Abstract:
Implementations of the present invention relate to devices, systems, and methods related to mounting decorative slats. In particular, the present invention facilitates accurate mounting and installation of a decorative multi-slat system, which can provide aesthetic enhancement for a particular space. Furthermore, the method of installing the decorative multi-slat system can allow an installer to reduce likelihood of errors and misalignments of the system, which can occur during the installation.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/591,180, filed Jan. 26, 2012, entitled “Decorative Multi-Slat System.” The present application also claims the benefit of priority to and is a continuation-in-part of: U.S. Design Application No. 29/411,794, filed Jan. 26, 2012, entitled “MULTI-SLAT ARCHITECTURAL PANEL SYSTEM” and U.S. Design Application No. 29/411,835, filed Jan. 26, 2012, entitled “INTEGRATED PANEL CLIP.” The entire content of each of the above-referenced applications is incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. The Field of the Invention 
     This invention relates to systems, methods, and apparatus for mounting and/or displaying panels. 
     2. Background and Relevant Art 
     Recent trends in building and interior design have implemented synthetic, polymeric resins, which may be used as doors, partitions, barriers, displays, shelving, tables, and other structures. Generally, resin materials are now popular compared with decorative cast or laminated glass materials, since resin materials can have higher strength and/or impact resistance than a similar transparent, translucent, or colored laminated glass. Decorative panels also can provide more design flexibility than, for example, glass panels. Furthermore, decorative resins provide a wide range of uses, since they can include a large variety of artistic colors, images, shapes, and other aesthetic impressions. 
     Designers and builders typically use various mounting systems to display various panels, including thermoplastic resin panels, in desired configurations. An installer can use posts to secure the panels in an upright position to form a partitioning system. Similarly, an installer can make shelving units by securing the desired panels horizontally to the post modules. Conventional mounting systems, however, present numerous challenges with various types of installations. For example, the designer desiring to install multiple panels, such as slats, at predetermined positions along a support surface, typically relies on the skill of the installer and may not be able to ensure the desired installation. 
     Accordingly, there are a number of disadvantages in mounting and displaying panels and slats that can be addressed. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     Implementations of the present invention provide systems, methods, and apparatus for mounting and displaying decorative panels and slats. One or more implementations provide a decorative slat that can couple to one or more support rails. Such decorative slats can present a viewer with a pleasing aesthetic. The decorative slats also can form a decorative multi-slat system that can further enhance overall aesthetic of a particular space. Moreover, the decorative multi-slat system can help a designer to ensure a proper installation of the decorative slats, according to a predetermined design. The decorative multi-slat system and method also can facilitate proper and accurate installation of the decorative slats, in accordance with the predetermined design. 
     At least one implementation includes a decorative multi-slat system for use in an architectural environment to provide, among other things, a pleasing aesthetic to viewers. Such system includes a support surface and a plurality of support rails secured to the support surface, each support rail of the plurality of support rails having a plurality of slits passing therethrough. Additionally, the system includes a plurality of decorative slats. Each decorative slat of the plurality of decorative slats is positioned within corresponding slits of the plurality of slits. Furthermore, each of the decorative slats is fixedly coupled to the plurality of support rails. Also, each of the one or more decorative slats is coupled to the plurality of support rails at a predetermined position, and each of the one or more decorative slats is coupled to the plurality of support rails at a predetermined orientation relative to the plurality of support rails. 
     Implementations of the present invention also include a method of installing a decorative multi-slat system. The method includes attaching a first support rail to a support surface and securing one or more second support rails to one or more decorative slats, the one or more second support rails being detached from the support surface. The method also includes securing the one or more decorative slats to the first support rail. Moreover, the method includes attaching the one or more second support rails to the support surface. 
     One or more implementations include a decorative slat configured for coupling to one or more support rails. The decorative slat incorporates a material sheet having a back edge and a plurality of cutouts in the material sheet near and passing through the back edge thereof. The decorative slat also includes a plurality of connection elements coupled to or integrated with the material sheet. Each of the plurality of connection elements is sized and configured to couple the material sheet to the one or more support rails. The decorative slat further includes at least one centering element coupled to or integrated with the material sheet. The at least one centering element is sized and configured to press against at least one support rail of the one or more support rails in a manner that positions the material sheet at a predetermined position relative to the one or more support rails. 
     Additional features and advantages of exemplary implementations of the invention will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by the practice of such exemplary implementations. The features and advantages of such implementations may be realized and obtained by means of the instruments and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. These and other features will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of such exemplary implementations as set forth hereinafter. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       In order to describe the manner in which the above-recited and other advantages and features of the invention can be obtained, a more particular description of the invention briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof which are illustrated in the appended drawings. For better understanding, the like elements have been designated by like reference numbers throughout the various accompanying figures. Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are not therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which: 
         FIG. 1  illustrates a perspective view of a decorative multi-slat system in accordance with one implementation of the present invention; 
         FIG. 2A  illustrates a side view of a decorative slat in accordance with one implementation of the present invention; 
         FIG. 2B  illustrates an enlarged partial side view of the decorative slat of  FIG. 2A ; 
         FIG. 3A  illustrates a bottom view of a support rail in accordance with one implementation of the present invention; 
         FIG. 3B  illustrates a cross-sectional view of the support rail of  FIG. 3A  taken along the line  3 B- 3 B of  FIG. 3A ; 
         FIG. 3C  illustrates another cross-sectional view of the support rail of 
         FIG. 3A  taken along the line  3 C- 3 C of  FIG. 3A ; 
         FIG. 4  illustrates a cross-sectional view of a decorative multi-slat system in accordance with one implementation of the present invention; 
         FIG. 5A  illustrates a perspective view of a decorative multi-slat system in accordance with another implementation of the present invention; 
         FIG. 5B  illustrates a perspective view of a decorative multi-slat system in accordance with yet another implementation of the present invention; 
         FIG. 5C  illustrates a perspective view of a decorative multi-slat system in accordance with a further implementation of the present invention; 
         FIG. 5D  illustrates a perspective view of a decorative multi-slat system in accordance with an additional implementation of the present invention; 
         FIG. 6  illustrates a perspective view of a decorative multi-slat system in accordance with yet another implementation of the present invention; 
         FIG. 7A  illustrates a perspective view of a decorative multi-slat system in accordance with still one other implementation of the present invention; 
         FIG. 7B  illustrates a perspective cross-sectional view of an act in an installation procedure of the decorative multi-slat system of  FIG. 7A  in accordance with still one other implementation of the present invention; 
         FIG. 7C  illustrates a perspective cross-sectional view of another act in an installation procedure of the decorative multi-slat system of  FIG. 7A  in accordance with still one other implementation of the present invention; 
         FIG. 7D  illustrates a perspective cross-sectional view of yet one other act in an installation procedure of the decorative multi-slat system of  FIG. 7A  in accordance with still one other implementation of the present invention; 
         FIG. 8  illustrates a perspective view of a decorative multi-slat system in accordance with one or more implementations of the present invention; 
         FIG. 9  illustrates a perspective view of a decorative multi-slat system in accordance with another implementation of the present invention; and 
         FIG. 10  illustrates a chart of a method for installing a decorative multi-slat system in accordance with one implementation of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     Implementations of the present invention provide systems, methods, and apparatus for mounting and displaying decorative panels and slats. One or more implementations provide a decorative slat that can couple to one or more support rails. Such decorative slats can present a viewer with a pleasing aesthetic. The decorative slats also can form a decorative multi-slat system that can further enhance overall aesthetic of a particular space. Moreover, the decorative multi-slat system can help a designer to ensure a proper installation of the decorative slats, according to a predetermined design. The decorative multi-slat system and method also can facilitate proper and accurate installation of the decorative slats, in accordance with the predetermined design. 
     In at least one implementation, the decorative panels or slats can include locating sections, which can couple to one or more support rails. For instance, the decorative slats and the support rails can couple at predetermined locations. Moreover, the decorative slats can have various elements that can secure the decorative slats to the support rails. For example, the decorative slats can snap to the support rails at predetermined locations, chosen by a manufacturer or designer. 
     A plurality of decorative slats coupled to one or more support rails can form a decorative multi-slat system. In particular, the designer can choose specific desired arrangements (i.e., lateral position, vertical position, spacing, etc.) of the decorative slats. Such system can provide various aesthetically pleasing designs, as may be desired by a builder or an occupant of a space. Moreover, the decorative multi-slat system can provide additional support and/or rigidity to the support surface or structure. Accordingly, the builder can install such system for aesthetic and/or structural improvements to the space. 
     The builder can assemble and secure the decorative multi-slat system on a support surface, as described above. At least one implementation provides a method of installing the decorative multi-slat system, which can ensure proper mounting and installation and can require a less skill to implement. Accordingly, the method can provide flexibility of design and ensure accuracy in the installation of such design. 
     An exemplary decorative multi-slat system is illustrated in  FIG. 1 . Particularly,  FIG. 1  illustrates a decorative multi-slat system  100  that includes multiple rectangular decorative slats or panels  110 . The decorative multi-slat system  100  also includes support rails  120  (e.g., support rails  120   a , support rail  120   b , and support rail  120   c ) that secure one or more decorative slats  110 . It should be appreciated that, as further described below, the decorative multi-slat system  100  can include any number of decorative slats  110 , which can have any suitable shape, configuration, color, size, and combinations thereof. Moreover, the decorative slats can form various patterns and can have various orientations relative to each other and/or relative to surrounding elements or components. 
     In one instance, the installer can secure the support rails  120  to a support surface  130 , as further described below. For example, the decorative slats  110  can have a predetermined spacing one from another, which the designer or manufacturer can determine and preset or fix prior to installation. In other words, the manufacturer can supply an installation kit that has limited possible installation configurations of the decorative multi-slat system  100  (e.g., by limiting possible installations positions of the decorative slats  110 ). Presetting or predefining positions of the decorative slats  110  can reduce or eliminate errors, such as misalignment and incorrect spacing of the decorative slats  110 , which can otherwise occur during the installation or mounting of the decorative multi-slat system  100 . 
     As noted above, the decorative multi-slat system  100  can incorporate various and variously sized decorative slats  110 , which can allow for a wide variety of different configurations and styles. Similarly, the decorative multi-slat system  100  also can incorporate a single support rail  120  or multiple support rails  120 . For example, the designer may choose the number of support rails based on aesthetic considerations for a particular space, structural considerations for supporting the decorative slats  110  and/or the support surface  130 , as well as a combination thereof. 
     In a number of implementations, the support rails  120  can support and secure the decorative slats  110  in a substantially vertical orientation, as illustrated in  FIG. 1 . Additionally or alternatively, the support rails  120  can secure the decorative slats  110  in other orientations, such as angled or horizontal. It should be appreciated that the support rail  120  can secure the decorative slats  110  at any desired angle relative to any surface or relative to a reference surface. For instance, the decorative slats  110  and/or the support rail  120  can have a desired orientation relative to the support surface  130 . 
     Implementations of the present invention can allow the designer to choose to secure the support rails  120  to a vertical support surface  130  (e.g., a wall), to a horizontal support surface (e.g., ceiling, floor, roof, etc.), or to an angled or tilted support surface. Moreover, the designer can orient at least a portion of the decorative slats  110  and/or the support rail  120  to be substantially parallel with such support surface  130 . 
     Additionally, the support rails  120  can couple to the support surface  130  at any number of angles with respect to one or more edges of the support surface  130 . In one example, the designer or installer can orient the support rails  120  to be substantially parallel with a bottom edge of a vertical  130 , such as a wall (e.g., the support rails  120  can be substantially parallel with a floor abutting the vertical wall). In additional or alternative examples, the support rails  120  can couple to the vertical support surface  130  at a 45° with respect to a bottom edge of thereof—i.e., at a 45° angle relative to the floor that abuts the vertical wall. 
     In at least one implementation, the support rails  120  can secure the decorative slats  110  such that the decorative slats  110  substantially maintain their original shape. In other words, connection points between the support rails  120  and the decorative slats  110  can coincide with an original geometry of the decorative slats  110 . Thus, for instance, the installer can secure substantially flat decorative slats  110  to the support rails  120  in a manner that the decorative multi-slat system  100  has substantially flat (or straight) decorative slats  110 , as illustrated in  FIG. 1 . 
     Alternatively, the installer can secure the decorative slats  110  to the support rails  120  in a manner that bends, deforms, or otherwise changes the shape of the decorative slats  110 . In particular, one or more of the connection points of the decorative slats  110  with the support rails  120  may not coincide with the original geometry of the decorative slats  110 . For instance, the installer may secure a flat decorative slat  110  at three connection points; two of such connection points may be in-line and one connection point may be offset. Accordingly, after connecting to the support rails  120 , the decorative slats  110  can bend and/or deform (plastically or elastically) to have at least partially arcuate or bent shape. 
     In one or more implementations, decorative slats  110  can have specific connection points, at which the decorative slats  110  can couple to the support rails  120 . As noted above, such connection points can define orientation of the decorative slats  110  and whether connecting the decorative slats  110  to the support rail  120  will deform or bend the decorative slats  110 . In one example, predetermined connection points (i.e., connection points fixed or preset by the manufacturer) also can allow the manufacturer to simplify installation of the decorative multi-slat system  100 , such as by limiting the number of possible connections of the decorative slats  110  with the support rail  120 . Hence, predetermined connection points can reduce or eliminate instances of incorrect installation of the decorative multi-slat system  100 . 
       FIGS. 2A and 2B  illustrate on exemplary implementation of the decorative slat  110  as well as portions of the connection points located thereon. Specifically,  FIGS. 2A and 2B  illustrate the decorative slat  110  that comprises substantially rectangular sheet material. Such sheet material can have any suitable thickness, as may be desired by the designer or installer. 
     For example, the sheet material can be approximately ¼″ thick. It should be noted that the sheet material can have any number of suitable shapes and outer dimension, which can correspond with the shape and outer dimension of the decorative slat  110  formed from such sheet. For instance, the sheet material can have a wave-like, an elliptical, or an irregular shape. Likewise, the sheet material (and the decorative slat  110 ) can have any number of profiles (e.g., flat, wavy, curving, bent). 
     In one or more implementations, the decorative slats  110  also can have a plurality of cutouts  140  (e.g., cutouts  140   a ,  140   b ,  140   c ). For instance, in the implementation illustrated in  FIG. 2A , the decorative slat  110  has three cutouts  140   a ,  140   b ,  140   c . It should be appreciated, however, that the decorative slat  110  can have any number of cutouts  140 , which can vary from one implementation to the next, and which may depend, for instance, on the length, width, and rigidity of the decorative slat  110 , among other factors. 
     Such cutouts  140  can have shape, size, and configuration that can fit about the support rails at a designated location. In at least one instance, the cutouts  140  can fit about the support rail in a manner that the decorative slat  110  is substantially immobilized relative to the support rail (i.e., such that the decorative slat  110  cannot move relative to the support rail). Thus, after coupling to the support rail, the decorative slat  110  can remain in a predetermined and substantially fixed position and/or orientation. 
     In one implementation, the cutouts  140  can fit over at least a portion of the support rails. Furthermore, the portions of the support rail that accepts the cutouts  140  can have a shape and size that form slip or loose fit within the cutouts  140 . In other words, the cutouts  140  and the corresponding portions of the support rail can have sufficient clearance therebetween to allow the installer to couple the decorative slats  110  to the support rail. Accordingly, misalignment or imprecise placement of the support rail relative to the decorative slats  110  may not impede completing the installation of the decorative multi-slat system. Furthermore, increased clearance between the cutouts  140  and corresponding portions of the support rail can relax precision requirements for the cutouts  140  and/or for the corresponding portions of the support rails, which can reduce manufacturing cost. 
     In other implementations, the cutouts  140  can have an interference fit with the corresponding portions of the support rail. Such fit can help secure the decorative slats  110  to the support rails as well as to limit or prevent movement of the decorative slats  110  relative to the support rails. For instance, press-fitting the cutouts  140  of the decorative slats  110  onto the corresponding portions of the support rails can reduce movement and/or vibration of the decorative slats  110  that may otherwise occur (e.g., in response to air movement, such as wind or airflow inside a building). In any event, the cutouts  140  can at least in part secure the decorative slats  110  to the support rails. 
     The cutouts  140  also can orient and/or locate the decorative slats  110  relative to the support rails. As such, the cutouts  140  can orient the decorative slats  110  relative to the support surface as well as relative to other surrounding elements or components. For instance, the cutouts  140  can orient and/or secure the decorative slats  110  at a predetermined angle relative to the floor abutting the vertical support surface. 
     In at least one implementation, the cutouts  140  can have a substantially rectangular shape. Specifically, as illustrated in  FIG. 2B , at least one of the cutouts  140  can have at least two substantially straight edges (e.g., top edge  141  and front edge  142 ) that form an approximately 90° angle therebetween. Such sides can orient and/or locate the cutout  140  with the corresponding portion of the support rail at a predetermined angle and/or in a predetermined location. 
     Nevertheless, it should be appreciated that the cutouts  140  can have any number of other suitable shapes, which can vary from one implementation to another. For instance, one or more of the cutouts  140  can have an arcuate shape that can fit over an arcuate shape of the corresponding portion of the support rail, thereby securing, locating, and/or orienting the decorative slats  110  with respect to the support rail. In any event, the cutouts  140  of the decorative slats  110  can fit over corresponding portions of the support rail at predetermined locations thereon. 
     Additionally or alternatively, the decorative slats  110  can incorporate other features and/or elements or components that can help to secure to the support rail. Hence, in at least one implementation, the decorative slats  110  can have connection elements, which can connect the decorative slats  110  to the support rails. In one example, connection elements of the decorative slats  110  are snap-in clips  150 , which can secure the decorative slats  110  to the support rails. The snap-in clips  150  can be coupled to or incorporated with the decorative slats  110  (i.e., in a manner forming a monolithic and/or substantially unitary decorative slats  110  that include the snap-in clips  150 ). 
     The snap-in clips  150  can snap into a channel, a groove, a recess, or a similar cavity in the support rail that can accept and secure the snap-in clips  150  therein, as further described below. Moreover, in at least one implementation, the snap-in clips  150  can be configured in a manner that allows for removal of the snap-in clips  150  from the recess that accepts and secures the snap-in clips  150 . Hence, the decorative slats  110  can be removable from the support rail without damaging the snap-in clips  150 . Alternatively, the snap-in clips  150  can be configured in a manner that restricts removal of the decorative slats  110  from the support rail without damaging or breaking the snap-in clips  150 . 
     The snap-in clips  150  can have a flexible, spring-like configuration that can allow the snap-in clips  150  to flex in response to applied force. Accordingly, the snap-in clips  150  can flex into the recess. The snap-in clip  150  also can have an angled portion  152 , which can allow a corresponding portion of the support rail to deflect the snap-in clip  150  when the installer presses the corresponding portion of the support rail against the snap-in clip  150 . In other words, as the installer presses the angled portion  152  against the corresponding portion of the support rail, the snap-in clip  150  can gradually flex as a contact point of the snap-in clip  150  with the support rail moves along the angled portion  152 . Consequently, the snap-in clip  150  can reach a fully-flexed position, which can allow the installer to press the corresponding portion of the support rail past an uppermost point of the snap-in clip  150  (e.g., apexes  154   a ,  154   b  of the respective snap-in clips  150   a ,  150   b ). 
     As mentioned above, the snap-in clips  150  can be integrated with the decorative slats  110 . Specifically, the decorative slats  110  can have a slot  156  that can form or define a lower edge of the snap-in clips  150 . Furthermore, in at least one implementation, one or more of the cutouts  140  can have a single snap-in clip  150  located therein and/or proximally thereto. For instance, the upper edge as well as the angled portion  152  of the snap-in clips  150  can protrude into the opening formed by the cutouts  140 . Thus, the snap-in clips  150  can flex away from the opening formed by the cutouts  140  as the decorative slat  110  presses against the support rails, which can allow the corresponding portion of the support rail to enter the cutouts  140 . Thereafter, the snap-in clips  150  can flex back into or toward the openings formed by the cutouts  140 , thereby entering the recesses in the support rails and coupling the decorative slats  110  to the support rails. 
     Although in the illustrated implementation each of the cutouts  140  accommodates a single snap-in clip  150 , it should be appreciated that this invention is not so limited. More specifically, the cutouts  140  can have any number of snap-in clips  150  that can at least in part couple the decorative slat  110  to the support rail. Furthermore, multiple snap-in clips  150  can have any number of orientations and locations relative to each other as well as relative to the cutouts  140 , which can vary from one implementation to another. For example, a first snap-in clip can be opposite to a second snap-in clip (e.g., the first snap-in clip positioned on or near a bottom edge of the cutout  140  and a second snap-in clip positioned near the top edge  141  of the cutout  140 ). 
     Also, the snap-in clips  150  can have any number of suitable configurations, shapes, sizes, and combinations thereof. For example, a back edge of the snap-in clip  150  can coincide with a back edge  160  of the decorative slats  110  (e.g., a back edge  158   a  of the snap-in clip  150   b ). Alternatively, the back edge of the snap-in clip  150  can be spaced apart from the back edge  160  (e.g., the back edge  158   b  of the snap-in clip  150   b ). 
     It should be also appreciated that, in at least one implementation, the back edge  160  of the decorative slat  110  can be substantially straight. In additional or alternative implementations, however, the back edge  160  can have any desirable contour (e.g., arcuate or irregular shaped). Moreover, the back edge  160  can have any suitable orientation relative to other edges of the decorative slats  110 , as further described below. Thus, the back edge of the snap-in clip  150  also can conform with the any particular back edge  160  of the decorative slat  110 . 
     As described above, the decorative slats  110  can incorporate multiple cutouts  140 , such as the cutouts  140   a ,  140   b , etc., each of which can include one or more snap-in clips  150  located in the proximity thereof. For example, the cutout  140   a  can include the snap-in clip  150   a  and the cutout  140   b  can include the snap-in clip  150   b  located in the respective proximities thereof. In one or more implementations, respective apexes  154   a ,  154   b  of the snap-in clips  150   a ,  150   b  can align with one another. Hence, for instance, location of the recesses, which can accept the snap-in clips  150   a ,  150   b , on the various support rails can be substantially the same. As such, the support rails of the decorative multi-slat system can be interchangeable with each other, which can reduce manufacturing costs and/or eliminate or reduce installation errors. 
     In at least one implementation, the snap-in clips  150  can have an opening, a hole, and/or a perforation  170 . Hence, the installer can insert a tool into the perforation  170  to press the snap-in clip  150  toward and/or into the fully-flexed position or configuration. Pressing the snap-in clips  150  toward the fully-flexed position can allow the installer to withdraw the snap-in clips  150  from the corresponding recesses in the support rail. Subsequently, the installer can decouple the decorative slat  110  from the support rails. It should be noted that the snap-in clips  150  can remain undamaged after decoupling of the decorative slats  110  from the support rails. Thus, the installer can re-couple the decorative slats  110  to a different set of support rails and/or to the same support rails at different connection points or at a different location. 
     In at least one implementation, the decorative slats  110  have one or more centering elements or springs  180 . The centering elements  180  can be integrated with or coupled to the decorative slats  110 . In one or more exemplary implementations, the decorative slat  110  can have fewer centering elements  180  than cutout  140 . For instance, the decorative slats  110  can have three cutouts  140  and two centering elements  180 . 
     In particular, the decorative slats  110  can have an uppermost connection point (e.g., the cutout  140   a  and the snap-in clip  150   a ) that does not include the centering element  180 . Additionally or alternatively, other connection points may or may not have centering elements  180 , as determined by the manufacturer. In light of this disclosure, those skilled in the art should appreciate that the manufacturer can choose the desired number and locations of the centering elements  180  based on the shape, dimension, material, and design/aesthetic requirements of the decorative slats  110  as well as the decorative multi-slat system  100 . 
     Furthermore, centering elements  180  can have any number of shapes, sizes, and configurations that can vary from one implementation to another. For example, the centering element  180  can have an elongated portion  182 , which can protrude toward and/or into the cutouts  140 . The elongated portion  182  of the centering element  180  can be coupled to or integrated with the decorative slats  110 . 
     In at least one implementation, the decorative slats  110  can have the elongated portion  182  located near the back edge  160  thereof. For instance, the centering element  180  can have the elongated portion  182  located between a back edge of the snap-in clip  150  and the back edge  160  of the decorative slat  110 . In other words, the elongated portion  182  can have gaps or spaces between the back edge of the snap-in clip  150  and the back edge  160  of the decorative slat  110 . Furthermore, the elongated portion  182  of the centering element  180  can be flexible and/or can have spring-like characteristics (i.e., the installer can elastically deform the elongated  182 , which can subsequently return to its original configuration). Thus, the elongated portion  182  can bend or flex into the gaps between the snap-in clip  150  and/or the back edge  160  of the decorative slat  110 . 
     Additionally, the centering element  180  can include an angled head  184 . The angled head  184  can be integrated with or coupled to the elongated portion  182  of the centering element  180 . Together, the elongated portion  182  and the angled head  184  can form an L-shaped centering element  180 . When the installer secures the decorative slat  110  to the support rail, the angled head  184  can press against the support rail, thereby centering the decorative slats  110  relative to the support rail, as further described below. 
     As described above, the snap-in clip  150  can fit into a recess or channel in the support rails and can secure the decorative slats  110  to the support rails. For example, as illustrated in  FIGS. 3A-3C , the support rail  120  can include a snap-in channel  190 . The snap-in clip of the decorative slat can snap into the snap-in channel  190 , thereby coupling or securing the decorative slat to the support rail  120 , as described below in more detail. 
     The snap-in channel  190  can run through the entire support rail  120  or can have interruptions. Additionally or alternatively, the snap-in channel  190  can have various shapes, which can accommodate snap-in clips of multiple decorative panels therein. For example, the snap-in channel  190  can have a substantially rectangular shape. Accordingly, the snap-in clips can have a corresponding shape, such that the snap-in clips can flex out of the fully-flexed position and at least partially fit into the rectangular shape of the snap-in channel  190 . 
     It should be appreciated that the particular shape and size of the snap-in channel  190  can vary from one implementation to the next. For instance, the shape and size may depend on the shape, size, and configuration of the snap-in clips. In any event, however, the snap-in channel  190  can have a suitable configuration to accept and secure the snap-in clips therein. 
     The support rails  120  also can have a plurality of slits  200  that can accept the decorative slats. The slits  200  can locate and position the decorative slats at desired and predetermined positions and/or orientations along the support rails  120 . Accordingly, the builder can reduce the possibility of an installation error, which may result in an inaccurate presentation of the design of the decorative multi-slat system. 
     In at least one implementation, the slits  200  can be substantially perpendicular to a bottom surface  210  of the support rail  120 . Consequently, when coupled to the support rail  120 , the decorative slats also can be substantially perpendicular to the bottom surface  210  of the support rail  120 . Thus, for example, the installer can couple the support rail  120  to a vertical supper surface in a manner that the support rail  120  and/or the bottom surface  210  thereof is substantially parallel with the bottom edge of the vertical support surface (e.g., parallel with the floor abutting the support surface). As such, the installer can then easily couple the decorative slats to the support rail  120 , such that the decorative slats can be substantially perpendicular to the floor. 
     In other implementations, however, the slits  200  can form any suitable angle with the bottom surface  210  of the support rail  120  as well as with any other portion of the support rail  120 . Furthermore, the support rail  120  can include slits  200  positioned at the same or at various angles relative to one another. In one example, all of the slits  200  can be substantially parallel to each other. In other examples, slits  200  can form other angles relative to each other. Moreover, angles between various slits  200  can vary from one pair of adjacent slits  200  to another pair of adjacent slits  200 . 
     Additionally or alternatively, the slits  200  can have widths that are substantially the same (i.e., with minimum clearance) as thicknesses of the decorative slats. Such width can be the same for all of the slits  200  or can vary depending on the particular decorative slats that the builder intends for the corresponding slit  200 . Thus, the decorative multi-slat system  100  can have a configuration that would permit installation of particular decorative slats  110  only within designated slits  200 . 
     Likewise, the slits  200  can have a shape that corresponds with the shape of the portion of the particular decorative slat that fits within the slit  200 . For instance, the slits  200  can be approximately rectangular. In other implementations, the slits  200  can have any suitable shape, such that the decorative slat can have a desired fit within such slit  200 . 
     As described above, the installer can secure the support rails  120  to the support surface. For example, the support rails  120  can include mounting holes  220  that can accommodate such installation. The installer can insert mounting members (e.g., bolts, screws, rivets, etc.) through the mounting holes  220  and can secure the support rails  120  to the support surface  130 . 
     In at least one implementation, the mounting holes can include a counterbore  222 , which can accommodate a head of the mounting member. Accordingly, the installer can submerge or recess the head of the mounting member below a front surface  230  of the support rail  120 . Moreover, the installer can insert a plug into the counterbore  222 , to conceal the mounting member from the viewers of the decorative multi-slat system. 
     It should be appreciated that the installer can secure support rails  120  to the support surface using other fastening elements. For instance, the installer can use an adhesive (e.g., glue, epoxy, etc.) to secure the support rails  120  to the support surface. Moreover, the installer can suspend or hang the support rails  120  (e.g., using hang wires). For example, the installer can secure the support rails  120  with a hang wires to one or more horizontal support surfaces, such as a ceiling and a floor. 
     As described above, the snap-in clip can snap into the snap-in channel  190  of the support rails  120 .  FIG. 4  illustrates a cross-sectional view of the decorative multi-slat system  100  and shows the decorative slat  110  secured to the support rails  120 . Specifically,  FIG. 4  illustrates a transparent decorative slat  110 . As such, the view illustrated in  FIG. 4  shows cross-sectioned support rails  120 , visible through the transparent decorative slat  110 . It should be appreciated, however, that any one of the decorative slats  110  can have any number desirable optical and/or structural characteristics (e.g., transparency, translucency, opaqueness, color, flexibility, strength, etc.). 
     The installer can position and press the decorative slat  110  into slits  200   a ,  200   b ,  200   c  of the support rails  120   a ,  120   b ,  120   c . As the installer further presses the decorative slat  110  into the support rails  120   a ,  120   b ,  120   c , the cutouts  140   a ,  140   b ,  140   c  can fit around or about the support rails  120   a ,  120   b ,  120   c . Accordingly, as mentioned above, the cutouts  140   a ,  140   b ,  140   c  can at least in part define the position and/or orientation of the decorative slats  110  relative to the support rails  120   a ,  120   b ,  120   c.    
     Additionally, as the installer presses the decorative slat  110  into the slits  200   a ,  200   b ,  200   c , the snap-in clips  150   a ,  150 ,  150   c  can flex into the fully-flexed configuration. When the installer presses the decorative slats  110  still further into the support rails  120   a ,  120   b ,  120   c , the snap-in clips  150   a ,  150 ,  150   c  can flex out of the fully-flexed position and into snap-in channels  190   a ,  190   b ,  190   c  of corresponding support rails  120   a ,  120   b ,  120   c , thereby securing the decorative slat  110  to the support rails  120   a ,  120   b ,  120   c.    
     As noted above, the clips snap-in clips  150   a    150 ,  150   c  can comprise spring-like material, which can allow the clips snap-in clips  150   a ,  150 ,  150   c  to flex and return substantially to original configuration after flexing. For example, the snap-in clips  150   a ,  150 ,  150   c  can comprise a suitable thermoplastic material. In particular, as mentioned above, the manufacturer can integrate the snap-in clips  150   a ,  150 ,  150   c  into the decorative slat  110 , which, in turn, can comprise a suitable thermoplastic material, such as polycarbonate. 
     Centering elements  180   a ,  180   b  can provide support, guidance, and centering for the decorative slat  110 , such that the cutouts  140   a ,  140   b ,  140   c  properly fit over respective support rails  120   a ,  120   b ,  120   c . In other words, the centering elements  180   a ,  180   b  can set the cutouts  140   a ,  140   b ,  140   c  at a predetermined position relative to the respective support rails  120   a ,  120   b ,  120   c  (e.g., such that top edges of the cutouts  140   a ,  140   b ,  140   c  rest against the top surface the support rails  120   a ,  120   b ,  120   c ). 
     It should noted that  FIG. 4  shows a gap between the top edges of the cutouts  140   a ,  140   b ,  140   c  and the respective top surfaces of the support rails  120   a ,  120   b ,  120   c  for illustrative purposes only. Specifically, as described above, the top edges of the cutouts  140   a ,  140   b ,  140   c  can abut or press against the top surfaces of the support rails  120   a ,  120   b ,  120   c . Nevertheless, in at least one implementation, the decorative multi-slat system  100  can have a gap between support rails  120  and the top edge of the cutouts  140   a ,  140   b ,  140   c.    
     Additionally, the cutouts  140   a , cutouts  140   b , cutouts  140   c  can include clearances with respect to the corresponding portions of the support rails  120  (i.e., the cutouts  140   a , cutouts  140   b , cutouts  140   c  can be bigger than the corresponding portions of the support rails  120 ). Thus, centering elements  180   b ,  180   c  can allow the installer to position and locate the decorative slat  110  at predetermined position with respect to the top surfaces of the support rails  120   a ,  120   b ,  120   c . Locating and/or centering of the decorative slats  110  with respect to the support rails  120  with the centering elements  180   a ,  180   b  can ensure accurate positioning of the decorative slats  110  within the decorative multi-slat system  100 . 
     Furthermore, the centering elements  180   a ,  180   b  can allow the manufacturer to provide additional clearance in any of the cutouts  140   a ,  140   b ,  140   c , which can reduce time and/or complexity of the decorative multi-slat system  100  installation. More specifically, the centering elements  180   a ,  180   b  can have spring-like properties, as described above, and can force the top edges of the cutouts  140   a ,  140 ,  140   c  against the top surface of the support rails  120 . Accordingly, the centering elements  180   a ,  180   b  can position the decorative slats  110  in a predetermined location (defined by one or more edges of the cutouts  140   a ,  140   b ,  140   c ) irrespective of the clearance between the cutouts  140   a ,  140   b ,  140   c  and the corresponding support rails  120 . 
     In one or more implementations, the uppermost cutout  140   a  of a given slat decorative slat  110  may not include a centering element, while the cutouts  140   b ,  140   c  may have respective centering elements  180   b ,  180   c . This can allow the installer to decorative slat  110  as a guide for positioning the support rails, as described below in greater detail. 
     As described above, the centering elements  180  can have an L-shaped form. The angled head of the centering element  180  can allow the centering element  180  to flex gradually, as the installer presses the decorative slat  110  into the support rail  120 .  FIG. 4  illustrates the centering element  180  flexed into a fully-flexed configuration. When in the fully-flexed configuration, the centering elements  180  can continuously apply force onto the support rails  120 , pressing the top edges of the cutout cutouts  140  against the top surface of the support rails  120   s.    
     Similar to the snap-in clips  150 , the centering elements  180  can comprise a suitable thermoplastic material, which can allow the centering elements  180  to flex and remain in the flexed position while applying force onto the support rails  120 . For example, the centering elements  180  can comprise polycarbonate, PETG, PMMA, thermoplastic or other suitable thermoplastic materials. In any event, the elongated portions and/or the angled heads of the centering elements  180  can flex in a manner that allows the centering element s 180  to press against the support rails  120 . 
     In light of this disclosure, those skilled in the art should appreciate that this invention is not limited to L-shaped centering elements  180 . For example, the centering elements  180  can comprise a post and a spring (e.g., a coil compression spring) that can sit on the post, and which can press against the support rail  120 . Additionally or alternatively, the support rail  120  can incorporate centering elements on or near the bottom surface thereof. Such centering elements can press against the decorative slats  110  in a manner that presses the top edges of the cutouts  140   a ,  140   b ,  140   c  against the top surface of the support rails  120   a ,  120   b ,  120   c . In any event, the decorative multi-slat system  100  can include centering elements that can position the decorative slats  110  relative to the support rails  120  (e.g., by pressing the top edge of the cutouts  140  against the top surfaces of the support rails  120 ). 
     As described above, the support rails  120  can have various configurations for securing the decorative slats  110  in the decorative multi-slat system  100 . For example, as illustrated in  FIGS. 5A-5C , decorative multi-slat systems  100   d ,  100   e ,  100   f  can incorporate support rails  120   d ,  120   e ,  120   f  that have a track-like configuration. In one implementation, as illustrated in  FIG. 5A , the decorative multi-slat system  100   d  can involve a single support rail  120   d  that can secure a single decorative slat  110   d . Except as otherwise described herein, the decorative multi-slat system  100   d  and its components and/or elements can be similar to or the same as the decorative multi-slat system  100  ( FIGS. 1-4 ). 
     Particularly, as shown by  FIG. 5A , the support rail  120   d  can have a channel (e.g., a T-slot or T-shaped channel) that can accept mounting brackets  240  (such as mounting brackets  240   a ,  240   b ). In turn, the mounting brackets  240  can couple to the decorative slats  110   d . For example, the mounting brackets  240  can have a channel formed by opposing plates; such channel can accept and secure the decorative slats  110   d  therein. Thus, the mounting brackets  240  can couple the decorative slats  110   d  to the support rail  120   d.    
     Furthermore, the installer can secure the support rail  120   d  to the support surface at any location and in any orientation. Similarly, the installer can secure the decorative slats  110   d  at any location or position along a length of the support rail  120   d . The installer also can secure multiple support rails  120   d  that hold respective decorative slats  110   d , which together can form the decorative multi-slat system  100   d . Such decorative multi-slat system  100   d  can have any number of configurations and arrangements that can vary from one implementation to the next (e.g., spacing between the decorative slats  110   d , orientation of the decorative slats  110   d , etc.). 
     Alternatively, multiple support rails can secure one or more decorative slats. For example,  FIG. 5B  illustrates the decorative multi-slat system  100   e  that includes support rails  120   e , which can secure decorative slats  110   e  at various locations and orientations. The decorative multi-slat system  100   e  and its components and/or elements can be similar to or the same as the decorative multi-slat system  100  and/or decorative multi-slat system  100   d  ( FIGS. 1-5A ) and their respective components and/or elements, except as otherwise described herein. In one or more implementations, the decorative slats  110   e  can have a substantially orthogonal orientation relative to the support rail  120   e . Alternatively, the decorative slats  110   e  can have other angled orientation (e.g., the mounting brackets can off set such that decorative slat  110   e  forms a non-orthogonal angle with respect to the support rails  120   e ). 
     Moreover, in light of this disclosure, those skilled in the art should appreciate that the mounting bracket can slidably couple to the support rails  120   e . As such, the installer can slide the mounting brackets along the support rails  120   e  into a desired position prior to, or after, securing the decorative slats  110   e  to the mounting brackets. Once located at the desired position, the installer can fix the mounting brackets to the support rails  120   e . Additionally, the mounting brackets can allow the installer to selectively change or alter the installation by moving the decorative slats  110   e  along the support rail  120   e.    
     As noted above, the decorative slats may incorporate mounting elements or connection elements, such as snap-in clips and/or centering elements. In at least one implementation, as illustrated in  FIG. 5C , the decorative slats  110   f  can have integrated mounting elements  240   f ′,  240   f ″. The decorative multi-slat system  100   f  and all of its components and/or elements can be similar to or the same as any one of the decorative multi-slat systems  100 ,  100   d ,  100   e  ( FIGS. 1-5B ) and their respective components and/or elements, except as otherwise described herein. 
     For instance, the decorative slats  110   f  can include integrated mounting elements  240   f ′,  240   f ″ that comprise respective cutouts  140   f ′,  140   f ′ and slots  250   f ′,  250 ′. As such, the integrated mounting elements  240   f ′,  240   f ′ can slide into and/or couple within respective channels  260   f ′,  260   f ′ of support rails  120   f . Furthermore, the installer can arrange and/or position the decorative slats  110   f  relative to the support rails  120   f  in any number of ways. 
     In one example, the decorative multi-slat system  100   f  can include multiple decorative slats  110   f  arranged with predetermined spaces or gaps therebetween. For instance, the decorative multi-slat system  100   f  can incorporate spacer blocks  270   f ′,  270   f ″, which can fit into the respective channels  260   f ′,  260   f ″ of the support rails  120   f . The spacer blocks  270   f ′,  270   f ″ can have a predetermined width that can define spacing between the decorative slats  110   f . Specifically, the installer can position the spacer blocks  270   f ′,  270   f ″ between adjacent decorative slats  110   f  to provide a fixed and predetermined separation or gaps therebetween. 
     In one implementation, the spacer blocks  270   f ′,  270   f ″ can have substantially the same width. Thus, the adjacent decorative slats  110   f  can have a substantially parallel orientation relative to each other. Alternatively, however, the spacer block  270   f ′ can be wider than the spacer block  270   f ″ (or vice versa). Consequently, adjacent decorative slats  110   f  can have angled or non-parallel orientation relative to each other. 
     In one or more instances, the installer can fix relative positions and orientations of the decorative slats before mounting the decorative slats on the support surface. For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 5D , a decorative multi-slat system  100   g  can include decorative slats  110   g  that can mount to strips  280   g . Except as otherwise described herein, the decorative multi-slat system  100   g  as well as all of the components and/or elements thereof can be similar to, or the same as, any one of the decorative multi-slat systems  100 ,  100   d ,  100   e ,  100   f  ( FIGS. 1-5C ) and their respective components and/or elements. In one or more implementations, mounting brackets  240   g  can couple the decorative slats  110   g  to the strips  280   g.    
     For instance, the manufacturer can fabricate the strips  280   g  with predetermined mounting locations for the mounting brackets  240   g . Accordingly, the installer can secure the decorative slats  110   g  to the strips  280   g  at such predetermined mounting locations. For example, the decorative slats  110   g  can have recesses  290   g  that can accept and secure mounting brackets  240   g . In one implementation, a fastener can pass through the decorative slat  110   g  and through the mounting bracket  240   g  (located in the recess  290   g ), thereby securing the mounting bracket  240   g  to the decorative slat  110   g.    
     Similarly, the installer can secure the mounting brackets  240   g  to the strips  280   g  with one or more fasteners. As noted above, the manufacturer can prefabricate the strips  280   g  that include predetermined locations (e.g., holes) for the fasteners. Accordingly, the mounting brackets  240   g  can couple the decorative slats  110   g  to the strips  280   g  at predetermined locations and at predetermined orientations relative to each other as well as relative to the strips  280   g.    
     The strips  280   g , in turn, can slide into and/or couple to support rail  120   g . For instance, the support rails  120   g  can have T-slots that can secure the strips  280   g  to the support rails  120   g . Additionally or alternatively, the installer can secure the strips  280   g  to the support rails  120   g  with fasteners. Moreover, the support rails  120   g  can have predetermined fastening locations, such that the strips  280   g  can couple to the support rails  120   g  at know or predetermined locations. As such, the manufacturer can limit the number of possible installation configurations, which can reduce potential errors during the installation of the decorative multi-slat system  100   g . Also, as described above, the installer can mount or secure the support rails  120   g  to the support surface in any number of suitable ways. 
     In one or more implementations, as mentioned above, the support surface can be vertical (e.g., a wall of or in a building). This invention, however, is not so limited. The decorative multi-slat systems and/or components thereof can couple to support surfaces having any number of orientations or positions. Among other orientations, the support surfaces that, for example, secure the support rails can have horizontal orientation (e.g., a ceiling, a floor, etc.) or slanted orientation (e.g., a slanted wall or a slanted ceiling). Still further, the decorative multi-slat systems can extend along a ceiling and then turn down a wall. 
     Furthermore, implementations of the present invention can include decorative multi-slat systems without support rails. For instance, as illustrated in  FIG. 6 , a decorative multi-slat system  100   h  can incorporate hanging wires  300   h , which can secure decorative multi-slat system  100   h  between opposing support surfaces. Except as otherwise described herein, the decorative multi-slat system  100   h  as well as all of the components and/or elements thereof can be similar to, or the same as, any one of the decorative multi-slat systems  100 ,  100   d ,  100   e ,  100   f ,  100   g  ( FIGS. 1-5D ) and their respective components and/or elements. Accordingly, the decorative slats  110   h  can couple to the hang wires  300   h  directly. As described above, in alternative implementations, the decorative slats  110   h  can couple to the hanging wires  300   h  through the support rails. 
     In at least one implementation, the installer can make perforations in the decorative slats  110   h  that can accommodate the hanging wires  300   h . As such, the installer can position decorative multi-slat system  100   h  between two support surfaces, suspending the decorative slats  110   h  on the hanging wires  300   h . For example, the hanging wires  300   h  can couple to posts  310   h  that, in turn, can couple to respective support surfaces. It should be appreciated that the posts  310   h  can couple to the support surfaces in a similar manner as the support rails, as described above. 
     Such support surfaces can be parallel to each other. It should be noted, however, that such support surfaces can have any suitable orientation relative to each other. In any event, the decorative multi-slat system  100   h  can have a vertical, horizontal, or angled orientation relative to the support surface and/or relative to any other reference surface. 
     As mentioned above, the hanging wires also can couple and/or support the support rails that secure decorative slats. For instance, as illustrated in  FIG. 7A  a decorative multi-slat system  100   i  can incorporate support rails  120   i  that secure decorative slats  110   i . Except as otherwise described herein, the decorative multi-slat system  100   i  as well as all of the components and/or elements thereof can be similar to, or the same as, any one of the decorative multi-slat systems  100 ,  100   d ,  100   e ,  100   f ,  100   g ,  100   h  ( FIGS. 1-6 ) and their respective components and/or elements. 
     In one implementation multiple hanging wires  300   i  can secure the support rails  120   i  to a support surface. Specifically, the hanging wires  300   i  can couple or connect to posts  310   i , which can couple to a desired support surface. For instance, the installer can secure the decorative multi-slat system  100   i  to a horizontal support surface, such as a ceiling. Furthermore, in one or more implementations, the installer can orient the decorative slats  110   i  substantially parallel to the support surface. Alternatively, the installer can vary the length of the different hanging wires  300   i  so that the decorative multi-slat system  100   i  is orientated at an angle to the ceiling. 
     Implementation of the present invention also can include the decorative slats  110   i  that have cutouts or holes  112   i  passing therethrough, in a manner that creates perforations or holes in the decorative slats  110   i . The support rails  120   i  can pass through the holes  112   i , such that the installer can secure the support rails  120   i  within the holes  112   i , as described in further detail bellow. Moreover, as further described below, the support rails  120   i  can allow the installer to secure the decorative slats  110   i  thereto at predetermined locations, which can reduce or eliminate installation errors. 
     For example, as illustrated in  FIGS. 7B-7D , the installer can insert the support rail  120   i  into the hole  112   i  and can, subsequently, secure the support rail  120   i  to the decorative slat  110   i . In particular, as illustrated in  FIG. 7B , the installer can insert a portion of the support rail  120   i  into the hole  112   i  of the decorative slat  110   i . In at least one implementation, the support rail  120   i  can have first and second halves  122   i ,  124   i . Specifically, the first and second halves  122   i ,  124   i  can fit together, such that the support rails  120   i  can fit into the holes  112   i.    
     Moreover, the first and second halves  122   i ,  124   i  can have a sliding coupling, such that the installer can move the first and second halves  122   i ,  124   i  relative to each other, such as to increase the overall outside perimeter or cross-section of the support rail  120   i . The first and second halves  122   i ,  124   i  also can have a guided movement, relative to each other. In other words, as the first and second halves  122   i ,  124   i  move away or toward each other, the movement can occur along a predetermined trajectory. 
     The support rail  120   i  also can include opposing slits  126   i ,  128   i  similar to the slit  200 . In particular, portions of the decorative slat  110   i  that surround the holes  112   i  can fit into the opposing slits  126   i    128   i . For instance, as illustrated in  FIG. 7C , the installer can move the first and second halves  122   i ,  124   i  of the support rail  120   i  away from each other, such that the opposing slits of the support rail  120   i  engage and couple to the decorative slat  110   i  within the hole  112   i . Furthermore, the support rail  120   i  can have the opposing slits positioned at predetermined distances from one another. As such, the installer can couple the decorative slats  110   i  at predetermined distance and locations along the support rails  120   i.    
     In one implementation, the support rail  120   i  can incorporate a separation mechanism, such as a fastener, which can push the first and second halves  122   i ,  124   i  away from each other. The first and/or second halves  122   i ,  124   i  can at least partially conceal the fastener, such that the fastener is at least partially not visible to the viewer of the decorative multi-slat system. Furthermore, the support rail  120   i  can include any number of suitable separation mechanisms, which can vary from one implementation to another. For instance, the support rail  120   i  can include wedges that can spread apart the first and second halves  122   i ,  124   i  to a desired separation therebetween. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 7D , The installer also can secure the hanging wires  300   i  to the support rails  120   i , which can allow the installer to secure the decorative multi-slat system to the support surface. For instance, a stopper  320   i  can couple to the hanging wires  300   i  and can prevent movement of the hanging wires  300   i  relative to the support rails  120   i  in at least one direction. Additionally, the stopper  320   i  can fit inside of the support rails  120   i , such that the support rails  120   i  at least partially conceals the stopper  320   i  therein. Also, as mentioned above, the hanging wires  300   i  can couple to the posts  310   i , which can secure the decorative multi-slat system to the support surface. 
     As noted above, the decorative slats  110   i  can have a substantially parallel orientation relative to the support surface. It should be appreciated, however, that this invention is not so limited. Specifically, the decorative slats can have any number of orientations relative to the support surface. Furthermore, the support rail also can have numerous orientations within the decorative slat, such as to allow the installer to secure the decorative multi-slat system at essentially any desirable orientation and/or location relative to one or more support surfaces. 
     For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 8 , a decorative multi-slat system  100   j  can couple to opposing support surfaces. Except as otherwise described herein, the decorative multi-slat system  100   j  as well as all of the components and/or elements thereof can be similar to, or the same as, any one of the decorative multi-slat systems  100 ,  100   d ,  100   e ,  100   f ,  100   g ,  100   h ,  100   i  ( FIGS. 1-7A ) and their respective components and/or elements. In particular, the hanging wires  300   j  can pass through and couple to the support rails  120   j . Moreover, posts  310   j  can secure hanging wires  300   j  to the opposing support surfaces. 
     As such, the decorative multi-slat system  100   j  can include multiple decorative slats  110   j  secured to the support rails  120   j , which can have a substantially orthogonal orientation relative to the opposing support surfaces (e.g., the decorative multi-slat system  100   j  can form a divider). Furthermore, as noted above, the decorative slats  110   j  and the support rails  120   j  can be the same as the decorative slats  110   i  and support rails  120   i  ( FIG. 7A ). In at least one implementation, however, the decorative slats  110   j  and the support rails  120   j  and have different relative orientation than the decorative slats  110   i  and support rails  120   i  ( FIGS. 7B-7D ). More specifically, the installer can orient the decorative slats  110   j  and the support rails  120   j  in a manner that allows the installer to pass the hanging wires  300   j  through multiple support rails  120   j , as illustrated in  FIG. 8 . 
     In light of this disclosure, those skilled in the art should appreciate that the decorative slats  110   j  and the support rails  120   j  can have any number of suitable orientations relative to each other. Moreover, the holes in the support rails  120   j  as well as cross-sectional shapes of the decorative slats  110   j  can vary from one implementation to another. Accordingly, rotating or positioning and/or orienting the support rails  120   j  within the holes of the decorative slats  110   j  can allow the installer to secure the decorative multi-slat system  100   j  to any number of suitable support surfaces, which can have any orientation relative to each other as well as relative to the decorative multi-slat system  100   j.    
     Moreover, as mentioned above, the decorative slats can have any number of shapes and sizes, which can vary from one implementation to another. Furthermore, shapes of distinct decorative slats within the same decorative multi-slat system can be different from one another. In one or more implementations, as illustrated in  FIG. 9 , the decorative slats can have nonlinearly varying widths, which can form a curved gradient decorative multi-slat system  100   k . For example, the width of the decorative slats  110   k  can have substantially arcuate shape (either concave, convex, or a combination of both, such as an S-shape). Additional implementations include curved or bent decorative slats  110   k . Such decorative slats  110   k  can have continuous or variable curvature. For example, the decorative slats  110   k  can have a curvature that can emulate a wave traveling through the decorative slats  110   k  of the decorative multi-slat system  100   k . Furthermore, the decorative multi-slat system  100   k  also can include serrated, perforated, or otherwise cut decorative slats. 
     Moreover, in at least one additional or alternative implementation, shapes of the decorative slats can vary such as to form a decorative multi-slat system that has a straight gradient configuration. In other words, the decorative multi-slat system can have progressively changing widths of the decorative slats, from one decorative slat to the next decorative slat, along the decorative multi-slat system. For instance, the widths of the adjacent decorative slats in the decorative multi-slat system can decrease and then increase. 
     Similarly, the decorative multi-slat system can have an angular gradient. For instance, widths of one or more portions of the decorative slats can change progressively from one decorative slat to the next (adjacent) decorative slat. Additionally or alternatively, the decorative slats can have changing widths along a length of the decorative slat. The width of the decorative slat can change linearly, creating a sloping, substantially straight edge. 
     The decorative multi-slat system also can include decorative slats that have various colors and design patterns. For instance, the decorative multi-slat system can include decorative slats that have wood-like pattern. Generally, the decorative slats can comprise any suitable material. Hence, in at least one instance, the decorative multi-slat system can incorporate decorative slats made from wood. Additionally or alternatively, the decorative multi-slat system can incorporate decorative slats that have fabric-like pattern, made from fabric, and/or incorporate fabric. 
     The decorative slats also can have various positions and orientations on the support rails. For example the installer can position the decorative slats in a manner that aligns the edges thereof. Alternatively, the installer can choose to stager the decorative slats. 
     The decorative multi-slat system also can have a twisted configuration, such that decorative slats lie in different planes with respect to one another. Alternatively, a decorative multi-slat system with a twisted configuration can have decorative slats that lie in parallel planes, but which have edges positioned at an angle with respect to one another. Accordingly, the twisted decorative multi-slat system can have an in-plane, an out-of-plane, or compound twist formed by the decorative slats therein. 
     In light of this disclosure, those skilled in the art should appreciate that the designer can incorporate various decorative slats into the decorative multi-slat system. Additionally or alternatively, the decorative multi-slat system can span over a desired area of the support surface—e.g., a portion or entire support surface. Moreover, the decorative slats can span over multiple connecting support surfaces. Implementation of the present invention also provide for the decorative multi-slat system that can include translucent decorative slats, which can filter and/or diffuse light. 
     Accordingly,  FIGS. 1-9  and the corresponding text provide a number of different components and mechanisms for creating decorative slats and decorative multi-slat systems. In addition to the foregoing, implementations of the present invention also includes a method of mounting or installing the decorative multi-slat system, which can be described in terms of flowcharts comprising acts and steps in a method for accomplishing a particular result. For example,  FIG. 10  illustrates a flowchart of one exemplary method for installing the decorative multi-slat systems. The acts of  FIG. 10  are described below with reference to the components and diagrams of  FIGS. 1 through 9 . 
     For example,  FIG. 8  shows that a method for installing the decorative multi-slat system  100 ,  100   d ,  100   e ,  100   f ,  100   g ,  100   h ,  100   i ,  100   j ,  100   k  can include an act  330  of attaching a first support rail  120  (e.g., the uppermost support rail  120   a ) to the support surface  130 . In one implementation, the installer can position the support rail  120   a  at a desired location on a vertical support surface  130 . For instance, the installer can orient the support rail  120   a  (e.g., the installer can level the support rail  120   a ), such that the upper surface of the support rail  120   a  is substantially parallel to the floor that abuts the support surface  130 . 
     In one or more implementations, the installer can fasten the support rail  120   a  with screws or anchors to the support surface  130 . Implementations of the present invention also can include an act  340  of securing one or more detached support rails  120  (such as the support rails  120   b ,  120   c , which can be detached from or unconnected to the support surface) to the decorative slats  110 ,  110   d ,  110   e ,  110   f ,  110   g ,  110   h ,  110   i ,  110   j ,  110   k  (or vice versa). In other words, the installer can secure decorative slats  110 ,  110   d ,  110   e ,  110   f ,  110   g ,  110   h ,  110   i ,  110   j ,  110   k  to one or more second support rails. 
     For example, the installer can secure first and second decorative slats  110 ,  110   d ,  110   e ,  110   f ,  110   g ,  110   h ,  110   i ,  110   j ,  110   k  to the support rails  120   b ,  120   c . In one implementation, such first and second decorative slats  110 ,  110   d ,  110   e ,  110   f ,  110   g ,  110   h ,  110   i ,  110   j ,  110   k  can couple to the support rails  120   b ,  120   c  near opposing ends thereof (e.g., near a left end and/or right end of the support rails  120   b ,  120   c ). As such, the first and second decorative slats  110 ,  110   d ,  110   e ,  110   f ,  110   g ,  110   h ,  110   i ,  110   j ,  110   k  can provide proper locations for the support rails  120   b ,  120   c  along the lengths of the decorative slats  110 ,  110   d ,  110   e ,  110   f ,  110   g ,  110   h ,  110   i ,  110   j ,  110   k . In other words, the decorative slats  110 ,  110   d ,  110   e ,  110   f ,  110   g ,  110   h ,  110   i ,  110   j ,  110   k  can set accurate spacing between the support rails  120   b ,  120   c , which can reduce or eliminate misalignment of the support rails  120  and corresponding connection points with the decorative slats  110 ,  110   d ,  110   e ,  110   f ,  110   g ,  110   h ,  110   i ,  110   j ,  110   k.    
     Additionally, the method can include an act  350  of securing the decorative slats  110 ,  110   d ,  110   e ,  110   f ,  110   g ,  110   h ,  110   i ,  110   j ,  110   k  to the first support rail (e.g., support rail  120   a ). It should be noted that in at least one implementation, the installer can perform the act  350  after performing the act  340 . Hence, the first and second decorative slats  110 ,  110   d ,  110   e ,  110   f ,  110   g ,  110   h ,  110   i ,  110   j ,  110   k  can include the detached support rails  120  (e.g., support rails  120   b ,  120   c ) coupled thereto. Accordingly, after the installer secures the first and second decorative slats  110 ,  110   d ,  110   e ,  110   f ,  110   g ,  110   h ,  110   i ,  110   j ,  110   k  to the first support rail  120  (e.g., to the support rail  120   a ), the first and second decorative slats  110 ,  110   d ,  110   e ,  110   f ,  110   g ,  110   h ,  110   i ,  110   j ,  110   k  can have all of the support rails  120  coupled thereto. As such, the first and second decorative slats  110 ,  110   d ,  110   e ,  110   f ,  110   g ,  110   h ,  110   i ,  110   j ,  110   k  can ensure proper spacing between the support rails  120  for securing and additional decorative slats  110 ,  110   d ,  110   e ,  110   f ,  110   g ,  110   h ,  110   i ,  110   j ,  110   k  thereto. 
     The method also can include an act  360  of attaching the detached support rails  120  (e.g., the support rails  120   b ,  120   c ) to the support surface  130 . In some instances, the installer can perform the act  350  before performing the act  360 . Thus, as noted above, the support rails  120  can have proper spacing therebetween for securing additional decorative slats  110 ,  110   d ,  110   e ,  110   f ,  110   g ,  110   h ,  110   i ,  110   j ,  110   k . Therefore, the installer can fasten or secure the support rails  120   b ,  120   c  to the support surface  130 , while the decorative slats  110 ,  110   d ,  110   e ,  110   f ,  110   g ,  110   h ,  110   i ,  110   j ,  110   k  can ensure proper spacing between the support rails  120 , which remains substantially fixed. Thereafter, the installer can secure additional decorative slats  110 ,  110   d ,  110   e ,  110   f ,  110   g ,  110   h ,  110   i ,  110   j ,  110   k  to the support rails  120 , to complete the installation. 
     The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.