EP1792551B1 - Foldable panel - Google Patents

Abstract

Folding plate has two plate parts separated from each other, which have a front side (4a,4b) and a back side (6a,6b). A hinge element (8) consisting of adhesive, whereby the hinge element connects the both plate parts (2a,2b) with each other in a tilted manner. Folding plate is made of a timber product or of wood. The hinge element is provided as an adhesive layer (10) on the back side of the plate parts.

Description

The invention relates to a foldable plate, in particular consisting of a wood material or wood, with two separate plate parts, each having a visible side and a back, and with a consisting of an adhesive hinge element, wherein the hinge element pivotally connects the two plate members together in that the two plate parts are pivotable between a first position in which the plate parts are arranged substantially in one plane and a second position, in which the back sides abut one another, wherein the hinge element is formed as an adhesive layer and the adhesive layer on the Rear sides of the plate parts is arranged.

Such plates are used in particular for furniture, both body parts and furniture back walls can consist of foldable plates. The advantage of foldability lies in the fact that the panels have a smaller dimension in the folded state and thus can be packed in smaller packages. The plates usually have a fold, but also folding plates are known which can be folded at two or more locations.

Foldable plates have long been known from the prior art, in which the plate parts with the aid of an adhesive tape, which is a tissue surrounding an adhesive has, are pivotally connected. The adhesive tape has the disadvantage that it can only be connected firmly enough to the wood material. Thus, it may come after some time to a detachment of the tape and thus to a unfitness of folding. In addition, a machine application of an adhesive tape is associated with technical problems.

Another prior art forms the EP 0 759 839 B1 from which a folding plate is known, whose separate plate parts are connected in the groove formed between them by means of an adhesive. Similar arrangements are from the DE 103 54 460 B3 and from the DE 198 04 787 A1 known. The differences between the embodiments are in the geometry of the groove shapes and the resulting hinge shapes. While out of the EP 0 759 839 B1 and the DE 198 04 787 A1 a V-groove can be seen, shows the DE 103 54 460 a groove with vertical groove flanks. In all three embodiments, the adhesive is disposed in a gap at the side edges. A disadvantage of these embodiments that the production is quite complex and that in the unfolded state of the adhesive between the two plate parts can be seen. This is done according to the EP 0 759 839 even optionally suggested that a color adjustment in the area of the visual pages is generated by an additional colored mass.

The DE 89 02 103 U1 discloses a mirror pillar having a plurality of side walls formed by mirrors, which are each hinged together along their facing, parallel side by side extending edge edges.

Furthermore, the disclosure US 3,741,843 a method for pivotally connecting two plates whose side edges abut each other in the contact area with a Klegemarnier. A disadvantage of this design is that the adhesive applied to the backsides protrudes beyond the back. The back with the adhesive layer is therefore not flat.

The present invention is therefore based on the technical problem of providing a foldable plate which can be produced inexpensively in a simple manner and which at least partially overcomes the disadvantages mentioned above.

According to the invention, the above-indicated technical problem is solved by a foldable plate having the features of the characterizing part of claim 1. For this purpose, according to the invention, in each case a depression in the plate parts is formed on both sides of the gap formed between the contiguous side edges of the two plate parts for receiving the adhesive layer.

This simple configuration ensures that the plate parts need only be placed against each other in the production, and then apply the adhesive. The set, but permanently elastic adhesive then serves as a rear hinge, while the side edges of the two plate parts abut each other in the unfolded state. Characterized a divided only by a slightly visible butt joint visible side is formed by both plate parts. At the same time, the adhesive is permanently bonded to the material of the plate parts because it is applied during the manufacturing process and sets in contact with the surface of the plate parts and forms a firm connection with the material.

The fact that in each case a recess in the plate parts is formed on both sides of the joint for receiving the adhesive layer, the introduced in the recess adhesive does not protrude beyond the back, so that there is a flat back. This will especially the Stacking of the unfolded plates facilitates, since in a plurality of superimposed plates no intermediate raised area is formed.

Preferably, the recesses have a substantially rectangular and flat shape, so that the adhesive can be applied in the form of a narrow band.

Alternatively, the recess having the adhesive may also have a non-flat shape. In a side view of the plate in the unfolded state of the recess bottom, a tooth-like shape, such as a sawtooth-like shape, or a corrugated shape or a W-shape or any other shape. Preferably, in all these embodiments of the recess base, the depth of the recess in the region of the side edges is just chosen so that the adhesive disposed in the recess in the region of the side edges does not protrude with its top over the plane formed by the backs of the plate parts. Furthermore, the depth of the recess is preferably chosen so small that the adhesive arranged in the recess is stretched as low as possible in the folded state of the plate.

In a further preferred embodiment, the depression having the adhesive has a shape in which the distance between the plane formed by the rear sides of the plate parts and the recess bottom in the region of the side edges of the plate parts is smaller than in the region of the recess edges. In particular, the recess base of a plate part in this case has one or more surfaces, of which at least one is arranged obliquely against the back of the plate member. The surfaces may also have a curvature or any other shape.

The arrangement of the adhesive on this opposite the back oblique and / or curved surfaces is advantageous, since so in the unfolded state and the folding process itself perpendicular to the plane of the backs or visible sides oppositely acting deformation forces can be better compensated. A shearing of the glue joint is thus largely avoided. Thus, a longer durability of the adhesive layer and the plate and thus the hinge function is ensured.

The foldable plate described above can thus be pivoted between a first position, in which the plate parts are arranged substantially in one plane, and a second position, in which the back sides abut one another. For storage or transport, the plates can thus be folded, while in use, for example, as a foldable furniture back wall, the plate is folded apart. This folding can be done several times, even at a considerable time interval.

In a further preferred refinement of the foldable plate, the edge regions of the plate parts abutting one another in the unfolded state are colored with a coloring agent to suit the design of the visible side. In particular, this coloration can be carried out by dyeing and / or painting and / or pickling and / or transfer finish. This coloring, which is adapted to the visible side, is particularly advantageous in the case of a dark design of the visible side, since the observer is thus prevented from disturbing color differences between the visible side and the region of the lateral edge. But it is not limited to dark designs of the visuals.

In addition, can be compensated by the appropriate choice of the layer thickness, such as an applied paint or paint, manufacturing tolerances in the manufacture of the plate parts. This additionally improves the optical quality of the folding plate for the viewer.

In particular, printing techniques can be used to apply the color, the lacquer, the stain or the transfer finish and / or roll techniques and / or spray techniques and / or transfer printing techniques and / or other techniques disclosed in the art.

In a further preferred embodiment of the foldable plate, the mutually facing side edges of the plate parts to an adhesive. The applied to the side edges of adhesive performs a different function than the applied on the backs of the plate parts, permanently elastic adhesive that connects the two plate parts together in the joint between the side edges. The adhesive applied to the side edges will therefore be referred to hereinafter as edge adhesive.

Are the side edges of two plate parts in abutment against each other, ie in the unfolded state, wherein the applied on the backs in the region of the joint between the plate parts, permanently elastic adhesive layer performs the function of a hinge, give the provided with an edge adhesive side edges of the folding plate an additional Stability. In particular, the edge adhesive can be applied to the side edges together with the colorant. However, it is also possible to apply colorants and edge adhesive separately from each other.

Particularly preferred are edge adhesive whose adhesive effect is effective only at a first stress. For example, the first stress may be mechanical stress, such as compressive forces and / or shear and / or friction forces, when two side edges of a foldable plate the application of the edge adhesive are brought together for the first time in plant.

It is also possible to provide edge adhesives which become active by first stresses, such as heat and / or electromagnetic radiation, for example irradiation with UV light, and / or moisture, for example treatment with water, and / or chemical processes, for example application of a solvent. Particularly preferably, the edge adhesive has a matrix which is provided with the microcapsules containing the adhesive. For example, the side edges may be provided with a polymer film having microcapsules containing the adhesive.

In particular, the production of the plate parts according to the invention with the side edge having an edge adhesive and suitably colored to the visible side simplifies when the colorant has a matrix with the adhesive-containing microcapsules, so that colorants and edge adhesive can be applied in one step.

Because of the cost-effective manufacturing method, the plate described can be used in particular as a product in the low cost segment, so that the folding on the visible sides have no significant disadvantage over the other known from the prior art more expensive plates.

Fig. 1

ein Ausführungsbeispiel einer faltbaren Platte aus dem Stand der Technik im auseinander gefalteten Zustand,

Fig. 2

das in Fig. 1 dargestellte Ausführungsbeispiel aus dem Stand der Technik im zusammengefalteten Zustand,

Fig. 3

ein erstes Ausführungsbeispiel einer erfindungsgemäßen faltbaren Platte im auseinander gefalteten Zustand und

Fig. 4

das in Fig. 3 dargestellte Ausführungsbeispiel im zusammengefalteten Zustand.

Fig. 5

ein zweites Ausführungsbeispiel einer erfindungsgemäßen faltbaren Platte im auseinander gefalteten Zustand und

Fig. 6

das in Fig. 5 dargestellte Ausführungsbeispiel im zusammengefalteten Zustand.

In the following the invention will be explained in more detail by means of embodiments, reference being made to the accompanying drawings. In the drawing show

Fig. 1

an embodiment of a foldable plate of the prior art in the unfolded state,

Fig. 2

this in Fig. 1 illustrated embodiment of the prior art in the folded state,

Fig. 3

a first embodiment of a foldable plate according to the invention in the unfolded state and

Fig. 4

this in Fig. 3 illustrated embodiment in the folded state.

Fig. 5

A second embodiment of a foldable plate according to the invention in the unfolded state and

Fig. 6

this in Fig. 5 illustrated embodiment in the folded state.

In the Fig. 1 and 2 For example, one embodiment of a foldable plate 2 of the prior art is shown having two separate plate parts 2a and 2b.

The plate parts 2a, 2b, and thus the plate 2, consist in particular of a wood material, such as medium-density fiber material (MDF), high density fiber material (HDF), hard fiber material, chipboard material or Oriented Strand Board Material (OSB material), made of natural wood, from a plastic, from a wood / plastic mixture or from a metal. In other words, the invention is not limited to a particular plate material.

The plate parts 2a, 2b each have a visible side 4a, 4b and a back 6a, 6b. The visible sides 4a, 4b can be formed by a laminate coating with decorative paper, a foil coating or by a direct application of paint or varnish. In any case, the visible sides form the sides of the plate 2, which is "seen" in the use of the plate, for example as a furniture back wall by the user.

The two plate parts 2a, 2b are connected to a hinge element 8 consisting of an adhesive, so that the hinge element 8 connects the two plate parts 2a, 2b to one another in a pivotable manner. In this case, the hinge element 8 represents the sole connection means for the otherwise separate plate parts 2a, 2b.

The hinge member 8 is formed as an adhesive layer 10 on the back surfaces 6a, 6b of the plate members 2a, 2b. For this purpose, the adhesive layer 10 is located in the region of the joint 14 formed between the adjoining side edges 12a, 12b of the two plate parts 2a, 2b. Thus, the adhesive layer 10 is arranged on both sides of the gap 14 and can exert the provided hinge function.

The adhesive can consist of different types of adhesive. The conditions on the properties of the adhesive are that during use sufficient strength for the connection of the plate parts 2a, 2b on the one hand and sufficient elasticity for folding the plate parts 2a, 2b are present on the other hand. Therefore, the adhesive must above all have permanently elastic properties. In addition, the adhesive should be fusible for ease of application to the plate members. For example, permanently elastic thermoplastic adhesives can be used, in particular polyurethane adhesives can be used. In particular, adhesives are also provided which have a net-like band and / or which are reinforced with fibers and thus increase the stability of the hinge function.

Fig. 1 shows the foldable plate 2 of the prior art in a first position in which the plate parts 2 a, 2 b are folded apart. Thus represents - for example, in the case of a furniture back wall - this condition is the intended use.

Fig. 2 on the other hand shows the foldable plate 2 of the prior art in a second position in which the plate parts 2a, 2b folded and the visible sides 4a, 4b facing each other. In this state, the plate 2 can be stored and transported to save space.

In the 3 and 4 a first embodiment of a plate 2 according to the invention is shown, wherein like reference numerals the same elements of the plate 2 as in the Fig. 1 and 2 mark.

In contrast to the embodiment of the prior art , a recess 16a, 16b in the plate parts 2a, 2b formed on both sides of the joint 14 for receiving the adhesive layer 10 in each case. This leads that in the area of the glue hinge in the in Fig. 4 shown position does not come to a job by the adhesive itself and a planar system of the backs 6a, 6b of the two plate parts 2a, 2b is possible. The same applies to the in the Fig. 3 shown position when several plates 2 are laid flat in the unfolded state.

As is clear from the 3 and 4 results, the recess 16a, 16b have a substantially rectangular and flat shape. Accordingly, then results in a flat shape of the glue hinge itself.

In the FIGS. 5 and 6 a second embodiment of a plate 2 according to the invention is shown, wherein like reference numerals the same elements of the plate 2 as in the Fig. 1 to 4 mark.

In contrast to the first exemplary embodiment, the recess base 16a, 16b of both plate parts 2a, 2b for receiving the adhesive layer 10 essentially has two surfaces 18a, 18b and 19a, 19b. The first surface 19a, 19b situated in the region of the side edges 12a, 12b on both plate parts 2a, 2b runs parallel to the rear sides 6a, 6b. The surface 19a, 19b is arranged in the direction of the visible sides 4a, 4b preferably spaced from the plane formed by the backs 6a, 6b. As a result, the upper side of an adhesive layer 10 applied to the first surface 19a, 19b can lie in a plane with the rear sides 6a, 6b. However, it is also possible for the top side of an adhesive layer 10 applied to the first surface 19a, 19b to lie below the plane formed by the rear sides 6a, 6b.

The second surface 18a, 18b of the recess base extends obliquely against the visible sides 4a, 4b from the side edges 12a, 12b facing away from the end of the first surface 19a, 19b to the recess edge 17a, 17b of the plate parts 2a, 2b. The distance between the formed by the backs 6a, 6b Level and the recess bottom is therefore in the region of the side edges 12a, 12b smaller than in the side edges facing away from the area of the recessed edges 17a, 17b. As a result, shearing forces acting perpendicular to the backs or visible sides are better absorbed and thus increased stability of the hinge function is ensured.

Because in contrast to the embodiments according to the Fig. 1 to 4 causes the special shape of the recess bottom, that in addition to the shear forces occurring at the parallel to the back sides 6a, 6b now also tensile forces for tearing off of the adhesive must be overcome. These tensile forces occur on the inclined surfaces 18a, 18b.

The proportion of the first surface 19a, 19b on the entire recess base of a plate member 2a or 2b is preferably about 20%. Accordingly, the preferred proportion of the second surface 18a, 18b on the entire well base of a plate member 2a, 2b is about 80%. The respective shares are not limited to this ratio. Thus, for example, the first surface 19a, 19b occupy 100% of the entire recess base area of a plate part 2a, 2b, which then the embodiment of the 3 and 4 equivalent.

The angle enclosed by the rear sides 6a, 6b and the second surface 18a, 18b depends on the plate thickness and is more preferably about 0 ° to 20 ° for the size ratios exemplified in the figures, as is usual in the case of furniture back panels Way 5 °. For larger plate thicknesses, this angle may preferably be up to about 30 °.

The depth of the recessed edges 17a, 17b is adjusted to the thickness of the plate member while being as small as possible. The depth of the recessed edges 17a, 17b preferably extends up to a maximum of half the plate thickness from the rear sides 6a, 6b into the plate material.

Claims (11)

1. Foldable board

   - with two board sections (2a, 2b)separated from each other, each of which has a visible side (4a, 4b) and a rear side (6a, 6b),

   - with a hinge element (8) consisting of an adhesive,

   - whereby the hinge element (8) connects the two board sections(2a, 2b) in a pivotable manner so that the two board sections can be pivoted between a first position in which the board sections are essentially arranged in one plane, and a second position in which the rear sides rest against each other,

   - whereby the hinge element (8) is constructed as an adhesive layer (10) and

   - whereby the adhesive layer (10) is arranged on the rear sides (6a, 6b) of the board sections (2a, 2b), characterised in that

   - a recess (16a, 16b) is each arranged in the board sections (2a, 2b) on each side of the joint (14) formed between the adjoining side edges (12a, 12b) of the two board sections (2a, 2b) in order to accommodate the adhesive layer (10).
2. Board in accordance with claim 1
   characterised in that
   the recesses (16a, 16b) are essentially rectangular and flat in shape.
3. Board in accordance with claim 1
   characterised in that
   the distance between the plane formed by the rear sides (6a, 6b) and the base of the recess in the area of the side edges (12a, 12b) is smaller than in the area of the recess edges (17a, 17b).
4. Board in accordance with claim 3
   characterised in that
   the base of the recess of at least one board section (2a, 2b) has at least one surface (18a, 18b) that is obliquely arranged against the rear side (6a, 6b) of the board section(2a, 2b).
5. Board in accordance with claim 4,
   characterised in that
   the surface (18a, 18b) is of a flat shape or of an at least partially curved shape.
6. Board in accordance with any one of claims 3 to 5
   characterised in that
   the adhesive layer (10) is at least partially arranged on the surface (18a, 18b).
7. Board in accordance with any one of claims 1 to 6
   characterised in that the adhesive is a permanently elastic adhesive.
8. Board in accordance with any one of claims 1 to 7
   characterised in that
   the adhesive can be melted.
9. Board in accordance with any one of claims 1 to 8,
   characterised in that the adhesive comprises a mesh-like strip and/or is reinforced with fibres.
10. Board in accordance with any one of claims 1 to 9
    characterised in that
    the edge areas (12a, 12b) of the board sections (2a, 2b) which rest against each other in the folded-out state, are coloured with a colouring agent to match the visible sides (4a, 4b) by painting and/or varnishing and/or etching and/or transfer finishing.
11. Board in accordance with any one of claims 1 to 10
    characterised in that the
    side edges (12a, 12b) have an edge adhesive.

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