CN1973099A - Modular tile with controlled deflection - Google Patents

Abstract

A modular tile[100, 600] configured to interlock with multiple tiles to form a modular floor covering over a floor [101, 601]. The tile includes a surface [110, 610] having a periphery defining side walls extending downward from the surface [110, 610], the side walls [122, 622] having a coupling portion [124, 624] configured to couple with other tiles adjacent thereto to form the modular floor covering. The tile [100, 600] also includes a bottom side [112, 612], opposite the surface [110, 610], having a support grid including an array of downward extending post structures in the form of primary post structures [130]. Some of the post structures [130] include at least one resilient end portion [134] with a radial end surface [136] configured to be positioned against the floor [101. 601] to facilitate controlled deflection of the structures. The post structures may comprise primary and secondary post structures [630, 660], with the secondary post structures [660] limiting the deflection of the primary post structures [630].

Description

Combination bricks with controlled deflection

related application

This application claims priority to US Serial Application No. 60/547,489, filed February 25,2004. This application also claims priority to US Serial Application No. ________, filed February 24, 2005, entitled "Composite Bricks With Controlled Deflection." Each of these two applications is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

technical field

The present invention relates generally to modular synthetic tiles for use as floor coverings and, more particularly, to a support grid within the tiles.

Background technique

Various types of flooring have been used to construct courts for sports such as basketball and tennis, as well as for other purposes. These floor components include concrete, asphalt, wood, and other materials with varying properties. Each type of flooring has corresponding advantages and disadvantages. For example, concrete floors are easy to construct and can withstand long-term wear and tear. However, concrete does not provide "resilience" during use, so many people are injured each year by falls and other accidents while playing sports. Wood floors—such as those used on many basketball courts—provide just the right amount of resiliency to avoid this injury. However, wood floors are expensive to install and require ongoing maintenance to keep them in good condition.

Because of these considerations, the use of floor planks made of synthetic materials has become increasingly widespread. Synthetic flooring is advantageous for a number of reasons. A first reason for the popularity of floor assemblies is that they are generally formed from inexpensive and lightweight materials. Bricks can be easily replaced if damaged. If the floor needs to be moved temporarily, the individual tiles making up the floor can be easily disassembled, relocated, and then reattached to form a new floor at another location. Examples of composite floor assemblies include U.S. Patent No. Des. 274,588, U.S. Patent No. 3,438,312, U.S. Patent No. 3,909,996; U.S. Patent No. 4,436,799; U.S. Patent No. 4,008,548; U.S. Patent No. 4,167,599; U.S. Patent No. Des. 255,744.

The second reason for the popularity of floor assemblies is that the durable plastics that form them are built to last. Unlike other durable alternatives such as asphalt and concrete, the material is generally better at absorbing impact, and in contrast to asphalt and concrete, there is less risk of injury for a person falling on the plastic material. As described in U.S. Patent No. 4,930,286, connections for composite floor assemblies may even be specially designed to absorb lateral forces to avoid injury. Additionally, flooring components typically require little maintenance compared to other flooring such as wood floors. However, there is a need for synthetic flooring to have better impact-absorbing properties than current synthetic flooring materials. Specifically, current composite flooring does not have predictable and controlled deflection characteristics within the composite tiles under a certain predictable range of loads and impacts acting on the composite flooring. Additionally, current synthetic flooring materials do not exhibit the pop-up or rebound properties that wood floors do.

Accordingly, it would be advantageous to provide a floor tile that contributes to greater "resilience" against impact and pop-up characteristics comparable to or better than that of a wooden floor, while the floor tile Bricks are also easy to manufacture, durable and economical. Furthermore, it would be advantageous to provide a floor tile with predictable load absorption characteristics.

Contents of the invention

In view of the problems and deficiencies of the prior art, the present invention seeks to overcome these problems and deficiencies by providing a tile for interconnecting multiple tiles to form a combined floor covering above a floor, wherein the tiles are used to make it The support member has controlled deflection.

In accordance with the invention shown and broadly described herein, the invention features a tile for forming a floor covering above a floor. In an exemplary embodiment, the tile includes (a) a top surface having a perimeter defining a sidewall extending downwardly from the top surface, the sidewall having a structure for coupling with other tiles adjacent thereto. to form a joint of a composite floor covering; and (b) a bottom side opposite said top surface having a support grid comprising an array of downwardly extending polymer column structures, at least some of which The post structure includes at least one resilient end having a radial end face positioned against the floor to facilitate controlled deflection of the post structure.

In another exemplary embodiment, the brick includes (a) a top surface for receiving and distributing loads; (b) sidewalls extending downwardly from the top surface and defining the perimeter of the brick; (c) with an opposite bottom side of the top surface having a support grid for supporting the top surface above the floor; (d) a plurality of a primary column structure including at least one end portion that contacts the floor and facilitates controlled deflection of the primary column structure in response to loading; and (e) also extends downwardly from said bottom side and is connected to said A primary column structure spaced apart from or surrounding said primary column structure is a plurality of secondary column structures including at least one end that contacts the ground and supports said top surface when the primary column structure deflects.

The invention also features a method of making tiles for forming a floor covering above a floor. In an exemplary embodiment, the method includes (a) providing a tile having a top surface, a bottom surface and sides extending downwardly from the top surface to form a perimeter of the tile; (b) disposing multiple tiles across the bottom side. a primary column structure including at least one end portion that contacts the floor and facilitates controlled deflection of the primary column structure in response to load; and (c) connecting a plurality of secondary column structures to said primary column structure Structures spaced apart from or surrounding said primary column structure, the secondary column structure including at least one end portion contacting the ground and supporting said top surface when said primary column structure deflects.

Description of drawings

The invention will be more clearly understood from the following description and appended claims when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It is to be understood that the drawings illustrate only exemplary embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of the scope of the invention. It will be readily understood that the components of the invention as described herein and shown in the drawings may be arranged and designed in many different configurations. However, additional features and details of the invention will be illustrated and elucidated by use of the accompanying drawings, in which:

Fig. 1 shows a partial top view of a composite brick according to one embodiment of the present invention, showing a joint extending from the brick;

Figure 2 shows a top view of a plurality of bricks interconnected in combination in an array according to one embodiment of the invention;

Figure 3 shows a partial side view of a composite brick according to one embodiment of the present invention, showing the support grid of the brick with a column structure that allows the ends of the column structure to deflect when a load is applied to the brick. incline;

Figure 3(a) shows an enlarged view of a column structure showing the end of the column structure in a deflected position according to one embodiment of the invention;

Figure 4 illustrates a partial bottom view of the support grid of the brick of Figure 3 showing ends oriented skewed in first and second bi-directional directions, according to one embodiment of the present invention;

5 shows a partial bottom view of another embodiment of the combination brick shown in FIG. 3 according to the present invention, showing the ends having an elongated configuration and oriented to be skewed in first and second bidirectional directions;

Figure 6 shows a partial side view of another embodiment of a composite brick according to the present invention, showing a column structure supporting the grid, the column structure having a single end extending therefrom;

Figure 7 shows a partial bottom view of the support grid of the combined brick in Figure 6 according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 8 shows a partial side view of another embodiment of the supporting grid of the combined brick according to the present invention;

Figure 9 shows a partial side view of another embodiment of the supporting grid of the combined brick according to the present invention;

10 shows a perspective view of a composite tile according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the composite floor tile includes a plurality of primary column structures and a plurality of secondary column structures whose length is shorter than the primary column structures, so that when the primary The secondary column structure is in contact with the floor when the column structure deflects under a given load;

Figure 11 shows a top view of the surface of the exemplary composite floor tile of Figure 10;

Figure 12 shows a detailed perspective view of the surface of the exemplary composite floor tile of Figure 10;

Figure 13 shows a rear view of the column structure configuration of the exemplary composite floor tile of Figure 10;

Figure 14 shows a detailed rear view of the column structure configuration of the exemplary composite floor tile of Figure 10;

Figure 15A shows a side view of the exemplary combination floor tile of Figure 10;

Figure 15B shows a detailed side view of the exemplary combination floor tile of Figure 10; and

16 shows a detailed side view of the exemplary combination floor tile of FIG. 10 showing the deflected position of the primary post structure and the downward displacement of the secondary post structure to engage or contact the floor.

Detailed ways

Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which constitute a part of this specification and in which are shown by way of illustrations exemplary embodiments in which the present invention can be practiced. Although these exemplary embodiments have been described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, it should be understood that other embodiments can be implemented and can be implemented without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Various modifications can be made to the invention below. Therefore, the following more detailed description of the embodiments of the present invention as shown in FIGS. The features and characteristics of this invention describe the best mode for carrying out the invention and are sufficient to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is to be limited only by the appended claims.

The following detailed description, together with exemplary embodiments of the invention, is best understood by referring to the accompanying drawings, in which elements and features of the invention are designated by reference numerals throughout.

The present invention describes a method and system for controlling deflection of composite tiles.

1-3 illustrate a composite tile 100 configured to be interconnected into an array of tiles 105 to form a floor covering over a floor surface 101 such as a tennis court, basketball court, or any other suitable floor surface. The modular brick 100 of the present invention is used to provide enhanced "resilience," or a means for absorbing shock, to help improve the safety of various athletic activities typically performed on the array of bricks 105 . In addition, the tiles 100 of the present invention can provide a resiliency or elasticity similar to that of a wooden floor for a person moving on the tile array 105 . Such a tile 100 may be formed from any suitable synthetic material, such as a polymeric material, and using conventional molding techniques known to those of ordinary skill in the art, such as injection molding.

The composite tile 100 may include a top surface 110 having an opposing bottom side 112 or underside. The top surface 110 may be smooth, perforated, gridded, raised, or any other suitable surface desired for a composite tile floor covering. Bottom side 112 may also include smooth, perforated, gridded, raised, or other suitable surface configurations. The top surface 110 may include a square or rectangular shaped perimeter that defines a front side 114 , a rear side 116 , a first side 118 , and a second side 120 . Other suitable perimeter shapes such as triangular, hexagonal, etc. may also be used for the bricks.

Each of the front side, rear side, first side, and second side may include a side wall 122 having one or more coupling portions 124 integral therewith. Specifically, two adjacent sides, such as first side 118 and front side 114, may include one or more male couplers 126, while opposing two sides, namely, second side 120 and rear side 116, may include one or more male couplers 126. - One or more female couplings 128 may be included. The male couplings 126 and female couplings 128 on one tile are operable to complementarily mate with corresponding female and male couplings of other adjacently placed tiles. With this arrangement, tiles 100 may be interconnected in combination in columns and rows via male couplings 126 and female couplings 128 to form array of tiles 105 disposed above floor surface 101 .

Referring to FIG. 3 , the bottom side 112 of the brick 100 includes a support grid for supporting the top surface 110 of the brick 100 . The support grid may include a plurality of column structures 130 extending downward a length so as to overhang the side walls 122 of the brick 100 . Post structure 130 may include an upper portion 132 and one or more end portions 134 . The upper portion 132 may extend downwardly from the bottom side 112 of the tile 100 and the end portion may extend downwardly from the upper portion 132 . In one embodiment, each column structure 130 may include two end portions 134 extending from an upper portion 132 . Each end portion 134 may include a radial surface end 136 that may be disposed against and directly contact the floor surface 101 . End 134 can be sized and configured to be flexible and resilient as well as durable.

Referring to FIGS. 3 and 3( a ), the end portion 134 of the column structure 130 serves to absorb impact applied to the top surface of the combination brick 100 . Specifically, when a load L or impact is applied to the top surface 110, the radial surface ends 136 of the ends under the load L cause these ends 134 to move against the floor surface 101 and force these ends 134 in a lateral direction. Direction 148 reaches a laterally skewed position. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the direction in which the end portion 134 slides and deflects depends on the position and orientation of the load L relative to the radial surface end 136 of the end portion 134 . When the load L is removed, the ends 134 are resiliently retracted to their original positions. In addition, when the end portion 134 is in the load-bearing deflected position, the end portion 134 provides an upward spring force F due to the resilient nature of the end portion 134 . With this arrangement, the ends 134 contribute to shock absorption or "resilience" within the brick, thereby providing a higher degree of safety for persons on the brick 100 as well as providing additional resiliency within the brick 100 .

Furthermore, in this embodiment, the end portion 134 can be resiliently deflected, while the upper portion 132 of the post structure 130 can have a substantially unchanged position. In this manner, the upper portion 132 of each column structure 130 provides the necessary support for the brick 100 , while the end portion 134 provides the brick 100 with an impact absorbing component. Those of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate that the size and configuration of the ends 134 of the post structures 130 can be varied depending on the controlled amount of deflection or impact absorption desired for a particular application or activity performed on the tile 100 . Additionally, the type of composite material used for brick 100 is also a factor in the size and configuration of post structures 130 to provide the desired amount of deflection or impact absorption within brick 100 .

Referring to FIG. 4 , a bottom view of a support grid is shown showing post structures 130 in an array of post structures 135 in columns and rows. In one embodiment, upper portion 132 of post structure 130 may include a circular perimeter 142 . Thus, the upper part can be cylindrical or conical. Additionally, each post structure 130 may include two spaced apart ends 132 having opposing outer circular peripheries 144 . As shown, the orientation of the end 134 of one post structure 130 may allow the end 134 to be controllably deflected in the first bidirectional direction 150, while the orientation of the end 134 of an adjacent post structure 130 may allow the end 134 to deflect in the first bidirectional direction 150. The second bidirectional direction 152 is controllably deflected laterally. The first bidirectional direction 150 may be transverse to the second bidirectional direction 152 . As such, the orientation of the ends 134 within the array of post structures 135 may be a checkered orientation configuration. Other orientation configurations, such as staggered orientation configurations, row orientation configurations, column orientation configurations, etc., can also be used. For example, a column orientation configuration may include an orientation in which the ends 134 in one column have a similar orientation of the first bidirectional direction 150 , while an adjacent column may include an orientation of the ends 134 having the second bidirectional direction 152 . Those of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate that a variety of orientation configurations can be implemented within the column structure to control the directional deflection or movement of the ends 134 and further control the impact absorption properties of the tile 100 .

Referring to FIG. 5 , in another embodiment of the composite brick 200 , the upper portion 232 of the post structure 230 may include a square perimeter 242 . As with the previous embodiments, there may also be two end portions 234 extending downwardly from the upper portion 232 of the column structure 230 as shown and described with reference to FIG. 3 . In this embodiment, the two ends 234 for one post structure 230 can be elongated at least partially along the width 238 of the post structure 230 and are spaced apart and oriented generally parallel to each other. As with the previously described embodiments, the elongated configuration of the end portion 234 can facilitate elastic deflection of the end portion 234 through controlled bi-directional movement. Additionally, the orientation configuration of each end portion 234 within the array of post structures 235 may be a checkerboard orientation configuration, or any other suitable orientation configuration as described in the previous embodiments.

6 and 7 illustrate another embodiment of a support grid for a modular brick 300 comprising an array of column structures 335 . In this embodiment, post structure 330 may include a single end portion 334 extending downwardly from an upper portion 332 of post structure 330 . As with the previous embodiments, the end portion 334 may include a radial surface end 336 to facilitate elastic deflection in the lateral direction depending on the location of the load L applied on the top surface 310 . In this embodiment, the end portion 334 may be an elongated protrusion extending downwardly from the upper portion 332 of the post structure 330 . Additionally, the end portion 334 may be resiliently deflected in any suitable transverse direction 350 relative to the longitudinal axis 352 of the post structure 330 .

FIG. 8 shows another embodiment of an array of post structures 435 located on the bottom side 412 of the tile 400 . In this embodiment, the post structure 430 may include an end portion 434 having a cross-sectional area similar to that of the upper portion 432 of the post structure 430 . The cross-sectional dimensions of each post structure 430 can be sized and configured such that the ends 434 provide the desired impact absorbing capacity due to their ability to elastically deflect, while the upper portions 432 of the post structures 430 still provide adequate support. As with the previous embodiments, the end portion 434 may include a radial surface end 436 to facilitate lateral sliding of the end portion 434 against the floor surface 101 when a load L is applied to the top surface 410 of the tile 100 . In one embodiment, the post structure 430 may be sized and configured such that the end 434 is resiliently deflectable in any suitable transverse direction 450 relative to the longitudinal axis 452 of the post structure 430 as in the previous embodiments. incline. Alternatively, the column structures 430 may be sized and configured—similar to that described and shown with reference to FIG. .

FIG. 9 shows another embodiment of a brick 500 having an array 535 of post structures. The post structure 530 in this embodiment can taper down to an end 534 , where the end 534 can include a radial surface end 536 . In this way, the end 534 of each post structure 530 is resiliently deflectable upon application of a load L on the top surface 510 of the tile 500, similar to the previous embodiments. The post structure 530 in this embodiment may be conical, pyramidal, or any other suitable tapered post structure such as an elongated width structure to facilitate directional control of end 534 deflection. In one embodiment, the post structure 530 is conical and the end 534 is resiliently bendable in any suitable transverse direction 550 relative to the longitudinal axis 552 of the post structure 530 . In an alternative embodiment, the post structure 530 includes an elongated width that sufficiently controls the direction of elastic deflection of the ends to bend with bi-directional movement.

Those of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate that the column structures of the present invention can include various configurations that can deflect under different ranges of loads and impacts. Thus, the orientation configuration of the column structure can be controlled by, for example, manipulating the radius of curvature of the end, sizing the cross-sectional area of the end, and/or sizing the upper portion of the strut to accommodate excessive deflection, manipulating the orientation configuration of the column structure. deflection direction, etc. to form a column configuration with deflection control to deflect within a specific load range. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 9, the radius of curvature of the radial surface end of the end portion may be smaller than the radius of curvature of the end portion shown in FIG. Thus, the tip shown in FIG. 8 requires a greater load or impact to achieve deflection of the tip than that required for the tip shown in FIG. 9 . These various configurations of post structures can be determined by one of ordinary skill in the art to facilitate the controlled deflection required for a given type of activity to be performed on the tile array.

10-16 illustrate various features of a composite brick configuration according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The combination bricks shown in FIGS. 10-16 are similar to the exemplary combination bricks discussed above and shown in the accompanying drawings. However, this particular combination brick embodies a different concept of controlled deflection.

Referring to FIG. 10 , a perspective view of an exemplary composite brick 600 having a two-layer or multi-layer surface structure is shown. However, other single-layer surface tile configurations can also be used for the controlled deflection concept discussed herein, so the illustration of a double-layer surface is non-limiting. In fact, the controlled deflection concept discussed herein with reference to Figures 10-16 may be incorporated into any single surface tile configuration, such as those described above with reference to Figures 1-9.

Similar to what was described above, the composite tile 600 is used to interconnect a plurality of other tiles to form an array of tiles, such as those described above, to form a floor covering above a floor surface. As designed with the combination bricks described above, the combination brick 600 shown in FIG. The safety of all kinds of sports activities. In addition, the modular tile 600 of the present invention can provide resiliency or resiliency to a person moving across the array of tiles in a manner similar to a wood floor or the like. The combination brick 600 is also operable to perform other functions as will be described below or will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The modular tile 600 may be formed from any suitable synthetic material, such as a polymeric material, and may be formed using conventional molding techniques such as injection molding and other well known techniques.

10-13, composite tile 600 includes a surface topography. In one aspect, tile 600 can include a surface 610 having opposing bottom or undersides and sidewalls defining a perimeter. The top surface 610 may be smooth, perforated, gridded, raised, or any other suitable surface desired for a composite tile floor covering. The bottom side may also be smooth, perforated, gridded, raised or any other suitable surface. As shown, the surface 610 of the composite tile 600 comprises a double layer surface or a multilayer surface. The upper surface 611 is defined by a grid-like pattern of diamonds. The lower surface 613 is defined by a rectangular grid-like pattern that forms and functions with the upper surface 611 . The composite tile 600 may include a square or rectangular shaped perimeter that defines a front side 614 , a rear side 616 , a first side 618 and a second side 620 . Other suitable perimeter shapes such as triangles, hexagons, etc. may also be used for the combination brick 600 .

Each of the front side 614 , rear side 616 , first side 618 , and second side 620 may include a side wall 622 having one or more coupling portions 624 integral therewith. Specifically, two adjacent sides, such as first side 618 and front side 614, may include one or more male couplers 626, while opposing two sides, namely, second side 620 and rear side 616, may include one or more male couplers 626. - One or more female couplings 628 may be included. The male coupler 626 and female coupler 628 on one tile can be used to complementarily mate with corresponding female and male couplers of other adjacently placed tiles. With this arrangement, some tiles may be interconnected in combination in columns and rows via male couplings 626 and female couplings 628 to form an array of tiles disposed above the floor surface.

Referring to Figures 13 and 14, rear views are shown respectively of the combination brick 600 shown in Figures 10-12 and described above, wherein Figure 14 shows a detailed rear view of a portion of the combination brick 600. The bottom side of the brick 600 includes a support grid for supporting the top surface 610 of the brick 600 . The support grid may comprise a plurality of column structures in the form of primary and secondary column structures 630 and 660, each column structure extending down a length from the bottom side. Primary column structure 630 includes an upper portion 632 and one or more end portions 634 . Upper portion 632 may extend downward from the bottom side of brick 600 , and end portion 634 may extend downward from upper portion 632 . The primary post structure 630 may have any shape, size and configuration such as described above with reference to FIGS. 1-9 . Likewise, secondary post structure 660 includes an upper portion 662 and one or more end portions 664 . Upper portion 662 may extend downward from the bottom side of brick 600 , and end portion 664 may extend downward from upper portion 662 . The secondary column structure can also be of any shape, size and configuration. The primary and secondary column structures 630 and 660 may be placed on the underside of the tiles according to any conceivable arrangement, which may include patterned, random and layered arrangements.

As shown, the composite block 600 includes a plurality of primary post structures 630 spaced apart from a plurality of secondary post structures 660 to form a support for the composite block 600 , particularly the top surface 610 of the composite block 600 . More specifically, each secondary column structure 660 is positioned directly adjacent to or surrounded by four primary column structures 630 located at quarter-circumferential locations. Furthermore, each primary column structure 630 is directly adjacent to or surrounded by at least four secondary column structures 660 . This alternating pattern of primary and secondary column structures is repeated several times to form the supporting structure of the composite brick 600 . The specific post structure pattern and spacing between the various primary and secondary posts as shown in Figures 13 and 14 are not limiting but merely an exemplary arrangement.

The main column structure 630 is formed by or is an extension of or coupled to the underside of the lower surface 613 . The primary post structure 630 will always be in contact with the floor or ground and is considered the primary support structure for the composite tile 600 . Additionally, the primary column structure 630 is designed to deflect laterally rather than deform (eg, crush). On the other hand, the secondary column structure is formed by or is an extension of or coupled to the underside of the upper surface 611 . The secondary column structure 660 is designed to terminate at a predetermined distance so that when the composite brick 600 is under a non-deflecting load (a load less than the primary load threshold described below) or is not loaded, the ends of the secondary column structure 660 Does not touch the floor. As described below, the secondary post structure 660 is intended to be in contact with the floor or ground only under such circumstances, that is, all or part of the upper surface 610 of the brick is subjected to a sufficient distance to deflect the primary post structure 630 so that the When the secondary column structure 660 moves towards and contacts the floor or ground when an applied load is applied. Some uses or functions of the secondary column structure 660 include controlling the deflection of the primary column structure 630, or rather limiting the degree of deflection of the primary column structure 630; improving the durability of the composite brick 600 in response to applied loads; 600 to help prevent premature or inadvertent failure of the composite brick 600 under applied loads; and maintain and enhance the integrity, functionality and operability of the composite brick 600.

It should be noted that the secondary column configuration of the combination brick 600 described herein may also be incorporated into any of the combination brick configurations described above and shown in FIGS. 1-9. For example, the post structure 130 mentioned above and shown in FIG. 3 may be considered a primary post structure, while as taught herein, the composite brick 100 includes elements positioned on the primary post structure according to a predetermined post structure pattern or arrangement. Multiple secondary column structures arranged between or around a primary column structure. Those skilled in the art will understand and appreciate that the concepts of primary and secondary column structures disclosed herein can also be incorporated into other floor tile designs not explicitly described and shown herein.

Reference is made to Figures 15A and 15B, which respectively show side views of the combination brick 600 shown in Figures 10-14 and described above, wherein Figure 15B shows a detailed side view of a portion of the combination brick 600 . As shown, the main column structure 630 extends downwardly from the underside of the lower surface (not shown, see surface 613 in FIG. 12 ) and includes an end 634 that is in constant contact with the floor or ground 601 . The secondary post structure 660 extends downwardly from the underside of the upper surface (not shown, see surface 611 in FIG. 12 ) and includes an end 664 terminating at a distance x above the floor 601 . The distance x can be varied as desired. Thus, depending on the surface configuration of the composite brick 600 , the length of the secondary post structure 660 may be the same as or different from the primary post structure 630 . For example, when the secondary column structure 660 and the primary column structure both extend downward from a single surface configuration, the length of the secondary column structure 660 can be different from the primary column structure; If the different surface extensions of the configuration are extended, then their lengths may be the same or different. Additionally, the dimensions of the primary post structure 630 and the secondary post structure 660 may be the same or different. Essentially, the size, shape, configuration, pattern, location and number of primary and secondary column structures can vary according to the functional properties that a particular brick combination is desired to achieve.

The secondary column structure 660 is configured to actuate and contact the floor 601 only when the primary column structure 630 adjacent to the secondary column structure 660 deflects sufficiently in response to a load or impact L. Depending on the area of distribution of the load applied to the surface 610 of the composite tile 600 , one or more primary post structures 630 may deflect a sufficient distance for one or more secondary post structures 660 to contact the floor 601 .

Referring to FIG. 16 , which is a cross-sectional side view of a portion of a composite brick 600 showing exemplary offset positions of several primary column structures 630 under a load L, and several secondary column structures 660 relative to the floor 601 contact position. As in the other embodiments, the ends 634 of the primary column structure 630 are used to absorb impacts imparted on the surface 610 of the composite tile 600 . Specifically, when a load L or impact is applied to the top surface 610, the ends 634 of the main column structures 630 in the distribution area of the load L move against the floor surface 601 and are forced to reach A laterally skewed position. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the direction in which the end portion 634 slides and deflects depends on the location and direction of the load L. For example, Figure 16 shows several primary column structures 630 deflecting in one direction in response to load L, and deflection of primary column structure 630-b in another opposite direction.

It should be clear to those skilled in the art that the magnitude of the load L will determine the magnitude of the deflection of the main column structure 630 . Some loading may cause little or a small amount of deflection of the primary column structure 630 such that the secondary column structure 660 does not touch the floor 601 . Under a sufficient predetermined load L, the primary post structures 630 deflect laterally such that the surface 610 of the composite tile 600 moves towards the floor 601 due to the shortening effect of the primary post structures 630 caused by their deflection. As the surface 610 moves down towards the floor 601 , the secondary column structure 660 also moves down towards the floor 601 . If the load L is large enough, the ends 664 of the secondary post structure 660 will engage or contact the floor 601 , thereby actuating the secondary post structure 660 as a support member for the composite tile 600 . Due to their structural configuration, the secondary column structures 660 serve as additional support for the response of the composite brick 600 to the load L. The secondary column structure 660 is also designed to support the primary column structure 630 up to a predetermined threshold. It should be particularly noted that the secondary column structure 660 is able to control or limit the deflection of the primary column structure 630 and support the composite brick 600 and the primary column structure 630 under a sufficient given load L by contacting the floor 601 . In other words, the secondary post structure 660 acts as an additional support member for the composite tile 600 under loads large enough to deflect the primary post structure 630 and cause the secondary post structure 660 to contact the floor 601 . In one exemplary embodiment, breaching the primary load threshold of 160 psi and above will deflect the primary column structure 630 enough to cause the secondary column structure 660 to move and contact the floor. Of course, the present invention is not limited thereto. Depending on, inter alia, the structure, configuration, post structure pattern and/or material composition of the composite brick, a primary load threshold that deflects the primary post structure sufficiently to cause the secondary post structure to actuate and move to contact the floor may be predetermined and may Set the primary load threshold to any desired limit. Preferably, the main load threshold is between 100 and 300 psi, as this is a reasonable range corresponding to the range of weights of the different individuals who may use the bricks and the forces on the bricks that may be caused by them.

Combination bricks also have secondary load thresholds. Loads below the secondary load threshold and above the primary load threshold define acceptable operating conditions that allow the composite brick to maintain function without deflection or deformation of the secondary column structure. This secondary load threshold is also predetermined and can be set to any desired limit. The secondary load threshold defines the load that the secondary column structure, together with the deflected column structure, can withstand without deflecting or deforming (eg, being crushed) thereby damaging the composite brick. Loads in excess of this secondary load threshold will deflect and/or deform the secondary column structure to some degree, some of which are acceptable without damaging the composite brick. In fact, the primary and secondary struts are elastically deformable up to a predetermined load. However, composite bricks also have a maximum load threshold. The maximum load threshold describes or limits the load that the composite brick can withstand without damage. Again, the maximum load threshold is predetermined and can be set to any desired limit. Exceeding this maximum load threshold can cause irreversible damage to the composite brick and inelastic deformation of the composite brick's primary and secondary columns (structure), surfaces and/or other critical components.

Under normal operating conditions, when the load L is removed, the ends 634 of the primary column structures 630 elastically retract to their original positions, thereby also causing the ends 644 of the secondary column structures 660 to disengage from the floor 601 and return to their normal, position does not work. In addition, the end portion 634 is capable of providing an upward spring force F due to its resilient properties in the case where the end portion 634 is in a deflected position under load. With this arrangement, end 634 contributes to shock absorption or "resilience" within the brick, thereby providing greater safety for those using combination brick 600 . They also provide extra bounce within the brick 600.

In this embodiment, as in the other embodiments, the end portion 634 can be resiliently deflected, while the upper portion 632 of the post structure 630 can have a substantially stationary or fixed position. Likewise, the upper portion 632 of each column structure 630 provides the necessary support for the brick 600 , while the end portion 634 provides the impact absorbing member for the composite brick 600 . Those of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate that the size and configuration of the ends 634 of the primary column structure 630 may vary depending on the intended use or the amount of controlled deflection or impact absorption required for activities performed on the modular block 600 . Additionally, the end portion 634 may also include a radial end face that facilitates sliding and lateral deflection of the end portion 634, as described above with reference to FIGS. 1-9. Additionally, the type of composite material used for the modular brick 600 is also a factor in (influencing) the size and configuration of the primary column structure 630 to provide the desired amount of deflection or impact absorption within the modular brick 600 .

In addition to those advantages already described, there are many other advantages of providing a secondary column structure for a composite brick as taught herein. The secondary column structures and their ability to control the deflection of the primary column structure are also used to give the composite bricks a controlled impact-absorbing performance, meaning that the composite bricks have an enhanced ability to "give back" when subjected to an applied load. )".

Another advantage is the increased elasticity or resilience of the composite bricks compared to prior art composite bricks. By limiting the deflection of the primary column structures under a prescribed load, the primary column structures are able to spring back substantially to their original position when the load is removed. This also serves to provide greater ball rebound performance and, to a limited extent, assists individual jumping.

Another advantage of having a composite brick with a skewed primary column structure and controlling or limiting the deflection of the primary column structure through a secondary column structure is the improved surface feel of the composite brick. Due to the controlled deflection, the brick is less rigid and feels less rigid. Unlike related combination bricks present in the art, the "elasticity" within the brick results in less and/or absorbed impact forces, thereby reducing damage to persons using the combination brick array.

It should be pointed out and emphasized here that the features and elements of the various embodiments discussed above are interrelated in such a way that any one or more elements of any one or more embodiments can be incorporated into any other embodiment. Accordingly, the invention is not limited to the brick embodiments specifically discussed and shown in the drawings.

The foregoing detailed description describes the invention with reference to specific exemplary embodiments. It will however be understood that various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims. The detailed description and drawings are to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive, and all such variations or modifications, if any, are intended to fall within the scope of the invention as illustrated and illustrated herein.

More specifically, although illustrative exemplary embodiments of the present invention have been described herein, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments but includes modifications, omissions, Any and all embodiments are combinations (eg, combinations of different aspects from different embodiments), improvements and/or changes. Limitations in the claims are to be interpreted broadly based on the language used in the claims and not limited to the examples described in the foregoing detailed description or in the practice of the application, which examples are to be construed as non-limiting. For example, in the present disclosure, the term "preferably" is non-restrictive and means "preferably, but not limited to". The steps recited in any method or process claims may be performed in any order and are not limited to the order recited in the claims. A means-plus-function or step-plus-function limitation is only used if, for a particular claim limitation, all of the following conditions are present in the limitation: a) clearly states "for... means for" or "step for"; b) clearly recites the corresponding function; and c) clearly recites the structure, material, or action supporting the structure. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is to be determined only by the appended claims and their legal equivalents, rather than by the description and examples given above.

Claims (29)

1. brick that is used for above the floor forming floor covering, described brick comprises:

End face with periphery, described periphery limits the sidewall that extends from described end face downwards; With

The bottom side relative with described end face; With

The extended rod structure array from described bottom side, at least some described rod structures comprise that at least one has the elastic ends of radial end face, and this radial end face is located to help the controlled deflection of described rod structure near the floor.

2. brick according to claim 1 is characterized in that, described at least one elastic ends when load when above rod structure, putting on end face near floor deflection flexibly.

3. brick according to claim 1 is characterized in that, described at least one elastic ends near the floor flexibly deflection so that elastic force upwards to be provided.

4. brick according to claim 1 is characterized in that, described radial end face laterally slides and deflection described at least one elastic ends when load puts on end face above described at least one end.

5. brick according to claim 1 is characterized in that, described at least one elastic ends is dangled the sidewall of brick above the floor.

6. brick according to claim 1 is characterized in that, described at least one elastic ends is extended from the top of rod structure, and the end face of brick is extended and is used to support on this top from the bottom side of brick.

7. brick according to claim 1 is characterized in that, described at least one elastic ends includes and helps this at least one elastic ends along the two-way direction structural approach of deflection flexibly.

8. brick according to claim 7 is characterized in that, the structural approach of described at least one elastic ends in the rod structure array is replacing between the first two-way direction and the second two-way direction between the rod structure of each adjacent layout.

9. brick according to claim 7 is characterized in that, alternately, the described first two-way direction is transverse to the described second two-way direction between the first two-way direction and the second two-way direction for the structural approach of described at least one elastic ends of adjacent post structure.

10. brick according to claim 1 is characterized in that, described at least one elastic ends has elongated width to help this at least one elastic ends along two-way direction deflection flexibly.

11. brick according to claim 1 is characterized in that, described at least one elastic ends comprises two ends of extending from each rod structure downwards.

12. brick according to claim 1 is characterized in that, described at least one elastic ends comprises and being used for when load tapered end of deflection flexibly when putting on end face above pillar construction.

13. brick according to claim 1 is characterized in that, described at least one elastic ends comprises and being used for when load protuberance of deflection flexibly when putting on end face above pillar construction.

14. brick according to claim 1 is characterized in that, described sidewall has other bricks that are used for being adjacent together and connects to form the connection part of composite floor coating.

15. brick according to claim 1 is characterized in that, described bottom side comprises the supporting grid.

16. a brick that is used for forming floor covering above the floor, described brick comprises:

Be used to receive end face with distribution load;

Extend and limit the sidewall of the periphery of described brick downwards from described end face;

The bottom side relative with described end face;

Extend downwards from described bottom side and spread all over a plurality of main rod structure that described bottom side is arranged, described main rod structure comprises that at least one contacts with described floor and helps described main rod structure load-responsive and end that controlled deflection takes place; With

Also extend downwards from described bottom side and with the isolated a plurality of less important rod structures of described main rod structure, described less important rod structure comprises the end that at least one contacts described ground and support described end face when described main rod structure generation deflection.

17. brick according to claim 16 is characterized in that, described sidewall comprises and is used for connecting to form the connection part of composite floor coating with other bricks that are adjacent.

18. brick according to claim 16 is characterized in that, described main rod structure and less important rod structure spread all over described sole arrangement according to predetermined pattern.

19. brick according to claim 16 is characterized in that, when described load surpassed predetermined main load threshold value, described less important rod structure activated and moves to contact described floor.

20. brick according to claim 19 is characterized in that, described predetermined main load threshold value is per square inch between 100 pounds to 300 pounds.

21. brick according to claim 19, it is characterized in that, greater than described less important rod structure, the end of described less important rod structure is positioned at the top on described floor to described main rod structure when load is lower than described main load threshold value from the extended distance in described bottom surface.

22. brick according to claim 16 is characterized in that, described less important rod structure is used to control and limit the deflection of described main rod structure when activating.

23. brick according to claim 16 is characterized in that, the described end of described main rod structure also comprises and is used to make described end laterally to slide in response to described load and the radial end face of deflection.

24. brick according to claim 16 is characterized in that, at least one in the described main rod structure comprises the end, and this end has and helps node configuration and the orientation of described at least one end along two-way direction deflection.

25. brick according to claim 16 is characterized in that, described bottom surface comprises the supporting grid that is used for the described end face of supporting above described floor.

26. brick according to claim 16 is characterized in that, described bottom surface comprises flat surface.

27. brick according to claim 16 is characterized in that, described main rod structure and less important rod structure are to be provided with according to the layout that is selected from the group that comprises patterned arrangement, random arrangement and layered arrangement.

28. a brick that is used for forming floor covering above the floor, described brick comprises:

Surface configuration;

At least one extends and has a main rod structure with contacted end, described floor from described surface configuration; With

At least one extends and has the less important rod structure of the end that is positioned at top, described floor from described surface configuration, and described less important rod structure is used in described main rod structure response applied load and moves and contact described ground during deflection.

29. a manufacturing is used for forming the method for the brick of floor covering above the floor, described method comprises:

Brick is provided, and this brick has end face, bottom surface and extends side with the periphery that forms described brick downwards from described end face;

Spread all over described bottom side and arrange a plurality of main rod structures, described main rod structure comprises that at least one contacts with described floor and helps described main rod structure load-responsive and end that controlled deflection takes place; With

Make a plurality of less important rod structures and described main rod structure spaced apart, described less important rod structure comprises the end that at least one contacts described ground and support described end face when described deflection takes place described main rod structure.

Images