TRIM FOR WALL PANEL ASSEMBLY

BORDURE POUR ASSEMBLAGE DE PANNEAU MURAL

English Abstract

Disclosed herein is an end trim that is connectible to a panel. The trim
comprises a trim-defined
recess. While the connected trim and panel is secured to a mounting wall,
insertion of a first
connector of a mounting assembly into a panel-defined recess is with effect
that a retained
configuration is established, wherein the mounting assembly is vertically
supported by the
panel, and displacement of the mounting assembly, relative to the connected
trim and panel,
in a direction away from the mounting wall, is opposed. The trim-defined
recess is configured
for co-operation with the mounting assembly such that, while the retained
configuration is
established, insertion of the second connector of the mounting assembly into
the trim-defined
recess is with effect that a rotation-resistant configuration is established,
wherein rotation of
the mounting assembly, relative to the connected trim and panel, in a
direction away from the
mounting wall, is opposed.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:
1. An end trim that is connectible to a panel, the panel comprising a panel-
defined recess,
the end trim comprising:
a trim-defined recess; and
wherein the end trim is configured for co-operation with the panel such that:
the end trim is connectible to the panel, such that a connected trim and panel

is established;
while the connected trim and panel is established:
the panel-defined recess is disposed for connection to a first
connector of a mounting assembly; and
the trim-defined recess is disposed for connection to a second
connector of the mounting assembly;
while the connected trim and panel is secured to a mounting wall:
insertion of the first connector into the panel-defined recess is with
effect that a retained configuration is established, wherein, in the
retained configuration:
the mounting assembly is vertically supported by the panel,
and
displacement of the mounting assembly, relative to the
connected trim and panel, in a direction away from the
mounting wall, is opposed;
the trim-defined recess is configured for co-operation with the
mounting assembly such that, while the retained configuration is
established, insertion of the second connector into the trim-defined
recess is with effect that a rotation-resistant configuration is
established, wherein, in the rotation-resistant configuration:
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rotation of the mounting assembly, relative to the connected
trim and panel, in a direction away from the mounting wall, is
opposed.
2. The end trim of claim 1, further comprising:
a trim-defined retaining surface;
wherein:
in the rotation-resistant configuration, the rotation of the mounting
assembly,
relative to the connected trim and panel, in a direction away from the
mounting wall, is opposed by the trim-defined retaining surface.
3. The end trim of claim 2, wherein:
the trim-defined recess is disposed rearwardly of the trim-defined retaining
surface.
4. The end trim of claim 2 or claim 3, wherein:
the end trim further comprises a retaining surface-defining configuration,
defining the
trim-defined retaining surface; and
the second connector of the mounting assembly defines a recess,
wherein:
while the rotation-resistant configuration is established, the retaining
surface-
defining configuration is disposed within the recess of the second connector
of the mounting assembly.
5. The end trim of claim 4, wherein:
the panel further comprises a panel-defined connection system counterpart; and
the end trim further comprise a trim-defined connection system counterpart;
wherein the connection of the end trim and panel is effected by snap-fit
engagement
between the panel-defined connection system counterpart and the trim-defined
connection system counterpart.
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6. The end trim of claim 5, wherein, while the rotation-resistant
configuration is established,
the panel-defined connection system counterpart is disposed within the recess
of the second
connector of the mounting assembly.
7. The end trim of any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the trim-defined recess
is defined by a
recess-defining surface, and the recess defining surface includes the trim-
defined retaining
surface.
8. The end trim of any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising:
a front facing surface, defining a fastener-receiving portion which is co-
operable with
a fastener for effectuating connection of the end trim to the mounting wall;
a base, defining a rear-facing surface, wherein the base is disposed, relative
to the
front facing surface, on an opposite side of the end trim;
wherein:
the front facing surface and the base are co-operatively configured such that,

while the rear facing surface is disposed in an abutting engagement with the
mounting wall:
in response to a retaining force that is applied to a front facing surface
portion, disposed downwardly, relative to the fastener receiving
portion, there is an absence of rotation of the trim, about the base,
relative to the mounting wall.
9. The end trim of claim 8, wherein the front facing surface and the base are
co-operatively
configured such that, while the rear facing surface is disposed in an abutting
engagement
with the mounting wall:
in response to the retaining force that is applied to the front facing surface
portion,
disposed downwardly, relative to the fastener receiving portion, there is an
absence
of a moment arm defined between the retaining force and the base, such that
there is
the absence of rotation of the end trim, about the base, relative to the
mounting wall.
10. The end trim of claim 8 or claim 9, wherein the front facing surface and
the base are co-
operatively configured such that, while the rear facing surface is disposed in
an abutting
engagement with the mounting wall:
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in response to the retaining force that is applied to the front facing surface
portion,
disposed downwardly, relative to the fastener receiving portion, there is an
absence
of generation of a moment of rotation about the base, such that there is the
absence
of rotation of the end trim, about the base, relative to the mounting wall.
11. The end trim of any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the front facing
surface and the base
are co-operatively configured such that, while the entirety of the rear facing
surface is
disposed in the abutting engagement with the mounting wall:
in response to the retaining force that is applied to the front facing surface
portion,
disposed downwardly, relative to the fastener receiving portion, there is the
absence
of rotation of the trim, about the base, relative to the mounting wall.
12. The end trim of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the front facing
surface and the base
are co-operatively configured such that, while the rear facing surface is
disposed in an
abutting engagement with the mounting wall:
in response to a retaining force that is applied to the front facing surface
portion,
disposed upwardly, relative to the fastener receiving portion, there is an
absence of
rotation of the trim, about the base, relative to the mounting wall.
13. The end trim of claim 12, wherein the front facing surface and the base
are co-
operatively configured such that, while the rear facing surface is disposed in
an abutting
engagement with the mounting wall:
in response to the retaining force that is applied to the front facing surface
portion,
disposed upwardly, relative to the fastener receiving portion, there is an
absence of a
moment arm defined between the retaining force and the base, such that there
is the
absence of rotation of the end trim, about the base, relative to the mounting
wall.
14. The end trim of claim 12 or claim 13, wherein the front facing surface and
the base are
co-operatively configured such that, while the rear facing surface is disposed
in an abutting
engagement with the mounting wall:
in response to the retaining force that is applied to the front facing surface
portion,
disposed upwardly, relative to the fastener receiving portion, there is an
absence of
generation of a moment of rotation about the base, such that there is the
absence of
rotation of the end trim, about the base, relative to the mounting wall.
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15. The end trim of any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the front facing
surface and the base
are co-operatively configured such that, while the entirety of the rear facing
surface is
disposed in the abutting engagement with the mounting wall:
in response to the retaining force that is applied to the front facing surface
portion,
disposed upwardly, relative to the fastener receiving portion, there is the
absence of
rotation of the trim, about the base, relative to the mounting wall.
16. The end trim of any one of claims 8 to 15, wherein the absence of the
rotation of the trim,
about the base, relative to the mounting wall, is such that there is an
absence of defeating of
the abutting engagement of the rear facing surface with the mounting wall.
17. The end trim of any one of claims 8 to 16, wherein at least a portion of
the base is
disposed reanwardly of the trim-defined retaining surface.
18. The end trim of any one of claims 8 to 17, wherein the retaining force has
a direction that
is perpendicular to an outer surface of the mounting wall.
19. The end trim of any one of claims 1 to 18, further comprising:
an outer surface that includes a continuous surface that extends along the
length of
the end trim; and
while the connected trim and panel is established, the outer surface is
visible.
20. The end trim of claim 19, wherein, while the connected trim and panel is
secured to the
mounting wall, the outer surface of the end trim and an outer surface of the
mounting wall
are disposed in a perpendicular relationship.
21. The end trim of any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the first connector of
the mounting
assembly is an upper connector, and the second connector of the mounting
assembly is a
lower connector.
22. The end trim of any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the end trim is a
bottom end trim,
such that, while the connected trim and panel is secured to the mounting wall,
the bottom
end trim is disposed at a bottom end of the connected trim and panel.
23. The end trim of any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the insertion of the
first connector into
the panel-defined recess is with effect that the first connector is rotated,
relative to the
connected trim and panel, such that the retained configuration is established.
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24. The end trim of any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein:
the panel further comprises a panel-defined retaining surface;
wherein, while the retained configuration is established, the displacement of
the
mounting assembly, relative to the connected trim and panel, in a direction
away
from the mounting wall, is opposed by the panel-defined retaining surface.
25. The end trim of any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein the material of the end
trim includes
plastic.
26. The end trim of any one of claims 1 to 25, wherein the end trim is
manufactured by
extrusion.
27. A kit for a wall panel assembly, comprising:
a panel, comprising:
a panel-defined recess; and
an end trim, comprising:
a trim-defined recess;
wherein the end trim is configured for co-operation with the panel such that:
the end trim is connectible to the panel, such that a connected trim and panel

is established;
while the connected trim and panel is established:
the panel-defined recess is disposed for connection to a first
connector of a mounting assembly; and
the trim-defined recess is disposed for connection to a second
connector of the mounting assembly;
while the connected trim and panel is secured to a mounting wall:
insertion of the first connector into the panel-defined recess is with
effect that a retained configuration is established, wherein, in the
retained configuration:
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the mounting assembly is vertically supported by the panel,
and
displacement of the mounting assembly, relative to the
connected trim and panel, in a direction away from the
mounting wall, is opposed;
the trim-defined recess is configured for co-operation with the
mounting assembly such that, while the retained configuration is
established, insertion of the second connector into the trim-defined
recess is with effect that a rotation-resistant configuration is
established, wherein, in the rotation-resistant configuration:
rotation of the mounting assembly, relative to the connected
trim and panel, in a direction away from the mounting wall, is
opposed.
28. The kit of claim 27, wherein:
the end trim further comprises a trim-defined retaining surface;
wherein:
in the rotation-resistant configuration, the rotation of the mounting
assembly,
relative to the connected trim and panel, in a direction away from the
mounting wall, is opposed by the trim-defined retaining surface.
29. The kit of claim 28, wherein:
the trim-defined recess is disposed rearwardly of the trim-defined retaining
surface.
30. The kit of claim 28 or claim 29, wherein:
the end trim further comprises a retaining surface-defining configuration,
defining the
trim-defined retaining surface; and
the second connector of the mounting assembly defines a recess;
wherein:
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while the rotation-resistant configuration is established, the retaining
surface-
defining configuration is disposed within the recess of the second connector
of the mounting assembly.
31. The kit of claim 30, wherein:
the panel further comprises a panel-defined connection system counterpart; and
the end trim further comprise a trim-defined connection system counterpart;
wherein the connection of the end trim and panel is effected by snap-fit
engagement
between the panel-defined connection system counterpart and the trim-defined
connection system counterpart.
32. The kit of claim 31, wherein, while the rotation-resistant configuration
is established, the
panel-defined connection system counterpart is disposed within the recess of
the second
connector of the mounting assembly.
33. The kit of any one of claims 28 to 32, wherein the trim-defined recess is
defined by a
recess-defining surface, and the recess defining surface includes the trim-
defined retaining
surface.
34. The kit of any one of claims 27 to 33, wherein:
the end trim further comprises:
a front facing surface, defining a fastener-receiving portion which is co-
operable with a fastener for effectuating connection of the end trim to the
mounting wall;
a base, defining a rear-facing surface, wherein the base is disposed, relative
to the front facing surface, on an opposite side of the end trim;
wherein:
the front facing surface and the base are co-operatively configured such that,

while the rear facing surface is disposed in an abutting engagement with the
mounting wall:
in response to a retaining force that is applied to a front facing surface
portion, disposed downwardly, relative to the fastener receiving
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portion, there is an absence of rotation of the trim, about the base,
relative to the mounting wall.
35. The kit of claim 34, wherein, the front facing surface and the base are co-
operatively
configured such that, while the rear facing surface is disposed in an abutting
engagement
with the mounting wall:
in response to the retaining force that is applied to the front facing surface
portion,
disposed downwardly, relative to the fastener receiving portion, there is an
absence
of a moment arm defined between the retaining force and the base, such that
there is
the absence of rotation of the end trim, about the base, relative to the
mounting wall.
36. The kit of claim 34 or claim 35, wherein, the front facing surface and the
base are co-
operatively configured such that, while the rear facing surface is disposed in
an abutting
engagement with the mounting wall:
in response to the retaining force that is applied to the front facing surface
portion,
disposed downwardly, relative to the fastener receiving portion, there is an
absence
of generation of a moment of rotation about the base, such that there is the
absence
of rotation of the end trim, about the base, relative to the mounting wall.
37. The kit of any one of claims 34 to 36, wherein:
the front facing surface and the base are co-operatively configured such that,
while
the entirety of the rear facing surface is disposed in the abutting engagement
with the
mounting wall:
in response to the retaining force that is applied to the front facing surface

portion, disposed downwardly, relative to the fastener receiving portion,
there
is the absence of rotation of the trim, about the base, relative to the
mounting
wall.
38. The kit of any one of claims 27 to 37, wherein the front facing surface
and the base are
co-operatively configured such that, while the rear facing surface is disposed
in an abutting
engagement with the mounting wall:
in response to a retaining force that is applied to the front facing surface
portion,
disposed upwardly, relative to the fastener receiving portion, there is an
absence of
rotation of the trim, about the base, relative to the mounting wall.
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39. The kit of claim 38, wherein the front facing surface and the base are co-
operatively
configured such that, while the rear facing surface is disposed in an abutting
engagement
with the mounting wall:
in response to the retaining force that is applied to the front facing surface
portion,
disposed upwardly, relative to the fastener receiving portion, there is an
absence of a
moment arm defined between the retaining force and the base, such that there
is the
absence of rotation of the end trim, about the base, relative to the mounting
wall.
40. The kit of claim 38 or claim 39, wherein the front facing surface and the
base are co-
operatively configured such that, while the rear facing surface is disposed in
an abutting
engagement with the mounting wall:
in response to the retaining force that is applied to the front facing surface
portion,
disposed upwardly, relative to the fastener receiving portion, there is an
absence of
generation of a moment of rotation about the base, such that there is the
absence of
rotation of the end trim, about the base, relative to the mounting wall.
41. The kit of any one of claims 38 to 40, wherein the front facing surface
and the base are
co-operatively configured such that, while the entirety of the rear facing
surface is disposed
in the abutting engagement with the mounting wall:
in response to the retaining force that is applied to the front facing surface
portion,
disposed upwardly, relative to the fastener receiving portion, there is the
absence of
rotation of the trim, about the base, relative to the mounting wall.
42. The kit of any one of claims 34 to 41, wherein the absence of the rotation
of the trim,
about the base, relative to the mounting wall, is such that there is an
absence of defeating of
the abutting engagement of the rear facing surface with the mounting wall.
43. The kit of any one of claims 34 to 42, wherein at least a portion of the
base is disposed
rearwardly of the trim-defined retaining surface.
44. The kit of any one of claims 34 to 43, wherein the retaining force has a
direction that is
perpendicular to an outer surface of the mounting wall.
45. The kit of any one of claims 27 to 44, further comprising:
an outer surface that includes a continuous surface that extends along the
length of
the end trim; and
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while the connected trim and panel is established, the outer surface is
visible.
46. The kit of claim 45, wherein, while the connected trim and panel is
secured to the
mounting wall, the outer surface of the end trim and an outer surface of the
mounting wall
are disposed in a perpendicular relationship.
47. The kit of any one of claims 27 to 46, wherein the first connector of the
mounting
assembly is an upper connector, and the second connector of the mounting
assembly is a
lower connector.
48. The kit of any one of claims 27 to 47, wherein the end trim is a bottom
end trim, such
that, while the connected trim and panel is secured to the mounting wall, the
bottom end trim
is disposed at a bottom end of the connected trim and panel.
49. The kit of any one of claims 27 to 48, wherein the insertion of the first
connector into the
panel-defined recess is with effect that the first connector is rotated,
relative to the
connected trim and panel, such that the retained configuration is established.
50. The kit of any one of claims 27 to 49, wherein:
the panel further comprises a panel-defined retaining surface;
wherein, while the retained configuration is established, the displacement of
the
mounting assembly, relative to the connected trim and panel, in a direction
away
from the mounting wall, is opposed by the panel-defined retaining surface
51. The kit of any one of claims 27 to 50, wherein the material of the end
trim includes
plastic.
52. The kit of any one of claims 27 to 51, wherein the end trim is
manufactured by extrusion.
53. The kit of any one of claims 27 to 52, wherein the material of the panel
includes plastic.
54. The kit of any one of claims 27 to 53, wherein the panel is manufactured
by extrusion.
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Description

Trim for Wall Panel Assembly
FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates to a trim, and in particular, a trim
that is connectible to
a panel to define a connected trim and panel, wherein a mounting assembly is
securable to
the connected trim and panel.
BACKGROUND
[0002] To avoid clutter, and to organize objects, such as tools, toys,
organizing boxes and
bins, equipment, and the like, the objects may be hung from a wall. A mounting
bracket may
be secured to the wall, and the object may be hung from the mounting bracket,
such that the
object is hung from the wall via the mounting bracket. The mounting bracket is
typically
secured to a stud of the wall. However, each wall has a limited number of
studs, and the
brackets are secured to the studs where a user may access with relative ease,
which limits
the number of brackets that may be secured to the wall.
[0003] To increase the number of mounting brackets that may be secured to the
wall, a wall
panel assembly may first be secured to the wall. Existing wall panel
assemblies comprise a
plurality of wall panels that are connected together. The wall panel assembly
is typically
secured to two adjacent studs, such that the wall panel assembly extends
between the
adjacent studs. The wall panel assembly defines one or more recesses to retain
the
mounting bracket. The one or more recesses extend along the length of the wall
panel
assembly, such that a plurality of mounting brackets may be retained by the
wall panel
assembly.
[0004] Unfortunately, existing mounting brackets are limited to being retained
by one recess
of the wall panel assembly, and are not securable to the wall panel assembly.
Moreover,
while an existing trim is connected to the lowermost panel of an existing wall
panel
assembly, mounting brackets are not securable to the lowermost panel of the
wall panel
assembly.
SUMMARY
[0005] In one aspect, there is provided an end trim that is connectible to a
panel, the panel
comprising a panel-defined recess, the end trim comprising: a trim-defined
recess; and
wherein the end trim is configured for co-operation with the panel such that:
the end trim is
connectible to the panel, such that a connected trim and panel is established;
while the
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Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

connected trim and panel is established: the panel-defined recess is disposed
for connection
to a first connector of a mounting assembly; and the trim-defined recess is
disposed for
connection to a second connector of the mounting assembly; while the connected
trim and
panel is secured to a mounting wall: insertion of the first connector into the
panel-defined
recess is with effect that a retained configuration is established, wherein,
in the retained
configuration: the mounting assembly is vertically supported by the panel, and
displacement
of the mounting assembly, relative to the connected trim and panel, in a
direction away from
the mounting wall, is opposed; the trim-defined recess is configured for co-
operation with the
mounting assembly such that, while the retained configuration is established,
insertion of the
second connector into the trim-defined recess is with effect that a rotation-
resistant
configuration is established, wherein, in the rotation-resistant
configuration: rotation of the
mounting assembly, relative to the connected trim and panel, in a direction
away from the
mounting wall, is opposed.
[0006] In another aspect, there is provided a kit for a wall panel assembly,
comprising: a
panel, comprising: a panel-defined recess; and an end trim, comprising: a trim-
defined
recess; wherein the end trim is configured for co-operation with the panel
such that: the end
trim is connectible to the panel, such that a connected trim and panel is
established; while
the connected trim and panel is established: the panel-defined recess is
disposed for
connection to a first connector of a mounting assembly; and the trim-defined
recess is
disposed for connection to a second connector of the mounting assembly; while
the
connected trim and panel is secured to a mounting wall: insertion of the first
connector into
the panel-defined recess is with effect that a retained configuration is
established, wherein,
in the retained configuration: the mounting assembly is vertically supported
by the panel, and
displacement of the mounting assembly, relative to the connected trim and
panel, in a
direction away from the mounting wall, is opposed; the trim-defined recess is
configured for
co-operation with the mounting assembly such that, while the retained
configuration is
established, insertion of the second connector into the trim-defined recess is
with effect that
a rotation-resistant configuration is established, wherein, in the rotation-
resistant
configuration:rotation of the mounting assembly, relative to the connected
trim and panel, in
a direction away from the mounting wall, is opposed.
[0007] Other aspects will be apparent from the description and drawings
provided herein.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0008] In the figures, which illustrate example embodiments,
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[0009] Figure 1 is a side elevation view of an example embodiment of a panel;
[0010] Figure 2 is an enlarged view of a portion of the panel of Figure 1, the
portion of the
panel identified by window 2 in Figure 1;
[0011] Figure 3 is an enlarged view of a portion of the panel of Figure 1, the
portion of the
panel identified by window 3 in Figure 1;
[0012] Figure 4 is a side elevation view of a wall panel assembly including
the panel of
Figure 1;
[0013] Figure 5 is a side elevation view of a panel defined configuration
disposed at a first
end of the panel of Figure 1, with a projection disposed in a relative
movement effective
configuration;
[0014] Figure 6 is another enlarged view of a portion of the panel of Figure
1, the portion of
the panel identified by window 3 in Figure 1, wherein an interacting portion
is disposed in a
pre-deformation configuration;
[0015] Figure 7 is an enlarged view of the portion of the panel of Figure 1,
the portion of the
panel identified by window 3 in Figure 1, wherein the interacting portion is
disposed in an
interference effective configuration;
[0016] Figure 8 is enlarged view of a portion of the panel of Figure 1, the
portion of the panel
identified by window 3 in Figure 1, wherein the interacting portion is
disposed in an
interference ineffective configuration;
[0017] Figure 9 is a side elevation view of a panel-defined configuration
disposed at a first
end of the panel of Figure 1, and a panel-defined configuration disposed at a
second end of
another panel, wherein an interacting portion of the panel-defined
configuration disposed at
the second end of the another panel is disposed in a pre-deformation
configuration;
[0018] Figure 10 is a side elevation view of a panel-defined configuration
disposed at a first
end of the panel of Figure 1, and a panel-defined configuration disposed at a
second end of
another panel, wherein an interacting portion of the panel-defined
configuration disposed at
the second end of the another panel is disposed in an interference ineffective
configuration;
[0019] Figure 11 is an enlarged view of a portion of the wall panel assembly
of Figure 4, the
portion of the panel identified by window 11 in Figure 4;
[0020] Figure 12 is a side elevation view of the wall panel assembly of Figure
4;
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Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[0021] Figure 13 is a side elevation view of a wall panel assembly, the wall
panel assembly
including an alternate embodiment of the panel of Figure 1;
[0022] Figure 14 is a side elevation view of an alternate embodiment of the
panel of Figure
1;
[0023] Figure 15 is a side elevation view of an alternate embodiment of the
panel of Figure
1;
[0024] Figure 16 is a side elevation view of a wall panel assembly comprising
panels of
Figure 15;
[0025] Figure 17 is a side elevation view of a wall panel assembly comprising
panels of an
alternate embodiment of the panel of Figure 1;
[0026] Figure 18 is a side elevation view of an alternate embodiment of the
panel of Figure
1;
[0027] Figure 19 is a side elevation view of an alternate embodiment of the
panel of Figure
18;
[0028] Figure 20 is a side elevation view of a trim for connecting with a
panel defined
configuration disposed at a first end of the panel of Figure 1;
[0029] Figure 21 is a side elevation view of a trim for connecting with a
panel defined
configuration disposed at a second end of the panel of Figure 1;
[0030] Figure 22 is an alternate embodiment of the trim of Figure 21;
[0031] Figure 23 is a side elevation view of a wall panel assembly comprising
the panel of
Figure 14 and the trim of Figure 21;
[0032] Figure 24 is a side elevation view of a wall panel assembly comprising
the panel of
Figure 17 and the trim of Figure 22;
[0033] Figure 25 is a side elevation view of a wall panel assembly comprising
the panel of
Figure 18 and the trim of Figure 21;
[0034] Figure 26 is a side elevation view of a wall panel assembly comprising
the panel of
Figure 20 and the trim of Figure 22;
[0035] Figure 27 is a perspective view of a wall panel assembly connected to a
wall;
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Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[0036] Figure 28 is an exploded view of the wall panel assembly of Figure 27;
[0037] Figure 29 is a front perspective view of a mounting assembly, with the
mounting
assembly disposed in a retracted configuration;
[0038] Figure 30 is a side elevation view of a bracket of the mounting
assembly of Figure
29;
[0039] Figure 31 is a side elevation view of the mounting assembly of Figure
29 retained to
a wall panel assembly;
[0040] Figure 32 is a side elevation view of a bracket connector of a bracket
being inserted
into a cavity of a wall panel assembly;
[0041] Figure 33 is an enlarged view of the mounting assembly and wall panel
assembly of
Figure 31, the portion identified by window 33 in Figure 31;
[0042] Figure 34 is a rear perspective view of the mounting assembly of Figure
29;
[0043] Figure 35 is a front perspective view of the mounting assembly of
Figure 29, with the
mounting assembly disposed in an extended configuration;
[0044] Figure 36 is a front perspective view of the mounting assembly of
Figure 29,
connected to a panel;
[0045] Figure 37 is a front perspective view of the mounting assembly of
Figure 29,
connected to another panel;
[0046] Figure 38 is a front perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the
mounting
assembly of Figure 29, with the mounting assembly disposed in a retracted
configuration;
[0047] Figure 39 is a front perspective view of the mounting assembly of
Figure 38, with the
mounting assembly disposed in an intermediate configuration;
[0048] Figure 40 is a front perspective view of the mounting assembly of
Figure 38,
connected to a panel;
[0049] Figure 41 is a front perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the
mounting
assembly of Figure 29, with the mounting assembly disposed in a retracted
configuration;
[0050] Figure 42 is a rear perspective view of the mounting assembly of Figure
41;
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[0051] Figure 43 is a front perspective view of the mounting assembly of
Figure 41, with the
mounting assembly disposed in an extended configuration;
[0052] Figure 44 is a rear perspective view of the mounting assembly of Figure
43;
[0053] Figure 45 is a front perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the
mounting
assembly of Figure 41, with the mounting assembly disposed in a retracted
configuration;
[0054] Figure 46 is a rear perspective view of the mounting assembly of Figure
45;
[0055] Figure 47 is a front perspective view of the mounting assembly of
Figure 45, with the
mounting assembly disposed in an extended configuration;
[0056] Figure 48 is a rear perspective view of the mounting assembly of Figure
47;
[0057] Figure 49 is a side elevation view of an alternate embodiment of the
trim of Figure
21;
[0058] Figure 50 is a perspective view of the trim of Figure 49;
[0059] Figure 51 is a side elevation view of a wall panel assembly, comprising
a panel and
the trim of Figure 49;
[0060] Figure 52 is a side elevation view of the wall panel assembly of Figure
51 and a
mounting assembly secured to the wall panel assembly;
[0061] Figure 53 is a perspective view of the wall panel assembly and mounting
assembly of
Figure 52;
[0062] Figure 54 is a side elevation view of the trim of Figure 49, disposed
in an installation-
ready configuration and connected to the mounting wall, and a panel connected
to the trim;
[0063] Figure 55 is a side elevation view of the trim of Figure 49, disposed
in an installation-
ineffective configuration and connected to the mounting wall;
[0064] Figure 56 is a side elevation view of the trim of Figure 49, disposed
in an installation-
ineffective configuration and connected to the mounting wall, and a panel
connected to the
trim;
[0065] Figure 57 is a side elevation view of an alternate embodiment of the
trim of Figure
49;
6
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[0066] Figure 58 is a perspective view of the trim of Figure 57;
[0067] Figure 59 is a side elevation view of the trim of Figure 57, disposed
in an installation-
ready configuration;
[0068] Figure 60 is a side elevation view of the trim of Figure 57, disposed
in an installation-
ready configuration and connected to a mounting wall;
[0069] Figure 61 is a side elevation view of a wall panel assembly, comprising
a panel
connected to the trim of Figure 60;
[0070] Figure 62 is a side elevation view of the wall panel assembly of Figure
61 and a
mounting assembly secured to the wall panel assembly;
[0071] Figure 63 is a perspective view of the wall panel assembly and mounting
assembly
of Figure 62;
[0072] Figure 64 is a side elevation of the trim of Figure 57 with a base
portion disposed
rearwardly of the trim defined first connection system counterpart of the
second connection
system;
[0073] Figure 65 is a side elevation view of an alternate embodiment of the
trim of Figure
57;
[0074] Figure 66 is a perspective view of the trim of Figure 65.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0075] Figure 1 depicts an embodiment of a panel 100. Figure 4 and Figure 12
depict a wall
panel assembly 10, including a first panel 100 and a second panel 100 that are
connected
together. As depicted, the wall panel assembly 10 is established by the
connection of the
wall panels such that the wall panels are disposed in adjacent relationship.
In some
embodiments, for example, each one of the panels 100 of the panel assembly 10
is identical.
In some embodiments, for example, at least one of the plurality of panels 100
of the panel
assembly 10 is different from the other panels 100 of the assembly 10. It is
understood that
the wall panel assembly 10 can include more than two panels 100, connected
together and
disposed in adjacent relationship. Each one of the panels 100, independently,
is configured
to be secured to a mounting wall 1 (e.g. a wall of a building structure).
Figure 27 depicts the
wall panel assembly 10 connected to a wall 1, such that the panels 100 are
disposed in a
vertical series. Figure 28 is an exploded view of the wall panel assembly 10
of Figure 27. In
7
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

some embodiments, for example, the wall panel assembly 10 further includes one
or more
trims, for example, a trim 2200 connected to the uppermost one of the panels
100 of the
assembly 10, or a trim 2300 connected to the lowermost one of the panels 100
of the
assembly 10. As depicted in Figure 4, a panel 100 is connected to another
panel 100, and
the panel 100 is also connected to the trim 2200.
[0076] As depicted in Figure 1, the panel 100 defines a central longitudinal
axis 1001. In
some embodiments, for example, the axis 1001 is perpendicular to a
longitudinal axis 2 (e.g.
parallel to an axis of extrusion) of the panel, as depicted in Figure 27. The
panel 100 further
defines a first end 101, a second end 102 that is opposite the first end 101,
a first side 103,
and a second side 1031 disposed on an opposite side of the panel relative to
the first side
103.
[0077] The first side 103 of the panel 100 includes a front facing wall 14
that defines a front
facing surface 104 configured for being visible while the panel 100 is secured
to the wall 1.
In some embodiments, for example, the visible surface of the panel 10 is
defined by a planar
continuous surface having a minimum surface area of at least 3 inches squared.
In some
embodiments, for example, the minimum width of the outermost surface 104,
measured
along the axis 1001, is at least 1 inch. In some embodiments, for example, the
minimum
length of the outermost surface 104, measured along the axis 2, as depicted in
Figure 27, is
at least 3 inches. The second side 1031 of the panel 100 includes a rear
facing wall 16 that
defines a rear-facing surface or wall-opposing surface 106 that is configured
for opposing
the wall while the panel 100 is secured to the wall. In some embodiments, for
example, the
panel 100 includes a wall covering portion 12, wherein, while the panel 100 is
secured to the
wall 1, the wall covering portion covers a portion of the wall 1, such that
the covered portion
of the wall 1 is occluded from view. In some embodiments, for example, the
wall covering
portion of the panel 100 includes the front facing wall 14 and the rear facing
wall 16.
[0078] In some embodiments, for example, the panel 100 further comprises a
plurality of
ribs 108 that connect the first side 103 and the second side 1031. In some
embodiments, for
example, the ribs 108 are configured to support a load that is supported by
the panel 100
(e.g. the load that is mounted to a mounting assembly 500 that is retained to
the panel 100).
In some embodiments, for example, the ribs 108 are configured such that the
load supported
by the panel 100 is distributed about the panel 100
[0079] In some embodiments, for example, the panel 100 is connectible to
another panel
100, such that connected first and second panels are established, for example,
to define a
wall panel assembly 10. Similar to the panel 100, the second panel 100 is
configured to be
8
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

secured to the wall, and defines a wall covering portion 12, a first end 101,
a second
opposite end 102, a first side 103, and a second opposite side 1031. The first
side 103
includes a front facing wall 14 that defines an outermost surface 104
configured for being
visible while the panel 100 is secured to the wall, and the second side 1031
includes a rear
facing wall 16 that defines a wall-opposing surface 106 configured for
opposing the wall
while the panel 100 is secured to the wall.
[0080] In some embodiments, for example, the panel 100 defines, at the first
end 101, a
panel-defined configuration 20, which includes a first connection system
counterpart
configuration 30, and, at the second end 102, a panel-defined configuration
40, which
includes a second connection system counterpart configuration 50. Similarly,
the second
panel 100 defines, at the first end 101, a panel-defined configuration 20,
which includes a
first connection system counterpart configuration 30, and, at the second end
102, a panel-
defined configuration 40, which includes a second connection system
counterpart
configuration 50. The connection of the first panel 100 and the second panel
100 is effected
by interaction of one of the first connection system counterpart configuration
30 and the
second connection system counterpart configuration 50, of the first panel 100,
and the other
of the first connection system counterpart configuration 30 and the second
connection
system counterpart configuration 50, of the second panel 100.
[0081] The connection of a first panel 100 and a second panel 100 is effected
between the
first connection system counterpart configuration 30 of one of the first and
second panels
and the second connection system counterpart configuration 50 of the other one
of the first
and second panels. In some embodiments, for example, one of the first
connection system
counterpart configuration 30 and the second connection system counterpart
configuration 50
(in the illustrated embodiment, this is the first connection system
counterpart configuration
30) is a male connection system counterpart configuration, and the other one
of the first
connection system counterpart configuration 30 and the second connection
system
counterpart configuration 50 (in the illustrated embodiment, this is the
second connection
system counterpart configuration 50) is a female connection system counterpart

configuration, such that the connection of the first and second panels 100 is
effectuated by
connection the male connection system counterpart configuration, of one of the
first and
second panels 100, and the female connection system counterpart configuration
of the other
one of the first and second panels 100. In some embodiments, for example, the
connection
includes a snap fit connection. In some embodiments, for example, the
connection includes
an interference fit connection. In some embodiments, for example, the
connection includes a
friction fit connection.
9
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[0082] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 2, the panel-
defined
configuration 20 includes a fastener-receiving portion 116 that is configured
to receive one or
more mechanical fasteners 8, for example, screws, bolts, pins, and the like,
to connect the
panel 100 to a wall 1. The fastener-receiving portion 116 includes a fastener-
engaging
surface 118. The fastener-engaging surface 118 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 panel 100 while the fastener-engaging surface 118 is
engaged to the
head of the fastener. In some embodiments, for example, the connection of the
panel 100 to
the wall 1 is effectuated by penetration of the fastener-receiving portion 116
with the
mechanical fastener such that the mechanical fastener extends through the
fastener-
receiving portion 116 and into the wall 1, and the head of the mechanical
fastener is bearing
against the fastener-engaging surface 118, urging the panel 100 into contact
engagement
with the wall 1.
[0083] In some embodiments, for example, the fastener-receiving portion 116
includes a
fastener locator 120 for locating placement of a fastener in a fastener
effective position, and
for guiding the penetration of the panel 100 by the mechanical fastener. In
some
embodiments, for example, the fastener locator 120 is defined by a panel
member 119, as
depicted in Figure 2. In some embodiments, for example, the fastener is
disposed in the
fastener effective position while the fastener is disposed perpendicular to
the wall 1 to which
the panel 100 is to be connected. In some embodiments, for example, the
fastener locator
120 includes a groove. In some embodiments, for example, the fastener locator
120 is
configured to receive the tip of a fastener. In some embodiments, for example,
the fastener
locator 120 is sufficiently deep and wide to receive the tip of the fastener.
In some
embodiments, for example, the fastener locator 120 and the tip of the fastener
are co-
operatively configured such that, while the tip of the fastener is received in
the fastener
locator 120, the position of the fastener-receiving portion 116 is identified
for a user to fasten
the panel 100 to a wall 1. In some embodiments, for example, the fastener
locator 120 and
the tip of the fastener are co-operatively configured such that, while the tip
of the fastener is
received in the fastener locator 120, the fastener is oriented such that the
fastener is able to
fasten the panel 100 to a wall 1 in response to penetration of the fastener
receiving portion
116. In some embodiments, for example, the groove 120 is defined on the
fastener-
engaging surface 118.
[0084] To connect the panel 100 to a wall 1, the panel 100 is disposed in
abutting
engagement against the wall 1, the fastener is emplaced via the fastener
locator 120 in the
fastening effective position, and penetrated through the fastener-engaging
surface 118 the
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

panel 100 and further penetrated through the fastener receiving portion 116,
until the
fastener engages and penetrates into the wall, such that the panel 100 is
coupled to the wall
via the fastener.
[0085] In some embodiments, for example, while the panel 100 is connected to
the wall 1,
for example, via a fastener, the visible portion of the outermost surface 104
is parallel to the
surface of the wall 1 on which the panel 100 is mounted. In some embodiments,
for
example, while the panel 100 is connected to the wall 1 via the penetration of
the fastener
through the panel 100 and into the wall 1, the fastener is retained by the
panel member 118.
[0086] In some embodiments, for example, the panel 100 is co-operable with
another panel
for concealing the fastener while the connection is established between the
panel 100 and
the another panel 100 via the first connection system counterpart
configuration 30 and the
second connection system counterpart configuration 50.
[0087] In some embodiments, for example, the first panel 100 the second panel
100 are co-
operatively configured such that, while the first panel 100 the second panel
100 are
connected, and at least one of the first and second panels 100 are secured to
a wall 1, for
each one of the first panel 100 the second panel 100, independently, the panel
is secured to
the wall such that displacement of the panel, relative to the wall, at least
within a plane that
is parallel to the surface of the wall, and in a direction away from the other
panel, is opposed
(e.g. prevented).
[0088] In some embodiments, for example, the visible surfaces of first panel
100 the second
panel 100 are co-planar while the two panels are connected to provide an
aesthetically
pleasing appearance. In some embodiments, for example, the visible surface of
the first
panel 100 is defined by a planar continuous surface having a surface area of
at least 3
inches squared. In some embodiments, for example, the visible surface of the
second panel
100 is defined by a planar continuous surface having a surface area of at
least 3 inches
squared.
[0089] Figure 2 depicts an example embodiment of the first connection system
counterpart
configuration 30. As depicted in Figure 2, the first connection system
counterpart
configuration 30 includes a first connection system counterpart 110 of a first
connection
system 32. In some embodiments, for example, the first connection system
counterpart 110
of the first connection system 32 includes a notch 124. The notch 124 is
configured to
receive a rearward projection 158 for connecting the panel 100 and an adjacent
panel 100.
In some embodiments, for example, while the rearward projection 158 is
disposed in or
11
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

received in the notch 124, the connection between the panel 100 and the
adjacent panel 100
is retained.
[0090] As depicted in Figure 2, the panel defined configuration 20 includes an
arm 122. In
some embodiments, for example, the arm 122 is configured to support an
interacting portion
154 of the second connection system counterpart configuration 50 of an
adjacent panel 100
while the panel 100 is connected to the adjacent panel 100. In some
embodiments, for
example, as depicted in Figure 2, the notch 124 of the first connection system
32 is defined
by the arm 122.
[0091] In some embodiments, for example, the arm 122 is a retaining surface-
defining
configuration 122, which includes a retaining surface-defining wall 123 that
defines a
retaining surface 134. The retaining surface 134 is configured to oppose
displacement of a
mounting assembly 500, for example, a bracket 502 of the mounting assembly 500
that is
retained by the panel 100.
[0092] As depicted in Figure 2, the first connection system counterpart
configuration 30
includes a first connection system counterpart 114 of a second connection
system 34. In
some embodiments, for example, the first connection system counterpart 114 of
the second
connection system 34 includes an insertable projection 114.
[0093] In some embodiments, for example, the projection 114 is configured to
be received in
a recess 164 of the panel defined configuration 40 of an adjacent panel 100,
for connecting
the panel 100 and the adjacent panel 100. In some embodiments, the receiving
of the
projection 114 in the recess 164 includes a friction fit. In some embodiments,
the receiving
of the projection 114 in the recess 164 includes an interference fit.
[0094] In some embodiments, for example, the projection 114 is sufficiently
wide to increase
the structural strength of the projection 114 and the connection between the
first panel 100
and the second panel 100, and to increase the air flow through the projection
114.
[0095] In some embodiments, for example, the projection 114 is configured to
support the
interacting portion 60 of the second connection system counterpart
configuration 50 of an
adjacent panel 100 while the panel 100 is connected to the adjacent panel 100.
[0096] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 2, the
projection 114
includes an urging surface 115. In some embodiments, for example, the urging
surface 115
is angled relative to the outermost surface 104. In some embodiments, for
example, the
urging surface 115 defines a normal axis, the outermost surface 104 defines a
normal axis,
12
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

and an acute angle defined between said normal axes has a minimum value of at
least 10
degrees. In some embodiments, for example, said acute angle has a value of 45
degrees.
In some embodiments, for example, the urging surface 115 is configured to
engage with the
interacting portion 60 of the second connection system counterpart
configuration 50, and to
urge the interacting portion 60 in a direction away from the axis 1001, such
that
displacement of the first panel 100 and the second panel 100 towards each
other is
effectible to effect the interaction between the first connection system
counterpart
configuration 30 and the second connection system counterpart configuration
50, to connect
the first panel 100 and the second panel 100.
[0097] In some embodiments, for example, the projection 114 is connected to a
residual
panel portion, wherein the residual panel portion is the portion of the panel
that excludes the
projection 114. In some embodiments, for example, the projection 114 is
configurable in a
relative movement-effective configuration, as depicted in Figure 5.
[0098] As depicted in Figure 2, in some embodiments, for example, the
projection 114 is
connected to the fastener receiving portion 116, and the retaining surface
defining
configuration 122 is also connected to the fastener receiving portion 116,
wherein the
projection 114 and the retaining surface-defining configuration 112 are
disposed on opposite
sides of the fastener receiving portion 116.
[0099] In some embodiments, for example, the panel-defined configuration 20
includes a
recess 126, configured to receive a second connection system counterpart 160
of the
second connection system 34 of the panel-defined configuration 40 of an
adjacent panel
100, for effecting connection of the connected panel 100 and the adjacent
panel 100. As
depicted in Figure 2, the recess 126 is defined below the projection 114, and
between the
projection 114 and the fastener-receiving portion 116.
[00100] As depicted in Figure 2, in some embodiments, for example, the
panel-
defined configuration 20 includes a rear wall configuration 70, comprising a
first wall 72 and
a second wall 74. As depicted, the second wall 74 is disposed rearwardly of
the first wall 72,
and extending from the rear-facing wall 16. The rear wall configuration 70
connects the first
connection system counterpart configuration 30, the fastener-receiving portion
116, and the
retaining surface defining configuration 122 to the wall covering portion 12.
In some
embodiments, for example, the rear wall configuration 70 extends between: 1)
the fastener-
receiving portion 116, and 2) the wall covering portion 12. In some
embodiments, for
example, the rear wall configuration 70 is disposed in force transmission
communication with
the retaining surface defining configuration 122.
13
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[00101] In some embodiments, for example, the first wall 72 includes an
outer surface
72A, and the second wall 74 includes an outer surface 74A. In some
embodiments, for
example, the outer surface 72A of the first wall 72 is a front facing surface
of the rear wall
configuration 70. In some embodiments, for example, the outer surface 74A of
the second
wall 74 is a rear facing surface of the rear wall configuration 70. The
surface 74A is
disposed, relative to the surface 72A, on an opposite side of the rear wall
configuration 70.
While the panel 100 is secured to a wall 1, the outer surface 74A of the
second wall is
disposed in opposing relationship to the wall 1.
[00102] As depicted in Figure 1 and Figure 3, the panel 100 includes, at
the second
end 102, the panel-defined configuration 40. The panel-defined configuration
40 includes
the second connection system counterpart configuration 50.
[00103] The second connection system counterpart configuration 50 includes
an
interacting portion 60. The front facing wall 14 includes the interacting
portion 60, the
interacting portion 60, having a terminal end that is, in some embodiments, a
free end, and
extending from a joint 153. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example,
the front
facing wall 14 is defined by the interacting portion 60 and a residual front
facing wall portion
15, wherein the interacting portion 60 is connected to the residual front
facing wall portion 15
at the joint 153. The interacting portion 60 includes a fastener receiver-
covering portion 154
and a second connection system counterpart 158 of the first connection system
32. In some
embodiments, for example, the second connection system counterpart 158 of the
first
connection system 32 includes a projection 158. In some embodiments, for
example, the
projection 158 extends perpendicularly, in a rearwardly direction, from the
covering portion
154. In some embodiments, for example, the second connection system
counterpart 158 of
the first connection system 32 is disposed at the terminal end of the
interacting portion 60.
The projection 158 is configured to interact with the notch 124 of another
panel 100, with
effect that the projection 158 and the notch 124 are co-operatively disposed
in a relative
movement interference relationship, as explained in further detail below.
[00104] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 3, the
interacting
portion 60 has a width 60W having a minimum value of at least 0.375 inches.
[00105] In some embodiments, for example, while the panel 100 is connected
to an
adjacent panel 100, the covering portion 154 conceals at least a portion of,
for example, the
entirety of, the first connection system counterpart configuration 30 of the
adjacent panel
100. In some embodiments, for example, while the panel 100 is connected to an
adjacent
panel 100 from view, the covering portion 154 conceals at least a portion of,
for example, the
14
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

entirety of, the fastener receiving portion 116 of the adjacent panel 100 from
view. In some
embodiments, for example, while the panel 100 is connected to an adjacent
panel 100, and
the adjacent panel 100 is secured to the wall 1 by a fastener, the covering
portion 154
conceals at least a portion of, for example, the entirety of, the fastener
from view.
[00106] The covering portion 154 includes an outermost surface 156
configured for
being visible while the panel 100 is connected to another panel 100, and while
the
connected panel 100 and the another panel 100 are secured to the wall 1. In
some
embodiments, for example, the outermost surface 156 including a continuous
surface that
extends along the length of the covering portion 154.
[00107] In some embodiments, for example, the visible surface of the
covering portion
154 has a minimum surface area of at least 1.125 inches squared. In some
embodiments,
for example, the visible surface of the covering portion 154 has a minimum
width of at least
3/8 inches. In some embodiments, for example, the visible surface of the
covering portion
154 has a minimum length of at least 3 inches.
[00108] The concealing of the fastener of the another panel by the panel
100, while
the connection is established between the panel 100 and the another panel via
the
connection system counterpart configurations 30, 50, is effectuated by the
covering portion
154. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the first panel 100 is
co-operable
with the second panel 100 such that, while the connection between the first
and second
panels is established via the connection system counterpart configuration 30
of the first
panel and the connection system counterpart configuration 50 of the second
panel, the
covering portion 154 is covering (e.g. concealing) the fastener, which is
effectuating the
connection of the first panel 100 to the wall 1.
[00109] In some embodiments, for example, the interacting portion 60 is
configurable
in a pre-deformation configuration, as depicted in Figure 3 and Figure 6. In
some
embodiments, for example, the interacting portion 60 is disposed in the pre-
deformation
while there is an absence of interaction (e.g. absence of connection or
engagement)
between the panel 100 and an adjacent panel 100.
[00110] In some embodiments, for example, in the pre-deformation
configuration, the
extending of the interacting portion 60 from the joint 153 is with effect that
the interacting
portion 60 is tapering rearwardly, from the residual front facing wall portion
15, in a direction
towards the central longitudinal axis 1001 of the panel 100. In some of these
embodiments,
for example, in the pre-deformation configuration, a normal axis of the
outermost surface
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

156 of the covering portion 154 is disposed at an acute angle relative to the
normal axis of
an outermost surface 15A of the residual front facing wall portion 15, and in
some of these
embodiments, for example, the acute angle has a minimum value of at least 3
degrees.
[00111] In some embodiments, for example, the interacting portion 60 is
configurable
in an interference effective configuration, as depicted in Figure 7. In some
embodiments, for
example, the interacting portion 60 is disposed in the interference effective
configuration
while the panel 100 is connected to the adjacent panel 100 via the connection
system
counterpart configurations 30, 50.
[00112] In the interference-effective configuration, the extending of the
interacting
portion 60 from the joint 153 is with effect that the outermost surface 104 of
the front facing
wall 14 is a planar surface (e.g. outermost surface 156 of the covering
portion 154 is co-
planar with the outermost surface 15A of the residual front facing wall
portion 15).
[00113] While the interacting portion 60 is disposed in the interference-
effective
configuration, the second connection system counterpart 158 (e.g. the
projection 158) of the
panel 100 is receivable in the notch 124 of the adjacent panel 100, such that
the projection
158 and the notch 124 of the adjacent panel 100 are co-operable to interfere
with relative
movement between the panel 100 and the adjacent panel 100. In some
embodiments, for
example, while the panel 100 and the adjacent panel 100 are disposed in
abutting
engagement with a wall 1, and the projection 158 of the panel 100 is disposed
in or received
in the notch 124 of the adjacent panel 100, the projection 158 and the notch
124 are co-
operatively configured to interfere with displacement of the one of the panel
100 and the
adjacent panel 100, relative to the other one of the panel 100 and the
adjacent panel 100,
within a plane that is parallel to the surface of the wall 1, and in a
direction away from the
other one of the panel 100 and the adjacent panel 100.
[00114] The interacting portion 60 is deformable for effectuating
transitioning of the
interacting portion 60 from the pre-deformation configuration to the
interference-effective
configuration. In some embodiments, for example, the transitioning of the
interacting portion
60 from the pre-deformation configuration to the interference-effective
configuration includes
a forwardly displacement of the second connection system counterpart 158 of
the first
connection system 32.
[00115] In some embodiments, for example, the forwardly displacement of the
second
connection system counterpart 158 of the first connection system 32, for
transitioning of the
interacting portion 60 from the pre-deformation configuration to the
interference-effective
16
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

configuration, includes a displacement of the second connection system
counterpart 158 of
the first connection system 32 by a distance of at least 0.030 inches in a
forwardly direction.
[00116] In some embodiments, for example, the transition of the interacting
portion 60
from the pre-deformation configuration to the interference-effective
configuration includes
rotation of the interacting portion 60. In some embodiments, for example, the
interacting
portion 60 is rotatable about the joint 153, as depicted in Figure 3. In some
embodiments,
for example, the angle of rotation of the covering portion 60 from the pre-
deformation
configuration to the interference-effective configuration has a minimum value
of at least 3
degrees.
[00117] In some embodiments, for example, the interacting portion 60 is
configurable
in an interference ineffective configuration, as depicted in Figure 8. In some
embodiments,
for example, the interacting portion 60 is disposed in the interference
ineffective
configuration while: 1) the panel 100 is engaged with the adjacent panel 100
and being
displaced towards the adjacent panel 100 to effect the connection between the
panel 100
and the adjacent panel 100, or 2) the connection between a connected panel 100
and
adjacent panel 100 is to be defeated.
[00118] In some embodiments, for example, in the interference ineffective
configuration, the extending of the interacting portion 60 from the joint 153
is with effect that
the interacting portion 60 is tapering forwardly from the residual front
facing wall portion 15,
in a direction away from the central longitudinal axis 1001 of the panel 100.
In some of
these embodiments, for example, in the interference ineffective configuration,
a normal axis
of the outermost surface 156 of the covering portion 154 is disposed at an
acute angle
relative to the normal axis of the outermost surface 15A of the residual front
facing wall
portion 15, and in some of these embodiments, for example, the acute angle has
a minimum
value of at least 3 degrees.
[00119] While the interacting portion 60 is disposed in the interference-
ineffective
configuration, the panel 100 is displaceable towards, or away from, the
adjacent panel 100,
while the second connection system counterpart configuration 50 is disposed in
an
interacting relationship (e.g. contact engagement) with the first connection
system
counterpart configuration 30 of the adjacent panel 100, for example, to effect
the connection
between the panel 100 and the adjacent panel 100, or to defeat the connection
between the
connected panel 100 and the adjacent panel 100.
17
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[00120] The interacting portion 60 is deformable for effectuating
transitioning of the
interacting portion 60 from the interference-effective configuration to the
interference
ineffective configuration. In some embodiments, for example, the transitioning
of the
interacting portion 60 from the interference-effective configuration to the
interference-
ineffective configuration includes a forwardly displacement of the second
connection system
counterpart 158 of the first connection system 32.
[00121] In some embodiments, for example, the forwardly displacement of the
second
connection system counterpart 158 of the first connection system 32, for
transitioning of the
interacting portion 60 from the interference-effective configuration to the
interference-
ineffective configuration, includes a displacement of the second connection
system
counterpart 158 of the first connection system 32 by a distance of at least
0.030 inches in a
forwardly direction.
[00122] In some embodiments, for example, the transition of the interacting
portion 60
from the interference-effective configuration to the interference-ineffective
configuration
includes rotation of the interacting portion 60 about the joint 153, as
depicted in Figure 3. In
some embodiments, for example, the angle of rotation of the covering portion
60 from the
interference-effective configuration to the interference-ineffective
configuration has a
minimum value of at least 3 degrees.
[00123] In some embodiments, for example, the interacting portion 60 is
urged by a
bias to the pre-deformation configuration. In some embodiments, for example,
the bias is a
material bias of the interacting portion 60. In some embodiments, for example,
the bias of
the interacting portion 60 is effected by the extension of the interacting
portion 60 towards
the central longitudinal axis 1001 of the panel 100 while there is an absence
of connection
between the panel 100 and another panel 100. In this respect, in some
embodiments, for
example, the interacting portion 154 is resilient.
[00124] In some embodiments, for example, the interacting portion 60 is
resiliently
deformable or resiliently displaceable between: 1) the pre-deformation
configuration, 2) the
interference effective configuration, and 3) the interference ineffective
configuration (e.g.
between the pre-deformation configuration and the interference effective
configuration;
between the pre-deformation configuration and the interference ineffective
configuration;
between the interference effective configuration and the interference
ineffective
configuration). In some embodiments, for example, the interacting portion 60
is
transitionable between: 1) the pre-deformation configuration, 2) the
interference effective
configuration, and 3) the interference ineffective configuration (e.g. between
the pre-
18
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

deformation configuration and the interference effective configuration;
between the pre-
deformation configuration and the interference ineffective configuration;
between the
interference effective configuration and the interference ineffective
configuration). .
[00125] In some embodiments, for example, the second connection system
counterpart configuration 50 includes a second connection system counterpart
160 of the
second connection system 34. The second connection system counterpart 160 of
the
second connection system 34 includes a wall member 161 disposed rearwardly of
the
interacting portion 60. As depicted in Figure 3, the second connection system
counterpart
160 of the second connection system 34 has a square cross-section. In some
embodiments, for example, the second connection system counterpart 160 of the
second
connection system 34 is defined by the member 161, wherein the member 161 is
extending
from the rear facing wall 16. The second connection system counterpart 160 of
the second
connection system 34 of the panel 100 is configured to be received in the
recess 126 of the
panel-defined configuration 20 of the adjacent panel 100 to effect the
connection between
the panel 100 and the adjacent panel 100. As described in greater detail
herein, the second
connection system counterpart 160 of the panel 100 and the projection 114 of
the adjacent
panel 110 are co-operatively configured such that, while the panel 100 and the
adjacent
panel 100 are connected, displacement of the panel 100, relative to the
adjacent panel 100,
in a direction that is parallel to a normal axis of a wall 1, on which the
panel 100 and the
adjacent panel 100 are disposed in abutting relationship, is opposed (e.g.
prevented).
[00126] As depicted in Figure 3, the panel defined configuration 40
includes an
intermediate wall 162. The intermediate wall 162 is disposed intermediate the
front facing
wall 14 and the rear facing wall 16. The intermediate wall 162 is connected to
the front facing
wall 14 at the joint 153, and extends from the joint 153. In some embodiments,
for example,
the intermediate wall 162 extends from the joint 153 to the wall member 161.
In some
embodiments, for example, the intermediate wall 162 and the residual front
facing wall
portion 15 are disposed in a perpendicular relationship. In some embodiments,
for example,
while the panel 100 is connected to an adjacent panel via the first connection
system
counterpart configuration 30 and the second connection system counterpart
configuration
50, the intermediate wall 162 and the front facing wall 14 are disposed in a
perpendicular
relationship. In some embodiments, for example, while the panel 100 is
connected to an
adjacent panel via the first connection system counterpart configuration 30
and the second
connection system counterpart configuration 50, the intermediate wall 162 and
the covering
portion 154 are disposed in a perpendicular relationship. In some embodiments,
for
19
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

example, the intermediate wall 162 and the wall member 161 are disposed in a
perpendicular relationship.
[00127] In some embodiments, for example, the panel-define configuration 40

includes a recess 164. The recess 164 of the panel 100 is configured to
receive the
projection 114 of the adjacent panel 100 for connecting the panel 100 and the
adjacent
panel 100. The recess 164 is defined by: 1) an inner surface 60A of the
interacting portion
60, an inner surface 1611 of the wall member 161, and 3) the intermediate wall
162, for
example, an intermediate wall surface 1621 of the intermediate wall 162. The
recess 164 is
disposed intermediate the front facing wall 14 and the rear facing wall 16.
[00128] In some embodiments, for example, the panel 100 is configured for
defining a
first panel 100 which is connectible with a second panel 100, for example, via
the first
connection system counterpart configuration 30 of the first panel 100 and the
second
connection system counterpart configuration 50 of the second panel 100. The
connection of
the first and second panels is effected by: 1) snap fit engagement between the
first
connection system counterpart 110 (e.g. the notch 124) of the first connection
system 32, of
the first panel 100, and the second connection system counterpart 158 (e.g.
the rearward
projection 158) of the first connection system 32, of the second panel 100,
and 2) disposition
of the first connection system counterpart 114 (e.g. the projection 114) of
the second
connection system 34, of the first panel 100, in the recess 164 of the second
panel 100, and
disposition of the second connection system counterpart 160 of the second
connection
system 34, of the second panel 100, in the recess 126 of the first panel 100,
such that the
first connection system counterpart 114 (e.g. the projection 114) of the
second connection
system 34, of the first panel 100, is disposed forwardly of the second
connection system
counterpart 160 (e.g. the wall member 161) of the second connection system 34,
of the
second panel 100.
[00129] In some embodiments, for example, the snap-fit engagement between
the
first connection system counterpart 110 (e.g. the notch 124) of the first
connection system
32, of the first panel 100, and the second connection system counterpart 158
(e.g. the
rearward projection 158) of the first connection system 32, of the second
panel 100 is
effected by the displacement of the interacting portion 60 from the
interference ineffective
configuration to the interference effective configuration.
[00130] In some embodiments, for example, while the first and second panels
are
connected, the first connection system counterpart 110 (e.g. the notch 124) of
the first
connection system 32, of the first panel 100, and the second connection system
counterpart
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

158 (e.g. the rearward projection 158) of the first connection system 32, of
the second panel
100 are configured for disposition in a relative movement interference
relationship, as
depicted in Figure 11, wherein, in the relative movement interference
relationship: 1) the
interacting portion 60 is disposed in the interference-effective
configuration, as depicted in
Figure 7, and 2) the first connection system counterpart 110 (e.g. the notch
124) of the first
connection system 32, of the first panel 100, and the second connection system
counterpart
158 (e.g. the rearward projection 158) of the first connection system 32, of
the second panel
100 are co-operatively configured such that displacement of the second panel
100, away
from the first panel 100, along an axis that is: (i) parallel to the wall
surface 12 or the front-
facing surface 104, and (ii) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 2 (e.g.
the axis of extrusion)
of the first panel or the second panel, is opposed, for example, prevented
(e.g. the notch 124
and the projection 158 co-operate to oppose, for example, prevent, pulling
apart of the first
and second panels), such that defeating of the connection of the first and
second panels is
opposed (e.g. prevented). In this respect, in some embodiments, for example,
the snap fit
connection between the first connection system counterpart 110 (e.g. the notch
124) of the
first connection system 32, of the first panel 100, and the second connection
system
counterpart 158 (e.g. the rearward projection 158) of the first connection
system 32, of the
second panel 100 is with effect that displacement of the second panel 100,
away from the
first panel 100, along an axis that is: (i) parallel to the wall surface 12 or
the front-facing
surface 104, and (ii) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 2 (e.g. the axis
of extrusion) of the
first panel or the second panel, is opposed, for example, prevented.
[00131] In some embodiments, for example, while the first and second panels
are
connected, and the panels are abutting against a wall 1, the first connection
system
counterpart 110 (e.g. the notch 124) of the first connection system 32, of the
first panel 100,
and the second connection system counterpart 158 (e.g. the rearward projection
158) of the
first connection system 32, of the second panel 100 are configured for
disposition in a
relative movement interference relationship, wherein, in the relative movement
interference
relationship: 1) the interacting portion 60 is disposed in the interference-
effective
configuration, as depicted in Figure7, and 2) the first connection system
counterpart 110
(e.g. the notch 124) of the first connection system 32, of the first panel
100, and the second
connection system counterpart 158 (e.g. the rearward projection 158) of the
first connection
system 32, of the second panel 100 are co-operatively configured such that
displacement of
the second panel 100, away from the first panel 100, within a plane that is
parallel to the
surface of the wall, is opposed (e.g. prevented), such that defeating of the
connection of the
first and second panels is opposed (e.g. prevented).
21
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[00132] In some embodiments, for example, while the first and second panels
are
connected, and the first panel is secured to a wall 1, for example, by a
fastener, the first
connection system counterpart 110 (e.g. the notch 124) of the first connection
system 32, of
the first panel 100, and the second connection system counterpart 158 (e.g.
the rearward
projection 158) of the first connection system 32, of the second panel 100 are
configured for
disposition in a relative movement interference relationship, wherein, in the
relative
movement interference relationship: 1) the interacting portion 60 is disposed
in the
interference-effective configuration, as depicted in Figure 7, and 2) the
first connection
system counterpart 110 (e.g. the notch 124) of the first connection system 32,
of the first
panel 100, and the second connection system counterpart 158 (e.g. the rearward
projection
158) of the first connection system 32, of the second panel 100 are co-
operatively configured
such that displacement of the second panel 100, away from the first panel 100,
in a direction
that is perpendicular to a normal axis of the surface of the wall or a normal
axis of the front-
facing surface 104, is opposed (e.g. prevented), such that defeating of the
connection of the
first and second panels is opposed (e.g. prevented).
[00133] In some embodiments, for example, while the first connection system

counterpart 110 (e.g. the notch 124) of the first connection system 32, of the
first panel 100,
and the second connection system counterpart 158 (e.g. the rearward projection
158) of the
first connection system 32, of the second panel 100 are disposed in the
relative movement
interference relationship, the second connection system counterpart 158 (e.g.
the rearward
projection 158) of the first connection system 32, of the second panel 100, is
received in the
first connection system counterpart 110 (e.g. the notch 124) of the first
connection system
32, of the first panel 100, such that the interference, to relative movement,
between the first
and second panels, is established, and that defeating of the connection of the
first and
second panels is opposed (e.g. prevented).
[00134] In some embodiments, for example, while the first connection system

counterpart 110 (e.g. the notch 124) of the first connection system 32, of the
first panel 100,
and the second connection system counterpart 158 (e.g. the rearward projection
158) of the
first connection system 32, of the second panel 100 are disposed in the
relative movement
interference relationship, the second connection system counterpart 158 (e.g.
the rearward
projection 158) of the first connection system 32, of the second panel 100 is
engaging the
first connection system counterpart 110 (e.g. the notch 124) of the first
connection system
32, of the first panel 100, such that the interference, to relative movement,
between the first
and second panels, is established, and that defeating of the connection of the
first and
second panels is opposed (e.g. prevented).
22
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[00135] In some embodiments, for example, while the first connection system

counterpart 110 (e.g. the notch 124) of the first connection system 32, of the
first panel 100,
and the second connection system counterpart 158 (e.g. the rearward projection
158) of the
first connection system 32, of the second panel 100 are disposed in the
relative movement
interference relationship, the second connection system counterpart 158 (e.g.
the rearward
projection 158) of the first connection system 32, of the second panel 100 is
bearing against
the first connection system counterpart 110 (e.g. the notch 124) of the first
connection
system 32, of the first panel 100, such that the interference, to relative
movement, between
the first and second panels, is established, and that defeating of the
connection of the first
and second panels is opposed (e.g. prevented).
[00136] In some embodiments, for example, the bias of the interacting
portion 60
resists or opposes (e.g. prevents) defeating of the relative movement
interference
relationship between the first connection system counterpart 110 (e.g. the
notch 124) of the
first connection system 32, of the first panel 100, and the second connection
system
counterpart 158 (e.g. the rearward projection 158) of the first connection
system 32, of the
second panel 100.
[00137] In some embodiments, for example, while the first and second panels
are
connected, the first connection system counterpart 114 (e.g. the projection
114) of the
second connection system 34, of the first panel 100, and the second connection
system
counterpart 160, for example, the wall member 161, of the second connection
system 34, of
the second panel 100, are configured for disposition in a relative movement
interference
relationship, as depicted in Figure 11, wherein, in the relative movement
interference
relationship, the first connection system counterpart 114 (e.g. the projection
114) of the
second connection system 34, of the first panel 100, and the second connection
system
counterpart 160, for example, the wall member 161, of the second connection
system 34, of
the second panel 100, are co-operatively configured such that displacement of
the second
panel 100, away from the first panel 100, in a direction that is parallel to a
normal axis 1041
of the front-facing wall 104 of the first panel or of the second panel, is
opposed, for example,
prevented (e.g. the projection 114 and the wall member 161 co-operate to
oppose, for
example, prevent) lifting of the second panel away from the first panel), such
that defeating
of the connection of the first and second panels is opposed (e.g. prevented).
[00138] In some embodiments, for example, while the first and second panels
are
connected, and the panels are abutting against a wall 1, the first connection
system
counterpart 114 (e.g. the projection 114) of the second connection system 34,
of the first
panel 100, and the second connection system counterpart 160, for example, the
wall
23
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

member 161, of the second connection system 34, of the second panel 100, are
configured
for disposition in a relative movement interference relationship, wherein, in
the relative
movement interference relationship, the first connection system counterpart
114 (e.g. the
projection 114) of the second connection system 34, of the first panel 100,
and the second
connection system counterpart 160, for example, the wall member 161, of the
second
connection system 34, of the second panel 100, are co-operatively configured
such that
displacement of the second panel 100, away from the first panel 100, within a
plane that is
perpendicular to the surface of the wall, is opposed (e.g. prevented), such
that defeating of
the connection of the first and second panels is oppose (prevented).
[00139] In some embodiments, for example, while the first and second panels
are
connected, and the first panel is secured to a wall 1, for example, by a
fastener, the first
connection system counterpart 114 (e.g. the projection 114) of the second
connection
system 34, of the first panel 100, and the second connection system
counterpart 160, for
example, the wall member 161, of the second connection system 34, of the
second panel
100 are configured for disposition in a relative movement interference
relationship, wherein,
in the relative movement interference relationship, the first connection
system counterpart
114 (e.g. the projection 114) of the second connection system 34, of the first
panel 100, and
the second connection system counterpart 160, for example, the wall member
161, of the
second connection system 34, of the second panel 100 are co-operatively
configured such
that displacement of the second panel 100, away from the first panel 100, in a
direction that
is parallel to a normal axis of the surface of the wall, is opposed (e.g.
prevented), such that
defeating of the connection of the first and second panels is opposed (e.g.
prevented).
[00140] In some embodiments, for example, while the first panel 100 is
connected to
the second panel 100, the projection 114 of the first panel is received in the
recess 164 of
the second panel 100, and the second connection system counterpart 160 of the
second
connection system 34 of the second panel 100 is received in the recess 126 of
the first panel
100. In some embodiments, for example, while the projection 114 is received in
the recess
164, the shoulder 114 is disposed in opposing relationship with the
intermediate wall 162,
the covering portion 154, and the second connection system counterpart 160 of
the second
connection system 34.
[00141] In some embodiments, for example, while the projection 114 is
received in the
recess 164, the intermediate wall 162 is configured to oppose (e.g. prevent)
relative
displacement of the first connection system counterpart configuration 30 of
the first panel
100 and the second connection system counterpart configuration 50 of the
second panel
24
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

100 towards each other, with effect that defeating of the connection of the
connected first
panel 100 and the second panel 100 is opposed (e.g. prevented).
[00142] In some embodiments, for example, while the projection 114 is
received in the
recess 164, the covering portion 154 is disposed forwardly of the projection
114, and is
configured to oppose (e.g. prevent) displacement of the first connection
system counterpart
configuration 30 of the first panel 100, relative to the second connection
system counterpart
configuration 50 of the second panel 100, in a direction perpendicular to the
outermost
surface 104 of the first panel 100, with effect that defeating of the
connection of the
connected first panel 100 and the second panel 100 is opposed (e.g.
prevented).
[00143] In some embodiments, for example, while the projection 114 is
received in the
recess 164, the second connection system counterpart 160 of the second
connection system
34 of the second panel 100 is disposed rearwardly of the projection 114, and
is configured to
oppose (e.g. prevent) displacement of the first connection system counterpart
configuration
30 of the first panel 100, relative to the second connection system
counterpart configuration
50 of the second panel 100, away from covering portion 154, in a direction
perpendicular to
the wall-opposing surface 106, with effect that defeating of the connection of
the connected
first panel 100 and the second panel 100 is opposed (e.g. prevented).
[00144] In some embodiments, for example, while the second connection
system
counterpart 160 of the second connection system 34 of the second panel 100 is
received in
the recess 126 of the first panel 100, the second connection system 34 of the
second panel
100 is disposed in opposing relationship with the fastener receiving portion
116 of the first
panel 100, and co-operate to oppose (e.g. prevent) relative displacement of
the first panel
100 and the second panel 100 towards each other, with effect that defeating of
the
connection of the connected first panel 100 and the second panel 100 is
opposed (e.g.
prevented).
[00145] In some embodiments, for example, while the first panel 100 is
connected to
the second panel 100, the second connection system counterpart 160 of the
second
connection system 34 of the second panel 100 is disposed in abutting
relationship with the
fastener receiving portion 116 of the first panel 100.
[00146] In some embodiments, for example, while the first and second panels
are
connected, the first connection system counterpart 110 (e.g. the notch 124) of
the first
connection system 32, of the first panel 100, the second connection system
counterpart 158
(e.g. the rearward projection 158) of the first connection system 32, of the
second panel 100,
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

the first connection system counterpart 114 (e.g. the projection 114) of the
second
connection system 34, of the first panel 100, and the second connection system
counterpart
160, for example, the wall member 161, of the second connection system 34, of
the second
panel 100 are configured for disposition in a relative movement interference
relationship, as
depicted in Figure 11, wherein, in the relative movement interference
relationship: 1) the
interacting portion 60 is disposed in the interference-effective
configuration, and the first
connection system counterpart 110 (e.g. the notch 124) of the first connection
system 32, of
the first panel 100, and the second connection system counterpart 158 (e.g.
the rearward
projection 158) of the first connection system 32, of the second panel 100 are
co-operatively
configured such that displacement of the second panel 100, away from the first
panel 100,
along an axis that is: (i) parallel to the wall surface 12 or the front-facing
surface 104, and (ii)
perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 2 (e.g. the axis of extrusion) of the
first panel or the
second panel, is opposed, for example, prevented (e.g. the notch 124 and the
projection 158
co-operate to oppose, for example, prevent, pulling apart of the first and
second panels), and
2) the first connection system counterpart 114 (e.g. the projection 114) of
the second
connection system 34, of the first panel 100, and the second connection system
counterpart
160, for example, the wall member 161, of the second connection system 34, of
the second
panel 100 are co-operatively configured such that displacement of the second
panel 100,
away from the first panel 100, in a direction that is parallel to a normal
axis 1041 of the front-
facing wall 104 of the second panel, is opposed, for example, prevented (e.g.
the projection
114 and the wall member 161 co-operate to oppose, for example, prevent lifting
of the
second panel away from the first panel), such that defeating of the connection
of the first and
second panels is opposed (e.g. prevented).
[00147] In some embodiments, for example, while the first and second panels
are
connected, and the panels are abutting against a wall 1, the first connection
system
counterpart 110 (e.g. the notch 124) of the first connection system 32, of the
first panel 100,
the second connection system counterpart 158 (e.g. the rearward projection
158) of the first
connection system 32, of the second panel 100, the first connection system
counterpart 114
(e.g. the projection 114) of the second connection system 34, of the first
panel 100, and the
second connection system counterpart 160, for example, the wall member 161, of
the
second connection system 34, of the second panel 100 are configured for
disposition in a
relative movement interference relationship, wherein, in the relative movement
interference
relationship: 1) the interacting portion 60 is disposed in the interference-
effective
configuration, and the first connection system counterpart 110 (e.g. the notch
124) of the first
connection system 32, of the first panel 100, and the second connection system
counterpart
158 (e.g. the rearward projection 158) of the first connection system 32, of
the second panel
26
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

100 are co-operatively configured such that displacement of the second panel
100, away
from the first panel 100, within a plane that is parallel to the surface of
the wall, is opposed,
for example, prevented, and 2) the first connection system counterpart 114
(e.g. the
projection 114) of the second connection system 34, of the first panel 100,
and the second
connection system counterpart 160, for example, the wall member 161, of the
second
connection system 34, of the second panel 100 are co-operatively configured
such that
displacement of the second panel 100, away from the first panel 100, within a
plane that is
perpendicular to the surface of the wall, is opposed, for example, prevented,
such that
defeating of the connection of the first and second panels is opposed, for
example,
prevented.
[00148] In some embodiments, for example, while the first and second panels
are
connected, and the first panel is secured to a wall 1, for example, by a
fastener, the first
connection system counterpart 110 (e.g. the notch 124) of the first connection
system 32, of
the first panel 100, the second connection system counterpart 158 (e.g. the
rearward
projection 158) of the first connection system 32, of the second panel 100,
the first
connection system counterpart 114 (e.g. the projection 114) of the second
connection
system 34, of the first panel 100, and the second connection system
counterpart 160, for
example, the wall member 161, of the second connection system 34, of the
second panel
100 are configured for disposition in a relative movement interference
relationship, wherein,
in the relative movement interference relationship: 1) the interacting portion
60 is disposed in
the interference-effective configuration, and the first connection system
counterpart 110 (e.g.
the notch 124) of the first connection system 32, of the first panel 100, and
the second
connection system counterpart 158 (e.g. the rearward projection 158) of the
first connection
system 32, of the second panel 100 are co-operatively configured such that
displacement of
the second panel 100, away from the first panel 100, in a direction that is
perpendicular to a
normal axis of the surface of the wall, is opposed, for example, prevented,
and 2) the first
connection system counterpart 114 (e.g. the projection 114) of the second
connection
system 34, of the first panel 100, and the second connection system
counterpart 160, for
example, the wall member 161, of the second connection system 34, of the
second panel
100 are co-operatively configured such that displacement of the second panel
100, away
from the first panel 100, in a direction that is parallel to a normal axis of
the surface of the
wall, is opposed, for example, prevented, such that defeating of the
connection of the first
and second panels is opposed (e.g. prevented).
[00149] In some embodiments, for example, the first panel 100 and the
second panel
100 are co-operable such that the first connection system counterpart 110
(e.g. the notch
27
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

124) of the first connection system 32, of the first panel 100, and the second
connection
system counterpart 158 (e.g. the rearward projection 158) of the first
connection system 32,
of the second panel 100 are configured for disposition in a relative movement
effectible
relationship, as depicted in Figure 10. In the relative movement effectible
relationship, the
interacting portion 60 is disposed in the interference-ineffective
configuration, as depicted in
Figure 8, and there is an absence of interference, to relative movement,
between the first
and second panels. In some embodiments, for example, the absence of the
interference, to
relative movement, between the first panel and the second panel, is the
absence of
interference, to relative movement, of the second panel, relative to the first
panel, in a
direction that is along an axis that is: (i) parallel to the wall surface 12
or the front-facing
surface 104, and (ii) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 2 (e.g. the axis
of extrusion) of the
first panel or the second panel (e.g. perpendicular to a normal axis of the
front-facing wall
104 and away from the first panel).
[00150] In some embodiments, for example, while the first and second panels
are
abutting against a wall 1, and the first connection system counterpart 110
(e.g. the notch
124) of the first connection system 32, of the first panel 100, and the second
connection
system counterpart 158 (e.g. the rearward projection 158) of the first
connection system 32,
of the second panel 100 are configured for disposition in the relative
movement effectible
relationship, the absence of the interference, to relative movement, between
the first panel
and the second panel, is the absence of interference, to relative movement, of
the second
panel, relative to the first panel, within a plane that is parallel to the
surface of the wall and
away from the first panel.
[00151] In some embodiments, for example, while the first and second panels
are
abutting against a wall 1, and the first connection system counterpart 110
(e.g. the notch
124) of the first connection system 32, of the first panel 100, and the second
connection
system counterpart 158 (e.g. the rearward projection 158) of the first
connection system 32,
of the second panel 100 are configured for disposition in the relative
movement effectible
relationship, the absence of the interference, to relative movement, between
the first panel
and the second panel, is the absence of interference, to relative movement, of
the second
panel, relative to the first panel, in a direction that is perpendicular to a
normal axis of the
surface of the wall and away from the first panel.
[00152] In some embodiments, for example, the first connection system
counterpart
110 (e.g. the notch 124) of the first connection system 32, of the first panel
100, and the
second connection system counterpart 158 (e.g. the rearward projection 158) of
the first
connection system 32, of the second panel 100 are disposed in a relative
movement
28
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

effectible relationship, as depicted in Figure 10, while: 1) the first and
second panels are
being displaced towards each other to effect the connection between the first
and second
panels, or 2) the first and second panels are being displaced away from each
other to defeat
the connection between connected first and second panels.
[00153] In some embodiments, for example, the transition of the first
connection
system counterpart 110 (e.g. the notch 124) of the first connection system 32,
of the first
panel 100, and the second connection system counterpart 158 (e.g. the rearward
projection
158) of the first connection system 32, of the second panel 100 from the
relative movement
interference relationship to the relative movement effectible relationship is
effected by
transitioning of the interacting portion 60 from the interference-effective
configuration to the
interference-ineffective configuration. In some embodiments, for example, the
transitioning
of the interacting portion 60 from the interference-effective configuration to
the interference-
ineffective configuration is with effect that the interference, to relative
movement, between
the first panel and the second panel, is defeated (e.g. the interference to
pulling the first and
second panels away from each other is defeated).
[00154] In some embodiments, for example, while the first panel 100 is
connected to
the second panel 100 via the first connection system counterpart configuration
30 of the first
panel 100 and the second connection system counterpart configuration 50 of the
second
panel 100, the covering portion 154 of the second panel 100 conceals at least
a portion of
the first connection system counterpart configuration 30 of the first panel
100. In some
embodiments, for example, while the first panel 100 is connected to the second
panel 100
via the first connection system counterpart configuration 30 of the first
panel 100 and the
second connection system counterpart configuration 50 of the second panel 100,
the
covering portion 154 of the second panel 100 conceals the entirety of the
first connection
system counterpart configuration 30 of the first panel 100. In some
embodiments, for
example, while the first panel 100 is connected to the second panel 100 via
the first
connection system counterpart configuration 30 of the first panel 100 and the
second
connection system counterpart configuration 50 of the second panel 100, the
covering
portion 154 of the second panel 100 conceals the fastener-receiving portion
116 of the first
panel 100, such that a fastener extending through the fastener-receiving
portion 116 for
securing the first panel 100 to a wall 1 is concealed by the covering portion
154. Such
concealment of the of the first connection system counterpart configuration 30
, the fastener-
receiving portion 116, and the fastener extending through the fastener-
receiving portion 116,
provides an aesthetically pleasing appearance to the connected first panel 100
and second
panel 100.
29
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[00155] In some embodiments, for example, while the first connection system

counterpart 110 (e.g. the notch 124) of the first connection system 32, of the
first panel 100,
and the second connection system counterpart 158 (e.g. the rearward projection
158) of the
first connection system 32, of the second panel 100 are disposed in the
relative movement
interference relationship, and the first panel 100 is connected to a wall with
a fastener, the
covering portion 154 of the second panel 100 is covering the fastener.
[00156] In some embodiments, for example, while the first connection system

counterpart 110 (e.g. the notch 124) of the first connection system 32, of the
first panel 100,
the second connection system counterpart 158 (e.g. the rearward projection
158) of the first
connection system 32, of the second panel 100, the first connection system
counterpart 114
(e.g. the projection 114) of the second connection system 34, of the first
panel 100, and the
second connection system counterpart 160, for example, the wall member 161, of
the
second connection system 34, of the second panel 100 are disposed in the
relative
movement interference relationship, and the first panel 100 is connected to a
wall with a
fastener, the covering portion 154 of the second panel 100 is covering the
fastener.
[00157] In some embodiments, for example, while the first panel 100 and the
second
panel 100 are connected together, and while at least one of the first and
second panels is
connected to the wall 1, for example, via a fastener, the visible portion of
the outermost
surface 156 of the covering portion 154 is parallel to the surface of the wall
1 on which the
connected first panel 100 and second panel 100 is mounted.
[00158] In some embodiments, for example, the visible surfaces of the wall
covering
portion 12 and the covering portion 154 of the second panel 100 are co-planar
when the first
and second panels are connected to provide an aesthetically pleasing
appearance.
[00159] In some embodiments, for example, to connect the first and second
panels
via the first connection system counterpart configuration 30 of the first
panel 100 and the
second connection system counterpart configuration 50 of the second panel 100,
the second
connection system counterpart 158 (e.g. the rearward projection 158) of the
first connection
system counterpart 32, of the second panel 100, is to be displaced past the
first connection
system counterpart 114 (e.g. the projection 114) of the second connection
system 34, of the
first panel 100, to effect: 1) snap fit engagement between the first
connection system
counterpart 110 (e.g. the notch 124) of the first connection system 32, of the
first panel 100,
and the second connection system counterpart 158 (e.g. the rearward projection
158) of the
first connection system 32, of the second panel 100, and 2) disposition of the
first connection
system counterpart 114 (e.g. the projection 114) of the second connection
system 34, of the
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

first panel 100, in the recess 164 of the second panel 100, and disposition of
the second
connection system counterpart 160 of the second connection system 34, of the
second
panel 100, in the recess 126 of the first panel 100.
[00160] In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the co-
operability of the
first and second panels is such that the projection 114 of the first panel 100
and the
interacting portion 60 of the second panel 100 are configurable for
disposition in a relative
movement effectible relationship, as depicted in Figure 10.
[00161] In the relative movement effectible relationship, the projection
114 of the first
panel 100 is disposed in the relative movement-effective configuration, the
interacting
portion 60 of the second panel 100 is disposed in the interference-ineffective
configuration,
and the second panel 100 is displaceable towards the first panel 100, such
that the second
connection system counterpart 158 (e.g. the rearward projection 158) of the
first connection
system counterpart 32, of the second panel 100 is displaceable, past the
projection 114 of
the first panel 100 and towards the first connection system counterpart 110
(e.g. the notch
124) of the first connection system 32, of the first panel 100, for aligning
the second
connection system counterpart 158 (e.g. the rearward projection 158) and the
first
connection system counterpart 110 (e.g. the notch 124) of the first connection
system 32, to
effect the snap fit connection between the first connection system counterpart
110 (e.g. the
notch 124) of the first connection system 32, of the first panel 100, and the
second
connection system counterpart 158 (e.g. the rearward projection 158) of the
first connection
system 32, of the second panel 100.
[00162] In some embodiments, for example, to couple the first panel 100 and
the
second panel 100 via the first connection system counterpart configuration 30
of the first
panel 100 and the second connection system counterpart configuration 50 of the
second
panel 100, the first connection system counterpart configuration 30 of the
first panel 100 and
the second connection system counterpart configuration 50 of the second panel
100 are
disposed in alignment. In some embodiments, for example, while the first
connection
system counterpart configuration 30 of the first panel 100 and the second
connection system
counterpart configuration 50 of the second panel 100 are disposed in
alignment, the first
connection system counterpart configuration 30 of the first panel 100 and the
second
connection system counterpart configuration 50 of the second panel 100 are
disposed in
opposing relationship. In some embodiments, for example, to align the first
connection
system counterpart configuration 30 of the first panel 100 and the second
connection system
counterpart configuration 50 of the second panel 100, the first and second
panels are
disposed in abutting engagement with a wall 1 and the first connection system
counterpart
31
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

configuration 30 of the first panel 100 and the second connection system
counterpart
configuration 50 of the second panel 100 are disposed in opposing
relationship. At this
point, the projection 114 of the first panel 100 is disposed in the relative
movement-effective
configuration, and the interacting portion 60 is disposed in the pre-
deformation configuration.
The first panel 100 and the second panel 100 are displaced towards each other,
for
example, the second panel 100 is displaced towards the first panel 100, until
the interacting
portion 60 of the second panel 100 becomes disposed in contact engagement with
the
projection 114 of the first panel 100, for example, the urging surface 115 of
the projection
114. In response to further displacement of the second panel 100 towards the
first panel
100, a force is applied, by the interacting portion 60 of the second panel
100, to the
projection 114 of the first panel. In response to the force, applied by the
interacting portion
60 of the second panel 100 to the projection 114 of the first panel 100, a
reaction force is
applied by the projection 114, for example, the urging surface 115, of the
first panel 100 to
the interacting portion 60 of the second panel 100, the reaction force having
a direction
oriented away from the axis 1001, with effect that the interacting portion 60
of the second
panel 100 is deformed or deflected, such that: 1) the interacting portion 60
of the second
panel 100 is transitioned from the pre-deformation configuration to the
interference-
ineffective configuration, and 2) the projection 114 of the first panel 100
and the interacting
portion 60 of the second panel 100 become disposed in the relative movement
effective
relationship. At this point, the second panel 100 continues to be displaced
towards the first
panel 100, such that the second connection system counterpart 158 (e.g. the
rearward
projection 158) of the first connection system 32, of the second panel 100, is
displaced past
the projection 114 of the first panel 110, until the second connection system
counterpart 158
(e.g. the rearward projection 158) of the first connection system 32, of the
second panel 100
becomes disposed in alignment with the first connection system counterpart 110
(e.g. the
notch 124) of the first connection system 32, of the first panel 100. At this
point, in response
to the material bias of the interacting portion 60, the interacting portion is
transitioned from
the interference-ineffective configuration to the interference-effective
configuration, and the
and the projection 158 becomes disposed in the notch 124, to effect the snap
fit
engagement between the second connection system counterpart 158 (e.g. the
rearward
projection 158) of the first connection system 32, of the second panel 100,
and the first
connection system counterpart 110 (e.g. the notch 124) of the first connection
system 32.
Simultaneously, while the second connection system counterpart 158 (e.g. the
rearward
projection 158) of the first connection system 32, of the second panel 100, is
displaced past
the projection 114 of the first panel 110 and becomes disposed in the first
connection system
counterpart 110 (e.g. the notch 124) of the first connection system 32, of the
first panel 100,
the first connection system counterpart 114 (e.g. the projection 114) of the
second
32
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

connection system 34, of the first panel 100, becomes disposed in the recess
164 of the
second panel 100, and the second connection system counterpart 160 of the
second
connection system 34, of the second panel 100, becomes disposed in the recess
126 of the
first panel 100, thereby establishing connection between the first panel 100
and the second
panel 100. Additional like panels can be, successively, added to this
assembly, in similar
manner, such that the wall panel assembly, established by the connection of
the panels, is
defined by disposition of the panels in adjacent relationship to one another,
for example, in a
vertical series. In this respect, each one of the panels of wall panel
assembly,
independently, is elongated and is defined by a longitudinal axis, such that
the disposition of
the wall panels in adjacent relationship to one another, in a vertical series,
is such that, for
each one of the walls panels, independently, the longitudinal axis is
horizontally oriented.
[00163] In some embodiments, for example, the first panel 100 can be
displaced
towards the second panel 100 to effect the connection between the first and
second panels,
similar to the manner by which the second panel is displaced towards the first
panel 100 to
effect the connection between the first and second panels.
[00164] In some embodiments, for example, the first panel 100 is first
connected to
the wall 1 via a fastener configuration (e.g. one or more mechanical fasteners
8) that is
penetrated through the fastener-receiving portion 116 of the first panel 100,
and then the
second panel 100 is connected to the first panel 100. Then, the second panel
100 is
connected to the wall 1 via a fastener configuration that is penetrated
through the fastener-
receiving portion 116 of the second panel 100.
[00165] In some embodiments, for example, the first and second panels are
connected via the second connection system counterpart configuration 50 of the
first panel
100 and the first connection system counterpart configuration 30 of the second
panel 100,
similar to the manner by which the first and second panels are connected via
the via the first
connection system counterpart configuration 30 of the first panel 100 and the
second
connection system counterpart configuration 50 of the second panel 100.
[00166] In some embodiments, for example, to defeat or release the
connection
between connected first and second panels, the interacting portion 60 of the
second panel
100 is transitioned from the interference-effective configuration to the
interference-ineffective
configuration. At this point, the second panel 100 is displaceable away from
the first panel
100, within a plane that is parallel to the surface of the wall, to effect the
defeating of the
connection between the first and second panels.
33
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[00167] In some embodiments, for example, the panel 100 is configured to
receive
and retain a mounting bracket 502. The panel 100 defines a bracket connector
receiving
cavity or recess 130, as depicted in Figure 2, for receiving a bracket
connector 504 of a
mounting bracket 502, and for hanging of the mounting bracket from the panel
100, as
depicted in Figure 31 and Figure 33. In some embodiments, for example, the
cavity 130 is
defined by a cavity or recess defining surface 132. In some embodiments, for
example, the
cavity defining surface 132 includes the outer surface 72A of the first wall
72 of the rear wall
configuration 70. In some embodiments, for example, the cavity defining
surface 132
includes the retaining surface 134. An example of a mounting bracket 502,
which is
configured for hanging from, and retention to, the panel 100 or a wall panel
assembly 10, is
depicted in Figure 29 to Figure 40. The mounting bracket 502 includes the
connector 504
that is configured to co-operate with the panel 100 for retention of the
bracket 502 to the
panel 100, for example, the first connection counterpart 504 as depicted in
Figure 29 to
Figure 34.
[00168] As depicted in Figure 31, the cavity 130 and the retaining surface
134,
defined by the retaining surface defining configuration 122 of the panel-
defined configuration
20 at the first end 101, are co-operatively configured such that, while the
panel 100 is
secured to a wall 1, insertion of the bracket connector 504 into the cavity
130 is with effect
that the bracket connector 504 is rotated, relative to the panel 100, with
effect that a retained
configuration is established. In the retained configuration: 1) the bracket
502 is vertically
supported by the panel 100, and 2) the retaining surface 134 is opposing
displacement of
the bracket 502, relative to the panel 100, away from the wall 1, for example,
in a direction
that is normal to the wall 1.
[00169] As depicted in Figure 2, in some embodiments, for example, the
cavity 130 is
an L-shaped cavity.
[00170] In some embodiments, for example, a panel 100 is co-operable with
another
panel 100 such that, while the panels are connected together, the cavity 130
of the panel
100 (e.g. an upper panel 100) is disposed for connection to a first connection
counterpart
504 of a mounting assembly 500, and the cavity 130 of the another panel 100
(e.g. a lower
panel 100) is disposed for connection to a second connection counterpart 508
of the
mounting assembly 500.
[00171] In some embodiments, for example, the panel 100 comprises a guide
surface
136. The guide surface 136 is configured to facilitate retention the bracket
to the panel 100,
for example, by facilitating rotation of the bracket connector relative to the
panel 100 while
34
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

the bracket connector is disposed in the cavity 130. In some embodiments, for
example, as
depicted in Figure 2, the panel 100 includes a wall member 141 that extends
rearwardly from
the front facing wall 14, and connecting the front facing wall 14 and the
first wall 72 of the
rear wall configuration 70. The wall member 141 includes a wall portion 143
that has an
arcuate wall surface 145. In some embodiments, for example, the guiding
surface 136 is
defined by the arcuate wall surface 145.
[00172] The cavity 130, the guide surface 136, and the retaining surface
134 are co-
operatively configured such that, while the panel 100 is secured to the
mounting wall 1 and
the bracket connector 504 is being inserted into the cavity 130, the guide
surface 136
engages the bracket connector 504 with effect that the connector 504 is
rotated, relative to
the panel 100, such that movement of the bracket connector 504, within the
cavity 130, is
directed, with effect that the retained configuration is established.
[00173] In some embodiments, for example, the bracket 502 is displaced
towards the
panel 100 to insert the bracket connector into the cavity 130.
[00174] In some embodiments, for example, the minimum rotation of the
connector
504 effected by the guide surface 136 is at least 30 degrees.
[00175] In some embodiments, for example, while the connector 504 is
engaged with
the guide surface 136, in response to further displacement of the mounting
bracket towards
the panel 100, a force is applied by the guide surface 136 to the connector
504, with effect
that the connector 504 is rotated, relative to the panel 100, such that
movement of the
bracket connector, within the cavity 130, is directed, with effect that the
retained
configuration is established.
[00176] In some embodiments, for example, the rotation of the connector
504, relative
to the panel 100, that is effected by the guide surface 136, is such that
movement of the
bracket connector 504, within the cavity 130, is directed further into the
cavity 130.
[00177] In some embodiments, for example, the guide surface 136 has an
arcuate
surface portion. The arcuate surface portion of the guide surface 136 has a
minimum radius
of curvature of at least 1/16 inches.
[00178] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 2, the
cavity 130 is
defined by the cavity-defining surface 132, and the cavity-defining surface
132 includes the
guide surface 136.
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[00179] In some embodiments, for example, the cavity-defining surface 132
includes
an end surface 138 (defined by the outermost surface 72A of the first wall 72
of the rear wall
configuration 70), a rounded surface 140 extending between the retaining
surface 134 and
the end surface 138, and a supporting surface 142.
[00180] In some embodiments, for example, the rounded surface 140 is
disposed
between the retaining surface 134 and the end surface 138, to facilitate
extrusion of the
panel 100 and to improve strength of the cavity 130. In some embodiments, for
example,
the rounded surface 140 has a minimum radius of curvature of at least 1/16
inches.
[00181] In some embodiments, for example, the supporting surface 142 is
configured
to vertically support the bracket while the bracket connector is disposed in
the cavity 130. In
some embodiments, for example, the supporting surface 142 is defined by the
outer surface
of the wall member 141. In some embodiments, for example, while the panel 100
is
connected to the wall and the bracket is retained to the panel 100, the
bracket connector
504 is engaged with the supporting surface 142, for example, seated against
the supporting
surface 142, while the supporting surface 142 is vertically supporting the
bracket.
[00182] In some embodiments, for example, the end surface 138 is angled
relative to
the supporting surface 142, for example, to facilitate extrusion of the panel
100, and to
increase strength of the cavity 130. The end surface 138 defines a
perpendicular axis 138A,
the supporting surface defines a perpendicular axis 142A, and the acute angle
defined
between the perpendicular axis 138A and the perpendicular axis 142A has a
maximum
value of 87 degrees.
[00183] In some embodiments, for example, the cavity 130 includes a
counterpart
receiving portion 144 and a counterpart retaining portion 146. The counterpart-
receiving
portion 144 is configured to receive the bracket connector 504, and to enable
rotation of the
bracket while the bracket connector 504 is disposed in the counterpart-
receiving portion 144.
In some embodiments, for example, the counterpart-receiving portion 144 is
defined by at
least a portion of the end surface 138, the guide surface 136, and the
supporting surface
142. The counterpart-retaining portion 146 is configured to retain the
mounting bracket 502
to the panel 100 while the bracket connector 504 is disposed in the
counterpart-retaining
portion 146. In some embodiments, for example, the counterpart-retaining
portion 146 is
defined by at least a portion of the end surface 138, the rounded surface 140,
and the
retaining surface 134. While the bracket connector 504 is disposed in the
counterpart-
retaining portion 146, the bracket connector 504 is bearing against the
guiding surface 136
and the retaining surface 134, as depicted in Figure 33, such that the
tolerance between the
36
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

bracket connector 504, the end surface 138, the rounded surface 140, and the
retaining
surface 134 is such that displacement of the bracket connector 504, and thus,
the bracket
502, is substantially limited. The substantially limited displacement of the
bracket connector
504, and thus, the bracket 502, results in less wear and tear on the bracket
502, and less
displacement of a load that is supported by the bracket.
[00184] In some embodiments, for example, the counterpart-receiving portion
144 is
wider than the counterpart-retaining portion 146, such that the bracket
connector 504 is
rotatable while disposed in the counterpart-receiving portion 144, and that
displacement of
the bracket connector 504 is limited, such that the bracket connector 504 is
retainable to the
panel 100, while disposed in the counterpart-retaining portion 146.
[00185] In some embodiments, for example, the spacing distance between the
rounded surface 140 and the supporting surface 142 is such that the bracket
connector is
receivable and retainable in the cavity 130. In some embodiments, for example,
the
minimum spacing distance between the rounded surface 140 and the supporting
surface 142
is at least 5/8 inches.
[00186] To retain the bracket to the panel 100, the bracket connector 504
is inserted
into the counterpart-receiving portion 144 of the cavity 130, as depicted in
Figure 32. In
some embodiments, for example, the direction of insertion of the bracket
connector 504 into
the counterpart-receiving portion 144 is parallel to the perpendicular axis of
the outermost
surface 104. The bracket connector 504 is displaced further into the
counterpart-receiving
portion 144 until the bracket connector 504 is engaged with the guide surface
136, as
depicted in Figure 32. In response to a force applied to the bracket connector
504 to further
displace the bracket connector 504 into the counterpart-receiving portion 144,
the guide
surface 136 applies a reaction force to the bracket connector 504, with effect
that the
connector 504 is rotated relative to the panel 100, such that the connector
504 is disposed
further in the cavity 130, for example, in the counterpart retaining portion
146, and disposed
in opposing relationship to the retaining surface 134. At this point, the
bracket 502 is
disposed in the retained configuration, as depicted in Figure 31 and Figure
33. In some
embodiments, for example, at this point, the bracket 502 is hanging from the
panel 100. In
some embodiments, for example, the retaining and hanging of the bracket 502
from the
panel 100 is effected without the use of fasteners, for example, mechanical
fasteners. In
some embodiments, for example, while the bracket 502 is hung from the panel
100, the
bracket is vertically supported by the panel 100, and displacement of the
bracket, relative to
the panel 100, in a direction that is normal to the an outermost surface of
the panel 100, is
opposed (e.g. prevented). In some embodiments, for example, while the bracket
502 is hung
37
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

from the panel 100, displacement of the bracket, relative to the panel 100,
along an axis that
is parallel to a normal axis 1041 of the front-facing wall 104 of the panel
100, is opposed
(e.g. prevented).
[00187] To release the bracket 502 from retention of the panel 100, the
bracket
connector 504 is rotated in a direction opposite the direction for retaining
the bracket 502 to
the panel 100, such that there is an absence of disposition of the bracket
connector 504 in
opposing relationship to the retaining surface 134. At this point, the bracket
connector 504 is
displaced away from the panel 100 until the bracket connector 504 is disposed
outside the
cavity 130.
[00188] In some embodiments, for example, the structure of the cavity 130
is
configured such that the panel 100 is able to support a heavier load that is
mounted to a
bracket 502 that is retained to the panel 100 via the cavity 130. In this
respect, the load
bearing capacity of the cavity 130 is increased.
[00189] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 2, to
increase the
load bearing capacity of the cavity 130, the panel 100 includes a wall member
141 that
extends rearwardly from the front facing wall 14, and connecting the front
facing wall 14 and
the first wall 72 of the rear wall configuration 70. The wall member 141
includes a wall
portion 143 that has an arcuate wall surface 145. The arcuate wall surface 145
has a radius
of curvature having a minimum value of at least 1/16 inches. In some
embodiments, for
example the cavity defining surface 132 includes the arcuate wall surface 145
of the wall
member 141.
[00190] In some embodiments, for example, while the retained configuration
is
established, in response to mounting of a load to the bracket 502, a
displacement-urging
force is applied by the bracket connector 504 to the retaining surface 134,
with effect that
rotation of a rotation-urgable portion of the panel 100, in a direction away
from the rear
facing wall 16, is urged. In some embodiments, for example, the rotation of a
rotation-
urg able portion of the panel 100, in a direction away from the rear facing
wall 16, is opposed
(e.g. prevented), by the wall portion 143. In some embodiments, for example,
the opposition
(e.g. prevention) of the rotation of a rotation-urgable portion of the panel
100, in a direction
away from the rear facing wall 16, is due to the arcuate wall surface 145
having a radius of
curvature having a minimum value of at least 1/16 inches.
[00191] In some embodiments, for example, the rotation-urgable portion
includes the
retaining surface defining configuration 122.
38
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[00192] In some embodiments, for example, the displacement-urging force has
a
maximum value of 300 pounds. In some embodiments, for example, the
displacement-
urging force has a maximum value of 300 pounds per linear foot of the panel
100 (e.g.
measured along the axis 2).
[00193] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 2, to
increase the
load bearing capacity of the cavity 130, the first wall 72 and the second wall
74 of the rear
wall configuration 70 are configured such that the first wall 72 and the
second wall 74 are
disposed in a non-parallel relationship.
[00194] In some embodiments, for example, while the retained configuration
is
established, in response to mounting of a load to the bracket 502, a
displacement-urging
force is applied by the bracket connector 504 to the retaining surface 134,
with effect that
displacement of the retaining surface-defining configuration 122, in the
direction away from
the mounting wall, is urged, In some embodiments, for example, the first wall
72 and the
second wall 74 of the rear wall configuration 70 are co-operatively configured
such that the
displacement of the retaining surface-defining configuration 122, in the
direction away from
the mounting wall 1, is opposed (e.g. prevented). In some embodiments, for
example,
relative to a rear wall configuration wherein a first wall and a second wall
are disposed in a
parallel relationship, the ability of the first wall 72 and the second wall
74, of the rear wall
configuration 70, wherein the first wall 72 and the second wall 74 are
disposed in the non-
parallel relationship, to oppose (e.g. prevent) the displacement of the
retaining surface-
defining configuration 122, in the direction away from the mounting wall, is
increased, due to
the non-parallel relationship between the first wall 72 and the second wall
74.
[00195] In some embodiments, for example, while the retained configuration
is
established, in response to mounting of the load to the bracket 502, the
displacement-urging
force is applied by the bracket connector 504 to the retaining surface 122,
with effect that
bending of the rear wall configuration 70, in a direction away from the
mounting wall 1, is
urged. In some embodiments, for example, the first wall 72 and the second wall
74 of the
rear wall configuration 70 are co-operatively configured such that the bending
of the rear wall
configuration 70, in the direction away from the mounting wall 1, is opposed
(e.g. prevented).
In some embodiments, for example, relative to a rear wall configuration
wherein a first wall
and a second wall are disposed in a parallel relationship, the ability of the
first wall 72 and
the second wall 74, of the rear wall configuration 70, wherein the first wall
72 and the second
wall 74 are disposed in the non-parallel relationship, to oppose (e.g.
prevent) the bending of
the rear wall configuration 70, in the direction away from the mounting wall
1, is increased,
due to the non-parallel relationship between the first wall 72 and the second
wall 74.
39
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[00196] In some embodiments, for example, the front-facing surface 72A
defines a
normal axis 138A, the rear-facing surface 74A defines a normal axis 138B, as
depicted in
Figure 2, and an acute angle defined between the normal axis 138A of the front-
facing
surface 72A and the normal axis 138B of the rear-facing surface 74A has a
minimum value
of at least 3 degrees.
[00197] In some embodiments, for example, the displacement-urging force has
a
maximum value of 300 pounds. In some embodiments, for example, the
displacement-urging
force has a maximum value of 300 pounds per linear foot of the panel 100 (e.g.
measured
along the axis 2).
[00198] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 2, the
disposition of
the first wall 72 and the rear wall 74 of the rear wall configuration 70 in
the non-parallel
relationship is such that the first wall 72 extends from the wall covering
portion 12 towards
the fastener receiving portion 116 in a direction away from the second wall
74. In some
embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 2, the disposition of the
first wall 72 and
the rear wall 74 of the rear wall configuration 70 in the non-parallel
relationship is such that
the first wall 72 extends from the wall covering portion 12 in a direction
towards the front side
of the panel 100.
[00199] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 2, to
increase the
load bearing capacity of the cavity 130, the panel 100 includes a wall member
147,
connecting the retaining surface-defining wall 123 of the retaining surface
defining
configuration 122 and the first wall 72 of the rear wall configuration 70. The
wall 147
member includes a wall portion 148 including an arcuate wall surface 149. In
some
embodiments, for example, the cavity defining surface 132 includes the arcuate
wall surface
149 of the wall portion 148. In some embodiments, for example, the arcuate
wall surface
149 defines the rounded surface 140.
[00200] In some embodiments, for example, while the retained configuration
is
established, in response to mounting of a load to the bracket 502, a
displacement-urging
force is applied by the bracket connector 504 to the retaining surface 134,
with effect that
displacement of the retaining surface-defining configuration 122, in the
direction away from
the mounting wall 1, is urged. In some embodiments, for example, the
displacement of the
retaining surface-defining configuration 122, away from the mounting wall 1,
is opposed (e.g.
prevented), by the wall portion 148. In some embodiments, for example,
relative to a wall
member that extends between the retaining surface defining wall 123 and the
first wall 72 of
the rear wall configuration that is absent an arcuate wall surface (e.g. a
planar wall member),
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

the ability of the wall portion 148, wherein the wall portion 148 includes the
arcuate wall
surface 149, to oppose (e.g. prevent) the displacement of the retaining
surface-defining
configuration 122, in the direction away from the mounting wall 1, is
increased, due to the
arcuate wall surface 149.
[00201] In some embodiments, for example, the displacement-urging force has
a
maximum value of 300 pounds. In some embodiments, for example, the
displacement-
urging force has a maximum value of 300 pounds per linear foot of the panel
100 (e.g.
measured along the axis 2).
[00202] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 2, the
retaining
surface-defining configuration 122 is connected to the fastener-receiving
portion 116. In
some embodiments, for example, while the retained configuration is
established, in response
to mounting of the load to the bracket 502, the displacement-urging force is
applied by the
bracket connector 504 to the retaining surface 134, with effect that rotation
of the retaining
surface-defining configuration 122, relative to the fastener-receiving portion
116, in a
direction away from the wall 1, is urged. In some embodiments, for example,
the rotation of
the retaining surface-defining configuration 122, relative to the fastener-
receiving portion
116, in the direction away from the wall 1, is opposed (e.g. prevented) by the
wall portion
148. In some embodiments, for example, relative to a wall member that extends
between the
retaining surface defining wall 123 and the first wall 72 of the rear wall
configuration that is
absent an arcuate wall surface (e.g. a planar wall member), the ability of the
wall portion
148, wherein the wall portion 148 includes the arcuate wall surface 149, to
oppose (e.g.
prevent) the rotation of the retaining surface-defining configuration 122,
relative to the
fastener-receiving portion 116, in the direction away from the mounting wall
1, is increased,
due to the arcuate wall surface 149.
[00203] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 2, the wall
member
147 is an arcuate wall member, the wall portion 148 is defined by a portion of
the arcuate
wall member, and the arcuate wall surface 147 of the wall portion 148 is
defined by an
arcuate wall surface of the arcuate wall member.
[00204] In some embodiments, for example, the wall member 147 defines a
terminal
end of the cavity 130.
[00205] In some embodiments, for example, with respect to existing slat
wall panels,
said slat wall panels are secured to a mounting wall 1 via fasteners that is
received through
a fastener receiving portion, and also via fasteners that are received through
a cavity for
41
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

receiving a bracket connector to retain a bracket to the panel. The additional
fasteners
through the cavity are needed to secure the panel to the wall while a bracket
is retained to
the panel and a load is mounted to the bracket. In some embodiments, for
example, the
industry standard width of an opening of the cavity of existing slat wall
panels is 0.390
inches. The industry standard width is based on the width of the head of
common fasteners
(e.g. No. 8 or No. 10 head fasteners) used to secure existing slat wall panels
to the wall. The
width of the opening of the cavity of existing slat wall panels has to be
sufficiently wide to
provide clearance for the head of the fastener. In some embodiments, for
example, due to
the structural features of the cavity 130 that increase the load bearing
capacity of the cavity
130, the width of the opening of the cavity 130 can be reduced from the
industry standard of
0.390 inches to, for example, 0.300 inches. By reducing the width of the
opening of the
cavity 130, the minimum spacing distance from the fastener receiving portion
116 and the
cavity 130, for example, between the fastener locator 120 and the wall member
141, is
reduced, which is desirable, as the minimum spacing distance from the
fastener, while the
fastener is received in the fastener receiving portion 116, and the bracket
502, is reduced,
while the retained configuration is established. By reducing the distance
between the
fastener and the bracket 502, the panel 100 is less susceptible to
deformation, for example,
bending, while the bracket 502 is loaded, as the fastener opposes more of the
load that is
supported by the bracket 502. In some embodiments, for example, the minimum
spacing
distance between the fastener locator 120 and the wall member 141 is 0.750
inches.
[00206] In some embodiments, for example, while the first and second panels
100 are
connected, it is desirable for the connection to be defeatable, such that, for
example, the
panels 100 may be transported to a different location and the panel assembly
10 may be
installed at the different location, or that another panel can be connected to
the first panel.
In some embodiments, for example, it is also desirable for the connection
between the first
and second panels to be defeatable in a manner other than sliding one of the
first panel and
the second panel, relative to the other of the first panel and the second
panel, in a direction
along the length of the first and second panels (e.g. in a direction along the
axis 2), as such
sliding of one of the first panel and the second panel, relative to the other
of the first panel
and the second panel, to defeat the connection between the first and second
panel, may
require space that is not available (e.g. the length of the space needed is
approximately the
sum of the length of the first panel and the length of second panel), which
may make the
separation of the panels cumbersome.
[00207] In some embodiments, for example, while the first and second panels
are
connected via the first connection system counterpart configuration 30 of the
first panel 100
42
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

and the second connection system counterpart configuration 50 of the second
panel 100, to
defeat the connection between connected panels, one of the first panel 100 and
the second
panel 100 is rotatable relative to the other of the first panel 100 and the
second panel 100 to
defeat the connection between the first connect system counterpart
configuration 30 of the
first panel 100 and the second connection system counterpart configuration 50
of the second
panel 100. In some embodiments, for example, while the first panel 100 is
secured to the
wall 1, and the first and second panels are connected, the second panel 100 is
rotatable,
relative to the first panel 100, in a direction away from the wall, to defeat
the connection
between the first and second panels.
[00208] In some embodiments, for example, the first and second panels are
co-
operatively configured such that, while the connection of the first and second
panels is
defeated, via the rotation of one of the first panel 100 and the second panel
100, relative to
the other one of the first panel 100 and the second panel 100, the first panel
100 and the
second panel 100 are separable.
[00209] Figure 13 depicts a panel 100A that is an alternate embodiment of
the panel
100 depicted in Figure 1. Panel 100A substantially corresponds to the panel
100, except the
width of the panel 100A, measured along the central longitudinal axis 1001A of
the panel
100A, is different from the width of the panel 100, measured along the central
longitudinal
axis 1001 of the panel 100. In some embodiments, for example, the number of
ribs 108 of
the panel increases as the width of the panel increases. In some embodiments,
for
example, the number of ribs 108 of the panel decreases as the width of the
panel decreases.
[00210] In some embodiments, for example, the panel 100 includes a
plurality of
cavities 130. Each one of the plurality of cavities 130, independently,
includes the features
described herein. Each one of the plurality of cavities 130, independently, is
configured for
retaining a bracket 502 to the panel 100. In some embodiments, for example,
the panel 100
includes two cavities 130. In some embodiments, for example, the panel 100
includes three
cavities 130. In some embodiments, for example, the panel 100 includes four
cavities 130. In
some embodiments, for example, the panel 100 includes more than four cavities
130.
[00211] In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, for each one of
the
plurality of cavities 130, independently, the panel 100 includes: 1) a wall
member 141
includes a wall portion 143 that has an arcuate wall surface 145, 2) a rear
wall configuration
70 wherein the first wall 72 and the second wall 74 are disposed in a non-
parallel
relationship, and 3) a wall member 147, connecting the retaining surface-
defining wall 123 of
the retaining surface defining configuration 122 and the first wall 72 of the
rear wall
43
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

configuration 70, to improve the load bearing capacity of the cavity 130. In
some
embodiments, for example, for each one of the plurality of cavities 130,
independently, the
panel 100 includes a guiding surface 136 for guiding the rotation of the
bracket connector
504 into the cavity 130 to effect the retained configuration.
[00212] Figure 14 depicts a panel 100B, and Figure 15 depict a panel 100C.
The
panel 100B and the panel 100C are alternate embodiments of the panel 100
depicted in
Figure 1. Panel 100B and panel 100C substantially correspond to the panel 100,
except the
panel 100B the panel 100C include more than one cavity 130. As depicted, in
some
embodiments, for example, the panel 100B includes two cavities 130. As
depicted, in some
embodiments, for example, the panel 100C includes four cavities 130.
[00213] Figure 16 depicts a wall panel assembly 10A comprising three panels
100C.
[00214] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 14, for a
two-cavity
panel having a width of approximately 6 inches, wherein the width of a panel
is measured
along the axis 1001, the minimum spacing distance 24X between the opening of a
first cavity
and the opening of a second cavity is approximately 2.5 inches. In some
embodiments, for
example, as depicted in Figure 14, for a two-cavity panel having a width of
approximately 6
inches, the minimum spacing distance 24Y between the opening of a cavity and
the terminal
end of the interacting portion 60 is approximately 2.5 inches.
[00215] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 14, for a
two-cavity
panel having a width of approximately 8 inches, the minimum spacing distance
24X between
the opening of a first cavity and the opening of a second cavity is
approximately 3.5 inches.
In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 14, for a two-cavity
panel having a
width of approximately 8 inches, the minimum spacing distance 24Y between the
opening of
a cavity and the terminal end of the interacting portion 60 is approximately
3.5 inches.
[00216] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 14, for a
two-cavity
panel having a width of approximately 12 inches, the minimum spacing distance
24X
between the opening of a first cavity and the opening of a second cavity is
approximately 5.5
inches. In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 14, for a two-
cavity panel
having a width of approximately 12 inches, the minimum spacing distance 24Y
between the
opening of a cavity and the terminal end of the interacting portion 60 is
approximately 5.5
inches.
[00217] In some embodiments, for example, for a three-cavity panel having a
width of
approximately 12 inches, the minimum spacing distance between the opening of a
first cavity
44
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

and the opening of a second cavity is approximately 3.5 inches. In some
embodiments, for
example, for a three-cavity panel having a width of approximately 12 inches,
the minimum
spacing distance between the opening of a cavity and the terminal end of the
interacting
portion 60 is approximately 3.5 inches.
[00218] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 15, for a
four-cavity
panel having a width of approximately 12 inches, the minimum spacing distance
25X
between the opening of a first cavity and the opening of a second cavity is
approximately 2.5
inches. In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 15, for a four-
cavity panel
having a width of approximately 12 inches, the minimum spacing distance 25Y
between the
opening of a cavity and the terminal end of the interacting portion 60 is
approximately 2.5
inches.
[00219] In some embodiments, for example, the material of the panel 100
includes
plastic, for example, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene, or recycled
plastic. In some
embodiments, for example, the material of the panel 100 includes a composite,
such as, for
example, wood fibre composite, recycled material, or cellular foam. In some
embodiments,
for example, the material of the panel 100 includes metal, such as aluminum.
In some
embodiments, for example, the material of the panel 100 includes fibreglass.
In some
embodiments, for example, the material of the panel 100 includes wood. Figure
17 depicts a
wall panel assembly 10B comprising two panels 100D, the panel 100D being an
alternate
embodiment of the panel 100. The panel 100 and the panel 100D are
substantially similar,
except the panel 100D is solid wood. As depicted, in some embodiments, for
example,
where the panel 100D is solid wood, there is an absence of ribs 108 extending
between the
first side 103 and the second side 1031. As depicted, in some embodiments, for
example,
where the panel 100D is solid wood, there is an absence of hollow portions in
the panel
100D.
[00220] In some embodiments, for example, the panel 100 is manufactured by
extrusion. In such embodiments, for example, the panel 100 is an extruded
lineal. In some
embodiments, for example, the panel 100 is manufactured by molding. In some
embodiments, for example, the panel 100 is manufactured by pultrusion. In some

embodiments, for example, the panel 100 is manufactured by cutting a piece of
wood. In
some embodiments, for example, the panel 100 is manufactured by casting or
forging.
[00221] In some embodiments, for example, the first panel 100 is connected
to the
second panel 100 that is the same as the first panel 100. For example, the
first panel 100
and the second panel are both the panel 100 as depicted in Figure 1. In some
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

embodiments, for example, the first panel 100 is connected to the second panel
that is
different from the first panel 100. For example, the first panel 100 is the
panel 100 depicted
in Figure 1, and the second panel is any one of the other panels described
herein, for
example, any one of the panel 100A to the panel 100F. In some embodiments, for
example,
a wall panel assembly 10 is assembled by connecting two of the same panels
together, or
connecting two different panels together. In some embodiments, for example, a
first panel is
connectible to a second panel, wherein the connection is effected by the first
connection
system counterpart configuration 30 of the first panel, and the second
connection system
counterpart configuration 50 of the second panel.
[00222] In some embodiments, for example, while the load bearing capacity
of the
cavity 130 is increased via structural changes to the cavity 130, it may be
desirable to
penetrate portions of the panel 100, in addition to the fastener receiving
portion 116, to
improve the securing of the panel 100 to the wall 1.
[00223] In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, Figure 18
depicts a panel
100E that is an alternate embodiment of the panel 100. Panel 100E
substantially
corresponds to the panel 100, except the panel 100E includes more than one
cavity 130,
and further includes one or more fastener-receiving portions 1000. As
depicted, the panel
100E includes three fastener-receiving portions 1000. In some embodiments, for
example,
the panel 100E is configured to be fastened to a wall 1 via a fastener that is
received through
a cavity 130 of the panel 100E. In some embodiments, for example, at least one
of the
cavities 130 of the panel 100E is configured to receive a fastener and engage
the fastener
for fastening the panel 100E to a wall 1.
[00224] In some embodiments, for example, the fastener-receiving portion
1000 of the
panel 100E is configured to receive one or more mechanical fasteners, for
example, screws,
bolts, pins, and the like, to connect the panel 100E to a wall 1. In some
embodiments, for
example, the fastener-receiving portion 1000 is configured to co-operate with
one or more
mechanical fasteners, wherein at least a portion of the mechanical fastener is
disposed in
the cavity 130, to connect the panel 100E to a wall 1.
[00225] The fastener-receiving portion 1000 includes a fastener-engaging
surface
1002. In some embodiments, for example, the fastener-engaging surface 1002 is
defined by
the outer surface 72A of the first wall 72 of the rear wall configuration 70.
The fastener-
engaging surface 1002 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
panel 100E while the fastener-engaging surface 1002 is engaged to the head of
the
46
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

fastener. In some embodiments, for example, the cavity-defining surface 132
includes the
fastener-engaging surface 1002.
[00226] In some embodiments, for example, the fastener-engaging surface
1002 is
aligned with an opening 1301 of the cavity 130, such that the fastener is
receivable through
the opening 1301, and extending through the cavity 130, to engage the fastener-
engaging
surface 1002. In some embodiments, for example, the opening 1301 is
sufficiently wide
such that the head of the fastener is receivable in the opening 1301 and
displaceable
through the opening 1301.
[00227] In some embodiments, for example, the fastener-receiving portion
1000
includes a fastener locator 1004, similar to the fastener locator 120, for
locating placement of
a fastener in a fastener effective position, and for guiding the penetration
of the panel 100 by
the fastener. In some embodiments, for example, the fastener locator 1004 is
defined by the
first wall 72 of the rear wall configuration 70. In some embodiments, for
example, the
fastener locator 1004 includes a groove that is defined within the outer
surface 72A of the
first wall 72. In some embodiments, for example, the fastener locator 1004 is
configured to
receive the tip of a fastener. In some embodiments, for example, the fastener
locator 1004
is sufficiently deep and wide to receive the tip of the fastener. In some
embodiments, for
example, the fastener locator 1004 and the tip of the fastener are co-
operatively configured
such that, while the tip of the fastener is received in the fastener locator
1004, the position of
the fastener-receiving portion 1000 is identified for a user to fasten the
panel 100E to a wall
1. In some embodiments, for example, the fastener locator 1004 and the tip of
the fastener
are co-operatively configured such that, while the tip of the fastener is
received in the
fastener locator 1004, the fastener is oriented such that the fastener is able
to fasten the
panel 100E to a wall 1. In some embodiments, for example, the fastener locator
1004 is
defined on the fastener-engaging surface 1002.
[00228] To connect the panel 100E to a wall 1, the panel 100E is disposed
against the
wall 1, and the fastener is displaced relative to the panel 100E such that the
fastener is
received in the cavity 130, for example, the counterpart-receiving portion
144. At this point,
the fastener continues to be displaced in the cavity 130 until the tip of the
fastener is
engaged with the fastener locator 1004, such that the fastener becomes
oriented for
fastening the panel 100E via the fastener locator 1004. At this point, the
fastener is
displaced through the fastener-engaging surface 1002 of the panel 100E and
further
displaced through the wall-opposing surface 106 until the fastener engages the
wall 1, such
that the panel 100E is coupled to the wall 1 via the fastener.
47
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[00229] In some embodiments, for example, at least one of the cavities 130
of the
panel 100E is configured to receive a fastener to fasten the panel 100E to the
wall. In some
embodiments, for example, for at least one of the cavities 130 of the panel
100E that is
configured to receive a fastener to fasten the panel 100E to the wall, the
cavity-defining
surface 132 includes the fastener-engaging surface 1002. In some embodiments,
for
example, as depicted in Figure 18, a fastener-engaging surface 1002 is absent
from the
cavity-defining surface 132 of a cavity 130A disposed at the first end 101 of
the panel 100E,
while the cavity-defining surface 132 of each other cavity 130 of the panel
100E includes a
fastener-engaging surface 1002. In such embodiments, for example, the width of
the
opening of the cavity 130A is less than the width of the opening of the cavity
130, as the
width of the opening of the cavity 130A does not have to be sufficient to
provide clearance
for receiving the head of the fastener.
[00230] In some embodiments, for example, a fastener, in addition to the
fastener that
connects the panel 100E to the wall 1 via the fastener-receiving portion 116,
can connect the
panel 100E to the wall 1 via the fastener-receiving portion 1000. The
additional fasteners
strengthens the connection of the panel 100E to the wall 1. Such additional
connection
strength is desirable if the load to be supported by a mounting bracket that
is connected to
the panel 100E is particularly heavy.
[00231] In some embodiments, for example, while the fastener is engaged
with the
fastener-engaging surface 1002 of the fastener-receiving portion 1000, the
exposed portion
of the head of the fastener is configured to guide the displacement of the
bracket connector
504, for example, rotation of the bracket connector 504, for disposition of
the bracket
connector 504 further into the cavity 130. In some embodiments, for example,
the exposed
portion of the head of the fastener, which is configured to guide the
displacement of the
bracket connector 504 further into the cavity, includes a rounded portion.
[00232] In some embodiments, for example, while the fastener is engaged
with the
fastener-engaging surface 1002 of the fastener-receiving portion 1000, the
bracket
connector 504 can be received by the residual portion of the cavity 130 that
is unobstructed
by the head of the fastener that is securing the panel 100E to the wall 1, for
effecting the
retained configuration.
[00233] Figure 19 depicts a panel 100F that is an alternate embodiment of
the panel
100E. The panel 100F substantially corresponds to the panel 100E, except the
panel 100F
is solid wood.
48
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[00234] In some embodiments, for example, a cavity 130 of a panel as
described
herein, for example, panel 100 to panel 100F, is configured to receive a
fastener to fasten
the panel to the wall 1. In some embodiments, for example, the cavity-defining
surface 132
of said cavity 130 defines a fastener-engaging surface 1002 of a fastener-
receiving portion
to engage with a head of a fastener for connecting the panel to a wall 1.
[00235] Figure 20 depicts an example embodiment for a trim 2200. In some
embodiments, for example, the trim 2200 is configured to connect to a panel
described
herein, for example, the panel 100 to 100F, to conceal the first connection
system
counterpart configuration 30 of the panel 100, and provide a clean and
aesthetically pleasing
finish to a connected trim 2200 and panel. The trim 2200 and panel 100 are
connected in a
manner that is substantially similar to the manner by which adjacent panels
100 are
connected, as described herein. In some embodiments, for example, the trim
2200 is
connectible to the panel 100, that is the uppermost panel 100 of the wall
panel assembly, for
concealing the fastener that is connecting the uppermost panel 100 to the wall
1. In some
embodiments, for example, the trim 2200 is an upper end trim 2200, such that,
while the
connected trim 2200 and panel is secured to the mounting wall 1, the upper end
trim 2200 is
disposed at an upper end of the connected trim and panel.
[00236] In some embodiments, for example, the trim 2200 is connectible to
the panel
100, such that connected trim and panel are established, for example, to
define a wall panel
assembly 10.
[00237] The trim 2200 defines a central longitudinal axis 22001. The trim
2200
includes a trim defined configuration 2240 that substantially corresponds to
the panel
defined configuration 40 at the second end 102 of the panel 100. In
particular, the trim
defined configuration 2240 includes a trim-defined connection system
counterpart
configuration 2250 that substantially corresponds to the second connection
system
counterpart configuration 50 of the panel 100. The trim 2200 and the panel 100
are
connectible via the trim-defined connection system counterpart configuration
2250 and the
first connection system counterpart configuration 30 of the panel 100. The
trim 2200 is
connectible to a panel 100 in a manner substantially similar to the manner by
which the
connection between adjacent panels, in the wall panel assembly, is
established, as
described herein.
[00238] As depicted, the trim defined configuration 2240 includes the trim-
defined
connection system counterpart configuration 2250, which includes an
interacting portion
2202, which substantially corresponds to the interacting portion 60 of the
panel 100. The
49
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

interacting portion 2202 includes a covering portion 2205, for effectuating
the concealment of
the fastener in like manner as the effectuating of the concealment of the
fastener, by co-
operation between adjacent panels in the wall panel assembly, by the covering
portion 154
of the interacting portion 60 of the panel 100. The covering portion 2205
includes an
outermost surface 2204 configured for being visible while the trim 2200 is
connected to the
panel 100, the outermost surface 2204 including a continuous surface that
extends along the
length of the covering portion 2205. The interacting portion 2202 further
includes a trim
defined second connection system counterpart 2206 (e.g. a rearward projection
2206) of the
first connection system 32, substantially corresponding to the second
connection system
counterpart 158 of the first connection system 32, of the panel 100, that is
configured to co-
operate with the first connection system counterpart 110 (e.g. the notch 124)
of the first
connection system 32 of the panel 100 for snap fit engagement, to oppose (e.g.
prevent)
pulling of the trim 2200 away from the panel 100.
[00239] The trim-defined connection system counterpart configuration 2250
further
includes a trim defined second connection system counterpart 2208 of the
second
connection system 34, including a wall member 2209, disposed rearwardly of the
interacting
portion 2202, substantially corresponding to the second connection system
counterpart 160
of the second connection system 34, of the panel 100, and is configured to co-
operate with
the first connection system counterpart 114 (e.g. the projection 114) of the
second
connection system 34 to oppose (e.g. prevent) lifting of the trim 2200 away
from the panel
100.
[00240] The trim defined configuration 2240 further includes a trim wall
2201, that
defines an intermediate wall 22012 that extends between the interacting
portion 2202 and
the trim defined second connection system counterpart 2208.
[00241] In some embodiments, for example, the interacting portion 2202 is
pivotable
about a joint 2214, for transitioning between the pre-deformation
configuration, the
interference effective configuration, and the interference ineffective
configuration. The
interacting portion 2202 is connected to the trim wall 2201 at the joint 2214,
as depicted in
Figure 20.
[00242] In some embodiments, for example, the trim wall 2201 includes an
outermost
end surface 22011 configured for being visible while the trim 2200 is
connected to the panel
100, the outermost end surface 22011 including a continuous surface that
extends along the
length of the trim 2200. In some embodiments, for example, the outermost end
surface
22011 has a minimum surface area of at least 0.375 inches squared. In some
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

embodiments, for example, the visible surface of the outermost end surface
22011 has a
minimum width or height of at least 1/8 inches. In some embodiments, for
example, the
visible surface of the outermost end surface 22011 has a minimum length of at
least 3
inches.
[00243] The trim defined configuration further defines a recess 2210,
substantially
corresponding to the recess 164, between an inner surface of the interacting
portion 2202,
an inner surface of the trim defined second connection system counterpart
2208, and the
intermediate wall 22012, for receiving the projection 114 of the panel.
[00244] The trim 2200 and the panel 100 are co-operatively configured such
that,
while the connection between the trim 2200 and the panel 100 is established,
the covering
portion 2205 is concealing the fastener that is connecting the panel 100 to
the wall 1.
[00245] In some embodiments, for example, while the trim 2200 is connected
to the
panel 100, the covering portion 2205 of the trim conceals at least a portion
of the first
connection system counterpart configuration 30 of the panel 100. In some
embodiments, for
example, while the trim 2200 is connected to the panel 100, the covering
portion 2205 of the
trim 2200 conceals the entirety of the first connection system counterpart
configuration 30 of
the panel 100. In some embodiments, for example, while the trim 2200 is
connected to the
panel 100, the covering portion 2205 of the trim 2200 conceals the fastener-
receiving portion
116 of the panel 100, such that a fastener extending through the fastener-
receiving portion
116 is concealed by the covering portion 2205. Such concealment of the of the
first
connection system counterpart configuration 30, for example, the fastener-
receiving portion
116, and a fastener extending through the fastener-receiving portion 116,
provides an
aesthetically pleasing appearance to the connected trim 2200 and the panel
100.
[00246] In some embodiments, for example, to defeat or release the
connection
between connected trim 2200 and panel 100, the interacting portion 2202 is
transitioned
from the interference effective configuration to the interference ineffective
configuration. At
this point, the trim 2200 is displaceable away from the panel 100 in a
direction perpendicular
to the surface 22011, for example, along an axis that is: (i) parallel to the
wall surface 12 or
the front facing surface 104, and (ii) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis
2 (e.g. the axis of
extrusion) of the panel 100 or the trim 2200 (e.g. the trim 2200 can be pulled
away from the
panel 100).
51
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[00247] In some embodiments, for example, to defeat or release the
connection
between connected trim 2200 and panel 100, one of the trim 2200 and the panel
100 is
rotated relative to the other of the trim 2200 and the panel 100.
[00248] In some embodiments, for example, the material of the trim 2200
includes
plastic, for example, PVC, polypropylene, or recycled plastic. In some
embodiments, for
example, the material of the trim 2200 includes a composite, such as, for
example, wood
fibre composite, recycled material, or cellular foam. In some embodiments, for
example, the
material of the trim 2200 includes metal, such as aluminum. In some
embodiments, for
example, the material of the trim 2200 includes fibreglass. In some
embodiments, for
example, the material of the trim 2200 includes wood. In some embodiments, for
example,
the trim 2200 is solid wood.
[00249] In some embodiments, for example, the trim 2200 is manufactured by
extrusion. In some embodiments, for example, the trim 2200 is manufactured by
molding. In
some embodiments, for example, the trim 2200 is manufactured by pultrusion. In
some
embodiments, for example, the trim 2200 is manufactured by cutting a piece of
wood. In
some embodiments, for example, the trim 2200 is manufactured by casting or
forging.
[00250] Figure 21 depicts an example embodiment for a trim 2300. In some
embodiments, for example, the trim 2300 is configured to connect to a panel
described
herein, for example, the panel 100 to 100F, to conceal the trim defined
configuration 2340 of
the trim 2300, and provide a clean and aesthetically pleasing finish to a
connected trim 2300
and panel. In some embodiments, for example, the trim 2300 is connectible to
the panel 100
that is the lowermost panel 100 of the wall panel assembly, for concealing the
fastener that
is connecting the trim 2300 to the wall 1. In some embodiments, for example,
the trim 2300
is a bottom end trim 2300 or a lower end trim 2300, such that, while the
connected trim 2300
and panel is secured to the mounting wall 1, the bottom end trim 2300 is
disposed at a
bottom end or lower end of the connected trim and panel.
[00251] In some embodiments, for example, the trim 2300 is connectible to
the panel
100, such that connected trim and panel are established, for example, to
define a wall panel
assembly 10. The trim 2300 and panel 100 are connected in a manner that is
substantially
similar to the manner by which adjacent panels 100 are connected, as described
herein. In
some embodiments, for example, the trim 2300 is connected to a mounting wall
1, for
example, via a fastener, in a manner similar to the manner by which a panel
100 is
connected to the mounting wall 1, as described herein, and then a panel 100 is
connected to
the trim 2300 that is connected to the wall 1, in a manner similar to the
manner by which a
52
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

panel 100 is connected to another panel 100, as described herein, to define
the wall panel
assembly 10. In some embodiments, for example, the trim 2300 is the first
component of the
wall panel assembly 10 that is connected to the mounting wall 1. In this
respect, in some
embodiments, for example, the trim 2300 is a starter trim or starter strip.
[00252] In some embodiments, for example, the trim 2300 includes a base
2301 that
defines a rear-facing and wall-opposing surface 2306 that is configured for
opposing the wall
and being disposed in abutting engagement with the wall 1 while the trim 2300
is secured to
the wall 1.
[00253] The trim 2300 includes a trim defined configuration 2340 that
substantially
corresponds to the panel defined configuration 20 at the first end 101 of the
panel 100. In
particular, the trim defined configuration 2340 includes a trim-defined
connection system
counterpart configuration 2302 that substantially corresponds to the first
connection system
counterpart configuration 30 of the panel 100. The trim 2300 and the panel 100
are
connectible via the trim-defined connection system counterpart configuration
2302 and the
second connection system counterpart configuration 50 of the panel 100. The
trim 2300 is
connectible to a panel 100 in a manner substantially similar to the manner by
which the
connection between adjacent panels, in the wall panel assembly, is
established, as
described herein.
[00254] As depicted, the trim-defined connection system counterpart
configuration
2302 includes a trim defined first connection system counterpart 2324 (e.g. a
notch 2324) of
the first connection system 32, substantially corresponding to the first
connection system
counterpart 110 (e.g. the notch 124) of the first connection system
counterpart 32, of the
panel 100, and configured to co-operate with the second connection system
counterpart 158
(e.g. the projection 158) of the first connection system 32 of the panel 100
for snap fit
engagement, and further configured to co-operate with the second connection
system
counterpart 158 (e.g. the projection 158) of the first connection system 32,
of the panel 100,
to oppose, for example, prevent, displacement of the panel 100, away from the
trim 2300,
along an axis that is: (i) parallel to the wall surface 12 or the front facing
surface 104, and (ii)
perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 2 (e.g. the axis of extrusion) of the
panel or trim (e.g.
oppose, for example, prevent, pulling of the panel 100 away from the trim
2300).
[00255] The trim-defined connection system counterpart configuration 2302
further
includes a trim defined first connection system counterpart 2314 (e.g. a
projection 2314)
substantially corresponding to the first connection system counterpart 114
(e.g. the
projection 114) of the second connection system 34, of the panel 100. The trim
defined first
53
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

connection system counterpart 2314 includes an urging surface 2315, which
substantially
corresponds to the urging surface 115 of the projection 114 of the panel 100.
The trim
defined first connection system counterpart 2314 is configured to be received
in the recess
164 of the panel 100, and further configured to co-operate with the second
connection
system counterpart 160 of the second connection system 34, of the panel 100,
to oppose,
for example, prevent, displacement of the panel 100, away from the trim 2300,
in a direction
that is parallel to a normal axis 1041 of the front-facing wall 104 of the
panel (e.g. oppose,
for example, prevent, lifting of the panel 100 away from the trim 2300).
[00256] The trim defined configuration 2340 further includes a fastener
receiving
portion 2316, including a fastener locator 2320 and a fastener-engaging
surface 2318,
substantially corresponding to the fastener receiving portion 116, which
includes the fastener
locator 120 and a fastener-engaging surface 118, for emplacing a fastener in
the fastener
effective position to secure the trim 2300 to the wall 1. To connect the trim
2300 to a wall 1,
the trim 2300, for example, the rear facing surface 2306 of the base 2301, is
disposed in
abutting engagement against the wall 1, the fastener is emplaced in the
fastener effective
position via the fastener locator 2320, and penetrated through the fastener-
engaging surface
2318 of the trim 2300, and further penetrated through the wall-opposing
surface 2306 until
the fastener engages the wall, such that the trim 2300 is coupled to the wall
via the fastener
1.
[00257] The trim defined configuration 2340 further defines a recess 2326,
substantially corresponding to the recess 126, and defined between projection
2314 and the
fastener receiving portion 2316, that is configured to receive second
connection system
counterpart 160 of the second connection system 34, of the panel 100.
[00258] The trim 2300 and the panel 100 are co-operatively configured such
that,
while the connection between the trim 2300 and the panel 100 is established,
the covering
portion 154 is concealing the fastener that is connecting the trim 2300 to the
wall 1.
[00259] In some embodiments, for example, the trim 2300 includes an
outermost end
surface 2304 configured for being visible while the trim 2300 is connected to
the panel 100.
As depicted in Figure 21, in some embodiments, for example, the outermost end
surface
2304 is perpendicular relative to the wall-opposing surface 2306. In some
embodiments, for
example, the outermost end surface 2304 includes a continuous surface that
extends along
the length of the trim 2300. In some embodiments, for example, the outermost
end surface
2304 has a minimum surface area of at least 0.375 inches squared. In some
embodiments,
for example, the visible surface of the outermost end surface 2304 has a
minimum width or
54
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

height of at least 1/8 inches. In some embodiments, for example, the visible
surface of the
outermost end surface 2304 has a minimum length of at least 3 inches.
[00260] In some embodiments, for example, the trim defined configuration
2340
includes a wall member 2322, substantially correspond to an outer wall member
of the
retaining surface defining configuration 122. The wall member 2322 defines an
outer surface
2323. In some embodiments, for example, the wall member 2322 is configured to
support
the covering portion 154 of the interacting portion 60 of the second
connection system
counterpart configuration 50 of the panel 100 while the trim 2300 is connected
to the panel
100.
[00261] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 21, the
trim defined
first connection system counterpart 2324 (e.g. a notch 2324) of the first
connection system
32 is defined between the wall member 2322 and the outermost end surface 2304.
[00262] In some embodiments, for example, the outer surface 2323 and the
end
surface 2304 are disposed in a perpendicular relationship.
[00263] In some embodiments, for example, the trim 2300 includes a front
facing
surface 2303. The front facing surface 2303 is configured for being visible
while the trim
2300 is secured to the wall 1. In some embodiments, for example, the front
facing surface
2303 includes: (i) the front facing surface portion of the trim defined first
connection system
counterpart 2314 (e.g. the projection 2314), (ii) the front facing surface
portion of the
fastener receiving portion 2316, for example, the fastener locator 2320 and
the fastener-
engaging surface 2318, and (iii) the outer surface 2323. In some embodiments,
for example,
the front facing surface 2303 defines the fastener receiving portion 2316.
[00264] In some embodiments, for example, while the trim 2300 is connected
to the
panel 100, the covering portion 154 of the panel 100 conceals at least a
portion of the trim-
defined configuration 2340. In some embodiments, for example, while the trim
2300 is
connected to the panel 100, the covering portion 154 of the panel 100 conceals
the entirety
of the trim-defined configuration 2340. In some embodiments, for example,
while the trim
2300 is connected to the panel 100, the covering portion 154 of the panel 100
conceals the
fastener-receiving portion 2316 of the trim 2300, such that a fastener
extending through the
fastener-receiving portion 2316 is concealed by the covering portion 154. Such
concealment
of the of the trim-defined configuration 2340, for example, the trim defined
connection
system counterpart configuration 2302, the fastener-receiving portion 2316,
and a fastener
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

extending through the fastener-receiving portion 2316, provides an
aesthetically pleasing
appearance to the connected trim 2300 and the panel 100.
[00265] In some embodiments, for example, while the trim 2300 is connected
to the
panel 100, the outermost surface 156 of the covering portion 154 of the panel
100 is
perpendicular to the outermost end surface 2304 of the trim 2300.
[00266] In some embodiments, for example, while the trim 2300 is connected
to the
panel 100, the second connection system counterpart 158 (e.g. the rearward
projection 158)
of the first connection system 32, of the panel 100 is received in the trim
defined first
connection system counterpart 2324 (e.g. a notch 2324) of the first connection
system 32, of
the trim 2300, similar to the manner in which the second connection system
counterpart 158
(e.g. the rearward projection 158) of the first connection system 32, of a
panel 100 is
received in the first connection system counterpart 110 (e.g. the notch 124)
of the first
connection system counterpart 32, of an adjacent panel 100, while the two
panels are
connected. In some embodiments, for example, while the trim 2300 is connected
to the
panel 100, the trim defined first connection system counterpart 2324 (e.g. a
notch 2324) of
the first connection system 32, of the trim 2300, and the second connection
system
counterpart 158 (e.g. the rearward projection 158) of the first connection
system 32, of the
panel 100 are configured for disposition in a relative movement interference
relationship, as
depicted in Figure 23, wherein, in the relative movement interference
relationship: 1) the
interacting portion 60 is disposed in the interference-effective
configuration, and 2) the trim
defined first connection system counterpart 2324 (e.g. the notch 2324) of the
first connection
system 32, of the trim 2300, and the second connection system counterpart 158
(e.g. the
rearward projection 158) of the first connection system 32, of the panel 100
are co-
operatively configured such that displacement of the panel 100, away from the
trim 2300,
along an axis that is: (i) parallel to the wall surface 12 or the front facing
surface 104, and (ii)
perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 2 (e.g. the axis of extrusion) of the
panel or the trim, is
opposed, for example, prevented (e.g. the notch 2324 and the projection 158 co-
operate to
oppose, for example, prevent, pulling apart of the panel 100 and the trim
2300), such that
defeating of the connection of the panel 100 and the trim 2300 is opposed
(e.g. prevented).
[00267] In some embodiments, for example, while the trim 2300 is connected
to the
panel 100, the projection 2314 is received in the channel 164, and the second
connection
system counterpart 160 of the second connection system 34 is received in the
recess 2326,
similar to the manner in which the shoulder 114 is received in the recess 164,
and the
second connection system counterpart 160 of the second connection system 34 is
received
in the recess 126, while two panels are connected. In some embodiments, for
example,
56
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

while the projection 2314 is received in the channel 164 and the second
connection system
counterpart 160 of the second connection system 34 is received in the recess
2326, the
projection 2314 and the second connection system counterpart 160 are co-
operatively
configured such that displacement of the panel 100, away from the trim 2300,
in a direction
that is parallel to a normal axis 1041 of the front-facing wall 104 of the
panel, is opposed, for
example, prevented (e.g. the projection 2314 and the and the wall member 161
co-operate
to oppose, for example, prevent, lifting of the panel 100 away from the trim
2300), such that
defeating of the connection of the panel and trim is opposed, for example,
prevented.
[00268] In some embodiments, for example, while the connected trim 2300 and
panel
100 is connected to the wall 1, for example, via a fastener, the visible
portion of the
outermost surface 156 of the covering portion 154 is parallel to the surface
of the wall 1 on
which the connected trim 2300 and panel 100 is mounted. In some embodiments,
for
example, while the connected trim 2300 and panel 100 is connected to the wall
1, for
example, via a fastener, the visible portion of the outermost surface 156 of
the covering
portion 154 is parallel to the outermost surface 104 of the panel 100 to
provide an
aesthetically pleasing appearance.
[00269] In some embodiments, for example, while the trim 2300 is connected
to the
panel 100, the outermost surface 156 of the covering portion 154 of the panel
100 is
perpendicular to the outermost end surface 2304 of the trim 2300. In some
embodiments,
for example, while the trim 2300 is connected to the panel 100, the outermost
surface 156
and the outermost end surface 2304 appears to meet at a corner, for example, a
rounded
corner, as defined by a surface 159, for example a rounded surface 159, that
extends
between the outermost surface 156 of the covering portion 154 and an outermost
surface of
the tongue 158. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, while the
trim 2300 is
connected to the panel 100, the outermost surface 156, the projection 158, and
the
outermost end surface 2304 are co-operatively configured to provide an
aesthetically
pleasing appearance.
[00270] In some embodiments, for example, while the trim 2300 is connected
to the
panel 100, the trim 2300 is disposed rearwardly of the covering portion 154.
In some
embodiments, for example, while the trim 2300 is connected to the panel 100,
the trim 2300
conceals the space rearwardly of the covering portion 154. In some
embodiments, for
example, while the trim 2300 is connected to the panel 100, the trim 2300
conceals the
recess 164 and at least a portion of the second connection system counterpart
160 of the
second connection system 34 of the panel 100, to provide an aesthetically
pleasing
appearance.
57
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[00271] In some embodiments, for example, while the trim 2300 is connected
to the
panel 100 and the connected trim 2300 and panel 100 are connected to a wall 1,
the
outermost end surface 2304 of the trim 2300 is perpendicular to the surface of
the wall 1, to
provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance.
[00272] In some embodiments, for example, while the trim 2300 is connected
to the
panel 100, the wall-opposing surface 2306 of the trim 2300 and the wall-
opposing surface
106 of the panel 100 are co-planar, to provide an aesthetically pleasing
appearance.
[00273] In some embodiments, for example, the visible surface 15A of the
residual
front facing surface portion 15 and the visible surface 156 of the covering
portion 154 of the
panel 100 are co-planar while the trim 2300 and the panel 100 are connected,
to provide an
aesthetically pleasing appearance.
[00274] In some embodiments, for example, to defeat or release the
connection
between connected trim 2300 and panel 100, the interacting portion 60 is
transitioned from
the interference effective configuration to the interference ineffective
configuration. At this
point, the panel 100 is displaceable away from the trim 2300 in a direction
parallel to the
front facing surface 104, for example, along an axis that is: (i) parallel to
the wall surface 12
or the front-facing surface 104, and (ii) perpendicular to the longitudinal
axis 2 (e.g. the axis
of extrusion) of the panel 100 or the trim 2300 (e.g. the panel 100 can be
pulled away from
the trim 2300).
[00275] In some embodiments, for example, to defeat or release the
connection
between connected trim 2300 and panel 100, one of the trim 2300 and the panel
100 is
rotated relative to the other of the trim 2300 and the panel 100.
[00276] Figure 22 depicts a trim 2300A that is an alternate embodiment of
the trim
2300. The trim 2300 and the trim 2300A are substantially similar, except the
panel 2300A is
solid wood. As depicted, in some embodiments, for example, where the 2300A is
solid
wood, there is an absence of hollow portions in the trim 2300A.
[00277] Figure 23 depicts a wall panel assembly 10C, including a connected
panel
100B and the trim 2300. As depicted, fasteners are extending through the
fastener-receiving
portion 116 of the panel 100B and the fastener-receiving portion 2316 of the
trim 2300.
[00278] Figure 24 depicts a wall panel assembly 10D, including a connected
panel
100D and the trim 2300A. As depicted, fasteners are extending through the
fastener-
58
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

receiving portion 116 of the panel 100C and the fastener-receiving portion
2316 of the trim
2300A.
[00279] Figure 25 depicts a wall panel assembly 10E, including a connected
panel
100E and the trim 2300. As depicted, fasteners are extending through the
fastener-receiving
portion 116 of the panel 100E, the fastener-receiving portion 2316 of the trim
2300, and the
fastener-receiving portions 1000 of the panel 100E.
[00280] Figure 26 depicts a wall panel assembly 10F, including a connected
panel
100F and the trim 2300A. As depicted, fasteners are extending through the
fastener-
receiving portion 116 of the panel 100F and the fastener-receiving portion
2316 of the trim
2300A, and the fastener-receiving portions 1000 of the panel 100F.
[00281] Figure 29 to Figure 37 depicts an example embodiment of a bracket
assembly or a mounting assembly 500. The assembly 500 is configured to be
connected to
a first wall surface configuration having a first pair of panel-defined
connection counterparts
39 spaced apart by a first spacing distance, and further configured to be
connected to a
second wall surface configuration having a second pair of panel-defined
connection
counterparts 39 spaced apart by a second spacing distance.
[00282] In some embodiments, for example, the assembly 500 comprises a
first
connector 504 or first connection counterpart 504, and further comprises a
second connector
or a second connection counterpart 508. In some embodiments, for example,
while the
assembly 500 is disposed in an operating configuration, the first connection
counterpart 504
is disposed above the second connection counterpart 508. In this respect, in
some
embodiments, for example, the first connection counterpart 504 is an upper
connection
counterpart 504, and the second connection counterpart 508 is a lower
connection
counterpart 508. In some embodiments, for example, as described herein, the
first
connection counterpart 504 is configured to co-operate with the cavity 130 of
a panel 100 or
a wall panel assembly 10 such that the assembly 500 is hangable from the panel
or the wall
panel assembly.
[00283] In some embodiments, for example, the second connection counterpart
508
includes a cavity, recess, or channel 509, as depicted in Figure 34 and Figure
35, to receive
at least a portion of the counterpart 39 of the wall panel assembly 10 or wall
panel 100, for
example, at least a portion of the retaining surface defining configuration
122 or at least a
portion of the interacting portion 60, for securing the assembly 500 to a wall
panel assembly
59
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

or a panel 100. In some embodiments, for example, the second connection
counterpart
508 is defined by a hook.
[00284] As depicted in Figure 29, in some embodiments, for example, the
first
connection counterpart 504 and the second connection counterpart 508 are
disposed at
opposite ends of the assembly 500.
[00285] In some embodiments, for example, the assembly 500 is configurable
in a
fixed configuration and an adjustable configuration. In the fixed
configuration, there is an
absence of adjustability of the spacing between the first connection
counterpart 504 and the
second connection counterpart 508. In the adjustable configuration, spacing
between the
first connection counterpart 504 and the second connection counterpart 508 is
adjustable
between at least a first spacing and a second spacing. In the first spacing,
the first
connection counterpart 504 and the second connection counterpart 508 are
disposed for
connection to the first pair of panel-defined connection counterparts 39, and
in the second
spacing, the first connection counterpart 504 and the second connection
counterpart 508 are
disposed for connection to the second pair of panel-defined connection
counterparts 39.
[00286] In some embodiments, for example, a first panel-defined connection
counterpart 39 of the first pair of panel-defined connection counterparts 39
includes a cavity
130, for example, the cavity 130 of the panel 100, as depicted in Figure 1,
for receiving the
first connection counterpart 504. In some embodiments, for example, a second
panel-
defined connection counterpart 39 of the first pair of panel-defined
connection counterparts
39 includes a cavity 130, for example, a cavity 130 of the panel 100 or a
cavity 130 of
another panel 100, for receiving the second connection counterpart 508. In
some
embodiments, for example, a first panel-defined connection counterpart 39 of
the second
pair of panel-defined connection counterparts 39 includes a cavity 130, for
example, the
cavity 130 of the panel 100, for receiving the first connection counterpart
504. In some
embodiments, for example, a second panel-defined connection counterparts 39 of
the
second pair of panel-defined connection counterparts 39 includes a cavity 130,
for example,
a cavity 130 of the panel 100 or a cavity 130 of another panel 100, for
receiving the second
connection counterpart 508.
[00287] In some embodiments, for example, the first spacing distance of the
first pair
of panel-defined connection counterparts 39 is different from the second
spacing distance of
the second pair of panel-defined connection counterparts 39. In some
embodiments, for
example, the first spacing distance of the first pair of panel-defined
connection counterparts
39 is 1 inch. In some embodiments, for example, the second spacing distance of
the second
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

pair of panel-defined connection counterparts 39 is 4 inches. In some
embodiments, for
example, the first spacing distance of the first pair of panel-defined
connection counterparts
39 is 3 inches. In some embodiments, for example, the second spacing distance
of the
second pair of panel-defined connection counterparts 39 is 9 inches. In some
embodiments,
for example, the first spacing distance of the first pair of panel-defined
connection
counterparts 39 is 6 inches. In some embodiments, for example, the second
spacing
distance of the second pair of panel-defined connection counterparts 39 is 8
inches. In some
embodiments, for example, the first spacing distance of the first pair of
panel-defined
connection counterparts 39 is 10 inches. In some embodiments, for example, the
second
spacing distance of the second pair of panel-defined connection counterparts
39 is 12
inches.
[00288] In some embodiments, for example, adjusting of the spacing from the
first
spacing to the second spacing is effected by displacement of the second
connection
counterpart 508 towards the first connection counterpart 504. In some
embodiments, for
example, adjusting of the spacing from the second spacing to the first spacing
is effected by
displacement of the second connection counterpart 508 away from the first
connection
counterpart 504.
[00289] In some embodiments, for example, adjusting of the spacing from the
first
spacing to the second spacing is effected by displacement of the second
connection
counterpart 508 away from the first connection counterpart 504. In some
embodiments, for
example, adjusting of the spacing from the second spacing to the first spacing
is effected by
displacement of the second connection counterpart 508 towards the first
connection
counterpart 504.
[00290] In some embodiments, for example, the first wall surface
configuration and
the second wall surface configuration are defined on the same wall panel
assembly 10.
[00291] In some embodiments, for example, wherein the first wall surface
configuration and the second wall surface configuration are defined on the
same wall panel
assembly 10, the first pair of panel-defined connection counterparts 39 is
defined by a first
panel-defined connection counterpart 39 and a second panel-defined connection
counterpart 39, and the second pair of panel-defined connection counterpart 39
is defined by
a third panel-defined connection counterpart 39 and a fourth panel-defined
connection
counterpart 39.
61
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[00292] In some embodiments, for example, wherein the first wall surface
configuration and the second wall surface configuration are defined on the
same wall panel
assembly 10, the first pair of panel-defined connection counterparts 39 is
defined by a first
panel-defined connection counterpart 39 and a second panel-defined connection
counterpart
39, and the second pair of panel-defined connection counterpart 39 is defined
by the first
panel-defined connection counterpart 39 and a third panel-defined connection
counterpart
39. In some embodiments, for example, wherein the first wall surface
configuration and the
second wall surface configuration are defined on the same wall panel assembly
10, the first
pair of panel-defined connection counterparts 39 is defined by a first panel-
defined
connection counterpart 39 and a second panel-defined connection counterpart
39, and the
second pair of panel-defined connection counterpart 39 is defined by the
second panel-
defined connection counterpart 39 and a third panel-defined connection
counterpart 39.
[00293] In some embodiments, for example, the first wall surface
configuration is
defined on a first wall panel assembly 10, and the second wall surface
configuration is
defined on a second wall panel assembly 10 that is different from the first
wall panel
assembly 10.
[00294] In some embodiments, for example, the assembly 500 includes a
mounting
bracket 502. In some embodiments, for example, the first connection
counterpart 504 is
defined by the bracket 502. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example,
the first
connection counterpart 504 is a bracket connector 504 or a first bracket-
defined connection
counterpart 504.
[00295] In some embodiments, for example, the bracket 502 comprises a
flange 503,
as depicted in Figure 29, to which a load supporter 530 of the assembly is
connected. In
some embodiments, for example, the flange 503 defines a front surface 505 and
a rear
surface 505A that is disposed on an opposite side of the flange 503 relative
to the front
surface 505. In some embodiments, for example, the front surface 505 defines a
surface
configured for being visible while the mounting assembly 500 is connected to
the wall panel
assembly 10 or panel 100. In some embodiments, for example, the rear surface
505A
defines a panel-opposing surface configured for opposing the front facing
surface 104 while
the mounting assembly 500 is connected to the wall panel assembly 10 or panel
100. In
some embodiments, for example, the front surface 505 is the front surface 505
of the bracket
502.
[00296] In some embodiments, for example, the flange 503 and the first
connection
counterpart 504 are connected. In some embodiments, for example, the bracket
502,
62
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

comprising the flange 503 and the first connection counterpart 504, is of
unitary one piece
construction. In some embodiments, for example, the first connection
counterpart 504
comprises: 1) a retaining member 510, defining a retaining surface 512, 2) a
connecting
member 514 defining a connecting member surface 516 and a seating surface 515,
wherein
the seating surface 515 is disposed on an opposite side of the connecting
member 514,
relative to the connecting member surface 516, and 3) an intermediate member
511,
extending between the retaining member 510 and the connecting member 514, the
intermediate member 511 having a member portion that defines an arcuate
surface 513,
wherein the connecting member 514 connects the retaining member 510 and the
intermediate member 511 to the flange 503.
[00297] In some embodiments, for example, the retaining member 510 is
configured
to co-operate with one of the panel-defined connection counterparts 39 of the
pair of first
panel-defined connection counterparts 39 such that, while the bracket 502 is
connected to
the wall panel assembly (e.g. while the retained configuration is
established), the retaining
surface 512 is disposed in opposing relationship with a retaining surface of
the one of the
panel-defined connection counterparts 39, for example, the retaining surface
134 of the
cavity 130, of the pair of panel-defined connection counterparts 39, such that
displacement
of the mounting bracket 502, away from the wall surface configuration, is
opposed, for
example, prevented.
[00298] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 31 and
Figure 33,
while the retained configuration is established, the retaining surface 512 is
disposed in
engagement, for example, abutting engagement, with the retaining surface 134.
In some
embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 31 and Figure 33, while the
retained
configuration is established, the arcuate surface 513 is disposed in
engagement, for
example, abutting engagement, with the guide surface 136. In some embodiments,
for
example, while the retained configuration is established, the arcuate surface
513 is disposed
in engagement, for example, abutting engagement, with the outer surface 72A of
the first
wall 72 of the rear wall configuration 70. In some embodiments, for example,
as depicted in
Figure 31 and Figure 33, while the retained configuration is established, the
seating surface
515 is disposed in engagement, for example, abutting engagement, with the
support surface
142.
[00299] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 31 and
Figure 33,
while the retained configuration is established, the retaining surface 512 is
bearing against
the retaining surface 134. In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in
Figure 31 and
Figure 33, while the retained configuration is established, the arcuate
surface 513 is bearing
63
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

against the guide surface 136. In some embodiments, for example, while the
retained
configuration is established, the arcuate surface 513 is bearing against the
outer surface
72A of the first wall 72 of the rear wall configuration 70. In some
embodiments, for example,
as depicted in Figure 31 and Figure 33, while the retained configuration is
established, the
seating surface 515 is bearing against the support surface 142.
[00300] In this respect, while the retained configuration is established,
the fit of the
first connection counterpart 504 in the cavity 130 is a friction fit. In some
embodiments, for
example, while the retained configuration is established, the fit of the first
connection
counterpart 504 in the cavity 130 is an interference fit.
[00301] In some embodiments, for example, the tight fit or snug fit of the
first
connection counterpart 504 in the cavity 130 is to interfere with displacement
of the first
connection counterpart 504, relative to the cavity 130, and therefore,
interfere with
displacement of the bracket 502, relative to the cavity 130, such that
displacement of the
bracket 502, relative to the cavity 130, while a load that is mounted to the
load supporter
530, is opposed (e.g. prevented).
[00302] In some embodiments, for example, the retaining surface 512, the
retaining
surface 134, the arcuate surface 513, and the guide surface 136 are co-
operatively
configured such that, while the retained configuration is established,
forwardly or rearwardly
displacement of the bracket 502, relative to the panel 100, in a direction
that is parallel to a
perpendicular axis of the front facing surface 104 (e.g. parallel to a
perpendicular axis of the
front facing surface 105 of the residual front facing wall portion 15), is
opposed (e.g.
prevented).
[00303] In some embodiments, for example, the arcuate surface 513 and the
guide
surface 136 are co-operatively configured such that, while the retained
configuration is
established, rotation of the bracket 502, relative to the panel 100, about a
rotation axis that is
parallel to a perpendicular axis of the front facing surface 104 (e.g.
parallel to a
perpendicular axis of the front facing surface 105 of the residual front
facing wall portion 15),
is opposed (e.g. prevented).
[00304] In some embodiments, for example, the seating surface 515 and the
supporting surface 142 are co-operatively configured such that, while the
retained
configuration is established, rotation of the bracket 502, relative to the
panel 100, about a
rotation axis that is parallel to a perpendicular axis of the front facing
surface 104 (e.g.
64
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

parallel to a perpendicular axis of the front facing surface 105 of the
residual front facing wall
portion 15), is opposed (e.g. prevented).
[00305] In some embodiments, for example, the arcuate surface 513, the
guide
surface 136, the seating surface 515, and the supporting surface 142 are co-
operatively
configured such that, while the retained configuration is established,
rotation of the bracket
502, relative to the panel 100, about a rotation axis that is parallel to a
perpendicular axis of
the front facing surface 104 (e.g. parallel to a perpendicular axis of the
front facing surface
105 of the residual front facing wall portion 15), is opposed (e.g.
prevented).
[00306] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 31 and
Figure 33,
while the retained configuration is established, the flange 503 and the front
facing wall 14 are
disposed in opposing relationship. In some embodiments, for example, as
depicted in
Figure 31 and Figure 33, while the retained configuration is established, the
flange 503 and
the front facing wall 14 are disposed in abutting engagement. In some
embodiments, for
example, as depicted in Figure 31 and Figure 33, while the retained
configuration is
established, the flange 503 is bearing against the front facing wall 14.
[00307] In some embodiments, for example, the retaining surface 512 defines
a
perpendicular axis, the connecting member surface 516 defines a perpendicular
axis, and an
acute angle defined between the perpendicular axis of the retaining surface
512 and the
perpendicular axis of the connecting member surface 516 has a maximum value of
85
degrees.
[00308] In some embodiments, for example, the first connection counterpart
504 is an
L-shaped first connection counterpart 504. In some embodiments, for example,
the retaining
member 510 and the connecting member 514 are disposed in a non-perpendicular
relationship.
[00309] In some embodiments, for example, the assembly comprises a
connection
counterpart-defining configuration 506. In some embodiments, for example, the
bracket 502
is releasably couplable to the connection counterpart-defining configuration
506. In some
embodiments, for example, while the bracket 502 is releasably coupled to the
connection
counterpart-defining configuration 506, the mounting assembly 500 is defined.
In some
embodiments, for example, the releasable coupling of the bracket 502 and the
connection
counterpart-defining configuration 506 is such that the connection counterpart-
defining
configuration 506 slidably coupled to the bracket 502.
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[00310] As depicted in Figure 29, the second connection counterpart 508 is
defined
by the connection counterpart-defining configuration 506. As depicted in
Figure 29 and
Figure 34 to Figure 37, in some embodiments, for example, the connection
counterpart-
defining configuration 506 includes an intermediate member 507. In some
embodiments, for
example, the second connection counterpart 508 is connected to the
intermediate member
507. In some embodiments, for example, the connection counterpart-defining
configuration
506, which includes the second connection counterpart 508 and the intermediate
member
507, is of unitary one piece construction.
[00311] The bracket 502, for example, the flange 503, is releasably
couplable to the
connection counterpart-defining configuration 506, such that, while the
bracket 502 and the
connection counterpart-defining configuration 506 are releasably coupled, the
relative
displacement is effectible between the bracket 502 and the connection
counterpart-defining
configuration 506. In some embodiments, for example, adjusting of the spacing
between the
first and second connection counterparts 504 and 508 is effectible by relative
displacement
between the bracket 502 and the connection counterpart-defining configuration
506. In some
embodiments, for example, the relative displacement effectible between the
bracket 502 and
the connection counterpart-defining configuration 506 includes sliding
displacement.
[00312] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 34 and
Figure 35,
the second connection counterpart 508 comprises a retaining member 540,
defining a
retaining surface 542, and a connecting member 544, extending between the
retaining
member 540 and the intermediate member 507. In some embodiments, for example,
the
cavity 509 is defined by the retaining member 540, the connecting member 544,
and the
intermediate member 507.
[00313] In some embodiments, for example, the retaining member 540 is
configured
to co-operate with one of the panel-defined connection counterparts 39 of the
pair of first
panel-defined connection counterparts 39 such that, while the bracket 502 is
connected to
the wall panel assembly (e.g. while the retained configuration is
established), insertion of the
second connection counterpart 508 into one of the panel-defined connection
counterparts
39, for example, the cavity 130 of an adjacent panel 100 (e.g. a panel that is
disposed lower
than the panel that defines the cavity 130 in which the first connection
counterpart 502 is
received), the retaining surface 542 is disposed in opposing relationship with
a retaining
surface of the one of the panel-defined connection counterparts 39, for
example, the
retaining surface 134 of the cavity 130, of the pair of panel-defined
connection counterparts
39, such that displacement of the mounting bracket 502, away from the wall
surface
configuration, is opposed.
66
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[00314] In some embodiments, for example, while the wall panel assembly 10
is
secured to a mounting wall, the cavity 130, for example, of the lower panel
100, is configured
for co-operation with the mounting assembly 500 such that, while the retained
configuration
is established, insertion of the second connection counterpart 508 into the
cavity 130 is with
effect that a displacement-resistant configuration is established, wherein, in
the
displacement-resistant configuration, displacement of the mounting assembly
500, relative to
the wall panel assembly 10, in a direction away from the mounting wall, is
opposed. In some
embodiments, for example the displacement that is opposed includes rotation of
the
mounting assembly 500, relative to the wall panel assembly 10, in a direction
away from the
mounting wall. in this respect, in some embodiments, for example, while the
wall panel
assembly 10 is secured to a mounting wall, the cavity 130, for example, of the
lower panel
100, is configured for co-operation with the mounting assembly 500 such that,
while the
retained configuration is established, insertion of the second connection
counterpart 508 into
the cavity 130 is with effect that a rotation-resistant configuration is
established, wherein, in
the rotation-resistant configuration, rotation of the mounting assembly 500,
relative to the
wall panel assembly 10, in a direction away from the mounting wall, is
opposed, for example,
prevented.
[00315] In some embodiments, for example, in the displacement-resistant
configuration or rotation-resistant configuration, the rotation of the
mounting assembly 500,
relative to the wall panel assembly 10, in a direction away from the mounting
wall, is
opposed by the retaining surface 134 of the lower panel 100. In some
embodiments, for
example, in the displacement-resistant configuration or rotation-resistant
configuration, the
retaining surface 542 of the retaining member 540 is disposed in abutting
engagement with
the retaining surface 134 of the lower panel 100.
[00316] In some embodiments, for example, while the displacement-resistant
configuration or rotation-resistant configuration is established, the
retaining surface-defining
configuration 122 is disposed within the channel 509 of the second connection
counterpart
508 of the mounting assembly 500. In some embodiments, for example, while the
displacement-resistant configuration or rotation-resistant configuration is
established, a
portion of the interacting portion 60, for example, the second connection
system counterpart
158 (e.g. the projection 158) of the second connection system 34, is disposed
within the
channel 509 of the second connection counterpart 508 of the mounting assembly
500.
[00317] In some embodiments, for example, the assembly 500 includes a
locking
mechanism 520. In some embodiments, for example, the locking mechanism 520
includes a
rotatable head 520A, and a threaded rod or stud that is releasably couplable
to the rotatable
67
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

head 520A via the threading at a first end, and that is also connected to the
connection
counterpart-defining configuration 506, for example, the intermediate member
507, for
example, via welding, at the second end. As depicted in Figure 29 and Figure
34, the
intermediate member 507 is disposed on a first side of the flange 503 (e.g.
rear side of the
flange 503), and the rotatable head 520A is disposed on a second side of the
flange 503 that
is opposite the first side (e.g. front side of the flange 503). In some
embodiments, for
example, the locking mechanism 520 is configured to effect frictional
engagement between
the bracket 502, for example, the flange 503, and the intermediate member 507,
and further
configured to defeat the frictional engagement between the bracket 502, for
example, the
flange 503, and the intermediate member 507.
[00318] The bracket 502, the connection counterpart-defining configuration
506, and
the locking mechanism 520 are co-operatively configured to transition between
a
displacement-effective configuration and a displacement ineffective
configuration. In the
displacement effective configuration, the bracket 502, the connection
counterpart-defining
configuration 506, and the locking mechanism 520 are co-operatively configured
such that
there is an absence of frictional engagement of the flange 503 and the
intermediate member
507 by the locking mechanism 520, such that the assembly 500 is disposed in
the adjustable
configuration, wherein the connection counterpart-defining configuration 506
is displaceable
relative to the bracket 502. In the displacement ineffective configuration,
the bracket 502, the
connection counterpart-defining configuration 506, and the locking mechanism
520 are co-
operatively configured such that frictional engagement of the flange 503 and
the
intermediate member 507 is effected by the locking mechanism 520, such that
the assembly
500 is disposed in the fixed configuration, wherein relative displacement
between the
connection counterpart-defining configuration 506 and the bracket 502 is
opposed, for
example, prevented.
[00319] In some embodiments, for example, the bracket 502, the connection
counterpart-defining configuration 506, and the locking mechanism 520 are
transitionable
from the displacement effective configuration to the displacement-ineffective
configuration in
response to actuation of the locking mechanism 520, for example, by rotation
of the head
520A in a first direction, for example, a clockwise direction. In some
embodiments, for
example, in response to actuation of the locking mechanism 520 in the first
direction, a force
is applied by the locking mechanism 520 to the connection counterpart-defining
configuration
506 to displace the connection counterpart-defining configuration 506 towards
the bracket
502, such that at the intermediate member 507 becomes disposed in frictional
engagement
68
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

with the flange 503, with effect that the assembly 500 becomes disposed in the
fixed
configuration.
[00320] In some embodiments, for example, the bracket 502, the connection
counterpart-defining configuration 506, and the locking mechanism 520 are
transitionable
from the displacement ineffective configuration to the displacement effective
configuration in
response to actuation of the locking mechanism 520, for example, by rotation
of the head
520A in a second direction that is opposite the first direction, for example,
a counter
clockwise direction. In some embodiments, for example, in response to
actuation of the
locking mechanism 520 in the second direction, a force is applied by the
locking mechanism
520 to the connection counterpart-defining configuration 506 to displace the
connection
counterpart-defining configuration 506 away from the bracket 502, such that
frictional
engagement between the flange 503 and the intermediate member 507 is defeated,
with
effect that the assembly 500 becomes disposed in the fixed configuration.
[00321] In some embodiments, for example, the bracket 502 includes a slot
524. As
depicted, in some embodiments, for example, the slot 524 is a linear slot. As
depicted, the
slot 524 is defined by the flange 503. The slot 524 extends from a bottom end
of the flange
503. As depicted in Figure 29, the slot 524 extends from the bottom end of the
flange 503 to
the middle of the flange 503. In some embodiments, for example, the length of
the slot 524
is generally half the length of the flange 503. The slot 524 is configured to
receive at least a
portion of the threaded stud of the locking mechanism 520, such that the
threaded stud
extends through the slot 524, such that, while the rotatable head 520A is
releasably coupled
to the threaded stud via the threading, the bracket 502 and the connection
counterpart-
defining configuration 506 are releasably coupled, and the intermediate member
507 is
disposed on the first side of the flange 503 (e.g. rear side of the flange
503), and the
rotatable head 520A is disposed on the second side of the flange 503 that is
opposite the
first side (e.g. front side of the flange 503). In some embodiments, for
example, the slot 524
limits displacement of the threaded stud of the locking mechanism 520, and
therefore, limits
the displacement of the connection counterpart-defining configuration 506,
relative to the
bracket 502. In some embodiments, for example, the slot 524 defines an upper
terminal end
that limits further upward displacement of the threaded stud of the locking
mechanism 520
and therefore, limits further upward displacement of the connection
counterpart-defining
configuration 506, relative to the bracket 502. In some embodiments, for
example, the slot
524 defines a lower terminal end that limits further downward displacement of
the threaded
stud of the locking mechanism 520 and therefore, limits further downward
displacement of
the connection counterpart-defining configuration 506, relative to the bracket
502.
69
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[00322] In some embodiments, for example, the flange 503 includes a raised
portion
521 that defines a recess 522 for receiving at least a portion of the
connection counterpart-
defining configuration 506, in particular, for receiving at least a portion of
the intermediate
member 507. While the bracket 502 and the connection counterpart-defining
configuration
506 are releasably coupled, at least a portion of the intermediate member 507
is received in
the recess 522.
[00323] In some embodiments, for example, the flange 503 includes the
recess 522
for receiving at least a portion of the intermediate member 507, while the
bracket 502 and
the connection counterpart-defining configuration 506 are releasably coupled,
such that,
while the bracket 502 and the connection counterpart-defining configuration
506 are
releasably coupled, the intermediate member 507 is not disposed rearwardly of
the rear
surface 505A of the flange 503. In some embodiments, for example, it is
desirable for the
intermediate member 507 to not be disposed rearwardly of the rear surface 505A
of the
flange 503, while the bracket 502 and the connection counterpart-defining
configuration 506
are releasably coupled, as disposition of the intermediate member 507
rearwardly of the rear
surface 505A, while the bracket 502 and the connection counterpart-defining
configuration
506 are releasably coupled, interferes with the securing of the mounting
assembly 500 to the
wall panel assembly 10 or the panel 100.
[00324] In some embodiments, for example, the recess 522 and the connection

counterpart-defining configuration 506 are co-operatively configured such that
the
connection counterpart-defining configuration 506 is slidable, relative to the
bracket 502,
while the at least a portion of the connection counterpart-defining
configuration 506, for
example, the intermediate member 507, is received in the recess 522.
[00325] As depicted, in some embodiments, for example, the slot 524 is
defined by
the raised portion 521.
[00326] In some embodiments, for example, the assembly 500 is configurable
in a
retracted configuration, an extended configuration, and an intermediate
configuration. In the
retracted configuration, the spacing distance between the first connection
counterpart 504
and the second connection counterpart 508 is a minimum spacing distance, as
depicted in
Figure 29 and Figure 34. In some embodiments, for example, the bracket 502,
the locking
mechanism 520, and the connection counterpart-defining configuration 506 are
co-
operatively configured such that, while the locking mechanism 520, for
example, the
threaded stud, is disposed at the upper terminal end of the slot 524, the
assembly 500 is
disposed in the retracted configuration. In some embodiments, for example,
while the
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

assembly 500 is disposed in the retracted configuration, the intermediate
member 507 is
entirely disposed in the recess 522, for example, as depicted in Figure 34. In
the extended
configuration, the spacing distance between the first connection counterpart
504 and the
second connection counterpart 508 is a maximum spacing distance, as depicted
in Figure
35. In some embodiments, for example, the bracket 502, the locking mechanism
520, and
the connection counterpart-defining configuration 506 are co-operatively
configured such
that, while the locking mechanism 520, for example, the threaded stud, is
disposed at the
lower terminal end of the slot 524, the assembly 500 is disposed in the
extended
configuration. In the intermediate configuration, the spacing distance between
the first
connection counterpart 504 and the second connection counterpart 508 is
between the
minimum spacing distance and the maximum spacing distance. In some
embodiments, for
example, the bracket 502, the locking mechanism 520, and the connection
counterpart-
defining configuration 506 are co-operatively configured such that, while the
locking
mechanism 520, for example, the threaded stud, is disposed between the upper
terminal
end and the lower terminal end of the slot 524, the assembly 500 is disposed
in the
intermediate configuration.
[00327] In some embodiments, for example, the minimum and maximum spacing
distances between the first connection counterpart 504 and the second
connection
counterpart 508 is defined based on: 1) the length of the slot 524, 2) the
position of the slot
524 on the flange 503, and 2) the length of the intermediate member 507.
[00328] In some embodiments, for example, the bracket 502 and the
connection
counterpart-defining configuration 506 are co-operatively configured such that
the minimum
spacing distance between the first connection counterpart 504 and the second
connection
counterpart 508 is 1 inch, and the maximum spacing distance between the first
connection
counterpart 504 and the second connection counterpart 508 is 12 inches.
[00329] In some embodiments, for example, for a given length of the slot
524, a
decrease in length of the intermediate member 507 decreases the minimum and
maximum
spacing distances between the first connection counterpart 504 and the second
connection
counterpart 508, and an increase in length of the intermediate member 507
increases the
minimum and maximum spacing distances between the first connection counterpart
504 and
the second connection counterpart 508.
[00330] In some embodiments, for example, for a given length of the
intermediate
member 507, and for a slot 524 that extends from the bottom of the flange 503
in an upward
direction, a decrease in length of the slot 524 increases the minimum spacing
distance
71
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

between the first connection counterpart 504 and the second connection
counterpart 508,
but does not increase the maximum spacing distance between the first
connection
counterpart 504 and the second connection counterpart 508, and an increase in
length of
the slot 524 decreases the minimum spacing distance between the first
connection
counterpart 504 and the second connection counterpart 508, but does not
decrease the
maximum spacing distance between the first connection counterpart 504 and the
second
connection counterpart 508.
[00331] In some embodiments, for example, the mounting assembly 500
includes a
load supporter 530. In some embodiments, for example, the load supporter 530
is
connected to the bracket 502, for example, the flange 530, for example, by
welding,
mechanical fasteners, adhesives, and the like. The load supporter 530 includes
a load-
supporting portion 532, the load-supporting portion configured to support a
load, such as
tires, storage boxes and bins, tools, sports equipment, outdoor equipment,
lumber, clothes,
appliances, pool accessories and toys, and the like. As depicted in Figure 29,
in some
embodiments, for example the load supporter 530 includes two hooks. In some
embodiments, for example, the load supporter includes 530 one hook. In some
embodiments, for example, the load supporter includes 530 a ring from which a
load is hung.
In some embodiments, for example, the load supporter includes 530 a ring from
which a load
is received. In some embodiments, for example, the load supporter 300 includes
a basket in
which a load is received. In some embodiments, for example, the load supporter
300
includes a rod on which a load is supported, for example, a rod to hang
clothes.
[00332] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 29, Figure
31, and
Figure 35, the load-supporting portion 532 extends outwardly, relative to the
front surface
505 of the flange 503. In some embodiments, for example, the load-supporting
portion 532
extends outwardly, relative to the front surface 505 of the flange 503, along
a plane that is
perpendicular to a plane defined by the front surface 505 of the flange 503.
In some
embodiments, for example, the load-supporting portion 532 extends in a
direction along an
axis 534 that traverses a plane defined by the front surface 505 of the flange
503. In some
embodiments, for example, the traversing of the plane defined by the front
surface 505 of the
flange 503 by the extension axis of the load-supporting portion 532 is such
that the axis 534
is normal to the plane defined by the front surface 505 of the flange 503. In
some
embodiments, for example, the traversing of the plane defined by the front
surface 505 of the
flange 503 by the extension axis 534 of the load-supporting portion 532 is
such that the axis
534 is angled relative to the plane defined by the front surface 505 of the
flange 503, the
axis 534 and the plane defining an acute angle (e.g. the load supporting
portion 532 extends
72
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

from the flange 503 in a direction to the left or to the right). In some
embodiments, for
example, the acute angle defined between the axis 534 and the plane defined by
the front
surface 505 of the flange 503 has a minimum value of at least 60 degrees.
[00333] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 31, the
load-
supporting portion 532 extends outwardly and in an upward direction, relative
to the front
surface 505 of the flange 503. In this respect, in some embodiments, for
example, the axis
534 is angled upwardly relative to a normal axis of the plane defined by the
front surface 505
of the flange 503, the axis 534 and the normal axis defining an acute angle
therebetween.
In some embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between the axis 534
and the
normal axis of the plane defined by the front surface 505 of the flange 503
has a minimum
value of at least 1 degree.
[00334] In some embodiments, for example, the load-supporting portion 532
extends
outwardly and in a downward direction, relative to the front surface 505 of
the flange 503. In
this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the axis 534 is angled
downwardly relative
to a normal axis of the plane defined by the front surface 505 of the flange
503, the axis 534
and the normal axis defining an acute angle therebetween. In some embodiments,
for
example, the acute angle defined between the axis 534 and the normal axis of
the plane
defined by the front surface 505 of the flange 503 has a maximum value of 5
degrees.
[00335] In some embodiments, for example, the load supporter 530 includes a
load-
retaining portion 536, configured to oppose, for example, prevent, removal of
a load that is
supported by the load-supporting portion 532. As depicted in Figure 29 and
Figure 31, the
load-retaining portion 536 is angled relative to the load-supporting portion
532. In some
embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between load supporting
portion 532
and the load-retaining portion 536 has a minimum value of at least 5 degrees.
Due to the
angled disposition of the load-retaining portion 536, relative to the load-
supporting portion
532, while a load is supported by the load-supporting portion 532, if the load
is displaced in a
direction that is parallel to the axis 534, the load will engage the load-
retaining portion 536,
which will oppose, for example, prevent, further displacement of the load in
the direction that
is parallel to the axis 534. To remove the load, the direction of displacement
of the load is to
be changed, in particular, to a direction along an axis of extension of the
load-retaining
portion 536, which is angled relative to the axis 534.
[00336] In some embodiments, for example, the mounting assembly 500
includes one
bracket 502, and a load supporter 530, for example, one or more hooks,
baskets, hanging
rods, and the like, that is connected to the bracket 502, and further includes
one connection
73
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

counterpart-defining configuration 506 that is releasably coupled to the
bracket 502. In such
embodiments, for example, while the mounting assembly 500 is secured to a wall
panel
assembly 10 or panel 100, the load that is supported by the load supporter 530
is distributed
to the wall panel assembly 10 or panel 100 via the bracket 502.
[00337] In some embodiments, for example, the mounting assembly 500
includes one
bracket 502, and a load supporter 530, for example, one or more hooks,
baskets, hanging
rods, and the like, that is connected to the bracket 502, and further includes
more than one
connection counterpart-defining configuration 506 that are each releasably
coupled to the
bracket 502. In such embodiments, for example, for each one of the plurality
of connection
counterpart-defining configuration 506, the flange 503 defines a recess 522
for receiving the
intermediate member 507, and further defines a slot 524 for receiving the
threaded stud of
the connection counterpart-defining configuration 506 and defining the minimum
and
maximum spacing distances between the first connection system counterpart 504
and the
second connection system counterpart 508 of the connection counterpart-
defining
configuration 506. In such embodiments, for example, while the mounting
assembly 500 is
secured to a wall panel assembly 10 or panel 100, the load that is supported
by the load
supporter 530 is distributed to the wall panel assembly 10 or panel 100 via
the bracket 502.
[00338] In some embodiments, for example, the mounting assembly 500
includes
more than one bracket 502, and a load supporter 530, for example, one or more
hooks,
baskets, hanging rods, and the like, that is connected to the brackets 502,
and, for each one
of the brackets 502, independently, the assembly 500 further includes a
connection
counterpart-defining configuration 506 that is connected to the bracket 502.
In such
embodiments, for example, while the mounting assembly 500 is secured to a wall
panel
assembly 10 or panel 100, the load that is supported by the load supporter 530
is distributed
to the wall panel assembly 10 or panel 100 via the plurality of brackets 502.
[00339] To connect the assembly 500 to a wall panel assembly 10, which, in
some
embodiments, for example, is secured to a mounting wall 1, as depicted in
Figure 31, the
spacing of the first connection counterpart 504 and the second connection
counterpart 508 is
adjusted to correspond to the spacing distance between a pair of cavities 130,
the pair of
cavities 130 including an upper cavity 130 and a lower cavity 130, wherein the
upper cavity
130 is disposed above the lower cavity 130 while the wall panel assembly 10 is
connected to
a wall. As depicted, the upper cavity 130 is the cavity 130 of a panel 100
(e.g. an upper
panel 100), and the lower cavity 130 is the cavity 130 of an adjacent panel
100 (e.g. a lower
panel 100). Then, the first connection counterpart 504 is inserted into the
upper cavity 130
and rotated, relative to the wall panel assembly 10, to retain the bracket 502
to the wall
74
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

panel assembly 10, as described herein. At this point, the bracket 502 is
hanging from the
wall panel assembly 10, wherein the bracket 502 is vertically supported by the
wall panel
assembly 10, and displacement of the bracket 502, relative to the wall panel
assembly 10, in
a direction that is normal to the outermost surface of the wall panel assembly
10, is opposed.
To secure the assembly 500 to the wall panel assembly 10, the displacement-
resistant
configuration, for example, the rotation-resistant configuration, is
established. To establish
the displacement-resistant configuration or rotation-resistant configuration,
the second
connection counterpart 508 is disposed into the lower cavity 130, as depicted
in Figure 31,
and the spacing of the first connection counterpart 504 and the second
connection
counterpart 508, while the first connector counterpart 504 is disposed in the
upper cavity 130
and the second connection counterpart 508 is disposed in the lower cavity 130,
is adjusted,
for example, decreased, such that the mounting assembly 500 is gripping the
wall panel
assembly 10. In some embodiments, for example, the adjusting of the spacing
between the
first connection counterpart 504 and the second connection counterpart 508 to
grip the wall
panel assembly 10 is with effect that the second connection counterpart 508,
for example,
the retaining surface 542 of the retaining member 540, becomes disposed in
abutting
engagement with the retaining surface 134 of the lower panel 100. In some
embodiments,
for example, the adjusting of the spacing between the first connection
counterpart 504 and
the second connection counterpart 508 to grip the wall panel assembly 10 is
with effect that:
1) at least a portion of the retaining surface defining configuration 122 of
the lower panel
100, and 2) at least a portion of the interacting portion 60 of the upper
panel 100, are
disposed in the channel 509 of the second connection counterpart 508. In this
respect, in
some embodiments, for example, the panel-defined connection counterpart 39
includes the
retaining surface defining configuration 122 of the lower panel 100, and, in
some
embodiments, for example, the panel-defined connection counterpart 39 includes
the
interacting portion 60 of the upper panel 100. In some embodiments, for
example, while the
first connection counterpart 504 is disposed in the upper cavity 130, such
that the retained
configuration is established, the first connection counterpart 504, the
guiding surface 136,
and the retaining surface 134 of the upper panel 100 are co-operatively
configured to
oppose (e.g. prevent) forwardly or rearwardly displacement of the first
connection
counterpart 504, in a direction parallel to a normal axis of the front facing
surface 104, for
example, while the spacing between the first connection counterpart 504 and
the second
connection counterpart 508 is being adjusted. In some embodiments, for
example, while the
displacement-resistant configuration or rotation-resistant configuration is
established, for
example, while the second connection counterpart 508 is disposed in the lower
cavity 130,
and while the retaining surface defining configuration 122 of the lower panel
is disposed in
the channel 509, the second connection counterpart 508, for example, the
retaining surface
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

542 of the retaining member 540, and the retaining surface defining
configuration 122 of the
lower panel 100 co-operate to oppose (e.g. prevent) forwardly or rearwardly
displacement of
the second connection counterpart 508, in a direction parallel to a normal
axis of the front
facing surface 104. In some embodiments, for example, while the displacement-
resistant
configuration or rotation-resistant configuration is established, for example,
while the second
connection counterpart 508 is disposed in the lower cavity 130, and while the
retaining
surface defining configuration 122 of the lower panel is disposed in the
channel 509, the
second connection counterpart 508, for example, the retaining surface 542 of
the retaining
member 540, and the retaining surface 134 of the lower panel 100 co-operate to
oppose
(e.g. prevent) rotation of the assembly 500, for example, the bracket 502,
relative to the wall
panel assembly 10, in the direction away from the wall panel assembly 10. At
this point,
while the assembly 500 is gripping the wall panel assembly 10, the assembly
500 is
transitioned from the adjustable configuration to the fixed configuration, for
example, via
actuation of the locking mechanism 520, to secure the assembly 500 to the wall
panel
assembly 10. In some embodiments, for example, while the assembly 500 is
secured to the
wall panel assembly 10, a load that is supported by the load supporter 530 is
supported by
the wall panel assembly 10 via the assembly 500 that is secured to the wall
panel assembly
10, and is further supported by the wall 1, on which the wall panel assembly
10 is secured.
In some embodiments, for example, while the assembly 500 is secured to the
wall panel
assembly 10, rotation of the assembly 500, for example, the bracket 502,
relative to the wall
panel assembly 10, is opposed (e.g. prevented). In some embodiments, for
example, by
opposing (e.g. preventing) rotation of the assembly 500, for example, the
bracket 502
relative to the wall panel assembly 10, the securing of the assembly 500 to
the wall panel
assembly 10 secures the retention of the assembly 500 to the wall panel
assembly 10, and
opposes, for example, prevents, disconnection, for example, accidental
disconnection, of the
assembly 500 from the wall panel assembly 10.
[00340] In some embodiments, for example, while the first connection
counterpart 504
and the second connection counterpart 508 are gripping the wall panel assembly
10, the
spacing between the first connection counterpart 504 and the second connection

counterpart 508 is such that the assembly 500 is disposed in the intermediate
configuration.
[00341] In some embodiments, for example, the hanging and securing of the
assembly 500 to the wall panel assembly 10 or the panel 100 is effectible
without the use of
fasteners, for example, mechanical fasteners.
[00342] In some embodiments, for example, to release the assembly 500 from
the
wall panel assembly 10, the assembly 500 is transitioned from the fixed
configuration to the
76
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

adjustable configuration, for example, via actuation of the locking mechanism
520, and the
spacing between the first connection counterpart 504 and the second connection

counterpart 508 is adjusted, for example, increased, such that the assembly
500 is no longer
gripping the wall panel assembly 10, there is an absence of establishment of
the
displacement-resistant configuration or rotation-resistant configuration, and
the assembly
500 is rotatable relative to the wall panel assembly 10. At this point, the
assembly 500 is
released from retention from the wall panel assembly 10, for example, by
rotating the
bracket connector 504 via rotation of the bracket 502 away from the wall panel
assembly 10,
and displacing the assembly 500 from the upper cavity 130 of the wall panel
assembly 10.
In some embodiments, for example, while the assembly 500 is released from the
wall panel
assembly 10, the assembly 500 is repositionable to another part of the wall
panel assembly
and connectible to the wall panel assembly 10 at said another part of the wall
panel
assembly 10, or is repositionable to another wall panel assembly 10 and
connectible to said
another wall panel assembly 10.
[00343] The assembly 500 can be hung, retained, and secured to a panel 100
that
includes more than one cavity 130, and can be released from the panel 100,
similar to the
manner in which the mounting assembly 500 is hung, retained, secured, and
released from
the wall panel assembly 10.
[00344] As depicted in Figure 36 and Figure 37, the assembly 500 can be
hung,
retained, and secured to a panel 100, and can be released from the panel 100,
similar to the
manner in which the assembly 500 is hung, retained, secured, and released from
the wall
panel assembly 10. In some embodiments, for example, the assembly 500 is
connectible to
a panel described herein, for example, the panels 100 to 100F. In such
embodiments for
example, the first connection counterpart 504 is connectible to the cavity 130
of the panel,
and the second connection counterpart 508 is connectible to the interacting
portion 60 of the
panel 100. In this respect, the pair of panel-defined connection counterparts
39 includes the
cavity 130, the interacting portion 60, and the space disposed rearwardly of
the interacting
portion 60 of the panel 100. In some embodiments, for example, the assembly
500 is
secured to the panel in a manner similar to securing the assembly 500 to the
wall panel
assembly 10, except, in some embodiments, for example, the adjusting of the
spacing
between the first connection counterpart 504 and the second connection
counterpart 508, to
establish the displacement-resistant configuration or rotation-resistant
configuration, for
gripping the panel 100, is with effect that at least a portion of the
interacting portion 60, for
example, the second connection system counterpart 158 (e.g. the projection
158) of the
second connection system 34, and at least a portion of the covering portion
154, are
77
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

disposed in the channel 509 of the second connection counterpart 508. In some
embodiments, for example, the adjusting of the spacing between the first
connection
counterpart 504 and the second connection counterpart 508, to establish the
displacement-
resistant configuration or rotation-resistant configuration, for gripping the
panel 100, is with
effect that the interacting portion 60, for example, the terminal end of the
interacting portion
60, becomes disposed in abutting engagement with the second connection
counterpart 508,
for example, the connecting member 544 of the second connection counterpart
508.
[00345] Accordingly, the spacing distance between the first connection
counterpart
504 and the second connection counterpart 508 is adjustable such that the
assembly 500 is
connectible and securable to the first wall surface configuration having the
first pair of panel-
defined connection counterparts 39 spaced apart by the first spacing distance,
for example,
as depicted in Figure 36, and such that the assembly 500 is also connectible
and securable
to the second wall surface configuration having the second pair of panel-
defined connection
counterparts 39 spaced apart by the second spacing distance, for example, as
depicted in
Figure 37. As depicted, the first spacing distance and the second spacing
distance are
different.
[00346] In some embodiments, for example, the material of the bracket 502
includes
metal, for example, steel or aluminum.
[00347] Figure 38 to Figure 40 depict a mounting assembly 500A that is an
embodiment of the mounting assembly 500 as depicted in Figure 29 to Figure 37.
The
mounting assembly 500A substantially corresponds to the mounting assembly 500,
except
the intermediate member 507A of the connection counterpart-defining
configuration 506A of
the mounting assembly 500A is longer than the intermediate member 507 of the
connection
counterpart-defining configuration 506 of the mounting assembly 500, such that
the
mounting assembly 500A is connectible to a pair of panel-defined connection
counterparts
39 that are spaced relatively far apart. In some embodiments, for example, the
intermediate
member 507A is shorter than the intermediate member 507. In some embodiments,
for
example, the length of the intermediate member 507A of the connection
counterpart-defining
configuration 506A is based on the spacing between the pairs of panel-defined
connection
counterparts 39 to which the mounting assembly 500A is to be connected.
[00348] The mounting assembly 500A can be connected to, and secured to, a
wall
panel assembly 10 or a panel 100, similar to the manner by which the
connection and
securing between the mounting assembly 500 to the wall panel assembly 10 or
the panel
100, is established.
78
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[00349] In some embodiments, for example, the mounting assembly 500A can be

assembled from the mounting assembly 500. In such embodiments, for example,
the
connection counterpart-defining configuration 506 is disconnected from the
bracket 502, by
decoupling the rotatable head 520A of the locking mechanism 520 from the
threaded stud
that is connected to the connection counterpart-defining configuration 506 of
the mounting
assembly 500. At this point, the connection between the bracket 502 and the
connection
counterpart-defining configuration 506 is defeated, and the connection
counterpart-defining
configuration 506 is separated from the bracket 502. Then, the connection
counterpart-
defining configuration 506A is connected to the bracket 502. To connect the
connection
counterpart-defining configuration 506A to the bracket 502, the threaded stud
is received
through the slot 524 of the bracket, and the rotatable head 520A is connected
to the
threaded stud of the connection counterpart-defining configuration 506A. At
this point, the
bracket 502 and the connection counterpart-defining configuration 506A are
releasably
coupled, and the assembly 500A is defined.
[00350] Accordingly, the bracket 502 is releasably couplable to the
connection
counterpart-defining configuration 506, and also releasably couplable to the
connection
counterpart-defining configuration 506A, for defining the assembly 500 and the
assembly
500A, respectively.
[00351] While the bracket 502 is releasably coupled to the connection
counterpart-
defining configuration 506A, the mounting assembly 500A is defined, wherein
the mounting
assembly 500A is configurable in a fixed configuration and an adjustable
configuration,
similar to the mounting assembly 500.
[00352] In the fixed configuration, the releasably coupling between the
bracket 502
and the connection counterpart-defining configuration 506A is such that there
is an absence
of displaceability of the connection counterpart-defining configuration 508 of
the connection
counterpart-defining configuration 506A, relative to the bracket 502, such
that there is an
absence of adjustability of the spacing between the connection counterparts
504 and 508.
[00353] In the adjustable configuration, the releasably coupling between
the bracket
502 and the connection counterpart-defining configuration 506A is such that
the connection
counterpart-defining configuration 506A is displaceable, relative to the
bracket 502, such that
spacing between the connection counterparts 504 and 508 is adjustable between
at least a
third spacing and a fourth spacing, wherein:
79
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[00354] in the third spacing, the connection counterparts 504 and 508 are
disposed
for connection to a third wall surface configuration having a third pair of
panel-defined
connection counterparts 39 spaced apart by a third spacing distance;
[00355] in the fourth spacing, the connection counterparts 504 and 508 are
disposed
for connection to a fourth wall surface configuration having a fourth pair of
panel-defined
connection counterparts 39 spaced apart by a fourth spacing distance.
[00356] In some embodiments, for example, the third spacing distance of the
third pair
of panel-defined connection counterparts 39 is different from the fourth
spacing distance of
the fourth pair of panel-defined connection counterparts 39.
[00357] In some embodiments, for example, adjusting of the spacing from the
third
spacing to the fourth spacing is effected by displacement of the second
connection
counterpart 508 towards the first connection counterpart 504. In some
embodiments, for
example, adjusting of the spacing from the fourth spacing to the third spacing
is effected by
displacement of the second connection counterpart 508 away from the first
connection
counterpart 504.
[00358] In some embodiments, for example, adjusting of the spacing from the
third
spacing to the fourth spacing is effected by displacement of the second
connection
counterpart 508 away from the first connection counterpart 504. In some
embodiments, for
example, adjusting of the spacing from the fourth spacing to the third spacing
is effected by
displacement of the second connection counterpart 508 towards the first
connection
counterpart 504.
[00359] In some embodiments, for example, the first spacing distance of the
first pair
of panel-defined connection counterparts 39, to which the mounting assembly
500 is
connectible, is different from the third spacing distance of the third pair of
panel-defined
connection counterparts 39, to which the mounting assembly 500A is
connectible.
[00360] In some embodiments, for example, the second spacing distance of
the
second pair of panel-defined connection counterparts 39, to which the mounting
assembly
500 is connectible, is different from the third spacing distance of the third
pair of panel-
defined connection counterparts 39, to which the mounting assembly 500A is
connectible.
[00361] In some embodiments, for example, the first spacing distance of the
first pair
of panel-defined connection counterparts 39, to which the mounting assembly
500 is
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

connectible, is different from the fourth spacing distance of the fourth pair
of panel-defined
connection counterparts 39, to which the mounting assembly 500A is
connectible.
[00362] In some embodiments, for example, the second spacing distance of
the
second pair of panel-defined connection counterparts 39, to which the mounting
assembly
500 is connectible, is different from the fourth spacing distance of the
fourth pair of panel-
defined connection counterparts 39, to which the mounting assembly 500A is
connectible.
[00363] In some embodiments, for example, each one of the first wall
surface
configuration, the second wall surface configuration, the third wall surface
configuration, and
the fourth wall surface configuration is defined on the same wall panel
assembly 10.
[00364] In some embodiments, for example, wherein each one of the first
wall surface
configuration, the second wall surface configuration, the third wall surface
configuration, and
the fourth wall surface configuration is defined on the same wall panel
assembly 10, the first
pair of panel-defined connection counterparts 39 is defined by a first panel-
defined
connection counterpart 39 and a second panel-defined connection counterpart
39, the
second pair of panel-defined connection counterpart 39 is defined by a third
panel-defined
connection counterpart 39 and a fourth panel-defined connection counterpart
120, the third
pair of panel-defined connection counterpart 39 is defined by a fifth panel-
defined
connection counterpart 39 and a sixth panel-defined connection counterpart 39,
and the
fourth pair of panel-defined connection counterpart 39 is defined by a seventh
panel-defined
connection counterpart 39 and a eighth panel-defined connection counterpart
120.
[00365] In some embodiments, for example, wherein each one of the first
wall surface
configuration, the second wall surface configuration, the third wall surface
configuration, and
the fourth wall surface configuration is defined on the same wall panel
assembly 10, the first
pair of panel-defined connection counterparts 39 is defined by a first panel-
defined
connection counterpart 39 and a second panel-defined connection counterpart
39, the
second pair of panel-defined connection counterpart 39 is defined by the first
panel-defined
connection counterpart 39 and a third panel-defined connection counterpart
120, the third
pair of panel-defined connection counterpart 39 is defined by the first panel-
defined
connection counterpart 39 and a fourth panel-defined connection counterpart
39, and the
fourth pair of panel-defined connection counterpart 39 is defined by the first
panel-defined
connection counterpart 39 and a fifth panel-defined connection counterpart
120.
[00366] In some embodiments, for example, at least one of the first,
second, third,
and fourth wall configuration is defined on a first wall panel assembly 10,
and at least one of
81
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

the other of the first, second, third, and fourth wall configuration is
defined on a second wall
panel assembly 10.
[00367] In some embodiments, for example, the first wall surface
configuration is
defined on a first wall panel assembly 10, and each one of the second wall
surface
configuration, the third wall surface configuration, and the fourth wall
surface configuration is
on a second wall panel assembly 10.
[00368] In some embodiments, for example, each one of the first wall
surface
configuration, the second wall surface configuration, and the third wall
surface configuration
are defined on a first wall panel assembly 10, and the fourth wall surface
configuration is on
a second wall panel assembly 10.
[00369] In some embodiments, for example, each one of the first wall
surface
configuration and the second wall surface configuration is defined on a first
wall panel
assembly 10, and each one of the third wall surface configuration and the
fourth wall surface
configuration is on a second wall panel assembly 10.
[00370] In some embodiments, for example, the first wall surface
configuration is
defined on a first wall panel assembly 10, the second wall surface
configuration is defined on
a second wall panel assembly 10, and each one of the third wall surface
configuration and
the fourth wall surface configuration is on a third wall panel assembly 10.
[00371] In some embodiments, for example, each one of the first wall
surface
configuration and the third wall surface configuration is defined on a first
wall panel assembly
10, and each one of the second wall surface configuration and the fourth wall
surface
configuration is on a second wall panel assembly 10.
[00372] In some embodiments, for example, the first wall surface
configuration is
defined on a first wall panel assembly 10, the second wall surface
configuration is defined on
a second wall panel assembly 10, the third wall surface configuration is
defined on a third
wall panel assembly 10, and the fourth wall surface configuration is defined
on a fourth wall
panel assembly 10.
[00373] In some embodiments, for example, the first wall surface
configuration is
defined on a first wall panel assembly 10, the second wall surface
configuration and the third
wall surface configuration are defined on a second wall panel assembly 10, and
the fourth
wall surface configuration is defined on a third wall panel assembly 10.
82
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[00374] In some embodiments, for example, wherein at least two of the
first, second,
third, and fourth wall surface configurations are defined on the same panel,
two of the at
least two of the first, second, third, and fourth wall surface configurations
share a common
panel-defined connection counterpart 39. In some embodiments, for example,
wherein the
third wall surface configuration and the fourth wall surface configuration are
defined on the
same wall panel assembly 10, the third pair of panel-defined connection
counterparts 39 is
defined by a first panel-defined connection counterpart 39 and a second panel-
defined
connection counterpart 39, and the fourth pair of panel-defined connection
counterpart 39 is
defined by the first panel-defined connection counterpart 39 and a third panel-
defined
connection counterpart 39. In some embodiments, for example, wherein the third
wall
surface configuration and the fourth wall surface configuration are defined on
the same wall
panel assembly 10, the third pair of panel-defined connection counterparts 39
is defined by a
first panel-defined connection counterpart 39 and a second panel-defined
connection
counterpart 39, and the fourth pair of panel-defined connection counterpart 39
is defined by
the second panel-defined connection counterpart 39 and a third panel-defined
connection
counterpart 39.
[00375] Accordingly, if it is desirable to connect and secure the mounting
assembly
500 to a wall surface configuration having a first pair of panel-defined
connection
counterparts 39 spaced apart by a first spacing distance, and also having a
second pair of
panel-defined connection counterparts 39 spaced apart by a second spacing
distance but
the spacing between the first connection counterpart 504 and the second
connection
counterpart 508 is not adjustable to correspond to the first and second
spacing distances
between the first and second pairs of panel-defined connection counterparts
39, the
connection counterpart-defining configuration 506 can be decoupled from the
bracket 502,
and the connection counterpart-defining configuration 506A can be coupled to
the bracket
502, to define the assembly 500A, such that the spacing between the connection

counterparts 504 and 508 can be adjusted to correspond to the spacing
distances between
the first and second pair of panel-defined connection counterparts 39, for
connecting and
securing the assembly 500A to the first and pairs of panel-defined connection
counterparts
39. In this respect, the same bracket 502 and locking mechanism 520 (e.g.
rotatable head
520A and threaded stud) are used, and different embodiments of the connection
counterpart-defining configuration 506, having different lengths of the
intermediate member
507, can be connected to the bracket 502 via the locking mechanism 520 to
connect to the
desired pair of panel-defined connection counterparts 39.
83
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[00376] Figure 41 to Figure 44 depict a mounting assembly 500B that is an
alternate
embodiment of the mounting assembly 500 and mounting assembly 500A. The
mounting
assembly 500B substantially corresponds to the mounting assembly 500 and
mounting
assembly 500A, except: 1) the bracket 502A of the mounting assembly 500B
includes a slot
524A that is longer than the slot 524 of the mounting assembly 500 and
mounting assembly
500A, and 2) the intermediate member 507B of the connection counterpart-
defining
configuration 506B is shorter than the intermediate member 507 of the
connection
counterpart-defining configuration 506 of the mounting assembly 500, and also
shorter than
the intermediate member 507A of the connection counterpart-defining
configuration 506A of
the mounting assembly 500A.
[00377] As depicted, the slot 524A is longer than the slot 524 of the
mounting
assembly 500 and mounting assembly 500A. The slot 524A extends from the bottom
of the
flange 503A to substantially the top of the flange 503A. In some embodiments,
for example,
the length of the slot 524A is generally the length of the flange 503A.
[00378] As depicted, the intermediate member 507B of the connection
counterpart-
defining configuration 506B is relatively short. In some embodiments, for
example, the
length of the intermediate member is 0.75 inches.
[00379] The increase in length of the slot 524A, and the decrease in length
of the
intermediate member 507B, is with effect that the minimum spacing distance
between the
first connection counterpart 504 and the second connection counterpart 508, of
the mounting
assembly 500B, is reduced, relative to the minimum spacing distance between
the first
connection counterpart 504 and the second connection counterpart 508, of the
mounting
assembly 500, and also of the mounting assembly 500A. In some embodiments, for

example, the minimum spacing distance between the first connection counterpart
504 and
the second connection counterpart 508 is defined while the assembly 500B is
disposed in
the retracted configuration, as depicted in Figure 41 and Figure 42. In some
embodiments,
for example, the minimum spacing distance between the first connection
counterpart 504
and the second connection counterpart 508 has a minimum value of 1 inch.
[00380] The decrease in length of the intermediate member 507B, is with
effect that
the maximum spacing distance between the first connection counterpart 504 and
the second
connection counterpart 508, of the mounting assembly 500B, is reduced,
relative to the
maximum spacing distance between the first connection counterpart 504 and the
second
connection counterpart 508, of the mounting assembly 500, and also of the
mounting
assembly 500A. In some embodiments, for example, the maximum spacing distance
84
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

between the first connection counterpart 504 and the second connection
counterpart 508 is
defined while the assembly 500B is disposed in the extended configuration, as
depicted in
Figure 43 and Figure 44. In some embodiments, for example, the maximum spacing

distance between the first connection counterpart 504 and the second
connection
counterpart 508 has a maximum value of 6 inches.
[00381] Figure 45 to Figure 48 depict a mounting assembly 500C that is an
alternate
embodiment of the mounting assembly 500B. The mounting assembly 500C
substantially
corresponds to the mounting assembly 500B, except the intermediate member 507C
of the
connection counterpart-defining configuration 506C is longer than the
intermediate member
507B of the connection counterpart-defining configuration 506B of the mounting
assembly
500B.
[00382] As depicted, the intermediate member 507C of the connection
counterpart-
defining configuration 506C is relatively long. In some embodiments, for
example, the length
of the intermediate member is 7 inches.
[00383] The increase in length of the intermediate member 507C, is with
effect that
the minimum spacing distance between the first connection counterpart 504 and
the second
connection counterpart 508, of the mounting assembly 500C, is increased,
relative to the
maximum spacing distance between the first connection counterpart 504 and the
second
connection counterpart 508, of the mounting assembly 500B. In some
embodiments, for
example, the minimum spacing distance between the first connection counterpart
504 and
the second connection counterpart 508 is defined while the assembly 500C is
disposed in
the retracted configuration, as depicted in Figure 45 and Figure 46. In some
embodiments,
for example, the minimum spacing distance between the first connection
counterpart 504
and the second connection counterpart 508 has a minimum value of 8 inches.
[00384] The increase in length of the intermediate member 507C, is with
effect that
the maximum spacing distance between the first connection counterpart 504 and
the second
connection counterpart 508, of the mounting assembly 500C, is increased,
relative to the
maximum spacing distance between the first connection counterpart 504 and the
second
connection counterpart 508, of the mounting assembly 500B. In some
embodiments, for
example, the maximum spacing distance between the first connection counterpart
504 and
the second connection counterpart 508 is defined while the assembly 500C is
disposed in
the extended configuration, as depicted in Figure 47 and Figure 48. In some
embodiments,
for example, the maximum spacing distance between the first connection
counterpart 504
and the second connection counterpart 508 has a maximum value of 12 inches.
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[00385] In some embodiments, for example, the mounting assembly 500C can be

assembled from the mounting assembly 500B by decoupling the connection
counterpart-
defining configuration 506B from the bracket 502A, and coupling the connection
counterpart-
defining configuration 506C to the bracket 502A, similar to the manner by
which the
mounting assembly 500A can be assembled from the mounting assembly 500.
[00386] In some embodiments, for example, a kit for a mounting assembly
configured
to be connected to a first wall surface configuration having a first pair of
panel-defined
connection counterparts 39 spaced apart by a first spacing distance, and
further configured
to be connected to a second wall surface configuration having a second pair of
panel-
defined connection counterparts 39 spaced apart by a second spacing distance
includes a
bracket described herein, for example, the bracket 502 or the bracket 502A,
and further
includes one of the connection counterpart-defining configurations described
herein, for
example, one of the connection counterpart-defining configuration 506, the
connection
counterpart-defining configuration 506A, connection counterpart-defining
configuration 506B,
and connection counterpart-defining configuration 506C.
[00387] In some embodiments, for example, a kit for a mounting assembly
configured
to be connected to: 1) a first wall surface configuration having a first pair
of panel-defined
connection counterparts spaced apart by a first spacing distance, 2) a second
wall surface
configuration having a second pair of panel-defined connection counterparts
spaced apart
by a second spacing distance, 3) a third wall surface configuration having a
third pair of
panel-defined connection counterparts spaced apart by a third spacing
distance, and 4) a
fourth wall surface configuration having a fourth pair of panel-defined
connection
counterparts spaced apart by a fourth spacing distance, includes a bracket
described herein,
for example, the bracket 502 or the bracket 502A, and further includes two or
more of the
connection counterpart-defining configurations described herein, for example,
two or more of
the connection counterpart-defining configuration 506, the connection
counterpart-defining
configuration 506A, connection counterpart-defining configuration 506B, and
connection
counterpart-defining configuration 506C.
[00388] In some embodiments, for example, it is desirable to secure a
mounting
assembly, for example, the mounting assembly 500 to 500C as described herein,
to the
lowermost panel 100 of the wall panel assembly 10. As described herein, in
some
embodiments, for example, such securement of the mounting assembly 500 is
effected by
hanging the mounting assembly 500 from the cavity 130 of the lowermost panel
100, and
establishing abutting engagement between the connecting member 544 of the
mounting
assembly 500 with the terminal end of the interacting portion 60 of the
lowermost panel 100.
86
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

In such embodiments, for example, there is an absence of abutment of the
retaining surface
542 of the second connection counterpart 508 with a surface, such as a
retaining surface
134 of a panel. In some embodiments, for example, it is desirable for the
securing of the
mounting assembly 500 to the lowermost panel 100 to include establishment of
abutting
engagement of the retaining surface 542 with a surface, to improve the
securing of the
mounting assembly 500 of the lowermost panel 100, and to oppose, for example,
prevent,
rotation of the mounting assembly 500, relative to the panel 100. By opposing,
for example,
preventing, rotation of the mounting assembly 500, relative to the panel 100,
the impacting of
the panel 100, by the mounting assembly 500, is opposed, for example,
prevented, and
sound that is generated by such impacting is opposed, for example, prevented.
Furthermore, in some embodiments, for example, as described herein, the
lowermost panel
100 is connectible to a trim 2300, to provide a clean and aesthetically
pleasing finish to the
connected trim 2300 and panel 100. In such embodiments, for example, it is
desirable to
secure a mounting assembly 500 to the lowermost panel 100, while a trim is
connected to
the lowermost panel 100, such that a load can be supported at the lowermost
portion of the
wall panel assembly 10, and also have a clean and aesthetically pleasing
finish.
[00389] In this respect, Figure 49 and Figure 50 depict a trim 5000 that is
an alternate
embodiment of the trim 2300. The trim 5000 is described herein as being
configured to
connect to a panel 100, but it is understood that the trim 5000 is configured
to connect to a
panel described herein, for example, the panel 100 to 100F, to conceal the
trim defined
configuration 5040 of the trim 5000, and provide a clean and aesthetically
pleasing finish to a
connected trim 5000 and panel. In some embodiments, for example, the trim 5000
is
connectible to the panel 100 that is the lowermost panel 100 of the wall panel
assembly, for
concealing the fastener that is connecting the trim 5000 to the wall 1. In
some
embodiments, for example, while the trim 5000 is connected to a panel, such
that a
connected trim and panel is established, the mounting assembly 500, or another
mounting
assembly described herein, is securable to the connected trim and panel.
[00390] In some embodiments, for example, the trim 5000 is connectible to
the panel
100, such that a connected trim and panel are established, for example, to
define a wall
panel assembly 10. In some embodiments, for example, the trim 5000 is
connected to a
mounting wall 1, for example, via a fastener 8, in a manner similar to the
manner by which a
panel 100 is connected to the mounting wall 1, as described herein, and then a
panel 100 is
connected to the trim 5000 that is connected to the wall 1, in a manner
similar to the manner
by which a panel 100 is connected to another panel 100, as described herein,
to define the
wall panel assembly 10. In some embodiments, for example, the trim 5000 is the
first
87
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

component of the wall panel assembly 10 that is connected to the mounting wall
1. In this
respect, in some embodiments, for example, the trim 5000 is a starter trim or
starter strip.
[00391] As depicted, the trim 5000 includes features similar to those of
the trim 2300.
[00392] In some embodiments, for example, similar to the trim 2300, the
trim 5000
includes a base 5001 that defines a rear-facing and wall-opposing surface 5006
that is
configured for opposing the wall 1 and being disposed in abutting engagement
with the wall
1 while the trim 5000 is secured to the wall 1.
[00393] Similar to the trim 2300, the trim 5000 includes a trim defined
configuration
5040 that substantially corresponds to the panel defined configuration 20 at
the first end 101
of the panel 100. In particular, the trim defined configuration 5040 includes
a trim-defined
connection system counterpart configuration 5002 that substantially
corresponds to the first
connection system counterpart configuration 30 of the panel 100. The trim 5000
and the
panel 100 are connectible via the trim-defined connection system counterpart
configuration
5002 and the second connection system counterpart configuration 50 of the
panel 100. The
trim 5000 is connectible to a panel 100 in a manner substantially similar to
the manner by
which the connection between adjacent panels, in the wall panel assembly, is
established,
as described herein.
[00394] Similar to the trim 2300, as depicted, the trim-defined connection
system
counterpart configuration 5002 includes a trim defined first connection system
counterpart
5024 (e.g. a notch 5024) of the first connection system 32, substantially
corresponding to the
first connection system counterpart 110 (e.g. the notch 124) of the first
connection system
counterpart 32, of the panel 100, and configured to co-operate with the second
connection
system counterpart 158 (e.g. the projection 158) of the first connection
system 32 of the
panel 100 for snap fit engagement, and further configured to co-operate with
the second
connection system counterpart 158 (e.g. the projection 158) of the first
connection system
32, of the panel 100, such that displacement of the panel 100, away from the
trim 5000,
along an axis that is: (i) parallel to the wall surface 12 or the front facing
surface 104, and (ii)
perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 2 (e.g. the axis of extrusion) of the
panel or the trim, is
opposed, for example, prevented (e.g. to oppose, for example, prevent, pulling
of the panel
100 away from the trim 5000).
[00395] Similar to the trim 2300, the trim-defined connection system
counterpart
configuration 5002 further includes a trim defined first connection system
counterpart 5014
(e.g. a projection 5014) of the second connection system 34 substantially
corresponding to
88
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

the first connection system counterpart 114 (e.g. the projection 114) of the
second
connection system 34, of the panel 100. The trim defined first connection
system
counterpart 5014 includes an urging surface 5015, which substantially
corresponds to the
urging surface 115 of the projection 114 of the panel 100. The trim defined
first connection
system counterpart 5014 is configured to be received in the recess 164 of the
panel 100,
and further configured to co-operate with the second connection system
counterpart 160 of
the second connection system 34, of the panel 100, such that displacement of
the panel
100, away from the trim 5000, in a direction that is parallel to a normal axis
1041 of the front-
facing wall 104 of the panel 100, is opposed, for example, prevented (e.g. to
oppose, for
example, prevent, lifting of the panel 100 away from the trim 5000).
[00396] Similar to the trim 2300, the trim defined configuration 5040
further includes a
fastener receiving portion 5016, including a fastener locator 5020 and a
fastener-engaging
surface 5018, substantially corresponding to the fastener receiving portion
116, for
emplacing a fastener in the fastener effective position to secure the trim
5000 to the wall 1.
To connect the trim 5000 to a wall 1, the trim 5000, for example, the rear
facing surface 5006
of the base 5001, is disposed in abutting engagement against the wall 1, the
fastener is
emplaced in the fastener effective position via the fastener locator 5020, and
penetrated
through the fastener-engaging surface 5018 of the trim 5000, and further
penetrated through
the wall-opposing surface 5006 until the fastener engages the wall 1, such
that the trim 5000
is coupled to the wall via the fastener 1.
[00397] Similar to the trim 2300, the trim defined configuration 5040
further defines a
recess 5026, substantially corresponding to the recess 126, and defined below
the projection
5014 and between projection 5014 and the fastener receiving portion 5016, that
is
configured to receive second connection system counterpart 160 of the second
connection
system 34, of the panel 100.
[00398] The trim 5000 and the panel 100 are co-operatively configured such
that,
while the connection between the trim 5000 and the panel 100 is established,
the covering
portion 154 is concealing the fastener that is connecting the trim 5000 to the
wall 1.
[00399] Similar to the trim 2300, in some embodiments, for example, the
trim 5000
includes an outermost end surface 5004 configured for being visible while the
trim 5000 is
connected to the panel 100. As depicted in Figure 49, in some embodiments, for
example,
the outermost end surface 5004 is perpendicular relative to the wall-opposing
surface 5006.
In some embodiments, for example, the outermost end surface 5004 includes a
continuous
surface that extends along the length of the trim 5000. In some embodiments,
for example,
89
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

the outermost end surface 5004 has a minimum surface area of at least 0.375
inches
squared. In some embodiments, for example, the visible surface of the
outermost end
surface 5004 has a minimum width or height of at least 1/8 inches. In some
embodiments,
for example, the visible surface of the outermost end surface 5004 has a
minimum length of
at least 3 inches.
[00400] Similar to the trim 2300, in some embodiments, for example, the
trim defined
configuration 5040 includes a wall member 5022, substantially correspond to an
outer wall
member of the retaining surface defining configuration 122. In some
embodiments, for
example, the wall member 5022 is a front-facing wall member. The wall member
5022
defines an outer surface 5023. In some embodiments, for example, the wall
member 5022 is
configured to support the covering portion 154 of the interacting portion 60
of the second
connection system counterpart configuration 50 of the panel 100 while the trim
5000 is
connected to the panel 100.
[00401] In some embodiments, for example, similar to the trim 2300, the
trim 5000
includes a front facing surface 5003. The front facing surface 5003 is
configured for being
visible while the trim 5000 is secured to the wall 1. In some embodiments, for
example, the
front facing surface 5003 includes: (i) the front facing surface portion of
the trim defined first
connection system counterpart 5014 (e.g. the projection 5014), (ii) the front
facing surface
portion of the fastener receiving portion 5016, for example, the fastener
locator 5020 and the
fastener-engaging surface 5018, and (iii) the outer surface 5023. In some
embodiments, for
example, the front facing surface defines the fastener receiving portion 5016.
[00402] In some embodiments, for example, the base 5001 is disposed,
relative to the
wall member 5022, on an opposite side of the trim 5000.
[00403] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 49, the
trim defined
first connection system counterpart 5024 (e.g. a notch 5024) of the first
connection system
32 is defined between the wall member 5022 and the outermost end surface 5004.
[00404] In some embodiments, for example, the outer surface 5023 and the
end
surface 5004 are disposed in a perpendicular relationship.
[00405] In some embodiments, for example, while the trim 5000 is connected
to the
panel 100, as depicted in Figure 51, the covering portion 154 of the panel 100
conceals at
least a portion of the trim-defined configuration 5040. In some embodiments,
for example,
while the trim 5000 is connected to the panel 100, the covering portion 154 of
the panel 100
conceals the entirety of the trim-defined configuration 5040. In some
embodiments, for
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

example, while the trim 5000 is connected to the panel 100, the covering
portion 154 of the
panel 100 conceals the fastener-receiving portion 5016 of the trim 5000, such
that a fastener
extending through the fastener-receiving portion 5016 is concealed by the
covering portion
154. Such concealment of the of the trim-defined configuration 5040, for
example, the trim
defined connection system counterpart configuration 5002, the fastener-
receiving portion
5016, and a fastener extending through the fastener-receiving portion 5016,
provides an
aesthetically pleasing appearance to the connected trim 5000 and the panel
100.
[00406] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 51, while
the trim
5000 is connected to the panel 100, the outermost surface 156 of the covering
portion 154 of
the panel 100 is perpendicular to the outermost end surface 5004 of the trim
5000.
[00407] In some embodiments, for example, while the trim 5000 is connected
to the
panel 100, the second connection system counterpart 158 (e.g. the rearward
projection 158)
of the first connection system 32, of the panel 100 is received in the trim
defined first
connection system counterpart 5024 (e.g. a notch 5024) of the first connection
system 32, of
the trim 5000, similar to the manner in which the second connection system
counterpart 158
(e.g. the rearward projection 158) of the first connection system 32, of a
panel 100 is
received in the first connection system counterpart 110 (e.g. the notch 124)
of the first
connection system counterpart 32, of an adjacent panel 100, while two panels
are
connected. In some embodiments, for example, while the trim 5000 is connected
to the
panel 100, the trim defined first connection system counterpart 5024 (e.g. the
notch 5024) of
the first connection system 32, of the trim 5000, and the second connection
system
counterpart 158 (e.g. the rearward projection 158) of the first connection
system 32, of the
panel 100 are configured for disposition in a relative movement interference
relationship, as
depicted in Figure 51, wherein, in the relative movement interference
relationship: 1) the
interacting portion 60 is disposed in the interference-effective
configuration, and 2) the trim
defined first connection system counterpart 5024 (e.g. the notch 5024) of the
first connection
system 32, of the trim 5000, and the second connection system counterpart 158
(e.g. the
rearward projection 158) of the first connection system 32, of the panel 100
are co-
operatively configured such that displacement of the panel 100, away from the
trim 5000,
along an axis that is: (i) parallel to the wall surface 12 or the front facing
surface 104, and (ii)
perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 2 (e.g. the axis of extrusion) of the
panel or the trim, is
opposed, for example, prevented (e.g. the notch 5024 and the projection 158 co-
operate to
oppose, for example, prevent, pulling apart of the panel 100 and the trim
5000), such that
defeating of the connection of the panel 100 and the trim 5000 is opposed
(e.g. prevented).
91
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[00408] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 51, while
the trim
5000 is connected to the panel 100, the projection 5014 is received in the
channel 164, and
the second connection system counterpart 160 of the second connection system
34 is
received in the recess 5026, similar to the manner in which the shoulder 114
is received in
the recess 164, and the second connection system counterpart 160 of the second
connection system 34 is received in the recess 126, while two panels are
connected. In
some embodiments, for example, while the projection 5014 is received in the
channel 164
and the second connection system counterpart 160 of the second connection
system 34 is
received in the recess 5026, the projection 5014 and the second connection
system
counterpart 160 are co-operatively configured such that displacement of the
panel 100, away
from the trim 5000, in a direction that is parallel to a normal axis of the
front-facing wall 104
of the panel 100, is opposed, for example, prevented (e.g. the projection 5014
and the and
the wall member 161 co-operate to oppose, for example, prevent, lifting of the
panel 100
away from the trim 5000), such that defeating of the connection of the panel
and trim is
opposed, for example, prevented.
[00409] In some embodiments, for example, while the connected trim 5000 and
panel
100 is connected to the wall 1, for example, via a fastener, the visible
portion of the
outermost surface 156 of the covering portion 154 is parallel to the surface
of the wall 1 on
which the connected trim 5000 and panel 100 is mounted. In some embodiments,
for
example, while the connected trim 5000 and panel 100 is connected to the wall
1, for
example, via a fastener, the visible portion of the outermost surface 156 of
the covering
portion 154 is parallel to the outermost surface 104 of the panel 100 to
provide an
aesthetically pleasing appearance.
[00410] In some embodiments, for example, while the trim 5000 is connected
to the
panel 100, the outermost surface 156 of the covering portion 154 of the panel
100 is
perpendicular to the outermost end surface 5004 of the trim 5000. In some
embodiments,
for example, while the trim 5000 is connected to the panel 100, the outermost
surface 156
and the outermost end surface 5004 appears to meet at a corner, for example, a
rounded
corner, as defined by a surface 159, for example a rounded surface 159, that
extends
between the outermost surface 156 of the covering portion 154 and an outermost
surface of
the tongue 158. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, while the
trim 5000 is
connected to the panel 100, the outermost surface 156, the projection 158, and
the
outermost end surface 5004 are co-operatively configured to provide an
aesthetically
pleasing appearance.
92
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[00411] In some embodiments, for example, while the trim 5000 is connected
to the
panel 100, the trim 5000 is disposed rearwardly of the covering portion 154.
In some
embodiments, for example, while the trim 5000 is connected to the panel 100,
the trim 5000
conceals the space rearwardly of the covering portion 154. In some
embodiments, for
example, while the trim 5000 is connected to the panel 100, the trim 5000
conceals the
recess 164 and at least a portion of the second connection system counterpart
160 of the
second connection system 34 of the panel 100, to provide an aesthetically
pleasing
appearance.
[00412] In some embodiments, for example, while the trim 5000 is connected
to the
panel 100 and the connected trim 5000 and panel 100 are connected to a wall 1,
the
outermost end surface 5004 of the trim 5000 is perpendicular to the surface of
the wall 1, to
provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance.
[00413] In some embodiments, for example, while the trim 5000 is connected
to the
panel 100, the wall-opposing surface 5006 of the trim 5000 and the wall-
opposing surface
106 of the panel 100 are co-planar, to provide an aesthetically pleasing
appearance.
[00414] In some embodiments, for example, the visible surface 15A of the
residual
front facing surface portion 15 and the visible surface 156 of the covering
portion 154 of the
panel 100 are co-planar while the trim 5000 and the panel 100 are connected,
to provide an
aesthetically pleasing appearance.
[00415] In some embodiments, for example, to defeat or release the
connection
between connected trim 5000 and panel 100, the interacting portion 60 is
transitioned from
the interference effective configuration to the interference ineffective
configuration. At this
point, the panel 100 is displaceable away from the trim 5000 in a direction
parallel to the
front facing surface 104, for example, along an axis that is: (i) parallel to
the wall surface 12
or the front-facing surface 104, and (ii) perpendicular to the longitudinal
axis 2 (e.g. the axis
of extrusion) of the panel 100 or the trim 5000 (e.g. the panel 100 can be
pulled away from
the trim 5000).
[00416] In some embodiments, for example, to defeat or release the
connection
between connected trim 5000 and panel 100, one of the trim 5000 and the panel
100 is
rotated relative to the other of the trim 5000 and the panel 100.
[00417] In some embodiments, for example, the trim 5000 further comprises a
recess
5050. In some embodiments, for example, the recess 5050 is defined by the trim
5000 such
that the recess 5050 is a trim-defined recess 5050.
93
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[00418] In some embodiments, for example, the trim 5000 is co-operable with
a panel
100 such that, while the trim 5000 and panel 100 are connected together, as
depicted in
Figure 51 to Figure 53, the cavity 130 of the panel 100 is disposed for
connection to a first
connection counterpart 504 of a mounting assembly 500, and the recess 5050 of
the trim
5000 is disposed for connection to a second connection counterpart 508 of the
mounting
assembly 500.
[00419] In some embodiments, for example, while the connected trim 5000 and
panel
100 is secured to a mounting wall 1, the trim-defined recess 5050 is
configured for co-
operation with the mounting assembly 500 such that, while the retained
configuration is
established, wherein the mounting assembly 500 is vertically supported by the
panel 100,
and displacement of the mounting assembly 500, relative to the connected trim
5000 and
panel 100, in a direction away from the mounting wall 1, is opposed, insertion
of the second
connection counterpart 508 into the recess 5050 is with effect that a
displacement-resistant
configuration is established, wherein, in the displacement-resistant
configuration,
displacement of the mounting assembly 500, relative to the connected trim and
panel, in a
direction away from the mounting wall 1, is opposed. In some embodiments, for
example
the displacement that is opposed includes rotation of the mounting assembly
500, relative to
the connected trim and panel, in a direction away from the mounting wall. in
this respect, in
some embodiments, for example, while the connected trim and panel is secured
to a
mounting wall, the recess 5050 is configured for co-operation with the
mounting assembly
500 such that, while the retained configuration is established, insertion of
the second
connection counterpart 508 into the recess 5050 is with effect that a rotation-
resistant
configuration is established, wherein, in the rotation-resistant
configuration, rotation of the
mounting assembly 500, relative to the connected trim and panel, in a
direction away from
the mounting wall 1, is opposed.
[00420] In some embodiments, for example, the recess 5050 is defined by a
cavity- or
recess-defining surface 5052.
[00421] In some embodiments, for example, the trim 5000 includes an
intermediate
member 5070 that is disposed between the front facing surface 5003 and the
base 5001.
The intermediate member 5070 is connected to the base 5001 at a joint 5080,
and extends
in a direction towards the front facing surface 5003. In some embodiments, for
example, the
base 5001 includes the joint 5080. In some embodiments, for example, the
recess-defining
surface 5052 includes an outer surface 5072 of the intermediate member 5070.
94
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[00422] In some embodiments, for example, the trim 5000 further comprises a

retaining surface defining configuration 5060, which defines a trim-defined
retaining surface
5062. The retaining surface defining configuration 5060 and the trim-defined
retaining
surface 5062 are substantially similar to the retaining surface-defining
configuration 122 and
the retaining surface 134. In some embodiments, for example, the retaining
surface defining
configuration 5060 and the trim-defined retaining surface 5062 functions in a
manner
substantially similar to the manner in which the retaining surface-defining
configuration 122
and the retaining surface 134 functions, at least with respect to the second
connection
counterpart 508 of the mounting assembly 500.
[00423] In some embodiments, for example, the retaining member 540 of the
second
connection counterpart 508 of the mounting assembly 500 is configured to co-
operate with
one of the connection counterparts 39 of the pair of first connection
counterparts 39 such
that, while the bracket 502 is connected to the wall panel assembly (e.g.
while the retained
configuration is established), insertion of the second connection counterpart
508 into one of
the connection counterparts 39, for example, the recess 5050 of the trim 5000,
the retaining
surface 542 is disposed in opposing relationship with a retaining surface of
the one of the
connection counterparts 39, for example, the retaining surface 5062 of the
trim 5000, of the
pair of panel-defined connection counterparts 39, such that displacement, for
example,
rotation, of the mounting bracket 502, away from the wall surface
configuration, is opposed.
[00424] In some embodiments, for example, in the displacement-resistant
configuration or rotation-resistant configuration, the rotation of the
mounting assembly 500,
relative to the wall panel assembly 10, in a direction away from the mounting
wall, is
opposed by the retaining surface 5062 of the trim 5000. In some embodiments,
for example,
in the displacement-resistant configuration or rotation-resistant
configuration, the retaining
surface 542 of the retaining member 540 is disposed in abutting engagement
with the
retaining surface 5062 of the trim 5000.
[00425] In some embodiments, for example, while the displacement-resistant
configuration or rotation-resistant configuration is established, the
retaining surface-defining
configuration 5060 is disposed within the channel 509 of the second connection
counterpart
508 of the mounting assembly 500, as depicted in Figure 52. In some
embodiments, for
example, while the displacement-resistant configuration or rotation-resistant
configuration is
established, a portion of the interacting portion 60, for example, the second
connection
system counterpart 158 (e.g. the projection 158) of the second connection
system 34, is
disposed within the channel 509 of the second connection counterpart 508 of
the mounting
assembly 500.
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[00426] In some embodiments, for example, the trim-defined recess 5050 is
disposed
rearwardly of the trim-defined retaining surface configuration 5060, for
example, rearwardly
of the trim-defined retaining surface 5062. In some embodiments, for example,
the recess
5050 is disposed between the retaining surface defining configuration 5060 and
the base
5001.
[00427] In some embodiments, for example, the recess-defining surface 5052
includes the trim-defined retaining surface 5062.
[00428] In some embodiments, for example, the wall member 5022 is defined
by the
retaining surface defining configuration 5060.
[00429] In some embodiments, for example, the trim defined first connection
system
counterpart 5024 is defined by the retaining surface defining configuration
5060.
[00430] In some embodiments, for example, the outermost end surface 5004 is

defined by the retaining surface defining configuration 5060, for example, the
terminal end of
the retaining surface defining configuration 5060.
[00431] In some embodiments, for example, the front facing surface 5003
includes the
front facing surface portion of the retaining surface defining configuration
5060.
[00432] To connect the assembly 500 to a connected trim 5000 and panel 100,
which,
in some embodiments, for example, is secured to a mounting wall 1, as depicted
in Figure
52 and Figure 53, the spacing of the first connection counterpart 504 and the
second
connection counterpart 508 is adjusted to correspond to the spacing distance
between a pair
of connection counterparts 39, the pair of connection counterparts 39
including a cavity 130
of the panel 100 and a recess 5050 of the trim 5000, wherein the cavity 130 is
disposed
above the recess 5050 while the connected trim and panel is connected to a
wall 1. Then,
the first connection counterpart 504 is inserted into the cavity 130 and
rotated, relative to the
connected trim 5000 and panel 100, to retain the bracket 502 to the connected
trim 5000
and panel 100, such that the retained configuration is established, as
described herein. At
this point, the bracket 502 is hanging from the connected trim 5000 and panel
100, wherein
the bracket 502 is vertically supported by the panel 100, and displacement of
the bracket
502, relative to the connected trim 5000 and panel 100, in a direction that is
normal to the
outermost surface of the connected trim 5000 and panel 100, is opposed. To
secure the
assembly 500 to the connected trim 5000 and panel 100, the displacement-
resistant
configuration, for example, the rotation-resistant configuration, is
established. To establish
the displacement-resistant configuration or rotation-resistant configuration,
the second
96
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

connection counterpart 508 is disposed into the recess 5050, as depicted in
Figure 52, and
the spacing of the first connection counterpart 504 and the second connection
counterpart
508, while the first connector counterpart 504 is disposed in the cavity 130
and the second
connection counterpart 508 is disposed in the recess 5050, is adjusted, for
example,
decreased, such that the mounting assembly 500 is gripping the connected trim
5000 and
panel 100. In some embodiments, for example, the adjusting of the spacing
between the
first connection counterpart 504 and the second connection counterpart 508 to
grip the
connected trim 5000 and panel 100 is with effect that the second connection
counterpart
508, for example, the retaining surface 542 of the retaining member 540,
becomes disposed
in abutting engagement with the retaining surface 5062 of the trim 5000. In
some
embodiments, for example, the adjusting of the spacing between the first
connection
counterpart 504 and the second connection counterpart 508 to grip the
connected trim 5000
and panel 100 is with effect that: 1) at least a portion of the retaining
surface defining
configuration 5060 of the trim 5000, and 2) at least a portion of the
interacting portion 60 of
the panel 100, are disposed in the channel 509 of the second connection
counterpart 508. In
this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the panel-defined connection
counterpart
39 includes the retaining surface defining configuration 5060 of the trim
5000, and, in some
embodiments, for example, the panel-defined connection counterpart 39 includes
the
interacting portion 60 of the panel 100. In some embodiments, for example,
while the first
connection counterpart 504 is disposed in the cavity 130, such that the
retained
configuration is established, the first connection counterpart 504, the
guiding surface 136,
and the retaining surface 134 of the panel 100 are co-operatively configured
to oppose, for
example, prevent, forwardly or rearwardly displacement of the first connection
counterpart
504, in a direction parallel to a normal axis of the front facing surface 104,
for example, while
the spacing between the first connection counterpart 504 and the second
connection
counterpart 508 is being adjusted. In some embodiments, for example, while the

displacement-resistant configuration or rotation-resistant configuration is
established, for
example, while the second connection counterpart 508 is disposed in the recess
5050, and
while the retaining surface defining configuration 5060 is disposed in the
channel 509, the
second connection counterpart 508, for example, the retaining surface 542 of
the retaining
member 540, and the retaining surface defining configuration 5060 of the trim
5000 co-
operate to oppose, for example, prevent, forwardly or rearwardly displacement
of the second
connection counterpart 508, in a direction parallel to a normal axis of the
front facing surface
104. In some embodiments, for example, while the displacement-resistant
configuration or
rotation-resistant configuration is established, for example, while the second
connection
counterpart 508 is disposed in the recess 5050, and while the retaining
surface defining
configuration 5060 of the trim 5000 is disposed in the channel 509, the second
connection
97
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

counterpart 508, for example, the retaining surface 542 of the retaining
member 540, and the
retaining surface 5062 of the trim 5000 co-operate to oppose, for example,
prevent, rotation
of the assembly 500, for example, the bracket 502, relative to the connected
trim 5000 and
panel 100, in the direction away from the connected trim 5000 and panel 100.
At this point,
while the assembly 500 is gripping the connected trim 5000 and panel 100, the
assembly
500 is transitioned from the adjustable configuration to the fixed
configuration, for example,
via actuation of the locking mechanism 520, to secure the assembly 500 to the
connected
trim 5000 and panel 100. In some embodiments, for example, while the assembly
500 is
secured to the wall panel assembly 10, a load that is supported by the load
supporter 530 is
supported by the connected trim 5000 and panel 100 via the assembly 500 that
is secured to
the connected trim 5000 and panel 100, and is further supported by the wall 1,
on which the
connected trim 5000 and panel 100 is secured. In some embodiments, for
example, while
the assembly 500 is secured to the connected trim 5000 and panel 100, rotation
of the
assembly 500, for example, the bracket 502, relative to the connected trim
5000 and panel
100, is opposed, for example, prevented. In some embodiments, for example, by
opposing,
for example, preventing, rotation of the assembly 500, for example, the
bracket 502 relative
to the connected trim 5000 and panel 100, the securing of the assembly 500 to
the
connected trim 5000 and panel 100 secures the retention of the assembly 500 to
the wall
connected trim 5000 and panel 100, and opposes, for example, prevents,
disconnection, for
example, accidental disconnection, of the assembly 500 from the connected trim
5000 and
panel 100.
[00433] In some embodiments, for example, while the first connection
counterpart 504
and the second connection counterpart 508 are gripping the connected trim 5000
and panel
100, the spacing between the first connection counterpart 504 and the second
connection
counterpart 508 is such that the assembly 500 is disposed in the intermediate
configuration.
[00434] In some embodiments, for example, the hanging and securing of the
assembly 500 to the connected trim 5000 and panel 100 or the panel 100 is
effectible
without the use of fasteners, for example, mechanical fasteners.
[00435] In some embodiments, for example, to release the assembly 500 from
the
connected trim 5000 and panel 100, the assembly 500 is transitioned from the
fixed
configuration to the adjustable configuration, for example, via actuation of
the locking
mechanism 520, and the spacing between the first connection counterpart 504
and the
second connection counterpart 508 is adjusted, for example, increased, such
that the
assembly 500 is no longer gripping the connected trim 5000 and panel 100,
there is an
absence of establishment of the displacement-resistant configuration or
rotation-resistant
98
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

configuration, and the assembly 500 is rotatable relative to the connected
trim 5000 and
panel 100. At this point, the assembly 500 is released from retention from the
connected
trim 5000 and panel 100, for example, by rotating the bracket connector 504
via rotation of
the bracket 502 away from the connected trim 5000 and panel 100, and
displacing the
assembly 500 from the cavity 130 of the panel 100. In some embodiments, for
example,
while the assembly 500 is released from the connected trim 5000 and panel 100,
the
assembly 500 is repositionable to another part of the connected trim 5000 and
panel 100
and connectible to the connected trim 5000 and panel 100 at said another part
of the
connected trim 5000 and panel 100, or is repositionable to another connected
trim 5000 and
panel 100 and connectible to said another connected trim 5000 and panel 100,
or is
repositionable to another part of the wall panel assembly 10 and connectible
to the wall
panel assembly 10 at said another part of the wall panel assembly 10.
[00436] The assembly 500 can be hung, retained, and secured to a connected
trim
5000 and panel 100, wherein the panel 100 of the connected trim 5000 and panel
100
includes more than one cavity 130.
[00437] In some embodiments, for example, the trim 5000 is configured for
co-
operation with the mounting wall 1 such that the trim 5000 and the mounting
wall 1 are
configurable for disposition in an installation-effective relationship, as
depicted in Figure 54,
wherein, in the installation-effective relationship, the trim 5000 is disposed
in an installation-
ready configuration. As depicted, while the trim 5000 is disposed in the
installation-ready
configuration: (i) the rear facing surface 5006, for example, the entirety of
the rear facing
surface 5006, is disposed in abutting engagement with the mounting wall 1,
(ii) the fastener
receiving portion 5016 is co-operable with a fastener 8, for example, a
mechanical fastener,
for effectuating connection of the end trim to the mounting wall, such that
the trim 5000 is co-
operable with the fastener 8 for effectuating connection of the trim 5000 to
the mounting wall
with the fastener, and (iii) the trim-defined connection system counterpart
configuration
5002, which includes the trim defined first connection system counterpart 5024
(e.g. a notch
5024) of the first connection system 32, and the trim defined first connection
system
counterpart 5014 (e.g. a projection 5014) of the second connection system 34,
is disposed,
relative to the mounting wall 1, such that, while the panel 100 is connected
to the trim 5000
via the trim-defined connection system counterpart configuration 5002 and the
second
connection system counterpart configuration 50 of the panel 100, the panel 100
is disposed
in force transfer communication with the mounting wall 1.
[00438] In some embodiments, for example, while the trim 5000 and the
mounting
wall 1 are disposed in the installation-effective relationship, the
disposition of the trim-defined
99
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

connection system counterpart configuration 5002, relative to the mounting
wall 1, is such
that, while the panel 100 is connected to the trim 5000 via the trim-defined
connection
system counterpart configuration 5002 and the second connection system
counterpart
configuration 50 of the panel 100, the panel 100 is disposed in abutting
engagement with the
mounting wall 1.
[00439] In some embodiments, for example, while the trim 5000 and the
mounting
wall are disposed in the installation-effective relationship, the disposition
of the trim-defined
connection system counterpart configuration 5002, relative to the mounting
wall 1, is such
that, while the panel 100 is connected to the trim 500 via the trim-defined
connection system
counterpart configuration 5002 and the second connection system counterpart
configuration
50 of the panel 100, the panel 100 is disposed, relative to the mounting wall
1, such that the
panel 100 is co-operable with a fastener 8, for example, via the fastener
receiving portion
116, for effectuating connection of the panel 100 to the mounting wall 1 with
the fastener.
[00440] In some embodiments, for example, while the trim 5000 and the
mounting
wall 1 are disposed in the installation-effective relationship, the trim 5000
is connectible to
the wall 1 via a fastener, as depicted in Figure 54. To connect the trim 5000
to the wall 1, an
operator, for example, an installer, applies a retaining force to the trim
5000, for example, to
the front facing surface 5003 of the trim 5000, to retain the trim 5000 in the
installation-ready
configuration, while the operator aligns the fastener via the fastener-
receiving portion 5016.
In some embodiments, for example, the retaining force is applied to a portion
of the front
facing surface 5003 that is disposed either one of upwardly, or downwardly,
relative to the
fastener receiving portion 5016 (e.g. either one of upwardly, or downwardly,
relative to the
fastener locator 5020). In response to the retaining force that is applied to
the portion of the
front facing surface 5003 that is disposed either one of upwardly, or
downwardly, relative to
the fastener receiving portion 5016, for effecting retention of the
disposition of the trim in the
installation-ready configuration, rotation of the trim 5000, about the base
5001, relative to the
mounting wall 1, is urged. In some embodiments, for example, the retaining
force is applied
to the trim-defined retaining surface defining configuration 5060, for
example, to the surface
5023. In response to the retaining force that is applied to the surface 5023,
which is
disposed downwardly of the fastener-receiving portion 5016, for effecting
retention of the
disposition of the trim in the installation-ready configuration, rotation of
the trim 5000, relative
to the mounting wall 1, about the joint 5080, is urged, as depicted in Figure
55.
[00441] In some embodiments, for example, the rotation of the trim 5000,
relative to
the mounting wall 1, about the base 5001, is effective for transitioning the
trim 5000 from the
installation-ready configuration, to an installation-ineffective
configuration, as depicted in
100
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

Figure 55. In the installation-ineffective configuration, the trim-defined
connection system
counterpart configuration 5002 is disposed, relative to the mounting wall 1,
such that, while
the panel 100 is connected to the trim 5000 via the trim-defined connection
system
counterpart configuration 5002 and the second connection system counterpart
configuration
50 of the panel 100, the panel 100 is disposed, relative to the mounting wall
1, such that
there is an absence of force transfer communication of the panel 100 with the
mounting wall
1, as depicted in Figure 56.
[00442] In some embodiments, for example, the rotation of the trim 5000,
relative to
the mounting wall 1, about the base 5001, that is urged by the retaining
force, is with effect
that the installation-ready configuration is defeated.
[00443] In some embodiments, for example, the rotation of the trim 5000,
relative to
the mounting wall 1, about the base 5001, for example, the joint 5080, that is
urged by the
retaining force, is with effect that displacement of the trim-defined
retaining surface defining
configuration 5060, relative to the mounting wall 1, in a direction towards
the mounting wall
1, is urged. In some embodiments, for example, the rotation of the trim 5000,
relative to the
mounting wall 1, about the base 5001, that is urged by the retaining force, is
with effect that
displacement of the trim defined first connection system counterpart 5014
(e.g. a projection
5014), relative to the mounting wall 1, in a direction towards the mounting
wall 1, is urged. In
some embodiments, for example, the rotation of the trim 5000, relative to the
mounting wall
1, about the base 5001, that is urged by the retaining force, is with effect
that the abutting
engagement of the rear facing surface 5006, for example, the entirety of the
rear facing
surface 5006, with the mounting wall 1, is defeated.
[00444] In some embodiments, for example, while an operator is applying a
retaining
force to the trim 5000, to retain the trim 5000 in the installation-ready
configuration, it is
desirable for there to be an absence of rotation of the trim 5000 about the
base 5001,
relative to the mounting wall 1, and therefore, an absence of defeating of the
installation-
ready configuration, for example, via transitioning of the trim 5000 from the
installation-
ineffective configuration to the installation-ineffective configuration.
[00445] In this respect, Figure 57 and Figure 58 depict a trim 5700 that is
an alternate
embodiment of the trim 5000. Similar to the trim 5000, the trim 5700 is
configured to connect
to a panel described herein, for example, the panel 100 to 100F, to conceal
the trim defined
configuration 5040 of the trim 5700, and provide a clean and aesthetically
pleasing finish to a
connected trim 5700 and panel 100. In some embodiments, for example, the trim
5700 is
connectible to the panel 100 that is the lowermost panel 100 of the wall panel
assembly, for
101
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

concealing the fastener that is connecting the trim 5700 to the wall 1. In
some
embodiments, for example, while the trim 5700 is connected to a panel, such
that a
connected trim and panel is established, the mounting assembly 500 is
securable to the
connected trim 5700 and panel, as depicted in Figure 61 and Figure 62, in a
manner similar
to the manner by which the mounting assembly 500 is securable to the connected
trim 5000
and panel.
[00446] In some embodiments, for example, the trim 5700 is connectible to
the panel
100, such that a connected trim and panel are established, as depicted in
Figure 61 and
Figure 62, for example, to define a wall panel assembly 10. In some
embodiments, for
example, the trim 5700 is connected to a mounting wall 1, for example, via a
fastener 8, as
depicted in Figure 60, in a manner similar to the manner by which a panel 100
is connected
to the mounting wall 1, as described herein, and then a panel 100 is connected
to the trim
5700 that is connected to the wall 1, in a manner similar to the manner by
which a panel 100
is connected to another panel 100, as described herein, to define the wall
panel assembly
10, as depicted in Figure 61. In some embodiments, for example, the trim 5700
is the first
component of the wall panel assembly 10 that is connected to the mounting wall
1. In this
respect, in some embodiments, for example, the trim 5700 is a starter trim or
starter strip.
[00447] As depicted, similar to the trim 5000, the trim 5700 comprises the
base 5001
and rear facing surface 5006, the trim defined configuration 5040, which
includes the trim-
defined connection system counterpart configuration 5002 (which includes the
trim defined
first connection system counterpart 5024 (e.g. a notch 5024) of the first
connection system
32 and the trim defined first connection system counterpart 5014 (e.g. a
projection 5014) of
the second connection system 34), the fastener receiving portion 5016 that
includes the
fastener-engaging surface 5018 and the fastener locator 5020, the recess 5026,
the
outermost end surface 5004, the wall member 5022 and surface 5023, the recess
5050, the
intermediate member 5070 that extends from the base 5001 at the joint 5080 and
defining
an outer surface 5072, the retaining surface defining configuration 5060, and
the front facing
surface 5003.
[00448] The trim 5700 substantially corresponds to the trim 5000, except at
least a
portion of the base 5001 of the trim 5700 is disposed rearwardly of the
retaining surface
defining configuration 5060, and also disposed rearwardly of the recess 5050.
In some
embodiments, for example, the recess 5050 is disposed between the retaining
surface
defining configuration 5060 and the base 5001 of the trim 5700.
102
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[00449] Similar to the trim 5000, the trim 5700 is configured for co-
operation with a
panel 100 such that the trim 5700 is connectible to the panel 100, such that
the connected
trim and panel is established. The trim 5700 and the panel 100 are connectible
via the trim-
defined connection system counterpart configuration 5002 and the second
connection
system counterpart configuration 50 of the panel 100. The trim 5700 is
connectible to a
panel 100 in a manner substantially similar to the manner by which the
connection between
adjacent panels, in the wall panel assembly, is established, as described
herein.
[00450] In some embodiments, for example, the trim 5700 is co-operable with
a panel
100 such that, while the trim 5700 and panel 100 are connected together, as
depicted in
Figure 61 to Figure 63, the cavity 130 of the panel 100 is disposed for
connection to a first
connection counterpart 504 of a mounting assembly 500, and the recess 5050 of
the trim
5700 is disposed for connection to a second connection counterpart 508 of the
mounting
assembly 500.
[00451] While: (i) the connected trim 5700 and panel 100 is secured to a
mounting
wall 1, and (ii) the mounting assembly 500 is connected to the panel 100 (e.g.
the retaining
configuration is established): the trim-defined recess 5050 is configured for
co-operation with
the mounting assembly 500 such that, insertion of the second connection
counterpart 508
into the trim-defined recess 5050 is with effect that a displacement-resistant
configuration is
established, as depicted in Figure 62 and Figure 63, wherein, in the
displacement-resistant
configuration, the trim-defined retaining surface 5062 is opposing
displacement of the
mounting assembly 500, relative to the connected trim 5700 and panel 100, in a
direction
away from the mounting wall 1. In some embodiments, for example, the
displacement that is
opposed includes rotation of the mounting assembly 500, relative to the
connected trim 5700
and panel 100, in a direction away from the mounting wall 1. In this respect,
the
displacement-resistant configuration is a rotation-resistant configuration.
[00452] Similar to the trim 5000, the trim 5700 is configured for co-
operation with the
mounting wall 1 such that the trim 5700 and the mounting wall 1 are
configurable for
disposition in an installation-effective relationship, as depicted in Figure
59, wherein, in the
installation-effective relationship, the trim 5700 is disposed in an
installation-ready
configuration. As depicted, while the trim 5700 is disposed in the
installation-ready
configuration: (i) the rear facing surface 5006, for example, the entirety of
the rear facing
surface 5006, is disposed in abutting engagement with the mounting wall 1,
(ii) the fastener
receiving portion 5016 is co-operable with a fastener 8, for example, a
mechanical fastener,
for effectuating connection of the end trim to the mounting wall, such that
the trim 5700 is co-
operable with the fastener 8 for effectuating connection of the trim 5700 to
the mounting wall
103
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

with the fastener, and (iii) the trim-defined connection system counterpart
configuration
5002, which includes the trim defined first connection system counterpart 5024
(e.g. a notch
5024) of the first connection system 32, and the trim defined first connection
system
counterpart 5014 (e.g. a projection 5014) of the second connection system 34,
is disposed,
relative to the mounting wall 1, such that, while the panel 100 is connected
to the trim 5700
via the trim-defined connection system counterpart configuration 5002 and the
second
connection system counterpart configuration 50 of the panel 100, the panel 100
is disposed
in force transfer communication with the mounting wall 1. In some embodiments,
for
example, while the trim 5700 is disposed in the installation-ready
configuration, the trim 5700
is co-operable with a fastener 8 for effectuating connection of the trim 5700
to the mounting
wall with the fastener.
[00453] In some embodiments, for example, the front facing surface 5003 and
the
base 5001 are co-operatively configured such that, while the rear facing
surface 5006 is
disposed in an abutting engagement with the mounting wall 1, for example,
while the trim
5700 and the mounting wall 1 are disposed in the installation-effective
relationship, in
response to a retaining force that is applied to a portion of the front facing
surface 5003,
disposed downwardly, relative to the fastener receiving portion 5016, there is
an absence of
rotation of the trim 5700, about the base 5001, relative to the mounting wall
1. The absence
rotation of the trim 5700, about the base 5001, relative to the mounting wall
1, is with effect
that there is an absence of defeating of the installation-ready configuration.
In this respect,
in some embodiments, for example, the absence of defeating of the installation-
ready
configuration is such that the installation-ready configuration is retained.
While there is an
absence rotation of the trim 5700, about the base 5001, relative to the
mounting wall 1, the
operator can align the fastener via the fastener-receiving portion 5016 to
connect the trim
5700 to the mounting wall 1 via the fastener 8, as depicted in Figure 60.
[00454] In some embodiments, for example, the retaining force that is
applied to a
portion of the front facing surface 5003, disposed downwardly, relative to the
fastener
receiving portion 5016, is applied to a portion of the front facing surface
5003 that disposed
downwardly, relative to the fastener locator 5020.
[00455] In some embodiments, for example, the front facing surface 5003 and
the
base 5001 are co-operatively configured such that, while the entirety of the
rear facing
surface 5006 is disposed in an abutting engagement with the mounting wall 1,
for example,
while the trim 5700 and the mounting wall 1 are disposed in the installation-
effective
relationship, in response to a retaining force that is applied to a portion of
the front facing
104
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

surface 5003, disposed downwardly, relative to the fastener receiving portion
5016, there is
an absence of rotation of the trim 5700, about the base 5001, relative to the
mounting wall 1.
[00456] In some embodiments, for example, the front facing surface 5003 and
the
base 5001 are co-operatively configured such that, while the rear facing
surface 5006 is
disposed in an abutting engagement with the mounting wall 1, for example,
while the trim
5700 and the mounting wall 1 are disposed in the installation-effective
relationship, in
response to a retaining force that is applied to the retaining surface
configuration 5060, as
depicted in Figure 59, for effecting retention of the disposition of the trim
5700 in the
installation-ready configuration, there is an absence of rotation of the trim
5700, about the
base 5001, for example, about the joint 5080, relative to the mounting wall 1,
such that, in
response to the retaining force, the disposition of the trim 5700, relative to
the mounting wall
1, in the installation-ready configuration, is retained. While the disposition
of the trim 5700,
relative to the mounting wall 1, in the installation-ready configuration, is
retained, the
operator can align the fastener via the fastener-receiving portion 5016 to
connect the trim
5700 to the mounting wall 1, as depicted in Figure 60.
[00457] In some embodiments, for example, in response to connection of a
panel 100
to the trim 5700 that is disposed in the installation-ready configuration, the
panel 100
becomes disposed in force transfer communication with the mounting wall 1. At
this point,
the panel 100 can be connected to the wall 1, for example, by a fastener 8.
Accordingly, a
load that is supported by the mounting assembly 500 that is secured to the
connected trim
5700 and panel 100 will be supported by the wall 1 via the disposition of the
panel 100 in
force transfer communication with the wall 1.
[00458] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 59, the
retaining
force has a direction that is perpendicular to an outer surface of the
mounting wall 1. In some
embodiments, for example, the retaining force has a component that has a
direction that is
perpendicular to an outer surface of the mounting wall 1. In some embodiments,
for
example, as depicted in Figure 59, the retaining force has a direction that is
perpendicular to
the surface 5023. In some embodiments, for example, the retaining force has a
component
that has a direction that is perpendicular to the surface 5023.
[00459] In some embodiments, for example, the front facing surface 5003 and
the
base 5001 are co-operatively configured such that, while the rear facing
surface 5006 is
disposed in an abutting engagement with the mounting wall 1, for example,
while the trim
5700 and the mounting wall 1 are disposed in the installation-effective
relationship, in
response to a retaining force that is applied to a portion of the front facing
surface 5003,
105
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

disposed downwardly, relative to the fastener receiving portion 5016, there is
an absence of
a moment arm defined between the retaining force and the base 5001, such that
there is the
absence of rotation of the trim 5700, relative to the mounting wall 1. In some
embodiments,
for example, the absence of the moment arm defined between the retaining force
and the
base 5001 is due to the base 5001 being disposed rearwardly of the front
facing surface
5003. In some embodiments, for example, the absence of the moment arm defined
between
the retaining force and the base 5001 is due to at least a portion of the base
5001 being
disposed rearwardly of the retaining surface defining configuration 5060, and
also disposed
rearwardly of the recess 5050.
[00460] In some embodiments, for example, the front facing surface 5003 and
the
base 5001 are co-operatively configured such that, while the rear facing
surface 5006 is
disposed in an abutting engagement with the mounting wall 1, for example,
while the trim
5700 and the mounting wall 1 are disposed in the installation-effective
relationship, in
response to a retaining force that is applied to a portion of the front facing
surface 5003,
disposed downwardly, relative to the fastener receiving portion 5016, there is
an absence of
generation of a moment of rotation about the base 5001, such that there is an
absence of
rotation of the trim 5700, about the base 5001, relative to the mounting wall
1, with effect that
there is an absence of defeating of the installation-ready configuration.
[00461] In some embodiments, for example, the front facing surface 5003 and
the
base 5001 are co-operatively configured such that, while the rear facing
surface 5006 is
disposed in an abutting engagement with the mounting wall 1, for example,
while the trim
5700 and the mounting wall 1 are disposed in the installation-effective
relationship, in
response to a retaining force that is applied to a portion of the front facing
surface 5003,
disposed upwardly, relative to the fastener receiving portion 5016, there is
an absence of
rotation of the trim 5700, about the base 5001, relative to the mounting wall
1. The absence
rotation of the trim 5700, about the base 5001, relative to the mounting wall
1, is with effect
that there is an absence of defeating of the installation-ready configuration.
In this respect,
in some embodiments, for example, the absence of defeating of the installation-
ready
configuration is such that the installation-ready configuration is retained.
While there is an
absence rotation of the trim 5700, about the base 5001, relative to the
mounting wall 1, the
operator can align the fastener via the fastener-receiving portion 5016 to
connect the trim
5700 to the mounting wall 1 via the fastener 8, as depicted in Figure 60.
[00462] In some embodiments, for example, the retaining force that is
applied to a
portion of the front facing surface 5003, disposed upwardly, relative to the
fastener receiving
106
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

portion 5016, is applied to a portion of the front facing surface 5003 that
disposed upwardly,
relative to the fastener locator 5020.
[00463] In some embodiments, for example, the front facing surface 5003 and
the
base 5001 are co-operatively configured such that, while the entirety of the
rear facing
surface 5006 is disposed in an abutting engagement with the mounting wall 1,
for example,
while the trim 5700 and the mounting wall 1 are disposed in the installation-
effective
relationship, in response to a retaining force that is applied to a portion of
the front facing
surface 5003, disposed upwardly, relative to the fastener receiving portion
5016, there is an
absence of rotation of the trim 5700, about the base 5001, relative to the
mounting wall 1.
[00464] In some embodiments, for example, the front facing surface 5003 and
the
base 5001 are co-operatively configured such that, while the rear facing
surface 5006 is
disposed in an abutting engagement with the mounting wall 1, for example,
while the trim
5700 and the mounting wall 1 are disposed in the installation-effective
relationship, in
response to a retaining force that is applied to a portion of the front facing
surface 5003,
disposed upwardly, relative to the fastener receiving portion 5016, for
effecting retention of
the disposition of the trim 5700 in the installation-ready configuration,
there is an absence of
rotation of the trim 5700, about the base 5001, relative to the mounting wall
1, such that, in
response to the retaining force, the disposition of the trim 5700, relative to
the mounting wall
1, in the installation-ready configuration, is retained. While the disposition
of the trim 5700,
relative to the mounting wall 1, in the installation-ready configuration, is
retained, the
operator can align the fastener via the fastener-receiving portion 5016 to
connect the trim
5700 to the mounting wall 1, as depicted in Figure 60.
[00465] In some embodiments, for example, the front facing surface 5003 and
the
base 5001 are co-operatively configured such that, while the rear facing
surface 5006 is
disposed in an abutting engagement with the mounting wall 1, for example,
while the trim
5700 and the mounting wall 1 are disposed in the installation-effective
relationship, in
response to a retaining force that is applied to a portion of the front facing
surface 5003,
disposed upwardly, relative to the fastener receiving portion 5016, there is
an absence of a
moment arm defined between the retaining force and the base 5001, such that
there is the
absence of rotation of the trim 5700, relative to the mounting wall 1. In some
embodiments,
for example, the absence of the moment arm defined between the retaining force
and the
base 5001 is due to the base 5001 being disposed rearwardly of the front
facing surface
5003. In some embodiments, for example, the absence of the moment arm defined
between
the retaining force and the base 5001 is due to at least a portion of the base
5001 being
107
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

disposed rearwardly of the portion of the front facing surface 5003 on which
the retaining
force is applied.
[00466] In some embodiments, for example, the front facing surface 5003 and
the
base 5001 are co-operatively configured such that, while the rear facing
surface 5006 is
disposed in an abutting engagement with the mounting wall 1, for example,
while the trim
5700 and the mounting wall 1 are disposed in the installation-effective
relationship, in
response to a retaining force that is applied to a portion of the front facing
surface 5003,
disposed upwardly, relative to the fastener receiving portion 5016, there is
an absence of
generation of a moment of rotation about the base 5001, such that there is an
absence of
rotation of the trim 5700, about the base 5001, relative to the mounting wall
1, with effect that
there is an absence of defeating of the installation-ready configuration.
[00467] In some embodiments, for example, the absence of rotation of the
trim 5700,
about the base 5001, relative to the mounting wall 1, is such that there is an
absence of
defeating of the abutting engagement of the rear facing surface 5006, for
example, the
entirety of the rear facing surface 5006, with the mounting wall 1.
[00468] As depicted in Figure 57, the base 5001 is defined by a first base
portion
5702 and a second base portion 5704. As depicted, the first base portion 5702
is disposed
rearwardly of the fastener-engaging surface 5018, and the second base portion
5704 is
disposed rearwardly of the retaining surface defining configuration 5060, and
also disposed
rearwardly of the recess 5050. In some embodiments, for example, the recess
5050 is
disposed between the retaining surface defining configuration 5060 and the
second base
portion 5704.
[00469] In some embodiments, for example, the first base portion 5702,
second base
portion 5704, and intermediate wall 5070 are connected at the joint 5080, with
the first base
portion 5702 and the second base portion 5704 disposed on opposite sides of
the
intermediate wall 5070. In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in
Figure 57, the
first base portion 5702 and the second base portion 5704 are disposed in
alignment. In
some embodiments, for example, the outermost surface of the first base portion
5702 and
the outermost surface of the second base portion 5704 are parallel. In some
embodiments,
for example, the outermost surface of the first base portion 5702 and the
outermost surface
of the second base portion 5704 are co-planar.
[00470] In some embodiments, for example, while the trim 5700 is disposed
in the
installation-ready configuration, the first base portion 5702 is disposed in
abutting
108
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

engagement with the mounting wall 1, and the second base portion 5704 is
disposed in
abutting engagement with the mounting wall 1. In some embodiments, for
example, while the
trim 5700 is disposed in the installation-ready configuration, at least a
portion of the first
base portion 5702 is disposed in abutting engagement with the mounting wall 1,
and at least
a portion of the second base portion 5704 is disposed in abutting engagement
with the
mounting wall 1. In some embodiments, for example, while the trim 5700 is
disposed in the
installation-ready configuration, the entirety of the first base portion 5702
is disposed in
abutting engagement with the mounting wall 1, and the entirety of the second
base portion
5704 is disposed in abutting engagement with the mounting wall 1.
[00471] In some embodiments, for example, while the trim 5700 is disposed
in the
installation-ready configuration, the one or more portions of the trim 5700
that are disposed
in abutting engagement with the mounting wall 1 define the base 5001 of the
trim 5700.
[00472] In some embodiments, for example, in response to the retaining
force that is
applied to the portion of the front facing surface 5003, disposed downwardly,
relative to the
fastener receiving portion 5016, for effecting retention of the disposition of
the trim 5700 in
the installation-ready configuration, there is an absence of rotation of the
trim 5700 about the
base 5001, relative to the mounting wall 1, due to the disposition of the
second base portion
5704 rearwardly of the retaining surface defining configuration 5060, and also
rearwardly of
the recess 5050, which is opposing, for example, preventing, the rotation of
the trim 5700
about the base 5001, relative to the mounting wall 1. In some embodiments, for
example,
there is an absence of a moment arm defined between the retaining force and
the base
5001, due to the disposition of the second base portion 5704 rearwardly of the
retaining
surface defining configuration 5060, and also rearwardly of the recess 5050.
[00473] In some embodiments, the extension of the second base portion 5704
from
the joint 5080 is such that the terminal end of the second base portion 5704
is disposed in
alignment with the trim defined first connection system counterpart 5024 (e.g.
a notch 5024).
In some embodiments, for example, the terminal end of the second base portion
5704 is
disposed in axial alignment with the trim defined first connection system
counterpart 5024
(e.g. a notch 5024), wherein the alignment axis is parallel to a normal axis
of the surface
5006.
[00474] In some embodiments, for example, in response to the retaining
force that is
applied to the portion of the front facing surface 5003, disposed upwardly,
relative to the
fastener receiving portion 5016, for effecting retention of the disposition of
the trim 5700 in
the installation-ready configuration, there is an absence of rotation of the
trim 5700 about the
109
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

base 5001, relative to the mounting wall 1, due to the disposition of the
first base portion
5702 rearwardly of the portion of the front facing surface 5003 on which the
retaining force is
applied, which is opposing, for example, preventing, the rotation of the trim
5700 about the
base 5001, relative to the mounting wall 1. In some embodiments, for example,
there is an
absence of a moment arm defined between the retaining force and the base 5001,
due to
the disposition of the first base portion 5702 rearwardly of the portion of
the front facing
surface 5003 on which the retaining force is applied.
[00475] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 64, the
base 5001
includes a base portion 5703 that extends from the intermediate wall 5790,
which co-
operates with the trim defined first connection system counterpart 5014 (e.g.
the projection
5014) to define the recess 5026, wherein the base portion 5703 and the base
portion 5702
are disposed on opposite sides of the intermediate wall 5790, and the base
portion 5703 is
disposed rearwardly of the trim defined first connection system counterpart
5014 (e.g. a
projection 5014), and also rearwardly of the recess 5026. The base 5001 and
the front
surface 5003 are co-operatively configured such that, in response to the
retaining force that
is applied to the portion of the front facing surface 5003, disposed upwardly,
relative to the
fastener receiving portion 5016 (e.g. applied to the trim defined first
connection system
counterpart 5014, for example, the projection 5014), for effecting retention
of the disposition
of the trim 5700 in the installation-ready configuration, there is an absence
of rotation of the
trim 5700 about the base 5001, relative to the mounting wall 1. The absence of
rotation of
the trim 5700 about the base 5001, relative to the mounting wall 1, is due to
the disposition
of the base portion 5703 rearwardly of the trim defined first connection
system counterpart
5014 (e.g. a projection 5014), which is opposing, for example, preventing, the
rotation of the
trim 5700 about the base 5001, relative to the mounting wall 1. In such
embodiments, for
example, the panel 100 defines a recess for receiving the base portion 5703
that extends
from the intermediate wall 5790, for effectuating connection of the panel 100
and the trim
5700.
[00476] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 57, the
trim 5700
includes a rear wall configuration 5710. The rear wall configuration 5710
comprises a first
wall 5712, which, in some embodiments, for example, is defined by the base
portion 5704, a
second wall 5714 disposed forwardly of the first wall 5712 and extending from
the
intermediate wall 5070, and an intermediate wall 5714 that extends between the
first wall
5712 and the second wall 5714. In some embodiments, for example, the first
wall 5712 and
the second wall 5714 are disposed in a non-parallel relationship, to improve
the structural
strength of the rear wall configuration 5710. In some embodiments, for
example, the first wall
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Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

5712 and the second wall 5714 substantially correspond to the first wall 72
and the second
wall 74 of the rear wall configuration 70, and co-operate to function like the
first wall 72 and a
second wall 74.
[00477] The rear wall configuration 5710 is configured to oppose, for
example,
prevent, bending of the first wall 5712, in response to application of the
retaining force to the
front facing surface 5003, such that the disposition of the second wall
portion 5704 in
abutting engagement with the mounting wall 1, while the trim 5700 is disposed
in the
installation-ready configuration, is retained. While the disposition of the
second wall portion
5704 in abutting engagement with the mounting wall 1 is retained, and while
the rear facing
surface 5006 is disposed in abutting engagement with the mounting wall 1, for
example,
while the trim 5700 is disposed in the installation-ready configuration, in
response to the
retaining force that is applied to the a front facing surface portion that is
disposed
downwardly of the fastener receiving portion 5016, for example, the outer
surface of the
retaining surface configuration 5060, for effecting retention of the
disposition of the trim 5700
in the installation-ready configuration, there is an absence of rotation of
the trim 5700, about
the base 5001, relative to the mounting wall 1, such that, in response to the
retaining force,
the disposition of the trim 5700, relative to the mounting wall 1, in the
installation-ready
configuration, is retained.
[00478] In some embodiments, for example, the recess-defining surface 5052
includes the outermost surface 57141 of the second wall 5714.
[00479] In some embodiments, for example, the trim 5700 includes a rear
wall
configuration that includes the base portion 5703 as depicted in Figure 64,
similar to the rear
wall configuration 5710, and configured to oppose, for example, prevent,
bending of the
base portion 5703, in response to application of the retaining force to the
front facing surface
5003.
[00480] Figure 65 and Figure 66 depict a trim 6300 that is an alternate
embodiment of
the trim 5700. The trim 6300 substantially corresponds to the trim 5700 and
functions in the
same manner, except the trim 6300 is manufactured with less material. In this
respect, in
some embodiments, for example, the trim 6300 has a "single wall
configuration". Similar to
the trim 5700, the trim 6300 is configured to connect to a panel described
herein, for
example, the panel 100 to 100F, to conceal the trim defined configuration 6340
of the trim
6300, and provide a clean and aesthetically pleasing finish to a connected
trim 6300 and
panel. In some embodiments, for example, the trim 6300 is connectible to the
panel 100 that
is the lowermost panel 100 of the wall panel assembly, for concealing the
fastener that is
111
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

connecting the trim 6300 to the wall 1. In some embodiments, for example,
while the trim
6300 is connected to a panel, such that a connected trim and panel is
established, the
mounting assembly 500 is securable to the connected trim 6300 and panel 100,
in a manner
substantially similar to the manner as described herein with respect to the
connected trim
5000 and panel 100, or with respect to the connected trim 5700 and panel 100.
[00481] In some embodiments, for example, the trim 6300 is the first
component of
the wall panel assembly 10 that is connected to the mounting wall 1. In this
respect, in some
embodiments, for example, the trim 6300 is a starter trim or starter strip.
[00482] As depicted, the trim 6300 comprises a trim-defined configuration
6340, which
includes the trim-defined connection system counterpart configuration 6302
(which includes
the trim defined first connection system counterpart 6324 (e.g. a notch 6324)
of the first
connection system 32, and the trim defined first connection system counterpart
6314 (e.g. a
projection 6314) of the second connection system 34, which defines an urging
surface
6313). The trim-defined configuration 6340 and trim-defined connection system
counterpart
configuration 6302 substantially correspond to the trim defined configuration
5040 and the
trim-defined connection system counterpart configuration 5002, and function in
a similar
manner. The trim 6300 is configured for co-operation with a panel 100 such
that the trim
6300 is connectible to the panel 100, such that the connected trim and panel
is established.
The trim 6300 and the panel 100 are connectible via the trim-defined
connection system
counterpart configuration 6302 and the second connection system counterpart
configuration
50 of the panel 100. The trim 6300 is connectible to a panel 100 in a manner
substantially
similar to the manner by which the connection between adjacent panels, in the
wall panel
assembly, is established, as described herein.
[00483] As depicted, the trim 6300 comprises a fastener receiving portion
6316,
including a fastener-engaging surface 6318 and a fastener locator 6320,
wherein the
fastener receiving portion 6316 and the fastener locator 6320 substantially
correspond with
the fastener receiving portion 5016 and the fastener locator 5020, and
function in a similar
manner.
[00484] As depicted, the trim 6300 comprises a recess 6326 that
substantially
corresponds with the recess 5026 and functions in a similar manner.
[00485] As depicted, the trim 6300 comprises an outermost end surface 6304
that
substantially corresponds to the outermost end surface 5004 and functions in a
similar
manner.
112
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[00486] As depicted, the trim 6300 comprises a recess 6350 that is defined
by a
recess-defining surface 6352, wherein the recess 6350 substantially
corresponds with the
recess 5050 and functions in a similar manner.
[00487] As depicted, the trim 6300 comprises an intermediate member 6372
that
defines a surface 6372, wherein the intermediate member 6372 substantially
corresponds to
the intermediate member 5070 and functions in a similar manner.
[00488] As depicted, the trim 6300 comprises a retaining surface defining
configuration 6360, which, in some embodiments, for example, includes a wall
member 6322
that defines the surface 6323, and further defines the retaining surface 6362
and the trim
defined first connection system counterpart 6324 (e.g. a notch 6324), wherein
the retaining
surface defining configuration 6360 substantially corresponds to the retaining
surface
defining configuration 5060 and functions in a similar manner.
[00489] As depicted, the trim 6300 comprises a front facing surface 6303.
The front
facing surface 6303 substantially corresponds to the front facing surface 5003
and function
sin a similar manner. The front facing surface 6303 is configured for being
visible while the
trim 6300 is secured to the wall 1. In some embodiments, for example, the
front facing
surface 6303 includes: (i) the front facing surface portion of the trim
defined first connection
system counterpart 6314 (e.g. the projection 6314), (ii) the front facing
surface portion of the
fastener receiving portion 6316, for example, the fastener locator 6320 and
the fastener-
engaging surface 6318, and (iii) the front facing surface portion of the
retaining surface
defining configuration 6360, which, in some embodiments, for example, includes
the outer
surface 6323. In some embodiments, for example, the front facing surface
defines the
fastener receiving portion 6316.Rather, as depicted, the trim 6300 comprises a
base 6301
that substantially corresponds to the base 5001, wherein at least a portion of
the base 6301
of the trim 6300 is disposed rearwardly of the retaining surface defining
configuration 6360,
and also disposed rearwardly of the recess 6350, and defines a rear-facing and
wall-
opposing surface 6306, except the base 6301 has a first base portion 6382 and
a second
base portion 6384 that are not both connected to the intermediate member 6370.
[00490] As depicted, the first base portion 6382 is defined at a terminal
end of a wall
member 6390 of the trim 6300, and the second base portion 6382 is connected to
the
intermediate member 6370 at a joint 6380. As depicted, the first base portion
6382 is offset
from the second base portion 6384.
113
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

[00491] Similar to the trim 5700, in some embodiments, for example, while
the trim
6300 is disposed in the installation-ready configuration, the first base
portion 6382 is
disposed in abutting engagement with the mounting wall 1, and the second base
portion
6384 is disposed in abutting engagement with the mounting wall 1. In some
embodiments,
for example, while the trim 6300 is disposed in the installation-ready
configuration, at least a
portion of the first base portion 6382 is disposed in abutting engagement with
the mounting
wall 1, and at least a portion of the second base portion 6384 is disposed in
abutting
engagement with the mounting wall 1. In some embodiments, for example, while
the trim
6300 is disposed in the installation-ready configuration, the entirety of the
first base portion
6382 is disposed in abutting engagement with the mounting wall 1, and the
entirety of the
second base portion 6384 is disposed in abutting engagement with the mounting
wall 1.
[00492] In some embodiments, for example, while the trim 6300 is disposed
in the
installation-ready configuration, the one or more portions of the trim 6300
that are disposed
in abutting engagement with the mounting wall 1 define the base 6301 of the
trim 6300.
[00493] In some embodiments, for example, similar to the trim 5700, the
front facing
surface 6303 and the base 6301 are co-operatively configured such that, while
the rear
facing surface 6301 is disposed in an abutting engagement with the mounting
wall 1, for
example, while the trim 6300 and the mounting wall 1 are disposed in the
installation-
effective relationship, in response to a retaining force that is applied to a
portion of the front
facing surface 6303, disposed downwardly, relative to the fastener receiving
portion 6316
(e.g. relative to the fastener locator 6320), there is an absence of rotation
of the trim 6300,
about the base 6301, relative to the mounting wall 1. In some embodiments, for
example, the
front facing surface 6303 and the base 6301 are co-operatively configured such
that, while
the rear facing surface 6301 is disposed in an abutting engagement with the
mounting wall
1, for example, while the trim 6300 and the mounting wall 1 are disposed in
the installation-
effective relationship, in response to the retaining force that is applied to
the retaining
surface configuration 6360, for effecting retention of the disposition of the
end trim 6300 in
the installation-ready configuration, there is an absence of rotation of the
trim 6300, about
the base 6301, relative to the mounting wall 1.
[00494] In some embodiments, for example, similar to the trim 5700, the
front facing
surface 6303 and the base 6301 are co-operatively configured such that, while
the rear
facing surface 6301 is disposed in an abutting engagement with the mounting
wall 1, for
example, while the trim 6300 and the mounting wall 1 are disposed in the
installation-
effective relationship, in response to a retaining force that is applied to a
portion of the front
facing surface 6303 that is disposed upwardly, relative to the fastener
receiving portion 6316
114
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

(e.g. relative to the fastener locator 6320), there is an absence of rotation
of the trim 6300,
about the base 6301, relative to the mounting wall 1.
[00495] In some embodiments, for example, similar to the trim 5700, the
front facing
surface 6303 and the base 6301 are co-operatively configured such that, while
the rear
facing surface 6301 is disposed in an abutting engagement with the mounting
wall 1, for
example, while the trim 6300 and the mounting wall 1 are disposed in the
installation-
effective relationship, in response to a retaining force that is applied to a
portion of the front
facing surface 6303 that is disposed forwardly of the base 6301, or that is
disposed forwardly
of the space defined between the first base portion 6382 and the second base
portion 6384,
there is an absence of rotation of the trim 6300, about the base 6301,
relative to the
mounting wall 1.
[00496] The absence of rotation of the trim 6300, about the base 6301,
relative to the
mounting wall 1, with effect that there is an absence of defeating of the
installation-ready
configuration. The absence of rotation of the trim 6300, about the base 6301,
relative to the
mounting wall 1, is such that, in response to the retaining force, the
disposition of the trim
6300, relative to the mounting wall 1, in the installation-ready
configuration, is retained.
[00497] In some embodiments, for example, the material of the bottom end or
lower
end trims described, herein, for example, trim 2300, 5000, 5700, and 6300,
include plastic,
for example, PVC, polypropylene, or recycled plastic. In some embodiments, for
example,
the material of the lower end trim includes a composite, such as, for example,
wood fibre
composite, recycled material, or cellular foam. In some embodiments, for
example, the
material of the lower end trim includes metal, such as aluminum. In some
embodiments, for
example, the material of the lower end trim includes fibreglass. In some
embodiments, for
example, the material of the lower end trim includes wood. In some
embodiments, for
example, the lower end trim is solid wood.
[00498] In some embodiments, for example, the lower end trim is
manufactured by
extrusion. In some embodiments, for example, the lower end trim is
manufactured by
molding. In some embodiments, for example, the lower end trim is manufactured
by
pultrusion. In some embodiments, for example, the lower end trim is
manufactured by cutting
a piece of wood. In some embodiments, for example, the trim is manufactured by
casting or
forging.
[00499] In some embodiments, for example, a kit for a wall panel assembly
10
includes one or more trims and one or more panels described herein. In some
embodiments,
115
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

for example, the kit includes an upper trim such as a trim 2200, and one or
more panels, for
example, one or more of the panel 100 to the panel 100F. In some embodiments,
for
example, the kit includes a lower trim, such as a trim 2300, a trim 5000, a
trim 5700, or a trim
6300, and one or more panels, for example, one or more of the panel 100 to the
panel 100F.
In some embodiments, for example, the kit for the wall panel assembly 10
includes a trim, for
example, an upper trim or a lower trim, a first panel (e.g. one of the panels
100 to 100F), and
a second panel (e.g. one of the panels 100 to 100F). In some embodiments, for
example,
the first panel 100 and the second panel 100 are identical. In some
embodiments, for
example, the first panel 100 and the second panel 100 are different. In some
embodiments,
for kit further comprises a mounting assembly as described herein, for
example, a mounting
assembly 500.
[00500] The preceding discussion provides many example embodiments.
Although
each embodiment represents a single combination of inventive elements, other
examples
may include all suitable combinations of the disclosed elements. Thus if one
embodiment
comprises elements A, B, and C, and a second embodiment comprises elements B
and D,
other remaining combinations of A, B, C, or D, may also be used.
[00501] The term "connected" or "coupled to" may include both direct
coupling (in
which two elements that are coupled to each other contact each other) and
indirect coupling
(in which at least one additional element is located between the two
elements).
[00502] Although the embodiments have been described in detail, it should
be
understood that various changes, substitutions and alterations could be made
herein.
[00503] Moreover, the scope of the present application is not intended to
be limited to
the particular embodiments of the process, machine, manufacture, and
composition of
matter, means, methods and steps described in the specification. As one of
ordinary skill in
the art will readily appreciate from the disclosure of the present invention,
processes,
machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps,
presently
existing or later to be developed, that perform substantially the same
function or achieve
substantially the same result as the corresponding embodiments described
herein may be
utilized. Accordingly, the appended claims are intended to include within
their scope such
processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or
steps.
[00504] As can be understood, the examples described above and illustrated
are
intended to be examples only. The invention is defined by the appended claims.
116
Date Recue/Date Received 2023-10-13

Representative Drawing