floor panel

Abstract

Floor panel for forming a floor covering, wherein the aforementioned floor panel (1) encloses a substrate (15) and a decorative top layer (16) applied thereto, wherein the floor panel (1) is provided with a cover (23) on at least one side edge (4), characterized in that the cover (23) extends continuously from a first adjacent side edge (2) along the relevant side edge (4) to a second adjacent side edge (3), wherein the aforementioned cover (23) encloses a water-repellent substance, wherein the aforementioned floor panel (1) is provided with a lower edge region (24) on its upper surface adjacent to the relevant side edge (4) and wherein the aforementioned cover (23) overlaps the aforementioned lower edge region (24).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to floor panels.

[0002] The invention relates in particular to panels used, for example, for constructing a floating floor. Such floor panels are known, for example, from WO 97 / 47834 and can be provided with profiled edge areas on two opposite sides, which enclose milled, interlocking coupling means that make it possible to connect two such floor panels to each other at the respective sides, preferably without the use of adhesive. Optionally, the coupling means can be designed with a certain preload, that is, the contour of the coupling means is slightly overlapping, so that in the coupled state a tension is created that presses the panels together. Such preload is advantageous in order to counteract the formation of gaps after installation. This can also limit the penetration of dust and moisture.In some cases, the milling quality of the coupling elements is insufficient to keep the seams permanently watertight. Furthermore, the corners of such panels are more susceptible to water ingress. At the corners, the profiled edges of adjacent side edges intersect, and therefore the milled coupling elements may be missing or insufficient in these areas.

[0003] In the case of panels with a moisture-sensitive substrate and / or top layer, such as a substrate based on MDF or HDF (medium-density fiberboard), moisture penetration into the seams of a panel-based floor covering can lead to swelling and / or discoloration, which becomes noticeably visible on the decorative surface of such panels. Furthermore, such swelling of the substrate itself can lead to accelerated wear of the floor surface. Additionally, moisture penetration into the seams of a floor covering is problematic in itself, even if neither the substrate nor the top layer is moisture-sensitive. In such a case, water can accumulate under the floor covering, potentially leading to mold growth and the associated problems.

[0004] From WO 2008 / 078181, it is known to treat the side edges of a floor panel with an MDF or HDF substrate with a water-repellent substance containing a fluorinated polymer or copolymer. The substance is applied to the side edge of the floor panel using a vacuum device, for example, of the type known from DE 92 02 976 U1. Starting and stopping such a vacuum device at the entry and exit points of the side edge is difficult to fine-tune and can result in the corners of the side edge not being sufficiently covered with the water-repellent substance.

[0005] The present invention is mainly aimed at offering an alternative floor panel, wherein, according to various preferred embodiments, a solution can be offered for one or more of the problems of floor panels from the prior art.

[0006] To this end, the disclosure, according to its first independent aspect, relates to a method for manufacturing panels, wherein the method includes at least the step of covering or treating one or more side edges of a panel in question, in which the panel is moved past an application device with its respective side edge relative to it, characterized in that the application device includes at least one, preferably at least two, nozzles, wherein at least one nozzle is positioned, viewed in the plane of the panel, at an angle of less than 90° to the corresponding side edge. Preferably, the application device is stationary while the panel is moved past the respective nozzles.This can be done, for example, in a so-called "double-end profiler" or a through-feed milling machine, which is designed, for instance, to apply profile edges to the relevant side edge and the opposite side edge. The respective nozzles can then be fixed while the panel is moved by the feed mechanism in the milling machine, for example, with a conveyor chain and pressure belts. An arrangement in a through-feed milling machine results in better and more repeatable application quality. Additionally, the relevant side edge can be guided vertically between so-called sliding and pressure shoes at the application point.

[0007] Since the nozzle is positioned at an angle of less than 90° to the relevant side edge, it can also treat an adjacent side edge, including the corner between these side edges, at least partially. Preferably, both nozzles are positioned at an angle of less than 90° to the respective side edge. According to the most preferred embodiment, both nozzles are arranged such that a first nozzle operates in a direction with a component that opposes the movement of the aforementioned panel, and a second nozzle operates in a direction with a component that is parallel to the movement of the aforementioned panel and not opposite to, but in the same direction as, the movement of the panel. In this way, both side edges adjacent to the respective side edge can be at least partially treated or covered.Furthermore, the respective corners between the respective side edge and the adjacent side edges can also be treated or covered according to the respective application device.

[0008] As described, the first and / or second nozzle is preferably active both at the respective side edge and at one of the side edges adjacent to that side edge. When a floor panel is inserted with its respective side edge, the first nozzle can become active before the front corner passes the first nozzle. In this way, the front adjacent side edge can be at least partially covered. The second nozzle can remain active after the floor panel has passed the second nozzle with its rear corner, such that the rear adjacent side edge is at least partially covered. Preferably, the portion of the respective side edge treated by both nozzles is limited to less than 10 percent of the length of the respective side edge.

[0009] Preferably, the opposite side edge is treated in a similar manner.

[0010] It is clear that, due to the special arrangement where two nozzles can be active in one direction with opposing components, precise start-stop control of the nozzles is not required. As mentioned above, the nozzles on the adjacent side edges of the panel can remain active for some time, even before and after the endpoints of the actual edge to be covered—that is, before and after the corners formed by both adjacent side edges.

[0011] Preferably the panel is rectangular and elongated and at least one or both short side edges are covered or treated according to the method.

[0012] Preferably, the aforementioned adjacent side edges are also coated with the same substance, regardless of whether this is done using a similar application device or not. Since the corners are covered by the application device mentioned in the first aspect, it is not necessary to take special measures to cover the adjacent side edges. It is therefore possible to choose to use application devices known in the prior art, such as vacuum application, spray application, or a transfer technique, for example, using a rotating wheel that picks up the coating substance from a container and transfers it to the edge in question, a technique known per se from WO 2006 / 038867.It is of course not out of the question that the adjacent side edges are treated in a similar way to the procedure of the first aspect.

[0013] For example, the long edges of an elongated panel can first be milled or otherwise profiled and then covered or treated using state-of-the-art equipment, such as a vacuum device or transfer technology. Start-stop accuracy is less critical here, as the ends of the long edges are removed during the profiling of the short edges. Subsequently, the short edges are preferably milled or otherwise profiled and then covered according to the process, with a portion of each of the two adjacent long edges also being covered. This maximizes the quality of the coverage at the final corners between the short and long edges.

[0014] It is clear that, according to the most preferred embodiment, at least two nozzles are used, each operating in one direction with respective components that are opposite to and extend in the direction of movement of the panel. According to an alternative embodiment, at least one nozzle can be used, which is movably arranged so that it operates on a panel in at least two different directions, preferably at least in a first direction with a component in the direction of movement of the panel and at least in a second direction with a component opposite to the direction of movement of the panel. Such an embodiment can be achieved, for example, by making the respective nozzle rotatable.It goes without saying that the respective nozzle is preferably controlled and / or moved in such a way that it operates on both the relevant side edge and the two adjacent side edges. This is preferably achieved by having the nozzle, in a first position, operate with a component in a direction opposite to the movement of the base panel when a base panel is fed in and before the front corner passes the nozzle. In this way, the front adjacent side edge can be at least partially covered. The nozzle can remain active, and after the base panel has passed the second nozzle with its rear corner, it is active in at least a second position with a component in the direction of movement of the panel, so that the rear adjacent side edge is at least partially covered by the same nozzle.Preferably, the nozzle rotates from the first to the second position while working at the respective side edge. The nozzle may also assume an intermediate position perpendicular or nearly perpendicular to the corresponding side edge to provide coverage along that edge.

[0015] Preferably, the aforementioned coating includes a water-repellent substance. Alternatively, the aforementioned coating can include a colorant, an air-purifying substance, or a substance that releases a fragrance or perfume. However, the invention is primarily intended for the application of a water-repellent coating. It is clear that such a water-repellent coating is preferably applied, at least partially, by applying the water-repellent substance using the spray technique described in the disclosure.

[0016] Preferably, the aforementioned water-repellent substance is a solvent-based mixture, emulsion, or dispersion of a water-repellent substance. Rapid drying can be achieved by using a solvent other than water, without the need for heating devices. Preferably, the solvent in question has a flash point above 30 °C, or more preferably 60 °C or higher.

[0017] Preferably, the aforementioned panel encloses a substrate with a decorative top layer applied thereon. Preferably, the decorative top layer itself is waterproof, as is the case with a decorative top layer that encloses a lacquer layer, for example, an acrylic-based lacquer layer, or a melamine layer, or a thermoplastic layer, such as a PVC layer (polyvinyl chloride layer). By covering one or more side edges of a panel with a decorative top layer applied thereon with a water-repellent substance according to the method, the effect of moisture from the underside of the decorative top layer can be limited. With a decorative top layer that is waterproof in itself, a more water-resistant floor covering can be obtained, since one or more seams between the panels of such a floor covering are now also water-repellent to a certain extent.If the aforementioned coating, applied to one or more edges, includes a colorant, this can preferably be chosen to match the decorative topcoat, for example, to conceal joints in the flooring. Alternatively, the colorant can be chosen to be darker or lighter than the decorative topcoat to highlight joints.

[0018] Preferably, the aforementioned coating is applied at least near the edge of the decorative top layer on the relevant side edge. This ensures that at least the transition between the side edge and the decorative top layer is covered or treated. With a coating that encapsulates a water-repellent substance, this minimizes the risk of moisture penetrating the substrate directly beneath the decorative top layer, and thus the risk of any moisture penetration having visible effects on the surface of the panels, for example, because the substrate swells and pushes up the decorative top layer at the relevant side edge. With a coating that encapsulates a colorant, this minimizes the risk of a portion of the substrate remaining visible and disruptive directly adjacent to the decorative top layer.

[0019] Preferably, the panel is provided with profiled edge areas at least on the relevant side edge and an opposite side edge. These profiled edge areas include coupling means that allow two such panels to be joined together at the relevant side edges. Such panels can be joined without glue to form a floor covering. The present method can improve the properties of adjacent side edges in the floor covering. For example, if at least one, and preferably both, of the adjacent side edges are covered with a water-repellent substance, the penetration of moisture into the adhesive-free joint between the respective side edges can be prevented.For example, if at least one, and preferably both, of the adjacent side edges are covered with a colorant, joints or height differences between these side edges can be partially concealed or highlighted.

[0020] Preferably, the panel's upper surface, which adjoins the relevant side edge, is provided with a lower edge area, for example, a chamfer or other bevel. Preferably, any decorative covering layer of the panel extends continuously from the entire upper surface, across the relevant lower edge area, to the side edge covered by a trim piece. Preferably, the trim piece overlaps the decorative covering layer located in the lower edge area. A lower edge area can, in itself, partially conceal the appearance of joints or the effects of moisture penetration at the seams between adjacent panels. Furthermore, the possible overlap of the trim piece on the side edge with the upper surface can make it less visually obtrusive.

[0021] It is clear that the covering according to the invention can lead to a layer being present on the relevant side edge and / or to an impregnation of the substrate of the panel at the location of the relevant side edge.

[0022] Furthermore, it is clear that the present invention relates to panels that can be obtained using the method of the first aspect. With the same objective as in the first aspect, the invention, according to its second independent aspect, relates to a floor panel for forming a floor covering, wherein the floor panel comprises a substrate and a decorative top layer applied thereto, and wherein the floor panel is provided with a covering on at least one side edge, characterized in that the covering extends continuously from a first adjacent side edge along the side edge in question to a second adjacent side edge. It is understood that the aforementioned covering preferably comprises a water-repellent substance. Similar advantages to those described in the first aspect are obtained, regardless of the type of application device used for this purpose.

[0023] Preferably, the floor panel of the second aspect is provided with profiled edge regions at least on the relevant side edge and an opposite side edge, which include coupling means that enable the coupling of two such panels. Preferably, the aforementioned floor panel is provided with a lower edge region on its upper surface adjacent to the relevant side edge. Preferably, the aforementioned cover is designed to overlap with the aforementioned lower edge region.

[0024] It is clear that the floor panel of the second aspect is preferably obtained by the method of the first aspect and that the floor panel has a corresponding preferred embodiment like the panels mentioned in the first aspect.

[0025] To better illustrate the features of the invention, some preferred embodiments are described below as examples without limiting character with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein: Fig. 1 represents a floor panel that was obtained according to the procedure of the first aspect; Fig. 2 this floor panel in a cross-section according to the in Fig. Line II-II shown in 1; Fig. 3 for a larger-scale variant in Fig. 2 shows the area marked with F3; Fig. 4 shows a variant in a similar view; Fig. 5 schematically shows some steps of a procedure according to the revelation; Fig. 6 a cross-section according to the in Fig. Line VI-VI shown in section 5; Fig. Figures 7 to 11 schematically illustrate some further steps of a procedure according to the disclosure and Fig. 12 a variant in a similar view to that of Fig. 9 shows.

[0026] Fig. Figure 1 shows an elongated, rectangular floor panel 1, which is provided on two pairs of opposite side edges, 2-3 and 4-5, with profiled edge areas 6 that enclose mechanical coupling parts 7.

[0027] Fig. Figure 2 illustrates that the coupling parts 7 used enable the locking of two such floor panels 1 both in the horizontal direction H and in the vertical direction V. For locking in the vertical direction V, i.e., in a direction perpendicular to the top surface 8 of the floor panel 1, the coupling parts 7 shown here are essentially designed as a tongue 9 and a groove 10. Locking in the horizontal direction H, i.e., in a direction perpendicular to the aforementioned vertical direction V and in the plane of Fig. 2, in this case, is achieved by means of locking elements in the form of a projection 11 on the underside of the spring 9 and a recess 12 in the lower lip of the groove 10. When two such floor panels 1 are coupled, the locking elements 11-12 interact and prevent the floor panels 1 from separating. This is shown by the floor panel 1 indicated by the dashed line 13, where it is clearly visible that an overlap 14 can occur between the uncoupled contours of the groove 10 and the spring 9, more precisely between the contours of the respective locking elements 11-12. Such an overlap 14 can create a so-called preload when joining two floor panels. The concept of preload is known from WO 97 / 47834.Preferably, the mechanical coupling parts 7 used result in a backlash-free locking of two such floor panels in the aforementioned horizontal direction H and vertical direction V, and even better, the coupling parts 7 result in a backlash-free locking in all directions in the plane determined by the aforementioned directions V and H.

[0028] It is clear that the floor panels 1 obtained within the scope of the invention can have any shape, such as a rectangular, square, hexagonal or similar shape, and can also be provided with any coupling parts 7.

[0029] In the Fig. 1 and Fig. The floor panel 1 shown in Figure 2 is a laminate floor panel 1 containing a substrate 15, which consists entirely of a wood-based material such as MDF or HDF. Furthermore, the aforementioned coupling parts 7 are integrally formed with this substrate 15. The floor panel 1 also contains a decorative top layer 16 on a plastic base. In this case, the decorative top layer 16 is a so-called "DPL" layer, which in this example consists of a decorative layer 17 with a printed motif 18 and an applied wear-resistant layer 19, such as an overlay. Both the decorative layer 17 and the overlay 19 contain a resin-impregnated paper layer. The overlay also contains wear-resistant particles such as corundum. On its underside 20, the floor panel 1 has a counter layer 21, which also contains a resin-impregnated paper layer.

[0030] At least part of the surface area 22 of the profiled edge areas 6 is covered with a covering 23 which in this case includes a water-repellent substance, such as a fluorinated polymer or copolymer or a cured monomer-free UV varnish or a copolymer of ethylene acrylic acid.

[0031] Fig. Figure 2 shows that the cover 23 here forms a layer or film with a specific thickness T. In this figure, as well as in the figures discussed below, Fig. 3 and Fig. Figure 4 schematically shows this layer lying on the surface 22 of the profiled edge regions 6. It is clear that in reality, this layer may have penetrated the surface region 22 of the relevant edge region 6 to a greater or lesser extent, or even completely. It is clear that the priority is to limit the thickness T of the layer on the surface 22 to a minimum thickness T, for example, by applying a suitable thinning agent to improve the absorption of the covering 23 into the substrate 15. In this way, it will not pose a major obstacle if the relevant edges 2-3 are coupled to a similar base panel 1. It should be noted that the thickness T of the film is exaggerated. In reality, the thickness T may be in the micrometer range or may not be present at all.

[0032] Fig. Figure 3 shows a variant in which the cover 23 covers the transition between the substrate 15 and the decorative top layer 16, as well as a limited strip below the top edge of the floor panel 1. Particularly when using a cover 23 with the aforementioned active substances, especially fluorinated polymers or copolymers, or monomer-free UV lacquers, which are particularly effective in forming a water-resistant surface, the use of such active substances in strip form is also very beneficial for conventional laminate floor panels or other floor panels not specifically designed for use in damp rooms. This is because conventional laminate floor panels have the disadvantage that cleaning with a damp cloth allows moisture to be absorbed into the substrate, causing it to swell and the laminate top layer to be permanently pushed up near the edges of the floor panels.Since the aforementioned active substances now enable a particularly efficient seal, it is no longer possible for moisture to penetrate directly under the laminate top layer into the substrate, thereby eliminating or otherwise minimizing the aforementioned effect.

[0033] In Fig. Figure 3 shows that the cover 23 can also extend to the upper surface 8 of the base panel 1. Generally, the aim is for the cover 23 to at least cover the transition between substrate 15 and top layer 16.

[0034] Fig. Figure 4 shows a variant in which the profiled edge regions 6 enclose at least one surface 22A, which is a lower edge region 24 or a chamfer, in this case a beveled edge. As shown, the cover 23 can also be provided on the surface 22A of this lower edge region 24. In the example shown, the decorative cover layer 16 extends uninterrupted from the upper surface 8 of the floor panel 1 across the surface 22A of the lower edge region 24.

[0035] Fig. Figure 5 schematically shows a few steps in a process according to the disclosure, by which the floor panel 1 is made from the Fig. 1 to 4 can be produced. The aforementioned coating 23, in the form of an emulsion or dispersion 25 consisting at least of water and the active ingredient incorporated therein, is applied to the surface 22-22A of the profiled edge regions 6. This can be done, for example, as in this case, by means of a blasting or spraying technique using a continuous vacuum application device, which is described in more detail below. However, it is clear that any other technique can be used, such as spraying with a nozzle, impregnation by rollers, raking, pouring, etc.

[0036] In the Fig. In the example shown in Figure 5, the aforementioned emulsion or dispersion 25 is applied to the surface of the edge regions 6 in at least two layers. The first layer 26 is dried by a drying device 27 before the second layer 28 is applied. After the application of the active substance 23 is complete, the profiled edge regions 6 treated with the emulsion or dispersion 25 are further forced dried by means of a drying device 29. Such drying can be carried out, for example, by radiation such as infrared or ultraviolet radiation, as shown here. However, it is also possible to use any other technique, such as drying ovens or hot air supply.

[0037] It should be noted that the process shown is a continuous treatment in which the floor panel 1 is passed by the nozzles 30 and the drying devices 27-29. Such a treatment can be easily integrated into existing floor panel production systems.

[0038] Fig. Figure 6 schematically shows one of the nozzles 30 used in the example. These are so-called "slant nozzles," such as those known from DE 92 02 976 U1. Such nozzles 30 are typically used for the continuous application of substances to the sides of panels. For this purpose, such nozzles 30 have a so-called pass-through gap 31, which fits almost without play against the profiled edge area 6 to be treated. The substance 23-25 ​​to be applied is supplied via flexible hoses 32 in the immediate vicinity of the relevant profiled edge areas 6, and excess substance is immediately extracted via a suction line 33, thus limiting the risk of contamination of the decorative side or top surface 8 of the floor panel 1 by the substance. By connecting it with flexible hoses 32 and 33, such a nozzle 30 can be easily adjusted in relation to the edge 6 of the floor panel 1 to be treated.Position. It should be noted that it is not impossible that the floor panel 1, with its decorative side 8 facing downwards, can be guided through the passage slit 31 of such a nozzle 30.

[0039] It is clear that in the Fig. In the examples given in 2 to 4 and 6, the groove side 3-5 of the floor panel 1, which is not shown, was preferably subjected to a similar treatment.

[0040] The Fig. Figures 7 to 11 show how such a cover is attached to the side edges 4 to 5 of the base panel 1 in the Fig. 1 to 6 can be achieved by means of a method that has the features of the first aspect. It is not shown in the figures that the corresponding side edges 4-5 should preferably first be provided with profiled edge regions 6 that enclose mechanical coupling parts 7, preferably mainly in the form of a spring 9 and a groove 10.

[0041] For this purpose, the floor panel 1 is moved with its relevant side edge 4 relative to an application device 34. The relevant application device 34 comprises at least two nozzles 35-36. A first nozzle 35 is arranged at an angle A of less than 90° to the corresponding side edge 4, or in other words, not perpendicular. In the example, a second nozzle 35 is also arranged at an angle B, here equal to and opposite to A, of less than 90° to the side edge 4.

[0042] It is clear that both nozzles 35-36 are arranged such that the first nozzle 35 operates in a direction with a component that is opposite to the movement or direction of movement D of the panel 1, and the second nozzle 36 operates in a direction with a component that is parallel to the direction of movement D of the panel 1.

[0043] By arranging the nozzles 35-36 in the Fig. By steps 7 to 11, it is achieved that the first nozzle 35 can be active both on side edge 4 and on the adjacent side edge 2, and that the second nozzle 36 can be active both on side edge 4 and on the adjacent side edge 3. The resulting cover 23 can then extend continuously from the first adjacent side edge 2 along the covered side edge 4 to the second adjacent side edge 3.

[0044] Such a continuous cover 23 is obtained, as shown in the sequence of figures 7 to 11. Fig. Figure 7 shows that panel 1 is fed in the direction of movement D. The first nozzle 35 becomes active before the front corner point 37 passes the first nozzle 35. The front adjacent side edge 2 is thereby at least partially covered or treated. Fig. Figure 8 shows that the first nozzle 35 remains active at the side edge 4 that is actually to be treated. Fig. 9 and Fig. Figure 10 shows that the second nozzle 36 becomes active at the side edge 4 and takes over from the first nozzle 35, preferably overlapping, as in Fig. 9 shown. Fig. Figure 11 shows that the second nozzle 36 remains active after the panel 1, with its rear corner point 38, has passed the second nozzle 36. In this way, the rear side edge 3 can also be at least partially covered with the cover 23.

[0045] It is clear that by means of the in the Fig. As illustrated in Figures 7 to 10, a qualitative cover 23 can also be obtained at the front corner 37 and the rear corner 38. It can therefore easily overlap with the cover 23 applied to the side edges 2-3, as shown in the Fig. 5 and Fig. Figure 6 illustrates this. Of course, the opposite side edge 5 can also be used in the same way as in the Fig. 7 to 10 will be illustrated.

[0046] Furthermore, it is from the Fig. 7, Fig. 9 and Fig. 11. It is clear that the start and stop times of the application of the cover by the first nozzle 35 and the second nozzle 36 do not necessarily have to be precise. The first nozzle 35 and the second nozzle 36 always remain active on a side edge 2, 3, 4 of the panel 1. However, it is important that in this example, the first nozzle 35 is partially active on the front, adjacent side edge 2, the second nozzle 36 remains partially active on the rear, adjacent side edge 3, and that the first nozzle 35 and the second nozzle 36 work together at least over part of the length of side edge 4. In this way, the angle points 37-38 and side edge 4 are covered 23 or continuously treated.

[0047] Fig. Figure 11 schematically illustrates the alternative embodiment mentioned in the introduction, in which at least one moving nozzle 35 is used. The movement of the nozzle 35 is such that, in a first position P1, the nozzle 35 can be operated in a first direction with a component opposite to the direction of movement of the panel (this first position P1 is on the left side of Fig. 11 illustrated) and in a second position P2 it can be operated in a second direction with a component parallel to the direction of movement of the panel (this second position P2 is on the right side of Fig. (11 illustrated with a dashed line). The nozzle 35 performs a rotational movement R for this purpose. With the application device 34 in Fig. 11. A similar process to that in the Fig. Figures 7 to 10 illustrate the process, but using only one movable nozzle 35. Preferably, the nozzle 35 remains active during the rotational movement R.

[0048] It should be noted that for the sake of clarity, the Fig. As shown in Figures 7 to 11, the side edges 2-3 are preferably already covered or treated, for example by the [missing information]. Fig. 5 device shown, and that the cover 23, which is placed in the by the application device 34 Fig. 7 to 11 are provided, these may overlap.

[0049] It should also be noted that indicators may be incorporated into cover 23 to verify that it has been applied completely to the desired surface. Such indicators may consist of a dye or a substance that, for example, glows when exposed to light or similar irradiation.

[0050] The present invention is by no means limited to the embodiments described above, but such panels can be realized without leaving the scope of the present invention. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] WO 97 / 47834 [0002, 0027] WO 2008 / 078181

[0004] DE 92 02 976 U1 [0004, 0038] WO 2006 / 038867

[0012]

Claims

[1] Floor panel for forming a floor covering, wherein the aforementioned floor panel (1) includes a substrate (15) and a decorative top layer (16) applied thereto, wherein the floor panel (1) is provided with a cover (23) on at least one side edge (4), characterized by , that the cover (23) extends continuously from a first adjacent side edge (2) along the relevant side edge (4) to a second adjacent side edge (3), wherein the aforementioned cover (23) encloses a water-repellent substance, wherein the aforementioned floor panel (1) is provided on its upper surface adjacent to the relevant side edge (4) with a lower edge region (24) and wherein the aforementioned cover (23) overlaps the aforementioned lower edge region (24). [2] Floor panel according to claim 1, wherein the aforementioned cover (23) comprises a colorant. [3] Floor panel according to claim 2, wherein the colouring agent matches the decorative top layer (16) or is darker than the decorative top layer (16) or is lighter than the decorative top layer (16). [4] Floor panel according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the colorant is applied in the form of an emulsion or dispersion, the emulsion or dispersion preferably comprising water. [5] Floor panel according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the aforementioned floor panel (1) is provided with profiled edges (6) at least on the relevant side edge (4) and an opposite side edge (5) which include coupling means (7) which enable the coupling of two such panels (1). [6] Floor panel according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cover (23) forms a layer on the relevant side edge and impregnates the substrate (13) of the floor panel (1) at the location of the relevant side edge. [7] Floor panel according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the decorative top layer (16) is itself waterproof and includes, for example, a lacquer layer, a melamine layer or a thermoplastic layer. [8] Floor panel according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the transition between the relevant side edge and the decorative top layer (16) is provided with the cover (23). [9] Floor panel according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the lower edge area (24) is a chamfer. [10] Floor panel according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the substrate (13) consists entirely of a wood-based material such as MDF or HDF.

Images