40,40' . Subsequently, the magnet 18 with the pin 38 is arranged in a magnet holder 35 which has provided with pin holes 35 for accommodation of the pin 38 of the magnet.

Finally, the magnet with the pin 38 and arranged in the magnet holder 34 may be arranged in a cavity 20 at an outer surface of a side part of a frame element of a system according to the present invention. Fig 6b is a perspective view of a situation in which a bar magnet is about to be made rotable suspended according to another embodiment.

Fig. 6b shows suspension means 36 in the form of a spring 42. The spring is configured in such a way that if fits tightly around the bar magnet 18, thereby fixing the spring 48 of the magnet 18.

The spring is provided with opposite pointing pins 38 which fit into pin holes 35 in the magnet holder 34.

Finally, the magnet 18 with the spring 42 and the pins 38 which has been arranged in the magnet holder 34 may be arranged in a cavity 20 at an outer surface of a side part of a frame element of a system according to the present invention.

Fig. 7 is a side view illustrating a room partitioning system according to a fifth aspect of the present invention.

Fig. 7 shows a floor 56 onto which to vertical posts 58 are placed. Each post 58 comprises a flat foot 60. The posts are made of a magnetic material, such as steel or iron. Between the two posts 58 are arranged a decorative system 100 according to the first aspect of the present invention. The system 100 comprises four frame element 2 which by means of their embedded magnets are brought into contact which each other so as to form a coherent structure which will act as a room partitioning system 200 for use in for example an office environment. The frame elements 2 are being fastened to the vertical posts 58 by means of the magnets 18 embedded in the side parts of the frame elements.

List of reference numerals

2 Frame element

4 Frame

6, 6',6",6"' Side part of frame

8 First face of side part

10 Second face of side part

12 Wall

14 Outer surface of side part

16 First cover of frame

18 Magnet of side part

20 Cavity at an outer surface a side part

22 Inner surface of side part

24 Block of material

26 Reinforcing rim of block of material

28 Second cover of frame

30 Outer corner of side part

32 Wall suspension means

34 Magnet holder

35 Pin hole in magnet holder

36 Magnet suspension means

38 Pin of suspension mean

40,40' Magnetic pole of magnet

42 Spring 44 Pivoting means

46 Fastening means

48 Magnet cover

50 Glue

52 Stopper

54 Bore plug

56 Floor

58 Vertical post

60 Foot of vertical post

100 System

200 Room partitioning system

A Area confined by outer surface of frame element

D Distance form outer corner of side part to outermost magnet

N Number of magnets in a side part

S Length of outer surface of side part of frame element

V Void in area defined within inner surfaces of side parts

X Direction defined by magnetic polarity of a magnet