US20080295437A1 - Attachment system for a modular flooring assembly - Google Patents
Attachment system for a modular flooring assembly Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20080295437A1 US20080295437A1 US11/809,683 US80968307A US2008295437A1 US 20080295437 A1 US20080295437 A1 US 20080295437A1 US 80968307 A US80968307 A US 80968307A US 2008295437 A1 US2008295437 A1 US 2008295437A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- attachment system
- elongate member
- floor
- floor members
- legs
- 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
Images
Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
- E04F15/00—Flooring
- E04F15/02—Flooring or floor layers composed of a number of similar elements
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
- E04F2201/00—Joining sheets or plates or panels
- E04F2201/05—Separate connectors or inserts, e.g. pegs, pins, keys or strips
- E04F2201/0517—U- or C-shaped brackets and clamps
Definitions
- the present invention relates to flooring assemblies, and more particularly, an attachment system for a modular flooring assembly.
- Modular flooring assemblies are constructed from substantially flat floor sections or members extending over an area of the subfloor in an interlocking arrangement. Typically, the assembled floor members remain detached from the subfloor to provide a floating floor construction.
- a base floor material comprising a resilient friction-producing material such as, for example, cardboard, felt, cork or foam plastic is placed between the floor members and the subfloor to match the contour of the subfloor, and smooth out any irregularities in the surface of the subfloor. This keeps the modular flooring assembly relatively level, while maintaining the floor assembly in place on the subfloor.
- the modular flooring assembly provides enhanced portability and ease of disassembly for transport or storage, where it can be re-assembled and reused at a later time or at a different location.
- Modular flooring assemblies providing specialized floorings are especially useful in places where the existing floor is unable to accommodate a specific planned function, event or activity.
- Such specialized flooring may include, but is not limited to, sporting event floors, orchestral floors, theatrical or stage performance floors, convention/trade show floors, or the like.
- Modular flooring assemblies are used at many locations including, for example, banquet halls, recreation centers, public arenas, sports stadiums, amphitheaters, state fairgrounds, home living rooms, and the like. Modular flooring assemblies can readily transform existing floors in a convenient and cost effective manner for different functions, events, and activities.
- Modular flooring assemblies are often used to construct dance floors, which provide users with recreation, exercise, and personal enjoyment.
- a preferred dance floor surface is hard, smooth, and wood-like with a certain amount of spring. Although almost any surface may be danced upon, the action, feel and appearance of a surface tailored for dancing are appreciated by both professional and novice dancer alike.
- modular flooring assemblies designed especially for dancing present a unique set of challenges.
- modular flooring assemblies should install quickly and easily, provide a secure and smooth surface, and be able to withstand wear and forces associated with people walking and dancing upon it. Furthermore, the modular flooring assembly should be constructed without any open joints or seams, holes, or raised surfaces or objects from which a dancer or performer might trip or stumble upon. The modular flooring assembly should also employ an attachment system for securing the floor members together in a manner that prevents the floor members from separating under lateral forces generated by users, while facilitating easy and rapid assembly and disassembly.
- a common form of attachment systems for modular flooring assemblies employs reversible tongue and groove construction.
- the tongue of one floor member fits within the groove of an adjoining floor member, and the connection is secured with a removable screw or bolt fastener set through the tongue and groove.
- an attachment system and a modular flooring assembly using the same, which provides a floor having a hard, smooth surface with a certain amount of spring that is especially desirable in dance and theatrics.
- an attachment system and a modular flooring assembly using the same, which provides a locking mechanism that effectively resists lateral forces encountered during use to prevent separation of floor members, while permitting the floor members to react dynamically to vertically directed forces, thereby further enhancing the action, feel and appearance of a surface desirable for dancing.
- an attachment system, and a modular flooring assembly using the same which is simple to assemble and disassemble, and requires minimal tools, hardware and labor to implement.
- the present invention is related to an attachment system, and a modular flooring assembly using the same, to provide a secure and smooth floor surface.
- the modular flooring assembly of the present invention can be readily disassembled and transported for re-assembly at a different location for enhanced portability.
- the modular flooring assembly of the present invention includes a plurality of floor members adapted for adjoining edge-to-edge engagement to form a corresponding joint therebetween, a resilient, elastic material supporting the bottom portion of the floor members to impart a spring action to the floor members, and an attachment system comprising a clip configured to operatively engage adjoining floor members to securely retain the engaged floor members in juxtaposition and prevent lateral separation to form a floor surface without any open joints or seams, holes, raised surfaces or objects that may obstruct the user.
- the modular flooring assembly of the present invention is further designed to impart a force absorbing spring to the floor surface to enhance the action, feel and appearance of the floor that is especially desirable for dancing and theatrical performances.
- the modular flooring assembly of the present invention is adapted to withstand forces of wear and tear associated with user activity thereon.
- the arrangement of the floor members and the attachment system comprising one or more clips in accordance with the present invention greatly enhances ease of maintenance and care of the floor surface.
- the modular flooring assembly of the present invention is simple to assemble and disassemble using minimal tools, hardware and labor to implement.
- the attachment system of the present invention comprises a clip including a cross-piece member having first and second ends with a pair of legs each extending from the corresponding first and second ends inwardly toward one another.
- the legs are adapted to dynamically resist loads applied thereto relative to the distance the legs are moved apart.
- the clip of the present invention operates to securely retain adjoined floor members together, while permitting radial movement about the common joint.
- an attachment system for a modular flooring assembly to secure floor members in operable engagement to one another comprising:
- a flat, elongate member having first and second opposing ends
- a pair of legs operatively engaged to the first and second opposing ends of the flat, elongate member and each extending away from the first and second opposing ends of the elongate member towards one another at an angle from the flat elongate member and terminating at a distal end, the legs each having a length of less than half the length of the elongate member;
- modular flooring assembly comprising:
- each floor member including top and bottom portions, and edge portions configured for operative engagement with the edge portion of an adjacent floor member to form a common joint, the engaged edge portions further configured for facilitating radial movement of the juxtaposed floor members about the common joint;
- an attachment system in the form of a clip comprising:
- FIG. 1 is a top plan view of a modular flooring assembly utilizing an attachment system comprising a clip for one embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an attachment system comprising a clip for one embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 4 is a side elevational view of the clip of FIG. 3 in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 6 is an exploded, side elevational view of the portions of the modular flooring assembly within the circled area of FIG. 2 denoted by “FIG. 6 ” showing the floor members moved apart from one another in accordance with the present invention
- FIG. 7 is fragmentary, top plan view of the portions of the modular flooring assembly within the circled area of FIG. 2 denoted by “FIG. 7 ” showing a clip-receiving clip receiving area in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 8 is a partial cross sectional assembly view of the modular flooring assembly along lines 8 - 8 of FIG. 2 in accordance with the present invention.
- the present invention is directed to a modular flooring assembly and an attachment system for the modular flooring assembly comprises a clip to provide a secure and smooth floor surface.
- the modular flooring assembly may be readily disassembled and transported for re-assembly at a different location for enhanced portability.
- the modular flooring assembly of the present invention includes a plurality of floor members adapted for adjoining edge-to-edge engagement to form a corresponding joint therebetween, a resilient, elastic material supporting the bottom portion of the floor members to impart a spring action to the floor members, and an attachment system comprising a clip configured to operatively engage adjoining floor members to securely retain the engaged floor members in juxtaposition and prevent lateral separation to form a floor surface without any open joints or seams, holes, raised surfaces or objects.
- the attachment system of the present invention comprises a clip including a cross-piece member having first and second ends with a pair of legs each extending from the corresponding first and second ends inwardly toward one another.
- the legs are adapted to dynamically resist loads applied thereto relative to the distance the legs are moved apart.
- the clip of the present invention operates to securely retain adjoined floor members together, while permitting radial movement about the common joint.
- the modular flooring assembly of the present invention is adapted to withstand forces of wear and tear associated with user activity thereon.
- the arrangement of the floor members and the attachment system comprising one or more clips in accordance with the present invention greatly enhances ease of maintenance and care of the floor surface.
- the modular flooring assembly of the present invention is simple to assemble and disassemble using minimal tools, hardware and labor for implementation.
- the modular flooring assembly can be installed in a number of configurations including, but not limited, to a floating floor construction.
- the modular flooring assembly includes a floating floor construction to enhance quick installation and portability.
- the modular flooring assembly of the present invention further is designed to impart a force absorbing spring to the floor surface. This is achieved by providing a base floor material placed between the floor member and the subfloor for force absorption.
- the modular flooring assembly of the present invention enhances the action, feel and appearance of the floor that is especially desirable for dancing and theatrical performances.
- the modular flooring assembly 10 comprises a plurality of floor sections or members 12 each adjoined edge to edge to one another along corresponding edge portions 14 to form a floor surface 16 .
- the edge portions 14 of the floor members 12 are adapted to come together and form a joint 22 therebetween.
- the floor members 12 of the flooring assembly 10 are each adapted to absorb and respond in a spring-like manner to vertically directed forces typically encountered on the floor surface 16 during dancing, and further adapted to permit radial movement about the joint 22 therebetween to enhance transfer of the forces away from the floor surface 16 as will be described hereinafter.
- the floor members 12 are installed on a stable, level base surface or subfloor.
- the modular flooring assembly 10 may be installed to accommodate a range of base surfaces or subfloors under different conditions.
- the floor members 12 may be in the form of boards, parquets, tiles, panels, veneers, laminates, and the like.
- the floor members 12 are preferably composed of a hard material capable of being manufactured into a substantially planar form, such as, for example, wood, plastic polymer, metal, and the like.
- the floor members may be fabricated from any flooring material and forms as known in the art depending on the desired application and appearance of the resulting floor.
- the flooring assembly 10 includes an attachment system 18 referred to hereinafter as a “clip” adapted to operatively engage the top portion of adjacently adjoined floor members 12 .
- the clip 18 performs a dual function of retaining the adjacently adjoined floor members 12 together to prevent lateral separation, while controlling the radial movement of the adjacent floor members 12 about their common joint 22 as will be described hereinafter.
- the floor members 12 each include clip receiving areas 20 located in the top portion proximate the edge portions 14 thereof.
- the clip receiving area 20 of one floor member 12 is positioned thereon to align with the clip receiving area 20 of an adjacent floor member 12 .
- the combination of adjacent clip receiving areas 20 is adapted to accommodate and receive therebetween a single clip 18 via a clip bore 24 located in the clip receiving area 20 as will be hereinafter described.
- the flooring assembly 10 includes a plurality of base floor pads 26 comprising an resilient, elastic material underlying at least the edge portions 14 of the floor members 12 opposite from the floor surface 16 .
- Each of the base floor pads 26 is sandwiched between the bottom portion of the floor members 12 and the corresponding ground or a base support such as the subfloor.
- the resilient, elastic material of the base floor pad 26 is selected, for example, from cardboard, felt, cork, foam plastic, natural and synthetic elastomers, rubbers, and the like.
- the resilient, elastic material of the base floor pad 26 is neoprene rubber.
- the base floor pad 26 frictionally grips the ground or subfloor to prevent lateral sliding of the floor assembly 10 , match the contours of the ground or subfloor and keep the flooring assembly 10 relatively level, and absorb vertically directed forces produced by users and generate a spring-like action.
- the floor assembly 10 further includes a groove 28 extending along a corresponding edge portion 14 of the floor member 12 .
- Each groove 28 is configured to receive and retain a corresponding cylindrical ridge 44 (see FIG. 6 ) extending along the edge portion 14 of another floor member 12 .
- the groove 28 and the corresponding cylindrical ridge 44 are configured form a tongue and groove engagement between the adjoining floor members 12 .
- the groove 28 is adapted to allow limited radial movement of the cylindrical ridge 44 therein in a floating manner, while substantially maintaining horizontal alignment therebetween.
- the shape and configuration of the groove 28 and the cylindrical ridge 44 allows the floor member 12 to slightly move radially thereabout, while preventing any lateral movement therebetween as will be further described hereinafter.
- the clip 18 for a modular flooring assembly to secure floor members in operable engagement to one another is shown for one embodiment of the present invention.
- the clip 18 includes a flat, elongate member 30 having first and second opposing ends 32 and 34 , a pair of legs 36 extending from the respective first and second opposing ends 32 and 34 towards one another at an angle, ⁇ , and terminating at a respective distal ends 38 .
- the clip 18 is composed of a flexible, elastic material including a metal such as hardened steel, annealed steel, phosphor bronze, beryllium copper and the like.
- the clip 18 is composed of annealed spring steel that has been heat treated to achieve a hardness value of at least 480 Vickers (48 Rockwell ‘C’ scale), and more preferably a hardness value of from about 480 to 520 Vickers (48-50 Rockwell ‘C’ scale).
- the legs 36 of the clip 18 which are integral with the elongate member 30 , are adapted to operatively engage the top portion of the adjoining floor members 12 .
- the legs 36 of the clip 18 are inwardly angled toward one another at an angle, ⁇ , relative to the elongate member 30 .
- the angle, ⁇ is preferably in the range of from about 10° to 800, and more preferably at about 70°.
- the length of the legs 36 of the clip 18 is each up to half the length of the elongate member 30 .
- the ratio of the length of the flat, elongate member 30 and the length of each leg 36 of the clip 18 is from about 1 to 2:1, preferably from about 1.2 to 1.4:1, and more preferably about 1.3:1.
- the elongate member 30 of the clip 18 has a longitudinal length of from about 55 to 75 mm, and preferably about 65 mm, and a width of from about 15 to 35 mm, and preferably 25 mm. It will be understood that the size of the clip is not limited to the dimensions disclosed herein, and may encompass any suitable dimension necessary for the implementing the attachment system of the present invention in a corresponding modular flooring system.
- the clip 18 further includes a pair of protrusions 40 each located at the distal end 38 of the corresponding leg 36 , and extending laterally inward toward one another.
- the protrusions 40 are spaced apart from one another at a distance of at least slightly less than the length of the elongate member 30 .
- the protrusions 40 of the clip 18 are spaced apart from one another at a distance of from about 40 to 60 mm, and more preferably at about 50 mm.
- the clip 18 includes a pair of apertures 42 located in the elongate member 30 .
- the apertures 42 provide a means for the user to grip the clip 18 during removal from adjoining floor members 12 as will be described hereinafter.
- the floor members 12 are coupled to one another edge to edge through a tongue and groove engagement.
- the groove 28 extending along the edge portion 14 of one floor member 12 receives and retains the cylindrical ridge 44 of the adjoining floor member 12 to form a common joint 22 (see FIGS. 1 and 2 ).
- This arrangement allows the floor members 12 to be fitted together without gaps or spacing, and ensures a level floor surface 16 therebetween.
- the clip receiving area 20 is located in the floor surface 16 at the edge portion 14 of the floor member 12 , and functions in combination with a corresponding clip receiving area 20 of an adjoining floor member 12 .
- the clip receiving area 20 is adapted to accommodate the elongate member 30 of the clip 18 .
- the clip receiving area 20 is recessed at a depth sufficient to maintain the top surface of the elongate member 30 at least substantially flush with the surface 16 of the floor member 12 . This eliminates any raised surfaces from which a dancer or performer might trip or stumble upon.
- the clip bore 24 of the clip receiving area 20 includes a first portion 46 and optionally a second portion 48 .
- the first portion 46 is configured to receive and retain the corresponding leg 36 of a clip 18 .
- the second portion 48 of the clip bore 24 is positioned to be in communication with the corresponding aperture 42 of the clip 18 .
- the second portion 48 of the clip bore 24 allows a user to position a suitable tool through the clip aperture 42 and underneath the clip 18 in order to grip and remove the clip 18 from the clip receiving area 20 . It is preferred that the size of the second portion 48 of the clip 24 is at least the size of the clip aperture 42 .
- the floor members 12 are assembled through insertion of the cylindrical ridge 44 of one into the groove 28 of the other.
- the adjoined floor members 12 form the joint 22 therebetween.
- a clip 18 is introduced into the corresponding clip receiving areas 20 of the adjoined floor members 12 .
- Each leg 36 of the clip 18 is inserted through the corresponding first portion 46 of the clip bore 24 until the top surface of the elongate member 30 of the clip 18 is flush with the floor surface 16 .
- the distal ends 38 of the clip 18 each extend beyond the corresponding bottom portions of the adjoined floor members 12 .
- the protrusions 40 of the clip 18 is set inwardly biased against the corresponding bottom edge portions of the clip bores 24 , thus securely anchoring the clip 18 firmly in place.
- the floor members 12 may be subjected to a vertically directed force produced by a user such as through jumping on the floor surface 16 .
- the pivot action of the cylindrical ridge 44 within the groove 28 transfers a portion of the vertically directed force to the inside portions of the clip legs 36 in the form of a lateral load.
- the clip legs 36 move slightly apart, thereby conveying the vertically directed force to the base floor pads 26 .
- the clip legs 36 are configured to dynamically resist loads, where greater lateral loads are required to move the legs 36 further apart. This feature limits the range of radial movement of the floor members 12 about the joint 22 , and prevents lateral separation of the floor members 12 which could produce undesirable gaps or spacing at the joint 22 .
- the clip of the present invention enables the adjoined floor members to move radially about the common joint to produce a spring-like action in the floor surface responsive to the user's actions, while at the same time, actively maintaining a tight level joint therebetween, thus avoiding any open joints or seams, holes, or raised surfaces or objects that may pose a hazard to the user.
- the apertures 42 of the clip 18 are in communication with the corresponding second portions 48 of the clip bores 24 .
- the clip apertures 42 provide the user with a means to grip the clip 18 for facilitating removal during disassembly. This may be accomplished by simply inserting a hook through at least one of the clip apertures 42 and applying a strong upward force against the bottom side of the clip 18 to dislodge the clip legs 36 from the clip bores 24 .
- the clip legs 36 are forced outwardly away from one another as the protrusions 40 clear the bottom edge portions of the clip bores 24 , thereby overcoming the anchoring effect of the protrusions 40 .
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Architecture (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Floor Finish (AREA)
Abstract
A modular flooring assembly, includes at least two floor members, each including top and bottom portions, and edge portions configured for operative engagement with the edge portion of an adjacent floor member to form a common joint, wherein the engaged edge portions are further configured for facilitating radial movement of the juxtaposed floor members about the common joint, a resilient, elastic material supporting the bottom portion of the floor members in contact with the ground, and an attachment system including clip with a cross-piece member having first and second ends, a pair of opposed legs, each extending from the corresponding first and second ends inwardly toward one another, and the legs each configured for operatively engaging the top portions of corresponding one of adjacent floor members to securely retain the engaged floor members in juxtaposition and prevent lateral separation, while permitting radial movement of the adjacent floor members about their common joint.
Description
- The present invention relates to flooring assemblies, and more particularly, an attachment system for a modular flooring assembly.
- Modular flooring assemblies are constructed from substantially flat floor sections or members extending over an area of the subfloor in an interlocking arrangement. Typically, the assembled floor members remain detached from the subfloor to provide a floating floor construction. A base floor material comprising a resilient friction-producing material such as, for example, cardboard, felt, cork or foam plastic is placed between the floor members and the subfloor to match the contour of the subfloor, and smooth out any irregularities in the surface of the subfloor. This keeps the modular flooring assembly relatively level, while maintaining the floor assembly in place on the subfloor. The modular flooring assembly provides enhanced portability and ease of disassembly for transport or storage, where it can be re-assembled and reused at a later time or at a different location.
- Modular flooring assemblies providing specialized floorings are especially useful in places where the existing floor is unable to accommodate a specific planned function, event or activity. Such specialized flooring may include, but is not limited to, sporting event floors, orchestral floors, theatrical or stage performance floors, convention/trade show floors, or the like. Modular flooring assemblies are used at many locations including, for example, banquet halls, recreation centers, public arenas, sports stadiums, amphitheaters, state fairgrounds, home living rooms, and the like. Modular flooring assemblies can readily transform existing floors in a convenient and cost effective manner for different functions, events, and activities.
- Modular flooring assemblies are often used to construct dance floors, which provide users with recreation, exercise, and personal enjoyment. A preferred dance floor surface is hard, smooth, and wood-like with a certain amount of spring. Although almost any surface may be danced upon, the action, feel and appearance of a surface tailored for dancing are appreciated by both professional and novice dancer alike. However, despite their convenience, modular flooring assemblies designed especially for dancing, present a unique set of challenges.
- Such modular flooring assemblies should install quickly and easily, provide a secure and smooth surface, and be able to withstand wear and forces associated with people walking and dancing upon it. Furthermore, the modular flooring assembly should be constructed without any open joints or seams, holes, or raised surfaces or objects from which a dancer or performer might trip or stumble upon. The modular flooring assembly should also employ an attachment system for securing the floor members together in a manner that prevents the floor members from separating under lateral forces generated by users, while facilitating easy and rapid assembly and disassembly.
- A common form of attachment systems for modular flooring assemblies employs reversible tongue and groove construction. In such systems, the tongue of one floor member fits within the groove of an adjoining floor member, and the connection is secured with a removable screw or bolt fastener set through the tongue and groove.
- There are several disadvantages in attachment systems employing tongue and groove engagement. First, such systems require the use of tools and hardware (i.e., screw or bolt fasteners) for securing the flooring members together. The practicality of modular flooring assemblies is frustrated, if the tools and/or hardware are lost or misplaced causing either delays or improper assembly, which may be unsafe and may greatly reduce enjoyment of the floor. Second, assembly and disassembly is slow and tedious with such systems, since each screw or bolt fastener must be individually introduced and tightened during assembly, or loosened for removal during disassembly. Third, a screw or bolt head, which is not entirely flush with the surface of the dance floor, creates a potential hazard for the user. Fourth, when the floor is not in use, the tools and hardware must be stored such that they are readily located for the nest use.
- Accordingly, there is a need for an attachment system, and a modular flooring assembly using the same, which provides a floor having a hard, smooth surface with a certain amount of spring that is especially desirable in dance and theatrics. There is a further need for an attachment system, and a modular flooring assembly using the same, which provides a locking mechanism that effectively resists lateral forces encountered during use to prevent separation of floor members, while permitting the floor members to react dynamically to vertically directed forces, thereby further enhancing the action, feel and appearance of a surface desirable for dancing. There is a further need for an attachment system, and a modular flooring assembly using the same, which is simple to assemble and disassemble, and requires minimal tools, hardware and labor to implement.
- The present invention is related to an attachment system, and a modular flooring assembly using the same, to provide a secure and smooth floor surface. The modular flooring assembly of the present invention can be readily disassembled and transported for re-assembly at a different location for enhanced portability. The modular flooring assembly of the present invention includes a plurality of floor members adapted for adjoining edge-to-edge engagement to form a corresponding joint therebetween, a resilient, elastic material supporting the bottom portion of the floor members to impart a spring action to the floor members, and an attachment system comprising a clip configured to operatively engage adjoining floor members to securely retain the engaged floor members in juxtaposition and prevent lateral separation to form a floor surface without any open joints or seams, holes, raised surfaces or objects that may obstruct the user.
- The modular flooring assembly of the present invention is further designed to impart a force absorbing spring to the floor surface to enhance the action, feel and appearance of the floor that is especially desirable for dancing and theatrical performances. The modular flooring assembly of the present invention is adapted to withstand forces of wear and tear associated with user activity thereon. The arrangement of the floor members and the attachment system comprising one or more clips in accordance with the present invention greatly enhances ease of maintenance and care of the floor surface. The modular flooring assembly of the present invention is simple to assemble and disassemble using minimal tools, hardware and labor to implement.
- The attachment system of the present invention comprises a clip including a cross-piece member having first and second ends with a pair of legs each extending from the corresponding first and second ends inwardly toward one another. The legs are adapted to dynamically resist loads applied thereto relative to the distance the legs are moved apart. The clip of the present invention operates to securely retain adjoined floor members together, while permitting radial movement about the common joint.
- In one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an attachment system for a modular flooring assembly to secure floor members in operable engagement to one another, comprising:
- a flat, elongate member having first and second opposing ends;
- a pair of legs operatively engaged to the first and second opposing ends of the flat, elongate member and each extending away from the first and second opposing ends of the elongate member towards one another at an angle from the flat elongate member and terminating at a distal end, the legs each having a length of less than half the length of the elongate member;
- a pair of inwardly directed protrusions each located at the distal end of the corresponding leg, the protrusions being spaced apart from one another at a distance of at least slightly less than the length of the elongate member; and
- the pair of legs each further configured for operative engagement with the top portions of corresponding one of adjacently adjoined floor members to securely retain the engaged floor members in juxtaposition, while permitting radial movement of the adjoined floor members about their common joint.
- In another aspect of the present invention, there is provided modular flooring assembly, comprising:
- at least two floor members, each including top and bottom portions, and edge portions configured for operative engagement with the edge portion of an adjacent floor member to form a common joint, the engaged edge portions further configured for facilitating radial movement of the juxtaposed floor members about the common joint;
- a resilient, elastic material supporting the bottom portion of the floor members in contact with the ground; and
- an attachment system in the form of a clip comprising:
-
- a flat, elongate member having first and second opposing ends;
- a pair of legs operatively engaged to the first and second opposing ends of the flat, elongate member and each extending away from the first and second opposing ends of the elongate member towards one another at an angle from the flat elongate member and terminating at a distal end, the legs each having a length of less than half the length of the elongate member;
- a pair of inwardly directed protrusions each located at the distal end of the corresponding leg, the protrusions being spaced apart from one another at a distance of at least slightly less than the length of the elongate member; and
- the pair of legs each further configured for operative engagement with the top portions of corresponding one of adjacently adjoined floor members to securely retain the engaged floor members in juxtaposition, while permitting radial movement of the adjoined floor members about their common joint.
- The following drawings are illustrative of embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the invention as encompassed by the claims forming part of the application.
-
FIG. 1 is a top plan view of a modular flooring assembly utilizing an attachment system comprising a clip for one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the modular flooring assembly shown with two assembled floor members in accordance with the present invention; -
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an attachment system comprising a clip for one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 4 is a side elevational view of the clip ofFIG. 3 in accordance with the present invention; -
FIG. 5 is a top plan view of the clip ofFIG. 3 in accordance with the present invention; -
FIG. 6 is an exploded, side elevational view of the portions of the modular flooring assembly within the circled area ofFIG. 2 denoted by “FIG. 6” showing the floor members moved apart from one another in accordance with the present invention; -
FIG. 7 is fragmentary, top plan view of the portions of the modular flooring assembly within the circled area ofFIG. 2 denoted by “FIG. 7” showing a clip-receiving clip receiving area in accordance with the present invention; and -
FIG. 8 is a partial cross sectional assembly view of the modular flooring assembly along lines 8-8 ofFIG. 2 in accordance with the present invention. - The present invention is directed to a modular flooring assembly and an attachment system for the modular flooring assembly comprises a clip to provide a secure and smooth floor surface. The modular flooring assembly may be readily disassembled and transported for re-assembly at a different location for enhanced portability. The modular flooring assembly of the present invention includes a plurality of floor members adapted for adjoining edge-to-edge engagement to form a corresponding joint therebetween, a resilient, elastic material supporting the bottom portion of the floor members to impart a spring action to the floor members, and an attachment system comprising a clip configured to operatively engage adjoining floor members to securely retain the engaged floor members in juxtaposition and prevent lateral separation to form a floor surface without any open joints or seams, holes, raised surfaces or objects.
- The attachment system of the present invention comprises a clip including a cross-piece member having first and second ends with a pair of legs each extending from the corresponding first and second ends inwardly toward one another. The legs are adapted to dynamically resist loads applied thereto relative to the distance the legs are moved apart. The clip of the present invention operates to securely retain adjoined floor members together, while permitting radial movement about the common joint.
- The modular flooring assembly of the present invention is adapted to withstand forces of wear and tear associated with user activity thereon. The arrangement of the floor members and the attachment system comprising one or more clips in accordance with the present invention greatly enhances ease of maintenance and care of the floor surface. The modular flooring assembly of the present invention is simple to assemble and disassemble using minimal tools, hardware and labor for implementation.
- The modular flooring assembly can be installed in a number of configurations including, but not limited, to a floating floor construction. Preferably, the modular flooring assembly includes a floating floor construction to enhance quick installation and portability. The modular flooring assembly of the present invention further is designed to impart a force absorbing spring to the floor surface. This is achieved by providing a base floor material placed between the floor member and the subfloor for force absorption. The modular flooring assembly of the present invention enhances the action, feel and appearance of the floor that is especially desirable for dancing and theatrical performances.
- Referring to
FIG. 1 , a modular flooring assembly generally byreference numeral 10 is shown for one embodiment of the present invention. Themodular flooring assembly 10 comprises a plurality of floor sections ormembers 12 each adjoined edge to edge to one another along correspondingedge portions 14 to form afloor surface 16. Theedge portions 14 of thefloor members 12 are adapted to come together and form a joint 22 therebetween. Thefloor members 12 of theflooring assembly 10 are each adapted to absorb and respond in a spring-like manner to vertically directed forces typically encountered on thefloor surface 16 during dancing, and further adapted to permit radial movement about the joint 22 therebetween to enhance transfer of the forces away from thefloor surface 16 as will be described hereinafter. - Preferably, the
floor members 12 are installed on a stable, level base surface or subfloor. However, it will be understood that themodular flooring assembly 10 may be installed to accommodate a range of base surfaces or subfloors under different conditions. Moreover, thefloor members 12 may be in the form of boards, parquets, tiles, panels, veneers, laminates, and the like. Thefloor members 12 are preferably composed of a hard material capable of being manufactured into a substantially planar form, such as, for example, wood, plastic polymer, metal, and the like. As will be understood, the floor members may be fabricated from any flooring material and forms as known in the art depending on the desired application and appearance of the resulting floor. - The
flooring assembly 10 includes anattachment system 18 referred to hereinafter as a “clip” adapted to operatively engage the top portion of adjacently adjoinedfloor members 12. Theclip 18 performs a dual function of retaining the adjacently adjoinedfloor members 12 together to prevent lateral separation, while controlling the radial movement of theadjacent floor members 12 about their common joint 22 as will be described hereinafter. Thefloor members 12 each includeclip receiving areas 20 located in the top portion proximate theedge portions 14 thereof. Theclip receiving area 20 of onefloor member 12 is positioned thereon to align with theclip receiving area 20 of anadjacent floor member 12. The combination of adjacentclip receiving areas 20 is adapted to accommodate and receive therebetween asingle clip 18 via a clip bore 24 located in theclip receiving area 20 as will be hereinafter described. - Referring to
FIG. 2 , theflooring assembly 10 includes a plurality ofbase floor pads 26 comprising an resilient, elastic material underlying at least theedge portions 14 of thefloor members 12 opposite from thefloor surface 16. Each of thebase floor pads 26 is sandwiched between the bottom portion of thefloor members 12 and the corresponding ground or a base support such as the subfloor. The resilient, elastic material of thebase floor pad 26 is selected, for example, from cardboard, felt, cork, foam plastic, natural and synthetic elastomers, rubbers, and the like. Preferably, the resilient, elastic material of thebase floor pad 26 is neoprene rubber. Thebase floor pad 26 frictionally grips the ground or subfloor to prevent lateral sliding of thefloor assembly 10, match the contours of the ground or subfloor and keep theflooring assembly 10 relatively level, and absorb vertically directed forces produced by users and generate a spring-like action. - The
floor assembly 10 further includes agroove 28 extending along acorresponding edge portion 14 of thefloor member 12. Eachgroove 28 is configured to receive and retain a corresponding cylindrical ridge 44 (seeFIG. 6 ) extending along theedge portion 14 of anotherfloor member 12. Thegroove 28 and the correspondingcylindrical ridge 44 are configured form a tongue and groove engagement between the adjoiningfloor members 12. Thegroove 28 is adapted to allow limited radial movement of thecylindrical ridge 44 therein in a floating manner, while substantially maintaining horizontal alignment therebetween. The shape and configuration of thegroove 28 and thecylindrical ridge 44 allows thefloor member 12 to slightly move radially thereabout, while preventing any lateral movement therebetween as will be further described hereinafter. - Referring to
FIGS. 3-5 , theclip 18 for a modular flooring assembly to secure floor members in operable engagement to one another is shown for one embodiment of the present invention. Theclip 18 includes a flat,elongate member 30 having first and second opposing ends 32 and 34, a pair oflegs 36 extending from the respective first and second opposing ends 32 and 34 towards one another at an angle, α, and terminating at a respective distal ends 38. - The
legs 36 of theclip 18 are adapted to dynamically resist loads, specifically laterally directed loads, applied thereto relative to the distance thelegs 36 are moved apart. The laterally directed loads are generated in combination by the user and by the radial movement of thefloor members 12 about the joint 22. Thelegs 36 are adapted to resist loads progressively as thelegs 36 move apart from one another in incremental amounts. This dynamic load resistance feature enables theflooring assembly 10 to be more responsive to the actions of the user. - In the present embodiment, and by way of example, the
clip 18 is adapted to resist a first load of from about 2000 to 2500 grams at a first displacement of about 2 mm as measured by the distance the distal ends 38 of thelegs 36 are moved relative to one another from a rest position, a second load of from about 4500 to 5750 grams at a second displacement of about 4 mm, and a third load of from about 5850 to 7500 grams at a third displacement of about 6 mm. It is understood that the dynamic load resistance values is not limited to those disclosed herein, and can be modified according to the desired response characteristics of theflooring assembly 10 based on user preferences, dance styles, floor configurations, flooring materials used, and the like. - The
clip 18 is composed of a flexible, elastic material including a metal such as hardened steel, annealed steel, phosphor bronze, beryllium copper and the like. Preferably, theclip 18 is composed of annealed spring steel that has been heat treated to achieve a hardness value of at least 480 Vickers (48 Rockwell ‘C’ scale), and more preferably a hardness value of from about 480 to 520 Vickers (48-50 Rockwell ‘C’ scale). - The
legs 36 of theclip 18, which are integral with theelongate member 30, are adapted to operatively engage the top portion of the adjoiningfloor members 12. Thelegs 36 of theclip 18 are inwardly angled toward one another at an angle, α, relative to theelongate member 30. The angle, α, is preferably in the range of from about 10° to 800, and more preferably at about 70°. - The length of the
legs 36 of theclip 18 is each up to half the length of theelongate member 30. The ratio of the length of the flat,elongate member 30 and the length of eachleg 36 of theclip 18 is from about 1 to 2:1, preferably from about 1.2 to 1.4:1, and more preferably about 1.3:1. - In the present embodiment, the
elongate member 30 of theclip 18 has a longitudinal length of from about 55 to 75 mm, and preferably about 65 mm, and a width of from about 15 to 35 mm, and preferably 25 mm. It will be understood that the size of the clip is not limited to the dimensions disclosed herein, and may encompass any suitable dimension necessary for the implementing the attachment system of the present invention in a corresponding modular flooring system. - The
clip 18 further includes a pair ofprotrusions 40 each located at thedistal end 38 of thecorresponding leg 36, and extending laterally inward toward one another. Theprotrusions 40 are spaced apart from one another at a distance of at least slightly less than the length of theelongate member 30. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, theprotrusions 40 of theclip 18 are spaced apart from one another at a distance of from about 40 to 60 mm, and more preferably at about 50 mm. - The
clip 18 includes a pair ofapertures 42 located in theelongate member 30. Theapertures 42 provide a means for the user to grip theclip 18 during removal from adjoiningfloor members 12 as will be described hereinafter. - Referring to
FIG. 6 , thefloor members 12 are coupled to one another edge to edge through a tongue and groove engagement. Thegroove 28 extending along theedge portion 14 of onefloor member 12 receives and retains thecylindrical ridge 44 of the adjoiningfloor member 12 to form a common joint 22 (seeFIGS. 1 and 2 ). This arrangement allows thefloor members 12 to be fitted together without gaps or spacing, and ensures alevel floor surface 16 therebetween. - The shape of the
cylindrical ridge 44 and the correspondinggroove 28 provides a limited freedom of radial movement about the joint 22 between the adjoinedfloor members 12, which enhances vertical transfer of force generated by the user to the correspondingbase floor pad 26. This greatly improves force absorption in theflooring assembly 10, while maintaining a tight fit between the adjoinedfloor members 12 and minimizing any gaps or spacing, which may create a hazard. It is preferred that the length of thecylindrical ridge 44 extending from theedge portion 14 of thefloor member 12 matches or slightly exceeds the depth of the correspondinggroove 28. - Referring to
FIG. 7 , theclip receiving area 20 is located in thefloor surface 16 at theedge portion 14 of thefloor member 12, and functions in combination with a correspondingclip receiving area 20 of an adjoiningfloor member 12. Theclip receiving area 20 is adapted to accommodate theelongate member 30 of theclip 18. Theclip receiving area 20 is recessed at a depth sufficient to maintain the top surface of theelongate member 30 at least substantially flush with thesurface 16 of thefloor member 12. This eliminates any raised surfaces from which a dancer or performer might trip or stumble upon. - The clip bore 24 of the
clip receiving area 20 includes afirst portion 46 and optionally asecond portion 48. Thefirst portion 46 is configured to receive and retain thecorresponding leg 36 of aclip 18. Thesecond portion 48 of the clip bore 24 is positioned to be in communication with the correspondingaperture 42 of theclip 18. Thesecond portion 48 of the clip bore 24 allows a user to position a suitable tool through theclip aperture 42 and underneath theclip 18 in order to grip and remove theclip 18 from theclip receiving area 20. It is preferred that the size of thesecond portion 48 of theclip 24 is at least the size of theclip aperture 42. - Referring to
FIG. 8 , thefloor members 12 are assembled through insertion of thecylindrical ridge 44 of one into thegroove 28 of the other. The adjoinedfloor members 12 form the joint 22 therebetween. Aclip 18 is introduced into the correspondingclip receiving areas 20 of the adjoinedfloor members 12. Eachleg 36 of theclip 18 is inserted through the correspondingfirst portion 46 of the clip bore 24 until the top surface of theelongate member 30 of theclip 18 is flush with thefloor surface 16. The distal ends 38 of theclip 18 each extend beyond the corresponding bottom portions of the adjoinedfloor members 12. Theprotrusions 40 of theclip 18 is set inwardly biased against the corresponding bottom edge portions of the clip bores 24, thus securely anchoring theclip 18 firmly in place. - During use, the
floor members 12 may be subjected to a vertically directed force produced by a user such as through jumping on thefloor surface 16. The pivot action of thecylindrical ridge 44 within thegroove 28 transfers a portion of the vertically directed force to the inside portions of theclip legs 36 in the form of a lateral load. Theclip legs 36 move slightly apart, thereby conveying the vertically directed force to thebase floor pads 26. Theclip legs 36 are configured to dynamically resist loads, where greater lateral loads are required to move thelegs 36 further apart. This feature limits the range of radial movement of thefloor members 12 about the joint 22, and prevents lateral separation of thefloor members 12 which could produce undesirable gaps or spacing at the joint 22. - The combination of the shape, configuration and physical properties of the clip of the present invention, including the angle, α, the relative length ratios of the legs and elongate member, hardness values, dynamic load resistance, and the like as disclosed herein, have been determined to effectively provide flooring characteristics especially desirable in dance floors. In particular, the clip of the present invention enables the adjoined floor members to move radially about the common joint to produce a spring-like action in the floor surface responsive to the user's actions, while at the same time, actively maintaining a tight level joint therebetween, thus avoiding any open joints or seams, holes, or raised surfaces or objects that may pose a hazard to the user.
- The
apertures 42 of theclip 18 are in communication with the correspondingsecond portions 48 of the clip bores 24. As described previously, theclip apertures 42 provide the user with a means to grip theclip 18 for facilitating removal during disassembly. This may be accomplished by simply inserting a hook through at least one of theclip apertures 42 and applying a strong upward force against the bottom side of theclip 18 to dislodge theclip legs 36 from the clip bores 24. Theclip legs 36 are forced outwardly away from one another as theprotrusions 40 clear the bottom edge portions of the clip bores 24, thereby overcoming the anchoring effect of theprotrusions 40. - The foregoing discussion discloses and describes merely exemplary embodiments of the present invention. One skilled in the art will readily recognize from such discussion, and from the accompanying drawings and claims, that various changes, modifications and variations can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.
Claims (25)
1. An attachment system an attachment system for a modular flooring assembly to secure floor members in operable engagement to one another, comprising:
a flat, elongate member having first and second opposing ends;
a pair of legs operatively engaged to the first and second opposing ends of the flat, elongate member and each extending away from said first and second opposing ends of the elongate member towards one another at an angle from the flat elongate member and terminating at a distal end, said legs each having a length of less than half the length of the elongate member;
a pair of inwardly directed protrusions each located at the distal end of the corresponding leg, said protrusions being spaced apart from one another at a distance of at least slightly less than the length of the elongate member; and
said pair of legs each further configured for operative engagement with the top portions of corresponding one of adjacently adjoined floor members to securely retain the engaged floor members in juxtaposition, while permitting radial movement of the adjoined floor members about their common joint.
2. The attachment system of claim 1 wherein the legs and the elongate member are integral with one another.
3. The attachment system of claim 1 wherein the angle is in the range of from about 10° to 80°.
4. The attachment system of claim 3 wherein the angle is about 70°.
5. The attachment system of claim 1 wherein the ratio of the length of the flat, elongate member and the length of the leg is from about 1.0 to 2.0:1.
6. The attachment system of claim 5 wherein the length ratio is from about 1.2 to 1.4:1.
7. The attachment system of claim 6 wherein the length ratio is about 1.3:1.
8. The attachment system of claim 1 wherein the flat, elongate member has a longitudinal length of from about 55 to 75 mm.
9. The attachment system of claim 1 wherein the longitudinal length of the flat, elongate member is about 65 mm.
10. The attachment system of claim 1 wherein the flat, elongate member has a width of from about 15 to 35 mm.
11. The attachment system of claim 10 wherein the width of the flat, elongate member is about 25 mm.
12. The attachment system of claim 1 wherein the distance between the protrusions is in the range of from about 40 to 60 mm.
13. The attachment system of claim 12 wherein the distance between the protrusions is about 50 mm.
14. The attachment system of claim 1 wherein the legs are adapted to resist a laterally directed load.
15. The attachment system of claim 14 wherein the legs are adapted to resist:
a first load at a first displacement as measured by the distance the distal ends of the legs are moved relative to one another from a rest position;
a second load at a second displacement greater than the first displacement; and
a third load at a third displacement greater than the second displacement.
16. The attachment system of claim 15 wherein:
the first load is in the range of from about 2000 to 2500 grams at the first displacement of about 2 mm;
the second load is in the range of from about 4500 to 5750 grams at the second displacement of about 4 mm; and
the third load is in the range of from about 5850 to 7500 grams at the third displacement of about 6 mm.
17. The attachment system of claim 1 exhibits a hardness value of at least 480 Vickers.
18. The attachment system of claim 17 wherein the hardness value is in the range of from about 480 to 520 Vickers.
19. The attachment system of claim 1 wherein the protrusions extend laterally inward.
20. The attachment system of claim 1 further comprising means for gripping the elongate member.
21. The attachment system of claim 20 wherein the gripping means comprises at least one aperture extending through the elongate member.
22. A modular flooring assembly, comprising:
at least two floor members, each including top and bottom portions, and edge portions configured for operative engagement with the edge portion of an adjacent floor member to form a common joint, said engaged edge portions further configured for facilitating radial movement of the juxtaposed floor members about the common joint;
a resilient, elastic material supporting the bottom portion of the floor members in contact with the ground; and
an attachment system in the form of a clip comprising:
a flat, elongate member having first and second opposing ends;
a pair of legs operatively engaged to the first and second opposing ends of the flat, elongate member and each extending away from said first and second opposing ends of the elongate member towards one another at an angle from the flat elongate member and terminating at a distal end, said legs each having a length of less than half the length of the elongate member;
a pair of inwardly directed protrusions each located at the distal end of the corresponding leg, said protrusions being spaced apart from one another at a distance of at least slightly less than the length of the elongate member; and
said pair of legs each further configured for operative engagement with the top portions of corresponding one of adjacently adjoined floor members to securely retain the engaged floor members in juxtaposition, while permitting radial movement of the adjoined floor members about their common joint.
23. The modular flooring assembly of claim 22 , wherein the edge portions of adjacent juxtaposed floor members forming a common joint are coupled in an edge to edge configuration through a tongue and groove engagement.
24. The modular flooring assembly of claim 22 further comprising:
a cylindrical ridge extending along the edge portion of a floor member;
a groove complementary to the cylindrical ridge extending along the edge portion of a corresponding adjoining floor member;
wherein the cylindrical ridge occupies the groove to form a tongue and groove engagement therebetween.
25. The modular flooring assembly of claim 24 , wherein the length of the cylindrical ridge extending from the edge portion of one floor member is at least the depth of the groove of an adjoining floor member.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/809,683 US20080295437A1 (en) | 2007-05-30 | 2007-05-30 | Attachment system for a modular flooring assembly |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/809,683 US20080295437A1 (en) | 2007-05-30 | 2007-05-30 | Attachment system for a modular flooring assembly |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20080295437A1 true US20080295437A1 (en) | 2008-12-04 |
Family
ID=40086603
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/809,683 Abandoned US20080295437A1 (en) | 2007-05-30 | 2007-05-30 | Attachment system for a modular flooring assembly |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20080295437A1 (en) |
Cited By (14)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20110179728A1 (en) * | 2010-01-22 | 2011-07-28 | Connor Sport Court International, Inc. | Modular sub-flooring system |
US8307600B2 (en) | 2009-07-02 | 2012-11-13 | Dollamur Lp | Mat connecting system |
US8397466B2 (en) | 2004-10-06 | 2013-03-19 | Connor Sport Court International, Llc | Tile with multiple-level surface |
US8407951B2 (en) | 2004-10-06 | 2013-04-02 | Connor Sport Court International, Llc | Modular synthetic floor tile configured for enhanced performance |
US8424257B2 (en) | 2004-02-25 | 2013-04-23 | Mark L. Jenkins | Modular tile with controlled deflection |
US8505256B2 (en) | 2010-01-29 | 2013-08-13 | Connor Sport Court International, Llc | Synthetic floor tile having partially-compliant support structure |
US8733056B2 (en) | 2009-07-02 | 2014-05-27 | Dollamur Lp | Mat connecting system |
US20150354234A1 (en) * | 2013-01-25 | 2015-12-10 | Jong Woo Kang | Flat tie and method of constructing form using flat tie and nonmetallic form board |
US20150368915A1 (en) * | 2013-02-05 | 2015-12-24 | Yessform Co., Ltd. | Form board and method of constructing form using the same |
US20160220879A1 (en) * | 2015-02-02 | 2016-08-04 | True Pitch, Inc. | Multiple piece pitching mound with replaceable rubber |
NL2015763B1 (en) * | 2015-11-10 | 2017-05-26 | Flow Advies & Man Bv | Coupling piece for coupling at least two panels. |
US20190017228A1 (en) * | 2016-03-01 | 2019-01-17 | Permavoid Limited | Support Structure with a Connecting Plug |
US20210355691A1 (en) * | 2020-03-09 | 2021-11-18 | Spencer Gavin Hering | Modular Sprung Floor |
WO2024105389A1 (en) * | 2022-11-14 | 2024-05-23 | Ultraframe (Uk) Limited | A clip for a partition |
Citations (11)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4115938A (en) * | 1976-12-22 | 1978-09-26 | Saugatuck Industries, Incorporated | Variable picture frame assembly |
US4169688A (en) * | 1976-03-15 | 1979-10-02 | Sato Toshio | Artificial skating-rink floor |
US5651220A (en) * | 1995-10-06 | 1997-07-29 | Dit Felix; Gerard Chamayou | Shelter consisting of panels assembled in a polyhedron |
US5899038A (en) * | 1997-04-22 | 1999-05-04 | Mondo S.P.A. | Laminated flooring, for example for sports facilities, a support formation and anchoring systems therefor |
US6453632B1 (en) * | 1999-08-09 | 2002-09-24 | Chin-Chih Huang | Wooden floor board |
US6763643B1 (en) * | 1998-10-06 | 2004-07-20 | Pergo (Europe) Ab | Flooring material comprising flooring elements which are assembled by means of separate joining elements |
US20050005556A1 (en) * | 2003-03-24 | 2005-01-13 | Peter Collier | Composite building block having moisture barrier and insulation element |
US20060070332A1 (en) * | 2000-03-10 | 2006-04-06 | Pergo (Europe) Ab | Vertically joined floor elements comprising a combination of different floor elements |
US20070107359A1 (en) * | 2005-11-11 | 2007-05-17 | Weigang Zhang | Panels to be engaged with each other through a locking element |
US7389618B1 (en) * | 2004-04-09 | 2008-06-24 | Shawn Herkstroeter | Prefabricated panels for temporary structures |
US20080184646A1 (en) * | 2007-02-02 | 2008-08-07 | Mohawk Carpet Corporation | Groutless tile system and method for making the same |
-
2007
- 2007-05-30 US US11/809,683 patent/US20080295437A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (11)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4169688A (en) * | 1976-03-15 | 1979-10-02 | Sato Toshio | Artificial skating-rink floor |
US4115938A (en) * | 1976-12-22 | 1978-09-26 | Saugatuck Industries, Incorporated | Variable picture frame assembly |
US5651220A (en) * | 1995-10-06 | 1997-07-29 | Dit Felix; Gerard Chamayou | Shelter consisting of panels assembled in a polyhedron |
US5899038A (en) * | 1997-04-22 | 1999-05-04 | Mondo S.P.A. | Laminated flooring, for example for sports facilities, a support formation and anchoring systems therefor |
US6763643B1 (en) * | 1998-10-06 | 2004-07-20 | Pergo (Europe) Ab | Flooring material comprising flooring elements which are assembled by means of separate joining elements |
US6453632B1 (en) * | 1999-08-09 | 2002-09-24 | Chin-Chih Huang | Wooden floor board |
US20060070332A1 (en) * | 2000-03-10 | 2006-04-06 | Pergo (Europe) Ab | Vertically joined floor elements comprising a combination of different floor elements |
US20050005556A1 (en) * | 2003-03-24 | 2005-01-13 | Peter Collier | Composite building block having moisture barrier and insulation element |
US7389618B1 (en) * | 2004-04-09 | 2008-06-24 | Shawn Herkstroeter | Prefabricated panels for temporary structures |
US20070107359A1 (en) * | 2005-11-11 | 2007-05-17 | Weigang Zhang | Panels to be engaged with each other through a locking element |
US20080184646A1 (en) * | 2007-02-02 | 2008-08-07 | Mohawk Carpet Corporation | Groutless tile system and method for making the same |
Cited By (24)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US8955268B2 (en) | 2004-02-25 | 2015-02-17 | Connor Sport Court International, Llc | Modular tile with controlled deflection |
US8424257B2 (en) | 2004-02-25 | 2013-04-23 | Mark L. Jenkins | Modular tile with controlled deflection |
US8596023B2 (en) | 2004-02-25 | 2013-12-03 | Connor Sport Court International, Llc | Modular tile with controlled deflection |
US8397466B2 (en) | 2004-10-06 | 2013-03-19 | Connor Sport Court International, Llc | Tile with multiple-level surface |
US8407951B2 (en) | 2004-10-06 | 2013-04-02 | Connor Sport Court International, Llc | Modular synthetic floor tile configured for enhanced performance |
US8733056B2 (en) | 2009-07-02 | 2014-05-27 | Dollamur Lp | Mat connecting system |
US8307600B2 (en) | 2009-07-02 | 2012-11-13 | Dollamur Lp | Mat connecting system |
US9278243B1 (en) | 2009-07-02 | 2016-03-08 | Dollamur Lp | Mat connecting system |
US8596011B2 (en) | 2009-07-02 | 2013-12-03 | Dollamur Lp | Mat connecting system |
US8800233B1 (en) | 2009-07-02 | 2014-08-12 | Dollamur Lp | Mat connecting system |
US20110179728A1 (en) * | 2010-01-22 | 2011-07-28 | Connor Sport Court International, Inc. | Modular sub-flooring system |
US8683769B2 (en) * | 2010-01-22 | 2014-04-01 | Connor Sport Court International, Llc | Modular sub-flooring system |
CN102231998A (en) * | 2010-01-22 | 2011-11-02 | 康纳尔运动场国际公司 | Modular sub-flooring system |
CN102231998B (en) * | 2010-01-22 | 2015-09-09 | 康纳尔运动场国际有限责任公司 | Modular sub-flooring system |
US8505256B2 (en) | 2010-01-29 | 2013-08-13 | Connor Sport Court International, Llc | Synthetic floor tile having partially-compliant support structure |
US20150354234A1 (en) * | 2013-01-25 | 2015-12-10 | Jong Woo Kang | Flat tie and method of constructing form using flat tie and nonmetallic form board |
US20150368915A1 (en) * | 2013-02-05 | 2015-12-24 | Yessform Co., Ltd. | Form board and method of constructing form using the same |
US20160220879A1 (en) * | 2015-02-02 | 2016-08-04 | True Pitch, Inc. | Multiple piece pitching mound with replaceable rubber |
NL2015763B1 (en) * | 2015-11-10 | 2017-05-26 | Flow Advies & Man Bv | Coupling piece for coupling at least two panels. |
US20190017228A1 (en) * | 2016-03-01 | 2019-01-17 | Permavoid Limited | Support Structure with a Connecting Plug |
US10718090B2 (en) * | 2016-03-01 | 2020-07-21 | Permavoid Limited | Support structure with a connecting plug |
US20210355691A1 (en) * | 2020-03-09 | 2021-11-18 | Spencer Gavin Hering | Modular Sprung Floor |
US11655639B2 (en) * | 2020-03-09 | 2023-05-23 | Spencer Gavin Hering | Modular sprung floor |
WO2024105389A1 (en) * | 2022-11-14 | 2024-05-23 | Ultraframe (Uk) Limited | A clip for a partition |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20080295437A1 (en) | Attachment system for a modular flooring assembly | |
US6684592B2 (en) | Interlocking floor panels | |
US6931808B2 (en) | Floor system | |
KR100970192B1 (en) | Connection clip for wooddeck | |
US6237295B1 (en) | Flooring assembly and fastener therefor | |
RU2449098C2 (en) | Floor element for modular floor, modular floor arranged with this element and method to assemble such modular floor | |
JP5091516B2 (en) | Long plate material fixing structure, long plate material fixture, and long plate material | |
US20060260236A1 (en) | Tool for installing a floating floor | |
US4408428A (en) | Suspended panel ceiling having impact absorbent panel retaining clip assemblies | |
US20080060305A1 (en) | Interlocking Floor | |
US5647183A (en) | Resilient flooring | |
US4930280A (en) | Flooring system with metal strips | |
US20020170257A1 (en) | Decorative wood surfaces | |
EP0473579A1 (en) | Portable cushioned floor system | |
GB2241001A (en) | Resilient floor system. | |
US6557314B2 (en) | Athletic flooring substructure | |
CA2558328A1 (en) | Hidden deck clip and hidden deck system | |
US20050144867A1 (en) | Portable shock-absorbing dance floor panel system | |
WO1992014522A1 (en) | Subflooring assembly for athletic playing surface | |
US20120151866A1 (en) | Interlocking temporary modular floor | |
KR100623960B1 (en) | Combination structure of prefabricated floor structure | |
EP1611930A1 (en) | Gymnastics exercise floor | |
KR101229895B1 (en) | Deck fastener and fixed structure of deck | |
KR100858843B1 (en) | Prefabricated floor | |
GB2445267A (en) | Engaging assembly for a floor covering |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |