Dual-Sided Modular Flooring Mats With Traction And Locking Pins
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular flooring systems face challenges in providing a single mat design that can support both heavy industrial loads and lighter pedestrian traffic, often leading to safety and liability issues due to inadequate flooring for varying applications, and require complex installation processes with multiple components.
Innovation Solution
A dual-sided modular mat system with congruent layers, reinforced ribs, and integrated traction elements for industrial and pedestrian use, secured by a locking pin mechanism, allowing quick assembly without additional parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If heavy duty mats are used for industrial applications, then strength and durability are improved, but weight and ease of handling deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single modular mat that can serve both industrial heavy-duty applications and pedestrian applications. The mat achieves this through dual-sided design where each side has different surface characteristics (industrial side with higher traction and pedestrian side with lower traction), allowing the same physical object to fulfill multiple functional requirements without needing separate mat types for different load conditions.
2Strength
If multiple components are used for secure connection, then connection strength is improved, but device complexity and installation time worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies merging by integrating the connection mechanism directly into the mat structure itself. The interlocking system uses integrated lips and ledges that are molded as part of the mat, eliminating the need for separate connectors, bolts, or fasteners. This consolidation maintains strong connections between adjacent mats while significantly reducing the number of discrete components and simplifying the installation process.
3Stability of the object's composition
If complex installation procedures are used, then installation strength and stability are improved, but installation speed and productivity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service through the self-aligning and self-locking interlocking mechanism. The lips and ledges are designed to automatically guide adjacent mats into proper alignment and lock them together through simple placement, eliminating the need for complex assembly procedures, specialized tools, or multiple installation steps. This self-service approach maintains installation stability while dramatically increasing installation speed.
Data Source
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AI summary
A floor covering system is disclosed comprising a plurality of modular mats disposed in partially overlapping and interlocking relation with adjacent mats. An attachment edge of one mat overlaps a flange of an adjacent mat. Fitting receivers formed in the attachment edge align with corresponding fitting receivers in the overlapped flange of the other mat. A pin is disposed in the fitting receivers to secure the overlapping mats together.