FR2834527A1 - Modular flooring system with framed slabs comprises series of identical and rigid slab framing modules placed relative to one another to form exposed grid of slabs - Google Patents

Abstract

The flooring system comprises slabs (7) and a series of identical and rigid slab framing modules (1,8). The framing modules of the series are complementary so as to be placed relative to one another to form an exposed grid of slabs. There are means for assembling the modules together in a removable way designed to impose a relative orientation of the modules and link them in one plane and enable, once the flooring system is installed, to remove any one of the framing modules by manipulating only that module.

Description

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MODULAR FLOOR COVERING WITH FRAMED TILES
The invention relates to a modular floor covering with slabs and visible framing modules of said slabs contributing to the aesthetic appearance of the covering.

 The inventor determined that it would be desirable to be able to produce a floor covering combining tiles of all types-such as terracotta tiles, ceramics, etc., or tiles of carpet or other synthetic material such as PVC. , or natural fiber slabs (coconut, sisal, seagrass, etc.), or glass slabs-, and visible framing modules of said slabs, such as wooden or laminated slats or metal blades. Such a coating, manufactured and marketed industrially, does not exist today, but could meet with great success with customers looking for new coatings of high-end appearance but inexpensive.

 There are floor coverings combining tiles (ceramic tiles, terracotta, silica mortar, glazed tiles ...) and planks of wood or laminate, or even silica mortar with a finish imitating the wood, forming a decorative frame for said tiles. Wood or laminate boards are in the form of long straight boards. Some are used to form beams; the others are cut out to make the connecting crosspieces of said longitudinal members, of a length substantially equal to the width of the tiles. Such a floor covering is laid like a usual tiling: a first spar board being laid and glued to the ground, we juxtapose the first spar board, and we glue, a first row of tiles and transverse boards alternately, then juxtaposes said first row, and a second spar board is glued, leaving a clearance between each of the elements to allow the production of a cement joint. The alignment (with play) of the various elements (tiles and boards), the preparation of the cement of sealing and the realization of the joints, are not easy things for a neophyte; the installation of such a covering uses professional techniques and tools and must be entrusted

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 to a specialist. In addition, this laying process is incompatible with the use of synthetic or natural fiber tiles (carpet, coconut, sisal, etc.).

 WO 00/20706 describes a floor covering formed of boards and of joining profiles of said boards making it possible to align, space and connect adjacent boards together. On two of its edges, each board has for this purpose a groove on its edge and a groove on its lower face (near said edge), into which are inserted respectively a horizontal rib and a vertical rib of the adjacent junction profile. . A decorative strip, the upper surface of which can be metallic or covered with a thermosetting laminate, can be added, once the profile is laid, in a gap acting as an expansion joint left above the profile between the two boards. The profiles are presented in the form of very long rolls, and are cut to the length of each board during installation. The junction device described is not suitable for producing visible framing of slabs, in particular of any slabs: it can only be used with slabs or boards having peripheral mounting grooves complementary to the ribs of the device; made of relatively flexible synthetic material, it has a width limited to a few tens of millimeters due to its poor mechanical strength.

In addition, its installation process involves measurements and manipulations (cutting of profiles, subsequent installation of decorative strips, etc.) which make its implementation complex and long.

 The invention aims to propose a modular floor covering comprising slabs and visible modules for framing said slabs, in which the slabs can be of all types, and in particular terracotta, ceramic, silica mortar, glass, carpet, PVC, natural fibers, wood, laminate, etc. The invention also aims to propose a method of laying a modular covering allowing the use of tiles of all types. In particular, an objective of the invention is to allow the use of known tiles, of standard dimensions, shapes and materials.

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 It also aims to propose such a floor covering which is ready-to-install, and whose installation is simple and quick. It aims in particular to propose a modular coating whose relative positioning (and in particular the relative alignment and orientation) of its various constituent elements is automatic, imposed, invariable, and does not involve any measuring instrument. In particular, it aims to propose a modular floor covering, the shape of the peripheral framing of slabs produced by the framing modules being imposed by the shape of said modules and / or by means of assembling the modules together.

 Another objective of the invention is to provide a floor covering, the installation of which requires no sealing material of the glue or cement type, or any tool, possibly excluding a screwdriver and / or a saw in view of cutting to the required dimensions an element intended to be placed at the edge of a wall.

 Another object of the invention is to provide a floor covering and a laying method allowing the subsequent removal and / or replacement, simple (s) and quick (s), of any of its constituent elements. In particular, the invention makes it possible, in a preferred version, to deposit and / or replace a slab and / or a covering framing module without having to deposit or even manipulate the elements which are adjacent to it.

 Another objective of the invention is to propose such a floor covering that can be manufactured industrially, at low cost prices and compatible with marketing to the general public.

 In the following, the various constituent parts of the coating according to the invention are described as placed on the ground, in an absolute frame of reference defined by the ground and a direction orthogonal to said ground, called vertical direction. An element or a horizontal plane is an element or a plane at least substantially parallel to the ground (once the covering has been laid). Each strip, or other element having a dimension in a horizontal direction (straight or curved) much greater than the others, defined by

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 elsewhere a relative reference system which is specific to it, and which comprises the vertical direction, a longitudinal direction of said strip (contained in a horizontal plane and corresponding to the direction of its largest dimension), and a transverse direction of said strip (orthogonal to longitudinal and vertical directions at any point). A lateral element of a part is an element extending mainly in a plane orthogonal to its transverse direction, at one end of said part.

 The invention relates to a modular floor covering comprising slabs and at least one series of identical and rigid slab frame modules at least in one plane (which is at least substantially parallel to the ground when the covering is laid), the modules framing of the series (s) being complementary so as to be able to be placed relative to each other to form an apparent framing lattice of said slabs having meshes of dimensions at least substantially identical to those of slabs, characterized in that it comprises means for detachably assembling the framing modules together, adapted to impose a relative orientation of said modules and to link them rigidly in at least one plane (horizontal), so as to make it possible to achieve automatic (i.e. without having to define or adjust, visually or by means of a measuring instrument, the relative position of the modules) a frame lattice rigid.

 Advantageously and according to the invention, the removable assembly means are adapted to allow for (subsequent) removal of any of the covering modules by only handling said module and / or the only modules and / or slabs adjacent to it. In particular, in an advantageous version of the invention, the removable assembly means are adapted to allow any of the modules to be deposited without having to deposit or even handle another module, including the modules which are adjacent to it. (and to which it is directly assembled). The removable assembly means are in particular adapted to allow coupling and / or dissociation of two adjacent framing modules by simple relative movement of said modules in the vertical direction.

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 In the following, a strip designates an element having a main dimension, in a horizontal plane, much greater than the others, which defines a longitudinal direction of the strip. This longitudinal direction can be straight or curved; the lateral edges of the strip can be indifferently straight or curved or serrated for example. In a version of the invention with square or more generally polygonal tiles, the framing modules of at least one series have a general shape of straight strip. In particular, in one version of the invention, the framing modules of all the series have a general form of straight strip. In this case, and if the slabs are square or rectangular, two adjacent modules are either aligned (parallel) and joined to one another by one of their longitudinal ends, or orthogonal, one of the modules being assembled by a from its longitudinal ends to one of the side edges of the other module. According to the invention, the removable assembly means are then adapted to allow, according to the two adjacent modules considered, either to align the modules, or to impose an angle of 90 between them.

 In a preferred version of the invention having square or rectangular slabs, the floor covering comprises a first series of identical modules having a general shape of straight strip of any width and length at least substantially equal to a first side of the slabs ( dimension in a first direction: length or width for rectangular slabs, side for square slabs), and a second series of identical modules having a general shape of straight strip of length at least substantially equal to the sum of twice the width d '' a module of the first series and double on the other side of the tiles (dimension in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction: width or length for rectangular tiles, side for square tiles). As a variant, the length of the modules of the second series is at least substantially equal to the sum of the width of a module of the first series and the dimension of the tiles in the second direction.

 As a variant, advantageously and according to the invention, the framing modules of at least one series have a general form of

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 non-straight strip adapted to define at least one characteristic angle of a mesh of the trellis (formed by the framing modules) or a curved portion characteristic of a mesh of the trellis. "Non-straight strip" means a strip of curved longitudinal direction - or having at least one curved portion - or a rectilinear strip formed of several - at least two straight strips having straight longitudinal directions not parallel or a strip having one or more curved portion (s) and one or more straight portion (s). A characteristic angle of the mesh is at an angle of a polygonal envelope of the mesh. Similarly, the term "characteristic curve portion of the mesh" means a portion of an envelope curve of the mesh. This is to exclude, in the case of slabs with serrated edges for example (the dimensions of the teeth being much smaller than the main dimensions of the slab), the angles or curves formed by the teeth of the slab. According to the invention, in this latter variant, the framing modules therefore comprise at least two straight bands, the longitudinal directions of which form an angle corresponding to a characteristic angle of the slab (or mesh of the trellis), or at least one curved band the longitudinal direction of which follows a characteristic curve portion of the slab (or mesh).

 Thus, in the case of tiles having the shape of a polygon, the framing modules of at least one series have a shape adapted to define at least one interior angle of said polygon. In other words, the shape of the framing modules is adapted to frame at least one polygon vertex of a slab, that is to say to follow a portion of the contour of a slab which comprises two consecutive sides of the slab (or a fraction of said sides extending from their point of intersection called the vertex). In the case of square or rectangular slabs, the framing modules of at least one series each preferably include at least two orthogonal straight bands. In particular, the framing modules each comprise two unique orthogonal straight bands, or, alternatively, three straight bands, one of which is orthogonal to the other two.

 In a version of the invention in which the floor covering comprises square or rectangular tiles, the framing modules

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 at least one series each comprise two straight orthogonal bands, one, first, of any width and length at least substantially equal to a first side of the slabs (width or length), and the other, second, of length at least substantially equal to the sum of the width of the first strip and the other side of the slabs (second side orthogonal to the first side: length or width), the first strip being fixed, by a longitudinal end, in the center of a side face of the second strip so as to define the shape of a T.

 As a variant, advantageously and according to the invention, the framing modules of at least one series each comprise two first parallel straight bands, facing one another, of the same length and of any width (preferably of same width), each fixed orthogonally, by a longitudinal end, on a lateral face of a third straight strip, opposite two sections of this third strip delimiting two end portions of the same length and a central portion of said third strip, the central portion having a length at least substantially equal to twice the length of an end portion, so that the framing module has the form of a double T or an n. The length of the first two strips is at least substantially equal to one side (length or width) of the tiles; that of the third strip is at least substantially equal to the sum of the cumulative widths of the first and second strips and double the other side (width or length) of said slabs.

 Advantageously and according to the invention, the removable assembly means of two adjacent framing modules, assembled together at at least one point, called assembly point, comprise at least one rigid element formed by two portions, called branches, one of said branches being intended to be fitted under one, first, of the framing modules in a corresponding lower housing of said first module extending from the assembly point, the other of said branches being intended to be fitted under the other, second, framing modules in a corresponding lower housing of said second module extending from the assembly point.

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 In particular, in the case of two adjacent framing modules each comprising at least one straight strip intended to be assembled, by one of its longitudinal ends, to a longitudinal end of a straight strip of the other module, said strips defining between them a non-zero and distinct assembly angle of 180 (corresponding to an angle characteristic of a mesh of the trellis; that is to say at least substantially equal to 90 in the case of square or rectangular slabs), l the assembly element comprises an angle formed by two flat plates or two straight bars (each plate or bar defines a branch of the element) defining between them an angle corresponding to said assembly angle. Each of the two strips has, at its longitudinal assembly end, a lower recess or groove (e) extending in the longitudinal direction of the strip and forming a housing for receiving one of the plates or bars of the angle.

 In the case of two adjacent framing modules each comprising at least one straight strip intended to be assembled, by one of its longitudinal ends, to a longitudinal end of a straight strip of the other module so that the two strips are aligned (they form an angle of zero or equal to 180 between them), the assembly element comprises at least one straight bar or a flat plate. Said strips each have, at their longitudinal assembly end, a lower recess or groove (e) extending in the longitudinal direction of the strip and forming a housing for receiving a portion of said bar or plate (each portion, for example each half, of the plate or bar defining a branch of the assembly element). As a variant, the two recesses or grooves are offset, and the assembly element comprises two parallel bars or non-aligned plates connected to one another at one of their longitudinal ends.

 In the case of two adjacent framing modules, one of which comprises at least a first straight strip intended to be assembled, by one of its longitudinal ends, to a lateral edge of a second straight strip of the other module in one point of said edge called assembly point, said first and second strips defining between them an angle of assembly not

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 null and distinct from 180 (corresponding to an angle characteristic of a mesh of the trellis; that is to say at least substantially equal to 90 in the case of square or rectangular slabs), the assembly element comprises an angle formed of two flat plates or two straight bars defining between them an angle corresponding to said assembly angle. The first strip has a transverse lower notch in its lateral edge at the point of assembly, extended by a lower recess or groove (e) extending in its longitudinal direction and forming a housing for receiving one of the plates or angle bars. The second strip has a lower recess or groove (e) extending in its longitudinal direction at its longitudinal assembly end and forming a housing for receiving the other plate or bar of the angle. In the case of square tiles, the angle of assembly is equal to 90 and the angle is a square.

 In the case of two adjacent framing modules each comprising at least one straight strip intended to be assembled, by one of its lateral edges, to a lateral edge of a strip of the other module so that the two strips are parallel and juxtaposed, the assembly element comprises at least two straight bars or flat plates (each forming a branch of said element) parallel, interconnected at one of their longitudinal ends by a bottom. The bands each have, in their lateral edge, at their assembly point, a transverse lower notch for receiving said bottom, and a recess or lower groove) extending in their longitudinal direction from said assembly point and forming a housing for receiving one of said bars or plates.

 The fact that the various recesses or grooves for receiving the branches of the connecting element extend in the longitudinal direction of the strips is particularly advantageous in the case of strips made from extruded metal profiles, as will be explained below. after. Said recesses or grooves are then defined by the very shape of the profile.

 In a preferred version of the invention, the removable assembly means for two adjacent framing modules comprise,

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 in addition, blocking means capable of preventing relative movement of the framing modules and of the assembly element. To this end, each of the branches of the assembly element preferably comprises a plate or portion of plate (extending, once the adjacent framing modules are assembled, in the longitudinal direction of the strip of the framing module receiving said branch) having at least one threaded hole intended to cooperate with a coaxial threaded hole passing through a lateral edge of the framing module opposite the housing for receiving said plate, in order to fix each of the framing modules on the element assembly by means of a fixing screw (passing through the lateral edge of said module and the branch of the facing assembly element) accessible from said lateral edge of said framing module. Thus, according to the invention, to deposit a framing module for the floor covering, one or more slab (s) adjacent to said module are deposited so as to be able to access the module fixing screws on the various assembly elements. to which it is coupled, the said screws are removed, then the said framing module is lifted in order to dissociate it from the said assembly elements. There is no need to remove or even handle the adjacent framing modules.

 In a variant in accordance with the invention, the removable assembly means of each framing module comprise at least one interlocking structure intended to be fitted, in a vertical direction, into a combined interlocking structure of an adjacent framing module. The removable assembly means of two adjacent framing modules also preferably include blocking means capable of preventing relative movement of the mating interlocking structures of said modules. In particular, the conjugate interlocking structures are adapted to define, when they are interlocked, a common horizontal bore intended to receive a rod in order to prohibit their relative movement. As a variant (or possibly in combination), the interlocking structure of a framing module comprises a vertical stud intended to come to fit in a vertical mortise joint of the conjugate interlocking structure of the adjacent framing module. The post is then

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 preferably made of a material which can be deformed (at least slightly) in an elastic manner, and has at least one horizontal shoulder defining a head of the post intended to be forced into a conjugate head of the mortise in order to prohibit the relative vertical displacement of the interlocking interlocking structures.

 Advantageously and according to the invention, the floor covering comprises a single series of framing modules, both identical and complementary. It should be noted that, in a version of the invention comprising at least two different series of framing modules (the modules of the same series being identical), the modules of one series are complementary to the modules of the other (or other) series (s) to form a frame for each of the tiles.

 Advantageously and according to the invention, the framing modules comprise one or more metal profiles each having an upper housing for receiving a decorative blade such as a wooden blade, a laminated material blade, a metal blade, a blade in silica mortar, ceramic, terracotta, or even a carpet blade, PVC ... "Laminate" means a material composed of sawdust amalgamated with an adhesive and forming a rigid blade on which is pasted at least one sheet of decorative paper, such as a photograph representing the appearance of wood, coated with a protective layer of resin or wax. Such a material, the cost of which is lower than that of raw wood, is particularly solid and resistant; it is commonly used for the production of parquet floors.

 The metal profile gives the framing module mechanical strength compatible with the operating costs intended to be borne by said module. It also allows easy and precise industrial production of the module: very long sections are produced by extrusion and then cut to the dimensions required to form strips of modules. The decorative strip is preferably glued to the profile in the factory, so that the module is delivered ready-to-install in its final version.

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 Advantageously and according to the invention, each metal profile incorporates lower elastic damping means defining a bearing surface of the framing module on the ground. These means absorb the noise which could be generated by the impact of the framing module on the ground following mechanical stress such as the step of a person on said module. Thus, each metal profile comprises, for example, at least one lower housing for receiving a strip of slightly elastic synthetic material, of the rubber or other injected or profiled foam type, projecting from the profile in the vertical direction.

 It should be noted that the covering optionally includes means for fixing to the ground at least one framing module, such as a fixing flange having at least one horizontal tab screwed into the ground.

 Advantageously and according to the invention, each slab is formed of a plurality of superimposed elementary plates, including at least one lower catching plate and an upper finishing plate. The thickness (dimension in the vertical direction) of the lower take-up plate is chosen according to the thickness of the upper finishing plate and the thickness of the framing modules so that the total thickness of the slab or at least substantially equal, preferably exactly equal, to the thickness of the framing modules.

 Each lower take-up plate is chosen from a chipboard, rubber, cardboard, rigid foam, etc. plate. (this list is not exhaustive). The take-up plate is preferably made of a sound-insulating material and / or capable of absorbing the mechanical shocks undergone by the slab. Depending on the applications, the material chosen is thermally insulating or, on the contrary, conductive (especially in the presence of a heated floor). It is in any case the least expensive possible.

 Each upper finishing plate is chosen from a terracotta tile, a ceramic tile, a stone slab, a synthetic fiber plate such as a carpet plate, a plate of synthetic material of the PVC type, a fiber plate such as sisal or coconut or seagrass, a solid wood or laminate plate, a

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 aluminum, a tempered glass slab, a combination of a tempered glass slab and a decorative intermediate plate chosen from a piece of fabric, a piece of wallpaper, a natural fiber plate of the so-called sisal type or of the so-called type coconut or seagrass, a synthetic fiber plate such as carpet, etc.

 Advantageously and according to the invention, the floor covering comprises square tiles with a side at least substantially equal to 50 cm (standard tiles). The framing modules comprise one or more strips each having a width (dimension in the transverse direction) at least substantially constant and between 1 cm and 25 cm, preferably between 5 cm and 15 cm, preferably substantially equal to 12, 8 cm. Each slab, each framing module preferably has a thickness in the vertical direction at least substantially constant and equal to 15 mm.

 The invention also relates to a method for laying such a covering, characterized in that complementary framing modules are juxtaposed and assembled together so as to produce a rigid lattice of apparent framing of slabs defining meshes receiving said slabs, and a slab is placed in each mesh thus defined. Due to their complementary shapes and their assembly means unequivocally defining their relative position and orientation, the framing modules are positioned "automatically" with respect to each other. In particular, it is not necessary to use a measuring instrument, the angles and the distances between two portions of a mesh of the trellis being predefined. Once the framing modules have been installed and assembled, the tiles are laid in the meshes defined by said modules, which have geometric shape (s) and dimensions identical to those of the tiles, with a clearance of less than 1 mm (preferably less than 0.5 mm) allowing the installation of said slabs. Each slab thus fits vertically into a mesh of the trellis, is placed directly on the ground, and is preferably not glued to the ground, nor fixed or glued to the modules that frame it. So that each slab can be laid and / or removed without having to move the adjacent framing modules. The installation process is simple and quick, the relative positioning of the framing modules is error-free

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 possible. This process can be carried out by any person, having no particular aptitude.

 Advantageously and according to the invention, there is at least one rigid assembly element between each module and an adjacent framing module, by inserting a first branch of said element in the corresponding housing of one of the framing modules and the second branch in the corresponding housing of the other framing module. If necessary, each of the two modules is fixed to the assembly element or elements connecting the two modules by means of fixing screws. As a variant, each framing module is assembled to at least one adjacent framing module by vertical interlocking of their conjugate interlocking structure (s) and, where appropriate, fitting means blocking.

 Advantageously and according to the invention, the position of the rigid lattice-produced by the framing modules is manually adjusted relative to at least one wall delimiting the ground to be covered.

 At least one end of at least one framing module intended to be placed at the edge of a wall is cut, where appropriate, the dimensions of each cut framing module being adapted to allow a clearance of the '' from 1 to 5 mm between the framing module and said wall, and we have on the end of the framing module, above said set, a plinth or a rod called quarter round which we stick on said wall.

 It is optionally possible to fix at least one of the framing modules to the ground, by gluing or by means of a fixing flange having at least one horizontal tab screwed into the ground (such a flange is preferably arranged on the end a framing module adjacent to a wall, so as to hide the said flange by the plinth or quarter-round strip). It is also possible to glue the slabs or a lower part of the slabs to the ground such as the lower take-up plates.

 The invention also relates to a floor covering and a method of laying said covering, characterized in combination by all or some of the characteristics mentioned above and below.

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Other objects, characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear on reading the following description which refers to the appended figures representing preferential embodiments of the invention given solely by way of nonlimiting examples, and in which: - Figure 1 is a top view of two embodiments of floor coverings according to the invention, - Figure 2 is a schematic view in cross section (vertical) of a portion of a framing module and d 'a slab according to the invention, - Figure 3 is a schematic view in cross section (vertical) of a portion of another embodiment of the framing module and slab according to the invention, - Figure 4 is a schematic perspective view of portions of two framing modules, assembled perpendicularly according to a first embodiment of assembly means according to the invention, - Figure 5 is a schematic perspective view of e portions of two framing modules, assembled in parallel according to a first embodiment of assembly means according to the invention, - Figure 6 is a schematic perspective view of portions of two framing modules, assembled perpendicularly according to a second embodiment of assembly means according to the invention, - Figure 7 is a schematic perspective view of portions of two framing modules, assembled in parallel according to a second embodiment of assembly means according to the invention, - FIG. 8 is a schematic view in horizontal section of interlocking structures combined with two adjacent framing modules according to the invention, - FIG. 9 is a schematic view in vertical section of the interlocking structures of Figure 8,

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 FIG. 10 is a schematic view in vertical section of another embodiment of interlocking structures of two adjacent framing modules according to the invention, - FIG. 11 is a top view of another embodiment a floor covering according to the invention.

 FIG. 1 illustrates a first embodiment of a floor covering according to the invention, comprising visible framing modules 1, 8.10 and square tiles 7. The outline of framing module 1 is drawn in lines bold in order to clearly define said module. It has the general shape of a double T, made from three strips 2, 3 and 4: the strips 3 and 4 are welded and / or glued and / or fixed orthogonally to the strip 2 by any suitable means, at a of their longitudinal ends 3a, 4a, on a lateral face of said strip 2. The strips 3 and 4 are positioned relative to the strip 2 so as to produce a piece symmetrical with respect to a transverse plane separating the strip 2 into two equal parts (transverse plane of symmetry of said strip 2), and such that the two symmetrical portions of the module each have the shape of a T, generally symmetrical with respect to a longitudinal (vertical) plane separating the strip 3 (respectively 4) in two half-strips of equal width. As a variant, it is possible to use T-shaped framing modules (each corresponding to one of the above-mentioned portions of the double T).

 The strips may be entirely metallic strips, preferably hollowed out so as to lighten the structure of the floor covering. It can also be solid, wooden or laminate boards. In a preferred version, the strips are multi-component: they are made from metal profiles, preferably aluminum, and have an upper decorative strip glued or fixed by any suitable means on the metal profile. The material of the decorative strip is chosen according to the desired aesthetic effect. The metal profiles serve as a support for the decorative blade, and also allow a seal to be formed between said blade and the ground. This characteristic is particularly useful in the case of a decorative wooden or laminate blade, particularly sensitive to humidity, not

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seulement pour préserver ladite lame une fois le revêtement de sol posé, mais aussi pour permettre la pose du revêtement sur un sol fraîchement réalisé et e encore relativement humide. En effet, une telle lame en bois ou stratifié, en l'absence du profilé métallique, ne peut être posée que sur un sol ou un support parfaitement sec. Ce qui induit un respect strict des temps de séchage dudit sol et peut allonger considérablement le délai de réalisation du revêtement, notamment dans le cas d'un sol comprenant une chape relativement chargée en eau telle qu'une chape réalisée sur un plancher chauffant du type plancher rayonnant électrique ou autre plancher hydraulique (une telle chape exige un temps de séchage variant de 1 à 8 mois selon l'humidité ambiante). La présence du profilé métallique supportant et protégeant la lame décorative autorise la pose des modules d'encadrement sur un sol encore relativement humide, et permet donc de réduire considérablement le temps de réalisation du revêtement de sol.

only to preserve said blade once the floor covering has been laid, but also to allow the covering to be laid on freshly made and still relatively wet ground. Indeed, such a wooden or laminate blade, in the absence of the metal profile, can only be placed on a perfectly dry floor or support. This induces strict compliance with the drying times of said floor and can considerably lengthen the time taken to produce the coating, in particular in the case of a floor comprising a screed relatively loaded with water such as a screed produced on a heated floor of the type electric radiant floor or other hydraulic floor (such a screed requires a drying time varying from 1 to 8 months depending on the ambient humidity). The presence of the metal profile supporting and protecting the decorative strip allows the installation of the framing modules on a still relatively wet floor, and therefore makes it possible to considerably reduce the time taken to produce the floor covering.

 The profiles used typically have an external width of 12.8 cm. They preferably include vertical lateral wings 5 (see FIG. 2) 0.15 cm wide, defining a housing 59 for receiving a decorative blade 6 12.5 cm wide, made of wood, laminate, metal. .. The vertical lateral wings 5, which are flush with the surface of the decorative strip 6 (surface of the finished floor, which is also at the same level as the upper faces of the slabs 7), advantageously protect the upper edges of the decorative strip 6. As a variant, the metal profiles consist of a single base for supporting the decorative blades. The length of the strips 3 and 4 is at least substantially equal to the dimension of the slab 7, in the example 50 cm, which is the standard dimension of the known square slabs.

The length of the strip 2 is at least substantially equal to 125.6 cm. Long metal profiles, typically of the order of 7 m, are machined (extruded) and then cut in the factory to the above-mentioned lengths; the rails thus obtained are welded to form framing modules. In the same way, laminate or long wooden planks are respectively manufactured or cut, then cut to the desired lengths and glued to the aluminum rails. Alternatively, the large blades and profiles

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 length are assembled before cutting. Each framing module is delivered finished, ready to be placed on the ground. The laying of the floor covering according to the invention does not require any bonding operation of elements together, so that the total laying time is reduced by the usual bonding and drying times of known bonded coverings. Such a framing module has a lower total weight than that of a solid wood or entirely metal module, for equivalent mechanical strength and service life.

 FIG. 1 also illustrates another embodiment of the invention, comprising straight framing modules 20,21, 22,23, 221,222. Each of these framing modules includes a single straight strip. The modules 21, 22, 221, 222 have a length substantially equal to 50 cm (dimension of the slab), and a width of the order of 12.8 cm. The modules 20 and 23 have a length at least substantially equal to 125.6 cm, and a width of the order of 12.8 cm. Such modules are particularly easy to package and store.

 FIG. 2 illustrates a cross section of the strip 2 (or of the strips 3 and 4) of the framing module 1 and of a portion of the slab 7 adjacent to the said strip. The metal profile of said strip 2 has two vertical lateral wings 5 (only one of which is illustrated in FIG. 2) and a lower core 14, defining a housing 59 for receiving the blade 6. A blade 13 made of elastic synthetic material and / or phonically and / or thermally insulating, such as a rubber blade, is bonded to the underside of the core 14, in order to absorb the impacts of the profile on the ground which could occur in the absence of said blade insulating when a person is walking on the tape, and thus absorbing the subsequent noise generated, and / or soundproofing from a room located on a lower floor the room in which the floor covering is laid, and / or to thermally isolate the profile and the decorative strip 6, from the ground 43 on which the covering is placed (said raw ground). Note that said insulating strip 13 is advantageously bonded to the profile before cutting it to the desired lengths to produce the framing modules. As a variant, the insulating strip and the profile have complementary dovetail structures for their assembly.

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The total thickness (dimension in the vertical direction) of the strip 2 thus obtained is approximately 15 mm.

 The slab 7 is made up of a chipboard 17 to make up of agglomerates from 4 to 6.5 mm thick, of a decorative plate 16, such as a square of wallpaper or a plate of woven natural or synthetic fibers or glued (sisal, coconut, seagrass, fabric, carpet ...) 0.5 to 3 mm thick, and a plate 15 of tempered glass about 8 mm thick, so that the slab 7 has a thickness of the order of 15 mm, preferably exactly equal to that of the framing modules. The plates are superimposed on each other during the installation of the floor covering, the take-up plate being placed on the ground in the lattice mesh delimited by the adjacent framing modules previously laid. It is not necessary to glue said plates. It is thus easy to deposit a slab with a view to its replacement, if it is damaged or broken, or for an aesthetic purpose (replacement of the only decorative plate 16 or of the entire slab, according to the modes and changing tastes or to harmonize the floor covering with new mural wallpaper or new furniture). It should be noted that it is possible to combine different tiles (finished floor 44 in carpet, glass, terracotta ...) in the same room, and thus create all the atmospheres and all the possible patterns. The only condition for this diversity is to design tiles of the same total thickness, corresponding at least substantially, preferably exactly, to the thickness of the framing modules. The finishing plates being preferably chosen from known standard plates, a limited range of lower make-up plates, of thicknesses predefined as a function of the existing finishing plates, can be proposed.

 FIG. 3 illustrates another embodiment of framing modules and tiles according to the invention. The Ibis framing module, seen in cross section, comprises a metal support profile comprising two vertical lateral wings 5bis and a lower core 18 of cross section advantageously hollowed out in places so as to lighten the profile without affecting its mechanical strength. Core 18 includes housing

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 lower 58 for receiving longitudinal strips 19 of rubber or other slightly elastic and / or insulating material, in particular making it possible to absorb the vertical shocks undergone by the framing module. The illustrated embodiment comprises four insulating strips of ovoid shape in contact with the raw soil 57; all other shapes and distributions of the insulating strips are in accordance with the invention. Likewise, the cross section of the core of the metal profile used to make the framing modules is not limited to that illustrated.

 The tiles 7bis each comprise a bottom plate 56 of rubber having a thickness of the order of 2 mm, a take-up plate 24 in agglomerate of 5 to 10 mm thick, and a carpet plate 23 of 3 to 8 mm d 'thickness, the combination of these three elements to obtain a slab 15 mm thick.

 The floor covering according to the invention can be laid floating or, alternatively, glued. Floating installation is preferred for its speed (no time for bonding the elements, nor drying the glue). It also allows a simple and quick subsequent change of a slab and / or a framing module. The framing modules are laid and assembled successively: a first module is put in, then a second that is assembled to the first, then a third that is assembled to the second and / or the first, and so on so to sift the entire part, without worrying about the relative position of the modules, which is adjusted automatically by their shape and the structure of their assembly means. The modules 1, 8, 10 in double T can be staggered or, as a variant, aligned one opposite the other. Extreme framing modules, located at the edge of the walls of the room to be covered, are optionally cut to the required dimensions by means of a saw, so as to allow each of said modules to be embedded between the wall and the framing modules which are adjacent to it. The tiles are then placed in the peripheral framing (meshes) produced by the framing modules, each framing delimiting an area on the ground for receiving a slab, identical, except for a minimum clearance, to the size of the slab. Extreme slabs, located in

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 edge of the walls of the room, are optionally cut to the dimensions of the floor areas delimited by the extreme framing modules and the adjacent wall. Usual peripheral plinths (or quarter-round strips) are placed on the extreme edges of the slabs and extreme framing modules, and are glued to the adjacent walls.

 According to a first embodiment of the removable assembly means, illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5, the framing module 20 comprises two opposite longitudinal lower housings 69, 68, formed in the metal profile of said module along its lateral edges 52.53. The metal profile being manufactured by extrusion, the housings 68, 69 are designed in the very shape of the profile and extend over the entire length of the framing module. The adjacent framing module 21, arranged perpendicular to the module 20, is preferably made from the same metal profile; it has a lower lateral housing 83 extending longitudinally along its lateral edge 80, and a similar housing 84 along its opposite lateral edge 81. The framing module 20 also has, in the assembly zone 20a modules 20 and 21, two notches 67, 82, cut in its lateral edge 52, and spaced apart by a distance corresponding substantially to the distance separating the two lateral housings 83, 84 from the adjacent module 21 (distance slightly less than the width of the module 21). The removable assembly means of the modules 20 and 21 further comprise two brackets 60, 61, each formed of two flat plates extending in orthogonal planes (these planes are vertical when the square is observed in its assembly position final). The plate (or branch) 62 of the bracket 60 is intended to be fitted vertically in the housing 69 of the framing module 20; the plate (or branch) 63 of said bracket is intended to be fitted vertically into the notch 67 of the module 20 and the housing 83 of the module 21. The plate 62 has a hole 64 for receiving a fixing screw, intended to cooperate with a bore 66 formed in the edge 52 of the module 20; the plate 63 of the bracket has a hole 65 for receiving a fixing screw, intended to cooperate with a hole 85 formed in the edge 80 of the module 21. The bracket 60 associated with the screws

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 of above-mentioned fixing allows a rigid connection to be made between the modules 20 and 21, on a first side of the longitudinal end 2 1a of the module 21. The bracket 61 is identical to that previously described and allows a similar connection to be made between the modules 20 and 21 on the other side of the longitudinal end 2a of the module 21. The module 20 has three other pairs of notches cut in its lateral edges 52, 53 in the assembly zones 20b, 20c, 20d , to allow its fixing, by means of brackets, to the framing modules 22, 222, 221.

 The module 20 is also assembled, at its longitudinal end 54, at the longitudinal end 55 of the adjacent identical module 23. To this end, it has a first lateral bore 77 formed in its lateral edge 52 near the longitudinal end 54, and a second bore formed in its lateral edge 53 in alignment with the first bore. The bore 77 thus opens onto the housing 69; the opposite bore (not referenced) leads to the housing 68. The module 23, manufactured from the same metal profile, similarly comprises two longitudinal lower housings 79,86 along its lateral edges 71,72. It has, near its longitudinal end 55, a first bore 78 formed in the lateral edge 71 and opening onto the housing 79, and a second bore (not referenced) formed in the lateral edge 72 and opening onto the housing 86. The means for assembling the modules 20 and 23 further comprise a first plate 73 interposed between the two modules, partly embedded in the housing 69 of the module 20, and partly in the housing 79 of the module 23, and a second plate 74 partly embedded in the housing 68 of the module 20, and partly in the housing 86 of the module 23. The plate 73 comprises two holes 75, 76 intended to cooperate respectively with the holes 77 and 78 to receive a fixing screw; the plate 74 likewise comprises two holes intended to cooperate respectively with the holes (not referenced) passing through the lateral edges 53 and 72.

 The module 20 is therefore associated with two plates 73, 74 for its attachment to the module 23 by its longitudinal end 54, two plates identical to its other longitudinal end, and eight brackets 60, 61 for its

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 fixing to modules 21,22, 221,222. To remove such a module, simply remove the tiles which are adjacent to it (six tiles in total), unscrew the twelve fixing screws crossing its two lateral edges (the screws are accessible horizontally from the space initially occupied by the tiles removed), then lift the said framing module. The framing module 22 is associated with four brackets. To remove such a module, simply remove the two slabs which are adjacent to it, unscrew the four fixing screws crossing its two lateral edges (the screws are accessible horizontally from the location of the slabs removed), then lift said module framing.

 A second embodiment of the removable assembly means according to the invention is illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7. For its attachment to a perpendicular straight framing module 101, the straight framing module 100 comprises two lateral wings 115,116 , extending horizontally beyond its lateral edge 103, at a distance from the ground (that is to say from the lower surface of the module in contact with the ground). Each wing 116, 115 thus defines a lower housing 116a, 115a. It should be noted that these wings form an integral part of the metal profile of the module 100. The extruded metal profile, used to make said module, initially comprises, in the extension of the lateral edge 103, a single wing extending over the entire length of the profile. This wing is then cut at various points corresponding to the future assembly zones of each of the modules produced from the profile, in particular to form the wings 115 and 116 of the module 100 shown. The module 101, preferably made from the same metal profile, has two lateral lateral wings 104, 105. The assembly means of the module 100 and of the module 101 further comprise two brackets 106, 113, each formed of two flat plates extending in the same plane. The plate (or branch) 107 of the flat bracket 106 is intended to be fitted under the lateral wing 116 of the framing module 100; the plate (or branch) 108 of said bracket is intended to be fitted under the lateral wing 105 of the adjacent framing module 101. The longitudinal ends 128, 129 of the lateral wings 116, 105 are cut at an angle,

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 450, so as to be able to abut one against the other when the modules are assembled. The plate 107 of the flat bracket 106 has a vertical hole 109 for receiving a fixing screw, intended to cooperate with a vertical hole 112 formed in the wing 116 of the module 100; the plate 108 of said bracket has a vertical hole 110 for receiving a fixing screw, intended to cooperate with a vertical hole 111 formed in the wing 105 of the module 101. The flat bracket 106, associated with the two fixing screws above, allows to impose the relative orientation of the two modules 100, 101, and to rigidly link them to each other on a first side of the longitudinal end of the module 101. The bracket 113 provides a connection similar on the other side of the longitudinal end of said module 101.

 The framing module 100 is also connected, by one of its longitudinal ends, to a module 130 having two opposite horizontal lateral wings 124, 125. The framing module 100 has two similar wings 127,126, located in the extension, respectively, of the wings 116,123. The means for assembling the modules 100 and 130 further comprise a first plate 119 interposed between the two modules, partly embedded under the wing 127 of the module 100, and partly under the wing 124 of the module 130, and a second plate 120 embedded partly under the wing 126 of the module 100, and partly under the wing 125 of the module 130. The plate 119 comprises two holes 121,122 intended to cooperate, respectively, with holes 117,118 passing vertically through the wings 127,124 , to receive a fixing screw; the plate 120 likewise comprises two holes intended to cooperate respectively with two holes (not referenced) passing through the lateral wings 126,125. The plates 119, 120 and associated screws produce two rigid connections of the modules 100 and 130, on either side, laterally, of the said modules.

 Take-up tiles, in agglomerate for example, are laid on each of the ground surfaces delimited by the outer edges of the lateral wings of the framing modules. The thickness of these tiles is chosen so that the tiles are flush with the upper horizontal surface of said wings. Larger finishing tiles are

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 then laid on these make-up slabs; they also rest on the lateral wings of the framing modules so as to completely cover them. To deposit such a module, it suffices to deposit the slabs which are adjacent to it (it is possible to remove only the finishing plates from said slabs, etc.), to remove the screws for fixing said module to the plates and flat brackets with which it is associated. (the screws are accessible vertically from the locations of the slabs or finishing plates removed), and lift the module.

 According to a third embodiment of the removable assembly means, illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9, the framing module 1 comprises, at the free longitudinal end 12 of its strip 3, a re-entrant nesting structure 26, formed in particular of lower grooves 31 formed, in the longitudinal direction, in the core 14 of the metal profile of said strip 3 and defining ribs 32. Said ribs 32 are traversed in the transverse direction by a bore 27. The core 14 of the profile metal thus has at its end 12 an alternation, in the transverse direction, of teeth (or ribs) 32 and grooves 31, surmounted by the decorative blade 6, the extreme transverse face 6a (also called longitudinal end) is located in the vertical extension of the end face 32a of the teeth 32, so as to mask the interlocking structure 26.

 The adjacent framing module 8 has a conjugate interlocking structure 25 projecting, in the transverse direction of its strip 46, from the lateral face 45 of said strip (or more precisely of its metal profile 47, on which the structure 25 is welded). The nesting structure 25 has an alternation, in the longitudinal direction of the strip 46, of ribs 30-intended to fit into the grooves 31 of the neighboring module 1-and of grooves 33-intended to receive the ribs 32 of the module 1-. The ribs 30 are pierced by a bore 28 of the same section as the bore 27 of the structure 26. The interlocking of the two conjugate structures can be carried out in the longitudinal direction of the strip 3 of the module 1 (which corresponds to the direction transverse of the strip 46 of the module 8) if the surrounding dimensions allow it, or in the vertical direction: for this purpose, the structure 26 of the strip 1 is presented above and at

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 vertical to the structure 25 of the strip 8. The bores 26 and 27 are produced so that they coincide to form a single horizontal common cylindrical bore when the two interlocking structures are assembled, and the end faces 32a and 6a, respectively of the profile 14 and the decorative blade 6 of the module 1, are in abutment against the face 45 of the profile 47. The said common bore is intended to receive a rod 29, in order to secure the two structures (and therefore the two adjacent modules). A thread is machined in any of the ribs 30 or 32, and the rod used is a screw (or a rod threaded on at least part of its body, for example over a length of the order of the width of the rib 30 threaded). Alternatively, the bores 26 and 27 are smooth and the rod used is a stud or other pin.

 According to a fourth embodiment of the removable assembly means according to the invention, illustrated in FIG. 10, the Ibis module has, at the longitudinal end 12bis of one of its bands, a re-entrant nesting structure 34 comprising a vertical mortise 37 (or vertical bore) formed in a thickness of its metal profile 18, set back, in the longitudinal direction, from the end faces 6a and 18a respectively of the decorative strip and the metal profile of said strip. The mortise is intended to receive a tenon 36 of an interlocking structure 35 projecting in a transverse direction from the strip 46bis of the adjacent frame module 8bis (projecting structure). The pin 36 is formed at a distance from the lateral face 45bis of said strip 46bis adapted so that the end faces 6a and 18a of the Ibis module are in abutment against said face 45bis when the interlocking structures are interlocked. As a variant, the tenon is formed at a distance from the lateral face 45a adapted so that there is a clearance between the faces 6a, 18a and 45a facilitating the interlocking of the structures 34 and 35, said clearance being chosen minimal and preferably less at 0.5 mm. The mortise 37 is preferably provided with shoulders 39 on which are intended to rest on the conjugate shoulders 38 of the stud 36. The shoulders 38 and 39 prohibit any relative vertical movement of the interlocking structures, once these have been embedded. 'one in the other. The interlocking of structures 34 and 35 takes place vertically, presenting the end 12bis of the Ibis module above

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 above and facing the nesting structure 35 of the module 8bis, and by embedding the tenon 36 in the mortise 37. Given the shape of the tenon 36 and mortise 37 defining a head 61 of the tenon and a head 60 conjugate of the mortise , the person installing the floor covering must exert a certain pressure on the 12bis end of the Ibis module to allow nesting, by tapping on said end using his foot or any suitable object (small mass for example). It is moreover preferable that at least one of the interlocking structures, preferably the pin 36, is designed in a slightly flexible and elastic material to facilitate the interlocking of the structures and guarantee the effectiveness of the locking means (shoulders 38 and 39).

Note that aluminum interlocking structures (in the case of aluminum profiles 18 and 47bis) are in accordance with the invention. It should be noted that such a framing module can be removed without the need to deposit an adjacent slab.

modules adjacents (il est inutile de manipuler lesdits modules adjacents), après i avoir préalablement, le cas échéant, déposer les dalles adjacentes et retirer les tiges de blocage desdites structures d'emboîtement. Pour déposer un module d'encadrement ne comportant que des structures saillantes, il convient de déposer préalablement les modules (à structures d'emboîtement rentrantes) qui lui sont adjacents. In these embodiments with interlocking structures, each framing module preferably comprises only interlocking structures of the same type, that is to say either protruding (and / or tenon), or re-entrant (and / or mortise). To deposit a framing module comprising only re-entrant structures, it suffices to lift said module in order to decouple its interlocking structures from the conjugate structures of

adjacent modules (there is no need to manipulate said adjacent modules), after having previously, if necessary, deposit the adjacent slabs and remove the locking rods from said interlocking structures. To deposit a framing module comprising only projecting structures, the modules (with re-entrant interlocking structures) which are adjacent to it must be previously deposited.

 The floor covering according to the invention can be laid on any floor: concrete floor, screed, wooden floor, etc. The floor does not have to be perfectly smooth. A floor with roughness or unevenness can be covered with the coating according to the invention, provided that the height under a rule of 2m does not exceed 5 mm.

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 FIG. 11 illustrates another embodiment of the invention comprising framing modules 40 with four bands forming a peripheral frame of a slab 41. Such modules are each associated with at least four assembly elements (not shown ) for their connection to four adjacent modules. Each decorative blade has a tab at each of its ends for its junction with the neighboring orthogonal blade. Alternatively, it has straight ends.

 It goes without saying that the invention can be the subject of numerous variants with respect to the embodiments previously described and represented in the figures.

 In particular, the framing modules can have another shape than those described and illustrated, since this shape and / or the assembly means make it possible to position them relative to each other in a simple and systematic manner, without having , in particular, to measure a distance or a relative angle, and to constitute a rigid lattice for receiving the slabs.

 Furthermore, the slabs can be of any geometric shape, and in particular polygonal. In the case of hexagonal tiles, each framing module comprises, for example, five strips, four of which are of the same length, two strips of the same length being fixed to each longitudinal end of the fifth strip so as to form angles of 120 between them and with said fifth strip. Alternatively, octagonal tiles can be combined with square tiles to form a covering according to the invention.

The corresponding framing modules are, for example, formed of 2 symmetrical portions defining, relative to one another, on one of their lateral faces, a right angle corresponding to the top of a square slab, and defining each, on their other lateral face, two angles corresponding to two consecutive vertices of an octagonal slab. One can also consider a floor covering with round slabs, etc. It should be noted however that such coverings have a higher cost price than those with square or rectangular slabs, since they require, for the manufacture of a module

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 frame, a higher number of cutting and / or welding operations for profiles and decorative blades.

Claims (34)

1 / -Modular floor covering comprising slabs (7) and at least one series of identical and rigid slab frame modules (1,8) at least in one plane, the framing modules of the series (s) being complementary so that they can be placed in relation to each other to form an apparent framing lattice of said slabs (7) having meshes of dimensions at least substantially identical to those of slabs, characterized in that it comprises means for removable assembly of the framing modules together, adapted to impose a relative orientation of said modules and to link them rigidly in at least one plane.  2 / -covering according to claim 1, characterized in that the removable assembly means are adapted to allow to deposit any of the framing modules by manipulation of said framing module and only (e) s modules and / or slabs adjacent to it.  3 / - coating according to claim 2, characterized in that the removable assembly means are adapted to allow coupling and / or dissociation of two adjacent framing modules by simple relative movement of said modules in a vertical direction.  4 / -covering according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the framing modules (20,23) of at least one series have a general shape of straight strip.  5 / -covering according to claim 4 comprising square or rectangular tiles, characterized in that it comprises a first series of identical modules (21,22) having a general shape of straight strip of any width and length at least substantially equal to a first side of the slabs, and a second series of identical modules (20,23) having a general shape of a straight strip of length at least substantially equal to the sum of the other side of the slabs and the width of a module from the first series, or double that amount.  6 / -covering according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the framing modules of at least one series have <Desc / Clms Page number 31>  a general shape of a non-straight strip adapted to define at least an angle characteristic of a mesh of the trellis or a curved portion characteristic of a mesh of the trellis.  7 / -covering according to claim 6, characterized in that it comprises slabs (7) having the shape of a polygon, and in that the framing modules (1,8) of at least one series have a shape suitable for framing at least one polygon vertex of a slab.  8 / - covering according to claim 7, comprising square (7) or rectangular tiles, characterized in that the framing modules (1) of at least one series each comprise at least two orthogonal straight bands (2,3) .  9 / -covering according to claim 8, characterized in that the framing modules of at least one series each comprise a first straight strip of any width and length at least substantially equal to a first side of the tiles, and a second orthogonal straight strip of length at least substantially equal to the sum of the other side of said slabs and the width of the first strip, the first strip being fixed, by a longitudinal end, at the center of a lateral face of the second strip .  10 / -covering according to claim 8, characterized in that the framing modules (1) of at least one series each comprise two first bands (3,4) straight parallel opposite, of any width and the same length at less substantially equal to one side of the slabs (7), each fixed orthogonally, by a longitudinal end (3a, 4a), on a lateral face of a third straight strip (2), opposite two sections of this third strip delimiting two end portions of the same length and a central portion of said third strip, the central portion having a length at least substantially equal to twice the length of an end portion, said third strip (2) having a total length at least substantially equal the sum of the cumulative widths of the first and second strips and double the other side of said slabs. <Desc / Clms Page number 32>  11 / - Coating according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that it comprises a single series of identical and complementary framing modules (1, 8).  12 / -covering according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the removable assembly means of two adjacent framing modules, assembled together at at least one point, said assembly point, comprise at least a rigid element (60,106) formed of two portions (62,63, 107,108), said branches, one (62,107) of said branches being intended to be fitted under one (20,100), first, of the modules frame, in a corresponding lower housing (69,116a) of said first module extending from the assembly point, the other (63,108) of said branches being intended to be fitted under the other (21,101), second, framing modules, in a corresponding lower housing (83) of said second module extending from the assembly point.  13 / -covering according to claim 12 and according to one of claims 4 or 6, characterized in that each lower housing (69,116a) for receiving a branch of the connecting element extends mainly in a direction longitudinal of the strip (20,100).  14 / -covering according to one of claims 12 or 13, characterized in that the element (s) for assembling two straight orthogonal bands of two adjacent framing modules (20,21) is (are) each consisting of a square (60).  15 / -covering according to one of claims 12 or 13, characterized in that the element (s) for assembling two straight strips aligned with two adjacent framing modules (20,23) is (are) each consisting of a flat plate (73).  16 / -covering according to one of claims 12 to 15, characterized in that the assembly means comprise locking means, such as two fixing screws each passing through a side edge of a framing module and a branch of the assembly element, capable of preventing relative movement of the framing modules and of the assembly element. <Desc / Clms Page number 33>  17 / -covering according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the removable assembly means of each framing module comprises at least one interlocking structure (26) intended to come to fit, according to a vertical direction, in a conjugate interlocking structure (25) of an adjacent framing module.  18 / -covering according to claim 17, characterized in that the interlocking structures (25,26) combined are adapted to define, when they are fitted, a common horizontal bore (27,28) intended to receive a rod ( 29) in order to prohibit their relative displacement.  19 / -covering according to claim 17, characterized in that the nesting structure (35) of a framing module (8bis) comprises a vertical pin (36) intended to come to fit in a vertical mortise (37 ) combined with the nesting structure (34) combined with the adjacent framing module (Ibis).  20 / -covering according to claim 19, characterized in that the post (36) is in a material which can be deformed elastically and has at least one horizontal shoulder (38) defining a head (61) of the post intended to come s 'forcing into a conjugate head (60) of the mortise (37) in order to prohibit the relative vertical displacement of the conjugate interlocking structures (34,35).  21 / -covering according to one of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that the framing modules (1) comprise one or more metal sections (14,5) each having an upper housing (59) for receiving a decorative blade (6).  22 / -covering according to claim 21, characterized in that each metal profile (18) incorporates means (19) lower elastic damping defining a bearing surface of the framing module (lbis) on a floor (57) .  23 / - coating according to claim 22, characterized in that each metal profile (18) comprises at least one lower housing for receiving a strip (19) of synthetic material of the rubber or injected foam type projecting from the profile (18) in the vertical direction. <Desc / Clms Page number 34>  24 / -covering according to one of claims 1 to 23, characterized in that each slab (7) is formed of a plurality of superimposed elementary plates, including at least one lower catching plate (17) and an upper plate ( 16.15) finishing.  25 / - coating according to claim 24, characterized in that each lower take-up plate is chosen from an agglomerated plate, rubber, cardboard, rigid foam.  26 / -covering according to one of claims 24 or 25, characterized in that each upper finishing plate is chosen from a terracotta tile, a ceramic tile, a stone slab, a plate of synthetic fibers such as a carpet plate, a plate of synthetic material of the PVC type, a natural fiber plate of the so-called sisal or coconut or seagrass type, a solid wood or laminate plate, an aluminum plate, a tempered glass slab, a combination of a tempered glass slab and a decorative intermediate plate chosen from a piece of fabric, a piece of wallpaper, a plate made of natural fibers of the type known as sisal or coconut or seagrass, a plate made of synthetic fibers carpet type, etc.  27 / -covering according to one of claims 1 to 26, characterized in that it comprises square tiles (7) having a width at least substantially equal to 50 cm.  28 / -covering according to one of claims 1 to 27, characterized in that the framing modules (1) comprise one or more bands (2,3, 4) each having a width in a transverse direction at least substantially constant and between 1 cm and 25 cm, preferably between 5 cm and 15 cm.  29 / -covering according to one of claims 1 to 28, characterized in that each slab (7) and each framing module (1) have a thickness in the vertical direction at least substantially constant and equal to 15 mm.  30 / -Process of laying a coating according to one of claims 1 to 28, characterized in that one juxtaposes and assembles together framing modules (1,8, 9) complementary so as to achieve a <Desc / Clms Page number 35>  rigid lattice of apparent framing of slabs defining a plurality of meshes for receiving said slabs, and a slab (7) is placed in each mesh thus defined.  31 / -A method according to claim 30, characterized in that there is at least one rigid element (60) for assembly between each module (20) and an adjacent framing module (21), by inserting a first branch (62) of said element in a corresponding lower housing (69) of one of the framing modules and a second branch (63) of the assembly element in a corresponding lower housing (83) of the other module d 'framing.  32 / -A method according to claim 31, characterized in that each of the two adjacent framing modules (20,21) is fixed to each assembly element (60,61) by means of fixing screws.  33 / -A method according to claim 30, characterized in that each framing module (1) is assembled to at least one adjacent framing module (8,55), by vertical fitting of their structure (s) ( s) interlocking (26,25) conjugate (s) and, if necessary, installation of the locking means (29).  34 / -Process according to one of claims 30 to 33, characterized in that one cuts at least one end of at least one framing module intended to be placed at the edge of a wall, the dimensions of each cut framing module being adapted to allow a clearance between the framing module and said wall of the order of 1 to 5 mm, and in that one has on the end of the framing module, above said set, a plinth or a strip called a quarter-round which is glued to said wall.