Buffer structure and flooring material

Abstract

A buffer structure (100) is provided with: a top plate (11) having an upper surface on which a load is received; and at least one leg part (12) which extends from the lower surface of the top plate in the Z-axis direction and has a cross-sectional shape that is curved toward one side in the XY plane to form a convex shape. Thus, in the buffer structure in which the legs are vertically arranged on the floor base, when a load is applied from the upper surface side of the top plate, the legs contract in the Z-axis direction and absorb the load until the load exceeds a threshold load, and when the load exceeds the threshold load, the legs contract in the Z-axis direction and absorb the load. The leg portion is bent toward the opposite side while expanding a cross-section bent into a convex shape in the ZY plane (i.e., buckling) and greatly displaced, thereby softening the leg portion, and after displacement, the upper side and the lower side of the side surface on one side abut against each other and contract in the Z-axis direction, thereby further absorbing the load.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a buffer structure for alleviating impact and a floor material including the buffer structure. Background Art

[0002] In order to prevent the elderly and others from falling while walking on the floor and suffering injuries such as fractures of the femur (particularly the trochanter), it is known that there are cushioning materials arranged under the floor surface to absorb the impact of falls. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a floor material having a foam layer formed using a foam material such as polyurethane. The elastic modulus of this foam layer increases linearly with respect to the applied load. Therefore, if the elastic modulus is set to be larger (smaller displacement, i.e., harder) for the smaller loads applied when walking, stability can be maintained when walking, but it is unable to absorb the larger impact when falling, resulting in fractures. Conversely, if the elastic modulus is set to be smaller (larger displacement, i.e., softer) to absorb the larger impact when falling, the material will be softly displaced even for the smaller loads when walking, making it difficult to walk. Therefore, a floor material such as that disclosed in Patent Document 2 is required, which has a larger elastic modulus (i.e., harder) for the smaller loads when walking and a smaller elastic modulus (i.e., softer) for the larger impacts when falling. Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-178519 Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2022-114615 Summary of the Invention

[0003] (Item 1) A buffer structure that mitigates impact can be provided. The buffer structure may include a top plate having an upper surface that receives a load. The buffer structure may include at least one leg portion extending in a first direction away from the lower surface of the top plate and having a cross-sectional shape that is convexly curved toward one side in a second direction in a plane intersecting the first direction. (Item 2) The at least one leg portion may be inclined relative to a lower surface of the top plate toward a side opposite to the second direction. (Item 3) The at least one leg portion may have a front end having a shape similar to the cross-sectional shape. (Item 4) The at least one leg portion may have a cross-sectional shape in which one side facing the second direction is bent into a convex shape. (Item 5) The at least one leg portion may have a recess formed in at least a portion of a corner portion on one side in the second direction. (Item 6) The recess may be formed from a base end to a front end of the at least one leg portion. (Item 7) The at least one leg may include a plurality of legs, which are arranged along the periphery of the top plate with the radial direction based on the center of the top plate as the second direction, the outer side and the inner side in the radial direction as the one side and the opposite side relative to the one side, respectively. (Item 8) Two adjacent legs among the plurality of legs may form a gap therebetween. (Item 9) The gap between the two legs may expand from the lower surface of the top plate toward the first direction. (Item 10) The top plate may have a frame shape including an opening at the center. (Item 11) The top plate may have a rectangular shape. The plurality of legs may be respectively disposed at corners of the top plate. (Item 12) The top plate may include a protruding portion protruding outward from a portion to which the plurality of legs are connected. (Item 13) The thickness of the protruding portion may be equal to or smaller than a thickness of the plurality of leg portions. (Item 14) At least one of the plurality of legs may include a rib formed between a lower surface and an outer side surface of the protrusion. (Item 15) The top plate may connect the protruding portions to each other, and a plurality of the protruding portions may be arranged in at least one direction of the second direction and a third direction intersecting the first direction and the second direction. The plurality of legs may be provided for each of the plurality of top plates. (Item 16) The top plate may include an end surface extending in the first direction from a side surface of the protruding portion of the top plate located at the outermost side among the plurality of top plates. (Item 17) The top plate may include a claw portion that is engaged with a claw receiving portion of a top plate of another buffer structure and / or a claw receiving portion to be engaged with a claw portion of a top plate of another buffer structure. (Item 18) The device may further include a bottom surface connected to the front ends of the plurality of legs. (Item 19) The bottom surface may include a central portion located in the center of the plurality of legs and a plurality of connection portions connected from the central portion to the front ends of the plurality of legs, respectively. (Item 20) The top plate may include a locking member extending from between two adjacent legs of the plurality of legs toward the outside of the top plate and having a front end expanded to be larger than a gap between the two legs. (Item 21) The at least one leg may include a plurality of legs, and the plurality of legs are adjacently arranged near the center of the top plate, with the radial direction based on the center of the top plate as the second direction, the inner side and the outer side in the radial direction as the one side and the opposite side relative to the one side, respectively.

[0004] (Item 22) There can be provided a flooring material comprising a surface material and the cushioning structure according to any one of items 1 to 21, which supports the surface material and is disposed on a floor base.

[0005] The above summary of the invention does not list all the features of the present invention, and subcombinations of these feature groups may also constitute inventions. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] Figure 1 The entire structure of the buffer structure according to the present embodiment is shown in three dimensions. Figure 2A The entire structure of the unit structures constituting the buffer structure is shown in three dimensions. Figure 2B The inner structure of the unit structure is shown in three dimensions with a portion omitted. Figure 2C The structure of the unit structure is shown in a plan view. Figure 2D The structure of the unit structure is shown in a bottom-up view. Figure 2E The structure of the unit structure is shown in side view. Figure 3A Indicates the state of overlapping buffer structures. Figure 3B Indicates a state where the cushioning structure is rolled up. Figure 4 Indicates the structure of the sliding rib. Figure 5A The function of the sliding rib (a state in which an end portion of a buffer structure is placed on an end portion of another buffer structure) is shown. Figure 5B This shows the function of the sliding ribs (the state in which the end of the buffer structure slides on the sliding ribs of the other buffer structure). Figure 5C The function of the sliding rib is shown (the state where the buffer structure is arranged in parallel with other buffer structures). Figure 6A The structure of the reinforcement rib is shown in side view. Figure 6B The structure of the reinforcing rib is shown in a bottom view. Figure 7A The structure of the linker structure is shown in three dimensions. Figure 7B The structure of the joint structure is shown on the side. Figure 8A The three-dimensional representation shows a state in which two buffer structures (two unit structures) are connected via a joint structure. Figure 8B The side view shows a state in which two buffer structures (two unit structures) are connected via a joint structure. Figure 9A This diagram shows the cushioning principle (no-load state) of the cushioning structure (unit structure). Figure 9B This shows the cushioning principle (contracted state) of the cushioning structure (unit structure). Figure 9C This diagram shows the cushioning principle (buckling state) of the cushioning structure (unit structure). Figure 9D Indicates the buffering principle (collapse state) of the buffer structure (unit structure). Figure 10 The cross-sectional structure of a floor material including the buffer structure according to this embodiment is shown. Figure 11 Indicates the cushioning characteristics of the cushioning structure. Figure 12 The entire structure of another unit structure constituting the buffer structure is shown in three dimensions. Figure 13A The second deformation mode (legs closed state) of the cushioning structure (unit structure) is shown. Figure 13B It shows the second deformation mode (maximum leg folding state) of the cushioning structure (unit structure). Figure 14A The third deformation mode (legs-opened state) of the cushioning structure (unit structure) is shown. Figure 14B The third deformation mode (maximum leg-spreading state) of the cushioning structure (unit structure) is shown. Figure 15A The overall structure of the unit structure of the modified example is shown in three dimensions. Figure 15B The inner structure of the unit structure of the modification example is shown in three dimensions with a portion omitted. Figure 15C The structure of a unit structure according to a modified example is shown in a plan view. Figure 15D The structure of a unit structure according to a modified example is shown as viewed from below. Figure 15E The structure of a unit structure according to a modified example is shown in a side view. Figure 16 The structure of the sliding rib in the unit structure of a modified example is shown. Figure 17A The structure of the locking member in the unit structure of the modification is shown in three dimensions. Figure 17B The unit structure of the modification is three-dimensionally shown in a state where the unit structure is connected to other unit structures via a locking member. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0007] The present invention will be described below by way of embodiments of the invention, but the following embodiments do not limit the invention as defined in the claims. Furthermore, not all combinations of features described in the embodiments are necessarily essential to the solution provided by the invention.

[0008] In the embodiments of the present invention, the word "approximately" may be used to describe the dimensions of a component. It should be noted that this means accurate to at least within a significant figure (significant digit) and includes a degree of uncertainty beyond the significant figure. For example, "approximately 1 mm" includes an uncertainty of approximately 0.1 mm.

[0009] Figure 1 The overall structure of the buffer structure 100 of this embodiment is shown in three dimensions. Here, the thickness direction of the buffer structure 100 is defined as the Z-axis direction, and the directions perpendicular to each other in the plane perpendicular to the Z-axis direction and the Y-axis direction are defined as the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction. As an example, the buffer structure 100 is formed on the floor base S (refer to Figure 9A The flooring material supports the floor surface on a reinforced concrete structure (e.g., a concrete floor), thereby absorbing impacts on the floor surface. Here, the floor base S can include a side of a floor slab (concrete floor) in a reinforced concrete building, a side with a floorboard installed on it, or a walking surface such as a floor or floor surface in a wooden building. In particular, the cushioning structure 100 is strong enough to withstand small loads during walking, allowing for stable walking, while being soft enough to absorb large impacts from falls and prevent fractures.

[0010] The buffer structure 100 is constructed by integrally connecting the extensions 11b of the top plates 11 of the unit structures 10, each having a thickness in the Z-axis direction, so that a plurality of unit structures 10 are arranged in a row in the X-axis or Y-axis directions, or a plurality of unit structures 10 are arranged in a matrix in the X and Y directions. The buffer structure 100 of this embodiment comprises nine unit structures 10, three in the X-axis direction and three in the Y-axis direction. However, the number of unit structures 10 arranged in each of the X-axis and Y-axis directions can be arbitrarily determined, and the lengths of the buffer structure 100 in each of the X-axis and Y-axis directions can also be arbitrarily determined.

[0011] Figures 2A to 2E The structure of the unit structure 10 constituting the buffer structure 100 is shown. The unit structure 10 is the smallest constituent unit constituting the buffer structure 100. Here, Figure 2A The figure in the middle shows the overall structure of the unit structure 10. Figure 2B A portion of the inner structure of the unit structure 10 is omitted and shown in three dimensions. Figure 2C The structure of the unit structure 10 is shown in a plan view. Figure 2D The structure of the unit structure 10 is shown in FIG. 1 as viewed from above. Figure 2E 1 shows the structure of the unit structure 10 in a side view. The unit structure 10 includes a top plate 11 and legs 12.

[0012] The top plate 11 is a member having an upper surface that bears a load. In this embodiment, the top plate 11 has a rectangular shape (particularly a square shape). In addition, the shape of the top plate 11 can be, for example, a hexagon or other polygonal shape, as long as it is suitable for arranging multiple unit structures 10 along a uniaxial direction or a biaxial direction. In the case of a rectangular or hexagonal shape, the unit structures 10 can be densely arranged.

[0013] The size of the top plate 11 is set to be sufficiently smaller than the extension of the load applied when a person (not limited to adults, but also including children) walks on the floor, that is, the extension of the sole of the foot contacting the floor when walking, and the extension of the knee hitting the floor when falling. In this embodiment, as an example, the length W of one side of the top plate 11 is 11 As a result, when not only adults but also children fall on the floor, the load applied to the floor can be absorbed by the plurality of unit structures 10, thereby preventing injuries such as fractures.

[0014] In addition, as described later, in order to support the surface material 120 etc. forming the floor surface on the buffer structure 100, as long as the load applied to the unit structure 10 can be borne by the surface material 120 etc., the top plate 11 is not limited to a plate shape with one side extended, but may also have a frame shape including an opening 11a in the center. The shape of the opening 11a may be circular (or elliptical), rectangular (including square), hexagonal, or other polygonal. The rigidity of the top plate 11 having a plate shape is slightly stronger, and the leg 12 is difficult to tilt relative to the top plate 11. In contrast, the rigidity of the top plate 11 having a frame shape is moderately lower, and the leg 12 is easy to tilt and bend relative to the top plate 11. As a result, it becomes soft to a larger impact during a fall and can absorb the impact.

[0015] Figure 3A The figure shows a state where the buffer structures 100 are stacked. Since the top plate 11 includes the opening 11a, the legs 12 of the plurality of unit structures 10 included in the buffer structure 100 are inserted between the legs 12 through the openings 11a of the top plates 11 of the plurality of unit structures 10 included in other buffer structures 100, and the legs 12 of the plurality of unit structures 10 included in other buffer structures 100 are inserted between the legs 12 through the openings 11a of the top plates 11 of the plurality of unit structures 10 included in other buffer structures 100. In this way, a plurality of buffer structures 100 can be stacked with a small thickness.

[0016] In this embodiment, the top plate 11 is a rectangular (particularly square) frame having a rectangular opening 11a in the center. The top plate 11 has an extension 11b extending outward (in the ±X and ±Y directions) from a portion connected to the leg portions 12 described later, in this example, the inner edge of the opening 11a. The width w of the extension 11b is 11b (Refer to Figure 2E ) can be set to the same degree as or greater than the width of the inner edge portion connected to the leg portion 12. In this embodiment, as an example, the width of the inner edge portion is set to the same degree as the thickness d of the leg portion 12. 12 The width of the extension 11b is set to about 1mm. 11 This increases the support surface and enables the upper surface layer 120 and the like to be supported stably.

[0017] In addition, the thickness d of the extension portion 11b is 11 (Refer to Figure 2E ) can be equal to or less than the thickness d of the leg 12 12 In this embodiment, the thickness d of the leg portion 12 is set to 12Thus, the relatively small thickness of the extension 11b moderately reduces the rigidity of the top plate 11, and the leg 12 is easily tilted and buckled relative to the top plate 11, thereby increasing the deformation stroke of the top plate 11 in the Z-axis direction.

[0018] Figure 3B Indicates a state in which the buffer structure 100 is wound. As described above, the buffer structure 100 is integrally formed by connecting the protruding portions 11b of a plurality of unit structures 10 to each other. The rigidity of the top plate 11 becomes low at the portion where the protruding portions 11b of the adjacent unit structures 10 are connected. Therefore, by arranging the unit structures 10 in a matrix, the buffer structure 100 is bent at the connection portion and can be easily rolled up along the arrangement direction of the unit structures 10. At this time, by inserting the leg portion 12 of the unit structure 10 into the opening 11a of the top plate 11 of the other unit structure 10, the buffer structure 100 can also be rolled up with a small thickness.

[0019] The legs 12 extend from the lower surface of the top plate 11 in the -Z direction and support the top plate 11 on the floor base S. At least one leg 12 is provided for each of the multiple unit structures 10 that comprise the cushioning structure 100. Preferably, multiple legs 12 are provided for each top plate 11, particularly multiple legs arranged along the perimeter of each top plate 11. Furthermore, if the top plate 11 is polygonal, the legs 12 are arranged near multiple corners. If the top plate 11 is circular, the legs 12 are arranged at at least three locations at arbitrary intervals. Consequently, when a load is applied to the top plate 11, the load is distributed across the multiple legs 12, thereby providing stable support for the top plate 11.

[0020] Height H of the leg 12 12 It can be determined based on the deformation stroke required for one unit structure 10 to absorb the load. In this embodiment, as an example, the height H of the leg portion 12 is 12 About 9mm.

[0021] Each leg portion 12 is inclined toward the center of the top plate 11 (or the unit structure 10) relative to the lower surface of the top plate 11. In a side view with respect to the X-axis direction (see Figure 2E ), the inclination angle θ of the leg 12 relative to the Z axis 12 The angle of inclination of the legs 12 in the side view in the Y-axis direction is the same. Thus, the legs 12 are easily buckled toward the center of the top plate 11.

[0022] Alternatively, the legs 12 may be perpendicular to the lower surface of the top plate 11 as long as they buckle when a large impact is applied during a fall. Alternatively, the legs 12 may be inclined toward the outside of the top plate 11. In this case, the inclination angle of the legs 12 may be the same as the inclination angle when inclined toward the center of the top plate 11.

[0023] Each leg 12 has a cross-sectional shape that is bent into a convex shape toward one side in the XY plane. The leg 12 can be bent into a convex shape toward one side, and preferably is pressed into a convex shape toward one side. As a result, the transition of the deformation mode of the leg 12 when a load is applied, that is, the transition from the expansion mode to the buckling mode or the transition from the buckling mode to the expansion mode becomes clearer. That is, the characteristic transition of the leg 12 being harder before the load exceeds the threshold strength and becoming softer when the load exceeds the threshold strength becomes clearer. Here, by selecting the thickness d of the leg 12 12 (Refer to Figure 2B ), to adjust the threshold load of deformation mode transition. In this example, as an example, the thickness d 12 Set to about 1mm.

[0024] In this embodiment, the top plate 11 has a rectangular shape, and the four legs 12 are arranged near the four corners of the top plate 11, with their convexly curved outer surfaces facing radially outward from the center of the unit structure 10 (or the top plate 11) when viewed from above. Specifically, the legs 12 arranged near the -X and -Y corners of the top plate 11 are bent outward from the center of the top plate 11, i.e., convexly at 90 degrees in the -X and -Y directions (forming an L-shape from the -X direction to the +Y direction), with their inner surfaces flush with the inner surfaces of the -X and -Y corners of the top plate 11, and their upper ends connected to the lower surfaces of the -X and -Y corners of the top plate 11. Furthermore, the legs 12 disposed near the -X and +Y corners of the top plate 11 are bent outward from the center of the top plate 11, that is, in a convex shape at 90 degrees in the -X and +Y directions (forming an L-shape from the +Y direction to the +X direction), with the inner side surfaces flush with the inner surfaces of the -X and +Y corners of the top plate 11, and the upper ends are connected to the lower surfaces of the -X and +Y corners of the top plate 11. Furthermore, the legs 12 disposed near the +X and +Y corners of the top plate 11 are bent outward from the center of the top plate 11, that is, in a convex shape at 90 degrees in the +X and +Y directions (forming an L-shape from the +X direction to the -Y direction), with the inner side surfaces flush with the inner surfaces of the +X and +Y corners of the top plate 11, and the upper ends are connected to the lower surfaces of the +X and +Y corners of the top plate 11. Furthermore, the legs 12 arranged near the +X and -Y corners of the top plate 11 are bent outward from the center of the top plate 11, that is, in a convex shape at 90 degrees in the +X and -Y directions (forming an L-shape from the -Y direction to the -X direction), with the inner side surfaces flush with the inner surfaces of the +X and -Y corners of the top plate 11, and the upper ends connected to the lower surfaces of the +X and -Y corners of the top plate 11. Thus, the top plate 11 is supported by the multiple (four in this example) legs 12 arranged along its periphery. When a load exceeding a threshold load is applied to the top plate 11, the legs 12 buckle radially inward, thereby preventing outward expansion and interference with the legs 12 of adjacent unit structures 10.

[0025] As described above, the leg 12 has a front end with a shape similar to a cross-sectional shape bent into a convex shape. That is, in each leg 12, there is no end face parallel to the XY plane that connects the inner side of the front end bent at 90 degrees, nor is there a bottom face parallel to the XY plane that connects the front ends of the four legs 12, and a space 12c that is open along the Z-axis direction is formed between the front ends of the four legs 12. Thus, the four legs 12 are deformed in a manner that allows their respective main bodies (the center in the Z-axis direction) to expand more than 90 degrees in the XY plane (if an end face or a bottom face is provided, the rigidity is strong and it is difficult to expand), and the entire leg 12 is buckled toward the center of the top plate 11, thereby enabling the top plate 11 to be displaced to a large extent in the Z-axis direction. In addition, since the unit structure 10 is penetrated in the Z-axis direction, the air permeability is improved.

[0026] The shape of the leg portion 12 can maintain the rigidity of the leg portion 12 before buckling despite the small amount of components occupying the space. Furthermore, by reducing the number of components, the deformation stroke in the Z-axis direction can be maximized.

[0027] Each leg portion 12 has a recess 12a formed in at least a portion of a radially outer corner relative to the center of the unit structure 10 (or top plate 11) when viewed from above. Thus, when a load exceeding a threshold load is applied to the top plate 11 of the unit structure 10, each leg portion 12 is induced to bend radially inward, starting from the recess 12a.

[0028] The recess 12a is located at the center of the leg 12 in the Z-axis direction. Specifically, the recess 12a is formed into a wedge shape from the base end (i.e., the upper end connected to the lower surface of the top plate 11) to the top end (i.e., the lower end) of the leg 12, with the deepest point being at the center of the leg 12. The maximum width w of the recess 12a is 12a (Refer to Figure 2E ) is set to approximately 1 mm as an example. Thus, when the leg 12 bends, the upper and lower edges of the recess 12a interfere with each other, unrestricting the bending angle, i.e., the deformation stroke of the leg 12 in the Z-axis direction. This allows the entire leg 12 to be buckled, maximizing the deformation stroke. Alternatively, the recess 12a may be formed into a concave shape. Furthermore, multiple recesses 12a may be arranged side by side in the Z-axis direction.

[0029] A gap 12b is formed between two adjacent legs 12 of the plurality of legs 12. The gap 12b is smallest at the upper end of the two legs 12. For example, the minimum width w 12 In addition, the plurality of legs 12 may be connected to the upper ends of the adjacent legs 12. In this case, the minimum width w of the gap 12b is determined just below the connection portion. 12 Therefore, when the plurality of legs 12 are buckled, the air inside the unit structure 10 easily flows outward through the gaps 12 b , and the air damping effect is moderately reduced, making it easier for the legs 12 to buckle.

[0030] Furthermore, the gap 12b between two adjacent legs 12 determines the shape of the side surface of the leg 12 so as to expand from the lower surface of the top plate 11 (or the connection point between the two adjacent legs 12) in the -Z direction. When viewed from the side in the X-axis direction, the angle φ of the side surface of the leg 12 relative to the Z-axis is 12 (Refer to Figure 2E ) is 3 to 10 degrees, preferably 5 to 8 degrees, and more preferably about 6.3 degrees. Therefore, the gap 12b extends from the lower surface or connection portion of the top plate 11 to the lower end in a range of, for example, about 2 mm to about 4 mm. In addition, the length W of one side of the leg portion 12 is 12 (Refer to Figure 2EThus, the two adjacent legs 12 interfere with each other when a load exceeding a threshold load is applied to the top plate 11 and the top plate 11 is buckled, thereby limiting the deformation stroke of the top plate 11 in the Z-axis direction.

[0031] Figure 4 The structure of the sliding rib 13 of the unit structure 10 is shown. The sliding rib 13 is provided on the outermost unit structure 10 among the plurality of unit structures 10 constituting the buffer structure 100, and is formed in such a manner that the sliding rib 13 extends from the protruding portion 11b of the top plate 11 on the outer side of the leg 12 in the +Z direction and is inclined toward the outer side surface of the leg 12. Thus, an end surface 13a extending from the side surface of the protruding portion 11b in the +Z direction is formed, and an inclined surface 13b connected to the outer side surface of the leg 12 is formed below the end surface 13a. In addition, the width w of the sliding rib 13 is 13 For example, it is about 1 mm.

[0032] Figures 5A to 5C The function of the sliding rib 13 is shown. When two buffer structures 100 are arranged side by side on the floor substrate S, as shown in FIG. Figure 5A As shown, sometimes the end portion (i.e., the protruding portion 11b) of the outermost unit structure 10 of the right side buffer structure 100 is placed on the end portion (i.e., the protruding portion 11b) of the left side buffer structure 100. In this case, the inclined surface 13b of the sliding rib 13 of the right side unit structure 10 is placed on the protruding portion 11b of the left side unit structure 10.

[0033] Therefore, a load is applied downward (in the direction of the hollow arrow) to the top plate 11 of the right unit structure 10. As a result, the end of the extension 11b of the left unit structure 10 slides on the inclined surface 13b of the sliding rib 13 of the right unit structure 10, and the right unit structure 10 is pressed downward while deflecting to the right as indicated by the black arrow.

[0034] Therefore, if Figure 5B As shown, the unit structure 10 on the right side is positioned relative to the unit structure 10 on the left side in the left-right direction, and the end surface 13a of the sliding rib 13 of the unit structure 10 on the right side is in surface contact with the end surface 13a of the sliding rib 13 of the unit structure 10 on the left side. Furthermore, a load is applied downward (in the direction of the hollow arrow) to the top plate 11 of the unit structure 10 on the right side. As a result, the end surface 13a of the sliding rib 13 of the unit structure 10 on the right side slides on the end surface 13a of the sliding rib 13 of the unit structure 10 on the left side, and the unit structure 10 on the right side is further pressed downward as indicated by the black arrow.

[0035] Finally, if Figure 5CAs shown, the right unit structure 10 (i.e., the buffer structure 100) is arranged side by side with the left buffer structure 100 on the floor base S. In this way, by utilizing the end faces 13a and inclined surfaces 13b of the plurality of buffer structures 100 (unit structures 10), the plurality of buffer structures 100 can be positioned in the lateral direction and arranged on the floor base S so that the upper surface of the top plate 11 becomes flush with the surface.

[0036] Figure 6A and Figure 6B The structure of the reinforcing rib 14 of the buffer structure 100 is shown in side view and bottom view, respectively. A reinforcing rib 14 may be provided between two adjacent unit structures 10 among the plurality of unit structures 10 constituting the buffer structure 100. The reinforcing rib 14 is formed by connecting the lower surface of each extension 11b connecting the two adjacent unit structures 10 with the outer side surface of the leg 12 of the two unit structures 10 facing each other across the extension 11b when viewed from bottom. As an example, the width d of the reinforcing rib 14 is 14 and height h 14 The thicknesses are set to about 1 mm and about 2 mm, respectively. By providing the reinforcing ribs 14 between the top plate 11 and the legs 12, the rigidity of the legs 12 can be adjusted.

[0037] Furthermore, the reinforcing ribs 14 may be provided between the outer side surfaces of the mutually opposing legs 12 of all the unit structures 10 , but may alternatively be provided only between the outer side surfaces of the mutually opposing legs 12 of some of the unit structures 10 .

[0038] In order to connect adjacent buffer structures 100 when a plurality of buffer structures 100 are arranged on the floor substrate S, a joint structure may be provided on the outermost unit structures 10 of the plurality of unit structures 10 constituting the buffer structure 100. Multiple joint structures may be provided on one buffer structure 100.

[0039] Figure 7A and Figure 7B The joint structure of the buffer structure 100 (unit structure 10) is shown in perspective and side views. The joint structure includes a claw portion 15 provided on one adjacent buffer structure 100 (unit structure 10a) and a claw receiving portion 16 provided on the other buffer structure 100 (unit structure 10b). Here, the example illustrates a joint structure connecting the +Y end of the outermost unit structure 10a of one buffer structure 100 to the -Y end of the outermost unit structure 10b of the other buffer structure 100. However, the joint structure can also be provided at the outer edge (+X edge, -X edge, +Y edge, or -Y edge) of any of the outermost unit structures 10 of the two buffer structures 100.

[0040] The claw portion 15 is a member that engages with the claw receiving portion 16 formed on the top plate 11 of the unit structure 10b. The claw portion 15 extends in the +Y direction from the top plate 11 of the unit structure 10a and the upper end of the +Y-side outer surface of the +X and +Y-side legs 12. A groove 15a extending in the X-axis direction is formed near the tip of the lower surface, and a groove 15b extending in the X-axis direction is formed at the base end of the upper surface, forming an S-shaped shape when viewed from the side. Alternatively, the claw portion 15 can be formed between the top plate 11 and the -X and +Y-side legs 12 of the unit structure 10a.

[0041] The claw receiving portion 16 is a member that is locked by the claw portion 15 formed on the top plate 11 of the unit structure 10a. The claw receiving portion 16 is provided on the +X and -Y sides of the unit structure 10b instead of the leg portion 12, and includes a step portion 16b, a block 16d, and locking blocks 16c and 16e. The step portion 16b is formed so as to protrude from the inner edge of the +X side of the top plate 11 toward the -X side. The block 16d is formed so as to extend from the inner edge of the -Y side of the top plate 11 toward the +Y side. The locking block 16c is formed integrally with a portion of the top plate 11 on the -Y and +Z sides in such a manner as to connect the step portion 16b and the block 16d therebetween. The locking block 16e is formed on the +Y and -Z sides in such a manner as to connect the step portion 16b and the block 16d therebetween. The locking blocks 16 c and 16 e form a space 16 a having an S-shape when viewed from the side in the X-axis direction between the step portion 16 b and the block body 16 d .

[0042] Figure 8A and Figure 8B The state in which two buffer structures 100 (two unit structures 10a and 10b) are connected by a joint structure is shown in three-dimensional and side views respectively. First, the claw portion 15 of the unit structure 10a is inserted into the space 16a of the claw receiving portion 16 of the unit structure 10b from the bottom of the locking block 16c toward the top of the locking block 16e. Next, the locking block 16e of the claw receiving portion 16 is embedded in the groove 15a of the claw portion 15, and the locking block 16c of the claw receiving portion 16 is embedded in the groove 15b of the claw portion 15. Then, the protruding portion 11b on the +Y side of the top plate 11 of the unit structure 10a is brought into contact with the protruding portion 11b on the -Y side of the top plate 11 of the unit structure 10b, and the two unit structures 10a and 10b are placed side by side so that these top plates 11 become the same plane. Thus, the two unit structures 10a and 10b, that is, the two buffer structures 100, are connected.

[0043] Furthermore, one buffer structure 100 may include, in addition to the unit structure 10a having the claw portion 15, a unit structure 10b having the claw receiving portion 16. Furthermore, another buffer structure 100 may include, in addition to the unit structure 10b having the claw receiving portion 16, a unit structure 10a having the claw portion 15. In other words, the buffer structure 100 may include at least one unit structure 10a having the claw portion 15 and at least one unit structure 10b having the claw receiving portion 16.

[0044] 9A to 9D The buffering principle of the buffer structure 100 (unit structure 10) is shown. In addition, one unit structure 10 among the plurality of unit structures 10 constituting the buffer structure 100 is illustrated. Figure 9A The upper and lower sections of FIG. 1 show the unit structure 10 in a no-load state in a top view and a side view, respectively. The unit structure 10 is set on the floor base S. The top plate 11 of the unit structure 10 is supported by four legs 12 to a height H. 12 (Refer to Figure 2E ).

[0045] Figure 9B The upper and lower sections of the diagram show the unit structure 10 in its collapsed state, viewed from above and from the side, respectively. A downward load (in the direction of the hollow arrow) is applied from the upper surface of the top plate 11. However, this load is less than a predetermined threshold load. In this case, the four legs 12 supporting the top plate 11 contract slightly in the Z-axis direction, causing the top plate 11 to drop slightly downward (in the direction of the black arrow), thereby absorbing the load.

[0046] Figure 9C The upper and lower sections of the diagram show the unit structure 10 in a buckled state, viewed from above and from the side, respectively. The load (hollow arrow) applied to the top plate 11 increases to exceed the threshold load. In this case, the four legs 12 supporting the top plate 11 expand their convex cross-section in the XY plane while bending (i.e., buckling) toward the inside of the unit structure 10 (in the direction of the small black arrow) and displacing significantly in the Z-axis direction, thereby causing the top plate 11 to drop significantly downward (in the direction of the large black arrow).

[0047] Figure 9D The upper and lower sections of the figure show the collapsed unit structure 10 from a top view and a side view, respectively. The load applied to the top plate 11 (hollow arrow) increases further. The four legs 12 supporting the top plate 11 fully expand their convex cross-section in the XY plane, further bending and softening toward the inside of the unit structure 10 (in the direction of the smaller black arrow), causing the upper and lower sides of the outer surfaces to abut against each other and contract in the Z-axis direction. This causes the top plate 11 to drop further downward (in the direction of the larger black arrow) to absorb the load.

[0048] Thus, the cushioning structure 100 (unit structure 10) is hard for small loads less than the threshold load applied during walking, providing stability during walking, and is soft for large impacts above the threshold load during falling, allowing for large displacement to absorb the impact.

[0049] Figure 10 The cross-sectional structure of a flooring material 200 including the buffer structure 100 according to this embodiment is shown. The flooring material 200 includes a surface material 120 , an intermediate material 110 , and the buffer structure 100 .

[0050] Surface material 120 is a layered member whose upper surface forms the floor surface (i.e., the walking surface). To ensure walkability, surface material 120 can be made of hard materials such as wood, plywood, stone, vinyl chloride cushioning, tiles, carpet, cork, or long sheets. Surface material 120 can also be integrally formed with intermediate material 110.

[0051] Intermediate material 110 is a layered material positioned between surface material 120 and cushioning structures 100. It is used to smooth out irregularities on the upper surfaces of cushioning structures 100 arranged on floor substrate S. For example, intermediate material 110 can be a foam layer formed from a foam material such as polyurethane. Intermediate material 110 is positioned across at least two cushioning structures 100. This distributes localized loads applied to surface material 120 across multiple cushioning structures 100.

[0052] A plurality of cushioning structures 100 are arranged on the floor base S, and support the surface material 120 and the intermediate material 110. The cushioning structure 100 is configured as described above, and absorbs the load applied via the surface material 120.

[0053] The cushioning structure 100 of this embodiment can be manufactured by injection molding. Here, the top plate 11 and legs 12 are integrally molded. The cushioning structure 100 is formed using an elastic material such as NR rubber or a thermoplastic elastomer, so that when the load is released, the bent legs 12 return to their normal state. As a result, the legs 12 have a rubber hardness of 10 to 100, preferably 50 to 80.

[0054] Figure 111 shows the cushioning characteristics of the cushioning structure 100 (embodiment). In a numerical simulation based on the finite element method, the time evolution of the load (arbitrary unit) applied to the femur when a person with a body weight of 40 kg falls from an upright position and hits the femur on the floor surface (i.e., the upper surface of the surface material 120) is analyzed. As a comparative example, the cushioning characteristics of a carpet are also shown. It should be noted that as a carpet, a carpet with a pile formed by polyester on the upper surface of a low-rebound polyurethane layer of about 10 mm is used. In the case of the carpet, the load applied to the femur increases slowly, reaches a peak value at about 0.02 seconds, and then slowly decays. Here, the fracture strength (single-dot dashed line) is exceeded before the load reaches the peak value, resulting in a fracture of the femur. In contrast, in the case of the cushioning structure 100 of the present embodiment, the load applied to the femur is assumed to increase rapidly, reach a peak value within 0.12 seconds, remain roughly constant until 0.02 seconds, and then slowly decay. The peak load is smaller than that in the case of the carpet, and it is understood that the leg portion 12 buckles before the load reaches the fracture strength, and thus does not exceed the fracture strength.

[0055] With the flooring material 200 constructed as described above, in a cushioning structure 100 with legs 12 positioned upright on a floor base S, when a load is applied from the upper surface of the top plate 11, the legs 12 contract in the Z-axis direction, absorbing the load until the load exceeds a threshold load. When the load exceeds the threshold load, the legs 12, while expanding their convexly curved cross-section in the XY plane, bend (i.e., buckle) toward the inside of the unit structures 10, significantly displacing and softening. After this displacement, the upper and lower sides of the outer surfaces abut against each other, contracting in the Z-axis direction, further absorbing the load. Consequently, the flooring material 200 is rigid against small loads applied during walking, providing stability during walking, yet flexible against large impacts from falls, allowing for significant displacement and shock absorption.

[0056] The cushioning structure 100 of this embodiment includes a top plate 11 having a load-bearing upper surface, and at least one leg 12 extending from the lower surface of the top plate 11 in the Z-axis direction and having a cross-sectional shape that curves convexly to one side in the XY plane. Thus, in the cushioning structure 100, with the leg 12 disposed upright on a floor base S, when a load is applied from the upper surface of the top plate 11, the leg 12 contracts in the Z-axis direction to absorb the load (a telescoping mode) until the load exceeds a threshold load. When the load exceeds the threshold load, the leg 12 significantly displaces toward the opposite side (i.e., buckles) while expanding its convexly curved cross-sectional shape in the ZY plane, thereby softening (a buckling mode). After this displacement, the upper and lower sides of one side surface contact each other, contracting in the Z-axis direction to further absorb the load.

[0057] The flooring material 200 of this embodiment includes a surface material 120 and a cushioning structure 100 that supports the surface material 120 and is disposed on a floor base S. The flooring material 200 supports the surface material 120 on the floor base S via the cushioning structure 100. This allows the flooring material 200 to be rigid against small loads applied during walking, providing stability while walking, and to be flexible against large impacts from falls, allowing for significant displacement and shock absorption.

[0058] In addition, the buffer structure 100 of this embodiment is described as including a plurality of unit structures 10 having a rectangular frame-shaped top plate 11 and four legs 12 respectively provided near the four corners of the top plate 11 as a constituent unit, but the present invention is not limited thereto. A unit structure 10d (see FIG. 10d ) may also be provided as a unit structure including a plurality of cross-shaped top plates 11d and four legs 12 respectively provided near the four inner corners of the top plate 11d. Figure 1 ) as a constituent unit. In this case, Figure 12 As shown, the four legs 12 extend from the lower surface of top plate 11 in the -Z direction and have a cross-sectional shape that curves convexly inward in the radial direction relative to the center of top plate 11d (the center of the cross) in the XY plane. These legs are positioned adjacent to the center of top plate 11 at the four inner corners. Thus, top plate 11d is supported by the four legs 12, which are positioned adjacent to each other near its center and with the convexly curved portions facing each other, thereby providing high rigidity against forces applied in the XY plane.

[0059] In addition, in the buffer structure 100 of this embodiment, the leg 12 presents a mixed deformation (referred to as the first deformation mode) in which the deformation mode transitions between an expansion and contraction mode relative to a load less than a threshold load and a buckling mode relative to a load greater than a threshold load, but is not limited to this and may also present other deformation modes.

[0060] Figure 13A and Figure 13B The second deformation mode (leg closure mode) of the buffer structure 100 (unit structure 10) is shown in FIG. 1 . In addition, one of the plurality of unit structures 10 constituting the buffer structure 100 is shown as an example. Figure 9A As shown, the unit structure 10 is placed on the floor substrate S, and a load is applied to it in this state.

[0061] Figure 13AThe upper and lower sections of the unit structure 10 are shown in a top view and side view, respectively, with the legs closed. A downward load (in the direction of the hollow arrow) is applied from the upper surface side of the top plate 11. However, the load is smaller than a predetermined threshold load. The four legs 12 supporting the top plate 11 tilt at the connection portion with the top plate 11 and deform in such a way that their front ends are closed toward the inside. At this time, the four legs 12 slide their front ends horizontally (in the direction of the smaller black arrow) on the floor base S, thereby causing the top plate 11 to drop slightly downward (in the direction of the larger black arrow) to absorb the load.

[0062] Figure 13B The upper and lower sections of the unit structure 10 are shown in a top view and a side view, respectively, in a state where the legs are folded to the maximum extent. The load (hollow arrow) applied to the top plate 11 exceeds the threshold load and becomes larger (the load does not have to exceed the threshold load). The four legs 12 supporting the top plate 11 are further tilted at the connection portion with the top plate 11, deforming in such a way that their front ends are closed toward the inside. As a result, the four legs 12 slide their front ends on the floor base S in the horizontal direction (in the direction of the smaller black arrow) and interfere with each other at the center of the unit structure 10. Thereafter, the four legs 12 contract in the Z-axis direction, thereby causing the top plate 11 to further descend (in the direction of the larger black arrow) and absorb the load.

[0063] Figure 14A and Figure 14B The third deformation mode (leg-opening mode) of the buffer structure 100 (unit structure 10) is shown. In addition, the example is centered on one of the multiple unit structures 10 constituting the buffer structure 100. Figure 9A As shown, the unit structure 10 is placed on the floor substrate S, and a load is applied to it in this state.

[0064] Figure 14A The upper and lower sections of the diagram show the unit structure 10 in a state where its legs are spread out, as seen from above and from the side, respectively. A downward load (in the direction of the hollow arrow) is applied from the upper surface side of the top plate 11. However, the load is smaller than a predetermined threshold load. The four legs 12 supporting the top plate 11 tilt at the connection portion with the top plate 11 so as to deform in a manner such that their front ends spread outward. At this time, the four legs 12 slide their front ends horizontally (in the direction of the smaller black arrow) on the floor base S, thereby causing the top plate 11 to drop slightly downward (in the direction of the larger black arrow) to absorb the load.

[0065] Figure 14BThe upper and lower sections of the diagram represent the unit structures 10 in the maximum leg-spread state when viewed from above and from the side, respectively. The load (hollow arrow) applied to the top plate 11 exceeds the threshold load and becomes larger (the load does not have to exceed the threshold load). The four legs 12 supporting the top plate 11 are further tilted at the connection portion with the top plate 11 so as to deform in a manner such that their front ends are spread outward. As a result, the four legs 12 slide their front ends on the floor base S in the horizontal direction (in the direction of the smaller black arrow), interfering with the front ends of these legs 12 between adjacent unit structures 10. Thereafter, the four legs 12 contract in the Z-axis direction, thereby causing the top plate 11 to further descend (in the direction of the larger black arrow) and absorb the load.

[0066] In addition, each of the multiple unit structures 10 constituting the buffer structure 100 can be deformed in any one of the first to third deformation modes. That is, one or more unit structures 10 can be deformed in the first deformation mode, another one or more unit structures 10 can be deformed in the second deformation mode, and another one or more unit structures 10 can be deformed in the third deformation mode. In addition, the four legs of one unit structure 10 among the multiple unit structures 10 constituting the buffer structure 100 can be deformed in any one of the first to third deformation modes. That is, one or more legs 12 among the four legs of one unit structure 10 can be deformed in the first deformation mode, another one or more legs 12 can be deformed in the second deformation mode, and another one or more legs 12 can be deformed in the third deformation mode.

[0067] In addition, in the multiple unit structures 10 constituting the buffer structure 100 of this embodiment, a space 12c open in the Z-axis direction is formed between the front ends of the four legs 12, but in order to have appropriate rigidity for the main body of the leg 12 to expand and deform in the XY plane, a bottom surface 17 connected to the front ends of each of the four legs 12 may be provided instead.

[0068] Figures 15A to 15E The structure of the unit structure 10d2 of the modified example is shown. The unit structure 10d2 is the smallest structural unit constituting the buffer structure 100. Here, Figure 15A The three-dimensional representation of the overall structure of the unit structure 10d2 is shown. Figure 15B A portion of the inner structure of the unit structure 10d2 is omitted and shown in three dimensions. Figure 15C The structure of the unit structure 10d2 is shown in a plan view in FIG. Figure 15D The structure of the unit structure 10 is shown in the bottom view. Figure 15EThe structure of the unit structure 10d2 is shown in a side view. The unit structure 10d2 has a top plate 11, legs 12, and a bottom surface 17. Here, the top plate 11 and legs 12 are the same as those described above.

[0069] The bottom surface 17 is a plate-like member provided between the front ends of the four legs 12 and forming the bottom surface of the unit structure 10d2. The bottom surface 17 includes a central portion 17a and four connecting portions 17b.

[0070] The central portion 17a is located in the center of the four legs 12 in a plan view and has a size and shape that substantially encloses the interior space of the unit structure 10d2. In this example, the central portion 17a has a rectangular shape, and is arranged so that the four corners are adjacent to the tips of the four legs 12.

[0071] The four connecting portions 17b are connected to the tips of adjacent legs 12, starting from the corners of the central portion 17a. For example, each connecting portion 17b has a width equal to the width of the tip of the leg 12 when viewed in the direction in which the connecting portion 17b extends from the corners of the central portion 17a. Thus, a slit 17c connected to the gap 12b is formed between two adjacent connecting portions 17b among the four connecting portions 17b.

[0072] The bottom surface 17 has a substantially cross shape in a plan view by the central portion 17a and the four connecting portions 17b. In particular, by setting the central portion 17a to an appropriate size, it can be bonded to the floor base S (see Figure 10 ) and fix the unit structure 10d2. In addition, by providing the bottom surface 17, the deformation mode of the unit structure 10 can be limited to the expansion and contraction mode and the buckling mode without being affected by the friction with the floor base S (see 9A to 9D ).

[0073] Figure 16 The structure of the sliding rib 13 in the unit structure 10d2 of a modified example is shown. The sliding rib 13 is provided on the outermost unit structure 10d2 of the multiple unit structures 10d2 that constitute the cushioning structure 100. The structure of the sliding rib 13 is the same as described above. By utilizing the end surfaces 13a and inclined surfaces 13b of the unit structures 10d2, as described above, the multiple cushioning structures 100 can be positioned in the horizontal direction and arranged on the floor base S so that the upper surface of the top plate 11 is flush with the surface.

[0074] In the unit structure 10d2 of the modified example, a reinforcing rib 14 may be provided between two adjacent unit structures 10d2 among the plurality of unit structures 10d2 constituting the buffer structure 100 (see FIG. Figure 6A and Figure 6B ). Thus, the rigidity of the leg portion 12 can be adjusted.

[0075] Figure 17A The structure of the locking member 25 in the unit structure 10d2 of the modified example is shown in three dimensions. The locking member 25 can be provided at the outer edge (+X edge, -X edge, +Y edge, or -Y edge) of any of the outermost unit structures 10d2 of the cushioning structure 100. The locking member 25 includes a base 25c, an extension 25b, and a front end 25a.

[0076] The base 25c is a block-shaped component used to fix the locking member 25 to the unit structure 10d2. As an example, it extends from directly below the center of the extension portion 11b on the -X side of the top plate 11 to the upper part of the gap 12b between the two adjacent legs 12 on the -X side, forming an integral part with the top plate 11 and the two legs 12.

[0077] Since the base 25c is provided between the two legs 12 in this example, the extension 25b is a prismatic member that extends from the -X surface between the two legs 12 toward the outside of the top plate 11 in the -X direction and supports the front end 25a. The width of the extension 25b in the Y-axis direction is smaller than the minimum width w of the gap 12b. 12 In addition, the length of the extension portion 25b in the X-axis direction is slightly larger than the frame width of the top plate 11 when viewed from above. In addition, the extension portion 25b is not limited to a prism, and may be a columnar body of any shape such as a cylinder.

[0078] The front end portion 25a is a member that engages with the two legs 12 of the other unit structure 10d2, is fixed to the -X end of the extension portion 25b, and has a shape that expands in the ±Y directions. The width of the front end portion 25a in the Y-axis direction is larger than the minimum width w of the gap 12b. 12 .

[0079] Figure 17B The side view in the middle shows the state in which the unit structure 10d2 of the modified example is connected to the unit structure 10d2 contained in the other buffer structure 100 by the locking member 25. First, the unit structure 10d2 is rotated 90 degrees relative to the unit structure 10d2 in the YZ plane so that the front end 25a of the locking member 25 is facing the Z axis direction. Then, the front end 25a is inserted into the slit 17c of the unit structure 10d2 from one end in the +Z direction, and the extension 25b is moved to the upper part of the gap 12b connected to the slit 17c, so that the entire front end 25a enters the internal space of the unit structure 10d2. Finally, the unit structure 10d2 is rotated -90 degrees in the YZ plane, and its top plate 11 is arranged so that it is flush with the top plate of the unit structure 10d2. Thus, the locking members 25 of the unit structures 10 d 2 are locked to the two leg portions 12 of the unit structures 10 d 2 , whereby the unit structures 10 d 2 are connected to the unit structures 10 d 2 .

[0080] Alternatively, the cushioning structure 100 may include both the unit structure 10 and a modified unit structure 10d2. Specifically, a portion of the plurality of unit structures comprising the cushioning structure 100 may include unit structures 10, wherein four legs 12 are removed from the unit structures 10, and the remaining unit structures may include modified unit structures 10d2, wherein the bottom surface 17 is provided between the tips of the four legs 12.

[0081] While the present invention has been described above using embodiments, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope described in the above embodiments. It is apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications or improvements can be made to the above embodiments. As can be seen from the claims, embodiments incorporating such modifications or improvements are also encompassed within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0082] It should be noted that the order of execution of actions, sequences, steps, and stages, etc., in the apparatus, system, program, and method described in the claims, specifications, and drawings may be implemented in any order unless otherwise expressly stated as "before," "before," or the like, and unless the output of a previous process is used in a subsequent process. Even if the action flow in the claims, specifications, and drawings is described using the phrases "first," "next," or the like for convenience, it does not necessarily mean that the actions must be implemented in that order. [Explanation of Reference Numerals]

[0083] 10, 10a, 10b, 10d, 10d2: unit structure; 11, 11d: top plate; 11a: opening; 11b: extension; 12: leg; 12a: recess; 12b: gap; 12c: space; 13: sliding rib; 13a: end face; 13b: inclined surface; 14: reinforcing rib; 15: claw; 15a, 15b: groove; 16: claw receiving portion; 16a: space; 16b: step; 16c, 16e: locking block; 16d: block; 17: bottom surface; 17a: central portion; 17b: connecting portion; 17c: slit; 25: locking member; 25a: front end portion; 25b: extension portion; 25c: base; 100: buffer structure; 110: intermediate material; 120: surface material; 200: floor material; S: floor base.

Claims

1. A buffer structure for mitigating impact, wherein: The buffer structure comprises: a top plate having a load-bearing upper surface; and At least one leg portion extends in a first direction away from the lower surface of the top plate and has a cross-sectional shape that is convexly curved toward one side of a second direction in a plane intersecting the first direction.

2. The buffer structure according to claim 1, wherein: The at least one leg portion is inclined toward a side opposite to the second direction relative to a lower surface of the top plate.

3. The buffer structure according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The at least one leg portion has a front end having a shape similar to the cross-sectional shape.

4. The buffer structure according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The at least one leg portion has a cross-sectional shape in which one side facing the second direction is bent into a convex shape.

5. The buffer structure according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein A recess is formed in at least a portion of a corner of the at least one leg portion on one side in the second direction. The buffer structure according to claim 5 , wherein: The recess is formed from a base end to a front end of the at least one leg portion.

7. The buffer structure according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The at least one leg includes a plurality of legs, and the plurality of legs are arranged along the periphery of the top plate with the radial direction based on the center of the top plate as the second direction, the outer side and the inner side in the radial direction as the one side and the opposite side relative to the one side, respectively.

8. The buffer structure according to claim 7, wherein: Two adjacent legs among the plurality of legs form a gap therebetween.

9. The buffer structure according to claim 8, wherein: The gap between the two legs expands from the lower surface of the top plate toward the first direction.

10. The buffer structure according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein: The top plate has a frame shape including an opening at the center.

11. The buffer structure according to any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein: The top plate has a rectangular shape, The plurality of legs are respectively arranged at corners of the top plate.

12. The buffer structure according to any one of claims 7 to 11, wherein: The top plate includes a protruding portion extending outward from a portion where the plurality of legs are connected.

13. The buffer structure according to claim 12, wherein: The thickness of the protruding portion is equal to or smaller than the thickness of the plurality of leg portions.

14. The buffer structure according to claim 12 or 13, wherein: At least one of the plurality of legs includes a rib formed between a lower surface and an outer side surface of the protrusion.

15. The buffer structure according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein: The top plate connects the protruding portions to each other, and a plurality of the protruding portions are arranged in at least one of the second direction and a third direction intersecting the first direction and the second direction. The plurality of legs are respectively provided for the plurality of top plates.

16. The buffer structure according to claim 15, wherein: The buffer structure has an end surface extending in the first direction from a side surface of a protruding portion of an outermost top plate among the plurality of top plates.

17. The buffer structure according to claim 15 or 16, wherein: The top plate includes a claw portion that is engaged with a claw receiving portion of a top plate of another buffer structure and / or a claw receiving portion to be engaged with a claw portion of a top plate of another buffer structure.

18. The buffer structure according to any one of claims 7 to 17, wherein: The buffer structure further includes a bottom surface connected to the front ends of the plurality of legs.

19. The buffer structure according to claim 18, wherein: The bottom surface includes a central portion located in the center of the plurality of legs and a plurality of connection portions connected from the central portion to the front ends of the plurality of legs, respectively.

20. The buffer structure according to claim 18 or 19, wherein: The top plate includes a locking member extending from between two adjacent legs of the plurality of legs toward the outside of the top plate and having a front end that is wider than a gap between the two legs.

21. The buffer structure according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein: The at least one leg includes a plurality of legs, and the plurality of legs are adjacently arranged near the center of the top plate, with the radial direction based on the center of the top plate as the second direction, the inner side and the outer side in the radial direction as the one side and the opposite side relative to the one side, respectively. 22 . A flooring material comprising: a surface material; and the buffer structure according to claim 1 , the buffer structure supporting the surface material and being arranged on a floor base.

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