EP3467233B1 - Floor panel with a mechanical locking system - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a panel comprising a panel top and a panel underside as well as at least four panel edges, which lie opposite one another in pairs, with complementary retaining profiles provided in pairs on the panel edges, which match one another in such a way that similar panels can be fastened to one another, at least one of the retaining profile pairs being provided with hook profiles is, namely on a panel edge with a receiving hook and on the opposite panel edge with a locking hook.

Flooring of this type is used to produce floor coverings, for example, such panels are particularly suitable for floating floor coverings. The panels usually have decorative surfaces.

The panel to be proposed should be suitable for locking according to the "fold-down method". For this method, a type of panel is used in which one of the pairs of retaining profiles is provided with a modified tongue and groove profile, while the other pair of retaining profiles is provided with the hook profiles according to the invention. For the fold-down method, a new panel is angled and preferably brought with its tongue profile edge to the groove profile edge of a lying panel or a row of panels. The new panel is then swiveled down into the level of the assembled panels, thereby locking the tongue profile with the groove profile. During the mentioned swiveling-down movement, a positive locking of the hook profiles is also generated at the same time, because one of the hook profiles scissors-like on the other hook profile too moved and positively hooked with this. There is a lock.

The proposed hook profiles are also suitable for push-down locking. For a push-down locking, all pairs of holding profiles of a panel must be able to be connected by a vertical movement, i.e. for example by a lowering movement of a panel, namely in a direction perpendicular to the top of the panel (vertical). The fold-down method is then not applicable.

In practice, it happens that a panel cannot be locked at the end of a row of panels because a wall is in the way and the panel is too long. So that the gap in the floor can be closed, it is common to use a panel e.g. cut with a saw to shorten it to the required length. A new row of panels can usually be started with the separated remnant of the panel. The complementary holding profiles of a severed panel always fit together. In principle, therefore, complementary retaining profile edges of a severed panel can be locked together.

The WO 01/02670 suggests different hook profile pairs. The hook profiles are intended to prevent the panels from being pulled apart horizontally, ie in the plane of the panel and perpendicular to the locked panel edges. With a load in the horizontal direction mentioned, however, it is found that the strength of the hook profiles is unsatisfactory.

DE102011086846 describes a panel comprising an upper side, a lower side, a body, complementary locking means which are provided in pairs on opposite panel edges, at least one pair of locking means with hook profiles, namely a receiving hook, and opposite this a locking hook, with the proviso that the receiving hook is distant from the body arranged a hook edge and closer to the body arranged has a receiving recess, the receiving recess being open at the top, that the locking hook is provided with a locking recess arranged closer to the body and open to the underside, and has a locking shoulder arranged away from the body, which fits in the vertical joining direction into the receiving recess of the receiving hook

EP 1108529 describes a thermoplastic laminate plank, the thermoplastic laminate plank comprising a core, a printing layer and optionally a support. The core comprises at least one thermoplastic material and has an upper surface and a lower surface, a printing layer being attached to the upper surface of the core and an overcoating layer being attached to the upper surface of the printing layer. Other panels with hook profile pairs are from the WO 2010/143962 A1 known. The various exemplary embodiments of this prior art suffer from the fact that the pairs of hook profiles can burst if they are pulled apart in the plane of the panel and perpendicular to the locked panel edges. This happens in particular when the panels are made of artificial wood material, which consist of wood particles or fibers, which are bound with a binder to form a plate material.

The applicant is therefore looking for a panel with an improved pair of hook profiles.

For this purpose, the invention proposes a panel according to claim 1.

In the sense of the invention, the normal vector is directed vertically outwards from the corresponding locking surface (not directed into the panel material). The normal vector encloses an angle with the respective panel side that it cuts, which is the same size as the angle by which the locking surfaces are inclined relative to the solder on the top side of the panel (alternating angle).

The inclination of the locking surfaces with respect to the solder on the top of the panel can be in an angular range α of 4 ° to 50 °. The angle α is preferably in a range from 5 ° to 30 ° and particularly preferably in a range from 5 ° to 15 °.

According to the invention, the fuselage of the panel consists at least partially of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a plasticizer being provided, in particular in a range from 00% by weight to ≤20% by weight ≤10% by weight, preferably ≤7% by weight, for example in a range from ≥5% by weight to ≤10% by weight. A suitable plasticizer includes, for example, the plasticizer marketed by BASF under the trade name "Dinsch". Copolymers, such as acrylates or methacrylates, can also be provided as a replacement for conventional plasticizers.

Thermoplastic materials in particular also have the advantage that the products made from them can be recycled very easily. Recycled materials from other sources can also be used. This provides another way of reducing manufacturing costs.

Support plates of this type are very elastic or resilient, which allows a comfortable impression when walking on them and furthermore can reduce the noises occurring when walking on compared to conventional materials, so that improved impact sound insulation can be realized.

In addition, the above-mentioned carrier plates offer the advantage of good water resistance, since they have a swelling of 1% or less. In a surprising way, this applies not only to pure plastic supports but also to WPC materials, as explained in detail below. In a particularly advantageous manner, the material of the carrier plate can comprise or consist of wood-polymer materials (Wood Plastic Composite, WPC). For example, a wood and a polymer can be suitable here, which can be in a ratio of 40/60 to 70/30, for example 50/50. Polypropylene, polyethylene or a copolymer of the two aforementioned materials can be used as polymer components. Such materials offer the advantage that they can be formed into a carrier plate at low temperatures, such as in a range from ≥180 ° C to ≤200 ° C in the above-described process, so that particularly effective process control, for example with line speeds in one Range of 6m / min. For example, for a WPC product with a 50/50 distribution of the wood and polymer parts with an exemplary product thickness of 4.1 mm, this is possible, which can enable a particularly effective manufacturing process.

Furthermore, very stable panels can be produced that still have a high elasticity, which can be particularly advantageous for an effective and inexpensive design of connecting elements on the edge area of the carrier plate and also with regard to impact sound insulation. Furthermore, the aforementioned good water compatibility with a swelling of less than 1% can be made possible with such WPC materials. WPC materials can have, for example, stabilizers and / or other additives, which can preferably be present in the plastic portion.

Furthermore, it can be particularly advantageous that the carrier plate comprises or consists of a PVC-based material. Such materials can also be used in a particularly advantageous manner for high-quality panels, which can also be used without problems in damp rooms, for example. Furthermore, PVC-based materials are also suitable for the carrier plate for a particularly effective manufacturing process, since line speeds of 8 m / min with an exemplary product thickness of 4.1 mm can be possible here, which can enable a particularly effective manufacturing process. Furthermore, such carrier plates also have advantageous elasticity and water compatibility, which can lead to the aforementioned advantages.

Mineral fillers can be an advantage for plastic-based panels as well as for WPC-based panels. According to the invention, calcium carbonate is provided in the fuselage in a range from 30 30% by weight to 70 70% by weight, the chalk of the carrier plate in particular being able to be improved by the chalk. They can also be colored in a known manner. In particular, it can be provided that the material of the carrier plates has a flame retardant.

According to an embodiment not claimed, the material of the carrier plate consists of a mixture of a PE / PP block copolymer with wood. The proportion of the PE / PP block copolymer and the proportion of wood can be between ≥45% by weight and ≤55% by weight. Furthermore, the material of the carrier plate can have between 00% by weight and ≤10% by weight of further additives, such as flow aids, thermal stabilizers or UV stabilizers. The particle size of the wood is between> 0 µm and ≤600 µm with a preferred particle size distribution D50 of ≥400 µm. In particular, the material of the carrier plate can have wood with a particle size distribution D10 of ≥400 µm. The particle size distribution is based on the volumetric diameter and refers to the volume of the particles. The material of the carrier plate is particularly preferably provided as a granulated or pelletized pre-extruded mixture of a PE / PP block copolymer with wood particles of the specified particle size distribution. The granules and / or the pellets can preferably have a grain size in a range from 400 400 μm to 10 10 mm, preferably 600 600 μm to 10 10 mm, in particular 800 800 μm to 10 10 mm.

According to a further embodiment which is not claimed, the carrier plate consists of a mixture of a PE / PP polymer blend with wood. The proportion of the PE / PP polymer blend and the proportion of wood can be between ≥45% by weight and ≤55% by weight. Furthermore, the material of the carrier plate can have between 00% by weight and ≤10% by weight of further additives, such as flow aids, thermal stabilizers or UV stabilizers. The particle size of the wood is between> 0 µm and ≤600 µm with a preferred particle size distribution D50 of ≥400 µm. In particular, the carrier plate can have wood with a particle size distribution D10 of ≥400 µm. The particle size distribution is based on the volumetric diameter and refers to the volume of the particles. The material of the carrier plate is particularly preferably provided as a granulated or pelletized pre-extruded mixture of a PE / PP polymer blend with wood particles of the specified particle size distribution. The granules and / or the pellets can preferably have a grain size in a range from 400 400 μm to 10 10 mm, preferably 600 600 μm to 10 10 mm, in particular 800 800 μm to 10 10 mm.

In a further embodiment, the material of the carrier plate consists of a mixture of a PP homopolymer with wood. The proportion of the PP homopolymer and the proportion of wood can be between ≥45% by weight and ≤55% by weight. Furthermore, the material of the carrier plate can have between 00% by weight and ≤10% by weight of further additives, such as flow aids, thermal stabilizers or UV stabilizers. The particle size of the wood is between> 0 µm and ≤600 µm with a preferred particle size distribution D50 of ≥400 µm. In particular, the carrier plate can have wood with a particle size distribution D10 of ≥400 µm. The particle size distribution is based on the volumetric diameter and refers to the volume of the particles. Particularly preferred the material of the carrier plate is provided as a granulated or pelletized pre-extruded mixture of a PP homopolymer with wood particles of the specified particle size distribution. The granules and / or the pellets can preferably have a grain size in a range from 400 400 μm to 10 10 mm, preferably 600 600 μm to 10 10 mm, in particular 800 800 μm to 10 10 mm. In a further embodiment of the invention, the material of the carrier plate consists of a mixture of a PVC polymer with chalk. The proportion of the PVC polymer and the chalk proportion can be between ≥45% by weight and ≤55% by weight. Furthermore, the material of the carrier plate can have between 00% by weight and ≤10% by weight of further additives, such as flow aids, thermal stabilizers or UV stabilizers. The particle size of the chalk is between> 0 µm and ≤600 µm with a preferred particle size distribution D50 of ≥400 µm. In particular, the material of the carrier plate can have chalk with a particle size distribution D10 of ≥400 µm. The particle size distribution is based on the volumetric diameter and refers to the volume of the particles. The material of the carrier plate is particularly preferably provided as a granulated or pelletized pre-extruded mixture of a PVC polymer with chalk of the specified particle size distribution. The granules and / or the pellets can preferably have a grain size in a range from 400 400 μm to 10 10 mm, preferably 600 600 μm to 10 10 mm, in particular 800 800 μm to 10 10 mm.

In a further embodiment, the material of the carrier plate consists of a mixture of a PVC polymer with wood. The proportion of the PVC polymer and the proportion of wood can be between ≥45% by weight and ≤55% by weight. Furthermore, the material of the carrier plate can be between ≥0% by weight and ≤10% by weight of other additives, such as flow aids, thermal stabilizers or UV stabilizers, exhibit. The particle size of the wood is between> 0 µm and ≤600 µm with a preferred particle size distribution D50 of ≥400 µm. In particular, the material of the carrier plate can have wood with a particle size distribution D10 of ≥400 µm. The particle size distribution is based on the volumetric diameter and refers to the volume of the particles. The material of the carrier plate is particularly preferably provided as a granulated or pelletized pre-extruded mixture of a PVC polymer with wood particles of the specified particle size distribution. The granules and / or the pellets can preferably have a grain size in a range from 400 400 μm to 10 10 mm, preferably 600 600 μm to 10 10 mm, in particular 800 800 μm to 10 10 mm.

To determine the particle size distribution, use can be made of the generally known methods, such as, for example, laser diffractometry, with this method particle sizes in the range from a few nanometers to several millimeters can be determined. It can also be used to determine D50 or D10 values which are 50% or 10% of the measured particles smaller than the specified value.

According to a further embodiment which is not claimed, the material of the carrier plate has a matrix material comprising a plastic and a solid material, the solid material at least 50% by weight, in particular at least 80% by weight, particularly preferably at least 95% by weight , based on the solid material, is formed by talc. The matrix material is present in an amount, based on the material of the carrier, of 30 30% by weight to 70 70% by weight, in particular ≥ 40% by weight to 60 60% by weight, and that is Solid material, based on the material of the carrier, in an amount, based on the material of the carrier plate, of ≥ 30% by weight to ≤ 70% by weight, in particular from ≥ 40% by weight to ≤ 60% by weight, for example less than or equal to 50% by weight. Furthermore, it is provided that the material of the carrier plate and the solid material are present together, based on the material of the carrier plate, in an amount of 95 95% by weight, in particular ≥ 99% by weight.

In such an embodiment, at least 50% by weight, in particular at least 80% by weight, for example 100%, based on the solid material, of the solid material can be formed by talc. Talc is understood to mean, in a manner known per se, a magnesium silicate hydrate which, for example, can have the chemical formula Mg3 [Si4010 (OH) 2]. The solid fraction is thus advantageously formed at least by a large part from the mineral substance talc, this substance being able to be used, for example, in powder form or being present in the material of the carrier plate in the form of particles. In principle, the solid material can consist of a powdery solid. It may be advantageous if the specific surface density according to BET, ISO 4652 of the talc particles is in a range from ≥ 4 m2 / g to ≤ 8 m2 / g, for example in a range from ≥ 5 m2 / g to ≤ 7 m2 / G.

It may also be advantageous if the talc is present at a bulk density in accordance with DIN 53468 in a range from 0,1 0.15 g / cm3 to 0,4 0.45 g / cm3, for example in a range from 0,2 0.25 g / cm3 to. 0.35 g / cm3.

The matrix material in such a configuration serves in particular to absorb or embed the solid material in the finished carrier. The matrix material has a plastic or a plastic mixture. In particular with reference to a manufacturing process, it can be advantageous that the matrix material has a thermoplastic plastic. This makes it possible for the material of the carrier plate or a component of the material of the carrier plate to have a melting point or a softening point in order to form the material of the carrier plate in a further process step by the action of heat. The matrix material can in particular consist of a plastic or a plastic mixture and optionally an adhesion promoter. These components can preferably make up at least 90% by weight, particularly preferably at least 95% by weight, in particular at least 99% by weight of the matrix material.

Furthermore, it can be provided that the matrix material in an amount, based on the material of the carrier plate, of ≥ 30% by weight to ≤ 70% by weight, in particular from ≥ 40% by weight to ≤ 60% by weight is present. Furthermore, it is provided that the solid material, based on the material of the carrier plate, in an amount, based on the material of the carrier plate, of ≥ 30% by weight to ≤ 70% by weight, in particular of ≥ 40% by weight up to ≤ 60% by weight.

Polypropylene is particularly suitable as a matrix material because, on the one hand, it is available inexpensively and, as a thermoplastic, it also has good properties as a matrix material for embedding the solid material. In particular, a mixture of a homopolymer and a copolymer can enable particularly advantageous properties for the matrix material. Such materials also offer the advantage that they can be formed into a carrier at low temperatures, for example in a range from 180 180 ° C. to 200 200 ° C., in the method described above, so that particularly effective process management, for example with Line speeds in a range of 6m / min can be made possible.

Furthermore, it can be advantageous if the homopolymer has a tensile strength according to ISO 527-2, which is in a range from 30 30 MPa to 45 45 MPa, for example in a range from 35 35 MPa to 40 40 MPa, in order to ensure good stability to reach.

Furthermore, it may be advantageous in particular for good stability if the homopolymer has a flexural modulus according to ISO 178 in a range from 1000 1000 MPa to 22 2200 MPa, for example in a range from 13 1300 MPa to 1900 1900 MPa, for example in a range from ≥ 1500 MPa to ≤ 1700 MPa.

With regard to the tensile deformation of the homopolymer according to ISO 527-2, it can also be advantageous if this is in a range from 5 5% to 13 13%, for example in a range from 8 8% MPa to 10 10%.

For a particularly advantageous producibility, it can be provided that the Vicat softening temperature according to ISO 306 / A for an injection molded component is in a range from ≥ 130 ° C MPa to ≤ 170 ° C, for example in a range from ≥ 145 ° C up to ≤ 158 ° C.

It can furthermore be advantageous for the solid material to have at least one further solid in addition to talc. This configuration can in particular make it possible for the weight of the material of the carrier plate or of a panel formed with the material of the carrier plate to be significantly reduced compared to a material of the carrier plate or panel in which the solid material consists of talc. Thus, the solid added to the solid material can in particular have a reduced density compared to talc. For example, the added substance can have a bulk density that is in a range of 2000 2000 kg / m3, in particular of 1500 1500 kg / m3, for example of 1000 1000 kg / m3, particularly preferably of 500 500 kg / m3. Depending on the added Solid can further be adapted to the desired mechanical properties in particular.

By way of example, the further solid can be selected from the group consisting of wood, for example in the form of wood flour, expanded clay, volcanic ash, pumice, aerated concrete, in particular inorganic foams, cellulose. With regard to aerated concrete, this can be, for example, the solid used by the Xella company under the brand name YTONG, which essentially consists of quartz sand, lime and cement, or the aerated concrete can have the aforementioned components. With respect to the added solid, this can be built up, for example, from particles which have the same particle size or particle size distribution as the particle sizes or particle size distributions described above for talc. The further solids can in particular be present in the solid material in a proportion which is in a range from <50% by weight, in particular <20% by weight, for example <10% by weight, furthermore for example <5% by weight, lies.

Alternatively, it can be provided, for example for wood, in particular for wood flour, that its particle size is between> 0 μm and 600 600 μm with a preferred particle size distribution D50 of 400 400 μm.

According to a further embodiment which is not claimed, the material of the carrier plate can have hollow microspheres. Additives of this type can in particular have the effect that the density of the carrier plate and thus of the panel produced can be significantly reduced, so that particularly simple and inexpensive transport and also particularly convenient laying can be ensured. In this case, in particular by inserting hollow microspheres, a stability of the panel produced can be ensured, which is not significant in comparison with a material without hollow microspheres is reduced. The stability is therefore completely sufficient for a large number of applications. Hollow microspheres can in particular be understood to mean structures which have a hollow base body and have a size or a maximum diameter which is in the micrometer range. For example, hollow spheres that can be used can have a diameter which is in the range from 5 5 μm to 100 100 μm, for example 20 20 μm to 50 50 μm. In principle, any material, such as glass or ceramic, can be considered as the material of the hollow microspheres. Furthermore, plastics, for example the plastics also used in the material of the carrier plate, for example PVC, PE or PP, can be advantageous on account of the weight, it being possible, where appropriate, for example by suitable additives, to prevent them from being deformed during the production process.

The hardness of the material of the carrier plate can have values in a range of 30-90 N / mm ² (measured according to Brinell). The modulus of elasticity can be in a range from 3,000 to 7,000 N / mm ² .
The section of the groove base of the locking groove and the section of the top of the receiving edge can be aligned parallel to one another in the locked state.

The receiving groove of the one hook profile is such that the locking edge of the complementary hook profile fits into the receiving groove and the locking groove of the complementary hook profile is such that the receiving edge of the one hook profile fits into the locking groove.

A further development provides that the first latching means of the lower latching has a latching projection and that the second latching means of the lower latching has a matching latching recess.

Alternatively, the first locking means of the lower locking a locking recess and that second locking means of the lower locking have a matching locking projection.

It can also be useful if an upper latching is provided, which has a first latching means on an outside of the locking edge, and a corresponding second latching means is provided on a recessed groove flank of the receiving groove.

The first latching means of the upper latching expediently has a latching projection and that second latching means of the upper latching has a matching latching recess.

Alternatively, the first latching means of the upper latching can have a latching recess and that the second latching means of the upper latching can have a suitable latching projection.

A further benefit is obtained if at least one free space is provided between the underside of the locking edge and the groove base of the receiving groove. The free space can accommodate dirt particles or other loose particles. In the case of panels made of wood-based materials, for example, particles can detach from the panel edge and should not get stuck between the joining surfaces of the hook profiles. Otherwise you could hinder the correct locking of the hook profiles.

In addition, it is useful if, in the locked state, there is a gap between the outside of the receiving edge and the groove flank of the locking groove.

Conveniently, an underside of the locking edge in the locked state touches the groove base of the receiving groove at least in regions. If a load presses on the top of the panel in the area of the locking edge, the locking edge can bear this load because its underside is supported on the groove base of the receiving groove of the receiving hook.

The receiving edge expediently has a transition to the inside the receiving groove, the transition being provided with a curvature. The curvature provides edge protection. It can also be used to guide the locking edge when it comes into contact with the curvature. The locking edge is moved down the curvature into the receiving groove.

Fig. 1

fold-down-Methode rechtsgängig

Fig. 2

fold-down-Methode linksgängig

Fig. 3

ein erstes Ausführungsbeispiel eines erfindungsgemäßen Paneels, wobei das Paneel zerteilt dargestellt ist, um dessen gegenüberliegende Hakenprofile im noch nicht verriegelten Zustand darzustellen,

Fig. 4

die Hakenprofile des Paneels gemäß Fig. 3 im verriegelten Zustand,

Fig. 4a

ein vergrößertes Detail gemäß Ausschnitt IVa in Fig. 4

Fig. 4b

eine Alternative für Fig. 4a

Fig. 5

ein weiteres Ausführungsbeispiel für Hakenprofile des Paneels gemäß Fig. 3 im verriegelten Zustand,

Fig. 5a

ein vergrößertes Detail gemäß Ausschnitt Va in Fig. 5

Fig. 5b

eine alternative für Fig. 5a

Fig. 6

ein weiteres Ausführungsbeispiel für Hakenprofile des Paneels gemäß Fig. 3 im verriegelten Zustand,

Fig. 7

ein weiteres Ausführungsbeispiel für Hakenprofile des Paneels gemäß Fig. 3 im verriegelten Zustand,

Fig. 8

ein weiteres Ausführungsbeispiel für Hakenprofile des Paneels gemäß Fig. 3 im verriegelten Zustand,

Fig. 8a

ein vergrößertes Detail gemäß Ausschnitt VIIIa in Fig. 8

Fig. 8b

eine alternative für Fig. 8a

Fig. 9

ein weiteres Ausführungsbeispiel für Hakenprofile des Paneels gemäß Fig. 3 im verriegelten Zustand,

The invention is illustrated by way of example below in a drawing and described in detail using several exemplary embodiments. Show it:

Fig. 1

fold-down method right-handed

Fig. 2

fold-down method left-handed

Fig. 3

1 shows a first exemplary embodiment of a panel according to the invention, the panel being shown in sections in order to show its opposing hook profiles in the not yet locked state,

Fig. 4

the hook profiles of the panel Fig. 3 in the locked state,

Fig. 4a

an enlarged detail according to section IVa in Fig. 4

Fig. 4b

an alternative for Fig. 4a

Fig. 5

another embodiment for hook profiles of the panel according to Fig. 3 in the locked state,

Fig. 5a

an enlarged detail according to section Va in Fig. 5

Fig. 5b

an alternative for Fig. 5a

Fig. 6

another embodiment for hook profiles of the panel according to Fig. 3 in the locked state,

Fig. 7

another embodiment for hook profiles of the panel according to Fig. 3 in the locked state,

Fig. 8

another embodiment for hook profiles of the panel according to Fig. 3 in the locked state,

Fig. 8a

an enlarged detail according to section VIIIa in Fig. 8

Fig. 8b

an alternative for Fig. 8a

Fig. 9

another embodiment for hook profiles of the panel according to Fig. 3 in the locked state,

Fig. 1 shows a perspective fold-down method for locking panels according to the prior art. A new panel 1 is angled at an angle with a tongue profile edge 2 leading to a slot profile edge 3 of a lying panel 4 of a previous row of panels. The new panel 1 is then pivoted down into the plane of the assembled panels, an identical panel 5 already lying in the same row of panels. The swiveling joining movement locks the tongue and groove profile edges together. The new panel 1 also has a pair of hook profiles, namely a receiving hook (not shown) and a locking hook 6. During the swiveling joining movement, the locking hook 6 of the new panel 1 is scissor-like in the direction of the complementary receiving hook 7 of the identical panel 5. The locking hook 6 hooks with the receiving hook 7 and at the same time with the locking of the tongue and groove profile edge, a positive locking of the hook profiles takes place.

According to Fig. 1 the construction of a floor surface is indicated. In this example, a new panel is always created to the left.

Fig. 2 shows a second example of one in the prior art Technology known fold-down method for locking panels. It differs from the method of Fig. 1 only because a new panel has to be continuously laid to the right, ie the panel edges that have the receiving hook or the locking hook are compared to the example of Fig. 1 been exchanged.

Tongue and groove profiles that are suitable for positive locking using the fold-down method are well known in the prior art, for example from WO 97/47834 A1 or off WO 00/63510 .

Fig. 3 represents a first embodiment of a panel 1 according to the invention with a panel top 1a and a panel underside 1b, with only one pair of retaining profiles of the panel being shown in simplified form. The pair of holding profiles shown here has complementary hook profiles, namely a locking hook 6 (above) and a receiving hook 7 (below). In order to explain the mode of operation, the panel 1 can be thought of as being cut into two parts so that the two hook profiles (6 and 7) of the panel can be hooked together. Hook profiles of identical panels are of course locked in the same way.

The receiving hook 6 has a receiving edge 8 directed towards the top of the panel 1a and a receiving groove 9 open towards the top of the panel. The locking hook 7 is provided with a locking edge 10 directed towards the underside of the panel 1b and with a locking groove 11 open towards the underside of the panel 1b.

An inside of the receiving edge 8 faces the receiving groove 9 and this inside serves as a lower locking surface 12. To this end, the locking hook 7 forms an upper locking surface 13 on an inside of its locking edge 10 facing the locking groove 11, which cooperates with the lower locking surface 12 of the receiving edge 8 .

Both the lower locking surface 12 and the upper locking surface 13 are each inclined by an angle α with respect to the solder L on the upper side of the panel. The inclinations are aligned with one another, so that the corresponding locking surfaces 12 and 13 are aligned parallel to one another in the locked state and can touch.

In addition, the inclination of the lower locking surface 12 is selected such that the normal vector N ₁₂ , which is directed vertically outwards from the lower locking surface 12, intersects the top side 1 a of the panel. Conversely, the normal vector N ₁₃ on the upper locking surface 13 is directed vertically outwards, so that this normal vector N ₁₃ intersects the opposite underside of the panel 1b. In general, the top of the panel 1a and the normal vector N ₁₂ enclose an angle that is as large as the above-mentioned angle α (change angle). The same applies to the underside of the panel, which includes an equally large angle (change angle) with the normal vector N ₁₃ .

With an underside 10a of the locking edge 10, the locking hook 7 is seated firmly on a groove base 9a of the receiving groove 9 of the receiving hook 6. If a load presses on the top side 1a of the panel in the area of the locking edge 10, the locking edge 10 can bear this load because its underside 10a the groove base 9a of the receiving groove 9 is supported.

Another function of the hook profiles is to counteract a height offset of the locked panel edges. For this purpose, a lower catch 14 is provided. This includes a first latching means in the form of a protruding latching projection 15 on the receiving hook 7. The latching projection 15 is arranged on an outer side 8a of the receiving edge 8. Corresponding to this, a second locking means in the form of a locking recess 16 is provided on the locking hook 7. The locking recess 16 is arranged on a recessed groove flank 11a of the locking groove 11.

On the receiving hook 6, a section 8b of the upper side of the receiving edge 8 has a downward slope, namely falling in the direction of the outside 8a of the receiving edge. A section 11b of the groove base of the locking groove 11 is matched to the locking hook 7 in a complementary manner to the inclination of the section 8b of the upper side of the receiving edge 8. In the locked state, the inclined sections 8b and 11b are aligned parallel to one another from the upper side of the receiving edge and from the locking groove base.

In addition, a transition from the upper side 8b of the receiving edge 8 to the lower locking surface 12 is provided on the receiving hook 6. The transition is designed as a curve 17. The curvature 17 is a radius in the present example. Also provided on the locking hook 7 is a transition with a curvature 18 between the section 11b of the groove base of the locking groove 11 and the upper locking surface 13. The curvature 17 at the receiving edge offers edge protection and a guide surface. The edge protection is stronger than the protective effect of a phase which has the same width and height as the curvature 17. The curvature 18 forms a throat. In the present example, it has a radius and serves for stability in the transition region from the upper locking surface 13 to the groove base of the locking groove 11.

According to Fig. 4 are the hook profiles Fig. 3 shown in the locked state. The locking projection 15 of the receiving hook 6, which is arranged on the outside 8a of the receiving edge 8, engages positively in the locking recess 16 which is arranged on the recessed groove flank 11a of the locking groove 11. The lower catch 14 counteracts a height offset of the two top surfaces 1a of the panel, ie a moving apart of the panel edges perpendicular to the panel surface is counteracted. A closed joint F is also formed on the panel surface 1a in the horizontal direction. At this joint, an outer side 10b of the locking edge 10 is in contact with a recessed groove flank 9b of the receiving groove 9.

There is a gap 19 between the inclined section 11b of the groove base of the locking groove and the inclined section 8b of the upper side of the receiving edge 8. This favors avoiding a height offset at the joint F on the top of the panel 1a. In addition, the gap 19 allows a certain flexibility of the locking hook 7. It has a point with its smallest thickness, which is located where the locking groove 11 is the deepest. The flexibility obtained in this way can be used because the gap 19 creates space into which deformation can take place.

Fig. 4a shows a detail, which enlarges a section, which in Fig. 4 is noted with IVa. In Fig. 4a the locking projection 15 is provided on the receiving hook 6, namely on the outside 8a of the receiving edge 8. The locking recess is provided on the locking hook 7 and there on a recessed groove flank 11a of the locking groove 11.

In an alternative, which in the cutout according Fig. 4b is shown, the positions of the locking recess and locking projection are interchanged. Here, a locking recess 15a is arranged on the receiving hook 6, specifically on the outside 8a of the receiving edge 8. A locking projection 16a is then provided on the locking hook 7, namely on the recessed groove flank 11a of the locking groove 11.

Another embodiment for a panel with special hook profiles suggests Fig. 5 in front. This goes from the embodiment of Figures 3 and 4 out. It differs from this by an additional upper catch 20.

The upper catch 20 on the locking hook 7 has a first locking means in the form of a locking projection 21, which is arranged on the outside 10b of the locking edge 10. It acts together with a corresponding second latching means on the receiving hook 6, which is provided on the recessed groove flank 9b of the receiving groove 9. The second latching means forms a latching recess 22, as best shown in the cutout Fig. 5a can be seen. Fig. 5a magnifies the detail that in Fig. 5 is denoted by Va.

In an alternative, the cutout according to Fig. 5b is shown, the positions of the locking recess and locking projection are interchanged. Here, a locking recess 21a is arranged on the locking hook, namely on the outside of the locking edge 10. A locking projection 22a is provided on the receiving hook, specifically on the recessed groove flank 9b of the receiving groove 9.

The embodiment of the Fig. 6 shows hook profiles based on the Figures 3 and 4 have a change, namely in the locked state of the hook profiles shown, a free space 23 is formed, which extends between the groove bottom 9a of the receiving groove 9 of the receiving hook 6 and an underside 10a of the locking edge 10 of the locking hook 7. The free space 23 extends up to the outside 10b of the locking edge 10 or up to the recessed groove flank 9b of the receiving groove 9. The free space 23 can accommodate dirt particles or other loose particles. In the case of panels made of wood-based materials, for example, particles can detach from the edge of the panel. Detached should not get between the joining surfaces of the hook profiles and get stuck there, because otherwise they prevent a correct locking of the hook profiles. Between the bottom 10a of the locking edge 10 and the groove base 9a of the receiving groove 9 is in Fig. 6 proposed free space 23 formed in a gap. The slit-shaped Free space 23 continues towards groove base 9a and in this way creates the desired space for receiving undesired particles.

The embodiment of the Fig. 7 shows hook profiles, which are also based on the Figures 3 and 4 have a change in such a way that again in the locked state of the hook profiles a free space 24 is formed which extends between the groove base 9a of the receiving groove 9 of the receiving hook 6 and an underside 10a of the locking edge 10 of the locking hook 7. The free space 24 extends to the lower locking surface 12 of the receiving hook 6 or to the upper locking surface 13 of the locking hook 7. In order to create the free space 24, the underside 10a of the locking edge 10 is provided with a flat shoulder 24a which protrudes from the underside 10a of the locking edge 10. The free space 24 can also take up dirt particles or other loose particles and, in the case of panels made of wood-based materials, can take up any detached wood particles which would otherwise stick between the joining surfaces of the hook profiles and would hinder a correct locking of the hook profiles. The remaining area of the underside 10a is in the locked state in contact with the groove base 9a of the receiving groove 9 and is thereby supported.

The embodiment of the Fig. 8 also shows hook profiles by the Figures 3 and 4 going out. Compared to these figures, only the lower catch 14 has been modified. According to Fig. 8 the locking projection 15 of the receiving hook 6 projects further from the outside 8a of the receiving edge 8 than in FIG Fig. 4 . The depth of the recess 16 is opposite Fig. 4 unchanged. This creates a gap 25 between the outside 8a and the recessed groove flank 11a of the locking groove 11 of the locking hook 7. The gap 25 improves the snap-in capability of the lower catch 14.

In Fig. 8a the lower catch 14 is enlarged as a cutout. An alternative to Fig. 8a shows the section according to Fig. 8b . Then the position of the locking recess and locking projection is reversed. A latching recess 15a is now arranged on the receiving hook 6 on the outside 8a of the receiving edge 8. A locking projection 16a is provided on the locking hook 7 on its recessed groove flank 11a of the locking groove 11.

Another embodiment for hook profiles of the panel is in Fig. 9 shown. This is also based on the Figures 3 and 4 and also integrates any changes made in the examples from 5, 6 , 7 and 8 were proposed.

Reference symbol list

1

new panel

1a

Panel top

1b

Panel underside

2nd

Tongue profile edge

3rd

Groove profile edge

4th

lying panel previous row

5

Panel of the same row of panels

6

Holding hook

7

Locking hook

8th

Receiving edge

8a

Outside

8b

Top section

9

Groove

9a

Groove base

9b

recessed groove flank

10th

Locking edge

10a

bottom

10b

Outside

11

Locking groove

11a

recessed groove flank

11b

Section of groove base

12

lower locking surface

13

upper locking surface

14

lower catch

15

Locking projection

15a

Rest recess

16

Rest recess

16a

Locking projection

17th

curvature

18th

curvature

19th

gap

20th

upper catch

21st

Locking projection

21a

Rest recess

22

Rest recess

22a

Locking projection

23

free space

24th

free space

25th

gap

α

angle

F

Gap

Claims (10)

1. Panels (1, 4, 5) comprising a panel top side (1a) and a panel underside (1b) and comprising at least four panel margins which are situated opposite one another in pairwise fashion, having complementary holding profiles which are provided in pairwise fashion on the panel margins and which fit together such that identical panels are fastenable to one another, wherein at least one of the holding profile pairs is equipped with hook profiles, specifically with a receiving hook (6) on one panel margin and with an arresting hook (7) on the opposite panel margin, wherein the receiving hook (6) has a receiving edge (8) directed toward the panel top side (1a) and a receiving groove (9) open toward the panel top side, and the arresting hook (7) is equipped with an arresting edge (10) which is directed toward the panel underside (1b) and with an arresting groove (11) which is open toward the panel underside (1b), wherein the receiving edge (8) has an inner side which faces toward the receiving groove (9), and said inner side serves as lower locking surface (12), and in a manner adapted to this, the arresting edge (10) has an inner side which faces toward the arresting groove (11), and said inner side serves as corresponding upper locking surface (13), with the condition that both the lower locking surface (12) and the upper locking surface (13) are each inclined relative to the perpendicular (L) to the panel top side (1a) such that, in the locked state, said lower locking surface and upper locking surface are oriented parallel to one another and can make contact, wherein the inclination of the locking surfaces (12, 13) is selected such that the normal vector (N₁₂) with respect to the lower locking surface (12) intersects the panel top side (1a) and the normal vector (N₁₃) with respect to the upper locking surface (13) intersects the panel underside (1b), wherein a lower detent engagement point (14) is provided which comprises a first detent means (15, 15a) which is arranged on an outer side (8a) of the receiving edge (8), and the lower detent engagement point (14) comprises a second detent means (16, 16a) which corresponds to said first detent means and which is arranged on a recessed groove flank (11a) of the arresting groove (11), characterized in that at least a partial section (8b) of the top side of the receiving edge (8) runs downward in an inclined manner in the direction of the outer side (8a) of the receiving edge (8), wherein at least a partial section (11b) of the groove base of the arresting groove (11) is adapted in complementary fashion to the inclination of the partial section (8b) of the top side of the receiving edge (8), wherein the body of the panel (1, 4, 5) is composed at least partially of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), wherein a plasticizer is provided in a range from ≥0 wt.% to ≤20 wt.%, and wherein, in the body, calcium carbonate (chalk) is provided in a range from ≥30 wt.% to ≤ 70 wt.%.
2. Panel according to Claim 1, characterized in that the first detent means of the lower detent engagement point (14) has a detent projection (15), and in that the second detent means of the lower detent engagement point (14) has a detent depression (16) adapted to said detent projection.
3. Panel according to Claim 1, characterized in that the first detent means of the lower detent engagement point (14) has a detent depression (15a), and in that the second detent means of the lower detent engagement point (14) has a detent projection (16a) adapted to said detent depression.
4. Panel according to one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that an upper detent engagement point (20) is provided which has a first detent means (21, 21a) on an outer side (10b) of the arresting edge (10), and a second detent means (22, 22a) corresponding to said first detent means is provided on a recessed groove flank (9b) of the receiving groove (9).
5. Panel according to Claim 4, characterized in that the first detent means of the upper detent engagement point (20) has a detent projection (21), and in that the second detent means of the upper detent engagement point (20) has a detent depression (21a) adapted to said detent projection.
6. Panel according to Claim 4, characterized in that the first detent means of the upper detent engagement point (20) has a detent depression (21a), and in that the second detent means of the upper detent engagement point (20) has a detent projection (22a) adapted to said detent depression.
7. Panel according to one of Claims 1 to 6, characterized in that at least one free space (23, 24) is provided between the underside (10a) of the arresting edge (10) and the groove base (9a) of the receiving groove (9).
8. Panel according to one of Claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, in the locked state, a gap is provided between outer side (8a) of the receiving edge (8) and groove flank (11a) of the arresting groove (11).
9. Panel according to one of Claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the underside (10a) of the arresting edge (10) makes contact at least in regions with the groove base (9a) of the receiving groove (9) in the locked state.
10. Panel according to one of Claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the receiving edge has a transition to the inner side of the receiving groove (9), and in that the transition is provided with a curvature (17).

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