CN103547749A - Vertical connection systems and related surface covering systems - Google Patents

Abstract

A vertical joint system (10) for substrates (12) is formed with joints Jm and Jf which engaged by relative motion in a direction perpendicular to major surfaces (14) and (16) of the substrate (12). The joints are configured to enable relative rotation of up to (3) degrees (i.e. clockwise or anticlockwise) while maintaining engagement of the joints. The joints Jm and Jf are further configured to form two locking planes (18, 20) one on each of the inner and outer most sides of the joint. Engagement about the locking planes (18, 20) is provided by transverse outward extending surfaces Cm1, Cm2, Cf1 and Cf2. The surface Cf1 and Cf2 overhang the surfaces Cm1 and Cm2. At least one surface in each pair of engaging surfaces: Cf1 and Cm1; and, Cf2 and Cm2 is smoothly curved. The joints Jm and Jf can be further arranged to provide a third locking plane (74) parallel to and between the locking planes (18, 20). The joints are disengaged by combination of a downward rotation of one joint relative the other then application of a downward force. By virtue of these features flooring with the joint system can be laid on sub-surfaces which have undulations greater than current world industry standards. Additionally replacement of damaged substrates is possible by vertical lifting of damaged substrates without the need to pull up excess flooring from the closest wall to the damaged substrates.

Description

Vertical connection systems and related surface covering systems

technical field

The invention relates to a longitudinal connection system of substrates, which can connect the substrates side by side. Such substrates include, but are not limited to, wood planks or panels that can be used as floor, wall or ceiling coverings. The invention also relates to the use of a substrate surface covering system integrated with the attachment system.

Background technique

Snap-on floor coverings are made up of several base plates, each with the same connection system that facilitates the joining of adjacent base plates. These connection systems usually consist of first and second headers mounted on opposite sides of the substrate. The reason why the connectors are configured this way is that a first connector on one substrate can engage a second connector on an adjacent substrate. Joints rely on specific configurations of tongues, grooves, protrusions, grooves and barbs to achieve an interlocking engagement.

Floor joint systems can generally be classified as either horizontal (or "tiled") joint systems or vertical joint systems. Horizontal joint systems require movement in a plane generally parallel to the major plane containing the floor substrates (ie the horizontal plane) to achieve interengagement with joints on adjacent substrates. However, longitudinal connection systems require movement and/or application of force in a plane perpendicular to the major faces of the substrates to effect joint engagement. We must therefore realize that the word "longitudinal" in the context of this type of connection system, as used in this specification, does not mean absolutely perpendicular, but perpendicular to the main faces of the substrate. When the substrate is placed on a horizontal plane, then "longitudinal" in this context also means absolutely vertical. But those skilled in the technique understand that the substrate can be placed elsewhere, such as on a vertical surface such as a standing wall, or on an inclined surface such as a sloped ceiling. In these cases, the longitudinal connection system means that it operates/engages by movement and/or application of force in a plane perpendicular to the main faces of the substrates.

In addition, there is a "quasi" longitudinal connection system, which, although its manufacturer may claim to be a longitudinal system, initially requires one joint to be inserted transversely into the other, and then relative to the other panel Rotate one of the panels so that the joints of the adjacent panels intermesh so that their respective major faces are in the same plane.

The above background art reference content does not mean to admit that this technology is part of common knowledge known by ordinary professional and technical personnel. It is also not intended that the above references limit the application of the connection system to the applications disclosed herein.

Contents of the invention

The present invention describes a longitudinal connection system for substrates in various aspects. The longitudinal connection system facilitates the provision of surface covering systems for easy installation and especially for repairs. For this reason, when repairing a damaged baseplate, the damaged baseplate can be lifted vertically without having to pull the excess floor from the wall closest to the damaged baseplate.

The present invention also introduces the longitudinal connection system of the substrates from other aspects, and the substrates engaged with each other can rotate forward or reverse (ie, clockwise or counterclockwise) while maintaining the meshing state.

In one aspect, there is provided a substrate longitudinal connection system having two opposing surfaces, a first major face and a second major face, constituted as follows:

First and second asymmetric joints extending along opposite sides of the substrate, the first and second joints being configured to allow two substrates with the same connection system to intermesh for mating perpendicular to the major face the force applied in the direction;

The first and second joints are each provided with two laterally spaced apart laterally extending surfaces configured such that the first joint of the first substrate and the second joint of the second substrate are engaged together, simultaneously according to the two joints of the second joint. two laterally extending surfaces, determining the relative positions of the two laterally extending surfaces of the first joint to form respective first and second locking planes at the innermost and outermost sides of each joint. Each locking plane is parallel to the direction of engagement, wherein laterally extending surfaces associated with each locking plane extend laterally toward each other from opposite sides of the locking planes, and the laterally extending surfaces of the second joint are overhanging the first joint. A laterally extending surface of the joint such that disengagement is inhibited in the event of engagement of the joint, wherein at least one of the transversely extending surfaces associated with each locking plane has a curved profile.

In one embodiment, the laterally extending surface is configured to allow the two engaged substrates to rotate relative to each other by at most 3° while maintaining the engaged state of the two substrates.

In one embodiment, the laterally extending surface is configured so that one of the engaged substrates can rotate 7° to 10° relative to the other substrate toward the plane where the substrates are placed, while maintaining the engaged state of the two substrates.

In one embodiment, at least one side of each locking plane is voided by taking advantage of the asymmetrical configuration of the first and second joints.

In one embodiment, the profile of one or more laterally extending surfaces associated with at least one locking plane is a continuous convex curve.

In one embodiment, the profile of one of the laterally extending surfaces of at least one locking plane is a continuous convex curve, and the profile of the other laterally extending surface is constituted by one or more straight lines.

In one embodiment, the profile of each laterally extending surface is a continuous convex curve.

In one embodiment, the contours of the two or more laterally extending surfaces are different continuous convex curves.

In one embodiment, each joint consists of a protrusion (extending toward engagement) and an adjacent groove (formed along each side of the substrate); the laterally extending face is on the outermost surface of each protrusion and formed on the innermost surface of each groove.

In one embodiment, the protrusion of the first joint has a bulbous profile with a narrowed neck width, wherein a portion of the transversely extending surface on the protrusion of the first joint is adjacent to the outermost side of the neck.

In one embodiment, the groove profile of the second joint is bulbous with a narrowed neck width, wherein a portion of the laterally extending surface of the groove of the second joint is adjacent to the outermost side of the neck.

In one embodiment, a plane contains the straight line of the shortest distance of the necks or each neck is inclined with respect to the main plane.

In one embodiment, a plane contains the straight line of the shortest distance of the necks or each neck is in a plane inclined relative to the main face.

In one embodiment, the shortest straight lines running through each neck are parallel to each other.

In one embodiment, the shortest distance lines through each neck are collinear.

In one embodiment, each transversely extending surface forms part of a respective curved surface.

In one embodiment, the laterally extending surfaces of the first and second joints form a third laterally extending surface, the relative position of which forms a third locking plane between the first and second locking planes. plane, wherein the third laterally extending face associated with the third locking plane extends transversely from the opposite face of the third locking plane to each other, the third laterally extending face of the second joint is connected to the third laterally extending face of the first joint The laterally extending face is aligned with or overhangs it.

In one embodiment, the first and second connectors are arranged to engage with each other to form a third locking plane, thereby preventing separation of the engaged joints in a direction parallel to the engaging direction, and the third locking plane is the same as the first locking plane. The first and second locking planes are parallel to and between them.

In one embodiment, the first and second joints each define a third laterally extending surface, wherein in the engaged joint the third laterally extending surface extends to opposite sides of the third locking plane.

In a second aspect, there is provided a substrate longitudinal connection system having two opposite sides, a first major face and a second major face, the connection system being constituted as follows:

First and second asymmetric joints extending along opposite sides of the substrate, the first and second joints being configured to allow two substrates with the same connection system to intermesh for mating perpendicular to the major face the force applied in the direction;

The first and second connectors each have two laterally spaced apart curved surfaces configured to enable the first connector of one substrate to engage the second connector of a second substrate, and the first connector of the first connector The two curved faces engage the two curved faces of the second fitting on the innermost and outermost sides of each fitting to form respective first and second locking planes, each of which independently contain engaged fittings Separated towards a direction parallel to the direction of engagement, each locking plane is oriented parallel to the direction of engagement, wherein the curved surfaces associated with each locking plane are located on either side of the locking plane.

In one embodiment, the curved surface is configured to allow the two engaged substrates to rotate relative to each other by at most 3° while maintaining the engaged state of the two substrates.

In one embodiment, the curved surface is configured so that one of the engaged substrates can rotate 7° to 10° relative to the other substrate in the direction of the plane where the substrates are placed, while maintaining the engaged state of the two substrates.

In one embodiment, each joint includes a third curved surface, the respective third curved surfaces being arranged to engage each other to form a third locking plane between the first and second locking planes.

In one embodiment, at least one side of each locking plane is voided by taking advantage of the asymmetric configuration of the first and second joints.

In one embodiment, at least one curved surface associated with each locking plane is contoured in the shape of a continuous curve.

In one embodiment, one curved surface associated with one locking plane is in the shape of a continuous curve, and the profile of the other curved surface of the locking plane is formed by one or more straight lines.

In one embodiment, the contour of each curved surface is in the shape of a continuous curve.

In one embodiment, each joint comprises a protrusion (extending in the direction of engagement) and adjacent grooves (formed along each side of the substrate); on the outermost surface of each protrusion and each groove A curved surface is formed on the innermost surface of the innermost surface relative to the first and second locking planes.

In one embodiment, the protrusion of the first joint has a bulbous profile with a neck narrowing in width along which part of the curved surface on the protrusion of the first joint is formed along the outermost side of the neck.

In one embodiment, the groove profile of the second joint is bulbous, with a narrowed neck, along which a part of the curved surface of the groove of the second joint is formed along the outermost side of the neck.

In one embodiment, a plane contains the straight line of the shortest distance of the necks or each neck is inclined with respect to the main plane.

In one embodiment, a plane comprises the shortest straight line through the necks or each neck lies in a plane inclined relative to the main face.

In one embodiment, the shortest straight lines running through each neck are parallel to each other.

In one embodiment, the shortest distance lines through each neck are collinear.

In a third aspect, there is provided a substrate longitudinal connection system having two opposite sides, a first major surface and a second major surface, the connection system being constituted as follows:

Asymmetrical male and female joints extending along opposite faces of the base plates, the male and female joints configured to engage two base plates with the same connection system for mating directions perpendicular to the major faces force exerted on

Male fittings consist of a male protrusion (usually extending perpendicularly from the first major face to the second major face) and a male groove (formed on the inside of the male protrusion); female fittings consist of a female protrusion (usually extending from the The second major face extends perpendicularly to the first major face) and a female groove (formed on the inside of the female protrusion); The first male locking surface forms a second male locking surface on the side of the female groove farthest from its male protrusion, and the third male locking surface is a common surface between the male protrusion and the male groove; On a female fitting, a first female locking surface is formed on the side of the female groove furthest from its male projection and a second female locking surface is formed on the side of the male projection furthest from its female groove The female locking surface, the third female locking surface is the common surface of the female protrusion and the female groove; the locking surface is configured so that when the male and female joints of the two base plates are engaged, the first male locking surface and First female locking surface engages to form first locking plane, second male locking surface and second female locking surface engage to form second locking plane, third male locking surface and third female locking surface Engaged to form a third locking plane between the first and second locking planes, each locking plane inhibits separation of the engaged joints in a direction parallel to the direction of engagement.

In one embodiment, the locking surfaces are configured to allow relative rotation of the two engaged substrates by up to 3° while maintaining the engaged state of the two substrates.

In one embodiment, the locking surface is configured to allow one of the engaged substrates to rotate 7° to 10° relative to the other substrate toward the plane on which the substrates are placed while maintaining the engaged state of the two substrates.

In one embodiment: at least one of the first male locking surface and the first female locking surface has a smoothly curved lateral extension; at least one of the second male locking surface and the second female locking surface has a smoothly curved Lateral extension.

In one embodiment, the other pair of first male locking surface and first female locking surface has a laterally extending portion comprising at least one planar surface.

In one embodiment, the other pair of second male locking surface and second female locking surface has a laterally extending portion comprising at least one planar surface.

In one embodiment, the first and second male and female locking surfaces each comprise a smoothly curved transverse extension.

In one embodiment, the first male locking surface, the first female locking surface, the second male locking surface, and the second female locking surface each comprise a curved surface; wherein the curved surfaces engage each other to form a first and a second locking plane.

In one embodiment, at least one of the third male locking surface and the third female locking surface is formed by a curved surface.

In a fourth aspect, there is provided a substrate longitudinal connection system having two opposite sides, a first major surface and a second major surface, the connection system being constituted as follows:

first and second asymmetric joints extending along opposite sides of the base plate, the first and second joints being configured to allow two or more base plates having the same connection system to intermate The force applied in the engaging direction perpendicular to the surface can also pull the first substrate in the direction opposite to the engaging direction, so that the engaged substrate can be disengaged, so that the adjacent engaged substrate can move along the sides of the first substrate. Rotate to be in a plane inclined relative to the first substrate, thereby exerting force on the second joint of the engaged substrates in the direction of engagement.

In one embodiment, the first and second contacts each have two laterally spaced apart laterally extending surface portions configured such that the first contact of one substrate is connected to the second contact of a second substrate. engaged, and the two transversely extending surfaces of the first joint are positioned opposite the two transversely extending surfaces of the second joint, thereby forming respective first and second locking planes at the innermost and outermost sides of each joint, each The locking planes are oriented parallel to the direction of engagement, wherein transversely extending portions associated with each locking plane extend transversely from opposite faces of the locking planes, the transversely extending portion of the second joint overhanging the transversely extending portion of the first joint.

In one embodiment, the profile of one or more laterally extending surfaces associated with at least one locking plane is a continuous convex curve.

In one embodiment, the first and second contacts each have two laterally spaced curved surfaces configured to engage the first contact of one substrate with the second contact of a second substrate, and The two curved surfaces of the first joint engage the two curved surfaces of the second joint on the innermost and outermost sides of each joint to form respective first and second locking planes, each of which can be Separate containment of the engaged joints in a direction parallel to the direction of engagement, each locking plane is oriented parallel to the direction of engagement, wherein curved surfaces associated with each locking plane are located on either side of the locking plane.

In one embodiment, the first joint is an externally threaded joint, the second joint is an internally threaded joint, the externally threaded joint consists of a male protrusion (generally extending perpendicularly from the first major face to the second major face) and the male Groove (formed on the inside of the male protrusion); female fittings consist of a female protrusion (usually extending perpendicularly from the second major face to the first major face) and a female groove (formed on the inside of the female protrusion) Formation; on an externally threaded joint, a first male locking surface is formed on the side of the male projection furthest from its female groove, and a first male locking surface is formed on the side of the female groove furthest from its male projection. The second male locking surface, the third male locking surface is the common surface of the male protrusion and the male groove; The first female locking surface forms the second female locking surface on the side of the male protrusion furthest from its female groove, and the third female locking surface is the surface common to the female protrusion and female groove The locking surfaces are configured such that when the male and female joints of the two base plates engage, the first male locking surface and the first female locking surface engage to form the first locking plane, the second male locking surface and A second female locking surface engages to form a second locking plane, a third male locking surface engages a third female locking surface to form a third locking plane between the first and second locking planes, each The locking flats inhibit separation of the engaged joints in a direction parallel to the direction of engagement.

In one embodiment, the first and second joints are configured to produce three locking planes when engaged with each other, each locking plane being parallel to the direction of engagement and capable of restraining the engaged joints in a direction opposite to the direction of engagement. separate.

In one embodiment, when the substrate is configured as a rectangular or square substrate with four sides, the first joint extends the length of two adjacent sides, and the second joint extends the length of the remaining two adjacent sides.

In a fifth aspect, there is provided a surface covering system consisting of a plurality of substrates, each substrate being provided with a longitudinal connection system according to any one of the first to fourth and tenth aspects.

In a sixth aspect, there is provided a semi-floating surface covering system consisting of:

A plurality of substrates, each substrate having a longitudinal connection system according to any one of the first to fourth and tenth aspects;

A mass of rebondable adhesive bonded to the first major face; and

One or more release strips covered with re-stickable adhesive.

In one embodiment, a rebondable adhesive is applied to two or more spaced lines extending longitudinally toward the substrate.

In one embodiment, the rebondable adhesive is applied to at least one of the spaced lines in continuous strips or beads.

In one embodiment, the rebondable adhesive is applied in a plurality of lines that are evenly spaced from each other and distributed symmetrically about the longitudinal centerline of the substrate.

In one embodiment, the thickness of the rebondable adhesive is between 1 - 6 mm, measured perpendicularly to the first major face.

In one embodiment, the thickness of the rebondable adhesive is between 2-4 mm.

In one embodiment, the adhesive comprises a mass of splice adhesive bonded to the substrates and covered by a release strip, when the connection system of one substrate is connected to the connection system of another substrate with the cover strip removed, the joints of one substrate The adhesive is capable of sticking to a joint of another substrate.

In one embodiment, the substrate is made from a material selected from solid wood, engineered wood, laminate, bamboo, plastic, and vinyl.

In a seventh aspect, a method of manufacturing a semi-floating surface covering substrate is provided, comprising:

According to the fifth aspect, there is provided a surface covering system;

Stick a generous amount of rebondable adhesive on the first major side; and use a release strip to cover the adhesive.

In one embodiment, the adhesive includes applying the adhesive on two or more spaced lines extending longitudinally toward the substrate.

In one embodiment, the adhesive comprises applying the adhesive in continuous strips or beads on at least one spaced line of the first major face.

In an embodiment, the method comprises applying the adhesive at a uniform thickness of between 1-6 millimeters (measured in a direction perpendicular to the major face).

In one embodiment, the method includes applying the adhesive at a uniform thickness of 2-4 millimeters.

In one embodiment, the method includes attaching a quantity of rebondable adhesive to at least a portion of the joint, using a release strip to cover the adhesive on the joint, and the rebondable adhesive is applied to the first substrate , when the longitudinal joint systems of the first and second substrates are joined together and the release strip of adhesive covering the joint of the first substrate is removed, the adhesive adheres to the joint of the second substrate.

In an eighth aspect, there is provided a surface covering system consisting of a plurality of substrates, each substrate having: opposing first and second major faces, wherein the first major face is configured to face an underlying support covered by the system Surface and vertical connection system, the composition of the vertical connection system is as follows:

first and second asymmetrical joints extending along opposite sides of the substrates, the first and second joints being configured to allow the two or more substrates to engage each other in a direction of engagement perpendicular to the major faces The force applied on the surface can also separate the engaged substrates by: (a) lifting the first substrate in the direction opposite to the engaging direction to promote the relative alignment of the adjacent engaged substrates along the first substrate; The two sides are rotated so as to lie in a plane inclined relative to the first substrate; and (b) subsequently applying a force in the engaging direction to the second joint of the engaged substrate.

In one embodiment, the surface covering system comprises at least one post attached (detachable) to the first substrate, the post having a shaft that can pass through a hole formed in the first substrate, facing the lower support surface Applying pressure, manipulating the strut pushes the shaft through the hole, thereby lifting the first base plate to form the lower support surface.

In an embodiment of the surface covering system, the longitudinal connection system is in accordance with any one of the first to fourth and tenth aspects.

In one embodiment, the surface covering system includes a plurality of rebondable adhesive attached to the first major face, and one or more release strips covering the rebondable adhesive.

In one embodiment, the surface covering system includes a plurality of re-bondable adhesives attached to one or both of the first and second joints, and a re-bondable adhesive respectively covering the joints attached to the joints. Dosage release strips.

In one embodiment, the longitudinal joint system includes a plurality of rebondable adhesives attached to one or both of the first and second joints, and a respective overlying rebondable adhesive attached to the joints. release bar.

In a ninth aspect, there is provided a substrate for a surface covering system, according to any one of the first to fourth and tenth aspects, the substrate comprising a longitudinal connection system.

In one embodiment, the substrate includes a plurality of re-bondable adhesives attached to one or both of the first and second joints, and releases respectively covering the re-bondable adhesives attached to the joints. strip.

In one embodiment of the substrate, a recess is provided for each joint to which the rebondable adhesive is attached, for receiving the attached rebondable adhesive.

In one embodiment, the substrate includes a plurality of rebondable adhesives attached to the first major face, and one or more strips of rebondable adhesive covering the first major face release strip.

In one embodiment, the longitudinal joint system includes a layer of wax on the surface of the joint that forms first and second locking planes when the joint is engaged with a similar joint.

In one embodiment of the longitudinal connection system, each substrate is provided with a groove, and the connection system is configured to be telescopically open so that a corresponding protrusion of a second substrate having the same connection system can easily enter the groove and Engages with the groove.

In a tenth aspect, there is provided a substrate longitudinal connection system having two opposite sides, a first major surface and a second major surface, the connection system being constituted as follows:

First and second asymmetric joints extending along opposite sides of the substrate, the first and second joints being configured to allow two substrates with the same connection system to intermesh for mating perpendicular to the major face the force applied in the direction;

The first and second joints are configured to allow relative rotation of the two engaged substrates by up to 3° while maintaining the engagement of the two substrates.

In an embodiment of the tenth aspect, the first and second connectors each have two laterally spaced generally convex surfaces configured such that the first connector of one substrate mates with the first connector of a second substrate. The two joints are engaged and the two generally convex surfaces of the first joint are positioned opposite the two general convex surfaces of the second joint, forming respective first and second locking planes at the innermost and outermost sides of each joint , each locking plane parallel to the direction of engagement, wherein the generally convex surfaces associated with each locking plane extend transversely to each other from opposite sides of the locking planes, the generally convex surface of the second fitting overhanging the generally convex surface of the first fitting , to prevent disengagement of the engaged joints, wherein at least one generally convex surface associated with each locking plane is curved in profile.

In an embodiment of the tenth aspect, each joint is composed of a protrusion (extending along the engaging direction) and an adjacent groove (formed along each side of the substrate); on the outermost surface of each protrusion and A laterally extending surface is formed on the innermost surface of each groove.

In an embodiment of the tenth aspect, each groove is configured to be telescopically open, so that protrusions of substrates having the same connection system can easily enter and engage with the groove.

In an embodiment of the tenth aspect, the first and second joints are configured to form a third locking plane between the first and second locking planes.

Description of drawings

Although any form of connection system that may be included within the scope of the connection system has been listed in this summary, specific embodiments will be described below with reference to examples and figures:

Figure 1a is a cross-sectional view of a panel incorporating an embodiment of a longitudinal connection system;

Figure 1b is a cross-sectional view of a portion of two panels comprising a longitudinal connection system in an engaged state;

Figure 2 is an isometric view of a portion of two panels comprising the longitudinal connection system in a detached state;

Figure 3a illustrates the ability of engaged panels having a longitudinal connection system to rotate towards a first direction relative to each other;

Figure 3b illustrates the ability of engaged panels with a longitudinal connection system to rotate towards a second opposite direction relative to each other;

Figure 4a illustrates the effect of lateral bending of a substrate overlying a support surface depression or notch;

Figure 4b is a detailed enlarged view of mark A in Figure 4a;

Figure 4c illustrates the effect of lateral bending of the panel when it is overlaid on the lower surface bumps or protrusions;

Figure 4d is an enlarged view of the details marked B in Figure 4c;

Figure 4e is a schematic diagram comparing the ability of a surface to accommodate bumps or protrusions between a connection system designed using the prior art and a longitudinal connection system manufactured according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 4f is an enlarged view of the detail marked C in Figure 4e;

Figure 4g is a schematic diagram comparing the ability of a surface to accommodate a depression or notch between a connection system designed using the prior art and a longitudinal connection system manufactured according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 4h is an enlarged view of the detail marked D in Figure 4g;

Figure 5a is a schematic side-by-side view of panels with the present longitudinal joint system ready for engagement;

Figures 5b-5e depict in sequence the steps of engagement of panels incorporating longitudinal joint system embodiments, from the initial point of contact in Figure 5b to full engagement in Figure 5e;

Figures 5f-5k depict, in sequence, the auto-alignment functionality of embodiments of the longitudinal linkage system;

Figures 5l-5u are schematic diagrams showing the effect comparison of the automatic alignment function between the embodiment of the present invention and the prior art;

Figure 6a is a front view of the area covered by substrates joined together using an embodiment of the present vertical joint system, and a panel to be disassembled;

Fig. 6 b is the view of part A-A on Fig. 6 a;

Figure 6c is a top view of the panel with struts (capable of removing the panel);

Figures 6d-6s depict in sequence the steps to remove and replace the panels highlighted in Figure 6a;

Figure 7a is a side view of the strut depicted in Figure 6c;

Figure 7b is a top view of the strut depicted in Figure 6c;

Figure 8a is a side view of a wedge tool (used with a post to remove engaged panels);

Figure 8b is a front view of the wedge tool shown in Figure 8a;

Figures 9a-9f sequentially depict the separation steps of the connected panels, from the initial fully engaged state depicted in Figure 9a to the fully separated state shown in Figure 9f;

Figure 10a depicts a panel incorporating a second embodiment of the longitudinal connection system;

Figure 10b illustrates the engagement of two panels incorporating a second embodiment of the longitudinal joint system;

Figure 11a depicts a panel incorporating a third embodiment of the longitudinal connection system;

Figure 11b illustrates the engagement of two panels incorporating a third embodiment of the longitudinal joint system;

Figure 11c illustrates the ability to rotate interengaging panels in a first direction relative to each other in a third embodiment of the attachment system;

Figure 11d illustrates the ability of the interengaging panels mounted with the connection system of the third embodiment to rotate in a second opposite direction relative to each other;

Figure 12a depicts a panel incorporating a fourth embodiment of the longitudinal joint system;

Figure 12b illustrates the engagement of two panels incorporating a fourth embodiment of the longitudinal joint system;

Figure 13a depicts a panel incorporating a fifth embodiment of the longitudinal joint system;

Figure 13b illustrates the engagement of two panels incorporating a fifth embodiment of the longitudinal joint system;

Figure 14a depicts a panel incorporating a sixth embodiment of the longitudinal joint system;

Figure 14b illustrates the engagement of two panels incorporating a sixth embodiment of the longitudinal joint system;

Figure 15a depicts a panel incorporating a seventh embodiment of the longitudinal joint system;

Figure 15b illustrates the engagement of two panels incorporating a seventh embodiment of the longitudinal joint system;

Figure 16a depicts a panel incorporating an eighth embodiment of the longitudinal joint system;

Figure 16b illustrates the engagement of two panels incorporating an eighth embodiment of the longitudinal joint system;

Figure 17a depicts a panel incorporating a ninth embodiment of the longitudinal joint system;

Figure 17b illustrates the engagement of two panels incorporating a ninth embodiment of the longitudinal joint system;

Figure 17c schematically depicts panels of different thicknesses incorporating a ninth embodiment of the longitudinal connection system;

Figure 17d illustrates the engagement of the two panels shown in Figure 17c;

Figure 17e is a series of illustrations provided to illustrate the engagement of pairs of panels of different thicknesses incorporating a ninth embodiment of the longitudinal joint system.

Figure 18a depicts a panel incorporating a tenth embodiment of the longitudinal joint system;

Figure 18b illustrates the engagement of two panels incorporating a tenth embodiment of the longitudinal joint system;

Figure 19a depicts a panel incorporating an eleventh embodiment of the connection system;

Figure 19b illustrates the engagement of two panels incorporating an eleventh embodiment of the longitudinal joint system;

Figure 20a depicts a panel incorporating a twelfth embodiment of the longitudinal joint system;

Figure 20b illustrates the engagement of two panels incorporating a twelfth embodiment of the longitudinal joint system;

Figure 21a depicts a panel incorporating a thirteenth embodiment of a longitudinal joint system;

Figure 21b illustrates the engagement of two panels incorporating a thirteenth embodiment of a longitudinal joint system;

Figure 22 illustrates the engagement of two panels incorporating a fifteenth embodiment of the longitudinal joint system;

Figure 23a depicts a panel incorporating a fourteenth embodiment of the longitudinal joint system;

Figure 23b illustrates the engagement of two panels incorporating a fourteenth embodiment of a longitudinal joint system;

Figures 23c-23i depict, in sequence, the engagement and disengagement of panels incorporating a fourteenth embodiment of a longitudinal joint system and using a rebondable adhesive.

Figure 24a depicts a panel incorporating any embodiment of the longitudinal joint system with the additional application of strips of rebondable adhesive;

Figure 24b is a view of the portion AA of the panel shown in Figure 24a;

Figure 24c shows the panel attached to the lower support surface of Figures 24a and 24b;

Figure 25a depicts a panel incorporating any embodiment of the longitudinal joint system with the additional application of beaded rebondable adhesive;

Figure 25b shows the panel attached to the lower support surface in Figure 25a;

Figures 26a-26e show, in order, the removal of the panel attached to the lower support surface in Figures 25a and 25b; and

Figures 27a and 27b describe the method of laying a floor using joint panels.

Detailed ways

Figures 1a-2 illustrate a first embodiment of a substrate longitudinal connection system 10 (hereinafter "connection system 10"). The substrate is shown in cross-sectional view and this embodiment uses an elongated rectangular panel 12 . The base or panel 12 has two opposing faces, a first major face 14 and a second major face 16. Both faces 14 and 16 are planar and parallel to each other. In one direction, face 14 is the exposed face of panel 12, while face 16 bears the pressure of a supporting surface or structure, including but not limited to concrete, wood, tile or vinyl flooring or battens. The connection system 10 consists of a first joint Jm and a second asymmetrical joint Jf. Theoretically, the first joint Jm can be regarded as a male joint, while the second joint Jf can be regarded as a female joint. The reason for the naming of the connectors is briefly explained later.

Assuming that the shape of the substrate is a quadrilateral, the joint Jm extends along two adjacent sides, and the joint Jf extends along the remaining two adjacent sides. For example, as shown in Figures 1b and 1c, when the base plate is in the shape of an elongated rectangular floor, the joint Jm extends along the longitudinal side and the adjacent transverse side of the rectangle, while the joint Jf extends along the other (i.e. opposite) longitudinal and other A (ie opposite) adjacent lateral edge extends.

As shown in FIG. 1 b , a first joint Jm of a first panel 12 a engages with a second joint Jf of a second panel 12 b having the same connection system 10 . For convenience of description, panels 12a and 12b will be collectively referred to as "panel 12".

The first joint Jm and the second joint Jf are configured to engage the two panels 12 (i.e. panels 12a and 12b) with each other in response to an applied pressure or Force F (see Figure 5), which will be explained in more detail later. If the panel 12 is a floor panel, the direction D lies in a vertical plane, and more specifically it points downwards towards the plane on which the panel is placed. This amounts to that the joints Jm and Jf are brought together by a relative movement of one of the joints in a direction perpendicular to the plane containing the main faces.

The joint Jm consists of a male protrusion Pm and male groove Rm, while the joint Jf consists of a female protrusion Pf and a female groove Rf. Theoretically, the first joint Jm is designated as an externally threaded joint due to the protrusion Pm on its upper surface 14, and the second joint Jf is designated as an internal threaded joint due to the grooves it is configured to engage the protrusion Pm. threaded joints.

When describing the common functions or characteristics of all protrusions, regardless of singular or plural, this specification is collectively referred to as "protrusions P". When describing the common functions or characteristics of all grooves, regardless of singular or plural, this specification is collectively referred to as "groove R". When describing the common functions or characteristics of all joints, regardless of singular or plural, this specification is collectively referred to as "joint J".

The male fitting Jm has first, second and third male locking surfaces, respectively ML1 , ML2 and ML3 (collectively "male locking surfaces ML"). Each male locking surface ML extends continuously along a direction substantially perpendicular to the main face. Likewise, the female fitting Jf has first, second and third female locking surfaces, respectively FL1, FL2 and FL3 (collectively referred to as "female locking surfaces FL"). The male and female locking surfaces are collectively referred to as locking surfaces L.

Each locking surface L extends continuously along a direction substantially perpendicular to the main face. In the context of male and female locking surfaces, "continuously extending in a direction generally perpendicular to the major faces" is intended to mean that the locking surface Extend in a certain direction, that is, always along the direction from face 14 to face 16 or in the opposite direction. So, there is no return as would be the case if the surface had a barb or hook like structure.

The male locking surface ML1 extends from the edge of the main face 14 adjacent to the protrusion Pm and moves down to the side adjacent to the protrusion Pm so that the face on which the protrusion Pm is located is turned at an angle greater than 45o. It is worth noting that the locking surface ML1 continues to extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the main face 14 without returning. Therefore, each point on the surface ML1 is located in a different horizontal plane. In contrast, if hook-like formations or barbs are included, the corresponding surface will be self-contained, and a plane parallel to the main face 14 may be inserted into the surface from three different points.

The male locking surface ML2 extends along the adjacent edge of the groove Rm from the second main face 16 to a point in front of the deepest part of the groove Rm, with a deflection angle greater than 45° opposite the protrusion Pm. Finally, the third male locking surface ML3 extends along the shared or common surface of the protrusions Pm and Rm, and is defined in front of the deepest position of the groove Rm or the position farthest from the protrusion Pm at a vertical deflection angle greater than about 45°. end.

The first and second male and female locking surfaces engage in respective locking planes to restrain the engaged joints Jm and Jf from separating in the vertical direction. A third male and female locking plane ML3 and FL3 can also be configured to form a third locking plane. In addition, the locking plane L in different embodiments includes a curved surface, and the curved surface is formed by a lateral extension surface such as a convex surface or a cam surface or a raised surface. The following expressions explain in detail the relationship between the locking surface L, the curved surface and the laterally extended surface.

By looking more closely at the first and second joints Jm and Jf (collectively "joint J"), we can see that each joint is provided with two laterally spaced apart laterally extending surfaces or raised portions. The raised portions of the laterally extending surface often move laterally and contact each other, sometimes rolling or rotating, and can therefore also be considered or defined as "camming surfaces". The two laterally extending faces on the first joint Jm are referred to as Cm1 and Cm2, while the laterally extending faces on the joint Jf are referred to as Cf1 and Cf2. In many embodiments, the laterally extending surfaces are smooth curved convex surfaces. However, some other configurations of laterally extending surface examples are explained in detail below. For example, the transversely extending surfaces are generally not all continuous or smooth curved surfaces, but consist of one or more rectilinear/flat surfaces, so that the plane is generally curved. For ease of reference, the transversely extending surfaces on the male joint Jm are collectively referred to as "surface Cmi" (where the letter i is 1, 2, 3, etc.); similarly, the transversely extending surfaces on the female joint Jf are collectively referred to as "surface Cfi " (wherein, the letter i is 1, 2, 3, etc.).

The surface Cm1 is formed on the first joint Jm protrusion Pm, and the surface Cm2 is formed on the joint Jm recess Rm. Likewise, the surface Cf2 is formed on the protrusion Pf of the joint Jf, and the surface Cf1 is formed on the groove Rf of the second joint Jf. (For simplicity of description, surfaces Cm2 and Cm1 are collectively referred to as "surface Cm"; surfaces Cf1 and Cf2 are collectively referred to as "surface Cf"; and surfaces Cm2, Cm1, Cf1, and Cf2 are collectively referred to as "surface C").

Figure 1b shows joint J in the engaged state. It will be apparent that, when the joint J is in the engaged state, the respective laterally extending surfaces are positioned relative to each other to form respective first and second locking planes 18 and 20, thereby restraining the engaged joint from moving in the opposite direction D of engagement. direction of separation.

Each locking plane 18 , 20 is parallel to the direction D of engagement. The laterally extending surfaces Cm1 , Cf1 , Cm2 and Cf2 associated with each locking plane extend laterally from each other from opposite sides of the locking planes, with the laterally extending surfaces of the second or female fitting (ie Cf1 and Cf2 ) lying on the first or externally threaded joints (ie Cm1 and Cm2) on the laterally extending surface. This prevents separation of the engaged joints Jm and Jf. It is also notable that at least one of the laterally extending surfaces associated with each locking plane has a curved profile. In this example, the contours of surface Cf1 associated with locking plane 18 and surfaces Cf2 and Cm2 associated with locking plane 20 are curved.

Surfaces Cm1 and Cm2 pass through and engage surfaces Cf1 and Cf2 when joints Jm and Jf are engaged. This is done by elastic compression of one or both of the protrusions Pm and Pf and elastic tension of the grooves Rm and Rf in response to the applied force F as the surface Cm passes through the surface Cf. Whether one or both of the protrusions Pm and Pf and the grooves Rm and Rf produce elastic compression or elastic tension depends on the material of the panel 12 . For example, if the panels are made of an extremely stiff or hard material such as heavy bamboo, the protrusion P will have less compressive force, but the groove R will have enough tension to open or expand itself for a smooth engagement. A lubricant can be provided to help the protrusion P enter the groove R smoothly, such as waxing on the joints Jm and Jf. The use of lubricants, especially wax, not only significantly reduces the noise emitted by the joints, but also enables adjacent mating joints J to rotate relative to each other. Rotational motion will be covered later in this specification.

Respective grooves R engage protrusions P capable of restraining horizontal separation between engaging joints Jm and Jf. Joints Jm and Jf are also provided with planar abutment surfaces 24 and 26 respectively. Surfaces 24 and 26 extend vertically along opposite edges of major face 14 . In addition, the respective surfaces Cm and Cf are configured to generate a lateral compressive force between the surfaces 24 and 26, thereby bringing the two surfaces into contact with each other and preventing the creation of a gap between the joining panels 12a and 12b.

Thus, as described above, surfaces Cm and Cf together provide vertical and horizontal containment separation of panels 12a and 12b when respective joints Jm and Jf of panels 12a and 12b are engaged with each other. But otherwise, the surfaces Cm and Cf are capable of limiting relative rotation between the panels 12a and 12b while maintaining the engaged state of the panels 12 .

As shown in Fig. 3a, panel 12a is rotated by +3o (rotation 3o counterclockwise) relative to panel 12b. Pivoting on surface 26 at the upper corner of surface 24 facilitates overall rotation. This causes the protrusion Pm to rotate in the groove Rf and causes the cam surface Cm2 to move or roll up, but not beyond the crest of the surface Cf2. The raised portion Pf is now embedded exactly between the surfaces Cm2 and Cm3. In this configuration, because of this pinching effect and surface Cm1 remains below surface Cf1 , vertical separation of substrates 12a and 12b can be contained. The protrusions Pm and Pf are still in the respective grooves Rm and Rf, thus keeping the substrate pinned in the horizontal direction.

As shown in FIG. 3 b , the relative rotation angle of the panel 12 a to the panel 12 b is -3° (3° in the clockwise direction). Face Cm2 rolls down and facilitates this by being the center point or fulcrum of the side of joint Jf containing face Cm2. This separates faces 24 and 26 , creating a gap on upper major face 14 . Nevertheless, the panels 12a and 12b remain engaged vertically and horizontally. The engaged state maintained by the faces Cm2 and Cf2 and the faces Cm1 and Cf1 maintains the pinning between the substrates in the vertical direction. The protrusions Pm and Pf are seated in the respective grooves Rf and Rm so as to maintain the holding force in the horizontal direction.

The relative rotational movement between the panels 12a and 12b greatly assists in the installation of the substrate, especially in the case of uneven surfaces, such as uneven concrete floors. While the benefits depend on the professional level, for the "do-it-yourself" type of user, this is critical. For example, suppose a snap-on floor covering fitted with a prior art connection system is to be laid on an uneven surface and the tongue is inserted from the side, or inserted obliquely into the groove or groove. Unevenness in the ground may manifest itself as a sunken surface, or parts of the surface that are shallow and several times the width of the panel. Depending on the degree of concavity or slope, the installation of the "to-be" panel can be very difficult if the tongue cannot be inserted into the tongue and groove of the previously laid panel. This problem can easily arise because the two panels are not lying on the same plane, but are arranged at an angle to each other due to the concavity.

In addition, when installing a floor with a length of about 1 meter or more on an uneven surface, the previously installed floor may bend up and down or sideways due to the installer kneeling down to try to lay the next floor. Due to the uneven bottom surface, the weight of the installer can bend the kneeling floor. The effect is shown in Figures 4a to 4d. Figures 4a and 4b show lateral bowing of the exterior of panel 12x as the uneven surface sags or sinks. Figures 4c and 4d show that when the uneven surface is raised, lateral bending occurs on the inside of the panel 12x. It is worth noting that the presence of curvature can make it extremely difficult to fully engage the adjacent panel longitudinally. In these cases, even professional installers face difficulties in laying the floor, relying on great physical strength and experience. Do-it-yourself installers often give up and either return the floor to the retailer on the grounds that it won't "mesh" or pay for the help of a professional installer.

Figures 4e to 4h illustrate the effect of the relative rotational performance of the joint system 10 compared to the prior art. Conventional flooring systems are capable of adjusting for indentations or bulges of the underlying substrate. For example, a 1 meter long concrete floor has 3–5mm indentations or bumps, which is the industry standard. Larger bumps either prevent the use of many advanced technology systems or at least make installation very difficult. Supposed to fit, but the concave and convex surfaces then progressively separate the advanced joint system horizontally, creating a gap. In particular, if the relief is in the form of bumps or undulations, there will be a horizontal separation between adjacent panels and/or cracks, or the possibility of severed joints. If the concave-convex surface is concave, there is a risk that the advanced technology joint will chip or break due to excessive tension on the joint.

As shown in Figures 4e to 4h (schematic representations only and not drawn to scale), the shaded portion 30 represents the 3-5mm unevenness that the advanced technology system is capable of accommodating. Figures 4e and 4f show a 3-5mm convex side, while Figures 4g and 4h show a 3-5mm concave side. In contrast, for a +3o or -3o rotation in an embodiment of the joint system 10 that is longer than 1 meter, the total displacement may reach 52mm. Figures 4e and 4f and Figures 4g and 4h illustrate the +3o and –3o rotations, respectively. This allows substrates utilizing embodiments of the joint system 10 to be successfully laid on floors where concavities may exist, without horizontal separation. For example, a concave floor with a length of more than 1 meter will have a sag of 52 mm. Maintaining level engagement helps ensure the structural integrity of the floor. This is very beneficial from a floor appearance point of view and at the same time increases the value of the associated house.

This will be recognized by someone who is proficient in the technology. This technology enables flooring systems incorporating embodiments of the current joint system to be laid on substrates with an unevenness of more than 3-5mm (global industry standard) per meter of length. This technology has great practical and commercial benefits. A practical benefit is that do-it-yourself installers and professional installers will be able to successfully and easily install flooring on substrates hitherto unsuitable for conventional snap-on flooring. The commercial benefit is that, because of the installability of the flooring system, dissatisfied and disappointed installers will not return it to the point of sale and demand a refund on the grounds that the system is not functioning properly. Conventional joint systems only work well when the unevenness of the substrate is within the narrow range specified by global industry standards. But installers are generally unaware of the standard and therefore have no idea whether their substrates meet the requirements anyway. Embodiments of the present invention do not have this problem because the floor can be installed on substrates that exceed global industry standards without separation.

Returning to FIGS. 1 and 2 , it can be seen that the faces Cm and Cf constitute respective parts of curved surfaces which in turn constitute respective parts of locking surface L . In particular, the surface Cm1 forms part of a curved surface Im1 (shown in dashed lines) which in turn forms part of the first male locking surface ML1 of the protrusion Pm (shown in dotted lines). The curved surface Im1 extends generally along the direction D from the abutment surface 24 .

Likewise, the surface Cm2 forms part of the curved surface Im2 (indicated by dashed lines), which in turn forms part of a second male locking surface ML2 (indicated by dotted lines). The face ML2 is formed on the surface of the groove Rm substantially depending on the direction D adjacent to the bottom 32 of the groove Rm.

The surface Cf2 constitutes a part of the curved surface If2 (indicated by the dotted line), and in turn the curved surface If2 forms a part of the second female locking surface FL2 (indicated by the dotted line); while the female locking surface FL2 is on the outermost layer of the protrusion Pf formed, and generally extend along a direction parallel to the direction D.

Surface Cf1 forms part of curved surface If1 (shown in dashed lines), which in turn forms part of a first female locking surface FL1 (dotted line). The face FL1 depends on the adjacent face 26 , generally in a direction parallel to the direction D, while extending towards the bottom 34 of the groove Rf.

It can be seen from Fig. 1b that the surfaces Cm1, Im1 and ML1 engage with the surfaces Cf1, If1 and FL1 respectively; while the surfaces Cm2, Im2 and ML2 engage with the surfaces Cf2, If2 and FL2 when the joints Jm and Jf are engaged. These surfaces intermesh to form or create first and second locking planes 18,20. During the various stages of engagement and disengagement of the joints Jm and Jf, different parts of the locking surface L, the curved surface I and the transversely extending surface C function as pinning and rolling surfaces, respectively.

Rolling adjacent mating substrates requires at least one surface C to form a continuous or smooth curved profile with one of the curved surfaces I of each pair of mating or related surfaces. For example, assume faces Cm1 and Cf1, and corresponding surfaces Im1 and If1. When the joints Jm and Jf are engaged, the surfaces Cm1 and Cf1 lie near or adjacent to the first locking plane 18; so do the corresponding curved surfaces Im1 and If1. In this example, the contours of the surface Cf1 and the corresponding curved surface If1 are both continuous or smooth curved shapes. However, the contours of the surface Cm1 and the corresponding curved surface Im1 contain a straight line 36 . The line is relatively short and forms a small ridge or peak 38 on the surface Cm1 and the curved surface Im1. The ridge 38 is a relatively small contact surface formed with the curved surface If1, which minimizes surface friction and the possibility of sticking during the associated rotational motion.

Conversely, the surfaces Cm2 and Cf2, and the corresponding curved surfaces Im2 and If2 form a second locking plane 20, each having a continuous curvilinear profile. However, in other embodiments described later, one of the surfaces Cm2/Im2 or Cf2/If2 contains one or more straight lines.

The first and second male locking surfaces ML1 and ML2 together with the associated surfaces Cm1 and Cm2 and the corresponding curved surfaces Im1 and Im2 constitute the extreme (innermost and outermost) lateral extension of the first (male) joint Jm faces and surfaces. The first and second female locking surfaces FL1 and FL2, together with the associated faces Cf1 and Cf2 and the curved surfaces If1 and If2 constitute the extreme lateral extension and curved surfaces of the second (female) joint Jf. These extreme laterally extending and curved surfaces form respective pairs of surfaces forming extreme (ie innermost and outermost) locking planes 18 and 20 on the interengaging joints Jm and Jf. Figure 1b can clearly show. In particular, the surface pairs in this example are: Im1 and If1 or Cm1 and Cf1; and Im2 and If2 or Cm2 and Cf2. Forming a smooth or continuous curve in each pair of surfaces facilitates relative rotation between the panels of the above-described embodiment of the joint system 10 .

The faces Cm1 and Im1 form a part of the outer peripheral face 40 of the protrusion Pm. The protrusions Pm generally have a spherical or bulbous profile extending in the direction D from the main face 14 . The outer surface 40 behind the curved surface Im1 is curved toward the groove Rm. The surface 40 is provided with grooves 42 at the point furthest from the main face 14 . As shown in Figure 1b, when the joints Jm and Jf are engaged, the recess 42 forms a reservoir 44 at a lower level adjacent to the surface 46 of the recess Rf. Except for the groove 42, the end of the protrusion Pm toward the bottom of the groove Rf1 has a rounded or curved shape. The first male locking surface ML1 is formed by the combination of the surface 24 and the curved surface Im1.

Depending on the purpose, the groove 42 and the corresponding reservoir 44 are used as appropriate. These include, but are not limited to, capturing adhesives and/or sealants, serving as a reservoir for debris that falls into recess Rf during installation, or both. In this regard, groove 42 faces the lowest portion of surface 46 in groove Rf. We expect that most of the debris that falls into groove Rf will collect at the very bottom of face 46 . As the joints Jm and Jf are engaged by the vertical movement, a large amount of debris is likely to collect in the subsequently formed sump 44 . Without this feature, it may be necessary to clean the groove Rf, eg compressed air blast, vacuum cleaner or broom to remove debris which may interfere with the meshing process. Groove 42/reservoir 44 can also accommodate expansion and contraction of joint J.

The surface 40 behind the groove 42 is curved towards the groove Rm and includes a more curved surface Im3. The surface Im3 is the "shared" surface between the protrusion Pm and the groove Rm, and contains the surface Cm3. Surface Cm3 transforms surface 40 from a generally horizontal position to a generally vertical position. The third male locking surface ML3 substantially coexists with the curved surface Im3.

It is worth noting that the protrusion Pm forms the neck 48 . The neck width is narrow compared to other parts of the protrusion Pm. It can be seen that face Cm1 is adjacent to the outermost side of neck 48 . Also, a part of the curved surface Im1 in the vicinity of the abutment surface 24 forms the outermost side of the neck 48 . In addition, a portion of the curved surface Im3 forms the other side of the neck 48 . In this embodiment, the closest line 50 of the neck 48 is an oblique line of the major face 14 .

The curved surface Im3 in turn forms a surface 52 at the bottom 32 of the groove Rm. The surface 52 is curved, touching and connecting the curved surface Im2. The face Im2 extends generally along the direction D, forming a face 54 , which in turn extends in a direction perpendicular to the main faces 14 and 16 , and then to a chamfered face 56 forming the main face 16 . The second male locking surface extends from above the curved surface Im2 and along the chamfer 56 to the main face 16 .

Looking at the configuration of the joint Jf on the other side of the panel 12, it can be seen that the surface Cf1 and the corresponding curved surface If1 extend from the adjoining surface 26 generally along the direction D. The first female locking surface FL1 is formed by the combination of face 26 and If1. The curved surface If1 forms a surface 46 at the bottom 34 of the groove Rf. The face 46 in turn forms the longitudinal intercepting face of the protrusion Pm. Also, face 46 includes a substantially horizontal floor 58 centrally facing recess 42 when connector Jm is inserted into connector Jf. Ground 58 is generally parallel to major faces 14 and 16 . Moving in the direction of the protrusion Pf, the face 46 forms and contains a more curved surface If3 and a correspondingly co-existing third female locking surface FL3. The faces If3 and FL3 are shared surfaces between the groove Rf and the protrusion Pf, and generally extend in opposite directions to the direction D. As shown in FIG.

The curved surface If3 forms the upper arcuate surface portion 60 of the protrusion Pf, which in turn forms the surface Cf2 and the curved surface If2. The curved surface If2 extends to a plane 62 extending perpendicularly to the main faces 14 and 16 . In turn, this surface extends to the slope 64 ; and the slope 64 extends to the main face 16 . The second female locking surface is formed by the combination of faces If2, 62 and 64.

The groove Rf is configured to engage the protrusion Pm. Also, the groove Rf forms the neck 66 . This neck in turn forms a restricted opening of the groove Rf. In this embodiment, neck 66 is inclined relative to major faces 14 and 16 from line 68 of shortest distance. More particularly, line 66 is inclined at substantially the same angle as line 50 .

The protrusions Pf, like the protrusions Pm, are spherical or bulbous in configuration. Also, similar to the protrusion Pm, the protrusion Pf forms a neck portion 70 of reduced width. Neck 70 is inclined relative to major faces 14 and 16 from line 72 of shortest distance. In this embodiment, however, line 70 has a different inclination than lines 50 and 68 .

Looking again at FIG. 1 b, it can also be seen that the shared locking surfaces and curved surfaces ML3 and FL3 and the respective Im3 and If3 and determining the corresponding surfaces Cm3 and Cf3 are positioned relative to each other so as to form a third locking plane 74 along which the Disengagement of the engaged joint J is suppressed. A third locking plane 74 is parallel to and located between the innermost and outermost locking planes 18 and 20 .

Part of the rationale for the joints Jm and Jf is based on human anatomical joints, especially the hip and shoulder joints. These joints Jm and Jf are intended to provide lateral and longitudinal strength support, allowing relative rotational movement to a limited extent without separation. In practice, the joints Jm and Jf can be considered as ball-and-socket type joints. Some of the examples described below focus on joints compared to anatomical joints, including non-curing or non-setting rebondable elastic adhesives acting between joints Jm and JF. In such embodiments, the adhesive acts like a tendon, maintaining the connection while ensuring relative rotational motion. This is again a bit like cartilage, which acts as a cushion. Likewise, when wax is used on joints, it acts like a liquid to provide lubrication.

As can be seen more clearly from FIG. 1b, due to the asymmetry of the relative configuration of the joints, when the joints are engaged with each other, there will be spaces or gaps between the engaged joints. A space 76 is formed immediately below the adjoining faces 24 and 26 and is opposite the surface Cf1. The space 76 will also be described as a space formed between the respective top portions of the curved surfaces Im1 and If1. A space 78 is formed between the bottom portions of the curved surfaces Im1 and If1. A substantially vertically extending space 80 is formed between the shared curved surfaces Im3 and If3; and a substantially horizontally extending space 82 is formed between the bottom 32 of the groove Rm and the arc portion 60 of the protrusion Pf. These spaces allow thermal expansion and contraction of the panel 12 without displacement or fracture of the joints Jm and Jf, and facilitate relative rotation of the panel 12 .

With combined reference to Figures 5a-9f, the engagement and disengagement of joints Jm and Jf will now be described in detail.

As shown in Figure 5a, a first panel 12a has been laid and a second panel 12b is being laid. The panels 12a and 12b are supported by the horizontal surface 90 below. Joint Jf of panel 12a is now open and ready to be connected to joint Jm of panel 12b. The panel 12b is adjacent to the panel 12a, and the joint Jm is located above the joint Jf. The edge of the panel 12b equipped with the joint Jf rests against the surface 90 only. In this way, a small angle of about 1°-3° is formed between the panels 12a and 12b.

It can be seen from Fig. 5b that in this position, the planes Cm1 and Cm3 are above the planes Cf1 and Cf3, respectively; while the planes Cm2 and Cf2 are vertically separated from each other. In this configuration, the top parts of the faces Cf1 and Cf3 are able to prevent the protrusion Pm from entering the groove Rf, so these parts are considered as cam retarders.

In order for the surfaces Jm and Jf to start joining, a downward pressure or force F should be applied in a direction perpendicular to the main surface 14 and directly facing the underlying surface 90 . Depending on the material from which the panel 12 is made, the application of pressure or force will apply compression and tension respectively to the protrusion Pm and the groove Rf; And make the groove Rf open or expand, so that the surfaces Cm1 and Cm3 can slide over the surfaces Cf1 and Cf3. Wax the joints Jm and Jf again to help the surface slide. This causes the protrusion Pm to slide over the neck 66 and into the groove Rf. Opening grooves Rm and Rf creates pressure in the joint (indicated by line T in Fig. 5c). This pressure is the bending force generated at both ends of the bottom of each groove Rf and Rm. As the protrusions Pm and Pf pass through the necks of the grooves Rf and Rm, the pressure is released and the resulting spring force not only causes the grooves to engage the protrusions but also pulls the protrusions into the grooves. Thus, the grooves can be opened by means of spring force and then closed by themselves. Other embodiments of the joint system will also produce this operation and will be described later in this specification.

In this embodiment, the configuration of the joint enables the faces Cm and Cf which each pass through each other to do so at slightly different times. In this particular embodiment, face Cm1 passes face Cf1 shortly before face Cm3 passes face Cf3. After the faces Cm1, Cm3 have passed the faces Cf1, Cf3, the centering or meshing operation will pull the rest of the protrusion Pm into the groove Rf. This is because after the surfaces Cm1 and Cm3 pass through the surfaces Cf1 and Cf3, the relative arrangement of the curved surfaces and the protrusion Pm release the compressive force. In fact, the respective necks 48 and 66 lie within each other.

Simultaneously with this operation, a similar operation occurs for the protrusion Pf and the groove Rm. Soon after the face Cm3 passes through Cf3, the face Cm2 also passes through Cf2. As shown in Figure 5c. As the downward pressure or force F is applied, the groove Rm is pushed towards the protrusion Pf, and the protrusion Pf between the faces Cf3 and Cf2 is also compressed. After these faces have passed faces Cm3 and Cm2, a centering or meshing operation will pull the groove Rf towards the protrusion Pf.

When pressure or force is applied longitudinally to engage the joints J (eg, perpendicular to the major faces 14, 16), the relative movement between the joints J is not perfectly perpendicular. Instead, a combined longitudinal movement is formed with the lateral displacement. Referring to Figures 5b-5e and joint Jm, lateral movement during engagement means that joint Jm moves to the left, eventually allowing the horizontal gap or gap G of faces 24 and 26 to be perfectly closed. The horizontal gap G gradually shrinks from the largest gap G1 in Figure 5b to smaller gaps G2 and G3, and finally becomes zero gap G4 in Figure 5e, in this case, the faces 24 and 26 are in close contact, and the joints Jm and Jf are completely engage. The joints Jm and Jf only rely on the side that is least constrained by lateral movement for lateral movement. Make sure both parties can move relative to each other to equal or unequal degrees. Lateral movement is a manifestation of the longitudinal stability of the mesh connection system.

Figure 5d is a schematic diagram of joints Jm and Jf just before full engagement. It can be seen here that there is a small gap between the bottom of the protrusion Pm and the groove Rf, and the main surface 14 of the panel 12b is slightly raised than the main surface 14 of the panel 12a. As shown in FIG. 5e, after the relative downward movement of the panel 12b stops, the joint is fully engaged when the protrusion Pm engages with the intercepting surface 58 on the groove Rf. In this configuration, the reservoir 46 is formed between the groove 42 and the intercepting surface 58 . In this configuration, the faces Cm1 , Cm2 , Cm3 on the male joint Jm are located below the faces Cf1 , Cf2 , Cf3 on the corresponding female joint.

The above-described ability of the joints Jm and Jf to rotate relative to each other in both forward and reverse directions without disengagement from each other, is applicable to uneven surfaces. In addition, joints Jm and Jf may also facilitate self-alignment of adjacent panels 12 . These features greatly simplify installation to a certain extent, and panels incorporating embodiments of the connection system 10 can be easily installed by even ordinary household members.

The automatic alignment function of the system 10 benefits from the shape and configuration of the joints Jf and Jm, which will be explained with reference to Figures 5b and 5f-5k.

Figure 5f shows the approximate positioning of panel 12b prior to application of downward force or pressure to engage the panel for subsequent engagement with panel 12a. The panels 12a and 12b are inclined relative to each other. At one end 85, the protrusion Pm sits on top of the groove Rf. The corresponding cross-sectional views are shown in Figures 5b and 5j, with the joint Jm of the panel 12b located on top of the groove Rf of the panel 12a. At the opposite end 87, the tabs are spaced laterally. The degree of separation between the junction Jm and Jf intervals varied linearly. Thus, at position AA, the joints Jm and Jf are in contact, but the protrusion Pm is partly engaged with the protrusion Pf, partly over the groove Rf, and the panels are spaced by a distance X1, as shown in Fig. 5i. At a further position BB along the panel, the protrusion Pm is directly above the protrusion Pf, and the panels are spaced at a greater distance X2, as shown in Figure 5h.

Now, apply downward pressure or force F at a location between location 85 and BB to begin connecting the joint to the panel. This force is transmitted between panels that touch each other, for example, position 85 and BB. At most points of mutual contact, the protrusion Pf reaches the left side of the tip of the protrusion Pf and partially overhangs the groove Rf. It should also be realized that, due to the curvature of the faces Cm3 and Cf3, the protrusion Pf has a natural tendency to slide into the groove Rf.

Therefore, when the force F is transmitted to the contact surface of the joints Jm and Jf, it will first be decomposed into several force components, including the lateral (transverse) component force pushing the joint Jf into the groove, thereby pushing the panel 12b to move towards the panel 12a. The distance between the panels on end 87 is correspondingly reduced. As the position of force application moves closer to end 87 along panel 12b, the proximity effect will continue until the protrusion Pm at end 87 is located above the groove Rf (as shown in Figure 5j) and the panels are fully aligned (as shown in shown in Figure 5k). Thus, the panels will self-align when pushed by the downward engaging force. Of course, if the force F is sufficient, then in addition to self-alignment, the joints Jm and Jf will also be fully engaged, as shown in Figure 5k. The self-aligning effect combines with the engagement of the joints Jm and Jf to create a zipper-like effect similar to a snap lock bag.

It is also important to understand that floors are often subject to dynamic tensile and compressive stress due to changes in temperature and humidity. It is also subject to static loads from furniture or other household items. If the tensile load exceeds the bearing capacity of the joint, either or both of the protrusions Pm and Pf may crack or break. This has multiple effects. This will relieve tensile stresses in the adjacent areas of the floor. Additionally, this can lead to horizontal separation of cracked panels, creating visible gaps. Furthermore, depending on the prevailing conditions and circumstances, adjacent panels may be displaced vertically, creating height differences.

If the tensile stress is relieved, it will be very difficult to rejoin the separated panels or fully join a new panel. This is because the panels on either side of the rupture still have tensile stress, and the two sides will be pulled away from each other by this force. To restore the floor to its original shape, the two sides must be rejoined. If a new panel is simply placed where the previous panel was, the gap will remain. Homeowners are left with unsightly fillers to fill the gaps created by the separation. This in turn could negatively affect the value of the home. The self-aligning feature of the joint system 10 also facilitates the self-recovery of floor tensile stress when replacing damaged panels, as described below.

Figures 5l–5u detail the release of the tensile stress, the subsequent movement of the panels, and the automatic recovery of the tensile stress. FIG. 5l is a schematic diagram of a floor composed of a plurality of panels 12 . Two panels 12a and 12b are removed and replaced. Assume that there is a tensile stress between the panels 12 as mentioned in the preceding paragraph. If the two panels 12a and 12b are removed to create a gap 31, the floor tensile stress at the gap 31 is naturally released. The panels 12 adjacent to the gap will then disengage from each other, as indicated by arrow 33 in Fig. 5m. This will lead to the enlargement of the gap 31 (Fig. 5n is a schematic diagram of the gap enlargement, and Fig. 5o is an enlarged view) and a longitudinal crack 35 is formed again at the critical line between the panels 12a and 12b before they are removed. Not only is the gap 31 widened. Since the number of panels bearing the tensile stress is now reduced, as the crack 35 continues to expand, the degree of separation between adjacent panels will also increase, or at least the tensile stress will increase. Fig. 5p is a schematic diagram of the panel replacement effect of a conventional vertical or horizontal locking system, and Fig. 5q is a corresponding enlarged view. The new panels 12a1 and 12b1 are inserted into the slot 31, with either end engaging the adjacent panels. However, due to the widening of the gap 31, the newly installed panels 12a1 and 12b1 cannot be fully engaged with each other. The enlarged gap may be only 0.5 to 2mm, but it is enough to be clearly visible on the floor.

Typically, in the case of tongue and groove type locking systems, the tongue part is sawn off in order to avoid a mechanical connection between the panels 12a1 and 12b1. The crack 35 between the panels 12a1 and 12b1 is filled with filler. Obviously, the filler cannot transmit the tensile stress between the panels 12a1 and 12b1. Therefore, the tensile stress of the floor cannot be restored as a whole. Now the tensile stress of the floor will act on both sides of the filler and the crack 35 . This may cause the filler to break and form a new gap 37 between the panels 12a1 and 12b1, as shown in Fig. 5r, and Fig. 5s is a corresponding enlarged view.

Fig. 5t is a schematic diagram of the effect of using a panel or a substrate for installing a connection system according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 5u is an enlarged view. It is assumed that the connection system 10 is provided for all panels 12 in Figures 5l-5s. When the panels 12a and 12b are removed, the crack 35 is still formed, causing the gap 31 to widen. After the new panel 12a1 is installed, it engages with the panels 12c and 12d. Now, panel 12b1 is inserted, with female joint Jf of panel 12a1 below male joint Jm, and male joint Jm of panel 12b1 above female joint Jf of adjacent panels 12e and 12f.

A downward force is applied to the male joint of panel 12a1 located above joint Jf of panel 12b1. In this way, the connectors engage with the corresponding panels. This results in a slight displacement between panel 12b1 and panels 12e and 12f. However, this displacement does not result in a separation beyond the distance X2 as shown in Figure 5h. Now, applying a downward force to the male joint Jm of the panel 12b1, the panels 12b1 and 12e and 12f approach each other. In addition, the panels on either side of the interface 39 between the panels 12a1 and 12b1 approach each other inwardly, as indicated by arrows 33 in Figures 5t and 5u. Eventually, the joints Jm and Jf of panel 12b1 engage 12e and 12f, thereby restoring the tensile stress and structural integrity of the entire floor.

The above describes the situation where the floor is subjected to tensile stress. But the same problem occurs with prior art systems when the floor is under compressive stress, in which case the gap 31 closes. With prior art systems, the panels had to be cut to reduce their width to fit the closing gap. Therefore, there will not be a complete mechanical connection between the newly installed panel and the original panel. loss of structural integrity. Referring to Figures 5l-5u, as described above, the embodiment of the present invention operates in substantially the same manner, but in the "opposite direction" of the above, the gap opening continues to expand and all adjacent panels 12 are mechanically engaged to fully restore structural integrity. Second, this is also very effective for lateral expansion of the gap (up to 2 mm) facing Cf1 etc.

In addition, the self-alignment and "zippering" effects described above also apply when the length of the panel is bent or twisted. Embodiments of the attachment system may have the effect of compressing a curved or twisted portion of a flattened panel to achieve alignment and engagement of the curved panels if the panels that are engaged with the panels are themselves flat rather than curved or twisted panels.

When engaging joints Jm and Jf, a person weighing 70 kg or more applies downforce to joint Jm with a small hop, hop or stomp motion. In this way, connection of adjacent panels 12 can be achieved without the need to implement the constant kneeling action required by prior art systems. Engagement of the joint Jm with the joint Jf can also be facilitated by tapping with a rubber hammer. Its ease of installation not only greatly expands the number of self-installers by reducing technical and strength requirements, but also minimizes physical stress and exertion, benefiting all installers, including professionals. For employers or installation companies, this reduces injury and sick leave for workers. Thereby prolonging the working hours of the staff, increasing the income, and reducing the insurance and claim costs of the employer at the same time.

When using panels 12 with joint system 10 in large areas, such as commercial buildings, engaging joints Jm and Jf requires force or pressure using a modified compactor. A compactor works like a machine used to compact sand before paving is laid, but instead has a soft, smooth, friction-resistant base pad. The padding may include, but is not limited to, rubber, foam, felt, or cardboard.

Now, with particular reference to Figures 6a–9f, the procedure for removal of damaged panels is described. The process of removing damaged panels by means of the relative rotation between the connected panels configured by the connecting system 10 is described in detail below. Figures 6a–6s depict the sequence of removal and replacement steps for a damaged panel. Removal and replacement is accomplished by use of an extraction system consisting of a jack 92 shown in Figures 7a and 7b in combination with a wedge tool 94 shown in Figures 8a and 8b.

Jack 92 is a simple hand screw jack used to remove panels. Screw jack 92 has an elongated threaded shaft 96 with crossbar handle 98 at one end. The threads of the shank 96 engage threaded bosses 100 formed on the clamping plate 102 . The clamping plate 102 is a square, the axle sleeve 100 is located at the very center of the clamping plate, and below is the through hole of the clamping plate 102, through which the threaded shaft 96 can extend. Four through holes 104 are distributed on the splint 102 for engaging corresponding fastening screws 106 .

Wedge tool 94 has a wedge 108 at one end leading to handle 110 . The wedge 108 is composed of a base face 112 (for supporting the face on which the panel 12 is installed) and a reverse face 114 (in contact with and below the major face 16 of the adjacent panel 12 from which the panel is to be removed). Face 114 includes oppositely sloped portions 116 and parallel portions 118 . The ramped portion 116 extends from the front edge 120 of the wedge 108 toward the handle 110 . Face 116 is inclined relative to face 112 , but face 118 is parallel to face 112 and forms an adjacent face with face 116 . The handle 110 is curved so that the free end of the handle 110 is parallel to the end 124 and can move laterally. The end 124 is connected to the wedge 108 .

Figure 6a is a schematic view of a floor area comprising a damaged panel 12b joined to adjacent panels 12 along both sides. For the purpose of describing the method of replacement of a damaged panel 12b, reference is made only to the two panels 12a and 12c to which it is attached, which engage longitudinally along the sides of panel 12b. The three side-by-side interlocking panels 12a, 12b and 12c are configured in an embodiment of the connection system 10 and cover the surface 90, as shown in FIG. 6b. The major face 14 of the center panel 12b is damaged by scratches, cracks, or water damage 126 or the like. It is also to be understood that unless at least one of the panels 12a or 12c is immediately adjacent to a wall, the other panel 12 will interlock with the panels 12a and 12c.

To replace the damaged panel 12b, a drill bit 130 (see Fig. 6d) is used to drill a hole 128 in the panel 12b to facilitate the operation of the jack 92 during the extraction process. The diameter of the bore 128 should be sufficient to allow the shank 96 to pass through. The length of the removed panel 12b determines the number of jacks 92 that may be required. Thus in some cases the extraction process can be accomplished using one jack 92, while in other cases two or more jacks may be required. In this specific example, two jacks 92 are required, as shown in FIG. 6c, but for the convenience of briefly introducing the extraction process, only one of the jacks 92 is referred to.

After the drilling 128 is completed, the splint 102 is placed on the panel 12b, and the sleeve 100 covers the drilling 128, as shown in FIG. 6e. The splint 102 is fixed on the panel 12b by four self-tapping screws 106 passing through the corresponding through holes 104 . As shown in Figure 6f. You can use a homemade battery-operated screwdriver or use a hand screwdriver to tighten the screws.

The next stage of the removal process, shown in FIGS. 6g and 6h , involves engaging the shank 96 with the threaded hub 100 and tightening the threaded shaft 96 using the handle 98 to lift the panel 12b above the face 90 . It should be immediately noted that this operation requires relative rotation of the joints Jm and Jf of panel 12b while remaining engaged with the joints of adjacent panels 12a and 12c. This is a relative counter-rotation, which will be briefly described later. However, there is also simultaneous positive rotation between the panels engaged on both sides of panels 12a and 12c opposite panel 12b.

The jack 92 is used to lift the damaged panel 12b longitudinally by a distance sufficient to allow counter-rotation between the damaged panel 12b and adjacent panels 12a and 12c. The reverse rotation angle range is 7o–10o. This is specifically illustrated in Figure 6h, where as shown there is an angle Θ1 between the major faces 14 of panels 12a and 12b; and an angle Θ2 between the major faces 14 of panels 12b and 12c. Before lifting panel 12d, it should be understood that, assuming face 90 is planar, angles Θ1 and Θ2 will be 180°. The formation of negative angles between adjacent panels 12 indicates that the angle θ1 exceeds 180°. The portion of angles θ1 and θ2 that exceed 180° during detachment is equal to the portion of the process in which the panels are rotated in reverse. For example, if angle θ1 is 187°, the relative counter-rotation angle between panels 12a and 12b is 7°.

Those skilled in the art should understand that longitudinal lifting of any prior art system that inserts into the tongue or groove of an adjacent panel and has a transverse protrusion (eg tongue) without cutting the tongue or breaking the panel with the tongue , is simply not possible. So if this operation is attempted with a prior art system, it is likely to result in one or more previously undamaged panels being damaged or even requiring replacement.

In the connection system, the panel combined with the embodiment of the connection system can be directly and easily removed by lifting vertically. This uses a drop-down disengagement process, as opposed to the upward disengagement process of the prior art. As a result, the connection system has the longitudinal lifting capability to accomplish disengagement without damaging adjacent panels, which can be achieved using world best practices without removing the entire floor of the wall in the damaged area and/or hiring a professional installer Floor restoration and complete restoration of floor integrity.

The jack 92 mechanically lifts and self-supports the panel 12b, the panels 12a, 12c and the panels adjacent to the panels 12a and 12c. As a result, the installer does not need to lift and support the panels at his own expense. In contrast, some prior art systems use suction cups, such as those used by glazing workers to support sheets of glass, to control the panel to be removed. The installer has to lift the panel with great effort himself. If the panel is also tightly adhered to the face 90, then self-promotion becomes very difficult, almost impossible. The jack 92, however, has mechanical advantages that enable operation in these environments. In addition, since the jack supports the panel 12 by itself, during the maintenance process, the installer can free up both hands to operate, and even leave the vicinity of the panel 12b at will.

The panel 12b is lifted longitudinally using the jack 92 so that the counter-rotation angle of the panel 12b to the adjacent panels 12a and 12c is 7° to 10°. That is, the positions shown in Figures 6h and 9d. In this position, a localized dislocation occurs in the joints Jm and Jf between the panels 12a and 12b. This local dislocation is caused by the fact that the surface Cm1 flips over to the surface Cf1, and the surface 38 suddenly passes the apex of the surface Cf1 with a "clang". Despite the dislocations, the panels can still engage because the protrusion Pf between the faces Cm2 and Cm3 is tightly engaged.

The jack 92 is equipped with a graduated scale that will indicate to the installer when the reverse rotation angle has reached the range of 7o to 10o. The scale consists of a strip of ribbon on the handle 96 which emerges on the hub 100 when the handle is tightened enough to lift the panel enough for the reverse rotation described above. Panels of different thicknesses are available in a variety of ribbons on the handle.

To separate the panel 12b, it is first necessary to separate either panel 12a or 12c with which the female joint Jf engages the panel 12b. In this example, a separate panel 12a is required. An installer working on panel 12 will not immediately know that the panel that needs to be separated is 12a. But it can be easily determined by either: tapping the two panels 12a and 12c lightly; or applying light pressure with the hand and being able to feel the joint move. Due to the orientation of the joints, a light tap causes the panel 12a to completely disengage from the adjacent panel. Thereafter, as shown in Figure 6i, applying downward force or pressure elsewhere along the panel 12a, the joints Jm and Jf on the panels 12a and 12b will completely separate.

The joints Jm and Jf on the panels 12a and 12b go from the panels being fully engaged and lying on the same plane (as shown in Figure 6f) to the disengaged position (as shown in Figure 6h), the interaction between the respective faces will be referred to Figures 9a–9e for details.

Figure 9a is a schematic view of the panels 12a and 12b prior to operation of the jack 92. Equivalent to the panels shown in Figures 6a, 6b and 6d-6g arranged side by side. As the panel 12b is slowly lifted from the face 90 using the jack 92, a slight rotation occurs between the respective joints Jm and Jf. FIG. 9 b is a schematic diagram of the joint Jm of the panel 12 b and the joint Jf of the panel 12 a when the relative rotation angle is about -2°. Now, the adjacent faces 24 and 26 begin to separate, and face Cm1, especially edge 38, begins to lift from face Cf1. At the same time, the face 40 of the protrusion Pm begins to lift from the face 46 of the recess Rf. At the same time, the degree of separation between the upper part of the curved surface and Im3 and If3 also slightly increases. Eventually, the face Cm2 is peeled off from the face Cf2.

FIG. 9c is a schematic diagram of the position effect of continuing to lift the panel 9b until the relative reverse rotation angle between the panels 12a and 12b is about 5°. Here, the degree of separation between the adjacent surfaces 24 and 26 is more obvious, and the surface Cm1, especially the edge 38, is higher than the surface Cf1, but has not yet separated from the surface Cf1. The degree of separation between faces 40 and 46 increases, and face Cm2 is now secured to the deepest part of curved surface If2. This increased pressure/force originates from: the face Cm2 of the neck of the protrusion Pf; and the face Cm1 on the face Cf1.

Continued use of jack 92 further widens the angle between panels 12a and 12b to about -7°, as shown in Figure 9d. At this point, face Cm1 and edge 38 have moved past face Cf1 and lie outside neck 66 of groove Rf. Usually there will be a sound of "clang" to remind the installer. However, the face Cm3 is lower than the face Cf3 to which it engages; the face Cm2 is lower than the face Cf2. Also, now both sides of the protrusion Pf have been compressed or squeezed by the faces Cm3 and Cm2. Therefore, at an angle of -7°, the joints Jm and Jf are still partially engaged, and without any external force, the longitudinal and horizontal locking of the panels 12a and 12b can still be maintained. Furthermore, during the rotation of the joints Jm and Jf up to -7o, the face Cm2 acts as a fulcrum for lifting the protrusion Pm from the groove Rf.

The application of a downward force or force to the panel 12a can produce one or both of the following results: compression of the protrusion Pf; come out. Waxing the joint reduces friction and now assists joint separation. Panel 12a is now free to fall back onto face 90, as shown in Figures 9f and 6i. Therefore, at this time, the panels 12a and 12b are completely detached.

However, to remove the panel 12b, the joint Jf of the panel 12b needs to be disengaged from the joint Jm of the panel 12c. 6j to 6l are schematic flow charts.

Immediately after the panels 12a and 12b are separated, the jack 92 lifts the panel 12b above the surface 90 . To continue the replacement process, it is necessary to unscrew the threaded shaft 96 on the hub 100 of the clamping plate 102 to lower the panel to the surface 90 . In the next step, the installer will grab and lift the joint Jm of the panel 12b to insert the wedge tool 94 between the panels 12a and 12b and push it until the face 118 of the face 114 can be aligned with the major face 16 of the panel 12c and the joint Jm The position of contact with the interior of Jf. Figure 6j is a schematic diagram thereof. Firstly, the face Cm1 of the face plate 12c is disengaged from the face Cf1 in the joint Jf of the face plate 12b by rotating the face plate 12b about -7° to -10° to disengage it from the face plate 12c. A wedge tool 94 is provided to assist the installer in accomplishing the rotation. It is also shown in Figure 6j. Additionally, when wedge 108 is inside joint Jm below panel 12c and panel 12b is moved counterclockwise toward handle 110 , panel 12b will rotate about 7° to 10° before it approaches handle 110 . As the surface Cm1 passes through the surface Cf1 upward from the bottom, there will be a "clang" sound when reaching this position. Figure 9d is a side-by-side schematic diagram of joints Jm and Jf.

Continued application of downward pressure or force, for example using a rubber mallet M (as shown in Figure 6k) can cause the joints Jf and Jm of panels 12b and 12c to disengage completely, as shown in Figure 6l. The damaged panel 12b is now completely detached from both adjacent panels 12a and 12c and can be removed.

To replace the damaged panel 12b with the new panel 12b1, the installer now removes the wedge tool 94 and manually lifts the edge of the panel 12c, then slides the new panel 12b1 under the raised panel 12c so that the joint Jm is at the joint The top of Jf. The other side of the panel 12b1 is located on the panel 12a. Figures 6m-6p are schematic diagrams of the process.

The installer now lowers panel 12c onto panel 12b1. At this point, the male joint Jf of panel 12c is located at the neck 48 of the female joint Jf of panel 12bi; the joint Jm of panel 12b1 will be located at the neck 48 of the previously laid joint Jf of panel 12a. Figure 6q is a schematic diagram thereof.

To fully engage panel 12b1, downward force or pressure is applied to the male joints Jm of panels 12c and 12b1. This can be done in either order, panel 12c followed by panel 12b1, or panel 12b1 followed by panel 12c. FIG. 6q is a schematic diagram of the configuration when the joint Jm of the panel 12c engages with the joint Jf of the panel 12b1 for the first time. Fig. 6r is a schematic diagram of engagement of the joint Jm of the panel 12b1 with the joint Jf of the panel 12a, and Fig. 6s is a schematic diagram of floor restoration. If the panels have not been previously aligned, the process will align according to the connection system auto-alignment function described with reference to Figures 5f-5k.

Rather than having to strip the entire floor, simply removing and replacing only the damaged panels 12 has great practical, commercial and environmental benefits. Summarized as follows:

Panels can be easily replaced by a handyman with limited skills using basic inexpensive equipment. This avoids the need to hire professional installers.

There is no need to chisel or cut panels or sections of panels during the repair process, so repairs are also relatively clean.

Since only damaged panels need to be replaced, there is no need to move furniture which is often difficult and inconvenient to move.

From a retailer's point of view, the initial benefit of such panels is that retailers can encourage buyers to purchase slightly more panels than are required for a given area, in case other panels are damaged and can be replaced. For example, a retailer could explain the benefits of the panel and ask customers to purchase an additional one to three square meters of the panel. It's like when building a new home, homeowners leave excess floor and roof tiles or paint for later touch-ups. The main problem that arises when repairing a damaged floor after the floor has been installed for several years is the difficulty of procuring identical panels. If identical panels cannot be sourced, an entire flat floor may need to be replaced when only a few (eg two or three) panels are damaged. For example, the three bedrooms, hallway, kitchen and family room floors on the first floor of the house all have the same look and feel of wooden floors, forming a continuous floor. Furniture and decor arrangements throughout the house are usually chosen to match the floor. In this case, the entire floor will need to be replaced if no matching replacement panels are available. After a rare storm hit Perth, Western Australia, Australia in March 2010, there was indeed a case of replacing a large area of the floor. Such problems are usually caused by prolonged overflow of refrigerators and drinking water fixtures. Having a small number of panels on hand for replacement can avoid a complete floor replacement. The new and growing wood flooring market uses relatively cheap and varied materials for the panels and uses an inkjet printer to print patterns, for example, wood grains of exotic species on the upper main face 12 . It is worth noting that the patterns are so intricate that trying to correct scratches with an ink pen is next to impossible. Likewise, buying a few extra panels when purchasing the floor initially can save you thousands of dollars. A similar problem exists with wooden flooring, where relatively cheap and varied materials are used to make the floor and to imitate the appearance of more expensive wood imported from foreign countries and to stain the floor.

The commercial impact of replacing an entire floor as described above should not be underestimated. Usually, such cases are paid for by the insurance company. This has, naturally, a knock-on effect of increased insurance premiums and reduced shareholder dividends. At the same time, there is also the issue of time. If the insurance company cannot assess the damage, it will take months to repair the floor.

Now consider the environmental aspect. Typically, wood floor panels are coated with polyurethane or other sealants. There is also the possibility of applying adhesives and glues. This often prevents destruction of damaged boards by incineration due to the generation of toxic gases during incineration. Therefore, damaged planks must be disposed of in landfills.

The connector 10 depicted in Figures 1 to 9f is representative of a number of embodiments. A small number of alternative embodiments will now be described. In describing these embodiments, the same system of reference will be used for the joint 10, with the addition of a numerical suffix to distinguish each particular embodiment of the joint.

10a and 10b depict a second embodiment of a connection system 10a for substrate 12. As shown in FIG. The connection system 10a consists of a male joint Jm and a female joint Jf opposed along two sides. It can be seen that the general arrangement of the connection system 10a is the same as that of the connection system 10 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 . In particular, the male joint Jm comprises male locking surfaces ML1 , ML2 and ML3 , curved surfaces Im1 , Im2 and Im3 and surfaces Cm1 , Cm2 and Cm3 . Likewise, the female joint Jf also includes female locking surfaces FL1, FL2, and FL3, curved surfaces If1, If2, and If3, and surfaces Cf1, Cf2, and Cf3. The relative positions of the locking surfaces, curved surfaces and other surfaces of the connection system 10a are generally the same as the connection system 10 . However, there are slight differences in the specific shape and surface depth. In particular, the face Cm1 in the joint 10 a is continuously curved, unlike the ridge 38 of the connection system 10 . Furthermore, the engaging curved surfaces Im1 and If1 are shallower, so that the spacing 76 and 78 relative to the locking plane 18 is smaller than that of the connection system 10 . Comparing Figure 10b with Figure 1b, this subtle difference can be seen. Furthermore, the depth of the curved surfaces Im3 and If3 becomes smaller, to the extent that there is no equivalent of the space 80 on the connection system 10 . At the same time, it can also be seen that the curved surfaces Im2 and If2 in the joint system 10a are shallower than the corresponding surfaces in the joint system 10, resulting in less overlapping of the surfaces Cf2 and Cm2 when the joints Jm and Jf on adjacent panels 12 are engaged. few.

Connection system 10a can be used in the same environment as system 10 and from the same materials. However, due to the shallow depth of the curved surface I, the connection system 10a is more suitable for relatively rigid substrates, such as but not limited to bamboo boards, so that when passing through the necks of the corresponding grooves Rm and Rf, the protrusions Pm and Pf2 The compressibility of will be limited.

Figures 11a to 11d further illustrate an embodiment of the connection system 10b provided on opposite sides of the substrate 12. The substantial differences of the connection systems 10b and 10 are: (a) the configuration of the immediately adjacent curved surfaces Im3 and If3; (b) the removal of the groove 42 on the protrusion Pm and the similar groove on the face 58 of the groove Rf Formation of 42f.

Generally speaking, since the curved surfaces Im3 and If3 do not have a smooth or continuous curvature over their entire length, they are generally "pointy". For example, the face Cm3 (part of the curved surface Im3 ) has a narrow edge 140 similar to the edge 38 described on the protrusion Pm of the connection system 10 . In addition, the curved surface Im3 also has “V”-shaped gear teeth 142 extending toward the base 52 of the groove R. As shown in FIG. On the female joint Jf, the face Cf3 is ground to a narrow edge 144 . As shown in FIG. 11 b , when the joints Jm and Jf are engaged, the tips 145 of the gear teeth 142 abut against the face Cf3 below the narrow edge 144 .

The purpose and effect of the structural changes of the curved surfaces Im3 and If3, especially the structural changes of the gear tooth 142 and the surfaces Cf3 and Cm3 provided to achieve a relative rotation angle of 5° to 10° or more between the joints when the meshing state is maintained , thereby aiding the installation of panels on uneven surfaces. This is shown in Figures 11c and 11d. Compared with the panel 12a, the external screw connection panel 12b has the most obvious function of increasing the degree of rotation in the positive or upward direction. After the tip 145 of the gear tooth 142 has passed the edge 144, the face Cm3 abutting against the protrusion Pf in the groove Rf provides a facilitation for this. Therefore, the protrusion Pf remains compressed between the faces Cm3 and Cm2, so that the horizontal and vertical engagement is maintained. The connection system 10b enables a panel to rise obliquely relative to an adjacent horizontal panel, ie a raised cross or floor trim.

12a and 12b further describe an embodiment of a substrate 12 mounted connection system 10c. Connection systems 10c and 10 differ substantially with respect to aspect ratio. Compared with the connection system 10, the connection system 10c can be used for substrates having a smaller thickness. Due to the smaller thickness and depth of the base plate 12, the male joint Jm and the female joint Jf of the connection system 10c are shallower and wider. The visual comparison between the protrusions Pm and the grooves Rf of the connection systems 10c and 10 is most striking. In the connection system 10c, the protrusion Pm is wider and has a flatter bottom surface 42, as does the groove Rf. The widening of the protrusion Pm is also the effect of the sharpening of the profile of the surface Cm3. However, the operation method and effect of the connection system 10c are the same as the connection system 10. In particular the remaining three vertical locking planes 18 , 20 and 74 and the respective base plate 12 can be rotated relative to each other by 3° in opposite directions.

13a and 13b further describe an embodiment of a connection system 1Od applied to a substrate 12. As shown in FIG. The substantial difference between the connection systems 10d and 10 is the depth and relative disposition of the intermediate surfaces Im3 and If3, and the width of the protrusions P and grooves R. In the connection system 10d, the curved surfaces Im3 and If3 are shallow and deviated towards the horizontal direction (for example towards the plane containing the main faces 14 and 16). Therefore, when the male joint Jm and the female joint Jf are engaged, only the internal and external locking planes 18 and 20 are formed, and the third locking plane 74 introduced in the previous connection system embodiment is not formed. In the connection system 10d, there is no point on the curved surface Im3 that is vertically below the point on the curved surface If3 and laterally within it. Furthermore, the protrusion P and the groove R of the connection system 1Od are wider. This provides greater horizontal shear forces along the shear planes S1 and S2 which can be transmitted to the projections Pm and Pf parallel to the main faces 14 and 16 . This favors panels of smaller thickness (eg, 3-7 mm), otherwise susceptible to shear forces along shear planes S1 and S2. In practice, however, connection system 1Od operates in the same manner as connection systems 10-10c in a vertical system, and adjacent substrates 12 can be rotated relative to each other by 3° without separation.

14a and 14b show a further embodiment of the application of the connection system 10e in the substrate 12 . Connection system 12 embodies the same basic concepts as connection system 10, in particular having extreme (or innermost and outermost) locking surfaces, curved surfaces and laterally extending surfaces that form respective locking planes 18 and 20 and can be positioned at There is relative rotation between the externally threaded joint Jf and the internally threaded joint Jm connected to the substrate 12 . Also, since all embodiments of connection system 10e are vertical systems, the joints are engaged by applying pressure in a direction perpendicular to major surfaces 14 and 16 . However, it is also apparent from comparison with connection system 10e that connection system 10 has a number of differences in the specific configuration of protrusions P and grooves R on either male or female joints Jf and Jr.

Beginning with the male joint Jm in system 10e, there is a chamfer 146 between the main surface 14 and the side end surface 24 . Furthermore, the connection system 10 e forms a right-angled notch 148 between the side end face 24 and the curved face Im1 . The protrusion Pm is more symmetrical than the protrusion in the connection system 10 and has a central slot extending in a direction perpendicular to the main surfaces 14 and 16 . Furthermore, the face 40 of the protrusion Pm is flat rather than curved. The groove 150 can provide a certain elasticity to the protrusion Pm. The elasticity is not to affect the engagement of the protrusion Pm with the groove Rf, but to provide elastic force to assist the rotation of the protrusion Pm in the groove Rf.

This protrusion Pf is more rounded than the corresponding protrusion Pf in the system 10 and also has a groove 152 extending parallel to the groove 150 . The groove 152 also provides spring force for the protrusion Pf, assisting its rotation in the socket Rm. At the bottom end 34 of the groove Rf, the face 58 is flat and remains parallel to the main surfaces 14 and 16 and the face 40 . On the female joint Jf, a square shoulder 154 is formed between the curved surface If1 and the side surface 26 . As shown in Figure 14b, shoulder 154 engages notch 148 when joints Jf and Jm are engaged. A further difference in configuration of the connection system 10e is that, at the joint Jm, an inclined surface 156 between the curved surface Im2 and the chamfered surface 56 is provided.

It can be seen from FIG. 14 b that, like the connection system 10 , there are three vertical locking planes 18 , 20 and 74 in the connection system 10 e. Space 158 is formed between faces 40 and 58 when male fitting Jm engages female fitting Jf. This space can be used to collect debris in the same manner as the void 44 shown in Figure 1b.

Figures 15a and 15b illustrate a further embodiment when bonding the connection system 1Of to the substrate 12. Compared with the system 10, in the connection system 10f, the position of the externally threaded joint Jm and the internally threaded joint Jf are shallower and the shape is more square. The male joint Jm includes a curved surface If1 and a corresponding surface Cm1 on the outermost surface and a curved surface Im2 and a corresponding surface Cm2 on the innermost surface. There is also an intermediate surface Cm3, but no intermediate curved surface Im3. The female joint Jf is constituted as follows: respective faces Cf1 and Cf2 on the innermost and outermost surfaces of the joint; and a curved face If2. However, the connection system 10f contains neither the intermediate curved surface If3 nor the curved surface If2 on the outermost surface of the female threaded joint.

Compared with the connection system 10, the shape of the protrusion P and the groove R in the connection system 10f is more square. This provides the same improved shear strength as in connection system 1Od. When the substrate 12 is incorporated into the connection system 10f, it engages two locking planes 18 (formed by faces Cf1 and Cm1 ) and 20 (formed by faces Cf2 and Cm2 ). The two-dimensional surfaces 25 and 27 formed on the protrusions Pm and Pf, respectively, constitute "quasi" intermediate locking surfaces. Faces 25 and 27 are perpendicular to main surface 14 . Joints Jm and Jf engage faces 25 and 27 adjacent to each other. It provides a frictional lock against the relative movement of the joints Jm and Jf in the vertical plane. It has a similar effect to the locking plane 74 in the connection system 10f but less so. The face 40 of the protrusion Pm and the face 58 of the recess Rf abut to form a vertical intercept between the bonded substrates 12 .

A further configuration difference between connection systems 10f and 10 is that chamfered surfaces 56 and 64 , which lead faces 50 and 62 respectively to main surface 16 , are omitted in connection system 10f. Thus, in the connection system 10f, the faces 54 and 66 extend directly from the respective faces Cm2 and Cf2 to the main surface 16 .

Figures 16a and 16b depict a deeper connection system 10g suitable for panels made of plastic material (vinyl or other relatively soft/pliable material). In the connection system 10g, various curved surfaces or laterally extending surfaces are formed to form one or more two-dimensional surfaces. However, on each of the extreme locking planes 18 and 20 there is still at least one arcuate surface extending laterally outwards, facilitating rolling motion such as rotation between the webs 12 . More specifically, it can be seen that the protrusion Pm in the connection system 10f constitutes a first locking surface ML1 and has an abutment surface 24 and an adjacent curved surface Im1. The curved surface Im1 includes an inwardly inclined two-dimensional surface 160 (originating from surface 24 ) and another two-dimensional surface 162 (extending parallel to surface 24 and adjacent to surface 160 ). Thereafter, the curved surface Im1 forms an arc or smoothly curved surface Cm1. The face Cm1 forms the two-dimensional base 40 of the protrusion Pm (in a plane parallel to the main surfaces 14 and 16 ). The face 40 is adjacent to the middle smooth curved face Cm3. However, grooves 163 (located perpendicular to the main surface 14 ) have replaced the grooves 42 of the previously mentioned embodiment example. The groove 163 enhances the compression ability of the protrusion Pm in the groove Rm, and facilitates the rotation in the groove Rm.

The inclined two-dimensional plane extends from the surface Cm3 to form the two-dimensional surface of the groove Rm. Surface 52 is located parallel to main surface 14 . The two-dimensional surface 164 and the surface Cm3 jointly constitute the intermediate curved surface Im3 and the third male locking plane ML3. There is also an acute angle where face 164 and face Cm3 meet. The innermost surface ML2 of the male joint Jm includes an angular curved surface Im2 and a two-dimensional surface 56 . The curved face Im2 constitutes adjacent two-dimensional faces 166 and 168, which are inclined relative to each other, forming a general depression in the groove Rm, but with angled or pointed corners. The curved surface Im2 further constitutes another two-dimensional surface 170 which extends perpendicularly to the main surfaces 14 and 16 . This face then enters the chamfered face 56 to form the main surface 16 .

The female joint Jf has a first female locking surface FL1 constituting an abutment face 26 extending perpendicularly to the main face 14 and to the adjacent curved face If1. The curved surface If1 consists of a two-dimensional surface 172 inclined to the groove Rf, a two-dimensional surface 174 parallel to the surface 26, and a smoothly curved concave surface forming the surface 58 at the bottom of the groove Rf. The upper portion of face 176, faces 172 and 174 collectively form a laterally extending face generally in the form of convex cam Cf1. The face 58 of the bottom 34 of the groove Rf is flat and parallel to the main surface 14 . Thereafter, the female joint Jf constitutes an intermediate plane If3, which can be regarded as the inverse form of the curved plane Im3. Therefore, the curved surface If3 constitutes the two-dimensional surface 180 inclined in the direction of the main surface 14 and the continuous smooth curved surface Cf3. Surface Cf3 is joined to two-dimensional surface 60 parallel to main surface 14 . The outermost side of the female joint Jf in the system 10f is formed by a second female locking surface FL2, which has a smooth curved surface Cf2, from which a two-dimensional surface 62 is produced, followed by an inwardly chamfered surface 64, which produces main surface 16.

In a direction perpendicular to major surfaces 14 and 16, application of force or pressure engages joints Jm and Jf. From Fig. 16d it is evident that the connection system 10f produces three locking planes 18, 20 and 74 due to the relative juxtaposition of the faces Cf1 and Cm1, Cm1 and Cm2, Cm3 and Cf3. Also, in the engaged joint, the faces Cm1 and Cm3 are located in the intersection corner of the concave surface Rf, while the smooth curved faces Cf2 and Cf3 are located in the intersection angle formed in the groove Rm. In this embodiment, it should be noted that there is still an arc or smooth curved surface C on each locking plane of the inner layer and the outermost layer. In particular, in the locking plane 18 the smooth curved surface Cm1 can roll against the face of the joint Jf, while in the locking plane 20 the arcuate surface Cf2 can roll on the face of the male joint Jm. In addition, the asymmetric configuration of the joints Jm and Jf gaps or spaces created between the mating surfaces further assists relative rotation between the joints and allows for extension.

Figures 17a and 17b further describe a seaming system 10h based on and very similar to the joining system 10f. In particular, system 10h has the same general shape and configuration as system 10g, with the substantial differences being the absence of slot 163 and the shortened length in chamfered planes 56 and 64. This shortened length is a function of the thickness of the substrate 12h (thicker than the substrate 12g). In a non-limiting example, substrate 12g bonded to connection system 10g may have a thickness of approximately 5.2 millimeters, while substrate 12h bonded to connection system 10h may have a thickness of approximately 3.5 millimeters.

In all other respects, the configuration and function of the connection system 10h is the same as that of the connection system 10h.

Figures 17c to 17e illustrate additional features of embodiments of the joint system, introducing the ability to produce the system and panels of varying thicknesses using a single tool set. Figures 17a and 17b depict a connection system 10h constructed in a panel 12 having a nominal thickness of 3mm. In Figures 17c and 17d, a nominal thickness of 3 millimeters is marked as the innermost horizontal lines 14a and 16a. These lines represent major surfaces 14 and 16 of panel 12 . The next pair of adjacent lines 14b and 16b represent the major surfaces of the panel 12 (if the thickness is 3.5mm). Outwardly adjacent sets of lines 14c and 16c, 14d and 16d, 14e and 16e, 14f and 16f represent major surfaces 14 and 16 of panel 12 having thicknesses of 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm and 7 mm, respectively. Figure 17e provides perspective views of panels 12 of different thicknesses. As explained in more detail below, the ability to fabricate the joint system in panels of different thicknesses using a single set of cutting tools has advantages over the prior art. A deep feature of this technique is that despite variations in panel 12 thickness, the joints Jm and Jf maintain consistent physical dimensions with the interlocking surfaces. Therefore, the strength of the inter-panel engagement is not affected by variations in the thickness of the panels.

Figures 18a and 18b depict a further embodiment of the connection system 1Oi. The connection system 10i can be regarded as a hybrid combining various functions of the previously described connection systems. The male joint Jf and the female joint Jm comprise a ball or bulb as a protrusion P and a groove R with a smooth or continuously curved surface. The respective faces C of the male joint Jf and the female joint Jm are arranged to provide three locking planes 18, 20 and 74 when interengaged as described in Figure 18b. The male and female fittings include two-dimensional stepped surfaces 148 and 154 parallel to major surface 14 similar to connection system 10e. In fact, the connection system 10i can be considered as a modification of the connection system 10i, but with the following differences: enlargement of the respective protrusions P and grooves R; slanting of the edges from perpendicular to the main surface 14 to faces 24 and 26; face Cf1 A part of the curved surface If1 between the upper end of Cm2 and the upper end of 154 is flattened; in order to directly extend from Cm2 to the main surface 16, the chamfered surface 56 is extended. It should also be noted from the comparison between Figures 18b and 14b that there is now a gap 82 between the two-dimensional faces 40 and 52, and a gap between the faces 154 and 148 between the mating joints Jm and Jf. The connection system 10i operates in the same manner as the previously described connection systems with respect to engagement, disengagement and rolling operations between joints.

Figures 19a and 19b depict a further embodiment of the connection system 1Oj. Both protrusions Pm and Pf have grooves 163 and 152, respectively, similar to seaming system 10e. In the connection system 10j, the surfaces Cm1, Cm2, Cm3, Cf1 and Cf3 are all smooth curved surfaces. However, the surface Cf2 on the female joint Jf is angled and is composed of a plurality of adjacent two-dimensional surfaces. However, as shown in Figure 19b, when the joints Jm and Jf are engaged, the locking surfaces ML1 and FL1, ML2 and FL2, ML3 and FL3 form the three locking planes 18, 20 and 74 as previously described. In each of the outermost locking planes 18 and 20, there is a continuous bend in the two respective mating faces. In particular in the locking planes 18 and 20, the faces Cm1 and Cm2 are continuously curved. This maintains the ability of the connection system to provide positive and negative relative rotation and release, so damaged base plates should be moved and replaced in the same manner as described in the previous embodiments. Connection system 10j still further includes faces 146 and 154 , similar to subsystem 10e , but in this case these faces are offset at acute interior angles relative to major surface 14 . In addition, the protrusions Pm and the grooves Rf are arranged in opposition to form a relatively large space or gap 190 between the faces 40 and 58 . The grooves 152, 163 provide an internal suspension system, enabling compression of the protrusions Pm and grooves Pf, assisting the rolling motion.

Figures 20a and 20b depict a further embodiment of the connection system 10k. The continuous curved surfaces Cm1, Cm2 and Cm3 constitute the protrusion Pm. On the negative side, the angled faces Cf2 and Cf3 constitute the protrusion Pf, and the face Cf1 includes adjacent two-dimensional faces 191 , 192 and 193 . Face Cf3 includes adjacent two-dimensional faces 194 , 195 and 196 . Both faces 191 and 194 generate face 60 of protrusion Pf (parallel to main surface 14 ). Faces 192 and 195 both extend perpendicular to major surface 14 , while faces 193 and 196 are sloped toward each other, face 193 creating oppositely sloped face 162 which in turn creates chamfered face 64 inscribed but substantially parallel to face 193 . Face 64 produces main surface 16 . The path 34 of the groove Rf is formed by a two-dimensional face 46 located parallel to the main surface 14 and offset outwardly by opposite faces 197 and 198 . Surface 198 produces inwardly inclined surface 199 , which in turn forms adjacent two-dimensional surface 200 . Face 200 is positioned perpendicular to major surface 14 and engages face 154 . The combination of faces 196 and 197 and faces 198 and 199 constitute the respective recesses for placing faces Cm1 and Cm3 as explicitly shown in Fig. 20b.

Looking at the male joint Jm, it will be seen that the other end of the face 52 in the groove Rm creates successive outwardly sloping faces 201 and 202 . Surface 201 then produces a two-dimensional surface 203, which produces surface Cm2. On the other side, a face 202 is formed adjacent to the other two-dimensional face 204, which then produces a face Cm3. Faces 203 and 204 are located perpendicular to main surface 14 . At the junction, the faces 201 , 203 and part of the face Cm2 form a groove for the face Cf2. Likewise, the combination of faces 202, 204 and part of face Cm3 constitutes another recess for placing face Cf3.

The protrusion Pm is also composed of a two-dimensional surface 205 that is located perpendicular to the main surface 14 and extends between the surface Cm1 and the surface 148 . When joints Jm and Jf are engaged, faces 205 and 204 are spaced apart, while respective faces 148 and 154, and faces 26 and 24 are adjoining.

Figures 21a and 20b depict a further embodiment of the connection system 101. The protrusion Pm has a male locking surface ML1 starting from the main surface 14, initially having a small chamfer (similar to the chamfer shown in connection systems 10e and 10i) and extending downwards, ending in a smooth curved surface Cm1. The first male locking surface ML1 also constitutes a curved surface Im1 comprising a two-dimensional surface portion 220 and extending from the chamfered surface 146 towards the surface Cm1 .

Protrusion Pm also includes groove 158 similar to that in connection system 10e. The protrusion Pm is formed with a distal curved surface 40 and a generally symmetrical configuration with the midline passing through the slot 158 . To this end, the line of shortest pitch 50 spans the neck of the protrusion Pm (which lies in a plane parallel to the main surface 14 ). The groove 158 in the protrusion Pm expands outwards near the face 40 to form two prongs or branches with rounded or curved ends 221 .

On the side of the protrusion Pm opposite the curved surface IM1, the third curved surface Im3 and the corresponding third male locking plane ML3 are smoothly curved and produce a two-dimensional surface 52 in the bottom 32 of the groove Rm. Surface 52 is located parallel to main surface 14 . On the opposite side of the groove Rm, the joint Jm is formed with a second male locking surface ML2, from which a smooth curved surface IM2 is formed, from which a beveled surface 56 is subsequently produced.

The first female locking surface FL1 in the joint Jf forms a short chamfer 155 starting from the main surface 14 , forming a short chamfer followed by a two-dimensional plane 222 extending perpendicularly to the main surface 14 . The face 222 produces a curved face If1 which is smoothly curved and extends towards the bottom 34 of the groove Rf. The base 34 has a two-dimensional surface 46 extending parallel to the main surface 14 . This face 46 produces a third curved face If3, which is smoothly curved and conforms to the third female locking surface FL3. The distal surface of the female protrusion Pf extends between the second female locking surface FL2 and the third female locking surface FL3 and is located on a plane parallel to the main surface 14 . The second female locking surface FL2 continues in a smoothly curved manner towards the main surface 16 , beyond the curved surface IF2 , and subsequently produces the chamfered surface 64 .

As can be seen in FIG. 21 b , each respective male and female locking surface engages a respective curved surface against a respective locking plane 18 , 20 and 74 .

In a further variation of the embodiment of the attachment system 101 , the shortly detailed adhesive bead B (shown in phantom) may be received in the opening of the slot 158 . This provides additional vertical locking between the mated panels as well as between the bumpers.

Figure 22 depicts a further embodiment of the joint system 10m using separate but engaged panels 12a and 12b of the joints Jf and Jm. The connection system 10m is similar to the connection system 10 described in Figures 1a-2, the main difference being the configuration of the faces Cm3 and If3 in the male protrusion Pf. In connection system 10m, face Cf3 extends further laterally outwardly so as to hook under face Cf3 when Jm and Jf are engaged. This provides greater resistance along the median plane 74 compared to the connection system 10 . Also, face Cf3 has small ridges or grooves 38, similar to the configuration and effect of peaks 38 in face Cm1. Due to the configuration of the face Cf3, when the joint Jm is turned in a negative direction relative to the joint Jf, the gripping or crushing of the protrusion Pf between the faces Cm3 and Cm2 increases. The joint Jm is particularly, but not exclusively, suitable for use with panels or substrates made of softer materials.

Figures 23a and 18b depict a further embodiment of the connection system 10n. Connection system 10m differs from connection system 10 described in FIGS. 1-3b by providing three additional grooves, namely groove 42b, which is located at the bottom of groove Rf; groove 42c, which is located at the bottom of groove Rm; The groove 42d is located on the protrusion Pf. The groove 42d is located so that when the joints Jm and Jf are engaged, the grooves 42 and 42b face each other, thereby forming a generally cylindrical or elliptical space 230 . Likewise, grooves 42c and 42d are positioned to face each other when joints Jm and Jf are engaged so as to form another generally oval space 232 . The space 230 may be used as a barrier or a space to collect dust and other debris generated during laying of the substrates 12 in the joining system Jm.

Alternatively, one of the grooves 42 and 42b may be provided with pre-applied re-stickable elastic adhesive and configured to extend into the other of the grooves 42 and 42b. The expression "repositionable adhesive" throughout the specification and requirements refers to an adhesive that can be removed and reattached and that does not set or harden into a strong rigid mass and that maintains flexibility over a long period of time (e.g. many years) , elasticity and viscosity properties. Re-adhesive properties mean that when applied to a second side, the adhesive can thereafter be removed by pulling or shearing and re-applied if desired (e.g. up to 10 times) without significant degradation of subsequent bonding. of bond strength. Thus, adhesives may provide removable or non-permanent fixation. The properties of flexibility and elasticity require that the adhesive not solidify, harden or be processed, but still maintain a certain degree of flexibility, toughness and elasticity. Such adhesives are commonly referred to as fugitive or "snot" glues and pressure sensitive hot melts. Examples of commercially available adhesives that may be used in embodiments of the present invention include, but are not limited to: SCOTCH-WELD ^™ Low Melt Adhesive Glue and GLUEDOTS ^™ from Glue Dot International of Wisconsin.

It is worth noting that the manufacturer of the re-bonding glue/adhesive may advise that the adhesive is not suitable for use with the particular material. For example wood. However, the use of such adhesives is not precluded when the connection system is installed on wooden or wood-based panels. This is due to the fact that wooden or wood-based panels are often coated with polymer sealants or other coatings. Therefore, this adhesive may be used on polymer-coated wooden or wood-based panels if the manufacturer recommends use on the polymer surface.

Alternatively, both grooves 42 and 42b may be provided with a rebondable adhesive so that the two grooves engage each other when joints Jm and Jf are engaged.

In a similar manner, one or both of the grooves 42c and 42d may be provided with a rebondable bead of adhesive of the type described below. When adhesive is provided for only one of the grooves 42c and 42d, the adhesive may be configured as a bead so as to extend into the other of the grooves 42c and 42d. However, when adhesive is used on both sides, the adhesive material can be formed from less thickness or depth of adhesive while still beaded.

Adhesive materials are provided with various effects. First, it assists in minimizing the possibility of vertical or horizontal separation during the normal useful life of the substrate 12 . In addition, the adhesive acts as a seal to prevent moisture from entering major surface 16 from major surface 14 through the joint or from seeping through the surface in the opposite direction when substrate 12 is laid. Furthermore, due to the unique removal system described above, the rebondable adhesive does not interfere with the ability to remove and replace one or more damaged substrates 12 . Because the adhesive is rebondable and in particular does not set or cure, the removal system remains effective for the removed panel or panels 12 without damaging the connection of adjacent adjoining panels 12 that are not removed.

Another function of the connection system 10n is that the locking surfaces ML3 and FL3 each have two-dimensional faces 210 and 212 (both parallel to the locking plane 74). The faces are pressed together when joints Jm and Jf are engaged. If wax is not applied to these faces, they will provide friction to the intermediate locking plane 74 . Such frictional intermediate locking surfaces are mounted on the other surfaces mentioned above.

In the embodiment shown in Figures 23c-23i, the adhesive is only applied in the two grooves of the male joint Jm, not the female joint Jf. In such embodiments, due to the nature of the rebondable adhesive, when the substrate 12 is removed from the adjacent adjoining substrates, the adhesive remains in the grooves 42 and 42c of the removed substrate. Furthermore, the nature of the adhesive is such that it remains in the groove originally provided. This is illustrated in Figures 23c-23i, which show step by step the disengagement process of the joints Jm and Jf of the connection system 10n.

Figure 23c shows joints Jm and Jf prior to engagement. Both grooves 42 and 42c have respective beads B1 and B2 of rebondable adhesive 300 coated with release strips R1 and R2. There is no adhesive in grooves 42b and 42d.

Figure 23d shows that after removal of the release strips R1 and R2, the joints Jm and Jf are fully engaged so that the re-bondable adhesive 300 in the beads B1 and B2 can be attached to the surfaces of the grooves 42b and 42d.

Figures 23e-23i show the typical disengagement process of joints Jm and Jf in any embodiment of the connection system. Initially, the joint Jm rotates counterclockwise relative to the joint Jf, releasing the protrusion Pm from the groove Rf, and subsequently applying downward pressure on the female joint Jf. The rebondable adhesive is able to flex and move during separation, allowing rotation, and then be pulled from grooves 42b and 42d to remain in grooves 42 and 42c.

The bead bonded to joint J can also absorb debris in the groove where bead B is attached. For example, the bead B attached in the groove 42 can absorb debris in the groove 42b to which the bead B is attached. Debris is initially attached to the outer surface of bead B. As panel 12 moves during normal use, bead B also moves and rotates. This has the effect of drawing the fragments into the adhesive, so that the adhesive wraps around the fragments and provides a new bonding surface to adhere to the groove 42b.

In each of the previously described embodiments, one or more beads may be provided to provide additional vertical and horizontal locking strength while ensuring full operation and benefits of the embodiment. This can be done, for example, by providing one or more grooves 42 in the joint Jm or Jf. Depending on the thickness of the bead, receiving grooves may or may not be required on the other joints Jm and Jf. Think of the act of providing a rebondable adhesive as providing an additional locking plane to the joining system.

Typically, adhesive is placed in only one of the two mutually facing grooves 42, as shown in the examples above. When the adhesive is initially placed in the groove, the adhesion is stronger than when the adhesive contacts the surface of the opposite groove in the other substrate. Thus, when the substrate is removed, the adhesive originally applied to the substrate will remain on the substrate.

In all the embodiments of the connection system 10 described above, it should be noted that the protrusions Pm and Pf are configured differently, ie not interchangeable. Also, the configurations of the grooves Rm and Rf are different, ie not interchangeable. More specifically, the respective engaging protrusions and grooves are not complementary configurations. Therefore, the protrusions Pm and Pf, the grooves Rm and Rf, and the joints Jm and Jf are all asymmetrical. Thus, when the projection is engaged in the groove R, a void or space is formed between the male and female locking surfaces ML1 , FL1 and ML2 , FL2 at the inner and outer locking planes 18 and 20 . This helps provide the ability to roll or rotate in opposite directions (up to 3°) in embodiments of the attachment system by providing room for the protrusion to rotate but not disengage. This in turn contributes to the ease of use of the connection system and its success on undulating floors. This will be appreciated by those skilled in the art as it meets the specific needs of a flooring system in the DIY market where systems that have long been used to date require a high quality underlying surface for successful installation.

Because the specific configuration of the present joining system meets the specific requirements of the embodiments of the invention, particularly that they are a true vertical system, manufacturers can produce panels with a wide range of thicknesses using a single set of cutting tools. For example, for manufactured or natural wood substrates, a single cutting tool can produce joint systems on panels ranging from 20mm to 8mm, all that is required is an adjustment to the cutting depth. Likewise, using plastic panels such as LVT, as shown and described in Figures 17c-17e, a single set of cutting tools can produce joint systems in panels ranging from 7 mm to 3 mm. This has significant commercial advantages, reducing production costs that are passed on to consumers.

The cost of a complete joint system cutting tool typically ranges from $30,000 to $50,000. Typically, a set of cutting tools for prior art joints can be used for two different thicknesses. For example, one set for joints on panels with a thickness of 7-6 mm; the second set for joints on panels with a thickness of 5-4 mm. It also takes about 3 hours to replace a set of cutting tools, and then several hours to assemble a new set of tools to the cutting machine. Next, several test runs are performed and the product is evaluated to fine-tune tooling and machine settings before starting full-scale production again. If adjustments are only required when changing the depth of cut, then the cost of a new cutting tool is zero and the total downtime is reduced to about 1 hour. An added benefit is the relatively small scale of production, enabling relatively small production runs to be completed at relatively low cost to larger productions. This can increase competitiveness, which in turn benefits consumers.

As shown in Figures 24a-26e, a semi-floating/semi-direct adhesive surface covering system may be provided by a number of substrates 12 incorporating any of the attachment systems 10 described above and further incorporating a rebondable adhesive attached to the first major surface 16 300. The re-adhesive adhesive 300 is used to attach a sealant or sealing film (not shown), which is used to attach the lower surface of the adhesive 300 . There are many sealants commercially available that can perform this function. Such sealers may include, for example, BONDCRETE(TM) or CROMMELIN(TM) concrete sealers. The type of sealant used depends only on the type of surface to which the semi-floating surface covering system is applied. The purpose is to prevent the generation of dust which may interfere with the bond strength of the blue adhesive 300 .

Others have used glue to attach the substrate to the floor in the past. Adhesives, in particular, have been used to bond wood floors to the underlying surface. However, to the best of the investor's knowledge, all such systems use specially designed glues that set or cure to a strong bond. In the world of wood or wood flooring, this is known as "direct bonded" flooring. There have been proposals to use an adhesive that takes an hour or two to set or cure, allowing the installer to remove the floor during installation to ensure proper alignment. In fact, it has also been proposed to use adhesives that can take up to 28 days to fully cure or harden.

Some consumers prefer direct-bonded flooring to floating flooring because it gives a more solid feel and there is no noticeable bounce or creaking or creaking when walking on it. One disadvantage of direct bonded flooring, however, is that it is messy to use and difficult to remove and/or repair one or more damaged panels after the adhesive has cured (by design). Removing direct bonded panels typically requires the use of a power tool to first penetrate a section of the panel and then use very high force to scrape away residue from the panels and adhesive from the underlying surface. This operation generates a lot of dust and noise and, of course, because it usually takes a corresponding amount of time, entails an enormous amount of expense.

The use of the re-bondable adhesive described above for the substrate 12 incorporating the attachment system allows for a semi-floating surface covering system that provides the benefits of both conventional floating surface coverings and direct bond coverings without many of the advantages of direct bond surface coverings. shortcoming. Specifically, the use of the rebondable adhesive 300 eliminates the bounce and noise that often occurs with conventional floating floors, but the rebondable adhesive 300 still provides a degree of cushioning due to the flexible and elastic nature of the adhesive , will not solidify or cure. Also, the properties of the adhesive can cause the substrate/panel 12 to move due to changes in environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity. The direct bonding floor does not have this characteristic. In fact, recently, the direct bonding of compressed bamboo substrates has been problematic in the world market due to the rigidity and inflexibility of conventional adhesives. Therefore, compressed bamboo should need to move or swell due to changing environmental conditions, whereas direct bonding adhesives limit this. Therefore, several flooring associations around the world have suggested that compressed bamboo cannot be glued directly to the substrate, but is limited to applications in floating floor systems where it moves due to dynamic seasonal changes.

The provision of rebondable adhesives also undulates or varies the underlying surface to which it is adhered. This is achieved thanks to the adhesive 300 in the form of beads or strips, perpendicular to the main surfaces 14 , 16 with a measured thickness of 1 - 6 mm, in particular 2 - 4 mm. In addition to changing the underlying surface, the above-mentioned adhesives also have acoustic advantages: (a) eliminate the noise and squeak that traditional floating floors may generate due to bouncing or deformation; (b) prevent vibration between adjacent panels (i.e. noise) transmission; and (c) prevent the immediate transfer of vibration (i.e. noise) from upper floors to adjacent lower floors in multistory buildings. This is again in stark contrast to direct bonding glues, which cure to a rigid bond that does not impede vibration or noise transmission.

The advantages and disadvantages of the use of re-bondable adhesives as described above on a case-by-case basis have facilitated the emergence of floor covering systems (including substrates) that can fit and apply the adhesive. Such systems do not necessarily require longitudinal attachment systems of the type described above, and may be used with other types of attachment systems. In fact, in some cases, it is believed that the concept of rebondable adhesives has led to the emergence of surface covering systems without jointed substrates. Thus, in one embodiment, there may be a semi-floating surface covering system comprising a plurality of substrates, each having a first and a second major surface opposite, the first major surface being aligned parallel to and opposite the covering surface ; a plurality of re-adhesive adhesives as described above are attached to the first major surface; and one or more release strips cover the removable adhesive.

In an embodiment, it is contemplated that adhesive 300 will be used in the process of producing substrate 12 . Thus, in this embodiment, the merchandise will include a box of substrates 12 (for example) with one or more series of adhesive materials 300 covering release strips 302 . In this way, the installer can install only the surface covering by using this adhesive, if it is not present, install the sealing layer or sealing film to the face 304 , remove the release strip 302 and press the substrate 12 to the lower face 304 . If the substrate also includes a connection system, such as (but not limited to) connection system 10 described above, etc., then the installer will engage the connections of adjacent panels during installation.

In one example, it is contemplated that adhesive material 302 is applied by rolling strips or beads of hot melt pressure sensitive adhesive onto major surface 16 . The adhesive 300 used in Figures 24a-24c is a strip adhesive, while the adhesive 300 used in Figures 25a and 25b is a Bead B adhesive. In an embodiment of a rebondable adhesive, said to be GLUE DOTS™ adhesive drops, the machine 16 may use the adhesive drops.

In this embodiment, a mass of rebondable adhesive 300 is used for three spaced lines extending in the longitudinal direction L of the panel 12 . However, as may be explained in more detail below, adhesive material 300 may be used in different configurations. The re-bondable adhesive material 300 is covered by one or more release strips 302 . In the depicted embodiment, a single release strip 302 is used separately for each individual series of adhesive materials 300 . However, in alternative embodiments, a single release strip having substantially the same dimensions as major surface 16 may be used for a large number of rebondable adhesives 300 . In this case, when using the substrate 12, the installer only needs to peel off one release strip 302, rather than many individual release strips.

Figures 24c and 25b illustrate the use of an adhesive based on a surface covering system on a lower surface 304, which may be a concrete slab, for example. To use panel 12 , it is necessary to remove release bar 302 and use panel 12 with face 16 pointing directly at or facing face 304 . Panel 12 adheres to face 304 by contacting adhesive material 300 with face 304 and pressing down firmly. Other panels 12 may likewise be adhered to face 304 and mated to form a surface covering. Adhesive material 300 is very tacky and has strong adhesion to face 304, preventing lifting or separation of panel 12 and face 304 under normal use conditions. Adhesives in the form of Bead B (Figures 25a and 25b) are thought to provide greater horizontal movement, which typically occurs with changes in environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity. This is because the round and natural bead type B adhesive may be more conducive to easy rolling or shear rolling effect than strip adhesive.

Damaged panels (without a joint system, or without a joint system of the type described above, ie longitudinal joint systems) can be removed using the same method as above, see Figures 6a-6s. That is, the damaged panel is removed longitudinally using one or more jacks 92 . Figures 26a - 26e depict the removal of a damaged panel 12b on a partially semi-floating surface covering system comprising adjacent panels 12a and 12c. Each panel of the semi-floating floor system consists of a joint system 10, all in accordance with the various embodiments of the joint system described above. Additionally, bead B type adhesive material 300 adheres panel 12 to lower surface 90 . In this particular embodiment, there is no bead adhesive material between the joints Jm and Jf of the connection system 10 . There are however such adhesive materials in alternative embodiments. There is no point in providing additional adhesive between joints Jm and Jf during removal of panel 12b. That is, whether or not adhesive material is present between joints Jm and Jf, the removal process remains the same.

26b - 26e show in sequence the steps of installing jack 92 to damaged panel 12b and operating the jack in sequence to lift panel 12b from face 90 . The sequence and method of operation of these steps are the same as above, see Figures 6d–6h. However, in this case, since bead B adhesive 300 is provided, operating jack 92 to lift panel 12b longitudinally also has initial bending and stretching of bead B adhesive, resulting in bead B adhesive The agent is separated from the lower surface 90 and lifted therefrom. Typically, this will occur in sequence as the jacks are operated to lift the panels 12b outward from an area near the jacks 92 to a lower area. Thus, the first beads of Type B adhesive to separate from face 90 will be those located on either side of or closest to handle 96 of jack 92 . As the jack 92 gradually lifts the panel 12b, the bead B-type adhesive 300 closest to the bead-shaped adhesive that has just been released will be released from the surface 90 and other positions.

Typically, the entire bead of type B will be lifted from face 90 so that it will remain adhered to substrate 12 . In some cases, a small portion of adhesive 300 may remain on lower surface 90 . After operating the jack 92 to lift the panel 12b to the point where all of the bead Type B adhesive is disengaged from the panel, the remainder of the normal removal process is shown in Figures 6g-6i; indeed, Figures 6j-6o show and describe The entire replacement process is used to reinsert a new undamaged panel.

It will be noted that some of the beads of Type B adhesive 300 have separated from the adjacent panels 12a and 12c. During the recovery process, the beads of adhesive still in the panels 12a and 12c will rebond to the lower surface 90. Additionally, the adhesive 300 on the fresh panels will also stick to the surface 90 when the fresh panels are attached to the panels 12a and 12c.

As those skilled in the art can appreciate, this offers a huge advantage over direct stick floor systems in terms of the ability to accurately repair damaged floors. The accepted industry standard for the best repair of damaged floors is to strip all panels from the wall closest to the damaged panel or panels. With a direct-bond system, this is so difficult to do that, oftentimes, restorers cut corners and simply attempt to remove and only replace the damaged panel. This makes it impossible to reconnect the mechanical joints between panels. If the size of the panels has changed due to environmental expansion or contraction, or simply because a brand new panel of equivalent size cannot be found, the installation will often also require the use of filler to fill any gaps between the existing panels and the newly installed panels.

Another feature of the bonded substrate in the embodiment of the connection system 10 is that it can be laid up in reverse. In the art, reverse paving has two meanings. One meaning refers to the ability to lay from both sides of the panel. For example, assume that the first panel is roughly halfway between parallel walls in a room. With the reverse lay capability, two installers (or two sets of installers) can lay in opposite directions from a distance from the first panel. This naturally reduces installation time considerably. This method is used for direct gluing of panels, with the advantage that it can be adequately distributed between opposing walls of a room, providing excellent visual appeal. Direct-bond panels can be laid in reverse, as the installer can use glue to secure the first panel in the best position in or near the middle of the room, minimizing work near walls. Additional panels can be attached from the opposite side of the first panel. This is not possible with floating floors because the first panel placed in the best position is not fixed, it is floating and therefore cannot be used as a basis for laying in the opposite direction.

Another meaning of reverse laying refers to the ability to engage panels 12 extending perpendicularly (or in an orientation other than parallel) to each other. For example, this can be laid into a herringbone.

Current existing technology, even direct stick technology, is difficult to achieve reverse laying of the floor, this is because the traditional practice is to start laying away from the female joint. This is because, in current existing lay-up process technology, the male joint is typically 50+% shorter than the female joint, so that engaging the male part to the female part and reaching the locked horizontal panel requires or doesn't require very much creation. extreme angles. Since the existing connection system 10 is vertical, there is no laying process. The vertical nature of the connection system 10 makes it very easy to engage the panels from either side, or place the male fitting over the exposed female fitting to lay in one direction, or slide the female fitting under the male fitting of a previously laid panel. Threaded joints, thus laying in the opposite direction.

Figures 27a and 27b illustrate the above aspects or meanings of reverse laying. Figure 27a shows a floor plan 400 of a building in which a number of panels 12 are laid on the floor. Figure 27b shows an enlarged view detail A of Figure 27a, including a portion of the passageway of the building. It is assumed that a conventional floating floor is laid in the building. The installer will select a wall (for example, wall 402 of room 403) as a starting wall where the first panel 12a is to be installed. It is well known that walls in buildings are not perfectly parallel or perpendicular to each other and may be off by 100 mm or more. In the current plan, wall 404 is typically parallel but not exactly parallel to wall 402 and may not be aligned, with a difference in length between opposite ends of walls 402 and 404 of approximately 100 mm. Thus, when a layer lays other panels (eg, panels 12b, 12c, etc. up to panel 12p), the misalignment or offset between walls 404 and 402 is apparent because the edge of panel 12p does not abut wall 404. Also, there is a gap between the panel 12p and the edge of the wall 404 , which needs to be laid end-to-end using the beveled panel 12p to fill the gap between the panel 12p and the wall 404 . (This can be explained by the fact that it is unusual for a single panel to be extended long enough to meet the full length of room 403. References to panels 12a, 12b, etc. are therefore for ease of description only. Typically, for example, The panels 12a, 12b, etc. shown in room 403 will include many panels that have been connected end-to-end.)

The large misalignment between walls 402 and 404 is accentuated by chamfered panels 12q. It can also be seen in FIG. 27 a that there are openings 406 and 408 as doorways into room 410 and hallway 412 . The panels laid in rooms 410 and 412 are in the same direction and in line with the panels 12 in room 403 . There will then continue to be misalignment between the panels and the walls of the house.

However, this can also be seen in other areas, such as rooms 414, 416 and foyer 418, where panels 12 are typically laid perpendicular to panels laid in other rooms. This is an illustration of the second type or reverse laying type.

Using the semi-floating semi-direct bonded flooring system described above (see Figures 24a-25b), the installer can now use the centerline 420 of the room 401 as a starting point for laying the first panel and then reverse laying from the opposite direction. In this way, misalignment between walls 402 and 404 can be minimized from a visual standpoint by distributing panels 12 between adjacent walls 402 and 404 . This effect can be seen by slanting across the centerline 420 of the panels 12i and 12j (located where conventional floating floor laying practices provide).

Now that the embodiments of the longitudinal connection system and the surface covering system have been described in detail, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications and variations can be made without departing from the basic concept of the invention. For example, it was decided to implement it in wooden floor panels. However, these systems are applicable to many different materials and can also be used on surfaces or structures other than floors. For example, the panels of the combined joint system can be made of plastic material to meet the needs of the LVT ("luxury vinyl tile") market, or can be provided as a base tiles) attached to it. In this embodiment, the composite panel has a laminate-type structure, the base includes an embodiment of the attachment system, and the panel provides the consumer with a desired finish. It will be apparent that many features of the different embodiments are interchangeable or can be used in addition. For example, grooves 42 may be used in each embodiment of the connection system. Also possible: groove 42b type as shown in Figure 22a, or additional grooves 42b, 42c and 42d. Also, a rebondable adhesive 300 can be used for such grooves. Jack 92 is also described as a screw jack. But other types of jacks or lifting systems can also be used, such as lever jacks or pneumatic or hydraulic operating systems. Furthermore, the connection system 10 is primarily described in the context of applications employing elongated panels. However, they can be used in any shape of panel that can be fitted. For example, the connection system is available for square, hexagonal or triangular panels. Also, the panels need not be identical in shape and/or size.

All such modifications and changes, as well as others, which would be apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art are deemed to be within the scope of the invention, pending nature of the foregoing description and appended claims.

Claims (84)

1. A substrate longitudinal attachment system having opposing first and second major surfaces, the attachment system comprising: First and second asymmetric joints extending along opposite sides of the substrate, the first and second joints being configured to allow two substrates with the same connection system to intermesh for mating perpendicular to the major face the force applied in the direction; The first and second joints are each provided with two laterally spaced apart laterally extending surfaces configured such that the first joint of the first substrate and the second joint of the second substrate are engaged together, simultaneously according to the two joints of the second joint. two laterally extending surfaces, determining the relative positions of the two laterally extending surfaces of the first joint to form respective first and second locking planes at the innermost and outermost sides of each joint. Each locking plane is parallel to the direction of engagement, wherein laterally extending surfaces associated with each locking plane extend laterally toward each other from opposite sides of the locking planes, and the laterally extending surfaces of the second joint are overhanging the first joint. A laterally extending surface of the joint such that disengagement is inhibited in the event of engagement of the joint, wherein at least one of the transversely extending surfaces associated with each locking plane has a curved profile. 2. The longitudinal connection system according to claim 1, characterized in that by configuring the laterally extending surface, the two engaged substrates can be rotated by 3° relative to each other while maintaining the engagement of the two substrates. 3. A longitudinal connection system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the laterally extending surfaces are arranged so that one of the mating substrates can be laid towards the other substrate while maintaining the engagement of the two substrates The orientation of the surface is rotated by 7° to 10°. 4. A longitudinal connection system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, by virtue of the asymmetric configuration of the first and second joints, a void is formed at least on one side of each locking plane. 5. Longitudinal connection system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that at least one transversely extending surface associated with at least one locking plane has a continuous convex curvilinear profile. 6. Longitudinal joint system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, in at least one locking plane, one of the transversely extending surfaces has a continuous convex curvilinear profile and the other has a straight line or straight lines. contour. 7. A longitudinal attachment system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein each transversely extending surface has a continuously convex curved profile. 8. A longitudinal joint system as claimed in claim 7, wherein two or more laterally extending surfaces have a continuous convex curvilinear profile. 9. A longitudinal joint system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein each joint comprises a protrusion extending in the direction of engagement, and an adjacent groove formed along the respective side of the base plate ; a laterally extending surface is formed on the outermost surface of each protrusion and the innermost surface of each groove. 10. The longitudinal joint system of claim 9, wherein the projection of the first joint has a bulbous profile with a narrowed neck width, wherein a portion of the laterally extending surface on the projection of the first joint faces proximally of the neck outermost part. 11. A longitudinal joint system according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the groove of the second joint has a bulbous profile with a narrowed neck width, wherein part of the laterally extending surface on the groove of the second joint faces near the neck outermost part. 12. A longitudinal joint system according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the plane containing the straight line of shortest distance across each neck is inclined relative to the main surface. 13. A longitudinal joint system according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that the plane containing the straight line of shortest distance across each neck lies in a plane which is relatively inclined to the main surface. 14. A longitudinal joint system according to claim 13, wherein the respective shortest distance lines traversing each neck are parallel to each other. 15. The attachment system of claim 13, wherein the shortest distance lines across each neck are collinear. 16. A longitudinal joint system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein each transversely extending surface constitutes a respective partially curved surface. 17. A longitudinal joint system according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the first and second joints each comprise a third transversely extending surface located between two transversely extending surfaces of the joint, positioned opposite each other A third laterally extending surface of the third locking plane forms a third locking plane between the first and second locking planes, wherein the third laterally extending surfaces associated with the third locking plane are from opposite faces of the third locking plane towards each other The direction extends transversely, and the third laterally extending surface of the second joint is aligned with or overhangs the third transversely extending surface of the first joint. 18. A longitudinal connection system according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the first and second joints are arranged oppositely to engage each other in a direction parallel to the direction of engagement with respect to a third locking plane, so that Preventing disengagement of the engaged joints, the third locking plane is parallel to and interposed between the first and second locking planes. 19. A longitudinal joint system as claimed in claim 18, wherein the first and second joints each include a third laterally extending surface which extends to the third laterally extending surface when the joints have been engaged. Lock the opposite side of the plane. 20. A substrate longitudinal attachment system having opposing first and second major surfaces, the attachment system comprising: First and second asymmetric joints extending along opposite sides of the substrate, the first and second joints being configured to allow two substrates with the same connection system to intermesh for mating perpendicular to the major face the force applied in the direction; The first and second connectors each have two laterally spaced apart curved surfaces configured to enable the first connector of one substrate to engage the second connector of a second substrate, and the first connector of the first connector The two curved faces engage the two curved faces of the second fitting on the innermost and outermost sides of each fitting to form respective first and second locking planes, each of which independently contain engaged fittings Separated towards a direction parallel to the direction of engagement, each locking plane is oriented parallel to the direction of engagement, wherein the curved surfaces associated with each locking plane are located on either side of the locking plane. 21. The longitudinal connection system according to claim 20, characterized in that, when the two substrates continue to be engaged, the two engaged substrates can be relatively rotated by 3° by configuring the curved surface. 22. The vertical connection system according to claim 20 or 21, characterized in that, by configuring the curved surface, one of the engaging substrates can be directed towards the surface of the laying substrate relative to the other while maintaining the engagement of the two substrates Orientation turns 7° to 10°. 23. A longitudinal joint system as claimed in claims 20 to 22, wherein each joint comprises a third curved surface and, by opposing arrangement of the respective third curved surfaces, are engageable with each other so that in A third locking plane is formed between the first and second locking planes. 24. A longitudinal connection system according to any one of claims 20 to 23, characterized in that, by virtue of the asymmetric configuration of the first and second joints, a void is formed on at least one side of each locking plane. 25. A longitudinal connection system as claimed in any one of claims 20 to 24 wherein at least one curved surface associated with each locking plane has a continuously convex curved profile. 26. A longitudinal joint system according to any one of claims 20 to 24, wherein a curved surface associated with a locking plane has a continuously curvilinear profile and the profile of the other curved surface of the locking plane comprises a or multiple lines. 27. A longitudinal connection system as claimed in any one of claims 20 to 24 wherein each curved surface has a continuously curvilinear profile. 28. A longitudinal joint system according to any one of claims 20 to 27, wherein each joint comprises a protrusion extending in the direction of engagement, and an adjacent groove formed along the respective side of the base plate ; curved surfaces are formed on the outermost surface of each protrusion and the innermost surface of each groove. 29. The longitudinal joint system of claim 28, wherein the protrusion of the first joint has a bulbous profile with a narrowed neck width, wherein a portion of the curved surface on the protrusion of the first joint runs along the neck The outermost part of the formation. 30. A longitudinal joint system according to claim 28 or 29, wherein the groove of the second joint has a bulbous profile with a narrowed neck width, wherein part of the curved surface on the groove of the second joint follows the neck The outermost part of the formation. 31. A longitudinal joint system according to claim 29 or 30, wherein the plane containing the straight line of shortest distance across each neck is inclined relative to the major surface. 32. A longitudinal joint system according to claim 29 or 30, wherein the plane containing the straight line of shortest distance across each neck lies in a plane which is relatively inclined to the main surface. 33. A longitudinal attachment system as claimed in claim 32 wherein the respective shortest distance lines traversing each neck are parallel to each other. 34. The attachment system of claim 32, wherein the shortest distance lines across each neck are collinear. 35. A substrate longitudinal attachment system having opposing first and second major surfaces, the attachment system comprising: Asymmetric male and female joints extend oppositely along the sides of the substrates, by configuring the internal and external joints, it is possible to enable two substrates with a joint-like connection system to engage each other when subjected to pressure in the direction of engagement perpendicular to the main surfaces; male threaded joints contain The convexity of the joint usually extends perpendicularly from the first major surface to the second major surface, and the convexity is formed on the inner side of the convexity; the female threaded joint contains the convexity usually extending perpendicularly from the second major surface to the first major surface, A cove is formed on the inside of a cove; on a male fitting, the first external locking surface is formed on the side of the convex furthest from its cove, and the second external locking surface is formed on the side furthest from its cove. Formed on the concave side of the joint, the third external locking surface is the common surface of the convex and concave; on the female threaded joint, the first internal locking surface is formed on the concave side farthest from the convex, The second inner locking surface is formed on the outer convex side farthest from its inner concave, and the third inner locking surface is a surface common to inner convex and inner concave; the locking surface is configured to be on the outer inner side of the two substrates the joints engage each other so that the first outer locking surface and the first inner locking surface engage to form a first locking plane, and the second outer locking surface and the second inner locking surface engage to form a second locking plane, and engaging a third outer locking surface and a third inner locking surface to form a third locking plane located between the first and second locking planes, each locking plane prevents the engaged splice from moving parallel to the direction of engagement direction of separation. 36. The seaming system according to claim 35, characterized in that, in the state where the two substrates continue to be engaged, the two engaged substrates can be relatively rotated by 3° by configuring the locking surface. 37. A vertical joint system according to claim 35 or 36, characterized in that the locking surfaces are configured such that one of the engaging substrates faces the surface of the laying substrates relative to the other while maintaining the engagement of the two substrates Orientation turns 7° to 10°. 38. A longitudinal attachment system as claimed in any one of claims 35 to 37 wherein at least one of the first male locking surface and the first female locking surface has a smoothly curved transverse extension; At least one of the locking surface and the second female locking surface has a smoothly curved lateral extension. 39. The longitudinal attachment system of claim 38, wherein the additional first outer locking surface and the first inner locking surface each have a transversely extending portion comprising at least one two-dimensional surface. 40. A longitudinal joint system according to claim 38 or 39, wherein the additional second outer locking surface and the second inner locking surface each have a transversely extending portion comprising at least one two-dimensional surface. 41. A longitudinal attachment system as claimed in any one of claims 35 to 37 wherein each of the first and second outer and inner locking surfaces comprises a smoothly curved transverse extension. 42. A longitudinal joint system as claimed in any one of claims 35 to 41 wherein each of the first outer locking surface, first inner locking surface, second outer locking surface and second inner locking surface is formed by a curved surface Composed; the curved surfaces engage each other to form first and second locking planes. 43. A longitudinal joint system as claimed in any one of claims 35 to 42 wherein at least one of the third outer locking surface and the third inner locking surface is formed by a curved surface. 44. A substrate longitudinal attachment system having opposing first and second major surfaces, the attachment system comprising: first and second asymmetric joints extending along opposite sides of the base plate, the first and second joints being configured to allow two or more base plates having the same connection system to intermate The force applied in the engaging direction perpendicular to the surface can also pull the first substrate in the direction opposite to the engaging direction, so that the engaged substrate can be disengaged, so that the adjacent engaged substrate can move along the sides of the first substrate. Rotate to be in a plane inclined relative to the first substrate, thereby exerting force on the second joint of the engaged substrates in the direction of engagement. 45. The vertical joint system according to claim 44, characterized in that by further configuring the first and second joints, adjacent mating base plates can be rotated downward from the first base plate by 7° to 10° without Separate the substrates. 46. The longitudinal connection system according to claim 44 or 45, wherein the first and second joints are arranged so that adjacent mating substrates can be rotated by 3° on a plane relatively inclined to the first substrate. 47. A vertical joint system according to any one of claims 44 to 46, wherein the first and second joints have two laterally spaced apart transversely extending surface portions arranged to allow The first joint is engaged with the second joint on the second substrate, and the two laterally extending surfaces of the first joint and the two laterally extending surfaces of the second joint form first and Second locking planes, each locking plane parallel to the direction of engagement, and transversely extending portions associated with each locking plane extending transversely from opposite sides of the locking plane towards each other, laterally extending of the second joint A portion overhangs the laterally extending portion of the first joint. 48. The longitudinal attachment system of claim 47, wherein at least one laterally extending surface associated with at least one locking plane has a continuously convex curvilinear profile. 49. A vertical joint system according to any one of claims 44 to 47, wherein the first and second joints each have two laterally spaced apart curved surfaces, arranged so that the first The joints engage with the second joints on the second substrate, and the two curved faces of the first joints engage with the two curved faces of the second joints on the innermost and outermost sides of each joint, forming first and second joints, respectively. Locking planes each independently inhibit separation of the engaged joints in a direction parallel to the direction of engagement, wherein the curved surfaces associated with each locking plane are located on either side of the locking plane. 50. A longitudinal joint system according to claims 44 to 47, wherein the first joint is an externally threaded joint and the second joint is an internally threaded joint, the externally threaded joint comprising a protrusion generally extending from the first major surface towards The second main surface extends vertically, and the inner side of the outer protrusion forms an outer groove; the inner threaded joint contains inner protrusions, usually extending from the second main surface to the first main surface, and the inner side of the inner protrusion forms an inner groove; on the outer threaded joint, the first An outer locking surface is formed on both sides of the outer convex farthest from the inner concave, a second outer locking surface is formed on both sides of the inner concave farthest from the outer convex, and a third outer locking surface is a common surface of the outer convex and the outer concave; On the female threaded joint, the first inner locking surface is formed on both sides of the inner concave farthest from the outer convex, the second inner locking surface is formed on both sides of the outer convex farthest from the inner concave, and the third inner locking surface is inner convex and Concave shared surface; by configuring the locking surface to engage two substrate inner and outer joints, the first outer and first inner locking surfaces engage to form the first locking plane, and the second outer and second inner locking surfaces engage A second locking plane is formed, and a third outer and third inner locking surface engage to form a third locking plane between the first and second locking planes, each locking plane resists an engaged splice separate in a direction parallel to the direction of engagement. 51. A longitudinal connection system as claimed in any one of claims 44 to 47, wherein, when manually engaging the substrates, the first and second joints form three locking planes, each parallel to the in the direction of engagement and prevents the engaged joints from separating in the direction opposite to the direction of engagement. 52. A longitudinal connection system according to any one of claims 1 to 51, wherein the first joint is for two adjacent The side is extended, and the second joint is extended for the remaining two adjacent sides. 53. A surface covering system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 52 comprising a plurality of substrates, wherein each substrate has a longitudinal connection system. 54. A semi-floating surface covering system comprising: a plurality of substrates each having a longitudinal connection system according to any one of claims 1 to 52; A mass of rebondable adhesive bonded to the first major face; and One or more release strips covered with re-stickable adhesive. 55. The surface covering system of claim 54 wherein a plurality of rebondable adhesives is applied to two or more spaced lines extending longitudinally across the substrate. 56. The surface covering system of claim 55 wherein a plurality of continuous strips or beads of rebondable adhesive is used in at least one spaced line. 57. A surface covering system as claimed in claims 54 to 56 wherein the rebondable adhesive is applied in a plurality of lines evenly spaced from one another and symmetrically disposed about the longitudinal centerline of the substrate. 58. The surface covering system of claims 54 to 57, wherein the thickness of the rebondable adhesive measured perpendicular to the first major surface is between 1 and 6 mm. 59. The surface covering system of claim 58, wherein the rebondable glue has a thickness of 2 to 4 mm. 60. Surface covering system according to any one of claims 54 to 59, characterized in that the mass of adhesive constitutes a joint adhesive bonded to the substrate and is covered using a release strip, the joint adhesive being located at a certain location , when the connector system of one substrate is coupled to the connector system of the other substrate after the cover strip is removed, the connector adhesive on one substrate will stick to the connector of the other substrate. 61. A system as claimed in any one of claims 54 to 60 wherein the base plate is made from selected combinations of solid wood, engineered wood, laminate, bamboo, plastic and vinyl. 62. A method of manufacturing a semi-floating surface-covered substrate, characterized by: providing the surface covering system of claim 53; apply a mass of rebondable adhesive to the first major surface; and, Cover the adhesive with a release strip. 63. The method of claim 62, wherein applying the adhesive comprises applying the adhesive in two or more spaced lines extending longitudinally of the substrate. 64. The method of claim 63, wherein applying the adhesive comprises applying the adhesive in at least one spaced line of the first major surface in continuous strips or beads. 65. A method as claimed in any one of claims 62 to 64 comprising applying an adhesive having a uniform thickness of 1-6 mm measured perpendicular to the major surface. 66. The method of claim 65 comprising applying a uniform thickness of 2-4 mm of adhesive. 67. A method according to any one of claims 62 to 66 comprising applying a mass of rebondable adhesive to at least a portion of the joint, and then covering the adhesive on the joint with a release strip, removing the rebondable Adhesive is applied in place of the first substrate, wherein the release strip covering the adhesive on the joint of the first substrate is removed, the longitudinal connection system of the first and second substrates is coupled together, the bonding The compound will stick to the joint of the second substrate. 68. A surface covering system comprising a plurality of substrates, each substrate having: opposing first and second major faces, wherein the first major face is configured to face the lower support surface covered by the system and the longitudinal attachment system, The composition of the vertical connection system is as follows: first and second asymmetrical joints extending along opposite sides of the substrates, the first and second joints being configured to allow the two or more substrates to engage each other in a direction of engagement perpendicular to the major faces The force applied on the surface can also separate the engaged substrates by: (a) lifting the first substrate in the direction opposite to the engaging direction to promote the relative alignment of the adjacent engaged substrates along the first substrate; The two sides are rotated so as to lie in a plane inclined relative to the first substrate; and (b) subsequently applying a force in the engaging direction to the second joint of the engaged substrate. 69. The surface covering system of claim 68, comprising at least one strut removably attached to the first substrate, the strut having a shaft extending through the first substrate to form By applying pressure to the lower support surface, the strut is operated to pass the shaft through the hole, thereby lifting the first substrate to form the lower support surface. 70. A surface covering system as claimed in claim 68 or 69 wherein the longitudinal connection system is as claimed in claims 1 to 43. 71. The surface covering system of any one of claims 68 to 70, comprising a plurality of re-bondable adhesives bonded to the first major surface; One or more release strips on the composition. 72. A surface covering system as claimed in any one of claims 68 to 71 comprising a plurality of rebondable adhesives applied to one or both of the first and second joints; and Respective release strips covering the re-stickable adhesive applied to the joint. 73. A longitudinal joint system according to any one of claims 1 to 51, comprising a plurality of rebondable adhesives applied to one or both of the first and second joints; and covering Individual release strips of re-bondable adhesive applied to the joint. 74. A substrate of a surface covering system comprising a longitudinal connection system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 52. 75. The substrate of claim 74 comprising a plurality of rebondable adhesives affixed to one or both of the first and second joints; and covering the rebondable adhesive affixed to the joints respective release clauses. 76. The substrate of claim 75, wherein each joint has a bonded rebondable adhesive and provides a groove for receiving the bonded rebondable adhesive. 77. A substrate according to any one of claims 74 to 76 comprising a plurality of re-bondable adhesives bonded to the first major surface; and, covering the re-bondable adhesive on the first major surface One or more release bars on the . 78. A longitudinal joint system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 52 comprising a layer of wax placed on the surface of the joint to form first and second locking planes when engaged with a like joint. 79. A vertical connection system according to any one of claims 9, 28, 35, and any preceding claim which depends directly or indirectly on claims 9, 28 or 35, wherein a base plate's Each recess is provided with a coupling system arranged to be resiliently opened to allow a corresponding protrusion of the second substrate to enter and engage the recess using a similar joint system. 80. A substrate longitudinal attachment system having opposing first and second major surfaces, the attachment system comprising: First and second asymmetric joints extending along opposite sides of the substrate, the first and second joints being configured to allow two substrates with the same connection system to intermesh for mating perpendicular to the major face the force applied in the direction; By configuring the first and second joints, the two engaged substrates can be relatively rotated by 3° while continuing to engage the two substrates. 81. The vertical connection system of claim 80, wherein the first and second joints are provided with two transversely spaced generally convex surfaces configured to allow the first joint and the second joint of a substrate to The second joint of the substrate engages, with respect to the two generally convex surfaces of the second joint, determining the relative positions of the two generally convex surfaces of the first joint to form respective first and second locking planes at the innermost and outermost sides of each joint , each locking plane parallel to the direction of engagement, wherein the generally convex surfaces associated with each locking plane extend transversely toward each other from opposite sides of the locking planes, and the generally convex surfaces of the second joint overhang the Above the generally convex surfaces, at least one generally convex surface associated with each locking plane has a curved profile in order to prevent disengagement of the engaged joints. 82. A longitudinal joint system according to claim 80 or 81, wherein each joint comprises a protrusion extending in the direction of engagement and an adjacent groove formed along the corresponding side of the substrate; Laterally extending surfaces are formed on the outermost surface of the riser and the innermost surface of each groove. 83. A longitudinal joint system as claimed in claim 82, wherein each groove is arranged to be resiliently open to allow substrate protrusions to enter and engage the grooves using a similar joint system. 84. A longitudinal connection system as claimed in any one of claims 81 to 83 wherein the first and second joints are configured to form a third locking plane intermediate the first and second locking planes.

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