REVERSIBLE COATING PANEL AND ITS INSTALLATION METHOD

Abstract

The interlocking panel is designed to be reversibly fixed to a mounting wall (P) or to the floor. It comprises a first coupling means (C1) and a second coupling means (C2) adapted to each other to allow lateral interlocking of the panel, with reversibility of the panel by longitudinal rotation (around the axis A) of the panel. A first edge (10c) of the panel has a first flange (102-1), the outer face (102b) of which forms, on one side, the extreme part of the facing face (10a), and a second opposite edge (10c) has a second flange (102-2), the outer face (102b) of which forms, on the other side of the panel, the extreme part of the other facing face (10b).Part of the first wing (102-1) protrudes laterally on the first side relative to the first coupling means (C1) and part of the second wing (102-2) protrudes laterally on the second side relative to the second coupling means (C2). Fig. 14.

Description

Title of the invention: REVERSIBLE COATING PANEL AND ITS INSTALLATION METHOD technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of interior decoration and the installation of cladding panels on a surface, such as a wall or ceiling, or on a floor. In this field, it relates to a new reversible cladding panel as well as its method of installation and fixing to a wall or floor. Previous art

[0002] To date, various types of decorative panels are known which can be laid coplanarly and side by side to form a floor covering or a wall or ceiling covering.

[0003] More specifically, in the field of floor coverings, various types of decorative panels are known to date which have the characteristic of being reversible. Each reversible floor covering panel has two opposing decorative faces (also commonly referred to as facing faces), which may be identical or different, and which generally have a single-layer or multi-layer decorative surface coating.

[0004] A first type of reversible floor covering panel, called interlocking, i.e. interlocking edge to edge with another panel without the use of an additional coupling piece, is described for example in international patent application WO2016 / 010414. The panel has an assembly tongue and an interlocking groove of complementary shape, which are centered and symmetrical with respect to a median plane of the panel, and which allow the panel to be interlocked with a similar neighboring panel, in a lateral interlocking direction parallel to the median plane of the panels, and offering the possibility of orienting either of the two facing faces indifferently outwards, which is therefore the facing face visible once the panel is laid on the floor.

[0005] A second type of reversible floor covering panel is also described in US patent application 2010 / 0083603. In certain embodiments (in particular [Fig. 15] to [Fig. 21]), the reversible panels are of the interlocking type and have, on each side of the panel, hybrid male-female coupling means, which are complementary and reversed and allow for edge-to-edge, reversible and contiguous interlocking of the panels in an interlocking direction, which is not lateral, but which is perpendicular to the median plane of the panels.

[0006] In another embodiment (Fig.26 to Fig.28), the reversible panels are not of the interlocking type, but the side-by-side assembly of two reversible panels is an assembly usually designated "false tongue", that is to say an assembly made by means of an additional coupling piece which is inserted into grooves made in the opposite edges of the two panels.

[0007] The floor covering panels described in these two publications WO2016 / 010414 and US 2010 / 0083603 are suitable for being laid on the floor without being fixed thereto (floating installation), and they are not suitable for being laid and fixed, by means of non-through fixings, on a laying surface, such as a wall or ceiling.

[0008] Various interlocking cladding panel solutions are also known, which are suitable for being fixed, in a non-reversible manner, to a surface such as a wall or ceiling.

[0009] International patent application WO02 / 052113 discloses, for example, different variants of interlocking panels, which are adapted to be fixed in a non-reversible manner to a wall, by means of through fixings, of the fixing screw type, which pass through the edge of one of the panels.

[0010] This international patent application WO02 / 052113, together with international patent application WO2007 / 115747, discloses various interlocking panel designs adapted for irreversible fixing to a wall by means of rigid, non-through, hook-shaped fixing clips. These fixing clips, generally made of metal, are partially insertable, for example laterally, into one of the panel edges and have a base that can be used to fix them to the wall.

[0011] The use of through-fasteners is restrictive. Indeed, with regard to For interlocking panels, through-fasteners must be oriented approximately perpendicular to the panel face, so that the fastener head interferes as little as possible with the interlocking process. This imposes a constraint on the panel edge design, which must be designed to provide access to the through-fastener in a direction perpendicular to the rear mounting face of the panel. In practice, this necessitates extending the panel edge laterally to provide sufficient lateral surface area for the through-fastener. Furthermore, through-fasteners are not suitable for robustly fixing panels directly to a mounting surface such as a wall, and in practice, the panels must be installed on wooden battens that have been pre-fixed to the wall.

[0012] The use of rigid, non-through fixing brackets, which can be partially inserted into the edge of the panel, is more convenient, as it avoids the aforementioned stress inherent in through fixings and saves material by avoiding of having to extend the edge of the panel. In addition, they advantageously avoid the risk of damage to the panel, which can be fixed in a removable manner if necessary, and if necessary be dismantled and reused.

[0013] Patent application WO2015 / 025104 further discloses a technical solution in which the panels are interlocking edge to edge and are fixed to the wall by means of a flexible fixing tab. The solution described in this publication does not allow for reversibility of the panel.

[0014] A solution for wall cladding panels is also known, for example in French patent application FR 2 671 823, which can be fixed to a wall, with a space between the panels, by means of a fixing rail that is fitted into the back face of the panel and which has a central tongue forming a joint between the two front faces of the panels. This solution does not allow the panel to be reversible.

[0015] U.S. patent application US 2022 / 0090388 discloses two reversible flooring panels, each having two grooves in each edge, which can be joined side by side, without butting, with a gap between the panels, by means of a coupling piece with a false tongue function, which is inserted into grooves in the opposite edges of the two panels. The flooring panels described in this publication are not of the interlocking type and are not suitable for fixing to the floor or to a wall.

[0016] US patent application US 2004 / 0144056 discloses decking boards made of extruded plastic, designed to be reversibly joined edge to edge by means of a coupling piece (false tongue) inserted into grooves formed in the edges of the boards. These extruded plastic boards are reversible and can be laid on a supporting structure, for example, made of wooden joists, by being joined edge to edge, reversibly and without butting, with a gap between the boards (Figs. 3 and 4). Each extruded plastic board can also be fastened to this supporting structure by means of a through fastener, for example, self-tapping screws, passing diagonally through the board and the coupling piece (false tongue) between the boards.The flooring panels described in this publication are not of the interlocking type and are not suitable for fixing to a wall using non-through fixing(s). Presentation of the invention

[0017] A first objective of the invention is to provide a "snap-fit" cladding panel, that is to say, one that can be fitted edge-to-edge on both sides with another similar adjacent panel without the use of an additional coupling piece, which interlocking panel can be reversibly fixed to a mounting surface, such as a wall or ceiling, or to the floor, by being interlocked edge to edge and reversibly with a similar neighboring panel and using one or more through fixing(s), and preferably by being interlocked edge to edge in a contiguous manner with that other similar neighboring panel.

[0018] A second objective of the invention is to provide a "snap-together" cladding panel, i.e., one that can be snapped edge to edge on both sides with another similar panel next door without the use of an additional coupling piece, which snap-together panel can be reversibly fixed to a mounting surface, such as a wall or ceiling, or to the floor, by snapping edge to edge and reversibly with a similar panel next door and using one or more non-through fixing(s) and / or using one or more through fixings. Summary of the invention

[0019] The invention thus relates to a snap-fit ​​and reversible cladding panel which makes it possible to achieve at least the first objective mentioned above.

[0020] The invention thus relates to a reversible, interlocking cladding panel, adapted for reversible fixing to a wall or floor by means of through-fastener(s), and having the following technical characteristics. The reversible, interlocking cladding panel comprises a first facing face, a second facing face, a first edge extending along a first side of the panel in a longitudinal direction, and a second edge extending along a second opposite side of the panel in the longitudinal direction (X); the first edge comprises a first non-detachable coupling means and the second edge comprises a second non-detachable coupling means; the first and second coupling means are adapted to each other so as to allow lateral interlocking of the panel, with reversibility of the panel by longitudinal rotation of the panel;The first edge comprises a first wing, the outer face of which forms the extreme part of the first facing on the first side of the panel; the second edge comprises a second wing, the outer face of which forms the extreme part of the second facing on the second side of the panel; a part of the first wing projects laterally on the first side relative to the first coupling means and a part of the second wing projects laterally on the second side relative to the second coupling means.

[0021] The projecting part of the first wing and the projecting part of the second wing allow the panel to be fixed, in particular by nailing, screwing, or stapling, by means of through fixings which are passed through said projecting part. Definitions:

[0022] In this text, the terms and expressions listed below shall be understood and interpreted in accordance with the following definitions: - "to interlock" means in this text that the cladding panel can be interlocked edge to edge on both sides with another similar panel, without the use of an additional coupling piece. - The term "reversible" or the expression "reversibly" means in this text that the cladding panel can be individually oriented with respect to the installation wall, in order to choose, from the first facing face and the second facing face of the cladding panel, the one (first or second facing face) to be oriented towards the installation wall, the other facing face (second or first facing face) constituting the visible face. - "breakable wing" should be interpreted as meaning that a part of the wing, which is designated "wingtip", which extends laterally from the distal edge of the wing over at least part of the width of the wing and which extends longitudinally over all or part of the length of the wing, and preferably over the entire length of the wing, may be separated from the panel by any means. - The term "analogous" means in this text that the panel called "analogous" has a first edge which is identical to the first edge of the cladding panel of the invention, and has a second edge, which is identical to the second edge of the cladding panel of the invention. - The term "non-through fixing" means any fixing which can be partially inserted into the first edge and / or the second edge of the cladding panel, without passing through the panel and of which at least a part located outside and on the side of the panel is intended to be fixed to the installation wall or the floor by any means. - The term "through fixing" refers to any fixing that passes through the first or second edge of the cladding panel to fix that cladding panel to the installation wall or floor. - The "median plane" is the (fictitious) plane at mid-thickness of the panel. - The terms "longitudinal", "longitudinally", and "length" each refer to the longitudinal direction in which the first edge and second edge of the panel extend. - The terms "laterally", "lateral", "width", "transverse", "transversely", each refer to the direction which is parallel to the median plane of the panel and which is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first and second edges of the panel.

[0023] In the context of the invention, the material(s) constituting the panel are irrelevant to the invention. The reversible cladding panel may, for example, be made of solid wood, laminate or melamine, or of plastic, in particular PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) or composite materials.

[0024] The reversible cladding panel is preferably solid, but it can also be hollow, and in particular of the honeycomb type.

[0025] The manufacturing process for the reversible cladding panel is irrelevant to the invention, as the cladding panel can be manufactured by machining and / or extrusion and / or molding. However, manufacturing a cladding panel by machining a solid sheet is preferable.

[0026] More specifically, the interlocking and reversible cladding panel may include the following additional and optional features, each additional and optional feature being able to be combined with any of the other technical features of the panel: - The part of the first wing projecting laterally on the first side relative to the first coupling means allows the panel to be fixed by means of through-fastener(s) passed through said projecting part, and more particularly presents a surface large enough for the panel to be fixed by means of through-fastener(s) passed through said projecting part and the part of the second wing (projecting laterally on the second side relative to the second coupling means allows the panel to be fixed by means of through-fastener(s) passed through said projecting part, and more particularly presents a surface large enough for the panel to be fixed by means of through-fastener(s) passed through said projecting part. - The first wing has in the inner face of its projecting part at least one first step which extends in the longitudinal direction (X) and / or the second wing) has in the inner face of its projecting part at least one second step which extends in the longitudinal direction (X). - Said first recess allows to accommodate at least in part, and preferably entirely, the protruding part, and in particular the head, of a through-fastening passed through said protruding part and / or said second recess allows to accommodate at least in part, and preferably entirely, the protruding part, and in particular the head, of a through-fastening passed through said protruding part. The first wing has at least one first longitudinal groove, preferably a pre-cut groove, made in the inner face of the protruding part of the first wing and / or the second wing has at least one second longitudinal groove, preferably a pre-cut groove, made in the inner face of the protruding part of the first wing. The said first longitudinal groove is dimensioned so as to be able to accommodate at least in part, and preferably entirely, the protruding part, and in particular the head, of a through fastener passed through said protruding part and / or in which said second longitudinal groove is dimensioned so as to be able to accommodate at least in part, and preferably entirely, the protruding part, and in particular the head of a through fastener passed through said protruding part. The first coupling means is of the male-female type and comprises a first female coupling part and a first male coupling part; the second coupling means is of the male-female type and comprises a second female coupling part and a second male coupling part. The first coupling means and the second coupling means are reversed relative to each other with respect to the median plane of the panel. The first male coupling part protrudes laterally from the first female coupling part and the second male coupling part protrudes laterally from the second female coupling part. The part of the first wing projecting laterally on the first side is projecting laterally relative to said first male coupling part of the first coupling means and the part of the second wing projecting laterally on the second side is projecting laterally relative to said second male coupling part of the second coupling means. The first female part of the first coupling means is delimited at least by at least a part of the inner face of the first wing and in the second female part (R2) of the second coupling means is delimited at least by at least a part of the inner face of the second wing. The first male coupling part of the first coupling means comprises or is constituted by a first assembly tab and the second male coupling part of the second coupling means comprises or is constituted by a second assembly tab. - The first female coupling part of the first coupling means includes or is constituted by a first interlocking groove and the second female coupling part of the second coupling means includes or is constituted by a second interlocking groove. - The first female part of the first coupling means (Cl) and the second female part of the second coupling means are symmetrical to each other with respect to a longitudinal axis of symmetry of the panel and the first male part of the first coupling means and the second male part of the second coupling means are symmetrical to each other with respect to a longitudinal axis of symmetry of the panel. - The first wing is breakable so that a first piece of wing can be removed from the panel when the first facing face is chosen to be oriented towards the installation wall or towards the ground, and the second wing is breakable so that a second piece of wing can be removed from the panel when the second facing face is chosen to be oriented towards the installation wall or towards the ground. - The portion of the first wing projecting laterally on the first side relative to the first coupling means includes or constitutes said first wingtip which is separable from the panel, and the portion of the second wing projecting laterally on the second side relative to the second coupling means includes or constitutes said second wingtip (which is separable from the panel, and the first wingtip and the second wingtip are each separable from the panel by being cut and / or broken and / or ripped off and / or torn. - The first wing and the second wing are identical. - The interlocking grooves are the same depth. - The assembly tabs have the same width. - The two facing surfaces are different. - Each facing face has a surface coating, which is preferably different for each facing face. - The panel is massive.

[0027] The invention also relates to a first method for installing and fixing at least one first interlocking and reversible panel and a second interlocking and reversible panel to a mounting wall or the floor, said method comprising at least the following operations: (1) when the first facing is oriented towards the mounting wall or the floor, at least the first edge of the first panel is fixed to the mounting wall or the floor by means of at least one through-fastener, which is passed through said protruding part of the first wing of the first panel or where the second facing face is oriented towards the installation wall or towards the ground, at least the second edge of the first panel is fixed to the installation wall or to the ground, by means of at least one through-fastener, which is passed through said projecting part of the second wing of the first panel; (2) the second panel is oriented by selecting, from among the two facing faces of the second panel, the one which is to be oriented towards the installation wall or towards the ground and (3) the first edge or the second edge of the second panel is laterally fitted together with the first edge or the second edge of the first panel which has been fixed by means of said at least one through-fastener.

[0028] More specifically, this process may include the following additional and optional features, each additional and optional feature being able to be combined with any of the other technical features of the process: - Where the projecting parts of the wings of the panel each have a step or longitudinal groove, the fastening operation (1) is carried out in such a way that a projecting part, in particular the head, of said at least one through-fastening is at least partly, and preferably entirely, housed in the step of said projecting part of the first wing or of the second wing of the first panel or is at least partly, and preferably entirely, housed in said longitudinal groove of said projecting part of the first wing or of the second wing of the first panel. - The operation (3) of fitting the second panel with the first panel is carried out so as to assemble the two panels edge to edge, covering with the second panel the non-through fixing(s) located outside the first panel, and preferably so as to assemble the two panels edge to edge and in a contiguous manner. - A cutting tool or a cutting blade or wire cutters are used to remove the first wingtip or the second wingtip.

[0029] The invention also relates to a second method of installing and fixing to a mounting wall or to the floor, at least of a first interlocking and reversible cladding panel referred to above and of a second interlocking and reversible cladding panel referred to above, said method comprising at least the following operations: (1) the first wing (of the first panel) is shortened by removing a piece of the wing of the first wing when the first facing face has been chosen to be oriented towards the mounting wall or towards the floor, or the second wing of the first panel is shortened by removing a piece of the wing of the second wing when the second facing face (10b) has been chosen to be oriented towards the mounting wall (P) or towards the floor; (2) (1) the first edge or the second edge of the first panel whose wing has been shortened is fixed to the wall or the floor by means of non-through fixing(s), this fixing operation being able to be carried out before or after the shortening operation (1); (3) the second panel is oriented by choosing, from the two facing faces (of the second panel), the one which must be oriented towards the wall or towards the floor; (4) the first edge or the second edge of the second panel is laterally fitted together with the first edge or the second edge of the first panel whose wing has been shortened.

[0030] More particularly, the operation (4) of fitting the second panel with the first panel is carried out so as to assemble the two panels edge to edge, covering with the second panel a part of the non-through fixing(s) located outside the first panel, and preferably so as to assemble the two panels edge to edge and in a contiguous manner.

[0031] When the first wing and the second wing are separable, a cutting tool or a cutting blade or a cutting pliers is used to remove a first wing end or a second wing end.

[0032] The invention also relates to the use of several of the aforementioned panels to produce at least part of a wall covering or to produce at least part of a floor covering. Description of the figures

[0033] Other features and advantages of the invention will become more apparent upon reading the detailed description given by way of non-limiting and non-exhaustive example, and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: - [Fig. 1] The [Fig. 1] is an isometric view of a first variant of the realization of a reversible interlocking cladding panel. - [Fig.2] Fig.2 shows the fixing, by means of non-fixing device(s) through(s), of a first panel of the type of that of [Fig.l] and the interlocking of a second analogous panel in accordance with a first interlocking configuration. - [Fig. 3] Fig. 3 shows the fixing, by means of non-fixing material. through(s), of a first panel of the type of that of [Fig.l] and the interlocking of a second analogous panel in accordance with a second interlocking configuration. - [Fig.4] [Fig.4] is an enlargement showing the fixing operation, by means of non-through fixing(s), of a first panel of the type of that of [Fig.1], after removal of one of the wing ends. [Fig.5] [Fig.6] Figures 5 and 6 are enlargements showing the lateral interlocking operation of a second analogous panel with the first panel. [Fig.7] The [Fig.7] is an enlargement showing the fixing of a first panel of the type of that of the [Fig.1] and the fitting of a second analogous panel according to a third fitting configuration. [Fig.8] The [Fig.8] is an enlargement showing the fixing, by means of non-through fixing(s), of a first panel of the type of that of the [Fig.1] and the fitting of a second analogous panel in accordance with a fourth fitting configuration. [Fig.9] Fig.9 represents an example of a cutting tool. [Fig. 10] The [Fig. 10] illustrates a cutting operation of one of the breakable wings of a panel of the type of that of the [Fig.1]. [Fig. 11] The [Fig. 11] is an isometric view of a second variant of an interlocking and reversible cladding panel. [Fig. 12] The [Fig. 12] isometric view of a third variant of the embodiment of a reversible interlocking cladding panel. [Fig. 13] The [Fig. 13] is an isometric view of a fourth embodiment variant of a reversible interlocking cladding panel. [Fig. 14] The [Fig. 14] is an isometric view of a fifth embodiment of a reversible interlocking cladding panel according to the invention. [Fig. 15] [Fig. 15] shows the fixing, by means of non-through fixing(s), of a first panel of the type of that of [Fig. 14] and the fitting of a second similar panel in accordance with a first fitting configuration. [Fig. 16] The [Fig. 16] is an enlargement showing a cutting operation of the panel of the [Fig. 14]. [Fig. 17] [Fig. 18] Figures 17 and 18 are enlargements showing respectively the operation of fixing the panel of [Fig. 14] and the lateral interlocking of a second similar panel. [Fig. 19] [Fig. 19] shows the fixing, by means of non-through fixing(s), of a first panel of the type of that of [Fig. 14] and the fitting of a second similar panel in accordance with a second fitting configuration. - [Fig.20] [Fig.20] is an enlargement showing the operation of fixing, by means of through fixing(s) of a panel of the type of that of [Fig.14], - [Fig. 21] [Fig. 21] is an enlargement showing an example interlocking of a second similar panel with the panel of [Fig.20]. - [Fig.22] [Fig.23] Figures 22 and 23 are isometric views showing other variants of non-through fixings that can be used to fix a panel of the invention. - [Fig.24] The [Fig.24] shows another example of fixing two panels conforming to the [Fig.14], which are fitted together and fixed to a laying wall or to the floor, and shows a starter profile and a finishing profile which are fitted together with the panels. Detailed description

[0034] In the attached figures, the X-axis defines the so-called "longitudinal" direction of a panel. The Y-axis, which is perpendicular to the X and Z axes, defines the so-called "lateral" direction of a panel. The Z-axis, which is perpendicular to the X and Y axes, defines the direction of the thickness of a panel. First variant of the embodiment - Figure 1

[0035] With reference to [Fig. 1], the interlocking and reversible cladding panel 1A comprises a plate 10 having two opposite facing faces 10a and 10b, which are located on either side of a median plane M situated at the mid-thickness of the plate 10 and which are oriented parallel to the (X,Y) plane.

[0036] The IA panel has an axis of symmetry A (fictitious axis), which is parallel to the longitudinal direction X.

[0037] The material(s) constituting the plate 10 are irrelevant to the invention. The plate 10 may, for example, be made of solid wood, laminate or melamine, or of plastic, in particular PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) or composite materials.

[0038] The dimensions XI and Y1 of the panel IA as well as the thickness ZI of the panel IA are not limiting of the invention.

[0039] In this embodiment, and without limiting the invention, the two facing faces 10a and 10b are different, and more particularly, the facing face 10a is grooved and the other facing face 10b is flat. In another embodiment, the two facing faces 10a and 10b may be identical.

[0040] Preferably, the facing face 10a has an RS1 surface coating, in particular a decorative and / or wear-resistant surface coating and the facing face 10b has an RS2 surface coating, including a decorative and / or wear-resistant surface coating

[0041] The surface coatings RS1 and RS2 may be identical or different.

[0042] The surface coating RS1 or RS2 can be of the single-layer or multi-layer type.

[0043] The surface coating RS1 or RS2 can, for example, be a plastic film or It can be made of paper, melamine or wood veneer. It can be fixed by any known means, including gluing and / or heat-sealing.

[0044] The reversible panel IA has a first edge 10c (also commonly called "edge"), which extends longitudinally in the longitude direction X on a first side of the panel and a second edge lOd (also commonly called "edge"), which extends longitudinally in the longitudinal direction X on a second opposite side of the panel.

[0045] The edge 10c of the panel IA defines a first connecting plane Jl, which is oriented parallel to the longitudinal direction X, and which in this particular example is preferably oriented perpendicular to the median plane M mentioned above.

[0046] This edge 10c forms a first coupling means Cl (or first coupling element) that is non-detachable and of male-female type.

[0047] In this particular example, this first coupling means Cl extends lengthwise in the longitudinal direction X of the panel (in other words parallel to the edge 10c), preferably over the entire length XI of the panel.

[0048] This first coupling means Cl is more particularly constituted by a single assembly tongue L1 and by a single interlocking groove RI, which extend lengthwise in the longitudinal direction X of the panel, preferably over the entire length XI of the panel.

[0049] The assembly tab L1 protrudes from the first connecting plane JL

[0050] The interlocking groove RI is delimited by the internal face 102a of a first breakable wing 102-1, by an internal wall 102c in the extension of the face of the tongue L1 oriented towards the facing face 10a and by a bottom wall 102d connecting the internal face 102a of the first breakable wing 102-1 to said internal wall 102c.

[0051] The outer face 102b of the first wing 102-1 forms, on the first side of the panel, the extreme part of the first facing face 10a.

[0052] Wing 102-1 extends laterally to the first connecting plane JL

[0053] The interlocking groove RI is oriented laterally and is preferably substantially parallel to the median plane M of the panel.

[0054] This lateral RI interlocking groove more particularly (but not necessarily) has a U-shaped transverse profile [in the (Y,Z) plane].

[0055] The other edge lOd defines a second connecting plane J2, which is oriented parallel to the longitudinal direction X, and which in this particular example is preferably oriented perpendicular to the median plane M mentioned above.

[0056] This edge lOd forms a second coupling means C2 (or second coupling element) which is non-detachable and of male-female type.

[0057] In this particular example, this second coupling means C2 extends lengthwise in the longitudinal direction X of the panel (in other words parallel to the edge lOd), preferably over the entire length XI of the panel.

[0058] This second coupling means C2 is more particularly constituted by a single assembly tongue L2 and by a single interlocking groove R2, which extend lengthwise in the longitudinal direction X of the panel, preferably over the entire length XI of the panel.

[0059] The assembly tab L2 protrudes relative to the second connecting plane J2.

[0060] The interlocking groove R2 is delimited by the inner face 102a of a second breakable wing 102-2, by an inner wall 102c in the extension of the face of the tongue L2 oriented towards the facing face 10b and by a bottom wall 102d connecting the inner face 102a of the second breakable wing 102-2 to said inner wall 102c.

[0061] The outer face 102b of the second wing 102-1 forms, on the second side of the panel, the extreme part of the second facing face 10a.

[0062] Wing 102-2 extends laterally to the second connecting plane J2.

[0063] The interlocking groove R2 is oriented laterally and is preferably substantially parallel to the median plane M of the panel.

[0064] This lateral R2 interlocking groove more particularly (but not necessarily) has a U-shaped transverse profile [in the (Y,Z) plane].

[0065] The coupling means Cl and C2 are complementary and adapted to each other so as to allow the panel IA to be fitted edge to edge with a second analogous panel in a lateral fitting direction E ([Fig.2], [Fig.3], [Fig.5], [Fig.7] and [Fig.8]), with individual reversibility of the panel IA by a longitudinal rotation ([Fig.1] - rotation R) of 180° of the panel around a longitudinal axis parallel to the longitudinal direction X, such as the axis of symmetry A of the panel.

[0066] By "individual" reversibility, it is meant that the IA panel is reversible without having to change the orientation of the analogous A panel with which it is nestable.

[0067] The lateral interlocking direction E ([Fig.2], [Fig.3], [Fig.5], [Fig.7] and [Fig.8]) is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (X axis) of the interlocking edges 10c and lOd and is preferably parallel to the median plane M of the panel.

[0068] More specifically, with reference to [Fig. 1], the first coupling means The male-female Cl and the second male-female coupling means C2 are reversed relative to each other with respect to the median plane (M) of the panel, the assembly tongue L1 of the first coupling means Cl and the assembly tongue L2 of the second coupling means C2 being located on either side of the median plane M and the interlocking groove RI of the first coupling means Cl and the interlocking groove R2 of the second coupling means C2 being located on either side of the median plane M.

[0069] More particularly, the assembly tab L1 of the first coupling means Cl and the assembly tab L2 of the second coupling means C2 are symmetrical to each other with respect to the axis of symmetry A; the interlocking groove RI of the first coupling means Cl and the interlocking groove R2 of the second coupling means C2 are symmetrical to each other with respect to the axis of symmetry A.

[0070] In the particular embodiment of [Fig.1], the assembly tongue L1 and the interlocking groove R2 on the one hand and the assembly tongue L2 and the interlocking groove RI on the other hand, allow an interlocking commonly referred to as a tongue-and-groove assembly (without locking the assembly).

[0071] Alternatively, the hybrid coupling means Cl and C2 can nevertheless be designed to allow interlocking with self-locking of the assembly in the lateral direction, for example by elastic deformation of the assembly tabs and / or the wings 102-1 and 102-2.

[0072] With reference to [Fig.1], the first wing 102-1 of the panel IA is breakable so that a first end of wing 102' can be removed from the panel when the first facing face 10a is chosen to be oriented towards the installation wall P or towards the ground.

[0073] This first wingtip 102' extends laterally (lateral direction Y) from the distal edge 102e of the wing 102-1 over a distance dl, which corresponds to the width of the wingtip 102', and extends longitudinally (direction X) preferably over the entire length XI of the wing.

[0074] The second wing 10-2 is breakable so that a second wing end 102” can be removed from the panel when the second facing face 10b is chosen to be oriented towards the installation wall P or towards the ground.

[0075] This second wingtip 102'e extends laterally (lateral direction Y) from the distal edge 102e of the wing 102-2 over a distance d2, which corresponds to the width of the wingtip 102', and extends longitudinally (direction X) preferably over the entire length XI of the wing.

[0076] More particularly, but not necessarily the first wing 102-1 and the second wing 102-1 are identical and symmetrical to each other with respect to the axis of symmetry A.

[0077] In the example in [Fig. 2], the widths dl and d2 of the wingtips 102' and 102” are identical. In another variant, the widths dl and d2 may be different.

[0078] More specifically, the first wing 102-1 of the panel IA has a first longitudinal pre-cut groove 103-1, which is located under the surface coating RS1 and is thus masked by this surface coating RS1. The second wing 102-2 of the panel IA has a second longitudinal pre-cut groove 103-1, which is located under the surface coating RS2 and is thus masked by this surface coating RS2.

[0079] These pre-cut grooves 103-1 and 103-2 extend lengthwise in the longitudinal direction (X) of the panel, and preferably over the entire length of the wings 102-1 and 102-2 of the panel.

[0080] These pre-cut grooves 103-1 and 103-2 respectively delimit the wingtip 102' and the wingtip 102” which are each separable from the panel and allow for easy removal of the corresponding wingtip.

[0081] Several examples of installation and fixing, to a wall P or to the floor, of a first panel IA fitted with a second panel l'A analogue will now be described with reference to figures 2 to 10.

[0082] Example of implementation - 1 Ê E interlocking configuration

[0083] In [Fig.2], for the sake of simplification, two panels IA and A are shown which are fitted edge to edge, it being specified that in practice a wall or floor covering comprises a larger number of panels.

[0084] In [Fig.2], panel A is a panel analogous to panel IA and has a first edge 10c identical to the first edge 10c of panel IA, and a second opposite edge lOd, which is identical to the second edge lOd of panel IA.

[0085] As illustrated in [Fig. 2], the analogous panel l'A may be identical to panel IA. However, the analogous panel l'A may also be different from panel IA. For example, an analogous panel l'A may, in particular, have a transverse dimension Y1 different from that of panel 1A and / or a longitudinal dimension XI different from that of panel IA and / or facing faces 10a and 10b that are different from the facing faces 10a and 10b of panel IA.

[0086] To obtain the fixing and interlocking configuration of panels IA and A of [Fig.2], the following procedure is carried out.

[0087] We begin by shortening the wing 102-1 of this panel, by removing the aforementioned wing end 102' (Fig. 4).

[0088] Thus, with reference to [Fig. 4], the distal edge 102f of the part of the wing 102-1 that remains attached to panel IA is positioned recessed by the plane ratio of the connecting plane JL

[0089] The shortening of the wing 102-1 can generally be achieved by cutting and / or breaking and / or tearing and / or ripping off the wing end 102' by any means.

[0090] When the shortening of wing 102-1 is carried out at least by cutting wing 102-1, this cut can be carried out by any means and for example by using any type of cutting blade or knife and for example a cutter blade or by using cutting pliers.

[0091] Preferably, this longitudinal cut can also be made using a suitable cutting tool 3, such as that of [Fig.9].

[0092] This cutting tool 3 comprises a shoe 30 which can be manipulated by hand and in which is formed a U-shaped guide groove 31, delimited by two opposing guide walls 31a and 31b and by a bottom wall 31c connecting the two guide walls 31a and 31b. The width LC (distance between the two guide walls 31a and 31b) of the guide groove 31 is adapted to the thickness of the wing 102-1, such that the wing 102-1 can be fitted ([Fig. 10]) into the guide groove 31.

[0093] The cutting tool 3 includes a cutting blade 32, which can be made of plastic or metal.

[0094] With reference to [Fig.10], the longitudinal cut of the wing 102-1 is made by longitudinally fitting this wing into the guide groove 31 of the cutting tool 3 such that the distal edge 102e of the wing is abutted against the bottom wall 31c of the cutting tool 3 and allows translational guidance of the cutting tool 3 in the longitudinal cutting direction D and such that the cutting edge of the cutting blade 32 is introduced into the pre-cut groove 103-1 by cutting the surface coating RS1.

[0095] The longitudinal cut of this wing 102-1 of the panel is made along the entire length of the wing 102-1 by sliding the shoe 30 of the cutting tool 3 in the longitudinal direction D, so as to make a longitudinal cut at least of the surface coating RS1 along the pre-cut groove 103-1. During its sliding, the shoe 30 is guided by said wing 102-1 of the panel.

[0096] In this particular variant ([Fig. 10]), the cutting tool 3 can also be advantageously used to separate the wing 102-1 from the rest of the panel, by rotating (Arrow F) the cutting tool 3 relative to the panel so as to move the wing tip 102' away from the panel and separate it from the panel by breaking it and / or tearing it away from the panel.

[0097] In another variant, in particular when the wing 102-1 is devoid of pre-cut groove 103-1, this longitudinal cut can also be made in the wing over a depth corresponding to the entire thickness of this wing 102-1, so as to completely separate the wing end 102' of this wing from the rest of the panel without additional handling.

[0098] In another variant, in particular when the wing 102-1 is devoid of pre-cut groove 103-1, this longitudinal cut can be made so as to make in the wing 102-1 a longitudinal pre-cut, over a depth which is less than the thickness of this wing, but which is sufficient to be able to completely separate the end of wing 102' from the rest of the panel by breaking it along said longitudinal cut, for example by bending it and / or tearing it off and / or ripping it.

[0099] In another variant, cutting pliers can also be used. In this case, it is also sufficient to remove, for each non-through fastener 2A, only a part of the wingtip 102', which extends longitudinally (X axis) over a part of the length (i.e. dimension of the wing in the longitudinal direction of the X axis) of the wing, so as to provide an appropriate space for each fastener 2A, without having to shorten the wing over its entire length (direction X).

[0100] Once the wing tip 102' has been removed from the panel, the first panel IA is positioned relative to a mounting surface P, such as a wall or ceiling, or relative to the floor, selecting the facing that should be oriented towards the mounting surface or towards the floor, the other facing being the face of the panel intended to be visible. In [Fig. 2], the facing 10a of panel IA is the one that has been selected to be oriented towards the mounting surface or towards the floor.

[0101] With reference to [Fig.2], when the IA panel is a starting panel whose edge lOd is not already nested with another neighboring panel, the edge lOd of this IA panel is pre-fixed to the installation wall or to the floor by any means, preferably as illustrated using specific non-through fixings 2B, which are spaced and distributed along the edge lOd of the panel.

[0102] When the IA panel is not a starting panel, the edge lOd is in this case already fixed to the installation wall P or to the ground by being fitted edge to edge with a neighboring similar panel (not shown in the figures).

[0103] Once the edge lOd of the IA panel is fixed to the mounting wall or the floor, the following operations are carried out.

[0104] With reference to [Fig.4], the edge 10c of the panel IA is fixed to the mounting wall P or to the floor, by means of several non-through fixings 2A, which are spaced and distributed along the edge lOd of the panel.

[0105] In this particular example, each fastener 2A is a rigid, thin-walled fastener, for example made of metal. It comprises a base 20a connected by a wall of transverse connection 20c to a part 20b forming a retaining lug. The retaining lug 20b and the connecting wall 20c form a hook.

[0106] In another embodiment, the base 20a of the fastener 2A may also include a through-hole for the passage of a through-fastener such as a screw or nail. In this case, the edge of this through-hole is preferably chamfered so as to accommodate the head of the screw or nail, thus preventing the head of the screw or nail from protruding.

[0107] As illustrated in [Fig.2], the fixing of the second edge 10c of the panel IA to the installation wall P or to the ground, by means of each non-through fixing 2A, is carried out by inserting the retaining tab 20b of the fixing 2A into the groove RI of the panel IA, in contact with the inner face 102a of the wing 102-1, the transverse connecting wall 20c being positioned near the edge 102e of the wing 102-1.

[0108] Next, the base 20a of the fixing 2A, which is offset outside the groove RI, is fixed to the wall P or to the floor, for example by stapling it.

[0109] The fixing piece 2A differs from the aforementioned starting fixing 2B only in that the height of its wall 20c is lower than that of the fixing 2B.

[0110] Once the edge 10c of the IA panel is fixed to the installation wall P or to the ground by means of the fixings 2A, the second analogous panel A is assembled with the first IA panel ([Fig.5] and [Fig.6]).

[0111] To assemble panels IA and A, the facing face of analogous panel A is chosen to be visible, and the other facing face is oriented towards the wall or the floor. In the specific case of Figures 5 and 6, the facing face oriented towards the wall P or the floor is the second facing face 10b.

[0112] Next, ([Fig.6]) the assembly tongue L1 of the second panel l'A is fitted into the interlocking groove RI of the first panel 1A and the assembly tongue L1 of the first panel IA into the interlocking groove RI of the second panel 1A, by moving the second panel l'A in translation parallel to the installation wall P and in the interlocking direction E.

[0113] Preferably, with reference to [Fig.2], this interlocking is achieved by bringing the distal edge 102e of the wing 102-1 of the second panel IA to a stop, and along its entire length, against the edge of the first panel IA, the connecting plane J1 of the first panel IA thus coinciding with the connecting plane J1 of the second panel IA (close interlocking).

[0114] With reference to [Fig. 2] and [Fig. 6], shortening the wing 102-1 of the first wing panel IA (removing the wingtip 102') advantageously allows for a sufficient space 102-3 between the two panels IA, A at least for the transverse connecting wall 20c of the fixing 2A and in the particular case of [Fig.2] also for part of the base 20a of the fixing 2A.

[0115] Shortening the wing 102-1 of the first panel IA (removing the wing tip 102') also allows the distal edge 102e of the wing 102-1 of the second panel IA to be brought abutt, along its entire length, against the edge of the first panel IA, thus enabling a butt-to-edge and flush assembly (without gaps between the panels) in the connection planes J1 of panels IA and A. Consequently, the risk of soiling and sealing problems between the two panels are avoided, and the joint between the two panels does not require the installation of inter-panel seals. Furthermore, the joint between the two panels is aesthetically pleasing.

[0116] With reference to [Fig.2], in this interlocking configuration, the assembly tabs L1 and L2 are not interlocked to the bottom wall of the interlocking grooves RI and R2. Alternatively, the coupling means Cl and C2 of the panels IA and A can be designed to obtain an interlocking depth different from that of [Fig.2], and in particular a greater interlocking depth.

[0117] Once the second panel l'A is fitted with the panel IA, the second edge lOd of this panel l'A is fixed to the installation wall P, by means of several fixings 2A, which are spaced and distributed along the edge lOd of the panel l'A, and by proceeding in the same manner as previously described for the first panel IA, the wing 102-2 of the panel l'A being oriented towards the installation wall P or towards the ground, and so on...

[0118] Other interlocking and fastening configurations - [Fig.3] - [Fig.7] - [Fig.8]

[0119] In the interlocking and fastening configuration of [Fig.3], the two panels IA and A have been reversed relative to the panels IA and A of [Fig.2], each panel IA and A having undergone a rotation of 180° around its axis of symmetry A. In this configuration, it is the wingtip 102” that has been removed from the wing 102-2 of the first panel IA and the second coupling means C2 of the panel IA is interlocked with the second coupling means C2 of the second panel A. The two panels IA and A are joined in their connecting planes J2.

[0120] In the interlocking and fastening configuration of [Fig. 7], only the first panel IA has been reversed relative to the first panel IA of [Fig. 2], having undergone a 180° rotation around its axis of symmetry A. In this configuration, it is the wingtip 102” that has been removed from the wing 102-2 of the first panel IA and the second coupling means C2 of the first panel IA is interlocked with the first coupling means C1 of the second panel A. The two panels IA and A are joined, the connecting plane J2 of the first panel IA coinciding with the connecting plane J1 of the second panel A.

[0121] In the interlocking and fastening configuration of [Fig. 8], only the second panel l'A has been reversed relative to the second panel l'A of [Fig. 2], having undergone a 180° rotation around its axis of symmetry A. In this configuration, it is the wingtip 102' that has been removed from the wing 102-1 of the first panel 1A and the first coupling means Cl of the first panel IA is interlocked with the second coupling means C2 of the second panel l'A. The two panels IA and l'A are joined, the connecting plane J1 of the first panel IA coinciding with the connecting plane J2 of the second panel l'A.

[0122] In the interlocking configurations shown in Figures 7 and 8, the insertion depths of the tongues L1 and L2 in the interlocking grooves R2 and R2 are identical. In another embodiment, these insertion depths may be different, particularly when the interlocking grooves R1 and R2 have different depths and / or when the assembly tongues L1 and L2 have different widths.

[0123] In another embodiment, the panels IA and A are not necessarily fixed directly to the installation wall P or to the floor, but can be fixed indirectly to the installation wall by being placed and fixed on spaced battens previously fixed to the installation wall or to the floor. 2nd embodiment variant - Figure 10

[0124] Another variant of the embodiment of a reversible interlocking cladding panel IB has been shown in [Fig. 10].

[0125] Panel IB of [Fig.10] differs from panel IA of [Fig.1], in that the pre-cut grooves 103-1 and 103-2 of panel IA have been replaced by pre-cut grooves 104-1 and 104-2, which extend in the longitudinal direction X, preferably over the entire length XI of panel 1. These longitudinal pre-cut grooves 104-1 and 104-2 are made in the inner face 102a respectively of the first wing 102-1 and the second wing 102-2.

[0126] Like the pre-cut grooves 103-1 and 103-2 of panel IA, they allow the wingtips 102' and 102" to be delimited respectively and facilitate the separation of these wingtips from the rest of the panel. 3rd embodiment variant - Figure 12

[0127] Another variant of the embodiment of an interlocking and reversible IC cladding panel has been shown in [Fig. 12].

[0128] Panel IC of [Fig. 12] differs from panel IA previously described, in that the pre-cut grooves 103-1 and 103-2 of panel IA have been replaced respectively by longitudinal notches 105-1 and 105-2 which extend in the longitudinal direction (X).

[0129] The notch 105-2 is formed, at the entrance of the RI slot, in the inner face 102a of the wing 102-1 and allows the wingtip 102' to be delimited with a thickness of lesser el (el <e).

[0130] The notch 105-2 is formed at the entrance of the slotted groove R2 in the inner face 102a of the wing 102-2 and allows the wingtip 102” of lesser thickness el (el to be delimited <e). 4th embodiment variant - Figure 13

[0131] Figure 13 shows another variant of the embodiment of a 1D interlocking and reversible cladding panel.

[0132] Panel 1D of [Fig. 13] differs from panel IA described previously only in that the wings 102-1 and 102-2 of panel 1D lack pre-cut grooves, but have marks 106-1 and 106-2 respectively, which are made on at least one of the edges 10e of the wings, which is transverse to edges 10c and 10d. These marks 106-1, 106-2 allow the wingtip 102' and wingtip 102' to be visually identified.

[0133] Each registration mark 106-1 and 106-2 may be a registration mark or equivalent made on the panel. Each registration mark 106-1 and 106-2 may also be a different coloration of the wingtip 102' and 102" on the 10th edge of the panel, allowing the wingtip 102' to be distinguished. Each registration mark 106-1 and 106-2 may also be a shallow notch of sufficient depth to allow its visualization.

[0134] Each locating mark 106-1 and 106-2 can also be made on or in the inner face 102a of the wings 102-1 and 102-2. 5th embodiment variant - Figures 14 to 21

[0135] Figure 14 shows another alternative embodiment of a reversible interlocking cladding panel 1E, which has the advantage of being able to be fixed to a wall P or to the floor by means of non-through fixings such as, for example, the fixings 2A previously described and which can also be fixed to a wall P or to the floor by means of through fixings, such as nails, screws or staples.

[0136] With reference to [Fig. 14], panel 1E differs from the panels previously described in that its breakable wing 102-1 and its breakable wing 102-2 are wider and extend respectively beyond the distal edge of the assembly tabs L1 and L2. The wings 102-1 and 102-2 are therefore partially projecting laterally on the sides of the panel relative to the assembly tabs L1 and L2.

[0137] The projecting part of the wing 102-1 includes the first wing end 102' separable from the panel and the projecting part of the wing 102-2 includes the first wing end 102” separable from the panel.

[0138] More particularly, and preferably in the particular example of [Fig.14], the projecting part of the wing 102-1 constitutes the first wing end 102' separable from the panel and the projecting part of the wing 102-2 constitutes the first wing end 102” separable from the panel.

[0139] These wing ends 102' and 102" in projection allow the panel to be fixed where appropriate by means of through fixings, for example ([Fig. 19]) by nailing, screwing or stapling the wing end 102' or 102", when it is not removed from the wing.

[0140] Preferably, but not necessarily, the inner face 102a of each wing 102-1 and 102-2 has a step 105-1, 105-2 which extends in the longitudinal direction (X), so that the thickness el of the wingtip 102', 102" is less than the thickness of the rest of the wing.

[0141] These 105-1 and 105-2 offsets have several uses.

[0142] They allow guidance of a cutting blade 4 during the longitudinal cutting operation ([Fig. 16]). They allow space for the head of through-fasteners ([Fig. 19]) when the panel is fixed by means of through-fasteners.

[0143] In [Fig. 14], the distal edge of the L1 (L2) assembly tab is in a longitudinal PI plane and the 105-1 (105-2) notch is aligned with the distal edge of the 102-1 (102-2) wing in this PI plane

[0144] Alternatively, the step 105-1 (105-2) can be made in the wing 102-1 (102-2) at a lateral position in the wing located beyond this plane PI.

[0145] Alternatively, the notch 105-1 (105-2) can be replaced by longitudinal pre-cut grooves in the wing 102-1 (102-2) similar in particular to the pre-cut grooves 103-1 and 103-2 previously described for the panel IA. Each longitudinal pre-cut groove can be made in the wing 102-1 (102-2) at different lateral positions, namely by being positioned back from the end of the assembly tongue L1 (L2), i.e. back from plane PI, or by being aligned with the distal edge of the assembly tongue L1 (L2) in plane PI, or by being positioned beyond the distal edge of the assembly tongue L1 (L2), i.e. beyond plane PI.

[0146] Figure [Fig.15] shows an example of the interlocking configuration of panel 1E with an analogous panel 1E.

[0147] Obviously, in the same way as for the panels IA and A described above, the panel 1E and the panel E are each reversible by longitudinal rotation of the panel about a longitudinal axis of the panel, such that their axis of symmetry A and the panels 1E and E are nestable in the four interlocking configurations that have been described for panels IA and A, only one of these configurations being illustrated in [Fig. 15].

[0148] Figure 16 shows a longitudinal sectioning operation of one of the two breakable wings of panel 1E, in this case wing 102-1 of panel 1E, which is made to cut and remove the end of the wing, in this case the end of wing 102'. Unlike the cutting operation of [Fig. 10], this longitudinal cutting operation is carried out using a cutting blade 4, of the cutter blade type, and can be carried out before panel 1E is positioned against the installation wall or against the floor or can be carried out after panel 1E has been positioned against the installation wall P or against the floor, as illustrated in [Fig. 15].

[0149] Figure 17 shows the operation of fixing panel 1E using fixing(s) non-through 2A and [Fig.18] show the interlocking operation of panel l'E with panel 1E, to obtain the interlocking configuration of [Fig.15]. These figures 17 and 18 are comparable respectively to figures 4 and 6 described previously.

[0150] Fig. 19 shows the two panels 1E and E fitted together in the same interlocking configuration than [Fig. 15] with the difference that through fixings 5 ​​are used to fix panel 1E.

[0151] With reference to [Fig.20], instead of using non-through fixings 2A ([Fig. 17]), the wing 102 1 (or 102-2) of the panel 1E is fixed without having removed the wing end 102' (or 102”) and by fixing it, on cleats T fixed to the installation wall P or to the ground (in Figures 20 and 21 only one cleat T is shown), by means of through fixings 5 ​​passed through the protruding part of the wing 102-1 (or 102-2), i.e. in this particular variant through the wing end 102' (or 102”) which is separable from the panel and which has a sufficient surface for each through fixing 5.

[0152] This wing 102-1 (or 102-2) can for example be nailed, screwed or stapled, the through-fastening 5 being in particular a nail, a screw or a staple.

[0153] Advantageously, the head 5a of the through fasteners 5 (i.e., the projecting part of these through fasteners 5) is at least partially housed, and preferably, as illustrated in [Fig. 21], is fully housed, in the recess 105-1 (105-2) of the wing 102-1 (102-2) so as not to hinder or obstruct the engagement ([Fig. 21]) of the tongue L2 (or L1) of the second panel E in the groove RI (or R2) of the first panel E. To this end, the depth of each recess 105-1 and 105-2 will thus be adapted to the height of this projecting part 5a of the through fasteners 5.

[0154] Alternatively, the inner face 102a of each wing 102-1, 102-2 may have a longitudinal groove in the projecting part of the wing 102-1, 102-2, and each wing 102-1, 102-2 may or may not include a notch 105-1, 105-2. Like the notch 105-1 or 105-2, this longitudinal groove can be used to partially, and preferably entirely, accommodate the protruding portion 5a of the through-fasteners 5 so as not to hinder or obstruct the interlocking ([Fig. 21]) of the tongue L2 (or L1) of the second panel E into the interlocking groove RI (or R2) of the first panel E. For this purpose, the depth and width of each longitudinal groove will be adapted to the dimensions of this protruding portion 5a of the through-fasteners 5. This longitudinal groove can also, but not necessarily, be used as a pre-cut groove.

[0155] Within the framework of the invention, the first wing 102-1 and the second wing 102-2 of a panel of the invention may not have any step 105-1, 105-2, nor any longitudinal groove 103-1, 103-2, 104-1, 104-2; for example, the thickness of the wing 102-1 and the thickness of the wing 102-2 may be constant. Within the framework of the invention, the first wing 102-1 and the second wing 102-2 of a panel of the invention may not have any marking 106-1, 106-2, nor more generally any means of visual identification allowing the width dl or d2 of the wing end 102' or 102”. In this case, it is the installer of the panel who chooses and measures judiciously the width dl or d2 of the wing end 102' or 102” which must be separated from the panel or this width dl or d2 of the wing end 102' or 102” can be adjusted by means of a cutting tool adapted to the panel, such as the cutting tool 3 previously described.

[0156] Panel 1E can also be fixed with non-through fixings and panel l'E can be fixed with through fixings, or conversely, panel 1E can also be fixed with through fixings and panel l'E can be fixed with non-through fixings. Thus, panels 1E and l'E for mixed use (i.e., able to be hung on a wall with through or non-through fixings) can be fixed to a wall or floor to form a covering in which all 1E panels are fixed with non-through fixings, or in which all panels are fixed with through fixings, or in which some panels are fixed with non-through fixings and other panels are fixed with through fixings. Other examples of non-through fixings

[0157] For the implementation of the invention, other non-through fastening structures may be considered, the invention not being limited to the implementation of the particular fastening 2A of the accompanying figures. In particular, and without being exhaustive or limiting, one may, for example, use non-through fastenings 2C of the type of that in [Fig. 22] with a thicker base 20a or non-through fastenings 2D, of the type of that in [Fig. 23].

[0158] Non-through fixings are not necessarily fixed by nailing, screwing or stapling to the mounting wall or the floor. For example, as with the 2D fixing in [Fig. 23], non-through fixings can be mounted, preferably by sliding, in transverse fixing rails R which have been fixed to the mounting wall P or to the floor by being aligned parallel to the lateral direction Y. Starter profiles and finishing profiles

[0159] Figure 24 shows two interlocking cladding panels 1E and E fixed to a wall or floor by means of non-through fixings 2C.

[0160] On this [Fig.24], the first panel 1E being a starting panel, a specific starting profile 6 is used which is fitted with the first panel 1E. This starting profile 6 is fixed to the installation wall or to the floor by means of non-through fixings 2C.

[0161] On this [Fig.24], the second panel E being the last panel to be assembled, the installation of the panels is completed by fitting a specific finishing profile 7 with the second panel E. This finishing profile 7 does not need to be fixed to the installation wall P or to the floor.

[0162] .

Claims

1.

2. Demands Interlocking and reversible cladding panel (1E) comprising a first facing face (10a), a second facing face (10b), a first edge (10c) extending along a first side of the panel in a longitudinal direction (X), and a second edge (1Od) extending along a second opposite side of the panel in the longitudinal direction (X), wherein the first edge (10c) comprises a first non-detachable coupling means (C1) and the second edge (1Od) comprises a second non-detachable coupling means (C2), wherein the first coupling means (C1) and the second coupling means (C2) are adapted to each other so as to allow lateral interlocking of the panel, with reversibility of the panel by longitudinal rotation of the panel, wherein the first edge (10c) comprises a first flange (102-1), the outer face (102b) of which forms the extreme part of the first facing face (10a) on the first side of the sign,in which the second edge (10d) comprises a second wing (102-2), the outer face (102b) of which forms on the second side of the panel the extreme part of the second facing face (10b) on the second side of the panel, in which a part of the first wing (102-1) projects laterally on the first side relative to the first coupling means (C1) and a part of the second wing (102-2) projects laterally on the second side relative to the second coupling means (C2). A panel according to claim 1, wherein the portion of the first wing (102-1) projecting laterally on the first side relative to the first coupling means (C1) allows the panel to be fixed by means of through-fastener(s) (5) passing through said projecting portion, and more particularly has a sufficiently large surface area for fixing the panel by means of through-fastener(s) (5) passing through said projecting portion, and wherein the portion of the second wing (102-2) projecting laterally on the second side relative to the second coupling means (C2) allows the panel to be fixed by means of through-fastener(s) (5) passing through said projecting portion, and more particularly has a sufficiently large surface area important for fixing the panel by means of through fixing(s) (5) passed through said protruding part.

3. Panel according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the first wing (102-1) has in the inner face (102a) of its projecting part at least one first step (105-1) which extends in the longitudinal direction (X) and / or wherein the second wing (102-2) has in the inner face (102a) of its projecting part at least one second step (105-2) which extends in the longitudinal direction (X).

4. Panel according to claim 3, wherein said first recess (105-1) allows to accommodate at least in part, and preferably entirely, the projecting part (5a), and in particular the head, of a through fastener (5) passed through said projecting part and / or wherein said second recess (105-1) allows to accommodate at least in part, and preferably entirely, the projecting part (5a), and in particular the head, of a through fastener (5) passed through said projecting part.

5. Panel according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first wing (102-1) has at least one first longitudinal groove, preferably a pre-cut groove, made in the inner face (102a) of the projecting part of the first wing (102-1) and / or wherein the second wing (102-2) has at least one second longitudinal groove, preferably a pre-cut groove, made in the inner face (102a) of the projecting part of the first wing (102-1).

6. Panel according to claim 5, wherein said first longitudinal groove is dimensioned so as to be able to accommodate at least in part, and preferably entirely, the projecting part (5a), and in particular the head, of a through fastener (5) passed through said projecting part and / or wherein said second longitudinal groove is dimensioned so as to be able to accommodate at least in part, and preferably entirely, the projecting part (5a), and in particular the head of a through fastener (5) passed through said projecting part.

7. Panel according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first coupling means (Cl) is male-female and comprises a first female coupling portion (RI) and a first male coupling portion (Ll), wherein the second coupling means (C2) is of male-female type and comprises a second female coupling part (R2) and a second male coupling part (L2).

8. Panel according to claim 7, in the first coupling means (Cl) and the second coupling means (C2) are reversed relative to each other with respect to the median plane (M) of the panel.

9. Panel according to any one of claims 7 or 8, wherein the first male coupling part (L1) is projecting laterally from the first female coupling part (RI) and the second male coupling part (L2) is projecting laterally from the second female coupling part (R2).

10. Panel according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the part of the first wing (102-1) projecting laterally on the first side is projecting laterally from said first male coupling part (L1) of the first coupling means (C1) and wherein the part of the second wing (102-2) projecting laterally on the second side is projecting laterally from said second male coupling part (L2) of the second coupling means (C2).

11. Panel according to any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the first female part (RI) of the first coupling means (Cl) is delimited at least by at least a part of the inner face (102a) of the first wing (102-1) and wherein the second female part (R2) of the second coupling means (C2) is delimited at least by at least a part of the inner face (102a) of the second wing (102-2).

12. Panel according to any one of claims 7 to 11 wherein the first male coupling part (L1) of the first coupling means comprises or is constituted by a first assembly tab and the second male coupling part (L2) of the second coupling means comprises or is constituted by a second assembly tab.

13. Panel according to any one of claims 7 to 12, wherein the first female coupling part (RI) of the first coupling means comprises or is constituted by a first interlocking groove and the second female coupling part (R2) of the second coupling means comprises or is constituted by a second interlocking groove.

14. Panel according to any one of claims 7 to 13, wherein the first female part (RI) of the first coupling means (Cl) and the second female part (R2) of the second coupling means (C2) are symmetrical to each other with respect to a longitudinal axis of symmetry (A) of the panel and wherein the first male part (L1) of the first coupling means (Cl) and the second male part (L2) of the second coupling means (C2) are symmetrical to each other with respect to a longitudinal axis of symmetry (A) of the panel.

15. Panel according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the first wing (102-1) is breakable so as to be able to remove from the panel a first wing end (102') when the first facing face (10a) is chosen to be oriented towards the installation wall (P) or towards the ground, and wherein the second wing (102-2) is breakable so as to be able to remove from the panel a second wing end (102”) when the second facing face (10b) is chosen to be oriented towards the installation wall (P) or towards the ground.

16. Panel according to claim 15, wherein the portion of the first wing (102-1) projecting laterally on the first side relative to the first coupling means (C1) comprises or constitutes said first wingtip (102') which is separable from the panel, and wherein the portion of the second wing (102-2) projecting laterally on the second side relative to the second coupling means (C2) comprises or constitutes said second wingtip (102”) which is separable from the panel, and preferably wherein the first wingtip (102') and the second wingtip (102”) are each separable from the panel by being cut and / or broken and / or ripped off and / or torn.

17. A method for installing and fixing to a mounting wall (P) or to the floor, at least one first interlocking and reversible panel (1E) according to any one of claims 1 to 16 and a second interlocking and reversible panel (1E) according to any one of claims 1 to 16, said method comprising at least the following operations: (1) when the first facing face (10a) is oriented towards the mounting wall (P) or towards the floor, at least the first edge (10c) of the first panel (1E) is fixed to the wall of

18.

19. installation (P) or to the ground, by means of at least one through-fastener (5), which is passed through said projecting part of the first wing (102-1) of the first panel (1E) or when the second facing face (10b) is oriented towards the installation wall (P) or towards the ground, at least the second edge (10c) of the first panel (1E) is fixed to the installation wall (P) or to the ground, by means of at least one through-fastener (5), which is passed through said projecting part of the second wing (102-2) of the first panel (1E); (2) the second panel (E) is oriented by choosing, from the two facing faces (10a, 10b) of the second panel, the one which must be oriented towards the installation wall (P) or towards the ground and (3) the first edge (10c) or the second edge (lOd) of the second panel is laterally fitted with the first edge (10c) or the second edge (lOd) of the first panel which has been fixed by means of said at least one through fixing (5). A method according to claim 17, wherein at least the first panel (1E) is according to any one of claims 3 to 5 and wherein the fastening operation (1) is carried out in such a way that a projecting part (5a), in particular the head, of said at least one through-fastener (5) is at least partly, and preferably entirely, housed in the recess (105-1 or 105-2) of said projecting part of the first wing (102-1) or the second wing (102-2) of the first panel (1E) or is at least partly, and preferably entirely, housed in said longitudinal groove of said projecting part of the first wing (102-1) or the second wing (102-2) of the first panel (1E). A method for installing and fixing to a support wall (P) or to the floor, at least one first interlocking and reversible cladding panel according to any one of claims 1 to 16 and a second interlocking and reversible cladding panel according to any one of claims 1 to 16, said method comprising at least the following operations: (1) shortening the first wing (102-1) of the first panel by removing a wing tip (102') from the first wing (102-1) when the first facing (10a) has been chosen to be oriented towards the support wall (P) or towards the floor, or shortening the second wing (102-2) of the first panel by removing a wing tip (102”) from the second wing (102-2) when the second facing (10b) has been chosen to be oriented towards

20. (1) the installation wall (P) or towards the ground; (2) the first edge (10c) or the second edge (lOd) of the first panel whose wing has been shortened is fixed to the installation wall (P) or to the ground by means of non-through fixing(s), this fixing operation being able to be carried out before or after the shortening operation (1); (3) the second panel is oriented by choosing, from the two facing faces (10a, 10b) of the second panel, the one which must be oriented towards the installation wall (P) or towards the ground; (4) the first edge (10c) or the second edge (lOd) of the second panel is laterally fitted with the first edge (10c) or the second edge (lOd) of the first panel whose wing has been shortened. Use of several panels according to any one of claims 1 to 16 to make at least part of a wall covering or to make at least part of a floor covering.

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