US20140215946A1 - Covering Panel and Method for Assembling a Plurality of Same - Google Patents

Covering Panel and Method for Assembling a Plurality of Same Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US20140215946A1
US20140215946A1 US13/823,418 US201213823418A US2014215946A1 US 20140215946 A1 US20140215946 A1 US 20140215946A1 US 201213823418 A US201213823418 A US 201213823418A US 2014215946 A1 US2014215946 A1 US 2014215946A1
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
lip
flange
canceled
mushroom
groove
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
US13/823,418
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Norman Roy
Benoit Fortin
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
DISTRIBUTION DUROY Inc
Original Assignee
DISTRIBUTION DUROY Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by DISTRIBUTION DUROY Inc filed Critical DISTRIBUTION DUROY Inc
Priority to US13/823,418 priority Critical patent/US20140215946A1/en
Assigned to DISTRIBUTION DUROY INC. reassignment DISTRIBUTION DUROY INC. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: FORTIN, BENOIT, ROY, Norman
Publication of US20140215946A1 publication Critical patent/US20140215946A1/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
    • E04F15/00—Flooring
    • E04F15/02—Flooring or floor layers composed of a number of similar elements
    • E04F15/02038—Flooring or floor layers composed of a number of similar elements characterised by tongue and groove connections between neighbouring flooring elements
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04C—STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS; BUILDING MATERIALS
    • E04C2/00—Building elements of relatively thin form for the construction of parts of buildings, e.g. sheet materials, slabs, or panels
    • E04C2/30—Building elements of relatively thin form for the construction of parts of buildings, e.g. sheet materials, slabs, or panels characterised by the shape or structure
    • E04C2/40—Building elements of relatively thin form for the construction of parts of buildings, e.g. sheet materials, slabs, or panels characterised by the shape or structure composed of a number of smaller components rigidly or movably connected together, e.g. interlocking, hingedly connected of particular shape, e.g. not rectangular of variable shape or size, e.g. flexible or telescopic panels
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
    • E04F13/00—Coverings or linings, e.g. for walls or ceilings
    • E04F13/07—Coverings or linings, e.g. for walls or ceilings composed of covering or lining elements; Sub-structures therefor; Fastening means therefor
    • E04F13/08—Coverings or linings, e.g. for walls or ceilings composed of covering or lining elements; Sub-structures therefor; Fastening means therefor composed of a plurality of similar covering or lining elements
    • E04F13/0889—Coverings or linings, e.g. for walls or ceilings composed of covering or lining elements; Sub-structures therefor; Fastening means therefor composed of a plurality of similar covering or lining elements characterised by the joints between neighbouring elements, e.g. with joint fillings or with tongue and groove connections
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
    • E04F15/00—Flooring
    • E04F15/02—Flooring or floor layers composed of a number of similar elements
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
    • E04F15/00—Flooring
    • E04F15/02—Flooring or floor layers composed of a number of similar elements
    • E04F15/10—Flooring or floor layers composed of a number of similar elements of other materials, e.g. fibrous or chipped materials, organic plastics, magnesite tiles, hardboard, or with a top layer of other materials
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
    • E04F15/00—Flooring
    • E04F15/02—Flooring or floor layers composed of a number of similar elements
    • E04F15/10—Flooring or floor layers composed of a number of similar elements of other materials, e.g. fibrous or chipped materials, organic plastics, magnesite tiles, hardboard, or with a top layer of other materials
    • E04F15/105—Flooring or floor layers composed of a number of similar elements of other materials, e.g. fibrous or chipped materials, organic plastics, magnesite tiles, hardboard, or with a top layer of other materials of organic plastics with or without reinforcements or filling materials
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
    • E04F2201/00—Joining sheets or plates or panels
    • E04F2201/01—Joining sheets, plates or panels with edges in abutting relationship
    • E04F2201/0138—Joining sheets, plates or panels with edges in abutting relationship by moving the sheets, plates or panels perpendicular to the main plane
    • E04F2201/0146—Joining sheets, plates or panels with edges in abutting relationship by moving the sheets, plates or panels perpendicular to the main plane with snap action of the edge connectors
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
    • E04F2201/00—Joining sheets or plates or panels
    • E04F2201/01—Joining sheets, plates or panels with edges in abutting relationship
    • E04F2201/0153—Joining sheets, plates or panels with edges in abutting relationship by rotating the sheets, plates or panels around an axis which is parallel to the abutting edges, possibly combined with a sliding movement
    • E04F2201/0161—Joining sheets, plates or panels with edges in abutting relationship by rotating the sheets, plates or panels around an axis which is parallel to the abutting edges, possibly combined with a sliding movement with snap action of the edge connectors

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to panels for covering surfaces. More particularly, the present invention relates to a covering panel and a method for assembling a plurality of the same.
  • Panels for covering surfaces such as walls, floors, ceilings, etc. are known in the art.
  • the concept of glueless click vinyl flooring is also known.
  • FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate such flooring.
  • U.S. Pat. No. 6,006,486 to Moriau et al. which relates to hard floor panels having coupling parts that cooperate with each other.
  • the coupling parts are in the form of a tongue and a groove, the coupling parts having integrated mechanical locking elements which prevent the drifting apart of two coupled floor panels.
  • U.S. Pat. No. 3,694,983 to Couquet relates to plastic tiles for flooring. Each tile is secured to a backing of same dimensions but projecting along two adjacent edges of the tile to form an embedded strip provided with means permitting the mutual engagement of fastening means.
  • a tapping block is needed for the installation) because vinyl flooring is a soft product (unlike High-Density Fiberboard, or HDF, which is used for laminate flooring), and the plank will bend while trying to click the planks together; d) other vinyl click flooring that have vertical locking systems often do not have vertical retention (compression and locking of the two pieces), therefore the sides and ends unclick when exposed to heat or high levels of traffic; e) conventional floor systems often do not function as well or are not as appealing when the temperature in rooms in which they are installed exceeds or drops below a certain range, which can reduce the utility of these systems in many circumstances.
  • HDF High-Density Fiberboard
  • the present invention relates to a covering panel, such as a floor panel, which by virtue of its design and components, satisfies some of the above-mentioned needs and is thus an improvement over other related planks, panels, assemblies, and/or methods known in the art.
  • a floor panel comprising:
  • the flange base and the flange cap form a mushroom-shaped projection which can be elastically deformed so as to fit into the at least one groove.
  • the mushroom-shaped projection is compressed via an external force applied by the user into the at least one groove of another floor panel.
  • the at least one groove can also be mushroom-shaped.
  • the elongated core is rectangular, making the panel rectangular as well.
  • the core, as well as the flange and the groove, may be made from a flexible material such as a macromolecule material, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), vinyl, and unplasticized polyvinyl chloride (uPVC).
  • PVC polyvinyl chloride
  • uPVC unplasticized polyvinyl chloride
  • a covering panel comprising:
  • a connection noise is produced when compressively receiving the at least one flange in the at least one groove. This alerts the installer or user that a secure connection has been established.
  • a floor panel comprising:
  • a floor panel assembly comprising:
  • a method of assembling a plurality of floor panels comprising the steps of:
  • each floor panel comprising at least one lip projecting from a corresponding edge of the floor panel and extending along at least a portion of said edge, each lip being provided with at least one flange projecting from the lip and at least one groove being substantially contiguous with the flange;
  • step b) includes inserting the lip of the first panel at an angle, such as ninety degrees, with respect to the lip of the second panel which remains laid out against the floor. This may form a pivot point about which the first panel may be rotated downward (for applying a compressive force and thus assembling the first and second panels), or upward (thereby allowing the first and second panels to disassemble).
  • a method for manufacturing a panel for compressively engaging with another similar plank comprising the steps of:
  • FIGS. 1 and 2 are views of flooring systems known in the art.
  • FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a covering panel, according to an optional embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 3A is an enlarged view of lips of the covering panel of FIG. 3 .
  • FIG. 4 is a side elevational view of a first lip and a second lip being aligned, according to another optional embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 5 is a side elevational view of the lips of FIG. 4 , the first lip shown angled with respect to the second lip.
  • FIG. 6 is a side elevational view of the lips of FIG. 4 , the lips shown as compressed together.
  • FIG. 7 is a side elevational view of a different set of lips, according to another optional embodiment of the present invention.
  • the present invention was primarily designed for being used for assembling covering panels so as to cover or install them on a planar surface, it may be used with other types of materials and objects and in other fields. For this reason, expressions such as “floor”, “planar surface”, “plank”, “panel”, etc., as used herein should not be taken as to limit the scope of the present invention, which includes all other kinds of materials, objects and/or purposes with which the present invention could be used and may be useful.
  • the present invention relates to a covering panel.
  • the covering panel can be any plank, slat, board, strip, etc. of any shape which is capable of overlaying, concealing, protecting, etc. a surface, such as a planar surface. Some of these surfaces can include a floor, a wall, a ceiling, etc.
  • a floor panel for being applied to floors.
  • FIGS. 3 and 3A illustrate an example of a floor panel 10 (or simply “panel”).
  • the panel 10 can be of any shape suitable for the surface to which the panel 10 can be applied. For example, when being applied to floors, it is often useful that the panel 10 be rectangular in shape, and thus the panel 10 will be longer than it is wide. In such a rectangular configuration, the panel 10 may have a plurality of edges 12 , such as four edges 12 , which can be arranged in opposed and perpendicular relation to each other.
  • the panel 10 can be made of any number of materials including, but not limited to, PVC and vinyl.
  • Each panel 10 may include a core 14 which can have different densities and chemical properties depending on the application for which the panel 10 will be used.
  • the material make-up of the core 14 and/or panel 10 can also depend on other factors, such as durability, cost effectiveness, material availability, environmental qualities, etc.
  • Some examples of materials used to make the core 14 can include elastomeric materials such as a macromolecule material, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), vinyl, and unplasticized polyvinyl chloride (uPVC).
  • At least one surface of the panel 10 can be laminated.
  • the usable surface 16 refers to the surface of the panel 10 with which the user interacts. Where the panel 10 is used to cover floors, for example, the usable surface 16 would be the surface upon which the user places his/her feet.
  • the usable surface 16 can be laminated with a finishing layer (with or without a wear layer), for example, and a base layer serving as a waterproof or insulation coating. Other types of laminations are within the scope of the present invention, and depend upon the applications for which the panel 10 would be used.
  • the usable surface 16 can be laminated and/or coated with a fire-retardant film so as to improve the fire resistance of the panel 10 .
  • the panel 10 has a plurality of lips 20 .
  • Each lip 20 can serve as the interface between two panels 10 , allowing both panels 10 to connect with each other so as to cover more of the surface to which they are applied.
  • plural it is understood that there is more than one lip 20 on each panel 10 , although a panel 10 having only one lip 20 is within the scope of the present invention.
  • four lips 20 are shown, the lips 20 being in opposed spaced and perpendicular relation to each other.
  • the disposition of the lips 20 about the panel 10 can vary.
  • the panel 10 has at least two lips 20 , each lip 20 being opposed to another lip 20 .
  • one lip 20 can be situated on one longitudinal side of the panel 10
  • the other lip 20 can be situated on the other, opposed longitudinal side of the panel 10 .
  • opposed lips 20 can face in opposite directions.
  • one of the lips 20 can be facing downward (i.e. toward a floor, for example) and the other, opposed lip 20 can be facing upward (i.e. toward the user, or away from the surface being covered).
  • This configuration of lips 20 allows for a mostly seamless connection of adjacent panels 10 because the downward-facing lip 20 can be covered with the usable surface 16 and placed over the upward-facing lip 20 , and the two lips 20 can be connected together, thus connecting the panels 10 .
  • the appearance of continuity in the usable surface 16 is undisturbed at the connection point of adjacent panels 10 .
  • Each lip 20 is any thin, flat surface which extends or projects from a corresponding edge 12 of the panel 10 and runs along either some, or all, of the length of the edge 12 . In so doing, the lip 20 can be parallel to the edge 12 .
  • the lip 20 can have a lip thickness that is thinner than the thickness of the panel 10 and/or core 14 to which it is attached.
  • the distance the lip 20 extends which is also known as its width W, depends on the application for which the lip 20 and/or panel 10 is to be used, and can vary based on the strength of the connection required between corresponding lips 20 , the surface upon which the panel 10 is laid, and other such factors.
  • the lip 20 can extend perpendicularly from its corresponding edge 12 , although extensions at an angle or circumferentially are possible, depending on, among other things, the area in which the panel 10 will be installed and the configuration of the panel 10 itself.
  • each lip is configured for compressively engaging with a corresponding lip 20 of another or same panel 10 , thus joining both panels 10 .
  • the expression “compressively engage” can signify the application of a compressive, clamping, pinch-like, etc. force to one lip 20 , or both lips 20 of two panels 10 , so that the lips 20 securely engage or connect with each other, thus joining both panels 10 , as further explained below. Therefore, each lip 20 can be made of elastically deformable materials such as, but not limited to a macromolecule material, PVC, vinyl and/or unplasticized polyvinyl chloride (uPVC), which allow the lip 20 to temporarily deform in response to a compressive applied pressure.
  • PVC macromolecule material
  • uPVC unplasticized polyvinyl chloride
  • each lip 20 is provided with at least one flange 24 and at least one groove 22 .
  • at least one it is understood that each lip 20 can be provided with one or more flange 24 or groove 22 .
  • each lip 20 has two flanges 24 , and two grooves 22 .
  • the flange 24 and the groove 22 are substantially contiguous, which can mean that they share a common border. This contiguity may facilitate securing of the flanges 24 with the grooves 22 through the complementary nature of their respective profiles.
  • Such contiguous complementary profiles allow compression of the flanges 24 for insertion and securing in the corresponding grooves 22 under a given pressure, while resisting unlocking of the interface as a significantly higher force is required to unlock the interface.
  • the flange 24 is shown as neighbouring or abutting against the groove 22 , such that the flange 24 ends where the groove 22 begins.
  • the groove 22 can run along at least a portion of the length of the lip 20 , and optionally along the entire length of the lip 20 .
  • the groove 22 may be any channel or depression in the lip 20 which runs parallel to the edge 12 of the panel 10 , and which receives a corresponding flange 24 , as explained below.
  • the groove 22 may be preferably situated directly next to the edge 12 of the panel 10 .
  • the groove 22 can be made of elastically deformable materials such as, but not limited to, a macromolecule material, PVC, vinyl and/or unplasticized polyvinyl chloride (uPVC), which allow the groove 22 to temporarily deform when it compressively receives a corresponding flange 24 , as explained below.
  • uPVC unplasticized polyvinyl chloride
  • Each lip 20 is also provided with a flange 24 , which can run parallel and next to the groove 22 of the lip 20 .
  • the flange 24 may run the same length as the adjacent groove 22 , and may be situated further away from the edge 12 than the groove 22 .
  • the flange 24 may be any projection or protrusion from the lip 20 which can be inserted into a corresponding groove 22 so as to compressively engage the groove 22 .
  • the flange 24 may be also made of elastically deformable materials such as, but not limited to, a macromolecule material, PVC, vinyl and/or uPVC, which allow the flange 24 to temporarily compress when being compressively received by a corresponding groove 22 , and to expand when reaching the end of said groove 22 .
  • first and second and a” and “b” as used herein do not limit the number of panels 10 that can be applied to a surface to only two panels 10 , and are used simply to facilitate the explanation of the optional interaction of two panels 10 a , 10 b.
  • the profile of the flange 24 can be a substantially mushroom-shaped projection 25 a , 25 b protruding from the lip 20 (or cut into the lip 20 ), and running the length of the flange 24 .
  • the expression “mushroom-shaped” as used to describe the shape and/or profile of the flange 24 can mean that the mushroom-shaped projection 25 a , 25 b consists of a substantially linear flange base 26 a , 26 b which is topped by a flange cap 28 a , 28 b which extends slightly beyond the flange base 26 a , 26 b, or is wider than the flange base 26 a , 26 b.
  • This profile allows the flange 24 to be inserted into a corresponding groove 22 , and secured therein, as explained below. As mentioned above, such a profile allows compression of the flange 24 for insertion and securing in the groove 22 under a given pressure, while resisting unlocking of the interface as a significantly higher force is required to unlock the interface.
  • the groove 22 next to the mushroom-shaped projection 25 a, as well as the groove 22 of another panel 10 b, may be configured to have a profile that is substantially similar or complementary, to the mushroom-shaped projections 25 a , 25 b.
  • the groove 22 a is substantially complementary to either the flange base 26 a or the flange cap 28 a of the same lip 20 a.
  • the groove 22 a can also be substantially complementary to both the flange base 26 a and the flange cap 28 a of the same lip 20 a.
  • the groove 22 includes a groove passage 30 a , 30 b and a groove bottom 32 a , 32 b.
  • Such a groove profile is referred to herein as a mushroom-shaped depression 23 , and there can be two such mushroom-shaped depressions 23 a , 23 b.
  • the expression “substantially complementary” can mean that a mushroom-shaped projection 25 a and a mushroom-shaped depression 23 a can be of the same shape or profile, such that they compressively combine so as to form a secure, frictional fit.
  • the mushroom-shaped depression 23 a and the mushroom-shaped projection 25 a are inverse, mirror images of one another. In this same configuration, they are also contiguous, as explained above.
  • the mushroom-shaped depressions 23 a , 23 b can be any mushroom-shaped channel running along a portion, or the entire length, of the groove 22 .
  • the profile of the groove 22 can align with that of the corresponding flange 24 being inserted therein.
  • align it is understood that the flange caps 28 a , 28 b of mushroom-shaped projections 25 a , 25 b substantially line up with the groove passages 30 a , 30 b of the mushroom-shaped depressions 23 a , 23 b into which they are inserted, as explained below.
  • the profile of the flange 24 and/or groove 22 is not limited to a substantially mushroom shape, and can consist of other shapes, profiles and/or configurations, or have different dimensions, that perform the same function and/or have the same attributes which include, but are not limited to, providing a compressive engagement of one lip 20 to another which produces an audible clicking noise once the user applies a compressive force to one of the lips 20 .
  • connection of multiple panels 10 will now be described with reference to the exemplified configuration of the two panels 10 a , 10 b of FIGS. 4 to 6 .
  • the user first places the lip 20 b of the second panel 10 b over the lip 20 a of the first panel 10 a.
  • This technique can allow for the lips 20 a , 20 b to align such that the second flange 24 b is substantially over the first groove 22 a, and the second groove 22 b is substantially over the first flange 24 a.
  • This technique can be referred to as the “horizontal configuration” since the lips 20 a , 20 b are overlayed in a horizontal manner.
  • the grooves/flanges do not have to be perfectly aligned because the alignment can autocorrect when the user applies a force.
  • the user applies a downward or compressive force F to the second panel 10 b, or to both panels 10 a , 10 b, thereby pushing the second flange 24 b into the first groove 22 a, and to have the first flange 24 a be compressively received into the second groove 22 b.
  • the application of force by the user can be performed by the user's hand, or with a tapping block, rubber hammer, elastomer roller and/or other similar tools.
  • the flange cap 28 b of the mushroom-shaped projection 25 b compressively and elastically deforms as it moves downward through the groove passage 30 a of the mushroom-shaped depression 23 a .
  • the compressed flange cap 28 b eventually expand once it reaches the groove bottom 32 a of the mushroom-shaped depression 23 a, which temporarily deforms the mushroom-shaped depression 23 a /groove bottom 32 a into which it is inserted, thus providing a tight fit or frictional engagement.
  • This expansion and its impact against the walls of the groove bottoms 32 a , 32 b can produce a connection noise, such as a click, alerting the user that a secure connection has been established.
  • first mushroom-shaped projection 25 a and the second mushroom-shaped depression 23 b undergo a similar compression/expansion, and produce a similar connection noise.
  • the lips 20 a , 20 b of the panels 10 a , 10 b, and consequently, the panels 10 a , 10 b themselves, are securely connected to each other, as illustrated in FIG. 6 .
  • the expansion of the mushroom-shaped projections 25 a , 25 b once they reach the ends of the mushroom-shaped depressions 23 a , 23 b releases a spring-like force which secures the flanges 24 a , 24 b in their corresponding grooves 22 a , 22 b because the abutting, inversely-adjacent flange caps 28 a , 28 b of respective flanges 24 a , 24 b prevent vertical displacement of the flanges 24 a , 24 b . Horizontal or separating displacement is equally prevented because the flange bases 26 a , 26 b and flange caps 28 a , 28 b are tightly fitted and/or frictionally engaged to one another.
  • the engagement of the lips 20 a , 20 b described above is not limited to two panels 10 , and may comprise connecting lips 20 on multiple panels 10 .
  • a lip 20 on an opposite edge 12 of the lip 20 a of the first panel 10 a shown in FIG. 4 may be compressively engaged with the lip 20 of a third panel 10 .
  • Other panel 10 /lip 20 /edge 12 configurations and engagements are also possible, and within the scope of the present invention.
  • the lip 20 b of the second panel 10 b can also be inserted at an angle ⁇ circle around (-) ⁇ to the lip 20 a of the first panel 10 a, where the first panel is placed on the planar surface (i.e. floor) to be covered.
  • This insertion at angle ⁇ circle around (-) ⁇ may facilitate entry of the mushroom-shaped projection 25 b of the second lip 20 b into the corresponding first groove 22 a by allowing the second flange cap 28 b to be more easily inserted into the mushroom-shaped depression 23 a.
  • the user can then easily “snap” or “click” the second lip 20 b onto the first lip 20 a to join the lips 20 a , 20 b and the panels 10 a , 10 b.
  • the second flange cap 28 b is entered at angle ⁇ circle around (-) ⁇ into the corresponding first groove 22 a, and the second flange 24 b may rest on any one of the following surfaces: the mushroom-shaped depression 23 a, the first flange 24 a and/or anywhere else on the first lip 20 a.
  • This provides a fulcrum or pivot point about which the second panel 10 b may pivot. Therefore, the second panel 10 b is transformed into a moment arm having a length roughly equal to the width of the second panel 10 b, and the second panel 10 b can be rotated downwards in direction D (i.e. clockwise in FIG.
  • FIG. 6 shows the lips 20 a , 20 b in substantially compressed engagement, as described above. Once compressively engaged, the panels 10 a , 10 b are substantially seamlessly connected so that a user will not feel or perceive their junction, thus providing a smooth and continuous floor panel assembly and/or flooring.
  • the assembly of panels 10 has been described above, but it is within the scope of the present invention to easily disassemble connected panels 10 as well.
  • the panels 10 described herein are both easily installed, and easily removed.
  • the removal of the panels 10 does not necessitate complex and expensive hand tools.
  • the user can simply rotate the second panel 10 b upwards, opposite direction D in FIG. 5 (or counter clockwise), which causes the second flange 24 b and second groove 22 b to disengage from the first groove 22 a and the first flange 24 a, respectively.
  • the second panel 10 b is then easily removed from the first panel 10 a , and this process is repeated for all panels 10 that require removing.
  • the covering panel according to the present invention is a device which, in its some of its optional implementations, is a panel 10 for compressively and securely engaging with a plurality of other panels 10 , so as to form a floor panel assembly installed onto a planar surface.
  • the present invention is a substantial improvement over the prior art in that, by virtue of its design and components, the panel 10 is simple and easy to install onto another panel 10 , as well as simple and easy to manufacture and/or assemble, without compromising the reliability of its functions.
  • the present invention represents important advantages over other floors and/or flooring systems known in the art, in that the panel 10 can be used, though not necessarily exclusively, as a component of a flooring system that is easily installed without the use of tools, as briefly explained hereinabove.
  • the panels 10 described herein can be assembled together without tools (also referred to as a “DIY click vinyl floor”) in both commercial and residential environments, thereby greatly facilitating the task of the lay user.
  • tools also referred to as a “DIY click vinyl floor”
  • the flange 24 and groove 22 are capable of temporarily plastically deforming when compressed to fit together, which provides for a secured connection when the flange 24 returns to its shape in the groove 22 .
  • the substantially mushroom-shaped flange 24 allows for a rapid and tools-free installation and/or removal which reduces costs and labour, provides a secure connection between panels 10 , and allows the panels 10 to be easily removed should the need arise.
  • the groove 22 is also temporarily deformable such that when the flange 24 is removed therefrom, the groove 22 can advantageously return to its original shape, which preserves the durability of the panel 10 and allows for its reuse.
  • the installation of the panel 10 is further advantageously aided by the ability to install a second panel 10 at an angle, which reduces the force needed by the user to secure or click the second panel 10 b to the first 10 a.
  • the panel 10 can be applied on any floor and/or flooring system.
  • the clicking noise that can be produced when installing the panels 10 together beneficially allows the user to know when the panel 10 is correctly and securely installed.
  • a further advantage that arises when connecting the panels 10 vertically is that it allows for the use of thinner core, in the order of about 3 to about 4 millimetres, when compared to conventional horizontally-connected panels which have a thickness of about 5 millimetres. This reduction of about 20% in the thickness of the core can reduce the material and manufacturing cost per panel.
  • the laminated PVC panels 10 allow for their use in a multitude of environments such as moist, dry, high-impact, etc. Equally beneficially, the groove 22 /flange 24 configuration allows for the rapid alignment of two panels 10 and allows for their interlocking by applying a light pressure.
US13/823,418 2011-09-28 2012-08-23 Covering Panel and Method for Assembling a Plurality of Same Abandoned US20140215946A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US13/823,418 US20140215946A1 (en) 2011-09-28 2012-08-23 Covering Panel and Method for Assembling a Plurality of Same

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US201161540060P 2011-09-28 2011-09-28
PCT/CA2012/050583 WO2013044377A1 (fr) 2011-09-28 2012-08-23 Panneau de couverture et procédé d'assemblage d'une pluralité de panneaux de couverture
US13/823,418 US20140215946A1 (en) 2011-09-28 2012-08-23 Covering Panel and Method for Assembling a Plurality of Same

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20140215946A1 true US20140215946A1 (en) 2014-08-07

Family

ID=47994074

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US13/823,418 Abandoned US20140215946A1 (en) 2011-09-28 2012-08-23 Covering Panel and Method for Assembling a Plurality of Same

Country Status (3)

Country Link
US (1) US20140215946A1 (fr)
CA (1) CA2809984C (fr)
WO (1) WO2013044377A1 (fr)

Cited By (16)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20150240500A1 (en) * 2012-08-27 2015-08-27 Pergo (Europe) Ab Panel
US20170370109A1 (en) * 2015-01-16 2017-12-28 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor panel for forming a floor covering
US20180002935A1 (en) * 2015-01-15 2018-01-04 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor panel for forming a floor covering
US9938727B2 (en) * 2014-08-25 2018-04-10 Gerflor Floor panel for producing a covering
US9951518B2 (en) 2015-03-31 2018-04-24 Gestion Mcd Inc. Tile system for suspended ceiling and wall, and method
US20180179763A1 (en) * 2015-07-06 2018-06-28 Tarkett Gdl Chiral flexible rectangular floor covering element
US20190024388A1 (en) * 2016-01-15 2019-01-24 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor panel for forming a floor covering
US10287777B2 (en) * 2016-09-30 2019-05-14 Valinge Innovation Ab Set of panels
US10301830B2 (en) 2013-03-25 2019-05-28 Valinge Innovation Ab Floorboards provided with a mechanical locking system
US10316526B2 (en) 2014-08-29 2019-06-11 Valinge Innovation Ab Vertical joint system for a surface covering panel
WO2020115415A1 (fr) * 2018-12-07 2020-06-11 Gerflor Panneau a assemblage vertical pour la realisation d'un revêtement
US10808410B2 (en) 2018-01-09 2020-10-20 Valinge Innovation Ab Set of panels
US10837181B2 (en) 2015-12-17 2020-11-17 Valinge Innovation Ab Method for producing a mechanical locking system for panels
US10889997B2 (en) 2015-01-16 2021-01-12 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor panel for forming a floor covering
FR3105280A1 (fr) * 2019-12-23 2021-06-25 Gerflor Panneau pour la réalisation d’un revêtement de sol en pose libre
US20220136256A1 (en) * 2019-01-30 2022-05-05 Riflock B.V. Panel and Covering Comprising the Same

Families Citing this family (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2015070890A1 (fr) * 2013-11-12 2015-05-21 Grigorij Wagner Élément de revêtement de sol
WO2016042142A1 (fr) * 2014-09-18 2016-03-24 Tarkett Gdl Revêtement de surface décoratif et mince
NO346085B1 (en) 2020-09-08 2022-02-07 Forestia As A ceiling board, a method for mounting a plurality of same, and a kit of tools for use in the method

Citations (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1476485A (en) * 1921-06-03 1923-12-04 Brown Hoisting Machinery Compa Building section
DE10305695A1 (de) * 2003-02-12 2004-09-16 Stefan Coors Verkleidungsplatte, insbesondere Fussbodenplatte
US20040237446A1 (en) * 2001-09-21 2004-12-02 Precey Anthony D Locating device and method for locating tiles
US20060010820A1 (en) * 2000-12-22 2006-01-19 Richard Schwitte Wall boards or panel boards for use in interior construction and dry construction
US20080168730A1 (en) * 2001-09-20 2008-07-17 Valinge Innovation Ab Flooring and method for laying and manufacturing the same
US20080209838A1 (en) * 2002-04-22 2008-09-04 Valinge Innovation Ab Floorboards, flooring systems and method for manufacturing and installation thereof
US7980043B2 (en) * 2000-05-16 2011-07-19 Kronoplus Technical Ag Panels with coupling means
US20110247285A1 (en) * 2008-12-22 2011-10-13 Carlos Wybo Covering panel
US8071193B2 (en) * 2006-12-11 2011-12-06 Ulrich Windmoller Consulting Gmbh Floor panel
US8336272B2 (en) * 2008-01-09 2012-12-25 Flooring Technologies Ltd. Device and method for locking two building boards
US8720150B2 (en) * 2010-12-22 2014-05-13 Akzenta Paneele + Profile Gmbh Panel

Family Cites Families (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
ATE277246T1 (de) * 1999-06-30 2004-10-15 Akzenta Paneele & Profile Gmbh Paneel sowie befestigungssystem für paneele
SE522860C2 (sv) * 2000-03-10 2004-03-09 Pergo Europ Ab Vertikalt förenade golvelement innefattande en kombination av olika golvelement
DE202008010555U1 (de) * 2008-08-08 2009-12-17 Akzenta Paneele + Profile Gmbh Kunststoffpaneel mit Hakenprofil
ATE548528T1 (de) * 2009-01-28 2012-03-15 Flooring Technologies Ltd Paneel, insbesondere bodenpaneel

Patent Citations (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1476485A (en) * 1921-06-03 1923-12-04 Brown Hoisting Machinery Compa Building section
US7980043B2 (en) * 2000-05-16 2011-07-19 Kronoplus Technical Ag Panels with coupling means
US20060010820A1 (en) * 2000-12-22 2006-01-19 Richard Schwitte Wall boards or panel boards for use in interior construction and dry construction
US20080168730A1 (en) * 2001-09-20 2008-07-17 Valinge Innovation Ab Flooring and method for laying and manufacturing the same
US20040237446A1 (en) * 2001-09-21 2004-12-02 Precey Anthony D Locating device and method for locating tiles
US20080209838A1 (en) * 2002-04-22 2008-09-04 Valinge Innovation Ab Floorboards, flooring systems and method for manufacturing and installation thereof
DE10305695A1 (de) * 2003-02-12 2004-09-16 Stefan Coors Verkleidungsplatte, insbesondere Fussbodenplatte
US8071193B2 (en) * 2006-12-11 2011-12-06 Ulrich Windmoller Consulting Gmbh Floor panel
US8336272B2 (en) * 2008-01-09 2012-12-25 Flooring Technologies Ltd. Device and method for locking two building boards
US20110247285A1 (en) * 2008-12-22 2011-10-13 Carlos Wybo Covering panel
US8720150B2 (en) * 2010-12-22 2014-05-13 Akzenta Paneele + Profile Gmbh Panel

Cited By (54)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US11479977B2 (en) 2012-08-27 2022-10-25 Unilin Nordic Ab Panel
US9995045B2 (en) * 2012-08-27 2018-06-12 Pergo (Europe) Ab Panel
US10443248B2 (en) * 2012-08-27 2019-10-15 Pergo (Europe) Ab Panel
US20150240500A1 (en) * 2012-08-27 2015-08-27 Pergo (Europe) Ab Panel
US9574354B2 (en) * 2012-08-27 2017-02-21 Pergo (Europe) Ab Interlocking panel
US10883277B2 (en) 2012-08-27 2021-01-05 Pergo (Europe) Ab Panel
US11519184B2 (en) * 2012-08-27 2022-12-06 Unilin Nordic Ab Panel
US20220220747A1 (en) * 2012-08-27 2022-07-14 Unilin Nordic Ab Panel
US20170138061A1 (en) * 2012-08-27 2017-05-18 Pergo (Europe) Ab Panel
US20230012893A1 (en) * 2012-08-27 2023-01-19 Unilin Nordic Ab Panel
US10844612B2 (en) 2013-03-25 2020-11-24 Valinge Innovation Ab Floorboards provided with a mechanical locking system
US10301830B2 (en) 2013-03-25 2019-05-28 Valinge Innovation Ab Floorboards provided with a mechanical locking system
US11421426B2 (en) 2013-03-25 2022-08-23 Valinge Innovation Ab Floorboards provided with a mechanical locking system
US11898356B2 (en) 2013-03-25 2024-02-13 Välinge Innovation AB Floorboards provided with a mechanical locking system
US10407919B2 (en) 2013-03-25 2019-09-10 Valinge Innovation Ab Floorboards provided with a mechanical locking system
US9938727B2 (en) * 2014-08-25 2018-04-10 Gerflor Floor panel for producing a covering
US10640990B2 (en) 2014-08-25 2020-05-05 Gerflor Floor panel for producing a covering
US10316526B2 (en) 2014-08-29 2019-06-11 Valinge Innovation Ab Vertical joint system for a surface covering panel
US10982449B2 (en) 2014-08-29 2021-04-20 Valinge Innovation Ab Vertical joint system for a surface covering panel
US11661749B2 (en) 2014-08-29 2023-05-30 Valinge Innovation Ab Vertical joint system for a surface covering panel
US10865571B2 (en) 2014-08-29 2020-12-15 Valinge Innovation Ab Vertical joint system for a surface covering panel
US10407921B2 (en) 2015-01-15 2019-09-10 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor panel for forming a floor covering
US10072428B2 (en) * 2015-01-15 2018-09-11 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor panel for forming a floor covering
US20180002935A1 (en) * 2015-01-15 2018-01-04 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor panel for forming a floor covering
US10745922B2 (en) 2015-01-15 2020-08-18 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor panel for forming a floor covering
US11634912B2 (en) * 2015-01-15 2023-04-25 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor panel for forming a floor covering
US11021881B2 (en) 2015-01-15 2021-06-01 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor panel for forming a floor covering
US10889997B2 (en) 2015-01-16 2021-01-12 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor panel for forming a floor covering
US10309113B2 (en) * 2015-01-16 2019-06-04 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor panel for forming a floor covering
US11512479B2 (en) 2015-01-16 2022-11-29 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor panel for forming a floor covering
US20170370109A1 (en) * 2015-01-16 2017-12-28 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor panel for forming a floor covering
US9951518B2 (en) 2015-03-31 2018-04-24 Gestion Mcd Inc. Tile system for suspended ceiling and wall, and method
US20180179763A1 (en) * 2015-07-06 2018-06-28 Tarkett Gdl Chiral flexible rectangular floor covering element
US20220396954A1 (en) * 2015-07-06 2022-12-15 Tarkett Gdl Chiral flexible rectangular floor covering element
US10837181B2 (en) 2015-12-17 2020-11-17 Valinge Innovation Ab Method for producing a mechanical locking system for panels
US10907363B2 (en) * 2016-01-15 2021-02-02 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor panel for forming a floor covering
US11668107B2 (en) 2016-01-15 2023-06-06 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor panel for forming a floor covering
US11821218B2 (en) 2016-01-15 2023-11-21 Flooring Industries Limited Sarl Floor panel for forming a floor covering
US20190024388A1 (en) * 2016-01-15 2019-01-24 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor panel for forming a floor covering
US11428017B2 (en) 2016-01-15 2022-08-30 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor panel for forming a floor covering
US10287777B2 (en) * 2016-09-30 2019-05-14 Valinge Innovation Ab Set of panels
US10851549B2 (en) 2016-09-30 2020-12-01 Valinge Innovation Ab Set of panels
US11814850B2 (en) 2016-09-30 2023-11-14 Välinge Innovation AB Set of panels
US11808045B2 (en) 2018-01-09 2023-11-07 Välinge Innovation AB Set of panels
US10808410B2 (en) 2018-01-09 2020-10-20 Valinge Innovation Ab Set of panels
FR3089534A1 (fr) * 2018-12-07 2020-06-12 Gerflor Panneau a assemblage vertical pour la realisation d’un revêtement
CN113383138A (zh) * 2018-12-07 2021-09-10 洁福有限公司 用于生产覆盖物的竖直组装的板件
US20220025656A1 (en) * 2018-12-07 2022-01-27 Gerflor Panel with vertical assembly for producing a covering
US11828072B2 (en) * 2018-12-07 2023-11-28 Gerflor Panel with vertical assembly for producing a covering
WO2020115415A1 (fr) * 2018-12-07 2020-06-11 Gerflor Panneau a assemblage vertical pour la realisation d'un revêtement
US20220136256A1 (en) * 2019-01-30 2022-05-05 Riflock B.V. Panel and Covering Comprising the Same
US11952784B2 (en) * 2019-01-30 2024-04-09 I4F Licensing Nv Panel and covering comprising the same
FR3105280A1 (fr) * 2019-12-23 2021-06-25 Gerflor Panneau pour la réalisation d’un revêtement de sol en pose libre
WO2021130431A1 (fr) * 2019-12-23 2021-07-01 Gerflor Panneau pour la realisation d'un revetement de sol en pose libre

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CA2809984C (fr) 2014-03-18
CA2809984A1 (fr) 2013-03-28
WO2013044377A1 (fr) 2013-04-04

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
CA2809984C (fr) Panneau de revetement et methode d'assemblage d'une pluralite de ces panneaux
US10995501B2 (en) Mechanical locking system for floor panels
US9347227B2 (en) Floating floor system, floor panel, and installation method for the same
CA2366535C (fr) Barre de mise a niveau pour systeme de revetement de sol
US8375673B2 (en) Method and apparatus for interconnecting paneling
US8336272B2 (en) Device and method for locking two building boards
US20030093964A1 (en) Floor grid system
EP3192937B1 (fr) Revêtement de sol formé par des éléments de construction, et procédé pour leur arrangement
US20140305064A1 (en) Connector and system for mechanically joining abutting construction elements
EP4227474A1 (fr) Système de verrouillage mécanique pour panneaux de plancher
EP3194684B1 (fr) Revêtement de surface décoratif mince
CA2359389A1 (fr) Produit de revetement du sol
AU2009101288B4 (en) Floorboards for a flooring system
WO2008088239A1 (fr) Unité de raccordement de panneaux de construction
US7246475B2 (en) Method and system for detachably fixing a planar component to a sub-surface
US10400458B1 (en) Interlocking flooring system using locking strips
WO2006073321A1 (fr) Systeme de fixation pour des joints profiles de finition et pour des joints profiles decoratifs
EP2971401B1 (fr) Ensemble panneau de sol, panneau de sol et éléments d'assemblage pour utilisation dans celui-ci
US20220307274A1 (en) Flooring panels with slidable edge joints
WO2018098532A1 (fr) Système d'assemblage de panneaux emboîtables
RU2779864C2 (ru) Система соединения для панелей напольного настила
RU2779864C9 (ru) Система соединения для панелей напольного настила
WO2008141428A1 (fr) Systèmes de revêtement de surface

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AS Assignment

Owner name: DISTRIBUTION DUROY INC., CANADA

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:ROY, NORMAN;FORTIN, BENOIT;REEL/FRAME:030000/0384

Effective date: 20120913

STCB Information on status: application discontinuation

Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION