WO2007112499A1

WO2007112499A1 - Panel modules, methods of forming such modules and clips for securing decorative elements to panels

Info

Publication number: WO2007112499A1
Application number: PCT/AU2007/000429
Authority: WO
Inventors: Cameron David Nelson
Original assignee: Cameron David Nelson
Priority date: 2006-04-06
Filing date: 2007-04-04
Publication date: 2007-10-11

Abstract

A panel module (1 ) includes; substrate panel (2) and a plurality of decorative strips (3) mounted on the substrate panel (2). The decorative strips (3) may be mounted in grooves (10) in a decorative face of the substrate panel (2). Clips (14) may be used for mounting the decorative strips (3). Acoustic properties may be enhanced by the choice; of materials for the strips and/or substrate panel and by addition of acoustic elements and/or coatings to the substrate panel.

Description

PANEL MODULES, METHODS OF FORMING THE SAME, AND CLIPS FOR SECURING DECORATIVE ELEMENTS TO PANELS

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to panels for use in covering an interior surface such as a wall or ceiling.

BACKGROUND

Linings for interior surfaces, such as walls and ceilings, in both residential and commercial buildings are well known in the art. These take many forms. One of the most common of these is to cover the walls and ceilings with gypsum-based wallboards, which typically have a flat, smooth, papered-covered surface and slightly bevelled edges. The bevelled edges are abutted together during installation and subsequently are typically filled with a gypsum based joint compound to produce a seamless looking finish which is then painted or wallpapered.

Historically those people who want a more decorative or individualistic finish to their walls may apply wainscoting. Wainscoting is typically installed over the top of wallboard on interior walls for decorative purposes. The material used for the wainscoting is most often wood, but can also be particleboard, pressed metal sheets, or gypsum-based mouldings.

Another type of decorative covering traditionally used has been wood panelling. Such panelling may, for example, have a sculptural design carved or otherwise cut into the panels.

A still further known variation comprises a plurality of parallel spaced apart strips of timber which are individually fixed over the top of the ceiling wall board. Finishes such as this have the added advantage of providing acoustic advantages.

i Decorative wall and ceiling finishes, however, generally suffer from one major disadvantage - they are vpry labour intensive to create, and consequently are expensive.

In the commercial envirarirm nt the. use of suspended ceilings and modular plastic, metal, or gypsum bas ed ceiling tiles or panels has become common- place. Such tiles or panels are generally all the same, ere typically flat or provided with minimal relief texture, and rarely have a warm and natural appearance. They are alsq ofjen heavy. Tiddly to install, and have poor acoustic absorption properties.

It is an object of the present in 'ention to provide a more cost effective decorative panel system that overcomes T at least addresses substantially all of the above noted issues. Alternatively^ it an object of the invention to at least provide the public with a useful choice, ϊ

Additional objects of the | present invention will appear as the description proceeds.

SUMMARY OF THE INVEN iijTπI¹qN

in a first aspect the invqnt iion provides a panel module of predetermined dimensions for Installation jwit i one or more like modules to form a panelled surface, the panel module irjclu di ng: a substrate panel having a bad c face, a decorative face and four sides; and a plurality of decorative strips mounted on the decorative face of the substrate panel in spaced apart relations lip to one another.

Preferably the substrate pariel Is formed and finished separately of the decorative strips, which can be subsequently fixed in position prior to mounting of the completed module.

Desirably the strips are spaced an equidistaπce apart. Preferably the decorative strip 5 are formed from timber material, such as cedar.

Alternatively the strips can be l ormed from plastics material such as PVC₁ or from foam, aluminium, steel, MbF veneer faced MDF or particle board, or other composites.

Desirably the decorative strips jextent the full length of the decorative panel.

Optionally two sets αf parallel '. spaced apart decorative strips can be mounted on the substrate panel so thai th Ϊ strips from one set cross over the strips of the other set. Conveniently trie wo sets of strips can be at right angles to one another.

Alternatively the spaced apjsrt [strips can be set to follow a wavy or snaked path, moet preferably, but not essjentjally, in parallel equi-spaced relationship.

Conveniently the spacing ofjthi strips enables modules to be placed side by side such as to give the appearanc e of continuity, and to conceal any cross bars or other mounting means used to mount the modules as ceiling or wall panels.

Preferably the acoustic panel πjiodule is formed from material having a high noise reduction coefficient ("NRCJ"), which is a single-number index for rating haw absorptive a particular materia is, and excellent sound barrier characteristics, ie a high sound transmission els ss ("STC"), which is a single-number rating of a material's barrier effect. Highe ^■ STC values are more efficient at reducing sound transmission.

Preferably the substrate papel i$ formed from melamine foam, which has a high NRC rating. Preferably tnej melamine foam includes a backing board to provide rigidity to the panel and to increase the STC value. Desirably the melamine foam is between 10mm and δOmrπ tr ick ,, most preferably 25mm thick.

Conveniently the backing bpard is a honeycomb type backing board having an outer foil facing, Attemativejly can be formed from MDF, gypsum board or PVC foam.

acoustic blanket applied to the fixing face of the substrate fjan^l.

Advantageously the decorative face of the substrate panel and the decorative strips are pre-finished in deisirod colours and/or finishes, although the melamine foam can be left in natural while or grey. Black painting gives the appearance of depth, and/or painting vvitHi a rubberised coating such as HYPALON™ from DuPont Performance ElastQmψs gives improved acoustic properties and a long life.

Preferably low weight material » are used for the decorative strips. This makes strong but labour-intensive; fεstening methods such as screws and the like unnecessary. Instead, coofierj ting parts such as the clip mechanisms described herein ate of sufficient strengt i to hold the assembled panel module together. This in turn results in a Jόw€ r cost product and allows flexibility in the final product. For example, a sele< tion of different decorative strips can be carried, with the appropriate strips cho; en for fitting at the worksite, before installation of the assembled panel.

Lightweight decorative strips also contribute to keeping the weight of the assembled panel low, fgr eajse •f installation. Preferably lightweight materials are also used for the substrate panels. Not only are lighter assembled panels physically easier to lift and position, but the mounting of the panels to a structure (such as a ceiling or wall) isj fa ilitated. For example, the panel modules can be used with known suspended! ce ling frameworks,

Such ease of assembly alscj allows ease of transport, since the substrate panels and strips can be transported separately. This avoids transport of assembled panels which in general doj πcjt fit well together, so occupy a larger than ideal volume.

In a second aspect the inveritio i provides a method of forming a panel module of predetermined dimensions for installation with one or more like modules to form a panelled surface, the method in eluding the steps of: providing a substrate p|ιnel having a back face, a decorative face and four sides; and mounting a plurality ol decorative strips on the decorative face of the substrate panel in spaced apart relationship to one another.

In 3 third aspect the invention | rovides a clip module including: a base member; and a plurality of clips exrterjding from the base member; wherein, in use, the base njiember is configured to engage with a back face of a panel, and the plurality of jclif s are configured to extend through one or more apertures in a panel and to roceive one or more decorative elements, thereby mounting decorative elements to a decorative face of a panel.

It is acknowledged that theiteitns "comprise", "comprises" and "comprising" may, under varying jurisdictions,! be attributed with either an exclusive or an inclusive meaning. For the purpose c f this specification, and unless otherwise noted, these terms are intended to he eve an inclusive meaning - i.e. they will be taken to mean an inclusion of not j on y the listed components which the use directly references, but also to other n< >π-specified components or elements.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF TH ^• DRAWINGS

The invention will now be deεc ribed by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings in wh Jh:

Figure 1 illustrates a ; perspective view from one end of a panel module according toia f rst embodiment of the present invention; i

! ) Figure 2 illustrates a par ially cut away end elevation of the panel module of figure 1;

Figure 3 illustrates a ?idά elevation of the panel module of figure 1 ; Figure 4 illustrates a rilar view from below of a plurality of the panels of the embodiment jof iigure 1 in position as ceiling panels;

Figuro S illustrates a jpeispective view from one end of a panel module according to ja s ϊcond embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 6 illustrates a dart ally cut away end elevation of the panel module of figure 5;

Figure 7 illustrates a side elevation of the panel module of figure 5;

Figure 8 illustrates a peijspectiivvee view from one end of a panel module according to & tr ird embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 9 illustrates a j sφtional end elevation of the panel module of i I figure 8;

Figure 10 illustrates a sjde| elevation of the panel module of figure 8;

Figure 11 illustrates a sjsctjonal end detail of the panel module of figure 8;

Figure 11 A shows an alternative clip module for use with a panel module such as that of Figμre 8;

Figure 12 illustrates a p.iar view of the clip mechanism of the strip mounting dips of the pφne module of figure 8;

Figure 13 illustrates a per spective view from one end of a panel module according to & ft rther embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 14 illustrates a ; sectional end elevation of the panel module of figure 13;

Figure 15 illustrates a perspective view from one end of 3 panel module according to a fijrther embodiment of the present invention; Figure 16 illustrates a j sectional end elevation of the panel module of figure 15;

Figure 17 illustrates a pertspecti ive view from one end of a panel module according to a fijrther embodiment of the present invention; and

Figure 18 illustrates a ; sectional end elevation of the panel module of figure 17.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following discussion ties cribes in detail preferred embodiments of the invention. This discussion she uld not be construed, however, as limiting the invention to those particular embodiments. Practitioners skilled in the art will recognize numerous other; er ibodiments as well without departing from the invention as described.

In the discussion functionary like components in the various embodiments are IiKe numbered.

As illustrated in figures 1 to; 4 ( I the drawings, a first embodiment of the present invention provides a panel! rmdule as generally indicated at 1 comprising a substrate pane! 2 and a plural ty of strips 3. The panel module is generally of standard or predetermined ϊjirrv insions, and is intended for installation with one or more like modules to form ja | anelled surface. The surface may be a wall or celling, for example.

Preferably the panel module is formed from materials having good sound absorbing qualities. A high noφe reduction coefficient ("NRC) is desirable. NRC is a single-number index jfor rating how absorptive a particular material is. Similarly, excellent sound b i]arr er characteristics are desirable, ie a high sound transmission class ("STC)₁ yvhfc shh is a single-number rating of a material's barrier effect. Higher STC values ajre i nore efficient at reducing sound transmission. The panel 2 comprises a fjrst, backing, layer 4 formed from 16mm honeycomb type board to which is bpru ^βd a second, strip fixing layer 5 formed from meJamine foam. Melamitpe foam has the advantage of being a relatively lightweight material, while the ioneycomb .board is also relatively lightweight but provides good rigidity. The rrelamine foam may have a thicknθss between 20 and 50mm, preferably aboyt 75mm, The melamine foam layer 5 has excellent acoustic absorptive character!; itiGs and a high NRC rating, and the honeycomb layer 4 provides a barrier tα reflect any sound that may have passed through the melamine layer 5 back toyvaids that layer for further attenuation. This also increases the STC value, Dei irably the melamine foam is between 10mm and

50mm thick, most preferably i 5mm thick. Other types of material having good j acoustic properties may alsφ b ! used in the strip-fixing layer or the backing layer.

Trie backing layer may haye a foil facing, and may also be formed from MDF, gypsum board or PVC fάanr or any other, preferably lightweight, suitable material. In general, the baφin 3 layer also provides greater rigidity, improving the structure of the panel.

The panel module 1 has oppo« ing sides 6/7 and 8/9, and is preferably sized and shaped to conform to existing suspended ceiling configurations, thereby allowing retrofitting of the modules i tc an existing ceiling space or for specifying using standard grids and associated JΓOSS bars. Equally, the modules 1 can be abutted and fixed directly to a ceilindj gr d or to a furring channel.

The melamine layer 5 is gr<Jovι jd to a depth, for example by a CMC router or the like, to receive and define trje d pacing of the strips 3. The grooves or slots 10 run from one opposing side 6 tp w ie other 7 along the decorative face of the panel, with the strips 3 extending the i ull length of the panel. Where the strips 3 are light weight, in the nature of ced Venetian biind type blades as shown in the drawings, the grooves 10 are cut slightly narrower than the strips 3, and the strips 3 are then pressed! in o position and held in place by the resulting interference fit. As an adcjed locating mechanism each end 11 of each of the strips 3 is notched 12 at tfje point where the strips 3 rise out of the melamine foam layer 5, and a mounting jnember in the form of a channel 13 is press fitted

Although the two sets of strips have been described as extending perpendicular to each other, they may extend at any angle to each other. Three or more sets of strips may be provided. ;

Figures 8 to 12 illustrate aj y€ t further alternative embodiment of the invention suited to use with thin timber strips 3 over 1200mm long. In the embodiment shown the panel 2 of the modi. Ie 1 comprises a single layer of mβlamine foam 5.

Grooves 10 are cut into the fc am layer 5 as in the embodiment described with reference to figures 1 to 4. At intervals of 600mrn along the length of the grooves 10 apertures 13 fijαm one face of the foam layer 5 to the other are provided, Mounting members in the form of resilient strips of interconnected clips 14 are piaced perpendicularly to the grooves on the back face 15 of the layer 5 so that a clip πjiec ianism 16 protrudes into each corresponding aperture 13, with the base] member of the clip strip 14 held against the back i face 15 of the layer 5.

the clip strip 14. In use the layer b is formed in o the desired size and shape, the grooves

and 14 which is formed frbnr two layers. Other panel jointing mechanisms known in the art are withip t e contemplation of the invention to provide the locKing mechanism required.

The modules 1 can either bje (I ilrectly fixed to a ceiling or wall, or indirectly via a batten or furring channel 1OfI, < s indicated by way of example in figure 14,.

In the embodiment of Figures 13 and 14, the panel 2 includes a thin backing layer 4 to provide some stnjcti ral rigidity. The backing layer 4 is then bonded to a melamine layer 5 in a ?tef wise offset so as to create the tongue 20 and groove 21 arrangement. Groo res 10 are created in the face 22 of the layer 5 to receive the strips 3. Apertures 13 at intervals of 600rnm along the length of the grooves 10 are created riφht through the panel 2 (ie through both the foam layer 5 and the backing layjer ). Resilient strips of interconnected clips 14 are placed perpendicularly to thp g ooves on the back face 22 of the layer 5 so that a clip mechanism 16 protrudes i ito each corresponding aperture 13, stopping just at or below the surface of thje fs ce 22 of the Jayer 5, with the remainder of the clip strip 14 held against the bacfk f ace 23 of the layer 4. Thus, in an assembled pane) the clips are preferably not yisiφle.

Operation of the clip strip jl4 3nd the mounting of the strips 3 is otherwise as previously described with rejfeπ nee to the embodiment of figure 8 to 12.

Further embodiments of the invention are illustrated in figures 15 to 18. Essentially there are two drnbσdiments shown, although the only difference of any significance is in the thicknpss of the strips 3.

Construction of the panel 2j is generally as previously detailed with reference to figures 1 to 4. Mounting of jthe modules 1 is also as described with reference to that embodiment. I

Spaced apart grooves 10 &re cut into the face 22 of the layer 5 to a depth of approximately at least half the thickness of the layer 5. The grooves 10 are the width of the finished strips 3J. I The strips 3 are formed frofn mil formed aluminium sheet, preferably of roughly 0.5mιn sheet thickness, (Th se can be pre-finished in any desired colour. Alternatively the strips can tje φdruded

Each strip 3 has a cross section shaped to a substantially U-shaped desired form. The form may be square or rounded or of any other suitable cross-section. The cross-section has a first p jrtion 30 adapted for insertion into the groove 10, and a second portion 31 adapted to extend outwardly of and from the face 22 of the layer 5. The first portion 30 comprises two substantially parallel spaced apart legs 32/33 which are resiliφntl ' maintained in spaced apart relationship by the second part 31. Each leg 32/3 J terminates in a ridge or lip 34 directed outwardly of the leg 32/33 it is on and awn i;y from the opposite leg 33/32.

The strips 3 can be installed or the panel 2 in two ways, depending on the cross sectional thickness of the $.tri| >s 3, and their length. In one arrangement the strips 3 can be slid down the Ie igth of the groove 10 from one end of the layer 5, the strip 3 remaining at the jco/ rect depth while being slid into position, and then locked in place using the cha iπel 12. Alternatively, and particularly when the strips 3 are a little wider, trje I »gs 32/33 can be squeezed together slightly and the strip 3 pushed directly ςfovn into the groove 10. Squeezing the legs 32/33 together allows the ridges 3J4 t j pass down Into the grooves 10. This operation can be facilitated by having th ridges 34 shaped like a barb; making insertion easier and resisting removal;.

Use of metal sheet in this yva ^r, forming a hollow strip, allows for a wider strip without the corresponding iijicf ase in weight which would result if wide wooden strips were used, for example, The metal sheet should be thin, so as to provide a lightweight decorative strip. !

For convenience it is prefera >le that the decorative face 5¹ of the substrate panel 2 and the decorative; st ips 3 are pre-finished in desired colours and/or finishes So that the module 1 is presented as a completed unit ready for installation. ; In one preferred form the i t-edorative strips 3 are formed from timber material, such as Western Red Cedar, Wood is particularly advantageous because an important property of wood jis i ts ability to damp vibrations. Wood has a cellular network of minute interlocking pores which converts sound energy into heat by frictional and viscαelastic resistance. Because of the high internal friction created by the cellular pore network, wood has more sound damping capacity than most structural materials. Western f ted Cedar is a particularly effective material to use in this regard and can be i usep to help reduce noise or to confine it to certain areas. Cedar has the additi nal advantage of being a relatively lightweight material. ^:

Alternatively the strips can be f rmed from plastics material such as PVC, or from foam, aluminium, steel, oth?r rhetals, MDF, veneer faced MDF or particle board, or other composites, prefexat; Iy with good acoustic properties, Plastics and foams have the advantage; of being lightweight materials. Plasties and metals may be formed in very thin teye rs , to provide a lightweight decorative strip.

To further enhance the acςusljc benefits that are obtainable through use of the panel modules of the present i vention optionally the substrate panel 2 can have one or more apertures (not; shown) cut through the panel 2 from the decorative lace 5 to the back face 1OJ2. Desirably any such apertures are arranged in a pattern of layout which enrφnφs the sound absorption and insulation properties of the panel module. Optimal ayouts can.be determined by those skilled in the art using techniques known in t ie art.

Additionally an acoustic eletneijit ;, such as acoustic blanket material or an acoustic panel (not shown) can be appfied to the back face of the substrate panel 2 for even greater sound absorpjtio The decorative face 5" of the substrate panel may be coated with an acoμst c coating to improve acoustic absorption, such as a rubberised paint. HYPALON ^m from DuPont Performance Elastomers may be suitable.

The panel modules 1 are; pr ferably manufactured in a continuous or batch production. The base panjeis 2 are preferably cut to, for example, a standard width of 300mm. As they! ar cut the sides 8,9 may have a tongue 10 and groove 11 routed into them. ' T ie decorative face 5 may already be covered in a melamine film, veneer, or lifxβ inish of the desired colour. Alternatively it can be sprayed at that point. If grψo v|es for the strips 3 are required these can also be routed at this point. OnCe¹U* necessary lengths of the modules 1 have been determined the panels 2 car. b( cut to length. The strips 2 are then attached.

In one method of installation, ceiling has the modules 1 applied by starting at one edge. The modules 1 ate f eferably provided in lengths equating to the width of the celling. A first module is installed and screwed or glued into position, Screws can be driven through the panel 2 into the ceiling support battens. The screws should be countersunh below the surface of the decorative face 5, and can then, because the strips p oviding showing, be covered with, for example, a colour matched dot or coveir tc hide the screw head. Alternatively other means as known in the art can be use to hide the screw head.

Alternatively, the modules may] simply be installed in a known suspended ceiling framework.

In general any arrangement, of Idecorative strips may be provided. Preferably the panel modules are designed iuch that strips on one panel module align with those of an adjacent panel* m 'dule when Installed. The strips may be straight strips arranged longitudinally, laterally or at an angle on the substrate panel. Alternatively, the strips can I e set to follow a wavy or snaked path, most preferably, but not essentially, i parallel equi-spaced relationship.

The strips 3 can be attached to the panel 2 in any number of ways that are known in the art. This may include, p jrely by way of example, screwing, nailing and/or gluing. Where the strips 3 $re very narrow in width, and particularly where they are deep, such as dimensiorø Iy similar to wooden Venetian blind slats, slotting the face 5 to a sufficient deptl to allow the strips 3 to be pressed into location and held in place with glue _> most desirable to provide stability and lateral security of position. In geπpπξ l , attachments which allow ease of assembly are preferred, such as the clip anc /or channel mechanisms described above. Also, lightweight decorative stripis f acilitate use of the clip and/or channel type of attachment. : It will be appreciated that while the invention as described has significant weight, visual and acoustic advantages over the prior art, anoiher important advantage is that the panel 2 and the stijips 3 can be manufactured and supplied individually, allowing maximum product desi< in flexibility and tow stocking cost. The construction described also has advantages as regards shipping, handling and finishing, as if necessary assembly can ocφr on site.

Advantageously the decorative face of the substrate panel and the decorative strips are pre-finished before assembly in desired colours and/or finishes, although meiamine foam l$yφ s can be left in natural white or grey. Black painting gives the appearance < if depth.

The panels m$y be cut to stair ard, pre-determined dimensions. The dimensions may be suitable for fitting toistεjndard hanging ceilings. For example, the width of the panels may be about 30dmr i . The length of the panels may be about 1200mm, or about 2400mm.

Although the invention has bøer described with respect to decorative strips, the clip module described above πψy be used with many different types of decorative elements. j

Wherein the foregoing description reference has been made to integers or components having knowfl squrvalents then such equivalents are herein incorporated as if individually! se forth.

Although this invention has^' b< sen described by a way of example of possible embodiments, it is to be apftre sated that improvements and/or modifications may be made thereto without departing from the scope of the present invention as described.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A panel module of predejterijnined dimensions for installation with one or more like modules to form a panejlec surface, the panel module including: a substrate panel having a back face, a decorative face and four sides; and a plurality of decorativa strips mounted on the decorative face of the substrate panel in spaced apar relationship to one another.

2. A panel module as claiime ϊ in claim 1 wherein the substrate panel has a plurality of grooves formed ihejrein , and each decorative strip is mounted in one of the grooves.

3. A pane) module as clajme< in claim 1 or 2 wherein one or more mounting members engage with the! decorative strips to secure them to the substrate panel.

4. A panel module as claimed n claim 3 wherein the mounting members include a channel which engages With an edge of the substrate panel and with the ends of the decorative strips. _:

5. A panel module as clainpec in claim 3 or 4 wherein the mounting members include one or more clips cjon igured to receive decorative strips and to secure them to the substrate panel.]

6. A panel module as daiφet in claim 5 wherein each clip has one or more projections each configurecj to engage with a surface of a received decorative strip. :

7. A panel module as claimed n claim 6 wherein the projections project inwards and in an insertion direction, ss jch as to aHow insertion of a decorative strip but impede disengagement of a] re eived decorative strip.

8, A panel module as clairrjed π claim 5, 6 or 7 wherein a plurality of dips are formed In a single structure jha> ng a base member configured to engage with the substrate panel, the clips expending from the base member.

9. A panel module as claimed claim 8 wherein the base member engages with the back face of the substφe panel, the plurality of clips extending through one or more apertures in the subjstφte panel to receive the decorative strips.

10. A panel module as clairne in claim 8 or 9 wherein the base member runs across the substrate panel at « angle to the decorative strips, thereby assisting the structure of the panel modu !β.

11. A panel module as clafme d in any one of claims 5 to 10 wherein a part of each clip furthest from the baϊ e member sits flush with or below the decorative surface of the substrate papei such that the clip is not visible in an assembled panel module. j

12. A panel module as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the plurality of decorative strips are mounte 3 in parallel spaced apart relationship to one another.

13. A panel module as clajrnqd in claim 12 wherein the plurality of decorative strips are mounted equidistant rom one another.

14. A panel module as clajm. in any preceding claim wherein the plurality of decorative strips are mounte longitudinally on the decorative face of the substrate panel. i

15. A panel module as claiξne in claim 14 wherein the decorative strips extend along substantially the full le>g ;h of the substrate panel.

16. A panel module as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the decorative strips are formed from wood.

17. A panel module as claijne J in claim 16 wherein the wood is cedgr, medium density fibreboard or a venejer nished material.

18. A panel module as cjaiπlied in any .one of claims 1 to 15 wherein the decorative strips are formed! from plastic.

19. A panel module as claimed iiin any one of claims 1 to 15 wherein the decorative strips are formed frc m foam.

20. A panel module as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 15 wherein the decorative strips are formed; frc m metal.

21. A pane! module as dainlied in any one of claims 1 to 15 wherein the decorative strips are formed from a composite material.

22. A panel module as claime d in any preceding claim wherein the decorative strips are formed in a substanti SlIy U-shaped hollow structure.

23. A panel module as clainped in claim 22 wherein each decorative strip has two legs which can be squeezed to jether f b< r mounting to the substrate panel.

24. A panel module as clairheq in any preceding claim including two intersecting sets of decorative strips.

25. A panel module as claime d in claim 24 wherein the two sets of decorative strips are mounted perpendjculbrly to each other.

26. A panel module as claim id in any preceding daim wherein the substrate panei is of standard, predeterrήiπed dimensions.

27. A pane! module as claimei in claim 26, having dimensions of about 1200 by 300 mm. !

28. A panel module as clairjne* In claim 26, having dimensions of about 2400 by 300 mm. i

29. A panel module as claim d in any preceding claim wherein the substrate panel is at least partly formed df melamine foam.

30. A panel module as clajme d in claim 29 wherein the melamine foam has a thickness between 20 and 50mm.

31. A panel module as claitjne in claim 30 wherein the melamine foam is about 25 mm thick. ^:

32. A pane! module as ciatmod in any preceding claim wherein the substrate panel includes a backing board

33. A panel module as clajim d in claim 32 wherein the backing board has a honeycomb structure. ^"

34. A panel module as ciairne J in claim 32 or 33 wherein the backing board is formed from medium density fittreboard, gypsum board or PVC foarrt.

35. A panel module as clairrled in any preceding claim further including an acoustic element mounted to trie back face of the substrate panel.

36. A panel module as claijme|j in claim 36 wherein the acoustic element is an acoustic blanket or panel. :

37. A panel module as clgimφd in any preceding claim wherein the substrate panel includes one or more jap rtures to enhance sound absorption.

38. A panel module as claiπ(iec in claim 38 wherein the apertures are arranged in a pattern enhancing sound $b oφtion.

39. A panel module as claim id in any preceding claim wherein the substrate panel has acoustic properties f >r enhanced sound absorption.

40. A panel module as claime d in claim 40 wherein the decorative face of the substrate panel is coated wijth _< in acoustic coating.

41. A panel module as clainhec in any preceding claim having two or more edges formed with a locking mecrian Sm for interlocking adjacent panel modules when installed.

42. A panel module as claiiπei i in claim 41 wherein the locking mechanism is a tonguβ-and-groove mechanjsrr .

43. A suspended ceiling incjluσjng two or more panel modules as claimed in any preceding claim. •

44. A method of forming |a banel module of predetermined dimensions for installation with one or more, like modules to form a panelled surface, the method including the steps of: providing a substrate panel jha¹ ing a back face, a decorative face and four sides; and mounting a plurality of decφra ive strips on the decorative face of the substrate panel in spaced apart relationship to one another.

45. A method as claimed in pla m 44, including the step of finishing the decorative strips before mounting them: on| the decorative face of the substrate pane!.

46. A method as claimed in cla i m 44 or 45 including forming a plurality of grooves in the substrate panel, and ounting each decorative strip in one of the grooves.

47. A method as claimed irj cliim 44, 45 or 46 wherein mounting the decorative strips includes attaching one σ ^• more mounting members which engage with the decorative strips to secure ther i to the substrate panel.

48. A method as claimed c aim 47 wherein attaching the mounting members

comprises attaching a channe¹ to an edge of the substrate panel and to the ends of the decorative strips.

49. A method as claimed -in ^:laim 47 or 48 wherein attaching the mounting members comprises attaching ?ne or more clips configured to receive decorative strips and to secure them to! the substrate panel.

50. A method as claimed; in claim 49 wherein attaching one or more clips comprises attaching a plurality |of clips formed in a single structure having a base member configured to engage with the substrate panel, the clips extending from the base member.

51. A method as claimed jin jlaim 50 wherein attaching the plurality of clips includes positioning the plurality of clips such that they extend through one or more apertures in the substrate panel to receive the decorative strips,

52, A method as claimed inbla m 50 or 51 wherein attaching the plurality of clips includes attaching the basel m mber at a plurality of points across the substrate panel at an angle to the debottative strips, thereby assisting the structure of the panel module.

53. A method as claimed irj an y one of claims 44 to 52 wherein the decorative strips are mounted in parallql s; aced apart relationship to one another.

54. A method as claimed inj cl; im 53 wherein the decorative strips are mounted equidistant from one anothej".

55, A method as claimed in c aim 44 or 44. wherein mounting the plurality of decorative strips comprises s ueezing together two legs of a substantially U- shaped decorative strip, pφiti< miπg the decorative strip in a mounting position, and releasing the two legs; [he legs, when released, engaging with the substrate panel thereby securing the decorative strip to the substrate panel.

56. A method as claimed in ny one of claims 44 to 55 including mounting a second plurality of decorative s trips to the substrate panel, the second piuality of decorative strips intersecting w :h the first plurality of decorative strips.

57. A method as claimed in *ny one of claims 44 to 56 including cutting the substrate panel to a standard, >redetermlned width. i

!

58, A method as claimed )n *ny one of claims 44 to 57 including cutting the substrate panel to a standard, )redetermined length.

59. A method as claimed in εjny one of claims 44 to 58 including finishing the decorative face of the substrate panel, before mounting the plurality of decorative strips. ;

60. A method as claimed inj an/ one of claims 44 to 59 further including mounting a backing board to the back fa ;e of the substrate panel.

61. A method as claimed in; an/ one of claims 44 to 59 further including mounting an acoustic element to the bac < face of the substrate panel-

62. A method as claimed irii aHiy one of claims 44 to 61 further including forming one or more apertures in the s Jbstrate panel to enhance sound absorption.

63. A method as claimed jπ daim 62 wherein the apertures are arranged in a pattern enhancing sound aφso ption.

64. A method as claimed jπ ny one of claims 44 to 63 wherein the substrate panel has acoustic properties or enhanced sound absorption.

65. A method as claimed in ny one of claims 64 further including coating the decorative face of the substrate panel with an acoustic coating.

66. A method as claimed iή arjy one of claims 44 to 65 further including forming a locking mechanism in two lor Υiore edges of the substrate panel for interlocking adjacent panel modules when nstalled.

67. A clip module including: a base member; and a plurality of clips extending fr >m the base member; wherein, in use, the base njienψber is configured to engage with a back face of a panel, and the plurality of j pι lip s are configured to extend through one or more apertures in a panel and tø receive one or more decorative elements, thereby mounting decorative elements o a decorative face of a panel.

68. A clip module as claimed in claim 67 wherein each clip has one or more

_! projections configured to enjgajhe with a received decorative element.

69. A clip module as claimed i i i claim 68 wherein the projections project inwards and in an insertion direction, uch as to allow insertion of a decorative element but impede dϊsengagementjof . received decorative element.

70, A ciip module as clairήed in any one of claims 67 to 69 wherein the base member is configured to rui|i aφross a panel, thereby assisting the structure of the panel.

71. A clip module as claimed i i any one of claims 67 to 70 wherein an outermost part of each clip is configured o sit flush with or below the decorative surface of a substrate panel, such that the dip is not visible in an assembled panel module.

72. A panel module accordinb to claim 1 substantially as herein described or exemplified with reference to tfpe accompanying drawings.

73. A method according ! to claim 44 substantially as herein described or exemplified, >

74. A clip module according to claim 67 substantially as herein described or exemplified with reference to tne accompanying drawings.