Roofing panels and systems for covering a roof surface

Abstract

[The present invention relates to a panel, in particular a roof panel, comprising a panel base having an upper surface and a lower surface, a first panel side and a second panel side, in which the first panel side and the second panel side are located on opposite sides of the panel base, in which the first panel side is provided with a first coupling profile, and in which the second panel side is provided with a second coupling profile to interlock mutually with a first coupling profile of an adjacent panel, a third panel side and a fourth panel side, in which the third panel side and the fourth panel side are located on opposite sides of the panel base, in which the fourth panel side comprises a receiving structure.The invention further relates to a cover comprising a plurality of interconnected panels and a roofing system for covering a roof surface.

Description

Title of the invention: Roofing panel and system for covering a roof surface

[0001] The present invention relates to a panel and a roofing system for covering a roof surface.

[0002] In recent years, roofing materials have seen numerous developments. One example of a well-known solution for covering a roof surface is a tile. Such a tile can be made of one or more materials, for example, stone, brick, or a composite material. One of the disadvantages of a tile is that it often covers only a relatively small area, and a large number of tiles are needed to cover the entire roof surface. Furthermore, the (specific) weight of a tile is relatively high. This weight can compromise the stability of the building structure and potentially lead to additional costs for reinforcing said structure.

[0003] Various types of panels have been introduced, among other things, to address these drawbacks. Panels are now commonly used not only for roofing but also for wall cladding. It is known that panels can be interconnected to cover a roof surface. Such a panel can cover a relatively large area, especially compared to a tile. Furthermore, a panel is often made of a sheet material. Consequently, a panel is often relatively thin and therefore has a relatively limited impact on the stability of the building structure. A panel often has a rectangular shape. Typically, such a panel has a longitudinal and a lateral direction. The longitudinal direction can be understood as the direction along the length of the panel.When panels are joined lengthwise, it can be understood that they are connected to an adjacent panel on its upper and / or lower side. Lateral connection refers to the width of the panel. When panels are joined laterally, it can be understood that they are connected to an adjacent panel on its right and / or left side. However, providing a roof covering made of such sheet material is labor-intensive, requiring considerable skill and expertise. Since such skills can be difficult to acquire nowadays, a simpler solution is preferable. Furthermore, the labor involved in creating a roof covering from this sheet material is... difficult to repair, should it be necessary, as it would most likely leave a visible trace in the original work.

[0004] Solutions exist to facilitate the installation process of sheet material panels. To facilitate this coupling or joining, one proposed solution is to use an additional coupling plate. This coupling plate acts as an intermediate plate between a pair of panels to be joined. A disadvantage of using this additional coupling plate is that it can also increase the complexity and / or duration of the coupling process since an additional component is present. Another disadvantage is that the coupling plate requires additional material. Furthermore, water, for example rainwater, can pass through the joint between panels in a coupled state. Thus, water can penetrate the space behind the panels, which can damage objects located in that space.For example, rainwater can damage furniture or appliances stored in an attic behind one or more roof panels. Another panel development involved, in order to provide a supposedly clean-looking panel, evolving the coupling profiles along the longitudinal direction of the panel so that said coupling profiles have a relatively wide profile. These wide coupling profiles, however, require a relatively large amount of material. This is disadvantageous from an economic and sustainability perspective.

[0005] Furthermore, known panels are often configured so that, during the installation of said panels on a building structure, for example a roof structure, a construction worker must start at the lowest point and from there climb onto the structure, such as a roof, in order to connect said panels to other panels, in particular panels in a lateral direction. This is particularly disadvantageous, since said panel configuration implies that the construction worker must stand and / or position themselves on the previously installed panel. The weight of the worker on said panel can damage the panel.

[0006] A first objective is to provide a panel that can reduce water leakage between adjacent panels in a coupled state.

[0007] A second objective is to provide a panel with a simpler level of assembly of a panel and / or a system comprising one or more panels.

[0008] A third objective of the invention is to provide a panel for improved maintenance.

[0009] The invention provides for this purpose a panel, in particular a roof panel, comprising a panel base having a top surface and a surface lower. When the panel is mounted on a building structure, the upper surface faces the external environment. It is conceivable that the upper surface may be at least partially covered with a protective layer. This can reduce wear and / or abrasion of the panel base during use. The panel further comprises a first panel side and a second panel side, wherein the first and second panel sides are located on opposite sides of the panel base. The first panel side has a first coupling profile. The second panel side has a second coupling profile intended to interlock with the first coupling profile of an adjacent panel, specifically to interlock with it. This interlocking can provide a stable system of interconnected panels. Furthermore,The interlocking design allows a panel to be removed after a certain period, for example, for maintenance or replacement of a particular panel. The panel further comprises a third and a fourth panel side, in which the third and fourth panel sides are located on opposite sides of the panel base. The fourth panel side includes a receiving structure, comprising an upper and a lower limit portion. A first end portion of the upper limit portion is connected to the panel base. This contributes to the mutual stability of the panel and the receiving structure. The upper limit portion extends at least partially in one direction, specifically from the first end portion of the upper limit portion, towards the third panel side, and a lower limit portion...wherein a first end portion of the lower boundary portion is connected to a portion of the upper boundary portion at a distance from the first end portion of the upper boundary portion, wherein the lower boundary portion extends at least partially in a direction opposite to the third panel side, in particular from the first end portion of the lower boundary portion, wherein at least a portion of the upper boundary portion and at least a portion of the lower boundary portion mutually define at least a portion of at least one receiving space to receive at least a portion of a third panel side, and preferably at least a portion of a panel base, of an adjacent panel. Said fourth-panel-side receiving structure also allows panels to be connected in a direction other than, in particular perpendicular to,the coupling direction of the first coupling profile and / or the second coupling profile. This allows for the efficient coverage of a relatively large area, for example, a roof area. Furthermore, the receiving structure allows the first panel intended for mounting on a building structure to be mounted in an upper part of that building structure. such as a roof structure, instead of being mounted in a lower section. This can prevent a construction worker from having to stand on a previously installed panel. In addition, the receiving structure is positioned relative to the panel base in such a way as to prevent water, especially rainwater, from leaking between adjacent panels in a mated state.

[0010] In a particular embodiment, the panel base and at least one of the first coupling profile and / or the second coupling profile and / or at least a portion of the receiving structure, in particular the upper boundary portion and optionally the lower boundary portion, are formed at least partially, in particular unfolded, from a single sheet. Therefore, there is no structural weakness due to weld seams. Furthermore, a single-sheet configuration can simplify the production process of said panel.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment, the panel is a roof panel, a wall panel, or a facade panel. Optionally, the panel is at least partially made of metal, in particular zinc, aluminum, copper, lead, or steel. It is conceivable that a panel may be coupled to a panel at least partially made of a different metal. This metal contributes to the rigidity and / or robustness of the panel. This is particularly advantageous when the panel is installed in an outdoor environment, which may be subject to specific wind and / or water conditions. Preferably, the panel is at least partially made of zinc, preferably zinc-titanium. It is also conceivable that the panel may be at least partially made of aluminum, copper, (coated) steel, or similar materials.

[0012] Preferably, the third panel side is substantially continuous, in particular flat and / or straight, preferably without protrusions, so that the third panel side is configured to be at least partially housed within a portion of at least one receiving space of a receiving structure for an adjacent panel. The third panel side is connected to each of the first and second panel sides, wherein the third panel side preferably forms a substantially straight connection, in particular substantially perpendicular and substantially straight, between the first and second panel sides. At least a portion of the third panel side, in particular the entire third panel side, typically extends substantially orthogonally with respect to the first and / or second panel sides.In all cases, if protrusions or undulating patterns are present on the side of the third panel, it is preferable that these not exceed the size of the receiving area, at least in the longitudinal direction. This configuration of the third panel side allows the third panel side to be housed at least partially within a portion of the receiving area. In a mode of... In this particular design, the third panel side is flat, meaning it does not protrude perpendicularly from the panel base. This flat third panel side allows at least a portion of it to fit within the receiving space of the fourth panel side's receiving structure in an adjacent panel, especially in a direction of height relative to the panel base where that direction is substantially perpendicular to the panel base.

[0013] In one embodiment, the width of the upper and / or lower boundary portion substantially corresponds to the width of the panel base, preferably where the width is a dimension of a lateral direction of the panel base. It is conceivable that the upper and lower boundary portions do not extend beyond the width of the panel base. This allows for the easy positioning of multiple panels adjacent to one another, particularly where said multiple panels are interconnected. Said interconnected panels can cover a surface, such as a roof surface.

[0014] It is conceivable that the lower limit portion extends at least partially beyond the panel base, in particular on the fourth side of the panel, preferably by at least 1 cm, more preferably by at least 2 cm, and in particular by at least 4 cm. This allows the lower limit portion to be mounted on a building structure, such as a roof structure. This is particularly advantageous when mounting the panel, especially the lower limit portion, onto the building structure. The portion of the lower limit portion that extends beyond the panel base is relatively easily accessible to a construction worker to enable them to mount said portion onto the building structure, particularly compared to a configuration in which the lower limit portion does not extend at least partially beyond the panel base.Furthermore, this portion of the lower boundary section is connected to the panel. This can contribute to a simpler assembly process. The portion of the lower boundary section extending beyond the fourth side, specifically its upper surface, is exposed, at least in a top view when looking towards the upper surface of the panel base.

[0015] Optionally, the lower boundary portion includes at least one mounting surface for mounting the panel on a roof structure, wherein the mounting surface preferably includes at least one fixing slot, preferably wherein the mounting surface is formed at least partially by the portion of the lower boundary portion extending beyond the fourth side of the panel. This fixing slot allows the lower boundary portion to be mounted on a building structure. This can contribute to a stable connection between the panel and the structure. of construction. In particular, the fixing slot is arranged on the portion of the lower boundary section that extends beyond the panel base. As mentioned previously, this allows a construction worker relatively easy access to said lower boundary section in order to mount said section onto the building structure. Said fixing slot is preferably configured to accommodate a fastener, such as a screw or nail.

[0016] It is conceivable that the mounting surface may have at least one recessed portion and / or be formed by it, in which preferably at least one fixing slot is arranged within the recessed portion. This recessed portion is preferably located at a surface of the lower boundary portion oriented towards the lower surface of the panel base. This recessed portion accommodates the upper part of a fastener, such as a nail or screw head. This recessed portion can therefore prevent this upper part from coming into at least partial contact with a surface of the upper boundary portion oriented towards the lower boundary portion. It is thus possible to prevent this surface of the upper boundary portion from being subjected to wear due to such contact.

[0017] In a particular embodiment, the receiving structure comprises at least one stop element for restricting sliding movement of the third side of an adjacent panel in at least one direction, at least in a state where two adjacent panels are coupled. It may also be understood that the stop element may, in particular, be a restriction element, a containment element, a limiting element, or a stopping element. This stop element may also be formed by one or more projecting elements, preferably vertical, within the receiving space, preferably arranged on the upper and / or lower boundary.It is also conceivable that the thickness of the upper and / or lower boundary portion increases locally, at least partially, such that the third side of the panel abuts against this portion of the upper and / or lower boundary portion. In a particular embodiment, a connection between the upper and lower boundary portions forms at least one abutment element and / or a buttress element in which the upper and lower boundary portions are connected by at least one abutment element. Typically, this abutment element is at least partially curved. It is also conceivable that this abutment element includes at least one linear portion. Preferably, this abutment element has a thickness substantially equal to the thickness of the upper and / or lower boundary portion, preferably the thickness of a single sheet.The said stop element may be fitted with a protective layer. This protective layer may... reduce wear on said stop element due to contact between said stop element and a third side of panel of an adjacent panel.

[0018] In another embodiment, the upper limit portion and / or the lower limit portion extend in a direction preferably substantially parallel to the panel base. Preferably, the receiving structure, in particular the upper limit portion and the lower limit portion, is S-shaped. This makes it possible to define a receiving space of substantially uniform height along a longitudinal direction of the panel base, which helps to properly accommodate at least a portion of the third side of the panel and at least a portion of the panel base within at least a portion of the receiving space of a receiving structure of an adjacent panel.

[0019] It is conceivable that the third side of the panel is configured to be housed at least partially within at least a portion of at least one receiving space of a receiving structure of an adjacent panel, by at least one sliding, translational, and / or linear movement of the panel in a direction substantially parallel to the panel base of the adjacent panel. This housing helps to interconnect several panels. The third side of an adjacent panel can slide within said receiving space. It is conceivable that said sliding movement is a translational or linear movement. It is also conceivable that said sliding movement is at least partially a curved movement. This is particularly advantageous in cases where a construction worker has limited available space, such that a fully linear or translational movement is not possible.

[0020] Typically, in a state where two adjacent panels are coupled, at least a portion of a panel base is housed within the receiving structure of an adjacent panel, wherein an upper surface of the panel base is oriented towards a lower surface of the upper boundary portion of the adjacent panel, and wherein a lower surface of the panel base is oriented towards an upper surface of the lower boundary portion of the adjacent panel. Optionally, at least a portion of the panel base is enclosed, preferably directly enclosed, between the upper boundary portion and the lower boundary portion of the adjacent panel.

[0021] It is conceivable that the first coupling profile comprises at least one vertical edge including a plurality of locking elements, wherein at least one of the locking elements is preferably at least partially formed by a boss, preferably wherein said vertical edge, in particular a height of the vertical edge, extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to an upper surface of the panel base. Said locking element contributes The first coupling profile of the panel is mutually locked to a second coupling profile of an adjacent panel. Preferably, the mutual distance between adjacent locking elements is in the range of 1 cm to 8 cm, preferably 3 cm to 6 cm, and more preferably approximately 5 cm. These locking elements are positioned at distinct locations relative to one another. Surprisingly, it has been found that arranging a plurality of locking elements increases the reusability of the panels. In particular, panel separation can be facilitated without the risk of unintentional separation. A continuous (first) coupling profile was considered to potentially provide too much friction, thus complicating the separation of the connection.It can be seen that the vertical edge of the first coupling profile alone does not provide for coupling, but is simply received in the downward recess of the second coupling profile, if it is applied.

[0022] It is also conceivable that the plurality of locking elements form a continuous locking element, in which said continuous locking element extends at least partially along the first coupling profile.

[0023] Preferably, the locking elements are located on a surface of at least one vertical edge oriented towards the second coupling profile, preferably in which the locking elements are inclined downwards in a direction towards the upper surface of the panel base. This downward inclination of the locking elements contributes to a smooth coupling of the first coupling profile and the second coupling profile of an adjacent panel. It is also conceivable that a locking element may be at least partially formed by a groove, in particular a flexible groove.

[0024] In a particular embodiment, the second coupling profile comprises a vertical edge connected to the panel base, wherein the vertical edge includes at least one downward recess, preferably in which the first vertical edge extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the panel base, wherein the at least one downward recess is configured to house at least partially a vertical edge of the first coupling profile of an adjacent panel. This housing contributes to the interconnection of the adjacent panels. Preferably, the second coupling profile further comprises at least one locking element, arranged at least partially inside the at least one downward recess, configured to cooperate with at least one locking element of the first coupling profile of an adjacent panel. This cooperation allows for the mutual interlocking of adjacent panels.

[0025] Preferably, the vertical edge of the first coupling profile is a folded vertical edge and / or in which the vertical edge of the second coupling profile is a The vertical edge is folded. These folding movements are relatively easy to perform. Folding can therefore reduce the complexity and / or time required in the panel production process. Furthermore, this folded vertical edge can increase its elasticity. This elasticity can contribute to a smooth interlocking between a first mating profile and a second mating profile of an adjacent panel.

[0026] In one embodiment, at least one locking element is an elastic locking element, in particular a flap, wherein the elastic locking element is configured to elastically engage with at least one locking element of the first coupling profile of an adjacent panel. When the second coupling profile is coupled with the first coupling profile of an adjacent panel, at least a portion of at least one locking element comes into contact with at least a portion of said elastic locking element. The elastic characteristic of the elastic locking element ensures relatively smooth coupling of the second coupling profile and the first coupling profile of an adjacent panel.

[0027] Preferably, at least one locking element, preferably continuous, extends to a distance, preferably 7 cm, more preferably 5 cm, and even more preferably 3 cm, from the side of the fourth panel. Optionally, an end portion, particularly near the fourth panel side, of the second coupling profile is devoid of at least one locking element. Typically, the second coupling profile includes, preferably only, a vertical edge with a downward recess, near the fourth panel side. This allows the second coupling profile, particularly the downward recess, to accommodate at least a portion of a second coupling profile of an adjacent panel in a state where two adjacent panels are coupled.

[0028] In a particular embodiment, the vertical edge is formed by an inner edge portion and an outer edge portion, wherein the inner edge portion and the outer edge portion are preferably parallel, at a mutual distance from each other forming at least one downward recess. It is conceivable that the inner edge portion and the outer edge portion are connected, in particular that a portion, especially an end portion, of the inner edge portion at a distance from the panel base is connected to a first end portion of the outer edge portion. Optionally, a connection between the inner edge portion and the outer edge portion forms at least a second stop element. It is conceivable that said second stop element is at least partially curved. It is also It is conceivable that said second stop element includes at least one linear portion. Said second stop element is configured to restrict sliding movement of the first coupling profile of an adjacent panel in at least one direction, at least in a state where two adjacent panels are coupled.

[0029] It is conceivable that at least one counter-locking element is connected to the outer edge portion, in which the at least one counter-locking element extends in a substantially vertical direction downwards into at least one recess. This allows the counter-locking element to cooperate with at least one locking element of the first coupling profile of an adjacent panel. Preferably, the counter-locking element extends at least partially downwards into at least one recess. Typically, the counter-locking element extends to at least 1 / 4 of the depth of the recess downwards, preferably at least 1 / 3 of the depth, more preferably at least 1 / 2 of the depth, and most preferably at least 2 / 3 of the depth.

[0030] This allows for a spring-loaded and / or snap-fit ​​connection between the first and second coupling profiles, particularly when the locking element is an elastic locking element. The "click" indicates that the locking element and the locking elements are mutually interlocked. It is conceivable that the locking element is connected to a portion, particularly a second end portion, of the outer edge portion oriented opposite to the first end portion of the outer edge portion to the inner edge portion.

[0031] Optionally, the width of the downward recess at a portion, particularly an end portion, of the second coupling profile near the fourth panel side is greater than the width of the downward recess at a portion, particularly an end portion, of the second coupling profile near the third panel side. It is conceivable that an inner edge portion and an outer edge portion diverge from each other near the fourth panel side, such that the width of the downward recess increases locally. Preferably, the outer edge portion extends in a direction away from the inner edge portion near the fourth panel side. This allows the second coupling profile, particularly the downward recess, to accommodate at least a portion of a second coupling profile of an adjacent panel in a state where two adjacent panels are coupled.

[0032] In one embodiment, the inner edge portion, the outer edge portion, and the locking element are formed from a single sheet. There is no Therefore, there is no structural weakness due to the weld seams. Typically, the outer edge portion is folded towards the inner edge portion, and the interlocking element is folded towards the outer edge portion, so that the interlocking element extends in a direction substantially parallel to the outer edge portion. These folding movements are relatively easy to perform. Bending can therefore reduce the complexity and / or time required for the panel production process. It is conceivable that at least one interlocking element forms an angle with the outer edge. It is also conceivable that the panel base, the inner edge portion, the outer edge portion, and / or the interlocking element are substantially parallel to each other, and in particular, at a mutual distance from each other.A mutual distance between the inner edge portion and the outer edge portion can be substantially uniform along a height from the recess downwards and / or from the vertical edge of the second profile. This allows the recess to be sufficiently large along said height to accommodate a first coupling profile of an adjacent panel.

[0033] In a particular embodiment, the first and / or second coupling profiles extend along the entire length of the panel base. Typically, the first and / or second coupling profiles extend in a longitudinal direction along the panel base, in which, preferably, the first and / or second coupling profiles are configured to be coupled to a panel located in a lateral direction along the panel, in particular a panel on the right and / or left side. This contributes to uniform interlocking between adjacent panels along the entire length of the panel base, which can increase the stability of the interconnected panels.Furthermore, this improves the aesthetics of the interconnected panels, because from a distance it appears that the first and / or second coupling profile extends over a length of more than one panel without interruption.

[0034] It is conceivable that the first coupling profile is formed by a single sheet, in which the thickness of the first coupling profile is substantially equal to the thickness of the single sheet. The first coupling profile, in particular the vertical edge, preferably has a thickness in the range of 0.05 cm to 0.35 cm, in particular in the range of 0.1 cm to 0.25 cm.

[0035] Typically, in a state where two adjacent panels are joined, the first joining profile and the second joining profile have a width in the range of 0.1 cm to 0.75 cm, preferably in the range of 0.25 cm to 0.5 cm. It is conceivable that the downward recess has a width in the range of 0.1 cm to 0.75 cm, preferably in the range of 0.25 cm to 0.5 cm. The first profile The coupling profile and the second coupling profile therefore have a relatively small thickness when coupled. This can reduce the amount of sheet material needed to manufacture the panel. Furthermore, this contributes to the panel's aesthetic appeal, giving it an original, handcrafted look without the drawbacks such as reduced recyclability.

[0036] Preferably, the height of the first coupling profile, in particular its vertical edge, is within a range of 2 cm to 5 cm, preferably approximately 3 cm, and the height of the second coupling profile, in particular its vertical edge, is within a range of 2 cm to 5 cm, preferably approximately 3 cm, and the height of the second coupling profile, in particular its vertical edge, preferably exceeds the height of the first coupling profile, in particular its vertical edge. This allows the second coupling profile, in particular its vertical edge or downward recess, to accommodate the first coupling profile, in particular its vertical edge.

[0037] Typically, at least a portion of the base panel, at least a portion of the upper boundary portion, and / or at least a portion of the lower boundary portion overlap at least partially. This overlap may allow for a tight connection between adjacent panels, so that the intermediate space between adjacent panels can be minimized.

[0038] The invention further relates to a covering, in particular a roof covering, in which the covering comprises a plurality of interconnected panels. This plurality of interconnected panels can cover a roof surface. The plurality of panels can be mounted on a roof structure. The plurality of panels can cover a relatively large surface, for example, the roof surface of a building, such as a house.

[0039] The invention also relates to a roofing system for covering a roof surface. Said roofing system comprises a plurality of panels according to the present invention for covering at least one roof surface, wherein the panels are interconnected, and wherein at least a portion, preferably each, of the panels is mounted on a roof structure. The roofing system further comprises a ridge cladding structure for mounting on a roof ridge, such as a ridge beam. The ridge cladding structure comprises a mounting base for mounting the ridge cladding structure on a roof ridge, in particular a ridge beam. The ridge cladding structure further comprises at least two coupling structures connected to the mounting base, wherein the at least two coupling structures are located on different sides, preferably opposite sides, of the mounting base.The said coupling structure may be a second coupling profile as referred to throughout this document. The roofing system further comprises at least two ridge transition structures to provide a coupling between the ridge cladding structure and at least one of the plurality of panels. The ridge transition structure includes at least one connecting portion, in which a first end of the connecting portion is configured to connect the ridge transition structure to at least one of the at least two coupling structures of the ridge cladding structure, and in which at least a second end of the connecting portion extends towards the roof surface intended to be covered by the panels. It is conceivable that the first end of the connecting portion and the second end of the connecting portion form an angle with respect to each other, in which said angle may depend, among other things, on the slope of the roof structure and / or the roof surface.It is conceivable that the second end of the connecting section may be inclined relative to the first end of the connecting section. The ridge transition structure further includes a receiving structure. The receiving structure comprises an upper boundary section, in which a first end portion of the upper boundary section is connected to the second end of the connecting section extending towards the roof surface to be covered. Preferably, the upper boundary section extends at least partially in one direction, specifically from the first end portion of the upper boundary section, towards the third panel side of an adjacent panel.The receiving structure further includes a lower boundary portion, in which a first end portion of the lower boundary portion is connected to a portion of the upper boundary portion at a distance from the first end portion of the upper boundary portion. Preferably, the lower boundary portion extends at least partially in a direction opposite to the third panel side, particularly from the first end portion of the lower boundary portion. Typically, at least a portion of the upper boundary portion and at least a portion of the lower boundary portion mutually define at least a portion of at least one receiving space to receive at least a portion of a third panel side, and preferably at least a portion of a panel base, of at least one of the plurality of panels.

[0040] The receiving structure of the connecting part comprises one or more additional features depending on the receiving structure as defined with respect to the panel according to the invention. Those skilled in the art will readily understand that the provision of these aspects related to the receiving structure exhibits the same dependency as that disclosed with respect to the panel.

[0041] It is also conceivable that the roofing system may include at least one gutter, preferably a concealed gutter. This gutter comprises at least one panel base and at least two vertical edges, preferably located on opposite sides of at least one panel base. Said vertical edges extend at least partially towards each other. It is also conceivable that said vertical edges extend in a direction of height from the panel base, in which said direction of height is substantially parallel to the panel base. Said vertical edge may include at least one projecting element, in which said projecting element extends in a direction towards another vertical edge. The gutter may be U-shaped or C-shaped. The gutter is preferably connected to at least one of the plurality of panels, preferably interconnected. Typically, one, preferably one, side, preferably a longitudinal side, of the gutter is connected to said at least one of the plurality of panels. Said gutter is configured to discharge water, in particular rainwater, to a second environment.The base of the gutter panel can be fitted with a protective layer.

[0042] The present invention will be explained in more detail below on the basis of the non-limiting embodiments shown in the following figures, in which:

[0043] Fig. 1 represents a schematic overview of the panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figures 2a-2b represent a side view of a panel and a detailed side view of a receiving structure according to a particular embodiment.

[0045] Figures 3a-3b represent a top view of the panel and a detailed view of a mounting surface.

[0046] Figures 4a-4c represent a schematic side view and a detailed side view of a first coupling profile and a second coupling profile of the panel.

[0047] Fig. 5 represents a schematic overview of a roofing system.

[0048] Figure 1 shows a schematic overview of a panel 100. Panel 100 comprises a panel base 101. The panel base 101 has an upper surface 102 and a lower surface (not shown in [Fig. 1]). Panel 100 further comprises a first panel side 103 and a second panel side 105. The first panel side 103 and the second panel side 105 are located on opposite sides of the panel base 101. The first panel side 103 has a first coupling profile 104. The second panel side 105 has a second coupling profile 106. The second coupling profile 106 is configured to interlock with a first coupling profile 104 of an adjacent panel (not shown). This interlocking allows adjacent panels to be interconnected so that a surface, such as a roof surface (not shown), can be covered. Panel 100 further includes a third side of panel 107 and a fourth side of panel 108, wherein the third panel side 107 and the fourth panel side 108 are located on opposite sides of the panel base 101. The third panel side 107 is substantially continuous, in particular flat and / or straight. The fourth panel side 108 includes a receiving structure 109 for receiving at least a portion of a third panel side 107 and at least a portion of a panel base 101 from an adjacent panel. Thus, the receiving structure 109 allows an adjacent panel to partially overlap the panel 100, thereby helping to cover a surface, in particular a roof surface. In this particular embodiment, the panel base, the first coupling profile, the second coupling profile, and at least a portion of the receiving structure are formed at least partially from a single sheet. Consequently, no structural weakness due to weld seams will occur.

[0049] Figure 2A shows a side view of a panel 100. The panel 100 comprises a third panel side 107 and a fourth panel side 108, wherein the fourth panel side 108 comprises a receiving structure 109. Figure 2B shows a detailed overview of the receiving structure 109. The receiving structure 109 comprises an upper boundary portion 110 and a lower boundary portion 112. A first end portion 111 of the upper boundary portion 110 is connected to the panel base 101. The lower boundary portion 112 is connected to the upper boundary portion 110 at a first end portion of the lower boundary portion 113. The panel base 101 and at least part of the receiving structure 109, in particular the upper boundary portion 110 and the lower boundary portion 112, are formed at least partially from a sheet unique.Thus, the presence of weld beads can be avoided, contributing to the overall structural integrity of the panel. The upper boundary section 110 is a folded boundary section, in which it is bent towards the panel base 101. The lower boundary section 112 is also a folded boundary section, in which it is bent towards the upper (folded) boundary section 110. This folding facilitates the production process of the panel 100. Due to the folding, the lower surface (not shown) of the panel base 101 and the upper boundary section 110 are at a distance from each other. At least a portion of the base panel 101, at least a portion of the upper boundary section 110, and / or at least a portion of the lower boundary section 112 overlap, at least partially.In this particular embodiment, the upper limit portion 110 is located at least partially below a portion of the panel base 101, and a portion of the lower limit portion 112 is located below at least a portion of the upper limit portion 110. In this embodiment of. In particular, the receiving structure 109, especially the upper limit part 110 and the lower limit part 112, is S-shaped.

[0050] At least a portion of the upper limit portion 110 and at least a portion of the lower limit portion 112 mutually define at least a portion of at least one receiving space 114 to receive at least a portion of a third panel side 107 and at least a portion of a panel base 101 of an adjacent panel. The third panel side 107 is substantially continuous, in particular flat and / or straight, so that the third panel side 107 can be housed at least partially within at least one receiving space 114 of a receiving structure 109 of an adjacent panel by means, for example, of a sliding movement of the panel 100 in a direction substantially parallel to the panel base 101 of the adjacent panel. In order to restrict said sliding movement, in this embodiment, the connection between the upper limit portion 110 and the lower limit portion 112 forms a stop element 119.The stop element 119 can restrict sliding movement of the third side of panel 107 of an adjacent panel. In this particular embodiment, the upper limit portion 110 and the lower limit portion 112 extend in a direction substantially parallel to the panel base 101. In a state where two adjacent panels are coupled, at least a portion of the panel base 101 is enclosed between the upper limit portion 110 and the lower limit portion 112 of the adjacent panel.

[0051] Figure 3A is a top view of the panel 100 shown. The fourth side 108 of the panel 100 includes a receiving structure 109. The lower boundary portion 112 of the receiving structure 109 extends at least partially beyond the panel base 101, specifically the fourth side of the panel 108. This lower boundary portion 112 includes at least one mounting surface 115, which is shown in more detail in Figure 3B. The mounting surface 115 allows the panel 100 to be mounted on a building structure, such as a roof structure. This mounting therefore contributes to the positioning of a panel 100, which is particularly advantageous when several panels are connected together. A portion of the lower boundary portion 112 extending beyond the panel base 101 has at least one recessed portion (116). In this particular embodiment, the recessed part 116 is circular in shape.The mounting surface 115 can be formed by the recessed portion 116. The mounting surface includes at least one fixing slot 117. Said fixing slot 117 can be formed by an opening for receiving a fastener, such as a screw or a nail. In this embodiment, the fixing slot 117 is arranged in the recessed portion 116.

[0052] Figure 4A represents a schematic view of a panel 100 comprising a first panel side 103 having a first coupling profile 104 and a second panel side 105 having a second coupling profile 106. The first coupling profile 104 and the second coupling profile 105 extend over the entire length of the panel base 101.

[0053] Figure 4B shows a detailed overview of a second coupling profile 106 of the panel 100. The second coupling profile 106 comprises a vertical edge 122 and at least one locking element 126. Said vertical edge 122 is connected to the panel base 101. The vertical edge 122 is formed by an inner edge portion 123 and an outer edge portion 124, in which the inner edge portion 123 and the outer edge portion 124 are at a mutual distance from each other, forming at least one downward recess 125. Said downward recess 125 is configured to house at least partially a vertical edge 121 of the first coupling profile 104 of an adjacent panel.

[0054] At least one counter-locking element 126 is arranged at least partially inside at least one downward recess 125. In this embodiment, the counter-locking element 126 extends to at least 1 / 4 of a depth of the downward recess 125, preferably at least 1 / 3 of the depth. The counter-locking element 126 is connected to the outer edge part 124, in which the counter-locking element 126 extends in a substantially vertical direction in the at least one downward recess 125. In this embodiment, the inner edge part 123, the outer edge part 124 and the counter-locking element 126 are substantially parallel to each other, and in particular at a mutual distance, to each other.The counter-locking element 126 is configured to cooperate with at least one locking element 120 of the first coupling profile 104 of an adjacent panel, so that the counter-locking element 126 and the locking elements 120 form a snap-fit ​​or spring-loaded connection. The "click" indicates that the counter-locking element 126 and the locking elements 120 are mutually interlocked.

[0055] The locking element 125 of the second coupling profile 106 extends continuously to a distance from the fourth panel side. This allows the second coupling profile 106, in particular the downward recess 125, to accommodate at least a portion of a second coupling profile 106 of an adjacent panel in a state where two adjacent panels are coupled. Furthermore, the width of the downward recess 125 at a portion of the second coupling profile 106 near the fourth panel side 108 is greater than the width of the downward recess 125 at a portion of the second coupling profile near the third panel side 107. This contributes also to allow the second coupling profile 106, in particular the downward recess 125, to house at least part of a second coupling profile 106 of an adjacent panel in a state where two adjacent panels are coupled.

[0056] In this particular embodiment, the inner edge portion 123, the outer edge portion 124, and the locking element 126 are formed from a single sheet. The outer edge portion 124 is folded towards the inner edge portion 123, and the locking element 126 is folded towards the outer edge portion 124, such that the locking element 126 extends in a direction substantially parallel to the outer edge portion 124.

[0057] Figure 4C shows a detailed overview of a first coupling profile 104 of the panel 100. The first coupling profile 104 includes at least one vertical edge 121. A height of the vertical edge 121 extends in a direction substantially orthogonal to an upper surface 102 of the panel base 101. Said vertical edge 121 includes a plurality of locking elements 120 (see also the top view shown in Figure 3A). The locking elements 120 are formed at least partially by a boss. Said locking elements 120 are inclined downwards in a direction towards the upper surface 102 of the panel base 101. This can contribute to a smooth coupling movement of the first coupling profile 104.During the coupling movement of two adjacent panels, at least a portion of the locking elements 120 comes into at least partial contact with the counter-locking element 126 of the second coupling profile 106 of an adjacent panel. The downward-inclined configuration of the locking elements 120 contributes to the smooth entry of the first coupling profile 104 into the downward recess 125 of the second coupling profile 106 of an adjacent panel. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the counter-locking element 126 is an elastic counter-locking element that can elastically engage with at least one locking element 120 of the first coupling profile 104 of an adjacent panel, thus also contributing to a smooth coupling movement.

[0058] Figure 5 shows a schematic overview of a roofing system 130. This roofing system 130 comprises multiple panels 100. These panels 100 cover a roof area, so that a space, such as an attic, can be protected, for example, from sunlight and / or water. The panels 100 are interconnected so as to cover a relatively large roof area. At least some of the panels 100 are mounted on a roof structure that contributes to the stability of the roofing system 130. The system The roof 130 also includes a ridge cladding structure 133. The ridge cladding structure 133 includes a mounting base 135 and at least two coupling structures 136. The mounting base 135 is configured to mount the ridge cladding structure 133 at least partially onto a roof ridge 134. The mounting base 135 may be partially formed by a panel base, in particular a plate. The mounting base 135 can be mounted on the roof ridge 134. The coupling structures 136 are connected to the mounting base 135. In this particular embodiment, the coupling structures 136 are located on opposite sides of the mounting base 135. A coupling structure 136 can be connected to a ridge transition structure 137. Said ridge transition structure 137 is configured to provide a coupling between the ridge cladding structure 133 and at least one of the multiple panels 100.The ridge transition structure 137 comprises at least one connecting portion 138 and a receiving structure 141. The connecting portion 138 comprises a first end 139 and a second end 140. The first end 139 of the connecting portion 138 is configured to connect the ridge transition structure 137 to at least one coupling structure 136 of the ridge cladding structure 133. The second end 140 of the connecting portion 138 extends towards the roof surface intended to be covered by the panels. In this embodiment, the first end 139 and the second end 140 form an angle with respect to each other, the angle of which may depend, among other things, on the slope of the roof structure and / or the roof surface. The receiving structure 141 is connected to the second end 140 of the connecting portion 138.In this particular embodiment, it can be understood that the receiving structure 141 is a receiving structure 109 as described throughout this document, for example as described by Figures 1, 2A-2B and / or 3A-3B. The receiving space 146 of the receiving structure 141 is configured to receive at least a portion of a third panel side, and preferably at least a portion of a panel base, of at least one of the multiple panels.

[0059] The inventive concepts described above are illustrated by several illustrative embodiments. It is conceivable that individual inventive concepts, including inventive details, can be applied without also applying other details of the described example. It is not necessary to give examples of all conceivable combinations of the inventive concepts described above, since those skilled in the art will understand that many inventive concepts can be (re)combined to achieve a specific application and / or an alternative embodiment.

[0060] The ordinal numbers used in this document, such as "first", "second", and "third", are used for identification purposes only. The use of expressions such as a "second" component therefore does not require not necessarily the co-presence of a "first" component. By "complementary" or "cooperative" components, we mean that these components are configured to cooperate with each other. However, for this purpose, these components do not necessarily have to have complementary shapes. It should be understood that the verb "to understand" and its conjugated forms used in this patent publication mean not only "to understand," but also encompass the expressions "to contain," "to be substantially made of," "formed by," and their conjugated forms.

Claims

1. Demands Panel, in particular roof panel, comprising: - a panel base having a top surface and a bottom surface, - a first panel side and a second panel side, wherein the first panel side and the second panel side are located on opposite sides of the panel base, wherein the first panel side is provided with a first coupling profile, and wherein the second panel side is provided with a second coupling profile to interlock with a first coupling profile of an adjacent panel, - a third panel side and a fourth panel side, wherein the third panel side and the fourth panel side are located on opposite sides of the panel base, wherein the fourth panel side comprises a receiving structure, comprising: • an upper boundary portion, wherein a first end portion of the upper boundary portion is connected to the panel base, wherein the upper boundary portion extends at least partially in one direction, in particular from the first end portion of the upper boundary portion, towards the third panel side, and • a lower boundary portion, wherein a first end portion of the lower boundary portion is connected to a portion of the upper boundary portion at a distance from the first end portion of the upper boundary portion, wherein the lower boundary portion extends at least partially in a direction opposite to the third panel side, in particular to the first end portion of the lower boundary portion, • wherein at least a portion of the upper boundary portion and at least a portion of the lower boundary portion mutually define at least a portion of at least one receiving space to receive at least a portion of a third panel side, and preferably at least a portion of a panel base, of an adjacent panel.

2. Panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the panel base and at least one of the first coupling profile and / or the second coupling profile and / or at least part of the receiving structure, in particular the upper boundary part and optionally the lower boundary part, are formed at least partially from a single sheet.

3. Panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the panel is at least partially made of metal, in particular zinc, aluminum, copper, lead or steel.

4. Panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the third side of the panel is substantially continuous, in particular flat and / or straight, preferably devoid of projections, so that the third side of the panel is configured to be at least partially housed within a portion of at least one receiving space of a receiving structure for an adjacent panel.

5. Panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a width of the upper limit part and / or of the lower limit part corresponds substantially to a width of the panel base.

6. Panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lower boundary portion extends at least partially beyond the panel base, in particular the fourth side of the panel, preferably by at least 1 cm, more preferably by at least 2 cm, in particular by at least 4 cm.

7. Panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lower boundary portion comprises at least one mounting surface for mounting the panel on a roof structure, wherein the mounting surface preferably comprises at least one fixing slot, preferably wherein the mounting surface is formed at least partially by the portion of the lower boundary portion extending beyond the fourth side of the panel.

8. Panel according to claim 7, wherein the mounting surface has at least one recessed portion and / or is formed by it, wherein preferably at least one fixing slot is arranged in the at least one recessed portion.

9. A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the receiving structure comprises at least one stop element for restricting sliding movement of the third side of the panel of an adjacent panel in at least one direction, at least in a state where two adjacent panels are coupled.

10. Panel according to claim 9, wherein a connection between the upper limit part and the lower limit part forms at least one stop element and / or wherein the upper limit part and the lower limit part are connected by at least one stop element.

11. Panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the upper limit portion and / or the lower limit portion extend in a direction preferably substantially parallel to the base of the panel.

12. Panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the third panel side of the panel is configured to be housed at least partially inside at least a part of at least one receiving space of a receiving structure of an adjacent panel, by at least one sliding, translational and / or linear movement of the panel in a direction substantially parallel to the panel base of the adjacent panel.

13. Panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, in a state where two adjacent panels are coupled, at least a portion of a panel base is housed within the receiving structure of an adjacent panel, wherein an upper surface of the panel base is oriented towards a lower surface of the upper boundary portion of the adjacent panel, and wherein a lower surface of the panel base is oriented towards an upper surface of the lower boundary portion of the adjacent panel.

14. Panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first coupling profile and / or the second coupling profile extend over a whole length of the panel base.

15. Panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least a portion of the base panel, at least a portion of the upper boundary portion and / or at least a portion of the lower boundary portion overlap at least partially.

16. A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first coupling profile comprises at least one vertical edge comprising a plurality of locking elements, wherein at at least one of the locking elements is at least partially formed by a boss, preferably in which said vertical edge, in particular a height of the vertical edge, extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to an upper surface of the panel base.

17. Panel according to claim 16, wherein the locking elements are located on a surface of at least one vertical edge oriented towards the second coupling profile, preferably wherein the locking elements are inclined downwards in a direction towards the upper surface of the panel base.

18. Panel according to any one of claims 16 to 17, wherein a mutual distance between adjacent locking elements is in the range of 1 cm to 8 cm, preferably 3 cm to 6 cm, more preferably substantially 5 cm.

19. Panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second coupling profile comprises: - a vertical edge connected to the panel base, wherein the vertical edge comprises at least one downward recess, wherein the at least one downward recess is configured to house at least partially a vertical edge of the first coupling profile of an adjacent panel, - at least one counter-locking element, arranged at least partially inside the at least one downward recess, configured to cooperate with at least one locking element of the first coupling profile of an adjacent panel.

20. Panel according to any one of claims 16 to 18 and claim 19, wherein the vertical edge of the first coupling profile is a folded vertical edge and / or wherein the vertical edge of the second coupling profile is a folded vertical edge.

21. Panel according to any one of claims 19 and 20, wherein at least one counter-locking element is an elastic counter-locking element, in particular a flap, wherein the elastic counter-locking element is configured to elastically engage with at least one locking element of the first coupling profile of an adjacent panel.

22. Panel according to any one of claims 19 to 21, wherein at least one counter-locking element, preferably continuous, extends to a distance, preferably 7 cm, more preferably 5 cm, even more preferably 3 cm, from the side of the fourth panel.

23. Panel according to any one of claims 19 to 22, wherein a width of the downward recess at a part of the second coupling profile near the fourth side of the panel is greater than the width of the downward recess at a part of the second coupling profile near the third side of the panel.

24. Panel according to any one of claims 19 to 23, wherein the vertical edge is formed by an inner edge part and an outer edge part, wherein the inner edge part and the outer edge part are, preferably, parallel, at a mutual distance from each other forming at least one downward recess.

25. Panel according to claim 24, wherein at least one counter-locking element is connected to the outer edge portion, wherein at least one counter-locking element extends in a substantially vertical direction in at least one downward recess.

26. Panel according to any one of claims 24 to 25, wherein the inner edge part, the outer edge part and the locking element are formed from a single sheet.

27. ​​Panel according to any one of claims 24 to 26, wherein the outer edge portion is folded towards the inner edge portion, and wherein the locking element is folded towards the outer edge portion, so that the locking element extends in a direction substantially parallel to the outer edge portion.

28. Panel according to any one of claims 24 to 27, wherein the inner edge part, the outer edge part and the counter-locking element are substantially parallel to each other.

29. A panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first coupling profile is formed by a single sheet, wherein a thickness of the first coupling profile is substantially equal to a thickness of the single sheet, preferably wherein the thickness of the first coupling profile, in particularly the vertical edge, is within a range of 0.05 cm to 0.35 cm, in particular within a range of 0.1 cm to 0.25 cm.

30. Panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, in a state where two adjacent panels are coupled, the first coupling profile and the second coupling profile have a width in a range of 0.1 cm to 0.75 cm, preferably in a range of 0.25 cm to 0.5 cm.

31. Panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a height of the first coupling profile is in a range of 2 cm to 5 cm, preferably substantially 3 cm, wherein a height of the second coupling profile is in a range of 2 cm to 5 cm, preferably substantially 3 cm, wherein the height of the second profile preferably exceeds the height of the first profile.

32. Panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the panel is a roof panel, a wall panel or a facade panel.

33. Covering, in particular a roof covering, wherein the covering comprises a plurality of interconnected panels according to any one of the preceding claims.

34. A roofing system for covering a roof surface, comprising: - a plurality of panels according to any one of claims 1 to 32, for covering at least one roof surface, wherein the panels are interconnected, wherein at least some, preferably each, of the panels are mounted on a roof structure, - a ridge cladding structure for mounting on a roof ridge, such as a ridge beam, comprising: • a mounting base, for mounting the ridge cladding structure on a roof ridge, in particular a ridge beam, • at least two coupling structures connected to the mounting base, wherein the at least two coupling structures are located on different sides of the mounting base, - at least two ridge transition structures, to provide a coupling between the ridge cladding structure and at least one of the plurality of panels, comprising: • at least one connecting section, wherein a first end of the connecting section is configured to connect the ridge transition structure to at least one of the at least two coupling structures of the ridge cladding structure, and wherein at least a second end of the connecting section extends towards the roof surface intended to be covered by the panels, • a reception structure, comprising: • an upper boundary section, in which a first end portion of the upper boundary section is connected to the second end of the connecting section extending towards the roof surface to be covered, and • a lower boundary portion, in which a first end portion of the lower boundary portion is connected to a portion of the upper boundary portion at a distance from the first end portion of the upper boundary portion, in which at least a part of the upper boundary portion and at least a part of the lower boundary portion mutually define at least a part of at least one receiving space to receive at least a part of a third panel side, and preferably at least a part of a panel base, of at least one of the plurality of panels.

Images