Sets of panels and associated assemblies

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a set of panels comprising a first panel (1) and a second panel (2) configured to assume a locked state, in which a first major plane (M1) of the first panel is disposed at an angle (φ) of 30° to 150°, for example 45° to 135°, relative to a second major plane (M2) of the second panel, wherein a separate tongue (6) arranged in an insertion groove (5) in a groove (3) of the first panel is configured to cooperate with a locking portion (7a) of the recess (7) in the edge section (4) of the second panel to lock the first panel (1) and the second panel (2) together in a first direction (X) perpendicular to the first major plane (M1), and the edge section is configured to cooperate with the groove (3) to lock the first panel (1) and the second panel (2) together in a second direction (Y) parallel to the first major plane (M1). The locking portion is arranged at a locking angle of less than 45° relative to the second main plane and / or the first direction.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a panel set comprising a first panel and a second panel configured to be locked to one another at an angle between 30° and 150°, e.g., essentially perpendicular, by a mechanical locking device. The panels may be assembled and locked to one another to provide an assembly. [Background technology]

[0002] WO2019 / 203720A1 discloses a set with a mechanical locking device for locking a first panel and a second panel together. The first panel has a first edge surface and a first panel surface, and the second panel has a second edge surface and a second panel surface. The mechanical locking device comprises an insertion groove at the second edge surface, a flexible tongue arranged in the insertion groove, and an edge tongue with a tongue groove. The first locking surface of the flexible tongue is configured to cooperate with the tongue groove to lock the first panel and the second panel in the first direction when the flexible tongue is arranged in the insertion groove in a first orientation. The second locking surface of the flexible tongue is configured to cooperate with the tongue groove to lock the first panel and the second panel in the first direction when the flexible tongue is arranged in the insertion groove in a second orientation.

[0003] Attempts have been made to develop techniques accurate enough to form parts of mechanical locking devices at a distance from the corner regions of the panel, for example from its midsection. However, currently available relevant machines are typically not inherently adapted to operate at a relatively large distance from the corner regions, and often resort to suboptimal solutions. Furthermore, forming at least a part of a mechanical locking device in panels made of lighter materials, or panels of somewhat lower quality, can be difficult. As an example, the dimensional accuracy of such panels is not always fully satisfactory, which can complicate the formation of a reliable mechanical locking device. One known solution is to measure the dimensions of the panel, for example the panel thickness, and thereby adjust the working distance of a processing tool relative to the panel accordingly. However, the solutions presented so far often involve cumbersome, costly and time-consuming operations. Summary of the Invention

[0004] It is therefore an objective of at least embodiments of the present disclosure to provide a set of panels with mechanical locking devices that are compatible with panels having relatively large variations in thickness and / or that are compatible with being mounted within the face of the panels.

[0005] Another object of at least embodiments of the present disclosure is to provide a set of panels in accordance with any of the above-mentioned objects while providing sufficiently high locking strength and / or good locking functionality.

[0006] It is yet another object of at least embodiments of the present disclosure to provide a set of panels in accordance with any of the above-mentioned objects while simplifying the formation of a mechanical locking device.

[0007] It is also an object to provide a corresponding assembly.

[0008] These and other objects and advantages which will become apparent from the present specification are accomplished by the various aspects, embodiments and examples described below.

[0009] According to one aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a set of panels comprising a first panel and a second panel configured to assume a locked state, the first major plane of the first panel being disposed at an angle of 30°-150°, e.g. 45°-135°, relative to a second major plane of the second panel in the locked state. The set comprises a groove in the first panel, an edge section of the second panel, an insertion groove in the groove of the first panel, and a recess in the edge section of the second panel, with a separate, preferably flexible, tongue disposed in the insertion groove. The separate tongue is configured to cooperate with the locking portion of the recess to lock the first and second panels together in a first direction perpendicular to the first major plane, and the edge section of the second panel is configured to cooperate with the groove of the first panel to lock the first and second panels together in a second direction parallel to the first major plane and extending towards a side edge surface of the first panel. The locking portion is disposed at a locking angle of less than 45° relative to the second major plane and / or relative to the first direction.

[0010] According to the first aspect, the size of the locking portion along the second main plane and / or the first direction can be larger than that of a locking portion arranged at a higher locking angle, for example. At least a part of the locking portion is more aligned with respect to the second main plane. As a result, during locking and / or in the locked state, the separate tongue can be arranged along a larger part of the recess while providing a good locking function. Also, the dimensional tolerance of the mechanical locking device, such as a groove and / or an insert groove (often abbreviated as "locking device" in this specification), along the second main plane and / or the first direction can be larger. Thus, a locking device is obtained that is suitable for panels with relatively large thickness variations. Thickness variations of more than ±0.2 mm can be tolerated, for example at least ±0.3 mm, at least ±0.6 mm, or even at least ±0.8 mm. This is a substantial improvement and should be contrasted with known locking devices, which generally tolerate less than ±0.2 mm.

[0011] Also, allowing for greater thickness variation may result in simpler locking of the locking device. For example, as detailed elsewhere herein, during at least a portion of the forming process, the grooves and insert grooves may be formed in the first panel by a first groove tool and / or a second groove tool that are positioned a fixed distance from a support member on which the first panel may be mounted.

[0012] Also, although the locking angle is less than 45°, a sufficiently high locking strength of the locking device may be provided in many applications, for example when the groove is provided on the inside of the face of the panel, although in some applications the locking device may also be suitable for corner sections of panels where the groove may be provided on the edge of the first panel.

[0013] Throughout this disclosure, when referring to a "panel," a first panel and a second panel may be included as examples of such a "panel." Generally herein, a first panel may include a pair of edges and an interior spaced apart from the edges and disposed therebetween.

[0014] The panels may be substantially rectangular or square. Each panel may include a pair of faces and a pair of side edge surfaces extending between the faces. Additionally, each panel may include a pair of sides extending between the faces and between the side edge surfaces. The side edge surfaces may be provided at respective edges or edge sections of each panel.

[0015] The first and second main planes may be arranged at an angle of 30° to 150°, for example approximately 90°, preferably along a third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions, as viewed in a (cross-sectional) side view.

[0016] The panels, such as the first panel and the second panel, can be components adapted to be assembled into an assembly, such as a box or a furniture assembly.

[0017] Generally herein, cooperating elements (e.g., separate tongues and recesses, edge sections and grooves, mating grooves and corners, or overlaps and faces) may cooperate by direct engagement or indirect engagement. In any of the embodiments described herein, there may be a sealant, such as wax, silicone, rubber strips, or adhesive, between the cooperating elements. This provides an example of indirect engagement.

[0018] The groove may be provided on the interior of the first face of the first panel such that opposing groove walls of the groove may be substantially rigid, as compared to, for example, a groove provided at an edge of a panel where the outer groove walls may have some flexibility, see WO2019 / 203720A1.

[0019] Typically, the requirements for the locking strength of mechanical locking devices provided on the interior of a panel may be less stringent than those provided on corner sections. For example, by assembling additional panels to the first and / or second panel, the locking strength and / or locking function of the internal locking devices can be further increased or improved.

[0020] The insertion groove may be provided at an angle of 18° to 45°, for example 20° to 30°, with respect to the first main plane.

[0021] The stop may be planar.

[0022] In some embodiments, the locking angle may not exceed 40°. The locking angle may be between 20° and 40° or between 30° and 40°, for example between 20° and 30°. If the locking angle is less than 20°, there is a risk that the locking strength will be too low, at least in some embodiments.

[0023] The relative angle between the locking portion and the insertion groove in the locked state can be 15° to 50°, for example 20° to 45° or 20° to 30°.

[0024] The edge section may, in the locked state, preferably be spaced apart from the bottom of the groove. This may result in a simpler manufacturing process, as it is less dependent on having a precise groove depth, for example, for the first face of the first panel. Furthermore, the space may accommodate deformations of the panel that may be induced by temperature and / or moisture variations. In view of the above, an improved, e.g., more fail-safe, assembly and / or locking function of the panels may be provided.

[0025] The outer side of the separate tongue may be curved or may include a slope, which may reduce the need for precise positioning of the separate tongue along the recess and provide more control over the operation of the locking device during assembly.

[0026] The first major plane may be disposed essentially perpendicular to the second major plane, and thus the angle between the first and second major planes may be approximately 90°.

[0027] The thickness of the first panel defined by the first and second faces of the first panel may preferably vary by more than ±0.2 mm relative to the nominal thickness value. The locking strength and locking function of the mechanical locking device according to the first aspect may be good even with such thickness variations. The thickness may vary, for example, by more than ±0.2 mm relative to the nominal thickness value. The thickness of the panels in the present disclosure, for example the thickness of the first panel and optionally the second panel, may be measured according to the standards described in EN 324-1:1993 or SS-EN 14322:2017.

[0028] In some embodiments, the thickness may vary by at least ±0.3 mm, or at least ±0.6 mm, such as at least ±0.8 mm. For example, the thickness variation may be within the range of ±0.2 to ±3 mm, such as ±0.3 to ±2 mm.

[0029] Throughout this disclosure, the term "greater than ±0.2 mm" may be interpreted as either greater than 0.2 mm and / or less than -0.2 mm, as well as other values ​​herein, such as "greater than 0.3, 0.6 or 0.8".

[0030] The first and / or second panel may include a core layer and optionally a decorative structure, such as a decorative layer attached to the core layer. When the panel is provided with a decorative structure, it is difficult or sometimes impossible to calibrate the thickness of the panel by molding or finishing before forming the locking device. Thus, in at least some embodiments, the thickness of the panel may vary, for example, if the thickness of the core layer varies. This type of panel or core layer may be formed by casting, for example using an autoclave, with optional application of heat and pressure, or by extrusion, with optional use of rollers to calibrate the rough thickness. Non-limiting examples include panels or core layers made of acrylic glass (PMMA) sheets and extruded panels or extruded core layers, preferably made of a thermoplastic material such as PVC.

[0031] The first panel and / or the second panel may have a layered configuration with at least two core layers, for example three core layers. For example, the core layers may be bonded together by adhesive, lamination, for example, optionally with a heated roller, or coextrusion. The variation in thickness of the individual core layers may be large in a layered configuration. Typically, it may be expensive and / or difficult to calibrate the thickness of this type of panel. Non-limiting examples include laminated panels, such as compressed laminate panels, mineral composite panels, plywood-based panels, or coextruded panels.

[0032] Thus, to reiterate the above, the locking device according to the first aspect may be adapted to be provided on panels having a relatively large variation in thickness, for example according to any of the embodiments described above.

[0033] Generally herein, the combined thickness of the core layer or layers and optionally the decorative structure may correspond to the thickness of the panel.

[0034] The panels may be lightweight panels. In some embodiments, the first panel and / or the second panel may comprise a sandwich core, such as a honeycomb core. The sandwich core may comprise at least two layers, or at least two ribbons. The sandwich core may be constructed from a paper material, or a card material, such as corrugated board.

[0035] The first and / or second panels, e.g., the core layers thereof, may be composed of a sandwich core, a plywood board, a particle board, a board made of solid wood, a high density fiberboard (HDF) board, or a medium density fiberboard (MDF) board. The dimensions, e.g., thickness, of these core layers are prone to change due to their material composition itself, e.g., due to their manufacturing process, or because their material composition is susceptible to change under temperature and / or moisture fluctuations. In some embodiments, at least two, e.g., three, core layers of the above-mentioned panels may be partially or entirely composed of the above. For example, the first and / or second panels may be composed of a board-on-frame (BOF) member, preferably comprising a sandwich core sandwiched between two outer core layers. Optionally, a decorative structure may be placed on the outer core layers.

[0036] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure there is provided an assembly comprising a set of panels suitably according to any of the embodiments of the first aspect. The assembly may be a box such as a chest or coffin, or may provide a furniture assembly such as a kitchen fixture, bookcase, cupboard, wardrobe, drawer, etc.

[0037] The embodiments and examples of the second aspect are very similar to those of the first aspect, so please refer to these.

[0038] Overall, all terms used herein, including the claims, are to be interpreted according to their ordinary meaning in the art, unless expressly defined otherwise. All references to "a / an / the [element, apparatus, component, means, step, etc.]" are to be openly interpreted as referring to at least one example of that element, apparatus, component, means, step, etc., unless expressly stated otherwise. References to one or more, such as "at least one element," or to "one or two of two elements" may be abbreviated to "element."

[0039] The present disclosure will now be described in more detail with respect to exemplary embodiments and with reference to the accompanying exemplary drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0040] [Figure 1a] 1 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a set of panels in a locked state. [Figure 1b] 1 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a set of panels in an unlocked state. [Figure 1c] 1 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a set of panels in an unlocked state. [Figure 1d] 1A-1C show a top view (left) and a cross-sectional side view (right) of an embodiment of a separate tongue that may be used to lock the panels of, for example, FIGS. 1a-1c. [Figure 2a] FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional side view of the set of panels of FIGS. 1a-1c along line BB. [Figure 2b] FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional side view of the set of panels of FIGS. 1a-1c along line CC. [Figure 2c] FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional side view of the set of panels of FIGS. 1a-1c along line AA. [Figure 2d] FIG. 2c shows an enlarged cross-sectional side view of the panel. [Figure 3a] 1 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a set of panels. [Figure 3b] 1 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of a set of panels. [Figure 3c]1 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of a set of panels. [Figure 3d] 1 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of a set of panels. [Figure 4a] 1 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of an assembly, such as a furniture assembly. [Figure 4b] FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of an embodiment of an assembly, such as a furniture assembly. [Figure 4c] 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of an arrangement for forming a mechanical locking device for a panel. [Figure 4d] 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of an arrangement for forming a mechanical locking device for a panel. [Figure 4e] 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a panel. [Figure 5a] 4c and 4d are cross-sectional side views of an embodiment of the arrangement. [Figure 5b] 4c and 4d are cross-sectional side views of an embodiment of the arrangement. [Figure 5c] 4c and 4d and 5a and 5b show cross-sectional side views of an embodiment of a panel obtained by the arrangement of FIG. [Figure 5d] 4c and 4d and 5a and 5b show cross-sectional side views of an embodiment of a panel obtained by the arrangement of FIG. [Figure 5e] 4c and 4d and 5a and 5b show cross-sectional side views of an embodiment of a panel obtained by the arrangement of FIG. [Figure 5f] 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional side view of an assembly of a first panel and a second panel. [Figure 6a] 1 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of a set of panels in a locked state during locking. [Figure 6b] 1 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of a set of panels in a locked state. [Figure 7a] FIG. 2 shows an enlarged cross-sectional side view of a set of panels in a locked position. [Figure 7b] FIG. 1 shows an enlarged cross-sectional side view of a set of panels in a locked position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0041] Various embodiments of a panel set comprising a first panel 1 and a second panel 2 will now be described, for example with reference to the embodiments in Figures 1a-1d, 2a-2d, 3a-3d, 4a-4e, 5a-5f, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b. The panels are configured to assume a locked state in which a first major plane M1 of the first panel 1 is disposed at an angle φ of 30° to 150°, for example an angle φ of 45° to 135°, relative to a second major plane M2 of the second panel 2. In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 1a-1c, 2a-2d, 3a-3d, 4a-4e, 7a, 7b, the first major plane M1 is disposed essentially perpendicular to the second major plane M2, i.e. at 90°. In some embodiments, the first major plane M1 is disposed at an angle φ between 45° and 135° relative to the second major plane M2, as shown in Figures 6a and 6b, respectively. In any of these embodiments, the normal N1 of the first major plane M1 may be disposed at an angle φ between 30° and 150°, e.g. between 45° and 135°, e.g. angle φ=90°, relative to the normal N2 of the second major plane M2. See Figures 1b, 1c, 2c, 6a, 6b.

[0042] Generally, as shown in Figures 4a-b herein, the panels 1, 2 may be configured to be assembled into an assembly 20, which may be a box, such as a chest or coffin, or a furniture assembly, such as a kitchen fixture, bookcase, cupboard, wardrobe, drawer, etc. For example, the first panel 1 and / or the second panel 2 may be an outer panel, or an inner panel that is disposed between outer panels.

[0043] For example, as shown in Figs. 1a to 1c and 2a to 2c, the panel 1 may have a pair of first and second surfaces 1a and 1b, a pair of side edge surfaces 1c and 1d extending between the surfaces 1a and 1b, and a pair of side portions 1e and 1f extending between the surfaces and between the side edge surface 1c and the side edge surface 1d. The panel 2 may have a pair of first and second surfaces 2a and 2b, a pair of side edge surfaces 2c and 2d extending between the surfaces and between the side edge surface 2c and the side edge surface 2d, and a pair of side portions 2e and 2f extending between the surfaces and between the side edge surface 2c and the side edge surface 2d. The first surface 1a and the first surface 2a may be provided so as to be adjacent to each other in the locked state. The side edge surface 1c and the side edge surface 1d may be provided at the edge portion 9 and the edge portion 9' of the first panel 1, respectively. The side edge surfaces 2c and 2d may be provided on the edge sections 4, 4' of the second panel 2. In the locked state, the edge section 4 of the second panel 2, for example its side edge surface 2c, may face the first surface 1a of the first panel 1.

[0044] As shown in Figures 3a, 3b, each panel 1, 2 may comprise a core layer 11, 12. The first face 1a and / or the second face 1b of the first panel and / or the second panel may comprise a decorative structure 8, such as a decorative layer. Optionally, the side edge faces 1c, 1d, 2c, 2d and / or sides 1e, 1f, 2e, 2f of the panels, e.g. BOF members, may be provided with border strips or border frames.

[0045] In some embodiments, as shown in Fig. 3c and Fig. 3d, the first panel 1 and / or the second panel 2 may have a layer configuration including at least two core layers 11a, 11b, 12a, 12b. For example, as shown in Fig. 3c, the panels 1 and 2 may include two core layers 11a, 11b, 12a, 12b. Preferably, the core layers 11a, 11b, 12a, 12b have substantially the same thickness U1, U2, V1, V2 and / or are made of substantially the same material composition. This may improve the balance of the panels. Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 3d, the panels 1 and 2 may include three core layers. The core layers include outer core layers 11a, 11c, 12a, 12c attached to the opposing surfaces 15a, 15b, 16a, 16b of the central core layers 11b, 12b. Preferably, the thicknesses W1, W2 of the outer core layers 11a, 11c, 12a, 12c are less than the thicknesses Q1, Q2 of the central core layers 11b, 12b. Layered panels as described above can be envisaged in any of the embodiments herein as shown in Figures 1a-1d, 2a-2d, 3a, 3b, 4a-4e, 5a-5f, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b.

[0046] The decorative structure 8 may be provided on at least one of the core layers, for example the outer core layer.

[0047] In non-limiting examples, the central core layers 11b, 12b may comprise plywood boards, particle boards, or solid wood boards, and the outer core layers 11a, 11c, 12a, 12c may each preferably comprise MDF boards, HDF boards, solid wood boards, or veneer layers.

[0048] Any of the panels herein, for example the first panel 1 and / or the second panel 2, may comprise a sandwich core 11, 12, 11b, 12b, such as a honeycomb core, and optionally an outer core layer 11a, 11c, 12a, 12c. For example, each outer core layer may be constructed from a paper or card material and attached to the central core layer 11b, 12b, for example by an adhesive. Suitably, the panels 1, 2 also comprise a decorative structure 8, such as a decorative layer. As an example, the first panel, and optionally the second panel, may comprise a BOF member.

[0049] The thickness of any or each core layer 11, 11a, 11b, 11c, 12, 12a, 12b, 12c described herein may be at least 1 mm, preferably at least 2 mm, or at least 4 mm. For example, the thickness may be in the range of 1 to 50 mm, such as 1 to 30 mm or 2 to 22 mm, for any core layer 11, 11a, 11b, 11c, 12, 12a, 12b, 12c.

[0050] The thickness T1, T2 of each panel may be essentially constant, except for the interior 1g of panel 1, where possibly a groove 3 is provided (see below), and for one or both of the edge sections 4, 4' of panel 2. See Fig. 1b, Fig. 1c, Fig. 2a, Fig. 2b, Fig. 4a, Fig. 4b. The thickness T1, T2 may be defined by the first faces 1a, 2a and the second faces 1b, 2b of panels 1, 2, whereby the first faces 1a, 2a and the second faces 1b, 2b may be provided at an essentially constant distance from each other along a first direction X (defined below). For example, each panel may be substantially formed as a parallelepiped, for example a rectangular parallelepiped. In a non-limiting example, for example for panels 1, 2 comprising a core layer 11 and a decorative layer 8, or for layered panels 1, 2 such as those including a BOF member, T1, T2 are greater than 10 mm, for example between 16 and 50 mm, or for example between 16 and 18 mm. In some embodiments, the first panel 1 (or the second panel 2) may be thicker than the second panel 2 (or the first panel 1). For example, the first panel (or the second panel) is 0.5 to 50 mm thicker than the second panel (or the first panel), for example 5 to 10 mm thicker.

[0051] The set comprises a mechanical locking device for locking the first panel 1 and the second panel 2 together. The set comprises a groove 3 in the first panel 1, preferably in its first face 1a, preferably in an interior 1g, such as a central portion, of the first face 1a. The set further comprises an insertion groove 5 in the groove 3. A separate, preferably flexible tongue 6 is arranged in the insertion groove 5. The set further comprises an edge section 4 of the second panel and a recess 7 in the edge section 4.

[0052] The locking device may be disposed in the core layers 11, 12 or in at least a portion of the core layers 11a, 11b, 11c, 12a, 12b, 12c.

[0053] The interior 1g may be spaced from the edge 9, 9', e.g. side edge surface 1c, 1d, by at least 5%, e.g. at least 10%, of the panel length PL between the side edge surfaces 1c, 1d, and / or by at least 30mm, e.g. at least 60mm, see Figures 1b and 4b.

[0054] The first main plane M1 may be parallel to the first surface 1a and / or the second surface 1b, and the second main plane M2 may be parallel to the first surface 2a and / or the second surface 2b. Preferably, the first main plane M1 and the second main plane M2 extend along the first surface 1a and the second surface 2a, respectively.

[0055] The first panel 1 may extend in a first direction X perpendicular to the first main plane M1 and in a second direction Y parallel to the first main plane M1 and extending towards a side edge surface 1c which may be provided at an edge 9 of the first panel 1. In the locked state, the second direction Y may be parallel to a convex portion N2' of a normal N2 along the first main plane M1, see Fig. 6a, 6b. Note that when φ=90°, N2 and N2' may coincide. The first panel 1 may also extend in a third direction Z, preferably extending along the first main plane M1 and perpendicular to the first direction X and the second direction Y. Thus, the first direction X, the second direction Y and the third direction Z may be parallel to vectors that preferably extend perpendicularly between faces 1a and 1b, between edge faces 1c and 1d, and between sides 1e and 1f, respectively.

[0056] In the locked state, the protrusion N2' may be perpendicular to the rotated second main plane M2, see Fig. 6a and Fig. 6b. The rotated second main plane M2' may be obtained by rotating the second main plane M2 in a clockwise direction at an angle of 90°-φ around an axis parallel to the third direction Z. After the rotation, the main planes M1, M2 may be arranged perpendicular to each other and the first direction X may extend along M2'. Please note that the obtuse angle φ means a negative angle rotation, i.e. a positive angle φ-90° rotation in the counterclockwise direction.

[0057] The second panel 2 may extend in a third direction Z, in a direction parallel to N2 and in a direction parallel to the second main plane M2 towards a side edge surface 2d which may be provided in the edge section 4'. When φ=90°, the second panel 2 may extend along the directions X, Y in the locked state.

[0058] A first direction X and a second direction Y (and a third direction Z) are defined with respect to the first panel 1, and will typically be referred to when describing the second panel 2. For example, the directions may be used when referring to the second panel when the panels are in a locked state.

[0059] As shown in Figure 5f and shown by dashed lines in Figure 6a, the panels 1, 2 herein may be configured to lock together, preferably by an essentially linear relative displacement LD of the panels along a first direction X, when the first major plane M1 is arranged at an angle φ of 30° to 150°, for example essentially 90°, relative to the second major plane M2.

[0060] The separate tongue 6 cooperates with the locking portion 7a of the recess 7 to lock the first panel 1 and the second panel 2 together in a first direction X. Furthermore, the edge section 4 cooperates with the groove 3 to lock the first panel 1 and the second panel 2 together in a second direction Y.

[0061] The separate tongue 6 may be made of a polymeric material and preferably a reinforcing structure such as fiberglass. Furthermore, as shown diagrammatically in FIG. 1d and as can be envisaged in any of the embodiments of FIGS. 1a-1c, 2a-2d, 3a-3d, 4a-4e, 5a-5f, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, the separate tongue 6 may comprise a flexible protrusion 6c that is bendable in the transverse direction TD of the separate tongue. During locking, the separate tongue may be displaced into the insertion groove 5 and from there outwardly into the recess 7. This may include, for example, a snap action. The outward displacement may be brought about by the biasing force of the flexible protrusion 6c. The separate tongue 6 of FIG. 1d may be formed by injection moulding.

[0062] The groove 3 may have a bottom 3a and a pair of opposing, preferably parallel, groove walls 3b, 3c. The insertion groove 5 may be disposed in one of the groove walls 3b. The groove 3 may further have an opening 3d and an interior 3e. The opening 3d may be wider along the second direction Y than the interior 3e. Preferably, a second plane P2 extending along a linear extension line LE of the inner wall 5b of the insertion groove and / or the inner wall 5b is provided on or outside the first surface 1a along the first direction X. The interior 3e may be disposed at least partially inward of the opening 5c ​​of the insertion groove 5 along the first direction X. For example, as shown in Figures 1a, 1b, 2a, 2c, 3a-3d, 5a-5e, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, groove 3 may be asymmetric along a centerline CX of interior 3e extending along a first direction X, preferably as shown in a cross-sectional side view.

[0063] The edge section 4 may comprise a first edge 4a and a second edge 4b. In the locked state, the second edge 4b, preferably at least a section 4e thereof, may be configured to cooperate with the groove 3, preferably at least a segment 3f of the interior 3e. See Fig. 2a, 2b, 2d. With respect to the second panel 2, the first edge 4a may be arranged outside the second edge 4b ​​along the first direction X. With respect to the first panel 1, in the locked state, the first edge 4a, and optionally the second edge 4b, may be arranged inside the opening 5c ​​along the first direction X. Furthermore, with respect to the second panel 2, the first edge 4a is preferably tapered outwards along the first direction X. Also, the first edge 4a may be asymmetric along the midline CX in the locked state, for example due to at least a recess 7. The edge section 4 may preferably comprise a recess 4d on the second face 2b and / or on the side edge face 2c configured to receive the concealment portion 1i of the first panel 1 in the locked state. The concealment portion 1i may be provided on the outside of the groove 3 along the second direction Y, for example facing the side edge face 1c.

[0064] Preferably, at least the segment 3f of the interior 3e has an essentially constant width WG along the second direction Y. Alternatively, or preferably additionally, at least the section 4e of the second edge 4b ​​has an essentially constant width WE along the second direction Y as defined in the locked state. The constant width WG and / or WE of the segment 3f and / or section 4e may extend along the first direction X, for example corresponding to at least 5% or at least 10% of the depth D of the groove 3, which is preferably defined as the distance from the first face 1a to the bottom 3a of the groove. See FIG. 5a. In the locked state, the segment 3f and / or section 4e may be provided along the first direction X of the insertion groove 5, for example towards the inside of the opening 5c.

[0065] The insertion groove 5 may extend along the second direction Y and preferably along the first direction X. In practice, the insertion groove 5 is preferably inclined with respect to the main plane M1. The insertion groove 5 may comprise a pair of oppositely arranged, preferably parallel, inner walls 5a, 5b. See for example Fig. 1d and Fig. 2a. Preferably, the separate tongue 6 is displaceably arranged in the insertion groove 5, for example by being linearly displaceable along the direction L. During locking, the separate tongue 6 is displaced into the insertion groove 5 and then leaves the insertion groove into the recess 7. During locking, the separate tongue 6 may be displaced into the insertion groove by cooperation, for example engagement, of the separate tongue with the edge section 4, for example the first edge 4a. The separate tongue may comprise two opposite displacement surfaces 6a, 6b. One or both of them may be displaceable in contact with the inner walls 5a, 5b, preferably during locking.

[0066] The recess 7 may be provided in the first face 2a of the second panel 2. With respect to the second panel 2, the recess 7 is preferably provided inwardly of the second edge 4b ​​along the first direction X. The locking portion 7a may be provided in a recess wall 7b of the recess. For example, the recess 7 may have a substantially triangular shape.

[0067] The second panel 2 may comprise a mating groove 13, preferably provided in the edge section 4 and / or in the first face 2a. The mating groove 13 may be provided along the first direction X, inwardly of the recess 7 relative to the second panel 2. The mating groove 13 may be configured to cooperate with, e.g. form a joint between, a corner 14 of the first panel 1, preferably provided in the groove wall 3b and / or in the first face 1a.

[0068] In the locked state, the first panel 1 and the second panel 2 preferably abut against each other such that surface portions 1h, 1h' of the first surface 1a provided outside the groove 3 along the second direction Y are preferably not visible, see figures 2c, 2d. For example, the overlapping portion 2h of the recess 4d may cooperate, e.g. engage, with surface portion 1h. Furthermore, section 13a of the mating groove 13 may cooperate, e.g. engage, with a section of the corner portion 14 which may form surface portion 1h'.

[0069] The cooperation of the separate tongues 6 and recesses 7, and preferably the cooperation of the mating grooves 13 and corners 14, and / or the cooperation of the overlapping portions 2h and faces 1h, may provide locking between the panels 1 and 2 in the first direction X. Furthermore, the cooperation of the second edges 4b and grooves 3, preferably the interiors 3e, and optionally the cooperation of the mating grooves 13 and corners 14 may provide locking between the panels 1 and 2 in the second direction Y.

[0070] The locking portion 7a is arranged at a locking angle α of less than 45° relative to the second main plane M2 and / or the first direction X. If the first main plane M1 and the second main plane M2 are arranged essentially perpendicular to each other, the locking angle α can be determined relative to the second main plane M2 or the first direction X. If the first main plane M1 and the second main plane M2 are arranged at an angle φ of 30° to 150° relative to each other, the locking angle α can be determined relative to the rotated second main plane M2' or the first direction X. Similarly, the recess wall 7b can be inclined at an angle α of, for example, less than 45° relative to the second main plane M2. The first plane P1 can be arranged along the locking portion 7a and / or the recess wall 7b, as shown for example in Figures 2b, 2c, 3a, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b. Either or both of the locking portion 7a and the recess wall 7b are preferably planar. This allows the first plane P1 to be angled at an angle α with respect to the second principal plane M2 (or M2'). In some embodiments, the locking angle α does not exceed 40°. For example, the locking angle α may be between 20° and 40° or between 30° and 40°, e.g., between 20° and 30°.

[0071] Thus, in the locked state, the locking portion 7a, for example the first plane P1, may be disposed at a complementary locking angle α' of more than 45° relative to the first main plane M1. Thus, in the locked state, the relationship α+α'=90° may hold.

[0072] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 7a, 7b, the stops 7a and / or the recess walls 7b may be curved, e.g., concave (Figure 7a) or convex (Figure 7b).

[0073] The insertion groove 5 may be provided at an angle β between 18° and 45° with respect to the first major plane M1. In some embodiments, the angle β may be between 20° and 30°. For example, as shown in FIGS. 2c, 2d, and 3b, a second plane P2 may be disposed along the insertion groove 5, preferably along its inner wall 5b. This allows the second plane P2 to be angled at an angle β with respect to the first major plane M1. In the non-limiting embodiment shown in FIGS. 1a, 1b, 2a, 2c, 2d, 3a, 3c, and 3d, the angle β is about 20°, and in the non-limiting embodiment shown in FIG. 3b, the angle β is about 27°.

[0074] In the locked state, the relative angle γ between the locking portion 7a and the insertion groove 5 can be 15° to 50°. In some embodiments, the relative angle γ is 20° to 45° or 20° to 30°. As a result, in the locked state, the first plane P1 and the second plane P2 can be disposed at the angle γ.

[0075] The angles α, β, γ may be determined in cross-sectional side views of the panel, such as those shown in Figures 2a-2d, 3a-3d, 5a-5f, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b.

[0076] For example, as shown in Figures 1a, 2c, 2d, 3b-3d, 6a, 6b, 7a and 7b, the edge section 4 may be spaced apart from the groove 3 by a space S in the locked state. For example, the space S may be present between the outermost portion 4c and the bottom portion 3a of the edge section 4. The space S may be at least 0.1 mm, for example at least 0.2 mm.

[0077] However, in some embodiments, for example as shown in Fig. 3a, the edge section 4 may cooperate, e.g. engage, with the groove 3 in a locked state. For example, the outermost portion 4c may cooperate with the bottom portion 3a, preferably along a planar portion.

[0078] The outer part 6d of the separate tongue 6 may be curved or inclined, for example as shown in Fig. 2d. The locking part 7a may cooperate, for example engage, with the outer part 6d in the locked state. The outer part 6d may extend, for example at least 0.1 mm, preferably at least 1 mm, or at least 1.5 mm, or at least 2 mm, for example 0.1-10 mm or 0.1-4 mm, from the insertion groove 5, for example along the second direction Y, when placed inside the insertion groove 5 in the unlocked and / or locked state.

[0079] Figures 4c, 4d, 5a-5e show an embodiment of a construct 30 for forming a mechanical locking device in a panel 1, preferably a first panel 1. The construct 30 may comprise a first groove tool 31 and preferably a second groove tool 32 and may form a locking device according to the first aspect of the disclosure in a simple manner. The first groove tool 31 may comprise a cutting tool, preferably with cutting teeth, configured to rotate in a first rotation direction R1. Preferably, the first groove tool 31 is provided perpendicular to the first main plane M1, i.e. along a normal N1, and is selectively displaceable. The second groove tool 32 may comprise a cutting tool, preferably with cutting teeth, configured to rotate in a second rotation direction R2. Preferably, the second groove tool 32 is provided at an angle β of 18°-45°, for example 20°-30°, to the first main plane M1 and is selectively displaceable. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the tools 31, 32 shown in Figures 4c, 4d are shown in a rotational motion so that the cutting teeth may not be visible.

[0080] The panel 1 may be of any of the types detailed elsewhere herein. The panel 1 may comprise a core layer 11 or may have a layer configuration comprising at least two core layers 11a, 11b, for example three core layers 11a, 11b, 11c. Optionally, the panel may comprise a decorative structure 8. Alternatively or additionally, the thickness T1 of the panel may vary by more than ±0.2 mm relative to the nominal thickness value, for example by at least ±0.3 mm, at least ±0.6 mm, possibly by at least ±0.8 mm. The nominal thickness value may be determined by standards as described in EN 324-1:1993 or SS-EN 14322:2017. Suitably, the thickness variation is within ±0.1, for example within ±0.08, of the thickness T1. For example, the thickness variation may be within the range of ±0.2 to ±3 mm, for example ±0.3 to ±2 mm.

[0081] As shown in Figures 4c, 5a, the second face 1b of the panel can be positioned on the support member 33. Then, a groove 3 can be formed in the interior 1g of the first face 1a of the panel 1 by a first groove tool 31. The formation of the groove 3 can comprise forming a groove opening 3d wider than the groove interior 3e such that a second plane P2 extending along the linear extension line LE of the inner wall 5b of the insertion groove 5 and / or along the inner wall 6b is provided in or outside the first face 1a. Then, an insertion groove 5 can be formed in the groove wall 3b of the groove by a second groove tool 32 as shown in Figures 4d, 5b.

[0082] Figures 4e, 5c-5e show an embodiment of a preferably first panel 1 with a locking device formed by the method described above. The panel 1 shown in Figure 5c corresponds to the panel formed in Figures 5a, 5b. The panel in Figure 5d (or Figure 5e) is thicker (thinner) than the panel in Figure 5c. For example, the first panel 1 (or the second panel 2) is 0.5-50 mm thicker, for example 5-10 mm thicker than the second panel 2 (first panel 1).

[0083] The first groove tool 31 and the second groove tool 32 may be preferably configured to form the groove 3 and / or the insertion groove 5 at a fixed distance L1, L2 from the support member 33 along the normal N1 and / or the first direction X. For example, the tools 31 and / or 32 may be arranged to rotate but stationary relative to the support member during operation. Preferably, the panel 1 and the tools 31 and / or 32 are displaced relative to each other along the feed direction FD during operation of the tools. This allows the groove 3 to extend completely between the sides 1e, 1f. See Figs. 1a, 1b, 4c, 4d. The support member 33 may serve as a reference surface against which the tools 31 and / or 32 are calibrated and operated. This allows the depth D of the groove 3 and / or the distance V from the first face 1a to the opening 5c, e.g. to the second plane P2, to be different between panels 1 of different thicknesses T1. For example, as shown in FIG. 5d (or FIG. 5e), if the thickness T1 is large (or small) relative to a reference panel, eg, panel 1 of FIG. 5c, the depth D and / or the distance V can be large (or small).

[0084] However, even if the thickness T1 varies as described above, the groove 3 and insertion groove 5 formed according to the above-described method can be included in a mechanical locking device configured according to the first aspect disclosed herein. Indeed, the inventors have found that by disposing the locking portion 7a at an angle α of less than 45° with respect to the second major plane M2 and / or the first direction X, as detailed elsewhere herein, a sufficiently strong locking strength of the locking device can be obtained even when the panel thickness varies relatively greatly.

[0085] In some embodiments, the groove 3 may be provided in the first face 1a so as not to extend all the way to the side 1e and / or the side 1f, as shown, for example, in FIG. 4e. Such a non-visible groove may be envisaged in any of the embodiments of the present specification, for example, in FIGS. 1a-1d, 2a-2d, 3a-3d, 4a-4d, 5a-5f, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b. In fact, as described above, the tool 31 and / or the tool 32 may be displaceably arranged with respect to the support member 33. The groove 3 may then be formed by displacing the first tool 31 in contact with the inner portion 1g, preferably along the normal N1. And / or the insertion groove 5 may be formed by displacing the second tool 32 in contact with the groove wall 3b, preferably at an angle β of 18°-45°, for example 20°-30°, with respect to the first main plane M1. For example, tool 31 and / or tool 32 may be jumped and placed in a CNC machining device.

[0086] It is emphasized that the embodiment shown in Figures 6a, 6b is exemplary and that any of the other elements 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 and their subspecifications 1a, 1b, ..., 1j, etc. described herein may be utilized. For example, any of the mechanical locking device embodiments of Figures 1a-1d, 2a-2d, 3a-3d, 4c-4e, 5a-5f, 7a, or 7b may be envisioned for panels 1, 2 of Figures 6a or 6b as well. Additionally, panels 1, 2 of Figures 6a, 6b are adapted to be assembled into an assembly 20, such as a box or furniture assembly, similar to the embodiment shown in Figures 4a, 4b.

[0087] The present disclosure has been described primarily with reference to certain embodiments. However, as will be readily understood by those skilled in the art, other embodiments than those disclosed above are equally possible within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the panel set or assembly 20 may comprise a plurality of panels similar to the first panel 1 and the second panel 2, which may be panels 1 or 2 and / or 2 assembled and locked together in a similar manner as the first panel and the second panel. Furthermore, it is understood that the first panel 1 disclosed herein may be provided with another similar mechanical locking device located at another interior 1g of the first face 1a, to which the third panel and optionally the fourth panel, etc. may be locked. See Figures 4a, 4b. It is understood that the embodiments of Figures 1a-c, 2a-d, for example, are schematic and that the panel length PL, for example, may be much larger than that shown in Figures 4a, 4b. Finally, although mainly described with reference to the interior 1g, it is emphasized that the mechanical locking devices described herein, such as those illustrated in any of Figures 1a-1d, 2a-2d, 3a-3d, 4a-4e, 5a-5f, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, may be provided in the corner sections 1j of the first face 1a, see Figures 4a, 4b.

Claims

1. A set of panels comprising a first panel (1) and a second panel (2) configured to assume a locked state, in which a first major plane (M1) of the first panel is disposed at an angle (φ) of 30° to 150°, for example 45° to 135°, relative to a second major plane (M2) of the second panel, The set includes: A groove (3) provided in the first panel; an edge section (4) of the second panel; an insertion groove (5) provided in the groove (3) of the first panel; A separate tongue (6) arranged in the insertion groove; a recess (7) in the edge section (4) of the second panel; Equipped with said separate tongues (6) are configured to cooperate with locking portions (7a) of said recesses (7) to lock said first panel (1) and said second panel (2) together in a first direction (X) perpendicular to said first main plane (M1); the edge section (4) of the second panel is configured to cooperate with the groove (3) of the first panel to lock the first panel (1) and the second panel (2) together in a second direction (Y) parallel to the first major plane (M1) and extending towards a side edge surface (1c) of the first panel; The locking portion (7a) is disposed at a locking angle (α) of less than 40° with respect to the first direction (X), set.

2. The groove (3) is provided on the inside (1g) of the first surface (1a) of the first panel (1); The set according to claim 1.

3. The insertion groove (5) is provided at an angle (β) of 18° to 45°, for example 20° to 30°, relative to the first main plane (M1); A set according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The locking portion (7a) is flat. A set according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The engagement angle (α) is 30° to 40°. A set according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The relative angle (γ) between the locking portion (7a) and the insertion groove (5) is 15° to 50°, for example 20° to 45° or 20° to 30°, in the locked state. A set according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. said edge section (4) being spaced apart from the bottom (3a) of said groove (3) by a space (S) in the locked state; A set according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. the outer side (6d) of said separate tongue (6) is curved or provided with a slope; A set according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. said first main plane (M1) is arranged essentially perpendicular to said second main plane (M2); A set according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. the thickness (T1) of the first panel defined by the first surface (1a) and the second surface (1b) of the first panel varies from a nominal thickness value by more than ±0.2 mm; A set according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. The first panel (1) and / or the second panel (2) comprises a core layer (11) and a decorative structure (8), A set according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. the first panel (1) and / or the second panel (2) have a layer configuration comprising at least two core layers (11a, 11b; 12a, 12b), e.g. three core layers (11a, 11b, 11c; 12a, 12b, 12c); A set according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. the first panel (1) and / or the second panel (2) comprise a sandwich core, e.g. a honeycomb core; A set according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. An assembly (20) comprising a set of panels according to any one of the preceding claims.

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