WO2004053256A1

WO2004053256A1 - Panels comprising a cable channel

Info

Publication number: WO2004053256A1
Application number: PCT/EP2003/004476
Authority: WO
Inventors: Alexander Grohs
Original assignee: Kronospan Technical Company Limited
Priority date: 2002-12-09
Filing date: 2003-04-23
Publication date: 2004-06-24
Also published as: EP1585875B1; EP1585875A1; PL374796A1; DE50305307D1; AU2003227692A1; DE20219110U1; CN1714212A; PL204287B1; CN100441818C; ATE341678T1

Abstract

The invention relates to panels for the provision of a floor covering. Said panels can be configured in two parts and comprise channel-type cavities, in particular along their longitudinal faces. The channel-type cavities can carry cables or tubing. This permits an electric cable to be laid in the middle of a room, without having to undertake complex installation work.

Description

Pαneele ^' with Kαbelkαnαl

The invention relates to components for a floor covering, for example known from the publication DE 202 05 774 Ul,

The components known from the publication DE 202 05 774 Ul comprise a panel which can be positively connected to a second panel, so that there is a lock both perpendicular to the common surface and perpendicular to the joint joint, and at the same time parallel to the common surface glue can then be dispensed with; if the panels are used according to the invention as a covering for a floor or a wall covering,

In principle, the material from which the panels of the aforementioned type can consist can be freely selected. According to the invention, however, panels that are made entirely or predominantly from a woodworking are particularly affected. consist of fabric. A panel can be made entirely of wood. Preferably, a panel comprises a carrier plate, which is made of HDF, for example. One or more parquet slats are applied above the carrier plate. A layer or a paper can be applied below the carrier plate in order to counteract this, thereby avoiding deformations,

There are also known glue-free connectable panels that consist entirely or predominantly of plastic. for example from the publication US 04426820,

The invention further relates in particular to components for a laminate floor. This comprises panels with a carrier plate made of a wood material. HDF and MDF are currently preferred as wood material. Another typical wood-based material consists of glued chips. A decorative layer is applied above the carrier plate, which comprises a decorative paper together with a protective layer. The protective layer consists in particular of a resin which, among other things, has abrasion-resistant particles such as corundum or SIC. ^" A counter-tension paper is applied underneath the carrier plate in order to avoid the aforementioned deformations,

Technical laminates are also used as a carrier board for panels. These are resin-impregnated, pressed layers of paper. The publications WO 96/2771 9 AI and WO 96/27721 AI disclose technical laminates,

Harzgeträn ^'kte papers are fed together in the production of laminate panels with the carrier plate of a press, with supply of heat and pressure, the papers with the carrier plate are glued, this case already has the decorative paper layer with the abrasion resistant particles on,

It is known from the publication EP 1 024 234 B1 that signs of shrinkage and stretching occur in panels. These regularly cause joints between the panels to open undesirably, and moisture and dust can disadvantageously penetrate into the opened joints.

From document DE 202 05 774 Ul it is known to provide lacing or rod-like elements between the panels, the lacing or rod-like elements consist entirely or partially of compressible material, the lacing or rod-like elements are able to compensate for shrinkage and stretching phenomena, so that gaps in the joints can be avoided

Signs of shrinkage and stretching have a particularly problematic effect when covering large areas of 30 square meters and more. By providing the aforementioned lacing or rod-like E- elements made of compressible material between the panels can even provide large-scale coverings,

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

In a room, it is regularly necessary to lay cables, cords and / or hoses.For example, a desk can be in the middle of a room. To provide a connection for a computer, a telephone, a desk lamp, etc., cables must be provided by connections be laid on the walls to the desk. It is generally not appropriate to lay cables or hoses on the floor, as these are tripping hazards

To solve this problem, floors are known in which connections for electricity, etc. are permanently installed distributed over a room, either there are fixed cable feeds already installed in the floor, alternatively or in addition, cables are brought to the desired location from above via the ceiling,

The permanent installation of connections in the floor is complex and can hardly be changed afterwards. If cables are brought over the ceiling, the optics in particular are adversely affected. Here too, the effort is still relatively large. The installation must always be carried out by a specialist , especially since a stable attachment to the ceiling is necessary,

For other reasons, too, it may be necessary to be able to make changes in an already installed covering, for example a floor covering,

The object of the invention is to provide components for a covering that can be handled flexibly, that is, for example, enables flexible supply with cable or hose feeds, The object of the invention is achieved by components with the features of the first claim. Advantageous refinements result from the subclaims.

By providing components for a covering, in particular for floors, which comprise panels and / or rod-like or cord-like elements or hollow bodies, it is possible to integrate a supply of cables or hoses into these components. Since the panels can be laid on a screed or the like at any time and can also be easily removed again, flexible laying is possible, for example, along the hollow body. Sfab-like or cord-like elements can serve directly as current conductors or can be designed in the form of a tube. A power supply in the middle of a room is unproblematic, an elaborate ceiling construction or early planning for a fixed installation is not necessary,

in the assembled state of components, in one embodiment, channel-like cavities are provided for the passage of cables or hoses. This means that there is always room for retrofitting cables and or hoses within a covering.

In an advantageous embodiment, the components comprise panels which are formed from a base body, in particular for carrying out cables or hoses, and a cover. The cover can in particular be positively connected to the base body. A cable or hose can then be laid underneath the cover. The installation is particularly easy because it only has to be installed and then a cover has to be attached.

The lid can be attached, among other things, by gluing. However, the lid is advantageously fastened in a form-fitting manner. Festigungsαrt is particularly easy to use on the one hand, on the other hand, it is fundamentally possible to easily remove the lid again. For example, another cable can easily be laid later or an existing one can be replaced.

The structure of a panel, which comprises a base body and a cover, can be used as follows independently of a cable bushing. Door wipers, lighting elements, heating or cooling elements and / or easily exchangeable advertising boards are integrated in the cover. Door wipers, lighting elements, heating or cooling elements as well as the easily exchangeable advertising boards can be easily assembled, disassembled and / or serviced from above. Advertising media placed on the floor can be enhanced by light effects. A wiper can easily be replaced or cleaned when worn. The possibility of cable routing is advantageous in the cases mentioned in this paragraph, but is not absolutely necessary. It is therefore not absolutely necessary for there to be a cavity under the cover in order to advantageously provide a covering that can be flexibly handled and thus to achieve the object of the invention.

The components advantageously comprise base bodies for the passage of cables or hoses which can be connected to further panels. Viewed from the common surface and / or the common underside, there are preferably elongated one or more recesses for the passage of cables or hoses in the base body. As a precaution, a cable duct can be provided in the covering. Otherwise, for cost reasons, the covering is formed by conventional panels, as are known from the prior art. The connection between the panels and / or between panels and the base body takes place in particular by means of classic tongue and groove connections, the tongue and groove Connection can be glued. The tongue and groove connections advantageously comprise further locking means), as are known for example from EP 1 024 234 B1. The connection can then be done without glue. A subsequent detachment of the panels is then basically possible. An already installed cable duct can then subsequently be changed by disassembling the lining and re-laying, a cable duct can unproblematic retrospectively ^• lent at the desired place to be installed.

If a base body with a cover is provided, then a recess in the base body is expediently closed with the cover. The recess serves for the passage of cables or hoses. The base body with the cover represents a panel in the sense of the invention.

The cover for closing a recess, which is provided for the passage of cables or hoses, advantageously has latching means on the underside, through which the cover has a positive fit on at least one component, in particular on the aforementioned base body

15 can be attached, the locking means consist in an easy-to-manufacture embodiment of essentially perpendicularly leading flanks. In particular, at the end of the respective flank there is at least one locking element protruding to the side, the flanks are suitably elastic, the locking element passes through

20 snapping behind a projection in the associated component in such a way that the positive locking is effected,

In order to achieve a particularly stable hold of the cover, the respective locking element engages around the respective projection in such a way that

25, the lid cannot be detached from the component by a simple pulling movement. In order to be able to detach the cover, it is then necessary to first remove the cover and the associated component from the covering and, for example, to push the flanks suitably far back through openings, for example using a screwdriver.

30 corners, depending on the embodiment, the cover can be detached by moving it parallel to the component. This variant is to be preferred if the cable duct is to be protected against unauthorized access, for example in publicly accessible rooms or against children. alternative

35 the cable duct will be connected to a building partially attached, for example screwed, that it can only be loosened using a tool,

In a ^'einfαcher enclose or to be handled embodiment does not engage behind the abovementioned locking elements or the protrusions such that a release by pulling up the lid is no longer possible by the covering away. This variant is preferred if simple operability is important and special protection against unauthorized access is not required.

There are expediently a plurality of base bodies with recesses for the passage of cables or hoses, the base bodies being able to be connected to one another in particular by means of a tongue and groove connection in such a way that the recesses provide a common channel or groove for the passage of cables or hoses. In this way it is possible to provide a channel of any length for the passage of cables or hoses.

When the components are installed, there are in particular recesses in the recesses provided for cables for conducting electrical

Electricity. There is advantageously at least one component, in particular in the form of a cover ice, which is provided on the top with plugs, sockets and / or at least one hole. The cables are or are then suitably connected to the plugs or sockets, so that a conventional connection for electricity is provided, holes in the cover are used, hoses or cables at the desired location from the cable channel formed, for example, by the base body and cover at the desired location , to lead in or out in the topping,

Is a blanket! placed on a base body, it advantageously forms a common flat surface with the base body, a smooth finish is achieved so that no projections can form trip hazards. However, the surface formed may be provided with ^'slightly projecting knobs which are intended to prevent on the surface, for example, see a Ausrut-. The cable duct will then preferably laid along a step, in this way it fulfills a double function. On the one hand, a person is particularly protected against slipping at the step. The knobs also signal a special danger point. On the other hand, it is used for cable or hose penetration,

A recess for the passage of cables or hoses in a panel or base body extends in particular from one end face to the opposite end face in order to be able to connect a plurality of recesses to one another in a continuous channel.

A recess in a base body for the passage of cables or hoses is advantageously openly accessible from one side, especially from the surface of the covering. In this way, a cable can be conveniently placed in the recesses from above with a covering. Access to the recess is then preferably limited on the surface by protruding rounded knobs. Due to the curvature on the surface in question, the surface widens a little towards the outside. This makes it easier to put on a lid and to close a recess. This prevents damage to edges. If the lid also has knobs, the transition between the base body and the lid is advantageously practically imperceptible,

The basic body for the positive connection is the. has a recess for the passage of cables or hoses, is provided on the inside with protruding knobs or projections which interact with latching means of a cover such that the cover can thereby be connected to the base body by latching,

The base body, which has a recess for the passage of cables or hoses, preferably comprises protruding elevations on which the associated cover, which is provided for closing the recess, rests in the closed state. The lid is thus on relatively small surfaces, small contact surfaces on the one hand can be manufactured with relative ease in order to ensure a smooth covering surface. The risk of interfering contamination Eg in the form of dust in small bodies is bearing surfaces relatively low ^'. Furthermore, the surveys can simultaneously serve to subdivide a recess into several areas, so that cables can be reliably and spatially separated if necessary.

If a recess is not closed by a cover, the recess is advantageously accessible from the outside in the case of a laid covering and overall widens outwards at the edge. A lid can thus be put on particularly easily. Alternatively, it is possible for the lid to taper downwards in order to be able to put it on easily,

A recess for the passage of cables or hoses can be accessible from the outside and have an undercut. The undercut represents a particularly protected area. Particularly sensitive cables can be brought in here in order to protect it particularly well against damage, for example during assembly.

If a base body is provided, which has a recess for the passage of cables or hoses, and an undercut is provided in the recess, this is expediently spatial, in particular by a protruding elevation of a further recess or a further area within the recess separated, cables routed within the undercut are particularly well protected, the elevation can also serve as a support surface for the cover.

In one embodiment, the base body can be designed as a heating or cooling element or contain heating or cooling elements. It is used for temperature control in a room, underfloor heating systems have the disadvantage of reacting too sluggishly. Furthermore, control is difficult. directly represents a heating or cooling element, or heating elements, a much more direct contact with the room is made compared to conventional underfloor heating, the known problems with underfloor heating can be significantly reduced,

The base body and / or the cover expediently consists of metal, in particular of aluminum, metal permits stable manufacture of the filigree structures and is therefore to be preferred.

If a base body is provided, which has a recess for the passage of cables or hoses, and panels made of a wood-based material, the thickness of the panels is expediently equal to the thickness of the base body, the base body can thus be seamlessly integrated into the covering, undesired elevations the surface of the covering are avoided

If a base body has a recess for the passage of cables or hoses, this is advantageously divided into at least two areas by a partition. Several cables or hoses can then be laid separately, which is often desirable for reasons of clarity and / or security.

If a base body is provided with a recess for the passage of cables or hoses and, for example, panels consisting of a wood material, the base body is expediently connected to the panels by coupling elements. The coupling elements are preferably identical to those coupling elements which are provided for connecting two conventional panels. A base body can then be installed at any point in the covering without any problems.

The coupling elements mentioned in the preceding paragraph preferably allow the two components concerned (panels and / or base body) to be form-fitting both perpendicular to the common surface and parallel to the common surface and at the same time can be connected to each other perpendicular to the joint. Laying is particularly easy and can even be carried out by laypersons.

According to the invention, in one embodiment there is a recess between two panels which are interlocked without glue and in which, in the finally installed state, there is a cord-like or rod-like element which, in particular, consists of a compressible material. A panel can also be a base body with a lid. For example, Teflon can be provided as a flexible material. However, a material that has good elastic properties is preferred. The lacing or rod-like element therefore consists, for example, of a rubber. Silicone is preferred over rubber, however, because silicone has a suitably higher restoring force compared to rubber. The higher resilience of silicone compared to rubber has proven to be advantageous

The provision of a gap or recess between the two panels makes it easier to move a panel along a common connecting joint, even if there should be no play between two panels. However, the presence of a game is preferred to ensure ease of movement. A play of a few 1/100 millimeters is sufficient for this purpose.

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

By providing a gap or a recess between the pairs, in which a lacing or rod-like element is located the friction is reduced in particular in comparison to such panels in which the locking elements are integrally connected to the panel and consist of a wood material. According to the invention, for example, panels that are integrally connected to the panel can be provided which consist of a wood material and which are nevertheless relatively light can be moved along a joint joint even if two panels are locked together, if the gap with the cord or rod-like element is on the visible surface, new design options also open up as a side effect. In the joint area, for example, black rubber or silicone material is visible. The surface of the panel can also have a strong contrast to it. This results in new optical effects, which are not known in particular with laminate panels.If a more subtle look is desired, the lacing or rod-like element, as far as this is visible, is color-matched to the visible surface, although there are also decors have a colored border or colored edges on the surface of each panel, in contrast to this, the customer can freely choose the color of the border and also change it later, so it is possible to vary the look of already laid panels with a relatively small effort, without having to remove the floor covering. In addition to the technical advantage of being easier to move, the recess provided on the surface by two adjoining panels offers the possibility of being able to easily change visual impressions,

The lacing or rod-like element can subsequently be pressed or inserted from the surface into the gap or the recess. However, it can also already be connected to a panel, especially if the lacing or rod-like element consists of a compressible material, later However, inserting a separate lacing or rod-like element in a gap offers the advantage that the panels can be moved particularly easily as long as the lacing or rod-like element has not yet been inserted. If there is play between a protruding locking element and a corresponding recess, vertical or undercut contact surfaces can be provided. The cord-like or sfab-like element is then pressed together somewhat when it is connected, if it has already been delivered connected to a panel at the factory. In spite of vertical contact surfaces, a connection can be made ^■ by rotating around a joint joint.

It is even possible to provide undercuts in the protruding locking element and the recess. If interconnected panels are pressed apart parallel to the floor surface, the aforementioned contact surfaces then hook into one another with a correspondingly arranged locking element and a correspondingly arranged recess; A non-destructive loosening of the locking or coupling elements by moving in a plane perpendicular to the connecting joint is not possible. The undesired loosening mentioned in the prior art due to an accidental force effect is avoided even if, for example, a flank of a groove protrudes a locking element at the end is designed to be elastic, so if a particularly reliable locking is to be created parallel to the floor surface and perpendicular to a common connecting joint despite an elastic lip of a groove, then contact surfaces that are undercut or at least perpendicular to the surface should be preferred. are ordered,

If the contact surfaces run obliquely in the manner mentioned at the outset, as is known from the document EP 0 843 763 B1, a rigid configuration of a projecting lower flank or lip of a groove is to be preferred in order to ensure reliable locking parallel and perpendicular to a common one To provide a joint, if a particularly reliable connection between installed panels is required, the protruding lip is rigid, even with vertical contact surfaces, so that it is not possible to loosen it by moving it in a plane perpendicular to the joint, also the rest Coupling elements are then, if necessary, rigid. ^■ these, is affected for example a spring, which is perpendicular with a groove a locking effect to the common surface of the panels, -

If panels are initially locked together, then a match exists and is provided only then the lace-or rod-like member or from above into a occurring gap, recess ^• introducing, so is a particularly simple displacement along a connecting joint with almost no effort. The possibility of moving panels that have already been locked together along a common connecting joint is particularly desirable when two long sides of two panels are already connected and narrow sides are now to be connected. Such a method is known, for example, from publication EP 0855482 B1. In particular if the connection requires regularly to be able to move panels along a common connection joint despite the already locked state, the embodiment in which a cord-like or rod-like element is last inserted or pressed into a gap from above is advantageous.

The lacing or rod-like element typically has a diameter or a width of at least 0.5 mm, preferably of at least 1 mm, particularly preferably of at least 2 mm. The width generally does not exceed 10 mm unless a larger width is desired for optical reasons, the width is preferably less than 5 mm, particularly preferably less than 3 mm, but in principle smaller or larger widths or diameters can be provided, for example for optical reasons,

The gap in which the lacing or rod-like element is located generally has a somewhat smaller width than the lacing or rod-like element, particularly if play is compensated for or dust and moisture are prevented from penetrating into a connecting joint The lacing or rod-like element is then lightly pressed in the gap and is thus held in the gap, but the gap can also have the same width, only a larger width of the gap compared to the width of the lacing or ^' rod-like element or to the diameter should be avoided, since otherwise an undesirable Gap remains on the surface and the cord-like or rod-like element is too easy to detach if it has been inserted from the surface. A press fit of the cord-like or rod-like element in the gap is preferred, since this ensures the gap-free condition and the lacing or rod-like element is held,

In one embodiment of the invention, the cord-like or rod-like element is in the locked state between two surfaces which bring about a locking. For example, these can be the surfaces that are called contact surfaces here. The cord then consists in particular of an elastic material such as rubber or silicone. Before two panels are locked, the cord-like or rod-like element must be placed on one of the aforementioned locked surfaces. The cord-like or rod-like element is then, in particular, partially in a recess and is pushed further or even fully into this when panels are locked together. For example, a panel is rotated or lowered, for example from the publication DE 20008708 U l is known, latched into a second. The cord-like or rod-like element is pressed into the recess. Due to the presence of play, one panel can now be pushed further towards the other panel. The recess is released again, the cord-like element relaxes and gets between the two (contact) surfaces, which cause a locking,

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

In the aforementioned embodiment, it may be expedient for a gap or a recess to remain on the surface even in the relaxed state of the lacing or rod-like element. A second lacing or rod-like element is then introduced into this gap. Alternatively, a cord-like or rod-like element made of compressible material can already be attached to the surface of a butt edge of a panel. This can be advantageous in order to achieve the aforementioned design effects or to compensate for stresses that practically do not occur, particularly with a wood material are avoid

If a first and a second cord-like or rod-like element are provided in a connecting joint between two panels, this also has the advantage that the panels can first be pressed apart somewhat on the surface using an appropriate tool. This creates space so that a cord-like or rod-like element can be inserted easily. If the cord-like or rod-like element is largely inserted, the tool is removed. The lacing or rod-like element, which is located between two locking contact surfaces, then relaxes in such a way that no gap remains on the surface,

If a cord-like or rod-like element is provided in the interior of the connecting joint between two contact surfaces, which bring about a locking, this enables an embodiment in which two panels are connected by coupling elements of a panel initially by a vertical movement relative to the later common surface two panels can be brought in. Coupling elements of a second panel, the cord-like or rod-like element can, for example, be pressed into a corresponding recess. Then the panels are pushed towards one another. ne spring in a groove and thus cause a lock perpendicular to the common surface, the aforementioned lacing or rod-like element finally relaxes and gets between the two locking contact surfaces,

The cord-like or rod-like element can have a circular or triangular-shaped diameter. However, if it is introduced last from the surface, it can be advantageous for the cord-like or rod-like element to be hook-shaped on two opposite sides. If the cord-like or rod-like element is pressed accordingly into a gap from above, so these hooks act like barbs. If the lace-like or rod-like element is pressed into the gap, the visible surface of the lace-like or rod-like element can be designed to be flat, so as to provide a flat closure with the remaining surface of the panels.

Contrary to the surface of the cord-like or rod-like element, which is visible from the surface, a curved recess can be provided, for example, so that obliquely protruding hooks can be better pressed into the gap.

In the embodiment with the hooks and the curved lower recess, it is advantageous to implement a press fit,

The lacing or rod-like element advantageously comprises a thread that can practically not be stretched. The thread is then fundamentally encased in a compressible material. This ensures that the cord-like or rod-like element consisting of a compressible material is not disadvantageously stretched by being pressed into a gap or in a recess. or rod-like element initially stretched so it will contract again when installed. This would result in undesirable areas in the recesses or gaps that are not filled with a cord-like or rod-like element. In order to be able to lay it particularly easily, at least two of them point out. opposite sides of a panel on such locking elements, in which a connection is possible, by first lowering one panel vertically relative to the other, the one panel is arranged parallel to the second, in particular in such a case the narrow sides are equipped with such locking elements if the surface of a panel is rectangular. The long sides are then preferably designed in such a way that a connection generally requires a rotary movement around a connecting joint. If a panel on the long side is connected to the long side of a second panel by a rotational movement, a narrow side can also be locked into the corresponding position - or the coupling element of an already installed panel. This is also the narrow side of the already installed panel. Depending on the embodiment, it may then be necessary to slightly push the panels that are connected to each other via the narrow sides, Typically, this last shifting can be limited to a few 1/10 millimeters. In this way, the shifting to the final position is kept very low compared to the prior art mentioned at the outset. Accordingly, the time required for laying can be reduced. It should also be borne in mind that e in methods for the laying of the panels, which includes moving, among other things, is particularly undesirable when a panel is initially close to a wall. A tool can then hardly be brought between the panel and the wall in order to carry out the movement by means of a tool. Moving can also be particularly undesirable if there is a small projection, for example due to a door frame, in a space to which a panel is possible Then it is particularly advantageous to be able to connect panels to one another by a lowering movement. The narrow sides can be made, for example, in the manner known from the publication DE 20008708 U1 insofar as the coupling elements known therefrom relate to a connection by lowering . The cord-like or rod-like element can have an essentially rectangular or square diameter in order to be able to effect a planar closure on the surface.

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

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

^'If two rod- or cord-like elements are provided, these are preferably arranged so that the restoring forces which occur due to the rod- or cord-like elements are such that no gap remains on the surface. It is therefore advantageous that a rod-like or cord-like element, which borders on the visible surface of the panels, can cause relatively low restoring forces. Panels are not undesirably pushed as far apart. The restoring forces can be suitably adjusted by choosing the materials from which the rod-like or cord-like element are made. In addition or as an alternative, the cross sections can be selected appropriately. The rod-like or cord-like element adjacent to the surface therefore preferably has a larger cross-sectional area than that of the other rod-like or cord-like element.

In a further embodiment, a cord-like or rod-shaped element locks two panels in one of the directions mentioned, that is to say, for example, perpendicular to the common surface of the panels. In particular, two panels are locked in parallel and at the same time perpendicular to the joint joint when the rod-shaped or cord-shaped element is pushed into a corresponding recess, The embodiment in which the pushing in of a rod-shaped or cord-shaped element locks two panels in turn enables the presence of vertical or undercut contact surfaces. A connection is thus achieved which is retained even when force is not provided. In the simplest case, the cord-like or rod-shaped element has a rectangular cross-section in order to obtain vertical contact surfaces that receive a lock, for example, parallel to the surface and at the same time perpendicular to the joint of two panels. The coupling elements of the two panels which are to be connected comprise ^' recesses which also have a rectangular cross section. If the two panels are joined together, for example by shifting in one plane, there is finally an end position in which the two Border the above-mentioned recesses with the rectangular cross sections, they then form a channel with a rectangular cross section. The lacing or rod-shaped element is then pushed into this channel. If the cord-like or rod-shaped element is sufficiently wide and sufficiently high, the two panels are locked together without any play occurring. The contact surfaces which bring about the form-locking locking are vertical,

In the case of the prior art mentioned, in which a connection is made on the basis of a tongue and groove connection, an elastic lip or finger and even further locking elements are provided, in order to enable a form-fitting connection by shifting in one plane, damage can occur in particular , If the material is relatively rigid, This is particularly the case if the coupling elements consist of a wood material, for example HDF or MDF. These easily possible damage to the coupling elements can be reported in the aforementioned embodiment. The connection can be mechanically very stable since vertical or undercut contact surfaces can be provided. Even with inclined contact surfaces, such as those known from EP 00843763 B1, a more stable mechanical connection can be achieved. tion are made possible since an elastic flank is not required and the locking element can protrude relatively far.

If a protruding flank is provided in the manner known from the document EP 00843763 B1, it can be comparatively short, since it is not deflected downwards when connecting. Material is saved accordingly, so that there is a cost advantage here.

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

In order to reach undercut contact surfaces in the embodiment in which the pushing in of a rod-shaped or cord-shaped element causes a locking of two panels, the rod-like or cord-like element has a constriction in cross section, for example, recesses in coupling elements into which the rod - or a cord-like element is pushed in for the purpose of locking, expediently have a cross section corresponding to this,

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

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

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

The embodiment in which the pushing in of a rod-shaped or cord-shaped element causes a locking of two panels can be used in a panel with the coupling elements known from the prior art to provide a glueless connection. be binated. A panel with a rectangular surface, for example, is particularly preferred, which is preferably configured on the long side in such a way that it can be connected to a second panel without glue by means of a rotary movement, so that no play remains between the panels ^'WO 01/48332 is known, in particular, this embodiment includes a rigid, protruding lower lip or edge, in order to achieve a mechanically stable connection, then to another side of the panel, ie in particular on the narrow side, the embodiment seen upstream, in which the pushing in of a rod-shaped or cord-shaped element causes two panels to lock. First, a first and a second panel are connected to one another by means of the rotary movement, and then the second panel is joined along the joint joint to an adjacent one, already with the first panel. neel connected panel added Finally, the second and third panels are finally connected to one another by pushing the rod-shaped or cord-shaped element into a channel, which has been formed by recesses in the corresponding coupling elements,

According to the invention, it can be a parquet or laminate panel or the like. It can be square or oblong. It can be made of wood, a wood-based material such as MDF or HDF, stone, plastic, clay, ceramic, metal, etc. It is therefore possible with the invention to even lay a stone floor in a floating manner.

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

A first panel has already been laid. It has lower, projecting flanks on the side. In the projecting flank there is a groove-shaped recess. Either a cord (or rod) is radially elastic in this recess or in a recess within the recess can be deformed, inserted. The cord or rod preferably consists of a tendon made of a material with low elastic properties, which is encased by an elastic material such as rubber. Due to the tendon, the cord (the rod) does not change its length.A second panel is placed on one side, preferably its long side, at an angle, for example, and connected to the already installed panel by pivoting it into the common panel plane so that it is connected are connected in parallel to the common surface as well as perpendicular to the common joint by Formschiuss with each other ^■, depending on the embodiment, the joining can also take place by lowering the one panel over the other.

A second panel is placed obliquely on the longitudinal edge of the first laid panel and connected to it in the aforementioned manner by pivoting or lowering,

The other sides and usually the narrow sides of the panels are designed in such a way that locking elements engage one behind the other when one panel is lowered relative to the other. With the corresponding positioning of the latter two panels, there is already a locking mechanism in the lowered state, which the two panels are locked parallel to each other parallel to the common surface and perpendicular to the joint joint. Then the last two panels are pushed towards each other. A tongue of one panel gets into the groove of another panel. The two panels are thus also connected to one another vertically to the floor level. If necessary, the two last installed panels are pushed in the direction of the already installed panel, creating a classic tongue and groove connection. Due to the classic tongue and groove connection, the two panels are locked together vertically to the common surface by means of a form closure,

The protruding lip on the narrow side also has a previously described groove two panels, the rod-shaped or, for example in the form of a round rubber in-the channel are pushed cord-like element, the aforesaid through the groove and ^'the panel latter is formed, the dimensions are especially chosen so that between the round rubber and there is a play in the aforementioned channel, the pushing in of the rod-shaped or cord-shaped element is then particularly easy,

A tool is used which can be essentially cuboid in shape. A channel leads through the cuboidal body. The channel begins in particular on an end face, since this is typically not covered during use of the tool. The channel terminates at the bottom and indeed close to the other end face ^"soap of the parallelepiped body, the channel preferably has a rectangular cross-section, the cross-section is elongated, the longer sides extending from the bottom up. The tool is as installation aid for laying the panels used,

A spring protrudes from the underside of the tool, the spring is arranged below the channel, the spring tapers downwards (viewed from the tool) and / or towards the front. By “back” or “backwards” is meant in the direction of the end face, which is adjacent to the channel area that ends at the bottom,

In one embodiment, the spring comprises a first area lying in front, which is narrower than the subsequent rear area. The narrower area can be approximately twice as long as the thicker area. The front end of the spring can taper further in comparison to the narrow area in order to simplify the handling described below, namely to bring the spring of the laying bracket into the gap of a joint, which is separated by two in the aforementioned

Provided panels are brought together in such a way that providing a taper towards the rear means that the laying brackets can finally be pulled out of the joint again in an improved manner. The width of the spring is initially dimensioned outwards, in particular downwards or forwards, so that it can be inserted into the gap which at least remains on the surfaces of two panels brought together. If the spring tapers sufficiently downward, for example, the spring can be brought into the aforementioned gap from above by lowering it. The spring is correspondingly tapered toward the front, so this taper is inserted into the gap and so brought the spring between the panels, the wider portion of the spring is dimensioned such that ^'are thereby forced apart the two panels when the spring further between the Panels is inserted, by pushing apart the lacing or rod-like element is compressed, which was initially inserted into said groove,

A cord-like or rod-like element, preferably made of silicone, which preferably has an approximately rectangular cross-section, is inserted into the channel of the laying aid, preferably from the front side. The dimensions are such that the width of the cord-like element corresponds to the Width of the channel is matched, Furthermore, the height of the cord-like element is matched to the height of the channel. There is a little play between the cord-like element and the channel,

Due to the play, the cord-like element can be easily pushed through the tool and comes out again behind the spring. The dimensions of the rectangular cross sections are also selected such that the cord-like element will not twist within the channel.

If the cord-like element is pushed through the tool, the spring is inserted with a tapering area ^" between the first and the second panel into the gap between them. It is then, for example, at the beginning of the joint into which the cord-like element is introduced should, In one embodiment of the invention, the tool is provided with rollers in order to use the rollers to move the tool along the connecting joint without problems, otherwise the tool slides over the panels. There is a risk that the surface of the panels can be damaged.

If the laying aid is moved or moved along the joint that is between the panels and the spring is in the gap of the joint, the panels are first pushed apart by the wider area of the spring Groove inserted first rod or cord-shaped element, which for example has a round cross-section and is made of rubber (round rubber), pressed together. The wider area of the tongue is dimensioned such that the second cord-like element which protrudes from the underside of the laying loop easy to get into the connection joint. There is therefore preferably a small amount of play between the cord-like element and the pressed-apart panels in order to facilitate the introduction of the cord-like element into the connection joint. The cord-like element usually comes into the connecting joint from above.

If the tool is moved further along a joint, the connecting joint behind the laying bracket closes again a little due to the pressure caused by the first compressed cord or rod-like element. If the connecting joint closes again, this will be the case cord-like element fixed on the basis of a suitably provided dimensioning and / or shape by means of a form-fitting and / or friction-fitting between two panels,

In an advantageous embodiment, the tool has a roller at the rear end that rolls above the connecting joint. This ensures that a smooth transition between the panels and the cord-like element on the surface is achieved. In one embodiment, the laying aid ^{"is moved} until the first transverse joint is reached. An eccentric element is pushed laterally parallel to the transverse joint between the second and third panels. For this purpose, a gap or a channel-like recess is provided, into which the elongated, eccentric element is provided Element can be pushed in, It is pushed in so that the narrower side of the eccentric element (eccentric) borders on the two panels, The dimensions are dimensioned so that it can be easily pushed in, In one embodiment, a game between the eccentric ele - ment and the two panels remain,

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

The eccentric element can be bent at one end so that this bent end can be introduced into the lateral groove of one of the two panels, so that the position rotated by 90 ° is kept stable. Otherwise, ensure that the eccentric element is held in the twisted position in another way. So the eccentric element can be held manually.

Another cord-like element, which preferably has an approximately rectangular cross-section, is pressed from above into the groove, which is located on the transverse sides between the second and third panels. The transverse sides are in particular the narrow sides when the Panels are rectangular. Then the eccentric is turned back into the starting position, the groove on the narrow sides closes somewhat and the previously compressed cord or rod-like element, which is preferably a round rubber, relaxes. or cord-like element with the preferably rectangular cross section is now in the fixed state between the second and the third panel. The fixation may have been achieved by a form-fitting and / or frictional connection,

The eccentric is pulled out of the channel. The laying hilt continues until the next transverse joint is reached. In this way, the joints are provided with cord-like elements which are visible from above, ^'until the panels completely edged with the lace-up or stabarti- gene elements

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

In one embodiment, the laying aid has a recess on the side. The laying aid is moved during laying in such a way that the recess is flush with a joint that originates from a transverse side, in particular a narrow side. The recess serves to allow a cord-like or rod-like element to be inserted from the transverse side without any problem, so that it reaches all the way to the cord-like or rod-like element, which is brought into a joint by means of the laying brackets.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the spring underneath the laying aid is designed such that it narrows downward over its entire length in such a way that the spring can be inserted into the joint from above. This is particularly advantageous if Walls limit the lateral access to a joint,

In one embodiment of the invention, there is a taper or step-shaped narrowing downward in the groove that borders on the top of the two panels. The laying aid (the boat) with the tongue underneath is matched to this groove in such a way that the Ausei - pressing the two panels together is only achieved due to pressure is exercised in the lower area, i.e. in the area of the narrowing or rejuvenation,

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

In a further embodiment of the invention, there is a recess within the joint between two panels, specifically this recess is located above the aforementioned taper or step-shaped narrowing. If the cord-like element is introduced into the connecting joint, it fills this recess, in particular because of lugs protruding laterally on the cord-like or rod-like element. This results in an improved hold of the rod-like or cord-like element in the joint, in particular because of Formschiuss. The rod-like or cord-like element then sits particularly reliably between the two panels.

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

The rod or cord-like elements that are inserted on the transverse or narrow sides should have at least the covering dimension of the transverse joint in order to obtain a closed surface. The covering length can typically be exceeded by approx. 1 mm if the short side is approx. 20 cm long. Either the laying aid can have a suitable cutting device into which a rod-like or cord-like element can be inserted and cut exactly to the aforementioned dimension. For this purpose, the laying aid has, for example, a channel into which the rod-like or cord-like element in particular can be inserted with little play. The cross section of the channel is adapted to the rod or cord-like element. A cutting tool is designed such that it cuts the cord-like element so that the desired length is available, for example by pressing it down. This cutting tool can also be provided as a separate tool, separate from the laying aid.

The material of the laying aid can be a metal such as e.g. Aluminum, In order to be able to manufacture the laying aid inexpensively, it is preferably made of plastic by injection molding.

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

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

If square panels are used, it is not possible to distinguish between a longitudinal and a transverse joint. However, the laying procedure is ^' identical in principle, a rubber is inserted along a joint with the help of the laying aid. Joints running across this are pushed apart with the help of the eccentric and a cord-like element is inserted from above,

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

On the transverse sides or the joints that run transversely to the aforementioned joint, the adhesive can also be introduced manually using a suitable tool or a tube, Panels are advantageously used in which the narrow sides are connected to one another by lowering.First, during the lowering movement, there is a greater gap of, for example, 2.3 mm between two narrow sides of panels to be connected to one another, only at the very end does this gap close by 0.5 mm, This associated displacement movement of a few 1 Otei mm is used to bring a cord-like element pressed between a connection joint, which is provided on the surface. If, for example, a 2.5 mm gap is left on the surface of the type of panel, a cord or rod-like element of 2 mm in width can first be inserted here. Then one panel is lowered relative to the other, the spa mm from the original 2 is DA ^', for example by 0.5 mm with reduced. After all, the rod-like or cord-like is slightly pressed inside the joint,

The coupling elements provided can also be used on the long sides. In the same way the rubber can be attached here

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

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

FIG. 1 shows two panels 1 and 2 connected to one another. These are in particular panels for a laminate floor. The panels shown in the example are 8 mm thick. The panel 1 has a 2.5 mm deep groove on the side, which is 1.9 mm wide. This groove 3 comprises an upper edge 4 and a lower edge 5, the upper edge 4 ^'is 2.8 mm thick, the lower edge 5 is longer than the upper edge 4, Au ßerhαlb of the area of the actual groove 3, that is, in the area of the lower flank 5, which protrudes from the upper flank 4, there is a recess 6. The recess 6 is formed by an oblique boundary wall 7 and a perpendicular boundary wall 8, the oblique The extending wall opens in a funnel shape in the direction of the floor surface 9. A perpendicular angle to the floor surface is included in the present case. The inclined wall 7 serves to transition from the actual area of the groove 3 to the recess 6, the wall 8 extending perpendicular to the floor surface 9 forms a wall of the locking element 1 0, the locking element 1 0 is located at the open end of the projecting flank or, lip 5 of the panel 1, the locking element 1 0 is in the present case opposite. Bathing the recess 6 by 0.7 mm. The wall 8 forms a contact or locking surface which contributes to the locking of the panels 1 and 2 parallel to the floor surface 9 and perpendicular to the joint 11.

The panel 2 has a spring 1 2 on the side. When the two panels are connected, the tongue 1 2 is located in the groove 3, the thickness of the tongue 1 2 is adapted to the width of the groove so that there is no play up and down, the open end of the tongue 1 2 has an oblique boundary 1 3 on the lower side. There is a distance here from the adjacent flank 5 of the groove 3. The oblique boundary 1 3 means that the tongue 1 2 can easily be threaded into the groove 3 the recess 1 3 is suitable for introducing the spring 1 2 into the groove 3 by means of a rotary movement around the connecting joint 11,

Below the spring 1 2 a protruding nose 1 4 is provided. As a result, a recess 15 is formed, which can be produced by milling from the underside of the panel 2. ^" The wall 1 6, which forms the transition between the recess 1 5 and the nose 1 4, runs perpendicular to the floor surface. The wall 1 6 also forms a locking or contact surface which, in interaction with the ^limiting wall 8 the positive locking parallel to the floor causes the surface 9 and perpendicular to the joint 1 1. Since the contact surfaces or locking surfaces 8 and 1 6 run perpendicular to the floor surface 9, this results in a particularly secure interlocking locking between the two panels 1 and 2 compared to the prior art, as is known, for example, from the publication WO 97/47834 AI is. The positive locking due to the locking surfaces 8 and 16 is further improved in that the projecting lower flank 5 is sufficiently rigid. The lower flank 5 is sufficiently rigid if the panels 1 and 2 cannot be connected by pushing one another within a plane. The connection by moving in one plane is also known from the aforementioned publication WO 97/47834 AI.

In order to further improve the positive locking parallel to the floor surface and perpendicular to the connecting joint 11, the locking surfaces 8 and 16 can be undercut. A deviation of a few degrees from the vertical course is sufficient. The locking surface 8 is then inclined inwards towards the recess 6. Accordingly, the locking surface 1 6 is inclined inwards in the direction of the recess 15. In the connected state, the locking surfaces get caught 8 and 1 6 together, this embodiment is particularly advantageous if the connection is to be made possible by moving in one plane. In this case, for example, the protruding flank 5 can be bent down sufficiently to enable connection by shifting in one plane. In order to ensure in an improved manner that in the installed state there is no unwanted loosening by sliding apart in one plane, the aforementioned hooking of the locking surfaces 8 and 16 is particularly advantageous. The hooking together prevents, for example, the lower flank 5 from shaking due to vibrations can bend away

The nose 1 4 protruding below the spring is delimited towards the open end of the spring by an obliquely running wall 1 7. In the locked state, the delimiting wall 1 7 runs parallel to the wall 7, In the locked state, as shown in FIG. 1, there remains a play between the wall 17 and the wall 7. This can be a few tenths of a millimeter. In the present case, it is, for example, 0.5 mm.

If the locking surface 8 contacts the locking surface 16, the aforementioned play of 0.5 mm occurs between the delimiting wall 17 and the delimiting wall 7. At the same time, a gap remains on the surface of the floor, which is, for example, 2.5 mm thick.There is initially a play between the panels 1 and 2 in the locked state, which makes it possible to connect the panels to one another, although the locking surfaces 8 and 1 6 run vertically or at least almost vertically in the present example, even an undercut is possible. The play then typically amounts to 2/1 0 millimeters and more. How large the play should expediently depend in particular on the shape and dimension of the contact surfaces 8 and 1 6. A person skilled in the art will determine by a few trials in each individual case how large the play should at least be in order to enable the connection even with steep, vertical or undercut contact surfaces 8 and 16. For this reason it may also be expedient to use a much larger clearance of 1 mm, for example.

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

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

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

The lacing or rod-like element 8 in the present case consists of a silicone material. This is elastic and can therefore be compressed.

The gap into which the lacing or rod-like element 1 8 is introduced widens downward. In the present case, the expansion runs through the walls 19 and 20 in a funnel shape. The expansion can be minimal. A few tenths of a millimeter are sufficient. The widening means that the cord-like or rod-like element 18 extends into the area of the recess if it is somewhat wider than the gap. This ensures that the lacing or rod-like element 1 8 is firmly seated in the gap, an undesired loosening of the lacing or rod-like element. Element in the laid state is counteracted

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

The embodiment according to FIG. 2 differs from the embodiment as shown in FIG. 1, in particular by undercut locking or contact surfaces 8 and 16. This ensures particularly well that the panel 2 is separated from the panel 1 can not be solved if the panel 2 is pulled in the direction of arrow 21. This embodiment is particularly advantageous in the case of an elastic flank 5.

The embodiment according to FIG. 3 differs from the embodiments according to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 by providing a further cord-like or rod-like element 22 which is introduced between the locking surfaces 8 and 16. This has the effect that the play between the panels can be relatively large in relation to the embodiments according to FIGS. 1 and 2, without having to enlarge the cord-like or rod-like element 1 8 on the surface 9 of the panels 1 and 2. In addition, the cord-like or rod-like element 22 can compensate for shrinkage effects which can occur in particular if the panels are made from a wood-based material,

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

If panels are made of a wooden material, they shrink regularly at warm temperatures. If panels made of a wood-based material are exposed to damp rooms, they expand regularly. The embodiment according to FIG. 3 is therefore preferably provided in rooms which are heated regularly. One example would be a living room of a single family home. The lace-or rod-like element 22, which is located between the contact or locking surfaces 8 and 1 6, in cross section, regularly smaller dimensions in comparison with the lace-or rod-like ^'en element 1 8 on which the to the surface 9 Adjoining the floor. In the present case, the cross section of the lacing or rod-like element 22 is approximately square. The square is approximately 1 mm × 1 mm in size,

In the embodiment according to FIG. 4, the recess 6 has a further recess or recess 23. The recess 23 adjoins the locking surface 8. In the recess 23 there is a lacing or rod-like element 22 when laying, in the non-compressed state the lacing or rod-like element 22 partially protrudes from the further recess 23. If panel 2 is connected to panel 1, the nose 1 4 first presses the lacing or rod-like element 22 completely into the recess 23, as is indicated in FIG. 4.

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

In the embodiment according to FIG. 4, the length of the nose 1 2 is dimensioned such that the panel 2 can be brought into the position shown in FIG. 4 by a vertical lowering relative to the panel 1. The lowering movement is indicated by arrow 24. Then panel 2 is pushed along arrow 25 in the direction of panel 1. The path by which panel 2 is displaced is very small and can be limited to a few 1/10 millimeters. If the displacement distance is very short, the times required for laying can be reduced accordingly. This is particularly the case in relation to the prior art mentioned at the outset, for example in relation to the - State of the art, as known from the publication W097 / 47834 AI,

An embodiment in which a vertical lowering along the arrow 24 is possible in a first step is preferably used on the narrow sides of a panel with a rectangular surface. On the long sides, such a connection type is preferred in which the connection is performed by a rotational movement around the connection joint 1 1 succeeds. Such a prior art, in which the connection is brought about by a rotary movement, is evident, for example, from the publication WO01 / 48332 AI or from the publication US Pat. No. 4,426,820.

if panel 2 has been pushed along arrow 25 in the direction of panel 1, the situation shown in FIG. 5 is reached. A lacing or rod-like element 1 8 (finally) is then introduced into the connection joint 1 1 and the connection is completed. It may be sufficient to only move the panel 2 by one to two millimeters in order to change from the situation according to FIG. 4 to reach the situation according to FIG. 5, this distance is still relatively short compared to the distances required in the prior art, as is known for example from the document EP 00843763 B1.

in FIG. 6 it is indicated that the panel shown in FIG. 2 is locked with the panel 1 by a rotary movement around the connecting joint 11. In this case, the spring 12 can be relatively long in comparison to the embodiment according to FIG. so that a connection is no longer possible, which initially comprises a lowering movement according to arrow 24 (FIG. 4), then a relatively stable positive connection perpendicular to the floor surface is achieved in comparison to FIG. 4.

The lacing or rod-like element 22 can have a circular cross section. The diameter is, for example, approximately 2 mm. The recess 23, in which the cord-like or rod-like element 22 is partially located, typically has a comparable width, Im For example, the width would then be 2 mm, the depth could be half as large, it would then be 1 mm.

If a panel comprises two cord-like or rod-like elements in the aforementioned manner, then a cord-like or rod-like element 18 can be introduced particularly easily from the surface by first using a suitable tool to cut the gap on the surface against the elastic ones Properties of the lacing or rod-like element 22 is pressed apart. In the pressed-apart state, the width of the gap on the surface is in particular wider than the width of the lacing or rod-like element 1 8, which is to be brought into the gap, the lacing or rod-like Element 1 8 can then be inserted particularly easily. The tool is then removed and panel 1 is brought onto panel 2 due to the expansion of the cord-like or rod-like element 22. This shifting due to the expansion of the lacing or rod-like element 22 stops as soon as an equilibrium of forces is reached. No gap then remains on the surface.

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

FIG. 7 shows an advantageous embodiment of a lacing or rod-like element 18 which is introduced from the surface. In cross section, this lacing or rod-like element 18 has a kind of barbs 26 and 27 on both sides. In order to be able to compress the cord-like or rod-like element 18 particularly well laterally, a curved recess 28 is provided on the underside. Furthermore, the cord-like or rod-like element 1 8 can have a thread 29 on the inside, for example, in order to avoid stretching effects. The thread 29 therefore consists of a non-stretchable material which is encased in FIG. 7 by a compressible material such as silicone. The surface 30 of the cord-like or rod-like element 18 that is visible in the inserted state can be designed to be flat in order to be able to achieve a flat termination with the panel surface 9.

Figure 8 shows two panels 1 and 2, in which the tongue 1 2 of the panel 2 has been pushed into the groove 3 of the panel 1. The protruding edge 5 has at the top a rectangular in cross-section recess 30, the spring 1 2 has a rectangular ^'section recess 31 at the bottom. The two recesses 30 and 31 are of equal width, they are one above the other when the tongue 1 2 of the panel 2 has been pushed completely into the groove 3 of the panel 1, so that no gap remains at the joint joint 1 1, the recesses 30 and 31 form a channel into which a rod-like or cord-like element is pushed in order to lock panel 1 with panel 2 parallel to surface 9 and perpendicular to connecting joint 11. The movement of panel 2 in the direction of panel 1 is easy up to the position shown in FIG. 8 because no protruding locking element has to be overcome. In the state shown in FIG. 8, the movement of a panel 2 is relatively easy to panel 1 along the joint joint, since the panels are only locked perpendicular to surface 9,

Figure 9 differs from Figure 8 by a rod-like element 32, which is finally pushed into the channel formed by the recesses 30 and 31, the rod-like element 32 is at least almost as wide as the width of the recesses 30 and 31, so at the Surface 9 no gap occurs at the connecting joint 11. The material from which the rod-like or cord-like element 32 is made then preferably consists of a material which is not compressible or incompressible, so that a gap is formed on the surface 9 of the surface 9 To avoid joint 1 1, metal or a wooden material can therefore be used as a material.

If the panels 1 and 2 form a closed surface in the manner shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, it is, for example, from optical For reasons appropriate to also provide such coupling elements on the other sides that a closed surface is formed. In particular, it is expedient then to design narrow sides of a panel with a rectangular surface such that the final locking takes place by pushing in a rod 32 Longitudinal sides are then to be preferred in such coupling elements in which the connection takes place by means of a rotary movement about a connecting joint. There is then also no gap on the surface 9 between two panels 1 and 2, the joint 11 is therefore closed, in FIG. 1 0 this embodiment shown, the contact surfaces 8 and 1 6 run obliquely to enable a connection by means of a rotary movement despite a lack of play, the projecting flank 5 is preferably rigid to ensure a stable locking of the panels 1 and 2 in the installed state,

If the panels 1 and 2 are designed in an alternative embodiment to FIGS. 8 and 9 in such a way that a gap remains on the surface 9 at the connecting joint 11, then a rod-like or cord-like element 18 is expediently introduced therein, which is used for Example consists of silicone or rubber, expediently the rod-like or cord-like element 32 consists of Teflon or a material with comparable flexibility and smooth surface, then the rod-like or cord-like element 32 can be pushed into the channel formed by the recesses 30 and 31 relatively without any problems, especially if the narrow sides of a panel are designed in this way, because compared to the long sides there are lower frictional forces on the narrow sides, which counteract being pushed in

The rod-like element can be shaped differently in cross-section. This can be constricted. The cross-sections of the recesses 30 and 31 are then appropriately shaped so that undercut contact surfaces 8 and 33 as well as 34 and 35 are present. FIG. 11 illustrates the embodiment . In order not to have to pay attention to a special position when pushing in, the rod-shaped element has a circular cross-section. The recesses 30 and 31 are shaped correspondingly semicircular, as shown in FIG.

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

In Figure 1 1, the case is shown that the recesses 30 and 31 taper towards the opening, the associated rod-shaped element 32 has a constriction, resulting in undercut contact surfaces, this embodiment is particularly advantageous if the flanks 4 and 5 of the Groove 3 are the same length, because then they are relatively thin and therefore relatively flexible,

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

If connection elements according to FIG. 1 2 are not provided on all sides of a panel, it is again particularly advantageous to provide an embodiment in the case of a panel with a rectangular surface on the long sides, in which the connection is made by a rotating movement.

/ / - around a connecting joint 1 1. As an example, see the

Figure 1 0, which shows such coupling elements, then an embodiment according to Figure 1 2 is provided on the narrow sides. If such a panel is connected to another on the long sides by a rotary movement around the common connecting joint, it can also be connected to an adjacent, already laid panel via narrow sides without this panel having to be finally moved into the final position. For the final locking, only a rod 32 is then pushed into the channel, which is formed by the recesses 30 and 32.

The shape of the recesses 30, 31 and 37 and of the locking element 37 can differ from the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 2. All that matters is that the shapes are such that the desired glue-free locking is finally possible in the directions mentioned,

The invention succeeds in providing the following method for connecting two panels. A panel 1 is brought together with a panel 2 in such a way that recesses 30 and 31 form a channel, the coupling elements are designed so that the panels are then locked in a first direction, a rod-shaped element is then pushed into the channel, the coupling elements are such that the two panels are then locked both perpendicular to the common surface 9 and parallel to the common surface 9 and at the same time perpendicular to the connecting joint 11,

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

A rod-like or cord-like element in the sense of the invention is present in particular if the diameter is preferably at least 0.5 mm

/ is at least 1 mm. If the rod-like or cord-like element has a rectangular cross section, the length and width of the rectangle are preferably at least 0.5 mm, particularly preferably at least at least 1 mm. A single-element or cord-like element in the sense of the invention is also present in particular if it is an independent part, which in one embodiment as such can be glued to a panel. The physical properties do not change. Then, in one embodiment, such a rod-like or cord-like element is to be distinguished from the case in which a paste or the like is applied to a panel in a flowable state and the paste subsequently solidifies,

FIGS. 1 3 and 1 4 show embodiments which represent a further development of the embodiments shown in FIGS. 4 and 5,

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

In the present case, the spring 1 2 of the panel 2 is just short enough to connect the panel 2 to the panel 1 by lowering in the aforementioned manner. After the lowering, panel 2 would still be in

Have to be pushed in the direction of the panel 1 in order to

/ / showed situation to arrive, the spring 1 2 could have been longer, since a connection by slanting and subsequent pivoting on the long sides is basically unproblematic, A second panel 2a was placed obliquely on the longitudinal edge of the first laid panel 1 and connected to it in the aforementioned manner by pivoting it,

The narrow sides of panels 2 and 2a shown in FIG. 1 4 are designed such that locking elements 1 4 and 10 engage one behind the other when one panel 2a is suitably lowered relative to the other panel 2. If the two last-mentioned panels 2 and 2a are positioned accordingly, there is already a locking mechanism after the panel 2a has been lowered, which locks the two panels 2 and 2a parallel to the common surface 9 and perpendicular to the joint joint 1 1 the last two panels 2 and 2a pushed towards each other. The tongue 1 2 of the panel 2a comes into the groove 3 of the other panel 2, the two panels 2 and 2a are thus also connected to one another vertically to the floor level, as shown in FIG. 1 4, if necessary, the two last installed panels 2 and 2a pushed in the direction of the already installed panel 1, whereby a classic tongue and groove connection is also created between the panel 1 and the panels 2 and 2a. The classic tongue-and-groove connection locks the two panels 1 and 2 and 1 and 2a vertically to the common surface 9 by means of a positive connection.

The protruding lip 5 on the narrow side of the panel 2 also has the groove 6 described above with a recess 23. The recess 23 borders on the upwardly protruding locking element 10, which is located at the open end of the protruding lip or flank 5. When the two panels 2 and 2a are pushed together, the cord-shaped element 22, which has a circular cross section in FIG. 14, becomes , pushed into the channel, which is formed by the aforementioned recess 23 and the area above the last-mentioned panel 2a, the locking element 1 4 of the panel 2a, which extends downward, contributes to the provision of the channel into which the cord-shaped element 22 - as shown in section in FIG. 1 4 - has been pushed. The dimensions can be chosen such that a play remains between the cord-shaped element 22 and the aforementioned channel. The cord-shaped element 22 can then be pushed in particularly easily.

The tool 40 shown in FIG. 1 5a in a side view and in FIG. 1 5b in a front view is now used. The base body 41 is essentially cuboid _. designed. A channel 42 extends through the cuboid body 41. The channel 42 begins at an end face 43 (front), since this end face is typically not covered during use of the tool 40. It ends on the underside 44 and in fact near the other end face 45 (rear) of the cuboid body 41. The channel 42 has a rectangular cross section, as can be seen in FIG. 15 b. It preferably widens, for example, towards the end face 43 up to simplify the pushing in of a cord-shaped element 1 8, the longer sides 45 a of the rectangular cross section run parallel to the side walls of the tool 40, that is, from bottom to top. The dimensions of the cross section of the channel 42 are adapted to the cord-shaped element 18 in such a way that it will not twist within the channel 42. In the embodiment shown, the cord-shaped element 18 by 90 is practically not possible due to the adaptation ° twisted into channel 42,

The tool 40 is used as a laying aid for laying the panels 1, 2, 2a. With the support of the laying aid, the cord-like element 18 is brought into the joint 11, which is formed by the panels 1 and 2.

46 on the underside 44 of the tool 40 projects out of a spring, the ^'spring 46 is disposed below the channel 42, The spring 46 tapers downwardly (by the tool 41 as seen) as shown in the Figure 1 5b becomes clear. In one embodiment, the spring 46 comprises a first region 47 lying at the front, which is narrower than the subsequent rear region 48. As can be seen from FIG. 1 5a, the narrower region 47 is preferably longer, for example approximately twice as long as the thicker region Area 48 to make handling easy. The front end 49 of the spring 46 can taper further in comparison to the narrow region 47 in order to bring the spring of the laying bracket into the gap of a joint 11, which is present due to two panels 1, 2 brought together in the aforementioned manner. Providing a taper 50 of the spring 46 to the rear ensures in an improved manner that the laying bracket 41 can finally be pulled out of the joint 11 again, in particular without causing damage to the panels 1, 2.

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

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

A cord-like or rod-like element 18, preferably made of silicone, which preferably has an approximately rectangular or at least elongated cross section; is in channel 42 of the sealing aid fe 41 introduced and preferably from the front side 43, the dimensions are such that the width of the cord-like element 1 8 is matched to the width of the channel 42. Furthermore, the height of the cord-like element 1 8 is matched to the height of the channel 42. There is play between the cord-like element 1 8 and the channel 42, so that the cord-like element can be pushed through the channel 42.

The cord-like element 18 can be pushed through the tool due to the play and reappears behind the spring 46 close to the rear end wall 45 on the underside 44. The dimensions of the approximately rectangular cross sections are chosen so that the cord-like element 1 8 does not twist within the channel 42 when it is pushed or pulled through the channel 42,

If the cord-like element 1 8 is pushed through the tool 40, the spring 46 with a tapering area is inserted between the first panel 1 and the second panel 2 into the gap 11 between them. The laying aid 40 is then particularly at the beginning a joint 1 1 into which the cord-like element is to be inserted,

In one embodiment of the invention, the laying aid or the tool 40 is provided with rollers 51 and 52 in order to be able to move the tool 40 along the connecting joint 11 without problems using the rollers 51, 52. Otherwise, the tool 40 slides over the panels 1 and 2. There is a risk that the surface of the panels 1 and 2 can be damaged.

If the laying aid 40 is moved or moved along the joint 11, which is located between the panels 1 and 2, and the spring 46 is located in the gap of the joint 11, the panels become. 1 and 2 are first pressed apart by the wider area 48 of the spring 46. In the process, this is initially inserted into the groove or the recess 23. put first cord-shaped element 22 compressed. The wider area 48 of the spring 46 is dimensioned such that the second cord-like element 18, which protrudes from the underside 44 of the laying aid 40, is easily pressed into the connecting joint 11. The dimensions are preferably dimensioned such that there is little play remains between the cord-like element 1 8 and the pressed apart panels 1 and 2 in order to facilitate the insertion of the cord-like element 18 into the connecting joint 11. The cord-like element 1 8 thus usually comes from above into the connection joint 1 1.

If the tool 41 is moved further along a joint 1 1, the connecting joint 1 1 closes a little behind the laying aid 40 again due to the pressure which has been brought about by the first, compressed, cord-like element 22 closed again somewhat, the cord-like element 18 is held between two panels 1 and 2 on account of a suitably provided dimensioning and / or shape by means of a form-fitting and / or frictional connection.

In an advantageous embodiment, the tool 40 has a roller 51 at the rear end near the end wall 45, which rolls above the connecting joint. This ensures that there is a smooth transition between the panels 1 and 2 and the cord-like element 18 the surface is reached, this case is not shown in FIGS. 1 5 a and 1 5 b,

In one embodiment, the laying aid 40 is moved until a first transverse joint 60 is reached, as can be seen from FIG. 1 6, which shows a top view of panels 1, 2, 2a. Behind the laying loop 40 there is already a cord-like element 1 8 got into joint 1 1,

An eccentric member 70 which is shown in section in Figure 1 9 is pushed laterally parallel to the transverse joint 60 between the second panel 2 and the third panel 2a, this purpose is a gap or preferably ^'a channel-like recess 71 (as shown in Fig. 1 7) for panel 2 and / or provided in the panel 2a, into which the eccentric elongated element 70 can be pushed. The eccentric element 70 is pushed in such that the narrower side of the eccentric element (eccentric) is adjacent to the two panels 2 and 2a. The dimensions are such that it can be easily pushed in. In one embodiment, a play may remain between the eccentric element 70 and the two panels 2 and 2a for support.

If the eccentric element 70 has been pushed between the two panels, the eccentric element 70 is rotated by approximately 90 ° with the aid of a lever 73 shown in FIG. 1 9, as indicated by the arrow 72 in FIG. As a result, the gap 60 shown in FIG. 1 6 widens, which is located on the surface on the transverse sides between the second panel 2 and the third panel 2a. As a result of the 90 ° rotation, the cord-like element 22, which was previously pushed into the channel provided for this purpose within the transverse joint 60, is compressed. The position of the eccentric element rotated by 90 ° is shown in FIG.

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

In order to facilitate the introduction of the eccentric element 70 into the channel 71 provided for this purpose or a sufficiently wide gap, this preferably has a taper 75. This tapered region is first introduced into the channel 71 provided for this purpose or the sufficiently wide slot provided for this purpose.

Another cord-like element 18, which preferably has an approximately rectangular or elongated cross-section, can come from above. Mend be pressed into the gap, which is located on the transverse side 60 between the second panel 2 and the third panel 2a. Alternatively, it can be pushed in from the side, especially since the dimensions in this position are such that the cord-like element 18 is located with play in the joint, as is illustrated in FIG.

The transverse side 60 is in particular a narrow side if the panels 1, 2, 2a have a rectangular surface,

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

The eccentric 70 is then pulled out of the channel 71 or a corresponding gap. The laying aid 40 is moved further until the next transverse joint is reached. In this way, the joints 11, 60 (or column) with cord-like elements 1 8 provided, which are visible from above, until the panels 1, 2, 2a are completely surrounded by the lacing or rod-like elements 1 8,

In one embodiment, the laying aid 40 has a recess on the side. The laying aid 40 is moved during the laying in such a way that the recess is flush with a joint that extends from a transverse side '60, in particular special one comes from a narrow side. The recess serves to allow a cord-like or rod-like element to be inserted without problems from the transverse side 60 in such a way that it reaches as far as the cord-like or rod-like element 1 8, which is brought into a joint 11 by means of the laying aid.

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

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

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

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

In one embodiment of the invention, the laying aid 40 has a relatively wide roller 80 on an upper or end face, which is in particular wider than the wheels or rollers 51 and 52, which is therefore preferably significantly wider than the rollers on the underside. This roller 80 on the top or front side serves to finally roll over the connecting joint 1 1, 60 again. If a rod-like or cord-like element 1 8 protrudes a little undesirably from the joint 1 1, 60, it can be improved, the rollers 52 and 80 in the laying aid 40, which serves to exert pressure on the cord-like element 1 8 to bring this correctly into the joint 1 1, 60 are preferably made of a hard material. A metal is particularly suitable.

The rollers 51, 52 on the bottom of the laying aid 40 preferably protrude so far that the distance between the bottom of the laying aid and the panels 1, 2 is very small. In one embodiment, for example, the distance can be only a few tenths of a millimeter, for example 2/1 mm. In this case, it is advantageous to also manufacture front rollers 51 of the laying aid 40, which only serve as guides, from a hard material. In any case, the material should be so little compressible that the distance of 1/10 to 2/1 0 mm between the bottom of the laying bracket 40 and the surface 9 of the panels 1, 2 is maintained ^"

FIG. 20 shows a further embodiment of the invention, namely panels 2 and 2a, in which at least one side can be connected to one another by lowering. This means that a Panel 2a can be held parallel to already installed panel 2 and can be lowered for the purpose of connecting, the parallel position can be maintained during the lowering, if panel 2a has been lowered so that it is in the same plane as panel 2, a nose 1 4 projecting downward is then located in an upwardly open recess 6. The panels 2 and 2a are then locked to one another by means of a form closure parallel to the surface 9 and perpendicular to the joint. The locking element directed upwards at the end of the lower protruding lip 5 has then been bent outwards somewhat, which can in particular be favored by a bevel 90 which is advantageously located below the locking element.

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

The coupling elements according to Figure 20 can be used on all sides. Since the locking in the vertical direction is relatively weak, it is preferable to use these coupling elements, which comprise a spring 12 protruding relatively short into the groove 3, only on transverse sides 60.

FIG. 21 shows an embodiment of the invention, which is to be preferred if only a rod-like or cord-like element 18 is brought from the top 9 between two panels 1 and 2, if the cord-like element is not between the two panels 1 and 2 in shown way brought, the two panels are preferably locked together in such a way that a little play remains,

The panels 1 and 2 shown in FIG. 21 are designed in such a way that a gap remains at the top of the joint 11. The gap is preferably a little less wide (a few tenths of a millimeter) than the rod-like or cord-like element 1 8. If the rod-like or cord-like element is pressed into the gap from above, it then gets slightly compressed into the spa, thereby ensures that the top is sealed watertight. This prevents moisture problems.

In the embodiment shown, the gap shown in FIG. 21 extends to the top of the spring 1 2. For production reasons, this is expedient, but is not necessary for the implementation of the invention.

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

A rod-like or cord-like element 18, as can be used in the panels 1 and 2 shown in FIG. 21, is shown in section in FIGS. 22 and 23. It has at least one preferably two recesses 96 on the side, The recesses 96 interact with the protruding lugs 95 in such a way that the desired shape is achieved in this way, On the underside of the rigid or cord-like element 1 8 there is preferably a groove 97. As a result, the rod-like or cord-like element 1 8 has two legs that can be easily pressed together sufficiently. It is then particularly simple to use the rod-like or cord-like element Push element 1 8 into the gap provided at joint 1 1,

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

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

The embodiment shown in FIG. 23 is preferred. Here, an upper region 99 of the rod-like or cord-like element 18 consists of a comparatively soft, elastic material such as, for example, a soft PVC material, if the lower region 100 consists of a relatively hard material such as rigid PVC The area made of harder material ensures particularly well that a rod-like or cord-like element is properly and reliably seated between two panels 1 and 2. The part consisting of a relatively soft area 99 ensures that the rod-like or cord-like element 1 8 is also pressed together here can. This ensures that the rod-like or cord-like element 1 8 can get completely into the gap between two panels 1 and 2, even if it is somewhat narrower. The upper region 99 is then advantageously lightly pressed between the two panels in order to prevent penetration To protect moisture, dust etc.

Figure 24 shows a main body 201 together with a ^"cover 202 forms a panel, specifically, the recess 200 is provided for the cable bushing, Figure 25 shows a rectangular profile, ^/ WEL ches used in stages. FIG. 24 shows two panels 1 and 2, which are connected to a further panel. The further panel is formed by a base body 201 and a cover 202. The cover 202 is positively connected to the base body 201. The connections between the panels without the cord-like elements 22 and 1 8 are shown in FIG. 24. In the fully installed state, cord-like elements 1 8, 22 are to be provided in the illustrated embodiment, as can be seen from FIG.

If the cover ice 202 has been placed on the base body 201, a channel-like cavity 200 is provided for the passage of cables or hoses. The cover 202 has latching means 203 on its underside in order to be able to fix the cover 202 to the base body 201 in a form-fitting manner.

A plurality of base bodies 201 are preferably connected to one another at the narrow or end faces (not shown in FIG. 24) via tongue-and-groove connections in such a way that the respective recesses 200 provide a common channel or a common groove. this groove, cables, hoses are placed in it, a cover 202 can be provided on the top with plugs or sockets which are connected to the cables, sockets can thus be provided in the middle of a room without any complicated installation,

The cover 202 has been placed on the base body 201 such that it forms a common flat surface 9 with the base body 201 and the adjoining panels 1 and 2. The surface is provided with knobs 204 above the cover 202. Adjacent to this, the basic body 201 has nubs 205,

If the cover shown in FIG. 24 is detached from the base body, the recess 200 is openly accessible from one side, namely from the surface 9. Access to the recess 200 is at the surface limited by protruding, rounded knobs 205.

In the recess 200 there are protruding protrusions 206, on which the cover 202 rests in the closed state, this divides the recess, sensitive cables can be accommodated in a cut-off 207 separated therefrom, in a particularly protected manner, separated from other hoses and cables, each serving here Elevation 206 not only as a support for the cover 202 but also as a partition.

In one embodiment, cables are provided for the power supply in separate areas. Otherwise, heating or cooling elements are led through the recess 200,

The base body 201 and the cover 202 are preferably made of aluminum. The panels 1 and 2 are of the same thickness as the base body 201. The lid 202 can in turn be an advertising medium, a doormat, a cooling or heating element or a lighting element.

FIG. 25 shows a component 252, which is provided for the formation of steps. This comprises an undercut recess 251 on the underside, which can also serve for the passage of cables. With the aid of locking elements 1 2, 1 4, this is done with panels 1, 2 connected, the top 9 is provided with knobs 253 in order to provide a non-slip surface in the area of a step, bores 254 can be provided on the side in order to be able to screw the component 252 onto a step-shaped base,

Claims

Expectations

1 . Components comprising panels (1, 2, 2a) and / or rod-like or cord-like elements or hollow bodies for the provision of a covering, in particular for a floor.

2, components designed according to claim 1 such that in the assembled state they provide channel-like cavities (200) for the passage of cables or hoses.

3, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels which are formed from a base body (201), in particular for the passage of cables or hoses, and a cover (202), the cover, in particular, being able to be connected to the base body in a form-fitting manner.

4. Components according to one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one base body (201) for the passage of cables or hoses, which can be connected to further panels, in particular via tongue and groove connections (3, 1 2), and which extends from the common surface and / or the common

Bottom-seen from here has an elongated recess (200) for the passage of cables or hoses.

5. Components according to the preceding claim with a blanket! (202) with which a recess (200) in one

Basic body (201) for the passage of cables or hoses can be closed, - ^" -

6. Components according to one of the preceding claims comprising a lid for closing a recess which

Implementation of cables or hoses is provided, wherein the cover has latching means (203) on the underside, by means of which the cover (202) can be positively attached to at least one component (201),

Components according to one of the preceding claims comprising at least two base bodies with recesses for the passage of cables or hoses, the base bodies being able to be connected to one another in particular by means of a tongue and groove connection in such a way that the recesses form a common channel or groove

Provide cables or hoses.

, Components according to one of the preceding claims, comprising recesses and cables located in the recesses for conducting electrical current,

, Components according to one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one cover (202) which is provided on the top with plugs, sockets and / or at least one hole and / or which is designed as a wiper, lighting element, heating or cooling element and / or as an advertising panel,

0, Components according to one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one cover which can be placed on a base body such that it then forms a common flat surface (9) with the base body, the surface formed in particular provided with knobs (204, 205) is

1 1, components according to one of the preceding claims with a base body which has a recess for the passage of cables or hoses, which extends from one end face of the base body to the opposite end face of the base body,

2. Components according to one of the preceding claims with a basic body which has a recess for the passage of cables or hoses, the recess being openly accessible from one side and access to the recess at the surface being limited by protruding rounded knobs (205) ,

3. Components according to one of the preceding claims with a base body which has a recess for the passage of cables or hoses, the recess having projecting knobs on the inside which cooperate with latching means (203) of a cover so that the cover thereby snaps into place can be connected to the base body.

4, components according to one of the preceding claims with a base body having a recess for the passage of cables or hoses and a ceiling! for closing the recess, the recess comprising protruding elevations (206) on which the cover rests in the closed state of the recess.

5, components according to one of the preceding claims with a base body which has a recess for the passage of cables or hoses and a cover for closing the recess, the recess being accessible from the outside and expanding towards the outside,

1 6, components according to one of the preceding claims with a base body which has a recess for the passage of cables or hoses, the recess being accessible from the outside and having an undercut (207),

1 7, components according to one of the preceding claims with a base body (201) which has a recess (200) for the passage of cables or hoses, the recess is accessible from the outside and has an undercut (207) which is separated from a further recess by a protruding elevation (206) on which a cover rests in the closed state of the recess.

8. Components according to one of the preceding claims with a base body which is designed as a heating or cooling element or contains heating or cooling elements.

9, components according to one of the preceding claims with a base body (201) consisting of metal, in particular aluminum and / or a cover (202) consisting of metal, in particular aluminum,

0, Components according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a base body (201) which has a recess (200) for the passage of cables or hoses, and also comprising panels (1, 2) made of a wood-based material, the thickness of the panels (1, 2) is equal to the thickness of the base body (201),

1, components according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a base body (201) which has a recess for the passage of cables or hoses, which is divided into at least two regions (200, 207) by a partition (206),

2, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising a base body (201) having a recess (200, 207) for the passage of cables or hoses, and comprising panels made of a wood-based material. (1, 2), the base body (201) being able to be connected to the panels (1, 2) by coupling elements (3, 1 2, 6, 1 4),

23, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising a step-shaped element. (252) formed from one Surface area and a vertically adjacent side area which can be connected to panels (1, 2) via coupling elements (12, 1 4), the surface area preferably having knobs 253 on its surface 9 and / or the side area preferably with bores

(254) is provided, wherein the step-shaped element (252) can have a recess (251) on the underside,

24. Components according to one of the preceding claims with coupling elements by means of which two components can be connected to one another in a form-fitting manner both perpendicular to the common surface and parallel to the common surface and at the same time perpendicular to the common joint, the components being panels and / or base body with recesses for carrying out of cables or hoses.

25. Components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a) and one provided with a recess for the passage of cables or hoses

Main body, which have coupling elements (3, 1 2, 6, 14) that are made such that panels (1, 2, 2a) and / or main body are both perpendicular to the joint (1 1) and parallel to the surface (9) as well can be connected perpendicular to the common surface (9) by means of a form closure,

marked by

a lacing or rod-like element (1 8, 22, 32) which is located between the panels (1, 2, 2a) and / or the base body in an associated recess (1 1, 23),

26, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a), in which the lacing or rod-like element (1 8, 22, 32) wider than the width of the associated _. Recess (1 1, 23), in particular if the panels (1, 2, 2a) are connected to one another,

27. Components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a), in which the lacing or rod-like

Element (1 8, 22, 32) consists of a compressible material, in particular of Teflon, silicone or rubber.

28. Components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a), in which the panels (1, 2, 2a) in particular including the coupling elements (3, 1 2, 6, 14, 36, 37) entirely or consist predominantly of a ceramic, stone, plastic, hoiz and / or of a wood material,

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

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

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

32, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a) and / or a base body provided with a recess for the passage of cables or hoses and a lace separated from the panels (1, 2, 2a) or the base body - Or rod-like element (1 8, 22, 32), which in the associated recess (23, 1 1, 60) Press fitting and / or form-fitting and / or by force locking,

3, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a) and / or one with a recess for

Carrying out cables or hoses with a basic body with a play that occurs with two interconnected panels (1, 2, 2a) and / or basic body at least when there are no lacing or rod-like elements (1 8, 22, 32) between the panels (1, 2, 2a) and / or

Basic bodies are,

34. Components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a) and / or base body with vertical or undercut contact surfaces (8, 16, 33, 34, 35) of coupling elements which connect parallel to the surface (9) and perpendicular to the joint (1 1) or perpendicular to the surface (9).

35, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a) and / or base body with a groove (3) as a coupling element which has a rigid or elastic lower flank (5), in particular relative to the upper flank (4th ) the groove protrudes,

36, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a) and / or base body with a recess accessible from the top (9) of the panels and / or base body, which in the connected state of panels and / or base body the connecting joint (1 1,

60) occurs and which has a taper or constriction (76, 95) in its interior, which is in particular stepped,

37, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a) and / or basic body with one of the Top side (9) of the panels and / or base body accessible recess, which occurs in the connected state of two panels and / or base body at the connecting joint (1 1, 60) and which has an expansion (77) in its interior, which is preferred is located above or below a taper or constriction (76, 95).

, Components according to one of the preceding claims, comprising panels (1, 2, 2a) and / or base body, in which the cord-like or rod-like element on the surface (9) of the panels (1, 2,

2a) and / or base body is pressed or brought into the recess (1 1, 60),

, Components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a) and / or base body, in which the

Coupling elements (3, 1 2, 6, 1 4) are preferably provided on the long sides of the panels and / or base body (1, 2, 2a) in such a way that these components, i.e. the panels (1, 2, 2a) and / or the or the base body can be connected to one another only by a rotary movement around the common connecting joint (1 1).

, Components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a) and / or base body, in which the coupling elements (3, 1 2, 6, 1 4) preferably on the narrow sides of the panels (1, 2, 2a) and / or the base body is such that it can be connected by moving it in one plane and / or by vertically lowering a panel (2a) and / or base body relative to the surface (9) of a second panel (2) and / or base body ,

1, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a) and / or base body, in which the cord-like or rod-like element (1 8, 22, 32) at least 0.5, preferably at least 2 mm and / or maximum 1 0 mm, preferably 5 mm is wide

2, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a) and / or base body, in which the lacing or rod-like element (1 8, 22, 32) is located between two contact surfaces (8, 1 6), which cause locking parallel to the common surface (9) and perpendicular to the common connecting joint (1 1),

3, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a) and / or base body, in which the lacing or rod-like element (1 8, 22, 32) is in a recess (23) and partially from it protrudes,

44. Components according to the preceding claim, in which the recess (23) borders on a contact surface (8) which serves to connect two panels and / or base body (s), in particular parallel to the common surface (9).

45, components according to. one of the preceding claims comprising a lacing or rod-like element (1 8, 22, 32), in which the lacing or rod-like element (1 8, 22, 32) has a rectangular or substantially rectangular or elongated cross section,

46, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising a lacing or rod-like element (1 8, 22, 32), in which the lacing or rod-like element (1 8, 22, 32) is laterally hook-shaped,

47, Components according to one of the preceding claims ^' comprising a lacing or rod-like element (1 8, 22, 32), in which the lacing or rod-like element (1 8, 22, 32) comprises a thread which is connected to compressible material in fact is encased in particular with compressible material,

, Components according to one of the preceding claims comprising a cord or rod-like element (1 8), in which the cord or rod-like element (1 8) an approximately cruciform

Has a cross section, which is preferably elongated,

Has a cross section which tapers towards one side and which is preferably elongated,

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

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

Has region (99) made of relatively soft material and a lower region (100) made of relatively hard material,

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

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

4, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a) and / or base body, in which the cord-like or rod-like element (1 8, 22, 32) on a panel and / or a base body is invulnerated and contacts a second panel and / or a second base body when the first and second panels or base bodies are connected to one another,

55, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a) and / or base bodies which are 6 to 1 5 mm thick and / or 1 00 to 2000 mm long and / or 50 to 2000 mm wide,

56, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, 2a) and / or base body with a rod-shaped element (32) which can be inserted into a recess (30, 31) between two panels and / or base body such that then there is a positive locking between the two panels or base body (s),

57, components according to the preceding claim, in which the narrow sides of two panels (1, 2, 2a) and / or base body (s) with a rectangular surface or transverse sides (60) comprise the insertable cord or rod-shaped element,

58, components according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising panels (1, 2, 2a) and / or base body, in which one of the common surface (9) forth visible lace-up or ^'rod-like element (1 8) in a recess (1 1 ) is introduced ^: which has a widening (1 9, 20, 77) below the surface (9),

59, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising panels (1, 2, - 2a) and / or base body with at least two lacing or rod-like elements (1 8, 22, 32), which between two interconnected panels (1, 2, 2a) and / or base body (s) are provided.

0. Components according to the preceding claim, in which the lower-lying cord or rod-like element (22) seen from the surface (9) consists of a material which is compared to the material from which the higher-lying cord or rod-like element ( 1 8), has a greater restoring force.

1 . Components according to the preceding claim, in which the lower-lying lacing or rod-like element (22) seen from the surface (9) has a smaller diameter or in

Has smaller dimensions in relation to the cross-section than the higher-lying lacing or rod-like element (1 8),

62. Components according to one of the preceding claims comprising interconnected panels (1, 2, 2a) and / or

, Body,

63. Components according to one of the preceding claims comprising a laying aid with which lace or rod-like elements (1 8, 22, 32) can be brought between two panels (1, 2, 2a) and / or base body or which is used to to bring cord or rod-like elements (1 8, 22, 32) between two panels (1, 2, 2a).

64. Components ^' according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a laying aid (40) which comprises a channel (42) with an in particular elongated cross section which leads through the laying aid (40),

- 65. Components according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a laying bracket (40) with a channel (42) which runs from an end wall (43) to the underside (44) of the component.

66, components according to any one of the preceding claims comprising a laying handle (40) which on the underside (44) a protruding Has spring (46), which tapers in particular downwards, forwards and / or backwards,

67. Component according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a laying aid (40) which has a projecting spring (46) on the underside (44) and a channel (42) passing through the component, which on the underside (44) behind ^" the Spring (46) ends.

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

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

70, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising a laying aid (40) which comprises a roller (52) on its underside (44) which is arranged in front of a spring (46) projecting on the underside (44),

71, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising a laying handle (40) which comprises a roller (52) on its upper side.

72, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising a laying aid (40) which comprises on its underside a spring (46) which can thus be inserted between two panels (1, 2, 2a) and / or base body which have been connected to one another, that the panels (1, 2, 2a.) and / or Basic bodies are pressed apart,

73, components according to the preceding claim with a laying bracket (40), in which the spring (46) can be inserted and / or removed between two panels (1, 2, 2a) and / or base body that have been connected to one another such that a Distance remains at the top (9) between the panels (1, 2, 2a) or base body and the spring (46),

74, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising a laying bracket (40) which has a recess laterally adjacent to its underside (44).

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

76, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising a cutting tool with the lacing or rod-like elements

(1 8) can be cut, in particular in such a way that the lacing or rod-like elements after cutting are at least as long as a transverse side (60) or a narrow side of the panels (1, 2, 2a) and / or base body used.

77, components according to one of the preceding claims comprising a right-angled profile (250), in particular with recesses (251) for a cable duct and preferably with coupling elements (1 2, 1 4) for connecting the profile to panels and / or base bodies,

78. Components according to one of the preceding claims comprising

// a right-angled profile, with knobs on one surface. 79, components according to the preceding claim, wherein the cutting tool is such that the lacing or rod-like elements after cutting the length of a transverse side (60) or a narrow side of used panels (1, 2, 2a) and / or base body by a maximum of 2, preferably by a maximum of 1 mm,

80, covering, in particular floor covering, formed from components (1, 2, 2a, 1 8, 22, 32) according to one of the preceding claims,

81. Covering according to the preceding claim, in which each panel and / or base body is framed with lacing or rod-like elements (1 8) from the common surface (9),

82. Covering according to one of the preceding claims with a surface area of at least 30 square meters, preferably of at least 50 square meters.