doormat

Abstract

Doormat (20), comprising a first layer (22) which rests on a base (28) when the doormat is in use, and a second layer (24) which is arranged on a side facing away from the base (28) when the doormat is in use, characterized in that the two layers (22, 24) are connected via a hook-and-loop connection and are designed to be detachable from one another.

Description

The present invention relates to a two-ply foot mat, in particular to a foot mat which enables easy removal or easy and quick replacement of an upper ply, for example for optical adaptations or cleaning purposes.At present, foot mats are an indispensable element in households and commercial establishments, and serve to remove dirt and moisture from shoes and thus ensure indoor cleanliness. Traditional footmats typically consist of a single layer of a robust material that is both durable and functional.Foot mats are often equipped with non-slip undersides to prevent slipping. The top of the footmats may be made of various materials including textiles, rubber or synthetic fibers that aim to collect dirt effectively and at the same time provide a pleasing appearance.Footmats are also used in particular in interior rooms, for example as bathmats in bathrooms. Since bath mats are often walked on in a barfoot manner, a pleasantly feel, preferably soft surface is desired. The color and / or design of the bath mat is also important for users, since this is intended to fit well to the bathroom and / or its interior.If foot mats are contaminated, damaged or the environment changes, for example by renovating a room, the replacement of the entire mat is necessary, which can be both costly and cumbersome. In addition, the replacement and disposal of foot mats which are generally produced from plastics place an burden on the environment.It is the object of the present invention to provide a foot mat which at least partially overcomes the disadvantages mentioned.According to the invention, the object is achieved by a foot mat having a first layer which, when the foot mat is used, rests on a base and a second layer which, when the foot mat is used, is arranged on a side facing away from the base, the two layers of which are connected via a hook-and-loop connection and are designed to be releasable from one another, so that the second layer can be exchanged or removed for cleaning purposes, for example for optical reasons.The invention thus makes it possible to remove and replace the upper second layer quickly and easily without having to replace the entire mat. This not only extends the lifetime of the mat, but also significantly improves the flexibility in terms of design. Cleaning of the upper layer is also possible much more easily.The lower first layer is intended to rest on a substrate, while the walkable second layer is arranged on the side facing away from the substrate. The connection of these two layers is effected via a hook and loop connection.The first layer preferably has a non-slip material on its side facing the underlying surface, which considerably increases the functionality, safety and stability of the foot mat. The non-slip material improves the adhesion of the foot mat to the ground by high friction and thus minimizes the risk of slipping. This is particularly advantageous in environments in which smooth or moist surfaces are present, such as, for example, in entry areas of buildings or in bathrooms, where the risk of slipping out is increased. User-friendliness is also improved as a result, since the foot mat does not have to be repositioned continuously. Suitable non-slip materials are, for example, rubber, silicone or special plastics.While the hook-and-loop connection allows the simple replacement of the second layer, the non-slip first layer ensures that the foot mat remains securely and stably on the ground.The hook and loop connection saves time and effort in the care of the foot mat and makes it possible to change the visual appearance of the mat quickly and without difficulty in order to adapt it to different seasons, occasions or decorations. A hook and loop connection works by the simple principle of hooks and loops. One side consists of many small tiny prongs (often hard and rigid), while the other side has many soft, fluffy loops. The hooks hook with the loops when pressed together, whereby a mechanical connection is produced. This connection is strong enough to hold together, but flexible enough to be easily opened again, easy to operate and reusable.According to one embodiment of the invention, the foot mat is designed such that the dimensions of the two layers in the horizontal plane are approximately the same. First, the equality of dimensions ensures that a seamless connection via the hook-and-loop connection is ensured over a maximum large area. This contributes to the foot mat lying stably and securely on the underlying surface without one of the layers being able to slip. The same dimensions also contribute to the durability of the foot mat, since in particular the wear of the hook-and-loop connection is reduced. The same dimensions of the two layers also aid in the simple and cost-effective production and replacement of the layers, since no special adaptations or blanks are required.According to a further embodiment of the invention, the foot mat can also have a second layer, the dimensions of which exceed the dimensions of the first layer in the horizontal plane, so that the first layer is completely covered by the second layer in plan view from above. The first layer of the foot mat is nevertheless dimensioned sufficiently large to form a stable base.The second layer can preferably also have different shapes than the first layer; it merely has to be larger and completely cover the first layer. For example, it is possible to replace a rectangular second layer by a round second layer.Regardless of the dimensions of the two plies, whether they are therefore the same or different, second plies can be used in different colors, but also with different walkable surfaces. It is thus possible, for example, to replace a substantially smooth second layer with a second layer of high-pile and / or completely different design.Thus, the second layer can be offered in various designs in terms of shapes, colors and materials to meet the individual needs and preferences of the users.According to a particularly advantageous embodiment variant of the invention, at least one of the two layers, preferably the first layer, has a filling made of foam. This filling serves as padding which increases the comfort when entering the mat. The elastic properties of the foam give rise to uniform distribution of the pressure which arises during the appearance, which leads to more comfortable and gentler use. In addition, the foam material offers excellent cushioning, which contributes to reducing noises that may arise during walking. This is particularly advantageous in environments where noise reduction is desired, such as in rooms or offices. A further advantage of the foam filling results if it is capable of absorbing and storing moisture in order to keep the surface of the foot mat dry. This can be particularly useful in entry areas where the mat frequently comes into contact with wet shoes, but is also particularly advantageous when used as a bath mat in a moist environment. Moreover, the foam material offers an insulating effect which helps to shield the cold of the substrate and to provide a warmer surface. This can be advantageous especially in cold climate zones or on cold floor coverings.The use of foam in the lower first layer of the foot mat also allows flexible adaptation of the mat to uneven or irregular substrates, since the foam can easily adapt to the shape of the substrate. This helps to increase the stability of the mat and prevent slipping. The ability to remove and replace the second layer of the mat remains while the foam fill provides additional comfort and functionality.According to a further embodiment, the foot mat comprises a filling or layer of so-called memory foam, which is preferably integrated into the first layer. Memory foam adjusts slowly as pressure and heat are applied to it. It must also be left to return to its original shape. Memory foam is a highly densified polyurethane foam that conforms to the contours of the foot and thus provides a pleasing and supporting surface. Moreover, the use of memory foam in the foot mat can also provide improved sound absorption since the material effectively dampens oscillations and noise. This is particularly useful in residential or office areas where a quiet atmosphere is desired.By using foam in one of the two layers, the visual appearance of the foot mat can also be influenced. In particular when the foam is in the upper second layer, an adaptation to the environment and optical change can be effected by replacing this second layer by different heights of the foot mat. For example, when used as a bath mat, a foam layer with a thickness or height of about 5 to 50 mm, preferably 10 to 30 mm and a density of 20 to 60 D has proven to be particularly pleasant and advantageous.According to one embodiment of the invention, the side of the first layer of the foot mat facing away from the base is formed from polyester. Polyester is a synthetic material known for its durability and durability. This choice of material offers several advantages for the foot mat. First, polyester is water repellent, meaning that the foot mat does not soften when wet and retains its structure and functionality. This is particularly advantageous in areas which are frequently exposed to moisture, such as entrance areas or bathrooms. Second, polyester is easy to clean, so the foot mat can be quickly and efficiently freed from dirt and stains without requiring special cleaning agents or methods. Third, polyester is resistant to mold and mildew, which improves the hygiene of the foot mat and prevents unpleasant odors. This is especially important in moist environments where organic materials are susceptible to mold formation. Fourth, polyester offers high abrasion resistance, whereby the foot mat retains its shape and function even when used intensively. This is advantageous in highly frequencyd areas in which the foot mat is subjected to a high load.Moreover, polyester is a low cost material, which makes the production of the foot mat economical and reduces the cost of the end user. The use of polyester on the side of the first layer facing away from the substrate also contributes to the optical design of the foot mat, since polyester is available in different colors and patterns. Finally, polyester is an environmentally friendly material because it is recyclable and thus contributes to reducing waste. Overall, the use of polyester on the side of the first layer of the foot mat facing away from the base offers a multiplicity of advantages which improve its functionality, durability, ease of care and aesthetic.According to one embodiment, the mutually facing sides of the two layers comprise polymer fibers. Polymeric fibers are synthetic fibers made from polymers--i.e., long molecular chains composed of repeating units (monomers). These fibers are usually man-made (in contrast to natural fibers such as cotton or wool). Polymeric fibers have high strength and environmental resistance, making the foot mat durable and resistant to wear. Polymeric fibers enable a reliable and stable connection between the first and second layers of the foot mat, thereby efficiently supporting the hook and loop connection. They also help maintain the bond between the plies stable even during frequent use and repeated removal and attachment of the second ply. Another advantage of the polymeric fibers is their flexibility that allows the second layer to be easily removed and reattached with little effort without compromising the structure of the fibers, thereby preserving the integrity of the hook and loop connection.Because polymeric fibers are relatively light, they can also reduce the weight of the foot mat without compromising stability, facilitating transport and handling of the foot mat.According to the invention, the layers can also comprise a flock material. A flock material in the textile field is a fabric whose surface is coated with small fibers (flocks) so as to feel soft and napped. This is especially advantageous when using the foot mat in areas in which it is entered barfoot, i.e. for example in bathrooms. Flock materials are also resistant to washing, cleaning and extremely abrasion. By embossing or swirling on the top, various structured surfaces can be formed; they are offered predominantly printed in color.The walkable top surface of the second layer may preferably comprise a durable woven, knitted or knitted fabric. This fabric can be multi-coloured, single-coloured or also printed.The two layers of the foot mat according to the invention can in turn have different layers. In particular, the lower layer can be constructed in three layers, by a bottom layer facing the substrate and made of a non-slip material, a middle foam layer and a connecting layer facing the upper second layer. The upper second layer can be formed by a walkable upper layer and a connecting layer located underneath.A particularly advantageous embodiment variant of a foot mat according to the invention has the following structure (from the bottom side upward): a) A first layer formed froma floor layer facing the substrate and made of a non-slip PVC material (polyvinyl chloride) having a mass of 80 to 300 g / m 2, preferably 100 to 250 g / m 2,a foam layer made of a memory foam having a density of from 20 to 60 D,a connecting layer facing the second layer, comprising a flock material made of polymer fibers having a mass of 80 to 250 g / m 2, preferably 100 to 200 g / m 2.b) a second layer formed ofa connecting layer facing the first layer, comprising a flock material made of polymer fibers having a mass of 100 to 300 g / m 2, preferably 150 to 250 g / m 2,a walkable top layer comprising a woven fabric made of polymer fibers with a mass of 100 to 1000 g / m 2, preferably 200 to 900 g / m 2, woven, knitted or knitted.The polymer fibers used may be formed from only a single type of polymer fibers or from a mixture of different polymer fibers.The invention is explained with reference to the following figures. These are only illustrative simple sketches and are not intended to limit the invention.In particular, the size relationships are not necessarily true to scale. The following are shown: FIG. 1 : a perspective basic illustration of a two-ply foot mat according to the invention, FIG. 2 shows an advantageous construction of a foot mat from FIG. 1 in a perspective basic illustration, FIG. 3 : Examples of different second layers for use with a first layer.FIG. 1 shows a foot mat 20 according to the invention, comprising a first layer 22 and a second layer 24, which are shown spaced apart from one another for improved illumination. The first layer 22 lies with its underside on a base 28, the second layer 24 has a walkable upper side 30 facing away from the base 28. The two layers 22, 24 are detachably connected to one another via a hook and loop connection. The hook-and-loop connection is accordingly formed on the two mutually facing sides of the two layers 22, 24.FIG. 2 illustrates a particularly advantageous embodiment variant of the invention. The two layers 22, 24 are each designed to be multilayer, wherein the first layer 22 is designed to be three-layered and the second layer 24 is designed to be two-layered.The lower first layer 22 has a bottom layer 32 made of a non-slip material facing the base 28, a middle foam layer 34 and a connecting layer 36- 1 facing the upper second layer 24. The upper second layer 24 has a walkable top layer 38 with the walkable top side 30 and a connection layer 36- 2 situated below it for connection to the connection layer 36- 1 of the first layer 22.FIG. 3 illustrates that the second layer 24 may have a different shape in the horizontal plane than the first layer 22. Preferably, the second layer 24 completely covers the first layer in this embodiment variant, so that different appearances of the foot mat 20 can be formed due to the shape of the second layer 24, as seen from above. By way of example, second layers 24 with different shapes are shown, namely rectangular, oval and star-shaped.The invention is not limited to the described and shown embodiment variants, but also comprises further variants and embodiments. For example, a foot mat according to the invention can also have more than only the two layers shown.Reference numerals20 Floor mat 22 First layer 24 Second layer 28 Subsoil 30 Upper side 32 Floor layer 34 Foam layer 36- 1, 36- 2 Connecting layer 38 Upper layer which can be walked on

Claims

Foot mat (20), having a first layer (22) which, when the foot mat is used, rests on a base (28), and a second layer (24) which, when the foot mat is used, is arranged on a side facing away from the base (28), characterized in that the two layers (22, 24) are connected via a hook-and-loop connection and are designed to be detachable from one another.Foot mat (20) according to claim 1, characterised in that the first layer (22) has a non-slip material on its side facing the base (28) when the foot mat (20) is in use.Foot mat (20) according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterised in that the shape and dimensions of the two layers (22, 24) are the same in the horizontal plane.Foot mat (20) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the dimensions of the second layer (24) exceed the dimensions of the first layer (22) in the horizontal plane, so that the first layer (22) is completely covered by the second layer (24) in plan view from above.Foot mat (20) according to one of Claims 1 to 4, characterized in that at least one of the layers (22, 24) has a filling or layer made of a foam.Foot mat (20) according to claim 5, characterised in that the filling or layer is formed by a memory foam.Foot mat (20) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterised in that a base layer (32) of the first layer (22) facing the substrate is formed from a non-slip PVC material (polyvinyl chloride) with a mass of 80 to 300 g / m 2, preferably 100 to 250 g / m 2.Foot mat (20) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterised in that a connecting layer (36-1) of the first layer (22) facing the second layer (24) is formed from a flock material of polymer fibres with a mass of 80 to 250 g / m 2, preferably 100 to 200 g / m 2.Foot mat (20) according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterised in that a connecting layer (36-2) of the second layer (24) facing the first layer (22) is formed from flock material made of polymer fibres with a mass of 100 to 300 g / m 2, preferably 150 to 250 g / m 2.Foot mat (20) according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterised in that a walkable upper layer (38) of the second layer (24) is formed from a fabric made of polymer fibres having a mass of 100 to 1000 g / m 2, preferably 200 to 900 g / m 2.Foot mat (20) according to one of claims 6 to 9, characterised in that the foot mat has a) a first layer (22), formed from - a base layer (32), facing the base, made of a non-slip PVC material (polyvinyl chloride), having a mass of 80 to 300 g / m 2, preferably 100 to 250 g / m 2 - a foam layer (34) made of a memory foam having a density of 20 to 60 D, - a connecting layer (36-1), facing the second layer (24), having a flock material made of polymer fibres having a mass of 80 to 250 g / m 2, preferably 100 to 200 g / m 2, b) a second layer (24), formed from - a connecting layer (36-1) facing the first layer (22), comprising a flock material made of polymer fibers with a mass of 100 to 300 g / m 2, preferably 150 to 250 g / m 2 - a walkable top layer (38), comprising a fabric made of polymer fibers with a mass of 100 to 1000 g / m 2, preferably 200 to 900 g / m 2, woven, knitted or knitted.

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