| US6148584A | 2000-11-21 | |||
| US20210156154A1 | 2021-05-27 |
| CLAIMS 1. A modular trim system, comprising: a plurality of a track members, each of the plurality of track members having a track length, an outward-facing track surface and a wall-facing track surface, each of the plurality of track members including a track web portion and at least one flange extending along the track length, the track web portion defining a track width W5 and track web thickness T, the at least one flange having a flange width W6 and a flange depth D4; a plurality of linear trim pieces, each of the plurality of linear trim pieces having a trim length, an outward-facing trim surface, a wall-facing trim surface and first and second trim sides, a distance between the outward facing trim surface and the wall-facing trim surface defining a trim depth Dl, a distance between the first and second trim sides defining a trim width Wl, the wall facing trim surface having a trim backplane intersecting with the first and second trim sides at respective first and second inner trim edges, the wall-facing trim surface having a trim recessed area, the trim recessed area extending the trim length and having trim recessed width W2, the trim recessed width W2 being greater than the track width W5, the trim recessed area having a recessed trim surface recessed from the backplane by a trim recessed depth D2, the trim recessed depth D2 being greater than the track web thickness T, the trim recessed area including at least one trim channel extending the trim length, the at least one trim channel having a trim channel width W3 and a trim channel depth D3, the trim channel depth D3 being greater than the flange depth D4, the at least one trim channel frictionally receiving the at least one flange; at least one trim joiner piece, the at least one trim joiner piece having an outward-facing joiner surface and a wall-facing joiner surface defining a joiner depth D5, the at least one trim joiner piece having a joiner width W8 greater than the trim width Wl, the wall-facing joiner surface having a joiner backplane and a joiner recessed area, the joiner recessed area have a joiner recessed width W10 greater than the track width W5, the joiner recessed area having a recessed joiner surface recessed from the joiner backplane by a joiner recessed depth D7 greater than the track web thickness T, the joiner recessed area including at least one joiner channel, the at least one joiner channel having a joiner channel depth D8 greater than the flange depth D4, the at least one joiner channel frictionally receiving the at least one flange, the wall-facing joiner surface including at least one pocket, the at least one pocket having a pocket width greater than the trim width Wl, the at least one pocket having a pocket depth D6 less than the joiner depth D5 and greater than the trim depth D1 , the at least one pocket having a pocket length L3, the at least one pocket configured to receive an end of one of the plurality of linear trim pieces. 2. The modular trim system of claim 1, wherein the at least one flange includes at least one resilient fin. 3. The modular trim system of claim 1, wherein the at least one flange includes at least one ridge. 4. The modular trim system of claim 1, wherein the at least one flange includes at least one bulge. 5. The modular trim system of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of the track members includes at least two spaced flanges. 6. The modular trim system of claim 5, wherein the trim recessed area of each of the plurality of linear trim pieces includes at least two spaced trim channels, each of the at least two spaced trim channels matingly aligning with one of the at least two spaced flanges. 7. The modular trim system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one trim joiner piece includes first and second pockets, the first pocket configured to receive an end of a first one of the plurality of linear trim pieces, the second pocket configured to receive an end of a second one of the plurality of linear trim pieces. 8. The modular trim system of claim 7, wherein the first and second pockets are on opposing ends of the at least one trim joining piece in parallel alignment. 9. The modular trim system of claim 7, wherein the first and second pockets are in a common plane. 10. The modular trim system of claim 9, wherein the first and second pockets are oriented to define an interior angle between 90 degrees and 180 degrees between the first and second linear trim pieces received in the respective first and second pockets. 11. The modular trim system of claim 7, wherein the first and second pockets are in perpendicular planes. 12. The modular trim system of claim 11, wherein the at least one trim joiner piece is a 90 degree outside corner joiner. 13. The modular trim system of claim 11, wherein the at least one trim joiner piece is a 90 degree inside corner joiner. 14. The modular trim system of claim 12, wherein the at least one trim joiner piece includes an interchangeable outside corner piece selected from one of a square corner piece, a round corner piece and a chamfered corner piece. 15. The modular trim system of claim 13, wherein the at least one trim joiner piece includes an interchangeable inside corner piece selected from one of a square corner piece, a round corner piece and a chamfered corner piece. 16. The modular trim system of claim 9, wherein the at least one trim joiner piece includes a third pocket in the common plane. 17. The modular trim system of claim 16, wherein the at least one trim joiner piece includes a fourth pocket in the common plane. 18. The modular trim system of clam 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of track members includes an integral mounting structure having a distal end extending beyond the wall facing track surface, the distal end configured to be received in a slot of one of a window casing and a door casing, the integral mounting structure having a dimension W7 relative to the track width W5 to be received in an area W4 of the trim recessed width W2. |
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of US Provisional Application No. 63/260,568, filed August 25, 2021 and Canadian Application No. 3,122,361, filed June 15, 2021, each of the disclosures of which are incorporated herein in their entireties.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Trim installation in residential and commercial buildings is time consuming, labor intensive and requires highly skilled or professional finish carpenters, resulting in extended schedules for job completion and high construction costs. Therefore, a need exists for a modular trim system that reduces installation time, material and labor costs by being easily installed by unskilled laborers and do-it-your-selfers, yet produces a professionally installed appearance and is adaptable to provide various types of trim styles.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0003] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a room showing examples of one embodiment of a modular trim system installed in the room, including linear trim pieces and several different trim joiner pieces forming baseboard trim, door trim and window trim.
[0004] FIG. 2 is the same perspective view of the room of FIG. 1, but with the linear trim pieces and trim joiner pieces removed to show an embodiment of the underlying track members onto which the linear trim pieces and different trim joiner pieces mount.
[0005] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing another example of the modular trim system with the linear trim pieces and trim joiner pieces arranged on a wall to form Wainscoting trim.
[0006] FIG. 4 is a plan view showing another example of the modular trim system with the linear trim pieces and trim joiner pieces arranged on a ceiling to form a coffered ceiling trim.
[0007] FIG. 5 is an elevation view showing another example of the modular trim system with the linear trim pieces and trim joiner pieces arranged on a wall to form a picture frame trim array. [0008] FIG. 6 is an elevation view showing another example of the modular trim system with the linear trim pieces and trim joiner pieces arranged to form another style of window trim.
[0009] FIG. 7 is an elevation view showing another example of the modular trim system with the linear trim pieces and trim joiner pieces arranged to form an octagonal picture frame trim or an octagonal window trim.
[0010] FIG. 8 is an elevation view showing another example of the modular trim system with the linear trim pieces and trim joiner pieces arranged to form a hexagonal picture frame trim or a hexagonal window trim.
[0011] FIG. 9 is a rear perspective view of one embodiment of a linear trim piece of the modular trim system.
[0012] FIG. 9A is an end elevation view of the linear trim piece of FIG. 9.
[0013] FIG. 9B is a rear perspective view of another embodiment of a linear trim piece having a single channel.
[0014] FIG. 9C is an end elevation view of the alternative linear trim piece embodiment of FIG. 9B.
[0015] FIG. 10 is a rear perspective view of an embodiment of a track member of the modular trim system.
[0016] FIG. 10A is an enlarged end view of the track member of FIG. 10.
[0017] FIG. 10B is an enlarged end view of another embodiment of a track member with a single flange.
[0018] FIG. IOC is an enlarged end view of alternative embodiment of a track member that may be used around window and door casings.
[0019] FIGs.lOD, 10E and 10F show alternative embodiments of the flange portion of the track members for any of the embodiments of FIGs. 10, 10A, 10B and IOC. [0020] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the modular trim system as viewed along line 11-11 of FIG. 1, showing the track piece of FIG. 10 onto which is mounted the linear trim piece of FIG. 9 in the form of baseboard trim.
[0021] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the modular trim system as viewed along line 12-12 of FIG. 1, showing the track piece of FIG. 10A disposed around a window or door casing onto which is mounted the linear trim piece of FIG. 9 in the form of window or door trim.
[0022] FIG. 12A is a cross-sectional view of the modular trim system as viewed along line 12-12 of FIG. 1, showing the track piece of FIG. IOC disposed around a window or door casing onto which is mounted the linear trim piece of FIG. 9 in the form of window or door trim.
[0023] FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of one trim joiner piece in the form of a baseboard joiner as shown in FIG. 1.
[0024] FIG. 13A is a rear perspective view of the baseboard joiner piece of FIG. 13.
[0025] FIG. 13B is a bottom perspective view of the baseboard joiner piece of FIG. 13.
[0026] FIG. 13C is an end elevation view of the baseboard joiner piece of FIG. 13.
[0027] FIG. 14 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of another trim joiner piece in the form of an outside square corner joiner as shown in FIG. 1.
[0028] FIG. 14A is a rear perspective view of the outside square corner joiner of FIG. 14.
[0029] FIG. 14B is a top plan view of the outside square corner joiner of FIG. 14.
[0030] FIG. 14C is a bottom plan view of the outside square corner joiner of FIG. 14.
[0031] FIG. 15 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of another trim joiner piece in the form of an inside square corner joiner as shown in FIG. 1.
[0032] FIG. 15A is a rear perspective view of the inside square corner joiner of FIG. 15.
[0033] FIG. 15B is a top plan view of the outside square corner joiner of FIG. 15. [0034] FIG. 15C is a bottom plan view of the outside square corner joiner of FIG. 15.
[0035] FIG. 16 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of another trim joiner piece in the form of a universal outside corner joiner showing an interchangeable square corner.
[0036] FIG. 16A is a top plan view of the universal outside corner joiner of FIG. 16.
[0037] FIG. 16B is an exploded rear perspective view of the universal outside corner joiner of
FIG. 16.
[0038] FIG. 16C is an exploded bottom plan view of the universal outside corner joiner of FIG. 16.
[0039] FIG. 17 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of another trim joiner piece in the form of a universal outside corner joiner showing an interchangeable rounded corner.
[0040] FIG. 17A is a top plan view of the universal outside corner joiner of FIG. 17.
[0041] FIG. 17B is an exploded rear perspective view of the universal outside corner joiner of
FIG. 17.
[0042] FIG. 17C is an exploded bottom plan view of the universal outside corner joiner of FIG.
17.
[0043] FIG. 18 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of another trim joiner piece in the form of a universal outside corner joiner showing an interchangeable chamfered corner.
[0044] FIG. 18A is a top plan view of the universal outside corner joiner of FIG. 18.
[0045] FIG. 18B is an exploded rear perspective view of the universal outside corner joiner of FIG. 18.
[0046] FIG. 18C is an exploded bottom plan view of the universal outside corner joiner of FIG.
18.
[0047] FIG. 19 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of another trim joiner piece in the form of a universal inside corner joiner showing an interchangeable square corner. [0048] FIG. 19A is a top plan view of the universal outside corner joiner of FIG. 19.
[0049] FIG. 19B is an exploded rear perspective view of the universal outside corner joiner of FIG. 19.
[0050] FIG. 19C is an exploded bottom plan view of the universal outside corner joiner of FIG.
19.
[0051] FIG. 20 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of another trim joiner piece in the form of a universal inside corner joiner showing an interchangeable rounded corner.
[0052] FIG. 20A is a top plan view of the universal outside corner joiner of FIG. 20.
[0053] FIG. 20B is an exploded rear perspective view of the universal outside corner joiner of FIG. 20.
[0054] FIG. 20C is an exploded bottom plan view of the universal outside corner joiner of FIG.
20
[0055] FIG. 21 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of another trim joiner piece in the form of a universal inside corner joiner showing an interchangeable chamfered corner.
[0056] FIG. 21A is a top plan view of the universal outside corner joiner of FIG. 21.
[0057] FIG. 21B is an exploded rear perspective view of the universal outside corner joiner of FIG. 21.
[0058] FIG. 21C is an exploded bottom plan view of the universal outside corner joiner of FIG. 21
[0059] FIG. 22 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of another trim joiner piece in the form of a left base endcap as shown in FIG. 1.
[0060] FIG. 22A is a rear perspective view of the left base endcap of FIG. 22.
[0061] FIG. 22B is a bottom perspective view of the left base endcap of FIG. 22. [0062] FIG. 22C is an enlarged end elevation view of the left base endcap of FIG. 22.
[0063] FIG. 23 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of another trim joiner piece in the form of a right base endcap as shown in FIG. 1.
[0064] FIG. 23A is a rear perspective view of the left base endcap piece of FIG. 23.
[0065] FIG. 23B is a bottom perspective view of the left base endcap piece of FIG. 23.
[0066] FIG. 23C is an enlarged end elevation view of the left base endcap piece of FIG. 23.
[0067] FIG. 24 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of another trim joiner piece in the form of a left bottom door joiner as shown in FIG. 1.
[0068] FIG. 24A is a rear perspective view of the left bottom door joiner of FIG. 24.
[0069] FIG. 24B is a bottom perspective view of the left bottom door joiner of FIG. 24.
[0070] FIG. 25 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of another trim joiner piece in the form of a right bottom door joiner as shown in FIG. 1.
[0071] FIG. 25A is a rear perspective view of the right bottom door joiner of FIG. 25.
[0072] FIG. 25B is a bottom perspective view of the right bottom door joiner of FIG. 25.
[0073] FIG. 26 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of another trim joiner piece in the form of a window/door corner joiner as shown in FIG. 1.
[0074] FIG. 26A is a rear perspective view of the window/door corner joiner of FIG. 26.
[0075] FIG. 26B is an enlarged end elevation view of the window/door corner joiner of FIG. 26.
[0076] FIG. 27 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of another trim joiner piece in the form of a T-joiner as shown in FIGs. 3 and 4.
[0077] FIG. 27A is a rear perspective view of the T-joiner of FIG. 27.
[0078] FIG. 27B is an enlarged end elevation view of the T-joiner of FIG. 27. [0079] FIG. 28 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of another trim joiner piece in the form of cross-joiner as shown in FIGs. 4 and 5.
[0080] FIG. 28A is a rear perspective view of the cross-joiner of FIG. 28.
[0081] FIG. 28B is an enlarged end elevation view of the cross-joiner of FIG. 28.
[0082] FIG. 29 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of another trim joiner piece in the form of a 45 degree corner joiner as shown in FIG. 7.
[0083] FIG. 29A is a rear perspective view of the 45 degree corner joiner of FIG. 29.
[0084] FIG. 29B is a bottom perspective view of the 45 degree corner joiner of FIG. 29.
[0085] FIG. 29C is a front elevation view of the 45 degree corner joiner of FIG. 29.
DESCRIPTION
[0086] Referring now to the drawings wherein like reference numbers indicate the same or corresponding parts throughout the several views, FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a room 1 , having walls 2, a door 3, a window 4, and a floor 5. One embodiment of a modular trim system 100 is shown installed in the room 1, including linear trim pieces 200 and examples of several different trim joiner pieces 300. As shown in FIG. 1, the modular trim system 100 may be used to form baseboard trim 12, door trim 14 and window trim 16. Other examples of different types of trim are shown in FIGs. 3-8, each discussed separately below.
[0087] The modular trim system 100 includes an underlying track member 400 (discussed later) onto which the linear trim pieces 200 and trim joiner pieces 300 are mounted. FIG. 2 is the same room perspective view as shown in FIG. 1, but with the linear trim pieces 200 and trim joiner pieces 300 removed revealing the underlying track members 400. The underlying track members 400 may be secured to the walls 2, ceiling 6 or around the perimeter of doors 3 and windows 4 by any suitable means, including by staples or nails or adhesives or integral mounting structure (discussed later) to achieve the desired trim style or appearance when the linear trim pieces 200 and the different trim joiner pieces 300 are mounted thereon. [0088] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an example of the modular trim system 100 installed on a wall 2 with the linear trim pieces 200 and the trim joiner pieces 300 arranged to form Wainscoting trim 18. FIG. 4 is a plan view showing another example of the modular trim system 100 installed on a ceiling 6 with the linear trim pieces 200 and the trim joiner pieces 300 arranged to form coffered ceiling trim 20. FIG. 5 is an elevation view showing another example of the modular trim system 100 installed on a wall 2 with the linear trim pieces 200 and the trim joiner pieces 300 arranged to form a picture frame trim array 22. FIG. 6 is an elevation view of another example of the modular trim system 100 with the linear trim pieces 200 and the trim joiner pieces 300 arranged to form another style of window trim 24. FIG. 7 is an elevation view showing another example of the modular trim system 100 with the linear trim pieces 200 and the trim joiner pieces 300 arranged to form an octagonal picture frame trim or an octagonal window trim 26. FIG. 8 is an elevation view showing another example of the modular trim system 100 with the linear trim pieces 200 and the trim joiner pieces 300 arranged to form a hexagonal picture frame trim or a hexagonal window trim 28.
[0089] FIG. 9 is a rear perspective view of one embodiment of a linear trim piece 200. FIG. 9A is an end elevation view of the linear trim piece 200 of FIG. 9. The linear trim piece 200 has a longitudinal trim length LI of any desired length, an outward -facing surface 202 and a wall-facing surface 204 defining a trim depth Dl, and opposing first and second sides 206, 208 defining a trim width Wl. For simplicity, and as a non-limiting example, the linear trim piece 200 is illustrated as having a generally rectangular profile on its outward-facing surface 202. It should be appreciated, however, that the outward -facing surface 202 may have any desired profile, including any profile available for any conventional linear trim pieces sold at retailers or specialty millworks. Referring to FIG. 9A, the wall-facing surface 204 includes a backplane 212. The backplane 212 intersects with the first and second sides 206, 208 at respective first and second inner edges 214, 216. The wall-facing surface 204 also includes a recessed area 218 having a recessed surface 219 with a recessed width W2 that extends the longitudinal length LI of the linear trim piece 200. The recessed width W2 is less than the trim width WL The recessed surface 219 is recessed from the backplane 212 by a recessed depth D2. The recessed area 218 also includes spaced channels 220 have a channel width W3 dimensioned to frictionally receive the flanges 420 (FIGs. 10) of the track member 400 (discussed later). The channels 220 have a channel depth D3 extending from the recessed surface 219 toward the outward-facing surface 202. The sum of the channel depth D3 and the recessed depth D2 is less than the trim depth D1. The channels 220 may be inset by a distance W4 from the edges of the recessed surface 219 defining the recessed width W2 to receive the integral mounting structure 430 (FIG. IOC), discussed later in connection with the door/window trim illustrated in FIG. 12 A.
[0090] FIG. 9B is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a linear trim piece 200B which is substantially similar to the linear trim piece 200, except that the recessed area 218 includes only a single channel 220 disposed at approximately the midpoint of the trim width Wl. FIG. 9C is an end elevation view of the alternative linear trim piece embodiment of FIG. 9B. As described later, this single channel linear trim piece embodiment 200B would be used with the corresponding track member embodiment 400B (FIG. 10 A), discussed later, having a single flange 420 that aligns with and is received by the single channel 220 of the single channel trim piece embodiment 200B. Additionally, although not separately shown, the linear trim pieces 200 may include more than two channels 220 in the recessed area 218. Such multi-channel linear trim piece embodiments would be used with a corresponding track member embodiment having multiple flanges that align with and are received by the corresponding channels of such multi-channel linear trim piece. For ease of reference and to minimize redundancy throughout the remainder of this specification, it should be understood that any references to the linear trim pieces 200 includes any of the linear trim piece embodiments, including the two channel linear trim pieces 200, the single channel linear trim pieces 200B, or the multi-channel linear trim pieces.
[0091] The linear trim pieces 200 may be made of any suitable material, including, as non-limiting examples, medium density fiberboard (MDF), wood, plastic or other synthetic or composite materials. MDF has been found to be particularly suitable for use with the modular trim system 100 because it is relatively inexpensive, it is easy to work with and it produces clean cuts with little to no surface chipping. MDF also provides a smooth surface that receives and holds paint very well producing a superior, durable finish. The linear trim pieces 200 may also be produced by cutting the pieces to a desired length and routering out the recessed area 218 and channels 220 or by using molds or an extrusion process. The linear trim pieces 200 may be fabricated in any desired length, including into predetermined standard lengths to accommodate typical room dimensions for baseboards to minimize splicing. For example, some of the linear trim pieces to be used on a residential or commercial build site may be precut or produced in standard lengths for standard residential and commercial door heights (e.g., 80 inch door heights). Other linear trim pieces 200 may be precut or produced in the most common interior door widths (e.g., 32 inch door widths). As will be explained in more detail later, because the trim joiner pieces are fabricated in various configurations to achieve virtually any desired trim configuration, and because all the cut ends of the linear trim pieces 200 are concealed in a pocket behind the outward-facing surface 202 of the trim joiner pieces 300 (discussed later), there is sufficient tolerance to allow the linear trim pieces 200 to be moved linearly along the track members 400 and between the trim joiner pieces 300 without leaving any unsightly gaps between the ends of the linear trim pieces 200 and the trim joiner pieces 300. Additionally, because the linear trim pieces 200 and the trim joiner pieces 300 may be pre-painted or pre-finished before reaching the jobsite, and because of the generous tolerances provided by the pockets of the trim joiner pieces 300, there is typically little to no paint touchup required at the job site. Additionally, because of the generous tolerances provided by the modular trim system 100, and because most of the linear trim pieces require only straight cuts to length, the need for a skilled, professional, finish carpenter is minimized or avoided all together. Thus, the modular trim system is ideal for do-it-yourselfers and for less-skilled and less expensive laborers making the modular trim system 100 a very cost effective way to finish a residential or commercial building.
[0092] FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of a track member 400 having a longitudinal length L2 of any desired length. FIG. 10A is an enlarged end view of the track member 400 of FIG. 10. The track member 400 has an outward-facing track surface 402 and a wall-facing track surface 404. The track member 400 includes a web portion 406 and spaced flanges 420 extending in the direction of the outward-facing track surface 402 thereby defining a C-shaped configuration in cross-section. The track member 400 has a track width W5 that is less than the recessed width W2 of the linear trim piece 200. The web portion 406 has a web thickness T. The web thickness T is less than the recessed depth D2 of the linear trim piece 200. The flanges 420 have a flange depth D4, the flange depth D4 is less than the channel depth D3 of the linear trim piece 200. The flanges 420 having a flange width W6 dimensioned to be received within the channels 220 of the linear trim pieces 200 in a friction fit. Thus, it should be appreciated that the track member 400 is received within the recessed area 218 of the linear trim piece 200 such that the track member 400 is completely concealed by the linear trim piece 200. In the embodiment of FIG. 10A, the friction fit is provided by resilient fins 422 on the flanges 420. The resilient fins 422 are capable of flexibly compressing when the flanges 420 are received within the channels 220 of the linear trim pieces 200 and are oriented to grip at least one wall of the channel 220 to ensure that the inner edges 214, 216 of the linear trim pieces 200 stay flush against the wall or ceiling surface to avoid unsightly gaps between the linear trim pieces 200 and the wall or ceiling surfaces.
[0093] FIG. 10B illustrates an end view of another alternative track member embodiment 400B. The alternative track member embodiment 400B is substantially similar to the track member 400 except that the track member 400 includes only a single flange 420 configured to be received within the single channel 420 of the alternative single-channel linear trim piece embodiment 200B. In the embodiment of FIG. 10B, the flange is shown with resilient fins 422 on both sides of the flange 420, resulting in a flange width W6 that provides a friction fit with the channel 220 of the corresponding single-channel linear trim piece 200B. Although not separately shown, as previously discussed, the track member 400 may include more than two flanges 420. Such multi flange track members 400 would be used with a multi-channel linear trim piece having a corresponding number of channels, each of which would align with and receive one of the corresponding flanges of the multi-flange track member. For ease of reference and to minimize redundancy throughout the remainder of this specification, it should be understood that any references to the track member 400 includes any of the alternative track member embodiments, including the two flange track member 400, the single flange track member 400B, or the multi flange track member.
[0094] FIG. IOC is an enlarged end view of another alternative track member embodiment 400C. In this alternative track member embodiment 400C, an integral mounting structure 430 with a distal end 431 extend outward beyond the wall-facing surface 404. This distal end 431 is adapted to be received by a slot 433 that may be provided in a window or door casing 32 as best illustrated in FIG. 12A. The integral mounting structure 430 may include fins 432 or other gripping elements as describe later in connection with FIGs. 10D-100F for gripping the slot 433 in the casing 32. The integral mounting structure 430 is positioned to extend above the flange 420 on one side of the track member 400C by a distance W7 which is dimensioned to be received within the dimension W4 (FIG. 9A) of the recessed area 218 of the linear trim piece 200. In reference to FIG. 12A, it should be appreciated that the integral mounting structure 430 is located to take advantage of the slot 433 that may be provided in a window or door casing 32 such that when the integral mounting structure 430 is received in the slot 433, the track member 400C is properly positioned to receive the linear trim piece 200 and to provide the desired reveal 434 of a distance Y (for example a 1/4 inch reveal) around the edge of the casing 32. It should be appreciated that while the modular trim system 100 may be easily installed around a window or door casing using the regular track member 400 (i.e., without the integral mounting structure 430) such as shown in FIG. 12, the provision of the track member 400C with the integral mounting structure 430 is designed to eliminate the need for having to measure where to position the track member 400 to provide the desired reveal 434 around the window or door casing 32. Although not separately shown, it should be appreciated that the integral mounting structure 430 may be incorporated into the single-flange track member 400B or the previously described multi-flange track member.
[0095] FIGs. 10D-10F illustrate enlarged portions of the flange 420 and web 406 of alternative embodiments of track members 400D, 400E, 400F, each with alternative flange configurations. Each of the alternative embodiments 400D, 400E, 400F may be used with any of the embodiments of the track members 400, 400B, 400C or the previously described multi-flange track member. In FIG. 10D, the flange 420 is dimensioned to have a width W6 to provide a friction fit with the channel 220 of the linear trim piece 200 and the walls of the channels 320 of the trim joiner pieces 300 (discussed later) without incorporating resilient fins or other gripping elements. In FIG. 10E, the flange 420 incorporates ribs 423 as gripping elements. The ribs 423 are sized to provide a width W6 to frictionally engage the walls of the channels 220 of the linear trim piece 200 and the walls of the channels 320 of the trim joiner pieces 300. In FIG. 10F, the flange 420 includes a bulge 424 as a gripping element. The bulge 424 is sized to provide a width W6 to frictionally engage with one the walls of the channels 220 of the linear trim piece 200 and the walls of the channels 320 of the trim joiner pieces 300. Although not separately shown, the ribs in FIG. 10E may be incorporated on only one side of the flange 420. Additionally, the bulge 424 may be incorporated on both sides of the flange 420. In yet another alternative embodiment, the flange 420 may be made of compressible material that will expand to frictionally engage with the walls of the channel 220 of the linear trim piece 200 and the walls of the channels 320 of the trim joiner pieces 300. [0096] The track members 400 may be made of any suitable material and may be fabricated by any suitable means that allows the track member 400 to be produced in desired lengths and is relatively easily cut to length, while also being sufficiently rigid so as to remain securely attached to the wall or ceiling and sufficiently rigid to securely support the linear trim pieces 200 and trim joiner pieces 300 mounted thereto. As a non-limiting example, extruded polyvinyl chloride (PVC) has been found to be a particularly suitable material and fabrication method for producing the track members 400 of the embodiments shown in FIGs. 10 and 10A-10F.
[0097] The track members 400 may be attached to the walls or ceiling by any suitable means. FIGs. 11 and 12 show the track members 400 attached to the wall by staples or nails 34 which are commonly used on residential and commercial construction sites and applied with a pneumatic staple gun or nail gun. The staples or nails 34 are shown extending through the web portion 406 of the track member 400, through the dry wall 30 and into an underlying frame member 36 of a wall or ceiling. In alternative embodiments, the track members 400 may be attached with adhesive applied at the jobsite. In yet another alternative embodiment, the track members 400 may have a factory installed adhesive with a peel-away protective film (not shown) that is removed just prior to the track member 400 being adhesively attached to the wall or ceiling. In such an embodiment, the adhesive may be a type that has minimum bonding strength sufficient to temporarily support the track member 400 in position before being more securely attached with staples or nails. The adhesive may also be the type that permits the track member to be applied, then removed and reapplied as needed in cases where repositioning is required if the track member 400 was not properly positioned the first time. While the example of FIG. 11 shows the baseboard trim 12 with the linear trim piece 200 positioned above the floor to accommodate tile or carpeting, the track 400 may be positioned on the wall 2 such that the linear trim piece 200 is flush with the floor 5.
[0098] Examples of the various trim joiner pieces 300 of the modular trim system 100 are illustrated in FIGs. 13-29 and are described in more detail separately below. Similar to the linear trim pieces 200, each of the trim joiner pieces 300 has an outward- facing surface 302 and a wall facing surface 304 defining a trim joiner depth D5. For reasons explained below, the trim joiner depth D5 is greater than the trim depth D1 of the linear trim pieces 200. Each of the trim joiner pieces 300 also has a trim joiner width W8 that is greater than the width W1 of the linear trim piece 200. For simplicity, and as a non-limiting example, each of the various trim joiner pieces 300 in FIGs. 13-29 are illustrated as having a generally rectangular profile on the outward- facing surface 302. As with the linear trim pieces 200, however, the outward-facing surface 302 of the trim joiner pieces 300 may have any desired profile, including any profile available for any conventional trim pieces sold at retailers or specialty millworks. As shown in FIGs. 13-29, the wall-facing surface 304 of each of the different trim joiner pieces 300 includes a trim joiner backplane 312 with inner edges 314, 316, and a trim joiner recessed area 318. The trim joiner recessed area 318 has a trim joiner recessed surface 319 that is recessed from the trim joiner backplane 312 by a trim joiner recessed depth D7 that is substantially the same as the recessed depth D2 of the linear trim pieces 200. The trim joiner recessed area 318 has a trim joiner recessed width W10 that is substantially the same as the recessed width W2 of the linear trim piece 200. The trim joiner recessed area 318 includes spaced trim joiner channels 320 to frictionally receive the outwardly projecting flanges 420 of the track members 400. The trim joiner channels 320 have a trim joiner channel depth D8 that is substantially the same as the channel depth D3 of the channels 220 of the linear trim pieces 200. The trim joiner channels 320 have a trim joiner channel width Wl l substantially the same as the channel width W3 of the linear trim pieces 200 which frictionally fit the flanges 420 of the track members 400. As discussed in further detail below, each trim joiner piece 300 also includes at least one pocket 330 to receive at least one end of a linear trim piece 200. As represented in each of the FIGs. 13-29, each pocket 330 has a pocket width W9 or W12 depending on whether the trim joiner piece abuts the floor 5 (see FIGs. 13-25) or whether the trim joiner piece is mounted where both the first and second sides are visible (see e.g., FIGs. 24-29). In either instance, the pocket width W9 or W12 is slightly greater than the trim width W1 of the linear trim piece 200. The pocket depth D6 measured from the trim joiner backplane 312 is also slightly greater than the trim depth D1 of the linear trim piece 200. Each pocket 330 has a pocket length L3 to receive a length of one end of the linear trim piece 200. As such, it should be appreciated that the pocket 330 also has a pocket inner profile 332 corresponding to the outward -facing surface 202 of the linear trim piece 200 such that the linear trim piece matingly seats within the pocket 330. By way of a non-limiting example, it has been found that a pocket length L3 of about 1/2 inch is suitable for receiving one end of the linear trim piece 200 while providing a reasonable tolerance when positioning the ends of the linear trim pieces 200 longitudinally along the track member 400 and between any of the various trim joiner pieces 300. [0099] As with the linear trim pieces 200, the trim joiner pieces 300 may be made of any suitable material, including, as non-limiting examples, medium density fiberboard (MDF), wood, plastic or other synthetic or composite materials. For the reasons previously discussed with respect to the linear trim pieces 200, MDF has been found to be particularly suitable for the trim joiner pieces 300 because it is relatively inexpensive, it easy to work with and it produces clean cuts with little to no surface chipping. The trim joiner pieces 300 may also be produced using molds or an extrusion process.
[0100] Each of the examples of trim joiner pieces 300 are hereinafter described. Although each of the different trim joiner pieces 300 are shown with two spaced channels 320 for receiving the two spaced flanges 420 of the embodiment of the track member 400, it should be appreciated that if the single-flange track member embodiment 400B is utilized, then the trim joiner pieces 300 would likewise include only one channel 320 that aligns with and receives the single flange 420 of the single-flange track member embodiment 400A. Likewise, if the track member 400 includes more than two flanges 420, the trim joiner pieces 300 would include the same number of corresponding channels 320 to align with and receive the multiple flanges 420 of such multi-flange track member.
[0101] FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a trim joiner piece 300 in the form of a linear trim joiner 300A for use in joining two linear trim pieces 200, such as two baseboard trim pieces, as shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 13 A is a rear perspective view and FIG. 13B is a bottom perspective view of the linear trim joiner 300A of FIG. 13. The linear trim joiner 300A includes pockets 330-1, 330-2 to receive the ends of the linear trim pieces 200 being joined in parallel alignment in a common plane. The linear trim joiner 300A includes the recessed area 318 to receive the web portion 406 of the track members 400. The channels 320 within the trim joiner recessed area 318 align with and frictionally receive the flanges 420 of the track members 400 and align with the channels 220 of the linear trim pieces 200 received within the pockets 330-1, 330- 2
[0102] FIG. 14 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a trim joiner piece 300 in the form of a an outside square corner joiner 300B for use in joining two linear trim pieces 200, such as two baseboard trim pieces terminating at the ends of the walls intersecting at an outside corner as shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 14A is a rear perspective view and FIG. 14B is a bottom perspective view of the outside square corner joiner 300B of FIG. 14. The outside square corner joiner 300B includes the pockets 330-1, 330-2 to receive the ends of the linear trim pieces 200 to be joined terminating at the outside corner of the adjoining walls. The outside square corner joiner 300B includes the trim joiner recessed area 318 to receive the web portion 406 of the track members 400. The channels 320 within the trim joiner recessed area 318 align with and frictionally receive the flanges 420 of the track members 400 and align with the channels 220 of the linear trim pieces 200 received within the pockets 330-1, 330-2.
[0103] FIG. 15 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a trim joiner piece 300 in the form of an inside square corner joiner 300C for use in joining two linear trim pieces 200, such as two baseboard trim pieces terminating at the ends of the walls intersecting at an inside corner as shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 15A is a rear perspective view and FIG. 15B is a bottom perspective view of the inside square corner joiner 300C of FIG. 15. The inside square corner joiner 300C includes pockets 330-1, 330-2 to receive the ends of the linear trim pieces 200 to be joined terminating at the inside corner of the adjoining walls. The inside square corner joiner 300C includes the trim joiner recessed area 318 to receive the web portion 406 of the track members 400. The channels 320 within the trim joiner recessed area 318 align with and frictionally receive the flanges 420 of the track members 400 and align with the channels 220 of the linear trim pieces 200 received within the pockets 330-1, 330-2.
[0104] FIG. 16 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a trim joiner piece 300 in the form of a universal outside corner joiner 300D-S with an interchangeable square corner piece 352S, for use in joining two linear trim pieces 200, such as two baseboard trim pieces at an outside corner of two intersecting walls. FIG. 16A is a top plan view of the universal outside corner joiner 300D with the interchangeable square corner piece 352S. FIG. 16B is an exploded rear perspective view of the universal outside corner joiner 300D-S with the interchangeable square corner piece 352S and FIG. 16C is an exploded bottom plan view of the universal outside corner joiner 300D-S with the interchangeable square corner piece 352S.
[0105] FIG. 17 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a trim joiner piece 300 in the form of a universal outside corner joiner 300D-R with an interchangeable round corner piece 352R, for use in joining two linear trim pieces 200, such as two baseboard trim pieces at an outside corner of two intersecting walls. FIG. 17A is a top plan view of the universal outside corner joiner 300D- R with the interchangeable round corner piece 352R. FIG. 17B is an exploded rear perspective view of the universal outside corner joiner 300D-R with the interchangeable round corner piece 352R and FIG. 17C is an exploded bottom plan view of the universal outside corner joiner 300D- R with the interchangeable round corner piece 352R.
[0106] FIG. 18 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a trim joiner piece 300 in the form of a universal outside corner joiner 300D with an interchangeable chamfered corner piece 300D- C, for use in joining two linear trim pieces 200, such as two baseboard trim pieces at an outside corner of two intersecting walls. FIG. 18A is a top plan view of the universal outside corner joiner 300D with the interchangeable chamfered corner piece 300D-C. FIG. 18B is an exploded rear perspective view of the universal outside corner joiner 300D with the interchangeable chamfered corner piece 300D-C and FIG. 18C is an exploded bottom plan view of the universal outside corner joiner 300D with the interchangeable chamfered corner piece 300D-C.
[0107] It should be appreciated that in each of the universal outside corner joiners 300D-S, 300D- R, 300D-C depicted in FIGs. 16-18, the universal outside corner joiner 300D-S, 300D-R, 300D-C comprises two mirror image stub pieces 350, 351 such that the only difference in the embodiments are the interchangeable corner pieces 352S, 352R, 352C. Each of the interchangeable corner pieces 352S, 352R, 352C include outwardly projecting tabs 353. Each of the two mirror image stub pieces 350, 351 includes two pockets 330-1, 330-2 for receiving an end of the linear trim piece 200 and one of the outwardly projecting tabs 353 of the respective interchangeable corner pieces 352S, 352R, 352C. The pocket 330-1, 330-2 receiving the tab 353 has a depth D9 and a length L4. The other pocket 330-1, 330-2 receiving the end of the linear trim piece 200 has a depth D6 and a length L3
[0108] FIG. 19 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a trim joiner piece 300 in the form of a universal inside corner joiner 300E-S with an interchangeable square corner piece 354S, for use in joining two linear trim pieces 200, such as two baseboard trim pieces at an inside corner of two intersecting walls. FIG. 19A is a top plan view of the universal inside corner joiner 300E-S with the interchangeable square corner piece 354S. FIG. 19B is an exploded rear perspective view of the universal inside corner joiner 300E-S with the interchangeable square corner piece 354S and FIG. 19C is an exploded bottom plan view of the universal inside corner joiner 300E-S with the interchangeable square corner piece 354S.
[0109] FIG. 20 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a trim joiner piece 300 in the form of a universal inside corner joiner 300E-R with an interchangeable round corner piece 354R, for use in joining two linear trim pieces 200, such as two baseboard trim pieces at an inside corner of two intersecting walls. FIG. 20A is a top plan view of the universal outside corner joiner 300E-R with the interchangeable round corner piece 354R. FIG. 20B is an exploded rear perspective view of the universal inside corner joiner 300E-R with the interchangeable round corner piece 354R and FIG. 20C is an exploded bottom plan view of the universal inside corner joiner 300E-R with the interchangeable round corner piece 354R.
[0110] FIG. 21 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a trim joiner piece 300 in the form of a universal inside corner joiner 300E-C with an interchangeable chamfered corner piece 354C, for use in joining two linear trim pieces 200, such as two baseboard trim pieces at an outside corner of two intersecting walls. FIG. 21 A is a top plan view of the universal inside corner joiner 300E- C with the interchangeable chamfered corner piece 354C. FIG. 21B is an exploded rear perspective view of the universal inside corner joiner 300E-C with the interchangeable chamfered corner piece 354C and FIG. 21 C is an exploded bottom plan view of the universal inside corner joiner 300E-C with the interchangeable chamfered corner piece 354C.
[0111] It should be appreciated that in each of the universal inside corner joiners 300E depicted in FIGs. 19-21, the universal inside corner joiner 300E comprises two mirror image stub pieces 350, 351 such that the only difference in the embodiments are the interchangeable corner pieces 354S, 354R, 354C. Each of the two mirror image stub pieces 350, 351 includes two pockets 330-1, 330- 2 for receiving an end of the linear trim piece 200 and one of the outwardly projecting tabs 355 of the respective interchangeable corner pieces 352S, 352R, 352C. The pocket 330-1, 330-2 receiving the tab 355 has a depth D9 and a length L4. The other pocket 330-1, 330-2 receiving the end of the linear trim piece 200 has a depth D6 and a length L3.
[0112] FIG. 22 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a trim joiner piece 300 in the form of a left endcap piece 3 OOF for use in terminating a linear trim piece 200 such as a baseboard trim piece, as shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 22 A is a rear perspective view, FIG. 22B is a bottom perspective view and FIG. 22C is an enlarged end elevation view of the left endcap piece 3 OOF of FIG. 22. The left endcap piece 3 OOF includes a pocket 330 to receive the end of the linear trim piece 200 being terminated by the left endcap piece 300F. The left end cap piece 300F includes the trim joiner recessed area 318 to receive the web portion 406 of the track member 400. The channels 320 within the trim joiner recessed area 318 align with the flanges 420 of the track member 400 and with the channels 220 of the linear trim piece 200 received within the pocket 330.
[0113] FIG. 23 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a trim joiner piece 300 in the form of a right endcap piece 300G for use in terminating a linear trim piece 200 such as a baseboard trim piece, as shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 23 A is a rear perspective view, FIG. 23B is a bottom perspective view and FIG 23C is an end elevation view of the right endcap piece 300G of FIG. 23. The right endcap piece 300G includes a pocket 330 to receive the end of the linear trim piece 200 being terminated by the right endcap piece 300G. The right end cap piece 300G includes the trim joiner recessed area 318 to receive the web portion 406 of the track member 400. The channels 320 within the trim joiner recessed area 318 align with the flanges 420 of the track member 400 and with the channels 220 of the linear trim piece 200 received within the pocket 330.
[0114] FIG. 24 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a trim joiner piece 300 in the form of a left bottom door corner piece 300H for use in joining the linear trim pieces 200 on a left side of a door frame, including a baseboard and the left door trim as shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 24A is a rear perspective view and FIG. 24B is a bottom perspective view of the left bottom door corner piece 300H of FIG. 24. The left bottom door corner piece 300H includes first and second pockets 330-1, 330-2. The first pocket 330-1 receives the end of the linear trim piece 200 comprising the baseboard and the second pocket 330-2 receives the linear trim piece 200 comprising the left door trim piece. The left bottom door corner piece 300H includes the trim joiner recessed area 318 to receive the web portion 406 of the intersecting track members 400 for the door trim and for the baseboard . The channels 320 within the trim joiner recessed area 318 align with the flanges 420 of the track members 400 for the left door trim and for the baseboard and with the channels 220 of the linear trim pieces 200 received within the first and second pockets 330-1, 330-2. It should be appreciated that the first and second pockets, 330-1, 330-2 are in a common plane perpendicular to one another. [0115] FIG. 25 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a trim joiner piece 300 in the form of a right bottom door corner piece 3001 for use in joining the linear trim pieces 200 on a right side of a door frame trim, including a baseboard and the right door trim as shown in FIG. 1. The right bottom door corner piece 3001 is a mirror image of the left bottom door corner piece 300H. FIG. 25A is a rear perspective view and FIG. 25B is a bottom perspective view of the right bottom door corner piece 3001 of FIG. 25. The right bottom door corner piece 3001 includes first and second pockets 330-1, 330-2. The first pocket 330-1 receives the end of the linear trim piece 200 comprising the baseboard and the second pocket 330-2 receives the linear trim piece 200 comprising the right door trim piece. The right bottom door corner piece 3001 includes the trim joiner recessed area 318 to receive the web portion 406 of the intersecting track members 400 for the door trim and for the baseboard. The channels 320 within the trim joiner recessed area 318 align with the flanges 420 of the track members 400 for the right door trim and for the baseboard and with the channels 220 of the linear trim pieces 200 received within the first and second pockets 330-1, 330-2.
[0116] FIG. 26 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a trim joiner piece 300 in the form of a door/window trim corner piece 300J for use in joining the linear trim pieces 200 at the upper corners of door trim or at any of the corners of window trim as shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 26A is a rear perspective view, FIG. 26B is an end elevation view of the door/window trim corner piece 300J of FIG. 26. The door/window trim corner piece 300J includes first and second pockets 330- 1, 330-2 for the intersecting door/window trim pieces being joined. The door/window trim corner piece 300J includes the trim joiner recessed area 318 to receive the web portion 406 of the track members 400 for the intersecting door/window trim. The channels 320 within the trim joiner recessed area 318 align with the flanges 420 of the track members 400 for the intersecting door/window trim and with the channels 220 of the linear trim pieces 200 received with the first and second pockets 330-1 , 330-2. It should be appreciated that the trim corner piece 300T shown in FIG. 3 would be substantially the same as the door/window trim corner piece 300J except that the pocket 330-1, 330-2 oriented toward the floor would extend to the floor resulting in a pocket width W9 (see for example FIG. 13C) instead of the pocket width W12 as shown in FIG. 26B. It should be appreciated that the first and second pockets, 330-1, 330-2 are in a common plane perpendicular to one another. [0117] FIG. 27 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a trim joiner piece 300 in the form of a T-joiner 300K for use in joining three intersecting linear trim pieces 200 as shown in FIGs. 3- 5. FIG. 27A is a rear perspective view and FIG. 27B is a bottom perspective view of the T-joiner 300K ofFIG. 27. The T-joiner 300K includes three pockets 330-1, 330-2, 330-3 each for receiving one of the three linear trim pieces 200 being joined. The T-joiner 300K includes the trim joiner recessed area 318 to receive the web portion 406 of the track members 400 for the intersecting linear trim pieces 200. The channels 320 within the trim joiner recessed area 318 align with the flanges 420 of the intersecting track members 400 and with the channels 220 of the linear trim pieces 200 received with the pockets 330-1, 330-2, 330-3. It should be appreciated that the T- joiner 330K' shown in FIGs. 3 and 5 would be substantially the same as the T-joiner 300K except that the pocket 330-1, 330-3 would extend to the floor resulting in a pocket width W9 (see for example FIG. 13C) instead of the pocket width W12 as shown in FIG. 27B. It should be appreciated that the first, second and third pockets, 330-1, 330-2, 330-3 are in a common plane with the first and third pockets 330-1, 330-3 in parallel alignment and the second pocket 330-2 perpendicular to the first and third pockets 330-1, 330-3.
[0118] FIG. 28 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a trim joiner piece 300 in the form of a cross-joiner 300L for use in joining the four intersecting linear trim pieces 200 as shown in FIGs. 4-5. FIG. 28A is a rear perspective view, FIG. 28B is a bottom perspective view and FIG. 28C is an end elevation view of the cross-joiner 300L of FIG. 28. The cross-joiner 300L includes four pockets 330-1, 330-2, 330-3, 330-4 each for receiving one of the four linear trim pieces 200 being joined. The cross-joiner 300L includes the trim joiner recessed area 318 to receive the web portion 406 of the track members 400 for the intersecting linear trim pieces 200. The channels 320 within the trim joiner recessed area 318 align with the flanges 420 of the intersecting track members 400 and with the channels 220 of the linear trim pieces 200 received with the pockets 330-1, 330-2, 330-3, 330-4. It should be appreciated that the first, second, third and fourth pockets, 330-1, 330-2, 330-3, 330-4 are in a common plane with the first and third pockets 330-1, 330-3 in parallel alignment and the second and fourth pocket 330-2, 330-4 in parallel alignment but perpendicular to the first and third pockets 330-1, 330-3.
[0119] FIG. 29 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a trim joiner piece 300 in the form of 45 degree joiner 300M for use in joining two intersecting linear trim pieces 200 intersecting at an inside angle of 135 degrees or an outside angle of 225 degrees as shown in FIG. 7. FIG. 29 A is a rear perspective view, FIG. 29B is a bottom perspective view and FIG. 29C is a front elevation view of the 45 degree joiner 300M of FIG. 29. The 45 degree joiner 300M also includes two pockets 330-1 , 330-2 each for receiving one of the two intersecting linear trim pieces 200. The 45 degree joiner 300M includes the trim joiner recessed area 318 to receive the web portion 406 of the track members 400 for the intersecting linear trim pieces 200. The channels 320 within the trim joiner recessed area 318 align with the flanges 420 of the intersecting track members 400 and with the channels 220 of the linear trim pieces 200 received with the pockets 330-1, 330-2.
[0120] Although not separately illustrated, an embodiment of a trim joiner piece 300 in the form of 60 degree joiner 300N for use in joining two intersecting linear trim pieces 200 intersecting at an inside angle of 120 degrees or an outside angle of 240 degrees as shown in FIG. 8. The 60 degree joiner 300N would be substantially the same as the 45 degree joiner 300M, but forming a 60 degree angle instead of a 45 degree angle. It should be appreciated that other trim joiner pieces 300 may be created forming other interior angles, for example, to produce pentagonal, or heptagonal window or picture frames, or any other multi-sided window or picture frames.
[0121] In addition to the various advantages of the modular trim system 100 described above, it should also be appreciated that the track members 400 are sufficiently flexible along their length L2 to accommodate bowed or uneven wall or ceiling surfaces. Likewise, because of the friction fit between the track member flanges 420 and channels 220, 320 in the linear trim pieces 200 and trim joiner pieces 300, the linear trim pieces 200 and trim joiner pieces 300 are able to move laterally (i.e., in and out) with respect to the track member 400 to accommodate bowed or uneven wall or ceiling surface, thus providing an aesthetically pleasing trim finish that remains flush against the wall or ceiling surface and avoiding or minimizing unsightly gaps between the trim pieces and the wall or ceiling.
[0122] It should also be appreciated that the modular trim system 100 described herein can be used to achieve various types of wall and ceiling trim types as illustrated in FIGs. 1 - 8 with a minimum number of pieces.
[0123] While the trim joiner pieces 300A-300N are exemplary of different types of trim joiner pieces, the modular trim system 100 should not be construed as being limited to the specific examples of the trim joiner pieces 300A-300N or to the example of the linear trim pieces 200 or track members 400 described and illustrated herein. Rather, the foregoing description and drawings are intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Various modifications to the embodiments and to the general principles and features of the modular trim system described herein will be apparent to those of skill in the art. Thus, the disclosure should be accorded the widest scope consistent with the appended claims and the full scope of the equivalents to which such claims are entitled.