EP2572896A1 - Device for finishing a panel - Google Patents

Abstract

The device has a coating device (124) that applies a coating comprising a primer to the surface of panel (102). The upper side of the primer is applied in the form of core pressed synthetic resin layer. A primer layer is formed on the upper side of the opposite bottom side of the resin layer. A printing unit (110) is arranged for printing a decoration on the primer or the primer layer. Several decorative patterns are stored in the form of electronic data in a data memory. One of the patterns is selected by user and the selected pattern is printed on the panel by the printing unit.

Description

The invention relates to a device for finishing a panel with a core of wood-based material having on one top a primer in the form of at least one pressed to the core resin layer and possibly a primer layer and on a top side opposite the underside a coating. Such panels are known as laminate panels.

Laminate panels have been state-of-the-art for quite some time nowadays and can no longer be imagined today in a variety of applications, in particular as a replacement for real wood panels. A particularly large field of application consists in the cladding of walls, ceilings and floors, where from respective wall, ceiling and floor panels, the respective panel is assembled. Of course, different requirements are placed on the surface properties of such laminate panels in various fields of application. A floor panel is naturally exposed to much greater loads than, for example, a wall or ceiling paneling.

The large-scale production of laminate panels involves a whole series of production steps, which are largely the same for the different types of panels. It is first a support plate, for example made of a wood material such as MDF, HDF or OSB, provided and this coated with several layers optionally different materials. On an optionally pretreated surface of a wood-based panel, as Core of the panel to be produced, a decorative layer is applied. This can be done for example in the form of a printed impregnated paper. The paper can also be printed directly on top of the wood-based panel. This can be done by means of pressure rollers or a digital printer. Before the decor is printed, optionally, a primer layer can be applied to the surface of the wood-based panel. This decor must, in particular if the panel is to be used as a floor panel, be covered by at least one wear layer. This can for example consist of a paint or a synthetic resin. Advantageously, abrasion-resistant particles (eg corundum) are added, which make the surface of the finished panel more resistant to the burden of walking. The layer structure with optionally several synthetic resin layers is finally pressed in a press under pressure and temperature influence, as in EP 1 454 763 B1 to which reference is made in its entirety. Subsequently, the still large-format now coated wood-based panel is divided into individual panels. After the division into individual panels connecting means in the form of a spring and a groove with integrated locking means are attached to the side surfaces, so that two panels by means of a so-called "click-connection" connected to each other and can be locked to each other in the vertical and horizontal directions. In order to increase the realistic impression of a laminate panel, it is known to impress on the compression of the layer structure in the top of a corresponding structure to the decor (embossed-in-register). The laminate panel is thus not only visually but also haptically, for example, a real wood panel further aligned.

Alternatively, the coating can also be carried out with lacquer layers, which is then cured by the use of high-energy radiation, for example electron and UV radiation. Also in this case, the large-sized coated carrier plate is only after complete curing the applied layers divided into panels.

In the market of laminate panels, especially the floor panels, a demand for more and more different decor variants can be observed. Not only are new wood replicas in demand, but also increasingly tile and stone decors, as well as fantasy decors in various forms. The conversion of a large-scale production plant for laminate panels on a new decor, however, is relatively cumbersome, time-consuming and therefore costly. In addition, for example, in the event that the decor is placed in the form of a printed decor paper on the wood material core, decorative papers with different decors must be stored. This requires a lot of storage space and also binds unnecessarily much capital due to the large amount of decor papers to be kept.

If the decor is printed, for example via pressure rollers directly on the wood-based panel, a separate set of rollers must be kept for each decor, which are costly especially in the purchase. If a structure is to be embossed in the top, in addition the press plates or press plates must be costly engraved. In addition, the replacement of such press plates or press plates claimed time in which the production plant is, whereby the cost of manufacturing laminate panels increase.

For the above reasons, it makes only economic sense to produce relatively large numbers of laminate panels with a once selected decor before panels are produced with a different decor.

In addition to the demand for more and more different decor variants, however, an increasing reduction of the demanded order sizes can be observed. However, if too small quantities of laminate panels with a certain decor are in demand, they can not be produced economically become. As a result, individual orders must be "collected" from the retailer or wholesaler, which results in long delivery times for the end customer, which the latter does not accept, especially in the do-it-yourself sector. Part of the demand must therefore remain unsatisfied.

From the WO 2010/055429 A2 a method for producing a panel is known in which a primer is first applied to the top of a large-sized wood-based panel. The so-primed wood-based panel is optionally pressed and then divided into individual panels. Only then are the individual panels printed with the desired decor.

The disadvantage is that although the production system itself can be made smaller and more compact by the method described in the cited document, since not the large-format wood-based panels, but smaller panels must be printed, usually no faster delivery times small lot sizes can be achieved with individual decors , If a customer orders a small amount of panels with a desired decor, for example from a panel dealer, he will collect the incoming orders until he orders a sufficient number of panels from the panel manufacturer. This is necessary in order to keep transport costs within acceptable limits, since laminate panels are transported, for example, by large trucks, which, in order to be able to work economically, must be utilized to a certain extent. By in the WO 2010/055429 A2 Although the economy of the manufacturing process can be increased by the use of smaller plants, flexibility is not achieved, in particular with regard to the rapid delivery of small and smallest batches with individual decors.

The problem to be solved is first of all that it is the current one The way in which the laminate panels required by the end customer are manufactured is, for economic reasons, not possible to satisfy even unusual customer requests within a reasonable delivery time, unless a minimum lot size is required, and even if the minimum lot size has been reached (for example, in Object area, so the equipment of large offices or hotels) a longer delivery time must be taken into account, because of course the system at the panel manufacturer must first be converted accordingly, which is not possible even in the worst order situation within a few hours or days.

This problem can be solved by interrupting the chain of the manufacturing process and allowing the dealer, who receives the decoration request of the end customer, to apply the decoration himself to the panels. However, the dealer can not handle and divide wood-based panels in dimensions of several meters.

1. a) Auspacken eines Paneels mit einem Kern aus Holzwerkstoff aus einer transportsicheren Verpackung, wobei auf einer Oberseite des Kerns eine Grundierung in Form wenigstens einer mit dem Kern verpressten Kunstharzschicht und gegebenenfalls ein Primer sowie auf einer der Oberseite des Kerns gegenüberliegenden Unterseite des Kerns eine Beschichtung angeordnet ist und an sich gegenüberliegenden Seitenflächen Verbindungs- und Verriegelungsmittel angebracht sind,
2. b) Aufbringen einer Dekorschicht mit einem Dekor auf die Grundierung oder den Primer,
3. c) Aufbringen wenigstens einer Nutzschicht auf die Dekorschicht.

The refining of a panel can be carried out at the merchant as follows:

1. a) unpacking a panel with a core of wood-based material from a transport-safe packaging, wherein disposed on a top of the core a primer in the form of at least one pressed with the core resin layer and optionally a primer and on a side opposite the top of the core bottom of the core a coating is and on opposite side surfaces connecting and locking means are attached,
2. b) applying a decorative layer with a decor to the primer or the primer,
3. c) applying at least one wear layer to the decorative layer.

The decorative layer is advantageously printed directly on the primer or the primer. Alternatively, a decor paper can be printed with a decor and placed as a decorative layer on the primer or primer. The at least one wear layer is advantageously made of a synthetic resin and is cured after application by compression under the influence of pressure and temperature. In particular, a structure can be introduced into the at least one wear layer.

Alternatively, the at least one wear layer can also consist of a lacquer which is cured after application by means of electron or UV radiation. By imprinting a structure-forming lacquer, a structure can be introduced into the at least one wear layer. Alternatively, the course of the paint disturbing means can be printed and thereby structure-forming depressions and / or increases are generated.

• Bereitstellen der wenigstens einen Nutzschicht auf einem Trägermedium,
• Aufdrucken der Dekorschicht auf die wenigstens eine Nutzschicht,
• Auflegen des Schichtaufbaus aus dem Trägermedium, der wenigstens einen Nutzschicht und Dekorschicht auf die Grundierung oder den Primer, sodass die Dekorschicht auf der Grundierung oder dem Primer angeordnet wird und
• Entfernen des Trägermediums.

It has proven to be particularly advantageous if the application of the decorative layer and the at least one wear layer is effected by the following steps:

• Providing the at least one wear layer on a carrier medium,
• Printing the decorative layer on the at least one wear layer,
• Laying the layer structure of the support medium, the at least one wear layer and decorative layer on the primer or the primer, so that the decorative layer on the primer or the primer is arranged and
• Remove the carrier medium.

Subsequently, a structure can be embossed into the at least one wear layer. The structure which is introduced into the at least one wear layer advantageously corresponds to the decoration of the decorative layer in order to improve the natural impression of the imitated material. Before applying the decorative layer, the panel is advantageously cleaned.

The invention is based on the object to provide a device with which the finishing of a panel in the manner described above can be done at the dealer.

1. a) einem Druckwerk zum Aufdrucken eines Dekors auf die Grundierung oder die Primerschicht,
2. b) einer elektronischen Datenverarbeitungseinrichtung mit einer Eingabeeinrichtung zum Eingeben einer Auswahl eines in Form von elektronischen Daten in einem Datenspeicher hinterlegten Dekors aus einer Mehrzahl zur Verfügung stehender Dekore durch einen Benutzer,
3. c) einer elektrischen Steuerung, die eingerichtet ist, um das ausgewählte Dekor aus einem Datenspeicher auszulesen und das Druckwerk so anzusteuern, dass das ausgewählte Dekor gedruckt wird.

To solve the problem, the device described above is characterized by the following features:

1. a) a printing unit for printing a decoration on the primer or the primer layer,
2. b) an electronic data processing device having an input device for inputting by user a selection of a decoration of a plurality of decors available in the form of electronic data in a data memory,
3. c) an electrical controller arranged to read the selected decor from a data store and to drive the print engine to print the selected decor.

The printing unit is preferably a digital printer. The printing unit may be preceded by a cleaning device.

If the electronic data processing device comprises a camera, a suitable decoration which a customer has brought, for example, photographed and read into the electronic data processing device become.

If a scanner is provided, the pattern of an individual decoration can be read into the data processing device.

The method is based on the idea to make the production of laminate panels, in particular for use as wall, ceiling and floor coverings more flexible, easier and cheaper. For this purpose, it is provided that in the context of large-scale production only primed panels are produced as semi-finished products. These have a core of wood-based material, which may be formed for example as OSB, MDF or HDF. This is coated with a primer, which is pressed with the core of the wood-based panel. This results in an easily printable surface that has the required properties to ensure an excellent print image during subsequent printing. The primer in the form of a synthetic resin layer can be applied in various forms to the core of wood-based material.

The primed panels are finally packed safe for transport. Prior to this, quality control can be carried out to ensure the highest possible quality of the primed panels.

Since the laminate manufacturer produces only primed panels to which no decorative layer has to be applied, the laminate manufacturer reduces both the storage costs and the material costs. There is no need to stock decor papers in different decors, or to provide embossing or embossing plates to make panels with different decors. This significantly reduces both the required storage space and the tied capital. In addition, no changeover times, as all panels have the same primer. This allows the production plant to work more economically and the production costs will be further reduced.

In order to ensure a particularly good printability of the panels produced in this way, the primer is in particular dyed. In particular, several colors are possible, examples being white or beige. In this case, for example, dyed papers are used as the printing base, whose color corresponds to the brightest shade in the decor to be printed. Is, as here, the applied decorative yet unknown, therefore, a white or at least very light primer is advantageous. However, any other color is also conceivable as a primer. In order to achieve special effects in the subsequent printing of such pre-primed panels, a structure can already be introduced into the primer. This is advantageously done when pressing the layer structure, in particular by embossing plates or embossing rollers used.

However, pre-primed panels produced in this way generally have a very smooth surface. In particular, the surface is homogeneous and, if the primer is colored, good coverage. This is very important in combination with a very low defect frequency due to surface defects or dirt particles, in particular for digital printing in which the pre-primed panel is printed directly by means of a digital printer. A colored wood-based panel can at least partially take over the function of a primer.

Due to the very low surface roughness of the top of the panel, for example, less than 20 microns, more preferably even less than 10 microns, a very good print image is achieved during subsequent printing. The test standard for surface roughness is predominantly ISO 4287-1. When the wood-based panel or primer is colored, the color advantageously has a brightness parameter L greater than 92, a red-green value A between -5 and +5, preferably between -2 and +2 and a Yellow-blue value B lies between -15 and +15, preferably between -8 and +8. The values given describe colors in the CIELAB color space. The normative basis of this color space is DIN 6174. The color of the primer or the dyed wood-based panel should correspond to the brightest shade in the decor to be applied. If this, as in the present case, is not yet known, a particularly bright, in particular white, surface color naturally offers itself.

The primed panels are then transported to a further processing plant. This may, for example, be a franchise operation associated with the laminate manufacturer, a hardware store, an interior decorator, a retailer or a floor publisher.

In this, the pre-primed panels are unpacked from the transport-safe packaging. Subsequently, a decorative layer is applied with a decor according to direct customer request to the primer or primer and covered by at least one wear layer.

The application of the decorative layer on the primer or the primer can be done in different ways.

In particular, the decorative layer can be printed directly onto the primer or the primer. In this case, the pre-primed panel passes through a printing unit, which is advantageously a digital printer. This makes it possible, in particular different designs quickly and easily to print successively on different panels without having to convert the printing unit to the new decor. The fact that only individual panels must be printed and not, as usual in the art, whole large-size wood-based panels, the printing unit can be made small and compact and thus space and cost. Alternatively, a decorative paper that can be kept in the form of large roles, printed with a decor be and then laminated as a decorative layer on the primer or primer.

In both cases, the decorative layer should be covered by at least one wear layer. The number and type of applied wear layers depends heavily on the intended location of the so decorated panels. Especially with wall and ceiling panels, it is often sufficient if the at least one wear layer covers the decorative layer wipe-resistant. However, if the printed panels are used as a floor panel, they are exposed to a significantly higher load. In this case, in particular a plurality of wear layers can be applied, to which additives are added which increase an abrasion and / or scratch resistance of the upper side of the then finished panels.

The at least one wear layer can consist of a synthetic resin and be cured after application by compression under the influence of pressure and temperature. During the pressing, a structure which corresponds in particular to the decoration of the decorative layer can also be embossed into the at least one wear layer so as, for example, to make the natural appearance of a real wood decoration more realistic.

Alternatively, the at least one wear layer may also be in the form of at least one lacquer layer, which then hardens using high-energy radiation, for example electron or UV radiation. In this case, it is also possible to apply a structure-forming lacquer over which a structure can be introduced into the at least one wear layer during curing.

During curing by high-energy radiation and by pressing in particular a walk-on surface of the panel can be ensured. This happens especially when the panel is to be used as a floor panel.

In all cases mentioned so far, the decorative layer must be covered with at least one layer of a synthetic resin or a lacquer and then cured in further processing, for example in a hardware store. For this purpose, a relatively high expenditure on equipment is necessary, which in addition to an increased space requirement also attracts relatively high investment costs. In addition, it may be necessary to use specialized personnel for the operation of a device for carrying out the process steps required in the further processing operation, in particular in the case of coating with synthetic resin or lacquer.

In a particularly simple manner, therefore, the decorative layer and the at least one wear layer can be applied to the pre-primed panel with the following method steps. On a carrier medium, for example a film, the at least one wear layer is provided. If several layers of wear are necessary, they are in unverkehrter order on the carrier medium. The wear layer, which is to form the top of the finished panel, is thus located directly on the support medium and is covered by the wear layers that lie beneath it in the finished panel. In further processing operation, different layer structures of these at least one wear layer are held on the carrier medium. The wear layer, which is intended to cover the decorative layer in the finished panel, is therefore at the very top in the layer structure on the carrier medium. This is now printed with the decor to be applied to the panel. Subsequently, the entire layer structure is placed on the primer or the primer, that now the decoration rests directly on the primer or the primer and is covered by the at least one wear layer. At the very top of the layer structure is now the carrier medium, for example the carrier foil. This layer structure is now pressed with the pre-primed panel. For this it is sufficient if pressure is exerted on the layer structure. Since the at least one wear layer, which is located on the support medium already is fully cured, an effect under elevated temperature influence is unnecessary.

Subsequently, the carrier medium is stripped off and the decorative layer and the at least one wear layer remain on the primer or the primer. In this way it is possible to refine the primed panel without applying liquid resins and paints that still have to be cured. This significantly reduces both the expenditure on equipment and the investment volume. In the at least one wear layer, a structure which in particular corresponds to the decoration of the decorative layer can also be embossed in this embodiment during the compression of the layer structure.

The inventive device for finishing a panel according to a method just described comprises a printing unit for printing the decoration on the primer or the primer, the decorative paper or coated with the at least one wear layer carrier medium in basically any desired color and grain, an input device with which a selection of a decor deposited as electronic data in a data store can be entered, and an electrical controller configured to read the selected decor from the data store and to drive the print engine to print the selected decor becomes.

For the customer particularly comfortable this device also includes a display device via which the available decors are displayed to the user.

In concrete terms, such a process can take place, for example, in a hardware store as follows.

A customer who needs panels for a specific room size will initially receive the information, what number of panels it needs. On a display device of a device, with which the primed panel can be refined as described above, he can look at various decors that are available for selection. These decors are stored in the form of electronic data in a data memory within the device. Alternatively, the device could for example also have a drive, for example for a CD, DVD or the like. The customer can then also bring a corresponding disk itself, are stored on the decors in a predetermined data format. In this way it is possible for the customer to get his own individual décor printed on panels.

After the customer has selected a decor, he enters this selection via the input device. In addition, the customer can choose how many panels to be printed with the selected decor and what he wants to use these panels for. Depending on the intended purpose, different wear layers are applied to the panel.

Within the device, the desired decoration is then applied to a pre-primed profiled panel and covered with the combination of useful layers found necessary. Once these are cured, if necessary, the customer can receive and use the panels printed with their individual décor.

Should he notice that he has not enough panels printed or it may be necessary, for example, to replace individual worn over time panels, it is always possible to rearrange even on a device described individual panels.

As a result, the flexibility in the production of laminate panels is significantly increased and it is even small order quantities with different decors economically feasible to produce.

Figur 1-

eine schematische Darstellung eines Ausführungsbeispiels des Verfahrens zum Herstellen grundierter Paneele,

Figur 2-

einen Querschnitt durch ein gemäß dem Verfahren nach Figur 1 hergestellten Paneel mit einem vergrößerten Ausschnitt daraus, und

Figur 3-

eine schematische Darstellung eines Ausführungsbeispiels des Verfahrens zum Veredeln eines Paneels, wie es in einem weiterverarbeitenden Betrieb durchgeführt wird.

With the help of a drawing, the described method is explained in more detail below. It shows:

Figure 1-

a schematic representation of an embodiment of the method for producing primed panels,

FIG. 2

a cross section through a according to the method according to FIG. 1 manufactured panel with an enlarged section of it, and

Figure 3-

a schematic representation of an embodiment of the method for refining a panel, as it is carried out in a further processing operation.

FIG. 1 shows the schematic representation of a method for producing a primed panel as a semifinished product, as can be performed at the laminate manufacturer. The processing direction is indicated by arrows. The manufacturing process begins in FIG. 1 bottom left.

The process begins with a large-format wood-based panel 1. The wood-based panel 1 is first supplied to a pretreatment device 2, in which the large-sized wood-based panel 1 is prepared for carrying out the method. Within this pretreatment device 2, for example, an upper side of the wood-based material panel 1 can be ground, or some other smoothing of the surface can take place. The wood-based panel 1 is prepared so that a layer of material can be applied to the top. For this purpose, the wood-based panel 1 in the pretreatment device 2, for example, additionally cleaned and / or heated. In addition, a quality assurance can take place to ensure that the surface of the wood-based panel 1 is suitable for carrying out the method.

After the wood-based panel 1 has been prepared in the pre-treatment device 2, it is supplied to a primer 4. In the primer 4, a primer in the form of a synthetic resin layer is applied to the top of the wood-based panel 1. This can be done, for example, by applying a liquid synthetic resin layer or in the form of a resin-impregnated paper. Alternatively, for example, a film which is coated in particular with a synthetic resin, are glued to the top of the wood-based panel 1. For this purpose, a resin containing resin can be used.

After the wood-based panel 1 has passed through the primer 4, it is in in FIG. 1 shown embodiment of a drying device 6 supplied. Here, if appropriate, the primer applied in the primer 4 on the upper side of the wood-based panel 1 is dried in the form of a synthetic resin layer.

Subsequently, the coated wood-based panel 1 passes through in FIG. 1 a short-cycle press 8, in which the wood-based panel 1 is pressed with the applied in the primer 4 primer in the form of a synthetic resin layer under pressure and temperature influence. Of course, other forms of a press, such as a belt press, conceivable. In particular, if in the primer 4, the primer in the form of a synthetic resin layer, for example by means of a film already fully cured, is optionally also a pressing only under pressure without increased temperature sufficient.

The pressed in the short-cycle press 8 primed wood-based panels 1 then pass through a cutting device 10, in which the large-sized wood-based panel 1 is divided into smaller panels 12. On the side edges of the panels 12 profiles are then worked, the one Connecting two identical panels 12 allow each other. In this case, longitudinal profiles are first milled out of the side surfaces of the panels 12 in a first milling device 14. This makes it possible to connect two identical panels 12 together along their longer side surfaces.

Subsequently, the panels 12 pass through a second milling device 16, in which also the short side surfaces are provided with a profile, in this case a transverse profile. Thus, identical panels 12 are connected to each other along their short side edges.

Subsequently, the primed and provided with connecting means panels pass through a quality assurance 18, before they are packaged safe for transport in a packing station 20.

When pressing the coated with the primer wood panel in a short-cycle press 8 or in another pressing device, in particular a structure can be embossed in the primer. Additionally or alternatively, a relief in the large-sized wood-based panel 1 may be provided. In order to be able to emboss a relief in the wood-based panel 1, in particular the wood-based panel 1 can be sprayed with water before the application of the primer in the primer 4. An exemplary method is in DE 10 2008 008 240 been described.

FIG. 2 shows a section along the line AA FIG. 1 by a pre-primed panel 12, as well as an enlarged section thereof. The panel 12 comprises a core 22 to which a primer 24 has been applied. The top of the core 22 shows a relief 26 in the form of an uneven surface of the core 22. In the primer 24, a structure 28 is impressed, which has significantly finer elements, as the imprinted in the core 22 relief 26th

FIG. 3 shows the schematic representation of a method for finishing a panel, as it can be performed in a further processing operation, for example a franchisee associated with the laminate manufacturer, a hardware store or the like. The processing direction is indicated by arrows. The processing begins in FIG. 3 bottom left.

The finished primed panels 102 are delivered in a transport-safe packaging 104 coming from the laminate manufacturer in further processing operation. In a first method step, the panels 102 are removed from this transport-safe packaging 104. Im in FIG. 3 In the exemplary embodiment of the method shown, the panels 102 are subsequently fed to a cleaning device 106, in which the surface of the panels 102 is cleaned of possibly adhering dirt and dust and thus prepared for the application of the decorative layer. It is also conceivable that the panels 102 have been suitably cleaned in the operation of the laminate manufacturer for later printing. These may then have been inserted into the transport-safe packaging 104 in a cleaned manner. For example, by airtight welding of the transport pack 104 in a film can be ruled out that the panels 102 must then be cleaned again before they are printed.

After the panels 102 have passed through the cleaning device 106, if necessary, they are aligned on an acceleration path 108 and spaced apart from one another to the desired distance. The panels 102 are then fed to a printing unit 110. Here, the surface of the panel 102 is printed with the decorative layer to be applied. For this, the printing unit 110 in the in FIG. 3 shown embodiment, three printheads 112. Depending on the desired decor, the printing unit 110 may also have more or fewer printheads 112. Connected to the printing unit 110 is an electronic data processing device 114. This has a in FIG. 3 not shown input device through which the user of a device for performing the method can select the desired decor. For this purpose, the electronic data processing device 114 has a display device 116 via which the available decors, which are deposited, for example, on an electronic storage medium, are displayed to the user. From this selection, the user can select the decor he wishes to have printed on his panels.

Im in FIG. 3 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the electronic data processing device 114 additionally has a scanner 118. If a user of the device for refining the panel 102 brings an individual décor, for example in the form of a paper-like printout, the pattern can be read into the electronic data processing device 114 via the scanner 118 and applied via the printheads 112 of the printing unit 110 to the top of the panel. The user is thus no longer limited to the pattern selection stored in the electronic data processing device 114.

In addition, the electronic data processing device 114 has in FIG. 3 By way of this camera 120, it is possible, for example, to photograph decors of surfaces which the customer has brought with him, but which can not be scanned, and thus read them into the electronic data processing device. Such decors can also be applied to the top side of the panel 102 via the print heads 112 of the printing unit 110. It can also be provided, for example, a CD-ROM drive, via which the customer can read a stored in a defined format on a CD-ROM decor in the data processing device 114.

In order for the panels 102 to remain precisely aligned by the printheads 112 during application of the decor, they become in the printing unit 110 by guide elements 122 led.

In order to ensure the best possible result, the decor proposals stored in the data memory of the electronic data processing device 114 are optimized for the possible formats of the panels 102 to be printed. Individual decors of a user of the described device, which have been read into the electronic data processing device 114 via the scanner 118, the drive or the camera 120, for example, can be adapted to the panel formats. The decoration selection stored in the data memory of the electronic data processing device 114 can in particular be updated online.

After the upper side of the panels 102 has been printed with a décor, the panels 102 leave the printing unit 110 and are fed to a coating device 124. Im in FIG. 3 illustrated embodiment, these three application devices 126, via each of which a wear layer can be applied to the top of the panel. The applicators 126 are controlled by a second electronic data processing device 128. It has a mixing program that controls the composition of the individual wear layers. In this case, the second electronic data processing device 128 can control various storage containers 130 and mix their contents with the respective desired utility layer. In one of these reservoir 130 is the base material of each individual wear layer, which may be, for example, a synthetic resin or a paint. The further reservoirs 130 include, for example, hardener, corundum to increase the abrasion resistance of the finished coated panel and other additives that are selected depending on the intended use of the then finished panel.

As in the printing unit 110, various panel formats can also be processed in the coating apparatus 124. Also within the coating device 124, the panels 102 to be coated are guided over guide elements 122. A possible layer structure consists of several layers of radiation-curable lacquer. In this case, for example, two layers of an antiabrasive UV basecoat are applied with a roller system in an application amount of, for example, 35 g / m ² onto the top surface of the panel 102 to be coated. Each applicator 126 is designed in the form of a roller system. After the two layers of the antiabrasive basecoat have been applied, two further layers of a UV abrasive base can also be applied, each with an applicator 126, which is designed as a roller system. The application amount here is, for example, 15 g / m ² per abrasive base layer. Finally, via a further application device 126, a layer of a UV topcoat is applied in an application rate of, for example, 35 g / m ² . Optionally, prior to the application of each lacquer layer, the previously applied lacquer layer is cured by means of UV or electron beams. In the FIG. 3 In the embodiment shown, the various wear layers, which may in particular also consist of a synthetic resin, are applied directly one after the other without drying the wear layer previously applied by an application device 126.

An applicator 126 in the form of rollers can be operated both in the same and in the opposite direction. In order to coat as many panels 102 as possible in a given time, high feed rates of such applicators 126 are preferred. In particular, feed speeds of between 10 m / min and 30 m / min are suitable.

If paint layers are applied as wear layers by the application devices 126 in the coating device 124, these application devices 126 can also be in the form of an injection or spray painting device, a digital print head, a casting head or a vacuum be. Abrasion-resistant particles, for example corundum, or other additives may be present in each applied layer. These depend on the later use of the then finished panel.

After the panels 102 have left the coating device 124, they are guided to a first curing device 132. Im in FIG. 3 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the wear layers applied in the coating device 124, which may for example be in the form of a lacquer, are only gelatinized by high-energy rays, for example electrons or UV rays. Subsequently, in a stamping device 134, a structure is embossed in the upper side of the coated panel, that is to say the useful layers. This structure corresponds in particular to the selected decor of the decorative layer applied in the printing unit 110.

The embossing of the structure can be done, for example, by means of a structured roller, a structured belt or a structure-regulating paper or a structure-forming film.

Alternatively, an overlay paper sheet can be placed and then pressed in a short-cycle press under the action of pressure and heat. In this case, structures are provided in particular in the press plates, which impress during pressing into the top of the panel 102.

In particular, when using paints as wear layers and a structure-forming amount of paint can be applied by means of a digitally controlled printhead, for example. Alternatively, a means is conceivable that disturbs the course of the paint. This means can also be applied using a digitally controlled printhead. By using such a printhead, it is possible to apply the agent or the lacquer only at certain points of the surface of the panel 102 and so to create structure-forming depressions and elevations. Should the in If the top-embossed structure corresponds to decor of the decorative layer, then the panel 102 must be aligned prior to passing through the embossing device 134. Im in FIG. 3 In the illustrated embodiment, after passing through the embossing device 134, the panel 102 passes through a second curing device 136. Here, the optionally-gelled wear layers are completely cured so that a surface suitable for the respectively selected use of the panel 102 is produced.

Subsequently, the panels 102 pass through a quality assurance 138, possibly a label 140 or the like, if necessary, in addition also a cleaning device and are finally packed and can be taken by the customer.

Particularly advantageously, the electronic data processing device 114 is coupled to the second electronic data processing device 128. A customer will be given in the processing operation then for example by means of a program different choices. He can choose, for example, whether the panel 102 private or commercial, to be used in the dry or wet area, with references to various commercial use classes are given. In addition, the customer can decide whether the panel to be coated 102 will later be a floor, wall or ceiling panel. This information is important for the wear layers to be applied in the coating device 124. In a device for refining a panel, the useful layers with the required additives and additives are then automatically applied to achieve a certain degree of wear, for example AC3 according to DIN EN 13329. Painting and curing take place automatically.

The customer can also choose the format of the panel and the thickness of the support plate as well as the desired decor and possibly a structure to be impressed. By means of these specifications from the customer side, both the printing unit 110 and the coating device 124 can be set to the thickness and the format of the panels 102 to be coated.

Further options for the customer include, for example, the choice of a specific packaging. Thus, the panels can only be placed in a cardboard box or by means of a film, such as a shrink film, also protected against splashing water. In addition, the customer can decide, for example, whether he would like to take the finished panels with him or pick them up at a later time or whether they should be delivered by a third-party company. An installation option by a specialist company is also conceivable. In addition, the customer may, for an additional charge, select warranty and warranty options and, if necessary, decide whether to buy or rent the panels.

Within a plant for refining a panel according to the described method, the coating and the curing of the paint layers can be done automatically. Since the lacquers or resin layers used, which are applied as useful layers, can be optimized for this application, in particular with regard to their viscosity, a smooth application without increased or minimum lacquer applications at the beginning and at the end of the panels 102 to be coated can be ensured. In order to protect the connecting and locking elements already formed on the panels 102, masks may be used which prevent soiling or contamination of these connecting and locking elements. In particular, when curing lacquer layers applied by the adjustment of the radiation intensity, the adhesion of the individual layers to each other and the final curing can be realized and guaranteed. For multiple jobs, the corresponding part of the installation, ie coating device 124 and first curing device 132 and second curing device 136, can be run through multiple times.

For optimal use of such a system several orders can be produced directly one after the other. After an order has been completed, a fully automatic cleaning, in particular of the application devices 126 can be carried out in order to be able to provide a clean installation for the following order.

The method described has a number of advantages. After completion of the surface, the customer can immediately take the finished product in the desired quantity and quality. This solves in particular the problem of small quantities for the laminate panel manufacturer since he only has to manufacture one type of panel, namely pre-primed and structured panels, if necessary in different dimensions. Since the connecting and locking means are milled in this process on pre-primed panels or worked in any other form, the resulting milling waste is reduced in particular by the fact that on the pre-primed panels no decorative paper or overlay paper is applied. As a result, the production costs are significantly reduced. In addition, the described method significantly reduces transport damage or transmission errors in orders, because the customer can stand directly in front of the device and enters his wishes. A transfer of an order to a laminate manufacturer is no longer necessary.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

Wood panel

2

pretreatment equipment

4

priming device

6

drying device

8th

Short-cycle press

10

trimming

12

paneling

14

first milling device

16

second milling device

18

quality control

20

packing station

22

core

24

primer

26

relief

28

structure

102

paneling

104

transport safe packaging

106

cleaning device

108

acceleration path

110

printing unit

112

printhead

114

electronic data processing device

116

display

118

scanner

120

camera

122

guide element

124

coater

126

applicator

128

second electronic data processing device

130

reservoir

132

first curing device

134

embosser

136

second curing device

138

quality control

140

labeling

Claims (15)

Apparatus for refining a panel (102) having a core of wood-based material having on one top a primer in the form of at least one synthetic resin layer pressed with the core and optionally a primer layer and a coating on a bottom opposite the top, having: a) a printing unit (110) for printing a decoration on the primer or the primer layer, b) an electronic data processing device (114) having an input device for inputting by a user a selection of a decoration deposited in the form of electronic data in a data memory from a plurality of available decors, c) an electrical controller arranged to read the selected decor from a data store and to drive the print engine (110) to print the selected decor. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by a display device (116) via which the available decors can be displayed to the user. Apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the Print engine (110) is a digital printer. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the printing unit (110) is preceded by a cleaning device (106). Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the electronic data processing device (114) comprises a camera (120). Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by a CD-ROM drive. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by a scanner (118). Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the printing unit (110) is arranged downstream of a coating device (124). Apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that the coating device (124) has three application devices (126). Apparatus according to claim 9, characterized by a second data processing device (128) for controlling the applicator devices (126). Apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that each applicator device (126) is designed in the form of a roller system. Apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that each application device (126) is designed as injection or spray painting. Apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that the coating device (124) is arranged downstream of a curing device (132). Apparatus according to claim 13, characterized in that the coating device (124) is arranged downstream of a stamping device (134). Apparatus according to claim 14, characterized in that the embossing device (134) comprises a structured roller, a structured band, a structure-generating paper or a structure-forming film.

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