DECORATIVE WALL PANEL

Description

BACKGROUND

The invention relates to a decorative wall panel that can be installed in a fast and reliable way.

Wall panels for interior decorative use are known that have a melamine surface and which are installed with special fixation systems and wherein a gap is present between wall panels.

Although such wall coverings can provide an appealing decorative aspect, the use of special fixation systems makes the installation of such decorative panels cumbersome and expensive.

It is an object of the invention to provide decorative wall panels that provide improvements over the decorative wall panels of the prior art.

It is an object of the invention to provide decorative wall panels that can be installed easily into a visually appealing and durable wall covering.

SUMMARY

The first aspect of the invention is a decorative panel. The decorative panel comprises a decorative top layer, a core and a balancing layer. The decorative top layer is laminated onto the core. The balancing layer is provided at the bottom of the core. The decorative panel is rectangular, square or oblong. The decorative panel comprises a first pair of opposite edges. The decorative panel comprises at a first edge of the first pair of opposite edges a male coupling part and at a second edge of the first pair of opposite edges a female coupling part. The male coupling part and the female coupling part are configured such that two of such decorative panels, by means of the male coupling part and the female coupling part, can be coupled to each other in a plane, thereby realizing a coupled condition between the decorative panels. The male coupling part comprises a tongue and the female coupling part comprises a groove. The tongue and the groove, in the coupled condition, form a tongue and groove connection, which realizes a mechanical locking between the decorative panels in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the decorative panels. The groove is bordered by a front lip and a rear lip. The male coupling part and the female coupling part each comprise a locking part. The locking parts, in the coupled condition, realize a mechanical locking between the decorative panels in the direction in the plane of the decorative panels and perpendicular to the coupled edges. The decorative surface of the panel comprises at least one slot—and preferably a plurality of slots—extending through the decorative top layer into the core.

The at least one slot—which is preferably a plurality of slots—extending through the decorative top layer has the benefit that wall coverings made with the decorative panels according to the invention provide an appealing visual aspect.

The at least one slot—which is preferably a plurality of slots—is preferably provided over the full length of the panel.

In a preferred embodiment, the at least one slot is a plurality of slots, preferably parallel to each other.

The at least one slot—which is preferably a plurality of slots—is preferably parallel with the first pair of opposite edges. However, other orientations of the at least one slot relative to the first pair of opposite edges are also possible, e.g. angles between 10 and 80 degrees relative to the first pair of opposite edges.

Preferably, the at least one slot—which is preferably a plurality of slots—has over its full length a constant depth.

In embodiments of the invention, slots of the at least one slot extending through the decorative top layer into the core can have a curved course over part of their length or over their full length over the surface of the decorative panel.

The at least one slot extending through the decorative top layer into the core preferably has two walls and a recess through the decorative top layer in between the two walls. Preferably, the two wall are substantially perpendicular to the surface of the decorative panel.

In a preferred embodiment, the at least one slot extending through the decorative top layer into the core is a plurality of slots, wherein at least part of—and preferably all of—the slots of the plurality of slots have the same width.

In a preferred embodiment, the at least one slot extending through the decorative top layer into the core is a plurality of slots, wherein at least a part of the slots has a different width than a second part of the plurality of slots.

Preferably, the at least one slot extending through the decorative to layer into the core is a plurality of slots, wherein the distance between consecutive slots is constant.

Such embodiment provides a decorative panel that can be used to install a visually nice wall covering.

A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the at least one slot extending through the decorative top layer into the core is a plurality of slots, wherein the plurality of slots have the same depth. Such embodiments provide a decorative panel with an appealing visual aspect.

A preferred decorative panel comprises at least one slot at the bottom of the decorative panel. The at least one slot at the bottom of the decorative panel extends through the balancing layer.

The at least one slot at the bottom of the decorative panel can compensate for the presence of the at least one slot extending through the decorative top layer into the core. The decorative top layer laminated onto the core can exercise tensions onto the core. The balancing layer can balance these tensions and ensure dimensional stability of the panel. However, the at least one slot extending through the decorative top layer into the core will modify the tensions, this modification of the tensions is compensated by also providing at least one slot at the bottom of the decorative panel extending through the balancing layer. This way, the dimensional stability of the decorative panel is guaranteed, e.g. preventing the decorative panel from cupping when its humidity content is changing, e.g. when the decorative panel is installed in a wall covering.

The at least one slot extending through the decorative top layer into the core will expose the core at the decorative surface of the top layer. Humidity can be absorbed in the core. Providing at least one slot at the bottom of the decorative panel extending through the balancing layer ensures that also humidity can be absorbed in the core from the bottom of the decorative panel. As humidity can be absorbed in the core of the decorative panel from top and bottom, it is ensured that no deformation of the decorative panel will occur due to changes in humidity of the room where the decorative panel is installed in a wall covering.

The at least one slot at the bottom of the decorative panel is preferably a plurality of slots at the bottom of the decorative panel.

The at least one slot at the bottom of the decorative panel is preferably provided parallel to the first pair of opposite edges.

The at least one slot at the bottom of the decorative panel extending through the balancing layer is preferably a plurality of slots provided at the bottom of the decorative panel extending through the balancing layer. More preferably the plurality of slots at the bottom of the decorative panel are equidistant to each other.

Preferably, the at least one slot—which preferably is a plurality of slots—at the bottom of the decorative panel extending through the balancing layer has a depth of less than 1.5 mm, more preferably less than 1 mm.

Such depth has shown to be sufficient for ensuring the dimensional stability of the decorative panel by compensating for the at least one slot extending through the decorative top surface into the core of the decorative panel.

The at least one slot—which is preferably a plurality of slots—at the bottom of the decorative panel extending through the balancing layer is preferably provided over the full length of the panel.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the at least one slot—which preferably is a plurality of slots—extending through the decorative top layer into the core is parallel with the at least one slot—which preferably is a plurality of slots—at the bottom of the decorative panel extending through the balancing layer.

Such embodiments have the benefit that the dimensional stability of the decorative panel is optimally achieved.

A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the sum of the depth of the at least one slot—which preferably is a plurality of slots—extending through the decorative top layer into the core and the depth of the at least one slot—which preferably is a plurality of slots—at the bottom of the decorative panel is less than the thickness of the decorative panel; and more preferably less than 70% of the thickness of the decorative panel; and more preferably less than 60% of the thickness of the decorative panel; and more preferably less than 50% of the thickness of the decorative panel.

Such embodiments have the benefit that the strength of the decorative panel is maintained better, also resulting in improved dimensional stability of the decorative panel.

Preferably, no slot of the at least one slot extending through the decorative top layer extending into the core extends into a slot of the at least one slot at the bottom of the decorative panel.

Such embodiments have the benefit that the strength of the decorative panel is maintained better, also resulting in improved dimensional stability of the decorative panel.

A preferred decorative panel is characterized in that no plane perpendicular to the decorative panel and parallel with the first pair of opposite edges cuts through a slot of the at least one slot extending through the decorative top layer into the core and through a slot of the at least one slot at the bottom of the decorative panel.

Such embodiment means that—seen in the direction vertical to the surface of the decorative panel—slots of the at least one slot extending through the decorative top layer into the core and the slots of the at least one slot at the bottom of the decorative panel are spaced from each other. It is a benefit that the strength of such decorative panels is high, contributing to an improved dimensional stability of the decorative panel, also once installed in a wall covering.

A preferred decorative panel is characterized in that no plane perpendicular to the decorative panel and parallel with any slot of the at least one slot extending through the decorative top layer into the core extends through any slot of the at least one slot at the bottom of the decorative panel.

It is a benefit of such embodiment that the strength of the decorative panel is high, contributing to an improved dimensional stability of the decorative panel, also once installed in a wall covering.

In a preferred decorative panel the at least one slot—which preferably is a plurality of parallel slots—extending through the decorative top layer into the core and the at least one slot—which preferably is a plurality of parallel slots—at the bottom of the decorative panel are parallel with the first pair of opposite edges. The shortest distance between on the one hand a plane perpendicular to the decorative panel and parallel with the first pair of opposite edges and through a slot of the at least one slot extending through the decorative top layer into the core; and on the other hand a plane perpendicular to the decorative panel and parallel with the first pair of opposite edges and through a slot of the at least one slot at the bottom of the decorative panel is preferably at least 1 mm, more preferably at least 1.5 mm; and preferably less than 5 mm, more preferably less then 3 mm.

It is a benefit that the at least one slot extending through the decorative top layer and the at least one slot at the bottom of the decorative panel and extending through the balancing layer are sufficiently distant for each other to ensure the strength of the panel. They can be relatively close to each other for improved dimensional stability of the decorative panel.

In a preferred decorative panel, the distance in the direction perpendicular to the first pair of opposite edges between the projection onto the plane of the surface of the decorative panel of each of the slots of the at least one slot extending through the decorative top layer into the core and its neighbor slot of the at least one slot at the bottom of the decorative panel is at least 1 mm, more preferably at least 1.5 mm; and preferably less than 5 mm, more preferably less than 3 mm.

This way, each of the at least of slot through the decorative top surface extending into the core of the decorative panel is sufficiently remote from each of the at least one slot at the bottom of the decorative panel. This way, the mechanical properties of the decorative panel are guaranteed, synergistically contributing to the dimensional stability of the decorative panels when installed in a wall covering.

A preferred decorative panel is characterized in that the depth of the at least one slot—which is preferably a plurality of slots—extending through the decorative top layer into the core is larger than the depth of the at least one slot—which is preferably a plurality of slots—at the bottom of the decorative panel.

Such embodiments provide a nice visual aspect to the decorative panel installed in a wall covering, while maintaining sufficient strength of the decorative panel and ensuring dimensional stability of the decorative panel.

More preferably, the difference in depth between the at least one slot extending through the decorative top layer into the core and the at least one slot at the bottom of the decorative panel is at least 15%—and more preferably at least 20%—of the total thickness of the decorative panel.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the decorative panel comprises a number N1 of slots extending through the decorative top layer into the core, and in that the decorative panel comprises a number N2 of slots at the bottom of the decorative panel, wherein N1 equals N2.

It is a benefit of such embodiment that the dimensional stability of the decorative panel, also when used in a wall covering, is optimal. Tensions from the decorative top surface and the balancing layer will optimally compensate each other. The effects of moisture uptake in the core via the slots extending through the decorative top layer into the core can be optimally compensated by the uptake in the core of moisture via the slots at the bottom of the decorative panel. This way, the decorative panel will remain flat, and not curb nor curl nor dome.

In embodiments of the invention, slots of the at least one slot extending through the decorative top layer can have a curved course over the surface of the decorative panel.

The second aspect of the invention is a decorative panel. The decorative panel comprises a decorative top layer, a core and a balancing layer. The decorative top layer is laminated onto the core and the balancing layer is provided at the bottom of the core. The decorative panel is rectangular, square or oblong. The decorative panel comprises a first pair of opposite edges. The decorative panel comprises at a first edge of the first pair of opposite edges a male coupling part and at a second edge of the first pair of opposite edges a female coupling part. The male coupling part and the female coupling part are configured such that a first such decorative panel and a second such decorative panel, by means of the male coupling part of the first such decorative panel and the female coupling part of the second such decorative panel, can be coupled to each other in a plane, thereby realizing a coupled condition between the decorative panels. The male coupling part comprises a tongue and the female coupling part comprises a groove, which tongue and groove, in the coupled condition, form a tongue and groove connection, which realizes a mechanical locking between the decorative panels in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the decorative panels. The groove is bordered by a front lip and a rear lip. The male coupling part and the female coupling part each comprise a locking part. The locking parts, in the coupled condition, realize a mechanical locking between the decorative panels in the direction in the plane of the decorative panels and perpendicular to the coupled edges. The decorative panel is configured such that in coupled condition a panel groove is provided at the decorative panel surface of the coupled edges, between the distal end of the front lip of the second such decorative panel and the panel edge comprising the tongue of the first such decorative panel.

It is a benefit of the decorative panel of the second aspect of the invention that a nice visual aspect is obtained of a wall covering comprising a plurality of such decorative panels coupled together.

The panel groove can be combined with slots in the decorative panel extending through the decorative top layer into the core, e.g. slots as in any embodiment of the first aspect of the invention. This way, the panel groove can combine with the slots through the decorative top layer extending into the core to provide an aesthetic visual appearance of a wall covering made with such decorative panels.

The decorative panels combined in the wall covering can have different arrangements of slots extending through the decorative top layer into the core, such that not all decorative panels have the same visual appearance.

The slots extending through the decorative top layer into the core can have a curved course over the surface of the decorative panel.

It is a benefit of decorative panels of the second aspect of the invention that when combined with slots extending through the decorative top layer into the core for establishing a nice decorative aspect, it is not required to make slots extending through the decorative layer into the core within a short distance from the first edge nor within a short distance from the second edge of the decorative panel. Slots within a short distance from the edges of the decorative panel could in combination with the coupling parts result in weak spots of the decorative panel, which could result in breakage of the decorative panel during installation.

In a preferred embodiment of a decorative panel according to the first aspect of the invention—which is preferably also a decorative panel according to the second aspect of the invention—, no slot extending through the top layer into the core is present seen from the distal end of the second edge up to a distance in proximal direction of 3 mm, and preferably of 5 mm, and more preferably of 10 mm, more preferably of 15 mm, even more preferably of 20 mm, from the proximal end of the groove. Such embodiments strongly reduce the risk of breakage when coupling the decorative panels.

In a preferred embodiment of a decorative panel according to the first aspect of the invention—which is preferably also a decorative panel according to the second aspect of the invention—, a locking part is provided by a recess at the rear side of the tongue; and no slot extending through the top layer into the core is present from the distal end of the front lip up to a distance up of 3 mm, and preferably of 5 mm, and preferably of 10 mm, and more preferably of 15 mm, in proximal direction from the proximal edge of the recess provided at the rear side of the tongue. Such embodiments strongly reduce the risk of breakage when coupling the decorative panels.

Preferably, the width of the panel groove is at least 2 mm, more preferably at least 3 mm.

Preferably, the decorative panel of the second aspect of the invention is a decorative panel according to the first aspect of the invention.

The panel groove preferably has at least the same depth as the thickness of the front lip measured at the distal end of the front lip.

Such embodiment has the benefit that possible expansion of the decorative panel in a wall covering can be absorbed, as a certain level of movement is possible of the tongue in the groove of the decorative panel with which the decorative panel is coupled. This is even more important in wall coverings in which the rear lip of the coupled panel is fixed, e.g. by a screw, tack or nail, to a substructure or to the wall itself. This fixation will prevent expansion of the decorative panel at the side comprising the groove. It is then the more beneficial when the decorative panel can expand in the wall covering at the edge comprising the male coupling part.

The depth of the panel groove is at most 0.5 mm—and preferably at most 0.2 mm—less than the distance from the surface of the decorative panel of the most distal contact point in coupled condition of the front lip to the tongue of the coupled decorative panel.

Such embodiment has the benefit that possible expansion of the decorative panel in a wall covering can be absorbed, as a certain level of movement of the tongue in the groove is possible.

A preferred decorative panel according to the first aspect and according to the second aspect is characterized in that the panel groove has the same width as the at least one slot—and preferably of a plurality of slots and more preferably of all slots of the at least one slot—extending through the decorative top layer into the core of the decorative panel.

It is a benefit that a visually appealing wall covering can be made with such decorative panels. The visual appearance is even the more attractive when the at least one slot—which can be a plurality of parallel slots—extending through the decorative top layer into the core is parallel with the first pair of opposite edges, which also means that the panel groove will be parallel with the at least one slot extending through the decorative top layer into the core.

In embodiments of the invention, the panel groove can have the same depth as the at least one slot—which can be plurality of slots—extending through the decorative top layer into the core. Such embodiments provide an appealing appearance of wall coverings obtained with such decorative panels.

In a preferred decorative panel as in the first aspect of the invention and as in the second aspect of the invention, the at least one slot extending through the decorative top layer into the core is a plurality of slots and the combination of the panel groove and the plurality of slots extending through the decorative top layer into the core provide in coupled condition of a plurality of decorative panels a visual image of equally spaced grooves at the decorative surface of the decorative panel.

Such embodiment of the invention provides a wall covering with a very nice visual aspect.

A preferred decorative panel according to the first aspect of the invention and/or according to the second aspect of the invention comprises a second pair of opposite edges. The second pair of edges comprises a third edge and a fourth edge. The decorative panel comprises at a third edge of the second pair of opposite edges a second male coupling part and at a fourth edge of the second pair of opposite edges a second female coupling part. The second male coupling part and the second female coupling part are configured such that two of such decorative panels, by means of the second male coupling part and the second female coupling part, can be coupled to each other in a plane, thereby realizing a coupled condition between the decorative panels. The second male coupling part comprises a second tongue and the second female coupling part comprises a second groove. The second tongue and the second groove, in the coupled condition, form a tongue and groove connection, which realizes a mechanical locking between the decorative panels in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the decorative panels. The second groove is bordered by a second front lip and by a second rear lip. The second male coupling part and the second female coupling part each comprise a locking part. The locking parts of the second male coupling part and of the second female coupling part realize in the coupled condition a mechanical locking between the decorative panels in the direction in the plane of the decorative panels and perpendicular to the coupled edges. The decorative panel is configured such that in coupled condition a second panel groove is provided at the decorative panel surface of the coupled edge between the second front lip and the panel edge comprising the second tongue.

The use of such decorative panels in a wall covering results in a visually appealing wall covering.

The locking part of the second male coupling part is preferably provided on the rear side of the second tongue and the locking part of the second female coupling part is preferably provided on the front side of the second rear lip.

The second panel groove preferably has substantially the same depth as the thickness of the second front lip measured at the distal end of the second front lip.

Such embodiment has the benefit that possible expansion of the decorative panel in a wall covering can be absorbed, as a certain level of movement of the second tongue in the second groove is possible.

The depth of the second panel groove is preferably at most 0.5 mm—and more preferably at most 0.2 mm—less than the distance from the surface of the decorative panel of the most distal contact point in coupled condition of the second front lip to the second tongue of the coupled decorative panel.

Such embodiment has the benefit that possible expansion of the decorative panel in a wall covering can be absorbed, as a certain level of movement of the second tongue in the second groove is possible.

A preferred decorative panel is characterized in that the panel groove and the second panel groove have the same width and/or the same depth.

The use of such decorative panels for wall coverings results in visually appealing wall coverings.

A preferred decorative panel according to any aspect of the invention is characterized in that the decorative top layer comprises a resin impregnated sheet of paper, and optionally a wear layer.

The resin impregnated sheet of paper can be adhered to the core by the resin of the resin impregnated sheet of paper.

The optional wear layer can comprise or consist of a resin impregnated sheet of paper (e.g. a resin impregnated alpha-cellulose paper). This resin can be a melamine resin.

The optional wear layer can comprise or consist of a lacquer layer, e.g. an acrylate lacquer layer or a polyurethane lacquer layer.

Alternative decorative top layers are not excluded from the invention. The decorative top layer can comprise a sheet of paper-whether or not impregnated with resin-adhered to the core of the decorative panel by using an adhesive layer, which in case of the top layer comprising a resin impregnated sheet of paper, can be different from the resin with which the sheet of paper is impregnated.

The resin impregnated sheet of paper of the decorative top layer can be a resin impregnated printed sheet of paper.

The decorative top layer can comprise embossments in register with the printed motif of the resin impregnated printed sheet of paper. The printed motif can be a wood décor, embossments is register with the printed wood motif provide a very realistic simulation of a wood plank.

The resin of the resin impregnated sheet of paper can preferably be selected from a melamine resin, a urea formaldehyde resin, an acrylate resin, a polyurethane resin, or combinations thereof. Melamine resins that can be used include melamine formaldehyde resins and melamine urea formaldehyde resins.

In embodiments of the first aspect of the invention and/or of the second aspect of the invention and/or of the third aspect of the invention, the decorative top layer comprises a décor printed on the core and a wear layer, more preferably wherein the wear layer comprises a lacquer layer, more preferably wherein the lacquer layer is selected from an acrylate lacquer, a polyurethane lacquer, a polyester lacquer, or combinations thereof.

The balancing layer of decorative panels of the first aspect of the invention and/or of decorative panels of the second aspect of the invention and/or of the decorative panels of the set of decorative panels of the third aspect of the invention can comprise a resin impregnated sheet of paper.

The resin impregnated sheet of paper of the balancing layer can be adhered to the bottom of the core by the resin with which the resin impregnated sheet of paper of the balancing layer is impregnated.

The resin of the resin impregnated sheet of paper of the balancing layer can be selected from a melamine resin, a urea formaldehyde resin, an acrylate resin, a polyurethane resin, or combinations thereof.

In a preferred embodiment of the first aspect of the invention and/or of the second aspect of the invention and/or of the third aspect of the invention, the decorative top layer comprises a resin impregnated sheet of paper and the balancing layer comprises a resin impregnated sheet of paper, wherein the resin of the resin impregnated sheet of paper of the decorative top layer and the resin of the resin impregnated sheet of paper of the balancing layer have the same chemical nature, preferably both selected from melamine resin, more preferably selected from melamine formaldehyde resin.

Such embodiments are beneficial, as they contribute synergistically to the dimensional stability of the decorative panels, also once installed in a wall covering.

The balancing layer of decorative panels according to the first aspect and/or according to the second aspect of the invention and/or of the set of decorative according to the third aspect of the invention can comprise or consist of a lacquer layer. Such lacquer layer is preferably selected from an acrylate lacquer layer, a polyurethane lacquer layer, a polyester lacquer layer, or combinations thereof.

In embodiments of the first aspect of the invention and/or of the second aspect of the invention and/or of the third aspect of the invention wherein the balancing layer is provided by a lacquer layer and wherein the wear layer of the decorative top layer comprises a lacquer layer, the chemical nature of the lacquer layer of the balancing layer and the chemical nature of the lacquer layer of the wear layer are preferably the same, e.g. both are acrylate lacquer layers.

Such embodiments are beneficial, as they contribute synergistically to the dimensional stability of the decorative panels, also once installed in a wall covering.

The decorative panel of the first aspect of the invention and/or of the second aspect of the invention and/or of the set of decorative panels of the third aspect of the invention can have a printed wood décor. This has the benefit of providing a nice visual aspect to wall coverings obtained using the decorative panel.

The core of the decorative panel of the different aspects of the invention can comprise or be selected from:

• • a wood-based board, e.g. a wood fiber board, a wood chip board, a plywood board or an oriented strand board (OSB); or
  • a mineral based board, e.g. a cement fiber board, a magnesium oxide based board or a gypsum board.

Wood-based boards can—when the wood content (e.g. the wood fibers or the wood chips) are exposed to moisture, e.g. varying humidity conditions—absorb moisture. It is a benefit of the invention that measures are provided that ensure the dimensional stability of the decorative panels according to the invention and which have a core comprising or consisting of a wood-based board also when exposed to varying humidity or to high humidity conditions.

The same applies to decorative panels according to the invention which have a mineral based board as core when the mineral based core is a mineral based core that can absorb humidity.

The core preferably comprises or consists of a wood fiber board, e.g. a Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) or a High Density Fiberboard (MDF). The core can have a fine grain structure, which results in a nice visual aspect of the walls and bottom of the—if present—at least one slot extending through the decorative top surface into the core, and the—if present—panel groove and the—if present-second panel groove.

In embodiments of the first aspect of the invention and/or of the second aspect of the invention and/or of the third aspect of the invention, the locking part of the male coupling part is preferably provided on the rear side of the tongue and the locking part of the female coupling part is preferably provided on the front side of the rear lip.

The rear lip of preferred embodiments of the different aspects of the invention comprises at its rear side a recess extending in proximal direction from the distal end of the rear lip. The recess preferably is elongated, and more preferably elongated in the direction parallel with the surface of the decorative panel. The recess preferably extends in proximal direction to beyond the locking part at the rear lip. The recess facilitates the installation of the decorative panels in a wall covering, as the rear lip can bend backwards to allow insertion of the tongue into the groove.

In embodiments of the different aspects of the invention, the second rear lip comprises at its rear side a recess extending in proximal direction from the distal end of the second rear lip. The recess preferably is elongated, and more preferably elongated in the direction parallel with the surface of the decorative panel. The recess preferably extends in proximal direction to beyond the second locking part at the second rear lip.

A preferred decorative panel according to any aspect of the invention is characterized in that the core is pigmented. Such embodiments provide wall covering with the decorative panels with a nice visual aspect, as—according to the embodiment—the—if present—at least one slot extending through the decorative top surface, the—if present—panel groove and the—if present—second panel groove will expose the core and its color in the wall covering.

Preferably, the core is pigmented black. This way, a very nice visual appearance is created in wall coverings made with decorative panels according to the invention.

A preferred decorative panel according to any aspect of the invention has a length of at least 2400 mm. It is a benefit that such decorative panel can be installed floor to ceiling for providing a floor to ceiling extending wall covering.

Decorative panels having a length of at least 2400 mm preferably do not have coupling parts at their second pair of opposite edges.

A preferred decorative panel according to any aspect of the invention is preferably less than 12.5 mm thick, and more preferably less than 10.5 mm thick.

The third aspect of the invention relates to a set of decorative panels comprising a first decorative panel and a second decorative panel. The first decorative panel and the second decorative panel each comprises a decorative top layer, a core and optionally a balancing layer. The decorative top layer is laminated onto the core. The optional balancing layer can be provided at the bottom of the core of the first decorative panel and at the bottom of the core of the second decorative panel. Each of the first decorative panel and the second decorative panel is rectangular, square or oblong. Each of the first decorative panel and the second decorative panel comprises a first pair of opposite edges. Each of the first decorative panel and the second decorative panel comprises at a first edge of the first pair of opposite edges a male coupling part and at a second edge of the first pair of opposite edges a female coupling part. The male coupling part and the female coupling part are configured such that two such panels, by means of their male coupling part and their female coupling, can be coupled to each other in a plane, thereby realizing a coupled condition between the decorative panels. The male coupling part comprises a tongue and the female coupling part comprises a groove. The tongue and groove, in the coupled condition, form a tongue and groove connection, which realizes a mechanical locking between the decorative panels in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the coupled decorative panels. The groove is bordered by a front lip and a rear lip. The male coupling part and the female coupling part each comprise a locking part. The locking parts in the coupled condition, realize a mechanical locking between the decorative panels in the direction in the plane of the decorative panels and perpendicular to the coupled edges.

The set of decorative panels is characterized in that the first decorative panel and the second decorative panel are configured such that in coupled condition of the first decorative panel with its tongue in the groove of the second decorative panel, a panel groove is provided at the decorative panel surface of the coupled edges, between the distal end of the front lip of the second decorative panel and the panel edge of the first decorative panel comprising the tongue.

The set of decorative panels is further characterized in that the first decorative panel and the second decorative panel are configured such that in coupled condition of the second decorative panel with its tongue in the groove of the first decorative panel, a closing plane of the second panel contacts—preferably with tension—a closing plane of the first decorative panel. The closing plane of the first decorative panel is provided at the proximal end of the front lip of the first decorative panel; and the closing plane of the second decorative panel is provided by a plane of the panel edge of the second decorative panel comprising the tongue, wherein the closing plane is located between the tongue and the decorative surface at the panel edge of the second decorative panel comprising the tongue.

The set of decorative panels of the third aspect of the invention has the benefit that a decorative covering, e.g. a decorative wall covering can be provided. The panel grooves of the decorative wall covering can absorb expansion and contraction of the panels of the wall covering, e.g. when moisture conditions of the room are changing.

The closing plane of the second decorative panel can be provided by a plane perpendicular to the decorative surface of the second decorative panel.

In coupled condition of the second decorative panel with its tongue in the groove of the first decorative panel, the closing plane of the second panel can contact with tension the closing plane of the first decorative panel. It is preferably meant that there exists a contact tension pushing the closing planes to each other. It is a benefit of such embodiments that an unwished visual gap between the coupled panels is effectively prevented. This way, an aesthetically appealing wall covering can be obtained.

The first decorative panel and the second decorative panel preferably have the same size.

In preferred embodiments, the first decorative panel is a decorative panel as in any embodiment of the second aspect of the invention, and optionally a decorative panel as in any embodiment of the first aspect of the invention.

The second decorative panel can be a decorative panel as in any embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, or comprising features as in any embodiment of the first aspect of the invention.

In preferred embodiments of the third aspect of the invention, a first decorative panel can be coupled at its edge comprising the male coupling part to the edge comprising the female coupling part of another first decorative panel.

In preferred embodiments of the third aspect of the invention, a second decorative panel can be coupled at its edge comprising the male coupling part to the edge comprising the female coupling part of another second decorative panel.

Embodiments of the third aspect of the invention provide wall coverings having nice aesthetic aspects.

In preferred embodiments of the different aspects of the invention, the decorative panels are configured such that in coupled condition of the decorative panel to another such decorative panel, a space is provided between the distal end of the coupled tongue and the proximal wall of the groove into which the tongue is inserted. It is a benefit of such embodiment that expansion of the decorative panel is allowed in a wall covering when humidity increases.

An aspect of the invention relates to a wall covering. The wall covering comprises two decorative panels as in any of the first aspect of the invention, the second aspect of the invention and the third aspect of the invention, wherein the first decorative panel of the two decorative panels is coupled with its male coupling part to the female coupling part of the second decorative panel of the two decorative panels.

The two decorative panels are preferably fixed to a supporting structure. The two decorative panels can be fixed to a supporting structure by mechanical means, such as by nails, screws, a tack through the rear lip or using clips.

In the same way, an aspect of the invention relates to a wall covering comprising a set of decorative panels according to the third aspect of the invention. The first decorative panel and the second decorative panel can be fixed to a supporting structure. The first decorative panel and the second decorative panel can be fixed to a supporting structure by mechanical means, such as by nails, screws, a tack through the rear lip or using clips.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

With the intention of better showing the characteristics of the invention, hereafter, as an example without any limitative character, several preferred embodiments are described, with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 shows a wall covering according to aspects of the invention;

FIG. 2 shows a cross section of a decorative panel according to aspects of the invention;

FIG. 3 shows the coupling along a first pair of opposite edges of decorative panels according to the invention;

FIG. 4 shows a detail of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 shows the coupling along a second pair of opposite edges of decorative panels according to aspects of the invention;

FIG. 6 shows a wall covering comprising decorative panels according to the invention;

FIG. 7 shows a wall covering comprising a set of decorative panels according to the third aspect of the invention;

FIG. 8 shows a cross section along VIII-VIII of FIG. 7; and

FIG. 9 shows a cross section along IX-IX of FIG. 7.

Same reference numerals in the different figures have the same meaning.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIG. 1 shows a wall covering 10 according to the invention. The wall covering 10 comprises a plurality of decorative panels 12 according to the invention. The decorative panels are rectangular and oblong.

FIG. 2 shows a cross section along II-II of FIG. 1 of a decorative panel 12 according to aspects of the invention. The decorative panel 12 comprises a decorative top layer 13, a core 14 and a balancing layer 15. The decorative top layer 13 is laminated onto the core 14 and the balancing layer 15 is provided at the bottom of the core of the decorative panel.

In the example shown, the decorative top layer 13 comprises a resin impregnated printed sheet of paper 16 and a wear layer 17. The core 14 is a medium density wood fiberboard (MDF), e.g. of 10 mm thickness. Other types of boars are also possible, e.g. other types of wood-based boards or even mineral based boards. The medium density wood fiberboard has been pigmented black.

The resin impregnated printed sheet of paper can be printed with a wood motif. Combined with a texture in the decorative top layer 13, the visual aspect of the decorative panel can simulate a wood décor.

The resin of the impregnated printed sheet of paper 16 of the decorative panels of the example is a melamine resin. This melamine resin has been used to laminate the resin impregnated printed sheet of paper 16 to the core 14. Other types of resin than melamine resins can be used in the invention.

The wear layer 17 of the decorative panel 12 of the example is provided by a resin impregnated sheet of alpha-cellulose paper. The resin with which this alpha-cellulose sheet of paper is impregnated is a melamine resin.

The balancing layer 15 of the decorative panel 12 of the example shown comprises a resin impregnated sheet of paper. This resin is a melamine resin. The resin impregnated sheet of paper of the balancing layer 15 is adhered to the bottom of the core 14 by means of this melamine resin.

The decorative panel 12 comprises a first pair of opposite edges 20, 21. At the first edge 20 of the first pair of opposite edges a male coupling part is provided. At the second edge 21 of the first pair of opposite edges a female coupling part is provided.

The male coupling part and the female coupling part are configured such that two of such decorative panels, by means of the male coupling part and the female coupling part, can be coupled to each other in a plane, thereby realizing a coupled condition between the decorative panels.

The male coupling part comprises a tongue 23. The female coupling part comprises a groove 24 bordered by a front lip 25 and a rear lip 26.

The tongue 23 and the groove 14 form in the coupled condition a tongue and groove connection, which realizes a mechanical locking between the decorative panels in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the coupled decorative panels.

The male coupling part and the female coupling part each comprise a locking part. The locking part 27 of the male coupling part is provided by a recess at the rear side of the tongue 23 and the locking part 28 of the female coupling part is provided by a protrusion on the front side of the rear lip 26. The locking parts 27, 28, in the coupled condition, realize a mechanical locking between the decorative panels in the direction in the plane of the decorative panels and perpendicular to the coupled edges 20, 21.

The rear lip 26 comprises at its rear side a recess 29 extending in proximal direction from the distal end of the rear lip 26. The recess 29 is elongated in the direction parallel with the surface of the decorative panel. The recess 29 extends in proximal direction to beyond the locking part 28 of the rear lip 26.

The decorative surface of the panel comprises a plurality of slots 30 extending through the decorative top layer 13 into the core 14. As the slots extend into the core 14, the core 14 is exposed at the front of the decorative panel 12. As already indicated, the medium density wood fiberboard core of the decorative panel of the example has been pigmented black, which results in a nice visual aspect of the panel groove (see further for the panel groove in this example of decorative panels according to the invention) and of the slots 30 extending through the decorative top layer into the core.

In the example shown, the slots 30 extending through the decorative top layer 13 (slots 30 which are also shown in the decorative panels 12 in the wall covering 10 of FIG. 1) into the core 14 are provided over the full length of the decorative panels, are provided equidistant from each other and run parallel with the first pair of opposite edges 20, 21. The slots 30 extending through the decorative top layer 13 have over their full length a constant depth. All slots 30 extending through the decorative top layer 13 into the core 14 have the same depth.

The slots 30 extending through the decorative top layer 13 into the core 14 of the decorative panel 12 of the decorative panels of the example all have the same width. However, it is also possible to provide decorative panels with slots extending through the decorative top layer of different width.

The decorative panel 12 comprises a plurality of slots 32 at the bottom of the decorative panel 12. The slots 32 at the bottom of the decorative panel extend through the balancing layer 15. The slots 32 at the bottom of the decorative panel are provided parallel with the first pair of opposite edges 20 21. The slots 32 at the bottom of the decorative panel are equidistant from each other, provided over the full length of the panel, and all have the same depth, and the same depth over their full length.

In the example shown, the number N1 of slots 30 extending through the decorative top layer 13 into the core 14 of the decorative panel 12 is equal to the number N2 of slots 32 at the bottom of the decorative panel 12.

The decorative panel 12 has thickness T 10.2 mm. The slots 30 extending through the decorative top layer 13 into the core 14 have depth T1, which is in the example equal to 3 mm. The slots 32 at the bottom of the decorative panel 12 have depth T2, which is in the example equal to 1 mm.

The slots 30 extending through the decorative top layer 13 into the core 14 have width W1, which is in the example equal to 3 mm. The slots 32 at the bottom of the decorative panel 12 have width W2, which is in the example also equal to 3 mm.

The shortest distance D1 between on the one hand a plane A1 perpendicular to the decorative panel 12 and parallel with the first pair of opposite edges 20, 21 and through a slot 30 extending trough the decorative top layer 13 into the core 14; and on the other hand a plane A2 perpendicular to the decorative panel 12 and parallel with the first pair of opposite edges 20, 21 and through a slot 32 of the at least one slot at the bottom of the decorative panel 12 equals in the decorative panel 12 shown 2 mm.

FIG. 3 shows a cross section along III-III of FIG. 1 of the coupling along the first pair of opposite edges 20, 21 of decorative panels 12 according to the invention. The reference numerals have the same meaning as in FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 3 also shows that the decorative panels are secured by means of bolts 40 through the rear lip 26 to the wall 41.

FIG. 3 shows that the decorative panel 12 of the example is configured such that in coupled condition at the first pair of opposite edges 20, 21 of the decorative panel 12, a panel groove 34 is provided at the decorative panel surface of the coupled edges 20, 21, between the distal end 36 of the front lip 25 of the decorative panel 12 and the coupled panel edge comprising the tongue 23.

The panel groove 34 has depth T3, in the example shows the depth T3 equals the depth T1 of the slots 30 extending through the decorative top layer 13.

In the example shown, the decorative panel 12 is configured such that the width W3 of the panel groove 34 is the same as the width W1 of the slots 30 extending through the decorative top layer 13 into the core 14.

In the example shown, the combination of the panel groove 34 and the plurality of slots 30 extending through the decorative top layer 13 into the core 14 provide in coupled condition of a plurality of decorative panels 12 a visual image of equally spaced grooves all of the same width at the decorative surface of the decorative panel.

FIG. 4 shows a detail F4 of FIG. 3. FIG. 4 shows the distance T4 from the surface of the decorative panel 12 to the most distal contact point of the front lip 25 and the tongue 23 of the coupled decorative panel. The distance T4 is in the example less than 0.2 mm more than the depth T3 of the panel groove 34;

FIG. 5 shows a cross section along V-V of FIG. 1 of the coupling along the second pair of opposite edges 50, 51 of decorative panels according to aspects of the invention.

The second pair of edges comprises a third edge 50 and a fourth edge 51. The decorative panel comprises at the third edge 50 of the second pair of opposite edges a second male coupling part; and at a fourth edge 51 of the second pair of opposite edges a second female coupling part. The second male coupling part and the second female coupling part are configured such that two of such decorative panels, by means of the second male coupling part and the second female coupling part, can be coupled to each other in a plane, thereby realizing a coupled condition between the decorative panels. The second male coupling part comprises a second tongue 53 and the second female coupling part comprises a second groove 54. The second tongue 53 and second groove 54, in the coupled condition, form a tongue and groove connection, which realizes a mechanical locking between the decorative panels in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the decorative panels. The second groove 54 is bordered by a second front lip 55 and a second rear lip 56.

The second male coupling part and the second female coupling part each comprise a locking part 57, 58. The locking part 57 of the second male coupling part is provided by a recess at the rear side of the second tongue 53. The locking part 58 of the second female coupling part is provided by a protrusion at the front side of the second rear lip 56. In the coupled condition, the locking parts 57, 58, of the second male coupling part and of the second female coupling part realize a mechanical locking between the decorative panels in the direction in the plane of the decorative panels and perpendicular to the coupled edges.

The second rear lip 56 comprises at its rear side a recess 59 extending in proximal direction from the distal end of the second rear lip 56. The recess 59 is elongated in the direction parallel with the surface of the decorative panel 12. The recess 59 extends in proximal direction to beyond the locking part 58 of the second rear lip 56.

As shown in FIG. 5, in coupled condition of the decorative panels at their second pair of opposite edges 50, 51, a second panel groove 60 is provided at the decorative panel surface of the coupled decorative panels between the second front lip 55 and the panel edge of the coupled panel comprising the second tongue 53.

In the example shown, the second panel groove 60 is arranged in the same way as the panel groove 34.

The second panel groove 60 has width W4. In the example shown, the width W4 of the second panel groove 60 is the same as the width W3 of the panel groove 34.

The second panel groove 60 has depth T5, which is in the example the same as the depth T3 of the panel groove 34.

In the example shown, the depth T5 of the second panel groove 60 is about 0.1 mm smaller than the distance T6 from the surface of the decorative panel of the most distal contact point in coupled condition of the second front lip 55 with the second tongue 53 of the coupled decorative panels.

Although FIG. 1 shows decorative panels 12 according to the invention that have coupling parts at the edges of both pairs of opposite edges, it is possible that the decorative panels according to the invention only comprise coupling parts at one pair of opposite edges.

It is possible that the decorative panel according to the invention installed in a wall covering is wall high, meaning that the decorative panel extends from the floor to the ceiling of the room in which it is installed. For this purpose, the decorative panel can be produced in a length of at least 2400 mm and be cut to the required length for a wall high wall covering.

FIG. 6 shows an example of a wall covering comprising decorative panels 12 according to the first aspect as well as according to the second aspect of the invention. The decorative panels 12 comprise a plurality of slots 30 extending through the decorative top layer 13 into the core 14 of the decorative panels. The slots 30 have a curved course over the surface of the decorative panels 12. At the coupled edges between the decorative panels, a panel groove 34 is provided. The panel groove 34 has in the example shown the same width as the slots 30 extending through the decorative top layer of the decorative panels. The cross section of the coupling between the decorative panels is similar to the one shown in FIG. 3. The combination of the slots 30 and the panel groove 34 provide a nice decorative aspect to the wall covering.

Although FIG. 6 shows decorative panels in which each of the decorative panels have the same configuration and course of slots 30 extending through the decorative top layer into the core, this is not necessarily the case. The course of the slots 30 of the decorative panels in the wall covering can vary. This way, a large variety of decorative visuals can be made.

FIG. 7 shows a wall covering comprising a set of decorative panels according to the third aspect of the invention. FIG. 8 shows a cross section along VIII-VIII of FIG. 7 and FIG. 9 shows a cross section along IX-IX of FIG. 7. The reference numerals have the same meaning as in the other figures.

The set of decorative panels—and thus the wall covering—comprises first decorative panels 71 and second decorative panels 72.

The first decorative panels 71 and the second decorative panels 72 comprises a decorative top layer 13, a core 14 and a balancing layer 15. The core 14 can e.g. be a wood fiber board. The decorative top layer 13 is laminated onto the core 14. The decorative top layer 13 can comprise a melamine impregnated printed sheet of paper. The balancing layer 15 is provided at the bottom of the core 14 of the first decorative panel 71 and at the bottom of the core 14 of the second decorative panel 72. The balancing layer 15 can be provided by a resin impregnated sheet of paper laminated to the core 14 of the panels.

The first decorative panels 71 and the second decorative panels 72 are rectangular and oblong. The first decorative panels 71 and the second decorative panels 72 have the same size, however, this is not necessary for the invention.

The first decorative panels 71 as well as the second decorative panels 72 comprise a first pair of opposite edges 20, 21. Each of the first decorative panels 71 and the second decorative panels 72 comprises at a first edge 20 of the first pair of opposite edges a male coupling part and at a second edge 21 of the first pair of opposite edges a female coupling part. The male coupling part and the female coupling part are configured such that two such panels, by means of their male coupling part and their female coupling, can be coupled to each other in a plane, thereby realizing a coupled condition between the decorative panels.

The male coupling part comprises a tongue 23 and the female coupling part comprises a groove 24. The tongue 23 and groove 24, in the coupled condition, form a tongue and groove connection, which realizes a mechanical locking between the decorative panels in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the coupled decorative panels. The groove 24 is bordered by a front lip 25 and a rear lip 26. The male coupling part and the female coupling part each comprise a locking part 27, 28. The locking parts 27, 28 realize—in the coupled condition—a mechanical locking between the decorative panels in the direction in the plane of the decorative panels and perpendicular to the coupled edges 20, 21.

As shown is FIG. 8, which shows a cross section along VIII-VIII of FIG. 7, the first decorative panels 71 and the second decorative panels 72 are configured such that in coupled condition of a first decorative panel 71 with its tongue 23 in the groove 24 of a second decorative panel 72, a panel groove 34 is provided at the decorative panel surface of the coupled edges 20, 21, between the distal end 36 of the front lip 25 of the second decorative panel 72 and the panel edge 20 of the first decorative panel 71 comprising the tongue 23.

As shown in FIG. 9, which shows a cross section along IX-IX of FIG. 7, the first decorative panel 71 and the second decorative panel 72 are configured such that in coupled condition of the second decorative panel 72 with its tongue 23 in the groove 24 of the first decorative panel 71, a closing plane 74 of the second decorative panel contacts—preferably with tension—a closing plane 75 of the first decorative panel. The closing plane 75 of the first decorative e panel 71 is provided at the proximal end of the front lip of the first decorative panel.

The closing plane 74 of the second decorative panel 72 is provided by a plane of the panel edge 20 of the second decorative panel 72 comprising the tongue. This closing plane 74 is located between the tongue 23 and the decorative surface at the panel edge of the second decorative panel 72 comprising the tongue and is perpendicular to the decorative surface of the second decorative panel 72.

The first decorative panels 71 as well as the second decorative panels 72 are provided with slots 30 extending through their respective decorative top layer 13 into their respective core 14.

The first decorative panels 71 as well as the second decorative panels 72 are provided with slots 32 at their bottom. The slots 32 at the bottom of the first decorative panels 71 and at the bottom of the second decorative panels 72 extend through the balancing layer 15.

The combination of the slots 30 extending through their decorative top layer and the panel grooves 34 provide a decorative aspect to the wall covering.

The presence of the panel grooves 34 allows absorption of the expansion and contraction of the decorative panels of the wall covering when the humidity changes of the room in which the wall covering is installed. This can be of particular interest for wall coverings covering large walls, especially walls being very wide.

It is also possible that the first decorative panels and the second decorative panels are not provided with slots extending through the decorative top layer and are not provided with slots at the bottom of the decorative panels.

The present invention is in no way limited to the embodiments described as examples and represented in the figures, on the contrary the invention can be realized in various forms and dimensions, without leaving the scope of the invention.

The invention also relates to the following list of numbered items.

1.—Decorative panel, wherein the decorative panel (1012) comprises a decorative top layer (13), a core (14) and a balancing layer (15), wherein the decorative top layer is laminated onto the core and wherein the balancing layer is provided at the bottom of the core;

• • wherein the decorative panel is rectangular, square or oblong;
  • wherein the decorative panel comprises a first pair of opposite edges (20, 21);
  • wherein the decorative panel comprises at a first edge (20) of the first pair of opposite edges a male coupling part and at a second edge (21) of the first pair of opposite edges a female coupling part, wherein the male coupling part and the female coupling part are configured such that two of such decorative panels, by means of the male coupling part and the female coupling part, can be coupled to each other in a plane, thereby realizing a coupled condition between the decorative panels;
  • wherein the male coupling part comprises a tongue (23) and the female coupling part comprises a groove (24), which tongue and groove, in the coupled condition, form a tongue and groove connection, which realizes a mechanical locking between the decorative panels in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the decorative panels; wherein the groove is bordered by a front lip (25) and a rear lip (26); wherein the male coupling part and the female coupling part each comprise a locking part (27, 28); wherein the locking parts (27, 28), in the coupled condition, realize a mechanical locking between the decorative panels in the direction in the plane of the decorative panels and perpendicular to the coupled edges;
  • characterized in that the decorative surface of the panel comprises at least one slot (30)—and preferably a plurality of slots—extending through the decorative top layer (13) into the core (14); preferably wherein the at least one slot (30)—and preferably the plurality of slots—has over its full length a constant depth (T1).

2.—Decorative panel as in item 1, characterized in that the at least one slot (30) extending through the decorative top layer (13) is a plurality of slots, wherein at least part of—and preferably all of—the slots of the plurality of slots have the same width (W1); or in that a first part of the slots of the plurality of slots has a different width than a second part of the plurality of slots.

3.—Decorative panel as in any of the preceding items, characterized in that the at least one slot (30) extending through the decorative top layer (13) into the core (14) is a plurality of slots, wherein the distance between consecutive slots is constant.

4.—Decorative panel as in any of the preceding items, characterized in that the at least one slot (30) is a plurality of slots, wherein the plurality of slots have the same depth (T1).

5.—Decorative panel as in any of the preceding items, characterized in that the decorative panel (1012) comprises at least one slot (32) at the bottom of the decorative panel, wherein the at least one slot at the bottom of the decorative panel extends through the balancing layer (15); preferably wherein the at least one slot at the bottom of the decorative panel is provided parallel to the first pair of opposite edges (20, 21); preferably wherein the at least one slot at the bottom of the decorative panel is a plurality of slots provided at the bottom of the decorative panel, more preferably equidistant to each other.

6.—Decorative panel as in item 5, characterized in that the at least one slot (32) at the bottom of the decorative panel is provided over the full length of the decorative panel.

7.—Decorative panel as in any of the preceding items 1-4 and as in any of the preceding items 5-6, characterized in that the sum of the depth (T1) of the at least one slot (30) extending through the decorative top layer (13) into the core (14) and the depth (T2) of the at least one slot (32) at the bottom of the decorative panel is less than the thickness (T) of the decorative panel; and preferably less than 70% of the thickness of the decorative panel; and more preferably less than 60% of the thickness of the decorative panel; and more preferably less than 50% of the thickness of the decorative panel.

8.—Decorative panel as in any of the preceding items 1-4 and as in any of the preceding items 5-7, characterized in that no slot (30) of the at least one slot extending through the decorative top layer into the core extends into a slot (32) of the at least one slot at the bottom of the decorative panel.

9.—Decorative panel as in as in any of the preceding items 1-4 and as in any of the preceding items 5-8, characterized in that no plane perpendicular to the decorative panel and parallel with the first pair of opposite edges (20, 21) cuts through a slot (30) of the at least one slot extending through the decorative top layer into the core and through a slot (32) of the at least one slot at the bottom of the decorative panel.

10.—Decorative panel as in any of the preceding items 1-4 and as in any of the preceding items 5-9, characterized in that the at least one slot (30) extending through the decorative top layer (13) and the at least one slot (32) at the bottom of the decorative panel (12) are parallel with the first pair of opposite edges (20, 21); and that the shortest distance (D1) between on the one hand a plane (A1) perpendicular to the decorative panel and parallel with the first pair of opposite edges and through a slot (30) of the at least one slot extending through the decorative top layer (13) into the core; and on the other hand a plane (A2) perpendicular to the decorative panel and parallel with the first pair of opposite edges (20, 21) and through a slot (32) of the at least one slot at the bottom of the decorative panel is at least 1 mm, more preferably at least 1.5 mm; and preferably less than 3 mm.

11.—Decorative panel as in any of the preceding items 1-4 and as in any of the preceding items 5-10, characterized in that the depth (T1) of the at least one slot (30) extending through the decorative top layer (13) into the core is larger than the depth (T2) of the at least one slot (32) at the bottom of the decorative panel; preferably wherein the difference in depth is at least 15%—and preferably at least 20%—of the total thickness (T) of the decorative panel.

12.—Decorative panel as in any of the preceding items 1-4 and as in any of the preceding items 5-11, characterized in that the decorative panel (12) comprises a number N1 of slots (30) extending through the decorative top layer into the core, and in that the decorative panel (12) comprises a number N2 of slots (32) at the bottom of the decorative panel; wherein N1 equals N2.

13.—Decorative panel, preferably a decorative panel (12) as in any of the preceding items, wherein the decorative panel (12) comprises a decorative top layer (13), a core (14) and a balancing layer (15), wherein the decorative top layer (13) is laminated onto the core (14) and the balancing layer (15) is provided at the bottom of the core (14) of the decorative panel (12);

• • wherein the decorative panel is rectangular, square or oblong;
  • wherein the decorative panel comprises a first pair of opposite edges (20, 21);
  • wherein the decorative panel comprises at a first edge (20) of the first pair of opposite edges a male coupling part and at a second edge (21) of the first pair of opposite edges a female coupling part, wherein the male coupling part and the female coupling part are configured such that a first such decorative panel and a second such decorative panel, by means of the male coupling part of the first such decorative panel and the female coupling part of the second such decorative panel, can be coupled to each other in a plane, thereby realizing a coupled condition between the decorative panels;
  • wherein the male coupling part comprises a tongue (23) and the female coupling part comprises a groove (24), which tongue (23) and groove (24), in the coupled condition, form a tongue and groove connection, which realizes a mechanical locking between the decorative panels in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the decorative panels; wherein the groove (24) is bordered by a front lip (25) and a rear lip (26); and wherein the male coupling part and the female coupling part each comprise a locking part (27, 28); wherein the locking parts (27, 28), in the coupled condition, realize a mechanical locking between the decorative panels in the direction in the plane of the decorative panels and perpendicular to the coupled edges (20, 21);
  • characterized in that the decorative panel (12) is configured such that in coupled condition a panel groove (34) is provided at the decorative panel surface of the coupled edges (20, 21), between the distal end (36) of the front lip (25) of the second such decorative panel and the panel edge (20) comprising the tongue of the first such decorative panel.

14.—Decorative panel as in item 13, characterized in that the panel groove (34) has at least the same depth (T3) as the thickness of the front lip measured at the distal end of the front lip.

15.—Decorative panel as in item 13, characterized in that the depth (T3) of the panel groove (34) is at most 0.5 mm—and preferably at most 0.2 mm—less than the distance (T4) from the surface of the decorative panel of the most distal contact point in coupled condition of the front lip (25) to the tongue (23) of the coupled decorative panel.

16.—Decorative panel as in any of the preceding items 1-4 and as in any of the preceding items 13-15 and preferably as in any of the preceding items 5-12, characterized in that the panel groove (34) has the same width as the at least one slot (30)—and preferably of a plurality of slots and more preferably of all slots of the at least one slot—extending through the decorative top layer (13) into the core.

17.—Decorative panel as in any of the preceding items 1-4 and as in any of the preceding items 13-16 and preferably as in any of the preceding items 5-12, characterized in that the panel groove (34) has the same depth as the at least one slot (30) extending through the decorative top layer (13) into the core.

18.—Decorative panel as in any of the preceding items 1-4 and as in any of the preceding items 13-17 and preferably as in any of the preceding items 5-12, characterized in that the at least one slot (30) extending through the decorative top layer (13) into the core is a plurality of slots and in that the combination of the panel groove (34) and the plurality of slots (30) extending through the decorative top layer (13) provide in coupled condition of a plurality of decorative panels a visual image of equally spaced grooves at the decorative surface of the decorative panel.

19.—Decorative panel as in any of the preceding items, wherein the decorative panel (12) comprises a second pair of opposite edges (50, 51), wherein the second pair of edges comprises a third edge (50) and a fourth edge (51), wherein the decorative panel comprises at a third edge (50) of the second pair of opposite edges a second male coupling part and at a fourth edge (51) of the second pair of opposite edges a second female coupling part, wherein the second male coupling part and the second female coupling part are configured such that two of such decorative panels, by means of the second male coupling part and the second female coupling part, can be coupled to each other in a plane, thereby realizing a coupled condition between the decorative panels;

• • wherein the second male coupling part comprises a second tongue (53) and the second female coupling part comprises a second groove (54), which second tongue (53) and second groove (54), in the coupled condition, form a tongue and groove connection, which realizes a mechanical locking between the decorative panels in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the decorative panels; wherein the second groove (54) is bordered by a second front lip (55) and a second rear lip (56); and wherein the second male coupling part and the second female coupling part each comprise a locking part (57, 58); wherein the locking parts (57, 58), of the second male coupling part and of the second female coupling part, in the coupled condition, realize a mechanical locking between the decorative panels in the direction in the plane of the decorative panels and perpendicular to the coupled edges (50, 51);
  • characterized in that the decorative panel is configured such that in coupled condition a second panel groove (60) is provided at the decorative panel surface of the coupled edge between the second front lip (55) and the panel edge (50) comprising the second tongue (53).

20.—Decorative panel as in item 19, characterized in that the second panel groove (60) has substantially the same depth (T5) as the thickness of the second front lip (55) measured at the distal end of the second front lip (55).

21.—Decorative panel as in item 19 or 20, characterized in that the depth (T5) of the second panel groove (60) is at most 0.5 mm—and preferably at most 0.2 mm—less than the distance (T6) from the surface of the decorative panel of the most distal contact point in coupled condition of the second front lip (55) to the second tongue (53) of the coupled decorative panels.

22.—Decorative panel as in any of the preceding items 19-21 as well as in any of the preceding items 13-18, characterized in that the panel groove (34) and the second panel groove (60) have the same width and/or the same depth.

23.—Decorative panel as in any of the preceding items, characterized in that the decorative top layer (13) comprises a resin impregnated-preferably printed-sheet of paper (16), and optionally a wear layer (17).

24.—Decorative panel as in item 23, characterized in that the resin impregnated-preferably printed-sheet of paper (16) is adhered to the core (14) by the resin of the resin impregnated sheet of paper.

25.—Decorative panel as in any of the preceding items 23-24, characterized in that the resin of the resin impregnated sheet of paper (16) is selected from a melamine resin, a urea formaldehyde resin, an acrylate resin, a polyurethane resin, or combinations thereof.

26.—Decorative panel as in any of the preceding items 1-22, characterized in that the decorative top layer (13) comprises a décor printed on the core and a wear layer, preferably wherein the wear layer comprises a lacquer layer, more preferably wherein the lacquer layer is selected from an acrylate lacquer, a polyurethane lacquer, a polyester lacquer, or combinations thereof.

27.—Decorative panel as in any of the preceding items, characterized in that the decorative panel comprises a wear layer, wherein the wear layer comprises or consists of a resin impregnated sheet of paper—e.g. a resin impregnated alpha-cellulose paper—or a lacquer layer.

28.—Decorative panel as in any of the preceding items, characterized in that the balancing layer (15) comprises a resin impregnated sheet of paper, preferably wherein the resin impregnated sheet of paper of the balancing layer is adhered to the bottom of the core by the resin with which the resin impregnated sheet of paper of the balancing layer is impregnated; and/or preferably wherein the resin of the resin impregnated sheet of paper of the balancing layer is selected from a melamine resin, a urea formaldehyde resin, an acrylate resin, a polyurethane resin, or combinations thereof.

29.—Decorative panel as in any of the preceding items 1-28, characterized in that the balancing layer (15) comprises or consists of a lacquer layer, preferably selected from an acrylate lacquer layer, a polyurethane lacquer layer, a polyester lacquer layer, or combinations thereof.

30.—Decorative panel as in any of the preceding items, characterized in that the core (14) comprises or is selected from:

• • a wood-based board, e.g. a wood fiber board, a wood chip board, a plywood board or an oriented strand board (OSB); or
  • a mineral based board, e.g. a cement fiber board, a magnesium oxide based board or a gypsum board.

31.—Decorative panel as in any of the preceding items, characterized in that the locking part (27) of the male coupling part is provided on the rear side of the tongue (23) and the locking part (28) of the female coupling part is provided on the front side of the rear lip (26).

32.—Decorative panel as in any of the preceding items, characterized in that the core (14) is pigmented, preferably wherein the core is pigmented black.

33.—Decorative panel as in any of the preceding items, characterized in that the decorative panel has a length of at least 2400 mm.

34.—Decorative panel as in any of the preceding items, characterized in that the decorative panel is less than 12.5 mm thick, and preferably less than 10.5 mm thick.

35.—Set of decorative panels comprising a first decorative panel (71) and a second decorative panel (72),

• • wherein the first decorative panel (71) and the second decorative panel (72) each comprises a decorative top layer (13), a core (14) and optionally a balancing layer (15), wherein the decorative top layer (13) is laminated onto the core (14);
  • wherein each of the first decorative panel and the second decorative panel is rectangular, square or oblong;
  • wherein each of the first decorative panel and the second decorative panel comprises a first pair of opposite edges (20, 21);
  • wherein each of the first decorative panel and the second decorative panel comprises at a first edge (20) of the first pair of opposite edges a male coupling part and at a second edge (21) of the first pair of opposite edges a female coupling part, wherein the male coupling part and the female coupling part are configured such that two such panels, by means of their male coupling part and their female coupling, can be coupled to each other in a plane, thereby realizing a coupled condition between the decorative panels;
  • wherein the male coupling part comprises a tongue (23) and the female coupling part comprises a groove (24), which tongue (23) and groove (24), in the coupled condition, form a tongue and groove connection, which realizes a mechanical locking between the decorative panels in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the coupled decorative panels; wherein the groove (24) is bordered by a front lip (25) and a rear lip (26); and wherein the male coupling part and the female coupling part each comprise a locking part (27, 28); wherein the locking parts (27, 28), in the coupled condition, realize a mechanical locking between the decorative panels in the direction in the plane of the decorative panels and perpendicular to the coupled edges (20, 21);
  • characterized in that the first decorative panel and the second decorative panel are configured such that in coupled condition of the first decorative panel (71) with its tongue (23) in the groove (24) of the second decorative panel (72), a panel groove (34) is provided at the decorative panel surface of the coupled edges (20, 21), between the distal end (36) of the front lip (25) of the second decorative panel (72) and the panel edge (20) of the first decorative panel (71) comprising the tongue;
  • and in that the first decorative panel (71) and the second decorative panel (72) are configured such that in coupled condition of the second decorative panel (72) with its tongue (23) in the groove (24) of the first decorative panel (71), a closing plane (74) of the second decorative panel (72) contacts—preferably with tension—a closing plane (75) of the first decorative panel (71);
  • wherein the closing plane (75) of the first decorative panel (71) is provided at the proximal end of the front lip of the first decorative panel; and the closing plane (74) of the second decorative panel (72) is provided by a plane of the panel edge (20) of the second decorative panel (72) comprising the tongue, wherein the closing plane (74) is located between the tongue (23) and the decorative surface at the panel edge of the second decorative panel comprising the tongue.

36.—Set of decorative panels as in item 35, characterized in that the first decorative panel (71) is a decorative panel as in any of the preceding items 13-34.

37.—Set of decorative panels as in any of the items 35-36, characterized in that the second decorative panel (72) is a decorative panel as in any of the preceding items 1-12 and/or that the second decorative panel comprises one or more features as specified in items 19-34.

38.—Wall covering, wherein the wall covering (10) comprises two decorative panels (12) as in any of the preceding items, wherein the first decorative panel of the two decorative panels is coupled with its male coupling part to the female coupling part of the second decorative panel of the two decorative panels.