DE102012107469A1 - Surface made of mechanically interconnectable elements - Google Patents

Abstract

Covering made of mechanically interconnectable elements with the following features: a. On their sides (6, 31) to be connected to one another, the elements (1, 2) have a corresponding profile, via which adjacent elements (14) can be locked to one another when they are joined; b. The locking is effected by at least one spring element (11) which is hinged to one of the elements (2) and which can be pivoted behind a locking edge (28) of a groove (24) of the adjacent element (1) during the joining movement; c. The spring element (11) is an integral part of the element (2) before the joining movement, the one-piece connection between the spring element (11) and the element (2) being configured as a predetermined breaking point, which is provided for when the spring element (11) is pivoted to break; d. The spring element (11) is also connected to the element (2) in some areas via an elastic material (22); e. Means (16) for positively locking and / or non-positively locking the spring element (11) in its end position are arranged on the spring element (11), the locking being carried out with respect to the element (2) to which the spring element (11) is attached .

Description

The invention relates to a covering of mechanically interconnectable elements.

Wall, ceiling and floor coverings, such. Prefabricated parquet, wooden floors or laminate floors, consist of several rows of mostly rectangular in your configuration, partly from square panels. Conventionally, the panels have on a longitudinal side and on a head side through grooves and on the respective opposite longitudinal side or head side continuous springs, which are adapted to the groove form-fitting manner. Through the connection of tongue and groove the panels are laid.

It is known to form on the grooves and springs mechanical locking means which engage each other with adjacent panels in latching engagement. As a result, a joint formation by expansion or shrinkage operations should be avoided. At the tongue and groove of the panels are matched locking elements in the form of recesses, recesses or projections designed to connect connected panels in the assembled position without glue together and hold. In general, the panels are rotated along their longitudinal sides into each other or clicked and then moved laterally, so that locking strips on the head sides engage. To facilitate this type of laying, light hammer blows can be exerted from the opposite side of the head. Here you have to be very careful to avoid damage to the floor panels.

But there are also solutions in which the abutting head sides are not locked together by hammer blows, but by sliding spring elements. An example of this is a floor covering, as in the DE 20 2007 018 662 U1 is described. Identically formed panels are locked together by a substantially vertical joining movement in the horizontal and vertical directions. The locking in the vertical direction is effected by at least one horizontally movable, integrally formed out of the core spring element, which snaps in the joining movement behind a substantially horizontally extending locking edge. The at least one spring element is free in the direction of the upper side and in the direction of the opposite side edge relative to the core and connected in its side edge at at least one of the two ends to the core. The spring element must first be subjected to locking with a horizontally acting force to push it back before the built-up spring tension discharges and snaps the spring element behind the locking bar.

A further development is the subject of DE 10 2009 048 050 B3 , with which a covering is shown, which can be locked securely with less effort. It is proposed that the spring element is connected to a region of an elastic material with the core of the panel and, secondly, before the joining movement is an integral part of this panel. The connection is destroyed during joining, as it is configured as a predetermined breaking point. The spring is still held over the elastic material. Such a covering has the advantage that the springs are initially easier to produce that they do not have to be pushed back against the spring direction during joining and that they are held securely even after joining over the elastic material.

From the DE 20 2010 017 748 U1 In addition, a coating of mechanically connectable elements is known in which the spring element is an integral part of the element and has a crimping. In the crimp an elastic material is arranged, which has a greater elasticity than the spring element. The crimp has opposing walls which are at least partially, in particular over the entire surface coated with the elastic material, wherein the coatings are arranged in the unlocked state at a distance from each other and are in the locked state in contact with each other to stick together. By this bonding an even stronger connection between the adjacent panels is achieved because the spring does not swing back so easily.

The invention is therefore based on the object to show a covering of mechanical interconnectable elements, in which the coupling of the spring element with the associated element in the pivoted state is even safer, so that the connection between the two elements is even more stable.

This object is achieved in a covering with the features of claim 1.

Advantageous developments of the inventive concept are the subject of the dependent claims.

• a. Die Elemente weisen eine korrespondierende Profilierung auf, über welche benachbarte Elemente beim Zusammenfügen miteinander verriegelbar sind;
• b. Die Verriegelung wird durch mindestens ein Federelement bewirkt, welches an einem der Elemente angelenkt ist und welches bei der Fügebewegung hinter eine Verriegelungskante einer Nut des benachbarten Elements verschwenkbar ist;
• c. Das Federelement ist vor der Fügebewegung einstückiger Bestandteil des Elements, wobei die einstückige Verbindung zwischen dem Federelement und dem Element als Sollbruchstelle konfiguriert ist, welche dafür vorgesehen ist, beim Verschwenken des Federelements zu brechen;
• d. Das Federelement ist zusätzlich bereichsweise über einen elastischen Werkstoff mit dem Element verbunden.
• e. Das Federelement besitzt Mittel zum form- und/oder kraftschlüssigen Verrasten des Federelements in seiner Endstellung, wobei die Verrastung gegenüber dem Element erfolgt, an dem das Federelement befestigt ist.

The covering according to the invention comprises mechanically interconnectable elements which have the following features:

• a. The elements have a corresponding profiling, via which adjacent elements can be locked together during assembly;
• b. The locking is effected by at least one spring element, which is articulated on one of the elements and which is pivotable in the joining movement behind a locking edge of a groove of the adjacent element;
• c. The spring element is an integral part of the element before the joining movement, wherein the one-piece connection between the spring element and the element is configured as a predetermined breaking point, which is intended to break during pivoting of the spring element;
• d. The spring element is additionally partially connected via an elastic material with the element.
• e. The spring element has means for positive and / or non-positive locking of the spring element in its end position, wherein the latching takes place relative to the element to which the spring element is attached.

Under a positive and / or non-positive locking snap connections are to be understood in particular, in which two components into each other and are pressed into each other so that friction creates a frictional connection and thereby an automatic sliding of the surfaces in contact is prevented. Alternatively or additionally, a form fit can occur, d. H. geometries interfere with each other, which prevent an automatic relocation of the mutually engaged components.

It is possible to provide means to improve the positive or frictional connection, be it by providing the inter-engaging surfaces at least partially with a coating having a high coefficient of friction and / or by intermeshing the surfaces in one and the same way Be profiled that obstructing slipping. By locking the spring element in its end position, d. H. in its pivoted-in position, the covering provided with the spring element can remain securely in the detent position.

The spring element can also be swung back again, as well as in the locked position, the elastic material is not separated from the spring element, but because he keeps the spring element still on the element. The spring element can even be solved several times from the end position, d. H. be released and then locked again. The only difference in the second and subsequent gift compared to the first pivoting is that the spring element in the starting position is no longer an integral part of the element, but after initial pivoting and the breakage of the predetermined breaking point between the initial and the final position is freely pivoted.

With the elements according to the invention, it is therefore possible to lock the elements together by means of a substantially vertical or pivoting joining movement in the horizontal direction and in the vertical direction. For example, if a misplaced first element is longitudinally connected to an element to be applied, the element to be applied must be folded down for connection to a third element. In this folding down, the said spring element can be used on the side of the element to be laid on the side of the strin. The spring element is then pivoted into the frontal, already laid element. The spring element breaks at the predetermined breaking point, is held over the elastic material and is pivoted on further folding of the element to be laid in the end position where the spring element locked with the now swung down element and remains in this detent position.

As described above, these spring elements can be provided in particular on the top sides of the elements. Header pages are the short element pages. The profiling can in principle be provided on all sides, that is to say on the top sides and the longitudinal sides, of the preferably rectangular elements.

At least one spring element is provided on one side of an element. It is conceivable, at head ends that can not be pressed down parallel to already laid panels, but are folded down, the spring element form several pieces. That is, on one of the elements a plurality of spring elements are arranged on one side, which may be spaced apart from each other or may also be immediately adjacent. Adjacent spring elements can be coupled to one another via an elastic material. The separate spring elements are gradually pivoted behind a locking edge of a groove of the adjacent element. The locking edge extends substantially in the horizontal direction, so that the two interlockable elements against displacement in the vertical direction, d. H. are secured perpendicular to the laying plane. Additional locking strips may be provided on the elements to provide, in addition to the vertical locking, also the locking in the laying plane, i. H. to effect in a horizontal direction.

Preferably, the means for locking the spring element are at least partially uniform material integral part of the spring element. That is, they are made of the same material as the spring element, which in turn consists of the same material as at least the core of the element. The element itself, can be multi-layered, as it is typical for floor coverings. Manufacturing technology, it is easiest that the locking means are formed at least partially uniform material integral with the spring elements. If possible, such means for locking by milling processes in a continuous process can be made easily and quickly.

But with the invention it is also possible to provide means for locking, which are connected to the spring element. In this case, these are separate components, such as a protruding strip made of plastic, which is applied to the spring element due to their possibly more suitable for locking material properties.

Preferably, the means for locking are at least partially formed as a father's piece, for engaging in a trained as a mother piece recording on the element. Of course, the reverse variant is possible in which the means for locking are at least partially formed as a nut piece, for receiving a shoulder formed as a father piece on the element. Since more material is usually attached to the element to form a nut piece, i. H. is for forming a groove or a concave recess available, is preferably designed as a nut piece receptacle on the element. But it is also conceivable that both are formed on the spring and the element, d. H. there are on the element both a trained as a nut piece receptacle, as well as serving as a fatherpiece part for engaging in a nut piece on the spring element, which nevertheless as a means for locking additionally has a father element. Due to the close proximity of the two components, this results in an S or Z-shaped contour, which have the necessary for a positive engagement undercuts or groove surfaces.

To support the spring element in the pivoted position, it is possible that on the element next to the receptacle or next to a projection, d. H. the coupling means, which engage with the means for latching the spring elements, an abutment shoulder is formed. The abutment shoulder extends substantially horizontally, that is to say in the laying plane.

In the engaged position, in which the spring element is completely pivoted and is locked relative to the element, the spring element with maximum depth engages in the corresponding groove of the adjacent element. The groove wall of the groove, which is closer to the upper side of the element and which carries the locking edge, is preferably formed in alignment with the contact shoulder in the installed position. The contact shoulder and the top groove wall form the upper limit for the spring element. If a force is introduced from the element carrying the spring element into the contact shoulder and thus into the spring element from above, the force is introduced into the adjacent element via the groove wall of the groove of the adjacent element opposite the locking edge, so that both elements are in the coupling region be pressed down evenly.

In addition, in the groove of the adjacent element, i. H. in the groove, on which also the locking edge is formed and in which engages the spring element, an undercut may be formed. Such an undercut is a special feature, since the spring element for locking in the vertical direction does not have to engage in an undercut. In addition, however, the spring element can engage in this undercut, with the result that by the spring element also a further Verrieglung can be effected in the laying plane. This engaging behind the undercut leads in addition to an improved form-fitting.

It is in the engagement with the undercut of the adjacent element turn to means for positive locking engagement of the spring element, in addition to the corresponding means for positive and / or non-positive locking of the spring element relative to the own spring element. In this double locking of the spring element, a further increased locking security of the spring element is effected.

For locking with the adjacent groove, a means for positive and / or non-positive engagement may be formed in the region of the free end of the spring element. It is in particular a projection, which engages behind the undercut during pivoting of the spring element during locking. As a result, the spring element is secured against being pulled out in the direction of the mouth of the groove.

The means for locking relative to the own spring element can be embodied, for example, as a bead, which is rounded in cross-section and can be pivoted into a receptacle designed as a rounded groove. The bead and the groove may be dimensioned differently in cross section, so that the bead summarizes in the groove similar to a push-button principle. The bead has a different radius or a different degree of curvature on its surface than the receptacle for the bead. As a result, an undercut can be formed in the receptacle. The radii of the receptacle and bead deviate only insignificantly from one another in the area of the contact surfaces. It is essential that the spring element can be easily pivoted into the groove, when pivoting a certain resistance overcomes and then introduced into the groove, there snaps and remains automatically.

It is less important that the recording or the bead in cross-section is completely rounded, rather than the fact that the engagement surfaces are coordinated in the manner described above. Therefore, the means for latching on the spring element can also be embodied as a bead which is substantially rectangular in cross-section and which engages in a substantially rectangular groove as a receptacle. Again, the dimensions of the groove and bead may differ slightly from each other, so that the desired positive and / or adhesion is achieved.

It should also be noted that the penetration depth of the bead into the receptacle can be limited by the fact that the spring element laterally engages the receptacle on the element. As a result, the spring element engages only with limited depth in the respective recording. Thus, not only is it ensured that the spring element is in the correct position relative to the receptacle, but also that the spring element does not pivot too far and that the elastic material is not excessively squeezed.

Advantageously, the spring element is supported on both sides of the receptacle, namely on the one hand by the abutment shoulder explained above and on the other hand by a arranged on the other side of the receiving abutment surface. Of course, it is also possible within the scope of the invention that the means designed as a bead for latching against the groove bottom of the receptacle, so that there is a further limitation.

The configuration of the receptacle or the means for latching is chosen such that the spring element when pivoting into an end position with the element to which the spring element is attached by means of a holding force is locked, which is greater than a restoring force of the elastic material. As a result, the spring element can not be automatically pulled back to its original position. It has to be manipulated from the outside, d. H. be actively released from the locking position. This is possible by moving the adjacent elements against the joining direction. This means that the element with the spring element must be raised. The spring element is thereby strongly pressed against the locking edge. At the same time the restoring force of the elastic material is supported so far that the holding force in the region of the means for locking is no longer sufficient to hold the spring element in the end position. The spring element now begins to slide along the locking edge out of the groove, so that the element with the spring element can be completely lifted and, if necessary, can be relocated again, which is extremely easy to install.

When joining the free end of the spring element is in turn brought into contact with the adjacent element. The spring element comes into contact with a support surface of this element, slides on this support surface and is displaced facing towards the groove of the adjacent element.

According to the invention it is provided that the support surface of the adjacent element is concavely curved, while the free end of the spring element in the contact region with the support surface is at least partially convexly curved. The concave and convex curvature are not congruent, but coordinated so that the spring element engages during pivoting substantially backlash in the groove of the adjacent element and grasps behind the locking edge. Preferably, both surfaces are inclined in the inventive arrangement. This has the advantage that the spring element in the initial state can be substantially perpendicular to the laying. This has manufacturing advantages. At the same time, the concavely curved support surface or the support surface, which is inclined at least relative to the laying plane, causes the spring element to pass more easily from the starting position into the end position than to a support surface which extends horizontally. In addition, by means of concave support surfaces or convex contact areas, the force initially necessary for the predetermined breaking of the spring element can be applied very easily, without the laying process being hindered. Any fragments from the predetermined breaking point fall down and can collect in the concave curved support surface, which is virtually formed as a trough, without affecting the locking process or disturb.

In order to simplify the pivoting of the spring element, the spring element has a crimping, in which the elastic material is arranged. An elastic material has a greater elasticity than the spring element, so that it does not break during bending. The opposing walls in the region of the crimping can be at least partially, in particular over the entire surface coated with the elastic material, wherein the coatings are arranged in the unlocked state at a distance from each other and are in the locked state in contact. The mutually contacting coatings may stick together when in contact with each other. As a result, in addition to the positive and / or non-positive locking still a cohesive connection can be realized by bonding. The elastic material can therefore be an adhesive.

The covering according to the invention is not necessarily a floor covering. It can also be a wall or ceiling covering. Important in connection with superficially closed coverings is that the locking is not only vertical to the laying level but also in the laying level. For this purpose, a locking edge exhibiting element has a bearing element under the spring element cross-locking bar. The locking strip is suitable to secure the adjacent elements against tensile stress in a laying plane. The additional locking strip primarily absorbs horizontal tensile forces, ie tensile loads in the laying plane. This ensures that no joint gap remains at the top. The entry of liquid and dirt in any gaps is prevented.

The material for the spring element or the proportion of the element from which the spring element is made, may be both a wood material, d. H. it may be wood or a wood fiber material, or a material made of wood as a base material, such as liquid wood. In the spring element or the proportion of the lining, from which the spring element is made, it may also be a composite material. The use of mixed plastics is just as possible as the use of materials based on thermoplastic or thermosetting plastics.

The concept of the invention is applicable to all floor systems and wall systems in which a topping on a support, in which it is in particular a wood-based panel, such. As a MDF or chipboard is arranged, such as real wood coverings, laminate, support with painted surfaces as a topping, linoleum, cork on support plates, etc. The cover layer may in particular consist of a decorative paper with overlay, which determines the appearance of the elements. A floor covering may thus be a parquet floor, a finished parquet floor, a real wood floor or a laminate floor. Likewise, elements of solid materials such as wooden planks, wooden elements, molded plastic mold plates, plastics, moldings or gypsum boards are suitable. The inventive idea does not only relate to the connection of identical elements. It is also conceivable to carry out an element as a frame component for frame floors or raised floors. In such an application, one of the elements to be connected is configured as a panel and a second element as a frame component. The panel is placed in the assembly of one or more frame members existing frame structures during assembly and locked with his head and / or sides.

The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the embodiments illustrated in schematic drawings for connecting two elements in the form of panels. Of course, the connections shown are readily transferable to the connection between a frame member and a panel.

Show it:

1 a cross section through the connecting portion of two adjacent elements in a still unlocked position;

2 a cross section through the connecting region of two adjacent elements with different positions of a spring element;

3 a cross section through the connecting region of two adjacent elements in the locking position;

4 a cross-section through the connecting portion of two adjacent elements in the Verrieglungsposition in a second embodiment;

5 a cross section through the connecting region of two adjacent elements with a fixed tongue and groove connection;

6 a cross section through the connecting region of two adjacent elements in a further embodiment;

7 a cross section through the connecting region of two adjacent elements with different positions;

8th a cross section through the connecting region of two adjacent elements in the locking position in a further embodiment;

9 a cross section through the connection region of an element in a further embodiment;

10 a cross section through the connecting region of two adjacent elements in the starting position;

11 the cross section through the connecting region of two adjacent elements in the locking position;

12 a cross section through the connecting region of two adjacent elements with fixed tongue and groove connection;

13 a cross section through the connecting region of two adjacent elements in a further embodiment;

14 a cross section through the connecting region of two adjacent elements in a further embodiment.

In the following description of the figures, essentially identical components are identified by the same reference symbols in the different exemplary embodiments.

1 shows a cross section through two elements 1 . 2 in the form of panels. The panels are square, with square in this context may mean both rectangular and square. For rectangular panels, there are longer and narrower sides. The longer sides are called the long sides and the shorter sides the head sides. For square panels, this distinction does not matter.

In the illustrated embodiment is the representation of two identically configured panels, which are configured at their opposite sides so that they can be locked and locked with other identically configured panels in the manner shown. The illustrated elements 1 . 2 are configured identically so that the elements 1 . 2 to a covering, in particular to a floor covering can be assembled.

1 shows two adjacent elements 1 . 2 before the lock. The illustration on the left shows a first element 1 and on the right a second element 2 , which is intended for, with the first element 1 to be connected. The first element 1 has a locking bar 3 on and the second element 2 a downwardly open dome channel 4 and an adjoining, downwardly directed dome bulge 5 , The locking bar 3 of the first element 1 faces a head page, which in this embodiment only as a page 6 is designated before. The element 2 becomes so opposite the element 1 angeorndet that when lowering in the direction of arrow P dome bulge 5 of the second element 2 with a dome channel 7 the locking bar 3 and the dome channel 4 of the second element with the dome bulge 8th the locking bar 3 engaged. This area of the elements 1 . 2 essentially serves for positional orientation in the horizontal plane, horizontally in the context of the invention corresponding to the laying level V, which corresponds to the mutually parallel upper sides 9 and subpages 10 of the elements 1 . 2 coincides.

An essential part of the profiling according to the invention is a spring element 11 , The spring element 11 is a substantially down, ie from the top 9 away, directed tongue, which is formed by a rectangular in cross-section space 12 to the core 15 of the element 2 is formed. The spring element 11 is with its upper end 13 with the element 2 connected. It can be seen that on the free space 12 opposite side of a crimp 14 is designed as a notch. The pinch joint 14 is a thickness of the spring element 11 reducing constriction.

The spring element 11 owns a means 16 for positive and / or non-positive locking of the spring element 11 , The means 16 for locking in this exemplary example uniform material integral part of the spring element 11 , It is a bead. This bead serves as a father piece, which is intended for, in a trained as a mother piece recording 17 am in the picture plane 16 right element 2 intervene. For this to be possible, the spring element must 11 towards the panel adjacent to the image plane 1 be pivoted. This is done by having the free end 18 when moving in the direction of the arrow P, ie when lowering the right element 2 down on a support surface 19 of the adjacent element 1 encounters.

The support surface 19 is concavely curved. The free end 18 is in his contact area 20 with which it is with the support surface 19 comes into contact, convexly curved. The curvatures are coordinated. As a result, a force in the direction of the arrow F is exerted when lowering, which causes the spring element 11 at the upper end 13 in the area of the footbridge 21 breaks. The dock is intended for this purpose. It is a breaking point. Nevertheless, the spring element 11 not completely free in his movement. It is about an elastic material 22 held. The elastic material 22 is between the upper end 13 on the adjacent element 1 arranged facing side. The elastic material is arcuately curved in the starting position. This results in the front side of a V-shaped notch 23 that allows the spring element 11 in the presentation of the 1 to turn clockwise. The pivot point of the pivoting movement is approximately in the middle of the elastic material 22 ie in the lowest part of the notch 23 , The horizontal line drawn there intersects the pivot axis about which the spring element 11 is pivotable.

The free end 18 of the spring element 11 when swiveling towards the adjacent element 1 relocated. For this purpose, a groove is on the adjacent element 24 to receive the spring element 11 intended. The groove is essentially configured horizontally, has an upper groove flank 25 and a lower groove flank 26 , The lower groove flank 26 is slightly inclined, so that the groove 24 extended to its mouth. The lower groove flank 26 goes into the concave support surface 19 above. The contact area 20 of the spring element 11 So slides over a transition point 27 between the support surface 19 and the subsequent straight groove flank 26 ,

Also the upper groove flank 15 extends the mouth side of the groove 24 , About above the transition point 27 there is a locking edge 28 , on which the horizontal upper groove flank 25 in a groove widening the groove mouth 29 passes. The spring element 11 has at a displacement in the direction of the arrow P, ie when lowering the element 2 only the possibility according to the inclination of the support surface 19 slide off on this. 2 shows the spring element 11 in various intermediate positions, before the in 3 reached shown end position. It can be seen that when pivoting the means for locking 16 in the recording 17 is pivoted. The means for locking 16 is not in the starting position on the front page 31 of the right element in the picture plane 2 in front. A front side 30 of the spring element 11 extends in the in 1 illustrated starting position perpendicular to the laying plane.

In the snap position, as in 3 is shown, this end face 31 placed in a horizontal position, ie pivoted by 90 °. During pivoting, the elastic material 22 deformed. He possesses a certain restoring force, which in the representation of the 3 as a torque counterclockwise on the spring element 11 acts. The positive and / or non-positive locking between the means for locking 16 and the recording 17 causes a holding force. The holding force is greater than the restoring force, so that the spring element 11 would remain in the locked position even if it is not with the adjacent element 1 would be engaged. This will be the element 3 prevented in the latching position, that it by the restoring force of the elastic material 22 is raised again from the latched position, ie opposite to the arrow P ( 1 ) is relocated.

In the locking position is the spring element 11 on a stop surface 32 on, on the element 2 immediately adjacent to the elastic material 22 is trained. This stop surface 32 limits the pivoting movement or the swivel angle.

3 also shows that in the locked position the front 30 of the spring element 11 in the horizontal position on the upper groove flank 25 is applied. At the same time lies the contact area 20 of the spring element near the transition point 27 at the lower groove flank 26 at. The tops 9 of the elements 1 . 2 are aligned and held in the position shown. The right-hand panel in the picture plane 2 can not be further lowered because of the means for locking 16 a force in the direction of arrow P on the upper element 2 is transmitted near the transition point 27 in the lower groove flank 26 of the adjacent element 1 transfers. In addition, there are the dome bulge 5 of the right element in the picture plane 2 with the dome channel 7 the other element in engagement, so that also takes a backup in the horizontal direction.

The special feature of the positive and / or non-positive locking is that the means for locking 16 is formed with a bead having a slightly different radius than the recording 17 , As a result, these two components dig into each other 1 . 2 which are formed as a father and mother piece, such that they are not on their own or under the influence of the restoring force of the elastic material 22 can separate again from each other.

4 shows an embodiment, that of the 1 to 3 is very similar. The only difference with the previous embodiment is that on the element 2 , on which the spring element is arranged, adjacent to the receptacle 17 a contact shoulder 33 is trained. The contact shoulder 33 and the stop surface 22 limit the intake 17 between themselves. The contact shoulder 33 is horizontally oriented. At the contact shoulder 33 lies the front 30 of the spring element 11 at. About the contact shoulder 33 Lets take a force from the top to the right element 2 acts even better in the spring element 11 initiate without taking the picture 17 or the means for latching 16 to be stressed too much. In addition, the abutment shoulder serves 33 as well as the stop surface 32 as a limitation for the pivot angle of the spring element 11 , All other components are essentially identical to those of the 1 to 3 , so that reference is made to the explanation there.

5 illustrates that the profile geometry of the left-most element in the image plane 1 not only suitable with one element 2 be latched, which with a displaceable spring element 11 is provided. Rather, the element can 2 also with a fixed spring 34 engage. This type of tongue and groove connection is, for example, on two of four sides of a quadratic or rectangular element 1 . 2 possible, while on two other sides, the connection by means of the pivotable spring element is used. Consequently, it is possible for an element 1 . 2 one fixed spring each 34 and a pivotable spring element 11 owns on another side. 5 moreover, shows that the concave support surface 19 in a tongue and groove connection with a fixed spring 34 is not disturbing and has no influence on the strength of this connection.

The 6 to 8th show analogous to the embodiment of the 1 to 3 an embodiment of interlockable elements 1 . 2 in which, however, the means 16 for locking on the spring element 11 something is structured differently. The same reference numerals as in the 1 to 3 used because the function of all components is identical, even if they differ in their geometry in part.

The main difference is that the spring element 11 further opposite the front side 31 is set back, indicating the abutment shoulder 33 is due, as in 4 has been explained. In addition, the trained as a father piece means for locking 16 no more than a cross-sectionally semi-cylindrical bead. The means for locking 16 rather has a rectangular contour with rounded corners. The recording 17 is configured in the widest sense opposite. It turns out, however, that in the latching position ( 8th ) the means for locking 16 not to the bottom of the groove 35 the recording 17 protrudes. The element in the direction of the arrow F1 2 acting force is therefore not on the means for locking 16 in the adjacent element 1 but via the contact shoulder 33 and the front side 31 of the spring element 11 ,

In addition, in the embodiment of the 6 to 8th to realize that the groove 24 something different is designed. The lower groove flank 25 and the concave support surface 19 limit a horizontal locking surface 36 on which a back 37 of the spring element 11 rests in the engaged position. As a result, the sum of the horizontal support surfaces between the upper and lower boundary of the groove 24 increased. Incidentally, the pivoting of the spring element takes place 11 in the same way as it is in 2 is shown. Regarding the explanation of 7 is therefore on the explanation of 2 Referenced.

Another variant of interconnectable elements show the 9 to 11 , 9 shows the element 1 with the spring element 11 , The spring element 11 is essentially identically configured to the embodiment of FIG 6 to 8th , The difference is that the spring element 11 at its free end 18 a lead 38 having. The lead 38 is hook-shaped and stands at the front 30 of the spring element 11 in front. The front 30 is in a sense opposite to the upper end 13 arranged means for locking 16 and the lead 38 moved back. The means for locking 16 is formed as in the previous embodiment as a substantially rectangular bead. The lead 38 rises from the front 30 on its the means of latching 16 facing side vertically from the front 30 , To the lowest end of the spring element 11 down the lead 38 wedge-shaped.

Another difference is that the spring element 11 not oriented perpendicular to the previous embodiments, but is at an angle to the vertical. That means that the free end 18 opposite the upper end 13 further from the front 31 is back, as it is in the starting position according to 9 is shown. Accordingly, the rectangular shaped space is also 12 , which is parallel to the back 37 runs at an angle to the vertical.

10 shows the element 2 of the 9 just before joining with the matching element 1 , It can be seen that the groove 24 in the adjacent element 1 slightly different than in the previous variants is formed. In the upper groove flank 25 there is an undercut 39 , The undercut is configured triangular, according to the contour of the projection 38 , In addition, it can be seen that the lower groove flank 26 slightly concave rounded and turn a horizontal locking surface 36 limited, to which a transition point 27 connects where the concave support surface 19 starts. On the support surface 19 supports the lower end 18 of the spring element during pivoting off.

11 shows the locking position. It can be seen that the spring element 11 in the area of its top now not only in the element 2 but also with the element 1 in a manner communicating so as to provide additional train security in the laying plane V. This is achieved by having the lead 38 in the undercut 39 grips and at the same time the means for latching 16 in the recording 17 of the other element 2 attacks. The spring element 11 causes not only a catch in the vertical direction but also in addition in the horizontal direction, ie in the laying plane.

12 shows that even such a profiled element 1 can be used with a fixed tongue and groove connection. The feather 34 is exemplified as a fixed spring, which virtually replaces the movable spring element. Neither the undercut 39 , nor the concave support surface 19 are disturbing. It can still be realized a fixed tongue and groove connection in a conventional design.

The embodiment of 13 shows two elements 1 . 2 in the locking position. The spring element 11 is in turn via an elastic material 22 on the right element 2 held. It can be seen, however, that the means for locking 16 on the spring element 11 in this case is not a protruding bead, but are formed as a cross-sectionally triangular groove, whereas on the element 1 a lead 40 is formed, which engages in the matching groove. It is the reverse configuration to the previous embodiments. The father piece is now on the element 2 while the associated nut piece on the spring element 11 is trained. At the same time is located on the element 2 a contact shoulder 33 , which at a different height level, ie in the vertical direction higher above the projection 40 , is arranged. A corresponding support bar 41 serves as a counter surface for the abutment shoulder 33 , In this area are the neighboring elements 1 . 2 aligned with each other in height and supported against each other. A train protection in the direction of the laying level is again via a locking bar 3 at the left in the picture plane element 1 and a corresponding Kuppelwulst 5 on the other element 2 ,

The embodiment of the 14 is different from the one of 13 in that the means for locking 16 on the spring element 11 are designed both as a father piece and as a mother piece. This results in a zigzag-shaped toothing between the means for locking 16 and corresponding counterparts, ie recordings 17 and protrusions 40 on the element 2 , Another difference is that the said means for latching 16 or the lead 40 and the recording 17 in the engaged position to the front side 31 of the right element in the picture plane 2 are arranged. This results in that the right element in the image plane 2 also by the means for latching 16 is not displaceable in height. In addition, the free end is supported inside the groove 24 on an upper groove flank 25 off, with the locking edge 28 very close to the means of locking 16 is arranged. This results in a very short way to transfer power from the right element 2 on the left in the picture plane element 1 , This has the advantage that few bending moments in the spring element 11 be initiated, so that the connection is very stable.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

element

2

element

3

locking bar

4

dome channel

5

Kuppelwulst

6

page

7

dome channel

8th

Kuppelwulst

9

top

10

bottom

11

spring element

12

free space

13

top end

14

squeezing nip

15

core

16

Means for latching

17

admission

18

free end

19

support surface

20

contact area

21

web

22

elastic material

23

notch

24

groove

25

upper groove flank

26

lower groove flank

27

Transition point

28

locking edge

29

chamfer

30

front

31

front

32

stop surface

33

contact shoulder

34

feather

35

groove base

36

Rest area

37

back

38

head Start

39

undercut

40

head Start

41

Auflagerleiste

P

arrow

F

force

F1

force

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• DE 202007018662 U1 [0004]
• DE 102009048050 B3 [0005]
• DE 202010017748 U1 [0006]

Claims (12)

Covering of mechanically interconnectable elements having the following features: a. The Elements ( 1 . 2 ) have at their sides to be joined ( 6 . 31 ) has a corresponding profiling, via which adjacent elements ( 1 . 2 ) are locked together during assembly; b. The lock is achieved by at least one spring element ( 11 ), which on one of the elements ( 2 ) is hinged and which in the joining movement behind a locking edge ( 28 ) a groove ( 24 ) of the adjacent element ( 1 ) is pivotable; c. The spring element ( 11 ) is an integral part of the element before the joining movement ( 2 ), wherein the one-piece connection between the spring element ( 11 ) and the element ( 2 ) is configured as a predetermined breaking point, which is intended, when pivoting the spring element ( 11 ) to break; d. The spring element ( 11 ) is additionally partially by an elastic material ( 22 ) with the element ( 2 ), characterized e. that on the spring element ( 11 ) Medium ( 16 ) for positive and / or non-positive locking of the spring element ( 11 ) are arranged in its end position, wherein the locking relative to the element ( 2 ) takes place at which the spring element ( 11 ) is attached. Covering according to claim 1, characterized in that the locking means ( 16 ) at least partially integrally material integral part of the spring element ( 11 ) are. Covering according to claim 1, characterized in that the locking means ( 16 ) with the spring element ( 11 ) are connected. Covering according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the means for latching ( 16 ) are at least partially formed as a male piece, for engaging in a trained as a mother piece recording ( 17 ) on the element ( 2 ). Covering according to Claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the means for latching ( 16 ) are at least partially formed as a nut piece, for receiving a trained as a fatherpiece projection ( 40 ) on the element ( 2 ). Covering according to one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that in addition to the receptacle ( 17 ) an abutment shoulder ( 32 ) on this element ( 2 ), wherein the spring element ( 11 ) in the locked state on the abutment shoulder ( 32 ) is supported. Covering according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that in the groove ( 24 ) of the adjacent element ( 1 ) into which the spring element ( 11 ) engages an undercut ( 39 ) is formed, with which the spring element ( 11 ) is engaged in the locking position. Covering according to claim 7, characterized in that in the region of the free end ( 18 ) of the spring element ( 11 ) a lead ( 38 ) is formed, which during pivoting of the spring element ( 11 ) while locking behind the undercut ( 39 ), so that the spring element ( 11 ) against pulling towards the mouth of the groove ( 24 ) is secured. Covering according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the means ( 16 ) is designed for locking as a cross-sectionally rounded bead, which in a recess formed as a rounded groove ( 17 ) is einschwenkbar. Covering according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the means ( 16 ) is designed to latch as in cross-section substantially rectangular bead which is formed in a substantially rectangular groove as a receptacle ( 17 ) sums up. Covering according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the spring element ( 11 ) when pivoting in an end position with the element ( 2 ), on which the spring element ( 11 ) is latched by means of a holding force which is greater than a restoring force of the elastic material ( 22 ), so that the spring element ( 11 ) can not automatically return to its original position. Covering according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that a free end ( 18 ) of the spring element ( 11 ) when joining adjacent elements ( 1 . 2 ) on a support surface ( 19 ) of the adjacent element ( 1 ), which is concavely curved, while the free end ( 18 ) in his contact area ( 20 ) with the support surface ( 19 ) is convexly curved at least in some areas.

Images