Picture frame key slot alignment apparatus

Abstract

A device may include a body configured to be inserted into a key-slot of a picture frame or key-slot bracket. A device may include a pointer attached to the body and configured to mark a position on a wall for locating a wall mounting screw. A device may include an eccentric post operatively connected to the body, the eccentric post having a shape that allows it to rotate within the key-slot and lock into position. A device may include a knob attached to the eccentric post, wherein the knob has knurls to facilitate gripping and rotating the post, such that the pointer is properly aligned for marking. A device may include the eccentric post has a height greater than its width, enabling it to slide into the key-slot in a first position and lock by rotation in a second position.

1 . A picture frame key slot alignment apparatus, comprising:
 a body configured to be inserted into a key-slot of a picture frame or key-slot bracket;   a pointer attached to the body and configured to mark a position on a wall for locating a wall mounting screw;   an eccentric post operatively connected to the body, the eccentric post having a shape that allows it to rotate within the key-slot and lock into position; and   a knob attached to the eccentric post, wherein the knob has knurls to facilitate gripping and rotating the post, such that the pointer is properly aligned for marking.   
     
     
         2 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the eccentric post has a height greater than its width, enabling it to slide into the key-slot in a first position and lock by rotation in a second position. 
     
     
         3 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , further comprising rubber O-rings positioned on the eccentric post, wherein the O-rings provide frictional resistance to secure the apparatus in place within the key-slot. 
     
     
         4 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the pointer is a steel sharp point that, when pressed against a surface, leaves a mark indicating the proper position of a wall mounting screw. 
     
     
         5 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the knob includes marker arrows to visually indicate the orientation of the eccentric post during operation, facilitating alignment and locking. 
     
     
         6 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the body of the apparatus is configured to be inserted into the large end of the key-slot and then slid along the slot to the smaller end, where the apparatus locks into position through rotation. 
     
     
         7 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , further comprising a rotational mechanism that allows the user to rotate the apparatus 90 degrees to secure the eccentric post in the key-slot, creating tension between the post and the slot to hold the apparatus in place. 
     
     
         8 . A method of marking the position for a wall mounting screw for a picture frame, comprising the steps of:
 inserting a key-slot alignment apparatus into a key-slot or key-slot bracket on the back of a picture frame;   leveling and positioning the picture frame on a wall;   pushing on the front of the picture frame such that a pointer on the apparatus marks the desired location of the wall mounting screw.   
     
     
         9 . The method of  claim 8 , wherein the key-slot alignment apparatus includes an eccentric post that is rotated within the key-slot to lock the apparatus into position before marking the wall. 
     
     
         10 . The method of  claim 8 , wherein the key-slot alignment apparatus includes a knob with knurls for gripping, and the pointer is a steel point that is pressed against the wall to leave a mark for the wall mounting screw.