CA2259839A1 - Laminate floor joinery clip and method and system of using same - Google Patents
Laminate floor joinery clip and method and system of using same Download PDFInfo
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- CA2259839A1 CA2259839A1 CA 2259839 CA2259839A CA2259839A1 CA 2259839 A1 CA2259839 A1 CA 2259839A1 CA 2259839 CA2259839 CA 2259839 CA 2259839 A CA2259839 A CA 2259839A CA 2259839 A1 CA2259839 A1 CA 2259839A1
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Abstract
A joinery clip for joining adjacent panels or floor sections that have been positioned in abutting relationship.
The panels and floor sections have grooves or channels formed along and in close proximity to the edges of their bottom surfaces. The joinery clip comprises a body portion, a first flange section extending away from the body portion, and a second flange section spaced from the first flange section and extending away from the body portion. The first and second flange sections each have a barb configured to be received in the channel of one of the adjacent panels or floor sections.
Each of the barbs has a tang portion that prevents ready removal of the barb when received in the channel of one of the adjacent panels or floor sections. The invention is further directed to a method of installing a floor.
The panels and floor sections have grooves or channels formed along and in close proximity to the edges of their bottom surfaces. The joinery clip comprises a body portion, a first flange section extending away from the body portion, and a second flange section spaced from the first flange section and extending away from the body portion. The first and second flange sections each have a barb configured to be received in the channel of one of the adjacent panels or floor sections.
Each of the barbs has a tang portion that prevents ready removal of the barb when received in the channel of one of the adjacent panels or floor sections. The invention is further directed to a method of installing a floor.
Description
LAMINATE FLOOR JOINERY CLIP AND
METHOD AND SYSTEM OF USING SAME
Field Of The Invention The present invention relates in general to a joinery clip for joining adjacent panel or floor sections in abutting relationship, a panel system of adjacently positioned panels secured in abutting relationship, and a flooring system including a plurality of flooring planks connected in abutting relationship. Particularly, the present invention is directed to a joinEry clip having a body portion, a first flange section extending away from the body portion, and a second flange section spaced from the first flange section and extending away from the body portion. The first and second flange sections each have a barb configured to be received in a channel of one of the adjacent floor sections being joined.
The barbs have a tang portion that prevents ready removal of the barb when received in the channel.
The panel system of the invention has at least two panels positioned in adj-acent abutting relationship, each panel having a top side and a bottom side. Each panel has at least one extending groove formed in the bottom side of the panel. Additionally, the panel system has a clip for joining the adjacently positioned panels that abut each other edge to edge. The clip is similar to the joinery clip described 6137163.1 1169B 1127C 97379044 _ 1 above. The barb of the first flange section is engaged in a groove of one of the adjacently positioned panels and the barb of the second flange section is engaged in a groove of the other of the adjacently positioned panels. The barbs have a tang portion that prevents ready removal of the barbs from the grooves.
The flooring system of the invention is comprised of at least two flooring planks disposed in adjacent abutting relationship and a clip for connecting the flooring planks.
The flooring planks each have a top surface and a bottom surface and include at least one groove extending in the bottom surface. The body portion of the clip is disposed against the seam formed between the two flooring planks. The barb of the first flange section of the clip is engaged in a groove of one of the flooring planks and the barb of the second flange section of the clip is engaged in a groove of the other of the flooring planks.
The present invention is further directed to a method of installing a floor using a joinery clip to connect adjacent pieces of flooring material.
D scription Of Related Art A variety of materials are available for use as floorings. Several of these materials are sold in the form of panels or planks including laminate and natural wood materials. A floor of this type may generally be installed by laying appropriately sized panels of flooring material side by side and connecting the panels to each other and, sometimes, 6237463.1 1l698 1237C 97379044 ~ 2 to the underlying surface onto which the floor is being installed.
Frequently, flooring material comprised of panels are connected together by a ~tongue and groove" method. The panels employed in this process typically are narrow and rectangular in shape having a length substantially greater . than their width, but can be square in shape and in some instances triangularly shaped. Most commonly, the two panels are positioned in adjacent abutting relationship and connected together along their lengths. Along one lengthwise side of a panel there is a protrusion formed by the panel material commonly referred to as a "tongue". Along the other lengthwise side of the same panel there is a groove or recess formed into the panel material. When two such panels are laid next to each other along their lengthwise sides, the tongue side of one panel fits into the groove side of the other panel. The fitting of the tongue side of the first panel into the groove side of the second panel forms a first physical connection between the two panels. The tongue and groove arrangement aligns the top surfaces of the panels.
Likewise formed panels can be similarly added and connected to the first two panels until a desired area is covered by the connected panels to form a floor. The length of the panels can be adjusted to fit the size of the room in which the floor is being installed without losing the tongue and groove mechanism of connecting the panels.
Typically, a second physical connection is made at the seams between adjacent panels by using glue, mastic's 6137463.1 1l698 1227C 97379011 screws, or nails. Glue is also used to seal and waterproof the seams.
The installation of a floor having panels fitted together by the tongue and groove method and sealed with glue generally requires additional steps. For example, the first three rows of panels of the floor must not only be glued, but _ clamped together to establish a straight line. Additional panels are also glued at the seams, but do not require clamping. While the glue is necessary to seal the seams created between panels by the tongue and~groove connections, excess glue is extruded through the seam onto the surface of the panels. Consequently, a significant amount of time is needed to clean the glue off of the decorative surface of the panels. If not removed, excess glue creates a haze on the surface of the floor and is cosmetically undesirable.
In addition to the clamping and cleaning steps, floors formed by panels that are glued together require expansion joints approximately every twenty feet. A wood floor comprised of panels that are glued together essentially forms a solid structure. The expansion joints compensate for the natural expansion and contraction of the wood. A raised molding is installed as an expansion joint every twenty feet in a glued floor. As with the gluing step, the installation of expansion joints increases the overall installation time for the floor.
As the floor is used, the individual panels will undergo normal wear and tear. If the seams between the panels are sealed with glue, replacement of individual panels that 6237163.l 11696 1227C 97379D14 become damaged is more difficult because the glue line must be broken. The floor is also more difficult to disassemble when glue is used. Consequently, there are limitations associated with the use of glue to seal the seams formed between adjacent panels.
In view of the above, there remains a need for a device that can be used to connect adjacent floor panels together without needing glue to create a seal at the seams.
Further, there remains a need for a panel system including a series of laminate or wood panels connected together in a manner that does not require glue, clamps, or expansion joints and the deficiencies associated with their use. There also remains a need for a flooring system comprised of panels connected together without the use of glue to seal the seams between the panels.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The purpose and advantages of the invention will be set forth in and apparent from the description and drawings that follow, as well as will be learned by practice of the invention. Additional advantages of the invention will be realized and attained by the elements of the apparatus, systems, and method particularly pointed out in the appended claims.
Advantages of the present invention include elimination of the need to use glue to seal the seams formed between the individual panels or planks used to form a floor.
Therefore, the need to clean excess glue from those seams is 6I37163.1 l1698 1227C 97379011 ~ 5 eliminated while still maintaining a tight joint between the panels or planks. An additional advantage of the present invention is a reduction in the time needed to install the floor because it is no longer necessary to remove excess glue.
Damaged panels or planks are more easily replaced and entire floors are more easily disassembled using the present invention. The present invention may be used in conjunction with the traditional "tongue and groove" method of connecting floor panels or planks. To achieve these and other advantages and in accordance with the purpose of the invention, as embodied and broadly described herein, the present invention is directed to a joinery clip, a panel system, a flooring system, and a method of installing a floor.
The joinery clip has a body portion, a first flange section, and a second flange section. The first flange section extends away from the body portion. The second flange section is spaced from the first flange section and also extends away from the body portion. Both the first and second flange sections have a barb that is ccynfigured to be received in a channel of a flooring section. Each flooring section, whether a panel or plank, has at least one channel formed in the bottom surface. The channels are formed in proximity to the edges of the flooring sections. The barbs of the flange sections of the joinery clip of the invention each have a tang portion that prevents ready removal of the barbs when they are received within the channels of the flooring sections.
The panel system of the invention has at least two panels and a clip, similar to the joinery clip described 6237163.1 l1698 1327C 97379041 above) for connecting the panels together. The panels are positioned adjacent to and abutting each other along their edges. The panels have a top side and a bottom side, the bottoms sides of each of the panels having a groove formed therein. The barb of the first flange section of the joinery clip is engaged in the groove of one of the panels and the barb of the second flange section of the joinery clip is engaged in the groove of the other of the panels. The tang portions of the barbs prevent ready removal of the barbs from the respective grooves.
The grooves formed in the bottom sides of the panels of the panel system are formed along the lengths of the panels. More than one groove can be formed in the bottom side of each panel. Generally, if there is more than one groove formed in the bottom side of a panel, the additional grooves are formed along the other edges of the panel. More than one joinery clip can be used to connect or join the adjacent panels where they abut each other edge to edge.
The flooring system of the invention has at least two flooring planks and at least one clip for connecting the flooring planks together. The clips are similar to the joinery clips described herein. The flooring planks are positioned adjacent each other so that their edges abut. Each of the flooring planks has a top surface and a bottom surface, the bottom surface having an extending groove. The flooring planks also each have two length sides and two width sides.
One of the length sides has a recess formed into it and the other of the length sides has a protrusion formed on it. The 6237163.1 1l698 1227C 97379044 _ 7 protrusion is sized to complement the recess. The flooring planks are first joined by fitting the protrusion along the length of one of the flooring planks into the recess formed in one of the lengths of the other flooring plank. In order to securely connect the two flooring planks together, the body portion of the clip is disposed against the seam formed between the abutting edges of the flooring planks. The barb of the first flange section of the clip is engaged in the groove of one of the flooring planks. The barb of the second flange section is engaged in the groove of the other flooring plank. The barbs of the clip have tang portions to prevent ready removal of the barbs from the grooves of the flooring planks.
The grooves formed in the bottom surfaces of the flooring planks can be formed along the length of the flooring planks. Typically, in the flooring system, the length sides of the flooring planks will abut each other, therefore, the grooves in which the clip is engaged are along the length sides. More than one groove can be formed in the bottom surfaces of the flooring planks. Multiple grooves permit connections to adjacent flooring planks on more than one side.
If multiple grooves are used, they are formed along the edges of the flooring planks. The flooring planks can be made of laminate, natural wood, or another suitable flooring material.
The flooring planks can be pretreated to have water-proof or other desirable properties.
The objects and advantages of the present invention are further achieved by a method of installing a floor. The 6237463.l 1169B 1227C 97379044 _ 8 method of installing a floor includes the steps of positioning at least two floor panels, fitting the floor panels together along their lengths by a "tongue and groove" arrangement, selecting a number of joinery clips, disposing the joinery clips, and engaging the joinery clips into the floor panels.
The floor panels are positioned adjacent to each other so that their edges abut each other. The floor panels each have a top surface and a bottom surface, the bottom surfaces having grooves formed along each side of the floor panels. Each floor panel has two lengthwise sides. Oae of the lengthwise sides has a recess formed therein and the other lengthwise side has a protrusion formed on it. The protrusion is sized to fit into the recess of a similarly configured adjoining floor panel. When positioned next to each other, the recess side of one panel is adjacent to the protrusion side of the other panel. The method includes a step of fitting the protrusion side of the one floor panel into the recess side of the other floor panel.
The flooring panels are maintained in abutting adjacent position by using a sufficient number of joinery clips to securely connect the abutting edges of the flooring panels. The joinery clips have a body portion, a first flange section, and a second flange section. Both the first and second flange sections extend away from the body portion. The second flange section is spaced from the first flange section.
Both of the flange sections include a barb and each of the barbs has a tang portion.
637a63.1 l1698 127C 9737901t The joinery clips are disposed such that the body portions of the clips are positioned against the seam formed by the abutting edges of the adjacent floor panels. With the body portion spanning the seam formed between the two floor panels, the barb of the first flange section of the clip is engaged in the groove in the bottom surface of one of the floor panels. Next, the barb of the second flange section is engaged in the groove of the other floor panel. The floor panels are connectEd together by~the joinery clips being engaged in the grooves formed in the bottom surfaces of the floor panels.
Additional floor panels can be connected together using the joinery clips. Floor panels can be connected together along any of their edges because each edge of a floor panel has a groove formed in its bottom surface. A sufficient number of floor panels are connected together in a desired pattern to form a floor covering the desired area.
It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and provided for purposes of explanation only, and are not restrictive. of the invention, as claimed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate the preferred embodiment of the invention, and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.
6T37463.1 1i698 1227C 97379044 Fig. 1 is a perspective view of an example of the joinery clip of the present invention.
Fig. 2 ie a perspective view of another example of the joinery clip of the present invention.
Fig. 3 is a top view of the joinery clip shown in Fig. 1.
Fig. 4 is a side view of the joinery clip shown in Fig. 1.
Fig. 5 is an end view of the joinery clip shown in Fig. 1.
Fig. 6 is a perspective view of an example of the panel system of the invention.
Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the bottom side of a panel that can be used for the panel system of the invention.
Fig. 8 is a perspective view of an example of the flooring system of the invention.
Fig. 9 is a perspective view of an additional example of the flooring system of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Reference will now be made in detail to the present preferred embodiments of the joinery clip, panel system, and flooring system of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference characters will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. However, where it is needed to provide a clearer description of the invention, different reference characters are used to refer to 677163.1 1l698 1ZZ7C 9737901~ - 1 1 -like parts. The method of the present invention will be described in conjunction with the detailed description of the joinery clip and the flooring system for clarity.
An exemplary embodiment of the joinery clip of the present invention is shown in Fig. 1 and designated generally by reference character 100. The joinery clip 100 is comprised of a body portion 110, a first flange section 120 and a second flange section 130. The body portion 110 is preferably of flat dimension so that when the joinery clip 100 is used to join adjacent panels or floor sections, the body portion 1l0 does not contribute significantly to the thickness of the panel system or flooring system. The dimensions of the body portion 110 are dependent upon the span across which the joinery clip 100 must join the adjacent panels or flooring sections.
Extending away from the body portion 110 is a first flange section 120. At the opposite side of and also extending away from the body portion 110 is a second flange section l30. The first flange section l20 and second flange section l30 extend far enough away from the body portion 110 to be engaged in a groove or charnel of a panel or flooring section. The first flange section 120 and second flange section 130 are spaced a predetermined distance apart to be able to join two adjacent panels or flooring sections.
The first flange section 120 has a barb l40 and the second flange section 130 has a barb 150. The barbs, 140 and l50, are configured to be received in a channel or groove -formed in the bottom sides of the adjacent panels or flooring 6237463.l 1l698 1227C 973790t4 - 1 2 sections. Barb 140 has a tang portion 160 and barb 150 has a tang portion 170 designed to prevent the ready removal of the barbs from the channels or grooves into Which they have been inserted. In Fig. 1, the barbs, 140 and 150, are directed outward away from the body portion 110. Another example of the joinery clip 100 of the invention is depicted in Fig. 2.
In Fig. 2, the barbs, 140 and 150, are directed inward toward the body portion 110. As with the joinery clip 100 dzpicted in Fig. 1, the tang portions, 160 and 170, of the barbs, 140 and 150, shown in Fig. 2 prevent the ready removal of the barbs from the channels or grooves into which they have been inserted. Because the tang portions, 160 and 170, grip the interior of the channel, the barbs, 140 and 150, must be removed from the channels by using a screwdriver or similar implement.
The barbs, 140 and 15Q, depicted in Figs..1 andJ2, are continuous along the entire lengths of the first flange section 120 and the second flange section 130, respectively.
In another embodiment of the joinery clip 100 of the invention, the barbs extend only along part of the length of the flange sections. Further, it is also possible to have multiple barbs spaced intermittently along the lengths of the flange sections. Regardless of the number or lengths of the barbs, the barbs are configured to be received in channels and they have tang portions to prevent ready removal from the channels.
Fig. 3 shows a top view of the joinery clip 100 depicted in Fig. 1. The planar dimension of the body portion 6237163.1 1l698 1227C 97379011 - 1 3 -i 110 is visible in~Fig. 3. The barb 140 of the first flange section 120 and the barb 150 of the second flange section 130 are shown extending vertically downward away from the body portion 110. In this embodiment, the barbs, 140 and 150, are angled downward in order to be received in the channels of adjacent floor sections. Fig. 4 is a side view of the joinery clip 100 depicted in Fig. 1. In the side view of the joinery clip 100, the second flange section 130 is visible. Also visible are the tang portion 170 and barb 150 of the second flange section 130. The tang portion 170 is configured to prevent ready removal of the barb l50 from a groove or channel into which the second flange section has been inserted.
Fig. 5 depicts an end view of the joinery clip 100 depicted in Fig. 1. The relative dimensions of the body portion 110, the first flange section 120 and the second flange section 130 are visible. The width of the first flange section 120, inciuding~the barb 140 and-tang portion 16D, is approximately the same as the width of the channel into which the first flange section 120 will be inserted. Likewise, the width of the second flange section 130, including the barb 150 and tang portion 170, is approximately the same as the width of the channel formed in the bottom side of the adjacent panel or flooring section into which the second flange section 130 will be inserted.
The joinery clip 100 of the invention can be made of aluminum) plastic, or other suitable material sufficiently strong to connect adjacent panels or flooring sections. The joinery clip material is selected to be compatible with the 6237t63.1 11698 1227C 97379014 - 1 4 i panel or flooring material and with the intended use of the panel system or flooring system.
An exemplary embodiment of the panel system of the invention is depicted in Fig. 6. While the panel system depicted in Fig. 6 is exemplary of the panel system of the invention, the panel system of the invention is not limited to two panels; additional panels may be used as needed for the desired application.
The panel system 200 is comprised of at least two panels and at least one clip for joining adjacently positioned panels. The panel system 200 includes a number of clips sufficient to securely join the panels. In Fig. 6, a first panel 210 is positioned in adjacent abutting relationship to a second panel 220. As depicted, the panels are adjacently abutting each other when they are positioned such that their sides are in contact and a seam is formed between them. The panels, 210 and 220, each have a top side, 230 and 235, respectively, and a bottom side, not visible in Fig. 6. Each panel, 210 and 220, also has a recess '(groove) 260 formed into one of its sides and a protrusion (tongue) 265 formed on the opposite side. In Fig. 6, the protrusion 265 of the second panel 220 is disposed within the recess 260 of the first panel 210. Additional panels can be positioned adjacent to the exposed sides of the panels, 210 and 220. A protrusion of another panel could be disposed within the recess 260 of the second panel 220 and the protrusion 265 of the first panel 210 could be disposed within a recess of another panel.
6Z37163.1 11698 127C 97379014 - 1 5 Each panel, 210 and 220, also has a groove or channel, 240 and 250, respectively, formed in its bottom side.
The grooves, 240 and 250, either can extend the entire length of the panels, 210 and 220, or they can only be formed at the locations in the bottom sides where it is necessary to insert a clip 100. In Fig. 6, the grooves, 240 and 250, extend the length of panels, 210 and 220, as depicted by the broken lines. The configuration of the grooves, 240 and 250, provides a snug fit with the barbs of the clip 100. The depth of the grooves, 240 and 250, is selected to provide good engagement with the barbs. Preferably, the depth of the grooves, 240 and 250, is less than one half the height of the panels, 210 and 220. If the grooves, 240 and 250, are too deep, the structure of the panels, 210 and 220, is weakened.
The panel system 200 also comprises a clip 100 for joining the adjacently positioned panels, 210 and 220. The clip 100 is similar to the joinery clip depicted in Figs. 1-5 and described above. The body portion 1l0 of the clip 100 spans across the seam formed between the bottom sides of the adjacent abutting panels, 210 and 220. The body portion 110 also extends a short distance along the seam. The first flange section 120 of the clip 100 is engaged in the groove 240 of the first panel 210. The barb of the first flange section 120 is configured to fit within the groove 240.
Similarly, the second flange section 130 of the clip 100 is engaged in the groove 250 of the second panel 220. The barb of the second flange section l30 is configured to fit within the groove 250. The tang portions of the barbs of the flange 6Z37163.1 1169A 1227C 9737901~ - 1 6 -sections engage the sidewalls of the grooves, 240 and 250, and prevent ready removal of the flange sections from the grooves, 240 and 250. The tang portion is formed at an angle with the top of the barb. The width at the top of the barb is narrower than the width at the bottom, where the tang portion is located. The increasing width of the barb permits easy insertion of the flange section into the groove but resists removal of the flange section from the groove.
Not visible, but shown by broken lines in Fig. 6, the grooves, 240 and 250, are formed through the full length of the sides of the panels, 210 and 220, that are adjacently abutting each other. Therefore, more than one clip 100 can be used to join the panels, 210 and 220. In order to reduce the span between the panels, 210 and 220, that must be covered by the body portion 110 of the clip, the grooves, 240 and 250, preferably are formed near the edges of the panels, 210 and 220.
In another embodiment of the panel system of the invention, the panel 2l0 has more than one groove formed in its bottom side for receiving clips. The plurality of grooves pernrits the panel 210 to be joined to adjacent panels on each of its sides. Fig. 7 depicts the bottom side 270 of a panel 210. In addition to groove 240, the bottom side 270 has additional grooves, 242, 244, and 246, formed into it. The plurality of grooves, 240, 242, 244, and 246, permits the panel 210 to be joined with adjacent abutting panels on each of its sides. More than one clip may be engaged in each of the grooves, 240, 242, 244, and 246, to join the panel 210 6Z37463.1 11698 1227C 97379044 ~ 1 7 with adjacent abutting panels. The clips 100 can be engaged at the ends or in the middles of the grooves, 240, 242, 244, and 246. The number of clips used is dependent on the dimensions of the panels 210 being joined and the magnitude of separating force to which the panels will be exposed. With some panel systems 200, it may be possible to reduce the number of clips by increasing the length of the body portion l10 of the clips 100.
The panel 210 has edges 280 A, B, C, and D that define its perimeter. In order to reduce the size of the clips needed to join like-sized panels 2l0, the grooves, 240, 242, 244, and 246, are formed parallel to and near the edges 280 A, 8, C, and D. However, a sufficient portion of the body of the panel 210 should be maintained between the edges 280 A, H, C, and D and the grooves, 240, 242, 244, and 246, to prevent the panel 210 from breaking and to provide a strong connection between panels.
The panel system of the invention may be comprised of as many panels as are necessary to form the desired area of connected panels. Such a system of panels may be used for a variety of purposes. For example, the panel system may be used to form a wall covering, a partition, a sound barrier, a ceiling, or a floor. The material out of which the panels are constructed is selected to suit the purpose of the panel system, so long as it is capable of having a groove formed therein. For example, if the panel system is to be used for a decorative-type covering, the top side may be patterned. If - -6237163.1 1169B 1227C 97379011 - 1 8 -the panel system is to act as a sound barrier, a sound absorbing material may be used to fabricate the panels.
The present invention also encompasses a flooring system. An exemplary embodiment of the flooring system of the invention is depicted in Fig. 8. However, the flooring system of the invention is not limited to two flooring planks. A
plurality of flooring planks may be used in the flooring system of the invention so that the resulting floor surface covers the desired area.
The flooring system 300 comprises at least two flooring Blanks, 310 and 320, and at least one connecting clip 100. While the flooring planks, 310 and 320, may be of any dimension, those depicted in Fig. 8 are of a length substantially longer than their width. The sides of the flooring planks, 310 and 320, are in adjacent abutting relationship to each other forming a seam 368. The first flooring plank 310 has a top surface 330 and a bottom surface, not visible in Fig. 8. The second flooring plank 320 has a top surface 335 and a bottom surface, also not visible in Fig.
8. The first flooring plank 310 has a groove 340 formed through the length of its bottom surface; likewise, the second flooring plank 320 has a groove 350 formed through the length of its bottom surface. Though the bottom surfaces are not visible, the hidden appearances of the grooves, 340 and 350, formed through the lengths of the flooring planks, 310 and 320, are depicted by broken lines. As with the panel system of the invention, the grooves, 340 and 350, may either extend the entire length of the flooring planks, 310 and 320, or they 6237163.l l1698 1227C 97379044 - 1 9 -may only be formed at those points along the lengths where clips will be engaged.
Each flooring plank, 310 and 320, may employ a "tongue and groove" arrangement. The tongue and groove arrangement generally includes a recess (groove) formed into one side and a protrusion (tongue) formed on the other side of a flooring plank. The protrusion is sized to fit into the recess formed in the side of an adjacent flooring plank. In Fig. 8, each of the flooring planks, 310 and 320, has a recess 360 along one side and a protrusion 365 along the opposite side. The protrusion 365 of the second flooring plank 320 is disposed or inserted within the recess 360 of the first flooring plank 310. The protrusion side of an additional flooring plank can be inserted within the exposed recess 360 of the second flooring plank 320. Likewise, the exposed protrusion 365 of the first flooring plank 310 may be inserted within the recess of an additional flooring plank. With flooring planks that are rectangular in shape, the tongue and groove are generally disposed on opposite lengthwise sides.
With square flooring planks, each plank generally includes either a11 tongues or a11 grooves on each side. The appropriate plank is then selected depending on whether a tongue or a groove side is exposed.
The clip 100 of the flooring system 300 may be used in conjunction with the tongue and groove arrangement between flooring planks, 310 and 320. When it is used, the tongue and groove arrangement keeps the top surfaces of the flooring planks aligned.
6237163.l 1l698 1227C 973790t4 - 2 O
The clip 100 of the flooring system 300 is similar to the joinery clip depicted in Figs. 1-5. The body portion 110 of the clip 100 is disposed against the seam 368 formed between the abutting flooring planks, 310 and 320. The barb 140 of the clip 100 is engaged in the groove 340 of the first flooring plank 310. The other barb 150 of the clip 100 is engaged in the groove 350 of the second flooring plank 320.
The tang portions of the barbs prevent the ready removal of the barbs, 140 azd 150, from the grooves, 340 and 350.
while mostly hidden in Fig. 8, the grooves, 340 and 350, can extend along the entire length of the flooring planks, 310 and 320. The extension of the grooves. 340 and 350, is depicted by broken lines in Fig_ 8. In order to minimize the distance spanned by the body portion 1l0 of the clip 100, the grooves, 340 and 350, are formed proximately to the abutting edges of the flooring planks, 310 and 320. More than one clip 100 can be used to connect the flooring planks, 310 and 320. The number of clips selected can depend on the length of the flooring planks and the forces working to pull the planks apart. The clips can be engaged at the ends and in the middles of the grooves, 340 and 350. While the barbs, 140 and 150, of the clip 100 are designed to prevent ready removal of the clip 100 from the grooves, 340 and 350, the clip 100 can be removed using a screwdriver or other appropriate implement.
The flooring planks of the flooring system 300 can have more than one groove.formed in their bottom surfaces.
When a groove is formed along each side of the bottom surface, 6237163.l 11698 1227C 97379D41 - 2 1 -..' flooring planks can be connected on a11 sides. Another embodiment of the flooring system of the invention is depicted in Fig. 9. The flooring planks of the flooring system 400 each have grooves formed along each aide of their bottom surfaces. In order to reduce the size of the clips needed, it is preferable to have the grooves formed near the edges of the bottom surfaces of the flooring planks.
In the flooring system 400, a first flooring plank 410 adjacently abuts, along their lengths, a second flooring plank 420. For purpose of example and not limitation, the flooring planks of the flooring system 400 have lengths longer than their widths, but the lengths of the flooring planks vary. The second flooring plank 420 adjacently abuts, along their widths, a third flooring plank 430. At least one clip 100 is engaged within the groove 470 of the first flooring plank 410 .to connect the first flooring plank 410 with the second flooring plank 420. Likewise, at least one clip 100 is engaged within the grooves 470 of the second flooring plank 420 and third flooring plank 430 to connect them together.
Additional flooring planks may be connected to the flooring planks, 410, 420, and 430 depicted in Fig. 9 until the desired area of flooring surface is achieved. In order to achieve a particular pattern or design of flooring planks, the lengths of the flooring planks may vary.
The flooring planks of the flooring system 400 depicted in Fig. 9 may also be joined by a "tongue and groove"
arrangement. With the "tongue and groove" arrangement, the protrusion formed along a side of one flooring plank fits into 6237463.l l1696 1277C 97379041 ~ 2 2 -the recess formed into a side of an adjacent flooring plank.
Therefore, each flooring plank has a protrusion-bearing side and a recess-bearing side for joining with similarly constructed flooring planks on each side. The tongue and groove arrangement aids the alignment of the top surfaces of the flooring planks. The recess 460 sides of the second flooring plank 420 and the third flooring plank 430 are visible in Fig. 9. One end of the protrusion 465 sides of the first flooring plank 410 and the third flooring plank 430 are also visible. In addition to clips, the first flooring plank 410 is also connected to the second and third flooring planks, 420 and 430, by a tongue and groove arrangement.
The flooring planks of the flooring system of the invention may be constructed of any suitable floor material capable of having grooves formed in its bottom surface. For example, the flooring planks may be made of natural wood or laminate material. In order to provide the desired attributes of a floor, the flooring planks may be pre-treated. For example, the flooring planks may be pre-treated with water repellent so that the flooring system is waterproof. One of the benefits of the flooring system of the present invention is elimination of the need to glue the component planks together. Excess glue is difficult to remove and makes it difficult to remove individual planks that become damaged or worn in the normal usage of the floor. The flooring system of the invention does not require glue and permits replacement of individual planks. Tight joints are formed between the flooring planks even though glue is not used. Though usually 6237463.1 11698 1227C 97379044 - 2 3 -undesirable, glue may be used with the flooring system of the invention.
The present invention also encompasses a method of installing a floor. The method includes positioning at least two floor panels adjacent to each other. A side of one floor panel will be adjacent a side of the other floor panel and will form a seam between the floor panels. The floor panels each have a top surface and a bottom surface. There are grooves formed in the bottom surfaces of the panels. The grooves are formed to run parallel with the edges of the bottom surfaces of the panels.
The floor panels may be rectangular or of such other shape that they can be positioned adjacent to each other such as square, triangular, hexagonal, or octagonal. When the floor panels are rectangular, each floor panel has two lengths and two widths. The floor panels may be fabricated such that adjacent floor panels fit together by a "tongue and groove"
arrangement. For such an arrangement with rectangular floor panels, each floor panel has a protrusion formed on one of its sides and a recess formed into the opposite side. The protrusion is sized to fit into the recess of an adjacent floor panel. Once the floor panels have been positioned adjacent to each other, the protrusion of one panel is fit into the recess of the adjacent panel.
Next, a number of joinery clips are selected for connecting the floor panels together. The number of joinery clips selected will depend on the length of the sides of the -floor panels being connected. More clips may be necessary if 6237463.1 1169A 1227C 97379044 - 2 4 it is anticipated that the floor panels will be exposed to increased forces that work to separate the floor panels.
For purpose of example and not limitation, if the floor panels are four feet long, two joinery clips may be sufficient to form a tight connection between the floor panels. The floor panels may also be connected along the seam formed by the widths of the panels being adjacent to each other. If the floor panels are four feet long and eight inches wide, one clip is generally sufficient to connect adjacent widths of two panels. The number of joinery clips can potentially be reduced by increasing the length of the body portion of the joinery clip.
The joinery clips have a body portion, a first flange section extending away from the body portion, and a second flange section spaced from the first flange section and also extending away from the body portion. The first and second flange sections each have a barb that includes a tang portion. The joinery clips used in the method of installing a floor of the invention are similar to the clips depicted in Figs. 1-5 and described above.
After the necessary number of joinery clips are selected, the body portions of the joinery clips are disposed against the seam formed between the two floor panels positioned adjacent each other. Preferably, the body portion of the joinery clip is flat so that when it is disposed against the seam, it does not contribute significantly to the thickness of the floor. The joinery clips are spaced along 6737463.1 11698 1227C 97379044 - 2 5 -_.;
the seam in such a way that a tight connection will be formed between the floor panels.
In order to apply the joinery clip to the adjacent floor panels, the barb of the first flange section of the joinery clip is engaged in the groove of one of the floor panels. While the barb is easily inserted into the groove, the tang portion of the barb prevents movement of the first flange section out of the groove. The barb of the second flange section is then engaged in the groove of the other floor panel. While no tool is necessary to engage the flange sections in the grooves, a screwdriver or other similar implement is needed to remove the flange sections from the grooves.
In some cases, it is desirable to apply protective coatings to the seam formed between the floor panels. For example, it may be desirable to apply a waterproofing agent along the seam formed between the floor panels. A waterproof surface may also be achieved by pre-treating the cores of the floor panels prior to installation.
In view of the description above, it is evident that the present invention reduces the time needed to form a panel system or to install a floor. Use of the joinery clip of the invention to connect panels or flooring planks together eliminates the need to use glue or similar adhesive substances. Therefore, it is not necessary to clean and remove excess glue from the seams between adjacent panels or flooring planks. The present invention also eliminates the risk of damage to the appearance of the panel system or floor 6237163.l 1l698 1227C 97379011 - 2 6 that may be caused by excess glue that is either not removed or inadequately removed. Further, by not using glue, worn or damaged panels or flooring planks may be replaced individually. The present invention also allows a panel or floor system to be easily disassembled.
Although reference has been made to the use of the joinery clip for forming panel and floor systems for the purpose of explanation, it ~is understood that alternative uses may be made of the joinery clip of the invention. It also will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the design and construction of the joinery clip, panel system, and floor system, as well as in the performance of the method, without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention.
Other embodiments of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein.
It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, with the true scope and spirit of the invention being indicated by the following claims.
6237163.1 1169B 1227C 973790~l
METHOD AND SYSTEM OF USING SAME
Field Of The Invention The present invention relates in general to a joinery clip for joining adjacent panel or floor sections in abutting relationship, a panel system of adjacently positioned panels secured in abutting relationship, and a flooring system including a plurality of flooring planks connected in abutting relationship. Particularly, the present invention is directed to a joinEry clip having a body portion, a first flange section extending away from the body portion, and a second flange section spaced from the first flange section and extending away from the body portion. The first and second flange sections each have a barb configured to be received in a channel of one of the adjacent floor sections being joined.
The barbs have a tang portion that prevents ready removal of the barb when received in the channel.
The panel system of the invention has at least two panels positioned in adj-acent abutting relationship, each panel having a top side and a bottom side. Each panel has at least one extending groove formed in the bottom side of the panel. Additionally, the panel system has a clip for joining the adjacently positioned panels that abut each other edge to edge. The clip is similar to the joinery clip described 6137163.1 1169B 1127C 97379044 _ 1 above. The barb of the first flange section is engaged in a groove of one of the adjacently positioned panels and the barb of the second flange section is engaged in a groove of the other of the adjacently positioned panels. The barbs have a tang portion that prevents ready removal of the barbs from the grooves.
The flooring system of the invention is comprised of at least two flooring planks disposed in adjacent abutting relationship and a clip for connecting the flooring planks.
The flooring planks each have a top surface and a bottom surface and include at least one groove extending in the bottom surface. The body portion of the clip is disposed against the seam formed between the two flooring planks. The barb of the first flange section of the clip is engaged in a groove of one of the flooring planks and the barb of the second flange section of the clip is engaged in a groove of the other of the flooring planks.
The present invention is further directed to a method of installing a floor using a joinery clip to connect adjacent pieces of flooring material.
D scription Of Related Art A variety of materials are available for use as floorings. Several of these materials are sold in the form of panels or planks including laminate and natural wood materials. A floor of this type may generally be installed by laying appropriately sized panels of flooring material side by side and connecting the panels to each other and, sometimes, 6237463.1 1l698 1237C 97379044 ~ 2 to the underlying surface onto which the floor is being installed.
Frequently, flooring material comprised of panels are connected together by a ~tongue and groove" method. The panels employed in this process typically are narrow and rectangular in shape having a length substantially greater . than their width, but can be square in shape and in some instances triangularly shaped. Most commonly, the two panels are positioned in adjacent abutting relationship and connected together along their lengths. Along one lengthwise side of a panel there is a protrusion formed by the panel material commonly referred to as a "tongue". Along the other lengthwise side of the same panel there is a groove or recess formed into the panel material. When two such panels are laid next to each other along their lengthwise sides, the tongue side of one panel fits into the groove side of the other panel. The fitting of the tongue side of the first panel into the groove side of the second panel forms a first physical connection between the two panels. The tongue and groove arrangement aligns the top surfaces of the panels.
Likewise formed panels can be similarly added and connected to the first two panels until a desired area is covered by the connected panels to form a floor. The length of the panels can be adjusted to fit the size of the room in which the floor is being installed without losing the tongue and groove mechanism of connecting the panels.
Typically, a second physical connection is made at the seams between adjacent panels by using glue, mastic's 6137463.1 1l698 1227C 97379011 screws, or nails. Glue is also used to seal and waterproof the seams.
The installation of a floor having panels fitted together by the tongue and groove method and sealed with glue generally requires additional steps. For example, the first three rows of panels of the floor must not only be glued, but _ clamped together to establish a straight line. Additional panels are also glued at the seams, but do not require clamping. While the glue is necessary to seal the seams created between panels by the tongue and~groove connections, excess glue is extruded through the seam onto the surface of the panels. Consequently, a significant amount of time is needed to clean the glue off of the decorative surface of the panels. If not removed, excess glue creates a haze on the surface of the floor and is cosmetically undesirable.
In addition to the clamping and cleaning steps, floors formed by panels that are glued together require expansion joints approximately every twenty feet. A wood floor comprised of panels that are glued together essentially forms a solid structure. The expansion joints compensate for the natural expansion and contraction of the wood. A raised molding is installed as an expansion joint every twenty feet in a glued floor. As with the gluing step, the installation of expansion joints increases the overall installation time for the floor.
As the floor is used, the individual panels will undergo normal wear and tear. If the seams between the panels are sealed with glue, replacement of individual panels that 6237163.l 11696 1227C 97379D14 become damaged is more difficult because the glue line must be broken. The floor is also more difficult to disassemble when glue is used. Consequently, there are limitations associated with the use of glue to seal the seams formed between adjacent panels.
In view of the above, there remains a need for a device that can be used to connect adjacent floor panels together without needing glue to create a seal at the seams.
Further, there remains a need for a panel system including a series of laminate or wood panels connected together in a manner that does not require glue, clamps, or expansion joints and the deficiencies associated with their use. There also remains a need for a flooring system comprised of panels connected together without the use of glue to seal the seams between the panels.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The purpose and advantages of the invention will be set forth in and apparent from the description and drawings that follow, as well as will be learned by practice of the invention. Additional advantages of the invention will be realized and attained by the elements of the apparatus, systems, and method particularly pointed out in the appended claims.
Advantages of the present invention include elimination of the need to use glue to seal the seams formed between the individual panels or planks used to form a floor.
Therefore, the need to clean excess glue from those seams is 6I37163.1 l1698 1227C 97379011 ~ 5 eliminated while still maintaining a tight joint between the panels or planks. An additional advantage of the present invention is a reduction in the time needed to install the floor because it is no longer necessary to remove excess glue.
Damaged panels or planks are more easily replaced and entire floors are more easily disassembled using the present invention. The present invention may be used in conjunction with the traditional "tongue and groove" method of connecting floor panels or planks. To achieve these and other advantages and in accordance with the purpose of the invention, as embodied and broadly described herein, the present invention is directed to a joinery clip, a panel system, a flooring system, and a method of installing a floor.
The joinery clip has a body portion, a first flange section, and a second flange section. The first flange section extends away from the body portion. The second flange section is spaced from the first flange section and also extends away from the body portion. Both the first and second flange sections have a barb that is ccynfigured to be received in a channel of a flooring section. Each flooring section, whether a panel or plank, has at least one channel formed in the bottom surface. The channels are formed in proximity to the edges of the flooring sections. The barbs of the flange sections of the joinery clip of the invention each have a tang portion that prevents ready removal of the barbs when they are received within the channels of the flooring sections.
The panel system of the invention has at least two panels and a clip, similar to the joinery clip described 6237163.1 l1698 1327C 97379041 above) for connecting the panels together. The panels are positioned adjacent to and abutting each other along their edges. The panels have a top side and a bottom side, the bottoms sides of each of the panels having a groove formed therein. The barb of the first flange section of the joinery clip is engaged in the groove of one of the panels and the barb of the second flange section of the joinery clip is engaged in the groove of the other of the panels. The tang portions of the barbs prevent ready removal of the barbs from the respective grooves.
The grooves formed in the bottom sides of the panels of the panel system are formed along the lengths of the panels. More than one groove can be formed in the bottom side of each panel. Generally, if there is more than one groove formed in the bottom side of a panel, the additional grooves are formed along the other edges of the panel. More than one joinery clip can be used to connect or join the adjacent panels where they abut each other edge to edge.
The flooring system of the invention has at least two flooring planks and at least one clip for connecting the flooring planks together. The clips are similar to the joinery clips described herein. The flooring planks are positioned adjacent each other so that their edges abut. Each of the flooring planks has a top surface and a bottom surface, the bottom surface having an extending groove. The flooring planks also each have two length sides and two width sides.
One of the length sides has a recess formed into it and the other of the length sides has a protrusion formed on it. The 6237163.1 1l698 1227C 97379044 _ 7 protrusion is sized to complement the recess. The flooring planks are first joined by fitting the protrusion along the length of one of the flooring planks into the recess formed in one of the lengths of the other flooring plank. In order to securely connect the two flooring planks together, the body portion of the clip is disposed against the seam formed between the abutting edges of the flooring planks. The barb of the first flange section of the clip is engaged in the groove of one of the flooring planks. The barb of the second flange section is engaged in the groove of the other flooring plank. The barbs of the clip have tang portions to prevent ready removal of the barbs from the grooves of the flooring planks.
The grooves formed in the bottom surfaces of the flooring planks can be formed along the length of the flooring planks. Typically, in the flooring system, the length sides of the flooring planks will abut each other, therefore, the grooves in which the clip is engaged are along the length sides. More than one groove can be formed in the bottom surfaces of the flooring planks. Multiple grooves permit connections to adjacent flooring planks on more than one side.
If multiple grooves are used, they are formed along the edges of the flooring planks. The flooring planks can be made of laminate, natural wood, or another suitable flooring material.
The flooring planks can be pretreated to have water-proof or other desirable properties.
The objects and advantages of the present invention are further achieved by a method of installing a floor. The 6237463.l 1169B 1227C 97379044 _ 8 method of installing a floor includes the steps of positioning at least two floor panels, fitting the floor panels together along their lengths by a "tongue and groove" arrangement, selecting a number of joinery clips, disposing the joinery clips, and engaging the joinery clips into the floor panels.
The floor panels are positioned adjacent to each other so that their edges abut each other. The floor panels each have a top surface and a bottom surface, the bottom surfaces having grooves formed along each side of the floor panels. Each floor panel has two lengthwise sides. Oae of the lengthwise sides has a recess formed therein and the other lengthwise side has a protrusion formed on it. The protrusion is sized to fit into the recess of a similarly configured adjoining floor panel. When positioned next to each other, the recess side of one panel is adjacent to the protrusion side of the other panel. The method includes a step of fitting the protrusion side of the one floor panel into the recess side of the other floor panel.
The flooring panels are maintained in abutting adjacent position by using a sufficient number of joinery clips to securely connect the abutting edges of the flooring panels. The joinery clips have a body portion, a first flange section, and a second flange section. Both the first and second flange sections extend away from the body portion. The second flange section is spaced from the first flange section.
Both of the flange sections include a barb and each of the barbs has a tang portion.
637a63.1 l1698 127C 9737901t The joinery clips are disposed such that the body portions of the clips are positioned against the seam formed by the abutting edges of the adjacent floor panels. With the body portion spanning the seam formed between the two floor panels, the barb of the first flange section of the clip is engaged in the groove in the bottom surface of one of the floor panels. Next, the barb of the second flange section is engaged in the groove of the other floor panel. The floor panels are connectEd together by~the joinery clips being engaged in the grooves formed in the bottom surfaces of the floor panels.
Additional floor panels can be connected together using the joinery clips. Floor panels can be connected together along any of their edges because each edge of a floor panel has a groove formed in its bottom surface. A sufficient number of floor panels are connected together in a desired pattern to form a floor covering the desired area.
It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and provided for purposes of explanation only, and are not restrictive. of the invention, as claimed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate the preferred embodiment of the invention, and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.
6T37463.1 1i698 1227C 97379044 Fig. 1 is a perspective view of an example of the joinery clip of the present invention.
Fig. 2 ie a perspective view of another example of the joinery clip of the present invention.
Fig. 3 is a top view of the joinery clip shown in Fig. 1.
Fig. 4 is a side view of the joinery clip shown in Fig. 1.
Fig. 5 is an end view of the joinery clip shown in Fig. 1.
Fig. 6 is a perspective view of an example of the panel system of the invention.
Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the bottom side of a panel that can be used for the panel system of the invention.
Fig. 8 is a perspective view of an example of the flooring system of the invention.
Fig. 9 is a perspective view of an additional example of the flooring system of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Reference will now be made in detail to the present preferred embodiments of the joinery clip, panel system, and flooring system of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference characters will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. However, where it is needed to provide a clearer description of the invention, different reference characters are used to refer to 677163.1 1l698 1ZZ7C 9737901~ - 1 1 -like parts. The method of the present invention will be described in conjunction with the detailed description of the joinery clip and the flooring system for clarity.
An exemplary embodiment of the joinery clip of the present invention is shown in Fig. 1 and designated generally by reference character 100. The joinery clip 100 is comprised of a body portion 110, a first flange section 120 and a second flange section 130. The body portion 110 is preferably of flat dimension so that when the joinery clip 100 is used to join adjacent panels or floor sections, the body portion 1l0 does not contribute significantly to the thickness of the panel system or flooring system. The dimensions of the body portion 110 are dependent upon the span across which the joinery clip 100 must join the adjacent panels or flooring sections.
Extending away from the body portion 110 is a first flange section 120. At the opposite side of and also extending away from the body portion 110 is a second flange section l30. The first flange section l20 and second flange section l30 extend far enough away from the body portion 110 to be engaged in a groove or charnel of a panel or flooring section. The first flange section 120 and second flange section 130 are spaced a predetermined distance apart to be able to join two adjacent panels or flooring sections.
The first flange section 120 has a barb l40 and the second flange section 130 has a barb 150. The barbs, 140 and l50, are configured to be received in a channel or groove -formed in the bottom sides of the adjacent panels or flooring 6237463.l 1l698 1227C 973790t4 - 1 2 sections. Barb 140 has a tang portion 160 and barb 150 has a tang portion 170 designed to prevent the ready removal of the barbs from the channels or grooves into Which they have been inserted. In Fig. 1, the barbs, 140 and 150, are directed outward away from the body portion 110. Another example of the joinery clip 100 of the invention is depicted in Fig. 2.
In Fig. 2, the barbs, 140 and 150, are directed inward toward the body portion 110. As with the joinery clip 100 dzpicted in Fig. 1, the tang portions, 160 and 170, of the barbs, 140 and 150, shown in Fig. 2 prevent the ready removal of the barbs from the channels or grooves into which they have been inserted. Because the tang portions, 160 and 170, grip the interior of the channel, the barbs, 140 and 150, must be removed from the channels by using a screwdriver or similar implement.
The barbs, 140 and 15Q, depicted in Figs..1 andJ2, are continuous along the entire lengths of the first flange section 120 and the second flange section 130, respectively.
In another embodiment of the joinery clip 100 of the invention, the barbs extend only along part of the length of the flange sections. Further, it is also possible to have multiple barbs spaced intermittently along the lengths of the flange sections. Regardless of the number or lengths of the barbs, the barbs are configured to be received in channels and they have tang portions to prevent ready removal from the channels.
Fig. 3 shows a top view of the joinery clip 100 depicted in Fig. 1. The planar dimension of the body portion 6237163.1 1l698 1227C 97379011 - 1 3 -i 110 is visible in~Fig. 3. The barb 140 of the first flange section 120 and the barb 150 of the second flange section 130 are shown extending vertically downward away from the body portion 110. In this embodiment, the barbs, 140 and 150, are angled downward in order to be received in the channels of adjacent floor sections. Fig. 4 is a side view of the joinery clip 100 depicted in Fig. 1. In the side view of the joinery clip 100, the second flange section 130 is visible. Also visible are the tang portion 170 and barb 150 of the second flange section 130. The tang portion 170 is configured to prevent ready removal of the barb l50 from a groove or channel into which the second flange section has been inserted.
Fig. 5 depicts an end view of the joinery clip 100 depicted in Fig. 1. The relative dimensions of the body portion 110, the first flange section 120 and the second flange section 130 are visible. The width of the first flange section 120, inciuding~the barb 140 and-tang portion 16D, is approximately the same as the width of the channel into which the first flange section 120 will be inserted. Likewise, the width of the second flange section 130, including the barb 150 and tang portion 170, is approximately the same as the width of the channel formed in the bottom side of the adjacent panel or flooring section into which the second flange section 130 will be inserted.
The joinery clip 100 of the invention can be made of aluminum) plastic, or other suitable material sufficiently strong to connect adjacent panels or flooring sections. The joinery clip material is selected to be compatible with the 6237t63.1 11698 1227C 97379014 - 1 4 i panel or flooring material and with the intended use of the panel system or flooring system.
An exemplary embodiment of the panel system of the invention is depicted in Fig. 6. While the panel system depicted in Fig. 6 is exemplary of the panel system of the invention, the panel system of the invention is not limited to two panels; additional panels may be used as needed for the desired application.
The panel system 200 is comprised of at least two panels and at least one clip for joining adjacently positioned panels. The panel system 200 includes a number of clips sufficient to securely join the panels. In Fig. 6, a first panel 210 is positioned in adjacent abutting relationship to a second panel 220. As depicted, the panels are adjacently abutting each other when they are positioned such that their sides are in contact and a seam is formed between them. The panels, 210 and 220, each have a top side, 230 and 235, respectively, and a bottom side, not visible in Fig. 6. Each panel, 210 and 220, also has a recess '(groove) 260 formed into one of its sides and a protrusion (tongue) 265 formed on the opposite side. In Fig. 6, the protrusion 265 of the second panel 220 is disposed within the recess 260 of the first panel 210. Additional panels can be positioned adjacent to the exposed sides of the panels, 210 and 220. A protrusion of another panel could be disposed within the recess 260 of the second panel 220 and the protrusion 265 of the first panel 210 could be disposed within a recess of another panel.
6Z37163.1 11698 127C 97379014 - 1 5 Each panel, 210 and 220, also has a groove or channel, 240 and 250, respectively, formed in its bottom side.
The grooves, 240 and 250, either can extend the entire length of the panels, 210 and 220, or they can only be formed at the locations in the bottom sides where it is necessary to insert a clip 100. In Fig. 6, the grooves, 240 and 250, extend the length of panels, 210 and 220, as depicted by the broken lines. The configuration of the grooves, 240 and 250, provides a snug fit with the barbs of the clip 100. The depth of the grooves, 240 and 250, is selected to provide good engagement with the barbs. Preferably, the depth of the grooves, 240 and 250, is less than one half the height of the panels, 210 and 220. If the grooves, 240 and 250, are too deep, the structure of the panels, 210 and 220, is weakened.
The panel system 200 also comprises a clip 100 for joining the adjacently positioned panels, 210 and 220. The clip 100 is similar to the joinery clip depicted in Figs. 1-5 and described above. The body portion 1l0 of the clip 100 spans across the seam formed between the bottom sides of the adjacent abutting panels, 210 and 220. The body portion 110 also extends a short distance along the seam. The first flange section 120 of the clip 100 is engaged in the groove 240 of the first panel 210. The barb of the first flange section 120 is configured to fit within the groove 240.
Similarly, the second flange section 130 of the clip 100 is engaged in the groove 250 of the second panel 220. The barb of the second flange section l30 is configured to fit within the groove 250. The tang portions of the barbs of the flange 6Z37163.1 1169A 1227C 9737901~ - 1 6 -sections engage the sidewalls of the grooves, 240 and 250, and prevent ready removal of the flange sections from the grooves, 240 and 250. The tang portion is formed at an angle with the top of the barb. The width at the top of the barb is narrower than the width at the bottom, where the tang portion is located. The increasing width of the barb permits easy insertion of the flange section into the groove but resists removal of the flange section from the groove.
Not visible, but shown by broken lines in Fig. 6, the grooves, 240 and 250, are formed through the full length of the sides of the panels, 210 and 220, that are adjacently abutting each other. Therefore, more than one clip 100 can be used to join the panels, 210 and 220. In order to reduce the span between the panels, 210 and 220, that must be covered by the body portion 110 of the clip, the grooves, 240 and 250, preferably are formed near the edges of the panels, 210 and 220.
In another embodiment of the panel system of the invention, the panel 2l0 has more than one groove formed in its bottom side for receiving clips. The plurality of grooves pernrits the panel 210 to be joined to adjacent panels on each of its sides. Fig. 7 depicts the bottom side 270 of a panel 210. In addition to groove 240, the bottom side 270 has additional grooves, 242, 244, and 246, formed into it. The plurality of grooves, 240, 242, 244, and 246, permits the panel 210 to be joined with adjacent abutting panels on each of its sides. More than one clip may be engaged in each of the grooves, 240, 242, 244, and 246, to join the panel 210 6Z37463.1 11698 1227C 97379044 ~ 1 7 with adjacent abutting panels. The clips 100 can be engaged at the ends or in the middles of the grooves, 240, 242, 244, and 246. The number of clips used is dependent on the dimensions of the panels 210 being joined and the magnitude of separating force to which the panels will be exposed. With some panel systems 200, it may be possible to reduce the number of clips by increasing the length of the body portion l10 of the clips 100.
The panel 210 has edges 280 A, B, C, and D that define its perimeter. In order to reduce the size of the clips needed to join like-sized panels 2l0, the grooves, 240, 242, 244, and 246, are formed parallel to and near the edges 280 A, 8, C, and D. However, a sufficient portion of the body of the panel 210 should be maintained between the edges 280 A, H, C, and D and the grooves, 240, 242, 244, and 246, to prevent the panel 210 from breaking and to provide a strong connection between panels.
The panel system of the invention may be comprised of as many panels as are necessary to form the desired area of connected panels. Such a system of panels may be used for a variety of purposes. For example, the panel system may be used to form a wall covering, a partition, a sound barrier, a ceiling, or a floor. The material out of which the panels are constructed is selected to suit the purpose of the panel system, so long as it is capable of having a groove formed therein. For example, if the panel system is to be used for a decorative-type covering, the top side may be patterned. If - -6237163.1 1169B 1227C 97379011 - 1 8 -the panel system is to act as a sound barrier, a sound absorbing material may be used to fabricate the panels.
The present invention also encompasses a flooring system. An exemplary embodiment of the flooring system of the invention is depicted in Fig. 8. However, the flooring system of the invention is not limited to two flooring planks. A
plurality of flooring planks may be used in the flooring system of the invention so that the resulting floor surface covers the desired area.
The flooring system 300 comprises at least two flooring Blanks, 310 and 320, and at least one connecting clip 100. While the flooring planks, 310 and 320, may be of any dimension, those depicted in Fig. 8 are of a length substantially longer than their width. The sides of the flooring planks, 310 and 320, are in adjacent abutting relationship to each other forming a seam 368. The first flooring plank 310 has a top surface 330 and a bottom surface, not visible in Fig. 8. The second flooring plank 320 has a top surface 335 and a bottom surface, also not visible in Fig.
8. The first flooring plank 310 has a groove 340 formed through the length of its bottom surface; likewise, the second flooring plank 320 has a groove 350 formed through the length of its bottom surface. Though the bottom surfaces are not visible, the hidden appearances of the grooves, 340 and 350, formed through the lengths of the flooring planks, 310 and 320, are depicted by broken lines. As with the panel system of the invention, the grooves, 340 and 350, may either extend the entire length of the flooring planks, 310 and 320, or they 6237163.l l1698 1227C 97379044 - 1 9 -may only be formed at those points along the lengths where clips will be engaged.
Each flooring plank, 310 and 320, may employ a "tongue and groove" arrangement. The tongue and groove arrangement generally includes a recess (groove) formed into one side and a protrusion (tongue) formed on the other side of a flooring plank. The protrusion is sized to fit into the recess formed in the side of an adjacent flooring plank. In Fig. 8, each of the flooring planks, 310 and 320, has a recess 360 along one side and a protrusion 365 along the opposite side. The protrusion 365 of the second flooring plank 320 is disposed or inserted within the recess 360 of the first flooring plank 310. The protrusion side of an additional flooring plank can be inserted within the exposed recess 360 of the second flooring plank 320. Likewise, the exposed protrusion 365 of the first flooring plank 310 may be inserted within the recess of an additional flooring plank. With flooring planks that are rectangular in shape, the tongue and groove are generally disposed on opposite lengthwise sides.
With square flooring planks, each plank generally includes either a11 tongues or a11 grooves on each side. The appropriate plank is then selected depending on whether a tongue or a groove side is exposed.
The clip 100 of the flooring system 300 may be used in conjunction with the tongue and groove arrangement between flooring planks, 310 and 320. When it is used, the tongue and groove arrangement keeps the top surfaces of the flooring planks aligned.
6237163.l 1l698 1227C 973790t4 - 2 O
The clip 100 of the flooring system 300 is similar to the joinery clip depicted in Figs. 1-5. The body portion 110 of the clip 100 is disposed against the seam 368 formed between the abutting flooring planks, 310 and 320. The barb 140 of the clip 100 is engaged in the groove 340 of the first flooring plank 310. The other barb 150 of the clip 100 is engaged in the groove 350 of the second flooring plank 320.
The tang portions of the barbs prevent the ready removal of the barbs, 140 azd 150, from the grooves, 340 and 350.
while mostly hidden in Fig. 8, the grooves, 340 and 350, can extend along the entire length of the flooring planks, 310 and 320. The extension of the grooves. 340 and 350, is depicted by broken lines in Fig_ 8. In order to minimize the distance spanned by the body portion 1l0 of the clip 100, the grooves, 340 and 350, are formed proximately to the abutting edges of the flooring planks, 310 and 320. More than one clip 100 can be used to connect the flooring planks, 310 and 320. The number of clips selected can depend on the length of the flooring planks and the forces working to pull the planks apart. The clips can be engaged at the ends and in the middles of the grooves, 340 and 350. While the barbs, 140 and 150, of the clip 100 are designed to prevent ready removal of the clip 100 from the grooves, 340 and 350, the clip 100 can be removed using a screwdriver or other appropriate implement.
The flooring planks of the flooring system 300 can have more than one groove.formed in their bottom surfaces.
When a groove is formed along each side of the bottom surface, 6237163.l 11698 1227C 97379D41 - 2 1 -..' flooring planks can be connected on a11 sides. Another embodiment of the flooring system of the invention is depicted in Fig. 9. The flooring planks of the flooring system 400 each have grooves formed along each aide of their bottom surfaces. In order to reduce the size of the clips needed, it is preferable to have the grooves formed near the edges of the bottom surfaces of the flooring planks.
In the flooring system 400, a first flooring plank 410 adjacently abuts, along their lengths, a second flooring plank 420. For purpose of example and not limitation, the flooring planks of the flooring system 400 have lengths longer than their widths, but the lengths of the flooring planks vary. The second flooring plank 420 adjacently abuts, along their widths, a third flooring plank 430. At least one clip 100 is engaged within the groove 470 of the first flooring plank 410 .to connect the first flooring plank 410 with the second flooring plank 420. Likewise, at least one clip 100 is engaged within the grooves 470 of the second flooring plank 420 and third flooring plank 430 to connect them together.
Additional flooring planks may be connected to the flooring planks, 410, 420, and 430 depicted in Fig. 9 until the desired area of flooring surface is achieved. In order to achieve a particular pattern or design of flooring planks, the lengths of the flooring planks may vary.
The flooring planks of the flooring system 400 depicted in Fig. 9 may also be joined by a "tongue and groove"
arrangement. With the "tongue and groove" arrangement, the protrusion formed along a side of one flooring plank fits into 6237463.l l1696 1277C 97379041 ~ 2 2 -the recess formed into a side of an adjacent flooring plank.
Therefore, each flooring plank has a protrusion-bearing side and a recess-bearing side for joining with similarly constructed flooring planks on each side. The tongue and groove arrangement aids the alignment of the top surfaces of the flooring planks. The recess 460 sides of the second flooring plank 420 and the third flooring plank 430 are visible in Fig. 9. One end of the protrusion 465 sides of the first flooring plank 410 and the third flooring plank 430 are also visible. In addition to clips, the first flooring plank 410 is also connected to the second and third flooring planks, 420 and 430, by a tongue and groove arrangement.
The flooring planks of the flooring system of the invention may be constructed of any suitable floor material capable of having grooves formed in its bottom surface. For example, the flooring planks may be made of natural wood or laminate material. In order to provide the desired attributes of a floor, the flooring planks may be pre-treated. For example, the flooring planks may be pre-treated with water repellent so that the flooring system is waterproof. One of the benefits of the flooring system of the present invention is elimination of the need to glue the component planks together. Excess glue is difficult to remove and makes it difficult to remove individual planks that become damaged or worn in the normal usage of the floor. The flooring system of the invention does not require glue and permits replacement of individual planks. Tight joints are formed between the flooring planks even though glue is not used. Though usually 6237463.1 11698 1227C 97379044 - 2 3 -undesirable, glue may be used with the flooring system of the invention.
The present invention also encompasses a method of installing a floor. The method includes positioning at least two floor panels adjacent to each other. A side of one floor panel will be adjacent a side of the other floor panel and will form a seam between the floor panels. The floor panels each have a top surface and a bottom surface. There are grooves formed in the bottom surfaces of the panels. The grooves are formed to run parallel with the edges of the bottom surfaces of the panels.
The floor panels may be rectangular or of such other shape that they can be positioned adjacent to each other such as square, triangular, hexagonal, or octagonal. When the floor panels are rectangular, each floor panel has two lengths and two widths. The floor panels may be fabricated such that adjacent floor panels fit together by a "tongue and groove"
arrangement. For such an arrangement with rectangular floor panels, each floor panel has a protrusion formed on one of its sides and a recess formed into the opposite side. The protrusion is sized to fit into the recess of an adjacent floor panel. Once the floor panels have been positioned adjacent to each other, the protrusion of one panel is fit into the recess of the adjacent panel.
Next, a number of joinery clips are selected for connecting the floor panels together. The number of joinery clips selected will depend on the length of the sides of the -floor panels being connected. More clips may be necessary if 6237463.1 1169A 1227C 97379044 - 2 4 it is anticipated that the floor panels will be exposed to increased forces that work to separate the floor panels.
For purpose of example and not limitation, if the floor panels are four feet long, two joinery clips may be sufficient to form a tight connection between the floor panels. The floor panels may also be connected along the seam formed by the widths of the panels being adjacent to each other. If the floor panels are four feet long and eight inches wide, one clip is generally sufficient to connect adjacent widths of two panels. The number of joinery clips can potentially be reduced by increasing the length of the body portion of the joinery clip.
The joinery clips have a body portion, a first flange section extending away from the body portion, and a second flange section spaced from the first flange section and also extending away from the body portion. The first and second flange sections each have a barb that includes a tang portion. The joinery clips used in the method of installing a floor of the invention are similar to the clips depicted in Figs. 1-5 and described above.
After the necessary number of joinery clips are selected, the body portions of the joinery clips are disposed against the seam formed between the two floor panels positioned adjacent each other. Preferably, the body portion of the joinery clip is flat so that when it is disposed against the seam, it does not contribute significantly to the thickness of the floor. The joinery clips are spaced along 6737463.1 11698 1227C 97379044 - 2 5 -_.;
the seam in such a way that a tight connection will be formed between the floor panels.
In order to apply the joinery clip to the adjacent floor panels, the barb of the first flange section of the joinery clip is engaged in the groove of one of the floor panels. While the barb is easily inserted into the groove, the tang portion of the barb prevents movement of the first flange section out of the groove. The barb of the second flange section is then engaged in the groove of the other floor panel. While no tool is necessary to engage the flange sections in the grooves, a screwdriver or other similar implement is needed to remove the flange sections from the grooves.
In some cases, it is desirable to apply protective coatings to the seam formed between the floor panels. For example, it may be desirable to apply a waterproofing agent along the seam formed between the floor panels. A waterproof surface may also be achieved by pre-treating the cores of the floor panels prior to installation.
In view of the description above, it is evident that the present invention reduces the time needed to form a panel system or to install a floor. Use of the joinery clip of the invention to connect panels or flooring planks together eliminates the need to use glue or similar adhesive substances. Therefore, it is not necessary to clean and remove excess glue from the seams between adjacent panels or flooring planks. The present invention also eliminates the risk of damage to the appearance of the panel system or floor 6237163.l 1l698 1227C 97379011 - 2 6 that may be caused by excess glue that is either not removed or inadequately removed. Further, by not using glue, worn or damaged panels or flooring planks may be replaced individually. The present invention also allows a panel or floor system to be easily disassembled.
Although reference has been made to the use of the joinery clip for forming panel and floor systems for the purpose of explanation, it ~is understood that alternative uses may be made of the joinery clip of the invention. It also will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the design and construction of the joinery clip, panel system, and floor system, as well as in the performance of the method, without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention.
Other embodiments of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein.
It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, with the true scope and spirit of the invention being indicated by the following claims.
6237163.1 1169B 1227C 973790~l
Claims (16)
1. A joinery clip for joining adjacent floor sections in abutting relationship comprising:
a body portion;
a first flange section extending away from the body portion;
a second flange section spaced from the first flange section and extending away from the body portion; the first and second flange sections each having a barb configured to be received in a channel in one of the adjacent floor sections respectively, each of the barbs having a tang portion that prevents ready removal of the barb when received in the channel of one of the adjacent floor sections.
a body portion;
a first flange section extending away from the body portion;
a second flange section spaced from the first flange section and extending away from the body portion; the first and second flange sections each having a barb configured to be received in a channel in one of the adjacent floor sections respectively, each of the barbs having a tang portion that prevents ready removal of the barb when received in the channel of one of the adjacent floor sections.
2. A panel system comprising:
at least two panels positioned in adjacent abutting relationship and having a top side and a bottom side, each of the panels having a groove formed in the bottom side thereof; and a clip for joining adjacently positioned panels in abutting edge to edge position, the clip having a body portion, a first flange section extending away from the body portion, a second flange section spaced from the first flange section and extending away from the body portion, the first and second flange sections each having a barb engaged in the groove of one of the adjacently positioned panels and in the groove of the other of the adjacently positioned panels respectively, the barb including a tang portion preventing ready removal of the barb from the respective grooves.
at least two panels positioned in adjacent abutting relationship and having a top side and a bottom side, each of the panels having a groove formed in the bottom side thereof; and a clip for joining adjacently positioned panels in abutting edge to edge position, the clip having a body portion, a first flange section extending away from the body portion, a second flange section spaced from the first flange section and extending away from the body portion, the first and second flange sections each having a barb engaged in the groove of one of the adjacently positioned panels and in the groove of the other of the adjacently positioned panels respectively, the barb including a tang portion preventing ready removal of the barb from the respective grooves.
3. The panel system of claim 2 wherein the groove formed in the bottom sides of the panels is formed along the length of the panel.
4. The panel system of claim 2 further comprising a plurality of grooves formed in the bottom sides of the panels.
5. The panel system of claim 4 wherein the grooves formed in the bottom sides of the panels are formed along the edges of the panels.
6. The panel system of claim 2 further comprising a plurality of clips for joining adjacently positioned panels in abutting edge to edge position.
7. A flooring system comprising:
at least two flooring planks disposed in adjacent abutting relationship, each of the flooring planks having a top surface and a bottom surface, the bottom surface having an extending groove;
at least one clip connecting each pair of flooring planks in adjacent abutting relationship, the clip having a body portion, a first flange section extending away from the body portion, a second flange section spaced from the first flange section and extending away from the body portion, each of the first and second sections including a barb;
the body portion of the clip is disposed against a seam formed between the pair of flooring planks in abutting relationship and the barb of the first flange section is engaged in the groove of one flooring plank of the pair and the barb of the second flange section is engaged in the groove of the other flooring plank of the pair, the barbs having tang portions to prevent ready removal of the barbs from the grooves.
at least two flooring planks disposed in adjacent abutting relationship, each of the flooring planks having a top surface and a bottom surface, the bottom surface having an extending groove;
at least one clip connecting each pair of flooring planks in adjacent abutting relationship, the clip having a body portion, a first flange section extending away from the body portion, a second flange section spaced from the first flange section and extending away from the body portion, each of the first and second sections including a barb;
the body portion of the clip is disposed against a seam formed between the pair of flooring planks in abutting relationship and the barb of the first flange section is engaged in the groove of one flooring plank of the pair and the barb of the second flange section is engaged in the groove of the other flooring plank of the pair, the barbs having tang portions to prevent ready removal of the barbs from the grooves.
8. The flooring system of claim 7 wherein the groove formed in the bottom surfaces of the flooring planks is formed along the lengths of the flooring planks.
9. The flooring system of claim 7 further comprising a plurality of grooves formed in the bottom surfaces of the flooring planks.
10. The flooring system of claim 9 wherein the grooves formed in the bottom surfaces of the flooring planks are formed along the edges of the flooring planks.
11. The flooring system of claim 7 wherein the flooring planks are made of a laminate material.
12. The flooring system of claim 7 wherein the flooring planks are made of a natural wood material.
13. The flooring system of claim 7 wherein the flooring planks are waterproofed.
14. A flooring system comprising:
at least two flooring planks disposed in adjacent abutting relationship, each of the flooring planks having a top surface, a bottom surface, two width sides and two length sides, one of the length sides having a recess formed therein and the other of the length sides having a protrusion formed on it, the protrusion sized to fit into the recess, and the bottom surface having grooves extending along the width sides and the length sides;
at least one clip connecting each pair of flooring planks in adjacent abutting relationship, the clip having a body portion, a first flange section extending away from the body portion, a second flange section spaced from the first flange section and extending away from the body portion, each of the first and second flange sections including a barb;
the protrusion formed on the length of one flooring plank being inserted into the recess formed into the length of the adjacent abutting flooring plank;
the body portion of the clip is disposed against a seam formed between the pair of flooring planks in abutting relationship and the barb of the first flange section is engaged in a groove of one flooring plank of the pair and the barb of the second flange section is engaged in a groove of the other flooring plank of the pair, the barbs having tang portions to prevent ready removal of the barbs from the grooves.
at least two flooring planks disposed in adjacent abutting relationship, each of the flooring planks having a top surface, a bottom surface, two width sides and two length sides, one of the length sides having a recess formed therein and the other of the length sides having a protrusion formed on it, the protrusion sized to fit into the recess, and the bottom surface having grooves extending along the width sides and the length sides;
at least one clip connecting each pair of flooring planks in adjacent abutting relationship, the clip having a body portion, a first flange section extending away from the body portion, a second flange section spaced from the first flange section and extending away from the body portion, each of the first and second flange sections including a barb;
the protrusion formed on the length of one flooring plank being inserted into the recess formed into the length of the adjacent abutting flooring plank;
the body portion of the clip is disposed against a seam formed between the pair of flooring planks in abutting relationship and the barb of the first flange section is engaged in a groove of one flooring plank of the pair and the barb of the second flange section is engaged in a groove of the other flooring plank of the pair, the barbs having tang portions to prevent ready removal of the barbs from the grooves.
15. A method of installing a floor comprising the steps of:
positioning at least two floor panels adjacent each other such that a seam is formed between them, the floor panels each having a top surface, a bottom surface, the bottom surface having grooves extending parallel to the edges of the bottom surface, and two length sides, one of the length sides having a recess formed therein and the other of the length sides having a protrusion formed on it, the protrusion sized to fit into the recess;
fitting the protrusion formed on the length side of one of the floor panels into the recess formed in the length side of the other floor panel;
selecting a number of joinery clips, the joinery clips having a body portion, a first flange section extending away from the body portion, a second flange section spaced from the first flange section and extending away from the body portion, each of the first and second flange sections including a barb having a tang portion;
disposing the body portions of the joinery clips against the seam formed between the two floor panels positioned adjacent each other; and engaging the barb of the first flange section of the joinery clip in a groove of one of the floor panels and engaging the barb of the second flange section in a groove of the other floor panel of the pair.
positioning at least two floor panels adjacent each other such that a seam is formed between them, the floor panels each having a top surface, a bottom surface, the bottom surface having grooves extending parallel to the edges of the bottom surface, and two length sides, one of the length sides having a recess formed therein and the other of the length sides having a protrusion formed on it, the protrusion sized to fit into the recess;
fitting the protrusion formed on the length side of one of the floor panels into the recess formed in the length side of the other floor panel;
selecting a number of joinery clips, the joinery clips having a body portion, a first flange section extending away from the body portion, a second flange section spaced from the first flange section and extending away from the body portion, each of the first and second flange sections including a barb having a tang portion;
disposing the body portions of the joinery clips against the seam formed between the two floor panels positioned adjacent each other; and engaging the barb of the first flange section of the joinery clip in a groove of one of the floor panels and engaging the barb of the second flange section in a groove of the other floor panel of the pair.
16. The method of claim 15 further comprising the step of applying a water repellant agent to the floor panels before the floor panels are positioned adjacent to each other.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US811598A | 1998-01-16 | 1998-01-16 | |
| US09/008,115 | 1998-01-16 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2259839A1 true CA2259839A1 (en) | 1999-07-16 |
Family
ID=29581714
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2259839 Abandoned CA2259839A1 (en) | 1998-01-16 | 1999-01-18 | Laminate floor joinery clip and method and system of using same |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2259839A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GB2433749A (en) * | 2005-12-31 | 2007-07-04 | Feng-Ling Yang | Securing device for floor panels |
-
1999
- 1999-01-18 CA CA 2259839 patent/CA2259839A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GB2433749A (en) * | 2005-12-31 | 2007-07-04 | Feng-Ling Yang | Securing device for floor panels |
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