EP1190149B1 - Panel and panel fastening system - Google Patents

Abstract

The slabs (2,3) have profiled edges (4,5) which lock together. The first edge has a tongue (6) which projects into a groove (20) in the second profile. The top part of the first edge (9) projects further forward than the bottom part (8). The bottom part (21) of the second edge projects further forward than the top part (22). The bottom surface (7) of the tongue on the first edge is convex and matches a concave portion (23) in the groove. The top surface of the tongue is horizontal at the root, then slopes gently downwards. The bottom of the groove is of rectangular cross-section.

Description

The invention relates to a fastening system for panels with retaining profiles arranged on the narrow sides of the panels, especially for floor panels, with opposing Retaining profiles of a panel fit together in such a way that panels of the same type can be fastened to one another, with at least a pair of opposing retaining profiles, the complementary Have hook elements and can be hooked into one another, wherein the hook elements have hook projections with holding surfaces, through which the panels in the assembled state against each other are held that there is a gap-free floor surface results, with holding surfaces of the hook projections, the oblique are placed and extend from their free ends to the webs taper, the holding surfaces of the complementary hook projections at least partially abut one another and the Holding surfaces of the hook projections engage behind in such a way that complementary hook projections only through elastic deformation are interlocked.

A generic fastening system for panels is from WO 00/63510 known. This document falls under Art. 54 (3) EPC. Ensure the known retaining profiles a closed joint on the usable surface of the panels. To the purpose are three points of contact between the retaining profiles intended. In Fig. 4 of WO 00/63510 there are two of the contact points to be found where the two parallel arrows are entered are. The third point of contact is on the panel whose the free front end faces the sub-floor. The Construction is complex because of the three contact points many functional or fitting dimensions have to be adhered to exactly. This requires a high level of manufacturing accuracy. Besides, let the panels are less comfortable because of the many fitting dimensions fit together as desired.

Another fastening system is known from FR 2 278 876. Its complementary retaining profiles are designed in such a way that that they are tightly closed to one another when assembled nestle, which is also a high manufacturing cost means. Another fastening system is from the EP 0 715 037 A is known.

The invention is based on the object that the fastening system to simplify it with less manufacturing effort manufacturable and easier to lay.

The object is achieved in that between an end face of the underside hook projection of the second panel and the Narrow side of the first panel air is provided and that one Front side of the top hook projection of the first panel in the assembled state, at least in the area of the top of the panel rests against the second panel.

The construction sees where a precise fit is not important Air in front and avoids tight tolerances at this point. Laying is simplified because the air is interlocking the retaining profile favors. Besides, manufacturing is inexpensive due to the wide tolerance where air is provided. The provision of a joint-free surface from Panels are easy. On each panel or on each the complementary retaining profile of a panel is only a fitting size to be adhered to in order to guarantee this.

Easily, a first retaining profile of a panel with a Hook element provided, which consists of one of the narrow side protruding approximately vertically and arranged on the top of the panel Web is formed, wherein at the free end of the web a hook projection pointing towards the underside of the panel is arranged is. The rear retaining profile of this panel has a Hook element provided, which consists of one of the narrow side protruding and arranged on the underside of the panel Web is formed, with a at the free end of this web to the panel top pointing hook projection is arranged.

The top of the panel goes from the area with the thickness of the complete panel with a thickness graduation over into the Web. The web has about a thickness that is one third of the Panel thickness corresponds. The same goes for the bottom of the Panels. The hook element on the opposite side goes the underside web from the area of the full thickness of the Panels with a thickness gradation over into the web, which is also about a third of the thickness of the panel. The webs and the hook projections are much more massive designed as the undercut of the well-known groove and Spring connection. Therefore, there is an improvement in strength and durability for the fastening system of the invention.

The hook projection of the web on the underside is advantageously located in the mounted state of a panel on the top web of a second panel. In addition, there is between the hook projection the top bar of the second panel and the bottom Web of the first panel provided air.

Of course, this is also reversible, so that between the Hook protrusion of the lower web of the first panel and the top web of the second panel is provided with air. It is important that there is always a pair of web / hook projection in the mounted state clearly rest against each other and the other Pair of web / hook projection has air. Would be the fastening system constructed in such a way that always both pairs of web / hook projection abut one another, tolerances in the Production of the retaining profiles has not achieved a clear system and sometimes the one and sometimes the other pair of bar / hook protrusion are in contact.

In this way it can be prevented that the hook elements for example because of an uneven surface under load can be moved apart. When a panel is loaded the connected panel with the loaded panel in moves the same direction. The joint stays together.

An alternative embodiment provides that at least one the end faces of a hook element of a panel on their free end has a protruding locking element that is joined together State in an undercut recess of the The hook element of the other panel engages.

This construction has proven to be particularly easy to handle, because the retaining profiles can be easily pressed and snap together with elastic deformation. also the hook elements have good wear resistance, which favors multiple laying. The wear resistance is good because of the different locking functions exerted by different hook element areas and the stress on the hook element occurs so distributed. The panels are, for example, through the locking element and locks the recess perpendicular to the laying plane. The Locking of the panels against pulling apart in their longitudinal direction is, however, through the holding surfaces of the hook projections accomplished.

The protruding latching element is simply the first panel designed as a bead that extends over the entire length the narrow side extends and the undercut recess of the second panel designed as an elongated groove that receives the bead in the assembled state. Need to join Bulge and throat under elastic deformation of the hook elements be inserted into each other.

This embodiment of the fastening system is then suitable if no gluing is carried out, because of their wear resistance especially good for multiple laying. also it is inexpensive to manufacture.

On the underside of the panels on a base, for example a screed that is laid can be in the area of the Joints an air gap between the panels are tolerated.

A further improvement is seen in the fact that the im-mounted Condition of two panels with air-filled areas Form glue pockets. In addition to using the proposed Fastening system for glue-free laying of floor panels it is particularly suitable for a connection with Glue.

For this purpose, those points of the retaining profiles that must be provided with glue, for example in a Instructions for use or by markings on the retaining profile be labeled yourself. This way the user can Apply glue very precisely where it is in the assembled state two panels of glue pockets.

In the predominant application cases of the floor panels glued laying is seen as the most expedient type of laying. This is because the durability of the panels is significantly improved becomes. The gluing of the retaining profiles causes penetration of dirt and moisture in the joints is virtually prevented becomes. The moisture absorption and swelling of the panels in the This minimizes the joining area of the retaining profiles.

There can of course be use cases for which glue-free installation is preferable. For example then resumed when a floor covering is frequently laid and has to be re-laid, e.g. for floors in trade fair construction.

A construction has proven to be a simple and durable embodiment exposed, in which the retaining profiles of the long Narrow sides designed as complementary interlocking profiles are, the interlocking profile of a panel with the complementary Form-fit profile of a second panel in the laid State forms a joint joint and the joint through one rotating joining movement of the panels is to be put together. By the flexibility between the long narrow sides becomes this Connection point of the panels against severe material damage and spared from breakage of the retaining profiles.

The hinge allows the panels to be at the connection point be bent up and down. For example a panel on a base with an elevation so that a The narrow side of the panel is pressed against the substrate when it is loaded and the opposite narrow side upwards - seesaws, one is attached to the narrow side, which is teetering upwards second panel with moved up. The acting Bending forces damage the narrow cross-sections of the However, form-fit profiles are not. Instead, there is a joint movement instead of. The construction bears the principle of "adapted Deformability "calculation. This principle is based on the realization that very stiff and therefore supposedly stable Connection points cause high notch stresses and thereby fail easily. To avoid this, components should be like this be designed so that it is tailored to the intended use Exhibit compliance or "conformable deformability" and in this way notch stresses can be reduced.

A floor laid with the proposed fastening system indicates an irregular, rough or wavy surface adjusted compliance. The measure therefore increases the Durability of the panels. The fastening system is therefore suitable especially good for panels to renovate irregular Floors in old buildings.

Even with a level surface, the panels can change Deflection suffer when there is a soft intermediate layer, for example a sound-absorbing layer Foil or the like is laid. In a polluted place the intermediate layer is pressed in and the panels buckle their liaison offices. Also for this type of laying The fastening system is more suitable for panels than the known fastening systems.

Another advantage is seen in the fact that panels with the fastening system according to the invention better for a multiple Laying suitable as panels with the known fastening system, because the panels with the fastening system according to the invention even after long use on an irregular No previous damage to the form-fit profile on the ground exhibit. The form-fit profiles are dimensionally stable and durable. They can be used for much longer and during their life cycle be relocated more often.

Simply the hinge is from a recess in the Narrow side of the first panel and a matching ledge formed the complementary narrow side of the second panel. The interlocking profiles are preferably designed so that a load on the top of the floor panels in the laid State of the top wall of the recess of a first Panels in the protrusion of the second panel and from that Protrusion of the second panel into the underside wall of the first Panels is transferred. The walls of the recess of the first When installed, panels are in contact with the top and bottom Underside of the protrusion of the second panel. The upper However, the wall of the recess is only present in a short area the free end of the top wall of the recess in contact with the Protrusion of the second panel. In this way, the Construction with little elastic deformation of the walls the recess a hinge movement between the panel with the Recess and the panel with the protrusion. In this way the stiffness of the connection is best adapted to an irregular one Pad, which inevitably leads to a kinking movement leads between panels attached to one another.

The joint is simply made up of a concave bulge in the the inside wall of the recess facing the substrate as well as a convex curvature on the one facing the substrate Formed underside of the projection. In addition, the the surface facing away from the top of the projection of a panel an inclined material removal that extends up to extends free end of the projection. The thickness of the protrusion is increasing due to the material removal towards the free end decreased. Due to the material removal, there is freedom of movement created for the common joint.

In order to pick up the laid panels again, it is advisable to lift them first a row of panels next to each other so that turn this diagonally upwards in the joint. Then the Projections pulled out of the recesses in an oblique direction and dismantled the joint. The panels are then only connected on the short narrow sides. It recommends the nested hook elements of the short Pull apart narrow sides in their longitudinal extension to In this way, a material-fatiguing deformation during dismantling to avoid the hook elements.

The convex curvature of the projection and the advantageous concave curvature of the recess essentially one circular segment each, where in the installed state the center of the circle is the Sections of circles on top of the protrusion or below the top of the projection is arranged. In the latter case the center of the circle lies within the cross section of the projection.

This simple construction results in a joint whose convex curvature of the projection similar to a joint ball and the concave curvature of the recess similar to a joint socket are formed, in contrast to one Cup joint, of course, not a spherical one, but only a flat rotary movement is possible.

In a favorable further education, the most protruding one is Point of the convex curvature of the protrusion of a panel arranged so that that it is about below the top of the panel is located. This results in a in relation to the total thickness of the panel has a relatively strong cross-section for the protrusion. also the concave curvature of the recess provides sufficient large undercut for the convex curvature of the protrusion, so that this is caused by tensile forces acting in the laying plane can hardly be moved apart.

The hinge properties of two interconnected panels can be further improved if the one facing the subsurface Wall of the recess of a panel on its inside has an oblique material removal that extends to the free End of the wall extends and the wall thickness of this wall to free end is increasingly thinner. This is due to the material removal When two panels are installed, there is freedom of movement created for the common joint. With this improvement becomes the proportion of elastic deformation of the walls the recess during the deflection of the installed panels further reduced upwards.

It is also useful if the recess of a panel is used Connection to the protrusion of another panel by a resilient deformation of its lower wall is expandable and that the resilient one that occurs during joining Deformation of the lower wall in the fully connected state of two Panels is taken back. The form-fit profiles are only used for the joining process and during joint movement elastically deformed and subject if not are loaded, no elastic tension.

The form-fit profiles are preferably in one piece on the narrow sides molded onto the panels. The panels are very easy to use and produce with little waste.

It has been shown that the strength of modern carrier materials, such as medium-density MDF fibreboard (Medium Density Fiberboard) or high-density HDF fiberboard (High Densitiy Fiberboard), which are provided with an abrasion-resistant wear layer are, in particular, to use the proposed fastening system suitable. These materials are easy to work with and obtained, for example by machining, a sufficient surface quality. Also wise these materials ensure high dimensional stability of the milled profiles on. The retaining profiles are even after being laid several times still in good shape that a secure connection even on uneven surfaces Underground is possible.

Another benefit arises when the Panels with the freedom of movement for the joint joints a soft elastic curing filler are provided. This Filler preferably closes all joints and in particular the top joint in such a way that no moisture and no dirt can penetrate. With a joint movement of each other connected panels is made of the flexible filler squashed or stretched depending on the direction of rotation of the joint movement. It always adheres to the contact surfaces on the narrow sides of the panels and decreases as the joint movement decreases returns to its original shape. The filler carries through his elastic internal deformation contributes to the recovery of the joint.

Fig. 1

eine schematische Seitenansicht eines verlegten Fußbodenbelags aus Paneelen mit dem erfindungsgemäßen Befestigungssystem mit Hakenelementen,

Fig. 2

eine Ausführungsform des Befestigungssystems mit Hakenelementen in einer Seitenansicht, ausschnittsweise,

Fig. 3

eine weitere Ausführungsform des Befestigungssystems mit Hakenelementen in Seitenansicht, ausschnittsweise,

Fig. 4

eine schematische Darstellung eines Halteprofils mit einem unterseitigen Steg sowie einer Darstellung der Zerspanungswerkzeuge zur Herstellung der Hinterschneidung,

Fig. 5

eine Ausführungsform eines nicht beanspruchten Befestigungssystems mit Hakenelementen, die über ein Rastelement festlegbar sind,

Fig 5.1

eine Ausführungsform eines nicht beanspruchten Befestigungssystems mit Hakenelementen, die über zwei Rastelemente festlegbar sind,

Fig. 6

eine ausschnittsweise Darstellung eines nicht beanspruchten Befestigungssystems mit komplementären Formschlußprofilen, die im zusammengefügten Zustand zweier Paneele ein Gelenk bilden,

Fig. 7

das nicht beanspruchte Befestigungssystem gemäß Fig. 6 im zusammengefügten Zustand,

Fig. 8

einen nicht beanspruchten Fügevorgang mit Paneelen gemäß Fig. 6, bei dem der Vorsprung eines Paneels in Pfeilrichtung in die Aussparung des zweiten Paneels gesteckt und das erste Paneel nachfolgend mit einer Drehbewegung arretiert wird,

Fig. 9

einen nicht beanspruchten weiteren Fügevorgang mit Paneelen gemäß Fig. 6, bei dem der Vorsprung des ersten Paneels parallel zur Verlegeebene in die Aussparung des zweiten Paneels eingeschoben wird,

Fig. 10

das Befestigungssystem im zusammengefügten Zustand gemäß Fig. 7, wobei das gemeinsame Gelenk aus der Verlegeebene nach oben bewegt ist und die beiden Paneele einen Knick bilden,

Fig. 11

das Befestigungssystem im verlegten Zustand gemäß Fig. 7, wobei das Gelenk aus der Verlegeebene nach unten bewegt ist und die beiden Paneele einen Knick bilden,

Fig. 12

ein Befestigungssystem mit Paneelen gemäß Fig. 6 im verlegten Zustand zweier Paneele mit einem Füllstoff zwischen den Formschlußprofilen der langen Schmalseiten.

The invention is illustrated by way of example in a drawing and described in detail with reference to the figures. Show it:

Fig. 1

a schematic side view of an installed floor covering made of panels with the fastening system according to the invention with hook elements,

Fig. 2

an embodiment of the fastening system with hook elements in a side view, in detail,

Fig. 3

a further embodiment of the fastening system with hook elements in a side view, excerpts,

Fig. 4

a schematic representation of a retaining profile with a web on the underside and a representation of the cutting tools for producing the undercut,

Fig. 5

an embodiment of a non-claimed fastening system with hook elements that can be fixed via a latching element,

Fig 5.1

an embodiment of a non-claimed fastening system with hook elements that can be fixed via two locking elements,

Fig. 6

a partial representation of a non-claimed fastening system with complementary form-locking profiles that form a joint when two panels are joined,

Fig. 7

the unclaimed fastening system according to FIG. 6 in the assembled state,

Fig. 8

a non-claimed joining process with panels according to FIG. 6, in which the projection of a panel is inserted into the recess of the second panel in the direction of the arrow and the first panel is subsequently locked with a rotary movement,

Fig. 9

a not claimed further joining process with panels according to FIG. 6, in which the projection of the first panel is pushed into the recess of the second panel parallel to the laying plane,

Fig. 10

the fastening system in the assembled state according to FIG. 7, the common joint being moved upwards out of the laying plane and the two panels forming a kink,

Fig. 11

the fastening system in the installed state according to FIG. 7, with the joint being moved downwards out of the installation plane and the two panels forming a kink,

Fig. 12

a fastening system with panels according to FIG. 6 in the installed state of two panels with a filler between the form-fitting profiles of the long narrow sides.

According to Figure 1 of the drawing is a floor covering 1 with the proposed Fastening system 2 from several similar Panels 3, 4, 5 and 6 assembled. The first panel 4 has matching on opposite narrow sides Holding profiles 4a and 4b with complementary hook elements 4c and 4d on. In this way, a first retaining profile can always be used 4a with a second retaining profile 5b of a second panel 5 connect.

In the figure 2 is an enlarged partial side view an embodiment of the fastening system 2 can be seen. It is a first retaining profile 4a of a panel 4 with a Hook element 4c can be seen from one of the narrow side protruding approximately vertically and arranged on the panel top 6 Web 4e is formed. Here is at the free end of the web 4e a hook projection pointing towards the underside 7 of the panel 4 4f arranged. The hook projection 4f is with a Hook projection 5f of a second panel 5 in engagement. The hook ledge 5f of the second panel 5 forms the retaining profile the rear narrow side. It is also from a web 5e formed, which protrudes from the narrow side of the second panel 5 and arranged on the underside 8 of the second panel 5 is. The hook projection 5f is also at the free end of the Web 5e arranged and points to the panel top 9 of the panel 5. The hook projections 4f and 5f of the two panels 4 and 5 are hooked together.

The hook projection 5f of the second panel 5 with the underside The web 5e lies in the assembled state of the first panel 5 on the top web 4e of the second panel 4. For the purpose of a clear system is between the hook projection 4f des top web 4e of the first panel 4 and the underside Web 5e of the second panel 5 in the present case Embodiment air L1 provided.

According to FIG. 2, holding surfaces 4g and 5g of the hook projections engage behind one another 4f and 5f such that the hook projections 4f and 5f can only be hooked into one another by elastic deformation. Between the inner surface 10 of the hook profile of the second panel 5 and the opposite holding surface 4g of the hook projection 4f an opening 11 is formed at its narrowest Place has the width a. This is less than that Width b of the hook projection 4f of the first panel 4 on his widest point. This design and the elastic Deformation occurs when joining the hook projections 4f and 5f the complementary hook projections 4f snap into place and 5f in a defined end position. In the present embodiment are the holding surfaces 4g and 5g of the hook projections 4f and 5f kept simple and as an inclined plane Formed areas. From the free ends of the hook projections 4f and 5f taper towards the webs 4e and 5e these. In the present embodiment, as in FIG 2 can be seen, the holding surface 4g of the hook projection of the first panel 4 rounded at the upper and lower ends. The same applies to the holding surface 5g of the hook projection 5f of the second panel 5. This will make the interlocking the hook projections 4f and 5f supported in which during a joining movement perpendicular to the laying plane the holding profiles 4a and 5b slowly expanded elastically become. This makes laying easier and protects the retaining profiles 4a and 5b.

The adjacent holding surfaces 4g and 5g of the cooperating Panels 4 and 5 therefore nestle in areas to each other. The resulting gaps can be advantageous serve as glue pockets 12.

Furthermore, between the end face 5h of the lower-side hook projection 5f of the second panel 5 and the inner surface 13 of the first panel 4 air L2 is provided. This resulting The space in between can also serve as a glue pocket 12. Same thing applies to the end face 14 of the hook projection 4f on the top of the first panel 4, which in the assembled state at least in the area of the panel top 6 and 9 on the second panel 5 is applied. Below the panel top 6 and 9 to the interior of the Connection widens in the present exemplary embodiment an intermediate space, which is also designed as a glue pocket 12 is.

A second embodiment of a fastening system 2 is shown in FIG 3 illustrates. They have the same technical characteristics provided with the same reference numerals as in Fig. 2. The embodiment according to FIG. 3 differs from that Embodiment according to FIG. 2 in that that of the two pairings of web / hook protrusion that lie against each other, and who have changed the one that has an air gap. The basic function of the fastening system 2 remains the same. Again, there is a clear system the hook projections 4f and 5f and a gapless surface of the floor covering 1.

Finally, FIG. 4 shows a schematic representation of a Panels 5 with a retaining profile 5b according to the invention. Schematic is entered as the undercut contour of the Holding projection 5f with the help of two cutting tools W1 and W2, which rotate about the axes X1 and X2, can be produced. The Tools W1 and W2 create a recess 15 in which a complementary hook protrusion of another panel (not shown) can be hooked into place.

Fig. 5 shows an alternative embodiment of one not claimed Fastening system with special complementary Retaining profiles 20 and 21 on the short narrow sides of panels 22 and 23. Again, hook elements 24 and 25 are provided, which, like the previous embodiments, webs 26 and 27 as well Have hook projections 28 and 29. The embodiment 5 is constructed so that the end face 30 of the underside Hook element of the second panel 23 at its free Has the end of a protruding locking element 31, which is in a undercut recess 32 of the upper-side hook element 24 of the first panel 22 engages. The hook elements 24 and 25 can be adjusted with light pressure and under elastic deformation lock into each other. The panels 22 and 23 are supported by the in the recess 32 engaging locking element 31 perpendicular to Laying level locked. The locking of panels 22 and 23 against pulling apart in the longitudinal direction is ensured by holding surfaces 33 and 34 done on the hook projections 28 and 29 of the hook elements 24 and 25 are provided.

In Fig. 5.1 another embodiment is shown, which is based on the embodiment according to FIG. Same features these two figures are given the same reference numerals Mistake. Compared to the embodiment of FIG. 5, the embodiment according to Fig. 5.1 so constructed that the end face 35 of the top hook element 24 of the first panel 22 has a protruding latching element 36 at its free end, that in an undercut recess 37 of the underside Hook element 25 of the second panel 23 engages. To the To lock hook elements 24 and 25, a slightly larger one has to be used Pressure can be exerted as in the embodiment according to FIG Fig. 5. The panels 22 and 23 are through the in the recess 32 engaging locking element 31 as well as the additional in the recess 37 engaging latching element 36 locked more firmly than in the embodiment of FIG. 5. The above Latching elements 31 and 36 of the panels 22 and 23 are as Bulges formed, which extend over the entire length of a Extend the narrow side. Of course, instead of a Bead on a hook projection also, for example, a protruding one Nose be provided with a slope (not shown), the slope of the nose is oriented so that with a gentle expansion as the joining process progresses the corresponding hook element is accomplished. The undercut recesses 32 and 37 of the panels 22 and 23 are designed as elongated throats that form the beads in the record joined state. The bulge and throat can be Milling by so-called formatting in one production pass. To join the panels 22 and 23 each bead and Throat under elastic deformation of the hook elements 24 and 25 are inserted into one another. They also differ the embodiments of Figures 5 and 5.1 in the interaction the webs 26, 27 and hook projections 29, 28. According to 5, the web 26 rests against the hook projection 29 and is provided between the hook projection 28 and the web 27 air. According to FIG. 5.1, there is air between the web 26 and the hook projection 29 and the hook projection 28 rests on the web 27.

According to Fig. 6 is a non-claimed fastening system for rectangular panels 40 and 41 shown. The panels 40 and 41 have holding profiles on their long narrow sides that as form-fit profiles 42 and 43 are formed. The opposite Form-fit profiles 42 and 43 respectively Panels 40 and 41 are complementary to one another. On In this way, you can add another to each panel that has already been laid Panel to be attached.

The interlocking profiles 42 and 43 according to FIG. 6 are based on the State of the art of the German utility model G 79 28 703 U1. In particular on the form-fit profiles of the exemplary embodiment, that in Figs. 14, 15 and 16 and in the associated Part of the description of G 79 28 703 U1 is disclosed. The interlocking profiles 42 and 43 of the present fastening system are on the other hand trained in such a way that they are a enable articulated and flexible connection of panels 40 and 41, which make the fastening system more durable and a encourage frequent reuse.

One of the interlocking profiles 42 is with one of the narrow side protruding projection 44 is provided. The bottom of the Projection 44 facing the base in the laid state is, has a cross section for the purpose of the articulated connection with a convex curvature 45. The convex curvature 45 is rotatably mounted in the complementary interlocking profile 43. In the illustrated embodiment, the convex curvature 45 formed in the shape of a circular segment. The one below the Projection 44 arranged part 46 of the narrow side of the panel 42, which faces the pad in the installed state, is available farther back from the free end of the projection 44 than that above of the projection 44 arranged part 47 of the narrow side. In the embodiment shown, the occurs below the Projection 44 arranged part 46 of the narrow side approximately twice as far back from the free end of the projection 44 as the above the projection 44 arranged part 47 of the narrow side. This is due to the fact that the circular segment of the convex Curvature 45 is relatively wide. This is the furthest protruding point of the convex bulge 45 of the projection 44 arranged so that it is approximately below the top edge 48 of the panel 40 is located.

The part 47 of the narrow side arranged above the projection 44 occurs at the top of the panel 40 from the narrow side emerges and forms a joint butt surface 49. Between this joint butt surface 49 and the projection 44 of the panel 40 is the Part 47 of the narrow side is set back. This ensures that the joint butt surface 49 with the joint butt surface 39 of the complementary Panels 41 always have a closed joint on the top forms.

The opposite of the convex curvature 45 of the projection 44 The top of the projection 44 has a short straight section 50, which is also parallel to the subsurface when installed U is arranged. From this short section 50 to the The top of the projection 44 has a free end inclined material removal 51, extending to the free end of the projection 44 extends.

The form-locking profile complementary to the form-locking profile 42 discussed 43 is discussed below with reference to panel 41. The interlocking profile 43 has a recess 52. This is essentially a lower one in the installed state the substrate U facing wall 53 and an upper one Wall 54 limited. On the inside of the recess 52 is the lower wall 53 is provided with a concave bulge 55. This takes on the function of a bearing shell. The concave bulge 55 is also formed in the shape of a segment of a circle. So that the relative wide concave bulge 55 on the lower wall 53 of the recess 52 finds space, the lower wall 53 is further from the narrow side of the panel 41 emerges as the upper wall 54. The concave bulge 55 forms at the free end of the lower Wall 53 has an undercut. In the finished state two panels 40 and 41, this undercut is from the Projection 44 of the associated interlocking profile 42 of the neighboring Panels 40 engaged behind. The level of backlash that So the difference between the thickest point of the free end the lower wall 53 and the thickness of the lower wall 53 on the lowest point of the concave bulge 55 is tuned so that a good compromise between an articulated compliance two panels 40 and 41 and a good hold against pulling apart the interlocking profiles 42 and 43 in the laying plane given is.

The prior art fastening system according to the figures 14, 15 and 16 of the utility model G 79 28 703 U1 in contrast, a significantly larger amount of undercut on. This results in extremely stiff joints, due to the stress on an irregular Substrate U cause high notch stresses.

The inside of the top wall 54 of the recess 52 of the panel 41 is parallel according to the embodiment in the laid state arranged to the underground U.

The lower wall 53 of the recess facing the substrate U 52 of the panel 41 has an inclined material removal on its inside 56 on, which extends to the free end of the lower Wall 53 extends. This makes the wall thickness of this wall 53 increasingly thinner towards the free end of the wall 53. The removal of material 56 follows on from that according to the exemplary embodiment one end of the concave bulge 55 at.

The projection 44 of the panel 40 and the recess 52 of the panel 41 form, as can be seen in FIG. 7, a common joint G. The material removal 51 discussed in connection with FIG. 6 on the upper side of the projection 44 of the panel 40 and the material removal 56 of the lower wall 53 of the recess 52 of the panel 41 in the installed state of the panels 40 and 41 freedom of movement 57 and 58, respectively, which correspond to the joint G in a small angular range allow rotation.

In the installed state, the short straight section 50 is the Top of the projection 44 of the panel 40 with the inside the top wall 54 of the recess 52 of the panel 41 in contact. In addition, the convex curvature 45 of the projection 44 lies on the concave bulge 55 of the lower wall 53 of the recess 52 of the Panels 41 on.

The lateral joint butt surfaces 49 facing the upper side and 39 of two connected panels 40 and 41 always lie clearly to each other. In practice a simultaneous one is exact Installation of the convex curvature 45 of the projection 44 of the panel 40 at the concave curvature 55 of the recess 52 of the panel 41 not possible. Manufacturing tolerances would lead to that either the joint butt surfaces 49 and 39 exactly to one another rest or the convex curvature 45 exactly on the concave Curvature 55 is applied. In practice, the interlocking profiles are 42 and 43 are therefore designed in such a way that the joint butt surfaces 49 and 39 lie exactly against one another and the convex curvature 45 and the concave curvature 55 is not sufficient for an exact installation can be moved far into each other. Because the manufacturing tolerances but are of the order of hundredths of a millimeter, The convex curvature 45 and the concave one also nestle Bulge 55 almost against one another.

Panels 40 and 41 with the complementary form-locking profiles described 42 and 43 can be used in different ways attach to each other. According to Fig. 8 is a panel 41 with a Recess 52 has already been laid, while another panel 40 with a complementary projection 44 inclined in the direction of arrow P. is inserted upright into the recess 52 of the panel 41.

Thereafter, the panel 40 is around the common center point K of the circle of the circular sections of the convex curvature 45 of the projection 44 and the concave bulge 55 of the recess 52 rotated until the Panel 40 rests on the substrate U.

Another way of joining the panels 40 and 41 is shown in FIG. 9, after which the panel 41 is laid with a recess 52 is and another panel 40 with a protrusion 44 in the Laying plane and perpendicular to the interlocking profiles 42 and 43 is moved in the direction of arrow P until the walls 53 and 54 of the recess 52 of the panel 41 widen a little elastically and the convex curvature 45 of the projection 44 is the undercut at the front end of the concave bulge 55 of the has overcome lower wall 53 and the final laying position is reached.

The latter type of joining is preferred for the short narrow sides of the Panels 40 and 41 used when these are complementary with the same Interlocking profiles 42 and 43 are provided, like that long narrow sides of the panels 40 and 41.

In Fig. 10 the fastening system is shown in use. The panels 40 and 41 lie on an irregular surface U. The panel 40 with the interlocking profile 42 is on his The top is loaded with a force F. This is the The narrow side of the panel 40 with the interlocking profile 42 is raised been. The one connected to the interlocking profile 42 Form-fitting profile 43 of the panel 41 is also lifted. The joint G creates a kink between the two Panels 40 and 41. Create the freedom of movement 57 and 58 Space for the rotation of the joint G. That from both panels 40 and 41 formed joint G is a bit far from the Laying level has been moved up. The freedom of movement 57 has been completely used for the rotation, so that the top of the projection 44 of the panel 40 in the area of material removal 51 on the inside of the wall 54 of the panel 41 is applied. The junction is inherently compliant and does not force the interlocking profiles 42 and 43 involved any unnecessary and material fatiguing bending stress.

The one occurring early with form-fit profiles according to the prior art Damage from breakage of the protrusion or walls the interlocking profile is thus avoided.

Another advantage results from a joint movement according to FIG of Fig. 10. This can be seen in the fact that the two panels 40 after 41 again after being relieved by their own weight fall back into their laying level. A slight elastic deformation of the walls 53 and 54 of the recess 52 also lies in this case. This elastic deformation supports that The panels 40 and 41 fall back into the laying plane. It only a very small elastic deformation occurs, because the pivot point of the joint G, which is through the circular segment-shaped Bulges 45 and 55 are set to be within of the cross section of the protrusion 44 of the panel 40 is located.

11 shows a joint movement of two laid panels 40 and 41 shown in the opposite direction of rotation. The on Panels 40 and 41 laid on an irregular subsurface U are bent downwards. The construction is designed in such a way that that with a buckling of the junction from the Laying level towards the subsurface U is a much stronger elastic one Deformation of the lower wall 53 of the recess 52 occurs than with the upward bend from the laying level. The point of this measure is to be seen in the fact that the downward buckled panels 40 and 41 not through after relief their own weight can return to the laying level. The greater elastic deformation of the lower wall 53 of the However, recess 52 creates a resilient force that the panels 40 and 41 immediately resiliently back into the Laying level moved back.

List of reference symbols

1

Flooring

2

Fastening system

3

Panel

4th

Panel

4a

Retaining profile

4b

Retaining profile

4c

Hook element

4d

Hook element

4e

web

4f

Hook protrusion

5

Panel

5b

holding profile

5e

web

5f

Hook protrusion

5g

Holding surface

5h

Front side

6th

Panel

7th

bottom

8th

Top

9

Top

10

Inner surface

11

opening

12th

Glue pocket

13th

Inner surface

14th

Front side

20th

Retaining profile

21

Retaining profile

22nd

Panel

23

Panel

24

Hook element

25th

Hook element

26th

web

27

web

28

Hook protrusion

29

Hook protrusion

30th

Front side

31

Locking element

32

deepening

33

Holding surface

34

Holding surface

35

Front side

36

Locking element

37

deepening

39

Joint surface

40

Panel

41

Panel

42

Form-fit profile

43

Form-fit profile

44

head Start

45

convex curvature

46

Part of the narrow side

47

Part of the narrow side

48

Top edge

49

Joint surface

50

Section of 44

51

Material removal

52

Recess

53

lower wall

54

upper wall

55

concave bulge

56

Material removal

57

Freedom of movement

58

Freedom of movement

60

filler

G

joint

L1

air

L2

air

P

Direction of arrow

U

Underground

Claims (16)

1. A fastening system for panels (3, 4, 5, 6, 40, 41), with retaining profiles (4a, 4b, 5b) arranged at the narrow sides of the panels, in particular for floor panels, wherein mutually oppositely disposed retaining profiles (4a, 4b, 5b) of a panel (3, 4, 5, 6, 40, 41) match each other in such a way that similar panels (3, 4, 5, 6, 40, 41) can be fastened to each other, wherein at least one pair of oppositely disposed retaining profiles (4a, 4b, 5b) has complementary hook elements (4c, 4d) which can be hooked one into the other and wherein the hook elements (4c, 4d) have hook projections (4f, 5f) with retaining surfaces (4g, 5g) by which the panels (3, 4, 5, 6, 40, 41) are held against each other in the assembled condition in such a way as to afford a gap-free floor surface, with a first retaining profile (4a, 4b, 5b) of a panel (3, 4, 5, 6, 40, 41) which is provided with a hook element (4c, 4d) which is formed from a leg (4e, 5e) which projects approximately perpendicularly from the narrow side and which is arranged at the top side of the panel, wherein arranged at the free end of the leg (4e, 5e) is a hook projection (4f, 5f) which faces towards the underside of the panel (3, 4, 5, 6, 40, 41), and with a second retaining profile (4a, 4b, 5b) of the panel (3, 4, 5, 6, 40, 41) which is opposite the first retaining profile and which is also provided with a hook element (4c, 4d) which is formed from a leg (4e, 5e) which projects from the narrow side and which is arranged at the underside of the panel (3, 4, 5, 6, 40, 41), and wherein arranged at the free end of said leg (4e, 5e) is a hook projection (4f, 5f) which faces towards the top side of the panel, characterised in that the retaining surfaces (4g, 5g) of the hook projections (4f, 5f) are inclined and the hook projections (4f, 5f) are reduced from their free ends towards the legs (4e, 5e) wherein the retaining surfaces (4g, 5g) of the complementary hook projections (4f, 5f) bear against each other at least in a region-wise manner and the retaining surfaces (4g, 5g) of the hook projections (4f, 5f) engage behind each other in such a way that complementary hook projections (4f, 5f) can be hooked one into the other only by elastic deformation, wherein clearance (L2) is provided in the entire intermediate space between the end (5h) of the hook projection (5f) at the underside of the second panel (5) and the narrow side of the first panel (4) and wherein the end (14) of the hook projection (4f) at the top side of the first panel (4) in the assembled condition bears against the second panel (5) at least in the region of the top side of the panel.
2. A fastening system according to claim 1 characterised in that the hook projection (4f, 5f) of the leg (4e, 5e) at the underside bears in the assembled condition of a panel (3, 4, 5, 6, 40, 41) against the leg (4e, 5e) at the top side of a second panel (3, 4, 5, 6, 40, 41) and that provided between the hook projection (4f, 5f) of the leg (4e, 5e) at the top side of the first panel (3, 4, 5, 6, 40, 41) and the leg (4e, 5e) at the underside of the second panel (3, 4, 5, 6, 40, 41) is clearance (L1) or vice-versa.
3. A fastening system according to claim 1 or claim 2 characterised in that at least one of the ends (30, 35) of a hook element (24, 25) of a panel (22, 23) has at its free end a projecting detent element (31, 36) which in the assembled condition engages into an undercut recess (32, 37) of the hook element (24, 25) of the other panel (22, 23).
4. A fastening system according to claim 3 characterised in that the projecting detent element (31) of the second panel (23) is in the form of a bead which extends over the entire length of the narrow side and the undercut recess (32) of the first panel (22) is in the form of an elongate channel which receives the bead in the assembled condition.
5. A fastening system according to one of claims 1 to 4 characterised in that the intermediate spaces (L1, L2, L3) provided with clearance in the assembled condition of two panels (3, 4, 5, 6, 22, 23, 40, 41) form adhesive pockets.
6. A fastening system according to one of claims 1 to 5 characterised in that the retaining profiles (4a, 4b, 5b, 20, 21) of the long narrow sides are in the form of complementary positively engaging profiles (42, 43), wherein the positively engaging profile (42) of one panel (40) forms a common hinge (G) with the complementary positively engaging profile (43) of a second panel (41) in the laid condition and the hinge (G) is to be assembled by a rotary joining movement of the panels (40, 41).
7. A fastening system according to claim 6 characterised in that the hinge (G) is formed from an opening (52) in the narrow side of the second panel (41) and a matching projection (44) on the complementary narrow side of the first panel (40).
8. A fastening system according to claim 7 characterised in that the hinge (G) is formed from a concave curvature (55) in the inward wall (53) of the opening (52), which is towards the base (U), and a convex curvature (45) at the underside of the projection (44), which is towards the base (U), the top side of the projection (44) of a panel (40), which is remote from the base (U), has an inclined removal of material (51) which extends to the free end of the projection (44), the thickness of the projection (44) is increasingly reduced towards the free end by the removal of material (51) and that a free space for movement is afforded for the common hinge (G) by the removal of material (51).
9. A fastening system according to claim 8 characterised in that the convex curvature (45) of the projection (44) and the concave curvature (55) of the opening (52) substantially form a portion of a circle, wherein the centre point (K) of the portion of the circle is on or beneath the top side of the projection (44).
10. A fastening system according to claim 9 characterised in that the furthest projecting point of the convex curvature (45) of the projection (44) is so arranged that it is somewhat below the upper edge (48) of the panel (40).
11. A fastening system according to one of claims 9 and 10 characterised in that the lower wall (53) of the opening (52) of a panel (41), which is towards the base (U), has on its inside an inclined removal of material (56) which extends to the free end of the lower wall (53) and the wall thickness of said wall (53) is increasingly thinner towards the free end, wherein a free space (57) for movement for the common hinge (G) is provided by the removal of material (56), in the laid condition of two panels (40,41).
12. A fastening system according to one of claims 9 to 11 characterised in that the opening (52) of a panel (41) can be enlarged for connection to the projection (44) of a further panel (40) by resilient deformation of the lower wall (53) and the resilient deformation of the lower wall (53) which occurs during the joining operation is reversed again in the finished joined condition of two panels (40, 41).
13. A fastening system according to claim 6 characterised in that the positively engaging profiles (42, 43) are formed integrally at the narrow sides of the panels (40, 41).
14. A fastening system according to one of claims 1 to 5 characterised in that the panels (3, 4, 5, 6, 22, 23, 40, 41) substantially comprise an MDF, HDF or chipboard material.
15. A fastening system according to one of claims 1 to 6 characterised in that in the laid condition of the panels (3, 4, 5, 6, 22, 23, 40, 41) the free spaces (57, 58) for movement for the common hinges (G) are provided with a filler (60) which hardens in soft-elastic form.
16. A panel with a fastening system according to one of claims 1 to 15.

Images