Shock-absorbing element for floorings and respective shock-absorbing layer

Abstract

A shock-absorbing element (1) for floorings (101) is described comprising a frame (2) provided with a plurality of through openings (6) and a plurality of support bodies (5) arranged at a respective through opening (6) and defining a support plane (P) of the shock-absorbing element (1). Each support body (5) comprises a plurality of elastically deformable arms (8) extending from a frame portion (7) peripherally delimiting a respective through opening (6), and connected to each other at respective distal end portions (8b) by means of a junction portion (9). The elastically deformable arms (8) comprise a respective convex support portion (8c) defining the support plane (P) of the shock-absorbing element (1), and the junction portion (9) between the arms (8) is positioned between the frame (2) and the support plane (P) at a predetermined distance therefrom.

Description

[0001] SHOCK-ABSORBING ELEMENT FOR FLOORINGS AND RESPECTIVE SHOCK-ABSORBING LAYER

[0002] DESCRIPTION

[0003] Field of the invention

[0004] The present invention relates to a shock-absorbing element for floorings, in particular for floorings for sports use, such as synthetic turf playing fields, athletics tracks, sports facility floors, and the like.

[0005] The present invention also relates to a shock- absorbing layer realized with a plurality of such elements and to a flooring comprising the shock- absorbing layer.

[0006] The shock-absorbing element and the shock-absorbing layer of the invention find a preferred, though not exclusive, use in the construction of turf structures for sports fields.

[0007] Related art

[0008] It is known to construct floorings, e.g. turf structures of synthetic grass for sports fields, by preparing a substrate, e.g. rammed earth or concrete, on which a walkable surface, such as a synthetic turf, or a walkable surface consisting of an assembly of interconnected tiles or panels, is laid.

[0009] In order to impart to these floorings adequate response properties to mechanical stresses, e.g. related to the elastic and rebound properties of a ball, or an appropriate capacity to absorb shocks or stresses during use, it has been proposed in the art to interpose between the compact substrate and the walkable surface a shock-absorbing layer having the function of improving the response to mechanical stresses of the flooring as a whole.

[0010] Thus, for example, international patent application WO 2011 / 036600 A2 discloses a flooring comprising a substrate, e.g. made of rammed earth, a mat, e.g. made of artificial grass, placed over the substrate, and an intermediate elastic support structure arranged between the substrate and the mat. The support structure extends over the substrate along a deformation direction in an undulating manner, creating projecting portions spaced from the substrate to provide a desired yielding.

[0011] International Patent Application WO 2014 / 169328 Al discloses an interlocking tile assembly for floorings including a first repetitive set of first tiles and a second repetitive set of second tiles interlocked to each other. With the tile assembly, a shock-absorbing plate can be made to form a ground cover suitable for example for playgrounds. The shock-absorbing plate comprises an upper side to bear a load and a plurality of shock- absorbing modules extending from a lower side of the plate and integrally formed therewith.

[0012] International Patent Application WO 2019 / 145985 Al discloses an element of a shockabsorbing layer for floorings comprising a frame provided with through openings, the frame having a first face, a plurality of support elements defining a second face opposite the first face. The shock-absorbing layer element is elastically deformable and comprises, for each support element, a plurality of rods connecting each support element to the frame.

[0013] Summary of the invention

[0014] In connection with the construction of floorings for sports use making use of the aforementioned shock-absorbing layers comprising cantilevered portions configured as described in the aforementioned documents of the prior art, the Applicant noted that the performance of these shock-absorbing layers should be improved, for example, in terms of their ability to gradually dampen the impact forces resulting from a user's footing on the ground, for example when running, or in case the user falls on the ground or in the event of a ball bouncing off the flooring.

[0015] In the light of what has been observed in the prior art, the Applicant's aim is therefore that of providing a shock-absorbing element for floorings that is capable of providing an adequate mechanical response to the stresses, for example in terms of an appropriate energy absorption of the energy of the impacts which these floorings are subjected to during use.

[0016] The Applicant perceived that this aim could be achieved by intervening on the geometric configuration of the support elements of the shock-absorbing element on the substrate.

[0017] The present invention therefore relates, in a first aspect thereof, to a shock-absorbing element for floorings according to the appended claims.

[0018] In embodiments, the shock-absorbing element for floorings of the invention comprises:

[0019] - a frame defining a first face of said shock-absorbing element, said frame comprising a plurality of through openings; and

[0020] - a plurality of support bodies arranged at a respective through opening and defining a support plane of said shock- absorbing element opposite said first face.

[0021] Preferably, the aforementioned support bodies comprise a plurality of elastically deformable arms extended in a cantilevered fashion from a frame portion peripherally delimiting said through opening. Preferably, the aforementioned elastically deformable arms comprise a first proximal end portion connected to the frame portion peripherally delimiting the through opening and a second distal end portion connected to the distal end portions of the other arm(s) at a junction portion.

[0022] Preferably, said elastically deformable arms comprise a respective convex support portion formed close to said second distal end portion and defining said support plane of the shock-absorbing element.

[0023] Preferably, said junction portion of the distal end portions of the elastically deformable arms is positioned between the frame and the support plane at a predetermined distance from said support plane of the shock- absorbing element.

[0024] The present invention, in a second aspect thereof, relates to a shock- absorbing layer for floorings comprising a plurality of shock-absorbing elements as described herein, arranged side-by-side to each other.

[0025] The present invention, in a third aspect thereof, further relates to a flooring comprising:

[0026] - a substrate;

[0027] - a surface layer arranged above said substrate; and

[0028] - a shock- absorbing layer for floorings as described herein arranged between the substrate and the surface layer.

[0029] Preferably, said first face of each shock-absorbing element faces said surface layer.

[0030] The Applicant has verified that thanks to the aforementioned geometric configuration of the elastically deformable arms of the support bodies, in particular thanks to the presence of a convex support portion close to the second portion of the distal end of the arms, it is advantageously possible to achieve an effective mechanical response to the stresses which the shock- absorbing element is subjected to during use.

[0031] More specifically, the Applicant has verified that thanks to the aforementioned geometric configuration of the elastically deformable arms of the support bodies, it is advantageously possible to achieve an effective stress absorption by means of a progressive stiffening effect of the support bodies when the shock- absorbing element is subjected to a stress, for example as a consequence of a fall impact.

[0032] Thus, the shock-absorbing element is advantageously capable to effectively “accompany” the absorption of the impacts by providing an elastic response which varies along with the compression degree of the support bodies.

[0033] Without wishing to be bound herein to any particular interpretative theory, the Applicant deems that the geometric configuration of the arms, in combination with their elastic deformability, allows to progressively increase the stiffness of the support bodies as the degree of compression of the support bodies varies.

[0034] In particular, the Applicant deems that this progressive stiffness increase of the support bodies may be related to a reduction of the distance between the contact areas with the substrate of the convex support portions of the elastically deformable arms and the frame portion which peripherally delimits the through opening at which the support bodies are arranged.

[0035] In the Applicant’s view, in fact, this distance can reasonably be considered as the action arm of the component of the impact forces acting along a direction orthogonal to the lying plane of the shock- absorbing element and acting in bending the elastically deformable arms of the support bodies.

[0036] The Applicant has also verified that thanks to the aforementioned geometric configuration of the elastically deformable arms of the support bodies, in particular thanks to the presence of a junction portion of the distal end portions of the arms positioned between the frame and the support plane at a predetermined distance from the support plane of the shock-absorbing element, it is advantageously possible to achieve a reduced sinking of the shock- absorbing element into the substrate placed thereunder, in all those applications wherein the substrate is of a yielding type, for example sand or suitably compacted ground.

[0037] This advantageous feature of the shock-absorbing element is particularly appreciated in case the flooring creates a turf structure for sports fields, wherein the substrate often consists of a displaceable material, for example of sandy type.

[0038] Without wishing to be bound to any particular interpretative theory, the Applicant deems that the geometric configuration of the arms in combination with their elastic deformability is capable, in use, of defining - below the shock- absorbing element and between the support convex portions of the arms - a concave zone capable to house the material constituting the substrate (such as sand), both in the rest configuration of the shock-absorbing element and in its compressed configuration as a consequence of impacts.

[0039] In addition to this, the Applicant observed that the volume of the aforementioned concave zone progressively increases along with the compression degree of the support bodies and, therefore, of the shock- absorbing element, so as to be capable to house a greater amount of possibly displaced material of the substrate as the stress which the shockabsorbing element is subjected to increases.

[0040] In this way, it is advantageously possible to have an adequate mechanical response to the stresses while limiting as much as possible undesired sinking phenomena of the shockabsorbing element into the substrate, even in all those cases where, such as for example in the construction of turf structures for sports fields, the substrate consists of an easily displaceable material, for example of sandy type.

[0041] The Applicant also observed that this advantageous feature of a limited sinking of the support bodies and, therefore, of the shock- absorbing element, is maintained substantially unchanged over time, guaranteeing substantially constant performance of the flooring, for example in the case of a turf structure for sports fields.

[0042] In case the flooring is a turf structure for sports fields, the Applicant has also verified that the shock- absorbing element and shock-absorbing layer according to the invention allow to obtain water drainage characteristics that are not only fully satisfactory, but even far superior to the requirements of the relevant standards.

[0043] Within the framework of the present description and in the subsequent claims, all the numerical entities indicating quantities, parameters, percentages, and so on are to be considered preceded in every circumstance by the term “about” unless indicated otherwise. Furthermore, all the ranges of numerical entities include the maximum and minimum numerical values, all the possible combinations of maximum and minimum numerical values and all the possible intermediate ranges, in addition to those specifically indicated below.

[0044] Within the framework of the present description and in the subsequent claims, the terms "vertical", "vertically", "upper", "lower" with reference to the shock- absorbing element or parts thereof are intended to indicate directions / positions referring to the lying plane, in use, of the shock-absorbing element.

[0045] Within the framework of the present description and in the subsequent claims, the terms "longitudinal" and "transversal" with reference to the shock- absorbing element or parts thereof are intended to indicate a first, e.g. prevailing, extension direction of the shockabsorbing element and, respectively, a direction orthogonal to said first extension direction of the shock-absorbing element.

[0046] In at least one of the aforementioned aspects, the present description can have at least one of the preferred characteristics described below considered singularly or in combination. Preferably, the elastically deformable arms of the support bodies are extended in a cantilever fashion from said frame externally to said through opening.

[0047] In this way, it is advantageously possible to achieve the desired elastic deformability characteristics of the arms, allowing to achieve an adequate mechanical response of the shock-absorbing element to the stresses which the element is subjected to during use.

[0048] Preferably, the elastically deformable arms of the support bodies have a substantially fully elastic deformation behaviour, i.e. they are substantially undeformed when the stresses, which the arms are subjected to, cease.

[0049] Preferably, the elastically deformable arms of the support bodies are equidistant from each other along a perimetral extension of said through opening.

[0050] In this way, it is advantageously possible to achieve an adequately balanced distribution between the elastically deformable arms of the stresses which the shock-absorbing element is subjected to during use.

[0051] Preferably, the shock-absorbing element comprises a plurality of through openings having, in a plan view, a circular or at least partially arched shape.

[0052] In this way, it is possible to achieve advantageous characteristics of construction simplicity.

[0053] Preferably, each support body comprises from two to six elastically deformable arms.

[0054] Preferably, in case the through opening has, in a plan view, a circular or at least partly arched shape, the elastically deformable arms are angularly offset from each other, preferably by a same angle.

[0055] In a first preferred embodiment, the shock- absorbing element comprises a plurality of support bodies comprising two elastically deformable arms angularly offset from each other by an angle of about 180°.

[0056] Within the framework of this preferred embodiment, the support bodies are preferably arranged in such a way that the pairs of elastically deformable arms in a support body are arranged orthogonally to the pairs of arms of at least one adjacent support body.

[0057] Preferably, the support bodies are arranged to form a Cartesian-type grid comprising support bodies having elastically deformable arms orthogonally arranged in pairs with respect to the elastically deformable arms of one or more adjacent support bodies. In this way, it is advantageously possible to have a substantially isotropic and uniform behaviour of the shock-absorbing element irrespective of the direction of action of the stresses which the element is subjected to, thereby ensuring an adequate elastic response under all conditions of use of the flooring.

[0058] In a further preferred embodiment, the shock-absorbing element comprises a plurality of support bodies comprising three elastically deformable arms angularly offset from each other by an angle of about 90° or about 120°.

[0059] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the shock-absorbing element comprises a plurality of support bodies comprising four elastically deformable arms angularly offset from each other by an angle of about 90°.

[0060] In a further preferred embodiment, the shock-absorbing element comprises a plurality of support bodies comprising five elastically deformable arms angularly offset from each other by an angle of about 72°.

[0061] In a further preferred embodiment, the shock-absorbing element comprises a plurality of support bodies comprising six elastically deformable arms angularly offset from each other by an angle of about 60°.

[0062] According to each of these configurations of the support bodies, it is advantageously possible to obtain a mechanical response of the shock-absorbing element to the stresses that is substantially isotropic and adequately distributed between the elastically deformable arms regardless of the direction of action of the stress imparted to the shockabsorbing element.

[0063] Preferably, the aforementioned junction portion is substantially curvilinear, so as to adequately connect the distal end portions of the elastically deformable arms.

[0064] Preferably, the aforementioned junction portion defines a concave zone between the aforementioned elastically deformable arms facing the support plane of the shockabsorbing element.

[0065] Advantageously, this concave zone allows to optimise the housing effect of the material constituting the substrate on which the shock-absorbing element rests, in the case where the substrate consists of a displaceable material such as sand, both in the rest configuration of the shock- absorbing element and in its compressed configuration as a consequence of impacts.

[0066] Preferably, the concave zone defined by the aforementioned junction portion has - in a middle plane of two of the aforementioned elastically deformable arms - a substantially curvilinear profile.

[0067] Preferably, the concave zone defined by the aforementioned junction portion has - in a middle plane of two of the aforementioned elastically deformable arms - a profile having a curvature radius between 1.0 mm and 4.0 mm, preferably between 1.5 mm and 2.5 mm.

[0068] Within the framework of the present description and of the subsequent claims, the middle plane of two elastically deformable arms is understood to be the longitudinal middle plane of two arms which may be either opposite with respect to the opening at which the support bodies are arranged, or angularly offset from each other by an angle other than 180°, e.g. 120°, 90°, 72° or 60°.

[0069] In this latter case, the longitudinal middle plane of each arm will form with the longitudinal middle plane of another arm the same angle formed between the arms, e.g., as explained above, an angle of approximately 180°, 120°, 90°, 72° or 60°.

[0070] Within the framework of the present description and of the subsequent claims, "profile" of the concave zone means the line of projection on the middle plane of two of the aforementioned elastically deformable arms of the face of the aforementioned junction portion facing the support plane of the shock-absorbing element.

[0071] In this way, it is advantageously possible to optimise the effect of housing the material constituting the substrate on which the shock-absorbing element rests, in the case where the substrate consists of a displaceable material such as sand, both in the rest configuration of the shock-absorbing element and in the compressed configuration of the shockabsorbing element as a consequence of the impacts which the element is subjected to during use.

[0072] Preferably, in a rest configuration of the shock- absorbing element, the aforementioned junction portion of the distal end portions of the elastically deformable arms is positioned between the frame and the support plane at a distance from said support plane of the shock-absorbing element between 0.5 mm and 4.0 mm, more preferably between 1.0 mm and 3.0 mm.

[0073] In this way, it is advantageously possible to define - below the shock- absorbing element and between the convex support portions of the arms - a concave zone having an adequate volume and capable of housing the material constituting the substrate (e.g. sand) both in the rest configuration of the shock- absorbing element and, even more so, in its compressed configuration as a consequence of the impacts. In the compressed configuration of the shock-absorbing element, in fact, the distance between the aforementioned junction portion of the distal end portions of the elastically deformable arms and the support plane increases as a result of the bending and deformation of the arms themselves, allowing more substrate to be housed in the aforementioned concave zone.

[0074] Preferably, the convex support portion of the elastically deformable arms has a curvature radius between 3.5 mm and 5.0 mm, preferably between 4.0 mm and 4.4 mm.

[0075] In this way, it is advantageously possible to have an optimal stiffness increase of the shock-absorbing element as its degree of stress increases, so as to best absorb the energy of the impacts which the support bodies, and thus the shock- absorbing element, are subjected to during use.

[0076] Preferably, the elastically deformable arms of the support bodies comprise a respective substantially curvilinear portion formed close to the aforementioned first proximal end portion of the arms.

[0077] In this way, it is advantageously possible to have adequate deformability characteristics along a direction orthogonal to the lying plane of the shock-absorbing element (i.e. orthogonal to the first face of the shock-absorbing element), so as to optimally absorb the energy of the impacts which the shock- absorbing element is subjected to during use.

[0078] Preferably, the aforementioned substantially curvilinear portion of the elastically deformable arms has a curvature radius between 20 mm and 28 mm, preferably between 22 mm and 26 mm.

[0079] In this way, it is advantageously possible to optimise the aforementioned deformability and energy absorption characteristics of the shocks of the support bodies and, therefore, of the shock-absorbing element, along a direction orthogonal to its lying plane.

[0080] Preferably, the elastically deformable arms of the support bodies form an angle of from 60° to 90°, preferably of from 70° to 80°, with respect to a lower face of the frame.

[0081] Within the framework of the present description and in the subsequent claims, the angle formed by the elastically deformable arms with respect to the lower face of the frame refers to the angle formed by a plane tangent to the inner side (i.e., the side facing the opening at which the support bodies are arranged) of the arms and the plane defined by the lower face of the frame.

[0082] In this way, it is advantageously possible to optimise the aforementioned deformability characteristics of the shock-absorbing element along a direction orthogonal to its lying plane.

[0083] Preferably, the elastically deformable arms of the support bodies have a circular or polygonal transversal cross-section, more preferably square or rectangular, possibly with one or more rounded edges, even more preferably square or rectangular with rounded edges on the outer, or extrados, side of the aforementioned elastically deformable arms.

[0084] Within the framework of the present description and in the subsequent claims, the term outer or extrados side of the elastically deformable arms refers to the side of the arms facing outwards from the support bodies, i.e. the side facing, in use, the substrate of a flooring at the aforementioned convex portion of the elastically deformable arms.

[0085] In this way, it is advantageously possible to achieve both optimum mouldability characteristics of the elastically deformable arms, and adequate elastic deformability and structural rigidity characteristics of the arms.

[0086] In a preferred embodiment, the surface layer of the flooring according to the invention comprises a synthetic turf and an infill material in granular form.

[0087] In this way, it is advantageously possible to create a turf structure for sports fields having optimal characteristics of dynamic response to the stresses and optimal characteristics of water drainage.

[0088] Additional features and advantages of the present invention will become better apparent from the following detailed description of some preferred embodiments thereof, made with reference to the appended drawings and provided by way of indicative and nonlimiting example.

[0089] Brief description of the figures

[0090] In the drawings:

[0091] - FIG. 1 shows a perspective view from above of a shock- absorbing element for floorings according to a preferred embodiment of the invention;

[0092] - Fig. 2 shows a perspective view from below of the shock- absorbing element for floorings of Fig. 1;

[0093] - Fig. 3 shows a plan view from above of the shock- absorbing element for floorings of Fig. 1; - Fig. 4 shows a plan view from below of the shock- absorbing element for floorings of Fig. 1;

[0094] - Fig. 5 shows a side view of the shock-absorbing element for floorings of Fig. 1;

[0095] - Fig. 6 shows a side view in an enlarged scale of a portion of the shock-absorbing element for floorings of Fig. 1, wherein a support body of the shock- absorbing element is visible;

[0096] - Fig. 7 shows a cross-sectional view of the panel portion of Fig. 6 made according to line VII- VII of Fig. 6;

[0097] - Fig. 7A shows a cross-sectional view made according to line VIII- VIII of Fig. 7, of an elastically deformable arm of the support body of Fig. 6;

[0098] - Figs. 8-10 show as many schematic side views of a support body of the shock-absorbing element in different states of compression thereof;

[0099] - Fig. 11 shows a schematic side view, not to scale, of a turf structure for sports fields comprising a shock- absorbing layer comprising a plurality of shock- absorbing elements for floorings of Fig. 1.

[0100] Detailed description of currentlv preferred embodiments of the invention

[0101] In the appended figures, a shock-absorbing element for floorings according to a preferred embodiment of the invention is generally indicated by reference number 1.

[0102] A preferred embodiment of a flooring made using the shock- absorbing element 1 is, for example, illustrated in Figure 11.

[0103] This flooring, collectively indicated as 101 in Figure 11, comprises a substrate 102, preferably of a compact type, such as suitably compacted ground or cement, and a surface layer 103 placed on top of the compact substrate 102.

[0104] In this preferred embodiment, the flooring 101 also comprises a synthetic turf 104, thus forming a turf structure for sports fields.

[0105] The flooring 101 comprises a shock- absorbing layer 105 comprising a plurality of shockabsorbing elements 1 according to the present invention arranged side-by-side to each other.

[0106] In this preferred embodiment, the flooring 101 in the form of a turf structure may further comprise a support layer 106, e.g. of geotextile material, laid on top of the shockabsorbing layer 105. Although the support layer 106 is represented as a layer with a continuous surface, it may have a lattice or mesh structure provided with openings connecting the substrate 102 with the upper layers of the flooring 101.

[0107] The flooring 101 in the form of a turf structure further comprises a plurality of synthetic filaments 107 attached to the support layer 106 so as to extend upwards, distributed along the surface of the support layer 106 with appropriate spacing, so as to simulate a natural turf.

[0108] In alternative preferred embodiments and as known in the art, the flooring 101 in the form of a turf structure may comprise a further layer of geotextile material, not illustrated, configured for horizontally draining water and interposed between the shock-absorbing layer 105 and the support layer 106 or between the substrate 102 and the shock-absorbing layer 105.

[0109] An infill layer 108 comprising a suitable infill material M is arranged on top of the support layer 106.

[0110] The infill layer 108 is conveniently designed to impart to the finished turf the desired mechanical characteristics, for example related to the elastic and bouncing and rolling properties of a game ball, to the ability to absorb shocks or traction / torsion stresses, or to the penetration resistance vs. external bodies.

[0111] To this end, the infill material M can be selected from granulates made of plastics or elastomers, such as rubber granules obtained by shredding end-of-life tyres (which can also be covered with a protective layer such as, but not limited to, polyurethane resin) or granules obtained from virgin or recycled thermoplastic elastomeric materials.

[0112] The infill material M may also be selected from natural materials such as granulates deriving from the grinding of plant materials.

[0113] In preferred embodiments, the plant material may be, for example, a plant material derived from the processing of pine cones and / or pine nut shells, coconut shells, coconut fibre, cork, olive kernels, walnut shells, hazelnut shells, cereal husks, rice husks, com husks, arboreal material chips, wood chips, sawdust, or mixtures thereof.

[0114] In embodiments, the infill material M may also consist of a mixture of granulates made of plastics and granulates made of natural materials.

[0115] The infill material M is conveniently distributed between the synthetic filaments 107 to give the turf structure 101 the desired performance, stability, and durability characteristics and also help support the filaments 107 by preventing them from collapsing.

[0116] In further preferred embodiments, not illustrated, it is possible to provide a second infill layer consisting of inert materials, e.g. silica sand, to create a stabilising infill.

[0117] The provision of the second infill layer in addition to the first infill layer 108 contributes to improving the drainage capacity of the turf system, reducing the occurrence of waterlogging.

[0118] Preferably, the shock- absorbing element 1 is substantially configured as a substantially parallelepipedic panel with a rectangular shape in plan view.

[0119] Preferably, the shock-absorbing element 1 has, in a plan view, a length “L” between 700 mm and 800 mm, more preferably between 750 mm and 790 mm, and a width “W” between 500 mm and 600 mm, more preferably between 550 mm and 590 mm,

[0120] Preferably, the shock- absorbing element 1 has, in a side view, an overall height “H” between 10 mm and 25 mm, more preferably between 14 mm and 22 mm.

[0121] The shock-absorbing element 1 comprises a frame 2 having a first face 2a defining a corresponding first face la of the element and a second face 2b opposite the previous one.

[0122] In the configuration of use of the shock-absorbing element 1, the first face 2a of the frame 2 and thus the first face la of shock-absorbing element 1 are as many upper faces, while the second face 2b is a lower face of the frame 2.

[0123] In the preferred embodiment illustrated in Figure 11, the first face la of the shockabsorbing element 1 is facing, in use, upwards, i.e. towards the aforementioned surface layer 103 of the flooring 101 comprising the shock-absorbing element 1 and which may be, as further illustrated above, a turf system for sports fields.

[0124] Conversely, the second face 2b of the frame 2 is facing, in use, downwards, i.e. towards the aforementioned substrate 102.

[0125] Preferably, the frame 2 has, in a side view, an overall height “h” between 1.5 and 4.5 mm, more preferably between 2.0 and 3.0 mm.

[0126] Preferably, the shock-absorbing element 1 is elastically deformable.

[0127] Preferably, the shock-absorbing element 1 is integrally made, for example and preferably of a suitable plastic material, e.g. polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE) or polyamide (PA). Preferably, the shock-absorbing element 1 may be manufactured by moulding, e.g. by injection moulding, of a plastic material.

[0128] Preferably, each shock-absorbing element 1 of the shock- absorbing layer 105 is modular so as to enable a connection to further shock- absorbing elements 1, as will be further illustrated below.

[0129] Preferably, the frame 2 and the first face la of the shock- absorbing element 1 have a substantially planar extension so as to adapt to the planar configuration of a substrate and of a surface layer of the floorings comprising the shock- absorbing element 1, for example the substrate 102 and the synthetic turf 104 illustrated above.

[0130] Preferably, the shock-absorbing element 1 comprises a plurality of support bodies 5 arranged at a respective through opening 6.

[0131] Preferably, the support bodies 5 extend from the frame 2 at a side opposite to the first face la of the shock-absorbing element 1.

[0132] Preferably, the support bodies 5 define a support plane P of the shock-absorbing element 1 opposite its first face la.

[0133] Preferably, the support bodies 5 are arranged side-by-side in a first plurality of parallel rows extending along a longitudinal direction of the shock- absorbing element 1.

[0134] Preferably, the support bodies 5 are arranged side-by-side in a second plurality of parallel rows extending along a transversal direction of the shock- absorbing element 1.

[0135] In this preferred embodiment, therefore, the support bodies 5 are arranged to form a Cartesian-type grid comprising parallel rows extending longitudinally and perpendicular to parallel rows extending transversally.

[0136] Preferably, the frame 2 has a lattice structure that imparts to the shock- absorbing element 1 advantageous lightweight characteristics and effective draining characteristics, the latter being required by the approval regulations for turf structures for sports fields.

[0137] Advantageously, the lattice structure of the frame 2 also imparts to the shock- absorbing element 1 adequate strength and elasticity characteristics.

[0138] Preferably, the frame 2 of the shock-absorbing element 1 comprises a perimetral edge 3.

[0139] Preferably, the perimetral edge 3 comprises at least a pair of seats 4, preferably substantially U-shaped, formed at opposite parts of the frame 2 and configured to accommodate suitable junction elements, not shown, between shock- absorbing elements 1 arranged side-by-side and adapted to allow a relative rotation therebetween.

[0140] This allows the shock- absorbing elements 1 to be stacked to form a stacked assembly that facilitates the operations of transporting and laying of the shock- absorbing elements 1 to form the shock- absorbing layer 105 of the flooring 101 described above.

[0141] In the preferred embodiment illustrated in the figures, the perimetral edge 3 comprises a pair of seats 4 formed at longitudinally opposite parts of the frame 2.

[0142] In a preferred embodiment, the junction elements may be substantially ring-shaped so as to be free to slide in the seats 4 and to allow a stacking the shock- absorbing elements 1 in a succession of shock-absorbing elements 1 mutually offset along a longitudinal or a transversal direction.

[0143] Preferably, the openings 6 have a circular shape, in a plan view, and are peripherally delimited by a respective frame 7 that is substantially circular.

[0144] Preferably, the openings 6 have an inner diameter between 15 mm and 50 mm, more preferably between 20 mm and 30 mm.

[0145] Preferably, and as better illustrated in Figures 3 and 4, the pitch "Z" of the parallel rows of support bodies 5 both along a longitudinal and a transversal direction, i.e., the distance between a middle plane of longitudinally extending parallel rows of support bodies 5 and a middle plane of transversally extending parallel rows of support bodies 5, is substantially equal to the sum of the inner diameter of the openings 6 and twice the width of the frames 7 measured along the plane of the frame 2.

[0146] Preferably, the frames 7 have a width, measured along the plane of the frame 2, between 1.5 mm and 6.0 mm, more preferably between 2.0 mm and 4.0 mm.

[0147] In preferred embodiments, the pitch “Z” of the parallel rows of support bodies 5 may vary between 15 mm and 50 mm, more preferably between 25 mm and 35 mm.

[0148] In this way, it is advantageously possible to define between the parallel and orthogonal rows of the support bodies 5 of a shock-absorbing element 1, i.e. between groups of four support bodies 5 arranged at the vertices of a square, a housing seat 13, preferably with a substantially mating coupling, of the support bodies 5 of a shock-absorbing element 1 superimposed with a longitudinal or transversal offset substantially equal to Z / 2.

[0149] In this way, it is advantageously possible to stack adjacent shock- absorbing elements 1 with a partial interpenetration between shock- absorbing elements 1 stacked on each other in an offset manner, thereby reducing the volume of the stacked group of shock-absorbing elements 1 and advantageously simplifying their transport and laying operations.

[0150] Preferably, the frames 7 that peripherally delimit the openings 6 are integrally connected, preferably moulded, with each other to form the lattice structure of the frame 2.

[0151] In this preferred embodiment, therefore, the frames 7 that peripherally delimit the openings 6 constitute as many portions of the frame 2 that peripherally delimit the through opening 6.

[0152] In this way, each frame 7 is connected to the frame 7 of one or more adjacent openings 6 within the perimetral edge 3 of the frame 2.

[0153] In a preferred embodiment, and in order to allow for a proper use of suitable application tools of the aforementioned junction elements between shock-absorbing elements 1 arranged side-by-side, junction elements for example and preferably substantially ringshaped, the shock- absorbing element 1 may be provided with one or more support bodies

[0154] 5 at openings 6 adjacent to the perimetral edge 3 of the frame 2.

[0155] Preferably, the shock-absorbing element 1 is devoid of the support body 5 at an opening

[0156] 6 formed at one or more housing seats 4 of the junction elements between adjacent shockabsorbing elements 1.

[0157] In the preferred embodiment illustrated, the shock-absorbing element 1 may comprise a plurality of openings 6, adjacent to one of the sides, e.g. a transversal side, of the perimetral edge 3 of the frame 2, having, in a plan view, at least a partially arched shape.

[0158] This arched shape may be, for example, a semi-circumference or an arc of a circumference having an angle at the centre greater than 180°, e.g. between 180° and 220°.

[0159] In this way, it is advantageously possible to define - depending upon the maximum design length of the shock- absorbing element 1 - suitable housing seats of the support bodies 5 of an overlapped shock- absorbing element 1 while forming stacked groups of shockabsorbing elements 1.

[0160] This feature allows, in particular, to achieve the partial interpenetration described above between stacked shock-absorbing elements 1 with the support bodies 5 of stacked shockabsorbing elements 1 facing each other.

[0161] Preferably, the shock-absorbing element 1 comprises a plurality of pegs 12 extending from the first face 2a of the frame 2, i.e. from the first face la of the shock- absorbing element 1 (the upper ones during use).

[0162] Advantageously, the pegs 12 form just as many friction elements that limit possible slipping effects of the synthetic turf 104 laid on the shock- absorbing layer 105.

[0163] Preferably, the pegs 12 extend from the first face 2a of the frame 2 at contact areas between the frames 7 of adjacent openings 6.

[0164] For the purposes of the invention, the pegs 12 are shaped and sized to exert the desired frictional effect towards a layer positioned on the shock-absorbing layer 105, for example towards the support layer 106 of the artificial turf 104.

[0165] Thus, for example, the pegs 12 can be substantially cylindrical or be substantially shaped like a truncated cone.

[0166] Preferably, the pegs 12 have a height “hp”, measured from the face la of the shockabsorbing element 1 between 1.0 mm and 2.0 mm.

[0167] Preferably, the pegs 12 are substantially shaped like a truncated cone and have a circular base with a diameter of between 1.5 mm and 3.5 mm.

[0168] Preferably, the pegs 12 are substantially shaped like a truncated cone and have a circular top having a diameter of between 1.0 mm and 2.0 mm.

[0169] Preferably, each support body 5 comprises a plurality of elastically deformable arms 8 extending in a cantilevered fashion from a portion of the frame 2 peripherally delimiting the through openings 6, which frame portion in this case consists of the frames 7.

[0170] Preferably, the elastically deformable arms 8 are substantially rod-shaped.

[0171] Preferably, the elastically deformable arms 8 are extending from the frame 2 externally to the peripheral edge of the through opening 6.

[0172] More preferably, the elastically deformable arms 8 are extending from the second face 2b of the frame 2, the lower face during use of the shock- absorbing element 1, more specifically from the lower face 7b of the frame 7 peripherally delimiting the opening 6.

[0173] Preferably and as better illustrated in Figures 6 and 7, the elastically deformable arms 8 form, with respect to the second face 2b of the frame 2, the lower face in use, an angle “a” between 60° and 90°, preferably between 70° and 80°.

[0174] Preferably, each arm 8 comprises a first proximal end portion 8a, connected to the frame 7 which peripherally delimits the opening 6 (i.e. to the portion of the frame 2 which peripherally delimits that opening), and a second distal end portion 8b connected to the distal end portions 8b of the other arms 8 at a junction portion 9.

[0175] Preferably, the arms 8 comprise a respective convex portion 8c for resting, when using the shock- absorbing element 1, the support bodies 5 on the substrate 102.

[0176] In the preferred embodiment shown, the arms 8 are substantially hook- or “J”-shaped.

[0177] Preferably and as better illustrated in Figures 6 and 7, the convex portion 8c of the arms 8 is formed close to the second distal end portion 8b and defines the support plane P of the shock- absorbing element 1 on the substrate 102.

[0178] Preferably and as explained above, the convex support portion 8c of the elastically deformable arms 8 has a curvature radius between 3.5 mm and 5.0 mm, more preferably between 4.0 mm and 4.4 mm.

[0179] As explained above, thanks to the geometric configuration of the elastically deformable arms 8 of the support bodies 5, it is advantageously possible to achieve an effective absorption of the stresses by means of a progressive stiffening effect of the support bodies 5 when the shock-absorbing element 1 is subjected to a stress, e.g. following a fall impact.

[0180] In this way, the shock- absorbing element 1 is advantageously capable to effectively “accompany” the absorption of impacts by providing an elastic response that varies along with the compression degree of the support bodies 5.

[0181] In particular, the Applicant deems that the geometric configuration of the arms 8 in combination with their elastic deformability allows to progressively increase the stiffness of the support bodies 5 as the compression degree of the support bodies 5 varies.

[0182] Without wishing to be bound herein to any particular interpretative theory, the Applicant deems in particular that, as schematically illustrated in Figures 8 to 10, this progressive stiffness increase of the support bodies 5 may be attributed to the reduction of the distance "b" between the contact areas A and B of the convex support portions 8c with the support plane P, in other words with the substrate 102, and the frame 7 that peripherally delimits the opening 6 along with an increase of the compression degree of the support bodies 5.

[0183] In the preferred embodiment illustrated and as shown in Figure 8, the distance “c” between the contact areas A and B of the convex support portions 8c with the support plane P in the rest configuration of the shock- absorbing element 1 is between 5 mm and 20 mm and, more preferably, between 8 mm and 18 mm.

[0184] In the preferred embodiment illustrated in Figure 8, the distance “b” between the contact areas A and B of the convex support portions 8c with the support surface P and the frame 7 in the rest configuration of the shock- absorbing element 1 is between 5 mm and 20 mm and, more preferably, between 6 mm and 16 mm.

[0185] By means of a finite element simulation carried out using the software Comsol Multiphysics® (Comsol AB, Stockholm, Sweden) on a support body 5 with four arms 8 as illustrated in the figures and dimensioned as described herein, it was found that, by applying a vertical pressure of 4 MPa, the distance “b” between the contact areas A and B of the convex support portions 8c with the support surface P and the frame 7 in the compression configuration of the shock-absorbing element 1 schematically illustrated in Figure 10, is reduced by a value between 3.0 mm and 6.0 mm depending on the value of the distance “b” between the contact areas A and B at rest.

[0186] The Applicant has observed that, as the stress which the shock-absorbing element 1 is subjected to increases, the contact areas A and B of the convex support portions 8c with the support plane P on the substrate 102 tend to move away from each other by approaching the frame 7 peripherally delimiting the opening 6 and thus reducing the action arm of the vertical component "FV" of the forces acting on the shock-absorbing element 1.

[0187] This reduction in the action arm consequently increases, preferably progressively, the stiffness of the support bodies 5 and thus of the shock- absorbing element 1 in response to the vertical stresses which the latter is subjected to during use.

[0188] Within the framework of the present description and in the subsequent claims, the terms "contact point", and "contact area" refer to the line or area of contact of the convex support portions 8c of the arms 8 with the support plane P, i.e., with the substrate 102.

[0189] As may be understood by a person skilled in the art, this contact area may be more or less ample depending on the deformability characteristics of the material constituting the arms 8, on the elasticity characteristics of the arms 8 and on the extent of the compression which the support bodies 5 are subjected to.

[0190] Preferably, the elastically deformable arms 8 comprise a respective substantially curvilinear portion 8d formed close to their proximal end portion 8a.

[0191] Preferably and as explained above, the substantially curvilinear portion 8d of the elastically deformable arms 8 has a curvature radius between 20 mm and 28 mm, more preferably between 22.0 mm and 26.0 mm.

[0192] Preferably, the elastically deformable arms 8 have a polygonal, preferably square or rectangular cross-section, possibly with one or more rounded edges.

[0193] More preferably, the elastically deformable arms 8 have a square or rectangular crosssection with rounded edges on the outer, or extrados, side, i.e. on the side facing outwards from the support bodies 5, e.g. towards the substrate 102 in the case of the convex support portion 8c of the arms 8.

[0194] In the preferred embodiment illustrated and as best visible in the section of Figure 7A, the elastically deformable arms 8 have a square or rectangular cross-section with rounded edges 8e, 8f on the outer side.

[0195] Preferably, the rounded edges 8e, 8f of the elastically deformable arms 8 have a curvature radius “Rs” between 0.5 mm and 1.5 mm.

[0196] Preferably and as better illustrated in Figure 7A, the elastically deformable arms 8 have, in a cross-section thereof, a width “1” between 2.0 mm and 4.0 mm, more preferably, between 2.5 mm and 3.5 mm.

[0197] Preferably, the elastically deformable arms 8 have in a cross-section thereof, a thickness “s” between 1.0 mm and 4.0 mm, more preferably between 1.5 mm and 3.5 mm.

[0198] Preferably, the elastically deformable arms 8 are equidistant from each other along a perimetral development of the through opening 6.

[0199] In the preferred embodiment illustrated, the shock-absorbing element 1 comprises support bodies 5 comprising four elastically deformable arms 8 angularly offset from each other.

[0200] Preferably, these four elastically deformable arms 8 are angularly offset from each other by an angle of approximately 90°.

[0201] In this way, it is advantageously possible to have a uniform elastic response of the support bodies 5, and thus of the shock-absorbing element 1, to the stresses which the element is subjected to during use.

[0202] In the preferred embodiment illustrated and to enable an offset stacking with adjacent shock-absorbing elements 1 at a pitch of Z / 2, the shock-absorbing element 1 comprises a number of support bodies 5 adjacent to the perimetral edge 3 of the frame 2 comprising three elastically deformable arms 8.

[0203] Preferably, these three elastically deformable arms 8 are also angularly offset from each other by an angle of approximately 90° so that the angular configuration of the arms 8 is similar to that of the other support bodies 5. In this way, a similar elastic response is advantageously obtained for the support bodies 5 comprising three elastically deformable arms 8 to that of the other support bodies 5 comprising four elastically deformable arms 8.

[0204] Preferably and as further illustrated in Figures 6 and 7, the junction portion 9 of the distal end portions 8b of the arms 8 is positioned between the frame 2 and the support plane P at a predetermined distance “d” from the support plane P of the shock-absorbing element 1.

[0205] Within the framework of the present description and in the subsequent claims, this distance "d" between the junction portion 9 and the support plane P is understood to be measured at the intrados of the junction portion 9, i.e., from the face of said portion facing the support plane P, as better illustrated in Figures 6 and 7.

[0206] Preferably, in the rest configuration of the shock- absorbing element 1 the distance “d” between the junction portion 9 and the support surface P is between 0.5 mm and 4.0 mm, more preferably between 1.0 mm and 3.0 mm.

[0207] Preferably, in a compression configuration of the shock- absorbing element 1, such as the configuration schematically illustrated in Figure 10, the distance “d” (better illustrated in figures 6 and 7) between the junction portion 9 and the support plane P may be between 3.0 mm and 8.0 mm, more preferably between 4.0 mm and 6.0 mm.

[0208] Preferably, the junction portion 9 is substantially curvilinear and defines between the elastically deformable arms 8 a concave zone 10 facing the support plane P of the shockabsorbing element 1.

[0209] In this way, a zone is defined within the support bodies 5 capable of housing the material constituting the substrate (e.g. sand) during use of the shock- absorbing element 1, both in the rest configuration of the shock- absorbing element 1 and in its compressed configuration following the impacts.

[0210] In addition to this, the Applicant has observed that the volume of said concave zone 10 progressively increases along with the compression degree of the support bodies 5 and, therefore, of the shock- absorbing element 1, so as to be capable to house a greater amount of possibly displaced material of the substrate 102 as the stress, which the shockabsorbing element 1 is subjected to, increases.

[0211] As the compression degree of the support bodies 5 increases and as explained above, in fact, the distance “d” between the junction portion 9 and the support plane P increases with a corresponding increase of the volume of the aforementioned concave zone 10. In this way, it is advantageously possible to have an adequate mechanical response to the stress which is substantially constant over time without having undesirable sinking phenomena of the shock-absorbing element 1 into the substrate 102, in particular in all those cases in which, such as for example in the construction of turf structures for sports fields, the substrate 102 consists of an easily displaceable material, for example of sandy type.

[0212] Preferably, in a middle plane of two of said elastically deformable arms 8, for example the middle plane of two arms 8 opposite to each other in the aforementioned four-armed configuration of the support bodies 5, which middle plane is illustrated by the section plane VII- VII of Figure 6, the concave zone 10 of said junction portion 9 has a substantially curvilinear profile as better shown in Figure 7.

[0213] Preferably, in the aforementioned middle plane, the concave zone 10 of the junction portion 9 has a profile with a curvature radius between 1.0 mm and 4.0 mm, more preferably between 1.5 mm and 2.5 mm.

[0214] In this way, it is advantageously possible to define between the arms 8 and within the support body 5 a concave zone 10 having an adequate volume to limit possible sinking phenomena of the shock-absorbing element 1 into the substrate 102.

[0215] In alternative preferred embodiments, not illustrated, the shock- absorbing element 1 may comprise support bodies 5 comprising two elastically deformable arms 8 angularly offset from each other by an angle of approximately 180°.

[0216] Preferably, the support bodies 5 are arranged in such a way that the pairs of elastically deformable arms 8 in a support body 5 are orthogonally arranged with respect to the pairs of arms 8 of at least one adjacent support body 5, more preferably of at least a pair of adjacent support bodies 5. For example, this geometric configuration of the support bodies 5 can be obtained by orienting the pairs of arms 8 of a row, e.g. longitudinal row, of support bodies 5 along the longitudinal direction and the pairs of arms 8 of an adjacent longitudinal row of support bodies 5 along the transversal direction, and so on.

[0217] Preferably, the support bodies 5 are arranged to form a Cartesian-type grid comprising support bodies 5 having elastically deformable arms 8 orthogonally arranged in pairs with respect to the elastically deformable arms 8 of one or more adjacent support bodies 5.

[0218] Advantageously, this arrangement of orthogonal pairs of arms 8 allows also in this case to achieve a substantially isotropic and uniform elastic response of the shock- absorbing element 1 to the stresses which the element is subjected to during use. In alternative preferred embodiments, not illustrated, the shock- absorbing element 1 may comprise support bodies 5 comprising three elastically deformable arms 8 angularly offset from each other by an angle of about 120° and / or five arms 8 angularly offset from each other by an angle of about 72° and / or six arms 8 angularly offset from each other by an angle of about 60°.

[0219] In this way, it is advantageously possible also in this case to achieve a substantially isotropic and uniform elastic response of the shock-absorbing element 1 to the stresses which the element is subjected to during use.

[0220] In all the preferred embodiments of the shock-absorbing element 1 illustrated above, the support bodies 5 are thus substantially shaped as a basket delimited by the arms 8.

[0221] Advantageously, this “basket-like” configuration of the support bodies 5 allows for a substantially isotropic and uniform behaviour of the shock- absorbing element 1 irrespective of the direction of action of the stresses which the element is subjected to, thereby ensuring an adequate elastic response in all use conditions of the flooring 101.

[0222] The “basket-like” configuration of the support bodies 5 also allows to achieve extremely satisfactory water drainage characteristics, far superior to the requirements of the regulations for the approval of turf structures for sports fields.

[0223] Tests carried out by the Applicant have shown that the shock- absorbing element 1 allows to achieve both a dynamic response to the stresses transmitted to the flooring 101 as well as water drainage characteristics that are far superior to the stringent requirements of the approval regulations for turf structures for sports fields.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Shock-absorbing element (1) for floorings (101) comprising:- a frame (2) defining a first face (la) of said shock-absorbing element (1), said frame (2) comprising a plurality of through openings (6);- a plurality of support bodies (5) arranged at a respective through opening (6) and defining a support plane (P) of said shock- absorbing element (1) opposite said first face; wherein said support bodies (5) comprise a plurality of elastically deformable arms (8) extended in a cantilevered fashion from a frame portion (7) peripherally delimiting said through opening (6); wherein said elastically deformable arms (8) comprise a first proximal end portion (8a) connected to the frame portion (7) peripherally delimiting the through opening (6), and a second distal end portion (8b) connected to the distal end portions (8b) of the other arm(s) (8) at a junction portion (9); wherein said elastically deformable arms (8) comprise a respective convex support portion (8c) formed close to said second distal end portion (8b) and defining said support plane (P) of the shock- absorbing element (1); and wherein said junction portion (9) of the distal end portions (8b) of the elastically deformable arms (8) is positioned between the frame (2) and the support plane (P) at a predetermined distance (d) from said support plane (P) of the shock-absorbing element (1).

2. Shock- absorbing element (1) according to claim 1, wherein said elastically deformable arms (8) are extended in a cantilevered fashion from said frame (2) externally to said through opening (6).

3. Shock- absorbing element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said elastically deformable arms (8) are equidistant from each other along a perimetral extension of said through opening (6).

4. Shock- absorbing element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising:- a plurality of through openings (6) having, in a plan view, a circular or at least partially arched shape, and- a plurality of support bodies (5) comprising from two to six elastically deformable arms (8), preferably angularly offset from each other.

5. Shock-absorbing element (1) according to claim 4, comprising a plurality of support bodies (5) comprising two elastically deformable arms (8) that are angularly offset from each other by an angle of about 180° and / or three elastically deformable arms (8) that are angularly offset from each other by an angle of about 90° or about 120° and / or four elastically deformable arms (8) that are angularly offset from each other by an angle of about 90° and / or five elastically deformable arms (8) that are angularly offset from each other by an angle of about 72° and / or six elastically deformable arms (8) that are angularly offset from each other by an angle of about 60°.

6. Shock- absorbing element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said junction portion (9) is substantially curvilinear and defines between said elastically deformable arms (8) a concave zone (10) facing said support plane (P) of the shockabsorbing element (1).

7. Shock-absorbing element (1) according to claim 6, wherein in a middle plane of two of said elastically deformable arms (8) the concave zone (10) defined by said junction portion (9) has a substantially curvilinear profile.

8. Shock-absorbing element (1) according to claim 7, wherein in said middle plane of two of said elastically deformable arms (8) the concave zone (10) defined by said junction portion (9) has a profile having a curvature radius between 1.0 mm and 4.0 mm, preferably between 1.5 mm and 2.5 mm.

9. Shock- absorbing element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein in a rest configuration of the shock- absorbing element (1), said junction portion (9) is positioned between the frame (2) and the support plane (P) at a distance (d) from said support plane (P) of the shock-absorbing element (1) between 0.5 mm and 4.0 mm, more preferably between 1.0 mm and 3.0 mm.

10. Shock-absorbing element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the convex support portion (8c) of said elastically deformable arms (8) has a curvature radius between 3.5 mm and 5.0 mm, preferably between 4.0 mm and 4.4 mm.

11. Shock- absorbing element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said elastically deformable arms (8) comprise a respective substantially curvilinear portion (8d) formed close to said first proximal end portion (8a) of the elastically deformable arms (8).

12. Shock-absorbing element (1) according to claim 10, wherein said substantially curvilinear portion (8d) of the elastically deformable arms (8) has a curvature radius between 20 mm and 28 mm, preferably between 22 mm and 26 mm.

13. Shock-absorbing element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said elastically deformable arms (8) form an angle (a) of from 60° to 90°, preferably of from 70° to 80°, with respect to a lower face (2a) of said frame (2).

14. Shock-absorbing element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said elastically deformable arms (8) have a circular or polygonal transversal cross-section, possibly with one or more rounded edges, preferably square or rectangular with rounded edges on the outer side of said elastically deformable arms (8).

15. Shock-absorbing layer (105) for floorings comprising a plurality of shockabsorbing elements (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, arranged side by side.

16. Flooring (101) comprising:- a substrate (102);- a surface layer (103) arranged above said substrate (102); and- a shock-absorbing layer (105) for floorings according to claim 15 arranged between the substrate (102) and the surface layer (103), wherein a first face (la) of each shockabsorbing element (1) faces said surface layer (103).

17. Flooring (101) according to claim 16, wherein the surface layer (103) comprises a synthetic turf (104) and an infill material (M) in granular form.

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