Detachable Protruding Lip for Panel Locking Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing panel systems for wall, ceiling, or floor coverings, especially those designed for herringbone patterns, often lack effective vertical locking mechanisms, making them unstable and difficult to manufacture without damaging delicate locking elements.
Innovation Solution
The panel system features a detachable protruding lip with a horizontal locking element that engages with a horizontal locking groove on adjacent panels, providing stable horizontal locking. Additionally, vertical locking is achieved through a combination of mechanical means, such as insertable locking elements, and adhesive locking, allowing for easy pattern installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If integrated mechanical locking means are provided in coupling parts for preventing drifting apart of floor panels, then the panels achieve stable connection, but the manufacturing process becomes complicated and delicate locking elements are easily damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into separate components: a coupling part with a groove and a separate locking element that can be inserted into the groove. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently with simpler processes, reducing the risk of damage during manufacturing while maintaining the stability of the connection when assembled.
2Manufacturing precision
If locking elements are made delicate to achieve form-fitting connection, then the connection precision is improved, but the elements become easily damaged during manufacturing and installation
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling part includes a groove with specific geometric features that provide guidance and support for the locking element during insertion and operation. This pre-designed groove structure cushions and protects the delicate locking element from damage by ensuring proper alignment and distributing mechanical stresses during manufacturing and installation processes.
3Ease of operation
If conventional coupling elements are used for herringbone patterns, then the installation process is simplified, but vertical locking is insufficient making the installation unstable
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism incorporates both horizontal and vertical locking capabilities. The groove in the coupling part is designed to accommodate locking elements that provide restraint in multiple directions, including vertical locking for herringbone patterns. This multi-dimensional locking approach maintains ease of installation while ensuring stability in all required directions.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a Panel (1) for wall-, ceiling- or floor coverings, comprising an upper side (2), a lower side (3), and front ends (4), defining a circumference of the panel in the installed state, and at least one front end (4) is protruded with respect to the circumference by a detachable protruding lip (5) formed at the lower side (3), one horizontal locking groove (6) at the lower side (3), characterized in that the protruding lip (5) has a predetermined break-off surface (7). Furthermore, the present invention relates to methods for manufacturing wall-, ceiling- and/or floor coverings comprising or consisting of a plurality of the panels (1).