Embedded Fixing Device for Shock-Absorbing Floor Coatings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for fixing shock-absorbing floor coverings, such as those in playgrounds, are prone to detachment due to repeated use, temperature variations, and water issues, leading to high maintenance costs and environmental concerns, with current methods being expensive, time-consuming, and not meeting safety standards.
Innovation Solution
A fixing device integrated into the mass of the shock-absorbing covering, using stainless steel, brass, aluminum, recycled plastic, and fiberglass mesh, which anchors to the support without protruding, ensuring durability and reducing waste and chemical usage, allowing for easy installation and repair without modifying the support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If foundation trenches are dug to fix the coating edges, then pull-out resistance at edges is improved, but the substrate is damaged and restoration costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing device is divided into distinct components: a base element that anchors to the substrate, vertical elements that provide edge definition, and a coating layer. This segmentation allows the fixing structure to be installed without damaging the substrate, as each component serves a specific function and can be independently secured.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing device acts as an intermediary structure between the coating and the substrate. Instead of directly modifying the substrate with trenches, the fixing device provides the necessary mechanical interlock and edge support, transferring loads without requiring substrate excavation or damage.
2Reliability
If concrete edging with specific dimensions is built to ensure level slab and adhesion, then rainwater drainage and adhesion are improved, but installation time and financial investment increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing device provides localized functionality at the edges where it is most needed. The vertical elements create the necessary height differential for drainage at perimeter locations, while the base element provides anchorage. This localized approach achieves the drainage and adhesion functions without requiring extensive concrete construction across the entire installation area.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing device changes the geometric parameters at the edge locations to achieve the desired functions. The vertical elements create the necessary height for drainage, while the overall configuration provides adhesion surfaces. These parameter changes are achieved through the fixing device geometry rather than through extensive concrete construction, reducing installation time and cost.
3Strength
If rubber edging is installed on concrete base to fix coating, then coating fixation is improved, but financial investment and installation time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing device serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical anchorage to the substrate, defines the edge geometry, supports the coating layer, and facilitates drainage. This multi-functionality is achieved through a single integrated structure rather than requiring separate rubber edging, concrete base, and coating support components, simplifying installation and reducing material costs.
4Strength
If adhesive is used to glue shock-absorbing surface to subfloor, then coating attachment is improved, but edge fragility and detachment proneness worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing device creates a composite structure combining the substrate, the fixing device itself, and the coating layer. This composite construction provides mechanical interlock in addition to any adhesive bonding, creating a more durable connection at the edges where detachment is most likely to occur. The fixing device acts as a transition zone that distributes stresses and prevents edge delamination.
Data Source
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AI summary
Coating device (5) of a support (4), said device comprising: - a coating (5), preferably damping, configured to cover said support (4), - a fixing device (1) of the coating (5) on the support (4), wherein the fixing device (1) comprises at least a first fixing element (2) configured to be fixed directly to a surface of said support (4) by anchoring means configured according to the nature of the support (4), and in that the fixing device (1) is completely taken up in the mass of said coating (5) and method of repairing such a coating device of a support.