Set of building panels comprising locking means

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a set of building panels comprising locking means for locking a first edge portion (1a) of a first panel (1) to a second edge portion (2b) of a second panel (2). The locking device comprises a locking element (3) extending upwardly from a lower strip (4) provided in the first edge portion, and a locking member (5) extending downwardly from an upper strip (6) provided in the second edge portion, where the locking element and the locking member are configured to cooperate for horizontal locking. The locking device further comprises a projection (7) and a groove (8) configured to cooperate for vertical locking. A vertically arranged fourth edge portion of the second panel includes a tongue configured to cooperate with a tongue receiving groove of an adjacent panel for vertical locking. The protrusion extends on the inside of the tongue in a direction along the second edge portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to a set of building panels, such as floor panels or wall panels, comprising a locking device. More particularly, edge portions of adjacent panels in the set are configured to be interconnected by relative substantially vertical displacement of the panels towards each other. Background Art

[0002] For example, the folding locking system disclosed in WO 2007 / 015669 revolutionized the flooring industry by providing a fast, time-saving, and easy single-action installation method. By using a single flexible tongue to vertically lock adjacent floor panels, this locking system can provide secure interlocking of floor panels for a variety of panel material choices and specifications.

[0003] For certain applications or material choices, such as luxury vinyl tiles (LVT tiles), stone plastic (polymer) composite panels or solid polymer core panels (SPC panels), or expanded polymer core panels (EPC panels) (also known as waterproof core panels or wood plastic composite panels (WPC panels), it may be advantageous to use a locking system in which the tongue for vertical locking is integrally formed with the floor panel. Such a locking system has been described in the publication WO 2018 / 063047 and can provide secure panel locking as well as quick and easy panel installation.

[0004] WO 2019 / 145521 discloses a fastening system for floor panels, comprising a rigid, non-elastic female coupling recess formed in a first floor panel, wherein the female coupling recess is adapted to receive a resilient male coupling tongue protruding from an adjacent second floor panel in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the main floor surface along which the floor panels are laid. The fastening system includes a resilient groove for facilitating resilient movement in the interlocking engagement of a vertical snap-fit fastening.

[0005] However, the design of some known joining systems can make it difficult to ensure correct positioning of the joined panels. This can be particularly problematic when the panels contain thermoplastic materials (e.g., PVC) and a large amount of mineral fillers, resulting in a rigid panel (e.g., SPC panels), or when the panels include an HDF core. Furthermore, the robustness of known joining systems can be unsatisfactory, at least for certain applications, such as panels with an HDF core. Summary of the Invention

[0006] It is therefore an object of at least some embodiments of the present disclosure to provide a set of building panels, such as floor panels, whose joining is more controllable.

[0007] It is another object of at least certain embodiments of the present disclosure to provide a set of building panels, such as floor panels, having increased vertical locking strength.

[0008] These and other objects and advantages, which will be apparent from the description, have been achieved through the various aspects, embodiments and examples described below.

[0009] According to the disclosure herein, a set of building panels, such as floor panels, is provided, comprising a first panel, a second panel, and a locking device for locking a first edge portion of the first panel to a second edge portion of the second panel. The first edge portion and the second edge portion are configured to be connected to each other by relative, substantially vertical displacement of the first panel and the second panel toward / against each other. The locking device comprises a locking element extending upwardly from a lower strip provided in the first edge portion, and a locking member extending downwardly from an upper strip provided in the second edge portion, wherein the locking element and the locking member are configured to cooperate for horizontally locking the first edge portion and the second edge portion. The locking device also comprises a protrusion and a groove arranged in the first edge portion and the second edge portion, wherein the protrusion and the groove are configured to cooperate for vertically locking the first edge portion and the second edge portion.

[0010] Generally speaking, herein, cooperating surfaces, members, or elements, etc., can cooperate by direct engagement or indirect engagement. Examples of such cooperating surfaces or elements include the upper cooperating surfaces of a protrusion and a groove, the inner portion of a locking element and a locking member, the overlapping cooperating surfaces of a shelf portion and an overlapping portion, the upper portion of a first edge portion and a second edge portion, etc. In any of the embodiments described herein, a sealant, such as wax or adhesive, can be disposed between the cooperating surfaces, thereby providing an example of indirect engagement.

[0011] The relative substantially vertical displacement preferably comprises a folding displacement, or equivalently, a scissor-type displacement (so-called downward folding), wherein the second edge portion is gradually vertically displaced towards the first edge portion along the longitudinal extension of the first and second edge portions. Thereby, the first edge portion and the second edge portion can be partially locked in the first side sections of the first and second edge portions, while the second edge portion can be arranged at a certain angle relative to the first edge portion in the second side section. Thereafter, the first edge portion and the second edge portion can also be partially locked in the second side section by further vertically displacing the second edge portion against the first edge portion at the second side section towards a smaller angle until the front faces of the first panel and the second panel are arranged substantially along the same horizontal plane. Preferably, the first edge portion and the second edge portion are locked to each other by means of a snap-fit connection, for example, wherein the protrusion snaps into the groove.

[0012] The protrusion may protrude outwardly from the second edge portion, preferably horizontally, and the groove may be arranged in the first edge portion.

[0013] The fourth vertically arranged edge portion of the second panel may comprise a further locking device comprising a tongue configured to cooperate with a tongue receiving groove / tongue groove of an adjacent panel for vertical locking. Alternatively or additionally, the fourth vertically arranged edge portion of the second panel may comprise a further locking device comprising a further locking groove configured to cooperate with a further locking element provided on a further strip of the adjacent panel for horizontal locking.

[0014] The protrusion may extend on the inside of the tongue in the direction along the second edge portion, for example, on the inside of the tongue tip. This can be implemented in the locked and / or unlocked state of the first and second panels. By extending on the inside of the tongue, the longitudinal outermost portion of the protrusion may extend on the inside of the tongue in the direction along the second edge portion, for example, on the inside of the tongue tip. For example, the longitudinal outermost portion of the protrusion may be located longitudinally inside the longitudinal end of the second edge portion, wherein the longitudinal end of the second edge portion is preferably defined by the tongue tip. Thus, at least one section of the protrusion may be missing from the corner portion where the second and fourth edge portions of the second panel meet. Therefore, the first and second edge portions can be connected to each other in a more controllable manner by means of folding displacement. In certain embodiments, this configuration may even be necessary. In addition, this configuration may be particularly useful, or sometimes even necessary, when the contact connection position and / or locked connection position (described elsewhere herein) of the panel is achieved in the corner portion of the second panel.

[0015] The longitudinally outermost part of the protrusion may be located longitudinally inwardly of the entire tongue.

[0016] The protrusion, preferably a longitudinally outermost portion of the protrusion, may extend inside the further locking groove in a direction along the second edge portion, eg be located longitudinally inside the further locking groove.

[0017] The second edge portion may comprise side walls, preferably vertical side walls, such that a corner portion of the second panel, where the second edge portion and the fourth edge portion meet, lacks a protrusion.

[0018] The protrusion may be arranged vertically below the tongue, for example below a bottom surface of the tongue.

[0019] However, in some embodiments, the protrusion may protrude outwardly from the first edge portion, preferably horizontally, and the groove may be arranged in the second edge portion.

[0020] The protrusion may extend longitudinally along the second edge portion.In this context, generally speaking, the protrusion may be formed integrally with the second edge portion, ie as a single piece.

[0021] The locking member may be elastic so that, during joining of the edge portions, the locking member may bend, preferably outwardly.

[0022] The first panel and the second panel can be configured to be in contact connection position during connection, in which the upper part of the first edge portion and the second edge portion cooperates with each other, and the projection is located vertically above the groove. Preferably, in the contact connection position, the upper part of the second edge portion cooperates with the uppermost part of the first edge portion. Thus, before the projection enters the groove during connection, the upper part of the panel (such as the upper part of the short side portion) can be basically horizontally aligned, which can enhance the control of the assembly of the panel and simplify the assembly of the panel. This is particularly advantageous for the panel that is difficult to shift along its vertically arranged edge portion (such as the long side portion) when partially connected to each other. When the relative angle between the panel is small (such as less than the coupling angle, the coupling angle can be such as 20 °, such as 10 ° or 8 °) and / or at least two pairs of contact surfaces of the vertically arranged edge portion cooperate with each other, this displacement problem may occur under the partially connected state. For contact surfaces with high surface roughness, such as those available in SPC panels, it is possible to obtain large friction forces during joining even if only two pairs of contact surfaces cooperate with each other.

[0023] The first and second panels can be configured to be in a locked, coupled position during coupling, in which the upper portions of the first and second edge portions cooperate with each other, while the locking element and the locking member, preferably the inner portions of the locking element and the locking member, cooperate with each other. Preferably, in the contact coupling position, the upper portion of the second edge portion cooperates with the uppermost portion of the first edge portion. This allows the first and second edge portions to be positioned horizontally as described above, while offsetting or even preventing displacement of the second panel along a vertically arranged edge portion (e.g., a long side portion).

[0024] The inner portion of the locking element may include a chamfer. This makes assembly of the panel more controllable and / or simplified. The chamfer can serve as a guide surface. Furthermore, the bending of the locking member can be more controllable and easier to guide.

[0025] The locking element may be configured to be arranged in a locking groove provided in the second edge portion.Alternatively or additionally, the locking member may be configured to be arranged in a locking cavity provided in the first edge portion.

[0026] The protrusion may be arranged below the innermost portion of the locking groove. Thus, the protrusion may be more flexibly displaced during connection. Preferably, the protrusion is arranged on the elastic locking member.

[0027] The depth of the locking groove can increase in a direction outward from the second edge portion, preferably toward its outermost portion. This can reinforce the locking groove while preferably maintaining a certain degree of elasticity in the locking member. Furthermore, the panels can be made stronger at their joints, thereby performing better in castor chair tests. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the tendency of the upper strip to bow upward can be counteracted, for example, compared to a locking groove of constant depth (whose depth corresponds to the maximum depth of the locking groove of increasing depth).

[0028] The locking cavity may include a recess for accommodating the locking member (e.g., a portion thereof) during coupling of the first and second edge portions. Thus, the locking member may bend outwardly from the second edge portion and into the recess during coupling. Furthermore, the elasticity of the lower strap may also be enhanced.

[0029] In the locked state of the first panel and the second panel, a gap may exist between the locking member and the bottom portion of the locking cavity. Thus, vertical locking can be provided by at least two pairs of contact surfaces, and the manufacture of the locking device is simplified.

[0030] In some embodiments, the locking member can cooperate with the bottom portion of the locking cavity in the locked state of the first panel and the second panel. Thus, an improved vertical locking using at least three pairs of contact surfaces can be provided. Moreover, a more stable locking state can also be provided.

[0031] The lower strip may be elastic so that it can bend downwardly during the joining of the first and second edge portions. For example, the locking element may bend downwardly when the panel is arranged on a cushioning element (e.g., foam) provided on a subfloor, or when the panel includes pre-attached cushioning components.

[0032] The ratio between the extension length of the lower strip and the panel thickness of the first panel (e.g. the maximum panel thickness) may be in the range of 1:2.5 to 1.8: 1, preferably 1:1.8 to 1.8: 1 or 1:1.4 to 1.4: 1. This may provide a more resilient lower strip, preferably while reducing the risk of damage (e.g. cracking) to the lower strip.

[0033] In the locked state of the first and second panels, the protrusion and the groove may cooperate at their upper cooperating surfaces.Preferably, the lower surfaces of the protrusion and the groove are at least partially (eg completely) separated from each other.

[0034] The upper cooperating surfaces of the protrusions and / or grooves can form a locking angle of 0°-60° or 0°-45°, preferably 10°-50°, for example 10°-45° or 15°-35°, relative to a second horizontal direction extending parallel to the front and / or back surfaces of the panel. A smaller locking angle can increase vertical locking strength. Depending on the specific application, the upper cooperating surfaces can be substantially parallel or non-parallel to each other.

[0035] The upper side portions of the first edge portion and the second edge portion may respectively include a shelf portion and an overlapping portion, the shelf portion and the overlapping portion being configured to cooperate with each other at overlapping cooperation surfaces. Thereby, better sealing of the locking device can be provided.

[0036] The shelf portion may include a shelf recess for receiving at least a portion of the protrusion during coupling of the first edge portion and the second edge portion. In at least some embodiments, this may enable any of the contact coupling positions or locked coupling positions disclosed herein.

[0037] The front of the first and / or second panel can include a bevel. Alternatively or additionally, the upper side portion of the second edge portion can include a lower bevel. For example, when the edge of the front is sharp, the bevel and / or lower bevel can, for example, protect the edge of the front by reducing the risk of the edge being sheared. In addition, the lower bevel can be used as a guide surface. In some embodiments, for example, when the core of the panel comprises a thermoplastic material (such as PVC) and an inorganic filler, the bevel can serve to hide the defects of the locked panel. In fact, in some cases, for example, due to the panel bearing a large load, the resilience of the panel is too strong, which may cause the locking ability of the locking device to be impaired. Moreover, the front of the panel may not be fully aligned in the vertical and / or horizontal direction. The bevel can at least hide such defects to a certain extent, for example, by creating repeated visual changes at the joint of the group.

[0038] The second edge portion may comprise a calibration groove. This may make it easier to assemble panels of different thicknesses.

[0039] The first edge portion and the second edge portion may be short side portions.

[0040] The horizontal locking may also be provided by upper portions (preferably including the uppermost portion) of the first and second edge portions cooperating with each other.

[0041] The core of the first panel and the second panel may comprise a thermoplastic material, preferably polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and an inorganic filler. In preferred embodiments, the core may comprise 20-40 wt% of a thermoplastic material, such as PVC, and 50-80 wt% of an inorganic filler. The inorganic filler may be a mineral material, such as calcium carbonate (CaCO 3 ), limestone (such as chalk), talc, fly ash, barium sulfate (BaSO 4 ), magnesium oxide (MgO), magnesium chloride (such as MgCl 2 ) and / or magnesium sulfate (such as MgSO 4 ), or stone (such as stone powder). In addition, other types of fillers are contemplated herein, such as organic fillers, for example, wood materials (such as wood fibers or sawdust), bamboo, or rice husks.

[0042] In some embodiments, the thermoplastic material may include PVC. In some embodiments, the thermoplastic material may include PVC, polyester, polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyacrylate, methacrylate, polycarbonate (PC), polyvinyl butyral (PVB), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the thermoplastic material may be a bioplastic material.

[0043] In some embodiments, the core of the first and second panels may comprise a thermosetting resin, preferably a polyurethane (PU), epoxy resin, or melamine-formaldehyde resin. Preferably, the core comprises a filler, such as an inorganic and / or organic filler. Embodiments of the filler, such as its material and concentration, may be similar to those described herein for fillers in thermoplastic materials, and reference may be made to these embodiments.

[0044] The content of plasticizer in the core may be less than 5 wt%, preferably less than 3 wt% or less than 1 wt%. The modulus of elasticity (or Young's modulus E) of the core and / or panel may be 1-10 GPa, for example 2-8 GPa, preferably measured according to ISO 178:2010 / A1:2013. For example, this may provide a rigid core.

[0045] The core can be dense without foaming. However, in some embodiments, the core can be foamed / foamed. Preferably, the foaming material can be incorporated into the thermoplastic material by means of a blowing agent or a foaming agent. Herein, in general, the core can be formed, for example, by extrusion.

[0046] The core can be formed of one or more layers. For example, the core can include two or three layers, using an AB, ABA, or ABC layer arrangement. Here, the same letter (A) and different letters (A, B, or C) represent layers having substantially the same and different material compositions, respectively. For example, at least two layers can be attached to each other (e.g., laminated), or at least two layers can be adhesive layers bonded to each other by an adhesive. In some examples, at least two layers can be coextruded.

[0047] Other core types are also contemplated herein. In some examples, the core may include or may be a wood-based core, such as high-density fiberboard (HDF board), medium-density fiberboard (MDF board), or plywood. In some examples, the core may include polyurethane (PUR) and / or a thermosetting resin, and optionally MgO.

[0048] In general, one, several, or even all of the following dimensions are preferred, but not limited to. The panel thickness (e.g., maximum panel thickness) can be 3.5-6.0 mm, preferably 4.0-5.5 mm. The thickness (preferably maximum thickness) of the lower strip inside the locking element can be 0.8-3.0 mm. The horizontal extension length of the protrusion can be 0.08-1.0 mm. The depth (preferably maximum depth) of the locking groove can be 1.5-4.0 mm. The width (preferably maximum width) of the locking element and / or locking member can be 1.0-3.0 mm.

[0049] Generally speaking, all terms used herein, such as those used in the claims and in the various clauses of the following Detailed Description, should be interpreted according to their ordinary meaning in the technical field, unless expressly defined otherwise. All references to "a / an / the / the [element, device, component, mechanism, step, etc.]" should be interpreted as referring to at least one instance of the element, device, component, mechanism, step, etc., unless expressly stated otherwise. References to one or more elements in "at least one element" may be referred to simply as "element." BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0050] The present disclosure will be described in more detail below in conjunction with exemplary embodiments and with reference to the accompanying exemplary drawings, in which:

[0051] Figures 1a-1c In cross-sectional side view ( Figure 1b ) and enlarged side view ( Figure 1c ) shows an embodiment of a first panel and a second panel in a locked state and shows an embodiment of these panels during joining of their edge portions in a cross-sectional side view ( Figure 1a ).

[0052] Figure 1dOne embodiment of panel edge portion joining is shown in a cross-sectional side view.

[0053] Figure 2a-2b One embodiment of the joining of the edge portions of the first and second panels is shown in a cross-sectional side view ( Figure 2a ) and those panels that are in a locked state ( Figure 2b ).

[0054] Figure 2c One embodiment of locked edge portions of a first panel and a second panel is shown in a cross-sectional side view.

[0055] Figures 3a-3c Various embodiments of locked edge portions of a first panel and a second panel are shown in cross-sectional side view.

[0056] Figure 4a-4b One embodiment of the joining of the edge portions of the first and second panels is shown in a cross-sectional side view ( Figure 4a ) and those panels that are in a locked state ( Figure 4b ).

[0057] Figure 4c One embodiment of locked edge portions of a first panel and a second panel is shown in a cross-sectional side view.

[0058] Figures 5a-5c Various embodiments of locked edge portions of a first panel and a second panel are shown in cross-sectional side view.

[0059] Figures 6a-6c Take a top view ( Figure 6a )、Side view( Figure 6b ) and the front view ( Figure 6c ) shows an embodiment of the first or second panel.

[0060] Figures 7a-7b In perspective ( Figure 7a ) and cross-sectional elevation KK( Figure 7b ) shows an embodiment of panels being assembled to each other.

[0061] Figures 7c-7d An embodiment of a corner portion of a first panel or a second panel is shown in a perspective view.

[0062] Figures 8a-8b In perspective ( Figure 8a ) and side view ( Figure 8b ) shows one embodiment of panels being assembled to each other.

[0063] Figures 8c-8f Two different embodiments (respectively Figures 8c-8dand Figures 8e-8f )of Figures 8a-8b Enlarged views Q1, Q2 of the corner parts of the panels in FIG.

[0064] Figures 9a-9b In perspective ( Figure 9a ) and side view ( Figure 9b ) shows an embodiment of a corner portion of the first panel or the second panel.

[0065] Figures 9c-9d One embodiment of the joining of the edge portions of the first and second panels is shown in a cross-sectional side view ( Figure 9a ) and those panels that are in a locked state ( Figure 9b ). DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0066] The following will refer to, for example Figures 1a-1d , 2a-2c, 3a-3c, 4a-4c, 5a-5c, 6a-6c, 7a-7d, 8a-8f, and 9a-9d describe various embodiments of a set of building panels (generally abbreviated herein as "panels"), such as floor panels. The set of panels comprises a first panel 1 and a second panel 2, each comprising a first edge portion 1a and an adjacent second edge portion 2b, and locking means for vertical and horizontal locking, preferably mechanical locking means. Preferably, the panels disclosed herein are substantially identical. Furthermore, these panels may be floor panels for installing floor coverings on a subfloor 30, but wall panels for installing wall cladding on a substructure are also contemplated. The panels 1 and 2 comprise front faces 1f, 2f and back faces 1g, 2g, respectively, preferably extending in a first horizontal direction X and a perpendicular second horizontal direction Y. For example, the longitudinal extensions of the first edge portion 1a and the second edge portion 2b may extend in the first horizontal direction X. A normal N to the main planes M1, M2 extending along the front face 1f, 2f and / or back face 1g, 2g defines a vertical direction Z. The vertical direction Z may be parallel to the thickness direction of the panels 1, 2. Furthermore, the widths WE, WM, WR, WP, WG specified herein may extend along a second horizontal direction Y.

[0067] The first edge portion 1a and the second edge portion 2b are configured to be joined to each other by a relative substantially vertical displacement (preferably comprising a folding displacement FD) of the first panel 1 and the second panel 2 towards / against each other. Examples of such joining are for example in Figure 1a 、 1d , 2a, 4a, 7a, 8a-8b, 8d, 8f and 9c. The panel installer can assemble panels 1 and 2 by simply applying pressure manually (e.g., with their thumbs). In particular, tools such as rubber hammers may not be required, but the possibility of using tools is not excluded.

[0068] The panels 1, 2 in the set may be rectangular. Preferably, the first edge portion 1a and the second edge portion 2b are short side portions. Obviously, the panels 1, 2 may also include opposite short side portions 1b, 2a, such as Figure 6a-6b , 7a and 8a-8b. The panels 1, 2 may further comprise vertically arranged edge portions in the form of third edge portions 1c, 2c and fourth edge portions 1d, 2d, which are preferably long side portions, e.g. Figures 6a-6c For example, the longitudinal extensions of the third edge portion and the fourth edge portion may extend along the second horizontal direction Y.

[0069] The set of panels may include additional panels, such as a plurality of panels. Figure 7a-7b As shown, the set of panels may comprise a third panel 1 ' to which the panels 1 , 2 may be assembled, for example along a third edge portion 1 c'.

[0070] The fourth edge portion 1d, 2d may comprise further locking means configured to couple in an angled manner with a vertically arranged edge portion 1c' (preferably a long side portion) of a third panel 1' arranged on the sub-floor 30, e.g. Figures 7a-7b As shown, or as shown in WO 2021 / 058137, page 6, line 26 to page 7, line 17 and Figures 3 and Figure 4a The third edge portion 1c' can be locked horizontally to an adjacent fourth edge portion 1d and / or 2d by means of a further locking element 25 provided on a further strip 29 cooperating with a further locking groove 26, and vertically to an adjacent fourth edge portion 1d and / or 2d by means of a cooperating tongue 27 and tongue receiving groove 28, see Figure 6c and 7b . A further strip 29 may protrude horizontally from a lower part of the third edge portion 1c', and a further locking groove 26 may be provided in the fourth edge portion 1d, 2d, preferably opening downwards. Furthermore, a tongue 27 and a tongue receiving groove 28 may be provided in the fourth edge portion 1d, 2d and the third edge portion 1c', respectively. Optionally, the further locking means may further comprise an auxiliary tongue 39 and an auxiliary tongue receiving groove 40, respectively, in the third edge portion 1c' and the fourth edge portion 1d, 2d, for vertical locking, see Figure 6c and Figures 7a-7b Obviously, the third edge portion 1c, 2c of the panels 1, 2 may comprise further locking means similar to the described further locking means in the third edge portion 1c'.

[0071] It is emphasized that embodiments are encompassed herein, mutatis mutandis, in which the opposing edge portions 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b are long portions and the opposing edge portions 1c, 2c, 1d, 2d are short portions. In further embodiments, the panels may be square.

[0072] In a number of non-limiting examples, the panel thickness T (eg, maximum panel thickness) of any panel 1, 2, 1' herein may be 3.5-6.0 mm, preferably 4.0-5.5 mm. Preferably, the panel thickness T is determined without including the cushioning element 31 or cushioning member 32.

[0073] The panels 1, 2, 1' herein may be building panels, such as floor panels or wall panels, and may be configured to be arranged on or connected to an underlying structure, such as a subfloor 30. In preferred embodiments, the panels are floor panels configured to be arranged on and along the subfloor 30 (preferably in a floating manner). The horizontal directions X, Y may extend parallel to the underlying structure (e.g., subfloor 30), while the vertical direction Z may extend perpendicular thereto, e.g., see Figure 6a 、 7a Thus, for a wall panel, horizontal directions X, Y may extend along the visible wall surface, with one direction (e.g., X) typically being perpendicular to the subfloor 30 in the environment in which the wall panels are assembled, and a vertical direction Z extending along the subfloor together with the other horizontal direction (e.g., Y).

[0074] The core 20 of the first panel 1 and the second panel 2, preferably the core 20 of all panels in the group, may comprise a thermoplastic material (e.g., PVC, polyester, PE, PP, PS, TPU, PET, polyacrylate, methacrylate, PC, PVB or PBT, or a combination thereof) and a filler (preferably an inorganic filler). In preferred embodiments, the core may comprise 20-40 wt% of a thermoplastic material (e.g., PVC) and 50-80 wt% of an inorganic filler (e.g., CaCO3, limestone, talc, fly ash, BaSO4, MgO or stone). The plasticizer content in the core 20 may be less than 5 wt%, preferably less than 3 wt% or less than 1 wt%, and may be in the range of 0.1-5 wt%, 0.5-5 wt% or 0.5-3 wt%. In general, the core 20 herein may be dense or foamed. In any embodiments herein, the core 20 and / or the panels 1 , 2 themselves may have an E modulus of 2-12 GPa, eg, 4-9 GPa or 3-7 GPa.

[0075] Any of the panels 1 , 2 herein may comprise a top layer 21 , such as a printed layer 21a and / or a wear layer 21b, applied to (eg bonded to) a core 20, see Figure 3a In some embodiments, the top layer 21 is formed by digitally printing the printed pattern P directly onto the core 20 or onto a printed pattern receiving layer disposed thereon and optionally applying a wear layer 21b thereon (see Figure 2c ). The print layer and / or wear layer in any of the above examples can be provided as a thermoplastic foil or film, for example comprising PVC. For example, the print layer and wear layer can have thicknesses of 0.02-0.20 mm and 0.05-1.0 mm, respectively. Alternatively or additionally, the wear layer can be a transparent coating, such as a UV-curable coating, a lacquer layer, or a hot-melt coating. Optionally, the top layer 21 can be embossed.

[0076] By means of the locking device, the panels 1 , 2 can be assembled to each other to obtain a locked state in which the first edge portion 1 a of the first panel 1 and the second edge portion 2 b of the second panel 2 are horizontally and vertically locked to each other.

[0077] The locking device includes a locking element 3 extending upward from a lower strip 4 disposed in the first edge portion 1a, and a locking member 5 extending downward from an upper strip 6 disposed in the second edge portion 2b. The lower strip 4 and the upper strip 6 may protrude horizontally outward from the lower and upper portions of the first and second edge portions 1a, 2b, respectively. In various non-limiting examples, the thickness TL (preferably the maximum thickness) of the lower strip 4 inside the locking element 3 may be 0.8-3.0 mm. The locking element 3 is configured to be disposed within a locking groove 9 disposed in the second edge portion 2b, while the locking member 5 is configured to be disposed within a locking cavity 10 disposed in the first edge portion 1a. The locking element 3 (e.g., its inner portion 3a) may extend vertically from the back surface 1g to a height HE. Furthermore, the locking member 5 (e.g., its inner portion 5a) may extend vertically to a height HM measured from the back surface 2g. HE may be greater than HM, thereby enabling horizontal locking. For example, HE>1.4·HM, such as HE>1.6·HM or HE>1.8·HM. A larger HE and / or a smaller HM allows the locking member 5 to cooperate with the locking element 3 at an earlier stage of coupling. In a number of non-limiting examples, the height HE can be 1.5-4.0 mm, and / or the height HM can be 1.0-3.0 mm.

[0078] Alternatively or additionally, the locking member 5 may extend from the front face 2f over more than half the panel thickness T, such as over 0.6 times or even over 0.7 times the panel thickness T.

[0079] In some embodiments, the thickness TL may be less than 2 mm, for example, 0.8 mm to 2 mm. Thus, the lower strip 4 may be more elastic.

[0080] It will be appreciated that the locking element 3, locking member 5, locking groove 9 and locking cavity 10 may extend along the first edge portion 1a and the second edge portion 2b, eg along the first horizontal direction X, eg along substantially the entire first and second edge portions.

[0081] The upper side portion 1e of the first edge portion 1a may be configured to cooperate (e.g., engage) with the upper side portion 2e of the second edge portion 2b in the locked state of the panels 1, 2. For example, the upper side portions 1e, 2e may comprise joining surfaces 18, 19 which extend substantially vertically (e.g., see Figures 1a-1d , 2a-2c, 3a-3c, 4a-4c, 5a, 5c, 6b, 8c-8f and 9a-9d) or at a certain angle relative to the vertical direction Z Extension (see, for example, Figure 5b ). In the locked state, the vertical plane V0 may extend between the upper parts 1e, 2e, for example along the connecting surfaces 18, 19 and / or along their uppermost parts 1h, 2h. The upper parts 1e, 2e may cooperate at least along these uppermost parts 1h, 2h, for example along substantially the entire connecting surfaces 18, 19. In a number of non-limiting examples, the upper parts 1e, 2e and / or the connecting surfaces 18, 19 may be located in the upper half of the respective panels 1, 2, preferably in the upper third, and more preferably in the upper quarter.

[0082] In some embodiments, the upper portion 1e may include a shelf portion 11 and the upper portion 2e may include an overlap portion 12, e.g., see Figures 1a-1d , 2a-2c, 3a-3c, 4a-4c, 5a-5b, 6b, 8c-8f and 9a-9d. The overlapping cooperation surfaces 11a, 12a of the shelf portion 11 and the overlapping portion 12 can be configured to cooperate with each other (e.g., engage). The overlapping cooperation surface 12a can preferably extend substantially horizontally at a distance OC from the front 2f. In multiple non-limiting examples, OC can be 0.8-2.0 mm. For example, the overlapping cooperation surfaces 11a, 12a can extend horizontally by approximately 0.1-1.0 mm. The connecting surface 19 can extend above the shelf portion 11, for example, above the cooperation surface 11a, and the connecting surface 18 can, for example, extend along the overlapping portion 12 above the cooperation surface 12a.

[0083] It should be emphasized that overlapping the upper side portions 1e, 2e is optional and that in some embodiments the upper side portions 1e, 2e (eg the connecting surfaces 18, 19) may extend substantially vertically, see for example Figure 5c.

[0084] The locking element 3 and the locking member 5 are configured to cooperate with each other (e.g., engage) to horizontally lock the first edge portion 1a and the second edge portion 2b. Preferably, the inner portions 3a and 5a cooperate with each other (e.g., engage) in the locked state. Alternatively, horizontal locking can also be achieved by the upper portions 1e and 2e cooperating with each other (e.g., engaging).

[0085] The locking device further comprises a protrusion 7 and a groove 8 arranged in the first edge portion 1a and the second edge portion 2b. The protrusion 7 may be formed integrally with the second edge portion 2b (e.g. with the core 20). Furthermore, the protrusion 7 may protrude outwardly from the second edge portion 2b, preferably horizontally, and the groove 8 may be arranged in the first edge portion 1a. For example, the protrusion may be substantially spherical, but other shapes, such as substantially triangular, substantially rectangular or substantially polygonal, are equally conceivable. In a number of non-limiting examples, the width WP of the protrusion 7 herein may be 0.08-1.0 mm. Preferably, WP is determined by a vertical plane V3 extending along the outer portion 5c of the locking member 5 (e.g. along its lowermost outer portion), see Figure 1c The protrusion 7 and the groove 8 may extend along the first edge portion 1 a and the second edge portion 2 b , eg along the first horizontal direction X, eg along substantially the entire first and second edge portions.

[0086] The protrusion 7 and the groove 8 are configured to cooperate with each other (e.g., engage) for vertically locking the first edge portion 1a and the second edge portion 2b. In the locked state, the upper cooperating surface 7a of the protrusion 7 can cooperate with the upper cooperating surface 8a of the groove 8. The upper cooperating surfaces 7a and / or 8a can be at least partially plane. The upper cooperating surfaces 7a and / or 8a (e.g., plane portions) can form a locking angle α of 0°-60° or 0°-45°, preferably 10°-50°, for example, 10°-45° or 15°-35° relative to the second horizontal direction Y. For example, in Figure 1c and 5a In the embodiment, the locking angles α are approximately 50° and approximately 30°, respectively.

[0087] The protrusion 7 , preferably its horizontally outermost portion, may be arranged horizontally inside the vertical plane V0 relative to the second panel 2 .

[0088] In the first example, the upper side cooperating surfaces 7a, 8a (for example, their respective locking angles α) are substantially parallel to each other. In the second example, the upper side cooperating surfaces 7a, 8a are not parallel to each other, preferably so that the locking angle α of the upper side cooperating surface 7a is smaller than the locking angle α of the upper side cooperating surface 8a. Thus, a vertical locking function can be provided in the horizontally deeper part of the groove 8. However, alternatively, the locking angle α of the upper side cooperating surface 8a can be smaller than the locking angle α of the upper side cooperating surface 7a. In either of the above two cases in the second example, the difference between the non-parallel upper side cooperating surfaces 7a, 8a (for example, the difference between their respective locking angles α) can be 1°-30°, preferably 2°-15°, and more preferably 3°-7°.

[0089] The groove 8 may be arranged between an upper lip 8c and a lower lip 8d provided above and below the groove 8, respectively. The upper lip 8c and the lower lip 8d may extend horizontally outside a vertical plane V1 extending along an innermost portion of the first edge portion 1a provided at or below the shelf portion 11, see Figure 1b 、 2a For example, the vertical plane V1 may extend along the innermost portion 10 a of the locking cavity 10 .

[0090] Preferably, in the locked state, the lower surface 7b of the protrusion 7 is at least partially (e.g. completely) separated from the lower surface 8b of the groove 8. Optionally, the locking device may further comprise overlapping cooperating surfaces 11a and 12a for vertically locking the first edge portion 1a and the second edge portion 2b.

[0091] In some embodiments herein, for example, Figures 1a-1d , 2a-2c, 3a-3c, 4a-4c, 5a-5c, 6a-6c, 7a-7d, 8a-8f and 9a-9d, the locking member 5 may be elastic so that it can bend, preferably outwardly relative to the second panel 2 (see Figure 1d and 2a ). The locking member 5 may bend outwards during cooperation with the locking element 3. Alternatively or additionally, the lower strip 4 may be elastic so that it may bend downwards during joining of the first edge portion 1a and the second edge portion 2b (see arrow B2).

[0092] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the elasticity of the locking member 5 can be achieved by means of a remaining groove portion 9c formed in the locked state of the locking groove 9. The top portion 3b of the locking element 3 and the upper wall 9a of the locking groove 9 can be separated from each other and can define the remaining groove portion 9c.

[0093] In some embodiments, for example, Figures 1a-1d, 2a-2c, 3a, 4a-4c, 5a-5c, 6b, 7c-7d, 8e-8f and 9a-9d, the depth DG of the locking groove 9 preferably increases from the second edge portion 2b outward (preferably toward the outermost portion of the second edge portion 2b) along the second horizontal direction Y. The upper wall 9a of the locking groove 9 can be inclined at a certain angle θ relative to the second horizontal direction Y. For example, the angle θ can be 20°-60°. In the first example, at least the central portion of the upper wall 9a (for example, substantially the entirety thereof) is planar. In the second example (for example, see Figure 3a The upper wall 9a is curved.

[0094] In various non-limiting examples, the depth DG of the locking groove 9 can be 1.5-4.0 mm. DG can be the maximum depth of the locking groove, for example, from the back surface 2g to the innermost portion 9b of the locking groove. The depth DG and the innermost portion 9b can be determined along the vertical direction Z. A horizontal plane HG can extend through the innermost portion 9b.

[0095] For example, Figures 1a-1d , 2a-2c, 4a-4c, 5a-5c, 6b, 7a-7d, 8e-8f and 9a-9d, the protrusion 7 may be arranged vertically below the innermost portion 9b. However, in certain embodiments, for example Figures 3a-3c As shown, the protrusion 7 may be arranged at and / or above the innermost portion 9b, whereby displacement of the protrusion during joining may be reduced.

[0096] The inner portion 3a and the top portion 3b of the locking element 3 may be at an angle relative to each other, for example substantially at right angles (see, for example, Figures 1a-1c ) or at an acute angle (see Figure 5b ). For example, the inner portions 3a, 5a can be flat. Thus, the inner portions 3a, 5a of the locking element 3 and the locking member 5 can be substantially parallel to the vertical direction Z, or can be at an angle φ. The inclined inner portions 3a, 5a can provide vertical locking of the edge portions 1a, 2b. For example, φ can be 1°-10°, such as 1°-5°. The upper portions 1e, 2e can also be inclined at an angle φ' relative to the vertical direction, preferably at the same angle φ. Thus, these inclined portions can be formed using a single tool.

[0097] Optionally, a chamfer 14 may be arranged in the inner portion 3a. The chamfer 14 may be planar and may form an angle δ with the second horizontal direction Y, see for example Figure 1c For example, the angle δ may be in the range of 30° to 50°, preferably 35° to 45°. Figure 2b-2cAs shown in , 3a-3b, 4a-4b, 5b-5c, 6b, 8d and 9c-9d, the chamfered portion 14 can be curved / arc-shaped, for example, at the vertex portion where the inner portion 3a and the top portion 3b meet, its radius is 0.1-0.8 mm.

[0098] For example, Figures 1a-1d As shown in Figures 2a-2c, 3b, 4a-4c, 5a-5c, 6b and 9c-9d, the locking cavity 10 may include a recess 17 for accommodating at least a portion of the locking member 5 during coupling of the first edge portion 1a and the second edge portion 2b. Figure 1d This type of connection is shown in which the locking member 5 is bent outwardly and enters the recess 17. Optionally, the lower strip 4 is also bent during connection. The recess 17 can be provided at the horizontal innermost portion of the lower strip 4, for example extending inwardly from a vertical plane V2 provided along the horizontal outermost portion of the lower lip 8d. For example, the width WR of the recess can be 0.1-1 mm, see Figure 1c .

[0099] The width WG of the bottom portion 10b of the locking cavity 10 (optionally including the recess 17) may substantially correspond to or may exceed the width WM of the locking member 5. The width WM (WG) may be the maximum width of the locking member 5 (bottom portion 10b).

[0100] In a number of non-limiting examples, a preferred maximum width WE, WM of the locking element 3 and / or the locking member 5 may be 1.0-4.0 mm, such as 1.5-3.0 mm.

[0101] The ratio between the extension length ES of the lower strip 4 and the panel thickness T of the first panel 1 may be in the range of 1:2.5 to 1.8:1, preferably 1:1.8 to 1.8:1 or 1:1.4 to 1.4:1. The extension length ES may be the extension length from the innermost portion 10a of the locking cavity 10 to the outermost portion 4a of the lower strip 4, see Figure 2a For example, the extension length ES may be the extension length from the vertical plane V1 . Optionally, the locking cavity 10 may include a recess 17 .

[0102] In some embodiments, the first panel 1 and the second panel 2 are configured to be in a contacting joined position during joining, wherein the upper portions 1e, 2e cooperate with each other (e.g. engage), and the protrusion 7 is located, preferably completely vertically above the groove 8, see e.g. Figure 1d 、 2aand 8d. For example, the connecting surfaces 18, 19 can cooperate with each other (e.g., engage). Preferably, in the contact connection position, the upper portion 2e cooperates with the uppermost portion 1h of the first edge portion 1b. The uppermost portion 1h can be provided in the area where the connecting surface 19 meets the front face 1f. For example, the protrusion 7 can be located vertically above the upper lip 8c. In some embodiments, in the contact connection position, the locking member 5 can be separated from the locking element 3. This Figure 2a 3c). Alternatively, as shown in the figure, the locking element 3 and the locking member 5 can further cooperate (e.g., engage) with each other to secure the first and second panels 1, 2 in a locked, coupled position. Preferably, the inner portions 3a and 5a cooperate with each other. This can counteract or even prevent displacement of the second panel 2 along the third or fourth edge portion 2c, 2d (e.g., in the second horizontal direction Y).

[0103] Preferably, in order to achieve the contact connection position and / or the locked connection position, HE is greater than HM+OC. If the panels 1, 2 comprise bevels 15, 16 (see below), the vertical extension BV of the bevels at the upper part 1e, 2e is negligible, so the HE value is preferably greater than HM+OC-BV, see Figure 2c .

[0104] In some embodiments, the shelf portion 11 may include a shelf recess 13 for receiving at least a portion of the protrusion 7 during joining of the first edge portion 1a and the second edge portion 2b, see e.g. Figures 1a-1d , 2a-2c, 3b (see dotted lines), 3c, 4a-4c, 5a-5b, 6b and 8d.

[0105] The shelf recess 13 may be defined by a recess wall 13a provided in the first edge portion 1a. The recess wall 13a may be formed within or above the upper lip 8c. The recess wall 13a may be in a variety of shapes. Figure 3b As shown by the dashed line in FIG, the recess wall 13a can be curved / curved. In some embodiments, the recess wall 13a can be substantially planar and can form an angle β with the vertical direction Z (see FIG. Figure 1c ). For example, β may be 5°-45°, such as 5°-25°. During the coupling, the inclined recess wall 13a may gradually shift the second edge portion 2b horizontally outward relative to the first edge portion 1a. The recess wall 13a may serve as a guide surface. Figures 2a-2c , 4a-4b, 5b, 6b and 8d, the recess wall 13a is substantially parallel to the vertical direction Z (so β=0°). As a result, in the initial stage of the connection, the upper parts 1e, 2e can maintain a substantially constant distance from each other, preferably cooperating with each other, until the upper lip 8c begins to exert pressure on the protrusion 7 and optionally pushes it outwards.

[0106] At least in certain embodiments, the shelf recess 13 may be required to achieve the contact coupling position and / or the locked coupling position. In fact, by means of the shelf recess 13, the upper parts 1e, 2e can be brought closer to each other in the initial stage of coupling.

[0107] The shelf recess 13 may extend below the overlapping mating surfaces 11a. In the locked state, the shelf recess 13 may be further defined by an upper wall segment 13c disposed inwardly of the overlapping mating surfaces 12a and / or an opposing recess wall 13b disposed in the second edge portion 2b (preferably below the overlapping portion 12). For example, the opposing recess wall 13b may be disposed substantially parallel to the vertical direction Z.

[0108] However, in some embodiments, the upper parts 1e, 2e may cooperate with each other only in the locked state and may be separated from each other at least in the initial stage of the coupling, see e.g. Figure 1a 、 4a and 9c.

[0109] Here, the locking member 5 can also be bent inwards relative to the second panel 2 (see arrow B3), see Figure 1a For example, the locking member 5 may bend inwardly when the protrusion 7 cooperates with the recess wall 13 a , preferably before the locking member 5 cooperates with the locking element 3 .

[0110] like Figure 2c 、 4a As shown in Figures 4a-4c, 5a-5c and 9c-9d, the front faces 1f, 2f of the first and / or second panels 1, 2 may include beveled surfaces 15, 16, which preferably extend between the front faces and the respective joining surfaces 18, 19. For example, any beveled surfaces 15, 16 herein may comprise substantially planar surfaces. Figure 4b It is shown that the inclined surfaces 15 and / or 16 can be arranged at an angle γ relative to the front surface 1f and / or 2f. For example, the angle γ can be 5°-50°, such as 15°-45°. However, in some embodiments, the inclined surfaces 15, 16 can also be curved surfaces.

[0111] As an alternative or in addition to the inclined surfaces 15, 16, Figure 1c and Figure 2c As shown by the dashed line, the upper portion 2e of the second edge portion 2b may include a lower slope 24. The lower slope 24 may be flat or curved, such as forming a radius. For example, the lower slope 24 may extend horizontally inward from the horizontally outermost portion of the upper portion 2e by 0.1-0.7 mm, such as 0.2-0.5 mm.

[0112] In any embodiment herein, in the locked state, there may be a gap S between the locking member 5 and the bottom portion 10b of the locking cavity 10, see for example Figure 2c The bottom portion 10b can be arranged in the lower strip 4 horizontally inside the locking element 3. For example, at least a major portion of the locking member 5 (preferably the entire distal portion 5b) can be separated from the bottom portion 10b. Thus, the gap S can extend from the inner portion 3a to the vertical plane V2 and optionally to the horizontal inside (relative to the first panel 1) of the outer portion 5c of the locking member 5, for example horizontally inside the vertical plane V3.

[0113] However, in some embodiments, such as Figure 1b-1c , 2b, 3a-3c, 4b-4c, 5a-5c and 9d, in the locked state, the locking member 5 can cooperate with the bottom part 10b, preferably engage therewith.

[0114] Thus, the vertical locking here can be provided by two pairs of contact surfaces C1, C2, which preferably correspond to the superimposed cooperating surfaces 11a, 12a and the upper cooperating surfaces 7a, 8a, and optionally an additional pair of contact surfaces C3, which preferably corresponds to the engagement between the locking member 5 and the bottom part 10b. Alternatively, the vertical locking here can be provided by two pairs of contact surfaces C2, C3, which preferably correspond to the engagement between the upper cooperating surfaces 7a, 8a and the locking member 5 and the bottom part 10b, see for example Figure 5c .

[0115] Optionally, as described above, the cooperation between the inclined inner parts 3a, 5a may provide another pair of contact surfaces C4 for vertical locking, with or without a gap S, see Figure 5b .

[0116] The panels of the set may generally have different panel thicknesses T, which may require compensatory design of the locking device, especially for floor panels. For example, in any embodiment herein, the second edge portion 2b may comprise a calibration groove 22, which is preferably arranged horizontally inside the locking groove 9, see Figure 2c The calibration groove 22 can be provided in the back surface 2g and can be open to the locking groove 9. Furthermore, the calibration groove can extend along the second edge portion 2b (e.g., along the first horizontal direction X), for example, along substantially the entire second edge portion 2b. Preferably, the second edge portion 2b is resilient so that it can bend downward toward the subfloor 30. The depth DC (preferably the maximum depth) of the calibration groove 22 can be less than 0.5 mm, preferably less than 0.3 mm, for example, 0.05-0.2 mm.

[0117] In some embodiments, as Figure 5b and Figures 4a-4c (including the corresponding dotted line, wherein it should be understood that the portion below the dotted line is as follows Figure 5b As shown (shown removed), the lower strip 4 may include an undercut 23, such as a flexure cut, which is preferably planar. The undercut may extend at an angle σ relative to the back face 1g and may have a horizontal extension length UC. For example, the UC / ES ratio may exceed 0.5, for example be 0.6-0.8. Furthermore, the undercut may extend along the first edge portion 1a (e.g. along the first horizontal direction X), for example along substantially the entire first edge portion 1a. The undercut 23 may increase the elasticity of the locking strip 4, thereby simplifying the downward bending of the lower strip 4 (see arrow B2). Figure 4c In the embodiment, the angle σ is approximately 0° and the inner part of the undercut preferably has a radius. Optionally, the lower strap 4 may be biased in the locked state, preferably so that it does not return to its unlocked position.

[0118] In some embodiments, as Figures 9c-9d As shown, the protrusion 7 can instead protrude outwardly from the first edge portion 1a, preferably horizontally, and the groove 8 can be arranged in the second edge portion 2b. For any embodiment described herein (wherein the protrusion 7 protrudes outwardly from the second edge portion 2b and the groove 8 is arranged in the first edge portion 1a, for example Figures 1a-1d , 2a-2c, 3a-3c, 4a-4c, 5a-5c, 6a-6c and 7a-7d), such a configuration is also contemplated. In fact, in some examples, such as Figure 9c As shown, a supplementary protrusion 7' and a supplementary groove 8' can be formed in the second edge portion 2b and the first edge portion 1a respectively below the groove 8 and the protrusion 7. For example, the supplementary groove 8' can be at least partially part of the recess 17, such as part of the common inner wall 17a.

[0119] The fourth edge portion 2d of the second panel 2 may be in an angled connection relative to the third edge portion 1c' of the third panel 1', wherein the edge portions 1c', 2d are partially connected to each other, preferably at the same time as the second edge portion 2b of the second panel 2 is connected to the first edge portion 1a of the first panel 1 arranged on the subfloor 30, see Figures 7a-7b Optionally, the third panel 1 ' and the first panel 1 have been locked to each other along their third edge portion 1c' and fourth edge portion 1d. Preferably, the edge portions 1c', 1d, 2d are long edge portions, while the edge portions 1a, 2b are short edge portions.

[0120] In the angled connection state, the relative angle RA between the front faces 2f, 1f' of the second panel 2 and the third panel 1' can be smaller than the coupling angle, which can be, for example, 20°, for example 10°, or sometimes even 8°. Alternatively or additionally, at least two pairs (for example three or four pairs) of contact surfaces D1, D2, D3, D4 of the further locking means in the edge portions 1c', 2d can cooperate with each other in the angled connection state. In the angled connection state, it may be difficult (sometimes even practically impossible) for the edge portions 1c', 2d to be displaced along one another, or in other words, it may be difficult for the edge portions 1a, 2b to be displaced relative to one another (preferably in the second horizontal direction Y). In fact, the frictional forces resulting from this interaction may become too great in the angled connection state. This may be particularly difficult for panels 1, 1', 2 that include a core 20 made of a thermoplastic material (for example PVC) and a high content (for example 50-80 wt%) of inorganic fillers.

[0121] When it is difficult to displace the edge portions 1c' and 2d along one another as described above, it is particularly advantageous to use locking means in the first edge portion 1a and the second edge portion 2b, which locking means allow a contact joining position and / or a locked joining position to be achieved. In fact, by aligning the upper portions 1e and 2e substantially horizontally (e.g. in the second direction Y) before the protrusion 7 enters the groove 8, less or even no displacement of the second panel 2 along the fourth edge portion 2d may be required to join the edge portions 1a and 2b.

[0122] For example, reference Figure 6b-6c , 7b, and 8c-8f, the first pair of contact surfaces D1 may correspond to the upper strip surface 29a and the bottom surface 27b of the tongue 27. The second pair of contact surfaces D2 may correspond to the guide surfaces 25a, 26a of the additional locking element 25 and the fourth edge portions 1d, 2d. For example, the guide surface 25a may be provided in the upper and / or inner portion of the additional locking element 25, while the guide surface 26a may be provided in the outer portion of the additional locking groove 26 and / or the inner portion of the tongue 27, or in an intermediate section therebetween. The third pair of contact surfaces D3 may correspond to the upper surface 27c of the tongue 27 and the upper surface 28c of the tongue-receiving groove 28. Optionally, when the additional locking device further includes a supplementary tongue 39 and a supplementary tongue-receiving groove 40, the fourth pair of contact surfaces D4 may correspond to the upper surface 39a of the tongue 39 and the upper surface 40a of the tongue-receiving groove 40.

[0123] Figures 8c-8d and Figures 8a-8bIn preferred embodiments, the projection 7 extends along the second edge portion 2b (e.g., along the first horizontal direction X) at an inner side of the tongue 27. For example, the longitudinally outermost portion 7d of the projection 7 along the second edge portion 2b may extend inside the tongue 27, for example, inside the tip 27a of the tongue 27. The longitudinal end of the second edge portion 2b may be defined by the tip 27a, and the longitudinally outermost portion 7d may be arranged longitudinally inside the longitudinal end of the second edge portion 2b. By means of the folding displacement FD, the second edge portion 2b is gradually vertically displaced along the edge portions 1a and 2b toward the first edge portion 1a, and a projection 7 extending inside the tongue 27 may be provided at the corner portion 33 where the second edge portion 2b and the fourth edge portion 2d of the second panel 2 meet. This may be necessary, for example, to provide cooperation between the upper portions 1e and 2e in the corner portion 33.

[0124] In some embodiments, and for example Figure 8c and 9a As shown, the longitudinally outermost portion 7d is located longitudinally inside the entire tongue 27 .

[0125] Preferably, if Figure 8c As shown, the longitudinally outermost portion 7d of the projection 7 extends inside the additional locking groove 26, for example, longitudinally inside the additional locking groove. For example, the longitudinally outermost portion 7d of the projection 7 may extend inside, for example, longitudinally inside, a corner cavity 34 (e.g., a cutout portion) formed in the corner portion 33. The corner cavity 34 may include at least the additional locking groove 26 in the corner portion 33. For example, when the additional locking means is formed in the fourth edge portion 1d, 2d, for example, by a rotating cutting tool (preferably a jumping action tool), the corner cavity 34 may be formed by removing core material from the corner portion 33.

[0126] The protrusion 7 (eg the upper cooperating surface 7a) may be arranged vertically below the tongue 27, for example vertically below the bottom surface 27b, see Figures 8c-8d As a result, the protrusion 7 extending inside the further locking groove 26 can be manufactured more easily. For example, when forming the further locking means of the fourth edge portion 1d, 2d by removing at least a part of the locking member 5 in the corner portion 33, the protrusion 7 can be removed at the same time.

[0127] This is similar to Figures 8e-8f as well as Figures 8a-8bIn contrast, these figures show that in some embodiments, the protrusion 7 (e.g., the longitudinally outermost portion 7d) can preferably extend along the entire second edge portion 2b to the corner portion 33, for example, to the tip 27a of the tongue 27. If so, the upper portions 1e, 2e can typically be separated from each other by means of the folding displacement FD during the initial stages of the connection, and sometimes even during the entire connection of the first and second edge portions 1a, 2b. The protrusion 7 (e.g., the lower surface 7b) can be arranged vertically above the bottom surface 27b of the tongue 27, for example, vertically above the further locking groove 26.

[0128] In view of the above, for example, Figures 8c-8d As described above, it is obvious that the vertical locking strength of the locking means in the second edge portions 1 b , 2 b may be reduced in the corner portion 33 , and may even disappear. Figures 9a-9b Another embodiment without such a vertical locking device is shown. For example, the second edge portion 1b, 2b may include a side wall 7c, preferably a vertical side wall 7c, so that there is no protrusion 7 at the corner portion 33. The protrusion 7 can be arranged in the inner part 38 of the second edge portion 1b, 2b on the inner side of the corner portion 33 and can extend, for example, in the first horizontal direction X to the further locking groove 26. In another example, the width WP at the corner portion 33 can be smaller than the width WP at the inner part 38, so that the vertical locking strength at the corner portion 33 is smaller, see Figures 8e-8f For example, the width WP may taper in the outward direction.

[0129] It should be noted that Figures 8c-8f The enlarged views Q1 , Q2 in 9a - 9b are equally possible for any panel herein, for example for the first panel 1 and / or the second panel 2 .

[0130] In some embodiments, the locking means provided in the first edge portion 1a and the second edge portion 2b in the form of short edge portions may not provide a satisfactory locking function, for example due to their excessive flexibility. This may occur, for example, when the elasticity of the panel in the area around the edge portions 1a, 2b is too great. Therefore, the locking means of the short edge portions may need to be supplemented by providing further horizontal locking means in the third edge portion 1c' and / or in the fourth edge portion 1d, 2d in the form of long edge portions. Preferably, the friction between the contact surfaces D1, D2, D3, D4 of the edge portions 1d, 2d, 1c' may be increased, see Figures 7a-7b Particularly high frictional forces can be achieved for contact surfaces with a high coefficient of friction and / or a high surface roughness, such as can be obtained in SPC panels.

[0131] In some embodiments, as Figure 7cAs shown, forming locking means in the second edge portion 1b, 2b and the third edge portion 1c, 2c may result in the formation of a tab 36 in the corner section 35 of the panel 1, 2. The tab 36 may be an extension of the locking member 5 and may be arranged outside the locking groove 9 in the second horizontal direction Y. For many applications, the tab 36 may be too weak and may break during assembly or packaging of the panel. Therefore, the tab 36 is preferably removed from the panel, for example by a rotating cutting device (preferably a jumping action tool) or by breaking, so that the corner section 35 is provided with a corner cavity 37, see Figure 7d For example, the tab 36 may be removed along the first horizontal direction X from the outer side of the inner surface 28 a and / or the lower surface 28 b of the tongue receiving groove 28 .

[0132] In some embodiments, as Figure 1d 、 2a As shown in Figures 7a and 7a, a cushioning element 31 (such as foam or cork) may be arranged between the panels 1, 2 and the sub-floor 30, and preferably in contact with the panels 1, 2 and the sub-floor 30.

[0133] In some embodiments, the panels 1, 2 of the set of panels may include a pre-attached bedding member 32, such as foam or cork, see e.g. Figures 6b-6c For example, the cushion member 32 can be bonded to the back surface 1g, 2g using an adhesive. The panel including the pre-attached cushion member 32 can be directly placed on the subfloor 30. Preferably, the cushion member 32 is attached to the panel 1 after the locking device is formed on the edge portions 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d of the panel 1. This allows the locking device to be formed more accurately.

[0134] By providing such a cushioning element 31 or cushioning member 32, the noise can be reduced at least to a certain extent and / or the comfort of the set of panels arranged on the subfloor 30 can be improved. The density p of the cushioning element 31 or cushioning member 32 U can be lower than the density ρ of the core 20 of the panels 1, 2 C 80%, optionally configured to be arranged in contact therewith.

[0135] Either the cushioning element 31 or the cushioning member 32 may be or may include PS foam (e.g., extruded PS (XPS)), PE foam (e.g., expanded PE (EPE) or cross-linked PE foam (XLPE), PET foam, irradiated cross-linked PE or PP foam (IXPE foam or IXPP foam), EVA foam, polyolefin (PO) foam (e.g., cross-linked PO foam (XLPO)), foam rubber, or a cork-based underlayer (e.g., corkboard).

[0136] The various aspects of the present disclosure have been described above primarily with reference to a few embodiments. However, it will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that other embodiments than those described above are also possible within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, it will be appreciated that the embodiments described herein with respect to floor panels are also applicable to any building panels, such as wall panels. In addition, for example, Figure 6b-6c The illustrated bedding member 32 may be attached to any of the panels described herein, such as Figures 1a-1d , 2a-2c, 3a-3c, 4a-4c, 5a-5c, 7a-7b, 8a-8f and 9c-9d. On the contrary, it is obvious to those skilled in the art that Figure 6b-6c The backing member 32 is optional and can be removed. Finally, it should be emphasized that in some embodiments, for example Figures 1a-1d In any of the embodiments of , 2a-2c, 3a-3c, 4a-4c, 5a-5c, 6a-6c, 7a-7d, 8a-8f and 9a-9d, the core 20 may include a thermosetting resin, preferably PU, epoxy resin or melamine formaldehyde resin.

[0137] Example

[0138] The locking structure was tested on samples of first and second panels of the first and second groups G1 and G2, which were in the form of SPC panels with a thickness T of 5 mm. The samples in each group G1 and G2 included a recessed portion, and the width WP of the protrusion was 0.2 mm. In the samples of the first group G1, the protrusion extended along the entire second edge portion to the corner portion 33, as shown in FIG. Figures 8e-8f In the sample of the second group G2, there is no protrusion at the corner portion 33, as shown in FIG. Figures 9a-9b As shown. The gap dimension between the uppermost portions of the edge portions 1a and 2b at the corner portion 33 of the assembled sample was then measured using a profile projector. The maximum gap dimensions of the first group G1 and the second group G2 were approximately 0.2 mm and approximately 0 mm, respectively. Therefore, it was found that the maximum gap dimension of the second group G2 was significantly smaller than that of the first group G1.

[0139] Implementation Plan

[0140] The following provides further aspects of the present disclosure. The embodiments, examples, etc. of these aspects are generally similar to the embodiments, examples, etc. described above, so please refer to the above for detailed description.

[0141] Item 1. A set of building panels, such as floor panels, comprising a first panel (1) and a second panel (2), and locking means for locking a first edge portion (1a) of the first panel to a second edge portion (2b) of the second panel, the first edge portion (1a) and the second edge portion (2b) being configured to be connected to each other by relative substantially vertical displacement of the first panel (1) and the second panel (2) towards each other, the locking means comprising:

[0142] a locking element (3) extending upwardly from a lower strip (4) provided in the first edge portion (1a), and a locking member (5) extending downwardly from an upper strip (6) provided in the second edge portion (2b), wherein the locking element (3) and the locking member (5) are configured to cooperate for horizontally locking the first edge portion (1a) and the second edge portion (2b); and

[0143] A protrusion (7) and a groove (8) are arranged in the first edge portion (1a) and the second edge portion (2b), wherein the protrusion and the groove are configured to cooperate to vertically lock the first edge portion (1a) and the second edge portion (2b), and the protrusion and the groove preferably extend longitudinally along the first edge portion (1a) and the second edge portion (2b).

[0144] Item 2. A set of panels according to Item 1, wherein the protrusion (7) protrudes outwardly from the second edge portion (2b) and the groove (8) is arranged in the first edge portion (1a).

[0145] Item 3. A group of panels according to item 1 or 2, wherein the vertically arranged fourth edge portion (2d) of the second panel (2) includes a further locking device, the further locking device comprising a tongue (27) configured to cooperate with a tongue receiving groove (28) of an adjacent panel (1') for vertical locking, wherein the longitudinal end of the second edge portion (2b) is defined by the tip (27a) of the tongue (27), wherein preferably in the locked state and / or unlocked state of the first panel (1) and the second panel (2), the longitudinal outermost portion (7d) of the protrusion (7) extends at a position located on the inside of the tongue (27) in the direction of the second edge portion (2b), for example on the longitudinal inside of the longitudinal end of the second edge portion (2b).

[0146] Item 4. A group of panels according to item 2 or 3, wherein the vertically arranged fourth edge portion (2d) of the second panel (2) includes a further locking device, the further locking device including a further locking groove (26), the further locking groove being configured to cooperate with a further locking element (25) provided on a further strip (29) of an adjacent panel (1') for horizontal locking, the longitudinal outermost portion (7d) of the protrusion (7) extending at a position located on the inner side of the further locking groove (26) in the direction along the second edge portion (2b), for example located on the longitudinal inner side of the further locking groove (26).

[0147] Item 5. A set of floor panels according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the second edge portion (2b) comprises a side wall (7c), preferably a vertical side wall (7c), so that the protrusion (7) is missing at a corner portion (33) of the second panel (2), and the second edge portion (2b) and the fourth edge portion (2d) meet at the corner portion.

[0148] Item 6. A set of building panels according to any of the preceding items 2 to 5, wherein the vertically arranged fourth edge portion (2d) of the second panel (2) comprises a further locking device, the further locking device comprising a tongue (27) configured to cooperate with a tongue receiving groove (28) of an adjacent panel (1') for vertical locking, the protrusion (7) being arranged vertically below the tongue (27), for example below its bottom surface (27b).

[0149] Item 7. A set of building panels according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the protrusion (7) is formed integrally with the second edge portion (2b).

[0150] Item 8. A set of building panels according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the locking member (5) is elastic.

[0151] Item 9. A set of building panels according to any of the preceding items, wherein the first panel (1) and the second panel (2) are configured to be in a contact connection position during connection, in which the upper parts (1e; 2e) of the first edge portion (1a) and the second edge portion (2b) cooperate with each other, and the protrusion (7) is located vertically above the groove (8).

[0152] Item 10. A set of building panels according to Item 9, wherein the first panel (1) and the second panel (2) are configured to be in a contact connection position during connection, in which the upper part (2e) of the second edge portion (2b) cooperates with the uppermost part (1h) of the first edge portion (1a) and the protrusion (7) is located vertically above the groove (8).

[0153] Item 11. A set of building panels according to any of the preceding items, wherein the first panel (1) and the second panel (2) are configured to be in a locked connection position during connection, in which the upper parts (1e; 2e) of the first edge portion (1a) and the second edge portion (2b) cooperate with each other, while the locking element (3) and the locking member (5), preferably the inner parts (3a; 5a) of the locking element (3) and the locking member (5) cooperate with each other.

[0154] Item 12. A set of building panels according to item 11, wherein the first panel (1) and the second panel (2) are configured to be in a locked connection position during connection, in which the upper part (2e) of the second edge part (2b) cooperates with the uppermost part (1h) of the first edge part (1a), while the locking element (3) and the locking member (5), preferably the inner parts (3a; 5a) of the locking element (3) and the locking member (5) cooperate with each other.

[0155] Item 13. The set of building panels according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the inner part (3a) of the locking element (3) comprises a chamfer (14).

[0156] Item 14. A set of building panels according to any of the preceding items, wherein the locking element (3) is configured to be arranged in a locking groove (9) provided in the second edge portion (2b), and / or wherein the locking member (5) is configured to be arranged in a locking cavity (10) provided in the first edge portion (1a).

[0157] Item 15. The set of building panels according to Item 14, wherein the protrusion (7) is arranged below the innermost part (9b) of the locking groove (9).

[0158] Item 16. The set of building panels according to Item 14 or 15, wherein the depth (DG) of the locking groove (9) increases in a direction towards an outermost part of the second edge portion (2b).

[0159] Item 17. A set of building panels according to any one of Items 14 to 16, wherein the locking cavity (10) comprises a recess (17) for accommodating the locking member (5) during joining of the first edge portion (1a) and the second edge portion (2b).

[0160] Item 18. A set of building panels according to any one of items 14 to 17, wherein, in the locked state of the first panel (1) and the second panel (2), there is a gap (S) between the locking member (5) and the bottom part (10b) of the locking cavity (10).

[0161] Item 19. A set of building panels according to any one of Items 14 to 18, wherein, in the locked state of the first panel (1) and the second panel (2), the locking member (5) cooperates with a bottom part (10b) of the locking cavity (10).

[0162] Item 20. A set of building panels according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the lower strip (4) is elastic such that it can bend downwards during joining of the first (1a) and second (2b) edge portions.

[0163] Item 21. A set of building panels according to any of the preceding items, wherein the ratio between the extension length (ES) of the lower strip (4) and the panel thickness (T) of the first panel (1) is in the range of 1:2.5 to 1.8:1, preferably in the range of 1:1.8 to 1.8:1.

[0164] Item 22. A set of building panels according to any of the preceding items, wherein, in the locked state of the first panel (1) and the second panel (2), the protrusion (7) and the groove (8) cooperate at the upper cooperating surfaces (7a; 8a) of the protrusion (7) and the groove (8), wherein the lower surfaces (7b; 8b) of the protrusion (7) and the groove (8) are preferably separated from each other.

[0165] Item 23. A set of building panels according to any of the preceding items, wherein the upper cooperating surfaces (7a; 8a) of the protrusion (7) and / or the groove (8) form a locking angle (α) of 0°-45° relative to a second horizontal direction (Y) extending parallel to the front (1f; 2f) and / or back (1g; 2g) of the panel.

[0166] Item 24. A set of building panels according to any of the preceding items, wherein the upper portions (1e; 2e) of the first edge portion (1a) and the second edge portion (2b) respectively comprise a shelf portion (11) and an overlapping portion (12) configured to cooperate with each other at superposed cooperating surfaces (11a; 12a).

[0167] Item 25. A set of building panels according to Item 24, wherein the shelf portion (11) comprises a shelf recess (13) for receiving at least a portion of the protrusion (7) during joining of the first edge portion (1a) and the second edge portion (2b).

[0168] Item 26. A set of building panels according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the front face (1f; 2f) of the first panel (1) and / or the second panel (2) comprises a bevel (15; 16).

[0169] Item 27. A set of building panels according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the second edge portion (2b) comprises a calibration groove (22).

[0170] Item 28. A set of building panels according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the first edge portion ( 1 a ) and the second edge portion ( 2b ) are short edge portions.

[0171] Item 29. A set of building panels according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the horizontal locking is also provided by cooperating upper parts (1e; 2e) of the first (1a) and second (2b) edge parts.

[0172] Item 30. A set of building panels according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the core (20) of the first panel (1) and the second panel (2) comprises a thermoplastic material such as PVC and an inorganic filler.

Claims

1. A set of building panels, such as floor panels, comprising a first panel (1) and a second panel (2), and locking means for locking a first edge portion (1a) of the first panel to a second edge portion (2b) of the second panel, the first edge portion (1a) and the second edge portion (2b) being configured to be connected to each other by a relative substantially vertical displacement of the first panel (1) and the second panel (2) towards each other, the locking means comprising: a locking element (3) extending upwardly from a lower strip (4) provided in the first edge portion (1a), and a locking member (5) extending downwardly from an upper strip (6) provided in the second edge portion (2b), wherein the locking element (3) and the locking member (5) are configured to cooperate for horizontally locking the first edge portion (1a) and the second edge portion (2b); as well as a protrusion (7) and a groove (8) arranged in the first edge portion (1a) and the second edge portion (2b), wherein the protrusion and the groove are configured to cooperate to vertically lock the first edge portion (1a) and the second edge portion (2b), wherein the protrusion (7) protrudes outward from the second edge portion (2b), and the groove (8) is arranged in the first edge portion (1a), and wherein a vertically arranged fourth edge portion (2d) of the second panel (2) comprises further locking means, the further locking means comprising a tongue (27) configured to cooperate with a tongue receiving groove (28) of an adjacent panel (1') for vertical locking, wherein the protrusion (7) extends longitudinally along the second edge portion (2b), wherein the longitudinal ends of the second edge portion (2b) are defined by the tips (27a) of the tongues (27), and The longitudinal outermost portion (7d) of the protrusion (7) is located longitudinally inside the longitudinal end portion of the second edge portion (2b).

2. A set of building panels according to claim 1, wherein The longitudinal outermost portion (7d) of the protrusion (7) is located longitudinally inside the entire tongue (27).

3. A set of building panels according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The further locking means comprises a further locking groove (26) configured to cooperate with a further locking element (25) provided on a further strip (29) of an adjacent panel (1') for horizontal locking, the longitudinal outermost portion (7d) of the protrusion (7) being located longitudinally inside the further locking groove (26) in a direction along the second edge portion (2b).

4. A set of building panels according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The protrusion (7) is arranged vertically below the tongue (27), for example below the bottom surface (27b) of the tongue.

5. A set of building panels according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The second edge portion (2b) comprises a side wall (7c), preferably a vertical side wall, so that the protrusion (7) is missing at a corner portion (33) of the second panel (2), where the second edge portion (2b) and the fourth edge portion (2d) meet.

6. A set of building panels according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The locking element (3) is configured to be arranged in a locking groove (9) provided in the second edge portion (2b), and the protrusion (7) is arranged below the innermost portion (9b) of the locking groove (9).

7. A set of building panels according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The locking element (3) is configured to be arranged in a locking groove (9) provided in the second edge portion (2b), the depth (DG) of the locking groove (9) increasing in a direction towards the outermost portion of the second edge portion (2b).

8. A set of building panels according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The locking member (5) is configured to be arranged in a locking cavity (10) provided in the first edge portion (1a), the locking cavity (10) comprising a recess (17) for accommodating the locking member (5) during joining of the first edge portion (1a) and the second edge portion (2b).

9. A set of building panels according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The lower strip (4) is elastic so that it can bend downwards during joining of the first edge portion (1a) and the second edge portion (2b).

10. A set of building panels as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein In the locked state of the first panel (1) and the second panel (2), the protrusion (7) and the groove (8) cooperate at their upper cooperating surfaces (7a; 8a), wherein their lower surfaces (7b; 8b) are at least partially separated from each other.

11. A set of building panels as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein The protrusion (7) is formed integrally with the second edge portion (2b).

12. A set of building panels as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein In a locked state of the first panel (1) and the second panel (2), a gap (S) exists between the locking member (5) and a bottom portion (10b) of the locking cavity (10).

13. A set of building panels according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The upper cooperating surfaces (7a; 8a) of the protrusion (7) and / or the groove (8) form a locking angle (α) of 0°-45° relative to a second horizontal direction (Y) extending parallel to the front (1f; 2f) and / or back (1g; 2g) of the panel.

14. A set of building panels as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein The upper side portions (1e; 2e) of the first edge portion (1a) and the second edge portion (2b) respectively include a shelf portion (11) and an overlapping portion (12) configured to cooperate with each other at overlapping cooperation surfaces (11a; 12a).

15. A set of building panels according to claim 14, wherein The shelf portion (11) includes a shelf recess (13) for receiving at least a portion of the protrusion (7) during joining of the first edge portion (1a) and the second edge portion (2b).

16. A set of building panels as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein The core (20) of the first panel (1) and the second panel (2) comprises a thermoplastic material and an inorganic filler.

17. A set of building panels, such as floor panels, comprising a first panel (1) and a second panel (2), and locking means for locking a first edge portion (1a) of the first panel to a second edge portion (2b) of the second panel, the first edge portion (1a) and the second edge portion (2b) being configured to be joined to each other by a relative substantially vertical displacement of the first panel (1) and the second panel (2) towards each other, the locking means comprising: a locking element (3) extending upwardly from a lower strip (4) provided in the first edge portion (1a), and a locking member (5) extending downwardly from an upper strip (6) provided in the second edge portion (2b), wherein the locking element (3) and the locking member (5) are configured to cooperate for horizontally locking the first edge portion (1a) and the second edge portion (2b); as well as a protrusion (7) and a groove (8) arranged in the first edge portion (1a) and the second edge portion (2b), wherein the protrusion and the groove are configured to cooperate to vertically lock the first edge portion (1a) and the second edge portion (2b), wherein the protrusion (7) is formed integrally with the second edge portion (2b), wherein the upper side portions (1e; 2e) of the first edge portion (1a) and the second edge portion (2b) respectively include a shelf portion (11) and an overlap portion (12) configured to cooperate with each other at overlapping cooperation surfaces (11a; 12a), The shelf portion (11) includes a shelf recess (13) for receiving at least a portion of the protrusion (7) during joining of the first edge portion (1a) and the second edge portion (2b), and The first panel (1) and the second panel (2) are configured to be in a contact connection position during connection, in which the upper part (2e) of the second edge part (2b) cooperates with the uppermost part (1h) of the first edge part (1a) and the protrusion (7) is located vertically above the groove (8).

18. A set of building panels according to claim 17, wherein The first panel (1) and the second panel (2) are configured to be able to be in a locked connection position during connection, in which the upper part (2e) of the second edge part (2b) cooperates with the uppermost part (1h) of the first edge part (1a), while the locking element (3) and the locking member (5), preferably the inner parts (3a; 5a) of the locking element (3) and the locking member (5) cooperate with each other.

19. A set of building panels as claimed in claim 17 or 18, wherein The protrusion (7) protrudes outward from the second edge portion (2b), and the groove (8) is arranged in the first edge portion (1a).

20. A set of building panels as claimed in any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein The locking element (3) is configured to be arranged in a locking groove (9) provided in the second edge portion (2b), and the protrusion (7) is arranged below the innermost portion (9b) of the locking groove (9).

21. A set of building panels as claimed in any one of claims 17 to 20, wherein The locking element (3) is configured to be arranged in a locking groove (9) provided in the second edge portion (2b), the depth (DG) of the locking groove (9) increasing in a direction towards the outermost portion of the second edge portion (2b).

22. A set of building panels as claimed in any one of claims 17 to 21, wherein The locking element (3) is configured to be arranged in a locking groove (9) provided in the second edge portion (2b), and the locking cavity (10) includes a recess (17) for accommodating the locking member (5) during the connection of the first edge portion (1a) and the second edge portion (2b).

23. A set of building panels as claimed in any one of claims 17 to 22, wherein The lower strip (4) is elastic so that it can bend downwards during joining of the first edge portion (1a) and the second edge portion (2b).

24. A set of building panels as claimed in any one of claims 17 to 23, wherein The ratio between the extension length (ES) of the lower strip (4) and the panel thickness (T) of the first panel (1) is in the range of 1:2.5 to 1.8:1, preferably in the range of 1:1.8 to 1.8:1.

Images