SE532607C2 - Mechanical locking of vertical paneling floor panels - Google Patents

Description

20 25 30 532 BÛ7 bare movement. By "vertical folding" is meant an interconnection of three panels where a first and a second panel are in an interconnected state, and where a single angular movement of a new panel referred to as the "folding panel" simultaneously connects two perpendicular edges of the new panel with the first and second panels. Such a connection takes place, for example, when a long edge of the first panel in a first row has already been connected to a long edge of a second panel in a second row. The new folding panel is then connected by angling in relation to the long edge of the first panel in the first row. This specific type of angular movement, which also connects the short edge of the new folding panel and the second panel, is referred to as “vertical folding.” It is also possible to connect two panels by lowering the entire panel only by vertical movement towards another panel.

This specific type of locking is referred to as "vertical locking".

Similar floor panels are further described in WO2003 / 016654, in which locking systems comprising a tongue with a flexible flap are disclosed. The tongue is extended and bends substantially in the vertical direction, and the tip of the flap cooperates with a tongue groove for vertical locking.

Vertical locking and vertical folding of this type create a separation pressure at the short edges as the flexible tongue or the flexible parts of the tongue are displaced in a horizontal direction when angling the long edges. The inventor has analyzed several types of floor panels, and discovered that the risk is considerable that the short edges are pushed away from each other during installation, and that a gap could occur between the edge parts of the short edges. 10 15 20 25 30 532 BB? Such a gap could prevent further installation, and the floor panels will then not be possible to connect. It could also cause serious damage to the locking system at the short edges. By pushing the floorboards sideways against the short edges during installation, this slip could be prevented. However, such an installation method is complicated and difficult to use because three movements then have to be combined and performed simultaneously and together with angling of the long edge as described below. a) The edges of a new floor panel must be brought into contact with a first floor panel lying on the floor, and the long edge of the new panel must be pressed forward at an angle to the first panel b) The new panel must be displaced laterally, i pressed and angled position, and pressed laterally against the short edge of a second panel lying on the floor, in order to counteract the back pressure of the tongue c) The new panel must finally be angled down towards the floor, and forward and lateral pressure must be maintained. read during the angular movement.

The inventor has discovered that separation and installation problems often occur when the panels have a thin thickness and small compact locking systems on the long edges, or when the panel core is made of a material with smooth surfaces, such as high density fibreboard (HDF). Such problems could also occur when the panels are short, or in connection with the installation of the first or the last panel in each row, since such installation in 10 15 20 25 30 533 BO? generally made with panels that are cut to a shorter length in order to adapt the floor to the position of the walls.

Separation problems are, of course, extremely difficult to deal with in any type of panel that uses locking systems with a strong flexible tongue that creates a substantially horizontal separating pressure at the vertical fold. Such strong tongues are very important in many applications where a high quality vertical coupling is required, and panels with such flexible tongues are very difficult to install with known installation methods.

The object of the invention is to solve problems with separation in floors intended to be installed with vertical folding or with vertical locking.

Definition of certain terms In the following text, the visible surface of the installed floor panel is called "front", while the opposite side of the floor panel, which is directed towards the subfloor, is called "back". The edge between the front and back is called a "joint edge". "Horizontal plane" means a plane extending parallel to the outer part of the surface layer. Closely placed upper parts of two adjacent joint edges of two joined floor panels together define a "vertical plane" which is perpendicular to the horizontal plane.

"Joint" or "locking system" refers to cooperating coupling means that connect the floor panels vertically and / or horizontally. Mechanical locking systems can in many cases also be combined with gluing. With "integrated with" 10 15 20 25 30 532 EÜ? means designed in a unit together with the panel, or assembled with the panel at the factory.

By a "flexible tongue" is meant a separate tongue having a longitudinal direction along the joint edges, and which forms part of the vertical locking system, and which can be displaced at least partially horizontally upon locking. The entire tongue can, for example, be bendable, or it can have flexible and resilient parts that can bend and spring back into the original position.

By "angle" is meant a coupling which takes place by a rotational movement, whereby the angle is changed between two parts which are to be connected or disconnected. When angling refers to the interconnection of two floor panels, the angular movement takes place in such a way that the upper parts of the joint edges are at least partially in contact with each other during at least parts of the moment of movement.

An "angle locking system" means a mechanical locking system which can be connected vertically and horizontally by angling, and which comprises a tongue and a groove which locks two adjacent edges in the vertical direction, and a locking strap with a locking element at one edge of a panel called a "rail panel" which cooperates with a locking groove on another edge of a panel called a "groove panel", and which locks the edges in the horizontal direction. The locking element and the locking groove generally have rounded conduit surfaces which lead the locking element to the locking groove, and locking surfaces which lock and prevent horizontal separation between the edges.

By "installation angle" is meant the commonly used angle between two panels which are in an initial stage of angling for installation when one panel is in an upward 10 15 20 25 30 532 6G? directed angled position, and pressed with its upper edge against the upper edge of another panel which lies flat on the subfloor.

The installation angle is generally around 25 degrees, and in this position there are only two contact points between the rail panel and the track panel. In very special cases where more than two contact points between the coupling details can be found, the installation angle is over 25 degrees.

"Contact angle" means the angle of the folding panel when the short edge of a panel is brought into initial contact with the part of the flexible tongue which is intended to be displaced horizontally and which is effective in vertical locking at the short edges.

By "cable angle" is meant the angle between two floor panels when the cable surfaces of the locking elements on the locking rail and / or on the locking groove are in contact with each other. Cable surfaces are often rounded or chamfered parts which, at the angle, press the upper edges of the panels against each other, and facilitate the fitting of the locking element in the locking groove. Most locking systems on the market have a cable angle that is around 5 degrees.

By "locking angle" is meant the angle between two floor panels at the final stage of an angular movement, when the locking surfaces of the locking element and of the locking groove are in an initial contact with each other. Most locking systems have locking angles around 3 degrees or lower.

By "friction angle" is meant the angle at which friction along the long edges increases significantly due to the fact that more than two contact points are active in an angle locking system, and which counteract displacement along the long edges. 10 15 20 25 30 532 BG? By "tongue pressure" is meant the pressure in N when a tongue is in a predetermined position. By "maximum tongue pressure" is meant the pressure of the tongue when it is in its internal position during vertical folding, and by "tongue prestress" is meant the tongue pressure in the locked position when the tongue presses against a part of the tongue groove.

Summary of the Invention The present invention relates to a set of floor panels or a floating floor with a mechanical locking system which will improve the installation of floor panels installed with vertical folding, and which will counteract or prevent separation of the card ends during installation.

The invention is based on a first basic insight that such problems with separation are mainly related to the locking systems at the long edges. All known locking systems used to lock panels with angles are very easy to move along the joint as the floor panels are in an initially angled position in relation to each other.

The friction increases significantly at a low angle, as the floor panels are almost in a locked position. This means that the friction between the long edges is not sufficient to prevent displacement of the short edges during the initial step of the vertical folding, when the angle is large, and when a part of the flexible tongue is to be pressed horizontally in order to enable vertical folding. The friction between long edges will increase in most locking systems at a small angle, but this is a disadvantage because the short edges may have already been separated, and the locking system on the short edge is not able to overcome the friction at a small angle to contract them. shorten the edges.

The separation complicates the installation because panels must be angled and pressed sideways during installation, and 10 15 20 25 30 532 EQ? the risk is considerable that the locking system on the short edge is damaged.

The main object of the invention is to solve the problem of separation between the short edges by, in contrast to current technology, increasing the friction between the long edges when the long edges are in an angled position, and before they reach their final locked position. The increased friction between the long edges could counteract or even prevent displacement along the joint between the long edges during vertical folding as the flexible tongue presses the floor panels apart, and it could counteract or even completely prevent separation of the short edges during such installation. .

The invention is based on a second insight that the combined function of the long-term locking system and the short-term locking system is a necessity in a floor which is designed for installation with vertical folding. Long and short side locking systems should be adapted to each other in order to provide a simple, easy and reliable installation.

The invention provides new embodiments of locking systems at long and short edges in accordance with various aspects which offer their respective advantages. Useful areas for the invention are floor panels of any shape and of any material, e.g. laminate; in particular panels with surface materials containing thermosetting plastic, wood, HDF, veneer or stone.

According to a first principle, the invention comprises floor panels with long edges with a locking system which at an angle which is greater than that used with the current 10 15 20 25 30 E32 EÜ? known technology counteracts displacement along the joint when the panels are connected with vertical folding.

The invention provides a set of substantially identical floor panels which each comprise long and short edges, and which are provided with first and second coupling details integrated with the floor panels.

The coupling details are configured to connect adjacent edges. The first coupling part comprises a locking rail with an upright locking element at one edge of a floor panel, and a downwardly open locking groove at an adjacent edge of another floor panel, for coupling the adjacent edges horizontally in a direction perpendicular to the adjacent edges. The second coupling member comprises a tongue at one edge of a floor panel, which extends horizontally and at right angles to the edge, and a horizontal open tongue groove in an adjacent edge of another floor panel for coupling adjacent edges in the vertical direction.

The coupling details at the long edges are configured for locking with an angle, and the coupling details at the short edges are configured for locking with vertical folding. A long edge of a new panel in a second row is configured to connect to a long edge of a first panel in a first row by angling. A short edge on the new panel and a short edge on a second panel in a second row are configured to connect with the same angular movement. The coupling details on the long edges have at least three separate contact points or contact surfaces between adjacent parts of the coupling details when the new panel is pressed with its upper edge against the first 10 15 20 25 30 532 GÜ? The upper edge of the panel at an angle of at least 10 degrees to the main plane.

When the floor panel in accordance with the first principle of the invention is provided with long edges which at an angle of 10 degrees have three contact points, a significant friction is created between the long edges, and this friction will counteract or prevent displacement of the short edges, caused by tongue pressure at the vertical fold. The advantage is that the flexible tongue can be designed and positioned on the short edge with an initial contact point located near the long edge, for example at a distance of about 15 mm from the long edge, and this will enable vertical locking along a substantial part of the short edge.

According to another principle, the position and shape of the flexible tongue at the short edge and the locking system on the long edges are such that the friction along the long edges will increase as the panel is angled downwards from an installation angle to a contact angle, as the flexible tongue the vertical folding movement comes into initial contact with the adjacent corresponding edge, and then further folding will lead to a first flexible edge of the flexible tongue being displaced horizontally, and a horizontal separation pressure is created by the short edges.

According to this principle, a set of substantially identical floor panels is provided, each comprising long and short edges, and equipped with first and second coupling details integrated with the floor panels.

The coupling details are configured for coupling of 10 15 20 25 30 532 BB? 11 adjacent edges. The first coupling part comprises a locking rail with an upwardly facing locking element at one edge of a floor panel, and a downwardly open locking groove at an adjacent edge of another floor panel, for coupling the adjacent edges horizontally in a direction perpendicular to the adjacent ones. the edges. The second coupling part comprises a tongue at an edge of a floor panel, which extends horizontally and at right angles to the edge, and a horizontal open tongue groove in an adjacent edge of another floor panel, for interconnecting adjacent edges in the vertical direction.

The coupling details at the long edges are configured for locking with an angle, and the coupling details at the short edges are configured for locking with a vertical fold. A long edge of a new panel in a second row is configured for interconnection with a long edge of a first panel in a first row by angling. A short edge on a new panel and a short edge on a second panel in a second row are configured for coupling with the same angular motion.

The tongue at the short edges is made of a separate material, and is connected to a coupling groove, and has a flexible part with an edge section placed closest to the long edge of the first panel. The edge section is configured to shift horizontally during folding, and to cooperate with the tongue groove on an adjacent short edge to lock the floor panels together in the vertical direction. The first and second coupling details on the long edges are configured in such a way that a frictional force along the long edges is lower at an installation angle than at a contact angle (CA) where the panels are pressed against each other with the same compressive force and with the upper joint edges in contact. 10 15 20 25 30 533 GG? 12 The installation angle is 25 degrees and the contact angle is a smaller angle corresponding to an initial contact between the edge section and the adjacent short edge.

The increased friction between the long edges at the contact angle could be obtained in many different ways, for example by increasing the pressure between contact points and / or by increasing the size of the contact surfaces at the contact points between the first and second couplings and / or by increasing the number of contact points from 2 to 3 or from 3 to 4.

According to yet another principle, a locking system on the long edges is provided with friction aids which cause the friction to be high along the long edges in an angled position when only two contact points are present between the coupling details on the long edges.

According to this further principle, a set of substantially identical floor panels is provided, each comprising long and short edges, and provided with first and second coupling details integrated with the floor panels. The coupling details are configured to connect adjacent edges. The first coupling part comprises a locking rail with an upright locking element at one edge of a floor panel, and a downwardly open locking groove at an adjacent edge of another floor panel, for coupling the adjacent edges horizontally in a direction perpendicular to the adjacent edges. The second coupling part comprises a tongue at an edge of a floor panel, which extends horizontally in a perpendicular direction to the edge, and a horizontal open tongue groove in an adjacent edge of a 10 15 20 25 30 533 EÜ? 13 another floor panel, for connecting the adjacent edges in the vertical direction. The coupling details at the long edges are configured to lock at an angle, and the coupling details at the short edges are configured for locking with vertical folding. A long edge of a new panel in a second row is configured for interconnection with a long edge of a first panel in a first row by angling. A short edge on a new panel and a short edge on a second panel in a second row are configured to be coupled with the same angular motion. The tongue at the short edges is made of a separate material, connected by a coupling groove, and has a flexible part which is configured to be displaced horizontally during folding, and to cooperate with the tongue groove on an adjacent short edge for interlocking. of the floor panels in the vertical direction. The first and second coupling details on the long edges comprise friction aids configured to increase the friction along the long edges when the panels are at an angle where there are only two contact points between the first and the second coupling part.

This additional principle offers the advantages that friction along the long edges can be high even at a large angle, for example at the installation angle, and this could be used in connection with an installation procedure where an edge of the flexible tongue is compressed by displacing the long edge below the initial stage of the vertical folding as shown in Figures 4b and 40. The friction aid will prevent or counteract displacement along the EEE GÜ? 14 the long edges and separation of the short edges during vertical folding.

Such friction aids could comprise mechanically designed devices such as, for example, small projections formed with rotating tools or press discs on parts of the locking system, for example on the tongue and / or on the locking rail.

They could also include chemicals or small particles that are applied to the locking system in order to increase the friction along the long edges.

According to yet another principle, a floor system is provided with a locking system on the long and short edges, where the floor panels can be locked with vertical tilting, and where the position, shape and material properties of a flexible tongue on a short edge are combined with a long edge locking system. makes it possible for a floor panel cut to a length of 20 cm to be connected to another panel in the same row with vertical folding, and so that the friction between the long edges then prevents separation of the short edges.

According to this further principle, a set of substantially identical floor panels is provided, each comprising long and short edges and equipped with first and second coupling details integrated with the floor panels. The coupling details are configured to connect adjacent edges. The first coupling part comprises a locking rail with an upright locking element at one edge of a floor panel, and a downwardly open locking groove at an adjacent edge of another floor panel, for coupling the adjacent edges horizontally in a 10 15 20 25 30 532 EÜ? Direction perpendicular to the adjacent edges.

The second coupling part comprises a tongue at an edge of a floor panel, which extends horizontally at right angles to the edge, and a horizontal open tongue groove in an adjacent edge of another floor panel, for interconnecting the adjacent edges in the vertical direction.

The coupling details at the long edges are configured for locking with an angle, and the coupling details at the short edges are configured for locking with a vertical fold. A long edge of a new panel in a second row is configured to connect to a long edge of a first panel in a first row by angling. A short edge on the new panel and a short edge on a second panel in a second row are configured for coupling with the same angular movement. The tongue at the short edges is made of a separate material, is interconnected with a coupling groove, and has a flexible part which is configured to be displaced horizontally when folded, and to cooperate with the tongue groove on an adjacent short edge to lock the floor panels in a vertical direction. The coupling details on long and short edges are configured in such a way that the second and the new panel, whereby one of said panels, cut to a length of about 20 cm, is not displaced away from the other panel when said panels are in contact position at an installation angle and for vertical folding.

This additional principle offers the advantages that floor panels with such a locking system can be installed with high precision, and that separation of short edges will not take place even when panels are cut into small pieces and installed as a first or a last panel in a 10 15 20 25 532 SO? 16 rad. A separation of say 0.01 mm could be enough to create problems and unwanted gaps, which could be visible in a floor surface, or in which moisture could penetrate into the joint. An installation procedure for connecting floor panels with vertical folding is also described. The panels have a locking system with angling on the long edges and a system with vertical folding on the short edges for vertical and horizontal locking of the panels, a first and a second panel lying flat on a subfloor with the long edges connected to each other, characterized by that the method comprises the steps of a) contacting a long edge of an angled new panel with the upper part of a long edge of the first panel and b) bringing a short edge of the new panel into contact with a short edge of the second panel, the new panel being held in this position with the locking system on the long and / or the short edge, c) pressing a short edge section of the new panel downwards, towards the subfloor, thereby connecting the first, second and third panels with vertical folding With this installation procedure, floor panels can be kept in an angled position with, for example, the upper part of a locking element and the lower part of a locking groove. This will facilitate installation because the installer can change the position of the hand from bringing a panel to an installation angle, and then to a position such as 10 15 20 25 30 532 EÛ? 17 is suitable for pressing down the short edge section of this panel against the subfloor. The advantage is that the combined movements of compressing the upper edges at an angle, pressing the panel sideways to avoid separation of short edges, and folding the panel down towards the floor, can be avoided and replaced by three separate and independent movements. .

It is obvious that two or more or even all of the principles described above could be combined, and that all embodiments of the locking systems described in this application could be used in combinations or independently for interconnection of long and / or short edges.

The invention is useful in all types of floors. However, it is particularly suitable for short panels, for example 40-120 cm, where the friction along the long edges is small, for wide panels with a width exceeding 20 cm, as the flexible tongue is long and will create an extensive heavy pressure, and for panels with, for example, a core of HDF, compact laminate or plastic material and the like, where the friction is low due to the very smooth surfaces with low friction in the locking systems. The invention is also useful in thin panels with, for example, a thickness of 6-9 mm, and in particular in such panels with compact locking systems on long edges, for example with locking straps shorter than 6 mm, since such floor panels and such locking systems have a small contact area with low friction.

Several advantages could be achieved with a floor system configured in accordance with one or more of the principles described above. A first advantage consists in that the installation can be performed in a simple manner, and that no 10 15 20 25 30 532 SB? 18 lateral pressures need to be applied during installation in order to prevent floorboards from separating at the short edges. A second advantage is that the risk of separation between edges, which could cause cracks in the locking system during folding, is greatly reduced. A third advantage is that the locking systems could be designed with firmer and stronger tongues which could lock the panels vertically with higher strength and with a significant tongue bias. Such tongues with a significant maximum tongue pressure and with a significant tongue prestress in the locked position will create high separation forces during vertical folding. A fourth advantage is that the flexible tongue could be positioned close to the long edge, and a reliable locking function could be obtained despite the fact that such a flexible tongue will create a separation pressure at a fairly large contact angle.

A measurement of the friction at initial contact and the friction at installation should be made in accordance with the following principles. The contact angle CA between a new floorboard and a first floorboard should be measured when a first edge section of the flexible tongue which is active in the vertical locking comes into a first contact with the short edge during the initial step of the vertical folding movement. The contact friction along the long edge of a 200 mm long sample should be measured at this contact angle when the panels are pressed against each other with a normal installation pressure of 10 N. The installation friction should be measured according to the same procedure at an installation angle of 25 degrees. The contact friction should be at least about 50% higher than the installation pressure. 10 15 20 25 30 533 BÜ? Friction aids comprising mechanical devices such as projections, brushy fibers, scraped edge and the like in a locking system are easy to access. Chemicals are more difficult.

Another method should be used to measure increased friction depending on friction aids if it is not clear and obvious that mechanical devices, chemicals, impregnation, coating, separate materials, etc., are used in order to increase the friction between floorboards at an installation angle. . A new locking system with basically the same design as the original sample could be produced based on the same original floor panels and core material. The friction should be measured at the same installation angle, and the pressure and friction between the two samples, the original sample and the new sample, should be compared. This test procedure naturally presupposes that the entire core is free from the content of friction-increasing material.

Several HDF-based floor panels on the market have been tested, and the result is that a sample with a 200 mm long edge which is pressed against another long edge with a pressure of 10 N at an angle of 25 degrees generally has a friction which is about 10 N or less. This is far too little to prevent displacement of the short edges during vertical folding. Friction aids could increase the friction significantly.

The contact angle is defined as the angle between the new panel when an edge is in initial contact with the part of the flexible tongue that is intended to be displaced, and which is effective in the vertical locking. For example, there could be protrusions at the edge of the tongue which do not cause 10 15 20 25 533 Eü? Slightly greater horizontal pressure during vertical folding. Such protrusions and similar devices should not be considered as forming part of the flexible tongue.

All references to "an element (s), device, component, means, step, etc.]" shall be construed in an open manner, such as referring to at least one example of said element, device, component , means, steps, etc., unless otherwise expressly stated.

Brief Description of the Drawings FIG.

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Figs. 1a-d 2a-b 3a-b 4a-d 5a-e 7a-d illustrate a prior art locking system showing a flexible tongue in prior art locking movement. shows a floor panel with a mechanical locking system according to the prior art on a short edge. shows how short edges on two floor panels could be locked with vertical folding in accordance with known technology. shows embodiments of short edge locking systems which could be used in connection with the invention. shows sliding tongues in embodiments according to the invention. shows in a 3D view separation between panels during vertical folding 10 15 20 25 Fig.

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Fig. L0a-c lla-c l2a-c l3a-d l4a-d l5a-c 532 EÜ? 21 shows the separation pressure of the tongue on the short edge during installation. shows locking systems used in large volumes on the market, and contact points between surfaces in such systems at different angles during installation with angling. shows embodiments of locking systems for the long edge with a friction angle that is 10 degrees in accordance with the invention. shows embodiments of locking systems for the long edge with a friction angle that is 15 degrees in accordance with the invention. shows a long and a short edge locking system and the position of a flexible tongue in accordance with embodiments according to the invention. shows embodiments of the panel position at the contact angle. shows the position of the flexible tongue relative to the long edge in accordance with embodiments of the invention. shows an embodiment with friction aids in accordance with the invention. Fig. 16a-d Fig. 17a-c Fig. 18a-c Fig. 19a-c Fig. 20a-c 533 EQ? 22 shows a method for measuring frictional forces at different angles in accordance with embodiments of the invention. shows alternative embodiments with three contact points in accordance with the invention. shows further alternative embodiments with three contact points in accordance with the invention. shows further alternative embodiments with two and three contact points which create friction in accordance with the invention. shows alternative embodiments with four contact points at an angle of 20 degrees in accordance with the invention.

Description of the Embodiments of the Invention Figures 1-6 and the accompanying description below describe published embodiments, and are used to explain the main principles of the invention. The embodiments shown are examples only. It should be noted that all types of flexible tongues and tongues in one piece, which could be used in a locking system to enable vertical folding and / or vertical locking, could be used, and the applicable part of this description forms a part of the present invention. 10 15 20 25 533 EB? A prior art floor panel 1, 1 'equipped with a mechanical locking system and a sliding tongue is described with reference to Figs. 1a-d.

Figure 1a schematically illustrates a cross-section of a joint between a short edge joint edge 4a on a panel 1 and an opposite short edge joint edge 4b on a second panel 1 '.

The fronts of the panels are necessarily positioned in a common horizontal plane HP, and the upper parts 21, 41 of the joined edges 4a, 4b abut each other in a vertical plane VP. The mechanical locking system provides locking of the panels in relation to each other in the vertical direction D1 as well as in the horizontal direction D2.

In order to provide joining of the two joined edges in the D1 and D2 directions, the edges of the floor panel in a manner known per se have a locking rail 6 with a locking element 8 in a joint edge, hereinafter referred to as the "rail panel" which cooperates with a locking groove 14 in the other joint edge, hereinafter referred to as the "folding panel", and provides the horizontal reading.

Prior art mechanical locking systems comprise a separate flexible tongue 30 fixed in a displacement groove 40 formed in one of the joint edges. The flexible tongue 30 has a recess portion P1, which is located in the displacement groove 40, and a protruding portion P2 projecting outside the displacement groove 40. The protruding portion P2 of the flexible tongue 30 in one of the joint edges cooperates with a tongue groove 20 formed in the other joint edge. 10 15 20 25 30 532 'EB? The flexible tongue 30 has a projection part P2 with a rounded outer part 31 and a sliding surface 32, which in this embodiment is shaped as a chamfer. It has upper 33 and lower 35 tongue displacement surfaces, and an inner part 34.

The displacement groove 40 has an upper 42 and a lower 46 opening, which in this embodiment are rounded, an inner 44 and an upper 43 and a lower 45 groove displacement surface, which are preferably substantially parallel to the horizontal plane HP.

The tongue groove 20 has a tongue-locking surface 22, which cooperates with the flexible tongue 30, and locks the joint edges in a vertical direction D1. The folding panel 1 'has a vertical locking surface 24 which is closer to the rear side 62 than the tongue groove 20. The vertical locking surface 24 cooperates with the rail 6, and locks the joint edges in a different vertical direction. In this embodiment, the folding panel has a sliding surface 23 which cooperates when locked with the sliding surface 32 on the flexible tongue 30.

The flexible tongue could be wedge-shaped, and could be locked in the tongue groove with bias which would press the folding panel 1 'against the rail panel. Such an embodiment will give a very strong joint with high quality.

Figure 3a shows a cross section A-A of a panel in accordance with Figure 3b seen from above. The flexible tongue 30 has a length L along the joint edge, a width W parallel to the horizontal plane and perpendicular to the length L, and a thickness T in the vertical direction D1. The sum of the largest groove part P1 and the largest protrusion part P2 is the total width TW. The flexible tongue also in this embodiment has a middle section MS and two edge sections ES next to the middle section. The protrusion part P2 and the groove part P1 vary in size 10 15 20 25 30 532 EU? In this embodiment along the length L, and the tongue is spaced from the two corner sections 9a and 9b. The flexible tongue 30 has on one of the edge sections a friction coupling 36 which could be shaped such as, for example, a locally small vertical projection. This friction clutch holds the flexible tongue in the displacement groove 40 during installation or during production, packing and transport, if the flexible tongue is integrated with the floor panel in the factory.

Figures 2a and 2b show the position of the flexible tongue 30 after the first displacement towards the inside 44 of the displacement groove 40. The displacement is mainly caused by the flexible tongue 30 being bent in its longitudinal direction L parallel to the width W. This property is necessary for this prior art. Embodiments that are on the market have a maximum tongue pressure of about 20 N.

The folding panel could be disconnected with a needle-shaped tool, which could be inserted from the corner section 9b to the tongue groove 20, and press back the flexible tongue in the displacement groove 40. The folding panel would then be angled up while the rail panel is still on the subfloor. Of course, the panels could also be disconnected in the traditional way.

Figure 4a shows an embodiment of a vertical fold. A first panel 1 "in a first row R1 is connected to a second 1 panel in a second row R2. A new panel 1 'is moved with its long edge 5a towards the long edge 5b of the first panel 1" at a normal installation angle which is about 25-30 degrees, pressed against the adjacent edge, and connected with its long edge Sa to the long edge 5b of the first panel by angling.

This angular movement also connects the short edge 4b of the new panel 1 'with the short edge 4a of the second panel 1. The folding panel 1' is locked at the rail panel 1 with a combined vertical and rotating movement along the vertical plane VP. The projection part P2 has a rounded and / or angled folding part P2 'which, when folded, cooperates with the sliding surface 23 on the folding panel 1'. The combined effect of a folding part P2 ', and a sliding part 32 on the tongue, which during folding cooperates with the sliding surface 23 on the folding panel 1', facilitates the first displacement of the flexible tongue 30. A necessary feature of this embodiment is the the position of the projecting part P2, which is located at a distance from the corner sections 9a and 9b. The distance is at least 10% of the length of the joint edge, which in this case is the visible short edge 4a.

Figure 4b-c shows an embodiment of the set of floor panels with a sliding tongue and an alternative installation method. In this embodiment, the length of the tongue is more than 90% of the width of the panel front WS, and in other preferred embodiments, the length of the tongue is preferably in the range of from 75% to substantially the same as the width of the front WS. The length of the tongue is preferably around the total width of the panel minus the width of the locking system on the adjacent edges of the panel. A small bevel can be applied to the ends of the outer edge, but the straight part of the tongue at the outer edge preferably has a length which is substantially equal to the length of the tongue, or advantageously more than 90%. The new panel 1 'is in an angled position with an upper part of the joint edge in contact with the first panel 1 "in the first row. The short edges 4a and 4b are separated from each other. The new panel 1 'is then displaced laterally towards the second panel 1 until the short edges 4a, 4b are substantially in contact, and a part of the flexible tongue 15 is pressed into the displacement groove 40 which can be seen in figure 4b. The new panel 1 'is then folded down towards the second panel 1. Since the displacement of the new panel 1' only presses an edge section of the flexible tongue 30 into the displacement groove 40, it will be possible to perform vertical folding with less resistance. When panels with the known arcuate tongue 30 (see Figure 2-4) are installed, the entire tongue must be pressed into the displacement groove. in accordance with the invention no less force is required for a tongue with the same spring constant per unit length of tongue. It is therefore possible to use a tongue with a higher spring constant per unit length and a higher resilient force, which leads to a more reliable final position for the tongue. With this installation procedure, the chamfered sliding surface on the folding panel is not necessary, or it may be smaller, which is an advantage for a thin panel. The disadvantage of this procedure is that the new panel must be angled and pressed sideways during the vertical folding.

Figure 4c shows that all embodiments of a tongue could be present on the folding panel. Of course, some adjustments are required, of course.

It is generally an advantage to have the tongue on the rail panel because rounded or chamfered parts on the folding panel could be used to facilitate displacement of flexible parts on the tongue. An embodiment with a tongue, which 10 15 20 25 30 E32 EG? 28 sitting on the folding panel as shown in Figure 4d, will have the disadvantage that the tongue must slide against a sharp edge on the surface of the panel.

A tongue could comprise plastic material, and could be produced by, for example, injection molding. With this production process, many different complicated three-dimensional shapes could be produced at low cost, and the flexible tongues could be easily connected to each other to form tongue blanks. A tongue could also be produced from an extruded or machined plastic or metal section, which could be further formed by, for example, punching, to form a flexible tongue. The disadvantage of extrusion is, in addition to the additional production steps, that it is difficult to strengthen the tongue with, for example, fibers.

Any type of polymeric material could be used, such as PA (nylon), POM, PC, PP, PET or PE or the like, which have the properties described above in the various embodiments. If injection molding is used, these plastic materials could be reinforced with, for example, fiberglass, carbon fiber or talc or chalk. kevlar fiber, A preferred material is glass fiber, preferably extra long, reinforced PP or POM.

Figures 5a-5e show embodiments of flexible tongues 30, which could be used to lock short edges in accordance with the invention. Figure 5a has a separate tongue 30 on the folding panel with a flexible snap flap projecting upwards. Figure 5b shows a separate tongue 30 on the rail panel with a flexible snap flap projecting downwards. Figure 5c shows a separate tongue with a flexible 10 15 20 25 30 532 BB? 29 snap tab within a displacement groove 40. The snap tab could extend upwards or downwards, and could sit on the rail panel or on the folding panel according to the same principles as shown in Figures 5a and b. Figure 5d shows a flexible tongue comprising projections as shown in Figure 6a, and these projections could be located in the displacement groove 40 or start from the vertical plane and into the tongue groove 20. Figure 5e shows that the tongue 30 could be formed in one piece with the panel, and locking could be obtained by compressing fibers or by parts of the panel material and / or by bending the rail 6.

Figures 6a-c show embodiments of the tongue 30 which could be used in accordance with the invention. They are all configured to be inserted into a groove in a floor panel. Figure 6a shows a flexible tongue 30 with flexible projections 16. Figure 6b shows an arcuate tongue 30 and figure 6c shows a tongue 30 with a flexible snap flap 17.

Figure 7a-d shows in 4 steps installation with vertical folding and problems related to such installation. In order to simplify the description, an embodiment with the flexible tongue 30 is shown on the rail panel. As explained earlier, the tongue could be on the folding panel. A new panel 1 'is moved at an installation angle with its long edge 5a towards the long edge of a first panel 1 "until the upper edges are in contact. The new panel is then displaced laterally until the short edge 4b comes into contact. at a short edge on an adjacent second panel in the same row as shown in Figure 7.a. 15 20 25 30 533 ÉÜ? 30 the short edge of the new panel as shown in Figure 7.b Further angling, which for optimal function should be done with contact between the short ends, will gradually push an increasing part of the flexible tongue horizontally , and the flexibility of the tongue will create an increasing pressure which pushes the short edges 4a and 4b away from each other.An unwanted gap G will be created as shown in figure 7c In many cases the locking element 8 will not be able to pull back the short edges the panels since the friction between the long edges may be significant when the panels are at a small angle, and the gap G will remain in the interconnected stage as shown in Figure 7d. This could cause cracks or other damage to the locking system. Even very small remaining gaps, 0.01-0.1 mm, could cause severe problems as moisture could easily penetrate into the joint.

Figures Ba-8d show in detail the separation problems caused by the flexible tongue 30. The panels 1, 1 'are in accordance with figure 8a at a contact angle with the sliding surfaces 23, 32 on the folding panel 1' and the flexible tongue in contact.

Figures 8b and 8c show that the flexibility of the tongue will create a separation pressure SP which could separate the panels 1, 1 'from each other and create a gap G if the panels are not compressed by the installer. Figure 8d shows the panels in locked position with a permanent gap G. In this case the locking rail 6 is bent and the locking element 8 is only partially in the locking groove 14. In the worst case cracks appear in the locking element 8, and the panels will not be locked horizontally at the short edges.

Figures 9a-9o show 3 locking systems with angles, which are used in large quantities in traditional floors locked with angles 10 15 20 25 30 532 EÜ? 31 ling. Figures 9a-c show the floor panels at an installation angle A which is 25 degrees. In this mode, there are only two contact points CP3 and CP2 between the first and the second coupling part. There is always an upper contact point CP3 or contact surface at the upper joint edges, and a second lower contact point or contact surface CP4 at the lower part of the tongue or somewhere between the inner lower part of the tongue 10 and the locking groove 14. The displacement friction along this joint is very low, especially in HDF-based floors with smooth surfaces. Figures 9d-f show a further angle to an angle of 15 degrees, and Figures 9g-I show an angle of 10 degrees. In these positions there are still only two contact points, and the friction remains low. Figures 9j-1 show the position at an angle of 5 degrees, which in these embodiments constitutes the angle of friction. Figures 9j and 9k show that the locking systems are at a locking angle where the locking surfaces 51, 52 are partially in contact. Figure 91 shows a locking system at a cable angle with the cable surfaces 11, 12 in contact. Figure 9j shows that this locking system has 4 contact points, two upper contact points at the upper joint edges CP3 and at the upper part CP1 of the tongue, and two lower contact points at the lower part CP2 of the tongue, and between the locking surfaces CP4. Figure 9k shows two upper CP1, CP3 and a lower contact point CP4. Figure 91 is similar to Figure 9j, but a lower contact point is present between the conduit surfaces 11, 12.

The displacement friction along the joint edges will increase significantly in these positions, especially if the fit between the contact points or the contact surfaces is tight, and / or if the contact surfaces have a larger size. Pre-tensioning could further increase the friction, and a displacement along the longitudinal edges in connection with vertical folding could be counteracted and in most cases complete 10 15 20 25 30 532 BG? 32 digt is avoided even in small pieces of floor panel. However, such locking systems are not suitable on the long side in a vertical folding system where the contact angle exceeds 5-8 degrees, especially not if they are produced with a normal fit between the coupling parts, this as they will not prevent displacement along the long edges or separation of the short edges.

Figure 10a shows an embodiment in accordance with the invention. Such a locking system could preferably be used on the long edges of a system of vertical folding with a contact angle A which is about 10 degrees and below. It will also be possible to use such a system in locking systems with a larger contact angle because such a system will prevent displacement already at 10 degrees as most folded down locking systems create the highest displacement pressure. Figure 10a shows the position of panel 1 'at the angle of 15 degrees when only two points CP3, CP2 are in contact. Panel l'a is in a friction angle position of 12 degrees with three contact points CP3, CP2, CP4 '. This position is characterized by the fact that there is only one contact point CP2 on the tongue, and by the fact that the conduit surfaces 11, 12 are in contact. This is an advantage since the conduit surfaces will press the tongue into the groove at a further angle, as shown in Figure 10b. The friction has increased further, and is caused by vertical contacts and the interaction between the tongue 10 and the tongue groove 9 (CP1, CP2), the horizontal contacts between the upper 12 which form the second lower contact point CP4. The ideal position is the leading edges CP3 and the conduction surfaces 11, preferably an embodiment with a contact angle equal to or less than the friction angle and conduction angle 10 15 20 25 30 533 EQ? 33 keln. Such an embodiment would, for example, have a friction and conduction angle of about 10 degrees, and a contact angle of about 8-9 degrees. The reading could be performed in an extremely simple manner and only a downward pressure on the new panel would need to be applied when the panel is placed at a wire angle. Figure 10c shows that the locking system is configured at a large angle between the locking surfaces and that fibers at the angle final stage, as shown by the position 1'a, must be compressed at upper edges CP4 and at locking surfaces CP4 in order to enable locking. This configuration provides several benefits. The friction will increase and will be at a high level when the separation force is at its highest level.

The floor panels will remain in an angled position through the locking element and the loading groove as shown in Figure 10b.

This will facilitate installation because the installer can then change the position of the hands from bringing the panel to the installation angle to a movement for vertical pressing at the short edge. The invention therefore provides a vertical locking system with a system with angling at a long edge, which enables a panel to remain in an angled position towards another panel, with upper joint edges in contact. It also provides a locking system where an increasing pressure is obtained between the upper joint edges and the locking element and / or between the tongue and the groove in a final angular step, when a part of the locking groove 14 is in contact with the locking element 8.

Figures 11a-11c show that the same principles could be used to design a locking system with an even larger friction angle A, for example 15 degrees, as shown in Figure 11a. The locking element 8 has been made higher, and it 10 15 20 25 532 BG? 34 in this preferred embodiment extends vertically LH from the lowest point of the locking rail 6 and about 0.2 times the thickness T of the floor. The tongue has a lower part 54 which is substantially parallel to the horizontal plane HP and which extends from the vertical plane and preferably along a distance TD which is about 0.1 times the thickness T of the floor.

The significance of the contact angle will now be explained with reference to Figures 12a-13d.

Figure 12a shows a locking system for a long edge 1 * ', 1', and a locking system for a short edge 1, 1 'in a floor system intended to be locked with vertical folding. Figure 12b shows the position of the sliding surface 23 on the folding panel 1 'seen from the second panel towards the folding panel 1'. Figure 12c shows the position of the sliding surface 32 and the tip of the flexible tongue 31 when the first 1 "and the second panel 1 lie flat on the floor. Figure 13a shows that the edge of the flexible tongue 30 is positioned at a distance FD from the first panel 1 "long edge.

Figure 13b shows the folding of the new panel 1 'when it is almost at the contact angle. Due to the chamfered sliding surfaces 23, 32, there is still no contact between the folding panel 1 'and the flexible tongue 30, Figure 13c shows the contact angle, which in this embodiment is 10 degrees.

The sliding surfaces 32, 23 overlap at an initial contact point CP5. Additional angling will begin to create a gradually increasing separation pressure between the short edges of the panels 1, 1 'as a larger portion of the TPC of the flexible tongue will be pressed horizontally by the sliding surface 23 of the folding panel 1' as shown in Figure 13d. Figures 144a and 14b show the position of the flexible tongue 30 in two embodiments according to the invention. The edge of the flexible tongue is in figure 14a placed in a position FD1 near the long edge 5b, for example about 15 mm from the edge.

Such a locking system will have a contact angle of about 10 degrees in a laminate floor of normal thickness.

The contact angle could be smaller if the edge of the tongue is positioned at a distance FD2 further away from the long edge 5b, as shown in Figure 14b. In this case, locking systems with a smaller contact angle could be used.

Such an embodiment could be sufficient in thick and stable floor panels or in narrow floor panels.

In thinner floorboards, for example 6-8 mm laminate and veneer floors, it is advantageous if the flexible tongue could lock the short edges near the long edge and along a significant stretch of the short edge. Figures 14c and 14d show the flexible tongue in a substantially contact position when the first part of the flexible tongue 30 is pressed horizontally. It is obvious that the separation pressure will increase as a larger part of the tongue is pressed horizontally laterally during the folding movement.

These and previously described embodiments show that the locking system of the long and the short edge are interdependent, and that they must be adapted to each other in order to guarantee a simple and reliable locking function.

Figures 15a-c show friction aids 53, 53 ', which in this embodiment are designed as small local projections on the upper part of the locking rail 6 on the rail panel 1, and on the lower part of the tongue or on the groove panel 1'. Such protrusions could be formed on other surfaces of the locking system, and they will prevent displacement at 10 15 20 25 30 532 GB? 36 large angles where, for example, there are only two contact points as shown in figure l5a. The friction aids could also comprise optional types of materials or chemicals, such as small hard particles, rubber, binders and similar materials which are applied in the locking systems. Preferred materials are soft waxes such as microcrystalline waxes or paraffin-based waxes, which could be applied to one or more surfaces in the locking system, for example on the tongue and / or on the tongue groove, on the rail, on the locking element and / or in the locking groove, on a or both conduit surfaces, etc., and these could increase the initial friction between especially HDF surfaces. The above-mentioned friction aids could be combined.

Local small protrusions could, for example, be combined with wax or chemicals.

Figures 16a ~ d show methods for measuring friction between long edges of floor panels. A sample of a track panel 1 'with a width W2 of about 200 mm is pressed with a compressive force F1 which is 10 N at an angle A to a rail panel 1 ", which is fixed and has a width W1 exceeding 200 mm. The compressive force F1 is applied The offset friction is defined as the maximum force F2 required to displace the track panel 1 'along the joint. laminated panel with a surface of printed paper impregnated with thermosetting plastics and with an HDF core.

The displacement friction at an installation angle IA is about 10 N, and almost the same at a contact angle CA which is 10 degrees. The friction angle FA in this test is about 5 degrees. Many HDF-based locking systems on the market have a 10 15 20 25 30 533 EÜ? 37 displacement friction below 10 N at the installation angle.

The friction could be as low as 5 N. In such a locking system, the long edges will only contribute marginally to counteract displacement of the short edges at the initial stage of the vertical fold, since the friction angle is smaller than the contact angle. . The curve Fb shows a special locking system where the friction, thanks to the geometry of the locking system, at an installation angle is higher than at a smaller angle. The invention is based on the principle that the friction should be increased at the contact angle compared to an installation angle or some other angle between the installation angle and the contact angle, where the frictional force is at its lowest level. A preferred embodiment is that the friction at the contact angle exceeds 15 N and even more preferably 20 N. A preferred embodiment is also a vertical locking system with a flexible tongue which creates a tongue pressure which is above 20 N, even above 30 N.

There are locking systems on the market that show quite high friction at large angles. Such locking systems are not possible during installation to angle down from an installation angle to a contact angle or a line angle in the normal way with a pressure F1 which is 10 N, corresponding to a compressive force of 60 N applied to a floor panel which is 120 cm, and these are of a type of locking system where the angle must be combined with very hard pressure or a snap movement in an angled position. Such locking systems are not used in vertical folding systems. These are not excluded in accordance with the invention, but they are not favorable in a vertical folding system because they only marginally, and in some specific applications, improve the installation compared to traditionally used installation with angling 10 15 20 25 30 532 EC? 38 of short and long edges, snap fastening (clicking) of short and long edges or angling of long edges and snap fastening (clicking) of short edges.

Figure 16c shows a better locking system in accordance with the invention where the friction angle FA is about 15 degrees, and the contact angle CA 10 degrees. The friction angle FA is larger than the contact angle CA, and the friction between the long edges has increased significantly at the contact angle CA compared to the installation angle IA. Figure 16d shows how two samples 1, 1 ', with the width W3 200 mm are installed without separation of the short edges when the folding panel is pressed against the subfloor without pressure laterally against the short edge, in case the panels have locking systems in accordance with the invention. The test could also be performed with a full-size panel 1 and a panel 1 'cut to a length of about 20 cm.

Figures 17a-c show how the locking system in Figure 11 could be set in order to create a friction with initially three contact points CP3, CP1 and CP4. The friction is obtained mainly by the pressure between the locking element 8 / locking groove 14 and the upper part of the tongue 10 / tongue groove 9. In this embodiment the tongue has a lower part 54 which is substantially parallel to the horizontal plane HP, and which extends from the vertical plane preferably along a shorter distance TD than in Figure 11, and which is less than 0.1 times the thickness T of the floor.

Figure 18a ~ l8c shows that the locking system in figure ll could also be set in order to create a friction with initially three other contact points CP3, CP1 and CP3. The friction is obtained mainly by the pressure between the upper and 10 15 20 25 30 532 EÜ? 39 the lower parts of the tongue 10 / tongue groove 9. In this embodiment the tongue has a lower part 54 which is substantially parallel to the horizontal plane HP, and which extends from the vertical plane, preferably along the same distance TD as in figure ll. However, the height LH of the locking element is lower. Friction aid 53 is shown in the form of wax on the lower part of the tongue 10. The wax should preferably be quite soft, and it should preferably be possible to deform at an angle. This soft wax will prevent initial displacement along the joint. Such wax could be applied to all locking systems, and it would prevent displacement, especially to surfaces made of HDF.

Figures 17 and 18 show that a variety of combinations of friction angles and friction points could be obtained if the dimensions of the tongue 10, the groove 9, the rail 6 of the locking element 8 and the locking groove 14 are adapted.

Figure 19a shows an embodiment with a friction angle of 20 degrees, where the friction is obtained with only two contact points CP1 and CP2 between the upper and lower parts of the tongue 10 / tongue groove 9. In this embodiment the tongue also has a lower part 54 , which is substantially parallel to the horizontal plane HP, and which extends from the vertical plane along a distance TD which is more than 0.2 times the thickness T of the floor. In this embodiment the tongue has a space 55 between the lower part of the tongue and the tongue groove, which facilitates locking and which enables the conductor surfaces 11, 12 to overlap at a large angle of, for example, 15 degrees as shown in Figure 19b.

Figures 20a-c show that it is possible to design a locking system with three contact points CP3, CP1 and CP2 at an input 532 ED? Installation angle of 25 degrees as shown in Figure 20a.

The locking element has been made even higher (LH) than in previous embodiments, and the groove panel 1 'has a projection 56 between the tongue 10 and the tongue groove 9. The upper part of the tongue has an angle to the horizontal plane, and this facilitates machining of the tongue groove 9 with large rotary tools.

A simple vertical locking on the short edge does not contribute with any significant improvement compared to today's technology if it is not combined with a well-functioning locking system for the long edge, with superior guide and locking properties that enable connection of long and short edges with a simple angular movement. As can be seen from the embodiments shown in, for example, Figures 10b, 11a, 17a, 130, 18b, 19b and 20b, it is possible to form a locking system with a combined friction angle and conduction angle and with a locking element 8 and a locking groove 14, which holds the folding panel. in an angled position. The only movement then required to lock the panels is a vertical pressing on the folding panel near the short edges.

An installation method for three panels is indicated where the first 1 "and the second panel 1 lie flat on the subfloor with the long edges connected to each other as shown in Figure 7a, for example. The method comprises the steps of a) placing a new panel 1 'in an angled position with a long edge 5a in contact with an upper part of a long edge 5b on the first panel 1 "and b) bringing a short edge 4b on the new panel 1 'into contact with a short edge 4a on the second panel 1, on so 10 15 20 25 30 532 EÜ? 41 way that the new panel 1 'is held in this position by the locking system on the long and / or short edges. It must be possible to hold the new panel 1 'in this position with the cable surface on the locking element and the locking groove shown in figure 10a, and / or with the edge of the flexible tongue. c) pressing a section of a short edge of the new panels downwards towards the floor and thereby connecting the first, second and third panels to each other with vertical folding, preferably without any major visible gaps between the short edges.

With this installation procedure, floor panels can be kept in an angled position with, for example, the pipe surfaces 11, 12 as shown in figure 10. This will facilitate installation as the installer can change the position of the hands from a first position where the panel is brought to an installation angle of 25 degrees. , is pressed against the edge of the already installed first panel 1 ", and preferably angled down slightly to the friction and conduction angle.

The installer can then move his hands to another position which is suitable for pressing down preferably both the short edge sections of the panel against the subfloor.

The guide surfaces will lead the locking element into the locking groove, and the tongue into the tongue groove. The friction between long edges will prevent displacement. The advantage is that the combined movements of pressing the upper edges together at an angle, pressing the panel sideways to avoid separating short edges and folding the panel down towards the floor, could be avoided and replaced with two or three separate and simple independent movements.

Claims (10)

10 15 20 25 30 532 EÜ? 42 PATENT REQUIREMENTS A set of substantially identical floor panels (1, 1 ', 1 "), each comprising long (Sa, 5b) and short edges (4a, 4b) provided with first and second coupling details (9, 10 , 6, 8, 14, 20, 30), which coupling details are integrated with the floor panels and configured to connect adjacent edges, the first coupling part comprising a locking rail (6) with an upwardly directed locking element (8) at one edge of a floor panel, and a downwardly open locking groove (14) at an adjacent edge of another floor panel, for interconnecting the adjacent edges horizontally in a direction at right angles to the adjacent edges, the second coupling member comprising a tongue (10, 30) at an edge of a floor panel, which extends horizontally and at right angles to the edge, and a horizontal open tongue groove (9, 20) in an adjacent edge of another floor panel, for connecting the adjacent edges in the vertical direction, which coupling details at the long edges are configured to lock at an angle, and the coupling details at the short edges are configured for locking with vertical folding, whereby a long edge of a new panel (1 ') in a second row (R2) is configured to be coupled with a long edge (5b) of a first panel (1 ") in a first row (R1) by angling, a short edge (4b) of the new (1 ') (1) in a second row (R2) being configured to connect the panel and a short edge (4a) on a second panel with the same angular movement, characterized in that the coupling details (9, 10, 6, 8, 14) on the long edges have at least three separate contact points (CP1, CP2, CP3, CP4 ) or contact surfaces between adjacent parts of 10 15 20 25 EEE GÛ? 43 the coupling details when the new panel (l ') is pressed with its upper edge against the upper edge of the first panel (l ") at an angle to the main plane (HP) of at least 10 degrees. A set of floor panels according to claim 1, wherein the tongue at the short edges is made of a separate material, and has a flexible part configured to be displaced horizontally when folded, and to cooperate with the tongue groove in the adjacent short edge to lock together the floor panels in the vertical direction (Dl), parallel to the vertical plane (VP). A set of floor panels according to claim 2, wherein the long edges have at least four contact points (CPI, CP2, CP3, CP4). A set of floor panels according to claim 3, wherein the long edges have vertical upper (CP1) and lower (CP2) (CP3) and outer (CP4) contact points between adjacent surfaces of the first and contact points and horizontal inner second long edges when the new panel pressed with its upper edge against the upper edge of the first panel at an angle to the main plane between 0 and 10 degrees. A set of floor panels according to claim 2, wherein the tongue has an arcuate part which is flexible in the longitudinal direction. A set of floor panels according to claim 2, wherein the tongue has flexible projections. A set of floor panels according to any one of claims 2-6, wherein the tongue is connected in a displacement groove, and wherein a part of the tongue is displaced in the displacement groove. 533 EG? 44 A set of floor panels according to claim 2, wherein the flexible part is a snap tab. A set of floor panels according to claim 8, wherein the flexible part is a snap tab on the rail panel and where the snap tab extends downwards. A set of floor panels according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the angle is at least 15 degrees.