Building panel comprising locking system

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a building panel (1, 1 ') comprising a locking system for locking a first edge portion of a first building panel (1) to an adjacent second edge portion of a second building panel (1'). The locking system includes a tongue and a tongue groove that are configured to cooperate for vertical locking. The tongue groove includes an upper lip portion and a lower lip portion horizontally protruding beyond the upper lip portion. In the locked state of the building panel, the outer end (17) of the lower vertical locking surface (13) of the tongue is arranged closer to a locking element in the horizontal direction than the outer end (16) of the upper vertical locking surface (12 ') of the upper lip, said locking element being arranged on the strip extending beyond the upper portion of the first edge portion. Alternatively or additionally, the inner end (21) of the lower vertical locking surface (13 ') of the lower lip is arranged closer to the locking element in the horizontal direction than the inner end (22) of the upper vertical locking surface (12) of the tongue.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the patent application with application number 202180025330.4. The application date of the original application is April 1, 2021, and the name is "Building panel including locking system". Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to building panels, such as floor panels, comprising a locking system, preferably a mechanical locking system. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to building panels comprising a locking system, which is preferably integrally formed with a core of the building panels and is preferably configured to be assembled by angling. The building panels may be floor panels, which are preferably configured to provide a floating floor. Background Art

[0003] WO 2013 / 191632 A1 discloses building panels provided with a locking system for locking a first edge of a first building panel to an adjacent second edge of a second building panel. The locking system comprises a tongue and a tongue groove configured to cooperate for vertical locking. The first edge comprises a strip provided with a locking element configured to cooperate with a locking groove formed in the second edge for horizontal locking. The tongue protrudes outwardly beyond a vertical surface provided along the joint edge, and the tongue groove comprises a lower lip and an upper lip. The horizontal extension of the lower lip relative to the upper lip is smaller than the horizontal extension of the tongue.

[0004] One advantage of this type of locking system is that the adjacent edges can be easily guided into position during assembly. Furthermore, the locking system can provide a high locking strength and less material waste can be achieved when forming the locking system. When the tongue cooperates with the lower lip and the upper lip at the lower and upper vertical locking surfaces, a double seal can be provided.

[0005] However, despite these and many other advantages of locking systems of this type, there is still room for improvement, for example in terms of their acoustic properties. Summary of the invention

[0006] It is therefore an object of at least some embodiments of the present disclosure to provide building panels comprising a locking system wherein the risk and / or intensity of generating noise and / or creaking is reduced.

[0007] Another object is to provide such building panels while maintaining or preferably improving one or more properties of the locking system, such as its sealing properties, locking strength, guiding capabilities or the like.

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

[0009] According to a first aspect of the disclosure, a building panel is provided, comprising a locking system for vertically and horizontally locking a first edge portion of a first building panel to an adjacent second edge portion of a second building panel. In a locked state of the first and second building panels, the upper portions of the first and second edge portions together define a vertical plane VP perpendicular to a horizontal plane HP parallel to a front and / or back side of the building panels. The locking system comprises a tongue arranged in the first edge portion and a tongue groove arranged in the second edge portion, the tongue and the tongue groove being configured to cooperate, e.g. engage, for vertical locking. The tongue groove comprises an upper lip and a lower lip preferably protruding in horizontal direction beyond the upper lip, wherein the tongue is configured to cooperate with the upper lip at an upper vertical locking surface and to cooperate with the lower lip at a lower vertical locking surface. The locking system comprises a locking element arranged in the first edge portion and a downwardly opening locking groove arranged in the second edge portion, the locking element and the locking groove being configured to cooperate, e.g. engage, for horizontal locking, wherein the locking element is arranged on a strip extending beyond the upper portion of the first edge portion.

[0010] In the locked state of the first and second building panels, the outer end of the lower vertical locking surface of the tongue is arranged horizontally closer to the locking element than the outer end of the upper vertical locking surface of the upper lip. Alternatively or additionally, in the locked state of the first and second building panels, the inner end of the lower vertical locking surface of the lower lip may be arranged horizontally closer to the locking element than the inner end of the upper vertical locking surface of the tongue.

[0011] According to the present disclosure, the upper vertical locking surface and the lower vertical locking surface may overlap in the horizontal direction. For example, the lower vertical locking surface may extend further into the tongue groove. Thus, the risk of vertical relative displacement and / or tilting of the building panel when subjected to load may be reduced. As a result, for example, noise and / or creaking of the building panel may be reduced when the building panel is subjected to load. For example, the building panel in the form of a floor panel may be subjected to load when a person walks on it.

[0012] Generally speaking, the words "upper, upper or upward" can be a direction or position towards the front of the panel, and the words "lower, lower or downward" can be a direction or position towards the back. The words "inside, inward" can be a direction or position towards the center of the panel, preferably horizontal, and the words "outside, outward" can be a direction or position away from the center of the panel, preferably horizontal.

[0013] The outer end of the lower vertical locking surface may be the outermost part of the lower vertical locking surface. The outer end of the upper vertical locking surface may be the outermost part of the upper vertical locking surface. The inner end of the upper vertical locking surface of the tenon may be spaced apart from the vertical surface. The inner end of the lower vertical locking surface of the lower lip may be spaced apart from the innermost part of the tenon groove.

[0014] The horizontal extension, e.g. the maximum horizontal extension, of the lower vertical locking surface of the tongue and / or the lower vertical locking surface of the lower lip may be greater than the horizontal extension, e.g. the maximum horizontal extension, of the upper vertical locking surface of the upper lip and / or the upper vertical locking surface of the tongue.

[0015] The locking element and the locking groove may cooperate at a horizontal locking surface.

[0016] Generally speaking herein, the horizontal and / or vertical locking surfaces may cooperate by direct engagement or indirectly. In any embodiments described herein, a sealant, such as wax or adhesive, may be provided between the locking surfaces, thereby providing an example of indirect engagement.

[0017] Each horizontal locking surface may be substantially planar.

[0018] In the locked state of the building panels each horizontal locking surface may be vertically and / or horizontally spaced apart from a joining part provided in the first building panel at an inner base of the locking element.

[0019] The horizontal locking surface may extend below, for example completely below, a horizontal strip plane arranged along an upper strip surface arranged inside the locking element.

[0020] The locking element and / or the projection of the second edge portion may comprise a chamfer, wherein the projection is configured to be arranged in the recess of the first edge portion, preferably in the locked state.

[0021] The locking system may be configured to assemble the first and second edge portions by angular tilting of the first and second building panels relative to each other. Alternatively or additionally, the locking system may be configured to assemble the first and second edge portions by horizontal displacement of the first and second building panels relative to each other.

[0022] During angular tilting, angular displacement may occur between the two parts being assembled or disassembled. When angular tilting involves assembly of two floor panels, during at least a portion of the displacement, angular movement typically occurs when upper portions of the joining edge portions at least partially engage each other.

[0023] The building panels may comprise a core and optionally a top layer and / or a balancing layer. For example, the top layer may comprise a decorative layer and / or a protective layer, such as a wear layer, a lacquer or a wax.

[0024] The tongue and / or the strip may be integrally formed with the core of the building panels.Preferably, the upper lip and / or the lower lip are also integrally formed with the core.

[0025] The horizontal, preferably maximum extension of the tongue from the vertical surface can be greater than the horizontal, preferably maximum extension of the lower lip from the vertical surface and / or the upper lip. Alternatively, the horizontal, preferably maximum extension of the lower lip from the vertical surface and / or the upper lip can be greater than the horizontal, preferably maximum extension of the tongue from the vertical surface.

[0026] The upper vertical locking surface and the lower vertical locking surface may be substantially parallel to a horizontal plane.

[0027] The upper vertical locking surface and the lower vertical locking surface may be offset in the horizontal direction such that the upper vertical locking surface is arranged closer to the locking element in the horizontal direction than the lower vertical locking surface.

[0028] The locking system may further comprise an outer vertical locking surface arranged horizontally outside the tongue in the locked state. By providing a contact, e.g. permanent contact, between the outer vertical locking surfaces, a portion of the strip and an underside portion of the second edge portion may move in unison when the panel is subjected to load, whereby the risk and / or intensity of noise and / or creaking may be reduced even further.

[0029] In the locked state, the outer vertical locking surfaces may extend inside the locking element. Preferably, they extend completely inside the locking element.

[0030] External vertical locking surfaces may be provided in an upper portion of the locking element and in a lower portion of the locking groove.

[0031] The locking system may comprise a space between the upper portion of the strip and the lower edge portion of the second edge portion.

[0032] The space may extend under the entire lower lip and from under the lower lip to the locking element.

[0033] The core of each building panel may be a wood based core comprising for example HDF board, particle board or plywood material.

[0034] The core of each building panel may be a polymer based core, which for example comprises a thermoplastic material and preferably a filler, or a thermosetting material. For example, the thermoplastic material may comprise PVC and the thermosetting material may comprise melamine formaldehyde resin.

[0035] The core of each building panel may be a mineral based core comprising, for example, magnesium oxide, and optionally magnesium chloride (eg MgCl 2 ) and / or magnesium sulphate (eg MgSO 4 ).

[0036] The building panels may be substantially identical.

[0037] The building panels may be rectangular, thereby comprising a pair of long side edges and short side edges. Preferably, the locking system is provided on the long side edges. However, alternatively or additionally, the locking system may be provided on the short side edges. The panels may be configured to be assembled by angularly tilting on the long side edges and optionally on the short side edges. However, preferably, the short side edges are assembled by vertical folding displacement.

[0038] According to a second aspect of the disclosure, a building panel is provided, comprising a locking system for vertically and horizontally locking a first edge portion of a first building panel to an adjacent second edge portion of a second building panel. In a locked state of the first and second building panels, upper portions of the first and second edge portions together define a vertical plane perpendicular to a horizontal plane, the horizontal plane being parallel to a front face (1e) and / or a back face of the building panels. The locking system comprises a tongue arranged in the first edge portion and a tongue groove arranged in the second edge portion, wherein the tongue and the tongue groove are configured to cooperate for vertical locking. The tongue groove comprises an upper lip and a lower lip, wherein the tongue is configured to cooperate with the upper lip at an upper vertical locking surface and with the lower lip at a lower vertical locking surface. The locking system comprises a locking element arranged in the first edge portion and a downwardly opening locking groove arranged in the second edge portion, wherein the locking element and the downwardly opening locking groove are configured to cooperate for horizontal locking, and wherein the locking element is arranged on a strip extending beyond the upper portion of the first edge portion. The locking system further comprises an outer vertical locking surface which is arranged in horizontal direction outside the tenon in the locked state.

[0039] As described above, by providing contact, e.g. permanent contact, between the outer vertical locking surfaces, a portion of the strip and an underside portion of the second edge portion may move in unison when the panel is under load, thereby reducing the risk and / or intensity of noise and / or squeaking.

[0040] The embodiments and examples of the second aspect are largely similar to the embodiments and examples of the first aspect, and reference may therefore be made thereto.

[0041] The above has basically described various aspects of the present disclosure with reference to several embodiments. However, as those skilled in the art will readily appreciate, within the scope of various aspects of the present disclosure, other embodiments than those disclosed above are equally feasible.

[0042] Generally, all terms used in the claims and the following implementation sections should be interpreted according to their conventional meanings in the technical field, unless otherwise explicitly defined herein. All expressions of "one / an / the [element, device, part, means, step, etc.]" should be interpreted openly as referring to at least one instance of the element, device, part, means, step, etc., unless otherwise explicitly stated. Expressions of one or more "at least one element" etc. can be referred to as "element (including multiple)". BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0043] The present disclosure will be described in more detail below in conjunction with exemplary embodiments and with reference to the attached exemplary drawings, in which:

[0044] Figure 1a An exemplary embodiment of a building panel is shown in a cross-sectional side view.

[0045] Figure 1b An exemplary embodiment of locked building panels and building panels being assembled is shown in a cross-sectional side view.

[0046] Figure 1c Shown around Figure 1b An exemplary embodiment of a locked building panel, with area B in FIG.

[0047] Figure 1d Shown around Figure 1b An exemplary embodiment of a building panel being assembled is shown magnified in area C of FIG.

[0048] Figure 1e An exemplary embodiment of locked building panels is shown in an enlarged cross-sectional side view.

[0049] Figure 2a-2e An exemplary embodiment of a building panel is shown in a cross-sectional side view; Figure 2c and 2e The enlarged cross-sectional side view of the embodiment shows Figure 2b and 2d Type of locked building paneling.

[0050] Figure 3a-3d In perspective ( Figure 3a )and Figure 3a An enlarged perspective view of the areas A, B and C indicated in ( Figure 3b-3d ) shows an exemplary embodiment of a building panel.

[0051] Figure 3e-3f An exemplary embodiment of one building panel and an adjacent building panel is shown in a side view during assembly and in a locked state.

[0052] Figure 3g An exemplary embodiment of a separate flexible tongue is shown in a top view.

[0053] Figure 3h An exemplary embodiment of a building panel being assembled is shown in a cross-sectional side view. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] Next, we will refer to Figure 1a-1e , 2a - 2e and 3a - 3h describe various embodiments of building panels 1 , 1 ′, 1 ″.

[0055] Figure 1a An embodiment of a building panel 1 is shown, comprising a locking system, preferably a mechanical locking system, for vertical and horizontal locking. Preferably, the building panel is a floor panel, but other building panels, such as wall panels or furniture panels are also conceivable.

[0056] The first edge portion 1a of the panel 1 comprises a tongue 2 and a locking element 4 arranged on a strip 6. The strip 6 extends horizontally beyond an upper part 1c of the first edge portion 1a. The tongue 2, the locking element 4 and the strip 6 may be arranged along the longitudinal direction of the first edge portion 1a, i.e. along the longitudinal direction with respect to the first edge portion 1a. Figure 1a In a direction perpendicular to the cross-sectional plane in FIG. 1 (ie “into the drawing sheet”), it preferably extends substantially along the entire first edge portion 1 a.

[0057] The second edge portion 1b of the panel 1 comprises a tongue groove 3 and a locking groove 5 which is open downwards. The tongue groove 3 comprises an upper lip 7 and a lower lip 8 which protrudes horizontally beyond the upper lip. As a result, the assembly of the panels 1, 1' can be simplified, because the lower lip 8 can provide improved guidance of the adjacent second panel 1' relative to the first panel 1, see for example Figure 1b and 1d The tongue groove 3 and the locking groove 5 may extend along the longitudinal direction of the second edge portion 1 b , preferably substantially along the entire second edge portion 1 b .

[0058] The tongue 2 and / or the strip 6 may be formed integrally with the core 20 of the panel 1. Optionally, the panel 1 may include a top layer 20a and / or a balancing layer 20b. The core 20 may be a wood-based core, for example comprising an HDF board, a particle board or a plywood material. Alternatively, the core 20 may be a polymer-based core, for example comprising a thermoplastic material or a thermosetting material. Alternatively, the core 20 may be a mineral-based core, for example comprising magnesium oxide. In a first example, the panel may be a laminated panel or a parquet panel. In a second example, the panel may be a flexible polymer panel, for example a luxury vinyl tile (LVT), or a rigid polymer panel, for example a so-called stone plastic (polymer) composite (SPC) floor panel. LVT tiles and SPC panels may contain PVC, fillers (for example chalk or stone powder) and additives. In a third example, the panel may include an HDF board, at least one powder-based layer (preferably comprising wood fibers) and an optional finishing layer disposed on the powder-based layer. The panel may comprise a balancing layer, such as a powder backing layer, which may optionally further comprise a finishing layer.

[0059] In the locked state of a pair of building panels 1, 1', for example Figure 1c , 2c As shown in FIGS. 2 and 2e, the upper parts 1c, 1d of the first edge portion 1a and the second edge portion 1b together define a vertical plane VP perpendicular to a horizontal plane HP which is parallel to the front side 1e and / or the back side 1f of these panels. Preferably, the locking system is configured to assemble the first edge portion 1a and the second edge portion 1b by tilting the first panel 1 and the second panel 1' relative to each other at an angle A, for example as Figure 1b However, alternatively or additionally, as Figure 3h As shown, the panels 1, 1' can be configured to assemble the first edge portion 1a and the second edge portion 1b by horizontal displacement HD of the first panel 1 and the second panel 1' toward each other, for example by snap-fitting. The strip 6 can be configured to bend downwards B' during assembly. Such a horizontal displacement HD is useful, for example Figure 1a-1e The same is also conceivable for panels 1 , 1 ′ in , 2a - 2e and 3a - 3f.

[0060] The tongue 2 may protrude outwards beyond the vertical plane VP. Furthermore, the lower lip 8 may protrude outwards beyond the vertical plane VP. A portion of the upper lip 7, such as the outer wall 7a, may be arranged along the vertical plane VP.

[0061] The tongue 2 of the building panel 1 and the tongue groove 3 of the adjacent second edge portion 1 b of the second building panel 1 ' are configured to cooperate for vertical locking. More specifically, the tongue 2 is configured to cooperate with the upper lip 7 at the upper vertical locking surfaces 12, 12' and with the lower lip 8 at the lower vertical locking surfaces 13, 13'. In the locked state, the lower lip 8 may be configured to be inserted into a lip groove 9 provided in the first edge portion 1 a, preferably between the strip 6 and the tongue 2.

[0062] The tongue 2 comprises an upper vertical locking surface 12 and a lower vertical locking surface 13. Furthermore, the upper lip 7 comprises an upper vertical locking surface 12' and the lower lip 8 comprises a lower vertical locking surface 13'. The upper vertical locking surface 12' and the lower vertical locking surface 13' may be provided in the upper wall 3a and the lower wall 3b of the tongue groove 3, respectively.

[0063] The horizontal extension HL of the lower vertical locking surface 13 may be greater than the horizontal extension HU of the upper vertical locking surface 12'. Thereby, the risk of the second panel 1' bending downwards and / or twisting when subjected to load may be reduced.

[0064] The upper vertical locking surfaces 12, 12' and the lower vertical locking surfaces 13, 13' may be substantially parallel to the horizontal plane HP. Furthermore, the upper vertical locking surfaces 12, 12' and the lower vertical locking surfaces may be offset in the horizontal direction, such that the upper vertical locking surfaces 12, 12' are arranged closer to the locking element 4 in the horizontal direction than the lower vertical locking surfaces 13, 13'. Thereby, assembling the panels 1, 1' by the angle inclination A may be simplified, for example, because the area under the tongue 2 becomes more accessible. In some embodiments, for example, Figure 1c As shown, there may be at least one inclined surface 28 between the upper vertical locking surface 12, 12' and the lower vertical locking surface 13, 13'. For example, the horizontal distance h2 from the outer end 23 of the upper vertical locking surface 12 to the locking element 4 may be smaller than the horizontal distance h1 from the outer end 17 of the lower vertical locking surface 13 to the locking element 4. Alternatively or additionally, the horizontal distance h2' from the inner end 24 of the upper vertical locking surface 12' to the locking element 4 may be smaller than the horizontal distance h1' from the inner end 21 of the lower vertical locking surface 13' to the locking element 4.

[0065] The vertical locking surface 12 may protrude outwardly beyond the vertical plane VP. Furthermore, the vertical locking surface 13 may protrude outwardly beyond the vertical plane VP and inwardly beyond the vertical plane VP. In the locked state, the vertical locking surfaces 12, 12' and 13, 13' may cooperate with each other, preferably engage with each other, so that the vertical locking surfaces 12' and 13' are substantially located at the positions of the vertical locking surfaces 12 and 13, respectively.

[0066] In the locked state of the panels 1, 1', the outer end 17 of the lower vertical locking surface 13 is arranged closer to the locking element 4 in the horizontal direction than the outer end 16 of the upper vertical locking surface 12'. Alternatively or additionally, in the locked state, the inner end 21 of the lower vertical locking surface 13' can be arranged closer to the locking element 4 in the horizontal direction than the inner end 22 of the upper vertical locking surface 12. In any of these embodiments, the upper vertical locking surface 12, 12' and the lower vertical locking surface 13, 13' can overlap in the horizontal direction, so that the risk and / or intensity of the occurrence of noise and / or creaking can be reduced. In the locked state, the outer end 17 and the inner end 21 and / or the outer end 16 and the inner end 22 can be located at substantially the same position.

[0067] The outer ends 16, 17 may be horizontal outer ends. Thus, the horizontal distance h1 from the outer end 17 to the locking element 4 may be smaller than the horizontal distance h3 from the outer end 16 to the locking element 4. This distance may be the distance to the inner base 4d of the locking element 4. It should be noted that the inner ends 21, 22 may be horizontal inner ends.

[0068] In the locked state, the outer end 16 and / or the outer end 17 may be disposed vertically below the upper lip 7. For example, the upper wall 3a may include a chamfer 3d for positioning the outer end 16 below the upper lip 7. Alternatively or additionally, in the locked state, the inner end 21 and / or the inner end 22 may be disposed vertically below the upper lip 7.

[0069] From the above, it is apparent that the upper and lower vertical locking surfaces 12, 13 and / or 12', 13' may overlap in the horizontal direction along the horizontal overlap portion HO.

[0070] The locking element 4 of the building panel 1 and the downwardly open locking groove 5 of the second building panel 1 ' are configured to cooperate for horizontal locking. The locking element 4 and the locking groove 5 may cooperate, e.g. engage, at horizontal locking surfaces 14, 14' (i.e. surfaces configured for horizontal locking), which may for example be substantially planar and preferably substantially parallel. The horizontal locking surfaces 14 and 14' may be arranged in an inner part 4a of the locking element and an outer part 5b of the locking groove, respectively. For example, the horizontal locking surfaces 14, 14' may be arranged at a locking angle LA of about 40-70°, e.g. 55-65°, relative to the horizontal plane HP.

[0071] like Figure 1a-1e, 2a - 2e and 3a - 3d, any or preferably each of the horizontal locking surfaces 14, 14' may be substantially convex, for example rounded or composed of a plurality of, for example, planar segments, and / or composed of at least one planar segment.

[0072] like Figure 1c and 2e As shown, and in e.g. Figure 2c It is also conceivable that, in the locked state of the panels 1 , 1 ', each of the horizontal locking surfaces 14, 14' may be vertically and / or horizontally spaced apart from a joining portion 10b provided in the first panel 1 at the inner base 4d.

[0073] The horizontal locking surfaces 14, 14' may extend below a horizontal strip plane HPS which is arranged along an upper strip surface 6a arranged inside the locking element 4. The HPS plane may be parallel to the horizontal plane HP. The upper strip surface 6a may be located substantially vertically below the outermost portion 2a of the tongue 2. Preferably, as Figure 1c As shown, the horizontal locking surfaces 14, 14' may extend completely below the horizontal strap plane HPS.

[0074] However, in some embodiments, such as Figure 2a-2e As shown, the horizontal locking surface can be located below and / or above the horizontal strip plane HPS. For example, the locking element 4 and the locking groove 5 can be as described in WO 2013 / 191632A1, page 21, lines 30-36 and Figure 3c-3f The disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0075] The vertical locking surfaces 12, 12' and 13, 13' are horizontally offset relative to the horizontal locking surfaces 14, 14'. In some embodiments, the horizontal locking surfaces 14, 14' may horizontally and vertically lock the first and second edge portions 1a, 1b, preferably with horizontal and / or vertical preload forces.

[0076] The locking system may further comprise horizontal locking surfaces 15, 15' arranged at the upper parts 1c, 1d, which are preferably arranged substantially vertically.The horizontal locking surfaces 14, 14' and 15, 15' may resist, e.g. prevent, separation of the panels 1, 1' and displacement of the panels 1, 1' towards each other, respectively.

[0077] like Figure 1a-1e, 2a-2e, 3a-3d and 3h, the first edge portion 1a and the second edge portion 1b may include a recess 10 and a protrusion 11, respectively. The recess 10 may be arranged between the locking element 4 and the innermost portion 9a of the lip groove 9 in the horizontal direction, preferably between the locking groove 4 and the outermost portion 2a of the tongue 2. The protrusion 11 may be arranged between the locking groove 5 and the outermost portion 8a of the lower lip 8 in the horizontal direction, preferably between the locking groove 5 and the innermost portion 3c of the tongue groove 3.

[0078] The projection 11 may cooperate with the recess 10 for horizontal locking. In fact, horizontal locking surfaces 14, 14' may be provided on the projection and in the recess. The recess 10 and / or the projection 11 may comprise a planar portion 10a, 11a which preferably extends substantially parallel to the horizontal plane HP.

[0079] In some embodiments, for example, Figure 2a-2e As shown in FIG. 1 , the planar portion 11a may form the entire lower side 11b of the protrusion 11. In addition, for example, Figure 2d-2e As shown in FIG. 1 , the planar portion 10a may form the entire upper side 10c of the recess 10. The upper side 10c may be disposed in the upper strip surface 6a. In some embodiments, for example, Figure 2a-2c As shown in FIG. 1 , the upper side 10 c may include two or more planar portions 10 a .

[0080] like Figure 1a-1e , 2a-2e, 3a-3d and 3h, the locking element 4 and / or the protrusion 11 may include bevels 18, 18'. The bevels 18, 18' may provide guide surfaces. This may facilitate simplified assembly of the panels. The bevels 18 and / or 18' may be substantially planar, preferably with an inclination of about 50-60°, for example 35-45°, relative to the horizontal plane HP. In the locked state, the bevels 18 and 18' may be substantially parallel. Furthermore, in the locked state, the horizontal locking surfaces 14, 14' may be arranged between the bevels 18, 18', see e.g. Figure 1c .

[0081] For example Figure 1a-1d As shown in Figures 3 and 3h, the horizontal extension TE of the tongue 2 from the vertical plane VP can be greater than the horizontal extension LE of the lower lip 8 from the vertical plane VP and / or from the upper lip 7. Thereby, for example, the extension length of the lower vertical locking surface 13, 13' can be increased even when the horizontal extension length LE remains relatively small. In addition, the amount of sheet material required for manufacturing the panels 1, 1' can be reduced. Furthermore, the risk of tilting of the panels 1, 1' can be reduced. Either or preferably each of the extension lengths TE and LE can be a maximum extension length.

[0082] For example Figure 2a-2e As shown in , in some embodiments, the horizontal extension length LE of the lower lip 8 from the vertical plane VP and / or from the upper lip 7 may be greater than the horizontal extension length TE of the tongue 2 from the vertical plane VP. Thereby, the assembly of the panels 1, 1' may be further simplified, for example because the larger extension length LE of the lower lip 8 may provide improved guidance for the lower lip 8 to enter the lip groove 9.

[0083] Here generally, in the locked state of the panels 1, 1', the locking system may comprise a space S1, S2 between the upper portion 6b of the strip 6 and the lower edge portion EP of the second edge portion 1b. Such a space may reduce or even eliminate noise and / or creaking, at least in some embodiments, for example because parts of the locking system that may cause such undesirable sounds may be separated from each other. At the same time, a strong vertical locking function may be provided by means of the vertical locking surfaces 12, 12', 13, 13'.

[0084] In the locked state of the panels 1, 1', a space S1 may be provided between the upper portion 6b and a lower edge portion EP arranged substantially below the lower lip 8 and / or below the tongue 2; see e.g. Figure 1c , 1e Alternatively or additionally, in the locked state of the panels 1, 1', a space S2 may be provided between the recess 10 and the protrusion 11. In some embodiments, as Figure 1c and 2e As shown in , the spaces S1, S2 may extend below the entire lower lip 8 and may extend from below the lower lip 8, such as the outermost portion 8a, to the horizontal locking surfaces 14, 14' and / or the locking element 4. Figure 1c As shown, the space S1, e.g. the maximum distance between the upper part 6b and the lower edge part EP, may be smaller than the space S2, e.g. the maximum distance between the recess 10 and the protrusion 11. By having a small space S1, e.g. less than 0.1 mm or even less than 0.05 mm, the manufacturing of the locking system may be simplified; e.g. increased dimensional tolerances between the upper part 6b and the lower edge part EP may be accepted. Furthermore, the locking system may be able to withstand greater loads on the second panel 1 ', e.g. because the locking system may be supported when the tongue 2 is bent or twisted.

[0085] It should be emphasized that in some embodiments there is no space (S1=0) between the upper part 6b and the lower edge part EP, which can for example be joined to each other. In such an embodiment, the vertical load can be distributed over a larger part of the locking system, thus increasing the vertical locking strength of the locking system. Such an embodiment may be preferred when, for example, the panels 1, 1' comprise an elastic material, preferably a thermoplastic material such as PVC and a filler, or when the panels 1, 1' comprise a low-density wood-based core such as a low-density HDF board. For example, the density of the HDF board may be lower than 1000 kg / m 3 , for example 800-1000kg / m 3 .

[0086] Preferably, a portion of the locking element 4, such as the outer portion 4b and / or the upper portion 4c, is separated from the locking groove 5, such as its lower portion 5c and / or the inner portion 5a, by a space S3 and / or S4, see e.g. Figure 1c , 1e , 2c and 2e. The entire upper portion 4c may be spaced apart from the lower portion 5c. Preferably, the space S4, such as the maximum distance between the upper portion 4c and the lower portion 5c, is greater than the space S2, such as the maximum distance between the recess 10 and the protrusion 11.

[0087] However, in some embodiments, for example Figure 2a-2e As shown in , the locking system may further comprise outer vertical locking surfaces 25, 25' which in the locked state are arranged horizontally outside the tongue 2. Thereby, the locking system may comprise three pairs of vertical locking surfaces 12, 12', 13, 13', 25, 25'. The outer vertical locking surfaces 25, 25' may be arranged in the first edge part 1a and the second edge part 1b, respectively, preferably vertically below the tongue 2.

[0088] like Figure 2a-2cAs shown, in the locked state, the outer vertical locking surfaces 25, 25' can preferably extend completely inside the locking element 4. The surface 25 can be arranged in the strip 6, preferably in the upper strip surface 6a, and the surface 25' can be arranged in the lower side 11b. The outer vertical locking surfaces 25, 25' can be engaged with each other along a width portion W', which is along the transverse direction T of the first edge portion 1a and thus the strip 6. For example, the width portion W' can be greater than 0.10 times the strip width W of the strip 6, for example greater than 0.30 times thereof. With the help of the width portion W', the risk of the second panel 1' bending downwards and / or twisting when subjected to load can be reduced. The strip width W can be the extension length from the vertical plane VP to the outermost part 6c of the strip, for example the outer part 4b. The space S1 can be arranged on the horizontal inside of the outer vertical locking surfaces 25, 25'.

[0089] like Figure 2d-2e As shown, in some embodiments, outer vertical locking surfaces 25, 25' may be provided in the upper portion 4c of the locking element 4 and the lower portion 5c of the locking groove 5. The upper portion 4c and / or the lower portion 5c may be planar, preferably substantially parallel to the horizontal plane HP.

[0090] In some embodiments, for example, Figure 2a-2e As shown, for example, the thickness TS of a portion of the strip 6 at the location of the vertical locking surface 25 can be at least 0.3 times, preferably at least 0.4 times, the thickness T1 of the panel 1. In such an embodiment, the risk of bending and / or twisting of the strip can be reduced, which in turn can reduce the risk and / or intensity of noise and / or creaking. Moreover, the higher the locking system is set, the easier it becomes to assemble the panels 1, 1'. Figure 2d-2e In an embodiment of the invention, the thickness TS at the location of the vertical locking surface 25 can even be greater than 0.5 times the thickness T1 , for example.

[0091] In some embodiments, for example, Figure 2a-2e As shown, the thickness T2 of the tongue 2 may be less than 0.2 times, preferably less than 0.15 times, the thickness T1. Such a thin tongue may simplify the assembly of the panels 1, 1'.

[0092] like Figure 1dAs shown, the locking system may comprise guide surfaces 19a, 19b, 19a', 19b', which are optionally arranged as bevels and are optionally configured to cooperate, e.g. engage, with corresponding panel surfaces during panel assembly, preferably during the angle tilting A. For example, the guide surfaces may be arranged on the tongue 2 and the lower lip 8 and / or may be arranged as bevels as described above with respect to the bevels 18, 18'. The guide surfaces may be inclined relative to the vertical plane VP and / or the horizontal plane HP and may be located in an upper part and / or a lower part of the tongue 2 and the lower lip 8. It should be noted that the tongue groove 3 and / or the lip groove 9 may comprise surfaces with a shape corresponding to the shape of the guide surfaces 19a, 19b, 19a', 19b'.

[0093] like Figure 3a-3d As shown, the first edge portion 1a and the second edge portion 1b are preferably arranged on the long side edges of the panels 1, 1', 1", and these panels may also include a third edge portion 1a' and a fourth edge portion 1b', which are preferably short side edges. These panels can be constructed to be assembled by an angular inclination A and / or a horizontal displacement HD on the long side edges and a vertical folding displacement FD on the short side edges. Figure 3e-3g An embodiment of a third edge portion 1a' and a fourth edge portion 1b' of a panel 1 and an adjacent panel 1'', respectively, is schematically shown, which can be used with e.g. Figure 1a-1e , any combination of embodiments in 2a-2e, 3a-3d and 3h.

[0094] The third edge part 1a' may comprise a preferably separate and flexible tongue 2' and a locking element 4' arranged on a strip 6'. The separate and flexible tongue 2' may be displaceably arranged in a slot 9'. The strip 6' extends horizontally beyond an upper part 1c' of the third edge part 1a'. The fourth edge part 1b' may comprise a tongue groove 3' and a downwardly opening locking groove 5'.

[0095] For example, Figure 3g As shown in the non-limiting example in FIG. 1 , the tongue 2' may include a flexible member 26 which may be bent between an inner position 26a and an outer position 26b. Thereby, the tongue may be displaced between the inner position and the outer position. An inward pressure applied to the tongue 2' may displace it inwardly towards the inner position, and the flexible member 26 may be configured to displace it outwardly towards the outer position, for example by a biasing force of the flexible member 26. Preferably, the tongue 2' is formed by injection molding. Optionally, the tongue 2' includes at least one friction element 27 for preventing it from being displaced out of the slot 9'.

[0096] The tongue 2' and the tongue groove 3' are configured to cooperate for vertical locking, while the locking element 4' and the locking groove 5' are configured to cooperate for horizontal locking. It will be appreciated that Figure 3a-3dA separate and flexible tongue 2' is not shown in the drawings, but the panel 1 shown therein is constructed with such a tongue 2' arranged in the slot 9'.

[0097] The present disclosure is basically described above with reference to several embodiments. However, as will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art, other embodiments than those disclosed above are equally possible within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, a person of ordinary skill will appreciate that within the scope of the present disclosure, the embodiments and examples of the panel 1 disclosed herein are equally conceivable for other panels 1', 1", etc., and vice versa. In addition, in some exemplary embodiments, Figure 1a-1d , 2a-2e and 3a-3h represent figures drawn to scale.

[0098] Example

[0099] Item 1. A building panel comprising a locking system for vertically and horizontally locking a first edge portion (1a) of a first building panel (1) to an adjacent second edge portion (1b) of a second building panel (1'), wherein in the locked state of the first and second building panels (1, 1'), upper parts (1c, 1d) of the first and second edge portions jointly define a vertical plane (VP) perpendicular to a horizontal plane (HP), the horizontal plane (HP) being parallel to a front side (1e) and / or a back side (1f) of the building panels (1, 1'),

[0100] wherein the locking system comprises a tenon (2) arranged in the first edge portion (1a) and a tenon groove (3) arranged in the second edge portion (1b), the tenon (2) and the tenon groove (3) being configured to cooperate for vertical locking,

[0101] The tenon groove (3) comprises an upper lip (7) and a lower lip (8), wherein the tenon (2) is configured to cooperate with the upper lip (7) at an upper vertical locking surface (12, 12') and with the lower lip (8) at a lower vertical locking surface (13, 13'),

[0102] wherein the locking system comprises a locking element (4) arranged in the first edge portion (1a) and a downwardly open locking groove (5) arranged in the second edge portion (1b), the locking element (4) and the downwardly open locking groove (5) being configured to cooperate for horizontal locking, the locking element (4) being arranged on a strip (6) extending beyond an upper portion (1c) of the first edge portion (1a), and

[0103] The locking system further comprises an outer vertical locking surface (25, 25') arranged on the horizontal outer side of the tenon (2) in the locked state.

[0104] Item 2. The building panels according to Item 1, wherein in the locked state the outer vertical locking surface (25, 25') extends inside the locking element (4).

[0105] Item 3. The building panels according to item 1 or 2, wherein the outer vertical locking surface (25, 25') is provided in an upper part (4c) of the locking element (4) and in a lower part (5c) of the locking groove (5).

[0106] Item 4. A building panel according to any of the preceding items, wherein the outer vertical locking surfaces (25, 25') engage with each other along a width portion (W') along the transverse direction (T) of the first edge portion (1a), the width portion (W') preferably being greater than 0.10 times, for example greater than 0.30 times, the strip width (W) of the strip (6).

[0107] Item 5. The building panels according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the lower lip (8) protrudes beyond the upper lip (7) in the horizontal direction.

[0108] Item 6. A building panel according to any of the preceding items, wherein the horizontal extension length (HL) of the lower vertical locking surface (13, 13') of the tongue (2) and / or the lower lip (8) is greater than the horizontal extension length (HU) of the upper vertical locking surface (12', 12) of the upper lip (7) and / or the tongue (2).

[0109] Item 7. The building panels according to any of the preceding items, wherein the locking element (4) and the locking groove (5) cooperate at a horizontal locking surface (14, 14').

[0110] Item 8. The building panels according to Item 7, wherein each of the horizontal locking surfaces (14, 14') is substantially planar.

[0111] Item 9. A building panel according to item 7 or 8, wherein, in the locked state of the building panel (1, 1'), each of the horizontal locking surfaces (14, 14') is vertically and / or horizontally spaced apart from a connecting portion (10b) in the first building panel (1) arranged at an inner base (4d) of the locking element (4).

[0112] Item 10. A building panel according to any of the preceding items 7-9, wherein the horizontal locking surface (14, 14') extends below, for example completely below, a horizontal strip plane (HPS) arranged along an upper strip surface (6a) provided inside the locking element (4).

[0113] Item 11. The building panel according to any of the preceding items, wherein the locking element (4) and / or the protrusion (11) of the second edge portion (1b) comprises a bevel (18, 18'), the protrusion (11) being configured to be arranged in a recess (10) of the first edge portion (1a).

[0114] Item 12. A building panel according to any of the preceding items, wherein the locking system is configured to assemble the first edge portion (1a) and the second edge portion (1b) by an angular inclination (A) of the first building panel (1) and the second building panel (1') relative to each other and / or by a horizontal displacement (HD) of the first panel (1) and the second panel (1') towards each other.

[0115] Item 13. The building panels according to any of the preceding items, wherein the tongue (2) and / or the strip (6) are formed integrally with a core (20) of the building panel (1, 1').

[0116] Item 14. A building panel according to any of the preceding items, wherein the horizontal extension length (TE) of the tongue (2) from the vertical surface (VP) is greater than the horizontal extension length (LE) of the lower lip (8) from the vertical surface (VP) and / or the upper lip (7), or wherein the horizontal extension length (LE) of the lower lip (8) from the vertical surface (VP) and / or the upper lip (7) is greater than the horizontal extension length (TE) of the tongue (2) from the vertical surface (VP).

[0117] Item 15. The building panels according to any of the preceding items, wherein the upper vertical locking surface (12, 12') and the lower vertical locking surface (13, 13') are substantially parallel to the horizontal plane (HP).

[0118] Item 16. A building panel according to any of the preceding items, wherein the upper vertical locking surface (12, 12') and the lower vertical locking surface (13, 13') are offset in the horizontal direction so that the upper vertical locking surface (12, 12') is arranged closer to the locking element (4) in the horizontal direction than the lower vertical locking surface (13, 13').

[0119] Item 17. The building panels according to any of the preceding items, wherein the locking system comprises a space (S1, S2) between an upper portion (6b) of the strip (6) and a lower edge portion (EP) of the second edge portion (1b).

[0120] Item 18. The building panels according to Item 17, wherein the space (S1, S2) extends under the entire lower lip (8) and from under the lower lip (8) to the locking element (4).

[0121] Item 19. Building panels according to any of the preceding items, wherein the core (20) of each of the building panels is a wood-based core, for example comprising HDF board, particle board or plywood material, a polymer-based core, for example comprising thermoplastic material or thermosetting material, or a mineral-based core.

[0122] Item 20. A building panel according to any of the preceding items, wherein the thickness (TS) of a portion of the strip (6), for example at the location of the vertical locking surface (25), is at least 0.3 times, preferably at least 0.4 times, the thickness (T1) of the first building panel (1).

[0123] Item 21. The building panel according to any of the preceding items, wherein the thickness (T2) of the tongue (2) is less than 0.2 times, preferably less than 0.15 times, the thickness (T1 ) of the first building panel (1 ).

Claims

1. A building panel comprising a locking system for vertically and horizontally locking a first edge portion (1a) of a first building panel (1) to an adjacent second edge portion (1b) of a second building panel (1'), wherein in the locked state of the first and second building panels (1, 1'), upper parts (1c, 1d) of the first and second edge portions together define a vertical plane (VP) perpendicular to a horizontal plane (HP) parallel to a front side (1e) and / or a back side (1f) of the building panels (1, 1'), in, The locking system comprises a tongue (2) provided in the first edge portion (1a) and a tongue groove (3) provided in the second edge portion (1b), the tongue (2) and the tongue groove (3) being configured to cooperate for vertical locking, The tenon groove (3) comprises an upper lip (7) and a lower lip (8) protruding in horizontal direction beyond the upper lip (7), wherein the tenon (2) is configured to cooperate with the upper lip (7) at an upper vertical locking surface (12, 12') and with the lower lip (8) at a lower vertical locking surface (13, 13'), wherein the locking system comprises a locking element (4) arranged in the first edge portion (1a) and a downwardly open locking groove (5) arranged in the second edge portion (1b), the locking element (4) and the downwardly open locking groove (5) being configured to cooperate for horizontal locking, the locking element (4) being arranged on a strip (6) extending beyond an upper portion (1c) of the first edge portion (1a), and Therein, in the locked state of the first and second building panels (1, 1'): The outer end (17) of the lower vertical locking surface (13) of the tongue (2) is arranged horizontally closer to the locking element (4) than the outer end (16) of the upper vertical locking surface (12') of the upper lip (7), and / or The inner end (21) of the lower vertical locking surface (13') of the lower lip (8) is arranged closer to the locking element (4) in the horizontal direction than the inner end (22) of the upper vertical locking surface (12) of the tongue (2), wherein the locking system comprises a space (S1, S2) between an upper portion (6b) of the strip (6) and a lower edge portion (EP) of the second edge portion (1b), and The space (S1, S2) extends under the entire lower lip (8) and extends from under the lower lip (8) to the locking element (4).

2. The building panel according to claim 1, wherein The horizontal extension (HL) of the lower vertical locking surface (13, 13') of the tongue (2) and / or the lower lip (8) is greater than the horizontal extension (HU) of the upper vertical locking surface (12', 12) of the upper lip (7) and / or the tongue (2).

3. The building panel according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The locking element (4) and the locking groove (5) cooperate at a horizontal locking surface (14, 14').

4. The building panel according to claim 3, wherein Each of said horizontal locking surfaces (14, 14') is substantially planar.

5. The building panel according to claim 3 or 4, wherein In the locked state of the building panels (1, 1'), each said horizontal locking surface (14, 14') is vertically and / or horizontally spaced from a joining portion (10b) in the first building panel (1) provided at an inner base (4d) of the locking element (4).

6. The building panel as claimed in any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein The horizontal locking surface (14, 14') extends completely below a horizontal strip plane (HPS) arranged along an upper strip surface (6a) provided inside the locking element (4).

7. The building panel as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein The locking element (4) and / or the projection (11) of the second edge portion (1b) comprises a bevel (18, 18'), the projection (11) being configured to be arranged in the recess (10) of the first edge portion (1a).

8. The building panel as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein The locking system is configured to assemble the first edge portion (1a) and the second edge portion (1b) by an angular inclination (A) of the first building panel (1) and the second building panel (1') relative to each other and / or by a horizontal displacement (HD) of the first panel (1) and the second panel (1') towards each other.

9. The building panel as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein The tongue (2) and / or the strip (6) are formed integrally with a core (20) of a building panel (1, 1').

10. The building panel as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein The horizontal extension length (TE) of the tenon (2) from the vertical plane (VP) is greater than the horizontal extension length (LE) of the lower lip (8) from the vertical plane (VP) and / or the upper lip (7).

11. The building panel as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein The upper vertical locking surface (12, 12') and the lower vertical locking surface (13, 13') are substantially parallel to the horizontal plane (HP).

12. The building panel as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein The upper vertical locking surface (12, 12') and the lower vertical locking surface (13, 13') are offset in the horizontal direction so that the upper vertical locking surface (12, 12') is arranged closer to the locking element (4) in the horizontal direction than the lower vertical locking surface (13, 13').

13. The building panel as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein The locking system further comprises an outer vertical locking surface (25, 25') arranged horizontally outside the tongue (2) in the locked state.

14. The building panel according to claim 13, wherein In the locked state, the outer vertical locking surface (25, 25') extends inside the locking element (4).

15. The building panels as claimed in claim 13 or 14, wherein The outer vertical locking surface (25, 25') is provided in an upper portion (4c) of the locking element (4) and in a lower portion (5c) of the locking groove (5).

16. The building panels as claimed in any one of the preceding claims 13-15, wherein The outer vertical locking surfaces (25, 25') engage each other along a width portion (W') which is along the transverse direction (T) of the first edge portion (1a) and is preferably greater than 0.10 times, for example greater than 0.30 times, the strip width (W) of the strip (6).

17. The building panels as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein The core (20) of each building panel is a wood based core comprising HDF board, particle board or plywood material, a polymer based core comprising thermoplastic material or thermosetting material or a mineral based core.

18. The building panel as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein A portion of the strip (6) has a thickness (TS) of at least 0.3 times the thickness (T1 ) of the first building panel (1 ).

19. The building panel as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein The thickness (T2) of the tongue (2) is less than 0.2 times the thickness (T1) of the first building panel (1).

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