EP1730366B1 - Panel element for covering - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a panel element (2) for laying on floors, walls and ceilings, said element comprising a rectangular base body (3) provided with a first head edge (4), a second head edge (5) opposing the first head edge (4), a first longitudinal edge (6) extending perpendicularly to the first head edge (4), and a second longitudinal edge (7) opposing the first longitudinal edge (6). Both head edges (4, 5) and both longitudinal edges (6, 7) are contoured in such a way that each edge can be connected to an adjacent panel element (2), the first longitudinal edge (6) comprising a groove and the second longitudinal edge (7) comprising a corresponding spring (11). The aim of the invention is to provide a panel element that can be produced in a simple manner with a plurality of different laying variants. To this end, the contours of the head edges (4, 5) are at least essentially identically embodied.

Description

The invention relates to a panel element for a covering for floor, wall and / or ceiling laying according to the preamble of claim 1. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for laying a covering, in particular a floor, wall and / or ceiling covering.

Panel elements of the type mentioned are known for a long time. Usually differently designed panel elements are used for different applications. In the usual strip laying, in which the panel elements longitudinal edge are laid on the longitudinal edge, panel elements are used, which have on the one hand a groove and on the other hand a spring at their longitudinal edges. The top edges are usually designed such that there is a latching connection between adjacent top edges. Panel elements of the aforementioned type, however, are not suitable to realize other installation variants that differ from the parallel arrangement of the panel elements.

A popular installation variant is the so-called herringbone laying. From the pamphlets WO 2004/063491 A . GB 295 492 A and WO 03/025307 A It is known to use differently designed panel elements for herringbone laying. Here, a so-called right and a left panel element is needed. This is not only expensive to manufacture, but also in the laying, in which the respective publisher must pay very close attention to which is the right and left panel element and how to lay the right and left panel elements. Another disadvantage is that the suitable for herringbone panel elements for other types of laying are in turn unsuitable. In addition, other installation variants, such as the cube or block laying are known in which also special panel elements are required, which in turn can not be used for other types of laying.

From the pamphlets WO 01/66877 A . US 885 751 A and US-A-1,982,478 Panel elements are already known with a rectangular base body, wherein the base body has a first head edge, a first head edge opposite the second head edge, a vertical to the first head edge extending first longitudinal edge and one of the first longitudinal edge opposite second longitudinal edge, wherein both top edges and longitudinal edges are contoured to allow at each edge a connection with an adjacent panel member, and wherein the first longitudinal edge has a groove and the second longitudinal edge has a corresponding spring , In the known panel element, the contours of the top edges are at least substantially identical and each have an undercut. To connect adjacent top edges, however, separate connecting elements are required, which is expensive.

The object of the present invention is to provide a panel element with which a very wide variety of installation variants can be realized in a simple manner.

To achieve the above object, it is provided that at each head edge following the undercut a step is provided and that between the lower leg of the first longitudinal edge and the step an engagement is provided to a connection between the groove of the first longitudinal edge and each head edge of a allow adjacent identical panel element. It is understood that the undercut is formed such that the groove contour of the first longitudinal edge is added to the two top edges, so there ultimately at least partially as "negative" finds again. Therefore, the spring of the second longitudinal edge can be inserted both in the groove of the first longitudinal edge and in the contour of the two top edges. Right and left panel elements to realize the herringbone pattern are then not required.

It is particularly preferred that the contours of the top edges are formed at least substantially identical, being meant with identical "functional identical", ie an identity with regard to the functional effects resulting from the contours, must be present. It goes without saying that the top edges of the contour can also be completely identical. For the sake of clarification, it should also be pointed out that "contouring of the top edges" means that they have a shape deviating from the vertical.

The invention provides a completely new type of panel element, in which due to the usual design of the longitudinal edges as tongue and groove connection it is not only possible to lay the panel elements in parallel or in strip form, but also in any other laying variants. Thus, it is possible for the first time by the invention to come to a so-called one-bar variant in herringbone patterns. So it is only a panel element required to realize the Fischgrätvariante.

Preferably, the tongue and groove connection is formed on the longitudinal edges such that in an already laid panel element to be laid panel element is inserted via the spring into the groove and then pivoted down.

In the embodiment according to the invention, it is preferred that the first and the second longitudinal edges are formed such that a latching connection results between adjacent laid panel elements. In this way results after pivoting a secure connection between adjacent longitudinal edges.

In this context, at least one latching projection is provided on one longitudinal edge and a corresponding latching opening is provided on the other longitudinal edge. For manufacturing reasons, it is advantageous that at least one latching projection on the longitudinal edge and a corresponding latching opening are provided on the other longitudinal edge.

In terms of design, a shorter thigh and a longer lower leg are provided on the groove-side longitudinal side. The lower leg ultimately stands over the upper end edge of the longitudinal edge. To realize the locking connection between longitudinal edges of adjacent laid panel elements, the latching opening is provided on the upper side of the lower leg and the latching projection on the underside of the spring.

In order to realize a connection between the spring-side longitudinal edge and the top edge, the top edge has a thigh. At least one engagement is provided between the thigh and the spring. Specifically, in this context, is at the bottom of the thigh an engagement projection for engaging in an engagement opening provided on the top of the spring to achieve a fixation in the horizontal direction. It is understood that it is also possible in principle to provide the engagement projection on the spring and the engagement opening on the thigh. Furthermore, a further engagement between the thigh and the longitudinal edge may be provided for fixing in the vertical direction.

To provide the connection between the groove-side longitudinal edge and the top edge is - as stated - provided at the top edge following the undercut a step, between the lower leg and the step at least one engagement for fixing in vertical and / or horizontal direction is realized. Specifically, at the bottom of the step, an engaging projection for engaging an engaging hole at the top of the lower leg is provided. As mentioned above, the arrangement can also be chosen the other way round.

The engagement, both between the top edge and the spring-side longitudinal edge and between the top edge and the groove-side longitudinal edge, can each be designed as a latching connection or in the form of corresponding ramps. It makes sense that all locking connections, so not only between the top edge and the longitudinal edges, but also the locking connection between the longitudinal edges, are formed such that the top side end edges of adjacent panel elements are pressed against each other, so that a substantially play- and gap-free plant results. The same applies to the use of bevels.

Due to the aforementioned contour formation of the head sides, it is not possible per se to connect two contiguous top edges directly with each other. However, a connection is possible in that between adjoining top edges, a connecting element is arranged, which engages in at least one engagement projection, ie the thigh and / or at the stage. The engagement projection then has corresponding engagement openings which are provided on the spring or on the lower leg.

In the laying method according to the invention, in which the panel elements are at least partially laid at right angles to each other, the invention provides that for the covering such panel elements are used for laying, the top edges are contoured at least substantially identical. As already stated, the invention offers the advantage that for laying variants that differ from the pure parallel laying of the panel elements, ie in particular when herringbone, cube or block laying, only one type of panel element is required, which both the production and the Relocation much easier. Due to the above-described design of the panel elements adjacent panel elements are pivoted in the region of the longitudinal edges. It can then be provided in the region of the adjacent longitudinal edges a latching connection. In addition, the panel elements in the region of adjacent longitudinal edges and end edges can also be engaged and thus connected to each other. In principle, however, it is also possible that no direct connection of the adjacent panel elements is provided between adjacent head and longitudinal edges.

Moreover, it is possible in the embodiment according to the invention that the panel elements can be installed in four mutually perpendicular directions. This, too, ultimately results from the special configuration of the panel element according to the invention.

Fig. 1

eine Draufsicht auf eine Mehrzahl von im Fischgrätmuster verlegten erfindungsgemäßen Paneelelementen;

Fig. 2

eine Ansicht einer ersten Ausführungsform der Erfindung entlang des Schnitts A-A aus Fig. 1;

Fig. 3

eine Ansicht der ersten Ausführungsform der Erfindung entlang des Schnitts B-B aus Fig. 1;

Fig. 4

eine Ansicht der ersten Ausführungsform der Erfindung entlang des Schnitts C-C aus Fig. 1;

Fig. 5

eine Ansicht einer zweiten Ausführungsform der Erfindung entlang des Schnitts B-B aus Fig. 1,

Fig. 6

eine Ansicht der zweiten Ausführungsform der Erfindung entlang des Schnitts C-C aus Fig. 1,

Fig. 7

eine Ansicht einer dritten Ausführungsform der Erfindung entlang des Schnitts A-A aus Fig. 1,

Fig. 8

eine Ansicht der dritten Ausführungsform der Erfindung entlang des Schnitts B-B aus Fig. 1,

Fig. 9

eine Ansicht der dritten Ausführungsform der Erfindung entlang des Schnitts C-C aus Fig. 1,

Fig. 10

eine Ansicht einer vierten Ausführungsform der Erfindung entlang des Schnitts A-A aus Fig. 1,

Fig. 11

eine Ansicht der vierten Ausführungsform der Erfindung entlang des Schnitts B-B aus Fig. 1,

Fig. 12

eine Ansicht der vierten Ausführungsform der Erfindung entlang des Schnitts C-C aus Fig. 1,

Fig. 13

eine Ansicht einer fünften Ausführungsform der Erfindung entlang des Schnitts A-A aus Fig. 1,

Fig. 14

eine Ansicht der fünften Ausführungsform der Erfindung entlang des Schnitts B-B aus Fig. 1,

Fig. 15

eine Ansicht der fünften Ausführungsform der Erfindung entlang des Schnitts C-C aus Fig. 1,

Fig. 16.

eine Ansicht einer nicht zur vorliegenden Erfindung gehörenden Ausführungsform entlang des Schnitts A-A aus Fig. 1

Fig. 17

eine Ansicht der Ausführungsform aus Fig. 16 entlang des Schnitts B-B aus Fig. 1

Fig. 18

eine Ansicht der Ausführungsform aus Fig. 16 entlang der Schnitt C-C aus Fig. 1,

Fig. 19

eine Ansicht einer sechsten Ausführungsform der Erfindung entlang des Schnitts A-A aus Fig. 1,

Fig. 20

eine Ansicht der sechsten Ausführungsform der Erfindung entlang des Schnitts B-B aus Fig. 1,

Fig. 21

eine Ansicht der sechsten Ausführungsform der Erfindung entlang des Schnitts C-C aus Fig. 1,

Fig. 22

eine Ansicht einer siebten Ausführungsform der Erfindung entlang des Schnitts A-A aus Fig. 1,

Fig. 23

eine Ansicht der siebten Ausführungsform der Erfindung entlang des Schnitts B-B aus Fig. 1,

Fig. 24

eine Ansicht der siebten Ausführungsform der Erfindung entlang des Schnitts C-C aus Fig. 1,

Fig. 25

eine Ansicht einer achten Ausführungsform der Erfindung entlang des Schnitts A-A aus Fig. 1,

Fig. 26

eine Ansicht der achten Ausführungsform der Erfindung entlang des Schnitts B-B aus Fig. 1,

Fig. 27

eine Ansicht der achten Ausführungsform der Erfindung entlang des Schnitts C-C aus Fig. 1,

Fig. 28

eine Draufsicht auf ein im Raum verlegtes Fischgrätmuster;

Fig. 29

eine Draufsicht auf ein im Raum verlegtes Fischgrätmuster mit einer anderen Verlegevariante,

Fig. 30

eine Draufsicht auf ein im Raum verlegtes Fischgrätmuster mit einer weiteren Verlegevariante,

Fig. 31

eine Draufsicht auf ein in anderer Weise in einem Raum verlegtes Fischgrätmuster;

Fig. 32

eine Draufsicht auf ein im Raum verlegtes Würfel- oder Blockmuster;

Fig. 33

eine Draufsicht auf ein diagonal im Raum verlegtes Würfel- oder Blockmuster;

Fig. 34

eine Draufsicht auf ein im Raum verlegtes, kombiniertes GitterWürfelmuster;

Fig. 35

eine Draufsicht auf ein im Raum verlegtes, kombiniertes WürfelStreifenmuster mit breiteren Streifen;

Fig. 36

eine Draufsicht auf ein im Raum verlegtes Würfel-Streifenmuster mit dünneren Streifen; und

Fig. 37

eine Draufsicht auf ein im Raum verlegtes Längs- und Querstreifenmuster.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Showing:

Fig. 1

a plan view of a plurality of laid in herringbone pattern panel elements according to the invention;

Fig. 2

a view of a first embodiment of the invention along the section AA Fig. 1 ;

Fig. 3

a view of the first embodiment of the invention along the section BB Fig. 1 ;

Fig. 4

a view of the first embodiment of the invention along the section CC Fig. 1 ;

Fig. 5

a view of a second embodiment of the invention along the section BB Fig. 1 .

Fig. 6

a view of the second embodiment of the invention along the section CC Fig. 1 .

Fig. 7

a view of a third embodiment of the invention along the section AA Fig. 1 .

Fig. 8

a view of the third embodiment of the invention along the section BB Fig. 1 .

Fig. 9

a view of the third embodiment of the invention along the section CC Fig. 1 .

Fig. 10

a view of a fourth embodiment of the invention along the section AA Fig. 1 .

Fig. 11

a view of the fourth embodiment of the invention along the section BB Fig. 1 .

Fig. 12

a view of the fourth embodiment of the invention along the section CC Fig. 1 .

Fig. 13

a view of a fifth embodiment of the invention along the section AA Fig. 1 .

Fig. 14

a view of the fifth embodiment of the invention along the section BB Fig. 1 .

Fig. 15

a view of the fifth embodiment of the invention along the section CC Fig. 1 .

Fig. 16.

a view of an embodiment not belonging to the present invention along the section AA Fig. 1

Fig. 17

a view of the embodiment of Fig. 16 along the section BB off Fig. 1

Fig. 18

a view of the embodiment of Fig. 16 along the section CC off Fig. 1 .

Fig. 19

a view of a sixth embodiment of the invention along the section AA Fig. 1 .

Fig. 20

a view of the sixth embodiment of the invention along the section BB Fig. 1 .

Fig. 21

a view of the sixth embodiment of the invention along the section CC Fig. 1 .

Fig. 22

a view of a seventh embodiment of the invention along the section AA Fig. 1 .

Fig. 23

a view of the seventh embodiment of the invention along the section BB Fig. 1 .

Fig. 24

a view of the seventh embodiment of the invention along the section CC Fig. 1 .

Fig. 25

a view of an eighth embodiment of the invention along the section AA Fig. 1 .

Fig. 26

a view of the eighth embodiment of the invention along the section BB Fig. 1 .

Fig. 27

a view of the eighth embodiment of the invention along the section CC Fig. 1 .

Fig. 28

a plan view of a herringbone pattern laid in space;

Fig. 29

a top view of a herringbone pattern laid in space with another laying variant,

Fig. 30

a top view of a herringbone pattern laid in space with a further laying variant,

Fig. 31

a plan view of a herringbone pattern laid in another way in a room;

Fig. 32

a top view of a displaced in space cube or block pattern;

Fig. 33

a plan view of a cube or block pattern laid diagonally in space;

Fig. 34

a plan view of an in-space, combined grid cube pattern;

Fig. 35

a plan view of a space laid, combined cube stripe pattern with wider stripes;

Fig. 36

a plan view of an in-space cube-striped pattern with thinner stripes; and

Fig. 37

a plan view of a laid in space longitudinal and horizontal strip pattern.

In each of the figures, linings 1 are shown, which are each formed from a plurality of panel elements 2. The coverings 1 may be floor, wall and / or ceiling coverings. Each of the panel elements 2 has a rectangular basic body 3, which in the present case has the shape of an elongated rectangle whose short sides are smaller by a multiple than its long sides. Basically, it is synonymous possible to form the main body 3 square. The base body 3 and thus the panel element 2 has four edges, wherein adjacent edges are at right angles to each other, while opposing edges parallel to each other.

Provided are a first head edge 4 and a second head edge 5. Furthermore, a first longitudinal edge 6 and a second longitudinal edge 7 are provided. It is important that all edges 4, 5, 6, 7 are contoured, i. have a shape deviating from a pure vertical section. By contouring, it is possible to allow at each edge a direct or at least an indirect connection with an adjacent panel element 2, between adjacent longitudinal edges, between longitudinal edges and top edges and between top edges with each other. This is not possible with blunt adjacent edges with vertical cut. The two longitudinal edges 6, 7 are presently designed as a tongue and groove connection. In the illustrated embodiment, the first longitudinal edge 6 is formed like a groove or has a corresponding groove, while the second longitudinal edge 7 has a corresponding spring.

It is now provided that the contours of the two top edges 4, 5 are formed at least substantially identical. In the illustrated embodiments, the contours of the top edges 4, 5 are formed like an undercut, so have an undercut 8, which is formed in the manner of a step. In each case, the undercut 8 of the relevant contour is formed such that the groove contour of the first longitudinal edge 6 is received at both top edges 4, 5 and transmitted to this. This will be in conjunction with the Fig. 3 and 4 discussed in more detail.

As already stated, the two longitudinal edges 6, 7 are formed such that there is a tongue and groove connection. For this purpose, the first longitudinal edge 6 has an incised groove 10, while at the second longitudinal edge 7, a spring 11 is provided. In Fig. 2 the tongue and groove connection between adjacent panel elements 2 at the longitudinal edges 6, 7 is shown. It is understood that the in Fig. 2 shown right panel element 2, which has on its left side the first longitudinal edge 6 with the groove 10 at its not shown right side has the second longitudinal edge 7 with the spring 11. The tongue and groove connection between the first longitudinal edge 6 and the second longitudinal edge 7 is formed such that a panel element 2 to be laid pivoted with the spring 11 of the second longitudinal edge in the groove 10 of an already laid panel element 2 and at the same time in the groove 10th can be inserted. To facilitate pivoting in, the groove 10 is provided with a slope 12 to widen the slot opening. The spring 11 is rounded at its front end 13. Moreover, the spring 11 is slightly inclined in the direction of the upper side 14 of the panel element 2, so that in the inserted state the spring 11 presses against the groove 10 on the upper side.

In addition to the tongue and groove connection is provided on the longitudinal edges 6, 7 but also a locking connection. For this purpose, a latching projection 15 is provided on the second longitudinal edge 7, while at the first longitudinal edge 6 a corresponding latching opening 16 is located. Specifically, the first longitudinal edge 6 is formed such that the groove 10 is located between a shorter thigh 17 and a longer lower leg 18. The lower leg 18 is thus over the thigh 17 via.

The thigh 17 is bounded on the upper side by the upper side 14 of the panel element 2. In the present case, a bevel 19 provided for optical reasons adjoins the upper side 14, which leads to a corresponding bevel 19 of an adjacent panel element 2 to form a V-shaped notch. The chamfer 19 is not necessarily required. At the bevel 19, or, if this is dispensed with, to the top 14 is followed by a vertically extending end edge 20, which abuts in the installed state to a corresponding end edge 20 of the adjacent panel element 2. At the front edge 20, in turn, the previously mentioned slope 12 connects. The lower leg 18 is extended significantly beyond the front edge 20 addition. The latching opening 16 starts in the present case only after the end edge 20. The latching connection between the latching projection 15 of the latching opening 16 in the present case has a contact point 23 which is on the side facing away from the groove 10 is provided. The locking connection is formed in the result such that the upper side end edges 20 the adjacent panel elements 2 are pressed against each other, so that there is a substantially backlash-free investment and thus a gap.

The top edges 4, 5 are, as already stated, identical. By the identity of the top edges 4, 5 it is meant that there is an identity of the contours with respect to their functional areas and sections to be discussed below. Of course, it is possible, for example, to carry out an undercut or a projection on one head edge longer or shorter than on the other head edge. Identity in the sense of the present invention is given if the functional elements correspond to sections and areas which will be discussed below and thus to a connection to the second longitudinal edge 7, as shown in FIG Fig. 3 is shown, and a connection with the first longitudinal edge 6, as shown in FIG Fig. 4 is shown is possible.

Since both top edges 4, 5 are not identical in function as in the aforementioned sense, but are completely identical, only the top edge 4 will be discussed in more detail below. The following explanations apply correspondingly to the top edge 5.

Between the thigh 9 of the head edge 4 and the spring 11 an engagement is presently provided. In the illustrated embodiment, an engagement projection 25 is provided on the underside 24 of the thigh 9, which engages in an engagement opening 26 which is provided on the upper side 27 of the spring 11. The engagement between the engagement projection 25 and the engagement opening 26 is presently designed as a latching connection. In this case, a contact point 28 is provided. The latching connection is formed overall so that the end edge 20 of the head edge 4 is pressed in the direction of the end edge 20 of the second longitudinal edge 7, so that again results in a gap-free connection.

In the illustrated embodiment, the locking connection is formed such that only results in a locking in the horizontal direction by the engagement. In principle, it is also possible to form the engagement such that there is also a locking in the vertical direction. This is in the Fig. 5 and 6 shown in the second embodiment. Here, the procedure is designed as a so-called push button connection. Out Fig. 5 It follows that the engagement projection 25 has a further region 25a, which is engaged behind by a region 25b at an edge 25c on the engagement opening 26 of the spring-side longitudinal edge 7, so that a locking results in the vertical direction. At the groove-side longitudinal edge 6, the further region 25a engages behind the edge 25c between the bevel 12 and the end edge 20, so that a corresponding locking also results here. Otherwise, the first and second embodiments agree, so that it is possible to dispense with a further description.

Following the undercut 8, a step 29 is provided at the top edge 4. To connect the first longitudinal edge 6 with the top edge 4, an engagement is also provided between the lower leg 18 and the step 29. For this purpose, located on the underside 30 of the step 29, an engagement projection 31 for engagement in an engagement opening 32 which is provided on the upper side 21 of the lower leg 18. The engagement opening 32 is still behind the detent opening 16 with respect to the groove 10. The shape corresponding to the detent opening 16 and the engagement opening 32. Further correspond to the form of the engagement projection 31 and the locking projection 15 so that ultimately results in an identical latching connection, as has already been described in connection with the latching projection 15 and the latching opening 16. Accordingly, the locking engagement performed between the engagement projection 31 and the engagement opening 32 again acts such that the end edges 20 of the first longitudinal edge 6 and the top edge 4 abut each other gap.

From a comparison of Fig. 3 and 4 shows that two adjacent panel elements 2, which abut each other only at their top edges 4, 5, are not directly connected to each other. Since adjacent panel elements 2 but not only at the top edges 4, 5 are connected to each other, but also at the longitudinal edges, could basically be dispensed with a connection to the top edges. In principle, however, it is also possible to provide a separate connecting element, which can extend over the entire length of the respective head edge 4, 5, in order to achieve a connection. Push the end edges 20 of two adjacent panel elements 2 to the Head edges 4, 5 to each other, resulting from the undercut 8 and the step 29 extending in the leading edge direction cavity. In this cavity, an unillustrated connection element can be inserted, which rests on the ground and on its upper side has latching or engagement openings which correspond to the engagement opening 26 and / or the engagement opening 32. It can therefore be provided between two and four engagement openings. In this engagement openings then engage the engagement projections 25 and / or 31 a.

In the Fig. 7 to 15 and 19 to 27 further embodiments of the invention are shown. As already related to the Fig. 2 to 4 on the details of the panel element 2 according to the invention in the region of its top edges 4, 5 and the longitudinal edges 6, 7 has been received, will be discussed below only the differences.

The in the Fig. 7 to 9 illustrated third embodiment differs from that in the Fig. 2 to 4 illustrated embodiment to the effect that only a latching opening 16 is provided on the lower leg 18 of the first longitudinal edge 6. In this engages the locking projection 15 of the second longitudinal edge 7, wherein a contact point 23 results. Since only one latching opening 16 is provided, the lower leg 18 can be made correspondingly shorter. Also, the groove 10 and the spring 11 are made shorter than in the previously described embodiment. The spring 11 has the shape of a hook at the end.

Furthermore, in each case one step is provided between the adjoining end edges 20 in the lower region, so that a narrow slot 20a results with edges running parallel. This results in that the end edges 20 have a smaller extension in the vertical direction. The plant of the panel elements 2 on the end edges 20 thus takes place over a lower height, resulting in a more precise investment.

Out Fig. 8 shows that the undercut 8 is adapted to the leg 9 of the respective head edge to the hook shape of the spring 11. In this case, both the end of the spring 11 and the engagement projection 25 facing each other bevels 11a, 25a, which bear against each other. The bevels 11a, 25a lead ultimately to the fact that the end edges 20 are pressed against each other. Moreover, the end edges 20 each have the same length, which is shortened compared to the embodiment 2 to 4. At the end edges 20, the slot 20a connects at the bottom.

Out Fig. 9 shows that the engagement projection 31 engages the leg 9 in the latching opening 16. This results in a contact point 23 corresponding contact point 23a, so that the locking ultimately presses the end edges 20 against each other.

The in the 10 to 12 illustrated fourth embodiment substantially corresponds to the third embodiment of Fig. 7 to 9 , One difference is that the latching projection 15 and the latching opening 16 are not rounded, so that ultimately no point-shaped contact results in the latching, but that the latching projection 15, a slope 15a and the latching opening a corresponding slope 16a are provided. This results in a flat system. Moreover, the detent opening 16 is formed as a whole larger than the latching projection 15, so that there is a remaining slot 16b. Another difference is that no narrow slot 20a with parallel edges is provided. Instead, adjoining the abutting end edges 20 to a V-shaped notch 20b, which widens greatly on both sides. In addition, the spring 11 is flattened at its upper end following the slope 11a, so has a flattening 11b, the upper side of the groove 10 is flat.

With regard to the angular or beveled detent opening 16 and the engagement projection 31 is provided with a corresponding slope 31 a. Incidentally, the engaging projection 31 is greatly extended at its end. Due to the extension 31b of the engagement projection 31 forms a kind of slot for the spring 11 in the region of the undercut 8 on the side opposite the slope 31a, the engagement projection 31 has a further slope 31c, against which the spring 11 abuts. Due to the slot-like design of the undercut 8 in this area ultimately results in a secure connection between the longitudinal edge 7 and the top edge 4. Moreover, the end edge 20 at the top edge 4 by a groove 20c reduced. The groove 20c has only a small extension in the vertical direction but ultimately causes the front edge 20 at this point in the vertical direction has a smaller extent than the front edge 20 on the opposite side. This also leads to a more precise investment. Furthermore, the engagement projection 26 is provided on the engaging projection 25 a cross-engaging portion 25a, wherein in this area a flat contact over corresponding slopes 25d is provided.

The in the Fig. 13 to 15 illustrated fifth embodiment differs from the fourth embodiment in that the recess 20b is not formed V-shaped but relatively wide in the manner of a rectangle. The upper limits of the notch 20d are approximately horizontal. Instead of the slope 25d so that a step 25e provided on the spring-side longitudinal edge 7. At the groove-side longitudinal edge 6 is instead of the slope 12 also has a step 12a. At level 25e, it's up to you Fig. 14 yields, the further area 25a with its upper side, which is formed correspondingly flat. In the same way, the connection between the top edge 4 and the groove-side longitudinal edge 6 takes place between the further region 25a and the step 12a, as is apparent from Fig. 15 results.

In the Fig. 16 to 18 is a not part of the present invention, a very simple contoured embodiment shown, which facilitates the understanding of the invention. Out Fig. 16 shows that the spring 11 has an elongated shape. At the bottom of the spring 11 is the latching projection 15 which engages in the latching opening 16. The adjacent end edges 20 abut each other. At the groove-side longitudinal edge 6, the slope 12 connects to the front edge 20. At the spring-side longitudinal edge 7, the engagement opening 26a is provided following the end edge 20.

Out Fig. 17 shows that the leg 9 is designed to be flat on the underside. The spring 11 abuts with its upper side on the underside of the leg 9. A lock in the horizontal direction is not provided. Out Fig. 17 it also follows that adjoins the leg 9, an engagement portion 25a, which is provided on the upper side with a corresponding slope 25f. This slope 25f corresponds to the slope 25d of the engagement opening 26a. Due to the engagement portion 25a engaging the engagement hole 26a, results in a blockage in the vertical direction. This also results from the rest Fig. 18 where the engagement portion 25a engages under the thigh 17 and rests with its slope 25f on the slope 12.

In the in the Fig. 19 to 21 illustrated sixth embodiment, in turn, a tongue and groove connection with locking connection is provided on the two longitudinal edges 6, 7. Out Fig. 19 shows that above the spring 11 formed as at least partially horizontally extending groove engaging opening 26a, in which the correspondingly formed engaging portion 25a spring-like engages ( Fig. 20 ). Incidentally, an engagement opening 26 is provided on the upper side of the spring 11, in which a corresponding engagement projection 25 engages. The engagement projection 25 is ultimately part of the leg 9 or of the engagement region 25a. By the in Fig. 20 illustrated embodiment results in a fixation in the horizontal and vertical directions.

Out Fig. 21 shows that the engagement portion 25a engages under the thigh 17, while the engagement projection 31 engages in the latching opening 16 on the lower leg 18. In the region of the thigh 17, instead of the bevel 12, a step-like design in adaptation to the stepped shape of the engagement region 25a is provided.

The in the FIGS. 22 to 24 illustrated seventh embodiment corresponds functionally to the seventh embodiment. Differences are only in the formation of the engagement portion 25a, which has only a slope with corresponding counter-slope, while in the embodiment described above, a double stage is provided with horizontal surfaces.

Also in the Fig. 25 to 27 illustrated eighth embodiment corresponds functionally to the embodiment described above, wherein the engagement portion 25a is designed only as a relatively short nose. Another difference is that, as in the embodiment according to Fig. 2 to 4 , two latching openings 16, 32 are provided on the groove-side lower leg 18, wherein in the latching opening 16 of the latching projection 15 engages the spring 11, while in the engagement opening 32 of the engagement projection 31 engages the top edge 4.

In all embodiments, the panel element 2 may basically consist of laminate, a multi-layer structure or solid wood. The thickness of the panel element may be between 4 and 25 mm. It is not shown that the contoured edge region may consist of a different material than the base body 3. Thus, the contoured edge region, for example, made of plastic or metal, which is particularly suitable when very thin and / or very soft materials are used for the main body 3. The contoured edge region can then be glued, for example, to the base body 3 or connected in another way.

The inventive design of the panel element 2 not only allows the usual strip laying of the panel elements 2, not shown, whereby also at the top edges 4, 5 via the connecting elements, not shown, a sufficient connection between adjacent panel elements 2 can be made. In Fig. 28 is a laid in a room flooring 1 shown herringbone. The key advantage of this type of laying is that a so-called single-rod laying is possible, so not, as usual in the prior art, a right rod and a left rod are required.

Incidentally, in connection with herringbone laying, it is advisable to provide preassembled end pieces 33, which have the shape of a right angle. These end pieces 33 have a predetermined size and can be shortened if necessary. Incidentally, a further advantage in connection with the present invention results precisely in herringbone laying in that laying in four assembly directions M1, M2, M3 and M4 is possible. The publisher can thus lay in one, several or all directions. As far as that goes Fig. 1 with reference. Although a pivoting of the panel elements 2 in the manner described above is only possible if the panel element 2 is already laid with the first grooved longitudinal edge, but the contouring according to the invention with correspondingly rounded transitions to the relevant also allows insertion in the horizontal direction, if the Slot side is pushed onto the already laid spring side in the horizontal direction.

In Fig. 29 is another variant of the herringbone shown. The difference from the embodiment according to Fig. 28 is that each two panel elements 2 are arranged parallel to each other.

In the embodiment according to Fig. 30 is also a laying variant herringbone provided. In this case, different panel elements 2 are used. The different panel elements 2 are located in different rows.

In Fig. 31 also a herringbone installation is shown, however, a diagonal arrangement in space and thus at an angle of 45 ° to the arrangement according to Fig. 5 ,

In Fig. 32 the cube or block laying variant of the covering 1 with the panel elements 2 is shown. Also for laying this variant, the panel element 1 according to the invention is readily suitable.

At the in Fig. 33 illustrated embodiment of the pad 1 is also the cube variant provided, but in diagonal laying, ie offset by 45 ° to the arrangement according to Fig. 7 ,

In Fig. 34 a lining 1 is shown, which has cube elements, which are arranged in grid openings, wherein the grid 34 is formed by panel elements, which in any case correspond to the panel elements 2 from the contour, but are colored on the top side opposite the panel elements 2. In the lattice form, it is so that partially panel elements 2 abut each other on the edge edge side. In this case, the connecting elements described above are then provided.

At the in Fig. 35 illustrated variant cubes segments are provided in rows. The individual rows are interrupted by strips with longitudinal panel elements 2. In the present case, each of the strips is composed of three rows of panel elements 2. In this embodiment, again connecting elements for the head edge side connection of adjacent panel elements 2 are provided.

The embodiment according to Fig. 36 equals to Fig. 35 in that the strips with the longitudinal panels have only one row of panel elements 2.

In the Fig. 37 illustrated embodiment is similar to in Fig. 35 , wherein instead of the cube segments a plurality of rows are provided, in which the panel elements 2 strip-shaped longitudinal edge are arranged on the longitudinal edge.

As a result, the inventive method for laying a covering 1, wherein panel elements 2 are at least partially laid at right angles to each other, characterized in that panel elements 2 are used, which at their respective first and second head edge 4, 5 from its contour at least are formed substantially identical. Such a configuration offers the advantage that a wide variety of laying patterns and ultimately also different sizes of panel elements can be used. The laying is very easy, since adjacent panel elements 2 are pivoted at their longitudinal edges and usually locked. At the transition between the edge of the head and the longitudinal edge, latching can take place but does not have to take place. If a locking is realized, a so-called push-button connection should be provided.

Claims (17)

1. Panel element (2) for laying on floors, walls and/or ceilings, comprising a rectangular basic body (3), wherein the basic body (3) has a first head edge (4), a second head edge (5) opposed to the first head edge (4), a first longitudinal edge (6) extending perpendicularly to the first head edge (4), and a second longitudinal edge (7) opposed to the first longitudinal edge (6), wherein both head edges (4, 5) and both longitudinal edges (6, 7) are contoured so as to allow a connection with an adjacent panel element (2) at each edge, and wherein the first longitudinal edge (6) has a groove (10) and the second longitudinal edge (7) has a corresponding tongue (11), wherein a shorter upper leg (17) and longer lower leg (18) are provided on the first longitudinal edge (6), wherein the contours of the head edges (4, 5) each have an undercut (8) so as to allow an engagement of the tongue (11) of the second longitudinal edge (7) in the contour of each head edge (4, 5) of an adjacent, identical panel element (2), characterized in that a step (29) is provided on each head edge (4, 5) adjoining the undercut (8), and in that an engagement facility is provided between the lower leg (18) of the first longitudinal edge (6) and the step (29) so as to allow a connection between the groove (10) of the first longitudinal edge (6) and each head edge (4, 5) of an adjacent, identical panel element (2).
2. Panel element according to Claim 1, characterized in that the contours of the head edges (4, 5) are at least substantially identically formed.
3. Panel element according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the tongue and groove connection at the longitudinal edges (6, 7) is formed in such a way that a panel element (2) can be pivoted into a ready-laid panel element (2).
4. Panel element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first and the second longitudinal edge (6, 7) are formed in such a way as to produce a latching connection between adjacent laid panel elements (2).
5. Panel element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one latching projection (15) is provided on one longitudinal edge (7) and a corresponding latching opening (16) is provided on the other longitudinal edge (6).
6. Panel element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the latching opening (16) is provided on the upper side (21) of the lower leg (18) and the latching projection (15) is provided on the lower side (22) of the tongue (11).
7. Panel element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an upper leg (9) is provided on the head edge (4, 5), and in that at least one engagement facility is provided between the upper leg (9) and the tongue-side longitudinal edge (7) in order to achieve fastening in the horizontal and/or vertical direction.
8. Panel element according to Claim 7, characterized in that an engagement projection (25) is provided on the lower side (24) of the upper leg (9) for engaging in an engagement opening (26) on the upper side (27) of the tongue (11).
9. Panel element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an engagement projection (31) is provided on the lower side (30) of the step (29) for engaging in an engagement opening (32) on the upper side (21) of the lower leg (18).
10. Panel element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the engagement facility is embodied as a latching connection.
11. Panel element according to one of Claims 4 to 10, characterized in that the latching connection of adjacent panel elements (2) is embodied in such a way that the upper-side end edges (20) of adjacent panel elements (2) are pressed against one another so as to produce a substantially clearance-free abutment.
12. Panel element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a connecting element is provided to connect adjacent head edges (4, 5), and in that, preferably, an engagement facility is provided between the head edge (4, 5) and the connecting element.
13. Method of laying a covering, in particular a floor, wall and/or ceiling covering, comprising a plurality of panel elements (2), wherein the panel elements (2) each have a rectangular basic body (3), wherein the basic body (3) has a first head edge (4), a second head edge (5) opposed to the first head edge (4), a first longitudinal edge (6) extending perpendicularly to the first head edge (4), and a second longitudinal edge (7) opposed to the first longitudinal edge (6), wherein both head edges (4, 5) and both longitudinal edges (6, 7) are contoured so as to allow a connection with an adjacent panel element (2) at each edge, and wherein the first longitudinal edge (6) has a groove (10) and the second longitudinal edge (7) has a corresponding tongue (11), wherein a shorter upper leg (17) and longer lower leg (18) are provided on the first longitudinal edge (6), wherein the contours of the head edges (4, 5) each have an undercut (8) so as to allow an engagement of the tongue (11) of the second longitudinal edge (7) in the contour of each head edge (4, 5) of an adjacent, identical panel element (2), wherein a step (29) is provided on each head edge (4, 5) adjoining the undercut (8), wherein an engagement facility is provided between the lower leg (18) of the first longitudinal edge (6) and the step (29) so as to allow a connection between the groove (10) of the first longitudinal edge (6) and each head edge (4, 5) of an adjacent, identical panel element (2), wherein adjacent panel elements are laid at least in part at a right angle to one another, and wherein the panel elements used for laying are ones which are each at least substantially identically contoured at their mutually opposed head edges.
14. Method according to Claim 13, characterized in that the panel elements are laid in a herringbone, block and/or basket pattern.
15. Method according to Claim 13 or 14, characterized in that during the laying operation adjacent panel elements are pivoted into place in the region of adjacent longitudinal edges.
16. Method according to one of the preceding method claims, characterized in that during the laying operation adjacent panel elements are latched into place in the longitudinal edge/head edge region or rest against one another without a direct connection.
17. Method according to one of the preceding method claims, characterized in that the panel elements are laid in four mutually perpendicular directions.

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