Concealed handrail

Abstract

Elongate cores for concealed handrails are disclosed. The elongate core is secured to a support structure and comprises a base panel, a front panel extending upward from a front end of the base panel, and a return panel extending rearward from an upper end of the front panel. The return panel has a depth smaller than that of the elongate core. An inner surface of the return panel defines a gripping surface engageable by user fingers. At least a portion of an outer surface of the front panel defines a front cladding surface for supporting wall cladding. When the elongate core is secured to the support structure, the front cladding surface of the elongate core is coplanar with an adjacent front cladding surface of the support structure thereby allowing a continuous application of wall cladding over the two co-planar surfaces without interruption.

Description

CONCEALED HANDRAILCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of United States Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 660,861 filed June 17, 2024, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.FIELD

[0002] The teaching disclosed herein relates to apparatuses and kits for concealed handrails.INTRODUCTION

[0003] U.S. Patent No. 9,003,576 B2 (Rubin et al.) purports to disclose grab rail assemblies for mounting on walls, such as the tiled walls of a showering area or a mud room. The assemblies are designed to aesthetically meld with the surrounding environment by having a front tile mounting panel. They may also be provided with a drainage system to avoid water collecting long term within the rail when the rail is used in a shower.

[0004] Chinese Patent Publication No. 112211358 A (Hu et al.) purports to disclose a ceramic tile wall surface with an integrated hidden guide handrail and a construction method thereof. The ceramic tile wall integrated hidden guide handrail includes a structural wall provided with a groove. The handrail is arranged in the groove of the structural wall body and the handrail is flush with the structural wall body. An induction type lamp strip is arranged on the handrail. The handrail can help the old with mobility impairment, ensuring safety while walking and preventing falls. The induction type lamp strip is arranged so that the old can walk along with the handrail at night. The danger of colliding with the handrail within the groove of the structural wall body as well as the negative psychological suggestion of the handrail to the old are avoided.SUMMARY

[0005] The following summary is intended to introduce the reader to various aspects of the applicant’s teaching, but not to define any invention.

[0006] In one aspect, in a combination, a finished wall assembly and concealed handrail is disclosed. The finished wall assembly comprises a support structure having a support structure front surface. The finished wall assembly further comprises a wall cladding lower portion affixed to the support structure front surface. The concealed handrail comprises an elongate core secured to the support structure. The elongate core comprises a base panel extending axially along a length of the core and laterally between a base panel front end and a base panel rear end. The base panel has a base panel outer surface and a base panel inner surface opposite the base panel outer surface. The elongate core further comprises a front panel having a front panel lower end extending axially along the length of the core and joined to the base panel inner surface proximate the base panel front end. The front panel extends upward from the front panel lower end to a front panel upper end. The front panel has a front panel outer surface directed away from the base panel rear end and a front panel inner surface opposite the front panel outer surface. At least a portion of the front panel outer surface defines a front cladding surface. The elongate core further comprises a return panel having a return panel front end extending axially along the length of the core and joined to the front panel inner surface proximate the front panel upper end. The return panel extends rearward from the return panel front end to a return panel rear end. The return panel has a return panel inner surface directed toward the base panel inner surface and a return panel outer surface opposite the return panel inner surface. At least a portion of the return panel inner surface defines a gripping surface engageable by user fingers. The return panel has a return panel depth extending from the return panel front end to the return panel rear end. The return panel depth is smaller than a depth of the elongate core. The concealed handrail further comprises a wall cladding front portion affixed to the front cladding surface. The wall cladding lower and front portions form a continuous cladded wall surface.

[0007] In some examples, the front cladding surface is oriented generally perpendicular to the base panel outer surface.

[0008] In some examples, at least a portion of the return panel outer surface defines an upper cladding surface, and a wall cladding upper portion is affixed to the upper cladding surface of the return panel.

[0009] In some examples, each of the front cladding surface and upper cladding surface comprise a bonding interface to promote bonding with a respective one of the wall cladding front portion and the wall cladding upper portion.

[0010] In some examples, the elongated core further comprises a protective lip projecting upward from the return panel outer surface proximate the return panel rear end, and the protective lip has a lip outer surface directed toward the front panel and abutting a rear edge of the wall cladding upper portion.

[0011] In some examples, the support structure front surface comprises a wall board to promote bonding with the wall cladding lower portion.

[0012] In some examples, the wall cladding lower portion is bonded to an outer surface of the wall board, and the front cladding surface is co-planar with the outer surface of the wall board.

[0013] In some examples, the support structure has a support structure upper surface that is oriented generally perpendicular to the support structure front surface, and at least a portion of the base panel outer surface bears against the support structure upper surface.

[0014] In some examples, the base panel includes a plurality of fastener apertures for securing the elongate core to the support structure, and adjacent ones of the plurality of fastener apertures are axially spaced apart along the base panel.

[0015] In some examples, the support structure includes a plurality of spaced apart vertical wall studs, and both ends of the elongate core comprise a securement bracket to secure the elongate core to a respective one of the vertical wall studs.

[0016] In some examples, the base panel, the front panel and the return panel are of unitary construction.

[0017] In some examples, the elongate core comprises at least one drainage opening for draining liquid from the concealed handrail, and each of the at least one drainage opening is spaced rearwardly of the front panel outer surface.

[0018] In another aspect, an elongate core for a concealed handrail is disclosed. The elongate core is securable to a support structure and comprises a base panel extending axially along a length of the core and laterally between a base panel front end and a base panel rear end. The base panel has a base panel outer surface and a base panel inner surface opposite the base panel outer surface. The elongate core further comprises a front panel having a front panel lower end extending axially along the length of the core and joined to the base panel inner surface proximate the base panel front end. The front panel extends upward from the front panel lower end to a front panel upper end. The front panel has a front panel outer surface directed away from the base panel rear end and a front panel inner surface opposite the front panel outer surface. At least a portion of the front panel outer surface defines a front cladding surface for supporting wall cladding. The elongate core further comprises a return panel having a return panel front end extending axially along the length of the core and joined to the front panel inner surface proximate the front panel upper end. The return panel extends rearward from the return panel front end to a return panel rear end. The return panel has a return panel inner surface directed toward the base panel inner surface and a return panel outer surface opposite the return panel inner surface. At least a portion of the return panel inner surface defines a gripping surface engageable by user fingers. The return panel has a return panel depth extending from the return panel front end to the return panel rear end. The return panel depth is smaller than a depth of the elongate core. The elongate core further comprises one or more drainage openings for draining liquid from the elongate core in use. Each of the one or more drainage openings is spaced rearwardly from the front panel outer surface.

[0019] In some examples, the elongate core further comprises a protective lip projecting forward from the front panel outer surface at the front panel upper end, the protective lip having a lip outer surface directed toward the base panel for abutting an upper edge of the wall cladding.

[0020] In some examples, at least a portion of the return panel outer surface defines an upper cladding surface for supporting additional wall cladding.

[0021] In some examples, the elongate core further comprises a protective lip projecting upward from the return panel outer surface proximate the return panel rear end, and the protective lip has a lip outer surface directed toward the front panel for abutting a rear edge of the additional wall cladding.

[0022] In some examples, the upper cladding surface comprises a bonding interface to promote bonding with the additional wall cladding.

[0023] In some examples, the front cladding surface comprises a bonding interface to promote bonding with the wall cladding.

[0024] In some examples, the front panel and the return panel are aluminum, and the bonding interface comprises a bonding material that adheres to cladding adhesive.

[0025] In some examples, the elongate core further comprises a rear panel having a rear panel lower end extending axially along the length of the core and joined to the base panel inner surface, the rear panel extends upward from the rear panel lower end to a rear panel upper end, and at least a lower portion of the front and rear panels laterally enclose a liquid collection reservoir in fluid communication with the one or more drainage openings.

[0026] In some examples, the rear panel has a rear panel inner surface directed toward the base panel front end and a rear panel outer surface opposite the rear panel inner surface, at least a portion of the rear panel outer surface provides a bearing surface for bearing against a front surface of the support structure, and the rear panel includes a plurality of securement apertures for securing the elongate core to the support structure.

[0027] In some examples, the front cladding surface is generally planar and oriented generally perpendicular to the base panel outer surface.

[0028] In some examples, at least a portion of the base panel outer surface provides a bearing surface for bearing against an upper surface of the support structure.

[0029] In some examples, the base panel includes a plurality of fastener apertures for securing the elongate core to the support structure.

[0030] In some examples, the elongate core further comprises a securement bracket at both ends thereof for securing the elongate core to a vertically oriented portion of the support structure.

[0031] In some examples, the base panel, the front panel, and the return panel are of unitary construction.

[0032] In some examples, the one or more drainage openings are formed in the base panel.

[0033] In another aspect, an elongate core for a concealed handrail is disclosed. The elongate core is securable to a support structure and comprises a base panel extending axially along a length of the core and laterally between a base panel front end and a base panel rear end. The base panel has a base panel outer surface and a base panel inner surface opposite the base panel outer surface. The elongate core further comprises a front panel having a front panel lower end extending axially along the length of the core and joined to the base panel inner surface proximate the base panel front end. The front panel extends upward from the front panel lower end to a front panel upper end. The front panel has a front panel outer surface directed away from the base panel rear end and a front panel inner surface opposite the front panel outer surface. At least a portion of the front panel outer surface defines a front cladding surface for supporting wall cladding. The elongate core further comprises an upper cladding surface for supporting additional wall cladding. The upper cladding surface is oriented generally perpendicular to the front cladding surface. The elongate core further comprises a protective lip projecting upward from the upper cladding surface. The protective lip has a lip innersurface directed toward the base panel rear end and a lip outer surface opposite the lip inner surface for abutting a rear edge of the additional wall cladding.

[0034] In some examples, the front cladding surface is generally planar and oriented generally perpendicular to the base panel outer surface.

[0035] In some examples, the front panel has a front panel top surface at the front panel upper end, and the upper cladding surface comprises the front panel top surface.

[0036] In some examples, the lip inner surface is co-planar with the front panel inner surface and collectively define a continuous gripping surface.

[0037] In some examples, the elongate core further comprises a return panel having a return panel front end extending axially along the length of the core and joined to the front panel inner surface proximate the front panel upper end, the return panel extends rearward from the return panel front end to a return panel rear end, the return panel has a return panel inner surface directed toward the base panel inner surface and a return panel outer surface opposite the return panel inner surface, and the upper cladding surface comprises the return panel outer surface.

[0038] In some examples, at least a portion of the return panel inner surface defines a gripping surface engageable by user fingers.

[0039] In some examples, the protective lip projects upward from the return panel outer surface proximate the return panel rear end.

[0040] In some examples, the base panel, the front panel, and the protective lip are of unitary construction.

[0041] In some examples, at least a portion of the base panel outer surface provides a bearing surface for bearing against an upper surface of the support structure and the base panel includes a plurality of fastener apertures for securing the elongate core to the support structure.

[0042] In some examples, the elongate core further comprises a securement bracket at both ends thereof for securing the elongate core to a vertically oriented portion of the support structure.

[0043] Other aspects and features of the teachings disclosed herein will become apparent to those ordinarily skilled in the art, upon review of the following description of the specific examples of the present disclosure.DRAWINGS

[0044] For a better understanding of the described examples and to show more clearly how they may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example, to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0045] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an example of a concealed handrail integrated into a finished wall assembly according to aspects of the teaching disclosed herein, and in which the concealed handrail is oriented horizontally;

[0046] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the concealed handrail of Figure 1 taken along line 2-2;

[0047] Figure 3 is a top view of the concealed handrail taken along arrow 3 of Figure 2;

[0048] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of another concealed handrail according to aspects of the teaching disclosed herein;

[0049] Figure 5 is a perspective view of an elongate core used in the concealed handrail shown in Figure 2;

[0050] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the elongate core of Figure 5 taken along line 6-6;

[0051] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of another elongate core according to aspects of the teaching disclosed herein;

[0052] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of another elongate core according to aspects of the teaching disclosed herein;

[0053] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of another elongate core according to aspects of the teaching disclosed herein;

[0054] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of another elongate core according to aspects of the teaching disclosed herein;

[0055] Figure 11 is a perspective view of another example of a concealed handrail integrated into a finished wall assembly according to aspects of the teaching disclosed herein, and in which the concealed handrail is oriented vertically;

[0056] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of the concealed handrail of Figure 11 taken along line 12-12;

[0057] Figure 13 is a schematic illustration of an example kit for a concealed handrail;

[0058] Figure 14 is a partial cross-sectional view of a concealed handrail with a shelf attached to the elongate core according to aspects of the teaching disclosed herein;

[0059] Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view of another elongate core according to aspects of the teaching disclosed herein;

[0060] Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of another elongate core according to aspects of the teaching disclosed herein;

[0061] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of another concealed handrail according to aspects of the teaching disclosed herein;

[0062] Figure 18 is a perspective view of an elongate core used in the concealed handrail of Figure 17;

[0063] Figure 19 is a perspective view of another elongate core according to aspects of the teaching disclosed herein;

[0064] Figure 20 is a perspective view of another example of a concealed handrail integrated into a finished wall assembly according to aspects of the teaching disclosed herein;

[0065] Figure 21 is a cross-sectional view of the concealed handrail of Figure 20 taken along line 21 -21 ;

[0066] Figure 22 is a perspective view of another example of a concealed handrail integrated into a finished wall assembly according to aspects of the teaching disclosed herein; and

[0067] Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view of the concealed handrail of Figure 22 taken along line 23-23.

[0068] The drawings included herewith are for illustrating various examples of apparatuses and methods of the teaching of the present specification and are not intended to limit the scope of what is taught in any way.DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EXAMPLES

[0069] Various apparatuses or processes will be described below to provide an example of each claimed invention. No example described below limits any claimed invention and any claimed invention may cover processes or apparatuses that differ from those described below. Further, it will be understood that the features of the various examples described and illustrated herein may be combined in any suitable manner, and such combinations are within the scope of the present disclosure. The claimed inventions are not limited to apparatuses or processes having all of the features of any one apparatus or process described below or to features common to multiple or all of the apparatuses described below. It is possible that an apparatus or process described below is not an example of any claimed invention. Any invention disclosed in an apparatus or process described below that is not claimed in this document may be the subject matter of another protective instrument, for example, a continuing patent application, and the applicants, inventors, or owners do not intend to abandon, disclaim, or dedicate to the public any such invention by its disclosure in this document.

[0070] Handrails are mounted on walls to assist those with mobility issues and are commonly found in the bathroom (e.g., within or near a bathtub, shower, or toilet). The presence of handrails is often stigmatized. Homeowners generally do not want visitors toknow, or even remind themselves, that they require handrails to assist with mobility and / or balance. This stigmatization leads those who would benefit from using handrails to delay or even forego installing them. Due to this resistance, it is common for handrails to be installed only after the first serious fall or injury occurs. It is also common for handrails to be removed by their users when selling their home, for example, leaving the new occupants to go through the same cycle.

[0071] Referring to Figures 1 -3, a handrail 100 in accordance with aspects of the teaching disclosed herein includes concealment features that facilitate integrating the handrail with a finished wall assembly 102 so that by blending in with the finished wall assembly, the presence of the handrail is hidden from view. Concealing the handrail 100 mitigates the stigma typically associated with non-concealed handrails that are immediately visually apparent and often present a dominant visual feature in the room. In contrast, the concealed handrail 100 blends in with a room’s decor and avoids diminishing the visual appeal or “look” of the room in which it is located. By eliminating these barriers to implementing handrails, risk of falls and injuries resulting therefrom can be reduced.

[0072] Referring again to Figure 1 , in the illustrated example, the handrail 100 is oriented horizontally, parallel to the floor. In alternative examples, the handrail 100 may be oriented at an incline (e.g. along a staircase) or vertically (e.g. in a configuration typically referred to as a grab bar).

[0073] In the illustrated example, the finished wall assembly 102 forms part of the perimeter of a shower 104 and includes a lower wall portion 106, an upper wall portion 108 and a recessed wall portion 110 between the lower and upper wall portions 106, 108. An upper surface of the lower wall portion 106, an outer surface of the recessed wall portion 110, and a lower surface of the upper wall portion 108 define a storage niche 112. The concealed handrail 100, in the illustrated example, is integrated with the lower end of the storage niche 112. In alternative embodiments, the finished wall assembly 102 does not include the upper wall portion 108.

[0074] Referring to Figure 2, the lower wall portion 106 of the finished wall assembly 102 comprises a support structure 116, which in the example illustrated,includes one or more pieces of horizontally oriented lumber. The upper wall portion 108 and the recessed wall portion 110 of the finished wall assembly 102 may comprise their own respective support structure (not shown). The support structure 116 has a support structure upper surface 118 and a support structure front surface 120. In the illustrated example, the support structure front surface 120 is oriented generally perpendicular to the support structure upper surface 118. The expression “generally perpendicular” reflects the fact that the support structure 116 may take the form of rough-cut lumber having outer surfaces that are not perfectly flat or square relative to one another, and so a reasonable amount of deviation from perpendicular (90 degrees) is to be accommodated and would be understood to not impact the end result. For example, the expression “generally perpendicular” may mean perpendicular + / - 15 degrees (between 75 and 105 degrees).

[0075] In the example illustrated, the lower wall portion 106 of the finished wall assembly 102 further comprises a wall cladding lower portion 134 affixed to the support structure front surface 120. The support structure front surface 120 may comprise a bonding interface to promote bonding with the wall cladding lower portion 134. Any suitable type of bonding interface can be used. The bonding interface may comprise a bonding material that adheres to cladding adhesive.

[0076] In the illustrated example, the bonding interface comprises a wall board 122 that is secured to the support structure front surface 120 (e.g., with a plurality of fasteners). The wall cladding lower portion 134 is bonded to an outer surface 124 of the wall board 122 with cladding adhesive 146. Any suitable type of wall board can be used. For example, the wall board 122 may be fiberglass mat gypsum (e.g., DensGlass™ or DensShield™), cementitious foam board, fleeced foam board, cement board, etc. In dry applications, the wall board 122 can be drywall. Any suitable type of cladding adhesive 146 can be used. For example, the cladding adhesive 146 may be thin-set mortar, epoxy, mastic, construction adhesives, etc. In some cases, the type of cladding adhesive 146 is selected based on the type of bonding interface used and / or whether the handrail 100 is installed in a dry or wet environment. For example, thin-set motor and mastic are moresuitable cladding adhesives for wet environments (within showers or bathtubs) than construction adhesives.

[0077] Referring still to Figure 2, in the illustrated example, the concealed handrail 100 comprises an elongate core 200 secured to the support structure 116. In the illustrated example, the elongate core 200 comprises a base panel 204, a front panel 220 extending upward from a front end of the base panel 204, and a return panel 234 extending rearward from an upper end of the front panel 220. In alternative examples, the elongate core 200 does not include a return panel (e.g., Figure 15).

[0078] As disclosed in more detail subsequently herein, at least a portion of the outer surface of the front panel 220 defines a front cladding surface 232 for supporting wall cladding. The front cladding surface 232 is coplanar with an adjacent front cladding surface of the support structure thereby allowing a continuous application of wall cladding over the two co-planar surfaces. In the illustrated example, the front cladding surface 232 is co-planar with the wall board outer surface 124.

[0079] In the illustrated example, the elongate core 200 includes an optional spacer tab 212 projecting downwardly from the base panel outer surface 214. The spacer tab 212 can assist securing the elongate core 200 to the support structure 116 so that the front cladding surface 232 is co-planar with the wall board outer surface 124. Some contractors choose to work primarily with one consistent type of wall board 122 throughout all their installations. Since only one type of wall board 122 is used, the thickness of the wall board 122 is known for each installation. As an example, if fiberglass sheathing with a inch (1 .27 cm) thickness is routinely used as the wall board 122 across all of a contractor’s installations, the elongate cores 200 for this contractor may be manufactured with a spacer tab 212 projecting downwardly from the base panel outer surface 214 at a position laterally offset from the front cladding surface 232 by 1.27 cm. The installer can then secure the elongate core 200 to the support structure 116 with the spacer tab 212 abutting the support structure front surface 120 to ensure the front cladding surface 232 is co-planar with the wall board outer surface 124. In alternative examples, the elongate core 200 does not include a spacer tab (e.g., Figures 8 and 10).

[0080] With reference to Figures 5 and 6, the base panel 204 of the elongate core 200 extends axially along a length 202 of the core 200 and laterally between a base panel front end 206 and a base panel rear end 208. The base panel 204 has a base panel outer surface 214 and a base panel inner surface 216 opposite the base panel outer surface 214. When the elongate core 200 is secured to the support structure 116, the base panel outer surface 214 may be directed toward the support structure upper surface 118. In some examples, at least a portion of the base panel outer surface 214 provides a bearing surface 218 for bearing against the support structure upper surface 118. In the illustrated example, the base panel 204 includes a plurality of front and rear fastener apertures 268a, 268b for securing the elongate core 200 to the support structure 116. Adjacent ones of the front fastener apertures 268a are axially spaced apart along the base panel 204. Likewise, adjacent ones of the rear fastener apertures 268b are axially spaced apart along the base panel 204. In alternative example, the base panel outer surface 214 does not provide a bearing surface for bearing against the support structure upper surface 118. In such examples, the base panel outer surface 214 may be spaced vertically above the support structure upper surface and the elongate core is secured to another portion of the support structure (e.g., see Fig. 17).

[0081] Referring again to Figure 2, the bearing surface 218 bears against the support structure upper surface 118 when the elongate core 200 is secured to the support structure 116. In the illustrated example, front and rear fasteners 154a, 154b pass through a respective one of the front and rear fastener apertures 268a, 268b (Figure 6) and into the support structure 116 to secure the elongate core 200 to the support structure 116. Alternative examples of securing the elongate core 200 to the support structure 116 can also be used, some examples of which are discussed below.

[0082] With reference again to Figures 5 and 6, the front panel 220 of the elongate core 200 has a front panel lower end 222 that extends axially along the length of the core 200 and is joined to the base panel inner surface 216 proximate the base panel front end 206. The front panel 220 extends upward from the front panel lower end 222 to a front panel upper end 224. The front panel 220 has a front panel outer surface 226 directedaway from the base panel rear end 208 and a front panel inner surface 228 opposite the front panel outer surface 226.

[0083] At least a portion of the front panel outer surface 226 defines a front cladding surface 232 for supporting wall cladding (e.g., wall cladding front portion 136 in Figure 2). In the illustrated example, the front cladding surface 232 is oriented perpendicular to the base panel outer surface 214. In the alternative examples, the front cladding surface 232 is oriented generally perpendicular to the base panel outer surface 214.

[0084] Referring to Figure 2, the concealed handrail 100 further comprises a wall cladding front portion 136 affixed to the front cladding surface 232. In some examples, the elongate core 200 is made of metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel, etc.). Some cladding adhesives (e.g., thin-set mortar, epoxy, and mastic) adhere poorly to metal which, in turn, can lead to the formation of weak bonds between the wall cladding front portion 136 and the elongate core 200. To mitigate this issue, the front cladding surface 232 may comprise a bonding interface to promote bonding the wall cladding front portion 136. In some examples, the bonding interface is a surface or portion of a surface prepared to serve as a suitable substrate for cladding adhesives (e.g., thin-set mortar, epoxy, or mastic) without requiring additional surface treatment on site during installation. Surface preparations may include texturing, roughening, grooved, etching, sandblasting, priming, and / or the application of specialty coatings, such as conversion coatings or textured powder coatings.

[0085] Alternatively, or in addition, the bonding interface may comprise a bonding material that adheres well to commercially available cladding adhesive. For example, the bonding interface may comprise cementitious foam board, liquid-applied membrane, fleeced foam board, a wall board or a combination thereof. In the illustrated example, the bonding interface comprises a fleece membrane 290 and the wall cladding front portion 136 is bonded to the fleece membrane 290 with cladding adhesive 146. In alternative examples, the front cladding surface 232 does not comprise a bonding interface (e.g., Figure 8). The bonding interface may further include securement features (e.g., adhesive and / or mechanical fasteners) that facilitate securing the bonding material to the claddingsurface and / or enhance performance of the bonding interface under thermal or mechanical stress conditions. The securement features of the bonding interface may possess strain-tolerant or stress-distributing properties, which can help reduce transfer of thermal expansion and contraction forces from the core to the cladding adhesive. Such effects may be particularly relevant in environments that experience repeated thermal or moisture fluctuations, including, for example, wet areas, exterior wall cavities, or other temperature-variable locations. Where the core comprises metal, such as aluminum, thermal mismatch with rigid cladding materials and adhesives may lead to shear stress concentrations, particularly near corners or panel junctions. When a brittle adhesive layer is positioned between materials with differing thermal expansion characteristics, such cycling may result in localized stress accumulation. Over time, these stresses may degrade the adhesive bond, increasing the likelihood of debonding, cracking, or visible deformation. By absorbing or redistributing these stresses, the various bonding interfaces described herein may help preserve the structural and visual integrity of the wall cladding.

[0086] In some examples, the elongate core 200 is made from fiberglass, carbon fiber or other textured materials. Cladding adhesives generally adhere well to textured surfaces like fiberglass. Accordingly, when the elongate core 200 is made from a texturized surface, the front cladding surface 232 may not include a bonding interface and / or may not require any additional surface preparation after manufacturing to improve bonding with cladding adhesives.

[0087] In the illustrated example, the wall cladding lower portion 134 and the wall cladding front portion 136 form a continuous cladded wall surface. The continuous cladded wall surface does not have any gap or interruption at a transition 135 between the wall cladding lower portion 134 and the wall cladding front portion 136 (see also Figure 1 ). Such a gap would diminish the visual appearance of the finished wall assembly and alert visitors to the presence of the handrail.

[0088] With reference to Figures 5 and 6, the return panel 234 of the elongate core 200 has a return panel front end 236 that extends axially along the length of the core 200 and is joined to the front panel inner surface 228 proximate the front panel upper end 224.The return panel 234 extends rearward from the return panel front end 236 to a return panel rear end 238. The return panel 234 has a return panel inner surface 242 directed toward the base panel inner surface 216 and a return panel outer surface 244 opposite the return panel inner surface 242.

[0089] In some examples, at least a portion of the return panel outer surface 244 defines an upper cladding surface 252 for supporting wall cladding. Referring to Figure 2, the concealed handrail 100 further comprises a wall cladding upper portion 138 affixed to the upper cladding surface 252. Like the front cladding surface 232, the upper cladding surface 252 may also comprise a bonding interface to promote bonding with the wall cladding upper portion 138. The bonding interface may comprise a bonding material that adheres to cladding adhesive. For example, the bonding interface may comprise cementitious foam board, liquid-applied membrane, fleeced foam board, or a combination thereof. In the illustrated example, the bonding interface comprises a fleece membrane 291 and the wall cladding upper portion 138 is bonded to the fleece membrane 291 with cladding adhesive 146 (e.g., thin-set mortar, epoxy, mastic, etc.). In alternative examples, the upper cladding surface 252 does not comprise a bonding interface (e.g., Figure 8).

[0090] In the illustrated example, the fleece membranes 290, 291 are one continuous fleece membrane that extends partially around the elongate core 200 to cover the front panel outer surface 226 and the return panel outer surface 244. The fleece membranes 290, 291 are omitted from Figures 5 and 6 for clarity of illustration. The bonding materials(s) (e.g., fleece membranes 290, 291 ) are preferably applied to the bonding interface(s) during manufacture of the core 200 and sold as a prefabricated unit. Alternatively, the bonding materials can be applied to bonding interface(s) of the core 200 at the installation site.

[0091] Referring again to Figure 2, the recessed wall portion 110 of the finished wall assembly 102 includes a wall cladding recessed portion 142 bonded to a wall board 144 with cladding adhesive 146. In the illustrated example, each of the wall cladding lower portion 134, the wall cladding front portion 136, the wall cladding upper portion 138, and the wall cladding recessed portion 142 comprise the same type of cladding material (e.g.,the same tile is used throughout in Figure 1 ). Having the wall cladding lower, front, upper and recessed portions 134, 136, 138 and 142 comprise the same type of cladding material may be preferable from an aesthetics perspective. In alternative examples, the wall cladding lower portion 134, the wall cladding front portion 136, the wall cladding upper portion 138, and the wall cladding recessed portion 142 may comprise different types of cladding material (e.g., tile, vinyl, slab, etc.).

[0092] Referring to Figure 6, at least a portion of the return panel inner surface 242 defines a gripping surface 246 engageable by a user’s fingers. In the illustrated example, the gripping surface 246 comprises a rounded portion 248 proximate the return panel rear end 238, and an inclined portion 250 sloped upward and forward from a front edge of the rounded portion 248 to promote engagement with the user’s fingers (e.g., see Figure 2).

[0093] Referring again to Figure 6, the return panel 234 has a return panel depth 240 extending from the return panel front end 236 to the return panel rear end 238. The base panel 204 has a base panel depth 210 extending from the base panel front end 206 to the base panel rear end 208. The elongate core 200 has a core depth. In the illustrated example, the core depth is equivalent to the base panel depth 210. The return panel depth 240 is smaller than the core depth. A finger access opening is defined between the wall cladding recessed portion 142 and the return panel rear end 238 due at least in part to the return panel depth 240 being smaller than the core depth. Users can extend their fingers through the access opening to grab the concealed handrail 100 (e.g., see Figure 2).

[0094] With reference to Figures 5 and 6, the elongate core 200, in the illustrated example, comprises an optional protective lip 262 that extends axially along the length of the core 200 and projects upward from the return panel outer surface 244 proximate the return panel rear end 238. The protective lip 262 has a lip outer surface 264 directed toward the front panel 220 and a lip inner surface 266 opposite the lip outer surface 264. In the illustrated example, the protective lip 262 has a bottom portion with a greater thickness than that of an upper portion of the protective lip. The thicker bottom portion of the protective lip 262 may enhance resistance to bending during user engagement. Thethinner top portion may reduce the visual prominence of the protective lip 262 when viewed from above. In alternative examples, the elongate core 200 does not comprise a protective lip 262 (e.g., Figure 8).

[0095] Referring to Figure 2, the lip outer surface 264 abuts a rear edge of the wall cladding upper portion 138. The rear edge of the wall cladding upper portion 138 may not be smooth to the touch. For example, this edge could include bits of hardened cladding adhesive 146 that extend past the outer edge of the cladding material. Alternatively, or in addition, the rear edge of the wall cladding upper portion 138 may comprise sharp edges of cut cladding material. The protective lip 262 covers the rear edge of the wall cladding upper portion 138 and provides a smooth surface for the user’s fingers to grip.

[0096] Alternatively, or in addition, the protective lip 262 can protect the wall cladding upper portion 138 by limiting the force that the user can apply to the wall cladding upper portion 138 while gripping the handrail 100. Applying excessive and / or repeated shear force to the wall cladding upper portion 138 could cause some or all of the cladding material of wall cladding upper portion 138 to dislodge from the upper cladding surface 252. With the protective lip 262, the user’s fingers press against the lip inner surface 266 instead of pressing against the rear edge of the upper wall cladding portion (e.g., see Figure 2).

[0097] Referring to Figure 2, the concealed handrail 100 is gripped by a user’s hand 148. In the illustrated example, the inside surface of the user’s fingers engages the gripping surface 246 of the return panel 234 and the lip inner surface 266 of the protective lip 262. The inside surface of the user’s thumb engages the wall cladding front portion 136, with the palm of the user’s hand 148 overlying the wall cladding upper portion 138. The user can apply a compressive gripping force to the handrail 100 by attempting to urge their fingers and thumbs together.

[0098] The elongate core 200 may include one or more drainage openings for draining liquid therefrom. The drainage openings are preferably spaced rearward of the front panel outer surface 226 so that the drainage openings are hidden from view in use. The drainage features described herein avoid the need for an exposed drainage grooveextending along the length of the elongate core or staggered cladding planes near the concealed handrail. Referring to Figure 6, in the illustrated example, the base panel 204 includes at least one drainage opening 278 for draining liquid therethrough. The positioning of drainage openings 278 is not limited to the base panel 204 and, in alternative examples, one or more drainage apertures may be formed in the core in any location where liquid tends to gather. In the illustrated example, the drainage opening 278 is located proximate the lateral midpoint of the base panel 204. In some examples, the base panel 204 includes a single drainage opening 278. In such examples, the drainage opening 278 is preferably located proximate a midpoint of the length of the core 200. In other examples, the base panel 204 includes a plurality of drainage openings 278 spaced axially apart along the base panel 204. In alternative examples, the elongate core 200 does not comprise any drainage openings (e.g., Figures 9 and 10). In such examples, the elongate core 200 can be used for dry applications (e.g., those where the handrail is installed beside a toilet, along a bathroom wall, etc.).

[0099] Referring again to Figure 2, in the illustrated example, the elongate core 200 comprises an optional annular coupling 150 secured to the base panel outer surface 214 in alignment with the drainage opening 278. The coupling 150 may be secured to the base panel outer surface 214 in any suitable manner (e.g., welding, adhesive, etc.). In the illustrated example, the coupling 150 is connected to an upstream end of a drainage conduit 152. A downstream end of the drainage conduit 152 can be connected to the building’s primary sewer line. Alternatively, the downstream end of the drainage conduit 152 can be connected to the same secondary drainage line as the drain of the shower 104 (Figure 1 ). In other examples, the downstream end of the drainage conduit 152 may lead to a small drain hole formed near the bottom of one of the shower’s walls. Liquid that passes through the drainage conduit 152 may be released into the shower via the drain hole and then enter the home’s plumping via the shower drain. In such examples, the drain hole formed near the bottom of the shower is spaced apart from the handrail by such a significant distance that visitors are not alerted to the presence of the handrail should they happen to see the drain hole.

[0100] With reference to Figures 5 and 6, the elongate core 200 comprises an optional web panel 254 having a web panel lower end 256 that extends axially along the length 202 of the core 200 and is joined to the base panel inner surface 216 proximate a lateral midpoint of the base panel 204. In some examples, the web panel lower end 256 is joined to the base panel inner surface 216 at a position laterally offset from the base panel front end 206 by 20% to 80%, more preferably 30 to 70%, of the base panel depth 210. In the illustrated example, the web panel lower end 256 is joined to the base panel inner surface 216 at a position laterally offset from the base panel front end 206 by approximately 45% of the base panel depth 210.

[0101] The web panel 254 extends upward and forward from the web panel lower end 256 to a web panel upper end 258. The web panel upper end 258 is joined to the front panel inner surface 228 at a position above the front panel lower end 222. Should the front panel 220 deflect laterally relative to the base panel 204 when under load, cladding material near the transition 135 between the wall cladding lower and front portions 134, 136 (Figure 2) may crack. The web panel 254 helps reinforce the connection between the front panel 220 and the base panel 204 and can thereby limit lateral deflection of the front panel 220 relative to the base panel 204 when under load (i.e., when the handrail 100 is gripped by a user).

[0102] In alternative examples, the elongate core 200 does not comprise a web panel (e.g., Figures 7-10). In such examples, the front panel 220 may sufficiently resist deflection relative to the base panel 204 when under load without a web panel for reinforcement. Lateral deflection of the front panel 200 relative to the base panel 204 can be limited in multiple ways without a web panel (e.g., thicker base and front panels 204, 220 and / or material strengthening processes).

[0103] The web panel upper end 258 is preferably joined to the front panel inner surface 228 proximate the front panel upper end 224. In the illustrated example, the front panel 220 has a vertical midpoint between the front panel upper end 224 and the front panel lower end 222, and the web panel upper end 258 is joined to the front panel inner surface 228 nearer the front panel upper end 224 than the vertical midpoint. All else beingequal, the closer that the web panel upper end 258 is joined to the front panel upper end 224, the greater the web panel 254 will be able to help resist lateral deflection of the front panel 220 relative to the base panel 204. In alternative examples, the web panel upper end 258 is joined to the front panel inner surface 228 below the vertical midpoint of the front panel 220. In such examples, the web panel 254 still helps limit lateral deflection of the front panel 220 relative to the base panel 204 when under load.

[0104] Referring still to Figures 5 and 6, the elongate core 200 comprises an optional rear panel 280 having a rear panel lower end 282 that extends axially along the length of the core 200 and is joined to the base panel inner surface 216. In the illustrated example, the rear panel lower end is joined to the base panel inner surface proximate the base panel rear end 208. The rear panel 280 extends upward from the rear panel lower end 282 to a rear panel upper end 284.

[0105] Referring to Figure 6, in the illustrated example, the drainage opening 278 is located between the web panel lower end 256 and the rear panel lower end 282. In the illustrated example, a lower portion of the web and rear panels 254, 280 laterally enclose a liquid collection reservoir 288 that is in fluid communication with the drainage opening 278. The web panel 254, in the illustrated example, has a web panel upper surface 260 that is sloped to direct liquid toward the drainage opening 278. Similarly, in the illustrated example, the rear panel 280 includes a rear panel upper surface portion 286 that is sloped to direct liquid toward the drainage opening 278. By directing water to the drainage opening 278, the sloped web panel upper surface 260 and the rear panel upper surface portion 286 can help reduce the volume of standing water inside the elongate core 200.

[0106] In some examples, the rear panel lower end 282 is joined to the base panel inner surface 216 at a position laterally offset from the base panel rear end 208 by 0% to 50% of the base panel depth 210. In the illustrated example, the rear panel lower end 282 is joined to the base panel inner surface 216 at a position laterally offset from the base panel rear end 208 by approximately 20% of the base panel depth 210. In alternative examples, the elongate core 200 does not comprise a rear panel (e.g., Figures 9 and 10).

[0107] In the illustrated example, the web panel lower end 256 is joined to the base panel 204 rearward of the front fastener apertures 268a. Locating the web panel lower end 256 forward of the front fastener apertures 268a separates the front fasteners 154a (Figure 2) from the liquid collection reservoir 288 and can thereby eliminate an area where water could potentially leak. In the illustrated example, the rear panel lower end 282 is joined to the base panel 204 forward of the rear fastener apertures 268b. Locating the rear panel lower end 282 forward of the rear fastener apertures 268b separates the rear fasteners 154b (Figure 2) from the liquid collection reservoir 288 and can thereby eliminate another area where water could potentially leak.

[0108] Some or all of the components of the elongate core 200 may be of unitary construction. For example, the elongate core 200 may be manufactured, at least in part, through an extrusion process. In the illustrated example, the base panel 204, the front panel 220, the return panel 234, the web panel 254, the protective lip 262, and the rear panel 280 are of unitary construction. In an alternative example, one or more of the base panel 204, the front panel 220, the return panel 234, the web panel 254, the protective lip 262, and the rear panel 280 are not of unitary construction with the other components of the elongate core 200.

[0109] Referring to Figure 4, another concealed handrail 100’ and another lower wall portion 106’ are similar to the concealed handrail 100 and lower wall portion 106, with like features identified by like reference characters. Compared to the assembly of Figure 2, an additional wall board 126 is used in the assembly of Figure 4. The wall board 126 has a planer wall board outer surface 128 for supporting a continuous cladded wall surface and a wall board inner surface 130 opposite the wall board outer surface 128. The wall board inner surface 130 bears against the front cladding surface 232’ and the wall board outer surface 124. The wall board 126 has a wall board upper portion 132 and a wall board lower portion 133.

[0110] The concealed handrail 100’ comprises the elongate core 200, the wall cladding front portion 136 is affixed to the front cladding surface 232’, and the wall cladding upper portion 138 is affixed to the upper cladding surface 252. The bondinginterface of the upper cladding surface 252 comprises the fleece membrane 291 . The wall cladding upper portion 138 is bonded to the fleece membrane 291 with cladding adhesive 146.

[0111] Like the front cladding surface 232, the front cladding surface 232’ comprises a bonding interface to promote bonding the wall cladding front portion 136. In the example illustrated in Figure 4, the bonding interface comprises the wall board upper portion 132 (instead of the fleece membrane 290 of Figure 2). To affix the wall cladding front portion 136 to the front cladding surface 232’, the wall cladding front portion 136 is bonded to the outer surface of the wall board upper portion 132 with cladding adhesive 146.

[0112] The lower wall portion 106’ comprises the lower support structure 116 and the wall cladding lower portion 134 affixed to the support structure front surface 120. In the illustrated example, the support structure front surface 120 comprises the wall board 122 and the wall board lower portion 133. To affix the wall cladding lower portion 134 to the support structure front surface 120, the wall cladding lower portion 134 is bonded to the outer surface of the wall board lower portion 133 with cladding adhesive 146.

[0113] Referring now to Figure 13, a kit 600 for a concealed handrail includes the elongate core 200 and at least one other component for use with the elongate core 200. In the illustrated example, the kit 600 includes an elongate tray 300, a light-emitted diode (LED) strip 400 and a shelf 500. In alternative examples, the kit 600 includes multiple of any one or more of the elongate core 200, the elongate tray 300, the LED strip 400 and the shelf 500. As an example, the kit 600 may include one elongate core 200, one elongate tray 300, two LED strips 400 and three shelves 500. As another example, the kit may include three elongate cores 200, three elongate trays 300, three LED strips 400 and six shelves 500. In some examples, the kit 600 includes one or more of the elongate cores discussed herein below instead of the elongate core 200 (e.g., elongate cores 1200, 2200, 3200 and 4200) and / or one or more of the shelves discussed herein below (e.g., shelf 500). In some examples, the kit 600 includes one or more of the elongate cores 200discussed herein below and one or more grip-aiding accessories mountable to the one or more elongate cores 200 (e.g., see rounded hand grip accessory 9378 in Figure 23).

[0114] In use, the LED strip 400 is positionable inside the elongate core 200. When activated, the LED strip 400 emits light that may assist users in locating the concealed handrail 100. Referring to Figure 2, the LED strip 400 is preferably located so that at least a portion of the emitted light passes through the finger access opening between the wall cladding recessed portion 142 and the return panel 234. In the illustrated example, the LED strip 400 is positioned along the upper surface to the web panel 254. In some examples, the kit 600 may include clips or other types of mechanical fasteners to secure the LED strip 400 to the elongate core 200.

[0115] Referring to Figure 14, in use, the shelf 500 engages the elongate core 200 and can be used to support one or more user items at an elevation similar to that of the wall cladding upper portion 138. For example, the user items supported by the shelf 500 may include shampoo, soap, or other items typically stored within the shower. When engaged with the elongate core 200, the shelf 500 has a shelf upper surface 502 with an elevation substantially equal to that of the wall cladding upper portion 138. The expression “substantially equal” means a reasonable amount of deviation from equal such that the end result is not significantly changed. For example, the expression “substantially equal” may mean within 1 cm of being perfectly equal. With an elevation substantially equal to that of the wall cladding upper portion 138, the shelf upper surface 502 can assist the wall cladding upper portion 138 in supporting user items that would be too large for the wall cladding upper portion 138 to support on its own.

[0116] The shelf 500 can engage the elongate core 200 in any suitable manner provided that the shelf upper surface 502 has an elevation substantially equal to that of the wall cladding upper portion 138 when engaged. For example, the shelf 500 may include a stand that sits inside the elongate core 200 and extends upward. In the illustrated example, the shelf 500 has a bracket 504 with an end that is shaped to mate with a retaining groove 245 formed in the return panel rear end 238. In the illustratedexample, the shelf upper surface 502 has an elevation equal to that of the wall cladding upper portion 138 when the bracket 504 is connected to the retaining groove 245.

[0117] With reference to Figures 5 and 6, the elongate core 200 comprises, in the illustrated example, a tray seat 292 extending axially along the length of the core 200 proximate the base panel inner surface 216 for supporting the elongate tray 300 inside the elongate core 200. In the illustrated example, the tray seat 292 comprises first and second ledges 294, 296. The first ledge 294 projects upwardly from the web panel 254 and the second ledge 296 projects upwardly from the rear panel 280. Referring to Figure 2, the elongate tray 300 is supported by the first and second ledges 294, 296. In alternative examples, the tray seat 292 comprises a portion of the base panel inner surface 216. In such an example, the tray 300 sits directly on the base panel inner surface 216.

[0118] In the illustrated example, the elongate tray 300 comprises a tray body 302 engageable with the tray seat 292. The tray body 302 has a tray inner surface 304 directed away from the base panel inner surface 216 when the tray body 302 is engaged with the tray seat 292. At least a portion of the tray inner surface 304 defines an inner cladding surface 306 for supporting a wall cladding interior portion 140 that impedes visual access to at least a portion of the elongate core 200. In the illustrated example, the wall cladding interior portion 140 is bonded to the inner cladding surface 306 with cladding adhesive 146 (e.g., thin-set mortar, epoxy, mastic, etc.).

[0119] Referring still to Figure 2, at least a portion of the inner cladding surface 306 is laterally rearward of the return panel rear end 238 when the tray body 302 is engaged with the tray seat 292. By positioning a portion of the inner cladding surface 306 laterally rearward of the return panel rear end 238, the wall cladding interior portion 140 supported by that portion of the inner cladding surface 306 will be visible when a user looks at the handrail 100 along line-of-sight 156. More preferably, a substantial portion (e.g., over 60%) of the inner cladding surface 306 is laterally rearward of the return panel rear end 238 when the tray body 302 is engaged with the tray seat 292.

[0120] From an aesthetics perspective, it is preferable for a user to see the wall cladding interior portion 140 rather than a portion of the elongate core 200 when looking at the handrail 100 along the line-of-sight 156. As an example, the elongate core 200 may be made of metal whereas the wall cladding interior portion 140 may comprise cladding material that matches that of the wall cladding upper portion 138 and / or the wall cladding recessed portion 142. For this reason, the tray seat 292 is generally positioned so that when the tray body 302 is engaged therewith, at least a portion of the inner cladding surface 306 is located between the wall cladding recessed portion 142 and the return panel rear end 238. In the illustrated example, the inner cladding surface 306 has a depth generally equal to the gap between the wall cladding recessed portion 142 and the return panel rear end 238. Instead of seeing the elongate core 200 when looking at the handrail 100 along the line-of-sight 156, the user will see the wall cladding interior portion 140 supported by the inner cladding surface 306.

[0121] Referring to Figure 3, in the illustrated example, when the user looks down toward the handrail 100, they will see the wall cladding interior portion 140 instead of the elongate core 200. In the illustrated example, the wall cladding upper portion 138 and the wall cladding interior portion 140 both support the same type of cladding material (square tile). Having both the wall cladding upper and interior portions 138, 140 support the same type of cladding material may be preferable from an aesthetics perspective. In alternative examples, the wall cladding upper portion 138 and the wall cladding interior portion 140 may comprise different kinds of cladding material (e.g., tile, slab, etc.).

[0122] Referring again to Figure 2, in the illustrated example, the elongate tray 300 comprises a front cladding retaining wall 308 extending upward from a front edge of the tray body 302, and a rear cladding retaining wall 310 extending upward from a rear edge of the tray body 302. The front and rear cladding retaining walls 308, 310 and the tray inner surface 304 define a channel 312 for receiving the wall cladding interior portion 140.

[0123] Front and rear edges of the wall cladding interior portion 140 may not be smooth to the touch. For example, the edges could include bits of hardened cladding adhesive 146 that extend past the perimeter of the cladding material. Alternatively, or inaddition, the front and rear edges of the wall cladding interior portion 140 may comprise sharp edges of cut cladding material. The front and rear cladding retaining walls 308, 310 cover a respective one of the front and rear edges of the wall cladding interior portion 140 and provide a smooth exterior surface.

[0124] Referring to Figure 2, the elongate core 200 comprises a plurality of optional risers 298 for separating the elongate tray 300 from the path liquid takes to the drainage opening 278. In the illustrated example, the risers 298 are axially spaced apart along each of the first and second ledges 294 and 296. The risers 298 create drainage gaps between the tray body 302 and the first and second ledges 294 and 296 of the tray seat 292 through which liquid can pass without obstruction from the elongate tray 300.

[0125] Referring to Figure 4, the elongate tray 300 is engaged with the tray seat 292 in a reversed orientation compared to the one in Figure 2. In the illustrated example, the elongate tray 300 does not support any wall cladding. Installing the elongate tray 300 in the reversed orientation is an option for those who would rather reduce installation cost (cladding material not needed for the elongate tray 300) than impede visual access of the elongate core 200. Alternatively, or in addition, some may choose to install the elongate tray 300 in the reserved orientation if it is more desirable to keep the elongate tray 300 light and easy to remove for cleaning than impeding visual access of the elongate core 200.

[0126] Referring to Figure 7, another example of an elongate core 1200 according to aspects of the present teaching has some similarity to the elongate core 200, with like features identified by like reference characters, incremented by 1000. In the illustrated example, the elongate core 1200 comprises a base panel 1204, a front panel 1220, a return panel 1234, a protective lip 1262, a rear panel 1280 and a spacer tab 1212. In some examples, the base panel 1204, the front panel 1220, the return panel 1234, the protective lip 1262, the rear panel 1280, and the spacer tab 1212 are of unitary construction.

[0127] The base panel 1204 extends axially along the length of the core and laterally between a base panel front end 1206 and a base panel rear end 1208. The basepanel 1204 has a base panel outer surface 1214 and a base panel inner surface 1216 opposite the base panel outer surface 1214. A portion of the base panel outer surface 1214 provides a bearing surface 1218 for bearing against an upper surface of a support structure. The base panel 1204 includes a plurality of front and rear fastener apertures 1268a, 1268b for securing the elongate core 1200 to the support structure. In the illustrated example, the tray seat 1292 comprises a portion of the base panel inner surface 1216.

[0128] The front panel 1220 has a front panel lower end 1222 that extends axially along the length of the core and is joined to the base panel inner surface 1216 proximate the base panel front end 1206. The front panel 1220 extends upward from the front panel lower end 1222 to a front panel upper end 1224. The front panel 1220 has a front panel outer surface 1226 directed away from the base panel rear end 1208 and a front panel inner surface 1228 opposite the front panel outer surface 1226. A portion of the front panel outer surface 1226 defines a front cladding surface 1232 for supporting wall cladding.

[0129] The return panel 1234 has a return panel front end 1236 that extends axially along the length of the core and is joined to the front panel inner surface 1228 at the front panel upper end 1224. The return panel 1234 extends rearward from the return panel front end 1236 to a return panel rear end 1238. The return panel 1234 has a return panel inner surface 1242 directed toward the base panel inner surface 1216 and a return panel outer surface 1244 opposite the return panel inner surface 1242. The return panel outer surface 1244 defines an upper cladding surface 1252 for supporting wall cladding. A portion of the return panel inner surface 1242 defines a gripping surface 1246 engageable by a user’s fingers.

[0130] The front cladding surface 1232 and the upper cladding surface 1252 both comprise a bonding interface to promote bonding with wall cladding (e.g., tile, slab, etc.). The bonding interfaces may comprise a bonding material that adheres well to commercially available cladding adhesive (e.g., thin-set mortar, epoxy, and mastic). Inthe illustrated example, the bonding interfaces of each of the front and upper cladding surfaces 1232, 1252 comprise a liquid-applied membrane 1293.

[0131] The return panel 1234 has a return panel depth 1240 extending from the return panel front end 1236 to the return panel rear end 1238. The base panel 1204 has a base panel depth 1210 extending from the base panel front end 1206 to the base panel rear end 1208. The elongate core 1200 has a core depth. In the illustrated example, the core depth is equivalent to the base panel depth 1210. The return panel depth 1240 is smaller than the core depth. In use, an opening for accessing the gripping surface 1246 is provided at least in part by the return panel depth 1240 being smaller than the core depth.

[0132] The protective lip 1262 extends axially along the length of the core and projects upward from the return panel outer surface 1244 at the return panel rear end 1238. The protective lip 1262 has a lip outer surface 1264 directed toward the front panel 1220 and a lip inner surface 1266 opposite the lip outer surface 1264.

[0133] The base panel 1204 includes a drainage opening 1278 for draining liquid therethrough. In the illustrated example, the drainage opening 1278 is located proximate the front panel lower end 1222. In the illustrated example, the drainage opening 1278 is forward a lateral midpoint of the base panel 1204.

[0134] The rear panel 1280 has a rear panel lower end 1282 that extends axially along the length of the core and is joined to the base panel inner surface 1216 proximate the base panel rear end 1208. The rear panel 1280 extends upward from the rear panel lower end 1282 to a rear panel upper end 1284. In the illustrated example, the rear panel lower end 1282 is joined to the base panel inner surface 1216 at a position laterally offset from the base panel rear end 1208 by approximately 25% of the base panel depth 1210.

[0135] In the illustrated example, a lower portion of the front and rear panels 1220, 1280 laterally enclose a liquid collection reservoir 1288 that is in fluid communication with the drainage opening 1278. In the illustrated example, a lower portion of the front panel inner surface 1228 is sloped to direct liquid toward the drainage opening 1278. Similarly,in the illustrated example, a portion of the base panel inner surface 1216 rearward of the drainage opening 1278 is sloped to direct liquid toward the drainage opening 1278. By directing water to the drainage opening 1278, the sloped portions of the front panel inner surface 1228 and base panel inner surface 1216 can help reduce the volume of standing water within the elongate core 1200.

[0136] Referring to Figure 8, another example of an elongate core 2200 according to aspects of the present teaching has some similarity to the elongate core 200, with like features identified by like reference characters, incremented by 2000. In the illustrated example, the elongate core 2200 comprises a base panel 2204, a front panel 2220, a return panel 2234, and a rear panel 2280. In an alternative example, the elongate core 2200 does not include the rear panel 2280.

[0137] The base panel 2204 extends axially along the length of the core and laterally between a base panel front end 2206 and a base panel rear end 2208. The base panel 2204 has a base panel outer surface 2214 and a base panel inner surface 2216 opposite the base panel outer surface 2214. A portion of the base panel outer surface 2214 provides a bearing surface 2218 for bearing against an upper surface of a support structure. In the illustrated example, the tray seat 2292 comprises a portion of the base panel inner surface 2216.

[0138] In the illustrated example, the elongate core 2200 comprises a securement panel 2270 that extends downward from the base panel outer surface 2214 proximate the base panel front end 2206. The securement panel 2270 has a securement panel outer surface 2272 directed away from the base panel rear end 2208 and a securement panel inner surface 2274 opposite the securement panel outer surface 2272 for engaging a front face of a support structure. The securement panel 2270 includes a plurality of axially spaced apart fastener apertures 2276 for securing the elongate core 2200 to the support structure (i.e. , fasteners can be passed through respective ones of the fastener apertures 2276 and into the support structure). In the illustrated example, the securement panel 2270 comprises laterally spaced apart front and rear members to reduce material usage and weight. In alternative examples, the securement panel could be a solid piece.

[0139] The front panel 2220 has a front panel lower end 2222 that extends axially along the length of the core and is joined to the base panel inner surface 2216 at the base panel front end 2206. The front panel 2220 extends upward from the front panel lower end 2222 to a front panel upper end 2224. The front panel 2220 has a front panel outer surface 2226 directed away from the base panel rear end 2208 and a front panel inner surface 2228 opposite the front panel outer surface 2226. The front panel outer surface 2226 defines a front cladding surface 2232 for supporting wall cladding.

[0140] The return panel 2234 has a return panel front end 2236 that extends axially along the length of the core and is joined to the front panel inner surface 2228 at the front panel upper end 2224. The return panel 2234 extends rearward from the return panel front end 2236 to a return panel rear end 2238. The return panel 2234 has a return panel inner surface 2242 directed toward the base panel inner surface 2216 and a return panel outer surface 2244 opposite the return panel inner surface 2242. The return panel outer surface 2244 defines an upper cladding surface 2252 for supporting wall cladding. A portion of the return panel inner surface 2242 defines a gripping surface 2246 engageable by a user’s fingers. In the illustrated example, the gripping surface 2246 comprises a rounded portion 2248 proximate the return panel rear end 2238, and an inclined portion 2250 sloped upward and forward from a front edge of the rounded portion 2248 to promote engagement with the user’s fingers.

[0141] The return panel 2234 has a return panel depth 2240 extending from the return panel front end 2236 to the return panel rear end 2238. The base panel 2204 has a base panel depth 2210 extending from the base panel front end 2206 to the base panel rear end 2208. The elongate core 2200 has a core depth. In the illustrated example, the core depth is equivalent to the base panel depth 2210. The return panel depth 2240 is smaller than the core depth. In use, an opening for accessing the gripping surface 2246 is provided at least in part by the return panel depth 2240 being smaller than the core depth.

[0142] The base panel 2204 includes a drainage opening 2278 for draining liquid therethrough. In the illustrated example, the drainage opening 2278 is located proximatethe front panel lower end 2222. In the illustrated example, the drainage opening 2278 is forward a lateral midpoint of the base panel 1204.

[0143] The rear panel 2280 has a rear panel lower end 2282 that extends axially along the length of the core and is joined to the base panel inner surface 2216 at the base panel rear end 2208. The rear panel 2280 extends upward from the rear panel lower end 2282 to a rear panel upper end 2284. In the illustrated example, the rear panel 2280 has a rear panel inner surface 2285 directed toward the base panel front end 2206 and a rear panel outer surface 2287 opposite the rear panel inner surface 2285. Optionally, the rear panel outer surface 2287 may be secured to another support structure (e.g., support structure 1 117 in Figure 12).

[0144] In the illustrated example, a lower portion of the front and rear panels 2220, 2280 laterally enclose a liquid collection reservoir 2288 that is in fluid communication with the drainage opening 2278. In the illustrated example, a portion of the base panel inner surface 2216 forward of the drainage opening 2278 is sloped to direct liquid toward the drainage opening 2278. Similarly, in the illustrated example, a portion of the base panel inner surface 2216 rearward of the drainage opening 2278 is sloped to direct liquid toward the drainage opening 2278. In the illustrated example, the rear panel inner surface 2285 is sloped to further direct liquid toward the drainage opening 2278. By directing water to the drainage opening 2278, the sloped portions of the base panel inner surface 2216 and the rear panel inner surface 2285 can help reduce the volume of standing water within the elongate core 2200.

[0145] Referring to Figure 9, another example of an elongate core 3200 according to aspects of the present teaching has some similarity to the elongate core 200, with like features identified by like reference characters, incremented by 3000. In the illustrated example, the elongate core 3200 comprises a base panel 3204, a front panel 3220, a return panel 3234, a protective lip 3262, and a spacer tab 3212. In some examples, the base panel 3204, the front panel 3220, the return panel 3234, the protective lip 3262, and the spacer tab 3212 are of unitary construction.

[0146] In the illustrated example, the elongate core 3200 does not comprise any drainage openings. The elongate core 3200 is suited for use in dry applications (e.g., those where the handrail is installed beside a toilet, along a bathroom wall, etc.).

[0147] The base panel 3204 extends axially along the length of the core and laterally between a base panel front end 3206 and a base panel rear end 3208. The base panel 3204 has a base panel outer surface 3214 and a base panel inner surface 3216 opposite the base panel outer surface 3214. A portion of the base panel outer surface 3214 provides a bearing surface 3218 for bearing against an upper surface of a support structure. The base panel 3204 includes a plurality of front and rear fastener apertures 3268a, 3268b for securing the elongate core 3200 to the support structure.

[0148] As discussed in more detail subsequently herein, wall cladding may be bonded to the base panel inner surface 3216 to impede visual access to the base panel 3204 of the elongate core 3200. When the elongate core 3200 is made of metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel, etc.), commonly used cladding adhesives (e.g., constructions glues and epoxies) tend to adhere poorly to the metal. In turn, this can lead to the formation of weak bonds between the wall cladding and the base panel inner surface 3216. To mitigate this issue, a portion of the base panel inner surface 3216 may comprise a bonding interface to promote bonding the wall cladding. The bonding interface may comprise a bonding material that adheres well to commercially available cladding adhesive (e.g., construction glues and epoxies). For example, the bonding interface may comprise cementitious foam board, liquid-applied membrane, fleeced foam board, or a combination thereof. In the illustrated example, the bonding interface comprises a fleece membrane 3299.

[0149] The front panel 3220 has a front panel lower end 3222 that extends axially along the length of the core and is joined to the base panel inner surface 3216 proximate the base panel front end 3206. The front panel 3220 extends upward from the front panel lower end 3222 to a front panel upper end 3224. The front panel 3220 has a front panel outer surface 3226 directed away from the base panel rear end 3208 and a front panel inner surface 3228 opposite the front panel outer surface 3226. A portion of the frontpanel outer surface 3226 defines a front cladding surface 3232 for supporting wall cladding.

[0150] The return panel 3234 has a return panel front end 3236 that extends axially along the length of the core and is joined to the front panel inner surface 3228 at the front panel upper end 3224. The return panel 3234 extends rearward from the return panel front end 3236 to a return panel rear end 3238. The return panel 3234 has a return panel inner surface 3242 directed toward the base panel inner surface 3216 and a return panel outer surface 3244 opposite the return panel inner surface 3242. The return panel outer surface 3244 defines an upper cladding surface 3252 for supporting wall cladding. A portion of the return panel inner surface 3242 defines a gripping surface 3246 engageable by a user’s fingers. In the illustrated example, the gripping surface 3246 comprises a rounded portion 3248 proximate the return panel rear end 3238, and an inclined portion 3250 sloped upward and forward from a front edge of the rounded portion 3248 to promote engagement with the user’s fingers.

[0151] The front cladding surface 3232 and the upper cladding surface 3252 both comprise a bonding interface to promote bonding with wall cladding (e.g., tile, wood, vinyl, etc.). The bonding interfaces may comprise a bonding material that adheres well to commercially available cladding adhesive (e.g., construction glues and epoxies). In the illustrated example, the bonding interfaces comprises fleece membranes 3290, 3291 (which may be one continuous membrane sheet).

[0152] The return panel 3234 has a return panel depth 3240 extending from the return panel front end 3236 to the return panel rear end 3238. The base panel 3204 has a base panel depth 3210 extending from the base panel front end 3206 to the base panel rear end 3208. The elongate core 3200 has a core depth. In the illustrated example, the core depth is equivalent to the base panel depth 3210. The return panel depth 3240 is smaller than the core depth. In use, an opening for accessing the gripping surface 3246 is provided at least in part by the return panel depth 3240 being smaller than the core depth.

[0153] The protective lip 3262 extends axially along the length of the core and projects upward from the return panel outer surface 3244 at the return panel rear end 3238. The protective lip 3262 has a lip outer surface 3264 directed toward the front panel 3220 and a lip inner surface 3266 opposite the lip outer surface 3264.

[0154] Referring to Figure 10, another example of an elongate core 4200 according to aspects of the present teaching has some similarity to the elongate core 200, with like features identified by like reference characters, incremented by 4000. In the illustrated example, the elongate core 4200 comprises a base panel 4204, a front panel 4220, a return panel 4234, and a protective lip 4262. In some examples, the base panel 4204, the front panel 4220, the return panel 4234, and the protective lip 4262 are of unitary construction. Like the elongate core 3200, the elongate core 4200 does not comprise any drainage openings. The elongate core 4200 is suited for use in dry applications (e.g., those where the handrail is installed beside a toilet, along a bathroom wall, etc.).

[0155] The base panel 4204 extends axially along the length of the core and laterally between a base panel front end 4206 and a base panel rear end 4208. The base panel 4204 has a base panel outer surface 4214 and a base panel inner surface 4216 opposite the base panel outer surface 4214. A portion of the base panel outer surface 4214 provides a bearing surface 4218 for bearing against an upper surface of a support structure.

[0156] The base panel 4204 includes a plurality of front and rear fastener apertures 4268a, 4268b for securing the elongate core 4200 to the support structure. Optionally, an elongate fastener cover (not shown) can be secured (e.g., glued) to the base panel inner surface 4216 to cover the fastener apertures 4268a, 4268b once fasteners have passed therethrough. For example, the elongate fastener cover could be a thin 1 / 16-inch (0.15875 cm) sheet of metal.

[0157] The front panel 4220 has a front panel lower end 4222 that extends axially along the length of the core and is joined to the base panel inner surface 4216 proximate the base panel front end 4206. The front panel 4220 extends upward from the front panel lower end 4222 to a front panel upper end 4224. The front panel 4220 has a front panelouter surface 4226 directed away from the base panel rear end 4208 and a front panel inner surface 4228 opposite the front panel outer surface 4226.

[0158] A portion of the front panel outer surface 4226 defines a front cladding surface 4232 for supporting wall cladding. In the illustrated example, the front cladding surface 4232 is less than 50% of the surface area of the front panel outer surface 4226. During installation, a wall board affixed to the front surface of the support structure (e.g., wall board 122 of Figure 2) can extend upwardly past the front panel lower end 4222 without requiring additional adhesive due to it being regularly screwed to the support structure below.

[0159] The return panel 4234 has a return panel front end 4236 that extends axially along the length of the core and is joined to the front panel inner surface 4228 at the front panel upper end 4224. The return panel 4234 extends rearward from the return panel front end 4236 to a return panel rear end 4238. The return panel 4234 has a return panel inner surface 4242 directed toward the base panel inner surface 4216 and a return panel outer surface 4244 opposite the return panel inner surface 4242. The return panel outer surface 4244 defines an upper cladding surface 4252 for supporting wall cladding. A portion of the return panel inner surface 4242 defines a gripping surface 4246 engageable by a user’s fingers. In the illustrated example, the gripping surface 4246 comprises a rounded portion 4248 proximate the return panel rear end 4238, and an inclined portion 4250 sloped upward and forward from a front edge of the rounded portion 4248 to promote engagement with the user’s fingers.

[0160] The front cladding surface 4232 and the upper cladding surface 4252 both comprise a bonding interface to promote bonding with wall cladding (e.g., tile, wood, vinyl, etc.). The bonding interfaces may comprise a bonding material that adheres well to commonly used cladding adhesive (e.g., construction glues and epoxies). In the illustrated example, the bonding interfaces comprise fleece membranes 4290, 4291 (which may be one continuous membrane sheet).

[0161] The return panel 4234 has a return panel depth 4240 extending from the return panel front end 4236 to the return panel rear end 4238. The base panel 4204 hasa base panel depth 4210 extending from the base panel front end 4206 to the base panel rear end 4208. In the illustrated example, the elongate core 4200 has a core depth 4215 extending from the return panel front end 4236 to the base panel rear end 4208. The return panel depth 4240 is smaller than core depth 4215. In use, an opening for accessing the gripping surface 4246 is provided at least in part by the return panel depth 4240 being smaller than the core depth 4215.

[0162] The protective lip 4262 extends axially along the length of the core and projects upward from the return panel outer surface 4244 at the return panel rear end 4238. The protective lip 4262 has a lip outer surface 4264 directed toward the front panel 4220 and a lip inner surface 4266 opposite the lip outer surface 4264.

[0163] Referring to Figure 11 , another example of a concealed handrail 1100 according to aspects of the present teaching has some similarity to the concealed handrail 100, with like features identified by like reference characters, incremented by 1000. The concealed handrail 1100 is integrated with a finished wall assembly 1102. In the illustrated example, the finished wall assembly 1102 is proximate the entry of a bathtub 1114. In such an example, the concealed handrail 1100 may be grabbed by a user that needs assistance getting into and out of the bathtub 1114. In contrast to the concealed handrail 100 which extends horizontally, the concealed handrail 1100 extends vertically.

[0164] Referring to Figure 12, the finished wall assembly 1102 comprises a support structure 1116 (e.g., one or more pieces of vertically oriented lumber) having a support structure upper surface 1118 and a support structure front surface 1120 oriented perpendicular to the support structure upper surface 1118. With reference to Figures 11 and 12, the finished wall assembly 1102 also includes a primary wall 1158 that is rearwardly offset from the support structure front surface 1120. The primary wall 1158 comprises a wall cladding primary portion 1160 bonded to a wall board 1144 with cladding adhesive 1146. The primary wall 1158 also includes a support structure 1117 that supports the wall board 1144.

[0165] The finished wall assembly 1102 further comprises a wall cladding lower portion 1134 affixed to the support structure front surface 1120. The support structurefront surface 1120 may comprise a bonding interface to promote bonding with the wall cladding lower portion 1134. Any suitable type of bonding interface can be used. The bonding interface may comprise a bonding material that adheres to cladding adhesive. In the illustrated example, the bonding interface comprises a wall board 1122 that is secured to the support structure front surface 1120 (e.g., with a plurality of fasteners). The wall cladding lower portion 1 134 is bonded to an outer surface 1124 of the wall board 1122 with cladding adhesive 1146.

[0166] Referring still to Figure 12, the concealed handrail 1100 comprises the elongate core 3200 of Figure 9, a wall cladding front portion 1136 affixed to the front cladding surface 3232 of the elongate core 3200, and a wall cladding upper portion 1138 affixed to the upper cladding surface 3252 of the elongate core 3200. In the illustrated example, front and rear fasteners 1154a, 1154b pass through a respective one of the front and rear fastener apertures 3268a, 3268b (Figure 9) and into the support structure 1116 to secure the elongate core 3200 to the support structure 1116.

[0167] In the illustrated example, the wall cladding lower portion 1134 and the wall cladding front portion 1136 form a continuous cladded wall surface. The continuous cladded wall surface does not have any gap or interruption at a transition 1135 between the wall cladding lower portion 1 134 and the wall cladding front portion 1136 (see also Figure 11 ). Such a gap would diminish the visual appearance of the finished wall assembly and alert visitors to the presence of the handrail.

[0168] A finger access opening is provided between the wall cladding primary portion 1160 and the return panel rear end 3238. Users can extend their fingers through the access opening to grab the concealed handrail 1100.

[0169] In the illustrated example, the concealed handrail 1100 comprises a wall cladding interior portion 1140 that is bonded to the fleece membrane 3299 with cladding adhesive 1146 (e.g., construction adhesives, epoxies etc.). When secured to the elongate core 3200, at least a portion of the wall cladding interior portion 1140 is laterally rearward of the return panel rear end 3238 to impede visual access of the elongate core 3200. By positioning a portion of the wall cladding interior portion 1140 laterally rearward of thereturn panel rear end 3238, that portion of the wall cladding interior portion 1140 will be visible when a user looks at the handrail 1100 along line-of-sight 1162.

[0170] From an aesthetics perspective, it is preferable for a user to see the wall cladding interior portion 1140 rather than a portion of the elongate core 3200 when looking at the handrail 1 100 along the line-of-sight 1162. For example, the elongate core 3200 may be made of metal whereas the wall cladding interior portion 1 140 may comprise cladding material that matches that of the wall cladding upper portion 1138 and / or the wall cladding primary portion 1160. For this reason, the wall cladding interior portion 1140 is generally secured to the base panel inner surface 3216 between the wall cladding primary portion 1160 and the return panel rear end 3238 so that a user will see the wall cladding interior portion 1140 when looking at the handrail 1 100 along the line-of-sight 1162 (instead of a portion of the elongate core 3200).

[0171] Referring to Figure 15, another example of an elongate core 5200 according to aspects of the present teaching has some similarity to the elongate core 4200, with like features identified by like reference characters, incremented by 1000. In the illustrated example, the elongate core 5200 comprises a base panel 5204, a front panel 5220, and a protective lip 5262.

[0172] The base panel 5204 has a base panel front end 5206, a base panel rear end 5208, a base panel outer surface 5214 and a base panel inner surface 5216. The front panel 5220 has a front panel lower end 5222, a front panel upper end 5224, a front panel outer surface 5226 and a front panel inner surface 5228. A portion of the front panel outer surface 5226 defines a front cladding surface 5232 for supporting wall cladding.

[0173] The protective lip 5262 projects upward from the front panel upper end 5224. The protective lip 5262 has a lip outer surface 5264 and a lip inner surface 5266. In the illustrated example, the lip inner surface 5266 is co-planar with the front panel inner surface 5228 and collectively define a continuous gripping surface 5246. For example, when a user is gripping the gripping surface 5246, the user’s fingers may engage a portion of the front panel inner surface 5228 with the user’s palm engaging the protective lip inner surface 5266 and partially wrapping around the upper end of the protective lip 5268.

[0174] In the illustrated example, the front panel 5220 has a front panel top surface 5316 at the front panel upper end 5224. The front panel top surface 5316 extends from the front panel outer surface 5226 to the lip outer surface 5264. The front panel top surface 5316 defines an upper cladding surface 5252 for supporting wall cladding. The front cladding surface 5232 and the upper cladding surface 5252 may both comprise a bonding interface to promote bonding with wall cladding (e.g., tile, wood, vinyl, etc.). The bonding interfaces may comprise a bonding material that adheres well to commonly used cladding adhesive (e.g., construction glues and epoxies).

[0175] The front panel 5220 has a front panel depth 5318 from the front panel outer surface 5226 to the front panel inner surface 5228. The front panel depth 5318 is deep enough for cladding to be secured to the upper cladding surface 5252. In some examples, the front panel depth 5318 is between 1 cm and 5 cm. More preferably, the front panel depth 5318 is between 2 and 3 cm.

[0176] Referring to Figure 16, another example of an elongate core 6200 according to aspects of the present teaching has some similarity to the elongate core 4200, with like features identified by like reference characters, incremented by 2000. In the illustrated example, the elongate core 6200 comprises a base panel 6204, a front panel 6220, and a return panel 6234.

[0177] The base panel 6204 has a base panel front end 6206, a base panel rear end 6208, a base panel outer surface 6214 and a base panel inner surface 6216. The front panel 6220 has a front panel lower end 6222, a front panel upper end 6224, a front panel outer surface 6226 and a front panel inner surface 6228. A portion of the front panel outer surface 6226 defines a front cladding surface 6232 for supporting wall cladding.

[0178] The return panel 6234 has a return panel front end 6236 joined to the front panel inner surface 6228 proximate the front panel upper end 6224. The return panel 6234 extends rearward from the return panel front end 6236 to a return panel rear end 6238. The return panel 6234 has a return panel inner surface 6242 directed toward the base panel inner surface 6216 and a return panel outer surface 6244 opposite the returnpanel inner surface 6242. A portion of the return panel inner surface 6242 defines a gripping surface 6246 engageable by a user’s fingers.

[0179] The elongate core 6200 has a core height 6320. In the illustrated example, the core height extends from the base panel outer surface 6214 to the front panel top surface 6316. In the illustrated example, the return panel front end 6236 is joined to the front panel inner surface 6228 at a position vertically offset from the front panel upper end 6224 by approximately 25% of the core height 6320. In alternative example, the return panel front end 6236 is joined to the front panel inner surface 6228 at a position vertically offset by 10% to 50% of the core height 6320. In the illustrated example, the portion of the front panel inner surface 6228 above the return panel 6234 defines a rear cladding surface 6322 for supporting wall cladding.

[0180] The return panel 6234, in the illustrated example, performs many of the same functions as the protective lips described above (e.g., protective lips 262, 3262, 4262). In use, the return panel outer surface 6244 abuts a lower edge of the wall cladding secured to the rear cladding surface 6322. The rear edge of the wall cladding may not be smooth to the touch. For example, this edge could include bits of hardened cladding adhesive that extend past the outer edge of the cladding material. Alternatively, or in addition, the rear edge of the wall cladding may comprise sharp edges of cut cladding material. The return panel outer surface 6244 covers the rear edge of the wall cladding secured to the rear cladding surface 6322 and provides a smooth surface for the user’s fingers to grip.

[0181] Alternatively, or in addition, the return panel 6234 can protect the wall cladding secured to the rear cladding surface 6322 by limiting the force that the user can apply to the wall cladding. Applying excessive and / or repeated shear force to the wall cladding could cause some or all of the cladding material to dislodge from the rear cladding surface 6322. In use, the user’s fingers press against the return panel inner surface 6242 instead of pressing against the rear edge of the wall cladding secured to the rear cladding surface 6322.

[0182] In the illustrated example, the front panel 6220 has a front panel top surface 6316 at the front panel upper end 6224. The front panel top surface 6316 extends from the front panel outer surface 6226 to the front panel inner surface 6228. The front panel top surface 6316 defines an upper cladding surface 6252 for supporting wall cladding. The front panel 6220 has a front panel depth 6318 from the front panel outer surface 6226 to the front panel inner surface 6228. The front panel depth 6318 is deep enough to allow cladding to be secured to the upper cladding surface 6252. In some examples, the front panel depth 6318 is between 1 cm and 5 cm. More preferably, the front panel depth 6318 is between 1 and 2 cm.

[0183] The front cladding surface 6232, the upper cladding surface 6252 and the rear cladding surface 6322 may each comprise a bonding interface to promote bonding with wall cladding (e.g., tile, wood, vinyl, etc.). The bonding interfaces may comprise a bonding material that adheres well to commonly used cladding adhesive (e.g., construction glues and epoxies). In the illustrated example, the bonding interfaces comprise fleece membranes 6290, 6291 , 6324 (which may be one continuous membrane sheet).

[0184] Referring to Figure 17, another example of a concealed handrail 7100 according to aspects of the present teaching integrated with a finished wall assembly and has some similarity to the concealed handrail 100, with like features identified by like reference characters, incremented by 7000. In the illustrated example, the finished wall assembly includes a lower wall portion 7106 and a recessed wall portion 7110 above and laterally offset from the lower wall portion 7106.

[0185] The lower wall portion 7106 comprises a support structure 7116, which in the example illustrated, includes at least two spaced apart pieces of vertically oriented lumber (only one of which is visible in Fig. 17). The support structure 7116 includes a support structure front surface 7120 (i.e., the front-facing surfaces of the vertically oriented pieces of lumber). The support structure 7116 may also comprise one or more pieces of horizontally oriented lumber (not shown) that extend between the spaced apartpieces of vertically oriented lumber. The uppermost piece of the horizontally oriented lumber (i.e. , nearest the core) may define a support structure upper surface.

[0186] The lower wall portion 7106 further comprises a wall cladding lower portion 7134 affixed to the support structure front surface 7120. The support structure 7116 may comprise a bonding interface to promote bonding with the wall cladding lower portion 7134. Any suitable type of bonding interface can be used. The bonding interface may comprise a bonding material that adheres to cladding adhesive. In the illustrated example, the bonding interface comprises a wall board 7122 secured to a portion the support structure 7116 underneath the core, such as, horizontally oriented lumber (not shown). Optionally, the wall board 7122 is secured to the elongate core 7200 with a plurality of fasteners 7326. The wall cladding lower portion 7134 is bonded to an outer surface 7124 of the wall board 7122 with cladding adhesive 7146.

[0187] The concealed handrail 7100 comprises an elongate core 7200 secured to the support structure 7116. In the illustrated example, the elongate core 7200 comprises a base panel 7204, a front panel 7220 extending upward from a front end of the base panel 7204, a return panel 7234 extending rearward from an upper end of the front panel 7220, a protective lip 7262 extending forward from the upper end of the front panel 7220, and an optional rear panel 7280 extending upward from a rear end of the base panel 7204.

[0188] The base panel 7204 has a base panel front end 7206, a base panel rear end 7208, a base panel outer surface 7214 and a base panel inner surface 7216. The front panel 7220 has a front panel lower end 7222, a front panel upper end 7224, a front panel outer surface 7226 and a front panel inner surface 7228. A portion of the front panel outer surface 7226 defines a front cladding surface 7232 for supporting wall cladding. In the illustrated example. The front cladding surface 7232 is co-planar with the wall board outer surface 7124.

[0189] In the illustrated example, the concealed handrail 7100 further comprises a wall cladding front portion 7136 affixed to the front cladding surface 7232. The front cladding surface 7232 may comprise a bonding interface to promote bonding the wallcladding front portion 7136. The bonding interface may comprise a bonding material that adheres well to commercially available cladding adhesive. For example, the bonding interface may comprise cementitious foam board, liquid-applied membrane, fleeced foam board, or a combination thereof. In the illustrated example, the bonding interface comprises a fleece membrane 7290 and the wall cladding front portion 7136 is bonded to the fleece membrane 7290 with cladding adhesive 7146. In dry applications, the front cladding surface 7232 may be drywall-ready, i.e. , suitable for bonding to drywall without additional treatment during installation. For example, the front cladding surface 7232 may be prepared to accept adhesive (abraded, etched, primed, or the like) or fasteners for drywall install on-site (i.e., include fastening points).

[0190] In the illustrated example, the wall cladding lower portion 7134 and the wall cladding front portion 7136 form a continuous cladded wall surface. The continuous cladded wall surface does not have any gap or interruption at a transition 7135 between the wall cladding lower portion 7134 and the wall cladding front portion 7136. Such a gap would diminish the visual appearance of the finished wall assembly and alert visitors to the presence of the handrail.

[0191] In the illustrated example, the fleece membrane 7290 covers a transition between the front cladding surface 7232 and the wall board outer surface 7124 to enhance waterproofing. More specifically, in the illustrated example, the fleece membrane 7290 extends from the front panel upper end 7224 to a point past said transition by an overlap distance. The overlap distance may be selected so that the fleece membrane covers the fasteners 7326 used to secure the wall board 7122 to the core 7200. Covering the fasteners 7236 may improve waterproofing. For example, the overlap distance may be between 1 cm and 10 cm.

[0192] The return panel 7234 has a return panel front end 7236, a return panel rear end 7238, a return panel inner surface 7242, and a return panel outer surface 7244. A portion of the return panel inner surface 7242 defines a gripping surface 7246 engageable by a user’s fingers. In an alternative example, the elongate core 7200 does not include a return panel.

[0193] In the illustrated example, the protective lip 7262 projects forward from the front panel outer surface 7226 at the front panel upper end 7224. The protective lip 7262 has a lip outer surface 7264 directed toward the base panel 7204 and a lip inner surface 7266 opposite the lip outer surface 7264. In an alternative example, the elongate core 7200 does not comprise a protective lip.

[0194] The lip outer surface 7264 abuts an upper edge of the wall cladding front portion 7136. The upper edge of the wall cladding front portion 7136 may not be smooth to the touch. For example, this edge could include bits of hardened cladding adhesive 7146 that extend past the outer edge of the cladding material. Alternatively, or in addition, the upper edge of the wall cladding front portion 7136 may comprise sharp edges of cut cladding material. The protective lip 7262 covers the upper edge of the wall cladding front portion 7136 and provides a smooth surface for the user’s fingers to grip. In examples where the bonding interface of the front cladding surface 7232 comprises a wall board (like in Figure 4), the protective lip 7262 covers both the upper edge of the wall board and the upper edge of the wall cladding front portion 7136.

[0195] The lip inner surface 7266 is flush with the return panel outer surface 7244. In the illustrated example, the lip inner surface 7266 and the return panel outer surface 7244 form a continuous planar surface. Optionally, the planar surface may be decorative (e.g., polished metal). Alternatively, in dry environments, the lip inner surface 7266 and / or the return panel outer surface 7244 are “paint-ready”. Paint-ready surfaces are those prepared to accept paint without additional on-site surface treatment (e.g., pre-primed surfaces, conversion coated, abraded, or the like). In alternative examples, a portion of the return panel outer surface 7244 defines an upper cladding surface (like the upper cladding surface 252 of elongate core 200 in Figure 2).

[0196] For wet environments, the elongate core 7200 includes at least one drainage opening for draining liquid that may otherwise be trapped within the core. In the illustrated example, the base panel 7204 includes a drainage opening 7278 for draining liquid therethrough. The drainage opening 7278 may be drilled through the base panel 7204 after the elongate core 7200 is manufactured. In some examples, the base panel7204 includes a plurality of drainage openings 7278 spaced axially apart along the length of the core to provide more places for water to escape. Alternatively, or in addition, one or more drainage openings may be formed in the rear panel lower end 7282. For dry environments, the elongate core 7200 may not have any drainage openings.

[0197] In the illustrated example, the elongate core 7200 comprises a linear coupling 7150 secured to the base panel outer surface 7214 in alignment with the drainage opening 7278. The coupling 7150 may be secured to the base panel outer surface 7214 in any suitable manner (e.g., welding, adhesive, etc.). Elongate cores with multiple drainage openings may have a coupling 7150 for each drainage opening 7278. In the illustrated example, the coupling 7150 is connected to an upstream end of a drainage conduit 7152. A downstream end of the drainage conduit 7152 can be connected to the building’s primary sewer line or the same secondary drainage line as a nearby shower. Alternatively, the downstream end of the drainage conduit 7152 may lead to a small drain hole formed near the bottom of one of the shower’s walls.

[0198] In the illustrated example, the base panel inner surface includes a drainage groove 7328 that extends axially along length of the core 7200. The drainage groove 7328 is in fluid communication with the drainage opening 7278 and assists in directing water to the drainage opening 7278.

[0199] The rear panel 7280 has a rear panel lower end 7282 and a rear panel upper end 7284. The rear panel lower end 7282 is joined to the base panel inner surface 7216 proximate the base panel rear end 7208. In the illustrated example, the drainage opening 7278 is located between the front panel lower end 7222 and the rear panel lower end 7282. The front and rear panels 7220, 7280 laterally enclose a liquid collection reservoir 7288 that is in fluid communication with the drainage opening 7278. In the illustrated example, the front panel inner surface 7228 is sloped to direct liquid toward the drainage groove 7328. By directing water to the drainage groove 7328, the sloped front panel inner surface 7228 can help reduce the volume of standing water inside the elongate core 7200.

[0200] Comparing Figure 17 to Figure 2, the rear panel 7280 of elongate core 7200 is taller than the rear panel 280 of elongate core 200. All else being equal, increasing the height of the rear panel 7280 increases the capacity of the liquid collection reservoir 7288. Referring again to Figure 17, the rear panel upper end 7284, in the illustrated example, has an elevation slightly higher than that of the return panel outer surface 7244. In other examples, the rear panel upper end 7284 may have an elevation equal to that of the return panel outer surface 7244 or slightly below.

[0201] The rear panel 7280 has a rear panel inner surface 7285 directed toward the base panel front end 7206 and a rear panel outer surface 7287 opposite the rear panel inner surface 7285. In the illustrated example, a portion of the rear panel inner surface 7285 defines a back cladding surface 7330 for supporting wall cladding.

[0202] In the illustrated example, the concealed handrail 7100 further comprises a wall cladding back portion 7164 affixed to the back cladding surface 7330. Like the other cladding surfaces described herein, the back cladding surface 7330 may comprise a bonding interface to promote bonding the wall cladding back portion 7164. In the illustrated example, the bonding interface comprises a fleece membrane 7332 and the wall cladding back portion 7164 is bonded to the fleece membrane 7332 with cladding adhesive 7146.

[0203] The recessed wall portion 7110 includes a wall cladding recessed portion 7142 bonded to wall board 7144 with cladding adhesive 7146. In the illustrated example, the rear panel upper end 7284 comprises a seat 7334 for supporting the lower end of wall board 7144. In alternative examples, the rear panel upper end 7284 does not include a seat.

[0204] In the illustrated example, the back cladding surface 7330 is co-planar with an outer surface of the wall board 7144. This allows the wall cladding back portion 7164 and the wall cladding recessed portion 7110 to form a continuous cladded wall surface. The continuous cladded wall surface does not have any gap or interruption at a transition 7166 between the wall cladding back portion 7164 and the wall cladding recessed portion7110. Such a gap would diminish the visual appearance of the finished wall assembly and alert visitors to the presence of the handrail.

[0205] Each of the wall cladding lower portion 7134, the wall cladding front portion 7136, the wall cladding recessed portion 7142, and the wall cladding back portion 7164 may comprise the same type of cladding material (e.g., same type of tile). Having the wall cladding lower, front, recessed and back portions 7134, 7136, 7142 and 7164 comprise the same type of cladding material may be preferable from an aesthetics and / or concealment perspective. In alternative examples, the wall cladding lower portion 7134, the wall cladding front portion 7136, the wall cladding recessed portion 7142 and the wall cladding back portion 7164 may comprise different types of cladding material (e.g., tile, vinyl, slab, etc.).

[0206] In the illustrated example, the fleece membrane 7332 covers a transition between the back cladding surface 7330 and the outer surface of wall board 7144 to enhance waterproofing. More specifically, in the illustrated example, the fleece membrane 7332 extends from about the midpoint of the rear panel inner surface 7285 to a point past said transition by an overlap distance. For example, the overlap distance may be between 1 cm and 10 cm.

[0207] In alternative examples where the rear panel 7280 is omitted, the lower edge of the wall board 7144 sits on the base panel 7204. Waterproofing material (e.g., sealant, fleeced membrane, etc.) can be installed on-site during installation of the core, between the base panel inner surface 7216 and the wall board 7144. Alternatively, or in addition, a bonding interface may comprise the fleece membrane 7332 and may be preadhered to the base panel inner surface 7216 during manufacture of the core, with a rearward overhang configured to overlap the wall board 7144 during installation. This arrangement may be advantageous where precise alignment between the rear panel inner surface 7285 and the face of wall board 7144 is impractical, or where full depthadjustment of the elongate core is preferable during on-site installation.

[0208] In the illustrated example, wall cladding is also bonded to the base panel inner surface 7216 to impede visual access to the base panel 7204 of the elongate core7200. The concealed handrail 7100 comprises a wall cladding interior portion 7140 that is bonded to the base panel inner surface 7216 with cladding adhesive 7146 (e.g., construction adhesives, epoxies etc.). The base panel inner surface 7216 optionally comprises a bonding interface (not shown) to promote bonding the wall cladding interior portion 7140. In an alternative example, the base panel inner surface 7216 is kept uncladded (i.e., no cladding is secured thereto). This may provide one or more advantages. For example, by not attaching cladding the base panel inner surface 7216 the installation is simpler and / or quicker. Alternatively, or in addition, with no cladding on the base panel inner surface 7216, the drainage groove 7328 can positioned at a lower elevation for better drainage of the liquid collection reservoir 7288.

[0209] At least a portion of the wall cladding interior portion 7140 is laterally rearward of the return panel rear end 7238 to impede visual access of the elongate core 7200. By positioning a portion of the wall cladding interior portion 7140 laterally rearward of the return panel rear end 7238, that portion of the wall cladding interior portion 7140 will be visible when a user looks at the handrail 7100 along line-of-sight 7156. In the illustrated example, all the wall cladding interior portion 7140 is laterally rearward of the return panel rear end 7238.

[0210] Each of the wall cladding lower portion 7134, the wall cladding front portion 7136, the wall cladding recessed portion 7142, and the wall cladding back portion 7164 may comprise the same type of cladding material (e.g., same type of tile). Having the wall cladding lower, front, recessed and back portions 7134, 7136, 7142 and 7164 comprise the same type of cladding material may be preferable from an aesthetics and / or concealment perspective. The wall cladding interior portion 7140 may also comprise the same type of cladding material as the other wall cladding portions to further improve aesthetics and / or concealment. In alternative examples, the wall cladding lower portion 7134, the wall cladding front portion 7136, the wall cladding recessed portion 7142, the wall cladding back portion 7164, and the wall cladding interior portion 7140 may comprise different types of cladding material (e.g., tile, vinyl, slab, etc.).

[0211] The core 7200 optionally includes a spacing recess 7336 to facilitate positioning the wall board 7122 so that the front cladding surface 7232 is co-planar with the wall board outer surface 7124. In the illustrated example, the spacing recess 7336 is bounded by a top wall 7338 at the front panel lower end 7222 and by a sidewall 7340, perpendicular to the top wall 7338, at the base panel front end 7206. Some contractors choose to work primarily with one consistent type of wall board 7122 throughout all their installations. Since only one type of wall board 7122 is used, the thickness of the wall board 7122 is known for each installation. As an example, if fiberglass sheathing with a inch (1.27 cm) thickness is routinely used as the wall board 7122 across all of a contractor’s installations, the elongate cores 7200 for this contractor may be manufactured having a spacing recess 7336 with a depth of 1.27 cm. In this way, when the inner surface of the wall board 7122 is positioned against the sidewall 7340 of the spacing recess 7336, the wall board outer surface 7124 is co-planar with the front cladding surface 7232.

[0212] In some examples, the elongate core 7200 is secured to a portion of the support structure 7116 located at the axial ends of the core 7200 rather than along its rear or bottom surfaces. This form of core securement is particularly suited to in-wall installations where no rear portion of the support structure is present. Referring to Figure 18, each end of the elongate core 7200 includes a securement bracket 7342 to facilitate securing the core to the support structure 7116. Each bracket 7342 includes a plurality of fastener-receiving apertures 7344 sized to accept fasteners for securing the elongate core 7200 to a vertically oriented portion of the support structure 7116 (e.g., a wall stud). In the illustrated example, each bracket 7342 includes six fastener-receiving apertures 7344; however, greater or fewer fastener-receiving apertures 7346 can be provided in alternative examples. The elongate cores described herein above (e.g., elongate core 200, 1200, 2200, 3200, 4200, 5200, 6200) may also include end brackets, like brackets 7342, to secure the cores to vertical wall studs instead of, or in addition to, the support structure upper surface.

[0213] Referring again to Figure 17, the elongate core 7200 is secured to the support structure 7116 with fasteners 7346 that pass through respective faster-receiving apertures 7344 of the bracket 7342 and are tightened into the support structure 7116 (e.g., a wall stud). Rotational leverage forces, such as those occurring when a user pulls on the concealed handrail, are transferred to the portions of the support structure 7116 to which the elongate core 7200 is secured. Horizontally oriented portions of the support structure (e.g., 2x4 lumber) resist rotational force through a limited depth (e.g., about 3.5 inches). In contrast, a vertically oriented wall stud may span the full height of the wall, and the effective moment arm is significantly greater when load is transferred vertically. Consequently, securing the core 7200 at its ends to vertically oriented portions of the support structure can increase rotational resistance and / or bypass potential points of failure at connections between horizontal and vertical framing members.

[0214] Referring to Figure 18, each bracket 7342 is, in the illustrated example, a piece of sheet metal that is welded to a respective end of the elongate core 7200. The elongate core 7200 has a first securement panel 7348 joined to and extending downward from the base panel outer surface 7214 along the length of the core. The elongate core 7200 also has a second securement panel 7350 joined to and extending downward from the base panel outer surface 7216 along the length of the core. The second securement panel 7350 is spaced laterally from the first securement panel 7348. Preferably, the base panel 7204 and first and second securement panels 7348, 7350 are of unitary construction. The first securement panel 7348, the second securement panel 7350, and the portion of the base panel 7204 between the first and second securement panels 7348, 7350 define a channel 7352 (hidden in Fig. 18 but shown in Fig. 19). An upper portion of each bracket 7342 is positioned within the channel and welded to the inner surfaces of first and second securement panels 7348, 7350. The upper portion of each bracket 7342 is optionally welded to the base panel outer surface 7214. In alternative examples, each bracket 7342 is rigidly mounted to a respective end of the elongate core with mechanical fasteners (e.g., bolts) or other connection means.

[0215] The first securement panel 7348 includes a plurality of optional apertures 7354 to facilitate securing the wall board 7122 to the elongate core 7200. In the illustrated example, adjacent ones of the apertures 7354 are axially spaced apart along the length of the core. The wall board 7122 is, in the illustrated example, secured to the elongate core 7200 with fasteners 7326 that pass through respective apertures 7354.

[0216] Returning to Figure 17, the elongate core 7200 optionally includes one or more accessory mounts for securing accessories to the core. The accessory mounts comprise features that enable selective attachment and detachment of one or more accessories. In the illustrated example, the one or more accessory mounts comprise threaded apertures 7356 that are axially spaced apart along the length of the core. Adjacent ones of the threaded apertures 7356 may be spaced apart at a regular interval (e.g., every 10 cm) or may be spaced apart at an irregular interval (e.g., threaded apertures more concentrated at a specific location of the core). In other examples, the one or more accessory mounts include one or more dedicated engagement features (e.g., shelf retaining groove 245 of Fig. 14) formed on the elongate core and an accessory (e.g., shelf 500) includes a corresponding mating feature (e.g., shelf bracket 504) configured to engage the dedicated engagement feature. Alternative forms of accessory mount may include clamps, latches, slots, dovetails, magnetic or adhesive elements, frictional fit, surface conformity, or intermediate adapters shaped to engage the geometry of the core. In each example, attachment occurs exclusively through this mutual interface, such that accessories are connectable to the elongate core solely through the dedicated engagement feature.

[0217] The threaded apertures 7356 can be formed in any suitable location. In the illustrated example, the threaded apertures 7356 are formed in the return panel rear end 7238. In other examples, the threaded apertures 7356 may be formed in the front panel inner surface 7228. The threaded apertures 7356 may be tapped after the core is manufactured (e.g., post extrusion). In some examples, the apertures 7356 include threaded inserts to reinforce strength of the core material.

[0218] In the illustrated example, a shelf 7500 is secured to the elongate core 7200 by a bolt 7358 that is passed through an opening in the shelf and tightened into the threaded aperture 7356. When engaged with the elongate core 7200, the shelf 7500 has a shelf upper surface 7502 with an elevation substantially equal to that of the return panel outer surface 7244. With an elevation substantially equal to that of the return panel outer surface 7244, the shelf upper surface 7502 can assist supporting user items that would be too large for the return panel outer surface 7244 to support on its own (e.g., large bottles of shampoo).

[0219] Referring to Figure 19, another example of an elongate core 7200’ according to aspects of the present teaching is identical to the elongate core 7200 but for the inclusion of end caps 7360 in place of the brackets 7342. In the illustrated example, each end cap 7360 includes a plurality of fastener-receiving apertures 7344 for receiving the fasteners that secure the elongate core 7200 to the support structure (e.g., a vertical stud). Like the brackets 7342, each end cap 7360 includes six fastener-receiving apertures 7344; however, greater or fewer fastener-receiving apertures 7344 can be provided in alternative examples.

[0220] In the illustrated example, each end cap 7360 is a piece of sheet metal that is welded to a respective end of the elongate core 7200’. Each end cap 7360 is welded to the base, front, and rear panels 7204, 7220 and 7280 and encloses the liquid collection reservoir 7288 (Figure 17) from a respective end of the core. In alternative examples, the end caps 7360 are secured to a respective end of the core 7200’ with adhesive and / or mechanical fasteners such as screws. Although not illustrated, the other examples of elongate cores described herein may also include similar end caps. In alternative examples, each end cap 7360 is included to enclose the liquid collection reservoir and does not include any fastener-receiving apertures. In further alternative examples, an elongate core includes both brackets 7342 and end caps 7360.

[0221] In the illustrated example, each end cap 7360 includes a drainage opening 7278. When secured to the core, the drainage opening 7278 aligns with a respective end of the drainage groove 7328 (Fig. 18). Liquid can exit the core 7200 by flowing into thedrainage groove 7328 and then out through the drainage opening 7278 in the end cap 7360. Having drainage openings 7278 in the ends caps 7360 can avert the need to have drainage openings elsewhere on the core.

[0222] Referring to Figure 20, a double-sided handrail 8100 according to aspects of the present teaching includes concealment features that facilitate integrating the handrail with a finished wall assembly 8102. In the illustrated example, the finished wall assembly 8102 is a free-standing wall assembly. Free-standing wall assemblies are often used to create separate areas within the same room. For example, a free-standing wall assembly may be installed in a bathroom to separate a shower from a toilet. It may be advantageous to have a concealed handrail on both sides of the free-standing wall.

[0223] In the illustrated example, the free-standing wall assembly 8102 forms part of the perimeter of a shower 8104 and includes a lower wall portion 8106 and a pane of glass 8168 supported above the lower wall portion 8106. The concealed handrail 8100, in the illustrated example, is integrated with the upper end of the lower wall portion 8106. In alternative embodiments, the free-standing wall assembly 8102 does not include a pane of glass.

[0224] Referring to Figure 21 , the handrail 8100 includes an elongate core 8200 that has some similarity to the elongate core 7200, with like features identified by like reference characters, incremented by 1000. The elongate core 8200 has features that facilitate installation of the double-sided handrail 8100. In the illustrated example, the elongate core 8200 is symmetric about a central line 8364 that divides the core into a first half 8366 and a second half 8368. For the sake of brevity, only the features of the first half 8366 of the elongate core 8200 are described below. In alternative examples, the elongate core 8200 is not symmetric about the central line 8364.

[0225] The lower wall portion 8106 comprises a support structure 8116, which in the example illustrated, includes at least two spaced apart pieces of vertically oriented lumber (only one of which is visible in Fig. 21 ). The support structure 8116 may also comprise one or more pieces of horizontally oriented lumber (not shown) that extend between the spaced apart pieces of vertically oriented lumber.

[0226] The lower wall portion 8106 further comprises a wall cladding lower portion 8134 affixed to the support structure 8116. The support structure 8116 may comprise a bonding interface to promote bonding with the wall cladding lower portion 8134. The bonding interface may comprise a bonding material that adheres to cladding adhesive. In the illustrated example, the bonding interface comprises a wall board 8122 that is secured to the support structure 8116 and is optionally secured to the elongate core 8200 with a plurality of fasteners 8326. The wall cladding lower portion 8134 is bonded to an outer surface 8124 of the wall board 8122 with cladding adhesive 8146.

[0227] In the illustrated example, each end of the elongate core 8200 includes a bracket 8342 to facilitate securing the core to the support structure 8116. The elongate core 8200 comprises a base panel 8204, a front panel 8220 extending upward from a front end of the base panel 8204, and a rear panel 8280 extending upward from a rear end of the base panel 8204. In alternative embodiments, the elongate core 8200 does not have a rear panel. In some examples, the elongate core 8200 includes a return panel and / or a protective lip like any one of return panels and protective lips described herein.

[0228] The base panel 8204 has a base panel front end 8206, a base panel rear end 8208, a base panel outer surface 8214 a base panel inner surface 8216, and a drainage opening 8278 for draining liquid therethrough. In alternative embodiments, the base panel 8204 does not include a drainage opening (i.e. , for use in dry environments).

[0229] The front panel 8220 has a front panel lower end 8222, a front panel upper end 8224, a front panel outer surface 8226 and a front panel inner surface 8228. A portion of the front panel outer surface 8226 defines a front cladding surface 8232 for supporting wall cladding. In the illustrated example, the front cladding surface 8232 is co-planar with the wall board outer surface 8124.

[0230] In the illustrated example, the concealed handrail 8100 further comprises a wall cladding front portion 8136 affixed to the front cladding surface 8232. The front cladding surface 8232 may comprise a bonding interface to promote bonding the wall cladding front portion 8136. In the illustrated example, the bonding interface comprises a fleece membrane 8290 and the wall cladding front portion 8136 is bonded to the fleecemembrane 8290 with cladding adhesive 8146. The wall cladding lower portion 8134 and the wall cladding front portion 8136 form a continuous cladded wall surface without any gaps or interruptions.

[0231] In the illustrated example, the front panel 8220 has a front panel top surface 8316 at the front panel upper end 8224. The front panel top surface 8316 defines an upper cladding surface 8252 for supporting wall cladding. In the illustrated example, the concealed handrail 8100 further comprises a wall cladding upper portion 8138 affixed to the upper cladding surface 8252. The upper cladding surface 8252 may comprise a bonding interface to promote bonding the wall cladding upper portion 8138. In the illustrated example, the bonding interface comprises a fleece membrane 8291 and the wall cladding upper portion 8138 is bonded to the fleece membrane 8291 with cladding adhesive 8146.

[0232] In the illustrated example, at least a portion of the front panel inner surface 8228 defines a rear cladding surface 8322 for supporting wall cladding. In the illustrated example, the concealed handrail 8100 further comprises a wall cladding rear portion 8170 affixed to the rear cladding surface 8322. The rear cladding surface 8322 may comprise a bonding interface to promote bonding the wall cladding rear portion 8170. In the illustrated example, the bonding interface comprises a fleece membrane 8324 and the wall cladding rear portion 8170 is bonded to the fleece membrane 8324 with cladding adhesive 8146. In the illustrated example, the fleece membranes 8290, 8291 , 8324 are one continuous membrane sheet.

[0233] At least a portion of the wall cladding rear surface defines a gripping surface 8246 engageable by a user’s fingers. In use, the inside surface of the user’s fingers engages the gripping surface 8246. The inside surface of the user’s thumb engages the wall cladding front portion 8136, with the palm of the user’s hand overlying the wall cladding upper portion 8138. The user can apply a compressive gripping force to the handrail 8100 by attempting to urge their fingers and thumbs together.

[0234] The rear panel 8280 has a rear panel lower end 8282, a rear panel upper end 8284, a rear panel inner surface 8285 and a rear panel outer surface 8287. In theillustrated example, a portion of the rear panel inner surface 8285 defines a back cladding surface 8330 for supporting wall cladding. In the illustrated example, the concealed handrail 8100 further comprises a wall cladding back portion 8164 affixed to the back cladding surface 8330. In the illustrated example, the wall cladding back portion 8164 is bonded to back cladding surface 8330 with cladding adhesive 8146. Like the other cladding surfaces described herein, the back cladding surface 8330 may comprise a bonding interface to promote bonding the wall cladding back portion 8164.

[0235] In the illustrated example, wall cladding is also bonded to the base panel inner surface 8216 to impede visual access to the base panel 8204 of the elongate core 8200. The concealed handrail 8100 comprises a wall cladding interior portion 8140 that is bonded to base inner surface 8216 with cladding adhesive 8146 (e.g., construction adhesives, epoxies etc.).

[0236] In the illustrated example, each of the wall cladding lower portion 8134, the wall cladding front portion 8136, the wall cladding upper portion 8138, and the wall cladding back portion 8164 comprise the same type of cladding material (e.g., the same tile is used throughout in Figure 20). Having the wall cladding lower, front, upper and back portions 8134, 8136, 8138 and 8164 comprise the same type of cladding material may be preferable from an aesthetics and / or concealment perspective. The wall cladding interior portion 8140 and the wall cladding rear portion 8170 may also comprise the same type of cladding material as the other wall cladding portions to further improve aesthetics and / or concealment.

[0237] In the illustrated example, the rear panel 8280 bears the weight of the pane of glass 8168. The rear panel 8280 has a rear panel top surface 8362 at the rear panel upper end 8284 that supports the lower end of the pane of glass 8168. Optionally, a wall cladding portion 8172 is affixed to the rear panel top surface 8362 via cladding adhesive 8146 and the lower end of the pane of glass 8168 sits on the upper surface of that wall cladding 8172. In other examples, the lower end of the pane of glass 8168 sits directly on the rear panel top surface 8362.

[0238] Referring to Figure 22, a handrail 9100 according to aspects of the present teaching includes concealment features that facilitate integrating the handrail with a finished wall assembly 9102. In the illustrated example, the finished wall assembly 9102 is a vertical wall assembly. The vertical wall assembly may be a wall of any room in which mobility assistance is needed (e.g., wall of a bathroom, mud room, etc.). Alternatively, the vertical wall assembly may be an external wall of a residence.

[0239] Referring to Figure 23, the handrail 9100 is mounted to and extends forward of the vertical wall assembly 9102. The vertical wall assembly 9102 comprises a support structure 9116, which in the example illustrated, includes multiple spaced apart pieces of vertically oriented lumber (only one of which is visible in Fig. 23). The vertical wall assembly 9102 further comprises a wall cladding primary portion 9160 affixed to the support structure 9116. The support structure 9116 may comprise a bonding interface to promote bonding with the wall cladding primary portion 9160. In the illustrated example, the bonding interface comprises a wall board 9122 that is secured to the support structure 9116. The wall cladding primary portion 9160 is bonded to an outer surface 9124 of the wall board 9122 with cladding adhesive 9146.

[0240] The handrail 9100 includes an elongate core 9200 that has some similarity to the elongate core 7200, with like features identified by like reference characters, incremented by 2000. The elongate core 9200 comprises a base panel 9204, a front panel 9220 extending upward from a front end of the base panel 9204, a protective lip 9262 projecting upward from an upper end of the front panel 9220, and a rear panel 9280 extending downward from a rear end of the base panel 9204. In some examples, the elongate core 9200 includes a return panel like any one of the return panels described herein.

[0241] The elongate core 9200 can be secured to a support structure in any suitable fashion. For example, the elongate core 9200 may extend the entire length of the vertical wall assembly (wall-to-wall) and be secured to opposed walls with end caps or brackets (e.g., see brackets 7342 and ends caps 7360 in Figures 18 and 19, respectively). In the illustrated example, the rear panel 9820 includes a plurality of securementapertures 9372 to facilitate securing the elongate core 9200 to the support structure 9116. Preferably, adjacent ones of the securement apertures 9372 are axially spaced apart along the length of the core. The elongate core 9200 is, in the illustrated example, secured to the support structure 9116 with fasteners 9374 that pass through respective securement apertures 9372 formed in the rear panel 9280.

[0242] The rear panel 9280 has a rear panel lower end 9282, a rear panel upper end 9284, a rear panel inner surface 9285 and a rear panel outer surface 9287. The rear panel upper end 9284 is joined to the base panel outer surface 9214 at the base panel rear end 9208. The rear panel 9280 extends downward from the rear panel upper end 9284 to the rear panel lower end 9282. In the illustrated example, the rear panel inner surface 9285 defines a back cladding surface 9330 for supporting wall cladding and the rear panel outer surface 9287 provides a bearing surface for bearing against a front surface of the support structure 9116. The concealed handrail 9100, in the illustrated example, further comprises a wall cladding back portion 9164 affixed to the back cladding surface 9330. Like the other cladding surfaces described herein, the back cladding surface 9330 may comprise a bonding interface to promote bonding the wall cladding back portion 9164.

[0243] In the illustrated example, the wall board 9122 is divided into upper and lower portions 9122a, 9122b that are separated by a gap. The rear panel 9280 is secured to the support structure 9116 within the gap prior to installing the wall cladding back portion 9164 and the wall cladding primary portion 9160. This may be advantageous from an aesthetic and / or concealment perspective as the rear panel 9280 is integrated into the vertical wall assembly 9102 and not visible. In alternative examples, the elongate core 9200 is secured to the vertical wall assembly 9102 with wall cladding already installed thereon. In such examples, the fasteners 9374 may extend through respective apertures 9372 in the rear panel 9280, the wall cladding primary portion 9160 and the wall board 9122 before penetrating the support structure 9116.

[0244] In the illustrated example, the back cladding surface 9330 is co-planar with the wall board outer surface 9124. This allows the wall cladding back portion 9164 andthe wall cladding primary portion 9160 to form a continuous cladded wall surface below the base panel 9204. The continuous cladded wall surface does not have any gap or interruption at a transition 9370 between the wall cladding back portion 9164 and the wall cladding primary portion 9160.

[0245] Should the securement apertures 9372 in the rear panel 9280 be positioned at an elevation between the front panel upper and lower ends, the front panel 9220 could obstruct an installer’s ability to drive a fastener through the securement aperture 9372 and into the support structure 9116. Having the rear panel 9280 extend downward from the base panel 9204 simplifies securing the elongate core 9200 to the support structure 9116 since the front panel 9220 is less of an obstruction. In alternative examples, the rear panel 9280 projects upward from the base panel 9204, the rear panel upper end 9284 is elevated above the front panel top surface 9316, and the securement apertures 9372 are formed in a portion of the rear panel upper end 9284 above the front panel top surface 9316.

[0246] In the illustrated example, the elongate core 9200 does not include any drainage openings. In alternative examples, the elongate core 9200 includes drainage openings for draining liquid therefrom. As an example, one or more drainage openings can be provided in the form of cutouts in the base panel 9204. As another example, the elongate core 9200 may include a drainage opening and / or a drainage groove like any one of the drainage openings and drainage grooves described herein.

[0247] The base panel 9204 has base panel front end 9206, a base panel rear end 9208, a base panel outer surface 9214 and a base panel inner surface 9216. The front panel 9220 has a front panel lower end 9222, a front panel upper end 9224, a front panel outer surface 9226 and a front panel inner surface 9228. In the illustrated example, the entire front panel outer surface 9226 defines a front cladding surface 9232 for supporting wall cladding.

[0248] In the illustrated example, the concealed handrail 9100 further comprises a wall cladding front portion 9136 affixed to the front cladding surface 9232. The front cladding surface 9232 may comprise a bonding interface to promote bonding the wallcladding front portion 9136. In the illustrated example, the bonding interface comprises a fleece membrane 9290 and the wall cladding front portion 9136 is bonded to the fleece membrane 9290 with cladding adhesive 9146.

[0249] In the illustrated example, a portion of the front panel lower end 9222 extends downward from the base panel outer surface 9114. This can be advantageous from an aesthetic and / or concealment perspective as it allows a lower portion of the wall cladding front portion 9136 to obstruct view of the base panel outer surface 9114 at certain angles. Other examples may not have a front panel with a portion that extends downward from the base panel outer surface.

[0250] In the illustrated example, the front panel 9220 has a front panel top surface 9316 at the front panel upper end 9224. The front panel top surface 9316 defines an upper cladding surface 9252 for supporting wall cladding. In the illustrated example, the concealed handrail 9100 further comprises a wall cladding upper portion 9138 affixed to the upper cladding surface 9252. The upper cladding surface 9252 may comprise a bonding interface to promote bonding the wall cladding upper portion 9138. In the illustrated example, the bonding interface comprises a fleece membrane 9291 and the wall cladding upper portion 9138 is bonded to the fleece membrane 9291 with cladding adhesive 9146. The fleece membranes 9290 and 9291 are, in the illustrated example, one continuous membrane sheet.

[0251] In the illustrated example, each of the wall cladding primary portion 9160, the wall cladding front portion 9136, the wall cladding upper portion 9138, and the wall cladding back portion 9164 comprise the same type of cladding material (e.g., the same tile is used throughout in Figure 22). Having the wall cladding primary, front, upper and back portions 9160, 9136, 9138 and 9164 comprise the same type of cladding material may be preferable from an aesthetics and / or concealment perspective.

[0252] In the illustrated example, the protective lip 9262 projects upward from the front panel upper end 9224. The protective lip 9262 has a lip outer surface 9264 and a lip inner surface 9266. The lip outer surface 9264 abuts a rear edge of the wall cladding upper portion 9138. The lip inner surface 9266 is flush with the front panel inner surface9228 and collectively define a continuous gripping surface 9246. For example, when a user is gripping the gripping surface 9246, the user’s fingers may engage a portion of the front panel inner surface 9228 with the user’s palm engaging the protective lip inner surface 9266 and partially wrapping around the upper end of the protective lip 9262.

[0253] In the illustrated example, the elongate core 9200 includes a supplemental protective lip 9376 that projects forward from the front panel lower end 9222. The protective lip 9376 has an upper surface that abuts a lower edge of the wall cladding front portion 9136. The protective lip 9376 covers the lower edge of the wall cladding front portion 9136 and provides a smooth surface.

[0254] In the illustrated example, the elongate core 9200 includes a plurality of threaded apertures 9356 that are axially spaced apart along the length of the core. As previously described, one or more accessories can be mounted to the elongate core 9200 with the threaded apertures 9356. The threaded apertures 9356 are formed in the front panel inner surface 9228 proximate the front panel upper end 9224.

[0255] Some of the accessories that can be mounted to the elongate core 9200 include grip-aiding accessories. In the illustrated example, a rounded-grip accessory 9378 is secured to the elongate core 9200 by a bolt 9358 that is passed through an opening in the accessory 9378 and tightened into the threaded aperture 9356. When mounted, the rounded-grip accessory 9378 can provide an ergonomic gripping surface as it contours to the user’s hand.

[0256] What has been described above is intended to be illustrative of examples of the teaching disclosed herein, without limiting the scope of patent claims granted therefrom. The scope of such claims should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with the description as a whole.

Claims

CLAIMS:1 . In combination, a finished wall assembly and a concealed handrail: a) the finished wall assembly comprising: a support structure having a support structure front surface; and a wall cladding lower portion affixed to the support structure front surface; and b) the concealed handrail comprising: an elongate core secured to the support structure, wherein the elongate core comprises: a base panel extending axially along a length of the core and laterally between a base panel front end and a base panel rear end, the base panel having a base panel outer surface and a base panel inner surface opposite the base panel outer surface; a front panel having a front panel lower end extending axially along the length of the core and joined to the base panel inner surface proximate the base panel front end, the front panel extending upward from the front panel lower end to a front panel upper end, the front panel having a front panel outer surface directed away from the base panel rear end and a front panel inner surface opposite the front panel outer surface, at least a portion of the front panel outer surface defining a front cladding surface; and a return panel having a return panel front end extending axially along the length of the core and joined to the front panel inner surface proximate the front panel upper end, the return panel extending rearward from the return panel front end to a return panel rear end, the return panel having a return panel inner surface directed toward the base panel inner surface and a return panel outer surfaceopposite the return panel inner surface, at least a portion of the return panel inner surface defining a gripping surface engageable by user fingers, the return panel having a return panel depth extending from the return panel front end to the return panel rear end, wherein the return panel depth is smaller than a depth of the elongate core; and a wall cladding front portion affixed to the front cladding surface, wherein the wall cladding lower and front portions form a continuous cladded wall surface.

2. The combination of claim 1 , wherein at least a portion of the return panel outer surface defines an upper cladding surface, and a wall cladding upper portion is affixed to the upper cladding surface of the return panel.

3. The combination of claim 2, wherein each of the front cladding surface and upper cladding surface comprise a bonding interface to promote bonding with a respective one of the wall cladding front portion and the wall cladding upper portion.

4. The combination of claim 2 or 3, wherein the elongated core further comprises a protective lip projecting upward from the return panel outer surface proximate the return panel rear end, the protective lip having a lip outer surface directed toward the front panel and abutting a rear edge of the wall cladding upper portion.

5. The combination of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the support structure has a support structure upper surface that is oriented generally perpendicular to the support structure front surface, and at least a portion of the base panel outer surface bears against the support structure upper surface.

6. The combination of claim 5, wherein the base panel includes a plurality of fastener apertures for securing the elongate core to the support structure, and adjacent ones of the plurality of fastener apertures are axially spaced apart along the base panel.

7. The combination of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the support structure includes a plurality of spaced apart vertical wall studs, and both ends of the elongate core comprisea securement bracket to secure the elongate core to a respective one of the vertical wall studs.

8. The combination of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the base panel, the front panel and the return panel are of unitary construction.

9. The combination of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the elongate core comprises at least one drainage opening for draining liquid from the concealed handrail, and each of the at least one drainage opening is spaced rearwardly of the front panel outer surface.

10. An elongate core for a concealed handrail, wherein the elongate core is securable to a support structure and comprises: a base panel extending axially along a length of the core and laterally between a base panel front end and a base panel rear end, the base panel having a base panel outer surface and a base panel inner surface opposite the base panel outer surface; a front panel having a front panel lower end extending axially along the length of the core and joined to the base panel inner surface proximate the base panel front end, the front panel extending upward from the front panel lower end to a front panel upper end, the front panel having a front panel outer surface directed away from the base panel rear end and a front panel inner surface opposite the front panel outer surface, at least a portion of the front panel outer surface defining a front cladding surface for supporting wall cladding; a return panel having a return panel front end extending axially along the length of the core and joined to the front panel inner surface proximate the front panel upper end, the return panel extending rearward from the return panel front end to a return panel rear end, the return panel having a return panel inner surface directed toward the base panel inner surface and a return panel outer surface opposite the return panel inner surface, at least a portion of the return panel inner surface defining a gripping surface engageable by user fingers, the return panel having a return panel depth extending from the return panel front end to the return panel rear end, wherein the return panel depth is smaller than a depth of the elongate core; andone or more drainage openings for draining liquid from the elongate core in use, wherein each of the one or more drainage openings is spaced rearwardly from the front panel outer surface.11 . The elongate core of claim 10, further comprising a protective lip projecting forward from the front panel outer surface at the front panel upper end, the protective lip having a lip outer surface directed toward the base panel for abutting an upper edge of the wall cladding.

12. The elongate core of claim 10, wherein at least a portion of the return panel outer surface defines an upper cladding surface for supporting additional wall cladding.

13. The elongate core of claim 12, further comprising a protective lip projecting upward from the return panel outer surface proximate the return panel rear end, the protective lip having a lip outer surface directed toward the front panel for abutting a rear edge of the additional wall cladding.

14. The elongate core of claim 12 or 13, wherein the upper cladding surface comprises a bonding interface to promote bonding with the additional wall cladding.

15. The elongate core of any one of claims 10 to 14, wherein the front cladding surface comprises a bonding interface to promote bonding with the wall cladding.

16. The elongate core of any one of claims 10 to 15, further comprising a rear panel having a rear panel lower end extending axially along the length of the core and joined to the base panel inner surface, the rear panel extending upward from the rear panel lower end to a rear panel upper end, wherein at least a lower portion of the front and rear panels laterally enclose a liquid collection reservoir in fluid communication with the one or more drainage openings.

17. The elongate core of claim 16, wherein the rear panel has a rear panel inner surface directed toward the base panel front end and a rear panel outer surface opposite the rear panel inner surface, at least a portion of the rear panel outer surface providing abearing surface for bearing against a front surface of the support structure, the rear panel including a plurality of securement apertures for securing the elongate core to the support structure.

18. The elongate core of any one of claims 10 to 16, wherein at least a portion of the base panel outer surface provides a bearing surface for bearing against an upper surface of the support structure, and the base panel includes a plurality of fastener apertures for securing the elongate core to the support structure.

19. The elongate core of any one of claims 10 to 16, further comprising a securement bracket at both ends thereof for securing the elongate core to a vertically oriented portion of the support structure.

20. The elongate core of any one of claims 10 to 19, wherein the base panel, the front panel, and the return panel are of unitary construction.21 . The elongate core of any one of claims 10 to 20, wherein the one or more drainage openings are formed in the base panel.

22. An elongate core for a concealed handrail, wherein the elongate core is securable to a support structure and comprises: a base panel extending axially along a length of the core and laterally between a base panel front end and a base panel rear end, the base panel having a base panel outer surface and a base panel inner surface opposite the base panel outer surface; a front panel having a front panel lower end extending axially along the length of the core and joined to the base panel inner surface proximate the base panel front end, the front panel extending upward from the front panel lower end to a front panel upper end, the front panel having a front panel outer surface directed away from the base panel rear end and a front panel inner surface opposite the front panel outer surface, at least a portion of the front panel outer surface defining a front cladding surface for supporting wall cladding;an upper cladding surface for supporting additional wall cladding, wherein the upper cladding surface is oriented generally perpendicular to the front cladding surface; and a protective lip projecting upward from the upper cladding surface, the protective lip having a lip inner surface directed toward the base panel rear end and a lip outer surface opposite the lip inner surface for abutting a rear edge of the additional wall cladding.

23. The elongate core of claim 22, wherein the front panel has a front panel top surface at the front panel upper end, the upper cladding surface comprising the front panel top surface.

24. The elongate core of claim 23, wherein the lip inner surface is co-planar with the front panel inner surface and collectively define a continuous gripping surface.

25. The elongate core of claim 22, further comprising a return panel having a return panel front end extending axially along the length of the core and joined to the front panel inner surface proximate the front panel upper end, the return panel extending rearward from the return panel front end to a return panel rear end, the return panel having a return panel inner surface directed toward the base panel inner surface and a return panel outer surface opposite the return panel inner surface, the upper cladding surface comprising the return panel outer surface.

26. The elongate core of claim 25, wherein at least a portion of the return panel inner surface defines a gripping surface engageable by user fingers.

27. The elongate core of claim 25 or 26, wherein the protective lip projects upward from the return panel outer surface proximate the return panel rear end.

28. The elongate core of any one of claims 22 to 27, wherein the base panel, the front panel, and the protective lip are of unitary construction.

29. The elongate core of any one of claims 22 to 28 wherein at least a portion of the base panel outer surface provides a bearing surface for bearing against an upper surface of the support structure and the base panel includes a plurality of fastener apertures for securing the elongate core to the support structure.

30. The elongate core of any one of claims 22 to 28, further comprising a securement bracket at both ends thereof for securing the elongate core to a vertically oriented portion of the support structure.

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