Configurable motor mats

Abstract

A configurable motor-task mat system includes a flexible mat having an upper surface and a lower surface and a plurality of adhesive-free decals each including a front surface and a rear surface, respectively. The flexible mat includes an upper surface providing a substantially uniform and highly smooth surface. Each of the decal rear surfaces include a smooth glossy surface. Each of the plurality of adhesive-free decals include information provided in a graphic, respectively, on the front surface, the information conveying a cue concerning a respective motor task to be performed by a user with the rear surface of the respective adhesive-free decal placed in contact with the upper surface of the flexible mat and the plurality of adhesive-free decals affixed to the flexible mat in a first configuration. The plurality of adhesive-free decals are configured to remain in a fixed location during use in the first configuration as a result of an adhesion established by a distance dependent molecular adhesion force between the rear surface of the decal and the upper surface of the flexible mat.

Description

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION1. Field of Invention[0001]This invention relates generally to motor mats. More specifically, at least one embodiment relates to a configurable motor mat system.2. Discussion of Related Art[0002]Structured body movement such as yoga provides widely recognized benefits for an individual's state of mind. Similarly, occupational therapists recognize that the right amount and the right types of movement can benefit children by improving their focus. For example, a structured set of movements can help calm children down, help them become more alert, more organized and / or more regulated in their behavior. All of the preceding can improve the learning process and increase learning.[0003]Some occupational therapists employ motor tasks with children to achieve one or more of the preceding positive outcomes. A motor mat provides a path or route that prompts the user to complete different types of motor tasks. That is, the motor mat provides a motor pathway or path. For ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This patent is about a system that works with users to teach them new motor tasks while also providing educational material. The system is designed to be easily reconfigurable, so different users can have different educational activities that they can work on while using the system. This allows for more flexibility and customization for users, and makes it easier to use the system for different educational purposes.

Problems solved by technology

However, these motor paths create a permanent and unchanging set of visual cues that fail to provide students with any variety over time.

That is, these motor paths cannot accommodate children at different stages of development.

Consequently, they do not even assist the same child as the child's skills progress over time.

In addition, any time an adhesive backed sticker or decal is used, the motor sequence can only be modified by removing the sticker or decal by scraping it from the surface.

However, these attachment systems are unhygienic and not suitable for use on floors or other surfaces where dirt and contaminants can collect.

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