WO2016034870A1

WO2016034870A1 - Positioning apparatus and manufacture thereof

Info

Publication number: WO2016034870A1
Application number: PCT/GB2015/052523
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jacobi LEE
Original assignee: Lee Jacobi
Priority date: 2014-09-02
Filing date: 2015-09-01
Publication date: 2016-03-10
Also published as: GB201705099D0; GB2549201A

Abstract

Apparatus (2) suitable for use in positioning ceiling or wall panels in predetermined locations. The apparatus includes one or more channel means (4', 4") shaped to receive at least part of a panel in use, said channel means at least partially defined by one or more substantially planar outer walls (8', 8") and at least one inner wall (6', 6"). At least part (14) of the inner wall depends away from the outer wall thereby forming the opening into said channel means through which the ceiling or wall panel is inserted in use.

Description

Positioning Apparatus and Manufacture Thereof

The present invention relates to an apparatus suitable for positioning panels in place to form a surface, as well as the method of manufacture and use of the same.

Although the following description refers to apparatuses suitable for positioning or locating ceiling panels, the person skilled in the art will appreciate that the apparatus can be used to position other drywall/plasterboard panels in a predetermined location.

Conventionally, the formation of a ceiling surface using a number of plasterboard panels is a slow and laborious process. At present, for a plasterer or other construction worker operating alone, the plasterboard panel is usually hoisted into position and a brace is used to hold the same while it is fixed to a joist. Other workers can be used as extra pairs of hands if a hoist and/or brace is not available.

In many older buildings the joists can be unevenly spaced and in many cases of differing heights, particularly if the building has been altered. This increases the complexity of the process and the likelihood that the ceiling surface will not be flat. If the finished surface is flat and stable the chance of the plasterwork cracking is reduced.

It is therefore an aim of the present invention to provide an apparatus that addresses the abovementioned problems.

It is a further aim of the present invention to provide a method of manufacturing an apparatus that addresses the abovementioned problems. It is a yet further aim of the present invention to provide a method of addressing the abovementioned problems.

In a first aspect of the invention there is provided an apparatus suitable for use in positioning a ceiling or wall panel in a predetermined location, the apparatus including one or more channel means shaped to receive at least part of a panel in use, said channel means at least partially defined by one or more substantially planar outer walls and at least one inner wall wherein at least part of the inner wall depends away from the outer wall thereby forming the opening into said channel means through which the panel is inserted in use.

Thus the apparatus includes at least one channel or slot formed from a first planar outer wall and at least a second inner wall wherein at least part of the second inner wall is non-parallel to the other first outer wall to define an opening into the channel means that is larger and/or wider than the channel means .

Preferably the channel means is a linear and/or elongate recess, bead, or socket into which a panel fits in use. Once engaged with the panel the channel means holds or secures the same in position.

In one embodiment at least part of the first and second walls are substantially parallel. Typically at least the parallel portions of the first and second walls are substantially planar. Further typically the apparatus includes a channel where the walls in the interior of the channel are substantially parallel and where at least part of the walls forming the opening into the channel are non-parallel. Preferably the opening or entrance to the channel means is substantially greater in surface area and/or diameter than the channel means body. Typically the larger diameter opening of the channel means assists in the insertion of the panel.

Preferably the first outer wall is the outside wall in relation to the ceiling surface formed. Typically the non-parallel portion of the second inner wall depends into the ceiling cavity usually between the j oists in use. Further preferably the outer wall is substantially planar and/or flat.

In one embodiment the inner wall includes at least one non- planar or non-flat portion such that the opening or entrance to the channel means is substantially wider and/or of increased surface area. Typically at least part of the inner wall is shaped to taper or at least decreases the diameter of the channel means when viewed along an axis of the same.

In one embodiment the at least a part or portion of the inner and/or outer wall defining the opening into the channel means can be removed. Typically the removable part is attached by a line of weakening. Further typically the removable part is a part or portion of the outer wall. Thus, in an embodiment where part of the second and/or outer wall depends away, this part can be removed to leave a flat and/ or planar outer wall.

In a preferred embodiment substantially all of the outer wall can be removed and/or is removable.

In one embodiment the apparatus includes one or more formations . Typically the one or more walls forming the channel means include one or more formations. In one preferred embodiment the panel is a ceiling panel. Typically the panel comprises plasterboard, drywall and/or the like. In a further preferred embodiment the panel is a wall panel.

Typically the one or more formations include any one or any combination of recesses, holes, apertures, raised areas, roughened areas, ribs, dimples, tabs, spikes, striations and/or the like. Further typically the formations as sist in locating and/or fixing the plasterboard in position in use.

In one embodiment the apparatus includes at least one aperture to allow the ingres s of the finishing plaster or plaster skim.

In one embodiment at least part of the entrance or opening to the channel means includes one or more raised formations and/or roughened portions. Typically the raised formations and/or roughened portions form a 'non-slip' area on which at least part of the edge of the panel can rest before being inserted into the channel means.

In one embodiment at least one lateral portion or side of the channel means is substantially open.

In one embodiment the channel means includes an end wall. Typically the end wall is the innermost wall of the channel means. Further typically the end wall is located substantially between the outer and inner walls. Preferably the end wall is formed substantially perpendicularly to the first and/or second wall.

In one embodiment the end wall includes one or more formations . Typically the end wall includes one or more spikes. In one embodiment the end wall is located opposite to opening or entrance to the channel means.

In one embodiment the apparatus includes two channel means. Typically the channel means are coplanar or are located on the same plane. Further typically the channel means are arranged opposite and/or run parallel to one another.

In one embodiment the end wall forms a common wall between the opposite channel means. Typically the walls forming the first and second channel means are substantially symmetrical about the end wall and/or the longitudinal axis of the same. Further typically the walls define a substantially rectangular channel into which at least the edge o f a panel fits in use.

In one embodiment the channel means include one or more raised portions. Typically the raised portions are arranged to bite into and/or prevent the removal of the panel once inserted into the channel means. Further typically the raised portions are resiliently biased to a raised position such that they deform on the insertion of a panel in a first direction and prevent the removal of the panel in a second substantially opposite direction.

In one embodiment the apparatus includes one of more engagement means. Typically the engagement means are located on the outer surface of an end wall. Further typically the engagement means, engage with and/or otherwise mate with cooperating second or further engagement means on other apparatuses and/or end walls . Thus the engagement means can be used to secure a panel in place where the same meets and/or abuts another panel or wall. In one embodiment the second or further engagement means are located on an attachment length or member. Typically the attachment length or member is attached to a wall.

In one embodiment the apparatus includes one or more lines of weakening. Typically the apparatus is provided in substantially linear extrusions, lengths and/or strips. Further typically the lines of weakening allow the apparatus to be easily divided up into substantially shorter sections or lengths .

In one embodiment the engagement means include two or more complimentary and/or interlocking portions.

In one embodiment the engagement means include and or more substantially curved surfaces.

In a second aspect of the invention there is provided a method of manufacturing or producing an apparatus including one or more channel means shaped to receive at least part of a panel in use, said channel means defined by a substantially planar outer wall and at least a second inner wall wherein at least part of the second inner wall depends away from the outer wall thereby forming the opening into said channel means through which the panel is inserted in use .

Preferably the apparatus is constructed substantially from plastics material.

Typically the apparatus is extruded. Alternatively the apparatus may be moulded and/or cast.

In a third aspect of the invention there is provided a method of using an apparatus including one or more channel means shaped to receive at least part of a panel in us e, said channel means defined by a first wall and at least a second wall wherein at least part of the first and/or second wall depends away from the other wall thereby forming the opening into said channel means through which the panel is inserted in use.

In a fourth aspect of the invention there is provided a method of manufacturing an apparatus including one or more channel means shaped to receive at least part of a panel in use, said channel means defined by a first wall and at least a second wall wherein at least part of the first and/or second wall depends away from the other wall thereby forming the opening into said channel means through which the panel is inserted in use.

In a further aspect of the invention there is provided an apparatus for holding a ceiling panel in position, said apparatus including at least one channel means shaped to receive an edge of a panel in use, wherein one or more walls of the channel means include one or more formations .

In a yet further aspect of the invention there is provided an apparatus or device suitable for attachment or location on a panel, said apparatus including at least one channel, said channel defined by two or more walls.

In a yet further aspect of the invention there is provided a kit of parts, said kit including at least one a channel means including one or more engagement formations and at least one wall component.

Specific embodiments of the invention are now described with reference to the following figures wherein:

Figure 1 shows isometric views of one embodiment of the invention; Figures 2a and 2b show isometric views of two respective further embodiments of the invention;

Figures 3a and 3b show isometric views of further embodiments of the invention;

Figures 4a-4c illustrate the separation of two items in accordance with one embodiment of the invention;

Figures 5a to 5i illustrate the removal of a lip portion followed by removal of a wall portion in accordance with one embodiment of the invention;

Figures 6a-6e illustrate the use of an apparatus according to one embodiment of the invention;

Figures 7a-7e illustrate the use of an apparatus according to one embodiment of the invention;

Figures 8a and 8b show a ceiling panel being fixed in position in accordance with one aspect of the invention;

Figures 9a-9e illustrate the use of an apparatus according to one embodiment of the invention;

Figures 10a and 10b show a ceiling panel being fixed in position in accordance with one aspect of the invention;

Figures l a-l l d illustrate the assembly of a ceiling in accordance with the invention;

Figures 12a- 12c show a ceiling panel being fixed in position in accordance with one aspect of the invention; Figures 13, 14 and 15 show isometric views of respective yet further embodiments of the invention;

Figures 16a-16e illustrate the assembly of a wall in accordance with the invention;

Figures 17a- 17d illustrate the assembly and securing of a wall in accordance with one embodiment of the invention; and

Figure 18 illustrates securing of a wall panels in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

The ideas behind the present invention are as follows:

• to be marketed as an inexpensive consumable to the cost conscious DIYer and refurbishment sector to offer a range of options to help cover any eventualities encountered during installation.

• to be able to be manufactured from a number of suitable materials.

• to cut down the number of people required to fit ceiling panels.

• to offer a 'fix & forget' system ensuring an accurate panel to panel fix.

• to enable the final skim coat to be accomplished without any obstruction.

Figure 1 shows an isometric view of an apparatus or panel bead 2, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. The bead 2 is constructed from extruded plastics material in this example and is therefore practical and inexpensive to manufacture . The person skilled in the art will appreciate that all or part of the panel bead can be constructed from other materials, including metals such as aluminium. The actual finished dimensions will be dependent on the given material used by a manufacturer and by local considerations, such as thickness of plasterboard/drywall and its weight. Similarly the actual material the bead is manufactured of will be decided upon by the given manufacturer and is dependent on local considerations such as thickness of plasterboard or similar, so it could be either plastic or metal such as galvanised steel or aluminium. These considerations do vary from location to location. Whatever material is used the principals of lines of weakness / metal fatigue as discussed below are vital for the bead to function correctly.

Figures 1 -6 show a 'double bead' embodiment of the invention where the apparatus 2 includes two channels 4', 4" that are defined by an upper or inner walls 6', 6", an lower or outer walls 8', 8" and a common end wall 10. The apparatus beads 2 can be improved by the selective addition of specialist adaptations that take into account difficulties of handling plasterboard panels. In one example a non-slip ledge 12 is provided where a plasterboard panel can be 'rested in place' prior to pushing the panel into the bead channel 4. In addition, the inner wall 6 includes an upper lip portion 14 that is curved upwards to allow the plasterboard to slide into place easily. This lip portion can also be incorporated into the lower wall portion 8 as shown in figures 2a and 2b as a lower lip 15.

Furthermore the end wall 10 includes spike formations 1 1 , where it is intended a plasterboard ceiling panel can be 'rested in place' on the non-slip ledge 12 prior to pushing the panel into the bead and then firmly into the spikes 11.

As the lower or outer walls 8 form the ceiling surface, the lower lips 15 are detachable, usually by a line of weakening 1 9. If the lower walls 8 are to remain attached, a layer of plaster (skim) can be applied the lower surface is hidden. Alternatively or in addition, the entire lower wall 8 can be removed. Accordingly, figures 5a-5c show that the lower lip 15 can be detached along a line of weakening by moving the lip up and down to detach the same. Selectively, and in the same manner, the entire walls 8', 8" can be removed as shown in figures 5d-5i. Whichever portions of the bead are removed, the wide opening formed by the lips allows easy insertion of the panel. In the example shown in figure 2a the outermost parts are curved. In the example shown in figure 2b the outermost parts 14,15 are planar and angular.

Turning to figures 3a and 3b which show embodiments that includes a number of formations 16 and cut away holes or apertures 18a, 18b formed in the bead 2. The holes formed on the lower or outer walls 18b allow the ingress of the finishing plaster (skim). The holes formed in the upper or inner walls 18a reduce the weight of the bead and therefore the bead uses less raw material.

Situated on the ledge or edge area 20 of the outer wall 8 there are formations 16 that form a non-slip, roughened area 12 so that when the plasterboard is placed in position it will not too easily move out of place. After pushing the panel into position in the channel 4 it will be secured in place in the channel by raised areas or tabs 17 that are designed to bite into the panel surface in the event the panel is pulled out of place.

These embodiments have taken into consideration the practicalities involved in handling a plasterboard ceiling panel. The bead 2 has a non-slip ledge 12 where a plasterboard ceiling panel can be 'rested in place' prior to pushing the panel into the bead. The top wall of the panel 6 is curved upwards to allow the plasterboard to slide into place easily without snagging. The lower section of the panel 8 is curved downwards, acting like a funnel, to allow the plasterboard to slide easily into place without snagging. This curved section is on one side only and is removed after installation.

It is envisaged that the double bead embodiment is manufactured is a substantially continuous strip. In the examples shown in figures 4a-4c the inner walls 6a, 6b and end wall are separated along a linear line 24. The outer walls are not separated, but are provided with a weakened portion or line 19 that when the adj oining sections are bent up and down the sections snap apart easily thus eliminating the need for additional cutting tools. Each section should be the correct width to fit between the floor/ceiling joists. The beads 2 can be sold with predetermined section widths such that a variety of widths is available to the consumer. A notch 21 is also provided in the lower lip so that the beads 2 can be snapped apart without deforming and potentially damaging the lower lips 15.

Turning now to figures 6a-6e show how a ceiling can be assembled using the apparatus. After pressing home one channel 4" of the bead between the floor joists into the panel 20 already in position, the other opposite channel 4' of the bead now acts as a ledge where the next panel 21 can be guided into position and 'rested in place' prior to pushing the whole panel into the bead as shown in figures 6a to 6e.

The lower curved section or lip 15 can then be removed or indeed the entire lower wall 8, to leave a smooth flat surface suitable for applying a plaster skim such that externally the device will be concealed.

This means one end of the panel is now firmly held in place so that the contractor/fitter need only concentrate on the free end. In practice a bead 2 can be fitted between as many floor joists as necessary to securely lock a panel into position. So for example the fitter may decide to use three beads at each end of each panel.

Where the ceiling panels meet a wall the standard bead configuration previously described will not work.

An additional embodiments are shown in figure 7a and 7b where the section to be attached to the panel bead 102 is provided as a separate item 126. The bead 102 in these examples are provided as a standard single bead with male engagement means 122 or portions and female engagement means or portions 1 10 attached to the outer surface of the end wall. The male 122 and female 110 parts work in conjunction with the corresponding male 122 and female 1 10 features formed on the separate item or wall strip 126, which is attached to the wall in use.

The example shown in figure 7a has engagement means with locking formations formed in the same such that when the respective engagement means meet, they push into each other and lock so that there is no movement, up or down, or side to side. The method of locking the wall strip section 126 and panel section 102 together is shown in figures 7c-7e. Figure 7b shows an example where the locking formations are located separately to the male 122 and female 1 10 features. In this example the locking formations 210, 222 locking the wall strip 126 and the bead 102 together are formed separately to the male 122 and female 1 10 features. The catch locking formation 222 and the lock locking formation 210 are formed on the bead 102 and the wall strip 126 respectively however the person skilled in the art will appreciate that the formations could be located the other way around and/ or in conjunction with locking formations formed in the male and female features. In the figure 7b example the locking mechanism(s) 210 are located on the female wall strip bead to sit above the ceiling panel line, the void between the floor joists. They can therefore be as big as necessary and the manufacturer can decide how many are required per bead section, the example shown shows three. If more than two beads are used to fit a ceiling panel, then only one locking mechanism could be used, however using two would be safer in the event of a mechanism failure.

Figures 8a and 8b shows one example of the interdigitating engagement means where the bead 102 is attached to a ceiling panel and is pushed upwards until it meets the wall section 126. The bead 2 and the wall strip 26 are then locked together via the male 122 and female 1 10 features .

In the event where the last ceiling panel to be fitted is in the middle, this could be problematic but the male/female engagement means can also work in this instance too . In this situation the bead sections 102, 202 attached to the panels are separate items as shown in figure 9a to 9e. The example given in figure 9b shows the embodiment where the locking formations 210, 222 are formed separate to the male 122 and female 110 formations. Figures 9c-9e show the locking together of bead sections where the locking formations are integrally formed in the male and female formations.

Mechanically this will be the same as previously described and one part of this bead 102 configuration is identical to the one described in figure s 7 and 8. The difference is the second engagement part on bead 202, mechanically (male 122/female 110 alignment) is the same as the wall strip 126 in figures 7 and 8, but this time inserted onto a second panel as a second bead 202. Figures 10a and 10b show how the lower bead 102 is attached to a ceiling panel first then pushed upwards until it meets the other bead 202, also attached to a further ceiling panel. The two bead sections 102, 202 then lock together via complementary engagement means 110, 122.

Figures l l a-l l d, and figures 12a-12c show illustrations of how the beads could be used and located when assembling a ceiling. In figure 1 1 a it is shown where the double bead 2 embodiment could be located. Figure l i b shows where the single bead embodiments 102 and 202 should be located to complete the installation.

Figure 12a- 12c show an illustration of the ceiling panel being pushed into place where the single bead embodiment 102 is inserted onto the ends of the panel being pushed up into place. The single bead embodiment 202 and the wall strip 126 are located above and receive the same. On insertion the beads lock together and/ or the bead and wall strip locks together and the panel is fixed into place.

Turning now to figure 13 where there is shown a further embodiment of a bead 2, similar to that shown for ceiling panels in figure 1 , however this particular example the bead 2 is configured to receive wall panels. For business premises and some homes, there are occasions when the installation of pre- finished horizontal panels is required. In this example the installation environment is a timber stud wall.

While the bead shape is the same as previously described, its use dictates differences in where the lines of weakening 19 are situated and because it will be used to install relatively long horizontal panels along a horizontal axis and/or a vertical plane. The bead 2 should manufactured in lengths which will then be required to be cut to size as required.

Illustrated in figure 13 below is a length of standard wall panel double bead who s function is to join horizontal panels and make the section between the vertical studs rigid and secure. In this example the outer walls 8', 8" of the double bead sections are located at the front and the lip 1 5 or curved section at the top of the inner wall 6'. On insertion of the panel into the bead 2 the spike formations 11 embed themselves into the same .

Figure 14 shows an example where the standard wall panel double bead include s formations 18a, 1 8b of cutaway holes or apertures to reduce weight and use less raw materials. The outer walls 8 or forward sections of the bead is curved outwards to allow a wall panel to slide easily into place without snagging and are removed after installation by manipulation of the wall along a line of weakening. The lower part is positioned onto a panel and the top section has holes 18b to accept screws 28 so the bead, and therefore the lower panel, can be secured onto vertical wall stud work. The holes are elongated to allow for settling.

The inner walls 6 or back sections, both top and lower can be fixed onto the back of the wall panels. This could be achieved by incorporating a paper or similar sheet material including an adhesive layer into the inner surfaces of the inner walls 6, so when brushed with for example, a wet brush, the adhesive is activated. Alternatively a suitable glue or resin could be applied. The removable lips 15 at the top of the back sections 6 curve outward into the void behind the wall panels. When this coincides with an upright wall stud, the particular lip 15 or curved section can be easily removed so that it doesn't interfere. Figure 1 5 illustrates the standard wall panel single bead 102, which is essentially just the top part of the standard wall panel double bead 2 previously described in figures 13 and 14. The single bead 102 is used to anchor the first wall panel to the floor and to the timber stud wall.

The method of installation is shown in figures 16a-16e, wherein in figure 16a a length of standard wall panel single bead 102 is cut to size to fit across the width of the wall. Top lip sections 15 are removed where they overlap onto the vertical timber studs . The bead is screwed onto the stud 30 and onto the floor. Glue is applied to the vertical stud 30 and back section of the bead 106. Once the bottom bead 102 is in position standard wall panel double bead 2 is cut to size to fit across the width of the wall with the top curved lip sections 15 removed where they overlap onto the vertical timber studs 30. Glue is applied to outer back wall 6 sections of the bead 2 which is then fitted at the top edge of the wall panel, as shown in figure 16b.

The wall panel is then manoeuvred into the standard wall panel single bead 102 previously fitted by sliding it downwards against the vertical studs. This procedure will spread the glue against the back of the wall panel. Then, as shown in figure 1 6c, the standard wall panel double bead is then screwed onto the vertical timber stud securing the first wall panel in place.

The procedure previously described in figures 16b-16c is repeated on all subsequent wall panels except for the last wall panel running acros s the top of the installation. When all the wall panels have been fitted and the glue has dried and set, the visible outer walls 8', 8" can be removed. The thin join formed by the common end wall 10 in-between the wall panels could then be infilled if so required. The last wall panel running across the top of the installation will be the most problematical because there will be no movement up or down. The previously fitted wall panel and ceiling will not permit vertical movement. Therefore the standard wall panel double bead 2 will need to be split into two components, the top section 202a and the lower section 202b. Each section will need to have one half of an engagement means in the form of locking formations or mechanisms 222 added, upper mechanism 222a and lower mechanism 222b. Glue is applied to the vertical studs 30 and back sections of all the beads as previously described. The lower section 202b is pushed onto the previously fitted wall panel 32 and the top section 202a is pushed onto bottom of the top wall panel. The top of the last wall panel requires an adapted lower section 222c fitted so the catch at the back is situated beneath the horizontal timber wall stud. This adapted lower section 222c requires an anchor section 222d for it to push and lock into. In this example these sections are much deeper in profile to miss the horizontal stud wall. Anchor section 222d is located at the back, in-between the vertical stud walls . Figures 17a-17d shown how the last panel could be initially rested on the previously fitted wall panel and pushed and locked into place. The last diagram shows the visible outer wall sections 208 removed. This procedure is also illustrated in figure 18c wherein, the previously fitted wall panel is secured into position by the use of small sections of the standard wall panel double bead 2 with the spikes removed and screwed into place onto the vertical timber wall studs. The adapted lower section 202b pushed onto the top of the last wall panel requires the catch 222d at the back to be situated beneath the horizontal timber wall stud. This section 222d is, in this example mounted on brackets 232 shown in figures 18a and 18b. Optionally, 222d can be screwed at the back 252 to help prevent any flexing outwards. The screws will also keep the back of the bead firmly in place.

Claims

1. An apparatus suitable for use in positioning a ceiling or wall panel in a predetermined location, the apparatus including one or more channel means shaped to receive at least part of a panel in use, said channel means at least partially defined by one or more substantially planar outer walls and at least one inner wall wherein at least part of the inner wall depends away from the outer wall thereby forming the opening into said channel means through which the panel is inserted in use.

2. Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the channel means is a linear and/or elongate recess, bead, or socket into which a panel fits in use.

3. Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein at least part of the first and second walls are substantially parallel.

4. Apparatus according to claim 3 wherein at least the parallel portions of the first and second walls are substantially planar.

5. Apparatus according to claim 4 wherein the apparatus includes a channel where the walls in the interior of the channel are substantially parallel and where at least part of the walls forming the opening into the channel are non-parallel.

6. Apparatus according to claim 5 wherein the opening or entrance to the channel means is substantially greater in surface area and/or diameter than the channel means body.

7. Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the first outer wall is the outside wall in relation to the ceiling or wall surface formed.

8. Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the non-parallel portion of the second inner wall depends into the ceiling or wall cavity usually between the joists or studs in use.

9. Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the inner wall includes at least one non-planar or non-flat portion such that the opening or entrance to the channel means is substantially wider and/or of increased surface area.

10. Apparatus according to claim 9 wherein at least part of the inner wall is shaped to taper or at least decreases the diameter of the channel means when viewed along an axis of the same.

11. Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein at least a part or portion of the inner and/or outer wall defining the opening into the channel means can be removed.

12. Apparatus according to claim 1 1 wherein the removable part is attached by a line of weakening.

13. Apparatus according to claim 12 wherein the removable part is a part or portion of the outer wall which can be removed to leave a flat and/or planar outer surface.

14. Apparatus according to claim 13 wherein substantially all of the outer wall can be removed and/or is removable.

15. Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the apparatus includes one or more formations .

16. Apparatus according to claim 15 wherein the one or more walls forming the channel means include one or more formations .

17. Apparatus according to claim 16 wherein the one or more formations include any one or any combination of recesses, holes, apertures, raised areas, roughened areas, ribs, dimples, tabs, spikes, striations and/or the like.

18. Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the apparatus includes at least one aperture.

19. Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein at least part of the entrance or opening to the channel means includes one or more raised formations and/or roughened portions .

20. Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein at least one lateral portion or side of the channel means is substantially open.

21. Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the channel means includes an end wall.

22. Apparatus according to claim 21 wherein the end wall is located substantially between the outer and inner walls.

23. Apparatus according to claim 22 wherein the end wall is formed substantially perpendicularly to the first and/or second wall.

24. Apparatus according to claim 23 wherein the end wall includes one or more formations .

25. Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the apparatus includes two channel means.

26. Apparatus according to claim 25 wherein the channel means are coplanar or are located on the same plane.

27. Apparatus according to claim 26 wherein the end wall forms a common wall between opposite channel means.

28. Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the channel means include one or more raised portions to bite into and/or prevent the removal of the panel once inserted into the channel means.

29. Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the apparatus includes one of more engagement means.

30. Apparatus according to claim 29 wherein the engagement means engage with and/or otherwise mate with cooperating second or further engagement means on other apparatuses and/or end walls thereby the engagement means secure a panel in place where the same meets and/ or abuts another panel or wall.

31. Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the apparatus includes one or more lines of weakening.

32. A method of manufacturing or producing an apparatus including one or more channel means shaped to receive at least part of a panel in use, said channel means defined by a substantially planar outer wall and at least a second inner wall wherein at least part of the second inner wall depends away from the outer wall thereby forming the opening into said channel means through which the panel is inserted in use.