Surface cover and fastener thereof

Abstract

The invention relates to a surface cover and a fastener thereof. The surface cover comprises a plurality of panels, a plurality of elongate profiles on which the panels are arranged, and a plurality of fastening elements, said profiles facing the underside of the panels such that intersection regions are created therebetween, at which the fastening elements are fitted. Wherein the fastening element has an elastic body connected to the head by a neck smaller in size than the head, the elasticity of the elastic body allowing it to pass through a slot corresponding to the cavity of the profile and also allowing it to slide within the cavity of the profile.

Description

[0001] This invention relates to a surface covering for interior and exterior trim, comprising a plurality of panels and an elongated profile. At the junction between the panels and the profile, a plurality of fasteners are simultaneously accommodated in cavities arranged in the panels and the profile. This type of covering is particularly suitable for vertical or horizontal surfaces and is suitable for installation in a herringbone or hungarian point pattern or any other mounting pattern defining the parallel panel pattern.

[0002] The aforementioned surface coverings are known, for example, those disclosed in utility model ES 1 225 774U from the same applicant and in documents corresponding to patents ES 2 504 665 B1 and WO 2015 / 159 136.

[0003] ES 2 504 665 B1 discloses a cover comprising a structure formed of multiple panels, each panel having at least one guide on its bottom surface. The guide is formed by a groove and an elongated profile, wherein a staple is located in the intersection region between the guide and the panel, and is received in cavities of two guides in the panel and profile. The staple has a thickened head and an elastic body (including at least two legs). The thickened head is for insertion into one of the cavities, and the elasticity of the elastic body allows the staple to be in a first compressed position, in which the staple can pass laterally through the groove corresponding to the guide, and in an expanded position, received in a cavity corresponding to the guide. The head of the staple is a flat region with protrusions in its free region to contact the wall opposite the groove of the cavity into which the head of the staple is inserted. For installation, the staple must be elastically deformed by applying a vertical force.

[0004] ES 1 225 774 U discloses a cover comprising a structure formed of multiple panels, which are secured to a profile by studs simultaneously positioned in cavities within both the panels and the profile. The studs have a head for insertion into one of the cavities in the panel and a resilient body connected to the head for inserting the stud into the cavity in the profile. The head and the resilient body rotate relative to each other at an angle greater than 0° and less than 90°, thereby allowing the panels to be mounted in a herringbone configuration. The head has interlocking protrusions that are resilient and are diagonally arranged at opposite ends of the stud's neck.

[0005] The problem associated with the covers disclosed in ES 1 225 774 U and ES 2 504 665 B1 is that the nails need to be aligned in the cavity of the panel before they can be inserted into the cavity of the profile. If the nails are not properly aligned, some of them may break or fail to attach to the profile. To reduce this type of failure, an auxiliary device is needed to ensure proper alignment of the nails on the panel and reduce the likelihood of breakage. The use of such an auxiliary device also increases the time required to install the cover.

[0006] WO 2015 / 159 136 discloses a cover comprising panels, fasteners, and elongated profiles. Each profile has a guide portion designed to mate with a fastener. The profile guide portion includes a groove providing passage to a cavity having a larger cross-section than the groove. Each panel has a groove on its side into which a fastener head is inserted to attach the profile to the panel. The dimensions of the base of the fastener allow rotation between a first position and a second position when inserted into the guide groove. The fastener has a first form (having a first cross-section) and a second form (having a second cross-section). In the second position, the second form dimensionally interferes with the guide portion (locking the fastener in place), while in the first position, the first form allows free movement along the profile. The dimensions of the fastener head determine the spacing between adjacent panels, thereby defining the spacing between the panels.

[0007] The disadvantage of this cover is that once assembled on the surface, it is impossible to remove it without damaging the fasteners or the panel if a specific panel needs to be replaced. This makes repairs difficult in specific areas of the cover and hinders the reuse of the part.

[0008] One object of the present invention is to disclose a removable cover that does not require pre-alignment of fastening elements on the panel and allows for quick replacement of the cover's panel in the event of repair or other intervention without damaging any of its components.

[0009] In this document, the bottom surface of the profile is understood as the side of the profile that contacts the surface on which the cover is mounted. The top surface of the profile is understood as the side of the profile having a longitudinal groove for inserting a fastening element.

[0010] In this article, the bottom surface of the panel is understood as the side of the panel facing the top surface of the profile. The top surface of the panel is understood as the side of the panel visible after the mounting cover is installed.

[0011] To address the aforementioned problems, this invention discloses a surface covering comprising a structure formed by a plurality of panels, an elongated profile, and fastening elements. The panels are arranged on the profile, with the profile facing the bottom surface of the panels, creating an intersection area, and the fastening elements are located in the intersection area between the profile and the panels, wherein: - The panel has a guide portion on its side surface formed by a groove positioned at an intermediate height, the guide portion extending longitudinally along the side surface of the panel and providing passage to the cavity. - The profile has a guide portion including a guide groove that provides passage to a guide cavity having a larger cross-section than the guide groove. - The fastening element has a head for insertion into a side cavity of the panel, and the head is simultaneously accommodated in both the side cavity of the panel and the profile cavity.

[0012] The fastening element has an elastic body that is connected to the head via a neck that is smaller than the head. The elasticity of the elastic body allows it to pass through a groove corresponding to a cavity in the profile and also allows the elastic body to slide within the cavity of the profile.

[0013] In connection with the surface cover, a method for installing and removing the surface cover is also disclosed. The installation method includes: Multiple profiles are distributed in a parallel and coplanar manner on a solid surface. Insert one side of the fastening element head into the side guide of the first panel, so that the head is mounted onto the panel. Position the elastic body of the fastening element to face the groove of the profile. A vertical compressive force is applied to the side of the top surface of the panel where the fastening element is installed, so as to insert the elastic body into the cavity in the groove of the profile. - Move the second panel horizontally until the free side of the head of the fastening element is inserted into the side guide of the second panel, so that the free side and the side guide are installed together.

[0014] The method for removing the cover is performed using an extraction device comprising a handle for applying force, and two blades rigidly connected to the handle and rigidly connected to each other. The two blades also have a specific geometry for insertion into side guides of a panel already installed in its final position. The method includes: - Insert the first blade of the extraction device into the side of the panel to create a fulcrum. - Insert the second blade of the extraction device into the opposite side of the panel to create a resistance point. The handle of the extraction device determines the point of force application between the fulcrum and the resistance point, thereby defining the resistance arm (the distance between the resistance point and the fulcrum) and the effort arm (the distance between the point of force application and the fulcrum) of the lever. - Apply leverage to the handle to remove one side of the panel.

[0015] Preferably, after force is applied, the fastening element on the side of the panel located between the point of force application and the point of resistance is released from the profile guide, while the fastening element on the opposite side of the panel remains installed in the profile guide.

[0016] Advantageously, the present invention provides a removable surface cover in which the fastening elements do not need to be pre-aligned on the panel during installation. This reduces the time required to install the cover and eliminates the possibility of the fastening elements breaking when pressed into the profile cavity.

[0017] Unlike existing technologies, this invention allows for the use of at least two different methods to install the fastening element. The first method involves directly inserting one side of the head of the fastening element into a side guide portion of the panel, and then inserting the resilient body into a cavity in the profile groove. The second method involves inserting the resilient element into the cavity of the profile groove and sliding the fastening element along the profile guide portion until the fastening element is installed in the side guide portion of the panel.

[0018] Preferably, the elastic body of the fastening element has an arm and a shoulder. When the elastic body is placed in its working position inside the profile cavity, the arm is compressed, and at the same time, the arm applies pressure on the bottom surface of the profile cavity, and the shoulder applies pressure on the top surface of the profile cavity.

[0019] More preferably, the arm is connected at one end to the neck of the fastening element, while leaving the other end free.

[0020] Preferably, the profile cavity has a recess on its lower surface to distribute the elastic energy of the elastic body on the surface of the profile, and the free end of the arm contacts the recess.

[0021] More preferably, the recess has a concave cross-section with an arc.

[0022] Even more preferably, the recess has a longitudinal groove to reduce the contact surface between the arm and the recess surface. This reduction in contact surface facilitates the sliding of the fastening element along the profile cavity.

[0023] Preferably, the head of the fastening element has a plurality of protrusions configured to secure the head of the fastening element to a side guide portion of the panel.

[0024] More preferably, the protrusion has a through groove to make it flexible. The groove separates the protrusion from the rest of the head, thereby allowing the protrusion to flex. This elasticity allows for resilient deformation, which facilitates insertion and mounting of the head within the side guide of the panel.

[0025] Preferably, the head of the fastening element has an expansion channel. This expansion channel extends longitudinally through the central region of the head and divides the head into two parts.

[0026] Preferably, the neck of the head connecting the elastic body and the fastening element has longitudinally extending grooves through the central regions on both sides of the neck to make the fastening element more flexible. The use of these grooves makes the fastening element more flexible and allows the expansion channel to apply force without causing breakage.

[0027] Preferably, the head of the fastening element has at least one mounting hole with a circular cross-section, the center of which is located on a central longitudinal axis extending through the head. The mounting hole allows the fastening element, such as a screw, to be inserted. This is particularly useful at the beginning and end of installing the cover to prevent unwanted lateral slippage of the panel.

[0028] Preferably, the size of the head of the fastening element determines the spacing between adjacent panels, thereby defining the interval between the panels. This feature eliminates the need for additional separating elements to define the drain joints between panels, which in turn reduces the number of elements required for installing the cover and the time required for installation.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment, the head has a generally parallelepiped shape. This feature is particularly suitable for mounting panels in a standard configuration (all panels are mounted parallel to each other).

[0030] In another preferred embodiment, the head has a generally triangular shape, and the angle bisector of one angle of this triangle coincides with the central axis of the profile groove, and said angle is greater than 0° and less than 180°. Preferably, said angle is 90°. The use of right angles is particularly suitable for mounting panels in a herringbone configuration.

[0031] In another preferred embodiment, the head and the resilient body rotate relative to each other at an angle greater than 0° and less than 180°. Preferably, the head and the resilient body rotate relative to each other at an angle of 45°, thereby allowing the intersection between the panel and the profile to also form a 45° angle. The use of a 45° angle is particularly suitable for panels installed in a herringbone pattern.

[0032] Preferably, an insert is simultaneously installed in the profile and the middle region of the panel, wherein the insert is inserted into the lower surface of the panel and the base of the insert is attached to the profile. The purpose of this insert is to prevent unwanted movement of the panel, whether due to external forces or forces caused by temperature and / or humidity gradients.

[0033] The described cover is suitable for installation on horizontal and vertical surfaces (exterior and interior finishes), whether in a herringbone pattern, a fishbone pattern, or any other mounting pattern that defines a parallel panel pattern therein.

[0034] For better understanding, the accompanying drawings of embodiments of the present invention are attached herein as non-limiting illustrative examples.

[0035] Figure 1 A perspective view of the cover according to the present invention is shown; Figure 2 A perspective view of the fastening element according to the present invention is shown; Figure 3 A detailed perspective view of a fastening element according to the invention, which is simultaneously mounted to a longitudinal profile and a panel, is shown.

[0036] Figures 4A to 4C It shows the relationship with Figure 2 The installation of fastening elements that are the same as those in the previous section but have smaller head sizes.

[0037] Figures 5A to 5C Three mounting configurations of the cover according to the invention are shown, which are standard configurations ( Figure 5A ), fishbone form ( Figure 5B ) and the human-shaped form ( Figure 5C ).

[0038] Figures 6A to 6C Three mounting configurations of the cover according to the invention are shown, which are standard configurations ( Figure 6A ), fishbone form ( Figure 6B ) and the human-shaped form ( Figure 6C ).

[0039] Figure 7A and Figure 7B A detailed perspective view is shown of a fastening element suitable for mounting the cover in a herringbone configuration.

[0040] Figure 8A and Figure 8B A detailed perspective view is shown of a fastening element suitable for mounting the cover in a herringbone configuration.

[0041] Figure 9A and Figure 9B A detailed perspective view is shown of a fastening element suitable for mounting the cover in a herringbone configuration.

[0042] Figure 10A and Figure 10B A detailed perspective view is shown of a fastening element suitable for mounting the cover in a herringbone configuration.

[0043] Figure 11A and Figure 11B A detailed perspective view shows the removal of the cover panel using an extraction device.

[0044] Figure 1 A schematic example is shown of the position of the fastening element 2 in the longitudinal profile 1 after the head 21 of the fastening element 2 has been inserted into the side groove 33 of the panel 3.

[0045] Panel 3 is arranged on the profile, wherein profile 1 faces the bottom surface of panel 3 and forms an intersection area. Fastening element 2 is located in the intersection area between profile 1 and panel 3.

[0046] The panel 3 has a guide portion on its side formed by a side groove 33 located at the middle height of the panel 3, which extends longitudinally along the side of the panel and provides a passage to the side cavity 34.

[0047] These profiles have a guide portion 11, which includes a guide groove that provides access to a guide cavity 12, which has a larger longitudinal cross-section than the guide groove 11.

[0048] The fastening element 2 has an elastic body 23 connected to the head 21 via a neck 22 smaller than the head 21. The elasticity of the elastic body 23 allows it to pass through a groove corresponding to the guide cavity 12 of the profile 1, and also allows the elastic body 23 to slide within the guide cavity 12 of the profile 1.

[0049] The fastening element 2 comprises three parts defined by their functions. First, there is a head 21 of the fastening element, one function of which is to mount the fastening element 2 to at least one panel 3. The head 21 of the fastening element 2 is designed such that, depending on the size of the head, the fastening element 2 allows for the simultaneous mounting of up to four adjacent panels 3, reducing the number of fastening elements 2 required to complete the cover compared to the prior art.

[0050] Secondly, there is a neck 22, which is connected to the bottom surface of the head 21, and the bottom surface of the neck 22 is in contact with the top surface of the longitudinal profile 1.

[0051] Finally, there is an elastic body 23, which is connected to the bottom surface of the neck 22 and is inserted into the guide cavity 12 of the profile 1 by pressure, thereby installing the fastening element 2 onto the profile 1.

[0052] The panel 3 is mounted on the profile 1 without a fixed mounting point, thus allowing the panel 3 and the fastening element 2 to move in the direction defined by the guide cavity 12. In the event that the material (e.g., wood) absorbs moisture, this movement may be caused by the expansion or contraction of the panel due to heat or cold, or due to temperature differences between different parts of the cover, or due to changes in ambient humidity.

[0053] Figure 2 An example embodiment of the fastening element 2 for a cover according to the present invention is shown.

[0054] like Figure 2 As shown, the fastening element 2 includes a head 21. The head 21 of the fastening element has a generally parallelepiped shape and a rectangular base.

[0055] Multiple protrusions 214 extend from the top surface of the head 21, one function of which is to ensure contact with the top surface of the side cavity 34 of the panel 3. One purpose of establishing this contact is to facilitate compression of the resilient body 23 of the fastening element 2 along an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of these profiles. The advantage of doing this with protrusions is that it does not excessively increase friction between the fastening element 2 and the panel 3, which is desirable for both the installation operation and subsequent movement absorbed by the cover after installation.

[0056] Additionally, a groove may be formed adjacent to the protrusion 214 and passing through the head 21. This through groove 213 of the protrusion provides a certain degree of elasticity to the protrusion 214. This elasticity allows for elastic deformation, which facilitates the insertion and mounting of this side of the head 21 into the side cavity 34 of the panel 3.

[0057] Fastening element 2 also has mounting holes 211 so that, for example, screws can be inserted into the fastening element. This is particularly useful when installing the first and last panels to prevent unwanted lateral slippage of the panels. It should be noted that the use of such a mounting element is not necessary, and not using such an element when installing the cover allows for faster installation.

[0058] The head 21 of the fastening element 2 also has an expansion channel 212. The expansion channel 212 extends longitudinally through the central region of the head and divides the head into two parts, thereby allowing each part of the head 21 to operate independently and providing greater capacity to absorb deformation caused by the contraction / expansion of the material constituting the cover.

[0059] A neck 22, smaller than the head 21, connects the bottom surface of the head 21 to the elastic body 23. The neck 22 has side grooves 221 that extend longitudinally through the central region on both sides of the neck to make the fastening element 2 more flexible. The use of these grooves 221 allows the expansion channel 212 to apply force without causing breakage in the fastening element 2.

[0060] Two arms 233 extend from the neck 22 of the fastening element 2, forming an elastic body 23. Each arm 233 has a straight initial region, followed by a shoulder region 231 and a limb terminating at a free end 232. In the example, the limb is curved and guides its free end 232 toward the center of the fastening element 2. The free ends 232 of the two arms 233 face each other with a small separation distance between them. These arms 233 are positioned at a distance from each other such that the arms 233 can pass through slots in the profile into which they are inserted.

[0061] When the elastic body 23 is placed in its working position within the cavity of the profile, the arm 233 is compressed, thereby applying pressure on the bottom surface 14 of the guide cavity 12, and the shoulder 231 applies pressure on the top surface 15 of the guide cavity 12.

[0062] The fastening element 2 is made of a flexible material, preferably a thermoplastic material.

[0063] Now for reference Figure 3 A detailed perspective view shows fastening elements 2 simultaneously installed onto the longitudinal profile 1, adjacent left panel 31, and adjacent right panel 32. Preferably, the panels have a tongue-and-groove system for easy interlocking between the panels. Figure 3 In the example shown, panels 31 and 32 have complementary mortise and tenon joints on their right and left sides.

[0064] Fastening element 2 is located in the intersection area between profile 1 and adjacent panels 31 and 32. Each portion of the head 21 of fastening element 2 is inserted into the side cavity 34 of each adjacent panel 31 and 32. Protrusion 214 remains in contact with the top surface of the side cavity 34 of the adjacent panels 31 and 32. Simultaneously, the elastic body of fastening element 2 is inserted into the guide cavity 12 of profile 1.

[0065] The spacing between the conjugate tongue and groove profiles defines the drain joint 35. This spacing is determined by the width of the base of the head 21. This feature eliminates the need for additional separating elements to define the drain joint 35 between panels, which in turn reduces the number of elements required for installing the cover and the time required for installation.

[0066] Another preferred embodiment envisions the use of fastening elements with smaller head sizes, whose ability to fasten panels is separated, allowing for a simpler and more controlled disassembly process. Fastening elements with smaller head sizes can use both double-groove and single-groove profiles.

[0067] Figures 4A to 4C Fastening element 7 and edge-removing fastening element 8 are shown.

[0068] Figure 4A Fastening element 7 is shown, which is connected to... Figure 1Compared to the embodiments described above, this one has a smaller head. The fastening element 7 can fasten up to two panels 3 simultaneously. Furthermore, a finishing fastening element 8 can be seen, which is typically composed of one half of fastening element 2 or 7, and is capable of fastening a single panel 3. The finishing fastening element 8 is particularly suitable for fastening the first and last panels of the cover, and is also suitable for reinstalling panels after the cover has been installed.

[0069] Figure 4B and Figure 4C Multiple panels 3 are shown, mounted on profile 1 and connected together by fastening elements 7 and 8. (See diagram) Figure 4C As shown, adjacent front and / or rear sides of the panel rest on a double-groove longitudinal profile 1 (or on two adjacent single-groove longitudinal profiles). Fastening elements 7 or 8 are inserted into the grooves of these profiles, thereby independently securing two adjacent panels to the profile 1 on their front and / or rear sides.

[0070] Figures 5A to 5C Three different mounting configurations of the cover according to the invention are shown, the standard form ( Figure 5A ), fishbone form ( Figure 5B ) and the human-shaped form ( Figure 5C ).

[0071] Figure 5A Corresponding to Figure 1 The embodiment shown, Figure 5B Corresponding to another embodiment shown in Figure 7, and Figure 5C This corresponds to the final embodiment shown in Figure 9.

[0072] Figures 6A to 6C Three different mounting configurations of the cover according to the invention are shown, the standard form ( Figure 6A ), fishbone form ( Figure 6B ) and the human-shaped form ( Figure 6C ).

[0073] Figure 6A Corresponding to the embodiment shown in Figure 4, Figure 6B Corresponding to another embodiment shown in Figure 8, and Figure 5C This corresponds to the final embodiment shown in Figure 10.

[0074] Figure 7 shows a preferred embodiment of the cover suitable for installation in a herringbone configuration.

[0075] Figure 7A and Figure 7B Fastening element 2 is shown, suitable for mounting panel 3 in a fishbone configuration. (As shown in...) Figure 2In one embodiment, the fastening element 2 has a head 21, which includes a plurality of protrusions 214, a protrusion through groove 213 adjacent to the protrusions 214, two mounting holes 211 and an expansion channel 212.

[0076] The head 21 has a generally triangular shape, with the angle bisector of one angle coinciding with the central axis of the profile groove. This angle is greater than 0° and less than 180°. Preferably, the angle is 90°. The use of right angles is particularly suitable for mounting panels in a herringbone configuration.

[0077] A neck 22, smaller than the head 21, connects the bottom surface of the head 21 to the elastic body 23. The neck 22 has side grooves 221 to make the fastening element more flexible.

[0078] Two arms 233 extend from the neck 22 of the fastening element 2 to form an elastic body 23. Each arm 233 has a straight initial region, followed by a shoulder region 231 and a limb terminating at a free end 232.

[0079] like Figure 7A As shown, the free end 232 contacts the guide cavity 12 of the profile 1, which has a recess 13 on its lower surface to distribute the elastic energy of the elastic body 23 across the entire surface of the profile. Preferably, the recess 13 has a concave cross-section with an arc and a longitudinal furrow to reduce the contact surface between the free end 232 and the surface of the recess 13. This reduction in contact surface facilitates the sliding of the fastening element along the profile cavity. Preferably, this feature is common to all embodiments.

[0080] Figure 8 illustrates a preferred embodiment of a cover suitable for installation in a herringbone configuration. (As shown in...) Figure 2 In one embodiment, the fastening element 7 has a parallelogram-shaped base head 21, which includes a plurality of protrusions 214, a protrusion through groove 213 adjacent to the protrusions 214, a mounting hole 211, and an expansion channel 212.

[0081] Figure 8A Two panels 3 are shown, mounted on profile 1 and connected together by fastening element 7. (Example) Figure 4C As shown, adjacent front and / or rear sides of the panel rest on a double-groove longitudinal profile 1 (or on two adjacent single-groove longitudinal profiles). Fastening elements 7 are inserted into the grooves of these profiles to independently secure two adjacent panels to the profile 1 on their adjacent front and / or rear sides at a specific angle.

[0082] This angle is determined by the rotational offset between the head 21 of the fastening element 7 and the elastic body 23.

[0083] Figure 9 shows another preferred embodiment of the cover suitable for installation in a herringbone configuration.

[0084] Figure 9A and Figure 9B The fastening element 2 is shown, suitable for mounting panel 3 in a herringbone configuration. (As shown in...) Figure 2 In one embodiment, the fastening element 2 has a head 21, which includes a plurality of protrusions 214, a protrusion through groove 213 adjacent to the protrusions 214, a mounting hole 211, and an expansion channel 212.

[0085] In this preferred embodiment, the head 21 and the elastic body 23 rotate relative to each other at an angle greater than 0° and less than 180°.

[0086] Figure 10 shows another preferred embodiment of the cover suitable for installation in a herringbone configuration using fastening element 7.

[0087] As previously stated, this invention allows for two different installation methods.

[0088] The first installation method includes distributing multiple profiles 1 in a parallel and coplanar manner on a solid surface, positioning the bottom surface of a panel on at least two consecutive profiles, inserting a portion of one side of the head 21 of a fastening element 2 into a side cavity 34 of the panel such that the head 21 is mounted to the panel, positioning the elastic body 23 of the fastening element 2 facing a groove in the profile, and applying a vertical compressive force to the side of the top surface of the panel on which the fastening element 2 is mounted to insert the elastic body 23 into a guide cavity 12 of the groove in the profile 1. The number of fastening elements 2 can be as many as the number of profiles 1 intersecting with the panel 3.

[0089] The second method involves distributing multiple profiles 1 in a parallel and coplanar manner on a solid surface, positioning the bottom surface of a panel 3 on at least two adjacent profiles, inserting the elastic body 23 of the fastening element 2 into the guide cavity 12 of the profile 1 by applying a vertical force for inserting the fastening element 2, and sliding the fastening element 2 through the guide cavity 12 of the profile 1 until a portion of the head 21 of the fastening element 2 is installed in the side cavity 34 of the panel 3. The process for installing the fastening element 2 can be repeated multiple times on the same panel, as many times as the number of profiles 1 intersecting with the panel 3.

[0090] This installation method is less efficient because it adds the step of sliding the fastening element 2 through the guide cavity 12 of the profile 1. It is also less convenient for the operator because they must apply force on a smaller surface (the head of the fastening element) to insert the elastic body 23 of the fastening element 2.

[0091] Neither the first nor the second method requires pre-alignment of the fastening element 2 on the bottom surface of panel 3. This reduces the time required to install the cover and lowers the likelihood of breakage of the fastening element 2 when it is pressed into the profile cavity for insertion. Furthermore, it should be noted that no additional device is required for aligning the fastening element 2.

[0092] Another feature of the invention relates to a method for removing a cover using a removal device 4, as shown in FIG11. The device includes a handle 41 that allows the application of a leverage force F and two blades, a first rear blade 42 and a second front blade 43, rigidly connected to the handle and to each other via a connecting element 44. These blades have a specific geometry to fit precisely into the side guides of the panel already installed in its final position. The removal method is as follows: - Insert the first blade 42 of the extraction device 4 into one side of the panel to create a fulcrum 6. - Insert the second blade 43 of the extraction device 4 into the opposite side of the panel to generate a resistance point 5. The handle 41 of the extraction device 4 determines the point of application of the lever force F between the fulcrum 6 and the resistance point 5, thereby defining the resistance arm of the lever (the distance between the resistance point 5 and the fulcrum 6) and the effort arm of the lever (the distance between the point of application of the force and the fulcrum 6). - Apply leverage force F to handle 41 to remove one side of the panel.

[0093] It should be noted that the removal device 4 allows the removal of one or more panels 3 and allows the operator to work while standing.

[0094] Figure 11B The diagram illustrates how the fastening element 2, located at the resistance point, is released from the guide portion of the profile 1 after a leverage force F is applied to remove one side of panels 31 and 32. After releasing the fastening element 2, adjacent panels 31 and 32 can be removed effortlessly, while other panels and fastening elements adjacent to said panels 31 and 32 remain connected to the profile 1.

[0095] Although the invention has been described with reference to embodiments thereof, it should be understood that these are not intended to limit the invention, and therefore many configurations or other details that will be apparent to those skilled in the art after interpreting the subject matter disclosed in this specification, claims, and drawings may vary. Thus, all variations and equivalents that fall within the broader scope of the appended claims will be included within the scope of the invention.

[0096] Refer to the attached diagram labels: 1. Profiles or elongated profiles 11 Guiding Department 12. Guide cavity 13 recess 14 Bottom 15 Top surface 2 Fastening components 21 Head 211 mounting holes 212 Expansion Channel 213 Protruding through groove 214 Protrusion 22 Neck 221 slots 23. Flexible Body 231 Shoulder area 232 Free End 233 arms 3 panels 31 Adjacent left panel 32 Adjacent right panel 33 Side Groove 34 Side cavity 35 Drain connector 4. Remove the device 41 Handle 42 rear blades 43 Front blades 44 Connecting elements 5 Resistance Points 6 fulcrums 7 Fastening components 8. Edge fastening components.

Claims

1. A surface covering comprising a plurality of panels, a plurality of elongated profiles, and a plurality of fastening elements, wherein the panels are disposed on the profiles, the profiles facing the bottom surface of the panels such that an intersection area is formed between the profiles and the panels, and the fastening elements are located in the intersection area, wherein: The panel has guide portions on its sides, the guide portions being formed by grooves located at a midpoint height on each side, the grooves extending longitudinally along the side of the panel and providing passage to the cavity. The profile has a guide portion, which includes a guide groove that provides passage to a guide cavity, the guide cavity having a larger cross-section than the guide groove. The fastening element has a head for insertion into a side cavity of the panel and is also accommodated in the profile cavity. The fastening element is characterized in that it has an elastic body connected to the head via a neck smaller than the head, the elasticity of the elastic body allowing it to pass through a groove corresponding to the profile cavity, and also allowing the elastic body to slide within the profile cavity.

2. The cover according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, The elastic body of the fastening element has a shoulder and two arms. When the elastic body is placed in its working position within the profile cavity, the arms are compressed, the arms apply pressure to the bottom surface of the profile cavity, and the shoulder applies pressure to the top surface of the profile cavity.

3. The cover according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, The profile cavity has a recess on its lower surface, and the free end of the arm contacts the recess.

4. The cover according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, The recess has a concave cross-section with an arc.

5. The cover according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The recess has a longitudinal groove to reduce the contact surface between the surface of the arm and the surface of the recess.

6. The cover according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The head of the fastening element has a plurality of flexible protrusions configured to secure the head of the fastening element to the side guide portion of the panel, maintaining contact with the inner surface of the cavity on the side of the panel.

7. The cover according to claim 6, characterized in that, The protrusion has a groove that separates the protrusion from the rest of the head, allowing the protrusion to flex relative to the rest of the head.

8. A fastening element for a cover, said cover being the cover according to any one of the preceding claims, said fastening element having a head for insertion into the side cavity of said panel and simultaneously received in said profile cavity, characterized in that, The fastening element has an elastic body connected to the head via a neck that is smaller than the head. The elasticity of the elastic body allows it to pass through a groove corresponding to the profile cavity and also allows the elastic body to slide within the profile cavity.

9. The fastening element for a cover according to claims 2 to 8, characterized in that, The elastic body has an arm and a shoulder. When the elastic body is placed in its working position within the profile cavity, the arm is compressed, the arm applies pressure to the bottom surface of the profile cavity, and the shoulder applies pressure to the top surface of the profile cavity.

10. The fastening element for a cover according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, The arm is attached to the neck at one end, while the other end remains free.

11. The fastening element for a cover according to any one of claims 8 to 10, characterized in that, The head of the fastening element has a plurality of flexible protrusions configured to attach the head of the fastening element to the side guide portion of the panel and maintain contact with the inner surface of the cavity on the side of the panel.

12. The fastening element for a cover according to claim 11, characterized in that, The protrusion has a groove that separates the protrusion from the rest of the head, thereby allowing the protrusion to flex.

13. The fastening element for a cover according to any one of claims 8 to 12, characterized in that, The neck of the elastic body connecting the fastening element and the head has a groove extending longitudinally through the central region on both sides of the neck to make the fastening element more flexible.

14. The fastening element for a cover according to any one of claims 8 to 13, characterized in that, The head of the fastening element has at least one circular mounting hole, the center of which is located on a central longitudinal axis extending through the head.

15. The fastening element for a cover according to any one of claims 8 to 14, characterized in that, The head of the fastening element has an expansion channel that extends longitudinally through the central region of the head and divides the head into two parts.

16. The fastening element for a cover according to any one of claims 8 to 15, characterized in that, The head has a roughly parallelepiped shape.

17. The fastening element for a cover according to any one of claims 8 to 15, characterized in that, The head has a generally triangular shape, wherein the angle bisector of one angle of the triangle coincides with the central axis of the groove of the profile, and the angle is greater than 0° and less than 180°.

18. The fastening element for a cover according to claim 17, characterized in that, The angle is 90°.

19. The fastening element for a cover according to any one of claims 8 to 15, characterized in that, The head and the elastic body rotate relative to each other at an angle greater than 0° and less than 180°, thereby allowing the intersection between the panel and the profile to also form an angle greater than 0° and less than 180°.

20. The fastening element for a cover according to claim 19, characterized in that, The head and the elastic body rotate relative to each other at a 45° angle, thereby allowing the intersection between the panel and the profile to also form a 45° angle.

21. A method for installing a cover according to claims 1 to 7, wherein the method comprises: - Multiple profiles are distributed in a parallel and coplanar manner on a solid surface. - Insert one side of the head of the fastening element into the side guide of the first panel, so that the head is mounted to the panel. - Position the elastic body of the fastening element to face the groove of the profile. - A vertical compressive force is applied to the side of the top surface of the panel where the fastening element is mounted to insert the elastic body into the cavity in the groove of the profile. - Move the second panel horizontally until the free side of the head of the fastening element is inserted into the side guide of the second panel, so that the head and the second panel are mounted together.

22. A method of removing a cover according to claims 1 to 7 using an extraction device, the extraction device comprising a handle and two blades, the handle for applying force, the two blades being rigidly connected to the handle and rigidly connected to each other, the two blades further having a specific geometry for insertion into a side guide portion of a panel already installed in its final position, wherein the method comprises: - Insert the first blade of the extraction device into the side of the panel to create a fulcrum. - The second blade of the extraction device is inserted into the opposite side of the panel to create a resistance point. The handle of the extraction device determines the point of force application between the fulcrum and the resistance point, thereby defining the resistance arm of the lever (the distance between the resistance point and the fulcrum) and the effort arm of the lever (the distance between the point of force application and the fulcrum). - Apply leverage to the handle to remove one side of the panel.

23. The method for removing a cover according to claim 22, characterized in that, After a force is applied, the fastening element on the side of the panel located between the point of application of the force and the point of resistance is released from the profile guide, while the fastening element on the opposite side of the panel remains installed in the profile guide.

24. Use of a cover according to any one of the preceding claims for mounting in a herringbone or chevron pattern or any other mounting pattern defining a parallel panel pattern therein.

25. Use of a cover according to any one of the preceding claims for mounting on horizontal and vertical surfaces.

26. Use of a cover according to any one of the preceding claims for installation indoors and outdoors.

Images