EP1380710A2 - Flooring panel and method of laying a flooring panel - Google Patents

Abstract

Floor panel (1) comprises an upper side (15) provided with a decorative layer (16), a lower side (7) for placing on a subconstruction, and devices for removably connecting at least two panels. A tongue (10) extending in the longitudinal direction is formed on at least one first side edge of a first panel and a corresponding groove (3) is formed on the opposite-lying second side edge. The groove has an upper lip (4) and a lower lip (6) with a protrusion (9) having an upper side (5) and a front side (8) which blocks with a corresponding undercut (13) of the tongue the panels in the transverse direction (Q). A groove with a bearing region (14) corresponding to the protrusion adjoins the undercut. The bearing region and the upper side of the protrusion are inclined at an angle (mu) to the upper side so that on the vertical introduction of force a force component forces the panels toward each other. Independent claims are also included for processes for laying a floor panel.

Description

The invention relates to a floor panel according to the preamble of the claim 1 and method for laying a floor panel.

From WO 01/75247 A1 a floor panel is known, which at a first Side edge Connecting means for locking in the transverse and vertical direction having. These locking means are arranged on the longitudinal side of the panel and cause the lock by inserting and swinging the Connecting means in a corresponding recess of a second panel he follows. The transverse side of the panel has two snap-in hooks which correspond to one another Undercuts of an adjacent panel when laying engage and hinder the vertical movement between the laid panels should. The two snap hooks lie in vertical direction with each other.

The disadvantage of such a profile is the fact that to ensure a minimal joints on the surface of the panel connecting means to the Longitudinal side must be formed so that in the connection a bias otherwise, there is an excessively large gap between two laid panels exists, in the dirt and moisture can penetrate, what to Swelling of the panel core leads. Furthermore, a bias within the Profils have the disadvantage that the panels are difficult to lay, if this bias is too big.

Based on this prior art, the invention is based on the object to provide a panel with which a simple and safe installation is possible and at the same time realized a minimal butt joint between two panels becomes.

According to the invention this object is achieved by a floor panel with the features of claim 1. The procedures for laying such a profile allow quick and easy installation, with the durable latching the panels is secured with each other.

Advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention are in the dependent Subclaims listed.

Through the formation of a support area and a sales top in one Angle to the top becomes a force component in a vertical load generated in the transverse direction. The inclination is designed such that at a vertical force transmission the laid panels are moved towards each other, so that the original laying is done free of bias, which is the Relocation as such relieved. A vertical load is included any existing gap, and the space between two panels in the Area of the decorative layer tends to zero. By the tension-free laying On one side edge unwanted destruction of the profile is prevented.

In a further development it is provided that to provide a sufficient Movement travel of the panels towards each other to the support area a wall connects, which in the assembled state to form a Freiraumes to the front sales side of this is formed opposite.

For locking in the vertical direction at the first side edge, it is provided that an upper side of the spring in the assembled state at an underside of the Upper lip rests to effect a positive locking.

In a further development of the invention it is provided that on the first side edge an extending in the longitudinal direction of the side edge spring and on the opposite side edge corresponding to the spring recess is formed, wherein the spring is designed such that a lock by inserting into the recess of the second panels and swinging about an axis parallel to the first side edge. Training the connecting elements on the first side edge as a so-called Swivel profile allows easy and safe installation and effective Locking in vertical and transverse direction. By abandoning one elastic deformation during installation by pivoting remains the material structure get the panels and a good strength of the connection is guaranteed. Overall, a lock on such Einschwenkprofil be made more stable at the same effort during installation.

The formation of the recess as a groove with an upper lip and a lower lip ensures that a secure assignment of the panels to be laid to each other, so that a minimum height offset of the panels can be achieved can, what is a quality feature in floor panels. The spring is in Transverse direction latched in the recess, wherein the spring and the recess have in cross-section an arcuate contour to a slight swinging to enable.

For any existing abrasion when laying the first side edges can arise, without this presses the panels apart, are the spring and the recess formed such that mounted in the Condition between the front of the spring and the upper lip adjoining region of the recess there is a gap in which the Abrasion can collect and the movement space of the two panels on each other serves. The gap tapers towards the front heel of the lower lip, a smooth transition between the areas of full-surface plant and to create space for moving and accumulating abrasion. Perhaps Existing abrasion can also be absorbed in a free space, the formed between the spring and the top of the panels by an undercut is.

At a third, at an angle to the first side edge extending side edge are positive locking elements for locking in the vertical direction with another Formed panels, said form-fitting elements at two spaced apart, essentially vertically oriented walls in the transverse direction and spaced apart in the vertical direction, are formed. This will be two spatially separated locking points on the third side edge, especially the transverse side, created, creating a safer lock is ensured to each other laid and laid panels. The order the interlocking elements on two different walls increases the Stability of the entire connection and prevents it from sliding over each other a plurality of mutually arranged positive locking elements a deformation and abrasion of the interlocking elements arises. This is the effectiveness ensures the locking.

The third side edge, in one embodiment of the invention, one of Bottom outgoing, step-shaped cutout with an inner wall and an outer wall. On these walls are each a in Transversely extending form-fitting element formed, preferably milled, the one in corresponding undercuts one from the top outgoing, stepped cut-out of the second panels to be joined intervention. The outgoing from the top, stepped cutout points also an inner and an outer wall on which the corresponding Undercuts are formed so that it becomes a positive fit Lock can come in the vertical direction on the third side edge.

The outgoing from the bottom, step-shaped cutout has an in Direction of the bottom protruding paragraph, which is a substantially horizontally oriented head face, this paragraph being a transverse, perpendicular to the third side edge provides effective locking. The substantially horizontally oriented head surface is used to adjust the minimal height offset and provides a relatively large contact surface for initiation vertically acting forces.

The walls of the heel are at an acute angle to the head face aligned, which allows either easy insertion into a corresponding recess the corresponding cutout of the second panels or at Forming an undercut to the top surface an additional locking effect entails.

It has been found that a transverse extension of the top surface in one Range of 2mm to 6mm very good durability and a very good locking effect preferably, the top surface is 0.25 to 0.4 times the total transverse extent of the stepped cut-out.

A special effective and easy locking on the third side edge is given when a positive locking element on the trailing edge of Top protrudes horizontally. It may be appropriate that between the top and the excellent positive locking element a recess is arranged, which undercuts the end edge of the panels, if necessary to absorb existing abrasion or deforming material of the panels, so that the most accurate installation possible with minimal gap width is because no abraded or deformed material exerts a barrier effect.

The third side edge opposite fourth side edge of the panels has an outgoing from the top, step-shaped cutout with an in Direction of the top protruding paragraph. This paragraph also points a substantially horizontally oriented head surface, wherein in the lower Area of paragraph outer wall is formed an undercut, the with the corresponding positive-locking element of the inner wall of the male Side edge corresponds. The arrangement of the recess in lower portion of the outer wall increases the effectiveness of the locking.

A further development provides that between the Absatzinnenwandung and the inner wall of the cutout is formed a horizontal base surface, is formed in such a way that with laid panels the head surface on the Base surface rests and the tops of the panels lie in a plane, which means that there is a minimum or no height offset between the panels is present. Through the interaction of horizontal base surfaces and top surfaces is a particularly accurate assignment and adjustment of the vertical offset possible, Also, the Abwinkelneigung adjacent panels is reduced, which is the Increased strength of the lock.

The paragraph inner wall of the outgoing from the top of cutout runs parallel or at a shallower angle than the corresponding heel inside of the intervening paragraph to either to cause a precise installation or a component of movement for the two Provide panels in the transverse direction to each other.

Due to the formation of an undercut through the Absatzinnenwandung too the head surface of the corresponding paragraph becomes an additional locking effect achieved.

To bring about a particularly simple installation, the above is projecting Heel of the cutout emanating from the top not over the entire Length of the third side edge is formed, but is in particular an end portion of the third side edge which is toward the one with a spring provided first side edge is milled down to the base surface or not trained. By the removal or non-education of the protruding Paragraph will be the pivoting about the axis parallel to the first Side edge facilitates, so that a blocking effect by the positive locking elements takes place only when the at the third and fourth side edges together adjacent panels at an acute angle to each other. This means, that only a short distance in the vertical direction are covered must to fully lock the panels at the third and fourth side edges.

In a development of the invention, it is provided that on the third side edge, which extends at an angle to the first side edge, at least one Spring and at the opposite fourth side edge at least one groove a first lip and a second lip is formed, wherein on the spring and at least on one of the lips at least one parallel to the top extending Recess is arranged. The recesses are like each other arranged that they with one another correctly connected panels one Form channel for receiving a separate locking element. Through this Embodiment, it is possible, a conventional spring / groove design for locking to use in the vertical direction, as they have decades on floor panels used, which are glued together. The lock in the vertical direction is effected by the insertion of the locking element, whereby a stress-free and thus easy assembly of the third or fourth side edge of a panel. Also, the profile is not Damaged and the production of the profile is easy and inexpensive.

Preferably, the recesses are congruent to one another, so that a symmetrical Locking element can be used, which is also inexpensive can be produced. In particular, it is advantageous if the of the recesses formed channel is cylindrical, thereby the complete symmetry of the channel the insertion of the locking element particularly easy accomplished can be. Alternatively, triangular or quadrangular, polygonal X or V-shaped trained channels provided and suitable. If the channel in cross section is not round, arises after the insertion of the locking element a gearing effect, so that the transferable forces in the junction are increased.

To accomplish a secure locking of the entire panels it is provided that the channel extends over the entire length of the tongue and groove, whereby the force-transmitting surface is increased. The channel is preferably below and parallel to the butt joint of the panels to allow for possible forces close to the butt joint of the panels record or initiate.

In a variant of the invention, it is provided that the groove and the spring are formed such that they effect a locking in the transverse direction, so that a so-called laying profile is created, in which one panel in the other from the top can be inserted, but a shift in the laying level not possible. This will be a particularly accurate allocation of the panels guaranteed to each other and a very large contact surface at the same time easier Profile design realized. By inserting an advantageously made of plastic or metal locking element into the recesses or in the channel is at a corresponding dimensioning of the Locking element generates a force component in the transverse direction, so that the butt joint is minimized. Depending on material design and dimensioning can a resilient bias between the panels on the third or fourth side edge done.

Advantageously, the first side edge on the longitudinal side and the second side edge formed on the transverse side of the panel, so that the Einschwenkbewegung takes place over the long side. This will ensure that a large locking length thanks to the safe and stable pivoting lock is achieved. Alternatively, it is provided that the spring and corresponding on the opposite side surface, the groove formed on the transverse side is and a positive locking on the insertion in one of the Longitudinal introduced cutout takes place.

A particularly stable locking of two floor panels is achieved by that a side edge is formed with a spring, wherein the spring so is formed, that a lock by inserting into a recess of the second panels and pivoting about an axis parallel to the first side edge he follows. This insertion and pivoting is a lock effected both in the transverse direction and in the vertical direction, wherein the recess is formed as a groove with an upper lip and a lower lip, in the the spring is latched in the transverse direction. The lower front area is rounded formed and at this front area is a flattened, essentially closes horizontally extending support area through which the effective Support surface is increased. Also by this support area is a possible accurate assignment of the two panels causes each other, so that a maximum accuracy in terms of height offset and a minimum Abwinkelneigung is reached.

An advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that the floor panel at least partially made of a HDF or MDF material. alternative In addition, the entire floor panel can be made of OSB material be. By using an OSB material, a natural wood look, as well as reaching a structured surface.

A method for laying a floor panel provides that first a plurality of panels at their second side edges for laying out a first row on the floor of a room connected and locked. Subsequently will be another panel with its first side edge at least a panel laid out in the row as the beginning of a second row by inserting and pouring the spring into the corresponding groove and locked. A new panel is immediately abutting with its second side edge at the second side edge of the previously designed further panel arranged in the second row opposite side edge, wherein the spring inserted in the groove and the new panel at an angle to the first row laid out panels.

Subsequently, the new panel is about an axis parallel to the first side edge pivoted in the direction of the floor until the interlocking elements of second side edge of the new panel at the corresponding cutout rest of the other panel. Finally, the new panel is pressed down, until a positive locking over the entire length of the second Side edge has taken place. A further training provides that the depressing preferably pulse-like, in particular by means of one or more Hammer blows or a handball assembly takes place.

An alternative method of laying provides that placing the new panel at a distance between the third side edge and the fourth side edge a previously designed another panel, the spring is not in the groove is inserted. The new panel is angled to the first row laid out Panels. Anschießend the new panel is parallel to an axis parallel to the first side edge pivoted in the direction of the floor and along the first Side edge moved until the spring in the groove forming a butt joint and a channel is recorded. Subsequently, a locking element inserted into the channel and a lock along in the transverse direction the first side edge causes.

In one embodiment of the profile of the third and fourth side edge in such a way, that the tongue and groove causes a locking in the transverse direction, this is done Arranging a new panel with the third side edge immediately abutting to the fourth side edge of the previously designed further panel, wherein the spring is inserted into the groove and the new panel is angled to the first one laid out panels. Then the new panel will be around an axis pivoted parallel to the first side edge in the direction of the floor until the Spring in the groove added to form a butt joint and a channel is. Subsequently, a locking element is inserted into the channel to to lock the panels and prevent them from swiveling up in the horizontal direction.

Figur 1 -

eine Querschnittsansicht eines Fussbodenpaneels mit einer ersten und einer zweiten Seitenkante;

Figur 2 -

zwei miteinander verbundene Paneele an der Verbindungsstelle im Teilquerschnitt;

Figur 3 -

ein Fussbodenpaneel in Querschnittsansicht mit einer dritten und vierten Seitenkante;

Figur 4 -

zwei miteinander verbundene Paneele gemäß Figur 3 an einer Verbindungsstelle der dritten und vierten Seitenkante;

Figur 5 -

eine alternative Ausgestaltung der dritten und vierten Seitenkante im Teilquerschnitt;

Figur 6 -

zwei verriegelte Paneele an der dritten und vierten Seitenkante einer dritten Ausführungsform;

Figur 7 -

zwei verriegelte Paneele der dritten und vierten Seitenkante im Schnitt in einer vierten Ausführungsform;

Figur 8 -

die Ausgestaltung von Feder und Nut in einer fünften Ausgestaltungsform;

Figur 9 -

die Ausgestaltung von Feder und Nut in einer sechsten Ausführungsform; sowie

Figuren 10 - 13 -

Varianten der Ausgestaltung der Nut und Feder sowie eingeschobener Verriegelungselemente.

Hereinafter, an embodiment of the invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Like reference numerals in different figures indicate like objects. Show it:

FIG. 1 -

a cross-sectional view of a floor panel having a first and a second side edge;

FIG. 2 -

two interconnected panels at the junction in the partial cross section;

FIG. 3 -

a floor panel in cross-sectional view with a third and fourth side edge;

FIG. 4 -

two interconnected panels according to Figure 3 at a junction of the third and fourth side edge;

FIG. 5 -

an alternative embodiment of the third and fourth side edge in the partial cross section;

FIG. 6 -

two locked panels at the third and fourth side edges of a third embodiment;

FIG. 7 -

two interlocked panels of the third and fourth side edges in section in a fourth embodiment;

FIG. 8 -

the embodiment of spring and groove in a fifth embodiment;

FIG. 9

the embodiment of spring and groove in a sixth embodiment; such as

Figures 10 - 13 -

Variants of the configuration of the tongue and groove and inserted locking elements.

Figure 1 shows a floor panels 1, which consists of a medium density or high density Fiber board (MDF or HDF) exists. At its top 15 is the Floor panels 1 provided with a decorative layer 16, for example may be formed by having a wood grain having paper layer with a serving as wear protection synthetic resin layer is coated. On the bottom 7, a Schalldämmlage be glued to the footfall sound properties to improve the laid floor panels. Alternative to the use an HDF or MDF board, the panels 1 made of an OSB material (Orientated strands board) are made, here on a decorative layer 16 can be waived. At a first side edge, preferably on the longitudinal side of the panel 1, the panel 1 with a spring 10 and at the opposite second side edge provided with a recess 3.

The recess 3 and the spring 10 extend over the full length of the side edges. On the spring 10 is an outwardly projecting, provided with a tip Nose provided, which merges into a front area, which is an arcuate Has contour. At this front region of the spring 10, an undercut 13 forms, adjoins a support area 14 which at an angle μ to Top 15 of the panels 1 inclined, is formed. To the support area 14 joins a vertically oriented wall 11 at.

The undercut 13 causes, as shown in Figure 2, a locking in the transverse direction Q, in which a positive locking with a corresponding Paragraph 9 of the recess 3 is made. In the assembled state attacks the spring 10 in a formed by an upper lip 4 of the recess 3 undercut a, so that the top 12 of the spring 10 at an underside 40 of the Upper lip rests and a lock in the vertical direction along the first and second side edge takes place. The paragraph 9 is on a lower lip 6 of the recess 3 is formed and completes this, taking on the top of the paragraph 9 a sloping shoulder surface 5 is formed, which serves as a support for serves the support area 14. The conclusion of the panel forms a substantially vertically extending front shoulder 8, which has a rounding in the top of the paragraph 5 passes.

Through the heel top 5 and the support area 14 is a relatively large Support surface provided on the two panels 1, 2 in the connected state lie on one another. The bevel by the angle μ causes at a vertical load a component of movement in the transverse direction Q to each other is generated, so that in the locked state in a top-acting Force component of the gap between the two panels 1, 2 reduced and the original locking by inserting and swinging a first panel in a second panel done without a bias can.

The paragraph 9 is designed so that the front of the sales 8 no contact with the vertical wall 11 consists of a laid panels. So there is a free space 18 before, so that no unwanted blocking effect between the panels 1, 2 is present and a movement toward each other at the initiation of an acting from above Force can be effected.

Between the spring 10 and the top 15 of the panels 1 is an undercut 17 formed, which extends at a right angle to the top 15 extending Edge connects. The undercut 17 forms in the assembled state a Free space in which abrasion or not removed chips from the manufacturing process can be included. Likewise is a suitable education the round front portion of the spring 10 is provided, so that the spring 10th also forms a gap 19 in the mounted state, as a dust bag and movement space can act.

The laying and locking of two panels 1, 2 takes place with such a profile picture, by the first panel 1 with the spring 10 at an angle to the second panel 2 recognized and inserted the spring 10 in the recess 3 of the second panel 2 becomes. Subsequently, the angled first panel 1 is about an axis pivoted parallel to the longitudinal direction of the first side edge, in this case in Clockwise direction, so that the provided with a round contour front area the spring 10 slides along in the correspondingly shaped recess 3, until the top 12 of the spring on the corresponding bottom 40 of the upper lip 4 is present. In this state, as shown in FIG Undercut of the upper lip 4 and the paragraph 9 an effective lock in Vertical direction V and in the transverse direction Q reached.

To lock not only on two opposite side edges of a panel to allow with another panel is at a third and fourth Side edge, each at an angle, preferably a right angle extend to the first or second side edge, a profile formed in Figures 3 - 13 is shown. Again, on opposite side edges formed corresponding profiles whose interaction each is explained.

Figure 3 'shows a profile at a third side edge in cross section, this is preferably formed on the transverse side of the panels. From the bottom 7 starting, a step-shaped cutout 20 is incorporated in the panel 2, which forms an inner wall 21 and an outer wall 22. Both on the inner wall 21 as well as on the outer wall 22 are positive locking elements 23, 24 are formed, milled out here, in the form of protrusions in corresponding undercuts 230, 240 of a corresponding recess 200 a second panel 1 engage. In the cutout 20 is a paragraph 25 is formed, which protrudes toward the bottom 7, wherein the Absatzaußenwandung is formed by the outer wall 22 and the paragraph inner wall 27 in the illustrated embodiment after a forming the above-expanding cross-section. The underside of the paragraph 25 forms a head surface 26 which is parallel to the top 15 of the panels 2 and on the panel 2 in the assembled state via a corresponding Base surface 280 of a corresponding recess 200 of a second panel 1 supported.

As an alternative to the illustrated embodiment, it is provided that the inner surface 27 is substantially parallel to the outer wall 22, so that the paragraph inner wall 27 to the top surface 26 forms an undercut. It is also envisaged that in addition to a substantial straight training the outer wall 22 at an acute angle α to the vertical, the outer wall 22 has a rounded shape or a vertical course. there It is necessary that the positive-locking element 24 via the end edge 28 of the top 15 protrudes to a positive locking with the second panels 1 perform.

Above the positive-locking element 24, a recess 29 is formed, which acts as a dust bag.

If the paragraph inner wall 27 as an undercut to the top surface 26-shaped, an additional locking in the vertical direction is provided, in particular if the corresponding paragraph inner wall 270 of the upwardly directed paragraph 250 also formed as an undercut is. A positive locking then takes place by a slight bending or an elastic deformation of the profiles instead, so that the positive-locking elements 23, 24 and the undercut through the Absatzinnenwandung 27 with the corresponding undercuts 230, 240 and the undercut through the Absatzinnenwandung 270 effectively engage can.

The outgoing from the top 15 cutout 200 is formed in such a way that they can take the opposite profile, so that the head surface 26 on the one hand rests completely flat on the base surface 280, on the other hand, the Surface 15 of the two panels 1, 2 in the assembled state, as shown in the Figure 4 is shown, complete in a plane and as flush as possible lie. Through the recess 29 above the positive-locking element 24th a space 290 is created, which serves as a dust bag; the same applies to the free space 300, by an appropriate positioning of the inner wall 210 of the cutout 200 is formed.

As can be clearly seen in Figure 4, an effective lock is in both Given transverse direction Q and in the vertical direction V, wherein the lock in Transverse Q is positively realized by the paragraphs 25, 250. A Locking in the vertical direction V is performed by the locking elements 23, 24, which engage positively in the undercuts 230, 240, wherein the Positive locking elements 23, 24 at spaced walls 21, 22nd are arranged. In addition, the positive-locking elements 23, 24 on different Vertical levels arranged so that an upper locking point and forms a lower lock point. The upper locking point is formed by the interlocking element 24 and the undercut 240, the lower locking point through the positive locking element 23 and the undercut 230 formed.

The upwardly directed paragraph 250 is not the entire length of the third Side edge is formed, but is over an area down to the base surface 280 milled, with this cutout towards the first side edge lies with a spring. Through the milling or non-training of the paragraph 250 can continue laying the initially angled inserted panels be lowered down before, by a pulse-like Monagebewegung down a final locking over the third side edge, preferably the transverse side, takes place.

Between the top surface 260 of the heel 250 and the corresponding surface the cutout 20 is in the assembled state, a free space available, which is necessary is, so that the positive locking element 23 engage behind the undercut 230 can. Also, this space serves as a dust bag.

In addition to the formation of a panel with a recess 3 on one side edge, which has an upper lip 4 and a lower lip 6, can by a corresponding Profile design also be waived on a lower lip 6, if on another way, a lock in the transverse direction Q and vertical direction V. is ensured. This locking is done so that no movement in the direction the double arrows in the locked state is possible.

Due to the profile presented and the method of laying described, it is possible Easy and quick to lay panels. The profile also has the advantage that about the particular embodiment of the spring 10 and the recess 3 on the one hand a slight swinging and locking, on the other hand a stable support and thus the possibility of setting the height offset as precisely as possible given is. Also, a secure locking of the first side edges in Vertical direction V and transverse direction Q given, and this profile can be particularly mill well in OSB panels.

The profile design on the third side edge allows a special durable positive lock on the third and fourth side edges, preferably the transverse sides of the panels, without requiring expensive additional equipment or special skills would be required during assembly. Next the staggered interlocking elements prevents the large bearing surface a Verwinkelung and thereby easy opening of the lock on the third side edge. In addition, by the positive locking, where a characteristic noise is generated, indicated to the user of the panels, that an effective locking has taken place.

Figure 5 shows an embodiment of the third and the fourth side edge of the panels 1, 2, wherein both panels each having a spring 51, 52 and a groove 61, 62 are formed. The springs 51, 52 and the grooves 61, 62 are in height offset from each other arranged such that the springs 51, 52 in the corresponding Grooves 62, 61 can engage so as to lock in the transverse direction To effect Q. The panels are used to realize a corresponding Lock first locked at the first side edges and then in Transverse direction Q shifted from each other until the end position shown below Forming a minimum butt joint 73 is achieved.

The joints 61, 62 are each by a first lip 63, 64 and a second lip 65, 66 formed, wherein in the first panel 1, the second lip 65 on the first Lip 63 protrudes in the transverse direction Q. This is the case with the second panel 2 conversely, the first lip 64 projects beyond the second lip 66 in the transverse direction Q. out, with the respective protruding lips 64, 65 in the bottom or Pass over the upper side of the springs 52, 51.

In the illustrated embodiment is in the lower, second lip 65 of the first panel and the upper, first lip 64 of the second panel each have a corresponding, groove-shaped, in cross-section semicircular recess 71, 72 milled, which form a channel 75 in the illustrated, assembled state. In this channel 75 is a separate locking element 80, preferably made Plastic, pushed in, leaving a positive locking in the transverse direction Q is effected. By an elastic configuration of the locking element 80 and a slight over-dimensioning can be achieved that the panels 1, 2 are braced to each other, so that the butt joint 73rd always minimally small can be kept. This will create a bias between the panels 1, 2 after laying by the insertion of the locking element 80 causes what a secure assignment of the panels 1, 2 to each other as well as a minimal surface offset. Also will the butt joint 73 is kept closed, leaving no dirt or moisture can penetrate and softens the core of the panels 1, 2.

The recesses 71, 72 are arranged so that the channel 75 and the locking element 80 runs parallel and below the butt joint 73, whereby on the one hand an optimal manufacturing possibility due to the almost symmetrical Training is given as a cutout only partially within the corresponding grooves 61, 62 must be made, on the other hand is still sufficient Material for receiving corresponding forces in the panel material available.

FIG. 6 shows a variant of the profile design on the third and fourth Side edges of the panels 1, 2, wherein on the first panel 1, a spring 51 and formed on the second panel a groove 62 along the respective side edges is. Both in the top of the spring 51 and in the first lip 64 of the Groove 62 are milled in cross-section semicircular recesses, which when joining of the two panels 1, 2 give a cylindrical channel 75. In this channel 75 can be cut to the appropriate length, off Plastic extruded tube can be inserted as a locking element 80, so that via the locking element 80, a locking in the transverse direction Q'stattfindet. The groove 62 and spring 51 lock the panels 1, 2 in vertical Direction.

In the figure 7 a variant of Figure 6 is shown, in which the corresponding Recesses 71, 72 at the bottom of the spring 51 and the second lip 66 of the groove 62 are formed. The recesses 71, 72 are corresponding formed to each other, so that a hexagonal locking element 80th is formed in the correspondingly formed channel 75. The channel 75 is in 9, the corresponding embodiment of the recesses 71, 72 and the groove 62 and the spring 51 according to FIG. 6 are shown in FIG. 8 shown.

Laying the panels 1, 2 with a profile design according to the figures 3 to 9 at the third and fourth side edges takes place by first at the first Side edge of a panel inserted and pivoted into a second side edge is to connect to the third and fourth side edges Panels lie in one plane. Subsequently, the panels along the first Side edge shifted towards each other until the panels abut each other and form a minimal butt joint 73. At the same time through the recesses 71, 72, a channel 75 is formed, in which a correspondingly shaped locking element 80 is inserted. In this way, an effective lock effected in the vertical direction and in the transverse direction Q.

After removal of the locking element 80 can without destroying the profiles a disassembly of the panels are made, leaving any number at laying operations can be performed. Such a design The lock is particularly suitable for elements of exhibition construction.

FIGS. 12 and 13 show further embodiments of the recesses 71, 72, which are also laid using the method described above can. In Figure 12, the channel 75 has a triangular cross-sectional shape, wherein the upper recess 72 is the cross section of an isosceles trapezium and the lower recess 71 in the spring 51 has a triangular shape Has. The locking element 80 is V-shaped and can by a resilient bias a corresponding force component in the transverse direction Effect Q, so that the panels 1, 2 are moved towards each other.

In the figure 13 are each two in cross-section triangular cutouts 71, 72nd milled into the spring 51 and groove 62, and the locking member 80 has an X-shaped cross-section. By inserting the locking elements 80 as shown in FIGS 12 and 13, the legs are compressed and In addition, the butt joint 72 keep close together and thus close to each other Dirt and moisture. To facilitate insertion, the locking elements 80 formed tapered at their ends.

In FIGS. 10 and 11, the groove 62 and the spring 51 are designed in such a way that that a lock when meshing of groove 62 and spring 51 in Transverse Q occurs. At the vertical edges of the groove 62 and spring 51 are milled corresponding recesses into which a locking element 80th can be inserted. In the figure 10, these recesses are shaped designed such that a rectangular locking element 80 is inserted.

FIG. 11 shows a variant of FIG. 10, in which the channel 75 in FIG Circular shape is formed. By such a configuration of the third and fourth Side edge of the panels 1, 2 is an effective locking in the transverse direction Q already by inserting the spring 51 in the groove 62. By the illustrated Geometry is provided a very high bearing surface, allowing forces can be well received and deduced. Also are the recesses 71, 72 relatively easy to manufacture, in particular auszufräsen, and for both Side edges require only one tool. Furthermore, with appropriate Design of the locking elements 80 constructed a pressure that the panels 1, 2 moved towards each other and braced. The secure locking in the vertical direction V is also guaranteed.

The locking elements 80 and the grooves and springs may also differ Have geometries, wherein by the locking element or the Locking elements that component of movement is eliminated, not is blocked by the spring-groove connection. Advantageously, the locking element causes a tension of the panels to each other, so that the butt joint is minimized. The channel for inserting the locking element can thereby extend over the entire joint width or groove width, only corresponding Positive locking elements must be present in order to lock cause.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1-

panels

2

panels

3

groove

4

upper lip

5

Paragraph top

6

bottom lip

7-

bottom

8th-

Paragraph front

9-

paragraph

10-

feather

11-

wall

12-

top

13-

undercut

14-

support area

15

top

16-

decorative layer

17-

undercut

18-

free space

19-

gap

20

Cutout bottom

21-

inner wall

22-

outer wall

23-

Form-fitting element

24

Interlocking element

25

paragraph

26-

head face

27-

Absatzinnenwandung

28-

terminal edge

29-

recess

40

bottom

51-

feather

52-

feather

61-

groove

62-

groove

63, 64-

first lip

65, 66-

second lip

71-

recess

72-

recess

73-

butt joint

75-

channel

80-

locking element

200-

countersink

210-

inner wall

220-

outer wall

230-

undercut

240-

undercut

250-

paragraph

260-

head face

270-

Absatzinnenwandung

280-

plinth area

290-

free space

300-

free space

Claims (33)

Floor panel bounded in a horizontal plane by a top (15) provided with a decorative layer (16) or the like and a bottom (7) provided for resting on a subfloor, comprising means for detachably connecting at least two panels (1, 2) is provided, wherein on at least one first side edge of a first panel (1) extending in the longitudinal direction of the side edge spring (10) and at the opposite second side edge to the spring (10) corresponding recess (3) is formed, wherein the recess (3) consists of an upper lip (4) and a lower lip (6) and the lower lip (6) forms a shoulder (9) with a shoulder top (5) and a front shoulder (8), which with a corresponding undercut (13) of the Spring (10) blocks the panels (1, 2) in the transverse direction (Q), wherein the recess (13) is followed by a recess with a bearing area (14) corresponding to the shoulder (9) t, are characterized in that the bearing support (14) and the heel top side (5) at an angle (μ) in such a way to the top surface (15) formed inclined such that in a vertical application of force, a force component, the panels (1, 2) towards each other too burdened. Floor panel according to claim 1, characterized in that adjoins the Auflagerbreich (14) has a wall (11) which in the assembled state with the formation of a free space (18) to the shoulder front side (8) opposite. Floor panel according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that an upper side (12) of the spring (10) rests in the mounted state on an underside (40) of the upper lip (4). Floor panel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the spring (10) is formed so that a locking takes place by insertion into the recess (3) of the second panel (2) and pivoting about an axis parallel to the first side edge Floor panel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the spring (10) and the recess (3) have an arcuate contour in cross-section. Floor panel according to one of the preceding claims; characterized in that the spring (10) and the recess (3) are designed such that in the assembled state between the front region of the spring (10) and the adjoining the upper lip (4) region of the recess (3) has a gap ( 19) tapering towards the shoulder (9). Floor panel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the spring (10) with an undercut (17) opposite the top (15) is provided. Floor panel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at a third, at an angle to the first side edge extending form-locking elements (23, 24) for locking in the vertical direction (V) are formed with another panel, wherein the positive-locking elements (23, 24 ) are formed at two spaced apart, substantially vertically oriented walls (21, 22) in the transverse direction (Q) and in the vertical direction (V) spaced from each other. Floor panel according to claim 8, characterized in that on the third side edge of the bottom (7) outgoing, step-shaped cutout (20) with an inner wall (21) and an outer wall (22) is formed, wherein on the walls (21 , 22) one each in the transverse direction (Q) extending positive locking element (23, 24) is formed, and in that on the third side edge opposite fourth side edge of the top (15) outgoing, step-shaped cutout (200) having an inner wall ( 210) and an outer wall (220) is formed on which with the positive-locking elements (23, 24) corresponding undercuts (230, 240) are formed. Floor panel according to claim 9, characterized in that from the bottom (7) outgoing, step-shaped cutout (20) in the direction of the bottom (7) protruding shoulder (25) forms, having a substantially horizontally oriented head surface (26). Floor panel according to claim 10, characterized in that the walls (22, 27) of the shoulder (25) to the top surface (26) at an acute angle () are aligned. Floor panel according to claim 11, characterized in that the heel inner wall (27) to the top surface (26) forms an undercut. Floor panel according to one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that the head surface (26) has a transverse extent of 2 to 6 mm. Floor panel according to one of claims 10 to 13, characterized in that the head surface (26) has 0.25 to 0.4 times the total transverse extent of the stepped cut-out (20). Floor panel according to one of claims 8 to 14, characterized in that a positive locking element (24) of the third side edge on the end edge (28) of the upper side (15) protrudes horizontally. Floor panel according to claim 15, characterized in that between the upper side (15) and the outstanding positive locking element (24) a recess (29) is arranged, which undercut the end edge (28). Floor panel according to Claim 9, characterized in that the step-shaped cutout (200) starting from the upper side (15) forms a shoulder (250) projecting in the direction of the upper side (15), which has a substantially horizontally oriented head surface (260), wherein an undercut (230) is formed in the lower region of the outer wall (220), which corresponds with the interlocking element (23) of the inner wall (21) of the cutout (20) of the opposite side edge. Floor panel according to claim 17, characterized in that between the shoulder inner wall (270) and the inner wall (210) of the cutout (200) a horizontal base surface (280) is formed, which is designed such that when laid panels (1, 2) the top surface (26) rests on the base surface (280) and the tops (15) of the panels (1, 2) lie in one plane. Floor panel according to claim 17 or 18, characterized in that the heel inner wall (270) extends parallel or at a shallower angle than the corresponding shoulder inner wall (27) of the engaged in the installed state paragraph (25). Floor panel according to one of claims 17 to 19, characterized in that the paragraph inner wall (270) to the top surface (260) forms an undercut. Floor panel according to one of claims 17 to 20, characterized in that the upwardly projecting shoulder (250) is not formed or removed in at least one end region of the third side edge. Floor panel according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that at least one spring (51, 52) at the third side edge extending at an angle to the first side edge and at least one groove (62, 61) at the opposite fourth side edge Lip (63, 64) and a second lip (65, 66) is formed, wherein on the spring (51, 52) and at least on one of the lips (63, 64, 65, 66) depending at least one parallel to the top (15 ) extending recess (71, 72) is arranged, wherein the recesses (71, 72) to each other are arranged so that they form a channel (75) for receiving a separate locking element (80) in interconnected panels (1, 2). Floor panel according to claim 22, characterized in that the channel (75) is cylindrical, triangular or quadrangular, polygonal, x-shaped or v-shaped. Floor panel according to claim 22 or 23, characterized in that the channel (75) extends over the entire length of the groove (61, 62) and spring (51, 52). Floor panel according to one of claims 22 to 24, characterized in that the channel (75) extends below and parallel to the butt joint (73) of the panels (1, 2). Floor panel according to one of claims 22 to 25, characterized in that the groove (62) and the spring (51) are designed so as to effect a locking in the transverse direction (Q). Floor panel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first and second side edge on the longitudinal side and the third and fourth side edge on the transverse side of the panel (1, 2) is formed. Floor panel according to one of claims 1 to 26, characterized in that the third and fourth side edge on the longitudinal side and the first and second side edge on the transverse side of the panel (1, 2) is formed. Floor panel according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is made of HDF, MDF or an OSB material. Method for laying a floor panel (1, 2) according to one of Claims 1 to 21 and 29, comprising the following steps: a) connecting and locking a plurality of panels (1, 2) at their third side edges for laying a first row on the floor of a room; b) connecting and locking another panel with its first side edge having at least one panel (1, 2) laid out in the first row at the second side edge thereof as the beginning of a second row by inserting and swiveling the spring (10) into the groove (3 ); c) placing a new panel with its third side edge immediately abutting the fourth side edge of the previously designed further panel, the spring (10) being inserted in the groove (3) and the new panel being angled towards the first row of laid out panels (1, 2) stands; d) pivoting the new panel about an axis parallel to the first side edge in the direction of floor until the interlocking elements (23, 24) of the third side edge of the new panel abut the corresponding cutout (200) of the further panel; e) Press down the new panel until a positive locking has taken place over the entire third side edge. A method according to claim 30, characterized in that the pressing down impulsively, in particular by means of a hammer blow or a palm-mounted. Method for laying a floor panel (1, 2) according to one of claims 1 to 7 and 22 to 25 and 27 to 29, comprising the following steps: a) connecting and locking a plurality of panels (1, 2) at their third side edges for laying a first row on the floor of a room; b) connecting and locking another panel with its first side edge having at least one panel (1, 2) laid out in the first row at the second side edge thereof as the beginning of a second row by inserting and swiveling the spring (10) into the groove (3 ); c) arranging a new panel with its third side edge at a distance from the fourth side edge of the previously designed further panel, wherein the spring (51) is not inserted in the groove (62) and the new panel is angular to the first row of laid-out panels ( 1, 2) stands; d) pivoting the new panel about an axis parallel to the first side edge toward the floor and sliding along the first side edge until the spring (51) is received in the groove (62) to form a butt joint (73) and a channel (75) is; e) inserting a locking element (80) in the channel (75). Method for laying a floor panel (1, 2) according to one of Claims 26 to 29, comprising the following steps: a) connecting and locking a plurality of panels (1, 2) at their third side edges for laying a first row on the floor of a room; b) connecting and locking another panel with its first side edge having at least one panel (1, 2) laid out in the first row at the second side edge thereof as the beginning of a second row by inserting and swiveling the spring (10) into the groove (3 ); c) placing a new panel with its third side edge immediately abutting the fourth side edge of the previously designed further panel, the spring (51) being inserted in the groove (62) and the new panel being angled towards the first row of laid-out panels (1, 2) stands; d) pivoting the new panel about an axis parallel to the first side edge toward the floor until the spring (51) is received in the groove (62) to form a butt joint (73) and a channel (75); e) inserting a locking element (80) in the channel (75).

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