Kit and assembly for compensating for coefficients of thermal expansion of decorative mounted panels

Abstract

A wall panel attachment system for use with a vertically supported sub wall. Pluralities of horizontal and vertical extending and elongated profiles intersect to define an overall grid pattern. Each of the profiles exhibit, in cross section, a flattened base portion adapted to being secured to the sub wall by a plurality of fasteners. A web extends from an intermediate location of the base portion and in turn supports both an intermediate lip and an outermost spaced lip extending outwardly in both directions from the web. A plurality of panels each have a thickness separating front and back surfaces and surrounded by four interconnecting side edges within which are defined recessed profiles. The recessed profile edges of the panels seat the outermost spaced lips such that the back surface contacts the intermediate lip. The panels are permitted movement in multi axial directions in response to experienced coefficients of thermal expansion without buckling or warpage.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.