EP3467233A1 - Floor panel with a mechanical locking system - Google Patents

Abstract

Panel (1,4,5) comprising a panel top and a panel bottom and opposite panel edges (6,7) with paired complementary hook-shaped holding profiles (8,9; 10,11), which match such that similar panels are fastened together , The body of the panels is at least partially made of polyvinylchloride (PVC) with a softening agent in the range of> 0 wt% to <20 wt%, and in the hull calcium carbonate (chalk) in a range of> 30 wt .-% to <70 wt .-% is provided.

Description

The invention relates to a panel, comprising a panel top and a panel bottom and at least four panel edges, which face each other in pairs, with matching at the panel edges complementary retaining profiles that match such that similar panels are fastened together, wherein at least one of the retaining profile pairs provided with hook profiles is, namely on a panel edge with a receiving hook and on the opposite panel edge with a locking hook.

With such panels, for example, floor coverings are made, in particular, such panels are suitable for floating floor coverings. The panels usually have decorative surfaces.

The proposed panel should be suitable for interlocking according to the "fold-down method". For this method, a Paneelart is used in which one of the retaining profile pairs is provided with a modified tongue and groove profile, while the other pair of retaining profile is provided with the hook profiles according to the invention. For the fold-down method, a new panel is angled and preferably brought with its spring profile edge to the groove profile edge of a horizontal panel or a row of panels. Subsequently, the new panel is pivoted down into the plane of the assembled panels and thereby locks the spring profile form-fitting with the groove profile. During the mentioned swing-down movement, a positive locking of the hook profiles is generated at the same time, because one of the hook profiles scissor-like moved to the other hook profile and positively interlocked with this hook. There is a lock instead.

In addition, the proposed hook profiles are also suitable for a push-down locking. For a push-down latch, all the panel pairs of panels need to be connected by a vertical movement, i. for example, by a lowering movement of a panel, namely in a direction perpendicular to the panel top direction (vertical). The fold-down method is then not applicable.

In practice it happens that a panel can not be locked at the end of a panel row because a wall in the way and the panel is too long. In order to close the gap in the floor, it is common to use a panel e.g. cut with a saw to cut it to the required length. As a rule, a new row of panels can be started with the separated residual piece of the panel. Basically, the complementary retaining profiles of a severed panel always fit together. In principle, therefore, complementary retaining profile edges of a severed panel can be locked together.

The WO 01/02670 proposes different hook profile pairs. The hook profiles are intended to prevent horizontal pulling apart of the panels, ie in the panel plane and perpendicular to the locked panel edges. However, it appears in a load in said horizontal direction that the strength of the hook profiles is unsatisfactory.

Other panels with hook profile pairs are from the WO 2010/143962 A1 known. The various embodiments of this prior art suffer from the fact that the hook profile pairs, when pulled apart in the panel plane and perpendicular to the latched panel edges, may burst. This happens especially when the panels of artificial Consist of wood material consisting of wood particles or fibers, which are bound with a binder to a plate material.

Therefore, the Applicant is looking for a panel with an improved hook profile pair.

The invention proposes for this purpose, a panel comprising a panel top and a panel underside and at least four panel edges, which face each other in pairs with complementary retaining profiles provided on the panel edges, which match each other such that similar panels are fastened to each other, wherein at least one of Halteprofilpaare is provided with hook profiles, namely on a panel edge with a receiving hook and on the opposite edge of the panel with a locking hook, the receiving hook has a panel facing the top receiving edge and an open to the panel top receiving groove and the locking hook with a directed towards the bottom panel locking edge and with a for Paneelunterseite open locking groove is provided, wherein the receiving edge has an inner side, which faces the receiving groove, and this inner side serves as a lower locking surface, and matching the Arretierrand a e inner side facing the locking groove, and this inner side serving as a corresponding upper locking surface, with the proviso that both the upper locking surface and the lower locking surface are respectively inclined from the solder on the panel top so as to be locked to each other in the locked state are parallel and can touch, wherein the inclination of the locking surfaces is selected so that the normal vector on the lower locking surface intersects the panel top and the normal vector on the upper locking surface intersects the panel bottom, wherein a lower latch is provided which comprises a first locking means , which is disposed on an outer side of the receiving edge, and the lower Locking a second locking means corresponding thereto, which is arranged on a recessed groove flank of the locking groove, wherein at least a portion of the top of the receiving edge in the direction of the outside of the receiving edge is inclined downwards, wherein at least a portion of the groove bottom of the locking groove is adapted in a complementary manner the inclination of the top of the receiving edge.

The normal vector is directed in the sense of the invention in each case by the corresponding locking surface perpendicular to the outside (not directed into the panel material). The normal vector includes, with the respective panel side which it intersects, in each case an angle which is the same as the angular dimension by which the locking surfaces are inclined with respect to the perpendicular on the panel top side (change angle). The inclination of the locking surfaces relative to the solder on the top of the panel may be in an angular range α of 4 ° to 50 °. Preferably, the angle α is in a range of 5 ° to 30 °, and more preferably in a range of 5 ° to 15 °.

The panel is preferably made of a wood material, such as HDF, MDF or OSB, in a broader sense, including WPC materials (wood plastic composite). Since the locking mechanism requires a certain elasticity, in particular in the region of the first and thus corresponding second locking means, the materials mentioned are suitable because of their certain elasticity. Alternatively, the panel material may also be a plastic, as in the case of LVT (luxury vinyl tiles) products, for example, because this plastic also has some elasticity.

If the body of the panel at least partially consists of a plastic, then an embodiment of a hull made of a plastic or a wood-plastic composite material (WPC) exist. The carrier plate or the hull is formed for example of a thermoplastic, elastomeric or thermosetting plastic. Furthermore, recycled materials from the materials mentioned can be used within the scope of the invention. Plate material is preferably used here, in particular of thermoplastic material, such as polyvinyl chloride, polyolefins (for example polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyamides (PA), polyurethanes (PU), polystyrene (PS), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) , Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyetheretherketone (PEEK) or mixtures or co-polymers, plasticizers may be provided independently of the base material of the support plate, for example in a range of ≥0 wt. % to ≦ 20% by weight, in particular ≦ 10% by weight, preferably ≦ 7% by weight, for example in a range from ≥ 5% by weight to ≦ 10% by weight A suitable plasticizer includes, for example, the softener marketed under the trade name "Dinsch" by the company BASF Furthermore, copolymers, such as acrylates or methacrylates, may be provided as a replacement for conventional plasticizers.

In particular, thermoplastics also offer the advantage that the products made from them can be recycled very easily. Recycled materials from other sources can also be used. This results in a further possibility for reducing the production costs.

Such carrier plates are very elastic or resilient, which allows a comfortable impression when walking and also can reduce the noise occurring when committing compared to conventional materials, thus improved footfall sound insulation can be realized.

Moreover, the above-mentioned carrier plates offer the advantage of good water resistance since they have a swelling of 1% or less. This is true in a surprising way in addition to pure plastic substrates for WPC materials, as they are explained in detail below.

In a particularly advantageous manner, the material of the carrier plate may comprise or consist of wood-polymer materials (WPC). Here, by way of example, a wood and a polymer may be suitable, which may be present in a ratio of 40/60 to 70/30, for example 50/50. As the polymeric components may be used such as polypropylene, polyethylene or a copolymer of the two aforementioned materials. Such materials offer the advantage that they can be formed into a carrier plate even at low temperatures, such as in a range of ≥180 ° C to ≤200 ° C in the method described above, so that a particularly effective process, such as at exemplary line speeds in a range of 6m / min, can be made possible. For example, for a WPC product having a 50/50 distribution of the wood and polymer fractions, an exemplary product thickness of 4.1 mm is possible, which may allow a particularly effective manufacturing process.

Furthermore, very stable panels can be produced which furthermore have high elasticity, which can be advantageous in particular for an effective and cost-effective design of connecting elements on the edge region of the carrier plate and furthermore with regard to footfall sound insulation. Furthermore, the aforementioned good water compatibility can be made possible with a swelling of less than 1% in such WPC materials. In this case, WPC materials, for example, stabilizers and / or other additives, which may preferably be present in the plastic content.

Furthermore, it may be particularly advantageous that the carrier plate comprises or consists of a PVC-based material. Also, such materials can be used in a particularly advantageous manner for high quality panels, which are easily used even in wet rooms. Furthermore, PVC-based materials for the carrier plate are also suitable for a particularly effective production process, since here line speeds of 8 m / min with an exemplary product thickness of 4.1 mm can be possible, which can enable a particularly effective production process. Furthermore, such carrier plates have an advantageous elasticity and water compatibility, which can lead to the aforementioned advantages.

In the case of plastic-based panels as well as WPC-based panels, mineral fillers may be advantageous. Particularly suitable here are about talc or calcium carbonate (chalk), alumina, silica, quartz, wood flour, gypsum. For example, chalk can be provided in a range of ≥30 wt .-% to ≤70 wt .-%, wherein in particular by the fillers, in particular by the chalk, the slippage of the support plate can be improved. Also, they can be colored in a known manner. In particular, it can be provided that the material of the carrier plates has a flame retardant.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the material of the carrier plate consists of a mixture of a PE / PP block copolymer with wood. The proportion of PE / PP block copolymer and the proportion of wood between ≥45 wt .-% and ≤55 wt .-% may be. Furthermore, the material of the carrier plate can have between ≥0% by weight and ≦ 10% by weight of other additives, such as flow aids, heat stabilizers or UV stabilizers. The particle size of the wood is between> 0 microns and ≤600 μm with a preferred particle size distribution D50 of ≥400 μm. In particular, the material of the carrier plate may have wood with a particle size distribution D10 of ≥400 μm. The particle size distribution is based on the volumetric diameter and refers to the volume of the particles. Particularly preferably, the material of the carrier plate is provided as a granulated or pelletized pre-extruded mixture of a PE / PP block copolymer with wood particles of the specified particle size distribution. The granules and / or the pellets may preferably have a particle size in a range of ≥400 μm to ≤10 mm, preferably ≥600 μm to ≤10 mm, in particular ≥800 μm to ≤10 mm.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the carrier plate consists of a mixture of a PE / PP polymer blend with wood. In this case, the proportion of the PE / PP polymer blend and the proportion of wood between ≥45 wt .-% and ≤55 wt .-% are. Furthermore, the material of the carrier plate can have between ≥0% by weight and ≦ 10% by weight of other additives, such as flow aids, heat stabilizers or UV stabilizers. The particle size of the wood is between> 0 μm and ≤600 μm with a preferred particle size distribution D50 of ≥400 μm. In particular, the carrier plate may have wood with a particle size distribution D10 of ≥400 μm. The particle size distribution is based on the volumetric diameter and refers to the volume of the particles. Particularly preferably, the material of the carrier plate is provided as a granulated or pelletized pre-extruded mixture of a PE / PP polymer blend with wood particles of the specified particle size distribution. The granules and / or the pellets may preferably have a particle size in a range of ≥400 μm to ≤10 mm, preferably ≥600 μm to ≤10 mm, in particular ≥800 μm to ≤10 mm.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the material of the carrier plate consists of a mixture of a PP homopolymer with wood. In this case, the proportion of the PP homopolymer and the wood content between ≥45 wt .-% and ≤55 wt .-% are. Furthermore, the material of the carrier plate can have between ≥0% by weight and ≦ 10% by weight of other additives, such as flow aids, heat stabilizers or UV stabilizers. The particle size of the wood is between> 0 μm and ≤600 μm with a preferred particle size distribution D50 of ≥400 μm. In particular, the carrier plate may have wood with a particle size distribution D10 of ≥400 μm. The particle size distribution is based on the volumetric diameter and refers to the volume of the particles. In this case, the material of the carrier plate is particularly preferably provided as a granulated or pelletized pre-extruded mixture of a PP homopolymer with wood particles of the stated particle size distribution. The granules and / or the pellets may preferably have a particle size in a range of ≥400 μm to ≤10 mm, preferably ≥600 μm to ≤10 mm, in particular ≥800 μm to ≤10 mm. In a further embodiment of the invention, the material of the carrier plate consists of a mixture of a PVC polymer with chalk. The proportion of the PVC polymer and the amount of chalk can be between ≥45% by weight and ≤55% by weight. Furthermore, the material of the carrier plate can have between ≥0% by weight and ≦ 10% by weight of other additives, such as flow aids, heat stabilizers or UV stabilizers. The particle size of the chalk is between> 0 μm and ≤600 μm with a preferred particle size distribution D50 of ≥400 μm. In particular, the material of the carrier plate can have chalk with a particle size distribution D10 of ≥400 μm. The particle size distribution is based on the volumetric diameter and refers to the volume of the particles. Particularly preferred is the material of the carrier plate as granulated or pelleted pre-extruded blend of a PVC polymer with chalk having the specified particle size distribution provided. The granules and / or the pellets may preferably have a particle size in a range of ≥400 μm to ≤10 mm, preferably ≥600 μm to ≤10 mm, in particular ≥800 μm to ≤10 mm.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the material of the carrier plate consists of a mixture of a PVC polymer with wood. In this case, the proportion of PVC polymer and the wood content between ≥45 wt .-% and ≤55 wt .-% are. Furthermore, the material of the carrier plate can have between ≥0% by weight and ≦ 10% by weight of other additives, such as flow aids, heat stabilizers or UV stabilizers. The particle size of the wood is between> 0 μm and ≤600 μm with a preferred particle size distribution D50 of ≥400 μm. In particular, the material of the carrier plate may have wood with a particle size distribution D10 of ≥400 μm. The particle size distribution is based on the volumetric diameter and refers to the volume of the particles. In this case, the material of the carrier plate is particularly preferably provided as granulated or pelletized pre-extruded mixture of a PVC polymer with wood particles of the stated particle size distribution. The granules and / or the pellets may preferably have a particle size in a range of ≥400 μm to ≤10 mm, preferably ≥600 μm to ≤10 mm, in particular ≥800 μm to ≤10 mm.

To determine the particle size distribution, it is possible to resort to the generally known methods, such as, for example, laser diffractometry, with which method particle sizes ranging from a few nanometers to several millimeters can be determined. It is thus also possible to determine D50 or D10 values which are 50% or 10% of the measured particles smaller than the specified one Value.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the material of the carrier plate has a plastic material containing matrix material and a solid material, wherein the solid material to at least 50 wt .-%, in particular at least 80 wt .-%, particularly preferably at least 95 wt .-% , based on the solid material, is formed by talc. In this case, the matrix material is in an amount, based on the material of the carrier, of ≥ 30 wt .-% to ≤ 70 wt .-%, in particular from ≥ 40 wt .-% to ≤ 60 wt .-%, and is the Solid material, based on the material of the carrier, in an amount, based on the material of the carrier plate, of ≥ 30 wt .-% to ≤ 70 wt .-%, in particular from ≥ 40 wt .-% to ≤ 60 wt .-% , For example, less than or equal to 50 wt .-% before. Furthermore, it is provided that the material of the carrier plate and the solid material together, based on the material of the carrier plate in an amount of ≥ 95 wt .-%, in particular ≥ 99 wt .-%, are present.

The solid material may be formed in such an embodiment of the invention to at least 50 wt .-%, in particular at least 80 wt .-%, for example, 100%, based on the solid material, by talc. Under talc is understood in a conventional manner, a magnesium silicate hydrate, which may have, for example, the chemical empirical formula Mg3 [Si4O10 (OH) 2]. Thus, the solids content is advantageously formed at least by a large part of the mineral substance talc, wherein this substance can be used for example as a powder form or may be present in the material of the carrier plate in the form of particles. In principle, the solid material can consist of a pulverulent solid.

It can be advantageous if the BET specific surface density, ISO 4652 of the talcum particles is in a range of ≥ 4 m 2 / g to ≦ 8 m 2 / g, approximately in one range from ≥ 5 m2 / g to ≤ 7 m2 / g.

Furthermore, it may be advantageous if the talcum is present at a bulk density according to DIN 53468 in a range of ≥ 0.15 g / cm3 to ≤ 0.45 g / cm3, approximately in a range of ≥ 0.25 g / cm3 to ≤ 0.35 g / cm3.

The matrix material in such an embodiment of the invention serves, in particular, to take up or embed the solid material in the finished carrier. The matrix material in this case has a plastic or a plastic mixture. With particular reference to the manufacturing method, as described in detail below, it may be advantageous for the matrix material to comprise a thermoplastic. This allows the material of the support plate or a component of the material of the support plate has a melting point or a softening point to form the material of the support plate in a further step by heat, as described in detail below with respect to the method , The matrix material may in particular consist of a plastic or a plastic mixture and optionally a bonding agent. These components may preferably constitute at least 90% by weight, particularly preferably at least 95% by weight, in particular at least 99% by weight, of the matrix material.

Furthermore, it can be provided that the matrix material in an amount, based on the material of the carrier plate, of ≥ 30 wt .-% to ≤ 70 wt .-%, in particular from ≥ 40 wt .-% to ≤ 60 wt .-% is present. Furthermore, it is provided that the solid material, based on the material of the carrier plate, in an amount, based on the material of the carrier plate, of ≥ 30 wt .-% to ≤ 70 wt .-%, in particular of ≥ 40 wt .-% to ≤ 60 wt .-%, is present.

Polypropylene is particularly suitable as a matrix material, since it is available on the one hand cost-effective and also has good properties as a thermoplastic material as a matrix material for embedding the solid material. In this case, in particular a mixture of a homopolymer and a copolymer for the matrix material can provide particularly advantageous properties. Such materials also have the advantage that they can be formed into a carrier even at low temperatures, such as in a range of ≥ 180 ° C to ≤ 200 ° C in the method described above, so that a particularly effective process, such as with exemplary Line speeds in a range of 6m / min, can be made possible.

Furthermore, it may be advantageous if the homopolymer has a tensile strength according to ISO 527-2, which is in a range of ≥ 30 MPa to ≤ 45 MPa, for example in a range of ≥ 35 MPa to ≤ 40 MPa, to good stability to reach.

Furthermore, in particular for good stability, it can be advantageous if the homopolymer has a flexural modulus according to ISO 178 in a range from ≥ 1000 MPa to ≦ 2200 MPa, for example in a range from ≥ 1300 MPa to ≦ 1900 MPa, approximately in one range from ≥ 1500 MPa to ≤ 1700 MPa.

With respect to the tensile deformation of the homopolymer according to ISO 527-2, it may also be advantageous if it is in a range of ≥ 5% to ≤ 13%, for example in a range of ≥ 8% MPa to ≤ 10%.

For a particularly advantageous manufacturability it can be provided that the Vicat softening temperature according to ISO 306 / A for an injection-molded component, in a range from ≥ 130 ° C MPa to ≤ 170 ° C, for example in a range of ≥ 145 ° C. up to ≤ 158 ° C.

It may also be advantageous for the solid material to have at least one further solid in addition to talcum. This embodiment may in particular make it possible that the weight of the material of the carrier plate or of a panel formed with the material of the carrier plate compared with a material of the carrier plate or panel, in which the solid material consists of talc, can be significantly reduced. Thus, the solids added to the solid material may in particular have a reduced density compared to talc. For example, the added substance can have a bulk density which lies in a range of ≦ 2000 kg / m 3, in particular ≦ 1500 kg / m 3, for example of ≦ 1000 kg / m 3, particularly preferably ≦ 500 kg / m 3. Depending on the added solid, a further adaptability to the desired, in particular mechanical properties can be made possible further.

By way of example, the further solid may be selected from the group consisting of wood, for example in the form of wood flour, expanded clay, volcanic ash, pumice, aerated concrete, in particular inorganic foams, cellulose. With regard to aerated concrete, this may be, for example, the solid used by the company Xella under the trade name YTONG, which consists essentially of quartz sand, lime and cement, or the aerated concrete may have the abovementioned constituents. With regard to the added solid, it may be constructed, for example, of particles having the same particle size or particle size distribution as the particle sizes or particle size distributions described above for talc. The further solids may in particular be present in a proportion in the solid material which is in a range of <50% by weight, in particular <20% by weight, for example <10% by weight, further for example <5% by weight, lies.

Alternatively, it can be provided for example for wood, in particular for wood flour, that its particle size is between> 0μm and ≤600μm with a preferred particle size distribution D50 of ≥400μm.

According to a further embodiment, the material of the carrier plate may comprise hollow microspheres. Such additives can in particular cause the density of the support plate and thus of the panel produced can be significantly reduced, so that a particularly simple and cost-effective transport and also a particularly comfortable installation can be guaranteed. In this case, a stability of the panel produced can be ensured in particular by the insertion of hollow microspheres, which is not significantly reduced compared to a material without hollow microspheres. Thus, stability is sufficient for most of the applications. Under hollow microspheres can be understood in particular structures that have a hollow body and have a size or a maximum diameter, which is in the micrometer range. For example, usable hollow spheres may have a diameter which is in the range of ≥5 μm to ≤100 μm, for example ≥20 μm to ≤50 μm. As a material of the hollow microspheres is basically any material into consideration, such as glass or ceramic. Furthermore, due to the weight of plastics, such as the plastics used in the material of the support plate, for example PVC, PE or PP, may be advantageous, which may optionally be prevented, for example by suitable additives, from deforming during the manufacturing process.

The hardness of the material of the carrier plate may have values in a range of 30-90 N / mm ² (measured according to Brinell). The modulus of elasticity can range from 3,000 to 7,000 N / mm ² .

The portion of the groove bottom of the locking groove and the portion of the top of the receiving edge can be aligned parallel to each other in the locked state.

The receiving groove of a hook profile is such that the locking edge of the complementary hook profile fits into the receiving groove and the locking groove of the complementary hook profile is such that the receiving edge of a hook profile fits into the locking groove.

A further development provides that the first latching means of the lower latching has a latching projection, and that the second latching means of the lower latching has a mating latching recess.

Alternatively, the first locking means of the lower latching a latching recess and that the second latching means of the lower latching have a mating latching projection.

It may also be useful if an upper latching is provided which has a first latching means on an outer side of the arresting edge, and a second latching means corresponding thereto is provided on a recessed groove flank of the receiving slot.

The first latching means of the upper latching arrangement expediently has a latching projection and that second latching means of the upper latching mechanism has a matching latching recess.

Alternatively, the first locking means of the upper latching a locking recess and that the second locking means of the upper latching have a mating latching projection.

A further benefit is obtained if at least one free space is provided between the underside of the arresting edge and the groove bottom of the receiving groove. The space can absorb dirt particles or other loose particles. For panels made of wood materials, for example, particles from the edge of the panel can replace, which should not settle between joining surfaces of the hook profiles. Otherwise they could hinder a positionally correct locking of the hook profiles.

Moreover, it is useful if in the locked state, a gap between the outside of the receiving edge and groove flank of the locking groove is provided.

Conveniently, an underside of the Arretierrand in the locked state at least partially touches the groove bottom of the receiving groove. If a load presses on the panel top in the region of the arresting edge, the arresting edge can bear this load because its underside is supported on the groove bottom of the receiving groove of the receiving hook.

The receiving edge expediently has a transition to the inside of the receiving groove, wherein the transition is provided with a curvature. The curvature provides edge protection. It can also serve to guide the locking edge when it comes into contact with the curvature. Thus, the Arretierrand along the curvature is moved down into the receiving groove.

Fig. 1

fold-down-Methode rechtsgängig

Fig. 2

fold-down-Methode linksgängig

Fig. 3

ein erstes Ausführungsbeispiel eines erfindungsgemäßen Paneels, wobei das Paneel zerteilt dargestellt ist, um dessen gegenüberliegende Hakenprofile im noch nicht verriegelten Zustand darzustellen,

Fig. 4

die Hakenprofile des Paneels gemäß Fig. 3 im verriegelten Zustand,

Fig. 4a

ein vergrößertes Detail gemäß Ausschnitt IVa in Fig. 4

Fig. 4b

eine Alternative für Fig. 4a

Fig. 5

ein weiteres Ausführungsbeispiel für Hakenprofile des Paneels gemäß Fig. 3 im verriegelten Zustand,

Fig. 5a

ein vergrößertes Detail gemäß Ausschnitt Va in Fig. 5

Fig. 5b

eine alternative für Fig. 5a

Fig. 6

ein weiteres Ausführungsbeispiel für Hakenprofile des Paneels gemäß Fig. 3 im verriegelten Zustand,

Fig. 7

ein weiteres Ausführungsbeispiel für Hakenprofile des Paneels gemäß Fig. 3 im verriegelten Zustand,

Fig. 8

ein weiteres Ausführungsbeispiel für Hakenprofile des Paneels gemäß Fig. 3 im verriegelten Zustand,

Fig. 8a

ein vergrößertes Detail gemäß Ausschnitt VIIIa in Fig. 8

Fig. 8b

eine alternative für Fig. 8a

Fig. 9

ein weiteres Ausführungsbeispiel für Hakenprofile des Paneels gemäß Fig. 3 im verriegelten Zustand,

The invention is illustrated by way of example in a drawing and described in detail with reference to several embodiments. Show it:

Fig. 1

fold-down method right-handed

Fig. 2

Fold-down method left-handed

Fig. 3

a first embodiment of a panel according to the invention, wherein the panel is shown divided to represent the opposite hook profiles in the not yet locked state,

Fig. 4

the hook profiles of the panel according to Fig. 3 in the locked state,

Fig. 4a

an enlarged detail according to section IVa in Fig. 4

Fig. 4b

an alternative for Fig. 4a

Fig. 5

a further embodiment of hook profiles of the panel according to Fig. 3 in the locked state,

Fig. 5a

an enlarged detail according to section Va in Fig. 5

Fig. 5b

an alternative for Fig. 5a

Fig. 6

a further embodiment of hook profiles of the panel according to Fig. 3 in the locked state,

Fig. 7

a further embodiment of hook profiles of the panel according to Fig. 3 in the locked state,

Fig. 8

a further embodiment of hook profiles of the panel according to Fig. 3 in the locked state,

Fig. 8a

an enlarged detail according to section VIIIa in Fig. 8

Fig. 8b

an alternative for Fig. 8a

Fig. 9

a further embodiment of hook profiles of the panel according to Fig. 3 in the locked state,

Fig. 1 shows a perspective fold-down method for locking panels according to the prior art. In this case, a new panel 1 is angled obliquely with a spring profile edge 2 advanced to a Nutprofilkante 3 of a lying panel 4 a previous row of panels. Subsequently, the new panel 1 is pivoted down into the plane of the assembled panels, wherein in the same row of panels an identical panel 5 already lies. Due to the pivoting joining movement, the tongue and groove edge lock together. The new panel 1 also has a pair of hook profiles, namely a receiving hook (not shown) and a locking hook 6. During the pivoting down joining movement of the locking hook 6 of the new panel 1 is like a scissors in the direction of the complementary receiving hook 7 of the identical panel 5 moves. In this case hooks the locking hook 6 with the receiving hook 7 and at the same time with the locking of tongue and groove profile edge is a positive locking of the hook profiles vonstatten.

According to Fig. 1 the structure of a floor surface is indicated. In this example, a new panel is always applied to the left continuously.

Fig. 2 shows a second example of a known in the art fold-down method for locking panels. It is different from the method of Fig. 1 only in that a new panel must be applied continuously to the right, ie the panel edges, which have the receiving hook or the locking hook are compared to the example of Fig. 1 been swapped.

Tongue and groove profiles, which are suitable for a positive locking by means of the fold-down method, are well known in the art, for example from the WO 97/47834 A1 or off WO 00/63510 ,

Fig. 3 illustrates a first embodiment of a panel 1 according to the invention with a panel top 1a and a panel bottom 1b, wherein simplified only one pair of retaining profile of the panel is shown. The retaining profile pair shown here has complementary hook profiles, namely a locking hook 6 (top) and a receiving hook 7 (bottom). To explain the operation you can imagine the panel 1 cut in two parts, so that the two hook profiles (6 and 7) of the panel can be hooked together. Hook profiles of identical panels are of course locked in the same way.

The receiving hook 6 has a receiving edge 8 directed towards the panel top 1a and a receiving groove 9 which is open towards the panel top. The locking hook 7 is provided with a locking edge 10 directed towards the panel bottom 1b and with a locking groove 11 which is open towards the panel bottom 1b.

An inner side of the receiving edge 8 is facing the receiving groove 9 and this inner side serves as a lower locking surface 12. Fittingly, the locking hook 7 forms an upper locking surface 13 on an inner side of its locking rim 10 facing the locking groove 11, which cooperates with the lower locking surface 12 of the receiving rim 8 ,

It is both the lower locking surface 12 and the upper locking surface 13 each inclined relative to the Lot L on the panel top by an angle α. The inclinations are aligned with each other, so that the corresponding locking surfaces 12 and 13 are aligned in the locked state parallel to each other and can touch.

In addition, the inclination of the lower locking surface 12 is selected so that the normal vector N ₁₂ , which is directed from the lower locking surface 12 perpendicular to the outside, the panel top 1a intersects. Correspondingly, the normal vector N _{13 is} directed vertically outwards on the upper locking surface ₁₃ , so that this normal vector N ₁₃ intersects the opposite panel underside 1 b. General that the Paneeloberseite 1a and the normal vector N ₁₂ enclose an angle which is as large as the above-mentioned angle α (changing angle). Applies, The same applies to the underside of the panel, which includes an equal angle (change angle) with the normal vector N ₁₃ .

With a bottom 10a of the locking edge 10 of the locking hook sits 7 firmly on a groove bottom 9a of the receiving groove 9 of the receiving hook 6. If a load on the panel top 1a presses in the region of the Arretierrands 10, the Arretierrand 10 can carry this load, because its bottom 10a is supported on the groove bottom 9a of the receiving groove 9.

Another function of the hook profiles is to counteract a height offset of the locked panel edges. For this purpose, a lower catch 14 is provided. This comprises on the receiving hook 7, a first locking means in the form of a protruding latching projection 15. The latching projection 15 is arranged on an outer side 8a of the receiving edge 8. Correspondingly, a second latching means in the form of a latching recess 16 is provided on the locking hook 7. The detent recess 16 is arranged on a recessed groove flank 11 a of the locking groove 11.

On the receiving hook 6, a portion 8b of the top of the receiving edge 8 has a downward slope, namely falling in the direction of the outside 8a of the receiving edge. Matching is on the locking hook 7, a portion 11b of the groove bottom of the locking groove 11 adapted in a complementary manner to the inclination of the portion 8b of the top of the receiving edge 8. In the locked state, the inclined sections 8b and 11b of receiving edge top side and Arretiernutgrund aligned parallel to each other.

In addition, a transition from the upper side 8 b of the receiving edge 8 to the lower locking surface 12 is provided on the receiving hook 6. The transition is formed as a curvature 17. The curvature 17 is a radius in the present example. Also, a transition with a curvature 18 between the portion 11 b of the groove bottom of the locking groove 11 and the upper locking surface 13 is provided on the locking hook 7. The curvature 17 on the receiving edge provides an edge protection and a guide surface. The edge protection is stronger than the protective effect a phase which is the same Has width and height, as the curvature 17. The curvature 18 forms a throat. It has a radius in the present example and serves the stability in the transition region from the upper locking surface 13 to the groove bottom of the locking groove eleventh

According to Fig. 4 are the hook profiles made Fig. 3 shown in the locked state. The latching projection 15 of the receiving hook 6, which is arranged on the outer side 8a of the receiving edge 8, engages positively in the latching recess 16, which is arranged on the recessed groove flank 11a of the locking groove 11. The lower catch 14 counteracts a height offset of the two panel tops 1a, ie a movement apart of the panel edges perpendicular to the panel surface is counteracted. A closed joint F also forms in the horizontal direction on the panel surface 1a. An outer side 10b of the arresting edge 10 is in contact with a recessed groove flank 9b of the receiving groove 9 in this joint.

Between the inclined portion 11b of the groove bottom of the locking groove and the inclined portion 8b of the top of the receiving edge 8, a gap 19 is present. This favors it to avoid a height offset at the joint F of the panel top 1a. In addition, the gap 19 provides a certain compliance of the locking hook 7. It has a place with its smallest thickness, which is located where the locking groove 11 is the lowest. The yield obtained by this can be used because the gap 19 creates space in which a deformation can take place.

Fig. 4a shows a detail that enlarges a section that is in Fig. 4 with IVa is noted. In Fig. 4a the locking projection 15 is provided on the receiving hook 6, namely on the outer side 8a of the receiving edge 8. The locking recess is provided on the locking hook 7 and there on a set back Nut flank 11a of the locking groove 11th

In an alternative, which in the clipping according to Fig. 4b is shown, the positions of locking recess and locking projection are reversed. Here, a latching recess 15a is arranged on the receiving hook 6, specifically on the outer side 8a of the receiving edge 8. A latching projection 16a is then provided on the locking hook 7, namely provided on its recessed groove flank 11a of the locking groove 11.

Another embodiment proposes a panel with special hook profiles Fig. 5 in front. This goes from the embodiment of FIGS. 3 and 4 out. From this it differs by an additional upper latching 20. The upper latch 20 has on the locking hook 7, a first locking means in the form of a latching projection 21, which is arranged on the outer side 10b of the Arretierrands 10. It acts together with a corresponding second locking means on the receiving hook 6, which is provided on the set-back groove flank 9b of the receiving groove 9. The second latching means forms a latching recess 22, as best in the cutout according to Fig. 5a can be seen. Fig. 5a magnifies the detail that is in Fig. 5 with Va is designated.

In an alternative, in the clipping according to Fig. 5b is shown, the positions of locking recess and locking projection are reversed. Here, a latching recess 21 a is arranged on the locking hook, namely on the outside of the arresting edge 10. A latching projection 22a is provided on the receiving hook and indeed on the recessed groove flank 9b of the receiving groove. 9

The embodiment of Fig. 6 shows hook profiles, starting from the FIGS. 3 and 4 Have a change and that in the illustrated locked state of the hook profiles a clearance 23 is formed, which extends between the groove bottom 9a of the receiving groove 9 of the receiving hook 6 and a Bottom 10a of the locking edge 10 of the locking hook 7 extends. The free space 23 extends to the outside 10b of the arresting edge 10 or up to the recessed groove flank 9b of the receiving groove 9 zoom. The clearance 23 may receive dirt particles or other loose particles. In the case of wood-based panels, for example, particles can detach from the edge of the panel. Detached should not get between the joining surfaces of the hook profiles and settle there, otherwise they hinder a correct position locking the hook profiles. Between the bottom 10 a of the Arretierrands 10 and the groove bottom 9 a of the receiving groove 9 is the in Fig. 6 proposed space 23 formed gap-shaped. The gap-shaped clearance 23 continues towards the bottom of the groove 9a and in this way creates the desired space for receiving unwanted particles.

The embodiment of Fig. 7 shows hook profiles, which also starting from the FIGS. 3 and 4 have a change in such a way that again in the locked state of the hook profiles a clearance 24 is formed, which extends between the groove bottom 9a of the receiving groove 9 of the receiving hook 6 and a bottom 10a of the Arretierrands 10 of the locking hook 7. The free space 24 extends as far as the lower locking surface 12 of the receiving hook 6 or up to the upper locking surface 13 of the locking hook 7 zoom. In order to create the clearance 24, the bottom 10 a of the Arretierrands 10 is provided with a flat shoulder 24 a, which projects from the bottom 10 a of the Arretierrands 10. The space 24 can also absorb dirt particles or other loose particles and record in panels of wood materials any detached wood particles that would otherwise set between the joining surfaces of the hook profiles and would hinder a positionally correct locking the hook profiles. The remaining portion of the bottom 10a is in the locked state with the groove bottom 9a of the receiving groove 9 in contact and thereby supported.

The embodiment of Fig. 8 also shows hook profiles, by the FIGS. 3 and 4 out. Compared to these figures, only the lower catch 14 has been modified. According to Fig. 8 the locking projection 15 of the receiving hook 6 protrudes further from the outer side 8a of the receiving edge 8 than in FIG Fig. 4 , The depth of the detent recess 16 is opposite Fig. 4 unchanged. This creates a gap 25 between the outside 8a and the set-back groove flank 11a of the locking groove 11 of the locking hook 7. The gap 25 improves the latchability of the lower catch 14th

In Fig. 8a the lower catch 14 is enlarged as a section. An alternative to Fig. 8a shows the clipping according to Fig. 8b , Thereafter, the position of locking recess and locking projection is reversed. A detent recess 15a is now arranged on the receiving hook 6 and that on the outer side 8a of the receiving edge 8. A latching projection 16a is provided for this purpose on the locking hook 7 on its recessed groove flank 11a of the locking groove 11.

Another embodiment of hook profiles of the panel is in Fig. 9 shown. This too is based on the FIGS. 3 and 4 and also integrates all the changes that are made in the examples of Fig. 5, Fig. 6 . FIGS. 7 and 8 were proposed.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

new panel

1a

Paneeloberseite

1b

Paneelunterseite

2

Spring profile edge

3

Nutprofilkante

4

lying panel previous row

5

Panel of the same row of panels

6

receiving hook

7

locking hook

8th

receiving edge

8a

outside

8b

Section top side

9

receiving groove

9a

groove base

9b

recessed groove edge

10

Arretierrand

10a

bottom

10b

outside

11

locking groove

11a

recessed groove edge

11b

Section groove base

12

lower locking surface

13

upper locking surface

14

lower catch

15

catch projection

15a

latching depression

16

latching depression

16a

catch projection

17

curvature

18

curvature

19

gap

20

upper lock

21

catch projection

21a

latching depression

22

latching depression

22a

catch projection

23

free space

24

free space

25

gap

α

corner

F

Gap

Claims (10)

Panels (1, 4, 5) comprising a panel top (1a) and a panel bottom (1b) and at least four panel edges facing each other in pairs with complementary retaining profiles provided in pairs at the panel edges, which mate with each other so that similar panels are attachable to each other, wherein at least one of the retaining profile pairs is provided with hook profiles, namely on a panel edge with a receiving hook (6) and on the opposite edge panel with a locking hook (7), wherein the receiving hook (6) facing the panel top (1a) receiving edge (8) and a receiving groove (9) which is open toward the top of the panel and the locking hook (7) is provided with a locking edge (10) directed towards the underside of the panel (1b) and with a locking groove (11) which is open towards the bottom of the panel (1b), the receiving edge (8) forming a Inner side, which faces the receiving groove (9), and this inner side serves as a lower locking surface (12), un d to match the locking edge (10) has an inner side which faces the locking groove (11), and this inner side serves as a corresponding upper locking surface (13), with the proviso that both the lower locking surface (12) and the upper locking surface (13) is each inclined relative to the solder (L) on the panel top (1a) such that they are in the locked state the inclination of the locking surfaces (12, 13) is selected such that the normal vector (N ₁₂ ) on the lower locking surface (12) intersects the panel top (1a) and the normal vector (N ₁₃ ) on the upper locking surface (13) the panel bottom (1b) intersects, wherein a lower latch (14) is provided, which comprises a first latching means (15, 15a) which is arranged on an outer side (8a) of the receiving edge (8), and the lower latch (14) comprises a corresponding second latching means (16, 16a) which is arranged on a set-back groove flank (11a) of the locking groove (11), wherein at least a portion (8b) of the upper side of the receiving edge (8) in Direction of the outer side (8 a) of the receiving edge (8) is inclined downwards, wherein at least a portion (11 b) of the groove bottom of the locking groove (11) is adapted in a complementary manner to the inclination of the portion (8 b) the top of the receiving edge (8), wherein the body of the panel (1, 4, 5) at least partially made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), wherein a plasticizer in a range of ≥0 wt .-% to ≤20 wt. % is provided, and wherein in the hull calcium carbonate (chalk) in a range of ≥30 wt .-% to ≤70 wt .-% is provided. Panel according to claim 1, characterized in that the first latching means of the lower catch (14) has a latching projection (15), and that the second latching means of the lower latching (14) has a mating latching recess (16). Panel according to claim 1, characterized in that the first locking means of the lower catch (14) has a latching recess (15a), and that the second latching means of the lower latching (14) has a matching latching projection (16a). Panel according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that an upper latch (20) is provided which has on an outer side (10b) of the Arretierrand (10) a first latching means (21,21a), and on a recessed groove edge ( 9b) of the receiving groove (9) has a corresponding second latching means (22, 22a) is provided. Panel according to claim 4, characterized in that the first locking means of the upper latch (20) has a latching projection (21), and that the second latching means of the upper latch (20) has a mating latching recess (21a). Panel according to claim 4, characterized in that the first locking means of the upper latch (20) has a latching recess (21a), and that the second latching means of the upper latch (20) has a mating latching projection (22a). Panel according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that at least one free space (23, 24) between the underside (10a) of the Arretierrand (10) and the groove bottom (9a) of the receiving groove (9) is provided. Panel according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that in the locked state, a gap between the outer side (8a) of the receiving edge (8) and groove flank (11a) of the locking groove (11) is provided. Panel according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the underside (10a) of the Arretierrand (10) in the locked state, at least partially touches the groove bottom (9a) of the receiving groove (9). Panel according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the receiving edge has a transition to the inside of the receiving groove (9), and that the transition is provided with a curvature (17).

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