CONTINUOUS PRESS DEVICE AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING BUILDING PANELS

Abstract

CONTINUOUS PRESS DEVICE AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING CONSTRUCTION PANELS. Continuous press device (80) for manufacturing construction panels. The device comprising an upper rotary inlet drum (42) connected to an upper rotary outlet drum (44) by means of an upper continuous pressure belt (40) and a lower rotary inlet drum (43) connected to a lower rotary outlet drum (45) by means of a lower continuous pressure belt (41). The upper and lower press belts are configured to form a product path (6) between them to feed a product (9) in a feed direction (FD).An upper and lower pressing table (51, 51') each comprises at least one movable pressure pad (55) configured to be moved to the sealing back with the pressing belt (40, 41) to facilitate a pressure zone (70) preferably in the form of a pressurizable volume extending along at least a portion of the path (6). The inlet drums are configured to form the respective angles θ between the respective press belts (40, 41) and the product path (6) in a position downstream of the inlet drums and upstream of the pressure pad (55) or press table (51), in the feed direction (FD).

Description

1 / 64 Descriptive Report of the Invention Patent for CONTINUOUS PRESS DEVICE AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING CONSTRUCTION PANELS. FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to methods and devices relating thereto for the manufacture of laminated panels. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] It is known that building panels can be manufactured by means of continuous or discontinuous press methods.

[0003] A discontinuous press typically operates in cycles, in which a product can be placed under a movable press table, which subsequently applies pressure to the product to form a laminate.

[0004] Continuous press devices typically comprise a device having upper and lower continuous press belts, which form a product route between them. The continuous press belts feed a product along the product route, whereby the device is configured to apply continuous pressure to the press belts, thereby pressing the product into a laminate while the product is being fed along the product route.

[0005] Laminated panels, in various forms, are also known in the art. Laminated panels may comprise building panels, such as floor coverings, wall panels, ceiling panels or the like.

[0006] A floor can have a wooden surface. Building panels, having a wooden surface, can be of different types. Solid wood flooring is formed from a solid piece of wood in the form of a plank. Engineered wood flooring is formed from a surface layer of wood glued to a core. The Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, p. 9 / 80 2 / 64 core can be a lamellar core or a wood-based panel, such as plywood, MDF or HDF. The surface layer of wood can, as an example, have a thickness of 2 - 10 mm.

[0007] A wood floor can also be formed by gluing a wood veneer onto a core, for example, a wood-based panel such as chipboard, MDF or HDF. The wood veneer is a thin layer of wood, for example, 0.2 - 1 mm thick. A construction panel with a separate surface layer, glued onto a core of, for example, HDF or plywood, is more moisture-stable than solid wood floors.

[0008] Compared to solid wood and engineered wood flooring, wood veneer flooring can be produced at a lower cost, since only a thin layer of wood is used. However, a layer of wood veneer cannot be sanded, as can a solid wood or engineered wood floor.

[0009] As an alternative to wood flooring, laminate flooring is also available. A directly pressed laminate floor typically comprises a core of plastic fiber in 6-12 mm sheets, a top decorative surface layer of 0.2 mm thickness of laminate and a bottom compensation layer of 0.1-0.2 mm thickness of laminate, plastic, paper or similar material.

[0010] A laminated surface conventionally comprises two sheets of paper, a decorative printed paper 0.1 mm thick and a transparent overlay 0.05–0.1 mm thick, intended to protect the decorative paper from abrasion. The transparent overlay, which is made of α-cellulose fibers, comprises small, hard, transparent aluminum oxide particles, which Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, page 10 / 80 3 / 64 gives the surface layer high wear resistance.

[0011] The printed decorative paper and the overlay are impregnated with melamine resin and laminated onto a core made of wood fibers under heat and pressure. Before pressing, the two papers have a total thickness of about 0.3 mm and are compressed to about 0.2 mm after pressing.

[0012] A wood veneer may have lower impact resistance than laminate flooring, and the production cost is high compared to laminate flooring when high-quality veneers are to be used.

[0013] Recently, new types of paperless flooring have been developed with solid surfaces comprising a substantially homogeneous powder mixture of fibers, binders, and wear-resistant particles, referred to as WFF (Wood Fiber Flooring). The mixture is applied to a wood-based panel, such as MDF or HDF, and subsequently heat and pressure are applied to the mixture to form a surface layer on the panel. This flooring and process are described in international patent application WO 2009 / 065769.

[0014] International patent application WO 2009 / 065769 also describes a thin surface layer, which is applied to a sublayer comprising, for example, cork or wood fibers, mixed with a binder. The sublayer is applied to a core based on wood fibers.

[0015] US Patent 2,831,794 describes a process for manufacturing veneer panels. A green veneer is applied to a core particle mat coated with lignocellulose fibrous particle resin. Adhesive is applied to the veneer to bond the veneer to the fibrous core and form a dense surface zone on the fibrous core. The core material serves to fill Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, p. 11 / 80 4 / 64 knot holes or open flaws in the veneer. When heat and pressure are applied, the result is the formation of a panel, with the surface layer of particles filling any flaws or holes that may be present in the veneer.

[0016] US Patent 2,419,614 describes a coated wood product in which plywood is coated with a covering or overlay material consisting of mixtures of sawdust and synthetic resin. The veneer layer is covered by the covering or overlay material so that the veneer is no longer visible. The covering forms the topmost layer of the product.

[0017] In the description above, the different types of products were described with reference to flooring. However, the same material and the same problems apply to other types of building panels, such as wall panels and ceiling panels, and in furniture components.

[0018] It has been found that the manufacture of building panels, in particular building panels comprising wood veneer, is associated with several problems. For example, the moisture content of the product can cause bubbles, for example, when the pressure decreases. In a continuous press, maintaining sufficient applied pressure against the product can be a challenge.

[0019] As will become evident in this descriptive report, some problems encountered in the prior art may be exacerbated in the continuous manufacture of building panels comprising a sublayer comprising a layer of powder and / or granules and / or wood veneer.

[0020] As will become evident in this descriptive report, some problems encountered in the prior art may be exacerbated in the continuous manufacture of building panels comprising a layer of wood veneer, typically arranged in Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, page 12 / 80 5 / 64 sublayer.

[0021] The embodiments of the present invention address a need to provide methods that promote improvements in the manufacture of building panels and improvements in the quality of building panels.

[0022] The embodiments of the present invention address a need to provide devices that promote improvements in the manufacture of building panels and improvements in the quality of building panels. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0023] It is a general object of the present invention to promote the improved quality of building panels.

[0024] Another objective is to promote the improved economy of building panels.

[0025] This is yet another object to promote the mitigation or at least the reduction of the problem of bubbles in building panels.

[0026] It is another object to further promote a pressure gradient in the continuous production of building panels.

[0027] It is also an object to further promote a temperature gradient in the continuous production of building panels.

[0028] It is an object to promote improved sealing systems in a continuous press device.

[0029] It is an object to promote the controlled deaeration of a product intended to be pressed, in particular, a sublayer comprising a powder or granules, such as a wet powder and, optionally, a dry powder.

[0030] The continuous press device, according to aspects of the invention, can adopt isochoric and / or isobaric principles in its operation.

[0031] An isobaric system or process is characterized by Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, page 13 / 80 6 / 64 constant pressure. For example, the pressure in the pressure zone, promoted by the pressure damper, can be, for example, promoted by means of pressurized fluid, such as pressurized air and / or pressurized oil. In this way, an isobaric process can be promoted.

[0032] A process may, for example, comprise the process of subjecting the product to heat and pressure, while the product is fed by the continuous press device, such as the product route, whereby the product is acted upon by pressure in the pressure zone, by the press belt. In another example, a fluid pressure acts on one or more pressure bars, which are driven into the press belt and the product route with a proportionate pressure, whereby an isobaric process can be promoted. The press bars can be adjusted to a fixed distance, thus a portion of the product route and / or the product in the product route can have a constant volume.

[0033] An isochoric system or process is characterized by constant volume. For example, mechanical pressure can be transferred from the press table to the product via a press belt by means of one or more pressure bars eac, positioned at a respective fixed distance from the press belt. In this way, an isochoric process can be achieved.

[0034] The continuous press device can adopt isochoric and / or isobaric principles in its operation, as will be explained in this descriptive report.

[0035] Consequently, embodiments of the present invention preferably seek to mitigate, alleviate or eliminate one or more deficiencies, disadvantages or problems in the art, such as those identified above, individually or in any combination, in a first aspect by providing a continuous press device. Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, page 14 / 80 7 / 64 for the manufacture of building panels, such as floor or wall panels. The device comprises an upper rotating infeed drum connecting to an upper rotating outfeed drum by an upper continuous press belt, and a lower rotating infeed drum connecting to a lower rotating outfeed drum by a lower continuous press belt. The upper and lower press belts are configured to form a product path between them in a feed direction in response to the rotation of one or more of said drums or displacement of said press belt(s); an upper and a lower press table, each comprising at least one movable pressure damper configured to be moved for sealing contact with the press belt to promote a pressure zone.The pressure zone is preferably in the form of a pressurizable volume, extending along at least part of the route. The inlet drums are configured to form the respective angles φ between the respective press belts and the product route at a position downstream of the inlet drums and upstream of the pressure buffer or press table, in the feed direction.

[0036] The device preferably comprises one or more pressure bars, arranged upstream and / or downstream of the pressure damper, in the FD feed direction. One or more pressure bars are configured to apply pressure to the upper press belt and / or the lower press belt, respectively, in a direction for the product path.

[0037] Another object of the embodiments of the invention is to provide a method for the continuous manufacture of building panels, such as floor panels or wall panels.

[0038] Yet another object of the embodiments of the invention is to provide Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, page 15 / 80 8 / 64 To develop a method for preheating a product in continuous manufacturing of building panels.

[0039] Another object of the embodiments of the invention is to provide a method for pre-compressing a product in continuous manufacturing of building panels.

[0040] One object of the embodiments of the invention is to provide a method for controlling the deaeration of a product in the continuous manufacture of building panels.

[0041] At least some of these and other objects and advantages, which will become evident from the description, have been obtained, in a second aspect, by a method of manufacturing building panels, such as floor or wall panels, by means of a continuous press device having an upper rotating infeed drum connected to an upper rotating outfeed drum by an upper continuous press belt, and a lower rotating infeed drum connected to a lower rotating outfeed drum by a lower continuous press belt. The upper and lower press belts are configured to form a product route between them, to feed a product in a feeding direction, in response to the rotation of said drums; a lower and an upper press table, each comprising a movable pressure damper, configured to promote that a pressure zone extends along at least a part of said route.An angle is formed between the press belt and the product at a position downstream of a central axis of the inlet drums in the feed direction and upstream of the pressure damper, preferably upstream of the press table. The size of the angles can be adapted by adjusting a distance between the respective central axis of the inlet drums, such as a vertical V-shaped distance.

[0042] In any aspect of the invention or its combination Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, page 16 / 80 9 / 64 tions, one or more of the pressure bars may comprise at least one circular cross-section, for example, the pressure bar may be provided in the form of a cylinder, such as a rotating cylinder.

[0043] In any aspect of the invention or combinations thereof, one or more of the pressure bars may comprise at least one rectangular cross-section, for example, the pressure bar may be provided in the form of a non-rotating, rectangular bar. In any aspect of the invention or combinations thereof, one or more of the pressure bars may comprise at least one rectangular cross-section, at least one circular cross-section, or combinations thereof. For example, one or more pressure bars may be provided in the form of a non-rotating, rectangular bar and one or more pressure bars in the form of a cylinder.

[0044] Alternatively or additionally, the press belt can be heated by induction heating. Induction devices can be arranged along the press belt and configured to heat the press belt.

[0045] Induction heating can be used as the sole heat source, however, also in combination with heated drums, air or hot oil.

[0046] The advantages of induction heating may include that the heating time of the press belt can be reduced, the temperature of the press belt can be varied at a higher rate, as well as faster. Induction devices can be supplied externally, such as upstream or downstream, or inside the pressure buffer.

[0047] A reference temperature for the press belt can be promoted by hot air and / or hot oil, as in drum Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, p. 17 / 80 10 / 64 res, and induction heating of the press belt can provide additional or supplementary heat.

[0048] The continuous press device can compress the product or reduce the thickness of the product by at least 10%, preferably at least 15%, particularly at least 20%.

[0049] In a preferred embodiment, one or more pressure bars and one or more pressure dampers can, together, compress the product or reduce the thickness of the product by up to 20%, such as up to 15% or up to 10%.

[0050] In particular, one or more pressure bars and one or more pressure dampers may successively reduce the thickness to a combined reduction in product thickness of at least 10%, preferably at least 15%, particularly at least 20%.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment, one or more pressure bars and one or more pressure dampers can be configured to achieve a combined compression of the product or a reduction in the thickness of the product by up to 1 mm, preferably 1.5 mm, particularly at least 2 mm.

[0052] In particular, one or more pressure bars and one or more pressure dampers may successively reduce the thickness to obtain a combined reduction in product thickness of at least 1 mm, preferably up to 1.5 mm, particularly at least 2 mm.

[0053] A single pressure bar can be configured to reduce the product thickness by at least 10% and / or at least 1 mm.

[0054] In any aspect of the invention or combination thereof, the continuous press device may be a continuous press device for continuous pressing or manufacturing of a pro Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, page 18 / 80 11 / 64 duct comprising at least one layer of veneer, such as wood veneer. The at least one layer of veneer may be a top surface layer and / or a back surface layer of the panel.

[0055] In any aspect of the invention or combinations thereof, the continuous press device may comprise one or more pressure dampers, such as two, three, four or five pressure dampers. All pressure dampers may provide a pressure zone, as explained in this descriptive report. One or more pressure zones may all be configured to provide different pressures, such as successively increasing pressures.

[0056] The press belt will move vertically due to variations in product thickness. The product thickness may vary in both longitudinal and transverse extent. Variations in thickness may be due to, but are not limited to, a variable core thickness, an uneven distribution of adhesive, such as adhesive provided in powder form, such as by spreading, or the veneer may comprise a variable thickness, such as due to holes or cracks in the veneer.

[0057] A veneer may also typically comprise pieces of wood having different hardnesses, that is, different susceptibilities to compression, thus some pieces of the veneer may be compressed more easily than other pieces of the veneer. For example, a hard piece of veneer, with its relatively lower susceptibility to compression, may cause vertical displacement of the damper.

[0058] The press belt can also be displaced due to a gap between the individual products that are fed through the product route, once the pressure of the pressure bar or bearing, Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, page 19 / 80 12 / 64 acting on the opposite side of the press belt, may cause a slight bending of the press belt in the gap.

[0059] One consequence of the vertical movement of the press belt, caused by feeding the product between the press belts, is that it translates into movement of the pressure damper when the pressure damper comes into contact with the press belt. In this way, the pressure damper can launch and / or roll in response to the product being fed through the product route.

[0060] Additionally, a veneer, such as a veneer arranged as a surface layer of the product, may be positioned with at least one of its edges displaced horizontally inward, i.e., closer, to a core center, relative to the core edge, i.e., one edge of the veneer may not be aligned with the core edges. Consequently, the thickness of the product may also vary due to one or more of the veneer edges, such as short edges extending transversely to the feed direction, not being aligned or level with a corresponding edge, such as edges extending transversely to the feed direction, of the core.

[0061] Thus, the product may have a variable thickness in the longitudinal and transverse directions.

[0062] When different parts of the pressure damper shift or move as explained above, the pressure damper may pitch and / or roll. The greatest vertical displacement of the pressure damper may occur along the edges of the pressure damper, typically along the upstream edge parts of the pressure damper, in particular the corner sections of the pressure damper, since these parts of the pressure damper will move in response to the incoming product. Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, page 20 / 80 13 / 64 te, where variations in thickness are typically greater. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0063] These and other aspects, characteristics and advantages, of which the embodiments of the invention are capable, will become evident and elucidated from the description presented below of the embodiments of the present invention, with reference being made to the attached drawings, in which:

[0064] Figure 1A shows a continuous press principle;

[0065] Figure 2 shows an exemplary process for producing a product, according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0066] Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a building panel, according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0067] Figure 4 shows details of an embodiment of the invention;

[0068] Figures 5A - D show schematic illustrations of a continuous press device, according to the embodiments of the invention;

[0069] Figure 6 shows a schematic illustration of a continuous press device, according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0070] Figure 7 shows a schematic illustration of a continuous press device, according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0071] Figure 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view of details of the invention in Figure 7;

[0072] Figure 9A shows details of the modality of Figure 7;

[0073] Figure 9B is an alternative implementation of the modality of Figure 8A;

[0074] Figure 9C is another alternative implementation of the modality of Figure 8A; Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, page 21 / 80 14 / 64

[0075] Figure 10 shows a continuous press device, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0076] Figure 11 shows a continuous press device comprising induction heating, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0077] Figure 12 shows a continuous press device comprising a rotating pressure bar, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0078] Figure 13 shows a continuous press device, according to another embodiment of the invention;

[0079] Figure 14 is a schematic illustration of details of a pressure damper with a sealing system, according to one embodiment;

[0080] Figure 15 is a schematic illustration of details of a pressure damper with a sealing system, according to one embodiment;

[0081] Figure 16A is a schematic illustration of details of a press table and a pressure damper, according to the embodiments;

[0082] Figure 16B is a schematic illustration of details of a pressure damper, according to the embodiments;

[0083] Figure 17 is a schematic illustration of a continuous press employing isobaric principles; and

[0084] Figure 18 is a schematic illustration of a continuous press employing isochoric principles. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS

[0085] The specific embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. This invention can, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be considered as limited to the embodiments presented in the Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, page 22 / 80 15 / 64 present descriptive report; instead, these embodiments are provided in such a way that this invention is straightforward and complete, and conveys the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. The terminology used in the detailed description of the embodiments, illustrated in the accompanying drawings, is not intended to be limiting of the invention. In the drawings, similar numbers refer to similar elements.

[0086] With reference to Figure 1, the continuous press device may comprise a lower inlet drum 42, in drive connection with an upper outlet drum 44 by means of an upper continuous press belt 40, and a lower inlet drum 43, in drive connection with a lower outlet drum 45 by means of a lower continuous press belt 41. The lower and upper press belts are configured to form a product route 6 between them. The press belts are configured to transport a product 9 along the product route 6, in a feed direction FD.A press device 50 may comprise a press table 51 (see, for example, Figures 5A, 5D, 7 and 10), comprising one or more pressure dampers 55, configured to provide a pressure zone 70, which may extend along at least part of the path in the feed direction FD, between the press belts 40, 41, preferably for at least half the length of the press table 51 in the feed direction. The pressure zone 70 may be a three-dimensional space. The pressure zone(s) 70 may be formed between the lower and upper pressure dampers and the lower and upper press belts, respectively.

[0087] The 70, 70' pressure zone can be a pressurizable space. The 70, 70' pressure zone can be delimited in horizontal directions, such as in the FD feed direction and transverse to the FD feed direction, by the 55, 55' pressure damper. The zone Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, page 23 / 80 16 / 64 pressure zone 70, 70' can be delimited in a first vertical direction by the press table 51. The pressure zone 70, 70' can be delimited in a second vertical direction by the press belt 40, such as downwards in the case of the upper part of the continuous press device. The second vertical direction V can be opposite to the first vertical direction. This is shown, for example, in Figures 10 and 12.

[0088] Therefore, a pressure zone 70 can be formed within the limits of the pressure damper 55.

[0089] The pressure damper 55 can seal the pressure zone 70 against ambient pressure Pa.

[0090] The pressure damper may preferably be movable relative to the press table, such as in a vertical direction.

[0091] To facilitate the displacement of the pressure damper 55, the press table 51 may comprise a displacement groove 60, configured to receive, at least partially, the pressure damper 55. The displacement groove 60 may extend continuously, such as in a loop, in the press table 51, as shown in Figures 8 and 16A. The displacement groove 60 may comprise a substantially rectangular shape in a horizontal plane H. The displacement groove 60 may comprise a substantially rectangular cross-section in a vertical plane V.

[0092] In one embodiment, illustrated in Figures 9A - 9B, the pressure damper 55 may comprise a seal structure 56 and / or a friction sealing element 57, attached to the seal structure to move with it. The seal structure 56 may move, at least partially, on the press table 51.

[0093] The friction sealing element 57 may comprise a plurality of friction sealing elements extending Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, p. 24 / 80 17 / 64 contiguously.

[0094] The friction sealing element 57 may comprise a plurality of individual friction sealing elements extending contiguously and configured to extend continuously along the displacement groove 60.

[0095] As derivable from Figure 10, at least one pressure bar P1, P2 can be provided in the bearings 51, in one or more positions upstream of the pressure damper 55 in the feed direction FD, such as upstream of the entire pressure damper 55, such as upstream of the seal structure 56, such as upstream of the entire seal structure 56, such as upstream of the friction seal element 57, such as upstream of the entire friction seal element 57.

[0096] As derivable from Figure 10, at least one pressure bar P-1, P-2 can be provided in the bearings 51, in one or more positions downstream of the pressure damper 55 in the feed direction FD, such as downstream of the entire pressure damper 55, such as downstream of the seal structure 56, such as downstream of the entire seal structure 56, such as downstream of the friction seal element 57, such as downstream of the entire friction seal element 57.

[0097] The upper press table can be adjusted in a vertical direction to adapt to the product intended to be fed to product route 6. The lower and upper press tables 51 can be stationary during the operation of the press device. The drums 42, 44, 43, 45 can be stationary during operation. The upper press belt 40 forms an angle phi with the plane of product route 6 or with a front surface of the product, and, correspondingly, the lower press table can form an angle phi with a plane H of the product route or with the front surface. Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, page 25 / 80 18 / 64 tal 5 and / or rear surface 6 of product 9, so that there is a gap between the inner drums and the product. Typically, a first contact position 3', between the product and the press table, may be located very close to a more upstream edge of the press table, in relation to the feed direction. According to aspects of the invention, the product may be preheated by thermal radiation from the press belt before being fed between the press tables. According to aspects of the invention, the product may be preheated by contact with the press belt before being fed between the press tables. According to aspects of the invention, the preheating of the product may be adjusted by adjusting the distance between the upper inlet drum and the lower inlet drum, thereby adjusting the angle φ.For example, with reference to Figure 6, by reducing the distance between the lower and upper inlet drums, the angle phi will be reduced, so that the lower and upper press belts are placed very close to the product path and / or the product. Also, the first contact position 3' can be moved upstream in the feed direction FD. In this way, greater preheating is obtained. In this way, the continuous press can be made smaller and more economical.

[0098] Product 9 may comprise a binder, which may be provided in the form of a powder. The powder typically comprises a fraction of air, which is expelled from the sides of the product when pressure is applied by the pressure buffer. The expulsion of air may alter the properties of, or distort, the powder layer or displace a portion of the powder from it and may thus have negative effects, for example, on the quality and / or appearance of the product. For example, in the case of a powder layer, this may, for example, comprise a printed pattern.

[0099] In short, heat is applied primarily by the belt of Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, page 26 / 80 19 / 64 Heated press. The press belt can be heated by heating the drums; however, the press belt can also be heated, additionally or alternatively, by hot air or hot oil in the pressure zone and / or on the drums.

[00100] In summary, a product is fed into the continuous press device, having a clearance relative to the inlet and outlet drums, respectively. Heat is conducted to the product from the press belt by at least one point of first contact between the press belt and the product. The product may, however, be additionally preheated by the press belt before contact with it, as will be explained in this descriptive report.

[00101] Alternatively or additionally, the press belt can be heated by induction heating. Induction devices can be arranged along the press belt and configured to heat the press belt.

[00102] Induction heating can be used as the sole heat source, however, also in combination with heated drums, air or hot oil. Thus, induction heating, alone or in combination with any of the aspects of the invention.

[00103] Pressure is applied by the pressure buffer downstream of the inlet drums, and said pressure can be relieved as the product is fed past the pressure buffer.

[00104] Thus, the pressure applied to the product by the continuous press device 80 can form a pressure curve, such as pressure as a function of time or distance. As explained in this descriptive report, embodiments of aspects of the present invention can promote the pressure curve to become increasingly isobaric, such as by decreasing the rate of change. Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, page 27 / 80 20 / 64 pressure upstream and / or downstream of the pressure zone.

[00105] Thus, the product temperature, such as the surface temperature on the front surface 5 or on the back surface 6 of the core 10 or the temperature of the binder, by the continuous press device 80 forms a temperature curve, such as the temperature as a function of time or distance. As explained in this descriptive report, embodiments of aspects of the present invention can promote the temperature curve to be made even more isochoric, such as by decreasing the rate of temperature change upstream and / or downstream of the pressure zone.

[00106] Figure 2 illustrates an exemplary layer composition of a product 9 intended for pressing. The product may comprise one or more layers. In one embodiment, the product comprises a first layer 11, typically provided on a sheet 10, which may be a wood-based sheet, such as HDF, MDF or similar, as discussed above. The first layer, in the form of a sublayer 11, may comprise a powder, such as a dry powder, or a granulate, such as moistened dry powder. It should be noted that the term powder layer may, hereafter in the text, include the variant granulate layer. A second layer, in the form of a surface layer 12, may be provided to the product, spacing the first layer between the second layer and the sheet. The second layer may, for example, comprise a printed pattern, paper, wood veneer or combinations thereof.

[00107] Referring now to Figure 3, an exemplary construction panel is shown, comprising sheet 10, a sublayer 11 in the form of a powder layer and a surface layer 12 in the form of a veneer.

[00108] A schematic illustration of details of an embodiment of a first aspect of the invention is shown in Figure 4, which Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, page 28 / 80 Figure 21 / 64 shows an inlet drum 40, 43 in drive connection with a press belt 40, 41. The press belt has an inner surface 40b, 41b and an outer surface 40a, 41b facing the product 9. One or more pressure bars P1, P2 are configured to make sliding contact with the inner surface 40b, 41b, thereby pre-compressing the product 9 downstream of the pressure zone. More than one pressure bar may be used to successively pre-compress the product in a stepped manner.

[00109] Although Figures 4, 5A - 5D, 7 and 10 show only the upper halves of the respective press devices, i.e., an assembly of input and output drums with a press belt and an adjacent press table 51, for the purpose of explaining aspects of the invention, it is evident to those skilled in the art that corresponding devices, illustrated in Figures 4, 5A - 5D and 7, can preferably also be applied on an opposite side of the product route, as shown, for example, in Figures 1 and 6. It should, however, be understood that the aspects in the present descriptive report can be advantageous when implemented in a single-belt continuous press or a double-belt continuous press.

[00110] As illustrated in Figures 5A - D, a product can be fed, in the feed direction FD, via the press belt, whereby it is subjected to pressure in pressure zone 70, promoted by the pressure damper 51. Due to heat transfer from the press belt to the product, the binder becomes liquid and can thus be referred to as active. An area of ​​the pressure damper below which the binder is active will be referred to as an active area. Once the binder is active, intermolecular crosslinking occurs at a relatively high rate, whereby the binder is cured. To obtain a stable curing process, Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, page 29 / 80 22 / 64 It may be desirable to obtain a cure rate of preferably 95% while the product is still in the active area. Subsequently, a sufficient amount of heat must be transferred to the product to activate the binder, to obtain a high cure rate while the product is under pressure. However, excess heat can increase the vapor pressure of the moisture contained in the product to the point that it may present undesirable effects on the product and / or the manufacturing process. For example, if the vapor pressure becomes too high when the product leaves the pressure zone, and the pressure then decreases, the vapor may cause bubbles on the surface of the resulting construction panel. Also, excess heat can heat a core of the product to a point where the core may impede the cooling of the front and back layers, as heat is then conducted from the inside out of the product.This phenomenon can cause problems, for example, in the further processing of the construction panel, such as in subsequent manufacturing steps, including the formation of interlocking systems along the edges of the construction panel.

[00111] As mentioned, one or more of the drums can heat the press belt, for example, by heat transfer where the press belt contacts the drums. This can be promoted, for example, by one or more of the drums containing hot oil.

[00112] The continuous press device can compress the product or reduce its thickness by up to 20%, as well as up to 15% or up to 10%.

[00113] In a preferred embodiment, one or more pressure bars and one or more pressure dampers can together compress the product or reduce its thickness by up to 20%, such as up to 15% or up to 10%.

[00114] In particular, one or more pressure bars and one or Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, page 30 / 80 23 / 64 additional pressure dampers can successively reduce the thickness to a combined reduction in product thickness of at least 10%, preferably at least 15%, particularly at least 20%.

[00115] In a preferred embodiment, one or more pressure bars and one or more pressure dampers can be configured to achieve a combined compression of the product or a reduction in its thickness by up to 1 mm, preferably 1.5 mm, particularly at least 2 mm.

[00116] In particular, one or more pressure bars and one or more pressure dampers can successively reduce the thickness to obtain a combined reduction in product thickness of at least 1 mm, preferably up to 1.5 mm, particularly at least 2 mm.

[00117] In any aspect of the invention or combinations thereof, one or more of the pressure bars may comprise at least one circular cross-section, for example, the pressure bar may be provided in the form of a cylinder, such as a rotating cylinder. An exemplary embodiment comprising a pressure bar having at least one circular cross-section is shown, for example, in Figures 4, 10 and 5A - 5D.

[00118] In any aspect of the invention or combinations thereof, one or more of the pressure bars P1, P-1 may comprise at least one rectangular cross-section, for example, the pressure bar may be provided in the form of a non-rotating, rectangular bar.

[00119] In any aspect of the invention or combinations thereof, one or more of the pressure bars P1, P-1 may comprise at least one rectangular cross-section, at least one circular cross-section, or combinations thereof. For example, one or Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, page 31 / 80 24 / 64 more pressure bars can be provided in the form of a non-rotating, rectangular bar, and one or more pressure bars in the form of a cylinder, such as a rotating cylinder or pressure roller. An exemplary embodiment of a P1 pressure bar, in the form of a rotating cylinder, is shown in Figure 12.

[00120] The feeding speed of product 9, by the continuous press device 80, can typically be around 8 - 10 meters per minute.

[00121] The temperature of one or more of the input drums 42, 43 can be set to heat the press belt, and can typically be around 190 - 210°C. Thus, the press belt 40, 41 can have a temperature of about 190 - 210°C as the press belt slides off the drum, such as the input drum. As mentioned, heat can be correspondingly transferred to the press belt 40, 41 by means of contact with the output drums 44, 45.

[00122] The press belt may have a temperature T1, as it slides from the input drum 42, and an output temperature T2, as it slides on the output drum 44. T1 may be in the range of 190 - 210°C and T2 may be in the range of 180°C.

[00123] The pressure damper 55 can be configured with one or more temperature zones, such as the first Za, the second Zb, the third Zc and the fourth Zd temperature zones, as illustrated in Figures 8 and 10 to 12. Other configurations are conceivable, such as one, two, three, four, five or six temperature zones. The temperature zones can be configured to promote individual heating of the respective temperature zones, for example, active heating or active cooling along the pressure damper in the supply direction. The temperature in a respective temperature zone can be controlled, for example, by Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, p. 32 / 80 25 / 64 temperature control of a circulating airflow, for example, by means of a turbo-type fan.

[00124] As will become evident in this descriptive report, aspects of the invention can promote a reduction in the rate of pressure increase and / or decrease. In this way, a more uniform pressure curve is obtained by the continuous press device 80.

[00125] As mentioned, it may generally be desirable to utilize the length of the pressure zone 70, in the feed direction FD, to obtain a stable curing process and thus a stable end product, such as a building panel. A stable curing process can be considered achieved when a certain degree of cure, such as 95%, is reached at the time the product exits the pressure zone. The heat transfer rate from the press belt 40, 41 to the product 9 can increase once the binder of the sublayer 11 becomes liquid; therefore, it may be desirable to reach the point in the process where the binder becomes liquid already in the pressure zone 70, since the distance or area of ​​the pressure zone, in the feed direction FD, that is being occupied to heat the product 9 to the point where the binder becomes liquid (approximately 90°C) may not be actively used.This can be negative for space economy in the press, and thus for production economy, and thus for the economy of the construction panel. Consequently, it may be desirable to utilize the largest possible area of ​​the pressure zone 70, remembering that the pressure zone 70 extends over an area of ​​the press belt 40, 41 for the curing process. During the curing of the product, i.e., the binder, it may be desirable to keep the product under pressure, i.e., in the pressure zone. The product 9 may also typically cool slightly as it propagates through the pressure zone. For reasons already mentioned. Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, page 33 / 80 26 / 64 cadences, it may be desirable to ensure that the product has already been sufficiently cooled when it exits the pressure zone, so that the vapor pressure is sufficiently low so as not to cause bubbles. This may be another reason for reaching the point at which the binder becomes active at an early point along the product route. As will be explained in this descriptive report, aspects of the present invention can promote that the pressure applied to the product can be gradually decreased, such as decreased in stages, simultaneously as the product cools between the pressure zone 70 and the outlet drums 44, 45. In this way, the conditions that result in the formation of bubbles can be, at least at a certain point, prevented.

[00126] The vapor pressure exerted by the moisture content of the product, such as the moisture contained in a powder or a veneer, increases with temperature. Thus, the more energy is transferred to the product, the higher the vapor pressure.

[00127] The press belt 40, 41 may preferably have a temperature sufficient to cause activation of the binder within a specified distance in the feed direction, or after a specified period of contact time with the product, or a combination thereof. Once the binder is in a liquid state, the curing process is drastically accelerated and the speed of the curing process is increased. It should be mentioned that a certain degree of binder curing may also occur in a non-liquid state, although this relatively slow curing process may be disregarded in relation to the curing speed in this descriptive report, referred to as curing or in the active state. The speed of crosslinking, i.e., curing, may depend on the temperature; thus, a certain product temperature during curing may be optimal for obtaining a stable product cure. It is understood that Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, page 34 / 80 27 / 64 A greater transfer of energy from the press belt to the product can advance the start of the curing process upstream in the feeding direction, that is, it can activate the binder at an earlier stage. However, if the binder temperature becomes too high, the crosslinking reaction rate may become too high and the binder may not cure stably. This can result in lower quality of the finished product.

[00128] In any aspect, the binder can be provided in powder form.

[00129] As discussed, it may also be preferable to consider that the core temperature 10 of product 9, which may comprise a sheet, may preferably not reach very high temperatures in the output drums 44, 45. This is because if the core temperature 10 is too high, energy will be conducted from the core 10 to the surface layer 12 once the surface begins to cool. This may compromise further processing, such as profiling, varnishing, etc., and may require intermediate storage of the panels before further processing.

[00130] The cooling and / or heating of product 9 can be controlled in several ways, some of which have been discussed above. All temperature zones can be cooled or heated. In one embodiment, heat is added by the inlet drums 42, 43, and preferably also by the outlet drums 44, 45. The press belt 40, 41 can be passively cooled between the inlet drums and the outlet drums. Heat can be transferred from the belt 40, 41 to product 9, thus the belt can, for example, be passively cooled in this way. By passively cooling the press belt 40, 41, product 9 can reach a sufficiently low temperature as it exits the outlet drums so as not to compromise the tolerances of Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, page 35 / 80 28 / 64 locking systems, formed along one or more edges of the finished product, such as a building panel, subsequently conducting a continuous press process, described in this descriptive report, in a production line for manufacturing building panels.

[00131] As discussed, product 9 can typically have a variable thickness before entering the pressure zone. The thickness can vary in the FD feed direction and in a direction transverse to the feed direction, such as in the product width direction.

[00132] Therefore, product 9 may cause the press belt 40, 41 and the pressure damper 55, 55' to tip over or become tilted in the feed direction FD and / or in a direction transverse to the feed direction FD, therefore the pressure damper 55 may be launched and / or rolled.

[00133] The tilting or launching and / or rolling of the press belt 40, 41 may cause leakage in the pressure zone 70, whereby the pressure zone 70 becomes unable to maintain a desired operating pressure P0 in the pressure zone 70, such as at least 25 bar, preferably 30-40 bar. Therefore, the operating pressure P0 can be applied to the respective press belts 40, 41, and thus propel the respective press belts 40, 41 to the product route 6, where the product 9 can be disposed of, in order to press the product 9.

[00134] As illustrated, for example, in Figures 5A - D, the press device 80 may comprise one or more pressure devices, which may be provided in the form of pressure bars P1, P2, P3, P4, P4.

[00135] One or more pressure bars may be a non-rotating, fixed and / or rotating element. The pressure bar may have Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, page 36 / 80 29 / 64 a length extending in a longitudinal direction, corresponding to a direction transverse to the feed direction and parallel to the product path, such as a horizontal direction. The pressure bar may have a height extending in a vertical direction and a width extending in the feed direction. According to the embodiments, the length of the pressure bar is greater than the width, and the width may be greater than the height. One or more pressure bars may comprise grooves, distributed along their length to reduce friction against the press belt.

[00136] The pressure bar can be configured to slide against the press belt while applying pressure to the press belt 40, 41, or to roll against the press belt while applying pressure to the press belt 40, 41. The pressure bars can be configured to apply continuous pressure to the press belt, in particular, one side facing inwards towards the press belt, whereby the press belt is propelled, such as constantly or continuously driven towards the product route. In Figures 5A - C, the pressure is applied in a vertically downward direction, although it is understood that in the case of one or more corresponding pressure bars, also arranged on the opposite side of the product 9, these pressure bars will propel the lower press belt upwards towards the product route.

[00137] As derived from Figures 5A - B, the pressure bar P1, P-1 can be arranged on one side of the press belt, which is opposite the side of the press belt facing product 6 and / or product 9. The pressure bar can be configured to push the press belt towards the product. The pressure bar can be configured to push the press belt towards product 9 by applying a pressure of magnitude not exceeding the operating pressure P0, applied by the press device 50, i.e., in the pressure zone. Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, page 37 / 80 30 / 64 70, just like 50-80%. For example, the pressure bar can apply a pressure of about 25 bar when P0 is about 30 bar.

[00138] The pressure bar P1, P-1 can be configured to push the press belt 40, 41 in the direction of the product 9 by applying a pressure not exceeding the clamping pressure PC, applied by the pressure damper 55.

[00139] The press device 50 may comprise the press table 51 and the pressure damper 55.

[00140] As derivable from Figure 10, at least one pressure bar P1, P2 can be provided on the press table 51, in a position upstream of the pressure damper 55. In particular, at least one pressure bar P1, P2 can be provided on the press table 51, in a position upstream of the pressure damper 55 in the feed direction FD, preferably upstream of the entire pressure damper 55.

[00141] As a derivable from Figure 10, other pressure bars P-1, P-2 can be provided on the press table 51, in the respective positions downstream of the pressure damper 55. In particular, other pressure bars P-2, P-2 can be provided on the press table 51, in the respective positions downstream of the pressure damper 55 in the feed direction FD, preferably downstream of the entire pressure damper 55.

[00142] It is understood that the pressure bars may preferably be provided outside the pressure zone 70, provided within the seal structure 56 and / or the friction sealing element 57 of the pressure damper 55.

[00143] One or more pressure bars can be configured to pre-compress the product. In particular, the pressure bar can be configured to pre-compress the powder layer of the product. In this way, air is expelled from the powder layer, such as about 50% of the air. Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, page 38 / 80 31 / 64 initially contained in the powder layer can be expelled. In this way, the pressure bar can promote the expulsion of air from one or more layers of the product. In particular, the control of product deaeration may comprise disposing of more than one pressure bar upstream of the pressure damper 55 in the feed direction, whereby the product 9 can be progressively deaerated in a controlled, step-by-step manner. Furthermore, the control of product deaeration may comprise adjusting a pressure applied to the pressure bar and / or adjusting a pressure applied by the pressure bar to the press belt.

[00144] The pressure bar is controlled with fluid, such as air or oil, or by means of mechanical pressure, such as a mechanical device.

[00145] In this way, the average thickness of product 9 can be reduced. In this way, variations in product thickness can be regulated, such as variations in thickness in the feed direction, and / or variations in thickness in a direction transverse to the feed direction. In this way, it can be promoted that the longitudinal movement and / or the rolling of the pressure damper 55 can be reduced, whereby a desired operating pressure P0, such as greater than 25 bar, can be promoted. It is further promoted that the longevity of the seals 58, between the pressure damper 55 and the press table 51, which may be in the form of gaskets, is extended, since the vertical distance of the press belt and the pressure damper will be displaced when receiving a product, can thus be reduced.

[00146] For example, the pressure bar can pre-compress the product from about 15.2 mm to about 12.5 mm, and the press device subsequently compresses the product from about 12.5 mm to about 11.7 mm, Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, pp. 39 / 80 32 / 64

[00147] Due to one or more pressure bars, the press belt can be pushed to contact the product. In this way, heat is transferred more efficiently from the press belt to the product. In this way, the product 9 can be preheated upstream of the pressure zone. In this way, the binder can be activated, that is, quickly become liquid, that is, more easily, that is, in an upstream position in the feed direction. This can promote more time available for the product to cure under pressure in the pressure zone, with which an improved quality of the final product can be promoted.

[00148] A surface layer 12, in the form of a veneer layer, can, in some way, insulate the binder from heat. Therefore, when applying a veneer layer to the product, so that the binder is contained within the sublayer 11, spaced between the core 10 and the veneer, it may have the effect that more heat is required to liquefy the binder. Thus, it may be advantageous to preheat the product 9.

[00149] A lower surface of one or more of the pressure bars P1, P-1, in the vertical direction V, may be configured to extend in a plane vertically below a lower surface of the inlet drum 42, preferably when the product 9 is fed by the press device 80.

[00150] As explained in relation to the exemplary embodiments of Figures 4A - C, the press device 50 can be fitted with various configurations of pressure bars. As mentioned, one or more pressure bars, provided upstream of the pressure zone 70, which can be provided by means of a pressure damper 55, can promote the gradual increase of the pressure applied to the product 9 in the feeding direction. Thus, in a preferred embodiment, one or more pressure bars Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, pages 40 / 80 33 / 64 pressure bars are provided upstream of the pressure damper 55, as derivable, for example, from Figure 10. For example, with reference to Figure 5C, a first pressure bar P1' may apply a pressure of 20 bar, a subsequent pressure bar P2 a pressure of 25 bar, and a subsequent third pressure bar P3 a pressure of 30 bar. The number of pressure bars in the press device, upstream of the pressure zone, preferably upstream of the pressure damper, can thus be adapted to obtain a desired rate of increase in the applied pressure along the feed direction, or to avoid a sudden increase in the pressure applied to the product during laminate manufacturing.Generally speaking, it is known that, in a sequence of pressure bars arranged upstream of the pressure zone, a subsequent pressure bar can be configured to apply a pressure at least equal to, and preferably greater than, the pressure applied by the pressure bar preceding the subsequent pressure bar.

[00151] The corresponding principle can be applied downstream of the pressure zone, as illustrated in Figure 5C, with the aim of promoting a more regular decrease in pressure or pressure relief downstream of the pressure zone, preferably downstream of the pressure damper 55. Also, as shown in Figure 5D, the feature of providing one or more pressure bars upstream of the pressure zone 70, preferably upstream of the pressure damper 55, can be combined with the feature of providing one or more pressure bars downstream of the pressure zone. In general, it is known that, in a sequence of pressure bars arranged upstream of the pressure zone, a subsequent pressure bar can be configured to apply a pressure at least equal to, preferably greater than, a pressure applied by the pressure bar preceding the subsequent pressure bar. This can be propitiation 870240069974, dated 16 / 08 / 2024, page 41 / 80 34 / 64 move the product to cool gradually in the feed direction while under pressure by means of one or more pressure bars. In this way, the pressure applied to the product by means of the pressure bars can gradually decrease, as the vapor pressure of the product moisture also decreases during product cooling. For example, as shown in Figure 5D, the pressure P0 can be 35 bar, whereby the third pressure bar P-1 applies 30 bar and the fourth pressure bar P-2 applies 25 bar. A subsequent fifth pressure bar (not shown) can apply a pressure of 20 bar. This device can mitigate or at least reduce the occurrence of bubbles in the product, which can be caused by a very sudden increase in the pressure applied to the product, whereby vapor can be expelled from a layer of the product and cause bubbles.

[00152] The principle mentioned above for the pressure applied by the pressure bars can be expressed as P1 < P2 < P3 < ... < Pm < P0 and / or Pm ... > P-3 > P-2 > P-1, where the positive numbers indicate a pressure applied upstream of the pressure zone 70, preferably upstream of the pressure damper 55, and the negative numbers indicate a pressure applied downstream of the pressure zone 70, preferably upstream of the pressure damper 55, in the feed direction. In this way, a pressure curve can be obtained by the press device 80.

[00153] For example, one or more pressure bars may apply one or more pressures of 15, 20, 25, 30, 35 bar, upstream of the pressure zone, preferably upstream of the pressure damper, and one or more pressure bars may apply one or more pressures of 35, 30, 25, 20, 15 bar, downstream of the pressure zone, preferably downstream of the pressure damper in the FD feed direction.

[00154] The pressure bar may comprise a material termi Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, page 42 / 80 35 / 64 highly resistant, such as a composite, for example, a composite comprising carbon, such as a graphite composite.

[00155] The grooved / recessed pressure bar does not make continuous contact with the press belt in a direction transverse to the feed direction.

[00156] The press device 80, according to the embodiments of the first aspect, may comprise one or more temperature-controlled zones Za, Zb, Zc, Zd in the feed direction, as shown in Figures 7, 8 and 9, in relation to the third aspect. The temperature zones may comprise segments of the press device, which may be individually heated or cooled, for example, by means of circulating air. In particular, it may be the press belt, which is heated or cooled in the respective temperature zones. The circulating air, in each temperature zone, may be heated or cooled to promote stable curing of the product or reduction of the product's vapor pressure.

[00157] In all respects, the press belt 40, 41 can also be passively cooled by allowing it to cool itself. For example, the press belt can collect heat from the inlet drum and then passively cool along the product path. The press belt can be passively cooled, for example, by heat transfer to the product and / or thermal radiation to the environment. In this way, the energy transferred to the product can be controlled, for example, limited so that a desired vapor pressure of the product and / or the core temperature of the product is / are obtained in the outlet drums. Thus, in this context, passive cooling of the press belt can result in at least a part of the press belt not being heated, as it propagates along the feed direction, in contact with the product, for example, one or more temperature zones can be Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, pp. 43 / 80 36 / 64 configured to not transfer heat to the press belt.

[00158] Figure 6 shows an exemplary embodiment of a second aspect of the invention. The second aspect can be advantageously combined with embodiments of the other aspects described in this descriptive report, such as the first and / or third aspects. The distance between the inlet drums 42, 43, such as the shortest distance or the distance between their respective longitudinal central axes Ax1, Ax2, can be adapted to reduce the distance between the press belt 40, 41 and the product 9, upstream of the press table 51, optionally, upstream of one or more pressure bars P1, P2, which can be provided upstream of the press table 51. In a preferred embodiment, the distance is adapted so that an angle φ between the product 9 and the press belt 40, 41 is greater than zero and less than 10 degrees.

[00159] The angle fi can be in the range of 0.3 to 1.5 degrees, preferably 0.4 to 1 degree, particularly 0.5 to 0.8 degrees, especially around 0.5 degrees. In this respect, the use of a wood veneer can be advantageous since, as mentioned, the wood veneer can insulate the sublayer and thus protect it from the heat of the press belt 40, 41, downstream of the central shaft of the input drums Ax1, Ax2. In traditional laminate production, as explained in this descriptive report, the surface layer is typically substantially thinner than a wood veneer, and can be, for example, substantially damaged by heat from the press belt if the angle fi is too small, whereby the press belt comes very close to the product.Furthermore, because this thin, traditional surface layer, such as 0.2 mm, may not isolate the sublayer, preheating by reducing the angle phi, as explained in this descriptive report, may not be desirable, since it could melt and / or destroy the binder. Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, pp. 44 / 80 37 / 64

[00160] Preferably, the binder can be heated to a point where it melts or becomes active only under the influence of pressure, thus in the pressure zone 70. The distance can be adapted so that the position of the first contact position 3, between the press belt and the product, occurs earlier and / or is moved upstream in the feed direction FD, for example, when the product moves in the feed direction. By moving the first contact position 3 upstream in the feed direction, heat can be transferred more efficiently to the product, in an earlier case, i.e., upstream. Also, due to the reduced angle phi, thermal radiation can heat the product more efficiently. This configuration can additionally lead to the advantage of preheating the product, whereby the binder can become liquid more quickly.

[00161] In this way, the active area of ​​the pressure zone, that is, the area in which the binder is in the liquid state and the curing process can be anticipated, is increased. Because the active area of ​​the pressure zone is increased, it is possible to reduce the size of the pressure zone, thus achieving improved manufacturing process economy.

[00162] As mentioned, a surface layer, in the form of a veneer layer, can, to some degree, insulate the binder from heat. Therefore, when applying a veneer layer to the product, so that the binder is contained in a spaced layer between the core and the veneer, it may have the effect that more heat is required to liquefy the binder. Thus, preheating the product may be advantageous.

[00163] By adjusting a first contact position 3, between the press belt and the product and / or by adjusting the vertical position of one or more of the inlet drums 42, 43 for the product route, Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, pp. 45 / 80 38 / 64 A surface layer 12 of product 9, which may comprise a veneer, can be positioned and / or held in place. In this way, the distortion of the veneer's shape due to heat exposure can be attenuated or at least reduced to some extent. It was further achieved that heat can be conducted directly from the press belt to the product by means of conduction. It is understood that, in this way, the heat transferred from the press belt to the product can be increased. In this way, less heat can also be lost due to heat radiation being dissipated to the environment.

[00164] Due to the reduction of the angle phi, a greater portion of the thermal radiation from the press belt serves to heat the product, thus preheating the product. Due to the reduction of the angle phi, a larger portion of the press belt can be placed closer to the product, thus facilitating preheating. Consequently, the distance in the feed direction, downstream of the inlet drum, required for the binder to reach the liquid state, can be reduced. Thus, the point along the feed direction where thermal conductivity is increased due to liquefaction / phase change of the binder will occur earlier, thus increasing the active part of the pressure zone available for stable curing. In other words, the remaining distance or area, i.e., the active area available for stable curing, can be increased, thus improving product quality.

[00165] By adjusting the angle fi and / or adjusting the point of first contact of the press belt with the product, the pressure zone, necessary to obtain a stable cure of the binder, can be reduced, thus the continuous press device can be manufactured more cheaply, thus the process and the construction panel can be more economical. Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, pp. 46 / 80 39 / 64

[00166] Consequently, the preheating of the product can be adapted by adjusting the distance between the press belt 40, 41 and the product 9 by adjusting the angle fi.

[00167] Consequently, the angles fi can be adapted to promote that a first contact position 3, between the respective press belts and a product 9, arranged in the product route 9, occurs upstream of the press table 51 and downstream of a respective central axis Ax1, Ax2 of the infeed drums.

[00168] Figures 7, 8 and 9A - C show exemplary embodiments of a third aspect of the invention. The third aspect can be advantageously combined with embodiments of the other aspects described in this descriptive report, such as the first and / or second aspect. In the third aspect, a sealing system 53 is provided.

[00169] In any embodiment of the sealing system shown in Figures 9A - 9C, 14 and 15, 59 a fluid pressure Pc can be applied to the pressure chamber 59. The pressure Pc can be provided pneumatically or hydraulically. In the embodiment of Figures 16A - 16B, the pressure Pc is provided, at least partially, by means of a mechanical pressure device.

[00170] Figures 9A - 9C show exemplary embodiments of a sealing system 53 according to the invention. The sealing element 58 can seal against an outer side of the pressure damper 55 or the pressure zone 70, having a first pressure Pa, such as atmospheric pressure, and, on the opposite side, such as the interior of the pressure damper 55, against a second pressure P0, such as the pressure in the pressure zone 70. The pressure gradient between Pc and P0 can be significantly greater than the pressure gradient between Pc and P0, such as 20 times greater. The P0 / Pa ratio can be at least 20. Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, pp. 47 / 80 40 / 64

[00171] Consequently, an outer edge portion of the sealing element 58, such as in a horizontal direction away from the center of the pressure damper 55, which seals between Pc and Pa, may be subjected to more stress on the opposite inner portion, which seals between pressures Pc and Pa, due to the displacement of the pressure damper 55 in combination with the greater pressure gradient. The stress may cause greater wear on said outer portion of the sealing element 58, and may negatively affect the longevity of the sealing element 58.

[00172] As discussed, the pressure zone 70 may comprise a pressurizable volume. The pressurizable volume may be formed on a horizontally inner side of the displacement groove 60, that is, towards a press table center 51. The displacement groove 60 may extend continuously on the press table 51 to form an essentially rectangular groove in the horizontal plane H. The displacement groove 60 may comprise rounded corners in the horizontal plane H, as shown in Figure 8.

[00173] It should be emphasized that the sealing systems can be configured to promote a pressure zone 70 in the form of a pressurizable space or volume, between the pressure damper 55, the press table 51 and the press belt 40. The pressure zone 70 can be pressurized, such as filled, with fluid, such as compressed air or oil.

[00174] Figure 14 shows an exemplary embodiment of another sealing system according to the invention. With reference to Figure 14, the sealing element 57 has been omitted. The sealing structure 57 is configured to seal against the displacement groove. In particular, the sealing structure provides a seal between the pressure chamber 59 and the pressure Pa, such as ambient pressure. The ambient pressure may be atmospheric pressure. In particular, the structure of Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, pp. 48 / 80 41 / 64 seal 56 provides a seal between the pressure chamber 59 and the pressure P0 in the pressure zone. This can be achieved by configuring the seal structure so that it has sufficiently small tolerances and / or a tight fit in the displacement groove 60.

[00175] Figure 15 shows an exemplary embodiment of yet another sealing system according to the invention. With reference to Figure 15, the friction sealing element is configured to seal against the displacement groove. In particular, the friction sealing element provides a seal between the pressure chamber 59 and the pressure Pa, such as ambient pressure. The ambient pressure can be atmospheric pressure. In particular, the friction sealing element provides a seal between the pressure chamber 59 and the pressure P0 in the pressure zone. This can be achieved by configuring the friction sealing element 57 so that it has sufficiently small tolerances and / or a tight fit in the displacement groove 60.

[00176] Figures 16A - 16B show an exemplary embodiment of yet another sealing system according to the invention. With reference to Figures 16A - 16B, the friction sealing element 57 is, as in the embodiment of Figure 15, configured to seal against the displacement groove. In particular, the friction sealing element provides a seal between the pressure chamber 59 and the pressure Pa, such as ambient pressure. In particular, the friction sealing element provides a seal between the pressure chamber 59 and the pressure P0 in the pressure zone. This can be achieved by configuring the friction sealing element 57 so that it has sufficiently small tolerances and / or a tight fit in the displacement groove 60. The sealing structure 56 is connected to the friction sealing element 57, which moves with it in response to the pressure applied to the sealing structure 56. A damper 73, such as a love Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, pp. 49 / 80 42 / 64 rubber weaver, can be spaced between the seal structure 56 and the friction sealing element 57.

[00177] One or more of the sealing systems in Figures 14 - 15, 16A - 16B can be advantageously combined along the length of the displacement groove 60, as explained above.

[00178] The sealing device 53 can be configured to promote the pressure zone 70 in a continuous press device. In particular, the sealing device can comprise a sealing structure 60, configured to be received on a press table 50 of the press device 50.

[00179] In particular, the sealing system may form part of the pressure damper 55 and comprise a seal structure 56, configured to be received on a press table 51 of the press device 50. In particular, the sealing system may, in some embodiments, comprise the seal structure 56 of the pressure damper 55 embodiments, the seal structure 56 configured to be received on a press table 51 of the press device 50.

[00180] The seal structure 56 can be configured to move linearly within a displacement groove 60 of the press table 51.

[00181] The seal structure 56 can be configured to move linearly, at least partially, within a displacement groove 60 of the press table 51.

[00182] The displacement groove 60 may comprise an innermost wall 61, with adjacent, opposite side walls 62, 63.

[00183] The seal structure 56 may comprise a steel structure. The seal structure 56 may have an inner end portion, adjacent to an innermost wall of the displacement groove 60, Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, pages 50 / 80 43 / 64 and an outer end portion, adjacent to an opening of the displacement groove.

[00184] As schematically illustrated in Figures 9A - 9B, 14, 15 and 16A - 16B, the pressure zone 70 may comprise a volume sealed by means of the friction sealing element 57, providing a seal at least between the pressure zone and the ambient pressure Pa, when configured to slide seal against the press belt. In some embodiments, the sealing element 58 provides a seal between the pressure chamber 59 and a sealing structure 56, thus effectively closing a pressurizable part of the displacement groove 60 of the pressure zone. In some embodiments, the friction sealing element 57 additionally provides a seal between the pressure chamber 59, the pressure zone 70 and the ambient pressure Pa, thus effectively closing a pressurizable part of the displacement groove 60 of the pressure zone 70 and the ambient pressure Pa.

[00185] In some embodiments, the sealing element 58 or friction sealing element 57 can seal an inner wall, such as the innermost wall 61 of the displacement groove 60, against an adjacent inner end part of the seal structure 56 to form a closed pressure chamber or space. In this way, the pressure chamber 59 can be sealed from the pressure zone 70. The pressure chamber 59 can be configured to be pressurized, for example, by pneumatic or hydraulic pressure. By providing a pressure chamber 59, configured to be pressurized, it is possible to promote that the sealing element 58 and the seal structure 56 and / or the friction seal element 57 can be displaced under the action of the pressure from the pressure chamber 59. In this way, it is facilitated that the friction seal 57, which is preferably disposed very close to the press belt 40, 41, can Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, pp. 51 / 80 44 / 64 to be placed in contact with, and apply a clamping pressure, corresponding to Pc on, press belt 40, where Pc is dependent on the pressure provided in the pressure chamber 59.

[00186] The clamping pressure Pc may preferably be higher than the operating pressure P0, provided in the pressure zone 70. For example, the clamping pressure Pc may be approximately 40 bar and the operating pressure P0 approximately 35 bar.

[00187] The friction sealing element 57 may comprise a composite, such as a low-friction composite, for example, a graphite composite, capable of withstanding temperatures of at least 250°C.

[00188] The sealing element 58 may comprise a gasket, such as a rubber gasket.

[00189] The sealing element 58 may comprise a substantially U-shaped cross-section, which is open upwards in the direction of the inner wall 61 of the displacement groove.

[00190] The sealing element 58 may comprise a substantially U-shaped cross-section, which is open upwards in the direction of the pressure chamber 59. In this way, a pressure, such as fluid pressure, within the U-shaped sealing element 58, may cause the U-shaped sealing element to be driven into the side walls 62, 63 of the displacement groove 60. In this way, an improved sealing function may be promoted.

[00191] The U-shaped sealing element 58, as derived from Figures 9A - 9C, comprises two parallel walls configured to extend parallel to the respective side walls 62, 63 of the displacement groove 60. Thus, a pressure, such as the fluid pressure in the pressure chamber 59 and within the U-shaped sealing element 58, can cause the element Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, pp. 52 / 80 45 / 64 of the U-shaped seal is pushed into the side walls 62, 63 of the displacement groove 60. In this way, an improved sealing function can be promoted.

[00192] In particular, the side wall 58a of the sealing element 58 can be driven into the side wall 63 or the displacement groove 60, and the side wall 58b of the sealing element 58 can be driven into the side wall 62 of the displacement groove 60.

[00193] The sealing element 58 can be at least partially sandwiched between a bar 58c, such as a steel bar, and the sealing structure 56. The bar 58c can be disposed within the U-shaped sealing element 58 and fastened to the sealing structure 56, for example, by fastening means extending through the sealing element 58. The fastening means can comprise screws with or without nuts, or similar. In this way, a firm position and orientation of the sealing element in the displacement groove can be promoted.

[00194] The sealing element 58 may comprise an asymmetrical shape. Due to the asymmetrical shape, it may be advantageous to fix the orientation of the sealing element in the displacement groove.

[00195] The displacement groove 60, the sealing element 56, the sealing element 58 and the friction sealing element 57 can extend continuously along the periphery of the pressure damper 55, as shown in Figure 8. The friction sealing element 57 can constitute a lower part, optionally also an outer part, of the pressure damper.

[00196] The displacement groove 60 may be tapered, such as to become narrower in, for example, a stepped manner, in a direction from the groove opening to the inner wall 61. A portion of the displacement groove 60, adjacent to the inner surface, may comprise a smaller cross-sectional area, in a plan Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, pp. 53 / 80 46 / 64 in the horizontal H, and a portion of the displacement groove, adjacent to the opening, may have a larger cross-sectional area. The seal structure may comprise a shape corresponding to the shape of the displacement groove.

[00197] An outer end of the seal structure may comprise means for securing the friction sealing element, such as by fixing the groove, configured to receive the sealing element, for example, by sliding it.

[00198] The sealing element can be fixed to the seal structure and can thus move, preferably linearly, with the seal structure 56. The sealing element is preferably configured to contact the press belt.

[00199] An outer end of the friction sealing element 57 can be disposed outside the displacement groove, an inner end of the sealing element can be disposed inside the displacement groove. The entire seal structure can be disposed inside the displacement groove.

[00200] The seal structure can be configured to move in the displacement groove under the action of a fluid pressure in the pressure chamber 59, such as a pneumatic pressure. The sealing element can be forced to move in one direction towards the press belt, in response to a fluid pressure applied in the pressure chamber 59.

[00201] The press device 50 is configured to apply a clamping pressure Pc to the press belt by means of the friction sealing element 57. The clamping pressure Pc may correspond to the pressure provided in the pressure chamber 59.

[00202] According to the invention, the pressure damper 55 may comprise combinations of any of the embodiments of the sealing systems shown in Figures 8, 9A - 9B, 14, 15 and 16A. Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, pp. 54 / 80 47 / 64 16B. Thus, according to the embodiments, one or more sections of the pressure damper 55 may comprise different sealing systems, such as for sealing between Pc and Pa and P0, respectively.

[00203] For example, as shown in Figures 8 and 16A, a corner section 78 of the pressure damper 55, such as a corner section 78 in which a vertical displacement of the pressure damper 55 is greater, such as closer to the inlet drums 42, 43, may comprise a sealing system, which is different from that of another section 79, such as a section of a long edge of the pressure damper 55.

[00204] In other words, in a non-limiting example, cross-section B - B (see Figure 8), taken on a long side of pressure damper 55, may comprise an embodiment of the sealing system shown in Figures 9A - 9B, 14, 15 and 16A - 16B, and cross-section C - C (see Figures 8 and 16A), taken on a corner section 78 of pressure damper 55, may comprise an embodiment of the sealing system shown in Figures 9A - 9B, 14, 15 and 16A - 16B, which may be different from the sealing system of cross-section B - B.

[00205] With reference to Figure 10, a fourth embodiment of the invention is shown, comprising a continuous press device 80''', combining any embodiments of one or more of the first, second and third aspects. As derivable from Figure 10, at least one pressure bar P1, P2 can be provided on the press table 51, in a position upstream of the pressure damper 55. In particular, at least one pressure bar P1, P2 can be provided on the press table 51, in a position upstream of the pressure damper 55, in the feed direction FD, preferably upstream of the whole. Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, pp. 55 / 80 48 / 64 pressure damper 55.

[00206] As a derivable from Figure 10, other pressure bars P-1, P-2 can be provided on the press table 51 in the respective positions downstream of the pressure damper 55. In particular, other pressure bars P-1, P-2 can be provided on the press table 51, in the respective positions downstream of the pressure damper 55, in the feed direction FD, preferably downstream of the entire pressure damper 55.

[00207] It is understood that the pressure bars may preferably be provided outside the pressure zone 70, provided within the seal structure 56 of the pressure damper 55.

[00208] With reference to Figure 11, a fifth embodiment of the invention is shown, comprising a continuous press device 100, wherein any of the embodiments of the first aspect and, optionally, any of the embodiments of the second aspect may be combined in a separate continuous pre-press 81, followed, in the feed direction, by another continuous press 82, which may comprise any of the embodiments of the third aspect. ITEMS ITEM 1

[00209] A continuous press device 80 for manufacturing building panels, such as floor or wall panels, comprising:

[00210] a rotating inlet drum, upper 42, connecting to a rotating outlet drum, upper 44 by means of a continuous press belt, upper 40, and a rotating inlet drum, lower 43, connecting to a rotating outlet drum, lower 45 by means of a continuous press belt, lower 41; said lower and upper press belts configured to form a production route Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, pp. 56 / 80 49 / 64 to 6 between them to feed a product 9 in a feed direction FD, in response to the rotation of said drums or the displacement of said press belt(s); and

[00211] a lower and an upper press table 51, 51', each comprising at least one movable pressure damper 55, configured to be moved to a sealing contact with the press belt 40, 41, to promote a pressure zone 70, preferably in the form of a pressurizable volume extending along at least a part of said route 6. ITEM 2

[00212] Device, according to item 1, wherein the device 80 comprises one or more pressure bars P1, P2, P3, P-1, P-2, P-3, arranged upstream and / or downstream of the pressure damper 55, in the feed direction FD, wherein said one or more pressure bars are configured to apply pressure to the upper press belt and / or the lower press belt, respectively, in a direction for the product route. ITEM 3

[00213] Device, according to item 2, in which the said pressure bar(s) are provided on the press table 51, 51', and / or between the press table 51 and the inlet drum 42, and / or between the press table 51 and the outlet drum 44. ITEM 4

[00214] Device, according to item 2 or 3 above, wherein said pressure bar(s) extend in a horizontal plane H and in a direction transverse to the direction of supply FD, preferably at least along the entire pressure damper, particularly at least along a friction sealing element 57 of the pressure damper 55. ITEM 5 Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, pp. 57 / 80 50 / 64

[00215] Device, according to any of the preceding items 2 to 4, wherein one or more of said pressure bars are configured to pre-compress the product 9, when it is fed in the product route 6, at a position upstream of said pressure zone 70, preferably upstream of said pressure damper 55, and downstream of a respective central shaft Ax1, Ax2 of said inlet drums in the feed direction. ITEM 6

[00216] Device, according to any of the preceding items 2 to 5, in which one or more pressure bars constitute non-rotating elements, fixed to the press table and configured to slide against the press belt, in response to the rotation of said drums 42, 43, 44 and 45. ITEM 7

[00217] Device, according to any of the preceding items 2 to 6, in which one or more pressure bars constitute rotating elements, fixed to the press table and configured to roll against the press belt, in response to the rotation of said drums 42, 43, 44 and 45. ITEM 8

[00218] Device, according to any of the preceding items 2 to 7, in which one or more pressure bars are arranged successively in a sequence in the direction of supply. ITEM 9

[00219] Device, according to any of the preceding items 2 to 8, in which a subsequent pressure bar P2 of a sequence of pressure bars P1, P2, P3, arranged upstream of the pressure damper, in a supply direction, is configured to apply a pressure at least equal to, preferably exceeding, the pressure exerted by a preceding pressure bar P1. Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, pp. 58 / 80 51 / 64 in that sequence. ITEM 10

[00220] Device, according to any of the preceding items 2 to 9, in which a subsequent pressure bar (P-2), in a sequence of pressure bars P-1, P-2, P-3, arranged downstream of said pressure damper, is configured to apply a pressure not exceeding, preferably, a pressure of a magnitude less than that exerted by a previous pressure bar (P-1) in said sequence. ITEM 11

[00221] Device, according to any of the preceding items 2 to 10, in which a fluid pressure, acting on said pressure bars, is individually controlled for one or more of the pressure bars. ITEM 12

[00222] Device, according to any of the preceding items 1 to 11, wherein the product 9 comprises a core 9, a sublayer provided in the core 9, and a surface layer 12, provided in the sublayer. ITEM 13

[00223] Device, according to item 12, in which said one or more pressure bars are configured to control the deaeration of said product 9, such as a sublayer (11) comprising powder or granules. ITEM 14

[00224] Device, according to any of the preceding items 2 to 13, in which said one or more pressure bars are configured to apply a compression pressure corresponding to 50-80% of an operating pressure (P0), applied by the pressure zone 70, preferably 60-80%, particularly 70-80%. Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, pp. 59 / 80 52 / 64 ITEM 15

[00225] Device, according to any of the preceding items 2 to 14, in which said one or more pressure bars are configured to promote preheating of the product upstream of the pressure damper (55) by means of pushing the press belt onto the product. ITEM 16

[00226] Device, according to any of the preceding items 1 to 15, wherein said pressure zone (70) is a pressurizable volume, formed between the pressure damper (55) and the press belt (40), said pressurizable space configured to be pressurized by means of pneumatic pressure. ITEM 17

[00227] Device, according to any of the preceding items 1 to 16, wherein said pressure damper (55) is configured to be moved vertically for sealing contact with the press belt (40), to promote said pressure zone (70), wherein the pressure zone (70) comprises a sealed volume. ITEM 18

[00228] Device, according to any of the preceding items 2 to 17, in which one or more of the pressure bars comprise at least one circular cross-section, such as provided in the form of a cylinder, such as a rotating cylinder. ITEM 19

[00229] Device, according to any of the preceding items 2 to 18, in which one or more pressure bars are movably attached to the press table, preferably in a vertical direction. ITEM 20

[00230] Device, in accordance with any of the preceding items 2 to 19, in which said one or more pressure bars comprise Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, pages 60 / 80 53 / 64 of a resistant material, preferably at a temperature of at least 250°C, such as a composite, such as a composite comprising carbon, such as graphite. ITEM 21

[00231] Device, according to any of the preceding items 2 to 20, wherein one or more of said pressure bars are configured to apply pressure to the press belt by means of a fluid pressure acting on said pressure bars, such as pneumatic pressure, such as air, or hydraulic pressure, such as hydraulic fluid or oil. ITEM 22

[00232] Device, according to item 21 above, in which said fluid pressure, acting on said pressure bars, is individually controlled for one or more of the pressure bars. ITEM 23

[00233] Device, according to any of the preceding items 2 to 22, in which said one or more pressure bars are configured to apply a compression pressure corresponding to 50-95% of a pressure Pc, applied by the pressure damper of the press belt, preferably 60-90%, particularly 75-85%. ITEM 24

[00234] Device, according to any of the preceding items 1 to 23, wherein the said product route has a height, measured from the lower press belt to the upper press belt, and a width, extending in a direction transverse to the feed direction. ITEM 25

[00235] Device, according to any of the preceding items 1 to 24, in which each press belt extends continuously around the respective press table 51, 51'. ITEM 26 Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, pp. 61 / 80 54 / 64

[00236] Device, according to any of the preceding items 12 to 25, wherein said one or more pressure bars are configured to continuously expel air from one or more sublayers 11 of a product 9, while it is fed through the product route 6. ITEM 27

[00237] Device, according to any of the preceding items 12 to 26, in which said pressure damper 55 is configured to reduce the thickness of the sublayer 11 and / or a surface layer 12 of the product 9, and / or the height of said product route 6. ITEM 28

[00238] Device, according to any of the preceding items 2 to 27, in which one or more of the pressure bars are received in the respective grooves in the press table. ITEM 29

[00239] Device, according to any of the preceding items 2 to 28, in which one or more of the pressure bars are arranged between the press table 51 and said inlet drum 42. ITEM 30

[00240] Device, according to any of the preceding items 2 to 29, in which one or more pressure bars are arranged between the press table 51 and said outer drum 44. ITEM 31

[00241] Device, according to any of the preceding items 1 to 30, wherein said press table 51, 51' comprises a displacement groove 60, and said pressure damper 55 is configured to be received, at least partially, in said displacement groove 60. ITEM 32

[00242] Device, according to any of the preceding items 1 to 31, wherein said pressure damper 55 comprises a Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, pp. 62 / 80 55 / 64 friction sealing element 57, configured to be in contact with the press belt. ITEM 33

[00243] Device, according to any of the preceding items 1 to 32, wherein said pressure damper 55 is configured to move in a vertical direction V to the press belt, in response to a pressure applied to said displacement groove 60. ITEM 34

[00244] Device, according to any of the preceding items 1 to 33, wherein said pressure damper 55 is configured to move in a vertical direction V towards the press belt, in response to a pressure applied to a pressure damper 55, preferably by said displacement groove 60. ITEM 35

[00245] Device, according to any of the preceding items 32 to 34, in which said sealing element 58 and / or the seal structure and / or the friction sealing element 57 separates, in a sealed manner, a pressure chamber 59 and the pressure zone 70, in which said pressure, applied to said pressure damper 55, is applied by the pressure chamber 59. ITEM 36

[00246] Device, according to the preceding item 35, wherein said sealing element 58 and / or the seal structure and / or the friction sealing element 57 is or are configured to form said pressure chamber 59 with an inner wall 61, 62, 63 of the displacement groove 60. ITEM 37

[00247] Continuous press device 80, according to any of the preceding items 1 to 36, wherein said pressure damper Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, pp. 63 / 80 56 / 64 comprises a seal structure 56, configured to be received in said displacement groove 60. ITEM 38

[00248] Continuous press device 80, according to any of the preceding items 1 to 37, wherein said seal structure 56 is configured to move in a vertical direction V in said displacement groove 60, in response to pressure applied in said displacement groove 60. ITEM 39

[00249] Continuous press device 80, according to any of the preceding items 3 to 38, wherein the seal structure 56 is configured to be connected to the friction sealing element 57. ITEM 40

[00250] Continuous press device 80, according to any of the preceding items 32 to 39, wherein the sealing structure 56 is configured to seal against the pressure applied to said displacement groove 60, such as against a fluid creating the pressure. ITEM 41

[00251] Continuous press device 80, according to any of the preceding items 32 to 30, wherein the seal structure 56 is configured to be connected to a sealing element 58, wherein the sealing element 58 is configured to seal against the pressure applied to said displacement groove 60, such as against a fluid creating the pressure. ITEM 42

[00252] Continuous press device 80, according to any of the preceding items 34 to 41, wherein the pressure applied to said displacement groove 60, or to the pressure chamber 59, is provided in the form of pneumatic pressure, such as pressurized fluid, such as pressurized air. Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, pages 64 / 80 57 / 64 ITEM 43

[00253] Continuous press device 80, according to any of the preceding items 34 to 42, wherein the pressure applied to said displacement groove 60, or to the pressure chamber 59, is provided in the form of hydraulic pressure, such as hydraulic fluid, such as water or oil. ITEM 44

[00254] Continuous press device 80, according to any of the preceding items 34 to 43, wherein the friction sealing element 57 is configured to seal against the pressure applied in said displacement groove 60, such as against a fluid creating the pressure. ITEM 45

[00255] Continuous press device 80, according to any of the preceding items 34 to 44, wherein the pressure applied to the pressure damper 55 is provided by means of a mechanical device 71, such as a hydraulic spring, displaceable in said displacement groove. ITEM 46

[00256] Continuous press device 80, according to any of the preceding items 1 to 45, wherein the product 9 is a laminated product, containing one or more sublayers 11 and one or more surface layers 12. ITEM 47

[00257] Continuous press device 80, according to any of the preceding items 1 to 46, wherein one or more of the surface layers 12 comprises veneer. ITEM 48

[00258] Continuous press device 80, according to any of the preceding items 1 to 47, wherein one or more of the layers are Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, pp. 65 / 80 58 / 64 interposed between a surface layer 12 and a core 10 of product 9, wherein the sublayer 11 is provided in powder form. ITEM 49

[00259] Device, according to any of the preceding items 37 to 48, wherein said sealing element 58 is fastened to said sealing structure 56 and configured to move with the sealing structure, while sealing against the inner walls 62, 63 of the displacement groove 60. ITEM 50

[00260] Device, according to any of the preceding items 32 to 49, wherein said sealing element 58 or seal structure 56 or friction sealing element 57 is configured to isolate an inner wall 61, 62, 63, such as an innermost wall 61 or a bottom wall of the displacement groove, from the pressure zone 70. ITEM 51

[00261] Device, according to any of the preceding items 35 to 50, in which the pressure chamber 59 is configured to be pressurized, for example, by being configured to be in fluid connection with a fluid pressure source, such as pneumatic pressure, such as an accumulator and / or compressor. ITEM 52

[00262] Device, according to any of the preceding items 37 to 51, in which said seal structure 56 is configured to move to place the friction sealing element 57 in contact with said press belt to promote the sealing of the pressure zone 70, formed between said press belt, the pressure damper 55 and the press table 51. ITEM 53

[00263] Device, in accordance with any of the preceding items Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, pages 66 / 80 59 / 64 res 32 a 52, wherein the friction sealing element 57 comprises a composite, such as a composite comprising carbon, for example, a graphite composite. ITEM 54

[00264] Device, according to any of the preceding items 31 to 53, in which the displacement groove 60 extends continuously along, and essentially parallel to, the outer edges of the press table 51. ITEM 55

[00265] Device, according to any of the preceding items 36 to 54, wherein the sealing element 58 comprises a gasket, such as a rubber gasket, configured to seal slidingly against the inner walls of the displacement groove. ITEM 56

[00266] Device, according to any of the preceding items 1 to 55, in which the infeed drums are configured to form the respective angles fi, between the respective press belts 40, 41 and the product route 6, in a position that is downstream of the infeed drums and upstream of the pressure damper 55 or the press table 51, in the feed direction FD. ITEM 57

[00267] Device, according to item 56, in which said angle phi is greater than zero. ITEM 58

[00268] Device, according to the previous item 56 or 57, in which the size of the angles fi is adapted by adapting a distance between the respective central axes Ax1, Ax2 of the input drums, such as a vertical distance V. ITEM 59

[00269] Device, in accordance with any of the preceding items Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, pp. 67 / 80 60 / 64 res 56 to 58, wherein said angles fi are adapted to promote that a first contact position 3, between the respective press belts 40 and a product 9, arranged in the product route 9, occurs upstream of the pressure damper 55, preferably upstream of the press table 51, and downstream of a respective central axis Ax1, Ax2 of the infeed drums.

[00270] ITEM 60

[00271] Device, according to any of the preceding items 56 to 59, wherein the angle phi is in the range of 0.3 to 1.5 degrees, preferably 0.4 to 1.0 degrees, particularly 0.5 to 0.8 degrees. ITEM 61

[00272] A method for manufacturing building panels 1, such as floor or wall panels, by means of a continuous press device 80, having an upper rotating input drum 42 connected to an upper rotating output drum 44 by means of an upper continuous press belt 40, and a lower rotating input drum 43 connected to a lower rotating output drum 45 by means of a lower continuous press belt 41; said upper and lower press belts configured to form a product route 6 between them for feeding a product in a feed direction FD, in response to the rotation of said drums; a lower and an upper press table 51, each comprising a movable pressure damper 55, configured to promote a pressure zone 70 extending along at least a portion of said route 6. ITEM 62

[00273] The method, according to item 61, comprising: - to provide one or more pressure bars P1, P2, P3 in one or more positions, upstream of said pressure damper and downstream of the inlet drums 42, 43 of said device of Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, pages 68 / 80 61 / 64 press, in the feeding direction; and - configure said pressure bars to successively pre-compress said product 9 along the feed direction, thereby reducing its thickness. ITEM 63

[00274] The method, according to item 61 or 62, also comprising: - to provide a product comprising a core 10, a sublayer 11 and a surface layer 12 on said sublayer 11; and - feeding said product, in a feed direction FD, to a product route 6 of said continuous press device. ITEM 64

[00275] The method, according to item 63, in which said sublayer 11 comprises a powder and / or granules. ITEM 65

[00276] The method, according to item 63, in which said surface layer 12 comprises a veneer layer, such as wood veneer, and / or a paper layer. ITEM 66

[00277] The method, according to any of items 61 to 65, also including: - provide one or more pressure bars P-1, P-2, P-3 in one or more positions downstream of said pressure damper 55, in the FD feed direction; and - configure said pressure bars P-1, P-2, P-3, arranged downstream of said pressure damper, to successively apply reduced pressures to said product along the feed direction. ITEM 67 Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, pages 69 / 80 62 / 64

[00278] The method, according to any of the preceding items 61 to 66, in which an angle fi is formed between the press belt 40 and the product 9, at a position downstream of a central axis Ax1, Ax2 of the inlet drums 42, 43 in the feed direction, and upstream of the pressure damper 55, preferably upstream of the press table 51. ITEM 68

[00279] The method, according to item 67, further comprising adapting a position of the first contact 3, between the product 9 and the press belt 40, 41, in the feed direction, by adapting the angle phi. ITEM 69

[00280] The method, according to item 67 or 68, further comprising adapting the preheating of product 9 by adapting the distance between the press belt and the product by adjusting the angle fi. ITEM 70

[00281] The method, according to any of the preceding items 67 to 69, in which said angles fi are adapted to promote that a first contact position 3, between the respective press belts and a product 9, arranged in the product route, occurs upstream of the pressure damper and downstream of a respective central axis Ax1, Ax2 of the infeed drums. ITEM 71

[00282] The method, according to any of items 68 to 70, in which the angle adaptation (fi) comprises adapting a vertical position of the input drum 42, 43. ITEM 72

[00283] The method, according to any of items 67 to 71, wherein the angle phi is in the range of 0.3 to 1.5 degrees, preferably 0.4 to 1.0 degrees, particularly 0.5 to 0.8 degrees. Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, pages 70 / 80 63 / 64 ITEM 73

[00284] The method, according to any of the preceding items 67 to 72, in which said first layer comprises a powder or granules. ITEM 74

[00285] The method, according to any of the preceding items 67 to 73, in which providing the first layer 11 is followed by providing a second layer 12, such as a layer of veneer or paper, on the said first layer (11). ITEM 75

[00286] The method, according to any of items 67 to 74, further comprising providing a support layer 15 on said product, said support layer being provided on one side of the sheet opposite the first layer, preferably said support layer comprising a sublayer 11 and a surface layer 12. ITEM 76

[00287] A continuous press device 80 for manufacturing building panels, such as floor or wall panels, comprising:

[00288] a rotating upper inlet drum 42 connecting to a rotating upper outlet drum 44 by means of a continuous upper press belt 40, and a rotating lower inlet drum 43 connecting to a rotating lower outlet drum 45 by means of a continuous lower press belt 41; said lower and upper press belts configured to form a product path 6 between them to feed a product 9 in a feed direction FD, in response to the rotation of said drums; and

[00289] an upper and a lower press table 51, 51'', a Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, pp. 71 / 80 64 / 64 or more of said press tables comprising a movable pressure damper 55, configured to promote a pressure zone 70 extending along at least part of said route, wherein at least one of said press tables 51, 51'' comprises one or more pressure bars P1, P2, P3, P-1, P-2, P-3, arranged upstream of the pressure damper, in the feed direction, wherein said one or more pressure bars are configured to apply pressure to the upper press belt and / or the lower press belt, respectively, in a direction towards the product route, wherein the device comprises a continuous pre-press device 81, wherein said pressure bars are provided on the press table 51'' of the pre-press device 81. ITEM 77

[00290] A continuous pre-press device 81 for use in the device according to item 69, said device comprising:

[00291] a rotating upper inlet drum 42'', connecting to a rotating upper outlet drum 44 by means of a continuous upper press belt 40, and a rotating lower inlet drum 43, connecting to a rotating lower outlet drum 45 by means of a continuous lower press belt 41; said lower and upper press belts configured to form a product route 6 between them to feed a product 9 in a feed direction FD, in response to the rotation of said drums;and a lower and an upper press table 51'', wherein at least one of said press tables 51'' comprises one or more pressure bars P1, P2, P3, arranged upstream of the pressure buffer, in the feed direction, wherein said one or more pressure bars are configured to apply pressure to the upper press belt 40'' and / or the lower press belt 41'', respectively, in a direction towards the product path. Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, pp. 72 / 80

Claims

1 / 4 CLAIMS 1. Continuous press device (80) for manufacturing building panels, such as floor or wall panels, characterized in that it comprises: an upper rotary inlet drum (42), connecting to an upper rotary outlet drum (44) by means of an upper continuous press belt (40), and a lower rotary inlet drum (43), connecting to a lower rotary outlet drum (45) by means of a lower continuous press belt (41); said upper and lower press belts configured to form a product path (6) between them to feed a product (9) in a feed direction (FD) in response to the rotation of said drums or the displacement of said press belts;and a lower and an upper press table (51, 51'), each comprising at least one movable pressure damper (55) configured to be moved to a sealing contact with the press belt (40, 41), to promote a pressure zone (70), preferably in the form of a pressurizable volume extending along at least a part of said route (6), wherein the inlet drums are configured to form the respective angles (fi) between the respective press belts (40, 41) and the product route (6) at a position downstream of the inlet drums and upstream of the pressure damper (55) or press table (51), in the feed direction (FD), and wherein the size of the angles (fi) is adapted by adapting a distance between a respective central axis (Ax1, Ax2) of the inlet drums, such as a vertical distance (V).; 2. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the said angle (phi) is greater than zero.

3. Device, according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by the fact that said angles (fi) are adapted to facilitate that a first contact position (3) between the respective press belts (40) and a product (9) disposed in the product path (6) occurs upstream of the pressure damper (55), preferably upstream of the press table (51), and downstream of a respective central axis (Ax1, Ax2) of the infeed drums.

4. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the angle (phi) is in the range of 0.3 to 1.5 degrees, preferably 0.4 to 1 degree, more preferably 0.5 to 0.8 degrees.

5. Method of manufacturing building panels, such as floor or wall panels, by means of a continuous press arrangement (80) having an upper rotary infeed drum (42) connected to an upper rotary outfeed drum (44) by means of a continuous press belt (40) and a lower rotary infeed drum (43) connected to a lower rotary outfeed drum (45) by means of a lower continuous press belt (41); said upper and lower press belts configured to form a product route (6) between them to feed a product in a feed direction (FD) in response to the rotation of said drums;an upper and lower press table (51), each comprising a movable pressure damper (55) configured to facilitate a pressure zone (70) extending along at least a portion of said route (6), wherein an angle (fi) is formed between the press belt (40) and the product (9) at a position downstream of a central axis (Ax1, Ax2) of the inlet drums (42, 43) in the feed direction and upstream of the pressure damper (55), preferably upstream of the press table (51), characterized in that the method also comprises Petition 870240069974, dated 08 / 16 / 2024, page. 74 / 80 3 / 4 ende adapt the preheating of the product (9) by adapting the distance between the pressure belt (40, 41) and the product by adapting the angle (fi), and wherein adapting the angle (fi) comprises adapting a vertical position of the inlet drum (42, 43); 6. Method according to claim 5, characterized in that it further comprises providing a product comprising a core (10), a sublayer (11) and a surface layer (12) in said sublayer (11); feeding said product in a feeding direction (FD) to a product route (6) of said continuous press device.

7. Method according to claim 6, characterized in that said sublayer (11) comprises a powder and / or a granule.

8. Method according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that said surface layer (12) comprises a veneer layer, such as a wood veneer and / or a paper layer.

9. Method, according to any one of claims 5 to 8, characterized in that it further comprises adapting a first contact position (3) between the product (9) and the respective press belt (40, 41), in the feed direction (FD), adapting the angle (fi).

10. Method, according to any one of claims 5 to 9, characterized in that said angles (fi) are adapted to facilitate that a first contact position (3) between the respective press belts (40, 41) and a product (9) disposed in the product path (6) occurs upstream of the pressure damper (55) and downstream of the respective central axis (Ax1, Ax2) of the inlet drums (42, 43).

11. Method, according to any one of claims 5 to 10, characterized in that the angle (phi) is in the range of 0.3 to 1.5 degrees, preferably 0.4 to 1 degree, more preferably 0.5 to 0.8 degrees.

12. Method, according to any one of claims 5 to 11, characterized in that it further comprises providing a support layer (15) to said product, said support layer being provided on one side of the core (10) opposite the surface layer (12), preferably said support layer (15) comprising an additional sublayer and an additional surface layer. Petition 870240069974, dated 16 / 08 / 2024, pp. 76 / 80

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