Floor Mat Divider With Pivoting Snap-Fit Joint
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flooring transition systems make it difficult to remove one flooring surface for cleaning or replacement without compromising the aesthetic appeal or security of the joint between different types of flooring.
Innovation Solution
A flooring system with a divider comprising a first and second member that are snap-fittingly engaged, allowing the first member to pivot between locked and unlocked positions, enabling easy removal and re-engagement of flooring surfaces while maintaining a secure and aesthetically pleasing transition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a transition piece is permanently secured to a base surface between two flooring surfaces, then the joint is securely held and aesthetically pleasing, but the flooring surfaces cannot be easily removed for cleaning or replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The transition piece is divided into two separable members: a first member that engages with the flooring surfaces and a second member that is permanently secured to the base surface. This segmentation allows the first member to be easily removed from the second member, enabling access to flooring surfaces for cleaning or replacement while maintaining a secure joint appearance when engaged.
Solution Approach 2:
The first member is designed to be rotatable relative to the second member between a locked position (where it secures the flooring surface) and an unlocked position (where it can be removed). This dynamic mechanism allows the transition piece to switch between providing secure retention and enabling easy access, resolving the contradiction between security and ease of operation.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a transition piece is designed to hold flooring surfaces firmly in place, then the flooring system is stable, but the flooring surfaces cannot be easily accessed for cleaning or replacement
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the transition piece into a removable first member and a fixed second member, the system maintains stability when the first member is engaged while enabling easy access when disengaged. The segmentation allows the flooring surfaces to be firmly held during normal use but easily accessed when needed for cleaning or replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotatable mechanism allows the first member to transition between a stable locked position that secures the flooring system and an unlocked position that provides easy access. This dynamic design resolves the contradiction by allowing the system to switch between stability and ease of access based on operational needs.
3Ease of operation
If the first member is made rotatable between locked and unlocked positions, then ease of removal is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable mechanism uses a simple curved terminal end on the protrusion that pivots within the recess, creating a straightforward rotational movement between locked and unlocked positions. This dynamic design adds ease of operation without introducing complex mechanisms, as the rotation is achieved through basic geometric features rather than complicated assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The curved terminal end of the protrusion is designed to naturally guide the rotational movement and engage with the recess in a self-contained manner. The mechanism serves itself by using the geometry of the protrusion and recess to automatically lock and unlock without requiring external actuators or complex control systems, thereby minimizing added complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A flooring system and a divider for use therewith which transitions between a first and second flooring surface. The divider includes first and second members that snap-fittingly engage each other. A protrusion with a curved terminal end extends from the first member is received in a recess in the second member. The protrusion enables the first member to pivot relative to the second member. A second protrusion extends outwardly from the first member and into a second recess in the second member. A pair of arms extends outwardly in opposite directions from a central base region on the first member and beyond the sides of the second member. In one embodiment, the arms are of the same length and are disposed generally at right angles to the protrusions. In another embodiment a leg extends downwardly from a longer one of the arms to provide extra support to that arm.