Mat Connector Posts for Tool-Free Skin Layer Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mat systems for temporary roadways and support surfaces lack efficient and secure connector systems for attaching skin layers, which are essential for providing additional features like electrical grounding and improved grip, and often require specialized tools or components.
Innovation Solution
The mat system incorporates connector posts with pin cavities and locking structures that allow for secure attachment of skin layers using a connector pin, which can be easily installed and removed, eliminating the need for additional tools or components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional pin-type connection systems are used to attach skin layers to mat systems, then the skin layers can be attached to provide electrical grounding and improved grip surfaces, but the connector systems require specialized tools or components for installation and removal
Solution Approach 1:
The connector post integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides structural support, contains the connector pin cavity, and incorporates the locking structure. This merging eliminates the need for separate specialized tools or components, allowing workers to install and remove skin layers using basic tools while maintaining secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking structure is designed to automatically engage with the connector pin through a simple rotational motion, creating a self-securing mechanism. The quarter-turn locking action allows the connector pin to lock into place without requiring additional tools or complex procedures, enabling easy installation and removal by workers.
2Adaptability or versatility
If skin layers are attached to mat systems to provide additional features like electrical grounding and improved grip, then the functionality of the support surface is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector post and connector pin system serves multiple functions: it attaches skin layers for electrical grounding, secures high-traction skin layers for improved grip, and provides a standardized connection mechanism that can be used across different mat configurations. This universal connector system reduces overall device complexity by using a single attachment mechanism for various functional requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The mat system is divided into modular components: the mat body, connector posts integrated into the mat, removable skin layers, and connector pins. This segmentation allows the skin layers to be independently attached or removed based on functional needs without affecting the mat structure, enabling flexible configuration while maintaining system simplicity.
3Reliability
If connector posts are integrated within the mat interior with connector pin cavities, then secure attachment of skin layers is achieved, but the manufacturing complexity of the mat increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector posts are integrally formed with the mat body during the manufacturing process, combining two manufacturing steps into one. This integration eliminates the need for separate post-installation steps and reduces assembly complexity, while the connector pin cavities and locking structures are formed as integral features of the mat, maintaining manufacturing efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector posts are formed with specific geometric parameters during mat manufacturing, including the connector pin cavity dimensions and locking structure features. By establishing these parameters during the primary manufacturing process rather than through secondary operations, the overall manufacturing complexity is reduced while ensuring consistent connector security.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and methods related to mats and connects are described. The apparatus include a mat having a top side, a bottom side, and an interior defined between the top side and the bottom side, and at least one connector post extending within the interior of the mat, wherein the at least one connector post comprises a connector pin cavity extending within the interior of the mat and configured to receive a connector pin and at least one locking structure configured to engage with a portion of the connector pin and secure the connector pin to the at least one connector post.