Decking System

Abstract

A decking system comprises a plurality of deck planks interconnected such that at least 60% of a surface of the deck plank system comprises openings to allow pass through of at least one of an environmental condition, such as, air, sunlight, rain, etc. The deck plank openings result from a plurality of evenly spaced parallel rib elements that span across from one side of the deck plank to the other side, wherein the spacing between the rib elements provides the pass through openings, and the rib elements are fixed and supported in their orientation by a plurality of rib spacers and U-shaped support tabs between the rib elements. The openings adjacent a first and second length side, comprise a plurality of regularly spaced, recessed fastening supports within them. The deck planks also comprise a plurality of inter-locking tabs at an external perimeter to facilitate assembly of the deck plank system.

Description

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE[0001]The present disclosure generally relates to a decking system, more specifically, the present disclosure is directed towards a decking system that conforms to specific federal guidelines currently unavailable in the market and prior art.BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE[0002]Decking systems are well known in the art and have been around for centuries. Typically, decking systems are used as outdoor flooring primarily for piers, docks, walkways, gangways, and the like. They are generally constructed from natural wood materials, cut to length, and assembled into the desired configuration. The downside of natural wood materials is that they have a limited life span due to extreme and cyclical outdoor environmental conditions, such as sun, heat, rain, cold, snow, sleet, mud, etc., as well as constant inundation by waves, saltwater, algae, moss, crustaceans, etc. And, because of their use as piers, walkways, docks, etc., natural wood decking material is further subj...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This patent describes a decking system made of interlocking deck planks that have a minimum of 60% of the deck plank area set as pass through for light, water, air, and other environmental elements. The deck planks have elongated openings and a working deck surface. They also have planar rib elements that support the deck plank's surface and are connected to rib splines and U-shaped support tabs. The deck planks can be fastened to a support structure to create a pier, walkway, or dock. The patent also mentions that various embodiments of the deck planks have different lengths, depths, and shapes. The technical effects of the invention are a decking system that provides a comfortable and durable surface while allowing for proper drainage and ventilation, as well as the ability to interlock with other deck planks for secure assembly.

Problems solved by technology

The downside of natural wood materials is that they have a limited life span due to extreme and cyclical outdoor environmental conditions, such as sun, heat, rain, cold, snow, sleet, mud, etc., as well as constant inundation by waves, saltwater, algae, moss, crustaceans, etc.

And, because of their use as piers, walkways, docks, etc., natural wood decking material is further subjected to the harsh conditions from general use.

However, coated and even pressure treated wood eventually fails subject to harsh conditions; and without constant maintenance and repair, any type of wood deck ultimately needs replacement.

Moreover, due to the increasing cost of decking lumber, alternate materials were needed.

Metallic materials, such as steel, aluminum and other alloys may be used, but they suffer from other disadvantages.

Although strong and durable, they too suffer from extreme environmental conditions, such as rust, pitting, corrosion, etc., and in proximity to saltwater conditions, these effects are greatly accelerated.

Furthermore, metallic systems are heavy, expensive, and require extensive expertise to manufacture, assemble, weld, etc.

However, these materials require significant reinforcement or complex engineered design to provide the strength needed to sustain regular operating and use conditions.

Synthetic and composite decking materials that meet the federal requirements are not currently available or disclosed in the prior art, and presently are only allowed under an addendum / waiver as they do not meet the federal requirement.

The prior art has other disadvantages in commercial applications as well, all of which are overcome by decking of the present disclosure.

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