Stackable Panels for a Wall Panel Assembly

This application is a continuation of International Application No. PCT/CA2023/051429, filed Oct. 26, 2023, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/511,976 filed Jul. 5, 2023, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/492,078 filed Mar. 24, 2023, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/419,621 filed Oct. 26, 2022, the entirety of each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

The present disclosure relates to a panel of a wall panel assembly, and in particular, panels of the wall panel assembly that are stackable.

Costs for transportation of goods, such as wall panels, to the marketplace can be significant. It would be meaningful to reduce such costs so that such goods are not cost prohibitive in the marketplace.

In one aspect, there is provided a panel which is configured to define a first panel for coupling to a second panel, such that an assembled configuration is established, wherein the first panel is configured for co-operating with the second panel, a wall, and a fastener configuration for establishing a fastened panel assembly configuration, wherein, in the fastened panel assembly configuration, the assembled configuration is secured to the wall with the fastener configuration such that the assembled configuration covers at least a portion of a surface of the wall, and wherein the first panel is also configured for co-operating with the second panel for establishing a stacked configuration, wherein each one of the first and second panels, independently, comprises: a respective first coupling configuration counterpart; a respective second coupling configuration counterpart; and a respective mounting bracket-receiving space, recessed into a respective surface of the panel, for receiving emplacement of a mounting bracket with effect that the mounting bracket becomes vertically supported by the panel, wherein the respective mounting bracket-receiving space is defined within a respective receiving space-defining portion of the panel; wherein: the first coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the first panel, is configured for coupling with the second coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the second panel, with effect that a first coupled configuration is established, and the second coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the first panel, is configured for coupling with the first coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the second panel, with effect that a second coupled configuration is established, wherein the establishing of either one of the first coupled configuration or the second coupled configuration establishes the assembled configuration; and the first coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the first panel, is configured for co-operation with the receiving space-defining portion, that is respective to the second panel, such that a first nested configuration is established, and the receiving space-defining portion, that is respective to the first panel, is configured for co-operation with the first coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the second panel, such that a second nested configuration is established, wherein the stacked configuration includes the first nested configuration and the second nested configuration.

In another aspect, there is provided a panel which is configured to define a first panel for coupling to a second panel, such that an assembled configuration is established, wherein the first panel is configured for co-operating with the second panel, a wall, and a fastener configuration for establishing a fastened panel assembly configuration, wherein, in the fastened panel assembly configuration, the assembled configuration is secured to the wall with the fastener configuration such that the assembled configuration covers at least a portion of a surface of the wall, and wherein the first panel is also configured for co-operating with the second panel for establishing a stacked configuration, wherein: the first panel is configured for co-operation with the second panel such that, in the stacked configuration, the first and second panels are co-operatively disposed in a nested relationship, and the first and second panels are offset relative to one another by a minimum distance of less than 1 inch.

In another aspect, there is provided a panel which is configured to define a first panel for coupling to a second panel, such that an assembled configuration is established, wherein the first panel is configured for co-operating with the second panel, a wall, and a fastener configuration for establishing a fastened panel assembly configuration, wherein, in the fastened panel assembly configuration, the assembled configuration is secured to the wall with the fastener configuration such that the assembled configuration covers at least a portion of a surface of the wall, and wherein the first panel is also configured for co-operating with the second panel for establishing a stacked configuration; wherein: each one of the first and second panels, independently, comprises: a respective front surface; a respective rear surface disposed, relative to the respective front surface, on an opposite side of the panel; and a respective plurality of legs depending from the rear surface; the first panel is configured for co-operation with the second panel such that, in the stacked configuration: the first and second panels are co-operatively disposed in a nested relationship; one of the first and second panels is an upper panel and the other one of the first and second panels is disposed below the upper panel such that the other one of the first and second panels is a lower panel; and for each one of the legs, that are respective to the upper panel, independently, the leg is co-operable with the rear surface that is respective to the lower panel, such that, while the upper panel, to which the leg is respective, is being urged in a downwardly direction by application, to the upper panel, of gravitational force only, the leg is supported by the rear surface that is respective to the lower panel.

In another aspect, there is provided a panel which is configured to define a first panel for coupling to a second panel for establishing an assembled configuration, wherein the first panel is configured for co-operating with the second panel, a wall that defines a wall surface, and a fastener configuration for establishing a fastened panel assembly configuration, wherein, in the fastened panel assembly configuration, the assembled configuration is secured to the wall with the fastener configuration such that the assembled configuration covers at least a portion of a surface of the wall; wherein: the first panel includes a respective first coupling configuration counterpart; the second panel includes: a second coupling configuration counterpart; a front surface, wherein the front surface includes a visible planar surface portion that is oriented such that, while the fastened panel assembly configuration is established, an axis, that is normal to the respective planar surface portion, is disposed within five (5) degrees, relative to an axis that is normal to the wall surface; a mounting bracket-receiving space recessed into the visible planar surface portion of the second panel for receiving emplacement of a mounting bracket with effect that the mounting bracket becomes vertically supported by the second panel; a recess-defining surface, extending from spaced-apart upper and lower edges for defining the mounting bracket-receiving receiving space, and including: a retaining surface configuration including a forwardly-disposed retaining surface portion and a rearwardly-disposed retaining surface portion; wherein: the forwardly-disposed retaining surface portion and the mounting bracket-receiving space are co-operatively configured such that, while the mounting bracket is disposed within the mounting bracket-receiving space such that the mounting bracket is supported by the second panel, displacement of the mounting bracket, relative to the second panel, in a forwardly direction that is normal to the wall, is opposed by the forwardly-disposed retaining surface portion; and the rearwardly-disposed retaining surface portion and the mounting bracket-receiving space are co-operatively configured such that, while the mounting bracket is disposed within the mounting bracket-receiving space such that the mounting bracket is supported by the second panel, displacement of the mounting bracket, relative to the second panel, in a rearwardly direction that is normal to the wall, is opposed by the rearwardly-disposed retaining surface portion; and an upper surface portion, extending from the upper edge to the forwardly-disposed retaining surface portion, and oriented such that an axis, that is normal to the upper surface portion, is disposed, relative to the axis that is normal to the planar surface portion, at an angle that is within a range, wherein the range is from 45 degrees to 135 degrees; the first coupling configuration counterpart, of the first panel, is configured for co-operation with the second coupling configuration counterpart, of the second panel, such that, in the assembled configuration, the first coupling configuration counterpart, of the first panel, is coupled to the second coupling configuration counterpart, of the second panel; and the first panel is configured for co-operation with the second panel such that, while the assembled configuration is established, the first coupling configuration counterpart, of the first panel, extends into the mounting bracket-receiving space, of the second panel, with effect that the upper surface portion, of the second panel, is concealed by the first coupling configuration counterpart, of the first panel.

In another aspect, there is provided a first panel and a second panel, wherein the first and second panels are co-operatively configured for coupling such that an assembled configuration is established, and wherein the first panel and the second panel are configured for co-operating with a wall, that defines a wall surface, and a fastener configuration for establishing a fastened panel assembly configuration, wherein, in the fastened panel assembly configuration, the assembled configuration is secured to the wall with the fastener configuration such that the assembled configuration covers at least a portion of a surface of the wall; wherein: the first panel includes a respective first coupling configuration counterpart; the second panel includes: a second coupling configuration counterpart; a front surface, wherein the front surface includes a visible planar surface portion that is oriented such that, while the fastened panel assembly configuration is established, an axis, that is normal to the respective planar surface portion, is disposed within five (5) degrees, relative to an axis that is normal to the wall surface; a mounting bracket-receiving space recessed into the visible planar surface portion of the second panel for receiving emplacement of a mounting bracket with effect that the mounting bracket becomes vertically supported by the second panel; a recess-defining surface, extending from spaced-apart upper and lower edges which defining the mounting bracket-receiving space, and including: a retaining surface configuration including a forwardly-disposed retaining surface portion and a rearwardly-disposed retaining surface portion; wherein: the forwardly-disposed retaining surface portion and the mounting bracket-receiving space are co-operatively configured such that, while the mounting bracket is disposed within the mounting bracket-receiving space such that the mounting bracket is supported by the second panel, displacement of the mounting bracket, relative to the second panel, in a forwardly direction that is normal to the wall, is opposed by the forwardly-disposed retaining surface portion; and the rearwardly-disposed retaining surface portion and the mounting bracket-receiving space are co-operatively configured such that, while the mounting bracket is disposed within the mounting bracket-receiving space such that the mounting bracket is supported by the second panel, displacement of the mounting bracket, relative to the second panel, in a rearwardly direction that is normal to the wall, is opposed by the rearwardly-disposed retaining surface portion; and an upper surface portion, extending from the upper edge to the forwardly-disposed retaining surface portion, and oriented such that an axis, that is normal to the upper surface portion, is disposed, relative to the axis that is normal to the planar surface portion, at an angle that is within a range, wherein the range is from 45 degrees to 135 degrees; the first coupling configuration counterpart, of the first panel, and the second coupling configuration counterpart, of the second panel, are co-operatively configured such that, in the assembled configuration, the first coupling configuration counterpart, of the first panel, is coupled to the second coupling configuration counterpart, of the second panel; and the first panel and the second panel are co-operatively configured such that, while the assembled configuration is established, the first coupling configuration counterpart, of the first panel, extends into the mounting bracket-receiving space, of the second panel, with effect that the upper surface portion, of the second panel, is concealed by the first coupling configuration counterpart, of the first panel.

In another aspect, there is provided a kit for producing a wall panel assembly, wherein the kit comprises: a plurality of panels; wherein: each one of the plurality of panels, independently, includes: a respective front surface; and a respective rear surface disposed, relative to the respective front surface, on an opposite side of the panel; wherein: the respective front surface includes a respective panel image-defining surface portion which defines a respective panel image, such that the plurality of panels define a plurality of panel image-defining surface portions; and the respective panel image defines a respective visual representation of a portion of an image; the panels are configured for coupling to one another for establishing a wall panel assembly comprising the panels, disposed in adjacent relationship to one another, in series such that at least one pair of adjacent panels is established within the wall panel assembly, wherein the panels are configured for co-operating with a wall and a fastener configuration, for establishing a fastened wall panel assembly configuration, wherein, in the fastened panel assembly configuration, the wall panel assembly is secured to the wall with the fastener configuration such that the wall panel assembly covers at least a portion of a surface of the wall and, for each one of the panels of the wall panel assembly, independently, the respective front surface defines a respective visible surface which defines the respective panel image-defining surface portion, such that the wall panel assembly defines a wall panel assembly-defined visible surface, defined by the plurality of panel image-defining surface portions, such that the wall panel assembly-defined visible surface defines a visual representation of the entirety of the image; for each one of the plurality of panels, independently, the respective panel image-defining surface portion is oriented such that, while the fastened panel configuration is established, a respective axis, that is normal to the respective panel image-defining surface portion, is disposed within five (5) degrees, relative to an axis that is normal to the wall surface; each one of the panels, independently, further includes: a respective first coupling configuration counterpart; and a respective second coupling configuration counterpart; wherein: the respective first coupling configuration counterpart is configured to co-operate with the second coupling configuration counterpart of another one of the panels, and the respective second coupling configuration counterpart is configured to co-operate with the first coupling configuration counterpart of another one of the panels, such that, while the wall panel assembly is established, for each one of the at least one pair of adjacent panels, independently, the coupling between the adjacent panels is established based on the coupling of the first coupling configuration counterpart, of a one of the adjacent panels, and the second coupling configuration counterpart, of the other one of the adjacent panels; each one of the panels, independently, further includes: a respective mounting bracket-receiving space recessed into the respective panel image-defining surface portion for receiving emplacement of a mounting bracket with effect that the mounting bracket becomes vertically supported by the panel; a respective recess-defining surface, extending from respective spaced-apart upper and lower edges which define the respective mounting bracket-receiving space, and including: a respective retaining surface configuration including a respective forwardly-disposed retaining surface portion and a respective rearwardly-disposed retaining surface portion; wherein: the respective forwardly-disposed retaining surface portion and the respective mounting bracket-receiving space are co-operatively configured such that, while the mounting bracket is disposed within the respective mounting bracket-receiving space such that the mounting bracket is supported by the panel, displacement of the mounting bracket, relative to the panel, in a forwardly direction that is normal to the wall, is opposed by the respective forwardly-disposed retaining surface portion; and the respective rearwardly-disposed retaining surface portion and the respective mounting bracket-receiving space are co-operatively configured such that, while the mounting bracket is disposed within the respective mounting bracket-receiving space such that the mounting bracket is supported by the panel, displacement of the mounting bracket, relative to the panel, in a rearwardly direction that is normal to the wall, is opposed by the respective rearwardly-disposed retaining surface portion; and a respective upper surface portion, extending from the respective upper edge to the respective forwardly-disposed retaining surface portion, and oriented such that a respective axis, that is normal to the respective upper surface portion, is disposed, relative to the respective axis that is normal to the respective panel image-defining surface portion, at an angle that is within a range, wherein the range is from 45 degrees to 135 degrees; wherein: and for each one of the at least one pair of adjacent panels, independently, the first coupling configuration counterpart, of a one of the adjacent panels, extends into the mounting bracket-receiving space, of the other one of the adjacent panels, with effect that the upper surface portion, of the other one of the adjacent panels, is concealed by a concealing portion of the first coupling configuration counterpart, of the one of the adjacent panels.

In another aspect, there is provided a panel configured for co-operating with a wall and a fastener configuration for establishing a fastened panel configuration, wherein, in the fastened panel configuration, the fastened panel is secured to the wall with the fastener configuration and covers at least a portion of a surface of the wall, wherein the panel comprises: a front surface; a rear surface disposed, relative to the front surface, on an opposite side of the panel; and a plurality of legs depending from the rear surface; wherein: for each one of the plurality of legs, independently, a respective enlarged foot is disposed at a terminal end of the leg and is co-operable with the wall surface such that, in the fastened panel configuration, the enlarged foot is disposed in abutting engagement with the wall surface.

In another aspect, there is provided a panel which is configured to define a first panel for coupling to a second panel, such that an assembled configuration is established, wherein the first panel is configured for co-operating with the second panel, a wall, and a fastener configuration for establishing a fastened panel assembly configuration, wherein, in the fastened panel assembly configuration, the assembled configuration is secured to the wall with the fastener configuration such that the assembled configuration covers at least a portion of a surface of the wall, and wherein the first panel is also configured for co-operating with the second panel for establishing a stacked configuration, wherein each one of the first and second panels, independently, comprises: a respective first coupling configuration counterpart; a respective second coupling configuration counterpart; and a respective upper mounting bracket-receiving space, recessed into a respective upper surface of the panel, for receiving emplacement of a mounting bracket with effect that the mounting bracket becomes vertically supported by the panel, wherein the respective upper mounting bracket-receiving space is defined within a respective upper receiving space-defining portion of the panel; a respective lower mounting bracket-receiving space, recessed into a respective lower surface of the panel, for receiving emplacement of a mounting bracket with effect that the mounting bracket becomes vertically supported by the panel, wherein the respective lower mounting bracket-receiving space is defined within a respective lower receiving space-defining portion of the panel; a respective intermediate space, defined between the respective upper receiving space-defining portion and the respective lower receiving space-defining portion of the panel, wherein the respective intermediate space is defined by a respective intermediate space-defining portion of the panel; wherein: the first coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the first panel, is configured for coupling with the second coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the second panel, with effect that a first coupled configuration is established, and the second coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the first panel, is configured for coupling with the first coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the second panel, with effect that a second coupled configuration is established, wherein the establishing of either one of the first coupled configuration or the second coupled configuration establishes the assembled configuration; and (i) the first coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the first panel, is configured for co-operation with the upper receiving space-defining portion, that is respective to the second panel, such that a first nested configuration is established; (ii) the upper receiving space-defining portion, that is respective to the first panel, is configured for co-operation with the first coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the second panel, such that a second nested configuration is established; (iii) the intermediate space-defining portion, that is respective to the first panel, is configured for co-operation with the lower receiving space-defining portion, that is respective to the second panel, such that a third nested configuration is established; and (iv) the lower receiving space-defining portion, that is respective to the first panel, is configured for co-operation with the intermediate space-defining portion, that is respective to the second panel, such that a fourth nested configuration is established; wherein the stacked configuration includes the first nested configuration, the second nested configuration, the third nested configuration, and the fourth nested configuration.

In another aspect, there is provided a panel which is configured to define a first panel for coupling to a second panel, such that an assembled configuration is established, wherein the first panel is configured for co-operating with the second panel, a wall, and a fastener configuration for establishing a fastened panel assembly configuration, wherein, in the fastened panel assembly configuration, the assembled configuration is secured to the wall with the fastener configuration such that the assembled configuration covers at least a portion of a surface of the wall, and wherein the first panel is also configured for co-operating with the second panel for establishing a stacked configuration; wherein: each one of the first and second panels, independently, comprises: a respective front surface; a respective rear surface disposed, relative to the respective front surface, on an opposite side of the panel; and a respective mounting bracket-receiving space, recessed into a respective surface of the panel, for receiving emplacement of a mounting bracket with effect that the mounting bracket becomes vertically supported by the panel, wherein the respective mounting bracket-receiving space is defined within a respective receiving space-defining portion of the panel; the first panel is configured for co-operation with the second panel such that, in the stacked configuration: one of the first and second panels is an upper panel and the other one of the first and second panels is disposed below the upper panel such that the other one of the first and second panels is a lower panel; and the receiving space-defining portion, that is respective to the upper panel, is co-operable with the rear surface that is respective to the lower panel, such that, while the upper panel, to which the receiving space-defining portion is respective, is being urged in a downwardly direction by application, to the upper panel, of gravitational force only, the receiving space-defining portion is supported by the rear surface that is respective to the lower panel.

In another aspect, there is provided a panel which is configured to define a first panel for coupling to a second panel, such that an assembled configuration is established, wherein the first panel is configured for co-operating with the second panel, a wall, and a fastener configuration for establishing a fastened panel assembly configuration, wherein, in the fastened panel assembly configuration, the assembled configuration is secured to the wall with the fastener configuration such that the assembled configuration covers at least a portion of a surface of the wall, and wherein the first panel is also configured for co-operating with the second panel for establishing a stacked configuration, wherein each one of the first and second panels, independently, comprises: a respective front surface; a respective rear surface disposed, relative to the respective front surface, on an opposite side of the panel; and a respective first coupling configuration counterpart; a respective second coupling configuration counterpart; and a respective upper mounting bracket-receiving space, recessed into a respective upper surface of the panel, for receiving emplacement of a mounting bracket with effect that the mounting bracket becomes vertically supported by the panel, wherein the respective upper mounting bracket-receiving space is defined within a respective upper receiving space-defining portion of the panel; a respective lower mounting bracket-receiving space, recessed into a respective lower surface of the panel, for receiving emplacement of a mounting bracket with effect that the mounting bracket becomes vertically supported by the panel, wherein the respective lower mounting bracket-receiving space is defined within a respective lower receiving space-defining portion of the panel; wherein: the first coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the first panel, is configured for coupling with the second coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the second panel, with effect that a first coupled configuration is established, and the second coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the first panel, is configured for coupling with the first coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the second panel, with effect that a second coupled configuration is established, wherein the establishing of either one of the first coupled configuration or the second coupled configuration establishes the assembled configuration; the first panel is configured for co-operation with the second panel such that, in the stacked configuration: one of the first and second panels is an upper panel and the other one of the first and second panels is disposed below the upper panel such that the other one of the first and second panels is a lower panel; the first coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the upper panel, is configured for co-operation with the upper receiving space-defining portion, that is respective to the lower panel, such that the upper receiving space-defining portion, that is respective to the lower panel, is nested within a cavity defined by the first coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the upper panel; the upper receiving space-defining portion, that is respective to the upper panel, is configured for co-operation with the first coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the lower panel, such that the upper receiving space-defining portion, that is respective to the upper panel, is nested within a cavity defined by the first coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the lower panel; the lower receiving space-defining portion, that is respective to the upper panel, is co-operable with the rear surface that is respective to the lower panel, such that, while the upper panel, to which the lower receiving space-defining portion is respective, is being urged in a downwardly direction by application, to the upper panel, of gravitational force only, the lower receiving space-defining portion is supported by the rear surface that is respective to the lower panel; and the rear surface, that is respective to the upper panel, is co-operable with the lower receiving space-defining portion that is respective to the lower panel, such that, while the upper panel, to which the rear surface is respective, is being urged in a downwardly direction by application, to the upper panel, of gravitational force only, the rear surface is supported by the lower receiving space-defining portion that is respective to the lower panel.

In another aspect, there is provided a panel which is configured to define a first panel for coupling to a second panel, such that an assembled configuration is established, wherein the first panel is configured for co-operating with the second panel, a wall, and a fastener configuration for establishing a fastened panel assembly configuration, wherein, in the fastened panel assembly configuration, the assembled configuration is secured to the wall with the fastener configuration such that the assembled configuration covers at least a portion of a surface of the wall, and wherein the first panel is also configured for co-operating with the second panel for establishing a stacked configuration, wherein each one of the first and second panels, independently, comprises: a respective front surface that includes a respective planar surface portion; wherein: the first panel is configured for co-operation with the second panel such that, in the stacked configuration: one of the first and second panels is an upper panel and the other one of the first and second panels is disposed below the upper panel such that the other one of the first and second panels is a lower panel, and such that the lower panel is supporting only the upper panel; the planar surface portion of the upper panel defines an upper outwardly facing surface of the stacked configuration and the planar surface portion of the lower panel defines a lower outwardly facing surface of the stacked configuration; and the upper outwardly facing surface, defined by the planar surface portion of the upper panel, has a normal axis that is perpendicular to a linear axis, and the lower outwardly facing surface, defined by the planar surface portion of the lower panel, has a normal axis that is perpendicular to the linear axis.

In another aspect, there is provided a panel which is configured to define a first panel for coupling to a second panel, such that an assembled configuration is established, wherein the first panel is configured for co-operating with the second panel, a wall, and a fastener configuration for establishing a fastened panel assembly configuration, wherein, in the fastened panel assembly configuration, the assembled configuration is secured to the wall with the fastener configuration such that the assembled configuration covers at least a portion of a surface of the wall, and wherein the first panel is also configured for co-operating with the second panel for establishing a stacked configuration, wherein each one of the first and second panels, independently, comprises: a respective front surface a respective rear surface disposed, relative to the front surface, on an opposite side of the panel; and a respective leg, depending from the rear surface, wherein a respective enlarged foot is disposed at a terminal end of the leg; wherein: the first panel is configured for co-operation with the second panel such that, in the stacked configuration: one of the first and second panels is an upper panel and the other one of the first and second panels is disposed below the upper panel such that the other one of the first and second panels is a lower panel, and such that the lower panel is supporting only the upper panel; and the foot, that is respective to the upper panel, is co-operable with the rear surface that is respective to the lower panel, such that, the foot, that is respective to the upper panel, is being supported by the rear surface that is respective to the lower panel.

Other aspects will be apparent from the description and drawings provided herein.

, illustrate an embodiment of a panelfor covering at least a portion of a surface of a wall. The panelis configured for coupling to the wallwith a fastener configuration, such that the covering of at least a portion of a surfaceof the wallis effectuated.

In some embodiments, for example, the panelis configured to define a first panelfor coupling to a second panel, such that an assembled configurationis established (see). In some embodiments, for example, in the assembled configuration, the first panelis disposed adjacent to the second panel. The first panelis configured for co-operating with the second panel, a wall, and a fastener configurationfor establishing a fastened panel assembly configuration(see). In the fastened panel assembly configuration, the assembled configurationis secured to the wallwith the fastener configurationsuch that the assembled configurationcovers at least a portion of a surfaceof the wall. The first panelis also configured for co-operating with the second panelfor establishing a stacked configuration(see). In some embodiments, for example, the first panelis identical to the second panel. In some embodiments, for example, the first panelis different than the second panel.

In some embodiments, for example, the first and second panel,are included within a plurality of panels (such that the plurality of panels include the first and second panel,), and the plurality of panels are connectible in series for establishing a second assembled configuration. In some embodiments, for example, the series is a vertically-oriented series. In some embodiments, for example, in the second assembled configuration, with the exception of the terminal panels of the series of panels, each one the series of panels are disposed adjacent to preceding and succeeding panels in the series, while the first panelin the series is disposed adjacent to a succeeding panel, and the last panel in the series is disposed adjacent to a preceding panel.

The plurality of panels are configured for co-operating with a walland a fastener configurationfor establishing the fastened panel assembly configuration, wherein, in the fastened panel assembly configuration, the second assembled configuration is secured to the wallwith the fastener configurationsuch that the assembled configurationcovers at least a portion of a surfaceof the wall. The plurality of panels are configurable in a stacked configuration. In some embodiments, for example, the plurality of panels are identical. In some embodiments, for example, the plurality of panels are different, but sufficiently similar such that all of the panels are configured to co-operate with each other in the same manner as the co-operation of the first and second panel,, as described herein.

In some embodiments, for example, the material of any one of the panels described herein includes plastic, for example, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene, or recycled plastic. In some embodiments, for example, the material includes a composite material, such as, for example, wood fibre composite, recycled material, or cellular foam. In some embodiments, for example, the material includes metal, such as aluminum. In some embodiments, for example, the material includes fibreglass.

In some embodiments, for example, any one of the panels described herein is manufactured by extrusion. In such embodiments, for example, any one of the panels described herein is an extruded lineal. In some embodiments, for example, any one of the panels described herein is manufactured by molding. In some embodiments, for example, any one of the panels described herein is manufactured by pultrusion. In some embodiments, for example, any one of the panels described herein is manufactured by casting. In some embodiments, for example, any one of the panels described herein is manufactured by rolling. In some embodiments, for example, any one of the panels described herein is manufactured by forging.

In some embodiments, for example, the first panelincludes:

In some embodiments, for example, the second panelincludes:

In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the first and second panel,, independently, the respective front surfacedefines a visible surfacethat is visible while the fastened panel assembly configurationis established. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the first and second panel,, independently, the respective visible surfaceincludes a respective planar surface portionhaving a total surface area of at least three (3) inches squared, such as, for example, at least five (5) inches squared, such as, for example, at least ten (10) inches squared. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the first and second panel,, independently, while the panel() is disposed in the fastened panel assembly configuration, the respective planar surfaceportion is oriented in a parallel relationship with the wall surface.

As depicted in, in some embodiments, for example, for each one of the first and second panel,, independently, the panel() defines a longitudinal axis. As depicted, the longitudinal axisextends along the length of the panel(). In some embodiments, for example, the longitudinal axisis parallel to the planar surface portionof the panel() and normal to an axisthat is normal to the planar surface portion. In some embodiments, for example, wherein the panel() is manufactured by extrusion, the axis of extrusion is parallel to the longitudinal axisof the panel().

As depicted in, in some embodiments, for example, for each one of the first and second panel,, independently, the panel() defines a lateral axis. As depicted, the lateral axisextends along the width of the panel(). In some embodiments, for example, the lateral axisextends between, for example, through, the first coupling configuration counterpartand the second coupling configuration counterpartof the panel(). In some embodiments, for example, the lateral axisis parallel to the planar surfaceof the panel(), normal to an axisthat is normal to the planar surface portion, and normal to the longitudinal axis.

Referring to, in some embodiments, for example, for each one of the first and second panel,, independently, the respective fastener receiving portionis configured for receiving one or more mechanical fasteners, for example, screws, bolts, pins, and the like, to connect the panel to a wall. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the first and second panel,, independently, the respective fastener receiving portionincludes a respective fastener-engaging surface that is configured to engage with a head of a fastener, and further configured to oppose, for example, prevent, further displacement of the fastener through the respective panel() while the fastener-engaging surface is engaged to the head of the fastener. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the first and second panel,, independently, the connection of the respective panel() to the wallis effectuated by penetration of the respective fastener receiving portionwith the mechanical fastener such that the mechanical fastener extends through the respective fastener receiving portionand into the wall, and the head of the mechanical fastener is bearing against the respective fastener-engaging surface, urging the panel() into contact engagement with the wall.

In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the first and second panel,, independently, the respective fastener receiving portionincludes a respective fastener locatorfor locating placement of a fastener in a fastener effective position, and for guiding the penetration of the respective panel() by the mechanical fastener. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the first and second panel,, independently, the respective fastener locatorincludes a respective groove. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the first and second panel,, independently, the respective fastener locatoris configured to receive the tip of a fastener. In some embodiments, for each one of the first and second panel,, independently example, the respective fastener locatoris sufficiently deep and wide to receive the tip of the fastener. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the first and second panel,, independently, the respective fastener locatoris configured for co-operating with a tip of a fastener such that, while the tip of the fastener is received in the respective fastener locator, the position of the fastener receiving portionis identified for a user to fasten the respective panel,to a wall. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the first and second panel,, independently, the respective fastener locatoris configured for co-operating with a tip of the fastener such that, while the tip of the fastener is received in the respective fastener locator, the fastener is oriented such that the fastener is able to fasten the panel() to a wallin response to penetration of the respective fastener receiving portion. In some embodiments, for example, the groove is defined on the fastener-engaging surface.

“Fastener configuration” means one or more fasteners. For example, for the fastened panel assembly configurationthat includes a plurality of panels, in some embodiments, for example, each one of the panels, independently, is fastened to the wallwith a respective fastenersuch that, where there are ten (10) panels, then there are ten (10) fastenerswhich are fastening the ten (10) panels to the wall, such that the fastener configurationis defined by ten (10) fasteners.

The first coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the first panel, is configured for coupling with the second coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the second panel, with effect that a first coupled configuration is established. The first coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the first panel, and the second coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the second panel, are co-operatively configured such that, while the first coupled configuration is established: (a) relative displacement between the first paneland the second panel, along an axis that is: (i) parallel to the wall surfaceor to the planar surface portionof the panel(), and (ii) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis(e.g. the axis of extrusion) of the first panelor the second panel, such as along the lateral axis, is opposed (e.g. prevented); and (b) relative displacement between the first paneland the second panel, along an axis that is parallel to an axis that is normal to the wall surfaceor normal to the planar surface portionof the panel(), is opposed (e.g. prevented). In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the first coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the first panel, and the second coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the second panel, are co-operatively configured such that, while the first coupled configuration is established: (a) pulling apart of the first paneland the second panelis opposed (e.g. prevented), (b) pushing the first paneland the second paneltowards each other is opposed (e.g. prevented), and (c) lifting of one of the first paneland the second panel, away from the other one of the first paneland the second panel, is opposed (e.g. prevented). In some embodiments, for example, the first coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the first panel, and the second coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the second panel, are co-operatively configured such that, while the first coupled configuration is established, the second coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the second panel, is emplaced within a cavitydefined within the first coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the first panel, such that the second coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the second panel, is releasably locked to the first coupling configuration counterpartthat is respective to the first panel. In some embodiments, for example, for transitioning between the unlocked state and the locked state, the first coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the first panel, includes a deflectable arm portionwith a terminal end defined by a rearwardly extending projection. In the locked state, the rearwardly extending projectionis bearing against the second coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the second panel, owing to the material bias of the deflectable arm portion. Transitioning between the locked state and the unlocked state is effectuated by deflection of the deflectable arm portion. Transitioning from the unlocked state to the locked state is effectuated by a snap fit engagement.

Also, the second coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the first panel, is configured for coupling with the first coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the second panel, with effect that a second coupled configuration is established. The second coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the first panel, and the first coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the second panel, are co-operatively configured such that, while the second coupled configuration is established: (a) relative displacement between the first paneland the second panel, along an axis that is: (i) parallel to the wall surfaceor to the planar surface portionof the panel(), and (ii) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis(e.g. axis of extrusion) of the first panelor the second panel, such as along the lateral axis, is opposed (e.g. prevented); and (b) relative displacement between the first paneland the second panel, along an axis that is parallel to an axis that is normal to the wall surfaceor normal to the planar surface portionof the panel(), is opposed (e.g. prevented). In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the second coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the first panel, and the first coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the second panel, are co-operatively configured such that, while the second coupled configuration is established: (a) pulling apart of the first paneland the second panelis opposed (e.g. prevented), (b) pushing the first paneland the second paneltowards each other is opposed (e.g. prevented), and (c) lifting of one of the first paneland the second panel, away from the other one of the first paneland the second panel, is opposed (e.g. prevented). In some embodiments, for example, the first coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the second panel, and the second coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the first panel, are co-operatively configured such that, while the second coupled configuration is established, the second coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the first panel, is emplaced within a cavitydefined within the first coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the second panel, such that the second coupling configuration counterpartis releasably locked to the first coupling configuration counterpartthat is respective to the second panel. In some embodiments, for example, for transitioning between the unlocked state and the locked state, the first coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the second panel, includes a deflectable arm portionwith a terminal end defined by a rearwardly extending projection. In the locked state, the rearwardly extending projectionis bearing against the second coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the first panel, owing to the material bias of the deflectable arm portion. Transitioning between the locked state and the unlocked state is effectuated by deflection of the deflectable arm portion. Transitioning from the unlocked state to the locked state is effectuated by a snap fit engagement.

In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the panels,, independently, the first coupling configuration counterpartincludes: an arm portionthat is biased in a rearwardly direction, a rearwardly extending projection, extending rearwardly from the arm portion, a leg, extending rearwardly from the arm portion, and a transversely extending projection, extending from the leg, transversely relative to the rearwardly extending projection. Correspondingly, for each one of the panels,, independently, the second coupling configuration counterpartincludes an uppermost edge portion, defined at an uppermost edge of the panel, and a forwardly extending projection. In some embodiments, for example, the legis defined by a legthat depends from the rear surface. In some embodiments, for example, the legis defined by the legof the panel() that is most proximate to the rearwardly extending projection.

The first coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the first panel, is configured for coupling with the second coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the second panel, with effect that the first coupled configuration is established, wherein, in the first coupled configuration, an upper surface of the rearwardly extending projection, that is respective to the first panelis bearing against a lower surface portion of the forwardly extending projection, that is respective to the second panel, and the upper edge portion, that is respective to the second panel, is disposed between the transversely extending projection, that is respective to the first panel, and the arm portion, that is respective to the first panel. Defeating of the first coupled configuration is effectuated by deflection of the arm portionof the first panel.

Also, the first coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the second panel, is configured for coupling with the second coupling configuration counterpart, that is respective to the first panel, with effect that the second coupled configuration is established, wherein, in the second coupled configuration, an upper surface of the rearwardly extending projection, that is respective to the second panelis bearing against a lower surface portion of the forwardly extending projection, that is respective to the first panel, and the upper edge portion, that is respective to the first panel, is disposed between the transversely extending projection, that is respective to the second panel, and the arm portion, that is respective to the second panel. Defeating of the second coupled configuration is effectuated by deflection of the arm portionof the second panel.

The establishing of either one of the first coupled configuration or the second coupled configuration establishes the assembled configuration.

In some embodiments, for example, the first panelis configured for co-operating with the second panelsuch that, while the fastened panel assembly configurationis established, at least a portion of the visible surfaceof the front surfaceof the first panelis co-planar with the front surfaceof the second panel. In some embodiments, for example, the first panelis configured for co-operation with the second panelsuch that, in the fastened panel assembly configuration, for each one of the first and second panels, independently, the respective planar surface portionis oriented in a parallel relationship with the wall surface. In some embodiments, for example, such relationship between the visible surfacesof the panels, and between the planar surface portionsof the panels and the wall, are intended to provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance.

In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the first and second panel,, independently, the cavitydefined within the respective first coupling configuration counterpartis defined between the legand the rearwardly extending projectionof the respective first coupling configuration counterpart.

For each one of the first and second panel,, independently, the respective mounting bracket-receiving spaceis recessed into the respective front surface(e.g. a visible planar surface portionof the front surface) for receiving emplacement of a mounting bracket with effect that the mounting bracket becomes vertically supported by the respective panel. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the first and second panel,, independently, the respective mounting bracket-receiving spaceis defined by a respective receiving space-defining portionof the respective front surfaceof the respective panel. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the first and second panel,, independently, the respective receiving space-defining portiondefines a respective guide surfaceand a respective retaining surface configuration, and, in some of these embodiments, for example, the respective mounting bracket-receiving space, the respective guide surface, and the respective retaining surface configurationare co-operatively configured such that, while the respective panel is fastened to the wall(e.g. the fastened panel assembly configurationis established) and the mounting bracket is being inserted into the respective receiving space, the respective guide surfaceengages the mounting bracket with effect that the mounting bracket is rotated, relative to the respective panel, such that movement of the mounting bracket, within the respective receiving space, is directed, with effect that a retained configuration is established, wherein, in the retained configuration, the mounting bracket is vertically supported by the respective panel, and the respective retaining surface configurationis opposing displacement of the mounting bracket, relative to the respective panel, in both directions that are normal to the wall surface. In some embodiments, for example, the respective retaining surface configurationincluding a respective forwardly-disposed retaining surface portionA and a respective rearwardly-disposed retaining surface portionB. The respective forwardly-disposed retaining surface portionA and the respective mounting bracket-receiving spaceare co-operatively configured such that, while the mounting bracket is disposed within the respective mounting bracket-receiving spacesuch that the mounting bracket is supported by the second panel, displacement of the mounting bracket, relative to the second panel, in a forwardly direction that is normal to the wall, is opposed by the respective forwardly-disposed retaining surface portionA. The respective rearwardly-disposed retaining surface portionB and the respective mounting bracket-receiving spaceare co-operatively configured such that, while the mounting bracket is disposed within the respective mounting bracket-receiving spacesuch that the mounting bracket is supported by the second panel, displacement of the mounting bracket, relative to the second panel, in a rearwardly direction that is normal to the wall, is opposed by the respective rearwardly-disposed retaining surface portionB.

In some embodiments, for example, a mounting bracket-receiving spaceof a panel() is co-operatively configured to co-operate with a mounting bracket-receiving spaceof another panel() for securing the mounting bracket to the panels. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, while the assembled configurationis established, the upper bracket connector is configured to be disposed in the mounting bracket-receiving space of the panel(), and the lower bracket connector is configured to be disposed in the mounting bracket-receiving space of the other panel(). While the upper bracket connector is disposed in the mounting bracket-receiving space of the panel, and the lower bracket connector is disposed in the mounting bracket-receiving space of the other panel, the mounting bracket is vertically supported by the panel, the respective retaining surface configurationsare opposing displacement of the mounting bracket, relative to the panels, in both directions that are normal to the wall surface, and rotation of the mounting bracket, relative to the panels, is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, the first and second panel,are co-operatively configured such that, while the assembled configurationis established, and the assembled configurationis the first coupled configuration, the first coupling configuration counterpart(e.g. the rearwardly-extending projection), that is respective to the first panel, extends into the mounting bracket-receiving spaceof the second panel.

In some embodiments, the first and second panel,are co-operatively configured such that, while the assembled configurationis established, and the assembled configurationis the second coupled configuration, the first coupling configuration counterpart(e.g. the rearwardly-extending projection), that is respective to the second panel, extends into the mounting bracket-receiving spaceof the first panel.

Referring to, in some of these embodiments, for example, for each one of the first and second panel,, independently, the respective front surfaceincludes a respective planar surface portionthat is oriented such that, while the fastened panel assembly configurationis established, an axis that is normal to the respective planar surface portion, is disposed within five (5) degrees, relative to an axisthat is normal to the wall surface. In some embodiments, for example, the respective planar surface portionis oriented such that, while the fastened panel assembly configurationis established, the planar surface portionis oriented in a co-planar relationship with the wall surface, such that the axisis also normal to the planar surface. Also, for each one of the first and second panel,, independently, a respective receiving space-defining surfaceextends from respective spaced-apart upper and lower edges,for defining the respective mounting bracket-receiving space. The respective receiving space-defining surfaceincludes a respective upper surface portion, extending from the respective upper edgeto the respective retaining surface configuration, and oriented such that a respective axis, that is normal to the respective upper surface portion, is disposed, relative to the respective axisthat is normal to the respective planar surface portion, at an angle that is within a range, wherein the range is from 45 degrees to 135 degrees (such as, for example, from 60 degrees to 120 degrees, such as, for example, from 75 degrees to 105 degrees, such as, for example, 90 degrees). The first and second panel,are co-operatively configured such that, while the assembled configurationis established, and the assembled configurationis the first coupled configuration, the first coupling configuration counterpart(e.g. the rearwardly-extending projection), that is respective to the first panel, extends into the mounting bracket-receiving spaceof the second panelwith effect that the upper surface portion, of the second panel, is concealed by the first coupling configuration counterpartof the first panel. The first and second panel,are co-operatively configured such that, while the assembled configurationis established, and the assembled configurationis the second coupled configuration, the first coupling configuration counterpart(e.g. the rearwardly-extending projection), that is respective to the second panel, extends into the mounting bracket-receiving spaceof the first panelwith effect that the upper surface portion, of the first panel, is concealed by the first coupling configuration counterpart(e.g. the rearwardly-extending projection), that is respective to the second panel.

In some embodiments, for example, while the fastened panel assembly configurationis established, for each one of the first and second panel,, the respective plurality of legsare supported by the wall, and, in some of these embodiments, are disposed in abutting engagement with the wall, such as with the wall surface. In some of these embodiments, for example, for each one of the first and second panel,, and for at least one of the respective plurality of legs, such as, for example, for each one of the respective plurality of legs, independently, a respective enlarged footis disposed at a terminal end of the leg, such that the abutting engagement is that of the respective enlarged footwith the wall, such as with the wall surface. In some embodiments, for example, the respective enlarged footdefines an engagement surface portion, such that an engagement surface portion, that is respective to the leg, is defined. In some embodiments, for example, the abutting engagement between the legand the wall surfaceis established between the engagement surface portion and the wall, for example, with the wall surface.

In some of these embodiments, for example, for each one of the first and second panel,, each one of the respective plurality of legs(of the panel()), independently, defines a respective longitudinal axis and a respective maximum cross-sectional area whose normal axis, at a respective cross-section at which the respective maximum cross-sectional area is defined, is parallel to the respective longitudinal axis, and the total surface area of the respective engagement surface portion exceeds the maximum cross-sectional area of the respective supporting leg. In some of these embodiments, for example, the exceeding is by at least 25%, such as, for example, by at least 50%, such as, for example, at least 75%, such as, for example, by at least 100%. That is, for each one of the legs, independently, the total surface area of the respective engagement surface portion exceeds the maximum cross-sectional area of the respective supporting legby at least%, such as, for example, by at least 50%, such as, for example, at least 75%, such as, for example, by at least 100%.

In some embodiments, for example, the first panelis also configured for co-operating with the second panelfor establishing a stacked configuration. In some embodiments, for example, the first panelis also configured for co-operating with the second panel, such that, in the stacked configuration, the first and second panel,are co-operatively disposed in a nested configuration or nested relationship.

In some embodiments, for example, the first panelis configured for co-operation with the second panelsuch that, in the stacked configuration, the first and second panel,are offsetrelative to one another by a minimum distance of less than 1 inch, such as, for example, less than 2.0 centimeters, such as, for example, less than 1.5 centimeters, such as, for example, less than 1.0 centimeters.

In some embodiments, for example, the offsetis along an axis that is: (i) parallel to the wall surfaceor to the planar surface portionof the panel(), and (ii) perpendicular to the longitudinal axisof the first panel. In some embodiments, for example, the offsetis along the axis that is: (i) parallel to the wall surfaceor to the planar surface portionof the panel(), and perpendicular to the longitudinal axisof the second panel. In some embodiments, for example, the offsetis along an axis that is parallel to the lateral axisof the first panel. In some embodiments, for example, the offsetis along an axis that is parallel to the lateral axisof the second panel.

In some embodiments, for example, the first panelis configured for co-operation with the second panelsuch that, in the stacked configuration, one of the first and second panel,is an upper panel and the other one of the first and second panel,is disposed below the upper panel such that the other one of the first and second panel,is a lower panel. In some embodiments, for example, in the stacked configuration, the lower panel is supporting only the upper panel.

In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the legs, that are respective to the upper panel, independently, the legis co-operable with the rear surfacethat is respective to the lower panel, such that, while the upper panel, to which the legis respective, is being urged in a downwardly direction by application, to the upper panel, of gravitational force only, the legis supported by the rear surfacethat is respective to the lower panel. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the legs, that are respective to the upper panel, independently, while the legis supported by the rear surfacethat is respective to the lower panel, bending of the stacked configuration, in response to a force applied to the upper panel, is opposed (e.g. prevented). In some embodiments, for example, the force that is applied to the upper panel includes the weight of one or more panels disposed on top of the upper panel. In some embodiments, for example, the force that is applied to the upper panel includes an external force, for example, an external force that is applied by a user or by a machine.