Patent attributes
A locking system for mechanically joining a plurality of panels or components of an article of construction without the need for glue or other adhesive is provided. The panels are preferably solid hardwood flooring panels. Each panel includes first and second locking members spaced beneath its outer surface. The first locking member is at one side edge of the panel and has two spaced-apart flexible arm portions, at least one arm portion including a first latching member. Preferably, the first latching member is a rib extending outward from the arm portion. The second locking member is at another side edge and includes a channel recessed within the side edge. The channel is sized to receive the arm portions without them having to contact the channel unless deflected within the channel. The second locking member also includes a second latching member positioned and adapted to engage the first latching member. The second latching member is preferably a slot abutting the channel. At least one of the locking members is provided with a positioning member so that upon inserting the first locking member on one panel into the second locking member on another panel for joining them together, the positioning member deflects an arm portion to securely engage the first latching member with the second latching member. The positioning member is preferably a wedge mounted to the back wall of the channel.
