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EP2686502B1 - Système de joints verticaux et système de revêtement de surface associé - Google Patents

Système de joints verticaux et système de revêtement de surface associé Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2686502B1
EP2686502B1 EP12760572.3A EP12760572A EP2686502B1 EP 2686502 B1 EP2686502 B1 EP 2686502B1 EP 12760572 A EP12760572 A EP 12760572A EP 2686502 B1 EP2686502 B1 EP 2686502B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
joint
male
female
locking
joints
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP12760572.3A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Other versions
EP2686502A1 (fr
EP2686502A4 (fr
Inventor
Richard William KELL
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Valinge Innovation AB
Original Assignee
Valinge Innovation AB
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from AU2011900987A external-priority patent/AU2011900987A0/en
Application filed by Valinge Innovation AB filed Critical Valinge Innovation AB
Priority to PL19195981T priority Critical patent/PL3597836T3/pl
Priority to EP19195981.6A priority patent/EP3597836B1/fr
Priority to PL12760572T priority patent/PL2686502T3/pl
Priority to EP22150200.8A priority patent/EP4050180A1/fr
Publication of EP2686502A1 publication Critical patent/EP2686502A1/fr
Publication of EP2686502A4 publication Critical patent/EP2686502A4/fr
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP2686502B1 publication Critical patent/EP2686502B1/fr
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
    • E04F15/00—Flooring
    • E04F15/02—Flooring or floor layers composed of a number of similar elements
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
    • E04F15/00—Flooring
    • E04F15/02—Flooring or floor layers composed of a number of similar elements
    • E04F15/02038—Flooring or floor layers composed of a number of similar elements characterised by tongue and groove connections between neighbouring flooring elements
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04C—STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS; BUILDING MATERIALS
    • E04C2/00—Building elements of relatively thin form for the construction of parts of buildings, e.g. sheet materials, slabs, or panels
    • E04C2/30—Building elements of relatively thin form for the construction of parts of buildings, e.g. sheet materials, slabs, or panels characterised by the shape or structure
    • E04C2/38—Building elements of relatively thin form for the construction of parts of buildings, e.g. sheet materials, slabs, or panels characterised by the shape or structure with attached ribs, flanges, or the like, e.g. framed panels
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
    • E04F15/00—Flooring
    • E04F15/02—Flooring or floor layers composed of a number of similar elements
    • E04F15/0215—Flooring or floor layers composed of a number of similar elements specially adapted for being adhesively fixed to an underlayer; Fastening means therefor; Fixing by means of plastics materials hardening after application
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
    • E04F15/00—Flooring
    • E04F15/02—Flooring or floor layers composed of a number of similar elements
    • E04F15/04—Flooring or floor layers composed of a number of similar elements only of wood or with a top layer of wood, e.g. with wooden or metal connecting members
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
    • E04F15/00—Flooring
    • E04F15/02—Flooring or floor layers composed of a number of similar elements
    • E04F15/10—Flooring or floor layers composed of a number of similar elements of other materials, e.g. fibrous or chipped materials, organic plastics, magnesite tiles, hardboard, or with a top layer of other materials
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
    • E04G23/00—Working measures on existing buildings
    • E04G23/006—Arrangements for removing of previously fixed floor coverings
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
    • E04F2201/00—Joining sheets or plates or panels
    • E04F2201/01—Joining sheets, plates or panels with edges in abutting relationship
    • E04F2201/0138—Joining sheets, plates or panels with edges in abutting relationship by moving the sheets, plates or panels perpendicular to the main plane
    • E04F2201/0146—Joining sheets, plates or panels with edges in abutting relationship by moving the sheets, plates or panels perpendicular to the main plane with snap action of the edge connectors
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
    • E04F2201/00—Joining sheets or plates or panels
    • E04F2201/03—Undercut connections, e.g. using undercut tongues or grooves
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
    • E04F2201/00—Joining sheets or plates or panels
    • E04F2201/04—Other details of tongues or grooves
    • E04F2201/041—Tongues or grooves with slits or cuts for expansion or flexibility
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
    • E04F2201/00—Joining sheets or plates or panels
    • E04F2201/07—Joining sheets or plates or panels with connections using a special adhesive material
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
    • E04F2201/00—Joining sheets or plates or panels
    • E04F2201/09—Puzzle-type connections for interlocking male and female panel edge-parts
    • E04F2201/098—Puzzle-type connections for interlocking male and female panel edge-parts wherein the interlocking male and female edge-parts have a dovetail, mushroom or similar shape

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a vertical joint system for substrates enabling the substrates to be jointed together side by side.
  • substrates include wooden boards or panels which may be used as floor, wall or ceiling covering.
  • the present invention also relates to surface covering systems utilising substrates which incorporate the joint system.
  • “Click” type floor coverings comprise a plurality of substrates, each provided with like joint systems to facilitate coupling of adjacent substrates. These joint systems often comprise first and second joints running along two opposite sides of the substrate. The joints are configured so that the first joint on one substrate is able to engage the second joint on an adjacent substrate. The joints rely on specific configurations of tongues, grooves, protrusions, recesses and barbs to effect interlocking engagement.
  • Joint systems for flooring may be generally categorised as horizontal (or "lay down") joint systems or vertical joint systems.
  • Horizontal joint systems require motion in a plane substantially parallel to a plane containing a major surface of the flooring substrate (i.e. a horizontal plane) in order to effect the engagement of joints on adjacent substrates.
  • Vertical joint systems on the other hand require motion and/or force in a plane perpendicular to a major surface of the substrates to effect engagement of the joints.
  • substrates can be laid on surfaces of other dispositions for example on vertical surfaces such as a vertical wall; or, inclined surfaces such as on a pitched ceiling.
  • the vertical joint system holds it's meaning as a joint system that operates/engages by way of motion and/or force in a plane perpendicular to a major surface of the substrates
  • An aspect of the present invention is to provide a vertical joint system for substrates.
  • the vertical joint systems facilitate the provision of surface covering system that allow for very easy installation and more particularly repair. To this end repair can be achieved by vertical lifting of damaged panels without the need to pull up excess flooring from the closest wall to the damaged panels.
  • the present invention provides a vertical joint system for substrates wherein engaged substrates can rotate or pivot relative to each other in either positive or negative (i.e. clockwise or anticlockwise) while maintain engagement
  • vertical joint system for a substrate having an opposed major first and second surfaces comprising:
  • the transversely extending surfaces are configured to enable relative rotation of two engaged substrates by up to 3° while maintaining engagement of the two substrates.
  • the transversely extending surfaces are configured to enable relative rotation of one of the engaged substrates relative to the other by an angle of between 7° to 10° in a direction into a surface of which the substrates are laid while maintaining engagement of the two substrates.
  • a void is created on at least one side of each locking plane by virtue of the non-symmetrical configuration of the first and second joints.
  • At least one of the transversely extending surfaces associated with at least one of the locking planes has a profile of a continuous convex curve.
  • At least one of the locking planes one of the transversely extending surface has a profile of a continuous convex curve and the other has a profile comprising one or more straight lines.
  • each of the transversely extending surfaces has a profile of a continuous convex curve.
  • each joint comprises a protrusion extending in the engagement direction and an adjacent recess formed along a respective side of the substrate; and the transversely extending surfaces are formed on an outermost surface of each protrusion and an inner most surface of each recess.
  • the protrusion of the first joint has a bulbous profile with a neck of reduced width wherein a portion of the transversely extending surface on the protrusion of the first joint is adjacent an outermost side of the neck.
  • the recess of the second joint has a bulbous profile with a neck of reduced width wherein a portion of the transversely extending surface on the recess of the second joint is adjacent an outermost side of the neck.
  • a plane containing a line of shortest distance across the or each neck lies in a plane inclined relative to the major surfaces.
  • the respective lines of shortest distance across each neck are parallel to each other.
  • the lines of shortest distance across each neck are collinear.
  • each transversely extending surface constitutes a portion of a respective inflexion surface.
  • each of the first and second joints comprise a third transversely extending surface wherein the third transversely extending surfaces extend to opposite sides of the third locking plane when in the engaged joint.
  • the inflexion surfaces are configured to enable relative rotation of two engaged substrates by up to 3° while maintaining engagement of the two substrates.
  • the inflexion surfaces are configured to enable relative rotation of one of the engaged substrates relative to the other by an angle of between 7° to 10° in a direction into a surface of which the substrates are laid while maintaining engagement of the two substrates.
  • At least one of the inflexion surfaces associated with each locking plane has a profile of a continuous curve.
  • each of the inflexion surfaces has a profile of a continuous curve.
  • the protrusion of the first joint has a bulbous profile having a neck of reduced width wherein a portion of the inflexion surface on the protrusion of the first joint is formed along an outermost side of the neck.
  • the recess of the second joint has a bulbous profile having a neck of reduced width wherein a portion of the inflexion surface on the recess of the second joint is formed along an outermost side of the neck.
  • a plane containing a line of shortest distance across the or each neck of is inclined relative to the major surfaces.
  • a plane contain a line of shortest distance across the or each neck lies in a plane inclined relative to the major surfaces.
  • the lines of shortest distance across each neck are collinear.
  • a vertical joint system for a substrate having an opposed major first and second surfaces comprising:
  • the locking surfaces are configured to enable relative rotation of two engaged substrates by up to 3° while maintaining engagement of the two substrates.
  • the other of the first male locking surface and the first female locking surface is provided with a transversely extending portion comprising at least one planar surface.
  • the other of the second male locking surface and the second female locking surface is provided with a transversely extending portion comprising at least one planar surface.
  • At least one of the third male locking surface and the third female locking surface is formed with an inflexion.
  • a vertical joint system for a substrate having an opposed major first and second surfaces comprising: male and female joints extending along opposite sides of the substrate, the male and female joints being non-symmetrical such that when the joints are engaged with each other several gaps or spaces are formed between the engaged joints, the male joint comprising a male protrusion extending generally perpendicular from the first major surface toward the second major surface and a male recess formed inboard of the male protrusion; the female joint comprising a female protrusion extending generally perpendicular from the second major surface toward the first major surface and a female recess formed inboard of the female protrusion; wherein the male protrusion having a transversely extending surface on a side distant the male recess being an outer most side of the male joint, the male recess having a transversely extending surface on a side distant the male protrusion being an inner most side of the male joint, the female protrusion having a transversely
  • the male and female joints are each provided with two laterally spaced inflexion surfaces configured to enable the male joint of one substrate to engage the female joint of a second substrate with the two inflexion surfaces of the male joint engaging the two inflexion surfaces of the female joint on inner and outer most sides of each joint to form respective first and second locking planes each of which independently inhibit separation of the engaged joints in a direction parallel to the engagement direction wherein the inflexion surfaces associated with each locking plane lie on both sides of that locking plane.
  • the male joint has a first male locking surface formed on a side of its male protrusion most distant from its female recess, a second male locking surface formed on a side of its female recess most distant from its male protrusion and a third male locking surface being a surface common to the male protrusion and male recess;
  • the female joint having a first female locking surface formed on a side of its female recess most distant from its male protrusion, a second female locking surface formed on a side of its male protrusion most distant from its female recess, and a third female locking surface being a surface common to the female protrusion and female recess; the locking surfaces being configured so that when a male and female joint of two substrates are engaged, the first male and first female locking surfaces engage to form a first locking plane, the second male and second female locking surfaces engage to form a second locking plane, and the third male and third female locking surfaces engage to form a third locking plane located between the first and second locking planes each locking plane inhibiting separation of the engaged joints in
  • the male and female joints are configured to create three locking planes when mutually engaged, each locking plane lying parallel to the engagement direction and inhibiting separation of engaged joints in a direction opposite the engagement direction.
  • a surface covering system comprising a plurality of substrates where in each substrate is provided with a vertical joint system in accordance with the fourth aspect.
  • a semi-floating surface covering system comprising:
  • the quantity of re-stickable adhesive is applied it two or more spaced apart lines extending in a longitudinal direction of the substrate.
  • the quantity of re-stickable adhesive is applied as a continuous strip or bead in at least one of the spaced apart lines.
  • the re-stickable adhesive has a thickness measured perpendicular to the first major surface of between 1 - 6mm.
  • bonding the adhesive comprises applying the adhesive in two or more spaced apart lines extending in a longitudinal direction of the substrate.
  • the bonding comprises applying the adhesive as a continuous strip or bead in at least one of the spaced apart lines onto the first major surface.
  • the method comprises applying the adhesive with uniform thickness of between 2 - 4 mm.
  • a surface covering system comprising a plurality of substrates, each substrate having: opposite first and second major surfaces wherein the first major surface is arranged to face an underlying support to be covered by the system; and a vertical joint system, the vertical joint system comprising: first and second non-symmetrical joints extending along opposite sides of a substrate, the first and second joints configured to enable two or more substrates to engage each other in response to a force applied in an engagement direction which is perpendicular to the major surfaces and to enable engaged substrates to be disengaged by: (a) lifting a first substrate in a direction opposite to the engagement direction to facilitate rotation of adjacent engaged substrates along opposite sides of the first substrate to lie in planes declined from the first substrate; and (b) subsequently applying a force in the engagement direction to the second joints of the engaged substrates.
  • the surface covering system comprises at least one a jack demountably attachable to the first substrate the jack comprising a shaft arranged to pass through a hole formed in the first substrate to bear on the underlying support, the jack being operable to extend the shaft through the hole to thereby lift the first substrate form the underlying support.
  • the vertical joint system is in accordance with any one of the first to fourth and tenth aspects.
  • the surface covering system comprises a quantity of re-stickable adhesive bonded to one or both of the first and second joints and respective release strips overlying the re-stickable adhesive bonded on the joints.
  • the vertical joint system comprises a quantity of re-stickable adhesive bonded to one or both of the first and second joints and respective release strips overlying the re-stickable adhesive bonded on the joints.
  • a substrate for a surface covering system comprising a vertical joint system according to any one of of the first to fourth and tenth aspects.
  • each joint provided with the bonded re-stickable adhesive is provide with a recess for seating the bonded re-stickable adhesive.
  • a vertical joint system for a substrate having an opposed major first and second surfaces comprising:
  • the first and second joints are each provided with two laterally spaced generally convex surfaces configured to enable the first joint of one substrate to engage the second joint of a second substrate with the two generally convex surfaces of the first joint located relative to the two generally convex surfaces of the second joint to form respective first and second locking planes on an innermost and an outermost side of each joint, each locking plane lying parallel to the engagement direction and wherein the generally convex surfaces associated with each locking plane extend laterally toward each other from opposite sides of the locking plane with the generally convex surfaces of the second joint overhanging the generally convex surfaces of the first joint to inhibit separation if the engaged joints, wherein in at least one of the generally convex associated with each locking plane has a curved profile.
  • each recess configured to elastically open to enable a protrusion of a substrate with a like joint system to like to enter and engage the recess.
  • the first and second joints are configured to form a third locking plane intermediate the first and second locking planes.
  • FIGS 1a - 2 illustrate a first embodiment of a vertical joint system 10 (hereinafter referred to as "joint system 10") for a substrate.
  • the substrate is shown in cross section view and in this embodiment is in the form of an elongated rectangular panel 12.
  • the substrate or panel 12 has opposed major first and second surfaces 14 and 16 respectively.
  • Each of the surfaces 14 and 16 are planar surfaces and lie parallel to each other. In one orientation the surface 14 is an exposed surface of the panel 12 while the surface 16 bears against a support surface or structure such as but not limited to a concrete, timber, tile or vinyl floor or timber battens.
  • Joint system 10 comprises a first joint Jm and a non-symmetrical second joint Jf.
  • the first joint Jm can be notionally considered to be a male joint while the second joint Jf can be notionally considered to be a female joint. This designation of the joints will be explained shortly.
  • the joint Jm extends along two adjacent sides and Jf extend along the remaining two adjacent sides.
  • the substrate is an elongated rectangular floor board as shown in Figures 1b and 1c
  • the joint Jm extends along one longitudinal side and an adjacent transverse side
  • the joint Jf extends along the other (i.e. opposite) longitudinal side and the other (i.e. opposite) adjacent transverse side.
  • FIG. 1b illustrates a first joint Jm of a first panel 12a engaged with a second joint Jf of a second panel 12b having an identical joint system 10.
  • the panels 12a and 12b will be referred to in general as "panels 12".
  • first and second joints Jm and Jf are configured to enable two panels 12 (i.e. panels 12a and 12b) to engage each other in response to a pressure or force F (see Figure 5 ) applied in an engagement direction D which is perpendicular to the major surfaces 14 and 16.
  • a pressure or force F applied in an engagement direction D which is perpendicular to the major surfaces 14 and 16.
  • the direction D lies in the vertical plane and more particularly is directed downwardly toward a surface on which the panels are laid.
  • This is equivalent to the joints Jm and Jf engaging by virtue of motion of one joint (or substrate) relative to another in a direction perpendicular to a plane containing the major surfaces.
  • the joint Jm comprises a male protrusion Pm and a male recess Rm
  • the joint Jf comprises a female protrusion Pf and a female recess Rf.
  • the first joint Jm is notionally designated as the male joint by virtue of its protrusion Pm depending from the upper surface 14.
  • the second joint Jf is notionally designated as the female joint by virtue of its recess Rf being configured to receive the protrusion Pm.
  • protrusion P When describing features or characteristic common to all protrusions the protrusions will be referred to in general in this specification in the singular as “protrusion P”, and in the plural as “protrusions P”.
  • recesses When describing features or characteristic common to all recesses the recesses will be referred to in general in this specification in the singular as “recess R”, and in the plural as “recesses R”.
  • joints J When describing features or characteristic common to all joints the joints the joints will be referred to in general in this specification in the singular as “joint J”, and in the plural as “joints J”.
  • the male joint Jm has first, second and third male locking surfaces ML1, ML2 and ML3 respectively (referred to in general as “male locking surfaces ML"). Each of the male locking surfaces ML extends continuously in the general direction perpendicular to the major surfaces.
  • the female joint Jf has first, second and third female locking surfaces FL1, FL2 and FL3 respectively, (referred to in general as “female locking surfaces FL").
  • the male and female locking surfaces collectively and generally are referred to locking surfaces L.
  • Each of the locking surfaces L extends continuously in the general direction perpendicular to the major surfaces.
  • the expression “extend continuously in the general direction perpendicular to the major surfaces” in the context of the male and female locking surfaces is intended to denote that the surfaces extend generally between the opposite major surfaces but continuously so that it extends in one direction only , i.e. always in the direction of the surface 14 to the surface 16 or vice versa and thus does not return upon itself as would be the case for example if the surface included a barb or hook like structure.
  • the male locking surface ML1 extends from an edge of the major surface 14 adjacent the protrusion Pm and down the adjacent side of the protrusion Pm to appoint prior to the surface of the protrusion Pm turning through greater than 45° from the perpendicular to the major surface 14. It will be noted that the locking surface ML1 extends continuously in the general direction perpendicular to the major surface 14, without returning upon itself. Thus every point on the surface ML1 lies on a different horizontal plane. In contrast, in the event that a hook or barb like structure were provided then the corresponding surface would turn upon itself and a plane parallel to the major surface 14 would insect the surface at three different locations.
  • the first and second male and female locking surfaces engage about respective locking planes inhibiting vertical separation of engaged joints Jm and Jf.
  • the third male and female locking planes ML3 and FL3 may also be configured to form a third locking plane.
  • the locking surfaces L in various embodiments comprise inflexion surfaces which in turn may comprise transverse outward extending surfaces which may take the form of convex or cam surfaces, or bulges. The relationship between the locking surfaces L, inflexion surfaces and transverse outward extending surfaces will be apparent in the following description.
  • each of these joints is provided with two laterally spaced apart transversely outward extending surfaces or bulges.
  • the transversely extending surfaces bulges may also be considered and termed as “cam surfaces” as they move across and in contact with each other and at times often with a rolling or pivoting action.
  • the transversely extending surfaces are designated as Cm1 and Cm2 on the first joint Jm and Cf1 and Cf2 on the joint Jf.
  • transversely extending surfaces are smoothly curved convex surfaces.
  • the transversely extending surfaces are of other configurations.
  • a transversely extending surface may be generally convex in that the surface is not continuously or smoothly curved for its entire length but is composed of one or more straight/planar surfaces.
  • the surface Cm1 is formed on a protrusion Pm of a first joint Jm while the surface Cm2 is formed in a recess Rm of joint Jm.
  • the surface Cf2 is formed on a protrusion Pf on the joint Jf while the surface Cf1 is formed in a recess Rf of the second joint Jf.
  • Figure 1b depicts the joints J in an engaged state. As is evident when the joints J are engaged their respective transversely extending surfaces are located relative to each other to form respective first and second locking planes 18 and 20 which inhibit the separation of the engaged joints in a direction opposite the engagement direction D.
  • Each locking plane 18, 20 lies parallel to the engagement direction D.
  • the transversely extending surfaces Cm1, Cf1, Cm2, Cf2 associated with each locking plane extend laterally toward each other from opposite sides of the locking plane with the transversely extending surfaces of the second or female joint (i.e. Cf1 and Cf2) overhanging the transversely extending surfaces of the first or male joint (i.e. Cm1 and Cm2). This inhibits separation of the engaged joints Jm and Jf.
  • at least one of the transversely extending surfaces associated with each locking plane has a curved profile. In this instance the surface Cf1 associated with locking plane 18, and both surfaces Cf2 and Cm2 associated with locking plane 20 have curved profiles.
  • the joints Jm and Jf are also provided with respective planar abutment surfaces 24 and 26.
  • the surfaces 24 and 26 extend from opposite edges of and perpendicular to the major surface 14.
  • the respective surfaces Cm and Cf are configured to create lateral compression forces between the surfaces 24 and 26 maintaining them in contact thus preventing the creation of a gap between joined panels 12a and 12b.
  • the surfaces Cm and Cf co-operate to provide both vertical and horizontal arrestment of panels 12a and 12b when the respective joints Jm and Jf are engaged.
  • the surfaces Cm and Cf enable limited relative rotation between panels 12a and 12b while maintaining engagement of the panels 12. This is depicted in Figures 3a and 3b .
  • Figure 3a shows the panel 12a being rotated by +3° (3° in an anticlockwise direction) relative to the panel 12b.
  • the rotation is facilitated by pivoting at an upper corner of surface 24 on surface 26.
  • This rotates the protrusion Pm within recess Rf and causes the surface cam Cm2 to ride or roll up, but not past the apex of, the surface Cf2.
  • the projection Pf is now effectively pinched between the surfaces Cm2 and Cm3.
  • vertical separation between the substrates 12a and 12b is inhibited by this pinching effect as well as due to the surface Cm1 remaining below surface Cf1.
  • Horizontal arrestment is maintained by virtue of the projections Pm and Pf remaining within respective recesses Rm and Rf.
  • the panel 12a is rotated by -3° (3° in a clockwise direction) relative to panel 12b. This is facilitated by the surface Cm2 rolling down and acting as a pivot or fulcrum point against the side of Joint Jf containing the surface Cm2. This causes separation of the surfaces 24 and 26 creating a gap at the upper major surfaces 14. Nevertheless the panels 12a and 12b remain vertically and horizontally engaged. Vertical arrestment between the substrates is maintained by engagement of the surfaces Cm2 and Cf2; and surfaces Cm1 and Cf1. Horizontal arrestment is provided by the projections Pm and Pf being maintained in their recess Rf and Rm.
  • the relative rotation between the panel 12a and 12b is of great assistance in the installation of the substrates particularly on uneven surfaces such as an undulating concrete floor. This is of great importance to the "do-it-yourself" user although benefits also flow through to the professional layer.
  • an uneven undulating surface on which it is desired to lay a click type floor covering having say a prior art joint system where the tongue is inserted laterally or at an inclined angle into a groove or recess.
  • the undulation may be in the form of a concave recess or shallow in a portion of the surface having a width several times greater than the width of the panels.
  • Figures 4e to 4h (which are schematic only and not drawn to scale) the 3 - 5mm surface undulation which can be accommodated by the prior art system is shown as shaded area 30.
  • Figures 4e and 4f represent an undulation in the form of a rise or hump of 3-5mm
  • Figures 4g and 4h represent an undulation in the form of a fall or hollow of 3-5mm.
  • the + or - 3° rotation available by embodiments of the joint system 10 over a 1m length provide a total possible displacement of 52mm.
  • the +3° rotation is illustrated in Figures 4e and 4f
  • the - 3° rotation is illustrated in Figures 4g and 4h .
  • the surfaces Cm and Cf constitute portions of respective inflexion surfaces, which in turn form portions of respective locking surfaces L.
  • the surface Cm1 constitutes a part of an inflexion surface Im1 (indicated by a phantom line) which in turn forms part of first male locking surface ML1 (indicated by broken dot line) of the protrusion Pm.
  • the inflexion surface Im1 extends generally in the direction D from the abutment surface 24.
  • surface Cm2 constitutes a portion of inflexion surface Im2 (indicated by a phantom line) which in turn forms part of second male locking surface ML2 (indicated by broken dot line).
  • Surface ML2 is formed on the surface of recess Rm and depends generally in the direction D from near a root 32 of the recess Rm.
  • the surface Cf1 constitutes part of the inflexion surface If1 (indicated by a phantom line) which in turn forms part of first female locking surface FL1 (indicated by broken dot line).
  • Surface FL1 depends from abutment surface 26 and in a direction generally parallel to direction D and toward a root 34 of the recess Rf.
  • At least one of the surfaces C and indeed one of inflexion surfaces I in each pair of engaged or related surfaces is formed with a profile of a continuous or smooth curve.
  • surfaces Cm1 and Cf1 and corresponding inflexion surfaces Im1 and If1 are located about or adjacent the first locking plane 18; as are corresponding inflexion surfaces Im1 and If1.
  • the surface Cf1 and the corresponding inflexion surface If1 has a profile of a continuous or smooth curve.
  • the surface Cm1 and corresponding inflexion surface Im1 has a profile which comprises a straight line 36.
  • the straight line is relatively short and forms a small ridge or peak 38 on the surface Cm1 and inflexion surfaces Im1.
  • the ridge 38 presents a relatively small contact area against the inflexion surface If1 minimising the friction between the surfaces and the possibility of sticking during relative rotational motion.
  • the surfaces Cm2 and Cf2; and corresponding inflexion surfaces Im2 and If2 which are located about and form the second locking plane 20 each have a profile of a continuous curve.
  • one of the surfaces Cm2/lm2 or Cf2/lf2 has a profile comprising one or more straight lines.
  • the first and second male locking surfaces ML1 and ML2, and indeed the associated surfaces Cm1 and Cm2 and corresponding inflexion surfaces Im1 and Im2 constitute the extreme (i.e. inner most and outer most) transversely extending and inflexion surfaces of the first (male) joint Jm.
  • the first and second female locking surfaces FL1 and FL2, and indeed the associated surfaces Cf1 and Cf2 and inflexion surfaces If1 and If2 constitute the extreme transversely extending and inflexion surfaces of the second (female) joint Jf.
  • These extreme transversely extending and inflexion surfaces form respective surface pairs which create the extreme (i.e. inner most and outer most) locking planes 18 and 20 in mutually engaged joints Jm and Jf. This is clearly evident from Figure 1b .
  • the surface pairs are in this embodiment: Im1 and If1, or Cm1 and Cf1; and, Im2 and If2, or Cm2 and Cf2.
  • the above described relative rotation between panels incorporating embodiments of the joint system 10 is facilitated by forming one surface in each of the surface pairs as a smoothly or continuously curved surface.
  • the surfaces Cm1 and Im1 form part of an outer peripheral surface 40 of the protrusion Pm.
  • the protrusion Pm has a generally ball like or bulbous profile which depends in the direction D from major surface 14.
  • the outer surface 40 after the inflexion surface Im1 curves toward the recess Rm.
  • the surface 40 is provided with a recess 42 at a location most distant the major surface 14. As shown in Figure 1b , when the joints Jm and Jf are engaged the recess 42 forms a reservoir 44 against a lower most portion of surface 46 of the recess Rf. Save for the recess 42 the end of the protrusion Pm facing the bottom of recess Rf1 is rounded or curved.
  • the first male locking surface ML1 comprises the combination of surface 24 and the inflexion surface Im1.
  • the recess 42/reservoir 44 can also accommodate expansion and contraction in the joints J.
  • the surface 40 after the recess 42 curves around to the recess Rm and incorporates a further inflexion surface Im3.
  • the inflexion surface Im3 is a "shared" surface between the protrusion Pm and recess Rm and includes a surface Cm3.
  • the surface Cm3 transitions the surface 40 from a generally horizontal disposition to a generally vertical disposition.
  • the third male locking surface ML3 is substantially co-extensive with the inflexion surface Im3.
  • the protrusion Pm is formed with a neck 48 having a reduced width in comparison to other portions of the protrusion Pm. It will be seen that the surface Cm1 is adjacent an outer most side of the neck 48. Moreover, a portion of the inflexion surface Im1 adjacent the abutment surface 24 forms the outer most side of the neck 48. Further, a portion of the inflexion surface Im3 forms the opposite side of neck 48. In this embodiment a line 50 of shortest distance across the neck 48 is inclined relative to the major surface 14.
  • the surface 46 leads to and incorporates a further inflexion surface If3 and corresponding co-extensive third female locking surface FL3.
  • the surfaces If3 and FL3 are shared surfaces between recess Rf and protrusion Pf and extends in a direction generally opposite the direction D.
  • the inflexion surface If3 leads to an upper arcuate surface portion 60 of the projection Pf which in turn leads to the surface Cf2 and inflexion surface If2.
  • the inflexion surface If2 leads to the planar surface 62 that extends perpendicular to the major surfaces 14 and 16. This surface in turn leads to inclined surface 64 in turn leads to the major surface 16.
  • the second female locking surface comprises the combination of surfaces If2, 62 and 64.
  • the recess Rf is configured to receive the protrusion Pm. Moreover, the recess Rf is formed with a neck 66. The neck forms a restricted opening into the recess Rf. A line 68 of shortest distance across the neck 66 is in this embodiment inclined relative to the major surfaces 14 and 16. More particularly, the line 66 is inclined at substantially the same angle as the line 50.
  • the protrusion Pf like protrusion Pm is of a ball like or bulbous configuration. Further, similar to the protrusion Pm, the protrusion Pf is formed with a neck 70 of reduced width. A line 72 of shortest distance across the neck 70 is inclined to the major surfaces 14 and 16. However in this embodiment the line 70 is inclined at a different angle to the lines 50 and 68.
  • the shared locking and inflexion surfaces ML3 and FL3; and Im3 and If3 respectively, and indeed their corresponding surfaces Cm3 and Cf3 are located relative to each other to form a third locking plane 74 along which separation of the engaged joints J is inhibited.
  • the third locking plane 74 is parallel with and between the inner and outer most locking planes 18 and 20.
  • the joints Jm and Jf are based in part on anatomical joints of the human body and in particular the hip joint and shoulder joint. These joints Jm and Jf are designed to provide horizontal and vertical strength and allow relative rotational motion to a limited extent without disengagement. In effect the joints Jm and Jf can be considered as ball and socket type joints.
  • the comparison with anatomical joints is enhanced in some embodiments described hereinafter which include a re-stickable flexible, elastic and non curing or non-solidifying adhesive acting between the joints Jm and JF.
  • the adhesive acts in a manner akin to both a tendon allowing relative motion but maintaining connection, and as cartilage providing a cushioning effect. Also when wax is provided on the joints can act as a fluid in the joint providing lubrication.
  • Figure 5a depicts a first panel 12a which has already been laid and a second panel 12b which is in the process of being laid.
  • the panels 12a and 12b are supported on an underlying horizontal surface 90.
  • Panel 12a has a joint Jf which is open and ready for connection with the joint Jm of panel 12b.
  • Panel 12b is laid adjacent panel 12a with the joint Jm resting on the joint Jf.
  • the edge of panel 12b provided with the joint Jf is simply resting on the surface 90 so that there is a small angle of approximately 1°-3° between the panels 12a and 12b.
  • a downward pressure or force F is applied in the direction perpendicular to the major surfaces 14 and directed toward the underlying surface 90.
  • This pressure or force applies compression to the protrusion Pm and tension the recess Rf which depending on the material from which the panels 12 are made will result in one or both of the protrusion Pm compressing and the recess Rf opening or widening so that the surfaces Cm 1 and Cm3 can slide past the surfaces Cf1 and Cf3.
  • the provision of wax on the joints Jm and Jf assist this sliding action. This results in the protrusion Pm sliding through the neck 66 into recess Rf.
  • the joints in this embodiment are configured so that the respective surfaces Cm and Cf which pass each other do so at slightly different times.
  • the surface Cm1 passes the surface Cf1 marginally before the surface Cm3 passes the surface Cf3.
  • the remainder of protrusion Pm is drawn into the recess Rf by an over centre or snap action. This is due to the relative configuration of the inflexion surfaces and the release of compression in the protrusion Pm after the surfaces Cm1 and Cm3 pass through the surfaces Cf1 and Cf3.
  • the respective necks 48 and 66 lay one within the other.
  • Figure 5d illustrates the joints Jm and Jf marginally before full engagement.
  • the relative downward motion of the panel 12b is halted and the joint fully engaged when the projection Pm hits the arrestment surface 58 on the recess Rf, as shown in Figure 5e .
  • the reservoir 46 is formed between the recess 42 and the arrestment surface 58.
  • the surfaces Cm1, Cm2, Cm3 on the male joint Jm lay underneath the corresponding surfaces Cf1, Cf2, Cf3 on the female joint.
  • joints Jm and Jf to enable both positive and negative relative rotation without disengagement is able to accommodate for uneven surfaces. Additionally the joints Jm and Jf facilitate self alignment of adjacent panels 12. These features substantially simplify the installation to the extent that a very average home handyperson can easily install panel incorporating embodiments of the joint system 10.
  • Figure 5f shows a panel 12b being roughly positioned for subsequent engagement with panel 12a and prior to the application of any downward force or pressure to engage the panels.
  • the panels 12a and 12b are skewed relative to each other.
  • the protrusion Pm sits on top of recess Rf.
  • the corresponding view in cross section is as shown in Figures 5b and 5j with the joint Jm of panel 12b lying on top of the recess Rf of panel 12a.
  • the joints are laterally spaced apart. In between, the degree of separation between joints Jm and Jf varies linearly.
  • a downward pressure or force F is applied at a location between locations 85 and BB to commence engaging the joints and panels.
  • This force is transmitted between the panels for the length along which they are in contact, i.e. essentially between locations 85 and BB.
  • the protrusion Pf is to the left of the apex of protrusion Pf and at least partially overhanging the recess Rf. Also it will be recognised that due to the curvature of surfaces Cm3 and Cf3 there will be a natural tendency for the protrusion Pf to be drawn into the recess Rf.
  • floors are often under dynamic tensile and compressive load due to variations in temperature and humidity. They are also under static load from furniture or other household items. Should the tensile load exceed the load carrying capacity of the joints one or both of the protrusions Pm and Pf may fracture or shear. This has several effects. It will release tension in the immediate vicinity of the floor. In addition it will result in a horizontal separation along the fractured panel producing a visible gap. Further depending on the prevailing conditions and circumstance there may also be a vertical displacement of one of the adjacent panels resulting in a height difference.
  • Figure 5l illustrates a floor composed of plurality of panels 12. Two of the panels 12a and 12b are being removed and replaced. Assume that there is tension between the panels 12 as described in the preceding paragraph. Once the two panels 12a and 12b are removed leaving a gap 31 there is naturally a release of tension in the floor in the area of the gap 31. Consequently, panels 12 adjacent the gap will shift away from each other as shown by the arrows 33 in Figure 5m . The effect of this is to produce a widening of the gap 31.
  • FIG. 5n This widening is illustrated in Figure 5n , and in enlarged view in Figure 5o , and occurs as an additional longitudinal band 35 along a line of abutment which previously existed between panels 12a and 12b prior to their removal. This widening does not only occur within the gap 31. There will also be a separation or at least an increase in tension between remaining adjacent panels along a continuation of the band 35 as there are now fewer panels to accommodate the tension.
  • Figure 5p and corresponding enlarged view of Figure 5q illustrate the effect of replacing the panels with panels having conventional lay down or horizontal locking systems. New panels 12a1 and 12b1 are inserted into the gap 31 and engaged with adjacent panels on either side. However due to the widening of the gap 31, the new installed panels 12a1 and 12b1 cannot be fully engaged with each other. The widening may only be in the order of 0.5 to 2mm but this is sufficient to be easily visible on a floor.
  • Figure 5t and enlarged view Figure 5u shows the result in using panels or substrates incorporating joint systems in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. That is assume all of the panels 12 in Figs 5l-5s are provided with say joint system 10. When panels 12a and 12b are removed there is still a widening of gap 31 by creation of band 35. New panel 12a1 is installed and engaged with panels 12c and 12d. Now panel 12b1 is inserted with say its female joint Jf beneath the male joint Jm of panel 12a1 and the male joint Jm of panel 12b1 lying on top of the female joint Jf of adjacent panels 12e and 12f.
  • Embodiments of the present invention can operate in essentially the same manner as described above with reference to Figures 5l-5u but in "reverse" to push the gap open and mechanically engage all adjacent panels 12 to reinstate full structural integrity. Again this will be effective for gap of up to about the lateral extend of surface Cf1 which may range to about 2mm.
  • Embodiments of the joint system enable a warped panel to be aligned and pulled in having the effect of flattening the warp or twist in the panel provided the panel to which it is being engaged is flat and not itself warped or twisted.
  • a modified compactor can be used to apply the force or pressure to engage the joints Jm and Jf.
  • the compactor is envisaged as being in the form similar to those used for compacting sand prior to laying pavers, but having a soft smooth non scratch base lining.
  • the lining may comprise but is not limited to a rubber, foam, felt, or cardboard sheet.
  • FIG. 6a - 9f depict in sequence various steps in the removal and replacement of a damaged panel.
  • the removal and replacement is facilitated by use of an extraction system which comprises in combination a jack 92 shown in Figures 7a and 7b and a wedge tool 94 shown in Figures 8a and 8b .
  • the jack 92 is a simple hand screw jack which is applied to a panel being removed.
  • the screw jack 92 is provided with an elongated threaded shaft 96 provided at one end with a cross bar handle 98.
  • the thread of the shank 96 is engaged within a threaded boss 100 formed on a clamp plate 102.
  • the plate 102 is of a square shape with the boss 100 located centrally in the plate 102.
  • the boss 100 overlies a through hole in the plate 102 through which the shaft 96 can extend.
  • Distributed about the plate 102 are four through holes 104 for receiving respective fastening screws 106.
  • the wedge tool 94 comprises a wedging block 108 coupled at one end to a handle 110.
  • the wedging block 108 is formed with a base surface 112 which in use will bear against a surface on which the panels 12 are installed, and an opposite surface 114 which lies beneath and contacts a major surface 16 of the panel 12 adjacent the panel being removed.
  • the surface 114 includes the relatively inclined portion 116 and a parallel land 118.
  • the inclined portion 116 extends from a leading edge 120 of the wedge block 108 toward the handle 110.
  • the surface 116 is inclined relative to the surface 112, while land 118 lies parallel to the surface 112 and is formed contiguously with the surface 116.
  • the handle 110 is bent so that a free end 122 of the handle 110 lies parallel with but laterally displaced from a distal end 124 which is connected with the wedge block108.
  • Figure 6a depicts an area of flooring including a damaged panel 12b which is connected along each side with adjacent panels 12.
  • the three side by side interlocked panels 12a, 12b and 12c are each provided with an embodiment of the joint system 10 and cover a surface 90 as shown in Figure 6b .
  • the central panel 12b has a major surface 14 which is damaged by virtue of a scratch, gash or water damage 126. It should also be understood that unless one of panels 12a or 12c is immediately adjacent a wall then other panels 12 will be interlocked with each of panels 12a and 12c.
  • a drill 130 (see Figure 6d ) is used to drill a hole 128 through the panel 12b for each jack 92 used in the extraction process.
  • the hole 128 is formed of a diameter sufficient to enable the passage of shank 96.
  • the length of the panel 12b being removed dictates the number of jacks 92 that may be required.
  • extraction can be effected by the use of one jack 92 whereas others may require two or more jacks.
  • two jacks 92 are used as shown in Figure 6c , but for ease of description the extraction process refers to only one of the jacks 92.
  • the clamp plate 102 Upon completion of the hole 128, the clamp plate 102 is placed on the panel 12b with its boss 100 overlying the hole 128hole as shown in Figure 6e .
  • the plate 102 is fixed to the panel 12b by way of the four self tapping screws 106 that pass through corresponding holes 104. This is illustrated in Figure 6f .
  • the screws may be screwed in by a DIY battery operated screw driver or using a manual screwdriver.
  • the jack 92 is operated to lift the damaged panel 12b vertically upward by a distance sufficient to effect a negative rotation between the damaged panel 12b and the adjacent adjoining panels 12a and 12c.
  • the negative rotation is in the order of 7° - 10°. This is explained with particular reference to Figure 6h which shows an angle ⁇ 1 between the major surfaces 14 of panels 12a and 12b; and an angle ⁇ 2 between major surfaces 14 of panels 12b and 12c. Prior to lifting of the panel 12d, it should be understood that the angles ⁇ 1 and ⁇ 2 will be 180° assuming that the surface 90 is flat. Formation of a negative angle between adjoined panels 12 is indicative of the angle ⁇ 1 exceeding 180°.
  • angles ⁇ 1 and ⁇ 2 exceed 180° during the disengagement is equated to the negative rotation of the panels during this process. For example if angle ⁇ 1 is say 187° then the relative negative rotation between panels 12a and 12b is 7°.
  • the jack 92 is operated to lift the panel 12b vertically upwards to a location where the negative rotation between the panel 12b and adjacent panels 12a and 12c is in the order of 7° to 10°. This is the position shown in Figure 6h and 9d . In this position, there is partial dislocation of the joints Jm and Jf between panels 12a and 12b. This partial dislocation arises from the surface Cm1 rolling over surface Cf1 with the surface 38 snapping past the apex of surface Cf1 and is denoted by an audible "clunk". Notwithstanding this dislocation the panels remain engaged due to the pinching of protrusion Pf between surfaces Cm2 and Cm3.
  • the jack 92 can be provided with a scale to give an installer an indication of the when the negative rotation is in the order of 7° to 10°.
  • the scale could comprise for example a coloured band on the shank 96 which becomes visible above the boss 100 when shank has been screwed down to lift the panel sufficiently to create the above mentioned negative rotation.
  • Several bands could be provided on the shank for panels of different thickness.
  • Figure 9a illustrates the panels 12a and 12b prior to operation of the jack 92. This equates the relative juxtaposition of the panels shown in Figures 6a, 6b , and 6d-6g .
  • Figure 9b illustrates the joint Jm of panel 12b and joint Jf of panel 12a at relative rotation of approximately -2°.
  • the abutment surfaces 24 and 26 commence to separate with the surface Cm1 and in particular the ridge 38 commencing to ride up the surface Cf1.
  • the surface 40 of projection Pm commences to lift from the surface 46 of recess Rf.
  • the surface Cm2 rides down the surface Cf2.
  • Figure 9c shows the effect of continued lifting of the panel 9b to a position where the relative negative rotation between the panels 12a and 12b is about 5°.
  • the separation between abutment surfaces 24 and 26 is more pronounced and the surface Cm1 and in particular ridge 38 reside higher on the surface Cf1 but not yet disengaged from the surface Cf1.
  • There is an increase in the separation between the surfaces 40 and 46 and the surface Cm2 is now seated firmly in a deepest portion of the concavity in inflexion surface If2. This is increasing pressure /force exerted by: surface Cm2 on the neck of protrusion Pf; and, surface Cm1 on surface Cf1.
  • the application of a downward pressure or force on the panel 12a results in one or both of: compressing the projection Pf; or, opening the neck of recess Rm formed by the surfaces Cm3 and Cm2, to enable the projection Pf to escape the recess Rm. Wax in the joint will reduce friction and now assist in the disengagement of the joints. Now the panel 12a is free to fall back to the surface 90 as shown in Figure 9f and Figure 6i . Thus at this point in time the panels 12a and 12b are fully disengaged.
  • the panel 12b is held above surface 90 by the jack 92. To continue the replacement process the panel 12b is lowered back to the surface 90 by unscrewing shaft 96 from the boss 100 of the clamp plate 102. An installer next grips and lifts the joint Jm of panel 12b to insert the wedge tool 94 between the disengaged joints of the panels 12a and 12b and push it to a position where the land 118 of surface 114 is in contact with the major surface 16 of panel 12c and inside of the joints Jm and Jf. This is shown in Figure 6j .
  • Disengagement of the panel 12b from the panel 12c is now effected by initially rotating the panel 12b by about -7° to -10° to effect a disengagement of the surface Cm1 of panel 12c from the surface Cf1 in the joint Jf of panel 12b.
  • the wedge tool 94 is configured to assists the installer in achieving this rotation. This is also depicted in Figure 6j .
  • the wedge block 108 is under the under panel 12c slightly inboard of its joint Jm, and the panel 12b is rotated in the anti-clockwise direction toward the handle 110, the panel 12b will rotate or pivot by 7° to 10° prior to or by the time it abuts the handle 110.
  • the reaching of this position is ordinarily denoted by an audible "clunk" as the surface Cm1 passes from below to above surface Cf1.
  • This juxtaposition of the joints Jm and Jf is as shown in Figure 9d .
  • the ability to easily remove and replace only the panels 12 which are damaged instead of peeling back the entire floor has enormous practical, commercial and environmental benefits. These are summarised as follows: The panels can be easily replaced by handypersons of limited skill and with very rudimentary and low cost equipment. This avoid the need for hiring professional installers
  • the repair is also relatively clean as there is no need to chisel or cut out panels or parts thereof.
  • the ground floor of a house has three bed rooms a hallway, kitchen and family room all cover by wooden floor panels of the same appearance forming a continuous floor.
  • the entire housing furniture selection and decor is often selected to match with the floor.
  • the entire ground level floors may need to be replaced. Indeed this occurred on a large scale flooring a bass storm in Perth, Western Australia in March 2010.
  • a much more common trigger for this is the spilling overtime of water from refrigerators with water dispensers. Having a small supply of replacement panel at hand avoids the need for full scale floor replacement.
  • a new and growing market for wooden flooring is that uses a relative cheap and plentiful material for the panel and using a bubble jet printer to print a pattern for example the wood grain of exotic trees on the upper major surface 12.
  • the joint 10 depicted in Figures 1-9f is representative of one of a large number of possible embodiments. A small selection of other possible embodiments will now be described. In describing these embodiments the same referencing system will be used as for the joint 10 however each specific embodiment of a joint will be demarcated by the addition of the alphabetical suffix e.g. "a, b, c, ##.
  • inflexion surfaces Im2 and If2 in the joint system 10a are shallower than the corresponding surfaces in the joint system 10 resulting in a smaller overlap in the surfaces Cf2 and Cm2 when the joints Jm and Jf of adjacent panels 12 are engaged.
  • the joint system 10a may be used in the same circumstances and with the same materials with the system 10. However due to the slightly shallower depth of the inflexion surfaces I, the joint system 10a is suited to more rigid substrates such as but not limited to bamboo where the compressibility of the projections Pm and Pf2 when passing through the necks of the corresponding recesses Rm and Rf may be limited.
  • Figures 11a to 11d depict a further embodiment of the joint system 10b provided on opposite sides of the substrate 12.
  • the substantive differences between the joint systems 10b and 10 lie in: (a) the configuration of the immediate inflexion surfaces Im3 and If3; and, (b) the removal of the concave recess 42 from the projection Pm and the formation of a similar recess 42f on the surface 58 of recess Rf.
  • the inflexion surfaces Im3 and If3 are “angularised” in that they are not smoothly or continuously curved for their entire length.
  • the surface Cm3 (which is part of the inflexion surface Im3) is provided with a narrow ridge 140 similar to the ridge 38 depicted on the protrusion Pm of joint system 10.
  • the inflexion surface Im3 is provided with a "V" shaped gear tooth 142 extending toward the root 52 of the recess R.
  • the surface Cf3 is sharpened to form a narrow ridge 144.
  • the apex 145 of gear tooth 142 bears against surface Cf3 below the ridge 144 when joints Jm and Jf are engaged.
  • the purpose and effect of the variation in configuration of the inflexion surfaces Im3 and If3, and in particular the provision of the gear 142 and variations in the configuration of the surfaces Cf3 and Cm3 is to allow greater relative rotation of up to 5° to 10°or more of between joined while maintaining engagement to assist in installation on undulating surfaces.
  • This is shown in Figures 11c and 11d .
  • the ability to increase the degree of rotation is most pronounced in the positive or upward direction of the male jointed panel 12b relative to panel 12a. This is facilitated by the surface Cm3 bearing against the surface of protrusion Pf in the recess Rf after the apex 145 of gear tooth 142 has passed over the ridge 144. As a consequence the protrusion Pf remains pinched between the surfaces Cm3 and Cm2 thus maintaining horizontal and vertical engagement.
  • the joint system 10b enables a panel to ramp up relative to an adjacent horizontal panel to say a raised cross-over or floor trim piece.
  • FIGS 12a and 12b depict a further embodiment of joint system 10c incorporated in a substrate 12.
  • the joint systems 10c and 10 differ in substance in relation to their aspect ratios.
  • Joint system 10c may be used for substrates of smaller thickness than for joint system 10.
  • the male and female joints Jm and Jf of joint system 10c are shallower but broader. This is most notable by a visual comparison between the protrusion Pm and recess Rf of the joint systems 10c and 10.
  • the protrusion Pm is broader and provided with a flatter bottom surface 42 as is the recess Rf.
  • the broadening of the protrusion Pm also is the effect of sharpening the profile of the Cm3.
  • the method of operation and effect of the joint system 10c is the same as for joint system 10.
  • the remains three vertical locking planes 18, 20 and 74 and respective substrates 12 are able to rotate by up to 3 degrees in opposite directions relative to each other.
  • Figures 13a and 13b depict a further embodiment of the joint system 10d applied to a substrate 12.
  • the substantive differences between the joint system 10d and 10 lies in the depth and relative disposition of the intermediate inflexion surfaces Im3 and If3; and the width of the protrusions P and recesses R.
  • the inflexion surfaces Im3 and If3 are shallower and are inclined more towards the horizontal i.e. toward a plane containing major surfaces 14 and 16.
  • the male and female joints Jm and Jf are engaged only inner and outer locking planes 18 and 20 are created; the third locking plane 74 which arises with the earlier embodiments of the joint system being absent.
  • the joint system 10d there is no point on the inflexion surface Im3 which is vertically below and laterally inside of a point on the inflexion surface If3. Also the protrusions P and recesses R are broader in the joint system 10d. This provides greater horizontal shear strength along shear planes S1 and S2 which pass through the protrusions Pm and Pf parallel to the major surfaces 14 and 16. This is beneficial with panels of smaller thickness (e.g. say 7mm-3mm) which are otherwise susceptible to shearing along planes S1 and S2. Notwithstanding this, the joint system 10d operates in substantially the same manner as the joint systems 10-10c in that it is a vertical system and adjoining substrates 12 can to rotate by 3 degrees relative to each other without disengagement.
  • the joint system 10e comprises a right angle rebate 148.
  • the protrusion Pm is more symmetrical than in joint system 10 and is provided with a central slot 150 which extends in a direction perpendicular to the major surfaces 14 and 16. Additionally surface 40 of the protrusion Pm is flat rather than arcuate.
  • the slot 150 provides the protrusion Pm with a degree of resilience. This resilience is not in order to effect engagement of the protrusion Pm with recess Rf but rather provides resilience to assist in the rotation of the protrusion Pm within the recess Rf.
  • the protrusion Pf is more rounded than the corresponding protrusion Pf in system 10 and is also provided with a central slot 152 which extends parallel to the slot 150. Slot 152 also provides resilience to the protrusion Pf to assist in its rotation within the socket Rm.
  • Surface 58 at the root 34 of recess Rf is flat and lies parallel with the major surfaces 14 and 16 and also parallel with the surface 40.
  • a square shoulder 154 is formed between the inflexion surface If1 and side surface 26 on the female joint Jf. Shoulder 154 engages the rebate 148 when the joints Jf and Jm are engaged as shown in Figure 14b .
  • a further difference in the configuration of joint system 10e is the provision of an inclined surface 156 between the inflexion surface Im2 and the bevelled surface 56 at the joint Jm.
  • the joint system 10e has three vertical locking planes 18, 20 and 74 as in the joint system 10.
  • a space 158 is created between the surfaces 40 and 58 when the male joint Jm is engaged with a female joint Jf. This space may be used in the same manner as the void 44 shown in Figure 1b for the collection of debris.
  • Projections P and recesses R in the joint system 10f are squatter than those in the joint system 10. This provides improved shear strength as in the joint system 10d.
  • two locking planes 18 and 20 are created by the surface Cf1 and Cm1; and Cf2 and Cm2 respectively.
  • a "quasi" intermediate locking plane is formed by the provision of planar surfaces 25 and 27 on protrusions Pm and Pf respectively.
  • the surfaces 25 and 27 are perpendicular to the major surface 14.
  • the joints Jm and Jf are engaged the surfaces 25 and 27 abut each other. This provides frictional locking against relative motion between the joints Jm and Jf in the vertical plane. This provides an effect similar to but to less degree than the locking plane 74 in the joint system 10f.
  • Vertical arrestment between the joined substrates 12 is created by the abutment of the surface 40 of projection Pm with the surface 58 in the recess Rf.
  • Figures 16a and 16b depict a further joint system 10g which is suited to panels made of plastics materials such a vinyl or other relatively soft/flexible materials.
  • various inflexion surfaces or transversely extending surfaces are formed comprising one or more planar surfaces.
  • the projection Pm in the joint system 10f comprises a first locking surface ML1 and having abutment surface 24 and contiguous inflexion surface Im1.
  • Extending from the surface Cm3 is an inclined planar surface 164 which leads to a planar surface 52 of the recess Rm.
  • the surface 52 lies parallel to the major surfaces 14.
  • the planar surface 164 and the surface Cm3 together form intermediate inflexion surface Im3 and third male locking surface ML3. This is provided with a sharp corner where the surface 164 meets the surface Cm3.
  • the innermost surface ML2 of the male joint Jm includes an angular inflexion surface Im2 and planar surface 56.
  • the inflexion surface Im2 comprises contiguous planar surfaces 166 and 168 which are inclined relative to each other to form a generally concave but angular or sharp corner in the recess Rm.
  • the inflexion surface Im2 further comprises another planar surface 170 which extends perpendicular to the major surfaces 14 and 16. This surface then joins bevelled surface 56 leading to the major surface 16.
  • the female joint Jf has first female locking surface FL1 comprising abutment surface 26 which extends perpendicular to major surface 14 and contiguous inflexion surface If1.
  • Inflexion surface If1 is composed of planar surface172 which slopes toward the recess Rf, planar surface 174 which is parallel to surface 26 and a smoothly curved concave surface 176 which leads to the surface 58 at the root of recess Rf.
  • the surfaces 172, 174 and upper portion of surface 176 together form a transversely extending surface in the form of a generally convex cam Cf1.
  • Surface 58 at the root 34 of recess Rf is planar and parallel to the major surface 14.
  • the female joint Jf comprises an intermediate surface If3 which may be considered to be in inverted form of the inflexion surface Im3.
  • the inflexion surface If3 comprises a planar surface 180 which is inclined in a direction toward major surface 14, and a contiguous smoothly curved surface Cf3.
  • the surface Cf3 joins with a planar surface 60 parallel to the major surface 14.
  • the outermost side of the female joint Jf in system 10f is formed with a second female locking surface FL2 having smoothly curved surface Cf2 which leads to a planar surface 62 and subsequently to inwardly bevelled surface 64 leading to the major surface 16.
  • the smoothly curved surface Cm1 is able to roll against the surface of the joint Jf while on the locking plane 20, the arcuate surface Cf2 is able to roll on the surface of the male joint Jm. Also due to the non-symmetrical configuration of the joints Jm and Jf voids or spaces are created between the engaged surface to further assist in the relative rotation between joints and allow for expansion.
  • Figures 17a and 17b depict a further joint system 10h which is based on and very similar to the joint system 10f.
  • the system 10h is of the same general shape and configuration of the system 10g with the substantive differences being the omission of the slot 163 and a reduced length in the bevelled surfaces 56 and 64.
  • This reduced length is a function of the thickness of the substrate 12h which is less than that of the substrate 12g.
  • the substrate 12g incorporating the joint system 10g may have a thickness in the order of 5.2mm, while the substrate 12h incorporating the joint system 10h may have a thickness in the order of 3.5mm.
  • Figures 17c to 17e illustrate a further feature of embodiments of the joint system relating to the ability to manufacture the system and panels of varying thickness using a single set of tools.
  • Figure 17a and 17b illustrate the joint system 10h formed in panels 12 of a nominal thickness of say 3mm.
  • the nominal thickness of 3mm is marked as the innermost horizontal lines 14a and 16a. These lines indicate the major surfaces 14 and 16 of a panel 12.
  • the next adjacent pair of lines 14b and 16b illustrates the major surfaces of the panel 12 if it were made to a thickness of 3.5mm.
  • Figure 17e provides perspective for panels 12 made to these different thicknesses.
  • the ability to manufacture joint systems on panels of varying thickness with a single set of cutting tools provides benefits over the prior art.
  • a further feature of this is that notwithstanding the variation in thickness of the panels 12 it will be seen that the physical size of the joints Jm and Jf and the interlocking surfaces remains constant. Thus the strength of the engagement between panels is not compromised by a variation in the thickness of the panels.
  • joint system 10i may be viewed as a modification of the joint system 10e but with the following differences: broadening of the respective protrusions P and recesses R; a marginal inclining of the surfaces 24 and 26 from the perpendicular of major surface 14; a flattening of a portion of the inflexion surface If1 between an upper end of surface Cf1 and surface 154; and extension of the bevelled surface 56 so as to extend directly from the Cm2 to the major surface 16. It will be further noted from a comparison between Figures 18b and 14b that a space 82 now exists between the planar surfaces 40 and 52, and there is a space between the surfaces 154 and 148 in the engaged joints Jm and Jf.
  • the joint system 10i operates in the same way as the previously described joint systems in terms of engagement and disengagement and the rolling action between the joints.
  • Figures 19a and 19b depict a further embodiment of the joint system 10j.
  • the protrusions Pm and Pf are each provided with respective slots 163 and 152 similar to that of the joint system 10e.
  • the surfaces Cm1, Cm2, Cm3, Cf1 and Cf3 are each smoothly curved.
  • the surface Cf2 on the female joint Jf is angular, being composed of a plurality of contiguous planar surfaces. Nevertheless, as shown in Figure 19b , when the joints Jm and Jf are engaged the locking surfaces ML1 and FL1; ML2 and FL2; and ML3 and FL3 create three locking planes 18, 20 and 74 as herein before described.
  • each of the outermost locking planes 18 and 20 one of the two respective engaged surfaces is continuously curved. Specifically in locking planes 18 and 20 surfaces Cm1 and Cm2 are continuously curved. This maintains the ability of the joints to roll provided the positive and negative relative rotation and the ability to disengage and thus move and replace a damaged substrate in an identical manner as described in relation to the earlier embodiments.
  • the joint system 10j further includes surfaces 146 and 154 similar to the subsystem 10e but in this instance these surfaces are inclined at an acute internal angle relative to the major surface 14. Further the projection Pm and recess Rf are relatively configured to form a relatively large void or space 190 between surfaces 40 and 58.
  • the slots 152, 163 provide an internal suspension system enabling compression of the protrusions Pm and Pf to assist in the rolling motion.
  • Figures 20a and 20b depict a further embodiment of the joint system 10k.
  • the protrusion Pm is formed with continuously curved surfaces Cm1, Cm2 and Cm3.
  • the protrusion Pf is formed with angular surfaces Cf2 and Cf3, surface Cf1 comprises contiguous planar surfaces 191, 192 and 193.
  • Surface Cf3 comprises contiguous planar surfaces 194, 195 and 196.
  • the surfaces 191 and 194 each lead to the surface 60 of protrusion Pf which lies parallel with major surface 14.
  • Both surfaces 192 and 195 extend perpendicular to the major surface 14 while surfaces 193 and 196 are inclined toward each other surface 193 leads to an oppositely inclined surface 162 which in turn leads to bevelled surface 64 which is cut inwardly but substantially parallel to surface 193.
  • the surface 64 leads to the major surface 16.
  • the route 34 of the recess Rf is formed with planar surface 46 which lies parallel to major surface 14, and to oppositely and outwardly inclined surfaces 197 and 198.
  • Surface 198 leads to an inwardly inclined surface 199 which in turn is formed contiguously with planar surface 200.
  • Surface 200 lies perpendicular to the major surface 14 and joins with surface 154.
  • the combination of surfaces 196 and 197; and surfaces 198 and 199 form respective concave recesses for seating the surfaces Cm1 and Cm3 as shown clearly in Figure 20b .
  • the protrusion Pm is also formed with a planar surface 205 that lies perpendicular to the major surface 14 and extends between the surface Cm1 and the surface 148.
  • the surfaces 205 and 204 are spaced apart while the respective surfaces 148 and 154; and 26 and 24 are in abutment.
  • Figures 21a and 21b depict a further embodiment of the joint system 101.
  • the protrusion Pm has a male locking surface ML1 which, starting from the major surface 14 is initially provided with a small bevelled surface 146 similar to that shown in the joints 10e and 10i and extends downwardly ending in a smoothly curved surface Cm 1.
  • the first male locking surface ML1 also comprises an inflexion surface Im1 which includes a planar portion 220 and extends from the bevelled surface 146 toward the surface Cm1.
  • the third inflexion surface Im3 and corresponding third male locking plane ML3 on a side of protrusion Pm opposite the inflexion surface IM1 is smoothly curved and leads to a planar surface 52 in the root 32 of recess Rm.
  • the surface 52 lies parallel to the major surface 14.
  • the joint Jm is formed with a second male locking surface ML2 which comprises a smoothly curved inflexion surface IM2 which subsequently leads to bevelled surface 56.
  • the first female locking surface FL1 in the joint Jf comprises a short bevelled surface 155 commencing from the major surface 14 followed by a planar surface portion 222 which extends perpendicular to the major surface 14.
  • Surface 222 leads to inflexion surface If1 which is smoothly curved and extends toward a root 34 of recess Rf.
  • the root 34 is provided with a planar surface 46 that extends parallel to the major surface 14.
  • the surface 46 in turn leads to third inflexion surface If3 which is smoothly curved and corresponds with the third female locking surface FL3.
  • Distal surface 60 of female protrusion Pf extends between the second and third female locking surfaces FL2 and FL3 and lies in a plane parallel to major surface 14.
  • the second female locking surface FL2 extends continuously toward the major surface 16 beyond the inflection surface IF2 in a smoothly curved manner and subsequently leads to bevelled surface 64.
  • each of the respective male and female locking surfaces and the corresponding inflexion surfaces engage about respective locking planes 18, 20 and 74.
  • a bead B (shown in phantom line) of adhesive of the type described in detail shortly can be accommodated in the mouth of the slot 158. This provides additional vertical locking between engaged panels as well as cushioning.
  • Figure 22 depicts a further embodiment of the joint system 10m with joints Jf and Jm depicted on separate but engaged panels 12a and 12b.
  • the joint system 10m is similar to the joint system 10 depicted in Figures 1a - 2 with the main differences residing in the configuration of the surfaces Cm3 and If3 on the male protrusion Pf.
  • the surface Cf3 extends further in the transverse outward direction so as to hook under the surface Cf3 when the joints Jm and Jf are engaged. This provides greater resistance to vertical separation along the intermediate plane 74 in comparison to that of the joint system 10.
  • the surface Cf3 is provided with small ridge or peak 38' similar in configuration and effect to the peak 38 on the surface Cm1.
  • the joint Jm is particularly well, but not exclusively, suited for use with panels or substrates made of softer material.
  • Figure 23a and 23b depict a further embodiment of the joint system 10n.
  • the joint system 10m differs from the joint system 10 depicted in Figures 1 - 3b by the provision of additional of three concave recesses, namely concave recesses 42b, which is formed in the root of the recess Rf; concave recess 42c which is formed in the root of the recess Rm; and concave recess 42d formed in the protrusion Pf.
  • the recess 42d is located so that when joints Jm and Jf are engaged the recesses 42 and 42b face each other to form a substantially cylindrical or elliptical void 230.
  • the concave recesses 42c and 42d are located to face each other when the joints Jm and Jf are engaged to form a further substantially cylindrical void 232.
  • the void 230 may be used as a dam or void to collect dirt and other debris generated during the laying of substrates 12 provided with the joint system Jm.
  • one of the recesses 42 and 42b may be provided with a pre-laid re-stickable flexible adhesive and configured to extend into the other of the recess 42 and 42b.
  • re-stickable adhesive throughout the specification and claims is intended to mean adhesive which is capable of being able to be removed and re-adhered, does not set or cure to a solid rigid mass and maintains long term (e.g. many years) characteristics of flexibility, elasticity and stickiness.
  • the characteristic of being re-stickable is intended to mean that the adhesive when applied to a second surface can be subsequently removed by application of a pulling or shearing force and can subsequently be reapplied (for example up to ten times) without substantive reduction in the strength of the subsequent adhesive bond.
  • the adhesive provides a removable or non-permanent fixing.
  • the characteristics of flexibility and elasticity require that the adhesive does not solidify, harden or cure but rather maintains a degree of flexibility, resilience and elasticity.
  • Such adhesives are generally known as fugitive or "booger” glues and pressure sensitive hot melt glues. Examples of commercially available adhesives which may be incorporated in embodiments of the present invention includes, but are not limited to: SCOTCH-WELDTM Low Melt Gummy Glue; and GLUE DOTSTM from Glue Dots International of Wisconsin.
  • both recesses 42 and 42b may be provided with the re-stickable adhesive so as to engage each other when the joints Jm and Jf are engaged.
  • one or both of the concave recesses 42c and 42d may be provided with a bead of re-stickable adhesive of the type described hereinafter.
  • the adhesive is configured in a bead so as to extend into the other of the recesses 42c and 42d.
  • the adhesive material while still in the form of a bead may be formed of a smaller thickness or depth.
  • the adhesive material has multiple effects. Firstly, it acts to assist in minimising the possibility of vertical or horizontal separation during the normal service life of the substrates 12. In addition the adhesive may act as a seal against moisture passing either from the major surfaces 14 through a joint to the major surface 16, or in a reverse direction in the event of moisture seeping up through a surface in which the substrates 12 are laid.
  • the provision of the re-stickable adhesive however does not interfere with the ability to remove and replace one or more damaged substrates 12 due to the unique removal system described herein above. As the adhesive is re-stickable and in particular does not set or cure, the removal system remains effective for the removal of one or more panels 12 without damage to the joint of adjoining adjacent panels 12 which are not removed.
  • the locking surfaces ML3 and FL3 are each provided with planar surfaces 210 and 212 which lie parallel to the locking plane 74. There surfaces are pressed together when the joints Jm and Jf are engaged. Provided no wax is placed on these surfaces they will in effect provide a frictional intermediate locking plane 74. Such frictional intermediate locking planes can be incorporated in other of the above described
  • adhesive is applied to both of the recesses in the male joint Jm only and not in the female joint Jf.
  • the adhesive due to the nature of the re-stickable adhesive, when a substrate 12 is removed from adjacent adjoining substrates, the adhesive remains in the recesses 42 and 42c of the removed substrates.
  • the nature of the adhesive is such that it remains in the recess in which it is originally provided. This is depicted in Figures 23c-23i which progressively show the disengagement of joints Jm and Jf of the joint system 10n
  • FIG. 23c shown joints Jm and Jf prior to engagement.
  • Recesses 42 and 42c are each provided with respective beads B1 and B2 of re-stickable adhesive 300 covered with release strips R1 and R2. There is no adhesive in the recesses 42b and 42d.
  • Figure 23d shows the joints Jm and Jf fully engaged with the release strips R1 and R2 removed so that the re-stickable adhesive 300 in beads B1 and B2 adhere to the surface of the recesses 42b and 42d.
  • Figures 23e -23i show the typical disengagement process of joints Jm and Jf in embodiments of any joints system with initially the joint Jm being rotated in a negative (clockwise) direction relative to joint Jf to release protrusion Pm from recess Rf, and the subsequent application of downward pressure on the female joint Jf.
  • the re-stickable adhesive is able to flex and move during the separation process to allow the rotation and subsequently is pulled from the recesses 42b and 42d to remain in recesses 42 and 42c.
  • the adhesive beads B bonded to a joint J may also act to absorb debris that lies in a recess into which the bead B is to be adhered.
  • a bead B bonded in recess 42 can absorb debris in the recess 42b into which the bead B is adhered.
  • the debris will initially adhere to the outside surface of the bead B.
  • One or more adhesive beads can be provided in each of the previously described embodiments to provide added vertical and horizontal locking strength while still allowing the full operation and benefits of the embodiments. This may be achieved for example by the provision of one or more recesses 42 in one of the joints Jm or Jf to seat a bead of the re-stickable adhesive. Depending on the thickness of the bead a receiving recess may or may not be required on the other joints Jm and Jf. The provision of the re-stickable adhesive can be seen as providing an additional locking plane to the joint system.
  • the adhesive is laid in only one of two mutually facing recesses 42.
  • the bond when the adhesive is initially placed in that recess is stronger than the bond when that adhesive contacts a surface of the opposed recess in another substrate.
  • the adhesive originally applied to that substrate remains with that substrate.
  • the protrusions Pm and Pf are not of the same configuration, i.e. cannot be transposed over each other.
  • the recesses Rm and Rf are not of the same configuration, i.e. cannot be transposed over each other. More particularly the respective engaging protrusions and recesses are not of a complementary configuration.
  • the protrusions Pm and Pf; the recesses Rm and Rf ; and joints Jm and Jf are asymmetrical.
  • a protrusion P is engaged in a recess R gaps or spaces are created between the male and female locking surfaces ML1, FL1 and ML2, FL2 at the inner and outer locking planes 18 and 20.
  • a semi floating/semi direct stick surface covering system may be provided by a plurality of substrates 12 incorporating any one of the joints systems 10 as hereinbefore described and further incorporating a quantity of the re-stickable adhesive 300 bonded to the first major surface 16.
  • the re-stickable adhesive 300 is used in conjunction with a sealant or sealing membrane (not shown) which is applied to an underlying surface onto which the adhesive 300 is to be bonded.
  • sealants are commercially available which may perform this function.
  • sealants may include for example BONDCRETETM or, CROMMELINTM concrete sealer.
  • the type of sealant used is simply dependent on the type of surface onto which the semi-floating surface covering system is to be used. The purpose is to prevent the generation of dust which may otherwise interfere with the bonding strength of the blue adhesive 300.
  • direct stick flooring to floating flooring as it provides a harder more solid feel and significantly does not provide bounce when being walked on and does not generate noise such as creaking or squeaking.
  • a disadvantage however of the direct stick flooring is that it is very messy to apply, and once the adhesive has cured, which it is specifically designed to do, removal and/or repair of one or more damaged panels is problematic.
  • the removal of a direct stick panel generally requires the use of power tools to initially cut through a section of the panel, and then much hard labour in scraping the remainder of the plank and adhesive from the underlying subsurface. This generates substantial dust and noise and of course usually comes at substantial expense due to the associated time required.
  • re-stickable adhesive 300 eliminates bounce and noise often found with conventional floating flooring, but still provides a degree of cushioning due to the flexible and elastic characteristics of the adhesive which does not set or cure. Further the characteristics of the adhesive also enable movement of substrates/panels 12 due to changes in environmental condition such as temperature and humidity. This is not possible with direct stick flooring. Indeed recently, the world market has been having problems with direct sticking of compressed bamboo substrates due to the completely rigid and inflexible bond created by the traditional adhesives.
  • the re-stickable adhesive also enables for the take up of undulations or variations in the underlying surface to which it is applied. This is facilitated by providing the adhesive 300 in beads or strips of a thickness measured perpendicular to the major surfaces 14, 16 of between 1 - 6mm and more particularly 2 - 4mm.
  • the adhesive as mentioned above also provides acoustic benefits in: (a) eliminating noise and squeak which may otherwise arise from the bounce or deflection in traditional floating floors; (b) dampening vibrations (i.e. noise) transmission between adjacent panels; and (c) dampening vibrations (i.e. noise) transmission in multi-storey buildings from an upper level to an immediately adjacent lower level. This again is to be contrast with direct stick glues which due to their curing into a rigid bond, do not in any way dampen vibration or noise transmission.
  • re-stickable adhesive as herein before described in their own right give rise to a floor covering systems comprising substrates which may be tessellated and on which the adhesive is applied. Such systems do not necessarily require vertical joints systems of the type described hereinabove and may also be used with other types of joints systems. Indeed in certain circumstances, it is believed that the re-stickable adhesive concept gives rise to a surface covering system with joint-less substrates.
  • a semi-floating surface covering system which comprises a plurality of substrates each substrate having first and second opposite major surfaces, the first major surface arranged to lie parallel to and face a surface to be covered; a quantity of re-stickable adhesive as herein before described bonded to the first major surface; and one or more release strips covering the removal adhesive.
  • the adhesive 300 will be applied at the time of manufacture of the substrate 12.
  • a commercial product would comprise for example boxes of substrates 12 provided with one or more lines of adhesive material 300 covered with release strips 302. Installers are then able to simply install a surface covering by applying, if it does not already exist, a sealing coat or membrane to the surface 304, removing the release strip 302 and pressing the substrate 12 onto an underlying surface 304.
  • the substrate also includes a joint system such as, but not limited to, the joint systems 10 et al as described herein above, then the installer would engage joints of adjacent panels during the installation process
  • the adhesive material 302 may be applied by rolling a strip or bead of hot melt pressure sensitive adhesive onto the major surface 16.
  • Figures 24a-24c illustrate the adhesive 300 applied as strips of adhesive
  • Figures 25a and 25b illustrate the adhesive 300 applied as beads B of adhesive.
  • the re-stickable adhesive is provided by say GLUE DOTSTM adhesive dots
  • the dots can be applied by machine16.
  • the quantity of re-stickable adhesive 300 is applied in three spaced apart lines extending in a longitudinal direction L of a panel 12.
  • the adhesive material 300 may be applied in different configurations.
  • the re-stickable adhesive material 300 is covered by one or more release strips 302.
  • a separate release strip 302 is applied individually to each individual line of adhesive material 300.
  • a single release strip having dimensions substantially the same as dimensions of the major surface 16 may be applied to the quantity of re-stickable adhesive 300. In that instance, when using the substrate 12, an installer need peel off only one release strip 302 rather than a number of separate release strips.
  • Figures 24c and 25b depict the use of the adhesive based surface covering systems on an underlying surface 304 which may, for example, be a concrete pad.
  • the release strips 302 are removed and the panel 12 is applied with surface 16 directed toward or facing the surface 304.
  • the panel 12 is adhered to the surface 304.
  • Additional panel 12 can be likewise adhered to a surface 304 and tessellated to form a surface covering.
  • the adhesive material 300 is sufficiently tacky and strong to adhere to the surface 304 with sufficient force to prevent lifting or separation between the panel 12 and surface 304 under normal use conditions.
  • FIG. 26a - 26e depict in part the removal of a damaged panel 12b of a semi-floating surface covering system which includes adjoined panels 12a and 12c.
  • Each of the panels in the semi-floating floor system is formed with a joint system 10 which may be in accordance with any one of the embodiments of the joint system described above.
  • beads B of adhesive material 300 adhere the panels 12 to the underlying surface 90.
  • Figures 26b - 26e show sequentially the steps of attaching a jack 92 to the damaged board 12b and subsequently operating the jack to lift the panel 12b from the surface 90.
  • the sequence of steps and the method of their performance are identical to that described herein above in relation to Figures 6d - 6h .
  • the operation of the jack 92 to vertically lift the panel 12b also has the effect of initially flexing and stretching the beads B and subsequently causing the beads B to detach and lift from the underlying surface 90. This will occur generally in sequence as a jack is operated to lift the panel 12b from a region in the vicinity of the jack 92 outwardly to lower lying regions.
  • the first beads B to detach form surface 90 will be those on either side of or otherwise closest to the shaft 96 of the jack 92. As the jack 92 progressively lifts the panel 12b the beads B of adhesive 300 nearest the most recently detached beads will now lift off the surface 90 and so on.
  • the entirety of the bead B will lift from the surface 90 and thus remain bonded to the substrate 12. In some instances, very small portions of the adhesive 300 may remain on the underlying surface 90.
  • a further feature of substrates incorporating having embodiments of the joint system 10 is the ability to reverse lay.
  • Reverse laying has two meanings in the art. One meaning refers to the ability to lay form both sided of a panel. For example consider a first panel approximately midway between parallel walls in a room. The ability to reverse lay enables two installers (or two teams of installers) to lie in opposite directions away from the first panel. This naturally greatly reduces the installation time. This is used with direct stick panels and has the benefit of enabling run out to be amortised between opposing walls of a room to provide a superior visual appeal. Reverse laying with direct stick is possible because a layer can fix with glue a first panel in an optimum position in or near the middle of the room to minimise run out near the walls. Additional panels can be stuck down form opposite side of the first panel. This cannot be done with floating floors because a first panel placed in an optimum position is not fixed, it floats, and thus cannot be used as a base to lay in opposite directions.
  • reverse lay refers to the ability to engage panels 12 which extend perpendicular (or some orientation other than parallel) to each other. This enables for example the ability to lay in say a herring bone pattern.
  • Figures 27a and 27b illustrate the above aspects or meaning of reverse laying pictorially.
  • Figure 27a shows a floor plan 400 of a building in which a floor comprising a plurality of panels 12 is laid.
  • Figure 27b illustrates in enlarged view detail A of Figure 27a encompassing a portion of a passageway of the building.
  • the layer would choose a wall for example wall 402 in a room 403 as a starting wall against which a first panel 12a is laid. It is well known that walls in buildings are never perfectly parallel or square to each other and may be out of alignment by up to 100mm or more.
  • wall 404 runs generally but not exactly parallel to a wall 402 and may be out of alignment by a length of say 100mm between opposite ends of the walls 402 and 404.
  • the misalignment or divergence between the walls 404 and 402 becomes apparent as the edge of panel 12p does not abut the wall 404. Rather, there is a divergence between the edge of panel 12p and wall 404 requiring the provision of obliquely cut panels 12q laid end to end to make up the gap between the panels 12p and wall 404.
  • panels 12a, 12b etc is made solely for the purposes of ease of description. Ordinarily for example panels 12a, 12b etc shown in room 403 would comprise a plurality of panels joined end to end.
  • a layer can now utilise a centre line 420 of say room 401 as a starting point for the laying of the first panel and then reverse lay in opposite directions.
  • a centre line 420 of say room 401
  • the misalignment between the walls 402 and 404 from a visual perspective can be minimised by amortising the run out in the panels 12 immediately adjacent the walls 402 and 404.
  • This can be seen by the center line 420 passing obliquely through the panels 12i and 12j which are shown in positions provided by traditional laying practice for floating floors.
  • joint system may be applied to square, hexagonal or triangular panels. Also there is no need for the panels to be of identical shape and/or size. All such modifications and variations together with others that would be obvious to persons of ordinary skill in the art are deemed to be within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

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Claims (10)

  1. Système de joint vertical (10) pour un substrat présentant de première et seconde surfaces principales opposées, le système de joint (10) comprenant :
    des joints mâle et femelle (Jm, Jf) s'étendant le long de côtés opposés du substrat, les joints mâle et femelle étant non-symétriques de sorte que lorsque les joints sont engagés l'un avec l'autre plusieurs écartements ou espaces sont formés entre les joints engagés, le joint mâle comprenant une protubérance mâle (Pm) s'étendant en général perpendiculairement à partir de la première surface principale vers la seconde surface principale et un creux mâle (Rm) formé en interne de la protubérance mâle (Pm) ; le joint femelle (Jf) comprenant une protubérance femelle (Pf) s'étendant en général perpendiculairement à partir de la seconde surface principale vers la première surface principale et un creux femelle (Rf) formé en interne de la protubérance femelle ;
    dans lequel la protubérance mâle (Pm) présentant une surface s'étendant transversalement (Cm1) sur un côté distant du creux mâle (Rm) étant un côté le plus externe du joint mâle, le creux mâle (Rm) présentant une surface s'étendant transversalement (Cm2) sur un côté distant de la protubérance mâle (Pm) étant un côté le plus interne du joint mâle, la protubérance femelle (Pf) présentant une surface s'étendant transversalement (Cf2) sur un côté distant du creux femelle étant un côté le plus externe du joint femelle, le creux femelle (Rf) présentant une surface s'étendant transversalement (Cf1) sur un côté distant du creux femelle étant un côté le plus interne du joint femelle ;
    caractérisé en ce que les surfaces s'étendant transversalement latéralement espacées (Cm1, Cm2, Cf1, Cf2) sont des surfaces convexes courbées configurées pour permettre au joint mâle (Jm) d'un substrat d'engager le joint femelle (Jf) d'un second substrat avec les surfaces s'étendant transversalement (Cm1, Cm2) du joint mâle disposées relativement aux surfaces s'étendant transversalement (Cf1, Cf2) du second joint pour former des premier et second plans de verrouillage respectifs (18, 20) sur le côté le plus interne et un côté le plus externe de chaque joint, chaque plan de verrouillage étant parallèle à la direction d'engagement et dans lequel les surfaces s'étendant transversalement associées à chaque plan de verrouillage s'étendent latéralement l'une vers l'autre à partir des opposés du plan de verrouillage avec les surfaces s'étendant transversalement (Cf1, Cf2) du joint femelle surplombant les surfaces s'étendant transversalement (Cm1, Cm2) du joint mâle ;
    dans lequel deux ou plusieurs substrats avec des systèmes de joints semblables (10) peuvent s'engager l'un l'autre en réponse à une force appliquée dans une direction d'engagement qui est perpendiculaire aux surfaces principales et ensuite se désengager en élevant un premier substrat dans une direction opposée à la direction d'engagement pour faciliter une rotation de substrats engagés adjacents le long de côtés opposés du premier substrat pour se trouver dans des plans déclinés à partir du premier substrat et en appliquant ensuite une force dans la direction d'engagement aux seconds joints des substrats engagés.
  2. Système de joint vertical (10) selon la revendication 1, dans lequel les joints mâle et femelle (Jm, Jf) sont de plus configurés pour permettre aux substrats engagés adjacents de tourner jusqu'à de 7° à 10° vers le bas à partir du premier substrat sans désengagement.
  3. Système de joint vertical (10) selon la revendication 1 ou 2, dans lequel les joints mâle et femelle (Jm, Jf) sont configurés pour permettre aux substrats engagés adjacents de tourner jusqu'à 3° dans des plans inclinés par rapport au premier substrat.
  4. Système de joint vertical (10) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 3, dans lequel les joints mâle et femelle sont chacun munis de deux surfaces d'inflexion latéralement espacées configurées pour permettre au joint mâle d'un substrat d'engager le joint femelle d'un second substrat avec les deux surfaces d'inflexion (Im1, Im2) du joint mâle engageant les deux surfaces d'inflexion (If1, If2) du joint femelle sur les côtés les plus externes et internes de chaque joint pour former les premier et second plans de verrouillage respectifs (18, 20) dont chacun empêche indépendamment une séparation des joints engagés dans une direction parallèle à la direction d'engagement dans lequel les surfaces d'inflexion associées à chaque plan de verrouillage se trouvent sur les deux côtés de ce plan de verrouillage, et dans lequel les surfaces s'étendant transversalement (Cm1, Cm2) du joint mâle forment une partie des surfaces d'inflexion respectives (Im1, Im2) du joint mâle ; et les surfaces s'étendant transversalement (Cf1, Cf2) du joint femelle forment une partie des surfaces d'inflexion respectives (If1, If2) du joint femelle.
  5. Système de joint vertical (10) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 4, dans lequel le joint mâle (Jm) présente une première surface de verrouillage mâle (ML1), formée sur un côté de sa protubérance mâle (Pm) la plus distante de son creux femelle (Rm), une seconde surface de verrouillage mâle (ML2) formée sur un côté de son creux femelle (Rm) le plus distant de sa protubérance mâle (Pm) et une troisième surface de verrouillage mâle (ML3) étant une surface commune à la protubérance mâle (Pm) et au creux mâle (Rm) ; le joint femelle (Jf) présentant une première surface de verrouillage femelle (FL1) formée sur un côté de son creux femelle (Rf) le plus distant de sa protubérance mâle (Pf), une seconde surface de verrouillage femelle (FL2) formée sur un côté de sa protubérance mâle (Pf) la plus distante de son creux femelle (Rf), et une troisième surface de verrouillage femelle (MF3) étant une surface commune à la protubérance femelle (Pf) et au creux femelle (Rf) ; les surfaces de verrouillage étant configurées de sorte que lorsque des joints mâle et femelle de deux substrats sont engagés, les première surfaces de verrouillage mâle et première femelle (ML1, FL1) s'engagent pour former le premier plan de verrouillage (18), les seconde surfaces de verrouillage mâle et seconde femelle (MF2, FL2) s'engagent pour former le second plan de verrouillage (20), et les troisième surfaces de verrouillage mâle et troisième femelle (ML3, FL3) s'engagent pour former un troisième plan de verrouillage (74) disposé entre les premier et second plans de verrouillage (18, 20) chaque plan de verrouillage empêchant une séparation des joints engagés dans une direction parallèle à la direction d'engagement et dans lequel la première surface de verrouillage mâle (ML1) inclut la surface s'étendant transversalement (Cm1), la seconde surface de verrouillage mâle (ML2) inclut la surface s'étendant transversalement (Cm2), la première surface de verrouillage femelle (FL1) inclut la surface s'étendant transversalement (Cf1), et la seconde surface de verrouillage femelle (FL2) inclut la surface s'étendant transversalement (Cf2).
  6. Système de joint vertical (10) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 4, dans lequel les joints mâle et femelle (Jm, Jf) sont configurés pour créer trois plans de verrouillage (18, 74, 20) lorsque mutuellement engagés, chaque plan de verrouillage étant parallèle à la direction d'engagement et empêchant une séparation de joints engagés dans une direction opposée à la direction d'engagement.
  7. Système de joint vertical (10) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 6, dans lequel lorsque le substrat est dans la configuration d'un substrat rectangulaire ou carré plan présentant quatre côtés, le joint mâle (Jm) s'étend pour deux côtés adjacents et le joint femelle (Jf) s'étend pour les deux côtés adjacents restants.
  8. Système de couverture de surface semi-flottant comprenant :
    plusieurs substrats chaque substrat présentant un système de joint vertical (10) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1-7 ;
    une quantité d'adhésif recollable lié à la première surface principale ; et, une ou plusieurs bandes de détachement couvrant l'adhésif recollable.
  9. Système de couverture de surface comprenant plusieurs substrats, chaque substrat présentant : des première et seconde surfaces principales opposées dans lequel la première surface principale est disposée pour faire face à un support de sous-couche à couvrir par le système ; et un système de joint vertical (10) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1-8 dans lequel un côté du substrat est muni du joint mâle (Jm) et un côté opposé du substrat est muni du joint femelle (Jf).
  10. Système de couverture de surface selon la revendication 9 comprenant au moins un vérin (92) pouvant être attaché de manière démontable au premier substrat, le vérin (92) comprenant un arbre disposé pour passer à travers une perforation formée dans le premier substrat pour porter sur le support de sous-couche, le vérin (92) pouvant fonctionner pour étendre l'arbre à travers la perforation pour élever par-là le premier substrat à partir du support de sous-couche.
EP12760572.3A 2011-03-18 2012-03-16 Système de joints verticaux et système de revêtement de surface associé Active EP2686502B1 (fr)

Priority Applications (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PL19195981T PL3597836T3 (pl) 2011-03-18 2012-03-16 Pionowy system złącza dla pokrycia powierzchni
EP19195981.6A EP3597836B1 (fr) 2011-03-18 2012-03-16 Systeme de joint vertical pour recouvrement de surface
PL12760572T PL2686502T3 (pl) 2011-03-18 2012-03-16 System złącza pionowego i powiązany system przykrywający powierzchnię
EP22150200.8A EP4050180A1 (fr) 2011-03-18 2012-03-16 Système de joint vertical et système de revêtement de surface associé

Applications Claiming Priority (5)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU2011900987A AU2011900987A0 (en) 2011-03-18 Structural Locking System
AU2011902017A AU2011902017A0 (en) 2011-05-24 Structural Locking System
AU2011902871A AU2011902871A0 (en) 2011-07-19 Structural Locking System
AU2011904668A AU2011904668A0 (en) 2011-11-09 Structural Locking System
PCT/AU2012/000280 WO2012126046A1 (fr) 2011-03-18 2012-03-16 Système de joints verticaux et système de revêtement de surface associé

Related Child Applications (2)

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EP22150200.8A Division EP4050180A1 (fr) 2011-03-18 2012-03-16 Système de joint vertical et système de revêtement de surface associé

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CA (1) CA2866109C (fr)
CL (1) CL2013002698A1 (fr)
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RU2604358C2 (ru) 2016-12-10
RU2013146212A (ru) 2015-04-27
BR112013023790A2 (pt) 2016-12-06
CL2013002698A1 (es) 2014-11-14
CN103547749A (zh) 2014-01-29
KR101998335B1 (ko) 2019-07-09
PL3597836T3 (pl) 2022-05-02
PL2686502T3 (pl) 2020-03-31
SG193535A1 (en) 2013-10-30
EP4050180A1 (fr) 2022-08-31
PH12013501935A1 (en) 2013-10-14
KR20140050596A (ko) 2014-04-29
MY167150A (en) 2018-08-13
JP6254519B2 (ja) 2017-12-27
JP2014513757A (ja) 2014-06-05
CA2866109C (fr) 2017-07-25
CN103547749B (zh) 2016-09-28
BR112013023790B1 (pt) 2021-06-29
CA2866109A1 (fr) 2012-09-27
WO2012126046A1 (fr) 2012-09-27
EP3597836B1 (fr) 2022-01-12
EP2686502A1 (fr) 2014-01-22
EP2686502A4 (fr) 2014-09-17

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