WO2003087497A1

WO2003087497A1 - Panelling with edging and laying aid

Info

Publication number: WO2003087497A1
Application number: PCT/EP2002/010671
Authority: WO
Inventors: Maik Moebus; Alexander P. Grohs
Original assignee: Kronospan Technical Company Limited
Priority date: 2002-04-13
Filing date: 2002-09-24
Publication date: 2003-10-23
Also published as: CN1653238A; DE50214780D1; ATE443189T1; DE50213857D1; PL207751B1; PL371350A1; EP1495196B1; EP1520947B1; CN100451267C; EP1495196A1; ATE488655T1; AU2002367875A1; EP1520947A1; CN2752368Y

Abstract

The invention relates to components for the production of a covering, in particular for a floor. The components comprise panels (1, 2, 2a) which have coupling elements (3,12, 6, 14) embodied such that two panels (1, 2, 2a) can be joined perpendicular to the common joint (11) and simultaneously parallel to the surface (9) as well as perpendicular to the common surfaces (9) by means of a positive fit. A cord- or rod-like element (18, 22, 32) is arranged between the panels (1, 2, 2a) in a recess (11, 23) and is preferably introduced between the panels by means of a laying aid. Particularly large rooms can be provided with said covering. Novel optical effects can also be achieved when said cord- or rod-like element (18, 22, 32) is visible on the surface (9). The joint (11) also achieves a particularly good protection against moisture and dust.

Description

Panels with borders along with installation aids

The invention relates to components for the provision of a covering. The components include in particular a panel which can be positively connected to a second panel, so that one

Locking is present both perpendicular to the common surface and perpendicular to the common connecting joint and at the same time parallel to the common surface. The use of glue can be dispensed with if the panels are used according to the invention as a covering for a floor or

Wall cladding are used,

A panel of the type mentioned at the outset is known, for example, from US Pat. No. 6,324, 803 B1 or EP 0 698 1 62 Bl. The known panel is connected to a second panel by means of a tongue and groove

Connection locked perpendicular to the common surface of the panels, the groove includes an upper and a lower flank. The lower flank is longer than the upper and has a protruding locking element at the end. In the connected state, the protruding locking element engages in a recess which is introduced below the adjacent panel. This results in a positive locking which acts parallel to the common surface of the two panels and at the same time perpendicular to the joint of the two panels,

In the locked state of two panels, play remains between the protruding locking element and the recess, so that, among other things, one panel can be easily moved relative to the other along the common connecting joint, the transition from the protruding flank to the locking element is perpendicular, the locking element so rises vertically in height, the recess below the adjacent panel has walls that run perpendicular to the common surface of the panels. A vertically extending wall or contact surface of the recess thus abuts a vertically extending wall or contact surface of the above locking element in the locked state. This ensures that the panels cannot accidentally detach from one another when the force is applied,

The game is also necessary in order to be able to connect two panels despite the aforementioned vertical walls, for example by a rotary movement around the joint joint. In the aforementioned publication it is stated that there may be a play of 2/1 0 mm,

The material from which the panels of the type mentioned at the outset can be made is in principle freely selectable, however, according to the invention, panels which consist entirely or predominantly of a wood-based material are particularly affected. At a

Parquet panel can be made entirely of wood. Alternatively, a parquet panel can comprise a carrier board, which consists for example of HDF or MDF. Above the carrier board, one or more parquet slats are applied. A layer or a paper can be applied below the carrier plate in order to counteract it in order to avoid deformation. Panels which can be connected to one another without glue and which consist entirely or predominantly of plastic are also known, for example from publication US 04426820,

The invention further relates in particular to a laminate floor. This comprises a carrier plate made of a Wood material. HDF and MDF are currently preferred as the wood-based material, another typical wood-based material consists of glued chips, a decorative layer is applied above the carrier plate, which includes a decorative paper along with a protective layer, the protective layer consists in particular of a resin, which among other things contains abrasion-resistant particles such as corundum or SiC, a backing paper is applied below the carrier plate in order to avoid the aforementioned deformations,

There are currently signs that technical laminates are on

Will gain importance and panels will be increasingly manufactured from them. These are used in particular as flooring,

Resin-impregnated papers are fed together with the carrier plate to a press during production. The papers are glued to the carrier plate with the application of heat and pressure. The decorative paper already has the layer with the abrasion-resistant particles.

Panels of the type according to the invention can comprise one or more of the aforementioned features.

The aforementioned game was perceived by the experts as being too disadvantageous, since dust and moisture can penetrate into it. The game is also perceived optically as negative, since a gap can occur on the surface.

In order to avoid such play, a panel is known, for example, from publication EP 0 843 763 B1, in which inclined contact surfaces are provided instead of the aforementioned vertical contact surfaces. The inclined surfaces are such that two panels are rotated around a common connecting joint, for example by a rotary movement connected with each other can, without leaving a gap on the surface of the two panels due to play. From this publication it is also known to make the protruding lower lip elastic so as to enable a connection by displacement in one plane,

Although the game perceived as disadvantageous in the common connection joint is avoided in the aforementioned prior art, however, it then requires moving a panel which is connected to a second one

Example is connected via long sides, a large effort along the joint joint. As a rule, the effort is so great that tools such as a hammer and tapping block must be used. Damage to the panels can occur.

Due to the inclined contact surfaces as well as the elastic lip or flank of a groove, panels can not only be connected to one another by moving within a plane, but can also be detached in this way.Unwanted, two panels that have already been installed can also detach from one another with the appropriate force, Problem occurs in particular if two lips of the same length are provided and the locking element, which causes the locking parallel to the floor surface and perpendicular to the connecting joint, is located within the groove.This is to be made very small because there is little space available, such as that Utility model DE 29823749 UI can be found,

Providing two lips of the same length has the following advantages over the prior art with the long protruding lip, On the one hand, material is saved during manufacture, in comparison to a prior art, in which one flank or lip protrudes from the other of a groove. On the other hand, the tongue gets into the groove very reliably. In addition, the consumer has a groove -Spring system very familiar, in which the flanks are of equal length.

The object of the invention is to provide components for the provision of a covering, in particular a panel of the type mentioned, in which the advantages of a panel can be achieved, which can be connected to a second panel with play, without the disadvantage that dust and Moisture can penetrate the joint undesirably. The object of the invention is also to provide a laying aid for the components or panels according to the invention and to specify a laying method.

The object of the invention is achieved by a component, in particular a

Panel with the features of the first claim and solved by a laying aid and a method according to the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments result from the subclaims,

According to the invention, there is a recess between two gluelessly interlocked panels, in which, in the finally installed state, there is a cord-like or rod-like element, which consists in particular of a compressible material. Teflon, for example, can be provided as a flexible material, but a material is preferred , which has good elastic properties. The lacing or rod-like element therefore consists, for example, of a rubber ^{, but} silicone is preferred over rubber because Silicone has a suitably higher restoring force compared to rubber. The higher restoring force of silicone compared to rubber has proven to be advantageous.

The provision of a gap or recess between the two

Panels make it easier to move a panel along a joint joint, even if there should be no play between two panels. However, the presence of a game is preferred to ensure ease of movement. It is enough for this

Purpose a game of a few 1/100 millimeters.

The aforementioned gap or recess occurs in particular on the surface of two panels, which forms the visible part of a floor or a wall covering. The lacing or rod-like element is then visible from the surface. In the locked state, the lacing or rod-like element is in particular dimensioned such that it completely fills the width of the gap. The lacing or rod-like element is advantageously somewhat wider then in the compressed state within the gap,

By providing a gap or a recess between the panels, in which there is a cord-like or rod-like element, the friction is particularly compared to such

Panels reduced, in which the locking elements are integrally connected to the panel and consist of a wood-based material. According to the invention, for example, panels that are integrally connected to the panel can be provided which consist of a wood-based material and which are nevertheless relatively easily displaced along a joint joint If two panels are locked together, the gap with the lacing or rod-like element is on the visible surface, so open There are also new design options as a side effect, In the joint area, for example, black rubber or silicon material is visible, The surface of the panel can have a strong contrast to it, New optical effects result, which are not known, especially with laminate panels, Become a more discreet one If the appearance is desired, the lacing or rod-like element, as far as this is visible, is color-matched to the visible surface. There are also decors that have a colored border or colored edges on the surface of each panel. In contrast, the The customer can freely choose the color of the border and also change it later, so it is possible to vary the look of already laid panels with a relatively small effort without having to remove the flooring. The recess provided on the surface by two adjoining panels thus offers, in addition to the technical advantage of being easier to move, the possibility of easily changing optical impressions,

The surface of the lacing or rod-like element can subsequently be pressed or inserted into the gap or the recess. However, it can also already be connected to a panel, in particular if the lacing or rod-like element consists of a compressible material. Subsequent insertion of a separate string or rod-like

However, elements in a gap offers the advantage that the panels can be moved particularly easily as long as the lacing-like or rod-like element has not yet been inserted,

If there is play between a protruding locking element and a corresponding recess, vertical or undercut contact surfaces can be provided. The lacing or rod-like element is then slightly compressed when connecting, if it is already in the factory was delivered connected to a panel. Despite vertical contact surfaces, such connections can be made, for example, by turning around a joint joint.

It is even possible to undercut the above

To provide locking element and the recess. If interconnected panels are pressed apart parallel to the floor surface, then the above-mentioned contact surfaces become caught in one another with a correspondingly arranged locking element and a correspondingly arranged recess Unwanted loosening due to an accidental force called technology is avoided even if, for example, a protruding flank of a groove with an interlocking element at the end is designed to be elastic, so should a particularly reliable locking parallel to the floor surface and perpendicular to one, despite an elastic lip of a groove joint connection joint are created, such contact surfaces are preferred which are undercut or at least perpendicular to the surface,

If the contact surfaces run obliquely in the manner mentioned at the outset, as is known from the document EP 0 843 763 B1, a rigid configuration of a projecting lower flank or lip of a groove is preferred in order to ensure reliable locking parallel and perpendicular to a common connecting joint If a particularly reliable connection between installed panels is desired, the protruding lip is also rigid in the case of perpendicular contact surfaces, so that it is not possible to loosen it by moving it in a plane perpendicular to the connecting joint. The other coupling elements are then if necessary, rigid, affected by this is, for example, a tongue which, with a groove, locks perpendicular to the common surface of the panels,

If the panels are first interlocked with each other, there is play and it is provided that the lacing or rod-like element is then inserted from above into a gap or recess, so that it is particularly easy to move along a connecting joint with almost no effort, the possibility Moving panels that have already been locked together along a common connecting joint is particularly desirable when two long sides of two panels are already connected and narrow sides are now to be connected. Such a method is described, for example, in EP

0855482 B l known. In particular, if the connection regularly requires that panels can be moved along a common connection joint despite the already locked state, the embodiment in which a cord-like or rod-like element is last inserted or pressed into a gap from above is advantageous.

The lacing or rod-like element typically has a diameter or a width of at least 0.5 mm, preferably of at least 1 mm, particularly preferably of at least 2 mm. The width does not regularly exceed 1 0 mm, unless a larger width is desired for optical reasons. The width is preferably less than 5 mm, particularly preferably less than 3 mm. In principle, however, smaller or larger widths or diameters can be provided, for example for optical reasons.

The gap in which the cord-like or rod-like element is located is regularly somewhat smaller than that lacing or rigid element, especially if a game is to be compensated or dust and moisture are to be prevented from penetrating into a connecting joint. The lacing or rod-like element is then lightly pressed in the gap and is thus held in the gap. However, the gap can also be the same

Width, only a larger width of the gap compared to the width of the cord or rod-like element or the diameter should be avoided, since otherwise an undesirable gap remains on the surface and the cord or rod-like element is too easy to detach if This has been inserted from the surface. A press fit of the cord-like or rod-like element in the gap is preferred, since then the gap-free state is ensured and the cord-like or rod-like element is held.

In one embodiment of the invention, the cord-like or rod-like element is in the locked state between two surfaces, which bring about a locking. For example, these can be the areas that are called contact areas here. The cord then consists in particular of an elastic material such as rubber or silicone. Before two panels are locked, the lacing or rod-like element must be placed on one of the above-mentioned locked surfaces. The lacing or rod-like element is then in particular partially in a recess and is pushed further or even fully into this when the panels are locked together. For example, a panel is latched into a second by a rotary movement or a lowering movement, which is known, for example, from the publication DE 20008708 UI. The cord-like or rod-like element is pressed into the recess, on account of the

If there is a game, one panel can now be pushed further towards the other panel. As a result, the depression is released again, the laced or rod-like Element relaxes and thus gets between the two (contact) surfaces, which cause a locking.

If, for example, a protruding flank is provided, which at the end merges into a locking element through a right angle, the aforementioned recess is preferably located immediately before the transition to the locking element. The lacing or rod-like element is inserted into this recess or is already attached here at the factory, for example vulcanized.

In the aforementioned embodiment, it can be expedient that even in the relaxed state of the cord-like or rod-like element, a gap or a recess remains on the surface. A second lacing or rod-like element is then introduced into this gap. Alternatively, a cord-like or rod-like element made of compressible material can already be attached to the surface of a butt edge of a panel. This can be advantageous in order to achieve the aforementioned design effects or to compensate for stresses that are practically unavoidable, particularly in the case of a wood material .

If a first and a second cord-like or rod-like element are provided in a connecting joint between two panels, there is also the advantage here that the panels can first be pressed apart somewhat on the surface using an appropriate tool. Space is thus created, in order to be able to insert a lacing or rod-like element here without any problems. If the cord or rod-like element is largely inserted, the tool is removed. The lacing or rod-like element, which is located between two locking contact surfaces, then relaxes in such a way that no gap remains on the surface. If a lacing or rigid element is provided in the interior of the connecting joint between two contact surfaces, which bring about a locking, this enables an embodiment in which two panels are connected by

Coupling elements of a panel are first brought into coupling elements of a second panel by a vertical movement relative to the later common surface of two panels. The lacing or rod-like element can be pressed, for example, into a corresponding recess.

Then the panels are pushed towards each other. With a corresponding configuration, a tongue can get into a groove during this pushing together and thus effect a locking perpendicular to the common surface. The aforementioned lacing or rod-like element finally relaxes and gets between the two locking contact surfaces,

The cord-like or rod-like element can have a circular or triangular diameter, but it does

Last introduced surface, it may be advantageous that the lacing or rod-like element is hook-shaped on two opposite sides. If the lacing or rod-like element is pressed accordingly into a gap from above, these hooks act like barbs. If the lacing or rod-like element is pressed into the gap, the visible surface of the lacing or rod-like element can be designed to be flat in order to provide a flat closure with the remaining surface of the panels.

Contrary to the surface of the lacing or rod-like element, which is visible from the surface, a curved recess, for example, can be provided so that obliquely protruding hooks can be pressed better into the gap. In the embodiment with the hooks and the curved lower recess, it is advantageous to implement a press fit,

The lacing or rod-like element advantageously comprises one

Thread that can practically not be stretched, The thread is then basically encased in a compressible material, This ensures that the cord-like or rod-like element consisting of a compressible material is not disadvantageous by being pressed into a gap or into a recess If the cord or rod-like element is first stretched, it will contract again in the installed state. This would result in undesirable areas in the recesses or gaps that are not filled with a cord-like or rod-like element.

In order to be able to lay particularly easily, at least two opposite sides of a panel have locking elements in which a connection is possible by first lowering one panel vertically relative to the other. One panel is arranged parallel to the second, in particular are in such a case, the narrow sides are equipped with such locking elements if the surface of a panel is rectangular. The long sides are then preferably configured such that a connection in the

As a rule, a rotary movement around a connecting joint is required.If a panel on the long side is connected to the long side of a second panel by a rotary movement, a narrow side can at the same time get into the corresponding locking or coupling element of an already installed panel around the narrow side of the already installed panel. Depending on the embodiment, it may then be necessary to connect the panels to one another via the narrow sides be pushed slightly towards each other. Typically, this last shift can be limited to a few 1/10 millimeters. In this way the shifting to the final position compared to the beginning

5 mentioned prior art kept very low. The time required for the laying can be reduced accordingly. It should also be borne in mind that a method for laying the panels, which includes displacement, among other things, is particularly undesirable if a panel is initially close to one

0 wall is located. A tool can then hardly between them

Panel and the wall can be brought to move using a tool. Moving can also be particularly undesirable if there is a small projection in a room, for example due to a door frame,

5 to which a panel should adjoin as closely as possible, then it is particularly advantageous to be able to connect panels to one another by a lowering movement. The narrow sides can be obtained, for example, in the manner known from the publication DE 20008708 UI, insofar as this results from this

-0 relate known coupling elements to a connection by lowering,

The cord-like or rod-like element can have an essentially rectangular or square diameter in order to be able to bring about a flat closure on the surface,

A cord-like or rod-like element in the sense of the invention has the desired elasticity or flexibility if the width or the diameter can be reduced by being compressed, solid metal material or wood cannot be compressed.

The demanding dimensions of the panels are advantageous because they are easy to handle. In particular, dimensions below 1 00 cm are advantageous, because then the panels can be easily transported in the trunk of limousines,

If two rod-like or cord-like elements are provided, these are preferably such that the restoring forces that occur due to the rod-like or cord-like elements are such that no gap remains on the surface. It is therefore advantageous that a rod-like or cord-like element, which borders on the visible surface of the panels, can cause relatively low restoring forces. Panels are not undesirably pushed as far apart. The restoring forces can be selected by choosing the materials from which the rod or cord-like

Element exist, can be suitably adjusted, In addition or alternatively, the cross-sections can be selected appropriately. The rod-like or cord-like element adjacent to the surface therefore preferably has a larger cross-sectional area than the other rod-like or cord-like element,

In a further embodiment, a cord-like or rod-shaped element locks two panels in one of the directions mentioned, for example perpendicular to the common surface of the panels. In particular, two panels are locked in parallel and at the same time perpendicular to the common connecting joint when the rod or cord-shaped element is pushed into a corresponding recess,

The embodiment in which the pushing in of a rod-shaped or cord-shaped element causes a locking of two panels, in turn enables the presence of vertical or undercut contact surfaces. This creates a connection that is retained even when force is not provided. To get vertical contact surfaces that have a lock, for example, parallel to the surface as well To obtain at the same time perpendicular to the joint of two panels, the lacing or rod-shaped element has a rectangular cross section in the simplest case. The coupling elements of the two panels to be connected comprise recesses, which are also rectangular

Have cross-section. If the two panels are joined together, for example by moving them in one plane, there is finally an end position in which the two aforementioned recesses with the rectangular cross sections adjoin one another, they then form a channel with a rectangular cross section The cord or rod-shaped element is pushed in. If the cord or rod-shaped element is sufficiently wide and sufficiently high, the two panels are locked together without any play. The contact surfaces, which bring about the positive locking, run vertically.

In the cited prior art, in which a connection is made on the basis of a tongue and groove connection, an elastic lip or flank and further locking elements are provided, in order to enable a positive connection by shifting in one plane, damage can occur in particular if the material is relatively rigid. This is particularly the case if the coupling elements consist of a wood-based material, for example HDF or MDF,

This easily possible damage to the coupling elements can be avoided in the aforementioned embodiment. The connection can be mechanically very stable, since vertical or undercut contact surfaces can be provided, even with inclined contact surfaces, such as those from the

Document EP 00843763 B1 are known, a more stable mechanical connection can be made possible since an elastic flank is not required and the locking element can protrude relatively far, If a protruding flank is provided in the manner known from the document EP 00843763 B1, it can be comparatively short, since it is not deflected downwards when connecting. Material is saved accordingly, so that there is a cost advantage here.

In the prior art, as is known from the document DE 29823749 UI, two flanks of the same length are proposed, one recess for the locking is located inside the groove, a corresponding protruding locking element is in a suitable position on the tongue of a second panel, For reasons of space and production reasons, the locking element protrudes only slightly and has an oblique course, the recess in the interior of the groove is shaped and dimensioned accordingly, the resulting positive connection parallel to the floor surface and at the same time perpendicular to the connecting joint is mechanically relatively unstable, the instability will be the present embodiment is avoided, for example, by vertical or comparatively steep contact surfaces if an embodiment with flanks of the same length is provided for a groove acting as a coupling element.

In order to arrive at undercut contact surfaces in the embodiment in which the pushing in of a rod-shaped or cord-shaped element causes a locking of two panels, the rod-like or cord-like element has a constriction in cross section, for example. Recesses in coupling elements in which the rod or cord-like

Element is pushed in for the purpose of locking, expediently have a corresponding cross section. In order to be able to push the rod-like or cord-like element into recesses in coupling elements, so as to lock two panels together, the rod-like or cord-like element preferably has a smooth surface in order to keep sliding friction forces occurring during the pushing in low, the rod or cord-like element then consists in particular of non-compressible or poorly compressible material, in order to be able to avoid a gap on the surface of the panels even if no additional rod-like or cord-like element is to be introduced on the surface, as material for the rod-like or cord-like element or its surface can therefore be useful Teflon, HDF, MDF also have relatively smooth surfaces and can therefore also be used with preference, even a rod made of metal or with a metallic surface has a smooth surface and can therefore preferably be used,

In order to be able to thread the rod-like or cord-like element into recesses in coupling elements and then push it in, the rod-like or cord-like element advantageously tapers at at least one end,

Preferably, the embodiment in which the pushing in of a rod-shaped or shelf-shaped element locks two panels is provided on narrow sides of panels that have a rectangular surface, panels are then connected to one another on the long sides, in particular by a rotary movement, if necessary, narrow sides of panels that have already been laid are then pushed towards one another. Finally, the rod-like or cord-like element is pushed in on the corresponding narrow side. Narrow sides between which the rod-shaped or cord-shaped element is inserted for locking purposes are preferred, since the distance is comparatively short here. or insert a cord-shaped element to lock two panels accordingly.

The embodiment in which the pushing in of a rod-shaped or cord-shaped element causes two panels to be locked can be combined in a panel with the coupling elements known from the prior art to provide a glueless connection. A panel with a rectangular surface, for example, is particularly preferred, which is preferably configured on the long side in such a way that it can be connected to a second panel without glue by means of a rotary movement, so that there is no play between the panels. Such an embodiment is known from the publication WO 01/48332. In particular, this embodiment comprises a rigid, protruding lower lip or flank in order to achieve a mechanically stable connection. The embodiment is then provided on a further side of the panel, that is to say in particular on the narrow side, in which the pushing in of a rod-shaped or cord-like element brings about locking of two panels. First, a first and a second

Panel connected to one another by means of the rotary movement. The second panel is then pushed along the common connecting joint to an adjacent panel that has already been connected to the first panel. Finally, the second and third panels are finally connected to one another by pushing the rod-shaped or cord-shaped element into a channel which has been formed by recesses in the corresponding coupling elements.

According to the invention, it can be a parquet or

Act laminate panel or the like. It can be square or oblong. It can consist of wood, a wooden material such as MDF or HDF, stone, plastic, clay, ceramic, metal, etc. It is therefore possible by the invention to even lay a stone floor.

A method for laying the covering elements or panels comprises the following steps,

A first panel has already been laid, It has lower, projecting flanks on the side, In the projecting flank there is a groove-shaped recess, Either a cord (or rod) is inserted into this recess or into a recess within the recess, which can be radially elastically deformed , inserted, The cord or rod preferably consists of a tendon made of a material with low elastic properties, which is encased by an elastic material such as rubber,

Due to the tendon, the cord (the stick) does not change its length. A second panel is placed on one side, preferably its long side, at an angle, for example, and connected to the already installed panel by pivoting into the common panel plane so that they are connected to one another parallel to the common surface and perpendicular to the common joint by positive locking , Depending on

Embodiment, the connection can also be carried out by lowering one panel relative to the other.

A second panel is laid on the longitudinal edge of the first one

Panels laid at an angle and connected to it by pivoting or lowering in the aforementioned manner,

The other sides and usually the narrow sides of the

Panels are designed in such a way that locking elements engage one behind the other when one panel is lowered relative to the other. With the corresponding positioning of the last two panels, there is already a locking mechanism in the lowered state that locks the two panels parallel to one another locked together surface and perpendicular to the joint joint. Then the two last-mentioned panels are pushed towards one another, a tongue of one panel enters the groove of another panel, the two panels are thus also vertical

Connected to each other on the floor level. If necessary, the two last installed panels are pushed in the direction of the already installed panel, which results in a classic tongue and groove connection. The classic tongue and groove connection locks the two panels vertically to the common surface by positive locking ,

The protruding lip on the narrow side also has a groove already described above. Im pushed together

Condition of the two panels, the rod-shaped or cord-shaped element, for example in the form of a round rubber, can be pushed into the channel, which is formed by the aforementioned groove and the last-mentioned panel. The dimensions are chosen in particular so that a play remains between the round rubber and the aforementioned channel. Pushing in the rod-shaped or cord-shaped element is particularly easy.

A tool is used, which can be designed essentially cuboid, a channel leads through the cuboid body, the channel begins in particular on an end face, since this is typically not covered during use of the tool, the channel ends at the bottom and Although close to the other face of the cuboid body, the channel preferably has a rectangular cross section, the cross section is elongated, the longer sides run from the bottom up, the tool is used as a laying aid for laying the panels, A spring protrudes from the underside of the tool, the spring is arranged below the channel, the spring tapers downwards (seen from the tool) and / or towards the front, with "back" or "back" is in the direction the end face, to which the channel area adjoins, which ends at the underside. In one embodiment, the spring comprises a first, front area, which is narrower than the subsequent rear area, the narrower area can be approximately twice as long as the thicker area The front end of the spring can be in the

Taper further compared to the narrow area in order to simplify the handling described below, namely to bring the spring of the laying aid into the gap of a joint, which is provided by two panels brought together in the aforementioned manner. Providing a taper to the rear means that the laying aid can finally be pulled out of the joint again in an improved manner,

The width of the spring is initially dimensioned outwards, in particular downwards or forwards, so that it can be inserted into the gap that at least remains on the surfaces of two panels that have been brought together. For example, the spring tapers sufficiently downwards. so the spring can be brought into the aforementioned gap from above by lowering, if the spring tapers towards the front, this taper is inserted into the gap and the spring is brought between the panels, the wider area of the spring is so dimensioned that this pushes the two panels apart when the spring is inserted further between the panels

Pushing apart the lacing or rod-like element which was initially inserted into said groove, A laced or stubby, preferably made of silicone

Element, which preferably has an approximately rectangular

Cross-section is inserted into the channel of the laying aid and preferably from the front side, the dimensions are so

5 dimensioned that the width of the cord-like element on the

Width of the channel is matched, furthermore the height of the cord-like element is matched to the height of the channel, there remains a small play between the cord-like element and the channel,

0

The cord-like element can be easily pushed through the tool due to the play and comes out again below the spring. The dimensions of the rectangular cross sections are also chosen so that the

5 cord-like element within the channel will not twist,

If the cord-like element is pushed through the tool, the spring with a tapered area between the first and the second panel is inserted into the gap between them. It is then, for example, at the beginning of the joint into which the cord-like element is inserted shall be,

In one embodiment of the invention, the tool is provided with rollers _5 in order to move the tool along the connecting joint with the aid of the rollers, otherwise the tool slides over the panels, there is a risk that the surface of the panels can be damaged,

30 If the laying aid along the joint, which is between the

Panels are located, moved or moved and if the tongue is located in the gap of the joint, the panels are first pushed apart by the wider area of the tongue. The first rod or bar initially inserted into the groove is thereby pushed apart

35 cord-shaped element, which, for example, a round Cross-section and made of rubber (round rubber), compressed. The wider area of the spring is dimensioned so that the second cord-like element, which protrudes from the underside of the laying aid, can be easily inserted into the

5 connecting joint reached. A small one therefore preferably remains

Play between the cord-like element and the pressed-apart panels, in order to facilitate the introduction of the cord-like element into the connecting joint. The cord-like element therefore usually comes from above

0 coming into the joint,

If the tool is moved further along a joint, the connecting joint behind the laying aid closes again slightly due to the pressure caused by the first compressed cord

5 or rod-like element has been brought about

Connection joint closed again somewhat, the cord-like element is fixed between two panels due to a suitably provided dimensioning and / or shape by positive locking and / or friction locking,

-0

In an advantageous embodiment, the tool has a roller at the rear end, which rolls above the connecting joint. This ensures that a smooth transition between the panels and the cord-like element on the

25 surface is reached

In one embodiment, the laying aid is moved until the first transverse joint is reached. An eccentric element is pushed laterally parallel to the transverse joint between the second and third panels 30. For this purpose, a gap or a channel-like recess is provided, into which the eccentric elongated element can be pushed in. It is pushed in so that the narrower side of the eccentric element (eccentric) borders on the two panels, the dimensions are such that this can be easily pushed in. In one embodiment, there may be a play between the eccentric element and the two panels,

If the eccentric element has been pushed between the two panels, the eccentric element is rotated by approx. 90 ° with the help of a lever movement, this widens the gap in the joint, which is located on the surface on the narrow sides between the second and third Panel is located, the rod or cord-like element is pressed together, which was previously pushed into the transverse joint,

The eccentric element can be bent at one end so that this bent end into the lateral groove of one of the two

Panels can be inserted, So the 90 ° rotated position is kept stable, Otherwise, there is another way to ensure that the eccentric element is held in the rotated position. So the eccentric element can be held manually.

Another cord-like element, which preferably has an approximately rectangular cross section, is pressed from above into the groove which is located on the transverse sides between the second and third panels. The transverse sides are particularly the narrow sides, if the panels are rectangular, then the eccentric is turned back to the starting position, the groove on the narrow sides closes somewhat and the previously compressed cord or rod-like element, which is preferred around a

Round rubber acts, relaxes, The rod or cord-like element with the preferably rectangular cross-section is now in the fixed state between the second and the third panel, the fixation can have been achieved by positive locking and / or friction locking,

The eccentric is pulled out of the channel, the installation aid continues to move until the next transverse joint is reached, in this way the joints are provided with cord-like elements that are visible from above until the panels are completely surrounded by the cord-like or rod-like elements are,

It has been shown that by means of the invention the panels can be laid over a large area without having to provide joints in the floor covering.

In one embodiment, the laying aid has a recess on the side. The laying aid is moved during laying so that the recess is aligned with a joint that originates from a transverse side, in particular a narrow side. The recess serves to allow a cord-like or rod-like element to be inserted from the transverse side without problems in such a way that this extends completely to the lacing or rod-like element, which is brought into a joint by means of the laying aid.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the spring is arranged below the laying aid so that it extends over its entire length

Tapered downwards so that the spring can be inserted into the joint from above. This is particularly advantageous when walls limit lateral access to a joint.

In one embodiment of the invention, there is in the groove that the

The top of the two panels borders, a taper or step-shaped narrowing downwards, the laying aid (the

Boat) with the tongue underneath is matched to this groove in such a way that the two panels are only pressed apart is achieved due to a pressure which is exerted in the lower region, that is to say in the region of the narrowing or tapering,

Even in the compressed or relaxed state of the already inserted rod-shaped or cord-shaped element, which may be in the form of a round rubber in particular, the spring of the laying aid is preferably located with play within the connecting joint in the upper region, which ensures that the upper edge of the panels does not is exposed to mechanical loads, especially when the installation aid is pulled out of the connecting joint. Otherwise the upper edge could be undesirably damaged and the optics could be disturbed,

In a further embodiment of the invention there is one

Recess within the joint between two panels, specifically this recess is located above the aforementioned taper or step-shaped narrowing. If the cord-like element is introduced into the connecting joint, it fills this recess, in particular due to the side of the cord-like or rod-like element protruding lugs, this results in an improved hold of the rod-like or cord-like element in the joint, in particular due to the positive fit. The rod-like or cord-like element then sits particularly reliably between the two

panels,

In a simplified, particularly inexpensive embodiment of the invention, a laying aid is used which can be essentially cuboid in shape. A spring protrudes on one side of the cuboid body. The spring is constructed in the aforementioned manner. This tool enables panels to be expanded so that a rod-like or cord-like element is inserted in the joint between two Panels can be inserted without having to overcome a frictional force. If the tool is pulled out again, the joints close again a bit, so that the rod-like or cord-like element finds a hold between the two panels. The simplified design of the laying aid can also be pushed along the connecting joint. Behind the laying aid, the rod-like or cord-like element can be inserted manually into the widened area.

The rod-like or cord-like elements attached to the cross or

Narrow sides should be at least as long as the covering dimension of the transverse joint in order to obtain a closed surface. The covering dimension length can typically be exceeded by approx. 1 mm if the transverse side is approx. 20 cm long. Either the installation aid can be a suitable one

Have cutting device into which a rod-like or cord-like element can be inserted and cut exactly to the aforementioned dimension. For this purpose, the laying aid has, for example, a channel into which the rod-like or cord-like element can be inserted, in particular with little play.

The cross section of the channel is adapted to the rod-like or cord-like element. A cutting tool is designed such that it cuts the cord-like element, for example by pressing it down, in such a way that the desired length is present. This cutting tool can also be provided separately from the laying aid as a separate tool.

The material of the laying aid can be a metal such as Be aluminum. In order to be able to produce the laying aid inexpensively, however, it is preferably injection molded from plastic,

In one embodiment of the invention, the laying aid has a relatively wide roll on an upper or end face. This is preferably significantly wider than the rolls on the underside, insofar as there are rolls on the underside. This roll on the upper or the end face is used to finally roll over the connecting joint again.If a rod-like or cord-like element protrudes a little undesirably from the joint, it can be improved, the rollers in the laying aid, which serve to exert pressure on the cord-like element Exercise to bring this correctly into the connection joint, are preferably made of a hard material, in particular a metal is suitable.

The rollers on the bottom of the laying aid preferably protrude so far that the distance between the bottom of the laying aid and the panels is very small. In one embodiment, for example, the distance can be only a few tenths of a millimeter, for example 2/1 0 mm, in this In this case, it is advantageous to also manufacture front rollers of the laying aid, which only serve as guides, from a hard material. The material should in any case be so little compressible that the distance of 1/1 0 to 2/10 mm between the floor the laying aid and the

Surface of the panels is observed,

If square panels are used, it is not possible to distinguish between a longitudinal and transverse joint, that

In principle, however, the laying procedure is identical. With the help of the installation aid, a rubber is inserted along a joint. Joints running across this are pushed apart with the help of the eccentric and a cord-like element is inserted from above.

In one embodiment of the invention, adhesives are provided with which the cord-like element is held better in the joint. The adhesive may have already been applied to the panels at the factory. In another embodiment, the adhesive may be introduced into the joint together with the laying aid. The laying aid advantageously has one appropriate tank for an adhesive or adhesive, the adhesive is then introduced into the connecting joint via a suitable feed before the rubber is inserted. This makes it particularly easy to provide a high-quality covering that can also be installed by a handyman.

The adhesive can also be introduced manually on the transverse sides or the joints that run transversely to the aforementioned joint using a suitable tool or a tube.

Panels are advantageously used in which the narrow sides are connected to one another by lowering. First of all, a larger gap of e.g. 2.3 mm between two narrow sides of panels to be connected, only at the very end this gap closes by 0.5 mm, this associated displacement movement of a few 1 ottom mm is used to press a cord-like element between a connecting joint, that is provided on the surface, so if, for example, a gap of 2.5 mm remains on the surface of the type of panels, a cord or rod-like element of 2 mm in width can first be inserted here, then the one panel opposite the other lowered, the gap of originally 2 mm is reduced, for example by 0.5 mm. After all, the rod-like or cord-like, lightly pressed, lies within the joint.

The provided coupling elements can also be used on the long sides, in the same way here

Rubber can be attached.

The material of the panels can be almost any. In the field of laminate flooring, this nowadays consists of HDF or MDF, However, it is not a problem to use the connecting elements for tiles made of ceramic or stone,

The invention is explained in more detail below on the basis of exemplary embodiments 5,

FIG. 1 shows two panels 1 and 2 connected to one another. These are, in particular, panels for a laminate floor. The panels shown are 8 in the example

! 0 mm thick. The panel 1 has a 2.5 mm deep groove on the side, which

1.9 mm wide. This groove 3 comprises an upper flank 4 and a lower flank 5. The upper flank 4 is 2.8 mm thick. The lower flank 5 is longer than the upper flank 4. Outside the area of the actual groove 3, ie in the area of the lower flank 5, the

-5 protrudes from the upper edge 4, there is one

Recess 6. The recess 6 is formed by an obliquely running boundary wall 7 and a vertically running boundary wall 8. The sloping wall opens in a funnel shape in the direction of the floor surface 9. With the

30 A perpendicular angle to the floor surface is included in the present case, the inclined wall 7 serves to transition from the actual area of the groove 3 to the recess 6, the wall 8 extending perpendicular to the floor surface 9 forms a wall of the locking element 5 1 0, The locking element 1 0 is located at the open end the protruding flank or lip 5 of the panel 1, the locking element 1 0 protrudes from the bottom of the recess 6 by 0.7 mm in the present case, the wall 8 forms a contact or locking surface which is used to lock the panels 1 and 2 contributes parallel to the floor surface 9 and perpendicular to the joint 1 1,

The panel 2 has a tongue 1 2 on the side. When the two panels are connected, the tongue 1 2 is located in the groove 3. The thickness of the tongue 1 2 is adapted to the width of the groove so that there is none at the top and bottom There is play, the open end of the tongue 1 2 has an oblique boundary 1 3 on the lower side, there is a distance here from the adjacent flank 5 of the groove 3, the oblique boundary 1 3 causes the tongue 1 2 can be easily threaded into the groove 3, in particular the recess 1 3 is suitable for introducing the spring 1 2 into the groove 3 by means of a rotary movement around the connecting joint 1 1.

A protruding nose 1 4 is provided below the spring 1 2,

This forms a recess 1 5, which can be produced by milling from the underside of the panel 2, the wall 1 6, which forms the transition between the recess 1 5 and the nose 1 4, runs perpendicular to the floor surface, the wall 1 6 also forms a locking or contact surface, which in

Interaction with the delimiting wall 8 causes the positive locking parallel to the floor surface 9 and perpendicular to the joint 1 1, since the contact surfaces or locking surfaces 8 and 1 6 run perpendicular to the floor surface 9, this makes a particularly secure positive locking

Locking between the two panels 1 and 2 achieved compared to the prior art, as is known for example from the publication WO 97/47834 AI. The positive locking due to the locking surfaces 8 and 1 6 further improved by the fact that the projecting lower flank 5 is sufficiently rigid, the lower flank 5 is sufficiently rigid if the panels 1 and 2 cannot be connected 5 by pushing one another within a plane, the connection by moving in a plane is also known from the aforementioned publication WO 97/47834 AI,

To the positive locking parallel to

0 to further improve the floor surface and perpendicular to the connecting joint 1 1, the locking surfaces 8 and 16 can be undercut, a deviation of a few degrees from the vertical course is sufficient, the locking surface 8 is then inclined inwards towards the recess 6,

5 Accordingly, the locking surface is 1 6 inwards

Direction of the recess 1 5 inclined. In the connected state, the locking surfaces 8 and 16 then hook together. This embodiment is particularly advantageous if the connection is made possible by shifting in one plane

! 0 should. In this case, for example, the protruding flank 5 can be bent sufficiently far down, so as to enable the connection by moving in one plane, in order to better ensure that, in the installed state, there is no unwanted loosening by sliding apart in one plane

-5 occurs, the aforementioned interlocking is the

Locking surfaces 8 and 1 6 are particularly advantageous. The interlocking prevents that, for example, the lower flank 5 can bend away due to vibrations.

30 The nose 1 4 protruding below the spring becomes open

End of the spring bounded by a sloping wall 1 7, in the locked state, the limiting wall 1 7 runs parallel to the wall 7, in the locked state, as shown in Figure 1, there is a game between the wall 1 7 and Wall 7. This can be a few tenths of a millimeter. In the present case it is, for example, 0.5 mm.

If the locking surface 8 contacts the locking surface 16, the aforementioned play of 0.5 mm occurs between the delimiting wall 17 and the delimiting wall 7. At the same time, a gap remains on the surface of the floor, for example 2.5 mm thick. In the locked state, there is therefore initially a game between the panels 1 and 2. This makes it possible to connect the panels to one another, although the locking surfaces 8 and 16 in the present example run vertically or at least almost vertically. Even a ^• undercut is possible The game is then typically 2/1 0 millimeters and more, how the game should be large expediently depends in particular on the shape and dimension of the contact surfaces 8 and 1 6 off A person skilled in the individual case by a few experiments determine how large the play should be at least in order to enable the connection even with steep, vertical or undercut contact surfaces 8 and 16. For this reason it can also be expedient to provide a much larger play of 1 mm, for example,

In the locked state, panel 1 can be moved relative to panel 2 along the connecting joint 11. This can be desirable when laying in order to bring the panels into the final position. Compared to the prior art, as is known, for example, from publication W097 / 47834 AI, moving is particularly easy,

In order to prevent moisture and dust from entering the gap that remains on the surface 9 of the two panels at the connecting joint 11, a lacing or rod-like element 18 is or is introduced, the lacing or rod-like In the present case, element 1 8 has a rectangular cross section and thus essentially corresponds to the shape of the gap. The cord-like or rod-like element 1 8 is flush with the surface 9 of the panels 1 and 2,

The lacing or rod-like element 1 8 is preferably somewhat wider than the gap into which the lacing or rod-like element is introduced. In the present case, it is therefore somewhat wider than 2.5 mm, the depth of the lacing or rod-like element 1 8 corresponds to the thickness of the flank 4, in the present case the lacing or rod-like element is 2.8 mm deep and sits on the upper side of the spring 1 2. This ensures that the cord-like or rod-like element 1 8 does not get so deep into the gap that a flush finish on the surface 9 is not achieved.

The lace-like or rod-like element 1 8 consists in the present case of a silicone material, which is elastic and can therefore be pressed together,

The gap into which the lace-like or rod-like element 1 8 is introduced extends downward. In the present case, the expansion runs in a funnel shape through the walls 1 9 and 20, the expansion can be minimal, a few tenths of a millimeter are sufficient. As a result of the widening, the lacing or rod-like element 18 extends into the region of the recess when it is somewhat wider than the gap. This ensures that the lacing or rod-like element 1 8 is firmly seated in the gap. An undesired loosening of the lacing or rod-like element in the installed state is thus counteracted.

The lacing or rod-like element 1 8 can thus be introduced into the gap during the laying process. However, it is also possible that a panel 1 or 2 has already been connected by the manufacturer to the cord-like or rod-like element 1 8. Because of the compressibility of the material, it can be compared to the prior art, as is known from the publication W097 / 47834 AI achieve the desired effects, a comparatively easy displacement along a common connecting joint is possible with interconnected panels, the connection succeeds even with vertical or undercut contact surfaces 8 and 1 6,

The embodiment according to FIG. 2 differs from the embodiment as shown in FIG. 1, in particular by undercut locking or contact surfaces 8 and 1 6. This ensures particularly well that the panel 2 cannot be detached from the panel 1 when the panel 2 in

Direction of arrow 21 is drawn, this embodiment is particularly advantageous in the case of an elastic flank 5,

The embodiment according to FIG. 3 differs from that

Embodiments according to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 by providing a further cord-like or rod-like element 22, which is introduced between the locking surfaces 8 and 16. This has the effect that the play between the panels is relatively large in relation to the embodiments according to FIGS

Figures 1 and 2 can be without having to enlarge the lacing or rod-like element 1 8 on the surface 9 of the panels 1 and 2. In addition, the lacing or rod-like element 22 is able to compensate for shrinking effects which can occur in particular if the panels are made from a wood material,

If panels with a rectangular surface are used, the embodiment according to FIG. 3 on the narrow sides is to be preferred, since shrinking effects are particularly pronounced here noticeable, the effect of shrinking effects is less on the long sides,

If panels are made of a wood material, they shrink regularly at warm temperatures. If panels made of a heating material are exposed to damp rooms, they expand regularly. The embodiment according to FIG. 3 is therefore preferably provided in rooms that are heated regularly. One example would be a living room of a family home,

The lacing or rod-like element 22, which is located between the contact or locking surfaces 8 and 16, has, in cross-section, regularly smaller dimensions in comparison to the lacing or rod-like element 18, which adjoins the surface 9 of the floor , In the present case, the cross section of the lacing or rod-like element 22 is approximately square. The square is approximately 1 mm × 1 mm.

In the embodiment according to FIG. 4, the recess 6 has a further recess or recess 23, the recess 23 adjoins the locking surface 8, in the recess 23 there is a cord-like or rod-like element 22. In the non-compressed state, this protrudes laces or rods

Element 22 partially out of the further recess 23. If panel 2 is connected to panel 1, the nose 1 4 first presses the cord-like or rod-like element 22 completely into the recess 23, as is indicated in FIG. 4.

If panel 2 is subsequently moved in the direction of panel 1, the cord-like or rod-like element 22 relaxes and arrives between the locking surfaces 8 and 1 6. This state is illustrated in FIG. 5. In itself, that would have been compressed element must be shown elliptically. For the sake of clarity, the presentation differs from reality.

In the embodiment according to FIG. 4, the length of the nose 1 2 is dimensioned such that the panel 2 can be brought into the position shown in FIG. 4 by a vertical lowering relative to the panel 1. The lowering movement is indicated by the arrow 24 Panel 2 pushed along arrow 25 in the direction of panel 1, The way around which

Panel 2 is moved, is very small and can be limited to a few 1/10 millimeters. If the displacement path is very short, the times required for laying can be reduced accordingly. This is particularly the case compared to the prior art mentioned at the beginning , for example compared to the prior art, as is known from the publication W097 / 47834 AI,

An embodiment in which a vertical lowering along the arrow 24 is possible in a first step is preferably used on the narrow sides of a panel with a rectangular surface. On the long sides, such a connection type is preferred in which the connection is made by a rotary movement around the connection joint 1 1 succeeds, such a prior art, in which the connection by a

Rotational movement is caused, for example, from the document WO01 / 48332 AI or from the document US 4,426,820.

If panel 2 has been pushed along arrow 25 in the direction of panel 1, the situation shown in FIG. 5 is reached. A lacing or rod-like element 1 8 (finally) is then introduced into the connecting joint 11 and the connection is completed. It may be sufficient, panel 2 only to shift by one to two millimeters in order to get from the situation according to FIG. 4 to the situation according to FIG. 5, this distance is still relatively short compared to the distances used in the prior art, for example as described in EP 00843763 Bl is known, are required

FIG. 6 indicates that the panel shown in FIG. 2 is locked to the panel 1 by a rotary movement around the connecting joint 11. In this case, the spring 122 can be relatively long in comparison to the embodiment according to FIG. so that a connection is no longer possible, which initially comprises a lowering movement according to arrow 24 (FIG. 4), then a relatively stable, form-fitting connection is achieved perpendicular to the floor surface in comparison to FIG. 4,

The lacing or rod-like element 22 can have a circular cross section. The diameter is approx. 2 mm. The depression 23, in which the lacing or rod-like element 22 is partially located, typically has a comparable width. In the example, the width would then be 2 mm. The depth can be half the size, it would be 1 mm,

If a panel comprises two lacing or rod-like elements in the aforementioned manner, then a lacing or rod-like element can

1 8 can be introduced particularly easily from the surface, by first pressing the gap on the surface against the elastic properties of the cord-like or rod-like element 22 with the aid of an appropriate tool. In the pressed-apart state, the width of the gap on the surface is in particular wider than the width of the cord or rod-like element 1 8, which is to be brought into the gap. The cord-like or rod-like element 1 8 can then be inserted particularly easily. Subsequently the tool is removed and panel 1 is brought up to the panel 2 due to the expansion of the lacing or rod-like element 22, this displacement due to the expansion of the lacing or rod-like element 22 stops as soon as an equilibrium of forces is reached, there is then no gap on the Surface,

The lacing or rod-like element 1 8 on the surface 9 then protects against the ingress of dust and moisture,

FIG. 7 shows an advantageous embodiment of a cord-like or rod-like element 18 which is introduced from the surface. In cross section, this lacing or rod-like element 18 has a kind of barbs 26 and 27 on both sides, in order to create the lacing or rod-like element

To be able to compress element 1 8 particularly well laterally, an arched recess 28 is provided on the underside. Furthermore, the cord-like or rod-like element 18 can have a thread 29 in the interior, for example, in order to avoid stretching effects. The thread 29 therefore consists of a non-stretchable material which is encased in FIG. 7 by a compressible material such as silicone.

The surface 30 of the cord-like or rod-like element 18, which is visible in the inserted state, can be designed to be flat in order to be able to achieve a flat termination with the panel surface 9.

Figure 8 shows two panels 1 and 2, in which the tongue 1 2 of the panel 2 has been pushed into the groove 3 of the panel 1.

The protruding flank 5 has a cutout 30 which is rectangular in section on the upper side. The spring 1 2 has on the underside a cutout 31 which is rectangular in section. The two cutouts 30 and 31 are of equal width, they are located one above the other when the tongue 1 2 of the panel 2 has been pushed completely into the groove 3 of the panel 1, so that no gap remains at the joint joint 1 1, the recesses 30 and 31 form a channel into which a rod or cord-like element is pushed in to lock panel 1 with panel 2 parallel to the surface 9 and perpendicular to the connecting joint 1 1. The movement of panel 2 in the direction of panel 1 is easily accomplished up to the position shown in FIG. 8 because no protruding locking element has to be overcome. In the state shown in FIG. 8, it is also very easy to move a panel 2 relative to the panel 1 along the joint joint, since the panels are only locked perpendicular to surface 9.

Figure 9 differs from Figure 8 by a rod-like

Element 32, which is finally pushed into the channel formed by the recesses 30 and 31, the rod-like element 32 is at least almost as wide as the width of the recesses 30 and 31, so that there is no gap at the connecting joint 11 on the surface 9, The material from which the rod-like or cord-like element 32 consists then preferably consists of a material which is not compressible or incompressible, so as to avoid the formation of a gap on the surface 9 at the connecting joint 11. Metal or a wood-based material can therefore be used as the material.

If the panels 1 and 2 form a closed surface in the manner shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, it is expedient, for example for optical reasons, to also provide coupling elements on the other sides such that a closed surface

Surface is formed. In particular, it is expedient to then design narrow sides of a panel with a rectangular surface such that the final locking takes place by pushing a rod 32 in. On the long sides then to prefer such coupling elements in which the connection takes place by means of a rotary movement about a connecting joint, no gap then also remains on the surface 9 between two panels 1 and 2, the joint 11 is therefore closed, this embodiment is shown in FIG , The

Contact surfaces 8 and 1 6 run obliquely in order to enable a connection by means of a rotary movement in spite of a lack of play. The protruding flank 5 is preferably of rigid design in order to ensure stable locking of the panels 1 and 2 in the installed state,

If the panels 1 and 2 are designed in an alternative embodiment to FIGS. 8 and 9 in such a way that a gap remains on the surface 9 at the connecting joint 11, then a rod-like or cord-like element 18 is expediently introduced into this, which for Example consists of silicone or rubber, expediently the rod-like or cord-like element 32 consists of Teflon or a material with comparable flexibility and smooth surface, then the rod-like or cord-like element 32 can be pushed into the through the recesses

30 and 31 formed channel relatively easily, especially when the narrow sides of a panel are designed in this way, compared to the long sides, lower frictional forces occur on the narrow sides, which counteract a pushing in

The cross section of the rod-like element can be shaped differently. This can be constricted. The cross sections of the recesses 30 and 31 are then appropriately shaped so that undercut contact surfaces

8 and 33 and 34 and 35 are present, FIG. 1 1 illustrates the embodiment, In order not to have to pay attention to a special position when pushing in, the rod-shaped element has a circular cross-section. The recesses 30 and 31 are correspondingly semicircular, as shown in FIG.

Pushing the rod 32 in is particularly easy if at least one side tapers, preferably both sides then tapers, so that the user or consumer does not have to pay attention to the end with which the rod should be threaded into the channel.

In Figure 1 1 the case is shown that the recesses 30 and 31 taper towards the opening. The associated rod-shaped element 32 has a constriction. Undercut contact surfaces result. This embodiment is particularly advantageous if the flanks 4 and 5 of the groove 3 have the same length, since they are then relatively thin and therefore relatively flexible,

Figure 1 2 shows an embodiment in which the locking element 36 of the panel 2 can be brought into the recess of the panel 1 by lowering it vertically. The two locking elements 36 and 37 have semicircular recesses 30 and 31 into which a round rod 32 is inserted for the purpose of final locking. No gap or play remains at the connecting joint 1 1. A vertical lowering of panel 2 relative to panel 1 is sufficient for the connection, without the panels subsequently having to be displaced.

If connecting elements according to FIG. 1 2 are not provided on all sides of a panel, it is again particularly advantageous to provide an embodiment in the case of a panel with a rectangular surface on the long sides, in which the connection takes place by means of a rotary movement about a connecting joint 1 1, reference is made, for example, to FIG. 1 0, which shows such coupling elements. An embodiment according to FIG. 1 2 is then provided on the narrow sides, such a panel being attached to another the

Longitudinal sides connected by a rotary movement around the joint joint, so it can be connected to an adjacent, already installed panel via narrow sides, without this panel having to be finally moved to the final position

Locking is then only pushed a rod 32 into the channel, which is formed by the recesses 30 and 32.

The shape of the recesses 30, 31 and 37 and of the locking element 37 can differ from that shown in FIG

Embodiment differ. The only thing that matters is that the shapes are such that the desired glue-free locking is finally possible in the directions mentioned,

Through the invention, the following method for

To connect two panels to provide, A panel 1 is brought together with a panel 2 so that recesses 30 and 31 form a channel, The coupling elements are designed so that the panels are then locked in a first direction, In the channel is then a rod-shaped

Inserted element. The coupling elements are designed so that the two panels are then locked both perpendicular to the common surface 9 and parallel to the common surface 9 and at the same time perpendicular to the connecting joint 11.

The element 32 can also consist of an elastic material with a preferably high restoring force. It can then already be fastened in the factory in one of the two recesses 30 or 31 The cord-like element then consists in particular of silicone or a hard PVC,

A rod or cord-like element in the sense of the invention is present in particular if the diameter is at least 0.5 mm, preferably at least 1 mm. If the rod or cord-like element has a rectangular cross section, the length and width of the rectangle are preferred at least

0.5 mm, particularly preferably at least 1 mm. A rod-like or cord-like element in the sense of the invention is also present in particular if it is an independent part, which as such can be glued to a panel in one embodiment, the physical properties do not change.

Then such a rod-like or cord-like element is to be distinguished in one embodiment from the case in which one

Paste or the like is applied to a panel in a flowable state and the paste subsequently solidifies,

Figures 1 3 and 1 4 show embodiments which are a further development of those shown in Figures 4 and 5

Represent embodiments,

In FIG. 1 3, the coupling elements on the long side of an already laid panel 1 are shown in section. The panel 1 has a lower, protruding flank 5 on the long side. In the protruding flank 5 there is a groove-shaped recess 6 with a groove-shaped recess 23. A cord 22 has been inserted into the recess 23 within the recess. The cord comprises a chord or thread 29 made of a material with low elastic properties, which is encased by a rubber or silicone. Because of the chord, the cord 22 does not change its length. A second panel 2 was attached to the first panel 1 with its long side slanted and by swiveling into the common panel level 9 brought. As a result, the panel 2 was connected to the already installed panel 1 in such a way that they are connected to one another by positive locking parallel to the common surface 9 and perpendicular to the common joint 11.

The spring 1 2 of the panel 2 is just short enough in the present case to connect the panel 2 by lowering the panel 1 in the aforementioned manner. After the lowering, the panel 2 would have had to be pushed in the direction of the panel 1 in order to to reach situation shown in Figure 1, 3

Spring 1 2 could have been longer, since a connection by slanting and subsequent pivoting on the long sides is basically unproblematic,

A second panel 2a was placed obliquely on the longitudinal edge of the first laid panel 1 and connected to it in the aforementioned manner by pivoting it,

The narrow sides of panels 2 and 2a shown in FIG. 14 are such that locking elements 1 4 and 1 0 engage one behind the other when one panel 2a is suitably lowered relative to the other panel 2, with the corresponding positioning of the last two panels 2 and 2a there is already a lock after lowering the panel 2a, which the two panels 2 and 2a parallel to the common

Surface 9 and perpendicular to the joint joint 1 1 locked together, then the last two panels 2 and 2a are pushed towards each other. The tongue 1 2 of the panel 2a comes into the groove 3 of the other panel 2. The two panels 2 and 2a are thus also connected to one another vertically to the floor level, as shown in FIG. If necessary, the two last installed panels 2 and 2a are pushed in the direction of the already installed panel 1, whereby a classic tongue and groove Connection is also created between the panel 1 and the panels 2 and 2a. The classic tongue and groove connection locks the two panels 1 and 2 as well as 1 and 2a vertically to the common surface 9 by positive locking 5,

The protruding lip 5 on the narrow side of the panel 2 also has the previously described groove 6 with a recess 23, the recess 23 adjoins the one protruding upwards

0 locking element 1 0, which is located at the open end of the protruding lip or flank 5, when the two panels 2 and 2a are pushed together, the cord-shaped element 22, which has a circular cross section in FIG. 1 4, is pushed into the channel,

5 which is formed by the aforementioned recess 23 and the area of the latter panel 2a located above, the locking element 1 4 of the panel 2a, which extends downward, contributes to the provision of the channel into which the cord-shaped element 22 - as in FIG Figure 1 4 shown in section

-0 - has been pushed in, the dimensions can be chosen such that a play remains between the cord-shaped element 22 and the aforementioned channel, the pushing-in of the cord-shaped element 22 is then particularly easy,

-5 It is now shown in Figure 1 5a in a side view and in the

Figure 1 5b used tool 40 shown in a front view. The base body 41 is essentially cuboid. A channel 42 leads through the cuboid body 41. The channel 42 begins at an end face 43 (front), since this

30 end face is typically not covered during use of the tool 40. It ends on the underside 44, namely near the other end face 45 (rear) of the cuboid body 41. The channel 42 has a rectangular cross section, as can be seen in FIG. 15 b. It preferably widens, for example to the end face 43 to simplify the pushing in of a cord-shaped element 1 8, the longer sides 45 a of the rectangular cross section run parallel to the side walls of the tool 40, that is from bottom to top, the

5 dimensions of the cross section of the channel 42 are adapted to the cord-shaped element 1 8 in such a way that it will not twist within the channel 42. In the embodiment shown, it is practically not possible due to the adjustment that the cord-shaped element 1 8 is twisted by 90 ° in channel 42

0 to introduce

The tool 40 is used as a laying aid for laying the panels 1, 2, 2a. With the support of the laying aid, the cord-like element 1 8 is brought into the joint 1 1, which is formed by the 5 panels 1 and 2,

A spring 46 protrudes from the underside 44 of the tool 40, the spring 46 is arranged below the channel 42, the spring 46 tapers downward (as seen from the tool 41), as can be seen in: 0 of FIG.

In one embodiment, the spring 46 comprises a first region 47 lying at the front, which is narrower than the subsequent rear region 48. The narrower region 47 is - as from FIG

! 5 15a can be seen - preferably longer, for example approximately twice as long as the thicker area 48, in order to make handling easy. The front end 49 of the spring 46 can taper further in comparison to the narrow area 47, around the spring of the laying aid bring in the gap of a joint 1 1, the

30 due to two brought together in the aforementioned manner

Panels 1, 2 are present. Providing a taper 50 of the spring 46 to the rear ensures in an improved manner that the laying aid 41 can finally be pulled out of the joint 11 again. in particular without causing damage to panels 1, 2,

The width of the spring 46 is initially dimensioned outwards, in particular downwards or forwards, so that it can be inserted into the gap in the joint 11, which at least remains on the surfaces of two panels 1, 2 brought together, tapers the spring 46, for example, sufficiently downwards, the spring 46 can be brought into the aforementioned gap 1 1 from above by lowering. If the spring 46 tapers towards the front, this taper 47, 49 can be introduced into the gap 1 1 and so the spring 46 can be brought between the panels 1, 2.

The wider area 48 of the spring 46 is dimensioned such that the two panels 1 and 2 are pressed apart when the spring 46 is inserted further between the panels 1 and 2 and the wider area 48 is thus suitably passed between the panels 1 and 2, By pushing apart, the cord-like element 22 is compressed, which was initially inserted into the recess 23 of the recess 6 in the form of a groove in the panel 1,

A cord-like or rod-like element 18, preferably made of silicone, which preferably has an approximately rectangular or at least elongate cross-section, is introduced into the channel 42 of the laying aid 41, preferably from the end face 43. The dimensions are such that the width of the cord-like element 1 8 is matched to the width of the channel 42. Furthermore, the height of the cord-like element

1 8 matched to the height of channel 42. There remains play between the cord-like element 18 and the channel 42, so that the cord-like element can be pushed through the channel 42. The cord-like element 18 can be pushed through the tool due to the play and reappears behind the spring 46 close to the rear end wall 45 on the underside 44, the dimensions of the approximately rectangular

Cross sections are selected such that the cord-like element 18 within the channel 42 will not twist when it is pushed or pulled through the channel 42,

If the cord-like element 18 is pushed through the tool 40, the spring 46 with a tapering area is inserted between the first panel 1 and the second panel 2 into the gap 11 between them. The laying aid 40 is then particularly at the beginning a joint 1 1, into which the cord-like element is to be inserted.

The laying aid or, respectively, the tool 40 is provided in one embodiment of the invention with rollers 51 and 52 in order to use the rollers 51, 52 to easily move the tool 40 along the

Connection joint 1 1 to move, otherwise the tool 40 slides over the panels 1 and 2, There is a risk that the surface of the panels 1 and 2 can be damaged.

If the laying aid 40 is moved or moved along the joint 1 1, which is located between the panels 1 and 2, and the spring 46 is located in the gap of the joint 1 1, the panels 1 and 2 are initially through the wider area 48 of the spring 46 pressed apart. In this case, the first cord-shaped insert initially inserted into the groove or recess 23

Element 22 compressed. The wider area 48 of the spring 46 is dimensioned such that the second cord-like element 18, which protrudes from the underside 44 of the laying aid 40, is easily pressed into the connecting joint 11. The dimensions are preferably such that a small one There remains play between the cord element 1 8 and the pressed apart panels 1 and 2 in order to facilitate the introduction of the cord-like element 1 8 into the connecting joint 11. The cord-like element 1 8 thus usually comes from above into the connecting joint 1 1.

If the tool 41 is moved further along a joint 1 1, the connecting joint 1 1 closes a little behind the laying aid 40 again due to the pressure which has been brought about by the first, compressed, cord-like element 22 closed again somewhat, the cord-like element 1 8 is held between two panels 1 and 2 on the basis of a suitably provided dimensioning and / or shape by positive locking and / or frictional locking,

In an advantageous embodiment, the tool 40 has a roller 51 at the rear end near the end wall 45, which rolls above the connecting joint. This ensures that a smooth transition between the panels 1 and 2 and the cord-like element 18 on the surface is achieved.

This fold is not shown in FIGS. 1 5 a and 1 5 b,

In one embodiment, the laying aid 40 is moved until a first transverse joint 60 is reached, as can be seen from FIG. 1 6, which shows a top view of panels 1, 2, 2a, behind which

Laying aid 40 has then already reached a cord-like element 18 into the joint 11.

An eccentric element 70, which is shown in section in FIG. 19, is pushed laterally parallel to the transverse joint 60 between the second panel 2 and the third panel 2a. For this purpose, a gap or preferably a channel-like recess 71 (as shown in FIG. 17) is provided in the panel 2 and / or in the panel 2a, into which the eccentric elongate element 70 can be pushed in. The eccentric element 70 is pushed in so that the narrower side of the eccentric element (eccentric) borders on the two panels 2 and 2a. The dimensions are such that it can be easily pushed in. In one embodiment, the

Support a game remain between the eccentric element 70 and the two panels 2 and 2a,

If the eccentric element 70 has been pushed between the two panels, the eccentric element 70 is rotated by approximately 90 ° with the aid of a lever 73 shown in FIG. 1 9, as indicated by the arrow 72 in FIG. As a result, the gap 60 shown in FIG. 1 6 widens, which is located on the surface on the transverse sides between the second panel 2 and the third panel 2a.

Rotation compresses the cord-like element 22, which was previously pushed into the channel provided for this purpose within the transverse joint 60. The position of the eccentric element rotated by 90 ° is shown in FIG.

The eccentric element 70 can be bent at the end of the lever 73 such that this bent end 74 can be introduced into the lateral groove of one of the two panels 2 or 2a. The position of the eccentric element 70 rotated by 90 ° is held. Otherwise, ensure that the eccentric element 70 is held in the twisted position in another way.

In order to facilitate the introduction of the eccentric element 70 into the channel 71 provided for this purpose or a sufficiently wide gap, this preferably has a taper 75. This tapered region is first introduced into the channel 71 provided for this purpose or the sufficiently wide gap provided for this purpose. Another cord-like element 18, which preferably has an approximately rectangular or elongated cross section, can be pressed from above into the gap which is located on the transverse side 60 between the second panel 2 and the third panel 2a Are pushed in from the side, especially since the dimensions in this position are such that the cord-like element 1 8 is located in the joint with play, as is illustrated in FIG. 1 8,

The transverse side 60 is in particular a

Narrow side, if the panels 1, 2, 2a have a rectangular surface,

The eccentric 70 is then rotated back into the starting position, the groove on the transverse side 60 closes somewhat and the previously compressed cord-like element 22 relaxes, the cord-like element 18 with the preferably rectangular cross section is now in the fixed state between the second Panel 2 and the third panel 2a, the fixation can have been achieved by positive locking and / or frictional locking, according to FIG. 1 7, the fixing is achieved in particular due to positive locking, but also due to frictional engagement, since then the cord-like element 1 8 with the preferably elongated cross section is slightly pressed in the joint,

The eccentric 70 is then pulled out of the channel 71 or a corresponding gap. The laying aid 40 is continued until the next transverse joint is reached. In this way, the joints 1 1, 60 (or, column) with cord-like

Provide elements 1 8, which are visible from above, until the panels 1, 2, 2a are completely surrounded by the lacing or rod-like elements 1 8. It has been shown that, by means of the invention, the panels can be laid over a large area without having to provide joints in the floor covering,

In one embodiment, the laying aid 40 has a side

Recess on, the laying aid 40 is moved during the laying so that the recess is aligned with a joint that originates from a transverse side 60, in particular a narrow side can be inserted in such a way that it reaches all the way to the cord-like or rod-like element 1 8, which is brought into a joint 1 1 by means of the laying aid,

In a further embodiment of the invention, the spring 46 is arranged below the laying aid in such a way that it tapers down along its entire length so that the spring can be inserted into the joint from above. This is particularly advantageous if Walls limit the lateral access to a joint,

In one embodiment of the invention, there is a taper or step-shaped narrowing 76 downwards in the joint 11 that borders on the top 9 of the panels 1, 2, 2a. The tool 40 with the spring 46 underneath is then open this joint is coordinated with the constriction 76 such that the two panels 1 and 2 are pressed apart only due to a pressure which is in the lower region, that is to say in the region of the constriction 76 and

Rejuvenation is exercised

Even in the compressed or relaxed state of the already inserted rod-shaped or cord-shaped element 22, which in particular has a circular cross section, the spring 46 of the laying aid 40 is located with play within the connecting joint 11, as far as the upper region, that is to say above the Constriction 76 is affected, this ensures that the upper edge of the panels 1 and 2 is not exposed to any mechanical loads, in particular if the laying aid 40 is pulled out of the connecting joint 11, otherwise the upper edges of the panels 1 and 2 could be undesirably damaged and thus the optics are impaired

In a further embodiment of the invention, there is a recess 11 within the joint 11 between two panels 1 and 2, specifically this recess is located above the aforementioned taper or step-like narrowing 76. If the cord-like element 18 is inserted into the connecting joint 11 introduced, it fills this recess 77, in particular due to lugs 78 projecting laterally on the cord-like or rod-like element 1 8, which then results in an improved hold of the rod-like or cord-like element 1 8 in the joint 11, specifically because of the positive locking achieved in this way, the rod-like or cord-like element 1 8 then sits particularly reliably between the two panels 1 and 2,

In one embodiment of the invention, the laying aid 40 has a relatively wide roller 80 on an upper or front side, which is in particular wider than the wheels or rollers 51 and 52,

This is therefore preferably significantly wider than the rollers on the underside. This roller 80 on the top or front side serves to finally roll over the connecting joint 1 1, 60 again. If a rod-like or cord-like element 1 8 protrudes a little undesirably from the joint 1 1, 60, it can be improved. The rollers 52 and 80 in the laying aid 40, which serves to exert pressure on the cord-like element 1 8 in order to bring it into the connecting joint 1 1, 60, are preferably made of a hard material. A metal is particularly suitable. The rollers 51, 52 on the bottom of the laying aid 40 preferably protrude so far that the distance between the bottom of the laying aid and the panels 1, 2 is very small. In one embodiment, for example, the distance can be only a few tenths of a millimeter, for example 2/1 0 mm. In this case, it is advantageous to also produce front rollers 51 of the laying aid 40, which only serve as guides, from a hard material In any case, the material should be so little compressible that the distance of 1/1 0 to 2/1 0 mm between the bottom of the

Laying aid 40 and the surface 9 of the panels 1, 2 is observed.

FIG. 20 shows a further embodiment of the invention, namely panels 2 and 2a, in which at least one side is through

Lowering can be connected to each other, this means that a panel 2a can be held parallel to the already installed panel 2 and lowered for the purpose of connecting, while the lowering the parallel position can be maintained, panel 2a has been lowered so far that it is in the same plane as the panel 2, then there is a downwardly projecting nose 14 in an upwardly open recess 6, parallel to the surface 9 and perpendicular to the joint, the panels 2 and 2a are then interlocked by positive locking, that at the end of the lower protruding lip 5, the locking element directed upwards is then bent slightly outwards, which can in particular be favored by a bevel 90, which is advantageously located below the locking element,

First of all, a gap of, for example, 2.5 mm remains on the surface 9 of the panels 2, 2a. If a cord-like element of, for example, 2.2 mm width is now placed in this gap, this is possible without any problem, since there is play After inserting the cord-like element, panel 2 is pushed approx. 0.5 mm in the direction of panel 2, so that the spring 1 2, which is relatively short here, gets into the groove 3 and thus a lock is obtained vertically to the surface 9, this displacement movement of a few 10th mm is used to bring the cord-like element pressed between the joint that is provided on the surface 9,

The coupling elements according to Figure 20 can be used on all sides, since the locking in vertical

If the direction is relatively weak, it is preferable to use these coupling elements, which comprise a spring 12 protruding relatively short into the groove 3, only on the transverse sides 60,

FIG. 21 shows an embodiment of the invention, which is to be preferred if only a rod-like or cord-like element 18 is brought between two panels 1 and 2 from the top 9, if the cord-like element is not between the two panels 1 and 2 in brought as shown, so are the two

Panels preferably locked together in such a way that a little play remains,

The panels 1 and 2 shown in FIG. 21 are designed in such a way that a gap remains at the top of the joint 1 1. The gap is preferably somewhat less wide (a few tenths of a millimeter) than the rod-like or cord-like element 1 8 rod-like or cord-like element pressed into the gap from above, this then comes slightly compressed into the gap. This ensures that the top is sealed watertight. Moisture problems are avoided

In the embodiment shown, the gap shown in FIG. 21 extends to the top of the spring 1 2, Aus This is expedient for manufacturing reasons, but is not necessary for carrying out the invention,

In order to ensure a precise and reliable fit of the rod-like or cord-like element 1 8 between the panels 1 and 2, this is held in the desired position by positive locking. In the present case, there are at least one, preferably two, protruding lugs 95 within the gap, which are laterally connected to the respective panel. These protruding lugs not only serve the aforementioned positive locking, but also form a narrowing inside the groove, the narrowing of the groove is advantageous in order to be able to use a tool (laying aid) to push the two panels apart in the manner already described, without damaging the edges on the surface 9,

A rod-like or cord-like element 18, as can be used in the panels 1 and 2 shown in FIG. 21, is shown in section in FIGS. 22 and 23. It has at least one preferably two recesses 96 on the side, the recesses 96 cooperate with the protruding lugs 95 in such a way that the desired form fit is achieved,

There is preferably a groove 97 on the underside of the rod-like or cord-like element 18, which means that the rod-like or cord-like element has a groove 97

Element 1 8 on two legs, which can be easily pressed together sufficiently. It is then particularly easy to press the rod-like or cord-like element 1 8 into the gap provided at the joint 1 1,

The rod-like or cord-like element 18 tapers like a funnel on the underside. The correspondingly inclined surface areas 98 ensure that the stαb- or cord-like element 1 8 can be easily brought into the gap,

The rod-like or cord-like element 18 shown in FIG. 22 preferably consists of a relatively hard, but nevertheless sufficiently elastic material, for example a hard PVC material,

The embodiment shown in FIG. 23 is preferred. Here there is an upper region 99 of rod-like or cord-like

Elements 1 8 made of a comparatively soft, elastic material such as which PVC material, if the lower area 1 00 is made of a relatively hard material such as hard PVC. The area made of harder material particularly well ensures the proper, reliable fit of a rod - or cord-like element between two panels 1 and 2, the part consisting of a relatively soft area 99 ensures that the rod-like or cord-like element 1 8 can also be pressed together here, thus ensuring that the rod-like or cord-like element 1 8 can get completely into the gap between two panels 1 and 2, even if it is somewhat narrower. The upper region 99 is then advantageously lightly pressed between the two panels in order to protect against the ingress of moisture, dust, etc.

Claims

Expectations

1 . Components for the provision of a covering, in particular for a floor.

2, components according to claim 1 comprising panels (1, 2, 2a) which have coupling elements (3, 1 2, 6, 14) such that two panels (1, 2, 2a) are both perpendicular to the joint (1 1 ) and can be connected parallel to the surface (9) as well as perpendicular to the common surface (9) by positive locking,

marked by

a lacing or rod-like element (1 8, 22, 32) which is located in a recess (1 1, 23) between the panels (1, 2, 2a).

3, components according to claim 1 or 2 comprising panels (1, 2, 2a), in which the lacing or rod-like element (1 8, 22, 32) is wider than the width of the recess, in particular if the panels (1, 2 , 2a) are connected to one another,

4, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a), in which the lacing or rod-like element (1 8, 22, 32) consists of a compressible material, in particular of Teflon, silicone or rubber.

5, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a), in which the panels (1, 2, 2a) in particular including the coupling elements (3, 1 2, 6, 1 4, 36, 37) consist entirely or predominantly of a ceramic, stone, plastic, wood and / or of a wood material,

6. Components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a), in which at least one panel (1, 2, 2a) has a carrier plate made of a wood-based material, in particular an HDF or MDF carrier plate,

7, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a), in which a decorative paper or a decor is provided on the top (9).

8, Components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a), in which at least one panel (1, 2, 2a) has a carrier plate which consists of a plurality of papers pressed together, which are in particular provided with amino resin.

9, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a) and a lacing or rod-like element (1 8, 22, 32) separated from the panels (1, 2, 2a), which in the recess (23 , 1 1, 60) by press fit and / or form fit and / or by

Adhesion is maintained,

1 0. Components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a) with a game, which occurs in two interconnected panels (1, 2, 2a) at least when no lacing or rod-like elements (1 8, 22, 32) between the two panels (1, 2, 2a).

1 . Components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a) with vertical or undercut contact surfaces (8, 1 6, 33, 34, 35) of coupling elements which connect parallel to the surface (9) and perpendicular to the connecting joint (1 1) or perpendicular to the surface (9).

2. Components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a) with a groove (3) as a coupling element, which has a rigid or elastic lower flank

(5), which projects in particular relative to the upper flank (4) of the groove,

3. Components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a) with one from the top

(9) of the panel accessible recess, which occurs in the connected state of two panels at the connecting joint (1 1, 60) and which has a taper or constriction (76, 95) in its interior, which is in particular step-shaped.

4. Components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a) with a recess accessible from the top (9) of the panels, which occurs in the connected state of two panels at the connecting joint (1 1, 60) and which has an expansion (77) in its interior, which is preferably located above or below a taper or constriction (76, 95),

5, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a), in which the lacing or rod-like element on the surface (9) of the panels (1, 2, 2a) into the recess (1 1, 60) pressed in or is brought in.

6, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a), in which the coupling elements (3, 1 2, 6, 1 4) preferably on the long sides of the

Panels (1, 2, 2a) are designed in such a way that they can only be connected by rotating them around the joint joint (1 1).

7, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a), in which the coupling elements (3, 1 2, 6, 1 4) are preferably obtained on the narrow sides of the panels (1, 2, 2a) such that this by moving in a plane and / or by lowering a panel (2a) perpendicular to the surface

(9) of a second panel (2) can be connected.

8. Components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a), in which the lacing or rod-like element (1 8, 22, 32) at least 0.5, preferably at least 2 mm and / or at most 1 0 mm , preferably 5 mm wide.

9. Components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a), in which the cord-like or rod-like element (1 8, 22, 32) is located between two contact surfaces (8, 1 6), which have a locking mechanism in parallel to the common surface (9) and perpendicular to the common joint (1 1).

0, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a), in which the cord-like or rod-like element (1 8, 22, 32) in a recess (23) located and partially protrudes from it.

, Panels according to the preceding claim, in which the recess (23) borders on a contact surface (8) which serves to connect two panels, in particular parallel to the common surface (9),

, Components according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a lacing or rod-like element (1 8, 22, 32), in which the lacing or rod-like element (1 8,

22, 32) has a rectangular or substantially rectangular or elongated cross section,

, Components according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a lacing or rod-like element (1 8, 22,

32), in which the lacing or rod-like element (1 8, 22, 32) has a hook-shaped design on the side,

32), in which the lace-like or rod-like element (1 8, 22, 32) comprises a thread which is connected with compressible material and in particular is covered with compressible material,

, Components according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a lacing or rod-like element (1 8), in which the lacing or rod-like element (1 8) has an approximately cross-shaped cross section, which is preferably elongated,

, Components according to one of the preceding claims comprising a lacing or rod-like element (1 8), in which the lacing or rod-like element (1 8) a approximately cruciform cross-section which tapers towards one side and which is preferably elongated,

27, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising a lacing or rod-like element (1 8, 22) with a thread, in which the thread consists of a non-stretchable material, in particular of a glass fiber material,

28, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising a lacing or rod-like element (1 8) which has an upper region (99) made of relatively soft material and a lower region (1 00) made of relatively hard material,

29. Components according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a lacing or rod-like element (1 8) which has two legs at the bottom, which are separated from one another by a groove (97),

30, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising a lacing or rod-like element (1 8) which has a taper (98) towards the bottom,

31 Components according to one of the preceding claims, comprising panels (1, 2, 2a), in which the lacing or rod-like element (1 8, 22, 32) is vulcanized onto a panel and contacts the second panel when the first and the second panel are connected to each other,

32, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a) which are 6 to 1 5 mm thick and / or 1 00 to 2000 mm long and / or 1 00 to 2000 mm are wide,

3, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a) with a rod-shaped element (32) which can be inserted between two panels in a recess (30, 31) such that the positive locking between the both panels are present,

4, components according to the preceding claim, in which

Narrow sides of two panels (1, 2, 2a) with a rectangular surface or transverse sides (60) comprise the insertable cord or rod-shaped element,

35, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a), in which a lacing or rod-like element (1 8) visible from the common surface (9) is introduced into a recess (1 1) which has a widening (19, 20, 77) below the surface (9).

36, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a) with at least two cord-like or rod-like elements (1 8, 22, 32) which are provided between two interconnected panels (1, 2, 2a),

37. Components according to the preceding claim, in which the lower-lying lacing or rod-like element (22) seen from the surface (9) consists of a material which, in comparison to the material from which the higher-lying lacing or rod-like element ( 1 8), has a greater restoring force. 38, components according to the preceding claim, in which the lower-lying lacing or rod-like element (22) seen from the surface (9) has a smaller diameter or in terms of cross-section smaller dimensions than the higher-lying lacing or rod-like element ( 1 8).

39. Components according to one of the preceding claims comprising interconnected panels (1, 2, 2a).

40, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising a laying aid with which lace or rod-like elements (1 8, 22, 32) can be placed between two panels (1, 2, 2a) or which is used for lace or rod-like To bring elements (1 8, 22, 32) between two panels (1, 2, 2a),

41, components according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a laying aid (40) which comprises a channel (42) with a particularly elongated cross section which leads through the laying aid (40),

42, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising a laying aid (40), with a channel (42) which extends from an end wall (43) to the underside (44) of the component.

43, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising a laying aid (40) which has a projecting spring (46) on the underside (44) which tapers in particular downwards, forwards and / or backwards,

44, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising a laying aid (40) which on the underside (44) has a protruding spring (46) and a channel (42) passing through the component and ending on the underside (44) behind the spring (46),

45, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising a laying aid (40) which comprises a roller (51) on its underside (44), which is in particular arranged behind a spring (46) which projects on the underside (44).

46. Components according to one of the preceding claims comprising a laying aid (40), which comprises a roller (51) on its underside (44), which is arranged behind a spring (46) which projects on the underside (44), and ei - Nem through the laying aid (40) leading channel, which ends between the roller (51) and the spring (46),

47, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising a laying aid (40), which comprises a roller (52) on its underside (44) in front of one on the underside

(44) projecting spring (46) is arranged,

48. Components according to one of the preceding claims comprising a laying aid (40) which comprises a roller (52) on its upper side.

49, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising a laying aid (40) which comprises on its underside a spring (46) which can be inserted between two panels (1, 2, 2a) which are connected to one another in such a way that the panels thereby (1, 2, 2a) are pushed apart, , Components according to the preceding claim with a laying aid (40), in which the spring (46) can be inserted and / or removed between two panels (1, 2, 2a) which are connected to one another in such a way that a distance at the top ( 9) between the panels (1, 2,

2a) and the spring (46) remains,

, Components according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a laying aid (40) which has a recess laterally adjacent to its underside (44),

, Components according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a laying aid (70) which comprises an eccentric cross section,

, Components according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a cutting tool with which lacing or rod-like elements (1 8) can be cut, in particular in such a way that the lacing or rod-like elements after cutting at least as long as a transverse side (60) or one Narrow side of used panels (1, 2, 2a),

, Components according to the preceding claim, in which the cutting tool is designed such that the cord-like or rod-like elements after cutting prefer the length of a transverse side (60) or a narrow side of the panels (1, 2, 2a) used by a maximum of 2 by a maximum of 1 mm,

, Covering, in particular floor covering, formed from components (1, 2, 2a, 1 8, 22, 32) according to one of the preceding claims, 56, covering according to the preceding claim, in which each panel is framed with lacing or rod-like elements (1 8) from the common surface (9),

57, Method for laying a covering using components according to one of the preceding claims.

58. The method according to the preceding claim, in which the panels (1, 2, 2a) are connected to one another in such a way that they are positively locked to one another parallel to the common surface (9) and at the same time perpendicular to the common connecting joint (1 1), and by means of a Laying aid (40, 70) a rod or cord-like element (1 8) is brought between two panels (1, 2, 2a).

59. Method according to one of the preceding method claims, in which a laying aid (40) is moved or moved along a joint (1 1) and a rod-like or cord-like element (1 8) behind the laying aid (40) in the joint (1 1) arrives,

60. Method according to one of the preceding method claims, in which a laying aid (40) is moved or shifted along a joint (1 1) up to a transverse joint (60) and a rod-like or cord-like element (1 8) behind the laying aid ( 40) enters the joint (1 1), and then a rod-like or cord-like element (1 8) is brought into the transverse joint (60), preferably using an eccentric component (70),