CA3025337A1 - Artificial turf - Google Patents
Artificial turf Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA3025337A1 CA3025337A1 CA3025337A CA3025337A CA3025337A1 CA 3025337 A1 CA3025337 A1 CA 3025337A1 CA 3025337 A CA3025337 A CA 3025337A CA 3025337 A CA3025337 A CA 3025337A CA 3025337 A1 CA3025337 A1 CA 3025337A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- fibers
- synthetic grass
- artificial turf
- grass fibers
- synthetic
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 239000000835 fiber Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 139
- 244000025254 Cannabis sativa Species 0.000 claims abstract description 112
- 229920002994 synthetic fiber Polymers 0.000 claims description 21
- 239000004577 thatch Substances 0.000 claims description 10
- 239000012209 synthetic fiber Substances 0.000 claims description 8
- 235000019642 color hue Nutrition 0.000 claims description 5
- 229920000092 linear low density polyethylene Polymers 0.000 description 4
- 239000004707 linear low-density polyethylene Substances 0.000 description 4
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 4
- 239000004743 Polypropylene Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 description 3
- -1 polypropylene Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 229920001155 polypropylene Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 235000008733 Citrus aurantifolia Nutrition 0.000 description 2
- 240000007817 Olea europaea Species 0.000 description 2
- 239000004952 Polyamide Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000004698 Polyethylene Substances 0.000 description 2
- 235000011941 Tilia x europaea Nutrition 0.000 description 2
- 150000001875 compounds Chemical class 0.000 description 2
- 229910003460 diamond Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 239000010432 diamond Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000004700 high-density polyethylene Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000004571 lime Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920001684 low density polyethylene Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000004702 low-density polyethylene Substances 0.000 description 2
- 210000005036 nerve Anatomy 0.000 description 2
- 229920002647 polyamide Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 229920000728 polyester Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 229920000573 polyethylene Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000000758 substrate Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000009732 tufting Methods 0.000 description 2
- 240000003483 Leersia hexandra Species 0.000 description 1
- 229920010126 Linear Low Density Polyethylene (LLDPE) Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 238000010521 absorption reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000654 additive Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000003086 colorant Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000004069 differentiation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000000945 filler Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000003063 flame retardant Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920001903 high density polyethylene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004816 latex Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920000126 latex Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920004889 linear high-density polyethylene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000006224 matting agent Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000003381 stabilizer Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920001169 thermoplastic Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004416 thermosoftening plastic Substances 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E01—CONSTRUCTION OF ROADS, RAILWAYS, OR BRIDGES
- E01C—CONSTRUCTION OF, OR SURFACES FOR, ROADS, SPORTS GROUNDS, OR THE LIKE; MACHINES OR AUXILIARY TOOLS FOR CONSTRUCTION OR REPAIR
- E01C13/00—Pavings or foundations specially adapted for playgrounds or sports grounds; Drainage, irrigation or heating of sports grounds
- E01C13/08—Surfaces simulating grass ; Grass-grown sports grounds
-
- D—TEXTILES; PAPER
- D05—SEWING; EMBROIDERING; TUFTING
- D05C—EMBROIDERING; TUFTING
- D05C15/00—Making pile fabrics or articles having similar surface features by inserting loops into a base material
- D05C15/04—Tufting
- D05C15/08—Tufting machines
- D05C15/10—Tufting machines operating with a plurality of needles, e.g. in one row
- D05C15/12—Tufting machines operating with a plurality of needles, e.g. in one row in more than one row
-
- D—TEXTILES; PAPER
- D05—SEWING; EMBROIDERING; TUFTING
- D05C—EMBROIDERING; TUFTING
- D05C15/00—Making pile fabrics or articles having similar surface features by inserting loops into a base material
- D05C15/04—Tufting
- D05C15/08—Tufting machines
- D05C15/16—Arrangements or devices for manipulating threads
- D05C15/22—Loop-catching arrangements, e.g. loopers; Driving mechanisms therefor
-
- D—TEXTILES; PAPER
- D10—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBLASSES OF SECTION D, RELATING TO TEXTILES
- D10B—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBLASSES OF SECTION D, RELATING TO TEXTILES
- D10B2505/00—Industrial
- D10B2505/20—Industrial for civil engineering, e.g. geotextiles
- D10B2505/202—Artificial grass
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Materials Engineering (AREA)
- Textile Engineering (AREA)
- Architecture (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Road Paving Structures (AREA)
Abstract
Artificial turf (100) comprising a. a backing (200) having an upper and a lower surface; and b. a plurality of first synthetic grass fibers (300) attached to and extending upward from the upper surface of said backing; and c. a plurality of second synthetic grass fibers (400) attached to and extending upward from the upper surface of said backing; wherein the height of the first synthetic grass fibers is higher than the height of the second synthetic grass fibers.
Description
ARTIFICIAL TURF
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates to artificial turf, in particular for landscaping.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Artificial turf is a surface of synthetic fibers made to look like natural grass. It is often used as a sportsfield, a playground, a residential lawn or for landscaping purposes.
Artificial turf comes in various qualities, from low-end mats with limited quality to high-end mats with a more natural look or improved comfort and quality for sports.
The cheapest qualities typically are low-pile mats wherein the synthetic fibers are flat-shaped tapes. These mats have a reduced lifetime and beyond the fact that they are green, do not resemble real grass.
The high-end qualities come in different forms, depending on the use of the mats. For sports, the mats are configured to provide sufficient comfort (shock-absorption), resiliency and elasticity (e.g. for good ball bouncing effect), and may comprise infills.
Professional sports-turf is moreover bound to specific requirements, set by sports federations such as FIFA. For residential lawns and landscape, the requirements are somewhat different, with the biggest requirement that they look like natural grass.
Despite the many efforts to make artificial turf look more natural, there is still a need for further improvement.
It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide artificial turf that looks more natural than artificial turf available today.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide high-pile natural-looking grass that can be made in an economical way.
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates to artificial turf, in particular for landscaping.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Artificial turf is a surface of synthetic fibers made to look like natural grass. It is often used as a sportsfield, a playground, a residential lawn or for landscaping purposes.
Artificial turf comes in various qualities, from low-end mats with limited quality to high-end mats with a more natural look or improved comfort and quality for sports.
The cheapest qualities typically are low-pile mats wherein the synthetic fibers are flat-shaped tapes. These mats have a reduced lifetime and beyond the fact that they are green, do not resemble real grass.
The high-end qualities come in different forms, depending on the use of the mats. For sports, the mats are configured to provide sufficient comfort (shock-absorption), resiliency and elasticity (e.g. for good ball bouncing effect), and may comprise infills.
Professional sports-turf is moreover bound to specific requirements, set by sports federations such as FIFA. For residential lawns and landscape, the requirements are somewhat different, with the biggest requirement that they look like natural grass.
Despite the many efforts to make artificial turf look more natural, there is still a need for further improvement.
It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide artificial turf that looks more natural than artificial turf available today.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide high-pile natural-looking grass that can be made in an economical way.
2 SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to artificial turf comprising a. a backing having an upper and a lower surface; and b. a plurality of first synthetic grass fibers attached to and extending upward from the upper surface of said backing; and c. a plurality of second synthetic grass fibers attached to and extending upward from the upper surface of said backing;
characterised in that the height of the first synthetic grass fibers is higher than the height of the second synthetic grass fibers.
DRAWINGS
Fig 1 shows an artificial turf (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention, comprising a backing (200), a plurality of first synthetic grass fibers (300), and a plurality of second synthetic grass fibers (400). The first synthetic grass fibers (300) are longer than the second synthetic grass fibers (400).
Fig. 2 shows an another embodiment of an artificial turf (100) of the present invention, comprising thatch yarns (500).
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Artificial turf according to the present invention comprises a backing. The term "backing"
as used herein refers to a substrate, preferably a thermoplastic substrate, which can be woven or nonwoven. The backing has an upper and a lower surface, and the backing is configured for supporting synthetic grass fibers.
The term "synthetic grass fibers" as used herein, refers to elongated objects which are attached to the backing. When attached to the backing, the synthetic grass fibers protrude from the upper surface of the backing, and form the grass surface.
Synthetic grass fibers include synthetic extruded fibers (monofilaments) and (slit-film) tapes.
The present invention relates to artificial turf comprising a. a backing having an upper and a lower surface; and b. a plurality of first synthetic grass fibers attached to and extending upward from the upper surface of said backing; and c. a plurality of second synthetic grass fibers attached to and extending upward from the upper surface of said backing;
characterised in that the height of the first synthetic grass fibers is higher than the height of the second synthetic grass fibers.
DRAWINGS
Fig 1 shows an artificial turf (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention, comprising a backing (200), a plurality of first synthetic grass fibers (300), and a plurality of second synthetic grass fibers (400). The first synthetic grass fibers (300) are longer than the second synthetic grass fibers (400).
Fig. 2 shows an another embodiment of an artificial turf (100) of the present invention, comprising thatch yarns (500).
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Artificial turf according to the present invention comprises a backing. The term "backing"
as used herein refers to a substrate, preferably a thermoplastic substrate, which can be woven or nonwoven. The backing has an upper and a lower surface, and the backing is configured for supporting synthetic grass fibers.
The term "synthetic grass fibers" as used herein, refers to elongated objects which are attached to the backing. When attached to the backing, the synthetic grass fibers protrude from the upper surface of the backing, and form the grass surface.
Synthetic grass fibers include synthetic extruded fibers (monofilaments) and (slit-film) tapes.
3 Preferably, the artificial fibers are arranged in bundles, preferably in bundles of monofilaments. The synthetic grass fibers preferably have a dtex from 250-2500, and one bundle may contain 4 to 20 fibers.
The synthetic grass fibers are manufactured from materials chosen from the list comprising polypropylene (PP); any variant of polyethylene (PE) including low density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), and high density polyethylene (HDPE)); polyester (PET); and polyamide (PA). Preferably, the synthetic grass fibers are manufactured from LLDPE to provide more softness and improved resiliency.
io The synthetic grass fibers used in the artificial turf of the present invention may further comprise additives selected from, but not limited to, the group of infrared reflectants, UV
stabilisers, fire-retardants, matting agents, luminescent compounds (phosphorescent or fluorescent compounds), fillers (e.g. chalk, talk).
The synthetic grass fibers may have a cross-section selected from, but not limited to, a rectangular, a diamond-shape, a round, an elliptical, a multilobal (Y, X), a C-shaped, a V-shaped, a W-shaped, a S-shaped or a 0-shaped cross-section, and have dimensions of e.g. 50-500 pm thickness and 0.5-5.0 mm width. The synthetic grass fibers may further comprise a backbone nerve, and/or a micro-textured surface to resemble grass blade nerves to further improve the resemblance to natural grass blades. The synthetic grass fibers are typically in a green colour e.g. a uni-colour or a mixed shade of green and other colours.
The synthetic grass fibers may be tufted or woven through the backing.
Preferably, the fibers are tufted through the backing. In some embodiments, the synthetic grass fibers may be formed in loop piles or cut piles. The synthetic grass fibers are preferably arranged in bundles of fibers. Typically, 6-10 and preferably 8 monofilaments are present per bundle.
The artificial turf of the present invention comprises first and second synthetic grass fibers which are attached to, and extend upward from the upper surface of the backing.
The synthetic grass fibers are manufactured from materials chosen from the list comprising polypropylene (PP); any variant of polyethylene (PE) including low density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), and high density polyethylene (HDPE)); polyester (PET); and polyamide (PA). Preferably, the synthetic grass fibers are manufactured from LLDPE to provide more softness and improved resiliency.
io The synthetic grass fibers used in the artificial turf of the present invention may further comprise additives selected from, but not limited to, the group of infrared reflectants, UV
stabilisers, fire-retardants, matting agents, luminescent compounds (phosphorescent or fluorescent compounds), fillers (e.g. chalk, talk).
The synthetic grass fibers may have a cross-section selected from, but not limited to, a rectangular, a diamond-shape, a round, an elliptical, a multilobal (Y, X), a C-shaped, a V-shaped, a W-shaped, a S-shaped or a 0-shaped cross-section, and have dimensions of e.g. 50-500 pm thickness and 0.5-5.0 mm width. The synthetic grass fibers may further comprise a backbone nerve, and/or a micro-textured surface to resemble grass blade nerves to further improve the resemblance to natural grass blades. The synthetic grass fibers are typically in a green colour e.g. a uni-colour or a mixed shade of green and other colours.
The synthetic grass fibers may be tufted or woven through the backing.
Preferably, the fibers are tufted through the backing. In some embodiments, the synthetic grass fibers may be formed in loop piles or cut piles. The synthetic grass fibers are preferably arranged in bundles of fibers. Typically, 6-10 and preferably 8 monofilaments are present per bundle.
The artificial turf of the present invention comprises first and second synthetic grass fibers which are attached to, and extend upward from the upper surface of the backing.
4 The height of the plurality of first synthetic grass fibers is higher than the height of the plurality of second synthetic grass fibers. Preferably, the average difference between the height of the plurality of first and second synthetic grass fibers is at least 6 mm, in some embodiments at least 10 mm, but typically less than 20 mm (but greater height differences are not excluded). The first synthetic grass fibers preferably have a height from 20 mm to 80 mm. The height of the second synthetic grass fibers is preferably from 10 mm to 70 mm. The height is determined from the upper surface of the backing to the top of the extended fibers, in a normal state of the turf. As there may be some variation in height between individual fibers, the height of the first and second synthetic io grass fibers can be determined by taking the average height of 10 of each of the first and second fibers of the turf.
Various height combinations for first and second artificial fibers are possible, some of which are described hereinafter.
In one embodiment, the artificial turf is a high-pile turf and comprises first artificial fibers having a height from 35 mm to 80 mm, and second artificial fibers having a height from mm to 65 mm. The difference in height between first and second synthetic grass fibers is at least 6 mm, but is preferably at least 10 mm. This embodiment is a very economical way of creating a high-pile carpet, yet using a lot less material.
In another embodiment, the artificial turf is a low-to-mid pile turf and comprises first 20 artificial fibers having a height from 20 mm to 40 mm, and wherein the second artificial fibers have a height from 10 mm to 34 mm. The difference in height between first and second synthetic grass fibers is at least 6 mm, and for a low-to-mid pile turf the difference in height is preferably not more than 10 mm.
In yet another embodiment, the artificial turf has first artificial fibers and second artificial 25 fibers having a more extreme height difference. For example the first artificial fibers may have a height from 50-80mm or even 60-80mm, while the second artificial fibers have a height from 10-30mm, or even 10-20mm.
In some embodiments, the artificial turf may further comprise a plurality of third, or even fourth, synthetic grass fibers, wherein the height of the plurality of third and/or fourth synthetic grass fibers lies in-between the heights of the first and second synthetic grass fibers. The use of third and/or fourth synthetic grass fibers would further improve the natural look of the artificial grass. The third and fourth synthetic grass fibers may have an average height difference versus the first and second synthetic grass fibers,
Various height combinations for first and second artificial fibers are possible, some of which are described hereinafter.
In one embodiment, the artificial turf is a high-pile turf and comprises first artificial fibers having a height from 35 mm to 80 mm, and second artificial fibers having a height from mm to 65 mm. The difference in height between first and second synthetic grass fibers is at least 6 mm, but is preferably at least 10 mm. This embodiment is a very economical way of creating a high-pile carpet, yet using a lot less material.
In another embodiment, the artificial turf is a low-to-mid pile turf and comprises first 20 artificial fibers having a height from 20 mm to 40 mm, and wherein the second artificial fibers have a height from 10 mm to 34 mm. The difference in height between first and second synthetic grass fibers is at least 6 mm, and for a low-to-mid pile turf the difference in height is preferably not more than 10 mm.
In yet another embodiment, the artificial turf has first artificial fibers and second artificial 25 fibers having a more extreme height difference. For example the first artificial fibers may have a height from 50-80mm or even 60-80mm, while the second artificial fibers have a height from 10-30mm, or even 10-20mm.
In some embodiments, the artificial turf may further comprise a plurality of third, or even fourth, synthetic grass fibers, wherein the height of the plurality of third and/or fourth synthetic grass fibers lies in-between the heights of the first and second synthetic grass fibers. The use of third and/or fourth synthetic grass fibers would further improve the natural look of the artificial grass. The third and fourth synthetic grass fibers may have an average height difference versus the first and second synthetic grass fibers,
5 respectively, of 3-10 mm.
The higher, first (and optional third) synthetic grass fibers are preferably monofilaments as these are most prominently visible and more resemble real grass blades.
This may be less of importance for the lower, second (and optional fourth) synthetic grass fibers as these are less visible to the human eye. The selection of the lower synthetic grass io fibers may further depend on other aspects, such as providing support to the higher artificial grass fibers. However, in a highly preferred embodiment, all synthetic grass fibers of the artificial turf of the present invention are monofilaments.
In a preferred embodiment, at least the first (and optional third) synthetic grass fibers, and more preferably all synthetic grass fibers of the artificial turf of the present invention, are upright-oriented cut-pile fibers, and even more preferably, the synthetic grass fibers are arranged in bundles of synthetic grass fibers.
The first, second and optional third or fourth, synthetic grass fibers may be the same in composition, shape, cross-section, resiliency, colour, and/or colour hue.
However, to improve the natural look and feel of the artificial turf, the various first, second, and optional third and fourth synthetic grass fibers may be different in composition, shape, cross-section, resiliency, colour, and/or colour hue. Even more preferably, within one bundle of artificial grass fibers, fibers with different properties may be combined. For example, synthetic grass fibers with a different composition, cross-section, colour and/or colour hue are present in a given bundle of fibers. In one embodiment, the synthetic grass fibers may be totally randomized within a given bundle of fibers. For example, synthetic grass fibers may be used which have an irregularly-shaped cross-section along their length, as described in co-pending European patent application n 15202837.9, entitled "Artificial Turf Monofilaments".
The higher, first (and optional third) synthetic grass fibers are preferably monofilaments as these are most prominently visible and more resemble real grass blades.
This may be less of importance for the lower, second (and optional fourth) synthetic grass fibers as these are less visible to the human eye. The selection of the lower synthetic grass io fibers may further depend on other aspects, such as providing support to the higher artificial grass fibers. However, in a highly preferred embodiment, all synthetic grass fibers of the artificial turf of the present invention are monofilaments.
In a preferred embodiment, at least the first (and optional third) synthetic grass fibers, and more preferably all synthetic grass fibers of the artificial turf of the present invention, are upright-oriented cut-pile fibers, and even more preferably, the synthetic grass fibers are arranged in bundles of synthetic grass fibers.
The first, second and optional third or fourth, synthetic grass fibers may be the same in composition, shape, cross-section, resiliency, colour, and/or colour hue.
However, to improve the natural look and feel of the artificial turf, the various first, second, and optional third and fourth synthetic grass fibers may be different in composition, shape, cross-section, resiliency, colour, and/or colour hue. Even more preferably, within one bundle of artificial grass fibers, fibers with different properties may be combined. For example, synthetic grass fibers with a different composition, cross-section, colour and/or colour hue are present in a given bundle of fibers. In one embodiment, the synthetic grass fibers may be totally randomized within a given bundle of fibers. For example, synthetic grass fibers may be used which have an irregularly-shaped cross-section along their length, as described in co-pending European patent application n 15202837.9, entitled "Artificial Turf Monofilaments".
6 In preferred embodiments of the artificial grass of the present invention, variations between the high (first and optionally third) and the low (second and optionally fourth) artificial grass fibers may be present:
- resiliency: low fibers are preferably more resilient than high fibers.
The low fibers will better support the high fibers.
- shape: high fibers preferably have a cross-section which resembles more the natural grass fibers, for example diamond-, S- or V-shape.
- dtex: low fibers preferably have a lower dtex than high fibers.
- colour: through colour variations, the age of artificial turf can be created. For lo example, low fibers may be lighter, resembling young growing grass leaves. In another example, the low fibers may be darker resembling older cut grass leaves.
Preferably, high fibers are lime green and low fibers are olive green.
The synthetic grass fibers are preferably arranged as bundles of fibers. The first, second, and optional third or fourth, synthetic grass fibers are preferably arranged in separate rows. For each type of fibers (first, second, optional third and fourth), a separate bar is used with x number of positions along the width of the turf, to insert the fibers through the backing. During production, the respective bars and thus the resulting rows of fibers are perpendicular to the machine direction.
In one embodiment, rows of first (high "H") artificial fibers are alternated with rows of second (low "L") synthetic grass fibers. This leads to a LHLHLHLH...
arrangement.
However, in a more preferred embodiment, the rows of first and second synthetic grass fibers are arranged in a more random pattern, to further improve the natural look of the artificial turf. This leads to arrangements such as e.g. LLLHHLHHHLLLHLLHHL...
In this more random arrangement, it is however highly preferred that there is at least one row of first synthetic grass fibers after not more than 3, and preferably not more than 2, rows of second synthetic grass fibers, to prevent unwanted stripes to be visually present.
Overall, it is preferred that there are more rows of lower height fibers. This has the additional advantage that an artificial turf can be created with good natural look while using less material.
- resiliency: low fibers are preferably more resilient than high fibers.
The low fibers will better support the high fibers.
- shape: high fibers preferably have a cross-section which resembles more the natural grass fibers, for example diamond-, S- or V-shape.
- dtex: low fibers preferably have a lower dtex than high fibers.
- colour: through colour variations, the age of artificial turf can be created. For lo example, low fibers may be lighter, resembling young growing grass leaves. In another example, the low fibers may be darker resembling older cut grass leaves.
Preferably, high fibers are lime green and low fibers are olive green.
The synthetic grass fibers are preferably arranged as bundles of fibers. The first, second, and optional third or fourth, synthetic grass fibers are preferably arranged in separate rows. For each type of fibers (first, second, optional third and fourth), a separate bar is used with x number of positions along the width of the turf, to insert the fibers through the backing. During production, the respective bars and thus the resulting rows of fibers are perpendicular to the machine direction.
In one embodiment, rows of first (high "H") artificial fibers are alternated with rows of second (low "L") synthetic grass fibers. This leads to a LHLHLHLH...
arrangement.
However, in a more preferred embodiment, the rows of first and second synthetic grass fibers are arranged in a more random pattern, to further improve the natural look of the artificial turf. This leads to arrangements such as e.g. LLLHHLHHHLLLHLLHHL...
In this more random arrangement, it is however highly preferred that there is at least one row of first synthetic grass fibers after not more than 3, and preferably not more than 2, rows of second synthetic grass fibers, to prevent unwanted stripes to be visually present.
Overall, it is preferred that there are more rows of lower height fibers. This has the additional advantage that an artificial turf can be created with good natural look while using less material.
7 Accordingly, in some preferred embodiments, rows of first and second synthetic grass fibers are arranged in a random pattern, with the provision that a row of first synthetic fibers is present after not more than 3 rows of second synthetic grass fibers.
Preferably, the distance between fibers or between bundles of fibers in a given row (stitches) is from 6-32, preferably from 10-18, per 10cm. The distance between consecutive rows of fibers (gauge) is preferably 3/4, 3/8, 3/16 or 5/16 inch.
In other embodiments, it may be envisaged to omit (by not tufting fibers) certain positions in a given row, especially for the high artificial fibers.
Alternatively, it may be envisaged to tuft the high fibers only at selected positions by means of computer io controlling (randomizer). This would lead to differentiation/randomisation of the artificial turf also in the cross-machine direction, thereby further improving the natural look of the turf. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the first synthetic grass fibers are randomly tufted across the artificial turf.
In another embodiment, an artificial turf is created with alternating areas of dark and light green fibers, as is typically present on sports fields. This can be effected by tufting rows of dark green first grass synthetic fibers, alternated with rows of lighter green synthetic grass fibers.
In a further embodiment, the artificial turf of the present invention may comprise thatch yarns, which extend upward from the upper surface of the backing. Thatch yarns are made of monofilaments or slit film tapes which have been textured (curled), and simulate grass roots or moss. Preferably, thatch yarns are inserted together with other fibers in a given bundle of fibers. As such, they are not present as separate rows between the rows of synthetic grass fibers. Preferably, the thatch yarns are incorporated in the bundles of the lowest synthetic grass fibers, i.e. the bundles of second synthetic grass fibers. Preferably, thatch yarns are inserted in random bundles of synthetic grass fibers, or only in certain areas of the turf In some embodiments, the artificial turf of the present invention is provided on a roll for installation. In some embodiments, the width of the artificial turf is from at least 2 m to at most 4 m and the length of the artificial turf is from at least 10 m to at most 30 m.
Preferably, the distance between fibers or between bundles of fibers in a given row (stitches) is from 6-32, preferably from 10-18, per 10cm. The distance between consecutive rows of fibers (gauge) is preferably 3/4, 3/8, 3/16 or 5/16 inch.
In other embodiments, it may be envisaged to omit (by not tufting fibers) certain positions in a given row, especially for the high artificial fibers.
Alternatively, it may be envisaged to tuft the high fibers only at selected positions by means of computer io controlling (randomizer). This would lead to differentiation/randomisation of the artificial turf also in the cross-machine direction, thereby further improving the natural look of the turf. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the first synthetic grass fibers are randomly tufted across the artificial turf.
In another embodiment, an artificial turf is created with alternating areas of dark and light green fibers, as is typically present on sports fields. This can be effected by tufting rows of dark green first grass synthetic fibers, alternated with rows of lighter green synthetic grass fibers.
In a further embodiment, the artificial turf of the present invention may comprise thatch yarns, which extend upward from the upper surface of the backing. Thatch yarns are made of monofilaments or slit film tapes which have been textured (curled), and simulate grass roots or moss. Preferably, thatch yarns are inserted together with other fibers in a given bundle of fibers. As such, they are not present as separate rows between the rows of synthetic grass fibers. Preferably, the thatch yarns are incorporated in the bundles of the lowest synthetic grass fibers, i.e. the bundles of second synthetic grass fibers. Preferably, thatch yarns are inserted in random bundles of synthetic grass fibers, or only in certain areas of the turf In some embodiments, the artificial turf of the present invention is provided on a roll for installation. In some embodiments, the width of the artificial turf is from at least 2 m to at most 4 m and the length of the artificial turf is from at least 10 m to at most 30 m.
8 Alternatively, the artificial turf may be provided in the form of tiles for installation, which may comprise interlocking pieces. The interlocking means may be part of a backing onto which the artificial turf is attached.
In some embodiments, the artificial turf may further comprise additional backing layers (attached to the lower surface of the backing, to protect the synthetic grass fiber attachments) and/or a cushioning layer for improved walking comfort. The backing and additional backing layers may be translucent or transparent, and may be combined with one or more light sources which may be integrated in-between backing layers or positioned underneath the backing layers. This would allow to create artificial turf which during the day would resemble real grass, but also allow aesthetic creations at night using light.
The artificial grass of the present invention is preferably used for residential lawn or landscaping purposes. However, other uses such as sportsfields and playgrounds may also be possible.
EXAMPLE
Artificial turfs according to the present invention are made according to the following parameters:
Fibers are tufted through a polypropylene woven backing and finished at the back side with a black latex to protect the tufts.
Example 1 Example 2 Example 3 Height first artificial 31 mm 35 mm 40 mm grass fiber Height second 18 mm 23 mm 28 mm artificial grass fibers Height thatch yarns 15 mm 18 mm 24 mm
In some embodiments, the artificial turf may further comprise additional backing layers (attached to the lower surface of the backing, to protect the synthetic grass fiber attachments) and/or a cushioning layer for improved walking comfort. The backing and additional backing layers may be translucent or transparent, and may be combined with one or more light sources which may be integrated in-between backing layers or positioned underneath the backing layers. This would allow to create artificial turf which during the day would resemble real grass, but also allow aesthetic creations at night using light.
The artificial grass of the present invention is preferably used for residential lawn or landscaping purposes. However, other uses such as sportsfields and playgrounds may also be possible.
EXAMPLE
Artificial turfs according to the present invention are made according to the following parameters:
Fibers are tufted through a polypropylene woven backing and finished at the back side with a black latex to protect the tufts.
Example 1 Example 2 Example 3 Height first artificial 31 mm 35 mm 40 mm grass fiber Height second 18 mm 23 mm 28 mm artificial grass fibers Height thatch yarns 15 mm 18 mm 24 mm
9 Properties of the fibers:
First artificial grass Second artificial Thatch yarns fibers grass fibers material LLDPE LLDPE LLDPE
cross-section diamond shape diamond shape rectangular shape colour Lime green Olive green Beige/Brown dtex 875 1050 625 Rows of first artificial fibers are alternated with rows of second artificial fibers with a gauge of 3/16".
Within a given row, fibers are arranged in bundles of fibers with 8 monofilaments per bundle and 120 stitches per 10 cm.
First artificial grass Second artificial Thatch yarns fibers grass fibers material LLDPE LLDPE LLDPE
cross-section diamond shape diamond shape rectangular shape colour Lime green Olive green Beige/Brown dtex 875 1050 625 Rows of first artificial fibers are alternated with rows of second artificial fibers with a gauge of 3/16".
Within a given row, fibers are arranged in bundles of fibers with 8 monofilaments per bundle and 120 stitches per 10 cm.
Claims (15)
1. Artificial turf comprising a. a backing having an upper and a lower surface; and b. a plurality of first synthetic grass fibers attached to and extending upward from the upper surface of said backing; and c. a plurality of second synthetic grass fibers attached to and extending upward from the upper surface of said backing;
characterised in that the height of the first synthetic grass fibers is higher than the height of the second synthetic grass fibers.
characterised in that the height of the first synthetic grass fibers is higher than the height of the second synthetic grass fibers.
2. Artificial turf according to claim 1, wherein the first synthetic grass fibers have a height from 20 mm to 80 mm.
3. Artificial turf according to claims 1-2, wherein the second synthetic grass fibers have a height from 10 mm to 70 mm.
4. Artificial turf according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the average height difference between the first and second synthetic fibers is at least 6 mm, preferably at least 10 mm.
5. Artificial turf according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said artificial turf comprises first synthetic grass fibers having a height from 35 mm to 80 mm and second synthetic grass fibers having a height from 25 mm to 65 mm, wherein the average height difference between the first and second synthetic grass fibers is at least 6 mm.
6. Artificial turf according to claims 1-4, wherein said artificial turf comprises first synthetic grass fibers having a height from 20 mm to 40 mm and second synthetic grass fibers having a height from 10 mm to 34 mm, wherein the average height difference between the first and second synthetic grass fibers is at least 6 mm.
7. Artificial turf according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said synthetic grass fibers are upright oriented cut-pile fibers.
8. Artificial turf according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the respective synthetic grass fibers are arranged in bundles of synthetic grass fibers.
9. Artificial turf according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first and second synthetic grass fibers are arranged in different rows.
10. Artificial turf according to claim 9, wherein rows of first and second synthetic grass fibers are arranged in a random pattern, with the provision that a row of first synthetic fibers is present after not more than 3 rows of second synthetic grass fibers.
11. Artificial turf according to claims 9-10, wherein the first synthetic grass fibers are randomly tufted across the artificial turf.
12. Artificial turf according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first and second synthetic fibers have a different cross-section, colour, colour hue, dtex, resiliency or any combination thereof.
13. Artificial turf according to claims 8-12, wherein the synthetic fibers within a given bundle of fibers, have a different cross-section, colour, colour hue, dtex, resiliency or any combination thereof.
14. Artificial turf system according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising thatch yarns, said thatch yarns preferably being present in the bundles of second synthetic grass fibers.
15. Artificial turf according to any of the preceding claims, in the form of tiles preferably comprising interlocking means.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP16174026.1 | 2016-06-10 | ||
EP16174026 | 2016-06-10 | ||
PCT/EP2017/064013 WO2017211981A1 (en) | 2016-06-10 | 2017-06-08 | Artificial turf |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
CA3025337A1 true CA3025337A1 (en) | 2017-12-14 |
Family
ID=56119381
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
CA3025337A Abandoned CA3025337A1 (en) | 2016-06-10 | 2017-06-08 | Artificial turf |
Country Status (5)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20190145057A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP3469142B1 (en) |
CA (1) | CA3025337A1 (en) |
PT (1) | PT3469142T (en) |
WO (1) | WO2017211981A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CN107429493B (en) * | 2015-01-16 | 2020-10-30 | Bfs欧洲股份有限公司 | Fire-proof artificial lawn |
EP3235930A1 (en) * | 2016-04-18 | 2017-10-25 | Polytex Sportbeläge Produktions-GmbH | Artificial turf fiber with lldpe and ldpe |
CN107190617A (en) | 2017-06-30 | 2017-09-22 | 青岛青禾人造草坪股份有限公司 | The chinampa of imitative natural grass |
EP3660208A1 (en) * | 2018-11-28 | 2020-06-03 | Advanced Polymer Technology Corp. | Artificial turf with opaque face yarn and translucent thatch yarn fibers |
CN113260744A (en) | 2019-01-03 | 2021-08-13 | 陶氏环球技术有限责任公司 | Artificial turf grass with natural appearance |
USD945310S1 (en) | 2019-12-20 | 2022-03-08 | Go Green Synthetic Lawn Solutions, Llc | Turf fiber |
USD962817S1 (en) | 2019-12-20 | 2022-09-06 | Go Green Synthetic Lawn Solutions, Llc | Turf fiber |
NL2028913B1 (en) * | 2021-08-03 | 2023-02-17 | Recreational Systems Int B V | Fully recyclable artificial grass |
Family Cites Families (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
ITMI20050037A1 (en) * | 2005-01-14 | 2006-07-15 | Italgreen S P A | CARPET IN PARTICULAR FOR SYNTHETIC HERBOSIAN COATS STRUCTURE OF SYNTHETIC HERBAL COAT INCLUDING THE CARPET AND METHOD AND MANUFACTURING EQUIPMENT FOR THE CARPET |
US20070237921A1 (en) * | 2006-04-10 | 2007-10-11 | Knapp Timothy A | Woven artificial turf |
GB201020678D0 (en) * | 2010-12-07 | 2011-01-19 | Connell Christopher A O | A 'dry' snowsports slope surface |
ES2582466T3 (en) * | 2012-05-15 | 2016-09-13 | Tiara-Teppichboden Ag | Artificial grass lining |
EP2894256A1 (en) * | 2014-01-09 | 2015-07-15 | Green Vision Co. Ltd. | Artificial turf system |
FI127037B (en) * | 2014-08-13 | 2017-10-13 | Hannu Salmenautio | Artificial grass with non-granular filling material |
-
2017
- 2017-06-08 WO PCT/EP2017/064013 patent/WO2017211981A1/en unknown
- 2017-06-08 PT PT177320439T patent/PT3469142T/en unknown
- 2017-06-08 CA CA3025337A patent/CA3025337A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2017-06-08 US US16/306,701 patent/US20190145057A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2017-06-08 EP EP17732043.9A patent/EP3469142B1/en active Active
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2017211981A1 (en) | 2017-12-14 |
US20190145057A1 (en) | 2019-05-16 |
PT3469142T (en) | 2020-11-04 |
EP3469142A1 (en) | 2019-04-17 |
EP3469142B1 (en) | 2020-10-07 |
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