Interlocking Modular Floor Tile with Integrated Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional modular floor tile systems face challenges with secure connections, size adjustability, and alignment issues during installation and reinstallation, as well as limitations in versatility and custom sizing.
Innovation Solution
The modular floor tile system features interlocking tiles with downwardly projecting support legs and female connector elements that allow for easy size modification and secure interlocking, even after trimming, using a support grid with intersecting cross members and optional apertures for drainage, enabling flexible configuration and reconfiguration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate connectors are used to attach modular mats, then connection capability is provided, but alignment difficulty and loss of connectors occur during reinstallation
Solution Approach 1:
The connector elements are merged directly into the mat structure itself, eliminating separate connector components. The first mat has connector elements extending from its perimeter, and the second mat has corresponding receiving elements integrated into its structure, creating a unified system where connectors cannot be lost or misplaced.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using separate connectors that attach to mats, the invention inverts the approach by having the mats themselves contain the connector and receiving elements. This reversal ensures that alignment features are built-in and cannot be lost, directly solving the alignment and retention problems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional modular floor tiles are used, then floor coverage is provided, but size adjustment and custom sizing are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The floor covering system is segmented into multiple modular mats that can be independently manufactured in standard sizes but assembled in various configurations. This segmentation allows the overall system to be customized for different floor sizes and shapes while maintaining manufacturing efficiency through standardized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides dynamic adaptability by allowing mats to be easily added, removed, or reconfigured based on space requirements. The connector elements enable the modular system to dynamically adapt to different layouts and custom sizes without requiring custom manufacturing of each tile.
3Adaptability or versatility
If modular mats are trimmed to adjust size, then custom fitting is achieved, but secure connection is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The connector elements are positioned at specific locations on the mat perimeters, allowing local trimming of mat edges without affecting the integrity or position of the connector elements. This localized design ensures that custom sizing through trimming does not compromise connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector elements are pre-positioned and integrated into the mat structure before trimming occurs. This preliminary integration ensures that even after trimming to custom sizes, the connector elements remain securely attached and functional, maintaining connection strength.
Data Source
AI summary
An interlocking, modular floor tile that comprises a planar member defined by a perimeter having four sides and a top surface, a plurality of downwardly projecting support legs of common length dispersed pattern-wise inside the perimeter of the planar member and coupled with the top surface, and at least one female interlocking connector element that extends outside the perimeter of the planar member for receiving a support leg of a like tile and thereby forming an interlock with the like tile.