EA038114B1 - Panels for an assembled product - Google Patents

Abstract

A set of panels for an assembled product is disclosed including a first panel (1a); a second panel (1b); and a third panel (2a). Each of the first panel (1a) and the second panel (1b) comprises a first surface (7a), a second surface (7b), which is substantially parallel with the first surface (7a), an edge groove (4a), and an end surface (4b). The third panel (2a) comprises a first surface (8a) and a second surface (8b), which is substantially parallel with the first surface (8a), and an end surface extending at least partially between the first surface (8a) and the second surface (8b) of the third panel (2a). The end surface of the third panel (2a) comprises a first tongue (9a) and a second tongue (9b). The first panel (1a) and the second panel (1b) are configured to be arranged with their respective end surfaces (4b) facing each other, and with their respective edge grooves (4a) in parallel. The first tongue (9a) of the third panel (2a) is configured to be arranged in the edge groove (4a) of the first panel (1a) to join the first panel (1a) and the third panel (2a), and the second tongue (9b) of the third panel (2a) is configured to be received in the edge groove (4a) of the second panel (2b) to join the second panel (1b) to the third panel (2a), whereby the first panel (1a), the second panel (1b), and the third panel (2a) are joined at least in a first direction.

Description

The technical field to which the invention relates

The present invention relates to panels of assembled products, such as panels for a multi-modular frame. More specifically, embodiments in accordance with the invention relate to a set of panels for an assembled article such as a furniture component, a frame consisting of one or multiple modules, for wardrobes, cabinets or shelves, drawers, dividing walls, and the like.

Background to the invention

A known furniture product is provided with a mechanical interlocking system, as shown, for example, in WO 2012/154113. The piece of furniture comprises a first panel connected perpendicularly to the second panel by means of a mechanical locking system containing a flexible tongue in a receiving groove.

The product to be assembled may include at least three elements located in three different planes, as shown, for example, in patent document WO 2015/038059. The first element is connected perpendicularly to the second element and the third element is connected perpendicularly to the second element.

The composite element contains at least two panel-like elements, as shown, for example, in patent document WO 2010070605. The panel-like elements are connected at an angle by means of a connecting means. The composite element can form multiple modules, such as shown, for example, in FIG. 40 in WO 2010070605. This figure shows that a plurality of grooves are present in the same edge region of the panel-shaped element, which provide a T-shaped connection or cross-connection of several panel-shaped elements. The ends of each of the two horizontal panel-like elements are connected to opposite side surfaces of the third vertical panel. This connection is rather unstable. It is also labor intensive to assemble; each horizontal panel is attached separately to each vertical panel. In some embodiments, for example, as shown in FIG. 62, a connector is required to assemble multiple modules. The separate connector also makes the composite element unstable and laborious to assemble. It is necessary to manufacture additional components that complicate manufacturing, logistics and increase the cost of the component.

The present invention responds to the recognized need for an assembled panel set that is easy to assemble and provides a stable assembled product, reduced complexity and / or cost savings.

The essence of the invention

Accordingly, embodiments in accordance with the present invention preferably seek to reduce, mitigate, or eliminate one or more deficiencies, deficiencies, or issues in the art as defined above, alone or in combination, by providing a panel set in accordance with the appended claims.

In some embodiments, a set of panels for an item to be assembled is provided. The assembled panel set contains a first panel, a second panel, and a third panel. Each of the first panel and the second panel includes a first surface, a second surface that is substantially parallel to the first surface, an edge groove, and an end surface. The third panel comprises a first surface and a second surface that is substantially parallel to the first surface and an end surface extending at least partially between the first surface and a second surface of the third panel. The end surface of the third panel comprises a first tongue and a second tongue. The first panel and the second panel are arranged such that their respective end surfaces face each other and their respective edge grooves are parallel. The first tongue of the third panel is arranged to be positioned in the edge groove of the first panel for connecting the first panel and the third panel, and the second tongue of the third panel is adapted to receive it by the edge groove of the second panel for connecting the second panel to the third panel. The first panel, the second panel and the third panel are joined in at least the first direction.

The first panel and the second panel are arranged so that their respective end surfaces are adjacent to each other.

Each first panel and each second panel additionally contains a receiving groove for a flexible tongue. The receiving groove may be located between the end surface and the first surface of the corresponding first panel and the second panel. The third panel has a first tongue groove extending from its first surface. The second tongue groove may extend from the second surface of the third panel. Each tongue groove may be configured to receive a portion of the flexible tongue when joining the first panel, the second panel, and the third panel.

At least one of the first and second panels may comprise a flexible tab formed integrally with said at least one of the first and second panels and of the same material as the material of said at least one of the first and second panels ...

- 1 038114

Each receiving groove can be inclined towards a corresponding first surface of the first panel and the second panel. The respective first tab and second tab of the third panel may be configured to push each flexible tab into the receiving groove when the third panel is connected to the first panel and to the second panel.

Each of the first and second panels may include a tongue defined by its end surface and a flange groove. The third panel may comprise at least one end groove between its first tongue and second tongue. The end groove may be at least partially formed by the side surface of the first tongue of the third panel and the side surface of the second tongue of the third panel and a surface extending between said side surfaces. The third panel may include one end groove between the first tab and the second tab of the third panel. The tongue of the first panel and the tongue of the second panel are tongue portions related to a multi-part tongue. The multi-part tongue can be formed when the first panel and the second panel are positioned such that their respective end surfaces are adjacent to each other and their respective edge grooves are parallel. The multi-piece tongue can be configured to be positioned in one end groove of the third panel.

The tongue end surface of the first panel and the tongue end surface of the second panel may be configured to abut the end groove of the third panel. The end surface of the first tongue of the third panel may be arranged to be spaced from the bottom wall of the edge groove of the first panel. The end surface of the second tongue of the third panel may be configured to be positioned at a distance from the bottom wall of the edge groove of the second panel when joining the panels.

Alternatively, the tongue end surface of the first panel and the tongue end surface of the second panel may be configured to be spaced from the end groove of the third panel. The end surface of the first tongue of the third panel may be configured to abut the bottom wall of the edge groove of the first panel. The end surface of the second tongue of the third panel can be configured to abut the bottom wall of the edge groove of the second panel when joining the panels.

Each of the first panel and the second panel includes at least one of the front and rear edges that extend between the first surface and the second surface of the corresponding first panel and the second panel. One adjacent end of the flange groove of the respective first panel and the second panel may be located at a distance from at least one of the leading and trailing edges.

In some embodiments, a set of panels is provided to form a multi-modular frame. The set of panels comprises a plurality of panels of the first type arranged in a first direction, a plurality of panels of a second type configured in a second direction that is substantially perpendicular to the first direction. The panel set may also contain at least one corner piece. Panels of the first type contain blocking elements extending along the edge portions of the opposite ends of each panel. Panels of the second type contain a first blocking element and a second blocking element located at the same end face of the second type of panel. The first blocking element and the second blocking element of the panels of the second type are made with the possibility of direct attachment to any of the blocking elements of the panels of the first type. The corner element, if provided, is adapted to attach to at least one of the first and second locking elements at one end of a second type panel when said second type panel is attached directly to one of the first type panel.

The corner element may comprise at least one of supporting elements capable of supporting at least one of the panels of the first type and panels of the second type, and a locking element capable of being locked with a groove for the tongue of the panel of the second type.

The set of panels may contain panels for forming at least two modules of a multimodular frame, including at least four panels of the first type, at least three panels of the second type. Optionally, at least one corner piece is provided. Each end of the first panel of the second type is configured to be bonded to two panels of the first type, and each end of the second panel and the third panel of the second type is configured to be bonded to one panel of the first type. The corner piece, if provided, is adapted to attach to at least one of the ends of the second panel and the third panel of the second type.

In a set of panels, the first panel may be of the first type; the second panel may be of the first type; and the third panel may be of the second type. Each of the first and second panels may include a first surface, a second surface that is substantially parallel to the first surface, a flange groove, and an end surface. The third panel may comprise a first surface and a second surface that is substantially parallel to the first surface and an end surface extending at least partially between the first surface and a second surface of the third panel. The end surface of the third panel comprises a first tongue and a second tongue. The first panel and the second panel can be arranged such that their respective end surfaces face each other and their respective edge grooves (4a) are parallel. The first tongue of the third panel may be configured to be positioned in the edge groove of the first panel for joining the first panel and the third panel. The second tongue of the third panel is adapted to receive a second panel with a groove for connecting the second panel to the third panel. The first panel, the second panel and the third panel are joined in at least the first direction.

In a set of panels, the first panel and the second panel are arranged so that their respective end surfaces are adjacent to each other.

In a set of panels, in which each of the first and second panels further comprises a flexible tab receiving groove, the receiving groove may be located between the end surface and the first surface of the respective first panel and the second panel. The third panel may include a first tongue groove extending from its first surface and a second tongue groove extending from its second surface. Each tongue groove is configured to receive a portion of the flexible tongue when joining the first panel, the second panel, and the third panel.

In a set of panels, at least one of the first and second panels may comprise a flexible tab formed integrally with at least one of the first and second panels and of the same material as the material of said at least one of the first and second panels.

In a set of panels, each receiving groove can be angled towards a corresponding first surface of the first panel and the second panel. The corresponding first tab and the second tab of the third panel may be positioned to push each flexible tab into the receiving groove when the third panel is connected to the first panel and to the second panel.

In a set of panels, each of the first and second panels may include a tongue defined by its end surface and a flange groove. The third panel may comprise at least one end groove between its first tongue and second tongue.

In a set of panels, the end groove may be at least partially formed by a side surface of a first tongue of a third panel and a side surface of a second tongue of a third panel and a surface extending between said side surfaces. The third panel may include one end groove between the first tab and the second tab of the third panel. The tongue of the first panel and the tongue of the second panel may be tongue portions belonging to a multi-part tongue. The multi-part tongue can be formed when the first panel and the second panel are positioned such that their respective end surfaces abut each other and their respective edge grooves are parallel. The multi-part tongue can be arranged to be positioned in said one end groove of the third panel.

In the panel set, the tongue end surface of the first panel and the tongue end surface of the second panel may be configured to abut the end groove of the third panel. The end surface of the first tongue of the third panel may be configured to be spaced from the bottom wall of the edge groove of the first panel. The end surface of the second tongue of the third panel may be configured to be spaced from the bottom wall of the edge groove of the second panel when the panels are connected. Alternatively, the tongue end surface of the first panel and the tongue end surface of the second panel may be configured to be spaced from the end groove of the third panel. The end surface of the first tongue of the third panel may be configured to abut the bottom wall of the edge groove of the first panel. The end surface of the second tongue of the third panel may be configured to abut the bottom wall of the edge groove of the second panel when the panels are connected.

In a set of panels, each of the first and second panels may comprise at least one of front and rear edges that extend between the first surface and the second surface of the respective first panel and the second panel. One adjacent end of the edge groove of the respective first panel and the second panel may be spaced from said at least one of the front and rear edges.

Some embodiments in accordance with the invention provide an assembled article that is easy to assemble. In particular, the product to be assembled can only consist of two types of panels, which can be locked against each other without the aid of any separate fastening elements such as bolts or screws. In the same way, panels can be connected without the use of any tools. Thus, panels can be quickly connected. In addition, the design of the panels ensures a stable assembled product. In addition, the need for only two types of panels and an optional corner piece reduces the complexity of manufacturing and assembly. The reduced complexity, as well as the small number of parts required for manufacturing - 3,038,114 lei, also reduces the cost of manufacturing and logistics.

The term contains / containing is used in this technical description to refer to the presence of the claimed features, systems, steps or components, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more features, systems, steps, components or groups thereof.

Brief Description of Drawings

These and other aspects, features and advantages of each of the possible embodiments in accordance with the invention will become apparent and will be explained in the following description of the embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

fig. 1A is a rear side elevational view of an embodiment of an assembled article;

fig. 1B is an enlarged side view of the rear corner of the assembled article of FIG. 1A;

fig. 1C is an enlarged side view of the rear side of the assembled article of FIG. 1A with a first panel positioned to abut the second panel and a third panel with interlocking elements connecting the panels together;

fig. 1D is an enlarged rear side view of an alternative embodiment of the assembled article of FIG. 1A;

fig. 2A is a front side view of the embodiment of the assembled article of FIG. 1A;

fig. 2B is an enlarged side view of the front side of the panels shown in FIG. 1C;

fig. 2C is an enlarged side view of the front side of the corner shown in FIG. 1B;

fig. 2D is a side elevational view of the assembled product shown in FIG. 1A;

fig. 3A is an exploded view of embodiments of a first type panel, a second type panel, and a corner piece;

fig. 3B is an enlarged view of the exploded view shown in FIG. 3A;

fig. 4A is a side view of an embodiment of a second type of panel;

fig. 4B is a side view of an embodiment of a panel of the first type;

fig. 5 is an exploded view of an embodiment of a panel set for an assembled item including panels of the first type and panels of the second type;

fig. 6A is a front side view of an embodiment of an assembled article;

fig. 6B is a side elevational view of the assembled product shown in FIG. 6A;

fig. 6C is an enlarged side view of the rear of the assembled article shown in FIG. 6A with a first panel positioned to abut the second panel and a third panel with interlocking elements connecting the panels to each other;

fig. 6D is an enlarged side view of the front side of the corner of the assembled article shown in FIG. 6A;

fig. 7A is a rear side elevational view of the assembled product embodiment shown in FIG. 6A;

fig. 7B is an enlarged side view of the rear of the corner shown in FIG. 6D;

fig. 7C is an enlarged side view of the rear side of the panels shown in FIG. 6C;

fig. 8A is an exploded view showing the connection of panels of the first type to panels of the second type;

fig. 8B is an enlarged view of panels of the first type secured to panels of the second type with interlocking elements;

fig. 9A-J are top and side views of embodiments of locking elements;

fig. 10A, B are exploded views of panels of the first type, panels of the second type and panels of the third type;

fig. 11A, B are side views of the front side and rear side, respectively, of an embodiment of a corner piece connected to panels;

fig. 11C, D are perspective views showing opposite ends of the corner member shown in FIG. 1A-11C;

fig. 12A is an enlarged side view of an end surface of the second type;

fig. 12B is an enlarged rear side view of an alternative embodiment of the assembled article shown in FIG. 1A;

fig. 12C is an enlarged rear side view of an alternative embodiment of the assembled article shown in FIG. 1A.

Description of embodiments

Specific embodiments in accordance with the invention are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The present invention, however, can be embodied in many other forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments described therein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure is thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. The terminology used in the detailed description of the embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the invention. In the drawings, like reference numbers refer to like elements.

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The invention relates to a set of panels for an assembled product such as shown in FIG. 1A.

The set of panels comprises a first panel 1a, a second panel 1b, and a third panel 2a. The first panel 1a, the second panel 1b and the third panel 3a can be connected as shown in FIG. 1C. In particular, the first panel 1a, the second panel 1b and the third panel 3a can be bonded to each other in at least one direction. As a result, three panels can form a connection of the assembled product.

In some embodiments, a set of panels can be used to form a multi-modular frame, as shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 1A, 2A, 5, 6A and 7A. FIG. 1A and 7A show the rear side of embodiments of multi-module frames. FIG. 2A shows the front side of the multi-module chassis of FIG. 1A, and in FIG. 6A shows the front side of the multi-module chassis of FIG. 7A.

The entire multi-module frame can be assembled using only a plurality of panels of the first type and a plurality of panels of the second type. FIG. 4B shows an embodiment of a panel 1 of the first type. FIG. 4A shows an embodiment of a second type of panel 2.

The first panel 1a and the second panel 1b may be panels of the first type. The third panel 2a may be of the second type. To form a separate connection, only the first panel 1a, the second panel 1b and the third panel 2a are required.

As shown in FIG. 1A, 2A, 5, 6A and 7A, panels of the first type, such as panels 1a-e, are arranged to be arranged in a first direction such as a horizontal direction. Panels of the second type, such as panels 2a-d, are configured to be positioned in a second direction, such as a vertical direction. The second direction may be substantially perpendicular to the first direction.

In one embodiment, such as that shown in the embodiment in FIG. 1A, the panel set may include at least one corner 3a-c.

The corner piece 3a-c can be attached to at least one panel 1 of the first type or to a panel 2 of the second type. As shown in FIG. 1B, a corner piece 3a-c can be attached to a second type of panel 2. The first type panel 1 can be attached at the same corner of the second type panel 2 to which the corner piece 3a-c is attached as shown in FIG. 1B. The corner piece 3a-c can extend over the entire length of the edge of the second type of panel 2, such as the top / bottom edge of a rectangular panel. Thus, the corner piece 3a-c can be used to camouflage or cover any structure of the first and / or second type of panel 1, 2, so as to attract less attention. Thus, the corner piece 3a-c can be used at any angle that is visible when the product assembled from the panels 1a-e, 2a, b is placed in its final position for use. Thus, in some situations, only two corner pieces 3a-c may be required when the product to be assembled is positioned such that a side surface, such as a surface perpendicular to the front or rear, is against a wall. However, in other situations, four corners 3a-c are used, one corner at each outer corner of the product being assembled. It is also possible to use only one or three corner pieces 3a-c.

As shown, for example, in FIG. 1C, the tongue end surface of the first panel 1a and the tongue end surface of the second panel 1b are adapted to abut the end groove of the third panel 2a, and the end surface of the first tongue 9a of the third panel 2a is configured to be spaced from the bottom wall of the lip groove 4a of the first panel, and the end surface of the second tongue 9b of the third panel 2a is configured to be spaced from the bottom wall of the edge groove 4a of the second panel 1b when the panels are connected.

Alternatively, as shown, for example, in FIG. 1D, the tongue end surface of the first panel 1a and the tongue end surface of the second panel 1b are arranged to be spaced from the end groove of the third panel 2a, and the end surface of the first tongue 9a of the third panel 2a is configured to abut the bottom wall of the edge groove 4a of the first panel 1a and the end surface of the second tongue 9b of the third panel 2a is configured to abut the bottom wall of the edge groove 4a of the second panel 1b when the panels are connected.

As shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 1C and 7C, and as can be seen in FIG. 3B, 4A, 8A, 10A, 10B and 11C, panel 1 of the first type comprises a blocking member 4 extending at least partially along the edge portion 5. In some embodiments, the blocking member 4 extends along each edge portion 5a, 5b of opposite ends panel 1 as shown by panel 1 in FIG. 4b. The panel 1 of the first type may have a locking element 4 at each of the opposite ends of the panel 1, as shown in FIG. 4B. Thus, the blocking elements 4 can be symmetrically located at each end of the panel 1 of the first type. Thus, the panel 1 can be symmetrical at each end, for example, with respect to the center line S1 normal to the first surface 7a and to the second surface 7b of the panel 1 of the first type. The center line S1 may be centered between each of the ends of the first type of panel 1. Thus, the panel 1 of the first type can be symmetrical about the center line S1. Thus, the panel 1 of the first type can be connected to the panel 2 of the second type at each end, as shown in FIG. 1A.

Similarly and as can be seen in FIG. 4A, panel 2 of the second type, such as panels 2a-d, contains

- 5,038114 the first blocking element 6a and the second blocking element 6b, located at the same end of the panel 2 of the second type. The panel 2 of the second type may have a first blocking element 6a and a second blocking element 6b at each of the opposite ends of the panel 2, as shown in FIG. 4a. Thus, the blocking elements can be symmetrically located at each end of the second type panel 2, for example, relative to the center line S1, which is normal to the first surface 8a and to the second surface 8b of the second type panel 2. The center line S1 may run centrally between each of the ends of the second type of panel 2. Thus, the panel 2 of the second type can be symmetrical about the center line S1. In addition, the first blocking member 6a and the second blocking member 6b may be symmetrically disposed along the edges of each end. Thus, the locking elements 6a, 6b at each end can be symmetrical about the second center line S2. The second center line S2 may run parallel to the first surface 8a and to the second surface 8b of the second type of panel 2, for example, in the center between the first locking element 6a and the second element 6b and / or in the center between the first surface 8a and the second surface 8b of the panel 2 of the second type. Thus, the entire panel 2 can be symmetrical. Thus, each panel 2 of the second type can connect four panels 1 of the first type, which, for example, together form the lower surface and the upper surface of the multi-module frame, respectively.

Each of the first blocking element 6a and the second blocking element 6b of the panel 2 of the second type is adapted to be directly attached to any of the blocking elements 4 of the panel 1 of the first type.

The corner pieces 3a-3c can be adapted to attach to at least one of the first blocking element 6a and the second blocking element 6b at one end of the second type panel 2. As shown in FIG. 1B, when a panel 2d of the second type is bonded directly to one panel 1 of the first type, such as, for example, the panel of the outermost module of a multi-module frame, one of the locking elements 6a, b of the outermost panel of the outermost module becomes visible, i.e. it is not connected to the panel 1 the first type. The corner piece 3a-c can be attached to any such visible blocking piece 6a, b.

As shown in FIG. 4B, a first type of panel 1, such as each first panel 1a and a second panel 1b, comprises a first surface 7a and a second surface 7b. The second surface 7b may be substantially parallel to the first surface 7a and may be spaced from the first surface 7a so that the panel has a predetermined thickness. In addition, the panel 1 of the first type may comprise at least one edge groove 4a and at least one end surface 4b, for example, at each end face of the panel 1. At least one edge groove 4a and at least one end surface 4b may extend at least partially along the edge of the first type of panel 1.

As shown in FIG. 4A, a second type panel 2, such as a third panel 2a, may comprise a first surface 8a and a second surface 8b. The second surface 8b may be substantially parallel to the first surface 8a and may be spaced from the first surface 8a so that the panel 2 has a predetermined thickness. The end surface 9 may extend, at least partially, between the first surface 8a and the second surface 8b of the panel 2 of the second type. Each end of the second type of panel 2 may comprise such an end surface 9. The end surface 9 of the second type of panel 2, such as the third panel 2a, may include a first tongue 9a. The panel 2 of the second type may also comprise a second tongue 9b. The first tongue 9a and / or the second tongue 9 may extend at least partially along the end surface 9.

As shown in FIG. 1C and 7C, panels of the first type, such as the first panel 1a and the second panel 1b, may be arranged so that their respective end surfaces 4b face each other and their respective edge grooves 4a are parallel. A first tongue 9a of a first type panel 2, such as a third panel 2a, may be configured to be positioned in the edge groove 4a of the first panel 2a for joining the first panel 1a and the third panel 2a. The second tongue 9b of the second panel 2, such as the third panel 2a, can be configured to be inserted into the edge groove 4a of the second panel 1b. Thus, the third panel 2a can connect the second panel 2b to the third panel 2b, whereby the first panel 1a, the second panel 2b and the third panel 2a are connected in at least the first direction, for example, in the direction of the passage of the first surface 7a and the second surface 7b of the first panel 1a and the second panel 1b, respectively.

As shown in FIG. 1C and 7C, in some embodiments, panels 1 of the first type, such as the first panel 1a and the second panel 1b, are arranged so that their respective end surfaces 4b are adjacent to each other after assembly. This provides a stable connection, whereby the end surfaces can move together when the tabs 9a, b are inserted into the respective edge grooves 4a of the first panel 1a and the second panel 1b.

In some embodiments, the side surface 9c, d of each tab 9a, b facing the center of the second type panel 2 may be configured to abut the first side wall 4c of the edge groove 4a of the first type panel 1. Thus, the side surfaces 9a, b and

6 038114 the first side wall 4c of the edge groove 4a can run parallel with the first surface 8a and the second surface 8b of the second type panel 2. Thus, the side surfaces

9c, d and the first side wall 4c of the edge groove 4a may extend perpendicularly to the passage of the first surface 7a and the second surface 7b of the panel 1 of the first type.

In other embodiments, the panels 1 of the first type, such as the first panel 1a and the second panel 1b, are configured to position their respective end surfaces 4b at a distance from each other when connected to the panel 2 of the second type. A gap may be provided between the end surfaces 4b. The gap may not be filled. This saves material during manufacture. Conversely, the second side surfaces 9e, f of each tab 9a, b facing away from the center of the second type panel 2 may be configured to abut the second side wall 4d of the edge groove 4a of the first type panel 1. Thus, the second side surfaces 9e, f and the second side wall 4d of the edge groove 4a can run parallel to the passage of the first surface 8a and the second surface 8b of the second type panel 2. Thus, the side surfaces 9c, d and the second side wall 4d of the edge groove 4a can extend perpendicularly to the passage of the first surface 7a and the second surface 7b of the panel 1 of the first type.

As shown in FIG. 1C and 7C, the edge groove 4a of a panel of the first type may comprise a first wall 4c and a second wall 4d adapted to abut the first side surfaces 9c, d and the second side surfaces 9e, f, respectively, of each tongue 9a, b of the panel 2 of the second type. This ensures a stable connection. Moreover, this allows easy assembly, since the first panel 1a and the second panel 1b will not be repelled when the tabs 9a, b are inserted into the edge grooves 4a. Additionally, in some embodiments, the end surfaces 4b are also adjacent to each other, which further simplifies assembly and stabilizes the connection. When the end surfaces 4b are already adjacent to each other before the insertion of the tongues 9a, b, the edge grooves 4a can be parallel and at a predetermined distance. This simplifies the insertion of the tabs 9a, b of the second type of panel 2. This further simplifies when the tabs 9a, b are symmetrical at one end of the second type of panel 2 and the edge grooves 4a are symmetrical at opposite ends of the first type of panel 1.

As shown in FIG. 1C and 7C and in FIG. 9A-J, a panel 1 of the first type, such as each of the first panel 1a and the second panel 1b, may include a receiving groove 20 for the flexible tab 30, for example, at each end thereof. Each receiving groove 20 may be located between the end surface 4b and the first surface 7a of the first type panel 1, such as the first panel 1a and the second panel 1b. A second type panel 2, such as a third panel 2a, may comprise a first tongue groove 21a extending from its first surface 8a. In some embodiments, the second type of panel 2 also includes a second tongue groove 21b extending from its second surface 8b. Each tongue groove 21a, b is configured to receive a portion of the flexible tongue 30 when the first panel 1a, the second panel 1b, and the third panel 2a are joined. Thus, the first panel 1a, the second panel 1b and the third panel 2a can be connected and / or locked in a second direction, which can be perpendicular to the first direction in which the panels are connected and / or locked. In addition, the structure of the flexible tongue 30 and tongue grooves 21a, b can form a tight connection. Since the tongue 30 is a flexible tongue, it can be moved into the tongue receiving groove 20 by means of the first tongue 9a or the second tongue 9b of the third panel 2a during the installation of the third panel 2a in its seating position relative to the first panel 1a and the second panel 2b. The flexible tabs 30 of the first panel 1a and the second panel 2b can be symmetrically positioned with respect to the third panel 2a during connection so that they move simultaneously. Thus, a simple and simultaneous connection of the third panel to the first panel and to the second panel is ensured.

FIG. 8B shows an embodiment in which the locking elements with flexible tabs 30 are located in the receiving grooves 20 in the panel 2 of the second type. The tongue grooves 21a, b are located in the panel 1 of the first type. The function of the blocking element in FIG. 8B corresponds to the function of the blocking element described above and below.

Embodiments of a flexible tongue 30 that is movable in a receiving groove 20 are shown in FIGS. 9A-D. FIG. 9A, B show the flexible tongue 30 in the locked position, and FIG. 9C, D show the flexible tab 30 at the time of joining the third panel 2a to the first panel 1a and / or to the second panel 1b. FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional view of the flexible tab 30 of FIG. 9A in top view. FIG. 9D is a cross-sectional view of the flexible tab 30 of FIG. 9C in top view. The flexible tongue 30 comprises foldable protruding portions 24. A space 23 is provided between the flexible tongue 30 and the bottom wall of the insertion groove 20. FIG. 9C shows that the flexible tab 30 is pushed into the receiving groove 20 and towards the bottom wall of the receiving groove 20 while joining the third panel 2a to the first panel 1a and / or to the second panel 1b. The flexible tab 30 springs back to its initial position after the third panel 2a reaches a locked position relative to the first panel 1a and / or the second panel 1b. A recess 25 is preferably located at each foldable extension.

- 7 038114

Flexible tongue 30 may have a moving surface 26 and an opposing second moving surface 27 movable along a third moving surface 28 and a fourth moving surface 29, respectively, of the receiving groove 20.

Another embodiment of a flexible tongue 30 without protruding foldable portions 24 is shown in FIG. 9E, F. FIG. 9F is a cross-sectional view of the flexible tab 30 of FIG. 9E in top view. An alternative embodiment is a lengthwise bendable flexible tongue 30 to perform the same function as in the embodiment shown in FIG. 9A-D.

Another embodiment of flexible tab 30 is shown in FIG. 9G top view. The tongue 30 comprises an inner part 38 and an outer part 39. The inner part 38 and the outer part 39 are preferably made of two different materials, the inner part 38 being more flexible than the outer part 39. The inner part 38 is adapted to be inserted into the receiving groove 20, and the outer part 39 is configured to pass into the tongue groove 21a, b.

FIG. 9G-J show cross-sectional views of embodiments of a tongue 30 comprising an inner portion 91 and a rotatable outer portion 92. The inner portion 91 is adapted to be inserted into the receiving groove 20 and the outer portion 92 is configured to pass into the tongue groove 21a, b and rotate during the connection of the third panel 2a with the first panel 1a and / or with the second panel 1b. The embodiments in FIGS. 9H, I are preferably made of a single material, such as a polymer, by extrusion. The embodiment in FIG. 9J is preferably coextruded and contains at least two different polymeric materials. The embodiment comprises a hinge portion that connects the inner 91 and the outer 92. The material of the hinge 93 is preferably more flexible than the material of the inner 91 and the outer 93.

In some embodiments, at least one panel 1 of a first type, such as a first panel 1a and a second panel 1b, and a panel 2 of a second type, such as a second panel 2a, comprise a flexible tongue formed from the same material and as a whole with at least one panel 1 of the first type and panel 2 of the second type.

In addition, the tongue groove can be formed from the same material and integrally with the panel in which it is formed. Such flexible tabs and tab grooves formed from the same material and integral with the panel may, for example, be constructed as a tab, such as the split tab described in the embodiments in WO 2010070605, which is included in this application by reference.

As shown in FIG. 1B, C, 7B, C and 8B, each receiving groove 20 can be inclined towards a corresponding first surface 7a, b of the panel 1 of the first type. When a receiving groove 20 is provided in a first type of panel 1 such as a first panel 1a and a second panel 1b, a corresponding first tab 9a and a second tab 9b of a second type panel 2, such as a third panel 2a, is configured to push each flexible tab 30 into the receiving groove 20 when the third panel 2a is connected to the first type panel 1. The first tongue 9a and the second tongue 9b can be chamfered between their end surfaces and the second side surfaces 9e, f. This allows the flexible tab to move more easily while allowing the panels to join more easily.

The flexible tongue 30 may be disposed between the first surface 7a and the edge groove 4a of the first type of panel 1, such as the first panel 1a and the second panel 1b.

In some embodiments, a second type of panel 2, such as a third panel 2a, may include at least one end groove formed between the first tongue 9a and the second tongue 9a. The end grooves may be formed by first side surfaces 9a, b and a bottom surface 9g extending therebetween, as shown, for example, in FIG. 1C, 7C, and 8B. Thus, the end grooves are at least partially formed by the side surface of the first tongue 9a and the side surface of the second tongue 9b of the second type panel 2 and a surface extending between the side surfaces.

A second type panel 2, such as a third panel 2a, may comprise one end groove between its first tongue 21a and a second tongue 21b. The tongue of the panel 1 of the first type may be formed by the end surface 4a and the first side wall 4c. Such tabs of the first panel 1a and the second panel 1b can form tab portions associated with a multi-part tab. The multi-part tongue can be formed when the first panel and the second panel are positioned such that their respective end surfaces 4b abut each other and their respective edge grooves 4a are parallel. The multi-part tongue may be configured to be positioned in one end groove of a second type of panel 2, such as a third panel 2a.

FIG. 11A-D show embodiments of a corner element 3, 3b. The corner element 3 may comprise a support element 40 adapted to support at least one panel 1 of the first type and panel 2 of the second type. In some embodiments, as shown, for example, in FIG. 11B, the support member 40 rests on the first type panel 1 and the second type panel 2 after it is fully installed. The first support part 40a can be configured to abut against the end surface 4a of the panel 1 of the first type. The second support portion 40b may be configured to abut the bottom surface 9g of the end groove of the second type of panel 2. The third support portion 40c may be configured to support the first side wall 9d of the first tab 9a or the second side wall 9d of the second tab 9b of the second type of panel 2. The support member may comprise one, two, or all of the first support portions 40a, second support portions 40b, and third support portions 40c. The support element and its corresponding parts can extend at least partially along the length of the corner element 3.

As can be seen in FIG. 11B, the corner piece 3 may comprise a locking piece 41 configured to lock with the first tongue groove 21a or the second tongue groove 21b of the second type of panel 2. The blocking element 41 can extend from the inner side wall of the corner element 3. The blocking element 41 can extend at least partially along the length of the corner element 3. The blocking element can, for example, be folded away from the support element 40.

The corner piece 3 may be connectable by positioning the locking piece 41 in the second type panel tongue groove 21, 21b and then rotating the corner piece 3 towards the second type panel end groove, as shown by the rounded arrow in FIG. 11B until the support member 40 is inserted into the end groove to fully fit, as described above. Alternatively or additionally, the corner piece 3 can be made to be connected by inserting the corner piece 3 diagonally to the panel of the second type, as shown by the straight arrow in FIG. 11B. The corner piece is locked or held in place by the locking piece 41 and the support piece 40. For example, a tongue 9a, b can be inserted between the locking piece 41 and the support piece 40 so that it fits snugly therebetween.

As shown in FIG. 11A and 11C, D, the corner member 3 may comprise an end surface 42 such as an end plate. When the first type panel 1 is attached to the second type panel 2 to form a side surface of the chassis, one of the first tab 9a and the second tab 9b may be visible and not covered by the first type panel as shown in FIG. 11C. When the corner piece 3 is attached to the second type panel 2, the end face 42 can cover any visible part of the locking piece, such as the first tongue 9a or the second tongue 9b. For example, the end surface 42 may have a width / height that substantially corresponds to the thickness of the first type panel 1 and the thickness of the second type panel 2, as shown in FIG. 11A. As shown in FIG. 11D, the corner member 3 has only one end surface 42 or an end plate at one of its ends. However, in other embodiments, the corner piece has an end surface 42 or an end plate at one of its ends. The supporting member 40 and / or blocking member 41 may extend along the entire length of the corner piece 3 from the inner side of the end plate to the other end of the corner piece or to the inner side surface of the end plate at the other end of the corner piece 3.

As shown in FIG. 2A-C, 6A-C, and 8A, a first type panel 1, such as a first panel 1a and a second panel 2a, comprises at least one of a front and a rear edge that extends between its first surface 7a and a second surface 7b. The adjacent end 44 of the flange groove 4a and / or the receiving groove 20 of the panel 1 of the first type may be located at a distance from the leading edge. Thus, the locking element including the shoulder groove 4a and / or the receiving groove 20 is closed by the leading edge. In some embodiments, the flange groove 4a and / or the receiving groove 20 of the first type of panel 1 is additionally or alternatively located at a distance from the trailing edge that extends between its first surface 7a and the second surface 7b.

Likewise, the first tongue 9a and the second tongue 9b of the second type panel 2 may be located at a distance from at least one of the leading edge and the trailing edge that extends between its first surface 8a and the second surface 8b. The adjacent end 44 of the first tab 9a and the second tab 9b of the second type of panel 2 may be located at a distance from the leading edge. Thus, the locking member including the first tongue 9a and the second tongue 9b is closed by the leading edge. In some embodiments, the first tab 9a and the second tab 9b of the second type panel 2 are additionally or alternatively spaced from a trailing edge that extends between its first surface 8a and the second surface 8b. Thus, there is no need for any separate component to cover the blocking element, while fewer parts are needed to provide a visually acceptable frame, which in turn simplifies manufacturing, logistics and assembly.

FIG. 5 shows an embodiment which comprises panels for forming at least two modules of a multi-modular frame. The set of panels includes four panels 1a, b, 1d, e of the first type and three panels 2a-c of the second type. Optionally, the panel set can also include a number of corner pieces, such as two or four. Each end of the first panel 2a of the second type is bonded to two panels la, b, 1d, e of the first type. The first panel 2a can form a central wall or a central partition of a multi-module frame. Each end of the second panel 2b and the third panel 2c of the second type is bonded to one panel 1a, b, 1d, e of the first type. When

9 038114 provide a corner piece, one corner piece can be attached to each end of the second panel 2b and third panel 2c of the second type, for example to the first tab 9a and / or to the second tab 9b of the corresponding second panel 2b and third panel 2c of the second type, as shown in FIG. 3A, B. Thus, the first panel 1a and the second panel 1b of the first type may form the lower section of the multi-module frame, and the third panel 1d and the fourth panel 1e of the first type may form the upper section of the multi-module frame. The second panel 2b and the third panel 2c of the second type may form side sections of the multi-module frame.

The multi-module frame can be expanded to any number of modules. Each add-on module requires only two panels of the first type and one panel of the second type.

FIG. 10A, B shows a frame assembled from panels 1 of the first type and panels 2 of the second type, and which contains a panel or element 50 of the third type. Panel 50 of the third type may form the rear of the frame. Although a multi-module frame is shown, a third type of panel 50 can be used for a single module. The second type panel 2 is preferably connected to the first type panel 1 before the third type panel 50 is connected to other panels. Panel 50 of the third type can be moved diagonally so that the first edge 51 and the second edge 52 of the panel 50 of the third type are connected simultaneously with the edge 53 of the panel 1 of the first type and with the edge 54 of the panel 2 of the second type. It is possible to alternatively move the third type panel 50 in a first direction perpendicular to the first type panel 1 and then move the third type panel 50 in a second direction perpendicular to the second type panel 2. The first edge 51 of the third type panel 50 in this embodiment is movably connected at the first edge 51. In another alternative, the third type panel 50 is moved in a second direction perpendicular to the second type panel 2, and then the third type panel 50 is moved in the first direction, perpendicular to panel 1 of the first type. The second edge 52 of the third type panel 50 in this embodiment is movably connected at the second edge 52. Further connected first type panel 1, second type panel 2 and another first type panel 1 can be moved together diagonally in a direction opposite to direction 55 so that so that the second edge 52 of the panel 1 of the first type and the second edge of the panel 2 of the second type are connected simultaneously with the first edge 51 and with the second edge 52 of the panel 50 of the third type. The panel 1 of the first type and the panel 2 of the second type may have edge grooves along the edges, which should form the back side of the frame, which are adapted to correspond to the tongues of the panel of the third type, as shown in FIG. 10A, B. Further detailed solutions for the flange groove on the rear side and the tongue of the third panel 50 are described in WO 2015/03 8059, which is incorporated herein by reference.

The multi-module frame can be assembled by arranging two panels 1 of the first type so that their end surfaces 4b are parallel or, optionally, adjacent to each other. One of the panels 1 of the first type can be positioned such that one side, that is, the side opposite to the side facing the other panel, is opposite a stop surface such as a wall. The weight can then be shifted to another panel. Preferably, the person joining the panels can simply stand on the other panel so that the two panels 1 of the first type do not separate or move when joining the first panel 2 of the second type. After the first type panels 1 have been placed, the second type panels 2 are connected to the first type panels 1 located in place. Preferably, one panel 2 of the second type is connected to join two panels 1 of the first type and a panel 2 of the second type, as described above. The rear panel, i.e. the third type panel 50 as described above, can be attached, if required, prior to attaching two second type panels 2, one to each of the first type panels 1. Finally, two panels 1 of the first type are attached to the top of the panels of the second type to form the top section of the multi-module frame.

FIG. 6A-D show embodiments of a frame, such as a multi-module frame, which consists of three types of panels and may optionally also contain a third type of panel, as described above. Panels 60, 60a, 60b of the fourth type can be used as side frame members. Panels 60, 60a, 60b of the fourth type may be used instead of panels 2 of the second type as side panels of the frame to eliminate corner pieces. Panels 60, 60a, 60b of the fourth type are made with the possibility of connection with one panel 1 of the first type at each end. Thus, at each of the ends of the fourth type panel 60, 60a, 60b, only one tongue 9a, 9b, described in the embodiments above, is provided. If the configuration of the fourth type panel 60, 60a, 60b is symmetrical along the edge where the locking element is provided, the panel can be rotated so that one panel can be used as a side section on either side of the frame. In addition, the corner portion 61 may be formed integrally and from the same material with the panel 60, 60a, 60b. The end face of the corner portion 61 may be configured to be flush with the second side surface 7b of the first type panel 1, as shown in FIG. 7B. On the front edge of the fourth type panel 60, the tabs 9a, b may be spaced from the front edge, as described above, so that the tabs 9a, b are not visible from the front side of the chassis. In the case where the panel 60 of the fourth type is to be combined with the panel 50 of the third type,

- 10 038114 a separate panel may be provided for the left and right sides of the frame so that the groove for the third type panel 50 is towards the rear of the frame.

FIG. 12A is an enlarged side view of an embodiment of an end face 9 of panels 2a of the second type. The embodiment comprises tabs 9a, 9b that are offset from the first surface 8a and from the second surface 8b of the second panel 2a.

FIG. 12B shows an embodiment in which the locking elements with flexible tabs 30 are disposed in receiving grooves 20 that extend substantially perpendicular to the first surface 8a and the second surface 8b, respectively, of the second panel 2a. The function of the blocking element of FIG. 12B corresponds to the function of the blocking member described above and below.

FIG. 12C shows an embodiment in which the locking elements with flexible tabs 30 are located in the receiving grooves 20 in the panel 2 of the second type.

The tongue grooves 21a, b are located in the panel 1 of the first type. The receiving grooves 20 extend substantially perpendicular to the first surface 8a and the second surface 8b of the second panel 2a, respectively. The function of the blocking element of FIG. 12C corresponds to the function of the blocking member described above.

It should be understood that the features disclosed in the above description and / or in the above drawings and / or in the following claims and in any combinations thereof are material for realizing the present invention in its various forms. As used in the following claims, the terms comprises, includes, has, and their related words mean including, but not limited to.

The present invention has been described above with reference to specific embodiments. However, other embodiments than those described above are also possible within the scope of the invention. Other method steps than those described above may be contemplated within the scope of the invention. Various other features and steps of the invention may be combined with combinations other than those described. The scope of the invention is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims (9)

CLAIM 1. A set of panels for the assembled product, containing the first panel (1a); the second panel (1b); and a third panel (2a); wherein each first panel (1a) and each second panel (1b) comprise a first surface (7a), a second surface (7b) that is substantially parallel to the first surface (7a), a groove (4a) and an end surface (4b); the third panel (2a) comprises a first surface (8a) and a second surface (8b) that is substantially parallel to the first surface (8a) and an end surface extending at least partially between the first surface (8a) and the second surface (8b ) the third panel (2a); and the end surface of the third panel (2a) comprises a first tab (9a) and a second tab (9b); characterized in that the first panel (1a) and the second panel (1b) are arranged such that their respective end surfaces (4b) face each other and their respective edge grooves (4a) are parallel; the first tongue (9a) of the third panel (2a) is arranged to be positioned in the edge groove (4a) of the first panel (1a) for connecting the first panel (1a) and the third panel (2a) and the second tongue (9b) of the third panel (2a) is made with the possibility of receiving it by the edge groove (4a) of the second panel (2b) for connecting the second panel (1b) to the third panel (2a), whereby the first panel (1a), the second panel (1b) and the third panel (2a) are connected, according to at least in the first direction; each first panel (1a) and each second panel (1b) additionally comprise a receiving groove (20) for a flexible tongue (30), wherein the receiving groove (20) is located between the end surface (4b) and the first surface (7a) of the corresponding first panel ( 1a) and the second panel (1b); the third panel (2a) comprises a first tongue groove (21a) extending from its first surface (8a) and a second tongue groove (21b) extending from its second surface (8b); each groove (21a, 21b) for the tongue is configured to receive a part of the flexible tongue (30) when joining the first panel (1a), the second panel (1b) and the third panel (2a). 2. A set of panels according to claim 1, wherein the first panel (1a) and the second panel (1b) are arranged so that their respective end surfaces (4b) are adjacent to each other. 3. The set of panels according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one of the first and second panels comprises a flexible tab formed integrally with said at least one of the first and second panels and of the same material as and the material of said at least one of - 11 038114 of the first and second panels. 4. A set of panels according to any one of the preceding claims, in which each receiving groove (20) is inclined towards a corresponding first surface (7a) of the first panel (1a) and the second panel (1b), and wherein the corresponding first tongue (9a) and second tongue ( 9b) of the third panel (2a) is configured to push each flexible tab (30) into the receiving groove (20) when the third panel (2a) is connected to the first panel (1a) and to the second panel (1b). 5. A set of panels according to any one of the preceding claims, in which each first panel (1a) and each second panel (1b) comprises a tongue defined by its end surface (4b) and an edge groove (4a), and in which the third panel (2a) comprises at least one end groove between its first tongue (9a) and second tongue (9b). 6. The set of panels according to claim 5, wherein the end groove is at least partially formed by a side surface (9c) of a first tongue (9a) of a third panel (2a), a side surface (9d) of a second tongue (9b) of a third panel (2a) ) and the surface (9g) passing between the mentioned side surfaces (9c, 9d). 7. A set of panels according to claim 5 or 6, in which the third panel (2a) comprises one end groove between the first tongue (9a) and the second tongue (9b) of the third panel (2a) and in which the tongue of the first panel (1a) and the tongue the second panel (1b) are parts of a multi-part tongue, said multi-part tongue being formed when the first panel (1a) and the second panel (1b) are positioned such that their respective end surfaces (4a) abut each other to the other, and their respective edge grooves (4a) are arranged in parallel, and said multi-part tongue is arranged to be positioned in said one end groove of the third panel (2a). 8. A set of panels according to any one of claims 5-7, in which the end surface of the tongue of the first panel (1a) and the end surface of the tongue of the second panel (1b) are configured to abut the end groove of the third panel (2a), and the end surface of the first tongue (9a) of the third panel (2a) is configured to be spaced from the bottom wall of the edge groove (4a) of the first panel (1a), and the end surface of the second tongue (9b) of the third panel (2a) is configured to be spaced from the bottom wall an edge groove (4a) of the second panel (1b) when the panels are assembled; or the end surface of the tongue of the first panel (1a) and the end surface of the tongue of the second panel (1b) are arranged to be located at a distance from the end groove of the third panel (2a), and the end surface of the first tongue (9a) of the third panel (2a) is configured to abut to the bottom wall of the flange groove (4a) of the first panel (1a), and the end surface of the second tongue of the third panel (2a) is configured to abut the bottom wall of the flange groove (4a) of the second panel (1b) when the panels are assembled. 9. A set of panels according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the first panel (1a) and the second panel (1b) comprises at least one of a leading edge and a trailing edge that extends between the first surface (7a) and the second surface (7b) ) of the corresponding first panel (1a) and the second panel (1b), and wherein one adjacent end of the edge groove (4a) of the corresponding first panel (1a) and the second panel (1b) is at a distance from said at least one of the front edge and the rear edges.