Multi-purpose tile systems, tile coverings and tiles

Abstract

The present invention relates to a multipurpose tile system, in particular a floor tile system, comprising a plurality of multipurpose tiles, in particular floor tiles, wall tiles or ceiling tiles. The present invention also relates to a tile covering, in particular a floor covering, ceiling covering or wall covering, consisting of interconnected tiles according to the present invention. The present invention further relates to tiles for use in the multipurpose tile system according to the present invention.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a multipurpose tile system, in particular a floor tile system, comprising a plurality of multipurpose tiles, in particular floor tiles, wall tiles or ceiling tiles. The present invention also relates to a tile covering, in particular a floor covering, ceiling covering or wall covering, consisting of interconnected tiles according to the present invention. The present invention further relates to tiles for use in the multipurpose tile system according to the present invention. The present invention further relates to an installation method for installing the system according to the present invention to create a tile covering. [Background technology]

[0002] In the last decade, there has been a great progress in the market of laminates for rigid floor coverings. Various methods of installing floor panels on a subfloor are known. For example, it is known to attach floor panels to the subfloor by gluing or nailing. The disadvantages of this technique include the rather complex nature and the necessity of dismantling the floor panels in order to make subsequent modifications. In an alternative installation method, the floor panels are loosely installed on the subfloor and are mutually matched to one another by means of tongue-and-groove connections, in most cases the floor panels are also glued together at the tongue-and-groove. The floors thus obtained are also called floating parquet floorings, and have the advantages of ease of installation and the possibility of moving the entire floor surface, the latter being often convenient to undergo possible expansion and contraction phenomena. A disadvantage of floor coverings of the above mentioned kind, especially in the case of loose installation of floor panels on a subfloor, is that during the expansion and subsequent contraction of the floor, the floor panels themselves can move, which results in the formation of undesirable gaps, for example if the adhesive connection is broken. To overcome this drawback, techniques have already been conceived in which metal connecting elements are provided between the individual floor panels to hold them together. However, such connecting elements are rather expensive to produce and, moreover, providing or installing them is a time-consuming operation. Also known are floor panels with complementary connections on the opposing panel sides. These known panels are typically rectangular and have complementary angling-down connections on the long sides of the opposing panels and complementary fold-down connections on the short sides of the opposing panels. These known floor panels are installed based on the so-called folding technique, in which the long side of a first panel to be installed is first connected or inserted into the long side of a second panel of a first row that is already installed, and then the short side of the first panel is connected to the short side of a third panel of a second row that is already installed when the first panel is lowered (folded down).Such an installation fulfils the target requirement of easy installation, thereby realising a floor covering consisting of multiple parallel rows of interconnected floor panels. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT EMBODIMENT It is a first object of the present invention to provide a versatile tile system which allows tiles to be interconnected in an improved manner.

[0004] A second object of the present invention is to provide a versatile tile system that allows tiles to be interconnected and disconnected in an improved manner.

[0005] A third object of the present invention is to provide a multi-purpose tile system that allows greater freedom in installing tiles.

[0006] A fourth object of the present invention is to provide a multi-purpose tile system that allows special installation patterns, such as herringbone patterns, to be achieved in an improved manner.

[0007] A fifth object of the present invention is to provide a versatile tiling system that allows tiles to be manufactured in a relatively cost-effective manner. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] At least one of these objectives can be achieved by providing a multi-purpose fore-end system, namely: The tile, preferably each tile, At least one first side having a first connecting contour, the first connecting contour comprising: a lateral tongue extending in a direction substantially parallel to the upper side of the tile; at least one first downward flank spaced from the lateral tongue; a first side including a first connecting contour including a first downward recess formed between the lateral tongue and the first downward flank; At least one second side having a second connecting contour, the second connecting contour comprising: a downward tongue extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the upper side of the tile; at least one second downward flank spaced from the downward tongue; a second downward recess formed between the downward tongue and the downward flank; a second side including a second connecting profile including at least one second locking element, more preferably a second locking element provided on a second downward flank of the second connecting profile; At least one third side, preferably at least two third sides, having a third connecting contour, the third connecting contour being: a third recess configured to receive at least a portion of the lateral tongue of the first connecting profile of the further tile and at least a portion of the downward tongue of the further tile, the third recess being defined by an upper lip and a lower lip, the lower lip being provided with an upward locking element; a third side including a third interlocking profile including at least one third locking element, more preferably on a distal side of the lower lip facing away from the third recess and / or on a distal side of the upward locking element facing away from the third recess; a proximal side of the upward locking element of the third interlocking profile facing the third recess is at least partially, preferably entirely, inclined upward in a direction opposite the upper lip, the proximal side of the upward locking element including a third lower contact portion extending in a first direction and a third upper contact portion extending in a second direction, optionally deviating from the first direction; The first and third interlocking contours are configured such that two such tiles can interlock with each other at the first and third edges by a rotational movement, and in the interlocked state: At least a portion of the lateral tongue of the first connecting contour of the tile is inserted into a third recess of a third connecting contour of an adjacent tile; At least a portion of the upward locking element of the third connection contour is inserted into the first downward recess of the first connection contour; a proximal side of the lateral tongue opposite the first downward flank cooperates with a third upper contact portion and / or a third lower contact portion of the upward locking element of the third coupling profile; The second and third interlocking profiles are configured such that two such tiles can be interlocked with each other at the second and third edges, preferably by a folding movement and / or a vertical and / or substantially horizontal movement, and in the interlocked state: At least a portion of the downward tongue of the second interlocking contour is inserted into a third recess of a third interlocking contour of an adjacent tile; At least a portion of the upward locking element of the third connection contour is inserted into the second downward recess of the second connection contour; at least one second locking element faces and preferably cooperates with at least one third locking element to provide a vertical locking effect; A tile system in which a proximal side of the downward tongue in the second connecting profile, opposite the second downward flank, cooperates with a third lower contact portion and / or a third upper contact portion of the upward locking element in the third connecting profile.

[0009] There is (optionally) a second locking element, preferably on the second downward flank, and a third locking element, preferably on the distal side of the lower lip facing away from the third recess and / or on the distal side of the upward locking element facing away from the third recess, while at least a part of the proximal side of the upward locking element of the third connecting profile facing the third recess is inclined upwards in the direction facing away from the upper lip. One advantage of the combination of these configurations is that it makes the connection of adjacent panels rather easy while ensuring sufficient mutual (vertical) locking between the panels. The absence of a locking element at said location in combination with the so-called open groove structure may lead to unstable locking situations between the male and female connections of adjacent panels, especially in the connection between the second and third connecting profiles. The presence of the second and third locking elements described herein can additionally prevent the male coupling part of the second coupling profile from (slightly) displacing, in particular from (slightly) tilting, during use, for example towards the open space of the third recess, and therefore prevent friction between adjacent panels in the coupling state.

[0010] Typically, each tile of the tile system according to the invention comprises at least one first connection profile, at least one second connection profile and at least one third connection profile, preferably a plurality of such profiles, e.g. two third connection profiles. However, it is conceivable that at least a first tile (first tile type) comprises at least one first connection profile and at least one third connection profile, but does not have a second connection profile, and that a second tile (second tile type) comprises at least one second connection profile and at least one third connection profile, but does not have a first connection profile. Alternatively, it is conceivable, for example, that at least a first tile (first tile type) comprises at least one first connection profile and at least one second connection profile, but does not have a third connection profile, and that a second tile (second tile type) comprises at least one third connection profile, but does not have a first connection profile and / or a second connection profile. Thus, each tile of the tile system according to the invention may have at least one first interlocking contour and / or at least one second interlocking contour and / or at least one third interlocking contour. If a tile of the system according to the invention is not provided with an interlocking contour selected from the group consisting of the first interlocking contour, the second interlocking contour and the third interlocking contour, the interlocking contours missing from this tile are included in the other tiles of the system according to the invention.

[0011] Therefore, in another aspect, the present invention relates to a multipurpose tile system, in particular a floor tile system, comprising: A plurality of multi-purpose tiles, particularly floor tiles, At least one first tile (type) includes at least one first edge having a first connecting contour, the first connecting contour being a lateral tongue extending in a direction substantially parallel to the upper side of the tile; at least one first downward flank spaced from the lateral tongue; a first downward recess formed between the lateral tongue and the first downward flank; At least one second tile (type) includes at least one second edge having a second connecting contour, the second connecting contour comprising: a downward tongue extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the upper side of the tile; at least one second downward flank spaced from the downward tongue; a second downward recess formed between the downward tongue and the downward flank; and preferably at least one second locking element, preferably provided on a second downward flank of the second connection profile; At least one third tile (type) includes at least one third edge having a third connecting contour, the third connecting contour comprising: a third recess configured to receive at least a portion of a lateral tongue of the first interlocking profile of the further tile, the third recess being defined by an upper lip and a lower lip, the lower lip being provided with an upwardly directed locking element; at least one third locking element, preferably provided on a distal side of the lower lip facing away from the third recess and / or on a distal side of the upward locking element facing away from the third recess; a proximal side of the upward locking element of the third interlocking profile facing the third recess is at least partially, preferably entirely, inclined upward in a direction opposite the upper lip, the proximal side of the upward locking element including a third lower contact portion extending in a first direction and a third upper contact portion extending in a second direction, optionally deviating from the first direction; The first and third interlocking contours are configured such that two such tiles can interlock with each other at the first and third edges, preferably by a rotational movement, and in the interlocked state: At least a portion of the lateral tongue of the first connecting contour of the first tile is inserted into a third recess of the third connecting contour of the third tile; At least a portion of the upward locking element of the third connection contour is inserted into the first downward recess of the first connection contour; a proximal side of the lateral tongue opposite the first downward flank cooperates with a third upper contact portion and / or a third lower contact portion of the upward locking element of the third coupling profile; The second and third interlocking profiles are configured such that two such tiles can be interlocked with each other at the second and third edges, preferably by a folding movement and / or a vertical movement and / or a horizontal movement, and in the interlocked state: At least a portion of the downward tongue of the second connecting contour of the second tile is inserted into a third recess of the third connecting contour of the third tile; At least a portion of the upward locking element of the third connection contour is inserted into the second downward recess of the second connection contour; If applied, at least one second locking element faces and preferably cooperates with at least one third locking element to achieve a vertical effect. The first tile and / or the second tile and / or the third tile may be formed by the same tile. The first tile may include at least one second connecting contour and / or at least one third connecting contour. The second tile may include at least one first connecting contour and / or at least one third connecting contour. The third tile may include at least one first connecting contour and / or at least one second connecting contour.

[0012] The tile system of the present invention has several major advantages. The first major advantage is that the third interlocking profile (female profile) is configured to cooperate with both the first interlocking profile (first male profile) and the second interlocking profile (second male profile). This greatly increases how all tiles are oriented relative to one another in the resulting tile covering. Although a classical row-style tile installation is possible, the third interlocking profile is compatible with both the first and second interlocking profiles, allowing for a variety of alternative installation patterns while requiring and using only a single tile type. Alternative installation patterns include, but are not limited to, a herringbone pattern. In the case of rectangular tiles, the short side of a tile can be interlocked with, for example, the short side or the long side of an adjacent tile. Moreover, each tile of the tile system can be manufactured in a relatively cost-efficient manner, since the manufacturing process requires only three different interlocking profiles instead of the four that would normally be required. This will at least result in a reduction in the cost of the machinery, and in particular the various milling tools, used in the manufacturing process.

[0013] A further main advantage of the tile system according to the invention is that the different male interlocking profiles (i.e. the first interlocking profile and the second interlocking profile) are configured to cooperate with different third contact portions of the third interlocking profile. This allows easy optimization of each interlocking profile. As a result, it is possible to facilitate the interlocking between the male interlocking profile and the female interlocking profile, to interlock the interlocking profiles relatively smoothly while maintaining sufficient (horizontal and / or vertical) locking of the two tiles in the interlocked state, and / or to relatively smoothly uninterlock the two interlocked tiles, preferably by an upward rotating movement (angular uninterlocking movement). The third lower contact portion and the third upper contact portion may at least partially overlap. However, preferably, the third lower contact portion and the third upper contact portion are non-overlapping contact portions, which may be connected to each other or located apart from each other. Preferably, the first interlocking profile is configured to cooperate with the third upper contact portion, preferably only with the third upper contact portion, which facilitates angling the first interlocking profile in and out of the third interlocking profile. Preferably, the second interlocking profile is configured to cooperate with the third lower contact portion, preferably only with the third upper contact portion, which facilitates achieving a stable connection between the second interlocking profile and the third interlocking profile.

[0014] Preferably, the third lower contact portion is connected to the third upper contact portion, the third lower contact portion extending in a first direction and the third upper contact portion extending in a second direction diverging from the first direction. More preferably, both the third upper contact portion and the third lower contact portion are inclined upwards in a direction opposite to the upper lip. This results in a situation where the third upper contact portion and the third lower contact portion have different inclinations (with respect to the plane defined by the tile). It is conceivable that the third lower contact portion is connected to the third upper contact portion via at least one intermediate curved section, preferably a convex section, the third lower contact portion extending in a first direction and the third upper contact portion extending in a second direction diverging from the first direction. Any curved section prevents the respective coupling profiles from breaking during (un)coupling. Any convex curved section facilitates the third lower contact portion to be steeper than the third upper contact portion. That is, a first angle enclosed by a first direction in which the third lower contact portion extends and a surface defined by the tile is preferably larger than a second angle enclosed by a second direction in which the third upper contact portion extends and a surface defined by the tile. A third upper contact portion with a more gentle slope, for example, facilitates the connection and disconnection between the first and third connecting contours. A third lower contact portion with a steeper slope, for example, facilitates a stable connection between the second and third connecting contours due to a horizontal locking effect. Preferably, the angle enclosed by the first direction in which the third lower contact portion extends together with the surface defined by the tile is between 50° and 85°, preferably between 60° and 75°, more preferably between 63° and 67°, in particular approximately 65°. Preferably, the angle that the second direction in which the third upper contact portion extends encloses with the surface defined by the tile is between 30° and 65°, preferably between 40° and 55°, more preferably between 47° and 53°, in particular approximately 50°.

[0015] Preferably, as already briefly described above, in the connected state of the first and third connecting profiles of adjacent tiles, the proximal side of the lateral tongue, facing the first downward flank, interacts only with the third upper contact portion of the upward locking element of the third connecting profile. At least a part of the proximal side of the lateral tongue, which is configured to interact with the third upper contact portion, preferably extends substantially parallel to the third upper contact portion. This substantially parallel orientation results in a line contact in the cross section of each tile for the connected state of the two tiles, which is more stable than a line contact.

[0016] Preferably, as already briefly described above, in the connected state of the second and third connecting profiles of adjacent tiles, the proximal side of the downward tongue, which faces the second downward flank, interacts only with the third lower contact portion of the upward locking element of the third connecting profile. At least a part of the proximal side of the downward tongue, which is configured to interact with the third lower contact portion, preferably extends substantially parallel to the third lower contact portion. This substantially parallel orientation results in a line contact in the cross section of each tile for the connected state of the two tiles, which is more stable than a line contact.

[0017] Preferably, the heel of the downward tongue, defined by the bottom side of the downward tongue and the proximal side of the downward tongue, is provided with a cutout to facilitate decoupling of the second and third coupling profiles. This cutout provides more space for decoupling the second coupling profile to the third coupling profile by an angular (rotating) movement out. Preferably, the maximum height of the cutout is at least 0.2 mm. Preferably, the maximum height of the cutout is less than 0.4 mm to ensure sufficient contact between the downward tongue and the upward locking element in the coupled state.

[0018] Preferably, the first and third sides define a first closing surface in the connected state, the first closing surface being defined as a first vertical plane passing through the upper side of each connected tile, or at least through the upper part of each tile where the tiles contact each other. Preferably, the first and third connecting contours are configured such that, in the connected state, the lateral tongues and the third recesses each extend through the first vertical plane (joining plane). This makes it easier to achieve a vertical locking effect. "Extending through" means that a part of the lateral tongue is located on one side of the first vertical plane, and another part of the lateral tongue is located on the opposite side of the first vertical plane. The same applies to the third recess. The lower lip that limits the lower part of the third recess typically extends beyond the upper lip. Preferably, the upper lip defines the vertical plane (joining plane) of the two tiles in the connected state. Preferably, the upward locking element is located away from the vertical plane. Here, the upward locking element and the upper lip are typically located on opposite sides of the joining surface. Here, the possible difference between the upper lip and the lower lip bordering the third recess, measured at the surface of the tile, is preferably less than 1 times the total thickness of the tile. This allows to avoid loss of material when manufacturing the tile. However, in another preferred embodiment, the difference between the upper lip and the lower lip, measured at the surface of the tile, is greater than 1.0 times the thickness of the tile, preferably at least 1.25 times. In this embodiment, the lower lip is relatively long, which has the advantage that the dimensions of the third recess and the matching lateral and downward tongues can be relatively large (compared to the situation where a relatively short lower lip is applied). This is beneficial in terms of the robustness, stability and durability of the connection achieved by the connection profile between adjacent tiles. The second vertical surface usually overlaps with the first vertical surface mentioned above. The second and third interlocking contours are preferably configured such that, in the interlocked state, the downward tongue is located on one side of the second vertical surface and the third recess extends through the second vertical surface.In a preferred embodiment, a fourth locking element is provided on the distal side of the downward tongue facing away from the second downward flank, and a fifth locking element is provided on the upper lip of the third connecting profile, the fifth locking element being configured opposite the fourth locking element and preferably cooperating with the fourth locking element to achieve a vertical locking effect in the connecting state between the second and third connecting profiles of adjacent tiles, in which the fourth locking element and the remaining part of the downward tongue are preferably located on both sides of the second vertical plane, and in which the second and third connecting profiles of adjacent tiles are connected together, the fifth locking element and the remaining part of the upper lip are preferably located on both sides of the second vertical plane. Preferably, the fourth locking element comprises a bulge having an upper side extending in a third direction, the upper side sloping downwards in a direction opposite to the second downward flank, and preferably a third angle enclosed by the third direction and the plane defined by the tile is between 25° and 35°, preferably between 28° and 32°, in particular approximately 30°. Preferably, the maximum width of the (protruding) fourth locking element in the second vertical plane is between 0.06mm and 0.16mm, preferably between 0.08mm and 0.12mm. A width below 0.08mm, in particular below 0.06mm, typically reduces or eliminates the locking effect in the vertical direction. Widths greater than 0.12 mm, and especially greater than 0.16 mm, typically make it significantly more difficult to disconnect the second interlocking feature from the third interlocking feature by an angular disengagement motion (upward rotational motion), and may even make such disconnection impossible.

[0019] Preferably, the upper side of the lower lip defines a support surface for both the downward tongue of the second interlocking profile of the adjacent tile and the lateral tongue of the first interlocking profile of the adjacent tile. More preferably, the support surface of the lower lip comprises a second support portion for supporting the downward tongue of the second interlocking profile of the adjacent tile and a first support portion for supporting the lateral tongue of the first interlocking profile of the adjacent tile, the second support portion and the first support portion being partially overlapping or, typically more preferably, non-overlapping portions, the second support portion and the first support portion being connected to each other or, even more preferably, being located apart from each other. Preferably, the second support portion is located closer to the upward locking element than the first support portion. At least a part of the first support portion and the second support portion are preferably located on different sides of the (first or second) vertical plane defined as above. Preferably, the support surface of the lower lip is substantially flat. This makes the support surface suitable for acting as a slide surface (guiding surface) for the lateral tongue when it is inserted into the third recess. Preferably, the support surface of the lower lip is inclined downwards towards the upward locking element. This inclination allows more space for the insertion of the lateral tongue and facilitates the coupling process between the first and third coupling profiles. Furthermore, the inclination allows more space for the downward tongue to be accommodated, which can be designed to be larger. This increases the strength of the downward tongue and therefore of the coupling connection between the second and third coupling profiles. Preferably, the angle that the inclined support surface and the surface defined by the tile mutually enclose is between 1° and 4°, in particular 2°-3°.

[0020] In a cross-sectional view of the third connecting contour (as well as the first and second connecting contours), the width of the first support portion is preferably smaller than the width of the second support portion. Preferably, in a cross-sectional view of the third connecting contour, the first support portion defines a point contact (or a first line contact) and the second support portion defines a (second) line contact (which is larger than the first line contact).

[0021] Preferably, the lateral tongue comprises a tip facing away from the first downward flank and a heel facing towards the first downward flank, the bottom side of the lateral tongue between the tip and the heel being inclined upwards in a direction towards the first downward flank, typically resulting in a substantially triangular space being formed between the first and third connecting contours in the connected state. This inclination of the bottom side of the lateral tongue is advantageous, as it provides somewhat more space for angling the first connecting contour into and out of the third connecting contour. Preferably, the angle between the direction in which the bottom side of the lateral tongue extends and the surface defined by the tile is between 2° and 10°, preferably between 4° and 6°, in particular approximately 5°. The lowest part of the bottom side of the lateral tongue defines a contact surface that is configured to cooperate normally with the first support part of the lower lip of the third connecting profile. In the connected state of the first connecting profile and the third connecting profile, the tip of the lateral tongue is preferably clamped between the lower lip and the upper lip, more specifically between the first support part and the lower part of the upper lip.

[0022] Although it is conceivable for the first downward flank to be provided with a first locking element configured to cooperate with a third locking element of the third interlocking profile, it is generally preferred that the first downward flank does not have any locking element, which allows for a larger space between the first interlocking profile and the third interlocking profile, thereby facilitating both interlocking and de-interlocking.

[0023] Preferably, each tile includes a first pair of opposing sides, the first side and the third side. Each tile includes a second pair of opposing sides, the second side and the third side. Arrangement of interlocking features on the opposing sides, which are configured to cooperate with each other, facilitates installation of the tiles of the tile system. The tiles of the tile system typically have a polygonal shape, such as a square, a rectangle, a triangle, a hexagon, an octagon, etc. However, as will be elucidated further below, other shapes are also conceivable, such as a parallelogram. Preferably, for tiles with an even number of sides, the number of third interlocking features of the tile corresponds to the sum of the number of first interlocking features and the number of second interlocking features. Typically, the number of first interlocking features of the tile corresponds to the number of second interlocking features, but this is not necessarily the case, and the tile may, for example, include more second interlocking features than first interlocking features, or vice versa.

[0024] At least some of the tiles in the tile system according to the invention may be rigid, flexible (resilient) or slightly flexible (semi-rigid). Each tile is typically formed as one of the following types: laminate floor panels; so-called "resilient floor panels"; "LVT" (luxury vinyl tile) panels or "VCT" (vinyl composite tile) panels or equivalent panels based on other synthetic materials than vinyl; floor panels having a substrate layer (core layer) based on a first synthetic material, preferably foamed, on which there is a second substrate layer (second core layer) made of or based on vinyl or other synthetic material, preferably thinner; floor panels having a rigid, synthetic material-based substrate.

[0025] The tiles preferably include an integral interlocking profile, in particular by applying certain structural features and / or material properties and / or design in the interlocking profile. The interlocking profile is preferably an integral part of each tile, typically consisting of one or more layers of material that constitute the body of the tile. Preferably, the first interlocking profile and the third interlocking profile are configured for locking the tiles together in both vertical and horizontal directions. Preferably, the second interlocking profile and the third interlocking profile are configured for locking the tiles together in both vertical and horizontal directions. As the first interlocking profile is configured to be interlocked with the third interlocking profile by a rotating motion, also referred to as a rotational or angular downward motion, and the second interlocking profile is configured to be interlocked with the third interlocking profile by a tilting and / or vertical motion, also referred to as a scissor or zipper motion, the tiles of the tile system according to the invention can also be installed by using a user-friendly folding installation technique. Thus, the advantages achieved by the connection are generally in the form of an improved tile with an improved connection profile, combining the following advantages: ease of manufacture, since it utilises a connection profile which is easy to manufacture, i.e. which does not necessarily utilise separate connecting parts, the tile can be preferably installed according to a user-friendly folding principle, and a relatively reliable and durable connection is obtained.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, the at least one second locking element of the second coupling profile is provided on the second downward flank of the second coupling profile and the at least one third locking element of the third coupling profile is provided on the distal side of the lower lip facing away from the third recess and / or on the distal side of the upward locking element facing away from the third recess. In general, it is convenient to locate the at least one second locking element and the at least one third locking element at predefined locations, since these locations have a relatively large space. This makes the design of each locking element more robust and makes it easier to achieve a vertical locking effect.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment, at least one second locking element of the second interlocking profile is provided on a distal side of the downward tongue facing away from the second downward recess, and at least one third locking element of the third interlocking profile is provided on a side of the upper lip that faces the distal side of the downward tongue of the second interlocking profile of the adjacent tile in the interlocked state. This alternative positioning of the locking elements has the advantage that they are located close to the upper seam formed between the adjacent tiles, which helps to stabilize the seam and prevents the tiles from vertically shifting relative to each other near the seam. It is indicated that this alternative positioning of the locking elements may be combined with the positioning of the locking elements described in the paragraph above when applying multiple second and multiple third locking elements. More preferably, the cooperation between the second and third locking elements to achieve a vertical locking effect in the interlocked state of the two tiles defines a tangent line T1 that encloses an angle A1 with a surface defined by the tiles. The angle A1 is smaller than the angle A2 enclosed by the plane defined by the tile and the tangent line T2, which is defined by the cooperation between the inclined part of the proximal side of the upward locking element, which faces towards the third recess, and the inclined part of the proximal side of the downward tongue, which faces towards the second downward flank. Here, preferably, the maximum difference between the angle A1 and the angle A2 is between 5 degrees and 20 degrees. The second and third locking elements are preferably located closer to the upper side of the tile compared to the upper side of the upward locking element. This reduces the maximum deformation of the connecting profile or profiles and allows the connection and deformation processes to be carried out in successive steps. Less deformation also leads to less stress on the material, which is advantageous for the life of the connecting profile and therefore of the tile.

[0028] The first interlocking profile preferably includes at least one first locking element configured to face, and preferably cooperate with, a third locking element of a third interlocking profile of an adjacent tile in the interlocking state, the presence of which further stabilizes the interlock between the first and third interlocking profiles by cooperating with the third locking element in the interlocking state. Preferably, the at least one first locking element of the first interlocking profile is provided on a first downward flank of the first interlocking profile and the at least one third locking element of the third interlocking profile is provided on a distal side of the lower lip facing away from the third recess and / or on a distal side of the upward locking element facing away from the third recess. However, optionally, in addition to the above-mentioned positioning of the first locking elements, it is also contemplated that at least one first locking element of the first interlocking profile is provided on a distal side of the first interlocking profile that is located above at least a portion of the lateral tongue, and at least one third locking element of the third interlocking profile is provided on a side of the upper lip that, in the interlocked state, faces the distal side of the first interlocking profile on an adjacent tile.

[0029] Preferably, the third locking element comprises a third contact portion, preferably facing downwards, and the second locking element comprises a second contact portion, preferably facing upwards, which in the coupling state of adjacent tiles faces and preferably cooperates with the third contact portion. Preferably, the second and third contact portions define the only contact portion between the second and third locking elements. Preferably, the entire upper second part of the second locking element, preferably located above the second contact portion facing upwards, and the entire upper third part of the third locking element, preferably located above the third contact portion facing downwards, are located apart from each other to form a gap (or space). This gap may extend to the contact section between the proximal side of the downward tongue and the third coupling contour, which means that the upper side of the upward locking element and the upper side of the first downward recess are located apart from each other in general. In this way, a contact area between the second and third connecting contours can be reliably defined, which helps to establish a stable lock between the connecting contours.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment, at least a portion of the proximal side of the upward locking element of the third interlocking profile facing the third recess is inclined upward in a direction opposite to the upper lip, preferably subtending an angle with a normal perpendicular to the plane defined by each tile between 0 and 60 degrees, in particular between 0 and 45 degrees, which opens up the third recess and facilitates the insertion of both the lateral tongue and the downward tongue.

[0031] Preferably, at least a part of the proximal side of the downward tongue of the second connecting profile, facing the second downward recess, is inclined downwards in a direction away from the second downward flank, preferably at an angle between 0 and 60 degrees, in particular between 0 and 45 degrees, with a normal perpendicular to the plane defined by each tile. Preferably, at least a part of the proximal side of the lateral tongue of the first connecting profile, facing the first downward recess, is inclined downwards in a direction away from the first downward flank, preferably at an angle between 0 and 60 degrees, in particular between 0 and 45 degrees, with a normal perpendicular to the plane defined by each tile. By applying a corresponding inclination, a more complementary shape is given to the first connecting profile and / or the second connecting profile, which usually results in a more stable connection between the first and third connecting profiles and between the second and third connecting profiles.

[0032] In an alternative embodiment, at least a part of the proximal side of the upward locking element of the third connecting profile, which faces the third recess, is inclined upwards in a direction towards the upper lip, preferably at an angle between 0 and 60 degrees, in particular between 0 and 45 degrees, with a normal perpendicular to the surface defined by each tile. This inward inclination (slightly) closes the third recess, and the upward locking element can be inserted into the third recess and used to hook or clamp around the lateral and / or downward tongues. This is particularly possible if: at least a part of the proximal side of the downward tongue of the second connecting profile, which faces the second downward recess, is inclined downwards towards the second downward flank, preferably at an angle between 0 and 60 degrees, in particular between 0 and 45 degrees, with a normal perpendicular to the surface defined by each tile. The above-mentioned circumferential gripping and / or clamping effect by the upward locking elements can also be achieved, for example, if at least a part of the proximal side of the lateral tongue of the first connecting profile facing the first downward recess is inclined downwards towards the first downward flank, preferably subtending an angle with a normal perpendicular to the plane defined by each tile between 0 and 60 degrees, in particular between 0 and 45 degrees.

[0033] Preferably, the first transition section between the proximal side of the lateral tongue of the first connection profile and the lower side of the lateral tongue of the first connection profile is curved. This curved first transition section can be used to guide the lateral tongue into the third recess when connecting adjacent tiles. The second transition section between the proximal side of the downward tongue of the second connection profile and the lower side of the downward tongue of the second connection profile can also be curved. This curved second transition section can be used to guide the downward tongue into the third recess when connecting adjacent tiles. The third transition section between the proximal side of the upward locking element of the third connection profile and the upper side of the upward locking element of the third connection profile is preferably (also) curved. This facilitates the insertion of the downward tongue and the lateral tongue into the third recess.

[0034] Preferably, a recess is present on the lower side of the lower lip of the third connecting profile, which extends to the distal end of the lower lip and allows the lower lip to bend downwards. The downward bending of the lower lip allows the third recess to be widened during connection. This facilitates the insertion of the lateral tongue and the downward tongue into the third recess. Depending on the specific design of the connecting profile, the lower lip may remain bent in the connected state of adjacent tiles. For this purpose, the first connecting profile and the third connecting profile may be configured such that, in the connected state, the first connecting profile is clamped by the third connecting profile. For this purpose, the second connecting profile and the third connecting profile may also be configured such that, in the connected state, the second connecting profile is clamped by the third connecting profile. This clamping effect is generally the result of deformation as elastic bending or elastic compression (squeezing) or a combination of both. The clamping effect typically improves the interlocking and locking of cooperating interlocking profiles.

[0035] The pretension is preferably achieved by using overlapping contours of matching connection profiles, in particular overlapping contours of the downward tongue and the third recess and / or overlapping contours of the upward locking element and the first and / or second downward recess. Overlapping contours does not mean that the contours should completely overlap, but rather that at least a part of the (outer) contour of the first and / or second connection profile overlaps at least a part of the (outer) contour of the third connection part. The contours are typically compared taking into account the contours of the first and second connection parts in a side view (or in cross section). By applying overlapping contours, the first and / or second connection profile and / or the third connection profile typically remain (elastically) deformed, in particular compressed and / or bent, in the connected state, so that the desired stability for the connection is obtained. Typically, when the contours overlap, the downward tongue is (slightly) oversized relative to the third recess and / or the upward locking element is (slightly) oversized relative to the first and / or second downward recess, however, it should be understood that the overlapping contours may be achieved in other ways, for example by overlapping the (first, second and / or third) locking elements.

[0036] In a preferred embodiment, the contour of the first connection profile configured to surround the upward locking element of the third connection profile is substantially identical to the (corresponding) contour of the second connection profile configured to surround the upward locking element of the third connection profile. The contour of the remaining part of the first connection profile and the contour of the remaining part of the second connection profile are typically unique to each other. The contact surface between the first connection profile and the third connection profile in the connected state is preferably larger than the contact surface between the second connection profile and the third connection profile in the connected state. Preferably, the connection between the first connection profile and the third connection profile provides a stronger engagement per unit side length in the longitudinal direction of the third recess and in the direction parallel to the plane of the tile compared to the connection between the second connection profile and the third connection profile.

[0037] When connecting the tiles, the upward locking element may be (elastically) deformed, in particular compressed and / or bent. The bending occurs from the initial position in a (slightly) outward direction, away from the upper lip. The bent state of the upward locking element may remain in the connected state of the two tiles. The bending angle of the proximal side of the upward locking element, facing the upward flank, is generally limited and is between 0 and 2 degrees.

[0038] It is conceivable and preferred that the second and third connection profiles are configured such that in the connected state there is a so-called pretension, and the first and third connection profiles are configured such that in such connected state there is substantially no pretension. This (mixed) embodiment may facilitate the connection of tiles to each other.

[0039] In an alternative embodiment, the first and third connection profiles are configured such that the connection between the first and third connection profiles is substantially free of pretension. The same can be applied between the second and third connection profiles, where the second and third connection profiles may be configured such that the connection between the second and third connection profiles is substantially free of pretension. This can typically be achieved when the contour of the first and / or second connection profile fits into or mates with the contour of the third connection profile, preferably without play and thus reducing the possibility of squeaking.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment, the first and third connecting profiles are configured such that in the connected state there are multiple, preferably at least three, distal contact sections, leaving a space between each pair of adjacent contact sections. Preferably, the second and third connecting profiles are configured such that in the connected state there are multiple, preferably at least three, distal contact sections, leaving a space between each pair of adjacent contact sections. By applying one or more deliberate (air) gaps between the connecting profiles in the connected state. These created gaps or gaps are advantageous, for example, for the purpose of absorbing expansion of the tiles due to temperature changes in the environment and / or for accumulating dust, in particular environmental dust or dust generated during the manufacture of the tiles.

[0041] Typically, the second and third sides (also) in the interlocking state define a second closing surface, which defines a second vertical plane passing through the upper side of each interlocked tile, or at least where the tiles contact each other at their upper sides. Preferably, the second and third interlocking contours are configured such that, in the interlocking state, the downward tongue is located on one side of the second vertical plane, and the third recess extends through the second vertical plane. This means that, when the second and third interlocking contours are interlocking with each other, one outer end of the third recess, also typically referred to as the tip of the third recess, remains empty.

[0042] The distal side of the downward tongue, facing away from the second downward recess, preferably comprises at least a vertical upper wall adjacent to the upper side of the tile and an angled wall adjacent below the vertical wall, which is angled inwards towards the chamfered and / or curved lower wall of the distal side of the downward tongue. The lower wall of the distal side is preferably connected to the lower side of the downward tongue. Preferably, an intermediate vertical wall is located between the angled wall and the lower wall. This intermediate vertical wall allows the downward tongue to be designed more robustly. This specific shape is generally the most preferred shape during manufacturing, as it allows the distal side of the downward tongue to realize both a guiding function (defined by the lower wall) for guiding the downward tongue into the third recess and a closing function for forming a closed seam between the respective upper edges of adjacent panels (defined by the upper wall). One of the above-mentioned walls, preferably the upper wall on the distal side of the downward tongue, may be provided with a second locking element to achieve and / or improve vertical locking between the interlocking tiles.

[0043] In a preferred embodiment, in the connected state of the two tiles, the underside of the lateral tongue of the first connecting profile is supported by the underside of the upwardly facing third recess of the third connecting profile. The underside of the third recess is defined by the upper side of the lower lip. This support contact preferably fixes the mutual position of the first connecting profile and the third connecting profile. The second connecting profile and the third connecting profile preferably cooperate in this support contact area or support contact point under tension. The same preferably applies to the second connecting profile and the third connecting profile. For this purpose, in the connected state of the two tiles, the underside of the downwardly facing tongue of the second connecting profile is supported by the underside of the (upwardly facing) third recess of the third connecting profile. This support contact preferably fixes the mutual position of the second connecting profile and the third connecting profile. The second connecting profile and the third connecting profile preferably cooperate in this support contact area or support contact point under tension. In the connected state, the lower lip portion stably supports the lateral tongue portion and the downward tongue portion, thereby further stabilizing the connection between the connecting contours and also reducing the possibility of squeaking noises (creaking).

[0044] In a preferred embodiment, in the interlocking state of the tiles, the first downward flank of the first interlocking profile and the distal side of the upward locking element and / or the lower lip of the third interlocking profile opposite the first downward flank are located apart from each other. Preferably, in the interlocking state of the tiles, the second downward flank of the second interlocking profile and the distal side of the upward locking element and / or the lower lip of the third interlocking profile opposite the second downward flank are located apart from each other. This intermediate (vertical) space between adjacent tiles provides a space for the lower lip and the upward locking element to (slightly) deform when interlocking and, optionally, to remain (slightly) deformed in the interlocking state of the tiles. This technical effect typically facilitates interlocking and may also improve the stability of the interlocking.

[0045] At least a part, preferably the entirety, of the upper side of the upward-locking element is inclined downwards in a direction facing away from the upper lip of the third connection profile. Preferably, at least a part, preferably the entirety, of the upper side of the first downward recess is inclined downwards towards the first downward flank. Preferably, the angle that both inclinations enclose with each other is between 0 degrees and 5 degrees, inclusive. The inclination of the upper side of the upward-locking element is preferably between 15 degrees and 45 degrees, more preferably between 25 degrees and 35 degrees, most preferably about 30 degrees, relative to the horizontal plane (which is the surface defined by the tile). The inclination of the upper side of the upward-locking element is preferably constant, which means that the upper side has a substantially flat orientation. Preferably, the upper side of the first downward recess and / or the second downward recess have a preferably similar orientation of inclination (compared to the inclination of the upper side of the upward-locking element). The direction of the inclination is more preferably upward in the direction of the lateral tongue and / or downward tongue. The first lower surface of the first bridge, which connects the downward tongue with the core (body) of the tile, is defined by the upper part (or vice) of the first downward recess. The second lower surface of the second bridge, which connects the downward tongue with the core (body) of the tile, is defined by the upper part (or vice) of the second downward recess. By applying the inclined upper part of the first downward recess, the thickness of the first and / or second bridge will be different when looking from the core in the direction of the downward tongue. According to this thickness of the bridge depending on the position, the thickness of the bridge is preferably relatively large near the core and relatively small near the downward tongue, but the thickness of the bridge has several advantages. The thicker parts of the first and / or second bridges near the core make the bridges larger and have sufficient strength and robustness, while the thinner parts of the bridges near the lateral and / or downward tongues form the weakest points of the bridges and are therefore crucial for the location of the first deformation (pivot point) during connection. The location of this deformation point near the lateral and / or downward tongues keeps the amount of material that deforms to allow the lateral and / or downward tongues to be inserted into the third recess to a minimum.Less deformation also means less stress on the material, which is advantageous for the connection profile and therefore for the life of the tiles. In the connected state of adjacent tiles, the upper side of the first or second downward recess can be at least partially, preferably substantially completely, supported by the upper side of the upward locking element, which can additionally increase the strength of the connection itself. For this purpose, it is advantageous that the inclination of the upper side of the first and / or second downward recess substantially corresponds to the inclination of the upper side of the upward locking element. This means that the inclination of the upper side of the first and / or second downward recess is preferably between 15 and 45 degrees, more preferably between 25 and 35 degrees, most preferably about 30 degrees, relative to the horizontal plane. This inclination can be flat, rounded or finally hooked.

[0046] In the connected state of the two tiles, the (inclined or horizontal) upper part of the upward locking element of the third connecting profile is preferably located away from the (inclined or horizontal) upper part of the first downward recess of the first connecting profile, thereby facilitating connection and allowing dust to accumulate in the space formed directly above the upward locking element.

[0047] In a preferred embodiment, the upper side of the upward locking element is located at a lower level than the upper lip of the third connection profile. This provides enough space to allow the first and second connection profiles to have relatively robust dimensions. This is advantageous for the strength of the first and second connection profiles. Furthermore, this configuration makes it easier to insert the lateral tongue and the downward tongue into the third recess.

[0048] The third locking element preferably comprises at least one outward bulge, and the second locking element and (if applicable) the first locking element comprise at least one first or second locking groove, respectively. The outward bulge is adapted to be at least partially received in the first and second locking grooves of the adjacent interlocking tiles, thereby achieving a locked connection, preferably a vertically locked connection. The third locking element and the second locking element preferably have a substantially complementary shape. Alternatively, the third locking element comprises at least one third locking groove, and the second locking element and (if applicable) the first locking element comprise at least one outward bulge (ridge). The outward bulge is adapted to be at least partially received in the locking grooves of the adjacent interlocking tiles, thereby achieving a locked connection. It is also conceivable that the first, second and third locking elements (if applicable) are not formed by a combination of bulges and grooves, but by a combination of co-acting contoured and / or high friction contact surfaces. In this latter embodiment, at least one of the first, second or third locking elements may be formed by an optionally separate contact surface (flat or otherwise shaped) made of a plastic material, which is configured to generate friction with the other locking element of the other tile in the engaged (coupled) state. Examples of plastics suitable for generating friction include: - Acetal (POM), which is stiff and strong with good creep resistance. Acetal has a low coefficient of friction, remains stable at high temperatures, and exhibits good resistance to hot water. - Nylon (PA), which absorbs more water than most polymers and whose impact strength and overall energy absorption actually improves as it absorbs water. Nylon has a low coefficient of friction, good electrical properties, and good chemical resistance. - Polyphthalamide (PPA). This high performance nylon has significantly improved temperature resistance and lower moisture absorption. Polyphthalamide also has good chemical resistance. - Polyetheretherketone (PEEK), a high temperature thermoplastic that has good chemical and fire resistance combined with high strength. PEEK is favored in the aerospace industry. - Polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), which exhibits a balance of properties including chemical and high temperature resistance, flame retardancy, flowability, dimensional stability, and good electrical properties; - Polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), which is dimensionally stable and has high heat and chemical resistance along with good electrical properties - Thermoplastic polyimide (TPI) that is inherently flame retardant with good physical, chemical and abrasion properties - Polycarbonate (PC), which has good impact strength, high heat resistance, and good dimensional stability. PC also has good electrical properties and is stable in water and mineral or organic acids. - Polyetherimide (PEI), which maintains strength and stiffness at high temperatures. Polyetherimides also have good long-term heat resistance, dimensional stability, inherent flame retardancy, and resistance to hydrocarbons, alcohols, and halogenated solvents.

[0049] Typically (but not necessarily) the third locking element is located distal to the lower lip and / or upward locking element, away from both the underside of the lower lip and the upper side of the upward locking element, allowing the third locking element to cooperate with the complementary first and / or second locking elements over a relatively large surface area, and therefore in a concentrated manner.

[0050] Typically, the upward locking element projects vertically (i.e. perpendicular to the plane defined by the panel) relative to the lower lip. Preferably, the effective height (in the vertical direction) of the upward locking element is defined as the maximum (vertical) distance between the highest point of the upward locking element and the lowest point of the lower lip. Preferably, the effective height of the upward locking element is at least 20%, more preferably at least 25%, even more preferably at least 30% of the thickness of the panel. Preferably, the sum of the thicknesses of the lower lip and the upward locking element is at least 50% of the thickness of the panel. All these preferred features are aimed at improving the horizontal locking effect between the two panels in the connected state.

[0051] Each connecting profile preferably does not have a hook-and-loop and / or adhesive connection. Each tile preferably does not have any connecting profiles other than at least one first connecting profile, at least one second connecting profile, and at least one, preferably at least two, third connecting profiles. Preferably, each connecting profile has a chamfer, such as a bevel, at or near the top side of the tile. The presence of a chamfer, such as a bevel, typically makes the gap at the joint less noticeable. The presence of the chamfer results in a valley, or V-shaped recess, being formed when two tiles are attached together. Preferably, each tapered or beveled side has an angle of about 15° to about 55°, more preferably about 17°. Also, the width of the beveled or tapered side is about 1.0 mm to about 7.0 mm.

[0052] When forming a chevron-shaped pattern, the system advantageously comprises two different types of tiles (respectively A and B), with only each interlocking profile of one type of tile being arranged in a mirror image with respect to each corresponding interlocking profile of the other type of tile. For this purpose, the system preferably comprises a plurality of tiles having a parallelogram shape, said tiles being arranged to join in a chevron-shaped pattern, two pairs of adjacent sides preferably enclosing an acute angle and two pairs of adjacent sides preferably enclosing an obtuse angle. The acute angle is typically between 30 and 60 degrees, preferably substantially 45 degrees. The obtuse angle is typically between 120 and 150 degrees, preferably substantially 135 degrees. Preferably, at least one parallelogram tile (A) has a configuration in which the sides are arranged in the order of the first side, the third side, the other third side, the second side in a clockwise direction when viewed from above, and at least one parallelogram tile (B) has a configuration in which the sides are arranged in the order of the first side, the second side, the third side, the other third side in a clockwise direction when viewed from above. Distinct visual patterns, for example colored labels, symbolic labels, (pre-attached) different colored support layers, and / or text labels, may be applied to the different tile types to allow the user to easily recognize the different tile types during installation. Preferably, the visual patterns are not visible (from above) in the interlocking state of the tiles. The visual patterns may be applied, for example, to the upper side of the upward locking element and / or in the third recess and / or in the first or second downward recess. It is conceivable that the system according to the invention includes more than two different types of tiles.

[0053] At least one tile, and preferably each tile, preferably comprises a core layer and at least one upper substrate fixed directly or indirectly to an upper side of the core layer, the upper substrate preferably comprising a decorative layer. The upper substrate preferably consists at least in part of at least one material selected from the group consisting of: Metals, alloys, polymeric materials such as vinyl monomer copolymers and / or homopolymers Condensation polymers such as polyester, polyamide, polyimide, epoxy resin, phenol-formaldehyde resin, and urea-formaldehyde resin Natural polymeric materials or modified derivatives thereof, such as vegetable fibers, animal fibers, mineral fibers, ceramic fibers, and carbon fibers. The vinyl monomer copolymer and / or homopolymer here is preferably selected from the group consisting of: Polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polystyrene, polymethacrylate, polyacrylate, polyacrylamide, ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene) copolymer, polypropylene, ethylene-propylene copolymer, polyvinylidene chloride, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyvinylidene fluoride, hexafluoropropylene, and styrene-maleic anhydride copolymer, and derivatives thereof. The upper substrate most preferably comprises polyethylene, polyurethane (PU), or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The polyethylene can be low density polyethylene, medium density polyethylene, high density polyethylene, or ultra high density polyethylene. The upper substrate layer can further comprise filler materials and other additives that improve the physical and / or chemical properties and / or processability of the product. These additives include known tougheners, plasticizers, reinforcing agents, mildew (preservative) agents, flame retardants, and the like. The upper substrate typically comprises a decorative layer and an at least partially transparent or translucent wear layer covering the decorative layer, with the top surface of the wear layer being the top surface of the tile, and the decorative layer being visible through the transparent wear layer.

[0054] Preferably, at least one tile, preferably each tile, comprises an upper substrate fixed directly or indirectly to an upper side of the at least one core layer, the upper substrate preferably comprising a decorative layer. The decorative layer preferably has a Mohs hardness of more than 3. The decorative layer preferably has a thickness between 2 mm and 8 mm. The dimensions of the decorative layer are such that it does not cover the supporting core layer and / or at least one or more applied connection contours. The decorative layer preferably consists of a material selected from the group consisting of natural stone, marble, granite, slate, glass and ceramics. More preferably, the decorative layer is a type of ceramic selected from the group consisting of Monocuttura ceramic, Monoporosa ceramic, porcelain ceramic or multi-casted ceramic. Preferably, the decorative layer has a modulus of rupture of more than 10 N / mm 2 More preferably, 30 N / mm 2 The thickness of the upper substrate is typically about 0.1 mm to 3.5 mm, preferably about 0.5 mm to 3.2 mm, more preferably about 1 mm to 3 mm, and most preferably about 2 mm to 2.5 mm. The thickness ratio of the core layer to the upper substrate is generally about 1-15:0.1-3.5, preferably about 1.5-10:0.5-3.2, more preferably about 1.5-8:1-3, and most preferably about 2-8:2-2.5, respectively.

[0055] Each tile may include an adhesive layer that directly or indirectly secures the upper substrate to the core layer. The adhesive layer may be any known bonding or bonding agent capable of bonding the upper substrate and the core layer together, such as polyurethane, epoxy resin, polyacrylate, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, ethylene-acrylic acid copolymer, etc. Preferably, the adhesive layer is a hot melt bonding agent.

[0056] As mentioned above, the decorative or design layer, which may be part of the upper substrate, may comprise any suitable known plastic material, such as known formulations of PVC resin, stabilizers, plasticizers, and other additives well known in the relevant art. The design layer may be formed or printed with a printed pattern, such as wood grain, metal or stone designs and fibrous patterns, or three-dimensional figures. Thus, the design layer may give the tile a three-dimensional appearance similar to heavier products such as granite, stone, or metal. The design layer typically has a thickness of about 0.01 mm to 0.1 mm, preferably about 0.015 mm to 0.08 mm, more preferably about 0.2 mm to 0.7 mm, and most preferably about 0.02 mm to 0.5 mm. The wear layer, which typically forms the top surface of the tile, may comprise any suitable known wear-resistant material, such as a wear-resistant polymeric material coated on the layer below, or a known ceramic bead coating. If the wear layer is applied in layers, it may be bonded to the layer below. The wear layer may further include organic polymer layers and / or inorganic material layers, such as a UV coating or a combination of other organic polymer layers and UV coatings. For example, a UV paint, which may improve the scratch resistance, gloss, antibacterial resistance, and other properties of the surface of the product. Other organic polymers, including other polymers such as polyvinyl chloride resins or vinyl resins, and suitable amounts of plasticizers and other processing additives may be included as needed.

[0057] In a preferred embodiment, at least one tile comprises a plurality of strip-shaped upper substrates fixed directly or indirectly to the upper side of the core layer, the upper substrates being arranged side by side, preferably parallel to each other, on the same plane. Here, the plurality of upper substrates preferably substantially completely cover the upper surface of the core layer, more preferably extending from the first side to the second side of the tile. Each of the plurality of upper substrates comprises a decorative layer, the decorative layers of at least two adjacently arranged upper substrates preferably differ in appearance. The plurality of strip-shaped upper substrates arranged side by side on the same plane and fixed directly or indirectly to the core layer provides an attractive and aesthetic effect in which the tile is defined by the strip-shaped upper substrates themselves, with the further advantage that only the tiles themselves, and not the strip-shaped upper substrates, need to be connected during installation. The connection of strip-shaped upper substrates is time-consuming and expensive.

[0058] Preferably, the core layer comprises at least one foaming agent. The at least one foaming agent foams the core layer, thereby reducing its density. This results in a lighter tile, which is lighter in weight compared to tiles of similar dimensions with a non-foamed core layer. The preferred foaming agent depends on the (thermo)plastic material used in the core layer, as well as the desired foaming ratio and foam structure, and preferably also on the desired (or required) foaming temperature to achieve the desired foaming ratio and / or foam structure. To this end, it may be advantageous to apply multiple foaming agents, each configured to foam the core layer at a different temperature. This allows the foamed core layer to be formed in a more gradual and more controlled manner. Examples of two different foaming agents that may be (simultaneously) present in the core layer include azodicarbonamide and sodium bicarbonate. In this respect, it is often further advantageous to apply at least one modifier, such as methyl methacrylate (MMA), to keep the foam structure throughout the core layer relatively uniform.

[0059] Suitable polymeric materials for forming the core layer may include polyurethane (PUR), polyamide copolymers, polystyrene (PS), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyisocyanurate (PIR), and polyethylene (PE) plastics, all of which have good moldability. The at least one polymer in the core layer may be solid or foamed (expanded). Preferably, chlorinated PVC (CPVC) and / or chlorinated polyethylene (CPE) and / or other chlorinated thermoplastic materials are used to further improve the hardness and rigidity of the core layer, i.e., the tiles themselves, thereby reducing the fragility of the sharp apex of each tile. This makes the tiles even more suitable for use as parallelogram / diamond tiles to form chevron-shaped patterns. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyurethane (PU) materials are particularly suitable for forming the core layer, as these materials are chemically stable, corrosion resistant, and have excellent flame retardant properties. The plastic material used as the core layer plastic material preferably does not contain any plasticizers in order to improve the desired stiffness of the core layer, which is also desirable from an environmental point of view.

[0060] The core layer may at least partially consist of a composition comprising a thermoplastic material, preferably free of PVC. The thermoplastic composition may comprise a polymer matrix comprising (a) at least one ionomer and / or at least one acid copolymer, and (b) at least one styrenic thermoplastic polymer and, optionally, at least one filler. An ionomer is understood to be a copolymer comprising repeating units of electrically neutral and ionized units. The ionized units of the ionomer may in particular be carboxylic acid groups partially neutralized by metal cations. The ionic groups, although usually present in small amounts (typically less than 15 mol % of the constitutional units), cause a microphase separation of ionic domains from the continuous polymeric phase and act as physical crosslinks. This results in an ionically reinforced thermoplastic material with improved physical properties compared to conventional plastics.

[0061] The polymer used for the upper substrate and / or the core layer may be a virgin polymer, but it is often preferred to use a mixture of virgin and (similar) recycled polymeric materials. Here, for example, it is conceivable that at least a portion of the core layer consists of a mixture of virgin and recycled PU. In this respect, other polymers such as PVC, PP and / or PET may be used instead of PU.

[0062] The core layer may consist of a composite of at least one polymer and at least one non-polymeric material. The composite of the core layer preferably comprises one or more fillers, at least one of which is selected from the group consisting of talc, chalk, wood, calcium carbonate, titanium dioxide, calcined clay, porcelain material, (other) inorganic fillers, rice, rice husk, rice flour and (other) natural fillers. The fillers may be formed by fibres and / or by dust-like particles. Here, the expression "dust" is understood to mean small dust-like particles (powders) such as wood dust, powdered cork or non-wood dusts such as mineral dust, stone dust and especially cement. The average particle size of the dust is preferably between 14 and 20 microns, more preferably between 16 and 18 microns. The main role of this type of filler is to provide sufficient hardness to the core layer, i.e. to the parallelogram / diamond tile itself. This allows the tiles to form chevron-shaped patterns, including the generally relatively weak pointed apexes, in a reliable and durable manner. Furthermore, this type of filler typically improves the impact strength of the core layer, i.e., the tile itself. The content of this type of filler by weight in the composite is preferably between 35% and 75%, more preferably between 40% and 48% if the composite is a foamed composite, and more preferably between 65% and 70% if the composite is a non-foamed (solid) composite.

[0063] It is conceivable that the core layer (and / or other layers) comprises a composite of at least one polymer and rice. Preferably, the rice is formed by rice husk, more preferably by a mixture of separated rice husk, ground rice husk and rice husk powder. Preferably, the different types of rice husk have different average particle sizes. The polymer acts as a polymer binder, preferably using at least partially recycled plastic polymers such as TPU, PP, PE, PET and / or PVC. Unground rice husk may be present, for example, in an amount of 1% to 98% by weight based on the weight of the rice husk mixture. Similarly, ground rice husk and powdered rice husk may be present in an amount of 1% to 98% by weight based on the weight of the rice husk mixture. Preferably, in one embodiment, the rice husk mixture comprises 20% to 50% by weight of each of unground rice husk, ground rice husk and rice husk powder. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the rice husk mixture comprises about 33% each of unground rice husk, ground rice husk, and rice husk powder by weight. The amount of polymeric binder present in the rice husk mixture may vary, for example, from 1% to 30%, preferably from 10% to 25%, more preferably from 12% to 20% by weight of the rice husk mixture. The rice husk powder preferably has an average particle size of 0.175 mm to 1.20 mm.

[0064] In an alternative configuration of the tile system according to the invention, each tile includes a substantially rigid core layer at least partially made of a non-foamed (solid) composite comprising at least one plastic material and at least one filler. The solid core layer can increase the strength of the tile and therefore reduce the fragility of the sharp apexes, and can further improve the suitability of the tile for forming chevron-shaped patterns. A drawback of applying a solid composite instead of a foamed composite for the core layer is that the weight of the tile can increase (for the same thickness of core layer applied), leading to higher handling and material costs.

[0065] Preferably, the core layer composite contains at least one filler of the core layer selected from the group consisting of salts, stearates, calcium stearate, and zinc stearate. Stearic acid has the function of a stabilizer, which may provide a more favorable processing temperature and prevent the decomposition of the components of the composite during and after processing. This provides long-term stability. Instead of or in addition to stearic acid, for example, calcium zinc may be further used as a stabilizer. The content of the stabilizer in the composite by weight is preferably between 1% and 5%, more preferably between 1.5% and 4%.

[0066] The core layer composite preferably comprises at least one impact modifier, which comprises at least one alkyl methacrylate, preferably selected from the group consisting of methyl methacrylate, ethyl methacrylate, propyl methacrylate, isopropyl methacrylate, t-butyl methacrylate, and isobutyl methacrylate. The impact modifier typically improves the performance of the product, in particular the impact resistance. Furthermore, the impact modifier typically toughens the core layer and therefore can also be considered as a toughening agent. This further reduces the possibility of breakage. Often the modifier also facilitates the manufacturing process, for example controlling the formation of bubbles to achieve a relatively uniform (constant) foam structure, as already mentioned above. The content of the impact modifier in the composite, based on weight, is preferably between 1% and 9%, more preferably between 3% and 6%. Preferably, the substantially complete core layer is formed by a foamed composite or a non-foamed (solid) composite. The at least one plastic material used in the core layer preferably does not contain any plasticizers in order to enhance the desired stiffness of the core layer, which is also desirable from an environmental standpoint.

[0067] The core layer and / or other layers in the tile may comprise wood-based materials, such as, for example, MDF, HDF, wood dust, pre-manufactured wood, more particularly so-called engineered wood, etc. The wood-based material may be part of the core layer composite.

[0068] The density of the core layer is typically about 0.1 to 1.5 grams / cm3, preferably about 0.2 to 1.4 grams / cm3, more preferably about 0.3 to 1.3 grams / cm3, even more preferably about 0.4 to 1.2 grams / cm3, still more preferably about 0.5 to 1.2 grams / cm3, and most preferably about 0.6 to 1.2 grams / cm3.

[0069] The polymer used for the core layer and / or the core layer itself preferably has a modulus of elasticity of more than 700 MPa (at 23 degrees Celsius and 50% relative humidity). This generally provides sufficient stiffness for the core layer and therefore for the parallelogram / diamond tile itself. The core layer is preferably at least 3 mm thick, preferably at least 4 mm thick, and even more preferably at least 5 mm thick. It is conceivable that each tile comprises multiple core layers. The different core layers may be of the same or different composition.

[0070] The density of the core layer preferably varies along the height of the core layer. This may have a positive effect on the acoustic (sound-reducing) properties of the tile itself. Preferably, a crust layer may be formed on the top and / or bottom of the foamed core layer. This at least one crust layer may form an integral part of the core layer. More preferably, both the top and bottom of the core layer form a crust layer surrounding the foamed structure. The crust layer is a relatively closed (low porosity, preferably cell-free) layer and therefore forms a relatively rigid (sub)layer compared to the more porous foamed structure. Typically (but not necessarily) the crust layer is formed by sealing (cauterizing) the bottom and top surfaces of the core layer. Preferably, each crust layer has a thickness between 0.01 mm and 1 mm, preferably between 0.1 mm and 0.8 mm. An excessively thick crust increases the average density of the core layer, which in turn increases the cost and rigidity of the core layer. The thickness of the core layer (core layer) itself is preferably between 2 and 10 mm, more preferably between 3 and 8 mm, typically around 4 or 5 mm. Preferably, the porosity of the crust layers formed by the top and / or bottom of the (composite) core layer is lower than the porosity of the closed cell foamed plastic material of the core layer, the thickness of each crust layer being preferably between 0.01 and 1 mm, preferably between 0.1 and 0.8 mm.

[0071] Preferably, each tile includes at least one support layer fixed to the bottom side of the core layer, the at least one support layer being at least partially made of a soft material, preferably an elastomer. The thickness of the support layer is typically about 0.1 mm to 2.5 mm. Non-limiting examples of possible materials for the support layer are polyethylene, cork, polyurethane, and ethylene-vinyl acetate. The thickness of the polyethylene support layer is, for example, typically 2 mm or less. The support layer generally improves the robustness and impact resistance of each tile itself, improving the durability of the tile. Furthermore, the (flexible) support layer may improve the acoustic (sound-reducing) properties of the tile. In a specific embodiment, the core layer is made of a plurality of separate core layer parts fixed to at least one support layer, preferably the core layer parts are hingeable to each other. The lightweight characteristic of the tiles is advantageous for a stable joint when the tiles are installed on a vertical wall surface. The tiles are also particularly easy to install at vertical corners, such as between intersecting walls, between furniture pieces, and at the exterior corners of entryways. Installation at interior or exterior corners can be accomplished by forming grooves in the core layer of the tile to make the tile easier to bend or fold.

[0072] Each tile may include at least one reinforcing layer. The at least one reinforcing layer may be located between the core layer and the upper substrate. The at least one reinforcing layer may be located between two core layers. The application of the reinforcing layer may further improve the rigidity of the tile itself. This may further improve the acoustic (sound-reducing) properties of the tile. The reinforcing layer may include a woven or non-woven fibrous material, for example a glass fiber material. They may have a thickness of 0.2 mm to 0.4 mm. It is also conceivable that each tile includes several (generally thinner) core layers laminated together, with at least one reinforcing layer being located between two adjacent core layers. Preferably, the density of the reinforcing layer is preferably between 1,000 kg / m3 and 2,000 kg / m3, preferably between 1,400 kg / m3 and 1,900 kg / m3, more preferably between 1,400 kg / m3 and 1,700 kg / m3.

[0073] Preferably, at least a portion of the first connecting contour and / or at least a portion of the second connecting contour and / or at least a portion of the third connecting contour of each tile are integrally connected to the core layer, forming integral tiles which are relatively easy and cost-effective to produce.

[0074] The first and / or second and / or third interlocking profiles are preferably deformable when interlocking and uninterlocking the tiles. At least some of the tiles are identical. It is also conceivable that at least some of the tiles are different in size and / or shape. Besides the parallelogram tiles for forming the chevron-shaped pattern already described, the tile system may also comprise different types of tiles (A and B, respectively), the first type of tiles (A) being different in size from the second type of tiles (B). These panels of A and B may have, for example, a rectangular and / or square shape. A distinctive visual pattern may be applied to the different tile types, preferably for installation purposes. For this purpose, a distinctive visual pattern is preferably applied to the upper side of the third recess and / or to the upper side of the upward locking element of the third interlocking profile of each tile type.

[0075] The invention further relates to a tile covering, in particular a floor covering, wall covering, ceiling covering and / or furniture covering, which consists of interconnected tiles according to the invention.The invention further relates to tiles for use in the multipurpose tile system according to the invention. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0076] The invention will be elucidated on the basis of the non-limiting exemplary embodiments shown in the following drawings. [Figure 1a] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a multi-purpose tile for use in a multi-purpose tile system according to the present invention. [Figure 1b] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a multi-purpose tile system including a plurality of multi-purpose tiles as shown in FIG. 1a. [Figure 2a] 2A-2C show schematic diagrams of two different types of multi-purpose tiles for use in another embodiment of the multi-purpose tile system according to the present invention. [Figure 2b] 2b shows a schematic diagram of a multi-purpose tile system including a plurality of multi-purpose tiles as shown in FIG. 2a. [Figure 3a] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a multi-purpose tile for use in yet another embodiment of the multi-purpose tile system of the present invention. [Figure 3b] 3b shows a schematic diagram of a multi-purpose tile system including a plurality of multi-purpose tiles as shown in FIG. 3a. [Figure 4a] 1 shows a cross section along line AA of a multi-purpose tile as shown in FIG. 1a, FIG. 2a or FIG. 3a. [Figure 4b] 1 shows a cross section along line BB of a multi-purpose tile as shown in FIG. 1a, FIG. 2a or FIG. 3a. [Figure 5a] 1A, 1B and 1C show cross sections of two multi-purpose tiles as shown in FIG. 1a, FIG. 2a or FIG. 3a in a first, second and third connected state, respectively. [Figure 5b] 1A, 1B and 1C show cross sections of two multi-purpose tiles as shown in FIG. 1a, FIG. 2a or FIG. 3a in a first, second and third connected state, respectively. [Figure 5c] 1A, 1B and 1C show cross sections of two multi-purpose tiles as shown in FIG. 1a, FIG. 2a or FIG. 3a in a first, second and third connected state, respectively. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0077] Figure 1a shows a schematic diagram of a multi-purpose tile (100) for use in a multi-purpose tile system (110) according to the present invention. It shows a tile (100) including a first pair of opposing sides, consisting of a first side (101) and an opposing third side (103), and a second pair of opposing sides, consisting of a second side (102) and an opposing third side (103). The first, second and third sides (101, 102, 103) are provided with first, second and third interlocking contours (104, 105, 106), respectively. The first interlocking contour (104) and the third interlocking contour (106) are configured such that two such tiles (100) can be interlocked with each other at the first and third sides (101, 103) by a rotational movement. Furthermore, the second connecting contour (105) and the third connecting contour (106) are configured in such a way that two such tiles (100) can be connected to each other at the second and third sides (102, 103) by a tilting and / or vertical movement. The ratio of the width and length of the tiles (100) can be freely chosen. Figure 1a shows only one of many possibilities, where the tiles have an upper side (107) with a rectangular outline (108). However, it is also possible for the width and length of the tiles (100) to be the same, so that the tiles (100) have an upper side (107) with a square outline.

[0078] Figure 1b shows a schematic diagram of a multipurpose tile system (110) including multiple multipurpose tiles (100) as shown in Figure 1a. Although each individual tile (100) is identical, having a first pair of opposing sides consisting of a first side (101) and an opposing third side (103), and a second pair of opposing sides consisting of a second side (102) and an opposing third side (103), the tiles (100) can be joined in various ways to form different tile patterns (111, 112) within one multipurpose tile system (110) depending on the compatibility of the connecting contour of the third side (103) with the connecting contour of both the first and second sides (101, 102). In the illustrated multi-purpose tile system (110), each tile (110) has a top side (107) with a rectangular outline (108), and the tiles (100) have a long side (113) and a short side (114). Different tile patterns (111, 112) are thus created by interlocking a first tile pattern (111) with a second tile pattern (112). The first tile pattern (111) is a pattern of interconnected tiles (100) with a long side (113) that is connected to the long side (113) of an adjacent tile (100). The second tile pattern (112) is a pattern of interconnected tiles (100) with a long side (113) that is connected to the long side (113) of an adjacent tile (100) and a short side (114) that is connected to the short side (114) of another adjacent tile (100). This rotates the first and second tile patterns (111, 112) relative to each other, such that the long sides (113) of the tiles (100) of the first tile pattern (111) form an angle of 90 degrees with respect to the long sides (113) of the tiles (100) of the second tile pattern (112). The reason that different tile patterns (111, 112) can be linked in this manner is that the short sides (114) of the tiles (100) of the first tile pattern (111) can be connected with the long sides (113) of the tiles (100) of the second tile pattern (112).Installation of the tile system (110) can be accomplished by moving a first side (101) of the tile (100) to be installed (100) downwardly at an angle relative to a third side (103) of a previously installed tile (100). This typically allows the tiles (100) to be locked together in both the vertical and horizontal directions. During this angular or rotating movement of the tile (100) to be installed (100) relative to the previously installed tile (100), the second side (102) of the tile (100) to be installed (100) is (concurrently) connected to the third side (103) of the other previously installed tile (100). This is typically accomplished by lowering or folding the tile (100) downwardly relative to the other previously installed tile (100). At this time, the second side (102) of the tile (100) to be placed and the third side (103) of the other already placed tiles (100) are scissored (i.e. zipped) to each other, thereby locking the tile (100) to be placed relative to the other already placed tiles (100) both vertically and horizontally.

[0079] Figure 2a shows a schematic diagram of two different types of multi-purpose tiles (201, 202) for use in another embodiment of a multi-purpose tile system (200) according to the present invention. Just like the multi-purpose tile (100) shown in Figure 1a, each of these tiles (201, 202) includes a first pair of opposing sides consisting of a first side (101) and an opposing third side (103), and a second pair of opposing sides consisting of a second side (102) and an opposing third side (103). Again, the first, second and third sides (101, 102, 103) are provided with first, second and third interlocking profiles (104, 105, 106), respectively. The first connecting contour (104) and the third connecting contour (106) are configured such that the two tiles (201, 202) can be connected to each other at the first and third sides (101, 103) by a rotational movement. The second connecting contour (105) and the third connecting contour (106) are configured such that the two tiles (201, 202) can be connected to each other at the second and third sides (102, 103) by a tilting and / or vertical movement. However, here, two different types of tiles (201, 202) are provided, and the connecting contour (105, 106) of a pair of opposite sides (102, 103) of the first type of tile (201) is arranged in a mirror image with respect to the connecting contour (105, 106) of a corresponding pair of opposite sides (102, 103) of the second type of tile (202). In the figures, each pair of mirror-inverted sides of the different types of tiles (201, 202) is formed by a second and a third side (102, 103). However, it is equally possible for each pair of mirror-inverted sides to be formed by a first and a third side (101, 103). Furthermore, the multi-purpose tiles (201, 202) for use in the multi-purpose tile system (200) have an upper side (107) with a parallelogram contour (208). In this regard, two adjacent sides (101, 102, 103) of these tiles (201, 202) enclose an acute angle (203) or an obtuse angle (204).In this particular embodiment, the first and second sides (101, 102) and the third side (103) each enclose the same obtuse angle (204), and the first and third sides (101, 103) and the second and third sides (102, 103) each enclose the same acute angle (203). Due to the different tile configurations and the parallelogram contours (208) of the top sides (107), the tiles (201, 202) form a chevron-shaped pattern (205) when joined together.

[0080] Figure 2b shows a schematic diagram of a multipurpose tile system (200) comprising a number of multipurpose tiles (201, 202) as shown in Figure 2a. As already mentioned above, the multipurpose tiles (201, 202) forming part of this multipurpose tile system (200) exist in two different (mirror-inverted) types / configurations. The tiles (201, 202) when joined together form a chevron-shaped pattern (205) due to the different tile configurations and parallelogram-shaped top surface (107), but also have a first pair of opposing sides consisting of a first side (101) and an opposing third side (103) and a second pair of opposing sides consisting of a second side (102) and an opposing third side (103), with the connecting contour (106) of the third side (103) matching the connecting contours (104, 105) of both the first and second sides (101, 102), so that the tiles (201, 202) can be joined together in a variety of ways, thereby forming different tile patterns (206, 207) within one interconnected multi-purpose tile system (200). As in the multi-purpose tile system (110) shown in Figure lb, different tile patterns (206, 207) are created by interlocking a first tile pattern (206) of interconnected tiles (201, 202) with a second tile pattern (207) of interconnected tiles (201, 202). Within these separate tile patterns (206, 207), each tile (201, 202) has each pair of opposing sides (101, 103; 102, 103) connected to sides (101, 102, 103) of an adjacent tile (201, 202) and becoming part of the corresponding pair of opposing sides (101, 103; 102, 103) of the adjacent tile (201, 202). However, the connection of the first and second tile patterns (206, 207) is achieved by connecting a tile (201, 202) of the first tile pattern (206) having an edge (101, 103) that forms part of one pair of opposing edges (101, 103) with a tile (201, 202) of the second tile pattern (207) having an edge (102, 103) that forms part of another non-corresponding pair of opposing edges (102, 103).This results in a multi-purpose interconnected tile system (200) that includes two different tile patterns (206, 207) where the sides (101, 102, 103) of adjacent tiles (201, 202) are rotated 70 degrees relative to each other. Installation of the tile system (200) shown in Figure 2b is typically similar to the installation of the tile system (110) shown in Figure 1b.

[0081] Figure 3a shows a schematic diagram of a multi-purpose tile (301) for use in yet another embodiment of the multi-purpose tile system (300) according to the present invention. Unlike the multi-purpose tiles (100, 201, 202) shown in Figures 1a and 2a, each of these tiles (301) includes three pairs of opposing sides, with the upper side (107) having a regular hexagonal contour (302). The first pair of opposing sides consists of a first side (101) and an opposing third side (103). The second and third pairs of opposing sides consist of a second side (102) and an opposing third side (103). Thus, the first, second and third sides (101, 102, 103) are located such that the third sides (103) are directly adjacent to each other and the second sides (102) are adjacent to both sides of the first side (101). As a result, the second sides (102) are not adjacent to each other. However, commonalities between these multi-purpose tiles (301) and the multi-purpose tiles (100, 201, 202) shown in Figures 1a and 2a are as follows. That is, the first, second, and third edges (101, 102, 103) are provided with first, second, and third connecting shapes (104, 105, 106), respectively, and the first connecting shape (104) and the third connecting shape (106) are configured to allow two tiles (301) to be connected to each other at the first and third edges (101, 103) by a rotational movement, and the second connecting shape (105) and the third connecting shape (106) are configured to allow two tiles (301) to be connected to each other at the second and third edges (102, 103) by a tilting movement and / or vertical movement.

[0082] Figure 3b shows a schematic diagram of a multi-purpose tile system (300) including multiple multi-purpose tiles (301) as shown in Figure 3a. In the illustrated tile structure, all tiles (301) have the same orientation. Installation of the tile system (300) can be achieved in a similar manner to the tile systems (110, 200) of Figures 1b and 2b. The tiles (301) can generally be locked together in both vertical and horizontal directions by moving the first side (101) of the tile (301) to be installed downward at an angle relative to the third side (103) of the previously installed tile (301). In this manner, when the tile to be installed (301) is moved at an angle, i.e. rotated, relative to the already installed tiles (301), one or more second sides (102) of the tile to be installed (300) are (simultaneously) connected to the third sides (103) of one or more other adjacent tiles (301) that have already been installed. This is typically achieved by lowering, i.e. folding the tile to be installed (301) downward relative to the other already installed tiles (301). In this case, the second sides (102) of the tile to be installed (301) and the third sides (103) of the other already installed tiles (301) are scissored (i.e. zipped) to each other. This locks the tile to be installed (301) relative to the other already installed tiles (301) in both the vertical and horizontal directions.

[0083] FIG. 4a shows a cross section of a multi-purpose tile (100, 201, 202, 301) as shown in FIG. 1a, 2a, or 3a along line AA. The tile (100, 201, 202, 301) has a first side (101) and an opposing third side (103), each having a first connecting contour (104) and a third connecting contour (106). The first connecting contour (104) includes a lateral tongue (400) extending in a direction substantially parallel to the upper side (107) of the tile (100, 201, 202, 301, at least one first downward flank (401) spaced apart from the lateral tongue (400), and a first downward recess (402) formed between the lateral tongue (400) and the first downward flank (401). The first downward flank (401) in particular does not have any locking element, such that the proximal side (403) of the lateral tongue (400) of the first connecting profile (104) facing the first downward recess (402) is inclined downward in a direction opposite to the first downward flank (401). The proximal side (403) of the lateral tongue (400) may include a first proximal side contact portion (403'), which cooperates with a third upper contact portion (434a) of the upward locking element (433) of the third connecting profile (106). To effectively lock the first and third interlocking contours (103, 106), the first proximal side contact portion (403') is at an angle (β) with respect to the top side (107) of the tile (100, 201, 202, 301, preferably between 20 degrees and up to 50 degrees. This absolute value allows for easy interlocking and uninterlocking. A first transition section (404), which may also be referred to as a heel section, may be defined between the proximal side (403) of the lateral tongue (400) of the first interlocking contour (104) and the bottom side (405) of the lateral tongue (400) of the first interlocking contour (104), the first transition section (404) being curved in this example. The bottom side (405) of the side tongue (400) is located between the tip (444) and the heel (404) of the side tongue (400).The bottom side (405) of the lateral tongue (400) is inclined upward in a direction toward the first downward flank (401), and the inclined bottom side (405) is at an angle (α) with respect to the upper side (107) of the tile (100, 201, 202, 301). Although the angle (α) may be relatively small, it contributes greatly to the inventive concept of the present invention, since it makes the angular downward movement easier during the placement phase of the tile (100, 201, 202, 301) by reducing the contact surface. The upper side (406) of the first downward recess (402) is inclined downward toward the first downward flank (401) in the illustrated tile (100, 201, 202, 301). The first connecting contour (104) may further include a first bottom side contact portion (405') which may slide partially on a support surface (500) formed by an upper side of the lower lip (432) of the third connecting contour (106) during the connecting movement. Furthermore, the lateral tongue (400) may include a lateral tongue contact portion (409) which cooperates with a portion of the third connecting contour (106). A first closing surface (425) may be provided between the lateral tongue contact portion (409) and the upper side (107) of the tile (100, 201, 202, 301).

[0084] The third interlocking profile (106) includes a third recess (430) configured to receive at least a portion of the lateral tongue (400) of the first interlocking profile (104) of the further tile (100, 201, 202, 301). The third recess (430) is defined by an upper lip (431) and a lower lip (432), the lower lip (432) being provided with an upward locking element (433). The upper lip (431) further includes a third closing surface (420) and an upper lip contact portion (424), the third closing surface (420) and the upper lip contact portion (424) being located on either side of a fifth locking element (407). The fifth locking element (407) is formed in this example by a cutout portion (408). The proximal side (434) of the upward locking element (433) of the third connecting profile (106), which faces the third recess (430), is inclined upward in a direction opposite to the upper lip (431). The proximal side (434) of the upward locking element (433) includes third upper and third lower contact portions (434a, 434b). The third upper and third lower contact portions (434a, 434b) extend in a first direction and a second direction, the second direction being a direction deviating from the first direction. The third lower and third upper contact portions (434a, 434b) are connected via at least one intermediate curved section. The intermediate curved section is a convex section in this example. Preferably, the third upper contact portion (434a) extending in the first direction is inclined at a second angle (γ) relative to the lower side (437) of the lower lip (432). The third lower contact portion (434b) extending in the second direction is inclined at a first angle (φ) relative to the lower side (437) of the lower lip (432). The second angle (γ) may be substantially similar to the angle (β) of the first proximal side contact portion (403′) of the lateral tongue (400) of the second tile (100, 201, 202, 301) such that these contact portions (434a, 403′) interact with each other in the locked configuration. The second angle (γ) is preferably smaller than the first angle (φ). A third transition section (435) can be defined between the proximal side (434) of the upward locking element (433), specifically its third upper contact portion (434a), and the upper side (436) of the upward locking element (433).The third transition section (435) is in this example partially offset from the curved first transition section (404). The upper side (436) of the upward locking element (433) is inclined downward in a direction away from the upper lip (431) of the third interlocking contour (106) in the illustrated tile (100, 201, 202, 301. A recess (438) is present in the lower side (437) of the lower lip (432) of the third interlocking contour (106). This recess (438) allows the lower lip (432) to bend downward, particularly during interlocking. The third interlocking profile (106) may further include a third locking element (440) that may cooperate with the second locking element (422) of the second interlocking profile (105) of the adjacent tile (100, 201, 202, 301) to establish a vertical lock between the interlocked tiles (100, 201, 202, 301). In this regard, the third locking element (440) may be provided on a distal side (441) of the lower lip (432) facing away from the third recess (430) and / or on a distal side (442) of the upward locking element (433) facing away from the third recess (430). The third locking element (440), as shown here, may be located at a distance from both the lower side (437) of the lower lip (432) and the upper side (436) of the upward locking element (433). In the illustrated tile, the third locking element (440) includes at least one outward bulge (443). The outward bulge (443) may be provided with a third locking element contact portion (440'). The third locking element contact portion (440') is configured to cooperate with at least one second locking element (422) of the second interlocking contour (105) of the adjacent interlocking tile (100, 201, 202, 301), in particular with its second locking element contact portion (422'), in order to achieve a (vertically) locked interlock.

[0085] Figure 4b shows a cross section of the multi-purpose tile (100, 201, 202, 301) along line BB as shown in Figure 1a, 2a, or 3a, showing the second side (102) and the opposing third side (103) of the tile (100, 201, 202, 301), respectively having a second connecting contour (105) and a third connecting contour (106), which correspond to the third connecting contour (106) on the adjacent third side (103) of the tile (100, 201, 202, 301), the characteristics of which are shown above in the cross section of the multi-purpose tile (100, 201, 202, 301) along line AA. The second connecting profile (105) includes a downward tongue (410) extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the upper side (107) of the tile (100, 201, 202, 301), at least one second downward flank (411) spaced apart from the downward tongue (410), and a second downward recess (412) formed between the downward tongue (410) and the second downward flank (411), such that a proximal side (413) of the downward tongue (410) of the second connecting profile (105) opposite the second downward recess (412) is inclined downward in a direction opposite to the second downward flank (411). The proximal side (413) of the downward tongue (410) includes at least one second proximal contact portion (413') that is at an angle (δ) with respect to the upper side (107) of the tile (100, 201, 202, 301. Preferably, the angle (δ) is substantially similar to the first angle (φ) of the third lower contact portion (434b) of the third interlocking contour (106) of the second tile (100, 201, 202, 301), such that the contact portions (413', 434b) may cooperate with each other in the locked configuration. A second transition section (414), which may also be referred to as a heel section, may be defined between a proximal side (413) of the downward tongue (410) of the second interlocking contour (105) and a bottom side (415) of the downward tongue (410) of the second interlocking contour (105). The heel section (414), in this example, includes a cutout portion (414').The cutout portion (414') is provided to facilitate decoupling of the second and third coupling profiles (105, 106). The cutout portion (414') is configured to allow the downward tongue (410) to avoid a convex portion connecting the third upper and lower contact portions (434a, 434b) of the third locking element (433). The distal side (416) of the downward tongue (410) facing away from the second downward recess (412) includes at least a vertical upper wall portion (417) adjacent to the upper side (107) of the tile (100, 201, 202, 301) and a fourth locking element (418) adjacent below the vertical upper wall portion (417). The fourth locking element (418) specifically extends a distance (D) beyond the vertical upper wall portion (417). The fourth locking element (418) is configured to cooperate with the fifth locking element (407), which in this example is formed by a cutout (408) in the upper lip (431) of the third interlocking profile (106). The cutout (408) of the fifth locking element (407) is configured to receive a protruding portion of the fourth locking element (418). The lower wall (419) of the distal side (416) of the downward tongue (410) may further be connected to a bottom side (415) of the downward tongue (410). The bottom side (415) may include a bottom side contact portion (415'), which may rest on a portion of the support surface (500) of the third interlocking profile (106). The bottom side contact portion (415') is in particular formed by the portion of the downward tongue (410) that extends furthest from the top surface (107). The upper side (421) of the second downward recess (412) slopes downwards towards the second downward flank (411) in the illustrated tile (100, 201, 202, 301). The second interlocking profile (105) may further include at least one second locking element (422) which, in the interlocking position, may cooperate with a third locking element (440) of the third interlocking profile (106) in the adjacent tile (100, 201, 202, 301) to establish a vertical lock between the tiles (100, 201, 202, 301).In this regard, the second locking element (422) may be provided on a second downward flank (411) of the second interlocking profile (105). In the illustrated tile (100, 201, 202, 301), the second locking element (422) includes at least one second locking recess (423) adapted to at least partially receive an outward bulge (443) of a third locking element (440) in an adjacent interlocking tile (100, 201, 202, 301) in order to achieve a (vertically) locked interlock. In particular, the second locking element contact portion (422') of the second locking element (422) is configured to abut, in the interlocking position, the third locking element contact portion (440') of the third locking element (440) on the adjacent interlocking tile (100, 201, 202, 301) such that the second and third interlocking profiles (105, 106) lock in both the vertical and horizontal directions.

[0086] The interlocking contours (105, 106) of the multi-purpose tiles (100, 201, 202, 301) shown in Figure 4b may optionally include a chamfer (bevel) (450) at or near the top side (107) of the tiles (100, 201, 202, 301). The interlocking contours (104, 106) of the multi-purpose tiles (100, 201, 202, 301) shown in Figure 4a may optionally include a grout section (451) at or near the top side (107) of the tiles (100, 201, 202, 301). The grout sections (451) may all be substantially rectangular as seen at or near the top side (107) of the first interlocking contour (104). The rectangular grout section (451) may be located over the entire first connecting contour (104) of one tile (100, 201, 202, 301) in FIG. 4a, or may be located over both the first and third connecting contours (104, 106) of two adjacent tiles (100, 201, 202, 301). However, it is also conceivable to apply rounded grout sections (451) as shown at or near the upper side (107) of the third connecting contour (106) in FIG. 4a. One advantage of these rounded grout sections (451) is that water spilling over the upper side (107) of the tile (100, 201, 202, 301) naturally flows towards the lowest part of the rounded grout section, thereby preventing water from pooling between the two adjacent tiles (100, 201, 202, 301). Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that any combination of grout sections (451) and / or bevel sections (450) is applicable.

[0087] Figures 5a-5c show cross sections of two multi-purpose tiles (100, 201, 202, 301) in the first, second and third interlocking states, respectively, as shown in Figures 1a, 2a or 3a. Figures 5a and 5b show the mutual interlocking of the first and third interlocking profiles (104, 106), respectively. Figure 5a shows the interlocking of the first tile (100, 201, 202, 301) on the right side with the second tile (100, 201, 202, 301) on the left side, where the first tile (100, 201, 202, 301) is cross-sectioned along line AA and the second tile (100, 201, 202, 301) is cross-sectioned along line BB. Figure 5b shows the connection of a first tile (100, 201, 202, 301) on the right side with a second tile (100, 201, 202, 301) on the left side, where the first tile (100, 201, 202, 301) is cross-sectional along line AA and the second tile (100, 201, 202, 301) is also cross-sectional along line AA. Figure 5c shows the connection of the second and third connecting contours (105, 106) to each other. FIG. 5c shows a connection between a first tile (100, 201, 202, 301) on the right and a second tile (100, 201, 202, 301) on the left, where the first tile (100, 201, 202, 301) is a cross section taken along line BB and the second tile (100, 201, 202, 301) is also a cross section taken along line BB.

[0088] As seen in Figures 5a and 5b, in the connected state, at least a portion of the lateral tongue (400) of the first connecting contour (104) of the tile (100, 201, 202, 301) is inserted into the third recess (430) of the third connecting contour (106) of the adjacent tile (100, 201, 202, 301), and at least a portion of the upward locking element (433) of the third connecting contour (106) is inserted into the first downward recess (402) of the first connecting contour (104). To establish the fixation of the mutual position of the first connecting contour (104) and the third connecting contour (106), a part of the bottom side (405) of the lateral tongue (400), in particular the first bottom side contact part (405') of the first connecting contour (104), may thereby be supported by the support surface (500) of the third recess (430) of the third connecting contour (106), in particular by the second support part (500a) of the support surface (500). In the connected state, the first side (101) and the third side (103) define a first closing surface (501). The first closing surface (501) is defined as a first vertical plane (502) passing through the upper side (503) of each connected tile (100, 201, 202, 301). In particular, the third closing surface (430) of the third side (103) abuts the first closing surface (425) of the first side (101). Thus, the first closing surface (501) defined by the first vertical plane (502) is located between the third closing surface (430) and the first closing surface (425). This causes each of the lateral tongues (400) and the third recess (430) to extend through the first vertical plane (502).

[0089] At least a portion of the lateral tongue (400), in particular the distal portion, extends beyond the left side of the first vertical surface (502) and is clamped between a portion of the support surface (500), in particular the first support portion (500a), and a portion of the upper lip contact portion (424). This clamping can be achieved in various ways. In particular, it is conceivable to make the thickness of the lateral tongue (400), defined by a vertical line and / or portion extending substantially vertically from the bottom side contact portion (405') towards the lateral tongue contact portion (409), larger than a vertical line and / or portion extending from the third support portion (500a) to a portion of the upper lip contact portion (424), in particular a portion of the upper lip contact portion (424) located vertically above the third support portion (500a). The different thicknesses may be the result of a small angular difference (i.e., an angular difference of about 1 degree) between the first and second angles, where the first angle may be defined by the upper portion (107) and the lateral tongue contact portion (409) and the second angle may be defined by the upper portion (107) and the upper lip contact portion (424). This thickness difference allows the lateral tongue (400) to clamp and vertically lock the tiles (100, 201, 202, 301) together. It is also conceivable that the shape of the lateral tongue (400) follows the contour of the inner portion of the third recess (430) so that in the locked position, the lateral tongue (400) fits closely into the inner portion of the third recess (430) to vertically lock the two tiles (100, 201, 202, 301) together. In the locked configuration, to the left of the tip (444) of the lateral tongue (400), there is a first gap (506). This gap (506) makes it easier to couple and uncouple the two tiles (100, 201, 202, 301), especially since the coupling and uncoupling of the first and third coupling profiles (104, 106) occurs under an angular movement of the lateral tongue (400) being angled into or out of the third recess (430).During this angling movement, the gap (506) allows the tip (444) of the lateral tongue (506) to move and prevents the lateral tongue (400) from remaining stationary as a result of friction between the tip (444) of the lateral tongue (400) and the third recess (430). Furthermore, during this angling movement, which couples or uncouples the first and third interlocking profiles (104, 106), the bottom side contact portion (405') acts as a sliding line contact. This line contact allows the bottom side contact portion (405') to easily slide over the support surface (500) of the third interlocking profile (106). In the coupled position, the bottom side contact portion (405') is supported by the third support portion (500a). Towards the heel (404) of the lateral tongue (400), in the interlocking configuration of the first and third interlocking profiles (104, 106), a (triangular) second gap (507) may be present. This second gap (507) increases the available space for the lateral tongue (400) during the angulation movement, and therefore results in easier interlocking of the first and third interlocking profiles (104, 106). In the interlocking configuration, the first proximal side contact portion (403') abuts against the upper contact portion (434a) of the upward locking element (433), thereby locking the two tiles (100, 201, 202, 301) horizontally. This horizontal locking may be achieved by friction between the first proximal side contact portion (403') and the upper contact portion (434a) of the upward locking element (433). A third gap (508) may be present on the right side of the distal side (442) of the upward locking element (433) facing away from the third recess (430) in the interlocking configuration of the first and third interlocking contours (104, 106). The third gap (508) defines an open space (508) between the first downward flank (401) and the lower lip (432), particularly the upward locking element (433). This open space (508) allows for easier downward movement of the panel. This is because friction between the first downward flank (401) and the distal side (442) of the upward locking element (433), which faces away from the third recess (430), is substantially reduced, and preferably eliminated altogether.

[0090] Fig. 5c further shows that in the coupled state, at least a part of the downward tongue (410) of the second coupling profile (105) is inserted into the third recess (430) of the third coupling profile (106) and at least a part of the upward locking element (433) of the third coupling profile (106) is inserted into the second downward recess (412) of the second coupling profile (105). In order to establish a fixed position of the second coupling profile (105) and the third coupling profile (106) relative to each other, a part of the bottom side (415) of the downward tongue (410), in particular the bottom side contact portion (415') of the second coupling profile (105), may thereby be supported by the support surface (500) of the third recess (430) of the third coupling profile (106), in particular by the second support portion (500b) of the support surface (500). In the interlocked state, the second side (102) and the third side (103) define a second closing surface (504). The second closing surface (504) defines a second vertical plane (505) passing through the top side (503) of each interlocked tile (100, 201, 202, 301). The fourth locking element (418), or at least a portion thereof, and the remaining portion of the downward tongue (410) are located on either side of the second vertical plane (505), and the third recess (430) extends through the second vertical plane (505). The connection of the second and third connecting contours (105, 106) can be achieved by lowering or folding the second connecting contour (105), in particular the downward tongue (410), into the third connecting contour (106) of the adjacent tile (100, 201, 202, 301), in particular into the third recess (430). In this example, a chamfer (bevel) is provided on the top side (107) of both the second connecting contour (105) and the third connecting contour (106) near the second vertical surface (505) of the top side (107). These two chamfers form a bevel with each other at the vertical surface (505). On either side of the vertical face of the tile (100, 201, 202, 301), near the top side (107), a third closing surface (420) of the third interlocking profile (106) abuts the vertical upper wall (417) of the second interlocking profile (105). Near the bottom of the vertical wall (417) there is a cutout (408) which forms a recess extending in a direction away from the second vertical face (505).The cutout (408) is particularly adapted to receive the fourth locking element (418) during the downward folding movement to provide a vertical lock. In the coupled state, at least a portion of the fourth locking element (418) is located on the side of the second vertical surface (505) opposite the downward tongue (410). To ensure that the entirety of the fourth locking element (418) is received by the cutout (408), the cutout (408) is larger than the fourth locking element (418). The maximum width of the fourth locking element (418), measured perpendicularly to and from the vertical upper wall (417), is preferably between 0.008 mm and 0.12 mm. The bottom side contact portion (415') of the second interlocking profile (105) is supported by a portion of the support surface (500) of the third interlocking profile (106). In particular, the bottom side contact portion (415') is supported by the second support portion (500b). To the right of the bottom side contact portion (415') is located the cutout portion (414'). The cutout portion (414') makes the decoupling movement easier. The cutout portion (414') allows, in particular, the downward tongue (410) to move over the proximal side (434) of the upward locking element (433), in particular over its third upper and third lower contact portions (434a, 434b). The third lower contact portion (434b) functions to achieve a horizontal lock of the downward tongue (410) in combination with the second proximal contact portion (413'). This horizontal lock may be the result of friction between the third lower contact portion (434b) and the second proximal contact portion (413'). The second proximal contact portion (413') may enclose a certain angle with the upper portion (107), which may be up to 70 degrees, but preferably remains below 65 degrees. By keeping said angle below this level, decoupling of the second and third interlocking contours (105, 106) may be made easier. Furthermore, the shape of the downward tongue (410) may be such that, in the interlocked configuration, it is clamped by the third interlocking contour (106), particularly between its third closing surface (420) and the third lower contact portion (434b).In the mating state, a fourth gap (509) remains near the distal side (442) of the upward locking element (433). During the downward folding movement, the neck, i.e., the thinnest part of the second mating contour (105), undergoes minimal elastic deformation. This allows the second locking element (422) to move over the third locking element (440) formed by the outward bulge (443). In the final position, i.e., when the two tiles (100, 201, 202, 301) are flush, the third locking element (440) includes a bulge (443) having a sloped, substantially flat third locking surface (440'), and the second locking element (422) includes a recess (423) partially defined by a sloped, substantially flat second locking surface (422'). The recess (423) is configured to receive at least a portion of the bulge (443), and the second locking surface (422') faces the third locking surface (440') and is preferably configured to cooperate with the third locking surface (440').

[0091] Ordinal numbers such as "first," "second," "third," etc., used in this document are used for identification purposes only. Thus, the use of the expressions "third locking element" and "second locking element," therefore, does not necessarily require that a "first locking element" be present as well.

[0092] The tiles of the tile system according to the invention may also be referred to as panels. The core layer may also be referred to as a base layer and may consist of several sublayers, which may include a reinforcing layer, for example a fiberglass layer. The interlocking profiles may also be referred to as joints or connection profiles. "Complementary" interlocking profiles mean that they can cooperate with each other. However, for this purpose, complementary interlocking profiles do not necessarily have a complementary form. Locking "vertically" means locking in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the tiles, and locking "horizontally" means locking in a direction perpendicular to the respective interlocking edges of the two tiles and parallel or coincident with the plane defined by the tiles. In this document, when "floor tiles" or "floor panels" are mentioned, these expressions may be replaced with expressions such as "tiles", "wall tiles", "ceiling tiles", "covering tiles", "panels", "wall panels", "ceiling panels", "covering panels". In the context of this document, "foam composite" and "foamed plastic material" (or "expandable plastic material") are interchangeable and, in fact, a foam composite comprises a foamed mixture comprising at least one (thermo)plastic material and at least one filler (non-polymeric material).

[0093] The inventive concepts described above are illustrated by several exemplary embodiments. It is envisaged that the individual inventive concepts of the embodiments may be applied without applying other details of the embodiments in application. It is not necessary to detail all possible combinations of the inventive concepts described, since a person skilled in the art will understand that many inventive concepts can be combined (recombined) to reach a specific application. It is expressly emphasized here that among the features mentioned above and referred to in the claims as filed, any combination of mathematical combinations is possible, as long as they do not involve contradictory properties. Thus, this application also forms a pool of possibilities for the subject matter described in the claims.

[0094] It will become apparent that the invention is not limited to the embodiments shown and described herein, but is capable of numerous variations within the scope of the appended claims which will be apparent to a person skilled in the art.

[0095] The verb "comprise" and its conjugations as used in this patent publication are understood to mean not only "comprise," but also "contain," "substantially consist of," "formed by," and conjugations thereof.

Claims

1. A multi-purpose tile system, comprising a plurality of multi-purpose tiles, wherein said tiles, at least one first side having a first connecting outer shape, and said first connecting outer shape, a lateral tongue portion extending in a direction substantially parallel to the upper side portion of said tile, at least one first downward flange provided away from said lateral tongue portion, a first downward recess formed between said lateral tongue portion and said first downward flange, and including a first side; at least one second side having a second connecting outer shape, and said second connecting outer shape, a downward tongue portion extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the upper side portion of said tile, at least one second downward flange provided away from said downward tongue portion, a second downward recess formed between said downward tongue portion and said downward flange, at least one second locking element provided on said second downward flange of said second connecting outer shape, and including a second side; at least one third side having a third connecting outer shape, and said third connecting outer shape, configured to accommodate at least a part of said lateral tongue portion of said first connecting outer shape in a further tile and at least a part of said downward tongue portion in a further tile, and a third recess defined by an upper lip portion and a lower lip portion, wherein an upward locking element is provided on said lower lip portion, at least one third locking element provided on a distal side portion of said lower lip portion facing away from said third recess and / or on a distal side portion of said upward locking element facing away from said third recess, and including a third side; a proximal side portion of said upward locking element of said third connecting outer shape facing said third recess is inclined upwardly as a whole in a direction opposite to said upper lip portion, and the proximal side portion of said upward locking element includes a third lower contact portion extending in a first direction and a third upper contact portion extending in a second direction deviating from said first direction; said first connecting outer shape and said third connecting outer shape are configured such that two such tiles can be connected to each other at said first side and said third side by a rotational movement, and in a connected state, at least a part of said lateral tongue portion of said first connecting outer shape in said tile is inserted into said third recess of said third connecting outer shape in an adjacent tile, At least a part of the upward locking element of the third connecting profile is inserted into the first downward recess of the first connecting profile. The proximal side portion of the lateral tongue, which faces the first downward flange, co-acts with the third upper contact portion of the upward locking element of the third connecting profile. The second connecting profile and the third connecting profile are configured such that two such tiles can be connected to each other at the second side and the third side. In the connected state, At least a part of the downward tongue of the second connecting profile is inserted into the third recess of the third connecting profile in an adjacent tile. At least a part of the upward locking element of the third connecting profile is inserted into the second downward recess of the second connecting profile. At least one of the second locking elements faces at least one of the third locking elements to achieve a vertical locking effect. The proximal side portion of the downward tongue, which faces the second downward flange in the second connecting profile, co-acts with the third lower contact portion of the upward locking element of the third connecting profile. The lateral tongue includes a tip facing away from the first downward flange and a heel portion facing the first downward flange. The bottom side portion of the lateral tongue, which is located between the tip and the heel portion, slopes upward in a direction toward the first downward flange. A tile system, wherein an angle enclosed by a direction in which the bottom side portion of the lateral tongue extends and a surface defined by the tile is between 2° and 10°.

2. The third lower contact portion is connected to the third upper contact portion. The third lower contact portion extends in the first direction, and the third upper contact portion extends in the second direction deviating from the first direction, and / or The third lower contact portion is connected to the third upper contact portion via at least one intermediate curved section. The third lower contact portion extends in the first direction, and the third upper contact portion extends in the second direction deviating from the first direction. The tile system according to claim 1.

3. The first angle enclosed by the first direction in which the third lower contact portion extends and the surface defined by the tile is greater than the second angle enclosed by the second direction in which the third upper contact portion extends and the surface defined by the tile, the tile system according to claim 1.

4. The angle enclosed by the first direction in which the third lower contact portion extends and the surface defined by the tile is between 50° and 85°, and / or The angle enclosed by the second direction in which the third upper contact portion extends and the surface defined by the tile is between 30° and 65°, the tile system according to claim 1.

5. In the connection state of the first connection outer shape and the third connection outer shape of the tiles adjacent to each other, the proximal side portion of the side tongue portion facing the first downward flange coacts only with the third upper contact portion of the upward locking element of the third connection outer shape, and / or In the connection state of the second connection outer shape and the third connection outer shape of the tiles adjacent to each other, the proximal side portion of the downward tongue portion facing the second downward flange coacts only with the third lower contact portion of the upward locking element of the third connection outer shape, the tile system according to claim 1.

6. At the heel portion of the downward tongue portion defined by the bottom side portion and the proximal side portion of the downward tongue portion, a cutout portion is provided to facilitate the disconnection of the second connection outer shape and the third connection outer shape, the tile system according to claim 1.

7. The first side and the third side define a first closed surface in the connected state, and the first closed surface defines a first vertical plane passing through the upper sides of the connected tiles or at least the portions where the tiles contact each other at the upper portions of the tiles, the tile system according to claim 1.

8. The second side and the third side define a second closed surface in the connected state, and the second closed surface defines a second vertical plane passing through the upper sides of the connected tiles or at least the portions where the tiles contact each other at the upper portions of the tiles, the tile system according to claim 1.

9. A fourth locking element is provided at the distal side portion of the downward tongue portion facing the side opposite to the second downward flange, A fifth locking element is provided on the upper lip portion of the third connecting outer shape, and the fifth locking element is configured to achieve a vertical locking effect in a connected state of the second connecting outer shape and the third connecting outer shape of the tiles adjacent to each other and facing the fourth locking element. The tile system according to claim 1.

10. The upper side portion of the lower lip portion defines a support surface for both the downward tongue portion of the second connecting outer shape in the adjacent tile and the lateral tongue portion of the first connecting outer shape in the adjacent tile. The tile system according to claim 1.

11. The first connecting outer shape and the third connecting outer shape are configured such that their connecting outer shapes become unconnected by a movement of rotating upward in a connected state, and / or The second connecting outer shape and the third connecting outer shape are configured such that their connecting outer shapes become unconnected by a movement of rotating upward in a connected state. The tile system according to claim 1.

12. The third locking element includes at least one outward bulge, The second locking element includes at least one second locking recess, The outward bulge and the second locking recess have substantially complementary shapes. The tile system according to claim 1.

13. At least one second locking element of the second connecting outer shape is provided at a distal side portion of the downward tongue portion facing away from the second downward recess, At least one third locking element of the third connecting outer shape is provided at a side portion of the upper lip portion and, in a connected state, at a side portion facing a distal side portion of the downward tongue portion of the second connecting outer shape in an adjacent tile. The tile system according to claim 1.

14. At least a part of the proximal side portion of the downward tongue portion of the second connecting outer shape facing the second downward recess is inclined downward in a direction facing away from the second downward flange, and / or At least a part of the proximal side portion of the lateral tongue portion of the first connecting outer shape facing the first downward recess is inclined downward in a direction facing away from the first downward flange. The tile system according to claim 1.

15. At least a part of the proximal side of the lateral tongue of the first connecting outer shape, which faces the first downward concave portion, is inclined downward toward the first downward flange, according to the tile system of claim 1.

16. The first connecting outer shape and the third connecting outer shape are configured such that the first connecting outer shape is clamped by the third connecting outer shape in the connected state, and / or The second connecting outer shape and the third connecting outer shape are configured such that the second connecting outer shape is clamped by the third connecting outer shape in the connected state, according to the tile system of claim 1.

17. In the connected state of the tiles, the first downward flange of the first connecting outer shape and the upward locking element and / or the distal side of the lower lip of the third connecting outer shape, which faces the first downward flange, are located away from each other, and / or In the connected state of the tiles, the second downward flange of the second connecting outer shape and the upward locking element and / or the distal side of the lower lip of the third connecting outer shape, which faces the second downward flange, are at least partially located away from each other, according to the tile system of claim 1.

18. At least a part of the upper side of the upward locking element is inclined downward in the direction toward the side opposite to the upper lip of the third connecting outer shape, and / or At least a part of the upper side of the first downward concave portion is inclined downward toward the first downward flange, and / or At least a part of the upper side of the second downward concave portion is inclined downward toward the second downward flange, according to the tile system of claim 1.

19. In the connected state of two tiles, the upper side of the upward locking element of the third connecting outer shape is located away from the upper side of the first downward concave portion of the first connecting outer shape, In the connected state of two tiles, the upper side of the upward locking element of the third connecting outer shape is located away from the upper side of the second downward concave portion of the second connecting outer shape, according to the tile system of claim 1.

20. A multi-purpose tile system, Including a plurality of multi-purpose tiles, At least one first tile includes at least one first side having a first connecting outer shape, and the first connecting outer shape is A side tongue portion extending in a direction substantially parallel to the upper side portion of the tile, at least one first downward flange provided away from the side tongue portion, and a first downward recess formed between the side tongue portion and the first downward flange, at least one second tile includes at least one second side having a second connecting outer shape, and the second connecting outer shape, a downward tongue portion extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the upper side portion of the tile, at least one second downward flange provided away from the downward tongue portion, and a second downward recess formed between the downward tongue portion and the downward flange, at least one second locking element provided on the second downward flange of the second connecting outer shape, at least one third tile includes at least one third side having a third connecting outer shape, and the third connecting outer shape, is configured to accommodate at least a part of the side tongue portion of the first connecting outer shape in a further tile, and is a third recess defined by an upper lip portion and a lower lip portion, and an upward locking element is provided on the lower lip portion, at least one third locking element provided on a distal side portion of the lower lip portion facing away from the third recess and / or on a distal side portion of the upward locking element facing away from the third recess, a proximal side portion of the upward locking element of the third connecting outer shape facing the third recess is inclined upwardly as a whole in a direction opposite to the upper lip portion, and the proximal side portion of the upward locking element includes a third lower contact portion extending in a first direction and a third upper contact portion extending in a second direction, the first connecting outer shape and the third connecting outer shape are configured such that two such tiles can be connected to each other at the first side and the third side by a rotational movement, and in the connected state, at least a part of the side tongue portion of the first connecting outer shape in the first tile is inserted into the third recess of the third connecting outer shape in the third tile, at least a part of the upward locking element of the third connecting outer shape is inserted into the first downward recess of the first connecting outer shape, The proximal portion of the lateral tongue portion facing the first downward flange coacts with the third upper contact portion of the upward locking element of the third connecting profile. The second connecting profile and the third connecting profile are configured such that two such tiles can be connected to each other at the second side and the third side. In the connected state, At least a part of the downward tongue portion of the second connecting profile in the second tile is inserted into the third recess of the third connecting profile in the third tile. At least a part of the upward locking element of the third connecting profile is inserted into the second downward recess of the second connecting profile. At least one of the second locking elements realizes a locking effect in the vertical direction facing at least one of the third locking elements. The proximal portion of the downward tongue portion facing the second downward flange in the second connecting profile coacts with the third lower contact portion of the upward locking element of the third connecting profile. The first tile and / or the second tile and / or the third tile may be formed of the same tile. The lateral tongue portion includes a tip facing away from the first downward flange and a heel portion facing the first downward flange. The bottom side portion of the lateral tongue portion located between the tip and the heel portion slopes upward in the direction toward the first downward flange. A tile system, wherein an angle formed by the direction in which the bottom side portion of the lateral tongue portion extends and the surface defined by the tile is between 2° and 10°.

21. A tile covering material comprising tiles interconnected in the tile system according to claim 1.

22. A tile for use in the multi-purpose tile system according to claim 1.

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