EA045830B1 - DECORATIVE PANEL INCLUDING IMITATION GROUT - Google Patents

Description

Field of technology to which the invention relates

The invention relates to the field of decorative panels that can be mounted to form a floor, wall or ceiling covering.

State of the art

The flooring can include ceramic tiles or natural stone tiles. The technology of filling the joints between tiles with mortar is known.

Panels are known which are made with a core comprising a plastic material or fibreboard; and which include a decorative top surface. Such panels are known that have a decorative top surface that imitates ceramic tiles or natural stone tiles. To realistically imitate ceramic tiles or natural stone tiles, grouting the joints remains a challenge.

Patent document US 2012/0240502 A1 describes vinyl floor tiles. Vinyl tiles include female and male mating parts to allow for flooring installation. A grout channel is provided between the vinyl floor tiles on the top surface of either the male or female mating portion. Mortar is applied to the grout channel to install vinyl floor tiles.

Patent document WO 2011087704 A1 describes a surface covering of tiles made using synthetic materials and which uses connecting strips that allow the tiles to be connected to each other. Joints can be formed with or without adhesive. When the tiles are connected, there is a gap between adjacent decorative surfaces to allow grout to be applied or to simulate grout in it.

Several approaches have been described in patent documents to simulate the specific connection between panels.

Patent document EP 2281975 A2 discloses a method for producing a decorative groove on a floorboard. The floorboard has a core and a surface layer placed on the upper side of the core. The method includes the steps of passing a floorboard through milling machines, while being secured between chains and belts, creating a decorative groove by at least partially removing material between the edges of the joint on the floorboard, following a parallel with the edges of the joint, from the upper layer so that the underlying layer becomes uncovered and defines a groove surface portion that is substantially parallel to the top side of the floorboard being removed by a rotating tool that is positioned between the chains, and the tool has an axis of rotation that is horizontal with respect to the floorboard.

Patent document US 2004146695 A1 relates to a method for producing a resilient floor and wall. The elastic tiles were individually cut, laid and mechanically embossed on two adjacent edges to create an appearance such that each individual tile had grout lines on two adjacent edges. When a series of these tiles are placed on a floor or wall, the seams between the individual tiles are less visible than when flexible tiles of the prior art are used, having grout lines on all edges of the tiles. This is ensured by the fact that the seams between the tiles according to the present invention are not on the grout lines themselves, but rather adjacent to the grout lines.

Patent document US 2013/0104486 A1 discloses a floor covering including panels having a core of plastic material and at least one cover layer covering the top side of the core. The panels are provided with mutually reciprocal and mutually mating locking profiles on their connected side edges. To form a groove between two connected panels, at least one panel is provided with a milled portion on the upper side of the side edge, with a cover layer cut entirely across the width of the milled portion such that the bottom of the milled portion is formed by the core material.

Patent document WO 2020034436 A1 discloses a plastic floor covering with a beveled edge, which is assembled by connecting a plurality of panels. On the top surface of the panels, at least one side edge is provided with an inclined surface portion, wherein the inclined surface portion is located along the direction of the length of the edge of the panels. Adjacent panels are connected along an inclined part of the surface to form a boundary area that has an aesthetic appearance, a pronounced three-dimensional effect, and is easy to clean. The surface of the boundary area is covered with a layer resistant to contamination. The edge area of plastic flooring with a beveled edge has an aesthetic appearance, a pronounced three-dimensional effect, and is easy to clean.

Patent document WO 2018037270 A1 relates to tiles with a compacted foam core having a grout line. Floor tiles have multiple sides and include at least a top layer, a core layer, and an exposed portion that extends outward along one side of the tile, with a textured surface that mimics a grout line. The top layer of the tile may include a top surface defining a wear layer, a layer of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) having an optimal density, and a dye or coloring agent(s)

- 1 045830 and decorative layer. The core layer is made of compacted foam. The exposed portion and textured surface may be formed by a layer of PVC below the top surface of the tile at a depth of between about 0.9 to 2 millimeters or more, so as to extend into the core layer, and will typically be between 2 millimeters and 5 millimeters wide. The total thickness of the tiles preferably ranges from 4 to 8 millimeters.

Patent document WO 2018162992 A1 relates to tiles that can be used as a covering on the surface of a floor, wall or ceiling. The tile includes at least a top section, and the core layer may be made of densified foam. The top section may include a layer of polyvinyl chloride, and may also include a wear layer and/or a decorative layer. The tile includes a plurality of sides with open areas defined along at least one of the sides, and optionally also across the middle section of the tile. Open areas can be created in the polyvinyl chloride layer below the top surface of the tile at a depth that is very similar to the actual grout line. In addition, the tile may include a connector assembly that at least partially allows for efficient installation of the tile.

Patent document EP 1555141 A1 relates to a panel including a decorative layer with a decorative pattern, a support layer for supporting the decorative layer, and a carrier for supporting the support layer and the decorative layer. The support layer is placed at least partially between the decorative layer and the carrier. The decorative layer is at least partially absent, preferably removed so that the support layer is visible.

Patent document CN 106193518 A describes a wood-polymer floor. Wood resin flooring includes a wood polymer composite (WPC) layer, a middle layer of material, a layer of painted film and a wear layer. The WPC layer, the middle material layer, the colored film layer and the wear-resistant layer are arranged sequentially from bottom to top. On the upper surface of the wood-polymer floor there are a pair of first opposing edges and a pair of second opposing edges. At least one first edge and/or second edge is provided with separating sections/dividing section. The separating sections are extended along the first edges and/or second edges, and protective films are placed on the surfaces of the separating sections. By means of the dividing sections, dividing lines can be achieved to distinguish different floor coverings.

Patent document WO 2015078444 A1 does not refer to imitation ceramic or stone tile coverings, but to a floor panel having a core board which has a wood veneer on the top side. The core board and veneer are bonded to each other using resin. There is a butt cap on at least two side edges of the veneer. The joint plate consists of a resin that glues the veneer to the base board.

It is also known to create decorative panels with grooves and chamfers, examples of which are given, for example, in patent documents WO 2016/050848 and WO 2012/004701.

The essence of the invention

The purpose of the invention is to create panels that include, already in the panels, a realistic imitation of grout. This means that the simulated grout is already present on the panel itself so that a grout operation is not required after the panels are installed on the surface to be covered by the panels. This goal is achieved in alternative ways in several aspects of the invention.

The first aspect of the invention relates to a panel including a substrate and a top layer. The top layer includes a decorative layer and a wear layer. The panel at the first pair of opposing edges is provided with connecting parts that cooperate with each other, essentially in the form of male connecting parts and female connecting parts, for connecting two such panels along their first pair of opposing edges to each other in a floor, wall or ceiling covering. A male connecting portion is provided on a male edge of the first pair of opposing edges. A female connecting part is provided on a female edge of the first pair of opposing edges. The connecting parts are provided with mechanical locking means that prevent displacement of the two connected panels in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels, as well as in a direction perpendicular to the corresponding connected edges in a plane parallel to the connected panels. The surface of at least one male edge is provided with a recess. The recess preferably extends deeper into the panel than the location of the decorative layer. The recess is provided with a layer of varnish, optionally containing sand and/or particles, preferably having a particle size greater than 20 microns. The varnish layer in the recess is at least partially visible when the panel is joined to another such panel at their respective first pair of opposing edges. The thickness of the varnish layer is preferably less than 200 µm, more preferably less than 100 µm, even more preferably less than 60 µm.

The recess with its layer of varnish creates an imitation of grout.

At least a portion of the side edges of the recess are preferably provided with a layer of varnish, more preferably the layer of varnish extends along the side of the recess from the bottom of the recess to a location closer to the surface of the panel than the location of the decorative layer.

- 2 045830

The edge of the panel opposite to the edge containing the recess preferably at least extends over the section provided with a layer of varnish; more preferably, the varnish layer at this edge extends from a position below the location of the decorative layer up to a position above the location of the decorative layer. More preferably, the varnish layer at this edge is provided with a chamfer located on this edge. All layers of varnish more preferably have the same composition and appearance. According to such embodiments, the decorative layer is hidden from view at the side edges of the recess, as well as at the edge opposite to the edge containing the recess. Such embodiments provide an even more realistic grout simulation of the joined panels, wherein the realistic grout simulation is already present in the panels so that once the panels are installed, a grout operation is no longer required.

When the varnish includes sand and/or particles, preferably having a particle size greater than 20 microns, the imitation is obtained as a bound grout, for example from cement, and includes sand or such particles.

In preferred embodiments of the first aspect of the invention, the surface of the varnish layer comprises a section that is parallel to the surface of the panel. Such embodiments provide an even more realistic grout simulation.

In preferred embodiments of the first aspect of the invention, the recess extends into the substrate.

In preferred embodiments of the first aspect of the invention, the recess provided with a layer of varnish is configured to create a simulated grout in a coating containing a plurality of such panels.

In preferred embodiments of the first aspect of the invention, in the joined state of two such panels, at their first pair of opposing edges the visible width of the varnish layer in the recess is at least 1.5 mm, preferably at least 2 mm, more preferably at least 3 mm , more preferably at least 3.5 mm; and preferably less than 5 mm. Such dimensions of the recess create an imitation of grout, similar to that used when installing and grouting tiles.

In preferred embodiments of the first aspect of the invention, the panel includes a second pair of opposing edges, the second pair of opposing edges including a third edge and a fourth edge. The third edge is made to face - and preferably contact - the fourth edge of the third such panel when a plurality of such panels are mounted in the covering. The surface of at least one of the third edge or the fourth edge is provided with a second recess. The second recess is preferably positioned deeper into the panel than the location of the decorative layer. The second recess is provided with a layer of varnish, optionally containing sand and/or particles, preferably having a particle size greater than 20 microns. The varnish layer of the second recess, in the connected state of the panel with another panel, is at least partially visible at its corresponding second pair of opposing edges. The thickness of the varnish layer of the second recess is preferably less than 200 µm, more preferably less than 100 µm, even more preferably less than 60 µm.

The recess with its layer of varnish creates an imitation of grout.

At least part of the side edges of the second recess is preferably provided with a layer of varnish; more preferably, the varnish layer at the sides of the recess extends from the bottom of the recess to a location closer to the surface of the panel than the position of the decorative layer.

The edge of the panel opposite to the edge containing the second recess is preferably located at least above the section provided with a layer of varnish; more preferably, the varnish layer at this edge extends from a position below the location of the decorative layer up to a position above the location of the decorative layer. The varnish layer at this edge is more preferably provided with a chamfer formed at this edge. All layers of varnish more preferably have the same composition and appearance. According to such embodiments, the decorative layer becomes invisible at the side edge of the recess, as well as at the edge of the panel opposite the edge containing the recess. Such embodiments provide an even more realistic grout simulation of the installed panels, wherein the realistic grout simulation is already present in the panels so that once the panels are installed, a grout operation is no longer required.

When the varnish includes sand and/or particles, preferably having a particle size greater than 20 microns, the imitation is obtained as a bound grout, for example with cement, and includes sand or such particles.

In preferred embodiments of the first aspect of the invention, the surface of the varnish layer comprises a section that is parallel to the surface of the panel. Such embodiments provide an even more realistic grout simulation.

In preferred embodiments of the first aspect of the invention, the recess extends into the substrate.

In preferred embodiments according to the first aspect of the invention, the panel includes on its surface at least one central recess extending parallel to the recess and parallel to the first pair of opposing edges. The central recess is preferably provided midway between the first pair of opposing edges. The central recess is preferably about

- 3 045830 goes deeper into the panel than the location of the decorative layer. The central recess is provided with a layer of varnish, optionally containing sand and/or particles, preferably having a particle size greater than 20 microns. The thickness of the varnish layer of the central recess is preferably less than 200 µm, more preferably less than 100 µm, even more preferably less than 60 µm. At least part of the side edges of the at least one central recess is preferably provided with a layer of varnish. The varnish layer more preferably extends at a side edge of the at least one central recess from the bottom of the at least one central recess to a location closer to the surface of the panel than the position of the decorative layer. According to such embodiments, the decorative layer is hidden from view at the side edges of the at least one central recess. Such embodiments provide an even more realistic grout simulation of the installed panels, wherein the realistic grout simulation is already present in the panels so that once the panels are installed, a grout operation is no longer required.

The central recess varnish layer preferably includes a section that is parallel to the surface of the panel.

In preferred embodiments according to the first aspect of the invention, in the connected state, at the first pair of opposing edges of two such panels, the apparent width of the recess is the same as the apparent width of the central recess. Such embodiments create panels that - once the panels are installed - provide an appearance such that the covering made of the panels includes more or fewer panels than it actually does.

In preferred embodiments according to the first aspect of the invention, the female edge includes a first closing plane and the male edge includes a second closing plane. In the connected state of two such panels, at their first pair of opposing edges, a first closing plane of the first such panel contacts a second closing plane of the second such panel, thereby creating a contact surface between the two such connected panels, the contact surface being substantially perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels.

In preferred embodiments according to the first aspect of the invention, the varnish layer contains sand and/or particles, preferably having a particle size greater than 20 μm, and at least a portion of the sand and/or particles is present at the surface of the varnish layer; thereby preferably creating a rough surface of the recess. Such embodiments provide a realistic simulation of typical grout including sand or other particles, such as conventional cement-bonded grout.

In preferred embodiments of the first aspect of the invention, the varnish is an acrylate varnish, or a polyurethane varnish, or a polyurethane-acrylate varnish, preferably a UV-curable varnish. Such embodiments create a durable imitation grout.

In preferred embodiments of the first aspect of the invention, the recess provided with a layer of varnish is configured to create a simulated grout in a coating containing a plurality of such panels.

In preferred embodiments of the first aspect of the invention, the panel includes a second pair of opposing edges. The panel at the second pair of opposing edges is provided with second connecting parts that cooperate with each other, essentially in the form of second male connecting parts and second female connecting parts, for connecting two such panels along their second pair of opposing edges to each other in a floor, wall or ceiling coating. A second male connecting portion is provided at a second male edge of the second pair of opposing edges; and a second female connecting part is provided on the second female edge of the panels. The second connecting parts are provided with mechanical second locking means that prevent displacement of two such connected panels at their second pair of opposing edges in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels, as well as in a direction perpendicular to the corresponding connected edges in a plane parallel to the connected panels. The surface of at least one of the male edges or the second female edge is provided with a second recess. The second recess preferably extends deeper into the panel than the location of the decorative layer. The second recess is provided with a layer of varnish, optionally containing sand and/or particles, preferably having a particle size greater than 20 microns. The varnish layer in the second recess is at least partially visible when the panel is joined to another such panel at their respective second pair of opposing edges. The thickness of the varnish layer is preferably less than 200 µm, more preferably less than 100 µm, even more preferably less than 60 µm.

The recess with its layer of varnish creates an imitation of grout.

At least part of the side edges of the second recess is preferably provided with a layer of varnish; more preferably, the varnish layer extends at the side of the second recess from the bottom of the second recess to a location closer to the surface of the panel than the location of the decorative layer.

The edge of the panel opposite to the edge containing the second recess is preferably

- 4 045830 at least extends over the section provided with a layer of varnish; more preferably, the varnish layer at this edge extends from a position below the location of the decorative layer up to a position above the location of the decorative layer. More preferably, the varnish layer at this edge is provided with a chamfer located on this edge. All layers of varnish more preferably have the same composition and appearance. According to such embodiments, the decorative layer becomes invisible at the side edge of the recess, as well as at the edge of the panel opposite the edge containing the second recess. Such embodiments provide an even more realistic grout simulation of the joined panels, wherein the realistic grout simulation is already present in the panels so that once the panels are installed, a grout operation is no longer required.

When the varnish includes sand and/or particles, preferably having a particle size greater than 20 microns, the imitation is obtained as a bound grout, for example from cement, and includes sand or such particles.

In preferred embodiments of the first aspect of the invention, the surface of the varnish layer of the second recess includes a section that is parallel to the surface of the panel. Such embodiments provide an even more realistic grout simulation.

In preferred embodiments of the first aspect of the invention, the surface of the recess varnish layer and the surface of the second recess varnish layer are at the same depth from the surface of the panel. Such embodiments provide an even more realistic grout simulation.

In preferred embodiments of the first aspect of the invention, in the connected state, the apparent width of the recess of the first pair of opposing edges of two such panels is the same as the apparent width of the second recess in the connected state of the second pair of opposing edges of two such panels. Such embodiments provide an even more realistic grout simulation of installed panels.

In preferred embodiments of the first aspect of the invention, the panel includes at least one second central recess on its surface, the second central recess being parallel to the second recess and parallel to the second pair of opposing edges. The second central recess is preferably located midway between the second pair of opposing edges. The second central recess preferably extends deeper into the panel than the location of the decorative layer. The second central recess is provided with a layer of varnish, optionally containing sand and/or particles, preferably having a particle size greater than 20 microns. At least part of the side edges of the at least one second central recess is preferably provided with a layer of varnish. The varnish layer more preferably extends at a second edge of the at least one second central recess from the bottom of the at least one second central recess to a location closer to the surface of the panel than the location of the decorative layer. According to such embodiments, the decorative layer becomes invisible at the side edge of the at least one second central recess. Such embodiments provide an even more realistic grout simulation of the joined panels, wherein the realistic grout simulation is already present in the panels so that once the panels are installed, a grout operation is no longer required.

In preferred embodiments of the first aspect of the invention, the varnish layer of the second central recess includes a section that is parallel to the surface of the panel.

In the connected state, at the second pair of opposing edges of two such panels, the apparent width of the second recess is preferably the same as the apparent width of the second central recess.

In preferred embodiments according to the first aspect of the invention, in the connected state, at the first pair of opposing edges of two such panels, the apparent width of the recess is the same as the apparent width of the central recess. Such embodiments create panels that - once the panels are installed - provide an appearance such that the covering made of panels includes more or fewer panels than in reality.

In preferred embodiments according to the first aspect of the invention, the edge of the panel where the recess is located creates panel edge joints where the second recess is provided in the joint. The varnish layer of the recess continues in the joint without interruption into the varnish layer of the second recess. The varnish layers of the recess and the second recess preferably have the same composition. Such embodiments provide a more realistic grout simulation.

The second aspect of the invention relates to a panel including a substrate and a top layer. The top layer includes a decorative layer and a wear layer. The panel includes a first pair of opposing edges; wherein the first pair of opposing edges includes a first edge and a second edge. The first edge is made to face - and preferably contact - the second edge of the second such panel when mounting a plurality of such panels in the covering. The panel is preferably surface glued to form a surface coating. The surface of at least one of the first edge or the second edge is provided with a recess. The recess preferably extends deeper into the panel than the location of the decorative layer. The recess is provided with a layer of varnish, optionally containing sand and/or particles, preferably having a particle size greater than 20 microns. The recess varnish layer is at least partially visible when the panel is connected to another such panel.

- 5 045830 at their respective first pair of opposing edges. The thickness of the varnish layer is preferably less than 200 µm, more preferably less than 100 µm, even more preferably less than 60 µm.

The recess with its layer of varnish creates an imitation of grout.

At least part of the side edges of the recess is preferably provided with a layer of varnish; more preferably, the varnish layer extends at the side of the recess from the bottom of the recess to a location closer to the surface of the panel than the location of the decorative layer.

The edge of the panel opposite to the edge containing the recess preferably at least extends over the section provided with a layer of varnish; more preferably, the varnish layer at this edge extends from a position below the location of the decorative layer up to a position above the location of the decorative layer. More preferably, the varnish layer at this edge is provided with a chamfer located on this edge. All layers of varnish more preferably have the same composition and appearance. According to such embodiments, the decorative layer is hidden from view at the side edges of the recess, as well as at the edge opposite to the edge containing the recess. Such embodiments provide an even more realistic grout simulation of the installed panels, wherein the realistic grout simulation is already present in the panels so that once the panels are installed, a grout operation is no longer required.

When the varnish includes sand and/or particles, preferably having a particle size greater than 20 microns, the imitation is obtained as a bound grout, for example from cement, and including sand or such particles.

In preferred embodiments of the second aspect of the invention, the surface of the varnish layer comprises a section that is parallel to the surface of the panel. Such embodiments provide an even more realistic grout simulation.

In preferred embodiments of the second aspect of the invention, the recess extends into the substrate.

In preferred embodiments of the second aspect of the invention, the recess provided with a layer of varnish is configured to create a simulated grout in a coating containing a plurality of such panels.

In preferred embodiments of the second aspect of the invention, in the joined state of two such panels, at their first pair of opposing edges, the visible width of the recess varnish layer is at least 1.5 mm, preferably at least 2 mm, more preferably at least 3 mm, more preferably at least 3.5 mm; and preferably less than 5 mm. Such dimensions of the recess create an imitation of grout, similar to that used when installing and grouting tiles.

In preferred embodiments of the second aspect of the invention, the panel includes a second pair of opposing edges, the second pair of opposing edges including a third edge and a fourth edge. The third edge is made to face - and preferably contact - the fourth edge of the third such panel when a plurality of such panels are mounted in the covering. The surface of at least one of the third edge or the fourth edge is provided with a second recess. The second recess is preferably positioned deeper into the panel than the location of the decorative layer. The second recess is provided with a layer of varnish, optionally containing sand and/or particles, preferably having a particle size greater than 20 microns. The varnish layer of the second recess, in the connected state of the panel with another panel, is at least partially visible at its corresponding second pair of opposing edges. The thickness of the varnish layer of the second recess is preferably less than 200 µm, more preferably less than 100 µm, even more preferably less than 60 µm.

The recess with its layer of varnish creates an imitation of grout.

At least part of the side edge of the second recess is preferably provided with a layer of varnish; more preferably, the varnish layer at the sides of the second recess extends from the bottom of the second recess to a location closer to the surface of the panel than the position of the decorative layer.

The edge of the panel opposite to the edge containing the second recess, preferably at least within the section, is provided with a layer of varnish; more preferably, the varnish layer at this edge extends from a position below the location of the decorative layer up to a position above the location of the decorative layer. The varnish layer at this edge is more preferably provided with a chamfer located on this edge. All layers of varnish more preferably have the same composition and appearance. According to such embodiments, the decorative layer becomes invisible at the side edges of the recess, as well as at the edge opposite to the edge containing the recess. Such embodiments provide an even more realistic grout simulation of the joined panels, wherein the realistic grout simulation is already present in the panels so that once the panels are installed, a grout operation is no longer required.

When the varnish includes sand and/or particles, preferably having a particle size greater than 20 microns, the imitation is obtained as a bound grout, for example from cement, and includes sand or such particles.

In preferred embodiments of the second aspect of the invention, the surface of the varnish layer

- 6 045830 the second recess includes a section that is parallel to the surface of the panel. Such embodiments provide an even more realistic grout simulation.

In preferred embodiments of the second aspect of the invention, the surface of the varnish layer of the recess and the surface of the varnish layer of the second recess are drawn at the same depth from the surface of the panel.

In preferred embodiments of the second aspect of the invention, in the connected state, the apparent width of the recess of the first pair of opposing edges of two such panels is the same as the apparent width of the second recess in the connected state of the second pair of opposing edges of two such panels. Such embodiments provide an even more realistic grout simulation.

In preferred embodiments of the second aspect of the invention, the panel includes on its surface at least one second central recess, the second central recess extending parallel to the second recess and parallel to the second pair of opposing edges. The second central recess is preferably located midway between the second pair of opposing edges. Moreover, the second central recess preferably extends deeper into the panel than the location of the decorative layer. The second central recess is provided with a layer of varnish, optionally containing sand and/or particles, preferably having a particle size greater than 20 microns. At least part of the side edges of the at least one second central recess is preferably provided with a layer of varnish. The varnish layer more preferably extends at a second edge of the at least one second central recess from the bottom of the at least one second central recess to a location closer to the surface of the panel than the location of the decorative layer. According to such embodiments, the decorative layer becomes invisible at the side edges of the at least one second central recess. Such embodiments provide an even more realistic grout simulation of the joined panels, wherein the realistic grout simulation is already present in the panels so that once the panels are installed, a grout operation is no longer required.

In preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, the varnish layer of the second central recess includes a section that is parallel to the surface of the panel.

In the connected state, at the second pair of opposing edges of two such panels, the apparent width of the second recess is preferably the same as the apparent width of the second central recess.

In preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, the panel includes on its surface at least one central recess that is parallel to the recess and parallel to the first pair of opposing edges. The central recess is preferably located midway between the first pair of opposing edges. The central recess preferably extends deeper into the panel than the location of the decorative layer. The central recess is provided with a layer of varnish, optionally containing sand and/or particles, preferably having a particle size greater than 20 microns. The thickness of the varnish layer of the central recess is preferably less than 200 µm, more preferably less than 100 µm, even more preferably less than 60 µm. At least part of the side edges of the at least one central recess is preferably provided with a layer of varnish. The varnish layer more preferably extends at a side edge of the at least one central recess from the bottom of the at least one central recess to a location closer to the surface of the panel than the location of the decorative layer. According to such embodiments, the decorative layer is hidden from view at the side edges of the at least one central recess. Such embodiments provide an even more realistic grout simulation of the joined panels, wherein the realistic grout simulation is already present in the panels so that once the panels are installed, a grout operation is no longer required.

The central recess varnish layer preferably includes a section that is parallel to the surface of the panel.

In preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, in the connected state, at the first pair of opposing edges of two such panels, the apparent width of the recess is the same as the apparent width of the central recess. Such embodiments create panels that - once the panels are installed - provide an appearance such that the panel-assembled covering includes more or fewer panels than it actually does.

In preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, the edge of the panel where the recess is located creates panel edge joints where the second recess is created at the joint. The varnish layer of the recess continues into the joint without interruption into the varnish layer of the second recess. The varnish layers of the recess and the second recess preferably have the same composition. Such embodiments provide a more realistic grout simulation.

In preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, the first edge includes a first closing plane and the second edge includes a second closing plane. In the connected state of two such panels, at their first pair of opposite edges, the first closing plane of the first such panel is in contact with the second closing plane of the second

- 7 045830 such panel, thereby creating a contact surface between two such connected panels, the contact surface being substantially perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels.

In preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, the first edge and the second edge do not have connecting parts that would create a mechanical connection between two such panels when they are mounted in the covering.

In preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, the varnish layer contains sand and/or particles, preferably having a particle size greater than 20 μm, and at least a portion of the sand and/or particles is located at the surface of the varnish layer; thereby preferably creating a rough surface of the recess. Such embodiments provide a realistic simulation of typical grout including sand or other particles, such as conventional cement-bonded grout.

In preferred embodiments of the second aspect of the invention, the varnish is an acrylate varnish, or a polyurethane varnish, or a polyurethane-acrylate varnish, preferably a UV-curable varnish. Such embodiments create a durable imitation grout.

A third aspect of the invention relates to a panel including a substrate and a top layer. The top layer includes a decorative layer and a wear layer. The panel at the first pair of opposing edges is provided with connecting parts that cooperate with each other, essentially in the form of male connecting parts and female connecting parts, for connecting two such panels along their first pair of opposing edges to each other in a floor, wall or ceiling covering. A male connecting portion is provided on a male edge of the first pair of opposing edges. A female connecting part is provided on a female edge of the first pair of opposing edges. The connecting parts are provided with mechanical locking means that prevent displacement of the two connected panels in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels, as well as in a direction perpendicular to the corresponding connected edges in a plane parallel to the connected panels. The surface of at least one male edge or female edge is provided with a recess extending deeper into the panel than the location of the decorative layer. The recess is provided with a polymeric filler material, the polymeric filler material filling the recess at least partially, the polymeric filler material extending vertically from a position below the location of the decorative layer to a position vertically higher than the location of the decorative layer in the panel. The thickness of the polymer filler material is preferably greater than 400 μm, more preferably greater than 500 μm, more preferably greater than 700 μm. Panels according to the third aspect create a realistic imitation of grout. Since the polymer filler material extends vertically above the location of the decorative layer, the decorative layer will be invisible at either the male or female edges of the mounted panels, as if hidden by the polymer filler material.

In preferred embodiments of the third aspect of the invention, the surface of the polymer filler material is at least partially, and preferably throughout its entire surface, parallel to the surface of the panel. Such embodiments provide a more realistic grout simulation.

In preferred embodiments of the third aspect of the invention, the polymer filler material provides a portion of the panel edge upon which the polymer filler material is disposed, more preferably the polymer filler material being at least 0.1 mm high and preferably at least 0.5 mm high - protrudes from the edge on which the polymer filler material is located. Since the polymeric filler material forms part of the edge, the polymeric filler material forming the edge portion may contact the edge of the panel to which it faces. The polymer filler material will cover - and thereby hide - the decorative layer on this facing edge, promoting a more realistic grout appearance.

The portion of the edge of the panel provided with the polymeric filler material is more preferably a cut or milled edge. Such embodiments may be accomplished by performing a trimming or milling operation on the edge of the panel after application of the polymer filler material to define the distal edge of the polymer filler material in the recess.

In preferred embodiments of the third aspect of the invention, the recess including the polymeric filler material is configured to simulate grout in a coating comprising a plurality of such panels.

In preferred embodiments of the third aspect of the invention, the width of the recess provided with the polymer filler material is at least 1.5 mm, preferably at least 2 mm, more preferably at least 3 mm, more preferably at least 3.5 mm; and preferably less than 5 mm. These recess sizes create an imitation of grout

- 8 045830 ki, similar to the one used when installing and grouting tiles.

In preferred embodiments of the third aspect of the invention, the panel includes on its surface at least one central recess extending deeper into the panel than the location of the decorative layer. The central recess is parallel to the recess and parallel to the first pair of opposing edges. The central recess is preferably located midway between the first pair of opposing edges. The central recess includes a third polymer filler material. The third polymeric filler material fills the central recess at least partially. The third polymeric filler material extends vertically from a position below the location of the decorative layer to a position vertically above the location of the decorative layer. The composition of the third resin filler material is preferably the same as the composition of the resin filler material. The thickness of the second polymer filler material is greater than 400 microns, more preferably greater than 500 microns, more preferably greater than 700 microns. Such embodiments create panels that - once the panels are installed - provide an appearance such that the covering made of the panels includes more or fewer panels than it actually does.

In preferred embodiments of the third aspect of the invention, the female edge includes a first closing plane, and the male edge includes a second closing plane. In the connected state of two such panels, at their first pair of opposing edges, a first closing plane of the first such panel contacts a second closing plane of the second such panel, thereby creating a contact surface between the two such connected panels, the contact surface being substantially perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels.

In preferred embodiments of the third aspect of the invention, the polymeric filler material includes a thermoset polymer or an elastomeric polymer, such as an epoxy resin, or the polymeric filler material includes an acrylate binder material.

The polymer filler material preferably includes pigments, preferably to create a polymer filler material in the bonded panels to simulate grout. Pigments allow you to create a polymer filler material with the desired color. The color can be chosen taking into account the finishing of the decorative layer. In this way, realistic grout simulations can be created.

In preferred embodiments of the third aspect of the invention, the polymeric filler material comprises sand and/or particles, preferably having a particle size greater than 20 microns. The sand and/or particles preferably provide a polymer filler material with a rough surface. At least a portion of the sand and/or particles is preferably located at the surface of the polymer filler material. Such embodiments provide a realistic simulation of typical grout including sand or other particles, such as conventional grout bonded with cement.

In preferred embodiments of the third aspect of the invention, the panel includes a second pair of opposing edges. The panel at the second pair of opposing edges is provided with second connecting parts that cooperate with each other, essentially in the form of second male connecting parts and second female connecting parts, for connecting two such panels along their first pair of opposing edges to each other in a floor, wall or ceiling coating. A second male connecting part is provided on the second male edge of the panels. A second female connecting part is provided on the second female edge of the panels. The second connecting portions are provided with second mechanical locking means that prevent displacement of two such panels joined at their second pair of opposing edges in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels, as well as in a direction perpendicular to the respective joined edges in a plane parallel to the joined panels. The surface of at least one second male edge or second female edge is provided with a second recess extending deeper into the panel than the location of the decorative layer. The second recess includes a second polymeric filler material, the second polymeric filler material filling the second recess at least partially. The second polymer filler material extends vertically from a position below the location of the decorative layer to a position vertically above the location of the decorative layer in the panel. The thickness of the second polymer filler material is preferably greater than 400 microns, more preferably greater than 500 microns, more preferably greater than 700 microns. Because the second polymer core material extends vertically above the location of the decorative layer, the decorative layer will not be visible at the third and fourth edges of the assembled panels as hidden by the polymer core material.

In preferred embodiments of the third aspect of the invention, the second polymeric filler material forms part of the edge of the panel on which the second polymeric filler material is disposed, wherein preferably the second polymeric filler material projects to a height of at least 0.1 mm - and preferably to a height of at least 0. 5 mm - from the edge, on

- 9 045830 which contains the second polymer filler material. Because the second polymeric filler material forms the edge portion, the second polymeric filler material forming the edge portion may contact the edge of the panel to which it is associated. A second polymer filler material will cover - and thereby hide - the decorative layer on this joint edge, promoting a more realistic grout appearance.

The portion of the edge of the panel provided with the second polymeric filler material is more preferably a cut or milled edge. Such embodiments may be accomplished by performing a trimming or milling operation on the edge of the panel after application of the second polymeric filler material to define a distal edge of the second polymeric filler material in the second recess.

In preferred embodiments of the third aspect of the invention, the polymer filler material and the second polymer filler material extend the same distance from the surface of the panel. Such embodiments provide a more realistic grout simulation.

In preferred embodiments of the third aspect of the invention, the edge of the panel where the recess is located creates panel edge joints where the second recess is provided in the joint. The polymeric filler material continues in connection without interruption into the second polymeric filler material, and preferably the polymeric filler material and the second polymeric filler material have the same composition. Such embodiments provide a more realistic grout simulation.

In the connected state, at the first pair of opposing edges of two such panels, the apparent width of the polymeric filler material is preferably the same as the apparent width of the second polymeric filler material in the connected state at the second pair of opposing edges of the two such panels. Such embodiments provide a more realistic grout simulation. The composition of the second polymer filler material is preferably the same as the composition of the polymer filler material.

In preferred embodiments of the third aspect of the invention, the panel includes on its surface at least one second central recess extending deeper into the panel than the location of the decorative layer. At least one second central recess is made parallel to the second recess and parallel to the second pair of opposing edges. The at least one second central recess is preferably located midway between the second pair of opposing edges. The at least one second central recess includes a fourth polymer filler material. The fourth polymeric filler material fills the at least one second central recess at least partially. The fourth polymer filler material extends vertically from a position below the location of the decorative layer to a position vertically above the location of the decorative layer. The composition of the fourth resin filler material is preferably the same as the composition of the resin filler material. Such embodiments create panels that - once the panels are installed - provide an appearance such that the covering made of the panels includes more or fewer panels than it actually does.

The fourth aspect of the invention relates to a panel. The panel includes a substrate and a top layer. The top layer includes a decorative layer and a wear layer. The panel includes a first pair of opposing edges, the first pair of opposing edges including a first edge and a second edge. The first edge is made to face - and preferably contact - the second edge of the second such panel when mounting a plurality of such panels in the covering. Moreover, the panel is preferably glued on the surface to form a surface coating. The surface of at least one of the first edge or the second edge is provided with a recess extending deeper into the panel than the location of the decorative layer. It is possible that the first edge and the second edge are provided with such a recess; however, it is also possible that only one of the first edge and the second edge is provided with such a recess. The recess includes a polymeric filler material, wherein the polymeric filler material fills the recess at least partially. The polymer filler material extends vertically from a position below the location of the decorative layer to a position vertically higher than the location of the decorative layer in the panel. The thickness of the polymer filler material is preferably greater than 400 μm, more preferably greater than 500 μm, more preferably greater than 700 μm. Panels according to the fourth aspect create a realistic imitation of grout. Since the polymer core material extends vertically above the location of the decorative layer, the decorative layer will be invisible at the first and second edges of the mounted panels, as if hidden by the polymer core material.

In preferred embodiments of the fourth aspect of the invention, the surface of the polymer filler material is at least partially, and preferably throughout its entire surface, parallel to the surface of the panel. Such embodiments provide a more realistic grout simulation.

In preferred embodiments of the fourth aspect of the invention, the material is polymer

- 10 045830 This filler forms part of the edge of the panel on which the polymer filler material is placed, more preferably the polymer filler material projects to a height of at least 0.1 mm - and preferably to a height of at least 0.5 mm - from the edge, on which contains the polymer filler material. Since the polymeric filler material forms part of the edge, the polymeric filler material forming the edge portion may contact the edge of the panel to which it faces. The polymer filler material will cover - and thereby hide - the decorative layer on this joint edge, promoting a more realistic grout appearance.

The portion of the panel edges provided with the polymer filler material is more preferably a cut or milled edge. Such embodiments may be accomplished by performing a trimming or milling operation on the edge of the panel after application of the polymer filler material to define the distal edge of the polymer filler material in the recess.

In preferred embodiments of the fourth aspect of the invention, the recess including the polymeric filler material is configured to create a simulated grout in a coating comprising a plurality of such panels.

In preferred embodiments of the fourth aspect of the invention, the width of the recess provided with the polymer filler material is at least 1.5 mm, preferably at least 2 mm, more preferably at least 3 mm, more preferably at least 3.5 mm; and preferably less than 5 mm. Such dimensions of the recess create an imitation of grout, similar to that used when installing and grouting tiles.

In preferred embodiments of the fourth aspect of the invention, the panel includes a second pair of opposing edges. The second pair of opposing edges includes a third edge and a fourth edge, the third edge being made to face - and preferably contact - the fourth edge of the third such panel when the plurality of such panels are mounted in the covering. The panel is preferably surface glued to form a surface coating. The surface of at least one of the third edge or fourth edge is provided with a second recess extending deeper into the panel than the location of the decorative layer. The second recess includes a second polymeric filler material. The second polymeric filler material fills the second recess at least partially. The second polymer filler material extends vertically from a position below the location of the decorative layer to a position vertically higher than the location of the decorative layer in the panel. The thickness of the second polymer filler material is preferably greater than 400 microns, more preferably greater than 500 microns, more preferably greater than 700 microns.

In preferred embodiments of the fourth aspect of the invention, the second polymeric filler material forms part of the edge of the panel on which the polymeric filler material is disposed, more preferably the second polymeric filler material projects to a height of at least 0.1 mm - and preferably to a height of at least 0. 5 mm - from the edge on which the polymer filler material is located. Because the second polymeric filler material forms part of the edge, the second polymeric filler material forming the edge part can contact the edge of the panel to which it faces. A second polymer filler material will cover - and thereby hide - the decorative layer on this joint edge, promoting a more realistic grout appearance.

The portion of the edge of the panel provided with the second polymeric filler material is more preferably a cut or milled edge. Such embodiments may be accomplished by performing a trimming or milling operation on the edge of the panel after application of the second polymeric filler material to define a distal edge of the second polymeric filler material in the second recess.

In preferred embodiments of the fourth aspect of the invention, the polymer filler material and the second polymer filler material extend the same distance from the surface of the panel. Such embodiments provide a more realistic grout simulation.

In preferred embodiments of the fourth aspect of the invention, the edge of the panel where the recess is located creates panel edge joints where the second recess is provided in the joint. The polymer filler material continues in the joint without interruption into the second polymer filler material; wherein, preferably, the polymer filler material and the second polymer filler material have the same composition. Such embodiments provide a more realistic grout simulation.

In the connected state at the first pair of opposing edges of two such panels, the apparent width of the polymeric filler material is the same as the apparent width of the second polymeric filler material in the connected state at the second pair of opposing edges of the two such panels. Such embodiments provide an even more realistic grout simulation.

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The composition of the second polymer filler material is preferably the same as the composition of the polymer filler material.

In preferred embodiments of the fourth aspect of the invention, the panel on its surface includes at least one central recess extending deeper into the panel than the location of the decorative layer. The central recess is parallel to the recess and parallel to the first pair of opposing edges. The central recess is preferably located midway between the first pair of opposing edges. The central recess includes a third polymer filler material. The third polymeric filler material fills the central recess at least partially. The third polymeric filler material extends vertically from a position below the location of the decorative layer to a position vertically above the location of the decorative layer in the panel. The composition of the third resin filler material is preferably the same as the composition of the resin filler material. The thickness of the second polymer filler material is greater than 400 microns, more preferably greater than 500 microns, more preferably greater than 700 microns. Such embodiments create panels that - once the panels are installed - provide an appearance such that the covering made of the panels includes more or fewer panels than it actually does.

In preferred embodiments of the fourth aspect of the invention, the panel on its surface includes at least one second central recess extending deeper into the panel than the location of the decorative layer. At least one second central recess is parallel to the second recess and parallel to the second pair of opposing edges. The at least one second central recess is preferably located midway between the second pair of opposing edges. The at least one second central recess includes a fourth polymer filler material. The fourth polymeric filler material fills the at least one second central recess at least partially. The fourth polymer filler material extends vertically from a position below the location of the decorative layer to a position vertically above the location of the decorative layer in the panel. The composition of the fourth resin filler material is preferably the same as the composition of the resin filler material. Such embodiments create panels that - once the panels are installed - provide an appearance such that the covering made of the panels includes more or fewer panels than it actually does.

In preferred embodiments of the fourth aspect of the invention, the first edge includes a first closing plane, and the second edge includes a second closing plane, and in the connected state of two such panels, at their first pair of opposing edges, the first closing plane of the first such panel is in contact with the second closing plane of the second such panel, thereby creating a contact surface between two such connected panels, the contact surface being substantially perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels.

In preferred embodiments of the fourth aspect of the invention, the first edge and the second edge do not have locking planes that would create a mechanical locking of two such panels when they are mounted in the covering.

In preferred embodiments of the fourth aspect of the invention, the polymeric filler material includes a thermoset polymer or an elastomeric polymer, such as an epoxy resin, or the polymeric filler material includes an acrylate binder material.

The polymer filler material preferably includes pigments, preferably to create a polymer filler material in the bonded panels to simulate grout. Pigments allow you to create a polymer filler material with the desired color. The color can be chosen taking into account the finishing of the decorative layer. In this way, realistic grout simulations can be created.

In preferred embodiments of the fourth aspect of the invention, the polymeric filler material comprises sand and/or particles, preferably having a particle size greater than 20 microns. The sand and/or particles preferably provide a polymer filler material with a rough surface. At least a portion of the sand and/or particles is preferably located at the surface of the polymer filler material. Such embodiments provide a realistic simulation of typical grout including sand or other particles, such as conventional grout bonded with cement.

A fifth aspect of the invention relates to a panel including a substrate and a top layer. The top layer includes a decorative layer and a wear layer. The panel at the first pair of opposing edges is provided with connecting parts that cooperate with each other, essentially in the form of male connecting parts and female connecting parts, for connecting two such panels along their first pair of opposing edges to each other in a floor, wall or ceiling covering. A male connecting portion is provided on a male edge of the first pair of opposing edges. A female connecting portion is provided on a female edge of the first pair of opposing edges. The connecting parts are equipped with mechanical locking

- 12 045830 by means that prevent displacement of the two joined panels in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels, as well as in a direction perpendicular to the respective joined edges in a plane parallel to the joined panels. The male edge, preferably the male connecting part, includes a top surface section that is provided below the surface of the floor panel and below the location of the decorative layer, more preferably the top surface of the section has a substantially uniform color. The visual appearance of the top surface of the section across its entire surface is preferably different from the visual appearance of the decorative layer. In the connected state of the first such panel at its male edge on the female edges of the second such panel, the female edge overlaps a portion of the top surface of the male edge section of the first such panel such that a portion of the top surface of the male edge section of the first such panel becomes invisible and a portion of the top surface of the section is visible when viewed perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels. The portion of the top surface of the section that is visible perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels preferably has a width of at least 1.5 mm, more preferably a width of at least 2 mm, more preferably a width of at least 3 mm, more preferably a width of at least 3. 5 mm, and preferably less than 5 mm wide.

Such embodiments provide a simulated grout, while the overlap allows for manufacturing variations, for example, since panel edge mates in the case of rectangular or square panels that are not orthogonal to each other are hidden by the overlap.

In a preferred embodiment of the fifth aspect of the invention, at least a portion of the top surface - and preferably the entire - section, which is visible when viewed perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels, is parallel to the surface of the floor panel. Such embodiments help achieve a more realistic grout simulation.

In a preferred embodiment of the fifth aspect of the invention, the male edge and the female edge each include a chamfer. The chamfers on the male edge and the female edge are more preferably convex chamfers, and preferably the edges of the chamfers are partially or completely curved. Such embodiments help achieve a more realistic grout simulation.

The chamfer on the male edge is preferably a mirror image of the chamfer on the female edge. Such embodiments help achieve a more realistic grout simulation.

The chamfers preferably have an irregular cross-section along the edge. Such embodiments allow the creation of a realistic simulation of a pavement including tiles, since the tiles may exhibit beveled edges having an irregular cross-section.

In a preferred embodiment of the fifth aspect of the invention, the female edge of the second such panel is in contact with the upper surface of the male edge section of the first such panel, which is provided below the surface of the floor panel and below the location of the decorative layer in the first region of the upper surface of the male connecting part. The upper surface of the male edge, preferably the male connecting portion, includes a second region less distant than the first region, wherein the female edge of the second such panel overlaps the second region without contacting it, but such that the second region is invisible. In such embodiments, it is possible to create panels including varnish on the second area. There is no danger that this varnish will be damaged or removed during installation of the panels, which improves the quality of the grout imitation.

The second region is more preferably located at a greater distance from the surface of the floor panel than the first region.

In a preferred embodiment of the fifth aspect of the invention, at least one recess is provided on the surface of the panel parallel to the first pair of opposing edges, wherein at least one recess on both sides parallel to the first pair of opposing edges is bordered by the surface of the panel, the bottom of the recess having substantially the same color, as that portion of the top surface of the male edge section that is visible when viewed perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels. Such embodiments help achieve a more realistic grout simulation.

More preferably, the depth of the at least one recess is substantially the same as the distance from the surface of the panel to the male edge section. Such embodiments help achieve a more realistic grout simulation.

The male edge and the female edge in each case preferably include a chamfer. The sides of the at least one recess parallel to the first pair of opposing edges are provided with chamfers that have substantially the same configuration as the chamfers of the male edge and the female edge, respectively. Such embodiments help achieve a more realistic grout simulation.

- 13 045830

In preferred embodiments of the fifth aspect of the invention, at least part of the male edge section, the upper surface of which is provided below the surface of the floor panel and below the location of the decorative layer, is provided with a layer of varnish. When the male edge and the female edge of the first pair of opposing edges are chamfered, the chamfers are preferably at least partially provided with the same varnish layer. The layer of varnish on the chamfers more preferably extends from a position below the decorative layer - more preferably from the bottom of the chamfers - to a position above the decorative layer. Such embodiments create an even more realistic grout simulation.

The varnish layer preferably includes sand and/or particles, preferably having a particle size greater than 20 microns. Such embodiments create a realistic simulation of grout including sand or other particles, such as conventional cement-bonded grout.

At least a portion of the sand and/or particles is more preferably present at the surface of the varnish layer, more preferably thereby creating a rough surface of the recess. Such embodiments create an even more realistic imitation of the grout used with ceramic tiles.

The varnish is preferably an acrylate varnish, a polyurethane varnish or a polyurethane acrylate varnish, preferably a UV-curable varnish.

In preferred embodiments in which a first region is provided, the first region preferably does not include a layer of varnish. Such embodiments are particularly preferred since there is no danger that the varnish layer will be damaged when the panels are joined by their first pair of opposing edges.

In preferred embodiments of the fifth aspect of the invention, the connecting parts at the first pair of opposing edges are designed such that, in the connected state of the panel with another such panel, mechanical locking means are created at their respective edges of the first pair of opposing edges, which prevent displacement of the connected panels in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected edges, and prevent movement parallel to the surface of the connected panels, while at the same time allowing play in this direction of at least 0.2 mm; and preferably at least less than 0.5 mm. Such embodiments make it possible to compensate for manufacturing tolerances during installation of the panels. For example, when the panels, in addition to the first pair of opposing edges, have a second pair of opposing edges having a 90° angle with the first pair of opposing edges. Due to manufacturing tolerances, this angle may differ from 90°. Backlash allows you to compensate for such variations. Such embodiments are of particular interest when the panels are square, for example with a side width greater than 300 mm, or even greater than 400 mm, or even greater than 500 mm.

In preferred embodiments, the provision of backlash is at least in part made possible by elastic deformation of at least one of the connecting parts, preferably the female connecting part; or, alternatively, the backlash does not require elastic deformation of at least one of the connecting parts.

The creation of the play is, at least in part, preferably made possible by relative positioning in a direction perpendicular to the first pair of opposing edges parallel to the surface of the panels connected at their first pair of opposing edges, with the female edge overlapping on the top surface of the male edge section. The overlapping section of the male edge is preferably parallel to the surface of the panel.

In preferred embodiments of the fifth aspect of the invention, the portion of the top surface of the section that is visible when viewed perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels is configured to simulate grout in a coating comprising a plurality of such panels.

In preferred embodiments of the fifth aspect of the invention, the panel includes a second pair of opposing edges. The panel at the second pair of opposing edges is provided with second connecting parts that cooperate with each other, essentially in the form of second male connecting parts and second female connecting parts, for connecting two such panels along their second pair of opposing edges to each other in a floor, wall or ceiling coating. A second male connecting part is provided on a second male edge of the panels. A second female connecting part is provided on the second female edge of the panels. The second connecting portions are provided with second mechanical locking means that prevent displacement of two such panels joined at their second pair of opposing edges in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels, as well as in a direction perpendicular to the respective joined edges in a plane parallel to the joined panels. The second male edge, preferably the second male connecting portion, comprises a top surface section that is provided below the surface of the floor panel and below the location of the decorative layer.

The top surface of the second male edge section has a substantially uniform color.

- 14 045830

Moreover, the visual appearance of the upper surface of the second male edge section along its entire surface preferably differs from the visual appearance of the decorative layer. In the connected state of the first such panel, connected at its second male edge on the second female edge of the third such panel, the second female edge of the third such panel overlaps a portion of the top surface of the second male edge section of the first such panel, such that a portion of the top surface of the second male edge section of the first such panel becomes invisible and a portion of the top surface of the second male edge section of the first such panel is visible when viewed perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels. Moreover, the part of the upper surface of the second male edge section, which is visible when viewed perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels, preferably has a width of at least 1.5 mm, more preferably a width of at least 2 mm, more preferably a width of at least 3 mm, more preferably a width at least 3.5 mm, and preferably less than 5 mm wide. Such embodiments create a realistic grout simulation.

At least a portion—and preferably all—of the top surface of the second male edge section that is visible when viewed perpendicular to the surface of the joined first and third such panels is preferably parallel to the surface of the panel. Such embodiments provide a more realistic grout simulation.

The second male edge and the second female edges each include a chamfer. The chamfers of the second male edge and the second female edge are more preferably convex chamfers, and preferably the edges of the chamfers are partially or completely curved.

The chamfer of the second male edge is preferably a substantially mirror image of the chamfer of the second female edge.

The chamfers preferably have an irregular cross-section along the edge.

Each of the embodiments in which chamfers are created provides a more realistic grout simulation.

The distance from the panel surface to the male joining edge section is preferably substantially the same as the distance from the panel surface to the second male edge section. Such embodiments facilitate a more realistic grout simulation.

In preferred embodiments of the fifth aspect of the invention, the portion of the top surface of the male edge section that is visible when viewed perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels has substantially the same color as the portion of the top surface of the second male edge section that is visible when viewed perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels. Such embodiments facilitate a more realistic grout simulation.

In preferred embodiments of the fifth aspect of the invention, the second female edge of the third such panel contacts the top surface of a section of the second male edge of the first such panel that is provided below the surface of the floor panel and below the location of the decorative layer, in a first region of the top surface of the second male edge. The upper surface of the second male edge, preferably the second male connecting portion, includes a second region less distant than the first region, wherein the second female edge of the third such panel overlaps the second region without contacting it, but such that the second region becomes invisible.

The second region of the second male edge is preferably at a greater distance from the surface of the floor panel than the first region of the second male connecting part.

In preferred embodiments of the fifth aspect of the invention, the connecting parts at the second pair of opposing edges are designed such that, in the connected state of the panels with another panel, mechanical locking means are created at their respective edges of the second pair of opposing edges, which prevent the fixed panels from moving in a direction perpendicular to the second pair of opposing edges. edges and parallel to the surface of the connected panels, preventing movement, at the same time providing a play in this direction of at least 0.2 mm; and preferably less than 0.5 mm.

The creation of play in a direction perpendicular to the second pair of opposing edges and parallel to the surface of the connected panels is, at least in part, preferably made possible by elastic deformation of at least one of the second connecting parts, preferably the second female connecting part. Moreover, in an alternative embodiment, the backlash does not require elastic deformation of at least one of the connecting parts.

In preferred embodiments of the fifth aspect of the invention, the creation of play in a direction perpendicular to the second pair of opposing edges and parallel to the surface of the connected panels, at least in part, is preferably made a relative position in the direction perpendicular to the first pair of opposing edges, parallel to the surface of the panels connected along the third pair of opposing edges with by overlapping the second female edge with the upper surface of the second male edge section.

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In the same way as creating play at the first pair of opposing edges, play at the second pair of opposing edges allows manufacturing tolerances to be compensated during installation, in particular regarding the angles between the first and second pair of opposing edges.

In a preferred embodiment of the fifth aspect of the invention, instead of a male edge, the female edge, preferably the female connecting part, comprises a top surface section that is provided below the surface of the floor panel and below the location of the decorative layer. The top surface of the section more preferably has a substantially uniform color. In the connected state of the first such panel connected at its male edge to the female edge of the second such panel, instead of overlapping the female edge, it is a male edge that overlaps a portion of the top surface of the female edge section of the first such panel such that a portion of the top surface of the female edge section the first such panel is hidden from view, and part of the upper surface of the section is visible when viewed perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels. Such embodiments create a simulated grout where the overlap allows for manufacturing variations, for example, because panel edge mates in the case of rectangular or square panels that are not orthogonal to each other are hidden by the overlap.

In the first version of the first pair of opposing edges for any embodiment of the first, third or fifth aspect of the invention, the male edge includes a tongue, preferably projecting in a direction parallel to the surface of the panel, creating male connecting parts. The female edge includes a groove defining a female coupling portion, the groove being defined by an upper jaw and a lower jaw, preferably the lower jaw extending further than the upper jaw.

In a preferred embodiment according to this first version, the lower jaw includes a locking element. The lower part of the tongue includes a locking element. In the connected state of two such panels along their first pair of opposing edges, the locking element of the lower jaw is in contact with the tongue, thereby ensuring the closure of the connected panels along their first pair of opposing edges in a direction perpendicular to the connected edges and parallel to the surface of the connected panels; wherein preferably the closure occurs with pre-tension.

The lower jaw locking member is more preferably located remotely from the distal end of the upper jaw.

In the preferred embodiment according to this first version, in the connected state of two such panels along their first pair of opposing edges, the lower part of the tongue makes contact with the upper surface of the lower lip in at least two different sections separated by a gap.

In a preferred embodiment according to this first version, the associated portions of the first pair of opposing edges are configured such that the first such panel can be connected by its male edge to the female edge of the second such panel by means of an inclined sliding movement, and/or by means of a substantially horizontal sliding movement with a snap action . Such embodiments provide a simple way to tie panels together to install a floating floor.

In a preferred embodiment according to this first version, a recess is created at the male edge; wherein the recess extends in a direction parallel to the surface of the panel and perpendicular to the first pair of opposing edges, in close proximity to at least half the distance between, on the one hand, the distal end of the recess and, on the other hand, the middle of the section of the lower lip locking element that will contact the a locking element of the tongue in the connected state of two such panels along the first pair of opposing edges. The recess more preferably extends in a direction parallel to the surface of the panel and perpendicular to the first pair of opposing edges in a proximal direction at least vertically above the locking element of the lower jaw, which will contact the tongue locking element in the connected state of two such panels along their first pair of opposing edges. Such embodiments provide a width for the recess that is well suited to provide a simulated grout after the panels are installed.

In a preferred embodiment according to this first version, the recess is created on the female edge. The recess extends in a direction parallel to the surface of the panel and perpendicular to the first pair of opposing edges in a proximate direction of at least half the distance between, on the one hand, the distal end of the recess and, on the other hand, the proximal end of the groove. The recess more preferably extends in a direction parallel to the surface of the panel and perpendicular to the first pair of opposing edges in a direction proximal to a location outside the proximal end of the groove. Such embodiments provide a width for the recess that is well suited to provide a simulated grout after the panels are installed.

In a preferred embodiment according to this first version, the portion of the top surface of the male edge section, which is visible when viewed perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels, extends in a direction parallel to the surface of the panel and perpendicular to

- 16 045830 to the first pair of opposing edges in the nearest direction to at least half the distance between, on the one hand, the distal end of the tongue and, on the other hand, the middle of the locking element section of the lower jaw, which will contact the tongue locking element in the connected state of two such panels along their first pair of opposing edges. More preferably, the portion of the top surface of the male edge section that is visible when viewed perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels extends in a direction parallel to the surface of the panel and perpendicular to the first pair of opposing edges in the closest direction to the vertical above the locking element of the lower jaw, which will contact the tongue locking element in the connected state of two such panels along their first pair of opposite edges. Such embodiments provide a width for the recess that is well suited to provide a simulated grout after the panels are installed.

In the second version, for the first pair of opposing edges for any embodiment of the first, third or fifth aspect of the invention, the male edge includes a downwardly directed upper hook portion; wherein the downwardly directed upper hook portion includes - and preferably consists of - a jaw with a downwardly directed locking element that forms a male connecting part. The female edge includes an upwardly directed lower hook-shaped portion; wherein the upwardly directed lower hook-shaped part includes - and preferably consists of - a jaw with an upwardly directed locking element which, in the vicinity thereof, defines a female connecting part in the form of a connecting recess. The male connecting part and the female connecting part are configured such that the first and second such panels can be connected to each other along their respective first pair of opposing edges by sliding substantially perpendicular to the surface of the first and second such panels. Such embodiments allow for easy installation of the panel into a floating floor, such as a floating floor.

In a preferred embodiment according to this second version, the edges of the first pair of opposing edges are provided with mechanical locking means such that, in the connected state of the first such panel to a second such panel along their first pair of opposing edges, a closure perpendicular to the surface of the panels is created at the distal end of the downwardly directed closure element of the panel .

In a preferred embodiment according to this second version, the locking means include an undercut at the female edge, the undercut being designed to engage with a downward locking element of the connected panel - preferably to engage with a distal end of the downward locking elements - thereby creating a closure perpendicular to the surface of the panels at the distal end of the downward-facing panel lock. Such embodiments provide effective locking of the connected panels.

In a preferred embodiment according to this second version, the first pair of opposing edges is configured such that, in the connected state of two such panels, their first pair of opposing edges is not provided with a closure in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels at the distal end of the upwardly directed locking element.

In the preferred embodiment of this second version, closure in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the panels connected at their first pair of opposing edges is provided neither at the proximal end of the upward closure element nor at the proximal end of the downward closure element.

In a preferred embodiment according to this second version, the proximal end of the downwardly directed closure element includes a first inclined contact surface, the proximal end of the upwardly directed closure element includes a second inclined contact surface; wherein in the connected state of two such panels, at their first pair of opposite edges, the first inclined contact surface of the first such panel is in contact with the second inclined contact surface of the second such panel; thereby creating a closure of the connected panels in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels. Moreover, preferably the closure is created with pre-tension.

In a preferred embodiment according to this second version, the first pair of opposing edges is configured such that, in the connected state of two such panels, at their first pair of opposing edges, a closure in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels is created at the distal end of the upwardly directed locking element; Moreover, the closure occurs with or without contact.

The distal end of the upwardly directed locking element more preferably includes an undercut or protrusion, the lower surface of the undercut or protrusion being provided to create a closure in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels.

In a preferred embodiment according to this second version, the upwardly directed closure element contacts the proximal end of the edge of the panel with which it is associated at the distal end of the upwardly directed closure element; and/or the distal end of the upwardly directed closure element

- 17 045830 includes an undercut and the upward locking member contacts the proximal end of the edge of the panel to which it is connected at the undercut of the upward locking member. In both alternatives, the closure occurs in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels.

In a preferred embodiment according to this second version, the proximal end of the male edge includes a corresponding hook, wherein the corresponding hook is provided for engagement with an upwardly directed locking element of the connected panel to create a closure in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels.

In a preferred embodiment according to this second version, the first pair of opposing edges is configured such that, in the connected state of two such panels, their first pair of opposing edges is not provided with a closure in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels at the distal end of the upwardly directed locking element.

In a preferred embodiment according to this second version, a recess is created at the male edge. The recess extends parallel to the surface of the panel and perpendicular to the first pair of opposing edges in a proximal direction to at least half the distance between, on the one hand, the distal end of the recess and, on the other hand, the middle of the proximal end section of the downwardly directed closure element, which in the connected state will in contact with the proximal end of the upwardly directed closure element. The recess more preferably extends in a direction parallel to the surface of the panel and perpendicular to the first pair of opposing edges in a proximal direction to a location outside the proximal end of the downward closure member. Such embodiments provide a width for the recess that is well suited to provide a simulated grout after the panels are installed.

In a preferred embodiment according to this second version, a recess is provided at the female edge. The width of the recess is at least 30% of the panel thickness, preferably at least 40% of the panel thickness, more preferably at least 60% of the panel thickness; and preferably less than 100% of the panel thickness. Such embodiments provide a width for the recess that is well suited to provide a simulated grout after the panels are installed.

In a preferred embodiment according to this second version, the portion of the top surface of the male edge section, which is visible when viewed perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels, extends in a direction parallel to the surface of the panel and perpendicular to the first pair of opposing edges in the closest direction to at least half the distance between, with one side, the distal end of the recess and, on the other hand, the middle of the proximal end section of the downwardly directed closure element, which in the connected state will contact the proximal end of the upwardly directed closure element. More preferably, a portion of the upper surface of the male edge section is visible when viewed perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels in a direction parallel to the panel surface and perpendicular to the first pair of opposing edges in a proximate direction to a location outside the proximal end of the downwardly directed closure member. Such embodiments provide a width for the recess that is well suited to provide a simulated grout after the panels are installed.

In the first version for the second pair of opposing edges for any embodiment of the first, third or fifth aspect of the invention, the second male edge includes a second tongue preferably extending in a direction parallel to the surface of the panel - creating second male connecting parts. The second female edge includes a second groove defining a second female coupling portion, the second groove being defined by a second upper jaw and a second lower jaw, preferably the second lower jaw extending further than the second upper jaw.

In a preferred embodiment according to this first version, the second lower jaw includes a second locking element, and the bottom of the second tongue includes a second locking element, wherein in the connected state of two such panels, at their second pair of opposing edges, the second locking element of the second lower jaw contacts the second locking element element of the second tongue, thereby creating a closure of the connected panels at their second pair of opposing edges in the direction of perpendicular to the connected edges and parallel to the surface of the connected panels; more preferably, the closure occurs with pre-tension.

The second locking element of the second lower jaw is preferably located remotely from the distal end of the second upper jaw.

In the preferred embodiment according to this first version, in the connected state of two such panels, at their second pair of opposing edges, the bottom of the second tongue makes contact with the top surface of the second bottom lip of at least two different sections separated by a gap.

In a preferred embodiment according to this first version, the connecting parts of the second pair of opposing edges are designed such that the first such panel can be connected

- 18 045830 its second male edge with the second female edge of a third such panel by sliding in at an angle and/or by means of a substantially horizontal sliding movement with a snap.

In the second version, for the second pair of opposing edges for any embodiment of the first, third or fifth aspect of the invention, the second male edge includes a second downwardly directed upper hook portion; wherein the second downwardly directed upper hook portion includes - and preferably consists of - a jaw with a second downwardly directed locking member that defines a second male connecting portion. The second female edge includes a second upwardly directed lower hook-shaped portion; wherein the second second upwardly directed lower hook portion includes and preferably consists of a jaw with a second upwardly directed locking element which, adjacent thereto, defines a second female connecting part in the form of a second connecting recess. The second male connecting portion and the second female connecting portion are configured such that two such panels can be connected to each other along their respective second pair of opposing edges by movement substantially perpendicular to the surface of the two such panels to be connected. Such embodiments allow for easy installation of the panels.

In preferred embodiments according to this second version, the edges of the second pair of opposing edges are provided with mechanical locking means such that, in the connected state of the first such panel to the third such panel along their second pair of opposing edges, a closure perpendicular to the surface of the panels is created at the distal end of the second downwardly directed closure element panels. Such embodiments provide effective locking of the assembled panels.

In preferred embodiments according to this second version, the locking means includes a second undercut at the second female edge, the second undercut being provided for engagement with a second downward locking member of the connected panel, preferably for engagement with a locking member at a distal end of the second downward locking member - thereby thereby creating a closure perpendicular to the surface of the panels at the distal end of the second downward closure of the panel. Such embodiments provide effective locking of the assembled panels.

In preferred embodiments according to this second version, the second pair of opposing edges is configured such that, in the connected state of two such panels, their second pair of opposing edges is not provided with a closure in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels at the distal end of the second upwardly directed closure element.

In preferred embodiments of this second version, closure in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the panels between the panels connected at their second pair of opposing edges is provided neither at the proximal end of the second upward closure element nor at the proximal end of the second downward closure element.

In preferred embodiments according to this second version, the proximal end of the second downwardly directed closure element includes a third inclined contact surface; wherein the proximal end of the second upwardly directed closure element includes a fourth inclined contact surface; wherein in the connected state of two such panels connected along their second pair of opposing edges, a third inclined contact surface of the first such panel contacts a fourth inclined contact surface of the third such panel; thereby creating a closure of the connected panels in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels; wherein preferably the closure is created with pretension. Such embodiments provide effective locking of the assembled panels.

In preferred embodiments according to this second version, the second pair of opposing edges is configured such that, in the connected state of two such panels along their second pair of opposing edges, a closure in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels is created at the distal end of the second upwardly directed closure element; whereby closure is achieved with or without contact. Such embodiments provide effective locking of the assembled panels.

The distal end of the second upward closure member more preferably includes a second undercut or second projection, the bottom surface of the second undercut or second projection being configured to create a lock in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels.

In preferred embodiments according to this second version, the second upwardly directed closure element contacts the proximal end of the edge of the panel with which it is associated, at the distal end of the second upwardly directed closure element; and/or the distal end of the second upward closure member includes a second undercut, and the second upward closure member contacts the proximal end of the edge of the panel to which it is associated at the second undercut of the second upward closure member. Both alternatives create a short circuit in the direction

- 19 045830 perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels.

The proximal end of the second male edge more preferably includes a second corresponding hook, wherein the second corresponding hook is configured to interact with a second upwardly directed locking element of the connected panel to create a closure in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels.

In preferred embodiments according to this second version, the second pair of opposing edges is configured such that, in the connected state of two such panels, their first pair of opposing edges is not provided with a closure in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels at the distal end of the upwardly directed locking element.

In a preferred embodiment of the first, third or fifth aspect of the invention, the connecting portions of the first pair of opposing edges and the connecting portions of the second pair of opposing edges are configured such that many such panels can be assembled to form a covering in a folding assembly manner. In this way, a very simple and efficient installation of panels in a floating floor can be achieved, which does not require grouting after the panels are placed, while at the same time achieving a realistic grout simulation.

A sixth aspect of the invention relates to a panel including a substrate and a top layer. The top layer includes a decorative layer and a wear layer. The panel at the first pair of opposing edges is provided with connecting parts that cooperate with each other, essentially in the form of tongue and groove, to connect two such panels at their first pair of opposing edges to each other in a floor, wall or ceiling covering. The tongue is placed on the male edge of the first pair of opposing edges; wherein preferably the tongue extends at the male edge in a direction parallel to the surface of the panel. The groove is located at the female edge of the first pair of opposing edges; wherein the groove is defined by an upper jaw and a lower jaw, with the lower jaw preferably extending further than the upper jaw. The connecting parts are provided with mechanical locking means that prevent displacement of the two connected panels in a direction perpendicular to the corresponding connecting edges in a plane parallel to the connected panels, as well as in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the panel. The surface of the male edge is provided with a recess, and preferably the recess extends deeper into the panel than the location of the decorative layer. The width of the recess is preferably at least 1.5 mm, more preferably at least 2 mm, more preferably at least 3 mm, more preferably at least 3.5 mm; and preferably less than 5 mm.

The panel includes a second pair of opposing edges; wherein the panel at the second pair of opposing edges is provided with second connecting parts that cooperate with each other, essentially in the form of second male connecting parts and second female connecting parts, for connecting two such panels along their second pair of opposing edges to each other in a floor, wall or ceiling covering. The second male connecting part is located at the second male edge of the second pair of opposing edges; wherein the second female connecting part is located at the second female edge of the panels. The second connecting portions are provided with mechanical locking means that prevent displacement of the two panels connected at their second pair of opposing edges in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels, as well as in a direction perpendicular to the corresponding connecting edges in a plane parallel to the connected panels. The second male edge includes a downwardly directed upper hook-shaped portion; wherein the downwardly directed upper hook portion includes - and preferably consists of - a jaw with a downwardly directed locking element that forms a second male connecting part. The second female edge includes an upwardly directed lower hook-shaped portion; wherein the upwardly directed lower hook-shaped part includes - and preferably consists of - a jaw with an upwardly directed locking element, which, in the vicinity thereof, defines a second female connecting part in the form of a connecting recess. The second male connecting portion and the second female connecting portion are configured such that two such panels can be connected to each other along their respective second pair of opposing edges by sliding substantially perpendicular to the surface of the two such panels to be connected.

The connecting portions of the first pair of opposing edges and the second connecting portions of the second pair of opposing edges are configured such that many such panels can be connected to form a cover using a folding installation method. The surface of the second female edge or the surface of the second male edge is provided with a second recess, and preferably the second recess extends deeper into the panel than the location of the decorative layer. The width of the second recess is preferably at least 1.5 mm, more preferably at least 2 mm, more preferably at least 3 mm, more preferably at least 3.5 mm; and preferably less than 5 mm. The width of the second recess is preferably substantially the same as the width of the recess.

The benefit of the sixth aspect of the invention is that panels can be created which provide

- 20 045830 provide a realistic imitation of grout, while no grout is required. The notch and second notch create an imitation of the grout already present in the panels before the panels are installed in the coating. The panels can be installed in the floor covering as a floating one; and there is no need for additional operation after mechanical bonding to show realistic grout simulation.

In embodiments of the sixth aspect of the invention, the lower jaw includes a locking element, and the lower part of the tongue includes a locking element, and in the connected state of two such panels, at their first pair of opposing edges, the locking element of the lower jaw contacts the locking element of the tongue, thereby creating a short circuit of the connected panels their first pair of opposing edges in a direction perpendicular to the joined edges and parallel to the surface of the joined panels; wherein preferably the closure is created with pretension. Such panels can be mounted floating, and excellent closure of the panels is achieved.

In a preferred embodiment of the sixth aspect of the invention, the lower jaw locking element is located remotely from the distal end of the upper jaw. The recess extends in a direction parallel to the surface of the panel and perpendicular to the first pair of opposing edges in a proximal direction to at least half the distance between, on the one hand, the distal end of the recess and, on the other hand, the middle of the locking element section of the lower jaw that will contact the locking element tongue in the connected state of two such panels along their first pair of opposite edges. The recess more preferably extends in a direction parallel to the surface of the panel and perpendicular to the first pair of opposing edges in a proximal direction at least vertically above the locking element of the lower jaw, which will contact the tongue locking element in the connected state of two such panels along their first pair of opposing edges. Such embodiments create an even more realistic grout simulation due to the width of the recesses.

In a preferred embodiment of the sixth aspect of the invention, in the connected state of two such panels, along their first pair of opposing edges, the lower part of the tongue comes into contact with the upper surface of the lower lip of at least two different sections separated by a gap.

In a preferred embodiment of the sixth aspect of the invention, the connecting parts of the first pair of opposing edges are configured such that the first such panel can be connected by its male edge to the second such panel by sliding at an angle. These types of applications simplify the installation of panels.

In a preferred embodiment of the sixth aspect of the invention, the proximal end of the second female edge of the second pair of opposing edges includes a third closing plane, the distal end of the second male edge of the second pair of opposing edges includes a fourth closing plane, and in the connected state of two such panels, their second pair of opposing edges has a third a closing plane of the first such panel contacts a fourth closing plane of the third such panel, thereby creating a contact surface between two connected such panels, the contact surface being substantially perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels. The edges of the second pair of opposing edges are provided with mechanical locking means such that, in the connected state of the first such panel with the third such panel, a contact area between the mechanical locking means is formed along their second pair of opposing edges, thereby creating a closure perpendicular to the surface of the panels at the distal end of the downwardly directed locking element panels; the extent of the contact surface preferably crosses the contact area between the mechanical locking means (which improves the closure of the panels and thereby prevents the occurrence of gaps in the connected state, which would be detrimental to the good appearance of the imitation grout). The locking means more preferably includes an undercut at the second female edge, the undercut interacting with a downward locking element of the connected panel - and preferably interacting with a locking element 81 at the distal end of the second downward locking element 66, thereby creating a closure perpendicular to the surface of the panels at the distal end of the down the panel locking element.

In a preferred embodiment of the sixth aspect of the invention, there is no closure in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels at the second pair of opposing edges between the distal end of the second male edge and the proximal end of the second female edge.

In a preferred embodiment of the sixth aspect of the invention, closure in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the panels connected at their second pair of opposing edges is provided neither at the proximal end of the upward closure element nor at the proximal end of the downward closure element.

In a preferred embodiment of the sixth aspect of the invention, the proximal end of the downwardly directed closure element includes a first inclined contact surface; and closer

- 21 045830 the lower end of the upwardly directed closure element includes a second inclined contact surface; wherein in the connected state of two such panels, at their second pair of opposite edges, the first inclined contact surface of the first such panel is in contact with the second inclined contact surface of the third such panel; thereby creating a closure of the connected panels in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels; wherein preferably the closure is created with pretension.

In a preferred embodiment of the sixth aspect of the invention, the second pair of opposing edges is configured such that, in the connected state of two such panels, at their second pair of opposing edges, a short circuit in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels is created at the distal end of the upwardly directed locking element; wherein the closure is created with or without contact. The distal end of the upwardly directed closure member more preferably includes an undercut or projection, the lower surface of the undercut or projection being configured to create a closure in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels.

In a preferred embodiment of the sixth aspect of the invention, the upward locking member contacts the proximal end of the edge of the panel to which it is associated at the distal end of the upward locking member; and/or the distal end of the upwardly directed closure element includes an undercut, and the upwardly directed closure element contacts the proximal end of the panel with which it is associated along the undercut of the upwardly directed closure element. Each of these versions achieves efficient and effective closure in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels.

In a preferred embodiment of the sixth aspect of the invention, the proximal end of the second male edge includes a corresponding hook, wherein the corresponding hook is provided to engage with an upwardly oriented locking element of the connected panel to create a closure in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels.

In a preferred embodiment of the sixth aspect of the invention, the second pair of opposing edges is configured such that, in the connected state of two such panels, their second pair of opposing edges is not provided with a closure in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels at the distal end of the upwardly directed locking element.

In a preferred embodiment of the sixth aspect of the invention, the recess and the second recess are provided with a layer of varnish, wherein the varnish layer of the recess is at least partially visible in the connected state of the panel with another such panel at their respective first pair of opposing edges, and wherein the varnish layer of the second recess, is at least partially visible in the connected state of the panel with another such panel at their respective second pair of opposing edges. The thickness of both varnish layers is preferably less than 200 µm, more preferably less than 100 µm, even more preferably less than 60 µm.

At least part of the side edges of the recess and the second recess are preferably provided with a layer of varnish; more preferably, a layer of varnish extends along the sides of the recess and the second recess from the bottom of the recess to a location closer to the surface of the panel than the location of the decorative layer.

A panel edge opposing the edge containing the recess and a panel edge opposing the edge containing the second recess preferably extend over the section provided with the varnish layer; the varnish layer on these edges more preferably extends from a position below the location of the decorative layer up to a position above the location of the decorative layer. A layer of varnish at these edges is more preferably provided on the chamfers located on these edges. All layers of varnish more preferably have the same composition and appearance. According to such embodiments, the decorative layer becomes invisible at the side edges of the recess and the second recess, as well as at the edges opposite to the edges including the recess and the second recess, respectively. Such embodiments create an even more realistic grout simulation of the joined panels, wherein the realistic grout simulation is already present in the panels so that post-installation grouting operations are not required.

In a preferred embodiment of the sixth aspect of the invention, in which varnish layers are provided, the recess and second recess varnish layers comprise sand and/or particles, preferably having a particle size greater than 20 microns.

In a preferred embodiment of the sixth aspect of the invention, the first pair of opposing edges and/or the second pair of opposing edges are chamfered.

In a preferred embodiment of the sixth aspect of the invention, the proximal end of the female edge of the first pair of opposing edges includes a first closing plane, the distal end of the male edge of the first pair of opposing edges includes a second closing plane, wherein in the connected state of two such panels, their first pair of opposing edges has a first closing plane the first such panel contacts a second closing plane of the second such panel, thereby creating a contact surface between two such connected panels, the contact surface being substantially perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels.

- 22 045830

In a preferred embodiment of the sixth aspect of the invention, the proximal end of the second female edge of the second pair of opposing edges includes a third closing plane, the distal end of the second male edge of the second pair of opposing edges includes a fourth closing plane, and in the connected state of two such panels, their second pair of opposing edges has a third a closing plane of the first such panel contacts a fourth closing plane of the third such panel, thereby creating a contact surface between two such connected panels, the contact surface being substantially perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels.

In a preferred embodiment of the sixth aspect of the invention, the polymeric filler material fills the recess, and at least partially, the second recess, with the polymeric filler material extending vertically from a position below the location of the decorative layer to a position vertically higher than the location of the decorative layer in the panel. Such embodiments create a realistic simulated grout already present in the panels prior to installation, such that no grouting operation is required after the panels are installed, while still providing a realistic simulated grout. The thickness of the polymer filler material is preferably greater than 400 μm, even more preferably greater than 500 μm, even more preferably greater than 700 μm.

More preferably, the surface of the polymer filler material in the recess and in the second recess is at least partially, preferably throughout its entire surface, parallel to the surface of the panel.

The polymer filler material more preferably forms a portion of the edge of the panel on which the polymer filler material is located. The polymer filler material more preferably projects at least 0.1 mm (and more preferably at least 0.5 mm) from the edge on which the polymer filler material is located. Even more preferably, the portion of the edges of the panel provided with the polymeric filler material is a cut or milled edge. Such embodiments may be accomplished by performing a trimming or milling operation on the edge of the panel after application of the polymer filler material to define a distal edge of the polymer filler material in the recess and/or in the second recess.

In embodiments of the sixth aspect of the invention in which a polymer filler material is used, the polymer filler materials preferably include a thermoset polymer or an elastomeric polymer, such as an epoxy resin; or the polymeric filler materials include an acrylate binder material.

The polymeric filler material preferably comprises sand bonded with a polymeric binder material, such as an epoxy or acrylate binder.

The polymer filler material preferably includes pigments, preferably to create a polymer filler material in the bonded panels to simulate grout. Such embodiments allow the color of the filler material, and thereby the grout imitation, to be selected so that not only can a realistic grout imitation be achieved, but the color can be customized taking into account the finish of the decorative layer.

The polymeric filler materials preferably include, at least on their visible surface, sand and/or particles, preferably having a particle size greater than 20 microns. Sand and/or particles more preferably impart a rough surface to the polymeric filler materials. Such embodiments create an even more realistic grout simulation.

In preferred embodiments of the sixth aspect of the invention, the recess includes a bottom - preferably a smooth bottom - and a side surface adjacent to the bottom.

In preferred embodiments of the sixth aspect of the invention, the second recess includes a bottom - preferably a smooth bottom - and a side surface close to the bottom

In preferred embodiments of the sixth aspect of the invention, the cross-section of the recess perpendicular to the edge of the panel where the recess is located is substantially the same as the cross-section of the second recess perpendicular to the edge of the panel where the second recess is provided. Such embodiments create an even more realistic grout simulation.

In preferred embodiments of the sixth aspect of the invention, the edge of the panel where the recess is located is connected to the edge of the panel where the second recess is located, forming a joint; wherein in the connection the recess continues without interruption into the second recess. Such embodiments create an even more realistic grout simulation.

The seventh aspect of the invention relates to a panel. The panel includes a substrate and a top layer. The top layer includes a decorative layer and a wear layer. The decorative layer preferably includes a printed film. The panel at the first pair of opposing edges is provided with connecting parts that cooperate with each other, essentially in the form of male connecting parts and female connecting parts, for connecting two such panels along their first pair of opposing edges to each other in a floor, wall or ceiling covering. A male connecting portion is provided on a male edge of the first pair of opposing edges.

- 23 045830

The connecting parts are provided with mechanical locking means that prevent displacement of the two connected panels in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels, as well as in a direction perpendicular to the corresponding connected edges in a plane parallel to the connected panels. A female connecting part is provided on a female edge of the first pair of opposing edges. The male connecting part includes a tongue. The female connecting portion includes a groove defined by an upper jaw and a lower jaw. The lower lip preferably extends further than the upper lip. The lower jaw includes a locking element, and the lower part of the tongue includes a locking element, and in the connected state of two such panels along their first pair of opposing edges, the locking element of the lower jaw contacts the locking element of the tongue, thereby creating a closure of the connected panels along their first pair of opposing edges in direction perpendicular to the joined edges and parallel to the surface of the joined panels. This closure is preferably achieved with pretension. In the connected state of the male edge with the female edge of another such panel, the upper surface of the tongue is in contact with the lower part of the upper jaw. This contact is preferably substantially parallel to the surface of the panel, or this contact makes an angle of less than 5° with the surface of the panel; Such embodiments are beneficial because it facilitates relative slippage of the edges of the panels, allowing expansion and contraction of the panels to be accommodated after installation.

The surface of the male edge is provided with a recess, preferably including at least one section parallel to the surface of the panel. The upper lip includes a distal portion extending from the edge of the panel. This distal portion may preferably be designed as a spout. The lower surface of the distal portion is preferably located in the substrate. In the connected state of the female edge with the male edge of another such panel, the distal portion of the upper jaw of the female edge at least partially overlaps the recess at the surface of the male edge. This overlap is preferably created with contact between the bottom of the distal portion and the recess, more preferably this contact is pre-tensioned. This contact has the advantage that moisture penetration between the connected edges of the mounted panels is prevented. This advantage is more pronounced when this contact is obtained with pretension. This pre-tension can be obtained by providing structures with an overlapping profile.

The overlap is preferably formed with a gap between the lower part of the distal portion and the lower part of the recess; more preferably, the gap between the bottom of the distal portion and the bottom of the recess is at least 0.1 mm, and more preferably less than 0.3 mm, and more preferably at most 0.2 mm. Such embodiments have the advantage that manufacturing tolerances can be taken into account during installation of the panels.

The overlap between the distal portion and the recess at the surface of the male edge is formed at a vertical distance from the contact between the upper surface of the tongue and the lower surface of the upper jaw. The vertical distance between, on the one hand, the overlap between the distal portion and the recess at the surface of the male edge, and, on the other hand, the contact between the upper surface of the tongue and the lower surface of the upper jaw, is preferably at least 0.7 mm.

The panels according to the seventh aspect of the invention provide a very realistic grout simulation through a recess. Because the distal portion at least partially overlaps the recess when the panels are connected, the simulated grout appears as a solid grout, with no visible joint line as is the case with other simulated grout already present in the panels before the panels are installed. The panels according to the seventh aspect of the invention can be connected easily for floating installation of the panels.

Optionally, the panel according to the seventh aspect of the invention is a panel according to any consistent embodiment of any of the first aspect, second aspect, third aspect, fourth aspect, fifth aspect or sixth aspect of the invention.

A gap is optionally formed in a horizontal direction between the distal end of the tongue and the proximal end of the female edge.

In preferred embodiments of the seventh aspect of the invention, the distal portion includes a chamfer. The chamfer can be a rounded, convex or concave chamfer. The chamfer may include a rounded, convex or concave section. Such embodiments have the advantage that an even more realistic grout simulation is created on the assembled panels.

In preferred embodiments of the seventh aspect of the invention, the male edge includes a chamfer adjacent to the recess. The chamfer can be a rounded, convex or concave chamfer. The chamfer may include a rounded, convex or concave section. Such embodiments have the advantage that an even more realistic grout simulation is created on the assembled panels.

In preferred embodiments of the seventh aspect of the invention, the recess is provided with a layer of varnish. In embodiments in which the distal portion includes a chamfer, the chamfer is preferably

- 24 045830 is at least partially provided with a layer of varnish so that in the connected state of two such panels, along their first pair of opposing edges, the varnish layer of the recess visually continues into the varnish layer of the chamfer of the distal section. In embodiments in which the male edge includes a chamfer adjacent to a recess, the recess varnish layer preferably extends at least partially onto said chamfer. Such embodiments create an even more realistic grout simulation. The varnish layer can be painted to create an imitation grout with the desired color, so that an even more realistic imitation of grout is obtained.

In embodiments in which a varnish layer is provided, the varnish layer preferably includes sand and/or particles, preferably having a particle size greater than 20 microns. Such embodiments create a simulated grout that exhibits some of the roughness achieved by real cement grout.

In embodiments in which a varnish layer is provided, the varnish layer preferably has a thickness of less than 200 microns, more preferably a thickness of less than 100 microns, even more preferably a thickness of less than 60 microns.

In preferred embodiments of the seventh aspect of the invention, the recess has a width of at least 2 mm, and more preferably at least 2.3 mm. Such embodiments create an even more realistic grout simulation.

In preferred embodiments of the seventh aspect of the invention, the recess in the assembled panels has an apparent width of at least 1.5 mm, more preferably at least 2 mm. Such embodiments create an even more realistic grout simulation.

In preferred embodiments of the seventh aspect of the invention, the distal end of the distal portion extends a horizontal distance of at least 0.25 mm, and preferably at least 0.7 mm, from the female edge. Such embodiments create an even more realistic grout simulation.

In preferred embodiments of the seventh aspect of the invention, the recess extends into the substrate. Such embodiments provide an improved panel. The color of the imitation grout can be given by the substrate or the varnish applied to it. The depth of the recess can be chosen so that it imitates the grout of a ceramic tile surface.

In preferred embodiments of the seventh aspect of the invention, in the connected state of the female edge with the male edge of another such panel, a gap is provided that extends horizontally between the male edge and the female edge, and vertically between the distal portion and the top surface of the tongue. The gap is preferably formed in a horizontal direction between the distal end of the tongue and the proximal end of the female edge.

In preferred embodiments of the seventh aspect of the invention, in the connected state of the female edge with the male edge of another such panel, the distal end of the upper jaw below the distal portion contacts the male edge of another such panel on at least a portion of the surface of the distal end of the upper jaw below the distal portion; this upper jaw distal end contact under the distal portion is preferably provided at a section of this upper jaw distal end substantially perpendicular to the surface of the panel. Such embodiments are useful because gaps at the corners of cover panels comprising a plurality of such panels are better prevented.

In more preferred embodiments, contact is created between the distal end of the upper jaw below the distal portion and a jaw protruding from the male edge of another such panel. The male edge and the female edge are more preferably configured such that, when two such panels are joined, the protruding jaw overlaps the female edge in a direction parallel to the surface of the panel and perpendicular to the joined edges by an amount of at least 0.05 mm - and preferably by at least 0. 10 mm - so that in the connected state the protruding jaw contacts the female edge with pre-tension. This means that the protruding jaw will be in contact with the female edge, while the protruding jaw will be somewhat convex and/or curved. This ensures better contact between the protruding jaw and the female edge. This ensures that gaps between panel edges are better prevented, resulting in a more realistic simulation of notch grout in coatings (eg, floor coverings) incorporating such panels. This is an additional advantage of such embodiments - in particular for panels whose shortest edge length is rather long (e.g. longer than 300 mm) and/or (in any case not more than) square panels in which compensation can be made deviations from squareness due to manufacturing tolerances; providing a visually pleasing finish with a realistic grout look.

In preferred embodiments of the seventh aspect of the invention, the substrate includes a first layer and a second layer, the second layer being located closer to the surface of the panel than the first layer. The composition of the first layer is different from the composition of the second layer. The first layer contains a tongue and groove. The second layer is preferably formed from a softer material than the first layer. Such embodiments make it possible to create a more realistic grout simulation, for example by matching

- 25 045830 the color of the layer in which the recess is laid when this layer is formed (for example, by extrusion). The tongue formed in the stiffer second layer results in a strong bond between the edges of the panels.

In embodiments in which the jaw is formed protruding from the male edge, it is preferable that this jaw protruding from the male edge is provided in the second layer. This embodiment is particularly advantageous when the second layer is formed from a softer material than the first layer, since this allows pre-tensioning to better prevent gaps from occurring at the joined edges. Since the second layer is softer, the protruding lip will contact the female edge and protrude or flex as a result of the pre-tension created by the overlapping profiles of the male and female edge panels.

The first layer and/or second layer preferably includes a thermoplastic material, for example polyvinyl chloride, and fillers, optionally fillers including inorganic fillers, for example chalk or limestone.

In preferred embodiments of the seventh aspect of the invention, the recess extends into the second layer, but preferably not into the first layer. Such embodiments allow a more realistic grout simulation to be created, for example by matching the color of the second layer as the second layer is formed.

In preferred embodiments of the seventh aspect of the invention, the recess extends into the substrate and the proximal boundary of the recess extends substantially perpendicularly through the decorative layer. The advantage of such embodiments is that the cut through the decorative layer is practically invisible in the covering of such panels, where the exposed side of the edge is minimal and largely hidden from view.

The proximal edge of the recess preferably extends substantially perpendicularly through the panel to a distance less than the thickness of the decorative layer plus 0.15 mm; and preferably at a distance of less than 0.25 mm. In this way, the cut through the decorative layer is practically invisible, even when tool wear occurs or manufacturing tolerances occur; and in coatings incorporating such panels, a pleasant imitation of grout is obtained.

In preferred embodiments of the seventh aspect of the invention, the bottom surface of the distal portion is in the substrate, and the distal boundary of the distal portion extends substantially perpendicularly through the decorative layer. The advantage of such embodiments is that the cut through the decorative layer is virtually invisible in the covering of such panels, where the exposed side of the edge is minimal and largely hidden from view.

The distal boundary of the distal portion preferably extends substantially perpendicularly through the panel to a distance less than the thickness of the decorative layer plus 0.15 mm; and preferably at a distance of less than 0.25 mm. In this way, the cut through the decorative layer is practically invisible, even when tool wear occurs or manufacturing tolerances occur; and in coatings incorporating such panels, a pleasant imitation of grout is obtained.

In preferred embodiments of the seventh aspect of the invention, the depth of the recess relative to the surface of the panel is at least 0.4 mm, more preferably at least 0.5 mm. Such embodiments create an even more realistic grout simulation.

In preferred embodiments of the seventh aspect of the invention, the depth of the recess relative to the surface of the panel is less than 2 mm, more preferably less than 1.5 mm. Such embodiments create an even more realistic grout simulation.

In preferred embodiments of the seventh aspect of the invention, the panel may be connected to another such panel along its first pair of opposing edges, such that the male edge engages the female edge of another such panel by sliding the tongue of the panel at an angle into the groove of another such panel; and/or displacement with the effect of snapping the tongue of the panel into the groove of another such panel.

In preferred embodiments of the seventh aspect of the invention, in the joined state of two such panels along their first pair of opposing edges, the minimum distance at the female edge closest to the distal boundary of the distal portion perpendicular to the surface of the panel between the lower jaw and the tongue is at least 0.1 mm ; and more preferably at least 0.2 mm, and more preferably at most 0.3 mm. Such embodiments are advantageous since possible manufacturing tolerances, in particular milling tolerances of the connecting parts, will not cause difficulties during the installation of the panels.

In preferred embodiments of the seventh aspect of the invention, the panel includes a second pair of opposing edges, the second pair of opposing edges being configured as described for the first pair of opposing edges in any embodiment of the seventh aspect of the invention.

The eighth aspect of the invention relates to a panel. The panel includes a substrate and a top layer. The top layer includes a decorative layer and a wear layer. The decorative layer preferably includes a printed film. The panel at the first pair of opposite edges is equipped with connecting

- 26 045830 parts that cooperate with each other, essentially in the form of male connecting parts and female connecting parts, for connecting two such panels along their first pair of opposing edges to each other in a floor, wall or ceiling covering. A male connecting part is provided on the male edge of the panels. The connecting parts are provided with mechanical locking means that prevent displacement of the two connected panels in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels, as well as in a direction perpendicular to the corresponding connected edges in a plane parallel to the connected panels. A female connecting part is provided on the female edge of the panels. The male edge includes a tongue. The female coupling portion includes a groove defined by an upper jaw and a lower jaw, the lower jaw extending further than the upper jaw. The lower jaw includes a locking element, the lower part of the tongue includes a locking element, and in the connected state of two such panels along their first pair of opposing edges, the locking element of the lower jaw contacts the locking element of the tongue, thereby creating a closure of the connected panels along their first pair of opposite edges in the direction perpendicular to the joined edges and parallel to the surface of the joined panels. This closure is preferably created with pretension. The panel may be connected by its male edge of another such panel by sliding the tongue of the panel at an angle into the groove of another such panel. The lower jaw includes a protrusion at its upper side, the highest point of the protrusion being proximal to the locking member and distant from the outermost point of the upper jaw. The lower jaw, at its upper surface, includes a concave section, the concave section being concave from a point more proximal than the outermost point of the upper jaw to a distal point of the upper jaw. The concave section is placed close to the highest point of the protrusion.

The concave section is large enough and is configured such that the distal end of the tongue can be pushed into the concave section and subsequently removed from it when connecting the male edge of the panel by said sliding in at an angle.

The panels according to the eighth aspect of the invention have the advantage that the concave section allows the tongue to fit easily into the groove when joining the panels by sliding the tongue of the first such panel at an angle into the groove of the second such panel. This makes installation of the panels easier.

The panel of the eighth aspect of the invention is optionally a panel according to any consistent embodiment of any of the first aspect, second aspect, third aspect, fourth aspect, fifth aspect, sixth aspect or seventh aspect of the invention.

Panels that are formed according to any embodiment of the seventh aspect of the invention and any embodiment of the eighth aspect of the invention are very advantageous, since the features of the eighth aspect facilitate the operation of joining the panels according to the seventh aspect of the invention, since the concave section allows the tongue to be inserted into the groove in a manner that reduces minimizes the risk of damage when connecting the far section of the overlap jaw.

In preferred embodiments of the eighth aspect of the invention, the concave section includes a far side that makes an angle with the bottom of the panel of at least 50% of the far side by at least 10°, and preferably at least 15°, and preferably less than 25°. Such embodiments are preferred because the tongue may slide along this far side during angling. This guides and guides the tongue towards the correct joint position.

In preferred embodiments of the eighth aspect of the invention, the concave section includes a far side that makes an angle with the bottom of the panel of at least 10°, and preferably at least 15°, and preferably less than 25°, wherein said far side extends from the nearest distal end to the farthest end of the upper lip. Such embodiments are preferred because the tongue may slide along this far side as it is pushed in at an angle. This guides and guides the tongue towards the correct joint position.

A ninth aspect of the invention relates to a panel including a substrate and a top layer. The layer includes a decorative layer and a wear layer. The decorative layer preferably includes a printed film. The panel at the first pair of opposing edges is provided with connecting parts that cooperate with each other, essentially in the form of male connecting parts and female connecting parts, for connecting two such panels along their first pair of opposing edges to each other in a floor, wall or ceiling covering. A male connecting portion is provided on a male edge of the first pair of opposing edges. The connecting parts are provided with mechanical locking means that prevent displacement of the two connected panels in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels, as well as in a direction perpendicular to the corresponding connected edges in a plane parallel to the connected panels. A female connecting part is provided on a female edge of the first pair of opposing edges. The male connecting part includes a tongue. The female connecting portion includes a groove defined by an upper jaw and a lower jaw, wherein

- 27 045830 the lower jaw preferably extends further than the upper jaw. The lower jaw includes a locking element. The lower part of the tongue includes a locking element. In the connected state of two such panels along their first pair of opposing edges, the locking element of the lower jaw contacts the locking element of the tongue, thereby creating a closure of the connected panels along their first pair of opposing edges in a direction perpendicular to the connected edges and parallel to the surface of the connected panels; this closure is preferably achieved with pretension. The panel may be connected by its male edge to the female edge of another such panel by sliding the tongue of the panel at an angle into the groove of another such panel; and/or by sliding the male edge parallel to the panel surface with a snapping effect.

The lower jaw locking element includes a first contact surface, wherein the first contact surface is located at a proximal side of the locking element, and wherein the first contact surface has an angle of inclination between 20° and 35° - and preferably between 23° and 30° - with the bottom of the panel.

The lower jaw includes an inclined surface, the inclined surface being inclined relative to the bottom of the panel upward in a proximal direction of the panel, the inclined surface including a second contact surface; wherein the second contact surface has an angle of inclination between 20° and 35° - and preferably between 23° and 30° - with the lower part of the panel.

The lower part of the tongue includes a third contact surface, the third contact surface having an angle of inclination between 20° and 35° - and preferably between 23° and 30° - with the lower part of the panel.

The lower part of the tongue includes a fourth contact surface, the third contact surface having an angle of inclination between 20° and 35° - and preferably between 23° and 30° - with the lower part of the panel.

The first contact surface is provided for contacting, in a connected state, the female edge with the male edge of another such panel with a third contact surface of another such panel. The second contact surface is designed to contact, in a connected state, the female edge with the male edge of another such panel with the fourth contact surface of another such panel.

The panels according to the ninth aspect of the invention provide the possibility that shrinkage or expansion of the panel due to changes in temperature or humidity can be adjusted. When the panel experiences shrinkage or expansion, the inclined contact surface creating contact between the first contact surface and the third contact surface on the one hand, or between the second contact surface and the fourth contact surface on the other hand, will cause a force to resist the shrinkage or expansion of the panel. These forces may include elastic bending of the lower lip. When these forces are higher than a certain level, the tongue will slide over the bottom jaw along the contact surfaces; which may involve elastic bending of the lower lip. When there is a gap between the distal end of the male edge and the edge of the female edge, and there is a gap between the distal end of the lower jaw and the edge of the male edge; such expansion can be absorbed by the sliding movement of the connected panels relative to each other.

The panel according to the ninth aspect of the invention is optionally a panel according to any consistent embodiment of any of the first aspect, second aspect, third aspect, fourth aspect, fifth aspect, sixth aspect, seventh aspect or eighth aspect of the invention.

The ninth aspect of the invention may be advantageously combined with the seventh aspect of the invention. Combining the seventh aspect of the invention with the ninth aspect of the invention such that the mounted floating panels can expand or contract as temperature and/or humidity changes while the realistic grout simulation is maintained.

In preferred embodiments of the ninth aspect of the invention, in the connected state of the male edge of a panel with the female edge of another such panel, a gap is created in the horizontal direction between the distal end of the male edge and the edge of the female edge of another such panel so that the sideways expansion of the male edge can be absorbed the female edge of another such panel. Such embodiments may preferably be combined with any embodiment of the eighth aspect of the invention.

In preferred embodiments of the ninth aspect of the invention, in the connected state of the male edge of the panel with the female edge of another such panel, a gap is created in the horizontal direction between the distal end of the male edge and the edge of the female edge of another such panel so that the sideways expansion of the female edge can be absorbed the male edge of another such panel. Such embodiments may preferably be combined with any embodiment of the eighth aspect of the invention.

In preferred embodiments of the ninth aspect of the invention, the third contact surface and the fourth contact surface are on opposite sides of the shut-off element

- 28 045830 ment, which protrudes down from the tongue. Such embodiments may preferably be combined with any embodiment of the eighth aspect of the invention.

In preferred embodiments of any embodiment of the seventh aspect of the invention, the eighth aspect or the ninth aspect of the invention, the panel includes a second pair of opposing edges, wherein the second pair of opposing edges is provided with connecting parts that cooperate with each other, essentially in the form of male connecting parts and female connecting parts parts for connecting two such panels along their second pair of opposite edges to each other in a floor, wall or ceiling covering. The connecting parts of the second pair of opposing edges are provided with mechanical locking means that prevent displacement of the two connected panels in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels, as well as in a direction perpendicular to the corresponding connected edges in a plane parallel to the connected panels, and preferably in the connected state of two such panels along their second a pair of opposite edges at these connected edges creates an imitation of grout. The panel is preferably rectangular, oblong or square.

A tenth aspect of the invention relates to a panel including a substrate and a top layer. The top layer includes a decorative layer and a wear layer. The decorative layer preferably includes a printed film. The panel includes a second pair of opposing edges. The panel at the second pair of opposing edges is provided with second connecting parts that cooperate with each other, essentially in the form of second male connecting parts and second female connecting parts, for connecting two such panels along their second pair of opposing edges to each other in a floor, wall or ceiling coating. A second male connecting portion is provided at a second male edge of the second pair of opposing edges. A second female connecting portion is provided at a second female edge of the first pair of opposing edges. The second connecting parts are provided with second mechanical locking means that prevent displacement of two such connected panels at their second pair of opposing edges in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels, as well as in a direction perpendicular to the corresponding connected edges in a plane parallel to the connected panels. The second male edge includes a downwardly directed upper hook-shaped portion; wherein the downwardly directed upper hook-shaped portion includes and preferably consists of a jaw with a downwardly directed locking member that forms a second male connecting portion. The second female edge includes an upwardly directed lower hook-shaped portion; wherein the upwardly directed lower hook-shaped part includes - and preferably consists of - a jaw with an upwardly directed locking element, which, in the vicinity thereof, defines a second female connecting part in the form of a connecting recess. The second male connecting portion and the second female connecting portion are configured such that two such panels can be connected to each other along their respective second pair of opposing edges by sliding substantially perpendicular to the surface of the two such panels to be joined. The surface of the second female edge is provided with a recess, preferably said recess including at least a section parallel to the surface of the panel. The downwardly directed upper hook-shaped portion includes a distal portion extending from the second male edge. The lower surface of the distal portion is preferably located in the substrate. In the connected state of the second female edge with the second male edge of another such panel, a distal portion extending from the second male edge at least partially overlaps the recess at the surface of the second female edge. This overlap preferably creates contact between the bottom of the distal portion and the recess - more preferably this contact is pre-tensioned - or preferably the overlap has a gap between the bottom of the distal portion and the bottom of the recess - more preferably the gap between the bottom of the distal portion area and recess is at least 0.1 mm, and preferably less than 0.3 mm, and more preferably at most 0.2 mm.

The panels according to the tenth aspect of the invention create a very realistic grout simulation by means of a recess. Because the distal portion at least partially overlaps the recess when the panels are connected, the simulated grout appears as a continuous grout, with no visible joint line as is the case with other simulated grout already present in the panels before the panels are installed. The panels according to the tenth aspect of the invention can be connected easily for floating installation of the panels. In combination with proper implementation of the connecting parts at the first pair of opposing edges of the panels - for example, as described in any embodiment of the seventh, eighth or ninth aspect of the invention - the panels can be assembled into the covering in a folding manner. Of particular interest is the combination of the embodiment of the seventh aspect of the invention with the embodiments of the tenth aspect of the invention, since a very nice simulated grout is obtained in the coating formed from these panels around the entire perimeter of the panels.

The panel according to the tenth aspect of the invention is not necessarily a panel according to any consistent embodiment of any of the first aspect, the second aspect, the third

- 29 045830 of its aspect, fourth aspect, fifth aspect, sixth aspect, seventh aspect, eighth aspect or ninth aspect of the invention.

In preferred embodiments of the tenth aspect of the invention, the distal portion extending from the second male edge includes a chamfer. The chamfer can be a rounded, convex or concave chamfer. The chamfer may include a rounded, convex or concave section. Such embodiments have the advantage that an even more realistic grout simulation is created on the assembled panels.

In preferred embodiments of the tenth aspect of the invention, the second female edge includes a chamfer adjacent to the recess. The chamfer can be a rounded, convex or concave chamfer. The chamfer may include a rounded, convex or concave section. Such embodiments have the advantage that an even more realistic grout simulation is created on the assembled panels.

In preferred embodiments of the tenth aspect of the invention, the recess at the surface of the second female edge is provided with a layer of varnish. When the distal portion extending from the second male edge preferably includes a chamfer, this chamfer is preferably at least partially provided with a layer of varnish so that, in the joined state of two such panels along their second pair of opposing edges, the varnish layer of the recess visually continues into the varnish layer of the chamfer far section; and/or preferably, when the second female edge includes a chamfer adjacent to the recess, the recess varnish layer extends at least partially onto said chamfer. Such embodiments create an even more realistic grout simulation. The varnish layer can be painted to create an imitation grout with the desired color, so that an even more realistic imitation of grout is obtained.

In preferred embodiments of the tenth aspect of the invention, in which a varnish layer is provided, the varnish layer contains sand and/or particles, preferably having a particle size greater than 20 microns. Such embodiments create a simulated grout that exhibits some of the roughness achieved by real cement grout.

In preferred embodiments of the tenth aspect of the invention in which a varnish layer is provided, the varnish layer preferably has a thickness of less than 200 microns, more preferably a thickness of less than 100 microns, even more preferably a thickness of less than 60 microns.

In preferred embodiments of the tenth aspect of the invention, the recess at the surface of the second female edge has a width of at least 2 mm - and preferably at least 2.3 mm -; and/or wherein the recess at the surface of the second female edge in the joined panels has a visible width of at least 1.5 mm, more preferably at least 2 mm. Such embodiments create an even more realistic grout simulation.

In preferred embodiments of the tenth aspect of the invention, the distal end of the distal portion extending from the second male edge extends in the horizontal direction at a distance of at least 0.25 mm, and preferably at least 0.7 mm, from the second male edge. Such embodiments create an even more realistic grout simulation.

In preferred embodiments of the tenth aspect of the invention, a recess at the surface of the second female edge extends into the substrate. Such embodiments make it possible to create an improved panel. The color of the imitation grout can be created by the substrate or the varnish applied to it. The depth of the recess can be chosen so that it imitates the grout of a ceramic tile surface.

In preferred embodiments of the tenth aspect of the invention, the substrate includes a first layer and a second layer, the second layer being located closer to the surface of the panel than the first layer, and the composition of the first layer being different from the composition of the second layer. The second layer is more preferably made of a softer material than the first layer.

The first layer and/or second layer preferably includes a thermoplastic material, for example polyvinyl chloride, and fillers, optionally fillers including inorganic fillers, for example chalk or limestone.

In preferred embodiments of the tenth aspect of the invention, a recess at the surface of the second female edge extends into the second layer, but more preferably not into the first layer. Such embodiments allow a more realistic grout simulation to be created, for example by matching the color of the second layer as the second layer is formed.

In preferred embodiments of the tenth aspect of the invention, the recess at the surface of the second female edge extends into the substrate, and the proximal boundary of the recess at the surface of the second female edge extends substantially perpendicularly through the decorative layer. The proximal boundary of the recess at the surface of the second female edge more preferably extends substantially perpendicularly through the panel to a distance less than the thickness of the decorative layer plus 0.15 mm; and preferably at a distance of less than 0.25 mm. In this way, the cut through the decorative layer is practically invisible, even when tool wear occurs or manufacturing tolerances occur; and in coatings incorporating such panels, a pleasant imitation of grout is obtained.

In preferred embodiments of the tenth aspect of the invention, the bottom surface

- 30 045830 the distal portion extending from the second male edge is located in the substrate. The advantage of such embodiments is that the cut through the decorative layer is essentially invisible in the covering of such panels, where the exposed side of the edge is minimal and largely hidden from view.

The distal boundary of the distal portion extending from the second male edge preferably extends substantially perpendicularly through the decorative layer. The distal boundary of the distal portion extending from the second male edge more preferably extends substantially perpendicularly through the panel to a distance less than the thickness of the decorative layer plus 0.15 mm; and more preferably at a distance of less than 0.25 mm. In this way, the cut through the decorative layer is practically invisible, even when tool wear occurs or manufacturing tolerances occur; and in coatings incorporating such panels, a pleasant imitation of grout is obtained.

In preferred embodiments of the tenth aspect of the invention, the depth of the recess at the surface of the second female edge relative to the surface of the panel is at least 0.4 mm, more preferably at least 0.5 mm. Such embodiments create an even more realistic grout simulation.

In preferred embodiments of the tenth aspect of the invention, the depth of the recess at the surface of the second female edge relative to the surface of the panel is less than 2 mm, more preferably less than 1.5 mm. Such embodiments create an even more realistic grout simulation.

In preferred embodiments of the tenth aspect of the invention, the second locking means includes an undercut at the second female edge. The undercut is designed to interact with a downward locking member—preferably a locking member at a distal end of the downward locking member—of yet another such panel to create a closure perpendicular to the surface of the panels at the distal end of the downward locking member of yet another such panel.

In preferred embodiments of the tenth aspect of the invention, the second pair of opposing edges is configured such that there is no shorting in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels at the second pair of opposing edges between the distal end of the second male edge and the proximal end of the second female edge.

In preferred embodiments of the tenth aspect of the invention, the second pair of opposing edges is configured such that closure in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels is not provided at their second pair of opposing edges at either the proximal end of the upward closure element or the proximal end of the downward closure element.

In preferred embodiments of the tenth aspect of the invention, the proximal end of the downward closure element includes a first inclined contact surface. The proximal end of the upwardly directed closure member includes a second inclined contact surface. In the connected state of two such panels, at their second pair of opposing edges, a first inclined contact surface of the first such panel contacts a second inclined contact surface of the third such panel; or close to it, thereby creating a closure of the connected panels in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels. This closure is preferably created with pretension.

In preferred embodiments of the tenth aspect of the invention, the second pair of opposing edges is configured such that, in the connected state of two such panels, their second pair of opposing edges has a short circuit in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels at the distal end of the upwardly directed locking element. This short circuit can be created with or without contact.

The distal end of the upwardly directed locking element more preferably includes an undercut or projection, the lower surface of the undercut or projection being provided to create a closure in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels.

In preferred embodiments of the tenth aspect of the invention, the upward locking member contacts the proximal end of the edge of the panel to which it is associated at the distal end of the upward locking member; and/or the distal end of the upward locking member includes an undercut, and the upward locking member contacts the proximal end of the edge of the panel with which it is associated at the undercut of the upward locking member; thereby creating a short circuit in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels.

In preferred embodiments of the tenth aspect of the invention, the proximal end of the second male edge includes a corresponding hook, the corresponding hook being provided to engage an upwardly oriented locking element of the connected panel to create a closure in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels.

In preferred embodiments of the tenth aspect of the invention, the connecting portions of the first pair of opposing edges and the second connecting portions of the second pair of opposing edges are configured such that a plurality of such panels can be joined into a covering using

- 31 045830 We use the folding installation method.

In a preferred embodiment of any of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth or tenth aspect of the invention, the decorative layer is a printed decorative layer, preferably a polymer film - for example, a polyvinyl chloride film - including a printed image. The printed decorative layer more preferably includes, or consists of, a printed polyvinyl chloride film with a thickness of less than 0.1 mm. The printed decorative layer may have a thickness of, for example, 0.055 mm. Such embodiments make it possible to create an imitation of natural stone or tile.

In a preferred embodiment of any of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth or tenth aspect of the invention, the wear layer includes, and preferably consists of, a clear polymer film, preferably a clear polyvinyl chloride film. Such embodiments provide good abrasion resistance properties of the panels.

In a preferred embodiment of any of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth or tenth aspect of the invention, the wear layer includes a clear varnish layer, for example an acrylate varnish layer or a polyurethane-acrylate varnish layer, more preferably a UV layer -curable acrylate varnish or a layer of UV-curable polyurethane acrylate varnish. Such embodiments provide good abrasion resistance properties of the panels.

In a preferred embodiment of any of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth or tenth aspect of the invention, the panel includes an embossed surface. Such embodiments make it possible to create an even more realistic imitation of natural stone or tile.

In a preferred embodiment of any of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth or tenth aspect of the invention, the support includes - and preferably consists of - at least one polymer support layer including fillers. The backing polymer layer is more preferably a thermoplastic polymer layer, more preferably a polyvinyl chloride polymer layer.

When fillers are used, the fillers preferably include, or consist of, mineral fillers, for example selected from one or more of chalk, limestone or stone; or fillers include particles or fibers of wood or cellulose.

In a preferred embodiment of any of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth or tenth aspect of the invention, the substrate includes a mineral binder material, optionally selected from gypsum, magnesium oxide, Sorel cement or Portland cement. The support includes fillers, optionally selected from wood flour, wood fiber or wood particles. In such preferred embodiments, the decorative layer includes a printed paper sheet, more preferably the printed paper sheet is impregnated with melamine resin. In preferred embodiments, the wear layer includes one or more paper layers impregnated with a polymer, more preferably the paper layers are impregnated with melamine resin.

In a preferred embodiment of any of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth or tenth aspect of the invention, the substrate comprises a medium density fiberboard (MDF) panel or a high density fiberboard (HDF) panel. One or more than one of all edges of the panels optionally includes chamfers, preferably the chamfers are pressed chamfers. In such preferred embodiments, the decorative layer includes a printed paper sheet, more preferably the printed paper sheet is impregnated with melamine resin. In preferred embodiments, the wear layer includes one or more paper layers impregnated with a polymer, more preferably the paper layers are impregnated with melamine resin.

Preferred embodiments are those in which the chamfers are pressed chamfers where the decorative layer follows the shape of the chamfer edge, which is combined with simulated grout as in various aspects of the invention, helping to create a highly realistic simulated grout.

In a preferred embodiment of any of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth or tenth aspect of the invention, the rear side of the panel includes a base layer, more preferably a shock-absorbing base layer. Such embodiments make it possible to create panels with improved acoustic characteristics. For example, less noise is created when walking on such floor panels.

In a preferred embodiment of any of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth or tenth aspect of the invention, the panel thickness is between 3.2 and 7 mm; The thickness of the panel is more preferably less than 4.5 mm.

In a preferred embodiment of any of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth or tenth aspects of the invention, the decorative layer creates a stone or tile appearance. Such embodiments allow the creation of panels that provide a realistic imitation of stone or tile.

In a preferred embodiment of any of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth or tenth aspect of the invention, the panel is rectangular, either elongated or square. The shortest side of the panel preferably has a length of at least 300 mm.

In a preferred embodiment of any of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth or tenth aspect of the invention, the panel is square and the sides of the panels are greater than 300 mm, more preferably greater than 400 mm, and even more preferably over 500 mm. Such embodiments allow the creation of large square panels that imitate natural stone or tile; and optionally have mechanical locking means for floating installation of the panels, for example as flooring, while still displaying a realistic grout simulation.

An eleventh aspect of the invention is a panel package containing a plurality of panels, as in any embodiment of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth or tenth aspect of the invention. The panels are layered on top of each other; and packaging includes sheathing around the laminated panels.

A further aspect of the invention is a covering - for example, a floor covering, a wall covering or a ceiling covering - comprising panels as in any embodiment of any aspect of the invention.

Brief description of drawings

Fig. 1 shows an example of a panel according to the first aspect of the invention.

Fig. 2 shows a cross section along line II-II of the panel of FIG. 1.

Fig. 3 shows two panels as in FIG. 1, connected along their first pair of opposite edges.

Fig. 4 shows a cross section along line IV-IV of the panel of FIG. 1.

Fig. 5 shows two panels as in FIG. 1, connected along their second pair of opposite edges.

Fig. 6 shows - in the same form as in FIG. 5 is another embodiment of the first aspect of the invention.

Fig. 7 shows an embodiment of the first aspect of the invention in which a central recess is provided.

Fig. 8 shows, in the same form as in FIG. 2, another embodiment of the first aspect of the invention.

Fig. 9 shows, in the same form as in FIG. 4, another embodiment of the first aspect of the invention.

Fig. 10 illustrates the method of installing panels by folding.

Fig. 11 shows an example of a panel according to the second aspect of the invention.

Fig. 12 shows two panels as in FIG. 11, in the connected state.

Fig. 13 shows an example of a panel according to the third aspect of the invention.

Fig. 14 shows a cross section along line XIV-XIV of the panel of FIG. 13.

Fig. 15 shows two panels as in FIG. 13, connected along their first pair of opposing edges.

Fig. 16 shows a cross section along line XVI-XVI of the panel of FIG. 13.

Fig. 17 shows two panels as in FIG. 13, connected along their second pair of opposing edges.

Fig. 18 shows - in the same form as in FIG. 17 is another embodiment of the third aspect of the invention.

Fig. 19 shows an embodiment of the third aspect of the invention in which a central recess is provided.

Fig. 20 shows, in the same form as in FIG. 14, another embodiment of the first aspect of the invention.

Fig. 21 shows, in the same form as in FIG. 16, another embodiment of the first aspect of the invention.

Fig. 22 shows a panel according to an embodiment of the fourth aspect of the invention.

Fig. 23 shows two panels as in FIG. 22, in the connected state.

Fig. 24 shows a cross section of a panel according to an embodiment of the fifth aspect of the invention.

Fig. 25 shows two panels as in FIG. 24, in the connected state.

Fig. 26 shows a cross-section at a second pair of opposing panel edges according to an embodiment of the fifth aspect of the invention.

- 33 045830

Fig. 27 shows two panels as in FIG. 26, in the connected state.

Fig. 28 shows a cross section of a panel according to an embodiment of the fifth aspect of the invention.

Fig. 29 shows two panels as in FIG. 28, in the connected state.

Fig. 30 shows a cross section of a panel according to an embodiment of the fifth aspect of the invention.

Fig. 31 and 32 show two panels as in FIG. 30, in connected state.

Fig. 33 shows panels according to an embodiment of the fifth aspect of the invention in a connected state.

Fig. 34 illustrates a first pair of opposing panel edges according to an embodiment of the sixth aspect of the invention.

Fig. 35 shows two panels as in FIG. 34 connected along their first pair of opposing edges.

Fig. 36 shows panels according to an embodiment of the sixth aspect of the invention joined at their second pair of opposing edges.

Fig. 37 shows panels according to yet another embodiment of the sixth aspect of the invention joined at their second pair of opposing edges.

Fig. 38 shows panels according to yet another embodiment of the sixth aspect of the invention joined at their second pair of opposing edges.

Fig. 39 shows an example of a panel according to a seventh aspect, an eighth aspect and a ninth aspect of the invention.

Fig. 40 shows two panels as shown in FIG. 39, with a connected state along their first pair of opposing edges.

Fig. 41 shows another example of panels according to the seventh aspect, the eighth aspect and the ninth aspect of the invention, in a connected state along their first pair of opposing edges.

Fig. 42 and 43 show examples of panels according to the seventh aspect, eighth aspect and ninth aspect of the invention.

Fig. 44 shows a first pair of opposing panel edges in accordance with at least a seventh aspect of the invention.

Fig. 45 shows two panels according to FIG. 44, connected to each other along their first pair of opposing edges.

Fig. 46 shows a first pair of opposing panel edges in accordance with at least a seventh aspect of the invention.

Fig. 47 shows two panels according to FIG. 46, connected to each other along their first pair of opposing edges.

Fig. 48 shows an embodiment of panels according to at least the seventh aspect of the invention joined at their first pair of opposing edges.

Fig. 49 shows a panel according to the tenth aspect of the invention.

Fig. 50 shows two panels as in FIG. 49, in a connected state along their second pair of opposing edges.

Fig. 51 and 52 show embodiments of the tenth aspect of the invention in the same form as in FIG. 50.

Fig. 53 shows an embodiment of the tenth aspect of the invention in the same form as in FIG. 50.

Embodiment(s) of the invention

Fig. 1-9 illustrate the first aspect of the invention. Fig. 1 shows an example of a panel according to the first aspect of the invention. Panel 1 is rectangular and elongated. Panel 1 includes a first pair of opposing edges 3, 4, and a second pair of opposing edges 5, 6. A male edge 3 includes a recess 30. A second male edge 5 includes a second recess 36. A central recess 33 is located parallel to and in the middle of the first pair of opposing edges 3, 4. The second central recess is placed parallel to and in the middle of the second pair of opposing edges 5, 6. The recess 30, the second recess 36, the central recess 33 and the second central recess 37 are provided with a layer of varnish 31, which, when connected, will simulate grout. The recess 30, the second recess 36, the central recess 33 and the second central recess 37 each have the same width in this example; and their 31 varnish layers have the same composition.

The edge of the panel where the recess 30 is located creates a connection with the edge of the panel where the second recess 33 is provided at the joint 38. At the joint, the varnish layer 31 of the recess 30 continues without interruption into the varnish layer 31 of the second recess 36.

Fig. 2 shows a cross section along the line II-II of the panel in FIG. 1. Fig. 3 shows two panels as in FIG. 1, connected along their first pair of opposite edges. Panel 1 includes a backing layer 10 and a top layer 11. The top layer 11 includes a decorative layer 20 and a wear layer 21. The panel at the first pair of opposite edges 3, 4 is equipped with connecting parts 7, 8, which are mutually

- 34 045830 act with each other, essentially in the form of male connecting parts 7 and female connecting parts 8, to connect two such panels along their first pair of opposing edges 3, 4 to each other in a floor, wall or ceiling covering. The male connecting part 7 is located on the male edge 3 of the first pair of opposing edges. The female connecting part 8 is located on the female edge 4 of the first pair of opposing edges.

The male connecting part 7, located at the male edge 3, includes a tongue 53 extending in a direction parallel to the surface of the panel. The female edge 4 includes a groove 54 creating a female coupling portion 8. The groove is defined by an upper jaw 55 and a lower jaw 56. The lower jaw extends further than the upper jaw. The lower jaw 56 includes a locking element 13. The lower part of the tongue 53 includes a locking element 14. In the connected state of two such panels 1 along their first pair of opposing edges 3, 4, the locking element of the lower jaw 13 contacts the locking element 14 of the tongue, thereby creating a closure of the connected panels along their first pair of opposing edges 3, 4 in a direction perpendicular to the connected edges and parallel to the surface of the connected panels. Preferably, this closure is created with pretension. The locking element 13 of the lower jaw 13 is located remotely from the distal end of the upper jaw 55.

The connecting portions of the first pair of opposing edges 3, 4 are designed such that the first such panel can be connected by its male edge by sliding at an angle into the female edge of the second such panel and by a substantially horizontal sliding displacement with a clicking effect.

The female edge 4 includes a first closing plane 61, and the male edge 3 includes a second closing plane 62. In the connected state of two such panels, at their first pair of opposing edges 3, 4, the first closing plane of the first such panel is in contact with the second closing plane of the second such panel, thereby thereby creating a contact surface between two connected such panels, the contact surface being substantially perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels.

The surface of the male edge 3 is provided with a recess 30. The recess 30 extends deeper into the panel than the location of the decorative layer 20. The recess is provided with a varnish layer 31; to simulate grouting in the connected state of the panels. In the illustrated embodiment, part of the side edge 34 of the recess 30 is provided with a layer 30 of varnish. This hides the decorative layer 20 from view at the male edge.

In the example shown, the recess 30 extends in a direction parallel to the surface of the panel and perpendicular to the first pair of opposing edges 3, 4 in the nearest direction at least vertically above the locking element 14 of the lower jaw 56, which will contact the locking element 13 of the tongue 53 in the connected state of two such panels along their first pair of opposite edges 3, 4.

The female edge 4 of the first pair of opposing edges 3, 4 is located above the section provided with a layer of varnish 31. A layer of varnish on this female edge hides the decorative layer 20 from view at the female edge 4. In this way, a layer of varnish at the side edge 34 of the recess and at the female edge 4 helps to create a more realistic grout simulation of the joined panels. It is preferable that each of said varnish layers has the same composition.

One or all of said varnish layers 31 optionally include sand and/or particles, preferably having a particle size greater than 20 microns.

The configuration shown in FIG. 2 for the first pair of opposing edges of the panel 1 may also be provided for the second pair of opposing edges.

Fig. 4 shows a cross section along line IV-IV of the panel of FIG. 1. Fig. 5 shows two panels as in FIG. 1, connected along their second pair of opposing edges 5, 6. The panel 1 includes a second pair of opposing edges 5, 6. The panel at the second pair of opposing edges 5, 6 is provided with second connecting parts 27, 28, which cooperate with each other, essentially in the form of second male connecting parts 27 and second female connecting parts 28, for connecting two such panels along their second pair of opposing edges 5, 6 to each other in a floor, wall or ceiling covering. The second male connecting part 27 is located at the second male edge 5 of the second pair of opposing edges. The second female connecting part 28 is located at the female edge 6 of the panel. The second connecting parts are provided with mechanical locking means that prevent movement of two such panels connected at their second pair of opposing edges in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels, as well as in a direction perpendicular to the corresponding connected edges in a plane parallel to the connected panels.

The second male edge 5 includes a second downwardly directed upper hook portion 64. The second downwardly directed upper hook portion 64 includes a jaw 65 with a second downwardly directed locking member 66 that defines a second male connection portion 27.

The second female edge 6 includes a second upwardly directed lower hook-shaped portion 67. The second upwardly directed upper hook-shaped portion 67 includes a jaw 68 with a second upwardly directed locking element 69 which, in proximity thereto, defines a second female connecting part 28 in the form of a second connecting piece. recesses 72. The second male connecting part and the second female connecting part are configured such that two such panels can be connected to each other along their respective second pair of opposing edges by moving M substantially perpendicular to the surface of the panels connected in this way.

The edges of the second pair of opposing edges 5, 6 are provided with mechanical locking means such that, in the connected state of the first such panel with another such panel along their second pair of opposing edges, a closure perpendicular to the surface of the panels is created at the distal end of the second downwardly directed panel locking element 66. For this purpose, the closure means includes a second undercut 73 at the second female edge 6. The second undercut 73 is designed to engage a closure element 81 at the distal end of the second downward closure element 66 of the connected panel, thereby creating a closure perpendicular to the surface of the panels at the distal end of the second downward closure panel locking element.

The proximal end of the second downward closure element 66 includes a third inclined contact surface 74. The proximal end of the second upward closure element 69 includes a fourth inclined contact surface 75. In the connected state of two such panels connected at their second pair of opposing edges, the third inclined contact surface 74 the first such panel contacts the fourth inclined contact surface 75 of the third such panel, thereby creating a short circuit of the connected panels in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels. This closure is preferably created with pretension.

The second pair of opposing edges is configured such that, in the connected state of two such panels, there is no connection along their second pair of opposing edges in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels at the distal end of the upwardly directed locking element 69.

The second female edge 6 includes a first closing plane 61, and the second male edge 5 includes a second closing plane 62. In the connected state of two such panels, along their second pair of opposing edges, the first closing plane of the first such panel contacts the second closing plane of the second such panel, thereby creating the most contact surface between two connected such panels, the contact surface being substantially perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels.

The surface of the second female edge 6 is provided with a second recess 36. The second recess 36 extends deeper into the panel than the location of the decorative layer 20. The second recess 36 is provided with a varnish layer 31; to simulate grouting in the connected state of the panels. In the embodiment shown, part of the side edge 34 of the second recess 36 is provided with a varnish layer 30. This hides the decorative layer 20 from view at the female edge 6.

The second male edge 5 of the second pair of opposing edges 5, 6 is located above the section provided with a layer of varnish 31. A layer of varnish on this male edge hides the decorative layer 20 from view at the male edge 5. The layer of varnish at the side edge 34 of the second recess and at the second male edge 6 thereby contributes to a more realistic grout simulation of the joined panels. It is preferable that each of said varnish layers has the same composition. This also applies to both the varnish layers applied at the first pair of opposing edges and the varnish layers applied at the second pair of opposing edges.

One or all of said varnish layers 31 optionally include sand and/or particles, preferably having a particle size greater than 20 microns.

The configuration shown in FIG. 4 for the second pair of opposing edges of the panel 1 may also be provided at the first pair of opposing edges.

Fig. 6 shows - in the same form as FIG. 5 is another embodiment of the first aspect of the invention. Code numbers of positions in Fig. 6 have the same meaning as in FIG. 5. Difference between panels fig. 5 and 6 relate to a locking means which, in a connected state at the second pair of opposing edges 5, 6, creates a closure in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the panel.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the edges of the second pair of panel edges are configured such that closure in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the panels between the panels connected at their second pair of opposing edges 5, 6 is provided neither at the proximal end of the second upwardly directed closure element 69, nor at the proximal end of the second upwardly directed closure element 69. down the locking element 66.

In the same manner as in the embodiment according to FIG. 5, the closure includes a second undercut 73 at the second female edge 6. The second undercut 73 is configured to engage a closure 81 at the distal end of the second downward closure 66 of the connected panel, thereby creating a closure perpendicular to the surface of the panels at the distal end of the second downward closure panels.

In addition, the second pair of opposing edges 5, 6 in the embodiment shown in FIG. 6 is designed such that, in the connected state of two such panels, at their second pair of opposing edges, a closure in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels is created at the distal end of the second upwardly directed locking element 69. Embodiments may be provided in which this closure created with a contact, and embodiments may be provided in which this closure occurs without a contact. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the distal end of the second upward closure member 69 includes an undercut 76. The bottom surface of this undercut 76 is designed to create a closure in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels. For this purpose, the proximal end of the second male edge 5 includes a second corresponding hook 78 designed to engage an undercut 76 at the distal end of the second upward locking element 69 of the joined panel to achieve closure in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels.

The configuration shown in FIG. 6 for the second pair of opposing edges of the panel 1 may also be provided at the first pair of opposing edges.

Fig. 7 shows an embodiment of a panel according to the first aspect of the invention, in which a central recess 33 is provided. The reference numerals have the same meaning as in the other figures. This central recess 33 may be provided in a configuration as shown in the panel of FIG. 1. The central recess 33 extends deeper into the panel than the location of the decorative layer 20. The central recess 33 is provided with a varnish layer 31. This varnish layer optionally includes sand and/or particles, preferably having a particle size greater than 20 microns. As illustrated in FIG. 7, part of the side edges 34 of the central recess is provided with a varnish layer 31 in such a way that the decorative layer is not visible at the side edges 34 of the central recess 33.

Fig. 8 shows, in the same form as in FIG. 2, another embodiment of the first aspect of the invention. The same reference numbers have the same meaning. The difference between the embodiment shown in FIG. 8 from the embodiment shown in FIG. 2 is that the recess 30 is formed at the female edge 4, instead of the male edge 3. The recess extends in a direction parallel to the surface of the panel and perpendicular to the first pair of opposing edges 3, 4 in the proximate direction to a location outside the proximal end of the groove 54. Male edge 3 the first pair of opposing edges 3, 4 is located above the section provided with a layer of varnish 31. A layer of varnish on this male edge hides the decorative layer 20 at the male edge 3 from view, helping to create a more realistic grout simulation in the joined state of the panels at their first pair of opposing edges 3, 4. The configuration according to FIG. 8 is described for a first pair of opposing edges, but may also be provided for a second pair of opposing edges of the panel.

Fig. 9 shows, in the same form as in FIG. 4, another embodiment of the first aspect of the invention. The panel configuration at the second pair of opposing edges 5, 6 is similar to that in FIG. 4. The same item code numbers have the same meaning. The difference between the embodiment according to FIG. 9 and the embodiment according to FIG. 4 is that the second recess 36 in FIG. 9 is provided at the second male edge 5, instead of being located at the second female edge 6. The second female edge 6 of the second pair of opposing edges 5, 6 is located above the section provided with the varnish layer 31. The layer of varnish on this female edge hides the decorative layer 20 of the female edge 6 from view.

The configuration according to Fig. 9 is described for the first pair of opposing edges, but may also be applicable to the second pair of opposing edges of the panel.

Fig. 10 illustrates a panel folding assembly method, eg panels according to the first, third, fifth or sixth aspect of the invention. The panels 1 include a first pair of opposing edges 3, 4 and a second pair of opposing edges 5, 6. The edges are designed such that the male edge 3 of the first pair of opposing edges can be connected by sliding W at an angle into the female edge 5 of such a panel already installed. As an example, the first pair of opposing edges 3, 4 of FIG. 2 enables such a connection by moving W at an angle.

With the same angled movement W, the male edge 5 of the second pair of opposing edges can be connected by sliding downward with the female edge 6 of the second pair of opposing edges on the already installed panel.

Fig. 11 and 12 illustrate panels 1 according to the second aspect of the invention. Unless otherwise noted, reference numerals have the same meaning as in FIG. 1-9. The difference between panel 1 shown in FIG. 11 - and in the connected state in FIG. 12 - from the panels illustrated in FIG. 1-9 is that the panel does not include connecting parts. The panel includes a first pair of opposing edges 3, 4. The first pair of opposing edges includes a first edge 3 and a second edge 4. The first edge 3 is made to face - and preferably contact - the second edge 4 of a second such panel 1, when mounting a plurality of such panels in a covering . The panel may be glued to a surface to form a coating on that surface. The second edge 4 includes a first closing plane 61, and the first edge 3 includes a second closing plane 62.

Panel 1 according to figure 11 includes a central recess 33 placed parallel to the recess

- 37 045830 and parallel to the first pair of opposing edges 3, 4. In the example shown, the central recess 33 is located midway between the first pair of opposing edges 3, 4. The central recess 33 extends deeper into the panel than the location of the decorative layer. The central recess 33 is provided with a layer 31 of varnish, optionally including sand and/or particles, preferably having a particle size greater than 20 microns. Part of the side edges 34 of the recess 30 and the central recess 33 is provided with a varnish layer 31, and thus the decorative layer 20 is not visible at these side edges.

The second edge section 4 is provided with a layer 31 of varnish.

Fig. 12 shows two panels as shown in FIG. 11, in a connected state along their first pair of opposing edges 3, 4. The panels can be installed by gluing them to the subfloor.

The first closing plane 61 of the second edge 1 contacts the second closing plane 62 of another such panel, thereby creating a contact surface between the two connected panels. The contact surface is substantially perpendicular to the surface of the mounted panels.

After the panels are installed, a layer of varnish 31 in the recesses, at the side edges of the recesses and the section of the second edge 4, creates a realistic imitation of grout, while grouting is not required after the panels are installed.

Fig. 13-21 illustrate the third aspect of the invention in the same manner as FIGS. 1-9 illustrate the first aspect of the invention. Fig. 22-23 illustrate the fourth aspect of the invention in the same manner as FIGS. 11-12 illustrate the second aspect of the invention. Reference numbers in FIG. 12-13 have the same meaning as in the corresponding figures 1-9 and 11-12.

Fig. 13 shows an embodiment of a panel according to the third aspect of the invention. Fig. 14 shows a cross section along line XIV-XIV of the panel according to FIG. 13. FIG. 15 shows two panels as in FIG. 13, connected along their first pair of opposing edges. Fig. 16 shows a cross section along line XVI-XVI of the panel according to FIG. 13. Fig. 17 shows two panels as in FIG. 13, connected along their second pair of opposing edges. Fig. 18 shows - in the same form as in FIG. 17 is another embodiment of the third aspect of the invention. Fig. 19 shows an embodiment of the third aspect of the invention in which a central recess is provided. Fig. 20 shows, in the same form as in FIG. 14, another embodiment of the first aspect of the invention. Fig. 21 shows, in the same form as in FIG. 16, another embodiment of the first aspect of the invention. Fig. 22 shows a panel according to an embodiment of the fourth aspect of the invention. Fig. 23 shows two panels as in FIG. 22, in the connected state.

The difference between fig. 13-21 illustrating the third aspect of the invention, and FIG. 1-9, illustrating the first aspect of the invention, is that instead of placing in recess 30, second recess 36, central recess 33, or second recess 36 a layer of varnish (which is coded 31 in FIGS. 1-9), recess 30 , the second recess 36, the central recess 33, or the second recess 36 includes a polymer filler material 71. The polymer filler material 71 fills the recess, or the second recess, or the central recess of the second central recess, at least partially, with the polymer filler material 71 extending vertically from a position below the location of the decorative layer 20 to a position vertically above the location of the decorative layer 20 in the panel 1. Thus, the decorative layer 20 at the edge, about which the edge including the recess (and thereby the polymer filler material 71) is attached or aligned or contacts, is hidden from view. In preferred embodiments of the third and fourth aspects of the invention, the thickness of the polymer filler material 71 is greater than 400 microns, more preferably greater than 500 microns, more preferably greater than 700 microns.

The difference between fig. 11 and 12 illustrating the second aspect of the invention, and Figures 22 and 23 illustrating the fourth aspect of the invention, is that instead of the recess 30 and the central recess 33 being provided with a layer of varnish (which is coded 31 in Figs. 11-12) , recess 30 and central recess 33 include polymer filler material 71. The polymer filler material 71 fills the recess 30 and the central recess 33 at least partially, with the polymer filler material 71 extending vertically from a position below the location of the decorative layer 20 to a position vertically above the location of the decorative layer 20 in the panel 1. Thereby, the decorative layer 20 the edge about which the edge including the recess (and thereby the polymer filler material 71) is attached or aligned or contacts is hidden from view. In preferred embodiments of the third and fourth aspects of the invention, the thickness of the polymer filler material 71 is greater than 400 microns, more preferably greater than 500 microns, more preferably greater than 700 microns.

Fig. 24-33 illustrate the fifth aspect of the invention.

Fig. 24 shows a cross section of the panel 1 according to an embodiment of the fifth aspect of the invention.

Fig. 25 shows two panels as in FIG. 24, in a connected state along their first pair of opposing edges 3, 4.

Panel 1 in Fig. 24 and 25 include a backing layer 10 and a top layer 11. The top layer 11 includes a decorative layer 20 and a wear layer 21. Panel 1 at the first pair of opposing edges 3, 4 is equipped

- 38 045830 connecting parts 7, 8, which interact with each other, essentially in the form of male connecting parts 7 and female connecting parts 8, for connecting two such panels along their first pair of opposing edges 3, 4 to each other in a floor, wall or ceiling covering. The male connecting part 7 is located on the male edge 3 of the first pair of opposing edges. The female connecting part 8 is located on the female edge 4 of the first pair of opposing edges.

The male connecting part 7, located at the male edge 3, includes a tongue 53 extending in a direction parallel to the surface of the panel. The female edge 4 includes a groove 54 creating a female coupling portion 8. The groove is defined by an upper jaw 55 and a lower jaw 56. The lower jaw extends further than the upper jaw. The lower jaw 56 includes a locking element 13. The lower part of the tongue 53 includes a locking element 14. In the connected state of two such panels 1 along their first pair of opposite edges 3, 4, the locking element of the lower jaw 13 contacts the locking element of the tongue 14, thereby creating a closure of the connected panels along their first pair of opposing edges in a direction perpendicular to the joined edges and parallel to the surface of the joined panels. Preferably, this closure is created with pre-tension. The locking element 13 of the lower jaw 13 is located remotely from the distal end of the upper jaw 55.

The connecting parts of the first pair of opposing edges 3, 4 are designed so that the first such panel can be connected by its male edge by sliding at an angle into the female edge of the second such panel and by a substantially horizontal sliding displacement with a snap-in effect.

The male edge 3, and more particularly the tongue 53, which constitutes the male connecting part 7, includes a top surface section 40 that is provided below the surface of the floor panel and below the location of the decorative layer 20. The visual appearance of the said top surface of the said section differs throughout its entire surface from visual appearance of the decorative layer 20. In the connected state of the first such panel, at its male edge 3 on the female edge 4 of the second such panel, the female edge 4 overlaps part of the upper surface of the specified section 40 of the male edge 3 of the first such panel, so that part 41 of the upper surface of the specified section 40 of the male edge of the first such panel is hidden from view, and a portion 42 of the top surface of said section is visible when viewed perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels. The visible part creates an imitation of grout when the panels are connected. The portion of the top surface of said section that is visible perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels preferably has a width of at least 1.5 mm, more preferably a width of at least 2 mm, more preferably a width of at least 3 mm, more preferably a width of at least 3 mm .5 mm, and preferably less than 5 mm wide.

Preferably, at least a portion of the top surface - and preferably all of said section 42 - that is visible when viewed perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels is parallel to the surface of the floor panel. This preferred embodiment increases the reality of the created grout simulation.

The male edge 3 and the female edge 4 each include a chamfer 51. These chamfers 51 are convex chamfers and are at least partially curved. The chamfer 51 of the male edge 3 is essentially a mirror image of the chamfer 51 of the female edge 4.

The edge configuration as shown in Fig. 24 and 25 can also be used on the second pair of opposing panel edges.

Fig. 26 shows a cross-section of a second pair of opposing edges of a rectangular panel, whether square or elongated, according to an embodiment of the fifth aspect of the invention. Fig. 27 shows two panels as in FIG. 26 in a connected state.

The panel 1 includes a second pair of opposing edges 5, 6. The panel 1 of the second pair of opposing edges 5, 6 is provided with second connecting parts 27, 28, which cooperate with each other, essentially in the form of second male connecting parts 27 and second female connecting parts 28 , for connecting two such panels along their second pair of opposite edges to each other in a floor, wall or ceiling covering. The second male connecting part 27 is located on the second male edge 5 of the second pair of opposing edges. The second female connecting part 28 is located on the second female edge 6 of the panels.

The second male edge 5 includes a second downwardly directed upper hook portion 64. The second downwardly directed upper hook portion 64 includes a jaw 65 with a second downwardly directed locking member 66 that defines a second male connection portion 27.

The second female edge 6 includes a second upwardly directed lower hook portion 67. The second upwardly directed lower hook portion 67 includes a jaw 68 with a second upwardly directed locking member 69 which, adjacent thereto, defines a second female connecting portion 28 in the form of a second connecting recess 72. the male connecting part and the second female connecting part are designed so that two such panels can be connected to each other along their respective second pair of opposing edges by movement

M is substantially perpendicular to the surface of the panels thus joined.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 26 and 27, the edges of the second pair of panel edges are configured such that closure in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the panels between the panels connected at their second pair of opposing edges 5, 6 is provided neither at the proximal end of the second upwardly directed closure member 69 nor at the proximal end the second downwardly directed locking element 66.

The locking means includes a second undercut 73 at the second female edge 6. The second undercut 73 is provided to engage a lock 81 at the distal end of the second downward locking member 66 of the connected panel, thereby creating a closure perpendicular to the surface of the panels at the distal end of the second downward locking member of the panel. .

The second pair of opposing edges 5, 6 in the embodiment shown in FIG. 26 and 27 is configured such that, in the connected state of two such panels at their second pair of opposing edges, closure occurs in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels at the distal end of the second upwardly directed closure element 69. Embodiments may be provided in which this closure occurs with contact, and embodiments may be provided in which this closure occurs without contact. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 26 and 27, the distal end of the second upward closure member 69 includes an undercut 76. The bottom surface of this undercut 76 is designed to create a closure in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels. For this purpose, the proximal end of the second male edge 5 includes a second corresponding hook 78 designed to engage an undercut 76 at the distal end of the second upward locking element 69 of the joined panel to create a closure in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels.

The downward closure member 66 includes a top surface section 40 that is provided below the surface of the floor panel and below the location of the decorative layer 20. In the connected state of the first such panel connected at its second male edge 5 to the second female edge 6 of the third such panel, the second female edge of the third such panel overlaps a portion of the top surface of said section 40 of the second male edge of the first such panel such that portion 41 of the top surface of said section of the second male edge of the first such panel is hidden from view and portion 42 of the top surface of said section of the second male edge of the first such panel is visible when viewed perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels. The visible part creates an imitation of grout when the panels are connected. Preferably, at least a portion of the top surface—and preferably all of it—of said second male edge section 40 that is visible when viewed perpendicular to the surface of the joined first and third such panels is parallel to the surface of the panel.

The second male edge 5 and the second female edge 6 each include a chamfer 51. These chamfers 51 are convex chamfers that are at least partially curved. The chamfer 51 at the second male edge is preferably substantially a mirror image of the chamfer 51 at the second female edge.

A portion of the top surface male edge section 40, which is provided below the surface of the floor panel and below the location of the decorative layer, is provided with a varnish layer 31.

The male edge 3 and the female edge 4 are provided with chamfers 51. The chamfers are partially provided with a layer 31 of the same varnish. These varnish layers 31 on the bevels 51 extend from a position below the decorative layer 20, in the example from the bottom of the bevels 51, to a position above the decorative layer 20. The decorative layer is thereby hidden from view in the bevels.

Alternative configurations of locking means for locking the panels in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the panels are possible as shown in FIGS. 26 and 27. For example, it is possible to use the closure configurations of FIGS. 5.

Fig. 28 shows a cross-section of a panel according to an embodiment of the fifth aspect of the invention, in a view similar to FIG. 24. Fig. 29 shows two panels as in FIG. 28, in the connected state. The item codes have the same meaning as in FIG. 24 and 25.

The male edge 3, and more particularly the tongue 53 that creates the male connection portion 7, includes a top surface section 40 that is provided below the surface of the floor panel and below the location of the decorative layer 20. The visual appearance of the top surface of the said section is different throughout its surface from visual appearance of the decorative layer 20. In the connected state of the first such panel, at its male edge 3 on the female edge 4 of the second such panel, the female edge 4 overlaps part of the upper surface of the specified section 40 of the male edge 3 of the first such panel, so that part 41 of the upper surface of the specified section 40 of the male edge of the first such panel is hidden from view, and part 42

- 40 045830 the top surface of said section is visible when viewed perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 28 and 29, the female edge 4 of the second such panel is in contact with the upper surface of the said section 40 of the male edge 3 of the first such panel, which is provided below the surface of the floor panel and below the location of the decorative layer in the first region 43 of the upper surface of the male connecting part. The upper surface of the tongue 53 includes a second region 44 less distant than the first region 43, the female edge 4 of the second such panel overlapping the second region 44 without contacting it, but so that the second region 44 is hidden from view. This second region 44 is further away from the surface of the floor panel than the first region 43.

A portion of the top surface male edge section 40, which is provided below the surface of the floor panel and below the location of the decorative layer, is provided with a varnish layer 31. However, the first region 43 does not include this varnish layer, while the second region 44 does include this varnish layer at least partially.

The male edge 3 and the female edge 4 are provided with chamfers 51. The chamfers are partially provided with the same layer of varnish 31. These chamfer varnish layers 31 extend from a position below the decorative layer 20, in the example from the bottom of the chamfers 51 to a position above the decorative layer 20. The decorative layer is thereby hidden from view in the chamfers.

In a similar manner as in FIG. 28, varnish layers may be provided in the embodiment shown in FIG. 24, in section 40, as well as on chamfers 51.

The edge configuration as shown in Fig. 28 and 29, can also be used at the second pair of opposite edges of the panel.

Fig. 30 shows a cross section of a panel according to an embodiment of the fifth aspect of the invention. Fig. 31 and 32 show two panels as in FIG. 30, in connected state.

Panels according to Fig. 30 are configured to a large extent similar to the panels of FIG. 24. However, the connecting parts of the panel in figure 30 are uniquely designed so that, in the connected state of the panel with another such panel, at their respective edges of the first pair of opposing edges 3, 4, said mechanical locking means that prevent displacement of the closed panels in a direction perpendicular to the connecting edges and parallel to the surface of the connected panels, prevent this displacement, at the same time creating a backlash in this direction with a value of at least 0.2 mm; and preferably less than 0.5 mm.

Fig. 31 and 32 illustrate backlash by showing panels connected at two different backlash positions.

In the panel according to Fig. 30 this creates a play that is at least partially made possible by a relative position in a direction perpendicular to the first pair of opposing edges, parallel to the surface of the panels connected along their first pair of opposing edges with the female edge overlapping the top surface of said male edge section. More specifically, the overlapped section of the male edge is parallel to the surface of the panel.

The overlap of the female edge of the male edge is preferably created where the male edge is parallel to the surface of the panel.

Fig. 33 shows panels according to an embodiment of the fifth aspect of the invention in a connected state. The panel configuration is largely similar to that shown in FIG. 30 and 31. The same code position numbers are in Fig. 33 is the same value as in FIG. 30 and 31. The difference in the embodiment according to FIG. 33 is that in the embodiment shown in FIG. 33 in a similar manner as shown in the embodiment of FIG. 28 and 29, the female edge 4 of the second such panel is in contact with the upper surface of said section 40 of the male edge 3 of the first such panel, which is provided below the surface of the floor panel and below the location of the decorative layer, in the first region 43 of the upper surface of the male connecting part. The upper surface of the tongue 53 includes a second region 44 less distant than the first region 43, the female edge 4 of the second such panel overlapping the second region 44 without contacting it, but so that the second region 44 is hidden from view. The second region 44 is further away from the surface of the floor panel than the first region 43.

A portion of the top surface male edge section 40, which is provided below the surface of the floor panel and below the location of the decorative layer, is provided with a varnish layer 31. However, the first region 43 does not include this varnish layer, while the second region 44 does include this varnish layer at least partially.

In embodiments of the fifth aspect of the invention, it is preferred that the distance from the panel surface of said male joining edge section is substantially the same as the distance from the panel surface of said second male joining edge section.

In embodiments of the fifth aspect of the invention, it is preferred that the portion of the top surface of the male edge section that is visible when viewed perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels has substantially the same color as the portion of the top surface of the second male edge section that is visible when viewed perpendicularly surfaces of connected panels.

When, in embodiments of the fifth aspect of the invention, varnish layers are applied to the first pair of opposing edges and the second pair of opposing edges, the varnish layers preferably have the same composition.

Each of these versions increases the realism of the grout simulation in the assembled panels.

Fig. 34-38 illustrate the sixth aspect of the invention.

Fig. 34 illustrates a first pair of opposing edges of the panel 1 according to an embodiment of the sixth aspect of the invention. Fig. 35 shows two panels as in FIG. 34, connected along their first pair of opposing edges. Fig. 36 shows panels according to an embodiment of the sixth aspect of the invention joined at their second pair of opposing edges. In the combination of FIG. 34, 35 and 36 illustrate an embodiment according to the sixth aspect of the invention.

Panel 1 includes a backing layer 10 and a top layer 11. The top layer includes a decorative layer 20 and a wear layer 21. The panel at the first pair of opposing edges 3, 4 is provided with connecting parts 7, 8, which cooperate with each other, essentially in the form of a tongue 53 and a groove 43, for connecting two such panels along their first pair of opposing edges to each other in a floor, wall or ceiling covering. The tongue 53 is located on the male edge 3 of the first pair of opposing edges. The tongue 53 runs at the male edge in a direction parallel to the surface of the panel. The groove 54 is located on the female edge 4 of the first pair of opposing edges. The groove 54 is defined by an upper jaw 55 and a lower jaw 56. The lower jaw extends further than the upper jaw.

The lower jaw 56 includes a locking element 13. The lower part of the tongue 53 includes a locking element 14. In the connected state of two such panels, along their first pair of opposing edges 3, 4, the locking element of the lower jaw 13 contacts the locking element of the tongue 14, thereby creating a closure of the connected panels along their first pair of opposing edges 3, 4 in a direction perpendicular to the connected edges and parallel to the surface of the connected panels. Preferably, this closure is created with pretension. The locking element 13 of the lower jaw 13 is located remotely from the distal end of the upper jaw 55.

The connecting parts of the first pair of opposing edges 3, 4 are designed such that the first such panel can be connected by its male edge 3 to the second such panel by sliding W in at an angle (see figure 10 for an explanation of sliding in W at an angle).

The surface of the male edge 3 is provided with a recess 30. The recess extends deeper into the panel than the location of the decorative layer 20. In the example, the recess 30 extends in a direction parallel to the surface of the panel and perpendicular to the first pair of opposing edges 3, 4 in the closest vertical direction above the lower jaw lock member 13 56, which will contact the locking element 14 of the tongue 53 in the connected state of two such panels along their first pair of opposing edges 3, 4. In the example shown, the recess 30 includes a flat bottom, and a side wall 34 near the bottom.

The proximal end of the female edge 4 of the first pair of opposing edges 3, 4 includes a first closing plane 61; and the distal end of the male edge 3 of the first pair of opposing edges includes a second closing plane 62. In the connected state of two such panels, along their first pair of opposing edges 3, 4, the first closing plane 61 of the first such panel contacts the second closing plane 62 of the second such panel, thereby creating the most contact surface between two connected such panels, the contact surface being substantially perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels.

Panel 1 includes a second pair of opposing edges 5, 6. Panel 1 at the second pair of opposing edges 5, 6 is equipped with second male connecting parts 27 and second female connecting parts 28 for connecting two such panels along their second pair of opposing edges to each other in a floor, wall or ceiling covering. The second male connecting part 27 is located at the second male edge 5 of the second pair of opposing edges. The second female connecting part 28 is located at the second female edge 6 of the panels. The second connecting parts are provided with mechanical locking means that prevent displacement of two such panels connected along their second pair of opposing edges 5, 6 in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels, as well as in a direction perpendicular to the corresponding connected edges in a plane parallel to the connected panels. The second male edge 5 includes a downwardly directed upper hook portion 64. The downwardly directed upper hook portion includes a jaw 65 with a downwardly directed lock member 66 that forms a second male coupling portion 27. The second female edge 6 includes an upwardly directed lower hook portion 67. The upwardly directed lower the hook-shaped portion includes a jaw 68 with an upwardly directed locking element 69 which, in proximity thereto, defines a second female connecting portion in the form of a connecting recess 72. The second male connecting portion and the second female connecting portion are configured such that two such panels can be connected to each other along their respective second pair of opposing edges by sliding M substantially perpendicular to the surface of two such panels.

The connecting parts of the first pair of opposing edges 3, 4 and the second pair of opposing edges 5, 6 are designed so that a plurality of such panels can be connected in a covering using a folding installation method. The surface of the second female edge 6 is provided with a second recess 36. The second recess 36 extends deeper into the panel than the location of the decorative layer 20. The second recess 36 includes a flat bottom and a side wall 34 near the bottom.

When - as shown in the figures - the width of the second recess 36 is substantially the same as the width of the recess 30, this increases the realism of the grout simulation by the recess and the second recess.

The first pair of opposing edges 3, 4 and/or the second pair of opposing edges 5, 6 are provided with chamfers 51. In the examples shown, the chamfers do not extend below the location of the decorative layer, however, it is possible that the chamfers extend below the location of the decorative layer. It is also possible that the panel edges do not include chamfers.

The proximal end of the second female edge 6 includes a third closing plane 61. The distal end of the second male edge 5 includes a fourth closing plane 62. In the connected state of two such panels, along their second pair of opposing edges 5, 6, the third closing plane 61 of the first such panel is in contact with the fourth closing plane plane 62 of another such panel, thereby creating a contact surface between the panels thus connected. In the example, the contact surface is substantially perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels. The edges of the second pair of opposing edges 5, 6 are provided with mechanical locking means so that, in the connected state of the first such panel with the third such panel, a contact area is formed along their second pair of opposing edges between the mechanical locking means, thereby creating a closure perpendicular to the surface of the panels at the distal end of the directional downwards of the panel lock 66. Preferably, as in the embodiments of FIGS. 36 (and also 37) the contact surface extension 82 crosses the contact area between the mechanical locking means.

The locking means include an undercut 73 at the second female edge 6. The undercut interacts with a downward locking member 66—more specifically, with a locking member 81 of a downward locking member 66—of the connected panel, thereby creating a closure perpendicular to the surface of the panels at the distal end of the downward locking member 66 panels.

The proximal end of the downwardly directed closure member 66 includes a first inclined contact surface 74. The proximal end of the upwardly directed closure element 69 includes a second inclined contact surface 75. In the connected state of two such panels, along their second pair of opposing edges 5, 6, the first inclined contact surface 74 contacts a second inclined contact surface 75 of another panel; thereby creating a closure of the connected panels in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels. Preferably, this closure is created with pretension.

The second pair of opposing edges 5, 6 of the embodiment shown in Figure 36 is designed such that, in the connected state of two such panels, a short circuit is not created at their second pair of opposing edges in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels at the distal end of the upwardly directed locking element 69.

The cross-section of the recess perpendicular to the panel edge 3 where the recess 30 is located is substantially the same as the cross-section of the second recess 36 perpendicular to the panel edge 6 where the second recess 36 is located.

The edge of the panel where the recess is created preferably connects the edge of the panel where the second recess is located in the joint; wherein in the connection the recess continues without interruption into the second recess.

Fig. 37 shows panels according to yet another embodiment of the sixth aspect of the invention joined at their second pair of opposing edges. The same reference numerals have the same meaning as in FIG. 36 and 37. The embodiment according to FIG. 37 differs to some extent in that the closure is created in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the panels.

A short circuit in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the panels connected at their second pair of opposing edges 5, 6 is not created at either the proximal end of the upward closure element 69 or the proximal end of the downward closure element 66.

Similarly, as in the embodiment shown in FIG. 36, the closure means include an undercut 73 at the second female edge 6. The undercut interacts with the downward closure element 66—more specifically, with the closure element 81 of the downward closure element 66—of the connected panel, thereby creating a closure perpendicular to the surface of the panels at the distal downward end locking element 66 of the panel. The proximal end of the downward closure member 66 includes a first angled contact surface 74. The proximal end of the upward closure member 69 includes a second angled contact surface 74.

- 43 045830 surface 75. In the connected state of two such panels, along their second pair of opposing edges 5, 6, the first inclined contact surface 74 is in contact with the second inclined contact surface 75 of the other panel; thereby creating a closure of the connected panels in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels. Preferably, this closure is created with pretension.

The second pair of opposing edges 5, 6 is configured such that, in the connected state of two such panels, along their second pair of opposing edges, a short circuit in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels is created at the distal end of the upwardly directed locking element 69. This short circuit - according to specific embodiments - can be created with or without contact. The distal end of the upward closure member 69 includes an undercut 76. The bottom surface of the undercut 76 is designed to create a closure in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels. The proximal end of the second male edge 5 includes a corresponding hook 78 designed to engage with the upwardly directed locking element 69 of the connected panel to establish a closure in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels.

Fig. 38 shows panels according to yet another embodiment of the sixth aspect joined at their second pair of opposing edges. The same reference numerals have the same meaning as in FIG. 36 and 37.

The difference between the embodiment of the second pair of opposing edges 5, 6 shown in FIG. 38, and the embodiments shown in FIG. 36 and 37, is that the closure occurs in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels at the second pair of opposite edges 5, 6 between the far end of the male edge 5 and the proximal end of the female edge 6.

The proximal end of the downwardly directed closure member 66 includes a first inclined contact surface 74. The proximal end of the upwardly directed closure element 69 includes a second inclined contact surface 75. In the connected state of two such panels, along their second pair of opposing edges 5, 6, the first inclined contact surface 74 contacts a second inclined contact surface 75 of another panel; thereby creating a closure of the connected panels in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels. Preferably, this closure is created with pretension.

The second pair of opposing edges 5, 6 is configured such that, in the connected state of two such panels, at their second pair of opposing edges, a short circuit in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels is created at the distal end of the upwardly directed locking element 69. This short circuit - according to specific embodiments - can be created with or without contact. The distal end of the upward closure member 69 includes an undercut 76. The bottom surface of the undercut 76 is designed to create a closure in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels. The proximal end of the second male edge 5 includes a corresponding hook 78 designed to interact with the upwardly directed locking element 69 of the connected panel to create a closure in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels.

The recess 30 and the second recess 36 may be provided with a varnish layer 31, as shown in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 35 and 36. Layers of varnish are visible when the panels are connected. Layers of varnish create an imitation of grout. The side walls (or side edges) 34 of the recess 30 and the second recess 36 are provided with a layer 31 of varnish. The edges of the panel opposite the edge containing the recess 30 or the second recess 36 are on top of the varnished section - the section covers the location of the decorative layer at these edges so that the decorative layer is at the varnished edge and is no longer visible at these edges These layers of varnish help create an imitation grout of the joined panels.

It is possible to at least partially fill the recess 30 and the second recess 36 with polymer filler material 71, as illustrated in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 37 and 38. The polymer filler material helps create a very realistic imitation of grout in the mounted panels. The polymer filler materials extend vertically from a position below the location of the decorative layer 20 to a position vertically above the location of the decorative layer in the panel. The polymer core materials 71 provide a portion of the panel edge on which the polymer core material resides.

Fig. 39-43 show examples of panels according to the seventh aspect, eighth aspect and ninth aspect of the invention. These aspects are illustrated in these examples in combination, however such combination is not essential to the invention. Each of these aspects may be implemented individually, or in a combination of two of these aspects, or in a combination of all three of these aspects. Consistent combinations with other aspects of the invention are also possible.

Fig. 39 shows an example of a panel according to a seventh aspect, an eighth aspect and a ninth aspect of the invention. Fig. 40 shows two panels as shown in FIG. 39, connected

- 44 045830 at their first pair of opposite edges.

Panel 1 in Fig. 39 includes a substrate 10 and a top layer 11. The thickness of the T panel in the example shown is 5 mm. The top layer 11 includes a decorative layer 20 and a wear layer 21. The panel at the first pair of opposing edges 3, 4 is provided with connecting parts 7, 8, which cooperate with each other, essentially in the form of male connecting parts 7 and female connecting parts 8, for connecting two such panels to each other in a floor, wall or ceiling covering . The male connecting part 7 is located on the male edge 3 of the first pair of opposing edges. The connecting parts are provided with mechanical locking means 13, 14, which prevent displacement of the two connected panels in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels, as well as in a direction perpendicular to the corresponding connecting edges in a plane parallel to the connected panels. The female connecting portion 8 is located on the female edge 4 of the first pair of opposing edges 3, 4. The male connecting portion 7 includes a tongue 53. The female connecting portion 8 includes a groove 54 defined by an upper jaw 55 and a lower jaw 56, the lower jaw 56 extending further than an upper jaw 55. A lower jaw 56 includes a locking member 13. A lower portion of the tongue 53 includes a locking member 14. As shown in FIG. 40, in the connected state of two such panels at their first pair of opposing edges, the lower jaw locking element 13 contacts the tongue locking element 14, thereby creating a locking of the connected panels along their first pair of opposing edges in a direction perpendicular to the connected edges and parallel to the surface of the connected panels. This closure is preferably created with pre-tension, which can be achieved by means of the overlapping contours of the respective panels' edge sections. In the connected state of the male edge with the female edge of another such panel, the top surface of the tongue 53 contacts the bottom of the top jaw 55. In the example shown, this contact is substantially parallel to the surface of the panel. In an alternative embodiment, this contact may make an angle of less than 5° with the surface of the panel.

Panel 1 can be connected to another such panel along their first pair of opposing edges 3, 4, with its male edge 3 to the female edge 4 of another such panel, by sliding a tongue 53 of the panel at an angle into the groove 54 of another such panel.

The surface of the male edge 3 is provided with a recess 91. In the example shown, this recess 91 includes at least a section 92 parallel to the surface of the panel.

The substrate 10 includes a first layer 101 and a second layer 102 located closer to the surface of the panel than the first layer 101. The composition of the first layer is different from the composition of the second layer. The second layer is made of a softer material than the first layer. A tongue 53 is provided in the first layer 101. A recess 91 extends into the second layer 102. The proximal boundary 103 of the recess extends substantially perpendicularly through the decorative layer 20. In the example shown, the depth D1 relative to the panel surface is 0.65 mm.

The top jaw 55 includes a distal portion 93 extending from the edge of the panel. In the example shown, this distal portion 93, extending from the edge of the panel, is designed as a spout. The lower surface of the distal portion 93 is located in the substrate. In the connected state of the female edge with the male edge of another such panel, the distal portion 93 of the upper jaw 55 of the female edge at least partially overlaps the recess 91 at the surface of the male edge. This overlap is preferably created with contact between the bottom of the distal portion 93 and the recess 91. In embodiments of the invention, this contact may be pre-tensioned, for example by creating overlapping contours of the respective panel edge sections. The overlap between the distal portion and the recess at the surface of the male edge is created in the vertical direction at a distance D2 of 0.95 mm between the upper surface of the tongue and the lower surface of the upper jaw.

The distal portion 93 includes a chamfer 95. The male edge 3 includes a chamfer 96 adjacent to the recess 91.

The recess 91 is provided with a layer 97 of varnish. The chamfer 95 of the distal portion 93 is partially provided with a varnish layer 97 so that in the connected state of two such panels, along their first pair of opposing edges 3, 4, the varnish layer of the recess visually continues into the varnish layer of the chamfer 95 of the distal portion. The varnish layer 97 on the recess 91 partially extends onto a chamfer 96 located on the male edge 3. In the example shown, the recess 91 has a width W1 of 2.3 mm. The recess in the connected panels has a visible width W2 of 2 mm.

In the example shown, the distal edge 98 of the distal portion 93 extends in the horizontal direction at a distance D of 0.86 mm from the female edge.

In the connected state of the female edge 4 with the male edge 3 of another such panel, a gap 99 is formed which extends horizontally between the male edge and the female edge, and vertically between the distal portion and the upper surface of the tongue, and a gap 100 is formed in the horizontal direction between the distal end of the tongue and the near end of the female edge.

- 45 045830

The distal distal boundary 104 extends substantially perpendicularly through the decorative layer 20.

The lower jaw 56 includes on its upper side a protrusion 110, the highest point 111 of which is close to the closure element 13 and distant from the distal point of the upper jaw 55. The lower jaw 56 includes on its upper surface a concave section 112. This concave section 112 is concave from a closer place than the farthest point of the upper lip, to a more distant point, to the farthest point of the upper lip. This concave section is formed near the highest point 111 of the protrusion. The concave section 112 is long enough and configured so that the distal end of the tongue 53 can be pushed into the concave section and subsequently removed from it when the male edge of the panel is tied by sliding at an angle.

The concave section 112 includes a far side wall 113 having an angle A with the bottom of the panel, along at least 50% of the far wall at an angle of at least 10°, and preferably less than 25°. The far side 113 extends from the proximal to the distal end of the upper jaw 55. In the example shown, the angle A is 15°.

The locking element 13 of the lower jaw 56 includes a first contact surface 120 located on the proximal side of the locking element 13. This first contact surface 120 has a profile angle A1 equal to 35° with the bottom of the panel. The lower jaw 56 also includes an inclined surface inclined relative to the bottom of the panel upward in the proximal direction of the panel. This inclined surface includes a second contact surface 121 having a profile angle A2 equal to 35° with the bottom of the panel. The bottom portion of the tongue 53 includes a third contact surface 122 that has an angle A3 of 35° with the bottom portion of the panel. The bottom portion of the tongue 53 includes a fourth contact surface 123 that has an angle A4 of 35° with the bottom portion of the panel. The third contact surface 122 and the fourth contact surface 123 are on opposite sides of the locking element 14, which projects downward from the tongue 53. Other preferred angles A1, A2, A3 and A4, for example, are 25° and 30°.

In the connected state of two such panels - which is shown in Fig. 40, a first contact surface 120 is in contact with a third contact surface 122 of another panel. The second contact surface 121 contacts the fourth contact surface 123 of the other panel.

Gaps 99, 100 are formed in the horizontal direction of the distal end of the male edge 3 and the edge of the female edge 4 of the other panel to accommodate the expansion of the male edge towards the female edge of the other panel in the connected state of the panels. A gap 125 is formed in the horizontal direction between the distal end of the female edge 4 of the panel and the edge of the male edge 3 of the other panel to allow the expansion of the female edge toward the male edge of the other panel in the connected state of the panels.

Fig. 41 shows another example of panels according to the seventh aspect, the eighth aspect and the ninth aspect of the invention, in a connected state along their first pair of opposing edges. The reference numerals have the same meaning as in FIG. 39 and 40. In the recess 91 layers of varnish are not provided.

Fig. 42 and 43 show two other examples of panels according to the seventh aspect, the eighth aspect and the ninth aspect of the invention. The reference numerals have the same meaning as in FIG. 39-41. In the example shown in FIG. 42, the chamfers 95, 96 on both edges of the panels are rounded chamfers that are convex. In the example shown in FIG. 43, the chamfers 95, 96 are rounded chamfers that are concave. Fig. 42 and 43 show examples in which varnish layers 97 have been applied, but these varnish layers 97 are not essential to the invention.

Fig. 44 shows a first pair of opposing panel edges in accordance with at least a seventh aspect of the invention. Fig. 45 shows two panels according to figure 44 connected to each other along their first pair of opposing edges.

Panel 1 in Fig. 44 includes a substrate 10 and a top layer 11. The thickness of the T panel according to the example shown is 5 mm. The top layer 11 includes a decorative layer 20 and a wear layer 21. The panel at the first pair of opposing edges 3, 4 is provided with connecting parts 7, 8 which cooperate with each other, essentially in the form of male connecting parts 7 and female connecting parts 8, for connecting two such panels along their first pair of opposing edges 3, 4 each other in floor, wall or ceiling coverings. The male connecting part 7 is located on the male edge 3 of the first pair of opposing edges. The connecting parts are provided with mechanical locking means 13, 14, which prevent displacement of the two connected panels in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels, as well as in a direction perpendicular to the corresponding connected edges in a plane parallel to the connected panels. The female connecting part 8 is located on the female edge 4 of the first pair of opposing edges 3, 4. The male connecting part 7 includes a tongue 53. The female connecting part 8 includes a groove 54 defined by an upper jaw 55 and a lower jaw 56; wherein the lower jaw 56 extends more than the upper jaw 55. The lower jaw 56

- 46 045830 includes a locking element 13. The lower part of the tongue 53 includes a locking element 14. As shown in FIG. 45, in the connected state of two such panels at their first pair of opposing edges, the lower jaw locking element 13 contacts the tongue locking element 14, thereby creating a locking of the connected panels along their first pair of opposing edges in a direction perpendicular to the connected edges and parallel to the surface of the connected panels. This closure is preferably created with pre-tension, which can be achieved by means of the overlapping contours of the corresponding sections of the edges of the panels. In the connected state of the male edge with the female edge of another such panel, the top surface of the tongue 53 contacts the bottom of the top jaw 55. In the example shown, this contact is substantially parallel to the surface of the panel. In an alternative embodiment, this contact may make an angle of less than 5° with the surface of the panel.

Panel 1 can be connected to another such panel along their first pair of opposing edges 3, 4, with a male edge 3 on a female edge 4 of another such panel, by sliding a tongue 53 of the panel at an angle into a groove 54 of another such panel.

The surface of the male edge 3 is provided with a recess 91. In the example shown, this recess 91 includes at least a section 92 parallel to the surface of the panel.

The substrate 10 includes a first layer 101 and a second layer 102 located closer to the surface of the panel than the first layer 101. The composition of the first layer is different from the composition of the second layer. In preferred embodiments, the second layer is formed from a softer material than the first layer. A tongue 53 is provided in the first layer 101. A recess 91 extends into the second layer 102 but not into the first layer 101. The proximal boundary 103 of the recess extends substantially perpendicularly through the decorative layer 20. In the example shown, the depth D1 relative to the panel surface is 0.65 mm.

The top jaw 55 includes a distal portion 93 extending from the edge of the panel. In the example shown, this distal portion 93, extending from the edge of the panel, is designed as a spout. The lower surface of the distal portion 93 is located in the substrate. In the connected state of the female edge with the male edge of another such panel, the distal portion 93 of the upper jaw 55 of the female edge at least partially overlaps the recess 91 at the surface of the male edge. This overlap is created with contact between the bottom of the distal portion 93 and the recess 91. In embodiments of the invention, this contact can be achieved with pre-tension, for example, creating overlapping contours of the corresponding sections of the edges of the panels. The overlap between the distal portion and the recess on the surface of the male edge is created at a vertical distance D2 of 0.95 mm from the contact 94 between the upper surface of the tongue and the lower surface of the upper jaw.

The distal portion 93 includes a chamfer 95. The male edge 3 includes a chamfer 96 adjacent to the recess 91.

In the example shown, the recess 91 has a width W1 of 2.3 mm. The recess in the connected state of the panels has a visible width W2 equal to 2 mm.

In the example shown, the distal edge 98 of the distal portion 93 extends in the horizontal direction at a distance D of 0.86 mm from the female edge.

In the connected state of the female edge 4 with the male edge 3 of another panel, a gap 100 is formed in the horizontal direction between the distal end of the tongue and the proximal end of the female edge.

The recess 91 extends into the substrate 10.

The distal border 104 of the distal portion extends substantially perpendicularly through the decorative layer 20. In the example shown, the distal border 104 of the distal portion 93 extends substantially perpendicularly through the panel at a distance less than the thickness of the decorative layer plus 0.15 mm.

The proximal border 103 of the recess 91 extends substantially perpendicularly through the decorative layer. The proximal border 103 of the recess 91 extends substantially perpendicularly through the panel at a distance less than the thickness of the decorative layer plus 0.15 mm; and preferably at a distance of less than 0.25 mm.

In the connected state, a gap 125 is formed in the horizontal direction between the distal end of the female edge 4 of the panel and the edge of the male edge 3 of the other panel, allowing the expansion of the female edge towards the male edge of the other panel in the connected state of the panels.

As shown in FIG. 45, in the connected state of the female edge 4 with the male edge 3 of another such panel, the distal end of the upper jaw 55 below the distal portion 93 is in contact with the male edge 3 of another such panel along the entire height of the distal end of the upper jaw below this distal portion. This contact of the distal end of the upper jaw below the distal portion is created at a section of this distal end of the upper jaw substantially perpendicular to the surface of the panel.

Fig. 45 illustrates an optional feature according to which, in the connected state of two panels with the first pair of opposing edges 3, 4, the minimum distance D4 at the female edge 4 near the far boundary 104 of the far section 93 is perpendicular to the surface of the panel

- 47 045830 between the lower jaw 56 and the tongue 53 is at least 0.1 mm. In the example shown, the distance D4 is 0.18 mm.

Fig. 46 shows a first pair of opposing panel edges in accordance with at least a seventh aspect of the invention. Fig. 47 shows two panels according to figure 46 connected to each other along their first pair of opposing edges.

Panel in Fig. 46 and 47 are substantially similar to the panel shown in FIG. 46 and 47. Reference numbers in FIG. 46 and 47 have the same meaning as the same reference numerals in FIG. 44 and 45.

Panel in Fig. 46 and 47 includes a jaw 130 protruding from the male edge. The sponge 130 is provided in the second substrate layer 102. This second layer 102 is softer than the first substrate layer 101.

In the connected state of two such panels, at their first pair of opposing edges, contact is created between the distal end of the upper jaw 55 below the distal portion 93 of one panel, on the one hand, and, on the other hand, the jaw 130 protruding from the male edge 3 of the other panel. The male edge 3 and the female edge 4 are designed such that when two such panels are joined at the first pair of opposing edges, the protruding jaw 130 overlaps the female edge in a direction parallel to the surface of the panel, and perpendicular to the joined edges by an amount of at least 0.05 mm - and preferably by at least 0.10 mm. Thus, in the connected state, the protruding jaw 130 contacts the female edge of the other panel with pretension. Because the lip is made of the soft material of the second backing layer 102, the lip will bulge or flex somewhat during bonding, providing reliable contact between both edges of the panel.

Fig. 47 illustrates an optional feature whereby in the connected state of two panels along their first pair of opposing edges 3, 4, the minimum distance D4 at the female edge 4 near the distal boundary 104 of the distal portion 93 perpendicular to the surface of the panel between the lower lip 56 and the tongue 53 is at least 0.1 mm. In the example shown, the distance D4 is 0.18 mm.

Fig. 48 shows an embodiment of panels according to at least a seventh aspect of the invention. The panels shown in FIGS. 48, joined at their first pair of opposing edges 3, 4, are substantially similar to the panels shown in FIG. 44 and 45. Reference numbers in FIG. 48 have the same meaning as the corresponding code positions in FIG. 44 and 45. The panel in Fig. 48 is different from the panel shown in FIG. 44 and 45 in that instead of contact between the bottom of the distal portion and the recess in the connected state of the panels, the overlap of the distal portion 93 with the recess 91 is formed with a gap D3 between the bottom of the distal portion 93 and the bottom of the recess 91. The gap D3 is preferably at least 0 .1 mm, and preferably less than 0.3 mm, and more preferably maximum 0.2 mm.

Fig. 49 shows a panel according to the tenth aspect of the invention. Fig. 50 shows two panels as in FIG. 49, in a connected state along their second pair of opposing edges 5, 6. The panel includes a backing layer 10 and a top layer 11. The top layer includes a decorative layer 20 and a wear layer 21. The panel includes a second pair of opposing edges 5, 6. The panel at the second pair of opposing edges is provided with second connecting portions 27, 28 that cooperate with each other, substantially in the form of male connecting portions 27 and female connecting portions 28, for connecting two such panels between itself in floor, wall or ceiling coverings. The second male connecting part 27 is located on the second male edge 5 of the second pair of opposing edges. A second female connecting part 28 is located on the second female edge of the panels 6. The second connecting parts are provided with mechanical locking means that prevent two such connected panels connected along their second pair of opposing edges 5, 6 from moving in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels, as well as in direction perpendicular to the corresponding connecting edges in a plane parallel to the connected panels. The second male edge 5 includes a downwardly directed upper hook portion 64. The downwardly directed upper hook portion 64 includes a jaw 65 with a downwardly directed lock member 66 that forms a second male coupling portion 27. The second female edge 6 includes an upwardly directed lower hook portion 67. the upper hook-shaped portion 67 includes a jaw 68 with a second upwardly directed locking member 69 which, in proximity thereto, defines a second female connecting portion 28 in the form of a second connecting recess 72. The second male connecting portion and the second female connecting portion are configured such that two such panels can be connected to each other along their respective second pair of opposing edges by movement substantially perpendicular to the surface of two such panels to be joined.

The second male connecting part 27, the second female part 28 and their locking means in the embodiment according to FIG. 49 and 50 are constructed in the same manner as the panel shown in FIG. 37. Code numbers of positions in Fig. 49 and 50, corresponding to reference numerals,

- 48 045830 shown in Fig. 37 have the same meaning.

The surface of the second female edge 6 is provided with a recess 91. In the example shown, the recess 91 includes a section 92 parallel to the surface of the panel. The downwardly directed upper hook portion 64 includes a distal portion 93 extending from the second male edge 5. The lower surface of the distal portion is formed in the substrate 10. A recess 91 at the surface of the second female edge 6 extends into the substrate 10. In the example shown, the substrate 10 includes a first layer 101 and second layer 102. The second layer 102 is closer to the surface of the panel than the first layer 101. The composition of the first layer is different from the composition of the second layer. In the example shown, the second layer is made of a softer material than the first layer. In the example shown, the first layer 101 and the second layer 102 include polyvinyl chloride and fillers. In the example shown, the recess 91 at the surface of the second female edge 6 extends into the second layer 102, but not into the first layer 101.

In the connected state of the second female edge 6 with the second male edge 5 of another such panel, the distal portion 93 extending from the second male edge 5 overlaps the recess 91 at the surface of the second female edge 6. This overlap is formed with a gap D3 between the bottom of the distal portion and the lower part of the recess 91. The gap D3 between the lower part of the distal portion and the lower part of the recess 91 is preferably at least 0.1 mm, and preferably less than 0.3 mm, and more preferably at most 0.2 mm.

In the example shown in FIG. 49 and 50, a distal portion 93 extending from the second male edge 5 includes a chamfer 95. The second female edge 6 includes a chamfer 96 adjacent to the recess 91.

In the example shown, the recess 91 at the surface of the second female edge 6 has a width W1 of at least 2 mm - and preferably at least 2.3 mm -; and the recess 91 at the surface of the second female edge 6 has, in the connected panels, a visible width W2 of at least 1.5 mm, more preferably at least 2 mm.

The distal edge 98 of the distal portion 93 extending from the second male edge 5 extends in the horizontal direction a distance D of at least 0.25 mm, and preferably at least 0.7 mm from the second male edge.

The proximal border 103 of the recess 91 at the surface of the second female edge 6 extends substantially perpendicularly through the decorative layer 20. The proximal border 103 of the recess 91 at the surface of the second female edge 6 extends substantially perpendicularly through the panel at a distance less than the thickness of the decorative layer plus 0.15 mm ; and preferably at a distance of less than 0.25 mm.

The bottom surface of the distal portion 93 extending from the second male edge 5 is formed in the substrate 10. The distal border 104 of the distal portion 93 extending from the second male edge 5 extends substantially perpendicularly through the decorative layer 20. The distal border 104 of the distal portion 93 extending from the second the male edge 5 extends substantially perpendicularly through the panel at a distance less than the thickness of the decorative layer plus 0.15 mm; and preferably at a distance of less than 0.25 mm.

The depth D1 of the recess 91 at the surface of the second female edge 6 relative to the surface of the panel is preferably at least 0.4 mm, more preferably at least 0.5 mm. The depth D1 of the recess 91 at the surface of the second female edge 6 relative to the surface of the panel is preferably less than 2 mm, more preferably less than 1.5 mm.

Fig. 51 and 52 show embodiments of the tenth aspect of the invention in the same form as FIGS. 50. The panels shown in FIG. 51 and 52 are different from the embodiment shown in FIG. 49 and 50, the configuration of the second male coupling portion 27 and the second female coupling portion 28, and their locking means.

The configuration of the second male connecting part 27 and the second female connecting part 28, and their locking means according to the embodiment in FIG. 51 is similar to the configuration shown in FIG. 36. The corresponding item code numbers have the same meaning.

The configuration of the second male connecting part 27 and the second female connecting part 28, and their locking means according to the embodiment in FIG. 52 is similar to the configuration shown in FIG. 38. The corresponding item code numbers have the same meaning.

Fig. 53 shows an embodiment of the tenth aspect of the invention in the same form as in FIG. 50. Panel in FIG. 53 is substantially similar to the panel shown in FIG. 50. However, instead of the overlap indicated as in FIG. 50, with a gap between the bottom of the distal portion and the bottom of the recess, in FIG. 53, an overlap is provided with contact between the lower part of the distal portion and the recess. Code numbers of positions in Fig. 53 have the same meaning as in FIG. 50.

Panels configured along the first pair of opposing edges 3, 4 as shown in FIG. 3948 may be advantageously configured along their second pair of opposing edges 5, 6, as illustrated in FIG. 49-53, which allow the panels to be mounted in the folding manner illustrated in FIGS. 10.

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Claims (22)

CLAIM 1. A panel (1) containing a backing layer (10) and a top layer (11), wherein the top layer includes a decorative layer (20) and a wear layer (21), wherein the panel at the first pair of opposing edges (3, 4) is provided with connecting parts (7, 8), which interact with each other, essentially in the form of male connecting parts (7) and female connecting parts (8), to connect two such panels along their first pair of opposing edges (3, 4) to each other in a floor , wall or ceiling covering; wherein the male connecting part (7) is provided on the male edge (3) of the first pair of opposing edges; wherein the female connecting part (8) is provided on the female edge (4) of the first pair of opposing edges; wherein the connecting parts are provided with mechanical locking means (13, 14) that prevent displacement of the two connected panels in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels, as well as in a direction perpendicular to the corresponding connected edges in a plane parallel to the connected panels; wherein the male edge (3), preferably the male connecting part (7), comprises a top surface section (40) that is provided below the surface of the floor panel and below the location of the decorative layer; wherein preferably said top surface of said section has a substantially uniform color; wherein preferably, the visual appearance of said top surface of said section over its entire surface differs from the visual appearance of the decorative layer, while in the connected state of the first such panel connected along its male edge (3) to the female edge (4) of the second such panel, the female the edge overlaps a portion of the top surface of said male edge section of the first such panel, such that portion (41) of the top surface of said male edge section of the first such panel is hidden from view, and portion (42) of the top surface of said section is visible when viewed perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels, wherein preferably the portion of the top surface of said section which is visible when viewed perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels has a width of at least 1.5 mm, more preferably a width of at least 2 mm, more preferably a width of at least 3 mm , more preferably a width of at least 3.5 mm and preferably a width of less than 5 mm. 2. The panel of claim 1, wherein at least a portion, and preferably all, of the top surface of said section, which is visible when viewed perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels, is parallel to the surface of the floor panel. 3. The panel according to any one of the preceding claims 1, 2, in which the female edge (4) of the second such panel is in contact with the upper surface of the specified section (40) of the male edge (3) of the first such panel, which is provided below the surface of the floor panel and below the location a decorative layer in the first region (43) of the upper surface of the male connecting part; and wherein the upper surface of the male edge, preferably the male connecting part, includes a second region (44) less distant than the first region, the female edge (4) of the second such panel overlapping the second region (44) without contacting it, but such that the second area (44) is hidden from view. 4. The panel according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 3, wherein at least one recess (30) is provided on the surface of the panel parallel to the first pair of opposing edges (3, 4), and at least one recess is limited by both sides parallel to the first pair of opposing edges by the surface of the panel, the bottom of the recess having substantially the same color as the portion of the top surface of said male edge section that is visible when viewed perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels. 5. The panel according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 4, in which at least part of the male edge section (40), the upper surface of which is provided below the surface of the floor panel and below the location of the decorative layer, is provided with a layer (31) of varnish; and preferably, the male edge (3) and the female edge (4) are provided with chamfers (51), the chamfers being at least partially provided with the same layer of varnish (31), more preferably said layer of varnish on the chamfers extends from a position below the decorative layer (20), more preferably from the bottom of the chamfers, to a position above the decorative layer (20). 6. The panel according to claim 5, wherein the varnish layer contains sand and/or particles, preferably having a particle size greater than 20 microns, and optionally at least part of said sand and/or - 50 045830 particles are present at the surface of the varnish layer; thereby preferably creating a rough surface of the recess; and/or wherein the varnish is an acrylate varnish, a polyurethane varnish or a polyurethane-acrylate varnish, preferably a UV-curable varnish. 7. The panel according to any of the preceding claims 1-6, in which the connecting parts at the first pair of opposing edges (3, 4) are designed so that in the connected state the panels with another such panel at their respective edges of the first pair of opposing edges (3 4) said mechanical locking means are provided to prevent the joined panels from moving in a direction perpendicular to the joined edges and prevent movement parallel to the surface of the joined panels, while allowing play in that direction of at least 0.2 mm; and preferably at least less than 0.5 mm. 8. The panel according to claim 7, wherein said provision of said backlash is at least in part made possible by elastic deformation of at least one of the connecting parts, preferably the female connecting part; or wherein said play does not require elastic deformation of at least one of the connecting parts; and/or wherein said provision of play is, at least in part, made possible by relative positioning in a direction perpendicular to the first pair of opposing edges parallel to the surface of the panels connected at their first pair of opposing edges, with the female edge overlapping on the top surface of said male edge section; wherein the overlapped section of the male edge is preferably parallel to the surface of the panel. 9. Panel according to any one of the preceding claims 3-8, wherein the panel includes a second pair of opposing edges (5, 6); wherein the panel at the second pair of opposing edges is provided with second connecting parts (27, 28), which cooperate with each other, essentially in the form of second male connecting parts (27) and second female connecting parts (28), for connecting two such panels along their a second pair of opposing edges to each other in a floor, wall or ceiling covering; wherein the second male connecting part (27) is provided on the second male edge (5) of the second pair of opposing edges; wherein the second female connecting part (28) is provided on the second female edge (6) of the panels; wherein the second connecting parts are provided with second mechanical locking means that prevent displacement of two such panels connected at their second pair of opposing edges in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels, as well as in a direction perpendicular to the corresponding connected edges in a plane parallel to the connected panels; wherein the second male edge, preferably the second male connecting portion, comprises a section (40) the top surface of which is provided below the surface of the floor panel and below the location of the decorative layer, wherein preferably said top surface of said section of said second male edge has a substantially uniform color; wherein preferably the visual appearance of said top surface of said section (40) of said second male edge is different across its entire surface from the visual appearance of the decorative layer, wherein in the connected state of the first such panel connected at its second male edge on the second female edge of the third such panel , the second female edge of the third such panel overlaps a portion of the top surface of said section (40) of the second male edge of the first such panel, such that portion (41) of the top surface of said section of the second male edge of the first such panel is hidden from view and portion (42) of the top surface said section of the second male edge of the first such panel is visible when viewed perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels, preferably the portion of the top surface of said section of the second male edge that is visible when viewed perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels has a width of at least 1.5 mm, more preferably a width of at least 2 mm, more preferably a width of at least 3 mm, more preferably a width of at least 3.5 mm and preferably a width of less than 5 mm. 10. The panel according to claim 9, in which the connecting parts at the second pair of opposing edges are designed so that, in the connected state of the panel with another such panel, said mechanical locking means are provided at their respective edges of the second pair of opposing edges, which prevent displacement of the connected panels in a direction perpendicular to the second pair of opposing edges and prevent said displacement parallel to the surface of the connected panels, while allowing play in this direction of at least 0.2 mm; and preferably at least less than 0.5 mm. - 51 045830 11. The panel of claim 10, wherein said provision of said play in a direction perpendicular to the second pair of opposing edges and parallel to the surface of the joined panels is at least partially made possible by elastic deformation of at least one of the second connecting parts, preferably the second female connecting part; or wherein said play does not require elastic deformation of at least one of the connecting parts; and/or wherein said provision of play in a direction perpendicular to the second pair of opposing edges and parallel to the surface of the connected panels is at least in part made possible by relative positioning in a direction perpendicular to the first pair of opposing edges parallel to the surface of the panels connected at their second pair of opposing edges, with overlap a second female edge of the upper surface of said second male edge section. 12. The panel according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 11, wherein, instead of a male edge, the female edge, preferably the female connecting part, comprises a top surface section (40) which is provided below the surface of the floor panel and below the location of the decorative layer, preferably the top surface of said section has a substantially uniform color; wherein in the connected state of the first such panel connected along its male edge to the female edge of the second such panel, instead of overlapping the female edge, it is a male edge that overlaps a portion of the top surface of said section of the female edge of the first such panel, so that part (41) the upper surface of said section of the female edge of the first such panel is hidden from view, and a portion (42) of the upper surface of said section is visible when viewed perpendicular to the surface of the joined panels. 13. Panel (1) containing a substrate (10) and a top layer (11), wherein the top layer includes a decorative layer (20) and a wear layer (21), while the panel at the first pair of opposite edges (3, 4) is equipped with connecting parts (7, 8) that interact with each other, essentially in the form of male connecting parts (7) and female connecting parts (8), to connect two such panels along their first pair of opposing edges (3, 4) to each other in floor, wall or ceiling covering; wherein the male connecting part (7) is provided on the male edge (3) of the first pair of opposing edges; wherein the female connecting part (8) is provided on the female edge (4) of the first pair of opposing edges; wherein the connecting parts are provided with mechanical locking means (13, 14) that prevent displacement of the two connected panels in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels, as well as in a direction perpendicular to the corresponding connected edges in a plane parallel to the connected panels; wherein the surface of at least one of the first edge (3) or the second edge (4) is provided with a recess (30), the recess (30) preferably extending deeper into the panel than the location of the decorative layer (20); wherein the recess is provided with a layer (31) of varnish, optionally containing sand and/or particles, preferably having a particle size of more than 20 μm; wherein the recess varnish layer is at least partially visible in the connected state of the panel with another such panel at their respective first pair of opposing edges; wherein the thickness of the varnish layer is preferably less than 200 μm, more preferably less than 100 μm, even more preferably less than 60 μm, and preferably at least part of the side edge (34) of the recess is provided with said varnish layer (31), with the edge of the first pair preferably opposing edges (3, 4), opposite to the edge containing the recess (30), is located at least above the section provided with a layer of varnish, and preferably the layer of varnish on this edge helps to create an imitation of grouting of the connected panels. 14. The panel according to claim 13, wherein the surface of the varnish layer (31) comprises a section that is parallel to the surface of the panel. 15. Panel according to any one of the preceding claims 13-14, in which the recess (30) extends into the substrate (10). 16. Panel (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 13-15, in which the female edge (4) contains a first closing plane (61), and the male edge (3) contains a second closing plane (62), and in the connected state of the two of such panels, at their first pair of opposite edges, the first closing plane of the first such panel is in contact with the second closing plane - 52 045830 by the rolling plane of a second such panel, thereby creating a contact surface between two such connected panels, the contact surface being substantially perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels. 17. The panel according to any one of the preceding claims 13-16, in which the varnish layer contains sand and/or particles, preferably having a particle size of more than 20 microns, and at least part of the specified sand and/or particles is present at the surface of the varnish layer; thereby preferably creating a rough surface of the recess, and/or wherein the varnish is an acrylate varnish, or a polyurethane varnish, or a polyurethane-acrylate varnish, preferably a UV-curable varnish. 18. The panel according to any of the preceding claims 13-17, in which the recess, equipped with a layer of varnish, is configured to create an imitation of grout in a coating containing a plurality of such panels, and/or in the connected state of two such panels along their first pair of opposing edges, the visible width of the recess varnish layer is at least 1.5 mm, preferably at least 2 mm, more preferably at least 3 mm, more preferably at least 3.5 mm and preferably less 5 mm. 19. Panel (1) according to any of the preceding claims 13-18, wherein the panel includes a second pair of opposing edges (5, 6); wherein the panel at the second pair of opposing edges is provided with connecting parts (27, 28), which interact with each other, essentially in the form of second male connecting parts (27) and female connecting parts (28), for connecting two such panels along their second a pair of opposing edges to each other in a floor, wall or ceiling covering; wherein the second male connecting part is provided on the second male edge (5) of the second pair of opposing edges; wherein a second female connecting part is provided on the second female edge (6) of the panels; wherein the second connecting parts are provided with second mechanical locking means that prevent displacement of two such panels connected at their second pair of opposing edges in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the connected panels, as well as in a direction perpendicular to the respective connected edges in a plane parallel to the connected panels; wherein the surface of at least one of the second male edge or the second female edge is provided with a second recess (36), the second recess preferably extending deeper into the panel than the location of the decorative layer; wherein the second recess is provided with a layer (31) of varnish, optionally containing sand and/or particles, preferably having a particle size of more than 20 μm; wherein the varnish layer of the second recess is at least partially visible in the connected state of the panel with another such panel at their respective second pair of opposing edges, wherein the thickness of the varnish layer of the second recess is preferably less than 200 μm, more preferably less than 100 μm, even more preferably less than 60 μm, wherein at least part of the side edge (34) of the second recess (36) is preferably provided with said layer of varnish, wherein the edge of the second pair of opposing edges (5, 6) opposite to the edge containing the second recess (36) preferably located at least above the section provided with a layer of varnish, and preferably the layer of varnish on this edge helps to create an imitation of grouting of the joined panels. 20. The panel of claim 19, wherein the varnish layer of the second recess includes a section that is parallel to the surface of the panel. 21. Panel according to claim 19 or 20, in which the surface of the varnish layer (31) of the recess (30) and the surface of the varnish layer (31) of the second recess (36) are at the same depth from the surface of the panel, and/or in a connected state at of the first pair of opposing edges (3, 4) of two such panels, the apparent width of the recess (30) is the same as the apparent width of the second recess (36) in the connected state of the second pair of opposing edges of the two such panels. 22. The panel according to any one of the preceding claims 13 to 21, wherein the edge of the panel where the recess is provided connects the edge of the panel where the second recess is provided at the joint (38); wherein in the connection, the varnish layer (31) of the recess (30) continues without interruption into the varnish layer (31) of the second recess (36); wherein the varnish layers of the recess and the second recess preferably have the same composition. -