EP3981931A1 - Panel with hook-shaped locking system - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a panel, comprising a top side and a bottom side of the panel, as well as at least four panel edges, which lie opposite one another in pairs, with complementary holding profiles provided in pairs on the panel edges, which fit together in such a way that panels of the same type can be fastened to one another, with at least one of the pairs of holding profiles being provided with hook profiles is, namely on a panel edge with a receiving hook and on the opposite panel edge with a locking hook.

Description

The invention relates to a panel, comprising a top side and a bottom side of the panel, as well as at least four panel edges, which lie opposite one another in pairs, with complementary holding profiles provided in pairs on the panel edges, which fit together in such a way that panels of the same type can be fastened to one another, with at least one of the pairs of holding profiles being provided with hook profiles is, namely on a panel edge with a receiving hook and on the opposite panel edge with a locking hook.

Such panels are off DE 102011 086846 A famous. More similar panels are in DE 102011 121348 A , WO 2012/001503 A , and WO 03/016654 A disclosed.

Floor coverings, for example, are produced with panels of this type, and such panels are particularly suitable for floor coverings laid in a floating manner. The panels usually have decorative finishes.

The panel to be proposed should be suitable for locking using the "fold-down" method. For this method, a type of panel is used in which one of the pairs of holding profiles is provided with a modified tongue and groove profile, while the other pair of holding profiles 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 tongue profile edge to the groove profile edge of a lying panel or row of panels. Subsequently the new panel is swiveled down to the level of the mounted panels, thereby locking the tongue profile with the groove profile in a form-fitting manner. During the aforementioned pivoting-down movement, a form-fitting locking of the hook profiles is also produced at the same time, because one of the hook profiles moves scissor-like towards the other hook profile and interlocks with it in a form-fitting manner. A locking takes place.

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

In practice it happens that a panel at the end of a row of panels cannot be locked because a wall is in the way and the panel is too long. In order to close the gap in the floor, it is common to cut through a panel, e.g. with a saw, to shorten it to the required length. A new row of panels can usually be started with the leftover piece of the panel that has been cut off. In principle, the complementary retaining profiles of a severed panel always fit into each other. In principle, therefore, complementary retaining profile edges of a severed panel can be locked together.

the WO 01/02670 suggests different pairs of hook profiles. The hook profiles are intended to prevent the panels from being pulled apart horizontally, ie in the panel plane and perpendicular to the interlocked panel edges. However, a load in the said horizontal direction shows that the strength of the hook profiles is unsatisfactory.

More panels with pairs of hook profiles are from the WO 2010/143962 A1 famous. The various embodiments of this prior art suffer from the fact that the pairs of hook profiles can rupture when pulled apart in the plane of the panel and perpendicular to the interlocked panel edges. This happens in particular when the panels are made of artificial wood material, which consists of wood particles or fibers that are bound with a binder to form a panel material.

Therefore, the applicant is looking for a panel with an improved pair of hook profiles.

For this purpose, the invention proposes a panel comprising a panel upper side and a panel lower side as well as at least four panel edges, which are opposite one another in pairs, with complementary holding profiles provided in pairs on the panel edges, which fit together in such a way that panels of the same type can be fastened to one another, with at least one of the Retaining profile pairs are provided with hook profiles, namely on one panel edge with a receiving hook and on the opposite panel edge with a locking hook, the receiving hook having a receiving edge pointing to the top of the panel and a receiving groove open to the top of the panel and the locking hook having a locking edge pointing to the bottom of the panel and a locking hook to Panel underside open locking groove is provided, wherein the receiving edge has an inner side facing the receiving groove, and this inner side serves as a lower locking surface, and matching the locking edge an inner nseite has, which faces the locking groove, and this inner side serves as a corresponding upper locking surface, with the proviso that both the upper locking surface and the lower locking surface are so inclined relative to the plumb line on the top side of the panel is that in the locked state they are aligned parallel to one another and can touch, with the inclination of the locking surfaces being chosen such that the normal vector on the lower locking surface intersects the top of the panel and the normal vector on the upper locking surface intersects the bottom of the panel, with a bottom latching is provided, which comprises a first latching means, which is arranged on an outer side of the receiving edge, and the lower latching comprises a corresponding second latching means, which is arranged on a recessed groove flank of the locking groove, with at least a section of the upper side of the receiving edge in the direction of the Outside of the receiving edge runs inclined downwards, at least a portion of the groove bottom of the locking groove is adapted in a complementary manner to the slope of the top of the receiving edge.

Within the meaning of the invention, the normal vector is directed vertically outwards from the corresponding locking surface (not directed into the panel material). The normal vector encloses an angle with the respective side of the panel that it intersects, which is the same size as the angle by which the locking surfaces are inclined relative to the perpendicular on the top side of the panel (alternating angle). The inclination of the locking surfaces relative to the perpendicular on the top side of the panel can be in an angular range α of 4° to 50°. The angle α is preferably in a range from 5° to 30° and particularly preferably in a range from 5° to 15°.

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

If the body of the panel is at least partially made of a plastic, then an embodiment may consist of a body made of a plastic or of a wood-plastic composite (WPC). The support plate or the body is made, for example, from a thermoplastic, elastomeric or duroplastic material. Furthermore, recycled materials made from the materials mentioned can be used within the scope of the invention. Preference is given to using plate material, in particular made of thermoplastic material such as polyvinyl chloride, polyolefins (e.g. polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyamides (PA), polyurethanes (PU), polystyrene (PS), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) , polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyether ether ketone (PEEK) or mixtures or copolymers. Irrespective of the base material of the carrier plate, plasticizers can be provided, for example, which range from ≥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 includes, for example, the plasticizer sold under the trade name “Dinsch" by BASF. Furthermore, as a substitute for conventional plasticizers, copolymers such as acrylates or methacrylates can be provided.

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 of reducing the production costs.

Such carrier plates are very elastic or springy, which allows a comfortable impression when walking on and can also reduce the noise that occurs when walking on compared to conventional materials, so improved impact sound insulation can be realizable.

In addition, the aforesaid backing plates offer the advantage of good water resistance since they have a swell of 1% or less. Surprisingly, this applies not only to pure plastic carriers but also to WPC materials, as these are explained in detail below.

In a particularly advantageous manner, the material of the carrier plate can include or consist of wood-polymer materials (Wood Plastic Composite, WPC). Here, for example, a wood and a polymer can be suitable, which can be present in a ratio of 40/60 to 70/30, for example 50/50. Polypropylene, polyethylene or a copolymer of the two aforementioned materials can be used as polymeric components. Such materials offer the advantage that they can already be formed into a carrier plate at low temperatures, such as in a range from ≧180° C. to ≦200° C. in the method described above, so that a particularly effective process control, for example with exemplary line speeds in a range of 6m/min, can be made possible. For example, for a WPC product with a 50/50 split of the wood and polymer parts is possible with an exemplary product thickness of 4.1 mm, which can enable a particularly effective manufacturing process.

Furthermore, very stable panels can be produced in this way, which also have a 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 also with regard to impact sound insulation. Furthermore, the aforementioned good water compatibility with a swelling of less than 1% can also be made possible with such WPC materials. WPC materials can have stabilizers and/or other additives, for example, which can preferably be present in the plastic component.

Furthermore, it can be particularly advantageous for the carrier plate to include or consist of a PVC-based material. Such materials can also be used in a particularly advantageous manner for high-quality panels, which can also be used in damp rooms without any problems. Furthermore, PVC-based materials for the carrier plate are also suitable for a particularly effective manufacturing process, since line speeds of about 8 m/min with an exemplary product thickness of 4.1 mm can be possible here, which can enable a particularly effective manufacturing process. Furthermore, such support plates also 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 can be advantageous. Talc or calcium carbonate (chalk), aluminum oxide, silica gel, quartz flour, wood flour, gypsum. For example, chalk can be provided in a range from ≧30% by weight to ≦70% by weight, it being possible for the slippage of the carrier plate in particular to be improved by the fillers, in particular by the chalk. They can also be colored in a known manner. In particular, it can be provided that the material of the support 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 the PE/PP block copolymer and the proportion of the wood 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, thermal 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 board can have wood with a particle size distribution D10 of ≧400 μm. The particle size distribution is based on the volumetric diameter and relates to the volume of the particles. The material of the carrier board is particularly preferably provided as a granulated or pelleted, pre-extruded mixture of a PE/PP block copolymer with wood particles of the specified particle size distribution. The granules and/or the pellets can preferably have a particle size in a range from ≧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. The proportion of the PE/PP polymer blend and the wood content is 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, thermal 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 board can have wood with a particle size distribution D10 of ≧400 μm. The particle size distribution is based on the volumetric diameter and relates to the volume of the particles. The material of the carrier plate is particularly preferably provided as a granulated or pelleted, pre-extruded mixture of a PE/PP polymer blend with wood particles of the specified particle size distribution. The granules and/or the pellets can preferably have a grain size in a range from ≧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 and wood. The proportion of the PP homopolymer and the proportion of wood 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, thermal 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 board can have wood with a particle size distribution D10 of ≧400 μm. The particle size distribution is based on the volumetric diameter and relates to the volume of the particles. The material of the carrier plate is particularly preferably granulated or pelletized pre-extruded mixture of a PP homopolymer with wood particles of the specified particle size distribution provided. The granules and/or the pellets can preferably have a particle size in a range from ≧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 proportion 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, thermal 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 relates to the volume of the particles. The material of the carrier plate is particularly preferably provided as a granulated or pelleted, pre-extruded mixture of a PVC polymer with chalk of the specified particle size distribution. The granules and/or the pellets can preferably have a particle size in a range from ≧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 support plate consists of a mixture of a PVC polymer and wood. The proportion of the PVC polymer and the proportion of wood can be between ≧45% by weight and ≦55% by weight. Furthermore, the material of the carrier plate between ≥0 wt .-% and ≤10 wt .-% of other additives, such as Flow aids, heat stabilizers or UV stabilizers have. 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 board can have wood with a particle size distribution D10 of ≧400 μm. The particle size distribution is based on the volumetric diameter and relates to the volume of the particles. The material of the carrier board is particularly preferably provided as a granulated or pelleted, pre-extruded mixture of a PVC polymer with wood particles of the specified particle size distribution. The granules and/or the pellets can preferably have a particle size in a range from ≧400 μm to ≦10 mm, preferably ≧600 μm to ≦10 mm, in particular ≧800 μm to ≦10 mm.

Generally known methods, such as laser diffractometry, can be used to determine the particle size distribution. With this method, particle sizes in the range from a few nanometers to several millimeters can be determined. It is also possible to determine D50 or D10 values which are 50% or 10% of the measured particles smaller than the given value.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the material of the carrier plate comprises a matrix material comprising a plastic and a solid material, the solid material making up at least 50% by weight, in particular at least 80% by weight, particularly preferably at least 95% by weight. , based on the solid material, is formed by talc. The matrix material is present in an amount, based on the material of the carrier, of ≧30% by weight to ≦70% by weight, in particular from ≧40% by weight to ≦60% by weight and the solid material, based on the material of the carrier, is in an amount, based on the material of the carrier plate, of ≥ 30% by weight to ≤ 70% by weight, in particular from ≥ 40% by weight to ≤ 60% by weight %, for example less than or equal to 50% by weight. Furthermore, it is provided that the material of the carrier plate and the solid material together are present in an amount of ≧95% by weight, in particular ≧99% by weight, based on the material of the carrier plate.

In such an embodiment of the invention, the solid material can be formed by talc to an extent of at least 50% by weight, in particular at least 80% by weight, for example 100%, based on the solid material. Talcum is understood to mean, in a manner known per se, a magnesium silicate hydrate which, for example, can have the chemical molecular formula Mg3[Si4O10(OH)2]. Thus, the solids content is advantageously formed at least for the most part from the mineral substance talc, which substance can be used in powder form or can be present in the material of the carrier plate in the form of particles. In principle, the solid material can consist of a powdered solid.

It can be advantageous if the specific surface density according to BET, ISO 4652 of the talc particles is in a range from ≥ 4 m2/g to ≤ 8 m2/g, for example in a range from ≥ 5 m2/g to ≤ 7 m2/g G.

Furthermore, it can be advantageous if the talc has a bulk density according to DIN 53468 in a range from ≧0.15 g/cm 3 to ≦0.45 g/cm 3 , for example in a range from ≧0.25 g/cm 3 to ≦ 0.35 g/cm3.

The matrix material in such an embodiment of the invention is used in particular in the finished Carrier absorb or embed the solid material. The matrix material has a plastic or a plastic mixture. In particular with regard to the production method, as is described in detail below, it can be advantageous for the matrix material to have a thermoplastic material. This makes it possible for the material of the carrier plate or a component of the material of the carrier plate to have a melting point or a softening point in order to shape the material of the carrier plate in a further process step by the action of heat, as is described in detail below with reference to the process . The matrix material can in particular consist of a plastic or a plastic mixture and optionally an adhesion promoter. These components can preferably make up 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 is present in an amount, based on the material of the carrier plate, of ≧30% by weight to ≦70% by weight, in particular from ≧40% by weight to ≦60% by weight. present. Furthermore, it is provided that the solid material, based on the material of the carrier plate, is present in an amount, based on the material of the carrier plate, of ≧30% by weight to ≦70% by weight, in particular ≧40% by weight. up to ≤ 60% by weight.

Polypropylene is particularly suitable as a matrix material because, on the one hand, it can be obtained inexpensively and, as a thermoplastic, also has good properties as a matrix material for embedding the solid material. A mixture of a homopolymer and a copolymer can be particularly advantageous for the matrix material enable properties. Such materials also offer the advantage that they can be formed into a carrier even at low temperatures, such as in a range from ≥ 180 ° C to ≤ 200 ° C in the method described above, so that a particularly effective process control, such as with exemplary Line speeds in a range of 6m/min can be made possible.

Furthermore, it can be advantageous if the homopolymer has a tensile strength according to ISO 527-2 in a range from ≧30 MPa to ≦45 MPa, for example in a range from ≧35 MPa to ≦40 MPa, in order to achieve good stability 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, for example in a range from ≥ 1500 MPa to ≤ 1700 MPa.

With regard to the tensile deformation of the homopolymer according to ISO 527-2, it can also be advantageous if this is in a range from ≧5% to ≦13%, for example in a range from ≧8% MPa to ≦10%.

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

It can also be advantageous for the solid material to have at least one other solid in addition to talc. This configuration can in particular make it possible for the weight of the material of the carrier plate or one formed with the material of the carrier plate to be reduced Panels compared to a material of the carrier plate or panel, in which the solid material consists of talc, can be significantly reduced. Thus, the solid added to the solid material can in particular have a reduced density compared to talc. For example, the added substance can have a bulk density in a range of ≦2000 kg/m3, in particular ≦1500 kg/m3, for example ≦1000 kg/m3, particularly preferably ≦500 kg/m3. Depending on the added solid, further adaptability to the desired, in particular mechanical, properties can also be made possible.

For example, the further solid can 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 can be, for example, the solid used by the company Xella under the brand name YTONG, which essentially consists of quartz sand, lime and cement, or the aerated concrete can have the aforementioned components. With regard to the added solid, this can, for example, be made up of particles which have the same particle size or particle size distribution as the particle sizes or particle size distributions described above for talc. The other solids can 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, located.

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

According to a further embodiment, the material of the carrier plate can have hollow microspheres. Such additives can in particular have the effect that the density of the carrier board and thus of the panel produced can be significantly reduced, so that a particularly simple and cost-effective transport and furthermore a particularly comfortable laying can be ensured. In particular, the insertion of hollow microspheres can ensure stability of the panel produced, which is not significantly reduced in comparison to a material without hollow microspheres. Thus, the stability is completely sufficient for the majority of applications. Hollow microspheres can be understood in particular as meaning structures which have a hollow base body and have a size or a maximum diameter which is in the micrometer range. For example, usable hollow spheres can have a diameter in the range from ≧5 μm to ≦100 μm, for example ≧20 μm to ≦50 μm. In principle, any material, such as glass or ceramic, can be used as the material for the hollow microspheres. Furthermore, due to the weight, plastics, such as the plastics used in the material of the carrier plate, such as PVC, PE or PP, can be advantageous, and these can be prevented from deforming during the manufacturing process, for example by suitable additives.

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

The section of the groove base of the locking groove and the section the upper side of the receiving edge can be aligned parallel to one another in the locked state.

The receiving groove of one hook profile is designed 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 designed such that the receiving edge of one hook profile fits into the locking groove.

A 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 matching latching depression.

Alternatively, the first latching means of the lower latching can have a latching recess and the second latching means of the lower latching can have a matching latching projection.

It can also be useful if an upper catch is provided, which has a first catch means on an outside of the locking edge, and a corresponding second catch means is provided on a recessed groove flank of the receiving groove.

Expediently, the first latching means of the upper latching has a latching projection and the second latching means of the upper latching has a matching latching depression.

Alternatively, the first latching means of the upper latching can have a latching recess and the second latching means of the upper latching can have a matching latching projection.

A further benefit results if at least one free space is provided between the underside of the locking edge and the bottom of the receiving groove. The free space can absorb dirt particles or other loose particles. In the case of panels made of wood-based materials, for example, particles can escape from the panel edge detach, which should not get stuck between the joint surfaces of the hook profiles. Otherwise they could prevent the hook profiles from locking in the correct position.

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

In the locked state, an underside of the locking edge advantageously touches the bottom of the receiving groove at least in some areas. If a load presses on the upper side of the panel in the area of the locking edge, the locking edge can bear this load because its underside is supported on the groove base of the receiving groove of the receiving hook.

The receiving edge expediently has a transition to the inside of the receiving groove, with the transition being curved. The curvature provides edge protection. It can also serve to guide the locking rim as it comes into contact with the curve. In this way, the locking edge is moved down along the curve 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 below by way of example in a drawing and described in detail using a number of exemplary embodiments. Show it:

1

fold-down method right-handed

2

fold-down method left-handed

3

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

4

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

Figure 4a

an enlarged detail according to section IVa in 4

Figure 4b

an alternative for Figure 4a

figure 5

a further exemplary embodiment for hook profiles of the panel according to FIG 3 in the locked state,

Figure 5a

an enlarged detail according to section Va in figure 5

Figure 5b

an alternative for Figure 5a

6

a further exemplary embodiment for hook profiles of the panel according to FIG 3 in the locked state,

7

a further exemplary embodiment for hook profiles of the panel according to FIG 3 in the locked state,

8

a further exemplary embodiment for hook profiles of the panel according to FIG 3 in the locked state,

Figure 8a

an enlarged detail according to section VIIIa in 8

Figure 8b

an alternative for Figure 8a

9

a further exemplary embodiment for hook profiles of the panel according to FIG 3 in the locked state,

1 Figure 12 shows a prior art perspective fold-down method of interlocking panels. In this case, a new panel 1 is brought at an angle with a tongue profile edge 2 in front to a groove profile edge 3 of a lying panel 4 of a previous row of panels. Then the new panel 1 is mounted in the plane Panels swung down, with an identical panel 5 already lying in the same row of panels. The pivoting joining movement locks the tongue and groove profile edges together. The new panel 1 also has a pair of hook profiles, namely a receiving hook (not shown) and a locking hook 6 . The locking hook 6 catches with the receiving hook 7 and at the same time as the tongue and groove profile edge is locked, a positive locking of the hook profiles takes place.

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

2 Figure 12 shows a second example of a prior art fold-down method of interlocking panels. It differs from the method of 1 only in that a new panel has to be created continuously to the right, ie the panel edges that have the receiving hook or the locking hook are compared to the example of FIG 1 been swapped.

Tongue and groove profiles that are suitable for positive locking using the fold-down method are well known in the prior art, for example from WO 97/47834 A1 or off WO 00/63510 .

3 shows a first exemplary embodiment of a panel 1 according to the invention with a panel upper side 1a and a panel lower side 1b, only one holding profile pair of the panel being shown in simplified form. The holding profile pair shown here has complementary hook profiles, viz a locking hook 6 (above) and a receiving hook 7 (below). In order to explain how it works, the panel 1 can be imagined as being divided into 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 top side 1a of the panel and a receiving groove 9 open towards the top side of the panel.

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

Both the lower locking surface 12 and the upper locking surface 13 are each inclined at an angle α with respect to the perpendicular L on the upper side of the panel. The inclinations are matched to one another, so that the corresponding locking surfaces 12 and 13 are aligned parallel to one another in the locked state and can touch one another.

In addition, the inclination of the lower locking surface 12 is chosen such that the normal vector N ₁₂ , which is directed perpendicularly outwards from the lower locking surface 12, intersects the panel top side 1a. Conversely, the normal vector N ₁₃ is directed perpendicularly outwards on the upper locking surface 13, so that this Normal vector N ₁₃ intersects the opposite panel underside 1b. In general, the panel top 1a and the normal vector N ₁₂ enclose an angle that is just as large as the above-mentioned angle α (alternating angle). The same applies to the underside of the panel, which encloses an equally large angle (alternating angle) with the normal vector N ₁₃ .

With an underside 10a of the locking edge 10, the locking hook 7 sits firmly on a groove base 9a of the receiving groove 9 of the receiving hook 6. If a load is pressed on the top side of the panel 1a in the area of the locking edge 10, the locking edge 10 can carry this load because its underside 10a is on the groove bottom 9a of the receiving groove 9 is supported.

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

At the receiving hook 6, a portion 8b of the top of the receiving rim 8 has a downward slope, namely falling towards the outside 8a of the receiving rim. A section 11b of the bottom of the locking groove 11 is adapted to this on the locking hook 7 in a complementary manner to the inclination of the section 8b of the top side of the receiving edge 8. In the locked state, the inclined sections 8b and 11b of the top side of the receiving edge and the bottom of the locking groove are aligned parallel to one another.

In addition, a transition from the upper side 8b of the receiving edge 8 to the lower locking surface 12 is provided on the receiving hook 6 . The transition is designed as a bend 17 . The curvature 17 is a radius in the present example. A transition with a curvature 18 between the section 11b of the groove base of the locking groove 11 and the upper locking surface 13 is also provided on the locking hook 7 . The curvature 17 on the receiving edge offers edge protection and a guide surface. The edge protection is stronger than the protective effect of a phase having the same width and height as the curve 17. The curve 18 forms a valley. In the present example, it has a radius and is used for stability in the transition area from the upper locking surface 13 to the bottom of the locking groove 11.

According to 4 the hook profiles are off 3 shown in locked condition. The locking projection 15 of the receiving hook 6, which is arranged on the outside 8a of the receiving edge 8, engages in a form-fitting manner in the locking 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 top sides 1a of the panel, ie a movement apart of the panel edges perpendicularly to the panel surface is counteracted. A closed joint F is also formed in the horizontal direction on the panel surface 1a. At this joint, an outer side 10b of the locking edge 10 is in contact with a recessed groove flank 9b of the receiving groove 9.

A gap 19 is present between the inclined section 11b of the bottom of the locking groove and the inclined section 8b of the upper side of the receiving edge 8 . This favors a height offset at the joint F of the top side of the panel 1a to avoid. In addition, the gap 19 allows a certain resilience of the locking hook 7. It has a point with its smallest thickness, which is where the locking groove 11 is deepest. The flexibility gained in this way can be used because the gap 19 creates space into which deformation can take place.

Figure 4a shows a detail that enlarges a section that is in 4 is marked with IVa. In Figure 4a the locking projection 15 is provided on the receiving hook 6, namely on the outside 8a of the receiving edge 8. The locking recess is provided on the locking hook 7 and there on a recessed groove flank 11a of the locking groove 11.

In an alternative, which is shown in detail in accordance with Figure 4b is shown, the positions of the locking recess and locking projection are reversed. Here, a latching recess 15a is arranged on the receiving hook 6, specifically on the outside 8a of the receiving edge 8. A latching projection 16a is then provided on the locking hook 7, namely on its recessed flank 11a of the locking groove 11.

Another embodiment of a panel with special hook profiles suggests figure 5 in front. This is from the embodiment of Figures 3 and 4 out of. It differs from this by an additional upper catch 20. The upper catch 20 has on the locking hook 7 a first locking means in the form of a locking projection 21, which is arranged on the outside 10b of the locking edge 10. It interacts with a corresponding second latching means on the receiving hook 6, which is provided on the recessed groove flank 9b of the receiving groove 9. The second latching means forms a latching recess 22, as best seen in FIG Figure 5a can be seen. Figure 5a enlarged the detail that in figure 5 is denoted by Va.

In the case of an alternative shown in the excerpt according to Figure 5b is shown, the positions of the locking recess and locking projection are reversed. Here is a locking recess 21a on the locking hook, namely on the outside of the locking edge 10 is arranged. A latching projection 22a is provided on the receiving hook, specifically on the set-back groove flank 9b of the receiving groove 9.

The embodiment of 6 shows hook profiles starting from the Figures 3 and 4 have a change and that is in the shown locked state of the hook profiles a free space 23 is formed, which extends between the groove base 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. The free space 23 extends up to the outside 10b of the locking edge 10 or up to the set-back groove flank 9b of the receiving groove 9 . The free space 23 can accommodate dirt particles or other loose particles. In the case of panels made of wood-based materials, for example, particles can detach from the panel edge. Detached parts should not get between the joining surfaces of the hook profiles and get stuck there, because otherwise they would prevent the hook profiles from locking in the correct position. The in 6 proposed free space 23 in the form of a gap. The gap-shaped free space 23 widens towards the bottom of the groove 9a and in this way creates the desired space for receiving unwanted particles.

The embodiment of 7 shows hook profiles, which are also based on the Figures 3 and 4 have a change in such a way that turn in the locked state of the hook profiles, a free space 24 is formed, which extends between the groove bottom 9a of the receiving groove 9 of the receiving hook 6 and an underside 10a of the locking edge 10 of the locking hook 7. The free space 24 extends up to the lower locking surface 12 of the receiving hook 6 or up to the upper locking surface 13 of the locking hook 7 . In order to create the clearance 24, the underside 10a of the locking rim 10 is provided with a flat shoulder 24a which projects from the underside 10a of the locking rim 10. The free space 24 can also absorb dirt particles or other loose particles and, in the case of panels made of wood-based materials, absorb any detached wood particles that would otherwise become lodged between the joining surfaces of the hook profiles and prevent the hook profiles from locking in the correct position. In the locked state, the remaining area of the underside 10a is in contact with the groove base 9a of the receiving groove 9 and is supported thereby.

The embodiment of 8 also shows hook profiles used by the Figures 3 and 4 go out. Compared to these figures, only the lower catch 14 has been modified. According to 8 the locking projection 15 of the receiving hook 6 protrudes further from the outside 8a of the receiving edge 8 than in 4 . The depth of the detent recess 16 is opposite 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 ability of the lower catch 14 to latch.

In Figure 8a the lower catch 14 is enlarged as a detail. An alternative to Figure 8a shows the excerpt according to Figure 8b . Thereafter, the position of the locking recess and locking projection is reversed. A locking recess 15a is now on the receiving hook 6, specifically on the outside 8a of the Recording edge 8 arranged. A latching projection 16a is provided for this purpose on the locking hook 7 on its recessed flank 11a of the locking groove 11 .

Another embodiment of the hook profile of the panel is in 9 shown. This is also based on the Figures 3 and 4 and also incorporates all the changes made in the examples from Figure 5, Figure 6 , 7 and 8 were suggested.

Reference List

1

new panel

1a

panel top

1b

panel underside

2

spring profile edge

3

groove profile edge

4

lying panel previous row

5

panel of the same row of panels

6

pick-up hook

7

locking hook

8th

recording edge

8a

outside

8b

section top

9

receiving groove

9a

groove bottom

9b

recessed groove flank

10

locking rim

10a

bottom

10b

outside

11

locking groove

11a

recessed groove flank

11b

Section of groove bottom

12

lower locking surface

13

upper locking surface

14

lower latch

15

locking projection

15a

detent recess

16

detent recess

16a

locking projection

17

curvature

18

curvature

19

gap

20

upper latch

21

locking projection

21a

detent recess

22

detent recess

22a

locking projection

23

free space

24

free space

25

gap

a

angle

f

Gap

Claims (13)

Panels (1, 4, 5) comprising a top side (1a) and a bottom side (1b) of a panel, as well as at least four panel edges, which lie opposite one another in pairs, with complementary holding profiles provided in pairs on the panel edges, which fit together in such a way that panels of the same type can be fastened to one another, at least one of the pairs of retaining profiles being provided with hook profiles, namely with a receiving hook (6) on one panel edge and with a locking hook (7) on the opposite panel edge, the receiving hook (6) having a receiving edge (8) directed towards the top side (1a) of the panel and has a receiving groove (9) open to the top side of the panel and the locking hook (7) is provided with a locking edge (10) directed towards the underside (1b) of the panel and with a locking groove (11) open towards the underside (1b) of the panel, the receiving edge (8) having a Has inner side, which faces the receiving groove (9), and this inner side serves as a lower locking surface (12), and daz u suitably the locking rim (10) has an inner side facing 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) opposite the perpendicular (L) on the top of the panel (1a) is inclined in such a way that they are aligned parallel to one another in the locked state and can touch one another, the inclination of the locking surfaces (12, 13) being chosen such that the normal vector (N ₁₂ ) on the lower locking surface (12) is the intersects the top side (1a) of the panel and the normal vector (N ₁₃ ) on the top locking surface (13) intersects the bottom side (1b) of the panel, with (i) a bottom catch (14) being provided which comprises a first catch 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 recessed groove flank (11a) of the locking groove (11) and /or (ii) an upper catch (20) is provided which has a first catch means (21, 21a) on an outside (10b) of the locking edge (10) and on a set-back groove flank (9b) of the receiving groove (9). corresponding between a further latching means (22, 22a) is provided; and wherein at least a portion (8b) of the top of the receiving rim (8) slopes downwards towards the outside (8a) of the receiving rim (8), wherein at least a portion (11b) of the groove bottom is adapted to the locking groove (11) in a complementary manner to the slope of the portion (8b) of the top of the receiving edge (8). Panel according to claim 1, characterized in that the first latching means of the lower latch (14) has a latching projection (15) and that the second latching means of the lower latch (14) has a mating latching recess (16). Panel according to claim 1, characterized in that that the first latching means of the lower latch (14) has a latching recess (15a), and that the second latching means of the lower latch (14) has a matching latching projection (16a). Panel according to one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the first latching means of the upper latch (20) has a latching projection (21) and the second latching means of the upper latch (20) has a mating latching recess (21a). Panel according to one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the first latching means of the upper latch (20) has a latching recess (21a) and the second latching means of the upper latch (20) has a mating latching projection (22a). Panel according to one of Claims 1 to 5, characterized in that at least one free space (23, 24) is provided between the underside (10a) of the locking edge (10) and the groove base (9a) of the receiving groove (9). Panel according to one of Claims 1 to 6, characterized in that in the locked state there is a gap between the outside (8a) of the receiving edge (8) and the flank (11a) of the locking groove (11). Panel according to one of Claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the underside (10a) of the locking edge (10) in the locked state at least partially covers the groove base (9a) of the receiving groove (9) touched. Panel according to one of Claims 1 to 8, 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 curve (17). Panel according to one of Claims 1 to 9, characterized in that there is a gap (19) between the inclined section (11b) of the groove base of the locking groove (11) and the inclined section (8b) of the upper side of the receiving edge (8). Panel according to one of Claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the locking hook (7) has a point with the smallest thickness where the locking groove (11) is deepest. Panel according to one of Claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the free space (23) is in the form of a gap and widens towards the bottom of the groove (9a). Panel according to any one of Claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the first latching means (15) is spaced from the inclined portion (8b) of the upper side of the receiving edge (8).

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