EP2739803A1

EP2739803A1 - Covering of mechanically interconnectable panels, method for producing such panels and laying method

Info

Publication number: EP2739803A1
Application number: EP12750990.9A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Guido Schulte
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2011-08-01
Filing date: 2012-07-24
Publication date: 2014-06-11
Anticipated expiration: 2032-07-24
Also published as: DE102011052335A8; WO2013017128A1; EP2739803B1; PL2739803T3; RU2560032C1; DE102011052335A1; DE102011052335B4

Abstract

Covering of mechanically interconnectable panels (1a, 2a) which can be mechanically locked to one another at their end faces (6, 9) via locking elements (3a), comprising the following features: an undercut retaining groove (3a) for accommodating a locking element (5a) extending in the longitudinal direction of the retaining groove (3a) is situated at an end face (6) of a first panel (1a); the locking element (5a) projects with a plurality of spaced-apart tongues (7a) from the end face (6) so as to engage in pockets (8) of an undercut locking groove (4a) in the opposite end face (9) of an adjacent panel (2a); the pockets (8) are open towards an underside (11) and towards the end face (9) of the adjacent panel (2a); the locking element (5a) is intended, by sliding one end of the locking element (5a) into the retaining groove (3a), to be at least partially displaced from the pockets (8) in the direction of the locking groove (4a) in order to secure the panels (1a, 2a) against a tensile force acting in the direction of the laying plane (V) of the panels (1a, 2a).

Description

The invention relates to a covering of mechanically interconnectable panels according to claims 1 and 2 and a method for producing such Paneeie according to the Merkmaien of claim 18 and a laying method according to claim 18th

It counts by WO 2008/017301 A2 a Bodenbeiag consisting of a variety of bendable in the composite Elemenipiatten to the prior art, the element panels have at their top sides and on their longitudinal sides Verriegeiungsleisten which in the mounting position with adjacent in a covering Elemenipiatten together Enter engagement, in the head sides grooves are provided, wherein the grooves of two abutting head sides aligned and form a locking channel for receiving a head spring. The head spring is pre-assembled in one of the grooves. The head feather stands over an end facing the longitudinal side of the eggplate the groove in front and is by displacement of the protruding end of the head spring into the groove partially veriagerbar of the one groove in the corresponding groove of the adjacent Eiementpiatte. These so-called side-push systems have proven themselves extremely well in practice. The head spring fulfills the function of aligning the element plates in height to each other. The tensile forces acting in the laying plane are transmitted via the locking strips. The Verriegeiungsieiste of a panel is so far ahead of the frontal decorative edge. that they can be engaged by the Verriegeiungsieiste the other panel. As a result, the Verschniitanteil in the end-side profiling of the element plates is relatively high.

The invention has for its object to provide a way to minimize the Verschniitanteil at the frontal Profüierung in the field of side-push locking while maintaining the side-squeeze system.

This object is achieved in a covering with the features of claim 1 and, alternatively, in a covering with the features of claim 2. A method for producing such a covering is the subject of patent claim 18.

The covering according to the invention consists of panels which can be connected to one another mechanically and which can be mechanically interlocked with one another on their end faces (longitudinal sides or head sides) via locking elements. The covering has the following features: a) On an end face of a first panel there is an undercut retaining groove, for receiving a locking element extending in the longitudinal direction of the retaining groove; b) the locking member protrudes with a plurality of mutually spaced tongues from the end face to engage in pockets of an undercut locking groove in the opposite end face of an adjacent panel; c) the pockets are open to a bottom and to the face of the adjacent panel; d) The locking element is intended to be displaced by moving one end of the locking element into the retaining groove, at least partially out of the pockets in the direction of the locking groove, in order to secure the panels against a pulling force acting in the direction of the laying plane of the panels.

The covering according to the invention therefore provides a locking element which, according to the side-push system, by locking an end protruding from the retaining groove into the retaining groove when engaged with the adjacent panel, leads to locking of the two panels. According to the invention, this side-push system is combined with a bayonet system. This has the advantage that not only a mutual alignment of the panels is achieved in terms of their altitude by the locking elements, but also that on the Vernegelungseiemente a tensile force can be transmitted. This in turn makes it possible to dispense with the so-called locking strips, as described in WO 2008/017301 A2, thereby making it possible to minimize the amount of waste significantly. In contrast to the prior art now is the locking element and not the locking bar in the laying plane farthest on the upper side Dekorkante projecting element of a panel, however, since the Verriegeiungselement is used as a separate component in the holding, is the projecting beyond the decorative edge area minimal at the front. Therefore, the blend is significantly reduced.

An end face in the sense of the invention designates the edge sides of a panel, which lie between the top and bottom of the panel. The front side refers in the context of the invention representative head and long sides in rectangular panels. However, the invention is not limited to any particular panel shape. In principle, the panels may also have, for example, a square shape. Also in terms of their dimension is the ... 4 .. inventive Beiag not set to specific dimensions of the individual panels. It can be connected to each other with the locking system according to the invention thus also large-scale plates, each covering an area of at least one square meter, for example, have an edge length of 1, 000 x 1, 000 mm.

In an alternative embodiment according to claim 2, the covering has the following features; a) On one end face (longitudinal side or head side) of a first panel is a locking element having a plurality of mutually spaced tongues facing in the direction of the adjacent second panel; b) the locking element protrudes from the front side to engage in a Vernegelungsnut in the opposite end face of the adjacent panel; c) The Vernegelungsnut is partially bounded by a separate locking body, which is held on the second panel and having open to a bottom and the front side of the adjacent panel recesses; d) The area between the recesses serves as a locking portion, which is intended by engaging the locking body in the direction of Vernegelungsnut to engage behind the tongues to secure the panels against acting in the direction of the Veriegeebene the panels traction.

In this variant, it is provided that the locking element also serves to lock, but is not even moved in the direction of the retaining. It is stationary or mounted. The lock is achieved by a separate locking body, which is held on the second panel. This lock body is comb-like configured and therefore has to Bottom and the front of the second panel open recesses. During assembly, the second panel is placed or folded with the separate locking bodies from above immediately adjacent to the front side of the first panel, so that the mutually spaced tongues of the locking element can engage in the recesses. The tongues now engage in the locking groove above the recesses of the locking body, Then the locking body is displaced in the direction of the locking groove, so that the tongues are engaged behind by the locking body, in this way, the tongues are held so that they no longer in the direction of the laying plane can be pulled out of the panels. It is transmitted in the direction of the laying plane of the panels acting tensile force. The tongues fulfill a double function: on the one hand the transmission of a tensile force and on the other hand the horizontal alignment in the laying plane,

In the case of the covering according to the invention, it is also possible not only to deposit the panel to be laid from above directly next to the first panel or to fold it down. Rather, it is also possible to bring the second panel in connection with the first panel in that the second panel is already in the laying plane and then only horizontally, that is shifted in the Veriegeebene towards the front side of the already laid panel , If these are head sides of two panels, while the longitudinal sides of the respective panels are already engaged with a laid row of panels, so that the second panel can no longer be raised vertically due to engagement with the first row of panels, the protruding tongues slightly downwards Press before the tongues engage in the locking groove. The tongues preferably have a sufficient elasticity for this purpose. In addition, a crimping groove may be formed on a underside of the tongues facing the underside of the panels. This makes it possible that the tongues without being subject to breakage or excessive loads, feathers slightly downwards and thus can escape the undercut locking groove downwards. It may be necessary, in such head-side connections, to strike the second panel to be laid with light hammer blows into the first panel until the tongue is in the correct position in the locking groove. Subsequently, the locking takes place according to the bayonet principle by shifting the locking element.

A further advantage of the covering according to the invention is that, due to the omission of the projections designated as locking strips in WO 2008/017301 A2, end-face regions of the panels are available which can be used either for additional connecting functions or also transfer functions. An additional connection function can be, for example, an adhesive connection, by means of which additional tensile forces can be absorbed in the laying plane. A transfer function can be seen for example in the transmission of electrical energy. The panels can be coupled together via electrical contacts. These contacts may in a sense be grounding bridges, which are arranged in the end faces of adjacent panels and there contact each other.

Also in the displacement of the locking body sie sie is the combination of a side-puff system with a bayonet system, but with the difference to the first embodiment that the element to be displaced, that is the locking body, does not interfere with the adjacent panel,

In the embodiment in which the locking body is displaced, the Verriegeiungselement preferably consists of a separate component, which is not integrally formed integrally with the first panel, but is inserted into an undercut retaining groove of the first panel.

It is possible with appropriate strength of the core material of a panel to form the Verriegeiungselement material integral with the panel. This leads to the fact that the Verschnittantei! does not decrease so much because the locking element is the furthest projecting part of the panel, but thereby eliminates the in WO 2008/017301 A2 as Verriegeiungsleiste designated protrusions. In addition, no separate locking groove for the locking spring must be formed. Manufacturing technology therefore only the Verriegelungseiement must be formed with its mutually spaced tongues.

In the embodiment with displaceable locking body is provided in an advantageous development that parallel to the locking groove, a guide groove is arranged, in which the insertion part is arranged displaceably in the mounting position only in the longitudinal direction of the guide groove. A displacement transversely to the guide groove should not be possible, since the locking body _S has the task to secure the tongue of the locking element against withdrawal. Therefore, the locking body itself must be secured against pulling out. In a practical embodiment, this means that the guide itself has an undercut. The undercut may be a muzzle side of the guide groove arranged locking bar. This locking bar makes it possible to insert the locking body from the front side into the guide groove, so that it does not have to be threaded from the longitudinal side of the panel forth in the guide groove. This facilitates the pre-assembly of the panel. In the assembly position, that is, in the position in which the panels are engageable with each other, of course, the locking body can no longer pull out in the direction of the end face of the guide groove.

With regard to the design of the locking body, it is possible to form this so that it extends to the bottom of the panel. It forms a kind of support that transmits forces that are introduced by the locking element in the locking body, directly into the ground. This embodiment is preferred if the material of the panels does not have sufficient strength which makes it possible to first support the blocking body on the panel, while the panel in turn is supported on the ground. This alternative solution, in which the barrier body is located at a distance from the underside of the panel, is therefore used in higher-strength materials, such as HDF panels. Another important aspect is that the blocking body should have a certain elasticity. The locking body is preferably made of a plastic, the elasticity can be achieved not only by the selection of suitable materials, but also by constructive changes to the geometry of the locking body.

In a possible embodiment of the invention, the blocking body has at least one cavity, which is intended to improve the elastic deformability of the blocking body. The elastic cavity is located in particular in the region in which the locking body engages with the tongues of the locking element,

In all embodiments in which the locking element is used as a separate component in the locking groove, an undercut of the locking groove is necessary to accommodate acting in the laying plane tensile forces can. There are various possibilities for designing such an undercut:

In the context of the invention, an undercut in the locking groove and / or the retaining groove is formed, for example, by the fact that the cross section of the retaining groove and / or the locking groove is widened at a distance from its Nutmündung. This cross-sectional widening may be provided on one or both groove flanks. It may be dovetail-shaped extensions, but also circular, elliptical or polygonal extensions are possible. It is crucial that a portion of the recorded in the corresponding grooves locking element engages in the cross-sectional widening and is thereby held positively in the corresponding groove.

In the context of the invention under an undercut but also to understand that the retaining groove and / or locking groove are arranged in the mounting position in each case by 90 ° deviating angles to a front side plane. The front side plane is the plane that runs through the front side and is perpendicular to the laying plane. This means that for a Hinterschnesdung not necessarily a cross-sectional extension must be provided. It is also sufficient if the grooves are at an angle not equal to 90 ° to the front side, so that the elements received in the grooves can not be pulled out by only parallel to the laying plane extending movement of the corresponding groove. This condition is met when the angle is less than 90 ° and greater than 0 ° measured from the laying plane. In a practical embodiment, angles between 5 ° and 85 °, preferably between 10 ° and 60 °, in particular between 20 ° and 45 ° offer.

In the context of the invention, it is of course possible that the retaining groove and the locking groove have different cross-sections and Winkeilagen,

In an advantageous embodiment, it is provided that the first panel has a top residue, which is limited by a front edge, wherein on the front side over the decorative edge projecting support strip is arranged, it is intended to be in operative engagement with a Auflagerschuiter on the adjacent panel To serve supports.

The support bar may be located between the locking groove and the underside of the panel, but preferably it is between the top and the locking groove.

The support bar has the function to absorb compressive forces acting on the panels within the frontal plane from above, for example by treading, it does not have the function of transmitting tensile forces. Therefore, the support bar and the support shoulder can be parallel to the top of the panels.

However, the invention does not exclude that the Aufiagerleiste and the Auflagerschuiter are slightly inclined to the laying plane, so that they each form undercuts. This has the effect that on contact of the support strip with the support shoulder, the two panels are frontally pull each other. It ensures a tight fit of the panels in the joint area, even before the locking is done by the Verriegelungsseiemerite or blocking body. The Äuflagerleiste is shorter than the stimulus protruding locking elements.

Preferably, the adjacent panels are supported by direct mutual contact exclusively on the support strip and the support shoulder in the vertical direction against each other. Indirectly there is a support on the locking element, since this is in engagement with both panels. However, the invention obviates the need for the classic locking lasts as described in WO 2008/017301 A2.

In a preferred embodiment, the locking element exerts a locking force on the adjacent panel in the locking position. The locking force is divided into a horizontal force component acting in the laying plane and a vertical force component acting perpendicular to the laying plane. Preferably, the vertical force component is oriented so that it pulls the support shoulder against the Äuflagerleiste. The division into a horizontal and a vertical force component results in particular when the retaining grooves or locking grooves are arranged in an angle deviating from 90 ° to the front side plane. The angular position of the grooves determines the size of the vertical force components. The greater the angle with respect to the laying plane, the greater the vertical component of force. If the locking groove is oriented, for example, so that its lower surface is closer to the bottom of the panel than the groove mouth, which is directed upwards at the mouth, then the locking element pulls the adjacent panel downwards and thus against its own support bar.

Conversely, if the groove mouth facing down, because the Nuttiefste is located closer to the top of the panel than the groove mouth, reinforced vertical pressure forces can be absorbed, which act on the adjacent panel. In this case, the locking element pulls the support schuiter of the adjacent panel, although not against the support bar, but higher compressive forces can be transmitted because the tongues due to the pulling direction on the oberse term groove wall of the holding rest and thus can directly absorb forces that are introduced via this upper groove wall in the Verriegeiungseiement.

The locking element may be inserted from the front side into the retaining groove, wherein the locking element has a locking means which, upon reaching a latching position of the locking element in the retaining groove in a cross-sectional widening of the holding engages in order to secure the Verriegeiungsmittei against withdrawal. Just as the locking body is preferably used for rapid assembly of the front side in the guide groove, and the Verriegeiungseiement can be used from the front side in the associated locking groove, which simplifies and speeds up the pre-assembly. For this purpose, the locking element, similar to a hinged armature, have locking means which, as in the case of a dowel, automatically spread outwards in order to set up upon reaching the latching position and to dig into the retaining groove.

The cross-sectional widenings preferably extend over the entire retaining groove, so that thereby a displacement of the locking element in the longitudinal direction of the retaining groove is possible.

In a further embodiment, a head section of the tongue of the locking element located in the second panel may have at least one cavity which is provided to improve the elastic deformability of the head section. In this way, the frontal locking can be done with a certain bias, the bias is made possible by the elastic deformability of the head portion.

The bayonet principle used in the invention in combination with the side-push principle provides for a mutual toothing of the panels or the locking elements provided on the respective panels. In the manufacture of the locking elements, if it is being separate components, it is possible to use injection-molded components on which the corresponding tongues and recesses are formed prior to the assembly of the locking elements in the panels.

In an alternative embodiment, it is also conceivable that the locking elements are produced as a continuous, not yet toothed profiles, which is particularly possible in the extrusion process. After inserting the locking elements in the Haitenut can then be made in a processing step, which is carried out on the panel, the desired profiling, in which also the tongues are formed or the areas between the tongues are removed. The same applies vice versa for the locking body, which is provided only after mounting the locking body in the mounting position with corresponding recesses. Of course, the locking body can also be provided in advance as Sphtzgussbautesi with corresponding recesses. In principle, the blocking body can also consist of other materials, such as, for example, as a previously profiled part or profiled part. Of course, unless the locking body extends to the bottom of the panel, it is necessary to form pockets in the panel. The formation of pockets in the panel may occur simultaneously with the formation of recesses in the locking body, that is, in the assembled state of the locking body within the panel.

If the blocking body extends from the locking groove to the bottom, all the recesses are formed exclusively in the blocking body. This can also be done in the mounted state of the locking body.

The prefixing of the locking body and also the Verriegelungseiements can be done via clamping pins over which the locking body and the locking element are held by clamping in the associated groove. The clamping pins serve as additional transport safety and have a very small cross-section, they are only intended, the locking element or the locking body a firm hold before the To give or latch. In order to reduce the friction, the locking element and / or the locking body may be corrugated or grooved in contact areas with the corresponding panels in order to reduce the friction.

The covering according to the invention can in principle be locked on the head side manually. That is, after laying a row of panels by hand and with the aid of hand tools, such as a puller, it is possible to press on the end of the locking body or of the locking element in order to completely countersunk it in the groove and around the butt joint according to the Sidepush system in combination with the bayonet system.

Preferably, however, the locking does not follow by manually inserting each individual locking element or locking body, but by applying a further series of panels which bridge the rearward impact area of the previously laid row of panel panels. In the method according to the invention, it is provided that the head sides of the panels are latched with the above-described locking elements only when a further element panel engages with the longitudinal sides of the preceding row of panels and, with its longitudinal side, engages an end of the locking element projecting beyond the respective groove of the locking body pushes into the associated groove, so that it is locked by the bayonet system with the head side of the opposite panel.

The material for the locking elements or locking body may be both a wood material, that is, it may be wood or material contained in a wood fibers. Metals and metal alloys are just as suitable as composites. The use of bimetallic or mixed plastics is just as possible as the use of materials based on thermoplastic or thermosetting plastics. The head feather can consist in particular of a fiber-reinforced plastic with a fiber content of 20% to 60%.

The idea of the invention is applicable to all floor systems in which an upper covering is arranged on a carrier, such as, for example, wood flooring, laminate, support with painted surfaces as a covering, linoleum, cork on support plates, PVC sheets, etc. Decor paper with Överlay consist, which determines the appearance of the element plate. A floor covering may thus be a parquet floor, a finished parquet floor, a real wood floor or a laminate floor. Even large plates without special color surface treatment can be connected.

The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to embodiments shown in the schematic drawings. Show it:

Figure 1 shows a vertical section through the head-side joint area of two adjacent panels according to the line I - 1 of Figure 2;

Figure 2 is a plan view of a portion of a pad composed of several panels;

Figure 2a is a plan view of a section of a covering with inserted locking element;

Figures 3 to 9 further Vertikaischnitte by the head-side joint area between two adjacent panels analogous to the representation of Figure 1.

Figure 2 shows in plan view a floor covering consisting of a plurality of laid in the composite, rectangular panels 1 a, 2 a. The panels 1 a, 2 a are locked together by a combination of a side-puff system with a bayonet system. For this purpose, there is an undercut retaining groove 3a in the panel 1 a and a Ve riegeiungsnut 4a in the adjacent second panel 2a. The locking groove 4a has in this Embodiment of a substantially circular cross-section, as shown in Figure 1. The cross section may also be elliptical or polygonal. It is essential that it has an undercut facing away from the end face of the panel 2a, for example in the form of a cross-sectional widening.

FIG. 3 shows that a locking element 5a is inserted into the retaining groove 3a. The locking element 5a extends out of the Haitenut 3a and protrudes with spaced tongues 7a on the front side 6 of the left in the image plane panel 1. There is no component of the panel 1 a, which protrudes further than the locking element 5 a on the end face 6 (Figure 2a). For locking, a protruding end 28 is displaced into the retaining groove 3a (arrow P).

The locking element 5a engages in the Haitenut 4a. The Verriege! Ungselement 5a has for this purpose so-called tongues 7a. Several of these tongues 7a are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction of the locking element 5a. Corresponding to the mutual spacing of the tongues 7a, pockets 8 are formed in the panel 2a on the right in the image plane, which are identified by broken lines in FIG. 1 and FIG. The pockets are open to the front side 9 of the right in the image plane panel 2a. The pockets 8 are also open to the bottom 1 1, so that the right in the image plane panel 2 a can be stored from above next to the first panel 1 a or even angled. The second panel 2a can also be moved horizontally within the level of bending and inserted or driven under deflection of the tongues 7a. The tongues 7a engage from below into the panel 2a, in this position the tongue 7a engages in the above the pocket 8 arranged Verhegelungsnut 4a. The locking groove 4a has on its facing the top 10 groove flank a rounded undercut, behind which the tongue 7a engages. As a result, there is already a certain pull-out in the direction of the laying plane V. The laying plane V is parallel to the top 10 and bottom 1 1 of the panel 1 a. 2a, the Veriegeebene V thus stands perpendicular to one End side plane S, soft through the end soaps 6, 9 of the panels 1 a, 2 a extends.

The locking takes place in that the locking element 5a is displaced in Figure 3 into the image plane. Figure 2 indicates the direction of the VerriegeSungsbewegung by the Pfeii P on. In this case, the locking element 5a is displaced out of the pockets 8 with its tongues 7a, so that the tongues 7a lie above webs 12 which form the lower groove groove of the locking groove 4a. Since the tongue 7a has a thickened head 13, which is connected via a leaner shaft 14 on the other hand with that part of the locking element 5a, which is arranged in the retaining groove 3a, the tongue 7a no longer in the direction of the laying plane V from the adjacent panel 2a be pulled out, the panels 1 a, 2 a are secured against each other in the direction of the laying plane V. If the panels 1 a, 2 a in the horizontal direction, that is to be brought into contact with each other within the laying plane by horizontal displacement, that is, without the right in the image plane panel 2a is vertically stored from above or angled, it is necessary the head 13 of the tongue 7a dodges slightly downwards. For this purpose, the head 13 has a sufficient elasticity. In addition, a crimp joint 27 adjacent to the head 13 may be arranged on the underside 11 of the panels 1a, 2a facing side of the locking element 5a. This allows for easier distraction of the head 13 down. When the head 13 is in the locking groove 4 a, it automatically snaps back up, even supporting the tendency to pull the right-hand panel 2 a in the bi-lateral plane against the left-hand panel 1 a.

At the same time, the panels 1 a, 2 a are aligned with each other in height. For this purpose, FIGS. 1 and 3 show a support strip 15a on the first panel 1a or a support shoulder 18a on the adjacent panel 2a. The support strip 15a and the support shoulder 18a are located between the upper side 10 of the panels 1a, 2a and the locking groove 4a and the retaining groove 3a. Alternatively, a support strip 15b and a support shoulder 16b may be provided which are arranged between the underside 11 and the locking groove 4b or retaining groove 3b (FIG. 4). In this case, the locking element 5b is above the support bar 15b or the Aufiagerschulter 16b.

The positioning of the Auflagerieisten and Auflagerschuitern is also possible in the following embodiments above and below the groove arrangement.

In the embodiment of Figure 4, the retaining 3b is oriented in a deviating from 90 ° angle W to the front side plane S, whereby the retaining 3b in the context of the invention acts as an undercut groove, that is, that the locking element 5b not in the direction of the laying level V from the Haitenut 3b can be pulled out, but only obliquely upward. This results in that the locking force K also does not extend exclusively parallel to the laying plane V, but is oriented according to the angle W relative to the front side plane S. The vector of the locking force K can be divided into a horizontal force component KH and a vertical force component KV according to the orientation of the laying plane V and the front side plane S. The vertical force component KV pulls down the right in the image plane panel 2b down. As a result, the support shoulder 16b is pressed against the support strip 15b of the left panel 1b in the image plane. The panels 1 b, 2 b are firmly against each other.

The locking force K can be increased by the fact that with increasing displacement of the head 13 of the tongues 7a is pulled deeper into the locking groove 4b. For this purpose can be provided on the mouth side of the webs 12 ramp surfaces, which are configured in particular wedge-shaped. Essential here is the function to bias the individual heads 13, so that the panels 5a-b, 2a-b abut against each other at their end faces 8, 9. In order to increase the elasticity of the head 13, a cavity 17 may additionally be formed in the head 13. FIG. 3 shows such a cavity 17. The head 13 of the tongue 7a is longitudinally channeled.

The Äusführungsform of Figure 5 differs from that of Figures 1 to 4, characterized in that the retaining groove 3c is provided with diametrically opposite cross-sectional extensions 18. The cross-sectional widenings 18 are configured wedge-shaped, wherein the locking element 5c corresponding wedge-shaped locking center! 19, which take in the Querschn ttserweiterung 18 and prevent the Verriegeiungselement 5c on pulling parallel to Verlegeehene V.

The embodiment of Figure 6 differs from the previous one in that the cross-sectional extensions 18 are arranged at different distances from a groove mouth of the retaining groove 3d.

While in the embodiment of Figures 1 to 6 it is assumed that the locking element 5a-d is displaced, thus the side-push principle is applied to the left-hand panel in the image plane, while the bayonet principle is applied to the right-hand panel in the image plane acts, is provided in the embodiment of Figures 7 to 9, that both the side-pusher system and the bayonet system are performed exclusively on the right in the image plane panel. In detail:

Figure 7 shows two panels 1 e, 2 e with a locking element 5 e, which is in engagement with a locking body 2 oa. In contrast to the embodiment of FIG. 3, the blocking body 20a forms the underside of the locking groove 4e. There are therefore no pockets in the panel 2e, but only the blocking body 20a, which has recesses 21 corresponding to the pockets. The recesses 21 are indicated by the dashed line.

The lock body 20a is held in a guide groove 22a which is adjacent to the lock groove 4e. To lock the panels 1 e, 2e the locking element 5e displaced as well as in the embodiment of Figures 1 to 6.

Conversely, it is also possible with identical configuration to fix the locking element 5e, for example by being glued into the retaining groove 3a and therefore not displaceable in the longitudinal direction of the retaining groove 3a. However, part of the locking element 5e of the locking body 20a can be moved within the guide groove 22a in the longitudinal direction of the guide groove 22a and thus parallel to the locking groove 4e,

Figure 8 shows a modification of the variant described above, in which the locking element 5f mate aleinheitlich formed integrally with the panel 1f. Here as well, as in all other embodiments, the locking element 5f projects farthest beyond the upper-order decorative edge 23 of the panel 1f. So also on the support bar 15c of the panel 1f. Since the locking element 5f is fixed, the blocking body 20a explained in FIG. 7 must be displaceable in the longitudinal direction of the guide groove 22a, so that the head 13 of the locking element 5f is also held on the bottom side, just as in the case of the panels 2a-d, which have webs 8 between the individual pockets 12a, the locking body 20a also has corresponding webs between the recesses 21.

The embodiment of Figure 9 provides, in contrast to the embodiment of Figure 8, that the local locking body 20b does not extend to the bottom of the panel 2g, but rests on a web 12a. The web 12a is in turn interrupted by pockets 8, which are indicated by the dashed line. The locking element 5g is fixed, so it can not be displaced in the longitudinal direction of the flute groove 3a. The locking takes place via the locking body 20b, which is mounted longitudinally displaceably in its guide groove 22b. The locking body 20 b is configured in an L-shape and has at its end facing the front side 9 an upwardly facing locking bar 24 with a cavity 25 which the elasticity of Lock list 24 increased in this area. The locking bar 24 engages in an undercut 26 on the head 13 of the Verriegeiungselements 5g, so that the head 13 can not be pulled out in the direction of the laying plane V from the panel 2g.

However, the embodiment of FIG. 9 also basically allows the blocking body 20b to be arranged in a stationary manner, while the locking element 5g is displaced in the longitudinal direction of the grooves. The blocking body 20b is always located above the webs 12a for this purpose. This can be advantageous for manufacturing reasons. The locking body 20b provides the necessary elasticity for the connection. However, it is not actively relocated for locking. This is done exclusively by the locking element 5g. Thus, this embodiment allows both the locking of the locking body 20b as well as the locking elements 5g, wherein for locking each one of the two components is fixed, while the other component is moved.

Bezucjszeichen:

1a - panel

1b - panel

lePanel

id panel

1e ~ panel

1f panel

ig panel

2a - panel

2b panel

2c - panel

2d panel

2e - panel

2f panel

zg - r 9ΠΘΘΙ

3a - holding groove

3b- retaining groove

3c - Halfenut

3d - holding good

4a - locking groove

4b locking groove

4c ~ locking groove

4d - locking groove

4e - locking groove

4f - locking groove

4g locking groove

5a - locking element

5b - locking element

5c - Vernegei element

5d - locking element

5e - Vernegei element

5f locking element g ~ locking element

6- front side

a - tongue

8 - bag

9- front side

0- top

1 - bottom

2- footbridge

a - footbridge

3- head

4- shaft

a- support strip

b- Auflagerteisie

c - support bar

a - support shoulder abutment shoulder7 cavity

8- Cross-section extension9 - Locking device

a - blocking body

b - locking body

1 - recess

guide

b guide groove

3- decorative edge

4- Bar

5 - cavity

8 - undercut 7- crimping

8 ~ supernatant end K - locking power

KH - Krafl component

KV - force component

P - arrow

S - frontal plane

V - Veriegeebene

W - angle

Claims

1 . Covering of mechanically interconnectable panels (1 ad, 2a-d), which at their end faces (6, 9) via Verriegelungseiemente (3a-d) are mechanically interlocked with each other, having the following features: a) on an end face (6) of a first Panel (1 a ~ d) is an undercut retaining groove (3a-d), for receiving a in the longitudinal direction of the retaining groove (3a-d) extending locking element (5a ~ d); b) The locking element (5a-d) protrudes with a plurality of mutually spaced tongues (7a) out of the end face (8) to in pockets (8) of an undercut locking groove (4a-d) in the opposite end face (9) of an adjacent panel (2a ~ d) to take hold; c) the pockets (8) are open to a bottom (1 1) and to the front side (9) of the adjacent panel (2a-d); d) The locking element (5a-d) is provided for by moving one end of the locking element (5a-d) into the retaining groove (3a-d), at least partially out of the pockets (8) in the direction of the locking groove (4a). d) to be displaced in order to secure the panels (1 a ~ d, 2a-d) against a tensile force acting in the direction of the laying plane (V) of the panels (1 ad, 2a-d),

2. covering of mechanically interconnectable panels which are mechanically interlockable at their end faces (8, 9) via locking elements (5e-g), having the following features: a) on a front side (6) of a first panel (1 eg) a locking element (5e ~ g), which is a plurality of spaced apart Having tongues (7) pointing in the direction of the adjacent second panel (2e ~ g); b) the locking element (5e-g) protrudes with respect to the end face (6) to engage in a locking groove (4e ~ g) in the opposite end face (9) of the adjacent panel (2e-g}; 4e-g) is bounded in part by a separate blocking body (20a-b) which is held on the second panel (2e-g) and which leads to a lower side (11) and to the front side (9) of the adjacent panel (2e-g). g) has open recesses (21); d) The area between the recesses (21) serves as a latch portion, which is intended, by moving the locking body (20 a, b) in the direction of the locking groove (4 e ~ g), the tabs (7) to engage behind the panels ( 1 eg, 2e-g} against a pulling force acting in the direction of the laying plane (V) of the panels (1 eg, 2e-g).

Covering according to claim 2, characterized in that the locking element (5e, g) is formed as a separate component which is arranged in an undercut retaining groove (3e, g) of the first panel (1e, g).

Covering according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that a guide groove (22a, b) is arranged parallel to the locking groove (4e-g), in which the locking body (20a, b) in the mounting position only in the longitudinal direction of the guide groove (22a , b) is arranged displaceably,

Covering according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the blocking body (20a) extends to the underside (11) of the panel (2e, f). 8, covering according to one of claims 2 to 4, dad u rch geken net nets that the locking body (20b) at a distance from the bottom (1 1) of the panel (2g) is arranged.

7. Covering according to one of claims 2 to 6, dad u rch geken net nzeich that the locking body (20 b) has a cavity (25), which is intended to improve the elastic deformability of the locking body (20 b).

8. Covering according to one of claims 1 to 7, dad urch in that the undercut in the retaining groove (3 c, d) and / or the locking groove (4 a ~ g) is formed by the fact that the cross section of the retaining groove (3 c, d ) and / or locking groove (4a-g) extended at a distance from their respective Nutmündung.

9. covering according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the undercut of the Haitenut (3a-d) and / or the locking groove (4a ~ g) is formed by the fact that the Haitenut (3a-d) or locking groove (4a-g) are arranged in the mounting position in each case in angles deviating from 90 ° (W) to a front side plane (S), wherein the front side plane (S) through the end face (6, 9) and is perpendicular to the Veriegebene (V),

10. Covering according to one of claims 1 to 9, dad u rch in that the first panel (1 ag) has an upper side (10) which is frontally bounded by a decorative edge (23), wherein at the end face (6) has a the front side over the decorative edge (23) projecting support strip (15a, b), which is intended to serve in operative engagement with a Auflagerschulter (18a, b) on the adjacent panel (2a ~ g) as a support.

1 1. Covering according to claim 10, characterized in that the adjacent panels (1 ag, 2a-g) are supported against each other in the vertical direction by direct mutual contact only via the support strip (15a, b) and the support shoulder (16a, b),

12. A covering according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the locking element (5a-e) in the locking position exerts a locking force (K) on the adjacent panel (2a-g) which is in a horizontal force component (KH) acting in the laying plane (V) and a vertical force component (KV) directed perpendicularly to the laying plane (V), the vertical force component (KV) deflecting the bearing shoulder (16a, b) against the support strip (15a, b ) pulls.

13. Covering according to one of claims 1 to 12, d ad urch characterized in that the Verriegelungseiement (5 c, d) from the end face (9) forth in the retaining groove (3 c, d) can be inserted, wherein the Verriegelungseiement (5 c, d) Locking means (19) which, upon reaching a latching position of the locking element (5c, d) in the retaining groove (3c, d) in a cross-sectional widening (18) of the retaining groove (3c, d) sums to the Verriegelungseiement (5c _s d) against Secure pulling out.

14. Covering according to one of claims 1 to 13, dad urch gekennzeich net, that in the second panel (2 a) lying head portion (13) of the tongues (7) of the Verriegelungseiements (3 a) at least one cavity (17), which therefor is provided to improve the elastic deformability of the head portion (13).

15. covering according to one of claims 1 or 4 to 14, dad urch gekennzeich net, that the locking groove (4 e-g) on its side facing the underside (1 1) of the panel (2 e-g) side has a groove edge which of a formed on the panel (2e-g) locking body (22a, b) is formed, in which the pockets corresponding Äusnebmungen (21) are formed.

16. A method for producing a panel for a covering according to one of claims 2 to 15, dad u rch geken designated d the recesses (21) in the locking body (20 a, b) after mounting the locking body (20 a, b) be formed in the Montageiage on the panel (2e-g).

17. The method according to claim 18, dad u rch characterized in that with the recesses (21) congruent pockets (8) are made together in one operation, wherein the locking body (20 a, b) in the ontagelage on the panel (2 e-g) are located.

18. A method for laying a covering according to one of the claims 1 to 15 with the following steps: a) A first panel (1a-d) is arranged in the laying plane (V); b) A second panel (2a-d) at a horizontal distance from the first panel (1 a ~ d) is also arranged in the laying plane (V); c) The second panel (2a ~ d) is displaced within the laying plane (V), wherein the locking element (5a-d) during the approach of the end faces (6, 9) partially pressed down elastically by the second panel (2a-d) becomes; d) The locking element (5a ~ d) or a locking body (20a, 20b) are for locking the adjacent panels (1 a ~ d, 2a ~ d) parallel to the end face (6, 9) of the panels (1 ad, 2a-d ) relocated.