US20100083603A1 - Flooring panel with first and second decorative surfaces - Google Patents
Flooring panel with first and second decorative surfaces Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20100083603A1 US20100083603A1 US12/587,422 US58742209A US2010083603A1 US 20100083603 A1 US20100083603 A1 US 20100083603A1 US 58742209 A US58742209 A US 58742209A US 2010083603 A1 US2010083603 A1 US 2010083603A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- flooring
- panel
- decorative
- locking member
- mating
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 238000009408 flooring Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 310
- 230000013011 mating Effects 0.000 claims description 111
- 238000007373 indentation Methods 0.000 claims description 68
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 claims description 24
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 claims description 24
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 22
- 230000002441 reversible effect Effects 0.000 claims description 13
- 239000011094 fiberboard Substances 0.000 claims description 10
- -1 polyethylene Polymers 0.000 description 9
- 239000004698 Polyethylene Substances 0.000 description 6
- 229920000573 polyethylene Polymers 0.000 description 6
- 239000004677 Nylon Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000004743 Polypropylene Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000001746 injection moulding Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000000465 moulding Methods 0.000 description 3
- 229920001778 nylon Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 239000002861 polymer material Substances 0.000 description 3
- 229920001155 polypropylene Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 239000002023 wood Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000004820 Pressure-sensitive adhesive Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000004005 microsphere Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
- E04F15/00—Flooring
- E04F15/02—Flooring or floor layers composed of a number of similar elements
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16B—DEVICES FOR FASTENING OR SECURING CONSTRUCTIONAL ELEMENTS OR MACHINE PARTS TOGETHER, e.g. NAILS, BOLTS, CIRCLIPS, CLAMPS, CLIPS OR WEDGES; JOINTS OR JOINTING
- F16B5/00—Joining sheets or plates, e.g. panels, to one another or to strips or bars parallel to them
- F16B5/0004—Joining sheets, plates or panels in abutting relationship
- F16B5/0008—Joining sheets, plates or panels in abutting relationship by moving the sheets, plates or panels substantially in their own plane, perpendicular to the abutting edge
- F16B5/0012—Joining sheets, plates or panels in abutting relationship by moving the sheets, plates or panels substantially in their own plane, perpendicular to the abutting edge a tongue on the edge of one sheet, plate or panel co-operating with a groove in the edge of another sheet, plate or panel
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16B—DEVICES FOR FASTENING OR SECURING CONSTRUCTIONAL ELEMENTS OR MACHINE PARTS TOGETHER, e.g. NAILS, BOLTS, CIRCLIPS, CLAMPS, CLIPS OR WEDGES; JOINTS OR JOINTING
- F16B5/00—Joining sheets or plates, e.g. panels, to one another or to strips or bars parallel to them
- F16B5/0004—Joining sheets, plates or panels in abutting relationship
- F16B5/0008—Joining sheets, plates or panels in abutting relationship by moving the sheets, plates or panels substantially in their own plane, perpendicular to the abutting edge
- F16B5/002—Joining sheets, plates or panels in abutting relationship by moving the sheets, plates or panels substantially in their own plane, perpendicular to the abutting edge both sheets, plates or panels having a groove, e.g. with strip-type connector
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16B—DEVICES FOR FASTENING OR SECURING CONSTRUCTIONAL ELEMENTS OR MACHINE PARTS TOGETHER, e.g. NAILS, BOLTS, CIRCLIPS, CLAMPS, CLIPS OR WEDGES; JOINTS OR JOINTING
- F16B5/00—Joining sheets or plates, e.g. panels, to one another or to strips or bars parallel to them
- F16B5/0004—Joining sheets, plates or panels in abutting relationship
- F16B5/0056—Joining sheets, plates or panels in abutting relationship by moving the sheets, plates or panels or the interlocking key perpendicular to the main plane
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
- E04F2201/00—Joining sheets or plates or panels
- E04F2201/01—Joining sheets, plates or panels with edges in abutting relationship
- E04F2201/0107—Joining sheets, plates or panels with edges in abutting relationship by moving the sheets, plates or panels substantially in their own plane, perpendicular to the abutting edges
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
- E04F2201/00—Joining sheets or plates or panels
- E04F2201/01—Joining sheets, plates or panels with edges in abutting relationship
- E04F2201/0107—Joining sheets, plates or panels with edges in abutting relationship by moving the sheets, plates or panels substantially in their own plane, perpendicular to the abutting edges
- E04F2201/0115—Joining sheets, plates or panels with edges in abutting relationship by moving the sheets, plates or panels substantially in their own plane, perpendicular to the abutting edges with snap action of the edge connectors
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
- E04F2201/00—Joining sheets or plates or panels
- E04F2201/01—Joining sheets, plates or panels with edges in abutting relationship
- E04F2201/0138—Joining sheets, plates or panels with edges in abutting relationship by moving the sheets, plates or panels perpendicular to the main plane
- E04F2201/0146—Joining sheets, plates or panels with edges in abutting relationship by moving the sheets, plates or panels perpendicular to the main plane with snap action of the edge connectors
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
- E04F2201/00—Joining sheets or plates or panels
- E04F2201/02—Non-undercut connections, e.g. tongue and groove connections
- E04F2201/023—Non-undercut connections, e.g. tongue and groove connections with a continuous tongue or groove
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
- E04F2201/00—Joining sheets or plates or panels
- E04F2201/05—Separate connectors or inserts, e.g. pegs, pins, keys or strips
- E04F2201/0523—Separate tongues; Interlocking keys, e.g. joining mouldings of circular, square or rectangular shape
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
- E04F2201/00—Joining sheets or plates or panels
- E04F2201/08—Joining sheets or plates or panels hook and loop-type fastener or similar fixing means
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16B—DEVICES FOR FASTENING OR SECURING CONSTRUCTIONAL ELEMENTS OR MACHINE PARTS TOGETHER, e.g. NAILS, BOLTS, CIRCLIPS, CLAMPS, CLIPS OR WEDGES; JOINTS OR JOINTING
- F16B11/00—Connecting constructional elements or machine parts by sticking or pressing them together, e.g. cold pressure welding
- F16B11/006—Connecting constructional elements or machine parts by sticking or pressing them together, e.g. cold pressure welding by gluing
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16B—DEVICES FOR FASTENING OR SECURING CONSTRUCTIONAL ELEMENTS OR MACHINE PARTS TOGETHER, e.g. NAILS, BOLTS, CIRCLIPS, CLAMPS, CLIPS OR WEDGES; JOINTS OR JOINTING
- F16B2200/00—Constructional details of connections not covered for in other groups of this subclass
- F16B2200/81—Use of a material of the hooks-and-loops type
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a flooring panel for a flooring system wherein the flooring panel has a core provided with at least a portion of a locking member, and the core is interposed between opposing first and second decorative surfaces.
- Flooring panels such as laminate flooring panels, include a core and a top decorative surface with a visible design. Each of the flooring panels therefore has only a single visible design. Since most flooring applications require a large number of flooring panels, it is therefore necessary for manufacturers, distributors and sellers to inventory a large number of flooring panels for each type of visible design. Additionally, it is difficult to mix multiple visible designs in a single flooring application, because separate flooring panels, which may or may not be compatible for installation, need to be purchased.
- each of the decorative surfaces has a different visible design so that the amount of inventory can be reduced for each type of visible design. It is further desirable to develop a flooring panel with more than one decorative surface wherein each of the decorative surfaces has a different visible design so that multiple visible designs can easily be mixed to achieve a desired floor design. It is still further desirable to develop a locking member for the aforementioned flooring panel so that the flooring panel can easily be installed with either decorative surface being visible.
- the invention relates to a flooring panel for a flooring system comprising a core interposed between a first decorative surface and a second decorative surface.
- the core has opposing first and second side surfaces extending substantially perpendicular to the first and second decorative surfaces.
- the first and second decorative surfaces have different visible designs, and at least the first side surface is provided with at least a portion of a locking member.
- the invention further relates to a flooring system comprising at least a first and second flooring panel.
- the first and second flooring panels each have a core interposed between a first decorative surface and a second decorative surface.
- the core has opposing first and second side surfaces extending substantially perpendicular to the first and second decorative surfaces.
- the first side surface of the first flooring panel is positioned adjacent to the second side surface of the second flooring panel.
- the first and second decorative surfaces have different visible designs.
- a locking member extends between the first side surface of the first flooring panel and the second side surface of the second flooring panel and locks the first flooring panel to the second flooring panel.
- FIG. 1 is a partial cross sectional view of a first example of a flooring system including flooring panels according to a first embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 2 is partial cross sectional view of a second example of a flooring system including the flooring panels according to the first embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 3 is a cross sectional view of a first alternate embodiment of a locking member of the flooring panels according to the first embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view of a second alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the first embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 5 is a cross sectional view of a third alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the first embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 6 is a cross sectional view of a fourth alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the first embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view of a fifth alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the first embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 8 is a cross sectional view of a sixth alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the first embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 9 is a cross sectional view of a seventh alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the first embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 10 is a cross sectional view of the seventh alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the first embodiment of the invention shown in a mated position.
- FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a flexible securing member of the seventh alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the first embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 12 is a cross sectional view of an eighth alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the first embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 13 is a cross sectional view of the eighth alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the first embodiment of the invention shown in a mated position.
- FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a flexible securing member of the eighth alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the first embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 15 is a partial cross sectional view of a flooring system including flooring panels according to a second embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 16 is a cross sectional view of a first alternate embodiment of a locking member of the flooring panels according to the second embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 17 is a cross sectional view of a second alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the second embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 18 is a cross sectional view of a third alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the second embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 19 is a cross sectional view of a fourth alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the second embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 20 is a cross sectional view of a fifth alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the second embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 21 is a cross sectional view of a sixth alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the second embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 22 is a cross sectional view of a seventh alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the second embodiment of the invention shown in a partially mated position.
- FIG. 23 is a cross sectional view of the seventh alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the second embodiment of the invention shown in a mated position.
- FIG. 24 is a cross sectional view of an eighth alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the second embodiment of the invention shown in a partially mated position.
- FIG. 25 is a cross sectional view of the eighth alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the second embodiment of the invention shown in a mated position.
- FIG. 26 is a partial cross sectional view of a flooring system including flooring panels according to a third embodiment of the invention shown in a pre-mated position.
- FIG. 27 is a cross sectional view of the flooring panels according to the third embodiment of the invention shown in a partially-mated position.
- FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view of the flooring panels according to the third embodiment of the invention shown in a mated position.
- FIG. 1 shows a flooring system 1 including first and second flooring panels 2 , 3 according to a first embodiment of the invention.
- the flooring system 1 consists of at least two of the first and second flooring panels 2 , 3 mounted on a sub-floor 4 .
- the first and second flooring panels 2 , 3 are identical and each consists of a core 5 , a first decorative surface 6 , a second decorative surface 7 , and a locking member 10 .
- the core 5 is interposed between the first and second decorative surfaces 6 , 7 .
- the core 5 may be, for example, a wood laminate core consisting of one or more layers of high density fiberboard or medium density fiberboard.
- the core 5 has opposing first and second side surfaces 8 , 9 that extend substantially perpendicular to the first and second decorative surfaces 6 , 7 .
- the first decorative surface 6 opposes the second decorative surface 7 and extends substantially parallel thereto.
- the first and second decorative surfaces 6 , 7 may consist, for example, of a printed and impregnated cellulosic layer having a desired visible design.
- the visible design of the first decorative surface 6 is different from the visible design of the second decorative surface 7 . It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, however, that the visible design of the first decorative surface 6 and the visible design of the second decorative surface 7 may be the same.
- Each of the first and second flooring panels 2 , 3 are symmetrical about a central axis 15 extending substantially parallel to the first and second decorative surfaces 6 , 7 and substantially perpendicular to the first and second side surfaces 8 , 9 .
- the flooring panels 1 , 2 can be of various shape, for example, rectangular, square, or any other shape.
- the locking member 10 is formed on the first and second side surfaces 8 , 9 of the core 5 .
- the locking member 10 consists of a tongue 11 and a groove 12 .
- the tongue 11 extends from the first side surface 8 of the core 5 substantially from a center thereof.
- the tongue 11 may be materially formed in one piece with the core 5 .
- the tongue 11 has opposing lateral surfaces provided with indentations 13 .
- the tongue 11 has a mating surface 16 extending substantially perpendicular to the first and second decorative surfaces 6 , 7 .
- the mating surface 16 may be beveled to facilitate insertion of the tongue 11 into the groove 12 .
- the groove 12 is formed in the second side surface 9 of the core 5 in a substantial center thereof.
- the groove 12 has a size and configuration corresponding to the size and configuration of the tongue 11 .
- the groove 12 has an abutment surface 17 extending substantially perpendicular to the first and second decorative surfaces 6 , 7 .
- the groove 12 has opposing lateral surfaces provided with projections 14 corresponding to the indentations 13 of the tongue 11 .
- the projections 14 may be materially formed in one piece with the core 5 .
- the tongue 11 and the groove 12 are formed such that when the first side surface 8 of the first flooring panel 2 opposes the second side surface 9 of the second flooring panel 3 , the tongue 11 is capable of mating with the groove 12 and locking therewith.
- the tongue 11 is shown and described herein as having the indentations 13 and the groove 12 is shown and described herein as having the projections 14 , it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that alternatively the tongue 11 may be formed to have the projections 14 and the groove 12 may be formed to have the indentations 13 . Further, it is not necessary that the number of the projections 14 and the number of the indentations 13 be the same or be limited to two, the number of the projections 14 and the number of the indentations 13 may be varied to achieve a desired result.
- the first and second flooring panels 2 , 3 are mounted on the sub-floor 4 , the first and second flooring panels 2 , 3 are arranged such that the second decorative surfaces 7 of both of the first and second flooring panels 2 , 3 are arranged adjacent to the sub-floor 4 .
- the first side surface 8 of the first flooring panel 2 opposes the second side surface 9 of the second flooring panel 3 .
- the tongue 11 of the first flooring panel 2 is inserted into the groove 12 of the second flooring panel 3 so that the projections 14 engage with the indentations 13 to lock the first flooring panel 2 to the second flooring panel 3 .
- first and second flooring panels 2 , 3 are prevented from moving in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first and second decorative surfaces 6 , 7 and in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first and second side surfaces 8 , 9 .
- first and second flooring panels 2 , 3 may also be arranged such that the first decorative surfaces 6 of both of the first and second flooring panels 2 , 3 are arranged adjacent to the sub-floor 4 .
- the visible design of the first decorative surface 6 or the visible design of the second decorative surface 7 may be made visible depending on the desired floor design.
- FIG. 2 shows a second example of the flooring system 1 including the first and second flooring panels 2 , 3 according to the first embodiment of the invention.
- the first and second flooring panels 2 , 3 are mounted on the sub-floor 4 , the first and second flooring panels 2 , 3 are arranged such that the first decorative surface 6 of the first flooring panel 2 and the second decorative surface 7 of the second flooring panel 3 are arranged adjacent to the sub-floor 4 .
- the first side surface 8 of the first flooring panel 2 opposes the second side surface 9 of the second flooring panel 3 .
- the tongue 11 of the first flooring panel 2 is inserted into the groove 12 of the second flooring panel 3 so that the projections 14 engage with the indentations 13 to lock the first flooring panel 2 to the second flooring panel 3 .
- the first and second flooring panels 2 , 3 are prevented from moving in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first and second decorative surfaces 6 , 7 and in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first and second side surfaces 8 , 9 .
- the first and second flooring panels 2 , 3 are not only reversible, but also the locking member 10 is configured to be reversible, the visible design of the first decorative surface 6 and the visible design of the second decorative surface 7 may be caused to alternate depending on the desired floor design.
- FIG. 3 shows a first alternate embodiment of the locking member 10 of the first and second flooring panels 2 , 3 according to the first embodiment of the invention.
- the locking member 10 consists of the tongue 11 and the groove 12 .
- the mating surface 16 of the tongue 11 is provided with a hook material 20 .
- the abutment surface 17 of the groove 12 is provided with a loop material 21 .
- the tongue 11 of the first flooring panel 2 is inserted into the groove 12 of the second flooring panel 3 so that the hook material 20 engages with the loop material 21 to lock the first flooring panel 2 to the second flooring panel 3 .
- tongue 11 is shown and described herein as having the hook material 20 and the groove 12 is shown and described herein as having the loop material 21 , it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that alternatively the tongue 11 may be formed to have the loop material 21 and the groove 12 may be formed to have the hook material 20 .
- FIG. 4 shows a second alternate embodiment of the locking member 10 of the first and second flooring panels 2 , 3 according to the first embodiment of the invention.
- the locking member 10 consists of the tongue 11 and the groove 12 .
- the abutment surface 17 of the groove 12 is provided with an adhesive 22 .
- the adhesive 22 may be, for example, a pressure sensitive adhesive or a microsphere encapsulated adhesive.
- the tongue 11 of the first flooring panel 2 is inserted into the groove 12 of the second flooring panel 3 so that the mating surface 16 engages the adhesive 22 to lock the first flooring panel 2 to the second flooring panel 3 .
- the abutment surface 17 of the groove 12 is shown and described herein as being provided with the adhesive 22 , it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that alternatively the mating surface 16 of the tongue 11 may be provided with the adhesive 22 . Additionally, the adhesive 22 may be a two part adhesive wherein a first part of the adhesive is applied to the mating surface 16 and a second part of the adhesive is applied to the abutment surface 17 or vice versa.
- FIG. 5 shows a third alternate embodiment of the locking member 10 of the first and second flooring panels 2 , 3 according to the first embodiment of the invention.
- the locking member 10 consists of the tongue 11 and the groove 12 .
- the opposing lateral surfaces of the tongue 11 and the opposing lateral surfaces of the groove 12 are provided with roughened surfaces at 23 , 24 , respectively.
- the tongue 11 of the first flooring panel 2 is inserted into the groove 12 of the second flooring panel 3 so that the roughened surfaces 23 , 24 engage to frictionally lock the first flooring panel 2 to the second flooring panel 3 .
- FIG. 6 shows a fourth alternate embodiment of the locking member 10 of the first and second flooring panels 2 , 3 according to the first embodiment of the invention.
- the locking member 10 consists of the tongue 11 and the groove 12 .
- the opposing lateral surfaces of the tongue 11 and the groove 12 have corresponding curved profiles 25 , 26 , respectively.
- Each of the curved profiles 25 , 26 is substantially S-shaped.
- the tongue 11 of the first flooring panel 2 is inserted into the groove 12 of the second flooring panel 3 so that the curved profiles 25 of the tongue 11 engage with the curved profiles 26 of the groove 12 to lock the first flooring panel 2 to the second flooring panel 3 .
- FIG. 7 shows a fifth alternate embodiment of the locking member 10 of the first and second flooring panels 2 , 3 according to the first embodiment of the invention.
- the locking member 10 consists of the tongue 11 and the groove 12 .
- the mating surface 16 is provided with an indentation 27 formed in a substantial center thereof.
- the indentation 27 has a substantially rectangular cross-section.
- the abutment surface 17 is provided with a projection 28 extending from a substantial center thereof.
- the projection 28 may be materially formed in one piece with the core 5 .
- the projection 28 is configured substantially in the shape of an arrow in that the projection 28 consists of a shaft with a distal end having opposing inclined surfaces that converge at a central point.
- the tongue 11 of the first flooring panel 2 is inserted into the groove 12 of the second flooring panel 3 so that the projection 28 engages with the indentation 27 to lock the first flooring panel 2 to the second flooring panel 3 .
- the tongue 11 is shown and described herein as having the indentation 27 and the groove 12 is shown and described herein as having the projection 28 , it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that alternatively the tongue 11 may be formed to have the projection 28 and the groove 12 may be formed to have the indentation 27 .
- FIG. 8 shows a sixth alternate embodiment of the locking member 10 of the first and second flooring panels 2 , 3 according to the first embodiment of the invention.
- the locking member 10 consists of the tongue 11 and the groove 12 .
- the mating surface 16 is provided with an indentation 29 formed in a substantial center thereof.
- the indentation 29 has a distal portion having a smaller cross-section than a proximal portion thereof.
- the abutment surface 17 is provided with a projection 30 extending from a substantial center thereof.
- the projection 28 may be materially formed in one piece with the core 5 .
- the projection 30 is configured substantially in the shape of a wedge and has a distal portion having a greater cross-section than a proximal portion thereof.
- the tongue 11 of the first flooring panel 2 is inserted into the groove 12 of the second flooring panel 3 so that the projection 30 engages with the indentation 29 to lock the first flooring panel 2 to the second flooring panel 3 .
- the tongue 11 is shown and described herein as having the indentation 29 and the groove 12 is shown and described herein as having the projection 30 , it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that alternatively the tongue 11 may be formed to have the projection 30 and the groove 12 may be formed to have the indentation 29 .
- FIGS. 9-10 show a seventh alternate embodiment of the locking member 10 of the first and second flooring panels 2 , 3 according to the first embodiment of the invention.
- the locking member 10 consists of the tongue 11 , the groove 12 , and a flexible securing member 33 .
- One of the opposing lateral surfaces of the tongue 11 is provided with an indentation 31 having a substantially rectangular cross section and an inclined bottom surface.
- the opposing lateral surfaces of the groove 12 are provided with securing member receiving indentations 32 corresponding to the indentation 31 of the tongue 11 .
- a flexible securing member 33 is arranged in at least one of the securing member receiving indentations 32 . As shown in FIG.
- the flexible securing member 33 is separate from the first and second flooring panels 2 , 3 and is a substantially elongated strip having an end section with a protrusion 34 .
- the protrusion 34 of the flexible securing member 33 is configured to project from the securing member receiving indentation 32 when the flexible securing member 33 is received in the securing member receiving indentation 32 .
- the flexible securing member 33 may be made, for example, by molding, preferably injection molding, any type of polymer material, such as nylon, polyethylene terphthlate, polyethylene, or polypropylene.
- the tongue 11 of the first flooring panel 2 As shown in FIG. 9 , as the tongue 11 of the first flooring panel 2 is inserted into the groove 12 of the second flooring panel 3 , the tongue 11 engages the protrusion 34 of the flexible securing member 33 and pushes the protrusion 34 into the securing member receiving indentation 32 in one of the opposing lateral surfaces of the groove 12 . As shown in FIG. 10 , when the tongue 11 is fully received in the groove 12 , the protrusion 34 of the flexible securing member 33 is caused to project into the indentation 31 in the tongue 3 to lock the first flooring panel 2 to the second flooring panel 3 .
- FIGS. 12-13 show an eighth alternate embodiment of the locking member 10 of the first and second flooring panels 2 , 3 according to the first embodiment of the invention.
- the locking member 10 consists of the tongue 11 , the groove 12 , and a flexible securing member 37 .
- the opposing lateral surfaces of the tongue 11 are provided with indentations 35 having a substantially rectangular cross section and an inclined bottom surface.
- the opposing lateral surfaces of the groove 12 are provided with securing member receiving indentations 36 corresponding to the indentations 35 of the tongue 11 .
- a flexible securing member 37 is arranged in each of the securing member receiving indentations 36 . As shown in FIG.
- the flexible securing member 37 is separate from the first and second flooring panels 2 , 3 and is a substantially elongated strip having a substantial V-shape and an end section with a protrusion 38 .
- the protrusion 38 of the flexible securing member 37 is configured to project from the securing member receiving indentation 36 when the flexible securing member 37 is received in the securing member receiving indentation 36 .
- the flexible securing member 37 may be made, for example, by molding, preferably injection molding, any type of polymer material, such as nylon, polyethylene terphthlate, polyethylene, or polypropylene.
- the tongue 11 of the first flooring panel 2 As shown in FIG. 12 , as the tongue 11 of the first flooring panel 2 is inserted into the groove 12 of the second flooring panel 3 , the tongue 11 engages the protrusions 38 of the flexible securing members 37 and pushes the protrusions 38 into the securing member receiving indentations 36 in the opposing lateral surfaces of the groove 12 . As shown in FIG. 13 , when the tongue 11 is fully received in the groove 12 , the protrusions 38 of the flexible securing members 37 are caused to project into the indentations 35 in the tongue 3 to lock the first flooring panel 2 to the second flooring panel 3 .
- FIG. 15 shows a flooring system 40 including first and second flooring panels 41 , 42 according to a second embodiment of the invention.
- the flooring system 40 consists of at least two of the first and second flooring panels 41 , 42 mounted on a sub-floor 43 .
- the first and second flooring panels 41 , 42 are identical and each consists of a core 44 , a first decorative surface 45 , a second decorative surface 46 , and a locking member 50 .
- the core 44 is interposed between the first and second decorative surfaces 45 , 46 .
- the core 44 may be, for example, a wood laminate core consisting of one or more layers of high density fiberboard or medium density fiberboard.
- the core 44 has opposing first and second side surfaces 47 , 48 that extend substantially perpendicular to the first and second decorative surfaces 45 , 46 .
- the first decorative surface 45 opposes the second decorative surface 46 and extends substantially parallel thereto.
- the first and second decorative surfaces 45 , 46 may consist, for example, of a printed and impregnated cellulosic layer having a desired visible design.
- the visible design of the first decorative surface 45 is different from the visible design of the second decorative surface 46 . It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, however, that the visible design of the first decorative surface 45 and the visible design of the second decorative surface 46 may be the same.
- the flooring panels 41 , 42 can be of various shape, for example, rectangular, square, or any other shape.
- the locking member 50 is formed on the first and second side surfaces 47 , 48 of the core 44 .
- the locking member 50 consists of a first locking extension 51 and a second locking extension 52 .
- the first locking extension 51 extends from the first side surface 47 of the core 44 on a side proximate the second decorative surface 46 .
- the first locking extension 51 is substantially L-shaped and includes a mating projection 53 and a mating recess 54 .
- the mating projection 53 has a mating surface 55 extending substantially parallel to the first and second decorative surfaces 45 , 46 .
- the mating projection 53 has opposing lateral surfaces provided with indentations 77 .
- the mating recess 54 has an abutment surface 56 extending substantially parallel to the first and second decorative surfaces 45 , 46 .
- the mating recess 54 has opposing lateral surfaces provided with projections 76 .
- the projections 76 may be materially formed in one piece with the first locking extension 51 .
- the first locking extension 51 may
- the second locking extension 52 extends from the second side surface 48 of the core 44 on a side proximate the first decorative surface 45 .
- the second locking extension 52 is substantially L-shaped and includes a mating projection 57 and a mating recess 58 .
- the mating projection 57 has a mating surface 59 extending substantially parallel to the first and second decorative surfaces 45 , 46 .
- the mating projection 57 has opposing lateral surfaces provided with indentations 77 corresponding to the projections 76 of the first locking extension 51 .
- the mating recess 58 has an abutment surface 60 extending substantially parallel to the first and second decorative surfaces 45 , 46 .
- the mating recess 58 has opposing lateral surfaces provided with projections 76 corresponding to the indentations 77 of the first locking extension 51 .
- the projections 76 may be materially formed in one piece with the second locking extension 52 .
- the second locking extension 52 may be materially formed in one piece with the core 44 .
- the second locking extension 52 has a size and configuration corresponding to the size and configuration of the first locking extension 51 .
- the first locking extension 51 and the second locking extension 52 are formed such that when the first side surface 47 of the first flooring panel 41 opposes the second side surface 48 of the second flooring panel 42 , the first locking extension 51 is capable of mating with the second locking extension 52 and locking therewith.
- the first and second flooring panels 41 , 42 are mounted on the sub-floor 43 , the first and second flooring panels 41 , 42 are arranged such that the second decorative surfaces 46 of both of the first and second flooring panels 41 , 42 are arranged adjacent to the sub-floor 43 .
- the first side surface 47 of the first flooring panel 41 opposes the second side surface 48 of the second flooring panel 42 .
- the first locking extension 51 of the first flooring panel 41 is mated with the second locking extension 52 of the second flooring panel 42 so that the projections 76 engage the indentations 77 to lock the first flooring panel 41 to the second flooring panel 42 .
- first and second flooring panels 41 , 42 are prevented from moving in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first and second decorative surfaces 45 , 46 and in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first and second side surfaces 47 , 48 .
- first and second flooring panels 41 , 42 may also be arranged such that the first decorative surfaces 45 of both of the first and second flooring panels 41 , 42 are arranged adjacent to the sub-floor 43 .
- the visible design of the first decorative surface 45 or the visible design of the second decorative surface 46 may be made visible depending on the desired floor design.
- FIG. 16 shows a first alternate embodiment of the locking member 50 of the first and second flooring panels 41 , 42 according to the second embodiment of the invention.
- the locking member 50 consists of the first locking extension 51 and the second locking extension 52 .
- the mating surfaces 55 , 59 of each of the mating projections 53 , 57 of the first and second locking extension 51 , 52 are provided with a loop material 62 .
- the abutment surfaces 56 , 60 of each of the mating recesses 54 , 58 of the first and second locking extension 51 , 52 are provided with a hook material 61 .
- the mating projection 53 of the first flooring panel 41 is inserted into the mating recess 58 of the second flooring panel 42 so that the hook material 61 engages with the loop material 62
- the mating projection 57 of the second flooring panel 42 is inserted into the mating recess 54 of the first flooring panel 41 so that the hook material 61 engages with the loop material 62 to lock the first flooring panel 41 to the second flooring panel 42 .
- mating projections 53 , 57 are shown and described herein as having the loop material 62 and the mating recesses 54 , 58 are shown and described herein as having the hook material 61 , it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that alternatively the mating projections 53 , 57 may be formed to have the hook material 61 and the mating recesses 54 , 58 may be formed to have the loop material 62 or any other combination thereof.
- FIG. 17 shows a second alternate embodiment of the locking member 50 of the first and second flooring panels 41 , 42 according to the second embodiment of the invention.
- the locking member 50 consists of the first locking extension 51 and the second locking extension 52 .
- the abutment surfaces 56 , 60 of the mating recesses 54 , 58 are provided with an adhesive 63 .
- the adhesive 63 may be, for example, a pressure sensitive adhesive or a microsphere encapsulated adhesive.
- the mating projection 53 of the first flooring panel 41 is inserted into the mating recess 58 of the second flooring panel 42 so that the mating surface 55 engages the adhesive 63 and the mating projection 57 of the second flooring panel 42 is inserted into the mating recess 54 of the first flooring panel 41 so that the mating surface 59 engages the adhesive 63 to lock the first flooring panel 41 to the second flooring panel 42 .
- the abutment surfaces 56 , 60 of mating recesses 54 , 58 are shown and described herein as being provided with the adhesive 63 , it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that alternatively the mating surfaces 55 , 59 of the mating projections 53 , 57 may be provided with the adhesive 63 .
- the adhesive 63 may be a two part adhesive wherein a first part of the adhesive is applied to the mating surfaces 55 , 59 and a second part of the adhesive is applied to the abutment surfaces 56 , 60 or vice versa.
- FIG. 18 shows a third alternate embodiment of the locking member 50 of the first and second flooring panels 41 , 42 according to the second embodiment of the invention.
- the locking member 50 consists of the first locking extension 51 and the second locking extension 52 .
- Opposing lateral surfaces of the mating projections 53 , 57 and opposing lateral surfaces of the mating recesses 54 , 58 are provided with roughened surfaces at 64 , 65 , respectively.
- the mating projection 53 of the first flooring panel 41 is inserted into the mating recess 58 of the second flooring panel 42 and the mating projection 57 of the second flooring panel 42 is inserted into the mating recess 54 of the first flooring panel 41 so that the roughened surfaces 64 , 65 engage to frictionally lock the first flooring panel 41 to the second flooring panel 42 .
- FIG. 19 shows a fourth alternate embodiment of the locking member 50 of the first and second flooring panels 41 , 42 according to the second embodiment of the invention.
- the locking member 50 consists of the first locking extension 51 and the second locking extension 52 .
- the opposing lateral surfaces of the mating projections 53 , 57 and the mating recesses 54 , 58 have corresponding curved profiles 66 , 67 , respectively.
- Each of the curved profiles 66 , 67 is substantially S-shaped.
- the mating projection 53 of the first flooring panel 41 is inserted into the mating recess 58 of the second flooring panel 42 and the mating projection 57 of the second flooring panel 42 is inserted into the mating recess 54 of the first flooring panel 41 so that the curved profiles 66 of the mating projections 53 , 57 engage with the curved profiles 67 of the mating recesses 54 , 58 to lock the first flooring panel 41 to the second flooring panel 42 .
- FIG. 20 shows a fifth alternate embodiment of the locking member 50 of the first and second flooring panels 41 , 42 according to the second embodiment of the invention.
- the locking member 50 consists of the first locking extension 51 and the second locking extension 52 .
- the mating surfaces 55 , 59 are provided with an indentation 68 formed in a substantial center thereof.
- the indentation 68 has a substantially rectangular cross-section.
- the abutment surfaces 56 , 60 are provided with a projection 69 extending from a substantial center thereof.
- the projection 69 may be materially formed in one piece with the core 44 .
- the projection 69 is configured substantially in the shape of an arrow in that the projection 69 consists of a shaft with a distal end having opposing inclined surfaces that converge at a central point.
- the mating projection 53 of the first flooring panel 41 is inserted into the mating recess 58 of the second flooring panel 42 and the mating projection 57 of the second flooring panel 42 is inserted into the mating recess 54 of the first flooring panel 41 so that the projections 68 engage with the indentations 68 to lock the first flooring panel 41 to the second flooring panel 42 .
- mating projections 53 , 57 are shown and described herein as having the indentations 68 and the mating recesses 54 , 58 are shown and described herein as having the projection 69 , it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that alternatively the mating recesses 54 , 58 may be formed to have the projections 69 and the mating projections 53 , 57 may be formed to have the indentations 68 or any other combination thereof.
- FIG. 21 shows a sixth alternate embodiment of the locking member 50 of the first and second flooring panels 41 , 42 according to the second embodiment of the invention.
- the locking member 50 consists of the first locking extension 51 and the second locking extension 52 .
- the mating surfaces 55 , 59 are each provided with an indentation 70 formed in a substantial center thereof.
- the indentation 70 has a distal portion having a smaller cross-section than a proximal portion thereof.
- the abutment surfaces 56 , 60 are each provided with a projection 71 extending from a substantial center thereof.
- the projection 71 may be materially formed in one piece with the core 44 .
- the projection 71 is configured substantially in the shape of a wedge and has a distal portion having a greater cross-section than a proximal portion thereof.
- the mating projection 53 of the first flooring panel 41 is inserted into the mating recess 58 of the second flooring panel 42 and the mating projection 57 of the second flooring panel 42 is inserted into the mating recess 54 of the first flooring panel 41 so that the projections 71 engage with the indentations 70 to lock the first flooring panel 41 to the second flooring panel 42 .
- mating projections 53 , 57 are shown and described herein as having the projections 71 and the mating recesses 54 , 58 are shown and described herein as having the indentations 70 , it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that alternatively the mating recesses 54 , 58 may be formed to have the projections 69 and the mating projections 53 , 57 may be formed to have the indentations 68 or any other combination thereof.
- FIGS. 22-23 show a seventh alternate embodiment of the locking member 50 of the first and second flooring panels 41 , 42 according to the second embodiment of the invention.
- the locking member 50 consists of the first locking extension 51 , the second locking extension 52 , and the flexible securing member 33 .
- a distal lateral surface of each of the mating projections 53 , 57 is provided with an indentation 72 having a substantially rectangular cross section and an inclined bottom surface.
- the first side surface 47 of the first flooring panel 41 and the second side surface 48 of the second flooring panel 42 are each provided with securing member receiving indentations 73 corresponding to the indentations 72 of the mating projections 53 , 57 .
- the flexible securing member 33 is arranged in each of the securing member receiving indentations 73 . As shown in FIG. 11 and previously discussed herein, the flexible securing member 33 is a substantially elongated strip having an end section with the protrusion 34 . The protrusion 34 of the flexible securing member 33 is configured to project from the securing member receiving indentation 73 when the flexible securing member 33 is received in the securing member receiving indentation 73 .
- the mating projection 53 of the first flooring panel 41 is inserted into the mating recess 58 of the second flooring panel 42 and the mating projection 57 of the second flooring panel 42 is inserted into the mating recess 54 of the first flooring panel 41 , the mating projections 53 , 57 engage the protrusions 34 of the flexible securing members 33 and push the protrusions 34 into the securing member receiving indentations 73 .
- the mating projections 53 , 57 engage the protrusions 34 of the flexible securing members 33 and push the protrusions 34 into the securing member receiving indentations 73 .
- FIGS. 24-25 show an eighth alternate embodiment of the locking member 50 of the first and second flooring panels 41 , 42 according to the second embodiment of the invention.
- the locking member 50 consists of the first locking extension 51 , the second locking extension 52 , and the flexible securing member 37 .
- a distal lateral surface of each of the mating projections 53 , 57 is provided with an indentation 75 having a substantially rectangular cross section and an inclined bottom surface.
- the first side surface 47 of the first flooring panel 41 and the second side surface 48 of the second flooring panel 42 are each provided with securing member receiving indentations 75 corresponding to the indentations 74 of the mating projections 53 , 57 .
- the flexible securing member 37 is arranged in each of the securing member receiving indentations 75 .
- the flexible securing member 37 is a substantially elongated strip having a substantial V-shape and an end section with a protrusion 38 .
- the protrusion 38 of the flexible securing member 37 is configured to project from the securing member receiving indentation 75 when the flexible securing member 37 is received in the securing member receiving indentation 75 .
- the mating projection 53 of the first flooring panel 41 is inserted into the mating recess 58 of the second flooring panel 42 and the mating projection 57 of the second flooring panel 42 is inserted into the mating recess 54 of the first flooring panel 41 , the mating projections 53 , 57 engage the protrusions 38 of the flexible securing members 37 and push the protrusions 38 into the securing member receiving indentations 75 .
- the mating projections 53 , 57 engage the protrusions 38 of the flexible securing members 37 and push the protrusions 38 into the securing member receiving indentations 75 .
- FIG. 26 shows a flooring system 80 including first and second flooring panels 81 , 82 according to a third embodiment of the invention.
- the flooring system 80 consists of at least two of the first and second flooring panels 81 , 82 mounted on a sub-floor 83 .
- the first and second flooring panels 81 , 82 are identical and each consists of a core 84 , a first decorative surface 85 , a second decorative surface 86 , and a locking member 90 .
- the core 84 is interposed between the first and second decorative surfaces 85 , 86 .
- the core 84 may be, for example, a wood laminate core consisting of one or more layers of high density fiberboard or medium density fiberboard.
- the core 84 has opposing first and second side surfaces 87 , 88 that extend substantially perpendicular to the first and second decorative surfaces 85 , 86 .
- the first decorative surface 85 opposes the second decorative surface 86 and extends substantially parallel thereto.
- the first and second decorative surfaces 85 , 86 may consist, for example, of a printed and impregnated cellulosic layer having a desired visible design.
- the visible design of the first decorative surface 85 is different from the visible design of the second decorative surface 86 . It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, however, that the visible design of the first decorative surface 85 and the visible design of the second decorative surface 86 may be the same.
- Each of the first and second flooring panels 81 , 82 are symmetrical about a central axis 89 extending substantially parallel to the first and second decorative surfaces 85 , 86 and substantially perpendicular to the first and second side surfaces 87 , 88 .
- the flooring panels 81 , 82 can be of various shape, for example, rectangular, square, or any other shape.
- the locking member 90 consists of a pair of opposing grooves 91 , 92 and a flexible securing member 93 .
- the grooves 91 , 92 are formed in the first and second side surfaces 87 , 88 , respectively, in a substantial center thereof.
- the grooves 91 , 92 have a size and configuration corresponding to the size and configuration of the flexible securing member 93 .
- the grooves 91 , 92 have opposing lateral surfaces provided with projections 94 .
- the projections 94 are arranged proximate an opening into the grooves 91 , 92 .
- the projections 94 may be materially formed in one piece with the core 5 .
- the flexible securing member 93 is separate from the first and second flooring panels 81 , 82 and is a substantially elongated strip having a substantially C-shape and end sections with protrusions 95 .
- the flexible securing member 93 may be made, for example, by molding, preferably injection molding, any type of polymer material, such as nylon, polyethylene terphthlate, polyethylene, or polypropylene.
- the first and second flooring panels 81 , 82 are mounted on the sub-floor 83 , the first and second flooring panels 81 , 82 are arranged such that the second decorative surfaces 86 of both of the first and second flooring panels 81 , 82 are arranged adjacent to the sub-floor 83 .
- the first side surface 87 of the first flooring panel 81 opposes the second side surface 88 of the second flooring panel 82 .
- the flexible securing member 93 is inserted into the groove 91 of the first flooring panel 81 until the protrusion 95 rides over the projection 94 and locks behind the projection 94 . As shown in FIG.
- the flexible securing member 93 is inserted into the groove 92 of the second flooring panel 82 until the protrusion 95 rides over the projection 94 and locks behind the projection 94 .
- the protrusions 95 therefore engage with the projections 94 to lock the first flooring panel 81 to the second flooring panel 82 , as shown in FIG. 28 .
- the first and second flooring panels 81 , 82 are prevented from moving in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first and second decorative surfaces 85 , 86 and in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first and second side surfaces 87 , 88 .
- first and second flooring panels 81 , 82 may also be arranged such that the first decorative surfaces 85 of both of the first and second flooring panels 81 , 82 are arranged adjacent to the sub-floor 83 .
- the visible design of the first decorative surface 85 or the visible design of the second decorative surface 86 may be made visible depending on the desired floor design.
- the locking member 10 is configured to be reversible, the visible design of the first decorative surface 85 and the visible design of the second decorative surface 86 may be caused to alternate depending on the desired floor design.
- the locking member is not limited to the locking members 10 , 50 , 80 shown and described herein. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that other locking members may be use to lock or otherwise secure the first flooring panels 2 , 41 , 81 to the second flooring panel 3 , 42 , 82 including but not limited to, other known mechanical locking members that are formed integral with and/or separate from the first and second flooring panels 2 , 3 , 41 , 42 , 81 , 82 or adhesives.
- first and second flooring panels 2 , 3 , 41 , 42 , 81 , 82 are shown and described herein as being identical, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the first and second flooring panels 2 , 3 , 41 , 42 , 81 , 82 may have other configurations and still be capable of locking together and performing the functions shown and described herein. It is, therefore, intended that the foregoing description be regarded as illustrative rather than limiting, and that the scope of the invention is given by the appended claims together with their full range of equivalents.
Abstract
A flooring panel for a flooring system comprises a core interposed between a first decorative surface and a second decorative surface. The core has opposing first and second side surfaces extending substantially perpendicular to the first and second decorative surfaces. The first and second decorative surfaces have different visible designs, and at least the first side surface is provided with at least a portion of a locking member.
Description
- This application claims priority from U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 61/103,642, filed Oct. 8, 2008, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
- The present invention relates to a flooring panel for a flooring system wherein the flooring panel has a core provided with at least a portion of a locking member, and the core is interposed between opposing first and second decorative surfaces.
- Flooring panels, such as laminate flooring panels, include a core and a top decorative surface with a visible design. Each of the flooring panels therefore has only a single visible design. Since most flooring applications require a large number of flooring panels, it is therefore necessary for manufacturers, distributors and sellers to inventory a large number of flooring panels for each type of visible design. Additionally, it is difficult to mix multiple visible designs in a single flooring application, because separate flooring panels, which may or may not be compatible for installation, need to be purchased.
- It is therefore desirable to provide a flooring panel with more than one decorative surface wherein each of the decorative surfaces has a different visible design so that the amount of inventory can be reduced for each type of visible design. It is further desirable to develop a flooring panel with more than one decorative surface wherein each of the decorative surfaces has a different visible design so that multiple visible designs can easily be mixed to achieve a desired floor design. It is still further desirable to develop a locking member for the aforementioned flooring panel so that the flooring panel can easily be installed with either decorative surface being visible.
- The invention relates to a flooring panel for a flooring system comprising a core interposed between a first decorative surface and a second decorative surface. The core has opposing first and second side surfaces extending substantially perpendicular to the first and second decorative surfaces. The first and second decorative surfaces have different visible designs, and at least the first side surface is provided with at least a portion of a locking member.
- The invention further relates to a flooring system comprising at least a first and second flooring panel. The first and second flooring panels each have a core interposed between a first decorative surface and a second decorative surface. The core has opposing first and second side surfaces extending substantially perpendicular to the first and second decorative surfaces. The first side surface of the first flooring panel is positioned adjacent to the second side surface of the second flooring panel. The first and second decorative surfaces have different visible designs. A locking member extends between the first side surface of the first flooring panel and the second side surface of the second flooring panel and locks the first flooring panel to the second flooring panel.
-
FIG. 1 is a partial cross sectional view of a first example of a flooring system including flooring panels according to a first embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 2 is partial cross sectional view of a second example of a flooring system including the flooring panels according to the first embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 3 is a cross sectional view of a first alternate embodiment of a locking member of the flooring panels according to the first embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view of a second alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the first embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 5 is a cross sectional view of a third alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the first embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 6 is a cross sectional view of a fourth alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the first embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view of a fifth alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the first embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 8 is a cross sectional view of a sixth alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the first embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 9 is a cross sectional view of a seventh alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the first embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 10 is a cross sectional view of the seventh alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the first embodiment of the invention shown in a mated position. -
FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a flexible securing member of the seventh alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the first embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 12 is a cross sectional view of an eighth alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the first embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 13 is a cross sectional view of the eighth alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the first embodiment of the invention shown in a mated position. -
FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a flexible securing member of the eighth alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the first embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 15 is a partial cross sectional view of a flooring system including flooring panels according to a second embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 16 is a cross sectional view of a first alternate embodiment of a locking member of the flooring panels according to the second embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 17 is a cross sectional view of a second alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the second embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 18 is a cross sectional view of a third alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the second embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 19 is a cross sectional view of a fourth alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the second embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 20 is a cross sectional view of a fifth alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the second embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 21 is a cross sectional view of a sixth alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the second embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 22 is a cross sectional view of a seventh alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the second embodiment of the invention shown in a partially mated position. -
FIG. 23 is a cross sectional view of the seventh alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the second embodiment of the invention shown in a mated position. -
FIG. 24 is a cross sectional view of an eighth alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the second embodiment of the invention shown in a partially mated position. -
FIG. 25 is a cross sectional view of the eighth alternate embodiment of the locking member of the flooring panels according to the second embodiment of the invention shown in a mated position. -
FIG. 26 is a partial cross sectional view of a flooring system including flooring panels according to a third embodiment of the invention shown in a pre-mated position. -
FIG. 27 is a cross sectional view of the flooring panels according to the third embodiment of the invention shown in a partially-mated position. -
FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view of the flooring panels according to the third embodiment of the invention shown in a mated position. -
FIG. 1 shows aflooring system 1 including first andsecond flooring panels FIG. 1 , theflooring system 1 consists of at least two of the first andsecond flooring panels second flooring panels core 5, a firstdecorative surface 6, a seconddecorative surface 7, and alocking member 10. Thecore 5 is interposed between the first and seconddecorative surfaces core 5 may be, for example, a wood laminate core consisting of one or more layers of high density fiberboard or medium density fiberboard. Thecore 5 has opposing first andsecond side surfaces decorative surfaces decorative surface 6 opposes the seconddecorative surface 7 and extends substantially parallel thereto. The first and seconddecorative surfaces decorative surface 6 is different from the visible design of the seconddecorative surface 7. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, however, that the visible design of the firstdecorative surface 6 and the visible design of the seconddecorative surface 7 may be the same. Each of the first andsecond flooring panels central axis 15 extending substantially parallel to the first and seconddecorative surfaces second side surfaces flooring panels - The locking
member 10 is formed on the first and second side surfaces 8, 9 of thecore 5. The lockingmember 10 consists of atongue 11 and agroove 12. Thetongue 11 extends from thefirst side surface 8 of thecore 5 substantially from a center thereof. Thetongue 11 may be materially formed in one piece with thecore 5. Thetongue 11 has opposing lateral surfaces provided withindentations 13. Thetongue 11 has amating surface 16 extending substantially perpendicular to the first and seconddecorative surfaces mating surface 16 may be beveled to facilitate insertion of thetongue 11 into thegroove 12. Thegroove 12 is formed in thesecond side surface 9 of thecore 5 in a substantial center thereof. Thegroove 12 has a size and configuration corresponding to the size and configuration of thetongue 11. Thegroove 12 has anabutment surface 17 extending substantially perpendicular to the first and seconddecorative surfaces groove 12 has opposing lateral surfaces provided withprojections 14 corresponding to theindentations 13 of thetongue 11. Theprojections 14 may be materially formed in one piece with thecore 5. Thetongue 11 and thegroove 12 are formed such that when thefirst side surface 8 of thefirst flooring panel 2 opposes thesecond side surface 9 of thesecond flooring panel 3, thetongue 11 is capable of mating with thegroove 12 and locking therewith. Although thetongue 11 is shown and described herein as having theindentations 13 and thegroove 12 is shown and described herein as having theprojections 14, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that alternatively thetongue 11 may be formed to have theprojections 14 and thegroove 12 may be formed to have theindentations 13. Further, it is not necessary that the number of theprojections 14 and the number of theindentations 13 be the same or be limited to two, the number of theprojections 14 and the number of theindentations 13 may be varied to achieve a desired result. - As shown in
FIG. 1 , when the first andsecond flooring panels second flooring panels decorative surfaces 7 of both of the first andsecond flooring panels first side surface 8 of thefirst flooring panel 2 opposes thesecond side surface 9 of thesecond flooring panel 3. Thetongue 11 of thefirst flooring panel 2 is inserted into thegroove 12 of thesecond flooring panel 3 so that theprojections 14 engage with theindentations 13 to lock thefirst flooring panel 2 to thesecond flooring panel 3. When thefirst flooring panel 2 is locked to thesecond flooring panel 3, the first andsecond flooring panels decorative surfaces second flooring panels decorative surfaces 6 of both of the first andsecond flooring panels second flooring panels decorative surface 6 or the visible design of the seconddecorative surface 7 may be made visible depending on the desired floor design. -
FIG. 2 shows a second example of theflooring system 1 including the first andsecond flooring panels FIG. 2 , when the first andsecond flooring panels second flooring panels decorative surface 6 of thefirst flooring panel 2 and the seconddecorative surface 7 of thesecond flooring panel 3 are arranged adjacent to the sub-floor 4. Thefirst side surface 8 of thefirst flooring panel 2 opposes thesecond side surface 9 of thesecond flooring panel 3. Thetongue 11 of thefirst flooring panel 2 is inserted into thegroove 12 of thesecond flooring panel 3 so that theprojections 14 engage with theindentations 13 to lock thefirst flooring panel 2 to thesecond flooring panel 3. When thefirst flooring panel 2 is locked to thesecond flooring panel 3, the first andsecond flooring panels decorative surfaces second flooring panels member 10 is configured to be reversible, the visible design of the firstdecorative surface 6 and the visible design of the seconddecorative surface 7 may be caused to alternate depending on the desired floor design. -
FIG. 3 shows a first alternate embodiment of the lockingmember 10 of the first andsecond flooring panels FIG. 3 , the lockingmember 10 consists of thetongue 11 and thegroove 12. Themating surface 16 of thetongue 11 is provided with ahook material 20. Theabutment surface 17 of thegroove 12 is provided with aloop material 21. Thetongue 11 of thefirst flooring panel 2 is inserted into thegroove 12 of thesecond flooring panel 3 so that thehook material 20 engages with theloop material 21 to lock thefirst flooring panel 2 to thesecond flooring panel 3. Although thetongue 11 is shown and described herein as having thehook material 20 and thegroove 12 is shown and described herein as having theloop material 21, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that alternatively thetongue 11 may be formed to have theloop material 21 and thegroove 12 may be formed to have thehook material 20. -
FIG. 4 shows a second alternate embodiment of the lockingmember 10 of the first andsecond flooring panels FIG. 4 , the lockingmember 10 consists of thetongue 11 and thegroove 12. Theabutment surface 17 of thegroove 12 is provided with an adhesive 22. The adhesive 22 may be, for example, a pressure sensitive adhesive or a microsphere encapsulated adhesive. Thetongue 11 of thefirst flooring panel 2 is inserted into thegroove 12 of thesecond flooring panel 3 so that themating surface 16 engages the adhesive 22 to lock thefirst flooring panel 2 to thesecond flooring panel 3. Although theabutment surface 17 of thegroove 12 is shown and described herein as being provided with the adhesive 22, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that alternatively themating surface 16 of thetongue 11 may be provided with the adhesive 22. Additionally, the adhesive 22 may be a two part adhesive wherein a first part of the adhesive is applied to themating surface 16 and a second part of the adhesive is applied to theabutment surface 17 or vice versa. -
FIG. 5 shows a third alternate embodiment of the lockingmember 10 of the first andsecond flooring panels FIG. 5 , the lockingmember 10 consists of thetongue 11 and thegroove 12. The opposing lateral surfaces of thetongue 11 and the opposing lateral surfaces of thegroove 12 are provided with roughened surfaces at 23, 24, respectively. Thetongue 11 of thefirst flooring panel 2 is inserted into thegroove 12 of thesecond flooring panel 3 so that the roughened surfaces 23, 24 engage to frictionally lock thefirst flooring panel 2 to thesecond flooring panel 3. -
FIG. 6 shows a fourth alternate embodiment of the lockingmember 10 of the first andsecond flooring panels FIG. 6 , the lockingmember 10 consists of thetongue 11 and thegroove 12. The opposing lateral surfaces of thetongue 11 and thegroove 12 have correspondingcurved profiles curved profiles tongue 11 of thefirst flooring panel 2 is inserted into thegroove 12 of thesecond flooring panel 3 so that thecurved profiles 25 of thetongue 11 engage with thecurved profiles 26 of thegroove 12 to lock thefirst flooring panel 2 to thesecond flooring panel 3. -
FIG. 7 shows a fifth alternate embodiment of the lockingmember 10 of the first andsecond flooring panels FIG. 7 , the lockingmember 10 consists of thetongue 11 and thegroove 12. Themating surface 16 is provided with anindentation 27 formed in a substantial center thereof. Theindentation 27 has a substantially rectangular cross-section. Theabutment surface 17 is provided with aprojection 28 extending from a substantial center thereof. Theprojection 28 may be materially formed in one piece with thecore 5. Theprojection 28 is configured substantially in the shape of an arrow in that theprojection 28 consists of a shaft with a distal end having opposing inclined surfaces that converge at a central point. Thetongue 11, of thefirst flooring panel 2 is inserted into thegroove 12 of thesecond flooring panel 3 so that theprojection 28 engages with theindentation 27 to lock thefirst flooring panel 2 to thesecond flooring panel 3. Although thetongue 11 is shown and described herein as having theindentation 27 and thegroove 12 is shown and described herein as having theprojection 28, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that alternatively thetongue 11 may be formed to have theprojection 28 and thegroove 12 may be formed to have theindentation 27. -
FIG. 8 shows a sixth alternate embodiment of the lockingmember 10 of the first andsecond flooring panels FIG. 8 , the lockingmember 10 consists of thetongue 11 and thegroove 12. Themating surface 16 is provided with anindentation 29 formed in a substantial center thereof. Theindentation 29 has a distal portion having a smaller cross-section than a proximal portion thereof. Theabutment surface 17 is provided with aprojection 30 extending from a substantial center thereof. Theprojection 28 may be materially formed in one piece with thecore 5. Theprojection 30 is configured substantially in the shape of a wedge and has a distal portion having a greater cross-section than a proximal portion thereof. Thetongue 11 of thefirst flooring panel 2 is inserted into thegroove 12 of thesecond flooring panel 3 so that theprojection 30 engages with theindentation 29 to lock thefirst flooring panel 2 to thesecond flooring panel 3. Although thetongue 11 is shown and described herein as having theindentation 29 and thegroove 12 is shown and described herein as having theprojection 30, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that alternatively thetongue 11 may be formed to have theprojection 30 and thegroove 12 may be formed to have theindentation 29. -
FIGS. 9-10 show a seventh alternate embodiment of the lockingmember 10 of the first andsecond flooring panels FIG. 9 , the lockingmember 10 consists of thetongue 11, thegroove 12, and a flexible securingmember 33. One of the opposing lateral surfaces of thetongue 11 is provided with anindentation 31 having a substantially rectangular cross section and an inclined bottom surface. The opposing lateral surfaces of thegroove 12 are provided with securingmember receiving indentations 32 corresponding to theindentation 31 of thetongue 11. A flexible securingmember 33 is arranged in at least one of the securingmember receiving indentations 32. As shown inFIG. 11 , the flexible securingmember 33 is separate from the first andsecond flooring panels protrusion 34. Theprotrusion 34 of the flexible securingmember 33 is configured to project from the securingmember receiving indentation 32 when the flexible securingmember 33 is received in the securingmember receiving indentation 32. The flexible securingmember 33 may be made, for example, by molding, preferably injection molding, any type of polymer material, such as nylon, polyethylene terphthlate, polyethylene, or polypropylene. - As shown in
FIG. 9 , as thetongue 11 of thefirst flooring panel 2 is inserted into thegroove 12 of thesecond flooring panel 3, thetongue 11 engages theprotrusion 34 of the flexible securingmember 33 and pushes theprotrusion 34 into the securingmember receiving indentation 32 in one of the opposing lateral surfaces of thegroove 12. As shown inFIG. 10 , when thetongue 11 is fully received in thegroove 12, theprotrusion 34 of the flexible securingmember 33 is caused to project into theindentation 31 in thetongue 3 to lock thefirst flooring panel 2 to thesecond flooring panel 3. -
FIGS. 12-13 show an eighth alternate embodiment of the lockingmember 10 of the first andsecond flooring panels FIG. 12 , the lockingmember 10 consists of thetongue 11, thegroove 12, and a flexible securingmember 37. The opposing lateral surfaces of thetongue 11 are provided withindentations 35 having a substantially rectangular cross section and an inclined bottom surface. The opposing lateral surfaces of thegroove 12 are provided with securingmember receiving indentations 36 corresponding to theindentations 35 of thetongue 11. A flexible securingmember 37 is arranged in each of the securingmember receiving indentations 36. As shown inFIG. 14 , the flexible securingmember 37 is separate from the first andsecond flooring panels protrusion 38. Theprotrusion 38 of the flexible securingmember 37 is configured to project from the securingmember receiving indentation 36 when the flexible securingmember 37 is received in the securingmember receiving indentation 36. The flexible securingmember 37 may be made, for example, by molding, preferably injection molding, any type of polymer material, such as nylon, polyethylene terphthlate, polyethylene, or polypropylene. - As shown in
FIG. 12 , as thetongue 11 of thefirst flooring panel 2 is inserted into thegroove 12 of thesecond flooring panel 3, thetongue 11 engages theprotrusions 38 of theflexible securing members 37 and pushes theprotrusions 38 into the securingmember receiving indentations 36 in the opposing lateral surfaces of thegroove 12. As shown inFIG. 13 , when thetongue 11 is fully received in thegroove 12, theprotrusions 38 of theflexible securing members 37 are caused to project into theindentations 35 in thetongue 3 to lock thefirst flooring panel 2 to thesecond flooring panel 3. -
FIG. 15 shows aflooring system 40 including first andsecond flooring panels FIG. 15 , theflooring system 40 consists of at least two of the first andsecond flooring panels sub-floor 43. In the illustrated embodiment, the first andsecond flooring panels decorative surface 45, a seconddecorative surface 46, and a lockingmember 50. Thecore 44 is interposed between the first and seconddecorative surfaces core 44 has opposing first and second side surfaces 47, 48 that extend substantially perpendicular to the first and seconddecorative surfaces decorative surface 45 opposes the seconddecorative surface 46 and extends substantially parallel thereto. The first and seconddecorative surfaces decorative surface 45 is different from the visible design of the seconddecorative surface 46. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, however, that the visible design of the firstdecorative surface 45 and the visible design of the seconddecorative surface 46 may be the same. Theflooring panels - The locking
member 50 is formed on the first and second side surfaces 47, 48 of thecore 44. The lockingmember 50 consists of afirst locking extension 51 and asecond locking extension 52. Thefirst locking extension 51 extends from thefirst side surface 47 of the core 44 on a side proximate the seconddecorative surface 46. Thefirst locking extension 51 is substantially L-shaped and includes amating projection 53 and amating recess 54. Themating projection 53 has amating surface 55 extending substantially parallel to the first and seconddecorative surfaces mating projection 53 has opposing lateral surfaces provided withindentations 77. Themating recess 54 has anabutment surface 56 extending substantially parallel to the first and seconddecorative surfaces mating recess 54 has opposing lateral surfaces provided withprojections 76. Theprojections 76 may be materially formed in one piece with thefirst locking extension 51. Thefirst locking extension 51 may be materially formed in one piece with thecore 44. - The
second locking extension 52 extends from thesecond side surface 48 of the core 44 on a side proximate the firstdecorative surface 45. Thesecond locking extension 52 is substantially L-shaped and includes amating projection 57 and amating recess 58. Themating projection 57 has amating surface 59 extending substantially parallel to the first and seconddecorative surfaces mating projection 57 has opposing lateral surfaces provided withindentations 77 corresponding to theprojections 76 of thefirst locking extension 51. Themating recess 58 has anabutment surface 60 extending substantially parallel to the first and seconddecorative surfaces mating recess 58 has opposing lateral surfaces provided withprojections 76 corresponding to theindentations 77 of thefirst locking extension 51. Theprojections 76 may be materially formed in one piece with thesecond locking extension 52. Thesecond locking extension 52 may be materially formed in one piece with thecore 44. Thesecond locking extension 52 has a size and configuration corresponding to the size and configuration of thefirst locking extension 51. Thefirst locking extension 51 and thesecond locking extension 52 are formed such that when thefirst side surface 47 of thefirst flooring panel 41 opposes thesecond side surface 48 of thesecond flooring panel 42, thefirst locking extension 51 is capable of mating with thesecond locking extension 52 and locking therewith. - As shown in
FIG. 15 , when the first andsecond flooring panels sub-floor 43, the first andsecond flooring panels decorative surfaces 46 of both of the first andsecond flooring panels sub-floor 43. Thefirst side surface 47 of thefirst flooring panel 41 opposes thesecond side surface 48 of thesecond flooring panel 42. Thefirst locking extension 51 of thefirst flooring panel 41 is mated with thesecond locking extension 52 of thesecond flooring panel 42 so that theprojections 76 engage theindentations 77 to lock thefirst flooring panel 41 to thesecond flooring panel 42. When thefirst flooring panel 41 is locked to thesecond flooring panel 42, the first andsecond flooring panels decorative surfaces second flooring panels decorative surfaces 45 of both of the first andsecond flooring panels sub-floor 43. Thus, because the first andsecond flooring panels decorative surface 45 or the visible design of the seconddecorative surface 46 may be made visible depending on the desired floor design. -
FIG. 16 shows a first alternate embodiment of the lockingmember 50 of the first andsecond flooring panels FIG. 16 , the lockingmember 50 consists of thefirst locking extension 51 and thesecond locking extension 52. The mating surfaces 55, 59 of each of themating projections second locking extension loop material 62. The abutment surfaces 56, 60 of each of the mating recesses 54, 58 of the first andsecond locking extension hook material 61. Themating projection 53 of thefirst flooring panel 41 is inserted into themating recess 58 of thesecond flooring panel 42 so that thehook material 61 engages with theloop material 62, and themating projection 57 of thesecond flooring panel 42 is inserted into themating recess 54 of thefirst flooring panel 41 so that thehook material 61 engages with theloop material 62 to lock thefirst flooring panel 41 to thesecond flooring panel 42. Although themating projections loop material 62 and the mating recesses 54, 58 are shown and described herein as having thehook material 61, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that alternatively themating projections hook material 61 and the mating recesses 54, 58 may be formed to have theloop material 62 or any other combination thereof. -
FIG. 17 shows a second alternate embodiment of the lockingmember 50 of the first andsecond flooring panels FIG. 17 , the lockingmember 50 consists of thefirst locking extension 51 and thesecond locking extension 52. The abutment surfaces 56, 60 of the mating recesses 54, 58 are provided with an adhesive 63. The adhesive 63 may be, for example, a pressure sensitive adhesive or a microsphere encapsulated adhesive. Themating projection 53 of thefirst flooring panel 41 is inserted into themating recess 58 of thesecond flooring panel 42 so that themating surface 55 engages the adhesive 63 and themating projection 57 of thesecond flooring panel 42 is inserted into themating recess 54 of thefirst flooring panel 41 so that themating surface 59 engages the adhesive 63 to lock thefirst flooring panel 41 to thesecond flooring panel 42. Although the abutment surfaces 56, 60 of mating recesses 54, 58 are shown and described herein as being provided with the adhesive 63, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that alternatively the mating surfaces 55, 59 of themating projections -
FIG. 18 shows a third alternate embodiment of the lockingmember 50 of the first andsecond flooring panels FIG. 18 , the lockingmember 50 consists of thefirst locking extension 51 and thesecond locking extension 52. Opposing lateral surfaces of themating projections mating projection 53 of thefirst flooring panel 41 is inserted into themating recess 58 of thesecond flooring panel 42 and themating projection 57 of thesecond flooring panel 42 is inserted into themating recess 54 of thefirst flooring panel 41 so that the roughened surfaces 64, 65 engage to frictionally lock thefirst flooring panel 41 to thesecond flooring panel 42. -
FIG. 19 shows a fourth alternate embodiment of the lockingmember 50 of the first andsecond flooring panels FIG. 19 , the lockingmember 50 consists of thefirst locking extension 51 and thesecond locking extension 52. The opposing lateral surfaces of themating projections curved profiles curved profiles mating projection 53 of thefirst flooring panel 41 is inserted into themating recess 58 of thesecond flooring panel 42 and themating projection 57 of thesecond flooring panel 42 is inserted into themating recess 54 of thefirst flooring panel 41 so that thecurved profiles 66 of themating projections curved profiles 67 of the mating recesses 54, 58 to lock thefirst flooring panel 41 to thesecond flooring panel 42. -
FIG. 20 shows a fifth alternate embodiment of the lockingmember 50 of the first andsecond flooring panels FIG. 20 , the lockingmember 50 consists of thefirst locking extension 51 and thesecond locking extension 52. The mating surfaces 55, 59 are provided with anindentation 68 formed in a substantial center thereof. Theindentation 68 has a substantially rectangular cross-section. The abutment surfaces 56, 60 are provided with aprojection 69 extending from a substantial center thereof. Theprojection 69 may be materially formed in one piece with thecore 44. Theprojection 69 is configured substantially in the shape of an arrow in that theprojection 69 consists of a shaft with a distal end having opposing inclined surfaces that converge at a central point. Themating projection 53 of thefirst flooring panel 41 is inserted into themating recess 58 of thesecond flooring panel 42 and themating projection 57 of thesecond flooring panel 42 is inserted into themating recess 54 of thefirst flooring panel 41 so that theprojections 68 engage with theindentations 68 to lock thefirst flooring panel 41 to thesecond flooring panel 42. Although themating projections indentations 68 and the mating recesses 54, 58 are shown and described herein as having theprojection 69, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that alternatively the mating recesses 54, 58 may be formed to have theprojections 69 and themating projections indentations 68 or any other combination thereof. -
FIG. 21 shows a sixth alternate embodiment of the lockingmember 50 of the first andsecond flooring panels FIG. 21 , the lockingmember 50 consists of thefirst locking extension 51 and thesecond locking extension 52. The mating surfaces 55, 59 are each provided with anindentation 70 formed in a substantial center thereof. Theindentation 70 has a distal portion having a smaller cross-section than a proximal portion thereof. The abutment surfaces 56, 60 are each provided with aprojection 71 extending from a substantial center thereof. Theprojection 71 may be materially formed in one piece with thecore 44. Theprojection 71 is configured substantially in the shape of a wedge and has a distal portion having a greater cross-section than a proximal portion thereof. Themating projection 53 of thefirst flooring panel 41 is inserted into themating recess 58 of thesecond flooring panel 42 and themating projection 57 of thesecond flooring panel 42 is inserted into themating recess 54 of thefirst flooring panel 41 so that theprojections 71 engage with theindentations 70 to lock thefirst flooring panel 41 to thesecond flooring panel 42. Although themating projections projections 71 and the mating recesses 54, 58 are shown and described herein as having theindentations 70, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that alternatively the mating recesses 54, 58 may be formed to have theprojections 69 and themating projections indentations 68 or any other combination thereof. -
FIGS. 22-23 show a seventh alternate embodiment of the lockingmember 50 of the first andsecond flooring panels FIG. 22 , the lockingmember 50 consists of thefirst locking extension 51, thesecond locking extension 52, and the flexible securingmember 33. A distal lateral surface of each of themating projections indentation 72 having a substantially rectangular cross section and an inclined bottom surface. Thefirst side surface 47 of thefirst flooring panel 41 and thesecond side surface 48 of thesecond flooring panel 42 are each provided with securingmember receiving indentations 73 corresponding to theindentations 72 of themating projections member 33 is arranged in each of the securingmember receiving indentations 73. As shown inFIG. 11 and previously discussed herein, the flexible securingmember 33 is a substantially elongated strip having an end section with theprotrusion 34. Theprotrusion 34 of the flexible securingmember 33 is configured to project from the securingmember receiving indentation 73 when the flexible securingmember 33 is received in the securingmember receiving indentation 73. - As shown in
FIG. 22 , as themating projection 53 of thefirst flooring panel 41 is inserted into themating recess 58 of thesecond flooring panel 42 and themating projection 57 of thesecond flooring panel 42 is inserted into themating recess 54 of thefirst flooring panel 41, themating projections protrusions 34 of theflexible securing members 33 and push theprotrusions 34 into the securingmember receiving indentations 73. As shown inFIG. 23 , when themating projections protrusions 34 of theflexible securing members 33 are caused to project into theindentations 72 in themating projections first flooring panel 41 to thesecond flooring panel 42. -
FIGS. 24-25 show an eighth alternate embodiment of the lockingmember 50 of the first andsecond flooring panels FIG. 24 , the lockingmember 50 consists of thefirst locking extension 51, thesecond locking extension 52, and the flexible securingmember 37. A distal lateral surface of each of themating projections indentation 75 having a substantially rectangular cross section and an inclined bottom surface. Thefirst side surface 47 of thefirst flooring panel 41 and thesecond side surface 48 of thesecond flooring panel 42 are each provided with securingmember receiving indentations 75 corresponding to theindentations 74 of themating projections member 37 is arranged in each of the securingmember receiving indentations 75. As shown inFIG. 14 and previously discussed herein, the flexible securingmember 37 is a substantially elongated strip having a substantial V-shape and an end section with aprotrusion 38. Theprotrusion 38 of the flexible securingmember 37 is configured to project from the securingmember receiving indentation 75 when the flexible securingmember 37 is received in the securingmember receiving indentation 75. - As shown in
FIG. 24 , as themating projection 53 of thefirst flooring panel 41 is inserted into themating recess 58 of thesecond flooring panel 42 and themating projection 57 of thesecond flooring panel 42 is inserted into themating recess 54 of thefirst flooring panel 41, themating projections protrusions 38 of theflexible securing members 37 and push theprotrusions 38 into the securingmember receiving indentations 75. As shown inFIG. 25 , when themating projections protrusions 38 of theflexible securing members 37 are caused to project into theindentations 74 in themating projections first flooring panel 41 to thesecond flooring panel 42. -
FIG. 26 shows aflooring system 80 including first andsecond flooring panels FIG. 26 , theflooring system 80 consists of at least two of the first andsecond flooring panels sub-floor 83. In the illustrated embodiment, the first andsecond flooring panels decorative surface 85, a seconddecorative surface 86, and a lockingmember 90. Thecore 84 is interposed between the first and seconddecorative surfaces core 84 has opposing first and second side surfaces 87, 88 that extend substantially perpendicular to the first and seconddecorative surfaces decorative surface 85 opposes the seconddecorative surface 86 and extends substantially parallel thereto. The first and seconddecorative surfaces decorative surface 85 is different from the visible design of the seconddecorative surface 86. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, however, that the visible design of the firstdecorative surface 85 and the visible design of the seconddecorative surface 86 may be the same. Each of the first andsecond flooring panels central axis 89 extending substantially parallel to the first and seconddecorative surfaces flooring panels - The locking
member 90 consists of a pair of opposinggrooves member 93. Thegrooves grooves member 93. Thegrooves projections 94. Theprojections 94 are arranged proximate an opening into thegrooves projections 94 may be materially formed in one piece with thecore 5. The flexible securingmember 93 is separate from the first andsecond flooring panels protrusions 95. The flexible securingmember 93 may be made, for example, by molding, preferably injection molding, any type of polymer material, such as nylon, polyethylene terphthlate, polyethylene, or polypropylene. - As shown in
FIG. 26 , when the first andsecond flooring panels sub-floor 83, the first andsecond flooring panels decorative surfaces 86 of both of the first andsecond flooring panels sub-floor 83. Thefirst side surface 87 of thefirst flooring panel 81 opposes thesecond side surface 88 of thesecond flooring panel 82. The flexible securingmember 93 is inserted into thegroove 91 of thefirst flooring panel 81 until theprotrusion 95 rides over theprojection 94 and locks behind theprojection 94. As shown inFIG. 27 , the flexible securingmember 93 is inserted into thegroove 92 of thesecond flooring panel 82 until theprotrusion 95 rides over theprojection 94 and locks behind theprojection 94. Theprotrusions 95 therefore engage with theprojections 94 to lock thefirst flooring panel 81 to thesecond flooring panel 82, as shown inFIG. 28 . When thefirst flooring panel 81 is locked to thesecond flooring panel 82, the first andsecond flooring panels decorative surfaces second flooring panels decorative surfaces 85 of both of the first andsecond flooring panels sub-floor 83. Thus, because the first andsecond flooring panels decorative surface 85 or the visible design of the seconddecorative surface 86 may be made visible depending on the desired floor design. Additionally, because the lockingmember 10 is configured to be reversible, the visible design of the firstdecorative surface 85 and the visible design of the seconddecorative surface 86 may be caused to alternate depending on the desired floor design. - The foregoing illustrates some of the possibilities for practicing the invention. Many other embodiments are possible within the scope and spirit of the invention. For example, the locking member is not limited to the locking
members first flooring panels second flooring panel second flooring panels second flooring panels second flooring panels
Claims (32)
1. A flooring panel for a flooring system, comprising:
a core interposed between a first decorative surface and a second decorative surface, the core having opposing first and second side surfaces extending substantially perpendicular to the first and second decorative surfaces, the first and second decorative surfaces being impregnated cellulosic layers having different visible designs; and
at least the first side surface being provided with at least a portion of a locking member.
2. The reversible flooring panel of claim 1 , wherein the flooring panel is symmetrical about a central axis extending substantially parallel to the first and second decorative surfaces and substantially perpendicular to the first and second side surfaces.
3. The reversible flooring panel of claim 1 , wherein the second side surface has at least a portion of a locking member, the locking member of the first side surface corresponding to the locking member of the second side surface.
4. The reversible flooring panel of claim 1 , wherein the core is a high density fiberboard or medium density fiberboard.
5. The reversible flooring panel of claim 4 , wherein the locking member on the first side surface is a tongue and the locking member on the second side surface is a groove.
6. The reversible flooring panel of claim 4 , wherein the locking member on the first side surface is a substantially L-shaped first locking extension and the locking member on the second side surface is a substantially L-shaped second locking extension.
7. The reversible flooring panel of claim 4 , wherein the locking member includes a flexible securing member separate from the flooring panel.
8. A flooring system, comprising:
at least a first and second flooring panel, the first and second flooring panels each having a core interposed between a first decorative surface and a second decorative surface, the core having opposing first and second side surfaces extending substantially perpendicular to the first and second decorative surfaces, the first side surface of the first flooring panel being positioned adjacent to the second side surface of the second flooring panel, the first and second decorative surfaces being impregnated cellulosic layers having different visible designs; and
a locking member extending between the first side surface of the first flooring panel and the second side surface of the second flooring panel that locks the first flooring panel to the second flooring panel.
9. The flooring system of claim 8 , wherein the first and second flooring panels are symmetrical about a central axis extending substantially parallel to the first and second decorative surfaces and substantially perpendicular to the first and second side surfaces.
10. The flooring system of claim 8 , wherein the first decorative surface of the first flooring panel is in the same plane as the first decorative surface of the second flooring panel.
11. The flooring system of claim 8 , wherein the first decorative surface of the first flooring panel is in the same plane as the second decorative surface of the second flooring panel.
12. The flooring system of claim 8 , wherein the core is a high density fiberboard or medium density fiberboard.
13. The flooring system of claim 8 , wherein the first and second flooring panels are mounted on a sub-floor, the first and second flooring panels being reversible such that the first decorative surfaces or the second decorative surfaces of the first and second flooring panels can be mounted adjacent to the sub-floor.
14. The flooring system of claim 13 , wherein the first decorative surface of the first flooring panel is mounted adjacent to the sub-floor and the second decorative surface of the second flooring panel is mounted adjacent to the sub-floor.
15. The flooring system of claim 14 , wherein the locking member prevents the first and second flooring panels from moving in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first and second side surfaces and in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first and second decorative surfaces.
16. The flooring system of claim 8 , wherein the first and second flooring panels are identical.
17. The flooring system of claim 8 , wherein the locking member includes a tongue and a groove.
18. The flooring system of claim 17 , wherein the tongue has opposing lateral surfaces provided with indentations corresponding to projections provided on opposing lateral surfaces of the groove.
19. The flooring system of claim 17 , wherein the tongue is provided with a hook material corresponding to a loop material provided on the groove.
20. The flooring system of claim 17 , wherein at least the groove is provided with an adhesive.
21. The flooring system of claim 17 , wherein the tongue has opposing lateral surfaces provided with roughened surfaces corresponding to roughened surfaces provided on opposing lateral surfaces of the groove.
22. The flooring system of claim 17 , wherein the tongue has at least one indentation corresponding to at least one projection provided on the groove.
23. The flooring system of claim 17 , wherein the tongue has opposing lateral surfaces provided with curved profiles corresponding to curved profiles provided on opposing lateral surfaces of the groove.
24. The flooring system of claim 8 , wherein the locking member includes substantially L-shaped first locking extension extending from the first side surface and a substantially L-shaped second locking extension extending from the second side surface.
25. The flooring system of claim 24 , wherein the first and second locking extensions each have a mating projection and a mating recess.
26. The flooring system of claim 25 , wherein the mating projections have opposing lateral surfaces provided with indentations corresponding to projections provided on opposing lateral surfaces of the mating recesses.
27. The flooring system of claim 25 , wherein the mating projections are provided with a loop material corresponding to hook material provided on the mating recesses.
28. The flooring system of claim 25 , wherein at least the mating recesses are provided with an adhesive.
29. The flooring system of claim 25 , wherein the mating projections have opposing lateral surfaces provided with roughened surfaces corresponding to roughened surfaces provided on opposing lateral surfaces of the mating recesses.
30. The flooring system of claim 25 , wherein the mating projections are provided with at least one indentation corresponding to at least one projection provided on the mating recesses.
31. The flooring system of claim 25 , wherein the mating projections have opposing lateral surfaces provided with curved profiles corresponding to curved profiles provided on opposing lateral surfaces of the mating recesses.
32. The flooring system of claim 8 , wherein the locking member includes a flexible securing member separate from the first and second flooring panels.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/587,422 US20100083603A1 (en) | 2008-10-08 | 2009-10-07 | Flooring panel with first and second decorative surfaces |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10364208P | 2008-10-08 | 2008-10-08 | |
US12/587,422 US20100083603A1 (en) | 2008-10-08 | 2009-10-07 | Flooring panel with first and second decorative surfaces |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20100083603A1 true US20100083603A1 (en) | 2010-04-08 |
Family
ID=42074667
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/587,422 Abandoned US20100083603A1 (en) | 2008-10-08 | 2009-10-07 | Flooring panel with first and second decorative surfaces |
Country Status (3)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20100083603A1 (en) |
CN (1) | CN102239301A (en) |
WO (1) | WO2010042182A1 (en) |
Cited By (75)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20090193748A1 (en) * | 2008-01-31 | 2009-08-06 | Valinge Innovation Belgium Bvba | Mechanical locking of floor panels |
US20100293879A1 (en) * | 2007-11-07 | 2010-11-25 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking of floor panels with vertical snap folding and an installation method to connect such panels |
US20110167750A1 (en) * | 2010-01-12 | 2011-07-14 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
EP2487309A1 (en) * | 2011-02-11 | 2012-08-15 | Barlinek S.A. | Construction panels with hook connection |
US20120279161A1 (en) * | 2011-05-06 | 2012-11-08 | Välinge Flooring Technology AB | Mechanical locking system for building panels |
WO2013009257A1 (en) * | 2011-07-11 | 2013-01-17 | Välinge Flooring Technology AB | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US8448402B2 (en) | 2008-05-15 | 2013-05-28 | Välinge Innovation AB | Mechanical locking of building panels |
WO2013083629A1 (en) * | 2011-12-06 | 2013-06-13 | Akzenta Paneele + Profile Gmbh | Locking system for panels, and panel with locking system |
US8544234B2 (en) | 2007-11-07 | 2013-10-01 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking of floor panels with vertical snap folding |
US8549807B2 (en) * | 2010-05-10 | 2013-10-08 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel and methods for manufacturing floor panels |
US8572922B2 (en) | 2011-07-05 | 2013-11-05 | Valinge Flooring Technology Ab | Mechanical locking of floor panels with a glued tongue |
US8596013B2 (en) | 2012-04-04 | 2013-12-03 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Building panel with a mechanical locking system |
US8627862B2 (en) | 2008-01-31 | 2014-01-14 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking of floor panels, methods to install and uninstall panels, a method and an equipment to produce the locking system, a method to connect a displaceable tongue to a panel and a tongue blank |
US8650826B2 (en) | 2011-07-19 | 2014-02-18 | Valinge Flooring Technology Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US8713886B2 (en) | 2009-01-30 | 2014-05-06 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical lockings of floor panels and a tongue blank |
US8763340B2 (en) | 2011-08-15 | 2014-07-01 | Valinge Flooring Technology Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US8769905B2 (en) | 2011-08-15 | 2014-07-08 | Valinge Flooring Technology Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US8776473B2 (en) | 2010-02-04 | 2014-07-15 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US8806832B2 (en) | 2011-03-18 | 2014-08-19 | Inotec Global Limited | Vertical joint system and associated surface covering system |
US8857126B2 (en) | 2011-08-15 | 2014-10-14 | Valinge Flooring Technology Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US8925275B2 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2015-01-06 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel |
US8997430B1 (en) | 2010-04-15 | 2015-04-07 | Spanolux N.V.-Div. Balterio | Floor panel assembly |
US9121181B2 (en) * | 2011-07-29 | 2015-09-01 | Hamberger Industriewerke Gmbh | Connection for elastic or panel-type components, profiled slide, and floor covering |
US9216541B2 (en) | 2012-04-04 | 2015-12-22 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Method for producing a mechanical locking system for building panels |
WO2016010414A1 (en) * | 2014-07-17 | 2016-01-21 | Fok Seng Chong | Floor panel |
US9260870B2 (en) | 2014-03-24 | 2016-02-16 | Ivc N.V. | Set of mutually lockable panels |
US9366036B2 (en) | 2012-11-22 | 2016-06-14 | Ceraloc Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US9375085B2 (en) | 2014-07-11 | 2016-06-28 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Panel with a slider |
US20160244978A1 (en) * | 2015-02-25 | 2016-08-25 | Yu-Yung CHENG | Dismountable flooring block |
US9458634B2 (en) * | 2014-05-14 | 2016-10-04 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Building panel with a mechanical locking system |
US20160340913A1 (en) * | 2014-05-14 | 2016-11-24 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Building panel with a mechanical locking system |
US20160369101A1 (en) * | 2014-01-13 | 2016-12-22 | Greenfiber Tech, Lda. | Composite material and modular covering |
US9528278B2 (en) | 2009-12-22 | 2016-12-27 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Panel, covering and method for installing such panels |
WO2017015749A1 (en) * | 2015-07-24 | 2017-02-02 | Robert Clausi | Pressed laminate panel with a single layer elastomeric treated paper |
US9655442B2 (en) | 2014-12-19 | 2017-05-23 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Panels comprising a mechanical locking device and an assembled product comprising the panels |
US9714672B2 (en) | 2014-01-10 | 2017-07-25 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Panels comprising a mechanical locking device and an assembled product comprising the panels |
US9726210B2 (en) | 2013-09-16 | 2017-08-08 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Assembled product and a method of assembling the product |
US9725912B2 (en) | 2011-07-11 | 2017-08-08 | Ceraloc Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US9885187B2 (en) | 2012-09-19 | 2018-02-06 | Inotec Global Limited | Panel for covering a surface or support and an associated joint system |
US9945121B2 (en) | 2015-12-03 | 2018-04-17 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Panels comprising a mechanical locking device and an assembled product comprising the panels |
JP2018514288A (en) * | 2015-04-30 | 2018-06-07 | ベーリンゲ、イノベイション、アクチボラグVaelinge Innovation Ab | Panel with fastening device |
US10017948B2 (en) | 2013-06-27 | 2018-07-10 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Building panel with a mechanical locking system |
US10138636B2 (en) | 2014-11-27 | 2018-11-27 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US10161139B2 (en) | 2014-12-22 | 2018-12-25 | Ceraloc Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US10190323B2 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2019-01-29 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel |
US10280627B2 (en) | 2014-03-24 | 2019-05-07 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Set of mutually lockable panels |
US10415613B2 (en) | 2016-02-09 | 2019-09-17 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Set of panel-shaped elements for a composed element |
US10451097B2 (en) | 2013-09-16 | 2019-10-22 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Assembled product and a method of assembling the assembled product |
US10448739B2 (en) | 2015-09-22 | 2019-10-22 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Panels comprising a mechanical locking device and an assembled product comprising the panels |
US10486245B2 (en) | 2016-02-09 | 2019-11-26 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Element and method for providing dismantling groove |
US10538922B2 (en) | 2015-01-16 | 2020-01-21 | Ceraloc Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US10544818B2 (en) | 2016-02-04 | 2020-01-28 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Set of panels for an assembled product |
US10548397B2 (en) | 2016-01-26 | 2020-02-04 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Panels comprising a mechanical locking device and an assembled product comprising the panels |
US10670064B2 (en) | 2015-04-21 | 2020-06-02 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Panel with a slider |
WO2020117117A1 (en) * | 2018-12-05 | 2020-06-11 | Välinge Innovation AB | Subfloor joint |
GB2520421B (en) * | 2013-10-21 | 2020-06-17 | Unilin Bvba | Set of building elements and filling material for the joint between building elements |
US10724564B2 (en) | 2016-10-27 | 2020-07-28 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Set of panels with a mechanical locking device |
US10736416B2 (en) | 2018-03-23 | 2020-08-11 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Panels comprising a mechanical locking device and an assembled product comprising the panels |
US10830268B2 (en) | 2014-01-10 | 2020-11-10 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Furniture panel |
US10830266B2 (en) | 2016-02-15 | 2020-11-10 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Method for forming a panel |
US10876562B2 (en) | 2014-05-09 | 2020-12-29 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for building panels |
US10941578B2 (en) | 2018-01-10 | 2021-03-09 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Subfloor joint |
US11060302B2 (en) | 2019-01-10 | 2021-07-13 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Unlocking system for panels |
WO2021144613A1 (en) * | 2020-01-16 | 2021-07-22 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Reversible floor covering element |
WO2021148900A1 (en) * | 2020-01-22 | 2021-07-29 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Panel comprising coupling parts |
US11076691B2 (en) | 2018-04-18 | 2021-08-03 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Set of panels with a mechanical locking device |
US20210381251A1 (en) * | 2020-06-05 | 2021-12-09 | Välinge Innovation AB | Building panels comprising a locking device |
US11272783B2 (en) | 2017-12-22 | 2022-03-15 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Set of panels |
US11371542B2 (en) | 2017-12-22 | 2022-06-28 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Set of panels |
US11448252B2 (en) | 2018-04-18 | 2022-09-20 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Set of panels with a mechanical locking device |
US11445819B2 (en) | 2018-08-30 | 2022-09-20 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Set of panels with a mechanical locking device |
US11506235B2 (en) | 2017-05-15 | 2022-11-22 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Elements and a locking device for an assembled product |
US11536307B2 (en) | 2018-04-18 | 2022-12-27 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Symmetric tongue and t-cross |
US11614114B2 (en) | 2018-04-19 | 2023-03-28 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Panels for an assembled product |
US11703072B2 (en) | 2018-04-18 | 2023-07-18 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Set of panels with a mechanical locking device |
Families Citing this family (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
TWI507610B (en) * | 2013-03-11 | 2015-11-11 | Pegatron Corp | Coupling device |
US9249582B1 (en) * | 2014-11-14 | 2016-02-02 | Awi Licensing Company | Interlocking floor panels with high performance locking profiles |
CN104533906A (en) * | 2014-12-27 | 2015-04-22 | 山东艺格实业有限公司 | Solid wood door component tenon and mortise connection structure and assembling method thereof |
Citations (16)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US1995264A (en) * | 1931-11-03 | 1935-03-19 | Masonite Corp | Composite structural unit |
US2834065A (en) * | 1953-03-06 | 1958-05-13 | Herbert B Mueller | Portable, reversible dance floor |
US3627362A (en) * | 1969-08-13 | 1971-12-14 | John H Brenneman | Spline and seat connector assemblies |
US5758466A (en) * | 1997-04-10 | 1998-06-02 | Tucker; Jan L. | Snap-together structure |
US6421970B1 (en) * | 1995-03-07 | 2002-07-23 | Perstorp Flooring Ab | Flooring panel or wall panel and use thereof |
US6438919B1 (en) * | 1997-06-18 | 2002-08-27 | M. Kaindl | Building component structure, or building components |
US6505452B1 (en) * | 1999-06-30 | 2003-01-14 | Akzenta Paneele + Profile Gmbh | Panel and fastening system for panels |
US20030091758A1 (en) * | 2000-03-24 | 2003-05-15 | Shiro Osumi | Decorative material and decorative plate |
US20050160694A1 (en) * | 2002-04-03 | 2005-07-28 | Valinge Aluminium | Mechanical locking system for floorboards |
US20060236642A1 (en) * | 2005-03-30 | 2006-10-26 | Valinge Aluminium Ab | Mechanical locking system for panels and method of installing same |
US20060260253A1 (en) * | 2005-05-23 | 2006-11-23 | Quality Craft Ltd. | Laminate flooring panel bevel and method of manufacturing same |
US20060260252A1 (en) * | 2005-05-23 | 2006-11-23 | Quality Craft Ltd. | Connection for laminate flooring |
US20070130872A1 (en) * | 2005-12-08 | 2007-06-14 | Goodwin Milton W | Wide width lock and fold laminate |
US20080000188A1 (en) * | 2003-02-24 | 2008-01-03 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Floorboard and method for manufacturing thereof |
US20080010938A1 (en) * | 2001-08-10 | 2008-01-17 | Akzenta Paneele + Profile Gmbh | Panel and fastening system for such panel |
US20110030303A1 (en) * | 2008-01-31 | 2011-02-10 | Valinge Innovation Belguim BVBA | Mechanical locking of floor panels, methods to install and uninstall panels, a method and an equipement to produce the locking system, a method to connect a displaceable tongue to a panel and a tongue blank |
-
2009
- 2009-10-07 US US12/587,422 patent/US20100083603A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2009-10-07 WO PCT/US2009/005501 patent/WO2010042182A1/en active Application Filing
- 2009-10-07 CN CN2009801484790A patent/CN102239301A/en active Pending
Patent Citations (16)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US1995264A (en) * | 1931-11-03 | 1935-03-19 | Masonite Corp | Composite structural unit |
US2834065A (en) * | 1953-03-06 | 1958-05-13 | Herbert B Mueller | Portable, reversible dance floor |
US3627362A (en) * | 1969-08-13 | 1971-12-14 | John H Brenneman | Spline and seat connector assemblies |
US6421970B1 (en) * | 1995-03-07 | 2002-07-23 | Perstorp Flooring Ab | Flooring panel or wall panel and use thereof |
US5758466A (en) * | 1997-04-10 | 1998-06-02 | Tucker; Jan L. | Snap-together structure |
US6438919B1 (en) * | 1997-06-18 | 2002-08-27 | M. Kaindl | Building component structure, or building components |
US6505452B1 (en) * | 1999-06-30 | 2003-01-14 | Akzenta Paneele + Profile Gmbh | Panel and fastening system for panels |
US20030091758A1 (en) * | 2000-03-24 | 2003-05-15 | Shiro Osumi | Decorative material and decorative plate |
US20080010938A1 (en) * | 2001-08-10 | 2008-01-17 | Akzenta Paneele + Profile Gmbh | Panel and fastening system for such panel |
US20050160694A1 (en) * | 2002-04-03 | 2005-07-28 | Valinge Aluminium | Mechanical locking system for floorboards |
US20080000188A1 (en) * | 2003-02-24 | 2008-01-03 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Floorboard and method for manufacturing thereof |
US20060236642A1 (en) * | 2005-03-30 | 2006-10-26 | Valinge Aluminium Ab | Mechanical locking system for panels and method of installing same |
US20060260253A1 (en) * | 2005-05-23 | 2006-11-23 | Quality Craft Ltd. | Laminate flooring panel bevel and method of manufacturing same |
US20060260252A1 (en) * | 2005-05-23 | 2006-11-23 | Quality Craft Ltd. | Connection for laminate flooring |
US20070130872A1 (en) * | 2005-12-08 | 2007-06-14 | Goodwin Milton W | Wide width lock and fold laminate |
US20110030303A1 (en) * | 2008-01-31 | 2011-02-10 | Valinge Innovation Belguim BVBA | Mechanical locking of floor panels, methods to install and uninstall panels, a method and an equipement to produce the locking system, a method to connect a displaceable tongue to a panel and a tongue blank |
Cited By (190)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US8544234B2 (en) | 2007-11-07 | 2013-10-01 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking of floor panels with vertical snap folding |
US20100293879A1 (en) * | 2007-11-07 | 2010-11-25 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking of floor panels with vertical snap folding and an installation method to connect such panels |
US11519183B2 (en) | 2007-11-07 | 2022-12-06 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking of floor panels with vertical snap folding |
US10214917B2 (en) | 2007-11-07 | 2019-02-26 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking of floor panels with vertical snap folding |
US8499521B2 (en) | 2007-11-07 | 2013-08-06 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking of floor panels with vertical snap folding and an installation method to connect such panels |
US9340974B2 (en) | 2008-01-31 | 2016-05-17 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking of floor panels |
US20090193748A1 (en) * | 2008-01-31 | 2009-08-06 | Valinge Innovation Belgium Bvba | Mechanical locking of floor panels |
US8627862B2 (en) | 2008-01-31 | 2014-01-14 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking of floor panels, methods to install and uninstall panels, a method and an equipment to produce the locking system, a method to connect a displaceable tongue to a panel and a tongue blank |
US8505257B2 (en) | 2008-01-31 | 2013-08-13 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking of floor panels |
US8925274B2 (en) | 2008-05-15 | 2015-01-06 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking of building panels |
US8448402B2 (en) | 2008-05-15 | 2013-05-28 | Välinge Innovation AB | Mechanical locking of building panels |
US8713886B2 (en) | 2009-01-30 | 2014-05-06 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical lockings of floor panels and a tongue blank |
US9670682B2 (en) | 2009-12-22 | 2017-06-06 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Panel, covering and method for installing such panels |
US9670683B2 (en) | 2009-12-22 | 2017-06-06 | Flooring Industries Limited,Sarl | Panel, covering and method for installing such panels |
US10550582B2 (en) | 2009-12-22 | 2020-02-04 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Panel, covering and method for installing such panels |
US10428534B2 (en) | 2009-12-22 | 2019-10-01 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Panel, covering and method for installing such panels |
US9528278B2 (en) | 2009-12-22 | 2016-12-27 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Panel, covering and method for installing such panels |
US11668099B2 (en) | 2009-12-22 | 2023-06-06 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Panel, covering and method for installing such panels |
US8544230B2 (en) | 2010-01-12 | 2013-10-01 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US9453347B2 (en) | 2010-01-12 | 2016-09-27 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US8898988B2 (en) | 2010-01-12 | 2014-12-02 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US20110167750A1 (en) * | 2010-01-12 | 2011-07-14 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US9428919B2 (en) | 2010-02-04 | 2016-08-30 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US8776473B2 (en) | 2010-02-04 | 2014-07-15 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US9003735B2 (en) | 2010-04-15 | 2015-04-14 | Spanolux N.V.—Div. Balterio | Floor panel assembly |
US8997430B1 (en) | 2010-04-15 | 2015-04-07 | Spanolux N.V.-Div. Balterio | Floor panel assembly |
US9476208B2 (en) | 2010-04-15 | 2016-10-25 | Spanolux N.V.—Div. Balterio | Floor panel assembly |
US9322184B2 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2016-04-26 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Methods for manufacturing floor panels |
US10100533B2 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2018-10-16 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel |
US10815676B2 (en) * | 2010-05-10 | 2020-10-27 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel |
US10190323B2 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2019-01-29 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel |
US11371249B2 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2022-06-28 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel |
US11634913B2 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2023-04-25 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel |
US10876303B2 (en) * | 2010-05-10 | 2020-12-29 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel |
US9080330B2 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2015-07-14 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel |
US10889998B2 (en) * | 2010-05-10 | 2021-01-12 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel |
US9809984B2 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2017-11-07 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel |
US9163414B2 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2015-10-20 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel |
US9212494B2 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2015-12-15 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel |
US9783995B2 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2017-10-10 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel |
US10597876B2 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2020-03-24 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel |
US11634914B2 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2023-04-25 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel |
US10927553B2 (en) * | 2010-05-10 | 2021-02-23 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel |
US11236514B2 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2022-02-01 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel |
US10041259B2 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2018-08-07 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel |
US10870994B2 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2020-12-22 | Flooring Industries Limited Sarl | Floor panel |
US9366035B2 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2016-06-14 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel |
US10208490B2 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2019-02-19 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel |
US10214921B2 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2019-02-26 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel |
US10233655B2 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2019-03-19 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel |
US8549807B2 (en) * | 2010-05-10 | 2013-10-08 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel and methods for manufacturing floor panels |
US11566432B2 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2023-01-31 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel |
US11795702B2 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2023-10-24 | Flooring Industries Limited Sarl | Floor panel |
US10267048B2 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2019-04-23 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel |
US10301831B2 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2019-05-28 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel |
US9453348B1 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2016-09-27 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel |
US11505949B2 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2022-11-22 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel |
US8925275B2 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2015-01-06 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel |
US11193282B2 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2021-12-07 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel |
US11377857B2 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2022-07-05 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel |
US10094123B2 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2018-10-09 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Floor panel |
EP2487309A1 (en) * | 2011-02-11 | 2012-08-15 | Barlinek S.A. | Construction panels with hook connection |
US11613897B2 (en) | 2011-03-18 | 2023-03-28 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Vertical joint system and associated surface covering system |
US10724251B2 (en) | 2011-03-18 | 2020-07-28 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Vertical joint system and associated surface covering system |
US10000935B2 (en) | 2011-03-18 | 2018-06-19 | Inotec Global Limited | Vertical joint system and associated surface covering system |
US9103126B2 (en) | 2011-03-18 | 2015-08-11 | Inotec Global Limited | Vertical joint system and associated surface covering system |
US8806832B2 (en) | 2011-03-18 | 2014-08-19 | Inotec Global Limited | Vertical joint system and associated surface covering system |
US11091920B2 (en) | 2011-03-18 | 2021-08-17 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Vertical joint system and associated surface covering system |
US8887468B2 (en) * | 2011-05-06 | 2014-11-18 | Valinge Flooring Technology Ab | Mechanical locking system for building panels |
RU2592019C2 (en) * | 2011-05-06 | 2016-07-20 | Велинге Инновейшн Аб | Mechanical locking system for construction panels |
US11781577B2 (en) | 2011-05-06 | 2023-10-10 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for building panels |
US10202996B2 (en) * | 2011-05-06 | 2019-02-12 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for building panels |
US9538842B2 (en) * | 2011-05-06 | 2017-01-10 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for building panels |
US20120279161A1 (en) * | 2011-05-06 | 2012-11-08 | Välinge Flooring Technology AB | Mechanical locking system for building panels |
US11428253B2 (en) | 2011-05-06 | 2022-08-30 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for building panels |
US20150035422A1 (en) * | 2011-05-06 | 2015-02-05 | Valinge Flooring Technology Ab | Mechanical locking system for building panels |
US10871179B2 (en) | 2011-05-06 | 2020-12-22 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for building panels |
WO2012154113A1 (en) * | 2011-05-06 | 2012-11-15 | Välinge Flooring Technology AB | Mechanical locking system for building panels |
US9856656B2 (en) * | 2011-07-05 | 2018-01-02 | Ceraloc Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking of floor panels with a glued tongue |
US8572922B2 (en) | 2011-07-05 | 2013-11-05 | Valinge Flooring Technology Ab | Mechanical locking of floor panels with a glued tongue |
US20150121796A1 (en) * | 2011-07-05 | 2015-05-07 | Valinge Flooring Technology Ab | Mechanical locking of floor panels with a glued tongue |
US8959866B2 (en) | 2011-07-05 | 2015-02-24 | Valinge Flooring Technology Ab | Mechanical locking of floor panels with a glued tongue |
EP4227474A1 (en) * | 2011-07-11 | 2023-08-16 | Ceraloc Innovation AB | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US9725912B2 (en) | 2011-07-11 | 2017-08-08 | Ceraloc Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US10519676B2 (en) | 2011-07-11 | 2019-12-31 | Ceraloc Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US10995501B2 (en) * | 2011-07-11 | 2021-05-04 | Ceraloc Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
WO2013009257A1 (en) * | 2011-07-11 | 2013-01-17 | Välinge Flooring Technology AB | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US8650826B2 (en) | 2011-07-19 | 2014-02-18 | Valinge Flooring Technology Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US9284737B2 (en) | 2011-07-19 | 2016-03-15 | Valinge Flooring Technology Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US10240349B2 (en) | 2011-07-19 | 2019-03-26 | Ceraloc Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US9874027B2 (en) | 2011-07-19 | 2018-01-23 | Ceraloc Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US9121181B2 (en) * | 2011-07-29 | 2015-09-01 | Hamberger Industriewerke Gmbh | Connection for elastic or panel-type components, profiled slide, and floor covering |
US8769905B2 (en) | 2011-08-15 | 2014-07-08 | Valinge Flooring Technology Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US8763340B2 (en) | 2011-08-15 | 2014-07-01 | Valinge Flooring Technology Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US9051738B2 (en) | 2011-08-15 | 2015-06-09 | Valinge Flooring Technology Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US10180005B2 (en) | 2011-08-15 | 2019-01-15 | Ceraloc Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US10968639B2 (en) | 2011-08-15 | 2021-04-06 | Ceraloc Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US8857126B2 (en) | 2011-08-15 | 2014-10-14 | Valinge Flooring Technology Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US9388584B2 (en) | 2011-08-15 | 2016-07-12 | Ceraloc Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US9376822B2 (en) | 2011-12-06 | 2016-06-28 | Akzenta Paneele + Profile Gmbh | Locking system for panels, and panel with locking system |
WO2013083629A1 (en) * | 2011-12-06 | 2013-06-13 | Akzenta Paneele + Profile Gmbh | Locking system for panels, and panel with locking system |
US8596013B2 (en) | 2012-04-04 | 2013-12-03 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Building panel with a mechanical locking system |
US10794065B2 (en) | 2012-04-04 | 2020-10-06 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Method for producing a mechanical locking system for building panels |
US9216541B2 (en) | 2012-04-04 | 2015-12-22 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Method for producing a mechanical locking system for building panels |
US9885187B2 (en) | 2012-09-19 | 2018-02-06 | Inotec Global Limited | Panel for covering a surface or support and an associated joint system |
US9366036B2 (en) | 2012-11-22 | 2016-06-14 | Ceraloc Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US9771723B2 (en) | 2012-11-22 | 2017-09-26 | Ceraloc Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US11066835B2 (en) | 2013-06-27 | 2021-07-20 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Building panel with a mechanical locking system |
US11746536B2 (en) | 2013-06-27 | 2023-09-05 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Building panel with a mechanical locking system |
US10017948B2 (en) | 2013-06-27 | 2018-07-10 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Building panel with a mechanical locking system |
US10352049B2 (en) | 2013-06-27 | 2019-07-16 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Building panel with a mechanical locking system |
US11680596B2 (en) | 2013-09-16 | 2023-06-20 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Assembled product and a method of assembling the assembled product |
US11649843B2 (en) | 2013-09-16 | 2023-05-16 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Assembled product and a method of assembling the product |
US10876563B2 (en) | 2013-09-16 | 2020-12-29 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Assembled product and a method of assembling the product |
US10451097B2 (en) | 2013-09-16 | 2019-10-22 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Assembled product and a method of assembling the assembled product |
US9726210B2 (en) | 2013-09-16 | 2017-08-08 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Assembled product and a method of assembling the product |
US10731688B2 (en) | 2013-09-16 | 2020-08-04 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Assembled product and a method of assembling the assembled product |
US11204051B2 (en) | 2013-09-16 | 2021-12-21 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Assembled product and a method of assembling the assembled product |
GB2520421B (en) * | 2013-10-21 | 2020-06-17 | Unilin Bvba | Set of building elements and filling material for the joint between building elements |
US10830268B2 (en) | 2014-01-10 | 2020-11-10 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Furniture panel |
US9714672B2 (en) | 2014-01-10 | 2017-07-25 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Panels comprising a mechanical locking device and an assembled product comprising the panels |
US11448249B2 (en) | 2014-01-10 | 2022-09-20 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Panels comprising a mechanical locking device and an assembled product comprising the panels |
US20160369101A1 (en) * | 2014-01-13 | 2016-12-22 | Greenfiber Tech, Lda. | Composite material and modular covering |
US9260870B2 (en) | 2014-03-24 | 2016-02-16 | Ivc N.V. | Set of mutually lockable panels |
US10612250B2 (en) | 2014-03-24 | 2020-04-07 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Set of mutually lockable panels |
US10280627B2 (en) | 2014-03-24 | 2019-05-07 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Set of mutually lockable panels |
US10876562B2 (en) | 2014-05-09 | 2020-12-29 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for building panels |
US11326636B2 (en) | 2014-05-09 | 2022-05-10 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for building panels |
US11885355B2 (en) | 2014-05-09 | 2024-01-30 | Välinge Innovation AB | Mechanical locking system for building panels |
US10246883B2 (en) * | 2014-05-14 | 2019-04-02 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Building panel with a mechanical locking system |
US20160340913A1 (en) * | 2014-05-14 | 2016-11-24 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Building panel with a mechanical locking system |
US9458634B2 (en) * | 2014-05-14 | 2016-10-04 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Building panel with a mechanical locking system |
US9375085B2 (en) | 2014-07-11 | 2016-06-28 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Panel with a slider |
US9723923B2 (en) | 2014-07-11 | 2017-08-08 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Panel with a slider |
WO2016010414A1 (en) * | 2014-07-17 | 2016-01-21 | Fok Seng Chong | Floor panel |
US11261608B2 (en) | 2014-11-27 | 2022-03-01 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US10731358B2 (en) | 2014-11-27 | 2020-08-04 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US10138636B2 (en) | 2014-11-27 | 2018-11-27 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US11083287B2 (en) | 2014-12-19 | 2021-08-10 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Panels comprising a mechanical locking device and an assembled product comprising the panels |
US10034541B2 (en) | 2014-12-19 | 2018-07-31 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Panels comprising a mechanical locking device and an assembled product comprising the panels |
US10506875B2 (en) | 2014-12-19 | 2019-12-17 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Panels comprising a mechanical locking device and an assembled product comprising the panels |
US9655442B2 (en) | 2014-12-19 | 2017-05-23 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Panels comprising a mechanical locking device and an assembled product comprising the panels |
US11174646B2 (en) | 2014-12-22 | 2021-11-16 | Ceraloc Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US11913236B2 (en) | 2014-12-22 | 2024-02-27 | Ceraloc Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US10570625B2 (en) | 2014-12-22 | 2020-02-25 | Ceraloc Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US10161139B2 (en) | 2014-12-22 | 2018-12-25 | Ceraloc Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US11274453B2 (en) | 2015-01-16 | 2022-03-15 | Ceraloc Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
US10538922B2 (en) | 2015-01-16 | 2020-01-21 | Ceraloc Innovation Ab | Mechanical locking system for floor panels |
EP3070229A1 (en) * | 2015-02-25 | 2016-09-21 | Yu-Yung Cheng | Disassemblable flooring panel |
US20160244978A1 (en) * | 2015-02-25 | 2016-08-25 | Yu-Yung CHENG | Dismountable flooring block |
US9605437B2 (en) * | 2015-02-25 | 2017-03-28 | Yu-Yung CHENG | Dismountable flooring block |
US10670064B2 (en) | 2015-04-21 | 2020-06-02 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Panel with a slider |
JP2018514288A (en) * | 2015-04-30 | 2018-06-07 | ベーリンゲ、イノベイション、アクチボラグVaelinge Innovation Ab | Panel with fastening device |
US10968936B2 (en) | 2015-04-30 | 2021-04-06 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Panel with a fastening device |
US10850487B2 (en) | 2015-07-24 | 2020-12-01 | Robert Clausi | Pressed laminate panel with a single layer elastomerick treated paper |
WO2017015749A1 (en) * | 2015-07-24 | 2017-02-02 | Robert Clausi | Pressed laminate panel with a single layer elastomeric treated paper |
US10448739B2 (en) | 2015-09-22 | 2019-10-22 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Panels comprising a mechanical locking device and an assembled product comprising the panels |
US11246415B2 (en) | 2015-09-22 | 2022-02-15 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Panels comprising a mechanical locking device and an assembled product comprising the panels |
US10669716B2 (en) | 2015-12-03 | 2020-06-02 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Panels comprising a mechanical locking device and an assembled product comprising the panels |
US9945121B2 (en) | 2015-12-03 | 2018-04-17 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Panels comprising a mechanical locking device and an assembled product comprising the panels |
US11098484B2 (en) | 2015-12-03 | 2021-08-24 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Panels comprising a mechanical locking device and an assembled product comprising the panels |
US10548397B2 (en) | 2016-01-26 | 2020-02-04 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Panels comprising a mechanical locking device and an assembled product comprising the panels |
US11445820B2 (en) | 2016-01-26 | 2022-09-20 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Panels comprising a mechanical locking device and an assembled product comprising the panels |
US11137007B2 (en) | 2016-02-04 | 2021-10-05 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Set of panels for an assembled product |
US10544818B2 (en) | 2016-02-04 | 2020-01-28 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Set of panels for an assembled product |
US10415613B2 (en) | 2016-02-09 | 2019-09-17 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Set of panel-shaped elements for a composed element |
US10486245B2 (en) | 2016-02-09 | 2019-11-26 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Element and method for providing dismantling groove |
US10830266B2 (en) | 2016-02-15 | 2020-11-10 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Method for forming a panel |
US10724564B2 (en) | 2016-10-27 | 2020-07-28 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Set of panels with a mechanical locking device |
US11506235B2 (en) | 2017-05-15 | 2022-11-22 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Elements and a locking device for an assembled product |
US11272783B2 (en) | 2017-12-22 | 2022-03-15 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Set of panels |
US11371542B2 (en) | 2017-12-22 | 2022-06-28 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Set of panels |
US10941578B2 (en) | 2018-01-10 | 2021-03-09 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Subfloor joint |
US10736416B2 (en) | 2018-03-23 | 2020-08-11 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Panels comprising a mechanical locking device and an assembled product comprising the panels |
US11933335B2 (en) | 2018-04-18 | 2024-03-19 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Symmetric tongue and T-cross |
US11076691B2 (en) | 2018-04-18 | 2021-08-03 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Set of panels with a mechanical locking device |
US11536307B2 (en) | 2018-04-18 | 2022-12-27 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Symmetric tongue and t-cross |
US11703072B2 (en) | 2018-04-18 | 2023-07-18 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Set of panels with a mechanical locking device |
US11448252B2 (en) | 2018-04-18 | 2022-09-20 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Set of panels with a mechanical locking device |
US11614114B2 (en) | 2018-04-19 | 2023-03-28 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Panels for an assembled product |
US11445819B2 (en) | 2018-08-30 | 2022-09-20 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Set of panels with a mechanical locking device |
CN113396263A (en) * | 2018-12-05 | 2021-09-14 | 瓦林格创新股份有限公司 | Sub-floor joint |
WO2020117117A1 (en) * | 2018-12-05 | 2020-06-11 | Välinge Innovation AB | Subfloor joint |
US11578495B2 (en) | 2018-12-05 | 2023-02-14 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Subfloor joint |
US11060302B2 (en) | 2019-01-10 | 2021-07-13 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Unlocking system for panels |
US11781324B2 (en) | 2019-01-10 | 2023-10-10 | Välinge Innovation AB | Unlocking system for panels |
WO2021144613A1 (en) * | 2020-01-16 | 2021-07-22 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Reversible floor covering element |
WO2021148900A1 (en) * | 2020-01-22 | 2021-07-29 | Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl | Panel comprising coupling parts |
US11702844B2 (en) * | 2020-06-05 | 2023-07-18 | Valinge Innovation Ab | Building panels comprising a locking device |
US20210381251A1 (en) * | 2020-06-05 | 2021-12-09 | Välinge Innovation AB | Building panels comprising a locking device |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
CN102239301A (en) | 2011-11-09 |
WO2010042182A1 (en) | 2010-04-15 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20100083603A1 (en) | Flooring panel with first and second decorative surfaces | |
US20230349410A1 (en) | Piece of furniture | |
JP5502171B2 (en) | Mechanical locking of the floor panel | |
RU2585712C2 (en) | Adhesiveless body | |
US20070130872A1 (en) | Wide width lock and fold laminate | |
US8898988B2 (en) | Mechanical locking system for floor panels | |
JP6139661B2 (en) | Floating floor system, floor panel, and installation method thereof | |
CN110259027B (en) | Building panel with mechanical locking system | |
SK15572002A3 (en) | A flooring material comprising sheet-shaped floor elements which are joined by means of joining members | |
JP6005154B2 (en) | Mechanical locking system for floor panels | |
US7775010B2 (en) | Slab bolster coupling | |
CA2656920C (en) | Locking system comprising a combination lock for panels | |
US20060185287A1 (en) | Portable floor and method of manufacture and installation | |
US20010021432A1 (en) | Panel, particularly a floor panel | |
EP1669512A3 (en) | Panel and fastening system for panels | |
KR20070080240A (en) | Device for joining parquet-type plaques or pieces | |
CN101368440A (en) | Flooring system | |
US11098741B2 (en) | Double connector for butt-joining two parts | |
US7322770B2 (en) | Joint arrangement for demountable structure | |
US20050221047A1 (en) | Panel element comprising a connection system | |
US20220112728A1 (en) | Panel and Floor Covering Comprising the Same | |
JP4367373B2 (en) | Flooring joint structure | |
JP4543285B2 (en) | Mall material fixture | |
US7064951B2 (en) | Space effective structure and method for retaining printed circuit boards within a housing | |
CN210395986U (en) | Mosaic fishbone parquet splicing structure |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: ARMSTRONG WORLD INDUSTRIES, INC.,PENNSYLVANIA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:GOODWIN, MILTON W.;REEL/FRAME:023393/0442 Effective date: 20091002 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |