Building panel with mechanical locking system

Abstract

A set of panels including a first panel 1 and a second panel 1', each of which includes a main surface, a first edge 4a, an opposing second edge 4b, a third edge 5a adjacent to the first edge 4a and optionally perpendicular thereto, and a fourth edge 5b opposite the third edge 5a. The set includes a mechanical locking device configured to lock the first edge of the first panel to the second edge of the second panel at the seam J. The locking device comprises a flexible tongue 30, which is arranged in an insertion groove 40 in the first edge 4a of the first panel and in a tongue groove 20 in the second edge 4b ​​of the second panel 4b. The mechanical locking device is configured such that when a force P' is applied adjacent to the first edge 4a in the locked position, the first edge portion 31 is pressed towards a bottom surface 43 of the insertion groove 40, which allows disassembling the second panel 1' from the first panel 1.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE INVENTION Embodiments of the present invention relate to panels, such as building panels, floor panels, wall panels, ceiling panels, furniture components, etc., that are provided with a mechanical locking system. [Background technology]

[0002] Building panels are known that are provided with a mechanical locking system comprising a displaceable, resilient tongue that cooperates with a tongue groove for vertical locking, as disclosed, for example, in WO2014209213 and WO2020 / 145862. The tongue is a separate part, for example made of plastic, that is inserted into the displacement groove at the edge of the panel. The tongue is pressed into the displacement groove during vertical assembly of the panel and springs back into the tongue groove of the adjacent panel when the panel reaches the locked position.

[0003] A drawback of known mechanical systems is that they require tools to easily disassemble the panels.

[0004] The above descriptions of various known embodiments are applicant's characterizations of such and are not an admission that any of the above descriptions qualify as prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0005] It is an object of certain embodiments of the present invention to provide improvements over the above-mentioned and known techniques. In particular, the disassembly of panels with known locking systems is improved by embodiments of the invention.

[0006] At least some of these and other objects and advantages that will be apparent from the description are achieved by a first aspect of the invention, which comprises a set of panels, such as building panels, the set comprising a first panel and a second panel, each of the first and second panels including a major surface, a first edge, an opposing second edge, a third edge adjacent and optionally perpendicular to the first edge, and a fourth edge opposite the third edge, the set comprising a mechanical locking device configured to lock the first edge of the first panel to the second edge of the second panel at a joint, the locking device comprising a flexible tongue disposed in an insertion groove in the first edge of the first panel and a tongue groove in the second edge of the second panel, the flexible tongue having an elongated shape with a length parallel to the first edge, and the flexible tongue comprising a central portion between the first and second edges of the flexible tongue. The central portion is configured to cooperate with the tongue groove for locking the first and second edges in a first direction perpendicular to the major surfaces in a locked position of the first and second panels.

[0007] In the locked position, the first edge portion and tongue groove are configured such that when a force is applied adjacent the first edge and third edge of the first panel, and optionally another force is applied adjacent the second edge and third edge of the second panel, the first edge portion is pushed toward a bottom surface of the insertion groove, which displaces the third edge of the second panel relative to the third edge of the first panel, thereby enabling disassembly of the second panel from the first panel.

[0008] An advantage may be that the first and second panels may be easily disassembled. A further advantage may be that the first and second panels may be disassembled without tools or by applying force with a tool.

[0009] The mechanical lock may be configured such that when the third edge of the second panel is displaced relative to the third edge of the first panel, the central portion is pushed toward the bottom surface of the insertion groove so that the mechanical locking device is unlocked.

[0010] The first panel and the second panel may be essentially identical.

[0011] The force and the further force may be applied in a direction opposite to the first direction.

[0012] The force may be applied away from the seam and away from the upper and outermost portion of the third edge of the first panel.

[0013] The additional force may be applied away from the seam and away from the upper and outermost portion of the third edge of the second panel.

[0014] The first panel may be configured to bend about an axis parallel to an outermost portion of the first edge of the first panel when a force is applied, and / or the second panel may be configured to bend about an axis parallel to an outermost portion of the first edge of the second panel when a force is applied.

[0015] The first edge portion may include a flexible portion and a recess at the first edge, the flexible portion configured to displace toward a bottom surface of the recess during assembly and disassembly of the first and second panels, and the first edge portion may include a curved surface at a second edge opposite the first edge, the axis of the curved surface being essentially perpendicular to the top surface of the first edge portion, and the curved surface extending at least partially across the recess.

[0016] The curved surface may have a first length in the direction of the length of the flexible tongue in the unlocked position, and may have a second length in the direction of the length of the flexible tongue when the force and another force are applied, the second length being greater than the first length.

[0017] The curved surface in the locked position may be configured to be pushed towards the tongue groove by the flexible portion.

[0018] The first edge portion may include a protruding portion adjacent the curved surface, which may prevent or oppose rotation of the first edge portion relative to the insertion groove during assembly and disassembly.

[0019] The force may be applied at a first edge of the first panel adjacent the curved surface.

[0020] The force may be applied to a major surface of the first panel.

[0021] The first edge portion may comprise a guide surface configured to cooperate with the tongue groove when a force and another force are applied at the first edge to displace the second edge toward the insertion groove.

[0022] The flexible tongue may be configured to bend longitudinally when the guide surface cooperates with the tongue groove when the second edge is displaced towards the insertion groove to obtain a bent tongue portion together with a bent outer edge.

[0023] The bent outer edge may be configured as a guide surface that cooperates with the edge surface and / or tongue groove of the second panel so that the central portion is pressed towards the bottom surface of the insertion groove, unlocking the mechanical locking device.

[0024] The central portion may have a flexible portion and a recess at a first edge, the flexible portion configured to displace toward a bottom surface of the recess during assembly and disassembly of the first and second panels, and the first central portion has an essentially linear surface at a second edge opposite the first edge, the second edge configured to cooperate with a tongue groove for locking the first and second edges in the first direction.

[0025] The second edge of the central portion may include a locking edge configured to cooperate with a locking surface of the tongue and groove to lock the first and second edges in the first direction.

[0026] The second edge of the central portion may include a locking recess adjacent the locking edge.

[0027] The locking recess may comprise a first recess surface and a second recess surface adjacent the locking edge, the first recess surface extending at an acute angle to a centerline of the flexible tongue, which may have the advantage of increasing locking strength.

[0028] The first panel may be configured to bend about an axis parallel to an outermost portion of the third edge of the second panel when the third edge of the second panel is displaced relative to the third edge of the first panel.

[0029] The thickness of the panel may be in the range of about 3 mm to about 15 mm, and preferably in the range of about 4 mm to about 8 mm.

[0030] The mechanical locking device may comprise a first locking strip having a first locking element provided at a first edge or an opposite second edge, the first locking element being configured to cooperate with a first locking groove at the other of the first edge or the second edge for locking in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0031] The mechanical locking device may comprise a second locking strip provided at the third edge or the fourth edge with a second locking element configured to cooperate with a second locking groove at the other of the third edge or the fourth edge of the adjacent third panel for locking in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0032] The mechanical locking devices on the third edge and the fourth edge may be configured for assembly and / or disassembly by angular movement, with a tongue on the third edge or the fourth edge positioned in a tongue groove on the other of the third edge or the fourth edge.

[0033] A second aspect of the invention provides a flexible tongue configured to lock a first edge of a first panel to a second edge of a second panel, the flexible tongue being configured to be positioned in an insertion groove at a first edge of the first panel and to cooperate with a tongue groove at a second edge of the second panel. The flexible tongue has an elongated shape, with its length parallel to the first edge. The flexible tongue has a central portion between the second edge of the flexible tongue and the first edge, the central portion being configured to cooperate with the tongue groove to lock the first edge to the second edge. The first edge portion includes a flexible portion and a recess at the first edge, the flexible portion being configured to displace toward a bottom surface of the recess during assembly and disassembly of the first and second panels, and the first edge portion includes a curved surface at a second edge opposite the first edge, the axis of the curved surface being essentially perpendicular to the top surface of the first edge portion. The curved surface extends at least partially across the recess.

[0034] The curved surface may have a first length along the length of the flexible tongue in the unlocked position and may have a second length along the length of the flexible tongue in the locked position, the second length being greater than the first length.

[0035] The curved surface in the locked position may be configured to be pushed towards the tongue groove by the flexible portion.

[0036] The first edge portion may comprise a guide surface at the first edge that is configured to cooperate with the tongue groove such that when a force is applied adjacent the first edge of the first panel and / or when another force is applied adjacent the second edge of the second panel 1, the second edge is guided towards the insertion groove.

[0037] The flexible tongue may be configured to bend longitudinally when the guide surface cooperates with the tongue groove when a force and another force are applied such that the central portion is pressed toward the bottom surface of the insertion groove and the mechanical locking device is unlocked.

[0038] The central portion may have a flexible portion and a recess at a first edge, the flexible portion configured to displace toward a bottom surface of the recess during assembly and disassembly of the first and second panels, and the first central portion has an essentially linear surface at a second edge opposite the first edge, the second edge configured to cooperate with a tongue groove for locking the first and second edges in the first direction.

[0039] The second edge of the central portion may include a locking edge configured to cooperate with a locking surface of the tongue and groove to lock the first and second edges in the first direction.

[0040] The second edge of the central portion may include a locking recess adjacent the locking edge.

[0041] The locking recess may include a first recess surface adjacent the locking edge and a second recess surface, the first recess surface extending at an acute angle relative to a centerline of the flexible tongue.

[0042] A third aspect of the invention is a method for disassembling a set of panels, such as building panels, including a first panel and a second panel, each having a major surface, a first edge, an opposing second edge, a third edge adjacent to and optionally perpendicular to the first edge, and a fourth edge opposite the third edge. The set comprises a mechanical locking device configured to lock the first edge of the first panel to the second edge of the second panel at seam J, the locking device comprising a flexible tongue disposed in an insertion groove in the first edge of the first panel and in the second edge of the second panel. The flexible tongue has an elongated shape, with its length direction parallel to the first edge. The flexible tongue comprises a central portion between the first and second edge portions of the flexible tongue, the central portion configured to cooperate with the tongue groove for locking the first and second edges in a first direction perpendicular to the major surfaces when the first and second panels are in a locked position. The method comprises: applying a force adjacent the third edge and adjacent the first edge of the first panel; Optionally, applying another force adjacent a third edge and adjacent a second edge of the second panel; thereby displacing the first edge portion toward a bottom surface of the insertion groove; and Decomposition of the second panel from the first panel by displacing the third edge of the second panel relative to the third edge of the first panel; Includes.

[0043] The method may further include displacing a third edge of the second panel relative to a third edge of the first panel, thereby displacing the central portion toward a bottom surface of the insertion groove to unlock the mechanical locking device.

[0044] The method may include applying a force and another force simultaneously or alternating between applying a force and a force.

[0045] The method may include applying the force and another force two or more times.

[0046] The first panel and the second panel may be essentially identical.

[0047] The method may include applying a force in a direction opposite the first direction and a further force.

[0048] The method may include applying a force away from the seam and away from an upper, outermost portion of the third edge of the first panel.

[0049] The method may include applying another force away from the seam and away from the upper, outermost portion of the third edge of the second panel.

[0050] The method may include bending the first panel about an axis parallel to an outermost portion of a first edge of the first panel when a force is applied, and / or bending the second panel about an axis parallel to an outermost portion of a first edge of the second panel when a force is applied.

[0051] The method may include bending the first panel about an axis that is parallel to an outermost portion of the third edge of the second panel when the third edge of the second panel is displaced relative to the third edge of the first panel.

[0052] The third aspect may comprise a set according to the first aspect and / or a tongue according to the second aspect.

[0053] The first and second panels may be resilient panels. The resilient panels may include a core comprising a polymeric material, such as a thermoplastic material. The thermoplastic material may be foamed.

[0054] 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 combinations thereof. The core may be formed of multiple layers.

[0055] The first and second panels may include a decorative layer, such as a decorative foil comprising a thermoplastic material. The thermoplastic material of the decorative layer may be or 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. The decorative foil is preferably printed, for example by direct printing, gravure printing, or digital printing.

[0056] The first and second panels may include a wear layer, such as a film or foil. The wear layer may include a thermoplastic material, which may be 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.

[0057] The disclosed embodiments may be particularly advantageous with respect to panels that include locking surfaces with higher friction.

[0058] The first and second panels may include a wood-based core such as HDF, MDF, or plywood. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0059] These and other aspects, features and advantages of which the disclosed embodiments are possible will become apparent and elucidated from the following description of the disclosed embodiments, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which: [Figure 1A] 1A-1D show an embodiment of a tongue according to the invention. [Figure 1B] 1A-1D show an embodiment of a tongue according to the invention. [Figure 1C] 1A-1D show an embodiment of a tongue according to the invention. [Figure 1D] 1A-1D show an embodiment of a tongue according to the invention. [Figure 2A] 2A-2C show cross sections of an embodiment of a set of panels according to the invention. [Figure 2B] 2A-2C show cross sections of an embodiment of a set of panels according to the invention. [Figure 2C] 2A-2C show cross sections of an embodiment of a set of panels according to the invention. [Figure 3A] 3A-3C show cross sections of an embodiment of a set of panels according to the invention. [Figure 3B] 3A-3C show cross sections of an embodiment of a set of panels according to the invention. [Figure 3C] 3A-3C show cross sections of an embodiment of a set of panels according to the invention. [Figure 4A] 4A to 4B are enlarged cross-sectional views of a portion of the set panel shown in FIGS. 2A to 2C. [Figure 4B] 4A to 4B are enlarged cross-sectional views of a portion of the set panel shown in FIGS. 2A to 2C. [Figure 5A] 5A and 5B are enlarged cross-sectional views of a portion of the set panel shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B. [Figure 5B] 5A and 5B are enlarged cross-sectional views of a portion of the set panel shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B. [Figure 6A] FIG. 6A shows an embodiment of a set under assembly according to the invention. [Figure 6B]FIG. 6B shows one embodiment of a panel according to the invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 shows an embodiment of a set during disassembly according to an embodiment of the invention. [Figure 8A] FIG. 8A shows an enlargement of a portion of the set as shown in FIG. [Figure 8B] FIG. 8B shows a set including four assembled panels in a locked position. [Figure 9A] 9A-9F show cross sections of an embodiment of a set at a first edge portion of a tongue during assembly according to the invention. [Figure 9B] 9A-9F show cross sections of an embodiment of a set at a first edge portion of a tongue during assembly according to the invention. [Figure 9C] 9A-9F show cross sections of an embodiment of a set at a first edge portion of a tongue during assembly according to the invention. [Figure 9D] 9A-9F show cross sections of an embodiment of a set at a first edge portion of a tongue during assembly according to the invention. [Figure 9E] 9A-9F show cross sections of an embodiment of a set at a first edge portion of a tongue during assembly according to the invention. [Figure 9F] 9A-9F show cross sections of an embodiment of a set at a first edge portion of a tongue during assembly according to the invention. [Figure 10A] 10A-10F show cross sections of an embodiment of the set in the central part of the tongue during assembly according to the invention. [Figure 10B] 10A-10F show cross sections of an embodiment of the set in the central part of the tongue during assembly according to the invention. [Figure 10C] 10A-10F show cross sections of an embodiment of the set in the central part of the tongue during assembly according to the invention. [Figure 10D] 10A-10F show cross sections of an embodiment of the set in the central part of the tongue during assembly according to the invention. [Figure 10E]10A-10F show cross sections of an embodiment of the set in the central part of the tongue during assembly according to the invention. [Figure 10F] 10A-10F show cross sections of an embodiment of the set in the central part of the tongue during assembly according to the invention. [Figure 11A] 11A-11F show cross sections of an embodiment of a set at a first edge portion of a tongue during assembly according to the invention. [Figure 11B] 11A-11F show cross sections of an embodiment of a set at a first edge portion of a tongue during assembly according to the invention. [Figure 11C] 11A-11F show cross sections of an embodiment of a set at a first edge portion of a tongue during assembly according to the invention. [Figure 11D] 11A-11F show cross sections of an embodiment of a set at a first edge portion of a tongue during assembly according to the invention. [Figure 11E] 11A-11F show cross sections of an embodiment of a set at a first edge portion of a tongue during assembly according to the invention. [Figure 11F] 11A-11F show cross sections of an embodiment of a set at a first edge portion of a tongue during assembly according to the invention. [Figure 12A] 12A-12F show cross sections of an embodiment of the set in the central part of the tongue during assembly according to the invention. [Figure 12B] 12A-12F show cross sections of an embodiment of the set in the central part of the tongue during assembly according to the invention. [Figure 12C] 12A-12F show cross sections of an embodiment of the set in the central part of the tongue during assembly according to the invention. [Figure 12D] 12A-12F show cross sections of an embodiment of the set in the central part of the tongue during assembly according to the invention. [Figure 12E] 12A-12F show cross sections of an embodiment of the set in the central part of the tongue during assembly according to the invention. [Figure 12F]12A-12F show cross sections of an embodiment of the set in the central part of the tongue during assembly according to the invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 shows an embodiment of a set during disassembly according to an embodiment of the invention. [Figure 14A] FIG. 14A shows an embodiment of a lifting element according to an embodiment of the invention. [Figure 14B] 14B-14D show an embodiment of a set during disassembly according to an embodiment of the invention. [Figure 14C] 14B-14D show an embodiment of a set during disassembly according to an embodiment of the invention. [Figure 14D] 14B-14D show an embodiment of a set during disassembly according to an embodiment of the invention. [Figure 15A] 15A-15B show an embodiment of a set during disassembly according to an embodiment of the invention. [Figure 15B] 15A-15B show an embodiment of a set during disassembly according to an embodiment of the invention. [Figure 16A] 16A-16B show an embodiment of a set during disassembly according to an embodiment of the invention. [Figure 16B] 16A-16B show an embodiment of a set during disassembly according to an embodiment of the invention. [Figure 17A] 17A-17B show cross sections of an embodiment of a set of panels according to the invention. [Figure 17B] 17A-17B show cross sections of an embodiment of a set of panels according to the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0060] DETAILED DESCRIPTION Specific embodiments of the disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, this invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. The terminology used in the detailed description of the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings is not intended to be limiting. In the drawings, like numbers refer to like elements.

[0061] 1A-1D show an embodiment of a flexible tongue 30 for a mechanical locking device for a first panel and a second panel. The flexible tongue 30 has an elongated shape having a length L. The flexible tongue includes a central portion 32 between a first edge 31 and a second edge 36 of the flexible tongue 30. The central portion 32 is configured to cooperate with the tongue groove 20 to lock the first and second panel edges of the first and second panels, respectively, in a first direction. The first edge portion 31 has a flexible portion 53 and a recess 52 at the first edge 84, and the flexible portion is configured to displace toward a bottom surface 54 of the recess 52 during assembly and disassembly of the first and second panels 1, 1′. The first edge 31 includes a curved surface 51 at a second edge 83 opposite the first edge, the axis of the curved surface 51 being essentially perpendicular to the top surface 85 of the first edge 31, and the curved surface 51 extending at least partially across the recess 52. For example, the second edge 83 may have an inflection point across the recess 52.

[0062] The first panel 1 and the second panel 1' may be essentially identical; for example, structurally and mechanically essentially identical.

[0063] The curved surface 51 may have a first length 57 in the length direction of the flexible tongue in the unlocked position, and may have a second length 57' in the length direction of the flexible tongue during disassembly, the second length 57' being greater than the first length 57, for example at least 10% greater, for example at least 40% greater, for example at least 100% greater.

[0064] The recess 52 may have a recess length 59 in the length direction of the flexible tongue. The first length 57 of the curved portion may extend over a portion of the recess length 59, for example, 0-50% of the recess length 59.

[0065] The second length 57' of the curved portion may span substantially the entire recess length 59, such as at least over 90% of the recess length 59 or at least over 95% of the recess length 59.

[0066] The curved surface 51 may be configured to be pushed towards the tongue groove 20 by the flexible portion 53 in the locked position.

[0067] The first edge portion 31 may include a guide surface 34 at the first edge 84 , which is configured to cooperate with the tongue groove so that the second edge 83 is displaced towards the insertion groove 40 .

[0068] The first edge portion 31 may include a protruding portion 87 adjacent the curved surface 51. The protruding portion may prevent or act against rotation of the first edge portion relative to the insertion groove during assembly and disassembly.

[0069] The flexible tongue 30 may be configured to bend in the longitudinal direction to provide a curved tongue portion having a curved outer edge that may be configured as a guide surface cooperating with the edge surface 25 and / or tongue groove 20 of the second panel 1′ such that when the second edge 83 is displaced towards the insertion groove 40, the central portion 32 is pushed towards the bottom surface 43 of the insertion groove 40, thereby unlocking the mechanical locking device.

[0070] The central portion 32 may have a flexible portion 53' and a recess 52' at a first edge 84', the flexible portion configured to displace toward the bottom surface 54 of the recess 52 during assembly and disassembly of the first and second panels 1, 1', and the first central portion 32 has an essentially linear surface 55 at a second edge 83' opposite the first edge, the second edge 83' configured to cooperate with the tongue groove 20 for locking the first and second edges in the first direction D1.

[0071] The second edge 83' of the central portion 32 may include a locking edge 35 configured to cooperate with the locking surface 21 of the tongue groove 20 to lock the first edge and the second edge in the first direction D1.

[0072] The second edge 83 ′ of the central portion 32 may include a locking recess 38 adjacent the locking edge 35 .

[0073] An embodiment of a set of panels according to the invention is shown in a locked position in cross section in Figures 2A-5B. The embodiment comprises a set of panels, such as a building panel, comprising a first panel 1 and a second panel 1'. Each panel may have a major surface 17, opposing parallel surfaces 19, a first edge 4a, an opposing second edge 4b, a third edge 5a adjacent to and optionally perpendicular to the first edge 4a, and a fourth edge 5b opposite the third edge 5a, as shown in Figure 6B.

[0074] The set includes a mechanical locking device configured to lock a first edge of the first panel to a second edge of the second panel at the seam J, and the locking device includes a flexible tongue 30 positioned in the insertion groove 40 at the first edge 4a of the first panel and in the tongue groove 20 at the second edge 4b ​​of the second panel 4b, the flexible tongue 30 having an elongated shape with its length direction parallel to the first edge 4a.

[0075] The flexible tongue has a central portion 32 between the first edge portion 31 and the second edge portion 36 of the flexible tongue 30, and the central portion 32 is configured to cooperate with the tongue groove 20 to lock the first and second edges in a first direction D1 perpendicular to the main surface 17 when the first panel 1 and the second panel 1' are in a locked position.

[0076] The first edge portion 31 and tongue groove 20 are configured such that, when in the locked position, a force P' is applied adjacent the first edge 4a and adjacent the third edge 5a of the first panel, and optionally another force P is applied adjacent the second edge 4b ​​and adjacent the third edge 5a of the second panel 1', such that the first edge portion 31 is pressed toward the bottom surface 43 of the insertion groove 40, which displaces the third edge 5a of the second panel 1' relative to the third edge 5a of the first panel 1, R, thereby enabling disassembly of the second panel 1' from the first panel 1, as shown in Figures 13 and 14B-14C.

[0077] The force P' and another force P may be applied in a direction opposite to the first direction D1.

[0078] The force P′ may be applied at the first edge 4 a of the first panel 1 adjacent the curved surface 51 .

[0079] The force P′ may be applied to the major surface 17 of the first panel 1 .

[0080] The insertion groove 40 may include a groove surface 41 and an opposite groove surface 42 , and a bottom surface 43 extending between the groove surface 41 and the opposite groove surface 42 .

[0081] The flexible tongue 30 may be configured in accordance with the flexible tongue shown and described in connection with Figures 1A-1D.

[0082] The tongue and groove 20 may include a locking surface 21 , an opposing tongue and groove surface 24 , and a bottom surface 23 extending between the locking surface 21 and the opposing tongue and groove surface 24 .

[0083] The tongue groove 20 may include a groove guide surface 22 that may be positioned at the opening of the tongue groove 20 adjacent the locking surface 21 .

[0084] The central portion 32 of the flexible tongue 30 may include a locking edge 35 configured to cooperate with the locking surface 21 of the tongue groove 20 to lock the first and second edges in the first direction D1.

[0085] The central portion 32 of the flexible tongue 30 may include a locking recess 38 adjacent to the locking edge 35. The locking recess 38 may increase the locking force between the locking edge 35 and the locking surface 21.

[0086] The second panel 1' may include an edge surface 25 adjacent to the guide surface 22. The edge surface 25 may extend in a direction essentially parallel to the first direction.

[0087] The locking device may comprise a first locking strip 6 provided at a first edge 4a or at an opposite second edge 4b ​​with a first locking element 8 which may be configured to cooperate with a first locking groove 14 at the other of the first or second edges 4a, 4b for locking in a second direction D2 perpendicular to the first direction D1.

[0088] The mechanical locking device may be configured such that when the second edge 83 of the first edge portion 31 is displaced towards the insertion groove 40, the flexible tongue 30 bends longitudinally, thereby resulting in the curved tongue portion having the curved outer edge shown in Figure 7 and in Figure 8A, which is an enlargement of a portion of the set shown in Figure 7. In Figures 7-8A, portions V1, V2 of the first panel 1 are made transparent to visualize the displacement and bending of the flexible tongue 30.

[0089] The bent outer edge may be configured as a guide surface which cooperates with the tongue groove 20, e.g. with the groove guide surface 22 and / or the locking surface 21, and / or with the edge surface 25 of the second panel 1', so that the central portion 32 is pressed towards the bottom surface 43 of the insertion groove 40, unlocking the mechanical locking device.

[0090] During displacement R of the third edge 5a of the second panel 1' relative to the third edge 5a of the first panel 1, the position of the flexible tongue of the bent outer edge moves along the first edge 4b. During the initial displacement, the bent outer edge may be adjacent to the first edge portion 31, and at the end of the displacement, the bent outer edge may be adjacent to the second edge portion 32. The mechanical locking device may be unlocked at the end of the displacement so that the first panel 1 can be disassembled from the second panel 1'.

[0091] FIG. 8B shows a set of four essentially identical panels 1, 1', 1'', 1''' in an assembled and locked position. The first edge 4a of the first panel 1 is locked to the second edge 4b ​​of the second panel 1'. The fourth edge 5b of the second panel 1' and the fourth edge 5b of the first panel 1 are locked to the third edge 5a of the adjacent panel 1'' in the adjacent row. The third edge 5a of the second panel 1' and the third edge 5a of the first panel 1 are locked to the fourth edge 5b of the adjacent panel 1''' in the adjacent new row. The fourth edge 5b of the adjacent panel 1''' in the adjacent new row may counter or prevent the displacement R of the third edge 5a of the second panel 1' relative to the third edge 5a of the first panel 1.

[0092] Figure 2A shows the embodiment in cross section at first edge portion 31, Figure 2B shows the embodiment in cross section at central portion 32, and Figure 2C shows the embodiment in cross section at second edge portion 36. The cross section at second edge portion 36 may be a mirror image of the cross section at first edge portion 31. Figures 4A and 4B show enlargements of portions of Figures 2A and 2B, respectively.

[0093] Figure 4A shows, and contrasts with Figure 9E, that this embodiment may include a tongue guide surface 34 at the first edge portion 31 of the flexible tongue that is configured to cooperate with the groove guide surface 22 of the tongue groove during disassembly. The tongue guide surface 34 may be located in a locked position with the groove guide surface 22, which may facilitate disassembly.

[0094] The guide surface 34 may be spaced apart from the outermost edge 93 of the flexible tongue at the first edge portion.

[0095] The outermost edge 93 of the flexible tongue at the first edge portion may be configured to cooperate with the groove guide surface during disassembly, contrast with FIG. 9E.

[0096] An outermost edge 93 of the flexible tongue at the first edge portion may be configured to cooperate with edge surface 25 during disassembly, contrast with FIG. 9F.

[0097] FIG. 4B shows that the embodiment may comprise a locking recess 38 in the central portion 32 facing the locking surface 21 and adjacent to the locking edge 35 .

[0098] The locking edge 35 may be adjacent the outermost edge 92 of the flexible tongue in the central portion 32 .

[0099] The outermost edge 92 of the flexible tongue in the central portion may be configured to cooperate with the groove guide surface 22 during disassembly, contrast with FIG. 10E.

[0100] An outermost edge 92 of the flexible tongue in the central portion 32 may be configured to cooperate with the edge surface 25 during disassembly, contrast with FIG. 10F.

[0101] Figures 9A-9C show cross sections of the first edge portion 31 shown in Figure 2A during disassembly in three successive steps. Figures 9D-9F show enlargements of the portion in Figures 9A-9C, respectively, during the same three successive steps.

[0102] Figures 10A-10C show cross sections of central portion 32 shown in Figure 2B during disassembly in three successive steps, and Figures 10D-10F show enlargements of the portions of Figures 10A-10C, respectively, during the same three successive steps.

[0103] Figure 3A shows an embodiment in cross section at first edge portion 31, Figure 3B shows an embodiment in cross section at central portion 32, and Figure 3C shows an embodiment in cross section at second edge portion 36. The cross section of second edge portion 36 may be a mirror image of the cross section of first edge portion 31. Figures 5A and 5B show enlarged portions of Figures 2A and 2B, respectively.

[0104] 5A shows that the embodiment may comprise a tongue guide surface 34 of the flexible tongue at the first edge portion 31, which is configured to cooperate with the groove guide surface 22 of the tongue groove during disassembly. The guide surface 34 may be located adjacent to the locking surface 21 and the groove guide surface 22 in the locked position.

[0105] The embodiment may comprise an outer tongue guide surface 91 at the first edge portion 31, which is configured to cooperate with the tongue groove guide surface 22 during disassembly, compare to FIG. 11E.

[0106] The outer tongue guide surface 91 may be located between the outermost edge 93 of the first edge portion and the tongue guide surface 34 .

[0107] An outermost edge 93 of the flexible tongue at the first edge portion may be configured to cooperate with edge surface 25 during disassembly, contrast with FIG. 11F.

[0108] 5B shows that the embodiment may comprise a locking recess 38 in the central portion 32 facing the locking surface 21 and adjacent to the locking edge 35. The embodiment comprises another locking recess 38' on the opposite side of the flexible tongue. The embodiment may have a symmetrical cross-section, which may have the advantage that the flexible tongue can be inserted into the insertion groove in two different orientations and have the same function in both orientations.

[0109] The locking recess 38 may include a first recess surface 96 adjacent the locking edge 35 and a second opposing recess surface 98, the first recess surface 96 extending at an acute angle 94 relative to a centerline 96 of the flexible tongue 30. This may have the effect of increasing locking strength.

[0110] The alternative locking recess 38 ′ may include a first recess surface 96 ′ adjacent the locking edge 35 and a second opposing recess surface 98 ′, the first recess surface 96 ′ extending at an acute angle 95 relative to a centerline 96 of the flexible tongue 30 .

[0111] The central portion 32 may include a tongue guide surface 39 configured to cooperate with the tongue-and-groove groove guide surface 22 during disassembly (compare FIG. 12E). The tongue guide surface 39 may be disposed between the locking edge 35 and the outermost edge 92 of the central portion 32.

[0112] Outermost edge 92 of central portion 32 may be configured to cooperate with edge surface 25 during disassembly, contrast FIG. 12F.

[0113] Figures 11A-11C show cross sections at first edge portion 31 shown in Figure 3A during disassembly in three successive steps, and Figures 11D-11F show enlargements of the portions of Figures 11A-11C, respectively, during the same three successive steps.

[0114] Figures 12A-12C show cross sections of central portion 32 shown in Figure 3B during disassembly in three successive steps, and Figures 12D-12F show enlargements of the portion of Figures 12A-12C, respectively, during the same three successive steps.

[0115] 6A-6B show that the mechanical locking device may have a second locking strip 16 provided at the third or fourth edge 5a, 5b with a second locking element 18, which may be configured to cooperate with a second locking groove 24 at the other of the third or fourth edge 5a, 5b of the adjacent third panel 1''' for locking in a third direction D3 perpendicular to the first direction D1.

[0116] The mechanical locking devices at the third and fourth edges may be configured to be assembled by an angular movement A, whereby the tongue 13 at the third or fourth edge 5a, 5b is placed into a tongue-and-groove 2 (not shown in Figures 6A-6B, an embodiment of the tongue-and-groove is shown in Figure 14B) at the other of the third or fourth edge 5a, 5b of another panel 1'' in the row already being installed.

[0117] An embodiment of a method for disassembly of a set of panels, such as building panels, is shown in Figures 13 and 14B-D. The set is shown in three-dimensional views during disassembly in Figures 13 and 14C and in a side view in Figure 14, with Figure 14D showing the set after disassembly.

[0118] The method includes a first panel and a second panel, each having a major surface 17, 17', a first edge, an opposing second edge, a third edge 5a adjacent to and optionally perpendicular to the first edge 4a, and a fourth edge 5b opposite the third edge 5a. The set includes a mechanical locking device configured to lock the first edge of the first panel to the second edge of the second panel at the seam J, the locking device including a flexible tongue 30 disposed in an insertion groove 40 in the first edge 4a of the first panel and in a tongue groove 20 in the second edge 4b ​​of the second panel. The flexible tongue 30 has an elongated shape, with its length parallel to the first edge 4a. The flexible tongue includes a central portion 32 between a first edge portion 31 and a second edge portion 36 of the flexible tongue 30. The central portion 32 is configured to cooperate with the tongue groove 20 for locking the first and second edges of the first and second panels 1, 1' in a locked position in a first direction D1 perpendicular to the main faces, in a manner that: applying a force P' adjacent the first edge 4a and adjacent the third edge 5a of the first panel; thereby displacing the first edge portion 31 towards the bottom surface 43 of the insertion groove 40; and disassembling the second panel 1′ from the first panel 1 by displacing R the third edge 5a of the second panel 1′ relative to the third edge 5a of the first panel 1; Includes.

[0119] The method may further include applying another force P adjacent the second edge 4b ​​and adjacent the third edge 5a of the second panel 1'.

[0120] The method may include further displacing R the third edge 5a of the second panel 1' relative to the third edge 5a of the first panel 1, thereby displacing the central portion 32 towards the bottom surface 43 of the insertion groove 40 such that the mechanical locking device is unlocked.

[0121] The method may include applying force P' and another force P simultaneously, or may include applying force P' and another force P alternately.

[0122] The method may include applying a force P' and another force P two or more times.

[0123] The first and second panels may be essentially identical.

[0124] The method may include applying a force P' and another force P in a direction opposite the first direction D1.

[0125] The method may include applying a force P′ at a distance 77 from the seam J and at a distance 78 from the upper and outermost portion of the third edge 5 b of the first panel 1 .

[0126] Its distance 77 from the seam J may be in the range of about 5 to about 15 cm, or about 10 cm. Its distance 78 from the upper and outermost portion of the third edge 5b of the first panel 1 may be in the range of about 0 cm to about 5 cm, or about 0.5 cm to about 2 cm, or about 1 cm.

[0127] The method may include applying another force P at a distance 75 from the seam J and at a distance 76 from the upper, outermost portion of the third edge 5 b of the second panel 1 .

[0128] The distance 75 from the seam J may be in the range of about 5 to about 15 cm, or about 10 cm. The distance 76 from the upper and outermost portion of the third edge 5b of the first panel 1 may be in the range of about 0 cm to about 5 cm, or about 0.5 cm to about 2 cm, or about 1 cm.

[0129] The method may include bending a first panel 1 about an axis 74 that is parallel to the outermost portion of the first edge 4b ​​of the first panel when a force P' is applied, and / or bending a second panel 1' about an axis 72 that is parallel to the outermost portion of the first edge 4b ​​of the second panel when another force P is applied.

[0130] Bending of the first panel may cause a relative displacement of the outermost portion of the first edge 4b ​​with respect to the major surface 17, which may be in the range of about 0.1 mm to about 0.5 mm, or about 0.2 mm.

[0131] Bending of the second panel 1' may cause a relative displacement of the outermost portion of the first edge 4b ​​with respect to the major surface 17', which is in the range of about 0.1 mm to about 0.5 mm, or about 0.2 mm.

[0132] The method may include using a raising element 60 to raise the third edge 5a of the second panel 1' or the third edge 5a of the first panel 1 (not shown) prior to applying force P' and / or force P. The raising element may facilitate disassembly if the panels are installed on an even surface. The raising element may be redundant if the panels are assembled on an uneven surface, such as on a framework.

[0133] An embodiment of a raising element 60 is shown in Figure 14A. The raising element may comprise a wedge-shaped portion 63.

[0134] The raising element 60 may comprise an inclined surface 62. The inclination of the inclined surface is adapted to the desired angle of the panel relative to the portion near the surface at which the force P' and / or the further force P are applied.

[0135] The lifting element 60 may comprise a protruding positioning element 61. The lifting element 60 is in position relative to the third edge 5a when the positioning element cooperates with the third edge 5a.

[0136] 15A-16B show that the method may include bending the first panel 1 about an axis 71 that is parallel to the outermost portion of the third edge 5b of the second panel 1′ when the third edge 5a of the second panel 1′ is displaced R relative to the third edge 5a of the first panel 1.

[0137] Figure 17A shows an embodiment of the set, and Figure 17B shows an enlargement of a portion of Figure 17A. The set includes a recess 102 at the upper edge of the first edge of the first panel. The recess 102 is located above the insertion groove 40. The second edge of the second panel 1' includes a protruding element 101 at the upper edge that is configured to cooperate with the recess. The cooperation between the recess 102 and the protruding element 101 may prevent moisture and / or liquid from entering the mechanical locking device.

[0138] The recess may have a protruding lower recess surface 104 and an upper recess surface 106. The protruding element 101 may have an upper element surface 105 and a lower element surface 103. The upper recess surface 106 may be configured to cooperate with the upper element surface 105. The lower recess surface 104 may be configured to cooperate with the lower element surface 103.

[0139] Further embodiments of the invention are described below: 1. A set of panels, such as building panels, comprising a first panel 1 and a second panel 1′, each of the first panel 1 and the second panel 1′ having a major surface 17, 17′, a first edge 4a, an opposite second edge 4b, a third edge 5a adjacent to and optionally perpendicular to the first edge 4a, and a fourth edge 5b opposite the third edge 5a, the set comprising a mechanical locking device configured to lock the first edge of the first panel to the second edge of the second panel at a seam J, the locking device comprising a flexible tongue 30, the flexible tongue 30 being disposed in an insertion groove 40 at the first edge 4a of the first panel and in a tongue groove 20 at the second edge 4b ​​of the second panel 4b, the flexible tongue 30 having an elongated shape, the length direction being parallel to the first edge 4a, the flexible tongue being configured to be fixed to a first edge portion 31 of the flexible tongue 30. and a second edge portion 36, the central portion 32 being configured to cooperate with the tongue groove 20 for locking the first and second edges in a first direction D1 perpendicular to the main faces in a locked position of the first panel 1 and the second panel 1′, the first edge portion 31 and the tongue groove 20 being configured such that when in the locked position a force P′ is applied adjacent the first edge 4 a and the third edge 5 a of the first panel and, optionally, another force P is applied adjacent the second edge 4 b and the third edge 5 a of the second panel 1′, the first edge portion 31 being pressed towards a bottom surface 43 of the insertion groove 40, which displaces the third edge 5 a of the second panel 1′ relative to the third edge 5 a of the first panel 1, R, thereby enabling disassembly of the second panel 1′ from the first panel 1.

[0140] 2. The set described in embodiment 1, wherein the mechanical lock is configured such that when the third edge 5a of the second panel 1' is displaced R relative to the third edge 5a of the first panel 1, the central portion 32 is pushed toward the bottom surface 43 of the insertion groove 40 so that the mechanical locking device is unlocked.

[0141] 3. The set of embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the first panel and the second panel are essentially identical.

[0142] 4. The set of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the force P' and the further force P are applied in a direction opposite to the first direction D1.

[0143] 5. The set of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the force P' is applied at a distance 77 from the seam J and at a distance 78 from the upper and outermost portion of the third edge 5b of the first panel 1.

[0144] 6. The set of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the other force P is applied at a distance 75 from the seam J and at a distance 76 from the upper and outermost portion of the third edge 5b of the second panel 1.

[0145] 7. The set of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first panel 1 is configured to bend about an axis 74 that is parallel to the outermost portion of the first edge 4b ​​of the first panel when the force P' is applied, and / or the second panel 1' is configured to bend about an axis 72 that is parallel to the outermost portion of the first edge 4b ​​of the second panel when the other force P is applied.

[0146] 8. A set according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first edge portion 31 comprises a flexible portion 53 and a recess 52 at a first edge 84, the flexible portion being configured to displace toward a bottom surface 54 of the recess 52 during assembly and disassembly of the first panel 1 and the second panel 1', the first edge portion 31 comprising a curved surface 51 at a second edge 83 opposite the first edge, the axis of the curved surface 51 being essentially perpendicular to the top surface 85 of the first edge portion 31, and the curved surface 51 extending at least partially across the recess 52.

[0147] 9. The set described in embodiment 8, wherein the curved surface 51 has a first length 57 in the length direction of the flexible tongue in the unlocked position, and has a second length 57' in the length direction of the flexible tongue when the force P' and the other force P are applied, and the second length 57' is greater than the first length 57.

[0148] 10. A set according to embodiment 8 or 9, wherein the curved surface 51 in the locked position is configured to be pushed towards the tongue groove 20 by the flexible portion 53.

[0149] 11. The set according to any one of embodiments 8 to 10, wherein the first edge portion 31 has a protruding portion 87 adjacent to the curved surface 51.

[0150] 12. A set according to any one of the preceding embodiments 8 to 11, wherein the first edge portion 31 has a guide surface 34 at the first edge 84, and the guide surface 34 is configured to cooperate with the tongue groove when the force P' and the other force P are applied so as to displace the second edge 83 of the first edge portion 31 towards the insertion groove 40.

[0151] 13. The set described in embodiment 12, wherein the flexible tongue 30 is configured to bend in the longitudinal direction when the second edge is displaced toward the insertion groove 40 to obtain a curved tongue portion having a curved outer edge that can be configured as a guide surface cooperating with the groove of the tongue 20 and / or the edge surface 25 of the second panel so that the central portion 32 is pressed toward the bottom surface 43 of the insertion groove 40 and the mechanical locking device is unlocked.

[0152] 14. A set according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the central portion 32 has a flexible portion 53' and a recess 52' at a first edge 84', the flexible portion being configured to displace towards the bottom surface 54 of the recess 52 during assembly and disassembly of the first panel and the second panel 1, 1', and the first central portion 32 has an essentially linear surface 55 at a second edge 83' opposite the first edge, the second edge 83' being configured to cooperate with the tongue groove 20 for locking the first edge and the second edge in the first direction D1.

[0153] 15. The set described in embodiment 14, wherein the second edge 83' of the central portion 32 has a locking edge 35, and the locking edge 35 is configured to cooperate with the locking surface 21 of the tongue groove 20 to lock the first edge and the second edge in the first direction D1.

[0154] 16. The set described in embodiment 15, wherein the second edge 83' of the central portion 32 has a locking recess 38 adjacent to the locking edge 35.

[0155] 17. The set described in embodiment 16, wherein the locking recess 38 has a first recessed surface 96 adjacent to the locking edge 35 and a second recessed surface 98, and the first recessed surface 96 extends at an acute angle 94 relative to the center line 96 of the flexible tongue 30.

[0156] 18. The set of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first panel 1 is configured to bend about an axis 71 that is parallel to an outermost portion of the third edge 5b of the second panel 1′ when the third edge 5a of the second panel 1′ is displaced R relative to the third edge 5a of the first panel 1.

[0157] 19. The set of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the thickness of the panel is in the range of about 3 mm to about 15 mm, preferably in the range of about 4 mm to about 8 mm.

[0158] 20. A set according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the mechanical locking device comprises a first locking strip 6 provided with a first locking element 8 at the first edge 4a or the opposite second edge 4b, the first locking element 8 being configured to cooperate with a first locking groove 14 at the other of the first edge 4a or the second edge 4b, for locking in a second direction D2 perpendicular to the first direction D1.

[0159] 21. A set according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the mechanical locking device comprises a second locking strip 16 provided with a second locking element 18 at the third edge 5a or the fourth edge 5b, the second locking element 18 being configured to cooperate with a second locking groove 24 at the other of the third edge 5a or the fourth edge 5b of an adjacent third panel 1'' for locking in a third direction D3 perpendicular to the first direction D1.

[0160] 22. The set described in embodiment 21, wherein the mechanical locking devices at the third edge and the fourth edge are configured for assembly and / or disassembly by angular movement, and the tongue 13 at the third edge 5a or the fourth edge 5b is located in the tongue groove 2 at the other of the third edge 5a or the fourth edge 5b.

[0161] 23. A method for disassembling a set of panels, such as building panels, the panels comprising a first panel 1 and a second panel 1', each of the first panel 1 and the second panel 1' having a major surface 17, 17', a first edge 4a, an opposite second edge 4b, a third edge 5a adjacent to and optionally perpendicular to the first edge 4a, and a fourth edge 5b opposite the third edge 5a, the set comprising a mechanical locking device configured to lock the first edge of the first panel to the second edge of the second panel at a seam J, the locking device comprising a flexible tongue 30, the flexible tongue a portion 30 positioned in an insertion groove 40 in the first edge 4 a of the first panel and a tongue groove 20 in the second edge 4 b of the second panel 4 b, the flexible tongue 30 having an elongated shape and the length direction being parallel to the first edge 4 a, the flexible tongue including a central portion 32 between a first edge portion 31 and a second edge portion 36 of the flexible tongue 30, the central portion 32 being configured to cooperate with the tongue groove 20 for locking the first edge and the second edge in a first direction D1 perpendicular to the main faces in a locked position of the first panel 1 and the second panel 1′, the method comprising: applying a force P' adjacent the first edge 4a and adjacent the third edge 5a of the first panel; optionally applying another force P adjacent the second edge 4b ​​and adjacent the third edge 5a of the second panel 1′; thereby displacing the first edge portion 31 toward the bottom surface 43 of the insertion groove 40; and disassembling the second panel 1′ from the first panel 1 by displacing R the third edge 5a of the second panel 1′ relative to the third edge 5a of the first panel 1; Includes.

[0162] 24. The method of embodiment 23, further comprising displacing R the third edge 5a of the second panel 1' relative to the third edge 5a of the first panel 1, thereby displacing the central portion 32 toward the bottom surface 43 of the insertion groove 40 so that the mechanical locking device is unlocked.

[0163] 25. The method of embodiment 23 or 24, comprising applying the force P' and the further force P simultaneously or applying the force P' and the further force P alternately.

[0164] 26. The method of any one of embodiments 23-25, comprising applying the force P' and the further force P two or more times.

[0165] 27. The method of any one of embodiments 23-26, wherein the first panel and the second panel are essentially identical.

[0166] 28. The method according to any one of embodiments 23 to 27, wherein the force P' and the further force P are applied in a direction opposite to the first direction D1.

[0167] 29. A method according to any one of embodiments 23 to 28, wherein the force P' is applied at a distance 77 from the seam J and at a distance 78 from the upper and outermost portion of the third edge 5b of the first panel 1.

[0168] 30. A method according to any one of embodiments 23 to 29, wherein the force P' is applied at a distance 75 from the seam J and at a distance 76 from the upper and outermost portion of the third edge 5b of the second panel 1.

[0169] 31. A method according to any one of embodiments 23 to 30, wherein the first panel 1 is configured to bend around an axis 74 that is parallel to the outermost portion of the first edge 4b ​​of the first panel when the force P' is applied, and / or the second panel 1' is configured to bend around an axis 72 that is parallel to the outermost portion of the first edge 4b ​​of the second panel when the force P' is applied.

[0170] 32. A method according to any one of embodiments 23 to 31, wherein the first panel 1 is configured to bend around an axis 71 that is parallel to the outermost portion of the third edge 5b of the second panel 1' when the third edge 5a of the second panel 1' is displaced R relative to the third edge 5a of the first panel 1.

[0171] While the inventive concepts have been described and illustrated in detail, it is to be clearly understood that the same is intended by way of illustration and example only and not as a limitation, the spirit and scope of the inventive concepts being limited only by the terms of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A set of panels, comprising a first panel (1) and a second panel (1'), each of the first panel (1) and the second panel (1') having a major surface (17, 17'), a first edge (4a), an opposite second edge (4b), a third edge (5a) adjacent to and optionally perpendicular to the first edge (4a), and a fourth edge (5b) opposite the third edge (5a), the set comprising a mechanical locking device configured to lock the first edge of the first panel to the second edge of the second panel at a joint (J), the locking device being flexible. The flexible tongue (30) is positioned in the insertion groove (40) at the first edge (4a) of the first panel and in the tongue groove (20) at the second edge (4b) of the second panel (4b), the flexible tongue (30) has an elongated shape, the length direction is parallel to the first edge (4a), and the flexible tongue (30) includes a central portion (32) between the first edge portion (31) and the second edge portion (36) of the flexible tongue (30), the central portion (32) being perpendicular to the main surface when the first panel and the second panel (1, 1') are in a locked position. In a perpendicular first direction (D1), the first edge portion (31) and the tongue groove (20) are configured to cooperate with each other for locking the first edge and the second edge, and the first edge portion (31) and the tongue groove (20) cooperate with each other so that, when in the locked position, a force (P') is applied at the first edge (4a) and the third edge (5a) of the first panel and another force (P) is applied at the second edge (4b) and the third edge (5a) of the second panel (1'), and the first edge portion (31) is moved to an inward position toward the bottom surface (43) of the insertion groove (40). and the inner position of the first edge portion (31) allows for the separation of the second panel (1') from the first panel (1) by displacing (R) the third edge (5a) of the second panel (1') relative to the third edge (5a) of the first panel (1), the force (P') and the further force (P) being applied in a direction opposite to the first direction (D1), the first panel (1) being configured to bend about an axis (74) that is parallel to the outermost part of the first edge of the first panel when the force (P') is applied; and / orthe second panel (1') is configured to bend about an axis (72) parallel to an outermost portion of the second edge (4b) of the second panel when the further force (P) is applied, and the tongue groove (20) comprises a groove guide surface (22) disposed at an opening of the tongue groove (20) adjacent to a locking surface (21); a tongue guide surface (34) on the first edge portion (31) of the flexible tongue is configured to cooperate with the groove guide surface (22) of the tongue groove during disassembly; A set characterized by:

2. 2. The set of claim 1, wherein the mechanical lock is configured such that when the third edge (5 a) of the second panel (1′) is displaced (R) relative to the third edge (5 a) of the first panel (1), the central portion (32) is pressed towards the bottom surface (43) of the insertion groove (40) so that the mechanical locking device is unlocked.

3. The set of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first panel and the second panel are essentially identical.

4. The set according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the force (P') is applied at a distance (77) from the seam (J) and at a distance (78) from the upper and outermost portion of the third edge (5a) of the first panel (1).

5. The set according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the further force (P) is applied at a distance (75) from the seam (J) and at a distance (76) from the upper and outermost portion of the third edge (5a) of the second panel (1).

6. The set according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first edge portion (31) comprises a flexible portion (53) and a recess (52) at a first edge (84), the flexible portion being configured to be displaced towards a bottom surface (54) of the recess (52) during assembly and disassembly of the first panel and the second panel (1, 1'), and the first edge portion (31) comprises a curved surface (51) at a second edge (83) opposite the first edge (84), the axis of the curved surface (51) being essentially perpendicular to a top surface (85) of the first edge portion (31), and the curved surface (51) extending at least partially across the recess (52).

7. A set as described in claim 6, wherein the portion of the second edge (83) forming the curved surface (51) has a first length (57) in the longitudinal direction of the flexible tongue in the unlocked position, and when the force (P') and the other force (P) are applied, has a second length (57') in the longitudinal direction of the flexible tongue, the second length (57') being greater than the first length (57).

8. 8. A set according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the curved surface (51) in the locked position is configured to be pressed towards the tongue groove (20) by the flexible portion (53).

9. The set according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the first edge portion (31) comprises a protruding portion (87) adjacent to the curved surface (51).

10. The set according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the first edge portion (31) comprises a guide surface (34) at the second edge, the guide surface (34) being configured to cooperate with the tongue groove (20) when the force (P') and the further force (P) are applied so as to displace the second edge (83) towards the insertion groove (40).

11. 11. The set according to claim 10, wherein the flexible tongue (30) is configured to bend in the longitudinal direction when the second edge (83) is displaced towards the insertion groove (40) to obtain a curved tongue portion having a curved outer edge that can be configured as a guide surface cooperating with the tongue groove (20) and / or an edge surface (25) of the second panel, so that the central portion (32) is pressed towards the bottom surface (43) of the insertion groove (40) and the mechanical locking device is unlocked.

12. The set according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the central portion (32) comprises a flexible portion (53') and a recess (52') at a first edge (84'), the flexible portion being configured to be displaced towards a bottom surface of the recess (52') during assembly and disassembly of the first panel and the second panel (1, 1'), and the central portion (32) comprises an essentially straight surface (55) at a second edge (83') opposite the first edge, the second edge (83') being configured to cooperate with the tongue-and-groove (20) for locking the first and second edges in the first direction (D1).

13. 13. The set according to claim 12, wherein the second edge (83′) of the central portion (32) comprises a locking edge (35), which is configured to cooperate with a locking surface (21) of the tongue groove (20) for the locking of the first edge and the second edge in the first direction (D1).

14. 14. The set according to claim 13, wherein the second edge (83') of the central portion (32) comprises a locking recess (38) adjacent the locking edge (35).

15. 15. The set of claim 14, wherein the locking recess (38) comprises a first recess surface (96) adjacent the locking edge (35) and a second recess surface (98), the first recess surface (96) extending at an acute angle (94) relative to a centerline (96) of the flexible tongue (30).

Images