Stair cladding
The stair cladding system addresses the need for a visually appealing and robust stair covering by integrating a step profile and lateral cap with varying thickness sections, produced from floor panels, ensuring ease of installation and material efficiency.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- UNILIN BVBA
- Filing Date
- 2025-12-01
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-18
Smart Images
Figure IB2025062245_18062026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] STAIR CLADDING
[0002] This invention relates to a profile that can be used, for example, as a stair cladding in the covering of stairs.
[0003] WO2021 / 099886A1 describes a method for manufacturing a folded panel. The method comprises the following steps: providing a longitudinal recess at the rear side of a panel, such that at the front side between the remaining panel parts on both sides of the recess a flexible transition section remains, bending the panel parts relative to each other, and applying an adhesive in the recess. Before the panel parts are bent relative to each other, a template is inserted into the recess. The panel parts are bent relative to each other over this template, after which the template is removed again. The folded panel can be used as a covering of stairs.
[0004] WO2024 / 153993 Al shows a folded panel having a front side, a rear side, a first panel part, a second panel part and a bent transition section. The first panel part and the second panel part preferably have the same thickness. The first panel part and the second panel part are connected to each other at the front of the stair cladding via the bent transition section and together form a single entity. The space between the first panel part, the second panel part and the bent transition section comprises an insert. The bent transition section is bent over the insert. The insert is at least attached to one or both of the first panel part or the second panel part; and / or to the bent transition section. The folded panel can be used as a stair nose.
[0005] DE20305142U1 describes a covering for stairs, with an L-shaped corner profile made from a plank part, and an end profile connected to a long side of the plank part via a connecting piece. The stair covering may comprise end caps which are attached to the L- shaped corner profile with a half-miter joint.
[0006] It is an object of the invention to solve problems of state-of-the-art folded panels and stair claddings. The first aspect of the invention is a stair cladding, the stair cladding comprising a step profile and a lateral cap. The step profile comprises a top side, a first panel part and a bent transition section. The first panel part comprises a backing and a top layer. The bent transition section comprises a top layer. The top layer of the first panel part continues uninterrupted into the top layer of the bent transition section. The lateral cap is attached to a side of the step profile. The lateral cap comprises a backing and a top layer. The lateral cap comprises a first section and a second section, the first section being thinner than the second section. Both the first section and the second section comprise the top layer of the lateral cap. The first section is attached to a side of the first panel part, such that this side is at least partially, and preferably completely, covered by the lateral cap.
[0007] It is an advantage of the stair cladding of the first aspect of the invention that it provides a visually appealing stair cladding which can be used in the covering of stairs. It is a further advantage that this stair cladding can be produced from floor panels, such that the stair cladding offers the same visual aspect as the floor panels on the stairs, or on the floor close to the stairs.
[0008] The step profile can also be manufactured from a first floor panel; and the lateral cap can be manufactured from the same or from a second such floor panel. If these are panels that show a wood decor, in this way a very nice imitation of a stair covering of solid wood can be obtained.
[0009] It is a further advantage that the production of the stair cladding according to the invention is straightforward.
[0010] The lateral cap can be attached to the stair cladding using adhesive.
[0011] Preferably, a rear part of the thickness of the second section is located beneath the first panel part. This increases the strength and durability of the stair cladding. The second section of the lateral cap preferably has a thickness equal to the thickness of the panel from which the lateral cap is manufactured. This increases the strength and durability of the stair cladding, and ensures a straightforward production of the stair cladding.
[0012] The thickness of the second section is preferably more than 7 mm.
[0013] Such a lateral cap can be provided on both sides of the stair cladding, and may or may not be identical to each other. It is also possible that such a lateral cap is provided on only one side of the stair cladding.
[0014] A stair cladding that comprises such a lateral cap on both sides can be used for the covering of stairs that are open to both sides.
[0015] A stair cladding that comprises a lateral cap on only one side can, for example, be used to for the covering of stairs that are open to one side and attached to a wall on the other side.
[0016] The top layer of the first panel part is preferably laminated onto the backing of the first panel part.
[0017] The top layer of the lateral cap is preferably laminated onto the backing of the lateral cap.
[0018] In a preferred embodiment, both the first section of the lateral cap and the second section of the lateral cap comprise the backing of the lateral cap, wherein the backing is thinner in the first section of the lateral cap than in the second section of the lateral cap. Preferably, in terms of material, the backing continues from the first section of the lateral cap into the second section of the lateral cap.
[0019] Indeed, the first section of the lateral cap is thinner than the second section of the lateral cap. Still, it is advantageous that this first section of the lateral cap also comprises the backing of the lateral cap and not only the top layer of the lateral cap. This ensures sufficient strength of the lateral cap and of the stair cladding as a whole.
[0020] Preferably, the edge of the lateral cap follows the profile of the bent transition section. This creates a visually attractive stair cladding, which can be used as a covering of stairs.
[0021] It is possible to produce the lateral cap directly to its final size and attach it in the stair cladding, for example using adhesive.
[0022] It is possible to produce the lateral cap slightly larger than necessary. More specifically, the first section of the lateral cap can be made slightly larger than necessary. After attaching the lateral cap in the stair cladding, any protruding edges of the lateral cap can be cut away by means of mechanical operations (for example, by means of a milling operation) to obtain a neatly fitting lateral cap in the stair cladding.
[0023] In this way, tolerances can be accommodated, and it is ensured that a visually attractive stair cladding is obtained.
[0024] Preferably, the first section of the lateral cap covers the side of the bent transition section. This ensures an attractive visual aspect of the stair cladding, which can also be produced in an straightforward manner.
[0025] Preferably, the bent transition section comprises a backing, the backing of the bent transition section being formed by an uninterrupted continuation of a part of the thickness of the backing of the first panel part.
[0026] Preferably, over at least a part of its length the bent transition section is thinner than the first panel part. This embodiment has the advantage of achieving a more visually pleasing aspect, as the bent transition section can be more precisely formed by folding.
[0027] The step profile may comprise a second panel part, the first panel part and the second panel part preferably having the same thickness. The first panel part and the second panel part are connected to each other via the bent transition section and together form a single entity.
[0028] This embodiment provides a step profile and stair cladding that are more robust.
[0029] This second panel part may comprise a top layer, which is an uninterrupted continuation of the top layer of the first panel part via the top layer of the bent transition section.
[0030] Preferably, the second panel part comprises a backing made from the same material as the backing of the first panel part. More preferably, the backing of the second panel part is an uninterrupted continuation of the backing of the first panel part via the - preferably thinner - backing of the bent transition section.
[0031] The lateral cap may comprise a third section which is thinner than the second section. The third section comprises the top layer, and preferably a backing. The third section is attached to a side of the second panel part, such that this side is at least partially, and preferably completely, covered.
[0032] This embodiment offers a visually appealing stair cladding, which can be used for the covering of stairs, whilst also being very robust.
[0033] Preferably, a rear part of the thickness of the second section is located between the first panel part and the second panel part. This synergistically creates a very robust stair cladding.
[0034] Preferably, the first panel part, the bent transition section - and, if present, the second panel part - are manufactured from one panel, at least by a bending operation to obtain the bent transition section. This creates a visually very attractive stair cladding.
[0035] Preferably, the space between the first panel part and the bent transition section comprises an insert. This embodiment has the advantage that the step profile - and the stair cladding - are more straightforward to produce and are more robust. The insert can be glued into the step profile or mechanically attached to it, for example by means of a snap connection.
[0036] In a preferred embodiment of the stair cladding, at least a part of the bent transition section is bent over an insert.
[0037] Preferably the lateral cap covers the side of the insert. More preferably, the first section of the lateral cap covers the side of the insert. This creates a visually very attractive stair cladding.
[0038] The top layer of the first panel part and the top layer of the bent transition section may comprise a decor. The decor can be a printed decor; optionally combined with a texture, more preferably a texture in register with the printed decor. This decor can be a wood imitation, or an imitation of natural stone material, for example an imitation of marble.
[0039] The decor of the top layer of the first panel part preferably continues uninterrupted into the decor of the top layer of the bent transition section.
[0040] The decor may also comprise a layer of veneer, with or without one or more protective lacquer layers on it.
[0041] A preferred embodiment of the stair cladding is characterized in that the decor of the first panel part and of the bent transition section on the one hand, and the decor of the lateral cap on the other hand, are a similar decor. By “a similar decor” it is not necessarily meant that both decors are identical, but that they offer a visual impression of a similar decor. For example, both decors offer a similar wood imitation or a similar marble imitation, considering the inherent, natural variation of wood and marble.
[0042] These embodiments provide a visually even more attractive aspect of the stair cladding. The stair cladding then looks as if it is made from a natural material such as wood or marble. The backing of the first panel part can be wood based. The backing of the first panel part may be or comprise a wood fiberboard - for example a MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) or a HDF (High Density Fiberboard) board. The backing of the first panel part may be or comprise particle board. The backing of the first panel part may comprise a layer which comprises wood particles.
[0043] A balance layer, for example a paper impregnated with thermosetting resin, may be applied on, or laminated onto the backing of the first panel part. This balance layer may have a balancing function, to neutralize stress in the panel caused by applying the top layer.
[0044] The backing of the first panel part may be a filled or unfilled thermoplastic board, for example a polyvinyl chloride based board, a polyester based board, a polypropylene based board, or a polyethylene based board. Fillers can be organic fillers (e.g. wood fibers or wood dust) or mineral fillers (e.g. calcium carbonate).
[0045] The backing of the lateral cap can be wood based. The backing of the lateral cap may be or comprise a wood fiberboard - for example an MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) or an HDF (High Density Fiberboard) board. The lateral cap backing may be or comprise particle board. The lateral cap backing may comprise a layer which comprises wood particles.
[0046] A balance layer, for example a paper impregnated with thermosetting resin, may be applied on, or laminated onto the backing of the lateral cap. This balance layer may have a balancing function. This balance layer may have a balancing function, to neutralize stress in the panel caused by applying the top layer.
[0047] The backing of the lateral cap part may be a filled or unfilled thermoplastic board, for example a polyvinyl chloride based board, a polyester based board, a polypropylene based board, or a polyethylene based board. Fillers can be organic fillers (e.g. wood fibers or wood dust) or mineral fillers (e.g. calcium carbonate). The decor of the top layer of the first panel part may be a wood decor; and the decor of the lateral cap may be a wood decor; wherein the grain of the wood decor of the top layer of the first panel part runs parallel to the bent transition section; and wherein the grain of the wood decor of the lateral cap in the stair cladding forms an angle of 90° with the first panel part.
[0048] This embodiment creates a visually very attractive stair cladding, as it gives the impression that the stair cladding is manufactured from solid wood.
[0049] The decor of the top layer of the first panel part may be a wood decor; and the decor of the lateral cap may be a wood decor; wherein the grain of the wood decor of the top layer of the first panel part in the stair cladding runs parallel to the grain of the wood decor of the lateral cap.
[0050] This embodiment creates a visually very attractive stair cladding, as it gives the impression that the stair cladding is manufactured from solid wood.
[0051] The decor of the top layer of the first panel part may be a wood decor; and the decor of the lateral cap may be a wood decor, wherein the grain of the wood decor of the top layer of the first panel part runs parallel to the bent transition section; and wherein the grain of the wood decor of the lateral cap in the stair cladding forms an angle of 90° with the direction of the grain of the wood decor of the top layer of the first panel part. This embodiment is easy to produce from similar floor panels.
[0052] Preferably, the backing of the first panel part and the backing of the lateral cap are manufactured from the same material.
[0053] Preferably, the first panel part and the second section of the lateral cap have the same thickness. The first panel part and the bent transition section may be manufactured from a first decorative panel comprising a backing and a top layer. The lateral cap may be manufactured from the same panel, or from another such panel.
[0054] These embodiments have the advantage that fewer types of raw materials are required to produce the stair cladding. Thus the first panel part, the bent transition section, and the lateral cap may have the same top layer; this means they have a similar decor.
[0055] However, it is also possible for the lateral cap to be manufactured from a panel with a different decor, or even a different type of decor, than the first panel part, the bent transition section, and, if present, the second panel part.
[0056] The top layer of the first panel part may comprise a printed sheet of paper (preferably resin impregnated) or a printed polymer film. Optionally, the top layer of the first panel part may comprise a wear layer, for example a resin impregnated sheet of paper, or one or more coating layers, for example one or more acrylate coating layers.
[0057] The top layer of the first panel part may comprise a layer of veneer, with optionally a wear layer, for example one or more lacquer layers, for example acrylate lacquer layers.
[0058] The top layer of the first panel part may comprise a print on the backing, and optionally a wear layer.
[0059] The top layer of the lateral cap may comprise a printed sheet of paper (preferably resin impregnated) or a printed polymer film. Optionally, the top layer of the lateral cap may comprise a wear layer, for example a resin impregnated sheet of paper, or one or more coating layers, for example one or more acrylate coating layers.
[0060] The top layer of the lateral cap may comprise a layer of veneer, with optionally a wear layer, for example one or more lacquer layers, for example acrylate lacquer layers. The top layer of the lateral cap may comprise a print on the backing of the lateral cap, and optionally a wear layer.
[0061] Preferably, the first section of the lateral cap has a thickness of less than 2 mm, more preferably a thickness of less than 1.5 mm, and more preferably a thickness of less than 1 mm. For example, the thickness of the first section of the lateral cap can be 0.8 mm.
[0062] Such embodiments have the advantage that the transition between the lateral cap and the first panel part is barely visible. This increases the visually attractive aspect of the stair cladding when used as a covering of stairs.
[0063] The lateral cap may have a rectangular shape, with at least at the bent transition section a rounded comer. Other corners of the rectangular shape can also be rounded.
[0064] In a preferred embodiment, the space between the first panel part and the bent transition section comprises an insert; and the space between the first panel part and the bent transition section comprises a second insert.
[0065] Such embodiments allow the stair cladding to be given a specific, desired design; a design that allows for a visually attractive stair cladding.
[0066] Hereby, preferably at least a part of the bent transition section is bent over the insert.
[0067] Preferably the insert is glued in the stair cladding or mechanically attached. This mechanical attachment can be done, for example, by means of a snap connection.
[0068] Hereby, preferably at least a part of the bent transition section is bent over the second insert.
[0069] Preferably, the second insert is glued in the step profile or mechanically attached. This mechanical attachment can be done, for example, by means of a snap connection. The bent transition section may comprise a first curved zone on the insert and a second curved zone on the second insert. Optionally, the bent transition section may comprise a straight zone between the first curved zone and the second curved zone.
[0070] The bent transition section can be thicker in the straight zone than in either the first curved zone or the second curved zone. More preferably, the bent transition section has the same thickness in the straight zones as the first panel part.
[0071] These embodiments provide an easy to produce step profile that is very strong when used as stair covering.
[0072] The first panel part may comprise, on the side opposite the bent transition section, a male or female coupling part, configured for coupling to a female or male coupling part of a floor panel, respectively.
[0073] The coupling part of the first panel part on the side opposite the bent transition section preferably is configured for a coupling wherein a locking occurs perpendicular to the top side of the first panel part; and / or wherein a locking occurs in the plane of the top side of the first panel part and perpendicular to the coupled edges.
[0074] In a preferred embodiment, the first panel part on the side opposite the bent transition section comprises a female coupling part. This female coupling part comprises a groove. This female coupling part is configured to connect the first panel part to the tongue of a floor panel. Preferably, the female coupling part is configured for a coupling wherein a locking occurs perpendicular to the top side of the first panel part; and / or wherein a locking occurs in the plane of the top side of the first panel part and perpendicular to the coupled edges.
[0075] These embodiments allow the step profile of the invention to be used in a covering of stairs, wherein the profile comprises the stair nose, and a floor panel can be easily coupled on the stair step, to the groove of the first panel part of the step profile. Of course, it is possible - and preferred - that the floor panel that is coupled on the one hand and the first panel part on the other hand have the same decor.
[0076] In a preferred embodiment, the step profile comprises a floor panel. The first panel part comprises a coupling part on the side opposite the bent transition section. With the coupling part the first panel part is coupled to a corresponding coupling part of the floor panel, wherein the first panel part and the floor panel are coupled in a plane. The first section of the lateral cap at least partially covers a lateral edge of the floor panel.
[0077] Such a stair cladding results in a visually appealing stair covering that is easy to produce and that can be easily mounted on stairs.
[0078] Preferably, a rear part of the thickness of the second section is located beneath the floor panel.
[0079] Preferably, when the coupling part of the first panel part is coupled to the coupling part of the floor panel, a locking occurs perpendicular to the top side of the first panel part and / or a locking occurs in the plane of the top side of the first panel part and perpendicular to the coupled edge of the first panel part.
[0080] The coupling part of the first panel part on the side opposite the bent transition section preferably comprises a groove between an upper lip and a lower lip. The corresponding coupling part of the floor panel preferably comprises a tongue, wherein, when coupled, the tongue in the groove provides a locking in the direction perpendicular to the top side of the first panel part.
[0081] More preferably, the lower lip comprises an upwardly directed protrusion and the tongue comprises a corresponding recess, wherein, when coupled, the protrusion and the corresponding recess provide a locking in the plane of the top side of the first panel part and perpendicular to the coupled edge of the first panel part. An aspect of the invention is a set for covering a stair step with a stair cladding as in any embodiment of the first aspect of the invention. The set comprises a step profile and a lateral cap. The step profile and the lateral cap may each be configured as described in embodiments of the stair cladding of the first aspect of the invention.
[0082] An aspect of the invention is a set for covering a stair step with a stair cladding as in any embodiment of the first aspect of the invention. The set comprises a step profile and a lateral cap. The lateral cap comprises a plane of symmetry that is horizontally oriented in a mounted state, or a plane of symmetry that is vertically oriented in a mounted state, or both. Any excess of the lateral cap can be sawed off for use in the stair cladding. The step profile and the lateral cap may each be configured as described in embodiments of the stair cladding of the first aspect of the invention.
[0083] An aspect of the invention are stairs, characterized in that the stairs comprise at least one step covered with a stair cladding as in any embodiment of the first aspect of the invention.
[0084] With a view to better demonstrating the characteristics of the invention, the following, as an example without any restrictive character, describes some preferred embodiments, with reference to the appended drawings, in which:
[0085] Figures 1 and 2 illustrate a stair cladding according to the invention for a stair covering;
[0086] Figure 3 shows a detail of the stair cladding;
[0087] Figures 4 and 5 show details of the step profile;
[0088] Figures 6 - 10 show details of the lateral cap;
[0089] Figure 11 shows a detail of the coupling between the first panel part and a floor panel;
[0090] Figure 12 shows stairs covered with stair claddings according to the invention; and
[0091] Figures 13 and 14 show alternatives for a lateral cap for a stair cladding according to the invention. The reference signs in the various figures have the same meaning.
[0092] Figures 1 and 2 show an example of a stair cladding 10 according to the invention for the covering of stairs. The stair cladding 10 comprises a step profile 12 and a lateral cap 25.
[0093] Figure 1 shows the stair cladding 10 under construction, with the step profile 12, and wherein the lateral cap 25 still has to be attached.
[0094] Figure 2 shows the stair cladding 12 with the lateral cap 25 mounted. In the example, the step profile 12 for the covering of a stair step comprises a floor panel 73.
[0095] The step profile 12 has a top side 14. The step profile 12 comprises a first panel part 16, a bent transition section 17, a second panel part 40. The lateral cap 25 is attached to the side of the step profile 12. The edge of the lateral cap 25 follows the stair cladding of the bent transition section 17.
[0096] Figures 4 and 5 show details of the step profile 12. The first panel part 16 comprises a backing 19 and a top layer 20. In the example, the top layer 20 is laminated onto the backing 19.
[0097] The bent transition section 17 comprises a top layer 22 and a backing 37. The top layer 20 of the first panel part 16 continues uninterrupted into the top layer 22 of the bent transition section 17.
[0098] The first panel part 16 and the second panel part 40 are connected to each other via the bent transition section 17 and together form a single entity.
[0099] The second panel part 40 comprises a top layer 39, which is the uninterrupted continuation of the top layer 20 of the first panel part 16 via the top layer 22 of the bent transition section 17. The top layer 20 of the first panel part 16, the top layer 22 of the bent transition section 17 and the top layer of the second panel part 39 - top layers that merge into each other - comprise a continuously printed decor, optionally with texture. This decor can imitate a wood structure.
[0100] The second panel part 40 comprises a backing 23 from the same material as the backing 19 of the first panel part 16 and the backing 37 of the transition section.
[0101] The backing 19 of the first panel part 16 continues, albeit thinner, as the backing 37 of the transition section 17 in the thicker backing 23 of the second panel part 40.
[0102] The second panel part 40 has the same thickness as the first panel part 16.
[0103] The top layers 20, 22, 23 of the first panel part 16, the transition section 17 and the second panel part respectively have the same thickness and are the continuous extension of each other.
[0104] Figures 6 - 10 show details of the lateral cap 26. The lateral cap 25 is shown in Figure 6, cross-sections thereof in Figures 7 and 8, and details thereof in Figures 9 and 10.
[0105] The lateral cap 25 comprises a backing 27 and a top layer 28. In the example, the top layer 28 is laminated onto the backing 27. The top layer 28 of the lateral cap 25 comprises a printed decor, optionally with texture. This decor can imitate a wood decor.
[0106] The lateral cap 25 comprises a first section 31, a second section 32, and a third section 44. The first section 31 and the third section 44 are thinner than the second section 32. In the example, the second section 32 has the same thickness as the first panel part 16. In the example, the first section 31 has the same thickness as the third section 44, for example 0.8 mm.
[0107] All of the first section 31, the second section 32, and the third section 44 comprise the top layer 28 of the lateral cap 25. The first section 31 of the lateral cap 25 is attached to a side 33 of the first panel part 16 such that this side is covered by the lateral cap 25. The first section 31 also covers the side of the bent transition section 17.
[0108] A rear part 35 of the thickness of the second section 31 is located beneath the first panel part 16; and more specifically between the first panel part 16 and the second panel part 40. This is illustrated in Figure 3.
[0109] Figure 3 shows a detail of the stair cladding 10. Figure 3 also shows that the first section 31 of the lateral cap 25 can be made sized slightly larger than necessary. After attaching the lateral cap 25, this excess 38 - shown as dotted line in Figure 3 - can be removed by a mechanical operation, making the contour of the first section 31 neatly fitting.
[0110] All of the first section 31, the second section 32 and the third section 44 of the lateral cap 25 comprise the backing 27. The backing 27 is thicker in the second section 32 than in the first section 31 and than in the third section 44. The material of the backing 27 of the lateral cap 25 extends from the first section 31 into the second section 32, and from the second section 32 into the third section 44.
[0111] Over part of its length, the bent transition section 17 is thinner than the first panel part 16.
[0112] The space between the first panel part 16 and the bent transition section 17 comprises an insert 50. A part of the bent transition section 17 is bent over the insert. The insert 50 is glued into the stair cladding 12 with adhesive 52. Alternatively, the insert can be attached mechanically.
[0113] The space between the first panel part 16 and the bent transition section 17 comprises a second insert 60. A part of the bent transition section 17 is bent over the second insert 60. The second insert 60 is glued into the stair cladding 12. Alternatively, the second insert 60 can be attached mechanically. In the example shown, the bent transition section 17 comprises a first curved zone 61 on the insert 50, a second curved zone 62 on the second insert 60; and a straight zone 63 between the first curved zone 61 and the second curved zone 62. The straight zone 63 is thicker than the first curved zone 61 and than the second curved zone 62. In the example, the straight zone has the same thickness as the first panel part 16 and as the second panel part 40.
[0114] The lateral cap 25 covers - by means of the first section 31 of the lateral cap 25 - the side of the insert 50 and the side of the second insert 60.
[0115] The first panel part 16, the bent transition section 17 and the second panel part 40 can be manufactured from one panel. This panel comprises a backing and a top layer. The backing can be a wood-based backing, for example a wood fiberboard. The top layer can be a decorative printed sheet of paper, with or without a wear layer. The top layer is laminated onto the backing. This panel can be a laminate panel, for example produced according to the DPL (Direct Pressure Laminate) method. Other types of panels can also be used.
[0116] By milling away at the back of this panel and bending - for example at elevated temperature - the panel, the bent transition section 17 can be formed. The first panel part 16 and the second panel part 40 are straight sections of the used panel. In this way, the top layer 20 of the first panel part 16 continues via the top layer 22 of the bent transition section 17 into the top layer 23 of the second panel part 40.
[0117] The lateral cap 25 can be manufactured from the same panel or from a second such panel. In this way, the lateral cap 25 has the same decorative aspect - for example a similar wood decor - as the combination of the first panel part 16, the bent transition section 17 and the second panel part 40. However, it is also possible for the lateral cap 25 to be manufactured from a panel with a different decor, or even from a different type of decor. When produced from panels that form an imitation of a wooden plank, the lateral cap can be produced and mounted in such a way that the grain of the wood decor of the top layer of the first panel part runs parallel to the bent transition section; and that the grain of the wood decor of the lateral cap in the stair cladding forms an angle of 90° with the first panel part. This provides an imitation of a stair cladding for the covering of stairs from solid wood.
[0118] When produced from panels that imitate a wooden plank, the lateral cap can be produced and mounted in such a way that the grain of the wood decor of the top layer of the first panel part runs parallel to the grain of the wood decor of the lateral cap in the stair cladding. This provides an imitation of a stair cladding for the covering of stairs from solid wood.
[0119] When produced from panels that form an imitation of a wooden plank, the lateral cap can be produced and mounted in such a way that the grain of the wood decor of the top layer of the first panel part runs parallel to the bent transition section; and that the grain of the wood decor of the lateral cap in the stair cladding forms an angle of 90° with the direction of the grain of the wood decor of the top layer of the first panel part.
[0120] The stair cladding 12 for the stair covering of the example comprises a floor panel 73. The first section 31 of the lateral cap 25 covers a lateral edge of the floor panel 73, with a rear part of the thickness of the second section being located beneath the floor panel 73.
[0121] As illustrated in Figure 11, the first panel part 16 comprises a coupling part on the side opposite the bent transition section 17. This coupling part comprises a groove 70 between an upper lip 75 and a lower lip 76. The floor panel 73 comprises a corresponding coupling part. This corresponding coupling part of the floor panel 73 comprises a tongue 71. When coupled, the tongue 71 and the groove 70 provide a locking in the direction perpendicular to the top side 14 of the first panel part 16. The lower lip 76 comprises an upwardly directed protrusion 78 and the tongue 71 comprises a corresponding recess 79. When coupled, the protrusion and the corresponding recess provide a locking in the plane of the top side 14 of the first panel part 16 and perpendicular to the coupled edge of the first panel part 16.
[0122] Figure 12 shows stairs 80, the steps 82 of which are covered with stair claddings 12 as shown in Figure 2. The other reference numbers in Figure 12 have the same meaning as in the other figures.
[0123] Figure 13 shows an alternative lateral cap 25 for a stair cladding according to the invention. Figure 13 shows this lateral cap 25 in a similar view as in Figure 6. The reference numbers in Figure 13 have the same meaning as in the other figures. The lateral cap 25 of Figure 13 is symmetrical. Depending on whether one or the other side of a step profile 12 is to be covered by the lateral cap 25, one of the sides of the lateral cap 25 can be sawn, for example for use as a lateral cap 25 in the stair cladding 10 of Figures 1 and 2 it is sawn along line 50, such that then the lateral cap of Figure 6 is obtained.
[0124] Figure 14 shows an alternative lateral cap 25 for a stair cladding according to the invention. This lateral cap 25 can be supplied in a set together with a step profile, for mounting on a stair step of a stair cladding according to the invention. The lateral cap 25 of Figure 14 comprises two planes of symmetry 52, 54, which allow the lateral cap 25 to be used in differently rotated ways. To this end, a redundant part of the lateral cap 25 can be sawn off in the same manner as shown in Figure 13. Figure 14 shows a lateral cap 25 with a plane of symmetry 52 which in a mounted state of the lateral cap 25 is horizontally oriented; and with a plane of symmetry 54 that in a mounted state of the lateral cap 25 is vertically oriented. Lateral caps that have only one of these two planes of symmetry, either the horizontally oriented plane in a mounted state, or the vertically oriented plane of symmetry in a mounted state, are also possible.
[0125] The present invention is by no means limited to the embodiments described hereinbefore, but such products can be realized according to different variants without departing from the scope of the present invention.
Claims
Claims1 A stair cladding, wherein the stair cladding (10) comprises a step profile (12) and a lateral cap (25); wherein the stair cladding (10) comprises a top side (14), a first panel part (16), and a bent transition section (17); wherein the first panel part comprises a backing (19) and a top layer (20), preferably wherein the top layer is laminated onto the backing (19); wherein the bent transition section (17) comprises a top layer (22); wherein the top layer (20) of the first panel part (16) continues uninterrupted into the top layer (22) of the bent transition section (17); wherein the lateral cap (25) is attached to a side of the step profile (12); wherein the lateral cap (25) comprises a backing (27) and a top layer (28), preferably wherein the top layer (28) is laminated onto the backing (27) of the lateral cap (25); wherein the lateral cap (25) comprises a first section (31) and a second section (32); wherein the first section (31) is thinner than the second section (32); wherein both the first section (31) of the lateral cap (25) and the second section (32) of the lateral cap (25) comprise the top layer (28); wherein the first section (31) is attached to a side (33) of the first panel part (16), such that this side (33) of the first panel part (16) is at least partially, and preferably completely, covered by the lateral cap (25); preferably wherein a rear part (35) of the thickness of the second section (31) is located beneath the first panel part (16).2.- The stair cladding according to claim 1, characterized in that both the first section (31) of the lateral cap (25) and the second section (32) of the lateral cap (25) comprise the backing (27) of the lateral cap (25), wherein the backing (27) of the lateral cap (25) is thinner in the first section (31) than in the second section (32); preferably wherein the backing (27) of the lateral cap (25), in terms of material, continues from the first section (31) into the second section (32).3.- The stair cladding according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the edge of the lateral cap (25) follows the profile of the bent transition section (17).4.- The stair cladding according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first section (31) of the lateral cap (25) covers the side of the bent transition section (17).5.- The stair cladding according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bent transition section (17) comprises a backing (37), wherein the backing (37) of the bent transition section (17) is formed by an uninterrupted continuation of a part of the thickness of the backing (27) of the first panel part (16).6.- The stair cladding according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that over at least a part of its length the bent transition section (17) is thinner than the first panel part (16).7.- The stair cladding according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the step profile (12) comprises a second panel part (40); wherein the first panel part (16) and the second panel part (40) are connected to each other via the bent transition section (17) and together form a single entity; preferably wherein the first panel part (16) and the second panel part (40) have the same thickness.8.- The stair cladding according to claim 7, characterized in that the second panel part (40) comprises a top layer (23), wherein the top layer (23) of the second panel part (40) is an uninterrupted continuation of the top layer (20) of the first panel part (16) via the top layer (22) of the bent transition section (17).9.- The stair cladding according to any of the preceding claims 7 - 8, characterized in that the second panel part (40) comprises a backing (39) from the same material as the backing (19) of the first panel part (16).10.- The stair cladding according to any of the preceding claims 7 - 9, characterized in that the lateral cap (25) comprises a third section (44), wherein the third section (44) is thinner than the second section (32), wherein the third section (44) comprises the top layer (28) of the lateral cap (25), and preferably a backing; wherein the third section (44) is attached to a side of the second panel part (40), such that this side is at least partially, and preferably completely, covered.11.- The stair cladding according to any of the preceding claims 7 - 10, characterized in that a rear part of the thickness of the second section (32) of the lateral cap (25) is located between the first panel part (16) and the second panel part (40).12.- The stair cladding according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first panel part (16), the bent transition section (17) and, if present, the second panel part (40) are manufactured from one panel, at least by a bending operation to obtain the bent transition section (17).13.- The stair cladding according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the space between the first panel part (16) and the bent transition section (17) comprises an insert (50); preferably wherein at least a part of the bent transition section (17) is bent over the insert (50); and / or preferably wherein the insert (50) is glued into the step profile (12) or is mechanically attached in the step profile (12).14.- The stair cladding according claim 13, characterized in that the lateral cap (25) covers the side of the insert (50), preferably by the first section (31) of the lateral cap (25).15.- The stair cladding according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the top layer (20) of the first panel part (16) and the top layer (22) of the bent transition section (17) comprise a decor, preferably a printed decor, optionally with texture.16.- The stair cladding according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the top layer (28) of the lateral cap (25) comprises a decor, preferably a printed decor, optionally with texture.17.- The stair cladding according to claim 15 and according to claim 16, characterized in that the decor of the first panel part (16) and of the bent transition section (17) on the one hand, and the decor of the lateral cap (25) on the other hand, are a similar decor.18.- The stair cladding according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the backing (20) of the first panel part (16) is wood based, preferably the backing (16) is or comprises a wood fiberboard - for example a MDF or a HDF board or preferably the backing (16) comprises a particle board or a layer which comprises wood particles.19.- The stair cladding according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the backing (27) of the lateral cap (25) is wood based, preferably the backing (27) of the lateral cap (25) is or comprises a wood fiberboard - for example a MDF or a HDF board or the backing (27) of the lateral cap (25) comprises a particle board or a layer which comprises wood particles.20.- The stair cladding according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the decor of the top layer (20) of the first panel part (16) is a wood decor; and that the decor of the top layer (28) of the lateral cap (25) is a wood decor; wherein according to a first option the grain of the wood decor of the top layer (20) of the first panel part (16) runs parallel to the bent transition section (17); and wherein the grain of the wood decor of the lateral cap in the stair cladding forms an angle of 90° with the first panel part (16); or that according to a second option the grain of the wood decor of the top layer (20) of the first panel part (16) in the stair cladding runs parallel to the grain of the wood decor of the lateral cap (25); or that according to a third option the grain of the wood decor of the top layer (20) of the first panel part (16) runs parallel to the bent transition section (17); and wherein the grainof the wood decor of the lateral cap in the stair cladding forms an angle of 90° with the direction of the grain of the wood decor of the top layer of the first panel part.21 The stair cladding according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the backing (19) of the first panel part (16) and the backing (27) of the lateral cap (25) are manufactured from the same material.22.- The stair cladding according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first panel part (16) and the second section (32) of the lateral cap (25) have the same thickness.23.- The stair cladding according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the top layer (20) of the first panel part (16) comprises a printed sheet of paper or a printed polymer film, and optionally a wear layer; or that the top layer (20) of the first panel part (16) comprises a layer of veneer; or that the top layer (20) of the first panel part (16) comprises a print on the backing (19), and optionally a wear layer.24.- The stair cladding according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the top layer (28) of the lateral cap (25) comprises a printed sheet of paper or a printed polymer film, and optionally a wear layer; or that the top layer (28) of the lateral cap (25) comprises a layer of veneer; or that the top layer (28) of the lateral cap (25) comprises a print on the backing (27), and optionally a wear layer.25.- The stair cladding according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first section (31) of the lateral cap (25) has a thickness of less than 2 mm, and more preferably a thickness of less than 1.5 mm, more preferably a thickness of less than 1 mm.26.- The stair cladding according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the lateral cap (25) has a rectangular shape, with at least at the bent transition section (17) a rounded comer.27.- The stair cladding according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the space between the first panel part (16) and the bent transition section (17) comprises an insert (50), preferably wherein at least a part of the bent transition section (17) is bent over the insert; and / or preferably wherein the insert (50) is glued into the step profile (12) or is mechanically attached; and that the space between the first panel part (16) and the bent transition section (17) comprises a second insert (60); preferably wherein at least a part of the bent transition section (17) is bent over the second insert (60); and / or preferably wherein the second insert (60) is glued into the step profile (12) or is mechanically attached.28.- The stair cladding according to claim 27, characterized in that the bent transition section (17) comprises a first curved zone (61) on the insert (50), comprises a second curved zone (62) on the second insert; and optionally comprises a straight zone (63) between the first curved zone and the second curved zone.29.- The stair cladding according to claim 28, characterized in that the bent transition section (17) is thicker in the straight zone (63) than in both the first curved zone (61) and the second curved zone (62); preferably wherein the bent transition section has the same thickness in the straight zone as the first panel part (16).30.- The stair cladding according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first panel part (16) comprises a female coupling part which comprises a groove (70), on the side opposite the bent transition section (17), wherein the female coupling part is configured for coupling to the tongue (71) of a floor panel; preferably wherein in this coupling a locking occurs perpendicular to the top side (14) of the first panel part (16); and / or wherein a locking occurs in the plane of the top side (14) of the first panel part (16) and perpendicular to the coupled edges.31.- The stair cladding according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the step profile (12) comprises a floor panel (73), wherein the first panel part (16) comprises a coupling part on the side opposite the bent transition section (17); wherein the first panel part (16) is coupled to the coupling part to a corresponding coupling partof the floor panel (73); wherein the first panel part (16) and the floor panel (73) are coupled in a plane, preferably wherein in this coupling a locking occurs perpendicular to the top side (14) of the first panel part (16) and / or a locking occurs in the plane of the top side (14) of the first panel part (16) and perpendicular to the coupled edge of the first panel part (16); wherein the first section (31) of the lateral cap (25) at least partially covers a lateral edge of the floor panel (73); preferably wherein a rear part of the thickness of the second section (32) of the lateral cap (25) is located beneath the floor panel (73).32.- The stair cladding according to claim 31, characterized in that the coupling part of the first panel part on the side opposite the bent transition section comprises a groove (70) between an upper lip (75) and a lower lip (76), and wherein the corresponding coupling part of the floor panel comprises a tongue (71), wherein in a coupled state the tongue (71) in the groove (70) provides a locking in the direction perpendicular to the top side (14) of the first panel part (16); preferably wherein the lower lip (76) comprises an upwardly directed protrusion (78) and wherein the tongue (71) comprises a corresponding recess (79), wherein in a coupled state the protrusion (78) and the corresponding recess (79) provide a locking in the plane of the top side (14) of the first panel part (16) and perpendicular to the coupled edge of the first panel part (16).33.- A set for covering a stair step with a stair cladding (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the set comprises a step profile (12) and a lateral cap (25).34.- A set for covering a stair step with a stair cladding (10) according to any of the preceding claims 1 - 32, characterized in that the set comprises a step profile (12) and a lateral cap (25); wherein the lateral cap comprises a plane of symmetry that is horizontally oriented in a mounted state, or a plane of symmetry that is vertically oriented in a mounted state, or both; wherein an excess of the lateral cap (25) can be sawed off for use in the stair cladding.35.- Stairs, characterized in that the stairs (80) comprise at least one step (82) that is covered with a stair cladding (10) according to any of the preceding claims 1 - 32.