Floor Panel Locking Element with Slit Spring for Installation Force Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for laying floor panels without glue, such as those made of MDF or HDF, require careful installation to avoid damaging locking elements and are prone to connection failures due to high compression forces, which can lead to separation over time due to temperature and humidity changes.
Innovation Solution
The locking element is designed to move freely in both horizontal and vertical directions through slits, allowing for lower installation forces and preventing overstretching, with the width of the slits determining the connection strength and providing a stop to prevent overextension.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the locking element is strongly compressed to ensure high locking forces, then the connection strength between panels is improved, but the locking element may be destroyed or the connection may become too tight causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is designed as a spring element that can dynamically adjust its compression state. During installation, the element can be compressed to engage the locking groove, then springs back to maintain optimal locking force without excessive compression that would cause damage. This dynamic behavior allows the connection to adapt to panel dimensional changes while maintaining reliable locking.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring constant and pre-compression force of the locking element can be optimized to achieve the desired balance between locking force and element integrity. By carefully selecting the spring parameters, the system achieves sufficient locking strength while preventing element destruction through controlled elastic deformation rather than rigid compression.
2Ease of operation
If the panel is tilted during installation to facilitate connection, then the locking process is simplified, but excessive compression forces may destroy the locking elements
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element absorbs excess compression forces generated during tilted installation through elastic deformation. When panels are tilted into position, the spring element compresses beyond its optimal state but then springs back, converting the excessive kinetic energy into elastic potential energy rather than causing element destruction. This allows easier installation while protecting the locking elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element acts as a cushioning element that anticipates and absorbs excessive compression forces before they can damage the locking mechanism. The elastic properties of the spring provide a buffer zone that protects both the locking element and the panel connection during the installation process, especially when panels are tilted or misaligned.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the locking element is rigidly fixed in the panel core, then the connection stability is improved, but the element cannot adapt to dimensional changes causing connection failure
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element provides dynamic adaptability to dimensional changes in the panel core while maintaining stable locking. As the panel core expands or contracts due to humidity or temperature changes, the spring element can compress or extend accordingly, maintaining constant contact with the locking groove and preventing connection failure. This dynamic adjustment preserves both stability and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element's length and compression state can change in response to panel dimensional variations. The elastic properties allow the element to adjust its physical parameters (length, compression force) while maintaining the locking function, enabling the connection to accommodate thermal and hygroscopic expansion without losing stability.
4Reliability
If narrow tolerance profile is used to control compression forces, then element destruction is prevented, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of relying on tight geometric tolerances to control compression forces, the invention uses the spring constant and pre-compression parameters as the primary control mechanisms. The spring element's material properties and dimensions can be precisely controlled during manufacturing, providing a more forgiving approach than rigid geometric tolerances while still protecting the locking element from excessive forces.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design allows for easier and less careful installation of floor panels, reduces the risk of locking element damage, and ensures a secure connection that remains stable over time despite environmental changes.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element (3) which is connected to the core (17) in one piece and is exposed by at least one slit (10, 11) formed in the core (17), in such a way that the spring element (3) can move in a horizontal plane and can move into the space created by the exemption
Implementation Method 2
a spring element (3) which is connected to the core (17) in one piece and is exposed by at least one slit (10, 11) formed in the core (17)
Implementation Method 3
to connect the panels on the transverse sides, the seed material is first compressed and a lug provided on the tongue as a locking element then snaps in behind an undercut acting as a locking edge in the groove of the opposite panel
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for laying floor panels (1.n, 2.n, …) in a room to form a closed floor area on a laying plane (Ev) without using an adhesive, said floor panels especially consisting of a wood material, such as MDF or HDF, and having matching corresponding profiles on opposite longitudinal edges (I, I') and transverse edges (II, II'). The closed floor area is obtained by interconnecting a plurality of panels (1.1, 1.2,..., 2.1, 2.2,...) on their transverse edges (II, II') to give a row (R3) and on their longitudinal edges (I, I') to give a plurality of rows (Rn) and then locking them in relation to each other.