Set of panels with locking device

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a panel set including a locking device for locking a first edge (1a) of a first panel (1) with a second edge (2b) of a second panel (2). The locking device includes a horizontal locking device and a vertical locking device. The vertical locking device includes a separate tongue (3) disposed in an insertion groove (4) of the first edge and a tongue groove (5) provided in the second edge. When the first edge and the second edge are vertically locked together, an abutment member (13) provided at a longitudinal end of the separate tongue cooperates with a stopper surface (12) of the second edge, and the locking portion of the separate tongue cooperates with the tongue groove.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a set of panels including a locking device. More specifically, the locking device includes a separate tongue configured to cooperate with a tongue groove to vertically lock the edges of the panels together. The panels may be building panels, floor panels, ceiling panels, furniture components, or wall panels. [Background technology]

[0002] WO2022 / 197234A1 discloses panels with a novel mechanical locking system that allows the panels to be disassembled more easily, for example, the panels can be disassembled without the use of tools and / or by applying force to the edges of the panels with tools.

[0003] However, such mechanical locking systems leave room for improvement, especially with respect to certain types of flooring, for example flooring having greater thicknesses. Summary of the Invention

[0004] It is therefore an object of at least embodiments of the present disclosure to provide a set of panels with a locking device that can be disassembled in a good manner, for example without the use of tools that interact with the locking device, for example disassembly involves only manual manipulation.

[0005] Another object of at least embodiments of the present disclosure is to make disassembly and reassembly of sets of panels easier and / or faster.

[0006] These and other objects and advantages that will become apparent from the following description are achieved by the various aspects, embodiments, and examples described below.

[0007] According to the present disclosure, there is provided a set of panels, such as building panels, comprising a first panel, a second panel, and a locking device for locking a first edge of the first panel to a second edge of the second panel. The panels have a front surface and a back surface, and a normal to a major plane extending along the front surface and / or the back surface preferably defines a vertical direction extending away from the front surfaces of the first and second panels. The locking device comprises a horizontal locking device and a vertical locking device. The vertical locking device comprises a separate tongue disposed in an insertion groove of the first edge, the separate tongue having a longitudinal extension extending along the first edge, and a tongue groove provided on the second edge and extending along the second edge. When the first edge portion and the second edge portion are vertically engaged, the abutment member provided at the longitudinal end of the separate tongue portion cooperates with the stopper surface of the second edge portion, and the engagement portion of the separate tongue portion cooperates with the tongue groove.

[0008] According to the present disclosure, in the vertical locking state, the lateral extent of the separate tongues from the insertion grooves may be greater at the locking portions than at the longitudinal ends, so that the ends can be unlocked essentially vertically locally at the longitudinal ends, while the separate tongues, which are preferably flexible, can be gradually inserted into the tongue grooves along the edges to provide their vertical locking.

[0009] Further, according to the present disclosure, the first and second panels may be disassembled by vertically displacing the first and second edges away from each other, preferably by scissoring or bending, starting near the location of the abutment member. For example, the edges may be vertically unlocked by relatively vertically displacing the first and second edges away from each other, preferably essentially manually, using a lifting element selectively below the second panel. During the bending unlocking, the separate tongue may be gradually displaced into the insertion groove along the first edge. This may make disassembling or reassembling the panels easier and / or less time-consuming. Notably, a separate tool interacting with the locking device during disassembly is not required, but is not excluded. As outlined elsewhere herein, in some embodiments, the edges may be unlocked by repeatedly vertically displacing them away from and toward each other. A separate tool may be appropriate for disassembling certain weak panels, such as porous panels, that may be damaged during manual disassembly.

[0010] The stop surface preferably prevents the tongue of the separate body from being displaced outward from the insertion groove at least in the horizontal direction. Furthermore, the stop surface can be, for example, a guide surface for guiding the tongue of the separate body during locking.

[0011] The stop surface may include a region of the second edge that cooperates with the separate tongue in the locked state, and optionally also includes an area that cooperates with the separate tongue during locking and unlocking.

[0012] In this disclosure generally, cooperating surfaces may cooperate through direct engagement or indirectly. Examples of such cooperating surfaces include stopper surfaces and abutment surfaces. In any of the embodiments described herein, there may be a sealant, such as wax or adhesive, disposed between the cooperating surfaces. This provides an example of indirect engagement.

[0013] The abutment member may be provided on the outside, preferably the lower part, of the separate tongue.

[0014] The abutment member may protrude downwardly.

[0015] In some embodiments, both opposing longitudinal ends of the separate tongue may include an abutment member. Therefore, the abutment member may be one of at least two abutment members. And, both opposing longitudinal ends of the separate tongue may include one of at least two abutment members. This allows the separate tongue to assume a curved, preferably essentially symmetrical, shape in the vertically locked state. Furthermore, unlocking of the edges may be initiated from either side. Additionally, when several types of panels are included in a set, it may be appropriate to use them to lock together in a pattern, for example, a herringbone pattern including so-called A and B panels. Here, the separate tongue may include an abutment member facing a suitable portion or side of the edge, for example, a specific corner, regardless of the type of panel into which it is inserted.

[0016] The first edge of the first panel and the second edge of the second panel may be short edges, although in some embodiments the edges may be long edges. In this disclosure as a whole, the short edges may be shorter than the long edges.

[0017] The stop surface may be located below the tongue groove.

[0018] The stop surface may be located outside the opening of the tongue groove.

[0019] The locking portion of the separate tongue can be spaced away from the stopper surface in the vertical locking state.

[0020] The stop surface may be planar and may extend essentially vertically, for example vertically. By extending essentially vertically, the stop surface may preferably form an angle of 0°-10°, for example 0°-5° or 0°-2°, with the normal N. Thus, cooperation between the abutment member and the stop surface may provide little or no vertical edge-to-edge locking. Therefore, simpler assembly and / or disassembly of the panel may be provided.

[0021] In the vertical locking state, the abutment member is pretensioned against the stop surface. For example, the separate tongue may include a flexible member. By pretensioning the separate tongue, it may be biased outward, for example, by a spring force. The abutment member may cause the separate tongue to assume a curved or bent shape in the longitudinal direction, so that its longitudinal end cooperates with the stop surface of the second edge and its locking portion cooperates with the tongue groove.

[0022] Preferably, the separate tongue is flexible.

[0023] The separate tongue may include a flexible member configured to face an interior of the insertion channel when disposed therein, and the flexible member may be configured to displace the separate tongue during locking or unlocking.

[0024] During locking, the second edge, preferably a lower cooperating surface, may cooperate with the locking portion, preferably directly, to displace the separate tongue into the insertion groove.

[0025] During locking, the locking portion may be configured to be gradually inserted into the insertion groove along the first edge in a first stage, and then gradually inserted into the tongue groove along the second edge in a subsequent second stage.

[0026] The abutment member and the locking portion of the separate tongue portion are operably coupled so that, during locking, the second edge presses the locking portion toward the inside of the insertion groove, allowing the abutment member to move together with the locking portion in a direction toward the inside of the insertion groove.

[0027] The abutment member may comprise a straight section extending parallel to the longitudinal extent of the separate tongue, preferably located longitudinally inside the longitudinally curved section at the longitudinal end. The straight section provides a larger contact surface for the second edge, which may reduce the risk of damage to fragile panels, such as porous panels, e.g., panels made of particle board or OSB board, during locking and / or unlocking.

[0028] The flexible members may each extend from a respective base portion of the separate tongues. Each flexible member may extend from and bendable about its respective base portion. In some embodiments, the flexible members extending from the base portions disposed at the longitudinal ends may extend from and bendable about their inner longitudinal surfaces. This may reduce the force required to displace the separate tongues at the longitudinal ends, making unlocking easier.

[0029] The abutment member may be positioned at least partially, for example entirely, longitudinally outward from the flexible member, which may make it easier to unlock the edge, as the outward pressure from the flexible member may be less at the location of the abutment member.

[0030] The separate tongue, preferably the locking portion of the separate tongue, can be bent longitudinally in the vertical locking state.

[0031] The horizontal locking device may include a locking element disposed in a strip extending horizontally outward from a bottom of the first edge and a locking groove in the second edge, the locking element and the locking groove being configured to cooperate to provide a horizontal lock between the first edge and the second edge.

[0032] The first and second edges can be configured to be vertically unlocked by forcing the first and second edges to move vertically apart and / or by repeatedly forcing the first and second edges to move vertically apart and toward each other. Repeated relative vertical displacements can include displacing the edges up and down. Repeated displacements, preferably by bending, can provide a more controlled unlocking of the edges in some embodiments. Indeed, after a first relative vertical displacement that moves the edges apart, a portion of the separate tongue can be hooked, partially unlocking the edges. A second relative vertical displacement that moves the edges closer together can then at least partially release the separate tongue from the hooked state. The edges can then be further unlocked by a third relative vertical displacement that moves the edges apart. As a further advantage, the relative vertical displacement may reduce the risk of damaging the edges, e.g., their decorative layer, and / or the locking device. Indeed, for particularly fragile panels, excessive force from relative vertical displacement in only one direction may damage the edges or locking device.

[0033] In some embodiments, the abutment member may be provided on the outside, preferably on the upper part, of the separate tongue. Such embodiments are generally similar to the embodiments described elsewhere in this specification in which the abutment member is provided on the outside, lower part, and reference is made thereto. Even in this case, either or both of the embodiments described below can be interchanged with the corresponding embodiment described above. That is, the abutment member and / or the stop surface may be inclined. The stop surface may be located at the top or vertically above the tongue groove.

[0034] The first and second panels may be elastic panels. The elastic panels may include a core made of a polymeric material, such as a thermoplastic material. The thermoplastic material may be foamable. The thermoplastic material may include polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyester, polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS), polyurethane (PU), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyacrylate, methacrylate, polycarbonate, polyvinyl butyral, polybutylene terephthalate, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the core may include at least two layers.

[0035] The first and second panels may each include a decorative layer, such as a decorative foil made of a thermoplastic material. The thermoplastic material of the decorative layer may be or include PVC, polyester, PP, PE, PS, PU, ​​PET, polyacrylate, methacrylate, polycarbonate, polyvinyl butyral, polybutylene terephthalate, or a combination thereof. The decorative foil is preferably printed, for example, by direct printing, gravure printing, or digital printing.

[0036] The first and second panels may include a wear layer, such as a film or foil. The wear layer may be made of a thermoplastic material, such as PVC, polyester, PP, PE, PS, PU, ​​PET, polyacrylate, methacrylate, polycarbonate, polyvinyl butyral, polybutylene terephthalate, or a combination thereof.

[0037] The first and second panels may be made of a wood core such as high density fiberboard (HDF), medium density fiberboard (MDF), particle board, oriented strand board (OSB), or plywood.

[0038] Terms used throughout this specification, including the claims, should be construed according to their ordinary meaning in the art unless expressly defined otherwise. All references to "elements, components, devices, parts, means, steps, etc." should be construed as openly referring to at least one instance of that element, component, device, part, means, step, etc., unless expressly defined otherwise. References to singular or plural elements, such as "at least one element," may be simply written as "element."

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

[0040] [Figure 1a] 1 shows an embodiment of a panel in a top view. [Figure 1b] 1 shows an embodiment of a panel in a top view. [Figure 1c] 1 illustrates an embodiment of an assembled panel in a top view. [Figure 1d] 1 illustrates an embodiment of an assembled panel in a top view. [Figure 1e] 1A-1D show perspective views of an embodiment of a panel during assembly and disassembly. [Figure 2a] For example, the panel embodiment of Figures 1c and 1d is shown in side view C1-C1. [Figure 2b] For example, the panel embodiment of Figures 1c and 1d is shown with corresponding enlarged side views. [Figure 2c] For example, the panel embodiment of Figures 1c and 1d is shown in cross-sectional side view C2-C2. [Figure 2d] For example, the panel embodiment of Figures 1c and 1d is shown in large cross-sectional side view. [Figure 2e] For example, the panel embodiment of Figures 1c and 1d is shown in cross-sectional side view C3-C3. [Figure 2f] For example, an embodiment of the panel of Figures 1c and 1d is shown in enlarged cross-sectional side view. [Figure 3a]10A and 10B show perspective views of an embodiment of a separate tongue; [Figure 3b] 10A and 10B show corresponding enlarged perspective views of a separate tongue embodiment; [Figure 3c] An embodiment of a separate tongue is shown in cross-sectional side view along section A-A in Figure 3a. [Figure 3d] FIG. 3a shows a cross-sectional side view of a separate tongue embodiment taken along section B-B of FIG. [Figure 4a] 10A-10C show top views of an embodiment of a separate tongue with the edge unlocked and locked. [Figure 4b] 10A-10C show corresponding enlarged top views of an embodiment of a separate tongue in an unlocked and locked position of the edge. [Figure 4c] 10A and 10B show cutaway perspective views of an embodiment of a first panel and a separate tongue in an edge locked configuration. [Figure 4d] 10A and 10B show perspective views of an embodiment of a separate tongue; [Figure 4e] 10A and 10B show corresponding enlarged perspective views of a separate tongue embodiment; [Figure 5a] 10A and 10B show perspective views of an embodiment of a separate tongue; [Figure 5b] 10 shows a side view of an embodiment of a separate tongue. [Figure 5c] 10A and 10B show corresponding enlarged perspective views of a separate tongue embodiment; [Figure 5d] 1 illustrates an embodiment of a set of panels in side view. [Figure 5e] 10A-10C show an embodiment of a set of panels with corresponding enlarged side views. [Figure 6a] 10 shows an embodiment of a separate tongue and its cooperation with the second edge in a perspective view. [Figure 6b] 10 shows a side view of an embodiment of a separate tongue and its cooperation with the second edge. [Figure 6c] 10A and 10B show an embodiment of a separate tongue and its cooperation with the second edge in a corresponding enlarged perspective view. [Figure 6d] 10A and 10B show perspective views of an embodiment of a separate tongue; [Figure 6e] 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of two such separate tongues positioned in an insertion groove. [Figure 7a] 10A and 10B show side views of an embodiment of a first edge and a second edge during locking. [Figure 7b] 10A-10C show corresponding enlarged side views of an embodiment of a first edge and a second edge during locking. [Figure 7c] 10A and 10B show side views of an embodiment of a first edge and a second edge during locking. [Figure 7d] 10A-10C show corresponding enlarged side views of an embodiment of a first edge and a second edge during locking. [Figure 7e] 10A and 10B show side views of an embodiment of a first edge and a second edge during locking. [Figure 7f] 10A-10C show corresponding enlarged side views of an embodiment of a first edge and a second edge during locking. [Figure 8a] 1A and 1B show side views of an embodiment of a first edge and a second edge during locking or unlocking. [Figure 8b] 10A-10C show corresponding enlarged side views of an embodiment of a first edge and a second edge during locking or unlocking. [Figure 8c] 1A and 1B show side views of an embodiment of a first edge and a second edge during locking or unlocking. [Figure 8d] 10A-10C show corresponding enlarged side views of an embodiment of a first edge and a second edge during locking or unlocking. [Figure 8e] 1A and 1B show side views of an embodiment of a first edge and a second edge during locking or unlocking. [Figure 8f] 10A-10C show corresponding enlarged side views of an embodiment of a first edge and a second edge during locking or unlocking. [Figure 9a] 1A and 1B show side views of an embodiment of a first edge and a second edge during locking or unlocking. [Figure 9b] 1A and 1B show side views of an embodiment of a first edge and a second edge during locking or unlocking. [Figure 9c] 1A and 1B show side views of an embodiment of a first edge and a second edge during locking or unlocking. [Figure 9d] 10A-10C show corresponding enlarged side views of an embodiment of a first edge and a second edge during locking or unlocking. [Figure 9e]1A and 1B show side views of an embodiment of a first edge and a second edge during locking or unlocking. [Figure 9f] 10A-10C show corresponding enlarged side views of an embodiment of a first edge and a second edge during locking or unlocking. [Figure 10a] For example, embodiments of locked first and second edges of the panels of Figures 1c and 1d are shown in cross-sectional side views C3-C3 and / or C4-C4. [Figure 10b] An embodiment of the locked first and second edges of the panels of, for example, Figures 1c and 1d is shown in cross-sectional side view C2-C2. [Figure 10c] 1A and 1B show side views of an embodiment of a first edge and a second edge during locking or unlocking. [Figure 10d] 1A and 1B show side views of an embodiment of a first edge and a second edge during locking or unlocking. [Figure 10e] 1A and 1B show side views of an embodiment of a first edge and a second edge during locking or unlocking. [Figure 11a] 10e shows an enlarged side view of the edge of FIG. [Figure 11b] FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of the internal separate tongue. [Figure 11c] 10A and 10B show perspective views of an embodiment of a separate tongue; [Figure 11d] 1 shows an embodiment of an assembled wall panel. [Figure 12a] 1 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a set of panels during disassembly. [Figure 12b] 1 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a set of panels during disassembly. [Figure 12c] 1 shows an embodiment of a lifting element in a perspective view. [Figure 12d] 1e shows an embodiment of the interlocked third and fourth edges in a side view as in or taken from FIG. 1e. [Figure 13a] An embodiment of the first and second edges of the panel of Figures 1c and 1d, for example, is shown in cross-sectional side view C2-C2 during unlocking using a separate tool. [Figure 13b]An embodiment of the first and second edges of the panel of, for example, Figures 1c and 1d is shown in cross-sectional side views C3-C3 and / or C4-C4 during unlocking using a separate tool. [Figure 13c] 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of such a separate tool. [Figure 13d] 1 shows a perspective view of the use of such a separate tool. [Figure 14a] 10A and 10B show top views of different embodiments of the separate tongue in an unlocked state. [Figure 14b] 10A and 10B show top views of different embodiments of the separate tongue in an unlocked state. [Figure 14c] 1 shows an embodiment of a separate tongue in perspective view around its longitudinal end. [Figure 14d] 1 shows an embodiment of a separate tongue in an enlarged perspective view around its longitudinal end. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0041] Various embodiments of the present disclosure are described below with reference to, for example, the embodiments of Figures 1a-1e, 2a-2f, 3a-3d, 4a-4e, 5a-5e, 6a-6e, 7a-7f, 8a-8f, 9a-9f, 10a-10e, 11a-11d, 12a-12d, 13a-13d, and 14a-14d.

[0042] The present disclosure relates to a set of panels, e.g., building panels, including a first panel 1 and a second panel 2, each having a first edge 1a and a second edge 2b. See, for example, FIGS. 1a-1e and 2a-2f. Preferably, the panels in this disclosure are essentially identical. For example, the panels may be floor panels, but they may also be wall panels, as shown in FIG. 11d. Ceiling panels or furniture components are also conceivable. The panels 1 and 2 preferably have front surfaces 1e and 2e and back surfaces 1f and 2f, respectively, extending along a first horizontal direction X and a second horizontal direction Y. For example, the first edge 1a and the second edge 2b may extend along the first horizontal direction X. A normal N to the main planes M1 and M2 extending along the front surfaces 1e and 2e and / or back surfaces 1f and 2f defines a vertical direction Z extending away from the front surfaces of the first and second panels 1 and 2.

[0043] The set of panels further includes a locking device for locking the first edge 1 a and the second edge 2 b together. The locking device in the present disclosure may be a mechanical locking device, whereby the first panel and the second panel may be assembled together. The locking device includes a horizontal locking device and a vertical locking device configured to lock the first edge 1 a and the second edge 2 b together in the horizontal and vertical directions, respectively.

[0044] In the present disclosure, panels 1 and 2 may be rectangular, but may also be square in some embodiments. Preferably, first edge 1a and second edge 2b, on which the locking device is provided, are short edges. It is clear that panels 1 and 2 may have opposing short edges, as shown, for example, in FIG. 1a. Panels 1 and 2 may further have opposing third edges 1c and 2c and fourth edges 1d and 2d, which are preferably long edges. For example, the third and fourth edges may extend along the second horizontal direction Y. However, embodiments in which opposing edges 1a, 1b, 2a, and 2b are long edges and opposing edges 1c, 1d, 2c, and 2d are short edges are also included in the present disclosure, mutatis mutandis.

[0045] A set may include additional panels, such as multiple panels. For example, as shown by way of example in Figures 1e, 12a, and 12d, a set may include a third panel 1'. Panels 1 and 2 may be assembled to the third panel 1', for example, along a third edge 1c', a fourth edge 1d', and / or a first edge 1a'.

[0046] Panels 1, 2, such as floor panels, building panels, ceiling panels, furniture components, or wall panels, can be configured to be placed on or connected to a base structure, e.g., a foundation floor 20. In some embodiments, panels 1, 2 are floor panels that can be placed along the base floor 20, preferably in a floating manner. The horizontal directions X, Y can extend parallel to the base structure, e.g., the foundation floor, and the vertical direction Z can extend perpendicular thereto. See FIG. 1e. Thus, for example, as shown in FIG. 11d, in the case of a wall panel, the horizontal directions X, Y can extend along the visible wall surface 21, which, in the context of the wall panel assembly, is typically perpendicular to the foundation floor 20. The vertical direction Z can extend perpendicular to the foundation floor.

[0047] For example, as shown in Figures 1a-1e, 2a-2f, 4c, 5d-5e, 6e, 7a-7f, 8a-8f, 9a-9f, 10-10e, and 11a, the vertical locking device includes a separate tongue 3 disposed in an insertion groove 4 of a first edge 1a and a tongue groove 5 provided in a second edge 2b. The insertion groove, the separate tongue, and the tongue groove may each have an elongated shape and may have a lateral extension range and, preferably, a larger longitudinal extension range. The longitudinal extension ranges of the insertion groove 4 and the separate tongue 3 may extend along the first edge 1a. The longitudinal extension range of the tongue groove 5 may extend along the second edge 2b. For example, the edges 1a and 2b may extend along a first horizontal direction X. The cross section of the locking device may be essentially constant along the edges 1a, 2b, possibly except at the corners 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d of the panels 1, 2.

[0048] The separate tongue 3 may include longitudinal ends 3a and a locking portion 6. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1c, 3a, 4a, 4d, 5a, 6a, 11b-11c, and 14a-14d, the locking portion 6 is preferably located within the longitudinal portion of the separate tongue between the pair of longitudinal ends 3a. For example, the locking portion 6 may be located in the longitudinal center of the separate tongue. However, as shown in FIGS. 1d and 6d, in some embodiments, the locking portion 6 may extend to the opposing longitudinal end 3a, preferably without including an abutment member 13. Thus, the separate tongue 3 includes an abutment member 13 on one or both of the longitudinal ends 3a. Furthermore, the second edge 2b includes a stopper surface 12.

[0049] In the vertical locking state, the abutment member 13 cooperates, e.g., engages, with the stop surface 12, and the locking portion 6 cooperates, e.g., engages, with the tongue groove 5. For example, the tip 3i of the separate tongue 3 can cooperate with the tongue groove 5 at a locking surface 5g. See FIG. 2d. The locking surface 5g can form an angle ε with the main plane M2 (translated downward in FIGS. 2c-2d for clarity). Preferably, 10°≦ε≦50°, more preferably 25°≦ε≦40°. Furthermore, in the vertical locking state, the preferably outermost lower surface 3j of the tip 3i can form an angle σ with the main plane M1 and / or M2. Preferably, 0°≦σ≦25°, more preferably 0°≦σ≦10°, e.g., 3°≦σ≦7°.

[0050] In the vertically locked state, the distance D2 from, for example, the innermost interior 4a of the insertion groove 4 to the stopper surface 12 may be smaller than the distance D1 from, for example, the innermost interior 4a to the locking surface 5g, with which the separate tongue 3, for example the outermost section of the tip 3i, cooperates. The distances D1 and D2 may be measured along the second horizontal direction Y. In a non-limiting example, the difference between D1 and D2 may be 0.1-3.0 mm, preferably 0.3-0.9 mm.

[0051] The locking portion 6 of the separate tongue 3 may be flexible. Indeed, as can be seen most clearly from the curves Q and Q' in FIGS. 1c, 1d, 4a, and 4c, in the vertically locked state, the separate tongue 3 may bend, e.g., its outermost surface 3m may become convex. For example, the outermost surface 3m may be identified in a top view of the first panel. By bending longitudinally, the lateral length TL of the locking portion 6 from the insertion groove 4 along the lateral direction T of the separate tongue may be greater than the lateral distance TE of the end 3a from the insertion groove 4. See, for example, FIG. 4c. Alternatively, or preferably additionally, by bending longitudinally, the separate tongue 3 may bend around a normal N to the main plane M1 and / or around an axis AP extending perpendicular to the groove plane GP, which is located along the inner wall 4c of the insertion groove 4. See FIGS. 1c-1e, 2f, 4c, and 5d. The longitudinal bending and / or distances D1, D2 can be measured by a CT scanner, preferably in a mid-plane parallel to the main planes M1 and / or M2.

[0052] For example, as shown in Figures 2a-2f, 3a-3d, 4c-4e, 5a-5e, 6a-6e, 7a-7f, 8a-8f, 9a-9f, and 14a-14d, the abutment member 13 may be provided on the lower part of the separate tongue 3, preferably on the lateral outer side. The abutment member 13 may, for example, protrude downward from the tongue body 3c. In a first example, it may be formed essentially as a hook, i.e., a tooth 13b. In a second example, as shown in Figures 6a-6c, it may have at least two, for example, three, teeth 13b.

[0053] The tongue body 3c may preferably comprise a continuous longitudinal outer section 3q extending along substantially the entire longitudinal extent of the separate tongue 3. See, for example, Figures 3a, 4a, 4d, 5a, 6a, 6d, 11b-11c, and 14a-14d.

[0054] For example, as shown in Figures 10a-10e and 11a-11c, the abutment member 13 may in some embodiments be provided on the separate tongue 3, preferably on the upper, laterally outer side.

[0055] Furthermore, in some embodiments, in the locked state, the abutment member 13 may be provided at or above a groove plane GP that is disposed along the inner wall 4c. See, for example, FIG. 2f. The inner wall 4c may be a vertically lower wall. In some embodiments, the abutment member 13 may be provided at or below a groove plane GQ that is disposed along the opposite inner wall 4d of the insertion groove 4. See, for example, FIG. 11a. The inner wall 4d may be a vertically upper wall. In any of these embodiments, the abutment member 13 may be displaced into the insertion groove 4 during locking.

[0056] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 2a-2f, 3a-3d, 4d-4e, 5a-5e, 6a-6e, 7a-7f, 8a-8f, 9c-9f, 10a-10e, 11a-11b, and 14c-14d, preferably the laterally outer portion of the separate tongue 3 may include a longitudinally extending cavity 3d. The cavity 3d may be located laterally behind the abutment member 13, for example, at the longitudinal end 3a, and may face downward when the separate tongue 3 is positioned in the insertion groove 4. The cavity may reduce the thickness of the separate tongue, for example, the outer thickness TS, and thus the thickness TG of the tongue groove 5. This may also potentially reduce the weight and / or cost of the separate tongue. The cavity 3d may extend along essentially the entire longitudinal length LT of the separate tongue 3, for example, to the longitudinal end 3a or its distal longitudinal end. However, in some embodiments, for example, as shown in Figures 5a-5c, 11c, and 14c-14d, the thickness TS of the tongue body 3c may be substantially constant at the longitudinal end 3a, for example, due to the absence of the cavity 3d. Such a separate tongue is simpler to manufacture. Optionally, the locking portion 6 may include the cavity 3d. See Figures 5a-5c and 14c-14d.

[0057] For example, in some embodiments of Figures 10a-10e and Figures 11a-11c, the outer side of the separate tongue 3 may be provided with a longitudinally extending upper cavity 3n, preferably arranged longitudinally inward of the abutment member 13.

[0058] The abutment member 13 may be flexible along the lateral extension T of the separate tongue 3. For example, flexibility may be achieved by a cavity 3d, which allows the edges 1a, 2b to be unlocked more simply.

[0059] In some embodiments, both opposing longitudinal ends 3a of the separate tongue 3 are provided with an abutment member 13. See, for example, Figures 1a-1c, 2a-2f, 3a-3d, 4a-4e, 5a-5c, 6a-6c, 7a-7f, 8a-8f, 9a-9f, 10a-10e, 11a-11c, and 14a-14c. Thus, the edges 1a, 2b can be unlocked from either side. However, in some embodiments, only a single longitudinal end 3a of the separate tongue 3 is provided with an abutment member 13. See, for example, Figures 1b, 1d, 6d-6e, 7a-7f, 8a-8f, 9a-9f, 10a-10e, and 11a. Thus, edges 1a, 2b may be unlocked preferably from one side, it being understood that any of these alternatives are envisaged in the present disclosure.

[0060] As an example, the longitudinal length LA of the abutment member 13, e.g., along the longitudinal extension range L of the separate tongue 3, can be 1-20 mm, preferably 5-10 mm, or 1-6 mm, more preferably 3-6 mm. See Figures 3a-3b, 4e, and 5c. Note that as the longitudinal length LA increases, the vertical locking strength may decrease, but unlocking may become simpler. In the present disclosure as a whole, the vertical locking strength must be high enough to obtain a locking device that functions along the edges, but at the same time, the vertical locking strength must be configured at least locally so that the edges can be unlocked.

[0061] For example, as shown in Figures 2a-2b, 2e-2f, 5d-5e, 6b, 7a-7f, 8a-8f, and 9a-9f, the stopper surface 12 can be positioned vertically below the tongue groove 5. Additionally or alternatively, the stopper surface 12 can be positioned outside the opening 5a of the tongue groove 5. The opening 5a can extend horizontally to a vertical plane VS along the stopper surface 12, e.g., its innermost portion, and optionally, in the locked state, to a vertical plane VP horizontally along the upper joint portions 1g, 2g of the edges 1a, 2b. See, e.g., Figures 2c, 5d, 7d-7e, 9b, and 9d. For the second panel 2, the vertical plane VS can be positioned horizontally inside the vertical plane VP. See, e.g., Figure 9b. Optionally, the tongue groove 5, e.g., the opening 5a, can include at least one slope 5b. See Figures 2b, 2d, and 2f. This allows the stopper surface 12 to be located outside the inclined surface. The inclined surface 5b can be positioned adjacent to the locking surface 5g and can form a groove guide surface.

[0062] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 10a-10e and 11a, the stopper surface 12 may be located at or vertically above the top of the tongue groove 5. The stopper surface 12 may be located at or vertically above the opening 5a. For example, the stopper surface 12 may be part of the upper slope 5b of the tongue groove 5. See Figures 10a-10b and 11a.

[0063] In any embodiment of the present disclosure, the stopper surface 12 may be an edge surface and may extend along the second edge 2b, preferably having a constant cross section along the edge. See Figures 1e and 12b. In the vertically locked state, the locking portion 6 may be spaced apart from the stopper surface 12. See, for example, Figures 2c-2d, 10b, and 10e.

[0064] For example, as shown in Figures 2b, 2f, 5e, 7f, 8b, 9b, and 9d, at least a portion, e.g., all, of the stopper surface 12 may be preferably essentially vertically extending, e.g., vertically extending planar. By extending essentially vertically, the stopper surface 12 may form an angle ζ of 0°-10°, e.g., 0°-5°, or 0°-2°, with respect to the normal N. See Figure 2a.

[0065] 10a-10e and 11a-11c may be planar and inclined relative to the vertical direction Z by, for example, 0°≦δ≦45°, e.g., 10°≦δ≦30°. In some embodiments, a portion of the stop surface 12 may be planar and primarily vertical. For example, the stop surface 12 may be formed by an acute corner between the joining surface 2k of the second edge 2b and the upper wall 5h of the tongue groove 5, which are, for example, at approximately 90° relative to each other.

[0066] In some embodiments, as shown schematically in Figures 2b, 2f, 7f, 8f, 9b and 9d, the abutment member 13, e.g. its outer surface 13a, may, in the locked state, preferably extend essentially perpendicular to the vertical direction Z. This may provide a simpler unlocking together with a preferably essentially vertical, e.g. vertical, stop surface 12.

[0067] However, in some embodiments, as shown schematically in Figures 5e and 6b, the abutment member 13, e.g., the outer surface 13a, may be inclined at an angle β relative to the vertical direction Z in the locked state. In a first example, as shown in Figure 6b, the angle may be negative, such that the outer surface 13a is inclined inward, e.g., in the range of 0°<β≦10°, e.g., 1°≦β5°. In a second example, as shown in Figure 5e, the angle may be positive, such that the outer surface 13a is inclined outward, e.g., in the range of 0°<β≦10°, e.g., 1°≦β5°.

[0068] Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the stop surface 12 may be inclined relative to the inclined abutment member 13. In the locked state, a relative angle φ may exist between the stop surface and the abutment member. See FIGS. 5e and 6b. A non-zero relative angle φ may result in simpler disassembly of the panels. For example, a negative relative angle φ may be -10°<φ≦0°, e.g., -5°≦φ≦-1°. A positive relative angle φ may additionally provide greater bending of the separate tongue 3, thereby shortening the locking length of the separate tongue and, for example, simplifying disassembly. For example, 0°<φ≦10°, e.g., 1°≦φ≦5°.

[0069] 10a-10e and 11a-11c may be planar and may be inclined, for example, at an angle of 0°≦θ≦45°, for example 10°≦θ30°, relative to the vertical direction Z in the locked state. For example, the shapes of the stopper surface 12 and the outer surface 13a may substantially match each other.

[0070] The oppositely arranged displacement surfaces 3g, 3h of the separate tongue 3 can vertically position the separate tongue in the insertion groove 4, preferably by cooperating with its inner walls 4c, 4d. Furthermore, the displacement surfaces 3g, 3h can be configured to be displaced relative to the inner walls 4c, 4d during locking or unlocking. The displacement is preferably directed along the lateral extension T of the separate tongue and / or along the groove plane GP or GQ.

[0071] The separate tongue 3 may include a flexible member 3b, e.g., a flexible leg, configured to face the inner portion 4a of the insertion groove 4 when disposed in the insertion groove. The flexible member 3b may be bendable between an inner position 3k and an outer position 3l, preferably along a tongue insertion direction and / or tongue displacement direction of the insertion groove, which may be parallel to the lateral extent T of the separate tongue (see arrows BE in FIGS. 4b and 14a-14b). This allows the separate tongue 3 to be displaceable between the inner and outer positions of the insertion groove. Inward pressure applied to the separate tongue 3 during locking (see arrow B1) or unlocking (see arrow B2) may displace the separate tongue 3 inward toward the inner position. During locking (see arrow B1') or unlocking (see arrow B2'), the flexible member 3b may be configured to displace the separate tongue 3 outwardly towards its outer position, e.g., due to the biasing force of the flexible member 3b. For example, the separate tongue may be compressed.

[0072] The separate tongue 3 may be made of a polymer-based material, e.g., a thermoplastic material such as PP, and optionally a reinforcing element such as glass fiber. For example, the separate tongue may be formed by injection molding. Optionally, at least one friction element 3f may be provided to prevent displacement out of the insertion groove 4. The friction element 3f may be a localized protrusion arranged on one or more flexible members 3b, preferably shaped as a localized protrusion extending vertically outward from one or both of the displacement surfaces 3g, 3h. Cooperation between the stop surface 12 and the abutment member 13 prevents the separate tongue from displacing into the tongue groove 5 at the longitudinal end 3a. Preferably, in the vertical locking state, the abutment member 13 is pretensioned against the stop surface 12.

[0073] In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1b, 1d, and 6e, at least two separate tongues 3, e.g., multiple separate tongues, may be arranged in the insertion groove 4. The separate tongues 3 may be arranged side by side along the first edges 1a, 2a, e.g., along the first horizontal direction X, and / or along the third edges 1c, 2c, as shown in FIG. 1b. For example, the first edges 1a, 2a may be short edges, but long edges are also conceivable. Note that the locking devices at the third edges 1c, 2c and the fourth edges 1d, 2d, e.g., in FIG. 1b, may be embodied in the same manner as the locking devices at the first edges 1a, 2a and the second edges 1b, 2b, e.g., in FIGS. 2a-2f.

[0074] A plurality of separate tongues 3 with abutment members 13 at a single longitudinal end 3a can be oriented in the insertion groove 4 in a similar manner, for example with the abutment members 13 of the separate tongues located at the same longitudinal end 3a, see Fig. 6e. This allows each of the separate tongues to be appropriately displaced into and out of the insertion groove 4 along the entire length of the first edge 1a. Also, the edges 1a, 2b are unlockable.

[0075] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that in some embodiments, at least two separate tongues 3, each having an abutment member 13 at opposite longitudinal ends 3a, may be positioned side by side in the insertion groove 4. For example, any of the separate tongues in Figures 2a-2f, 3a-3d, 4a-4e, 5a-5e, 6a-6c, 9a-9f, 10a-10e, 11a-11c, and 14a-14d may be used.

[0076] In the present disclosure generally, for example, in any of Figures 1a-1e, 2a-2f, 3a-3d, 4a-4e, 5a-5e, 6a-6e, 7a-7f, 8a-8f, 9a-9f, 10a-10e, 11a-11d, 12a-12b, and 14a-14d, the abutment member 13 of the separate tongue 3 may be disposed at an end section 11 of the first edge 1a, which may be adjacent to the third edge 1c, 2c. See Figures 1e, 6e, and 12a-12b. The end section 11 may be configured to be locked in the final stage of locking of the edges 1a, 2a (see arrow A1) and / or unlocked in the initial stage of unlocking of the edges 1a, 2a (see arrow A2), preferably by bending displacement.

[0077] In FIG. 1b, the longitudinal ends 3a of the separate tongues 3 at the short edges 1a, 2a and long edges 1c, 2c may be provided with an abutment member 13 at one longitudinal end 3a. Preferably, the abutment member of the separate tongues at the long edges is adjacent to the corner 8a where the strips 8, 18 of the long and short edges meet (see below). This may reduce the risk of unintentional unlocking of the long edges, for example, in their midsections. Furthermore, the abutment member of the separate tongues at the short edges is preferably provided adjacent to the corner 8a and / or at the end section 11. Optionally, the separate tongues 3 at the short edges 1a, 2a may also be provided with an abutment member 13 at the opposite longitudinal end 3a (see the leftmost reference number 13 in FIG. 1b).

[0078] In the present disclosure as a whole, a flexible member 3b may extend from each base portion 3r of the separate tongue 3. Each flexible member may extend from and bend around its respective base portion 3r. As shown in FIGS. 14a-14b, the flexible member 3b extending from the base portion 3r disposed at the longitudinal end 3a may extend from and bend around the longitudinal inner surface 3u of the base portion 3r. The inner surface 3u may be the region of the base portion 3r facing opposite the nearest longitudinal outermost edge 3v of the separate tongue. In other words, the end segment 3t of the flexible member 3b may face the longitudinal center of the separate tongue. Therefore, unlocking initiated from this longitudinal end 3a is preferred.

[0079] As shown in FIG. 14a, the flexible members 3b can all be oriented in the same direction. For example, the flexible members 3b can all extend from the same longitudinal side, such as the inner surface 3u or outer surface 3w of the base portion 3r. FIG. 14b shows that in some embodiments, the flexible members 3b extending from the base portion 3r disposed at each longitudinal end 3a can extend from the longitudinal inner surface 3u of the base portion 3r and be bendable around it. Therefore, unlocking from either longitudinal end 3a can be equally suitable. As shown in FIG. 14b, the flexible members 3b can be grouped into two oppositely oriented sets S1 and S2. For example, the flexible members 3b extend from opposite longitudinal sides, such as the inner surface 3u, of the base portion 3r of each set S1 and S2. For example, the distance DF from the outermost longitudinal edge to the flexible member 3b, such as the end segment 3t, can be 5-30 mm, such as 10-20 mm.

[0080] In some embodiments, the abutment member 13 may be at least partially disposed longitudinally outward from the flexible member 3b. For example, see Figures 14c-14d. For example, the abutment member 13 may be entirely disposed longitudinally outward from the flexible member 3b. The separate tongue 3 preferably includes a support member 3s disposed longitudinally outward from the flexible member 3b. The support member 3s may cooperate with the inner portion 4a during locking.

[0081] In some embodiments, the first edge 1a may include an auxiliary groove 4b for accommodating at least a portion of the abutment member 13 during locking. See FIGS. 9a-9b. The auxiliary groove 4b may be located below the opening 4e of the insertion groove 4 and may extend along the first edge 1a, at least at the position of the abutment member 13, for example, along the entire first edge. This allows the abutment member 13 to be at least partially, for example, entirely, below the groove plane GP in the locked state. See, for example, FIG. 9a. The insertion groove may be located above the groove plane GP. This allows the abutment member 13 to be displaced outside the insertion groove 4 during locking.

[0082] In any of the embodiments of the present disclosure, for example, in Figures 1a-1e, 2a-2f, 4c, 5d-5e, 6e, 7a-7f, 8a-8f, 9a-9f, 10a-10e, 11a, 11d, 12a-12b, and 14a-14d, the first edge 1a may include a strip 8 extending horizontally outward from a lower portion thereof, e.g., along the second horizontal direction Y. The horizontal locking device may include a locking element 7 disposed on the strip 8, preferably extending upward, and a locking groove 9 in the second edge 2b. The locking element 7 may be configured to cooperate with, e.g., engage with, the locking groove 9 to provide horizontal locking between the first edge 1a and the second edge 2b. For example, the inner portion 7a of the locking element 7 and the outer portion 9a of the locking groove 9 together with the joining upper portions 1g, 2g can lock the edge portions 1a and 2b in two corresponding horizontal directions, for example along the second horizontal direction Y, see Fig. 2e.

[0083] In some embodiments, for example as shown in Figures 2a-2f, 7a-7f, 8a-8f, 9a-9f, 10a-10e, and 11a, the inner walls 4c, 4d of the insertion groove 4 may extend essentially horizontally, for example essentially parallel to the main plane M1. This may be suitable for thicker panels, such as floor panels, for example having a thickness TP of at least 10 mm, preferably 10-25 mm, more preferably 12-16 mm.

[0084] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 5d-5e, the insertion groove 4 may be inclined by an angle γ. The angle γ may be defined as the inclination of the groove plane GP relative to the main plane M1 (translated downward in Figure 5d for clarity). For example, the angle γ may be less than 20°, preferably 5-15°, e.g., 10°. This may be suitable for thinner panels, such as laminate floor panels having a thickness not exceeding 10 mm, e.g., 8-10 mm.

[0085] Those skilled in the art will understand that the above-described embodiments are exemplary, and that the insertion groove embodiments in the preceding two paragraphs having angles γ=0 and γ>0 may be interchangeable.

[0086] As shown in Figures 9c-9f, the second edge 2b may have a recess 5c for receiving the abutment member 13 in the locked state. The stop surface 12 may be provided as an inner recess 5d and / or a lower recess 5e. Preferably, the recess 5c is provided below the tongue groove 5. The second edge 2b may further have a protrusion 5f provided below the recess 5c. The recess and / or protrusion may extend essentially along the entire second edge, preferably with a constant cross section. The recess and / or protrusion may simplify disassembly of the panel. In particular, the separate tongue 3 may be displaced more quickly into the insertion groove 4. Furthermore, the displacement may be further controlled. Preferably, the inner recess 5d and / or the lower recess 5e are planar. For example, the inner recess 5d may extend essentially vertically, for example, at an angle of 0°-10°, preferably 0°-5°. The lower concave surface 5e may extend at an angle α with respect to the vertical direction Z such that 10°≦α≦45°, preferably 10°≦α≦30°.

[0087] In some embodiments, the upper joint portions 1g and 2g may overlap in the horizontal direction. As shown in Figures 5d-5e, the second edge portion 2b may extend above the first edge portion 1a. For example, the first edge portion 1a and the second edge portion 2b may include a ledge portion 1i and a lap portion 2i, respectively, which cooperate, e.g., engage, with each other in a locked state. A vertical plane VP may extend along the upper joint portions 1g and 2g of the edges 1a and 2b. In the embodiment of Figures 5d-5e, the upper joint portions 1g and 2g may be disposed along the outermost horizontal surface of the upper portion 1g, e.g., the ledge portion 1i.

[0088] The first edge 1a and the second edge 2b can be configured to be vertically locked to each other by a relative vertical displacement A1 of the first edge and the second edge relative to each other, for example, by displacing the second edge relative to the first edge. The relative vertical displacement A1 preferably includes a bending displacement, or equivalently, a scissor displacement (e.g., a so-called folding), whereby the second edge is gradually displaced vertically toward the first edge. See, for example, Figures 1e, 7a-7f, 8a-8f, 9a-9f, and 10c-10e (see the downward-pointing arrows A1 in Figures 8a-8f and 9c-9f). The bending displacement allows the separate tongue 3, e.g., the locking portion 6, to be gradually inserted into the insertion groove 4 along the first edge 1a in a first stage. Then, in a subsequent second step, it can be gradually inserted into the tongue groove 5 along the second edge 2b. It is also clear that the relative vertical displacement A1 can cause the edges 1a and 2b to be locked in the horizontal direction, for example by cooperation of the locking element 7 and the locking groove 9.

[0089] During locking, the second edge 2b, preferably the lower cooperating surface 2j, can preferably directly cooperate with the outer cooperating surface 3e of the separate tongue 3 to displace it into the insertion groove 4. See, for example, Figures 7a-7f, 8a-8f, 9c-9f, and 10c-10e (see arrow A1). For example, during locking, the second edge 2b, preferably the lower cooperating surface 2j, can preferably directly cooperate with the locking portion 6 to displace the separate tongue 3 into the insertion groove 4. The abutment member 13 and the locking portion 6 can be operably coupled. Thereby, during locking, the second edge 2b presses the locking portion 6 toward the interior 4a, so that the abutment member moves together with the locking portion toward the interior 4a. The lower cooperating surface 2j and the outer cooperating surface 3e can preferably be inclined with substantially corresponding inclinations. For example, the outer cooperating surface 3e may be arranged on the longitudinal outer section 3q. Furthermore, the outer cooperating surface 3e preferably extends along substantially the entire longitudinal extent L. Optionally, the outer cooperating surface 3e may be chamfered by a chamfer 3p at the longitudinal end 3a. Preferably, such a chamfer 3p may cooperate with the second edge 2b during locking to gradually insert the separate tongue 3 into the insertion groove. The longitudinal end 3a may comprise a longitudinally curved section 3x when viewed from the top and / or bottom view of the separate tongue 3. The chamfer 3p may be arranged on the curved section 3x.

[0090] During locking, preferably during and / or between the first and second stages, at least one selected from the group of stopper surface 12, inclined surface 5b, inner concave surface 5d, lower concave surface 5e and convex portion 5f may cooperate with the separate tongue portion 3, for example with tip portion 3i and / or abutment member 13.

[0091] In any embodiment of the present disclosure, the abutment member 13 may include a straight portion extending parallel to the longitudinal extent L and optionally being generally straight. See, for example, Figures 3a-3b, 4a-4e, 5a-5c, 6a-6e, 11b-11c, and 14a-14d. Preferably, the straight portion is located longitudinally inward of the longitudinal curved section 3x and / or the chamfer 3p.

[0092] During relative vertical displacement A1, preferably during bending displacement, the pair of third edges 1c, 1c', 2c and the pair of fourth edges 1d, 2d can be configured to lock relative to one another by relative angular displacement of the third and fourth edges relative to one another, e.g., by angling the third edges relative to the fourth edges. See FIG. 1e. The edges 1c, 1c', 2c, 1d, 2d can be locked relative to one another vertically and horizontally, e.g., by locking devices integrally formed in the cores of the panels 1, 1', 2. For example, the edges can be connected by cooperating tongues 14 and tongue grooves 15 and locking elements 17 on the strips 18 that cooperate with locking grooves 19. See, e.g., FIG. 12d. Alternatively, the edges can be connected in a similar manner to the embodiments of the first edges 1a, 2a and the second edges 1b, 2b described herein, e.g., as shown in Figures 2a-2f, 5d-5e, 6e, 7a-7f, 8a-8f, 9a-9f, 10a-10e, and 11. For example, third edges 1c, 2c and fourth edges 1d, 2d, e.g., as shown in Figure 1b, can be used, each having one or more separate tongues 3. For other embodiments of edges 1c, 1c', 2c, 1d, and 2d, see, e.g., page 2, lines 13-22, and Figures 1a-1e and 2a-2e of WO2021 / 206611A1, the contents of which are expressly incorporated by reference.

[0093] The first and second edges 1 a, 2 b can be configured to be vertically unlocked by a relative vertical displacement (A2) of the first and second edges away from one another, preferably by a bending displacement. See, e.g., FIGS. 1 e, 8 a-8 f, 9 e-9 f, and 12 a-12 b. Alternatively or additionally, the first and second edges 1 a, 2 b can be configured to be vertically unlocked by repeated relative vertical displacement (A2′) of the first and second edges away from one another. See, e.g., FIGS. 1 e, 8 a-8 f, 9 c-9 f, and 12 a-12 c (see the upward-pointing numbered arrows A2 in FIGS. 8 a-8 f and 9 c-9 f). The bending displacement allows the separate tongue 3, e.g., locking element 6, to be gradually displaced out of the tongue groove 5 along the second edge 2b and inserted into the insertion groove 4 along the first edge 1a, thereby gradually unlocking the edges 1a, 2b from one another. Similarly to the above, the relative vertical displacement A2, A2' also allows the edges 1a, 2b to be unlocked horizontally, e.g., by disengaging the locking element 7 from the locking groove 9. By unlocking the edges 1a, 2b, the first and second panels can be disassembled from one another.

[0094] During unlocking, the second edge 2b may cooperate with a separate tongue 3, e.g., the locking portion 6, to displace it into the insertion groove. See, e.g., Figures 8a-8f and 9c-9f (see arrow A2). For example, at least one selected from the group consisting of the stopper surface 12, the inclined surface 5b, the inner concave surface 5d, the lower concave surface 5e, and the protrusion 5f may cooperate with the separate tongue, e.g., the tip 3i and / or the abutment member 13.

[0095] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 12a-12c, disengagement can be achieved by a lifting element 16. The lifting element 16 can include a wedge portion 16a and a preferably inclined support portion 16b. See, for example, Figure 12c. This type of disengagement can be particularly suitable when the panels 1, 2 are preferably placed on a substantially flat or horizontal base floor 20. For example, by inserting the lifting element 16 between the back surface 2f of the second panel 2 and the base floor 20, the assembled first and second panels can be lifted or angled together, for example, along the third edges 1c, 2c. For example, gradually displacing the lifting element 16 below the back surface 2f can gradually vertically lift the assembled panels 1, 2 by the wedge portion 16a. Upon insertion, the back surface 2f can rest on the support portion 16b. A force F can then be applied to the front surface 1e of the first panel. This allows the first and second edges to be relatively vertically displaced away from each other (A2) and unlocked vertically. See Figure 12b. By applying a larger force F, unlocking can be more rapid.

[0096] In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 13a-13d, a separate tool 22, e.g., an elongated rod, can be used to unlock the edges 1a, 2b and thus disassemble the panels 1, 2. Such unlocking is preferred for the embodiment in FIGS. 10c-10e, as indicated by the dashed lines in FIG. 10e (see arrows A2 or A2'). Preferably, the separate tool 22 has a cylindrical end 23, e.g., a cylindrical cross-section along its entire length. However, other shapes are possible. In a non-limiting embodiment, the thickness TT of the separate tool can be 0.5-2.0 mm, preferably 0.8-1.5 mm, e.g., 1.1 mm. By inserting the separate tool 22 into the tongue groove 5 (see arrow AW), the separate tongue 3, e.g., the locking portion 6, can be gradually displaced out of the tongue groove 5 along the second edge 2b and inserted into the insertion groove 4 along the first edge 1a. This allows the edges 1a, 2b to gradually unlock from one another.

[0097] Other unlocking methods are likewise conceivable, in particular those described on page 18, line 22 - page 21, line 10, and Figures 13, 14a-14d, 15a-15b, and 16a-16b of WO2022 / 197234A1, the contents of which are expressly incorporated by reference.

[0098] During locking and / or unlocking, the separate tongue 3 may be at least partially, e.g., essentially entirely, straight along its longitudinal extent. See FIG. 4a. For example, when displacing into the insertion groove 4, preferably at least the outermost surface 3m of the separate tongue at the locking portion 6 may be straight. Preferably, it changes from a convex shape (see curvature Q) to a less convex shape (see curvature Q'), e.g., essentially straight. For example, any local portion of the outermost surface 3m may form a maximum angle of 0°-10°, preferably 0°-5°, more preferably 0°-2°, with the inner portion 4a, or may be completely straight (i.e., 0°) (see curvature S). For example, the outermost surface 3m may be located on the upper surface of the separate tongue 3 and / or the first panel.

[0099] For example, if at least one separate tongue 3 is provided on short edges 1 a, 2 a, as in Figure 1 a, the short edges can be locked or unlocked by folding, and long edges with integrally formed locking devices can be locked or unlocked by angling. For example, if at least one separate tongue 3 is provided along short edges 1 a, 2 a and at least one separate tongue 3 is provided along long edges 1 c, 2 c, as in Figure 1 b, the short edges can be locked or unlocked by angling and / or folding.

[0100] The present disclosure has been primarily described with reference to several embodiments. However, as those skilled in the art can easily understand, other embodiments besides those disclosed above are also possible within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, it is clear that any of the embodiments shown in Figures 2a-2f, 4c, 5d-5e, 7a-7f, 8a-8f, 9a-9f, 10a-10e, and 11a can be implemented with appropriate modifications depending on whether the separate tongue 3 comprises a single abutment member 13 or two of them at two opposing longitudinal ends 3a, as shown in Figures 1c or 1d, in the locked state. Furthermore, it is emphasized that any of the panels 1, 2, and 1' in the present disclosure can comprise any of the core materials and / or any of the layers, or a combination thereof, as specified at the end of the referenced Abstract. Finally, it is clear that the folding displacement described herein, for example, of edges 1a and 2b, can be achieved by angling the adjacent edge, for example, of the third edge 2c. See Figure 1e and Figures 12a-12c.

Claims

1. A set of panels, such as building panels, comprising a first panel (1), a second panel (2) and a locking device for locking a first edge (1a) of the first panel to a second edge (2b) of the second panel, the panels having a front surface (1e; 2e) and a rear surface (1f; 2f), the normal (N) of a main plane (M1; M2) extending along the front surface and / or the rear surface defining a vertical direction (Z) extending away from the front surfaces (1e; 2e) of the first panel (1) and the second panel (2), The locking device comprises a horizontal locking device and a vertical locking device; The vertical locking device is a separate tongue portion (3) disposed in the insertion groove (4) of the first edge portion (1 a), the separate tongue portion (3) having a longitudinal extension range (L) extending along the first edge portion (1 a); a tongue groove (5) provided on and extending along the second edge (2b); Provided with; In the vertically locked state of the first edge portion (1a) and the second edge portion (2b), an abutment (13) provided on the longitudinal end (3a) of the separate tongue (3) cooperates with a stop surface (12) on the second edge (2b), the stop surface (12) being planar and extending essentially vertically; The locking portion (6) of the separate tongue (3) cooperates with the tongue groove (5); During locking, the locking portion (6) is configured to be gradually inserted into the insertion groove (4) along the first edge (1a) in a first stage, and then, in a subsequent second stage, the locking portion (6) is configured to be gradually inserted into the tongue groove (5) along the second edge (2b); A set of panels.

2. The abutment member (13) is provided on the outer lower part of the separate tongue portion (3).

10. The set of panels of claim 1.

3. The abutment member (13) protrudes downward. A set of panels according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The abutment member (13) is one of at least two abutment members (13), both opposing longitudinal ends (3a) of said separate tongue (3) are provided with a respective one of said at least two abutment members (13); A set of panels according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The first edge (1 a) of the first panel and the second edge (2 b) of the second panel are short edges that are shorter than the long edges. A set of panels according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The stopper surface (12) is disposed below the tongue groove (5). A set of panels according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The stopper surface (12) is disposed outside the opening (5a) of the tongue groove (5). A set of panels according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The locking portion (6) of the separate tongue portion (3) is spaced apart from the stopper surface (12) in the vertical locking state. A set of panels according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. In the vertical locking state, the abutment member (13) is pretensioned against the stopper surface (12). A set of panels according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The separate tongue portion (3) includes a flexible member (3b) configured to face the interior (4a) of the insertion groove (4) when the separate tongue portion (3) is disposed in the insertion groove (4); the flexible member (3b) is configured to displace the separate tongue (3) during locking or unlocking. A set of panels according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. The flexible members (3b) each extend from a base portion (3r) of each of the separate tongue portions (3); a flexible member (3b) extending from a base portion (3r) disposed at the longitudinal end portion (3a) extends from an inner longitudinal surface (3u) of the base portion (3r) and is bendable around the periphery thereof; The set of panels according to claim 10.

12. the abutment member (13) is arranged at least partially longitudinally outward from the flexible member (3b); A set of panels according to claim 10 or 11.

13. The locking portion (6) of the separate tongue portion (3) bends in the longitudinal direction in the vertical locking state. A set of panels according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. the horizontal locking device comprises locking elements (7) arranged in a strip (8) extending horizontally outward from the bottom of the first edge (1 a) and a locking groove (9) provided in the second edge (2 b); The locking element (7) and the locking groove (9) are configured to cooperate to provide a horizontal locking between the first edge (1 a) and the second edge (2 b). A set of panels according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. the first edge (1 a) and the second edge (2 b) are configured to be vertically unlocked by forcing a relative vertical displacement of the first and second edges away from each other and / or by repeatedly forcing a relative vertical displacement of the first and second edges away from and towards each other; A set of panels according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

16. During locking, the second edge (2b) cooperates with the locking portion (6) to displace the separate tongue (3) into the insertion groove (4). A set of panels according to any one of claims 1 to 15.

17. The abutment member (13) of the separate tongue portion (3) and the locking portion (6) are operably coupled together, so that during locking, the second edge portion (2b) presses the locking portion (6) toward the inside (4a) of the insertion groove (4), causing the abutment member (13) to move together with the locking portion (6) in a direction toward the inside (4a) of the insertion groove (4). A set of panels according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

18. The abutment member (13) has a straight portion extending parallel to the longitudinal extension range (L) of the separate tongue portion (3). A set of panels according to any one of claims 1 to 17.

19. the straight portion is arranged longitudinally inside a longitudinal curved section (3x) provided at the longitudinal end (3a); 20. The set of panels of claim 18.

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