EP4112814A1 - Modular floor covering - Google Patents

Abstract

A connection system for the reversible connection of floor covering segments to form a floor covering, in particular a construction road, wherein the connection system has a first connection element which has a tongue for producing a tongue-and-groove connection or sheet piling connection, wherein the connection system has a second connection element which has a groove for at least partially receiving the tongue for producing the tongue-and-groove connection or sheet piling connection, wherein the first connection element has at least one first form-locking element and the second connection element outside the groove has at least one second form-locking element corresponding to the first form-locking element, and wherein the connection system is designed such that the form-locking elements, when the tongue is at least partially inserted into the groove, form a form-locking connection by inclining the connection elements towards one another, which form-locking blocks a translational movement of the tongue out of the groove.

Description

The present invention relates to floor coverings, in particular floor coverings of modular construction, intended for temporary use and particularly preferably drivable by motor vehicles. In particular, the present invention relates to mobile construction roads. In the context of the present invention, mobile site roads are to be understood as meaning floor coverings that can be driven on by motor vehicles, in particular trucks and construction vehicles, and which are mobile insofar as they can be laid, for example to set up a construction site, and then dismantled and reused.

In particular, the present invention relates in this context to a connection system for the reversible connection of floor covering segments to form a floor covering, in particular a site road, a floor covering segment to form the floor covering, in particular the site road, a floor covering having a plurality of floor covering segments and a method for producing a floor covering, in particular one construction road.

A floor covering within the meaning of the present invention can be used in particular as a floor protection system or forms a floor protection system. This is in particular a system for avoiding or reducing soil compaction or other soil damage such as lane formation by vehicles. For this purpose, the proposed floor covering can form an at least essentially uniform, level surface for load distribution. The proposed floor covering is therefore particularly suitable as a transport route, for forming construction site access roads, for forming path widenings, but also as an assembly platform, storage area and/or for stage construction or floor protection at events. Alternatively or additionally, the floor covering can be used to protect sensitive surfaces such as cobblestones, lawns or the like, directly or in combination with an underlay that is arranged between the floor covering and the floor or the surface of the earth or other supporting surface or can also be part of the floor can.

Floor coverings of the type in question are usually formed from several floor covering segments by connecting them. In order to enable reuse and/or dismantling, the floor covering segments are preferably reversibly connected to one another.

the EP 1 950 349 B1 relates in this context to a connecting element for floor covering segments, in which a connector protrudes laterally from the connecting element and can be inserted into a connecting channel of an adjacent connecting element and can be screwed there.

the EP 3 401 441 B1 relates to a floor covering formed from floor covering segments which are hooked into one another by end hooks.

the U.S. 2007/0079569 A1 relates to a surface covering for protecting surfaces such as ice in an ice hockey rink, artificial turf in a stadium, or grass. The surface covering is formed by identically designed panels that are positively connected to one another by a connection system.

It has been shown that the use of lateral connectors, in particular due to the necessary screw connection, leads to considerable assembly work and difficulties during assembly under adverse circumstances that are often encountered, such as muddy, sandy, jagged ground. This also applies to hook systems in which even small amounts of foreign material penetrating a hook connection running the full length of the respective floor covering segments requires cleaning measures during assembly so that the floor covering segments can be hooked into one another, which means that both the laying of the floor covering segments, i.e. the formation of the floor covering, expensive as well as a reuse of the floor covering segments are made more difficult.

The object of the present invention is therefore to specify a connection system for the reversible connection of floor covering segments to form a floor covering, in particular a site road, a floor covering segment, a floor covering, or a method for producing a floor covering, in particular a temporary site road, whereby a more reliable, more efficient and/or enabling faster production and/or reuse of the flooring.

The present object is achieved by a connection system according to claim 1, a floor covering segment according to claim 11, a floor covering according to claim 12 or a method for producing a floor covering according to claim 13 solved. Advantageous developments are the subject of the subclaims.

A first aspect of the present invention relates to a proposed connection system that is suitable for the reversible connection of floor covering segments to form the floor covering.

The connection system has two connection elements. The connecting elements are suitable for enabling floor covering segments to be connected. For this purpose, a floor covering segment can have at least one connecting element, preferably along one edge, preferably two corresponding or complementary connecting elements on preferably opposite edges.

In this case, a first connecting element has a tongue for producing a tongue and groove connection or bung connection.

The proposed connection system also has a second connection element, which has a groove for at least partially accommodating the tongue to produce the connection, ie the tongue and groove connection or bung connection.

A tongue and groove connection is a connection in which a preferably front-side groove of a flat structure is provided on the one hand and a web-like structure corresponding to the groove on the other hand, which can be inserted into one another to create a connection. The tongue in the form of the web-like structure can therefore be inserted into the groove, as a result of which the connection can be established. The same is the case with a bung connection, with the tongue being otherwise connected or formed in one piece with the structure to be connected, i.e. in this case with the floor covering segment, while in the case of a tongue and groove connection, adjacent floor covering segments can each have a groove, and the tongue in engages the respective grooves to make the connection. In the following, the invention is primarily explained in more detail using a bung connection. Even if not explicitly discussed, the present invention can also be applied to a tongue and groove connection in a corresponding manner.

According to the proposal, the first connecting element has a first positive-locking element and the second connecting element outside the groove has at least one second positive-locking element corresponding to the first positive-locking element. The form-fitting elements are designed to form a form-fitting connection with one another. The connection system is designed so that the form-fitting elements form a form-fitting connection when the tongue is at least partially inserted into the groove by tilting the connecting elements relative to one another, which form-fitting blocks a translational movement of the tongue out of the groove.

In other words, the proposed connection system combines a connection of a groove and corresponding tongue on the one hand with form-fitting elements, through which the connection formed with the groove and tongue is secured against loosening (preferably reversible).

The use of a connection technique in which a tongue is pushed into a groove has proven to be particularly advantageous in connection with the preferred application. In this way, the connecting elements do not become clogged with foreign material, or not so quickly, and should this nevertheless be the case, the proposed connecting system has proven to be easy and quick to clean. The formation of the form-fit with the form-fitting elements can be done without screws—in particular as a lock—which advantageously helps to avoid problems with clogged threads.

The connection is preferably secured with the connecting elements inclined towards one another, which in terms of the movement sequence may in principle be similar to the connection by means of a hook system. Advantageously, this enables quick, easy and safe assembly, but the use of the proposed connection system avoids the disadvantages of a hook connection, in particular the tendency to get into undercuts of the hook geometry, even with slight dirt, and the difficulties associated with this to avoid assembly or cleaning requirements, especially if, as is preferred, the groove and/or tongue is/are designed completely without undercuts.

The form-fitting elements preferably form a locking of the connection formed with the groove and the tongue. Here it can be provided that one of the form-fitting elements is a bolt and another of the form-fitting elements is or has a receptacle corresponding to the bolt, in particular an opening corresponding to the bolt. The form fit can be formed by receiving the bolt in the receptacle or in the opening. For this purpose, when the connecting elements are inclined towards one another, the bolt can be pushed into the receptacle, in particular the opening, which forms a positive locking to the effect that a translatory removal of the spring from the groove is blocked as a result.

For disassembly or dismantling, the form fit can preferably be reversed by tilting the connecting elements to one another in such a way that the form fit elements disengage, i.e. in particular the bolt from the receptacle or the opening (due to the inclination or pivoting movement) is removed, whereupon the spring is moved out of the groove again and the connection as a whole can be separated.

When partially pushed into the groove, the tongue preferably has so much play in the groove that the connecting elements can be pivoted relative to one another between a first position, in which the form-fitting elements are separated from one another, and a second position, in which the form-fitting elements form the form-fitting connection . It is therefore possible and preferably provided that the tongue is first at least partially pushed into the groove before the form-fitting elements form the form-fitting connection by pivoting the connecting elements relative to one another and thus block the removal of the tongue from the groove.

For this purpose, the tongue can have sufficient play in the groove, so that the tongue can initially be inserted slightly obliquely or inclined (partly) into an opening of the groove and with progressive inclination of the connecting elements to one another, the positive connection can be formed by the positive connection elements on the one hand and on the other hand the spring can be pushed further into the groove.

As a result, the connection is preferably made by a pivoting movement, in which the inclination of the connecting elements to one another is combined with a translational movement of the tongue into the groove in order to create the connection and secure it by means of the form-fitting elements; or the connection system is designed to do so.

In other words, it is provided that the tongue has so little play in the groove that the connecting elements, starting from a position of the connecting elements relative to one another in which the form-fitting elements have the form-fit, must be rotated relative to one another in order to break the form-fit so that the connecting elements can be separated are solvable again. In contrast, when a form fit is formed, a separation of the connecting elements by a translatory movement is blocked. The form fit thus blocks the tongue from being pulled out of the groove.

The form-fitting elements and preferably also the groove together with the tongue preferably still have a certain amount of play after the formation of the form-fitting connection in order to compensate for mobility of the connecting elements for the purpose of compensating for unevenness in the floor or other supporting surface provided when laying under the floor covering and/or by a certain amount To enable the formation of radii.

It is preferred that the form-fitting elements after formation of the form-fit play of preferably more than two millimeters, in particular more than five or ten millimeters and / or more than 0.2%, preferably more than 0.4%, the length of the groove, the Have spring or a longitudinal extension of the respective connecting element.

A longitudinal extension of one of the connecting elements is preferably an extension along or parallel to the groove or tongue. In practice, the connecting elements are elongate profiles which, after the floor covering segments have been laid or after the floor has been formed, run transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to a longitudinal extension of the floor. Using the example of a site road, the grooves, tongues and/or connecting elements run at least essentially perpendicularly to a main direction of extent of the floor covering or site road. Certain deviations due to torsion and/or the formation of radii by means of play are possible here.

The play of the form-fitting elements with respect to one another is preferably such that the spring cannot leave the groove in any position of the form-fitting elements when a form-fitting connection is formed with respect to one another. However, the tongue can be moved within the groove as far as the play of the form-fitting elements allows this. Surprisingly, this has led to several advantages. On the one hand remains a certain twistability of the connecting elements to one another and/or within certain limits a radius can be set by several connecting systems arranged one behind the other or floor covering elements provided with them.

On the other hand, the play enables the connection to be established by means of the connecting elements even in the case in which certain impurities are present in the area of the positive-locking elements. These can be repressed due to the game. This applies in particular to the preferred embodiment of the positive-locking elements formed by a bolt and an opening. If the bolt is pushed into the opening for the purpose of forming a form fit, any impurities can be ejected through the opening by means of the bolt. In this respect, the connection system is self-cleaning and, as a result, particularly robust and less prone to errors.

The tongue and/or the groove is/are preferably free of undercuts. In particular, these are therefore not hook-shaped or have hook-like sections. In the case of the tongue, this applies in any case to the section that can be inserted into the groove, even if the tongue continues beyond this. In the case of the groove, the same applies to the section that the tongue can occupy in the groove while the form-locking connection is formed with the form-locking elements. By avoiding undercuts, compared to hook-based systems, the accumulation of contaminants and the blockage of the connection mechanism is therefore unlikely, and even if contaminants should have accumulated, they can be easily removed by the at least essentially undercut-free structures or detach themselves.

The groove preferably has walls delimiting the groove, which walls are preferably opposite one another and can at least partially run at least essentially parallel.

A first of the groove-delimiting walls can have a free edge that terminates with a groove mouth of the groove. In other words, this wall ends at the level of the mouth of the groove. On the other side, that is to say on the side of the groove facing away from the free edge, a second wall which is opposite the first wall and delimits the groove can be provided. This second wall preferably has a first portion delimiting the groove and a second section, which is continued outside the groove or is provided on the side of the groove mouth facing away from the groove. The second section preferably carries the (first) positive-locking element. Conversely, the positive-locking element is therefore arranged or provided outside of the groove.

It is particularly preferred that several first positive-locking elements and corresponding second positive-locking elements are provided over the extension along the groove or tongue. In particular, a plurality of bolts are provided on one of the connecting elements and a plurality of receptacles or openings are provided on the other of the connecting elements, specifically at positions corresponding to one another in such a way that the connection can be formed as described above. However, it is also possible for the same connecting element to have bolts and receptacles/openings, for example alternately, and preferably for a further connecting element to be designed to complement this.

The arrangement of the form-fitting elements outside the mouth of the groove or correspondingly also outside the area that is arranged in the groove when the form-fitting connection is formed by the tongue, in other words in general the spatial separation of the connection between groove and tongue on the one hand and the form-fitting connection for blocking or Locking this connection, on the other hand, advantageously enables the connection elements to be connected in a particularly simple, rapid and robust manner, or a corresponding formation of the floor from floor covering segments by means of the connection elements of the connection system.

The clear width of the groove can be widened in the direction of the opening at least on the side of the free edge, for example by a rounded widening of the groove in the direction of the opening, in order to simplify a pivoting movement of the connecting elements to form the connection of the connecting elements.

Alternatively or additionally, the second section (of the connecting element that has the groove) can form a support, in particular a stepped or raised support surface (protruding in relief compared to the adjacent surface) for the first connecting element. This support can be formed by a projection opposite an alignment of the surface of the second wall of the groove in the first section. In other words, a support can be provided diagonally opposite the free edge outside of the groove, which leads to the tongue laying several floor covering elements on a flat surface Surface play to the second wall within the groove occupies or has. Correspondingly, the floor covering produced with the proposed connection system can advantageously follow certain inclinations of the floor in different directions.

Provision can be made for the groove to have a depth which exceeds the maximum insertion depth of the spring (when the form-locking elements are formed). In other words, when the tongue is pushed as far as possible into the groove, play can be provided between a tongue end face and the groove bottom lying opposite it. This play, or the space formed in the case of the tongue pushed into the groove, can function as a dirt-receiving space, that is, it can absorb any contaminants. Accordingly, a fully functional and reliable connection can be produced with the proposed connection system even with certain contaminations.

The combination of the play between the tongue end face and the groove base on the one hand and between the form-fitting elements on the other hand is particularly advantageous, since a proposed connection system with a combination of these measures has proven to be particularly robust and reliable even under adverse conditions. Because both the connection formed by the tongue and groove and the form fit securing this have been shown to be fully functional even in the case of gross contamination, which applies accordingly to the connection system as a whole.

The connecting elements are preferably extruded profiles. The connecting elements can be made of aluminum. In particular, it is therefore aluminum extruded profiles. They can have one or more (continuous) hollow chambers. The connecting elements are therefore in particular hollow chamber extruded profiles. Here, the hollow chamber can be separated or supported by one or more webs. In any case, the connecting elements are preferably web plates or have web plates in corresponding sections. In principle, however, other manufacturing methods or technologies for forming the connecting elements are also conceivable.

The connecting elements preferably have a profile on the side facing away from the tongue or groove for fastening one or more planks. In particular, it is a hook profile for inserting a plank. One or multiple planks may be interposed between a first connector comprising the tongue and the second connector comprising the groove to form a flooring segment. In principle, however, a floor covering segment can also be formed from a rigid or other type of panel, on which the first and second connecting element is/are arranged, fastened or formed on preferably opposite sides.

A further aspect of the present invention relates to a floor covering segment formed from a first connection element of the connection system and a second connection element of the connection system, preferably on opposite sides of the floor covering segment. One or more planks are particularly preferably arranged between the connecting elements. In this way, the proposed connecting elements of the connecting system edges of the floor covering segment can form, while one or more planks are provided between the connecting elements, which are connected to each other and to the connecting elements, so that overall a plate-shaped floor covering segment is formed that on opposite sides the first connecting element on the one hand and carries the second connecting element on the other hand, each with an outwardly facing tongue or groove for the purpose of connecting floor covering segments to one another. First and second connecting elements of adjacent floor covering segments therefore form a proposed connecting system.

A further aspect of the present invention that can also be implemented independently relates to a floor covering which has a plurality of proposed floor covering segments which are each connected to one another by a first connecting element and a second connecting element of the proposed connecting system.

Furthermore, the present invention relates to a further aspect that can also be implemented independently, a method for producing the floor covering, in particular in the form of a temporary site road, on a floor. At least one first floor covering segment located on the floor (i.e. aligned essentially parallel to the floor and supported on the floor) is connected to another floor covering segment in that the tongue of the second floor covering segment, which is initially inclined relative to the floor covering segment lying on the floor, fits into the groove of the first (floor covering segment lying on the floor is (partially) inserted or pushed in and (subsequently) by pivoting the second floor covering segment to the first floor covering segment or to the floor/surface of the earth), the form-fitting elements of the connecting elements, of which the tongue is partially pushed into the groove, are brought into a form-fitting fit, whereby the separation of the floor covering segments with a translatory relative movement (i.e. by pulling apart) is blocked.

After the connection has been established, the floor covering segments are arranged at least essentially in alignment with one another or follow a floor which is at least essentially flat underneath and in this way form surface floor protection. By connecting several floor covering segments, a site road can be formed accordingly. After the end of use, the floor covering segments can be separated from one another and moved again particularly efficiently, since both assembly and disassembly can be carried out without tools. For dismantling, the floor covering segments only have to incline towards one another again, as a result of which the interlocking elements disengage and the spring is pulled out of the groove and the floor covering segment that has been loosened in this way can be transported away individually or together with other floor covering segments.

Fig. 1

eine schematische seitliche Ansicht vorschlagsgemäßer Bodenbelagselemente mittels des vorschlagsgemäßen Verbindungssystems;

Fig. 2

eine Aufsicht des vorschlagsgemäßen Bodenbelags;

Fig. 3

ein Schnitt des vorschlagsgemäßen Bodenbelags gemäß der Schnittlinie III-III aus Fig. 2;

Fig. 4A

einen Ausschnitt der Bodenbelagselemente auf der Ebene IV-IV auf Fig. 2 mit Verbindungselementen in einer ersten, getrennten Position;

Fig. 4B

einen Ausschnitt der Bodenbelagselemente auf der Ebene IV-IV auf Fig. 2 mit Verbindungselementen in einer ersten, getrennten Position in einer zweiten, unverriegelten Verbindung zwischen Nut und Feder;

Fig. 4C

einen Ausschnitt der Bodenbelagselemente auf der Ebene IV-IV auf Fig. 2 mit Verbindungselementen in einer ersten, getrennten Position mit in der Nut verriegelter Feder;

Fig. 4D

einen Ausschnitt der Bodenbelagselemente auf der Ebene IV-IV auf Fig. 2 mit Verbindungselementen in einer ersten, getrennten Position in einer ersten Gebrauchslage; und

Fig. 4E

einen Ausschnitt der Bodenbelagselemente auf der Ebene IV-IV auf Fig. 2 mit Verbindungselementen in einer ersten, getrennten Position in einer zweiten Gebrauchslage.

Further aspects and advantages of the present invention result from the claims and from the following description of preferred embodiments with reference to the drawing. It shows:

1

a schematic lateral view of proposed floor covering elements by means of the proposed connection system;

2

a top view of the proposed floor covering;

3

a section of the proposed floor covering according to section line III-III 2 ;

Figure 4A

shows a section of the floor covering elements on level IV-IV 2 with connectors in a first, separated position;

Figure 4B

shows a section of the floor covering elements on level IV-IV 2 with fasteners in a first, separated position in a second, unlocked tongue and groove connection;

Figure 4C

shows a section of the floor covering elements on level IV-IV 2 with connectors in a first, separated position with the tongue locked in the groove;

Figure 4D

shows a section of the floor covering elements on level IV-IV 2 with fasteners in a first, disconnected position in a first use position; and

Figure 4E

shows a section of the floor covering elements on level IV-IV 2 with fasteners in a first, disconnected position in a second use position.

In the figures, the same reference numbers are used for the same or similar parts, with the same or corresponding or similar advantages and properties being able to be achieved, even if a repeated description of certain aspects is dispensed with.

1 shows a proposed connection system 1 for connecting floor covering segments 2 to form a floor 3 in a schematic side view Fig.1 the floor 3 is shown schematically by connecting the floor covering segments 2 on a ground surface 4 . It goes without saying that the bottom 3 can also be produced on other surfaces.

The floor covering segments 2 can have one or more planks 5 which can be connected to one another by means of the connection system 1 . However, these are not mandatory, although preferred. Alternatively or additionally, planks or other floor covering elements 2 can be connected to form the floor covering 3 by means of the connection system 1 .

The proposed connection system 1 has a first connection element 7 on the one hand. The first connecting element 7 has a tongue for producing a tongue and groove connection or bung connection. In the example shown and as preferred, this is at least essentially one continuous or uninterrupted along the first connecting element 7 running, more preferably straight web.

Furthermore, the proposed connection system 1 has a second connection element 9 . The second connecting element 9 preferably corresponds to the first connecting element 7. The second connecting element 9 preferably has a groove 10 in order to enable a tongue and groove connection or bung connection with the tongue 8. According to the proposal, it is provided that the connecting elements 7, 9 connect the floor covering elements 2 or are designed to produce the floor 3. For this purpose, a plurality of floor covering elements 2, preferably at least 3, in particular at least 10 floor covering elements 2, are connected to one another.

Furthermore, it is preferred that the connection that can be produced with the connecting elements 7, 9 can be secured, particularly preferably locked. The securing or locking is preferably effected in a form-fitting manner or the connecting elements 7, 9 are designed for this purpose. In the example shown, the first connecting element 7 has a first positive-locking element 11 and the second connecting element 9 has a second positive-locking element 12 . The form-fitting elements 11, 12 are preferably formed to correspond to one another or complement each other, such that during or after the connection is made by the connecting elements 7, 9, the connection created between them is secured by the form-fitting elements 11, 12, i.e. in particular locked.

In the specific exemplary embodiment, this is particularly preferably achieved by a form-fitting connection between the connecting elements 7, 9, which is at least essentially automatically generated by the form-fitting elements 11, 12 during assembly, i.e. the production of the connection between the groove 10 and tongue 8.

Very particularly preferably, one of the form-fitting elements 11, 12 is designed as a bolt, while the other form-fitting element 11, 12 corresponds or is complementary thereto, in particular a receptacle for the bolt, in particular an opening that 1 is only indicated and is explained in more detail below.

The connection system 1 is preferably designed such that the connection elements 7, 9 initially have an inclination 13 to one another when the connection is established, under which the tongue 8 is at least partially inserted into the groove 10. The floor covering segments 2 are preferably flat structures or at least partially rigid panels. These flat structures or panels can be connected to one another by means of the connection system 1 at one edge each, which carries one of the connection elements 7, 9 in each case. This is preferably done by tilting or pivoting, i.e. changing, preferably reducing, the inclination 13 between the floor covering segments 2 or connecting elements 7, 9.

In this context, incline 13 is an angle that is not equal to, preferably smaller than, 180° between the main direction of extension or central planes of the floor covering segments 2 designed as flat structures and/or panels and/or between imaginary planes that contain the respective connecting elements 7, 9 connect the same floor covering segment 2, and/or is enclosed between central planes of the groove 9 and tongue 8, as in 1 implied.

The inclination 13 can be reduced or increased by a rotating or pivoting movement 14 .

With an inclination 13 of more than 35°, preferably more than 40° or 45°, the connecting elements 7, 9 are always unlocked, since the positive-locking elements 11, 12 do not engage in one another.

The inclination 13 can be reduced in the course of the connection via the pivoting movement 14, whereby the interlocking elements 11, 12 engage in one another or form the interlocking connection in some other way, which is the case, depending on the inclination, preferably at least in the case of inclinations 13 of less than 30°, preferably less than 25° or 20° is.

In a normal position of use of the floor covering segments 2 or the connecting elements 7, 9 relative to one another, the inclination 13 is preferably less than 10°, in particular less than 5°. In other words, the usual position of use is reached when the center plane of the tongue 8 and the center plane of the groove 10 or center planes of adjacent floor covering segments 2 at least essentially coincide or lie parallel. Certain deviations in the sense of a However, clearances are possible and preferred for the purpose of flexibility for adapting the floor covering 3 to the topography of a base such as the surface of the earth 4 or other supporting surface.

The floor covering elements 2 can have a surface structure 15 that causes slip resistance. In particular, these can be nubs, webs or the like.

The floor covering segments 2 can have hollow chambers 16 . They can be designed as laterally open channels. This applies in particular to the first connecting element 9 and/or the plank(s) 5. In principle, however, the second connecting element 9 can also have one or more hollow chambers, even if this is not provided in the example shown.

The hollow chambers 16 can be produced by manufacturing processes such as extrusion, in particular aluminum extrusion. For this purpose, the connecting elements 7, 9 can each be extruded profiles and, preferably also the planks 5 arranged between the connecting elements 7, 9, preferably connected to them. In principle, however, it is also possible that there are no hollow chambers 16 or that they are formed in some other way are, for example, in that the floor covering segments 2 or planks 5 are entirely or partially aluminum Dibond plates.

It is preferred that webs separate the hollow chambers 16 from one another. This preferably creates a supporting structure. These webs 6 can be formed in the course of an extrusion process or when producing a dibond structure by connecting, in particular welding or gluing, the webs or a shaft forming webs with plates forming surfaces.

2 shows a top view of the proposed floor covering 3. In the example shown, this is in the position of use. In this, the positive-locking elements 11, 12 form the form-locking connection that secures the connection between the first connecting element 7 of a first floor segment 2, shown here on the left, and the second connecting element 9 of an adjacent, second floor covering segment 2, shown here on the right. Also visible are surface structures 15 in the form of webs or ribbing as a non-slip finish for the floor covering segments 2.

A cross section of the floor covering segments 2 connected to one another, ie located in the position of use, as floor covering 3 according to section line III-III 2 is in 3 shown.

The floor covering segments 2 are formed from end-side connecting elements 7, 9 and planks 5 arranged between them and connected to them and to one another.

Each floor covering segment 2 preferably has at least three, preferably at least four or five, and/or less than 15, preferably less than 10, in particular between five and 15, eight planks 5 in the illustrated example.

the Figures 4A to 4E show a section of the floor covering 3 according to the section line IV-IV 2 in different inclinations 13.

Floor covering segments 2 and connecting elements 7, 9 are used for connection, starting from an im Figure 4A shown state, in which the floor covering segments 2 and connecting elements 7, 9 are separated from each other and are inclined to each other such that the tongue 8 can be inserted into the groove 10, inclined or pivoted to each other, in which, as in the following Figure 4B and 4C shown, the slope 13 is reduced or suggestive, until in Figure 4D and 4E no inclination 13 is present, wherein in the Figure 4D and 4E mutually translatory shifted positions of the adjacent floor covering segments 2 and connecting elements 7, 9 are shown, which is made possible by the game of the form-fitting elements 11, 12 to each other or is.

Referring to Figure 4A First of all, in addition to the preferred structure of the proposed floor covering segments 2, it should be mentioned that the respective planks 5 and connecting elements 7, 9 have mutually corresponding or complementary connecting profiles or hook profiles, which can be inserted into one another to create a hook connection 17.

Interconnected connecting profiles or the hook connections 17 are or are preferably secured by a fastener 18 . In this way it can be achieved that hook connection 17 is not unintentionally separated. The fastener 18 is very preferably a or more screws. Alternatively or additionally, however, rivets and cotter pins can also be provided to secure the hook connection, which preferably block the connection profiles from being pushed apart. In principle, it is possible for completely different connecting means to be provided between planks 5 and/or for connecting the connecting elements 7, 9, or alternatively for the floor covering segments 2 to be formed completely or partially in one piece with one or both of the connecting elements 7, 9.

As in Figure 4A shown, the second positive-locking element 12 is formed by a sleeve 12B equipped with an internal thread, which is countersunk in the second section 26 of the second connecting element 9 on the side facing away from the sleeve 12B by means of a screw 12A, in the example shown a countersunk screw, on the second Connecting element 9 is attached. However, other fastening options are also conceivable here in order to bind or fasten the bolt as the second positive-locking element 12 .

Starting from the floor covering segments 2 or connecting elements 7, 9 inclined towards one another, as shown in Figure 4A are shown, the tongue 8 can be partially inserted into the groove mouth 22 and thereby partially enters the groove 10, optionally involving a rotary or pivoting movement 14, initially without the form-fitting elements 11, 12 engaging in one another. In this position it is still possible to separate the connecting elements 7 and with them the floor covering segments 2 from one another by a purely translatory relative movement 20 . This can be done in Figure 4B Floor covering segment 2 shown on the right or its first connecting element 7 can be moved in the direction of the main extension plane of the first connecting element 7 or the right floor covering segment 2 .

Starting from this position, a form fit between the form fit elements 11, 12 can be achieved by a further turning or pivoting movement 14, as shown in FIG Figure 4C shown. This intermediate position already enables the connection elements 7, 9 to be locked by the form-fitting elements 11, 12, but without the position of use being reached, since in this position an inclination 13 of the floor covering segments 2 or connection elements 7, 9 relative to one another remains.

Alternatively or additionally, in Figure 4C a position of the floor covering segments 2 or connecting elements 7, 9 to one another, which could also result from leveling out unevenness in the ground surface 4.

The spring 8 preferably comes to rest on the support formed by the projection 27, on which the spring 8 or a section 26 of the first connecting element 7 adjoining the spring 8 is supported while the connection between the connecting elements 7, 9 exists.

The projection 27 or the support is preferably spaced apart from the second form-fitting element 12 of the second connecting element 9 and/or formed separately therefrom.

Finally, as in Figure 4D shown, the floor covering segments 2 or connecting elements 7, 9 are brought into alignment with one another by the inclination 13 being at least substantially eliminated. In this case, the play 19 preferably remains between the form-fitting elements 11, 12, as a result of which a certain translatory relative movement 20 is made possible.

Figure 4E also shows the position of use of the floor covering 3 or the floor covering segments 2 connected to one another via the connecting elements 7, 9 in a translationally moved position relative to one another. Due to the translational relative movement 20, it is possible that in the position of use or when the connecting elements 7, 9 are connected and secured by the form-fitting elements 11, 12, the spring 8 protrudes a little further or a little less far into the groove 10 without the spring 8 can leave the groove 10, however.

In the position of use as shown in Figure 4D and 4E is shown, a further support point for the first connecting element 7 can be provided on the second connecting element 9 or vice versa. The contact points, which can be partially formed by the projection 27, are preferably provided on different sides of the second positive-locking element 12. However, other solutions are also possible here, for example those in which the projection 27 is continuous or wider than in the example shown or is/are formed entirely or partially on the first connecting element 7 instead of on the second connecting element 9 .

Individual aspects of the present invention can be combined with one another, even if this is not explicitly explained.

1. 1. Verbindungssystem 1 zur reversiblen Verbindung von Bodenbelagssegmenten 2 zur Bildung eines Bodenbelags 3, insbesondere einer Baustraße,
   • wobei das Verbindungssystem 1 ein erstes Verbindungselement 7 aufweist, das eine Feder 8 zur Erzeugung einer Nut-Feder-Verbindung oder Spundverbindung aufweist,
   • wobei das Verbindungssystem 1 ein zweites Verbindungselement 9 aufweist, das eine Nut 10 zur zumindest teilweisen Aufnahme der Feder 8 zur Erzeugung der Nut-Feder-Verbindung oder Spundverbindung aufweist,
   • wobei das erste Verbindungselement 7 mindestens ein erstes Formschlusselement 11 und das zweite Verbindungselement 9 außerhalb der Nut 10 mindestens ein zum ersten Formschlusselement 11 korrespondierendes zweites Formschlusselement 12 aufweist, und
   • wobei das Verbindungssystem 1 dazu ausgebildet ist, dass die Formschlusselemente 11, 12 bei zumindest teilweise in die Nut 10 eingeführter Feder 8 durch Neigung 13 der Verbindungselemente 7, 9 zueinander einen Formschluss zu bilden, der eine translatorische Bewegung der Feder 8 aus der Nut 10 formschlüssig blockiert.
2. 2. Verbindungssystem 1 nach Aspekt 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Formschlusselemente eine Verriegelung bilden.
3. 3. Verbindungssystem 1 nach Aspekt 1 oder 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das erste Formschlusselement 11 ein Bolzen und/oder das zweite Formschlusselement 12 eine Aufnahme ist, insbesondere ein Durchbruch, vorzugsweise zur Aufnahme des Bolzens, wobei zur Bildung des Formschlusses der Bolzen in die Aufnahme einsetzbar ist.
4. 4. Verbindungssystem 1 nach einem der voranstehenden Aspekte, Feder 8 im teilweise in die Nut 10 eingeschoben Zustand in der Nut 10 so viel Spiel 19 hat, dass die Verbindungselemente 7, 9 zueinander zwischen einer ersten Position, in der die Formschlusselemente 11, 12 voneinander getrennt sind, und einer zweiten Position, in der die Formschlusselemente 11, 12 den Formschluss bilden, schwenkbar ist.
5. 5. Verbindungssystem 1 nach einem der voranstehenden Aspekte, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Formschlusselemente 11, 12 dazu ausgebildet sind, nach Bildung des Formschlusses Spiel 19 zu haben, vorzugsweise mehr als 2 mm, insbesondere mehr als 5 mm oder 10 mm, und/oder mehr als 0,2 %, vorzugsweise mehr als 0,4 %, der Länge der Nut 10 und/oder Feder 8.
6. 6. Verbindungssystem 1 nach einem der voranstehenden Aspekte, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Feder 8 in der Nut 10 so wenig Spiel 19 hat, dass die Verbindungselemente 7, 9 ausgehend von einer Position der Verbindungselemente 7, 9 zueinander, in der die Formschlusselemente 11, 12 den Formschluss bilden, zueinander gedreht werden müssen, um den Formschluss aufzulösen, wodurch die Verbindungselemente 7, 9 voneinander lösbar sind, und/oder dass bei gebildetem Formschluss ein Trennen der Verbindungselemente 7, 9 durch eine translatorische Bewegung blockiert ist.
7. 7. Verbindungssystem 1 nach einem der voranstehenden Aspekte, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Feder 8 im in die Nut 10 einsetzbaren Abschnitt und/oder dass die Nut 10 frei von Hinterschneidungen ist/sind.
8. 8. Verbindungssystem 1 nach einem der voranstehenden Aspekte, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass eine die Nut 10 begrenzende erste Wandung 21 eine mit einer Nutmündung 22 der Nut 10 abschließende freie Kante 23 aufweist, während auf der der freien Kante 23 abgewandten Seite der Nut 10 eine der ersten Wandung 21 gegenüberliegende, die Nut 10 begrenzende zweite Wandung 24 vorgesehen ist, die einen ersten Abschnitt 25 aufweist, der die Nut 10 begrenzt, und einen zweiten, auf der der Nut 10 abgewandten Seite der Nutmündung 22 vorgesehenen Abschnitt 26, der das erste Formschlusselement 11 aufweist.
9. 9. Verbindungssystem 1 nach einem der voranstehenden Aspekte, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der zweite Abschnitt 26 einen Vorsprung 27 gegenüber einer Flucht 28 der Oberfläche der zweiten Wandung im ersten Abschnitt 25 aufweist, wobei der Vorsprung 27 ein Auflager für das erste Verbindungselement 7 bildet.
10. 10. Verbindungssystem 1 nach Aspekt 8, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Nut 10 eine Tiefe aufweist, die die maximale Einführtiefe der Feder 8 überschreitet, sodass bei in die Nut 10 eingesetzter Feder 8 ein Schmutzaufnahmeraum 29 zwischen einer Stirnseite 30 der Feder 8 und einem Nutboden 31 der Nut 10 gebildet ist
11. 11. Verbindungssystem 1 nach einem der voranstehenden Aspekte, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Verbindungselemente 7, 9, Bodenbelagssegmente 2 oder ein Teil dieser bildenden Planken 5, Strangpressprofile, vorzugsweise Aluminium-Strangpressprofile, Hohlkammer-Strangpressprofile, und/oder Stegplatten sind oder aufweisen.
12. 12. Verbindungssystem 1 nach einem der voranstehenden Aspekte, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass eines der oder beide Verbindungselemente 7, 9 auf einer der Nut 10 bzw. Feder 8 abgewandten Seite ein Verbindungsprofil 17A, 17B, vorzugsweise Hakenprofil, zur Befestigung aneinander und/oder einer Planke 5 aufweist/aufweisen, vorzugsweise unter Bildung einer Hakenverbindung 17.
13. 13. Bodenbelagssegment 2 gebildet aus einem ersten Verbindungselement 7 des Verbindungssystems 1 nach einem der voranstehenden Aspekte und einem zweiten Verbindungselement 9 des Verbindungssystems 1 nach einem der voranstehenden Aspekte, aufweisend mindestens eine mit dem ersten Verbindungselement 7 auf der der Feder 8 abgewandten Seite des ersten Verbindungselements 7 und/oder mindestens eine mit dem zweiten Verbindungselement 9 auf der der Nut 10 abgewandten Seite des zweiten Verbindungselements 9 verbundenen Planke 5.
14. 14. Bodenbelag 3 aufweisend mehrere Bodenbelagssegmente 2 gemäß Aspekt 13, die jeweils durch ein erstes Verbindungselement 7 und ein zweites Verbindungselement 9 benachbarter Bodenbelagssegmente 2 miteinander verbunden sind.
15. 15. Verfahren zur Herstellung eines Bodenbelags 3, insbesondere einer temporären Baustraße, wobei mindestens ein erstes, auf der Erdoberfläche 4 befindliches Bodenbelagssegment 2 nach Aspekt 13 und ein zweites Bodenbelagssegment 2 nach Aspekt 13 miteinander verbunden werden, indem die Feder 8 des zunächst gegenüber den ersten Bodenbelagssegment 2 geneigten zweiten Bodenbelagssegments 2 in die Nut 10 des ersten Bodenbelagssegments 2 teilweise eingeführt wird und durch eine Schwenkbewegung 14 des zweiten Bodenbelagssegments 2 zum ersten Bodenbelagssegment 2 Formschlusselemente 11, 12 der Bodenbelagssegmente 2 in Formschluss gebracht werden, wodurch eine Trennung der Bodenbelagssegmente 2 durch eine translatorische Relativbewegung 20 der Bodenbelagssegmente 2 blockiert wird.

Further aspects of the present invention, which can in particular also be combined with the aspects explained above, are in particular:

1. 1. Connection system 1 for the reversible connection of floor covering segments 2 to form a floor covering 3, in particular a site road,
   • wherein the connection system 1 has a first connection element 7, which has a tongue 8 for producing a tongue and groove connection or bung connection,
   • wherein the connection system 1 has a second connection element 9, which has a groove 10 for at least partially receiving the tongue 8 to produce the tongue and groove connection or bung connection,
   • wherein the first connecting element 7 has at least one first positive-locking element 11 and the second connecting element 9 outside of the groove 10 has at least one second positive-locking element 12 corresponding to the first positive-locking element 11, and
   • wherein the connection system 1 is designed so that the form-fitting elements 11, 12 form a form-fitting connection when the tongue 8 is at least partially inserted into the groove 10 by inclination 13 of the connecting elements 7, 9 relative to one another, which causes a translatory movement of the tongue 8 out of the groove 10 in a form-fitting manner blocked.
2. 2. Connection system 1 according to aspect 1, characterized in that the form-fitting elements form a lock.
3. 3. Connection system 1 according to aspect 1 or 2, characterized in that the first positive-locking element 11 is a bolt and/or the second positive-locking element 12 is a receptacle, in particular an opening, preferably for receiving the bolt, with the bolt being inserted into the recording can be used.
4. 4. Connection system 1 according to one of the above aspects, spring 8 in the partially inserted state in the groove 10 has so much play 19 in the groove 10, that the connecting elements 7, 9 can be pivoted relative to one another between a first position in which the form-fitting elements 11, 12 are separated from one another and a second position in which the form-fitting elements 11, 12 form the form-fitting connection.
5. 5. Connection system 1 according to one of the preceding aspects, characterized in that the form-fitting elements 11, 12 are designed to have play 19 after formation of the form-fitting, preferably more than 2 mm, in particular more than 5 mm or 10 mm, and / or more than 0.2%, preferably more than 0.4%, of the length of the groove 10 and/or tongue 8.
6. 6. Connection system 1 according to one of the preceding aspects, characterized in that the tongue 8 has so little play 19 in the groove 10 that the connecting elements 7, 9, starting from a position of the connecting elements 7, 9 relative to one another, in which the positive-locking elements 11, 12 form the form fit, have to be rotated relative to one another in order to break the form fit, whereby the connecting elements 7, 9 can be detached from one another, and/or that when the form fit is formed, a separation of the connecting elements 7, 9 is blocked by a translatory movement.
7. 7. Connection system 1 according to one of the preceding aspects, characterized in that the tongue 8 in the section that can be inserted into the groove 10 and/or that the groove 10 is/are free of undercuts.
8. 8. Connection system 1 according to one of the preceding aspects, characterized in that a first wall 21 delimiting the groove 10 has a free edge 23 terminating with a groove mouth 22 of the groove 10, while on the side of the groove 10 facing away from the free edge 23 one of the first wall 21 opposite second wall 24 delimiting the groove 10 is provided, which has a first section 25, which delimits the groove 10, and a second section 26, provided on the side of the groove mouth 22 facing away from the groove 10, which contains the first positive-locking element 11 has.
9. 9. Connection system 1 according to one of the preceding aspects, characterized in that the second section 26 has a projection 27 opposite an alignment 28 of the surface of the second wall in the first section 25, the projection 27 forming a support for the first connecting element 7.
10. 10. Connection system 1 according to aspect 8, characterized in that the groove 10 has a depth that exceeds the maximum insertion depth of the tongue 8, so that when the tongue 8 is inserted into the groove 10, there is a dirt-receiving space 29 between an end face 30 of the tongue 8 and a groove bottom 31 of the groove 10 is formed
11. 11. Connection system 1 according to one of the preceding aspects, characterized in that the connection elements 7, 9, floor covering segments 2 or part of these forming planks 5, extruded profiles, preferably aluminum extruded profiles, hollow chamber extruded profiles, and/or web plates are or have.
12. 12. Connection system 1 according to one of the preceding aspects, characterized in that one of the or both connection elements 7, 9 has a connection profile 17A, 17B, preferably a hook profile, on a side facing away from the groove 10 or tongue 8, for attachment to one another and/or a plank 5 has/have, preferably with the formation of a hook connection 17.
13. 13. Floor covering segment 2 formed from a first connecting element 7 of the connecting system 1 according to one of the above aspects and a second connecting element 9 of the connecting system 1 according to one of the above aspects, having at least one with the first connecting element 7 on the side of the first connecting element facing away from the spring 8 7 and/or at least one plank 5 connected to the second connecting element 9 on the side of the second connecting element 9 facing away from the groove 10.
14. 14. Floor covering 3 having a plurality of floor covering segments 2 according to aspect 13, which are each connected to one another by a first connecting element 7 and a second connecting element 9 of adjacent floor covering segments 2.
15. 15. A method for producing a floor covering 3, in particular a temporary site road, wherein at least a first floor covering segment 2 located on the surface of the earth 4 according to aspect 13 and a second floor covering segment 2 according to aspect 13 are connected to one another by the spring 8 of the first opposite the first Floor covering segment 2 inclined second floor covering segment 2 is partially inserted into the groove 10 of the first floor covering segment 2 and a pivoting movement 14 of the second floor covering segment 2 relative to the first floor covering segment 2 brings the form-fitting elements 11, 12 of the floor covering segments 2 into a form-fit connection, as a result of which the floor covering segments 2 are separated by a translatory relative movement 20 of the floor covering segments 2 is blocked.

Reference list:

1

connection system

2

flooring segment

3

flooring

4

surface of the earth

5

plank

6

web

7

first connector

8th

Feather

9

second connector

10

groove

11

First interlocking element

12

Second interlocking element

12A

screw

12B

sleeve

13

Tilt

14

pan movement

15

surface texture

16

hollow chamber

17

hook connection

17A

connection profile

17B

connection profile

18

fasteners

19

Game

20

Translational relative movement

21

first wall

22

slot mouth

23

free edge

24

second wall

25

first section

26

second part

27

head Start

28

Escape

29

dirt holding space

30

face

31

groove bottom

Claims (13)

Connection system (1) for the reversible connection of floor covering segments (2) to form a floor covering (3), in particular a site road, wherein the connection system (1) has a first connection element (7) which has a tongue (8) for producing a tongue and groove connection or bung connection, wherein the connection system (1) has a second connection element (9) which has a groove (10) for at least partially receiving the tongue (8) for producing the tongue and groove connection or bung connection, wherein the first connecting element (7) has at least one first positive-locking element (11) and the second connecting element (9) outside the groove (10) has at least one second positive-locking element (12) corresponding to the first positive-locking element (11), and wherein the connection system (1) is designed so that the form-fitting elements (11, 12) form a form-fitting connection when the tongue (8) is at least partially inserted into the groove (10) by the inclination (13) of the connecting elements (7, 9) relative to one another, which positively blocks a translatory movement of the tongue (8) out of the groove (10), wherein a first wall (21) delimiting the groove (10) has a free edge (23) terminating with a groove opening (22) of the groove (10), while on the side of the groove (10) facing away from the free edge (23) a the second wall (24) opposite the first wall (21) and delimiting the groove (10) is provided, which has a first section (25) which delimits the groove (10) and a second section (25) on which the groove (10) section (26) provided on the side facing away from the groove mouth (22) and having the first positive-locking element (11), characterized, that the second section (26) has a projection (27) opposite an alignment (28) of the surface of the second wall in the first section (25), the projection (27) forming a support for the first connecting element (7), and/ or that the groove (10) has a depth that exceeds the maximum insertion depth of the tongue (8), so that when the tongue (8) is inserted into the groove (10), there is a dirt-collecting space (29) is formed between an end face (30) of the tongue (8) and a groove bottom (31) of the groove (10). Connection system (1) according to Claim 1, characterized in that the projection (27) is spaced apart from the second positive-locking element (12) and/or is formed separately therefrom. Connection system (1) according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the positive-locking elements form a lock. Connection system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second positive-locking element (12) is a bolt and/or the first positive-locking element (11) is a receptacle, in particular an opening, preferably for receiving the bolt, with forming the positive-locking connection the bolt can be inserted into the receptacle. Connection system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, the tongue (8) in the partially inserted state in the groove (10) in the groove (10) has so much play (19) that the connecting elements (7, 9) to each other between a first Position in which the form-fitting elements (11, 12) are separated from one another, and a second position in which the form-fitting elements (11, 12) form the form-fit, is pivotable. Connection system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the form-fit elements (11, 12) are designed to have play (19) after formation of the form-fit, preferably more than 2 mm, in particular more than 5 mm or 10 mm , and/or more than 0.2%, preferably more than 0.4%, of the length of the groove (10) and/or tongue (8). Connection system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tongue (8) in the groove (10) has so little play (19) that the connecting elements (7, 9), starting from a position of the connecting elements (7, 9) to each other, in which the form-locking elements (11, 12) form the form-lock, must be rotated relative to one another in order to break the form-lock, as a result of which the connecting elements (7, 9) can be detached from one another, and/or that the connecting elements separate when the form-lock is formed (7, 9) is blocked by a translational movement. Connection system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tongue (8) in the section which can be inserted into the groove (10) and/or that the groove (10) is/are free of undercuts. Connection system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connecting elements (7, 9), floor covering segments (2) or part of these forming planks (5), extruded profiles, preferably aluminum extruded profiles, hollow chamber extruded profiles, and/or Web plates are or have. Connection system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that one of the or both connection elements (7, 9) has a connection profile (17A, 17B), preferably a hook profile, on a side facing away from the groove (10) or tongue (8). for attachment to one another and/or a plank (5), preferably with the formation of a hook connection (17). Floor covering segment (2) formed from a first connecting element (7) of the connecting system (1) according to one of the preceding claims and a second connecting element (9) of the connecting system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, having at least one with the first connecting element (7) on the side of the first connecting element (7) facing away from the tongue (8) and/or at least one plank (5) connected to the second connecting element (9) on the side of the second connecting element (9) facing away from the groove (10). Floor covering (3) having a plurality of floor covering segments (2) according to Claim 11, which are each connected to one another by a first connecting element (7) and a second connecting element (9) of adjacent floor covering segments (2). A method for producing a floor covering (3), in particular a temporary site road, wherein at least a first floor covering segment (2) located on the ground surface (4) according to Claim 11 and a second floor covering segment (2) according to Claim 11 are connected to one another by the spring (8) of the second floor covering segment (2), which is initially inclined relative to the first floor covering segment (2), into the groove (10) of the first floor covering segment (2) is partially inserted and by a pivoting movement (14) of the second floor covering segment (2) to the first floor covering segment (2) form-fitting elements (11, 12) of the floor covering segments (2) are brought into positive locking, whereby a separation of the floor covering segments (2) by a translatory relative movement (20) of the floor covering segments (2) is blocked.

Images