Patent Description:
Laminate flooring usually comprise a core of a <NUM>-<NUM> fibre board, a <NUM>-<NUM> thick upper decorative surface layer of laminate and a <NUM>-<NUM> thick lower balancing layer of laminate, plastic, paper or like material. A laminate surface comprises melamine-impregnated paper. The most common core material is fibreboard with high density and good stability usually called HDF - High Density Fibreboard. Sometimes also MDF - Medium Density Fibreboard - is used as core.

Laminate floor panels of this type have been joined mechanically by means of so-called mechanical locking systems. These systems comprise locking means, which lock the panels horizontally and vertically. The mechanical locking systems are usually formed by machining of the core of the panel. Alternatively, parts of the locking system may be formed of a separate material, for instance aluminium or HDF, which are integrated with the floor panel, i.e. joined with the floor panel in connection with the manufacture thereof.

The main advantages of floating floors with mechanical locking systems are that they are easy to install. They may also easily be taken up again and used once more at a different location. However, know systems suffer from drawbacks, for example in respect moisture control. As such, there is room for improvements in the technical field. The document <CIT> discloses such building panels.

An overall objective of the present disclosure is to provide a building panel which facilitates improved control of moisture, such as water. Improved moisture control may include not limited to improved sealing between assembled building panels, improved resistance to water penetration through a surface comprising assembled building panels.

It is a further object to provide a building panel which facilitates alignment of assembled such building panels.

It is thus a further object of the present invention to provide a building panel which facilitates improved moisture control of a lay of building panels, such as a floating floor. In particular, it is an object to provide a building panel for improving moisture control and/or at least reduce the possibility of water penetration of the T-joints of such floor lay.

The above objects of the invention are achieved by mechanical locking systems of floor panels according to the appended claims.

In the following text, the visible surface of the installed floor panel is called "front surface", while the opposite side of the floor panel facing the subfloor is called "rear surface". "Horizontal plane" relates to a plane, which is parallel to the front side. Directly adjoining upper parts of two neighboring joint edges of two joined floor panels together define a "vertical plane" perpendicular to the horizontal plane. The outer parts of the floor panel at the edge of the floor panel between the front surface and the rear surface are called "joint edge". As a rule, the joint edge has several "joint surfaces" which can be vertical, horizontal, angled, rounded, beveled, etc. These joint surfaces exist on different materials, for instance laminate, fiberboard, wood, plastic, metal (in particular aluminum) or sealing materials.

By "vertical locking" is meant locking parallel to the vertical plane. By "horizontal locking" is meant locking parallel to the horizontal plane.

By "up" is meant towards the front surface, by "down" towards the rear surface, by "inwardly" mainly horizontally towards an inner and centre part of the panel and by "outwardly" mainly horizontally away from the centre part of the panel.

By "locking" or "locking system" are meant cooperating connecting means which interconnect the floor panels vertically and/ or horizontally. By "mechanical locking system" is meant that locking can take place without glue. Mechanical locking systems can in many cases also be joined by glue.

By "decorative surface layer" is meant a surface layer, which is mainly intended to give the floor its decorative appearance. "Wear resistant surface layer" relates to a high abrasive surface layer, which is mainly adapted to improve the durability of the front side. This conclude in that a "decorative wear resistant surface layer" is a layer, which is intended to give the floor its decorative appearance as well as improve the durability of the front side. A surface layer is typically applied to the core.

Embodiments of the present invention are particularly suitable for use in floating floors, which are formed of floor panels which are joined mechanically with a locking system integrated with the floor panel, i.e. mounted at the factory, are made up of one or more upper layers of wood or wood veneer, decorative laminate, powder based surfaces or decorative plastic material, an intermediate core of wood-fibre-based material or plastic material and preferably a lower balancing layer on the rear side of the core. Floor panels of solid wood or with a surface layer of cork, linoleum, rubber or soft wear layers, for instance needle felt glued to a board, printed and preferably also varnished surface and floors with hard surfaces such as stone, tile and similar materials are included.

The following description of known technique, problems of known systems and objects and features of embodiments of the invention will therefore, as a non-restrictive example, be aimed above all at this field of application and in particular at panels formed as rectangular floor panels with long and shorts edges intended to be mechanically joined to each other on both long and short edges.

It should be emphasised that embodiments of the invention may be used in any floor panel and it may be combined with all types of known locking system formed on the long edges and/or short edges, where the floor panels are intended to be joined using a mechanical locking system connecting the panels in the horizontal and vertical directions on at least two adjacent edges.

In one aspect of the invention there is provided a set of similar or essentially identical building panels, such as a floor panels or wall panels according to claim <NUM>. The first upper lip portion of the fourth edge may be configured to form a tight fit around the first lower lip portion when the first lower lip portion is received under the first upper lip portion in response to said folding displacement. Further advantages and embodiments being set forth in the appended dependent claims and detailed description.

The disclosure will in the following be described in connection to exemplary embodiments and in greater detail with reference to the appended schematic drawings, wherein:.

Embodiments will now be described with reference to the appended schematic drawings. Angles, dimensions, rounded parts, spaces between surfaces, etc. are only examples and may be adjusted within the basic principles of the invention.

A known building panel comprising mechanical locking systems is illustrated in <FIG>.

A mechanical locking system typically comprises a tongue and a tongue groove for vertical locking and a locking element and a locking groove for horizontal locking. It typically has at least four pairs of active cooperating locking surfaces, two pairs for vertical locking and two pairs for horizontal locking. The locking system comprises several other surfaces, which generally are not in contact with each other and can therefore be produced with considerably larger tolerance then the cooperating locking surfaces.

Laminate floorings are usually composed of a core consisting of a <NUM> - <NUM> fiberboard, a <NUM> thick upper surface layer and a lower balancing layer. The surface layer provides appearance and durability to the floor panels. The core provides stability and the balancing layer keeps the board level when the relative humidity (RH) varies during the year.

<FIG> illustrates, according to known art, a typical first mechanical locking system (strip lock), which can be locked with angling (see <FIG>) and which is widely used on the market, in particular for assembling respective long edges of panels to each other. <FIG> shows a vertical cross section of the floor panel is shown of a part of a long side <NUM>' of the floor panel <NUM>', as well as a part of a long side <NUM>' of the floor panel <NUM>'. The bodies of the floor panels <NUM>', <NUM>' can be composed of a fiberboard body or core, which supports here, a wear resistant and decorative surface layer on its front side and a balancing layer on its rear side (underside). The locking system has a tongue <NUM>' and a tongue groove 13j' which locks the panels in a vertical direction V with upper <NUM> and lower <NUM> tongue surfaces that cooperate with upper <NUM> and lower <NUM> tongue grooves surfaces. A locking strip 13a' is formed from the body and supports a locking element 13b'. Therefore the locking strip 13a' and the locking element 13b' in a way constitute an extension of the lower part of the tongue groove 13j'. The locking element 13b' formed on the strip 13a' has an operative locking element surface <NUM>' which cooperates with an operative locking groove surface <NUM>' in a locking groove <NUM>' in the opposite locking groove side of the floor panel <NUM>'. By the engagement between the horizontal operative locking surfaces <NUM>', <NUM>' a horizontal locking of the floor panels <NUM>', <NUM>' transversely of the joint edge is obtained if the panels are pulled apart.

A known second locking system, shown in <FIG>, can also be formed with a flexible tongue 11i' (fold lock) typically used at short edges <NUM>', <NUM>' as shown in <FIG>, which can be displaced during locking. Such a locking system can be locked with a vertical movement as shown in <FIG> where the first edge <NUM>' of panel <NUM>' is assembled to the second edge <NUM>' of panel <NUM>' by means of a vertical motion.

The displaceable tongue 11i' is configured to cooperate with the second tongue groove 12j' for locking in a vertical direction. The displaceable tongue 11i' is a separate part and is made of, e.g., plastic, and inserted in a displacement groove <NUM>' at the first edge <NUM>' of the first panel <NUM>'. The tongue 11i' is pushed into a displacement groove <NUM>' during a vertical assembling of the first and the second edge of the first and the second panel. The displaceable tongue 11i' springs back and into the second tongue groove 12j' at the second edge <NUM>' of the panel <NUM>' when the panels have reached a locked position.

A third <NUM>' and a fourth edge <NUM>' of the respective panels are provided with the first locking system, which enables assembling to an adjacent panel <NUM>' by an angling movement to obtain a simultaneous assembling of the first <NUM>' and the second <NUM>' edges and the third <NUM>' and the fourth edges <NUM>' as shown in <FIG>.

<FIG> show cross sections of different embodiments of the known locking systems during assembling of a first and a second panel <NUM>', <NUM>'.

Exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown in <FIG> and <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, <FIG>, a first mechanical locking system shown in <FIG> is formed with tongue <NUM> and groove 13j and configured to be assembled by means of an angling movement. The fourth edge <NUM> may comprise a first locking protrusion 14e in the shape of a locking tongue, provided with a first lower edge surface 14f. An embodiment of the second locking system is shown in <FIG>, wherein the second edge <NUM> is provided with a second locking protrusion 12e which may be a locking tongue <NUM>, provided with a second lower edge surface 12f, preferably the first and second lower edge surfaces 12f, 14f are configured to cooperate with a respective of the first and second upper surfaces 11c, 13c of a first and a second locking strip 13a, 11a of adjacent panels, such as the second <NUM> panel shown in <FIG> and the third panel <NUM> as shown for instance in <FIG>.

The first mechanical locking system comprises a first tongue groove 13j at one of a third edge <NUM> or fourth <NUM> edge, for example the third edge <NUM>, and a first locking tongue <NUM> at the other of the third or fourth edge, for example the fourth edge <NUM>. The first locking tongue <NUM> and the first tongue groove 13j are configured to cooperate for locking of the third and the fourth edge <NUM>, <NUM> in a vertical V direction. The first mechanical locking system may typically further comprise a first locking strip 13a at the third edge <NUM>, provided with a vertically protruding first locking element 13b, a first locking groove <NUM> at a fourth edge <NUM>. The first locking element 13b is configured to cooperate with the first locking groove <NUM> for locking of the third <NUM> and the fourth edge <NUM> in a horizontal direction, in particular away from each other and perpendicular said third and fourth edge.

The second mechanical locking system is preferably formed at one of a first <NUM> or second <NUM> short edge, such as a first edge, of similar, preferably essentially identical panels <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. The second mechanical locking system may be configured for locking the first edge <NUM> of the a first panel <NUM> to the second edge of an adjacent panel <NUM>, in a plane, and in a vertical and in horizontal directions perpendicular said first and second edge towards and away from each other. An embodiment of the second mechanical locking system enables assembling of the first and the second panels by a vertical motion of the second edge of the adjacent panel <NUM> relative the first edge <NUM> of the first panel <NUM>. Such vertical motion is shown for instance in <FIG>. The first and second mechanical locking systems are preferably formed by mechanical cutting, such as milling, drilling and/or sawing, of the edges of the panels and the second mechanical locking system may be provided with a displaceable tongue 11i, preferably of plastic. The displaceable tongue may be bendable and provided with protruding bendable parts, such as the displaceable tongues disclosed in <CIT> and <CIT>. The displaceable tongue may also be configured to be locked by a movement along the first and the second edge, such as the displaceable tongues disclosed in <CIT> and <CIT>.

Referring to <FIG>. Embodiments of a second locking system may comprise a second locking tongue, which may be provided in the shape of a displaceable tongue 11i arranged in a displacement groove <NUM> for example at the first edge <NUM> of the first panel <NUM>. The displaceable tongue 11i is configured to cooperate with a first tongue groove 12j formed at the other of the first <NUM> or second edge <NUM>, for locking of the first and the second edge <NUM>, <NUM> in a vertical V direction.

A further embodiment of the second locking system in shape of a one-piece solution combinable with the first locking system is shown in <FIG>.

As derivable from <FIG>, an upper edge portion of one of a third or fourth edge <NUM>, <NUM>, which may be opposite parallel edges, such as the third edge <NUM>, may comprise a planar surface portion, which may be provided in the shape of a first lower lip portion <NUM> configured to cooperate, including not limited to, to receive or mate with a complementary planar surface portion, which may be provided in the shape of a first upper lip portion <NUM>, of an upper edge portion of the other of the third or fourth edge of an adjacent panel.

As derivable from <FIG>, an upper edge portion of one of a first or second edge <NUM>, <NUM>, which may be opposite parallel edges, such as the first edge <NUM>, may comprise a planar surface portion, which may be in the shape of a second lower lip portion <NUM> configured to cooperate, including not limited to, to receive or mate with a complementary planar surface portion, which may be provided in the shape of a second upper lip portion <NUM>, of an upper edge portion of the other of the first or second edge of an adjacent panel.

An outermost portion of first upper lip portion <NUM> may be disposed inboard of outermost portion of first locking tongue <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>.

An outermost portion of first lower lip portion <NUM> may be disposed inboard of outermost portion of first locking strip 13a, as shown in <FIG>.

An outermost portion of first lower lip portion <NUM> may be disposed outboard of innermost portion of first tongue groove 13j, as shown in <FIG>.

An upper edge portion of the fourth edge <NUM>, preferably a long edge, may comprise a vertically extending edge portion extending from the front surface <NUM> followed by a bend, preferably a right-angle bend, inwards. Said bend followed by a horizontal planar surface, wherein said first upper lip portion <NUM> may comprise said horizontal planar surface. The vertically extending edge portion and the first upper lip portion may be perpendicular to each other, while the corner connecting the two portions may be rounded or beveled. Optionally, the horizontal planar surface may additionally form a datum surface. A datum surface may be a surface that contacts the adjacent panel, in locked position, and serves as a basis or guide to alignment of the panels to each other.

An upper edge portion of the third edge <NUM>, preferably a long edge, may comprise a vertically extending edge portion extending from the front surface followed by a bend, preferably a right-angle bend, outwards. Said bend followed by a horizontal planar surface, wherein said first lower lip portion <NUM> may comprise said horizontal planar surface. The vertically extending edge portion and the first lower lip portion may be perpendicular to each other, while the corner connecting the two portions may be rounded. Optionally, the horizontal planar surface may additionally form a datum surface.

An upper edge portion of the second edge <NUM>, preferably a short edge, may comprise a vertically extending edge portion extending from the front surface <NUM> followed by a bend, preferably a right-angle bend, inwards. Said bend followed by a horizontal planar surface, wherein said second upper lip portion <NUM> may comprise said horizontal planar surface. The vertically extending edge portion and the second upper lip portion may be perpendicular to each other, while the corner connecting the two portions may be rounded or beveled. Optionally, the horizontal planar surface may additionally form a datum surface.

An upper edge portion of the first edge <NUM>, preferably a short edge, may comprise a vertically extending edge portion extending from the front surface <NUM> followed by a bend, preferably a right-angle bend, outwards. Said bend followed by a horizontal planar surface, wherein said second lower lip portion <NUM> may comprise said horizontal planar surface. The vertically extending edge portion and the second lower lip portion may be perpendicular to each other, while the corner connecting the two portions may be rounded. Optionally, the horizontal planar surface may additionally form a datum surface.

Outermost portion of second lower lip portion <NUM> may be disposed inboard of an outermost portion of second locking strip 11a, as shown in <FIG>.

The second lower lip portion <NUM> may have an extension inboard of an innermost portion of the second tongue groove 11j, as shown in <FIG>.

The second upper lip portion <NUM> may have an extension outboard of an outermost portion of the second locking tongue <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>.

An outermost portion of second lower lip portion <NUM> may be disposed inboard of outermost portion of second locking tongue 11i, as shown in <FIG>.

An outermost portion of second lower lip portion <NUM> may be disposed at least partially inboard of an opening of the second displacement groove <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>.

Inboard may be synonymous with inwards of, in a direction towards the centre of the panel. Outboard may be synonymous with outwards of, in a direction away from the centre of the panel.

The upper and lower lips may each comprise a datum surface configured for aligning the front surface <NUM> of the panel with respective front surfaces <NUM> of adjacent panels to become flush with each other when assembled in locking position.

The upper and lower lips may be planar, in particular the lip portions may be planar and may extend in parallel. The lip portions may preferably extend in a plane parallel the front surface <NUM> of the panel. However, other configurations are perceivable, such as inclined in relation to the front surface <NUM>.

The first upper lip portion <NUM> of the panel may be configured to bear and/or rest on the first lower lip portion <NUM> when adjacent panels are assembled in locking engagement. Thereby, improved sealing function is facilitated when the panel is assembled in locking position to one or more further panels by means of the first locking system.

The second upper lip portion <NUM> of the panel may be configured to bear and/or rest on the second lower lip portion <NUM> when adjacent panels are assembled in locking engagement. Thereby, improved sealing function is facilitated when the panel is assembled in locking position to one or more further panels by means of the second locking system.

The first and second lower lip portions <NUM>, <NUM> may be configured to be underlying when engaging with a respective upper lip portion <NUM>, <NUM>. The first and second upper lip portions <NUM>, <NUM> may be configured to be overlying when engaging with a respective lower lip portion <NUM>, <NUM>.

Accordingly, at least a portion of the lower lip portions <NUM>, <NUM> may face in a direction upwards and at least a portion of the upper lip portions <NUM>, <NUM> may face in a direction downwards.

The first edge <NUM> and the third edge <NUM> may each comprise a vertically extending surface extending from the front surface <NUM> of the panel. The lower lip portions <NUM>, <NUM> may in combination with the respective vertically extending surface form an inwards recessing shape, such as right-angled surface which recesses inwards.

The second edge <NUM> and the fourth edge <NUM> may each comprise a vertically extending surface extending from the front surface <NUM> of the panel The upper lip portions <NUM>, <NUM> may in combination with the respective vertically extending surface form an outwards recessing shape, such as a right-angled surface which complements the respective inwards recessing lower lip portions, as shown in <FIG>.

The respective upper and/or lower lip portions may comprise a material which facilitates sealing, including, but not limited to, a polymer, rubber, silicone, adhesives, vax or like.

In a preferred embodiment, the respective first and second lower lip portions <NUM> and <NUM> are provided on the short first edge <NUM> and the long third edge <NUM> of the panel <NUM>, and the respective first and second upper lip portions <NUM>, <NUM> are provided on the short second edge <NUM> and the long fourth edge <NUM> respectively, as shown for instance in <FIG>, <FIG>.

Accordingly, by courtesy of that the respective first and second upper lip portions <NUM>, <NUM> may cooperate with, including to bear on, the respective first and second lower lip portions <NUM>, <NUM>, the configuration may bring about the technical advantage that the weight of the panel urges the respective first and second upper lip portions <NUM>, <NUM> towards the respective first and second lower lip portions <NUM>, <NUM> thereby the weight of the panel may contribute to the sealing function and thus improved sealing may be facilitated.

This entails that in some embodiments, the first lower edge surface 14f and the first upper surface 13c of two adjacent panel may in some embodiments not abut each other when the two adjacent panels are in assembled in locking position. Thus, a gap may extend between at least part of the first lower edge surface 14f and the first upper surface 13c of two adjacent panels when assembled in locking position.

However, in some embodiments, the first lower edge surface 14f and the first upper surface 13c of two adjacent panel may abut each other when the two adjacent panels are in assembled in locking position by means of the first locking system.

Referring to <FIG>, the first locking tongue <NUM>, the first tongue groove 13j and the first lip portions <NUM>, <NUM> may be configured to bias the first upper lip portion <NUM> towards the first lower lip portion <NUM> when a respective third edge <NUM> and fourth edge <NUM> are assembled in locking position. This configuration may facilitate that the first upper lip portion <NUM> is always biased towards the first lower lip portion <NUM> when one or more panels are assembled in locking position.

The first locking system may comprise a first locking tongue <NUM> and a first tongue groove 13j. The first lower lip portion <NUM> is preferably disposed between the first tongue groove 13j and the front surface <NUM> of the panel. The first upper lip portion <NUM> is preferably disposed between the first locking tongue <NUM> and the front surface <NUM> of the panel.

Referring to <FIG>, one of the first or second edge <NUM>, <NUM>, for example the first edge <NUM> may in some embodiments comprise a displaceable, preferably flexible tongue 11i configured to enable assembling of panels by means of vertical folding. The displaceable tongue 11i may be configured to cooperate with the second tongue groove 12j to thereby bias the second upper lip portion <NUM> against the second lower lip portion <NUM>, thereby facilitating an improved sealing function.

The second locking system may comprise a second locking tongue 11i, <NUM> and a second tongue groove 12j, 11j. The second lower lip portion <NUM> is preferably disposed between the second tongue groove 12j, 11j and the front surface <NUM> of the panel. The second upper lip portion <NUM> is preferably disposed between the second locking tongue 11i, <NUM> and the front surface <NUM> of the panel.

As derivable for instance from <FIG>, the provision of a pair of lip portions, such as the first lower and upper lip portions <NUM>, <NUM> and/or the second lower and upper lip portions <NUM>, <NUM>, each pair <NUM>, <NUM>; <NUM>, <NUM> may respectively form a mechanical labyrinth seal. Thus, this configuration may particularly advantageous for preventing moisture penetration between the edges <NUM>, <NUM> and/or between edges <NUM>, <NUM> respectively, such as between the front surface <NUM> to the locking tongue 11i, <NUM> or <NUM> or tongue groove 11j, 12j, 13j or from the front surface <NUM> to the rear surface <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG> showing an exemplary embodiment where the panels are assembled as a wall, i.e. the panels are utilized as wall panels. The provision of the lip portions <NUM>, <NUM><NUM>, <NUM> between the locking tongue 11i, <NUM>, <NUM> and/or locking groove 11j, 12j, 13j and the front surface <NUM> may facilitate that one or more of the pair lip portions i.e. <NUM>, <NUM>; <NUM>, <NUM>, may provide mechanical obstacles e.g. for a fluid such as water. Thereby, a fluid such as water which flow along the front surface <NUM> in a vertically downwards direction, when acted upon by gravitational force, may be hindered from flowing past the lip portions, such as the first lower lip portion <NUM> in a direction from the front surface <NUM> to the rear surface <NUM>.

In particular the first lower lip portion <NUM>, may provide, e.g. for a fluid such as water, a mechanical obstacle extending in a direction counter the direction of the gravitational force. Thereby, a fluid such as water which flow along the front surface <NUM> in a vertically downwards direction, when acted upon by gravitational force, will be hindered from flowing upwards and over the first lower lip portion <NUM>.

The first lower lip portion <NUM> and the first upper lip portion <NUM> may mutually define a datum plane Dp as illustrated in <FIG>.

The second lower lip portion <NUM> and the second upper lip portion <NUM> may respectively define a datum plane Dp as illustrated in <FIG>.

The first, second, third and fourth lip portions <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be configured to define a datum plane Dp.

The datum plane Dp may facilitate alignment of the respective front surface <NUM> of adjacent panels when assembled in locking position such that the respective front surfaces <NUM> of adjacent panels are arranged flush with each other.

The first lower lip portion <NUM> may preferably be disposed between first tongue groove 13j and the front surface <NUM> of the panel. The first upper lip portion <NUM> may preferably be disposed between first locking tongue <NUM> and the front surface <NUM> of the panel.

As explained above and shown in <FIG>, one of the first or second edges may according to embodiments comprise a second locking tongue 11i, such as a displaceable locking tongue configured to linearly translate in a displacement groove <NUM>, and the other of the first and second edges comprises a second tongue groove 12j for receiving said second locking tongue.

The second lower lip portion <NUM> may preferably be disposed at a vertical V position between second locking tongue 11i and the front surface <NUM> of the panel. The second upper lip portion <NUM> may preferably be disposed at a vertical V position between second tongue groove 12j and the front surface <NUM> of the panel.

Alternatively, as shown in <FIG>, the second lower lip portion <NUM> may be disposed at a vertical V position between a second tongue groove 11j of the first edge <NUM> and the front surface <NUM> of the panel. The second upper lip portion <NUM> may be disposed at a vertical V position between a second tongue <NUM> of the second edge <NUM> and the front surface <NUM> of the panel.

Courtesy of the lip portions <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> being overlaying and underlying respectively in a complementary manner, they may continuously define the datum plane Dp along the first, second, third and fourth edges when a panel is assembled with similar panels in locking position along all edges <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. Thereby, improved sealing may be facilitated.

The function of the lip portions may thus be twofold; having the function of aligning the respective front surfaces of the panels and and/or providing the continuous seal along the circumference of the panel together with respective mating lip portions of adjacent panels when assembled in locking position on all four edges of the panel.

A continuous seal along the circumference of the panel may thus be facilitated.

Referring to <FIG>, preferably, the edges of the panel which comprises a locking strip may comprise a respective lower lip portion i.e. the first edge <NUM> and the third edge <NUM>.

Referring e.g. to <FIG> and <FIG>, preferably, the edges of the panel which comprises a locking strip may comprise a respective lower lip portion i.e. the first edge <NUM> and the third edge <NUM>.

The panel <NUM> may comprise a surface layer 15a provided at the front surface <NUM> and preferably a backing layer 16a provided at the rear surface <NUM>. Typically, the surface layer comprises a decorative layer configured to be visible when the panels are assembled to a flooring. Such decorative layer is well known in the art and may be provided in different forms, including but not limited to printed paper, powder, printed powder or veneer, such as wood veneer. The surface layer, which may also provide a protective layer, typically comprising a binder resin, such as a thermosetting resin, which facilitates bonding, i.e., adhesion between, i. , the decorative layer and the core of the panel. The binder may also facilitate bonding of one or more additives such as surface hardening particles and/or pigments in order to provide the surface layer with various properties. The binder may comprise for example Melamine Formaldehyde. The binder may penetrate into the core of the panel during manufacture of the panel, typically the binder is provided in powder form whereby it becomes liquid in response to exposure to heat. The binder may therefore penetrate into the core of the building panel. The core may for example comprise one of MDF, HDF, wood, stone, ceramics, PVC, plastics, other materials are contemplatable.

The binder may have a depth of penetration into the core of the panel, in the thickness direction Z, from the front surface <NUM> of the panel and into the core. This feature provides for improved sealing between the respective upper and lower lip portions.

The depth of penetration may be at least into the first lower and upper lip portions <NUM>, <NUM>. This provides for a more water-tight first locking system.

The depth of penetration may be at least into the second lower and upper lip portions <NUM>, <NUM>. This provides for a more water-tight second locking system.

Consequently, aspects of the present disclosure may be particularly suitable for use in wet spaces, such as bath rooms, kitchens or like.

Consequently, aspects of the present disclosure may be suitable for use as floor panels, as illustrated for instance in <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>.

Consequently, aspects of the present disclosure may be suitable for use as wall panels, as illustrated for instance in <FIG> and <FIG>.

It should be appreciated that the provision and configuration of the upper and lower lip portions <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, as described herein, is not limited to use in combination with a particular locking system, but may rather be implemented in combination with virtually any mechanical locking system and in building panels of any material. The above described locking system serving merely as exemplary embodiments of possible implementation forms.

Referring to <FIG>, a panel, such as the first panel <NUM> may be assembled to an adjacent second panel <NUM> along its long fourth edge <NUM> by means of the first locking system, e.g. by an angling motion, thereby creating a long-side to long-side joint. The panel <NUM> may be further assembled with one of its short edges <NUM> to an adjacent third panel <NUM> by means of the second locking system, e.g., by vertical folding, thereby creating a short-side to short-side joint, and further assembled with its long third edge <NUM> to a further fourth panel <NUM> by means of the first locking system, e.g. by an angling motion, thereby creating a further long-side to long-side joint. The two further panels <NUM>, <NUM> being arranged on opposite sides of the short-side joint. The resulting configuration of panels is a typical floor lay when assembling e.g. a floating floor as shown in <FIG> or a wall, as shown in <FIG>. As derivable, the configuration comprises two T-joints. Each T-joint comprising a long-side to long-side joint (between a third edge <NUM> and a fourth edge <NUM>) and a short-side to short-side joint (between a first edge <NUM> and a second edge <NUM>). Thus, the set of similar or essentially identical panels can be assembled in locking position to comprise a first T-joint T1 and a second T-joint T2, as shown for instance in <FIG>.

In order to improve the sealing between assembled lay of panels comprising a panel assembled in locking position on all four sides i.e. all four edges, such as a floor lay (see <FIG>), it would be desirable to improve the water protection of both T-joints.

Thanks to the building panel having the features set forth herein, and in the appended claims, it may be facilitated that the sealing of both T-joints T1 and T2 is improved.

<FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG> illustrate different embodiments of pockets which may be combined with any one of the embodiments disclosed herein. The pockets may be configured to receive a sealant, such as a fluid or vax. The provision of one or more pockets may facilitate improved sealing of the joint between adjacent panels when configured in assembled position. The vax pockets may cooperate to control the flow of sealant through the joint when adjacent panels are assembled, such as from the pocket in a direction through the joint towards the front surface <NUM> and/or back surface <NUM>.

In <FIG>, an upper edge portion of the fourth edge <NUM>, such as a long edge, comprises a vertically extending edge portion <NUM> extending from the front surface <NUM> followed by a bend, preferably a right-angle bend, inwards towards the centre of the panel. The bend may be a chamfered, right-angle bend as shown in <FIG>. The bend is followed by a horizontal planar surface, wherein the first upper lip portion <NUM> may comprise said horizontal planar surface.

An upper edge portion of the third edge <NUM>, such a long edge, may comprise a vertically extending edge portion <NUM> extending from the front surface <NUM> followed by a bend, preferably a right-angle bend, outwards in a direction from the centre of the panel. The bend is followed by a horizontal planar surface, the first lower lip portion <NUM> may comprise said horizontal planar surface. A pocket <NUM> is provided in the third edge <NUM> between the vertically extending edge portion <NUM> and the planar surface. The pocket <NUM> extends downwards in a vertical direction towards the back surface <NUM>. The pocket <NUM> extends below the horizontal planar surface. The pocket <NUM> opens upwards in a direction towards the front surface <NUM>.

In <FIG>, an upper edge portion of the fourth edge <NUM>, such as a long edge, comprises a vertically extending edge portion <NUM> extending from the front surface <NUM> followed by a bend, preferably a right-angle bend, inwards towards the centre of the panel. The bend may be a chamfered, right-angle bend. The bend is followed by a horizontal planar surface, wherein the first upper lip portion <NUM> may comprise said horizontal planar surface.

An upper edge portion of the third edge <NUM>, such a long edge, may comprise a vertically extending edge portion <NUM> extending from the front surface <NUM> followed by a bend, preferably a right-angle bend, outwards in a direction from the centre of the panel. The bend is followed by a horizontal planar surface, the first lower lip portion <NUM> may comprise said horizontal planar surface. A pocket <NUM> is provided in the third edge <NUM> between the vertically extending edge portion <NUM> and the horizontal planar surface. The pocket <NUM> extends sideways in a horizontal direction towards the centre of the panel <NUM> comprising the third edge <NUM>. The pocket <NUM> preferably does not extend below the horizontal planar surface. The pocket <NUM> opens sideways in a direction away from the third edge <NUM>.

In <FIG>, an upper edge portion of the fourth edge <NUM>, such as a long edge, comprises a vertically extending edge portion <NUM> extending from the front surface <NUM> followed by a bend, preferably a right-angle bend, inwards towards the centre of the panel. The bend may be a chamfered, right angle bend. The bend is followed by a horizontal planar surface, wherein the first upper lip portion <NUM> may comprise said horizontal planar surface.

An upper edge portion of the third edge <NUM>, such a long edge, may comprise a vertically extending edge portion <NUM> extending from the front surface <NUM> followed by a bend, preferably a right-angle bend, outwards in a direction from the centre of the panel. The bend is followed by a horizontal planar surface, the first lower lip portion <NUM> may comprise said horizontal planar surface. A pocket <NUM> is provided in the third edge <NUM> between the vertically extending edge portion <NUM> and the horizontal planar surface. The pocket <NUM> extends into the third edge in a direction having an angle relative the vertically extending edge portion <NUM>, such as an angle between <NUM>-<NUM> degrees, such as a <NUM>-degree angle. The pocket <NUM> may extend below the horizontal planar surface. The pocket <NUM> opens at least partially sideways in a direction away from the third edge <NUM>. The pocket <NUM> may have an opening that corresponds to the length (in the side view of <FIG>) of a chamfer.

In <FIG>, an upper edge portion of the fourth edge <NUM>, such as a long edge, comprises a vertically extending edge portion <NUM> extending from the front surface <NUM> followed by a bend, preferably a right-angle bend, inwards towards the centre of the panel comprising the fourth edge <NUM>. The bend may be a chamfered, right-angle bend. The bend is followed by a horizontal planar surface, wherein the first upper lip portion <NUM> may comprise said horizontal planar surface.

An upper edge portion of the third edge <NUM>, such a long edge, may comprise a vertically extending edge portion <NUM> extending from the front surface <NUM> followed by a contiguous first bend inwards into the third edge <NUM>, such as a <NUM>-<NUM> degree bend. The first bend is followed by a contiguous second bend, such as an acute bend, outwards in a direction from the centre of the panel. The second bend is followed by a contiguous horizontal planar surface, the first lower lip portion <NUM> may comprise said horizontal planar surface. A pocket <NUM> is thereby provided in the third edge <NUM> between the vertically extending edge portion <NUM> and the horizontal planar surface. The pocket <NUM> extends into the third edge. The pocket <NUM> preferably does not extend below the horizontal planar surface. The pocket <NUM> opens at least partially sideways in a direction away from the third edge <NUM>. The pocket <NUM> may have an opening that is larger than the length (in the side view of <FIG>) of a chamfer.

An upper edge portion of the third edge <NUM>, such a long edge, may comprise a vertically extending edge portion <NUM> extending from the front surface <NUM> followed by a contiguous acute bend outwards in a direction from the centre of the panel. The bend is followed by a contiguous planar surface, the first lower lip portion <NUM> may comprise said horizontal planar surface. The planar surface may form an angle with a horizontal plane H. A pocket <NUM> is thereby provided in the third edge <NUM> between the contiguous planar surface and the first upper lip portion <NUM>. The pocket <NUM> opens at least partially sideways in a direction away from the third edge <NUM>. The pocket <NUM> may have an opening that is larger than the length (in the side view of <FIG>) of a chamfer.

In 19A-19B, an upper edge portion of the fourth edge <NUM>, such as a long edge, comprises a vertically extending edge portion <NUM> extending from the front surface <NUM> followed by a bend, preferably a right-angle bend, inwards towards the centre of the panel. The bend is a chamfered edge between the vertically extending edge portion <NUM> and the first upper lip portion <NUM>. The chamfered edge providing a first pocket <NUM> between the third edge <NUM> and the fourth edge <NUM>. The bend is followed by a horizontal planar surface, wherein the first upper lip portion <NUM> may comprise said horizontal planar surface.

An upper edge portion of the third edge <NUM>, such a long edge, may comprise a vertically extending edge portion <NUM> extending from the front surface <NUM> followed by a bend, preferably a right-angle bend, outwards in a direction from the centre of the panel. The bend is followed by a horizontal planar surface, the first lower lip portion <NUM> may comprise said horizontal planar surface. A second pocket <NUM>' is provided in the vertically extending edge portion <NUM>. Then second pocket <NUM>' extends sideways in a horizontal direction towards the centre of the panel <NUM> comprising the third edge <NUM>. The second pocket <NUM>' may not extend below the horizontal planar surface. The second pocket <NUM>' opens sideways in a direction away from the third edge <NUM>. The second pocket <NUM>' at least partially opens to the first pocket <NUM> and is thus at least partially in direct fluid communication with the first pocket <NUM> when the third edge <NUM> is configured in assembled position with the fourth edge <NUM>.

Although the pockets <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>' have been explained in relation to the third edge <NUM> and fourth edge <NUM> of the panel, such as long edges, it should be appreciated that corresponding pockets may be formed between the first edge <NUM> and second edge of the panel, such as short edges.

<FIG> shows the invention wherein the first lower lip portion <NUM> is disposed in a first plane H1 (see <FIG>) and the second lower lip portion <NUM> being disposed in a second plane H2 (see <FIG>) being displaced from the first plane H1.

In a preferred embodiment, the first plane H1 may be disposed <NUM> to <NUM> below the second plane H2, preferably <NUM> to <NUM> below the second plane H2, more preferably about <NUM>, more preferably <NUM>. These ranges of distance between H1 and H2 may advantageously be combined with panels having a total thickness, in the thickness direction T, ranging between <NUM> to <NUM>. Thereby, the second lower lip portion <NUM> is disposed above the first lower lip portion <NUM> and closer to the front surface <NUM> than the first lower lip portion <NUM>. This embodiment may advantageously be combined with any of the embodiments of the pocket <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> described in relation to <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> or <FIG>.

In a further preferred embodiment, the first plane H1 may be disposed <NUM> to <NUM> below the second plane H2, preferably about <NUM> to <NUM>, more preferably <NUM>. These ranges of distance between H1 and H2 may advantageously be combined with panels having a total thickness, in the thickness direction T, being at least <NUM>, such as in the range of <NUM> and <NUM>. Thereby, the second lower lip portion <NUM> is disposed above the first lower lip portion <NUM> and closer to the front surface <NUM> than the first lower lip portion <NUM>. This embodiment may advantageously be combined with any of the embodiments of the pocket <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> described in relation to <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> or <FIG>.

By configuring the second lower lip portion <NUM> in a second plane H2 being disposed above the plane of the first lower lip portion <NUM>, it may be facilitated that a fluid, such as water, may flow from the second lower lip portion <NUM> to the first lower lip portion <NUM>. The fluid may flow under the action of gravity.

By configuring the second lower lip portion <NUM> in a second plane H2 being disposed above the plane of the first lower lip portion <NUM>, improved resistance to water penetration may be facilitated in a floor comprising a plurality of panels according the embodiment configured in assembled position.

<FIG> shows an embodiment wherein the second upper lip portion <NUM> and the second lower lip portion <NUM> are arranged in a second plane H2 when the panels are configured in assembled position, such as when a first edge <NUM> is configured in assembled position with a second edge <NUM>.

Claim 1:
A set of similar or essentially identical building panels, such as a floor panels or wall panels, wherein each building panel comprising
a first mechanical locking system at respective parallel and opposite third edge (<NUM>) and fourth edge (<NUM>) being long edges of the building panel, the first mechanical locking system configured to cooperate for horizontal and vertical locking between two adjacent building panels (<NUM>, <NUM>), preferably by means of a folding motion, and
a second mechanical locking system at respective parallel and opposite first edge (<NUM>) and second edge (<NUM>), such as short edges, configured to cooperate for horizontal and vertical locking of two adjacent building panels (<NUM>, <NUM>), preferably by means of a vertical motion, such as vertical folding,
wherein an upper edge portion of one of the third edge (<NUM>) or fourth edge (<NUM>), preferably the third edge (<NUM>), comprises a first lower lip portion (<NUM>) configured to cooperate with a first upper lip portion (<NUM>) of an upper edge portion of the other of the third edge (<NUM>) and fourth edge (<NUM>) of an adjacent building panel (<NUM>) when said third and fourth edges (<NUM>, <NUM>) are assembled in locking position,
wherein an upper edge portion of one of the first edge (<NUM>) or second edge (<NUM>) comprises a second lower lip portion (<NUM>) configured to cooperate with a second upper lip portion (<NUM>) of an upper edge portion of the other of the first edge (<NUM>) and second edge (<NUM>) of an adjacent building panel (<NUM>) when said first and second edges (<NUM>, <NUM>) are assembled in locking position,
wherein the first and second mechanical locking system each comprises a locking tongue (11i, 12i, <NUM>) and a tongue groove (11j, 12j, 13j), wherein said lip portions (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) are disposed between a respective of said locking tongue (11i, 12i, <NUM>) or tongue groove (11j, 12j, 13j) and the front surface (<NUM>) of the building panel,
characterized in that
the first lower lip portion (<NUM>) is disposed in a first plane (H1) and the second lower lip portion (<NUM>) is disposed in a second plane (H2) being displaced from the first plane (H1).