Panel, panel system and method for forming floor or wall covering

Abstract

The invention relates to a panel for forming a floor covering or a wall covering. The invention also relates to a panel system comprising at least one panel according to the invention. The invention also relates to a method for forming a covering, in particular a floor covering, by using a panel system according to the invention.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a panel for forming a floor covering, a wall covering or an alternative covering, in particular for outdoor applications. The invention also relates to a panel system comprising at least one panel according to the invention. The invention also relates to a method for forming a covering, in particular a floor covering, by using the panel system according to the invention. Background Art

[0002] It is well known that outdoor panels can be used to form outdoor floor coverings in the external environment of buildings, such as balconies, terraces, swimming pools, gardens and courtyards. These panels help to improve the appearance of the environment while also providing a strong and durable floor surface. Typically, these outdoor panels have identical undercuts on opposite side edges, which are used to cooperate with metal or plastic fastening clips to fasten the panels to the supporting structure. The use of these clips is laborious and time consuming and can usually only be installed by educated installers. In addition, because these panels are installed in an external environment, the panels are often exposed to water from rain or irrigation systems, as a result of which water may sit on the tile surface, forming puddles, which is not only visually unpleasant, but may also cause moss to grow on the surface of the panel. Water may also make the panel more slippery. Summary of the invention

[0003] A first object of the present invention is to provide a panel and / or a panel system which can be installed in a relatively user-friendly manner.

[0004] A second object of the present invention is to provide an improved panel and / or an improved panel system which can be installed in a relatively user-friendly manner and which can be configured to drain water in an efficient manner.

[0005] A third object of the present invention is to provide a lightweight panel and / or a lightweight panel system comprising at least one lightweight panel, which can be installed in a relatively user-friendly manner.

[0006] A fourth object of the present invention is to provide an alternative panel and / or an alternative panel system which, according to some embodiments thereof, aims to solve one or more problems arising in the prior art.

[0007] A fifth object of the invention is to overcome the above-mentioned drawbacks of the prior art in the context of a simple, rational and inexpensive solution.

[0008] In order to achieve one or more of these objects, the present invention provides a panel according to the preamble, comprising: a first edge comprising at least one coupling profile, preferably a plurality of first coupling profiles, and a second edge, which is preferably located opposite the first edge, the second edge comprising at least one second coupling profile, preferably a plurality of second coupling profiles, wherein each second coupling profile is configured for interlocking engagement with at least one first coupling profile of an adjacent panel, Wherein, the first edge and / or the second edge preferably comprises at least one segment without a connecting profile, wherein the segment, preferably a drainage segment, if applied, is configured to promote water flow between the first edge of the panel and the second edge of an opposing adjacent panel in a connected state of the panel.

[0009] Such interlocking preferably allows the panel to be locked relative to one another in horizontal and / or vertical directions, preferably in both directions.

[0010] The panel according to the invention, which can be used as an outdoor panel and / or an indoor panel, is preferably provided with one or more coupling profiles, which allow adjacent panels to interlock substantially and preferably without using separate clips and / or other mechanical or chemical fastening devices, and / or allow adjacent panels to interlock substantially by using fewer separate clips and / or other mechanical or chemical fastening devices. This results in a relatively user-friendly installation without the need for educated installers. In addition, since the coupling profile locks adjacent panels in the horizontal and / or vertical direction, the undesired disengagement of the coupling profile and the panel can be offset. As shown, the panel according to the invention preferably includes a plurality of first coupling profiles at the first edge and / or a plurality of second coupling profiles at the second edge. Applying a plurality of coupling profiles at the panel edge allows a distance to be generated between adjacent coupling profiles, which results in a (middle) section preferably being substantially free of any coupling profiles, thus saving material and thereby reducing weight due to the less material required to achieve the interlockable panel. This brings economic, environmental and practical benefits. One or more middle sections of the panel edge may also be free of any protruding elements protruding laterally from the panel edge. The intermediate section not only saves material and weight, but can also be used to facilitate drainage through the section, particularly when adjacent panels are connected. This allows water to drain through one or more spaces surrounded by a first edge of an interlocking adjacent panel and an opposing second edge. The width of the space may vary depending on the specific panel design and / or intended application. The width of the intermediate space (or seam) surrounded by the interlocking panels is preferably between 0 and 10 mm, more preferably between 10 μm and 6 mm.

[0011] In this case, these segments may also be referred to as drainage segments. Drainage is generally important for exterior applications of the panels, but may also be important for specific (or less specific) interior applications, for example in wet interior environments, such as indoor swimming pools or bathrooms, and / or in interior spaces where regular wet cleaning is preferred, such as industrial spaces, commercial spaces and / or residential spaces.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment, at least one (drainage) segment is surrounded by adjacent coupling profiles. As mentioned above, the segment preferably does not have any coupling profile. Preferably, at least a portion of at least one (drainage) segment is substantially defined by a vertical plane defined by the respective edge, preferably substantially completely defined by the vertical plane of the respective edge. The segment of the panel can be provided with at least one transverse protruding element for supporting an adjacent panel in the coupled state of the panel, wherein the protruding element preferably does not participate in the interlocking of the panels in the coupled state. Generally, it is also conceivable that at least one segment is located outside the side edge, wherein the segment is only unilaterally defined by one coupling profile.

[0013] Preferably, at least one of the first and second edges comprises at least three coupling profiles, wherein between each pair of adjacent first coupling profiles there is a section, in particular a drainage section. Preferably, the coupling profiles are spread along the edge, more preferably spread substantially evenly, to ensure a good coupling along almost the entire edge. Preferably, the number of first coupling profiles corresponds to the number of second coupling profiles.

[0014] Preferably, the first edge comprises at least one first drain segment and the second edge comprises at least one further second drain segment. In this way, water will be facilitated to drain along the first and second panel edges, preferably along all panel edges. Preferably, at least one first drain segment is at least partially aligned with at least one second drain segment, so that in the coupled state of the panels the first drain segment of the panel faces the second drain segment of the adjacent panel. This preferably results in an open (linear) through cavity connecting the upper and lower sides of the covering consisting of interlocking panels.

[0015] Preferably, at least one first connection profile is at least partially aligned with at least one second connection profile. This helps to achieve a reliable interconnection between the panels. It is conceivable that at least one first connection profile observed in the direction of the first edge has the same length or a deviated length (a larger or smaller length) compared to the length of the second connection profile observed in the direction of the second edge. Preferably, the length of at least one first drainage section exceeds the length of at least one second drainage section (seen in the direction of the first and second edges, respectively). Preferably, the length of at least one drainage section exceeds the length of at least one adjacent connection profile. This can further increase the drainage capacity of the (floor) covering composed of a plurality of said panels. Additionally or alternatively, it is preferred that the length of at least one connection profile exceeds the length of at least one adjacent connection profile. This can further increase the connection strength of the interlocking panels.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment, the at least one first coupling profile comprises: a lateral tongue extending in a direction substantially parallel to a plane defined by the panels, wherein an upper side of said lateral tongue comprises at least one first locking element, such as an upwardly protruding locking element; and Wherein, at least one second connection profile comprises: A groove configured to accommodate at least a portion of a lateral tongue of at least one first coupling profile of an adjacent panel, the groove being defined by an upper lip and a lower lip, wherein the lower lip extends beyond the upper lip, and wherein the underside of the upper lip comprises at least one second locking element, such as a downwardly facing recess, the second locking element being configured to face the first locking element of an adjacent panel in the coupled state of the panels and preferably cooperating with the first locking element to interlock the panels in a horizontal direction.

[0017] By at least partially inserting a lateral tongue of a panel into a groove of an adjacent panel, a locking effect in the vertical direction is achieved. Preferably, the first and second coupling profiles are configured such that two such panels can be coupled to each other by a rotational movement and / or a translational movement, preferably in a horizontal plane, wherein, in the coupled state: at least a portion of the lateral tongue of a first panel is inserted into a groove of an adjacent second panel, and wherein at least one second locking element of the first panel faces the first locking element of the adjacent panel and preferably cooperates with the first locking element of the adjacent panel to interlock the two panels in the horizontal and vertical direction.

[0018] The lower lip preferably comprises an inner section located directly below the upper lip and a connecting outer section extending beyond the outer vertical plane defined by the upper lip, wherein the maximum height of the inner section is equal to or exceeds the maximum height of the outer section. Therefore, the upper surface of the lower lip is preferably substantially planar. However, it is conceivable that the upper surface of the lower lip, preferably the outer section of the lower lip, comprises at least one upward drainage groove. Such a drainage groove (further) helps to drain water, such as water that penetrates between the connecting profiles. It is usually preferred to position the upward drainage groove on the upper surface of the outer section of the lower lip. This allows the inner section of the lower lip to remain solid without being weakened, which is generally conducive to establishing a relatively strong and reliable connection between the panels. The thickness of the outer section of the lower lip is preferably equal to or less than the thickness of the inner section of the lower lip. Preferably, the upward drainage groove divides the outer section of the lower lip into a proximal portion of the outer section of the lower lip and a distal portion of the outer section of the lower lip. The proximal portion of the outer section is connected to the inner section of the lower lip. The distal portion of the outer section usually forms the end portion (free end) of the outer section of the lower lip. Preferably, the thickness of the distal part of the outer segment of the lower lip is equal to or less than the thickness of the proximal part of the outer segment of the lower lip. This allows the outer segment to act as a sliding surface more or less or completely horizontally without obstacles such as ridges protruding upwards. This can facilitate the connection between panels.

[0019] Preferably, the lower lip of the panel is configured to engage with a stop surface of the second profile of an adjacent panel in the coupled state of the panels, wherein the stop surface is located at a lower level than the lateral tongue. The stop surface typically preferably ensures a minimum distance between the tops of the interlocking panels, which typically results in an open seam at the tops between the interlocking panels, which facilitates the drainage capacity of a covering at least partially formed by the interlocking panels. Preferably, the first coupling profile comprises a first top located above the lateral tongue, wherein the first top preferably extends in a substantially vertical direction, and wherein the outer end of the upper lip defines a second top, wherein the second top preferably extends in a substantially vertical direction, and wherein, in the coupled state of the panels, the second top is configured to face the first top of the adjacent panel. As described above, such an open (top) seam improves the drainage capacity of a covering at least partially formed by the interlocking panels.

[0020] The stop surface is preferably a vertical stop surface. The distal surface of the lower lip is configured to cooperate with the stop surface of another panel, preferably oriented substantially vertically, which generally easily leads to a stable abutment of two substantially vertical surfaces. Preferably, the underside of the panel is provided with a longitudinal cutout portion, which is connected and parallel to the first edge, for accommodating each lower lip in the coupled state of the adjacent panels. The cutout portion is preferably defined in part by the stop surface and in part by a connecting horizontal portion of the underside of the panel.

[0021] Preferably, the length of the lower lip is at least 1.5 times, about 2 times, the length of the upper lip, measured from the innermost point of the groove of the second connecting profile. This results in a relatively stable support for the adjacent panels in the connected state. Preferably, the maximum thickness of the upper lip is at least 2 times the maximum thickness of the lower lip. This results in a relatively strong upper lip, thereby forming a relatively strong upper panel. In addition, the thickness difference between the upper lip and the lower lip results in a relatively low position of the groove of the second connecting profile, wherein the center line of the groove is preferably located below the center line of the panel. If one or more internal channels are applied, and if these internal channels are located at the center of the panel, as shown in the thickness direction (vertical direction), the center line of the groove of the second connecting profile is preferably located below the center line of the one or more internal channels.

[0022] The first locking element is preferably formed by at least one projection and the second locking element is preferably formed by at least one recess to at least partially accommodate the at least one projection. The result of this embodiment is a more solid and therefore stronger lateral tenon. Preferably, the projection and / or the recess preferably have a rounded triangular shape, usually with two right-angled sides connected by a rounded vertex. The curvature of the vertices of the projection and the recess may be the same, wherein preferably, the radius defining the vertices of the projection exceeds the radius defining the vertices of the recess. This makes the projection less sharp and therefore less prone to breakage. An opposite embodiment can also be imagined, in which the first locking element can be formed by at least one recess and the second locking element can be formed by at least one projection to at least partially accommodate the at least one projection. Other combinations of alternative locking elements and / or projections and recesses can also be envisaged as the first locking element and the second locking element.

[0023] Preferably, at least one lower lip is provided with at least one curved side edge, preferably, two curved side edges are provided, as seen from a top view of the lower lip. Such curved side edges make the lower lip generally less susceptible to damage and / or breakage. The lower lip is generally used to support the lateral tenon in the coupled state of adjacent panels. Preferably, in the coupled state of adjacent panels, the lateral tenon is supported by said inner section and said outer section of the lower lip. Preferably, a distal portion of the lower side of the lateral tenon below the first locking element, such as said first locking element, which is preferably formed by at least one protrusion, is at least partially inclined upwards towards the outer end of the lateral tenon. This inclination creates space that facilitates coupling of the coupling profile, in particular facilitates the oblique entry of the lateral tenon into the groove. The outer end of the lateral tenon is preferably substantially vertical, which generally contributes to the robustness of the lateral tenon.

[0024] Preferably, at least one lateral tongue has at least one curved and / or beveled (inclined) side edge, preferably preferably two curved and / or beveled (inclined) side edges seen in a top view of the lateral tongue. These one or more side edges can be used as guide surfaces for aligning the panel relative to the supporting structure.

[0025] At least two first connection profiles, in particular from a cross-sectional view, can be identical. Additionally or alternatively, at least two first connection profiles, in particular from a cross-sectional view, are different from each other. At least two first connection profiles, in particular from a top view, are mirror-symmetrical first connection profiles. In this embodiment, the mirror-symmetrical first connection profiles are preferably separated by an intermediate section, in particular a drainage section, which makes two adjacent first connection profiles look like interrupted larger first connection profiles divided into two smaller first connection profiles. The (imaginary) larger first connection profile can have the same length (from the direction of the first edge) as another (undivided) first connection profile located at the first edge. The same applies to the second connection profile, which can be the same and / or deviated connection profile. At least two second connection profiles, in particular from a top view, can be mirror-symmetrical second connection profiles.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, at least one pair of adjacent first coupling profiles and at least one pair of opposite adjacent second coupling profiles enclose a receiving space for receiving a separate supporting structure supporting the panel, wherein the receiving spaces are aligned with each other. The receiving space is typically a groove of limited length, which, in the coupled state of adjacent panels, preferably overlaps and / or coincides with the receiving space of a pair of connected coupling profiles. By inserting a portion of the supporting structure into the receiving space, a more stable (floor) covering and paneling system (comprising interlocking panels supported by one or more supporting structures) can be obtained. Preferably, the upper side of each receiving space is at least partially defined by a curved and / or inclined surface. This embodiment generally facilitates the insertion of (an (upper) part) of the supporting structure into the receiving space.

[0027] Preferably, the underside of the panel comprises at least one bottom groove, preferably a transverse bottom groove, which preferably connects the first edge and the second edge (or one or more other edges), wherein the bottom groove, preferably a transverse bottom groove, is configured to accommodate a separate support structure for supporting the panel, and wherein the bottom groove is preferably connected and aligned with a pair of opposite, aligned receiving spaces (preferably as described above) to form a continuous receiving groove for accommodating a part of the separate support structure. Such a continuous bottom groove, preferably a transverse bottom groove, makes it relatively easy to place on top of the (first) support structure so that a part of the (first) support structure is accommodated in the continuous groove. Bottom groove means an elongated channel and / or an elongated (hollow) space formed on the underside of the panel. Preferably, at least one receiving space and / or at least one bottom groove, preferably a transverse bottom groove, comprises at least one third coupling profile, which is configured to interlock with at least one fourth coupling profile of the separate support structure in the horizontal direction and / or vertical direction. Preferably, the connection between the third profile and the fourth profile is achieved by placing the panel on top of the (first) supporting structure and then translating (moving) the panel in the horizontal direction so that the third connecting profile and the fourth connecting profile are interlocked. Preferably, a clamping connection between the third connecting profile and the fourth connecting profile is achieved in the connected state of adjacent panels. The bottom groove, preferably a transverse bottom groove, typically extends in a transverse direction perpendicular to the length direction of the panel and preferably perpendicular to the first edge and the second edge. This embodiment generally provides a preferred stability of the panel covering supported by one or more (first) supporting structures, wherein the panels and the supporting structures are oriented in a cross direction. However, it is also conceivable that the bottom groove, preferably a transverse bottom groove, extends in the length direction of the panel.

[0028] Preferably, the first connecting profile, the second connecting profile and / or the third connecting profile, more preferably all connecting profiles, constitute an integral part of the panel, in particular the core of the panel. More preferably, the connecting profile is at least partially formed by extrusion, preferably simultaneously with at least one layer (e.g. core layer) of the panel. Therefore, the layer and the connecting profile can be made of a piece of material. It is conceivable that after extrusion, the connecting profile is milled and / or otherwise formed into its final shape (and also in the length direction parallel to the first and second side edges). The latter post-processing step is usually to create a pipe section, in particular a drainage pipe section. However, the latter processing step can also be incorporated into the extrusion process step, preferably into the co-extrusion process step. By combining the processing steps together, for example in a single co-extrusion process, this can achieve advantages in terms of cost and processing speed.

[0029] Preferably, a second pair of opposing edges of the panel (typically formed by the third edge and the fourth edge) are completely free of a joining profile.Preferably, these opposing edges are defined by substantially vertical end faces.

[0030] The panels are preferably rectangular and / or oval panels, more preferably rectangular oval panels. For the panels according to the invention, other polygonal shapes are also conceivable, such as triangles, hexagons or octagons or parallelograms.

[0031] Although the covering consisting of a plurality of interconnected panels (at least partially) according to the invention is preferably water-permeable to allow drainage, the panels themselves are preferably waterproof panels. Waterproof means that the panels are dimensionally stable (e.g. do not warp, swell or shrink) when exposed to water. This is conceivable and even advantageous if the panels are essentially rigid panels. The panels can be used as indoor panels or outdoor (deck) panels. The panels can also be referred to as tiles, wooden boards, or decks, or covering elements, in particular floor covering elements or wall covering elements. Preferably, the length of the panels is between 1 meter and 4 meters, preferably between 1.5 meters and 4 meters, more preferably between 3 meters and 4 meters, in particular up to 6 meters. In the case where the panels are used as outdoor panels, the latter preferred range is particularly preferred. The thickness of the panels is preferably between 3 and 80 millimeters, more preferably between 8 and 60 millimeters, and most preferably between 10 and 55 millimeters. In the case where the panels are used as outdoor panels, the latter range is particularly preferred. The width of the panel is preferably between 10 and 300 mm, more preferably between 40 and 250 mm, most preferably between 80 and 200 mm. The latter range is particularly preferred in case the panel is used as outdoor panel.

[0032] Preferably, the panel is at least partially an extruded panel, preferably a fully extruded panel, more preferably a fully co-extruded panel. In a co-extruded panel, two or more layers are formed simultaneously on top of each other (and / or side by side with each other) by using different adjacent extruders. This allows different panel layers to consist of different components, which can improve the overall properties of the panel, such as acoustic properties (sound damping properties) and / or anti-slip properties, and / or improve user comfort. The connecting profiles can be formed by a single layer, but it is also conceivable that at least one connecting profile is partially formed by one layer and at least one other part of the connecting profile is formed by at least one other layer.

[0033] The panel according to the invention may be a monolithic panel. This means that the panel is made entirely of one piece of material. However, the panel may also be a multilayer panel, preferably a coextruded multilayer panel. Such a multilayer panel preferably comprises a core layer and a top structure and / or a backing layer attached directly or indirectly to the core layer. The top structure itself may also consist of a plurality of layers, which may comprise, for example, a decorative layer, preferably a digitally printed decorative layer, and at least one transparent and / or translucent covering layer. Preferably, the top structure comprises at least one primer layer applied to the core layer, at least one (preferably printed) decorative layer applied to the (upper) primer layer, at least one transparent and / or translucent wear layer on top of the decorative layer, and optionally a top coating applied on top of the (upper) wear layer. However, it is also conceivable that two or more layers of the top structure are formed by a single layer.

[0034] According to a preferred embodiment, it is conceivable that the panel comprises a top structure, wherein the top structure or a part thereof at least partially covers the upper surface of the panel and at least partially covers at least one side edge, preferably at least one of the first and / or second edges. Optionally, the top structure substantially completely covers at least one pair of opposite side edges, and may cover all side edges. It is conceivable that one or more connecting profiles are at least partially covered by the top structure (or a part thereof). In addition, it is conceivable that, according to this embodiment, the top structure or a part thereof at least partially, preferably completely covers the bottom side of the panel. For example, it is conceivable that the top structure comprises a primer layer, which is present on the upper surface of the panel, the bottom side of the panel and one or more side edges of the optional panel. This can make the panel have better moisture resistance and / or can protect the panel from insects, fungi and / or bacteria.

[0035] It may be preferred that the top structure at least partially consists of a polymer material. However, as mentioned above, preferably the top structure comprises a plurality of (stacked) layers, including at least one optional primer layer, at least one decorative layer and at least one protective layer at least partially covering the decorative layer. According to this embodiment, the core of the panel may, for example, in particular consist of wood and / or a wood / plastic composite structure.

[0036] Preferably, the panel is a hollow panel, which preferably surrounds at least one inner channel connecting the third edge and the fourth edge, the inner channel is preferably linear, wherein the inner channel is preferably located at a distance from the lower side of the panel and / or the upper side of the panel, and wherein each of the third edge and the fourth edge is preferably connected to the first edge and the second edge. Preferably, each channel is located at a distance from the first edge and the second edge. A plurality of such channels can be applied, preferably arranged in a side-by-side direction (lateral direction). The cross-sectional shape of the channel can be, for example, circular or polygonal, preferably a polygon with rounded corners. These one or more channels save material and weight. These one or more channels can be easily realized by extrusion of, for example, the core layer of the panel, optionally, by co-extrusion of, for example, a multi-layer core layer and / or a core layer and at least one other panel layer. In the latter case, at least one channel can be partially defined by the first extruded panel layer, and the remainder can be defined by at least one other extruded panel layer. Therefore, at least one channel can be completely located in the core of the panel. It is conceivable that one or more channels are connected to the lower side of the panel. This usually results in a panel with a rake-shaped or forked cross-section, wherein, if a plurality of channels are applied, the channels of each pair of adjacent channels are separated from each other by struts extending downwards. The lower part of the struts may be widened relative to the central part and / or the upper part of the struts. This may increase the stability of the panel. The coupling profile is preferably located at a distance from the at least one internal channel. This may prevent a weakening of the coupling profile. Such a coupling profile preferably does not have any internal channels and is preferably solid and / or consists of a (solid) part of the panel core.

[0037] The upper side of the panel may have an embossed structure. This embossed structure may be completely functional, for example, it can improve the anti-slip properties of the panel, but it may also be aesthetically pleasing to improve the look and feel of the panel. A embossed structure that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing is also conceivable. The embossed structure is, for example, an extruded embossed structure and / or a pressed embossed structure and / or a printed embossed structure, preferably a digitally printed embossed structure. In one embodiment, the embossed structure includes a plurality of parallel oriented elongated recesses connecting the third edge and the fourth edge. These elongated recesses may also be referred to as top grooves. At least two of these recesses preferably extend in parallel. Additionally or alternatively, at least two of these recesses may intersect and enclose an angle with each other, for example an angle of 90 degrees, 60 degrees, 45 degrees or 30 degrees. Other angles are also possible. At least two recesses preferably extend along the length direction of the panel, depending on the panel design, which are usually parallel to the first and second edges. From an aesthetic point of view, this orientation is usually preferred. However, it is also conceivable that it is sometimes preferred that the elongated recess extends in a transverse direction, thereby connecting the first edge and the second edge. Such a direction would typically shorten the length of the elongated recess compared to the longitudinal direction. However, such a transverse direction may be more effective for drainage, since the drainage path will be shortened in this way starting from the central part of the recess. Regardless of the direction of the recess, it is preferred that the depth of at least one recess increases towards at least one edge to which the recess is connected, which edge may be the first edge, the second edge, the third edge or the fourth edge (or another edge) depending on the design of the panel and the recess. Preferably, the depth of at least one recess increases from the central part of the upper surface to the third edge and the fourth edge of the panel. Such an inclination may force water to move towards the edge where it can be drained. This will typically reduce the sliding properties of the panel, especially in wet conditions, and in addition, will reduce the risk of moss forming on the panel.

[0038] The maximum depth of the depression is preferably greater than 0.1 mm, in particular 0.5 mm.The depression may be formed in various ways, for example by milling (digging), pressing, printing and / or during extrusion of the panel (or a part of a panel).

[0039] Preferably, the shape of the decorative layer and / or relief structure should represent a pattern, such as a wood pattern (that is to say the grain and knots of the wood pattern), a stone pattern or a concrete pattern, a resin or any other design or pattern, such as an (optionally customized) image pattern. Preferably, the pattern is at least partially formed by printed graphic elements. Printing is preferably carried out using a non-contact printing method, such as digital inkjet printing or screen printing, because this allows printing with high resolution even on the irregular structure of the frosted edge. However, there is no reason not to use other printing techniques, such as flexographic printing, lithography or gravure printing. Obviously, the pattern can include a color or black and white design, but it can also be composed of solid colors, in which case other decorative techniques are also possible, such as spraying, lamination or film decoration. It is also conceivable that the decorative layer and / or relief structure not only covers the top side of the panel, but also covers the other sides of the panel, such as one or more side walls of the panel, such as two or four side walls and / or the lower side of the panel. The panels may also be decorated using an integral technique, that is to say that at least one pigment is mixed with the substrate of the panel, which is generally a polymer material, such as a thermoplastic material, such as PVC, PP, PET, TPU, etc., according to a predefined design or in a random manner, which colors a part or preferably the entire thickness of the panel and not just its upper surface. Furthermore, there is no reason not to apply the pattern to a suitable pre-printed substrate to be fixed to a support, such as a sheet of paper or plastic (such as PVC), which is for example glued or welded to the core layer of the panel, especially in the case where the core layer is wood-based and / or polymer-based.

[0040] According to one embodiment of the invention, the underside of the panel may include a second relief structure. In particular, the second relief structure may have one or more features that are related to the relief structure description of the upper surface. Preferably, each surface may represent a specific pattern so that during installation, the user can select which surface is visible. For example, the second relief structure may be substantially a mirror image of the relief structure of the upper surface, so that the weight and amount of material is substantially balanced between the surfaces.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment, the panel or at least one panel layer is at least partially composed of at least one polymer material, preferably a thermoplastic material, wherein the polymer material is preferably enriched with at least one filler. Preferably, the thermoplastic material is selected from: PVC, PET, PP, PS, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), PE, in particular MDPE and / or HDPE; and combinations thereof. The PS can be in the form of expanded PS (EPS) to further reduce the density of the panel, thereby saving costs and facilitating the handling of the panel. Similarly, in the case of using another thermoplastic material, this material can be applied to the core in a foamed state to reduce density and costs. However, it is also conceivable, and generally preferred, that the thermoplastic material used as the main polymer is a solid polymer (i.e. an unfoamed polymer). Preferably, at least a portion of the polymer used can be formed from recycled thermoplastics, such as recycled PVC or recycled PU. The advantage of thermoplastic materials is that such materials are generally suitable for extrusion, which allows the panel or at least a portion thereof to be made by extrusion and / or coextrusion. It is conceivable that a mixture of virgin and recycled thermoplastic materials is used to form at least a portion of the core. Instead of thermoplastic materials, it is also possible to use thermosetting polymers, such as thermosetting polyurethanes.

[0042] As mentioned above, the at least one polymer is preferably enriched with at least one filler. These one or more fillers can be used to provide additional desired properties for the polymer and / or the panel. Preferably, at least one filler is preferably selected from talc, chalk, wood, bamboo, cotton, coffee, limestone, calcium carbonate, titanium dioxide, calcined clay, ceramics, glass, carbon particles, metals, silicon particles, (another) mineral filler, such as marble powder, (another) natural filler, (another) (auxiliary) polymer, such as elastomer and / or latex. It is also conceivable that rubber and / or elastomer components (particles) are dispersed in the polymer (matrix) to improve flexibility and / or impact resistance at least to a certain extent. Although the panel is preferably rigid, the panel can also be semi-flexible or flexible. The filler can be formed by fibers, such as glass fibers or synthetic fibers or leather fibers, and / or can be formed by dust-like particles. Here, the term "dust" is understood as small dust-like particles (powder), such as bamboo powder, wood powder, cork powder or non-wood powder, such as mineral powder, stone powder, in particular cement, and combinations thereof. The average particle size of the dust is preferably between 14 and 20 microns, more preferably between 16 and 18 microns. The filler can also be in the form of at least one layer, such as a woven and / or nonwoven layer, preferably for reinforcing the panel. Therefore, this layer can also be referred to as a reinforcing layer. As an alternative or in addition, the filler can be in the form of at least one filament, preferably a reinforcing filament. These filaments are usually continuous strands and / or continuous filament yarns. These filler layers and / or filler filaments are usually embedded in polymers, preferably extending between at least two opposite panel edges. This embedding can be achieved, for example, by extruding, for example, by placing at least one reinforcing filament (or filler layer) continuously in the molten thermoplastic polymer feed when the thermoplastic polymer feed is extruded through a die to form a panel (or a part thereof).

[0043] The main function of such fillers is to provide sufficient hardness for the panel and / or to reduce the cost price of the panel, and / or to adjust other properties of the panel. In addition, such fillers will generally also increase the impact strength of the core and the panel. Preferably, in particular when using inert fillers (such as calcium carbonate), the filler content in the composite material of the panel, in particular the filler content of the core of the panel (which can be the only panel layer) is between 30 and 75% by weight of the composite material of the core, more preferably between 50 and 60%. Preferably, the polymer content in the composite material of the core is between 25 and 70%, more preferably between 40 and 50% by weight of the composite material of the core. As mentioned above, the polymer can be foamed or non-foamed. In addition or alternatively, it is preferred to use at least one filler selected from salts, stearates, calcium stearate and zinc stearate. Stearates have the function of stabilizers, which can produce more favorable processing temperatures and counteract the decomposition of composite material components during and after processing, thereby providing long-term stability. As an alternative or supplement to stearates, calcium zinc, for example, can also be used as stabilizers. The weight content of the stabilizer in the composite material is preferably between 1% and 5%, more preferably between 1.5% and 4%. Additionally or alternatively, the panel preferably comprises at least one impact modifier, the impact modifier comprising at least one alkyl methacrylate, wherein the alkyl methacrylate is preferably selected from the group consisting of methyl methacrylate, ethyl methacrylate, propyl methacrylate, isopropyl methacrylate, tert-butyl methacrylate and isobutyl methacrylate. Impact modifiers generally improve product properties, in particular impact resistance. In addition, impact modifiers generally stiffen the core layer and can therefore also be considered as toughening agents, which further reduces the risk of fracture. Generally, modifiers also facilitate the production process, for example, as described above, to control the formation of foam with a relatively consistent (constant) foam structure. The weight content of the impact modifier in the composite material is preferably between 1% and 9%, more preferably between 3% and 6%. The at least one plastic material used in the panel preferably does not contain any (toxic) plasticizers to increase the required stiffness of the core layer, which is also advantageous from an environmental point of view. At least one filler applied in the panel may be a virgin filler, a recycled filler and / or a combination thereof. For example, if cotton is used as filler, recycled cotton (e.g. from recycled jeans or denim) and / or a combination of recycled or virgin cotton may be used. The panel, the core of a panel and / or another panel layer may comprise a wood-based material, such as MDF, HDF, sawdust, bamboo, prefabricated wood, more particularly so-called engineered wood. Such a wood material may be part of the composite material of the core. Alternatively, the panel and / or the core of a panel may consist at least partially of another substrate, such as a mineral material, such as magnesium oxide, magnesium hydroxide, gypsum, (lightweight) concrete and / or clay; and / or wood or a wood-based material, such as HDF or MDF, or any other non-thermoplastic material that can be used as a substrate.

[0044] The density of the core is usually about 0.1 to 1.5 g / cm 3 The range of is preferably about 0.2 to 1.4 g / cm 3 More preferably, it is about 0.3 to 1.3 g / cm 3 Even more preferably, between about 0.4 and 1.2 g / cm 3 It is conceivable that each panel comprises a plurality of core (sub) layers. Different core (sub) layers may have the same composition or different compositions and / or different densities.

[0045] The invention also relates to a covering consisting at least partially of a plurality of interconnected and / or interconnectable panels according to the invention.

[0046] The invention also relates to a panel system for forming a floor covering or a wall covering, in particular for outdoor use, comprising: at least one panel having or comprising a bottom side comprising at least one bottom groove configured to at least partially accommodate at least one first support structure for supporting the panel, and At least one first support structure is configured to be partially received within at least one bottom recess of the panel.

[0047] The panel system according to the invention, which can be used as an outdoor panel system and / or an indoor panel system, comprises one or more panels, each panel having at least one bottom recess on its bottom side for accommodating at least a part of at least one first support structure. This structure results in limited movement of the panels relative to each other and relative to the first support structure, which helps to achieve a stable covering, such as a floor covering or a wall covering. Further advantages and embodiments of the panel system and its components are as follows.

[0048] Preferably, at least one bottom groove of at least one panel is a transverse bottom groove, which preferably extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the panel. Preferably, at least one bottom groove of at least one panel is connected to (to) an opposite panel edge. It is conceivable that one or more bottom grooves on the bottom side of the panel are at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the panel. It is conceivable that, in the case where there are more bottom grooves on the bottom side of the panel, at least two of these bottom grooves extend in parallel and / or at least two of these bottom grooves surround an angle with each other, for example an angle between 15 and 165 degrees. It is conceivable that at least two bottom grooves of the panel cross each other. The latter provides greater flexibility in mounting the panel to the first supporting structure, in particular provides greater freedom in how to orient the panel relative to the supporting structure. The latter option can increase the installation mode options.

[0049] During installation of the panel system, each panel is preferably fixed relative to the first supporting structure. This fixing is preferably such that it can be easily accomplished, preferably without damaging the panel and / or the first supporting structure, to allow for smooth disassembly. Fixing is preferably achieved in the horizontal and / or vertical direction, preferably both in the horizontal and vertical directions. This fixing is preferably achieved without the use of separate clips and / or other mechanical or chemical fastening devices, which can be achieved, for example, by providing one or more coupling profiles for the panel and / or the first supporting structure, which allow each panel and each first supporting structure to interlock (couple). However, it is conceivable that separate clips and / or other mechanical and / or chemical fastening devices may be used alternatively or additionally to achieve and / or improve this mutual fixation.

[0050] The bottom groove of each panel may be elongated and / or may be formed by a cavity, a groove, a recess, a stamp or an alternative receiving space. The bottom groove may be linear and / or curvilinear and / or may have an alternative shape, such as a cross or a square. Thus, the bottom groove may have different shapes, but is preferably linear, elongated (thus rectangular and oval), and preferably connects opposite panel edges.

[0051] The panel system preferably comprises at least one panel according to the invention and at least one first supporting structure which is configured to be partially accommodated in at least one pair of aligned receiving spaces and / or bottom grooves, preferably transverse bottom grooves, applied on the underside of the panel.

[0052] By inserting a portion of the first supporting structure (in particular the top portion) into at least one cavity or groove or alternative accommodation space, the relative displacement of the panel and the first supporting structure during normal use can be offset and / or minimized and / or even eliminated, which is beneficial to the stability of the panel and the covering at least partially formed by multiple interlocking panels during normal use.

[0053] Preferably, at least one panel, at least one third coupling profile and at least one first support structure comprise at least one fourth coupling profile configured to interlock with the third coupling profile. Such interlocking preferably enables the panel to be locked relative to the first support structure in horizontal and / or vertical directions (preferably in both directions).

[0054] Preferably, at least one receiving space and / or at least one bottom groove, preferably a transverse bottom groove, of at least one panel comprises at least one third coupling profile, and wherein the first supporting structure comprises at least one fourth coupling profile, which is configured to interlock with the third coupling profile in horizontal and / or vertical direction. Such interlock will further contribute to forming a stable floor covering (or wall covering). In a preferred embodiment, the third coupling profile comprises at least one third tongue, preferably a third lateral tongue, and wherein the fourth coupling profile comprises at least one fourth groove configured to receive at least a portion of the at least one third lateral tongue, wherein the fourth groove is preferably defined by a fourth upper lip and a fourth lower lip. The third coupling profile preferably comprises two opposing third lateral tongues, which are at least partially located in the same plane and at a distance from each other, wherein the space enclosed by the two third lateral tongues is configured to accommodate a portion of the at least one fourth coupling profile. The lateral tongues and the enclosed space together preferably form a symmetrical arrangement, seen in a cross-sectional view. The application of a plurality of opposite, widely spaced third lateral tongues allows the panel to be mounted on the supporting structure in two directions, which makes the pre-alignment between the panel and the supporting structure less important, thereby facilitating the installation of the system. Preferably, the fourth groove is configured to clamp at least one third lateral tongue. In this way, a horizontal locking effect between the third coupling profile and the second coupling profile can be achieved. Additionally or alternatively, the third coupling profile can include at least one third locking element, such as a protrusion and / or a recess, and the fourth coupling profile can include at least one fourth locking element, such as a recess and / or a protrusion, which is configured to cooperate with the third locking element of the adjacent panel. In this way, an additional locking effect can be achieved, preferably in the horizontal direction (and / or vertical direction). This offsets the undesirable disengagement of the panel relative to the (first) supporting structure. Preferably, the fourth lower lip is configured to support at least the third lateral tongue. The fourth lower lip can be formed, for example, by a horizontal plane and / or a strip or an optional more spatial structure with a supporting upper surface (preferably a horizontal supporting upper surface). The lower side of the third lateral tongue preferably coincides with the lower side of the panel and / or is formed by (or forms the lower side of the panel). The fourth upper lip is provided with at least one upwardly protruding ridge, which, in the coupled state of adjacent panels, is located between opposite, more distal surfaces, preferably beveled and / or curved surfaces, of at least one third coupling profile. This typically results in an additional locking of the panel relative to the (first) supporting structure. Preferably, the upwardly protruding ridge is configured to support the panel. This may reduce local loads and local pressures, which will be beneficial to the load-bearing capacity of the (first) supporting structure. Preferably, each third coupling profile and each fourth coupling profile is configured to be coupled by a translational movement, preferably only by a translational movement, in particular in a (horizontal) direction parallel to the plane defined by the panels.

[0055] Preferably, the fourth coupling profile is formed integrally with the first supporting structure. This can be achieved, for example, by extrusion or injection molding.

[0056] The panel system according to the present invention preferably comprises a plurality of interlockable or interlocked panels, wherein the first coupling profile of at least one panel is configured to interlock with the second coupling profile of at least one other panel, so that the paired aligned accommodation spaces of adjacent panels are aligned with each other and / or the bottom grooves (preferably lateral bottom grooves) on adjacent panels are aligned with each other to accommodate a portion of at least one first supporting structure together. Therefore, the first supporting structure is preferably configured to support a plurality of interconnected panels simultaneously. To this end, advantageously, the length of the first supporting structure is at least n times the width of the panel, wherein n is at least 2, preferably at least 5, and more preferably at least 10. Preferably, the assembly of the interlocking panel comprises a third coupling profile, which interlocks with at least one fourth coupling profile of the first supporting structure. Typically, the panel system comprises a plurality of first supporting structures. Preferably, a plurality of supporting structures (which may be first supporting structures) are oriented in a manner that is spaced apart from each other by a distance d and in parallel, wherein each first supporting structure interlocks with a plurality of interlocked panels. The distance d is preferably at least 40 cm and / or preferably less than 150 cm. This allows the panel to be stably supported in normal use, for example as a walking surface. For more frequent use, such as transporting vehicles on the covering, the distance d can be reduced to less than 40 cm.

[0057] An inverted embodiment is also conceivable, wherein the third coupling profile comprises a groove which is configured to accommodate at least a portion of at least one tongue of the fourth coupling profile. The same applies to the further embodiments of the third and fourth coupling profiles described above.

[0058] The first support structure is also referred to as an active support structure. In addition, the paneling system preferably includes at least one second support surface, which is free of any coupling profile and is configured to support only at least one panel, preferably a plurality of interlocked panels. The interlocking panels are preferably supported by the assembly of the first and second support structures. The second support structure does not usually lock the panel in place, but only has a supporting function. The advantage of these second support structures is that the panel will not be weakened by the accommodation space and / or groove applied at the second support position on the underside of the panel, which will help to keep the panel as strong and durable as possible. Preferably, at least one (first and / or second) support structure includes a leveling foot, such as a leveling screw, to level the support structure to the subfloor. In this way, the support structure can be installed on the subfloor in a completely horizontal manner, or if necessary, it can be installed in a slightly inclined manner, such as to facilitate drainage. Preferably, the paneling system includes at least one base plate, which is configured to support multiple leveling feet at the same time. In this way, a favorable load distribution of the leveling feet can be achieved, which will be beneficial to the stability of the support structure and thus to the stability of the paneling system.

[0059] The invention also relates to a first supporting structure for the panelling system according to the invention.

[0060] Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for constructing a covering, in particular a floor covering, by using the panel system according to the invention, comprising the following steps: A) providing a plurality of panels, wherein each panel has a bottom side comprising at least one bottom groove configured to at least partially accommodate at least one first support structure for supporting said panel, and / or wherein each panel preferably comprises at least one third coupling profile on its bottom side, B) providing a plurality of first support structures, wherein each first support structure preferably comprises at least one fourth coupling profile, C) optionally providing a plurality of second support structures, D) interlocking at least two panels, optionally by coupling a first coupling profile of a panel to a second coupling profile of an adjacent panel, E) positioning a first support structure on a subfloor, such as a stable sand bed, and optionally positioning a second support structure (if applied) on said subfloor, and F) positioning the panels on at least one first support structure such that the bottom grooves of at least two adjacent panels are aligned and such that each support structure is partially accommodated within the aligned bottom grooves of said adjacent panels, and interlocking the optional interlocking panels with the first support structure, preferably by connecting a third connecting profile of the panel to a fourth connecting profile of the first support structure, in particular by sliding an assembly of the optional interlocking panels in a direction parallel to a plane defined by the panels.

[0061] Typically, step D) is performed before step E), however it is also conceivable to reverse the order (step E) before step D). During step E), the first support structures and the distances therebetween are preferably aligned with the panels to be coupled to said first support structures to allow the third coupling profile of the panels to cooperate with the fourth coupling profile in the first support structure to lock (fix) the panels relative to the first support structure. The method preferably further comprises a step G), which comprises the step of leveling each support structure relative to the subfloor, wherein step G) is preferably performed before step F).

[0062] Embodiments of the present invention are presented in the non-limiting terms set forth below:

[0063] 1. A panel for forming a floor covering or a wall covering, comprising: a first edge comprising a plurality of first coupling profiles, and a second edge, which is preferably opposite the first edge, comprising a plurality of second coupling profiles, wherein each second coupling profile is configured to interlock with at least one first coupling profile of an adjacent panel in horizontal and vertical directions, Wherein, the first edge and / or the second edge comprises at least one drainage segment.

[0064] 2. The panel according to clause 1, wherein at least one drainage segment is surrounded by adjacent coupling profiles.

[0065] 3. The panel according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of the first and second edges comprises at least three coupling profiles, wherein between each pair of adjacent first coupling profiles there is a drainage section.

[0066] 4. A panel according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one drainage segment is substantially defined by a vertical plane defined by the respective edge.

[0067] 5. The panel according to any of the preceding clauses, the first edge comprising at least one first drainage segment, and wherein the second edge comprises at least one further second drainage segment.

[0068] 6. The panel according to clause 5, wherein at least one first drain segment is at least partially aligned with at least one second drain segment such that in a coupled state of the panels the first drain segment of the panel faces the second drain segment of an adjacent panel.

[0069] 7. A panel according to clause 5 or 6, wherein the length of at least one first drain segment exceeds the length of at least one second drain segment.

[0070] 8. The panel according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the length of at least one drainage segment exceeds the length of at least one adjacent joining profile.

[0071] 9. The panel according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the length of at least one connecting profile exceeds the length of at least one adjacent connecting profile.

[0072] 10. The panel according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one first coupling profile comprises: a lateral tongue extending in a direction substantially parallel to a plane defined by the panels, wherein an upper side of said lateral tongue comprises at least one first locking element, such as an upwardly protruding locking element; and Wherein, at least one second coupling profile comprises: a groove configured to accommodate at least a portion of a lateral tongue of at least one first coupling profile of an adjacent panel, the groove being defined by an upper lip and a lower lip, wherein the lower lip extends beyond the upper lip, and wherein the underside of the upper lip comprises at least one second locking element, such as a downwardly facing recess, which is configured to face the first locking element of an adjacent panel in the coupled state of the panels and preferably cooperates with the first locking element to interlock the panels in a horizontal direction.

[0073] 11. A panel according to claim 10, wherein the first and second connecting profiles are configured so that two such panels can be connected to each other by a rotational movement, wherein, in the connected state: at least a portion of the lateral tongue of the first panel is inserted into the groove of the adjacent second panel, and wherein at least one second locking element of the first panel faces the first locking element of the adjacent panel and preferably acts together with the first locking element of the adjacent panel to interlock the two panels in horizontal and vertical directions.

[0074] 12. A panel according to clause 10 or 11, wherein the lower lip comprises an inner section located directly below the upper lip and a connecting outer section extending beyond an outer vertical plane defined by the upper lip, wherein the maximum height of the inner section is equal to or exceeds the maximum height of the outer section.

[0075] 13. The panel according to clause 12, wherein an upper surface of the lower lip, preferably an outer section of the lower lip, comprises at least one upward drainage groove.

[0076] 14. A panel according to any of clauses 10-13, wherein a lower lip of the panel is configured to engage with a stop surface of a second profile of an adjacent panel in a coupled state of the panels, wherein the stop surface is located at a lower level than a lateral tongue.

[0077] 15. A panel according to any of clauses 10-14, wherein the underside of the panel is provided with a longitudinal cutout portion connected and parallel to the first edge for accommodating each lower lip in a coupled state of adjacent panels.

[0078] 16. A panel according to any one of clauses 10-15, wherein the first connecting profile includes a first top located above the lateral tongue, wherein the first top preferably extends in a substantially vertical direction, and wherein the outer end of the upper lip defines a second top, wherein the second top preferably extends in a substantially vertical direction, and wherein in the connected state of the panel, the second top is configured to face the first top of an adjacent panel, preferably such that the first top and the opposite second top are at a certain distance from each other.

[0079] 17. The panel according to any of clauses 10-16, wherein at least one lower lip is provided with at least one curved side edge, preferably two curved side edges.

[0080] 18. The panel according to any of the clauses 10-17, wherein at least one lateral tongue is provided with at least one curved side edge, preferably with two curved side edges.

[0081] 19. The panel according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least two first connection profiles, in particular seen in cross-section, are identical.

[0082] 20. The panel according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least two first coupling profiles, in particular seen in cross-section, are mutually different.

[0083] 21. The panel according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least two first coupling profiles are, in particular seen in a top view, mirror-symmetrical first coupling profiles.

[0084] 22. The panel according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least two second coupling profiles are, in particular seen in top view, mirror-symmetrical second coupling profiles.

[0085] 23. The panel according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein each of at least one pair of adjacent first connecting profiles and at least one pair of opposite adjacent second connecting profiles encloses a receiving space for receiving a separate supporting structure supporting the panel, wherein the receiving spaces are aligned with each other.

[0086] 24. The panel according to clause 23, wherein the upper side of each receiving space is at least partially defined by a curved and / or inclined surface.

[0087] 25. A panel according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the underside of the panel comprises at least one bottom groove, preferably a transverse bottom groove, which preferably connects the first edge and the second edge, wherein the bottom groove, preferably the transverse bottom groove, is configured to accommodate a separate support structure for supporting the panel, and wherein the bottom groove is preferably connected and aligned with a pair of opposing, aligned receiving spaces to form a continuous receiving groove to accommodate a portion of the separate supporting structure.

[0088] 26. A panel according to any of clauses 23-25, wherein at least one accommodating space and / or at least one bottom groove, preferably a transverse bottom groove, comprises at least one third connecting profile, which is configured to interlock with at least one fourth connecting profile of the separate supporting structure in the horizontal direction and / or vertical direction.

[0089] 27. The panel according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least two second connection profiles, in particular seen in cross-section, are identical.

[0090] 28. Panel according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least two second connection profiles, in particular seen in cross-section, are different from each other.

[0091] 29. The panel according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the joining profile constitutes an integral part of the panel, in particular a core of a panel.

[0092] 30. The panel according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein a second pair of opposing edges of the panel, in particular the third edge and the fourth edge, are completely free of a joining profile.

[0093] 31. The panel according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the panel is a rectangular panel, preferably an oval panel.

[0094] 32. A panel according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the panel is at least partially an extruded panel, preferably a fully extruded panel, more preferably a fully co-extruded panel.

[0095] 33. A panel according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the panel is a monolithic panel.

[0096] 34. A panel according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the panel is a multilayer panel, preferably a coextruded multilayer panel, comprising a core layer and a top structure directly or indirectly attached to the core layer.

[0097] 35. A panel according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the panel is a hollow panel, which preferably encloses at least one internal channel connecting a third edge and a fourth edge, the internal channel is preferably located at a certain distance from the lower side of the panel and the upper side of the panel, and wherein each of the third edge and the fourth edge preferably connects the first edge with the second edge.

[0098] 36. A panel according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the panel is at least partially composed of at least one polymer material, preferably a thermoplastic material, wherein the polymer material is preferably enriched with at least one filler, more preferably selected from sawdust, wood powder, wood fibers, hemp fibers, bamboo, cotton, coffee, glass fibers and mineral fillers such as talc, chalk, limestone (calcium carbonate) and marble powder.

[0099] 37. The panel according to clause 36, wherein the thermoplastic material is selected from: PVC, PET, PP, PS, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), PE, in particular MDPE and / or HDPE; and combinations thereof.

[0100] 38. A panel according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the panel is a waterproof panel.

[0101] 39. A panel according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the panel is an outdoor deck panel.

[0102] 40. The panel according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the panel is a substantially rigid panel.

[0103] 41. A panel according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the length of the panel is between 1 and 4 meters, preferably between 1.5 and 4 meters, more preferably between 3 and 4 meters.

[0104] 42. A panel according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the panel has a thickness between 3 and 40 mm, preferably between 8 and 35 mm, more preferably between 10 and 30 mm.

[0105] 43. The panel according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the panel comprises a visible printed top surface, which is preferably at least partially covered by at least one transparent and / or translucent layer.

[0106] 44. A panel according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the upper side of the panel has a relief structure.

[0107] 45. The panel according to clause 44, wherein the relief structure is an extruded relief structure and / or a pressed relief structure and / or a printed relief structure.

[0108] 46. ​​A panel according to clause 44 or 45, wherein the relief structure comprises a plurality of parallel oriented elongated cutouts connecting opposite panel edges, such as the third edge and the fourth edge, and / or the first edge and the second edge.

[0109] 47. A panel according to any of clauses 44-46, wherein the depth of at least one recess increases towards at least one connecting panel edge.

[0110] 48. The panel of clause 47, wherein the depth of at least one recess increases from a central portion of the upper surface towards at least one connecting panel edge.

[0111] 49. The panel according to any of clauses 44-48, wherein the maximum depth of the recess is greater than 0.5 mm.

[0112] 50. A panel according to any of clauses 44 to 49, wherein the relief structure comprises a wood pattern, a stone pattern, a cement pattern or an image pattern.

[0113] 51. A panel according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the underside of the panel comprises a lower relief structure.

[0114] 52. A panel according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the panel is a co-extruded multilayer panel, and wherein the panel is a hollow panel, the hollow panel enclosing at least one internal channel, preferably an internal linear channel, the channel preferably connecting a third edge and a fourth edge, and wherein the peripheral wall of the at least one internal channel is partially formed by one layer of the multilayer panel and partially by at least one other layer, and wherein at least one of the layers defining the peripheral wall of the at least one internal channel preferably has a flat side facing the at least one internal channel.

[0115] 53. A covering consisting of a plurality of interconnected panels according to any of the preceding clauses.

[0116] 54. A panel system for forming a floor covering or a wall covering, in particular for outdoor use, comprising: - at least one panel according to any of clauses 23 to 26, and - At least one first supporting structure, which is configured to be partially received in at least one pair of aligned receiving spaces and / or bottom grooves, preferably transverse bottom grooves, applied to the underside of the panel.

[0117] 55. A panelling system according to claim 54, wherein at least one accommodating space and / or at least one bottom groove, preferably a transverse bottom groove, of at least one panel comprises at least one third connecting profile, and wherein the first supporting structure comprises at least one fourth connecting profile configured to interlock with the third connecting profile in a horizontal and / or vertical direction.

[0118] 56. A paneling system according to clause 55, wherein the third connection profile includes at least one third lateral tongue, and wherein the fourth connection profile includes at least one fourth groove configured to receive at least a portion of the third lateral tongue, wherein the fourth groove is defined by a fourth upper lip and a fourth lower lip.

[0119] 57. A panelling system according to claim 56, wherein the third connecting profile comprises two opposing third lateral tongues, the two third lateral tongues being at least partially located in the same plane and at a certain distance from each other, wherein the space enclosed by the two third lateral tongues is configured to accommodate a portion of at least one fourth connecting profile.

[0120] 58. The paneling system according to clause 56 or 57, wherein the fourth groove is configured to clamp at least one third lateral tongue.

[0121] 59. The paneling system according to any of the clauses 56-58, wherein the fourth lower lip is configured to support at least a third lateral tongue.

[0122] 60. The paneling system according to any of the clauses 56-59, wherein an underside of the third lateral tongue coincides with an underside of the panel.

[0123] 61. A panelling system according to any of clauses 56-60, wherein the fourth upper lip is provided with at least one upwardly protruding ridge which, in a coupled state of adjacent panels, is located between opposing, widely spaced chamfered surfaces of at least one third coupling profile.

[0124] 62. The paneling system of clause 61 , wherein the upwardly protruding ridge is configured to support the panel.

[0125] 63. The paneling system according to any of clauses 56-62, wherein each third coupling profile and each fourth coupling profile is configured to be coupled by a translational movement, preferably only by a translational movement, in particular in a direction parallel to a plane defined by the panels.

[0126] 64. A panelling system according to any one of clauses 53-63, wherein the panelling system comprises a plurality of interlockable or interlocked panels, wherein a first connecting profile of at least one panel is configured to interlock with a second connecting profile of at least one other panel so that paired aligned accommodating spaces of adjacent panels are aligned with each other and / or so that bottom grooves on adjacent panels, preferably transverse bottom grooves, are aligned with each other to jointly accommodate a portion of at least one first supporting structure.

[0127] 65. The paneling system according to clause 64, wherein the assembly of interlocking panels comprises a third coupling profile in interlocking engagement with at least one fourth coupling profile of the first supporting structure.

[0128] 66. The paneling system according to any of clauses 53-65, wherein the paneling system comprises a plurality of first support structures.

[0129] 67. The paneling system of clause 66, wherein a plurality of first support surfaces are oriented in a distanced and parallel manner to each other, wherein each first support structure is in interlocking engagement with a plurality of interlocking panels.

[0130] 68. The paneling system according to any of the clauses 53-67, wherein the paneling system comprises at least one second supporting surface which is free of any coupling profile and is configured to support only at least one panel, preferably a plurality of interlocking panels.

[0131] 69. The panelling system according to any of clauses 53-68, wherein at least one supporting structure comprises levelling feet, such as levelling screws, to level the supporting structure to the subfloor.

[0132] 70. The paneling system of clause 69, wherein the paneling system comprises at least one base plate configured to support a plurality of leveling feet simultaneously.

[0133] 71. A method of constructing a covering, in particular a floor covering, by using a panel system according to any of clauses 53 to 70, comprising the following steps: A) provide multiple panels, B) providing a plurality of first support structures, C) optionally providing a plurality of second support structures, D) interlocking at least two panels by coupling a first coupling profile of a panel to a second coupling profile of an adjacent panel, E) positioning a first support structure on a subfloor, such as a stable sand bed, and optionally positioning a second support structure (if applied) on said subfloor, and F) Interlocking the interlocking panels with the first supporting structure by coupling a third coupling profile of the panel to a fourth coupling profile of the first supporting structure, in particular by sliding an assembly of interlocking panels in a direction parallel to a plane defined by said panels.

[0134] 72. The method according to clause 71, wherein the method comprises a step G) comprising the step of leveling each support structure relative to the subfloor, wherein step G) is performed before step F). BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0135] The present invention will be further elucidated on the basis of the following non-limiting drawings, in which:

[0136] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a first embodiment of a panel system according to the invention;

[0137] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 a top view of the panel system shown;

[0138] Figure 3a-3d Showing different views of a panel according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0139] Figure 4 shows a side view of a single panel according to the invention;

[0140] Figure 5 shows a side view of a panel system according to the invention;

[0141] Figure 6a and 6b A perspective view showing a portion of a support structure of a panelling system according to the invention;

[0142] Figure 7a and 7b Two different perspective views of a panel according to the invention are shown in different coupled states. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0143] Figure 1 A perspective view of a first non-limiting embodiment of a panel system 100 according to the invention is shown. In this non-limiting example, the panel system 100 comprises two panels 101, 200 according to the invention. According to the invention, the panels 101, 200 are placed on a support structure 302, 303. Figure 3a-3d , Figure 5 and Figure 6a-6b The panels 101, 200 and the support structures 302, 303 are described in more detail. The panel system 100 consists of a floor covering or a wall covering. The support structures 302, 303 may be arranged so as to provide support for or carry the panels 101, 200. In this regard, it may be beneficial to provide one or more substrates 309. The substrates 309 may be arranged on a surface to be provided with a panel covering according to the present invention. However, it should be understood that an installation without the substrates 309 is also possible. The substrates 309 may provide support for one or more leveling feet 310. With respect to this particular figure, each substrate 309 supports two leveling feet 310, however, it is conceivable that the substrates 309 may support more or less leveling feet. The leveling feet may allow the support structures 302, 303 to be leveled to a preferred degree by the user. Thus, the covering may be adjusted to be substantially horizontal or, in fact, at a slight angle to increase drainage. Two types of support structures 302, 303 are provided, a first support structure 302 and a second support structure 303. The first support structure 302 comprises a coupling profile 304, which may be referred to as a fourth coupling profile 304. The fourth coupling profile 304 may be configured to cooperate, i.e. interlockingly engage with the third coupling profile 221 of the panel 101. The fourth coupling profile 304 comprises at least one fourth groove 305, which is configured to receive a portion of the third coupling profile 221 of the panel 101, 200. The fourth coupling profile 304 itself may be at least partially defined by a fourth upper lip 306 and a fourth lower lip 307. The fourth lower lip 307 may be configured to support at least a portion of the panel 101, 200. The first support structure 302 may also comprise an upwardly protruding ridge 308. In the coupled state of the panels 101, 200, the upwardly protruding ridge 308 may be located between the mutually facing edges 226 of the third coupling profile 221. The second support structure 303 preferably does not have any connecting profile and may include a support surface 311, which may be configured to support the bottom side of the panel 101, 200 according to the present invention. The second support structure 303 is particularly suitable for the beginning and end parts of the panel 101, 200. The length of the panel 101, 200 according to the present invention may be between 1 and 4 meters, preferably between 1.5 and 4 meters, more preferably between 3 and 4 meters. Optionally, as shown in the present embodiment, one or more false grouts and / or bevels 227 may be provided on the panel 101, 200. The false grouts and / or bevels 227 may optically give the impression that a single panel 101, 200 is composed of a plurality of panels. However, it is worth noting that the false grouts and / or bevels 227 may also be omitted on the panel 101, 200.

[0144] Figure 2 Shows Figure 11 , a top view of the paneling system shown. The figure shows that, according to this particular embodiment, the first support structure 302 and the second support structure 303 are oriented substantially perpendicular to the length direction of the panel 101, 200. However, it is conceivable, or in some cases preferred, to arrange the support structures 302, 303 at an acute or rectangular angle relative to the length direction of the panel 101, 200. It also shows that the lengths of different first support structures 302 and second support structures 303 can be different. In addition, a plurality of base plates 309 located on a surface having a panel covering can be positioned at different positions in the width direction relative to each other. Therefore, the leveling feet 310, such as screws 310, are also in different positions, which can provide greater flexibility when adjusting the paneling system 100. In addition, this can allow sufficient support to be provided over substantially the entire paneling system, because it can allow more contact points between the surface to be provided with the panel covering and the support structures 302, 303. The top perspective view of the panel system 100 according to the invention provides a better overview of the first edge 202 and the second edge 201 of the panel 101, 200 according to the invention. The first panel edge 202 is provided with a plurality of first connecting profiles 204. Similarly, the second panel edge 201 is provided with a plurality of second connecting profiles 203. At least a portion of the first edge 202 or the second edge 201 is preferably free of connecting profiles 203, 204 and comprises drainage sections 205, 260. Adjacent connecting profiles 203, 204 may preferably enclose one or more drainage sections 205, 206. The drainage sections 205, 206 allow water to be washed away from the upper (visible) surface 230 of the panel system 100 according to the invention. Thus, this may prevent the formation of water (or other liquid) puddles on the upper surface. The first connecting profile 204 and the second connecting profile 203 may have different lengths from each other, as shown for example in the figure by the first connecting profile A and the second connecting profile B. The connecting profile A is larger than the profile B. According to this non-limiting embodiment, drainage segments 205, 206 are provided between each adjacent first coupling profile 204 and each adjacent second coupling profile 203. The drainage segment arranged on the first edge 202 may be referred to as the first drainage segment 206, and the drainage segment arranged on the second edge 201 may be referred to as the second drainage segment 205. This may allow a large amount of drainage (or other liquids). As described above, the first coupling profile 204 may be larger or smaller than the second coupling profile 203. However, in this regard, it is preferred that at least one first drainage segment 206 is at least partially aligned with at least one second drainage segment 205, so that in the coupled state of the panels 101, 200, the first drainage segment 206 of the panels 101, 200 faces the second drainage segment 205 of the adjacent panels 101, 200. It is also conceivable that the length of the first drainage segment 206 exceeds the length of the second drainage segment 205. However, the reverse is also conceivable.However, it is also possible that a drainage section 205, 206 exceeds the length of the coupling profiles 203, 204. In order to further enhance the drainage performance of one or more drainage sections 205, 206, the side edges of at least one coupling profile of the first coupling profile 204 and / or the second coupling profile 203 can be provided with curved side edges 216, 219, as can be seen in particular from the top perspective view.

[0145] about Figure 3a-3d , various aspects of the panel 200 will be discussed in more detail. In these figures, Figure 3a A perspective view of a panel according to the invention is shown, showing the upper side of a panel 200 . Figure 3b A perspective view of the panel 200 is also shown, but it shows the underside of the panel 200 . Figure 3c A top perspective view of a panel 200 is shown, Figure 3d A side view of a panel 200 according to the present invention is provided. Figure 3a At the beginning, some details of the second panel edge 201 can be seen. A plurality of second connecting profiles 203 are arranged on the second panel edge 201. At least two adjacent connecting profiles 203 are arranged in a mirror-symmetrical manner, as shown by the indicative mirror line M. The mirror-symmetrical second connecting profiles 203 surround a drainage section 205 with each other. The edges facing each other of the mirror-symmetrical second connecting profiles 203 are basically straight, while the side edges 219 of the mirror-symmetrical second connecting profiles 203 that are away from each other are curved 219. The curved side edges 219 of the second connecting profile 203 can allow water (or other liquids) to drain more smoothly. As shown from the bottom end of the panel 200, the panel is particularly hollow, which can be achieved by at least one internal channel 224. The internal channel 224 can extend basically through the entire panel 200. The internal channel 224 can enter and exit the accommodating space 228 (see also Figure 3b and 3d ) and / or a bottom groove (preferably a transverse bottom groove) 218 ​​and / or with a receiving space 228 (see also Figure 3b and 3d ) and / or bottom grooves (preferably lateral bottom grooves) 218 ​​are connected to each other. However, the accommodating space 218 and the bottom grooves (preferably lateral bottom grooves) 218 ​​should be clearly distinguished. That is, Figure 3a As shown, the accommodation space 228 can be formed by a pair of adjacent second connecting profiles 203 (but can also be formed by Figure 3bPreferably, in the coupled state of the two panels 200, the accommodation space 228 defined by the pair of adjacent first coupling profiles 204 and the pair of adjacent second coupling profiles 203 may at least partially coincide, overlap or align. The bottom groove (preferably the transverse bottom groove) 218 ​​is located in the central part of the panel 200, such as Figure 3b The bottom groove (preferably a transverse bottom groove) 218 ​​is preferably aligned with at least one (preferably each) receiving space 228. If the bottom groove (preferably a transverse bottom groove) 218 ​​is aligned with two receiving spaces, a continuous receiving groove can be formed, which extends substantially over the entire width of the panel 200. Figure 2 2b shows the bottom surface 229 of the panel 200 according to the invention. Furthermore, the figure shows that this particular panel comprises two bottom grooves (preferably transverse bottom grooves) 218 ​​at a distance from each other. In this particular embodiment, each of these bottom grooves (preferably transverse bottom grooves) 218 ​​is aligned with a first accommodation space 228 defined by a pair of adjacent first coupling profiles 204 and a second accommodation space 227 defined by a pair of adjacent second coupling profiles 203. Thus, two continuous accommodation grooves 218, 228 are formed. These two continuous accommodation grooves 218, 228 allow at least partially accommodating a portion of the first support structure 302 and / or at least a portion of the second support structure 303, but most preferably a portion of the first support structure 302. Figure 3c and 3d A top view and a side view of the panel 200 are provided respectively. Figure 3c In the figure, the accommodation space 228 and the bottom groove (preferably a transverse bottom groove) 218 ​​are also shown. Figure 3d Continuous bottom grooves (preferably transverse bottom grooves) 218, 228 are shown. Figure 3c The top view shown also shows a false grout or bevel 227, of which there are two in this non-limiting panel 200. It is also shown that, at least from the top view, the receiving space 228 at least partially coincides with the drainage section 205. It can also be observed that the first connecting profile 204 and the second connecting profile 203 protrude relative to the first panel edge 202 and the second panel edge 201, respectively. Figure 3dAs shown, the third connection profile 221 extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the length of the panel 200. The third connection profile 221 is formed by at least one accommodating space 228 and / or at least one bottom groove (preferably a transverse bottom groove) 218. Or, in other words, at least one accommodating space 228 and / or at least one bottom groove (preferably a transverse bottom groove) 218 ​​comprises at least one third connection profile 221. The third connection profile 221 can be configured to engage with at least one fourth connection profile 304 of a separate support structure 302, 303 to lock at least in the horizontal direction and / or vertical direction. To this end, the third connection profile 221 can include at least one lateral tongue 226, which is configured to be at least partially accommodated in the groove 305 of the fourth connection profile 304. It is also conceivable that the third connection profile 221 includes two opposite lateral tongues 226, which are preferably facing each other. Preferably, the space surrounded by the two third lateral tongues 226 is configured to accommodate a portion of at least one fourth connection profile 304. The downwardly facing side of the third coupling profile 221 is provided with a chamfered surface which may be configured to rest on at least a portion of the upwardly protruding ridge 308 of the fourth coupling profile 304 .

[0146] Figure 4A cross section of a single panel 200 according to the invention is shown. The figure allows a more detailed explanation of the first coupling profile 204 and the second coupling profile 203. At least one first coupling profile 204 comprises a lateral tongue 208. The upper side or the upward facing surface of the lateral tongue 208 comprises at least one first locking element 210. In this particular embodiment, the first locking element 210 is formed by an upward facing protrusion 210. Preferably, the first locking element 210 extends beyond the average surface height of the lateral tongue 208. Thus, the first locking element can be used as a horizontal locking element. The lower side of the panel 200 is provided with a cutout portion 212, which according to this embodiment is connected and parallel to the first edge 202. The cutout portion is used to allow the first edge 202 to accommodate a part of the second coupling profile 203, in particular its lower lip 209. The downward facing surface of the lateral tongue 208 may be provided with a bevel 240. The bevel 240 may allow the panel to tilt downwards into the second coupling profile 203 of the adjacent panel 200. This can simplify the coupling process of adjacent panels 200. The second coupling profile 203 comprises a groove 207 for accommodating at least a portion of a lateral tongue 208 of the first coupling profile 204. The groove 207 is at least partially defined by a lower lip 209 and an upper lip 211. In the coupled state of the adjacent panels 200, the lower lip 209 can be accommodated by a cutout portion 212. In this particular embodiment, the downwardly facing surface of the upper lip 211 is provided with a second locking element 213. In this embodiment, the second locking element 213 can be formed by a recess 213. The second locking element is configured to receive at least a portion of the first locking element 210, wherein the first locking element 210 and the second locking element 213 mutually lock the adjacent panels 200. At least one lower lip 209 can be provided with a recessed portion 215, which can be used as a drainage channel. It is also conceivable that the recessed portion 215 can be used to provide a screw passing through the lower lip 209. In the case where the lower lip 209 and the panels 101, 200 are attached to the mounting structure and / or the supporting structure, this may be beneficial. In the latter application, the recessed portion 215 can accommodate the head of the screw so that the screw does not protrude with the upwardly facing surface of the lower lip 209. The above-mentioned screws can be placed once every one meter, for example, but the present invention is not limited to this. The upper surface 230 of the panel 200 can be provided with a relief structure 225, which can include a plurality of recessed portions 225. The recessed portions 225 can extend over the entire length of the panel 200, or can extend over a portion thereof. Although it is conceivable that the recessed portions 225 are substantially horizontal, it is also conceivable that the first end of the recessed portions 225 is lower than the opposite second end of the recessed portions 225. In addition, at least one through hole can be optionally provided at at least one recessed portion to allow water to be discharged through the hole. In this regard, the hole can extend through the entire panel 200.The central part of the panel 200 may be substantially hollow 224. This may reduce the weight of the panel, thereby reducing material and transportation costs. The panel 200 may include a core 241. In this regard, at least one first coupling profile 204 and at least one second coupling profile 203 constitute an integral part of the core 241. The core 241 may be at least partially composed of a thermoplastic material selected from: PVC, PET, PP, PS, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), PE, in particular MDPE and / or HDPE; and combinations thereof. The panel may optionally include a top structure 222, wherein the top structure 222 is preferably coextruded with the core 241. Thus, the top structure 222 is directly or indirectly fixed to the core 241. It is conceivable that each of the first coupling profile 204 and the second coupling profile 203 comprises a first top 214 and a second top 217, respectively. The first top 214 and the second top 217 preferably extend in a vertical direction. The first top 214 is located above the lateral tongue 208 of the first coupling profile 204. The second top 217 may be at least partially, preferably completely, formed by the outer end of the upper lip 211. When adjacent panels are connected to each other, the opposite tops 214, 217 are preferably at a distance from each other. Therefore, the gap between the tops 214, 217 can be used as drainage.

[0147] Figure 5A side perspective view of a panel system 100 according to the invention is shown. The figure shows two panels 101, 200 in a mutually coupled state. As can be seen from the figure, a lateral tongue 208 of a first coupling profile 204 of a first panel is at least partially received by a groove 207 of a second coupling profile 203 of a second adjacent panel 200. A first locking element 210 is partially accommodated in a second locking element 213, which locks two adjacent panels 200 relative to each other in a horizontal and / or vertical direction. In order to prevent friction between the first coupling profile 204 and the second coupling profile 203 during the locking operation, the lateral tongue 208 is provided with a chamfer 240 at its bottom end. The lateral tongue 208 of the first panel can be moved towards the groove 207 of the second locking profile 203 of the adjacent second panel at a downwardly directed angle. Once the lateral tongue 208 of the first panel is maximally inserted into the groove 207 of the adjacent second panel, the first panel can be rotated downward to a more horizontal position. This can allow the first locking element 210 to engage with the second locking element 213 and establish an interlocking connection between the first panel and the second panel. Once the condition of mutual coupling is established, the first top 214 of the second panel and the second top 217 of the first panel can be located at a mutual distance 227. The mutual distance 217 between the adjacent edges of the coupled panels can allow the discharge of increased water (or other liquids). The figure also shows that the panels 101, 200 are oriented orthogonally relative to the supporting structures 302, 303. The supporting structures 302, 303 themselves are provided with leveling feet 310. The leveling feet 310 rest on the substrate 309. The substrate 309 can increase the weight distribution of the panel system 100. That is, compared with the end of the leveling feet 310, it can better distribute the pressure caused by the weight of the panels 101, 200 and the supporting structures 302, 303.

[0148] Figure 6a and 6b The second support structure 303 and the first support structure 302 according to the present invention are shown respectively. Figure 6a, the support structure 303 itself is provided with two pairs of leveling feet 310. The leveling feet 310 rest on two base plates 309. The base plates 309 can increase the weight distribution of the panel system 100. That is, it can better distribute the pressure caused by the weight of the panels 101, 200 placed on the second support structure 303 and the weight of the second support structure 303 itself compared to the ends of the leveling feet 310. The first support structure 302 is shown without the leveling feet 310 and / or the base plates 309, however it should be understood that these can also be applied to the first support structure 302. The first support structure 302 includes a fourth coupling profile 304. The fourth coupling profile 304 is configured to interlock with the third coupling profile 221 in the horizontal and / or vertical direction. Preferably, the third coupling profile 221 can be coupled to the fourth coupling profile 304 by a sliding or translational movement of the panel, preferably a horizontal sliding or translation. In this non-limiting embodiment, the fourth coupling profile 304 is formed by a single fourth groove 305. However, variations thereof are also conceivable. Figure 6b , the fourth groove 305 faces in one direction, but the invention should not exclude the alternative of having two or more fourth grooves. When two fourth grooves 305 are applied, the two fourth grooves 305 preferably face in opposite outward directions. The fourth groove 305 can be defined by a fourth upper lip 306 and a fourth lower lip 307. The first support structure 302 also includes at least one upwardly protruding ridge 308. The ridge 308 is located between relatively distant, preferably chamfered surfaces 226 of at least one third coupling profile 221 in the coupled state of adjacent panels. Preferably, the first support structure 302 and the second support structure 303 are extruded profiles. Optionally, some additional processing steps may be involved, such as providing holes for leveling feet 310.

[0149] Figure 7aTwo panels 200 (parts) in the first connection state are shown. In the figure, panel 200 is shown from the bottom side, so as to further describe the third connection profile 221 and the accommodating space 228 and bottom groove (preferably horizontal bottom groove) 218 ​​according to the present invention in detail. As shown in the figure from the bottom side, the left panel 200 is connected with the adjacent (as shown in the bottom side, the right panel) panel 200. In this regard, the first connection profile 204 of the right panel 200 is at least partially received by the second connection profile 203 of the left panel 200. Therefore, the tongue 208 of the first connection profile 204 of the right panel 200 is inserted into the groove 207 of the left panel 200. Therefore, as shown in the figure, mutual connection is established between the left panel 200 and the right panel 200 at least in the vertical and horizontal directions. As shown in the figure, each (segment) of panel 200 includes bottom groove (preferably horizontal bottom groove) 218, and also includes a pair of accommodating space 228. As previously mentioned, the accommodation space 228 can be defined by a pair of adjacent first connecting profiles 204 (but the same is true for a pair of second connecting profiles 203), which are at a certain distance from each other. The bottom groove (preferably a transverse bottom groove) 218 ​​is formed by a groove 218 in the central part of the panel 200, which extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the length of the panel 200. Preferably, at least one bottom groove (preferably a transverse bottom groove) 218 ​​is aligned with at least one accommodation space 228 (and is therefore formed by a pair of adjacent second connecting profiles 203 or a pair of adjacent first connecting profiles 204). Preferably, at least one bottom groove (preferably a transverse bottom groove) is aligned with two accommodation spaces 228, as shown in the figure. For each panel 200, the bottom groove (preferably a transverse bottom groove) 218 ​​is aligned with the two accommodation spaces 228 of the corresponding panel 200. Therefore, in this figure, a continuous accommodation groove 218, 228 is established for each panel 200. However, in this particular Figure 7a In the embodiment, two continuous receiving grooves 218, 228 are not aligned with each other. Although two continuous receiving grooves 218, 228 of two panels 200 are parallel to each other (as shown by center lines C1, C2), they do not overlap. Figure 7b 200 in a second coupled state. In this particular second example of coupled panels 200, two consecutive receiving spaces are aligned with each other so that the center lines C1, C2 of the consecutive receiving spaces coincide. That is, if the panels 200 are shown as shown in FIG. Figure 7a and 7b The side views of the two connected states shown in FIG. Figure 7b The connected panels are seen at least through the continuous receiving space formed by the bottom groove (preferably the transverse bottom groove) 218 ​​of the panel 200 and the receiving space 228. Figure 7bIn the embodiment, it should be noted that two receiving spaces 228 overlap each other, which explains why only three receiving spaces 228 can be seen in this connected state of the panel 200. In this respect, the middle receiving space 228 can be fed back as a overlapping receiving space 228. However, in accordance with Figure 7a and 7b When comparing these two connection conditions, a second remark should be made. After all, it is conceivable that the panel covering according to the invention comprises some aligned bottom grooves (preferably transverse bottom grooves) 218 ​​and receiving spaces 228, or continuous receiving spaces, and some non-aligned receiving spaces. Figure 7b In the alignment shown, the support structure can be configured to be received in the continuous receiving grooves 218, 228 along its entire length. In addition, it can be noted that according to Figure 7b In the alignment shown, the third coupling profiles 221 of each panel 200 are aligned with each other, which may form a common third coupling profile 221. This may allow the support structures 302, 303 to be positioned anywhere along the common coupling profile 221 established by the alignment configuration. Figure 7a and 7b The third coupling profile 221 comprises two mutually facing and opposite lateral tongues 226 . The two mutually facing and opposite lateral tongues 226 are configured to be at least partially accommodated in a groove 305 of a fourth coupling profile 304 of the first support structure 302 .

[0150] Thus, the above-described inventive concepts are illustrated by several illustrative embodiments. It is conceivable that each inventive concept may be applied without applying the other details of the examples described. It is not necessary to describe in detail all possible combinations of examples of the above-described inventive concepts, as those skilled in the art will appreciate that many inventive concepts may be (re)combined in order to achieve a particular application. The various embodiments of the panels described above and in the appended claims may be combined with such alternative panel configurations.

[0151] "Horizontal" refers to a direction extending parallel to a plane defined by the floor panels and possibly intersecting the core. "Vertical" refers to a direction perpendicular to said plane defined by the floor panels. Ordinal numbers used herein, such as "first", "second" and "third", are used for identification purposes only. Thus, the use of a "third joining profile" and a "fourth joining profile" does not necessarily require the simultaneous presence of a "first joining profile" or a "second joining profile".

[0152] "Complementary" coupling profiles mean that these coupling profiles can cooperate with each other. However, for this purpose, the complementary coupling profiles do not necessarily have to have a complementary form. The panels according to the invention can be used, for example, as floor panels, but also as wall covering elements, ceiling covering elements or alternative covering elements. In this context, the directional expression "horizontal" is to be understood as parallel to or lying together with the plane defined by the panel and the directional expression "vertical" is to be understood as perpendicular to the plane of the panel.

[0153] It is obvious that the invention is not limited to the working examples shown and described herein, but that many variations are possible within the scope of the appended claims, which will be obvious to a person skilled in the art.

[0154] The verb "to comprise" and its variations as used in this patent disclosure are understood to mean not only "to include", but also the phrases "including", "consisting essentially of", "formed of", and variations thereof.

Claims

1. A panel for forming a floor covering or a wall covering, comprising: a first edge comprising a plurality of first coupling profiles, and a second edge, preferably opposite the first edge, the second edge comprising a plurality of second coupling profiles, wherein each second coupling profile is configured to interlockingly engage with at least one first coupling profile of an adjacent panel in horizontal and vertical directions, wherein the first edge and / or the second edge comprises at least one drainage section without a coupling profile to promote water flow between the first edge of the panel and the second edge of an opposite adjacent panel in the coupled state of the panels, and Wherein, the underside of the panel comprises at least one bottom groove connecting the first edge and the second edge, wherein the bottom groove is configured to accommodate a separate support structure for supporting the panel.

2. The panel according to claim 1, wherein At least one drainage section is surrounded by adjacent connecting contours.

3. A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein At least one of the first and second edges comprises at least three coupling profiles, wherein a drainage section is present between each pair of adjacent first coupling profiles.

4. A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein At least one drainage segment is substantially defined by a vertical plane defined by the respective edge.

5. A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, the first edge comprising at least one first drainage segment, and wherein: The second edge includes at least one second drainage segment.

6. The panel according to claim 5, wherein At least one first drain segment is at least partially aligned with at least one second drain segment such that in a coupled state of the panels the first drain segment of the panel faces the second drain segment of an adjacent panel.

7. A panel according to claim 5 or 6, wherein: The length of at least one first drainage segment exceeds the length of at least one second drainage segment.

8. A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The length of at least one drainage section exceeds the length of at least one adjacent coupling profile.

9. A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The length of at least one coupling contour exceeds the length of at least one adjacent coupling contour.

10. A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The at least one first coupling profile comprises: a lateral tongue extending in a direction substantially parallel to a plane defined by the panels, wherein an upper side of the lateral tongue comprises at least one first locking element, such as an upwardly protruding locking element; and Wherein, at least one second connection profile comprises: A groove configured to accommodate at least a portion of a lateral tongue of at least one first coupling profile of an adjacent panel, the groove being defined by an upper lip and a lower lip, wherein the lower lip extends beyond the upper lip, and wherein the underside of the upper lip comprises at least one second locking element, such as a downwardly facing recess, which is configured to face the first locking element of an adjacent panel in the coupled state of the panels and preferably cooperates with the first locking element to interlock the panels in a horizontal direction.

11. The panel according to claim 10, wherein The first and second connecting profiles are configured such that two such panels can be connected to each other by a rotational movement, wherein, in the connected state: at least a portion of the lateral tongue of the first panel is inserted into the groove of the adjacent second panel, and wherein at least one second locking element of the first panel faces the first locking element of the adjacent panel and preferably acts together with the first locking element of the adjacent panel to interlock the two panels in horizontal and vertical directions.

12. A panel according to claim 10 or 11, wherein The lower lip includes an inner segment directly below the upper lip and a connected outer segment extending beyond an outer vertical plane defined by the upper lip, wherein a maximum height of the inner segment equals or exceeds a maximum height of the outer segment.

13. The panel according to claim 12, wherein The upper surface of the outer section of the lower lip includes at least one upward drainage groove.

14. The panel according to claim 13, wherein The upward drainage groove divides the outer section of the lower lip into a proximal portion of the outer section connected to the inner section and a distal portion of the outer section of the lower lip located at a certain distance from the inner section, wherein the thickness of the distal portion of the outer section of the lower lip is equal to or less than the thickness of the proximal portion of the outer section of the lower lip.

15. A panel according to any one of claims 10 to 14, wherein The length of the lower lip is at least 1.5 times, and approximately 2 times, the length of the upper lip.

16. A panel according to any one of claims 10 to 15, wherein The maximum thickness of the upper lip is at least 2 times the maximum thickness of the lower lip.

17. A panel according to any one of claims 10 to 16, wherein The lower lip of the panel is configured to engage with a stop surface of a second profile of an adjacent panel in a coupled state of the panels, wherein the stop surface is located at a lower level than the lateral tongue.

18. A panel according to any one of claims 10 to 17, wherein The underside of the panels is provided with a longitudinal cutout portion connected to and parallel to the first edge for accommodating each lower lip in a coupled state of adjacent panels.

19. A panel according to any one of claims 10 to 18, wherein The first connecting profile comprises a first top portion above the lateral tongue, wherein the first top portion preferably extends in a substantially vertical direction, and wherein an outer end of the upper lip defines a second top portion, wherein the second top portion preferably extends in a substantially vertical direction, and wherein, in a connected state of the panels, the second top portion is configured to face the first top portion of an adjacent panel, preferably such that the first top portion and the opposite second top portion are at a distance from each other.

20. A panel according to any one of claims 10 to 19, wherein The at least one lower lip is provided with at least one curved side edge, preferably with two curved side edges.

21. A panel according to any one of claims 10 to 20, wherein At least one lateral tongue is provided with at least one curved side edge, preferably with two curved side edges.

22. A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein At least two first coupling contours are identical, in particular when viewed in cross section.

23. A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein At least two first coupling contours differ from one another, in particular when viewed in cross section.

24. A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The at least two first coupling contours are mirror-symmetrical first coupling contours, in particular when viewed in plan view.

25. A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The at least two second coupling contours are mirror-symmetrical second coupling contours, in particular when viewed in plan view.

26. A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein Each of at least one pair of adjacent first coupling profiles and at least one pair of opposite adjacent second coupling profiles encloses a receiving space for receiving a separate supporting structure supporting the panel, wherein the receiving spaces are aligned with each other.

27. The panel of claim 26, wherein The upper side of each receiving space is at least partially defined by a curved and / or beveled surface.

28. A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The underside of the panel comprises at least one transverse bottom groove connecting the first edge and the second edge, wherein the transverse bottom groove is configured to accommodate a separate support structure for supporting the panel, and wherein the bottom groove, preferably the transverse bottom groove, is preferably connected and aligned with a pair of opposing, aligned receiving spaces to form a continuous receiving groove for accommodating a portion of the separate support structure.

29. A panel according to any one of claims 26 to 28, wherein At least one receiving space and / or at least one bottom recess, preferably a transverse bottom recess, comprises at least one third coupling profile, which is configured for interlocking engagement with at least one fourth coupling profile of the separate support structure in horizontal and / or vertical direction.

30. A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein At least two second coupling contours are identical, in particular when viewed in cross section.

31. A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein At least two second coupling contours differ from one another, in particular when viewed in cross section.

32. A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The connection profile forms a component of the panel, in particular a core of the panel.

33. A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The second pair of opposite edges of the panel, in particular the third edge and the fourth edge, are completely free of a joining profile.

34. A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The panels are rectangular panels, preferably oval panels.

35. A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The panel is at least partly an extruded panel, preferably a fully extruded panel, more preferably a fully co-extruded panel.

36. A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The panel is a monolithic panel.

37. A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The panel is a multilayer panel, preferably a coextruded multilayer panel, comprising a core layer and a top structure directly or indirectly attached to the core layer.

38. A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The panel is a hollow panel, which preferably encloses at least one internal channel, preferably an internal linear channel, connecting the third edge and the fourth edge, wherein the internal channel is preferably located at a distance from the lower side of the panel and the upper side of the panel, and wherein each of the third edge and the fourth edge preferably connects the first edge and the second edge.

39. A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The panel consists at least partially of at least one polymer material, preferably a thermoplastic material, wherein the polymer material is preferably enriched with at least one filler, more preferably selected from sawdust, wood flour, wood fibers, hemp fibers, bamboo, cotton, coffee, glass fibers and mineral fillers such as talc, chalk, limestone (calcium carbonate) and marble powder.

40. The panel of claim 39, wherein The thermoplastic material is selected from the group consisting of: PVC, PET, PP, PS, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), PE, in particular MDPE and / or HDPE; and combinations thereof.

41. A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The panels are waterproof panels.

42. A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The paneling is outdoor deck paneling.

43. A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The panel is a substantially rigid panel.

44. A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The length of the panels is between 1 and 4 meters, preferably between 1.5 and 4 meters, more preferably between 3 and 4 meters.

45. A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The thickness of the panels is between 3 and 40 mm, preferably between 8 and 35 mm, more preferably between 10 and 30 mm.

46. ​​A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The panel comprises a visible printed top side which is preferably at least partially covered by at least one transparent and / or translucent layer.

47. A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The upper side of the panel has a relief structure.

48. The panel of claim 47, wherein The relief structure is an extruded relief structure and / or a pressed relief structure and / or a printed relief structure.

49. A panel as claimed in claim 47 or 48, wherein The relief structure comprises a plurality of parallel oriented elongated cutouts connecting opposing panel edges, such as the third edge and the fourth edge, and / or the first edge and the second edge.

50. A panel according to any one of claims 47 to 49, wherein The depth of the at least one recess increases towards the at least one connecting panel edge.

51. The panel of claim 50, wherein The depth of at least one recess increases from a central portion of the upper surface towards at least one connecting panel edge.

52. A panel according to any one of claims 47 to 51, wherein The maximum depth of the concave portion is greater than 0.5 mm.

53. A panel according to any one of claims 47 to 52, wherein The relief structure includes a wood pattern, a stone pattern, a cement pattern or an image pattern.

54. A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The underside of the panel comprises a lower relief structure.

55. A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The panel is a co-extruded multilayer panel, and wherein the panel is a hollow panel, the hollow panel enclosing at least one internal channel, preferably an internal linear channel, the channel preferably connecting the third edge and the fourth edge, and wherein the peripheral wall of the at least one internal channel is partially formed by one layer of the multilayer panel and partially formed by at least one other layer of the multilayer panel, and wherein at least one of the layers defining the peripheral wall of the at least one internal channel preferably has a flat side facing the at least one internal channel.

56. A covering consisting of a plurality of interconnected panels as claimed in any preceding claim.

57. A panel system for forming a floor covering or a wall covering, in particular for outdoor applications, comprising: at least one panel according to any one of claims 1 to 55, and At least one first supporting structure, which is configured to be partially received in at least one pair of aligned receiving spaces and / or bottom grooves, preferably transverse bottom grooves, applied on the underside of the panel.

58. The panel system of claim 57, wherein: At least one accommodating space and / or at least one bottom groove, preferably a transverse bottom groove, of at least one panel comprises at least one third connecting profile, and wherein the first supporting structure comprises at least one fourth connecting profile, which is configured to interlock with the third connecting profile in horizontal and / or vertical direction.

59. The panel system of claim 58, wherein: The third coupling profile comprises at least one third lateral tongue, and wherein the fourth coupling profile comprises at least one fourth groove configured to receive at least a portion of the third lateral tongue, wherein the fourth groove is defined by a fourth upper lip and a fourth lower lip.

60. The panel system of claim 59, wherein: The third connection profile comprises two opposing third lateral tongues which are at least partially located in the same plane and at a distance from each other, wherein a space enclosed by the two third lateral tongues is configured to accommodate a portion of at least one fourth connection profile.

61. A panelling system as claimed in claim 59 or 60, wherein: Said fourth groove is configured to clamp at least one third lateral tongue.

62. A panelling system according to any one of claims 59 to 61, wherein: Said fourth lower lip is configured to support at least a third lateral tongue.

63. A panelling system according to any one of claims 59 to 62, wherein: The underside of the third lateral tongue coincides with the underside of the panel.

64. A panelling system according to any one of claims 59 to 63, wherein: The fourth upper lip is provided with at least one upwardly protruding ridge which, in the coupled state of adjacent panels, is situated between opposite, distal chamfered surfaces of at least one third coupling profile.

65. The panel system of claim 64, wherein: The upwardly projecting ridge is configured to support the panel.

66. A panelling system according to any one of claims 59 to 65, wherein: Each third coupling profile and each fourth coupling profile is configured to couple by a translational movement, preferably only by a translational movement, in particular in a direction parallel to a plane defined by the panels.

67. A panelling system according to any one of claims 56 to 66, wherein: The panel system comprises a plurality of interlockable or interlocked panels, wherein a first connecting profile of at least one panel is configured to interlock with a second connecting profile of at least one other panel so that paired aligned accommodating spaces of adjacent panels are aligned with each other and / or so that bottom grooves of adjacent panels, preferably transverse bottom grooves, are aligned with each other to jointly accommodate a portion of at least one first supporting structure.

68. The panel system of claim 67, wherein: The assembly of interlocking panels comprises a third coupling profile in interlocking engagement with at least one fourth coupling profile of the first supporting structure.

69. A panelling system according to any one of claims 56 to 68, wherein: The panel system includes a plurality of first support structures.

70. The panel system of claim 69, wherein: A plurality of first support surfaces are oriented in a distanced and parallel manner to one another, wherein each first support structure is in interlocking engagement with a plurality of interlocking panels.

71. A panelling system according to any one of claims 56 to 70, wherein: The panel system comprises at least one second supporting surface without any coupling profile, the at least one second supporting surface being configured to support only at least one panel, preferably a plurality of interlocking panels.

72. A panelling system according to any one of claims 56 to 71, wherein: At least one of the support structures includes leveling feet, such as leveling screws, to level the support structure to the subfloor.

73. The panel system of claim 72, wherein: The paneling system includes at least one base plate configured to simultaneously support a plurality of leveling feet.

74. A method of constructing a covering, in particular a floor covering, by using a panel system according to any one of claims 57 to 73, comprising the following steps: A) provide multiple panels, B) providing a plurality of first support structures, C) optionally providing a plurality of second support structures, D) interlocking at least two panels by coupling a first coupling profile of a panel to a second coupling profile of an adjacent panel, E) positioning a first support structure on a subfloor, such as a stable sand bed, and optionally positioning a second support structure, if applied, on said subfloor, and F) Interlocking the interlocking panels with the first supporting structure by coupling a third coupling profile of the panel to a fourth coupling profile of the first supporting structure, in particular by sliding an assembly of interlocking panels in a direction parallel to a plane defined by said panels.

75. The method of claim 74, wherein: The method comprises a step G) comprising the step of leveling each support structure relative to the subfloor, wherein step G) is performed before step F).

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