U.S. patent application number 12/975063 was filed with the patent office on 2011-06-23 for tile structure and assembly for covering predetermined surface.
Invention is credited to Stephen P. Courey.
Application Number | 20110146189 12/975063 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44149126 |
Filed Date | 2011-06-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110146189 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Courey; Stephen P. |
June 23, 2011 |
TILE STRUCTURE AND ASSEMBLY FOR COVERING PREDETERMINED SURFACE
Abstract
A tile structure and a tile assembly comprising a plurality of
substantially equivalent, interconnected tile structures disposable
in covering relation to a floor or other surface area. Each tile
structure comprises outer and under layers fixedly secured in
longitudinally and transversely offset relation to define a
connecting groove and a connecting tongue extending along opposite
longitudinal and transverse peripheral portions thereof. The
connecting tongue on each of the plurality of tile structures is
cooperatively dimensioned and configured to fit within the
connecting groove on a next adjacently disposed tile structure.
Secure interconnection between the tile structures is facilitated
by a pressure sensitive or dry adhesive composition disposed on one
surface at least partially within the connecting groove, while the
remaining surfaces of the connecting tongue and groove are
initially adhesive-free.
Inventors: |
Courey; Stephen P.;
(Montreal, CA) |
Family ID: |
44149126 |
Appl. No.: |
12/975063 |
Filed: |
December 21, 2010 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12456767 |
Jun 22, 2009 |
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12975063 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
52/588.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B32B 7/04 20130101; E04F
15/02 20130101; E04F 2201/07 20130101; E04F 2203/06 20130101; E04F
2201/0107 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
52/588.1 |
International
Class: |
E04C 2/38 20060101
E04C002/38 |
Claims
1. A tile structure configured for interconnection with a plurality
of substantially equivalent tile structures, said tile structure
comprising: an outer layer and an under layer secured to one
another, said outer layer being disposed in an overlying relation
to said under layer, a first longitudinal side of said under layer
disposed in an outwardly extending relation to a corresponding
first longitudinal side of said outer layer, said first
longitudinal sides of said outer and under layers disposed in
spaced relation to one another to define a connecting groove
therebetween, said connecting groove comprising a converging
dimensional configuration along at least a portion of a length
thereof, a second longitudinal side of said under layer disposed in
outwardly extending relation beyond a corresponding second
longitudinal side of said outer layer to define a connecting
tongue, and said connecting tongue comprising a tapered
configuration along at least a portion of a length thereof.
2. The tile structure as recited in claim 1 wherein said first
longitudinal side of said outer layer comprises an under surface
and an adhesive composition disposed on said under surface.
3. The tile structure as recited in claim 1 wherein said first
longitudinal side of said outer layer comprises an under surface
disposed in a spaced relation with an inner portion of an interior
surface of said first longitudinal side of said under layer; said
connecting groove at least partially defined by said under surface
and said inner portion of said interior surface of said first
longitudinal sides of said outer and under layers respectively.
4. The tile structure as recited in claim 3 wherein said inner
portion of said interior surface of said under layer comprises a
sloped, converging configuration.
5. The tile structure as recited in claim 4 wherein said under
surface of said first longitudinal side of said outer layer is
substantially parallel to an outer, exposed surface of said outer
layer.
6. The tile structure as recited in claim 4 wherein said second
longitudinal side of said under layer includes an outer surface and
an oppositely disposed under surface respectively defining outer
and under surfaces of said connecting tongue.
7. The tile structure as recited in claim 6 wherein said under
surface of said connecting tongue comprises a sloped configuration
along at least a portion of a length thereof.
8. The tile structure as recited in claim 7 wherein said outer
surface of said connecting tongue is parallel to an outer, exposed
surface of said outer layer.
9. The tile structure as recited in claim 7 wherein said outer
surface of said connecting tongue includes a lesser transverse
dimension than that of said under surface of said connecting
tongue.
10. The tile structure as recited in claim 9 wherein said second
longitudinal side of said under layer comprises a lip disposed at
an interior end of said under surface of said tongue.
11. The tile structure as recited in claim 10 wherein said second
longitudinal side of said outer layer comprises a peripheral edge
disposed in a non-aligned, outer extending relation to said lip on
said second longitudinal side of said under layer.
12. The tile structure as recited in claim 11 wherein said lip of
said second longitudinal side of said under layer is configured to
be disposed in a confronting relation with a peripheral edge of a
first longitudinal side of an under layer on a next, adjacently
disposed and connected one of the plurality of substantially
equivalent tiles.
13. The tile structure as recited in claim 12 wherein said
peripheral edge of said second longitudinal side of said outer
layer is configured to be disposed in a confronting relation with a
peripheral edge of a first longitudinal side of an outer layer on
the next, adjacently disposed and connected one of the plurality of
substantially equivalent tiles.
14. The tile structure as recited in claim 7 wherein said under
surface of said connecting tongue comprises a lesser transverse
dimension than said interior surface of said first longitudinal
side of said under layer.
15. The tile structure as recited in claim 3 wherein said interior
surface of said first longitudinal side of said under layer and
said outer and under surfaces of said connecting tongue initially
comprise adhesive-free surfaces.
16. The tile structure as recited in claim 15 wherein said first
longitudinal side of said outer layer comprises an under surface
and an adhesive composition disposed on said under surface.
17. The tile structure as recited in claim 16 wherein said adhesive
composition comprises a pressure-sensitive adhesive.
18. The tile structure as recited in claim 1 wherein said
connecting groove and said connecting tongue respectively extend
continuously along oppositely disposed transverse ends of said
outer layer and said under layer.
19. The tile structure as recited in claim 1 wherein said outer and
under layers each comprises an at least partially flexible
construction.
20. The tile structure as recited in claim 19 wherein said outer
and under layer comprise Polyvinyl Chloride.
21. The tile structure as recited in claim 19 further comprising a
collective dimensional thickness of less than four millimeters.
22. A tile assembly structured to cover a predetermined surface,
said tile assembly comprising: a plurality of tile structures
comprising substantially equivalent configurations and dimensions
sufficient to facilitate longitudinal and transverse
interconnection to one another and collective disposition in
covering relation to the predetermined surface, each of said
plurality of tile structures comprising an outer layer and an under
layer secured to one another, a first longitudinal side of said
under layer disposed in outwardly extending relation to a
corresponding first longitudinal side of said outer layer, said
first longitudinal sides of said outer and under layers disposed in
spaced relation to one another to define a connecting groove
therebetween, a second longitudinal side of said under layer
disposed in outwardly extending relation beyond a corresponding
second longitudinal side of said outer layer to define a connecting
tongue, and said connecting tongue and said connecting groove of
adjacent and connected tile structures comprising cooperatively
structured tapered configurations wherein said connecting tongue is
dimensioned and configured to fit within said connecting groove of
said adjacent and connected tile structures.
23. The tile assembly as recited in claim 22 wherein said first
longitudinal side of said outer layer of each of said plurality of
tile structures comprises an under surface disposed in an at least
partially spaced relation with an inner portion of an interior
surface of said first longitudinal side of said outer layer; said
connecting groove at least partially defined by said inner portion
of said interior surface and said under surface of said first
longitudinal sides of said outer and under layers respectively.
24. The tile assembly as recited in claim 23 wherein said inner
portion of said interior surface of said under layer of each of
said plurality of tile structures comprises an angled configuration
relative to said under surface of said first longitudinal side of
said outer layer.
25. The tile assembly as recited in claim 24 wherein said second
longitudinal side of said under layer comprises a lip disposed at
an interior end of said under surface of said tongue and said
second longitudinal side of said outer layer comprises a peripheral
edge disposed in a non-aligned, outer extending relation to said
lip.
26. The tile assembly as recited in claim 25 wherein said lip of
said second longitudinal side of said under layer is configured to
be disposed in a confronting relation with a peripheral edge of a
first longitudinal side of an under layer on a next, adjacently
disposed one of said plurality of tile structures.
27. The tile assembly as recited in claim 26 wherein said
peripheral edge of said second longitudinal side of said outer
layer is configured to be disposed in a confronting relation with a
peripheral edge of a first longitudinal side of an outer layer on
said next, adjacently disposed one of said plurality of tile
structures.
28. The tile assembly as recited in claim 26 wherein said second
longitudinal side of said under layer of each of said plurality of
tile structures comprises an outer surface and an oppositely
disposed under surface respectively defining outer and under
surfaces of said connecting tongue; said under surface of said
connecting tongue of each of said plurality of tile structures
comprising a larger transverse dimension than that of said outer
surface of said connecting tongue.
29. The tile assembly as recited in claim 28 wherein said under
surface of said connecting tongue comprises an at least partially
angled configuration relative to said outer surface of said
connecting tongue.
30. The tile assembly as recited in claim 29 wherein said under
surface of said connecting tongue of each of said plurality of tile
structures comprises a lesser transverse dimension than said
interior surface of said first longitudinal side of said under
layer of an adjacent and connected tile structure.
31. The tile assembly as recited in claim 22 wherein said first
longitudinal side of said outer layer of each of said plurality of
tile structures comprises an under surface and a pressure sensitive
adhesive composition disposed on said undersurface of said first
longitudinal side.
32. The tile assembly as recited in claim 31 wherein said interior
surface of said first longitudinal side of said under layer and
said outer and under surfaces of said connecting tongue initially
comprise adhesive-free surfaces.
Description
CLAIM OF PRIORITY
[0001] The present application is a "Continuation-In-Part" patent
application of a previously filed, currently pending U.S. patent
application having Ser. No. 12/456,767 filed on Jun. 22, 2009,
which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] This invention relates to a tile structure dimensioned and
configured for interconnection with a plurality of substantially
equivalent tile structures, which collectively, comprise a tile
assembly disposable in overlying, floating relation to a supporting
floor surface. Each tile structure comprises an outer layer and
under layer integrally or fixedly secured to one another in a
manner so as to define a connecting groove and a connecting tongue
respectively extending along opposite peripheral portions thereof.
The connecting tongue and groove are cooperatively dimensioned and
configured to facilitate interconnection of laterally and
longitudinally adjacent tile structures.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] Numerous systems and structures have been devised in an
attempt to provide effective, economically feasible and easily
installed flooring surfaces. However, many of such known or
conventional systems, while considered to be at least minimally
acceptable, suffer from various problems and disadvantages. As a
result such known flooring surfaces, while commercially available,
have enjoyed a limited degree of popularity. Typically, floor tiles
comprise a rectangular or square configuration, wherein peripheral
edges thereof have cooperative, predetermined configurations and
dimensions which facilitate connection to adjacently disposed
and/or aligned tiles. As typically used or installed, a plurality
of such tiles are interconnected so as to overlie a supporting
floor surface.
[0006] Disadvantages and problems as indicated above include known
or conventional assemblies of interconnected floor tiles having
common joints or interconnecting seams being clearly apparent. This
not only detracts from the appearance of the tiles but also
derogatorily affects the practicality of the tile assembly due to
the possibility of leakage of liquids beneath the tile structures
and/or the tendency for dirt, debris, etc. to accumulate into the
interconnecting junctions and/or seams. Therefore, the use of floor
tile structures as conventionally designed and structured are
frequently not acceptable for use in kitchens, bathrooms and other
utility areas of a domestic environment and are similarly limited
for use in many commercial environments. Therefore, while modular
floor tiles have been developed as a low cost substitute for more
conventional flooring surfaces such as wood floors, carpeting, etc.
problems of the type set forth above are common place throughout
the tile industry.
[0007] Accordingly, there is a significant and long recognized need
for a practical yet decorative tile structure which is easily and
quickly interconnected to substantially equivalent tile structures
to collectively define a tile assembly. If any such improved tile
assembly were developed, it would preferably also be structured to
have sufficient versatility to be used as a "floating" floor
surface. Further, it would be ideal if each of the plurality of any
such improved tile structures defining the tile assembly were
formed of a relatively thin, at least minimally flexible material
which facilitates the large scale production of a significant
number of them. Moreover, if any such improved tile structures were
developed, each would ideally also be cooperatively dimensioned and
configured with connecting grooves and connecting tongues,
preferably formed along opposite peripheral portions of each tile
structure. As such, laterally adjacent as well as longitudinally
aligned ones of any such developed plurality of tile structures may
be efficiently and quickly interconnected along tight, non-obvious
seams. As a result, the seams should be only minimally detectable
and an improved tile assembly would be offered which thereby
overcome problems associated with the seepage of liquid and/or the
collection of dirt, debris, etc. therein as has been discussed
above herein relative to known prior art devices.
[0008] Finally, the structuring, design and configuring of the
plurality of any such new and improved tile structures would also
ideally provide a decorative, utilitarian flooring surface capable
of being utilized in a variety of domestic and commercial
applications and further, be sufficiently durable to provide a long
and operable, yet esthetically pleasing life.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] The present invention is intended to present a solution to
these and other needs that remain in the art, and consequently,
relates to a new tile structure, dimensioned and configured for
interconnection to a plurality of substantially equivalent tile
structures, so as to define a tile assembly capable of covering
surfaces of varying dimension and configuration. Accordingly, the
present invention comprises not only the new individual tile
structures but also, a tile assembly defining a plurality of
interconnected tile structures, as set forth in greater detail
hereinafter.
[0010] Each of the plurality of tile structures comprises an outer
layer and an under layer integrally or otherwise fixedly secured to
one another, either in an aligned, or offset, non-aligned relation.
As will become apparent from the following discussion, the outer
layer and under layer are each configured and constructed such that
when fixedly secured to one another, the outer peripheral edges or
sides are disposed in a longitudinally and transversely offset
and/or nonaligned relation. As a result, a first longitudinal side
of the outer layer is disposed in outwardly extending, overlying
relation to a correspondingly disposed first longitudinal side of
the under layer. Moreover, the first longitudinal sides of the
outer and under layers are disposed in spaced relation to one
another so as to define a connecting groove therebetween. The
offset or nonaligned relation of the peripheral sides of the outer
and under layers of each tile structure further defines a second
longitudinal side of the under layer being disposed in outwardly
extending relation beyond a corresponding second longitudinal side
of the outer layer, thereby defining a connecting tongue.
[0011] Accordingly, the connecting groove extends along preferably
the entire length of the first longitudinal sides of the outer and
under layers and also extends along a transverse end or side of the
tile structure in a continuous manner to define a connecting groove
extension. In contrast, the connecting tongue extends preferably
along the entire second longitudinal sides of the outer and under
layers and also includes a connecting tongue extension, extending
continuously along the transverse end or side of each tile
structure which is opposed to the connecting groove extension, as
set forth above.
[0012] Additional structural and operative features which
facilitate a firm, reliable, close fitting engagement between
laterally or longitudinally adjacent, connected tile structures is
the provision of an adhesive composition formed on an under surface
of the first longitudinal side of the outer layer. In contrast, the
remaining "mating" surfaces of the first and second longitudinal
sides defining the connecting groove and the connecting tongue are
at least initially free of any adhesive composition.
[0013] As will be apparent from the more specific description
hereinafter provided, once correspondingly disposed interconnecting
grooves and connecting tongues of adjacently disposed tile
structures become connected, the aforementioned adhesive
composition will be disposed in interconnecting relation with a
confronting "mating" surface of the connecting tongue of the next
adjacent tile structure. In addition, at least one preferred
embodiment of the tile structure and tile assembly comprises the
aforementioned adhesive composition being a pressure sensitive
composition. As such, the adhesive characteristics of the pressure
sensitive adhesive composition will become activated once
corresponding connecting grooves and connecting tongues are engaged
with one another. Thereafter, a pressure is exerted on the first
longitudinal side of the outer layer which at least partially
defines the connecting groove as set forth above. This exerted
pressure serves to effectively activate the adhesive composition.
As a result, prior to the activating pressure being exerted, the
adhesive composition will not demonstrate significant adherence to
other surfaces to hamper manufacture, storage and transportation of
the tile structures prior to their installation with other such
equivalently configured and dimensioned tile structures.
[0014] Yet additional features of at least one preferred embodiment
of the tile structure and tile assembly of the present invention is
the cooperative dimensioning of the connecting groove and
connecting tongue. More specifically, the outer surface of each
connecting tongue of each tile structure has a larger transverse
dimension than the transverse dimension of the under surface
thereof. Moreover, the outer surface of the connecting tongue
comprises a lesser transverse dimension than the transverse
dimension of the under surface of the first longitudinal side of
the outer layer. As a result, a space is formed upon insertion of a
connecting tongue into a corresponding, adjacently disposed
connecting groove of a next adjacent tile structure.
[0015] Such a space extends preferably along the entire length of
the connecting groove and connecting groove extension and is more
specifically located between an innermost, longitudinal edge of the
inserted connecting tongue and the innermost or terminal portion of
the connecting groove. This space is provided to overcome or
accommodate any discrepancy between the intended or predetermined
dimensions of interlocking connecting tongues and grooves thereby
assuring a firm, stable, closely fitting seam or junction between
adjacently disposed, connected tile structures. In addition, this
inner space may serve as a collection area for any excess adhesive
composition that may be forced or otherwise migrate into the
innermost areas of the connecting groove when adjacently disposed
tile structures are connected to one another. As a result, there
will be no visible leakage or seepage of the adhesive composition
through the seams or junctions of the interconnected tiles.
[0016] Therefore, each tile structure, as well as the plurality of
connected tile structures defining the tile assembly, provide for
an effective floor or like surface covering capable of being easily
installed and maintained, while overcoming many of the
disadvantages and problems of conventional or known tile systems as
generally set forth above.
[0017] These and other objects, features and advantages of the
present invention will become clearer when the drawings as well as
the detailed description are taken into consideration.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] For a fuller understanding of the nature of the present
invention, reference should be had to the following detailed
description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings in
which:
[0019] FIG. 1 is a top view of a tile structure of the present
invention.
[0020] FIG. 2 is a top view of a plurality of connected tile
structures collectively defining a tile assembly of the present
invention.
[0021] FIG. 3 is a transverse sectional view along line 3-3 of FIG.
1.
[0022] FIG. 4 is a detailed sectional view in partial cutaway along
line 4-4 of FIG. 1.
[0023] FIG. 5 is a detailed sectional view in cutaway along line
5-5 of FIG. 2.
[0024] FIG. 6 is a top view of a tile structure and covering
assembly of at least one embodiment of the present invention.
[0025] FIG. 7 is a transverse sectional view of yet another
embodiment of the present invention disclosed herein.
[0026] FIG. 8 is a detailed sectional view in partial cutaway of
the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7.
[0027] Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the
several views of the drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0028] As represented in the accompanying drawings, the present
invention is directed to a tile structure generally indicated as
10, as well as a tile assembly comprising a plurality of connected
tile structures 10, 10', etc. As such, each of the tile structures
10, 10', etc. comprises a substantially equivalent dimension and
configuration so as to facilitate their connecting engagement with
one another, as described in greater detail hereinafter.
[0029] As also represented, each of the tile structures 10 may have
a generally elongated, rectangular configuration, as well as other
multi-sided configurations, which are cooperatively shaped to
facilitate the interconnection thereof as they are disposed in
overlying relation to a supporting surface. In addition, at least
one preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises the
tile assembly, as represented in FIG. 2, installed as what is
generally referred in the flooring industry as a "floating" floor
assembly. When used in such an application, the plurality of
interconnected tile structures 10, 10', etc. are not adhesively or
otherwise fixedly secured to the underlying, supporting
surface.
[0030] Moreover, while the overall shape or configuration of each
of the tile structures 10 may vary, the represented, elongated,
substantially rectangular shape of the embodiments of FIGS. 1-5
includes oppositely disposed elongated longitudinal ends or
portions, as at 12 and 14, shown in FIG. 2. In addition, each of
the tile structures 10, 10' is also defined by oppositely disposed
transverse ends or portions, as at 16 and 18, perhaps best shown in
FIGS. 1 and 2.
[0031] More specifically, and with primary reference to FIGS. 3-5,
each of the plurality of tile structures 10, 10', etc. comprises an
outer layer 20 and an under layer 22 integrally or otherwise
fixedly secured to one another. Moreover, the outer layer 20 and
under layer 22 of the various embodiments of the present invention
may be integrally or otherwise fixedly secured to one another in a
longitudinally and/or transversely aligned or nonaligned relation.
In particular, the central point of the outer layer 20 and the
central point of the under layer 22 may, in at least one
embodiment, be aligned, and in another embodiment, may be
non-aligned. Specifically, however, the outer layer 20 and under
layer 22 are dimensioned and/or configured in a manner such that
the outer peripheral longitudinal and transverse edges or sides of
the outer layer 20 and under layer 22 are disposed in an offset
and/or nonaligned relation, as represented in FIGS. 1 and 2. In
particular, as will become apparent from the following discussion
and with reference to the Figures, the outer layer 20 and under
layer 22 of at least one embodiment comprise different or
dissimilar configurations such that, when the outer layer 20 and
under layer 22 are secured to one another, the peripheral
longitudinal and transverse edges or sides thereof are disposed in
a nonaligned or offset relation to one another. This longitudinally
and transversely offset relation of the outer peripheral
longitudinal and transverse edges or sides of the outer layer 20
and the under layer 22 serves to at least partially define a
connecting assembly, which facilitates the connection of adjacently
disposed ones of the plurality of tiles 10 and 10', as represented
in FIG. 2.
[0032] Moreover, in the various embodiments presented herein, the
tile structures 10, 10' may exhibit a generally soft, flexible
and/or at least partially bendable yet durable construction.
Accordingly, the tile structures 10, 10', including the outer and
under layers 20, 22 thereof, of at least one embodiment are
constructed of Polyvinyl Chloride ("PVC") and/or a composite of PVC
and other materials such as fiber, wood, etc. Furthermore, in at
least one embodiment, the thickness of the tile structure(s) 10,
10' (measuring the conjoined outer and under layers together) is
relatively small and may be, in some preferred embodiments, in the
range of less than four or five millimeters, and most preferably,
approximately 3.8 millimeters.
[0033] Accordingly, and as shown in FIGS. 3-5, the outer layer 20
includes a first longitudinal side 24 which is disposed in
outwardly extending, overlying and spaced relation to a first
longitudinal side 26 of the under layer 22. The relative positions
and dimensions of the first longitudinal side 24 of the outer layer
20 and the correspondingly disposed first longitudinal side 26 of
the under layer 22 at least partially define a connecting groove,
generally indicated as 28 and perhaps best illustrated in FIG. 4.
With further reference to FIG. 3, the outer layer 20 also includes
a second, oppositely disposed longitudinal side 25 correspondingly
disposed relative to a second longitudinal side 27 of the under
layer 22. As represented, the second longitudinal side 27 of the
under layer 22 extends outwardly from and beyond the
correspondingly disposed second longitudinal side 25 of the outer
layer 20. Moreover, the cooperative dimensions and configurations
of the second longitudinal sides 25 and 27 serve to at least
partially define a connecting tongue 29, as perhaps best
illustrated in FIG. 3.
[0034] As clearly represented in FIG. 4, the first longitudinal
side 26 of the under layer 22 includes an interior surface 26'
disposed in aligned, spaced relation with an inner portion 37' of
the under surface 37 of the first longitudinal side 24 of the outer
layer 20. Accordingly, the connecting groove 28 can be at least
partially but more specifically defined by the interior surface 26'
of the first longitudinal side 26 of the under layer 22 and the
spaced apart inner portion 37' of the under surface 37 of the first
longitudinal side 24 of the outer layer 20.
[0035] In addition, the connecting tongue 29 can be more
specifically defined by at least a portion of the outer surface 33
and at least a portion of the under surface 35 of the second
longitudinal side 27 of the under layer 22. It should be further
noted that the outer surface 33 of at least one embodiment has a
greater transverse dimension than the under surface 35 but a lesser
transverse dimension than the under surface 37 of the first
longitudinal side 24 of the outer layer 20, as clearly represented
in FIG. 3. The purpose of the cooperative dimensioning of the outer
and under surfaces 33 and 35 of the second longitudinal side 27 of
the under layer 22 relative to the under surface 37 of the first
longitudinal side 24 of the outer layer 20 will become more
apparent with regard to a detailed description of the
interconnection between adjacently disposed ones of the tiles 10
and 10', with primary reference to FIG. 5.
[0036] Yet additional structural and operative features associated
with each of the plurality of tile structures 10, 10', etc. include
the provision of an adhesive composition 39 disposed on and/or
coated over the under surface 37 of the first longitudinal side 24
of the outer layer 20. In contrast, the surface 26' of the first
longitudinal side 26 of the under layer 22 as well as the opposite
surfaces 33 and 35 of the second longitudinal side 27 of the under
layer 22 initially remain free of any adhesive composition coating.
However, when the connecting tongue 29 is inserted within the
connecting groove 28 of a next, adjacent tile structures 10 and
10', as represented in FIG. 5, the adhesive composition 39 will be
disposed in confronting engagement and interconnecting relation
with the outer surface 33 of the second longitudinal side 27 of the
under layer 22. Again, the adhesive interconnection between the
under surface 37 of the first longitudinal side 24 and the outer
surface 33 of the tongue 29 and/or second longitudinal side 27, as
represented in FIG. 5, will further facilitate a firm, stable,
leak-free connecting joint or seam while facilitating installation
of a plurality of such tile structures 10, 10', etc.
[0037] In addition, at least one preferred embodiment of each tile
structure 10 comprises the aforementioned adhesive composition 39
being a pressure sensitive and/or "dry" adhesive composition. As
such, the adhesive characteristics of the pressure sensitive,
adhesive composition 39 will become activated once corresponding
connecting grooves 28 and connecting tongues 29 are engaged with
one another. Thereafter, a pressure is exerted on the exterior of
the first longitudinal side 24 of the outer layer 20 which overlies
the outer surface 33 of the inserted tongue 29 and/or second
longitudinal side 27, as schematically represented by directional
arrow 39'. This exerted pressure 39' serves to effectively activate
the adhesive composition 39. As a result, prior to the activating
pressure 39' being exerted, the adhesive composition will not
demonstrate a significant tendency to adhere to other surfaces to
the extent of hampering the manufacture, shipment, storage and/or
handling of the tile structures 10, 10' prior to their installation
with other such equivalently configured and dimensioned tile
structures. One such example of a pressure sensitive or dry
adhesive composition is manufactured by Real Tack Industrial Co.
Ltd. and is referred to on both the company's Technical Data Sheets
and Material Safety Data Sheets as Product Identification:
RT-0011.
[0038] At least one preferred embodiment of each of the tile
structures 10, 10', etc. comprises the cooperative dimensioning of
the first longitudinal sides 24 and 26 of the outer and under
layers 20 and 22 respectively, as cooperatively compared with the
second longitudinal sides 25 and 27 of the outer and under layers
20 and 22 respectively, as set forth in detail above. With
reference to FIG. 5, this cooperative dimensioning and
configuration results in the creation of a space 40 disposed within
and extending along the entire length of the connecting groove 28
associated with interconnected sides of adjacent tile structures 10
and 10', as also represented in FIG. 2. Further, the space 40 may
be considered a "tolerance" space in that it is provided to
overcome any discrepancies in the dimensions and configurations of
the connecting tongue 29 relative to that of the connecting groove
28 of adjacently disposed and connected tile structures 10, 10',
etc. More specifically, if the dimensioning of either a connecting
tongue 29 and/or connecting groove 28 deviates from the
predetermined dimensions intended to accomplish a stable, tight and
clean interconnection between adjacent ones of the tile structures
10 and 10', the existence of the spacing 40 will accommodate and
overcome any such dimensional discrepancies. Accordingly, a tight,
smooth, clean, unobtrusive seam, generally indicated as 100, will
extend along connected peripheral portions of adjacently disposed
tile structures 10, 10', etc.
[0039] Further and as set forth above, the provision of an adhesive
composition 39 on the under surface 37 of the first longitudinal
side 24 of the outer layer 20 may be at least partially forced into
the space 40 as the connecting tongue 29 slides or is otherwise
forcibly positioned into the connecting groove 28. Any excessive
seepage or forced positioning of the adhesive composition 39 will
collect in the space 40, thereby preventing any excessive amount of
adhesive composition 39 from passing up through and beyond the seam
100 of interconnected peripheral portions of adjacently disposed
and connected tile structures 10, 10', etc. as shown in FIG. 5.
[0040] As set forth above and clearly represented in FIGS. 1 and 2,
the first longitudinal side 24 extends continuously along one
longitudinal peripheral portion 12 of each of the tile structures
10 and also, extends continuously along a correspondingly disposed
transverse side or end portion 16. As described above, and still
referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the connecting groove 28 is at least
partially defined by the first longitudinal side 24 extending along
the entire longitudinal peripheral portion 12 and also includes a
connecting groove extension 28' extending continuously along the
transverse peripheral portion 16. In addition, the pressure
sensitive and/or dry adhesive composition 39 may also be disposed
within and along the length of the connecting groove extension 28'
in a manner similar to that described above with reference to the
adhesive composition being disposed over the under surface 37.
[0041] In contrast, and as shown in FIG. 1, the connecting tongue
29 extends substantially continuously along the opposite
longitudinal peripheral portion 14 of each of the tile structures
10 and also, extends continuously along a transverse, peripheral
end or portion 18 which is oppositely disposed to the transverse
peripheral portion 16. Therefore, each of the plurality of tile
structures 10, 10', etc. may be easily and quickly connected in
interlocking relation to next adjacent, laterally disposed tile
structures as represented in FIG. 2, as well as next adjacent tile
structures which are longitudinally aligned in an end-to-end
relation. Also the space 40 or more specifically an extension
thereof (not shown for purposes of clarity) will be disposed along
the length of the connecting groove extension 28'.
[0042] Moreover, and with reference now to FIG. 6, at least one
embodiment of the present invention further comprises a covering
assembly 50, cooperatively structured and configured to be
removably disposed at least partially within the connecting groove
28, and further, in an overlying relation to the adhesive
composition 39 disposed on the inner portion 37' of the under
surface 37 of the first longitudinal side 24 of the outer layer 20.
In particular, the covering assembly 50 of at least one embodiment
comprises a longitudinal component 52 disposed at the elongated
longitudinal portion 12 of the outer layer 20, and a transverse
component 54 disposed at the transverse end 16 of the outer layer
20. The longitudinal component 52 and transverse component 54 of
the covering assembly 50 may be separate and disjointed from one
another, as generally illustrated in FIG. 6, however, in at least
one embodiment, the longitudinal component 52 and transverse
component 54 may be connected to one another to form a
substantially 90 degree angle therebetween.
[0043] More in particular, the covering assembly 50 may comprise
virtually any material structured to practice the present invention
in the intended manner, including, but not limited to a flexible
paper material, cardboard, or rigid structuring. The covering
assembly 50 of at least one embodiment is structured to minimize or
avoid the adhesive composition from prematurely or inadvertently
being "released" or adhering to an oppositely disposed surface 26'
of the connecting groove 28, for example, during shipment or
transportation of the tile structure(s) 10, 10', etc. Accordingly,
and from the foregoing description, it can be appreciated that each
individual tile structure 10, and the plurality of interconnected
tile structures 10, 10', etc. defining the tile assembly of the
present invention overcome many of the disadvantages and problems
associated with known tile structures and tile assemblies, as
generally set forth above.
[0044] Further structural modifications can also be included in
accordance with the teachings of the present invention, as for
example, is illustrated in at least one embodiment of the tile
structure 110 shown in FIGS. 7 and 8. In particular, the first
longitudinal side 126 of under layer 122 is disposed in an
outwardly extending relation to the corresponding first
longitudinal side 124 of the outer layer 120. For exemplary
purposes only, in at least one embodiment, the first longitudinal
side 126 of under layer 122 extends generally about two millimeters
beyond the corresponding first longitudinal side 124 of outer layer
120. This configuration should facilitate assembly and
installation, such as allowing for an easier interconnection of
adjacent tile structures. This is likely to be especially true for
at least partially flexible or resilient tiles structures and
assemblies comprising thin or small profile thickness dimensions.
Specifically, with this embodiment an installer should be able to
more easily and visually locate the outer extending portion of the
first longitudinal side 126 of the under layer 122, so as to insert
the connecting tongue 129 of an adjacent tile structure.
[0045] As has been described previously herein, the collective
thickness of the tile structure 10, 10' may be in the range of
generally about four to five millimeters, and in at least one
preferred embodiment, is approximately 3.8 millimeters. This is
preferably also true for the embodiment of the tile structure 110
(including the thickness of both the outer layer 120 and under
layer 122) described with reference to FIG. 7. In addition, the
tile structure 110 may also comprise an at least partially flexible
and/or resilient-like material, such as PVC or a composite of PVC
and other materials, including fiber, wood, etc. With the first
longitudinal side 126 of the under layer 122 being disposed in an
outwardly extending relation relative to the first longitudinal
side 124 of outer layer 120, interconnection of adjacent tile
structures 110 via cooperative tongue 129 and groove 128
configurations is easily accomplished, even though the tile
structure may comprise a collective thickness of less than four
millimeters, and even though the tile structure 110 comprises an at
least partially flexible material or configuration.
[0046] Furthermore, and still referring to illustrated embodiment
of FIG. 7, the outer surface 133 of the corresponding connecting
tongue 129 comprises a lesser transverse dimension than that of the
under surface 135. Accordingly, the connecting tongue 129 and
cooperatively structured connecting groove 128 of adjacent tile
structures 110 are configured for appropriate interconnection
there-between as described herein.
[0047] Specifically, and in at least one embodiment such as is
illustrated in FIG. 7, the second longitudinal side of the under
layer 122 comprises an edge or lip 160 disposed at an interior end
of the under surface 135 of the connecting tongue 129. The edge or
lip 160 is disposed in a non-aligned relation to a peripheral edge
162 of the second longitudinal side 125 of the outer layer 120. In
particular, when the tile assembly of the present invention is
assembled, the lip 160 is configured to be disposed in confronting
engagement with a peripheral edge 161 of the first longitudinal
side 126 of the under layer 122 on a next, adjacently disposed tile
structure. Similarly, the peripheral edge 162 of the second
longitudinal side 125 of the outer layer 120 is configured to be
disposed in confronting engagement with a corresponding peripheral
edge of the first longitudinal side 124 of the outer layer 120 of a
next, adjacently disposed tile structure.
[0048] Moreover, and in at least one preferred embodiment, each of
the tile structures 110 comprises the cooperative dimensioning of
the connecting groove 128 and connecting tongue 129 in order to
create a "tolerance" space disposed within and extending along the
length of the connecting groove 128 associated with interconnected
sides of adjacent tile structures 110, as described above. More in
particular, and with reference to the embodiment illustrated in
FIGS. 7 and 8, the under surface 135 of the connecting tongue 129
comprises a lesser transverse dimension than interior surface 126'
of the first longitudinal side 126 of the under layer 122. Thus,
with the lip 160 disposed in an abutting, confronting relation with
peripheral edge 161, a "tolerance" space is created on the interior
of the groove 128 when adjacent tile structures 110 are disposed in
an interconnecting relation as described herein.
[0049] In addition, and still referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the
connecting groove 128 of at least one embodiment comprises a
converging, sloped or tapered dimensional configuration along at
least a portion of the length thereof. For instance, the connecting
groove is defined by the spaced relation between under surface 137
of the first longitudinal side 124 of outer layer 120 and an inner
portion 126'' of interior surface 126' of the first longitudinal
side 126 of under layer 122. The spaced relation of at least one
embodiment is structured to vary along a length of the groove 128.
For instance, the groove 128 comprises a larger dimension at one
end (e.g., the first open end 128') than it does at a second end
(e.g., at inner end 128''). For exemplary purposes only, the first
open end 128' of the connecting groove may comprise a dimension of
less than two millimeters, and in a preferred embodiment may be
approximately 1.8 millimeters, whereas the second, inner end 128''
of the connecting groove 128 comprises a lesser dimension, such as
in the range of less than one millimeter or in a preferred
embodiment, approximately 0.8 millimeters.
[0050] More in particular, the converging dimensional configuration
of the connecting groove 128 is preferably defined by a constant
gradual slope of the lower or bottom edge of the groove, such as at
inner portion 126'' of interior surface 126'. The under surface 137
of the first longitudinal side of outer layer 120 may thus
comprises a generally flat or parallel configuration relative to
the top, outer surface 138 thereof.
[0051] Similarly, and still referring to the illustrated embodiment
of Figures and 8, the connecting tongue 129 comprises a
cooperatively structured sloped, angled or tapered configuration
along at least a portion of a length thereof. In particular, the
under surface 135 of connecting tongue 129 comprises a sloped or
angled configuration cooperatively structured to coincide with the
sloped configuration of the bottom surface of the connecting groove
128 defined by the inner portion 126'' of interior surface 126' of
the first longitudinal side 126 of under layer 122. Specifically,
in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7, the connecting tongue 129
comprises a converging or tapered dimensional thickness along its
length in order to fit within a cooperatively structured connecting
groove 128. For exemplary purposes only, the connecting tongue 129
comprises a thickness of less than one millimeter, and in a
preferred embodiment, approximately 0.8 millimeters, at an outer
peripheral end 129' thereof, and a thickness of less than two
millimeters, and in a preferred embodiment approximately 1.8
millimeters, at an inner end 129'' thereof. Furthermore, the outer
surface 133 of the connecting tongue 129 of at least one embodiment
comprises a substantially flat or parallel configuration relative
to the top or outer surface 138 of outer layer 120.
[0052] Since many modifications, variations and changes in detail
can be made to the described preferred embodiment of the invention,
it is intended that all matters in the foregoing description and
shown in the accompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative
and not in a limiting sense. Thus, the scope of the invention
should be determined by the appended claims and their legal
equivalents.
[0053] Now that the invention has been described,
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