BE1018949A3 - PANEL, COATING COMPOSED OF SUCH PANELS, METHOD FOR INSTALLING PANELS AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING PANELS. - Google Patents

Abstract

Panel, for forming a covering (2), more particularly a floor covering, this panel (1) being rectangular, i.e. elongated or square, characterized in that it is provided with coupling parts (13-14) on at least two opposite edges configured so that two such panels can be joined together by means of a rotational movement (W) of one panel (1A) relative to the other with one panel (1A) substantially in the pocket of the other panel ( 1B) is rotated. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method in which the panels are mutually coupled by means of such rotating movement, as well as a technique for manufacturing panels having locking portions which are not parallel to the actual edge of the panel.

Description

Panel, cladding composed of such panels, method for installing panels and method for manufacturing panels.

This invention relates to a panel, a covering composed of panels, a method for installing panels and a method for manufacturing panels.

In the first place, the invention is intended primarily to be applied to panels in the form of floor panels and thus coverings in the form of floor coverings, in particular floor panels of the type that allows such floor panels to be moved so-called floatingly. More specifically, it is intended for use with plate-shaped floor panels selected from the group of: panels with a printed decor on the surface, more special laminate panels, and even more special DPL panels (Direct Pressed Laminate) or direct printed panels; veneer flooring; composite parquet, also called "engineered wood"; solid parquet; plate-shaped wood-based panels with a top layer made of a different material. However, applications in other materials are not excluded.

More generally, the invention is also intended to be used with panels for other applications, such as ceiling panels, wall panels, as well as panels that have to be assembled together in one and the same plane for any purpose.

In the case of floor panels, it is known that they can be provided with mechanical coupling parts at their edges so that they can be mutually coupled during installation, wherein both vertical and horizontal locking are provided. A typical example of this is known from WO 97/47834. Since the commercial success of panels provided with coupling parts as described in WO 97/47834, a large number of variants of coupling parts for connecting floor panels have been developed and described in patent applications.

Depending on the design of such coupling parts, panels can be coupled to each other in different ways. There are, for example, coupling parts which allow such panels to be joined by a rotary movement, the one panel being coupled to the other panel from a position in which it is rolled out of the plane of the other panel. Coupling parts are also known that allow two panels to be joined by sliding them together in the same plane via a snap connection. There are also coupling parts that allow the panels to be connected to each other by both techniques. Examples of this are known from, among others, WO 97/47834 and WO 94/26999.

The use of coupling parts is also known that allow one panel to be coupled to another panel by means of a downward movement, for example as described in EP 1,159,497.

Furthermore, it is also known, for example in the case of rectangular panels, to provide coupling parts on all sides of these panels which, in the coupled state, provide a locking which prevents the panels from coming apart. Depending on the coupling parts employed, different methods are possible for installing such panels, more particularly for connecting them together, to form a covering, for example, a floor covering. For example, a revolving / revolving technique is known in which the panels are connected to each other by means of a revolving movement on both pairs of sides, as described inter alia in US 4,426,820 and WO 94/26999. According to another known technique, the panels are connected by means of a revolving / snap technique, in other words connected to a first edge via winding into one another and connected to a second edge by sliding the panels towards each other, which technique is also known, inter alia. is from the aforementioned WO 94/26999. Yet another technique consists in connecting a new panel to be installed by exclusively a downward movement on two right-angled sides to the panels already installed, for example as known from EP 1,159,497. There are also techniques in which the connection is realized on one side by a turning movement, while on a side perpendicular to this side a locking is obtained by means of the downward movement during the rotation of the panel. An example of this is known from EP 1,276,941.

According to a special technique known from BE 2002/0682 and WO 01/27410, coupling parts can also be used that allow two of such panels to be displaced over a specific length mainly in the longitudinal direction of the relevant edges of the panels by mutual displacement. can be coupled to each other and wherein the aforementioned edges are provided with integrated means, more particularly with guide-forming portions, which bring the floor panels at the aforementioned shift as a result of this shift from a first state to a second state, the floor panels being in the the second state are more tightly and / or more closely coupled to each other than in the first state.

In the latter technique, the shift is performed by shifting a panel to be connected with its longitudinal direction parallel to the panels already laid to a previous row. A disadvantage here is that this shift is quite difficult to realize, especially in the case of relatively long panels. Tests have shown that with the least form of careless joining, torsional forces can occur in the coupling parts which can lead to damage, such as breaking of locking parts.

The present invention contemplates panels which can be connected to each other at least two of their edges by means of mutual movement, mainly in the longitudinal direction of these edges, and which are improved compared to the known embodiments and more specifically allow to attach panels to easily connect these edges with each other and / or allow them to connect with each other with a minimum risk of damage. It also relates to a new method for installing panels, more particularly for forming a covering from such panels, which offers the advantage that panels can be connected to each other in a smooth manner. Finally, the invention also contemplates a method for manufacturing such panels that allows the coupling parts to be realized in an optimum manner at the edges.

To this end, according to a first aspect, the invention relates to a panel for forming a covering, wherein this panel is rectangular, i.e. elongated or square; - wherein this panel has a first pair of opposite edges defining a first edge and a second edge on the panel; - wherein this panel has a second pair of opposite edges, which define a third and a fourth edge on the panel, which extend transversely to the first and the second edge; - wherein the first and fourth edges, the fourth and second edges, the second and third edges and the third and first edges respectively define a first, second, third and fourth vertex on the panel; - wherein the panel is provided at least on the third and fourth edges with coupling parts that allow two of such panels to be coupled to each other at these edges, said coupling parts forming a first locking system whereby coupled panels are prevented from coming apart according to a direction perpendicular to their plane, and form a second locking system that provides mutual interlocking in a direction perpendicular to the respective edges and in the plane of the panels, with locking portions preventing the panels from sliding apart in the latter direction; characterized in that the coupling parts on the third edge and the fourth edge are configured such that two such panels can be coupled to each other by means of a rotational movement of one panel relative to the other, the one panel being substantially in the plane of the other panel is rotated, more particularly in the plane of the cladding, in such a way that it moves along its third edge along the fourth edge of the other panel, whereby this turning movement can be carried out at least from a well-defined twisted position of one panel relative to the other to an end position where the first edges of both panels are in line with each other, or are substantially parallel and still hardly apart.

The aforementioned locking parts are herein preferably designed as parts hooked one behind the other, which can be hooked laterally behind one another via the aforementioned turning movement.

According to a preferred embodiment the coupling parts on the third edge and the fourth edge are configured such that the aforementioned turning movement can be carried out while the panel that is rotated with its fourth corner point moves along, more specifically in contact with, the fourth edge of the other panel is becoming.

Still according to a preferred characteristic, the coupling parts are configured such that the above-mentioned turning movement can be carried out while the panel to be rotated is with its first angular point in the vicinity of the extension of the first edge of the other panel, preferably at no more than 5 cm from this extension, and better still not more than 2 cm from this extension, and even better with the first corner point in the aforementioned extension.

In practical terms, the aforementioned locking portions are designed as guide-forming portions which bring the panels as a result of the aforementioned turning movement from a first state to a second state, this second state being the state in which both panels are aligned with their first edges, and wherein the floor panels in the second state are more tightly and / or more closely coupled to each other than in the first state.

According to a second aspect, the invention relates to a panel for forming a covering, wherein this panel is rectangular, i.e. elongated or square; - wherein this panel has a first pair of opposite edges defining a first edge and a second edge on the panel; - wherein this panel has a second pair of opposite edges, which define a third and a fourth edge on the panel, which extend transversely to the first and the second edge; - wherein the first and fourth edges, the fourth and second edges, the second and third edges and the third and first edges respectively define a first, second, third and fourth vertex on the panel; - wherein the panel is provided at least on the third and fourth edges with coupling parts that allow two of such panels to be coupled to each other at these edges, said coupling parts forming a first locking system whereby coupled panels are prevented from coming apart according to a direction perpendicular to their plane, and form a second locking system that provides mutual interlocking in a direction perpendicular to the respective edges and in the plane of the panels, with locking portions preventing the panels from sliding apart in the latter direction; - wherein the coupling parts on the second pair of opposite edges allow a mutual displacement of the panels over at least a specific length mainly in the longitudinal direction of these edges, wherein the aforementioned locking parts function as guide-forming portions which the panels result from the aforesaid displacement of a bringing the first state into a second state in which the floor panels in the second state are more tightly and / or more closely coupled to each other than in the first state, characterized in that the locking sections are configured such that two such panels can be coupled to each other by by means of at least one revolving movement of one panel relative to the other, wherein one panel is rotated mainly in the plane of the other panel, more particularly thus in the plane of the covering, this by means of a revolving movement essentially around the first vertex of the head peeling panel is carried out, this first corner point being situated in the vicinity of the extension of the first edge of the previous panel.

In a preferred embodiment of the second aspect, the coupling parts, more specifically the guide-forming parts, are configured at the third edge and the fourth edge such that the aforementioned turning movement can be carried out while the panel being rotated with its fourth angular point along it, more particularly in contact with, the fourth edge of the other panel is moved.

According to yet another preferred embodiment of the second aspect of the invention, the coupling parts, more particularly the guide-forming parts, are configured such that the aforementioned turning movement can be carried out while the panel to be rotated is situated with its first corner point in the vicinity of the extension of the first edge of the other panel, preferably at no more than 5 cm from this extension, and more preferably at no more than 2 cm from this extension, and even better with the first angular point in the aforementioned extension.

According to a third aspect of the invention, this relates to a panel for forming a covering, wherein this panel is rectangular, i.e. elongated or square; - wherein this panel has a first pair of opposite edges defining a first edge and a second edge on the panel; - wherein this panel has a second pair of opposite edges, which define a third edge and a fourth edge on the panel, which extend transversely to the first and the second edge; - wherein the first and fourth edges, the fourth and second edges, the second and third edges and the third and first edges respectively define a first, second, third and fourth vertex on the panel; - wherein the panel is provided at least at the third edge and fourth edge with coupling parts that allow two of such panels to be coupled to each other at these edges, said coupling parts forming a first locking system whereby coupled panels are prevented from coming apart according to a perpendicular to their plane, and forming a second locking system that provides mutual interlocking in a direction perpendicular to the respective edges and in the plane of the panels, with locking portions preventing the panels from sliding apart in the latter direction; - wherein the coupling parts on the second pair of opposite edges allow a mutual displacement of the panels over at least a specific length mainly in the longitudinal direction of these edges, wherein the aforementioned locking parts function as guide-forming portions which the panels result from the aforesaid displacement of a bringing the first state into a second state wherein the floor panels in the second state are more tightly and / or more closely coupled to each other than in the first state; characterized in that the aforementioned coupling parts on the third edge and fourth edge are configured such that a new panel to be installed with the associated locking portion of the third edge via a movement perpendicular to the plane of the panel behind the locking portion of the fourth edge of a fourth edge of a previous panel can be hooked in, more particularly can be arranged behind it, this in a position where the new panel with its third edge is at least half of its length overlapping with the length of the fourth edge of the previous panel.

According to a preferred embodiment of the third aspect, the panel is characterized in that the coupling parts on the third and fourth edges, more particularly the locking portions, on the third and fourth edges are configured such that a new panel to be installed from the aforementioned position by means of a rotational movement essentially in the same plane as the previous panel, can be further linked to this previous panel.

According to yet another preferred embodiment of the third aspect, the coupling parts on the third and fourth edges, more particularly the aforementioned locking parts, on the third edge and the fourth edge are configured such that the aforementioned rolling movement can be performed while the panel being rotated with its fourth vertex along, more specifically in contact with, the fourth edge of the other panel is moved.

According to yet another preferred feature of the third aspect, the panel is characterized in that the coupling parts on the third and fourth edges, more particularly the aforementioned locking parts, are configured such that the aforementioned turning movement can be carried out while the panel to be turned with its first corner point is located in the vicinity of the extension of the first edge of the other panel, preferably at no more than 5 cm from this extension, and more preferably at no more than 2 cm from this extension, and even better with the first angular point in the the aforementioned extension.

According to a fourth independent aspect, the invention relates to a panel for forming a covering, wherein this panel is rectangular, i.e. elongated or square; - wherein this panel has a first pair of opposite edges defining a first edge and a second edge on the panel; - wherein this panel has a second pair of opposite edges, which define a third and a fourth edge on the panel, which extend transversely to the first and the second edge; - wherein the first and fourth edges, the fourth and second edges, the second and third edges and the third and first edges respectively define a first, second, third and fourth vertex on the panel; - wherein the panel is provided at least on the third and fourth edges with coupling parts that allow two of such panels to be coupled to each other at these edges, said coupling parts forming a first locking system whereby coupled panels are prevented from coming apart according to a direction perpendicular to their plane, and form a second locking system that provides mutual interlocking in a direction perpendicular to the respective edges and in the plane of the panels, with locking parts preventing the panels from sliding apart in the latter direction; characterized in that the second locking system is actively present on the third and fourth edges only over a part of the length of these edges because it is absent from the second or third angular point over a distance from the fourth and third edges, in other words is not active, for example due to the absence of one or both of the locking parts.

According to a preferred embodiment of the fourth aspect, such a panel is characterized in that the aforementioned coupling parts are in the form of a tongue and groove, the tongue being arranged on the third edge, while the groove is on the fourth edge, the groove is defined by an upper lip and a lower lip, the lower lip of which extends beyond the upper lip, one of the aforementioned locking portions being located on the aforementioned lower lip, said locking portion being only over a portion of the length of extends the relevant edge.

It is clear that the fourth aspect must be seen especially in combination with panels that allow such a panel as aforementioned to be coupled to this other panel via a rotational movement in the plane of another panel.

According to a fifth aspect, the invention relates to a panel for forming a covering, wherein this panel is rectangular, i.e. elongated or square; - wherein this panel has a first pair of opposite edges defining a first edge and a second edge on the panel; - wherein this panel has a second pair of opposite edges, which define a third and a fourth edge on the panel, which extend transversely to the first and the second edge; - wherein the first and fourth edges, the fourth and second edges, the second and third edges and the third and first edges respectively define a first, second, third and fourth vertex on the panel; - wherein the panel is provided at least on the third and fourth edges with coupling parts that allow two of such panels to be coupled to each other at these edges, said coupling parts forming a first locking system whereby coupled panels are prevented from coming apart according to a direction perpendicular to their plane, and form a second locking system that provides mutual interlocking in a direction perpendicular to the respective edges and in the plane of the panels, with locking portions preventing the panels from sliding apart in the latter direction; - wherein the coupling parts on the second pair of opposite edges allow a mutual displacement of the panels over at least a specific length mainly in the longitudinal direction of these edges, wherein the aforementioned locking parts function as guide-forming portions which the panels result from the aforesaid displacement of a bringing the first state into a second state wherein the floor panels in the second state are more tightly and / or more closely coupled to each other than in the first state; characterized in that the aforementioned locking sections are configured such that two such panels can be coupled to each other by means of a turning movement of one panel relative to the other, one panel being rotated substantially in the plane of the other panel, more particularly thus in the plane of the cladding, and that at least one of the locking portions on the third or fourth edge of the panel terminates laterally in the course of the edge.

In a preferred embodiment of a panel according to the fifth aspect, such panel is characterized in that the aforementioned coupling parts are in the form of a tongue and groove, the tongue being arranged on the third edge, while the groove is on the fourth edge the groove is delimited by an upper lip and a lower lip, the lower lip of which extends beyond the upper lip, one of the aforementioned locking portions being located on the aforementioned lower lip, said locking portion acting as a guide-forming portion and this guide-forming portion opens laterally into the fourth edge.

According to a sixth aspect of the invention, it relates to a panel for forming a covering, said panel being rectangular, i.e. elongated or square; - wherein this panel has a first pair of opposite edges defining a first edge and a second edge on the panel; - wherein this panel has a second pair of opposite edges, which define a third and a fourth edge on the panel, which extend transversely to the first and the second edge; - wherein the first and fourth edges, the fourth and second edges, the second and third edges and the third and first edges respectively define a first, second, third and fourth vertex on the panel; - wherein the panel is provided at least on the third and fourth edges with coupling parts which allow two of such panels to be coupled to each other at these edges, said coupling parts forming a first locking system whereby coupled panels are prevented from coming apart according to a direction perpendicular to their plane, and form a second locking system that provides mutual interlocking in a direction perpendicular to the respective edges and in the plane of the panels, with locking portions preventing the panels from sliding apart in the latter direction; - wherein the coupling parts on the second pair of opposite edges allow a mutual displacement of the panels over at least a specific length mainly in the longitudinal direction of these edges, wherein the aforementioned locking parts function as guide-forming portions which the panels result from the aforesaid displacement of a bringing the first state into a second state wherein the floor panels in the second state are more tightly and / or more closely coupled to each other than in the first state; characterized in that at least one of the aforementioned locking sections is designed as a guide-forming section which has a gradient with a gradually changing degree of inclination, this over a distance of at least 1 / 4th of the length of the relevant edge.

It is clear that the characteristics of all the aforementioned aspects can be combined at will, insofar as the characteristics are not contradictory to each other.

Furthermore, the panels which are designed in accordance with all the aforementioned aspects can have one or more of the following additional features: - that at least one of the aforementioned locking parts, and preferably both, with the possible exception of a walk-in rounding or chamfer, with respect to the course has a slope of the actual edge of the panel, respectively, which deviates over the majority of these locking sections by less than 20 degrees and even better by less than 10 degrees from the direction in which the third and fourth edges extend; - that at least one of the aforementioned locking parts, and preferably both, has a slope over the major part with respect to the course of the actual edge of the panel, but this slope, however, towards the first edge at this first edge or already from becomes zero at a distance before; - that at least one of the aforementioned locking parts over the largest part of its length, and preferably both, is arcuate and more specifically circular arcuate, respectively; - that the arcuate portion is designed with a radius of the order of 0.5 to 1.25 times the length of the panel; - that the center of the aforementioned arc is located on the first edge or the extension thereof; - that at least one of the aforementioned locking portions has a portion that is substantially parallel to the third or fourth edge; - the aforementioned locking portions on the third and fourth edges, in the fully coupled state, contacting each other over at least 1/4 of the length of these edges; - that the aforementioned locking portions contact each other in the fully coupled state of two panels on the third and fourth edges along the full length of the shortest locking portion, with the exception of any run-in rounding or run-off chamfer; - that the coupling parts on the third or fourth edge are configured such that they initially fit into each other with play, but when the one panel rotates into each other, a play-free coupling is ultimately created; - that the coupling parts on the third and fourth edges are configured such that so-called bias is obtained in the finally coupled state; - that it is a panel intended to be installed in rows together with other panels, the first edge being intended to be coupled to a previous row of panels, the second edge being intended to be coupled to a subsequent row of panels, the third edge is intended to be coupled to a previous panel in the same row and the fourth edge is intended to be coupled to a subsequent panel in the same row; - that the aforementioned locking sections extend substantially linearly over their entire length, but this at an angle with respect to the relevant upper edge of the panel; - that two or more locking parts are present on the third edge, as well as correspondingly two or more locking parts on the fourth edge; - that they are elongated panels, the aforementioned third edge and fourth edge forming the short sides of the panels; - the aforementioned elongated panels have a length of more than 1.25 m; - that the coupling parts on the third and fourth edges are in the form of a tongue and groove, the groove being delimited by a lower lip and an upper lip, the locking portions being respectively on the upper side of the lower lip and the lower side of the tooth; That said locking portions have locking surfaces cooperating with each other, wherein the locking surface of the lower lip is at least partially and preferably completely beyond the distal end of the upper lip; • that the coupling parts at the third and fourth edges can be hooked up one after the other by a vertical or mainly vertical movement, this in a position in which one panel is still rotated relative to the other, after which the rotation of one panel relative to the other is secured in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the panels; - that the coupling parts on the third and fourth edges are configured such that they allow two of these panels to be joined together by snapping them together, preferably by one panel substantially in the same plane as the other panel towards this other panel by sliding, and / or by rotating them laterally into each other, by presenting one panel from a position in which it is rotated out of the plane of the other panel with its third edge along the fourth edge of the other panel and then to to rotate in the plane of the other panel; - that coupling parts are present at the first pair of opposite edges which form at least a first locking system whereby coupled panels are prevented from coming apart in a direction perpendicular to their plane; - that the coupling parts on the first pair of opposite edges also form a second locking system which provides for a mutual locking in a direction perpendicular to the respective edges and in the plane of the panels, with locking parts sliding the panels apart according to the latter direction obstruct; - that the coupling parts on the first pair of opposite edges are formed as straight-through profiles which extend parallel along the respective edges; - that the coupling parts on the first pair of opposite edges are designed in the form of a tongue and groove, which are provided with the aforementioned locking parts, wherein the tongue and the groove are designed such that when two of such panels with their first and second edges are moved towards each other in the same plane, the tooth automatically comes to sit at least partially in the groove, more specifically the tip of the tooth automatically sits under a lip that bounds the top of the groove; - that the groove is on the second edge and the tooth on the first, while also the coupling parts on the third and fourth edges are mainly designed as a tongue and groove, the tongue of which is on the third edge and the groove on the fourth edge; - the aforementioned groove belonging to the first pair of opposite edges is bounded by an upper lip and a lower lip, the lower lip extending laterally beyond the upper lip; - that the groove mentioned in the previous paragraph is provided with a locking part in the form of a locking surface which is at least partially located in the part of the lower lip that is situated laterally beyond the upper lip; - that the coupling parts on the first and second edges are configured such that they allow two of these panels to be joined together by snapping them into each other, preferably by one panel substantially in the same plane as the other panel towards this other panel by sliding, and / or by rotating them laterally into each other, by presenting the one panel from a position where it is rotated out of the plane of the other panel with its first edge along the second edge of the other panel and then in the rotate flat from the other panel .; - that the coupling parts are arranged at least on the third and fourth edges, and preferably on all four edges of the panel, in one piece in the panel, and preferably consist of profiles milled in the edge; - that it concerns a panel with a core from a material from the group of MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) and HDF (High Density Fiberboard); - that it is a floor panel; - that it is a plate-shaped floor panel from the group of: panels with a printed decor on the surface, more special laminate panels, and even more special DPL panels (Direct Pressed Laminate) or direct printed panels; veneer flooring; composite parquet, also called "engineered wood"; solid parquet; plate-shaped wood-based panels with a top layer made of a different material.

According to the seventh aspect, the invention relates to a new installation technique for mutually connecting panels to form a covering. To this end, it relates to a method for installing panels, more particularly for forming a covering, said covering being composed of a plurality of panels, characterized in that panels are used for this purpose which are provided on two or more edges with coupling parts which allow that such panels can be coupled to each other at these edges, said coupling parts forming a first locking system which prevents coupled panels from coming apart in a direction perpendicular to their plane, and forming a second locking system which in a mutual lock according to a direction perpendicular to provides the respective edges and in the plane of the panels concerned, with locking portions which prevent the panels from sliding apart according to the latter direction and wherein the coupling parts of at least two edges are configured such that two of such panels are provided by means of the aforementioned coupling parts aa n can be coupled to each other by means of a rotational movement of one panel relative to the other, one panel being rotated substantially in the plane of the other panel, and the method consisting in that the covering is formed by at least a number of of such panels to be connected to each other, wherein they are connected to each other at least at the aforementioned two edges via a turning movement of the panels as aforesaid.

According to a preferred embodiment, the method is further characterized in that panels are used for this purpose which are rectangular, i.e. elongated or square; having a first pair of opposite edges defining a first edge and a second edge on such panel; having a second pair of opposite edges defining a third and a fourth edge on such panel extending transversely of the first and second edges; wherein the first and fourth edges, the fourth and second edges, the second and third edges and the third and first edges define a first, second, third, and fourth corner points on the panel, respectively; and wherein such panel is provided at least on the third and fourth edges with said coupling parts allowing two of such panels to be coupled to each other by means of said turning movement of one panel relative to the other, wherein when coupling a panel with its third edge on the fourth edge of a different panel than is realized by moving the first panel with its third edge along the fourth edge of the other panel during the aforementioned turning movement.

Other preferred or special features of the method are that: when realizing the aforementioned revolving movement, the relevant panel is moved with its fourth angular point along the fourth edge of the other panel, preferably in contact with this edge; - that the aforementioned turning movement is carried out while the panel to be rotated is situated with its first corner point in the vicinity of the extension of the first edge of the other panel, preferably at no more than 5 cm from this extension, and more preferably at not more than 2 cm from this extension, and even better with the first corner point in the aforementioned extension; - that the panels are installed in consecutive rows, the panels intended to be surrounded by other panels being coupled with their first edge to a previous row of panels, being coupled with their second edge to a following row of panels, with their third edge is coupled to a previous panel in the same row and is coupled to their fourth edge with a subsequent panel in the same row; - that when performing the above-mentioned turning movement by means of one of the aforementioned panels, this panel with its first corner point is kept in contact with the second edge of a panel located in the previous row, such that this edge is carried out during the execution of the rotational movement acts as a support for the corner point; - that panels are used which are also provided at their first and second edges with coupling parts which form a first locking system whereby coupled panels are prevented from coming apart in a direction perpendicular to their plane, and also form a second locking system which in a mutual locking according to provides a direction perpendicular to the relevant edges and in the plane of the panels, with locking portions preventing the panels from sliding apart according to the latter direction, whereby a connection is made via these coupling parts to the first pair of opposite edges mainly after the third edge such panel is coupled to the fourth edge of an adjacent panel by means of the aforementioned revolving movement; - for the first and second edge coupling parts are used in the form of a tongue and groove, which are provided with the aforementioned locking parts, wherein the tongue and the groove are designed such that when two of such panels with their first and second edges face are moved together in the same plane, the tooth automatically comes to sit at least partially in the groove, more specifically the tip of the tooth automatically comes to lie under a lip which bounds the top of the groove; - that during the aforementioned revolving movement, at least during a part of this revolving movement, the aforementioned tip of the tooth is brought and held below the aforementioned lip at the location of the first angular point; - that when performing the above-mentioned turning movement, the above-mentioned tip of the tooth is systematically brought along the entire length of the first edge under the above-mentioned lip of the panel located in the previous row; - that panels are used that can be mutually attached to each other at their first edge and second edge by presenting a panel from a position in which it is rotated from the plane of another panel with its first edge along the second edge of the other panel and then rotate in the plane of the other panel; - that such panel is connected with its first edge to the second edge of a panel in the previous row by turning it slightly out of the plane of the cladding and then turning it back so that a connection is made, the previous panel being is in the same row and is coupled with its fourth edge to the third edge of the last panel, is briefly rotated back and forth during this rotation; - the method is used to form a floor-covering covering, the panels consisting of floor panels; and that a new panel to be installed is shifted at least partially over the subsurface when performing the aforementioned turning movement; - that in the method use is made of panels as described above.

According to the eighth aspect, the invention relates to a method for manufacturing panels, with which a technique is provided that allows panels whose locking parts do not run parallel to the top edge, to be realized in an optimum manner. To this end, it relates to a method for manufacturing panels, wherein these panels are provided on at least two opposite edges with coupling parts that allow two of such panels to be coupled at these edges to each other, said coupling parts forming a first locking system through which coupled panels are prevented from coming apart in a direction perpendicular to their plane, and form a second locking system that provides mutual interlocking in a direction perpendicular to the respective edges and in the plane of the panels, with locking portions sliding apart prevent the panels according to the latter direction; wherein the coupling parts on these edges allow a mutual displacement of the panels over at least a specific length mainly in the longitudinal direction of these edges, wherein the aforementioned locking sections act as guide-forming portions which the panels as a result of the aforementioned displacement of a first state into a bringing the second state wherein the floor panels in the second state are more tightly and / or more closely coupled to each other than in the first state; and wherein at least one of the guide-forming portions along its longitudinal direction is made with a gradient that deviates from the associated actual edge of the panel, characterized in that at least said conductive portion, with the different gradient, is realized by means of a rotary cutter, the cutter and the panel perform a relative movement and wherein the axis of the cutter according to a view perpendicular to the plane of the panel, during the major part of the milling process for forming the respective guide-forming portion, is an angle with the direction of the actual edge of the panel that deviates from 90 degrees. In other words, this means that the cutting line between the plane of the panel and the plane of rotation of the cutter makes an angle with the actual edge of the panel.

According to a first possibility, the aforementioned angle is kept substantially constant. In this first possibility, it is further preferred that the cutting line of the plane in which the cutter rotates and the plane of the panel corresponds to or substantially corresponds to an average slope of the guide-forming portion. By working at a fixed angle, a good compromise is obtained between, on the one hand, limiting undesired undercutting effects and, on the other hand, the complexity of the milling machines required for this purpose.

According to a second possibility, a guide-forming section is formed with a gradient that deviates from a straight line, and the aforementioned angle is continuously adjusted during the milling of the guide-forming section as a function of the above-mentioned course. This has the advantage that undercut effects over the entire length of the locking sections can be maximally minimized at any point, but has the disadvantage that a more complex movement and control of such a cutter is necessary.

It is clear that the above-described manufacturing technique is particularly suitable for realizing the panels described earlier.

It is also clear that the invention also relates to panels manufactured according to the aforementioned method.

With the insight to better demonstrate the features of the invention, a number of preferred embodiments are described below as examples without any limiting character, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 schematically and in top view shows a panel covering according to the invention, more specifically a floor covering; figure 2 shows on a larger scale the part which is indicated by F2 in figure 1; figure 3 shows on a larger scale the part which is indicated with F3 in figure 2, for a slightly further twisted state of the panel to be laid; figure 4 represents a top view in perspective of the edge of the panel which is indicated by F4 in figure 2; figure 5 represents a perspective view of the underside of the panel at the edge indicated by F5 in figure 2, the panel being shown upside down; figures 6, 7 and 8 show sections on a larger scale, respectively along lines VI-VI, VII-VII and VIII-VIII in figure 3; figure 9 represents a section according to line IX-IX in figure 6; figures 10 and 11 show sections similar to those of figure 6, but for different mutual positions of the relevant edges; figure 12 represents a section on a larger scale according to line XII-XII in figure 2; Figures 13 to 16 schematically and in various steps illustrate how a panel can be installed according to the method of the invention; figure 17 represents a section on a larger scale according to line XVII-XVII in figure 16; figure 18 shows the same view as in figure 17, but for a different mutual position of the panels; figure 19 represents a view analogous to that of figure 9, but for a fully coupled state; figure 20 represents a section according to line XX-XX in figure 19; figure 21 represents a section for a variant as in figure 7, but for an initial position of a new panel to be inserted; figures 22 to 25 show highly coupled two linked panels, for different embodiments; figure 26 represents another variant in section; figure 27 schematically represents a special embodiment of a panel according to the invention; Figures 28 to 31 show how a panel according to the invention can be manufactured; figure 32 shows a view according to arrow F32 in figure 29, perpendicular to the plane of the panel.

The invention is described below with reference to panels which are designed as floor panels. However, it is clear that it can also be used with other panels.

Figures 1 to 3 also show panels 1 which can be coupled to each other to form a covering 2 in the form of a floor covering.

Such panel 1 is rectangular and has a first pair of opposite edges 3, which define a first edge 4 and a second edge 5 on the panel, as well as a second pair of opposite edges 6, which have a third edge 7 and a fourth edge 8 on the panel. define which extend transversely to the first and second edges. The first and fourth edges, the fourth and second edges, the second and third edges and the third and first edges respectively form a first vertex 9, a second vertex 10, a third vertex 11 and a fourth vertex 12.

As shown in figures 4 to 8, the panel 1 on the third edge 7 and fourth edge 8 is provided with coupling parts 13 and 14, which allow two of such panels 1 on these edges 7-8 to be coupled to each other, these coupling parts form a first locking system 15 whereby coupled panels 1 are prevented from coming apart in a direction R1 perpendicular to their plane, and form a second locking system 16 which in a mutual locking in a direction R2 perpendicular to the respective edges 3-4 and in the plane of the panels 1.

As is more specifically visible in Figures 6 and 7, the coupling parts 13-14 preferably comprise a tongue and groove connection, with a tongue 17 and a groove 18, as well as locking parts 19-20.

The tooth 17 and the groove 18 form the locking system 15 which provides the locking in the direction R1. The groove is preferably bounded by an upper lip 21 and a lower lip 22 which extends beyond the upper lip 21, in other words, extends beyond this.

The locking portions 19 and 20, in the fully coupled state of two of such panels, together with the fact that the upper edges 23-24 of the panels are therefore against each other, form a lock in the aforementioned direction R2. The locking parts 19-20 consist of parts hooked one behind the other and provided with corresponding contact surfaces, more specifically locking surfaces, 25 and 26, such that sliding of the panels according to direction R2 is prevented. As shown, one of the locking portions, in this case 20, is preferably at the top of the lower lip 22, while the other locking portion 19 is at the bottom of the tooth. In the fully coupled state, the contact surfaces 25 and 26 are located at least partially, or as here, preferably completely, in the portion of the lower lip 22 that is beyond the distal end of the upper lip 21.

According to the invention, the coupling parts 13-14 on the third edge 7 and the fourth edge 8 are configured such that two of such panels 1 at these edges 7-8 can be coupled to each other by means of a rotational movement of the one panel 1 with respect to the other, wherein one panel having the third edge 7 to be coupled is mainly rotated in the plane of the other panel, more particularly thus in the plane of the covering 2, and in such a way that it engages with its third edge 7 roughly moves along the fourth edge 8 of the other panel. The above-mentioned rolling movement is indicated by arrow W, inter alia in figures 1 to 3.

The coupling parts 13-14 are herein preferably configured such that the turning movement W can be carried out at least from a certain rotated position of the one panel, i.e. the panel to be installed, to the other panel already installed, to an end position where the first edges 4 of both panels are in line with each other or are substantially parallel and still hardly apart. For clarification, in the figures, the aforementioned "one panel" and the aforementioned "other panel" are again additionally designated with references 1A and 1B in addition to the general reference 1.

The aforementioned configuration of the coupling parts 13-14 is mainly related to the configuration of the locking parts 19 and 20, which for this purpose each preferably have a special course that is not parallel to the actual straight edges, more particularly upper edges 23-24 of the respective panels 1.

More specifically, the aforementioned locking parts 19-20, and in particular the contact or locking surfaces 25-26, are designed as parts hooked one behind the other, which can be hooked laterally behind each other at least via the aforementioned turning movement W. By sideways it is meant that the one locking portion 19 is slid from one end behind the other end 20, as can be seen in figure 9.

Preferably, the coupling parts 13-14 at the third edge 7 and the fourth edge 8 are configured such that the aforementioned turning movement W can be performed while the panel 1A which is rotated with its fourth angular point 12 along, more specifically in contact with, the fourth edge 8 of the other panel 1B is moved, as is shown systematically with the two different positions in Figure 1.

In the example shown, the locking portions 19-20 are also configured such that the aforementioned turning movement can be performed while the panel 1A to be rotated is positioned with its first angular point 9, which then acts as a center of rotation, in the vicinity of the extension of the first edge 4 of the other panel 1B, preferably at no more than 5 cm from this extension, and more preferably at no more than 2 cm from this extension, and even better with the first angular point 9 in the aforementioned extension, as shown in the figures 1 and 2.

It is generally noted that the "winding movement W" does not necessarily mean a circular rotation. After all, the rolling movement can be accompanied by other movements. After all, when the panel 1A with its fourth angular point 12 is kept in contact with the fourth edge 8 of the panel 1B during the rotation, the rotation point or center of rotation C slightly shifts and the revolving movement is thus combined with a translation movement.

The example shown also illustrates that the locking portions 19-20 are designed as guide-forming portions which, as a result of the aforementioned winding movement, move the panels 1 from a first state to a second state, this second state being the state in which both panels with their first edges 4 are in line with each other, and wherein the floor panels in the second state are more tightly and / or more closely coupled to each other than in the first state. After all, in the initial state, the panels are open at their upper edges 23-24, while in the second state they occupy a closed position. Also, whatever is the case in the embodiment shown, there may be play in the first position in the coupling, while in the second position, or thus in the end position, there is no play. Such play allows a smooth rotation of the panels by means of the winding movement W.

The embodiment described above also forms an example of the fourth aspect of the invention in that the second locking system, in this case the locking system which provides for horizontal locking, on the third and fourth edge only over a part of the length of these edges 7 -8 is actively present and is absent from the second or third angular point over a distance at the third or fourth edge, respectively. This is specifically visible in Figures 4 and 9 in that the locking part 20 does not exist over the distance D1 and no locking is obtained there.

More specifically, in the example shown, the locking portion 20 opens laterally in the course of the fourth edge 8, this in accordance with the fifth aspect of the invention.

As is still clearly visible in figures 4, 5 and 9, the locking parts 19-20 are designed as guide-forming parts which have a course with a gradually changing degree of inclination, this over a distance D2 which is at least V * of the length of the relevant edge 7 and 8 respectively. In figures 4 and 5, the indicated distance D2 each is that which belongs to the fourth edge 18. In other words, this means that the locking parts do not follow a straight line, but a curve.

Figures 4, 5 and 9 also show that the aforementioned locking parts 19-20 have a slope S with respect to the course of the actual edge, more particularly upper edge 23 and 24, respectively, of the panel which over the major part of these guide-forming portions 19-20 deviate less than 20 degrees and more preferably less than 10 degrees from the direction in which the aforementioned upper edges 23-24 extend. This slope S changes and decreases in the direction of the first edge 4 to preferably become zero at the height of this first edge 4.

According to the example shown, and as visible in Figures 3 to 5 and 9, the locking portions 19 and 20 are arcuate over their entire length and more specifically circular arcuate. The magnitude of the radius R of this arc is preferably 0.5 to 1.25 times the length of the panel. In the example, the magnitude of the radius R is exactly equal to the length of the panel 1. The center point of the arc shape is on the corresponding first edge 4 or on its extension.

As shown, the invention is particularly suitable for elongated panels, since the radius R is then relatively large. The aforementioned third edge 7 and fourth edge 8 then form the short sides of the panels 1.

Figure 10 shows that the coupling parts 13-14 on the third edge 7 and fourth edge 8 are preferably also configured such that when a panel 1 with its tooth 17 is pushed to the groove 18 of another panel, this tooth 17 is automatically its upper side 27 takes place below the lower side 28 of the upper lip 21.

More particularly, it is preferable that the configuration allows two of such panels 1 to be joined together by snapping them into each other, preferably by sliding one panel substantially in the same plane as the other panel toward this other panel.

Furthermore, the configuration of the coupling parts 13-14, and more particularly of the locking parts 19-20, is also such that two such panels 1 can be coupled to each other by rotating them laterally into each other, through the one panel from a position where it is rotated out of the plane of the other panel with its third edge 7 to be presented along the fourth edge 8 of the other panel 1 and then rotated in the plane of the other panel, as shown in Figure 11.

As shown in Fig. 12, on the first pair of opposite edges 3 are provided coupling parts 29-30 which both form a first locking system 31 preventing coupled panels from coming apart in a direction perpendicular to their plane, as well as forming a second locking system 32 which provides mutual locking in a direction perpendicular to the relevant edges and in the plane of the panels, with locking portions 33-34 preventing the panels from sliding apart in the latter direction. These coupling parts 29-30 are designed as straight-through profiles which extend parallel along the respective edges 4 and 5.

More specifically, they are in the form of a tooth 35 and groove 36, which are provided with the aforementioned locking parts 33-34, which latter respective contact surfaces, more particularly, have locking surfaces 37-38. These contact surfaces can be of any suitable shape and need not be flat.

Here, too, it is preferred that the groove is delimited by an upper lip 39 and a lower lip 40, the lower lip 40 extending laterally beyond the upper lip 39. The aforementioned contact surface 38 is preferably located at least partially in the portion of the lower lip that is laterally located beyond the upper lip, and more preferably is fully located in that portion as shown.

Here too the tooth 35 and the groove 36 are designed such that when two of such panels are moved with their first and second edges in the same plane, the tooth automatically comes to sit at least partially in the groove, more particularly the upper side 41 of the tip of the tooth automatically takes place underneath the bottom 42 of the upper lip 39.

The coupling parts on the first and second edges 4-5 are also configured to allow two of these panels to be joined together by snapping them together, preferably by connecting one panel substantially in the same plane as the other panel to this sliding another panel, and / or by rotating them laterally into each other, by presenting one panel from a position where it is rotated out of the plane of the other panel with its first edge along the second edge of the other panel and then rotate in the plane of the other panel.

In general, it is preferred that the coupling parts are arranged in one piece in the panel at least on the third and fourth edges 7-8, and preferably on all four edges 4-5-7-8 of the panel 1, and preferably consist of profiles milled in the edge.

With reference to Figures 13 to 19, it will now be described how such a panel of the invention can be installed. The technique described below also forms an example of the method of installing panels according to the invention.

According to Figure 13, the panel 1A is presented in rotated position to the other panels 1-1B, with the first angular point 9 in contact with the previous row of panels 1 and with the fourth angular point 12 against the short side, more particularly the fourth edge 8 of the panel 1B. At the first angular point 9, it is preferable to ensure that the tip of the tooth is under the upper lip, as shown in full line in Figure 12.

By subjecting the panel 1A to the aforementioned turning movement W, the aforementioned locking parts 19 and 20 are brought one behind the other. During this winding movement W it is ensured that the panel 1A with its fourth angular point 12 is guided along the third edge of the panel 1B. Due to the fact that at the first angular point 9 the tip of the tooth is under the upper lip, and at the fourth angular point 12 the tooth also engages in the groove, the panel 1A is effectively guided in the correct direction during the rolling movement.

By bringing the panel 1A completely against the panels 1 of the previous row by means of the above-mentioned revolving movement with its first edge 4, a situation is created as in Figure 14, in which the short edges in this case are almost completely coupled and to the long edges the tip of the tooth on the edge 4 of the panel 1A along the full length of this panel 1A is under the upper lip of the panels 1 in the previous row, in a position as in Figure 12.

Then, the panel 1A as shown in Fig. 15 is slightly tilted upwards, the panel 1B moving along, after which the panel 1A can be slid with the tooth 35 into the groove 36 on the previous row of panels 1, as illustrated in Figs. 16 and 17 The upward rotation of the panel 1A is a movement which is almost automatically induced during the laying of the panel 1A in that when the panel 1A is pulled to the previous row of panels 1, the locking portion 33 on the underside of the tooth 35 is automatically raised. the locking portion 34 of the groove 36 is slid, this while the tip of the tooth 35 is already under the upper lip 39, all this as can be deduced from Figure 17. It is clear that on the underside of the tooth 35 and the upper side of the lower lip 38 it is preferably provided here with a shape that promotes smooth sliding of the parts concerned, for example by means of respective chamfers 43 and 44.

By subsequently rotating the panels 1A and 1B and possibly other panels in the same row that are also co-rotated upwards, the situation of figure 18 arises.

Figures 19 and 20 still show the coupled state at the coupled edges 7 and 8 ..

It is noted that all the aforementioned operations can be smoothly accomplished when the installer takes a seat on the already laid portion of the floor covering, and pulls the panel 1A toward him, as shown with the hands 45 in Figure 1. It is noted that the aforementioned revolving movement of the panel 1A mainly takes place in the plane of the previous panel 1B. This does not have to be strictly the same plane, since the coupling parts 13-14 initially allow some deviations during the joining. Practically speaking, for example, in the hands 45 shown in Figure 1, the fingers can be kept under the panel 1A during the complete swinging movement. of the panel 1A, as well as during coupling to the long edges.

Fig. 21 shows a special embodiment in which the coupling parts 13-14 on the third and fourth edges are configured such that a new panel 1A to be installed with the associated locking portion of the third edge via a movement M perpendicular to the plane of the rear panel the locking portion 20 of the fourth edge of a previous panel 1B can be hooked in, while the panel 1A is in the initially rotated position relative to the panel 1B. This makes it possible to simply place a panel 1A initially with the tooth 17 on the lower lip 22, without the tooth 17 already having to be inserted under the upper lip 21 of the groove 18, whereafter the tooth 17 when performing the said rolling movement W will then automatically be pulled into the groove 18, more particularly under the upper lip 21, due to the special course of the locking parts 19 and 20.

It is noted that the course of the locking parts 19 and 20 in the most preferred embodiment is situated within a certain zone. This zone is shown in Figure 22 with the shaded portion 46. This preferred zone is fixed in function of the dimensions of the panel 1A. The radius R corresponds here to the distance from the first angular point 9 to the starting point 47 of the course of the locking parts 19 and 20 at the level of the first edge 1. The zone 46 is bounded by a straight line 48 and an arc 49. line 48 is obtained by drawing a circle arc 50 with a radius R / 2 through the starting point 47, with the center located on the first edge 1, and then connecting the starting point 47 with a line to the point 51 where the arc 50 lower lip. The arc 49 is obtained by drawing a circle with a radius R from the starting point 47, the center of which is situated at the corner point 9.

At the edge 1, the starting point 47 is preferably placed as far as possible inwards in the groove 18, in other words on the part of the lower lip 22 which projects beyond the upper lip 21, but as close as possible to the distal end from the upper lip. According to a special embodiment, it is not even excluded to locate the starting point under the upper lip. The actual position depends on the tools used, more specifically milling, and on the desired profile.

It is noted that the locking parts 19 and 20 can be realized according to a large number of variants. Figures 23 to 25 show a number of variants in a highly diagrammatic way, the line 52 always representing the place where the contact surfaces 25-26 interact with each other. In Figure 23 this is a straight line. In figure 24 this is the combination of a straight and an arc. In figure 25 use is made of a portion 53 which runs parallel to the relevant upper edges of the panels. The dashed line in Figure 25 shows that the locking sections do not necessarily have to connect to each other over their entire course.

Figure 26 shows a variant that illustrates that several locking parts 19A-19B and 20A-20B can be used one after the other, each of which, for example, has a curved course.

It is noted that a panel according to the invention can also be realized by providing on the aforementioned fourth edge 8 a locking portion 20 which is only present over a small distance L, as is shown schematically in Figure 27, while the locking portion 19, which is not here is shown, may extend parallel to the entire third edge 7. Because of the short length L, and the fact that most materials are easily deformable, the continuous locking part 19 can after all be rotated without problems by means of the aforementioned turning movement W beyond the short locking part 20. The advantage of this is that the locking portion 20 can be linear and parallel to the upper edge 24.

Figures 28 to 31 show how the panels 1 can be manufactured, more specifically the coupling parts 13-14 can be formed in the edges 7-8 by means of rotary cutters 54-55-56-57.

With the milling cutters 54 and 56, the global tooth and growth shape is achieved. With these cutters, profiles are drawn that are parallel to the actual edges of the panels.

The locking portions 19 and 20 are formed with the cutters 55 and 57. These milling cutters are moved axially, or at least axially, during each milling cycle of a panel. This axial displacement is schematically indicated by arrow 58 in the view of Figure 32 for the cutter 55 and is preferably effected by moving the cutter concerned together with the drive motor 59, by means of a drive mechanism (not shown). According to a particular aspect of the invention, the cutter and the panel perform a relative movement V, the axis 60 of the cutter 57 according to a view on top of the panel, during most of the milling process for forming the guide-forming locking portion 20, forms an angle A with the direction of the actual edge of the panel that deviates from 90 degrees. Among other things, undercut effects can be minimized by means of such a deviating angle.

This angle A is preferably kept substantially constant.

As is visible in Figure 32, it is preferable that the aforementioned angle A is adjusted so that the intersection line of the plane in which the cutter rotates and the plane of the panel 1 corresponds or substantially corresponds to an average slope of the guide forming locking portion 20. It is it is clear that such an angle adjustment will also be used for the cutter 55.

28 to 31, the panels are always shown with the decorative side facing up, but it is clear that they can also be positioned upside down or in a different direction during a milling operation.

Of course, it is not excluded to provide a more sophisticated control, wherein the milling cutter in question is still rotated in a controlled manner during each milling cycle, as indicated by arrow 61, or thus angle A is changed during the formation of the relevant locking part 20 so as to keep the position of such a cutter always aligned with the course of a realized locking part.

It is noted that the idea of using a milling cutter whose axis, more specifically the axis of rotation, makes an angle perpendicular to the panel perpendicular to the actual edge of the panel that differs from 90 degrees, for manufacturing a portion, more particularly a locking part, of a coupling profile which does not extend parallel to the actual edge of the panel, also forms an invention per se, and this inventive idea is therefore not limited to panels as described above.

It is noted that the invention also relates to embodiments in which the above-mentioned rolling movement only forms part of the complete movement with which a panel 1A is coupled to a panel 1B.

Very short linear movements, for example at the end of a rolling movement, can be regarded as part of the rolling movement. Such small linear motion occurs, for example, between the positions shown in Figures 15 and 16.

According to the invention, a "locking part", more particularly 19 and 20, is to be understood to mean a part which over at least a part of its length yields a locking in the direction R2 in at least one mutual position of the panels. The term "locking part" is therefore not limited to those parts which make contact with each other in the final coupled state, but also to flared parts thereof which may only have a guiding function or even no special function.

Where it is said that such a locking portion leaves laterally the edge at which it is formed, it should be understood broadly that actually the curve defined by this locking portion passes through this edge irrespective of whether the locking portion per se effectively reaches the extreme side of the panel.

When it is stated that a corner point of a panel is in contact with another panel, this need not necessarily be the corner point at the top edge where this contact exists, but it can also be a contact that is situated lower, for example where the profile shapes touch each other when one panel is presented at an angle to another panel. Furthermore, it is clear that with an "upper lip" is meant the lip that is located against the decorative side of a panel. When applied in a ceiling covering, this will of course form the lower lip.

When a panel "can be brought under an upper lip of another panel by shifting in the same plane with the tip of the tooth", it is clear that this also includes small deviations. An example is visible in Figure 12, in which the panel 1A rises slightly before the tip of the tooth comes under the upper lip 39 because it first slides over the locking portion 34.

The invention is by no means limited to the embodiments described as examples, but such panels, the method for installing them, as well as the method for manufacturing them, can be realized in various variants without departing from the scope of the invention.

For example, it is clear that the course of the locking portions 19-20 can be realized in a large number of forms. According to a special possibility, the course can for instance also be step-shaped.

Claims (66)

Panel according to claim 1, characterized in that the aforementioned locking parts (19-20) are designed as parts hooked one behind the other, which can be hooked laterally behind one another via the above-mentioned turning movement (W). Panel according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the coupling parts (13-14) on the third edge (7) and the fourth edge (8) are configured such that the above-mentioned rolling movement (W) can be carried out while the panel ( 1A) that is rotated with its fourth angular point (12) along, more specifically in contact with, the fourth edge (8) of the other panel (1B) is moved. Panel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the coupling parts (13-14) are configured in such a way that the aforementioned turning movement (W) can be carried out while the panel (1A) to be rotated is in its first angular point (9). the proximity of the extension of the first edge (4) of the other panel (1B), preferably at no more than 5 cm from this extension, and more preferably at no more than 2 cm from this extension, and even better with the first vertex (9) in the aforementioned extension. Panel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the aforementioned locking parts (19-20) are designed as guide-forming parts that the panels (1A-1B) as a result of the above-mentioned turning movement (W) from a first state to a bringing a second state, wherein this second state is the state in which both panels are aligned with their first edges (4), and wherein the floor panels (1A-1B) in the second state are more tightly and / or more closely coupled to each other then in the first state. Panel for forming a covering (2), wherein said panel (1) is rectangular, i.e. elongated or square; - wherein this panel (1) has a first pair of opposite edges (3), which define a first edge (4) and a second edge (5) on the panel (1); - wherein this panel (1) has a second pair of opposite edges (6), which define a third edge (7) and a fourth edge (8) on the panel (1), which transverse to the first and the second edge ( 4-5) extend; - wherein the first and fourth edges, the fourth and second edges, the second and third edges and the third and first edges respectively have a first, second, third and fourth angular point (9-10-11-12) on the panel (1) define; - wherein the panel (1) is provided at least at the third edge (7) and fourth edge (8) with coupling parts (13-14) that allow two of such panels to be coupled to each other at these edges (7-8) said coupling parts (13-14) forming a first locking system (15) preventing coupled panels from coming apart in a direction (R1) perpendicular to their plane, and forming a second locking system (16) which is interlocked according to provides a direction (R2) perpendicular to the respective edges (7-8) and in the plane of the panels (1A-1B), with locking portions (19-20) that slide the panels (1A-1B) apart according to the latter direction (R2); - wherein the coupling parts (13-14) on the second pair of opposite edges (6) allow a mutual displacement of the panels (1A-1B) over at least a specific length mainly in the longitudinal direction of these edges (7-8), the said locking portions (19-20) act as guide-forming portions which bring the panels (1A-1B) as a result of the aforementioned displacement of a first state into a second state wherein the floor panels in the second state are more close and / or more closely connected to each other are then coupled in the first state, characterized in that the locking portions (19-20) are configured such that two such panels (1A-1B) can be coupled to each other by means of at least one turning movement (W) of the one panel ( 1A) with respect to the other, one panel (1A) being rotated mainly in the plane of the other panel (1B), more particularly in the plane of the covering (2), this by m means of a revolving movement (W) which is mainly carried out around the first corner point (9) of the panel (1A) to be coupled, this first corner point (9) being in the vicinity of the extension of the first edge (4) of the previous one panel (1B) is situated. Panel according to claim 6, characterized in that the coupling parts (13-14), more specifically the guide-forming parts, are configured on the third edge (7) and the fourth edge (8) such that the above-mentioned rolling movement (W) can be while the panel (1A) being rotated with its fourth angular point (10) is moved along, more specifically in contact with, the fourth edge (8) of the other panel (1B). Panel according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that the coupling parts (13-14), more particularly the guide-forming parts, are configured such that the above-mentioned turning movement (W) can be carried out while the panel (1A) to be rotated is first vertex (9) in the vicinity of the extension of the first edge of the other panel (1) is not more than 5 cm away from this extension, and better still not more than 2 cm from this extension, and even better with the first corner point (9) in the aforementioned extension. Panel for forming a covering (2), wherein said panel (1) is rectangular, i.e. elongated or square; - wherein this panel (1) has a first pair of opposite edges (3), which define a first edge (4) and a second edge (5) on the panel (1); - wherein this panel (1) has a second pair of opposite edges (6), which define a third edge (7) and a fourth edge (8) on the panel (1), which transverse to the first and the second edge ( 4-5) extend; - wherein the first and fourth edges, the fourth and second edges, the second and third edges and the third and first edges respectively have a first, second, third and fourth angular point (9-10-11-12) on the panel (1) define; - wherein the panel (1) is provided at least at the third edge (7) and fourth edge (8) with coupling parts (13-14) that allow two of such panels to be coupled to each other at these edges (7-8) said coupling parts (13-14) forming a first locking system (15) preventing coupled panels from coming apart in a direction (R1) perpendicular to their plane, and forming a second locking system (16) which is interlocked according to provides a direction (R2) perpendicular to the respective edges (7-8) and in the plane of the panels (1A-1B), with locking portions (19-20) that slide the panels (1A-1B) apart according to the latter direction (R2); - wherein the coupling parts (13-14) on the second pair of opposite edges (6) allow a mutual displacement of the panels (1A-1B) over at least a specific length mainly in the longitudinal direction of these edges (7-8), the said locking portions (19-20) act as guide-forming portions which bring the panels (1A-1B) as a result of the aforementioned displacement of a first state into a second state wherein the floor panels in the second state are more close and / or more closely connected to each other are then coupled in the first state; characterized in that the aforementioned coupling parts (13-14) on the third edge (7) and fourth edge (8) are configured such that a new panel (IA) to be installed with the associated locking portion (19) of the third edge (7) can be hooked in via a movement (M) perpendicular to the plane of the panel (1) behind the locking part (20) of the fourth edge (8) of a previous panel (1B), more particularly can be arranged freely behind this, this in a position where the new panel (1A) with its third edge (7) is at least half of its length overlapping with the length of the fourth edge (8) of the previous panel (1). Panel according to claim 9, characterized in that the coupling parts (13-14) at the third and fourth edges (7-8), more particularly the aforementioned locking parts (19-20), are configured such that a new panel to be installed ( 1A) from the aforementioned position can further be coupled to this previous panel (IB) by means of a turning movement (W) essentially in the same plane as the previous panel (1B). Panel according to claim 10, characterized in that the coupling parts (13-14) on the third and fourth edges (7-8), more particularly the aforementioned locking parts (19-20), are configured such that the aforementioned turning movement (W) can be performed while the panel (1) being rotated with its fourth angular point (12) is moved along, more specifically in contact with, the fourth edge (8) of the other panel (1B). Panel according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the coupling parts (13-14) on the third and fourth edges (8), more particularly the aforementioned locking parts, are configured such that the aforementioned turning movement (W) can be carried out while the panel (1A) to be rotated is located with its first corner point (9) in the vicinity of the extension of the first edge (4) of the other panel (1B), preferably not more than 5 cm away from this extension, and better not more than 2 cm from this extension, and even better with the first corner point (9) in the aforementioned extension. Panel for forming a covering (2), wherein this panel (1) is rectangular, i.e. elongated or square; - wherein this panel (1) has a first pair of opposite edges (3), which define a first edge (4) and a second edge (5) on the panel (1); - wherein this panel (1) has a second pair of opposite edges (6), which define a third edge (7) and a fourth edge (8) on the panel (1), which transverse to the first and the second edge ( 4-5) extend; - wherein the first and fourth edges, the fourth and second edges, the second and third edges and the third and first edges respectively have a first, second, third and fourth angular point (9-10-11-12) on the panel (1) define; - wherein the panel (1) is provided at least at the third edge (7) and fourth edge (8) with coupling parts (13-14) that allow two of such panels to be coupled to each other at these edges (7-8) said coupling parts (13-14) forming a first locking system (15) preventing coupled panels from coming apart in a direction (R1) perpendicular to their plane, and forming a second locking system (16) which is interlocked according to provides a direction (R2) perpendicular to the respective edges (7-8) and in the plane of the panels (1A-1B), with locking portions (19-20) that slide the panels (1A-1B) apart according to the latter direction (R2); characterized in that the second locking system is only actively present at a part of the length of these edges on the third and fourth edges (7-8) in that it is actively absent from the second or third angular point over a distance from the fourth and third edges respectively is. Panel according to claim 13, characterized in that the coupling parts (13-14) on the third edge (7) and the fourth edge (8) are configured such that two such panels can be coupled to each other by means of a turning movement ( W) of one panel (1A) with respect to the other, one panel (1A) being rotated mainly in the plane of the other panel (1B), more particularly in the plane of the covering (2), namely such that it moves along its third edge (7) along the fourth edge (8) of the other panel (1B). Panel for forming a covering (2), wherein this panel (1) is rectangular, i.e. elongated or square; - wherein this panel (1) has a first pair of opposite edges (3), which define a first edge (4) and a second edge (5) on the panel (1); - wherein this panel (1) has a second pair of opposite edges (6), which define a third edge (7) and a fourth edge (8) on the panel (1), which transverse to the first and the second edge ( 4-5) extend; - wherein the first and fourth edges, the fourth and second edges, the second and third edges and the third and first edges respectively have a first, second, third and fourth angular point (9-10-11-12) on the panel (1) define; - wherein the panel (1) is provided at least at the third edge (7) and fourth edge (8) with coupling parts (13-14) that allow two of such panels to be coupled to each other at these edges (7-8) said coupling parts (13-14) forming a first locking system (15) preventing coupled panels from coming apart in a direction (R1) perpendicular to their plane, and forming a second locking system (16) which is interlocked according to provides a direction (R2) perpendicular to the respective edges (7-8) and in the plane of the panels (1A-1B), with locking portions (19-20) that slide the panels (1A-1B) apart according to the latter direction (R2); - wherein the coupling parts (13-14) on the second pair of opposite edges (6) allow a mutual displacement of the panels (1A-1B) over at least a specific length mainly in the longitudinal direction of these edges (7-8), the said locking portions (19-20) act as guide-forming portions which bring the panels (1A-1B) as a result of the aforementioned displacement of a first state into a second state wherein the floor panels in the second state are more close and / or more closely connected to each other are then coupled in the first state; characterized in that said locking sections are configured such that two such panels can be coupled to each other by means of a turning movement (W) of one panel (1) relative to the other, one panel (1) being substantially in the plane of the other panel (1), more particularly in the plane of the cladding (2), and that at least one of the locking portions on the third or fourth edge (8) of the panel (1) in the course of the edge flows. Panel according to claim 15, characterized in that the aforementioned coupling parts (13-14) are designed in the form of a tooth (17) and a groove (18), the tooth (17) being arranged on the third edge (7) , while the groove (18) is at the fourth edge (8), the groove (18) being delimited by an upper lip (21) and a lower lip (22), the lower lip (22) of which extends to past the upper lip (21), one of the aforementioned locking portions (20) being located on the aforementioned lower lip (22), said locking portion (20) acting as a guide-forming portion and this guide-forming portion laterally in the fourth edge (8) flows out. 17. Panel for forming a covering (2), wherein this panel (1) has a first pair of opposite edges (3), which has a first edge (4) and a second edge (5) on the panel (1) ) define; - wherein this panel (1) has a second pair of opposite edges (6), which define a third edge (7) and a fourth edge (8) on the panel (1), which transverse to the first and the second edge ( 4-5) extend; - wherein the first and fourth edges, the fourth and second edges, the second and third edges and the third and first edges respectively have a first, second, third and fourth angular point (9-10-11-12) on the panel (1) define; - wherein the panel (1) is provided at least at the third edge (7) and fourth edge (8) with coupling parts (13-14) that allow two of such panels to be coupled to each other at these edges (7-8) said coupling parts (13-14) forming a first locking system (15) preventing coupled panels from coming apart in a direction (R1) perpendicular to their plane, and forming a second locking system (16) which is interlocked according to a direction (R2) perpendicular to the relevant edges (7-8) and in. providing the face of the panels (1A-1B) with locking portions (19-20) preventing the panels (1A-1B) from sliding apart in the latter direction (R2); - wherein the coupling parts (13-14) on the second pair of opposite edges (6) allow a mutual displacement of the panels (1A-1B) over at least a specific length mainly in the longitudinal direction of these edges (7-8), the said locking portions (19-20) act as guide-forming portions which bring the panels (1A-1B) as a result of the aforementioned displacement of a first state into a second state wherein the floor panels in the second state are more close and / or more closely connected to each other are then coupled in the first state; characterized in that at least one of the aforementioned locking portions (19-20) is designed as a guide-forming portion that has a gradient with a gradually changing degree of inclination, this over a distance of at least 1 / 4th of the length of the relevant edge (7-8) ). Panel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of the aforementioned locking sections (19-20), and preferably both, with the possible exception of a walk-in rounding or chamfer, with respect to the course of the actual edge of the panel (1) has a slope (S), respectively, which deviates over the majority of these locking sections (19-20) by less than 20 degrees and even better by less than 10 degrees from the direction in which the third and fourth edges (8) extend. Panel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of the aforementioned locking parts (19-20), and preferably both, has a slope (S) over the major part with respect to the course of the actual edge of the panel (1), however, this slope towards the first edge (4) at this first edge (4) or already from a distance before it becomes zero. Panel according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of the aforementioned locking parts (19-20) is or are designed over the greater part of its length, and preferably both, in the form of an arc and more particularly an arc. The panel according to claim 20, characterized in that the arcuate portion is formed with a radius of the order of 0.5 to 1.25 times the length of the panel (1). Panel according to claim 20 or 21, characterized in that the center point C of the arc is located on the first edge (4) or the extension thereof. Panel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of the aforementioned locking sections (19-20) has a section (53) that is substantially parallel to the third or fourth edge (7-8). Panel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said locking sections (19-20) on the third and fourth edges (7-8), in the fully coupled state, over at least 1/4 of the length of these edges ( 7-8) make contact with each other. Panel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the above-mentioned locking parts (19-20) in the fully coupled state of two panels on the third and fourth edges (7-8) over their full length, with the exception of a possible walk-in rounding or chamfering, making contact, or if one locking part is shorter than the other, make contact with each other at least the full length of the shortest locking part. Panel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the aforementioned locking parts (19-20) are configured such that two of such panels (1A-1B) to be coupled at the start of the aforementioned turning movement (W) with some play in fit together. Panel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the coupling parts (13-14) on the third or fourth edge (7-8) are configured such that they initially fit into each other with play, but when rotating one panel in the other ultimately creates a clearance-free coupling. Panel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the coupling parts (13-14) on the third and fourth edges (7-8) are configured such that so-called bias is obtained in the finally coupled state. Panel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is a panel (1) which is intended to be installed in rows together with other panels (1), the first edge (4) in each case being intended for a previous row of panels to be coupled, the second edge (5) is intended to be coupled to a next row of panels, the third edge (7) is intended to be coupled to a previous panel (1B) in the same row and the fourth edge (8 ) is intended to be connected to a subsequent panel in the same row. Panel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the locking parts (19-20) have a straight part (53) on the third and / or fourth edge (7-8) that is parallel to the edge of the respective panel (1) expires. Panel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the above-mentioned locking parts extend substantially linearly over their entire length, but this at an angle with respect to the relevant upper edge of the panel (1). The panel according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that two or more locking parts (19A-19B) are present on the third edge (7), as well as correspondingly two or more locking parts (20A-20B) on the fourth edge (8). to be. The panel according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that they are elongated panels, wherein said third edge (7) and fourth edge (8) form the short sides of the panels. Panel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the coupling parts (13-14) on the third and fourth edges (7-8) are designed in the form of a tooth (17) and a groove (18), the groove (18) is delimited by a lower lip (22) and an upper lip (21), the locking portions (19-20) being located at the top of the lower lip and the bottom of the tooth (17), respectively. Panel according to claim 34, characterized in that the locking parts (19-20) have contact or locking surfaces (25-26) cooperating with each other, wherein the locking surface of the lower lip (22) extends at least partially and preferably completely beyond the the other end of the upper lip (21). Panel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the coupling parts (13-14) on the third and fourth edges (7-8) can be freely connected one behind the other by a vertical or substantially vertical movement (M), this in a position in which one panel (1) is still rotated relative to the other, after which rotation of the one panel (1A) relative to the other panel (1B) causes a locking in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the panels obtained. Panel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the coupling parts (13-14-29-30) on the third and fourth edges (8) are configured to allow two of these panels to be connected to each other by snapping them together, preferably by sliding one panel (1) substantially in the same plane as the other panel (1) towards this other panel (1), and / or by rotating them laterally into each other, by one panel (1) from a position in which it is rotated out of the plane of the other panel (1) with its third edge (7) along the fourth edge (8) of the other panel (1) and then present it up to rotate the face of the other panel (1). 38. Panel according to one of the preceding claims; characterized in that coupling parts (29-30) are present on the first pair of opposite edges (3) which form at least a first locking system (31) whereby coupled panels (1) are prevented from coming apart in a direction perpendicular to their plane. Panel according to claim 38, characterized in that the coupling parts (29-30) on the first pair of opposite edges also form a second locking system (32) which in a mutual locking in a direction perpendicular to the respective edges (4-5) and providing in the plane of the panels, with locking portions (33-34) preventing the panels (1) from sliding apart in the latter direction. Panel according to claim 38 or 39, characterized in that the coupling parts (29-30) on the first pair of opposite edges are formed as straight-through profiles that extend parallel along the respective edges. Panel according to one of claims 38 to 40, characterized in that the coupling parts (29-30) on the first pair of opposite edges (3) are designed in the form of a tooth (35) and a groove (36) provided with are of the aforementioned locking portions (33-34), wherein the tooth (35) and the groove (36) are designed such that when two such panels are moved with their first and second edges towards each other in the same plane, the tooth (35 ) automatically engages at least partially in the groove (36), more particularly the tip of the tooth automatically engages a lip that defines the top of the groove (36). The panel according to claim 41, characterized in that the groove (36) is on the second edge (5) and the tooth (35) on the first, while also the coupling parts (13-14) on the third and fourth edges ( 7-8) are essentially designed as a tooth (17) and groove (18), the tooth (17) of which is located on the third edge (7) and the groove (18) on the fourth edge (8). Panel according to claim 41 or 42, characterized in that the groove (36) belonging to the first pair of opposite edges (3) is bounded by an upper lip (39) and a lower lip (40), the lower lip being laterally extends beyond the upper lip. Panel according to claim 43, characterized in that the groove (36) is provided with a locking portion (34) in the form of a locking surface (38) which is at least partially in the portion of the lower lip that extends laterally beyond the upper lip is situated. Panel according to one of claims 38 to 44, characterized in that the coupling parts (29-30) are configured at the first and second edges such that they allow two of these panels (1) to be connected to each other by joining them together snapping, preferably by sliding one panel (1) substantially in the same plane as the other panel (1) to this other panel (1), and / or by rotating them laterally in each other, through the one panel (1) ) from a position where it is rotated out of the plane of the other panel (1) to present its first edge (4) along the second edge (5) of the other panel (1) and then to rotate in the plane of the other panel (1). The panel according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the coupling parts (13-14; 29-30) at least on the third and fourth edges and, and preferably on all four edges of the panel (1), in one piece panel (1), and preferably consist of profiles milled in the edge. Panel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is a panel (1) with a core made of a material from the group of MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) and HDF (High Density Fiberboard). Panel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is a floor panel. The panel according to claim 48, characterized in that it is a plate-shaped floor panel from the group of: panels with a printed decor on the surface, more specifically laminate panels, and even more special DPL panels (Direct Pressed Laminate) or direct printed panels; veneer flooring; composite parquet, also called "engineered wood"; solid parquet; plate-shaped wood-based panels with a top layer made of a different material. 50. Method for installing panels, more particularly for forming a covering (2), said covering (2) being composed of a plurality of panels (1; 1A-1B), characterized in that panels are used for this purpose which are connected to two or more edges are provided with coupling parts (13-14) that allow such panels to be coupled to each other at these edges, said coupling parts (13-14) forming a first locking system whereby coupled panels are prevented from coming apart according to a direction perpendicular to their plane, and form a second locking system that provides mutual interlocking in a direction perpendicular to the respective edges and in the plane of the respective panels, with locking portions (19-20) that slide the panels according to the latter apart direction and wherein the coupling parts (13-14) of at least two edges are configured such that two such panels through midd each of these coupling parts (13-14) can be coupled to each other by means of a turning movement (W) of one panel (1A) relative to the other, one panel (1A) being substantially in the plane of the other panel (1B) is rotated, and the method consists in that the covering (2) is formed by joining at least a number of such panels together, at least at said two edges via a turning movement (W) of the panels as mentioned above be connected to each other. A method according to claim 50, characterized in that panels are used for this purpose that are rectangular, i.e. elongated or square; having a first pair of opposite edges (3) defining a first edge (4) and a second edge (5) on such panel (1); having a second pair of opposite edges (6) defining a third and a fourth edge (7-8) on such panel (1) extending transversely to the first and second edges (4-5); wherein the first and fourth edges, the fourth and second edges, the second and third edges and the third and first edges define a first, second, third and fourth angular points (9-10-11-12) on the panel (1), respectively ; and wherein such panel (1) is provided at least on the third and fourth edges (8) with said coupling parts (13-14) allowing two of such panels to be coupled to each other by means of said turning movement (W) of the one panel (1) relative to the other, wherein when coupling a panel (1) with its third edge (7) to the fourth edge (8) of another panel (1) than is realized by the first panel (1) ) with its third edge along the fourth edge of the other panel (1) to move during the aforementioned turning movement (W). A method according to claim 51, characterized in that when realizing the aforementioned turning movement (W) the relevant panel (1A) is moved with its fourth angular point (12) along the fourth edge (8) of the other panel (1B), preferably in contact with this edge. A method according to claim 51 or 52, characterized in that the aforementioned turning movement (W) is carried out while the panel (1A) to be rotated is situated with its first corner point (9) in the vicinity of the extension of the first edge of the other panel (1B), preferably at no more than 5 cm from this extension, and more preferably at no more than 2 cm from this extension, and even better with the first angular point (9) in the aforementioned extension. Method according to one of claims 51 to 53, characterized in that the panels are installed in successive rows, the panels intended to be surrounded by other panels being coupled with their first edge (4) to a previous row of panels , are coupled with their second edge (5) to a next row of panels, are coupled with their third edge (7) to a previous panel (1) in the same row and to their fourth edge (8) with a next panel (1) in the same row. The method according to claim 54, characterized in that when performing said rolling movement (W) by means of one of the aforementioned panels, this panel (1) with its first corner point (9) is kept in contact with the second edge (5) ) of a panel (1) located in the previous row, such that this edge acts as a support point for the angular point during the winding movement (W). A method according to claim 54 or 55, characterized in that panels are used which are also provided at their first and second edges with coupling parts (29-30) which form a first locking system whereby coupled panels are prevented from coming apart in a direction perpendicular to each other on their plane, as well as a second locking system which provides for mutual locking in a direction perpendicular to the respective edges and in the plane of the panels, with locking parts preventing the panels from sliding apart according to the latter direction, whereby coupling parts via these (29-30) a connection is made between the first and second edges of two respective panels mainly after the third edge (7) of such panel (1) by means of the aforementioned turning movement (W) on the fourth edge (8) of an adjacent panel (1) is coupled. Method according to claim 56, characterized in that coupling parts (29-30) are used for the first and second edges in the form of a tooth (35) and a groove (36) which are provided with the aforementioned locking parts, said tooth and this groove is designed such that when two of such panels are moved with their first and second edges and towards each other in the same plane, the tooth automatically comes to sit at least partially in the groove, more particularly the tip of the tooth (35) automatically comes under a lip (39) that delimits the top of the groove (36). The method according to claim 57, characterized in that, when performing said revolving movement (W), at least during a part of this revolving movement (W), the above-mentioned tip of the tooth (35) at the location of the first angular point below said above-mentioned point lip is brought and held. The method according to claim 58, characterized in that, when performing said rolling movement (W), said tooth tip (35) systematically covers the full length of the first edge (4) below said lip (39) the panel (1) located in the previous row is brought. Method according to one of claims 56 to 59, characterized in that panels are used which can be mutually attached to their first edge (4) and second edge (5) by a panel (1) from a position where it is out the face of another panel (1) is rotated with its first edge (4) along the second edge (5) of the other panel (1) and then rotated in the plane of the other panel (1). The method according to claim 60, characterized in that such panel (1) is connected with its first edge (4) to the second edge (5) of a panel (1) in the previous row by the somewhat out of the plane of the cladding (2) and then turn it back so that a connection is made, the previous panel (1) being in the same row and being coupled with its fourth edge to the third edge of the last panel (1A), during this rotation is briefly swung back and forth with it. Method according to any of claims 50 to 61, characterized in that it is used to form a covering (2) in the form of a floor covering, the panels consisting of floor panels; and that when performing the aforementioned turning movement (W) a new panel (1A) to be installed is shifted at least partially over the substrate. 63. Method according to one of claims 50 to 61, characterized in that panels are used according to one of claims 1 to 49. 64, - Method for manufacturing panels, wherein these panels are provided on at least two opposite edges with coupling parts (13-14) allowing two of such panels (1A-1B) to be coupled to each other at these edges, said coupling parts (13-14) forming a first locking system (15) preventing coupled panels from separating to come in a direction perpendicular to their plane, and to form a second locking system (16) that provides mutual interlocking in a direction perpendicular to the respective edges and in the plane of the panels, with locking portions (19-20) extending it prevent sliding of the panels according to the latter direction; wherein the coupling parts (13-14) at these edges permit mutual displacement of the panels over at least a specific length mainly in the longitudinal direction of these edges, wherein the aforementioned locking parts (19-20) function as guide-forming parts which the panels (1A-) 1B) as a result of the aforementioned displacement from a first state to a second state in which the floor panels in the second state are more tightly and / or more closely coupled to each other than in the first state; and wherein at least one of the guide-forming portions along its longitudinal direction is made with a gradient that deviates from the corresponding actual edge of the panel (1), characterized in that at least the above-mentioned guide-forming portion, with the different gradient, is realized by means of a rotating cutter (55; 57), wherein the cutter (55; 57) and the panel (1) perform a relative movement and the axis of the cutter according to a view perpendicular to the plane of the panel (1), during the major part of the milling process for forming the respective guide-forming portion, forms an angle (A) with the direction of the actual edge of the panel (1) that deviates from 90 degrees. The method according to claim 64, characterized in that said angle (A) is kept substantially constant. A method according to claim 65, characterized in that said angle is adjusted such that the intersection of the plane in which the cutter rotates and the plane of the panel (1) corresponds or substantially corresponds to an average slope of the guide-forming portion. A method according to claim 64, characterized in that a guide-forming section is formed with a gradient that deviates from a straight line, and that the said angle is adjusted as a function of the above-mentioned course during milling of the guide-forming section. The method according to any of claims 64 to 67, characterized in that such a conductive portion is realized in an arc-shaped curve. 69. Method according to one of claims 64 to 68, characterized in that panels are realized according to one of claims 1 to 49. 70. Panel, more particularly floor panel (1), characterized in that it is realized according to one of claims 64 to 69.