FIELD OF INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a decorative joint system for use in decorative
or architectural features for the ornamentation or finishing of a room or other environment,
and in particular, although not exclusively, to decorative systems for use as skirting,
architraving, picture rails, chair rails, and dado rails.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] A variety of skirting systems, picture rails, dado rails and other such decorative
or finishing items or assemblies are known. In certain known systems, the elongate
members in the form of skirting boards, one-piece picture rails or other such rails
are affixed to walls by simply nailing, or by drilling and screwing into the wall.
The accurate positioning and attachment of such elongate members represents a problem,
and one that may require a significant amount of skill to overcome. Also, when such
elongate members are attached to a wall (and it will be understood that the term wall
is being used here in a very general sense, and for example in the case of architraving
may refer to a surface around a doorway, which may be horizontal or vertical) it is
necessary to exercise care when decorating; the elongate members are typically left
in place when decorating, and care must be taken not to adversely effect the finish
of the elongate members, for example by splashing them with paint used to decorate
the adjacent wall surfaces. Thus, with such existing decorative systems a significant
amount of skill is required to decorate a wall or environment in which they are affixed.
In addition such prior art systems are not easily replaced in part or whole when an
alternative profile or aesthetic impact is desired.
[0003] In
DE4036712 there is disclosed an edging strip for a wall base, which has a rigid recycled PVC
support and two attachable flexible PVC covers which can be rolled up.
[0004] In
US6513289 there is disclosed a plastic retaining clip for trunking, which includes a fixing
base attached locally to a longitudinal wall of a base section of the trunking and
a retaining flap which is articulated to the fixing base and can move from a standby
position, in which it allows unrestricted access to the underlying interior volume
of the base section, to a service position, in which it closes that interior volume
at least partly, extending substantially transversely relative to it.
[0005] In
GB2174254 there is disclosed a surface mount trunking system having a backing plate adapted
to receive numerous system components which may be snap-fitted.
[0006] In
EP0637864 there is disclosed a PVC raceway assembly which includes a base and removable cover
defining internal channels with discrete conductive shields mounted in each channel
and a latching member is removably mounted between the cover and the base continuously
along coextending lengths of the latching member and the cover, the latching member
being in interfering relation to cover movements required for removal of the cover
from the base.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The present invention aims to provide decorative systems, which obviate or mitigate
at least one of the problems associated with the prior art. Particular embodiments
aim to provide decorative systems, which are both aesthetically pleasing and yet are
relatively easy to fit and which facilitate subsequent decorating and if desired may
easily be replaced. In preferred embodiments the present invention provides a new
joint system, which enables in particular, but not exclusively, wood based decorative
or architectural features to be assembled as an alternative to conventional wood based
decorative or architectural features. The new joint system is of particular benefit
for the assembly of wooden wood based decorative or architectural systems such as
skirting boards, picture rails, dido rails, architrave, chair rails and the like.
[0008] According to the present invention there is provided a joint system for decorative
or architectural features comprising: an assembly comprising a first elongate member
and a second elongate member, and support means adapted for attachment to a wall to
provide support for the assembly, the first elongate member being adapted to be attached
to the support means via a first attachment means in a first position in which the
first elongate member is in contact with the support and in part is in contact with
the wall, the second elongate member attached to the support via a second attachment
means in a second position in which the second elongate member is in contact with
the support and in part is in contact with the wall substantially parallel to the
first elongate member attached in the first position.
[0009] The first and second elongate members and support means are adapted to interlock
with each other ether directly or indirectly. This interlocking arrangement provides
for a robust joint between the components, which under suitable applied pressure to
the second elongate member may easily be separated.
[0010] In further embodiments the support means may be adapted for attachment to a wall
along a desired line to provide support for the assembly along said line. In this
arrangement the first and second elongate members may extend along the desired line
when the support means is attached to the wall.
[0011] In further embodiments the first attachment means may be arranged to non-releasably
or irreversibly attach the first elongate member to one or more support means. The
support means may comprise an elongate support member, and this may be supplied in
a form with the first elongate member pre-attached, e.g. with adhesive and/or with
another form of attachment means between the support and first elongate member. In
this embodiment a single support means may be attached to a single first elongate
member. In a further embodiment there may be a plurality of support means attached
to a single first elongate member. In a further embodiment there may be a plurality
of first elongate members attached to a single support means.
[0012] In further embodiments the first attachment means may be arranged to releasably attach
the first elongate member to the support means. For example, the first attachment
means may be adapted such that the first elongate member is attachable to the support
means by aligning the first elongate member in a position spaced from the wall in
front of the support means attached to the wall and translating the aligned first
elongate member towards the wall to said first position.
[0013] In further embodiments the second attachment means may be adapted to releasably attach
the second elongate member to the support means attached to a wall. For example, the
second attachment means may be arranged such that the second elongate member is attachable
to the support means by firstly positioning the second elongate member against the
wall and alongside the support means, the second elongate member extending in a direction
generally parallel to the desired line, and secondly translating the second elongate
member from this initial position towards the support in a plane parallel to the wall
surface and into engagement with the support.
[0014] In further embodiments the support means comprises an elongate support member having
a longitudinal axis. Then, the support member may comprise a plurality of fixing apertures
spaced apart along said longitudinal axis for receiving fixing screws to attach the
support member to a wall. For example, the plurality of fixing apertures may comprise
a plurality of fixing slots, each fixing slot extending generally transversely to
the longitudinal axis.
[0015] In further embodiments the first attachment means comprises an attachment members
provided on the support member, and arranged to protrude in a direction generally
away from a wall to which the support member is attached, and a corresponding recesses
provided on the first elongate member to receive and engage the attachment member
when the first elongate member is in the first position. In further embodiments the
first attachment means may comprise a plurality of attachment members provided on
the support member, and arranged to protrude in a direction generally away from a
wall to which the support member is attached, and a plurality of corresponding recesses
provided on the first elongate member to receive and engage the plurality of attachment
members when the first elongate member is in the first position. The attachment member
may comprise a rib protruding from a surface of the support member and extending along
a length of the support member. The corresponding recess may, for example, comprise
a longitudinal slot.
[0016] In further embodiments the first attachment means comprises a second attachment member
e.g. rib protruding from a surface of the support member and extending along a length
of the support member, in parallel arrangement to the first attachment member or rib,
and a second corresponding recess e.g. longitudinal slot, provided on the first elongate
member.
[0017] In further embodiments the first attachment means comprises adhesive arranged to
attach the first elongate member to the support member.
[0018] In further embodiments the second attachment means comprises one or more attachment
members provided on the support member, and arranged to protrude in a direction generally
parallel to a wall to which the support member is attached, and one or more corresponding
attachment members e.g. recesses, provided on the second elongate member to receive
and engage the attachment member(s) of the support member when the second elongate
member is in the second position. The attachment member of the second attachment means
may, for example, comprise a rib attachment member extending along a length of the
support member. The corresponding recess on the second elongate member may then comprise
a longitudinal slot.
[0019] In further embodiments the rib attachment member of the second attachment means is
arranged so as to be spaced from and parallel to a surface of a wall to which the
support member is attached. In this embodiment the corresponding recess on the second
elongate member is also arranged to be parallel to the surface of the wall.
[0020] In further embodiments the support member and assembly are adapted such that when
the assembly members are attached to the support means, at least one longitudinal
channel for routing a wire or cable is defined between the support member and at least
one of the elongate members.
[0021] In further embodiments the first and second elongate members are adapted such that
when attached to the support means in the first and second positions, a surface of
the first elongate member abuts a surface of the second elongate member.
[0022] In further embodiments one of the first and second elongate members comprises a mating
rib preferably elongate and the other one of the first and second elongate members
comprises a corresponding mating slot or recess preferably elongate for receiving
and engaging the mating rib, the arrangement being such that when the first and second
elongate members are attached to the support means in the first and second positions,
the mating rib is received in and engaged by the mating slot. There may be a plurality
of mating ribs and corresponding mating slots on each one of the first and second
elongate members. Preferably, there is a single mating rib and corresponding mating
slot on one of the first and second elongate members. The mating rib and slot may
be substantially rectangular in cross-section or preferably may be a taper fit with
each other.
[0023] In a further embodiment the first attachment means of the support may comprise a
second attachment member arranged to protrude from the support in a direction generally
parallel to a wall to which the support member is attached. This second attachment
member of the first attachment means may, for example like the first attachment member
of the second attachment means, comprise a rib attachment member extending along a
length of the support member. Likewise the second rib attachment member of the first
attachment means may be arranged so as to be spaced from and parallel to a surface
of a wall to which the support member is attached. The corresponding recess for the
second attachment means on the first elongate member is also arranged to be parallel
to the surface of the wall. However, this second rib attachment member is orientated
to be in the opposing direction to that of the first attachment member on the support,
which is associated with the second attachment means. This second attachment member
engages with a slot provided in the first elongate member, which is preferably proximate
to the mating slot of the first elongate member. In a preferred embodiment this slot
is associated with the mating slot of the first elongate member, which accommodates
the mating rib of the second elongate member. In this embodiment the mating slot of
the first elongate member is modified to accommodate both the mating rib of the second
elongate member and the rib of the second attachment member.
[0024] In further embodiments the second elongate members comprises at least one mating
surface e.g. a slot, located on an internal surface exposed to the support means and
the support means comprises a resilient mating rib extending from a support means
surface exposed to the second elongate member. During engagement of the second elongate
member with the support means the resilient mating rib deforms to enable it to be
placed into locking engagement with the mating surface. In a preferred embodiment
this locking feature is present in the assembly in cooperative combination with the
second attachment means and the elongate mating rib/elongate mating slot arrangement
between the first and second members. In further embodiments the second elongate member
has an engagement surface, which is contacted by the mating rib before it engages
with the mating surface, during assembly of the joint. This engagement surface may
be a sloped region preceding the mating slot and which forms a surface from the mating
rib of the second elongate member and the mating surface. In a further embodiment
this engagement surface may also comprise a point narrowing proximate to the mating
surface and this may be present in combination with the sloped region. This point
narrowing reduces the distance between the second elongate member and the support
means compared to the distance between the mating surface and the support means.
[0025] The joint may be assembled in various ways. The support is attached to a wall or
solid surface and the first elongate member is secured to the support. At this point
the second elongate member may be brought into contact with the support and first
elongate member to effect the joint. In one embodiment the one or more attachment
means e.g. ribs provided on the support member and the corresponding attachment means
e.g. slots or recesses on the second elongate member are brought into contact with
each other at the same time as the elongate mating rib of the second elongate member
is brought into contact with the elongate mating slot of the first elongate member.
In this position the second elongate member is now engaged with both the support and
the first elongate member and the joint is partially formed. In one embodiment at
this stage the resilient mating rib may be in contact (substantially non-deformed
contact) with a sloping engagement surface or point narrowing on the second elongate
member. In an alternative embodiment the resilient mating rib may not be in contact
with the second elongate member at this point but is brought into contact with a sloping
engagement surface or point narrowing on the second elongate member as this member
is further moved into engagement with the support and first elongate member. As engagement
proceeds, once the resilient mating rib is in contact with the second elongate member,
the resilient mating rib deforms and is eventually lockingly engaged with the mating
surface of the second elongate member as it is fully engaged with the support and
first elongate member.
[0026] During assembly engagement of the second elongate member with both the support means
and the first elongate member prior to significant deformation of the resilient mating
rib ensures that there is a relatively limited degree of spatial i.e. lateral movement
perpendicular to the plane of engagement of the second elongate member relative to
the support means and first elongate member. After this point in order for assembly
to be completed the mating rib of the support, which is made of resilient material
must deform in contact with the sloping engagement surface so that it may move into
contact and engagement with the mating surface or if present to move past the region
of narrowing in order to engage with the mating surface. In a further embodiment the
surface of the second elongate member upon which the mating surface is located is
not parallel to the support. In a further embodiment there is a stopping surface associated
with the matting surface such that during assembly the mating rib engages with the
mating surface and abuts the stopping surface. In a further embodiment the support
is resilient and is preferably manufactured from a resilient plastic, which is capable
of being deformed during assembly of the joint. The use of such a support aids the
locking mechanism by allowing the support to partially accommodate some of the deformation
force, which would otherwise be accommodated by the resilient mating rib of the support
thus putting less pressure on the resilient mating rib during assembly of the joint.
When assembly is completed the resilient support and resilient mating rib are in the
non-deformed state.
[0027] In further embodiments at least one of the assembly's elongate members is a moulding.
[0028] In further embodiment the assembly does not comprise a separate support means and
first elongate member. In this embodiment the function of the support member and first
elongate member are provided by a single assembly component having both functions.
In this embodiment instead of two separate mouldings there is provided a single moulding.
[0029] In further embodiments the joint system comprises an additional component being a
third elongate member and a third attachment means adapted to attach the third elongate
member to the support means, when the support means is attached to the wall, in a
third position in which the third elongate member extends along the line, alongside
and substantially parallel to the first and second elongate members attached in the
first and second positions. In this embodiment first and second elongate members may
be arranged to engage with the third elongate member to form the joint. In one embodiment
the first and second elongate members may be identical and both have the features
of a first elongate member as hereinbefore described. In this embodiment the third
elongate member incorporates features of the second elongate member as hereinbefore
described, which are necessary to enable the first elongate members to engage and
lock with the support and third elongate member. The third elongate member may be
symmetrical offering these locking features proximate at two of its opposing edges.
The resulting joint may therefore be symmetrical about the third elongate member.
[0030] The joint system may be incorporated into such decorative or architectural systems
as skirting boards, picture rails, dido rails, architrave, chair rails, framing, cornicing
and the like.
[0031] In a further embodiment when the joint is used in a skirting board arrangement the
skirting board arrangement may comprise a cable management recess, which is located
in the first elongate member at a surface, which is proximate to a floor on completion
of the skirting board assembly.
[0032] The support may be of varying lengths, which correspond with the lengths of the first,
second and/or third elongate members. The support may longer or shorter in length
than the first, second and/or third elongate members; in this arrangement short sections
of support may be bridged by longer sections of the first, second and/or third elongate
members. It is therefore possible to extend the decorative or architectural feature
to any desirable length incorporating first, second and/or third elongate members
of the same or of varying lengths. Lengths of first, second and/or third elongate
member, may bridge the join between adjacent support members. The support members
may be spaced apart or may be arranged such that their ends abut each other.
[0033] The support is preferably manufactured from plastic. The various members attached
to the support and each other may be manufactured form plastic e.g. extrusions or
moldings, wood or MDF and the like. It is preferred that they are manufactured from
wood.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0034] For a better understanding of the invention, and to show how the same may be carried
into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example, to various specific embodiments
of the invention as shown in the accompanying diagrammatic drawings, in which:
[0035] Fig 1 is an exploded view of components of a skirting system embodying the invention;
[0036] Fig 2 is a perspective view of the system from Fig 1 partially assembled;
[0037] Fig 3 is a perspective view of the components of the skirting system of Fig 1 in
assembled form;
[0038] Fig 4a is a schematic view of a support member of the decorative system embodying
the invention fixed to a wall;
[0039] Fig 4b is a schematic view of part of another decorative system embodying the invention
and attached to a wall;
[0040] Fig 5 is an exploded view of components of an architrave system embodying the invention;
[0041] Figs 6 and 7 are perspective views of the architrave system of Fig 5 shown respectively
in partially assembled and assembled form;
[0042] Fig 8 is an exploded view of the components of a picture rail system embodying the
invention;
[0043] Figs 9 and 10 are perspective views of the picture rail system of Fig 8 shown respectively
in partially assembled and fully assembled form;
[0044] Fig 11 is an exploded view of the components of a chair rail system embodying the
invention;
[0045] Figs 12 and 13 respectively show the chair rail system of Fig 11 in partially assembled
and then assembled form;
[0046] Fig 14 is a cross section of an elongate support member of a decorative system embodying
the invention. and
[0047] Fig 15 is an exploded view of components of a skirting system embodying the invention;
[0048] Fig 16 is a perspective view of the components of the skirting system of Fig 15 in
assembled form;
[0049] Fig 17 is an exploded view of components of an architrave system embodying the invention;
[0050] Figs 18 is a perspective view of the architrave system of Fig 17 shown in assembled
form; and
[0051] Fig 19 is a cross section of an elongate support member of a decorative system embodying
the invention as used in the skirting systems and architrave system of Figures 15
to 18.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0052] Referring now to Figures 1, 2, 3 and 4, a decorative system embodying the joint of
the invention is a skirting system, which comprises a skirting board assembly comprising
a first elongate member 1 and a second elongate member 2. The first elongate member
1 can also be described as a skirting board, and the second elongate member 2 can
be described as an elongate moulding. These two components 1, 2 assemble together
to form the skirting assembly. In Figures 1, 2 and 3, only relatively short lengths
of these elongate components are shown for simplicity, but it will be appreciated
that in practice these components may be supplied in relatively long lengths and may
then be cut to size to suit the particular application. The skirting system also comprises
support means in the form of an elongate support member 4 (again only a relatively
short section of the elongate support member 4 is shown in Figs 1, 2 and 3 for simplicity,
but it will also typically be supplied in long lengths for purchase and then cutting
to the desired length). In this first embodiment the support member 4 has been formed
by an extrusion process from plastic, and the first member 1 and the moulding member
2 are formed from wood. The support member may be made from extruded aluminium although
plastic is preferred. The support may be made from co-extruded aluminium/rubber. The
first elongate member 1 is elongate in the sense that it extends along a respective
longitudinal axis A1. Similarly, the second elongate member 2 (a moulding) extends
along its respective longitudinal axis A2, and the support member 4 extends along
its longitudinal axis A4.
[0053] In this first embodiment, the support member 4 is separable from the first and second
elongate members, but, as will be appreciated from the description below (especially
with reference to figure 4b), in alternative embodiments the support member 4 and
first elongate member 1 may be supplied in pre-attached form, that is secured together
with adhesive or some other means. The support member 4 in this first embodiment comprises
a generally flat (planar) base or wall portion 41 having a rear face 412 for positioning
against a wall to which the support member is to be attached, and a front face 411.
Spaced apart along a length of the support member 4 are a plurality of fixing apertures,
which in this example are fixing slots 417 which extend in a direction generally transverse
to the longitudinal axis A4 of the support member 4. Thus, to attach the support member
4 to a wall screws may be used, passing through these slots 417 and then either directly
into the wall, or into a rawl plug provided in a hole drilled in the wall. Advantageously,
by utilising fixing holes in the form of slots 417, correct alignment of the support
member 4 on a wall is facilitated as the slots provide some degree of movement of
the support member on the fixing screws, the positioning of which is therefore less
crucial. With reference to Fig 4, this shows a length of support member 4 positioned
along (i.e. with respect to) a desired line L1 on a wall W1. The support member 4
has been cut to length, and it will be seen that it is not essential for the support
member 4 to extend completely to the edges of the wall W1 at the corners C. This facilitates
the fitting procedure. Although not shown in the figure, two or more screws may then
be used to affix the support member 4 to the wall W1 through two or more of the fixing
slots 417. Additional support members 4 may then be attached to the side walls W2
and W3 along lines L2 and L3 so that suitable lengths of the first and second elongate
members 1, 2 can be attached to a support member to provide a continuous skirting
assembly around the corners. Advantageously, it would be appreciated that the lower
of the two elongate members of the skirting assembly (i.e. the board member 1) need
not be mitred in the corners; instead it can be square-cut so that the portions of
board 1 meeting in the corners simply abut each other at right angles. Only the moulding
component 2, which is positioned on top of the board component 1 need by mitred. When
the mitred moulding components 2 are clicked in place, they cover the joint between
the board component 1 beneath and give the finished system an attractive appearance.
[0054] Referring again to Figures 1, 2 and 3 in more detail, the first elongate member (i.e.
the skirting board component 1) has a substantially flat front face 11 and a rear
face 12. A first portion of this rear face 121 is recessed to accommodate the thickness
of the base or plate portion 31 of the support member such that a second portion 122
of the rear face 12 can abut against the wall surface to which the base portion 41
is attached. The skirting system comprises first attachment means for attaching the
first member 1 to the support member 4. This first attachment means comprises a pair
of parallel and longitudinally extending ribs 413, 414 which protrude forwards from
the front face 411 of the base portion 41 of the support member 4, and a corresponding
pair of longitudinally extending grooves or channels 103, 104 which are cut into the
rear face 12 of the first elongate member 1 (i.e. they extend from the surface of
the first portion 121 of the rear face, into the body of the first elongate member
1 to a desired depth. These grooves or channels 103, 104 are positioned so as to enable
the first elongate member 1 to be push-fitted onto the support member 4 when that
member is attached to a wall, with the ribs 413, 414 being received in channels 103
and 104 respectively. The ribs 413, 414 and channels 103, 104 are dimensioned such
that they form an interference fit which is able to hold the first member 1 to the
support member 4 with sufficient force. Conveniently, however, in this first embodiment
the first elongate member 1 (i.e. the skirting board main component) can be relatively
easily detached at a later time by simply pulling it away from the wall. Thus, the
skirting board member 1 can be attached to the support member 4 by simply aligning
the channels 103, 104 with the ribs 413, 414 and then translating the first member
1 in direction generally perpendicular to the wall to which the support member is
attached (e.g. in a horizontal direction). In alternative embodiments, however, the
first member 1 may be glued to the support member (pre-glued, as supplied to the user,
or indeed glued in place after assembly by the user) so that it is non-removable.
[0055] A lower face 14 of the skirting board member 1 is provided with a cut-out 141 for
receiving the edge of a carpet, or other flooring material. To the rear of this cut-out
141 a portion 1001 of the board member 1 extends downwards, and has a flat lower surface
1000. Advantageously, when the system is fitted to a wall, this surface 1000 is arranged
to abut, i.e. rest upon, the floor or flooring material surface. Friction between
this floor-engaging surface 1000 then prevents the lower end of the skirting board
member 1 from slipping or otherwise moving forward, away from the wall. The cut-out
141 enables the edge of flooring material or floor covering material (e.g. carpet)
to be accommodated under the board, giving a neat finish, whilst the friction surface
1000 is still in contact with the floor to prevent slipping away of the board 1 from
the wall. The surface 1000 may, in certain embodiments, be adapted to increase friction
with a floor, e.g. it may be coated or otherwise provided with friction-increasing
material such as rubber. An upper face 13 of the skirting board member 1 comprises
relatively flat portions 131 and 132 on either side of a groove or channel 133 which
extends generally vertically downwards into the skirting board member from the upper
face 13 to a desired depth. This groove or channel 133 also runs along the length
of the elongate member 1 (i.e. it extends along the longitudinal axis A1) but the
sides of this slot 133 are generally vertical, and hence are at substantially ninety
degrees to the sides of the slots 103 and 104 forming part of the first attachment
means. The purpose of this slot 133 is to receive a corresponding rib or flange 241
provided on the second elongate member 2 (i.e. the upper moulding component). This
rib 241 extends generally downwards from the body of the moulding 2 and also extends
along the moulding's length. A front face 21 of the upper member 2 has a shaped, decorative
profile. The rear face 22 of the upper member 2 comprises an upper, substantially
flat portion 221 for abutting against a wall surface. The rear face 22 is then cut
away from this flat portion 221. The skirting system is then provided with second
attachment means for attaching the second elongate member 2 to the support member
4. The second attachment means comprises a longitudinal rib or wall 416 provided on
the support member 4 which runs along the upper edge of the support member 4 along
its length but is spaced forwards from the base or wall portion 41 and is arranged
so that its sides are generally parallel to the rear surface 412. The second attachment
means then also comprises a longitudinal groove or channel 222 provided in the rear
face 22 of the second elongate member 22 and facing downwards so as to receive and
engage the upwardly directed rib 416 on the support member. Referring in particular
to Figure 2, the skirting board component 1 is shown fixed to the support member,
with the first attachment means ribs 413 and 414 received in the respective slots
103 and 104. The board 1 has been fixed in this position by movement in the horizontal
direction, indicated by arrow H. In this example, this movement has been performed
after attaching the support to the wall, but in other examples it may have been done
during manufacture of a combined support member and skirting board component, bonded
together. Then, to attach the moulding member 2 it is first of all positioned above
the support member 4 with the flat portion 221 of the rear face positioned against
the wall. Then, the second member 2 simply has to be lowered down such that the upwardly
directed rib 416 is received within the downwardly directed slot 222. At the same
time the downwardly directed rib 241 of the upper member 2 is received within the
upwardly directed slot 133 in the top face of the skirting board member 1.
[0056] Referring now to Fig 3 in particular, the two components 1, 2 of the skirting assembly
are shown assembled and attached to the support member 4. In this position, a shallow
longitudinal groove 224 having a part-circular cross section is located on a further
transverse rib 415 of support member 4, and provides a matting surface for the transverse
rib 415. This shallow channel 224 extends horizontally into the body of the upper
member 2 from a substantially flat surface 223, part of which forms one side wall
of the channel 222 and which is parallel to, but spaced forward from the flat, wall
engaging portion 221 of the upper member 2. This shallow groove and its engagement
with the rib 415 assists in the assembly and then correct seating of the components
on the support member 4. As will be seen from Fig 3, with the first and second elongate
members 1, 2 assembled together and attached to the support member 4, two channels
C1 and C2 and defined inside the assembled system. Advantageously, these channels
C1, C2 can be used for the routing of wires or cables within the assembled system,
out of sight therefore not detracting from the aesthetic appeal of the system. In
one embodiment the rib 415 may be rubber as part of a co-extruded aluminium/rubber
support. Preferably it is part of a plastic support.
[0057] Also from Fig 3, it will be appreciated that in this assembled form, the flat wall
engaging portion 221 of the upper moulding 2 the flat rear surface 412 of the support
member, and the flat, wall engaging portion 122 of the board member 1 are substantially
co-planar and may closely abut the surface of a wall to which the support member 4
is attached. The support member 4, which may for example be formed from extruded plastic
material, is not visible, it being completely enclosed against the wall by the skirting
assembly components 1, 2.
[0058] Advantageously, in the event that the floor covering whose edge is received in the
recess 141 is to be replaced with a floor covering of different thickness, both the
first and second elongate members 1, 2 can usually be detached from the support member
4 and then the height of the support member on the wall adjusted by loosening the
fixing screws and then utilising the range of movement provided by the fixing slots
417. Additionally, and alternatively, in order to decorate the portion of the wall
above the skirting assembly, the upper component (i.e. the moulding 2) can simply
be detached (by pushing it upwards, in the vertical direction, and then the wall painted,
wallpapered, or otherwise finished while the upper portion 2 remains removed. It is
then not necessary to be particularly accurate as the edge of the painting, wallpapering
or other finishing is next to the upper end of the support member, which is obscured
when the upper moulding 2 is refitted. Thus, when the decorating is complete the upper
moulding 2 can be refitted with the flat portion 221 of its rear face covering the
edge of the decoration.
[0059] Lastly, the system shown in Figs 1, 2 and 3 is rendered easy to fit because the skirting
board components 1 in a corner need not be mitred, whether they are secured to the
member 4 or are removable. If they are removable they can easily be push-fitted to
the support member by moving them in a direction perpendicular to the relevant wall.
Although the moulding members 2, which sit above the board portion 1 need to be mitred,
they attach to the support member 4 by movement in the vertical direction and so can
be easily slotted into place.
[0060] Referring again to Figures 1-3, it will be appreciated that the second channel C2
providing the assembled skirting system is defined between a portion of the flat surface
223 of the upper member 2, a side wall of the upper transverse rib 415, a side wall
of the transverse portion on which the upwardly directed rib 416 is arranged, and
the portion of the front surface 411 of the base portion 41 of the support member
4 between those side walls. The first cavity or channel C1 is defined between an upper
surface 131 of the skirting member 1, a portion of the rear surface 22 of the upper
member 2, a portion of the front face 411 of the support member 4, and the lower sidewall
of the rib 415. From Fig 3 in particular, it will be appreciated that in the assembled
arrangement, a flat surface portion 242 of the upper member 2 abuts the flat upper
surface 131 of the lower board portion 1. A slanted portion of the moulding surface
225 connects this abutting surface 242 to the rear facing flat surface 223 in which
the shallow groove 224 is provided.
[0061] In the first embodiment described above, the first attachment means comprising the
ribs 413, 414 and corresponding receiving slots 103, 104 was adapted to provide releasable
attachment of the first elongate member 1 to the support member 4. In alternative
embodiments, however, the first attachment means is arranged to provide non-releasable
attachment between the first elongate member 1 and the support member 4. In certain
of these alternative embodiments the first attachment means achieve this non-releasable
attachment by comprising adhesive which is arranged to bond the first elongate member
1 securely to the support member 4. Part of one of these embodiments is shown in fig
4b. In this embodiment the structure of the support member 4 and first and second
elongate member 1, 2 is generally the same as that of the embodiment illustrated in
figures 1, 2, 3 and 4, and for example the first attachment means between the support
member 4 and the first elongate member 1 again comprises a pair of ribs 413, 414 and
corresponding receiving slots 103, 104. However, the first attachment means additionally
comprises adhesive arranged to secure the first elongate member 1 to the support member
4. It will be appreciated that this adhesive may be distributed in many different
ways to achieve this effect and, for example, may have been applied to the ribs 413,
414, the surface in between the ribs, or to corresponding mating or abutting services
of the first elongate member 1 during the manufacturing process. Then, the first elongate
member 1 may be located on the attachment ribs 413, 414 such that the applied adhesive
then secures the two components together. In fig 4b the second elongate member 2 has
not yet been fitted. However, the first elongate member 1 is non-releasably attached
to the elongate support member 4. Indeed, in this embodiment the elongate support
member 4 and first elongate member 1 have been supplied in this configuration that
is with the first elongate member 1 being glued to the support, in long lengths for
cutting to suit requirements. The combination of the support member and first elongate
member has been secured to the wall W using the following method. Conveniently, locations
for fixing holes to be drilled in the wall have first of all being marked out by positioning
either the bottom edge 1410 of the rear portion of the first elongate member 1 on
the floor surface next to the wall W, or the lower edge 1411 of the front face 11
of the first elongate member 1 resting on top of a floor covering, covering the floor
adjacent the wall W. Then, the fixing slots 417 have been used as guides to mark the
wall W with the location of the fixing holes. It will be appreciated that this is
a simple and easy way to ensure that the fixing holes drilled in the wall are correctly
located to seat the bottom edge or edges of the first elongate member 1 against the
floor or floor covering. Typically, the location for each of the fixing holes will
be chosen to be generally in the middle of each vertically extending slot 417 to provide
a degree of adjustment to the precise fixing height of the assembly to the wall W.
After marking, the sub-assembly of the support member 4 and first elongate member
1 is removed from the wall, suitable fixing holes are drilled and then, typically,
rawl plugs are inserted. The support member and elongate member combination, which
will typically have already been cut to a suitable length, is then repositioned against
the wall and screws 4170 used to secure the combination to the wall by passing through
the fixing slots 417 into the rawl plugs. A slight difference between this present
embodiment and the one described with reference to figures 1-4 is that the fixing
slots 417 extend through the rib 415 of the attachment member, i.e. they interrupt
it. In the present embodiment this elongate support member 4 has been formed by the
extruding of plastic material and then the fixing slots are formed in the member,
post-extrusion. By utilising these more extensive fixing slots 417 a greater degree
of adjustment is available when fitting the decorative system. Such slots may also
be used in other embodiments, and this can also provide the advantage that even after
fitting, the more extensive slots are able to provide a relatively large amount of
movement (provided, of course, that the fixing screws are firstly loosened) for decorating
purposes. For example, if extensive fixing slots are used in picture rails systems
embodying the invention the rails may be moved a significant distance up or down to
facilitate decorating of the portions of the wall surface above and below the picture
rail. Returning to the embodiment shown in fig. 4b, this particular example is again
a skirting system, and the first elongate member 1 glued to the support member 4 is
a wooden skirting board member.
[0062] Referring now to Figures 5-7, these show another decorative system embodying the
joint of the invention. Here the decorative system is an architrave system comprising
an architrave assembly of a first elongate member 1 and a second elongate member 2,
and a support member 4. As with the first embodiment, only relatively short sections
of these elongate components are shown in the figures for simplicity. In practice,
these components will typically be supplied in long lengths for cutting to suit. The
structure of the architrave system is similar to that of the skirting system shown
in Figs 1-3, and corresponding features are given the same reference numerals. Differences
include the following. The first elongate member 1, rather than being a skirting board
component is now a first moulding having a profiled front face 11 to give a decorative
appearance. A nominal lower face (which may also be referred to as an outer face)
of the first moulding 1 is substantially flat. An upper or inner face 13 of the first
moulding 1 comprises a substantially flat portion 131 but extending generally perpendicularly
from that surface 131 is a rib or flange 105 which also extends along the length of
the moulding component 1. In this embodiment the first attachment means between the
support member 4 and the first elongate member 1 comprises just a single rib 413 (extending
outwardly from the front face 411 of the support member and running along its length)
and a corresponding single groove or slot or channel 103 extending inwardly from a
first portion 121 of the rear (or wall) face 12 of elongate member 1. The support
member 4 is again provided with fixing means, but in this example, rather than fixing
slots, the fixing means comprises one or more fixing holes 418. The second elongate
member 2 is a second elongate moulding, having a substantially flat front face 21,
a substantially flat outer side face 23, and an inner face 24 in which a longitudinal
extending slot, channel or groove 243 is provided to receive the rib 105 of the first
moulding member 1. As with the previous embodiment, the second elongate member 2 is
again provided with a fixing slot 222 and shallow groove 224 to mate respectively
with the attachment rib 416 and locating rib 415 on the support member 4. Looking
at Figure 6, this shows the first elongate moulding 1 having been push-fitted on to
the support member 4 by movement in the direction shown generally by the arrow H.
If the support member 4 is attached to a wall then this motion represents movement
in a direction generally perpendicular to the flat wall surface. In certain embodiments,
the support member 4 and elongate moulding 1 are supplied as separate components,
such that the support member 4 can be attached to a wall or other surface and the
elongate member 1 then push fitted onto it (and is later removable). In alternative
embodiments the moulding 1 may be supplied already attached securely to the support
member, for example with suitable adhesive. The second elongate moulding 2 may then
also be push-fitted on to the support member and the first moulding by movement generally
in the direction shown by the arrow V. In practice, this corresponds to positioning
the flat rear surface 221 of the second moulding member 2 against the wall and then
sliding the second moulding member 2 downwards such that the rib 416 is received in
the slot 222 and the rib 105 is received in the slot 243 with the positioning rib
415 located in the shallow groove 224. The second attachment means can provide releasable
attachment of the second moulding 2 to the support member 4. Looking in particular
now at Fig 7, this shows how again when the architrave moulding components 1, 2 are
assembled and attached to the support member 4 they mate together, cover the support
member from view, closely abut the wall surface against which the rear surface 412
of the support member is positioned, and also provide first and second channels C1,
C2 for use in the routing of cables or wires. Again, in certain embodiments both of
the architrave assembly components 1, 2 may easily be detached from the support member
4 to facilitate repositioning, and/or decorating. In other embodiments, only the second
moulding 2 may be removable.
[0063] Referring now to Figures 8-10, these show another decorative system embodying the
invention. Here the decorative system is a picture rail system comprising a picture
rail assembly comprising interlocking first and second elongate mouldings 1, 2, and
an elongate support member 4 for attachment at a desired position (i.e. along a desired
line) on a wall. Once again, only relatively short sections of the various components
are illustrated for simplicity. Also, certain features of the system correspond to
features of the skirting board systems and architrave systems described above and
are given the same reference numerals. In this embodiment, the elongate support member
4 as supplied is not provided with any preformed fixing holes or slots. However, it
can be drilled to suit requirements, or indeed can be affixed to a wall using alternative
means (such as suitable adhesives and/or pins or nails). The support member 4 again
comprises a generally flat base or plate portion 41. A longitudinally extending rib
413 is provided at an upper edge of this plate 41 and extends in a direction generally
forwards from the front face 411. This rib 413 again forms part of the first attachment
means and is received within the corresponding slot or channel 103 in the reverse
face 12 of the first elongate moulding 1. Thus, the first elongate member 1 can simply
be push-fitted onto the support member 4 by aligning its groove 103 with the rib or
flange 413 and then moving the first moulding 1 towards the wall, coming to rest in
the position shown in Fig 9 with the rearmost flat portion 122 of the upper moulding
1 positioned against the wall (i.e. co-planar with the rear surface 412 of the support
member) and the forwardly stepped flat portion 121 of the rear face 12 abutting the
front face 411 of the support member base portion 41. Alternatively, the elongate
first moulding 1 may be supplied pre-attached to the support member 4, for example
with adhesive. A relatively large downwardly directed channel 133 (which runs along
the length of the upper moulding member 1) is provided in the upper member 1 and this
is arranged to receive an upper end portion 243 of the lower moulding 2. This lower
moulding 2 has a decoratively profiled front phase 21, and a rear face, which includes
a flat portion 221 for positioning against the wall surface. The rear portion of the
lower member 2 is also provided with an attachment channel 222 to receive the downwardly
directed longitudinal rib 416 provided at the lower edge of the support member 4 as
the lower moulding 2 is slid up the wall. By moving this lower component 2 in this
manner (i.e. a direction generally shown by the arrow V in Fig 9), the upper end portion
243 of the lower member 2 is received within the slot 133. The reverse side 22 of
the lower moulding 2 is also provided with a step or shoulder 226 which runs along
the length of the member 2 and which steps toward the wall so as to provide a downward
facing abutment surface. This step or shoulder can also be regarded as a longitudinal
catch or mating surface. As the lower moulding 2 is pushed up into position, with
the rib 416 being received in the slot 222 and the end portion 243 being received
within the slot or channel 133, the step or catch 226 locates on the locating rib
415 of the support member in the position shown in Fig 10. Preferably, the rib 415
is resilient (flexible) so that it can deform as the lower moulding 2 is moved upwards
into position, and then engages with the catch 226 to help support the member 2 in
place, in cooperation with in the holding of the upper portion 243 in the groove 133.
Thus, the lower moulding is held in position (i.e. it is prevented from falling downwards).
Again from Figure 10 it can be seen that the two mouldings 1, 2 of the picture rail
assembly enclose the support member 4 and there are also convenient channels C1, C2
provided in the assembled system. The lower moulding 2 can easily be removed from
the wall- attached support member to facilitate decorating. The upper moulding 1 may
also be removable, or may be glued in place.
[0064] Referring now to Figs 11-13 these show another decorative system embodying the invention.
Here the decorative system is a chair rail system and comprises a first elongate moulding
1, a second, upper elongate moulding 2, and a third, lower elongate moulding 3. The
system also comprises an attachment member 4 and first attachment means for attaching
the first elongate member 1, second attachment means for attaching the second member
2 and third attachment means for attaching the third moulding 3. Once again, only
relatively short sections of the various components are shown for simplicity. The
first elongate member, which can also be regarded as a central moulding, in this example
is securely attached to the support member with adhesive. The support member and first
elongate member are supplied as a unit. In the manufacture of this unit the first
elongate member has been adapted to push-fit on to a central attachment rib 413 on
the support member 4, that attachment rib 413 forming an interference fit within a
corresponding longitudinally extending slot 103 in the rear face of the central moulding
1. In doing so, they have formed the arrangement shown in Fig 12; in which flat surfaces
121 of the rear face of the central member 1 abut portions of the flat front face
411 of the support member. Portions of the mating/abutting surfaces have been coated
with adhesive to secure the components together once pushed into place. The central
member 1 has a curved front face 11. In the rear face, upper and lower recesses are
provided such that when the central member 1 is attached to the support member 5 it
defines upper and lower channels 1020 and 1030 respectively for receiving respective
end portions 243 and 343 of the second and third elongate mouldings. The lower moulding
3 is very similar in form to that of the lower moulding 2 of the picture rail system
described above, and push-fits from below to engage the assembly of the first elongate
member 1 and support member 4 as shown in Fig 12. The catch or shoulder 326 of the
lower chair rail member 3 engages on the locating rib 419 on the support member as
shown in Fig 13. Thus, the third attachment means which provides attachment between
the lower chair rail member 3 and the support member 4 comprises the downwardly directed
rib or flange 420, the receiving slot 322, the catch 326, the locating rib 419 and
also the portion 1210 of the rear surface of the middle member 1 which abuts the corresponding
forward facing surface 310 to hold it in position with the catch 326 as a mating surface
engaging the rib 419. The upper moulding's attachment is simply the mirror image of
that of the lower moulding 3, including the mating between the upwardly projecting
rib 416, slot 222, catch or shoulder 226 as mating surface, rib 415, upper flat surface
1211 and front flat surface 210. The completed chair rail system assembly is shown
in Fig 13 and it will be seen that this arrangement conveniently provides four channels
C1, C2, C3, C4 for routing wires, cables and the like. Again, the various mouldings
1, 2, 3 can easily be detached from the support means 4 to facilitate decorating.
[0065] Referring now to Fig 14 this is a schematic cross section of a support member for
use in embodiments of the invention. In certain embodiments this member is formed
by an extrusion, and it may be formed from plastic material. Alternatively, it could
be formed from other material, for example aluminium. As with the previously described
systems, the support member comprises a generally flat base portion 41 having a rear
face 412. On this surface 412 there are provided a plurality of spacer members 4120
which contact a wall W against which the support member is placed. These spacer members
may take a variety of forms. For example, in certain embodiments they are longitudinally
extending ribs, whilst in other embodiments they may be relatively short, cylindrical
or domed structures. The support member includes a lower, longitudinally extending
attachment member 413 which projects forwards from the front face 411 of the base
or plate portion 41 for reception within an appropriately sized groove or slot provided
in the rear face of an elongate member for attachment to the support member 4. To
facilitate attachment and yet also provide secure attachment, the attachment member
413 comprises a relatively wide end portion 4131 whose cross section is generally
semi-circular, attached to the end of a relatively narrow, straight sided portion
4130. Also, at an intermediate position, between the curved end portion 4131 and the
base of the thinner portion 4130 a pair of thin, transfers flanges 4132 (which may
also be described as fins) are provided, these fins extending transversely from the
sides of the thin portion 4130 and having a combined extent in the vertical direction
which is substantially the same as that of the end portion 4131. Thus, as the attachment
member 413 is received in the corresponding slot, the fins 4132 are able to engage
on the sidewalls of the slot and attach it more securely. Adhesive may also be used
to affix the elongate member securely and permanently to the support member. The curved
end of the front portion 4131 facilitates location of the member 413 in the slot.
[0066] The support member comprises an additional attachment member 415 (which in certain
examples can be regarded as a locating member). This also comprises a relatively wide,
curved end portion 4151 located at the end of a relatively thin wall portion 4150
attaching it to the base portion 41. On this relatively thin portion 4150 there are
no side fins provided. The support member 4 at its upper end comprises an upwardly
directed rib 416, located on a transversely extending wall 4161 (i.e. which extends
in the direction generally forward from the rear face 412 of the support member 4).
Thus, the upwardly directed rib 416 is able to define a channel 4160 between itself
and the surface of the wall W on which the support member is mounted. It will be appreciated
that this upwardly directed rib 416 may be used as part of the attachment means for
attaching an elongate moulding having a suitable groove to the support member 4. That
elongate member may also comprise a transverse groove or slot for receiving the attachment
member 415 provided lower down the support member 4. As that attachment member 415
is not provided with any transverse fins 4132, the elongate member locating on it
can be located more easily, the absence of the fins 4132 committing a small degree
of rotation of the elongate member about an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis
of the support member 4. The portion 4150 in certain embodiments is made from relatively
more flexible material than that of the remainder of the support member. For example,
the portion 4150 and the rest of the support member may be formed by coextrusion,
the portion 4150 being extruded from a rubber material or other flexible material,
and the remainder being extruded from relatively less flexible, harder plastic. This
enables the member 415 to deform as the relevant second elongate member is located
into position (with a catch or groove locating on the member 415).
[0067] Referring now to Figures 15 and 16, a further a skirting system embodying the joint
of the invention is illustrated, which comprises a skirting board assembly comprising
a first elongate member 1 and a second elongate member 2. The first elongate member
1 can also be described as a skirting board, and the second elongate member 2 can
be described as an elongate moulding. These two components 1, 2 assemble together
to form the skirting assembly. In Figures 15 and 16 the structure of the skirting
system is similar to that of the skirting system shown in Figs 1-4, and corresponding
features are therefore given the same reference numerals. The key differences from
Figures 14 are as follows.
[0068] This first attachment means 413 is now as described in relation to Figure 14. The
first attachment means also now includes additional features 500 a longitudinal rib
or wall provided on the support member 4 which runs along attachment means 414 along
its length but is spaced forwards from the base or wall portion 41 and is arranged
so that its sides are generally parallel to the rear surface 412. The rib 500 is also
arranged in an opposing direction to rib 416 for engagement with the second elongate
member slot 222. Rib 500 engages with a longitudinal channel or groove 501 located
in the first elongate member and facing upwards so as to receive and engage the downwardly
directed rib 500 on the support member. In this embodiment it can be seen that the
channel 501 is accommodated within channel 133 of the first elongate member, which
is designed to accommodate the rib 241 of the second elongate member. As can be seen
from Figure 16, when assembled the joint is robust as the rib 500 of the support 4,
rib 241 of the second elongate member 2 and the channel 133 of the first elongate
member 1 are intimately in contact with each other.
[0069] Also indicated in Figure 15 and 16 is the is a cable management recess 503, which
is located in the first elongate member 1 at a surface 14, which is proximate to a
floor on completion of the skirting board assembly.
[0070] In Figure 15 and 16 in contrast with the embodiment of Figures 1-4 the flat surface
portion 242 of the upper member 2 is omitted. A sloped portion of the moulding surface
225 now connects directly with a rib 241, which is now tapered to accommodate tapered
channel 133 of the first elongate member.
[0071] Also indicated in Figures 15 and 16 is stop surface 504 associated with the shallow
groove mating surface 224. The stop surface 504 is in contact with rib 415 after assembly
of the joint. This is a further feature, which adds robustness to the joint once assembled.
[0072] Referring now to Figures 17 and 18, these show another decorative system embodying
the joint of the invention. Here the decorative system is an architrave system comprising
an architrave assembly of a first elongate member 1 and a second elongate member 2,
and a support member 4. The structure of the architrave system is similar to that
of the skirting system shown in Figs 1-4, 15 and 16 and the architrave show in Figures
5 to 7, and corresponding features are given the same reference numerals. The key
difference compared to the architrave of Figures 5 to 7 is that the rib 600 and channel
601 arrangement to enable the first and second elongate members to interlock with
each other is inverted with the rib 600 now being associated with the second elongate
member. In addition the modified first engagement (500,501) means illustrated for
the skirting of Figures 15 and 16 is used in the architrave of Figures 17 and 18.
[0073] Referring now to Fig 19 this is a schematic cross section of a modified support member
for use in embodiments of the invention. The support member 4 is broadly similar to
that described in relation to Figure 14. The support member comprises a generally
flat base portion 41 having a rear face 412. Although not illustrated this support
member may have a plurality of spacer members 4120 as described in Figure 14. The
support member includes a lower, longitudinally extending attachment member 413 which
projects forwards from the front face 411 of the base or plate portion 41 for reception
within an appropriately sized groove or slot provided in the rear face of an elongate
member for attachment to the support member 4. To facilitate attachment and yet also
provide secure attachment, the attachment member 413 comprises a relatively wide end
portion 4131 whose cross section is generally semi-circular, attached to the end of
a relatively narrow, straight sided portion 4130. Also, at an intermediate position,
between the curved end portion 4131 and the base of the thinner portion 4130 a pair
of thin, transfers flanges 4132 (which may also be described as fins) are provided,
these fins extending transversely from the sides of the thin portion 4130 and having
a combined extent in the vertical direction which is substantially the same as that
of the end portion 4131. Thus, as the attachment member 413 is received in the corresponding
slot, the fins 4132 are able to engage on the sidewalls of the slot and attach it
more securely. Adhesive may also be used to affix the elongate member securely and
permanently to the support member. The curved end of the front portion 4131 facilitates
location of the member 413 in the slot.
[0074] The support member comprises an additional attachment member 415 (which in certain
examples can be regarded as a locating member). This also comprises a relatively wide,
curved end portion 4151 located at the end of a relatively thin wall portion 4150
attaching it to the base portion 41. On this relatively thin portion 4150 there are
no side fins provided.
[0075] The support member 4 at its upper end comprises an upwardly directed rib 416, located
on a transversely extending wall 4161 (i.e. which extends in the direction generally
forward from the rear face 412 of the support member 4). Thus, the upwardly directed
rib 416 is able to define a channel 4160 between itself and the surface of the wall
W on which the support member is mounted. It will be appreciated that this upwardly
directed rib 416 may be used as part of the attachment means for attaching an elongate
moulding having a suitable groove to the support member 4. That elongate member may
also comprise a transverse groove or slot for receiving the attachment member 415
provided lower down the support member 4. As that attachment member 415 is not provided
with any transverse fins 4132, the elongate member locating on it can be located more
easily, the absence of the fins 4132 committing a small degree of rotation of the
elongate member about an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the support member
4. The portion 4150 in certain embodiments is made from relatively more flexible material
than that of the remainder of the support member. For example, the portion 4150 and
the rest of the support member may be formed by coextrusion, the portion 4150 being
extruded from a rubber material or other flexible material, and the remainder being
extruded from relatively less flexible, harder plastic. This enables the member 415
to deform as the relevant second elongate member is located into position (with a
catch or groove locating on the member 415).
[0076] The support member further comprises a second attachment member 414 having a rib
500 located on a transversely extending wall 5001 (i.e. which extends in the direction
generally forward from the rear face 412 of the support member 4). Thus, the downwardly
directed rib 500 is able to define a channel 5002 between itself and surface 411 of
the support member 4. It will be appreciated that this downwardly directed rib 500
may be used as part of the attachment means for attaching a first elongate member
having a suitable groove to the support member 4. That elongate member may also comprise
a transverse groove or slot for receiving the second attachment member 500.
[0077] It will be appreciated from the above description that decorative systems embodying
the invention may be used in a variety of applications, and in particular, although
not exclusively, for interior decoration.
[0078] Certain embodiments provide the advantage that the need to cut accurate lengths (in
particular on a skirting base) can be decreased. In other words, the number of accurate
cuts, and in particular accurate mitre cuts, that need to be made when fitting a decorative
system embodying the invention are smaller than in the fitting of previously known
systems.
[0079] Another advantage of embodiments of the invention is that the fittings used to attach
the support members to a wall are hidden in the assembled system, thereby producing
an improved aesthetic effect, and yet those fittings are easily exposable by removing
certain components to facilitate adjustment, repositioning, and/or decorating.
[0080] Embodiments of the invention do cover a relatively large area on a wall and may be
positioned above damaged plasterwork to provide a neat and attractive finished appearance.
[0081] Embodiments of the invention incorporate easily removable sections, which may also
be flexible, which in turn can enable high accuracies to be achieved in joints.
[0082] Embodiments of the invention are adjustable so as to be able to incorporate different
floor thicknesses, for example, and to aid accurate positioning and leveling.
[0083] In certain embodiments, by incorporating attachment means which enables one component
to be push-fitted to a support member and another to be inserted from above or below
(i.e. by movement in a vertical direction) the fitting of the system in corners is
facilitated.
[0084] Embodiments of the invention are able to provide channels or conduits (which can
also be regarded as cable trays) through which cables may be fed. Therefore, power
cables, speaker cables, lighting cables or telephone cables can be routed through
decorative systems embodying the invention with minimum cable exposure.
[0085] Components of the decorative systems embodying the invention are conveniently reusable,
especially as the elongate mouldings are simply push-fitted on to the support member
or members (no glue being required, or indeed screws or nails through the mouldings).
[0086] Embodiments of the invention are able to provide the advantage that they can reduce
the time and the need for accuracy when decorating or redecorating.
[0087] Embodiments of the invention are able to reduce the skill level required to install
the system as they may incorporate the ability to adjust the position at which the
support member or members are attached to a wall.
[0088] Embodiments provide the further advantage that they can reduce the time taken to
install the decorative system.
[0089] Embodiments provide the advantage that the refurbishing of floor areas is facilitated,
with skirting systems being easily detachable and repositionable.
[0090] Embodiments can also provide the advantage that the support members are able to provide
a cutting guide (for example for use in the cutting of wallpaper).
[0091] Embodiments incorporating means for adjusting the attachment position of the support
member enable accurate alignment (e.g. leveling) of the decorative system to be achieved
without the need for accurate positioning of holes drilled in a wall surface.
[0092] The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiment(s). The
invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed
in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings),
or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process
so disclosed.
1. A joint system for decorative or architectural features comprising: an assembly comprising
a first elongate member and a second elongate member, and support means adapted for
attachment to a wall to provide support for the assembly, the first elongate member
being adapted to be attached to the support means via a first attachment means in
a first position in which the first elongate member is in contact with the support
and in part is in contact with the wall, the second elongate member attached to the
support via a second attachment means in a second position in which the second elongate
member is in contact with the support and in part is in contact with the wall substantially
parallel to the first elongate member attached in the first position.
2. A joint for a decorative system as claimed in claim 1 wherein the support means is
adapted for attachment to a wall along a desired line to provide support for the assembly
along said line and the first and second elongate members extend along the line.
3. A joint for a decorative system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the first attachment
means is arranged to non-releasably attach the first elongate member to the support
means.
4. A joint for a decorative system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the first attachment
means is arranged to releasably attach the first elongate member to the support means.
5. A joint for a decorative system in accordance with claim 4, wherein the first attachment
means is adapted such that the first elongate member is attachable to the support
means by aligning the first elongate member in a position spaced from the wall in
front of the support means attached to the wall and translating the aligned first
elongate member towards the wall to said first position.
6. A joint for a decorative system in accordance with any preceding claim, wherein the
second attachment means is adapted to releasably attach the second elongate member
to the support means.
7. A joint for a decorative system in accordance with claim 6, wherein the second attachment
means is arranged such that the second elongate member is attachable to the support
means by firstly positioning the second elongate member against the wall and alongside
the support means, the second elongate member extending in a direction generally parallel
to the desired line, and secondly translating the second elongate member from this
initial position towards the support in a plane parallel to the wall surface and into
engagement with the support.
8. A joint for a decorative system in accordance with any preceding claim, wherein the
assembly further comprises a third elongate member, and the system further comprises
third attachment means adapted to attach the third elongate member to the support
means, when the support means is attached to the wall, in a third position in which
the third elongate member extends along the line, alongside and substantially parallel
to the first and second elongate members attached in the first and second positions.
9. A joint for a decorative system in accordance with any preceding claim, wherein the
support means comprises an elongate support member having a longitudinal axis.
10. A joint for a decorative system in accordance with claim 9, wherein the support member
comprises a plurality of fixing apertures spaced apart along said longitudinal axis
for receiving fixing screws to attach the support member to a wall.
11. A joint for a decorative system in accordance with claim 10, wherein the plurality
of fixing apertures comprises a plurality of fixing slots, each fixing slot extending
generally transversely to the longitudinal axis.
12. A joint for a decorative system in accordance with any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein
the first attachment means comprises an attachment member provided on the support
member, and arranged to protrude in a direction generally away from a wall to which
the support member is attached, and a corresponding recess provided on the first elongate
member to receive and engage the attachment member when the first elongate member
is in the first position.
13. A joint for a decorative system in accordance with claim 12, wherein the attachment
member comprises a rib protruding from a surface of the support member and extending
along a length of the support member.
14. A joint for a decorative system in accordance with claim 13, wherein the corresponding
recess comprises a longitudinal slot.
15. A joint for a decorative system in accordance with any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein
the first attachment means comprises a second rib protruding from a surface of the
support member and extending along a length of the support member, parallel to the
first rib, and a second corresponding longitudinal slot provided on the first elongate
member.
16. A joint for a decorative system in accordance with any one of claims 9 to 15, wherein
the second attachment means comprises an attachment member provided on the support
member, and arranged to protrude in a direction generally parallel to a wall to which
the support member is attached, and a corresponding attachment members, provided on
the second elongate member to receive and engage the attachment member of the support
member when the second elongate member is in the second position.
17. A joint for a decorative system in accordance with claim 16, wherein the attachment
member of the second attachment means comprises a rib attachment member extending
along a length of the support member.
18. A joint for a decorative system in accordance with claim 17, wherein the corresponding
recess on the second support member comprises a longitudinal slot.
19. A joint for a decorative system in accordance with claim 17 or claim 18, wherein the
rib attachment member of the second attachment means is arranged so as to be spaced
from and parallel to a surface of a wall to which the support member is attached.
20. A joint for a decorative system in accordance with any one of claims 9 to 19, wherein
the support member and assembly are adapted such that when the assembly members are
attached to the support means, at least one longitudinal channel for routing a wire
or cable is defined between the support member and at least one of the elongate members.
21. A joint for a decorative system in accordance with any preceding claim, wherein the
first and second elongate members are adapted such that when attached to the support
means in the first and second positions, a surface of the first elongate member abuts
a surface of the second elongate member.
22. A joint for a decorative system in accordance with any preceding claim, wherein one
of the first and second elongate members comprises an elongate mating rib and the
other one of the first and second elongate members comprises a corresponding elongate
mating slot for receiving and engaging the mating rib, the arrangement being such
that when the first and second elongate members are attached to the support means
in the first and second positions, the mating rib is received in and engaged by the
mating slot.
23. A joint for a decorative system in accordance with any preceding claim wherein the
first attachment means of the support may comprises a second attachment member arranged
to protrude from the support in a direction generally parallel to a wall to which
the support member is attached.
24. A joint for a decorative system in accordance with claim 23, wherein the second attachment
member comprises a rib attachment member extending along a length of the support member
arranged so as to be spaced from and parallel to a surface of a wall to which the
support member is attached.
25. A joint for a decorative system in accordance with claims 23 or 24 wherein there is
a corresponding recess for the second attachment means on the first elongate member
arranged to be parallel to the surface of the wall.
26. A joint for a decorative system in accordance with claims 24, wherein the second rib
attachment member is orientated to be in the opposing direction to the rib attachment
member of the first attachment member on the support, which is associated with the
second attachment means.
27. A joint for a decorative system in accordance with any preceding claim wherein the
second elongate member comprises at least one mating surface, located on an internal
surface exposed to the support means and the support means comprises a resilient mating
rib extending from a support means surface exposed to the second elongate member.
28. A joint for a decorative system in accordance with claim 28, wherein the second elongate
member has an engagement surface, which is contacted by the mating rib before it engages
with the mating surface, during assembly of the joint.
29. A joint for a decorative system in accordance with any one of the preceding claims,
wherein the support is a resilient support.
30. A joint as claimed in any one of the preceding claims incorporated into a skirting
board or picture rail or dado rail or architrave or chair rail.
31. A skirting board as claimed in claim 30 comprising a cable management recess located
in the first elongate member at a surface, which is proximate to a floor on completion
of the skirting board assembly.