WO2014026679A1

WO2014026679A1 - Covering consisting of mechanically interconnectable elements

Info

Publication number: WO2014026679A1
Application number: PCT/DE2013/100294
Authority: WO
Inventors: Guido Schulte
Original assignee: Guido Schulte
Priority date: 2012-08-15
Filing date: 2013-08-14
Publication date: 2014-02-20
Also published as: EP2885470B1; DE102012107469A1; EP2885470A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a covering consisting of mechanically interconnectable elements with the following features: a. on the sides (6, 31) thereof to be interconnected, the elements (1, 2) have corresponding profiling via which adjacent elements (1, 2) can be interlocked while being joined; b. the interlocking is effected by at least one spring element (11) which is articulated on one of the elements (2) and is pivotable during the joining motion behind a locking edge (28) of a groove (24) in the adjacent element (1); c. the spring element (11) is an integral component of the element (2) before the joining motion, the integral connection between the spring element (11) and the element (2) being configured as a designed breaking point which is intended to break during pivoting of the spring element (11); d. the spring element (11) is additionally joined to the element (2) in certain regions via an elastic material (22); e. means (16) for form-fitting and/or friction-fitting engagement of the spring element (11), relative to the element (2) on which the spring element (11) is mounted, in the end position thereof are arranged on the spring element (11).

Description

Surface made of mechanically interconnectable elements

The invention relates to a covering of mechanically interconnectable elements.

Wall, ceiling and floor coverings, such as Prefabricated parquets, wooden floors or laminate floors consist of several rows of mostly rectangular and partly square panels in your configuration. Conventionally, the panels have on a longitudinal side and on a head side through grooves and on the respective opposite longitudinal side or head side continuous springs, which are adapted to the groove form-fitting manner. Through the connection of tongue and groove the panels are laid.

It is known to form on the grooves and springs mechanical locking means which engage each other with adjacent panels in latching engagement. As a result, a joint formation by expansion or shrinkage operations should be avoided. At the tongue and groove of the panels are matched locking elements in the form of recesses, recesses or projections designed to connect and hold connected panels in the assembled position without glue. In general, the panels are rotated along their longitudinal sides into each other or clicked and then moved laterally, so that locking strips on the head sides engage. To facilitate this type of laying, light hammer blows can be exerted from the opposite side of the head. Here you have to be very careful to avoid damage to the floor panels.

But there are also solutions in which the abutting head sides are not locked together by hammer blows, but by sliding spring elements. An example of this is a floor covering, as described in DE 20 2007 018 662 U1. Identically formed panels are locked together by a substantially vertical joining movement in the horizontal and vertical directions. The locking in the vertical direction is effected by at least one horizontally movable, integrally formed out of the core spring element, which snaps in the joining movement behind a substantially horizontally extending locking edge. The at least one spring element is free in the direction of the upper side and in the direction of the opposite side edge relative to the core and connected in its side edge at at least one of the two ends to the core. The spring element must first be subjected to locking with a horizontally acting force to push it back before the built-up spring tension discharges and snaps the spring element behind the locking bar.

A further development is the subject of DE 10 2009 048 050 B3, with which a covering is shown, which can be locked securely with less effort. It is proposed that the spring element on the one hand partially via an elastic material with the core of the Panel is connected and on the other hand before the joining movement integral part of this panel. The connection is destroyed during joining, as it is configured as a predetermined breaking point. The spring is still held over the elastic material. Such a covering has the advantage that the springs are initially easier to produce that they do not have to be pushed back against the spring direction during joining and that they are held securely even after joining over the elastic material.

From DE 20 2010 017 748 U1 also a coating of mechanically connectable elements is known, in which the spring element is an integral part of the element and has a crimp. In the crimp an elastic material is arranged, which has a greater elasticity than the spring element. The crimp has opposing walls which are at least partially, in particular over the entire surface coated with the elastic material, wherein the coatings are arranged in the unlocked state at a distance from each other and are in the locked state in contact with each other to stick together. By this bonding an even stronger connection between the adjacent panels is achieved because the spring does not swing back so easily.

The invention is therefore based on the object to show a covering of mechanical interconnectable elements, in which the coupling of the spring element with the associated element in the pivoted state is even safer, so that the connection between the two elements is even more stable.

This object is achieved in a covering with the features of claim 1.

Advantageous developments of the inventive concept are the subject of the dependent claims. The covering according to the invention comprises mechanically connectable elements which have the following features: a. The elements have a corresponding profiling, via which adjacent elements can be locked together during assembly; b. The locking is effected by at least one spring element, which is articulated on one of the elements and which is pivotable in the joining movement behind a locking edge of a groove of the adjacent element; c. The spring element is an integral part of the element before the joining movement, wherein the one-piece connection between the spring element and the element is configured as a predetermined breaking point, which is intended to break during pivoting of the spring element; d. The spring element is additionally partially connected via an elastic material with the element. e. The spring element has means for positive and / or non-positive locking of the spring element in its end position, wherein the latching takes place relative to the element to which the spring element is attached.

Under a positive and / or non-positive locking snap connections are to be understood in particular, in which two components into each other and are pressed into each other so that friction creates a frictional connection and thereby an automatic sliding of the surfaces in contact is prevented. Alternatively or additionally, a form fit can occur, that is, geometries grip into one another, which prevent an automatic relocation of the mutually engaged components.

It is possible to provide means to improve the positive or frictional connection, be it by providing the inter-engaging surfaces at least partially with a coating having a high coefficient of friction and / or by intermeshing the surfaces in one and the same way Be profiled that obstructing slipping. By locking the spring element in its end position, d. H. in its pivoted-in position, the covering provided with the spring element can remain securely in the detent position.

The spring element can also be swung back again, as well as in the locked position, the elastic material is not separated from the spring element, but because he keeps the spring element still on the element. The spring element can even be solved several times from the end position, d. H. be released and then locked again. The only difference in the second and subsequent gift compared to the first pivoting is that the spring element in the starting position is no longer an integral part of the element, but after initial pivoting and the breakage of the predetermined breaking point between the initial and the final position is freely pivoted.

With the elements according to the invention, it is therefore possible to lock the elements together by means of a substantially vertical or pivoting joining movement in the horizontal direction and in the vertical direction. For example, if a misplaced first element is longitudinally connected to an element to be applied, the element to be applied must be folded down for connection to a third element. In this folding down, the said spring element can be used on the side of the element to be laid on the side of the strin. The spring element is then pivoted into the frontal, already laid element. The spring element breaks at the predetermined breaking point, is held over the elastic material and is pivoted during further folding of the element to be laid in the end position, where the spring element locked with the now swung down element and remains in this detent position.

As described above, these spring elements can be provided in particular on the top sides of the elements. Header pages are the short element pages. The profiling can in principle be provided on all sides, that is on the top sides and the long sides, preferably rectangular elements.

At least one spring element is provided on one side of an element. It is conceivable, at head ends that can not be pressed down parallel to already laid panels, but are folded down, the spring element form several pieces. That is, on one of the elements a plurality of spring elements are arranged on one side, which may be spaced apart from each other or may also be immediately adjacent. Adjacent spring elements can be coupled to one another via an elastic material. The separate spring elements are gradually pivoted behind a locking edge of a groove of the adjacent element. The locking edge extends substantially in the horizontal direction, so that the two interlockable elements against displacement in the vertical direction, d. H. are secured perpendicular to the laying plane. Additional locking strips may be provided on the elements to provide, in addition to the vertical locking, also the locking in the laying plane, i. H. to effect in a horizontal direction.

Preferably, the means for locking the spring element are at least partially uniform material integral part of the spring element. That is, they are made of the same material as the spring element, which in turn consists of the same material as at least the core of the element. The element itself, can be multi-layered, as it is typical for floor coverings. Manufacturing technology, it is easiest that the Means for locking at least partially integrally formed materially integral with the spring elements. If possible, such means for locking by milling processes in a continuous process can be made easily and quickly.

But with the invention it is also possible to provide means for locking, which are connected to the spring element. In this case, these are separate components, such as a protruding strip made of plastic, which is applied to the spring element due to their possibly more suitable for locking material properties.

Preferably, the means for locking are at least partially formed as a father's piece, for engaging in a trained as a mother piece recording on the element. Of course, the reverse variant is possible in which the means for locking are at least partially formed as a nut piece, for receiving a shoulder formed as a father piece on the element. Since more material is usually attached to the element to form a nut piece, i. H. is for forming a groove or a concave recess available, is preferably designed as a nut piece receptacle on the element. But it is also conceivable that both are formed on the spring and the element, d. H. there are on the element both a trained as a nut piece receptacle, as well as serving as a fatherpiece part for engaging in a nut piece on the spring element, which nevertheless as a means for locking additionally has a father element. Due to the close proximity of the two components, this results in an S- or Z-shaped contour, which have the necessary for a positive engagement undercuts or groove surfaces.

In order to support the spring element in the swung-in position, it is possible for an abutment shoulder to be formed on the element next to the receptacle or next to a projection, ie the coupling means which engage with the means for latching the spring elements. The Anlageschulter extends substantially horizontally, that is in the laying plane.

In the engaged position, in which the spring element is completely pivoted and is locked relative to the element, the spring element with maximum depth engages in the corresponding groove of the adjacent element. The groove wall of the groove, which is closer to the upper side of the element and which carries the locking edge, is preferably formed in alignment with the contact shoulder in the installed position. The contact shoulder and the top groove wall form the upper limit for the spring element. If a force is introduced from the element carrying the spring element into the contact shoulder and thus into the spring element from above, the force is introduced into the adjacent element via the groove wall of the groove of the adjacent element opposite the locking edge, so that both elements are in the coupling region be pressed down evenly.

In addition, in the groove of the adjacent element, i. H. in the groove, on which also the locking edge is formed and in which engages the spring element, an undercut may be formed. Such an undercut is a special feature, since the spring element for locking in the vertical direction does not have to engage in an undercut. In addition, however, the spring element can engage in this undercut, with the result that by the spring element also a further Verrieglung can be effected in the laying plane. This engaging behind the undercut leads in addition to an improved form-fitting.

It is in the engagement with the undercut of the adjacent element turn to means for positive locking engagement of the spring element, in addition to the corresponding means for positive and / or non-positive locking of the spring element relative to the own spring element. In this double locking of the spring element, a further increased locking security of the spring element is effected. For locking with the adjacent groove, a means for positive and / or non-positive engagement may be formed in the region of the free end of the spring element. It is in particular a projection, which engages behind the undercut during pivoting of the spring element during the Verriegeins. As a result, the spring element is secured against being pulled out in the direction of the mouth of the groove.

The means for locking relative to the own spring element can be embodied, for example, as a bead which is rounded in cross-section and can be pivoted in a receptacle configured as a rounded groove. The bead and the groove may be dimensioned differently in cross section, so that the bead summarizes in the groove similar to a push-button principle. The bead has a different radius or a different degree of curvature on its surface than the receptacle for the bead. As a result, an undercut can be formed in the receptacle. The radii of the receptacle and bead deviate only insignificantly from one another in the area of the contact surfaces. It is essential that the spring element can be easily pivoted into the groove, overcomes a certain resistance during pivoting and then introduced into the groove, there snaps and automatically remains.

It is less important that the recording or the bead in cross-section is completely rounded, rather than the fact that the engagement surfaces are coordinated in the manner described above. Therefore, the means for latching on the spring element can also be embodied as a bead which is substantially rectangular in cross-section and which engages in a substantially rectangular groove as a receptacle. Again, the dimensions of the groove and bead may differ slightly from each other, so that the desired positive and / or adhesion is achieved.

It should also be noted that the penetration depth of the bead into the receptacle can be limited by the fact that the spring element laterally engages the receptacle on the element. As a result, the spring element engages only with limited depth in the respective recording. This not only ensures that the spring element is in the correct position relative to the receptacle, but also that the spring element does not swing too far and that the elastic material is not crushed too much.

Advantageously, the spring element is supported on both sides of the receptacle, namely on the one hand by the abutment shoulder explained above and on the other hand by a arranged on the other side of the receiving abutment surface. Of course, it is also possible within the scope of the invention that the means designed as a bead for latching against the groove bottom of the receptacle, so that there is a further limitation.

The configuration of the receptacle or the means for locking is selected such that the spring element when pivoting into an end position with the element to which the spring element is fixed, is latched by a holding force which is greater than a restoring force of the elastic material. As a result, the spring element can not be automatically pulled back to its original position. It has to be manipulated from the outside, d. H. be actively released from the locking position. This is possible by moving the adjacent elements against the joining direction. This means that the element with the spring element must be raised. The spring element is thereby strongly pressed against the locking edge. At the same time, the restoring force of the elastic material is supported so far that the holding force in the region of the means for locking is no longer sufficient to hold the spring element in the end position. The spring element now begins to slide along the locking edge out of the groove, so that the element with the spring element can be completely lifted and, if necessary, can be relocated again, which is extremely easy to install.

When joining the free end of the spring element is in turn brought into contact with the adjacent element. The spring element comes into contact with a support surface of this element, slides on this support surface and is displaced facing towards the groove of the adjacent element. According to the invention it is provided that the support surface of the adjacent element is concavely curved, while the free end of the spring element in the contact region with the support surface is at least partially convexly curved. The concave and convex curvature are not congruent, but coordinated so that the spring element engages during pivoting substantially backlash in the groove of the adjacent element and grasps behind the locking edge. Preferably, both surfaces are inclined in the inventive arrangement. This has the advantage that the spring element in the initial state can be substantially perpendicular to the laying. This has manufacturing advantages. At the same time, the concavely curved support surface or the support surface, which is inclined at least relative to the laying plane, causes the spring element to pass more easily from the starting position into the end position than to a support surface which extends horizontally. In addition, by means of concave support surfaces or convex contact areas, the force initially necessary for the predetermined breaking of the spring element can be applied very easily, without the laying process being hindered. Any fragments from the predetermined breaking point fall down and can collect in the concave curved support surface, which is virtually formed as a trough, without affecting the locking process or disturb.

In order to simplify the pivoting of the spring element, the spring element has a crimping, in which the elastic material is arranged. An elastic material has a greater elasticity than the spring element, so that it does not break during bending. The opposing walls in the region of the crimping can be at least partially, in particular over the entire surface coated with the elastic material, wherein the coatings are arranged in the unlocked state at a distance from each other and are in the locked state in contact. The mutually contacting coatings may stick together when in contact with each other. As a result, in addition to the positive and / or non-positive locking another cohesive connection can be realized by gluing. The elastic material can therefore be an adhesive.

The covering according to the invention is not necessarily a floor covering. It can also be a wall or ceiling covering. Important in connection with superficially closed coverings is that the locking is not only vertical to the laying level but also in the laying level. For this purpose, a locking edge exhibiting element has a bearing element under the spring element cross-locking bar. The locking strip is suitable to secure the adjacent elements against tensile stress in a laying plane. The additional locking strip primarily absorbs horizontal tensile forces, ie tensile loads in the laying plane. This ensures that no joint gap remains at the top. The entry of liquid and dirt in any gaps is prevented.

The material for the spring element or the proportion of the element from which the spring element is made, may be both a wood material, d. H. it may be wood or a wood fiber material, or a material made of wood as a base material, such as liquid wood. In the spring element or the proportion of the lining, from which the spring element is made, it may also be a composite material. The use of mixed plastics is just as possible as the use of materials based on thermoplastic or thermosetting plastics.

The inventive concept is applicable to all floor systems and wall systems in which a topping on a support, which is in particular a wood-based panel such as an MDF or chipboard is arranged, such as real wood flooring, laminate, support with painted surfaces as Covering, linoleum, cork on support plates, etc. The cover layer may in particular consist of a decorative paper with overlay, which determines the appearance of the elements. At a Flooring may thus be a parquet floor, a finished parquet floor, a real wood floor or a laminate floor. Likewise, elements of solid materials such as wooden planks, wooden elements, molded plastic mold plates, plastics, moldings or gypsum boards are suitable. The inventive idea does not only relate to the connection of identical elements. It is also conceivable to carry out an element as a frame component for frame floors or raised floors. In such an application, one of the elements to be connected is configured as a panel and a second element as a frame component. The panel is placed in the assembly of one or more frame members existing frame structures during assembly and locked with his head and / or sides.

The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the embodiments illustrated in schematic drawings for connecting two elements in the form of panels. Of course, the connections shown are readily transferable to the connection between a frame member and a panel.

Show it:

Figure 1 shows a cross section through the connecting region of two adjacent elements in a still unlocked position;

Figure 2 shows a cross section through the connecting region of two adjacent elements with different positions of a spring element;

FIG. 3 shows a cross section through the connecting region of two adjacent elements in the locking position;

FIG. 4 shows a cross section through the connecting region of two adjacent elements in the locking position in a second embodiment; Figure 5 shows a cross section through the connecting region of two adjacent elements with a fixed tongue and groove connection;

FIG. 6 shows a cross section through the connecting region of two adjacent elements in a further embodiment;

FIG. 7 shows a cross section through the connecting region of two adjacent elements with different positions;

8 shows a cross section through the connection region of two adjacent elements in the locking position in a further embodiment;

9 shows a cross section through the connecting region of a

Elements in a further embodiment;

FIG. 10 shows a cross section through the connecting region of two adjacent elements in the starting position;

Figure 1 1 shows the cross section through the connecting region of two adjacent elements in the locking position;

Figure 12 shows a cross section through the connecting region of two adjacent elements with fixed tongue and groove connection;

FIG. 13 shows a cross section through the connecting region of two adjacent elements in a further embodiment;

14 shows a cross section through the connecting region of two adjacent elements in a further embodiment.

In the following description of the figures, essentially identical components are identified by the same reference symbols in the different exemplary embodiments. FIG. 1 shows a cross section through two elements 1, 2 in the form of panels. The panels are square, with square in this context may mean both rectangular and square. For rectangular panels, there are longer and narrower sides. The longer sides are called the long sides and the shorter sides the head sides. For square panels, this distinction does not matter.

In the illustrated embodiment is the representation of two identically configured panels, which are configured at their opposite sides so that they can be locked and locked with other identically configured panels in the manner shown. The illustrated elements 1, 2 are therefore configured identically, so that the elements 1, 2 can be assembled into a covering, in particular to a floor covering.

Figure 1 shows two adjacent elements 1, 2 before locking. Here, the illustration on the left shows a first element 1 and on the right a second element 2, which is intended to be connected to the first element 1. The first element 1 has a locking strip 3 and the second element 2 has a downwardly open dome channel 4 and a thereto adjacent, downwardly directed end dome 5. The locking bar 3 of the first element 1 faces a head side, which in this embodiment only as page 6 is called, before. The element 2 is arranged relative to the element 1 that when lowering in the direction of arrow P of the dome 5 of the second element 2 engages with a coupling channel 7 of the locking bar 3 and the dome channel 4 of the second element with the dome 8 of the locking bar 3. This area of the elements 1, 2 essentially serves for positional orientation in the horizontal plane, horizontally in the context of the invention corresponding to the laying level V, which coincides with the mutually parallel upper sides 9 and lower sides 10 of the elements 1, 2. An essential part of the profiling according to the invention is a spring element 1 1. The spring element 1 1 is a substantially downwards, ie away from the top 9, directed tongue, which is formed by a rectangular in cross-section formed free space 12 to the core 15 of the element 2. The spring element 1 1 is connected at its upper end 13 to the element 2. It can be seen that on the side facing away from the free space 12 a crimping 14 is formed as a notch. The squish 14 is a the thickness of the spring element 1 1 reducing constriction.

The spring element 1 1 has a means 16 for positive and / or non-positive locking of the spring element 1 first The means 16 for locking in this exemplary embodiment of the same material integral part of the spring element 1 first It is a bead. This bead serves as a father piece, which is intended to intervene in a trained as a mother piece 17 on the right in the image plane 16 element 2. For this to be possible, the spring element 11 must be pivoted in the direction of the panel 1 adjacent to the image plane. This is done by the free end 18 when moving in the direction of the arrow P, d. H. when lowering the right element 2 down on a support surface 19 of the adjacent element 1 abuts.

The support surface 19 is concavely curved. The free end 18 is convexly curved in its contact region 20, with which it comes into contact with the support surface 19. The curvatures are coordinated. As a result, a force in the direction of the arrow F is exerted when lowering, which causes the spring element 1 1 breaks at the upper end 13 in the region of the web 21. The dock is intended for this purpose. It is a breaking point. Nevertheless, the spring element 1 1 is not completely free in its movement. It is held by an elastic material 22. The elastic material 22 is arranged between the upper end 13 on the adjacent element 1 side facing. The elastic Material is arcuately curved in the starting position. This results in the end face of a V-shaped notch 23, which makes it possible to pivot the spring element 1 1 in the illustration of Figure 1 in a clockwise direction. The pivot point of the pivoting movement is approximately in the middle of the elastic material 22, ie approximately in the deepest of the notch 23. The horizontal line drawn there intersects the pivot axis about which the spring element 1 1 is pivotable.

The free end 18 of the spring element 1 1 is displaced during pivoting in the direction of the adjacent element 1. For this purpose, a groove 24 for receiving the spring element 1 1 is provided on the adjacent element. The groove is configured substantially horizontally, has an upper groove flank 25 and a lower groove flank 26. The lower groove flank 26 is slightly inclined, so that the groove 24 widens toward its mouth. The lower groove flank 26 merges into the concave support surface 19. The contact region 20 of the spring element 1 1 thus slides over a transition point 27 between the support surface 19 and the subsequent straight groove flank 26.

Also, the upper groove flank 15 expands at the mouth side of the groove 24. Approximately above the transition point 27 is a locking edge 28, at which the horizontal upper groove flank 25 merges into a chamfer 29 widening the groove mouth. The spring element 1 1 has at a shift in the direction of the arrow P, ie when lowering the element 2 only the possibility, according to the inclination of the support surface 19 slide on this. Figure 2 shows the spring element 1 1 in various intermediate positions before it reaches the end position shown in Figure 3. It can be seen that the means for locking 16 is pivoted into the receptacle 17 during pivoting. The latching means 16 in the starting position does not project beyond the end face 31 of the right-hand element 2 in the image plane. A front side 30 of the spring element 1 1 thus extends perpendicularly to the laying plane in the starting position shown in FIG. In the latching position, as shown in Figure 3, this end face 31 is brought into a horizontal position, that is pivoted by 90 °. During pivoting, the elastic material 22 is deformed. He has a certain restoring force, which acts in the illustration of Figure 3 as a torque counterclockwise to the spring element 1 1. However, the positive and / or non-positive locking between the means for locking 16 and the receptacle 17 causes a holding force. The holding force is greater than the restoring force, so that the spring element 1 1 would remain in the locking position even if it would not be in engagement with the adjacent element 1. Characterized the element 3 is prevented in the Verrastungsposition that it is raised by the restoring force of the elastic material 22 again from the Verrastungsposition, ie opposite to the arrow P (Figure 1) is displaced.

In the locking position, the spring element 1 1 abuts against a stop surface 32, which is formed on the element 2 immediately adjacent to the elastic material 22. This stop surface 32 limits the pivoting movement or the swivel angle.

In addition, FIG. 3 shows that in the latched position, the front side 30 of the spring element 11 abuts against the upper groove flank 25 in the horizontal position. At the same time, the contact region 20 of the spring element in the vicinity of the transition point 27 bears against the lower groove flank 26. The tops 9 of the elements 1, 2 are aligned and held in the position shown. The right in the image plane panel 2 can not be lowered further, as via the means for locking 16 a force which is transmitted in the direction of the arrow P on the upper element 2, in the vicinity of the transition point 27 in the lower groove flank 26 of the adjacent Elements 1 transmits. In addition, the dome bulge 5 of the right in the image plane element 2 with the dome channel 7 of the other element are engaged, so that a backup is carried out in the horizontal direction. The special feature of the positive and / or non-positive locking is that the means for locking 16 is formed with a bead which has a slightly different radius than the receptacle 17. As a result, these two components 1, 2 become and nut piece are formed such that they can not separate from each other alone or under the influence of the restoring force of the elastic material 22 from each other.

Figure 4 shows an embodiment which is very similar to that of Figures 1 to 3. The only difference with respect to the previous embodiment is that a contact shoulder 33 is formed adjacent to the receptacle 17 on the element 2 on which the spring element is arranged. The abutment shoulder 33 and the stop surface 22 limit the receptacle 17 between them. The abutment shoulder 33 is oriented horizontally. At the contact shoulder 33 is the front 30 of the spring element 1 1 at. About the abutment shoulder 33 can be a force acting from above on the right element 2 even better in the spring element 1 1 initiate without the receptacle 17 or the means for locking 16 are stressed too much. In addition, the abutment shoulder 33 as well as the stop surface 32 serves as a limitation for the pivot angle of the spring element 1 first All other components are substantially identical to those of Figures 1 to 3, so that reference is made to the explanation there.

FIG. 5 clarifies that the profile geometry of the left-hand element 1 in the image plane is not only suitable for being locked with an element 2 which is provided with a displaceable spring element 11. Rather, the element 2 may also be in engagement with a stationary spring 34. This type of tongue and groove connection is possible, for example, on two of four sides of a square or rectangular element 1, 2, while on two other sides the connection by means of the pivotable spring element is used. Thus, it is possible that an element 1, 2 each have a fixed spring 34 and a pivotable spring element 1 1 on another side. FIG. 5 also shows that the concave support surface 19 in a tongue and groove connection with a fixed spring 34 is not disturbing and has no effect on the strength of this compound.

FIGS. 6 to 8 show, analogously to the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 3, an embodiment of elements 1, 2 which can be locked together, but in which the means 16 for latching to the spring element 11 is constructed somewhat differently. The same reference numerals have been used as in Figures 1 to 3, since the function of all components is identical, even if they differ in their geometry partially from one another.

The essential difference is that the spring element 1 1 is set back further relative to the end face 31, which is due to the contact shoulder 33, as has been explained in Figure 4. In addition, the locking means 16 designed as a father piece is no longer designed as a cross-sectionally semi-cylindrical bead. The means for locking 16 has rather a rectangular contour with rounded corners. The receptacle 17 is configured opposite in the broadest sense. It turns out, however, that in the latching position (FIG. 8), the latching means 16 does not protrude to the groove base 35 of the receptacle 17. The force acting in the direction of the arrow F1 element 2 force is therefore not transmitted via the means for locking 16 in the adjacent element 1, but on the contact shoulder 33 and the end face 31 of the spring element 1 first

In addition, in the embodiment of Figures 6 to 8 can be seen that the groove 24 is designed slightly different. The lower groove flank 25 and the concave support surface 19 define a horizontal latching surface 36, on which a rear side 37 of the spring element 1 1 rests in the engaged position. Thereby, the sum of the horizontal support surfaces between the upper and lower boundary of the groove 24 is increased. Incidentally, the pivoting of the spring element 1 1 takes place in the same manner as shown in Figure 2. With regard to the explanation of Figure 7 reference is therefore made to the explanation of Figure 2 reference. A further variant of interconnectable elements are shown in FIGS. 9 to 11. FIG. 9 shows the element 1 with the spring element 11. The spring element 1 1 is configured substantially identical to the embodiment of Figures 6 to 8. The difference is that the spring element 1 1 at its free end 18 has a projection 38. The projection 38 is configured in the shape of a hook and protrudes on the front side 30 of the spring element 11. The front side 30 is to a certain extent offset from the latching means 16 arranged at the upper end 13 and the projection 38. The locking means 16 is formed as in the previous embodiment as a substantially rectangular bead. The protrusion 38 rises from the front 30 on its side facing the means for locking 16 side perpendicular to the front 30. At the bottom of the spring element 1 1 out of the projection 38 falls from a wedge shape.

Another difference is that the spring element 1 1 is not oriented vertically in the previous embodiments, but is at an angle to the vertical. That is, the free end 18 is set back from the end face 31 with respect to the upper end 13, as shown in the starting position according to FIG. Correspondingly, the rectangularly formed free space 12 which runs parallel to the rear side 37 is also arranged at an angle to the vertical.

FIG. 10 shows the element 2 of FIG. 9 shortly before being joined to the matching element 1. It can be seen that the groove 24 is formed slightly differently in the adjacent element 1 than in the previous variants. In the upper groove flank 25 there is an undercut 39. The undercut is configured triangular, corresponding to the contour of the projection 38. In addition, it can be seen that the lower groove flank 26 is slightly concave rounded and in turn limits a horizontal latching surface 36, to which a transition point 27 connects where the concave support surface 19 begins. On the support surface 19, the lower end 18 of the spring element is supported during pivoting.

Figure 1 1 shows the locking position. It can be seen that the spring element 1 1 in the region of its top is now not only in the element 2, but also with the element 1 in a manner in communication, so that an additional train protection in laying plane V is created. This is achieved in that the projection 38 engages in the undercut 39 and at the same time engages the means for locking 16 in the receptacle 17 of the other element 2. The spring element 1 1 thereby causes not only a catch in the vertical direction but also in addition in the horizontal direction d. H. in the laying level.

Figure 12 shows that even such a profiled element 1 can be used with a fixed tongue and groove connection. The spring 34 is exemplified as a fixed spring, which virtually replaces the movable spring element. Neither the undercut 39, nor the concave support surface 19 are disturbing. It can still be realized a fixed tongue and groove connection in a conventional design.

The embodiment of Figure 13 shows two elements 1, 2 in the locking position. The spring element 1 1 is in turn held on the right element 2 via an elastic material 22. It can be seen, however, that the means for locking 16 on the spring element 1 1 in this case is not a protruding bead, but are formed as a triangular-shaped groove in cross section, whereas on the element 1, a projection 40 is formed, which engages in the matching groove. It is the reverse configuration to the previous embodiments. The father piece is now located on the element 2 while the associated nut piece is formed on the spring element 1 1. At the same time, there is a contact shoulder 33 on the element 2, which is arranged at a different height level, ie higher in the vertical direction above the projection 40. A corresponding support bar 41 serves as a counter surface for the abutment shoulder 33. In this area, the adjacent elements 1, 2 are aligned in height to each other and supported against each other. A Zugsicherung in the direction of the laying plane is again via a locking bar 3 on the left in the image plane element 1 and a corresponding Kuppelwulst 5 on the other element. 2

The embodiment of Figure 14 differs from that of Figure 13 in that the means for locking 16 on the spring element 1 1 are formed both as a father piece and as a nut piece. This results in a zigzag-shaped toothing between the latching means 16 and corresponding counterparts, ie receptacles 17 and projections 40 on the element 2. Another difference is that the means for latching 16 and the projection 40 and the receptacle 17 are arranged in the engagement position to the end face 31 of the right-hand element 2 in the image plane. This results in that the right in the image plane element 2 is not displaced by the means for locking 16 in height. In addition, the free end within the groove 24 is supported on an upper groove flank 25, wherein the locking edge 28 is disposed very close to the means 16 for locking. This results in a very short way to transfer power from the right element 2 to the left in the image plane element. 1 This has the advantage that a few bending moments are introduced into the spring element 1 1, so that the connection is very stable.

Reference numerals:

1 - element

2 - element

3- locking bar

4 - dome channel

5- dome bulge

6 - page

7 - dome channel

8 - dome bulge

9- top

10- underside

11 - spring element

12 - free space

13- upper end

14 - crimping

15-core

16 - Means for latching

17- recording

18 - free end

19- support surface

20- contact area

21 - footbridge

22 - elastic material

23- notch

24 - groove

25- upper groove flank

26 - lower groove flank

27 - transition point

28 - locking edge

29- chamfer

30- front 1 - front side

2 - stop surface 3 - contact shoulder 4 - spring

5 - groove bottom

36 - locking surface

37 - back side

38 - lead

39 - H ^{'interschneidung}

40 - lead

41 - support rail

P - arrow

F - force

F1 - power

Claims

claims

1. covering made of mechanically interconnectable elements with the following features: a. The elements (1,2) have at their sides to be joined together (6, 31) has a corresponding profiling, via which adjacent elements (1,2) can be locked together during assembly; b. The locking is effected by at least one spring element (11), which is articulated on one of the elements (2) and which in the joining movement behind a locking edge (28) of a groove (24) of the adjacent element (1) is pivotable; c. The spring element (11) is an integral part of the element (2) before the joining movement, wherein the one-piece connection between the spring element (11) and the element (2) is configured as a predetermined breaking point, which is provided during pivoting of the spring element (11). to break; d. The spring element (11) is additionally connected in some regions via an elastic material (22) to the element (2), characterized e. in that on the spring element (11) there are arranged means (16) for the positive and / or non-positive locking of the spring element (11) in its end position, wherein the latching takes place with respect to the element (2) to which the spring element (11) is fastened ,

2. Covering according to claim 1, characterized in that the means for latching (16) are at least partially of uniform material integral part of the spring element (11).

3. Covering according to claim 1, characterized in that the means for latching (16) with the spring element (11) are connected.

4. Covering according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the means for latching (16) are at least partially formed as a male piece, for engaging in a nut piece formed as a receptacle (17) on the element (2).

5. Covering according to claim 1 to 4, characterized in that the means for latching (16) are at least partially formed as a nut piece, for receiving a projection formed as a fatherpiece (40) on the element (2).

6. Covering according to one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that in addition to the receptacle (17) a contact shoulder (32) on this element (2) is formed, wherein the spring element (11) in the locked state on the contact shoulder (32) is supported.

7. Covering according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that in the groove (24) of the adjacent element (1), in which the spring element (11) engages an undercut (39) is formed, with which the spring element (11 ) is engaged in the locking position.

8. covering according to claim 7, characterized in that in the region of the free end (18) of the spring element (11), a projection (38) is formed, which during pivoting of the spring element (11) during the Verriegeins behind the undercut (39) sums , so that the spring element (11) is secured against being pulled out towards the mouth of the groove (24).

9. covering according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the means (16) for locking as a rounded cross-section bead is executed, which is in a trained as a rounded groove receptacle (17) can be pivoted.

10. Covering according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the means (16) is designed for locking as a cross-sectionally substantially rectangular bead, which engages in a substantially rectangular groove formed as a receptacle (17).

11. Covering according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the spring element (11) when pivoting in an end position with the element (2) on which the spring element (11) is fixed, is latched by means of a holding force, the larger is as a restoring force of the elastic material (22), so that the spring element (11) can not automatically return to its original position.

12. Covering according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that a free end (18) of the spring element (11) when joining adjacent elements (1, 2) on a support surface (19) of the adjacent element (1) slides, which is concavely curved, while the free end (18) in its contact region (20) with the support surface (19) is at least partially convexly curved.