PANELS AND PANEL SYSTEMS FOR BUILDING CONSTRUCTION

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a panel assembly, in particular, to a panel assembly comprising a first panel and a second panel that are joined by a joiner.

BACKGROUND

A panel, for example, a siding panel, is used during construction, of buildings. It is desirable to join adjacent panels via a joiner to define a panel assembly, such that expansion and contraction of the panels, for example, due to temperature, is urged to effectuate at the terminal ends of the panel assembly.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, there is provided a kit for producing a panel assembly comprising: a first panel; a second panel; and a joiner; wherein: the first panel, the second panel, and the joiner are co-operatively configured for establishing a joined configuration, wherein, in the joined configuration, the first panel is joined to the second panel by the joiner; the joiner and the first panel are co-operatively configured such that, while the joined configuration is established, the joiner is disposed for receiving application of a compressive force being transmitted by the first panel, and is also disposed for receiving application of a tensile force being transmitted by the first panel; and the joiner and the second panel are co-operatively configured such that, while the joined configuration is established, the joiner is disposed for receiving application of a compressive force being transmitted by the second panel, and is also disposed for receiving application of a tensile force being transmitted by the second panel.

In another aspect, there is provided a kit for producing a panel assembly comprising: a first panel including a respective at least one channel, such that a first panel channel configuration is defined, by the at least one channel that is respective to the first panel, within a rear-facing surface of the first panel; a second panel including a respective at least one channel, such that a second panel channel configuration is defined, by the at least one channel that is respective to the second panel, within a rear-facing surface of the second panel; a joiner including: at least one first panel co-operating protrusion, such that a first panel co-operating protrusion configuration is defined by the at least one first panel co-operating protrusion; and at least one second panel co-operating protrusion, such that a second panel co-operating protrusion configuration is defined by the at least one second panel co-operating protrusion; wherein: the first panel, the second panel, and the joiner are co-operatively configured for establishing a joined configuration, wherein, in the joined configuration, the first panel is joined to the second panel by the joiner, and, while the joined configuration is established, the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration is disposed within the first panel channel configuration, and the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration is disposed within the second panel channel configuration, with effect that: the joiner and the first panel are disposed in a form fit relationship; and the joiner and the second panel are disposed in a form fit relationship.

In another aspect, there is provided a kit for producing a panel assembly comprising: a first panel, wherein the first panel includes a respective longitudinal axis and a respective lateral axis; a second panel, wherein the second panel includes a respective longitudinal axis and a respective lateral axis; a joiner; wherein: the first panel, the second panel, and the joiner are co-operatively configured for establishing a joined configuration, wherein, in the joined configuration, the first panel is joined to the second panel by the joiner, with effect that: the joiner and the first panel are disposed in a form fit relationship; and the joiner and the second panel are disposed in a form fit relationship; the form fit relationship, between the joiner and the first panel, is defeatable in response to relative displacement, between the joiner and the first panel, along the lateral axis that is respective to the first panel, only; and the form fit relationship, between the joiner and the second panel, is defeatable in response to relative displacement, between the joiner and the second panel, along the lateral axis that is respective to the second panel, only.

In another aspect, there is provided a kit for producing a panel assembly comprising: a first panel, wherein the first panel includes a respective longitudinal axis; a second panel, wherein the second panel includes a respective longitudinal axis; a joiner; wherein: the first panel, the second panel, and the joiner are co-operatively configured for establishing a joined configuration, wherein, in the joined configuration, the first panel is joined to the second panel by the joiner, such that: displacement of the first panel, relative to the second panel, along an axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the first panel, is prevented, and displacement of the second panel, relative to the first panel, along an axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the second panel, is prevented; displacement of the first panel, relative to the second panel, along an axis that is parallel to the normal axis of the first panel, is prevented, and displacement of the second panel, relative to the first panel, along an axis that is parallel to the normal axis of the second panel, is prevented; angular displacement of the first panel, relative to the second panel, along an axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the first panel is prevented, and angular displacement of the second panel, relative to the first panel, along an axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the second panel, is prevented; angular displacement of the first panel, relative to the second panel, along an axis that is parallel to the lateral axis of the first panel, is prevented, and angular displacement of the second panel, relative to the first panel, along an axis that is parallel to the lateral axis of the second panel, is prevented; and angular displacement of the first panel, relative to the second panel, along an axis that is parallel to the normal axis of the first panel, is prevented, and angular displacement of the second panel, relative to the first panel, along an axis that is parallel to the normal axis of the second panel, is prevented.

In another aspect, there is provided a kit for a panel assembly, comprising: a first panel comprising a first connection counterpart; and a second panel comprising a second connection counterpart; wherein: the first panel and the second panel are co-operatively configured for joining to define the panel assembly, wherein the first panel is joined to the second panel, the joining of the first and second panels is effectuated by sliding the first connection counterpart relative to the second connection counterpart, along a sliding axis, to join the first connection counterpart and the second connection counterpart; the first connection counterpart and the second connection counterpart are co-operatively configured such that, while the panel assembly is defined: the first connection counterpart and the second connection counterpart are disposed in a form fit relationship; and angular displacement of the first panel, relative to the second panel, about a displacement axis that is parallel to the sliding axis, wherein the angular displacement is sufficient to defeat the form fit relationship, is prevented; and angular displacement of the second panel, relative to the first panel, about a displacement axis that is parallel to the sliding axis, wherein the angular displacement is sufficient to defeat the form fit relationship, is prevented.

In another aspect, there is provided a kit for a panel assembly, comprising: a first panel comprising a first connection counterpart; and a second panel comprising a second connection counterpart; wherein: the first panel and the second panel are co-operatively configured for joining to define the panel assembly, wherein the first panel is joined to the second panel, the joining of the first and second panels effectuated by joining the first connection counterpart and the second connection counterpart; the first connection counterpart and the second connection counterpart are co-operatively configured such that, while the panel assembly is defined: the first connection counterpart and the second connection counterpart are disposed in a form fit relationship; and angular displacement of the first panel, relative to the second panel, about an axis along which a height of the first panel is defined, wherein the angular displacement is sufficient to defeat the form fit relationship, is prevented; and angular displacement of the second panel, relative to the first panel, about an axis along which a height of the second panel is defined, wherein the angular displacement is sufficient to defeat the form fit relationship, is prevented.

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

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

In the figures, which illustrate example embodiments,

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of a panel assembly, comprising a first panel, a second panel, and a joiner in a joined configuration;

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of the first panel, the second panel, and the joiner of the panel assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of the first panel, the second panel, and the joiner of the panel assembly of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of the first panel, the second panel, and the joiner of the panel assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a rear perspective view of the first panel, the second panel, and the joiner of the panel assembly of FIG. 1, wherein protrusions of the joiner are being slidably inserted into a channel of the first panel and a channel of the second panel;

FIG. 6 is a rear perspective view of panel assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is a rear view of the first panel of the panel assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a top view of the first panel of the panel assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 is a left view of the first panel of the panel assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 10 is a right view of the first panel of the panel assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 11 is a rear view of the second panel of the panel assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 12 is a front perspective view of the joiner of the panel assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the joiner of the panel assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the first panel and the second panel of the panel assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of a panel assembly, comprising a first panel, a second panel, and a joiner in a joined configuration;

FIG. 16 is a front perspective view of the first panel, the second panel, and the joiner of the panel assembly of FIG. 15, wherein the joiner is being displaced towards the first and second panels to effectuate a snap fit engagement between the joiner and the first panel, and to effectuate a snap fit engagement between the joiner and the second panel;

FIG. 17 is a rear perspective view of the panel assembly of FIG. 15;

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the joiner of the panel assembly of FIG. 15;

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of the first panel and the second panel of the panel assembly of FIG. 15;

FIG. 20 is a top view of a third embodiment of a panel assembly, comprising a first panel and a second panel in a joined configuration;

FIG. 21 is a top view of the first panel and the second panel of the panel assembly of FIG. 20;

FIG. 22 is a front perspective view of the first panel and, the second panel of the panel assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 23 is a front perspective view of the first panel the second panel of the panel assembly of FIG. 20, wherein the protrusion of the first panel is being slidably inserted into a channel of the second panel, the protrusion of the second panel is being slidably inserted into a channel of the first panel;

FIG. 24 is a front perspective view of panel assembly of FIG. 20;

FIG. 25 is a rear perspective view of panel assembly of FIG. 20;

FIG. 26 is a front view of the panel assembly of FIG. 1, FIG. 6, or FIG. 15, connected to a building structure; and

FIG. 27 is a side view of the panel assembly of FIG. 1, FIG. 6, or FIG. 15, connected to a building structure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure relates to panels and panel systems comprising a plurality of panels. In some embodiments, for example, the panel systems are used in building and constructions, including, for example, use in walls and siding.

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

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

In some embodiments, for example, the panel system includes a plurality of panels. In some embodiments, for example, each one of the panels, independently, includes a front-facing surface and a rear-facing surface, each of which, in some embodiments, defines a planar surface configuration. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the panels, independently, the planar surface configuration of the front facing surface and the planar surface configuration of the rear facing surface are disposed in a parallel relationship. In some embodiments, for example, while a panel assembly is defined by connected first and second panels, the planar surface configuration of the font-facing surface of the first panel and the planar surface configuration of the font-facing surface of the second panel are disposed in a co-planar relationship. In some embodiments, for example, while a panel assembly is defined by connected first and second panels, the planar surface configuration of the rear-facing surface of the first panel and the planar surface configuration of the rear-facing surface of the second panel are disposed in a co-planar relationship. In some embodiments, for example, each one of the panels, independently, includes an upper horizontal outermost surface, a lower horizontal outermost surface, a first vertical outermost surface, and a second vertical outermost surface disposed on an opposite end of the panel relative to the first vertical outermost surface.

In some embodiments, for example, a plurality of panels is arranged and connected in a horizontally extending series of “N” panels for establishing an assembled configuration. In some embodiments, for example, in the assembled configuration, with the exception of the terminal panels of the series (i.e. the first panel and the N^thpanel), each one of the “N” panels, independently, is disposed adjacent to preceding and succeeding panels in the series, while the first panel in the series is disposed adjacent to a succeeding panel, and the N^thpanel in the series is disposed adjacent to a preceding panel. With the exception of the N^thpanel, each one of the other panels in the series, independently, is disposed adjacent to a succeeding panel such that a vertical outermost surface of a one of the panels is disposed adjacent (such as, for example, in an abutting relationship) with a vertical outermost surface of a succeeding one of the panels, in the series. With the exception of the first panel in the series, each one of the other panels in the series is disposed adjacent to a preceding one of the panels such that a vertical outermost surface of a one of the panels is disposed adjacent (such as, for example, in an abutting relationship) with a vertical outermost surface of a succeeding one of the panels, in the series. In the joined configuration, each one of the terminal panels, independently, defines a respective free end.

In some embodiments, for example, each one of the panels, independently, is configured for fastening to a structure 900 (e.g. of a building) with a fastener configuration defined by at least one fastener (e.g. a nail or a screw). In some embodiments, for example, the fastening to a structure 900 includes a fastening to a side surface (e.g. a side surface of a wall) of the structure 900, as depicted in FIG. 27. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the panels, independently, the panel and its respective fastener configuration are co-operatively configured such that, while the panel is fastened to the structure with the fastener configuration, the panel enjoys freedom to displace (e.g. shift) horizontally relative to the structure in response to expansion of the panel, caused by heating, or contraction of the panel, caused by cooling. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, as depicted in FIG. 26 and FIG. 27, each one of the panels, independently, includes a fastening flange 904 that includes a horizontally elongated slot 906, disposed at an upper end of the panel, for receiving the fastener configuration 908 for the fastening of the panel to the structure, while permitting the horizontal displacement caused by changes in temperature.

In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in FIG. 26 to FIG. 27, the series of “N” panels cover the width of a structure (e.g. a building structure 900, such as a building frame, including upper, lower, left, and right frame members joined to form a rectangular frame). In some embodiments, for example, at each corner of the structure, independently, a corner panel 902 is mounted to the structure and receives a respective one of the terminal panels, with effect that, for each one of the terminal panels, independently, at least a portion of the terminal panel, and including the free end, is concealed by the corner panel 902, such that movement of the free end, due to expansion and contraction caused by the above-described temperature effects, is concealed from visibility of an observer.

In some embodiments, for example, the horizontally extending series of “N” panels defines a horizontally extending row of panels, and a plurality of horizontally extending rows of panels are combined in a vertically extending arrangement, such that the panel system includes a series of vertically adjacent horizontally extending rows of panels. In some of these embodiments, for example, the series of vertically adjacent horizontally extending rows of panels are configured for fastening to a building structure 900 to define an exterior surface of the building structure 900. In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in FIG. 27, each one of the panels, independently, includes an end connector 910 disposed at a lower end of the panel, which is disposed at an end of the panel that is opposite of the upper end, wherein the end connector 910 is configured to receive the fastening flange 904 of another panel, such that, while a first horizontally extending row of panel and a second horizontally extending row of panels are fastened to the building structure 900, the first horizontally extending row of panels and the second horizontally extending row of panels define a series of vertically adjacent horizontally extending rows of panels, a fastening flange 904 of at least one of the panels of the second horizontally extending row of panels is received in an end connector 910 of at least one of the panels of the first horizontally extending row of panels, such that at least one of the fastener configurations 908 that is fastening the second horizontally extending row of panels of the building structure 900 is occluded by the end connector 910 of the at least one of the panels of the first horizontally extending row of panels in which the fastening flange 904 of at least one of the panels of the second horizontally extending row of panels is received.

Referring to FIG. 1 to FIG. 19, in some embodiments, for example, the assembled configuration or panel assembly 12, established from the series of “N” panels, is defined by at least one pair of adjacent panels, and, for each one of the at least one pair of adjacent panels, independently, the pair of adjacent panels is defined by a first panel 100 and a second panel 200. For each one of the at least one pair of adjacent panels, independently, the adjacent panels are joined, in a joined configuration 14, by a respective joiner 300. In some embodiments, for example, the series of “N” panels includes (and, in some embodiments, for example, is defined by) a plurality of pairs of adjacent panels 100, 200, such that the at least one pair of adjacent panels 100, 200 is defined by a plurality of pairs of adjacent panels 100, 200.

In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, a kit is provided for assembling the panel assembly, and the kit includes, for each one of the at least one pair of adjacent panels, independently, a respective first panel 100, a respective second panel 200, and a respective joiner 300.

The first panel 100 includes a front-facing surface 102 and a rear facing surface 104, an upper horizontal outermost surface 106, a lower horizontal outermost surface 108, a first vertical outermost surface 110, and a second vertical outermost surface 112. In some embodiments, for example, the length of the panel 100 is measured along an axis that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 100X of the panel 100. In some embodiments, for example, the length is defined by a minimum spacing distance between the first vertical outermost surface 110 and the second vertical outermost surface 112 (e.g. the length of the panel 100), such that the length has a value of at least three (3) inches, such as, for example, at least six (6) inches, such as, for example, at least nine (9) inches. In some embodiments, for example, the height of the panel 100 is measured along an axis that is parallel to a lateral axis 101X of the panel 100, which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 100X of the panel 100. In some embodiments, for example, the height is defined by a minimum spacing distance between the upper horizontal outermost surface 106 and the lower horizontal outermost surface 108 (e.g. the height of the panel 100) has a value of at least three (3) inches, for example, at least six (6) inches, for example, at least seven (7) inches. As depicted, in some embodiments, for example, the second panel 200 includes a front-facing surface 202 and a rear facing surface 204, an upper horizontal outermost surface 206, a lower horizontal outermost surface 208, a first vertical outermost surface 210, and a second vertical outermost surface 212. As depicted, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the second vertical outermost surface 112 of the first panel 100 and the first vertical outermost surface 210 of the second panel are disposed in abutting relationship. In some embodiments, for example, the length of the panel 200 is measured along an axis that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 200X of the panel 200. In some embodiments, for example, the length is defined by a minimum spacing distance between the first vertical outermost surface 210 and the second vertical outermost surface 212 (e.g. the length of the panel 200), and the length has a value of at least three (3) inches, for example, at least six (6) inches, for example, at least nine (9) inches. In some embodiments, for example, the height of the panel 200 is measured along an axis that is parallel to a lateral axis 201X of the panel 200, which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 200X of the panel 200. In some embodiments, for example, the height is defined by a minimum spacing distance between the upper horizontal outermost surface 206 and the lower horizontal outermost surface 208, and the height of the panel 200 has a value of at least three (3) inches, for example, at least six (6) inches, for example, at least seven (7) inches.

In some embodiments, for example, the joiner 300 has a width, measured along an axis that is parallel to a lateral axis 301X of the joiner 300, having a minimum value of at least two (2) inches, such as, for example, at least three (3) inches, such as, for example, at least six (6) inches.

In some embodiments, for example, the ratio, of the width of the joiner 300 to the height of the panel 100, is at least 0.5. In some embodiments, for example, the ratio, of the width of the joiner 300 to the height of the panel 200, is at least 0.5.

In some embodiments, for example, each one of the first panel 100, the second panel 200, and the joiner 300 includes a respective material of construction, and the material of construction of the joiner 300 is stronger than the material of construction of the first panel 100, and the material of construction of the joiner 300 is stronger than the material of construction of the second panel 200. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the compressive strength of the material of construction of the joiner 300 is greater than the compressive strength of the material construction of the first panel 100, and the compressive strength of the material of construction of the joiner 300 is greater than the compressive strength of the material construction of the second panel 200. In some embodiments, for example, the ratio, of the compressive strength of the material of construction of the joiner 300 to the compressive strength of the material construction of the first panel 100, is greater than 1.2 (such as, for example, greater than 1.3, such as, for example, greater than 1.4, such as, for example, greater than 1.5, such as, for example, greater than 1.6, such as, for example, greater than 1.8. such as, for example, greater than two (2)), and the ratio, of the compressive strength of the material of construction of the joiner 300 to the compressive strength of the material construction of the second panel 200, is greater than 1.2 (such as, for example, greater than 1.3, such as, for example, greater than 1.4, such as, for example, greater than 1.5, such as, for example, greater than 1.6, such as, for example, greater than 1.8. such as, for example, greater than two (2)). In some embodiments, for example, the tensile strength of the material of construction of the joiner 300 is greater than the tensile strength of the material construction of the first panel 100, and the tensile strength of the material of construction of the joiner 300 is greater than the tensile strength of the material construction of the second panel 200. In some embodiments, for example, the ratio, of the tensile strength of the material of construction of the joiner 300 to the tensile strength of the material construction of the first panel 100, is greater than 1.2 (such as, for example, greater than 1.3, such as, for example, greater than 1.4, such as, for example, greater than 1.5, such as, for example, greater than 1.6, such as, for example, greater than 1.8. such as, for example, greater than two (2)), and the ratio, of the tensile strength of the material of construction of the joiner 300 to the tensile strength of the material construction of the second panel 200, is greater than 1.2 (such as, for example, greater than 1.3, such as, for example, greater than 1.4, such as, for example, greater than 1.5, such as, for example, greater than 1.6, such as, for example, greater than 1.8. such as, for example, greater than two (2)).

In some embodiments, for example, the material of construction of the joiner 300 is metallic material. In some embodiments, for example, the material of construction of the joiner 300 is aluminum material. In some embodiments, for example, the joiner 300 is an extrudate.

The first panel 100, the second panel 200, and the joiner 300 are co-operatively configured for disposition in an unassembled configuration, wherein, in the unassembled configuration, there is an absence of joinder, of the first panel 100 to the second panel 200, by the joiner 300, and a joined configuration 14, wherein, in the joined configuration, the first panel 100 is joined to the second panel 200 by the joiner 300.

The joiner 300 and the first panel 100 are co-operatively configured such that, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the joiner 300 is emplaced for receiving application of a compressive force (such as, for example, a compressive force in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 100X of the first panel (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 200X of the second panel 200)) being transmitted by the first panel 100, and is also emplaced for receiving application of a tensile force (such as, for example, a tensile force in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 100X of the first panel (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 200X of the second panel 200)) being transmitted by the first panel 100. The joiner 300 and the second panel 200 are co-operatively configured such that, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the joiner 300 is emplaced for receiving application of a compressive force (such as, for example, a compressive force in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 100X of the first panel (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 200X of the second panel 200)) being transmitted by the second panel 200, and is also emplaced for receiving application of a tensile force (such as, for example, a tensile force in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 100X of the first panel (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 200X of the second panel 200)) being transmitted by the second panel 200. In some embodiments, for example, first panel 100, the second panel 200, and the joiner 300 are co-operatively configured such that, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the joiner 300 and the first panel 100 are disposed in force transfer communication, such that a tensile force (such as, for example, a tensile force in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 100X of the first panel (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 200X of the second panel 200)) is transmissible from the first panel 100 to the joiner 300 and such that a compressive force (such as, for example, a tensile force in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 100X of the first panel (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 200X of the second panel 200)) is transmissible from the first panel 100 to the joiner 300, and the joiner 300 and the second panel 200 are disposed in force transfer communication, such that a tensile force is transmissible from the second panel 200 to the joiner 300 and such that a compressive force is transmissible from the second panel 200 to the joiner 300.

The joiner 300 and the first panel 100 are co-operatively configured such that, while the joined configuration 14 is established (and, in some embodiments, for example, the joined configuration is also fastened to the structure 900), and the joiner 300 is receiving application of a compressive force (such as, for example, a compressive force in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 100X of the first panel (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 200X of the second panel 200)) being transmitted by the first panel 100, the joiner 300 is disposed in compression. The joiner 300 and the first panel 100 are co-operatively configured such that, while the joined configuration 14 is established (and, in some embodiments, for example, the joined configuration is also fastened to the structure 900), and the joiner 300 is receiving application of a tensile force (such as, for example, a tensile force in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 100X of the first panel (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 200X of the second panel 200)) being transmitted by the first panel 100, the joiner 300 is disposed in tension. The joiner 300 and the second panel 200 are co-operatively configured such that, while the joined configuration 14 is established (and, in some embodiments, for example, the joined configuration is also fastened to the structure 900), and the joiner 300 is receiving application of a compressive force (such as, for example, a compressive force in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 100X of the first panel (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 200X of the second panel 200)) being transmitted by the second panel 200, the joiner 300 is disposed in compression. The joiner 300 and the second panel 200 are co-operatively configured such that, while the joined configuration 14 is established (and, in some embodiments, for example, the joined configuration is also fastened to the structure 900), and the joiner 300 is receiving application of a tensile force (such as, for example, a tensile force in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 100X of the first panel (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 200X of the second panel 200)) being transmitted by the second panel 200, the joiner 300 is disposed in tension.

In some embodiments, for example, the first panel 100, the second panel 200, and the joiner 300 are co-operatively configured such that, while the joined configuration 14 is established (and, in some of these embodiments, for example, the joined configuration is also fastened to the structure 900), and the first panel 100 is applying a tensile force (such as, for example, a tensile force in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 100X of the first panel (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 200X of the second panel 200)) to the joiner 300, the applied tensile force is transmitted to the second panel 200, by the joiner 300, with effect that there is an absence of displacement of the first panel 100 relative to the second panel 200. Also, the first panel 100, the second panel 200, and the joiner 300 are co-operatively configured such that, while the joined configuration 14 is established (and, in some of these embodiments, for example, the joined configuration is also fastened to the structure 900), and the second panel 200 is applying a tensile force (such as, for example, a tensile force in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 100X of the first panel (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 200X of the second panel 200)) to the joiner 300, the applied tensile force is transmitted to the first panel 100, by the joiner 300, with effect that there is an absence of displacement of the second panel 200 relative to the first panel 100.

In some embodiments, for example, in the joined configuration 14, the first and second panels 100, 200 are emplaced in abutting engagement, for example, along a vertical seam, which, in some embodiments, for example, is defined by the second vertical outermost surface 112 of the first panel and the first vertical outermost surface 210 of the second panel 200, while the panels 100, 200 are mounted to the building structure 900, and while the joined configuration 14 is established. In this respect, the first panel 100, the second panel 200, and the joiner 300 are co-operatively configured such that, while the joined configuration 14 is established such that the first and second panels 100, 200 are emplaced in abutting engagement (and, in some of these embodiments, for example, the joined configuration is also fastened to the structure 900), and the first panel 100 is applying a tensile force (such as, for example, a tensile force in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 100X of the first panel (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 200X of the second panel 200)) to the joiner 300, the applied tensile force is transmitted to the second panel 200, by the joiner 300, with effect that there is an absence of sufficient relative displacement between the first panel 100 and the second panel 200, for effecting defeating of the abutting engagement. Also, the first panel 100, the second panel 200, and the joiner 300 are co-operatively configured such that, while the joined configuration 14 is established such that the first and second panels 100, 200 are emplaced in abutting engagement (and, in some of these embodiments, for example, the joined configuration is also fastened to the structure 900), and the second panel 200 is applying a tensile force (such as, for example, a tensile force in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 100X of the first panel (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 200X of the second panel 200)) to the joiner 300, the applied tensile force is transmitted to the first panel 100, by the joiner 300, with effect that there is an absence of sufficient relative displacement between the first panel 100 and the second panel 200, for effecting defeating of the abutting engagement.

In some embodiments, for example, the first panel 100, the second panel 200, and the joiner 300 are co-operatively configured such that, while the joined configuration 14 is established (and, in some of these embodiments, for example, the joined configuration is also fastened to the structure 900), and the first panel 100 is applying a compressive force (such as, for example, a compressive force in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 100X of the first panel (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 200X of the second panel 200)) to the joiner 300, there is an absence of application of compressive force to the second panel 200, by the joiner 300, that is sufficient to effect buckling of the second panel 200. Also, the first panel 100, the second panel 200, and the joiner 300 are co-operatively configured such that, while the joined configuration 14 is established (and, in some of these embodiments, for example, the joined configuration is also fastened to the structure 900), and the second panel 200 is applying a compressive force (such as, for example, a compressive force in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 100X of the first panel (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 200X of the second panel 200)) to the joiner 300, there is an absence of application of compressive force to the first panel 100, by the joiner 300, that is sufficient to effect buckling of the first panel 100.

In some embodiments, for example, the joiner 300 includes at least one first panel co-operating protrusion 310, such that a first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312 is defined by the at least one first panel co-operating protrusion 310 that is respective to the first panel 100, and at least one second panel co-operating protrusion 320, such that a second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 322 is defined by the at least one second panel co-operating protrusion 320 that is respective to the second panel 200. As depicted, in some embodiments, for example, each one of the at least one first panel co-operating protrusion 310, independently, extends transversely relative to the connector 302, and each one of the at least one second panel co-operating protrusion 320, independently, extends transversely relative to the connector 302.

In some embodiments, for example, the first panel 100 includes at least one respective receptacle 120, such that a first panel receptacle configuration 122 is defined by the at least one receptacle 120 that is respective to the first panel 100. In some of these embodiments, for example, the first panel receptacle configuration 122 is defined by a single receptacle 120. In some of these embodiments, for example, the first panel receptacle configuration 122 is defined by more than one receptacle 120. Also, the second panel 200 includes at least one respective receptacle 220, such that a second panel receptacle configuration 222 is defined by the at least one receptacle 220 that is respective to the second panel 200. In some of these embodiments, for example, the second panel receptacle configuration 222 is defined by a single receptacle 220. In some of these embodiments, for example, the second panel receptacle configuration 222 is defined by more than one receptacle 220. The first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312 is configured for insertion into the first panel receptacle configuration 122. Also, the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 322 is configured for insertion into the second panel receptacle configuration 222. The first panel 100, the second panel 200, and the joiner 300 are co-operatively configured such that the joined configuration 14 is established in response to at least: (i) insertion of the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312 into the first panel receptacle configuration 122, and (ii) insertion of the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 322 into the second panel receptacle configuration 222. In this respect, transitioning from the unassembled configuration to the joined configuration 14 is effected by at least: (i) insertion of the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312 into the first panel receptacle configuration 122, and (ii) insertion of the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 322 into the second panel receptacle configuration 222.

In some embodiments, for example, the insertion of the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312 into the first panel receptacle configuration 122, is independent of the insertion of the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 322 into the second panel receptacle configuration 222. In some embodiments, for example, the insertion of the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312 into the first panel receptacle configuration 122 occurs before the insertion of the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 322 into the second panel receptacle configuration 222. In some embodiments, for example, the insertion of the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312 into the first panel receptacle configuration 122 occurs after the insertion of the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 322 into the second panel receptacle configuration 222. In some embodiments, for example, the insertion of the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312 into the first panel receptacle configuration 122 is contemporaneous with the insertion of the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 322 into the second panel receptacle configuration 222.

In some embodiments, for example, the first panel 100, the second panel 200, and the joiner 300 are co-operatively configured such that, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312 is emplaced within the first panel receptacle configuration 122, and the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 322 is emplaced within the second panel receptacle configuration 222.

In some embodiments, each one of the at least one protrusion 310, of the protrusion configuration 312, is configured for insertion within a respective one of the at least one receptacle 120 of the first panel receptacle configuration 122, and each one of the at least one protrusion 320, of the protrusion configuration 322, is configured for insertion within a respective one of the at least one receptacle 220 of the second panel receptacle configuration 222.

In some embodiments, for example, transitioning, from the unassembled configuration to the joined configuration 14, is effected by at least a plurality of first panel co-operating protrusion insertions and a plurality of second panel co-operating protrusion insertions, such that the plurality of first panel co-operating protrusion insertions defines the insertion of the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312 into the first panel receptacle configuration 122, and the plurality of second panel co-operating protrusion insertions defines the insertion of the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 322 into the second panel receptacle configuration 222. Each one of the first panel co-operating protrusion insertions, independently, is an insertion of a one of the at least one protrusion 310 into a one of the at least one receptacle 120 which is respective to the one of the at least on protrusion 310, and each one of the second panel co-operating protrusion insertions, independently, is an insertion of a one of the at least one protrusion 320 into a one of the at least one receptacle 220 which is respective to the one of the at least one protrusion 320.

In some embodiments, for example, in the joined configuration 14, each one of the at least one protrusion 310, of the protrusion configuration 312, is emplaced within a respective one of the at least one receptacle 120 of the first panel receptacle configuration 122, and each one of the at least one protrusion 320, of the protrusion configuration 322, is emplaced within a respective one of the at least one receptacle 220 of the second panel receptacle configuration 222.

In some embodiments, for example, the defeating of the joined configuration 14 includes at least one of: (i) retraction of the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312 from the first panel receptacle configuration 122, and (ii) retraction of the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 322 from the second panel receptacle configuration 222.

In those embodiments where the first panel 100 includes a first panel receptacle configuration 122 defined by a single receptacle 120 and the second panel 200 includes a single panel receptacle configuration 222 defined by single receptacle 220, in some of these embodiments, for example, the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312 is defined by a single protrusion 310, and the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 322 is defined by a single protrusion 320.

In some embodiments, for example, for the first panel 100, each one of the at least one receptacle 120, independently, is defined by a respective channel 130, such that the first panel receptacle configuration 122 is a first panel channel configuration 132 defined by at least one channel 130, and, for the second panel 200, each one of the at least one receptacle 220, independently, is defined by a respective channel 230, such that the second panel receptacle configuration 222 is a second panel channel configuration 232 defined by at least one channel 230. Each one of the at least one channel 130, independently, is defined within the rear-facing surface 104 of the first panel 100 by a channel-defining surface 130S, and is recessed from a planar surface configuration 104A of the rear-facing surface 104, and each one of the at least one channel 230, independently, is defined within the rear-facing surface 204 of the second panel 200 by a channel-defining surface 230S, and is recessed from a planar surface configuration 204A of the rear-facing surface 204.

In some embodiments, for example, the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312 is configured for insertion into the first panel channel configuration 132, such that the disposition, of the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312 within the first panel channel configuration 132, is established in response to the insertion of the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312 into the first panel channel configuration 132.

In some embodiments, for example, the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 322 is configured for insertion into the second panel channel configuration 232, such that the disposition, of the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 322 within the second panel channel configuration 232, is established in response to the insertion of the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 322 into the second panel channel configuration 232.

Each one of the at least one channel 130, independently, defines a respective longitudinal axis 130X, and each one of the at least one channel 230, independently, defines a respective longitudinal axis 230X. In those embodiments where each one of the first and second panels, independently, is an extrudate, in some of these embodiments, for example, for each one of the at least one channel 130 of the first panel 100, the longitudinal axis 130X is perpendicular relative to the axis of extrusion of the first panel 100 (i.e. the longitudinal axis 100X), and for each one of the at least one channel 230 of the second panel 200, the longitudinal axis 230X is perpendicular relative to the axis of extrusion of the second panel 200 (i.e. the longitudinal axis 200X). In some embodiments, for example, the channel 130 has a uniform longitudinal cross-section along its length (I.e. along the longitudinal axis 130X, extending from the first end, of the channel, to the second end of the channel), and the channel 230 has a uniform longitudinal cross-section along its length (I.e. along the longitudinal axis 230X, extending from the first end, of the channel 230, to the second end of the channel 230X).

Correspondingly, each one of the at least one first panel co-operating protrusion 310, independently, is a longitudinally-extending protrusion 310 that extends along its longitudinal axis 310X (which is perpendicular relative to the longitudinal axis 100X of the panel 100), and each one of the at least one second panel co-operating protrusion 320, independently, is a longitudinally-extending protrusion 320 that extends along its longitudinal axis 320X (which is perpendicular relative to the longitudinal axis 200X of the panel 200). In some embodiments, for example, the longitudinally-extending protrusion 310 has a uniform longitudinal cross-section along its length (i.e. along the longitudinal axis 310X, extending from the first end, of the protrusion 310, to the second end of the protrusion 310), and the longitudinally-extending protrusion 320 has a uniform longitudinal cross-section along its length (i.e. along the longitudinal axis 320X, extending from the first end, of the protrusion 320, to the second end of the protrusion 320).

In some embodiments, for example, the first panel 100 and the joiner 300 are co-operatively configured such that, for each one of the at least one channel 130, independently, while a respective protrusion 310, of the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312 of the joiner 300, is longitudinally aligned with the channel 130, the respective protrusion 310 is insertable into the channel 130. In some embodiments, for example, the first panel 100 and the joiner 300 are co-operatively configured such that, for each one of the at least one channel 130, independently, the respective protrusion 310 is insertable into the channel 130 while the respective protrusion 310 is longitudinally aligned with the channel 130, only. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the at least one channel 130, independently, the insertion of the respective protrusion 310 into the channel 130 is effected by relative displacement between the respective protrusion 310 and the panel 100. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the first panel 100 and the joiner 300 are co-operatively configured such that, for each one of the at least one channel 130, independently, while the respective protrusion 310 is longitudinally aligned with the channel 130, in response to application of an insertion force, to the respective protrusion 310, in a direction towards, and in alignment with the longitudinal axis 130X of the channel 130, the respective protrusion 310 becomes inserted within the channel 130. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the at least one channel 130, the insertion of the respective protrusion 310, into the channel 130, includes a slidable insertion (see the pair of arrows depicted in FIG. 2, and FIG. 4 to FIG. 6).

In some embodiments, for example, the first panel 100 and the joiner 300 are co-operatively configured such that, for each one of the at least one channel 130, independently, while the respective protrusion 310 is emplaced within the channel 130, the respective protrusion 310 is retractable from the channel 130. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the first panel 100 and the joiner 300 are co-operatively configured such that, for each one of the at least one channel 130, independently, in response to application of a retraction force, to the respective protrusion 310, in a direction away from, and in alignment with the longitudinal axis 130X of, the channel 130, the respective protrusion 310 becomes retracted from the channel 130. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the at least one channel 130, independently, the retraction of the respective protrusion 310 from the channel 130 is effected by relative displacement between the respective protrusion 310 and the panel 100. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the at least one channel 130, the retraction of the respective protrusion 310, from the channel 130, includes a slidable retraction.

In some embodiments, for example, each one of the at least one channel 130, independently, includes an end 130E at which is defined a communicator 131, and the first panel 100 and the joiner 300 are co-operatively configured such that, for each one of the at least one channel 130, the respective protrusion 310 is insertable into, and, in some embodiments, retractable from, the channel 130 via the communicator 131. In some of these embodiments, for example, the first panel 100 and the joiner 300 are co-operatively configured such that, for each one of the at least one channel 130, the respective protrusion 310 is insertable into, and, in some embodiments, retractable from, the channel 130 via the communicator 131, only.

In some embodiments, for example, the second panel 200 and the joiner 300 are co-operatively configured such that, for each one of the at least one channel 230, independently, while a respective protrusion 320, of the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 322 of the joiner 300, is longitudinally aligned with the channel 230, the respective protrusion 320 is insertable into the channel 230. In some embodiments, for example, the second panel 200 and the joiner 300 are co-operatively configured such that, for each one of the at least one channel 230, independently, the respective protrusion 320 is insertable into the channel 230 while the respective protrusion 320 is longitudinally aligned with the channel 230, only. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the at least one channel 230, independently, the insertion of the respective protrusion 320 into the channel 230 is effected by relative displacement between the respective protrusion 320 and the panel 200. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the second panel 200 and the joiner 300 are co-operatively configured such that, for each one of the at least one channel 230, independently, while the respective protrusion 320 is longitudinally aligned with the channel 230, in response to application of an insertion force, to the respective protrusion 320, in a direction towards, and in alignment with the longitudinal axis 230X of the channel 230, the respective protrusion 320 becomes inserted within the channel 230. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the at least one channel 230, the insertion of the respective protrusion 320, into the channel 230, includes a slidable insertion (see the pair of arrows depicted in FIG. 2, and FIG. 4 to FIG. 6).

In some embodiments, for example, the second panel 200 and the joiner 300 are co-operatively configured such that, for each one of the at least one channel 230, independently, while the respective protrusion 320 is emplaced within the channel 230, the respective protrusion 320 is retractable from, the channel 230. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the second panel 200 and the joiner 300 are co-operatively configured such that, for each one of the at least one channel 230, independently, in response to application of a retraction force, to the respective protrusion 320, in a direction away from, and in alignment with the longitudinal axis 230X of the channel 230, the respective protrusion 320 becomes retracted from the channel 230. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the at least one channel 230, independently, the retraction of the respective protrusion 320 from the channel 230 is effected by relative displacement between the respective protrusion 320 and the panel 100. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the at least one channel 230, the retraction of the respective protrusion 320, from the channel 230, includes a slidable retraction.

In some embodiments, for example, each one of the at least one channel 230, independently, includes an end 230E at which is defined a communicator 231, and the second panel 200 and the joiner 300 are co-operatively configured such that, for each one of the at least one channel 230, independently, the protrusion 320 is insertable into, and, in some embodiments, retractable from, the channel 230 via the communicator 231. In some of these embodiments, for example, the second panel 200 and the joiner 300 are co-operatively configured such that, for each one of the at least one channel 230, independently, the respective protrusion 320 is insertable into, and, in some embodiments, retractable from, the channel 230 via the communicator 231, only.

In some embodiments, for example, the joiner 300 includes a connector 302. Each one of the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312 and the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 322, independently, extends transversely relative to the connector 302 such that, while the joined configuration 14 is established and is fastened to a building structure, each one of the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312 and the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 322, independently, extends remotely from the building structure. The connector 302 includes a first side 302A and a second side 302B. Relative to the first side 302A, the second side 302A is disposed on an opposite side of the connector 302. The first side 302A defines an outwardly-facing surface 304, and the second side 302B defines a panel-facing surface 306 (e.g. an inwardly facing surface). The outwardly-facing surface 304 defines an outermost planar surface configuration 304A (such that the first side 302A defines an outermost planar surface configuration 304A). The rear-facing surface 104, of the first panel 100, defines an outermost planar surface configuration 104B (such that the rear-facing surface 104 includes an outermost planar surface configuration 104B), and the rear-facing surface 204, of the first panel 200, defines an outermost planar surface configuration 204B (such that the rear-facing surface 204 includes an outermost planar surface configuration 204B).

Referring to FIG. 1 to FIG. 14, in some embodiments, for example, the first panel 100, the second panel 200, and the joiner 300 are co-operatively configured such that, while the joined configuration 14 is established (e.g. the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312, of the joiner 300, is emplaced within the first panel channel configuration 132, of the first panel 100, and the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 322, of the joiner 300, is emplaced within the second panel channel configuration 232, of the second panel 200), the joiner 300, the first panel 100, and the second panel 200 are connected via a form-fit connection. In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the joiner 300 and the first panel 100 are disposed in a form fit relationship, and the joiner 300 and the second panel 200 are disposed in a form fit relationship. In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, such that the joiner 300 and the first panel 100 are disposed in a form fit relationship, and the joiner 300 and the second panel 200 are disposed in a form fit relationship, the joiner 300, the first panel 100, and the second panel 200 are disposed in a form fit relationship.

In some embodiments, for example, the form fit relationship, between the joiner 300 and the first panel 100, is establishable in response to a slidable insertion of the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312 into the first panel channel configuration 132, only. In some embodiments, for example, the form fit relationship, between the joiner 300 and the second panel 200, is establishable in response to a slidable insertion of the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 322 from the second panel channel configuration 232, only.

In some embodiments, for example, the form fit relationship, between the joiner 300 and the first panel 100, is defeatable in response to a slidable retraction of the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312 from the first panel channel configuration 132, only. In some embodiments, for example, the form fit relationship, between the joiner 300 and the second panel 200, is defeatable in response to a slidable retraction of the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 322 from the second panel channel configuration 232, only.

In some embodiments, for example, the form-fit connection, between the joiner 300, the first panel 100, and the second panel 200, is with effect that displacement of the first panel 100, relative to the second panel 200, along an axis that is parallel to a normal axis 102X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 100X and to the lateral axis 101X of the first panel 100 (or, for that matter, to a normal axis 202X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 200X and to the lateral axis 201X of the second panel 200), is opposed (e.g. prevented), and displacement of the second panel 200, relative to the first panel 100, along an axis that is parallel to a normal axis 202X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 200X and to the lateral axis 201X of the second panel 200 (or, for that matter, to a normal axis 102X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 100X and to the lateral axis 101X of the first panel 100), is opposed (e.g. prevented). In some embodiments, for example, the normal axis 102X is parallel to a normal axis defined by a planar surface portion of the front-facing surface 102 of the first panel 100. In some embodiments, for example, the normal axis 102X is parallel to a normal axis defined by a planar surface portion of the rear-facing surface 104 of the first panel 100. In some embodiments, for example, the normal axis 202X is parallel to a normal axis defined by a planar surface portion of the front-facing surface 202 of the second panel 200. In some embodiments, for example, the normal axis 202X is parallel to a normal axis defined by a planar surface portion of the rear-facing surface 204 of the second panel 200.

In some embodiments, for example, the form-fit connection, between the joiner 300, the first panel 100, and the second panel 200, is with effect that angular displacement (e.g. rotational displacement) of the first panel 100, relative to the second panel 200, along an axis that is parallel to a normal axis 102X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 100X and to the lateral axis 101X of the first panel 100 (or, for that matter, to a normal axis 202X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 200X and to the lateral axis 201X of the second panel 200), is opposed (e.g. prevented), and angular displacement (e.g. rotational displacement) of the second panel 200, relative to the first panel 100, along an axis that is parallel to a normal axis 202X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 200X and to the lateral axis 201X of the second panel 200 (or, for that matter, to a normal axis 102X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 100X and to the lateral axis 101X of the first panel 100), is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, for example, the form-fit connection, between the joiner 300, the first panel 100, and the second panel 200, is defined by a dovetail connection. In some of these embodiments, for example, the first panel channel configuration 132 is defined by a single channel 130 and the second panel channel configuration 232 is defined by a single channel 230, and the first panel 100, the second panel 200, and the joiner 300 are co-operatively configured such that the dovetail connection becomes established in response to the emplacement of the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312, of the joiner 300, within the channel 130, of the first panel 100, and the emplacement of the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 322, of the joiner 300, within the second channel, of the second panel 200. In this respect, the first panel 100, the second panel 200, and the joiner 300 are co-operatively configured such that while the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312, of the joiner 300, is emplaced within the channel 130, of the first panel 100, and the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 322, of the joiner 300, is emplaced within the second channel, of the second panel 200, the dovetail connection is defined.

In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the channel 130 of the first panel 100 is defined by a channel-defining surface 130S. In some embodiments, for example, the channel-defining surface 130S defines a bottom surface 142 and a retaining surface 144 that extends between the rear facing surface 104 and the bottom surface 142. In some embodiments, for example, the retaining surface 144 is defined by an undercut surface. In some embodiments, for example, the bottom surface 142 is disposed forwardly of the rear facing surface 104, and, in some embodiments, for example, a normal axis defined by the bottom surface 142 is parallel to a normal axis defined by the rear facing surface 104. In some embodiments, for example, the retaining surface 144 is disposed at an angle relative to the rear facing surface 104 (e.g. in a non-parallel relationship), and also disposed at an angle relative to the bottom surface 142 (e.g. in a non-parallel relationship). In some embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between a normal axis defined by the retaining surface 144 and a normal axis defined by the rear facing surface 104 (e.g. by the planar surface portion 104A) has a maximum value of at most 80 degrees, for example, at most 70 degrees, for example, at most 60 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between a normal axis defined by the retaining surface 144 and a normal axis defined by the rear facing surface 104 (e.g. by the planar surface portion 104A) has a value of 67.5 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between a normal axis defined by the retaining surface 144 and a normal axis defined by the bottom surface 142 has a maximum value of at most 80 degrees, for example, at most 70 degrees, for example, at most 60 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between a normal axis defined by the retaining surface 144 and a normal axis defined by the bottom surface 142 has a value of 67.5 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the longitudinal cross-section of the channel 130, taken along the axis 130X, which, in some embodiments, for example, is an axis that is parallel to a lateral axis 101X of the panel 100 (e.g. along an axis that extends between the upper horizontal outermost surface 106 and the lower horizontal outermost surface 108) has a dovetail shape. That is, the width of the channel 130, measured along an axis that is parallel to a longitudinal axis of the panel 100 (e.g. along an axis that extends between the first vertical outermost surface 110 and the second vertical outermost surface 112) increases as the channel 130 extends inwardly from the rear facing surface 104. In some embodiments, for example, the width of the channel 130 has a minimum value of at least ⅛ inches, such as, for example, at least ¼ inches, such as, for example, at least ⅜ inches. In some embodiments, for example, the dovetail angle of the channel 130 has a minimum value of at least 10 degrees, for example, at least 20 degrees, for example, at least 30 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the dovetail angle of the channel 130 has a value of 22.5 degrees.

In some embodiments, for example, the channel 230 of the second panel 200 is defined by a channel-defining surface 230S. In some embodiments, for example, the channel-defining surface 230S defines a bottom surface 242 and a retaining surface 244 that extends between the rear facing surface 204 and the bottom surface 242. In some embodiments, for example, the retaining surface 244 is defined by an undercut surface. In some embodiments, for example, the bottom surface 242 is disposed forwardly of the rear facing surface 204, and, in some embodiments, for example, a normal axis defined by the bottom surface 242 is parallel to a normal axis defined by the rear facing surface 204. In some embodiments, for example, the retaining surface 244 is disposed at an angle relative to the rear facing surface 204 (e.g. in a non-parallel relationship), and also disposed at an angle relative to the bottom surface 242 (e.g. in a non-parallel relationship). In some embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between a normal axis defined by the retaining surface 244 and a normal axis defined by the rear facing surface 204 (e.g. by the planar surface portion 204A) has a maximum value of at most 80 degrees, for example, at most 70 degrees, for example, at most 60 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between a normal axis defined by the retaining surface 244 and a normal axis defined by the rear facing surface 204 (e.g. by the planar surface portion 204A) has a value of 67.5 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between a normal axis defined by the retaining surface 244 and a normal axis defined by the bottom surface 242 has a maximum value of at most 80 degrees, for example, at most 70 degrees, for example, at most 60 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between a normal axis defined by the retaining surface 244 and a normal axis defined by the bottom surface 242 has a value of 67.5 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the longitudinal cross-section of the channel 230, taken along the axis 230X, which, in some embodiments, for example, is an axis that is parallel to a lateral axis of the panel 200 (e.g. along an axis that extends between the upper horizontal outermost surface 206 and the lower horizontal outermost surface 208) has a dovetail shape. That is, the width of the channel 230, measured along an axis that is parallel to a longitudinal axis of the panel 200 (e.g. along an axis that extends between the second vertical outermost surface 220 and the second vertical outermost surface 222) increases as the channel 230 extends inwardly from the rear facing surface 204. In some embodiments, for example, the width of the channel 230 has a minimum value of at least ⅛ inches, for example, at least ¼ inches, for example, at least ⅜ inches. In some embodiments, for example, the dovetail angle of the channel 230 has a minimum value of at least 10 degrees, for example, at least 20 degrees, for example, at least 30 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the dovetail angle of the channel 230 has a value of 22.5 degrees.

In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the at least one first panel co-operating protrusions 310 of the joiner 300, the first panel co-operating protrusion 310 includes a retaining member 314 and an end member 316. As depicted, the retaining member 314 is connected, at a first end, to the panel-facing surface 306 of the connector 302, and the end member 316 is connected to the retaining member 314 at a second end of the retaining member 314 that is opposite the first end. The end member 316 is disposed forwardly of the connector 302. In some embodiments, for example, a normal axis defined by a front facing surface of the end member 316 and a normal axis defined by the panel-facing surface 306 of the connector 302 are disposed in a parallel relationship. In some embodiments, for example, a normal axis defined by a rear facing surface of the end member 316 and a normal axis defined by the outwardly facing surface 304 of the connector 302 are disposed in a parallel relationship. In some embodiments, for example, the retaining member 314 is disposed at an angle, relative to the connector 302 (e.g. in a non-parallel relationship), and is also disposed at an angle, relative to the end member 316 (e.g. in a non-parallel relationship). In some embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between a normal axis defined by a front facing surface of the retaining member 314 and a normal axis defined by the outwardly facing surface 304 has a maximum value of at most 80 degrees, for example, at most 70 degrees, for example, at most 60 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between a normal axis defined by the front facing surface of the retaining member 314 and a normal axis defined by the outwardly facing surface 304 has a value of 67.5 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between a normal axis defined by the front facing surface of the retaining member 314 and a normal axis defined by the rear facing surface of the end member 316 has a maximum value of at most 80 degrees, for example, at most 70 degrees, for example, at most 60 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between a normal axis defined by the front facing surface of the retaining member 314 and a normal axis defined by the rear facing surface of the end member 316 has a value of 67.5 degrees.

In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the at least one second panel co-operating protrusions 320 of the joiner 300, the second panel co-operating protrusion 320 includes a retaining member 324 and an end member 326. As depicted, the retaining member 324 is connected, at a first end, to the panel-facing surface 306 of the connector 302, and the end member 326 is connected to the retaining member 324 at a second end of the retaining member 324 that is opposite the first end. The end member 326 is disposed forwardly of the connector 302. In some embodiments, for example, a normal axis defined by a front facing surface of the end member 326 and a normal axis defined by the panel-facing surface 306 of the connector 302 are disposed in a parallel relationship. In some embodiments, for example, a normal axis defined by a rear facing surface of the end member 326 and a normal axis defined by the outwardly facing surface 304 of the connector 302 are disposed in a parallel relationship. In some embodiments, for example, the retaining member 324 is disposed at an angle, relative to the connector 302 (e.g. in a non-parallel relationship), and is also disposed at an angle, relative to the end member 326 (e.g. in a non-parallel relationship). In some embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between a normal axis defined by a front facing surface of the retaining member 324 and a normal axis defined by the outwardly facing surface 304 has a maximum value of at most 80 degrees, for example, at most 70 degrees, for example, at most 60 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between a normal axis defined by the front facing surface of the retaining member 324 and a normal axis defined by the outwardly facing surface 304 has a value of 67.5 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between a normal axis defined by the front facing surface of the retaining member 324 and a normal axis defined by the rear facing surface of the end member 326 has a maximum value of at most 80 degrees, for example, at most 70 degrees, for example, at most 60 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between a normal axis defined by the front facing surface of the retaining member 324 and a normal axis defined by the rear facing surface of the end member 326 has a value of 67.5 degrees.

In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in FIG. 1, the form-fit relationship of the first panel 100 and the joiner 300, and the form-fit relationship of the second panel 200 and the joiner 300, for establishing the joined configuration 14, is a dovetail joint 500, for example, a sliding dovetail joint. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the first panel 100 includes a first panel connection counterpart 150, and the second panel 200 includes a second panel connection counterpart 250. In some embodiments, for example, the first panel connection counterpart 150 of the first panel 100 that includes a first panel surface of the first panel 100. As depicted, the first panel connection counterpart 150 includes the second vertical outermost surface 112. In some embodiments, for example, the first panel connection counterpart 150 includes the rear facing surface 104 that extends from the second vertical outermost surface 112. In some embodiments, for example, the first panel connection counterpart 150 includes the retaining surface 144. In some embodiments, for example, the second panel connection counterpart 250 of the second panel 200 includes a second panel surface of the second panel 200. As depicted, the second panel connection counterpart 250 includes the first vertical outermost surface 210. In some embodiments, for example, the second panel connection counterpart 250 includes the rear facing surface 204 that extends from the first vertical outermost surface 210. In some embodiments, for example, the second panel connection counterpart 250 includes the retaining surface 244. In some embodiments, for example, a pin 402 of the dovetail joint 500 is defined by a co-operative configuration of the first panel connection counterpart 150 and the second panel connection counterpart 250. In some embodiments, for example, the first connection counterpart 150 and the second panel connection counterpart 250 are co-operatively configured such that, while the co-operating configuration of the first connection counterpart 150 and the second panel connection counterpart 250 is established, the first connection counterpart 150 and the second panel connection counterpart 250 are disposed in an abutting engagement between the first and second panel surfaces. As depicted, while the co-operating configuration of the first connection counterpart 150 and the second panel connection counterpart 250 is established, the first connection counterpart 150 and the second panel connection counterpart 250 are disposed in an abutting engagement between the second vertical outermost surface 112 and the first vertical outermost surface 210. In some embodiments, for example, the joiner 300 defines a tail 340 of the dovetail joint 500. In some embodiments, for example, each one of the first panel co-operating protrusion 310 and the second panel co-operating protrusion 320 of the joiner 300, independently, defines a tail 340 of the dovetail joint 500. In some embodiments, for example, the joiner 300 defines a space defined between the first panel co-operating protrusion 310 and the second panel co-operating protrusion 320 of the joiner 300 for receiving the pin 402. The longitudinal cross-section of the pin 402, taken along an axis that is parallel to the lateral axis of the first panel 100 or the second panel 200, has a dovetail shape, and the longitudinal cross-section of the space defined by the tail 340, taken along an axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the joiner 300, which, in some embodiments, for example, is parallel to the longitudinal axis 310X, and, in some embodiments, for example, parallel to the longitudinal axis 320X, has a dovetail shape that corresponds to the longitudinal cross-section of the pin 402. In some embodiments, for example, the width of the pin 402, measured along an axis that is parallel to a longitudinal axis of the panel 100 or of the panel 200 increases as the pin 402 extends towards the rear facing surface 104 and towards the rear facing surface 204. In some embodiments, for example, the dovetail joint 500 is defined by a co-operating configuration of the tail 340 and the pin 402. While the pin 402 is established, the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312 is being slidably inserted into the first panel receptacle configuration 122, and the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 322 is being slidably inserted into the second panel receptacle configuration 222, the pin 402 is being slidably received in the tail 340 of the joiner 300. In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the pin 402 is disposed in the tail 340 of the joiner.

In some embodiments, for example, the joined configuration 14 is defined by co-operation between the joiner 300, the first panel connection counterpart 150 of the first panel 100, the second panel connection counterpart 250 of the second panel 200, and the channel-defining surfaces 130S and 230S, including the retaining surfaces 144 and 244 which are defined by undercut surfaces.

In some embodiments, for example, first panel 100, the second panel 200, and the joiner 300 are co-operatively configured such that, while the joined configuration 14 is established: (i) the rear facing surface 104 of the first panel 100 and the panel-facing surface 306 of the connector 302 are disposed in an abutting relationship, (ii) the retaining member 314 and the retaining surface 144 are disposed in an abutting relationship, and (iii) the end member 316 and the bottom surface 142 are disposed in an abutting relationship, with effect that the joiner 300 and the first panel 100 are disposed in force transfer communication, and (i) the rear facing surface 204 of the second panel 200 and the panel-facing surface 306 of the connector 302 are disposed in an abutting relationship, (ii) the retaining member 324 and the retaining surface 244 are disposed in an abutting relationship, and (iii) the end member 326 and the bottom surface 242 are disposed in an abutting relationship, with effect that the joiner 300 and the second panel 200 are disposed in force transfer communication, and the second vertical outermost surface 112 of the first panel 100 and the first vertical outermost surface 210 of the second panel 200 are disposed in abutting relationship, with effect that the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 are disposed in force transfer communication.

In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the retaining member 314 and the retaining surface 144 are co-operatively configured such that displacement of the first panel 100, relative to the second panel 200, along an axis that is parallel to a normal axis 102X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 100X and to the lateral axis 101X of the first panel 100 (or, for that matter, to the longitudinal axis 200X and to the lateral axis 201X of the second panel 200), in a direction away from the connector 302 (e.g. forward displacement of the first panel 100, relative to the second panel 200), is opposed (e.g. prevented). In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the retaining member 324 and the retaining surface 244 are co-operatively configured such that displacement of the second panel 200, relative to the first panel 100, along an axis that is parallel to a normal axis 202X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 200X and to the lateral axis 201X of the second panel 200 (or, for that matter, to the longitudinal axis 100X and to the lateral axis 101X of the first panel 100), in a direction away from the connector 302 (e.g. forward displacement of the second panel 200, relative to the first panel 100), is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the panel facing surface 306 of the connector 302, the rear facing surface 104, the end member 316, and the bottom surface 142 are co-operatively configured such that displacement of the first panel, relative to the second panel 200, along an axis that is parallel to a normal axis 102X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 100X and to the lateral axis 101X of the first panel 100 (or, for that matter, to the longitudinal axis 200X and to the lateral axis 201X of the second panel 200), in a direction towards the connector 302 (e.g. rearward displacement of the first panel 100, relative to the second panel 200), is opposed (e.g. prevented). In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the panel facing surface 306 of the connector 302, the rear facing surface 204, the end member 326, and the bottom surface 242 are co-operatively configured such that displacement of the second panel 200, relative to the first panel 100, along an axis that is parallel to a normal axis 202X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 200X and to the lateral axis 201X of the second panel 200 (or, for that matter, to the longitudinal axis 100X and to the lateral axis 101X of the first panel 100), in a direction towards the connector 302 (e.g. rearward displacement of the second panel 200, relative to the first panel 100), is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the retaining member 314 and the retaining surface 144 are co-operatively configured such that displacement of the first panel 100, along an axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis 100X of the first panel 100 (or, for that matter, to the longitudinal axis 200X of the second panel 200), in a direction away from the second panel 200, is opposed (e.g. prevented). In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the retaining member 324 and the retaining surface 244 are co-operatively configured such that displacement of the second panel 200, along an axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis 200X of the second panel 200 (or, for that matter, to the longitudinal axis 100X of the first panel 100), in a direction away from the first panel 100, is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the second vertical outermost surface 112 of the first panel 100 and the first vertical outermost surface 210 of the second panel 200 are co-operatively configured such that displacement of the first panel 100, along an axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis 100X of the first panel 100 (or, for that matter, to the longitudinal axis 200X of the second panel 200), in a direction towards the second panel 200, is opposed (e.g. prevented). In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the second vertical outermost surface 112 of the first panel 100 and the first vertical outermost surface 210 of the second panel 200 are co-operatively configured such that displacement of the second panel 200, along an axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis 200X of the second panel 200 (or, for that matter, to the longitudinal axis 100X of the first panel 100), in a direction towards the first panel 100, is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the retaining member 314, the retaining surface 144, the bottom surface 142, the end member 316, the panel facing surface 306 of the connector 302, and the rear facing surface 104 of the first panel connection counterpart 150 are co-operatively configured such that angular displacement (e.g. rotational displacement) of the first panel 100, about an axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis 100X of the first panel 100 (or for that matter, the longitudinal axis 200X of the second panel 200), is opposed (e.g. prevented). In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the retaining member 324, the retaining surface 244, the bottom surface 242, the end member 326, the panel facing surface 306 of the connector 302, and the rear facing surface 204 of the second panel connection counterpart 250 are co-operatively configured such that angular displacement (e.g. rotational displacement) of the second panel 200, about an axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis 200X of the second panel 200 (or for that matter, the longitudinal axis 100X of the first panel 100), is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the retaining member 314, the retaining surface 144, the bottom surface 142, the end member 316, the panel facing surface 306 of the connector 302, the rear facing surface 104 of the first panel connection counterpart 150, the second vertical outermost surface 112 of the first panel 100, and the first vertical outermost surface 210 of the second panel 200 are co-operatively configured such that angular displacement (e.g. rotational displacement) of the first panel 100, about an axis that is parallel to the lateral axis 101X of the first panel 100 (or for that matter, the lateral axis 201X of the second panel 200), is opposed (e.g. prevented). In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the retaining member 324, the retaining surface 244, the bottom surface 242, the end member 326, the panel facing surface 306 of the connector 302, the rear facing surface 204 of the second panel connection counterpart 250, second vertical outermost surface 112 of the first panel 100 and the first vertical outermost surface 210 of the second panel 200 are co-operatively configured such that angular displacement (e.g. rotational displacement) of the second panel 200, about an axis that is parallel to the lateral axis 201X of the second panel 200 (or for that matter, the lateral axis 101X of the first panel 100), is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the retaining member 314, the retaining surface 144, the second vertical outermost surface 112 of the first panel 100 and the first vertical outermost surface 210 of the second panel 200 are co-operatively configured such that angular displacement (e.g. rotational displacement) of the first panel 100, about an axis that is parallel to a normal axis 102X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 100X and to the lateral axis 101X of the first panel 100 (or for that matter, the longitudinal axis 200X and the lateral axis 201X of the second panel 200), is opposed (e.g. prevented). In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the retaining member 324, the retaining surface 244, the second vertical outermost surface 112 of the first panel 100 and the first vertical outermost surface 210 of the second panel 200 are co-operatively configured such that angular displacement (e.g. rotational displacement) of the second panel 200, about an axis that is parallel to a normal axis 202X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 200X and to the lateral axis 201X of the second panel 200 (or for that matter, the longitudinal axis 100X and the lateral axis 101X of the first panel 100), is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the retaining member 314, the retaining surface 144, the retaining member 324, and the retaining surface 244 are co-operatively configured such that displacement of the joiner 300, relative to the first panel 100 and the second panel 200, along an axis that is parallel to a normal axis 102X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 100X and to the lateral axis 101X of the first panel 100 (or, for that matter, along an axis that is parallel to a normal axis 202X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 200X and to the lateral axis 201X of the second panel 200), in a direction away from the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 (e.g. rearward displacement of the joiner 300, relative to the first and second panels 100, 200), or rearward retraction of the joiner 300 from the first and second panels 100, 200, is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the end member 316 and the bottom surface 142 are co-operatively configured such that bending of the first panel 100, about an axis that is parallel to the lateral axis 101X of the first panel 100, which, in some embodiments, for example, is urged by expansion and contraction of the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 caused by temperature or by the wind, is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the end member 326 and the bottom surface 242 are co-operatively configured such that bending of the second panel 200, about an axis that is parallel to the lateral axis 201X of the second panel 200, which, in some embodiments, for example, is urged by expansion and contraction of the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 caused by temperature or by the wind, is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in FIG. 1 to FIG. 11 and FIG. 14, the first panel receptacle configuration 122 and the first panel connection counterpart 150 are defined at a first end 103 (e.g. a right end) of the first panel 100, and the second panel receptacle configuration 222 and the second panel connection counterpart 250 are defined at a first end 205 (e.g. a left end) of the second panel 200. In some embodiments, for example, the first panel 100 includes a second panel receptacle configuration 162 and a second panel connection counterpart 170, which are substantially similar to the second panel receptacle configuration 222 and the second panel connection counterpart 250 of the second panel 200, at a second end 105 (e.g. left end) of the first panel 100 that is opposite the first end 103, such that additional panels, substantially similar to the panels 100, 200 depicted in FIG. 1 to FIG. 11 and FIG. 14, can be connected to the first panel 100 with additional joiners 300 via establishing a form fit relationship between the panels and the joiners 300, as described above, and the second panel 200 includes a first panel receptacle configuration 262 and a first panel connection counterpart 270, which are substantially similar to the first panel receptacle configuration 122 and the first panel connection counterpart 150, at a second end 203 (e.g. a right end) of the second panel 200 that is opposite the first end 205, such that additional panels, substantially similar to the panels 100, 200 depicted in FIG. 1 to FIG. 11 and FIG. 14, can be connected to the second panel 200 with additional joiners 300 via establishing a form fit relationship between the panels and the joiners 300, as described above, and that the joined configuration 14 can be defined by co-operative configuration of the joiner 300, the second panel receptacle configuration 162, the second panel connection counterpart 170, the first panel receptacle configuration 262 and the first panel connection counterpart 270, in a manner substantially similar to the manner as described above with respect to the joiner 300, first panel receptacle configuration 122, the first panel connection counterpart 150, the second panel receptacle configuration 222, and the second panel connection counterpart 250. In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in FIG. 1 to FIG. 11 and FIG. 14, the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 are substantially identical.

Referring to FIG. 15 to FIG. 19, in some embodiments, for example, the first panel 100, the second panel 200, and the joiner 300 are co-operatively configured such that, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the joiner 300 and the first panel 100 are disposed in snap fit engagement, and the joiner 300 and the second panel 200 are disposed in snap fit engagement. In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the joiner 300 and the first panel 100 are disposed in a snap fit relationship, and the joiner 300 and the second panel 200 are disposed in a snap fit relationship. In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, such that the joiner 300 and the first panel 100 are disposed in a snap fit relationship, and the joiner 300 and the second panel 200 are disposed in a snap fit relationship, the joiner 300, the first panel 100, and the second panel 200 are disposed in an abutting relationship.

In some embodiments, for example, the snap-fit connection, between the joiner 300, the first panel 100, and the second panel 200, is with effect that displacement of the first panel 100, relative to the second panel 200, along an axis that is parallel to a normal axis 102X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 100X and to the lateral axis 101X of the first panel 100 (or, for that matter, to a normal axis 202X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 200X and to the lateral axis 201X of the second panel 200), is opposed (e.g. prevented), and displacement of the second panel 200, relative to the first panel 100, along an axis that is parallel to a normal axis 202X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 200X and to the lateral axis 201X of the second panel 200 (or, for that matter, to a normal axis 102X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 100X and to the lateral axis 101X of the first panel 100), is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, for example, the snap-fit connection, between the joiner 300, the first panel 100, and the second panel 200, is with effect that angular displacement (e.g. rotational displacement) of the first panel 100, relative to the second panel 200, along an axis that is parallel to a normal axis 102X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 100X and to the lateral axis 101X of the first panel 100 (or, for that matter, to a normal axis 202X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 200X and to the lateral axis 201X of the second panel 200), is opposed (e.g. prevented), and angular displacement (e.g. rotational displacement) of the second panel 200, relative to the first panel 100, along an axis that is parallel to a normal axis 202X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 200X and to the lateral axis 201X of the second panel 200 (or, for that matter, to a normal axis 102X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 100X and to the lateral axis 101X of the first panel 100), is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In those embodiments where the first panel 100 includes at least one respective receptacle 120, such that a first panel receptacle configuration 122 is defined by the at least one receptacle 120 that is respective to the first panel 100, and the second panel 200 includes at least one respective receptacle 220, such that a second panel receptacle configuration 222 is defined by the at least one receptacle 220 that is respective to the second panel 200, the joiner 300 includes at least one first panel co-operating protrusion 310, such that a first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312 is defined by the at least one first panel co-operating protrusion 310, and at least one second panel co-operating protrusion 320, such that a second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 322 is defined by the at least one second panel co-operating protrusion 320. In some embodiments, for example, for the first panel 100, each one of the at least one receptacle 120, independently, is defined by a respective channel 130, and, for the second panel 200, each one of the at least one receptacle 220, independently, is defined by a respective channel 230. Each one of the at least one channel 130, independently, is defined within the rear-facing surface 104 of the first panel 100 by a channel-defining surface 130S, and is recessed from a planar surface configuration 104A of the rear-facing surface 104, and each one of the at least one channel 230, independently, is defined within the rear-facing surface 204 of the second panel 200 by a channel-defining surface 230S, and is recessed from a planar surface configuration 204A of the rear-facing surface 204.

The first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312 is configured for insertion into the first panel receptacle configuration 122, and the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 322 is configured for insertion into the second panel receptacle configuration 222. In some of these embodiments, for example, the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312 and the first panel receptacle configuration 122 are co-operatively configured such that, in response to insertion of the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312 into the first panel receptacle configuration 122, a snap fit engagement is established between the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312 and the first panel receptacle configuration 122, with effect that a snap fit engagement, between the joiner 300 and the first panel 100, is established, and the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 322 and the second panel receptacle configuration 222 are co-operatively configured such that, in response to insertion of the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 322 into the second panel receptacle configuration 22, a snap fit engagement is established between the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312 and the second panel receptacle configuration 222, with effect that a snap fit engagement, between the joiner 300 and the second panel 200, is established.

In some embodiments, for example, the first panel receptacle configuration 122 is defined by two receptacles 120, the second panel receptacle configuration 222 is defined by one receptacle 220, the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312 is defined by two first panel co-operating protrusions 310, and the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 322 is defined by one second panel co-operating protrusion 320. In such embodiments, for example, the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312 and the first panel receptacle configuration 122 are co-operatively configured such that, for each one of the first panel co-operating protrusions 310, independently, in response to insertion of the first panel co-operating protrusion 310 into the respective first receptacle 120, a snap fit engagement is established between the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312 and the respective first panel receptacle 120, with effect that a snap fit engagement, between the joiner 300 and the first panel 100, is established, and the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 322 and the second panel receptacle configuration 222 are co-operatively configured such that, in response to insertion of the second panel co-operating protrusion 320 into the receptacle 220, a snap fit engagement is established between the second panel co-operating protrusion 320 and the second panel receptacle 220, with effect that a snap fit engagement, between the joiner 300 and the second panel 200, is established.

In some embodiments, for example, the insertion, of the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312 into the first panel receptacle configuration 122, includes a pressing insertion, and the insertion of the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 322, into the second panel receptacle configuration 222, includes a pressing insertion (see the pair of arrows depicted in FIG. 16 and FIG. 17).

In some embodiments, for example, the first panel 100, the second panel 200, and the joiner 300 are co-operatively configured such that, while the joined configuration 14 is established: the snap fit engagement, between the joiner 300 and the first panel 100, is defeatable in response to a retraction of the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312 from the first panel receptacle configuration 122, and the snap fit engagement, between the joiner 300 and the second panel 200, is defeatable in response to a retraction of the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 322 from the second panel receptacle configuration 222.

In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the channels 130 of the first panel 100, independently, the channel 130 is defined by a channel defining surface 130S. in some embodiments, for example, the channel defining surface 130S includes a retaining surface 144 that is defined by an undercut surface. In some embodiments, for example, the retaining surface 144 is disposed forwardly of the rear facing surface 104, and, in some embodiments, for example, a normal axis defined by the retaining surface 144 is parallel to a normal axis defined by the rear facing surface 104 (e.g. by the planar surface portion 104A). In some embodiments, for example, the longitudinal cross-section of the channel 130, taken along the axis 130X, which, in some embodiments, for example, is an axis that is parallel to a lateral axis 101X of the panel 100 (e.g. along an axis that extends between the upper horizontal outermost surface 106 and the lower horizontal outermost surface 108) has a T-shape. As depicted in FIG. 15 and FIG. 19, in some embodiments, for example, the first panel receptacle configuration 122 includes a first channel 130A and a second channel 130B.

In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the channels 230 of the second panel 200, independently, the channel 230 is defined by a channel defining surface 230S. In some embodiments, for example, the channel defining surface 230S includes a retaining surface 244 that is defined by an undercut surface. In some embodiments, for example, the retaining surface 244 is disposed forwardly of the rear facing surface 204, and, in some embodiments, for example, a normal axis defined by the retaining surface 244 is parallel to a normal axis defined by the rear facing surface 204 (e.g. by the planar surface portion 204A). In some embodiments, for example, the longitudinal cross-section of the channel 130, taken along the axis 230X, which, in some embodiments, for example, is an axis that is parallel to a lateral axis 201X of the panel 200 (e.g. along an axis that extends between the upper horizontal outermost surface 206 and the lower horizontal outermost surface 208) has a T-shape. As depicted in FIG. 15 and FIG. 19, in some embodiments, for example, the second panel receptacle configuration 222 includes a first channel 230A.

As depicted, the barb 319 of the first prong 317A extends from the arm 318 in a direction towards the second prong 317B and also towards the first prong 327A, the barb 319 of the second prong 317B extends from the arm 318 in a direction towards the first prong 317A and away from the first prong 327A, and the barb 329 of the first prong 327A extends from the arm 328 in a direction towards the first prong 317A and also towards the second prong 317B.

In some embodiments, for example, the joined configuration 14 is defined by co-operation between the barbs 319, 329 and the retaining surfaces 144 and 244 which are defined by undercut surfaces.

In some embodiments, for example, the insertion of the respective first panel co-operating protrusion 310 in the channel 130, to effectuate the snap fit engagement between the joiner 300 and the first panel 100, is along an axis that is parallel to a normal axis defined by the retaining surface 144. In some embodiments, for example, the insertion of the respective second panel co-operating protrusion 320 in the channel 230, to effectuate the snap fit engagement between the joiner 300 and the second panel 200, is along an axis that is parallel to a normal axis defined by the retaining surface 244.

In some embodiments, for example, first panel 100, the second panel 200, and the joiner 300 are co-operatively configured such that, while the joined configuration 14 is established: (i) the rear facing surface 104 of the first panel 100 and the panel-facing surface 306 of the connector 302 are disposed in an abutting relationship, and (ii) for each one of the first panel co-operating protrusions 310, independently, the barb 319 is retained by the retaining surface 144 of the channel defining surface 130S of the respective channel 130, with effect that the joiner 300 and the first panel 100 are disposed in force transfer communication, and (i) the rear facing surface 204 of the second panel 200 and the panel-facing surface 306 of the connector 302 are disposed in an abutting relationship, and (ii) for each one of the second panel co-operating protrusions 320, independently, the barb 329 is retained by the retaining surface 244 of the channel defining surface 230S of the respective channel 230, with effect that the joiner 300 and the second panel 200 are disposed in force transfer communication, and the second vertical outermost surface 112 of the first panel 100 and the first vertical outermost surface 210 of the second panel 200 are disposed in abutting relationship, with effect that the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 are disposed in force transfer communication.

In some embodiments, for example, the snap fit relationship, between the joiner 300 and the first panel 100, is defeatable in response to defeating of the retention of the respective barb 319 by the retaining surface 144. In some embodiments, for example, the snap fit relationship, between the joiner 300 and the second panel 200, is defeatable in response to defeating of the retention of the respective barb 329 by the retaining surface 244.

In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in FIG. 15, the first panel 100 includes a first panel connection counterpart 150, and the second panel 200 includes a second panel connection counterpart 250. In some embodiments, for example, the first panel connection counterpart 150 of the first panel 100 that includes a first panel surface of the first panel 100. As depicted, the first panel connection counterpart 150 includes the second vertical outermost surface 112. In some embodiments, for example, the first panel connection counterpart 150 includes the rear facing surface 104 that extends from the second vertical outermost surface 112. In some embodiments, for example, the first panel connection counterpart 150 includes a retaining surface 144 of the second channel 130B. In some embodiments, for example, the second panel connection counterpart 250 of the second panel 200 includes a second panel surface of the second panel 200. As depicted, the second panel connection counterpart 250 includes the first vertical outermost surface 210. In some embodiments, for example, the second panel connection counterpart 250 includes the rear facing surface 204 that extends from the first vertical outermost surface 210. In some embodiments, for example, the second panel connection counterpart 250 includes a retaining surface 244 of the first channel 230A. In some embodiments, for example, a T-shaped connector 402 is defined by a co-operatively configuration of the first panel connection counterpart 150 and the second panel connection counterpart 250. In some embodiments, for example, the first connection counterpart 150 and the second panel connection counterpart 250 are co-operatively configured such that, while the co-operating configuration of the first connection counterpart 150 and the second panel connection counterpart 250 is established, the first connection counterpart 150 and the second panel connection counterpart 250 are disposed in an abutting engagement between the first and second panel surfaces. As depicted, while the co-operating configuration of the first connection counterpart 150 and the second panel connection counterpart 250 is established, the first connection counterpart 150 and the second panel connection counterpart 250 are disposed in an abutting engagement between the second vertical outermost surface 112 and the first vertical outermost surface 210. In some embodiments, for example, the joiner 300 defines a connector receiver 340. In some embodiments, for example, the connector receiver 340 defines a space defined between the second barb 317B and the first barb 327A of the joiner 300 for receiving the T-shaped connector 402. The longitudinal cross-section of the T-shaped connector 402, taken along an axis that is parallel to the lateral axis of the first panel 100 or the second panel 200, has a T-shape, and the longitudinal cross-section of the space defined by the connector receiver 340, taken along an axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the joiner 300, which, in some embodiments, for example, is parallel to the longitudinal axis 310X, and, in some embodiments, for example, parallel to the longitudinal axis 320X, has a shape for receiving the T-shaped connector 402. While the T-shaped connector 402 is established, the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 312 is being slidably inserted into the first panel receptacle configuration 122, and the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 322 is being slidably inserted into the second panel receptacle configuration 222, the T-shaped connector 402 is being slidably received in the connector receiver 340 of the joiner 300. In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the T-shaped connector 402 is disposed in the connector receiver 340 of the joiner.

In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the barb 319 of the first prong 317A, the retaining surface 144 of the first channel 130A, the barb 319 of the second prong 317B, and the retaining surface 144 of the second channel 130B are co-operatively configured such that displacement of the first panel 100, relative to the second panel 200, along an axis that is parallel to a normal axis 102X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 100X and to the lateral axis 101X of the first panel 100 (or, for that matter, to a normal axis 202X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 200X and to the lateral axis 201X of the second panel 200), in a direction away from the connector 302 (e.g. forward displacement of the first panel 100, relative to the second panel 200), is opposed (e.g. prevented). In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the barb 319 of the first prong 327A and the retaining surface 244 of the channel 230A are co-operatively configured such that displacement of the second panel 200, relative to the first panel 100, along an axis that is parallel to a normal axis 202X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 200X and to the lateral axis 201X of the second panel 200 (or, for that matter, to a normal axis 102X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 100X and to the lateral axis 101X of the first panel 100), in a direction away from the connector 302 (e.g. forward displacement of the second panel 200, relative to the first panel 100), is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the panel facing surface 306 of the connector 302 and the rear facing surface 104 are co-operatively configured such that displacement of the first panel, relative to the second panel 200, along an axis that is parallel to a normal axis 102X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 100X and to the lateral axis 101X of the first panel 100 (or, for that matter, to a normal axis 202X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 200X and to the lateral axis 201X of the second panel 200), in a direction towards the connector 302 (e.g. rearward displacement of the first panel 100, relative to the second panel 200), is opposed (e.g. prevented). In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the panel facing surface 306 of the connector 302 and the rear facing surface 204 are co-operatively configured such that displacement of the second panel 200, relative to the first panel 100, along an axis that is parallel to a normal axis 202X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 200X and to the lateral axis 201X of the second panel 200 (or, for that matter, to a normal axis 102X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 100X and to the lateral axis 101X of the first panel 100), in a direction towards the connector 302 (e.g. rearward displacement of the second panel 200, relative to the first panel 100), is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the arm 318 of the first prong 317A and the channel defining surface 130S of the first channel 130A are co-operatively configured such that displacement of the first panel 100, along an axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis 100X of the first panel 100 (or, for that matter, to the longitudinal axis 200X of the second panel 200), in a direction away from the second panel 200, is opposed (e.g. prevented). In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the arm 328 of the first prong 327A and the channel defining surface 230S of the first channel 230A are co-operatively configured such that displacement of the second panel 200, along an axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis 200X of the second panel 200 (or, for that matter, to the longitudinal axis 100X of the first panel 100), in a direction away from the first panel 100, is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the arm 318 of the second prong 317B, the channel defining surface 130S of the second channel 130B, the second vertical outermost surface 112 of the first panel 100, and the first vertical outermost surface 210 of the second panel 200 are co-operatively configured such that displacement of the first panel 100, along an axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis 100X of the first panel 100 (or, for that matter, to the longitudinal axis 200X of the second panel 200), in a direction towards the second panel 200, is opposed (e.g. prevented). In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the second vertical outermost surface 112 of the first panel 100 and the first vertical outermost surface 210 of the second panel 200 are co-operatively configured such that displacement of the second panel 200, along an axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis 200X of the second panel 200 (or, for that matter, to the longitudinal axis 100X of the first panel 100), in a direction towards the first panel 100, is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the barb 319 of the first prong 317A, the retaining surface 144 of the channel defining surface 130S of the first channel 130A, the barb 319 of the second prong 317B, the retaining surface 144 of the channel defining surface 130S of the second channel 130B, the rear facing surface 104, and the panel facing surface 306 of the connector 302 are co-operatively configured such that angular displacement (e.g. rotational displacement) of the first panel 100, about an axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis 100X of the first panel 100 (or for that matter, the longitudinal axis 200X of the second panel 200), is opposed (e.g. prevented). In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the barb 329 of the first prong 327A, the retaining surface 244 of the channel defining surface 230S of the channel 230A, the rear facing surface 204, and the panel facing surface 306 of the connector 302 are co-operatively configured such that angular displacement (e.g. rotational displacement) of the second panel 200, about an axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis 200X of the second panel 200 (or for that matter, the longitudinal axis 100X of the first panel 100), is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the barb 319 of the first prong 317A, the retaining surface 144 of the channel defining surface 130S of the first channel 130A, the barb 319 of the second prong 317B, the retaining surface 144 of the channel defining surface 130S of the second channel 130B, the rear facing surface 104, the panel facing surface 306 of the connector 302, the second vertical outermost surface 112 of the first panel 100, and the first vertical outermost surface 210 of the second panel 200 are co-operatively configured such that angular displacement (e.g. rotational displacement) of the first panel 100, about an axis that is parallel to the lateral axis 101X of the first panel 100 (or for that matter, the lateral axis 201X of the second panel 200), is opposed (e.g. prevented). In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the barb 329 of the first prong 327A, the retaining surface 244 of the channel defining surface 230S of the channel 230A, the rear facing surface 204, the panel facing surface 306 of the connector 302, the second vertical outermost surface 112 of the first panel 100, and the first vertical outermost surface 210 of the second panel 200 are co-operatively configured such that angular displacement (e.g. rotational displacement) of the second panel 200, about an axis that is parallel to the lateral axis 201X of the second panel 200 (or for that matter, the lateral axis 101X of the first panel 100), is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the arm 318 of the first prong 317A, the channel defining surface 130S of the first channel 130A, the arm 318 of the second prong 317B, the channel defining surface 130S of the second channel 130B, the second vertical outermost surface 112 of the first panel 100, and the first vertical outermost surface 210 of the second panel 200 are co-operatively configured such that angular displacement (e.g. rotational displacement) of the first panel 100, about an axis that is parallel to a normal axis 102X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 100X and to the lateral axis 101X of the first panel 100 (or for that matter, to a normal axis 202X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 200X and the lateral axis 201X of the second panel 200), is opposed (e.g. prevented). In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the arm 328 of the first prong 327A, the channel defining surface 230S of the first channel 230A, the second vertical outermost surface 112 of the first panel 100, and the first vertical outermost surface 210 of the second panel 200 are co-operatively configured such that angular displacement (e.g. rotational displacement) of the second panel 200, about an axis that is parallel to a normal axis 202X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 200X and to the lateral axis 201X of the second panel 200 (or for that matter, to a normal axis 202X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 100X and the lateral axis 101X of the first panel 100), is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, the barb 319 of the first prong 317A, the retaining surface 144 of the channel defining surface 130S of the first channel 130A, the barb 319 of the second prong 317B, the retaining surface 144 of the channel defining surface 130S of the second channel 130B, the barb 329 of the first prong 327A, and the retaining surface 244 of the channel defining surface 230S of the first channel 230A are co-operatively configured such that displacement of the joiner 300, relative to the first panel 100 and the second panel 200, along an axis that is parallel to a normal axis 102X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 100X and to the lateral axis 101X of the first panel 100 (or, for that matter, to a normal axis 202X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 200X and to the lateral axis 201X of the second panel 200), in a direction away from the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 (e.g. rearward displacement of the joiner 300, relative to the first and second panels 100, 200, or rearward retraction of the joiner 300 from the first and second panels 100, 200, is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the channels 130 of the first panel 100, independently, the channel-defining surface 130S of the channel 130 defines a bottom surface 142. In some embodiments, for example, the bottom surface 142 is disposed forwardly of the rear facing surface 104 and the retaining surface 144 is disposed between the bottom surface 142 and the rear facing surface 104. In some embodiments, for example, a normal axis defined by the bottom surface 142 is parallel to a normal axis defined by the rear facing surface 104. In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, for each one of the prongs 317 of the joiner 300, independently, the prong 317 is abutting against the bottom surface 142 of the respective channel 130 in which the prong 317 is received. As depicted in FIG. 15, in some embodiments, for example, the first prong 317A, the bottom surface 142 of the channel defining surface 130S of the first channel 130A, the second prong 317B, and the bottom surface 142 of the channel defining surface 130S of the second channel 130B are co-operatively configured such that bending of the first panel 100, about an axis that is parallel to the lateral axis 101X of the first panel 100, which, in some embodiments, for example, is urged by expansion and contraction of the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 caused by temperature or by the wind, is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the channels 230 of the second panel 200, independently, the channel-defining surface 230S of the channel 230 defines a bottom surface 242. In some embodiments, for example, the bottom surface 242 is disposed forwardly of the rear facing surface 204 and the retaining surface 244 is disposed between the bottom surface 242 and the rear facing surface 204. In some embodiments, for example, a normal axis defined by the bottom surface 242 is parallel to a normal axis defined by the rear facing surface 104. In some embodiments, for example, while the joined configuration 14 is established, for each one of the prongs 327 of the joiner 300, independently, the prong 327 is abutting against the bottom surface 242 of the respective channel 230 in which the prong 327 is received. As depicted in FIG. 15, in some embodiments, for example, the first prong 327A and the bottom surface 242 of the channel defining surface 230S of the first channel 230A are co-operatively configured such that bending of the second panel 200, about an axis that is parallel to the lateral axis 201X of the second panel 200, which, in some embodiments, for example, is urged by expansion and contraction of the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 caused by temperature or by the wind, is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in FIG. 15 to FIG. 17 and FIG. 19, the first panel receptacle configuration 122 and the first panel connection counterpart 150 are defined at a first end 103 (e.g. a right end) of the first panel 100, and the second panel receptacle configuration 222 and the second panel connection counterpart 250 are defined at a first end 205 (e.g. a left end) of the second panel 200. In some embodiments, for example, the first panel 100 includes a second panel receptacle configuration 162 and a second panel connection counterpart 170, which are substantially similar to the second panel receptacle configuration 222 and the second panel connection counterpart 250 of the second panel 200, at a second end 105 of the first panel 100 that is opposite the first end 103, such that additional panels, substantially similar to the panels 100, 200 depicted in FIG. 15 to FIG. 17 and FIG. 19, can be connected to the first panel 100 with additional joiners 300 via snap fit engagement, as described above, and the second panel 200 includes a first panel receptacle configuration 262 and a first panel connection counterpart 270, which are substantially similar to the first panel receptacle configuration 122 and the first panel connection counterpart 150, at a second end 203 (e.g. a right end) of the second panel 200 that is opposite the first end 205, such that additional panels, substantially similar to the panels 100, 200 depicted in FIG. 15 to FIG. 17 and FIG. 19, can be connected to the second panel 200 with additional joiners 300 via snap fit engagement, as described above, and that the joined configuration 14 can be defined by co-operative configuration of the joiner 300, the second panel receptacle configuration 162, the second panel connection counterpart 170, the first panel receptacle configuration 262 and the first panel connection counterpart 270, in a manner substantially similar to the manner as described above with respect to the joiner 300, first panel receptacle configuration 122, the first panel connection counterpart 150, the second panel receptacle configuration 222, and the second panel connection counterpart 250. In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in FIG. 16 and FIG. 17, the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 are substantially identical.

Referring to FIG. 20 to FIG. 25, in some embodiments, for example, the assembled configuration or panel assembly 22, established from the series of “N” panels, is defined by at least one pair of adjacent panels, and, for each one of the at least one pair of adjacent panels, independently, the pair of adjacent panels is defined by a first panel 600 and a second panel 700. For each one of the at least one pair of adjacent panels, independently, the adjacent panels are joined, by co-operative configuration of a first connection counterpart 615 of the first panel 600 and a second connection counterpart 718 of the second panel 700. In some embodiments, for example, the series of “N” panels includes (and, in some embodiments, for example, is defined by) a plurality of pairs of adjacent panels 600, 700, such that the at least one pair of adjacent panels 600, 700 is defined by a plurality of pairs of adjacent panels 600, 700.

The first panel 600 includes a front-facing surface 602 and a rear facing surface 604, an upper horizontal outermost surface 606, a lower horizontal outermost surface 608, a first vertical outermost surface 610, and a second vertical outermost surface 612. In some embodiments, for example, the length of the panel 600 is measured along an axis that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 600X of the panel 600. In some embodiments, for example, the length is defined by a minimum spacing distance between the first vertical outermost surface 610 and the second vertical outermost surface 612 (e.g. the length of the panel 600), such that the length has a value of at least three (3) inches, such as, for example, at least six (6) inches, such as, for example, at least nine (9) inches. In some embodiments, for example, the height of the panel 600 is measured along an axis that is parallel to a lateral axis 601X of the panel 600, which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 600X of the panel 600. In some embodiments, for example, the height is defined by a minimum spacing distance between the upper horizontal outermost surface 606 and the lower horizontal outermost surface 608 (e.g. the height of the panel 600) has a value of at least three (3) inches, for example, at least six (6) inches, for example, at least seven (7) inches. As depicted, in some embodiments, for example, the second panel 700 includes a front-facing surface and a rear facing surface 704, an upper horizontal outermost surface 706, a lower horizontal outermost surface 708, a first vertical outermost surface 710, and a second vertical outermost surface 712. As depicted, while the panel assembly 22 is defined, the second vertical outermost surface 612 of the first panel 600 and the first vertical outermost surface 710 of the second panel are disposed in abutting relationship. In some embodiments, for example, the length of the panel 700 is measured along an axis that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 700X of the panel 700. In some embodiments, for example, the length is defined by a minimum spacing distance between the first vertical outermost surface 710 and the second vertical outermost surface 712 (e.g. the length of the panel 700), and the length has a value of at least three (3) inches, for example, at least six (6) inches, for example, at least nine (9) inches. In some embodiments, for example, the height of the panel 700 is measured along an axis that is parallel to a lateral axis 701X of the panel 700, which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 700X of the panel 700. In some embodiments, for example, the height is defined by a minimum spacing distance between the upper horizontal outermost surface 706 and the lower horizontal outermost surface 708, and the height of the panel 700 has a value of at least three (3) inches, for example, at least six (6) inches, for example, at least seven (7) inches.

The first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured for disposition in an unassembled configuration, wherein, in the unassembled configuration, there is an absence of joinder, of the first panel 600 to the second panel 700, by the first connection counterpart 615 and the second connection counterpart 718, and a joined configuration, wherein, in the joined configuration, the first panel 600 is joined to the second panel 700 by the first connection counterpart 615 and the second connection counterpart 718 to define the panel assembly 22. In some embodiments, for example, the joining of the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are effectuated by joining the first connection counterpart 615 and the second connection counterpart 718. In some embodiments, for example, the joining of the first and second panels 600, 700 is effectuated by sliding the first connection counterpart 616 relative to the second connection counterpart 718, along a sliding axis, to join the first connection counterpart 616 and the second connection counterpart 718, as described in greater detail herein. In some embodiments, for example, the sliding axis is parallel to a lateral axis 601X of the panel 600 or a lateral axis 701X of the panel 700. In some embodiments, for example, the sliding axis is a linear axis

The first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that, while the panel assembly 22 is defined, the second panel 700 is emplaced for receiving application of a compressive force (such as, for example, a compressive force in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 600X of the first panel 600 (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 700X of the second panel 700)) being transmitted by the first panel 600, and is also emplaced for receiving application of a tensile force (such as, for example, a tensile force in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 600X of the first panel 600 (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 700X of the second panel 700)) being transmitted by the first panel 600. The first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that, while the panel assembly 22 is defined, the first panel 600 is emplaced for receiving application of a compressive force (such as, for example, a compressive force in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 600X of the first panel 600 (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 700X of the second panel 700)) being transmitted by the second panel 700, and is also emplaced for receiving application of a tensile force (such as, for example, a tensile force in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 600X of the first panel 600 (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 700X of the second panel 700)) being transmitted by the second panel 700. In some embodiments, for example, first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that, while the panel assembly 22 is defined, the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are disposed in force transfer communication, such that a tensile force (such as, for example, a tensile force in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 600X of the first panel (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 700X of the second panel 700)) is transmissible from the first panel 600 to the second panel 700 and such that a compressive force (such as, for example, a tensile force in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 600X of the first panel (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 700X of the second panel 700)) is transmissible from the first panel 600 to the second panel 700, and such that a tensile force is transmissible from the second panel 700 to the first panel 600 and such that a compressive force is transmissible from the second panel 700 to the first panel 600.

The first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that, while the panel assembly 22 is defined (and, in some embodiments, for example, the panel assembly 22 is also fastened to the structure 900), and the second panel 700 is receiving application of a compressive force (such as, for example, a compressive force in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 600X of the first panel 600 (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 700X of the second panel 700)) being transmitted by the first panel 600, the second panel 700 is disposed in compression. The first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that, while the panel assembly 22 is defined (and, in some embodiments, for example, the panel assembly 22 is also fastened to the structure 900), and the second panel 700 is receiving application of a tensile force (such as, for example, a tensile force in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 600X of the first panel 600 (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 700X of the second panel 700)) being transmitted by the first panel 600, the second panel 700 is disposed in tension. The first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that, while the panel assembly 22 is defined (and, in some embodiments, for example, the panel assembly 22 is also fastened to the structure 900), and the first panel 600 is receiving application of a compressive force (such as, for example, a compressive force in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 600X of the first panel 600 (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 700X of the second panel 700)) being transmitted by the second panel 700, the first panel 600 is disposed in compression. The first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that, while the panel assembly 22 is defined (and, in some embodiments, for example, the panel assembly 22 is also fastened to the structure 900), and the first panel 600 is receiving application of a tensile force (such as, for example, a tensile force in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 600X of the first panel 600 (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 700X of the second panel 700)) being transmitted by the second panel 700, the first panel 600 is disposed in tension.

In some embodiments, for example, the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that, while the joined panel assembly 22 is defined (and, in some of these embodiments, for example, the panel assembly 22 is also fastened to the structure 900), and a tensile force is applied to the first panel 600 (such as, for example, a tensile force in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 600X of the first panel 600 (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 700X of the second panel 700)) to the second panel 700, the applied tensile force is transmitted to the second panel 700, by the first connection counterpart 615 and the second connection counterpart 718, with effect that there is an absence of displacement of the first panel 600 relative to the second panel 700. Also, the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that, while the panel assembly 22 is defined (and, in some of these embodiments, for example, the panel assembly 22 is also fastened to the structure 900), and a tensile force is applied to the second panel 700 (such as, for example, a tensile force in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 600X of the first panel 600 (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 700X of the second panel 700)) to the first panel 600, the applied tensile force is transmitted to the first panel 600, by the first connection counterpart 615 and the second connection counterpart 718, with effect that there is an absence of displacement of the second panel 700 relative to the first panel 600.

In some embodiments, for example, in the panel assembly 22, the first and second panels 600, 700 are emplaced in abutting engagement, for example, along a vertical seam (which, in some embodiments, for example, is defined by the second vertical outermost surface 612 of the first panel 600 and a corresponding surface 790 of the second panel 700, or by the first vertical outermost surface 710 of the second panel 700 and a vertical surface 690 of the first panel 600, as described in greater detail herein), while the panels 600, 700 are mounted to the building structure 900, and while panel assembly 22 is defined. In this respect, the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that, while the panel assembly 22 is defined such that the first and second panels 600, 700 are emplaced in abutting engagement (and, in some of these embodiments, for example, the panel assembly 22 is also fastened to the structure 900), and a tensile force is applied to the first panel 600 (such as, for example, a tensile force in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 600X of the first panel (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 700X of the second panel 700)), the applied tensile force is transmitted to the second panel 700, by the first connection counterpart 615 and the second connection counterpart 718, with effect that there is an absence of sufficient relative displacement between the first panel 600 and the second panel 700, for effecting defeating of the abutting engagement. Also, the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that, while the panel assembly 22 is defined such that the first and second panels 600, 700 are emplaced in abutting engagement (and, in some of these embodiments, for example, the panel assembly 22 is also fastened to the structure 900), and a tensile force is applied to the second panel 700 (such as, for example, a tensile force in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 600X of the first panel 600 (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 700X of the second panel 700)), the applied tensile force is transmitted to the first panel 600, by the first connection counterpart 615 and the second connection counterpart 718, with effect that there is an absence of sufficient relative displacement between the first panel 600 and the second panel 700, for effecting defeating of the abutting engagement.

In some embodiments, for example, the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that, while the panel assembly 22 is defined (and, in some of these embodiments, for example, the panel assembly 22 is also fastened to the structure 900), and the first panel 600 is applying a compressive force (such as, for example, a compressive force in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 600X of the first panel 600 (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 700X of the second panel 700)) to the second panel 700, there is an absence of application of compressive force to the second panel 700, by the first panel 600, that is sufficient to effect buckling of the second panel 700. Also, the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that, while the panel assembly 22 is defined (and, in some of these embodiments, for example, the panel assembly 22 is also fastened to the structure 900), and the second panel 700 is applying a compressive force (such as, for example, a compressive force in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 600X of the first panel 600 (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 700X of the second panel 700)) to the first panel 600, there is an absence of application of compressive force to the first panel 600, by the second panel 700, that is sufficient to effect buckling of the first panel 600.

The first connection counterpart 615 includes at least one first panel defined protrusion 680, such that a first panel defined protrusion configuration 682 is defined by the at least one first panel defined protrusion 680 that is respective to the first panel 600, and the second connection counterpart 718 includes at least one second panel defined protrusion 780, such that a second panel defined protrusion configuration 782 is defined by the at least one second panel defined protrusion 780 that is respective to the second panel 700. As depicted, in some embodiments, for example, each one of the at least one first panel defined protrusion 680, independently, extends transversely relative to the rear facing surface 604, and each one of the at least one second panel defined protrusion 780, independently, extends transversely relative to the front facing surface 702.

In some embodiments, for example, the first panel 600 includes at least one respective receptacle 620, such that a first panel receptacle configuration 622 is defined by the at least one receptacle 620 that is respective to the first panel 600. In some of these embodiments, for example, the first panel receptacle configuration 622 is defined by a single receptacle 620. In some of these embodiments, for example, the first panel receptacle configuration 622 is defined by more than one receptacle 620. Also, the second panel 700 includes at least one respective receptacle 720, such that a second panel receptacle configuration 722 is defined by the at least one receptacle 720 that is respective to the second panel 700. In some of these embodiments, for example, the second panel receptacle configuration 722 is defined by a single receptacle 720. In some of these embodiments, for example, the second panel receptacle configuration 722 is defined by more than one receptacle 720. The first panel defined protrusion configuration 682 is configured for insertion into the second panel receptacle configuration 722. Also, the second panel defined protrusion configuration 782 is configured for insertion into the first panel receptacle configuration 622. The first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that the panel assembly 22 is defined in response to at least: (i) insertion of the first panel defined protrusion configuration 682 into the second panel receptacle configuration 722, and (ii) insertion of the second panel defined protrusion configuration 782 into the first panel receptacle configuration 622. In this respect, transitioning from the unassembled configuration to the joined configuration to define the panel assembly 22 is effected by at least: (i) insertion of the first panel defined protrusion configuration 682 into the second panel receptacle configuration 722, and (ii) insertion of the second panel defined protrusion configuration 782 into the first panel receptacle configuration 622.

In some embodiments, for example, the insertion of the first panel defined protrusion configuration 682 into the second panel receptacle configuration 722, is independent of the insertion of the second panel defined protrusion configuration 782 into the first panel receptacle configuration 622. In some embodiments, for example, the insertion of the first panel defined protrusion configuration 682 into the second panel receptacle configuration 722 occurs before the insertion of the second panel defined protrusion configuration 782 into the first panel receptacle configuration 622. In some embodiments, for example, the insertion of the first panel defined protrusion configuration 682 into the second panel receptacle configuration 722 occurs after the insertion of the second panel defined protrusion configuration 782 into the first panel receptacle configuration 622. In some embodiments, for example, the insertion of the first panel defined protrusion configuration 682 into the second panel receptacle configuration 722 is contemporaneous with the insertion of the second panel defined protrusion configuration 782 into the second panel receptacle configuration 722.

In some embodiments, for example, the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that, while the panel assembly 22 is defined, the first panel defined protrusion configuration 682 is emplaced within the second panel receptacle configuration 722, and the second panel defined protrusion configuration 782 is emplaced within the first panel receptacle configuration 622.

In some embodiments, each one of the at least one protrusion 680, of the protrusion configuration 680682, is configured for insertion within a respective one of the at least one receptacle 720 of the second panel receptacle configuration 722, and each one of the at least one protrusion 780, of the protrusion configuration 782, is configured for insertion within a respective one of the at least one receptacle 620 of the first panel receptacle configuration 622.

In some embodiments, for example, transitioning, from the unassembled configuration to the joined configuration to define the panel assembly 22, is effected by at least a plurality of first panel defined protrusion insertions and a plurality of second panel defined protrusion insertions, such that the plurality of first panel defined protrusion insertions defines the insertion of the first panel defined protrusion configuration 682 into the second panel receptacle configuration 722, and the plurality of second panel defined protrusion insertions defines the insertion of the second panel defined protrusion configuration 782 into the first panel receptacle configuration 622. Each one of the first panel defined protrusion insertions, independently, is an insertion of a one of the at least one protrusion 680 into a one of the at least one receptacle 720 which is respective to the one of the at least on protrusion 680, and each one of the second panel defined protrusion insertions, independently, is an insertion of a one of the at least one protrusion 780 into a one of the at least one receptacle 620 which is respective to the one of the at least one protrusion 780.

In some embodiments, for example, in the panel assembly 22, each one of the at least one protrusion 680, of the protrusion configuration 682, is emplaced within a respective one of the at least one receptacle 720 of the second panel receptacle configuration 722, and each one of the at least one protrusion 780, of the protrusion configuration 782, is emplaced within a respective one of the at least one receptacle 620 of the first panel receptacle configuration 622.

In some embodiments, for example, the defeating of the panel assembly 22 includes at least one of: (i) retraction of the first panel defined protrusion configuration 682 from the second panel receptacle configuration 722, and (ii) retraction of the second panel defined protrusion configuration 782 from the first panel receptacle configuration 622.

In those embodiments where the first panel 600 includes a first panel receptacle configuration 622 defined by a single receptacle 620 and the second panel 700 includes a single panel receptacle configuration 722 defined by single receptacle 720, in some of these embodiments, for example, the first panel defined protrusion configuration 682 is defined by a single protrusion 680, and the second panel defined protrusion configuration 782 is defined by a single protrusion 780.

In some embodiments, for example, for the first panel 600, each one of the at least one receptacle 620, independently, is defined by a respective channel 630, such that the first panel receptacle configuration 622 is a first panel channel configuration 632 defined by at least one channel 630, and, for the second panel 700, each one of the at least one receptacle 720, independently, is defined by a respective channel 730, such that the second panel receptacle configuration 722 is a second panel channel configuration 732 defined by at least one channel 730. Each one of the at least one channel 630, independently, is defined by a channel-defining surface 630S, and, in some embodiments, for example, is recessed from a planar surface configuration 602A of the front-facing surface 602, and each one of the at least one channel 730, independently, is defined by a channel-defining surface 730S, and, in some embodiments, for example, is recessed from a planar surface configuration 704A of the rear-facing surface 704. In some embodiments, for example, the rear facing surface 604 defines a planar surface configuration 604A, which, in some embodiments, for example, is parallel to the planar surface configuration 602A of the front-facing surface 602. In some embodiments, for example, the front facing surface 700 defines a planar surface configuration 702A, which, in some embodiments, for example, is parallel to the planar surface configuration 704A of the rear-facing surface 704. The rear-facing surface 604, of the first panel 600, defines an outermost planar surface configuration 604B (such that the rear-facing surface 604 includes an outermost planar surface configuration 604B), and the rear-facing surface 704, of the first panel 700, defines an outermost planar surface configuration 704B (such that the rear-facing surface 704 includes an outermost planar surface configuration 704B).

In some embodiments, for example, the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 682 is configured for insertion into the second panel channel configuration 732, such that the disposition, of the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 682 within the second panel channel configuration 732, is established in response to the insertion of the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 682 into the second panel channel configuration 732.

In some embodiments, for example, the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 782 is configured for insertion into the first panel channel configuration 632, such that the disposition, of the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 782 within the first panel channel configuration 632, is established in response to the insertion of the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 782 into the first panel channel configuration 632.

Each one of the at least one channel 630, independently, defines a respective longitudinal axis 630X, and each one of the at least one channel 730, independently, defines a respective longitudinal axis 730X. In those embodiments where each one of the first and second panels, independently, is an extrudate, in some of these embodiments, for example, for each one of the at least one channel 630 of the first panel 600, the longitudinal axis 630X is perpendicular relative to the axis of extrusion of the first panel 600 (i.e. the longitudinal axis 600X), and for each one of the at least one channel 730 of the second panel 700, the longitudinal axis 730X is perpendicular relative to the axis of extrusion of the second panel 700 (i.e. the longitudinal axis 700X). In some embodiments, for example, the channel 630 has a uniform longitudinal cross-section along its length (I.e. along the longitudinal axis 630X, extending from the first end, of the channel, to the second end of the channel), and the channel 730 has a uniform longitudinal cross-section along its length (I.e. along the longitudinal axis 730X, extending from the first end, of the channel 730, to the second end of the channel 730X).

Correspondingly, each one of the at least one first panel defined protrusion 680, independently, is a longitudinally-extending protrusion 680 that extends along its longitudinal axis 680X (which is perpendicular relative to the longitudinal axis 600X of the panel 600), and each one of the at least one second panel defined protrusion 780, independently, is a longitudinally-extending protrusion 780 that extends along its longitudinal axis 780X (which is perpendicular relative to the longitudinal axis 700X of the panel 700). In some embodiments, for example, the longitudinally-extending protrusion 680 has a uniform longitudinal cross-section along its length (I.e. along the longitudinal axis 680X, extending from the first end, of the protrusion 680, to the second end of the protrusion 680), and the longitudinally-extending protrusion 780 has a uniform longitudinal cross-section along its length (I.e. along the longitudinal axis 780X, extending from the first end, of the protrusion 780, to the second end of the protrusion 780).

In some embodiments, for example, the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that, for each one of the at least one channel 630, independently, while a respective protrusion 780, of the second panel defined protrusion configuration 782 of the second connection counterpart 718, is longitudinally aligned with the channel 630, the respective protrusion 780 is insertable into the channel 630. In some embodiments, for example, the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that, for each one of the at least one channel 630, independently, the respective protrusion 780 is insertable into the channel 630 while the respective protrusion 780 is longitudinally aligned with the channel 630, only. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the at least one channel 630, independently, the insertion of the respective protrusion 780 into the channel 630 is effected by relative displacement between the respective protrusion 780 and the panel 600. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that, for each one of the at least one channel 630, independently, while the respective protrusion 780 is longitudinally aligned with the channel 630, in response to application of an insertion force, to the respective protrusion 780, in a direction towards, and in alignment with the longitudinal axis 630X of the channel 630, the respective protrusion 780 becomes inserted within the channel 630. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the at least one channel 630, the insertion of the respective protrusion 780, into the channel 630, includes a slidable insertion (see the arrow depicted in FIG. 22 and FIG. 23).

In some embodiments, for example, the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that, for each one of the at least one channel 630, independently, while the respective protrusion 780 is emplaced within the channel 630, the respective protrusion 780 is retractable from the channel 630. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that, for each one of the at least one channel 630, independently, in response to application of a retraction force, to the respective protrusion 780, in a direction away from, and in alignment with the longitudinal axis 630X of, the channel 630, the respective protrusion 780 becomes retracted from the channel 630. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the at least one channel 630, independently, the retraction of the respective protrusion 780 from the channel 630 is effected by relative displacement between the respective protrusion 780 and the panel 600. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the at least one channel 630, the retraction of the respective protrusion 780, from the channel 630, includes a slidable retraction.

In some embodiments, for example, each one of the at least one channel 630, independently, includes an end 630E at which is defined a communicator 631, and the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that, for each one of the at least one channel 630, the respective protrusion 780 is insertable into, and, in some embodiments, retractable from, the channel 630 via the communicator 631. In some of these embodiments, for example, the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that, for each one of the at least one channel 630, the respective protrusion 780 is insertable into, and, in some embodiments, retractable from, the channel 630 via the communicator 631, only. In some embodiments, for example, each one of the at least one channel 630, independently, includes an end 630F that is opposite to the end 630E, at which is defined a communicator 6311 substantially similar to the communicator 631, and the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that, for each one of the at least one channel 630, the respective protrusion 780 is insertable into, and, in some embodiments, retractable from, the channel 630 via the communicator 6311.

In some embodiments, for example, the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that, for each one of the at least one channel 730, independently, while a respective protrusion 680, of the first panel defined protrusion configuration 682 of the first connection counterpart 615, is longitudinally aligned with the channel 730, the respective protrusion 680 is insertable into the channel 730. In some embodiments, for example, the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that, for each one of the at least one channel 730, independently, the respective protrusion 680 is insertable into the channel 730 while the respective protrusion 680 is longitudinally aligned with the channel 730, only. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the at least one channel 730, independently, the insertion of the respective protrusion 680 into the channel 730 is effected by relative displacement between the respective protrusion 680 and the panel 700. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that, for each one of the at least one channel 730, independently, while the respective protrusion 680 is longitudinally aligned with the channel 730, in response to application of an insertion force, to the respective protrusion 680, in a direction towards, and in alignment with the longitudinal axis 730X of the channel 730, the respective protrusion 680 becomes inserted within the channel 730. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the at least one channel 730, the insertion of the respective protrusion 680, into the channel 730, includes a slidable insertion (see the arrow depicted in FIG. 22 and FIG. 23).

In some embodiments, for example, the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that, for each one of the at least one channel 730, independently, while the respective protrusion 680 is emplaced within the channel 730, the respective protrusion 680 is retractable from, the channel 730. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that, for each one of the at least one channel 730, independently, in response to application of a retraction force, to the respective protrusion 680, in a direction away from, and in alignment with the longitudinal axis 730X of the channel 730, the respective protrusion 680 becomes retracted from the channel 730. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the at least one channel 730, independently, the retraction of the respective protrusion 680 from the channel 730 is effected by relative displacement between the respective protrusion 680 and the panel 600. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the at least one channel 730, the retraction of the respective protrusion 680, from the channel 730, includes a slidable retraction.

In some embodiments, for example, each one of the at least one channel 730, independently, includes an end 730E at which is defined a communicator 731, and the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that, for each one of the at least one channel 730, independently, the protrusion 680 is insertable into, and, in some embodiments, retractable from, the channel 730 via the communicator 731. In some of these embodiments, for example, the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that, for each one of the at least one channel 730, independently, the respective protrusion 680 is insertable into, and, in some embodiments, retractable from, the channel 730 via the communicator 731, only. In some embodiments, for example, each one of the at least one channel 730, independently, includes an end 730F that is opposite to the end 730E, at which is defined a communicator 7311 substantially similar to the communicator 731, and the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that, for each one of the at least one channel 730, the respective protrusion 780 is insertable into, and, in some embodiments, retractable from, the channel 730 via the communicator 7311. Referring to FIG. 20 to FIG. 25, in some embodiments, for example, the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that, while the panel assembly 22 is defined (e.g. the first panel defined protrusion configuration 682, of the first connection counterpart 615, is emplaced within the second panel channel configuration 732, of the second connection counterpart 718, and the second panel defined protrusion configuration 782, of the second connection counterpart 718, is emplaced within the first panel channel configuration 632, of the first connection counterpart 615), the first connection counterpart 615 and the second connection counterpart 718 are connected via a form-fit connection, such that the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are connected via a form-fit connection. In some embodiments, for example, while the panel assembly 22 is defined, the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are disposed in a form fit relationship. In some embodiments, for example, while the panel assembly 22 is defined, the first connection counterpart 615 and the second connection counterpart 718 are disposed in a form fit relationship.

In some embodiments, for example, the form fit relationship, between the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 is establishable in response to a slidable insertion of the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 682 into the second panel channel configuration 732, only. In some embodiments, for example, the form fit relationship, between the first panel 600 and the second panel 700, is establishable in response to a slidable insertion of the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 782 into the first panel channel configuration 632, only.

In some embodiments, for example, the form fit relationship, between the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 is defeatable in response to a slidable retraction of the first panel co-operating protrusion configuration 682 from the second panel channel configuration 732, only. In some embodiments, for example, the form fit relationship, between the first panel 600 and the second panel 700, is defeatable in response to a slidable retraction of the second panel co-operating protrusion configuration 782 from the first panel channel configuration 632, only.

In some embodiments, for example, the first connection counterpart 616 and the second connection counterpart 718 are co-operatively configured such that, while the panel assembly 22 is defined: angular displacement of the first panel 600, relative to the second panel 700, about a displacement axis that is parallel to the sliding axis (e.g. parallel to the lateral axis 601X or to the lateral axis 701X), wherein the angular displacement is sufficient to defeat the form fit relationship, is prevented; and angular displacement of the second panel 700, relative to the first panel 600, about a displacement axis that is parallel to the sliding axis, wherein the angular displacement is sufficient to defeat the form fit relationship, is prevented.

In some embodiments, for example, the first connection counterpart 616 and the second connection counterpart 718 are co-operatively configured such that: for each one of the first panel-defined protrusions 680, independently, in response to insertion of the first panel-defined protrusion 680 into the respective second panel-defined channel 730, a form fit relationship is established between the first panel-defined protrusion 680 and the respective second panel-defined channel 730; and, for each one of the second panel-defined protrusions 780, independently, in response to insertion of the second panel-defined protrusion 780 into the respective first panel-defined channel 630, a form fit relationship is established between the second panel-defined protrusion 780 and the respective first panel-defined channel 630; with effect that the form fit relationship, between the first connection counterpart 616 and the second connection counterpart 718, is established

In some embodiments, for example, the form-fit connection, between the first panel 600 and the second panel 700, is with effect that displacement of the first panel 600, relative to the second panel 700, along an axis that is parallel to a normal axis 602X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 600X and to the lateral axis 601X of the first panel 600 (or, for that matter, to a normal axis 702X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 700X and to the lateral axis 701X of the second panel 700), wherein, in some embodiments, for example, the displacement is sufficient to defeat the form fit relationship, is opposed (e.g. prevented), and displacement of the second panel 700, relative to the first panel 600, along an axis that is parallel to a normal axis 702X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 700X and to the lateral axis 701X of the second panel 700 (or, for that matter, to a normal axis 602X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 600X and to the lateral axis 601X of the first panel 600), wherein, in some embodiments, for example, the displacement is sufficient to defeat the form fit relationship, is opposed (e.g. prevented). In some embodiments, for example, the normal axis 602X is parallel to a normal axis defined by a planar surface portion 602A of the front-facing surface 602 of the first panel 600. In some embodiments, for example, the normal axis 602X is parallel to a normal axis defined by a planar surface portion 604A of the rear-facing surface 604 of the first panel 600. In some embodiments, for example, the normal axis 702X is parallel to a normal axis defined by a planar surface portion 702A of the front-facing surface 702 of the second panel 700. In some embodiments, for example, the normal axis 702X is parallel to a normal axis defined by a planar surface portion 704A of the rear-facing surface 704 of the second panel 700.

In some embodiments, for example, the form-fit connection, between the first panel 600 and the second panel 700, is with effect that angular displacement (e.g. rotational displacement) of the first panel 600, relative to the second panel 700, about an axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis 600X of the first panel (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 700X of the second panel 700), wherein, in some embodiments, for example, the displacement is sufficient to defeat the form fit relationship, is opposed (e.g. prevented), and angular displacement (e.g. rotational displacement) of the second panel 700, relative to the first panel 600, about an axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis 700X of the second panel 700 (or, for that matter, a longitudinal axis 600X of the first panel 600), wherein, in some embodiments, for example, the displacement is sufficient to defeat the form fit relationship, is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, for example, the form-fit connection, between the first panel 600 and the second panel 700, is with effect that angular displacement (e.g. rotational displacement) of the first panel 600, relative to the second panel 700, about an axis that is parallel to the lateral axis 601X of the first panel 600 (or, for that matter, a lateral axis 701X of the second panel 700), wherein, in some embodiments, for example, the displacement is sufficient to defeat the form fit relationship, is opposed (e.g. prevented), and angular displacement (e.g. rotational displacement) of the second panel 700, relative to the first panel 600, about an axis that is parallel to the lateral axis 701X of the second panel 700 (or, for that matter, a lateral axis 601X of the first panel 600), wherein, in some embodiments, for example, the displacement is sufficient to defeat the form fit relationship, is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, for example, the form-fit connection, between the first panel 600 and the second panel 700, is with effect that angular displacement (e.g. rotational displacement) of the first panel 600, relative to the second panel 700, along an axis that is parallel to a normal axis 602X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 600X and to the lateral axis 601X of the first panel 600 (or, for that matter, to a normal axis 702X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 700X and to the lateral axis 701X of the second panel 700), wherein, in some embodiments, for example, the displacement is sufficient to defeat the form fit relationship, is opposed (e.g. prevented), and angular displacement (e.g. rotational displacement) of the second panel 700, relative to the first panel 600, along an axis that is parallel to a normal axis 702X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 700X and to the lateral axis 701X of the second panel 700 (or, for that matter, to a normal axis 602X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 600X and to the lateral axis 601X of the first panel 600), wherein, in some embodiments, for example, the displacement is sufficient to defeat the form fit relationship, is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, for example, the form-fit connection, between the first panel 600 and the second panel 700, is defined by a dovetail connection. In some of these embodiments, for example, the first panel channel configuration 632 is defined by a single channel 630 and the second panel channel configuration 732 is defined by a single channel 730, and the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that the dovetail connection becomes established in response to the emplacement of the second panel defined protrusion configuration 782, of the second connection counterpart 718, within the channel 630, of the first connection counterpart 615, and the emplacement of the first panel defined protrusion configuration 682, of the first connection counterpart 615, within the channel 730, of the second connection counterpart 718. In this respect, the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that while the second panel defined protrusion configuration 782, of the second connection counterpart 718, is emplaced within the channel 630, of the first connection counterpart 615, and the first panel defined protrusion configuration 682, of the first connection counterpart 615, is emplaced within the channel 730, of the second connection counterpart 718, the dovetail connection is defined.

In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the channel 630 of the first panel 600 is defined by a channel-defining surface 630S. In some embodiments, for example, the channel-defining surface 630S defines a bottom surface 642 and a retaining surface 644 that extends from the bottom surface 642 in a forward direction, for example, in a direction towards the front side of the panel 600. In some embodiments, for example, the retaining surface 644 is defined by an undercut surface. In some embodiments, for example, the bottom surface 642 is disposed forwardly of the rear facing surface 604, and, in some embodiments, for example, a normal axis defined by the bottom surface 642 is parallel to a normal axis defined by the rear facing surface 604 (e.g. by the planar surface portion 604A). In some embodiments, for example, the retaining surface 644 is disposed at an angle relative to the rear facing surface 604 (e.g. in a non-parallel relationship), and also disposed at an angle relative to the bottom surface 642 (e.g. in a non-parallel relationship). In some embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between a normal axis defined by the retaining surface 644 and a normal axis defined by the rear facing surface 604 (e.g. by the planar surface portion 604A) has a maximum value of at most 80 degrees, for example, at most 70 degrees, for example, at most 60 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between a normal axis defined by the retaining surface 644 and a normal axis defined by the rear facing surface 604 has a value of 67.5 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between a normal axis defined by the retaining surface 644 and a normal axis defined by the bottom surface 642 has a maximum value of at most 80 degrees, for example, at most 70 degrees, for example, at most 60 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between a normal axis defined by the retaining surface 644 and a normal axis defined by the bottom surface 642 has a value of 67.5 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the longitudinal cross-section of the channel 630, taken along the axis 630X, which, in some embodiments, for example, is an axis that is parallel to a lateral axis 601X of the panel 600 (e.g. along an axis that extends between the upper horizontal outermost surface 606 and the lower horizontal outermost surface 608) has a dovetail shape. That is, the width of the channel 630, measured along an axis that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 600X of the panel 600 (e.g. along an axis that extends between the first vertical outermost surface 610 and the second vertical outermost surface 612) increases as the channel 630 extends in a direction towards the rear facing surface 604. In some embodiments, for example, the width of the channel 630 has a minimum value of at least ⅛ inches, such as, for example, at least ¼ inches, such as, for example, at least ⅜ inches. In some embodiments, for example, the dovetail angle of the channel 630 has a minimum value of at least 10 degrees, for example, at least 20 degrees, for example, at least 30 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the dovetail angle of the channel 630 has a value of 22.5 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the first connection counterpart 615 includes a vertical surface 690, which extends from the front facing surface 602 to the channel-defining surface 630S. In some embodiments, for example, a normal axis defined by the vertical surface 690 and a normal axis defined by the second vertical outermost surface 612 are disposed in a parallel relationship. In some embodiments, for example, the vertical surface 690 and the second vertical outermost surface 612 are disposed in an offset relationship, with the vertical surface 690 disposed inwardly of the panel 600, relative to the second vertical outermost surface 612. In some embodiments, for example the retaining surface 644 is disposed between the vertical surface 690 and the second vertical outermost surface 612.

In some embodiments, for example, the channel 730 of the second panel 700 is defined by a channel-defining surface 730S. In some embodiments, for example, the channel-defining surface 730S defines a bottom surface 742 and a retaining surface 744 that extends from the bottom surface 742 in a rearward direction, for example, in a direction towards the rear side of the panel 700. In some embodiments, for example, the retaining surface 744 is defined by an undercut surface. In some embodiments, for example, the bottom surface 742 is disposed forwardly of the rear facing surface 704, and, in some embodiments, for example, a normal axis defined by the bottom surface 742 is parallel to a normal axis defined by the rear facing surface 704 (e.g. by the planar surface portion 704A). In some embodiments, for example, the retaining surface 744 is disposed at an angle relative to the rear facing surface 704 (e.g. in a non-parallel relationship), and also disposed at an angle relative to the bottom surface 742 (e.g. in a non-parallel relationship). In some embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between a normal axis defined by the retaining surface 744 and a normal axis defined by the rear facing surface 704 (e.g. by the planar surface portion 704A) has a maximum value of at most 80 degrees, for example, at most 70 degrees, for example, at most 60 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between a normal axis defined by the retaining surface 744 and a normal axis defined by the rear facing surface 704 has a value of 67.5 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between a normal axis defined by the retaining surface 744 and a normal axis defined by the bottom surface 742 has a maximum value of at most 80 degrees, for example, at most 70 degrees, for example, at most 60 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between a normal axis defined by the retaining surface 744 and a normal axis defined by the bottom surface 742 has a value of 67.5 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the longitudinal cross-section of the channel 730, taken along the axis 730X, which, in some embodiments, for example, is an axis that is parallel to a lateral axis of the panel 700 (e.g. along an axis that extends between the upper horizontal outermost surface 706 and the lower horizontal outermost surface 708) has a dovetail shape. That is, the width of the channel 730, measured along an axis that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 700X of the panel 700 (e.g. along an axis that extends between the second vertical outermost surface 720 and the second vertical outermost surface 722) increases as the channel 730 extends in a direction towards the front facing surface 702. In some embodiments, for example, the width of the channel 730 has a minimum value of at least ⅛ inches, for example, at least ¼ inches, for example, at least ⅜ inches. In some embodiments, for example, the dovetail angle of the channel 730 has a minimum value of at least 10 degrees, for example, at least 20 degrees, for example, at least 30 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the dovetail angle of the channel 730 has a value of 22.5 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the second connection counterpart 718 includes a vertical surface 790, which extends from the front rear surface 704 to the channel-defining surface 730S. In some embodiments, for example, a normal axis defined by the vertical surface 790 and a normal axis defined by the first vertical outermost surface 710 are disposed in a parallel relationship. In some embodiments, for example, the vertical surface 790 and the first vertical outermost surface 710 are disposed in an offset relationship, with the vertical surface 790 disposed inwardly of the panel 700, relative to the first vertical outermost surface 710. In some embodiments, for example the retaining surface 744 is disposed between the vertical surface 790 and the first vertical outermost surface 710.

In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the at least one first panel defined protrusions 680 of the first connection counterpart 615, the first panel defined protrusion 680 is defined by a protrusion-defining surface 680S. In some embodiments, for example, the protrusion defining surface 680S defines an end surface 613, a retaining surface 614, and a bottom surface 616. As depicted, in some embodiments, for example, the bottom surface 616 extends between the retaining surface 614 and the end surface 613. In some embodiments, for example, the end surface 613 is defined by a portion of the second vertical outermost surface 612. In some embodiments, for example, the end surface 613 and the vertical surface 690 are disposed in a parallel relationship. In some embodiments, for example, the bottom surface 616 is a forwardly facing surface, such that, in some embodiments, for example, the bottom surface 616 defines a portion of the front facing surface 602. In some embodiments, for example, the bottom surface 616 is defined between an outermost planar surface configuration 602B of the front facing surface 602 and the rear facing surface 604. In some embodiments, for example, a normal axis defined by the bottom surface 616 and a normal axis defined by the rear facing surface 604 are disposed in a parallel relationship. In some embodiments, for example, the end surface 613 and the bottom surface 616 are disposed in a non-parallel relationship, for example, in a perpendicular relationship. In some embodiments, for example, the retaining surface 614 is disposed at an angle, relative to the bottom surface 616 (e.g. in a non-parallel relationship), and also disposed at an angle relative to the front facing surface 602 and the rear facing surface 604 (e.g. in a non-parallel relationship). In some embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between a normal axis defined by the retaining surface 614 and a normal axis defined by the rear facing surface 604 (e.g. by the planar surface portion 604A) has a maximum value of at most 80 degrees, for example, at most 70 degrees, for example, at most 60 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between a normal axis defined by the retaining surface 614 and a normal axis defined by the rear facing surface 604 has a value of 67.5 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between a normal axis defined by the retaining surface 614 and a normal axis defined by the bottom surface 616 has a maximum value of at most 80 degrees, for example, at most 70 degrees, for example, at most 60 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between a normal axis defined by the retaining surface 614 and a normal axis defined by the bottom surface 616 has a value of 67.5 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the at least one first panel defined protrusions 680 of the first connection counterpart 616, the longitudinal cross-section of the protrusions 680, taken along the axis 680X, which, in some embodiments, for example, is an axis that is parallel to a lateral axis 601X of the panel 600 (e.g. along an axis that extends between the upper horizontal outermost surface 606 and the lower horizontal outermost surface 608) has a dovetail shape. That is, the width of the protrusions 680, measured along an axis that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 600X of the panel 600 (e.g. along an axis that extends between the first vertical outermost surface 610 and the second vertical outermost surface 612) increases as the protrusions 680 extends in a direction towards the front facing surface 602. In some embodiments, for example, the dovetail shape of the protrusion 608 has one “tail”, defined by the retaining surface 614 and the bottom surface 616. In some embodiments, for example, at least a portion of the retaining surface 614 of the protrusion-defining surface 680S is defined by the retaining surface 644 of the channel-defining surface 630S. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, at least a portion of the retaining surface 614 of the protrusion-defining surface 680S and at least a portion of the retaining surface 644 are defined by a common surface.

In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the at least one second panel defined protrusions 780 of the second connection counterpart 718, the second panel defined protrusion 780 is defined by a protrusion-defining surface 780S. In some embodiments, for example, the protrusion defining surface 780S defines an end surface 713, a retaining surface 714, and a bottom surface 716. As depicted, in some embodiments, for example, the bottom surface 716 extends between the retaining surface 714 and the end surface 713. In some embodiments, for example, the end surface 713 is defined by a portion of the first vertical outermost surface 710. In some embodiments, for example, the end surface 713 and the vertical surface 790 are disposed in a parallel relationship. In some embodiments, for example, the bottom surface 716 is a rearwardly facing surface, such that, in some embodiments, for example, the bottom surface 716 defines a portion of the rear facing surface 704. In some embodiments, for example, the bottom surface 716 is defined between an outermost planar surface configuration 704B of the rear facing surface 704 and the front facing surface 702. In some embodiments, for example, a normal axis defined by the bottom surface 716 and a normal axis defined by the front facing surface 702 are disposed in a parallel relationship. In some embodiments, for example, the end surface 713 and the bottom surface 716 are disposed in a non-parallel relationship, for example, in a perpendicular relationship. In some embodiments, for example, the retaining surface 714 is disposed at an angle, relative to the bottom surface 716 (e.g. in a non-parallel relationship), and also disposed at an angle relative to the front facing surface 702 and the rear facing surface 704 (e.g. in a non-parallel relationship). In some embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between a normal axis defined by the retaining surface 714 and a normal axis defined by the front facing surface 702 (e.g. by the planar surface portion 702A) has a maximum value of at most 80 degrees, for example, at most 70 degrees, for example, at most 60 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between a normal axis defined by the retaining surface 714 and a normal axis defined by the front facing surface 702 has a value of 67.5 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between a normal axis defined by the retaining surface 714 and a normal axis defined by the bottom surface 716 has a maximum value of at most 80 degrees, for example, at most 70 degrees, for example, at most 60 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the acute angle defined between a normal axis defined by the retaining surface 714 and a normal axis defined by the bottom surface 716 has a value of 67.5 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the at least one second panel defined protrusions 780 of the second connection counterpart 716, the longitudinal cross-section of the protrusions 780, taken along the axis 780X, which, in some embodiments, for example, is an axis that is parallel to a lateral axis 701X of the panel 700 (e.g. along an axis that extends between the upper horizontal outermost surface 706 and the lower horizontal outermost surface 708) has a dovetail shape. That is, the width of the protrusions 780, measured along an axis that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 700X of the panel 700 (e.g. along an axis that extends between the first vertical outermost surface 710 and the second vertical outermost surface 712) increases as the protrusions 780 extends in a direction towards the rear facing surface 704. In some embodiments, for example, the dovetail shape of the protrusion 708 has one “tail”, defined by the retaining surface 714 and the bottom surface 716. In some embodiments, for example, at least a portion of the retaining surface 714 of the protrusion-defining surface 780S is defined by the retaining surface 744 of the channel-defining surface 730S. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, at least a portion of the retaining surface 714 of the protrusion-defining surface 780S and at least a portion of the retaining surface 744 are defined by a common surface.

In some embodiments, for example, the form-fit relationship of the first panel 600 and the second panel 700, for defining the panel assembly 22, is a dovetail joint 800, for example, a sliding dovetail joint. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, for each one of the at least one first panel defined protrusions 680 and for each one of the at least one second panel defined protrusions 780, independently, the first panel defined protrusion 680 and the second panel defined protrusion 780 define the tail and pin of the dovetail joint 800. In some embodiments, for example, the dovetail joint 800 is defined by a co-operating configuration of the first panel defined protrusion 680 and the second panel defined protrusion 780. In some embodiments, for example, while the first panel defined protrusion configuration 682 is being slidably inserted into the second panel receptacle configuration 722, the second panel defined protrusion configuration 782 is being slidably inserted into the first panel receptacle configuration 622. In some embodiments, for example, while the panel assembly 22 is defined, the first panel defined protrusion configuration 682 is received the second panel receptacle configuration 722, the second panel defined protrusion configuration 782 is received in the first panel receptacle configuration 622.

In some embodiments, for example, the panel assembly 22 is defined by co-operation between the first panel defined protrusion 680, the second panel defined protrusion 780, and the channel-defining surfaces 630S and 730S, including the retaining surfaces 644 and 744, which are defined by undercut surfaces.

In some embodiments, for example, first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are co-operatively configured such that, while the panel assembly 22 is defined: (i) the retaining surface 614 of the first panel defined protrusion 680 and the retaining surface 744 of the channel 730 (e.g. the retaining surface 714 of the second panel defined protrusion 780) are disposed in abutting engagement, (ii) the retaining surface 714 of the second panel defined protrusion 780 and the retaining surface 644 of the channel 630 (e.g. the retaining surface 614 of the first panel defined protrusion 680) are disposed in abutting engagement, (iii) the bottom surface 616 of the first panel defined protrusion 680 and the bottom surface 742 of the channel 730 are disposed in abutting engagement, (iv) the bottom surface 716 of the second panel defined protrusion 780 and the bottom surface 642 of the channel 630 are disposed in abutting engagement, (v) the second vertical outermost surface 612 and the vertical surface 790 are disposed in abutting engagement, and (vi) the first vertical outermost surface 710 and the vertical surface 690 are disposed in abutting engagement, with effect that the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are disposed in force transfer communication.

In some embodiments, for example, while the panel assembly 22 is defined, the retaining surface 614 of the first panel defined protrusion 680 (or the retaining surface 644 of the channel 630) and the retaining surface 714 of the second panel defined protrusion 780 (or the retaining surface 744 of the channel 730) are co-operatively configured such that displacement of the first panel 600, relative to the second panel 700, along an axis that is parallel to a normal axis 602X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 600X and to the lateral axis 601X of the first panel 600 (or, for that matter, to the longitudinal axis 700X and to the lateral axis 701X of the second panel 700), in a rearward direction (e.g. rearward displacement of the first panel 600, relative to the second panel 700), wherein, in some embodiments, for example, the displacement is sufficient to defeat the form fit relationship, is opposed (e.g. prevented). In some embodiments, for example, while the panel assembly 22 is defined, the bottom surface 616 of the first panel defined protrusion 680, the bottom surface 742 of the channel 730, the bottom surface 716 of the second panel defined protrusion 780, and the bottom surface 642 of the channel 630 are co-operatively configured such that displacement of the second panel 700, relative to the first panel 600, along an axis that is parallel to a normal axis 702X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 700X and to the lateral axis 701X of the second panel 700 (or, for that matter, to the longitudinal axis 600X and to the lateral axis 601X of the first panel 600), in a rearward direction (e.g. rearward displacement of the second panel 700, relative to the first panel 600), wherein, in some embodiments, for example, the displacement is sufficient to defeat the form fit relationship, is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, for example, while the panel assembly 22 is defined, the bottom surface 616 of the first panel defined protrusion 680, the bottom surface 742 of the channel 730, the bottom surface 716 of the second panel defined protrusion 780, and the bottom surface 642 of the channel 630 are co-operatively configured such that displacement of the first panel, relative to the second panel 700, along an axis that is parallel to a normal axis 602X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 600X and to the lateral axis 601X of the first panel 600 (or, for that matter, to the longitudinal axis 700X and to the lateral axis 701X of the second panel 700), in a forward direction (e.g. forward displacement of the first panel 600, relative to the second panel 700), wherein, in some embodiments, for example, the displacement is sufficient to defeat the form fit relationship, is opposed (e.g. prevented). In some embodiments, for example, while the panel assembly 22 is defined, the retaining surface 614 of the first panel defined protrusion 680 (or the retaining surface 644 of the channel 630) and the retaining surface 714 of the second panel defined protrusion 780 (or the retaining surface 744 of the channel 730) are co-operatively configured such that displacement of the second panel 700, relative to the first panel 600, along an axis that is parallel to a normal axis 702X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 700X and to the lateral axis 701X of the second panel 700 (or, for that matter, to the longitudinal axis 600X and to the lateral axis 601X of the first panel 600), in a forward direction (e.g. forward displacement of the second panel 700, relative to the first panel 600), wherein, in some embodiments, for example, the displacement is sufficient to defeat the form fit relationship, is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, for example, while the panel assembly 22 is defined, the second vertical outermost surface 612 of the first panel 600, the vertical surface 790, the first vertical outermost surface 710 of the second panel 700, and the vertical surface 690 are co-operatively configured such that displacement of the first panel 600, along an axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis 600X of the first panel 600 (or, for that matter, to the longitudinal axis 700X of the second panel 700), in a direction towards the second panel 700, wherein, in some embodiments, for example, the displacement is sufficient to defeat the form fit relationship, is opposed (e.g. prevented). In some embodiments, for example, while the panel assembly 22 is defined, the second vertical outermost surface 612 of the first panel 600, the vertical surface 790, the first vertical outermost surface 710 of the second panel 700, and the vertical surface 690, are co-operatively configured such that displacement of the second panel 700, along an axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis 700X of the second panel 700 (or, for that matter, to the longitudinal axis 600X of the first panel 600), in a direction towards the first panel 600, wherein, in some embodiments, for example, the displacement is sufficient to defeat the form fit relationship, is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, for example, while the panel assembly 22 is defined, the retaining surface 614 of the first panel defined protrusion 680 (or the retaining surface 644 of the channel 630), the retaining surface 714 of the second panel defined protrusion 780 (or the retaining surface 744 of the channel 730), the bottom surface 616 of the first panel defined protrusion 680, the bottom surface 742 of the channel 730, the bottom surface 716 of the second panel defined protrusion 780, and the bottom surface 642 of the channel 630 are co-operatively configured such that angular displacement (e.g. rotational displacement) of the first panel 600, about an axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis 600X of the first panel 600 (or for that matter, the longitudinal axis 700X of the second panel 700), wherein, in some embodiments, for example, the displacement is sufficient to defeat the form fit relationship, is opposed (e.g. prevented). In some embodiments, for example, while the panel assembly 22 is defined, the retaining surface 614 of the first panel defined protrusion 680 (or the retaining surface 644 of the channel 630), the retaining surface 714 of the second panel defined protrusion 780 (or the retaining surface 744 of the channel 730), the bottom surface 616 of the first panel defined protrusion 680, the bottom surface 742 of the channel 730, the bottom surface 716 of the second panel defined protrusion 780, and the bottom surface 642 of the channel 630 are co-operatively configured such that angular displacement (e.g. rotational displacement) of the second panel 700, about an axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis 700X of the second panel 700 (or for that matter, the longitudinal axis 600X of the first panel 600), wherein, in some embodiments, for example, the displacement is sufficient to defeat the form fit relationship, is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, for example, while the panel assembly 22 is defined, the retaining surface 614 of the first panel defined protrusion 680 (or the retaining surface 644 of the channel 630), the retaining surface 714 of the second panel defined protrusion 780 (or the retaining surface 744 of the channel 730), the bottom surface 616 of the first panel defined protrusion 680, the bottom surface 742 of the channel 730, the bottom surface 716 of the second panel defined protrusion 780, the bottom surface 642 of the channel 630, the second vertical outermost surface 612, the vertical surface 790, the first vertical outermost surface 710, and the vertical surface 690 are co-operatively configured such that angular displacement (e.g. rotational displacement) of the first panel 600, about an axis that is parallel to the lateral axis 601X of the first panel 600 (or for that matter, the lateral axis 701X of the second panel 700), wherein, in some embodiments, for example, the displacement is sufficient to defeat the form fit relationship, is opposed (e.g. prevented). In some embodiments, for example, while the panel assembly 22 is defined, the retaining surface 614 of the first panel defined protrusion 680 (or the retaining surface 644 of the channel 630), the retaining surface 714 of the second panel defined protrusion 780 (or the retaining surface 744 of the channel 730), the bottom surface 616 of the first panel defined protrusion 680, the bottom surface 742 of the channel 730, the bottom surface 716 of the second panel defined protrusion 780, the bottom surface 642 of the channel 630, the second vertical outermost surface 612, the vertical surface 790, the first vertical outermost surface 710, and the vertical surface 690 are co-operatively configured such that angular displacement (e.g. rotational displacement) of the second panel 700, about an axis that is parallel to the lateral axis 701X of the second panel 700 (or for that matter, the lateral axis 601X of the first panel 600), wherein, in some embodiments, for example, the displacement is sufficient to defeat the form fit relationship, is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, for example, while the panel assembly 22 is defined, the retaining surface 614 of the first panel defined protrusion 680 (or the retaining surface 644 of the channel 630), the retaining surface 714 of the second panel defined protrusion 780 (or the retaining surface 744 of the channel 730), the second vertical outermost surface 612, the vertical surface 790, the first vertical outermost surface 710, and the vertical surface 690 are co-operatively configured such that angular displacement (e.g. rotational displacement) of the first panel 600, about an axis that is parallel to a normal axis 602X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 600X and to the lateral axis 601X of the first panel 600 (or for that matter, the longitudinal axis 700X and the lateral axis 701X of the second panel 700), wherein, in some embodiments, for example, the displacement is sufficient to defeat the form fit relationship, is opposed (e.g. prevented). In some embodiments, for example, while the panel assembly 22 is defined, the retaining surface 614 of the first panel defined protrusion 680 (or the retaining surface 644 of the channel 630), the retaining surface 714 of the second panel defined protrusion 780 (or the retaining surface 744 of the channel 730), the second vertical outermost surface 612, the vertical surface 790, the first vertical outermost surface 710, and the vertical surface 690 are co-operatively configured such that angular displacement (e.g. rotational displacement) of the second panel 700, about an axis that is parallel to a normal axis 702X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 700X and to the lateral axis 701X of the second panel 700 (or for that matter, the longitudinal axis 600X and the lateral axis 601X of the first panel 600), wherein, in some embodiments, for example, the displacement is sufficient to defeat the form fit relationship, is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, for example, while the panel assembly 22 is defined, the bottom surface 716 of the second panel defined protrusion 780 and the bottom surface 642 of the channel 630, are co-operatively configured such that bending of the first panel 600, about an axis that is parallel to the lateral axis 601X of the first panel 600, which, in some embodiments, for example, is urged by expansion and contraction of the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 caused by temperature or by the wind, is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, for example, while the panel assembly 22 is defined, the bottom surface 616 of the first panel defined protrusion 680 and the bottom surface 742 of the channel 730 are co-operatively configured such that bending of the second panel 700, about an axis that is parallel to the lateral axis 701X of the second panel 700, which, in some embodiments, for example, is urged by expansion and contraction of the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 caused by temperature or by the wind, is opposed (e.g. prevented).

In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in FIG. 20 to FIG. 25, the first connection counterpart 615 is defined at a first end 603 (e.g. a right end) of the first panel 600, and the second connection counterpart 718 is defined at a first end 705 (e.g. a left end) of the second panel 700. In some embodiments, for example, the first panel 600 includes a second connection counterpart 618, which are substantially similar to the second connection counterpart 718 of the second panel 700, at a second end 605 (e.g. a left end) of the first panel 600 that is opposite the first end 603, such that another panel, substantially similar to the panels 600, 700 depicted in FIG. 20 to FIG. 25, can be connected to the first panel 600 via the second connection counterpart 618 of the first panel 600 and the corresponding connection counterpart of the other panel, as described above, and the second panel 700 includes a first connection counterpart 715, which is substantially similar to the first connection counterpart 615, at a second end 703 (e.g. a right end) of the second panel 700 that is opposite the first end 705, such that another panel, substantially similar to the panels 600, 700 depicted in FIG. 20 to FIG. 25, can be connected to the second panel 700 via first connection counterpart 715 of the second panel 700 and the corresponding connection counterpart of the other panel, as described above, and that the panel assembly 22 can be defined by co-operative configuration of the second connection counterpart 618 of the first panel 600 and the first connection counterpart 715 of the second panel 700, in a manner substantially similar to the manner as described above with respect to the first connection counterpart 615 and the second connection counterpart 718. In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in FIG. 20 to FIG. 25, the first panel 600 and the second panel 700 are substantially identical.

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.

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).

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

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.

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

PANELS AND PANEL SYSTEMS FOR BUILDING CONSTRUCTION

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Provisional Applications (1)