Modular grid panel retention system

Claim 1

In one of a wall and ceiling assembly, a structure comprising in combination: a. a modular framework capable of being attached to supporting structure in adjacent relation with similar framework, said framework defining at least one panel receptacle having at least one side defined by an extension having a first forward portion and a side wall extending rearwardly from said first forward portion, said side wall having a sloping relation with the framework such that the rear portion of the side wall is spaced apart from a plane passing through the center of said receptacle and perpendicular to said framework less than the forward portion of the rearwardly extending side wall; b. a flange member positioned on the rear portion of the side wall and extending toward the center line of said panel receptacle, said flange member having a first forward surface; c. at least one modular panel nestled within said receptacle and held in position by at least one separable fastening device, one member of said fastening device being attached to the first forward surface of said flange member and a mating member attached to a corresponding rear portion of said panel, said fastening members being releasably attached to each other in face-to-face relation; and d. said panel being configured to have at least one portion of a side wall spaced apart from an adjacent rearwardly extending side wall of said receptacle by a distance which facilitates insertion of a tool between the receptacle and panel side walls to initiate separation of said separable fastener members by prying said panel away from said framework to remove said panel.