FIELD OF INVENTION

The present inventive concept pertains to a replacement of building panels, such as a floor panels, wall panels or ceiling panels, in particular aspects of the disclosure pertains to a replacement panel and a connecting element for connecting a replacement panel to one or more adjacent floor panels.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

Building panels, in particular floor panels, are commonly susceptible to wear and damage. Accordingly, it may be desirable to replace one or more panels of a floor covering.

Known floor panels typically comprise one or more mechanical locking systems for assembling of similar panels in horizontal and vertical locking position.

A damaged panel may be firstly cut and subsequently removed since it still mechanically locked to the installed panels by means of the mechanical locking systems. Thereby, the removal results in a predetermined sized slot in the floor lay of panels which size essentially cannot be altered. It is thus a problem that the replacement panel preferably is to be mounted in such a slot between already installed panels because typically the adjacent installed panels may essentially not be displaceable in a horizontal direction.

Known systems are associated with drawbacks in providing a user-friendly solution to this technical problem.

Replacement floor panels may according to some known systems be locked in position by means of glue or other adhesive to a substrate, such as a subfloor. It follows that replacement of a damaged floor panel may be time- consuming and costly. In addition, a glued floor panel may not be desirable to install in an otherwise floating floor, i.e. horizontally displaceable e.g. due to thermal expansion, moisture etc. As such, there is room for improvement in the technical field.

SUMMARY

It is an object of the present inventive concept to provide user-friendly means for replacing a floor panel.

It is a further object to provide means for replacing a floor panel which facilitates improved economy of time, such as facilitating a reduction in time of installation. It is a further object to provide a system facilitating that a replacement panel is displaceable in installed state, such as in a floating floor, in particular in a horizontal direction.

In a first aspect, the invention pertains to a connecting element for locking a replacement floor panel to an adjacent floor panel, such as an installed floor panel of a floor, such as a floating floor.

In a second aspect, the invention pertains to a replacement floor panel.

In a third aspect, the invention pertains to a set comprising the connecting element according to the first aspect and a replacement panel according to the second aspect.

In a fourth aspect, the invention pertains to a method for installing a replacement panel according to the second aspect, preferably by means of a connecting device according to the first aspect.

At least some of these and other objects and advantages that will be apparent from the description have been achieved by a connecting element configured for locking a replacement panel to an adjacent installed first panel. The connecting element comprising a substantially flat shape, preferably elongated shape, extending in a horizontal plane, a first locking strip member and a contiguous second locking strip member configured to project in the horizontal plane in opposite directions from respective sides of a longitudinal plane arranged transverse the horizontal plane and extending along the longitudinal length of the element. The first strip member comprising a first locking element configured to cooperate, in locking position, with a first downward open locking groove of the replacement panel, and the second strip member comprising a second locking element configured to cooperate, in locking position, with a first downwards open locking groove of the adjacent first panel, the locking elements projecting in a direction perpendicular the horizontal plane.

At least some of these and other objects and advantages that will be apparent from the description have been achieved by a replacement panel, such as a floor panel, wall panel or ceiling panel. The replacement panel adapted for locking, preferably simultaneous locking, such as horizontal and preferably vertical locking, to one or more, such as two, three or four, adjacent floor panels by means of a folding displacement of the replacement panel. The replacement panel comprising: at a first edge, such as a short edge, a downwards open first locking groove configured to receive a first locking element, such as a first locking element of a connecting element, by means of a vertical displacement of the first edge for horizontal locking of the replacement panel and an edge of an adjacent panel, such as the fourth edge of the first panel. The replacement panel may preferably comprise a sideways open displacement groove configured to receive a displaceable locking tongue configured to cooperate with a tongue groove of an edge of an adjacent panel, such as the fourth edge of the first panel, for vertical locking of the replacement panel and the adjacent panel by means of said vertical displacement of the first edge. The replacement panel may further comprise at a second edge, such as a long edge, a downwards open second locking groove of the replacement panel, configured to receive a locking element of a locking strip an edge of an adjacent panel, such as the third edge of the second panel, by means of a vertical displacement of the second edge for horizontal locking of the replacement panel and an the adjacent panel, and preferably a sideways open displacement groove configured to receive a displaceable locking tongue configured to cooperate with a tongue groove of an edge of an adjacent panel, such as the third edge of the second panel, for vertical locking of the replacement panel and the adjacent panel, by means of said vertical displacement of the second edge.

Further advantages being set forth in the detailed description, preferred embodiments are set forth in appended dependent claims and the items section.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The present invention will by way of example be described in more detail with reference to the appended schematic drawings, which shows embodiments of the present invention.

FIG.1 shows, according to an embodiment, a perspective view of installed panels and a kit comprising a replacement panel and a connecting element.

FIG.2 shows the embodiment of FIG.1 with the connecting element arranged in a locking position.

FIG.3 shows the embodiment of FIG.1 and a folding displacement of the replacement panel.

FIG.4 shows the embodiment of FIG.1 with the replacement panel in locking position with adjacent installed panels.

FIG.5 shows details of the embodiment of FIG.2.

FIG.6 shows a replacement panel according to an embodiment.

FIG.7A is a perspective view of a connecting element according to an embodiment. FIG.7B is another perspective view of the connecting element of FIG.7A.

FIG.7C is a transverse cross-sectional view of the connecting element of

FIG.7A.

FIG.8 shows a first edge of the replacement panel and an adjacent edge in locking position, according to an embodiment.

FIG.9 shows a second edge of the replacement panel and an adjacent edge in locking position, according to an embodiment.

FIG.10 shows a third edge of the replacement panel and an adjacent edge in locking position, according to an embodiment.

FIG.11 shows a fourth edge of the replacement panel and an adjacent edge in locking position, according to an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to FIG.1 -FIG.4, there is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment, a set of installed panels 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, a replacement panel 5 according to an exemplary embodiment and a connecting element. An embodiment of the replacement panel 5 and an embodiment of the connecting element 7 may according to aspects form a kit 10 for replacing a panel.

FIG.1 -FIG.4 show installed floor panels 1, 2, 3 and 4 arranged in locking position around a vacant slot 6. The slot 6 may typically be the result of a damaged floor panel having been removed, for example by means for removing a panel, not limited to cutting of the damaged panel. The replacement panel 5 is intended to be installed in the slot 6. The installed replacement panel 5, as shown in FIG.4, may preferably engage with one or more, preferably each of the adjacent installed panels 1 , 2, 3, 4. The installed floor panels may comprise at respective edges a mechanical locking system for horizontal and vertical locking of adjacent panels.

The installed replacement panel 5 may engage with the respective mechanical locking systems of the adjacent installed panels for vertical and/or horizontal locking of the replacement panel to one or more of the installed panels.

In a preferred embodiment, the respective edges 51, 52, 53, 54 of the replacement panel 5 comprises a mechanical locking system configured to cooperate with the applicable mechanical locking system of the adjacent panel.

In particular, the first edge 51 , preferably also the second edge 52 and more preferably additionally the third edge 53, of the replacement panel 5 comprises a mechanical locking system configured to cooperate with the applicable mechanical locking system of a respective adjacent edge 14, 23, 41 of the adjacent panel for horizontal and vertical locking by means of a vertical displacement, such as in the engagement direction E.

Thus, the replacement panel 5 may comprise mechanical locking systems for vertical locking to each of the adjacent installed panels. In particular, the replacement panel may comprise mechanical locking systems for horizontal locking to one or more, preferably each of the adjacent installed panels.

Referring to FIG.2, the connecting element 7 has been positioned partially underneath an adjacent installed first panel 1. The connecting element 7 may in this position cooperate with the mechanical locking system provided at an edge of the first panel adjacent the empty slot in shape of an opening 6, for horizontal locking of the connecting element to the first panel 1. A detailed view is shown in FIG.5. A more detailed view of the cooperation between the connecting element 7 and the mechanical locking system of the first panel 1 is illustrated in FIG.8.

Referring to FIG.3, there is shown the replacement panel 5 being positioned partially underneath an adjacent installed third panel 3.

As derivable from FIG.3, the replacement panel 5 and the third panel 3 may be configured in locking position (see FIG.10) by means of a folding displacement F of the replacement panel 5, such as about a third edge 53 thereof.

The said folding displacement F may result in a vertical displacement, such as in the engagement direction E, of the first edge 51 relative an adjacent fourth edge 14 of the installed first panel 1 , see FIG.8.

The said folding displacement F may result in a vertical displacement, such as in the engagement direction E, of the second edge 52 relative an adjacent third edge 23 of the installed second panel 2, see FIG.9.

The said folding displacement F may result in a vertical displacement, such as in the engagement direction E, of the fourth edge 54 relative an adjacent first edge 41 of the installed fourth panel 4, see FIG.11. FIG.4 shows the installed replacement panel 5. The replacement panel 5 may in this position cooperate with the mechanical locking system provided at an adjacent second edge 32 of the third panel 3 adjacent the empty slot 6, for horizontal and preferably vertical locking of the replacement panel 5 to the third panel 3.

Referring to FIG 5, there is shown a connecting element 7 according to an embodiment. At least an adjacent fourth edge 14 of adjacent panel 1 may be displaced vertically in a direction opposite the engagement direction E in response e.g. to folding of the adjacent first panel 1 , whereby the connecting element 5 may be arranged under the fourth edge 14. Subsequently, the fourth edge 14 may be displaced vertically in the engagement direction E towards the connecting element 7, such that a first locking element 73 is received in a first locking groove 510 of the replacement panel 5 in response to the vertical displacement.

A detailed view of the cooperation between the replacement panel 5 and the mechanical locking system of the third panel 3 is illustrated in the cross- sectional view of section C-C (see FIG. 4) in FIG.10.

FIG.6 shows a replacement floor panel according to an embodiment. The panel may be configured for simultaneous locking with four adjacent floor panels by means of a continuous displacement of the panel. The panel may comprise:

At a first edge 51 , such as a short edge, a downwards open first locking groove 510 configured to receive a first locking element 73, such as the first locking element 73 of the connecting element 7, by means of a vertical displacement of the replacement panel 5 for horizontal locking of the replacement panel 5 to an adjacent panel, such as the fourth edge 14 of the first panel 1 , and a sideways open displacement groove 511 configured to receive a displaceable locking tongue 512 for vertical locking of the replacement 5 panel to the adjacent first panel 1. The displaceable locking tongue 512 is provided between the tongue groove 510 and the front surface 15 of the panel 5, as shown in FIG.8. The displaceable locking tongue 512 of the first edge 51 of the replacement panel 5 projects from the first vertical plane VP1 in locking position of the tongue 512, as illustrated in FIG.8. At a second edge 52, such as a long edge, a downwards open second locking groove 520 of the replacement panel 5, configured to receive a locking element 232 of a locking strip 231 an adjacent panel, such as the third edge 23 of the second panel 2, by means of a vertical displacement of the second edge 52 for horizontal locking of the replacement panel 5 to an adjacent panel, such as the third edge 23 of the second panel 2, and a sideways open displacement groove 521 configured to receive a displaceable locking tongue 522 configured to cooperate with a tongue groove 230 of an adjacent panel, such as the third edge 23 of the second panel 2, for vertical locking of the replacement panel 5 and an adjacent panel, such as the second panel 2.

The displaceable locking tongue 522 is provided between the tongue groove 520 and the front surface 15 of the panel 5, as shown in FIG.9. The displaceable locking tongue 522 of the second edge 52 of the replacement panel 5 projects from the second vertical plane VP2 in locking position of the tongue 522, as illustrated in FIG.9.

At a third edge 53, such as a long edge, a locking strip 530 configured to extend in a horizontal plane HP in locking position and comprising an upwards protruding first locking element 532 of the replacement panel 5. The first locking element 532 configured to be received in a downwards open locking groove 320 of an adjacent panel, such as the second edge 32 of the third panel 3, by means of the folding displacement F of the replacement panel 5, for horizontal locking of the replacement panel with the third panel. The third edge 53 may preferably further comprise a tongue groove 530 configured to receive a locking tongue 321 of an adjacent panel, such as the second edge 32 of the third panel 3, by means of the folding displacement F of the replacement panel 5, for vertical locking of the replacement panel 5 and the third panel 3.

At a fourth edge 54, such as a short edge, a tongue groove 541 configured to receive a displaceable locking tongue 411 of an adjacent panel, such as the first edge 41 of the fourth panel 4, by means of the vertical displacement, such as in the engagement direction E, of the fourth edge 54 of the replacement panel 5. The fourth edge 54 may preferably further comprise a downwards open third locking groove 540 configured to receive a locking element 413 of an adjacent panel, such as the first edge 41 of the fourth panel 4, by means of said vertical displacement, such as in the engagement direction E, of the fourth edge 54 of the replacement panel 5. The displaceable locking tongue 411 is provided between the locking strip 412 and the front surface 15 of the panel 5, as shown in FIG.11.

The tongue groove 541 of the fourth edge 54 of the replacement panel 5 is provided between the tongue groove 540 and the front surface 15 of the panel 5, as shown in FIG.11.

FIGS 7A-7C show an embodiment of the connecting element 7. The connecting element 7 comprises a substantially flat elongated rectangular shape. However, other shapes are conceivable, such as essentially square.

The first and second locking strip members 71, 72 may extend with an essentially uniform shape from respective sides of a longitudinal plane LP, as derivable from FIGS 7B and FIG.7C. The longitudinal plane LP may be centrally arranged in the connecting element 7 and may thus constitute a symmetry line of the connecting element 7.

The connecting element 7 may be configured such that said first and second locking strip members 71, 72 comprises an essentially uniform shape on both sides of a first vertical plane VP1 in locking position of the replacement panel 5 and the first panel 1.

FIG.8 shows according to an embodiment the A-A (see FIG. 4) cross- sectional view of a first edge 51 of replacement panel 5 in locking position with the fourth edge 14 of the adjacent first panel 1. The connecting element 7 may be configured for locking of the replacement floor panel 5 to an adjacent installed adjacent panel, such as the first panel 1. Respective upper edge portions of the panels 1 , 5 in the locking position may define a first vertical plane VP1. A longitudinally extending and preferably centrally arranged plane LP of the connecting element may be configured to be arranged parallel said first vertical plane VP1 in the locking position. The connecting element 7 may comprise a first locking strip member 71, and a second locking strip member 72 which may each project in a horizontal direction from a respective side of said longitudinal plane LP.

Each strip member 71 , 72 may comprise a locking element 73, 74; the first locking strip member 71 comprising a first locking element 72 and the second locking strip member 72 comprising a second locking element 74. The locking elements 73, 74 projecting in a direction perpendicular the horizontal plane HP.

The first locking element 73 being configured to cooperate, in a locking position with the replacement panel 5, in particular with a first downward open locking groove 510 of the replacement panel 5. The second locking element 74 being configured to cooperate, in a locking position with an adjacent panel, such as the first panel 1 , with and a second downward open locking groove 140 of the adjacent panel 1.

The connecting element 7 may be substantially symmetric on both sides of the longitudinal plane LP.

The first locking element 73 may comprise a first locking surface 73’. The first locking surface 73’ may be configured such that at least a portion thereof cooperates or mates or abuts a corresponding locking surface 510’ of the first locking groove 510 of the replacement panel 5, in locking position of the replacement panel 5 and the connecting element 7, for horizontal locking of the replacement panel 5 and the connecting element 7.

The first locking surface 73’ may be contiguous with the strip groove 75.

The second locking element 74 may comprise a second locking surface 74’. The second locking surface 74’ may be configured such that at least a portion thereof cooperates or mates or abuts a corresponding locking surface 140’ of the first locking groove 140 of the first panel 1 , in locking position of the first panel 1 and the first panel 1 and the connecting element 7, for horizontal locking of the replacement panel 5 and the connecting element 7.

The second locking surface 74’ may be contiguous with the strip groove 75.

The connecting element 5 may be configured such that said first locking element 73 is received in the first locking groove 510 by means of a vertical displacement of the replacement panel 5, in particular the first edge 51 thereof, and preferably such that the second locking element 74 is received in the second locking groove 74 by means of a vertical displacement of the adjacent panel 1 , in particular the fourth edge 14 thereof, for locking of the floor panels 1 , 5 in a horizontal direction apart from each other and perpendicular to the longitudinal plane LP. As mentioned, there is shown in FIG.8 a connecting element 7 according to an embodiment. At least an adjacent fourth edge 14 of adjacent panel 1 may be displaced vertically in a direction opposite the engagement direction E in response e.g. to folding of the adjacent first panel 1 , whereby the connecting element 5 may be arranged under the fourth edge 14. Subsequently, the fourth edge 14 may be displaced vertically in the engagement direction E towards element 5, such that a first locking element 73 is received in the first locking groove 510 in response to the vertical displacement.

The connecting element 7 may be configured such that the longitudinal plane LP is parallel and essentially aligned with the first vertical plane VP1 in locking position of the replacement panel 5 and the adjacent first panel.

The connecting element 7 may be configured such that the first locking element 73 is received in the first locking groove 510 by means of an essentially exclusive vertical displacement of the replacement panel 5, or an exclusive vertical displacement of the replacement panel 5.

The second locking element 74 may be received in the second locking groove 140 by means of an essentially exclusively vertical displacement of the adjacent first panel 1 , or exclusively a vertical displacement of the adjacent first panel 1.

The connecting element 7 may be configured to bear/rest on a substrate or subfloor, such as in locking position of the replacement panel 5 and the connecting element 7 and/or in locking position of the adjacent first panel 1 and the connecting element 7.

The connecting element 7 may be configured such that the replacement panel 5 at least partially bear on the first locking strip member 71 in locking position of the replacement panel 5 and the connecting element 7. The connecting element 7 may be configured such that the first panel 1 at least partially bear on the second locking strip member 72 in locking position of the first panel 1 and the connecting element 7.

The second locking strip member 72 may be contiguous with the first locking strip member 71 such as to form a continuous surface extending from the first locking element 73 on one side of the longitudinal plane LP to the opposite side of the longitudinal plane LP to the second locking element 74.

A first distance d1 from longitudinal plane LP to the first locking element 73 may equal a second distance d2 from the longitudinal plane LP to the second locking element 74, as shown in FIG.7C.

Typically, neither one of the first edge 51 of the panel nor the adjacent fourth edge 14 of the adjacent first panel 1 project from the first vertical plane VP1 , in said locking position of the replacement panel 5 and the adjacent first panel 1 with the connecting element 7. Preferably, only the displaceable locking tongue projects from the first vertical plane VP1 , as shown in FIG.8.

The connecting element 7 may be configured to extend along at least part of a short edge, such as the first edge 51 of the replacement panel 5 and/or the fourth edge of the adjacent first panel 1.

The first locking element 73 and/or the second locking element 74 may extend continuously along the longitudinal L length of the connecting element 7.

The locking elements 73, 74 may delimit a strip groove 75, said strip groove 75 preferably extending in a horizontal plane between the locking elements 73, 74, as shown in FIG.7C and FIG.8.

The strip groove 75 may be configured to receive at least part of the first edge 51 of the replacement panel 5 and at least part of the fourth edge 14 of the adjacent first panel 1. The replacement panel 5 may at least partially bear on the strip groove 75 in locking position. Correspondingly, at least part of the first panel 1 may bear on the strip groove in locking position. Thus, the panels 5, 1 may at least partially bear on the strip groove 75 in locking position.

The first locking strip member 71 may be disposed on one side of the longitudinal plane LP and second locking strip member 72 may be formed as an opposite a mirror image of the first locking strip member 71 on the opposite side of the longitudinal plane. Thus, the longitudinal plane LP may constitute a line of symmetry of the connecting element 7. The locking strip members 71, 72, in the locking position, may extend essentially symmetrically from the first vertical plane VP1 and/or the longitudinal plane LP.

The connecting element 7 may be horizontally unlocked the replacement panel 5 and the adjacent installed first panel 1 in a vertical direction, such as a direction opposite the engagement direction E, in locking position of the adjacent panels, preferably the panels 5, 1 are vertically disconnected the connecting element 7 such that the panels may be displaced in a direction opposite the engagement direction E.

The connecting element 7 may be configured to unlock said adjacent floor panels 5, 1 by means of vertical displacement of the panels 5, 1.

The first locking strip member 71 may comprise a locking surface 73’ configured to cooperate or mate or abut a corresponding locking surface 510’ of the first locking groove 510, for horizontal locking of the replacement panel 5 and the connecting element 7, preferably for horizontal locking of the replacement panel 5 and the first panel 1.

The second locking strip member 71 may comprise a locking surface 74’ configured to cooperate or mate or abut a corresponding locking surface 140’ of the first locking groove 140 of the fourth edge 14 of the adjacent first panel 1 , for horizontal locking of the first panel 1 and the connecting element 7, preferably for horizontal locking of the replacement panel 5 and the first panel 1.

The connecting element 7 may be made from a polymer, plastic or metal or is wood based, such as particle board, plywood, HDF, MDF or compact laminate.

The replacement panel 5 may be wood based, such as particle board, plywood, HDF, MDF, or ceramic tile, stone based, or compact laminate.

The arranging of the second locking element 74 of connecting element 7 in the locking groove 140 of the first panel 1 may comprise one or more of: displacing the fourth edge 14 in a vertical direction opposite engagement direction E, horizontal sliding of the connecting element 7, folding or pivoting of the connecting element 7, such as a rotating movement. The connecting element 7 may be configured to be divided, such as broken, along a transverse plane thereof into smaller similar sub elements, preferably by comprising one or more transversally extending grooves or perforations.

FIG.9 shows the B-B (see FIG. 4) cross-sectional view of the second edge 52 assembled in locking position with an adjacent third edge 23 of an adjacent second panel 2, according to an embodiment.

The second edge 52, such as a long edge, may comprise a downwards open second locking groove 520 of the replacement panel 5. The second locking groove 520 may be configured to receive a locking element 232 of a locking strip 231 an edge of an adjacent panel, such as the third edge 23 of the second panel 2, preferably by means of a vertical displacement of the second edge 52.

Consequently, the replacement panel 5 and the adjacent panel 2 are assembled in a horizontally locked position.

Preferably, the second edge further comprises a sideways open displacement groove 521 configured to receive one or more displaceable locking tongue 522. The displaceable locking tongue may be configured to translate inside the displacement groove 521 between a retracted unlocking position and a protruding locking position. The tongue 522 may in the locking position project from the second vertical plane VP2. In the locking position, the displaceable locking tongue 522 cooperates with a tongue groove 230 of the third edge 23 of the second panel 2. Accordingly, in the locking position of the displaceable tongue 522, the second edge 52 and the third edge 23 are assembled in locking position. The displaceable locking tongue 522 may be urged by an upper edge portion of the third edge 23 from the protruding locking position to the retracted unlocking position under the action of the downward vertical displacement of the second edge 52 in the engagement direction E, whereby the third edge 23 pushes the tongue 522 in an unlocking direction, i.e. into the displacement groove 521. Subsequently, the tongue 522 springs back in the locking direction.

Thus, the second edge 52 and the third edge 23 are assembled in a vertically locking position by means of a vertical displacement of the second edge 52. FIG.10 shows the C-C (see FIG. 4) sectional cross-sectional view of the third edge 53 assembled in locking position with an adjacent second edge 32 of an adjacent third panel 3, according to an embodiment.

The replacement panel 5 may comprise at a third edge 53, such as a long edge, a locking strip 530 comprising an upwards protruding first locking element 532 of the replacement panel 5. The first locking element 532 may be configured to be received in a downwards open locking groove 320 of an adjacent panel, such as the second edge 32 of the third panel 3, by means of a folding displacement F of the replacement panel 5, for horizontal locking of the replacement panel 5 and an adjacent panel, such as the third panel 3. Preferably, the third edge 53 comprises a tongue groove 530 configured to receive a locking tongue 321 of an adjacent panel, such as the second edge 32 of the third panel 3, by means of a said folding displacement F of the replacement panel 5, such as about the third edge 53, for vertical locking of the replacement panel 5 and an adjacent panel, such as the third panel 3.

FIG.11 shows the D-D (see FIG. 4) cross-sectional view of the fourth edge 54 assembled in locking position with an adjacent first edge 41 of adjacent fourth panel 4, according to an embodiment.

The replacement panel 5 may further comprise at a fourth edge 54, such as a short edge, a downwards open third locking groove 540 configured to receive a locking element 413 of an adjacent edge, such as the first edge 41 of the fourth panel 4, by means of a vertical displacement, such as in the engagement direction E, of the replacement panel 5 for horizontal locking of the replacement panel 5 and an adjacent edge, such as the first edge 41 of the fourth panel 4. Preferably, fourth edge 54 further comprises a tongue groove 541 configured to receive a displaceable locking tongue 411 of an edge of an adjacent panel, such as the first edge 41 of the fourth panel 4, by means of said vertical displacement of the replacement panel 5, for vertical locking of the replacement panel 5 and the adjacent panel 4.

In a third aspect, there is disclosed a kit 10 comprising a connecting element 7 according to the first aspect and a replacement panel 5 according to the second aspect, see FIG.1. The connecting element 7 and the replacement panel 5 may be separate entities.

The connecting element 7 and the replacement panel 5 may be uncoupled at least in a vertical direction, such as opposite the engagement direction E, in locking position of the connecting element 7 and the replacement panel 5.

In a fourth aspect, there is disclosed a method for installing a replacement panel, preferably replacement panel 5, in an open slot 6 adjacent installed panels 1, 2, 3, 4. As have been elucidated herein, the replacement panel 5 may be configured to obtain a locking position with adjacent floor panels along all four edges, preferably simultaneously and additionally preferably by means of a single displacement of the replacement panel 5, such as a folding displacement as shown in FIG.3. The method preferably comprising the steps of: providing a connecting element 7 configured for horizontal locking of the replacement panel 5 and an adjacent panel, such as the first panel 1 , in a direction apart from each other, such as perpendicular the first vertical plane VP1 ; arranging the second locking element 74 of the connecting element 7 in the locking groove 140 of the first panel 1 , preferably such that the second locking surface 74’ cooperates with the locking surface 140’ of the locking groove 140 of the first panel 1 ; receiving a first locking element 73 of the connecting element 7 in a first locking groove 510 of the replacement panel 5 by means of a folding displacement of the replacement panel 5, preferably such that the first locking surface 73’ cooperates with the locking surface 510’ of the locking groove 510 of the replacement panel 5;

The method may further comprise arranging the locking tongue 321 of the adjacent third panel 3 at the first tongue groove 532 of a third edge 53 of the replacement panel 5, such as arranging the locking tongue 321 adjacent an opening of the first tongue groove 532 or arranging at least a portion of the locking tongue 321 in the first tongue groove 532. This step may be performed while the replacement panel 5 is arranged with an angle relative the third panel 3, as derivable from FIG.3.

The step of arranging the second locking element 74 may comprise displacing the fourth edge 14 of the first panel 1 in an essentially vertical direction V and preferably arranging at least a portion of the connecting element 7 underneath the fourth edge 14 and preferably displacing the fourth edge 14 of the first panel 1 in an essentially vertical direction for receiving the second locking element 74 of the connecting element 7 in a first locking groove 140 of the first panel 1.

The connecting element 7 may be a connecting element 7 according to the first aspect.

The replacement panel 5 may be the replacement panel 5 according the second aspect.

The said displacement of the replacement panel 5 may be a folding displacement of the replacement panel 5, such performing a pivoting or rotating displacement of the replacement panel 5, preferably about the third edge 53, as derivable from FIG.3.

The adjacent panels 1 , 2, 3, 4 may comprise the features of the panels 1 ,

2, 3, 4 as explained in relation to the embodiments of FIG.8, FIG.9, FIG.10 and FIG: 11. Thus, the adjacent panels may comprise, preferably each comprises, a first mechanical locking system at opposite second and third long edges 23, 32 configured for horizontal and vertical locking of essentially identical panels by means of a folding displacement. The said first mechanical locking system may comprise a locking tongue, for such as locking tongue 321 and a tongue groove, such as tongue groove 230, arrangement configured for horizontal locking to essentially identical panels by means of a folding displacement. Preferably the first mechanical locking system further comprises a locking groove, such as locking groove 320, for receiving a locking element, such as locking element 232, by means of a folding displacement of a panel, for vertical locking of the two adjacent panels.

The adjacent panels 1 , 2, 3, 4 may further comprise a second mechanical locking system at opposite first and fourth short edges, such as the first edge 41 of the fourth panel 4 and the fourth edge 14 of the first panel 1 , configured for horizontal and vertical locking of essentially identical panels by means of a vertical displacement of a first edge of a panel, such as the first edge 41 , relative a fourth edge of an adjacent panel, such as the fourth edge 14. The upper joint edges, i.e. respective upper edge portions, of the panels in the locking position define a first vertical plane VP1 , wherein said first short edge comprises a locking strip configured to project in a horizontal plane HP from said vertical plane VP. Generally herein, by “upper” is herein meant adjacent the upper surface 15 of a panel. By “upwards” is herein meant towards the upper surface 15 of a panel. By “lower” is meant adjacent the back surface 16 of a panel. By “downwards” is meant towards the back surface 16 of a panel.

In a fifth aspect, there is disclosed a method for producing a replacement panel, such as a floor panel, wall panel or ceiling panel. The method preferably comprising providing a panel comprising a first mechanical locking system at opposite second 52 and third 53 long edges, such as any one of the first 1 , second 2, third 3 or fourth panel 4. As has been explained herein, the first mechanical locking system may comprise a locking tongue and tongue groove arrangement, such as locking tongue 321 or originally existing locking tongue 523 (see dotted line of FIG.9), and such as tongue groove 530 or tongue groove 230. The arrangement configured for horizontal locking to essentially identical panels by means of a folding displacement of the panel. Respective upper portions of the second and third edges may preferably be configured to form a second vertical plane (VP2) in locking position with adjacent similar panels. The second edge 52 may comprise a locking tongue 523 configured to project in a horizontal plane HP from the second vertical plane VP2 into the tongue groove 230 of the third edge 23 of the adjacent similar panel 2.

The panels 1 , 2, 3, 4 further preferably comprising a second mechanical locking system at opposite first 51 and fourth short 54 edges configured for horizontal and vertical locking to essentially identical panels by means of a vertical displacement of the panel. Respective upper portions of the first edge 51 and fourth edge 54 in the locking position with the essentially identical panels may define a first vertical plane VP1.

The first short edge 51 may comprise a locking strip 513 configured to project in a horizontal plane HP from the first vertical plane VP1. The method preferably comprising: configuring, such as re-configuring, the first edge 51 by removing at least part of the locking strip 513 of the first edge 51 , preferably such that it does not project form the first vertical plane VP1 towards the adjacent panel in locking position.

Preferably the method comprises a step of forming in the first edge 51 , a downwards open locking groove 510; removing at least part of the locking tongue 523 in the second edge 52 (such as indicated with dotted line in FIG.8) such that the locking tongue 523 no longer is configured to project from said second vertical plane VP2 towards an adjacent panel in locking position with said panel.

Preferably the method further comprises a step of forming a sideways open second displacement groove 521 , such as opening towards an adjacent panel, in the second edge 52.

The displacement groove 521 may be configured to house a displaceable locking tongue 522 for vertical locking of the second edge 52 to adjacent panels.

Preferably, the method comprises arranging one or more displaceable locking tongue 522 in the second displacement groove 521.

The said forming may be carried out by means of machining such as milling or cutting or carving.

In any embodiment of the disclosure, the adjacent panels 1 , 2, 3, 4 may be standard panels in the meaning of this disclosure. The standard panels may be essentially identical panels. Thus, the respective first, second, third and fourth edges of the adjacent panels 1 , 2, 3, 4 may be essentially identical. An exemplary first edge 41 is shown in FIG.11. An exemplary second edge 32 is shown in FIG.10. An exemplary third edge 23 is shown in FIG. 9. An exemplary fourth edge 14 is shown in FIG. 8. The second edge and the third edge may be opposite long edges comprising a first mechanical locking system for assembling adjacent panels in locking position by means of a folding displacement (F) about and edge, such as the third edge. One of the second or third edges comprises a locking tongue 321 configured to be received in a locking groove 530 of the other of the second or third edge of an adjacent panel, for vertical locking to the two panels, and a locking groove 320 configured to receive a locking element 532 of the other of the second or third edge of the adjacent panel by means of said folding displacement (F) for horizontal locking of the two panels. The first edge and the fourth edge may be opposite short edges comprising a second mechanical locking system for assembling to adjacent panels by means of a vertical displacement, such as vertical folding due to said folding displacement (F). One of the first or fourth edges, such as the first edge 41 , may comprise a displaceable locking tongue 411 configured to be received in a tongue groove 141 of the other of the first or fourth edge of an adjacent panel, for vertical locking of the two panels, by means of said vertical displacement, and a locking element 413 configured to be received in a locking groove 140 of the other of the first of fourth edge by means of said vertical displacement.

In any embodiment of the disclosure, the displaceable tongue 411 , 522, 512, may be a separate tongue which is inserted into the respective displacement groove 410, 521 , 511. The displaceable tongue may be a flexible tongue and/or configured to displace in a displacement groove in a locking direction to a locking position and in an opposite unlocking direction to an unlocking position. The displaceable tongue may translate linearly in the displacement groove. The displaceable tongue may be displaced in the unlocking direction by means of being pushed by an adjacent edge of an adjacent panel by means of a vertical displacement of the adjacent edge or by means of a vertical displacement of the edge of the replacement panel comprising the displaceable tongue. The displaceable tongue may be displaced in the locking direction by means of resilient means, such as springs of feathers, engaging with for example an inner wall of the displacement groove. The resilient means may be integrally formed with the displaceable tongue. The displaceable tongue may be molded, such as injection molded. The displaceable tongue may be made from a polymer-based material, such as plastic.

ITEMS

ITEM 1. A connecting element 7 configured for locking a replacement panel 5 to an adjacent installed first panel 1 , said connecting element comprising a substantially flat shape, preferably elongated shape, extending in a horizontal plane HP, a first locking strip member 71 and a contiguous second locking strip member 72 configured to project in the horizontal plane HP in opposite directions from respective sides of a longitudinal plane LP arranged transverse the horizontal plane HP and extending along the longitudinal L length of the element 7; the first strip member 71 comprising a first locking element 73 configured to cooperate, in locking position, with a first downward open locking groove 510 of the replacement panel 5, and the second strip member 72 comprising a second locking element 74 configured to cooperate, in locking position, with a first downwards open locking groove 140 of the adjacent first panel 1, the locking elements 73, 74 projecting in a direction perpendicular the horizontal plane HP.

ITEM 2. The connecting element 7 according to item 1, wherein said first locking element 73 is configured to be received in said first locking groove 510 by means of a vertical displacement of the replacement panel 5 and the second locking element 74 is configured to be received in said first locking groove 140 of the first panel 1 by means of a vertical displacement of the first panel 1 , for horizontal locking of the replacement panel 5 and the first panel 1 in a direction apart from each other and perpendicular to said longitudinal plane LP.

ITEM 3. The connecting element 7 according to any one of the preceding items 1 or 2, wherein upper joint edges of the replacement panel 5 and the first panel 1 in the locking position define a first vertical plane VP1.

ITEM 4. The connecting element 7 according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 3, wherein the longitudinal plane LP is centrally arranged in the connecting element.

ITEM 5. The connecting element 7 according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 4, wherein the connecting element is essentially symmetric along the longitudinal plane LP, preferably and said connecting element is configured such that said longitudinal plane LP is arranged essentially parallel said first vertical plane VP1 in the locking position. ITEM 6. The connecting element 7 according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 5, wherein the connecting element 7 is configured such that the longitudinal plane LP is essentially aligned with the first vertical plane VP1 in locking position of the replacement panel 5 and the adjacent first panel 1.

ITEM 7. The connecting element 7 according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 6, wherein the connecting element 7 is configured such that the first locking element 73 is received in the first locking groove 510 by means of an exclusively vertical displacement of the replacement panel 5, or an exclusive vertical displacement of the replacement panel 5.

ITEM 8. The connecting element 7 according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 7, wherein the connecting element 7 is configured such that the second locking element 74 is received in the first locking groove 140 of the first panel 1 by means of an exclusively vertical displacement of the adjacent first panel 1 , or exclusively a vertical displacement of the adjacent first panel 1.

ITEM 9. The connecting element 7 according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 8, wherein the connecting element 7 is configured to bear on a substrate in locking position.

ITEM 10. The connecting element 7 according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 9, wherein the connecting element 7 is configured such that the replacement panel 5 at least partially bears on the first locking strip member 71 and/or such that the first panel 1 at least partially bears on the second locking strip member 72 in locking position.

ITEM 11. The connecting element 7 according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 10, wherein the second locking strip member 72 and the first locking strip member 71 form a continuous surface extending between the first locking element 73 and the second locking element 74.

ITEM 12. The connecting element 7 according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 11 , wherein a distance, such as a shortest distance, between the longitudinal plane LP and the first locking element 73 equals a distance, such as a shortest distance, between the longitudinal plane LP and the second locking element 74. ITEM 13. The connecting element 7 according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 12, wherein the first edge 51 of the replacement panel 5 does not project from the first vertical plane VP1 and/or the fourth edge 14 of the first panel 1 does not project from the vertical plane VP1 , in said locking position of the replacement panel 5 and the adjacent first panel 1 with the connecting element 7.

ITEM 14. The connecting element 7 according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 13, wherein the connecting element 7 is configured to extend along at least part of the first edge 51 of the replacement panel 5 and/or the fourth edge 14 of the first panel 1, in locking position of the replacement panel 5 and the first panel 1.

ITEM 15. The connecting element 7 according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 14, wherein the first locking element 73 and/or the second locking element 74 extends continuously along the longitudinal L length of the connecting element 7.

ITEM 16. The connecting element 7 according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 15, wherein the locking elements 73, 74 delimit a strip groove 75, said strip groove 75 preferably extending in a horizontal plane between the locking elements 73, 74.

ITEM 17. The connecting element 7 according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 16, wherein the strip groove 75 is configured to receive at least part of the first edge 51 of the replacement panel 5 and at least part of the fourth edge 14 of the adjacent first panel 1.

ITEM 18. The connecting element 7 according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 17, wherein the panels 5, 1 may at least partially bear on the strip groove 75 in locking position.

ITEM 19. The connecting element 7 according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 18, wherein the first locking strip 71 is provided on one side of the longitudinal plane LP and second locking strip 72 is provided as an opposite mirror image of the first locking strip 71 disposed on the opposite side of the longitudinal plane such that the longitudinal plane LP constitutes a symmetry line of the connecting element 7.

ITEM 20. The connecting element 7 according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 19, wherein the locking strip members 71, 72, in the locking position, extend essentially symmetrically from the first vertical plane VP1 and/or the longitudinal plane LP.

ITEM 21. The connecting element 7 according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 20, wherein the replacement panel 5 and/or the first panel 1 is vertically unlocked the connecting element 7, such as in a direction opposite the engagement direction E in locking position of the connecting element 1 and the replacement panel 5 and/or in locking position of the connecting element 1 and the first panel 1.

ITEM 22. The connecting element 7 according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 21 , wherein the connecting element 7 is configured to unlock or uncouple said adjacent floor panels 5, 1 in a horizontal direction by means of vertical displacement of the respective panels 5, 1.

ITEM 23. The connecting element 7 according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 22, wherein the first locking element 73 comprises a locking surface 73’ configured to cooperate or mate or abut a corresponding locking surface 510’ of the first locking groove 510 of the replacement panel 5, for horizontal locking of the replacement panel 5 and the connecting element 7.

ITEM 24. The connecting element 7 according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 23, wherein the second locking element 74 comprises a locking surface 74’ configured to cooperate or mate or abut a corresponding locking surface 140’ of the first locking groove 140 of the fourth edge 14 of the adjacent first panel 1 , for horizontal locking of the first panel 1 and the connecting element 7.

ITEM 25. The connecting element 7 according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 24, wherein the connecting element 7 is made from a polymer, plastic or metal or is wood based, such as particle board, plywood, HDF, MDF or compact laminate. ITEM 26. The connecting element 7 according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 25, wherein the connecting element 7 is configured to be divided, such as broken, along a transverse plane thereof into smaller similar sub elements, preferably by comprising one or more transversally extending grooves or perforations.

ITEM 27. A replacement panel 5, such as a floor panel, wall panel or ceiling panel, said replacement panel adapted for locking , such as horizontal and preferably vertical locking, to one or more, such as two, three or four, adjacent panels 1, 2, 3, 4, preferably standard panels, by means of a folding displacement of the replacement panel 5; the replacement panel 5 comprising:

- at a first edge 51 , such as a short edge, a downwards open first locking groove 510 configured to receive a first locking element 73, such as a first locking element 73 of a connecting element 7, by means of a vertical displacement of the first edge 51 for horizontal locking of the replacement panel 5 and an edge of an adjacent panel, such as the fourth edge 14 of the first panel 1, and preferably a sideways open displacement groove 511 configured to receive a displaceable locking tongue 512 configured to cooperate with a tongue groove 141 of an edge of an adjacent panel, such as the fourth edge 14 of the first panel 1 , for vertical locking of the replacement 5 panel and the adjacent panel 1 by means of said vertical displacement of the first edge 51 ;

- at a second edge 52, such as a long edge, a downwards open second locking groove 520 of the replacement panel 5, configured to receive a locking element 232 of a locking strip 231 an edge of an adjacent panel, such as the third edge 23 of the second panel 2, by means of a vertical displacement of the second edge 52 for horizontal locking of the replacement panel 5 and an the adjacent panel 2, and preferably a sideways open displacement groove 521 configured to receive a displaceable locking tongue 522 configured to cooperate with a tongue groove 230 of an edge of an adjacent panel, such as the third edge 23 of the second panel 2, for vertical locking of the replacement panel 5 and the adjacent panel 2, by means of said vertical displacement of the second edge 52. ITEM 28. The replacement panel 5 according to the preceding item 27, further comprising:

- at a fourth edge 54, such as a short edge, a downwards open third locking groove 540 configured to receive a locking element 413 of an adjacent edge, such as the first edge 41 of the fourth panel 4, by means of a vertical displacement of the replacement panel 5, such as in the engagement direction E, of the replacement panel 5 for horizontal locking of the replacement panel 5 and said adjacent edge, such as the first edge 1 of the fourth panel 4, and preferably a tongue groove 541 configured to receive a displaceable locking tongue 411 of an edge of an adjacent panel, such as the first edge 41 of the fourth panel 4, by means of said vertical displacement of the replacement panel 5, for vertical locking of the replacement panel 5 and the adjacent panel 4.

ITEM 29. The replacement panel 5 according to any one of the preceding items 27 or 28, further comprising:

- at a third edge 53, such as a long edge, a locking strip 530 comprising an upwards protruding first locking element 532 of the replacement panel 5, configured to be received in a downwards open locking groove 320 of an adjacent panel, such as the second edge 32 of the third panel 3, by means of a folding displacement F of the replacement panel 5, for horizontal locking of the replacement panel 5 and an adjacent panel, such as the third panel 3, and preferably a tongue groove 530 configured to receive a locking tongue 321 of an adjacent panel, such as the second edge 32 of the third panel 3, by means of a said folding displacement F of the replacement panel 5 about the third edge 53, for vertical locking of the replacement panel 5 and an adjacent panel, such as the third panel 3.

ITEM 30. The replacement panel 5 according to any one of the preceding items 27 or 29, wherein upper joint edges 52, 23 of the replacement panel 5 and the second panel 2 in the locking position define a second vertical plane VP2, preferably the second edge 52 of the replacement panel 5 does not project from the second vertical plane VP2, more preferably only the displaceable tongue 522 projects from the second vertical plane VP2.

ITEM 31. The replacement panel 5 according to any one of the preceding items 27 to 30, wherein the connecting element 7 is configured for horizontal locking of the replacement panel 5 and an adjacent panel in a direction apart from each other.

ITEM 32. A set 10 comprising the connecting element 7 according to any one of items 1 to 26 and the replacement panel 5 according any one of the preceding items 27 to 31.

ITEM 33. Method for installing a replacement panel 5 in an open slot adjacent to installed panels 1 , 2, 3, 4, said replacement panel 5 being configured to obtain a locking position with adjacent floor panels along all four edges, preferably by means of a single displacement of the replacement panel 5, the method comprising: providing a connecting element 7 configured for horizontal locking of the replacement panel 5 and an adjacent panel in a direction apart from each other; arranging a second locking element 74 of the connecting element 7 in a locking groove 140 of the first panel 1 ; receiving a first locking element 73 of the connecting element 7 in a first locking groove 510 of the replacement panel 5 by means of a folding displacement of the replacement panel 5.

ITEM 34. Method according to the previous item 32, further comprising: arranging a locking tongue 321 of the adjacent third panel 3 at a first tongue groove 532 of a third edge 53 of the replacement panel 5.

ITEM 35. Method according to any one of the previous items 32 or 33, wherein the step of arranging the second locking element 74 comprises one or more of the steps of: displacing the fourth edge 14 of the first panel 1 in an essentially vertical direction V; arranging at least a portion of the connecting element 7 underneath the fourth edge 14; displacing the fourth edge 14 of the first panel 1 in an essentially vertical direction for receiving the second locking element 74 of the connecting element 7 in a first locking groove 140 of the first panel 1. ITEM 36. Method according to any one of the preceding items 32 to

34, wherein the connecting element is a connecting element 7 according to any one of items 1 to 26.

ITEM 37. Method according to any one of the preceding items 32 to

35, wherein the replacement panel 5 is a replacement panel 5 according to any one of items 27 to 31.

ITEM 38. Method according to any one of the preceding items 33 to

37, wherein said displacement of the replacement panel 5 is a folding displacement of the replacement panel 5, such performing a pivoting or rotating displacement of the replacement panel 5, preferably about the third edge 53.

ITEM 39. Method according to any one of the preceding items 33 to

38, wherein the adjacent panels 1, 2, 3, 4 comprises, preferably each comprises, a first mechanical locking system at opposite second and third long edges 23, 32, said first mechanical locking system comprising a locking tongue 321 and tongue groove 230 arrangement configured for horizontal locking to essentially identical panels by means of a folding displacement; and a second mechanical locking system at opposite first and fourth short edges 41 , 14 configured for horizontal and vertical locking to essentially identical panels by means of a vertical displacement of a first edge of a panel relative a fourth edge of an adjacent panel; wherein upper joint edges of the panels in the locking position define a first vertical plane VP1 , wherein said first short edge comprises a locking strip configured to project in a horizontal plane HP from said first vertical plane VP1.

ITEM 40. Method for producing a replacement panel, such as a floor panel, wall panel or ceiling panel, the method comprising providing a panel comprising a first mechanical locking system at opposite second 52 and third 53 long edges, wherein said first mechanical locking system comprises a tongue 523 and groove 230 arrangement configured for horizontal and vertical locking to essentially identical panels by means of a folding displacement of the panel; and respective upper portions of said second and third edges configured to form a second vertical plane VP2 in locking position with adjacent similar panels, said second edge 52 comprising a locking tongue 523 configured to project in a horizontal plane HP from said second vertical plane VP2 into a tongue groove 230 of the third edge 23 of said adjacent similar panel 2, and a second mechanical locking system at opposite first 51 and fourth short 54 edges configured for horizontal and vertical locking to essentially identical panels by means of a vertical displacement of the panel; wherein respective upper portions of the first edge 51 and fourth edge 54 in the locking position with said essentially identical panels define a first vertical plane VP1 , and wherein said first short edge 51 comprises a locking strip 513 configured to project in a horizontal plane HP from said first vertical plane VP1 ; re-configuring the first edge 51 by removing the locking strip 513 at the first edge 51 , preferably such that it does not project form said first vertical plane VP1 ; forming in the first edge 51 , a downwards open locking groove 510; removing at least part of the locking tongue 523 in the second edge 52 such that it no longer is configured to project from said second vertical plane VP2, and - forming a sideways open second displacement groove 521 in the second edge 52, configured to house a displaceable locking tongue 522 for vertical locking of the second edge 52 to adjacent panels; preferably, arranging one or more displaceable locking tongue 522 in the second displacement groove 521.

ITEM 41. Method according to item 40, wherein said forming is carried out by means of machining such as milling or cutting or carving.