Tactile Ground Surface Indicator System

Abstract

15 Abstract A tactile ground surface indicator system is disclosed, comprising a plastic tile defining a top surface and a bottom surface. A metallic tactile ground surface indicator is mounted to the plastic tile, the tactile ground surface indicator including a main body that defines a raised surface for providing tactile feedback and a planar profile undersurface. A fixing shaft extends from the main body beyond the planar profile undersurface and includes a distal end affixing formation. A fastener engages the fixing shaft to secure the tactile ground surface indicator to the plastic tile. The plastic tile defines an aperture extending between the top and bottom surfaces, through which the fixing shaft is inserted. The planar profile undersurface rests against the top surface of the plastic tile. The fastener engages the fixing shaft at the distal end affixing formation and has a wider cross-section than the aperture, preventing withdrawal through the aperture. In some embodiments, the bottom surface of the plastic tile defines a recess surrounding the aperture to accommodate the fastener. In an embodiment, the distal end affixing formation includes a circumferential groove, and the fastener is a retention clip configured to engage the groove in an interference fit. The fixing shaft and aperture may have respective non- circular cross-sections to resist rotation. circular cross-sections to resist rotation. 20 26 20 09 95 11 F eb 2 02 6 2 0 2 6 2 0 0 9 9 5 1 1 F e b 2 0 2 6 c i r c u l a r c r o s s - s e c t i o n s t o r e s i s t r o t a t i o n . Figure 1 fOS" Figure 2 f C>'^ H( / r<si ic.'Z t ̂ <9 Figure 3 1 / 11 / 1 100 101 13 103 107 113 104 108 106112 105 111 102 109 114 in 115 114 110 115 20 26 20 09 95 11 F eb 2 02 6 1 0 0 2 0 2 6 2 0 0 9 9 5 1 1 F e b 2 0 2 6 1 0 4 1 1 2 1 0 5 1 1 1 1 0 2 1 0 9 i n 1 1 5 1 1 0

Description

Field of the Invention

[0001] The invention relates to tactile ground surface indicator systems used to provide tactile feedback for visually impaired individuals. More particularly, the invention relates to a tactile ground surface indicator system incorporating a secure fastening mechanism for attaching metallic tactile indicators to a plastic tile. Background of the Invention

[0002] Tactile ground surface indicators are widely used in public and private spaces to provide non-visual guidance for pedestrians, particularly those with vision impairments. These indicators are commonly installed on walking surfaces to signal changes in path direction, hazards, or areas requiring caution, such as railway platforms, pedestrian crossings, and stairways. They typically consist of raised features that are detectable underfoot or with the use of mobility aids.

[0003] Various types of tactile ground surface indicators exist, including individual tactile studs or bars affixed to a substrate and integrated tile-based systems. Installation methods for these indicators vary, with some designs incorporating adhesive bonding, mechanical fastening, or press-fit configurations to secure them in place. The durability and reliability of the attachment method are critical, as tactile indicators are frequently subjected to pedestrian traffic, environmental exposure, and cleaning operations.

[0004] The effectiveness of a tactile ground surface indicator depends on several factors, including the stability of its attachment, resistance to loosening over time, and ability to maintain a consistent surface profile. Secure engagement is particularly important to prevent misalignment, displacement, or premature wear, which could compromise the tactile function and introduce potential safety hazards. Additionally, conventional attachment methods, such as screw-threaded fasteners, may require precise alignment and torque application, increasing installation complexity and the likelihood of assembly errors. 2026200995   11 Feb 2026

[0005] Further, cost-effectiveness remains a significant consideration in the manufacturing and installation of tactile ground surface indicators. Many existing systems rely on multi-component fastening mechanisms that require time-intensive assembly, specialised tools, or precise threading, all of which contribute to increased labour costs. Additionally, the use of adhesives can introduce material costs and longterm maintenance concerns, particularly in high-traffic environments where indicators may need to be replaced. A fastening system that reduces installation time and material waste while maintaining a high level of durability and reliability can provide substantial cost advantages in large-scale applications.

[0006] There remains a need for a tactile ground surface indicator system that provides a robust and efficient fastening mechanism while ensuring ease of installation, durability, and long-term stability. The present invention seeks to address at least some of these considerations by providing a secure attachment arrangement that resists loosening, prevents rotation, and allows for convenient installation and replacement of individual indicators when necessary, all while offering a costeffective and scalable solution for widespread deployment.

[0007] It is to be understood that, if any prior art information is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the information forms part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country. Summary of the Disclosure

[0008] A tactile ground surface indicator system is disclosed, comprising a plastic tile defining a top surface and a bottom surface. A metallic tactile ground surface indicator is mounted to the plastic tile, the tactile ground surface indicator including a main body that defines a raised surface for providing tactile feedback and a planar profile undersurface. A fixing shaft extends from the main body beyond the planar profile undersurface and includes a distal end affixing formation. A fastener is provided to engage the fixing shaft and secure the tactile ground surface indicator to the plastic tile.

[0009] The plastic tile defines an aperture extending between the top and bottom surfaces, through which the fixing shaft is inserted. The planar profile undersurface 2026200995   11 Feb 2026 of the tactile ground surface indicator rests flat against the top surface of the plastic tile, ensuring a stable interface. The fastener engages the fixing shaft at the distal end affixing formation, preventing withdrawal of the tactile ground surface indicator from the plastic tile. The fastener has a wider cross-section than the aperture, ensuring retention against the bottom surface of the plastic tile.

[0010] In some embodiments, the bottom surface of the plastic tile may define a recess surrounding the aperture, the recess having a depth greater than a crosssectional height of the fastener. This configuration may allow the fastener to be seated within the recess without extending beyond the bottom surface.

[0011] In an embodiment, the distal end affixing formation may include a circumferential groove, and the fastener may be a retention clip configured to engage the groove in an interference fit. The clip may be a snap-fit fastener with limbs that define plier engagement apertures to facilitate installation and removal.

[0012] In some configurations, the fixing shaft may define a distal planar face, with the bottom edge of the circumferential groove positioned within a predetermined distance from the distal planar face. The fixing shaft and the aperture may define respective non-circular cross sections to resist rotation of the tactile ground surface indicator relative to the plastic tile. In an embodiment, the fixing shaft may have a D-shaped cross-section.

[0013] The plastic tile may be formed from a fibre-reinforced composite material comprising a polymer matrix reinforced with fibres. The tactile ground surface indicator may include a textured surface to provide an enhanced tactile cue.

[0014] Other aspects of the invention are also disclosed. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0015] Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the present invention, preferred embodiments of the disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0016] Figure 1 shows a top surface view of the tactile ground surface indicator system, including a plastic tile and a plurality of metallic tactile ground surface indicators mounted thereon. 2026200995   11 Feb 2026

[0017] Figure 2 shows a bottom perspective view of a metallic tactile ground surface indicator, illustrating the main body, fixing shaft, and distal end affixing formation.

[0018] Figure 3 shows a bottom surface view of the plastic tile, illustrating the aperture and the fixing shaft extending therethrough. Description of Embodiments

[0019] The tactile ground surface indicator system 100, as shown in figure 1, comprises a plastic tile 101 that provides a mounting structure for a metallic tactile ground surface indicator 103. The plastic tile 101 defines a top surface 113 and a bottom surface 102, forming an interface for securing the metallic tactile ground surface indicator 103.

[0020] Referring to figure 2, the metallic tactile ground surface indicator 103 includes a main body 104 that defines a raised surface 105. The raised surface 105 is configured to provide tactile feedback in use, allowing visually impaired individuals to detect changes in surface texture through foot contact or mobility aids. The main body 104 further comprises a planar profile undersurface 106, which provides a flat mounting interface designed to rest against the plastic tile 101. It should be noted that the undersurface 106 need not necessarily be flat itself as shown in the figures, but rather that it provides a planar profile to rest flat on the plastic tile 101.

[0021] Extending from underneath the main body 104, a fixing shaft 107 projects beyond the planar profile undersurface 106. The fixing shaft 107 is configured to engage with the plastic tile 101 for securing the metallic tactile ground surface indicator 103 in place. The fixing shaft 107 further defines a distal end affixing formation 108, which facilitates the attachment of the metallic tactile ground surface indicator 103 to the plastic tile 101.

[0022] As illustrated in figure 3, a fastener 109 is provided for securing the fixing shaft 107 in place. The fastener 109 cooperates with the distal end affixing formation 108 to prevent disengagement of the metallic tactile ground surface indicator 103 from the plastic tile 101. In a preferred embodiment, the fastener is similarly metallic for secure and reliable engagement of the fixing shaft 107. 2026200995   11 Feb 2026

[0023] The plastic tile 101 defines an aperture 110 extending between its top surface 113 and bottom surface 102, as shown in figure 3. The aperture 110 is configured to receive the fixing shaft 107 of the metallic tactile ground surface indicator 103, allowing for secure mounting. The fixing shaft 107 is inserted through the aperture 110 from the top surface 113 of the plastic tile 101 and extends through to the bottom surface 102.

[0024] Referring again to figure 2, the planar profile undersurface 106 of the main body 104 of the metallic tactile ground surface indicator 103 rests flat against the top surface 113 of the plastic tile 101. This ensures that the metallic tactile ground surface indicator 103 is stably positioned without gaps or misalignment.

[0025] As shown in figure 3, the fastener 109 engages the fixing shaft 107 at the distal end affixing formation 108, securing the metallic tactile ground surface indicator 103 in position. The fastener 109 prevents withdrawal of the fixing shaft 107 from the aperture 110 and ensures that the metallic tactile ground surface indicator 103 remains fixed to the plastic tile 101.

[0026] The fastener 109 has a cross-sectional dimension larger than that of the aperture 110, preventing the fastener 109 from passing through the aperture 110. This ensures that when the fastener 109 is engaged with the fixing shaft 107, it remains positioned against the bottom surface 102 of the plastic tile 101, securing the metallic tactile ground surface indicator 103 in place.

[0027] In some embodiments, the bottom surface 102 of the plastic tile 101 may define a recess 111 surrounding the aperture 110, as illustrated in figure 3. The recess 111 may have a depth greater than a cross-sectional height of the fastener 109, allowing the fastener 109 to be seated within the recess 111 such that no part of the fastener 109 extends beyond the bottom surface 102 when engaging the fixing shaft 107. This recessed configuration may provide a smoother bottom profile, reducing the risk of interference with underlying surfaces and minimising potential snagging or wear due to protruding components.

[0028] In certain embodiments, the recess 111 may have a depth greater than 1 mm. In further embodiments, the depth of the recess 111 may be greater than 1.5 mm. 2026200995   11 Feb 2026 Providing a recess depth greater than these values may enhance the ability of the fastener 109 to be securely housed within the plastic tile 101 while maintaining a flush or recessed bottom surface 102. This configuration may improve durability by reducing exposure of the fastener 109 to environmental wear, impact, or mechanical forces that could otherwise compromise the retention of the metallic tactile ground surface indicator 103. Additionally, the recessed design may facilitate installation by providing a defined seating location for the fastener 109, ensuring consistent and reliable engagement with the fixing shaft 107.

[0029] The distal end affixing formation 108 of the fixing shaft 107 may include a circumferential groove 112, as illustrated in figure 2. This groove is designed to receive and retain the fastener 109 in an interference fit, ensuring a secure connection between the metallic tactile ground surface indicator 103 and the plastic tile 101. By incorporating a circumferential groove, the system allows for a firm yet removable engagement, facilitating ease of installation and replacement without compromising stability.

[0030] To achieve secure retention, the fastener 109 may take the form of a snap-fit retention clip, as shown in figure 3. The snap-fit mechanism enables the fastener 109 to engage the groove 112 by resiliently deforming upon insertion and then returning to its original shape, locking the fixing shaft 107 in place. This configuration eliminates the need for additional fastening elements, such as screws or adhesives, streamlining the assembly process while maintaining strong mechanical retention.

[0031] Limbs 114 of the snap-fit fastener 109 may define plier engagement apertures 115. These apertures 115 allow for the application of pliers or similar tools to facilitate the controlled expansion or removal of the fastener 109 when necessary. The inclusion of plier engagement apertures 115 simplifies disassembly, enabling maintenance or replacement of the metallic tactile ground surface indicator 103 without excessive force or risk of damage.

[0032] The use of a snap-fit retention clip arrangement provides advantages over traditional screw-type fastening methods. A screw-type arrangement requires precise meshing of threaded components, which may introduce misalignment between the 2026200995   11 Feb 2026 metallic tactile ground surface indicator 103 and the plastic tile 101 if the threading is improperly engaged. Such misalignment can result in uneven or skewed components, leading to an inconsistent surface profile that may compromise tactile feedback and structural integrity. Additionally, threaded fasteners require rotational installation, which increases assembly time and may necessitate the use of specialised tools. In contrast, the snap-fit clip mechanism enables rapid and straightforward engagement without the risk of cross-threading or overtightening. By securing the fixing shaft 107 within the circumferential groove 112 through an interference fit, the clip arrangement ensures uniform alignment of the tactile ground surface indicator 103 while maintaining a flush and stable connection with the plastic tile 101. This design enhances both ease of installation and long-term reliability while reducing the likelihood of loosening or misalignment over time.

[0033] Positioning of the groove 112 relative to the fixing shaft 107 is also a consideration for ensuring optimal retention and compactness. The fixing shaft 107 may terminate in a distal planar face 113, with the bottom edge of the circumferential groove 112 located within 1.5 mm from the distal planar face 113. This close positioning ensures that the fastener 109 secures the metallic tactile ground surface indicator 103 with minimal axial movement, reducing the likelihood of loosening over time while maintaining a consistent and flush installation against the plastic tile 101. Furthermore, this close positioning minimises the total length of the fixing shaft 107 required to engage the fastener 109.

[0034] To prevent unintended rotation of the metallic tactile ground surface indicator 103 relative to the plastic tile 101, the fixing shaft 107 and the aperture 110 may be formed with corresponding non-circular cross sections. This configuration ensures that when the fixing shaft 107 is inserted through the aperture 110, rotational movement is restricted, thereby maintaining the proper orientation of the metallic tactile ground surface indicator 103 during installation and use. By resisting rotation, this design enhances the durability of the system and prevents misalignment that could otherwise compromise tactile feedback or introduce instability. 2026200995   11 Feb 2026

[0035] In some embodiments, the fixing shaft 107 may have a D-shaped crosssection, as illustrated in figure 2. The D-shaped profile provides a flat surface that interacts with a correspondingly shaped aperture 110 in the plastic tile 101, preventing the metallic tactile ground surface indicator 103 from rotating within the plastic tile 101. This feature ensures that once installed, the raised surface 105 of the metallic tactile ground surface indicator 103 remains consistently oriented to provide uniform tactile feedback. Additionally, the D-shaped cross-section may improve ease of installation by providing a clear directional fit, reducing the likelihood of improper assembly.

[0036] The plastic tile 101 may be constructed from a fibre-reinforced composite material comprising a polymer matrix embedded with reinforcing fibres. This composition enhances the structural integrity of the plastic tile 101, providing improved resistance to mechanical stress, environmental exposure, and wear over time. The reinforcement fibres may be selected to optimise strength-to-weight ratio, impact resistance, and dimensional stability, ensuring that the tile maintains its performance in high-traffic environments. By incorporating a fibre-reinforced polymer matrix, the tile 101 can offer superior durability compared to conventional plastic tiles while remaining lightweight and easy to install.

[0037] The metallic tactile ground surface indicator 103 may include a textured surface to provide an enhanced tactile cue, as shown in figure 1. The texture may be formed by ridges, grooves, or surface roughness patterns designed to increase friction and improve detectability for pedestrians using mobility aids or footwear. A textured surface can reduce the likelihood of slipping, particularly in wet or contaminated conditions, thereby improving safety. Additionally, the tactile cue enhances the perceptibility of the indicator, ensuring compliance with accessibility standards while maintaining a durable and wear-resistant surface.

[0038] During installation, the metallic tactile ground surface indicator 103 is positioned above the plastic tile 101, with the fixing shaft 107 aligned with the aperture 110. The fixing shaft 107 is then inserted downward through the aperture 110, passing from the top surface 113 to the bottom surface 102 of the plastic tile 2026200995   11 Feb 2026 101. As the fixing shaft 107 progresses through the aperture 110, the planar profile undersurface 106 of the main body 104 comes into contact with the top surface 113, ensuring a flush and stable interface between the metallic tactile ground surface indicator 103 and the plastic tile 101.

[0039] Once the fixing shaft 107 has been fully inserted through the aperture 110, the fastener 109 is applied to secure the metallic tactile ground surface indicator 103 in place. The fastener 109, in the form of a snap-fit retention clip, is engaged with the circumferential groove 112 of the fixing shaft 107. During engagement, the limbs 114 of the fastener 109 may deform outward slightly to accommodate the fixing shaft 107 before snapping back into position, locking the fastener 109 into the groove 112. This interference fit prevents axial displacement of the metallic tactile ground surface indicator 103 while allowing for tool-assisted removal if necessary.

[0040] To further facilitate secure engagement, pliers or a similar tool may be used to press the fastener 109 into place via the plier engagement apertures 115. The apertures 115 allow for controlled application of force, ensuring that the fastener 109 is fully seated within the groove 112 without excessive deformation or misalignment. Once secured, the bottom edge of the fastener 109 is positioned within the recess 111 of the bottom surface 102, preventing any portion of the fastener 109 from extending beyond the bottom surface 102. This recessed arrangement maintains a smooth profile on the underside of the plastic tile 101, reducing the likelihood of interference with underlying surfaces or obstacles.

[0041] When installed, the non-circular cross-section of the fixing shaft 107, which may take the form of a D-shaped profile, interacts with the correspondingly shaped aperture 110 to resist rotational movement. This ensures that the metallic tactile ground surface indicator 103 remains properly aligned with adjacent indicators and maintains a uniform tactile pattern on the plastic tile 101. The resistance to rotation further enhances the durability of the system by preventing unintended movement due to pedestrian traffic or environmental factors.

[0042] To remove the metallic tactile ground surface indicator 103 for maintenance or replacement, pliers may be inserted into the plier engagement apertures 115 to 2026200995   11 Feb 2026 expand the limbs 114 of the fastener 109, disengaging it from the groove 112. Once disengaged, the fixing shaft 107 can be withdrawn from the aperture 110, allowing for replacement of the metallic tactile ground surface indicator 103 without damaging the plastic tile 101. The ability to remove and replace individual indicators as needed ensures long-term functionality and ease of maintenance, particularly in high-traffic environments where wear and tear may necessitate periodic replacements.

[0043] The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that specific details are not required in order to practise the invention. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the invention are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed as obviously many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical applications, thereby enabling others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the following claims and their equivalents define the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A tactile ground surface indicator system (100) comprising:a plastic tile (101) defining a top surface (113) and a bottom surface (102),a metallic tactile ground surface indicator (103), the metallic tactile ground surface indicator (103) defining:a main body (104) defining a raised surface (105) for providing tactile feedback in use and a planar profile undersurface (106), anda fixing shaft (107) extending from underneath the main body (104) beyond the planar profile undersurface (106), the fixing shaft (107) defining a distal end affixing formation (108),a fastener (109),wherein:the plastic tile (101) defines an aperture (110) between its top (113) and bottom (102) surfaces,the fixing shaft (107) fits through the aperture (110) from the top surface (113) of the plastic tile to the bottom surface (102) of the plastic tile (101),the planar profile undersurface (106) of the main body (104) rests flat on the top surface (113) of the plastic tile (101),the fastener (109) engages the fixing shaft (107) by the distal end affixing formation (108), andthe fastener (109) defines a wider cross-section than the aperture.

2. The tactile ground surface indicator system (100) of claim 1, wherein the fastener (109) is metallic.

3. The tactile ground surface indicator system (100) of claim 1, wherein the bottom surface (102) defines a recess (111) surrounding the aperture (110) having a depth greater than a cross-sectional height of the fastener (109) so that no part of the fastener (109) extends beyond the bottom surface (102) when engaging the fixing shaft (107).2026200995   11 Feb 20264. The tactile ground surface indicator system (100) of claim 3, wherein the depth of the recess (111) is greater than 1 mm.

5. The tactile ground surface indicator system (100) of claim 3, wherein the depth of the recess (111) is greater than 1.5 mm.

6. The tactile ground surface indicator system (100) of claim 1, wherein the distal end affixing formation (108) comprises a circumferential groove (112), and the fastener (109) is a retention clip configured to engage the groove (112) in an interference fit.

7. The tactile ground surface indicator system (100) of claim 6, wherein the clip is a snap-fit fastener.

8. The tactile ground surface indicator system (100) of claim 7, wherein limbs (114) of the snap-fit fastener comprise plier engagement apertures (115).

9. The tactile ground surface indicator system (100) of claim 1, wherein the fixing shaft (107) defines a distal planar face (113) and a bottom edge of the circumferential groove (112) is located within 1.5 mm from the distal planar face (113).

10. The tactile ground surface indicator system (100) of claim 1, wherein the fixing shaft (107) and the aperture (110) define respective non-circular cross sections to resist rotation of the metallic tactile ground surface indicator (103) with respect to the plastic tile (101).

11. The tactile ground surface indicator system (100) of claim 10, wherein the fixing shaft (107) has a D-shaped cross-section.2026200995   11 Feb 202612. The tactile ground surface indicator system (100) of claim 1, wherein the fibre-reinforced plastic tile (101) is formed of a composite material comprising a polymer matrix reinforced with fibres.

13. The tactile ground surface indicator system (100) of claim 1, wherein the tactile ground surface indicator (103) includes a textured surface to provide a tactile cue.

14. A method of installing a tactile ground surface indicator system (100), the method comprising:inserting a fixing shaft (107) of a metallic tactile ground surface indicator (103) through an aperture (110) in a plastic tile (101) from a top surface (113) of the plastic tile (101) to a bottom surface (102) of the plastic tile (101);positioning a planar profile undersurface (106) of the metallic tactile ground surface indicator (103) to rest flat against the top surface (113) of the plastic tile (101); and engaging a fastener (109) with a distal end affixing formation (108) of the fixing shaft (107) to secure the metallic tactile ground surface indicator (103) in place.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the fastener (109) is a retention clip engaged in an interference fit with a circumferential groove (112) in the fixing shaft (107).

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the fastener (109) is a snap-fit fastener.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising applying pliers to plier engagementapertures (115) of the fastener (109) to facilitate installation or removal.

18. The method of claim 14, wherein the plastic tile (101) defines a recess (111)surrounding the aperture (110), the recess (111) having a depth greater than a crosssectional height of the fastener (109) so that no part of the fastener (109) extends beyond the bottom surface (102) of the plastic tile (101) when the fastener (109) engages the fixing shaft (107).2026200995   11 Feb 202619. The method of claim 14, wherein the fixing shaft (107) and the aperture (110) define respective non-circular cross sections to resist rotation of the metallic tactile ground surface indicator (103) with respect to the plastic tile (101).

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the fixing shaft (107) has a D-shaped crosssection.

Images