A decorative panel comprising an identification pattern and a method for manufacturing a panel comprising an identification pattern

Abstract

A decorative panel (1-12-15) having at least an upper visible surface (2-13-16), said visible surface (2-13-16) comprising a decorative pattern and an identification pattern, preferably said identification pattern being non-visible to the human eye and being detectable by a detecting device, wherein said identification pattern is formed by a plurality of pattern elements (11-11A-11B-14-17A-17B-18) distributed on at least a portion of said visible surface (2-13-16).

Description

[0001] A decorative panel comprising an identification pattern and a method for manufacturing a panel comprising an identification pattern.

[0002] The present invention relates to decorative panels, for example floor, wall or ceiling panels, of the kind having at least one surface that comprises a decorative pattern. More particularly the invention concerns decorative panels wherein the decorative pattern comprises an identification pattern in the form of a concealed code, namely a code that, once read can return predetermined information, and that is normally not visible to the human eye. It is noted that, in the context of the application, decorative panels can encompass any kind of panel or board shaped product to be used as a decorative surface element like, for example: laminate panels, for example DPL, HPL, resilient panels, for example LVT, WPC or SPC, ceramic slabs or tiles, engineered stone slabs.

[0003] WO 2019 / 072733 Al discloses an inkjet printing method for manufacturing decorative laminate panels ordered by a customer. The method includes the steps of i) providing an inkjet printing device with a print job including one or more decorative patterns and an identification code assigned to the one or more decorative patterns; and ii) printing the one or more decorative patterns with one or more inkjet inks and applying the identification code on a substrate web. The substrate web is a paper substrate. The identification code can be concealed in one or more decorative patterns with steganographic techniques.

[0004] A concealed code, or identification pattern, can be included into the decorative pattern by means of a process wherein an image file of the decorative pattern is modified to include the concealed code. This operation can be performed by means of a steganographic technique that modifies the decorative pattern so that the image is modified to include the concealed code. When the concealed code is to be included in a decorative pattern being rather intricate like a wood imitating pattern, it is a challenge to obtain a code that is sufficiently readable without affecting the aesthetics of the decorative pattern. A similar challenge is present also in the case of very light colored and plain decorative patterns, like for example decorative patterns imitating natural stones or marble.

[0005] The present invention aims in the first place to provide an alternative decorative panel and an alternative method for manufacturing a decorative panel, which, in accordance with several of its preferred embodiments, is directed to solve one or more of the problems arising in the state of the art.

[0006] Thereto, the present invention, according to its first independent aspect relates to a decorative panel having at least an upper visible surface, said visible surface comprising a decorative pattern and an identification pattern (or concealed code), preferably said identification pattern being non-visible to the human eye and being detectable by a detecting device, wherein said identification pattern is formed by a plurality of pattern elements distributed on at least a portion of said visible surface, wherein the identification pattern comprises one or more of the following characteristics: a) the identification pattern comprises features oriented substantially parallel to a general orientation direction of the decorative pattern; b) the identification pattern comprises features oriented along two substantially transversal directions; c) the identification pattern is distributed, preferably repeated, on multiple portions of said visible surface, wherein the identification pattern shows varying features across said multiple portions; d) said visible surface comprises multiple surface portions, wherein the decorative pattern shows a first color in a first of said surface portions or in a first group of said surface portions and a second color in a second of said surface portions or in a second group of said surface portions, wherein said identification pattern is present only in one of the following: said first surface portion, said first group of said surface portions, said second surface portion, and said second group of said surface portions.

[0007] In this way, the identification pattern can be confused by the human eye with characteristics of the decorative pattern, thereby resulting in a better hidden concealed code. It is clear that, according to the invention, preferably the identification pattern is formed partially, and preferably entirely, within the decorative pattern. Thus, there preferably is an overlap between the decorative pattern and the identification pattern.

[0008] Preferably, in characteristics a) and b), said features can comprise the shape of the pattern elements. Preferably in characteristic a), said pattern elements can be lines oriented substantially parallel to the general orientation direction of the decorative pattern. Alternatively, said pattern elements may comprise, possibly in combination with lines, rectangles and / or ellipses with their longest dimension oriented substantially parallel to the general orientation direction of the decorative pattern. In a first preferred embodiment, said decorative pattern can be a wood pattern comprising wood nerves having a nerve direction, preferably said nerve direction being the longitudinal direction of the decorative panel, and said general orientation direction of the decorative pattern can correspond to the nerve direction. In this way, the identification code can be better hidden into the decorative pattern, as it can be confused with elements of the decorative pattern. Especially when said pattern elements comprise a mixture of shapes, such as lines and / or rectangles and / or ellipses, the identification pattern may not be perceivable or may appear to be random noise instead of being related to an identification code, such that the identification pattern may be efficiently concealed.

[0009] In characteristic b) said pattern elements can be formed by at least two intersecting lines, for example said pattern elements being V-shaped, L-shaped, X-shaped, and / or T- shaped. In a second preferred embodiment, the decorative pattern can be a stone or cement pattern that can comprise stone veins, flakes and / or grains being randomly distributed over the visible surface. In this context, the expression “randomly” distributed should be interpreted in the sense that the decorative pattern does not comprise a general orientation direction, and that the features of the decorative pattern, for example the veins, are distributed and oriented in many directions, apparently in a random manner. In this way, the pattern elements, not being directed in a single direction can be confused with features of the decorative pattern and thus resulting imperceptible to the human eye but recognizable by a dedicated reader. Especially when said pattern elements comprise a mixture of V-shaped, L-shaped, X-shaped and / or T-shaped elements, the identification pattern may not be perceivable or may appear to be random noise instead of being related to an identification code, such that the identification pattern may be efficiently concealed.

[0010] It is noted that the combination of the characteristics a) and b) forms a preferred embodiment, since the combination of pattern elements having an orientation substantially parallel to the general orientation direction of the decorative pattern, as well as pattern elements comprising a mixture of V-shaped, L-shaped, X-shaped and / or T- shaped elements, may provide an excellent concealing of the identification pattern, especially in the case of complex decorative patterns such as for example wood patterns and / or stone patterns.

[0011] In characteristic c) said features of the identification pattern can comprise shape, dimension, color intensity and / or distribution density of said pattern elements. It is preferred that the identification pattern is repeated on said multiple portions of said visible surface since this provides redundancy, such that even upon wear and / or further dividing of the decorative panel, the identification code may be read out and the relevant information may still be retrievable.

[0012] It is noted that in characteristic c), the wording “the identification pattern shows varying features across said multiple portions” is intended to mean that the multiple portions comprising the identification pattern are different from one another, for example because the pattern elements used in the multiple portions have different shapes, dimensions, color intensities, color lightness and / or distribution densities.

[0013] Preferably, the variation of said features of the identification code coincides with a variation of features of the decorative pattern in said multiple portions. For example, where the decorative pattern is a wood pattern comprising wood grains, said feature may be varied based on the distance between adjacent wood grains. Preferably, the pattern elements are more closely positioned, i.e. have a higher distribution density, and / or are smaller in dimension, in portions of the decorative pattern where the wood grains are closely spaced together. Most preferably, said variation of features of the decorative pattern can comprise a color variation. For example, said decorative pattern can comprise at least a first color in one or more of said multiple portions, and can comprise at least a second color in one or more of said multiple portions. In a third preferred embodiment, the decorative pattern can be a stone or marble pattern comprising a first color and comprising veins, grains and / or flakes having a second color being different from the first color. Preferably said first color is lighter than the second color or the second color is lighter than the first color, and wherein said pattern elements can show a smaller dimension and / or a lower distribution density and / or a lower color intensity and / or a higher color lightness in said portions having the lighter color. In this way, the identification pattern can be made in such a way that it can be less visible to the human eye in those areas of the visible surface where it can have more impact on the appearance of the decorative pattern, like the lighter, preferably white areas, whereas it can be made more intense and thus more readable in those areas of the decorative pattern where its impact on the appearance of the decorative pattern itself can be more limited, like the darker areas. Preferably said first color is darker than the second color or the second color is darker than the first color, and wherein said pattern elements can show a larger dimension and / or a higher distribution density and / or a higher color intensity and / or a lower color lightness in said portions having the darker color. It is noted that the same principle also applies to other types of decorative patterns, such as for example wood patterns having darker and lighter portions.

[0014] In this application, a “lighter” color preferably refers to a color having a higher lightness value L* - as expressed in the CIELAB color space - than another color. A “darker” color preferably refers to a color having a lower lightness value L* - as expressed in the CIELAB color space - than another color. Said lightness value L*, as well as other measures of the CIELAB color space such as a* and b*, may be measured using a spectrophotometer. In this application, a higher color intensity preferably refers to a color having a higher chroma value C* - as determined in the CIELAB color space (derived from a* and b*) - than another color. A lower color intensity preferably refers to a color having a lower chroma value C* - as determined in the CIELAB color space (derived from a* and b*) - than another color.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment, the pattern elements of the identification pattern are of the same color (e.g. black) for different portions of the decorative pattern comprising the identification pattern, wherein the pattern elements of the identification pattern are of a different color lightness for different portions of the decorative pattern comprising the identification pattern. This may allow for a better blend-in of the identification pattern in the decorative pattern. Preferably, pattern elements have a higher color lightness in portions of the decorative pattern having a higher color lightness and / or pattern elements have a lower color lightness in portions of the decorative pattern having a lower color lightness. This may allow for an excellent blend-in, with little to no change to the visual perception of the decorative pattern.

[0016] Preferably, said first color and said second color in characteristic c) or d) can show a color difference AE of at least 10. For example, in characteristic d) said first or said second color is white or black. More preferably, in characteristic d) the decorative pattern is a marble pattern comprising a first color, for example white or black, and veins having a second color, for example respectively black or white. Preferably, said color difference AE may be determined in a color space such as for example the CIELAB color space, wherein the colors may be determined with a spectrophotometer. In accordance with a fourth preferred embodiment of the invention, the identification pattern is not present in surface portions corresponding to white color in the decorative pattern and / or the identification pattern is present, preferably only, in surface portions having a color different from white. Alternatively, or in combination therewith, the identification pattern is not present in surface portions corresponding to black color in the decorative pattern and / or the identification pattern is present, preferably only, in surface portions having a color different from black. In this way, the impact of the identification pattern on the visual appearance of the final decorative panel can be limited by being present only in those portions of the decorative pattern that can be less affected by the identification pattern itself. In this context, black or a black color preferably relates to a lightness value L* - as expressed in the CIELAB color space - in the range of 0 to 10, preferably 0 to 5, more preferably 0 to 2. White or a white color preferably relates to a lightness value L* - as expressed in the CIELAB color space - in the range of 90 to 100, preferably 95 to 100, more preferably 98 to 100.

[0017] In a first particular embodiment, the identification pattern comprises the characteristics a), b) and c). For example, in the case where the decorative pattern resembles a wood pattern having wood nerves and wood knots, the identification pattern may be distributed, preferably repeated, on multiple portions of the visible surface. In particular, a first portion comprises only wood nerves and a second portion comprises one or more wood knots as well as wood nerves, wherein the wood nerves have a direction coinciding with the general orientation direction. Preferably, the identification pattern in this first portion comprises pattern elements in the shape of lines, ellipses and / or rectangles oriented substantially parallel to the general orientation direction, whereas the identification pattern in this second portion comprises pattern elements oriented along two substantially transversal directions at the location of the one or more wood knots as well as pattern elements in the shape of lines, ellipses and / or rectangles oriented substantially parallel to the general orientation direction at the location of wood nerves. It is further observed that wood nerves and wood knots often have different colors, wherein the wood nerves may have a lighter color than the wood knots. It is therefore further preferred that the pattern elements of the identification pattern have a lighter color and / or lower distribution density in zones corresponding to wood nerves than the pattern elements in zones corresponding to wood knots. These particular embodiments may excellently conceal the identification pattern in such decorative patterns.

[0018] In a second particular embodiment, the decorative panel comprises two different decorative patterns. This may relate to a first decorative pattern having a first wood pattern and a second decorative pattern having a second, different, wood pattern. Alternatively, this may relate to the first decorative pattern having a first stone pattern and the second decorative pattern having a second, different, stone pattern. In this case, the identification pattern is preferably arranged, preferably repeated, on both decorative patterns. Preferably, in the case of two wood patterns, the identification pattern is at least in accordance with characteristic c) and preferably also characteristics a), b), wherein the identification pattern at least shows different features in the one or more portions of the first decorative pattern with respect to the identification pattern in the one or more portions of the second decorative pattern. Preferably, in the case of two stone patterns, the identification pattern is also in accordance with characteristic d), for example where the stone patterns comprise white zones that are free from identification patterns. The second particular embodiment may be envisaged in a situation where the decorative panel is a large motherboard, which in a subsequent operation is intended to be divided, thereby separating the different decorative patterns from each other and obtaining at least two decorative panels.

[0019] In a third particular embodiment, the decorative panel comprises two different decorative patterns, in particular a first decorative pattern having a wood pattern and a second decorative pattern having a stone pattern. In this case, the identification pattern is preferably formed, preferably repeated, on both decorative patterns. The identification pattern on the second decorative pattern, i.e. the stone pattern, is preferably at least in accordance with characteristic d) and preferably also characteristics b) and / or c), whereas the identification pattern on the first decorative pattern, i.e. the wood pattern, is preferably at least in accordance with characteristic c) and preferably also characteristics a) and / or b).

[0020] It is thus clear that each of the characteristics a), b), c) and d) provide particular benefits with regards to concealing the identification code in a particular decorative pattern, and in multiple particular embodiments provide synergistic effects. While not all combinations have been described, it is clear that further particular combinations may be envisaged, leading to identical or similar synergistic effects.

[0021] The decorative panel can preferably be a floor, wall, ceiling or furniture panel.

[0022] In the preferred embodiments, the decorative panel can be a laminate panel, preferably comprising a wood-based or a polymer-based panel, a ceramic slab, a mineral-based board, cement-based, an engineered stone slab. Preferably the decorative panel can be of the type comprising a base layer and a top layer, said top layer comprising the decorative pattern. Preferably the top layer can comprise a transparent or translucent layer above the decorative pattern and the identification pattern.

[0023] In the most preferred embodiments at least one between the decorative pattern and the identification pattern, preferably both, is digitally printed, preferably by digital inkjet printing. In an alternative embodiment, the decorative pattern is printed by analogue printing, for example rotogravure printing. Further alternatively, the decorative pattern is formed without printing, for example where the decorative pattern is formed by a wood veneer or a layer of stone. Preferably, the identification code can be formed by a plurality of printed dots.

[0024] In the most preferred embodiments, the identification code can be distributed, preferably repeated, over the entirety of the visible surface. In this way, the identification pattern can be better read even if the decorative panel is subsequently cut in smaller pieces and even if an operator using a reading device cannot see the identification pattern.

[0025] Possibly, the abovementioned portions of the visible surface and / or of the decorative pattern have a surface area that can contain a minimum fraction of the identification pattern that allows the readability of the identification pattern itself. In other words, the above mentioned portions of the visible surface and / or of the decorative pattern have a surface area that is sufficiently large such that it may contain the smallest fraction of the identification pattern that still allows the identification pattern to be read. This ensures that the portions are sufficiently large, such that at least a small enough part of the identification code may be available in a portion in order for the identification code to still be read out by a reading device. Preferably, the surface area of a said portion is preferably lower than 5 square centimeters, even more preferably lower than 2 square centimeters, for example 1 square centimeter. The inventors found that, with portions having these surface areas, the identification code could be read out accurately with a wide variety of reading devices. Preferably, the above mentioned portions of the visible surface and / or of the decorative pattern have a square or rectangular shape. This may allow maximization of the amount of times the identification pattern may be repeated or maximization of the amount of portions across which the identification pattern may be distributed.

[0026] It is possible that the portions of the visible surface comprising the identification pattern have different surface areas or different shapes. This may be by increasing or reducing the distribution density of the pattern elements of the identification pattern, thereby reducing or increasing the surface area needed for the identification pattern. For example, in portions having lighter colors, it may be beneficial to increase the surface area of a such portion in order to better conceal the identification pattern. On the other hand, it may be beneficial to have a portion with a smaller surface area when said portion has darker colors, which may allow more portions to be used, increasing the possible level of redundancy. Where the decorative pattern shows particular shapes, for example wood knots in the case of wood or veins in the case of stone, in particular marble, it may be beneficial to adapt the shape of the portion used for an identification code to these particular shapes. This may aid in better concealing the identification code. It may be beneficial to adapt the orientation of the pattern elements in a similar manner, for example by adjusting the orientation of said pattern elements to account for the shape and direction of one or more features of the decorative pattern, for example of a vein in the case of stone or marble, in order to better conceal the identification pattern.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment, the identification pattern can be read via electronic means, e.g. with an app on a smartphone, with a computer, or with a scanner. In a preferred embodiment, reading the identification pattern via electronic means, e.g. with an app on a smartphone, with a computer or with a scanner, returns information on the composition of the decorative panel comprising the printed decorative pattern. In a preferred embodiment, reading the identification pattern via electronic means, e.g. with an app on a smartphone, with a computer or with a scanner, returns information on methods of recycling the decorative panel comprising the, preferably printed, decorative pattern. Such embodiments have the benefit that after use and disposal of a decorative panel comprising the, preferably printed, decorative pattern, the information of methods of recycling is easily available. The decorative panel can be more easily recycled, preventing the decorative panel from being incinerated or put in landfill.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment, reading the identification pattern via electronic means, e.g. with an app on a smartphone, with a computer or with a scanner, returns information on the authentication of the decorative panel comprising the, preferably printed, decorative pattern. In a preferred embodiment, reading the identification pattern via electronic means, e.g. with an app on a smartphone, with a computer or with a scanner, returns information on maintenance instructions (e.g. cleaning instructions) of the decorative panel comprising the, preferably printed, decorative pattern. In a preferred embodiment, reading the identification pattern via electronic means, e.g. with an app on a smartphone, with a computer or with a scanner, returns information on the manufacturer of the decorative panel comprising the, preferably printed, decorative pattern. In a preferred embodiment, reading the identification pattern via electronic means, e.g. with an app on a smartphone, with a computer or with a scanner, returns information on installation instructions and / or cleaning instructions of the decorative panel comprising the, preferably printed, decorative pattern. In a preferred embodiment, reading the identification pattern via electronic means, e.g. with an app on a smartphone, with a computer or with a scanner, serves anti-counterfeit purposes of the decorative panel comprising the, preferably printed, decorative pattern. In a preferred embodiment, reading the identification pattern via electronic means, e.g. with an app on a smartphone, with a computer or with a scanner, establishes direct contact between a person reading the concealed code - e.g. a customer intending to purchase or who purchased the decorative panel comprising the, preferably printed, decorative pattern - and the manufacturer or distributor of the decorative panel comprising the, preferably printed, decorative pattern. Such embodiment facilitates the exchange of information between manufacturer or distributor on the one hand, and on the other hand a customer or person interested to buy the product.

[0029] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, said decorative panel preferably comprises at least a base layer and a top layer, the top layer comprising the upper visible surface comprising the decorative pattern and said identification pattern (or concealed code). Preferably, the top layer comprises a printed sheet comprising said decorative pattern and said identification pattern (or concealed code).

[0030] Said printed sheet may be a paper layer, preferably a resin-impregnated paper layer such as a melamine-impregnated paper layer. Preferably, the paper layer has a base weight of 50 to 100 grams per square meter, e.g. between 60 and 80 grams per square meter, and / or a mean air resistance, expressed with a Gurley value, measured according to Tappi 460, of 30 seconds or below, more preferably of 25 seconds or below. This may improve the printing quality ensuring that the identification code on the printed paper layer is as intended and may be read out without difficulties, and further may enhance the ease of impregnation of the printed paper layer. Said printed sheet may also be a synthetic sheet, preferably a thermoplastic sheet, such as a polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET) sheet. Such synthetic sheets may improve the waterresistance of the decorative panel. The thermoplastic foil may be foamed or unfoamed. The thermoplastic foil may comprise fillers. Said fillers may comprise organic fillers such as for example wood fibers or wood chips and / or inorganic filles such as chalk, limestone or other CaCCE fillers. The thermoplastic foil may comprise plasticizers. In a preferred embodiment, the thermoplastic foil substantially consists of rigid PVC, wherein rigid PVC comprises less than 10 phr plasticizer, wherein “phr” means parts per hundred parts of resin.

[0031] Preferably, said base layer is a wood-based base layer - preferably a wood fiberboard or a chipboard or a particleboard -, or said base layer is a mineral-based base layer - preferably a cement-based base layer or a gypsum-based base layer -, or said base layer is a thermoplastic material board, preferably a filled thermoplastic material board. Examples of wood fiberboard are MDF (medium density fiberboard) or HDF (high density fiberboard). A said mineral-based base layer may be an MgO (magnesium oxide) board. Examples of thermoplastic material boards may include SPC (solid polymer composite), WPC (wood polymer composite) and the like. Other thermoplastic material boards may comprise PET (polyethylene terephthalate), PETG (glycol modified PET), PP (polypropylene), PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and preferably a filler chosen from the list of: calcium carbonate, talcum powder, silica, clay, kaolin, glass fibers, carbon fibers and the like, or combinations thereof. Said base layer may be a physically and / or chemically foamed base layer.

[0032] Preferably, the top layer further comprises one or more wear layers at a side of the printed layer opposite the side of the base layer. This may have the benefit that both the decorative pattern and the identification pattern are protected, such that the decorative panel may better retain its decorative appearance while it remains possible to read out the identification pattern. Said one or more wear layers are preferably transparent or translucent. A said wear layer may be a paper layer impregnated with thermosetting resin, preferably with melamine-resin such as melamine-formaldehyde resin, or may be a layer of synthetic material, preferably thermoplastic material, for example a layer of PVC, PP, or PET. Preferably, at least one of the one or more wear layers comprises wear resistant particles, preferably corundum or aluminum oxide particles. Alternatively, it may be preferred that the one or more wear layers are free from wear resistant particles, such that the identification pattern remains optimally visible and readable.

[0033] In a preferred embodiment, the top layer comprises a wear layer comprising at least one melamine-resin impregnated paper layer above a printed resin-impregnated paper layer, preferably a printed melamine-impregnated paper layer, wherein the base layer is a wood-based base layer - for example a wood fiberboard such as an MDF board or an HDF board - or a mineral-based board such as an MgO board. In an alternative preferred embodiment, the top layer comprises a PVC wear layer above a printed PVC sheet, wherein the base layer is a, preferably filled, PVC-based base layer.

[0034] Preferably, the decorative panel comprises one or more lacquer layers, preferably polyurethane lacquer layers, at the side of the wear layer facing away from the base layer. Said one or more lacquer layers are preferably transparent or translucent. In a preferred embodiment, a said lacquer layer, and preferably each lacquer layer, has a gloss degree measured at a 60° angle equal to or below 10, preferably equal to or below 5. It is remarked that different measurement angles may be used, such as for example 20°, 60°, or 85° as described in ASTM Standard D523. The measurement angle is with respect to the surface normal, i.e. an axis perpendicular to the measured surface. Such low gloss degrees have the benefit that the light is reflected less, such that the subtle details of the identification pattern may be detected accurately, thus allowing the identification pattern to be very well hidden in the decorative pattern while still being detectable.

[0035] In some embodiments, the decorative panel is free from an aforementioned printed sheet, and the decorative pattern and the identification pattern may then be directly applied to the base layer. This preferably relates to direct printing, possibly with one or more preparatory layers between the base layer and the decorative pattern and the identification pattern.

[0036] In some embodiments, the decorative panel is free from an aforementioned printed sheet, and instead the top layer comprises a decorative layer such as a wood veneer or a layer of stone, wherein the identification pattern may then be directly applied to the decorative layer. This has the benefit that the decorative pattern, i.e. the pattern of the decorative layer, is true to nature, and that the identification pattern may be such that it is very well concealed within the decorative pattern.

[0037] In some embodiments, the decorative panel is provided with mechanical coupling parts at both edges of at least a first pair of opposite edges, preferably by milling. Said mechanical coupling parts preferably allow two such decorative panels to be coupled and / or locked to each other at their respective edges in a vertical direction perpendicular to the plane of the decorative panels as well as in a horizontal direction in the plane of the decorative panels and perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the coupled and / or locked edges, wherein said mechanical coupling parts are substantially shaped as a tongue and a groove, wherein the groove is bordered by an upper lip and a lower lip. Said mechanical coupling parts may comprise one or more of the features of WO 2018 / 172955 A2, WO 2020 / 109961 Al, WO 2021 / 105798 Al,

[0038] WO 2021 / 070022 Al, WO 2021 / 111210 Al, and / or WO 2023 / 100029 Al, wherein the coupling parts described in said patent publications are hereby incorporated by reference. As such, a floating floor may be obtained by connecting such decorative panels to each other at their respective edges. In some embodiments, the decorative panel, in particular the top layer and possibly also the base layer of the decorative panel, is provided with an inclined edge portion at at least one, and preferably each, of its side edges. It is noted that, where the decorative panel is a decorative motherboard, that these inclined edge portions preferably also relate to the edges of the decorative panels to be obtained after dividing said decorative motherboard. It is preferred that the decorative pattern and / or the identification pattern is present on at least one, and preferable all, of said inclined edge portions. For example, the decorative pattern and / or the identification pattern may extend uninterruptedly from a main upper surface of the decorative panel onto the inclined edge portion. Possibly, the identification pattern may only be applied on one, preferably each, inclined edge portion. As the inclined edge portions are less accessible, they are less prone to suffer from wear damage, such that by applying the identification pattern on the inclined edge portion or portions, the identification pattern may be extremely well protected. Said inclined edge portion may be a bevel, a chamfer, or similar.

[0039] It is clear that applying an identification pattern to a decorative substrate as in the first independent aspect also forms an inventive concept, irrespective of whether said decorative substrate forms part of a decorative panel. Therefore, in accordance with a first special independent aspect, the invention also relates to a decorative substrate, having at least an upper visible surface, said visible surface comprising a decorative pattern and an identification pattern (or concealed code), preferably said identification pattern being non-visible to the human eye and being detectable by a detecting device, wherein said identification pattern is formed by a plurality of pattern elements distributed on at least a portion of said visible surface, wherein the identification pattern comprises one or more of the following characteristics: a) the identification pattern comprises features oriented substantially parallel to a general orientation direction of the decorative pattern; b) the identification pattern comprises features oriented along two substantially transversal directions; c) the identification pattern is distributed, preferably repeated, on multiple portions of said visible surface, wherein the identification pattern shows varying features across said multiple portions; d) said visible surface comprises multiple surface portions, wherein the decorative pattern shows a first color in a first of said surface portions or in a first group of said surface portions and a second color in a second of said surface portions or in a second group of said surface portions, wherein said identification pattern is present only in one of the following: said first surface portion, said first group of said surface portions, said second surface portion, and said second group of said surface portions. Preferred embodiments of the first independent aspect and their corresponding benefits equally apply to the first special independent aspect, in as far as this does not lead to contradictions. The decorative substrate of the first special independent aspect may be used as a decorative sheet in a decorative panel in accordance with the first independent aspect. The decorative substrate of the first special independent aspect may also be used as substrate, preferably as directly printed substrate, in a decorative panel in accordance with the first independent aspect.

[0040] Within the scope of the invention, a decorative substrate may also relate to a sheet vinyl - preferably cushion vinyl - or to a carpet - for example a carpet tile, a wall-to-wall carpet, a broadloom carpet, or a rug.

[0041] According to its second independent aspect, the invention relates to a method for manufacturing a decorative panel, preferably wherein the decorative panel is a decorative panel as in the first independent aspect of the invention, wherein the method comprises the steps of: providing a starting decorative pattern being on a visible surface of the decorative panel or being to be applied on said visible surface; generating an identification pattern for being applied on a visible surface of the decorative panel, wherein said identification pattern is formed by a plurality of pattern elements distributed on at least a portion of said visible surface; applying said identification pattern on the visible surface of the decorative panel; wherein the identification pattern comprises one or more of the following characteristics: a) the identification pattern comprises features oriented substantially parallel to a general orientation direction of the decorative pattern; b) the identification pattern comprises features oriented along two substantially transversal directions; c) the identification pattern is distributed, preferably repeated, on multiple portions of said visible surface, wherein the identification pattern shows varying features in said multiple portions; d) said decorative pattern shows a first color in a first of said surface portions or in a first group of said surface portions and a second color in a second of said surface portions or in a second group of said surface portions, wherein said identification pattern is present only in one of the following: said first surface portion, said first group of surface portions, said second surface portion, and said second group of surface portions.

[0042] It is clear that a method similar to the method of the second independent aspect may also be used for manufacturing a decorative substrate in accordance with the first special independent aspect. Therefore, in accordance with its second special independent aspect, the invention relates to a method for manufacturing a decorative substrate, preferably wherein the decorative substrate is a decorative substrate as in the first special independent aspect of the invention, wherein the method comprises the steps of providing a starting decorative pattern being on a visible surface of the decorative substrate or being to be applied on said visible surface; generating an identification pattern for being applied on a visible surface of the decorative substrate, wherein said identification pattern is formed by a plurality of pattern elements distributed on at least a portion of said visible surface; applying said identification pattern on the visible surface of the decorative substrate; wherein the identification pattern comprises one or more of the following characteristics: a) the identification pattern comprises features oriented substantially parallel to a general orientation direction of the decorative pattern; b) the identification pattern comprises features oriented along two substantially transversal directions; c) the identification pattern is distributed, preferably repeated, on multiple portions of said visible surface, wherein the identification pattern shows varying features in said multiple portions; d) said decorative pattern shows a first color in a first of said surface portions or in a first group of said surface portions and a second color in a second of said surface portions or in a second group of said surface portions, wherein said identification pattern is present only in one of the following: said first surface portion, said first group of surface portions, said second surface portion, and said second group of surface portions.

[0043] Preferred embodiments of the first independent aspect and the first special independent aspect may also form preferred embodiments of the second independent aspect and the second special independent aspect, as long as this does not lead to contradictions.

[0044] According to its third independent aspect, the invention relates to a method for manufacturing a decorative panel, preferably wherein the decorative panel is a decorative panel as in the first independent aspect, wherein the method comprises the steps of providing a starting decorative pattern being on a visible surface of the decorative panel or being to be applied on said visible surface; generating an identification pattern for being applied on a visible surface of the decorative panel, wherein said identification pattern is formed by a plurality of pattern elements distributed on at least a portion of said visible surface; applying said identification pattern on the visible surface of the decorative panel; wherein the step of generating the identification pattern involves at least evaluating one or more features of the decorative pattern and generating one or more features of the identification pattern on the basis of said evaluation. Preferably, said identification pattern is generated such that it comprises one or more of the following characteristics: a) the identification pattern comprises features oriented substantially parallel to a general orientation direction of the decorative pattern; b) the identification pattern comprises features oriented along two substantially transversal directions; c) the identification pattern is distributed, preferably repeated, on multiple portions of said visible surface, wherein the identification pattern shows varying features in said multiple portions; d) said decorative pattern shows a first color in a first of said surface portions or in a first group of said surface portions and a second color in a second of said surface portions or in a second group of said surface portions, wherein said identification pattern is present only in one of the following: said first surface portion, said first group of surface portions, said second surface portion, and said second group of surface portions.

[0045] Said evaluation can involve one or more of the following operations: identifying the kind of decorative pattern, preferably said kind of decorative pattern being selected from the group comprising, preferably consisting of: wood, stone, marble and cement pattern; identifying a general orientation direction of the decorative pattern; identifying a plurality of portions of the decorative pattern wherein, a first of said portions or a first group of said portions shows a first color, and wherein a second of said portions or a second group of said portions shows a second color, preferably wherein said first and second color show a color difference AE of at least 10.

[0046] Preferred embodiments of the first independent aspect, the first special independent aspect, the second independent aspect and the second special independent aspect may form preferred embodiments of the third independent aspect, as long as this does not lead to contradictions.

[0047] In some embodiments of the second and third independent aspect, said step of generating the identification pattern can involve an image editing operation of a master image of said decorative pattern. Said image editing operation can be performed by an operator using a dedicated software, for example Photoshop, and / or can be performed by means of artificial intelligence, for example by a machine learning model. Preferably, said image editing operation involves a shifting in the color coordinates of pixels of the decorative pattern at the identification pattern. Said shifting in the color coordinates preferably relates to shifting the coordinates of a color in a color space, for example in the CIELAB color space or the HSB (Hue-Saturation-Brightness) color space. As such, the identification pattern may already be concealed in the master image after said image editing operation, such that the decorative pattern and the identification pattern may be transferred to a printer in a single print file and / or may be printed in one single printing operation. Furthermore, by performing said image editing operation, an operator can already evaluate whether the identification pattern is indeed invisible to the human eye before printing the decorative pattern and the identification pattern, and that the identification pattern does not reduce the aesthetics of the decorative pattern. It is noted that, since the master image comprises both the identification pattern and the decorative pattern, the step of applying the identification pattern may relate to a step of simultaneously applying the decorative pattern and the identification pattern.

[0048] In some embodiments, the identification pattern can be applied to the master image in form of one or more overlays above the decorative pattern. As this does not directly alter the decorative pattern, this may provide an excellent reproduction of the decorative pattern as it was designed.

[0049] In the most preferred embodiment, said step of applying said identification pattern can involve a digital printing operation, preferably an inkjet printing operation. This allows the decorative pattern and identification pattern to be printed efficiently, since it may be desired that different decorative panels, or different batches of decorative panels, are provided with different identification patterns. Most preferably, said decorative pattern and said identification pattern are applied in the same operation This may be done where the master image has been adapted by an image editing operation as mentioned above. Alternatively, the decorative pattern is applied first by analogue or digital printing, after which the identification pattern is applied by digital printing. Further alternatively, the decorative pattern is formed without printing, for example where the decorative pattern is formed by a wood veneer or by a layer of stone, and the identification pattern is then applied by digital printing, preferably by inkjet printing.

[0050] According to its third special independent aspect, the invention relates to a method for manufacturing a decorative substrate, preferably wherein the decorative substrate is a decorative substrate as in the first special independent aspect, wherein the method comprises the steps of providing a starting decorative pattern being on a visible surface of the decorative substrate or being to be applied on said visible surface; generating an identification pattern for being applied on a visible surface of the decorative substrate, wherein said identification pattern is formed by a plurality of pattern elements distributed on at least a portion of said visible surface; applying said identification pattern on the visible surface of the decorative substrate; wherein the step of generating the identification pattern involves at least evaluating one or more features of the decorative pattern and generating one or more features of the identification pattern on the basis of said evaluation. Preferred embodiments of the third independent aspect may form preferred embodiments of the third special independent aspect, as long as this does not lead to contradictions.

[0051] Preferably, said identification pattern is generated such that it comprises one or more of the following characteristics: a) the identification pattern comprises features oriented substantially parallel to a general orientation direction of the decorative pattern; b) the identification pattern comprises features oriented along two substantially transversal directions; c) the identification pattern is distributed, preferably repeated, on multiple portions of said visible surface, wherein the identification pattern shows varying features in said multiple portions; d) said decorative pattern shows a first color in a first of said surface portions or in a first group of said surface portions and a second color in a second of said surface portions or in a second group of said surface portions, wherein said identification pattern is present only in one of the following: said first surface portion, said first group of surface portions, said second surface portion, and said second group of surface portions. Preferred embodiments of the third independent aspect also apply to the third special independent aspect, as long as this does not lead to contradictions.

[0052] For better illustration of the features of the invention, some preferred embodiments are described hereunder, as examples without any limiting character, referring to the appended drawings, in which:

[0053] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a decorative panel in accordance with the first independent aspect of the invention; Figure 2 shows an enlarged view of the area indicated as F2 on Figure 1;

[0054] Figures 3A-3D show enlarged views of the areas indicated as F3A-F3D on Figure 2;

[0055] Figure 4 shows a perspective view of another decorative panel in accordance with the first independent aspect of the invention;

[0056] Figure 5 shows an enlarged view of the area indicated as F5 on Figure 4;

[0057] Figures 6A-6B and 7A-7C show enlarged views of the areas indicated as F6A- F6B and F7A-F7C on Figure 5;

[0058] Figure 8 shows a perspective view of still another decorative panel in accordance with the first independent aspect of the invention;

[0059] Figures 9A-9B and 10 A- IOC show enlarged views of the areas indicated as F9A- F9B and F10A-F10C on Figure 8;

[0060] Figure 11 schematically represents a method in accordance with the invention.

[0061] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a decorative panel 1 having an upper visible surface 2 comprising a decorative pattern and an identification pattern (or concealed code). Said identification pattern is non-visible to the human eye and is detectable by a detecting device, for example a camera or a mobile phone. Said identification pattern is formed by a plurality of pattern elements distributed on at least a portion of said visible surface 2. In this example, the decorative pattern is a wood pattern comprising at least wood nerves and wood knots. The wood nerves comprise a wood nerve direction, which in this case essentially corresponds to the general orientation direction, which substantially corresponds to the length direction of the decorative panel 1.

[0062] The decorative panel 1 of the example is provided with mechanical coupling parts 3-4 at both edges of a first pair of opposite edges 5-6 as well as with mechanical coupling parts 7-8 at both edges of a second pair of opposite edges 9-10. Said mechanical coupling parts 3-4-7-8 allow two such decorative panels 1 to be coupled and / or locked to each other at their respective edges in a vertical direction perpendicular to the plane of the decorative panels 1 as well as in a horizontal direction in the plane of the decorative panels 1 and perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the coupled and / or locked edges 5-6-9-10, wherein said mechanical coupling parts 3 -4-7-8 are substantially shaped as a tongue and a groove, wherein the groove is bordered by an upper lip and a lower lip. It is noted that any of the mechanical coupling parts 3-4-7-8 mentioned before may be applied here.

[0063] The decorative panel 1 of the example preferably comprises at least a base layer and a top layer, the top layer comprising the aforementioned upper visible surface 2 comprising the decorative pattern and said identification pattern (or concealed code). The top layer comprises a printed sheet comprising said decorative pattern and said identification pattern (or concealed code). In this example, the base layer is a wood-based base layer, preferably a wood fiberboard such as an MDF or HDF board. The printed sheet preferably comprises a melamine-impregnated paper layer. The top layer further preferably also comprises a, preferably transparent or translucent, wear layer - such as a melamine-impregnated paper layer - as well as a, preferably transparent or translucent, lacquer layer such as a polyurethane lacquer layer. The one or more wear layers may or may not comprise wear resistant particles, preferably corundum or aluminum oxide particles. Preferably, the lacquer layer has a gloss degree below 10, for example of at most 5, as measured according to ASTM Standard D523. It is noted that other base layers and top layers, as described earlier, are equally possible for this example. For example, the base layer could also be a PVC-based base layer, possibly comprising filler such as calcium carbonate. In this case, the top layer may comprise a PVC-based printed sheet, a transparent or translucent PVC-based wear layer, and a transparent or translucent lacquer layer - preferably a polyurethane lacquer - which preferably has a gloss degree of at most 10, for example of at most 5 or of at most 3, as measured according to ASTM Standard D523.

[0064] The decorative panel 1 of Figure 1 can be a floor, wall, ceiling or furniture panel.

[0065] Figure 2 shows an enlarged view of the area indicated as F2 on the decorative panel 1 of Figure 1. The markings on Figure 2 schematically illustrate the features of the wood pattern. The wood nerve direction in this case substantially corresponds to the general orientation direction which substantially corresponds to the length direction of the decorative panel 1. It is intended that the intensity of the markings on Figure 2 provides an indication of the darkness of the color of the corresponding zones, wherein more dense markings correspond to zones having a darker color than zones that are less, or not, marked, and vice versa. It is noted that the identification pattern is intended not to be visible to the human eye, and is therefore not drawn in this image. In this case, the identification pattern is repeated on multiple portions of the visible surface 2.

[0066] Figures 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D show more detailed views of the abovementioned multiple portions, which are indicated here as F3 A, F3B, F3C and F3D on Figure 2. Note that the size of the pattern elements 11 is exaggerated in order to increase the visibility of the identification pattern. The markings representing the darkness of the decorative pattern are provided in a dotted pattern in order to enhance the distinction with respect to the line-shaped pattern elements 11. The identification pattern is repeated on each of the multiple portions shown in Figures 3A-3D, wherein the pattern elements 11 of the multiple portions show varying features across said multiple portions. In each of the Figures 3A-3D, pattern elements 11 with a higher line thickness represent pattern elements 11 with a darker color. In order to better conceal the identification pattern, darker colors (here shown with thicker lines) may be used for the pattern elements 11 that are located in darker zones of the decorative pattern. The identification pattern in the Figures 3A-3D is thus in accordance with characteristic c). Further, the identification pattern of Figure 3C also shows that different distribution densities of the pattern elements 11 may be used, wherein the pattern elements 11 are packed more closely together in zones where the decorative pattern shows darker colors. It is noted that, even though not shown here, other variations to the pattern elements 11 may also be incorporated in order to better conceal the identification pattern, of which some examples are provided in the introduction.

[0067] Further, the identification pattern on the Figures 3A-3C is in accordance with characteristic a), as is clear from the line-shaped pattern elements 11 that are substantially along the general orientation direction. In Figures 3A-3C, the decorative pattern of the multiple portions only comprises wood nerves, such that the identification pattern may be efficiently concealed. The decorative portion of the portion represented in Figure 3D comprises wood nerves as well as a part of a wood knot, and the pattern elements 11 A in the areas corresponding to the wood nerves have linear shapes whereas the pattern elements 1 IB in the area of the wood knot have features oriented along two substantially transverse directions. Thus, the identification pattern of Figure 3D is in accordance with features a), b) and c). This provides very efficient concealing of the identification pattern.

[0068] Figure 4 shows a perspective view of another decorative panel 12, which in this case is a ceramic slab. The decorative panel has an upper visible surface 13 comprising a decorative pattern and an identification pattern (or concealed code). Said identification pattern is non-visible to the human eye and is detectable by a detecting device, for example a camera or a mobile phone. Said identification pattern is formed by a plurality of pattern elements distributed on at least a portion of said visible surface 13. In this example, the decorative pattern is a stone pattern, more particularly a marble pattern comprising veins. The veins have a lighter color, preferably white, than the remainder of the decorative panel, which preferably is black.

[0069] Figure 5 shows an enlarged view of the area indicated as F5 on Figure 4. It is clear that this example, in contrast to the example of Figures 1-3, does not comprise a general orientation direction.

[0070] Figures 6A and 6B show further enlarged views of the areas indicated as F6A and F6B on Figure 5. The darkness of the color of the decorative pattern and of the pattern elements 14 are represented in a similar manner as in Figures 3A-3D. In both Figures 6A and 6B, the identification pattern is in accordance with characteristics b) and c). In accordance with characteristic b), the pattern elements 14 in Figures 6A and 6B are formed by features oriented along two substantially transversal directions, for example by T-shapes, V-shapes, L-shapes and / or X-shapes. In accordance with characteristic c), the identification pattern is repeated on the multiple portions shown in Figures 6A and 6B, wherein the pattern elements 14 show varying features. These varying features in this case at least include different shapes and different color intensities.

[0071] Figures 7A-7C illustrate an alternative to the identification pattern and multiple portions of Figures 6A-6B. The multiple portions shown in Figures 7A-7C are indicated as F7A- F7C on Figure 5. In accordance with characteristic c), the identification pattern is repeated across multiple portions, and showing varying features across these multiple portions. These varying features here at least include different shapes and different color intensities. In accordance with characteristic b), the pattern elements 14 in Figures 7A- 7C are formed by features oriented along two substantially transversal directions, for example by T-shapes, V-shapes, L-shapes and / or X-shapes. Further, it is observed that the multiple portions of Figures 7A-7C actually correspond to portions of the decorative pattern having different colors, wherein the portion shown in Figure 7A has a first color, in this case white, and wherein the portions shown in Figures 7B and 7C have a second color, in this case black. The portion having the white color of Figure 7A is free from the identification pattern, whereas the portions having the black color of Figures 7B and 7C, have the identification pattern. Thus, the example of Figures 7A-7C is in accordance with characteristic d). It is noted that this particular combination may be very efficient in concealing the identification pattern in the decorative pattern such that the identification pattern is not visible to the human eye.

[0072] Figure 8 shows a perspective view of yet another decorative panel 15. The decorative panel 15 has an upper visible surface 16 comprising a decorative pattern and an identification pattern (or concealed code). Said identification pattern is non-visible to the human eye and is detectable by a detecting device, for example a camera or a mobile phone. Said identification pattern is formed by a plurality of pattern elements distributed on at least a portion of said visible surface. In this example, the decorative pattern is a combination of on the left hand a wood pattern and on the right hand a stone pattern, more particularly a marble pattern comprising veins. The veins have a darker color, preferably black, than the, preferably white, remainder of the stone pattern. This is a special case since on the one hand, the wood pattern has a general orientation direction in the direction of the wood nerves, whereas on the other hand, the stone pattern does not have a general orientation direction. In order to better distinguish between the wood pattern and the stone pattern in this image, the wood pattern and the stone pattern are drawn with different markings.

[0073] Figures 9A and 9B show enlarged views of the areas indicated by F9A and F9B on Figure 8, wherein Figure 9A is a portion of the decorative pattern comprising the wood pattern and Figure 9B is a portion of the decorative pattern comprising the stone pattern. The pattern elements 17A of Figure 9A are oriented substantially parallel to the general orientation direction of the wood pattern, which is essentially in the direction of the wood nerves. Additionally, the decorative pattern of Figure 9A comprises a part of a wood knot, in which the pattern elements 17B may be better concealed by having pattern elements that are oriented along two substantially transverse directions. Thus, the identification pattern of Figure 9A provides a combined use of the characteristics a) and b) in order to optimally conceal the identification pattern in the decorative pattern. Furthermore, the zones of the decorative pattern having darker colors comprise pattern elements 17A-17B having a higher color intensity than the zones of the decorative pattern having lighter colors. In Figure 9B, the pattern elements 18 comprise features oriented along two substantially transverse directions, which furthermore have a higher color intensity in zones of the decorative pattern having darker colors than in zones of the decorative pattern having lighter colors. As such, the identification pattern of Figure 9B is in accordance with characteristic b). The identification pattern used for the decorative panel 15 is repeated across multiple portions of the visible surface 16, showing varying features across said multiple portions, such that the identification pattern is further also in accordance with characteristic c).

[0074] Figures 10A-10C show multiple portions that may be an alternative to the multiple portions shown in Figures 9A-9B. The portions of Figures 10A-10C are indicated as F10A-F10C on Figure 8. In this example, the decorative pattern in the portions of Figures 10A and 10B comprise a first color, for example gray, whereas the decorative pattern in the portion of Figure IOC comprises a second color, for example white. In order to optimize the concealing of the identification pattern, the identification pattern is only present in the portions comprising the first color, i.e. the portions of Figures 10A and 10B, whereas the identification pattern is not applied to the portion or portions comprising the second color, such as the portion of Figure IOC. This is in accordance with characteristic d). Furthermore, as is clear from Figures 10A and 10B, the identification pattern is also in accordance with the characteristics a), b) and c). Figure 11 schematically illustrates a method for manufacturing a decorative panel 1, for example a decorative panel as in Figure 1 in accordance with the third independent aspect of the invention. Alternatively, this may also relate to a method for manufacturing a decorative panel 12-15 as in any one of Figures 4 and 8 in accordance with the third independent aspect of the invention. The method comprises the first step SI of providing a decorative panel 19 having a decorative pattern on a visible surface of the decorative panel 19. In a subsequent step S2, the decorative pattern on the visible surface of the decorative panel 19 is recorded with a recording device 20, e.g. using a camera or a similar device, and is evaluated in an evaluation step S3. On the basis of this evaluation, an identification pattern, or at least one or more features of the identification pattern, is generated that may be efficiently concealed in the decorative pattern. The generated identification pattern is formed by a plurality of pattern elements distributed on at least a portion of the visible surface. Preferably, said evaluation and / or generation is performed by a computing device 21, for example by a computer having at least one processing unit. In a subsequent application step S4, the generated identification pattern is applied by a printing device 22, preferably by digital printing such as by digital inkjet printing, on the visible surface of the decorative panel 19 in order to obtain a decorative panel 1 comprising a concealed identification pattern in the decorative pattern. Throughout this method, the decorative panel 19 is conveyed in a direction A.

[0075] Preferably, said identification pattern is generated such that it comprises one or more of the following characteristics: a) the identification pattern comprises features oriented substantially parallel to a general orientation direction of the decorative pattern; b) the identification pattern comprises features oriented along two substantially transversal directions; c) the identification pattern is distributed, preferably repeated, on multiple portions of said visible surface, wherein the identification pattern shows varying features in said multiple portions; d) said decorative pattern shows a first color in a first of said surface portions or in a first group of said surface portions and a second color in a second of said surface portions or in a second group of said surface portions, wherein said identification pattern is present only in one of the following: said first surface portion, said first group of surface portions, said second surface portion, and said second group of surface portions.

[0076] Said evaluation can involve one or more of the following operations: identifying the kind of decorative pattern, preferably said kind of decorative pattern being selected from the group consisting of: wood, stone, marble and cement pattern; identifying a general orientation direction of the decorative pattern; identifying a plurality of portions of the decorative pattern wherein, a first of said portions or a first group of said portions shows a first color, and wherein a second of said portions or a second group of said portions shows a second color, preferably wherein said first and second color show a color difference AE of at least 10.

[0077] It is noted that, while the example of Figure 11 evaluates an already present decorative pattern and generates an identification pattern based on this evaluation, it is also possible that, according to an alternative, an image editing operation is applied to a master image of the decorative pattern, such that, in a printing step, the master image comprising the decorative pattern and the identification pattern, may be printed simultaneously. In this case, a starting decorative pattern is provided, which is to be provided to the future decorative panel in a subsequent printing step. Said image editing operation can be performed by an operator using a dedicated software, for example Photoshop, and / or can be performed by means of artificial intelligence, for example by a machine learning model. Preferably, said image editing operation involves a shifting in the color coordinates of pixels of the decorative pattern at the identification pattern. Said shifting in the color coordinates preferably relates to shifting the coordinates of a color in a color space, for example in the CIELAB color space or the HSB color space. As such, the identification pattern may already be concealed in the master image after said image editing operation, such that the decorative pattern and the identification pattern may be transferred to a printer in a single print file and / or may be printed in one single printing operation. The present invention is in no way limited to the hereinabove described embodiments, but such decorative panels and methods for manufacturing thereof may be realized according to different variants without leaving the scope of the present invention.

Claims

Claims:

1. A decorative panel (1-12-15) having at least an upper visible surface (2-13-16), said visible surface (2-13-16) comprising a decorative pattern and an identification pattern, preferably said identification pattern being non-visible to the human eye and being detectable by a detecting device, wherein said identification pattern is formed by a plurality of pattern elements (11-11A-11B-14-17A-17B-18) distributed on at least a portion of said visible surface (2-13-16), wherein the identification pattern comprises one or more of the following characteristics: a) the identification pattern comprises features oriented substantially parallel to a general orientation direction of the decorative pattern; b) the identification pattern comprises features oriented along two substantially transversal directions; c) the identification pattern is distributed, preferably repeated, on multiple portions of said visible surface (2-13-16), wherein the identification pattern shows varying features across said multiple portions; d) said visible surface comprises multiple surface portions, wherein the decorative pattern shows a first color in a first of said surface portions or in a first group of said surface portions and a second color in a second of said surface portions or in a second group of said surface portions, wherein said identification pattern is present only in one of the following: said first surface portion, said first group of surface portions, said second surface portion, and said second group of surface portions.

2. The decorative panel in accordance with claim 1, wherein in characteristics a) and b) said features comprise the shape of the pattern elements (11-11A-11B-14-17A- 17B-18), preferably in feature a) said pattern elements being lines oriented substantially parallel to the general orientation direction of the decorative pattern.

3. The decorative panel in accordance with claim 1 or 2, wherein said decorative pattern is a wood pattern comprising wood nerves having a nerve direction, preferablysaid nerve direction being the longitudinal direction of the decorative panel, said general orientation direction of the decorative pattern corresponding to the nerve direction.

4. The decorative panel in accordance with claim 1, wherein in feature b) said pattern elements (11-11A-11B-14-17A-17B-18) are formed by at least two intersecting lines, for example said pattern elements being V-shaped, L-shaped, X-shaped and / or T- shaped.

5. The decorative panel in accordance with claim 3 or 4, wherein said decorative pattern is a stone or cement pattern that comprises stone veins, flakes and / or grains being randomly distributed over the visible surface.

6. The decorative panel in accordance with claim 1, wherein in characteristic c) said features of the identification pattern comprise shape, dimension, color intensity and / or distribution density of said pattern elements (11-11A-11B-14-17A-17B-18).

7. The decorative panel in accordance with claim 6, wherein the variation of said features of the identification pattern coincides to a variation of features of the decorative pattern in said multiple portions.

8. The decorative panel in accordance with claim 7, wherein said variation of features of the decorative pattern comprises a color variation.

9. The decorative panel in accordance with claim 8, wherein said decorative pattern comprises at least a first color in one or more of said multiple portions, and comprises at least a second color in one or more of said multiple portions.

10. The decorative panel in accordance with claim 8 or 9, wherein said decorative pattern is a stone or marble pattern comprising a first color and comprising veins, grains and / or flakes having a second color being different from the first color.

11. The decorative panel in accordance with claim 8 or 9, wherein the first color is lighter than the second color or the second color is lighted than the first color, and wherein said pattern elements (11-11 A-l 1B-14-17A-17B-18) show a smaller dimension and / or a lower distribution density in said portions having the lighter color.

12. The decorative panel in accordance with claim 1, wherein said first color and said second color in characteristic d) show a color difference AE of at least 10.

13. The decorative panel in accordance with claim 1, wherein in characteristic d) said first color or said second color is white.

14. The decorative panel in accordance with claim 1, wherein in characteristic d) the decorative pattern is a marble pattern comprising a first color, for example white or black, and veins having a second color, for example respectively black or white.

15. The decorative panel in accordance with claim 14, wherein the identification pattern is not present in surface portions corresponding to white color in the decorative pattern.

16. The decorative panel in accordance with claim 14, wherein the identification pattern is present, preferably only, in surface portions having a color different from white.

17. The decorative panel in accordance with any of the preceding claims, being a floor, wall, ceiling or furniture panel.

18. The decorative panel in accordance with any of the preceding claims, being a laminate panel, preferably comprising a wood-based or a polymer-based panel, a ceramic slab, a mineral -based board, cement-based, an engineered stone slab.

19. The decorative panel in accordance with any of the preceding claims, being of the type comprising a base layer and a top layer, said top layer comprising the decorative pattern.

20. The decorative panel in accordance with any of the preceding claims, wherein at least one between the decorative pattern and the identification pattern is digitally printed.

21. The decorative panel in accordance with claim 20, wherein the identification pattern is formed by a plurality of printed dots.

22. The decorative panel in accordance with any of the preceding claims, wherein the identification pattern is distributed over the entirety of the visible surface.

23. The decorative panel in accordance with any of the preceding claims, wherein a said portion has a surface area that can contain a minimum fraction of the identification pattern that allows the readability of the identification pattern itself.

24. The decorative panel in accordance with any of the preceding claims, wherein the surface area of a said portion is preferably lower than 5 square centimeters, even more preferably lower than 2 square centimeters.

25. The decorative surface in accordance with any of the preceding claims, wherein the panel comprises one transparent or translucent layer above the decorative pattern and the identification pattern.

26. A method for manufacturing a decorative panel, preferably in accordance with any of the preceding claims, comprising the steps of: providing a starting decorative pattern being on a visible surface of the decorative panel (19) or being to be applied on said visible surface; generating an identification pattern for being applied on a visible surface of the decorative panel (19), wherein said identification pattern is formed by a plurality of pattern elements distributed on at least a portion of said visible surface; applying said identification pattern on the visible surface of the decorative panel (19); wherein the identification pattern comprises one or more of the following characteristics:a) the identification pattern comprises features oriented substantially parallel to a general orientation direction of the decorative pattern; b) the identification pattern comprises features oriented along two substantially transversal directions; c) the identification pattern is distributed, preferably repeated, on multiple portions of said visible surface, wherein the identification pattern shows varying features in said multiple portions.

27. A method for manufacturing a decorative panel preferably in accordance with any of the preceding claims, comprising the steps of providing a starting decorative pattern being on a visible surface of the decorative panel (19) or being to be applied on said visible surface; generating an identification pattern for being applied on a visible surface of the decorative panel (19), wherein said identification pattern is formed by a plurality of pattern elements distributed on at least a portion of said visible surface; applying said identification pattern on the visible surface of the decorative panel (19); wherein the step of generating the identification pattern involves at least evaluating one or more features of the decorative pattern and generating one or more features of the identification pattern on the basis of said evaluation.

28. The method in accordance with claim 27, wherein said evaluation involves one or more of the following operations: a) Identifying the kind of decorative pattern, preferably said kind of decorative pattern being selected from the group comprising, preferably consisting of wood, stone, marble and cement pattern; b) Identifying a general orientation direction of the decorative pattern; c) Identifying a plurality of portions of the decorative pattern wherein, a first of said portions or a first group of said portions shows a first color, and wherein a second of said portions or a second group of said portions shows a second color, preferably wherein said first and second color show a color difference AE of at least 10.

29. The method in accordance with claim 27 or 28, wherein said identification pattern is generated such that it comprises one or more of the following characteristics: a) the identification pattern comprises features oriented substantially parallel to a general orientation direction of the decorative pattern; b) the identification pattern comprises features oriented along two substantially transversal directions; c) the identification pattern is distributed, preferably repeated, on multiple portions of said visible surface, wherein the identification pattern shows varying features in said multiple portions; d) said decorative pattern shows a first color in a first of said surface portions or in a first group of said surface portions and a second color in a second of said surface portions or in a second group of said surface portions, wherein said identification pattern is present only in one of the following: said first surface portion, said first group of surface portions, said second surface portion, and said second group of surface portions.

30. The method in accordance with any of claims from 26 to 29, wherein said generation involves an image editing operation of a master image of said decorative pattern.

31. The method in accordance with claim 30, wherein said image editing operation involves a shifting in the color coordinates of pixels of the decorative pattern at the identification pattern.

32. The method in accordance with claim 30 or 31, wherein said identification pattern is applied to the master image in the form of one or more overlay above the decorative pattern.

33. The method in accordance with any of claims from 26 to 32, wherein said step of applying said identification pattern involves a digital printing operation, preferably an inkjet printing operation.

34. The method in accordance with any of claims from 26 to 33, wherein said decorative pattern and said identification pattern are applied in the same operation.

Images