US20160222598A1 - Access mat - Google Patents
Access mat Download PDFInfo
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- US20160222598A1 US20160222598A1 US15/089,945 US201615089945A US2016222598A1 US 20160222598 A1 US20160222598 A1 US 20160222598A1 US 201615089945 A US201615089945 A US 201615089945A US 2016222598 A1 US2016222598 A1 US 2016222598A1
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- Prior art keywords
- lumber
- layer
- access
- longitudinal axis
- access mat
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Classifications
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- 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
- E01C11/00—Details of pavings
- E01C11/02—Arrangement or construction of joints; Methods of making joints; Packing for joints
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- 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
- E01C11/00—Details of pavings
- E01C11/005—Methods or materials for repairing pavings
-
- 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
- E01C5/00—Pavings made of prefabricated single units
- E01C5/14—Pavings made of prefabricated single units made of wooden units
-
- 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
- E01C5/00—Pavings made of prefabricated single units
- E01C5/22—Pavings made of prefabricated single units made of units composed of a mixture of materials covered by two or more of groups E01C5/008, E01C5/02 - E01C5/20 except embedded reinforcing materials
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- 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
- E01C9/00—Special pavings; Pavings for special parts of roads or airfields
- E01C9/08—Temporary pavings
- E01C9/086—Temporary pavings made of concrete, wood, bitumen, rubber or synthetic material or a combination thereof
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- 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
- E01C2201/00—Paving elements
- E01C2201/12—Paving elements vertically interlocking
Definitions
- access mats to allow access to environmentally sensitive areas
- these access mats are also referred to by various other names such as: “rig mats”, “road mats”, “site mats” or “swamp mats”.
- an access mat has a rectangular body having a length dimension and a width dimension.
- the body includes three laminated layers of lumber laminated together by an adhesive and pressure, with each of the lumber having a longitudinal axis.
- a first layer of the at least three layers has a plurality of lumber, with the longitudinal axis of each lumber in a parallel orientation extending across the length dimension.
- a second layer of the three layers has a plurality of lumber with the longitudinal axis of each lumber in a parallel orientation extending across the width dimension.
- a third layer of the three layers has a plurality of lumber with the longitudinal axis of each lumber in an angular orientation relative to the longitudinal axis of the plurality of lumber of the second layer.
- Connectors are provided for connecting the body with other like bodies.
- This cross-laminated lumber access mat was tested against bolted lumber access mat and, as will hereinafter be described, substantially out-performed the bolted lumber access mat. It is, of course, possible to fabricate a cross-laminated access mat having just two layers or more than three layers. A cross-laminated access mat having just two layers is not believed to have the requisite strength and stiffness. It would not be practical given the loads and abuse to which it would be subjected. A cross-laminated access mat having more than three layers would be viable, but each layer increase weight and at some point additional layers would tend to be redundant.
- each lumber of the plurality of lumber of the second layer is in an orientation that is perpendicular to the orientation of the lumber of the first layer. It is also preferred that the longitudinal axis of each lumber of the plurality of lumber of the third layer is in an orientation that is perpendicular to the orientation of the lumber of the second layer. It will be appreciated that another angular orientation, such as 45 degrees, would be viable. However, diagonal orientations would tend to reduce the strength of the body and result in a waste of materials during manufacture.
- the plurality of lumber of the first layer and the plurality of lumber of the second layer be closely spaced.
- the plurality of lumber of the third layer be are spaced farther apart. The reason for this is that it was discovered that removal of the access mats from wet and swampy areas could be problematic due to water adhesion. Having the lumber of the third layer spaced apart serves to relieve surface tension of the water. It also reduces the weight of the body, as fewer lumber are used.
- connectors there are various types of connectors that are well known for access mats.
- the form of connectors used is not critical to obtaining beneficial results from the access mat.
- the preferred form of connector which will hereinafter be further described, is positioned at the ends of the body.
- the body has a first end and a second end.
- One of the connectors is a series of projecting tongues at one of the first end or the second end.
- Another of the connectors is a series of recessed tongue receivers at another of the first end or the second end.
- Each of the tongues of one access mat engage one of the tongue receivers of another access mat to connect the body with other like bodies.
- Some access mats connect at both the sides and the ends. These access mats are only intended to connect at their respective ends. The sides are allowed to “float” without connection. It will be appreciated that side connectors could be added, if desired or if the application required such side connectors.
- each of the projecting tongues secured to the body by removable fasteners. This is very useful as it enables projecting tongues to be removable to facilitate replacement of damaged tongues. If the projecting tongues could not be replaced, damage to the projecting tongues could render the access mat useless as it could no longer connect with other access mats.
- each of the projecting tongues and tongue receivers are positioned in the third layer.
- the third layer is the bottom layer.
- the first layer (which is the top layer and the travel surface) is free from any obstruction which might catch during snow removal, serve to accumulate mud or otherwise interfere with movement along the travel surface.
- the access mats are positioned using a piece of equipment referred to as a “button top grapple”.
- the button top grapple is a tracked vehicle that uses pinchers having sharp teeth to grab the mats one each side.
- Each layer has a peripheral side edge. It is preferred that the peripheral side edge of the second layer extend outwardly past the peripheral side edge of the first layer and the third layer.
- the teeth of the pinchers on the button top grapple engage these peripheral side edge projections, and this protects the first layer and the third layer from sustaining damage to their respective peripheral side edges.
- metal elements be positioned at each corner of the body to protect the body from corner damage.
- the metal elements can be as simple as some bolts strategically positioned in the corners, where fork lift impact may occur.
- FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a cross-laminated access mat.
- FIG. 2 is a bottom plan view of the access mat illustrated in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 3 is a side elevation view of the access mat illustrated in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 4 is a detailed section view of the access mat illustrated in FIG. 2 .
- FIG. 5 is a travel surface formed with a plurality of the access mat illustrated in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 6 is a graph providing a maximum load comparison between the access mat of FIG. 1 and a bolted lumber access mat.
- FIG. 7 is a graph providing a deflection comparison between the access mat of FIG. 1 and a bolted lumber access mat.
- FIG. 8 is a graph providing a stiffness after prolonged use comparison between the access mat of FIG. 1 and a bolted lumber access mat.
- FIG. 10 An access mat generally identified by reference numeral 10 , will now be described with reference to FIG. 1 through FIG. 8 .
- access mat 10 has a rectangular body 12 having a length dimension indicated by arrow 14 and a width dimension indicated by arrow 16 .
- body 12 includes three laminated layers of lumber 18 , including: a first layer 20 , a second layer 22 and a third layer 24 .
- each of lumber 18 has a longitudinal axis 26 .
- first layer 20 has a plurality of lumber 18 , with longitudinal axis 26 of each lumber 18 in a parallel orientation extending across one of length dimension 14 or width dimension 16 . An orientation across length dimension 14 has been illustrated. Referring to FIG.
- second layer 22 has a plurality of lumber 18 with a longitudinal axis 26 of each lumber 18 in a parallel orientation extending across another of length dimension 14 or width dimension 16 .
- An orientation across width dimension 16 has been illustrated, as first layer 20 was previously illustrated as being oriented across length dimension 14 .
- third layer 24 has a plurality of lumber 18 with longitudinal axis 26 of each lumber 18 in an angular orientation relative to longitudinal axis 26 of the plurality of lumber 18 of second layer 22 , the layers being laminated together by application of an adhesive and pressure. It will be appreciated that a cross-laminated access mat having more than three layers would be viable, but each layer increases weight and at some point additional layers would tend to be redundant.
- Longitudinal axis 26 of each lumber 18 of the plurality of lumber 18 of second layer 22 is in an orientation that is perpendicular to the orientation of lumber 18 of first layer 20 .
- longitudinal axis 26 of each lumber 18 of the plurality of lumber 18 of third layer 24 is in an orientation that is perpendicular to the orientation of lumber 18 of second layer 24 .
- another angular orientation such as 45 degrees, would be viable.
- diagonal orientations would tend to reduce the strength of body 12 and result in a waste of materials during manufacture. Referring to FIG. 3 , the plurality of lumber 18 of first layer 20 and the plurality of lumber 18 of second layer 22 are closely spaced.
- the plurality of lumber 18 of third layer 24 are spaced farther apart leaving a clearly discernable gap 25 .
- the reason for this is that it was discovered that removal of access mats 10 from wet and swampy areas could be problematic due to water adhesion. Having lumber 18 of third layer 24 spaced apart with a gap 25 serves to relieve surface tension of the water. It also reduces the weight of the body, as fewer lumber are used.
- Connectors are provided for connecting body 12 with other like bodies. There are various types of connectors that can be used, the form of connectors is not critical. Referring to FIG. 2 , body 12 has a first end 30 and a second end 32 . One of the connectors is a series of projecting tongues 34 , which project past first end 30 . Another of the connectors is a series of recessed tongue receivers 36 at second end 32 . Referring to FIG. 5 , each of projecting tongues 34 of access mat 10 engage one of tongue receivers 36 of another access mat to connect body 12 with other like bodies. Some access mats connect at both the sides and the ends. These access mats are only intended to connect at their respective ends 30 and 32 . The sides are allowed to “float” without connection.
- FIG. 5 access mat 10 in the foreground has been flipped over, to show the comparative spacing of third layer 24 , as compared to the spacing of lumber 18 on first layer 20 for the remaining access mats 10 .
- projecting tongues 34 and tongue receivers 36 are positioned in third layer 24 and that third layer 24 is the bottom layer.
- first layer 20 (which is the top layer and the travel surface) is free from any obstruction which might catch during snow removal, serve to accumulate mud or otherwise interfere with movement along the travel surface.
- each of projecting tongues 34 be secured to body 12 by removable fasteners. This is very useful as it enables projecting tongues 34 to be removable to facilitate replacement of damaged projecting tongues 34 . If projecting tongues 34 could not be replaced, damage to the projecting tongues 34 could render access mat 10 useless as it could no longer connect with other access mats. It is important to note that access mats 10 are made from cross-laminated lumber and do not require any fasteners.
- fasteners used to secure projecting tongues are bolts 39 having a rounded head 41 and a nut 43 secured at a remote end 45 . Remote end 45 and nut 43 are positioned in a recess 47 , so that no portion of bolt 39 projects below third layer 24 which serves as the bottom layer.
- access mats 10 are positioned using a piece of equipment referred to as a “button top grapple”.
- the button top grapple is a tracked vehicle that uses pinchers having sharp teeth to grab the mats one each side.
- each layer of body 12 has edges 38 . It is preferred that edges 38 of second layer 22 extend outwardly past side edges 38 of first layer 20 and third layer 24 to form a side edge projection 42 .
- the teeth of the pinchers on the button top grapple engage side edge projection 42 , and this protects first layer 20 and third layer 24 from sustaining damage to their respective side edges 38 .
- metal elements be positioned at each corner 46 of body 12 to protect body 12 from corner damage.
- the metal elements illustrated are bolts 48 positioned at corners 46 , to strengthen corners 46 where fork lift impact may occur.
- bolts 48 are also recessed so that they do not project below third layer 24 , which serves as the bottom layer.
- access mats 10 are more than twice the strength of bolted mats.
- access mat 10 collapsed with a weight of 58,411 lbs, while a bolted lumber access mat of the same material crumbled at just 25,550 lbs.
- FIG. 7 at the point of collapse, the bolted lumber access mat flexed 8.88′′, while access mat 10 only flexed a mere 1.60′′. The tests clearly showed the stiffness and strength of access mat 10 far exceeded that of the bolted lumber access mat.
- Access mats typically have a 14 foot length and an 8 foot width. As described above, it is preferred that cross-laminated access mats 10 be made from three layers.
- the lumber is, preferably, kiln dried and made from better quality lumber.
- the preferred type of lumber is SPF with the travel layer being of Douglas Fir.
- access mats can be used for a different purpose. For example, by adding more layers, access mat could be used to support the weight of a drilling rig or the weight of a crane.
- the number of layers from 4 to 9, depend upon the size of the drilling rig or the size of the crane.
- Access mats 10 provide the following damages, as compared to bolted lumber access mats:
- Access mats 10 are more than twice as strong.
- Access mats 10 have more than four times the stiffness.
- Access mats 10 are better able to maintain stiffness after rigorous use.
- Access mats 10 maintain shape and do not diamond or deform if mishandled.
- Access mats 10 have no bolts protruding on the travel layer, so that tire damage due to bolts is eliminated.
- Access mats 10 have an extended middle layer to minimize damage during installation and removal.
- Access mats 10 have easy to replace tongues, so that they are not put out of service by tongue damage.
- Access mats 10 are of cross-laminated lumber and are easily recycled through chipping.
- Access mats 10 are of relatively light weight, so that freight costs are reduced.
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Abstract
An access mat is described having a rectangular body with a length dimension and a width dimension. The body includes three laminated layers of lumber, with each of the lumber having a longitudinal axis. A first layer of the three layers has a plurality of lumber, with the longitudinal axis of each lumber in a parallel orientation extending across the length dimension. A second layer of the three layers has a plurality of lumber with the longitudinal axis of each lumber in a parallel orientation extending across the width dimension. A third layer of the three layers has a plurality of lumber with the longitudinal axis of each lumber in an angular orientation relative to the longitudinal axis of the plurality of lumber of the second layer. Correctors are provided for connecting the body with other like bodies.
Description
- There is described an access mat to allow access to environmentally sensitive areas, these access mats are also referred to by various other names such as: “rig mats”, “road mats”, “site mats” or “swamp mats”.
- The standard that other access mats are measured against are lumber access mats that use 160 to 200 bolts to secure the lumber together. There have been numerous attempts to replace the bolted lumber access mats with other forms of mats. To date the alternative mats have not been successful in supplanting bolted lumber access mats. There will hereinafter be described an alternative form of access mat.
- There is provided an access mat has a rectangular body having a length dimension and a width dimension. The body includes three laminated layers of lumber laminated together by an adhesive and pressure, with each of the lumber having a longitudinal axis. A first layer of the at least three layers has a plurality of lumber, with the longitudinal axis of each lumber in a parallel orientation extending across the length dimension. A second layer of the three layers has a plurality of lumber with the longitudinal axis of each lumber in a parallel orientation extending across the width dimension. A third layer of the three layers has a plurality of lumber with the longitudinal axis of each lumber in an angular orientation relative to the longitudinal axis of the plurality of lumber of the second layer. Connectors are provided for connecting the body with other like bodies.
- This cross-laminated lumber access mat was tested against bolted lumber access mat and, as will hereinafter be described, substantially out-performed the bolted lumber access mat. It is, of course, possible to fabricate a cross-laminated access mat having just two layers or more than three layers. A cross-laminated access mat having just two layers is not believed to have the requisite strength and stiffness. It would not be practical given the loads and abuse to which it would be subjected. A cross-laminated access mat having more than three layers would be viable, but each layer increase weight and at some point additional layers would tend to be redundant.
- It is preferred that the longitudinal axis of each lumber of the plurality of lumber of the second layer is in an orientation that is perpendicular to the orientation of the lumber of the first layer. It is also preferred that the longitudinal axis of each lumber of the plurality of lumber of the third layer is in an orientation that is perpendicular to the orientation of the lumber of the second layer. It will be appreciated that another angular orientation, such as 45 degrees, would be viable. However, diagonal orientations would tend to reduce the strength of the body and result in a waste of materials during manufacture.
- To facilitate lamination, it is preferred that the plurality of lumber of the first layer and the plurality of lumber of the second layer be closely spaced. However, it should be noted that it is preferred that the plurality of lumber of the third layer be are spaced farther apart. The reason for this is that it was discovered that removal of the access mats from wet and swampy areas could be problematic due to water adhesion. Having the lumber of the third layer spaced apart serves to relieve surface tension of the water. It also reduces the weight of the body, as fewer lumber are used.
- There are various types of connectors that are well known for access mats. The form of connectors used is not critical to obtaining beneficial results from the access mat. The preferred form of connector, which will hereinafter be further described, is positioned at the ends of the body. The body has a first end and a second end. One of the connectors is a series of projecting tongues at one of the first end or the second end. Another of the connectors is a series of recessed tongue receivers at another of the first end or the second end. Each of the tongues of one access mat engage one of the tongue receivers of another access mat to connect the body with other like bodies. Some access mats connect at both the sides and the ends. These access mats are only intended to connect at their respective ends. The sides are allowed to “float” without connection. It will be appreciated that side connectors could be added, if desired or if the application required such side connectors.
- One innovation in relation to the connectors is having each of the projecting tongues secured to the body by removable fasteners. This is very useful as it enables projecting tongues to be removable to facilitate replacement of damaged tongues. If the projecting tongues could not be replaced, damage to the projecting tongues could render the access mat useless as it could no longer connect with other access mats.
- It is preferred that each of the projecting tongues and tongue receivers are positioned in the third layer. The third layer is the bottom layer. When the projecting tongues and tongue receivers are positioned in the bottom layer, the first layer (which is the top layer and the travel surface) is free from any obstruction which might catch during snow removal, serve to accumulate mud or otherwise interfere with movement along the travel surface.
- At some sites, the access mats are positioned using a piece of equipment referred to as a “button top grapple”. The button top grapple is a tracked vehicle that uses pinchers having sharp teeth to grab the mats one each side. Each layer has a peripheral side edge. It is preferred that the peripheral side edge of the second layer extend outwardly past the peripheral side edge of the first layer and the third layer. The teeth of the pinchers on the button top grapple engage these peripheral side edge projections, and this protects the first layer and the third layer from sustaining damage to their respective peripheral side edges.
- At other sites, the access mats are handled by fork lifts. Fork lift engagements, can sometimes cause corner damage. It is, therefore, preferred that metal elements be positioned at each corner of the body to protect the body from corner damage. The metal elements can be as simple as some bolts strategically positioned in the corners, where fork lift impact may occur.
- Environmental disposal of access mats can be a problem. Especially bolt lumber access mats which may have welded metal frames and 160 to 200 bolts. Apart from the fasteners securing the projecting tongues and the metal elements protecting each corner of the body (optional features which may or may not be included in a customer's order), the body of the cross-laminated access mat has no metal components. Upon removal of the fasteners securing the projecting tongues and the metal elements protecting each corner of the body, the body can be disposed of on-site through chipping and spreading.
- These and other features will become more apparent from the following description in which reference is made to the appended drawings, the drawings are for the purpose of illustration only and are not intended to be in any way limiting, wherein:
-
FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a cross-laminated access mat. -
FIG. 2 is a bottom plan view of the access mat illustrated inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3 is a side elevation view of the access mat illustrated inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 4 is a detailed section view of the access mat illustrated inFIG. 2 . -
FIG. 5 is a travel surface formed with a plurality of the access mat illustrated inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 6 is a graph providing a maximum load comparison between the access mat ofFIG. 1 and a bolted lumber access mat. -
FIG. 7 is a graph providing a deflection comparison between the access mat ofFIG. 1 and a bolted lumber access mat. -
FIG. 8 is a graph providing a stiffness after prolonged use comparison between the access mat ofFIG. 1 and a bolted lumber access mat. - An access mat generally identified by
reference numeral 10, will now be described with reference toFIG. 1 throughFIG. 8 . - Referring to
FIG. 1 ,access mat 10 has arectangular body 12 having a length dimension indicated byarrow 14 and a width dimension indicated byarrow 16. Referring toFIG. 3 ,body 12 includes three laminated layers oflumber 18, including: afirst layer 20, asecond layer 22 and athird layer 24. Referring toFIG. 1 , each oflumber 18 has alongitudinal axis 26. Referring toFIG. 1 ,first layer 20 has a plurality oflumber 18, withlongitudinal axis 26 of eachlumber 18 in a parallel orientation extending across one oflength dimension 14 orwidth dimension 16. An orientation acrosslength dimension 14 has been illustrated. Referring toFIG. 3 ,second layer 22 has a plurality oflumber 18 with alongitudinal axis 26 of eachlumber 18 in a parallel orientation extending across another oflength dimension 14 orwidth dimension 16. An orientation acrosswidth dimension 16 has been illustrated, asfirst layer 20 was previously illustrated as being oriented acrosslength dimension 14. Referring toFIG. 2 ,third layer 24 has a plurality oflumber 18 withlongitudinal axis 26 of eachlumber 18 in an angular orientation relative tolongitudinal axis 26 of the plurality oflumber 18 ofsecond layer 22, the layers being laminated together by application of an adhesive and pressure. It will be appreciated that a cross-laminated access mat having more than three layers would be viable, but each layer increases weight and at some point additional layers would tend to be redundant.Longitudinal axis 26 of eachlumber 18 of the plurality oflumber 18 ofsecond layer 22 is in an orientation that is perpendicular to the orientation oflumber 18 offirst layer 20. Similarly,longitudinal axis 26 of eachlumber 18 of the plurality oflumber 18 ofthird layer 24 is in an orientation that is perpendicular to the orientation oflumber 18 ofsecond layer 24. It will be appreciated that another angular orientation, such as 45 degrees, would be viable. However, diagonal orientations would tend to reduce the strength ofbody 12 and result in a waste of materials during manufacture. Referring toFIG. 3 , the plurality oflumber 18 offirst layer 20 and the plurality oflumber 18 ofsecond layer 22 are closely spaced. In contrast, the plurality oflumber 18 ofthird layer 24 are spaced farther apart leaving a clearlydiscernable gap 25. The reason for this is that it was discovered that removal ofaccess mats 10 from wet and swampy areas could be problematic due to water adhesion. Havinglumber 18 ofthird layer 24 spaced apart with agap 25 serves to relieve surface tension of the water. It also reduces the weight of the body, as fewer lumber are used. - Connectors are provided for connecting
body 12 with other like bodies. There are various types of connectors that can be used, the form of connectors is not critical. Referring toFIG. 2 ,body 12 has afirst end 30 and asecond end 32. One of the connectors is a series of projectingtongues 34, which project pastfirst end 30. Another of the connectors is a series of recessedtongue receivers 36 atsecond end 32. Referring toFIG. 5 , each of projectingtongues 34 ofaccess mat 10 engage one oftongue receivers 36 of another access mat to connectbody 12 with other like bodies. Some access mats connect at both the sides and the ends. These access mats are only intended to connect at their respective ends 30 and 32. The sides are allowed to “float” without connection. It will be appreciated that side connectors could be added, if desired or if the application required such side connectors. InFIG. 5 ,access mat 10 in the foreground has been flipped over, to show the comparative spacing ofthird layer 24, as compared to the spacing oflumber 18 onfirst layer 20 for the remainingaccess mats 10. Referring toFIG. 2 , it should be noted that projectingtongues 34 andtongue receivers 36 are positioned inthird layer 24 and thatthird layer 24 is the bottom layer. When the projectingtongues 34 andtongue receivers 36 are positioned inthird layer 24, first layer 20 (which is the top layer and the travel surface) is free from any obstruction which might catch during snow removal, serve to accumulate mud or otherwise interfere with movement along the travel surface. Referring toFIG. 2 , it is preferred, but not essential, that each of projectingtongues 34 be secured tobody 12 by removable fasteners. This is very useful as it enables projectingtongues 34 to be removable to facilitate replacement of damaged projectingtongues 34. If projectingtongues 34 could not be replaced, damage to the projectingtongues 34 could renderaccess mat 10 useless as it could no longer connect with other access mats. It is important to note thataccess mats 10 are made from cross-laminated lumber and do not require any fasteners. Referring toFIG. 4 , fasteners used to secure projecting tongues arebolts 39 having a roundedhead 41 and anut 43 secured at aremote end 45.Remote end 45 andnut 43 are positioned in arecess 47, so that no portion ofbolt 39 projects belowthird layer 24 which serves as the bottom layer. - There are some optional features which may be added to protect access mats from damage during handling. At some sites,
access mats 10 are positioned using a piece of equipment referred to as a “button top grapple”. The button top grapple is a tracked vehicle that uses pinchers having sharp teeth to grab the mats one each side. Referring toFIG. 4 , each layer ofbody 12 hasedges 38. It is preferred that edges 38 ofsecond layer 22 extend outwardly past side edges 38 offirst layer 20 andthird layer 24 to form aside edge projection 42. The teeth of the pinchers on the button top grapple engageside edge projection 42, and this protectsfirst layer 20 andthird layer 24 from sustaining damage to their respective side edges 38. - At other sites,
access mats 10 are handled by fork lifts. Fork lift engagements, can sometimes cause corner damage. It is, therefore, preferred that metal elements be positioned at eachcorner 46 ofbody 12 to protectbody 12 from corner damage. Referring toFIG. 2 , the metal elements illustrated arebolts 48 positioned atcorners 46, to strengthencorners 46 where fork lift impact may occur. As discussed with reference tobolts 39,bolts 48 are also recessed so that they do not project belowthird layer 24, which serves as the bottom layer. - Environmental disposal of access mats can be a problem. Especially bolt lumber access mats which may have welded metal frames and 160 to 200 bolts. Apart from four
fasteners 38 securing each projectingtongues 34 and fourbolts 48 protecting eachcorner 46,body 12 ofaccess mat 10 has no metal components. Upon removal ofbolts 39 securing the projecting tongues and thebolts 48 protecting eachcorner 46,body 12 can be disposed of on site through chipping and spreading. - Comparative Testing Cross-Laminated Access Mats compared to Bolted Lumber Access Mats:
- Referring to
FIG. 6 ,access mats 10 are more than twice the strength of bolted mats. During testing,access mat 10 collapsed with a weight of 58,411 lbs, while a bolted lumber access mat of the same material crumbled at just 25,550 lbs. Referring toFIG. 7 , at the point of collapse, the bolted lumber access mat flexed 8.88″, whileaccess mat 10 only flexed a mere 1.60″. The tests clearly showed the stiffness and strength ofaccess mat 10 far exceeded that of the bolted lumber access mat. - Referring to
FIG. 8 , a further test was conducted to simulate prolonged use. Each of the access mats were tested in third point bending with a span of 144″. Each of the access mats was cycled 100 times up to 10,000 lbs. After this abuse, another stiffness test was performed. Both of the access mats were loaded to failure. The maximum load and deflection at maximum load were recorded. The tests showed the comparative deterioration of the access mats over prolonged use, withaccess mat 10 again outperforming the bolted lumber access mat. - Access mats typically have a 14 foot length and an 8 foot width. As described above, it is preferred that
cross-laminated access mats 10 be made from three layers. The lumber is, preferably, kiln dried and made from better quality lumber. The preferred type of lumber is SPF with the travel layer being of Douglas Fir. - When additional layers are added cross-laminated access mats can be used for a different purpose. For example, by adding more layers, access mat could be used to support the weight of a drilling rig or the weight of a crane. The number of layers, from 4 to 9, depend upon the size of the drilling rig or the size of the crane.
- Advantages of Cross-Laminated Access Mats compared to Bolted Lumber Access Mats:
-
Access mats 10 provide the following damages, as compared to bolted lumber access mats: - 1.
Access mats 10 are more than twice as strong. - 2.
Access mats 10 have more than four times the stiffness. - 3.
Access mats 10 are better able to maintain stiffness after rigorous use. - 4.
Access mats 10 maintain shape and do not diamond or deform if mishandled. - 5.
Access mats 10 have no bolts protruding on the travel layer, so that tire damage due to bolts is eliminated. - 6.
Access mats 10 have an extended middle layer to minimize damage during installation and removal. - 7.
Access mats 10 have easy to replace tongues, so that they are not put out of service by tongue damage. - 8.
Access mats 10 are of cross-laminated lumber and are easily recycled through chipping. - 9.
Access mats 10 are of relatively light weight, so that freight costs are reduced. - In this patent document, the word “comprising” is used in its non-limiting sense to mean that items following the word are included, but items not specifically mentioned are not excluded. A reference to an element by the indefinite article “a” does not exclude the possibility that more than one of the element is present, unless the context clearly requires that there be one and only one of the elements.
- The illustrated embodiments have been set forth only as examples and should not be taken as limiting a purposive interpretation of the claims.
Claims (16)
1. An access mat, comprising:
a rectangular body having a length dimension and a width dimension, the body having at least three cross-laminated layers of lumber laminated together by an adhesive and pressure, and each of the lumber having a longitudinal axis,
a first layer of the three cross-laminated layers having a plurality of lumber with the longitudinal axis of each lumber in a parallel orientation extending across the length dimension,
a second layer of the three cross-laminated layers having a plurality of lumber with the longitudinal axis of each lumber in a parallel orientation extending across the width dimension, and
a third layer of the three cross-laminated layers having a plurality of lumber with the longitudinal axis of each lumber in an angular orientation relative to the longitudinal axis of the plurality of lumber of the second layer.
2. The access mat of claim 1 , wherein the longitudinal axis of each lumber of the plurality of lumber of the second layer is in an orientation that is perpendicular to the orientation of the lumber of the first layer.
3. The access mat of claim 1 , wherein the longitudinal axis of each lumber of the plurality of lumber of the third layer is in an orientation that is perpendicular to the orientation of the lumber of the second layer.
4. The access mat of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of lumber of the first layer, the plurality of lumber of the second layer are closely spaced, and the plurality of lumber of the third layer are spaced farther apart than the plurality of lumber of the first layer and the plurality of lumber of the second layer.
5. The access mat of claim 1 , wherein the access mat has connectors for connecting the body with other like bodies, the body has a first end and a second end, with one of the connectors being projecting tongues at one of the first end or the second end and another of the connectors being recessed tongue receivers at another of the first end or the second end, each of the tongues engaging one of the tongue receivers to connect the body with other like bodies.
6. The access mat of claim 5 , wherein each of the projecting tongues is secured to the body by removable fasteners, such that the projecting tongues are removable to facilitate replacement of damaged tongues.
7. The access mat of claim 5 , wherein each of the projecting tongues and tongue receivers are positioned in the third layer.
8. The access mat of claim 6 , wherein, upon removal of the fasteners securing the projecting tongues, the body has no metal components, thereby facilitating on site environmental disposal through chipping.
9. The access mat of claim 1 , wherein each layer has a peripheral edge, the peripheral edge of the second layer extending outwardly past the peripheral edge of the first layer and the third layer, thereby protecting the first layer and the third layer from damages to the peripheral edge.
10. The access mat of claim 1 , wherein metal elements are positioned at each corner of the body to protect the body from corner damage.
11. The access mat of claim 10 , wherein, upon removal of the metal elements from each corner of the body, the body has no metal components, thereby facilitating on site environmental disposal through chipping.
12. An access mat, comprising:
a rectangular body having a length dimension and a width dimension, the body having three to nine cross-laminated layers of lumber laminated together by an adhesive and pressure, each of the lumber having a longitudinal axis,
a first layer having a plurality of lumber with the longitudinal axis of each lumber in a parallel orientation extending across the length dimension,
a second layer having a plurality of lumber with the longitudinal axis of each lumber in a parallel orientation extending across the width dimension, and
subsequent layers alternating between the orientation of the first layer and the orientation of the second layer.
13. The access mat of claim 1 , wherein at least one additional cross-laminated layer is added to the access mat, and a total number of cross-laminated layers ranges from 4 to 9 layers.
14. The access mat of claim 1 , wherein the access mat has connectors for connecting the body with other like bodies.
15. The access mat of claim 12 wherein the access mat has connectors for connecting the body with other like bodies.
16. An access mat comprising:
a rectangular body having a length dimension and a width dimension, the body having at least three cross-laminated layers of lumber laminated together by an adhesive and pressure, each of the lumber having a longitudinal axis,
a first layer haying a plurality of lumber with the longitudinal axis of each lumber in a parallel orientation extending across the length dimension,
a second layer having a plurality of lumber with the longitudinal axis of each lumber in a parallel orientation extending across the width dimension, and
each subsequent layer alternating between an orientation of the first layer and an orientation of the second layer.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US15/089,945 US20160222598A1 (en) | 2014-02-20 | 2016-04-04 | Access mat |
Applications Claiming Priority (5)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
CA2843105 | 2014-02-20 | ||
CA2843105A CA2843105A1 (en) | 2014-02-20 | 2014-02-20 | Access mat |
US201461943523P | 2014-02-24 | 2014-02-24 | |
US14/625,655 US9303366B2 (en) | 2014-02-20 | 2015-02-19 | Access mat |
US15/089,945 US20160222598A1 (en) | 2014-02-20 | 2016-04-04 | Access mat |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US14/625,655 Division US9303366B2 (en) | 2014-02-20 | 2015-02-19 | Access mat |
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US20160222598A1 true US20160222598A1 (en) | 2016-08-04 |
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US14/625,655 Expired - Fee Related US9303366B2 (en) | 2014-02-20 | 2015-02-19 | Access mat |
US15/089,945 Abandoned US20160222598A1 (en) | 2014-02-20 | 2016-04-04 | Access mat |
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US14/625,655 Expired - Fee Related US9303366B2 (en) | 2014-02-20 | 2015-02-19 | Access mat |
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US (2) | US9303366B2 (en) |
CA (2) | CA2843105A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US10577753B2 (en) | 2015-08-03 | 2020-03-03 | Sterling Site Access Solutions, Llc | Crane mat and method of manufacture |
CA3201987A1 (en) * | 2015-08-03 | 2017-02-09 | Sterling Site Access Solutions, Llc | Crane mat and method of manufacture |
US10287092B2 (en) | 2015-09-28 | 2019-05-14 | A.O.S Services Ltd. | Liquid containment structures and frac ponds with mat foundations |
US9909708B1 (en) * | 2016-11-30 | 2018-03-06 | Quality Mat Company | Preventing disturbances of underground conduit |
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FR1261265A (en) | 1960-03-30 | 1961-05-19 | Snecma | Take-off and landing area |
US3348549A (en) | 1964-07-06 | 1967-10-24 | Du Pont | Brassiere pad and process |
IL31940A (en) | 1968-04-05 | 1971-08-25 | Dynamit Nobel Ag | Sections from thermoplastic resins |
US4462712A (en) * | 1981-07-16 | 1984-07-31 | Quality Mat Company | Method and apparatus for a construction site flooring system |
US4594829A (en) | 1983-08-05 | 1986-06-17 | Herrgord Donald E | Joint interlocking system |
IL89005A (en) | 1989-01-19 | 1991-11-21 | Polygal | Lightweight construction panels with interconnectable edges |
US5087149A (en) * | 1989-04-14 | 1992-02-11 | Waller Jr A J | Interlocking wooden mat roadway |
US4973505A (en) | 1989-05-30 | 1990-11-27 | William Bielous | Reversible mat |
US5032037A (en) | 1990-04-12 | 1991-07-16 | Phillips Mark L | Method and apparatus for temporary matting for use at construction sites |
US5098218A (en) | 1990-07-09 | 1992-03-24 | Bull Dog Construction Co., Inc. | Method and article of manufacture for removable pavement for underground utility placement |
US5204149A (en) | 1991-01-04 | 1993-04-20 | Case Designers Corporation | Method and apparatus for making double wall containers |
DK0507415T3 (en) | 1991-04-05 | 1995-07-24 | Tufton Gmbh | Mat |
US5833386A (en) | 1995-10-25 | 1998-11-10 | Teletek Industries, Inc. | Modular roll-out portable floor and walkway |
CA2161583C (en) | 1995-10-27 | 1999-06-01 | Gordon G. Schmidt | Spill containment system |
JPH1161719A (en) | 1997-08-19 | 1999-03-05 | Miyagawa Kasei Ind Co Ltd | Connecting structure of planking |
USD402063S (en) | 1997-10-28 | 1998-12-01 | Variform, Inc. | Perimeter skirting for elevated structures |
US6021646A (en) | 1998-06-26 | 2000-02-08 | Burley's Rink Supply, Inc. | Floor system for a rink |
US6260828B1 (en) | 1998-11-17 | 2001-07-17 | Robert F. English | Prefabricated interlocking fence post |
US6324796B1 (en) | 2000-04-10 | 2001-12-04 | Homeland Vinyl Products, Inc. | Modular decking planks |
US6733206B2 (en) | 2001-05-23 | 2004-05-11 | David Stasiewich | Ground cover mat |
CA2348328C (en) | 2001-05-23 | 2002-10-22 | David Stasiewich | Road mats |
-
2014
- 2014-02-20 CA CA2843105A patent/CA2843105A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2015
- 2015-02-17 CA CA2882153A patent/CA2882153A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2015-02-19 US US14/625,655 patent/US9303366B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2016
- 2016-04-04 US US15/089,945 patent/US20160222598A1/en not_active Abandoned
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US20150233065A1 (en) | 2015-08-20 |
CA2882153A1 (en) | 2015-08-20 |
CA2843105A1 (en) | 2015-08-20 |
US9303366B2 (en) | 2016-04-05 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: STRUCTURLAM PRODUCTS LTD., CANADA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:DOWNING, WILLIAM;REEL/FRAME:038338/0903 Effective date: 20150216 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO PAY ISSUE FEE |