WO2011080415A1

WO2011080415A1 - Decorative module, decorative surface and production method

Info

Publication number: WO2011080415A1
Application number: PCT/FR2010/000840
Authority: WO
Inventors: Olivier Casier; Eric Monnot
Original assignee: Olivier Casier; Eric Monnot
Priority date: 2009-12-16
Filing date: 2010-12-16
Publication date: 2011-07-07
Also published as: FR2953758B1; FR2953758A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a decorative module (20a) comprising a plurality of adjacent strips (1a, 2a), characterised in that each strip (1a, 2a) comprises at least two portions with different neutral axis orientations. The invention also relates to a decorative surface, in particular a panel or a floor, characterised in that it is formed by multiple decorative modules (20a) fitted together. The invention further relates to a method for producing a decorative module (20a) comprising a plurality of adjacent strips (1a, 2a), characterised in that the production of one decorative module (20a) comprises the use of strips (1a, 2a) that each include at least two portions with different neutral axis orientations.

Description

DECORATIVE MODULE, DECORATIVE SURFACE AND METHOD OF OBTAINING

The present invention relates to a decorative module comprising a plurality of elongated and curved elements disposed adjacently to form backs or valleys. The present invention also relates to a decorative surface formed by the assembly of such decorative modules. The present invention finally relates to a method for obtaining such decorative modules.

Document US Pat. No. 7,572,495 describes laminated panels made of decorative wood composed of elements derived from staves. These decorative panels thus make it possible to recycle staves previously used in the form of barrels intended for raising wine or any other alcoholic beverage. The inner edges of each stave have a different appearance than the outer edges of the staves. This particular difference in color is related to the penetration of alcoholic beverage components in the inner edges of the staves in contact with the alcoholic beverage during aging and / or burning of the interior of the barrel during its manufacture. To make the decorative panels, the sides of the staves are first machined to have a cross section whose sides are parallel to each other. Then, several blades are cut in each stave. These blades are then joined to each other to form a decorative panel so that the inner concave edge of each blade is adjacent to the outer convex edge of another blade and so on to the edge of the decorative panel. Each decorative panel thus comprises, depending on its direction of installation and its sense of observation, backs or recesses. For some applications in which the decorative panels are highly stressed, this Blade arrangement generates some mechanical weaknesses. The decorative panels of US Pat. No. 7,572,495 may be arranged adjacent to each other so as to form a succession of backs or valleys (depending on the direction of observation) or an alternation of troughs and backs. When their appearance is different, the alternation of the inner and outer edges provides a decorative pattern formed of alternating stripes of contrasting appearance. This decorative motif is however monotonous and unoriginal. When the decorative modules of this type are assembled to each other, for example to form a floor, they form a regular grid, very repetitive, which emerges a classic and monotonous impression. As noted above, these decorative panels remain fragile.

Furthermore, the decorative panels of US 7,572,495 are formed of staves whose ends are aligned with each other, or staggered, without the shift mode is specified. In the case where the ends of the staves are aligned and that it is desired to avoid having an alignment of the ends in the decorative panel, the length of the decorative panels is limited to the length of the staves available or to a length less than staves available. This arrangement therefore imposes a very limited choice of lengths of decorative panels. When the alignment of the ends of the staves is included in the length of the decorative panel, this alignment creates a line of weakness of the mechanical strength of the decorative panel.

The average duration of the use of barrels for high-end wines is of the order of two to five years and barrels are considered to have no value for wine aging. Once at the rebus, used barrels are sometimes recycled into flower boxes, firewood or furniture such as bar chairs, tables or armchairs. However, no method allows today to manufacture robust decorative panels including stem recycling stems by limiting the amount of waste.

The present invention aims to remedy these drawbacks by proposing an alternative for a decorative module, this decorative module offering reinforced mechanical strength and a homogeneous assembly while proposing a new and original aesthetic. The present invention also aims to provide a decorative surface formed by the assembly of such decorative modules, this decorative surface being mechanically resistant and having an alternative to known decorative surfaces. Finally, the present invention aims to provide an alternative method of producing decorative modules for making resistant decorative panels while optimizing the use of the components of the decorative panels, especially when they consist of staves drum.

The invention relates to a decorative module comprising a plurality of blades arranged adjacently. This decorative module is remarkable in that each blade comprises at least two portions having orientations of their neutral fiber different from each other.

We speak of neutral fiber having different orientations, when the orientation of the neutral fiber changes from one portion to another, namely when the neutral fiber passes from a curved portion to a rectilinear portion (and vice versa), when the neutral fiber passes from a curved portion having the centers of its (or its) radius (s) disposed on one side of the neutral fiber to another curved portion having the centers of its (or its) radius (s) disposed on the other side of the neutral fiber, and / or - A - when the neutral fiber passes from a rectilinear portion to another rectilinear portion, these two rectilinear portions having secant directions.

Due to the different orientations of the neutral fiber, the decorative module according to the invention has optimum mechanical strength.

Each blade may comprise at least a first curved portion in a first direction and a rectilinear portion. The use of rectilinear portion optimizes the rate of use of the elements constituting the decorative module, especially when it is made from staves.

Each blade may also comprise at least a first curved portion in a first direction and a second curved portion in a second direction opposite to said first direction, each blade thus defining, at least in part, a general shape of sinusoid or equivalent.

Each blade may finally comprise a rectilinear portion framed by a first and a second curved portion whose curvature value is substantially identical so as to define, at least in part, a general shape of regular sinusoid or equivalent.

Advantageously, at least one blade is composed of at least two longitudinal elements abutting and defining between them a discontinuity.

In the present application, the term "longitudinal element" is used to describe an element whose length (longitudinal dimension) is, in the longest direction of the stave, greater than the width (transverse dimension). We speak of longitudinal element and longitudinal edge extending in the longitudinal direction. The term "transverse direction" is used to define a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and contained in the frontal plane of the stave, plane in which the visible surface of the stave is the most important. Moreover, the term "discontinuity" is used to describe a break, a separation between two butted elements.

The elements may advantageously be arranged so that the discontinuity coincides with a change of orientation of the neutral fiber.

According to a preferred embodiment, the decorative module comprises at least a first and a second blade, each composed of at least two abutting longitudinal elements and defining between them respectively a first and a second discontinuity, the elements of the first and second blades being arranged so that the first and second discontinuities are offset in the longitudinal direction.

According to a preferred embodiment that can be combined with the preceding one, the decorative module comprises at least a first and a third blade, each composed of at least two longitudinal butted elements and defining between them respectively a first and a third discontinuity, the elements of each of the first and third blades and the first and third blades being arranged so that the first and third discontinuities are aligned in the longitudinal direction.

Advantageously, at least the first blade comprises at least one "second element" provided with at least one rectilinear portion abutting a curved portion, the second blade comprises at least one "second element" provided with at least one curved portion abutting a straight portion, the first and second blades being arranged so that the straight portions of the first and second blades are adjacent and the curved portions of the first and second blades are disjoint. The term "first element" is also used herein to define an element having a single curved portion without rectilinear portion.

At least one of the blades may have at least one portion along which its first longitudinal edge is different from its second longitudinal edge. In the present application, it is considered that this difference may be a difference in mechanical property and / or composition and / or density and / or appearance (hue, color, ...) and / or any other difference. By contrast, similar edges are called edges having mechanical properties and / or composition and / or density and / or appearance (hue, color, ...) close.

According to a preferred embodiment, at least one of the longitudinal edges of a first element is different from the corresponding longitudinal edge of a secondary element disposed in the extension of the first element. The terms "first element" and "secondary element" are used here to differentiate two butted elements. These terms do not have the meaning of the terms "first element" and "second element" defined above concerning the rectilinear (s) and / or curvilinear portions of the element.

According to another preferred embodiment compatible with the preceding, at least a portion of at least one of the longitudinal edges of a first element is similar to the corresponding part of the longitudinal edge of the tertiary element tangent to the element. first. This configuration thus makes it possible to associate two or two similar parts of elements which promotes the strength of the assembly, in particular when these edges themselves are resistant. This gives decorative modules having a reinforced mechanical strength. At least a portion of the elements are advantageously formed from staves of barrels. Similarly, at least some of the elements are advantageously bonded together.

The elements can be arranged so that the outer contour of the decorative module allows it to be interlocked with other decorative modules of compatible contours to form a decorative surface. It is thus possible to assemble several similar or different decorative modules whose contours are arranged to allow this interlocking.

The elements of at least one same blade are preferably of substantially constant thickness and arranged between blades so that the blades ^' are contained in a plane.

The invention also relates to a decorative surface, in particular a panel or a floor. This decorative surface is remarkable in that it consists of several decorative modules as described, said decorative modules being nested with each other. This decorative surface offers an alternative to known decorative surfaces and high mechanical strength due to the different orientations of the neutral fiber.

The invention finally relates to a method for producing a decorative module comprising a plurality of blades arranged adjacently. This method is remarkable in that one uses, to achieve the same decorative module, blades each having at least two portions having orientations of their neutral fiber different from each other.

This manufacturing method presents an alternative to the known methods and makes it possible to produce resistant decorative modules while optimizing the use of the elements constituting the decorative modules, in particular when these elements are formed from staves. At least one first and one second blade is formed using each to form at least two butted elements separated by a discontinuity, and the elements and the first and second blades are assembled so that the discontinuities of the first and second blades are offset in the longitudinal direction. This arrangement makes it possible to reinforce the mechanical strength of the decorative module obtained.

Advantageously used a first blade having at least one "second element" provided with at least one curved portion abutting a straight portion and a second blade provided with at least one "second element" provided with at least one butted curved portion to a rectilinear portion and in that the first and second blades are arranged so that the rectilinear portions of these two elements are adjacent and that said curved portions of these two same elements are disjoint.

According to a preferred procedure, at least one element is selected having at least one longitudinal edge similar to that of a longitudinal edge of another element and in that the elements are arranged so that the longitudinal edges are similar tangent at least partly from each other.

Drum staves can be used to form at least part of the elements and, before assembling the elements, at least two stave elements can be extracted by cutting each stave element into two substantially parallel cutting planes between them and defining the lateral edges of the corresponding element, the cutting planes of the stave elements being intersecting from one stave element to another.

Advantageously, there is carried out a calibration step of the stave element to obtain an element having a constant thickness along its length, between its outer and inner edges formed by the curvature of the stave.

The invention is described below, by way of non-limiting example, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is an elevational view of a stave used to produce a decorative module according to the invention; FIGS. 2A, 2B and 2C are views of the stave of FIG. 1, respectively in section along the sectional plane AA of FIG. 1, on the side in direction B of FIG. 1 and in section along the plane of FIG. CC section of Figure 1; FIG. 3 is a view from above of several blades, each formed of two abutting elements, the blades being represented before assembly;

FIG. 4 is a view from above of a decorative module according to a first embodiment, this decorative module being formed by several blades of FIG. 3 arranged in an adjacent manner and whose edges define a sinusoid;

FIGS. 5A to 5E are alternative embodiments of the decorative module of FIG. 4; FIG. 6 is a plan view of a decorative surface formed by the combination of several decorative modules substantially similar to those of FIG. 4;

FIG. 7 is a view from above of a decorative module according to a second embodiment, this decorative module being formed by several blades of Figure 3 arranged adjacently and whose edges define a rectangle;

FIG. 8 is a plan view of a decorative surface formed by the combination of several decorative modules of FIG. 6;

FIGS. 9 and 10 are respectively views in elevation and on the side of the stave, similar to FIGS. 1 and 2B and showing the staves elements cut in each stave during the step of extracting the method of producing a module decorative device according to the invention;

FIGS. 11A and 11B are enlarged sectional views of the stave along the section planes DD and EE of FIG. 9, schematizing the quantity of material removed from the stave during the calibration step of the method for producing a stencil. decorative module according to the invention.

In the following description of the invention, there are described decorative modules and decorative surfaces obtained from a stave. It is understood that, if the invention is particularly advantageous when it is performed in this way, it is however not limited to this embodiment. The decorative modules and decorative surfaces can be made from any other elements of wood or other material such as for example concrete, plastic materials, composite material or any other suitable material.

Figures 1, 2A, 2B and 2C illustrate a stave 10 used to manufacture a decorative module according to the invention. Staves 10 are wood panels, for example made of oak, formed and assembled to form drums (not shown), for example used for breeding wine or any other alcoholic beverage. During wine aging, the inner edges 11 of the staves 10 are in contact with the wine while the outer edges 12 are in contact with the ambient air. The aging of the wood constituting the inner 11 and outer edges 12 is different. In particular, the inner edges 11 are heated or burned during the forming of the drum, a step also called burning or bousinage or toasting. In addition, the inner edges 11 are, in the long run, tinted by the wine contained in the barrel. Thus, the inner edges 11 of the staves 10 are generally darker than the outer edges 12 of the same staves 10. In addition to this different appearance between the inner 11 and outer 12 edges, the latter also have a different chemical composition related to the impregnation of alcoholic beverage and toasting and therefore different mechanical properties. It is well understood that the combination of two edges of the same composition and having similar mechanical properties is more favorable to the robustness of the mechanical strength of the assembly than the combination of different edges, in particular when these two edges are themselves even the most resistant of which is the case of the external edges of the barrel staves.

As can be seen from FIGS. 2A to 2C, the wooden panel forming the stave 10 is curved along the longitudinal and transverse directions. In addition, the stave 10 has a thickness e which varies along its length. At its longitudinal ends, the stave 10 is provided with recesses 13 for receiving and blocking elements (not shown) forming the bottom of the barrel. In order to ensure cohesion between the staves 10, they are circled by means of a metal strapping (not shown). To achieve the decorative module according to the invention, the staves 10 are disengaged one others to be transformed and assembled to form decorative modules as described below, with particular reference to the method of production. In particular, the staves 10 are cut into stave elements having a substantially similar and constant width and thickness, which elements are then assembled to form slats.

FIG. 3 illustrates four blades 1a, 2a, shown spaced from one another and intended to be arranged in an adjacent and tangent manner, glued together to form a decorative module 20a as represented in FIG. 4.

In this example, each blade la, 2a comprises a "first element" 3 and a "second element" 4 toboutés. Each "first element" 3 has a first curved portion, curved in a single direction so that the neutral fiber of the "first element" 3 has a first orientation. Each "second element" 4 comprises a second curved portion, curved in a single direction so that the neutral fiber of the second curved portion of the "second element" 4 has a second orientation different from the first orientation. Indeed, the centers of the bending radii for forming the first bend and those for forming the second bend are respectively positioned on one side and the other side of each plate 1a, 2a and in particular of its neutral fiber . The second curved portion is framed by two rectilinear portions, one of which is placed in the extension of the "first element" 3 to form the blade la, 2a. Each of these rectilinear portions has a neutral fiber in a third and a fourth orientation, different from each other and different from the first and second orientations. Indeed, the rectilinear portions having an infinite radius, it is considered that their Neutral fibers have different orientations than curved portions. In addition, the rectilinear portions are secant, the orientations of their neutral fibers are different from each other. The first curved portion is symmetrical with respect to a plane passing through its middle. Similarly, the second curved portion is symmetrical with respect to a plane passing through its middle. In addition, the rectilinear portions are of the same length. The curvature of the first curved portion is substantially similar to that of the second curved portion. Each blade la, 2a of Figure 4 thus forms a regular sinusoid. We also see that, for each edge of the blade la, 2a, there is a change of appearance along the blade la, 2a by the alternation of the inner edges 11 and outer 12 and therefore mechanical characteristics.

In an alternative embodiment not shown, the sinusoid formed by each blade may be non-regular, with alternating different curved zones.

For ease of understanding, will be called in the following description "first element" 3 an element having a single curved portion without rectilinear portion and "second element" 4 an element having a curved portion framed by two rectilinear portions. It is understood that in other embodiments not shown, it is also possible to use "first elements" and / or "second elements" each comprising, for example:

a curved portion followed by a rectilinear portion, a curved portion framed by two rectilinear portions,

a curved portion followed by another curved portion with a change of orientation between the two curved portions,

a rectilinear portion followed by a curved portion, a rectilinear portion framed by two portions curved,

a rectilinear portion followed by another rectilinear portion with a change of orientation between the two rectilinear portions.

It has been previously seen that because of contact with the wine during barrel aging, the inner edges 11 of the corresponding blades 1a, 2a within the staves have an appearance and mechanical and / or chemical properties and / or a composition different from that of the outer edges 12, namely generally darker for appearance.

In the example of Figure 3, the first blade is. disposed so that the "second element" 4 is concave and the "first element" 3 is convex. The natural curvature of the staves 10 being preserved, there is therefore a break in the appearance of the edges of the plate 1a, 2a at each discontinuity of the plate 1a, 2a at the junction between the "first element" 3 and the "second element" 4. As described above, this difference in appearance is accompanied by a difference in mechanical characteristics not necessarily visible to the naked eye which, as will be seen later, makes it possible to obtain an assembly optimal elements between them and a robust decorative module. For ease of reading, we focus below on the difference in appearance of the edges knowing that mechanical and / or chemical differences are the essential differences to promote the assembly of elements.

Concerning the first blade 1a, the dark aspect of the inner edge 11 of the "first element" 3, which is in the lower part of the convex curvature, is followed by the clear appearance of the outer edge 12 of the "second element" 4, which is in the lower part of the concave curvature. Similarly, the clear appearance of the edge 12 external of the "first element" 3, which is in the upper part of the convex curvature, is followed by the dark appearance of the inner edge 11 of the "second element" 4, which is in the upper part of the bend concave. The second blade 2a is identical to the first blade 1 but oriented differently. It is pivoted with respect to the first plate 1a of 180 ° in the plane of the decorative module 20a (Figure 4) to be formed so that the "second element" 4 is convex and the "first element" 3 concave. The following blades 1a, 2a are identical to the first and second blades 1a, 2a and arranged alternately in a substantially similar manner. Thus, the blades are identical to each other (first and third blades 1a) and blades 2a pairs identical to each other (second and fourth blades 2a).

FIG. 4 represents a first embodiment of a decorative module 20a formed by the assembly of ten adjacent and tangent blades 1a, 2a arranged substantially similar to those of FIG. 3 and assembled together by gluing. The blades la, 2a can be secured to each other by any other suitable means. Each blade la, 2a comprises at least "a first element" 3 and "a second element" 4 similar to those of Figure 3, butted and separated by a junction. Starting from the top of FIG. 4, the odd blades comprise a "second element" 4 followed by a "first element" 3 and the paired blades 2a comprise a "first element" 3 framed by a first segment 40 (straight portion ) of a "second member" 4 and a second segment 41 (curved portion abutted ^■ a straight portion) of a "second member" 4. for ease of understanding, will be referred in the following description "first segment "41 a segment comprising only a straight portion and" second segment "42 a segment having a curved portion abutting a straight portion.

The alternation of the dark and light edges in each blade la, 2a and between blades la, 2a, allows to obtain a new visual effect and especially a reinforced robustness of the assembly with alternating very dark zones, dark zones and clear areas. In this application, we call:

light area: an area where each of the adjacent longitudinal edges 12 is a clear edge 12 (outer edges of the elements when it comes to staves). The light areas correspond to areas in which the longitudinal edges 12 in contact have substantially similar mechanical and / or chemical properties, the similarity of the materials greatly favoring the robustness of the assembly obtained.

dark zone: an area in which, among the two adjacent longitudinal edges 11, 12, one is a clear longitudinal edge 12 (outer edge of one element when it is a stave), the other is a dark longitudinal edge 11 (inner edge of an element when it is a stave). The dark areas correspond to areas in which the longitudinal edges 11, 12 in contact have different mechanical and / or chemical properties, very dark zone: an area where each of the adjacent longitudinal edges 11 is a dark longitudinal edge 11 (inner edge of the elements when dealing with staves). The very dark areas correspond to areas in which the longitudinal edges 11 in contact have substantially similar mechanical and / or chemical properties, the similarity of the materials favoring the homogeneity of the assembly. Of course, depending on the differences in appearance, the terms dark and light may be replaced by other qualifiers describing the difference in appearance and / or composition between the edges of the elements and / or internal structure and / or characteristics mechanical. When it comes to a difference in appearance, it can be related to a color, we will speak for example of yellow edges and blue edges. This difference in appearance can also be related to an aspect of. surface, we will speak for example of smooth edges and rough edges. The difference in appearance between the edges may be different and be obtained artificially or naturally by any suitable means.

The decorative module is of course not limited to the use of element having different edges. The decorative module can be achieved by means of appearance elements and / or composition and / or properties, homogeneous over their entire surface and similar to each other. The robustness and homogeneity of the assembly is thus reinforced by the similarity of the materials. These elements may be identical to each other or slightly different. We can consider using different color elements.

With reference to FIG. 4, in the light areas where the light edges of two adjacent blades are tangent, the joining of the elements 3, 4 to one another can be obtained without altering the strength of this assembly by impregnating the wine in the edge of the original stave. As has been seen previously the bonding is reinforced by the similarity of the composition of the edges 12 and their mechanical and chemical properties. The decorative module 20a obtained is thus more solid than when all the light edges 11 are assembled at dark edges 12 and vice versa Indeed, in this case, none of the edges has a composition, mechanical properties and similar to the edges to which they are joined, which is not in favor of robust attachment. It is seen further in Figure 4 that the discontinuities of the blades la, 2a are not all aligned in the longitudinal direction but only one in two. The discontinuities of the odd blades are aligned with each other. It is the same for the discontinuities of the blades 2a pairs which are aligned with each other. The difference between the discontinuities of the blades 2a pairs and odd blades allows to obtain a decorative module 20a more robust than the known decorative modules. In this example, discontinuity line sections (s) are limited to the thickness of a plate 1a, 2a.

In an alternative embodiment not shown, the blades are continuous, each formed by a single element and have no discontinuity.

The ends of the. decorative module 20a of Figure 4 are rectilinear so that the decorative module 20a can be butted to another similar decorative module. It is also possible to use different decorative modules, such as for example those described with reference to FIGS. 5A to 5E. The longitudinal edges of the decorative module 20a of this figure follow the sinusoid formed by the blades 1a, 2a so that the decorative module 20a can be fitted to another decorative module having similar edges, whether its interior arrangement is similar or not.

In an alternative embodiment not shown, the ends of the decorative modules are not rectilinear but for example crenellated, each slot corresponding to the width of a blade. In this case, with reference to FIG. 4, the pair blades 2a may be devoid of their "first segments" 41 (in the left part of the paired blades 2a) and the "second segments" 42 (in the left part odd blades la) can be replaced by "second elements" 4 integers.

Figures 5A to 5E illustrate alternative embodiments of the decorative module 20a of Figure 4 described below, starting from the top of each of the figures.

The decorative module 20b of Figure 5A comprises ten blades lb, 2b combined in pairs. Both . first blades 1b comprise a "second segment" 42 of a concave "second element" 4 butted to a "first" element 3 convex itself abutting to a "first segment" 41 of a "second element" 4. 2b following blades comprise a "first element" 3 concave abutting a "second element" 4 convex. The other blades lb, 2b follow the same arrangement as the first four blades lb, 2b. In this example, discontinuity line sections (s) are limited to the thickness of two blades lb, 2b.

The decorative module 20c of Figure 5B has nine blades 1c, 2c combined by three. The first three blades comprise a "second element" 4 concave abutting a "first element" 3 convex. The following three blades 2c comprise a "first segment" 41 of a "second element" 4 abutting a "first" element 3 concave abutting a "second segment" 42 of a "second element" 4 convex. The other three blades are similar to the first three blades. In this example, discontinuity line sections (s) are limited to the thickness of three blades 1c, 2c.

The decorative module 20d of Figure 5C comprises ten blades ld, 2d alternating four blades ld identical with another blade 2d. The first four blades ld comprise a "second element" 4 concave abutting a "first element" 3 convex. The following blade 2d has a "first segment" 41 of a "second element" 4 abutting a "first element" 3 concave abutting a "second segment" 42 of a "second element" 4 convex. The following five blades 1d, 2d reproduce the arrangement of the first five blades 1d, 2d. In this example, the discontinuity line sections (s) are successively of a thickness of four blades ld and a blade 2d.

The decorative module 20e of FIG. 5D comprises ten blades 1a, 2e, of which twice four identical blades separated by two other identical adjacent second blades. The first four blades comprise a "second element" 4 concave abutting a "first element" 3 convex. The two following second blades comprise a "first segment" 41 of a "second element" 4 abutting a "first element" 3 concave abutting a "second segment" 42 of a "second element" 4 convex. The following four blades reproduce the arrangement of the first four blades. In this example, the discontinuity line sections (s) are successively of a thickness of four blades and two blades 2e.

The decorative module 20f of FIG. 5E comprises eight blades 1f, 2f, of which twice four blades 1f, 2f are identical. The first four blades 1f comprise a "first segment" 41 of a "second element" 4 abutting a "first" element 3 concave abutting a "second segment" 42 of a "second element" 4 convex. The following four blades 2f_ comprise a concave "second element" 4 butted to a "first" element 3 convex. In this example, the discontinuity line segments (s) are of a thickness of four blades lf, 2f.

In the examples of FIGS. 5A to ^5E, as in the example of FIG. 4, the alternation of the dark and light edges in each plate 1a, 2a and between plates 1a, 2a makes it possible to obtain a new visual effect and above all reinforced robustness of the assembly with in particular clear areas in which the robustness of the assembly is increased by the similarity of the assembled materials and very dark areas in which the homogeneity of the assembly is favored by the similarity of the assembled materials.

Figure 6 shows a decorative surface 100a formed by assembling a plurality of decorative modules 20f nested to each other. The decorative modules 20f are substantially similar to the module 20a of Figure 4 and differs in that it comprises six blades instead of ten. The decorative modules 20f are advantageously arranged in quiconce so that the junction line between the decorative modules 20f is not rectilinear. This arrangement makes it possible to obtain a robust decorative surface 100a. Floating ends formed by the ends of the decorative modules 20f protruding from either side of the decorative surface 100a can be cut so that the decorative surface 100a has two straight edges. From _. similarly, the wavy edges of the decorative surface 100a may be cut to have two other straight edges.

FIG. 7 illustrates another embodiment of a decorative module 20g according to the invention. This decorative module 20g comprises blades 1a, 1b similar to those of the decorative module 20a of FIG. 4 and arranged in a substantially similar manner. The decorative module 20g differs from the decorative module 20a in that:

for each odd blade, the convex "first element" 3 abutting the concave "second element" 4 is followed by a second segment 41 (rectilinear portion abutting a curved portion) of a concave "second element" 4;

for blade 2g pair, the "first element" 3 concave abutting a first segment 40 (straight portion) of a "second element" 4 is followed by a "second element" 4 convex itself followed by another " first element "3. For the sake of clarity only one of each of the slides 1g, 2g is detailed by its references in FIG. 7. It is understood that the blades 1g, 2g, respectively odd and even, are alternated one by two and that the references alternately apply to all slides lg, 2g. The lower and upper blades lg, 2g of the decorative module 20g are incomplete after having been cut to form the parallel edges of the decorative module 20g. As in the preceding examples, the alternation of the dark and light edges in each blade la, 2a and between blades 1a, 2a, makes it possible to obtain a new visual effect and especially a reinforced robustness of the assembly with, in particular, zones in which the robustness of the assembly is increased by the similarity of the assembled materials and very dark areas in which the homogeneity of the assembly is favored by the similarity of the assembled materials.

The outline of this decorative module 20g is rectangular. It can thus be combined with other rectangular decorative modules to form a decorative surface 100 as illustrated in Figure 7 which comprises nine decorative modules 20cj aligned in lines and columns respectively horizontal and vertical. This decorative surface 100 can be used as a floor, as a decorative panel or as a panel used in the composition of a volume element, for example furniture. The panels may be left free relative to each other or secured for example by gluing. They can also be individually fixed to a support, for example a wall when it is a decorative panel.

In an alternative embodiment not shown, the lines or columns forming the decorative surface are offset relative to each other to avoid the alignment of the junction zones between the decorative modules.

In yet another embodiment not shown, the decorative module 20g can be assembled to other non-rectangular decorative modules. The decorative module 20cj can also be cut to form a trapezium to be assembled with other decorative modules trapezoidal and / or triangular.

In the example shown in Figure 8, the decorative surface 100b comprises six decorative modules 20g nested to each other, these decorative modules 20g having similar outer shapes and dimensions of a decorative module 20g to another. It is also possible to use decorative modules having different shapes and sizes while allowing nesting. Thus, a basic decorative module may be replaced by several decorative sub-modules whose abutment to form the basic decorative module. It can thus be a decorative surface comprising, for example alternately, basic decorative modules and decorative submodules. Similarly it is possible to use the decorative modules to form a non-joined decorative surface. In this case, one or more empty zones will be preserved between certain decorative modules. These empty areas will have the shape delimited by the edges of adjacent decorative modules. These empty zones can also be filled by modules of other nature, for example plates each formed of a single element can be made of wood or any other material. The decorative modules may finally be non-adjacent to each other and for example integrated in a frame forming a grid, the lines forming the frame may be made of a solid material, for example concrete or equivalent. In the example of Figure 8, the decorative modules 20g are advantageously arranged in a quiconce so that the junction line between the decorative modules 20g is not rectilinear. This arrangement makes it possible to obtain a robust decorative surface 100b. In this arrangement, the decorative module 20g right of the upper line of the decorative surface 100b is returned relative to the decorative module 20g_ left of the same line to create a ripple continuity. The upper face of the decorative module 20g_ left and corresponds to the underside of the decorative module 20g right. The same goes for the following lines.

The decorative modules 20a-g may have any other contour than those illustrated by the figures, for example triangular, hexagonal or any other suitable form. It is also well understood that the decorative modules 20a-g may comprise a smaller or larger number of blades la-f, 2a-f than the illustrated examples. The decorative surfaces 100b obtained depend on the basic shape of the decorative modules 20a-g and their arrangement. Similarly, each decorative module 20a-g_ may be non-full and have one or more empty areas between some blades la-f, 2a-f. These empty zones will have the shape delimited by the edges of the adjacent blades la-f, 2a-f. The assembly of the blades la-f, 2a-f together in each decorative module 20a-g being mechanically robust, the decorative modules 20a-g can be cut to fit for example the edges of the decorative surface 100b serving as a floor contour the room in which the floor is to be installed. Thus, the decorative modules 20a-g at the floor edge will have a shape truncated with respect to their basic shape.

In an alternative embodiment not shown, staves blades may have a non-constant thickness to form for example a decorative module having an upper face inclined relative to its underside or undulating. The decorative module according to the invention may have any other upper and / or lower surface adapted to its use.

In the illustrated examples of decorative modules 20a-g, the discontinuities of the blades la-f between abutting elements, always coincide with a change of orientation of the neutral fiber. The decorative modules 20a-g may also comprise elements whose discontinuities do not coincide with the orientation changes of the neutral fiber. Thus, the change of orientation of the neutral fiber may be located between the ends of an element and not at one of its ends.

The method of producing a decorative module 20a-g according to the invention is described, in particular using FIGS. 9, 10, 11A and 11B. In order to assemble elements from staves to form a decorative module 20a-, it is necessary to start from curved elements, but not curved in two directions as are the staves.

A first step is therefore to extract in each stave 10 one (or more) staple member (s) 14. In order to make the process profitable and the recycling of the barrels, it is sought to extract several stave elements 14. FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate the extraction of three stave elements 14 of the same stave 10, these stave elements 14 having substantially parallel lateral edges, the inner and outer edges being curved and corresponding to the outer and inner faces of the starting wiper 10. To carry out this extraction, for each piece of stave 14, two cutting planes Pla, Plb and P2a, P2b and then P3a, P3b_ are used. substantially parallel two by two, Pla being substantially parallel to Plb and so on. These cutting planes are chosen so that between each staves element 14, the cutting planes are intersecting. Cutting Pla, Plb; P2a, P2b; P3a, P3b define, once the staple element 14 is extracted, the lateral edges of the corresponding stave element 14.

The stave elements 14 thus obtained have a profile corresponding to that of the stave 10, with a thickness varying over the length.

A second step is therefore to calibrate each piece 14 of stave 14 to obtain staves 14 of constant thickness along their entire length between their outer and inner edges, the outer and inner edges being formed by the curving of the stave 10 Figures 11A and 11B illustrate the amount of material to be removed in two distinct areas of each stave element 14, towards the end of the stave 10 for Figure 11A, in an intermediate region of the stave 10 for Figure 11B.

The first and second steps can be performed in reverse order, namely the calibration operation before the extraction operation. One can of course get rid of the first and second stages when the elements used are not staves and not bent in two directions.

A third step consists of cutting elements in the stave elements 14. To produce the decorative modules described above, at least two types of elements will be cut out, a "first element" 3 having a single curved portion without a rectilinear portion and a " second element "4 having a curved portion framed by two rectilinear portions. Additional elements may be provided for use in ends of the decorative module, namely a "first segment" element 41 having only a rectilinear portion, for example from the section of the "first element" 3 and a "second segment" element 42 having a curved portion abutting a rectilinear portion.

The method according to the invention thus makes it possible to optimally use the entire length of the staves 10, without discarding the rectilinear portions and by improving the robustness of the decorative modules 20a-g obtained.

A fourth step is to abut the "first element" 3, "second element" 4, "first segment" 41 and "second segment" 42 two by two to form blades la- g; 2a-g, the elements 3, 4, 41, 42 being separated two by two longitudinally by a discontinuity. The elements 3, 4, 41, 42 may be fixed to each other by gluing or by any other suitable means.

A fifth step is to join the slides la-g; 2a-g between them. The blades la-g; 2a-g can be fixed to each other by gluing or by any other suitable means.

The fourth and fifth steps can be done in reverse order, ie the adjacent elements 3, 4, 41, 42 can be glued together before being joined to other groups of elements 3, 4, 41, 42 previously. stuck together. During these operations, care will be taken to obtain a decorative module 20a-g having blades la-g; 2a-g whose discontinuities are offset in the longitudinal direction. This makes it possible to confer great robustness on the decorative module 20a-g. When using a first blade lag formed of at least a first element 3 and a second element 4 and a second blade 2a-g formed respectively at least a "first element" 3 and a "second element" 4, care is taken to arrange the elements 3, 4 so that at least one of the rectilinear portions of each of the "second element" 4 of the two blades la-g_, 2a-g are adjacent and that the curved portions of the "second elements" 4 of these two same blades are disjointed. During these steps, elements 3, 4, 41, 42 comprising at least two portions having neutral fiber orientations different from one another and / or the elements 3, 4, 41, 42 are chosen so that that the blade la-g_; 2a-g_ thus formed comprises at least two portions having neutral fiber orientations different from each other. In addition, a first element 3 having at least one edge different from that of one of the edges of a second element 4 is preferably selected and the first and second elements 3, 4 are abutted so that the different edges are in the same direction. extension of one another. Similarly, we associate the blades la-g; 2a-g with each other so that at least a portion of one of the edges of each blade la- g; 2a-g is adjacent with at least one similar edge of another blade la-; 2a-g. Beyond the interesting visual aspect that this arrangement can provide, it allows to associate two by two portions with similar physical and mechanical properties which promotes their association.

An optional sixth step is to shape the decorative module 20a-g_. During this step, for example, the ends of the decorative module 20a-g will be cut off so that. these are straight. We can also cut the decorative module 20a-g so as to give it a specific contour, rectangular, triangular, hexagonal or other.

It is clear from this description that the decorative module 20a-g, the decorative surface 100a, b and the method of producing a decorative module 20a-g such that described above allow to answer the problem of the invention. They make it possible to propose an alternative for producing decorative modules 20a-g and a decorative surface 100a, b made up of such decorative modules 20a-g, these decorative modules 20a-g being mechanically resistant, while optimizing the utilization rate. elements constituting these decorative modules 20a-g and this decorative surface 100a, b.

. It is understood that the examples described are only particular illustrations and in no way limiting the fields of application of the invention. Those skilled in the art can make arrangements of size, shape and material to the particular embodiment of the decorative module 20a-g, the decorative surface 100a, b and the production method without departing from the of the present invention.

Claims

1. Decorative module (20a-gJ having a plurality of blades (la-g, 2a-g) arranged adjacently, characterized in that each blade (la-g, 2a-g) comprises at least two portions having orientations of their neutral fiber different from each other.

2. decorative module (20a-g_) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that each blade (la-g, 2a-g) comprises at least a first curved portion in a first direction and a rectilinear portion.

3. decorative module (20a-g_) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in · that each blade (la-g, 2a-g) comprises at least a first curved portion in a first direction and a second curved portion in a second direction opposite to said first direction, each blade ( ^1a , 2a-g) thus defining, at least in part, a general shape of sinusoid or equivalent.

4. decorative module (20a-c [) according to claims 2 and 3, characterized in that each blade (la-g, 2a-g_) comprises a rectilinear portion framed by a first and a second curved portions whose value of curvature is substantially identical so as to define, at least in part, a general form of regular sinusoid or equivalent.

5. Decorative module (20a-g) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one blade (la-g, 2a-g) is composed of at least two elements (3, 4, 41 , 42) abutting and defining between them a discontinuity.

6. Decorative module (20a-g) according to claim 4, characterized in that said elements (3, 4, 41, 42) are arranged so that said discontinuity coincides with a change of orientation of said neutral fiber.

7. decorative module (20a-g) according to claim 4, characterized in that it comprises at least a first and a second blades (la-g, 2a-g), each composed of at least two elements (3, 4, 41, 42) abutting and defining between them respectively a first and a second discontinuity, said elements (3, 4, 41, 42) of said first and second blades (la-g, 2a-g) being arranged so that said first and second discontinuities are offset in the longitudinal direction.

8. decorative module (20a-g) according to claim 4, characterized in that it comprises at least a first and a third blades (la-g), each composed of at least two elements (3, 4) longitudinal abutting and defining therebetween first and third discontinuities respectively, said elements (3, 4) of each of said first and third blades (la-g) and said first and third blades (la-g) being arranged so that said first and third discontinuities are aligned in the longitudinal direction.

9. decorative module (20a-g) according to claims 5 to 7, characterized in that at least said first blade (la-g) comprises at least one "second element" (4) provided with at least one straight portion abutting a curved portion, in that said second blade (2a-g) comprises at least one "second element" (4) provided with at least one curved portion abutting a rectilinear portion, said first and second blades (the - 2 '2a-g) being arranged so that said rectilinear portions of said first and second blades (la-g, 2a-g) are adjacent and that said curved portions said first and second blades (la-g, 2a-g) are disjoint.

10. Decorative module (20a-g) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of said blades (la-g, 2a-g) comprises at least a portion along which its first longitudinal edge is different from its second longitudinal edge.

11. Decorative module (20a-g) according to claim 4, characterized in that at least one of the longitudinal edges (11, 12) of a first element is different from the corresponding longitudinal edge (12, 11) of a secondary element disposed in the extension of said first element.

12. Decorative module (20a-g) according to claim 4, characterized in that at least a portion of at least one of the longitudinal edges (11, 12) of an element (3, 4, 41, 42 ) first is similar to the corresponding portion of the longitudinal edge (11, 12) of the element (3, 4, 41, 42) tertiary tangent to the element (3, 4, 41, 42) first.

13. Decorative module (20a-g) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least a portion of said elements (3, 4, 41, 42) are formed from staves drums.

14. decorative module (20a-g) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least a portion of said elements (3, 4, 41, · 42) are glued together.

15. Decorative module (20a-g) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said elements (3, 4, 41, 42) are arranged so that the outer contour of said decorative module (20a-g) allows its interlocking with other decorative modules (20a-g) of compatible contours to form a decorative surface (100).

16. Decorative module (20a-çj) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said elements (3, 4, 41, 42) of at least one same blade (la-g, 2a-g) are of substantially constant thickness and arranged between blades (la-g_) so that said blades (la-g) are contained in a plane.

17. Decorative surface (100a, b), especially a panel or a floor, characterized in that it consists of several decorative modules (20a-g) according to any one of the preceding claims, said decorative modules (20a-g_ ) being nested with each other.

18. A method of producing a decorative module (20a-g_) having a plurality of blades (la-, 2a-g_) arranged adjacently, characterized in that one uses, to achieve the same decorative module (20a). -g), slides (la-g, 2a-g). each having at least two portions having orientations of their neutral fiber different from each other.

19. Method according to the preceding claim, characterized in that at least one first and one second blades (la-g, 2a-g) are formed using, to form each, at least two elements (3, 4, 41). , 42) abutted to one another and separated by a discontinuity, and in that said elements (3, 4, 41, 42) and said first and second blades (la-g, 2a-g) are assembled together. ) so that said discontinuities of said first and second blades (la-g, 2a-g) are offset in the longitudinal direction.

20. Method according to any one of claims 18 and 19, characterized in that one uses a first blade (la-g) comprising at least one "second element "(4) provided with at least one curved portion abutting a rectilinear portion and a second blade (2a-g) having at least one" second element "(4) provided with at least one curved portion joined to a portion rectilinear and in that one arranges said first and second blades (la-g, 2a-g) so that said rectilinear portions of these two elements (4,) are adjacent and that said curved portions of these two same elements ( 4,) are disjointed.

21. Method according to any one of claims 18 to 20, characterized in that one chooses at least one element (3, 4, 41, 42) having at least one longitudinal edge similar to that of a longitudinal edge d another element (3, 4, 41, 42) and in that said element elements (3, 4, 41, 42) are arranged such that said longitudinal edges are at least partly tangent to each other. the other.

22. Method according to any one of claims 18 to 21, characterized in that the staves (10) of drums are used to form at least a part of said elements (3, 4, 41, 42), and in that before assembling said elements (3, 4, 41, 42), at least two stave elements (14) are extracted by cutting each stave element (14) into two cutting planes (Pla, Plb, P2a, P2b, P3a, P3b) substantially parallel to each other and defining the lateral edges of said corresponding element (3, 4, 41, 42), said cutting planes (Pla, Plb, P2a, P2b, P3a, P3b) of said stave elements ( 14) being intersecting with each other from one stitch element (14) to another.

23. Method according to the preceding claim, characterized in that one proceeds to a step of calibrating said stave element (14) to obtain an element (3, 4, 41, 42) having a constant thickness on its length, between its edges (12, 11) external and internal formed by the curvature of said stave (10).