WO2022269402A1

WO2022269402A1 - Decorative panel

Info

Publication number: WO2022269402A1
Application number: PCT/IB2022/055376
Authority: WO
Inventors: Bryan ROLLIER; Hannes MEERSCHMAN
Original assignee: Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl
Priority date: 2021-06-23
Filing date: 2022-06-09
Publication date: 2022-12-29

Abstract

Decorative panel (1) with a thermoplastic substrate (16) or with a substrate that comprises one or more layers that expand under the influence of temperature, with a decorative layer (18) on one side and with mechanical coupling parts (6, 7) on a first pair of opposite edges (2, 3). The panel comprises, on this pair of edges, a first, second, third and fourth sealing face (11, 12, 13, 14), all substantially perpendicular to the panel. The third sealing face (13) is under the first sealing face (11); and the fourth sealing face (14) is under the second sealing face (12). On coupling two such panels, the first and the second sealing faces abut against each other and the third and fourth sealing faces abut against each other.

Description

Decorative panel

The invention relates to a decorative panel with a substrate made of a thermoplastic polymer or with a substrate that comprises one or more layers that expand under the influence of temperature. The decorative panel comprises coupling parts with locking systems so that the panels can be coupled together mechanically, for example to form a floating floor covering. WO201 1/077311 A2 describes panels for forming a floor covering. The panel comprises, on at least two opposite edges, coupling parts of the type that allows two such panels to be coupled together mechanically; wherein these coupling parts form a first locking system that provides locking in the plane of the panels and perpendicular to the aforementioned edges, and also form a second locking system that provides locking transverse to the plane of the panels. The panels comprise a substrate that comprises flexible polyvinyl chloride.

Panels with a substrate made of a thermoplastic polymer have the drawback that they may be liable to expansion and contraction with temperature change. With coverings that consist of such panels, this may in certain cases lead to deformation in the covering, so that the covering is no longer visually attractive.

The aim of the invention is to offer panels wherein adverse consequences in the covering through thermal expansion and contraction of the panels are avoided.

The invention relates to a decorative panel, preferably wherein the panel comprises a decorative layer on only one of its two sides, wherein the panel comprises a substrate and a top layer, wherein the top layer comprises the decorative layer and optionally a wear layer, wherein the substrate comprises one or more thermoplastic layers or wherein the substrate is a thermoplastic substrate or wherein the substrate comprises one or more layers that expand under the influence of temperature; wherein the panel comprises a first pair of opposite edges, namely a first edge and a second edge, wherein the first edge comprises a male coupling part and the second edge comprises a female coupling part so that the first edge of the panel can be coupled to the second edge of another such panel; wherein these coupling parts form a first locking system that provides locking in the plane of the panels and perpendicular to the coupled edges, and also form a second locking system that provides locking transverse to the plane of the panels; wherein the first edge comprises a first sealing face in the upper half of the panel, substantially perpendicular to (and preferably perpendicular to) the plane of the panel and/or with an angle less than 10° - and preferably less than 7° and more preferably less than 5° - relative to the plane perpendicular to the plane of the panel and parallel to the first edge; wherein the second edge comprises a second sealing face in the upper half of the panel, substantially perpendicular to (and preferably perpendicular to) the plane of the panel and/or with an angle less than 10° - and preferably less than 7° and more preferably less than 5° - relative to the plane perpendicular to the plane of the panel and parallel to the second edge; wherein in the coupled state of the first edge of the panel on the second edge of another such panel, the first sealing face of the panel and the second sealing face of the other such panel abut against each other, preferably wherein the first sealing face and the second sealing face come into contact or wherein the distance between the first sealing face and the second sealing face measured parallel to the plane of the panel and perpendicular to the coupled edges is less than 0.07 mm, more preferably is less than 0.05 mm. The decorative panel is characterized in that the first edge located closer to the underside of the panel than the first sealing face, comprises a third sealing face, substantially perpendicular to (and preferably perpendicular to) the plane of the panel and/or with an angle less than 10° - and preferably less than 7° and more preferably less than 5° - relative to the plane perpendicular to the plane of the panel and parallel to the first edge; in that the second edge located closer to the underside of the panel than the second sealing face comprises a fourth sealing face, substantially perpendicular to (and preferably perpendicular to) the plane of the panel and/or with an angle less than 10° - and preferably less than 7° and more preferably less than 5° - relative to the plane perpendicular to the plane of the panel and parallel to the first edge; wherein in the coupled state of the first edge of the panel on the second edge of another such panel, the third sealing face of the panel and the fourth sealing face of the other such panel abut against each other, preferably wherein the third sealing face and the fourth sealing face come into contact or wherein the distance between the third sealing face and the fourth sealing face measured parallel to the plane of the panel and perpendicular to the coupled edges is less than 0.07 mm, more preferably is less than 0.05 mm.

Tests with these panels have shown that visually detrimental deformations in coverings with these panels during temperature change are avoided. Upsetting of the edges of the panels no longer occurs when the temperature rises. It is suspected that addition of the third and the fourth sealing face, and their contact or their very close location ensures an altered balance of forces when the installed panels expand at higher temperature. This altered balance of forces ensures better distribution of the expansion, so that upset of the edges of the panels no longer occurs. The decorative panels according to the invention thus provide a covering with better dimensional stability with respect to changes in temperature in the space where the covering is installed.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the first sealing face, the second sealing face, the third sealing face and the fourth sealing face are configured so that in the cross-section of the panel perpendicular to the plane of the panel and perpendicular to the first pair of opposite edges, the length of the contact when there is contact between the first sealing face and the second sealing face is less than the length of the contact when there is contact between the third sealing face and the fourth sealing face.

These embodiments can be seen to offer coverings with very good dimensional stability.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the first sealing face, the second sealing face, the third sealing face and the fourth sealing face are configured so that in the cross-section of the panel perpendicular to the plane of the panel and perpendicular to the first pair of opposite edges, the length of the contact when there is contact between the first sealing face and the second sealing face is greater than the length of the contact when there is contact between the third sealing face and the fourth sealing face. These embodiments can be seen to offer coverings with very good dimensional stability.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the difference between the first length and the second length relative to the average of the first length and the second length is less than 35%, preferably less than 20% and more preferably less than 15%, wherein the first length is the length of the contact when there is contact between the first sealing face and the second sealing face; and wherein the second length is the length of the contact when there is contact between the third sealing face and the fourth sealing face. This difference may be both positive and negative; the relative difference in question is the absolute value of this difference.

These embodiments can be seen to offer coverings with even better dimensional stability.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the third sealing face is located in the lower half of the thickness of the panel; and in that the fourth sealing face is located in the lower half of the thickness of the panel. These embodiments can be seen to offer coverings with very good dimensional stability.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the first sealing face and the second sealing face are formed at least partly in the substrate. More preferably, the first sealing face and the second sealing face are each formed in the substrate for at least 75 percent of their surface.

Since the substrate is thermoplastic, this embodiment compensates for the expansion forces where they arise.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the male coupling part is made on the first edge substantially in the form of a tongue, and the female coupling part is made on the second edge substantially in the form of a groove; wherein the groove is delimited by an upper lip and a lower lip. Preferably the lower lip projects farther in the distal direction than the upper lip. The lower lip - preferably in the optional part of the lower lip that projects farther distally than the upper lip - comprises a locking element in the form of an upwards directed locking element, wherein this upwards directed locking element together with a recess on the underside of the tongue, in the coupled state of the panel with its first edge on the second edge of another such panel, provides locking in the plane of the panels and perpendicular to the coupled edges. Preferably the panel can be coupled with its first edge on the second edge of another such panel by means of a turning motion of the panel relative to the second edge of the other such panel; and/or by means of a sliding motion of the panel parallel to the other such panel, giving rise to a snap connection.

Such embodiments allow easy installation of the panels and also offer good dimensional stability of a covering formed with these panels.

More preferably, the fourth sealing face is located at the distal end of the lower lip of the second edge.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the coupling parts on the first pair of edges are configured in such a way that the panel can be coupled on its first edge by means of a downward motion of the panel relative to another such panel on the second edge of the other such panel, wherein the first locking system of the first pair of opposite edges is formed at least from an upwards directed lower hook-shaped portion that is present on the second edge, and a downwards directed upper hook-shaped portion that is present on the first edge, wherein the lower hook-shaped portion consists of a lip with an upwards directed locking element, wherein proximally of the upwards directed locking element, the female coupling part is formed in the form of a recess, whereas the downwards directed upper hook-shaped portion consists of a lip with a downwards directed locking element; wherein this downwards directed locking element forms the male coupling part; wherein during the downward motion, the downwards directed locking element on the first edge of the panel hooks behind the upwards directed locking element on the second edge of the rear such panel.

Such embodiments allow easy installation of the panels and also offer good dimensional stability of a covering formed with these panels. More preferably, the fourth sealing face is located at the distal end of the upwards directed locking element.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that in the coupled state of the panel on its first edge to the second edge of another such panel, the second locking system is formed at least by a locking element at the distal end of the downwards directed locking element of the panel and an opposite locking element on the opposite edge of the other such panel, wherein the locking elements are formed by surfaces of the substrate.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that in the coupled state of the panel on its first edge to the second edge of another such panel, the second locking system is formed at least by a locking element at the distal end of the downwards directed locking element of the panel and an opposite locking element on the opposite edge of the second edge of the other such panel, wherein one of the locking elements - either the locking element on the first edge, or the locking element on the second edge - is formed by an insert and the other locking element by a surface or surfaces of the substrate, wherein the insert, during the downward motion, at least partly provides the second locking system in the coupled state through displacement, bending or deformation of the insert or of a part thereof.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that in the coupled state of the panel on its first edge to the second edge of another such panel, there is no locking in the direction perpendicular to the coupled panels at the distal end of the downwards directed locking element.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the angle between on the one hand the proximal end - considered in the upwards direction - of the upwards directed locking element and on the other hand the direction in the plane of the panel directed proximally of the second edge is less than 90°; and in that the angle between on the one hand the proximal end - considered in the downward direction - of the downwards directed locking element and on the other hand the direction in the plane of the panel directed proximally of the first edge is less than 90°; so that in the coupled state of the panel on its first edge to the second edge of another such panel, the second locking system is formed at least by contact between the proximal end of the downwards directed locking element of the first edge and the proximal end of the upwards directed locking element of the other such panel.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the angle between on the one hand the proximal end - considered in the upwards direction - of the upwards directed locking element and on the other hand the direction in the plane of the panel directed proximally of the second edge is equal to 90° or is greater than 90°; and/or in that the angle between on the one hand the proximal end - considered in the downward direction - of the downwards directed locking element and on the other hand the direction in the plane of the panel directed proximally of the first edge is equal to 90° or is greater than 90°.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that in the coupled state of the panel on its first edge to the second edge of another such panel, the second locking system is formed at least by a locking element at the distal end of the lip and/or of the upwards directed locking element of the second edge of the other such panel and a locking element on the opposite first edge of the panel interacting therewith, more preferably wherein one of these locking elements is formed by an undercut and the other by a projection.

More preferably, the third sealing face is located under the locking element of the first edge; and the fourth sealing face is located under the locking element at the distal end of the lip and/or of the upwards directed locking element of the second edge.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that in the coupled state of the panel on its first edge to the second edge of another such panel, no locking occurs in the direction perpendicular to the thus coupled panels at the distal end of the second edge of the other such panel. This embodiment has the advantage that the third sealing face and the fourth sealing face can be made larger, so that better dimensional stability of a covering formed by these panels is obtained.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the third sealing face is made at least partly and preferably completely in the substrate; and in that the fourth sealing face is made at least partly and preferably completely in the substrate. Such embodiments have the advantage that expansion forces are compensated where they arise, in particular in the substrate.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the panel is rectangular, either oblong or square.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the panel is rectangular and elongated; and in that the first pair of opposite edges form the short edges of the panel.

The distance between the opposite short edges of a rectangular panel is greater than the distance between the opposite long edges of a rectangular panel. It was found that it is especially important to take action to improve the dimensional stability in the longitudinal direction of the panel.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that in the coupled state of the first edge of the panel on the second edge of another such panel, the third sealing face of the panel and the fourth sealing face of the other such panel come into contact with each other; and in that the third sealing face and the fourth sealing face are configured so that in the cross-section of the panel perpendicular to the plane of the panel and perpendicular to the first pair of opposite edges, the length of the contact between the third sealing face and the fourth sealing face is at least 10%, more preferably at least 15%, more preferably is at least 15%, more preferably is at least 20%, of the thickness of the panel. Such embodiments have the advantage that visually detrimental deformations in coverings with these panels on temperature change are avoided even better.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the panel comprises a second pair of opposite edges, namely a third edge and a fourth edge, wherein the third edge comprises a male coupling part and the fourth edge comprises a female coupling part so that the third edge of the panel can be coupled to the fourth edge of another such panel; wherein these coupling parts form a first locking system that provides locking in the plane of the panels and perpendicular to the coupled edges, and also form a second locking system that provides locking transverse to the plane of the panels; wherein the third edge comprises a first sealing face in the upper half of the panel, substantially perpendicular to (and preferably perpendicular to) the plane of the panel and/or with an angle less than 10° - and preferably less than 7° and more preferably less than 5° - relative to the plane perpendicular to the plane of the panel and parallel to the third edge; wherein the fourth edge comprises a second sealing face in the upper half of the panel, substantially perpendicular to (and preferably perpendicular to) the plane of the panel and/or with an angle less than 10° - and preferably less than 7° and more preferably less than 5° - relative to the plane perpendicular to the plane of the panel and parallel to the fourth edge; wherein in the coupled state of the third edge of the panel on the fourth edge of another such panel, the first sealing face of the third edge and the second sealing face of the fourth edge abut against each other, preferably wherein these sealing faces come into contact or wherein the distance measured parallel to the plane of the panel and perpendicular to the coupled edges is less than 0.07 mm, more preferably is less than 0.05 mm; wherein the third edge located closer to the underside of the panel than the first sealing face of the third edge comprises a third sealing face, substantially perpendicular to (and preferably perpendicular to) the plane of the panel and/or with an angle less than 10° - and preferably less than 7° and more preferably less than 5° - relative to the plane perpendicular to the plane of the panel and parallel to the third edge; wherein the fourth edge located closer to the underside of the panel than the second sealing face of the fourth edge comprises a fourth sealing face, substantially perpendicular to (and preferably perpendicular to) the plane of the panel and/or with an angle less than 10° - and preferably less than 7° and more preferably less than 5° - relative to the plane perpendicular to the plane of the panel and parallel to the fourth edge; wherein in the coupled state of the third edge of the panel on the fourth edge of another such panel, the third sealing face of the third edge of the panel and the fourth sealing face of the fourth edge of the other such panel abut against each other, preferably wherein these sealing faces come into contact or wherein the distance measured parallel to the plane of the panel and perpendicular to the coupled edges is less than 0.07 mm, more preferably is less than 0.05 mm.

Such embodiments of the invention offer even better dimensional stability of a covering formed with such panels. This is especially the case with square panels, or rectangular and elongated panels wherein the ratio of the length to the width of the panel is rather limited, especially when the width of the panel is rather large.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the first sealing face of the third edge and the second sealing face of the fourth edge are formed at least partly in the substrate.

Since the substrate is thermoplastic, such an embodiment is advantageous, because the thermal expansion forces are compensated where they arise.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the third sealing face of the third edge is located in the lower half of the thickness of the panel; and in that the fourth sealing face of the fourth edge is located in the lower half of the thickness of the panel. These embodiments can be seen to offer coverings with very good dimensional stability.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the first sealing face of the third edge and the third sealing face of the third edge and the second sealing face of the fourth edge and the fourth sealing face of the fourth edge are configured so that in the cross-section of the panel perpendicular to the plane of the panel and perpendicular to the second pair of opposite edges, the length of the contact when there is contact between the first sealing face of the third edge and the second sealing face of the fourth edge is less than the length of the contact when there is contact between the third sealing face of the third edge and the fourth sealing face of the fourth edge.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the first sealing face of the third edge and the third sealing face of the third edge and the second sealing face of the fourth edge and the fourth sealing face of the fourth edge are configured so that in the cross-section of the panel perpendicular to the plane of the panel and perpendicular to the second pair of opposite edges, the length of the contact when there is contact between the first sealing face of the third edge and the second sealing face of the fourth edge is greater than the length of the contact when there is contact between the third sealing face of the third edge and the fourth sealing face of the fourth edge.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the difference between the third length and the fourth length relative to the average of the third length and the fourth length is less than 35%, preferably less than 20% and more preferably less than 15%, wherein the third length is the length of the contact when there is contact between the first sealing face of the third edge and the second sealing face of the fourth edge; and wherein the fourth length is the length of the contact when there is contact between the third sealing face of the third edge and the fourth sealing face of the fourth edge. This difference may be both positive and negative; the relative difference in question is the absolute value of this difference.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the male coupling part on the third edge is configured substantially in the form of a tongue; and in that the female coupling part on the fourth edge is configured substantially in the form of a groove; wherein the groove on the fourth edge is delimited by an upper lip and a lower lip. More preferably the lower lip projects farther in the distal direction than the upper lip. The lower lip comprises - preferably in the optional part of the lower lip that projects farther distally than the upper lip - a locking element in the form of an upwards directed locking element, wherein this upwards directed locking element together with a recess on the underside of the tongue on the third edge in the coupled state of the panel with its third edge against the fourth edge of another such panel provides locking in the plane of the panels and perpendicular to the coupled edges. Preferably the panel can be coupled with its third edge against the fourth edge of another such panel by means of a turning motion of the panel relative to the fourth edge of the other such panel; and/or by means of a sliding motion of the panel parallel to the other such panel, giving rise to a snap connection.

More preferably, the fourth sealing face of the fourth edge is located at the distal end of the lower lip of the fourth edge.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the third sealing face of the third edge is made at least partly and preferably completely in the substrate; and in that the fourth sealing face of the fourth edge is made at least partly and preferably completely in the substrate. Such embodiments have the advantage that expansion forces are compensated where they arise, in particular in the substrate.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the panel comprises a second pair of opposite edges, namely a third edge and a fourth edge, wherein the third edge comprises a male coupling part and the fourth edge comprises a female coupling part so that the third edge of the panel can be coupled to the fourth edge of another such panel; wherein these coupling parts form a first locking system that provides locking in the plane of the panels and perpendicular to the coupled edges, and also form a second locking system that provides locking transverse to the plane of the panels; wherein the male coupling part on the third edge is configured substantially in the form of a tongue, wherein the female coupling part on the fourth edge is configured substantially in the form of a groove; wherein the groove on the fourth edge is delimited by an upper lip and a lower lip. More preferably the lower lip projects farther in the distal direction than the upper lip. The lower lip - preferably in the optional part of the lower lip that projects farther distally than the upper lip - comprises a locking element in the form of an upwards directed locking element, wherein this upwards directed locking element together with a recess on the underside of the tongue on the third edge, in the coupled state of the panel with its third edge against the fourth edge of another such panel, provides locking in the plane of the panels and perpendicular to the coupled edges; wherein in the coupled state of the panel with its third edge against the fourth edge of another such panel, at the distal end of the lower lip of the fourth edge of the other such panel in the direction perpendicular to the coupled edges there is at least a distance of 0.1 mm - and preferably of at least 0.2 mm, more preferably of at least 0.3 mm - from the third edge of the panel. Preferably the panel can be coupled with its third edge against the fourth edge of another such panel by means of a turning motion of the panel relative to the fourth edge of the other such panel; and/or by means of a sliding motion of the panel parallel to the other such panel, giving rise to a snap connection.

This embodiment is especially advantageous when the second pair of edges is provided on the long edges of an elongated rectangular panel. The distance between the third edge and the fourth edge of such a panel is relatively speaking not large, so that dimensional instability does not then occur on this second pair of opposite edges. The coupling parts on this second pair of opposite edges are easier to produce in accordance with this embodiment, since production tolerances are less critical.

More preferably, the third edge comprises, in the upper half of the panel, a first sealing face, substantially perpendicular to (and preferably perpendicular to) the plane of the panel and/or with an angle less than 10° - and preferably less than 7° and more preferably less than 5° - relative to the plane perpendicular to the plane of the panel and parallel to the third edge; and the fourth edge comprises, in the upper half of the panel, a second sealing face, substantially perpendicular to (and preferably perpendicular to) the plane of the panel and/or with an angle less than 10° - and preferably less than 7° and more preferably less than 5° - relative to the plane perpendicular to the plane of the panel and parallel to the fourth edge. In the coupled state of the third edge of the panel on the fourth edge of another such panel, the first sealing face of the third edge and the second sealing face of the fourth edge abut against each other, preferably wherein these sealing faces come into contact or wherein the distance measured parallel to the plane of the panel and perpendicular to the coupled edges is less than 0.07 mm, more preferably is less than 0.05 mm.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the panel is provided on its first edge and on its second edge with a lower edge region, such as a chamfer or some other bevelling.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the panel comprises a second pair of opposite edges, namely a third edge and a fourth edge, wherein the panel is provided on its third edge and on its fourth edge with a lower edge region, such as a chamfer or some other bevelling.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the substrate comprises one or more layers that comprise a thermoplastic matrix, wherein the thermoplastic matrix is preferably formed from one of the following materials: polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), thermoplastic polyester (for example polyethylene terephthalate), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or a thermoplastic polyamide.

More preferably, one or more of the one or more layers of the substrate comprises filler, preferably inorganic filler such as lime, chalk, talc, stone particles or clay; or organic filler such as cellulose-based material for example such as wood fibres, wood dust or wood particles.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the substrate comprises a layer that comprises a thermoplastic matrix, wherein the thermoplastic matrix comprises a foamed thermoplastic matrix.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the substrate comprises at least one layer, wherein the thermoplastic matrix contains plasticizer, preferably plasticizer in an amount greater than 15 phr ("parts per hundred resin"); more preferably in an amount greater than 20 phr. A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the substrate comprises at least one layer, wherein the thermoplastic matrix contains less than 5 phr plasticizer, and preferably wherein the thermoplastic matrix does not contain plasticizer.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the substrate comprises a first layer with a thermoplastic matrix and comprises a second layer with a thermoplastic matrix, wherein the thermoplastic matrix of the second layer expressed in phr ("parts per hundred resin") contains more plasticizer than the thermoplastic matrix of the first layer, wherein the second layer is located closer to the surface of the panel than the first layer. More preferably the first layer comes into contact with the top layer, and more preferably with the decorative layer.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the decorative layer comprises a printed pattern, preferably wherein the pattern is printed on a thermoplastic film - more preferably on a polyvinyl chloride film - or on the substrate or on a layer of paper impregnated with thermosetting resin.

More preferably, the printed pattern forms an imitation of wood, of a ceramic tile or of a tile made of natural stone material.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the top layer comprises a wear layer, preferably wherein the wear layer comprises a thermoplastic film (preferably of polyvinyl chloride) optionally with one or more lacquer layers, or wherein the wear layer comprises a layer of paper impregnated with a thermosetting resin - preferably melamine - and optionally comprises particles that increase the wear resistance.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the surface of the panel comprises a relief structure, preferably in register with the decor. A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the underside of the panel is formed by the substrate.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the panel comprises, on its underside, a damping layer fastened on the substrate, preferably wherein the damping layer is or comprises a layer of cork, or wherein the damping layer is or comprises a polymer layer, more preferably a layer of crosslinked polyethylene (XPE).

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the panel is less than 5 mm thick.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the panel comprises a second pair of opposite edges, namely a third edge and a fourth edge; wherein the third edge comprises a male coupling part and the fourth edge comprises a female coupling part so that the third edge of the panel can be coupled to the fourth edge of another such panel; wherein these coupling parts form a first locking system that provides locking in the plane of the panels and perpendicular to the coupled edges, and also form a second locking system that provides locking transverse to the plane of the panels; wherein the coupling parts on the first pair of opposite edges and on the second pair of opposite edges are configured in such a way that a plurality of these decorative panels can be installed by means of the "fold down" method.

Panels according to this embodiment can be installed easily.

Preferably the decorative panel according to the invention comprises a wear layer only on one side.

The decorative panel according to any embodiment of the invention may be for example a floor panel, a wall panel or a ceiling panel. For better illustration of the features of the invention, some preferred embodiments are described hereunder, as examples without any limiting character, referring to the appended drawings, in which: Fig. 1 illustrates an example of a decorative panel according to the invention;

Fig. 2 illustrates, in the cross-section along II - II in Fig. 1, the first pair of opposite edges of an example of a panel according to Fig. 1;

Fig. 3 shows the panel from Fig. 2 in the coupled state on its first pair of opposite edges; Fig. 4 shows another example of a decorative panel according to the invention in the same view as Fig. 2;

Fig. 5 shows the panel from Fig. 4 in the coupled state on its first pair of opposite edges;

Fig. 6 shows another example of a decorative panel according to the invention in the same view as Fig. 2;

Fig. 7 shows the panel from Fig. 6 in the coupled state on its first pair of opposite edges;

Fig. 8 shows another example of a decorative panel according to the invention in the same view as Fig. 2; Fig. 9 shows the panel from Fig. 8 in the coupled state on its first pair of opposite edges;

Fig. 10 shows another example of a decorative panel according to the invention in the same view as Fig. 2;

Fig. 11 shows the panel from Fig. 10 in the coupled state on its first pair of opposite edges;

Fig. 12 shows another example of a decorative panel according to the invention in the same view as Fig. 2;

Fig. 13 shows the panel from Fig. 12 in the coupled state on its first pair of opposite edges; Fig. 14 shows another example of a decorative panel according to the invention in the same view as Fig. 2; Fig. 15 shows the panel from Fig. 14 in the coupled state on its first pair of opposite edges;

Fig. 16 shows a cross-section along XVI - XVI in Fig. 1 of a panel according to the invention;

Fig. 17 shows the panel from Fig. 16 in the coupled state on its second pair of opposite edges;

Fig. 18 shows, in a cross-section identical to Fig. 16, another example of the second pair of opposite edges of a decorative panel according to one embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 19 shows the panel from Fig. 18 in the coupled state on its second pair of opposite edges;

Fig. 20 illustrates the principle of "fold down" installation with which embodiments of the invention can be installed;

Fig. 21 shows a detail according to F21 in Fig. 20;

Figs. 22, 23 and 24 show, in the coupled state, alternative embodiments for the embodiment shown in the coupled state in Fig. 3;

Fig. 25 shows, in the coupled state, an alternative embodiment for the embodiment shown in the coupled state in Fig. 7;

Fig. 26 shows, in the coupled state, an alternative embodiment for the embodiments shown in the coupled state in Figs. 9, 11, 13 and 15;

Figs. 27 and 28 show, in the coupled state, embodiments of the invention in the same view as Fig. 3; and

Fig. 29 shows, in the coupled state, an embodiment of the invention in the same view as Fig. 3.

Fig. 1 shows an example of a decorative panel according to the invention. Fig. 2 shows this panel in the cross-section along II - II in Fig. 1. The decorative panel (1) is elongated and rectangular. The panel (1) comprises a first pair of opposite edges (2, 3), which form the short edges of the panel. The panel also comprises a second pair of opposite edges (4, 5), which form the long edges of the panel. The panel from Figs. 1 and 2 comprises a substrate (16) and a top layer (17). The top layer (17) comprises a decorative layer (18) and a transparent wear layer (19). The panel (1) comprises a decorative layer (18) on only one of its two sides - more specifically on the upper side. The substrate (16) comprises one or more thermoplastic layers or the substrate is a thermoplastic substrate (16). The panel has for example a thickness (T) of 4.5 mm.

The panel (1) comprises a first pair of opposite edges (2, 3), namely a first edge (2) and a second edge (3). The first edge (2) comprises a male coupling part (6) and the second edge (3) comprises a female coupling part (7) so that the first edge of the panel can be coupled to the second edge of another such panel; wherein these coupling parts (6, 7) form a first locking system that provides locking in the plane of the panels (1) and perpendicular to the coupled edges, and also form a second locking system that provides locking transverse to the plane of the panels (1). Fig. 3 shows the panel from Figs. 1 and 2 in the coupled state on its first pair of opposite edges (2, 3).

The male coupling part (6) on the first edge (2) is configured substantially in the form of a tongue (21). The female coupling part (7) on the second edge (3) is configured substantially in the form of a groove (22). The groove (22) is delimited by an upper lip (23) and a lower lip (24). In the example the lower lip projects farther in the distal direction than the upper lip. The lower lip (24) comprises, in the part of the lower lip that projects farther distally than the upper lip, a locking element (25) in the form of an upwards directed locking element, wherein this upwards directed locking element together with a recess (26) on the underside of the tongue (21), in the coupled state of the panel with its first edge (2) on the second edge (3) of another such panel, provides locking in the plane of the panels (1) and perpendicular to the coupled edges.

The panel can be coupled with its first edge (2) on the second edge (3) of another such panel by means of a turning motion (W) of the panel relative to the second edge of the other such panel (as illustrated in Fig. 2); and by means of a sliding motion (S) of the panel parallel to the other such panel, giving rise to a snap connection (the sliding motion parallel to another panel giving rise to a snap connection, is illustrated in Fig. 4 for another panel according to the invention).

The first edge (2) comprises, in the upper half of the panel, a first sealing face (11), substantially perpendicular to the plane of the panel. The second edge (3) comprises, in the upper half of the panel, a second sealing face (12), substantially perpendicular to the plane of the panel. Both the first sealing face (11) and the second sealing face (12) are formed for the greater part in the substrate (16).

In the coupled state of the first edge of the panel on the second edge of another such panel, the first sealing face (11) and the second sealing face (12) abut against each other. In the example in Figs. 2 and 3, the first sealing face (11) comes into contact, in the coupled state, with the second sealing face (12). Alternatively (not shown in the figures), there may be a distance between the first sealing face and the second sealing face, measured parallel to the plane of the panel and perpendicular to the coupled edges, less than 0.07 mm, and preferably less than 0.05 mm.

The first edge comprises a third sealing face (13), substantially perpendicular to the plane of the panel and located closer to the underside of the panel than the first sealing face (11). The second edge comprises a fourth sealing face (14), substantially perpendicular to the plane of the panel and located closer to the underside of the panel than the second sealing face (12). The third sealing face (13) and the fourth sealing face (14) in the example are both located in the lower half of the thickness (T) of the panel. The fourth sealing face (14) is located at the distal end of the lower lip (24) of the second edge (3).

In the coupled state of the first edge of the panel on the second edge of another such panel, the third sealing face (13) and the fourth sealing face (14) abut against each other, wherein the third sealing face and the fourth sealing face come into contact with each other. The difference between the first length (LI) and the second length (L2) relative to the average of the first length and the second length is less than 35%, preferably less than 20% and more preferably less than 15%, wherein the first length (LI) is the length of the contact when there is contact between the first sealing face and the second sealing face; and wherein the second length (L2) is the length of the contact when there is contact between the third sealing face and the fourth sealing face.

Fig. 4 illustrates another example of a decorative panel according to the invention in the same view as Fig. 2. Fig. 5 shows the panel from Fig. 4 in the coupled state on its first pair of opposite edges (2, 3). The panel from Figs. 4 and 5 is to a large extent identical to the panel illustrated in Figs. 2 and 3. Identical reference numbers then also have the same meaning. For the panel from Figs. 4 and 5, in the coupled state of the panel on its first pair of opposite edges (2, 3) there is a distance (D) between the third sealing face (13) and the fourth sealing face (14) measured parallel to the plane of the panel and perpendicular to the coupled edges less than 0.07 mm. Preferably this distance (D) is less than 0.05 mm.

Fig. 6 shows another example of a decorative panel (1) according to the invention in the same view as Fig. 2. Fig. 7 shows the panel from Fig. 6 in the coupled state on its first pair of opposite edges (2, 3). The decorative panel (1) from Fig. 6 comprises a substrate (16) and a top layer (17). The top layer (17) comprises a decorative layer (18) and a wear layer (19). The panel (1) comprises a decorative layer (18) on only one of its two sides - more specifically on the upper side. The substrate (16) comprises one or more thermoplastic layers or the substrate is a thermoplastic substrate (16).

The panel (1) comprises a first pair of opposite edges (2, 3), namely a first edge (2) and a second edge (3). The first edge (2) comprises a male coupling part (6) and the second edge (3) comprises a female coupling part (7) so that the first edge of the panel can be coupled to the second edge of another such panel; wherein these coupling parts (6, 7) form a first locking system that provides locking in the plane of the panels (1) and perpendicular to the coupled edges, and also form a second locking system that provides locking transverse to the plane of the panels (1).

The coupling parts on the first pair of edges (2, 3) are configured in such a way that the panel can be coupled on its first edge, by means of a downward motion (M) of the panel relative to another such panel, to the second edge of the other such panel. The first locking system of the first pair of opposite edges (2, 3) is formed from an upwards directed lower hook-shaped portion (28) that is located on the second edge (3), and a downwards directed upper hook-shaped portion (29) that is located on the first edge (2), wherein the lower hook-shaped portion consists of a lip (30) with an upwards directed locking element (31), wherein, proximally of the upwards directed locking element, the female coupling part is formed in the form of a recess (32), whereas the upper hook shaped portion (29) consists of a lip (33) with a downwards directed locking element (34); wherein this downwards directed locking element forms the male coupling part. With the downward motion (M), the downwards directed locking element (34) hooks on the first edge of the panel behind the upwards directed locking element (31) on the second edge of the rear such panel. As a result, locking is formed in the plane of the panels and perpendicular to the coupled edges.

In the example in Fig. 6, the first edge (2) and the second edge (3) are provided with a lower edge region in the form of a chamfer (41).

In the coupled state of the first edge of the panel on the second edge of another such panel, the first sealing face (11) and the second sealing face (12) abut against each other. In the example in Figs. 6 and 7, the first sealing face (11) comes into contact, in the coupled state, with the second sealing face (12). Alternatively (not shown in the figures), there may be a distance between the first sealing face and the second sealing face, measured parallel to the plane of the panel and perpendicular to the coupled edges, less than 0.07 mm, and preferably less than 0.05 mm.

The first edge (2) comprises a third sealing face (13), substantially perpendicular to the plane of the panel and located closer to the underside of the panel than the first sealing face. The second edge (3) comprises a fourth sealing face (14), substantially perpendicular to the plane of the panel and located closer to the underside of the panel than the second sealing face. The third sealing face (13) and the fourth sealing face (14) are both located in the lower half of the thickness (T) of the panel. The fourth sealing face (14) is located at the distal end of the upwards directed locking element (31).

In the example in Figs. 6 and 7, the second locking system is formed at least by an insert (37) in the downwards directed locking element (34), which in the coupled state interacts with surfaces of the proximal end of the second edge. With the insert (37) shown, during coupling by means of the downward motion (M) there is temporary bending of a component of the insert, so that the coupling is formed in the direction perpendicular to the panels.

In the example in Figs. 6 and 7, the angle (A) between on the one hand the proximal end - considered in the upwards direction - of the upwards directed locking element and on the other hand the direction in the plane of the panel directed proximally of the second edge, is less than 90°; and the angle (B) between on the one hand the proximal end - considered in the downward direction - of the downwards directed locking element and on the other hand the direction in the plane of the panel directed proximally of the first edge, is less than 90°. As a result, in the coupled state of the panel (1) on its first edge (2), to the second edge (3) of another such panel, the second locking system is formed at least by contact between the proximal end of the downwards directed locking element (34) of the first edge and the proximal end of the upwards directed locking element (31) of the other such panel.

In the example in Figs. 6 and 7, in the coupled state of the panel (1) on its first edge (2), to the second edge (3) of another such panel, there is no locking in the direction perpendicular to the thus coupled panels at the distal end of the second edge (3) of the other such panel; but there is contact between the third sealing face (13) and the fourth sealing face (14), both of which are perpendicular to the plane of the panel.

Fig. 8 shows another example of a decorative panel according to the invention in the same view as Fig. 2. Fig. 9 shows the panel from Fig. 8 in the coupled state on its first pair of opposite edges.

The panel (1) from Fig. 8, just like the panel from Fig. 6, can be coupled by means of a downward motion (M). Identical reference numbers in Figs. 8 and 9 and in Figs. 6 and 7 then also have the same meaning. The coupling parts on the first pair of edges (2, 3) of the panel from Fig. 8, just as with the panel from Fig. 6, are configured in such a way that the panel can be coupled on its first edge, by means of a downward motion (M) of the panel relative to another such panel, to the second edge of the other such panel.

The differences between the panel from Fig. 8 and the panel from Fig. 6 largely relate to the manner in which the locking is carried out in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the panels with panels coupled on their first pair of opposite edges.

In the example in Figs. 8 and 9, the second locking system is formed at least by a locking element (35) at the distal end of the downwards directed locking element (34) of the panel and an opposite locking element (36) on the opposite edge of the second edge of the other such panel. These locking elements (35, 36) are formed by surfaces of the substrate (16).

In the example in Figs. 8 and 9, the angle (A) between on the one hand the proximal end - considered in the upwards direction - of the upwards directed locking element (31) and on the other hand the direction in the plane of the panel directed proximally of the second edge is equal to 90° or greater than 90°; and the angle (B) between on the one hand the proximal end - considered in the downward direction - of the downwards directed locking element and on the other hand the direction in the plane of the panel directed proximally of the first edge is equal to 90° or greater than 90°.

In the example in Figs. 8 and 9, the second locking system is formed at least by a locking element (38) at the distal end of the lip (30) and/or the upwards directed locking element (31) of the second edge (3) of the other such panel and a locking element (39) on the opposite first edge (2) of the panel, interacting therewith. The third sealing face (13) is located under the locking element (39) of the first edge. The fourth sealing face (14) is located under the locking element (38) at the distal end of the lip (30) and/or of the upwards directed locking element (31) of the second edge.

Fig. 10 shows yet another example of a decorative panel according to the invention in the same view as Fig. 2. Fig. 11 shows the panel from Fig. 10 in the coupled state on its first pair of opposite edges.

The panel (1) from Fig. 10 is to a large extent similar to the panel from Fig. 6. Identical reference numbers then also have the same meaning. The coupling parts on the first pair of edges (2, 3) of the panel from Fig. 10, just like the panel from Fig. 6, are configured in such a way that the panel can be coupled on its first edge, by means of a downward motion (M) of the panel relative to another such panel, to the second edge of the other such panel.

The differences between the panel from Fig. 10 and the panel from Fig. 6 largely relate to the manner in which locking is effected in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the panels, when panels are coupled on their first pair of opposite edges.

In the example in Figs. 10 and 11, the second locking system is formed at least by a locking element (35) at the distal end of the downwards directed locking element (34) of the panel and an opposite locking element (36) on the opposite edge of the second edge of the other such panel. These locking elements (35, 36) are formed by surfaces of the substrate (16).

In the example in Figs. 10 and 11, the angle (A) between on the one hand the proximal end - considered in the upwards direction - of the upwards directed locking element and on the other hand the direction in the plane of the panel directed proximally of the second edge, is less than 90°; and the angle (B) between on the one hand the proximal end - considered in the downward direction - of the downwards directed locking element and on the other hand the direction in the plane of the panel directed proximally of the first edge is less than 90°. As a result, in the coupled state of the panel (1) on its first edge (2), to the second edge (3) of another such panel, the second locking system is formed at least by contact between the proximal end of the downwards directed locking element (34) of the first edge and the proximal end of the upwards directed locking element (31) of the other such panel.

In the example in Figs. 10 and 11, in the coupled state of the panel (1) on its first edge (2), to the second edge (3) of another such panel, there is no locking in the direction perpendicular to the thus coupled panels at the distal end of the second edge (3) of the other such panel; but there is contact between the third sealing face (13) and the fourth sealing face (14), both of which are perpendicular to the plane of the panel.

Fig. 12 shows yet another example of a decorative panel according to the invention in the same view as Fig. 2. Fig. 13 shows the panel from Fig. 12 in the coupled state on its first pair of opposite edges (2, 3).

The panel (1) from Fig. 12 is to a large extent similar to the panel from Fig. 6. Identical reference numbers then also have the same meaning. The coupling parts on the first pair of edges (2, 3) of the panel from Fig. 12 are, just as with the panel from Fig. 6, configured in such a way that the panel can be coupled on its first edge, by means of a downward motion (M) of the panel relative to another such panel, to the second edge of the other such panel. The differences between the panel from Fig. 12 and the panel from Fig. 6 largely relate to the manner in which locking is effected in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the panels, when panels are coupled on their first pair of opposite edges.

In the example in Figs. 12 and 13, the second locking system is formed at least by a locking element (35) at the distal end of the downwards directed locking element (34) of the panel and an opposite locking element (36) on the opposite edge of the second edge of the other such panel. These locking elements (35, 36) are formed by surfaces of the substrate (16).

In the example in Figs. 12 and 13, the angle (A) between on the one hand the proximal end - considered in the upwards direction - of the upwards directed locking element (31) and on the other hand the direction in the plane of the panel directed proximally of the second edge is equal to 90° or greater than 90°; and the angle (B) between on the one hand the proximal end - considered in the downward direction - of the downwards directed locking element and on the other hand the direction in the plane of the panel directed proximally of the first edge is equal to 90° or greater than 90°.

In the example in Figs. 12 and 13, the second locking system is formed at least by a locking element (38) at the distal end of the lip (30) and/or the upwards directed locking element (31) of the second edge (3) of the other such panel and a locking element (39) on the opposite first edge (2) of the panel, interacting therewith. The third sealing face

(13) is located under the locking element (39) of the first edge. The fourth sealing face

(14) is located under the locking element (38) at the distal end of the lip (30) and/or of the upwards directed locking element (31) of the second edge.

Fig. 14 shows yet another example of a decorative panel according to the invention in the same view as Fig. 2. Fig. 15 shows the panel from Fig. 14 in the coupled state on its first pair of opposite edges.

The panel (1) from Fig. 14 is to a large extent similar to the panel from Fig. 6. Identical reference numbers then also have the same meaning. The coupling parts on the first pair of edges (2, 3) of the panel from Fig. 14 are, just as with the panel from Fig. 6, configured in such a way that the panel can be coupled on its first edge, by means of a downward motion (M) of the panel relative to another such panel, to the second edge of the other such panel.

The differences between the panel from Fig. 14 and the panel from Fig. 6 largely relate to the manner in which locking is effected in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the panels, when panels are coupled on their first pair of opposite edges.

With the panel from Fig. 14, in the coupled state of the panel on its first edge (2) to the second edge (3) of another such panel, there is no locking in the direction perpendicular to the coupled panels at the distal end of the downwards directed locking element (34).

In the example in Figs. 14 and 15, the angle (A) between on the one hand the proximal end - considered in the upwards direction - of the upwards directed locking element and on the other hand the direction in the plane of the panel directed proximally of the second edge, is less than 90°; and the angle (B) between on the one hand the proximal end - considered in the downward direction - of the downwards directed locking element and on the other hand the direction in the plane of the panel directed proximally of the first edge is less than 90°. As a result, in the coupled state of the panel (1) on its first edge (2), to the second edge (3) of another such panel, the second locking system is formed at least by contact between the proximal end of the downwards directed locking element (34) of the first edge and the proximal end of the upwards directed locking element (31) of the other such panel.

In the example in Figs. 14 and 15, the second locking system is formed at least by a locking element (38) at the distal end of the lip (30) and/or the upwards directed locking element (31) of the second edge (3) of the other such panel and a locking element (39) on the opposite first edge (2) of the panel, interacting therewith. The third sealing face

(14) is located under the locking element (38) at the distal end of the lip (30) and/or of the upwards directed locking element (31) of the second edge. Fig. 16 shows a cross-section along XVI - XVI in Fig. 1 of a panel (1) according to the invention. Fig. 16 thus shows the configuration of the coupling parts on the second pair of opposite edges (4, 5) of the panel (1). Fig. 17 shows the panel from Fig. 16 in the coupled state on its second pair of opposite edges (4, 5).

The second pair of opposite edges (4, 5) comprises a third edge (4) and a fourth edge (5). The third edge (4) comprises a male coupling part (6) and the fourth edge (5) comprises a female coupling part (7) so that the third edge of the panel can be coupled to the fourth edge of another such panel; wherein these coupling parts (6, 7) form a first locking system that provides locking in the plane of the panels (1) and perpendicular to the coupled edges, and also form a second locking system that provides locking transverse to the plane of the panels (1). Fig. 17 shows the panel from Figs. 1 and 16 in the coupled state on its second pair of opposite edges (4, 5).

The male coupling part (6) on the third edge (4) is configured substantially in the form of a tongue (21). The female coupling part (7) on the fourth edge (5) is configured substantially in the form of a groove (22). The groove (22) is delimited by an upper lip (23) and a lower lip (24). In the example the lower lip projects farther in the distal direction than the upper lip. The lower lip (24) comprises, in the part of the lower lip that projects farther distally than the upper lip, a locking element (25) in the form of an upwards directed locking element, wherein this upwards directed locking element, together with a recess (26) on the underside of the tongue (21), in the coupled state of the panel with its third edge (4) against the fourth edge (5) of another such panel, provides locking in the plane of the panels (1) and perpendicular to the coupled edges.

The panel may be coupled with its third edge (3) against the fourth edge (4) of another such panel by means of a turning motion (W) of the panel relative to the second edge of the other such panel; and by means of a sliding motion (S) of the panel parallel to the other such panel, giving rise to a snap connection. These forms of coupling are illustrated in Figs. 2 and 4, respectively. The third edge (4) comprises, in the upper half of the panel, a first sealing face (11), substantially perpendicular to the plane of the panel. The fourth edge (5) comprises, in the upper half of the panel, a second sealing face (12), substantially perpendicular to the plane of the panel. Both the first sealing face (11) of the third edge and the second sealing face (12) of the fourth edge are formed for the greater part in the substrate (16).

In the coupled state of the third edge of the panel on the fourth edge of another such panel, the first sealing face (11) of the third edge and the second sealing face (12) of the fourth abut against each other. In the example in Figs. 16 and 17, the first sealing face

(11) of the third edge in the coupled state comes into contact with the second sealing face

(12) of the fourth edge. Alternatively (not shown in the figures) there may be a distance between the first sealing face of the third edge and the second sealing face of the fourth edge, measured parallel to the plane of the panel and perpendicular to the coupled edges, less than 0.07 mm, and preferably less than 0.05 mm.

The third edge comprises a third sealing face (13), substantially perpendicular to the plane of the panel and located closer to the underside of the panel than the first sealing face of the third edge. The fourth edge comprises a fourth sealing face (14), substantially perpendicular to the plane of the panel and located closer to the underside of the panel than the second sealing face of the fourth edge. The third sealing face (13) of the third edge and the fourth sealing face (14) of the fourth edge in the example are both located in the lower half of the thickness (T) of the panel. The fourth sealing face (14) of the fourth edge is located at the distal end of the lower lip (24) of the fourth edge (5).

In the coupled state of the third edge of the panel on the fourth edge of another such panel, the third sealing face (13) of the third edge and the fourth sealing face (14) of the fourth edge abut against each other, wherein the third sealing face of the third edge and the fourth sealing face of the fourth edge come into contact with each other. Alternatively (not shown in the figures), according to the invention it is possible that in the coupled state of the panel on its second pair of opposite edges, a distance (D) between the third sealing face (13) of the third edge and the fourth sealing face (14) of the fourth edge, measured parallel to the plane of the panel and perpendicular to the coupled edges, is less than 0.07 mm. Preferably this distance (D) is less than 0.05 mm. This signifies that on the second pair of opposite edges, a situation may arise such as that shown in Figs. 4 and 5 for the first pair of opposite edges.

In the example shown in Figs. 16 and 17, the difference between the first length (LI) and the second length (L2) relative to the average of the first length and second length is less than 35%, preferably less than 20% and more preferably less than 15%, wherein the first length (LI) is the length of the contact when there is contact between the first sealing face of the third edge and the second sealing face of the fourth edge; and wherein the second length (L2) is the length of the contact when there is contact between the third sealing face of the third edge and the fourth sealing face of the fourth edge.

Fig. 18 shows, in the same cross-section as in Fig. 16, another example of the second pair of opposite edges of a decorative panel according to an embodiment of the invention. Fig. 19 shows the panel from Fig. 18 in the coupled state on its second pair of opposite edges.

The third edge (4) comprises a male coupling part (6) and the fourth edge (5) comprises a female coupling part (7) so that the third edge of the panel can be coupled to the fourth edge of another such panel; wherein these coupling parts (6, 7) form a first locking system that provides locking in the plane of the panels (1) and perpendicular to the coupled edges, and also form a second locking system that provides locking transverse to the plane of the panels (1). The male coupling part (6) on the third edge (4) is configured substantially in the form of a tongue (21). The female coupling part (7) on the fourth edge (5) is configured substantially in the form of a groove (22). The groove (22) on the fourth edge is delimited by an upper lip (23) and a lower lip (24). The lower lip projects farther in the distal direction than the upper lip. The lower lip (24) comprises, in the part of the lower lip that projects farther distally than the upper lip, a locking element (25) in the form of an upwards directed locking element, wherein this upwards directed locking element, together with a recess (26) on the underside of the tongue on the third edge, in the coupled state of the panel with its third edge against the fourth edge of another such panel, provides locking in the plane of the panels (1) and perpendicular to the coupled edges.

The third edge (4) comprises, in the upper half of the panel, a first sealing face (11), substantially perpendicular to the plane of the panel. The fourth edge (5) comprises, in the upper half of the panel, a second sealing face (12), substantially perpendicular to the plane of the panel. Both the first sealing face (11) of the third edge and the second sealing face (12) of the fourth edge are formed for the greater part in the substrate (16).

In the coupled state of the third edge of the panel on the fourth edge of another such panel, the first sealing face (11) of the third edge and the second sealing face (12) of the fourth abut against each other. In the example in Figs. 18 and 19, the first sealing face

(12) of the fourth edge. Alternatively (not shown in the figures), there may be a distance between the first sealing face of the third edge and the second sealing face of the fourth edge, measured parallel to the plane of the panel and perpendicular to the coupled edges, less than 0.07 mm, and preferably less than 0.05 mm.

In the coupled state of the panel with its third edge against the fourth edge of another such panel, at the distal end of the lower lip of the fourth edge of the other such panel in the direction perpendicular to the coupled edges there is at least a distance (D) of 0.1 mm - and preferably of at least 0.2 mm, more preferably of at least 0.3 mm - from the third edge of the panel.

In the examples shown, the substrate forms the underside of the panel. However, this is not necessary for the invention. It is also possible for the panel to comprise a damping layer on its underside, fastened on the substrate. This damping layer may for example be a layer of cork or a polymer layer, for example a layer of crosslinked polyethylene (XPE).

Fig. 20 illustrates the principle of "fold down" installation by which embodiments of the invention can be installed. Fig. 21 shows a detail according to F21 of Fig. 20. In the "fold down" method of installation, a panel (1) is coupled with its third edge (4) (a long edge) to the fourth edge (5) of previously installed panels by means of a turning motion (W). During this turning motion, by means of the downward motion (M) the new panel is coupled with its first edge (2) to the second edge (3) of an already installed panel. The "fold-down" method may for example be used when the second pair of edges is configured according to the examples in Figs. 16 and 17; and the first pair of edges may be configured according to the examples in Figs. 6, 8, 10, 12 or 14.

Figs. 22, 23 and 24 show, in the coupled state, alternative embodiments for the embodiment shown in the coupled state in Fig. 3. The reference numbers have the same meaning as in the preceding figures. In the embodiments shown in Figs. 22, 23 and 24, the coupling parts are configured otherwise than in the embodiment shown in Figs. 2 and 3. The embodiments shown in Figs. 22, 23 and 24 may be coupled to each other on their first pair of opposite edges (2, 3) by means of a turning motion.

The embodiments shown in Figs. 22, 23 and 24 may also be used for the second pair of opposite edges (4, 5); thus, as an alternative to the embodiment shown in the coupled state in Fig. 17.

Fig. 25 shows, in the coupled state, an alternative embodiment for the embodiment shown in the coupled state in Fig. 7. The reference numbers in Fig. 25 have the same meaning as in Figs. 6 and 7. The embodiment in Fig. 25 differs from that shown in Figs. 6 and 7 by a different configuration of the coupling parts, including the insert (37).

Fig. 26 shows, in the coupled state, an alternative embodiment for the embodiments shown in the coupled state in Figs. 9, 11, 13 and 15. The reference numbers in Fig. 26 have the same meaning as in Figs. 8-15. The embodiment in Fig. 26 differs from that shown in Figs. 8-15 by a different configuration of the coupling parts, and especially of the locking elements, which in the coupled state provide locking in the direction perpendicular to the coupled panels. The coupling parts on the first pair of edges (2, 3) of the embodiments shown in Figs. 25 and 26 are configured in such a way that the panel can be coupled on its first edge (2), by means of a downward motion (M) of the panel relative to another such panel, to the second edge (3) of the other such panel. Fig. 27 shows, in the coupled state, an embodiment of the invention in the same view as Fig. 3. The reference numbers in Fig. 27 have the same meaning as the reference numbers in Fig. 3. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 27, the first sealing face (11) on the first edge (2) makes an angle (Cl) of 3° with the plane perpendicular to the plane of the panel and parallel to the first edge; and the second sealing face (12) on the second edge (3) makes an angle (C2) of 3° with the plane perpendicular to the plane of the panel and parallel to the second edge. The first edge (2) comprises a third sealing face (13) located closer to the underside of the panel than the first sealing face (11). This third sealing face (13) makes an angle (C3) of 3° with the plane perpendicular to the plane of the panel and parallel to the first edge. The second edge (3) comprises a fourth sealing face (14) located closer to the underside of the panel than the second sealing face (12). This fourth sealing face (14) makes an angle (C4) of 3° with the plane perpendicular to the plane of the panel and parallel to the second edge. In the coupled state, the first sealing face (11) comes into contact with the second sealing face (12); and the third sealing face (13) comes into contact with the fourth sealing face (14).

Fig. 28 shows, in the coupled state, an embodiment of the invention in the same view as Fig. 27. The reference numbers in Fig. 28 have the same meaning as the reference numbers in Fig. 27. The embodiment shown in Fig. 28 is to a great extent identical to the embodiment shown in Fig. 27; except that the orientation of the angles C3 and C4 is different.

Fig. 29 illustrates, in the coupled state, an embodiment of the invention in the same view as Fig. 3. This embodiment has many points in common with the embodiment shown in Fig. 22. The reference numbers in Fig. 29 then also have the same meaning as in Fig. 22. The upper lip (23) of the embodiment in Fig. 29 comprises an additional tongue (40), which fits in the additional groove (41) of the coupled panel. The contact on the upper side of the additional tongue (40) with the underside of the lip that delimits the additional groove (41) has a tight fit.

Claims

1.- Decorative panel, preferably wherein the panel (1) comprises a decorative layer (18) on only one of its two sides, wherein the panel comprises a substrate (16) and a top layer (17), wherein the top layer (17) comprises a decorative layer (18) and optionally a wear layer (19), wherein the substrate comprises one or more thermoplastic layers or wherein the substrate is a thermoplastic substrate or wherein the substrate comprises one or more layers that expand under the influence of temperature; wherein the panel comprises a first pair of opposite edges (2, 3), namely a first edge (2) and a second edge (3), wherein the first edge (2) comprises a male coupling part (6) and the second edge (3) comprises a female coupling part (7), so that the first edge of the panel can be coupled to the second edge of another such panel; wherein these coupling parts (6, 7) form a first locking system that provides locking in the plane of the panels (1) and perpendicular to the coupled edges, and also form a second locking system that provides locking transverse to the plane of the panels (1); wherein the first edge in the upper half of the panel comprises a first sealing face (11), substantially perpendicular to the plane of the panel and/or with an angle less than 10° - and preferably less than 7° and more preferably less than 5° - relative to the plane perpendicular to the plane of the panel and parallel to the first edge (2); wherein the second edge comprises, in the upper half of the panel, a second sealing face (12), substantially perpendicular to the plane of the panel and/or with an angle less than 10° - and preferably less than 7° and more preferably less than 5° - relative to the plane perpendicular to the plane of the panel and parallel to the second edge (3); wherein in the coupled state of the first edge of the panel on the second edge of another such panel, the first sealing face (11) of the panel and the second sealing face (12) of the other such panel abut against each other, preferably wherein the first sealing face and the second sealing face come into contact or wherein the distance (D) between the first sealing face and the second sealing face measured parallel to the plane of the panel and perpendicular to the coupled edges is less than 0.07 mm, more preferably is less than 0.05 mm; characterized in that the first edge, located closer to the underside of the panel than the first sealing face (11), comprises a third sealing face (13), substantially perpendicular to the plane of the panel and/or with an angle less than 10° - and preferably less than 7° and more preferably less than 5° - relative to the plane perpendicular to the plane of the panel and parallel to the first edge; in that the second edge located closer to the underside of the panel than the second sealing face (12), comprises a fourth sealing face (14), substantially perpendicular to the plane of the panel and/or with an angle less than 10° - and preferably less than 7° and more preferably less than 5° - relative to the plane perpendicular to the plane of the panel and parallel to the second edge; wherein in the coupled state of the first edge of the panel on the second edge of another such panel, the third sealing face (13) of the panel and the fourth sealing face (14) of the other such panel abut against each other, preferably wherein the third sealing face and the fourth sealing face come into contact or wherein the distance (D) between the third sealing face and the fourth sealing face measured parallel to the plane of the panel and perpendicular to the coupled edges is less than 0.07 mm, more preferably is less than 0.05 mm.

2.- Decorative panel as in claim 1, characterized in that the first sealing face (11), the second sealing face (12), the third sealing face (13) and the fourth sealing face (14) are configured so that in the cross-section of the panel perpendicular to the plane of the panel and perpendicular to the first pair of opposite edges, the length (LI) of the contact when there is contact between the first sealing face and the second sealing face is less than the length (L2) of the contact when there is contact between the third sealing face and the fourth sealing face.

3.- Decorative panel as in claim 1, characterized in that the first sealing face (11), the second sealing face (12), the third sealing face (13) and the fourth sealing face (14) are configured so that in the cross-section of the panel perpendicular to the plane of the panel and perpendicular to the first pair of opposite edges, the length (LI) of the contact when there is contact between the first sealing face and the second sealing face is greater than the length (L2) of the contact when there is contact between the third sealing face and the fourth sealing face.

4.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the difference between the first length (LI) and the second length (L2) relative to the average of the first length and the second length is less than 35%, preferably less than 20% and more preferably less than 15%, wherein the first length (LI) is the length of the contact when there is contact between the first sealing face and the second sealing face; and wherein the second length (L2) is the length of the contact when there is contact between the third sealing face and the fourth sealing face.

5.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the third sealing face (13) is located in the lower half of the thickness (T) of the panel; and in that the fourth sealing face (14) is located in the lower half of the thickness of the panel.

6.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first sealing face (11) and the second sealing face (12) are formed at least partly in the substrate (16), preferably wherein the first sealing face and the second sealing face are each formed in the substrate for at least 75 percent of their surface.

7.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the male coupling part (6) is configured on the first edge (2) substantially in the form of a tongue (21), while the female coupling part (7) is configured on the second edge (3) substantially in the form of a groove (22); wherein the groove (22) is delimited by an upper lip (23) and a lower lip (24) - preferably wherein the lower lip projects farther in the distal direction than the upper lip - and wherein the lower lip - preferably in the optional part of the lower lip that projects farther distally than the upper lip - comprises a locking element (25) in the form of an upwards directed locking element, wherein this upwards directed locking element together with a recess (26) on the underside of the tongue (21), in the coupled state of the panel with its first edge (2) on the second edge (3) of another such panel, provides locking in the plane of the panels (1) and perpendicular to the coupled edges; preferably wherein the panel can be coupled with its first edge (2) on the second edge (3) of another such panel by means of a turning motion (W) of the panel relative to the second edge of the other such panel; and/or by means of a sliding motion (S) of the panel parallel to the other such panel, giving rise to a snap connection.

8.- Decorative panel as in claim 7, characterized in that the fourth sealing face (14) is located at the distal end of the lower lip (24) of the second edge (3).

9.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims 1-6, characterized in that the coupling parts on the first pair of edges (2, 3) are configured in such a way that the panel can be coupled on its first edge (2) by means of a downward motion (M) of the panel relative to another such panel, to the second edge (3) of the other such panel, wherein the first locking system of the first pair of opposite edges is formed at least from an upwards directed lower hook-shaped portion (28) that is located on the second edge (3), and a downwards directed upper hook-shaped portion (29) that is located on the first edge (2), wherein the upwards directed lower hook-shaped portion (28) consists of a lip (30) with an upwards directed locking element (31), wherein proximally of the upwards directed locking element (31), the female coupling part is formed in the form of a recess

(32), whereas the downwards directed upper hook-shaped portion (29) consists of a lip

(33) with a downwards directed locking element (34); wherein this downwards directed locking element (34) forms the male coupling part; wherein in the downward motion (M), the downwards directed locking element (34) on the first edge of the panel hooks behind the upwards directed locking element (31) on the second edge of the rear such panel.

10.- Decorative panel as in claim 9, characterized in that the fourth sealing face (14) is located at the distal end of the upwards directed locking element (31).

11.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims 9-10, characterized in that in the coupled state of the panel on its first edge (2) to the second edge (3) of another such panel, the second locking system is formed at least by a locking element (35) at the distal end of the downwards directed locking element (34) of the panel and an opposite locking element (36) on the opposite edge of the other such panel, wherein the locking elements (35, 36) are formed by surfaces of the substrate (16).

12.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims 9-10, characterized in that in the coupled state of the panel on its first edge (2) to the second edge (3) of another such panel, the second locking system is formed at least by a locking element at the distal end of the downwards directed locking element of the panel and an opposite locking element on the opposite edge of the other such panel, wherein one of these locking elements - either the locking element on the first edge, or the locking element on the second edge - is formed by an insert (37) and the other locking element by a surface or surfaces of the substrate, wherein the insert, during the downward motion, through displacement, bending or deformation of the insert or of a part thereof, at least partly provides the second locking system in the coupled state.

13.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims 9-10, characterized in that in the coupled state of the panel on its first edge (2) to the second edge (3) of another such panel, there is no locking in the direction perpendicular to the coupled panels at the distal end of the downwards directed locking element (34).

14.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims 9-13, characterized in that the angle (A) between on the one hand the proximal end - considered in the upwards direction - of the upwards directed locking element (31) and on the other hand the direction in the plane of the panel directed proximally of the second edge is less than 90°; and in that the angle (B) between on the one hand the proximal end - considered in the downward direction - of the downwards directed locking element (34) and on the other hand the direction in the plane of the panel directed proximally of the first edge is less than 90°; so that in the coupled state of the panel on its first edge to the second edge of another such panel, the second locking system is formed at least by contact between the proximal end of the downwards directed locking element of the first edge and the proximal end of the upwards directed locking element of the other such panel.

15.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims 9-13, characterized in that the angle (A) between on the one hand the proximal end - considered in the upwards direction - of the upwards directed locking element (31) and on the other hand the direction in the plane of the panel directed proximally of the second edge is equal to 90° or is greater than 90°; and/or in that the angle (B) between on the one hand the proximal end - considered in the downward direction - of the downwards directed locking element (34) and on the other hand the direction in the plane of the panel directed proximally of the first edge is equal to 90° or is greater than 90°.

16.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims 9-15, characterized in that in the coupled state of the panel on its first edge (2) to the second edge (3) of another such panel, the second locking system is formed at least by a locking element (38) at the distal end of the lip (30) and/or of the upwards directed locking element (31) of the second edge (3) of the other such panel and a locking element (39) on the opposite first edge of the panel, interacting therewith, preferably wherein one of these locking elements is formed by an undercut and the other by a projection.

17.- Decorative panel as in claim 16, characterized in that the third sealing face (13) is located under the locking element (39) of the first edge; and in that the fourth sealing face (14) is located under the locking element (38) at the distal end of the lip (30) and/or of the upwards directed locking element (31) of the second edge.

18.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims 9-15, characterized in that in the coupled state of the panel on its first edge to the second edge of another such panel, no locking occurs in the direction perpendicular to the thus coupled panels at the distal end of the second edge of the other such panel.

19.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the third sealing face is made at least partly and preferably completely in the substrate; and in that the fourth sealing face is made at least partly and preferably completely in the substrate.

20.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the panel is rectangular, either oblong or square.

21.- Decorative panel as in claim 20, characterized in that the panel is oblong and in that the first pair of opposite edges form the short edges of the panel.

22.- Decorative panel as in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the coupled state of the first edge of the panel on the second edge of another such panel, the third sealing face (13) of the panel and the fourth sealing face (14) of the other such panel come into contact with each other; and in that the third sealing face (13) and the fourth sealing face (14) are configured so that in the cross-section of the panel perpendicular to the plane of the panel and perpendicular to the first pair of opposite edges, the length (L2) of the contact between the third sealing face (13) and the fourth sealing face (14) is at least 10%, preferably at least 15%, more preferably is at least 15%, more preferably is at least 20%, of the thickness (T) of the panel.

23.- Decorative panel as in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the panel comprises a second pair of opposite edges (4, 5), namely a third edge (4) and a fourth edge (5), wherein the third edge (4) comprises a male coupling part (6) and the fourth edge (5) comprises a female coupling part (7) so that the third edge of the panel can be coupled to the fourth edge of another such panel; wherein these coupling parts (6, 7) form a first locking system that provides locking in the plane of the panels (1) and perpendicular to the coupled edges, and also form a second locking system that provides locking transverse to the plane of the panels (1); wherein the third edge comprises, in the upper half of the panel, a first sealing face (11), substantially perpendicular to the plane of the panel and/or with an angle less than 10° - and preferably less than 7° and more preferably less than 5° - relative to the plane perpendicular to the plane of the panel and parallel to the third edge; wherein the fourth edge comprises, in the upper half of the panel, a second sealing face (12), substantially perpendicular to the plane of the panel and/or with an angle less than 10° - and preferably less than 7° and more preferably less than 5° - relative to the plane perpendicular to the plane of the panel and parallel to the fourth edge; wherein in the coupled state of the third edge of the panel on the fourth edge of another such panel, the first sealing face (11) of the third edge and the second sealing face (12) of the fourth edge abut against each other, preferably wherein these sealing faces come into contact or wherein the distance measured parallel to the plane of the panel and perpendicular to the coupled edges is less than 0.07 mm, more preferably is less than 0.05 mm; wherein the third edge located closer to the underside of the panel than the first sealing face of the third edge comprises a third sealing face (13), substantially perpendicular to the plane of the panel and/or with an angle less than 10° - and preferably less than 7° and more preferably less than 5° - relative to the plane perpendicular to the plane of the panel and parallel to the third edge; wherein the fourth edge located closer to the underside of the panel than the second sealing face of the fourth edge, comprises a fourth sealing face (14), substantially perpendicular to the plane of the panel and/or with an angle less than 10° - and preferably less than 7° and more preferably less than 5° - relative to the plane perpendicular to the plane of the panel and parallel to the fourth edge; wherein in the coupled state of the third edge of the panel, on the fourth edge of another such panel, the third sealing face (13) of the third edge of the panel and the fourth sealing face (14) of the fourth edge of the other such panel abut against each other, preferably wherein these sealing faces come into contact or wherein the distance measured parallel to the plane of the panel and perpendicular to the coupled edges is less than 0.07 mm, more preferably is less than 0.05 mm.

24.- Decorative panel as in claim 23, characterized in that the first sealing face of the third edge and the second sealing face of the fourth edge are formed at least partly in the substrate (16).

25.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims 23-24, characterized in that the third sealing face (13) of the third edge (4) is located in the lower half of the thickness (T) of the panel; and in that the fourth sealing face (14) of the fourth edge (5) is located in the lower half of the thickness of the panel.

26.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims 23-25, characterized in that the first sealing face (11) of the third edge (4) and the third sealing face (13) of the third edge (4) and the second sealing face (12) of the fourth edge (5) and the fourth sealing face (14) of the fourth edge (5) are configured so that in the cross-section of the panel perpendicular to the plane of the panel and perpendicular to the second pair of opposite edges, the length of the contact when there is contact between the first sealing face of the third edge and the second sealing face of the fourth edge is less than the length of the contact when there is contact between the third sealing face of the third edge and the fourth sealing face of the fourth edge.

27.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims 23-25, characterized in that the first sealing face of the third edge and the third sealing face of the third edge and the second sealing face of the fourth edge and the fourth sealing face of the fourth edge are configured so that in the cross-section of the panel perpendicular to the plane of the panel and perpendicular to the second pair of opposite edges, the length of the contact when there is contact between the first sealing face of the third edge and the second sealing face of the fourth edge is greater than the length of the contact when there is contact between the third sealing face of the third edge and the fourth sealing face of the fourth edge.

28.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims 23-26, characterized in that the difference between the third length and the fourth length relative to the average of the third length and the fourth length is less than 35%, preferably less than 20% and more preferably less than 15%, wherein the third length is the length of the contact when there is contact between the first sealing face of the third edge and the second sealing face of the fourth edge; and wherein the fourth length is the length of the contact when there is contact between the third sealing face of the third edge and the fourth sealing face of the fourth edge.

29.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims 23-28, characterized in that the male coupling part (6) on the third edge (4) is configured substantially in the form of a tongue (21), and in that the female coupling part (7) on the fourth edge (5) is configured substantially in the form of a groove (22); wherein the groove (22) on the fourth edge is delimited by an upper lip (23) and a lower lip (24) - preferably wherein the lower lip projects farther in the distal direction than the upper lip - wherein the lower lip (24) - preferably in the optional part of the lower lip that projects farther distally than the upper lip - comprises a locking element (25) in the form of an upwards directed locking element, wherein this upwards directed locking element together with a recess (26) on the underside of the tongue (21) on the third edge in the coupled state of the panel, with its third edge against the fourth edge of another such panel, provides locking in the plane of the panels (1) and perpendicular to the coupled edges; preferably wherein the panel can be coupled with its third edge (4) to the fourth edge (5) of another such panel by means of a turning motion (W) of the panel relative to the fourth edge of the other such panel; and/or by means of a sliding motion (S) of the panel parallel to the other such panel, giving rise to a snap connection.

30.- Decorative panel as in claim 29, characterized in that the fourth sealing face (14) of the fourth edge is located at the distal end of the lower lip (24) of the fourth edge.

31.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims 23-30, characterized in that the third sealing face (13) of the third edge (4) is made at least partly and preferably completely in the substrate (16); and in that the fourth sealing face (14) of the fourth edge (5) is made at least partly and preferably completely in the substrate (16).

32.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims 1-22, characterized in that the panel comprises a second pair of opposite edges (4, 5), namely a third edge (4) and a fourth edge (5), wherein the third edge (4) comprises a male coupling part (6) and the fourth edge (5) comprises a female coupling part (7) so that the third edge of the panel can be coupled to the fourth edge of another such panel; wherein these coupling parts (6, 7) form a first locking system that provides locking in the plane of the panels (1) and perpendicular to the coupled edges, and also form a second locking system that provides locking transverse to the plane of the panels (1); wherein the male coupling part (6) on the third edge (4) is configured substantially in the form of a tongue (21), wherein the female coupling part (7) on the fourth edge (5) is configured substantially in the form of a groove (22); wherein the groove (22) on the fourth edge is delimited by an upper lip (23) and a lower lip (24) - preferably wherein the lower lip projects farther in the distal direction than the upper lip - wherein the lower lip (24) - preferably in the optional part of the lower lip that projects farther distally than the upper lip - comprises a locking element (25) in the form of an upwards directed locking element, wherein this upwards directed locking element together with a recess (26) on the underside of the tongue on the third edge, in the coupled state of the panel with its third edge against the fourth edge of another such panel, provides locking in the plane of the panels (1) and perpendicular to the coupled edges; wherein in the coupled state of the panel with its third edge against the fourth edge of another such panel, at the distal end of the lower lip of the fourth edge of the other such panel in the direction perpendicular to the coupled edges there is at least a distance (D) of 0.1 mm - and preferably of at least 0.2 mm, more preferably of at least 0.3 mm - from the third edge of the panel; preferably wherein the panel can be coupled with its third edge (4) to the fourth edge (5) of another such panel by means of a turning motion (W) of the panel relative to the fourth edge of the other such panel; and/or by means of a sliding motion (S) of the panel parallel to the other such panel, giving rise to a snap connection.

33.- Decorative panel as in claim 32, characterized in that the third edge comprises, in the upper half of the panel, a first sealing face (11), substantially perpendicular to the plane of the panel and/or with an angle less than 10° - and preferably less than 7° and more preferably less than 5° - relative to the plane perpendicular to the plane of the panel and parallel to the third edge; and in that the fourth edge comprises, in the upper half of the panel, a second sealing face (12), substantially perpendicular to the plane of the panel and/or with an angle less than 10° - and preferably less than 7° and more preferably less than 5° - relative to the plane perpendicular to the plane of the panel and parallel to the fourth edge; wherein in the coupled state of the third edge of the panel on the fourth edge of another such panel, the first sealing face (11) of the third edge and the second sealing face (12) of the fourth edge abut against each other, preferably wherein these sealing faces come into contact or wherein the distance measured parallel to the plane of the panel and perpendicular to the coupled edges is less than 0.07 mm, more preferably is less than 0.05 mm.

34.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the panel is provided on its first edge (2) and on its second edge (3) with a lower edge region, such as a chamfer (41) or other bevelling.

35.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the panel comprises a second pair of opposite edges (4, 5), namely a third edge (4) and a fourth edge (5), wherein the panel is provided on its third edge and on its fourth edge with a lower edge region, such as a chamfer or other bevelling.

36.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the substrate comprises one or more layers that comprise a thermoplastic matrix, wherein the thermoplastic matrix is preferably formed from one of the following materials: polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), thermoplastic polyester (for example polyethylene terephthalate), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or a thermoplastic polyamide.

37.- Decorative panel as in claim 36, characterized in that one or more of the one or more layers of the substrate comprise filler, preferably inorganic filler such as lime, chalk, talc, stone particles or clay; or organic filler such as cellulose-based material for example such as wood fibres, wood dust or wood particles.

38.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims 36-37, characterized in that the substrate comprises a layer that comprises a thermoplastic matrix, wherein the thermoplastic matrix comprises a foamed thermoplastic matrix.

39.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims 35-38, characterized in that the substrate comprises at least one layer, wherein the thermoplastic matrix contains plasticizer, preferably plasticizer in an amount greater than 15 phr; more preferably in an amount greater than 20 phr.

40.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims 36-39, characterized in that the substrate comprises at least one layer, wherein the thermoplastic matrix contains less than 5 phr plasticizer, and preferably wherein the thermoplastic matrix does not contain plasticizer.

41.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims 36-40, characterized in that the substrate comprises a first layer with a thermoplastic matrix and comprises a second layer with a thermoplastic matrix, wherein the thermoplastic matrix of the second layer expressed in phr ("parts per hundred resin") contains more plasticizer than the thermoplastic matrix of the first layer, wherein the second layer is located closer to the surface of the panel than the first layer; preferably wherein the first layer comes into contact with the top layer, and more preferably with the decorative layer.

42.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the decorative layer comprises a printed pattern, preferably wherein the pattern is printed on a thermoplastic film - more preferably on a polyvinyl chloride film - or on the substrate or on a layer of paper impregnated with thermosetting resin.

43.- Decorative panel as in claim 42, characterized in that the printed pattern forms an imitation of wood, of a ceramic tile or of a tile made of natural stone material.

44.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the top layer comprises a wear layer, preferably wherein the wear layer comprises a thermoplastic film - more preferably of polyvinyl chloride - optionally with one or more lacquer layers, or wherein the wear layer comprises a layer of paper impregnated with a thermosetting resin - preferably melamine - and optionally comprises particles that increase the wear resistance.

45.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the surface of the panel comprises a relief structure, preferably in register with the decor.

46.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the underside of the panel is formed by the substrate.

47.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims 1-45, characterized in that the panel comprises, on its underside, a damping layer fastened on the substrate, preferably wherein the damping layer is or comprises a layer of cork, or wherein the damping layer is or comprises a polymer layer, more preferably a layer of crosslinked polyethylene (XPE).

48.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the panel is less than 5 mm thick.

49.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the panel comprises a second pair of opposite edges (4, 5), namely a third edge (4) and a fourth edge (5), wherein the third edge (4) comprises a male coupling part (6) and the fourth edge (5) comprises a female coupling part (7) so that the third edge of the panel can be coupled to the fourth edge of another such panel; wherein these coupling parts (6, 7) of the second pair of opposite edges (4, 5) form a first locking system that provides locking in the plane of the panels (1) and perpendicular to the coupled edges, and also form a second locking system that provides locking transverse to the plane of the panels (1); wherein the coupling parts on the first pair of opposite edges (2, 3) and on the second pair of opposite edges (4, 5) are configured so that a plurality of these decorative panels can be installed by means of the "fold down" method.

50.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the panel comprises a wear layer only on one side.

51.- Decorative panel as in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that decorative panel is a floor panel, a wall panel or a ceiling panel.