WO2002049498A1 - Support et structure d'ecoulement de l'eau pour paillasson - Google Patents

Support et structure d'ecoulement de l'eau pour paillasson Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2002049498A1
WO2002049498A1 PCT/US2001/048657 US0148657W WO0249498A1 WO 2002049498 A1 WO2002049498 A1 WO 2002049498A1 US 0148657 W US0148657 W US 0148657W WO 0249498 A1 WO0249498 A1 WO 0249498A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
floor mat
tacky
mat
drainage structure
layer
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2001/048657
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Ronald D. Blum
Bradley J. Blum
Dwight P. Duston
William Kokonaski
Peter W. Kopf
Original Assignee
Tech Mats Llc.
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Tech Mats Llc. filed Critical Tech Mats Llc.
Priority to AU2002230915A priority Critical patent/AU2002230915A1/en
Publication of WO2002049498A1 publication Critical patent/WO2002049498A1/fr

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L23/00—Cleaning footwear
    • A47L23/22—Devices or implements resting on the floor for removing mud, dirt, or dust from footwear
    • A47L23/26—Mats or gratings combined with brushes ; Mats
    • A47L23/266—Mats

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a floor mat. More specifically, the invention provides a floor mat that includes a cleanable portion.
  • the floor mat may also include a water dissipation component, a water absorbing component, a cushioning component, customized graphics, a transparent cleanable portion, a tacky surface on the cleanable portion, an antibacterial composition, an antifungal composition, and a fragrance.
  • the cleanable portion may be erodible and may include a plurality of cleanable reusable layers. If a tacky surface is included in the floor mat, an anti-slip feature may be associated with the tacky surface to help prevent slipping on a possibly wet tacky surface. Additionally, a sensor system may be included in the floor mat to assist a user in identifying when the floor mat may require cleaning.
  • Floor mats are known for cleaning the soles of a person's shoes who is about to enter a particular area or room.
  • One problem with floor mats in general is how to keep the floor mat sufficiently clean such that it may perform its function of cleaning the person's shoes when, by its very nature, it is purposefully dirtied when performing its function.
  • Known floor mats may be comprised of a single, unitary piece of material. Whereas these single structure floor mats may be kept clean by, for example, washing the floor mat, it may be required that the entire floor mat be removed from its location for washing and thus, the floor mat is not available where desired while the entire mat is being cleaned. Alternatively, even if the mat can be cleaned in-place, which may not be a possibility if it is located in, for example, a carpeted area, it may be inconvenient to clean the mat in-place.
  • U.S. Patent Number 3,785,102 to Amos discloses a throw-away pad comprising a plurality of stacked disposable sheets where, when a particular sheet is dirtied, the dirty sheet is removed and disposed of. The next sheet that is exposed after the dirty sheet is discarded is clean and thus, a clean surface is again available.
  • U.S. Patent Number 3,785, 102 to Amos also discloses that an adhesive can be provided on each sheet's top surface to improve its ability to remove dirt from a person's shoes. However, again, these sheets are not cleanable and therefore are not reusable.
  • U.S. Patent Number 3,717,897 to Amos et al. discloses a pad for cleaning shoes and wheels.
  • the pad includes a thin water-washable adhesive covering its upper surface for removing dirt from shoes and wheels.
  • the '897 patent discloses a pad with a water-washable adhesive upper surface, the pad is not known for use in domestic or office-type applications. As stated in the '897 patent, the pad is placed at an entrance doorway leading into a clean room.
  • Tacky floor mats are by far more popular for utilization in indoor environments that are far removed from exterior outside entrances, such as for clean rooms that are well-within the interior of the building in which they are used, e.g., hospital rooms, computer chip manufacturing spaces, and gymnasiums.
  • tacky floor mats are not known for use in areas that are adjacent to entrances that lead from the outdoor environment for cleaning the soles of a person's shoes prior to entry into the interior of a building, such as for example in an entry foyer or on an outdoor porch.
  • Tacky floor mats are not known for use in domestic or office-type applications, e.g., home or business office use, because of several known deficiencies.
  • One of these deficiencies is that their tacky surface will not be as effective if it becomes wet. Therefore, if the tacky surface floor mat was utilized in an outdoor environment, such as the outdoor porch mentioned above, or in an indoor environment that is adjacent to or near an outdoor entrance, such as an entry foyer of a home or business, for cleaning a person's shoes prior to further entering the home or business, the mat is likely to become wet and therefore not effective.
  • the mat could become wet from, for example, the moisture in the atmosphere or from moisture carried on the soles of the person's shoes who steps on the mat.
  • the tacky surface becomes wet it may become slippery and thus cause a hazard for the person who steps on it. More particularly, overthe past several decades, the adhesives that are typically used in tacky surfaces of floor mats have evolved to the point that they have been optimized through commercialization to a certain threshold of tackiness. Nevertheless, even at this optimal threshold, the tacky surface has the deficiency described above, wherein the tacky surface may become slippery when wet.
  • a floor mat with a tacky surface that can be utilized in both a wet environment and a dry environment. Additional deficiencies with using known tacky floor mats for home or office-type applications as discussed above is their likelihood of becoming trip hazards and their lack of aesthetic appeal.
  • the pad is designed for use in clean room environments, it is adhesively adhered to the passageway floor in front of the entrance doorway. This may be satisfactory for retaining the mat in-place in clean room-type of applications, however, if it was attempted to use the '897 pad on a carpeted floor, the pad would not properly adhere to the carpet and thus a trip hazard would be present. This could result in significant liability issues.
  • tacky floor mats are known only for their functional characteristics, and thus for use only in "clean room”-type applications, they are not aesthetically pleasing. Therefore, for at least the above reasons, tacky floor mats are not known for use in home or office-type applications.
  • a floor mat may be the first object that a visitor to a particular home or business encounters. As such, the owner of the home or business may want to utilize the floor mat to graphically convey an initial greeting or message to the visitor.
  • floor mats are known that may include a greeting on them, it is not currently known to allow for a particular purchaser to customize the displayed graphic so that the message is tailored to convey a particular message desired by the purchaser. For example, on Halloween the purchaser may want the floor mat to display a "Happy Halloween" message. In another situation, the purchaser may want to greet a particular visitor with a message such as "Hello, Joe".
  • the advanced floor mat ofthe present invention overcomes deficiencies in the prior art and may include a base portion which incorporates a cleanable portion that is adapted to be removably received within the floor mat.
  • the floor mat may also include features such as a water dissipation capability, a water absorbing capability, a cushioning capability, customized graphics, a transparent portion, a tacky surface on the cleanable portion, an antibacterial composition, an antifungal composition, and a fragrance.
  • the cleanable portion may include the features of being erodible and containing a plurality of cleanable reusable layers.
  • an anti-slip feature may be associated with the tacky surface to help prevent slipping on a possibly wet tacky surface.
  • a sensor system may be included in the floor mat to assist a user in identifying when the floor mat may require cleaning.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a floor mat in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention
  • Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the floor mat of Fig. 1 ;
  • Fig. 3 is an exploded side view of an alternative embodiment of the floor mat of the present invention.
  • Fig.4 is an exploded side view of an alternative embodiment of the floor mat of the present invention
  • Fig. 5 illustrates a third alternative embodiment for a tacky insert portion with an anti-slip feature for the floor mat of the present invention
  • Fig. 6 illustrates a fourth alternative embodiment for a tacky insert portion with an anti-slip feature for the floor mat of the present invention
  • Fig. 7 is a side view of the embodiment for the tacky insert portion with an anti-slip feature of Fig. 6;
  • Fig. 8 is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment for a tacky insert portion with an anti-slip feature for the floor mat of the present invention.
  • Fig.9 illustrates a sixth alternative embodiment for a tacky insert portion with an anti-slip feature for the floor mat of the present invention
  • Fig. 10 illustrates the tacky insert portion with an anti-slip feature of Fig.
  • Fig.11 illustrates a seventh alternative embodiment for a tacky insert portion with an anti-slip feature and a water dissipating capability for the floor mat of the present invention
  • Fig. 12 illustrates an alternative embodiment for a tacky insert portion and base portion with a water dissipating capability for the floor mat of the present invention
  • Fig. 13 illustrates a sensor system that may be utilized in an embodiment of the present invention
  • Fig. 14 is an embodiment for a floor mat where the tacky portion and the non-tacky portion are separable;
  • Fig. 15 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the floor mat of the present invention as being used in one step of a process for utilizing the floor mat;
  • Fig. 16 is a perspective view of the floor mat of Fig. 15 as being used in a second step of a process for utilizing the floor mat;
  • Fig. 17 illustrates an alternative embodiment for a floor mat in accordance with the present invention that includes interchangeable base portions;
  • Fig. 18 illustrates an alternative embodiment for a floor mat in accordance with the present invention that includes single sheets for the cleanable portion
  • Fig. 19 illustrates a roll of sheets that may be utilized with the embodiment of Fig. 18;
  • Fig. 20 illustrates a storage container that may be utilized with the roll of sheets of Fig. 19;
  • Fig. 21 illustrates an alternative embodiment for a floor mat in accordance with the present invention that includes a scraper movable on tracks;
  • Fig. 22 illustrates an alternative embodiment for a floor mat in accordance with the present invention that includes a scraper movable on tracks;
  • Fig. 23 illustrates an alternative embodiment for a tacky surface in accordance with the principles of the present invention
  • Fig.24 illustrates an alternative embodiment for the tacky surface of Fig. 23
  • Fig. 25 illustrates another alternative embodiment for a tacky surface in accordance with the principles of the present invention
  • Fig. 26 illustrates another alternative embodiment for a tacky surface in accordance with the principles of the present invention.
  • Fig. 27 illustrates another alternative embodiment for a tacky surface in accordance with the principles of the present invention.
  • Fig. 28A illustrates an embodiment of a floor mat support and drainage structure according to the invention.
  • Fig. 28B illustrates an alternative embodiment of the floor mat support and drainage structure
  • Fig. 28C illustrates an alternative embodiment of the floor mat support and drainage structure without a retaining reservoir
  • Fig. 28D illustrates an alternative embodiment of the floor mat support and drainage structure
  • Fig. 29 illustrates the placement of a floor mat onto the support and drainage structure
  • Fig.30 illustrates an alternative embodiment ofthe floor mat support and drainage structure, with a two-part floor mat placed therein;
  • Fig. 31 illustrates another alternative embodiment of the floor mat support and drainage structure with a two-part floor mat placed therein;
  • Fig. 32A illustrates another alternative embodiment of the floor mat support and drainage structure
  • Fig. 32B illustrates an alternative embodiment of the floor mat support and drainage structure without a retaining reservoir
  • Fig. 32C illustrates another alternative embodiment of the floor mat support and drainage structure
  • Fig. 33 illustrates a floor mat being placed onto a support and drainage structure according to an embodiment of the invention
  • Fig. 34 illustrates layers of a floor mat according to an embodiment of the invention
  • Fig. 35 illustrates the floor mat of Fig. 34 as used with an embodiment of a support and drainage structure
  • Fig.36 illustrates layers of a floor mat according to another embodiment of the invention
  • Fig. 37 illustrates the floor mat of Fig. 36 as used with an embodiment of a support and drainage structure
  • Fig.38 illustrates layers of a floor mat according to another embodiment of the invention
  • Fig. 39 illustrates the floor mat of Fig. 38 as used with an embodiment of a support and drainage structure.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a first embodiment for a floor mat 100 in accordance with the principles of the present invention.
  • floor mat 100 includes a base portion 200 and a cleanable insert portion 300.
  • cleanable portion 300 is received within base portion 200 and is removable from base portion 200.
  • FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded, perspective view of the floor mat of Figure 1.
  • base portion 200 is formed as a generally flat, planar member and defines a recess 210 within the top surface of base portion 200.
  • Base portion 200 provides sufficient weight and mass for supporting cleanable insert portion 300 and maintaining the floor mat's positioning on the surface on which it is placed.
  • Base portion 200 may include, as will be discussed below, a water dissipation capability, a water absorption capability, and a cushioning capability and may be comprised of materials such as polyurethane, polyisoprene and other cross-linked elastomeric materials, such as nylon-6, molded or woven to form a porous structure.
  • Recess 210 can be configured in any of a variety of geometric configurations, however, in the present embodiment, recess 210 is configured in a rectangular shape. Recess 210 has a length L, and a width W ⁇ The depth of recess 210 is such that it is able to receive within it cleanable insert portion 300 such that when cleanable insert portion 300 is received within recess 210, the top surface of cleanable insert portion 300 lies generally in the same plane as the top surface of base portion 200.
  • the top surface of base portion 200 may be colored with any color depending upon the desires of a particular purchaser, however, it is preferable that a color be utilized that will minimize the visibility of any dirt that is accumulated by base portion 200.
  • the base portion 200 may be either translucent or opaque.
  • the surface of base portion 200 which defines the bottom of recess 210 may include graphics 220 on that surface.
  • the graphics include pictorial representations of flowers and a text message which spells out the word "WELCOME".
  • the present invention is not limited to any particular graphic within recess 210 and the present invention may include any of a variety of different forms of graphics.
  • Graphics 220 may be modified, and thus customized, by an individual after the floor mat has been purchased by the owner.
  • the owner may customize the mat at their home or office and, thus, a graphic that may be appropriate for a particular situation may be modified by the individual for display in another situation.
  • the graphic may display a message stating "Happy Halloween” for Halloween and may be modified to display "Happy Holidays" during the winter holiday season.
  • the graphics are modifiable by a user and thus, may be customized for the particular desires of a particular user.
  • the present invention is not limited to any particular form for graphics 220.
  • the graphics 220 can be customized by a user to include any of a variety of different colors, pictures, messages, or other representations that the user may want to display.
  • the visible intensity of a color(s) can be modified. For example, a color that glows at night could be included in graphics 220 for an occasion such as Halloween.
  • Any of a variety of different types of structures or methods may be practiced in the present invention for modifying graphics 220 of floor mat 100 and the present invention is not limited to any particular methodology or structure for modifying graphics 220.
  • the various embodiments contemplated for providing a modifiable graphic display in the floor mat of the present invention can be incorporated in either, or both, of the base portion or the insert portion.
  • the graphics may consist of pre-formed messages or art forms which may be adhered to either the surface which defines the bottom of recess 210, such as by using an adhesive or fastener assembly, e.g., a hook and loop assembly, or to the underside of insert portion 300 such that, when insert portion 300 is placed within base portion 200, the graphics would be visible through a transparent insert portion.
  • a variety of different graphics may be stored within floor mat 100 such that a user is able to selectively uncover a particular graphic for display while the other available graphics remain covered within floor mat 100.
  • This type of selectability is known in other mediums where selectivity between a variety of different graphics within a common display panel is desired. For example, advertising bulletin boards at sporting events are able to selectively display a first particular message during a first particular period of time and display a second message during a second period of time on the same bulletin board.
  • a third possible alternative is to provide a modifiable display on the floor mat.
  • the display surface can be associated with either the base portion or the insert portion, e.g., on either the bottom surface of recess 210 or attached to the bottom of insert portion 300.
  • a display could be included on the front of the floor mat, on the back of the mat such that it is viewable through a transparent portion of the mat, embedded in the mat, attached to the mat, or integrally formed in the mat.
  • the display could be comprised of a small, thin box of graphics that could attach to a tacky portion and/or a base portion or any other component part ofthe floor mat.
  • a user may design and display their customized graphic and may subsequently modify that graphic such that it is replaced with another graphic.
  • a display surface such as an erasable writing board could be utilized for this purpose.
  • a modifiable electronic display surface could be provided, such as, for example, a liquid crystal display.
  • the display could be connected to a computer and a computer generated image could be displayed on the display.
  • the image displayed on the display could be modified by generating a different computer image and displaying that computer image on the display.
  • the display could be associated with base portion 200, such as included within recess 210, or could be included on a bottom surface, facing upward, of insert portion 300.
  • the display could be integrally formed with either of the base portion or the insert portion.
  • the modifiable display could utilize a plurality of different graphics that can be displayed in any of a variety of manners on the display. For example, the graphics could be displayed in a generally fixed position on the display or could scroll across the display, with both exemplary methodologies displaying multiple graphics either individually or in combination.
  • modifying the graphics 220 of floor mat 100 include using light emitting polymers to create, and thus change, graphics 220.
  • the light emitting polymers can be either applied to, attached to, or woven into the floor mat.
  • the light emitting polymers may be utilized on any portion of floor mat 100, for example, on either the base portion or the insert portion, or on any other portion of the different embodiments for the floor mat.
  • Light emitting polymers are known and described in U.S. Patents 5,945,502, 5,869,350, and 5,571 ,626, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
  • Electric paper is available from Xerox and is described in U.S. Patents 5,723,204, 5,604,027, 4,126,854, and 4,143,103, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
  • Electric paper employs thousands of tiny, electrically charged beads, called Gyricon, each about the width of a human hair, to create pixels.
  • the two-tone beads are embedded inside a liquid-filled plastic sheeting that forms the surface of the paper.
  • Electromagnetic styluses and printer-like devices can be used for getting images onto the paper.
  • Electronic ink is available from E Ink Corp., at 45 Spinelli PI., Cambridge, MA 02138.
  • Electronic ink uses a microencapsulated micromechanical display system. Tiny microcapsules are captured between two sheets of plastic to create pixels. Alternatively, the capsules may be sprayed on a surface. The result is a flexible display material. The tiny capsules are transparent and contain a mixture of dark ink and white paint chips. An electric charge is passed through the capsules. Depending on the electrostatic charge, the paint chips float at the top or rest on the bottom of each capsule. When the paint chips float at the top, the surface appears white. When they rest at the bottom, and thus under the ink, the surface appears black. Each of the two states is stable: black or white.
  • a transparent electromagnetic grid laid over the sheet's surface controls the shape of the image.
  • the display may be wirelessly connected to, for example, a computer and thus, the World Wide Web by utilizing, for example, a Motorola paging system. Text on all displays, if multiple displays are used, can be changed at once by a single editor, through a Web page.
  • a display which could utilize any of the methods discussed above for modifying the display, could be associated with any portion ofthe floor mat, such as base portion 200 within recess 210 or on a bottom surface, facing upward, of insert portion 300.
  • the display could be integrally formed with either of the base portion or the insert portion.
  • the display could be utilized in any of the embodiments disclosed herein for the floor mat of the present invention, including a floor mat that includes a tacky surface and a non- tacky floor mat embodiment.
  • base portion 200 may also include both a water dissipation component and a cushioning component.
  • the water dissipation component provides for transferring moisture from the soles of a person's shoes that is standing on floor mat 100 to reduce the degree of moisture transferred to cleanable insert portion 300 and the cushioning component provides for conforming the floor mat 100 to the shape of the person's soles such that a greater amount of the debris on the person's soles may be removed by floor mat 100.
  • the present invention is not limited to any particular structure or material for the water dissipation component and the cushioning component.
  • the water dissipation component may be comprised of any of a wide variety of known materials, such as polyamides, vinylics, and polyisoprene. It is desirable, but not required, that the water dissipation component dissipate or move the water and not retain the water. Thus, porous materials, and not hydrophilic materials, are desired.
  • the cushioning component may be comprised of any of a variety of cushioning components to include, for example, foam rubber.
  • Figure 2 also further illustrates cleanable insert portion 300.
  • cleanable insert portion 300 has a geometric shape which is complementary in size and form to the recess 210 that is formed within base portion 200. As such, cleanable insert portion 300 is able to be received securely within recess 210.
  • cleanable insert portion 300 has a length L 2 which is just slightly smaller than the length L 1 of recess 210.
  • cleanable insert portion 300 has a width W 2 which is also just slightly smaller than width ⁇ N ⁇ of recess 210.
  • an attachment mechanism may be provided such that cleanable insert portion 300 may be removably attached to base portion 200 within recess 210.
  • Any of a variety of different attachment mechanisms may be provided on the bottom surface of cleanable insert portion 300 to include, for example, a hook and loop fastener assembly or an adhesive.
  • cleanable insert portion 300 may be removed from base portion 200 such that it may be cleaned by a user and, after cleaning, be reinserted within recess 210 such that a clean surface is now provided for floor mat 100.
  • cleanable insert portion 300 may be formed from a transparent material such as hydrophilic aliphatic acrylic polymers and copolymers incorporating acrylic acid, hydroxy ethyl methacrylate, and glycerin monomethacrylate. Forming cleanable insert portion 300 of a transparent material would allow an individual to view the customized graphics that may be provided within floor mat 100, as discussed previously. Alternatively, the insert portion 300 could be opaque. Additionally, the top side of cleanable insert portion 300 may include a tacky surface. The tacky surface would provide for assisting in removing debris from the soles of a person's shoes that is standing on cleanable insert portion 300.
  • the tacky surface that is provided on the top side of cleanable insert portion 300 could be comprised of any of a variety of materials, such as polyvinyl chlorides combined with a suitable plasticizer, plasticized neoprene, polysulfides, and polyurethanes. Additionally, acrylics, such as butyl acrylate and many of its homologues, may be utilized. Again, the present invention is not limited to any particular material.
  • the tacky surface may be formed, generally, from any adhesive material. The only consideration, in this embodiment, is that the surface should maintain its tacky characteristic even after repeated cleaning cycles.
  • Insert portion 300 may be cleaned by any of a variety of methods depending upon a particular material composition for insert portion 300. For example, insert portion 300 may be cleaned by placing insert portion within a washing machine and washing insert portion 300 or insert portion 300 may be cleaned by scrubbing insert portion 300 with a scrub brush and soap and water or with a cleaning agent such as "Spic 'N Span".
  • the insert portion 300 could be cleaned by utilizing a roller that also includes a tacky surface around the circumference of the roller.
  • the tacky surface of the roller is comprised of a stronger adhesive than that of the tacky insert portion such that, as the tacky surface ofthe roller is rolled over the tacky surface of the insert portion, any dirt and debris on the tacky insert portion will be drawn off of the tacky insert portion and will adhere to the roller. In this manner, a roller with a tacky surface could be utilized to clean the tacky insert portion.
  • Floor mat 100 may also include additional features for assisting in the cleaning ofthe soles of a person standing on floor mat 100.
  • base portion 200 and/or insert portion 300 may include an antibacterial composition and an antifungal composition.
  • Antibacterial compositions such as anthraquinone derivatives of polyethylene glycol mono- and di-methacrylate could be utilized.
  • floor mat 100 would be bacteriacidal.
  • the antibacterial feature would be particularly desirable because the floor mat would be able to both clean structural debris from the soles of the person's shoes and remove any potentially harmful bacteria from the person's soles as well.
  • floor mat 100 could also be provided with a fragrance.
  • Flavones such as tricyclic molecules with aromatic substitution or organic ethers, e.g., limonoic acid, could be utilized.
  • the fragrance is transferred from floor mat 100 to the soles of the person's shoes such that any undesirable odors are favorably masked by the fragrance.
  • the present invention is not only limited to utilizing an antibacterial composition, an antifungal composition, and/or a fragrance in floor mat 100. Rather, floor mat 100 could also incorporate a variety of other substances that would assist in cleaning the soles of a person's shoes.
  • any variety of structures or methods could be utilized for associating an antibacterial composition, an antifungal composition, a fragrance, or any other composition, with floor mat 100.
  • the substances could be applied as releasable, or dissipatable, coatings to floor mat 100 or could be releasably embedded as, for example, pellets within the structure of floor mat 100 such that as pressure is applied to floor mat 100 the substances are dispensed to the soles of the person's shoes.
  • Figure 3 illustrates an alternative embodiment for floor mat 100.
  • base portion 200 may include separate layers for a water dissipation component 230 and a cushioning component 240.
  • Water dissipation component 230 in this embodiment, is disposed on a top side of the cushioning component 240.
  • the present invention is not limited to this particular embodiment for water dissipation component 230 and cushioning component 240.
  • a single hybrid structure could be utilized for base portion 200 that would include the material properties to provide for both water dissipation and conforming structure.
  • Figure 4 illustrates that the floor mat may include both a water dissipation component, or wicking layer, and a water absorbtion layer.
  • floor mat 400 includes wicking layer 410 and water absorption layer 420.
  • the wicking layer 410 could be comprised of polypropylene or olefins, or any other suitable material that has the properties of moving the water from the surface of floor mat 400.
  • the water absorption layer 420 is disposed underneath the wicking layer 410 and absorbs any water that passes through the wicking layer 410.
  • the water absorption layer 420 could be periodically removed and dried, such as by example only, in a drying machine.
  • a wicking layer 410 may be used either with or without a water absorption layer 420 and a cushioning layer, as described previously in other embodiments, and the water absorption layer 420 could be used with or without a wicking layer 410 and a cushioning layer. Additionally, both the wicking layer and/or the absorption layer and/or the cushioning layer could be used with or without a tacky portion.
  • Figure 3 also illustrates an alternative embodiment for insert portion 300.
  • the embodiment of Figure 3 for insert portion 300 is comprised of a plurality of layers.
  • layers 301-305 comprise insert portion 300.
  • Each of the layers may include a tacky surface on a top side thereof, as was described previously for insert portion 300.
  • a top-most layer e.g., layer 301
  • insert portion 300 may be cleaned by removing a top-most layer, cleaning that layer, and reinstalling that layer within recess 210.
  • each layer is described as being independently cleanable, it is not required that each individual layer be cleanable.
  • Each layer may be formed of materials as described previously when discussing the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2 for the insert portion.
  • insert portion 300 is contemplated.
  • insert portion 300 as being comprised of one or more layers with a tacky surface on a top side of the layer(s), it is not required that insert portion 300 be formed with only a tacky surface on a top side thereof.
  • an alternative embodiment for insert portion 300 could include forming insert portion 300 as a single structural member from a material which is tacky in composition throughout the entire cross-section ofthe material.
  • a material such as a blend of a noncross-linked hydrophilic thermoplastic, preferably a polyethylene glycol diacrylate with n not exceeding 15, and a hydrophobic material, such as a polyvinyl neoprene chloride, could be utilized for the insert portion of this embodiment.
  • the insert portion 300 does not necessarily have to be removed from recess 210 of base portion 200 to be cleaned.
  • Insert portion 300 could be cleaned in this alternative embodiment by eroding the top surface of the insert portion as a result of use ofthe insert portion.
  • the insert portion may be cleaned by the erosion of its top surface as the insert portion is used within floor mat 100.
  • insert portion 300 As insert portion 300 erodes, the exposed surface of insert portion 300 continues to be tacky in composition because of its uniform cross-section. As the exposed tacky surface erodes, the dirt captured by the exposed tacky surface will dissipate as a result of the erosion and thus, the erosion of the insert portion itself provides for a cleanable insert portion. Alternatively, even with a uniform cross-section of a tacky substance for insert portion 300, the user may remove insert portion 300 from recess 210 and separately clean insert portion 300.
  • the user is not required to rely solely on the erodible characteristic of insert portion 300 for cleaning of insert portion 300; rather, the user may utilize the erodible cleaning feature of the insert portion in combination with a separate cleaning step of removing the insert portion from the base portion and independently cleaning the insert portion.
  • insert portion 300 may be comprised of a variety of materials, including materials such as tacky plastics, paper, or adhesives that can be cleanable and may or may not be erodible and reusable. If paper is utilized, the insert portion may be formed as a single structural member or as a plurality of layers, as discussed previously. Additionally, the paper may include a tacky surface on a top-side thereof. The paper may be translucent, opaque, or colored, and may include a graphic display thereon.
  • the floor mat contain a water dissipation and/or absorption capability.
  • This capability is desired to help prevent the tacky surface of the insert portion from becoming excessively wet and, thus, slippery.
  • a water dissipation and/or absorbing capability could be included in the floor mat to reduce the degree of moisture on the tacky surface, this is not the only structure contemplated for preventing the tacky insert portion from becoming slippery.
  • the tacky insert portion itself could be formed to help prevent slipping.
  • Figures 5-12 and 23-27 illustrate alternative embodiments for tacky insert portion 300.
  • FIG. 5 illustrates tacky insert portion 300 as including a grid pattern 320 of channels 322 that could be comprised of a non-tacky material.
  • the channels could be either raised from the surface of insert portion 300 or could lie co-planar with the top surface of the insert portion.
  • By forming the channels of a non-tacky material even if the tacky material of insert portion 300 became wet, a user would be assisted in not slipping on the slippery, wet tacky surface of the insert portion by the presence of the non-tacky surfaces which do not become slippery when wet.
  • Figures 6 and 7 illustrate another alternative embodiment for tacky insert portion 300 which includes anti-slip particles 324, e.g., silicon or sand particles, which extend above the top surface 330 of the tacky insert portion.
  • anti-slip particles 324 e.g., silicon or sand particles
  • the anti-slip particles be comprised of a material that does not become slippery when wet and that they be exposed from the tacky surface, however, it is not required. Even if the anti-slip particles are embedded within the tacky surface, their extension above the top surface 330 of the tacky insert portion will provide a physical frictional restraint against slipping for the soles of a person's shoes who is standing on the floor mat.
  • FIG. 5 illustrates tacky insert portion 300 as including a grid pattern 320 of channels 322 that could be comprised of a non-tacky material
  • Figures 6 and 7 illustrate another alternative embodiment for tacky insert portion 300 which includes anti-slip particles 324 which extend above the top surface 330 of the tacky insert portion
  • tacky insert portion 300 could include both a grid pattern of non-tacky channels and anti-slip particles, which is not illustrated specifically in the Figures but which can be easily understood.
  • tacky portion 300 is inserted within a base portion, which may be a water absorbent border 500, and includes a plurality of apertures 342 within it.
  • a base portion which may be a water absorbent border 500
  • Each of a plurality of treads 344 which may extend upward from a base disposed underneath tacky portion 300, extend up through one of the plurality of apertures 342.
  • a top-most end of each tread extends above a top-most surface 340 of tacky portion 300.
  • the quantity and positioning ofthe treads 344 is such that the tacky portion is able to remove debris from the person's shoes and the treads 344, at least one of which is stepped upon by the person, prevents slipping of the person on the tacky portion 300 should the tacky portion 300 become slippery when wet.
  • the treads 344 may compress when stepped upon such that the top-most end of the tread is co-planar with the top-most surface 340 of the tacky portion 300. In this manner, the tread will contact the person's shoes to prevent slipping but yet not hinder contact between the person's shoes and the tacky surface of the mat, which enhances the cleaning of the person's shoes. Therefore, there is a relationship between the distance that the tread extends above the top-most surface of the tacky portion and the compressibility of the tread; a relationship which provides the functionality discussed above.
  • the treads may be configured in any shape and size. Additionally, the treads may be comprised of any material which is slip-resistant when wet, such as, for example, rubber or plastics. The treads may include grooves within them to further assist in preventing a person from slipping on the tacky portion.
  • FIGS 9 and 10 illustrate additional alternative embodiments for both the tacky insert portion 300 and the base portion 200 that help to prevent slipping on a potentially wet tacky portion.
  • tacky insert portion 300 is comprised of a plurality of layers 301 , 302, and 303. Whereas only three layers are illustrated, it can be understood that any number of layers can be utilized in the present invention.
  • tacky layers 301-303 each contain a plurality of integrally formed raised portions 300A. These raised portions can help to prevent a person from slipping on the tacky portion by providing increased friction between the top surface of the tacky layer, due to the raised portions, and the person's shoes. Thus, these raised portions can substantially reduce the potential for slipping on the tacky portion if it becomes wet.
  • the raised portion 300A can be formed in each layer in a variety of ways and the present invention is not limited to any particular method.
  • One method for forming the raised portions is to assemble the layers into a pad of layers and then insert the entire pad into a machine press.
  • One face of the press is flat and the other face, i.e., that face that is facing the non-tacky, or underside, ofthe layers, contains an array of bosses or bumps.
  • all ofthe tacky layers become embossed with the pattern on the press face, causing the raised portions, or embossed portions, in each tacky layer of the pad.
  • each embossed portion is integrally formed in each layer and is comprised of an indentation on the underside, or non-tacky side, of each layer and a raised portion on the upperside, or tacky side, of each layer.
  • the raised portions of each layer are aligned with the raised portions of each other layer. It is desirable, but not required, that the raised portions of each layer are aligned so that their shape may be easily maintained when the layers are stacked one upon another.
  • base portion 200 may also be formed to be complementary to the embossed layers.
  • the surface 200A that defines a bottom of the recess of base portion 200, which receives within it the tacky layers 300, can be formed with raised portions 200B. These raised portions are positioned so that they are aligned with the raised portions in the tacky layers. Thus, the raised portions 200B on surface 200A are positioned within the indentations in the lower-most tacky layer when the layers are inserted into the recess in the base portion. As can be understood, these raised portions help to retain and maintain the raised portions in the tacky layer(s), particularly when only the lower-most layer(s) remain in the floor mat. However, it is not required that the base portion be formed with raised portions in practicing the present invention.
  • the layers may be formed with raised portions whether or not the base portion includes complementary raised portions.
  • the tacky portion could also include a water dissipating capability.
  • the tacky portion could be comprised of a hydrophobic porous structure which would assist in dissipating water from the surface of the tacky portion.
  • Figures 11 and 12 illustrate alternative embodiments for the floor mat of the present invention that provide a water dissipating capability for the tacky portion. As will be discussed, the embodiment of Figure 11 also helps to prevent a person from slipping on a potentially wet tacky portion.
  • Figure 11 illustrates an embodiment for tacky portion 300 where the tacky layers 301 and 302 of the tacky portion define a plurality of apertures 300C therein.
  • the apertures of each layer are aligned with the apertures of each other layer.
  • the tacky portion is able to drain surface water from the top-most surface of the tacky portion, or from the soles of a person's shoes that is standing on the tacky portion, through the apertures and to the base portion, within which the layers may be positioned.
  • the base portion may include a water dissipation component and/or a water absorbing component which would move and/or absorb the surface water drained from the tacky portion through the apertures.
  • the apertures would also provide for helping to prevent slipping on a wet surface of the layers, not only by draining surface water from the surface, but by also providing for enhanced frictional contact between the shoes of the person stepping on the layer and the layer itself.
  • the apertures provide for discontinuities in the surface of the layer which would enhance the frictional contact between the person's shoes and the layer.
  • the edges of the surface ofthe layer which define the apertures would provide for this enhanced contact.
  • the person's shoes would engage with the edges, thus enhancing frictional contact for the shoes.
  • the apertures would act as a suction on the bottoms ofthe person's shoes, e.g., like suction cups. This suction caused by the apertures on the person's shoes would also help to prevent slippage on the surface of the layer.
  • FIG 12 illustrates another embodiment for the floor mat ofthe present invention that also provides a water dissipating capability for the tacky portion.
  • tacky portion 300 includes layers 301 and 302.
  • Base portion 200 defines a recess where layers 301 and 302 are disposed within the recess.
  • a surface of the base portion that defines a bottom of the recess includes a raised portion 200C at or near a center position within the recess.
  • the raised portion 200C of the base portion forms a raised portion in each of the layers.
  • the raised portion formed in the layers acts to dissipate surface water on the layers from the layers. The surface water will drain off of the layers under the force of gravity due to the raised portion.
  • any number of layers may be included in tacky portion 300 in the embodiments of Figures 11 and 12.
  • a water absorbing powder such as a talcum powder
  • the powder could either be integrated into the floor mat or be separately associated with the floor mat.
  • the talcum powder would remove moisture from the soles of a person's shoes when the person stepped into the powder and the tacky insert portion could then remove the powder from the person's soles, in addition to any dirt on the soles, when the person next steps on the tacky insert portion.
  • the present invention also provides an apparatus and method for determining when the tacky portion, or a layer in the tacky portion, should be removed for cleaning.
  • an embodiment of the present invention as illustrated in Figure 13 includes a sensor system 700 that detects the presence of a person on the floor mat 100.
  • the sensor system 700 may detect the presence of a person on base portion 200 and/or tacky portion 300. Since it is assumed that a person who steps on base portion 200 will also step on tacky portion 300, sensing the person's presence on either portion is sufficient for practicing the present invention.
  • Sensor system 700 includes a sensor 710 and a display device 720, e.g., an LED, coupled to sensor 710 and disposed on mat 100 such that it can be viewed.
  • a power source such as a battery, may be included on an underside of the floor mat.
  • sensor 710 senses the presence of a person on mat 100, e.g., in this embodiment on tacky portion 300.
  • the sensor can detect the person's presence by utilizing any of a variety of apparatuses and methods and can include sensing the pressure applied to the mat by the weight of the person standing on the mat or by sensing the motion across the surface of the mat by the movements of the person.
  • pressure sensors and motion detectors may be utilized in the present invention.
  • Sensor system 700 also determines the number of persons that have stepped on the mat 100 by counting the number of sensed presences. After the number of presences equals a defined number of presences, a signal is provided to display device 720, e.g., illuminating the LED, which indicates that the tacky portion should be removed for cleaning.
  • the present invention is not limited to removing the tacky portion at any particular number of sensed presences and the number may be adjusted based on the particular environmental conditions in which the mat is utilized. Of course, as can be understood, after the dirty tacky portion or layer is removed and/or cleaned the sensor system can be reset to begin counting the total number of presences on the newly cleaned or exposed layer.
  • Alarm device 720 can provide either a visual, audible, or vibratory signal and the present invention is not limited to providing any particular type of signal.
  • a visual signal could consist of a light that is illuminated when the floor mat should be cleaned and that is not illuminated when the floor mat does not require cleaning.
  • the light could be continuously illuminated in one of a plurality of different colors, with each color signifying a different state of cleanliness for the floor mat. For example, a green light could signify that the mat does not need cleaning. A yellow light could indicate the mat is reaching a state of dirtiness that will soon require cleaning. A red light, which could blink on and off, could signify that it is time to clean the floor mat.
  • the sensor system of the present invention may be utilized with any of the embodiments disclosed for the cleanable portion, which may or may not be an insert and may or may not include layers and a tacky surface(s), and the base portion.
  • cleanable portion 300 has been discussed as an insert portion, it is not required that cleanable portion 300 be inserted into floor mat 100. There exists many alternative possibilities for associating cleanable portion 300 with floor mat 100. For example, cleanable portion 300 could be placed on top of base portion 200 or could be positioned adjacent to base portion 200. The present invention is not limited to inserting any of the embodiments for cleanable portion 300 within base portion 200.
  • Figure 14 illustrates a tacky portion 300 and a non-tacky portion 200, which may include a water dissipation component, a water absorbing component, and a cushioning component, as discussed previously, that are separable.
  • tacky portion 300 may be bordered within a border 500, which may be water absorbent, water dissipative, and include a cushioning component, and may include a plurality of apertures 342 and treads 344 within it.
  • Tacky portion 300 can include any of the embodiments previously discussed.
  • An attachment layer 600 is positioned on an underside of both border 500 of tacky portion 300 and non-tacky portion 200.
  • the border 500 and/or non-tacky portion 200 may be releasably attached to attachment layer 600.
  • border 500, and therefore tacky portion 300, and non-tacky portion 200 are releasably attachable to each other.
  • Attachment layer 600 can be any of a variety of materials. All that is required is that the attachment layer be able to releasable join one portion of the floor mat to a second portion of the floor mat.
  • a hook and loop fastener assembly e.g., Velcro®
  • Velcro® can be used with one portion of the assembly on the attachment layer and the other portion on the underside ofthe first portion of the floor mat and the second portion of the floor mat.
  • an adhesive can be utilized to releasably join the two portions of the floor mat to the attachment layer.
  • snaps including any type of male/female connector, may be used to join the two portions to the attachment layer.
  • Figure 15 illustrates a first process step in utilizing an embodiment ofthe floor mat 100 of the present invention.
  • an embodiment of floor mat 100 includes a base portion 200 and an insert portion 300.
  • a different graphic display 220 is present in the embodiment of Figure 15 than was illustrated in the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2.
  • Figure 15 displays a "Hello" message with "smiley face” representations in the graphic 220.
  • base portion 200 may include a water dissipating and/or absorbing component and is thus able to assist in removing any moisture from the soles of the person's shoes.
  • base portion 200 in one embodiment, also includes a cushioning component, base portion 200 conforms to the person's soles when the person steps upon base portion 200.
  • an antibacterial composition, an antifungal composition, a fragrance, or any other cleaning substance may also be associated with floor mat 100 and applied to the soles of the person's shoes when the person applies pressure to floor mat 100.
  • the second process step in utilizing the present invention includes the person stepping onto insert portion 300 of floor mat 100.
  • insert portion 300 may include a tacky surface on a top side thereof for assisting in removing debris from the soles of the person's shoes. Additionally, antibacterial compositions, antifungal compositions, fragrances, or other cleaning compositions may also be included within insert portion 300 for dispensing to the soles of the person's shoes.
  • the user then steps off of floor mat 100.
  • floor mat 100 may be cleaned after an accumulation of dirt on insert portion 300 by any of the methods described previously.
  • Insert portion 300 may be removed from base portion 200 and cleaned, a layer may be removed from insert portion 300 to be cleaned or discarded, or insert portion 300 may be cleaned through erosion of insert portion 300.
  • the present invention is not limited to any particular methodology for cleaning insert portion 300 of floor mat 100.
  • FIGS 17-22 illustrate further alternative embodiments for the floor mat of the present invention.
  • floor mat 1700 in this embodiment for the floor mat, floor mat 1700 includes a cleanable portion 1710 and a plurality of base portions 1720A-D.
  • cleanable portion 1710 is positioned within one of base portions 1720A-D.
  • the base portions 1720A-D can be formed in any of a variety of physical configurations and can include any of a variety of themes, graphics, or colors.
  • a common cleanable portion 1710 may be utilized with a variety of base portions 1720A-D.
  • Figures 18-20 illustrate another alternative embodiment for a floor mat
  • floor mat 1800 also includes a cleanable portion 1810 and a base portion 1820.
  • cleanable portion 1810 is received within base portion 1820.
  • cleanable portion 1810 is comprised of a single sheet 1810A.
  • the single sheet 1810A may be tacky on a top-side thereof and may include apertures therein to receive anti-slip nipples though it, as was also discussed previously.
  • the single sheet 1810A in this embodiment, may be removed and replaced with another sheet when dirty.
  • Figure 19 illustrates that a plurality of sheets 1810B-D, may be attached to each other and rolled into a roll 1830 of sheets. The sheets can be joined to each other at a perforated joint to provide for ease in separating a sheet from the roll of sheets. As can be understood, a sheet may be separated from the roll of remaining sheets and may be then inserted into base portion 1820.
  • Figure 20 illustrates that the roll of sheets 1830 may be stored in a storage device 1840, such as, for example, by mounting the roll of sheets 1830 on a cabinet door, which may be located in proximity to the floor mat. In this manner, replacements sheets are easily organized and stored for use.
  • a storage device 1840 such as, for example, by mounting the roll of sheets 1830 on a cabinet door, which may be located in proximity to the floor mat. In this manner, replacements sheets are easily organized and stored for use.
  • the sheets could be folder one upon another such that they form a flat package.
  • the package of sheets could then be stored underneath ofthe floor mat 1800 where individual sheets could be removed from the package and from under the floor mat, when needed, similar to the way a Kleenex® tissue is dispensed.
  • FIG. 21 illustrates another alternative embodiment for a floor mat in accordance with the present invention.
  • Floor mat 2100 also includes a cleanable/scrapable portion 2110 and a base portion 2120.
  • cleanable portion 2110 is formed, as discussed previously in this application, as a single structural member from a material which is tacky in composition throughout the entire cross-section of the material. As was also discussed previously, by forming portion 2110 from a uniform, tacky material, the portion 2110 does not necessarily have to be removed from the base portion 2120 to be cleaned. However, in the embodiment previously discussed, the cleanable portion 2110 could be cleaned by eroding the top surface of the insert portion as a result of use of the insert portion. In the embodiment of Figure 21 , the cleanable portion is cleaned by scraping off a top surface of approximately 2-3 microns from the cleanable portion 2110 by utilizing a scraper 2130.
  • Scraper 2130 can include any of a variety of structures, however, all that is required is that the scraper be capable of removing a top surface from cleanable portion 2110.
  • any type of scraping surface can be utilized in scraper 2130, such as, for example, a dull knife, a razor, or a plane.
  • Scraper 2130 is movable on tracks 2140, 2145.
  • Tracks 2140, 2145 are adjacent to cleanable portion 2110 and base portion 2120.
  • Scraper 2130 may include wheels or other structures, e.g., pins, which are received within complementary structures, e.g., grooves, in tracks 2140, 2145.
  • the scraper 2130 is movable across cleanable portion 2110 on tracks 2140, 2145.
  • the scraper 2130 may only include a scraping surface on the portion of scraper 2130 that is movable across cleanable portion 2110. Additionally, it is not required that two tracks be utilized. The scraper could be movable within a single track.
  • Scraper 2130 may be moved by any of a variety of methods, including using the foot of a user to engage with the scraper to move the scraper on the tracks.
  • Floor mat 2100 also includes a catch basin 2150 that may be included at one or both ends of tracks 2140, 2145.
  • Catch basin(s) 2150 includes a recess into which is deposited the shavings from cleanable portion 2110 after scraper2130 scrapes the cleanable portion.
  • Scraper 2130 moves the shavings off of the cleanable portion and into the catch basin 2150.
  • the shavings from the cleanable portion deposited into the catch basin may be removed from the catch basin in any of a variety of ways, including, for example, by vacuuming the shavings from the catch basin or removing a detachable catch basin, throwing away the contents from the catch basin, and reinstalling the catch basin.
  • the scraper is commensurately lowered on tracks 2140, 2145 such that the surface of the scraper that engages with the cleanable portion remains engaged with the cleanable portion.
  • the scraper may be mounted on a ratchet mechanism such that, as the scraper is moved across a complete width of the floor mat, the scraper actuates the ratchet such that the ratchet lowers the scraper.
  • the scraper could remain in the same relative position with respect to the tracks and the tracks could be ratcheted lower with respect to the base portion and cleanable portion.
  • the blade surface of the scraper could be lowered with respect to the scraper's structure such that the blade is moved relative to the cleanable portion and the base portion but the scraper remains in the same relative position with respect to the tracks and the cleanable portion and the base portion.
  • FIG. 22 illustrates an embodiment for floor mat 2200 that includes a cleanable portion 2210 without use of a base portion. Cleanable portion 2210 is adjacent to tracks 2240, 2245. Scraper 2230 is movable on tracks 2240, 2245. A catch basin 2250 may be included at one or both ends of tracks 2240, 2245.
  • a dual chemistry may be used for the tacky surface.
  • the dual chemistry combines adhesive compositions of two different types. Adhesive compositions of one type are optimally adhesive when dry. Adhesive compositions of the other type are optimally adhesive when wet. In combination, the adhesive compositions ofthe two types can be used to provide a top exposed surface that is optimally tacky both when wet and when dry. Thus, when a person's shoe comes in contact with the top exposed surface, the surface provides good tackiness when the surface is either dry or wet, and helps to prevent the person from slipping when the surface is wet.
  • optical tacky as used in the foregoing, it is meant that, while either of the two types of adhesive compositions may retain some tackiness when either dry or wet, one type has a best or serviceable level of tackiness under dry conditions, while the other type has a best or serviceable level of tackiness under wet conditions.
  • a material that comprises the two types of adhesive compositions and presents the top exposed tacky surface that comes in contact with a shoe could assume a variety of embodiments.
  • the dual-chemistry top exposed tacky surface could be the surface of a tacky "insert” or "portion,” such as insert 300 described in the foregoing, designed to cooperate with a non- tacky base portion.
  • the dual-chemistry top exposed tacky surface might not be a surface of a tacky "insert” or "portion" as such. Rather, the dual- chemistry top exposed tacky surface could be the substantially the entirety of the usable surface of an independent floor mat.
  • a separate structural member for an anti- slip component does not need to be used in conjunction with the tacky surface to prevent slipping on the tacky surface when the tacky surface becomes wet.
  • a separate structural member for an anti-slip component could be used with the tacky surface.
  • the material that presents the tacky surface comprises a combination of components having chemistries that respectively are optimally tacky when dry or optimally tacky when wet, such that the combination as a whole presents a top exposed tacky surface that retains a serviceable level of tackiness when either wet or dry. More particularly, when the tackiness of components having a chemistry which is optimally tacky when dry is reduced due to the presence of moisture, the loss of tackiness is compensated for by the components having a chemistry which is optimally tacky when wet. On the other hand, when the tackiness of components having a chemistry which is optimally tacky when wet is reduced due to the absence of moisture, the loss of tackiness is compensated for by the components having a chemistry which is optimally tacky when dry
  • Fig.23 illustrates one possible embodiment of a multi-layer assembly 10 including a material that presents a top exposed tacky surface that is tacky when either wet or dry.
  • the layers include a top layer 11 , which comprises a material that presents a top exposed tacky surface that is tacky both when wet and when dry.
  • the material comprises at least three types of distinct "domains.”
  • a "domain,” with respect to a composition of the top layer 11 refers to a discrete constituent segment of the top layer with chemical properties distinct from other discrete constituent segments.
  • the domains in top layer 11 include a tacky domain with pressure- sensitive adhesive characteristics and high surface energy.
  • This tacky domain could comprise, for example, copolymers of alkyl methacrylates and difunctional co-monomers such as acrylamides, epoxy acrylates, or urethane terminated acrylates and pressure-sensitive polysiloxane derivatives.
  • a second domain ofthe top layer 11 is a non-tacky hydrophobic domain of low surface energy.
  • This non-tacky hydrophobic domain could comprise, for example, polyalkyl fluroacrylates, acrylic terminated fluoroacrylamides, or fluorosulfonamides, polysiloxanes derivatized with one or two acrylate groups, celluloses derivatized with acrylates, styrene butadiene copolymers or acyclic acrylates or methacrylates.
  • the methacrylates could include, for example, cyclohexane methacrylate, norbornene methacrylate, or isobornyl methacrylate.
  • a third domain of the top layer 11 is a hydrophilic domain.
  • the hydrophilic domain could comprise, for example, hydroxyethyl methacrylate, polyacrylic and methacrylic acids and their salts, polyvinyl alcohol, polyoxymethylenes, polyamides, polyesters and polyimides of unsaturated dicarboxylic acids.
  • tacky domains could be cross-linked, and hydrophilic domains could be cross-linked, with a cross-link density, respectively, ranging from 5-20 mole per cent.
  • the material of the top layer is either in an elastomeric or a leathery state in a range of temperatures in which the floor mat would be in service. A desired range of glass transition temperatures is 5-25 °C.
  • a plurality of tacky domains are interspersed with a plurality of hydrophilic domains.
  • the hydrophilic domains modulate the overall tackiness of the top layer 11 , by causing a tackiness ofthe top layer 11 in a dry state to be substantially equal to a tackiness of the top layer 11 in a wet state.
  • a function of the hydrophobic domains of low surface energy is to prevent the formation of a continuous film of water over the top layer, and therefore increase the rate of drainage.
  • the hydrophobic domains also enhance the pressure dependency of the tackiness of the top layer, thereby reducing tackiness in the absence of a force. This can help to prevent excessive tackiness when pressure is applied as the floor mat is actually being used, and to prevent the tacky surface collecting an excessive amount of airborne particulate matter.
  • the overall morphology of polymeric layer 11 is miceller, with the hydrophobic domains being substantially at or near the surface of the layer, and the hydrophilic and tacky domains being substantially below the surface of the layer.
  • the hydrophilic and the tacky domains migrate to the surface under wet conditions, and together, provide the tackiness needed to attract dirt, bacteria and the like from footwear or other surface to be cleaned, and to help prevent slipping on the tacky surface when it is wet.
  • domain formation can be enhanced through the use of solvent-induced crystallization.
  • further enhancements may be possible through selective orientation of the domains during the extrusion, laminating or application process of the top layer 11.
  • the multi-layer assembly 10 could also include at least one hydrophobic layer 12.
  • the hydrophobic layer 12 could be adjacent to the top layer 11.
  • the hydrophobic layer 12 could be made of a hydrophobic copolymer. Examples of such a hydrophobic copolymer include methyl methacrylate copolymers, a styrene butadiene co-polymer, and polyalkyl or polyaryl siloxanes.
  • the hydrophobic layer 12 could be bonded to the top layer 11 by means of, for example, an acrylic adhesive.
  • the glass transition temperature of the hydrophobic layer may be in the range 5-150 °C.
  • the hydrophobic layer 12 is designed to efficiently transport water from the top layer 11.
  • the composition of the hydrophobic layer 12 is selected to minimize solubility of water and maximize its diffusivity in the hydrophobic layer 12.
  • Polysiloxanes as constituents of the hydrophobic layer 12 are especially desirable from this point of view. It is also important to minimize the swelling characteristics of the hydrophobic layer 12 in the presence of water, because the desired function of this layer is to promote drainage and remain relatively dry.
  • the hydrophobic layer 12 may be adjacent to a hydrophilic layer 13 made of polyvinyl alcohol, polyoxymethylenes, polyhydroxy esters or amides.
  • the cross-link density of this hydrophilic layer 13 could be between 10-30 mole per cent, and its glass transition temperature could be in the range -30 °C to 10 °C.
  • the hydrophilic layer 13 is capable of absorbing water transported to it by the hydrophobic layer 12.
  • the hydrophilic layer 13 may be adhesively bonded to adjacent layers. Absorption of water by the hydrophilic layer increases its thickness.
  • the composition and cross-link density of the hydrophilic layer may be selected so that this layer can hold up to twice its weight in water (swelling ratio 200%>).
  • a function of the hydrophilic layer is to act as a reservoir of water, when removal of water through evaporation is slow. Atthe same time, the cross-link density and functionality of the hydrophilic layer is carefully controlled so that it does not unduly retain moisture.
  • the multi-layer assembly 10 could further include a bottom layer 14 for contact with a floor.
  • the bottom layer 14 could be made of a wear-resistant, anti-skid polymer such as a polyurethane, a styrene butadiene copolymer, or a polycarbonate. Other materials suitable for forming the bottom layer 14 include acrylic terminated aromatic polyurethanes and epoxides.
  • the bottom layer 14 could generally be cross-linked highly (e.g., 10-50 mole percent), and its glass transition temperature, when measurable, could be below 5 °C and in any case below 10C.
  • the bottom layer 14 could be formed so as to have a high surface energy, so that it does not lose all affinity to a floor surface even in the presence of a film of water on the floor surface.
  • the bottom layer 14 could be especially useful if the multi-layer assembly 10 were being used as an independent floor mat. On the other hand, if the multi-layer assembly 10 were being used as an insert in combination with a non-tacky portion, the bottom layer 14 might not be present. Instead, an adhesive might be used on a surface of hydrophilic layer 13 for contacting the non-tacky portion, to ensure adhesion of the multi-layer assembly 10 to the non-tacky portion.
  • the top layer 11 could be about 50-500 microns in thickness.
  • the hydrophobic layer 12 could be about 100-1000 microns in thickness, and the hydrophilic layer 13 could be about 250-1500 microns in thickness.
  • the bottom layer 14 could be approximately 250-1000 microns in thickness.
  • the multi-layer assembly 10 could be embossed with a pattern to increase surface area, and could be perforated with a pattern of holes (2-10 mm in diameter) to provide drainage.
  • a multi-layer assembly 10 could be assembled by manufacturing each of the above-described layers separately, and then bonding them together using conventional processes.
  • the top layer 11 could be fabricated first, and then the other layers could be successively applied or bonded to the top layer 11 and to each other.
  • the top layer 11 could comprise a material having a uniform composition.
  • uniform composition it is meant that the material is not divided into domains, but instead is more finely grained such that the material has chemical properties that are substantially constant throughout the material. The chemical properties are such that the material can absorb water while retaining tackiness.
  • the material of uniform composition in top layer 11 could be made of polymers, such as block copolymers or a grafted copolymer.
  • the polymers could be pressure-sensitive adhesives coated or grafted with hydrophilic monomers followed by a further grafting of a fluoroacrylate.
  • the material of uniform composition could comprise a mixture of pressure-sensitive adhesives with hydrophilic fillers such as fibers or microspheres to bind water.
  • Figure 24 illustrates one embodiment of a perforation pattern formed in a multi-layer assembly 15 comprising four layers as described above. Circular holes 16 are punched, cut, or drilled through all four layers. While circular holes are shown by way of example, the holes could be of any arbitrary shape.
  • Additional embodiments of the present invention could utilize two fundamentally different adhesive compositions arranged in some arbitrary pattern.
  • a first adhesive composition could be pressure-sensitive and tacky when dry.
  • a second adhesive composition could be hydrophilic and tacky when wet.
  • the pattern could be a pattern of regions of the first adhesive composition alternating with the second adhesive composition.
  • tacky-when-dry adhesives include poly(ethylene-co-vinylacatate) and polyvinylbutyral.
  • tacky-when-wet adhesives include mixtures containing natural and synthetic rubbers in the presence of plasticizers mixed with hydrocolloid gums and the following class of chemistries: co-polymers of two amino ethyl ethacrylate and nbutly methacrylate.
  • Figure 25 illustrates a perspective view of a cross section of a multi-layer assembly 17 utilizing two fundamentally different adhesive compositions as described above.
  • a top layer 18 comprises a checkerboard pattern 19 of tacky- when-wet adhesives alternating with tacky-when-dry adhesives.
  • the checkerboard pattern is shown only by way of example and other alternating patterns are contemplated in the present invention.
  • a bottom layer 20 is a wear-resistant anti-skid layer for contacting a floor. The bottom layer 20 could be especially useful if the multi-layer assembly 17 were being used as an independent floor mat. On the other hand, if the multi-layer assembly 17 were being used as an insert in combination with a non-tacky portion, the bottom layer 20 might not be present.
  • FIG. 26 is perspective view of a cross section of a multi-layer assembly 21 illustrating yet another embodiment of the present invention.
  • a top layer 22 comprises a tacky-when-dry adhesive.
  • a second layer 23 comprises a hydrophilic tacky-when- wet adhesive.
  • a bottom layer 24 is a wear-resistant anti-skid layer for contacting a floor.
  • Holes 25 are formed in the top layer 22 to enable contact by the sole of a shoe or other surface to be cleaned with the tacky-when-wet adhesive at the same time that the tacky-when-dry adhesive is contacted. Since the second layer 23 is also hydrophilic, it will swell and fill the holes 25 when wet, providing greater access to the tacky-when-wet adhesive of layer 23 by a surface to be cleaned, such as the sole of a shoe.
  • Fig. 27 illustrates another embodiment wherein the material that presents the top exposed tacky surface has a substantially uniform composition.
  • the material comprises a blend of materials that are tacky when dry with materials that are tacky when wet.
  • the tacky-when-wet materials include certain hydrocolloid gums (e.g., gaur gum, locust bean gum, and the like). Since these hydrocolloid gums have a large capacity for absorbing moisture, they should provide good wet adhesive or tackiness.
  • the tacky-when- dry materials which are also pressure-sensitive, could include synthetic and/or natural rubbers in the presence of plasticizers.
  • the synthetic and/or natural rubbers could be, for example, polyisobutylenes, natural rubber, silicone rubbers, acrylonitrile rubbers, polyurethane rubbers, butyl rubber elastomer, and the like.
  • the strength and uniformity of a blend of tacky-when-wet and tacky- when-dry materials as described above could be increased by the introduction of a cohesive strengthening agent to the blend.
  • the cohesive strengthening agent could, for example, be one or more of natural and artificial fibrous materials such as wood cellulose, cotton, or Dacron.
  • a top layer 27 of a multi-layer assembly 26 comprises a blend of pressure-sensitive dry adhesive with a hydrocolloid gum, mixed with a cohesive strengthening agent. Due to the cohesive strengthening agent, a surface 28 of the top layer 27 has a uniform appearance of a single material.
  • a bottom layer 29 is a wear-resistant anti-skid layer for contacting a floor. The bottom layer 29 might not be present if the layer 27 is being used as an insert. Any of the materials that present a top exposed tacky surface that is tacky both when wet and when dry as described above could be used in combination with each other, or in combination with any of the other layers described. For example, either of layers 18 or 27 could be used in combination with a hydrophobic layer and a hydrophilic layer.
  • a water drainage capability is provided to alleviate undesirable effects of moisture which may become trapped in the mat. Trapped moisture in the mat could cause mold, bacteria, or algae to form. Such molds, bacteria, and algae are often the source of certain allergic reactions and other illnesses experienced by people. Besides the potential risk of illness, the trapped moisture can also cause an unpleasant odor near and around the mat.
  • Figure 28A an example of a mat support and drainage structure
  • the mat support and drainage structure includes support members 31 to support a floor mat placed thereon and keep it substantially level.
  • the support members 31 may be radially arranged. Upper surfaces of the support members 31 for contacting a mat placed thereon are substantially co-planar. Between pairs of support members, there is a sloping plane or surface 32 for directing water that comes into contact with the surface downward, allowing the water to drain to edges of the mat support and drainage structure.
  • Embodiments may include a retention reservoir 33 near one or more edges of the mat support and drainage structure. Walls 112 may be arranged on sides of the sloping surfaces and support members. In other embodiments, as illustrated in Figure 28C and Figure 32B, the retention reservoir is not utilized.
  • a bevel 111 may be formed in the walls 112 to prevent people from tripping over the mat support and drainage structure.
  • the slope and extent of the bevel may vary depending upon the height and size of the mat support and drainage structure.
  • the bevel shown is only an example; other bevel shapes and sizes are also possible and are well known to those skilled in the art.
  • the mat support and drainage structure 30 can be made from any number of materials, for example, plastic or rubber.
  • the mat support and drainage structure 30 could be molded, thermoformed, stamped or otherwise manufactured depending upon the choice of material, and the number of pieces to be manufactured.
  • FIG 28B illustrates another possible embodiment for a mat support and drainage structure.
  • the mat support and drainage structure 34 comprises walls 35 with a plurality of sloping surfaces 36 that provide water drainage due to gravity.
  • a plurality of sloping surfaces such as surfaces 36 may be referred to herein as a "gravitating portion.”
  • Surfaces 36 are supported by support members 37 positioned between a surface 99 of the mat support and drainage structure, and the sloping surfaces.
  • upper surfaces of support members 37 are substantially co-planar with sloping surfaces 36 (i.e., the support members do not extend beyond a plane of the sloping surfaces as in the embodiment of Figure 28A). As moisture comes into contact with surfaces 36, it will run down these surfaces and into a retention reservoir 38 which circumscribes the gravitating portion of the mat support and drainage structure 34.
  • a mat placed on mat support and drainage structure 34 is supported by an apex 100 formed by adjoining surfaces 36, and by walls 35 of the mat support and drainage structure.
  • Transverse members may be added to provide additional support for the mat. This additional support is not necessarily required for smaller mats of relatively rigid construction.
  • Figure 28C illustrates an example where the mat support and drainage structure does not have a retaining reservoir.
  • the mat support and drainage structure 39 is constructed so that the water flows freely out one or more ends 40 of the mat support and drainage structure.
  • This type of base would preferably be used with mats designed for outdoor use.
  • a gravitating portion was described as being supported by support members.
  • a gravitating portion could also be constructed from a single piece of material with varying thickness to create the desired gravitating water flow. Although such construction could require more material, such construction may be simpler to manufacture.
  • An example of a mat support and drainage structure including a one-piece gravitating portion is illustrated in Figure 28D.
  • a gravitating portion 3001 is fabricated from a single piece of material having a thickness that decreases toward edges 3003 thereof.
  • the single piece of material could have a maximum thickness at an apex 3002 at or near a center thereof.
  • the single pieces of material thereby presents two adjoining sloping surfaces forming an apex, for directing water coming into contact therewith downward.
  • the mat support and drainage structure 3000 would support a mat placed thereon at the apex 3002 of the gravitating portion 3001 and at walls 3004.
  • Transverse members 3005 may be utilized as additional support for the mat if the mat is particularly large.
  • the mat support and drainage structure 3000 is shown with a retaining reservoir 3006 but this is may not be required where the mat is used outdoors.
  • Shapes for a gravitating portion other than that illustrated for gravitating portion 3001 are also suitable for water drainage as described above. For example, an inverted bowl or a 3-or-more-sided pyramid are just a few other shapes that could perform a gravitating function for water drainage as described.
  • Figure 29 illustrates placement of a mat onto one of the mat support and drainage structures described by, for example, Figures 28A-D.
  • a mat 42 is sized for the mat support and drainage structure 43 such that the only exposed area of the mat support and drainage structure 43 is a section of retention reservoir on ends of the mat 42.
  • the sizing of the mat 42 allows the water to evaporate from the exposed retention reservoir rather than staying trapped under the mat.
  • this exposed retention reservoir may not be required and, in such cases, the mat 42 could be sized to extend over the entire top exposed surface of the mat support and drainage structure.
  • walls of the mat support and drainage structure could be removed from sides of the mat support and drainage structure, allowing water to run onto, for example, outdoor steps or an outdoor walkway where the water is not likely to cause any damage. It should be noted, however, that a retention reservoir can be used outdoors as well.
  • Mat 42 could be embodied in any of a variety of forms that cooperate with the mat support and drainage structure.
  • Mat 42 could be, for example, any commercially available floor mat.
  • mat 42 could be any of the embodiments of a floor mat as described herein, or components of a floor mat as described herein.
  • mat 42 could comprise solely a tacky portion, solely a non-tacky portion, or could be a combination of a tacky portion and a non-tacky portion.
  • mat 42 could be either a single layer or a multilayer mat comprising a tacky-when-dry and tacky-when-wet material as described above.
  • Mat 42 could include a base portion.
  • the mat support and drainage structure could be separable from any of the embodiments ofthe mat 42 as described, or could be integrally formed with the mat 42.
  • FIG 30 illustrates still further alternative embodiments according to the invention.
  • a mat arrangement 44 comprises a non-tacky portion 45 and a tacky portion 49 cooperating with a mat support and drainage structure 46.
  • non-tacky portion 45 which may have water-absorptive and water-wicking properties, is positioned over gravitating portion 47 of mat support and drainage structure 46.
  • a substantially planar section 48 ofthe mat support and drainage structure 46 adjacent to gravitating portion 47 is configured to receive a tacky portion 49.
  • the tacky portion 49 could be a single layer or a plurality of layers, and cover only a portion of the planar section 48.
  • the plurality of layers could be separable, disposable tacky sheets.
  • a recess could be formed in planar section 48, configured to receive either a single-layer or multiple-layer tacky portion 49.
  • the tacky portion 49 either as a single layer or a plurality of layers, could extend over the entirety of the planar section 48 and abut non-tacky portion 45.
  • a mat for cooperating with a mat support and drainage structure 46 need not be separate non-tacky and tacky portions as illustrated in Figure 30. Instead, a mat for cooperating with a mat support and drainage structure 46 could be a single integrated piece, with a non-tacky, water absorbing portion configured to be positioned over gravitating portion 47, and a tacky portion configured to be positioned over planar section 48.
  • the non-tacky, water-absorptive portion By positioning the non-tacky, water-absorptive portion over the gravitating portion as described above, water that drains from the water- absorptive portion may be stored in the mat support and drainage structure until it evaporates or is otherwise removed. Meanwhile, the tacky portion may stay relatively dry, by virtue of the absorptive portion of the mat being placed in front of the tacky portion, with respect to a person approaching the mat.
  • both the tacky and non-tacky portions could be positioned over the gravitating portion.
  • Figure 31 illustrates such an arrangement.
  • a mat arrangement 50 includes both a non-tacky water-absorptive portion 51 and a tacky portion 52 being positioned over a gravitating portion 53 of a mat support and drainage structure 54, which may include a water-retaining reservoir.
  • Tacky portion 52 could be a single layer or a plurality of layers as described above. Tacky portion 52 could also have water wicking or absorbing features such that it would pass water to the support and drainage structure below. Non-tacky portion 51 and tacky portion 52 could be a single integrated piece.
  • the mat support and drainage structures could be used with multiple mats as they wear out and are replaced over time.
  • a mat support and drainage structure 55 comprises an A-frame structure formed from two sloping surfaces 57 arranged to form an apex 101 at or near a center of the mat support and drainage structure. Water that comes into contact with the A-frame structure drains into water retention reservoirs 58 on ends of the mat support and drainage structure 55 through a gravitating action as described above.
  • the mat support and drainage structure may also be formed with additional transverse members 59 to provide additional support to a mat placed thereon. Again, ifthe mat is reasonably small and rigid, crossing members may not be necessary.
  • the mat support and drainage structure may not require a retaining reservoir.
  • a retaining reservoir Such an example is illustrated in Figure 32B.
  • the mat support and drainage structure 60 has no retaining reservoirs and the water is free to flow out one of more ends 61 of the mat support and drainage structure.
  • the mat support and drainage structure may be a quadrilateral with two long sides and two short sides.
  • the short sides may be referred to herein as "ends."
  • a distance between the two long sides is a width of the mat support and drainage structure
  • a distance between the two ends is a length of the mat support and drainage structure.
  • two sloping surfaces 63 are arranged to form an apex at or near a center region (with respect to the ends) of the mat support and drainage structure.
  • a non-sloping planar perimeter 103 ofthe A-frame structure extends between the A-frame structure and walls of the mat support and drainage structure. Water flowing down from the two slanting surfaces 63 would be retained in the non-sloping planar perimeter between the A-frame structure and the walls.
  • the A-frame structure could extend across the entire width ofthe mat support and drainage structure. In this embodiment, the only retaining reservoirs would be at the ends of the mat support and drainage structure.
  • Figure 33 illustrates the placement of the top portion of a mat 66 onto a mat support and drainage structure 67.
  • the mat may be sized so that, when placed on the mat support and drainage structure 67, the only exposed area of the mat support and drainage structure is a small section of reservoir on either end. This is to allow the water to evaporate rather than staying trapped under the mat.
  • a mat 68 is illustrated as primarily a two-layer system.
  • a top layer of the mat may comprise, for example, a tacky-when-dry and tacky-when-wet material as described above. However, the top layer is not limited to any particular kind of material.
  • a bottom layer can be a flexible or rigid material with a channel formed in an upper surface thereof adjacent the top layer, and extending along a width ofthe mat.
  • An enlarged sectional view 3434 illustrates the placement of perforations 70 in the mat directly over channels 71 formed along a width of the mat to provide drainage through sides of the mat when sufficient weight is applied to the mat.
  • a multi-layer mat is illustrated, it is also possible to use a single-layer mat with perforations as the top layer, in combination with a bottom layer with channels as shown in Figure 34.
  • Figure 35 shows an arrangement 72 illustrating the use of a mat support and drainage structure with a mat 68 described in connection with Figure 34.
  • the mat support and drainage structure has retaining reservoirs 73, 74 on either end, respectively.
  • the details of the mat drainage are as described above, and shown in an enlarged sectional view 35-35.
  • the mat support and drainage structure need not include a gravitating portion, since drainage is provided by the mat 68 itself.
  • FIG 36 shows an arrangement 72 illustrating the use of a mat support and drainage structure with a mat 68 described in connection with Figure 34.
  • the mat support and drainage structure has retaining reservoirs 73, 74 on either end, respectively.
  • the details of the mat drainage are as described above, and shown in an enlarged sectional view 35-35.
  • the mat support and drainage structure need not include a gravitating portion, since drainage is provided by the mat 68 itself.
  • the mat 77 comprises three layers. Enlarged cross-sectional view 36-36 illustrates a function of mat 77.
  • a top layer 79 could be a thin film layer, for example formed from plastic or the like, or a stack of thin film layers over a carrier substrate, with a tacky, slip- resistant surface as described earlier.
  • the top layer 79 is not limited to any particular kind of material.
  • the top layer of the mat is perforated with holes 80 that allow the moisture to penetrate the top layer into a middle layer 81 of the mat.
  • the middle layer 81 comprises water absorptive material(s). Such materials could be selected such that the middle layer can hold up to twice its weight in water (swelling ratio of 200%>) and may be constructed from, for example, open cell foam rubber or foam plastics, a very hydrophilic polymer, or natural and/or man-made fibers or fabrics.
  • the water absorptive layer 81 is constructed with small channels 82 that extend across a width of the mat. Although these channels are illustrated as cylindrical in shape, any shape that produces an open channel is contemplated.
  • a bottom layer 83 of the mat 77 comprises a rigid material, such as rubber or plastic, and provides slip resistance between the bottom layer and a surface in contact therewith, for example, a surface or surfaces of a mat support and drainage structure as described above.
  • a rigid material such as rubber or plastic
  • water-absorptive layer 81 are forced out sides ofthe mat through the channels 82 in the absorptive layer.
  • a channel may be formed such that a point in the channel at or near a center of the mat is slightly higher than ends of the channel at sides of the mat, thereby introducing an angle into the channel. This would provide drainage out of the mat in the absence of applied weight on the mat and would also assist in the evacuation of moisture due to applied weight on the mat surface.
  • Figure 37 shows an arrangement 84 illustrating the use of a mat support and drainage structure with a mat 77 described in connection with Figure 36.
  • the mat support and drainage structure has retaining reservoirs 85, 86 on either end, respectively.
  • the details of the mat drainage are as described above, and shown in an enlarged sectional view 37-37.
  • the mat support and drainage structure need not include a gravitating portion, since drainage is provided by the mat 77 itself.
  • a top layer 90 could be a thin film layer, for example formed from plastic or the like, or a stack of thin film layers over a carrier substrate, with a tacky, slip- resistant surface as described earlier. However, the top layer is not limited to any particular kind of material.
  • the top layer ofthe mat is perforated with holes 91 that allow the moisture to penetrate the film into a middle layer 92 of the mat.
  • the middle layer 92 comprises water absorptive fibers 93. These fibers may be formed, for example, from plastics, a very hydrophilic polymer, or natural and/or man-made materials.
  • the fibers in the water absorptive layer 92 are oriented along a width of the mat so that spaces between the fibers, and the fibers themselves, form channels that extend across a width of the mat.
  • a bottom layer 94 of the mat 88 comprises a rigid material, such as rubber or plastic, and provides slip resistance between the bottom layer and a surface in contact therewith.
  • a rigid material such as rubber or plastic
  • water-absorptive layer 92 are forced out sides ofthe mat through channels created by the spaces between the fibers 93 and perhaps through the fibers themselves.
  • Some or all of the fibers may also be positioned in the mat such that at a point at or near a center of the mat, a fiber is slightly higher than at the ends ofthe channel at sides ofthe mat, thereby introducing an angle into the fiber.
  • Figure 39 shows an arrangement 95 illustrating the use of a mat support and drainage structure with a mat 88 described in connection with Figure 38.
  • the mat support and drainage structure has retaining reservoirs 96, 97 on either end, respectively.
  • the details of the mat drainage are as described above, and shown in an enlarged sectional view 39- 39.
  • the mat support and drainage structure need not include a gravitating portion, since drainage is provided by the mat 88 itself.
  • anti-fungal agents due to the possible stagnant nature of the water in the mat support and drainage structure and potential remaining moisture in a mat placed thereon and having water absorptive features, the addition of anti-fungal agents, anti-bacterial agents, and/or fragrances could provide additional benefits and the incorporation of such agents and or fragrances are included in the present invention.
  • agents and fragrances may be incorporated in the raw materials of the mat portions prior to molding or fabricating the mat support and drainage structure and/or the mat.
  • the agents and fragrances may be applied after fabrication by spraying, dipping, brushing ordusting the agents and fragrances onto the mat support and drainage structure and/or the mat.
  • the floor mat of the present invention includes features as described below. It should be noted that the below-listed features are not all-inclusive of the features of the floor mat of the present invention. This specification in its entirety discloses all of the features of the floor mat of the present invention.
  • the floor mat includes a tacky surface having a top exposed surface with a surface area and a substantially non-paper anti-slip component disposed within the surface area ofthe top exposed surface ofthe tacky surface to prevent slipping on the tacky surface when wet.
  • the anti-slip component is in operable association with the top exposed surface of the tacky surface to reduce slippage of a person on the top exposed surface who steps on the top exposed surface when the top exposed surface is wet.
  • the anti-slip component may be integrally included in the top exposed surface.
  • the anti-slip component may include a plurality of channels as can be seen in Figure 5 which are comprised of a non-tacky material where the plurality of channels is extendible from the top surface of the tacky surface in response to a person stepping on the tacky surface.
  • the floor mat may include an anti-slip component that is extendible from the top surface of the tacky surface in the absence of a person standing on the tacky surface, such as the treads described previously.
  • the treads may be elongated members that have a length extending across the top exposed surface of the tacky surface which is substantially greater than a height that the treads extend above the top exposed surface of the tacky surface.
  • anti-slip component may be the apertures illustrated in Figure 11.
  • an anti-slip component may be comprised of a non-tacky material, e.g., non-tacky members, and a water resistant material.
  • the anti-slip components may be water resistant.
  • the anti-slip components may also be comprised of a material such that they remain functional to prevent slipping on the tacky surface after a plurality of uses.
  • the anti-slip component may be comprised of a sufficiently rigid material such that a configuration ofthe anti-slip component is substantially maintained after being stepped on a plurality of times by a person and may be comprised of a material having a composition which is substantially maintained after having been stepped on a plurality of times by the person.
  • the floor mat includes a base portion having a non-tacky exposed top surface area 250 for contacting the soles of a person's shoes thereon and a tacky portion associated with the non-tacky exposed top surface area of the base portion and having a tacky exposed top surface area 350 for contacting the soles of the shoes thereon.
  • the base portion non- tacky exposed top surface area 250 is at least as large as the tacky portion tacky exposed top surface area 350.
  • the floor mat's base portion may include a cushioning component such that when the person's shoes applies pressure to the base portion and the tacky portion, both the base portion and the tacky portion conform to a topography of a bottom of the person's shoes.
  • the tacky portion may also include a tacky surface on a bottom side of the tacky portion.
  • the base portion may circumscribe the tacky portion, as can be seen in Figure 1 , or may be located adjacent to the tacky portion, as can be seen in Figure 14.
  • the floor mat has a base portion that has a continuous non-tacky exposed top surface area 250 for contacting the soles of a person's shoes thereon and a tacky portion having a tacky exposed top surface area 350 for contacting the soles of the shoes thereon.
  • the non-tacky exposed top surface area of the base portion and the tacky exposed top surface area of the tacky portion are both of a size such that an entire sole of an adult-sized shoe is receivable thereon.
  • the continuous non-tacky exposed top surface area 250 of the base portion has a first side area 252 disposed on a first side 352 of the tacky exposed top surface area of the tacky portion and a second side area 254 disposed on a second, opposing side 354 ofthe tacky exposed top surface area of the tacky portion.
  • the first side area of the continuous non-tacky exposed top surface area of the base portion is larger than the second side area ofthe continuous non-tacky exposed top surface area ofthe base portion.
  • any of the disclosed embodiments for the components of the floor mat e.g., the base portion, the tacky portion, the graphic display, and thus all of the features associated with these components, may be combined in any embodiment of the present invention and the present invention is not limited to only the particular combined embodiments disclosed.
  • Other embodiments can be implemented by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

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Abstract

Cette invention concerne un paillasson (100) perfectionné. Selon un mode de réalisation, ce paillasson (100) comprend une partie nettoyable. Il peut également comporter un élément de dissipation de l'eau, un élément d'absorption d'eau, un élément amortisseur, un élément graphique (220), une partie nettoyable transparente, une surface collante transparente sur la partie nettoyable, une composition antibactérienne, une composition antifongique et un parfum. La partie (300) peut comporter une pluralité de couches nettoyables réutilisables (301-305). Si le paillasson comporte une surface collante, un élément antidérapant peut être associé à cette surface et empêche de glisser lorsque cette surface est mouillée. La surface collante peut être réalisée dans un matériau qui est intrinsèquement non glissant une fois mouillé. Par ailleurs, un système de détection (700) peut être intégré au paillasson (100) permettant de mieux déterminer si un nettoyage dudit paillasson s'impose. Sont également décrits un support et une structure d'évacuation de l'eau (30) avec plans inclinés (36) forçant l'eau à s'écouler vers le bas.
PCT/US2001/048657 2000-12-20 2001-12-19 Support et structure d'ecoulement de l'eau pour paillasson WO2002049498A1 (fr)

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US25648600P 2000-12-20 2000-12-20
US60/256,486 2000-12-20

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Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US8277741B2 (en) 2008-10-28 2012-10-02 Mccabe Colin Adam Anti-germicidal and/or antimicrobial apparatus for reducing and/or eliminating germs and/or bacteria from the soles of footwear and method for use

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3300275A (en) * 1963-12-23 1967-01-24 Alfred F Lorman Germicidal hospital mat
US4068339A (en) * 1974-12-05 1978-01-17 Sumitomo Bakelite Company Limited Flexible matting
WO1988003383A1 (fr) * 1986-11-07 1988-05-19 Coronet-Werke Heinrich Schlerf Gmbh Procede de production de nattes de nettoyage et nattes de nettoyage
US6088984A (en) * 1998-01-21 2000-07-18 Kirby; Mark E. Method and apparatus for making a sloped floor

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3300275A (en) * 1963-12-23 1967-01-24 Alfred F Lorman Germicidal hospital mat
US4068339A (en) * 1974-12-05 1978-01-17 Sumitomo Bakelite Company Limited Flexible matting
WO1988003383A1 (fr) * 1986-11-07 1988-05-19 Coronet-Werke Heinrich Schlerf Gmbh Procede de production de nattes de nettoyage et nattes de nettoyage
US6088984A (en) * 1998-01-21 2000-07-18 Kirby; Mark E. Method and apparatus for making a sloped floor

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US8277741B2 (en) 2008-10-28 2012-10-02 Mccabe Colin Adam Anti-germicidal and/or antimicrobial apparatus for reducing and/or eliminating germs and/or bacteria from the soles of footwear and method for use

Also Published As

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