Mechanical connection arrangement for panels

Abstract

A mechanical connection arrangement for panels (1, 2) includes a first panel (1), a second panel (2), and a mechanical locking device for locking the first panel (1) to the second panel (2). One surface of the first panel (1) is parallel to one surface of the second panel (2) and contacts the first and second panels (1, 2) in locked positions. The mechanical locking device includes at least one rod-shaped element (3) located at said surface of the first panel (1) and at least one corresponding insertion recess (4) located at said surface of the second panel (2). The rod-shaped element (3) is configured to be inserted into said insertion recess (4). A lateral surface of the rod-shaped element (3) extends from said surface (21) of the first panel (1) at a first angle (α), and a lateral surface of the insertion recess (4) extends from said surface of the second panel (2) into the second panel (2) at a second angle (β). In the unlocked position of the first and second panels (1, 2), the difference between the first angle (α) and the second angle (β) is between 0.5# and 6#, between 2# and 4#, or about 3#. The rod-shaped element (3) and the insertion recess (4) are configured such that the difference between the first angle (α) and the second angle (β) is smaller in the locked position compared to the unlocked position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a mechanical connection arrangement for a panel and a method of connecting panels using the same arrangement. The arrangement includes a first panel, a second panel, and a mechanical locking device for locking the first panel to the second panel. The surfaces of the first panel and the second panel are parallel and contact each other at locked positions. The mechanical locking device includes at least one rod-shaped element located on the surface of the first panel and at least one corresponding insertion recess located on the surface of the second panel. The rod-shaped element is configured to be inserted into the insertion recess. The rod-shaped element extends from the surface of the first panel at a first angle. The insertion recess extends from the surface of the second panel into the second panel at a second angle. Background Technology

[0002] In the past, assembling two or more objects into a single component (such as furniture) required tools such as drills, screwdrivers, hammers, and wrenches.

[0003] Starting with click-lock flooring, tool-free assembly has been further developed, and to some extent, all types of household furniture can be assembled without tools or with at most a minimal amount of tools.

[0004] WO 2020 / 046193 discloses a set of panels including a first panel, a second panel, and a mechanical locking device for locking the first panel to the second panel. The first panel includes a first edge surface, and the second panel includes a second panel surface. The mechanical locking device includes at least one rod-shaped element extending from the first edge surface at a first angle. An insertion groove extends from the second panel surface into the second panel surface at a second angle. The mechanical locking device also includes at least one locking groove and at least one locking portion. The locking groove includes at least one locking surface extending from the first edge surface or from the second panel surface at a third angle. The locking portion is configured to insert into the locking groove and lock against the locking surface. The third angle differs from the first angle.

[0005] WO 2020 / 046194 discloses a set of panels including a first panel, a second panel, and a mechanical locking device for locking the first panel to the second panel. The first panel includes a first edge surface, and the second panel includes a second panel surface. The mechanical locking device includes at least one rod-like element located at the first edge surface and at least one insertion groove located at the second panel surface. The rod-like element is configured to be inserted into the insertion groove. The set of panels also includes a back panel configured to be inserted into and cooperate with at least one of the first and second panel grooves, and at least one locking gear configured to cooperate with the back panel and the first and / or second panel groove for locking the first panel to the second panel. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Therefore, embodiments of this disclosure preferably seek to provide alternative installation solutions that require minimal tools and facilitate a close fit between two panels by providing a mechanical connection arrangement according to the invention and a method for connecting panels using such a mechanical connection arrangement.

[0007] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a mechanical connection arrangement for a panel includes a first panel, a second panel, and a mechanical locking device for locking the first panel to the second panel. One surface of the first panel is parallel to one surface of the second panel and contacts the first and second panels in their locked positions. The mechanical locking device includes at least one rod-like element located at said surface of the first panel and at least one corresponding insertion recess located at said surface of the second panel. The rod-like element is configured to be inserted into the insertion recess. A side of the rod-like element extends from said surface of the first panel at a first angle, and a side of the insertion recess extends from said surface of the second panel into the second panel at a second angle. In the unlocked positions of the first and second panels, the difference between the first and second angles is in the range of about 0.5° to about 6°, wherein the rod-like element and the insertion recess are arranged such that the difference between the first and second angles is smaller in the locked position than in the unlocked position.

[0008] In the context of this disclosure, a panel is a flat component made of building material, formed either as part of or forming an entire surface. Generally, panels used for furniture are rectangular, such that they have two opposing flat side surfaces and four pairs of parallel edge surfaces. However, panels with other shapes, such as triangular panels, are not excluded. Furthermore, in the context of this disclosure, panels with at least one beveled edge, each beveled typically at 45°, are also considered, allowing two panels to form a miter joint.

[0009] Furthermore, the rod-shaped element can have the same large cross-sectional area along its entire length, and the insertion recess has a corresponding shape. In another possible embodiment, the rod-shaped element can have a frustum shape, and the insertion recess can have a shape that allows for misalignment between the angles of the rod-shaped element and the side of the insertion recess. Thus, this concept can be realized, for example, by a cylindrical rod-shaped element and an insertion recess with an inwardly narrowing cross-section.

[0010] In modern production facilities, angular tolerances during drilling / hole fabrication are typically well below 0.5°. One key concept of this approach is that when connecting two panels using rod-shaped elements and insert recesses, the angle of the insert recess in one panel is intentionally misaligned with the angle of the rod-shaped element protruding from the other panel. For ease of understanding, the insert recess can be a cylindrical hole with its axis at a specific angle relative to the surface from which the hole opens. The rod-shaped element can be cylindrical, i.e., having a cylindrical cross-section, and its axis at another angle relative to the surface from which it protrudes. Typically, panels with rod-shaped elements are made by inserting the rod-shaped element into a hole drilled or otherwise formed in the panel.

[0011] The intentional misalignment of the insert recess and the rod element provides a tighter fit between the two panels because by pressing the panels together so that the surfaces of the first and second panels are in full contact with each other, the rod element can be partially compressed inside the insert recess to undergo plastic and / or elastic deformation, and / or partially compressed on the sides of the rod element inside the insert recess to undergo plastic and / or elastic deformation, and / or plastically and / or elastically bend. Compared to the case where the insert recess and rod element are typically aligned for a typical plug and socket connection, the deformation / compression of the insert recess and / or rod element will provide a more robust connection between the two panels. This is because the rod element and the insert recess are arranged such that the difference between the first and second angles is smaller in the locked position of the panel than in the unlocked position.

[0012] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the difference between the first angle and the second angle in the unlocked position can be in the range of about 0.5° to about 6°, about 2° to about 4°, or about 3°. This angle range may be advantageous for applications involving furniture panels.

[0013] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the rod-shaped element is made of a material that is harder than the core of at least the second panel. Therefore, the interior of the second panel undergoes slightly greater compression / deformation compared to the rod-shaped element.

[0014] According to an alternative aspect of this disclosure, the second panel has an outer layer adjacent to the surface, the hardness of which is greater than that of the material in the core of the panel. The opening of the insertion recess is more likely to be unaffected by compression / deformation, which is advantageous for positioning the two panels relative to each other. Specifically, the interior of the panel will be compressed / deformed before the opening of the insertion recess is compressed / deformed.

[0015] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the rod-shaped element is made of one or a combination of wood-based materials, polymers, and metals.

[0016] Regarding materials, further, according to one aspect of this disclosure, at least the core of the second panel is wood-based or plastic, said plastic having or not having filler.

[0017] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the rod-shaped element is cylindrical and the insertion recess has a circular cross-section. The diameter of the rod-shaped element is about 90% to 98% of the diameter of the insertion recess, or more preferably 92% to 97% of the diameter of the insertion recess, and most preferably 94% to 96% of the diameter of the insertion recess.

[0018] According to another aspect, both the first and second angles are in the range of 30° to 60°, and more preferably in the range of 40° to 50°. Traditionally, when assembling furniture, the rod-shaped elements and corresponding insert recesses are vertically aligned, i.e., at a 90° angle. However, for a non-aligned strategy, it has been shown that deviating from vertical alignment is advantageous. Furthermore, if both panels each have a 45° beveled edge and these beveled edges will be joined to form a miter joint, then the angle is also preferably deviated from the conventional vertical alignment (i.e., relative to the contact surface of the panels).

[0019] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the thickness of the second panel is greater than the diameter of the cylindrical rod-shaped element and less than three times the diameter of the cylindrical rod-shaped element.

[0020] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the first angle is smaller than the second angle. This is slightly advantageous for the assembly of the two panels. However, the locking principle still applies to the opposite case, i.e., the first angle is larger than the second angle.

[0021] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the contact length between the rod-shaped element and the insertion recess on the side closest to the panel with the insertion recess is greater than the radius of the cylindrical rod-shaped element and less than twice the diameter of the rod-shaped element. If the contact length is too short, the locking performance will be greatly reduced. If the contact length is too long, the tensile force or load on the rod-shaped element and / or the insertion recess may exceed its strength, and the rod-shaped element and / or the panel with the insertion recess may break instead of fitting tightly and locking. Moreover, an excessively long contact length may prevent the two panels from contacting each other.

[0022] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the insertion recess has a countersunk hole. This is particularly advantageous if the panel with the insertion recess has an outer layer that is harder than the panel core. By making the countersunk hole correspond to the thickness of the harder outer layer, the rod-shaped element can be prevented from affecting the surface of the second panel. Moreover, the harder surface will not affect the rod-shaped element. Depending on the contrast between the material composition in the panel and the rod-shaped element, if the countersunk hole is not present, the rod-shaped element may press against the edge of the insertion recess, thereby deforming the surface around the insertion recess.

[0023] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the first panel further includes a second rod-shaped element extending at the same angle as the first rod-shaped element, wherein the second rod-shaped element is shorter than the first rod-shaped element. Therefore, the second rod-shaped element will not extend as far in its insertion recess in the second panel as the first rod-shaped element. This makes the assembly / connection of the two panels easier. For example, if there are more than two rod-shaped elements for a connection (aspect), the rod-shaped elements every other one can be shorter.

[0024] To further secure the connection between the two panels, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the connection arrangement further includes a locking arrangement. This locking arrangement is configured such that the rod-shaped element and the insertion recess will not separate, and therefore the two panels will not separate. For example, a spring-loaded element extending at a different angle from the rod-shaped element can be arranged such that when the two panels are in their final / desired position relative to each other, the spring-loaded element snaps into the insertion recess. Alternatively, a simple screw or nail can be inserted to prevent the rod-shaped element from moving axially out of the insertion recess.

[0025] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a method is provided for connecting two panels to each other using the arrangement structure disclosed above. The method includes placing a panel having a rod-like element such that the end of the rod-like element is positioned at an insertion recess in a second panel, and aligning the axis of the rod-like element with the axis of the insertion recess.

[0026] Furthermore, the panels are pressed together by inserting rod-shaped elements into the insertion recesses to bring the panels together, and by partially compressing the interior of the insertion recesses with the rod-shaped elements to cause plastic and / or elastic deformation, and / or by partially compressing the sides of the rod-shaped elements inside the insertion recesses to cause plastic and / or elastic deformation, and / or by causing the rod-shaped elements to bend plastically and / or elastically, so that the surfaces of the first panel and the second panel are in complete contact with each other and enter the locked position.

[0027] It should be emphasized that the term "comprising / including" as used in this specification is used to indicate the presence of the stated feature, integral, step or component, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, components or clusters thereof.

[0028] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent when examined in conjunction with the appended claims and the following description. Those skilled in the art will recognize that different features of the invention can be combined to create other embodiments besides those described below without departing from the scope of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0029] These and other aspects, features, and advantages that can be achieved by embodiments of the present invention will be apparent and elucidated from the following description of embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0030] Figure 1 This is a partial cross-sectional view according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 2 This is a partial side view according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A partial perspective view of the embodiment shown.

[0033] Figure 4 This is a perspective view according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of an optional recessed portion according to the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 6 This is a side view of an alternative embodiment of the connection device according to the present disclosure.

[0036] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of two panels attached to each other using the connecting means disclosed herein.

[0037] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A partial enlarged view of the device shown.

[0038] Figure 9 This is a side view of a countersunk hole made in a panel.

[0039] Figure 10 After removing the drill bit Figure 9 Side view of the panel in the middle.

[0040] Figure 11 This is a partial side view showing the insertion recess and rod-shaped element before the two panels are joined.

[0041] Figure 12 This is a partial side view showing the rod-shaped element in the insertion recess during the first contact stage.

[0042] Figure 13 This is a partial side view of a rod-shaped element in another embodiment of the insertion recess, showing it in the first contact phase.

[0043] Figure 14 This is a partial side view showing the rod-shaped element fully inserted into the insertion recess.

[0044] Figure 15This is a side view of the two panels in the first contact stage.

[0045] Figure 16 This is a side view of another embodiment of the two panels in the first contact phase, and

[0046] Figure 17 This is a side view of the two panels in the locked phase. Detailed Implementation

[0047] Specific embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the invention can be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. The terminology used in the detailed description of the embodiments illustrated in the drawings is not intended to limit the invention. In the drawings and description, similar reference numerals refer to similar elements.

[0048] Figure 1 A mechanical connection arrangement for panels 1 and 2 is shown, comprising a first panel 1, a second panel 2, and a mechanical locking device for locking the first panel 1 to the second panel 2. Surface 21 of the first panel 1 and surface 22 of the second panel 2 are parallel and contact each other at their locked positions. The mechanical locking device includes a rod-shaped element 3 located on the surface of the first panel 1 and a corresponding insertion recess 4 located on the surface of the second panel 2. The rod-shaped element 3 is inserted into the insertion recess 4. The rod-shaped element 3 extends from the surface 21 of the first panel 1 at a first angle α', and the insertion recess 4 extends from the surface of the second panel 2 into the second panel 2 at a second angle β'.

[0049] Figure 1 A first panel 1 and a second panel 2 are shown in the locked position. In the locked position, the difference between the first angle α' and the second angle β' is in the range of about 0° to about 3°, and more preferably in the range of about 1° to about 2°. In the illustrated embodiment, the first angle α' is smaller than the second angle β'.

[0050] The first panel 1 and / or the second panel 2 may be wood-based panels, such as MDF, HDF, OSB, WPC, plywood, or particleboard.

[0051] The first panel 1 and / or the second panel 2 may contain plastic materials, such as thermosetting or thermoplastic plastics, such as vinyl, PVC, PU, ​​or PET. The plastic materials may contain fillers.

[0052] The first panel 1 and / or the second panel 2 may also include solid wood panels.

[0053] The first panel 1 and / or the second panel 2 may include decorative layers, such as foil or finishes, on one or more surfaces.

[0054] See Figure 7 The thickness 31 of the first panel 1 and / or the thickness 32 of the second panel 2 may be in the range of about 8 mm to about 30 mm, or in the range of about 12 mm to about 25 mm, or about 20 mm.

[0055] Figure 1 The diagram also shows a second panel 2 having an outer layer 6 adjacent to the surface, the outer layer 6 having a higher hardness than the material in the core 5 of the panel. For example, the second panel 2 may be a wood-based material compressed on the top and bottom surfaces of the panel 2, such that the outer layer 6 closest to the surface has a higher density and is therefore harder. The thickness of the outer layer 6 may be 0.5 to 4 mm, for example 1 to 3 mm, or 1.5 to 2.5 mm.

[0056] Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the rod-shaped element 3 is made of a material with a hardness greater than that of the core 5 of the second panel 2. Hardness can be measured using the Brinell hardness test according to ASTM E10-18, or for wood-based materials using the King's hardness test according to ASTM D143-21. In this embodiment, the relative hardness can be represented by the fact that the rod-shaped element 3 remains unaffected, i.e., it still retains a uniform diameter. Moreover, in the insertion recess 4, on the side closest to the surface, the rod-shaped element 3 has been pressed into the core of the panel, causing that side of the insertion recess to be compressed. This is an effect of misalignment or a difference in angles α and β.

[0057] The insertion recess 4 includes an upper side surface 14 and an opposite lower side surface 16.

[0058] In the illustrated embodiment, the rod-shaped element 3 is cylindrical and the insertion recess 4 has a circular cross-section. The diameter of the rod-shaped element 3 is about 90% to 98% of the diameter of the insertion recess 4, or more preferably 92% to 97% of the diameter of the insertion recess 4, and most preferably 94% to 96% of the diameter of the insertion recess 4. An example of a preferred diameter is that the diameter of the rod-shaped element 3 is 8 mm and the diameter of the insertion recess 4 is 8.4 mm.

[0059] If the second panel 2 is made of a wood-based material, it is preferred that the rod element 3 is also made of a wood-based material. However, any combination is feasible; for example, if the panel is wood-based or plastic (with or without filler), the rod element can be made of one or a combination of wood-based materials, polymers, and metals. Exemplary fillers may include one or more of chalk, glass fiber, or carbon fiber.

[0060] In one embodiment, both the first angle α and the second angle β are in the range of 30° to 60°, and more preferably in the range of 40° to 50°, or about 45°, as shown in the embodiment.

[0061] In one embodiment, the thickness of the second panel 2 is greater than the diameter of the rod-shaped element 3 but less than three times the diameter of the rod-shaped element 3. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the contact length between the rod-shaped element 3 and the insertion recess 4 on the upper side 14 is longer than the radius of the rod-shaped element 3 but shorter than twice the diameter of the rod-shaped element 3.

[0062] Therefore, during assembly, the panel 1 with the rod-shaped element 3 is positioned such that the end of the rod-shaped element 3 is positioned at the opening of the insertion recess 4 of the second panel, and the axis of the rod-shaped element 3 is aligned with the axis of the insertion recess 4. Next, the panels 1 and 2 are brought together by inserting the rod-shaped element 3 into the insertion recess 4. Finally, the panels 1 and 2 are pressed together by partially compressing the interior of the insertion recess 4 with the rod-shaped element 3, so that the surfaces of the first panel 1 and the second panel 2 are in complete contact with each other and enter a locked position. The compression causes partial plastic and / or elastic deformation of the sides of the rod-shaped element 3, and / or plastic and / or elastic deformation of the interior of the insertion recess, and / or plastic and / or elastic bending of the rod-shaped element 3. In the example shown, only the interior of the insertion recess 4 undergoes plastic and / or elastic deformation due to compression. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, since the outer layer 6 of the panel 2 is harder than the core 5 of the panel 2, the opening of the insertion recess 4 serves as the pivot point of the rod-like element. That is, when the panels 1 and 2 are pressed together into full contact with each other, only or at least primarily the core 5 is affected by the misalignment between the axis of the rod-like element 3 and the axis of the insertion recess 4.

[0063] exist Figure 1 In the case where the contact surface of panel 1 is the edge surface and the contact surface of panel 2 is the face surface, panel 1 with rod-shaped element 3 can be considered as a cuboid.

[0064] Go to Figure 2-4 , which shows Figure 1An alternative to the contact surface shown is illustrated. One edge of each panel 1, 2 has a beveled shape, and these beveled edges contact each other to form a miter joint. These figures illustrate a mechanical connection arrangement for panels 1, 2, comprising a first panel 1, a second panel 2, and a mechanical locking device for locking the first panel 1 to the second panel 2. A surface of the first panel 1 is parallel to a surface of the second panel 2 and contacts the first panel 1 and the second panel 2 in their locked positions. The mechanical locking device comprises a rod-like element 3 located at the surface of the first panel 1 and a corresponding insertion recess 4 located at the surface of the second panel 2. The rod-like element 3 is inserted into the insertion recess 4. The rod-like element 3 extends from the surface of the first panel 1 at a first angle, and the insertion recess 4 extends from the surface of the second panel 2 into the second panel 2 at a second angle.

[0065] In the locked position, the difference between the first angle α' and the second angle β' can be in the range of about 0° to about 3°, and more preferably in the range of about 1° to about 2°. In the illustrated embodiment, the first angle α' is smaller than the second angle β'.

[0066] exist Figure 2-4 In the illustrated embodiment, the rod-shaped element 3 is cylindrical and the insertion recess 4 has a circular cross-section. The diameter of the rod-shaped element 3 is about 90% to 98% of the diameter of the insertion recess 4, or more preferably 92% to 97% of the diameter of the recess 4, and most preferably 94% to 96% of the diameter of the insertion recess 4. An example of a preferred diameter is that the diameter of the rod-shaped element 3 is 8 mm and the diameter of the insertion recess 4 is 8.4 mm.

[0067] If the second panel 2 is made of a wood-based material, it is preferred that the rod element 3 is also made of a wood-based material. However, any combination is feasible; for example, if the panel is wood-based or plastic (with or without filler), the rod element can be made of one or a combination of wood-based materials, polymers, and metals.

[0068] In one embodiment, both the first and second angles are in the range of 30° to 60°, and more preferably in the range of 40° to 50°.

[0069] In one embodiment, the thickness of the second panel 2 is greater than the diameter of the rod-shaped element 3 but less than three times the diameter of the rod-shaped element 3. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the contact length between the rod-shaped element 3 and the insertion recess 4 on the upper side 14 is longer than the radius of the rod-shaped element 3 but shorter than twice the diameter of the rod-shaped element 3.

[0070] Therefore, during assembly, the panel 1 with the rod-shaped element 3 is positioned such that the end of the rod-shaped element 3 is positioned at the opening 7 of the insertion recess 4 of the second panel, and the axis of the rod-shaped element 3 is aligned with the axis of the insertion recess 4. Next, the panels 1 and 2 are brought together by inserting the rod-shaped element 3 into the insertion recess 4. Finally, the panels 1 and 2 are pressed together by partially compressing the interior of the insertion recess 4 with the rod-shaped element 3, so that the surfaces of the first panel 1 and the second panel 2 are in complete contact with each other and enter a locked position. The compression causes partial plastic and / or elastic deformation of the sides of the rod-shaped element 3, and / or plastic and / or elastic deformation of the interior of the insertion recess, and / or plastic and / or elastic bending of the rod-shaped element 3. In the example shown, only the interior of the insertion recess 4 undergoes plastic and / or elastic deformation due to compression.

[0071] To ensure a more stable connection between the two panels 1 and 2, at least two mechanical locking devices should be arranged along the contact surface, and preferably they should be evenly distributed. Figure 4 The image shows three locking devices.

[0072] In the pre-assembly step, the rod-shaped element 3 is typically pushed / pressed into a much tighter insertion recess in the first panel 1. It is generally preferred that the rod-shaped element 3 extends longer into the first panel than its length extending into the insertion recess 4 of the second panel 2. In other words, the portion of the rod-shaped element 3 embedded in the insertion recess 4 in the assembled state of the two panels 1, 2 is shorter in length than the portion embedded in the first panel 1.

[0073] exist Figure 5 In the diagram, the insertion recess 4 is shown as having a countersunk hole 8. The insertion recess 4 includes an upper side surface 14 and an opposing lower side surface 16. The insertion recess 4 includes a countersunk hole 8 located at the lower side surface 16, for example, at an angle of 45° to 270°, or for example, 90° to 180°, along the circumference of the insertion recess 4. If as... Figure 6 It is particularly advantageous that the panel 2 with the insertion recess 4 has an outer layer 6 that is harder than the core 5 of the panel 2. Making the countersunk hole 8 correspond to the thickness of the harder outer layer 6 prevents the rod-shaped elements 3 and 9 from affecting the surface of the second panel 2. Furthermore, the harder outer layer does not affect the rod-shaped elements 3 and 9. Depending on the combination of materials in the panel 2 and the comparison with the rod-shaped elements 3 and 9, if the countersunk hole 8 were not present, the rod-shaped elements 3 and 9 might press against the edge of the insertion recess, thereby deforming the surface surrounding the insertion recess 4.

[0074] In addition, Figure 6 In this embodiment, the first panel also includes another rod-shaped element 9 extending at the same angle as the first rod-shaped element 3. In one embodiment, the second rod-shaped element 9 will not extend as far into the insertion recess 4 of the second panel 2 as the first rod-shaped element 3.

[0075] like Figure 6 As shown, the second rod-shaped element 9 is shorter than the first rod-shaped element 3 and is arranged such that the second rod-shaped element 9 does not extend as far into the insertion recess 4 of the second panel 2 as the first rod-shaped element 3. In another embodiment, the second rod-shaped element 9 is embedded more deeply in the first panel 1, such that the second rod-shaped element 9 does not extend as far into the insertion recess 4 of the second panel 2 as the first rod-shaped element 3. Because the second rod-shaped element 9 does not extend as far into the insertion recess 4 of the second panel 2 as the first rod-shaped element 3, it allows for easier assembly / connection of the two panels.

[0076] When assembling / connecting two panels, the first rod-shaped element 3 is first inserted into its insertion recess, and the second rod-shaped element 9 enters its insertion recess 4 only when the connection is nearly complete. A smaller force can be used to finally press the first panel toward the second panel 2 compared to when both rod-shaped elements are of equal length. Preferably, the longer rod-shaped element is positioned closest to the corners of the two panels being connected. For example, in Figure 7 In the diagram, if only one of the rod-shaped elements is the longer one, then it should be the one furthest from the right side. The longer rod-shaped element forms a stronger connection between the two panels because the contact surface between the rod-shaped element and the insertion recess is larger, and it also provides higher friction due to greater compression caused by misalignment.

[0077] To further secure the connection between the two panels 1 and 2, the connection arrangement may further include locking arrangements 10 and 11. These locking arrangements are configured such that the rod-shaped elements 3 and 9 and the insertion recess 4 will not separate, and therefore the two panels 1 and 2 will also not separate. Figure 7 and 8 The diagram shows how the spring-loaded element 10 extends at a different angle than the rod-shaped elements 3, 9, and how the spring-loaded element 10 is arranged to snap into the recess 11 when the two panels 1, 2 are in their final / desired positions relative to each other.

[0078] Go to Figure 9 and 10 As can be seen, the drill bit 12 forms the countersunk hole 8 in the second panel 2. When the surface of the panel 2 is made of a material that is harder than the panel core or even harder than the rod element 3, the countersunk hole 8 enables an intentional misalignment between the rod element 8 and the insertion recess 4.

[0079] like Figure 11As can be seen, when the second panel 2 has a larger opening for the rod-shaped element 3 to "discover," the two panels 1 and 2 can be installed together more easily. The countersunk hole can have the following effect: reducing the force required for the rod-shaped element 3 to enter the insertion recess 4.

[0080] Figure 11 The first panel 1 and the second panel 2 are shown in the unlocked position. The lateral surface of the rod-shaped element 3 extends from the surface 21 of the first panel 1 at a first angle α, and the lateral surface of the insertion recess 4 extends from the surface 22 of the second panel 2 into the second panel 2 at a second angle β.

[0081] In the unlocked position, the difference between the first angle (α) and the second angle (β) can be in the range of about 0.5° to about 6°, about 2° to about 4°, or about 3°.

[0082] The insertion recess 4 includes an upper side surface 14 and an opposite lower side surface 16. The second panel 2 may include a countersunk hole 8 located at the opening 7 of the insertion recess 4 and at the lower side surface 16 of the insertion recess 4.

[0083] The second panel 2 may include a bevel 23 located at the edge of the opening of the insertion recess 4 and at the upper side surface 16 of the recess 16. The bevel 23 is configured to blunt the edge of the opening. When the rod-shaped element 3 is moved into the insertion recess 4, the blunt edge prevents the edge from cutting into the rod-shaped element 3.

[0084] Go to Figure 12 The rod-shaped element 3 is moved into the insertion recess 4.

[0085] Initially, the upper edge 13 of the rod-shaped element 3 can contact the upper side surface 14 of the insertion recess 4. The lower edge 15 of the rod-shaped element 3 can be a certain distance away from the lower side surface 16 of the insertion recess 4.

[0086] Figure 13 An embodiment of the insertion recess 4 excluding the countersunk hole is shown. In this embodiment, the rod-shaped element 3 is pressed against the lower side surface 16 of the insertion recess 4 at the opening of the insertion recess 4.

[0087] exist Figure 14 In the locked position, the panels 1 and 2 are in the locked position, and due to compression, the side of the rod element 3 undergoes partial plastic and / or elastic deformation and / or the interior of the insertion recess undergoes plastic and / or elastic deformation and / or the rod element 3 is plastically and / or elastically bent, increasing the contact between the rod element 3 and the insertion recess 4, thereby reducing the angle difference between the rod element 3 and the insertion recess 4 in the locked position.

[0088] In the locked position, the lower edge 15 of the rod-shaped element 3 can be a certain distance away from the lower side surface 16 of the insertion recess 4.

[0089] In the locked position, the upper edge 13 of the rod-shaped element 3 can contact the upper side surface 14 of the insertion recess 4.

[0090] In the locked position, the difference between the first angle (α) and the second angle (β) can be in the range of about 0° to about 3°, in the range of about 2° to about 4°, or about 3°.

[0091] In the locked position, the difference between the first angle α' and the second angle β' can be in the range of about 0° to about 3°, more preferably in the range of about 1° to about 2°. In the illustrated embodiment, the first angle α' is smaller than the second angle β'.

[0092] Figure 11-14 The two panels 1 and 2 are shown to be connected to each other in the following way:

[0093] • The panel 1 with the rod-shaped element 3 is positioned such that the end of the rod-shaped element 3 is positioned at the opening 7 of the insertion recess 4 of the second panel, and the axis of the rod-shaped element 3 is aligned with the axis of the insertion recess 4.

[0094] • By inserting the rod-shaped element 3 into the insertion recess 4, the panels 1 and 2 are brought together.

[0095] • By partially compressing the interior of the insertion recess 4 with the rod-shaped element 3 to cause plastic and / or elastic deformation, and / or by partially compressing the side of the rod-shaped element 3 inside the insertion recess to cause plastic and / or elastic deformation, and / or by causing the rod-shaped element 3 to bend plastically and / or elastically, the panels 1 and 2 are pressed together, such that the surfaces of the first panel 1 and the second panel 2 are in complete contact with each other and enter the locking position.

[0096] Figure 15 The connection of the two panels 1, 2 is shown, and more specifically, the function of one embodiment of the locking arrangement structure 10, 11 is shown, wherein the end of the spring-loaded element 10 makes initial contact with the surface of the second panel 2.

[0097] Figure 16 The diagram illustrates a connection of panels 1 and 2 using an insertion recess 4 that does not include a countersunk hole. In this embodiment, the rod-shaped element 3 is pressed against the lower side 16 of the insertion recess.

[0098] exist Figure 17 The image shows two panels 1 and 2 in the locked position, with the end of the spring-loaded element 10 pushed to its final position in the recess 11. To unlock the two panels 1 and 2, a tool (not shown) can be inserted into the groove 17 of the first panel 1 to press the inclined surface 18 of the spring-loaded element 10.

[0099] Other embodiments of the present invention are described below:

[0100] 1. A mechanical connection arrangement for panels 1 and 2, comprising a first panel 1, a second panel 2, and a mechanical locking device for locking the first panel 1 to the second panel 2, wherein a surface 21 of the first panel 1 is parallel to a surface 22 of the second panel 2 and contacts the first panel 1 and the second panel 2 at a locked position, the mechanical locking device comprising at least one rod-shaped element 3 located at the surface of the first panel 1, and at least one corresponding insertion recess 4 located at the surface of the second panel 2, wherein the rod-shaped element 3 is configured to be inserted into the insertion recess 4, a lateral surface of the rod-shaped element 3 extending from the surface of the first panel 1 at a first angle α, and a lateral surface of the insertion recess 4 extending from the surface 22 of the second panel 2 into the second panel 2 at a second angle β, wherein the difference between the first angle α and the second angle β is in the range of about 0.5° to about 6°, in the range of about 1° to about 4°, or about 3°.

[0101] 2. The mechanical connection arrangement structure according to Embodiment 1, wherein the rod-shaped element 3 and the insertion recess 4 are configured such that the difference between the first angle α and the second angle β is smaller in the locked position than in the unlocked position.

[0102] 3. The mechanical connection arrangement structure according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the rod-shaped element 3 is made of a material harder than at least the core 5 of the second panel 2.

[0103] 4. The mechanical connection arrangement structure according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the second panel 2 has an outer layer 6 adjacent to the surface, the hardness of the outer layer 6 being greater than that of the material in the core 5 of the panel.

[0104] 5. The mechanical connection arrangement structure according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the rod-shaped element 3 is made of one or a combination of wood-based materials, polymers, and metals.

[0105] 6. The mechanical connection arrangement structure according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein at least the core 5 of the second panel 2 is wood-based or plastic, the plastic having or not having filler.

[0106] 7. The mechanical connection arrangement structure according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the rod-shaped element 3 is cylindrical, and the insertion recess 4 has a circular cross-section, the diameter of the rod-shaped element 3 is about 90% to 98% of the diameter of the insertion recess 4, or more preferably 92% to 97% of the diameter of the insertion recess 4, and most preferably 94% to 96% of the diameter of the insertion recess 4.

[0107] 8. The mechanical connection arrangement structure according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein both the first angle α and the second angle β are in the range of about 30° to about 60°, or in the range of about 40° to about 50°.

[0108] 9. The mechanical connection arrangement structure according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the thickness of the second panel 2 is greater than the diameter of the cylindrical rod-shaped element 3 and less than three times the diameter of the cylindrical rod-shaped element 3.

[0109] 10. The mechanical connection arrangement structure according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the first angle α is less than the second angle β.

[0110] 11. The mechanical connection arrangement structure according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the insertion recess 4 includes an upper side surface 14 and an opposite lower side surface 16, wherein the contact length between the rod-shaped element 3 and the insertion recess 4 on the upper side surface 14 is longer than the radius of the cylindrical rod-shaped element 3 and shorter than twice the diameter of the rod-shaped element 3.

[0111] 12. The mechanical connection arrangement structure according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the insertion recess 4 has a countersunk hole 8.

[0112] 13. The mechanical connection arrangement structure according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the first panel further includes a second rod-shaped element 9 extending at the same angle as the first rod-shaped element 3, the second rod-shaped element 9 being shorter than the first rod-shaped element 3.

[0113] 14. The mechanical connection arrangement structure according to any one of the foregoing embodiments further includes locking arrangement structures 10 and 11.

[0114] 15. The mechanical connection arrangement structure according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein, in the locked position, the difference between the first angle α' and the second angle β' is in the range of about 0° to about 3°, in the range of about 2° to about 4°, or about 3°.

[0115] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to also cover the plural forms, unless otherwise clearly indicated. It is also understood that the terms “comprising,” “including,” as used herein, indicate the presence of the described features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or clusters thereof. It is understood that when an element is indicated as being “connected” or “linked” to another element, it may be directly connected or linked to said other element, or there may be intermediate elements present.

[0116] Unless otherwise specified, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. It should also be understood that terms defined, for example, in commonly used dictionaries, shall be interpreted as having meanings consistent with their meanings in the relevant field context, and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense, unless expressly defined herein.

[0117] Although numerous embodiments of the invention have been described and illustrated herein, those skilled in the art will readily conceive of various other means and / or structures for performing the functions described herein and / or obtaining the results and / or one or more advantages described herein, and each such variation and / or modification is considered to be within the scope of the invention. More generally, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are intended to be illustrative, and actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and / or configurations will depend on one or more specific applications using the teachings of the invention.

[0118] When the term “about” is used in conjunction with numerical values ​​in this specification, it is intended that the relevant numerical value includes a tolerance of + / - 10% to the left or right of the value.

[0119] The indefinite articles “a” and “an” used in the specification and claims herein shall be understood to mean at least one, unless clearly indicated otherwise.

Claims

1. A mechanical connection arrangement for panels (1, 2), the mechanical connection arrangement comprising a first panel (1), a second panel (2), and a mechanical locking device for locking the first panel (1) to the second panel (2), wherein a surface (21) of the first panel (1) is parallel to a surface (22) of the second panel (2) and contacts the first and second panels (1, 2) at locked positions, the mechanical locking device comprising at least one first rod-shaped element (3) located at the surface of the first panel (1), and at least one corresponding first insertion recess (4) located at the surface of the second panel (2), wherein the first rod-shaped element (3) is configured to be inserted into the first insertion recess (4), a lateral surface of the first rod-shaped element (3) extending from the surface (21) of the first panel (1) at a first angle (α), and a lateral surface of the first insertion recess (4) extending from the surface (22) of the second panel (2) at a second angle (β), characterized in that, In the unlocked position of the first and second panels (1, 2), the difference between the first angle (α) and the second angle (β) is in the range of 0.5° to 6°, wherein the first rod-shaped element (3) and the first insertion recess (4) are configured such that the difference between the first angle (α) and the second angle (β) is smaller in the locked position than in the unlocked position, wherein the first panel (1) further includes a second rod-shaped element (9) extending at the same angle as the first rod-shaped element (3), the second rod-shaped element (9) being shorter than the first rod-shaped element (3).

2. The mechanical connection arrangement structure according to claim 1, wherein, In the unlocked positions of the first and second panels (1, 2), the difference between the first angle (α) and the second angle (β) is in the range of 2° to 4°.

3. The mechanical connection arrangement structure according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first rod-shaped element (3) is made of a material that is harder than the core (5) of at least the second panel (2).

4. The mechanical connection arrangement structure according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The second panel (2) has an outer layer (6) adjacent to the surface, the hardness of which is greater than that of the material in the core (5) of the panel.

5. The mechanical connection arrangement structure according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first rod-shaped element (3) is made of one or a combination of wood-based materials, polymers and metals.

6. The mechanical connection arrangement structure according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, At least the core (5) of the second panel (2) is wood-based or plastic, with or without filler.

7. The mechanical connection arrangement structure according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first rod-shaped element (3) is cylindrical, and the first insertion recess (4) has a circular cross-section. The diameter of the first rod-shaped element (3) is 90% to 98% of the diameter of the first insertion recess (4).

8. The mechanical connection arrangement structure according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, Both the first angle (α) and the second angle (β) are in the range of 30° to 60°.

9. The mechanical connection arrangement structure according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The thickness of the second panel (2) is greater than the diameter of the cylindrical first rod-shaped element (3) and less than three times the diameter of the cylindrical first rod-shaped element (3).

10. The mechanical connection arrangement structure according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first angle (α) is smaller than the second angle (β).

11. The mechanical connection arrangement structure according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first insertion recess (4) includes an upper side surface (14) and an opposite lower side surface (16), wherein the contact length between the first rod-shaped element (3) and the first insertion recess (4) on the upper side surface (14) is longer than the radius of the cylindrical first rod-shaped element (3) and shorter than twice the diameter of the first rod-shaped element (3).

12. The mechanical connection arrangement structure according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first insertion recess (4) has a countersunk hole (8).

13. The mechanical connection arrangement structure according to claim 12, wherein, The first insertion recess (4) includes an upper side surface (14) and an opposite lower side surface (16), wherein the lower side surface (16) includes the countersunk hole (8).

14. The mechanical connection arrangement structure according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, In the locked position, the first rod element (3) extends deeper into the first insertion recess (4) than the second rod element extends into the second insertion recess.

15. The mechanical connection arrangement structure according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, In the locked position, the difference between the first angle and the second angle is in the range of 0° to 3°.

16. The mechanical connection arrangement structure according to claim 1 or 2 further includes a locking arrangement structure (10, 11).

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