Composite Flooring With Expanded TPU Layers for Force Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sports flooring materials do not adequately address the need for improved force reduction to enhance athlete performance and safety.
Innovation Solution
A composite flooring structure comprising a bottom layer of expanded thermoplastic polyurethane particles dispersed in a matrix of EPDM and a surface layer of compact elastomers, such as EPDM rubber and polyurethane, achieving a force reduction of over 40%.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If traditional compact elastomer flooring is used, then structural strength is maintained, but force reduction is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials by combining expanded thermoplastic polyurethane particles with compact elastomers in a layered structure. The bottom layer contains expanded TPU particles dispersed in a matrix material, while the surface layer consists of compact elastomers. This composite structure enables the flooring to achieve superior force reduction (greater than 40%) while maintaining adequate structural strength, as each material contributes its advantageous properties to the overall system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by creating distinct layers with different material properties optimized for specific functions. The bottom layer uses expanded TPU particles which provide excellent force reduction and energy absorption, while the surface layer uses compact elastomers that provide durability and structural integrity. This spatial differentiation of material properties allows the flooring to simultaneously achieve high force reduction and maintain structural strength where needed.
2Force
If expanded thermoplastic polyurethane particles are added to improve force reduction, then cushioning increases, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the flooring into distinct functional layers: a bottom layer containing expanded TPU particles dispersed in a matrix material, and a surface layer of compact elastomers. This segmentation allows for optimized force reduction in the bottom layer while keeping the surface layer relatively simple. The layered structure simplifies manufacturing compared to creating a homogeneous complex material, as each layer can be processed and applied separately.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The composite flooring provides significant force reduction, improving cushioning and reducing the risk of injury by extending collision time, while maintaining other properties like deformation, friction, tensile strength, and abrasion resistance.
Implementation Method 1
the composite has a force reduction of more than 40% measured according to EN 14808:2005; wherein the expanded thermoplastic polyurethane particles are dispersed into a matrix of EPDM in the bottom layer of the composite
Implementation Method 2
The composite flooring provides significant force reduction, improving cushioning and reducing the risk of injury by extending collision time
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a composite comprising (1) a bottom layer comprising expanded thermoplastic elastomer particles; and (2) a surface layer on the bottom layer, and the use of such composites in flooring surfaces sports, sports hall floorings, swimming pool hall floorings, running tracks, sports facilities, playgrounds, kindergartens, park walkway and pavements