DE202023102907U1 - Device for testing panels - Google Patents

Abstract

Device (3) for testing panels which are equipped on at least a first pair of opposite edges (4-5) with profiled edge regions which are provided with coupling parts (8) which enable a mutual connection of two of these panels (1), whereby the coupling parts (8) are essentially designed as a tongue (9) and a groove (10), the groove (10) being delimited at least by an upper groove lip (11) and a lower groove lip (12), and wherein the tongue (9 ) and the groove (10) are provided with locking parts which prevent the tongue (9) and the groove (10) from moving apart, wherein, in a coupled state, a locking between the relevant edges (4-5) in a direction ( V) perpendicular to the plane (19) of the connected panels (1) and in a direction (H) in the plane (19) of the connected panels (1) and perpendicular to the connected edges (4-5), the device is designed and designed to accommodate at least a first part (20) and a second part (21) of the cross-sectional contour of a first of the above-mentioned profiled edge regions with at least one sensor (22, 22A, 23), the device (3) also being is set up and designed so that the recording of the first part (20) takes place from a first recording angle (A1), and that of the second part (21) takes place from a second recording angle (A2), which differs from the first recording angle (A1). , but each from a receiving direction transverse to the longitudinal direction (L) of the corresponding edge (5).

Description

The present invention relates to a device for testing panels, with which a method for carrying out quality control on panels can be carried out. The present invention is primarily concerned with checking decorative panels that are to be used as panels of a floating floor covering. Other applications are not excluded, such as applications for panels that are glued to a surface or for wall or ceiling panels.

WO 97/47834 discloses decorative laminate floor panels which are provided on at least the first pair of opposite edges with profiled edge regions which include coupling parts which enable the coupling of two such panels to one another, the above-mentioned coupling parts being essentially formed as a tongue and groove, the groove being at least through an upper and a lower groove lip is defined, and wherein the above-mentioned tongue and groove are provided with locking parts which prevent the tongue and the groove from moving apart, wherein in the connected state locking in one direction can be obtained, which perpendicular to the plane of the connected panels and in a direction that is perpendicular to the plane of the connected panels and perpendicular to the connected edges. Such panels are ideal for use on floating floor coverings. WO`834 further discloses that the contour of the profiled edge regions can be achieved by subjecting the panels with their respective edges to successive mechanical cutting operations with rotary milling tools. This is a continuous milling process, ie a process in which the panels are carried by the milling machine in the feed direction and thus moved with their edges over the otherwise fixed rotary milling tools. The wear of the milling tools, the inaccuracy of the feedthrough device and the forces exerted by the milling tools on the edges of the panels can lead to deviations in the above-mentioned contour.

The prior art indicates that such panels should be tested either by conducting an assembly test in which the coupling parts of several such panels are assembled, or by inserting a template into the coupling part to be tested, or by carrying out destructive tests, with a sample transversely is pulled out of the respective edge area and checked from the longitudinal direction of the respective edge area under a projector or another optical system. Such panel testing methods are inherently error-prone, and highly dependent on the person conducting the test. For example, assembly testing cannot ensure that there will be no consistent defects, and in the production of the above sample, the thickness and the variation of the thickness of the sample can have a large impact on the testing. In addition, producing samples is time-consuming and the tested panels are destroyed.

The main object of the present invention is to provide a panel testing apparatus which, according to various preferred embodiments, provides a solution to the problems associated with the prior art.

This object is achieved according to the invention by a device for testing panels. With this, a method can be carried out, wherein the above-mentioned panels are provided on at least a first pair of opposite edges with profiled edge regions which are equipped with coupling parts through which two of these panels can be connected to one another, the above-mentioned coupling parts being essentially as Tongue and groove are formed, the groove being delimited at least by an upper and a lower groove lip, and wherein the tongue and the groove mentioned above are provided with locking parts which prevent the tongue and the groove from moving apart, in which connected state, a locking device between the respective edges in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the connected panels and in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the connected panels and perpendicular to the connected edges, the method comprising at least the step of receiving at least a first part and a second part of the cross-sectional contour of a first of the edge regions profiled above, wherein the first part and the second part are recorded when using one or more sensors, the recording of the first part taking place from a first recording angle and that of the second part from a second Recording angle, which differs from the first above-mentioned recording angle, takes place, but in each case from one or more recording directions transverse to the longitudinal direction of the edge in question.

By using two different shooting angles, an inspection can create a full-length view of the contour of the profiled edge area, even if there are undercut or undercut profile parts in the contour. For example, the above-mentioned locking parts can be undercut or undercut tenen parts can be formed. It is clear that a complete view of the contour does not necessarily have to be formed. For example, the test and the relevant recordings of the first part and the second part can be limited to recordings of a first part and a second part which, in the above-mentioned connected state, comprise part of one or more intended contact and/or locking surfaces. The precise formation of such surfaces is crucial in order to obtain and maintain a good connection between two such panels in their connected state.

Preferably, based on the first part and the second part, at least a part of the contour, which preferably extends continuously from a surface which is provided as a vertically active contact surface between the top of the spring and the bottom of the upper lip, becomes one Surface that acts as a horizontal locking surface, e.g. B. is provided as a horizontal locking surface on the top of the lower groove lip or on the underside of the spring. For example, based on the first part and the second part, at least a part of the contour, preferably continuous, from the upper surface or trim surface of the panels to a horizontal locking surface, for example as a horizontal locking surface on the top of the lower groove or on the surface provided on the underside of the spring. Better yet, based on the first part and the second part, at least a part of the contour, preferably extending continuously from the top surface or trim surface of the panels to the bottom of the panels, is included.

The above-mentioned first and second parts of the contour may or may not overlap and/or may or may not connect. Preferably the first part and the second part overlap at their connection. Such a connection preferably takes place on a part of the contour that is free of surfaces intended as contact surfaces and/or locking surfaces. Such a connection preferably takes place on a part of the contour which, in the connected state, delimits a free space between the cross-sectional area of the above-mentioned tongue and groove.

According to a special embodiment, the first part and the second part comprise at least one common contact surface and/or locking surface, preferably a common vertical active contact surface, for example a vertically active contact surface between the bottom of the tongue and the top of the lower groove lip. In this way, the recording of the relevant contact surface and/or locking surface can be carried out more precisely.

Recording the first part and the second part can be done in different ways.

According to a first possibility, at least the above-mentioned first and second parts are recorded with the same first sensor. Preferably, the first sensor is installed rotatably, and the above-mentioned first and second recording angles are assumed by positioning, for example by rotating, the above-mentioned first sensor. The recording angle can be adjusted, for example by turning, by motor and/or manually. According to a variant, the first sensor can perform recording at different angles, for example in that the recording medium, such as light in the case of an optical sensor, can be deflected at different angles, for example by means of one or more reflectors or mirrors. Preferably, the first sensor can be rotated to an angle of at least 45°, and even better to an angle of at least 90°.

According to a second possibility, the above-mentioned first and second parts are recorded at least by separate sensors. The separate sensors are preferably fixed, at least when carrying out the above-mentioned recordings. However, the separate sensors can be taken between shots, for example to set up the shot. The setting can be motorized and/or manual.

Preferably, the above-mentioned recording directions are perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the edge in question. This allows for easy-to-recover recordings. For example, one or more sensors can be used that are active in a plane perpendicular to the above-mentioned longitudinal direction.

Preferably, the first part and the second part of the contour are in the same plane or are separated longitudinally over a distance of less than ten times the thickness of the panels. This ensures that the recording of the first and second parts relates to the same or almost the same cross section of the profile frame in question. In this way, examination of the recording can be made easily and any diagnosis can be made with respect to observed deviations from the planned contour. In the frequently used methods for creating profiled edge areas, especially if the profiled edge areas are achieved with turning milling tools, there are different length distance deviations of less than ten times the panel thickness and can therefore represent an accurate image even if the parts are separated lengthwise. If different deviations occur over such short distances, it can be assumed that such deviations can be recognized without the use of advanced testing techniques and/or that they occur when the holders of the first part and the second part are attached next to each other.

Preferably, sensors are used that enable distance and/or profile measurement, for example laser distance or laser profilers. Preferably, such a sensor makes it possible to measure the distance to several points of the relevant contour part, preferably with a resolution of more than 10 points per millimeter or even more than 1000 points per millimeter, while the recording angle is constant. This can be a sensor that can carry out a line scan of the relevant contour part.

According to a specific example, one or more 2D optical triangulation position sensors and/or one or more sensors are used, namely 2D triangulation position sensors available on the market under the name Keyence LJ-V7060.

According to the invention, it is not excluded that more than two recording angles can be used. The method preferably includes the step of recording a third part of the above-mentioned contour, the third part being recorded from a third recording angle which differs from the first and second recording angles, but also from one or more recording directions transverse to the, preferably perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the edge in question. The recording of the above third part can be done with the same sensor that is used for recording the first and / or the second part of the contour, or with a separate sensor. If the same sensor is used as for the first and/or second part, it is preferable to use a positionable or rotatable sensor or a sensor whose recording medium can be deflected as described above. The third part may completely or partially overlap the first and/or the second part or be substantially complementary to the first and the second part. The third recording angle can lie between the first and the second recording angle. This is particularly interesting if an overlap of the first and second parts is desired. According to a variant, the third recording angle can be larger and/or opposite to the first and/or the second recording angle.

Preferably, the above-mentioned first recording angle is in the plane of the panels, or the first recording angle includes an angle of 15° or less with this plane.

Preferably, the above-mentioned second recording angle is perpendicular to the plane of the panels or the second recording angle encloses an angle with the vertical of less than 45°, and preferably less than 35°.

• - der oben genannte erste Aufnahmewinkel befindet sich in der Ebene der Paneele oder schließt mit dieser Ebene einen Winkel von 15° oder weniger ein;
• - der oben genannte zweite Aufnahmewinkel ist senkrecht zur Ebene der Paneele, oder schließt mit der Vertikalen einen Winkel weniger als 45° und vorzugsweise weniger als 35 ein;
• - der oben genannte dritte Aufnahmewinkel ist, falls vorhanden, senkrecht zur Ebene der Paneele, oder schließt mit der Vertikalen einen Winkel weniger als 45° ein, vorzugsweise weniger als 35°, aber in der Weise, dass die dritte Aufnahmerichtung eine vertikale Komponente gegenüber der zuvor genannten zweiten Aufnahmerichtung aufweist.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the invention has the following features:

• - the above-mentioned first recording angle is in the plane of the panels or forms an angle of 15° or less with this plane;
• - the above-mentioned second recording angle is perpendicular to the plane of the panels, or forms an angle with the vertical of less than 45 ° and preferably less than 35;
• - the above-mentioned third recording angle, if present, is perpendicular to the plane of the panels, or encloses an angle with the vertical of less than 45°, preferably less than 35°, but in such a way that the third recording direction has a vertical component with respect to the has the aforementioned second recording direction.

Preferably, the above-mentioned lower groove lip extends distally behind the above-mentioned upper groove lip, and the above-mentioned locking parts include a projection on the upper surface of the above-mentioned lower lip and a recess on the underside of the above-mentioned tongue, in which, in the above mentioned connected state, horizontally active locking surfaces are formed, on the one hand on a proximal surface of the above-mentioned projection and on the other hand on a distal surface of the above-mentioned recess. In the case of such coupling parts and locking parts, the present invention is best applied. In the case of such coupling parts and locking parts, for example, an undercut or undercut part can be present next to the above-mentioned proximal surface of the projection and/or next to the above-mentioned distal surface of the recess. Such undercut or undercut parts of the contour can be in the shadow of the above-mentioned projection or the during the recording from the first recording angle or from the second recording angle Underside of the above-mentioned spring lie, so that a recording from only one recording angle can only produce an incomplete image of the contour of the respective profiled edge area.

Preferably, the first part and/or the second part of the contour comprises at least one of the above-mentioned horizontally active locking surfaces.

Preferably, the above-mentioned second recording angle corresponds or almost corresponds to the mean angle over which the above-mentioned horizontal active locking surface extends on the first profiled edge region to be tested. Preferably, the second recording angle mentioned above differs from this average angle by up to 10°, or up to 5°.

Preferably, in the above-mentioned connected state, vertically active contact surfaces are formed on the top of the above-mentioned tongue and the underside of the above-mentioned upper groove lip, the above-mentioned vertically active contact surfaces extending parallel to the plane of the panels or the above-mentioned vertically active ones Contact surfaces form an angle or an average angle of 45° or less, preferably 15° or less, with the plane of the panels. Such vertically active contact surfaces can lie in the shadow of the above-mentioned lower groove lip, especially in cases in which the lower groove lip extends over the upper groove lip, so that a recording from only one recording angle can only produce an incomplete image of the contour of the respective profiled edge region .

Preferably, the first part and/or the second part of the contour comprise at least one of the above-mentioned vertically active locking surfaces. Preferably, the above-mentioned first recording angle differs from this average angle by up to 10°, or by up to 5°.

Preferably, the first recording angle mentioned above corresponds or almost corresponds to the mean angle at which the vertically active contact surfaces mentioned above extend.

According to the most preferred embodiment, the first recording angle corresponds or almost corresponds to the average angle at which the said vertically active contact surfaces extend, and the second recording angle corresponds or almost corresponds to the average angle at which the above-mentioned horizontally active locking surfaces extend extend.

Preferably, the first above-mentioned profiled edge region comprises the above-mentioned groove.

Preferably, the method also includes the step of recording at least a part of the cross-sectional contour of the second of the above-mentioned profiled edge regions, for example the profiled edge region which comprises the spring. Preferably, the recording angles at which the one or more sensors are active are identical when recording the respective parts of both profiled edge regions or only deviate by 5° or less. Such an embodiment enables the use of the same device to test both profiled edge areas. However, it is not excluded that a separate device, preferably an identical or similar device, can be used to check the second, opposite, profiled edge region. The one or more sensors for recording the second profiled edge region may be part of one or the same device used by the sensors for recording the first profiled edge region. The first and second profiled edge regions can be recorded simultaneously or virtually simultaneously and/or without repositioning the panels to be tested.

Preferably, the above-mentioned panel is provided on at least a second pair of opposite edges with profiled edge portions provided with coupling parts allowing two such panels to be connected to each other, and the method also includes the step of receiving a part of one or both profiled Edge regions of the second pair of opposite edges.

Preferably, the recording angles at which the one or more sensors are active when they record the relevant regions of the two profiled edge regions of the second pair are identical or only deviate by 5° or less. Preferably, the respective recording angles are also identical or only deviate by 5° or less from the recording angles used to test one or both profiled edges of the first pair. Such an embodiment enables the use of the same device to test both pairs of profiled edge areas. However, it is not excluded that a separate device, preferably an identical or similar device, can be used to check one or both profiled edge regions of the second pair of profiled edge regions. The one or more sensors for recording one or both edge areas of the The second pair of profiled edge regions can be part of one or the same device that includes the sensors used to record one or both edge regions of the first pair of profiled edge regions. The recording of the first and second pair of profiled edge regions can take place simultaneously or virtually simultaneously and/or without repositioning the panels to be tested.

The coupling portions of the second pair of opposing edges may also be formed substantially as a tongue and groove with locking portions that prevent the tongue and groove from moving apart. According to a variant, the second pair of opposite edges has coupling parts which are essentially formed as a male coupling part and a female coupling part, wherein the male coupling part can be inserted into the female coupling part by a downward movement. It can be, for example, couplings as shown in WO 2021/111210 , WO 01/75247 , EP 2 440 724 or WO 2009/066153 are described, which may or may not be integral with the material of the panels.

Preferably, in a connected state of two such panels on the second pair of opposite edges, an interlock also occurs between the respective edges in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the connected panels and in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the connected panels on the connected edges.

According to a special embodiment, the above-mentioned first profiled longitudinal edge region can carry out a movement, preferably motor-driven, relative to the above-mentioned one or more sensors. For example, the sensors can be in a movable position while the panel is preferably fixed. In this way, recordings of the first and/or second part can be made at different points along the profiled edge region. The recordings of the first and second parts can be carried out alternately, but preferably so that a second part is separated from a first part at a distance of less than ten times the thickness of the panel.

• - der Schritt der Prüfung von den Paneelen in Übereinstimmung mit dem ersten unabhängigen Aspekt und/oder seiner bevorzugten Ausführungsformen, wobei mindestens ein erster Teil und ein zweiter Teil der Querschnittskontur eines der ersten der oben genannten profilierten Randbereiche aufgenommen wird, und
• - der Schritt des direkten oder indirekten Vergleichs mindestens eines der oben genannten Teile mit der gewünschten Geometrie des betreffenden Teils.

Also disclosed, according to a further independent aspect, is a device and a method for carrying out quality control on panels, the above-mentioned panels being provided with at least a first pair of opposite edges with profiled edge regions which are provided with coupling parts which ensure a mutual connection between two of them Panels enable, wherein the above-mentioned coupling parts essentially consist of a tongue and a groove, the groove being limited by at least an upper and a lower groove lip, and wherein the above-mentioned tongue and groove are provided with locking parts which allow the tongue to move apart and the groove, wherein, in the connected state, locking is obtainable in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the coupled panels and in a direction in the plane of the coupled panels and perpendicular to the connected edges, with at least the following features:

• - the step of testing the panels in accordance with the first independent aspect and/or its preferred embodiments, wherein at least a first part and a second part of the cross-sectional contour of one of the first of the above-mentioned profiled edge regions is recorded, and
• - the step of directly or indirectly comparing at least one of the above-mentioned parts with the desired geometry of the part in question.

By applying the test according to the first independent aspect, the quality control can be carried out quickly without having to prepare samples from the relevant peripheral areas. Quality control can be carried out completely non-destructively; moreover, it is less dependent or independent on the person performing the quality control.

According to the second independent aspect, panels with coupling parts can be manufactured more reliably. It is therefore clear that the present invention, according to a particularly independent aspect, also relates to an apparatus for a method for the production of panels, applying quality control with the characteristics of the second independent aspect and/or its preferred embodiments. Optionally, every panel produced can be tested, or regular or randomly scheduled samples can be carried out. For example, one or more panels can be tested per hour on one or more of the profiled edge areas. The recordings can be compared with the desired geometry of the relevant component of the recorded profiled edge area.

Preferably, deviations obtained in the above-mentioned comparison step are output or stored, and the above-mentioned deviations can preferably form the basis of a statistical process control based, for example, on the method of the Bil dung of the relevant profiled edge areas is applied. Statistical process control and/or monitoring can make it possible to monitor or predict the wear of work equipment so that they can, for example, be replaced preventively.

Preferably, deviations obtained in the above-mentioned step of comparison are stored, output or used to control the process of forming the relevant profiled edge regions, whether automatically or not. If the affected profiled edge regions are formed by a mechanical cutting operation with several successive rotary milling tools, the position of one or more of the rotary milling tools can be adjusted.

The device according to the invention is for use in a method according to one of the preceding aspects and/or the preferred embodiments thereof, wherein the device comprises at least one of the above-mentioned sensors.

Preferably, the device is provided with means for clamping the panels in question and/or means for aligning or positioning the panel in question relative to the above-mentioned sensors. These agents, either individually or in combination, can provide a more repeatable test result.

Preferably, the above-mentioned device automatically carries out the recording of the relevant part of the contour and/or comprises means for starting the step of recording the relevant part of the contour, these means being able to be activated by the user. These are, for example, a push button, a touch button, a contact that can be activated with sound or voice, a contact that can be activated with light or shadow, a contact that can be activated using a wireless or wired remote control, and the like.

Preferably, the device includes a handle and/or is equipped with a housing suitable for placement or attachment to a surface such as a wall or table.

The device preferably includes indication means that make it possible to provide information related to the quality and/or the result of the measurement. Indicators may include, for example, light indicators such as a beacon and/or noise indicators such as a sound when the measurement is being carried out, which sound and/or noise may be different for a well-performed and poorly carried out measurement, and/or for a measurement result, that meets the specified tolerances and a measurement result that does not meet the specified tolerances can be different.

The device preferably comprises one or more lighting parts, the above-mentioned lighting parts preferably making it possible to illuminate the profiled edge region in question in two or more directions, preferably transversely or perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the profiled edge region in question. Preferably, the directions coincide or substantially coincide with the first and second recording angles, with a deviation between a relevant direction and a relevant recording angle preferably being 15° or less or even 5° or less.

The device preferably comprises means for storing at least some of the recording data, reading at least some of the recording data, printing out at least some of the recording data, displaying at least some of the recording data and/or outputting or sending at least some of the data a computer or a computer network. For this purpose, the device is preferably equipped with an integrated and possibly removable data carrier and/or a data interface.

In the context of the present invention, the term “capture angle” refers to the average angle at which the sensor in question captures an image. For sensors in which the recording medium penetrates the edge region at points, the recording angle is the angle at which the recording medium penetrates into the edge region, viewed as an area perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the respective edge region. For sensors in which the recording medium falls into the edge region at least line by line, the recording angle is the average angle at which the recording medium falls into the edge region, viewed in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the respective edge region.

It should also be noted that the invention for testing panels or for quality control on panels and the above-mentioned device can also be applied to panels with opposite profiled edge areas which have a shape other than that of tongue and groove. The expert understands that similar advantages can be achieved if only one of the opposite profiled Edges comprise a coupling part in the form of a tongue or a groove or if both of the opposite edge regions comprise the same type of coupling part, such as both a tongue or both a groove. Furthermore, it is clear that coupling parts that do not have a pronounced tongue and groove shape can also be tested with the device of the present invention. Rather than being primarily designed as a tongue and groove, such couplings can be essentially designed as male couplings and female couplings, where the male couplings can be inserted into the female couplings by a downward movement. In the connected state, a lock is preferably created between the respective edges perpendicular to the plane of the connected panels and in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the connected panels and perpendicular to the connected edges. Such male and female coupling parts preferably also have horizontally active locking surfaces and vertically active contact surfaces in the connected state. Undercut or undercut parts can also be used to achieve interlocking. A testing and/or quality control method and a device that are described in the context of the described aspects of the invention are therefore also useful here.

It is also clear that the profiled edge regions of the panels to be tested, within the scope of the present invention, preferably extend continuously and without exception over the essentially complete longitudinal direction of the profiled edge region in question, for example with the possible exception of its ends. However, it is not excluded that the techniques described herein may be used to monitor or inspect local cuts or profiled edge areas with profiles that vary in the longitudinal direction of the profiled edge area, such as for testing the long pair of profiled edge areas of the in the WO 2020/109961 panels described.

• 1 zeigt eine Vorrichtung zur Prüfung von Paneelen gemäß der Erfindung in einer Draufsicht;
• 2 und 3 zeigen Querschnitte in größerem Maßstab gemäß den Linien II-II und III-III, wie in 1 jeweils dargestellt;
• 4 und 5 zeigen eine Variante in ähnlichen Ansichten wie die 2 und 3;
• 6 zeigt den verbundenen Zustand von zwei der Paneele aus den vorhergehenden Figuren;
• 7 zeigt eine Aufnahme, die mit der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung erhalten wurde; und
• 8 zeigt eine Variante in einer Ansicht ähnlich der von 2.

In order to better demonstrate the characteristics of the invention, a number of preferred embodiments will be described below, without any limitation, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

• 1 shows a device for testing panels according to the invention in a top view;
• 2 and 3 show cross sections on a larger scale along lines II-II and III-III, as in 1 each shown;
• 4 and 5 show a variant in similar views to that 2 and 3 ;
• 6 shows the joined state of two of the panels from the preceding figures;
• 7 shows a photograph obtained with the device according to the invention; and
• 8th shows a variant in a view similar to that of 2 .

1 shows a top view that a panel 1 is provided by an operator 2 of a device 3 for testing panels 2. In the example, an elongated and rectangular panel 1 is shown, which has profiled edge regions with coupling parts 8 on both pairs of opposite edges 4-5-6-7, with which two such panels 1 can be connected to one another. On the long pair of opposite edges 4-5, the coupling parts 8 are essentially designed as a tongue 9 and a groove 10.

The 2 and 3 clearly show that the groove 10 is delimited at least by an upper groove 11 and a lower groove 12, with the lower groove 11 extending distally beyond the upper groove 12.

The 4 and 5 show the edge 4 with the spring 9.

6 shows that the above-mentioned tongue 9 and the above-mentioned groove 10 are provided with locking parts which prevent the tongue 9 from moving apart and the groove 10 from moving apart. The locking parts include a projection 13 on the upper surface of the lower groove 12 and a recess 14 on the underside of the above-mentioned spring 9, in which case, in the connected state shown here, horizontally active locking surfaces 15-16, on the one hand proximal surface of the above-mentioned projection 13 and on the other hand on a distal surface of the above-mentioned recess 14 are formed.

4 further shows that in the connected state, vertically active contact surfaces 17-18 are formed on the top of the spring 9 and the underside of the above-mentioned groove lip 11. In the example, these vertically active contact surfaces 17-18 are parallel to the plane 19 of the panels 1.

In the connected state, a locking device is created in a vertical direction V perpendicular to the plane 19 of the connected panels 1 and in a horizontal direction H in plane 19 of the connected panels 1 and perpendicular to the connected edges 4-5.

The 1 until 3 show that by means of the above-mentioned device 3 at least a first Part 20 and a second part 21 of the contour of the cross section of the first profiled edge region, namely the edge region 5 with the groove 10, are recorded by two separate sensors 22-23, a first sensor 22 and a second sensor 23. In this case these are optical sensors, more specifically 2D triangulation positioning sensors. The first part 20 is captured by a first shooting angle A1, and the second part 21 is captured by a second shooting angle A2, which is different from the above-mentioned first shooting angle. Both recordings are recorded from recording directions transverse and in this case perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the respective edge.

In the example, the first recording angle A1 is located in the plane 19 of the panel 1. The second recording direction forms a recording angle A2 with the plane 19 of the panel 1 of less than 45°, in this case approximately 55°. The first receiving angle A1 corresponds to the mean angle B1 at which the aforementioned vertical active contact surface 18 extends on the lower side of the upper groove 11. The second recording angle A2 corresponds to the mean angle B2 at which the above horizontal active locking surface 16 extends, i.e. in the decoupled state.

The 4 and 5 show an alternative device 3, wherein a first part 20 and a second part 21 of the contour can be recorded with the same first sensor 22. For this purpose, the first sensor 22 is created or mounted so that it can rotate. The above-mentioned first recording angle A1 and the second recording angle A2 can then be recorded by rotating the first sensor.

The 4 and 5 further show that a similar testing method can be used to include a first part 20 and a second part 21 of the profiled edge region on the edge 4 with the tongue 9. Of course, this can also be done with the one in the 1 until 3 shown device 3. For this purpose, the device 3 can be equipped with an additional sensor 22A for recording the above second part 21 when testing an edge region 4 with a spring 9. Due to the rotatable arrangement at an angle D of more than 60 °, and in this case even an angle D of more than 90 °, the in the 4 and 5 Device 3 shown checks both an edge area on an edge 4 with a tongue 9 and an edge 5 with a groove 10 with only one sensor 22.

The above-mentioned third sensor 22A can also be used to record a third part of the contour of the edge with the tongue 9 or the groove 10, the recording of the third part preferably taking place from a third recording angle, which is different from the first recording angle A1 and the second recording angle A2, but preferably also from a recording direction transverse to the longitudinal direction L of the relevant edge 4-5. A third part can also be recorded with only one sensor 22, for example a rotatable sensor 22, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5.

The devices 3 of 1 until 5 are equipped with means 24-25 for aligning or positioning the panels 1 with respect to the above sensors 22-23-22A. In the example, the above-mentioned means 24-25 consist of two pins, each of which forms a stop surface for an edge 4 with a tongue 9 or for an edge 5 with a groove 10. In the present case, the position of the stop surface can be adjusted using screws 26.

The devices 3 of 1 until 5 are also provided with means 27 for clamping or clamping the relevant panels 1. In the example, the clamping means 27 comprise a clamping part 28, which can be pressed onto the surface 19 of the panels 1 by means of a lever 29.

In the examples, the device 3 is equipped with a housing 30 suitable for placement on a surface such as a table.

The device is also equipped with indicator means 31 in the form of a beacon allowing the emission of a light signal in accordance with the quality of the recording. The result of the test, for example the recording data, can be read out using a computer 32.

Of course, one or both of the short pair of opposite edges 6-7 can also be subjected to a similar test with the same or similar device 3.

7 shows recording data 33 that comes from the layout of the 1 and 2 were received. 5 shows the recording of the first part 20 and the second part 21 of the contour. The recording of the first part 20 partially overlaps the recording of the second part 21. In the example, the undercut or undercut part 34 of the groove 10, which adjoins the proximal surface of the projection 13, was at least for a part only by one of the two exposures recognized. An overlap is also provided at the transition 35 between the first part 20 and the second part 21. In this case, the above-mentioned first part 20 includes the horizontal active locking surface 16 of the groove 10. In this case, the above-mentioned second part 21 includes the vertically active contact surface 18 at the bottom the upper groove lip 11. The transition 35, or in this case the overlap, between the first part 20 and the second part 21, takes place at the level of the vertically active contact surfaces 17A-18A between the underside of the tongue 9 and the top of the lower groove lip 12 instead.

7 also shows that the captured recording data 33 can be compared with the desired geometry. In this case, the lines 36 indicate a tolerance zone representing the pass and fail limits for quality control according to the second aspect.

8th shows an alternative device 3 for testing panels 1 for a method according to the first aspect. This is a device 3 with a handle 37. The device is also equipped with means 27 for clamping the panels and for providing information 31 about the quality and/or the result of the exposure. The means 27 are, in the example, active on the lower side of the panel 1. The indication means 31 are designed here as a screen that faces away from the panel 1 to be tested. In the example, the above-mentioned screen is on the device 3 so that it is ergonomic for the operator 2 to read.

8th further shows that the device 3 is equipped with means 38 to start the step of recording the relevant part 20-21 of the contour. Specifically, this is a push button that can be pressed by the operator 2.

The embodiment of 8th allows ergonomic handling of the device 3 and is easily portable or transportable from one quality control location to another.

It should be noted that 4 further illustrates that the device 3 can include one or more lighting parts 39, the above-mentioned lighting parts 39 making it possible to illuminate the respective profiled edge region in two or more directions, preferably transversely to the longitudinal L of the respective profiled edge region. In the present case, the lighting parts 39 are integrated into the sensor 22 and are therefore also designed to be rotatable. In the example, the lighting parts 39 are designed in a ring shape around the actual sensor 22.

• - der oben genannte erste Aufnahmewinkel sich in der Ebene 19 der Paneele 1 befindet oder bei dieser Ebene 19 einen Winkel A1 von 15° oder weniger einschließt;
• - der oben genannte zweite Aufnahmewinkel sich senkrecht zur Ebene der Paneele erstreckt oder mit der Vertikalen einen Aufnahmewinkel E2 von weniger als 45°, vorzugsweise von weniger als 35° einschließt; und/oder
• - der oben genannte dritte Eintrittswinkel befindet sich senkrecht zur Ebene 19 der Paneele 1, schließt mit der Vertikalen einen Aufnahmewinkel E2 von weniger als 45°, und vorzugsweise weniger als 35° ein, aber so, dass die dritte Aufnahmerichtung eine vertikale Komponente gegenüber der oben genannten zweiten Aufnahmerichtung aufweist.

The devices 3 in the figures are suitable for carrying out the methods described above and are set up and designed for this purpose, whereby

• - the above-mentioned first recording angle is in the plane 19 of the panels 1 or encloses an angle A1 of 15 ° or less in this plane 19;
• - the above-mentioned second recording angle extends perpendicular to the plane of the panels or, with the vertical, includes a recording angle E2 of less than 45°, preferably less than 35°; and or
• - the above-mentioned third entry angle is perpendicular to the plane 19 of the panels 1, includes with the vertical a recording angle E2 of less than 45 °, and preferably less than 35 °, but such that the third recording direction has a vertical component compared to the one above mentioned second recording direction.

The present invention is by no means limited to the embodiments described as examples and shown in the figures, but the devices 3 can be implemented in different ways without going beyond the scope of the invention.

QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of documents listed by the applicant was 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

• WO 9747834 [0002]
• WO 2021/111210 [0032]
• WO 0175247 [0032]
• EP 2440724 [0032]
• WO 2009/066153 [0032]
• WO 2020/109961 [0049]

Claims (23)

Device (3) for testing panels which are equipped on at least a first pair of opposite edges (4-5) with profiled edge regions which are provided with coupling parts (8) which enable a mutual connection of two of these panels (1), whereby the coupling parts (8) are essentially designed as a tongue (9) and a groove (10), the groove (10) being delimited at least by an upper groove lip (11) and a lower groove lip (12), and wherein the tongue (9 ) and the groove (10) are provided with locking parts which prevent the tongue (9) and the groove (10) from moving apart, wherein, in a coupled state, a locking between the relevant edges (4-5) in a direction ( V) perpendicular to the plane (19) of the connected panels (1) and in a direction (H) in the plane (19) of the connected panels (1) and perpendicular to the connected edges (4-5), the device is designed and designed to accommodate at least a first part (20) and a second part (21) of the cross-sectional contour of a first of the above-mentioned profiled edge regions with at least one sensor (22, 22A, 23), the device (3) also being is set up and designed so that the recording of the first part (20) takes place from a first recording angle (A1), and that of the second part (21) takes place from a second recording angle (A2), which differs from the first recording angle (A1). , but each from a receiving direction transverse to the longitudinal direction (L) of the corresponding edge (5). Device according to Claim 1 , characterized in that the device (3) has means (27) for clamping the relevant panel (1) and / or means (24-25) for aligning or positioning the relevant panel (1) relative to the at least one sensor (22, 22A, 23). Device according to Claim 1 or 2 , characterized in that the device (3) automatically carries out the recording of the relevant part of the cross-sectional contour, and / or that the device contains means (38) for starting the recording of the corresponding part of the cross-sectional contour, which is activated by an operator (2). can be. Device according to one of the Claims 1 until 3 , characterized in that the device (3) has a handle and/or is equipped with a housing (30) suitable for placing or mounting on a surface such as a wall or a table. Device according to one of the Claims 1 until 4 , characterized in that the device comprises indication means (31) which make it possible to provide information relating to the quality and/or the result of the recording. Device according to one of the Claims 1 until 5 , characterized in that the device comprises at least one lighting part (39), which preferably makes it possible to illuminate the profiled edge region in question in two or more directions, preferably transverse to the longitudinal direction (L) of the profiled edge region in question. Device according to one of the Claims 1 until 6 , characterized in that it is designed to accommodate the first part (20) and the second part (21) with one and the same sensor (22). Device according to one of the Claims 1 until 7 , characterized in that the sensor (22) is rotatably positioned, and that the first recording angle (A1) and the second recording angle (A2) can be adjusted by rotating the sensor (22). Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least two separate sensors (22, 23) are provided which receive the first part (20) and the second part (21). Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the recording direction is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (L) of the edge (5) in question. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first above-mentioned recording angle (A1) lies in the plane (19) of the panels (1) or thus forms an angle (A1) of 15° or less. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second above-mentioned recording angle (A2) is perpendicular to the plane (19) of the panels (1) or therefore an angle (A2) of less than 45°, preferably less than 35°, forms. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device is designed to record a third part of the cross-sectional contour, the third part being recorded from a third recording angle which differs from the first and second recording angles, but also from a or across multiple recording directions to the longitudinal direction (L) of the corresponding edge (5). Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the above-mentioned lower groove lip (12) extends distally behind the above-mentioned upper groove lip (11), and in that the above-mentioned locking parts have a projection (13) on the upper surface of the the above-mentioned lower lip (12) and a recess (14) on the underside of the above-mentioned spring (9), wherein, in the above-mentioned coupled state, horizontally active locking surfaces (15-16) are formed, on the one hand on a proximal surface of the above-mentioned projection (13) and on the other hand on a distal surface of the above-mentioned recess (14). Device according to Claim 14 , characterized in that the second above-mentioned receiving angle (A2) corresponds or almost corresponds to the mean angle over which the said locking surface (16) extends on the first profiled edge region to be tested. Device according to one of the Claims 14 or 15 , characterized in that, in the above-mentioned coupled state, vertically active contact surfaces (17-18) are formed on the above-mentioned upper side of the above-mentioned spring (9) and the underside of the upper groove lip (11), the above-mentioned vertically active Contact surfaces (17-18) run parallel to the plane (19) of the panels (1) or thus form an average angle of 45° or less, preferably 15° or less. Device according to Claim 16 , characterized in that the first recording angle (A1) corresponds or almost corresponds to the mean angle over which the above-mentioned vertically active contact surfaces (17-18) extend. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a first of the above-mentioned profiled edge regions comprises the above-mentioned groove (10). Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is designed to accommodate at least part of the cross-sectional contour of a second of the above-mentioned profiled edge regions. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the panel (1) is equipped on at least a second pair of opposite edges (6-7) with profiled edge regions which are provided with coupling parts (8) which ensure a mutual connection of two of these panels (1), wherein the device is further designed to also accommodate part of one or both profiled edge regions of the second pair of opposite edges. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is designed to accommodate at least the first part (20) and the second part (21) of the cross-sectional contour of a profiled edge region and to enable a direct or indirect comparison of at least one of the parts (20, 21 ) with a desired geometry of the part in question. Device according to Claim 21 , characterized in that it stores deviations obtained in the comparison, these preferably forming the basis of a statistical process control, for example applied to the process of forming the profiled edge areas in question. Device according to Claim 21 or 22 , characterized in that these deviations obtained in the above-mentioned step of comparison are output to a control of the process of forming the relevant profiled edge areas.

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