ORGANIZER WALL PANEL ASSEMBLY

Abstract

Disclosed is a panel comprising an interacting portion, defining a covering portion and a first panel-defined interacting counterpart. The interacting portion is biased to a pre-deformation configuration, wherein the interacting portion is tapering rearwardly. At least a portion of the interacting portion is deformable from the pre-deformation configuration for effectuating transitioning of the interacting portion to an interference-effective deformed configuration, wherein the transitioning includes a forwardly displacement of the first panel-defined interacting counterpart. The first panel-defined interacting counterpart and a second panel-defined interacting counterpart, of a second panel, are configurable for disposition in a relative movement interference relationship, wherein interference, to relative movement, between the panels, is established. While the first panel-defined interacting counterpart and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, and the second panel is connected to a wall with a fastener, the covering portion of the panel is covering the fastener.

Claims

1. An organizer wall panel assembly comprising a plurality of stackable panels having the substantially the same height and width, each said panel comprising a generally rectangular panel body having front surface, a wall engaging rear surface and horizontally extending upper and lower edges; an horizontally extending upper connecting portion, and a lower horizontally extending covering flange portion, the rear surface extending generally in a first plane, the front surface extending generally in a second plane parallel to and spaced laterally forward from the first plane, the upper connecting portion including, a vertical connecting web extending vertically upward from the upper edge and having a rear portion substantially coplanar with the rear surface and adapted for juxtaposed placement with said wall, a fastener receiving portion joined to the vertical connecting web, the fastener receiving portion being spaced rearwardly from the second plane and including a fastener pierceable body adapted to receive a mechanical fastener therethrough, and upwardly extending shoulder member and a downwardly extending arm member, the shoulder member projecting upwardly from the pierceable to define at least in part a longitudinally extending channel groove therewith, the arm member projecting downwardly from the pierceable body a distance part way towards the upper edge, wherein the arm member, pierceable body and panel body define at least in part a longitudinally extending retention groove seized for receiving an end portion of a hooked member therein, the covering flange portion being integral with and extending downwardly from the front surface a distance selected to substantially overly the fastener receiving portion of a next lower panel when positioned adjacent thereto, the covering flange portion tapering rearwardly to a bottom panel edge portion, the bottom panel edge portion being resiliently deformable between an unbiased position, wherein the bottom panel edge portion is spaced rearwardly from the second plane, and a biased position wherein the bottom panel edge portion is moved towards coplanar alignment with the second plane.

2. The wall panel assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the shoulder member and the arm member define a longitudinally extending groove therebetween, the groove being sized to substantially receive therein the entirety of a head portion of said mechanical fastener.

3. The wall panel assembly as claimed in claim 2, wherein a forwardmost portion of the fastener receiving portion is spaced a distance rearwardly from the second plane.

4. The wall panel assembly as claimed in claim 3, wherein the arm member includes a horizontally extending slot, the bottom panel edge portion including a rearwardly projecting rib adapted for resilient mated positioning in the slot of the next lower panel positioned adjacent thereto.

5. The wall panel assembly as claimed in claim 2, wherein the longitudinally extending groove includes a longitudinally guide channel for guiding insertion of the mechanical fastener through a selected portion of the fastener receiving portion.

6. The wall panel assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the panel body, upper connecting portion and covering flange portion are integrally formed.

7. The wall panel assembly as claimed in claim 6, wherein each of said panels comprise modular interchangeable panels formed as a unitary plastic, aluminum or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) extrusion.

8. The organizer wall panel assembly as claimed in claim 7, wherein the hooked member comprises a hangar bracket, the end portion of the hangar bracket including an L-shaped tab sized for releasable engagement with said retention groove.

9. The organizer wall panel assembly as claimed in claim 8, wherein said panel body includes a plurality of reinforcing webs spanning horizontally from said rear surface to said front surface, at least three of said reinforcing webs positioned for supporting said hangar bracket when said tab is provided in engagement with said retention groove.

10. An organizer wall panel assembly comprising a plurality of stackable panels having the substantially the same height and width, said panels being secured to a wall in a stacked side-by-side arrangement, each said panel comprising a generally rectangular hollow panel body having front surface, a wall engaging rear surface and horizontally extending upper and lower edges; an upper horizontally extending connecting portion, and a lower horizontally extending covering flange portion, the rear surface extending generally in a first plane, the front surface extending generally in a second plane parallel to and spaced laterally forward from the first plane, the upper connecting portion including, a vertical connecting web extending vertically upward from the upper edge and having a rear portion substantially coplanar with the rear surface and adapted for juxtaposed placement with said wall, a fastener receiving portion joined to the vertical connecting web, the fastener receiving portion being spaced rearwardly from the second plane and including a fastener pierceable body adapted to receive a mechanical fastener therethrough, and upwardly extending shoulder member and a downwardly extending arm member, the shoulder member projecting upwardly from the pierceable body to define at least in part a longitudinally extending channel groove therewith, the arm member projecting downwardly from the pierceable body a distance part way towards the upper edge, wherein the arm member, pierceable body and panel body define at least in part a longitudinally extending retention groove sized for receiving an end portion of a hooked member therein, the lower edge further including a horizontally extending boss, the boss sized for mated placement within the channel groove of a next lower-panel when positioned adjacent thereto, the covering flange portion being integral with and extending downwardly from the front surface a distance selected to substantially overly the fastener receiving portion of the next lower panel, the covering flange portion tapering rearwardly to a bottom panel edge portion, the bottom panel edge portion being resiliently movable from an unbiased position, wherein the bottom panel edge portion being resiliently movable from an unbiased position, wherein the bottom panel edge portion is spaced a distance that is from 0.030 inches and 0.150 inches, rearwardly from the second plane to a biased position wherein the bottom panel edge portion is moved forwardly by a deflected distance that is from 0.030 inches and 0.150 inches.

11. The wall panel assembly as claimed in claim 10, wherein a forwardmost portion of the fastener receiving portion is spaced rearwardly from the second plane by a distance equal to or less than the deflected distance.

12. The wall panel assembly as claims in claim 10, wherein the panel body has a vertical height that is from four (4) inches to six (6) inches, and the covering flange section has a vertical width that is from 0.5 inches to 1.5 inches.

13. The wall panel assembly as claimed in claim 10, wherein in the channel groove has a lateral width that is from 0.4 inches to 0.6 inches.

14. The wall panel assembly as claimed in claim 10, wherein the covering flange portion extends downwardly from the panel body as a generally planar, resiliently deformable flange member to a lowermost edge having an inwardly extending projection.

15. The wall panel assembly as claimed in claim 10, wherein the covering flange portion is substantially coplanar with the front surface.

16. The wall panel assembly as claimed in claim 10, wherein the panel body comprises a substantially hollow body and includes a plurality of horizontally extending reinforcing webs, the rear surface, front surface and reinforcing webs having a thickness that is from 0.020 inches to 0.070 inches.

17. The wall panel assembly as claimed in claim 14, wherein the outer surface of the arm member is provided with a notch, and in the installed position of a plurality of panels, the inward projection of the covering flange being received with the notch.

18. The wall panel assembly as claimed in claim 10, wherein the panel body is substantially hollow.

19. The wall panel assembly as claimed in claim 18, wherein the panel body comprises at least one cross member extending between the wall contacting rear surface and the outer front surface.

20. The wall panel assembly as claimed in claim 10, wherein the fastener pierceable body is further provided with a V-shaped notch, and in the installed position of a plurality of the panels the mechanical fasteners are secured through the V-shaped notches.

21. The wall panel assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second plane is spaced laterally forward from the first plane by a distance that is from 0.5 inches to 0.65 inches.

22. The wall panel assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein, while the bottom panel edge portion is in the unbiased position, the bottom panel edge portion is spaced by a distance that is from 0.030 inches to 0.150 inches rearwardly from the second plane.

23. The wall panel assembly as claimed in claim 22, wherein, while the bottom panel edge portion is in the unbiased position, the bottom panel edge portion is spaced by a distance that is from 0.040 inches to 0.080 inches rearwardly from the second plane.

24. The wall panel assembly as claimed in claim 10, wherein the second plane is spaced laterally forward from the first plane by a distance that is from 0.5 inches to 0.65 inches.

25. The wall panel assembly as claimed in claim 10, wherein, while the bottom panel edge portion is in the unbiased position, the bottom panel edge portion is spaced by a distance that is from 0.040 inches and 0.080 inches rearwardly from the second plane.

26. The wall panel assembly as claimed in claim 10, wherein, while the bottom panel edge portion is in the biased position, the bottom panel edge portion is moved forwardly, relative to the unbiased position, by the deflected distance that is from 0.040 inches to 0.080 inches.

27. The wall panel assembly as claimed in claim 12, wherein the vertical height of the panel body is from 4.5 inches to 5.5 inches, and the vertical width of the covering flange section is 1 inch.

28. The wall panel assembly as claimed in claim 16, wherein the thickness of the rear surface, front surface, and reinforcing webs is 0.050 inches.

29. A panel, defining a front-facing surface and a rear-facing surface, wherein the rear-facing surface is disposed, relative to the front-facing surface, on an opposite side of the panel, wherein the panel is configured for mounting to a wall such that the rear-facing surface is opposing the wall, wherein the panel comprises: an interacting portion, extending from the front-facing surface, and defining: a covering portion; and a first panel-defined interacting counterpart; wherein: the interacting portion is urged by a bias to a pre-deformation configuration, wherein, in the pre-deformation configuration, the extending of the interacting portion from the front-facing surface is with effect that the interacting portion is tapering rearwardly from the front-facing surface; at least a portion of the interacting portion is deformable from the pre-deformation configuration for effectuating transitioning of the interacting portion to an interference-effective deformed configuration, wherein the transitioning includes a forwardly displacement of the first panel-defined interacting counterpart; the panel is configured for defining a first panel which is co-operable with a second panel, the second panel being co-operable with a fastener for effectuating connection of the second panel to a wall with the fastener, wherein the co-operability of the first panel with the second panel is such that: the first panel-defined interacting counterpart and a second panel-defined interacting counterpart, of the second panel, are configurable for disposition in a relative movement interference relationship, wherein, in the relative movement interference relationship: the interacting portion is disposed in the interference-effective deformed configuration; and interference, to relative movement, between the first panel and the second panel, is established; the bias urges resistance to defeating of the relative movement interference relationship; and while the first panel-defined interacting counterpart and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, and the second panel is connected to a wall with a fastener, the covering portion of the first panel is covering the fastener.

30. The panel of claim 29, wherein, while the first panel-defined interacting counterpart and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, the first panel-defined interacting counterpart is engaging the second panel-defined interacting counterpart, such that the interference, to relative movement, between the first panel and the second panel, is established.

31. The panel of claim 29, wherein, while the first panel-defined interacting counterpart and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, the first panel-defined interacting counterpart is bearing against the second panel-defined interacting counterpart, such that the interference, to relative movement, between the first panel and the second panel, is established.

32. The panel of claim 29, wherein, while the first panel-defined interacting counterpart and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, the first panel-defined interacting counterpart is disposed in snap fit engagement with the second panel-defined interacting counterpart, such that the interference, to relative movement, between the first panel and the second panel, is established.

33. The panel of claim 29, wherein the bias is a material bias of the interacting portion.

34. The panel of claim 29, wherein, while the first panel-defined interacting counterpart and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, the first panel-defined interacting counterpart and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart are disposed in opposing relationship.

35. The panel of claim 34, wherein the first panel-defined interacting counterpart defines a first panel-defined opposing surface and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart defines a second panel-defined opposing surface, and, while the first panel-defined interacting counterpart and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, the first panel-defined opposing surface and the second panel-defined opposing surface are disposed in opposing relationship.

36. The panel of claim 35, wherein the front facing surface defines a planar surface, and, while the first panel-defined interacting counterpart and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, an axis, normal to the first panel-defined opposing surface, is parallel to an axis that is normal to the planar front facing surface.

37. The panel of claim 29, wherein the covering of the fastener by the covering portion of the first panel is occluding of the fastener by the covering portion of the first panel.

38. The panel of claim 29, wherein the covering of the fastener by the covering portion of the first panel is concealing of the fastener by the covering portion of the first panel.

39. The panel of claim 29, wherein the front facing surface is a planar surface.

40. The panel of claim 29, wherein the covering portion defines a front-facing covering portion surface that is a planar surface.

41. The panel of claim 29, wherein: the front facing surface is a planar surface; the covering portion defines a front-facing covering portion surface that is a planar surface; while the interacting portion is disposed in the interference-effective deflected configuration, the interacting portion is co-planar with the planar front facing surface.

42. The panel of claim 29, wherein the forwardly displacement of the first panel-defined interacting counterpart for transitioning of the interacting portion from the pre-deformation configuration to the interference-effective deformed configuration is a displacement of the first panel-defined interacting counterpart in a forwardly direction.

43. The panel of claim 29, wherein the forwardly displacement of the first panel-defined interacting counterpart for transitioning of the interacting portion from the pre-deformation configuration to the interference-effective deformed configuration includes a displacement of the first panel-defined interacting counterpart by a distance of at least 0.030 inches in a forwardly direction.

44. The panel of claim 29, wherein the material of the panel includes plastic.

45. The panel of claim 29, wherein the panel is an extrusion.

46. The panel of claim 29, wherein the deformability of the at least a portion of the interacting portion from the pre-deformation configuration is also for effectuating transitioning of the interacting portion to a transitioning-effective deformed configuration, wherein, while the interacting portion is disposed in the transitioning-effective deformed configuration, and the second panel is disposed in a co-operative alignment with the interacting portion, the interacting portion is urged, by the bias, for displacement, relative to the second panel, with effect that the first panel becomes disposed in the interference-effective deformed configuration.

47. The panel of claim 29, wherein, while the panel is defining the first panel which is co-operable with the second panel, the mountability of the panel to the wall, for which the panel is configured, is independent of its co-operability with the second panel.

48. The panel of claim 29, wherein a fastener is receivable by the panel for mounting of the panel to a wall, such that the mountability of the panel to the wall, for which the panel is configured, is based upon the receiving of the fastener by the panel.

49. The panel of claim 48, wherein the receiving is with effect that the fastener extends through the panel.

50. A panel, defining a front-facing surface and a rear-facing surface, wherein the rear-facing surface is disposed, relative to the front-facing surface, on an opposite side of the panel, wherein the panel is configured for mounting to a wall such that the rear-facing surface is opposing the wall, wherein the panel comprises: an interacting portion defining: a covering portion; and a first panel-defined interacting counterpart; wherein: the interacting portion is urged by a bias to a pre-deformation configuration; at least a portion of the interacting portion is deformable from the pre-deformation configuration for effectuating transitioning of the interacting portion to an interference-effective deformed configuration; the panel is configured for defining a first panel which is co-operable with a second panel, the second panel being co-operable with a fastener for effectuating connection of the second panel to a wall with the fastener, wherein the co-operability of the first panel with the second panel is such that: the first panel-defined interacting counterpart and a second panel-defined interacting counterpart, of the second panel, are configurable for disposition in a relative movement interference relationship, wherein, in the relative movement interference relationship: the interacting portion is disposed in the interference-effective deformed configuration; and the first panel-defined interacting counterpart is bearing against the second panel-defined interacting counterpart, such that there is established: an interference, to relative movement, between the first panel and the second panel, and an urging of resistance to defeating of the relative movement interference relationship by the bias; and while the first panel-defined interacting counterpart and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, and the second panel is connected to a wall with a fastener, the covering portion of the first panel is covering the fastener.

51. The panel of claim 50, wherein the bias is a material bias of the interacting portion.

52. The panel of claim 50, wherein, while the first panel-defined interacting counterpart and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, the first panel-defined interacting counterpart and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart are disposed in opposing relationship.

53. The panel of claim 52, wherein the first panel-defined interacting counterpart defines a first panel-defined opposing surface and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart defines a second panel-defined opposing surface, and, while the first panel-defined interacting counterpart and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, the first panel-defined opposing surface and the second panel-defined opposing surface are disposed in opposing relationship.

54. The panel of claim 53, wherein the front facing surface defines a planar surface, and, while the first panel-defined interacting counterpart and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, an axis, normal to the first panel-defined opposing surface, is parallel to an axis that is normal to the planar front facing surface.

55. The panel of claim 50, wherein the covering of the fastener by the covering portion of the first panel is occluding of the fastener by the covering portion of the first panel.

56. The panel of claim 50, wherein the covering of the fastener by the covering portion of the first panel is concealing of the fastener by the covering portion of the first panel.

57. The panel of claim 50, wherein the front facing surface is a planar surface.

58. The panel of claim 50, wherein the covering portion defines a front-facing covering portion surface that is a planar surface.

59. The panel of claim 50, wherein: the front facing surface is a planar surface; the covering portion defines a front-facing covering portion surface that is a planar surface; while the interacting portion is disposed in the interference-effective deflected configuration, the interacting portion is co-planar with the planar front facing surface.

60. The panel of claim 50, wherein the transitioning of the interacting portion from the pre-deformation configuration to the interference-effective deformed configuration includes a displacement of the first panel-defined interacting counterpart in a forwardly direction.

61. The panel of claim 50, wherein the transitioning of the interacting portion from the pre-deformation configuration to the interference-effective deformed configuration includes a displacement of the first panel-defined interacting counterpart by a distance of at least 0.030 inches in a forwardly direction.

62. The panel of claim 50, wherein the material of the panel includes plastic.

63. The panel of claim 50, wherein the panel is an extrusion.

64. The panel of claim 50, wherein the deformability of the at least a portion of the interacting portion from the pre-deformation configuration is also for effectuating transitioning of the interacting portion to a transitioning-effective deformed configuration, wherein, while the interacting portion is disposed in the transitioning-effective deformed configuration, and the second panel is disposed in a co-operative alignment with the interacting portion, the interacting portion is urged, by the bias, for displacement, relative to the second panel, with effect that the first panel becomes disposed in the interference-effective deformed configuration.

65. The panel of claim 50, wherein, while the panel is defining the first panel which is co-operable with the second panel, the mountability of the panel to the wall, for which the panel is configured, is independent of its co-operability with the second panel.

66. The panel of claim 50, wherein a fastener is receivable by the panel for mounting of the panel to a wall, such that the mountability of the panel to the wall, for which the panel is configured, is based upon the receiving of the fastener by the panel.

67. The panel of claim 66, wherein the receiving is with effect that the fastener extends through the panel.

68. A panel, defining a front-facing surface and a rear-facing surface, wherein the rear-facing surface is disposed, relative to the front-facing surface, on an opposite side of the panel, wherein the panel is configured for mounting to a wall such that the rear-facing surface is opposing the wall, wherein the panel comprises: an interacting portion, extending from the front-facing surface, and defining: a covering portion; and a first panel-defined interacting counterpart; wherein: the interacting portion is urged by a bias to a pre-deflection configuration, wherein, in the pre-deflection configuration, the extending of the interacting portion from the front-facing surface is with effect that the interacting portion is tapering rearwardly from the front-facing surface; the interacting portion is deflectable from the pre-deflection configuration to an interference-effective deflected configuration, such that a deflection of the interacting portion, from the pre-deflection configuration to the interference-effective deflected configuration, is obtainable, wherein the deflection from the pre-deflection configuration includes a forwardly displacement of the first panel-defined interacting counterpart; the panel is configured for defining a first panel which is co-operable with a second panel, the second panel being co-operable with a fastener for effectuating mounting of the second panel to a wall with the fastener, wherein the co-operability of the first panel with the second panel is such that: the first panel-defined interacting counterpart and a second panel-defined interacting counterpart, of the second panel, are configurable for disposition in a relative movement interference relationship, wherein, in the relative movement interference relationship: the interacting portion is disposed in the interference-effective deflected configuration; and interference, to relative movement, between the first panel and the second panel, is established; the bias urges resistance to defeating of the relative movement interference relationship; and while the first panel-defined interacting counterpart and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, and the second panel is connected to a wall with a fastener, the covering portion of the first panel is covering the fastener.

69. The panel of claim 68, wherein, while the first panel-defined interacting counterpart and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, the first panel-defined interacting counterpart is engaging the second panel-defined interacting counterpart, such that the interference, to relative movement, between the first panel and the second panel, is established.

70. The panel of claim 68, wherein, while the first panel-defined interacting counterpart and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, the first panel-defined interacting counterpart is bearing against the second panel-defined interacting counterpart, such that the interference, to relative movement, between the first panel and the second panel, is established.

71. The panel of claim 68, wherein, while the first panel-defined interacting counterpart and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, the first panel-defined interacting counterpart is disposed in snap fit engagement with the second panel-defined interacting counterpart, such that the interference, to relative movement, between the first panel and the second panel, is established.

72. The panel of claim 68, wherein the bias is a material bias of the interacting portion.

73. The panel of claim 68, wherein, while the first panel-defined interacting counterpart and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, the first panel-defined interacting counterpart and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart are disposed in opposing relationship.

74. The panel of claim 73, wherein the first panel-defined interacting counterpart defines a first panel-defined opposing surface and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart defines a second panel-defined opposing surface, and, while the first panel-defined interacting counterpart and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, the first panel-defined opposing surface and the second panel-defined opposing surface are disposed in opposing relationship.

75. The panel of claim 74, wherein the front facing surface defines a planar surface, and, while the first panel-defined interacting counterpart and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, an axis, normal to the first panel-defined opposing surface, is parallel to an axis that is normal to the planar front facing surface.

76. The panel of claim 68, wherein the covering of the fastener by the covering portion of the first panel is occluding of the fastener by the covering portion of the first panel.

77. The panel of claim 68, wherein the covering of the fastener by the covering portion of the first panel is concealing of the fastener by the covering portion of the first panel.

78. The panel of claim 68, wherein the front facing surface is a planar surface.

79. The panel of claim 68, wherein the covering portion defines a front-facing covering portion surface that is a planar surface.

80. The panel of claim 68, wherein: the front facing surface is a planar surface; the covering portion defines a front-facing covering portion surface that is a planar surface; while the interacting portion is disposed in the interference-effective deflected configuration, the interacting portion is co-planar with the planar front facing surface.

81. The panel of claim 68, wherein the forwardly displacement of the first panel-defined interacting counterpart for transitioning of the interacting portion from the pre-deflection configuration to the interference-effective deflected configuration is a displacement of the first panel-defined interacting counterpart in a forwardly direction.

82. The panel of claim 68, wherein the forwardly displacement of the first panel-defined interacting counterpart for transitioning of the interacting portion from the pre-deflection configuration to the interference-effective deflected configuration includes a displacement of the first panel-defined interacting counterpart by a distance of at least 0.030 inches in a forwardly direction.

83. The panel of claim 68, wherein the material of the panel includes plastic.

84. The panel of claim 68, wherein the panel is an extrusion.

85. The panel of claim 68, wherein the interacting portion is also deflectable from the pre-deflection configuration to a transitioning-effective deflected configuration, such that a deflection of the interacting portion, from the pre-deflection configuration to the transitioning-effective deflected configuration, is obtainable, wherein, while the interacting portion is disposed in the transitioning-effective deflected configuration, and the second panel is disposed in a co-operative alignment with the interacting portion, the interacting portion is urged, by the bias, for displacement, relative to the second panel, with effect that the first panel becomes disposed in the interference-effective deflected configuration.

86. The panel of claim 68, wherein, while the panel is defining the first panel which is co-operable with the second panel, the mountability of the panel to the wall, for which the panel is configured, is independent of its co-operability with the second panel.

87. The panel of claim 68, wherein a fastener is receivable by the panel for mounting of the panel to a wall, such that the mountability of the panel to the wall, for which the panel is configured, is based upon the receiving of the fastener by the panel.

88. The panel of claim 87, wherein the receiving is with effect that the fastener extends through the panel.

89. A panel, defining a front-facing surface and a rear-facing surface, wherein the rear-facing surface is disposed, relative to the front-facing surface, on an opposite side of the panel, wherein the panel is configured for mounting to a wall such that the rear-facing surface is opposing the wall, wherein the panel comprises: an interacting portion defining: a covering portion; and a first panel-defined interacting counterpart; wherein: the interacting portion is urged by a bias to a pre-deflection configuration; the interacting portion is deflectable from the pre-deflection configuration to an interference-effective deflected configuration, such that a deflection of the interacting portion, from the pre-deflection configuration to the interference-effective deflected configuration, is obtainable; the panel is configured for defining a first panel which is co-operable with a second panel, the second panel being co-operable with a fastener for effectuating connection of the second panel to a wall with the fastener, wherein the co-operability of the first panel with the second panel is such that: the first panel-defined interacting counterpart and a second panel-defined interacting counterpart, of the second panel, are configurable for disposition in a relative movement interference relationship, wherein, in the relative movement interference relationship: the interacting portion is disposed in the interference-effective deflected configuration; and the first panel-defined interacting counterpart is bearing against the second panel-defined interacting counterpart, such that there is established: an interference, to relative movement, between the first panel and the second panel, and an urging of resistance to defeating of the relative movement interference relationship by the bias; and while the first panel-defined interacting counterpart and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, and the second panel is connected to a wall with a fastener, the covering portion of the first panel is covering the fastener.

90. The panel of claim 89, wherein the bias is a material bias of the interacting portion.

91. The panel of claim 89, wherein, while the first panel-defined interacting counterpart and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, the first panel-defined interacting counterpart and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart are disposed in opposing relationship.

92. The panel of claim 91, wherein the first panel-defined interacting counterpart defines a first panel-defined opposing surface and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart defines a second panel-defined opposing surface, and, while the first panel-defined interacting counterpart and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, the first panel-defined opposing surface and the second panel-defined opposing surface are disposed in opposing relationship.

93. The panel of claim 92, wherein the front facing surface defines a planar surface, and, while the first panel-defined interacting counterpart and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, an axis, normal to the first panel-defined opposing surface, is parallel to an axis that is normal to the planar front facing surface.

94. The panel of claim 89, wherein the covering of the fastener by the covering portion of the first panel is occluding of the fastener by the covering portion of the first panel.

95. The panel of claim 89, wherein the covering of the fastener by the covering portion of the first panel is concealing of the fastener by the covering portion of the first panel.

96. The panel of claim 89, wherein the front facing surface is a planar surface.

97. The panel of claim 89, wherein the covering portion defines a front-facing covering portion surface that is a planar surface.

98. The panel of claim 89, wherein: the front facing surface is a planar surface; the covering portion defines a front-facing covering portion surface that is a planar surface; while the interacting portion is disposed in the interference-effective deflected configuration, the interacting portion is co-planar with the planar front facing surface.

99. The panel of claim 89, wherein the transitioning of the interacting portion from the pre-deflection configuration to the interference-effective deflected configuration includes a displacement of the first panel-defined interacting counterpart in a forwardly direction.

100. The panel of claim 89, wherein the transitioning of the interacting portion from the pre-deflection configuration to the interference-effective deflected configuration includes a displacement of the first panel-defined interacting counterpart by a distance of at least 0.030 inches in a forwardly direction.

101. The panel of claim 89, wherein the material of the panel includes plastic.

102. The panel of claim 89, wherein the panel is an extrusion.

103. The panel of claim 89, wherein the interacting portion is also deflectable from the pre-deflection configuration to a transitioning-effective deflected configuration, such that a deflection of the interacting portion, from the pre-deflection configuration to the transitioning-effective deflected configuration, is obtainable, wherein, while the interacting portion is disposed in the transitioning-effective deflected configuration, and the second panel is disposed in a co-operative alignment with the interacting portion, the interacting portion is urged, by the bias, for displacement, relative to the second panel, with effect that the first panel becomes disposed in the interference-effective deflected configuration.

104. The panel of claim 89, wherein, while the panel is defining the first panel which is co-operable with the second panel, the mountability of the panel to the wall, for which the panel is configured, is independent of its co-operability with the second panel.

105. The panel of claim 89, wherein a fastener is receivable by the panel for mounting of the panel to a wall, such that the mountability of the panel to the wall, for which the panel is configured, is based upon the receiving of the fastener by the panel.

106. The panel of claim 105, wherein the receiving is with effect that the fastener extends through the panel.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0033] Reference may now be bad to the following detailed description taken together with the accompanying drawings in which:

[0034] FIG. 1 shows a partial perspective view of a wall section which incorporates an organizer wall panel assembly in accordance with an example embodiment of the invention.

[0035] FIG. 2 shows an elevation end view of a modular panel used in the construction of an organizer wall panel assembly in accordance with an example embodiment of the invention.

[0036] FIG. 2A shows an enlarged view of the lower covering flange portion of the panel illustrated in FIG. 2.

[0037] FIG. 3 shows a perspective end view illustrating the positioning of a panel shown in FIG. 2 in an arrangement overlapping a conventional dry wall panel, in the construction of a wall section in accordance with the example embodiment.

[0038] FIG. 4 shows a perspective end view illustrating the interlocking positioning of a number of panels shown in FIG. 2 in a stacked edge-to-edge arrangement in the erection of the organizer wall panel assembly shown in FIG. 1.

[0039] FIG. 5 shows an enlarged view illustrating the interlocking securement of adjacent panels shown in FIG. 4.

[0040] FIG. 6 shows an enlarged view of the lower covering flange portion of the panel illustrated in FIG. 2.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] Referring to FIG. 1, which illustrates a finished wall section 6 which incorporates organizer wall panel assembly 8 in accordance with an example embodiment of the invention. As will be described, in addition to the organizer wall panel assembly 8, the finished wall section 6 incorporates one or more conventional half inch dry wall sheets 10 and a series in individual modular organizer panels 20 which are mounted to the wall studs 12, as illustrated in FIG. 4. In some embodiments, for example, the panel 20 is configured for mounting to a wall.

[0042] As is illustrated in FIG. 1, the organiser wall panel assembly 8 is provided at a height spaced above the floor 4, and forms a section of the finished wall 6 and has an overall vertical extent selected at between 2 and 6 feet, for increased efficiency, and reduced manufacturing and installation costs. It is to be appreciated however, that depending on individual user requirements, the organizer wall panel assembly 8 may be provided with a greater or lessened vertical height, or if desired, could extend the full vertical height of the wall 6.

[0043] Referring to FIG. 2, which illustrates an organizer panel 20 used in the organizer panel wall assembly 8 in accordance with an example embodiment of the invention. Each one of the panels 20, independently, is provided with a modular construction having a constant cross-sectional profile. The panels 20 are adapted for use and assembly in a horizontally stacked edge-to-edge arrangement with both additional identical panels 20 as shown with reference to FIG. 1, and with one or more conventional dry wall sheets 10 in the construction of the finished wall section 6.

[0044] Each panel 20 is provided as interchangeable panels having a unitary construction. In some embodiments, for example, the material of the panel 20 includes plastic or aluminum. In some embodiments, for example, the material of the panel 20 includes polyvinylchloride (PVC). In some embodiments, for example the panel 20 is an extrusion. The panel 20 has an overall vertical height that is from five (5) to eight (8) inches, for example, from six (6) to seven (7) inches, and may be provided with a variable longitudinal length. In some embodiments, for example, the length of the panel is from six (6) feet to 16 feet; for example, from eight (8) feet to 12 feet. Longer or shorter panels 20 may however be provided depending on the final application.

[0045] FIGS. 2 and 2A illustrate each panel 20 as having a generally rectangular panel body 22. The panel body 22 is formed having a generally hollow, rectangular construction, having generally planar front surface 28, or front-facing surface 28, and rear surface 28, or rear-facing surface 30. FIG. 2A illustrates the front and rear surfaces 28, 30 as being substantially planar and respectively lying in parallel, spaced apart planes PF and PR. In some embodiments, for example, the rear-facing surface 30 is disposed, relative to the front-facing surface 28, on an opposite side of the panel 20. In some embodiments, for example, the panel 20 is configured for mounting to the wall or wall stud 12 such that the rear-facing surface 30 is opposing the wall or the wall stud 12, In some embodiments, for example, to facilitate simplified use of the panel 20 with the conventional dry wall sheets 10, the construction of the finished wall 6, the front and rear surfaces 28, 30 are provided with a lateral spacing selected to provide the panel 20 with a maximum lateral thickness T from 0.5 inches to 0.65 inches. In some embodiments, for example, the panel body 22 has an overall vertical height that is from 4.5 inches to 5.5 inches, however longer or shorter constructions may be provided. FIG. 2 shows the front and rear surfaces 28, 30 being connected at each of their top and bottom edges, and as middle intervals by a series of spaced integral transverse reinforcing webs 32a-f. In some embodiments, for example, to minimize panel deformation under higher load conditions, each of the front and rear surfaces 28, 30 and reinforcing webs 32a-f, independently, is formed with a thickness that is from 0.020 inches to 0.2 inches, such as, for example, 0.020 inches to 0.070 inches, such as, for example, 0.050 inches. It is to be appreciated however, that thinner or thicker front and/or rear surfaces 28, 30 and/or webs 32 may be provided, depending on the panel material selection.

[0046] FIG. 2 illustrates the lower edge of the panel body 22 as further including a horizontally extending rectangular boss 34. The boss 34 extends downwardly along the rearward most edge of the body 22 and is integral with the rear surface 30 and lowermost web 32f. In some embodiments, for example, the boss 34 extends forward laterally from the plane PR of the rear surface 30 a distance that is less than 0.3 inches, such as, for example, from 0.3 inches to 0.15 inches, such as, for example, from 0.2 inches to 0.25 inches. In a simplified construction, the boss 34 is formed as a generally square projection; however, other geometries are possible. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, in some embodiments, for example, the formation of the boss 34 is selected to allow its mated placement within either a bevel groove 14 formed along the upper rear portion of the dry wall sheet 10, or a channel groove 60 provided in a next lower panel 20, to assist in maintaining the securement of the panel 20 in a vertical orientation against the studs 12.

[0047] As illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, the panel 20 includes an upper connecting portion 24, configured for connection, for example, securement, of the panel 20 an adjacent panel 20, as part of a stacked edge-to-edge array in the organizer panel assembly 8 of FIG. 1. The upper connecting portion 24 of the panel 20 is shown in FIG. 2 as including a double-walled connecting web 40 and a fastener receiving portion 42. The connecting web 40 is shown as having a generally planar rearwardmost wall 44 which is integral with and co-planar with the panel body rear surface 30 at its lower end, and the fastener receiving portion 42 at its upper end. In some embodiments, for example, a secondary reinforcing wall 46 may be positioned forwardly and spaced from the wall 44. The secondary reinforcing wall 46 spans between the upper and panel body 22 and connecting portion 24 for added rigidity. One or more reinforcing webs may further be provided between the rearwardmost wall 44 and reinforcing wall 46, for additional structural support.

[0048] FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate the upper connecting portion 24 as including a generally rectangular fastener receiving portion 42 integrally formed with the connecting web 40. The fastener receiving portion 42 includes a hollow, fastener pierceable body 54. As shown in FIG. 4, the pierceable body 54 has a generally cross-sectional profile and is sized to receive a mechanical screw fastener 16 therethrough. A horizontally extending shoulder member 56 projects upwardly along a forward edge portion of the pierceable body 54. In some embodiments, for example, the shoulder member 56 extends vertically by a distance that is from 0.2 inches to 0.5 inches and with the pierceable body 54 defines the longitudinally extending channel groove 60. The channel groove 60 is sized to receive in a complimentary fit therein, the lower edge boss 34 of a next, horizontally adjacent panel 20.

[0049] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, in some embodiments, for example, the shoulder member 56 is configured to be received in a channel groove 61 defined between the boss 34 and an interacting portion 25 of an adjacent panel 20, to assist in maintaining the securement of the panel 20 in a vertical orientation against the studs 12. In some embodiments, for example, disposition of the shoulder member 56 in the channel groove 61 is with effect that the panel 20 and the adjacent panel 20 become disposed in a coupled relationship, for example, an interference fit relationship or a friction fit relationship.

[0050] A horizontally extending arm member 62 extends downwardly from the forward edge portion of the pierceable body 54 generally vertically aligned beneath the shoulder member 56. In some embodiments, for example, the arm member 62 extends part way, for example, approximately half way towards the upper edge 32a of the panel body 22. In some embodiments, for example, the shoulder member 56 and arm member 62 extend to a forwardmost distance which is spaced rearwardly from the plane PF. The configuration of the fastener receiving portion 42 is selected to allow for the positioning of a covering flange portion 26 of a next upper adjacent panel 20, in a position substantially overlying the fastening receiving portion 52, in a generally co-planar arrangement with the plane PF.

[0051] In some embodiments, for example, the shoulder member 56 and arm member 62 define a fastener receiving groove 68 therebetween. The fastener receiving groove 68 is sized to substantially receive therein head portion 18 of the screw fasteners 16, when inserted through the fastener pierceable body 54 in the mechanical securement of the panel 20 to the wall studs 12.

[0052] As illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 2A, the panel 20 includes an interacting portion 25. The interacting portion 25 extends from the front-facing surface 28, and defines a covering portion 26, for example, a covering flange portion 26, and a first panel-defined interacting portion 38, for example, a rearwardly projecting rib 38.

[0053] In some embodiments, for example, the interacting portion 25 is urged by a bias to a pre-deformation configuration (illustrated in solid line in FIG. 2A). In some embodiments, for example, in the pre-deformation configuration, the extending of the interacting portion 25 from the front-facing surface 28 is with effect that the interacting portion 25 is tapering rearwardly from the front-facing surface 28.

[0054] In some embodiments, for example, at least a portion of the interacting portion 25 is deformable from the pre-deformation configuration (illustrated in solid line in FIG. 2A) for effectuating transitioning of the interacting portion 25 to an interference-effective deformed configuration (illustrated in stippled line in FIG. 2A),

[0055] In some embodiments, for example, the transitioning of the interacting portion 25 from the pre-deformation configuration to the interference-effective deformed configuration includes a forwardly displacement of the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38. In some embodiments, for example, the forwardly displacement of the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38 for transitioning of the interacting portion 25 from the pre-deformation configuration to the interference-effective deformed configuration is a displacement of the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38 in a forwardly direction. In some embodiments, for example, the forwardly displacement of the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38 for transitioning of the interacting portion 25 from the pre-deformation configuration to the interference-effective deformed configuration includes a displacement of the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38 by a distance of at least 0.030 inches in a forwardly direction. In some embodiments, for example, the forwardly displacement of the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38 for transitioning of the interacting portion 25 from the pre-deformation configuration to the interference-effective deformed configuration includes a displacement of the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38 by a distance of 0.0625 inches in a forwardly direction.

[0056] In some embodiments, for example, the ratio of: (i) the length of the interacting portion 25, and (ii) the forwardly displacement of the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38 for transitioning of the interacting portion 25 from the pre-deformation configuration to the interference-effective deformed configuration, has a minimum value of at least 3:1.

[0057] In some embodiments, for example, the panel 20 is configured for defining a first panel 20 which is co-operable with a second panel 20. In some embodiments, for example, the second panel 20 is co-operable with a fastener 16 for effectuating connection of the second panel 20 to a wall with the fastener 16. In some embodiments, for example, the co-operability of the first panel with the second panel is such that. the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38 and a second panel-defined interacting counterpart 66, for example, a longitudinally extending notch 66, of the second panel 20, are configurable for disposition in a relative movement interference relationship, as depicted in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5. In the relative movement interference relationship, the interacting portion 25 is disposed in the interference-effective deformed configuration, and interference, to relative movement, between the first panel 20 and the second panel 20, is established.

[0058] In some embodiments, for example, while the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38 and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart 66 are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38 is engaging the second panel-defined interacting counterpart 66, such that the interference, to relative movement, between the first panel 20 and the second panel 20, is established.

[0059] In some embodiments, for example, while the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38 and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart 66 are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38 is bearing against the second panel-defined interacting counterpart 66, such that the interference, to relative movement, between the first panel 20 and the second panel 20, is established.

[0060] In some embodiments, for example, the co-operability of the first panel 20 with the second panel 20 is such that: the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38 and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart 66, of the second panel 20, are configurable for disposition in the relative movement interference relationship, wherein, in the relative movement interference relationship: the interacting portion 25 is disposed in the interference-effective deformed configuration; and the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38 is bearing against the second panel-defined interacting counterpart 66, such that there is established: (i) an interference, to relative movement, between the first panel 20 and the second panel 20, and (ii) an urging of resistance to defeating of the relative movement interference relationship by the bias of the interacting portion 25.

[0061] In some embodiments, for example, while the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38 and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart 66 are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38 is disposed in snap fit engagement with the second panel-defined interacting counterpart 66, such that the interference, to relative movement, between the first panel 20 and the second panel 20, is established.

[0062] In some embodiments, for example, while the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38 and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart 66 are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38 and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart 66 are disposed in opposing relationship.

[0063] In some embodiments, for example, as illustrated in FIG. 2, FIG. 2A, and FIG. 3, the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38 defines a first panel-defined opposing surface 39 and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart 66 defines a second panel-defined opposing surface 67, and, while the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38 and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart 66 are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, the first panel-defined opposing surface 39 and the second panel-defined opposing surface 67 are disposed in opposing relationship.

[0064] In some embodiments, for example, the front facing surface 28 defines a planar surface, and, while the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38 and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart 66 are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, an axis, normal to the first panel-defined opposing surface 39, is parallel to an axis that is normal to the planar front facing surface 28.

[0065] In some embodiments, for example, the front facing surface 28 is a planar surface, the covering portion 26 defines a front-facing covering portion surface 27 that is a planar surface, as illustrated in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5, and while the interacting portion 25 is disposed in the interference-effective deflected configuration, the front-facing covering portion 27 is co-planar with the planar front facing surface 28.

[0066] In some embodiments, for example, the bias of the interacting portion 25 urges resistance to defeating of the relative movement interference relationship of the first panel 20 and the second panel 20.

[0067] In some embodiments, for example, the bias of the interacting portion 25 is a material bias of the interacting portion 25.

[0068] In some embodiments, for example, the transitioning of the interacting portion 25 from the pre-deformation configuration to the interference-effective deformed configuration is effected by elastic deformation of the interacting portion 25. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the interacting portion 25 is elastically deformable.

[0069] In some embodiments, for example, as illustrated in FIG. 6, the deformability of the at least a portion of the interacting portion 25 from the pre-deformation configuration, shown in solid lines in FIG. 6, is also for effectuating transitioning of the interacting portion 25 to a transitioning-effective deformed configuration, shown in stippled lines in FIG. 6. While the interacting portion 25 is disposed in the transitioning-effective deformed configuration, and the second panel 20 is disposed in a co-operative alignment with the interacting portion 25, the interacting portion 25 is urged, by the bias of the interacting portion 25, for displacement, relative to the second panel 20, with effect that the interacting portion 25 of the first panel 20 becomes disposed in the interference-effective deformed configuration.

[0070] In some embodiments, for example, the transitioning of the interacting portion 25 from the pre-deformation configuration to the transitioning-effective deformed configuration includes a forwardly displacement of the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38. In some embodiments, for example, the forwardly displacement of the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38 for transitioning of the interacting portion 25 from the pre-deformation configuration to the transitioning-effective deformed configuration is a displacement of the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38 in a forwardly direction. In some embodiments, for example, the forwardly displacement of the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38 for transitioning of the interacting portion 25 from the pre-deformation configuration to the transitioning-effective deformed configuration includes a displacement of the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38 by a distance of at least 0.060 inches in a forwardly direction. In some embodiments, for example, the forwardly displacement of the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38 for transitioning of the interacting portion 25 from the pre-deformation configuration to the transitioning-effective deformed configuration includes a displacement of the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38 by a distance that is from 0.060 inches to 0.300 inches, in a forwardly direction. In some embodiments, for example, the forwardly displacement of the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38 for transitioning of the interacting portion 25 from the pre-deformation configuration to the transitioning-effective deformed configuration includes a displacement of the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38 by a distance of 0.1125 inches, in a forwardly direction.

[0071] In some embodiments, for example, the transitioning of the interacting portion 25 from the pre-deformation configuration to the transitioning-effective deformed configuration is effected by elastic deformation of the interacting portion 25.

[0072] In some embodiments, for example, the transitioning of the interacting portion 25 from the transitioning-effective deformed configuration to the interference-effective deformed configuration is effected by elastic deformation of the interacting portion 25.

[0073] In some embodiments, for example, while the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38 and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart 66 are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, and the second panel 20 is connected to a wall with a fastener 16, the covering portion 26 of the first panel 20 is covering the fastener 16.

[0074] In some embodiments, for example, the covering of the fastener 16 by the covering portion 26 of the first panel 20 is occluding of the fastener 16 by the covering portion 26 of the first panel 20.

[0075] In some embodiments, for example, the covering of the fastener 16 by the covering portion 26 of the first panel 20 is concealing of the fastener by the covering portion 26 of the first panel 20.

[0076] In some embodiments, for example, while the panel 20 is defining the first panel 20, which is co-operable with the second panel 20, the mountability of the panel 20 to the wall, for which the panel 20 is configured, is independent of its co-operability with the second panel 20.

[0077] In some embodiments, for example, a fastener 16 is receivable by the panel 20 for mounting of the panel 20 to a wall, such that the mountability of the panel 20 to the wall, for which the panel 20 is configured, is based upon the receiving of the fastener 16 by the panel 20. In some embodiments, for example, the receiving is with effect that the fastener 16 extends through the panel 20.

[0078] FIG. 2A illustrates the interacting portion 25 in accordance with an example embodiment. In some embodiments, for example, the covering flange portion 26 of the interacting portion 25 projects downwardly from the panel body front surface 28 a distance that is from 0.45 inches to two (2) inches (such as, for example, one (1) inch to two (2) inches), and which is selected to overlie an upper edge portion of a lower horizontally adjacent panel 20 or dry wall sheet 10. In some embodiments, for example, the covering flange portion 26 is provided having generally the same dimensional thickness as the front surface 28, which, in some embodiments, for example, provides the flange portion 26 with a degree of resilient or elastic deformation. In some embodiments, for example, the front covering flange portion 26 extends downwardly from the panel body 22, tapering rearwardly from the front panel plane PF towards the rear panel plane PR by a distance D that is from 0.030 inches to 0.150 inches (such as, for example, 0.040 inches and 0.080 inches) to a lowermost bottom edge 36. In some embodiments, for example, the front covering flange portion 26 extends downwardly from the panel body 22, tapering rearwardly from the front panel plane PF towards the rear panel plane PR by a distance D of 0.0625 inches. In some embodiments, for example, the rearwardly projecting rib 38 extends from the lowermost bottom edge 36 of the covering flange portion 26. In some embodiments, for example, the rib 38 is configured for either bearing engaging contact with the front facing surface of a next lower positioned sheet of dry wall 10, or against part of the upper connecting portion 24 of next adjacent lower panel 20. In some embodiments, for example, the covering flange portion 26 has a thickness selected such that the interacting portion 25 is resiliently deformable for movement between an unbiased position, or the pre-deformation configuration, shown in solid lines in FIG. 2A, where the bottom edge portion 36 is spaced rearwardly relative to the front panel plane PF, and a biased position, or the interference-effective deformed configuration, shown in stippled lining in FIG. 2A, wherein the bottom panel edge portion 36 is moved forwardly therefrom, and into generally co-planar alignment with the plane PF.

[0079] In some embodiments, for example, the second panel-defined interacting counterpart 66, for example, the longitudinally extending notch 66, is defined by the arm member 62, as illustrated in FIG. 3 to FIG. 5. In some embodiments, for example, the notch 66 is adopted to receive therein in a complimentary fit arrangement therein, the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38, for example, the rib 38, of the next horizontally adjacent panel 20.

[0080] In some embodiments, for example, the deformability of the at least a portion the interacting portion 25 is such that the at least a portion of the interacting portion 25 is deflectable. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the interacting portion 25 is urged by a bias to a pre-deflection configuration, and the interacting portion is deflectable from the pre-deflection configuration to an interference-effective deflected configuration. While the first panel-defined interacting counterpart 38 of a first panel 20 and the second panel-defined interacting counterpart 66 of a second panel 20 are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, the interacting portion 25 of the first panel 20 is disposed in the interference-effective deflected configuration, and interference, to relative movement, between the first panel 20 and the second panel 20, is established.

[0081] In some embodiments, for example, the deflectability of the at least a portion of the interacting portion 25 from the pre-deflection configuration, is also for effectuating transitioning of the interacting portion 25 to a transitioning-effective deflected configuration. In some embodiments, for example. the interacting portion 25 is deflectable from the pre-deflection configuration to a transitioning-effective deflected configuration, such that a deflection of the interacting portion, from the pre-deflection configuration to the transitioning-effective deflected configuration, is obtainable. In some embodiments, for example, while the interacting portion 25 is disposed in the transitioning-effective deflected configuration, and the second panel 20 is disposed in a co-operative alignment with the interacting portion 25, the interacting portion 25 is urged, by the bias, for displacement, relative to the second panel 20, with effect that the first panel 20 becomes disposed in the interference-effective deflected configuration.

[0082] FIG. 1 illustrates the completion of a finished wall 6 which incorporates panel wall assembly 8 in accordance with an example embodiment. Initially, one or more sheets of dry wall 10 are secured to the wall studs 12 to a desired height. Typically, the dry wall sheets 10 will extend vertically 3 to 6 feet from the floor 4. Following placement and securement of the sheets 10, the bevel groove 14 is formed along the rearward top edge of the dry wall sheet 10.

[0083] A first organizer panel 20 is then mounted horizontally against the dry wall sheet 10 in the position shown in FIG. 3 by locating the panel boss 34 in the bevel groove 14, and inserting screw fasteners 16 through the fastener pierceable body 54 into the studs 12. So positioned, the lower coveting flange portion 26 of the panel 20 is thus provided in resilient bearing contact with, and overlapping the upper edge of the dry wall panel 10, providing a prefinished appearance.

[0084] The remainder of the wall panel assembly 8 may then be completed by assembling subsequent organizer panels 20 in a horizontally stacked edge-to-edge relationship to provide the wall panel assembly 8 of a desired vertical height. As each next panel 20 is positioned, the boss 34 of the next adjacent panel 20 received in the channel groove 60 of the underlying panel 20, the shoulder member 56 of the underlying panel 20 is received in the channel groove 61 of the adjacent panel, and screw fasteners 16 are inserted through the fastener pierceable body 54 and into the studs 12 in the manner shown in FIG. 4. As each subsequent organizer panel 20 is positioned, the lower covering flange portion 26 overlies part of the upper connecting portion 24 of the adjacent lower panel, such that boss 38 of the covering flange portion 26 is provided in engaging contact within the arm notch 66 in a resilient fit, and the fastener 16 is covered by the covering flange portion 26.

[0085] In some embodiments, for example, the panel body 22, reinforcing wall 46, body 54 and arm member 62 define an L-shaped retention groove 64 therebetween.

[0086] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 4 with the positioning of the panels 20 in the stacked relationship, the panels 20 allow for suitable hangar members 80 to be suspended in a cam-fit arrangement within each L-shaped retention groove 64.

[0087] FIG. 4 shows an example embodiment of a hangar member 80 as including a generally planar back surface 82, which is configured for juxtaposed placement flush against the front surface 28 of the panel body 22, and further including a hooked end portion 84. The hooked end portion 84 includes a horizontal web 86 which extends from the upper edge of the hangar back 82 to an innermost finger 90. In some embodiments, for example, the finger 90 projects upwardly from the inner end of the horizontal web 86 at a forward angle α of between 60 and 85 degrees, for example, between 70 and 80 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the finger 90 is configured so that the upper edge of the finger 90 engages the inner rearward surface of the arm member 62 within the retention slot 64.

[0088] The applicant has appreciated that the angular orientation of the finger 90 relative to the horizontal web 86 facilitates the positioning of the hangar member back 82 more fully against the front surface 28 of the panel body 22, when a load is suspended from the hangar member 80.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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).

[0091] Although the embodiments have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions and alterations could be made herein.

[0092] 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.

[0093] As can be understood, the examples described above and illustrated are intended to be examples only. The invention is defined by the appended claims.