Convertible Placemats and Table Runner

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure is related to convertible placemats configured to be collectively arranged to form a table runner, and to a table runner formed from such convertible placemats.

BACKGROUND

Various table covering, such as tablecloths, runners, table pads, placemats, and trivets, are used to protect the underlying table from damage (e.g., water marks, food stains, or heat damage) and/or to provide ornamental decoration. A tablecloth is typically used as an ornamental covering, and may also help protect the table from scratches and stains. A tablecloth may be placed directly on the tabletop or over a table pad that provides additional protection. A “runner” is an elongated table cloth or covering that typically runs the length of the table and hangs over two opposite ends of the table, and may be placed directly on the tabletop or over a tablecloth and/or table pad. Placemats, which provide protection and/or decoration, may be placed directly on the table, or over any of the other coverings discussed above. Finally, a trivet is an object placed on the table to hold a hot serving dish or bowl, typically to protect the table from heat or water damage. A trivet may be a pad that sits on the table, or an object (e.g., a metal tripod with a flat upper surface) that keeps the pot or dish elevated above the table.

SUMMARY

Some embodiments provide a set of convertible placemats includes a plurality of similarly shaped placemats. Each placemat may define a perimeter shape (e.g., a generally rectangular, circular, oval, triangular, hexagonal, or any other shape) including at least a first side and a second side opposite the first side, wherein the first side includes a first complex edge pattern including multiple curved or non-parallel geometric features, wherein the second side includes a second complex edge pattern including multiple curved or non-parallel geometric features, and wherein the second complex edge pattern is an inverse of the first complex edge pattern, such that the second complex edge pattern is geometrically complementary to the first complex edge pattern, such that the second complex edge pattern geometrically mates with the first complex edge pattern of another one of the placemats when the two placemats are arranged side-by-side with the second complex edge pattern abutting the first complex edge pattern. At least a subset of the convertible placemats may be arranged side-by-side in a row to form a table runner.

Some embodiments provide a convertible placemat comprising a generally rectangular shape defining four sides, including a first side and a second side opposite the first side, wherein the first side includes a first complex edge pattern including multiple curved or non-parallel geometric features, wherein the second side includes a second complex edge pattern including multiple curved or non-parallel geometric features, and wherein the second complex edge pattern is geometrically complementary to the first complex edge pattern, such that the second complex edge pattern geometrically mates with the first complex edge pattern of a similar or identical placemat when the two placemats are arranged side-by-side with the second complex edge pattern abutting the first complex edge pattern.

Some embodiments provide a convertible placemat comprising a top surface having a three-dimensional surface texture defined by an array of interconnected three-dimensional structures, wherein each three-dimensional structure has a peak defined by a point or surface, and wherein the array of interconnected three-dimensional structures defines a plurality of valleys between two or more adjacent peaks; and a bottom surface having a different surface texture than the three-dimensional surface texture of the top surface. The placemat may be configured such that when the placemat is placed on a planar surface, a texture ratio of (a) a top surface texture variation measured from a particular peak to a particular adjacent valley in a direction normal to the planar surface to (b) a placemat thickness measured from the particular peak to the planar surface in the direction normal to the planar surface, is at least 25%. In some embodiments the placemat may be formed from a silicone rubber material.

Some embodiments provide a table runner comprising a plurality of similarly shaped placemats arranged in a row and abutting each other side-by-side, wherein each placemat includes a first side and having a first complex edge pattern including multiple curved or non-parallel geometric features, and a second side having a second complex edge pattern that is geometrically complementary to the first complex edge pattern of an adjacent abutting placemat in the row of placemats.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Some embodiments of the disclosure may be understood by referring, in part, to the following description and the accompanying drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 shows a three-dimensional view of an example convertible placemat according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 2 illustrates a set of the convertible placemats of FIG. 1 arranged at table settings on a table.

FIG. 3 illustrates the set of the convertible placemats of FIG. 2 arranged end-to-end to form a table runner on a table.

FIG. 4A illustrates a top view of an example convertible placemat.

FIG. 4B illustrates a number of the placemats of FIG. 4A arranged in a first table runner configuration.

FIG. 4C illustrates a number of the placemats of FIG. 4A arranged in a second table runner configuration.

FIG. 5A illustrates a top view of another example convertible placemat.

FIG. 5B illustrates a number of the placemats of FIG. 5A arranged in a table runner configuration.

FIG. 6A illustrates a top view of another example convertible placemat.

FIG. 6B illustrates a number of the placemats of FIG. 6A arranged in a table runner configuration.

FIG. 7A illustrates a top view of another example convertible placemat.

FIG. 7B illustrates a number of the placemats of FIG. 7A arranged in a table runner configuration, with adjacent placemats being laterally offset from each other.

FIG. 8 illustrates an example three-dimensional convertible placemat design having geometrically complementary sides for selective arrangement of such placemats in multiple different runner configurations.

FIG. 9 illustrates another example three-dimensional convertible placemat design having geometrically complementary sides for selective arrangement of such placemats in multiple different runner configurations.

FIG. 10 illustrates another example three-dimensional convertible placemat design having geometrically complementary sides for selective arrangement of such placemats in multiple different runner configurations.

FIG. 11 illustrates another example three-dimensional convertible placemat design having geometrically complementary sides for selective arrangement of such placemats in multiple different runner configurations.

FIG. 12 illustrates another example three-dimensional convertible placemat design having geometrically complementary sides for selective arrangement of such placemats in multiple different runner configurations.

FIG. 13 illustrates another example three-dimensional convertible placemat design having geometrically complementary sides for selective arrangement of such placemats in multiple different runner configurations.

FIG. 14 illustrates another example three-dimensional convertible placemat design having geometrically complementary sides for selective arrangement of such placemats in multiple different runner configurations.

FIG. 15 illustrates another example three-dimensional convertible placemat design having geometrically complementary sides for selective arrangement of such placemats in multiple different runner configurations.

FIG. 16A illustrates an example side cross-section of a first example convertible placemat.

FIG. 16B illustrates an example side cross-section of a second example convertible placemat.

FIG. 16C illustrates an example side cross-section of a third example convertible placemat.

FIG. 16D illustrates an example side cross-section of a convertible placemat, for the purposes of illustrating various contour features and dimensional aspects.

FIG. 17A illustrates a top view of an example placemat having tapered, reduced thickness side regions.

FIG. 17B illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the placemat of FIG. 9A, showing the tapered side regions.

FIG. 17C illustrates a number of the placemats of FIG. 17A arranged in a table runner configuration, with the tapered side regions mating in an overlapping manner.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a convertible placemat 10 according to one example embodiment. Placement 10 is “convertible” in the sense that it may be used as a placemat for an individual place setting at a table, or may be combined with one or more identical or similar placemats 10 to form an elongated runner extending at least partially across a length of the table. For example, FIG. 2 shows an example arrangement of a set of six placemats 10 on a table 12, arranged at six individual place settings, while FIG. 3 shows a number of the placemats 10 (e.g., two, three, four, five, or all six of the placemats 10) arranged end-to-end to form a runner 14 extending across a length of the table 12. Thus, the placemats 10 may be arranged and rearranged as desired for use as individual placemats or to form a table runner.

Returning to FIG. 1, the illustrated example placement 10 may define a generally rectangular perimeter shape having four sides, indicated as first side 20A, second side 20B opposite first side 20A, third side 20C, and fourth side 20D opposite third side 20C. Each side 20 includes an edge pattern 22 defined by the contour of the outer edge of that side. Thus, first side 20A includes a first edge pattern 22A, second side 20B includes a second edge pattern 22B, third side 20C includes a third edge pattern 22C, and fourth side 20D includes a fourth edge pattern 22D. In other embodiments, placemat 10 may define a non-rectangular perimeter shape, e.g., a generally round or oval shape, a hexagonal shape, an octagonal shape, or any other suitable shape.

Each edge pattern 22 may define one or more geometric features. For a particular placemat 10, each edge pattern 22 may be the same as one, two, or all three of the other edge patterns 22, may geometrically complement one, two, or all three of the other edge patterns 22, or may not geometrically match with any of the other edge patterns 22.

As used herein, an edge pattern is “geometrically complementary” to another edge pattern (or to itself) if the edge patterns can be arranged side-by-side in an abutting manner with the geometric features of the respective edge patterns mating with each other in a geometric manner to form a generally flush fit between the two edge patterns. Thus, for example, edge patterns that geometrically complement each other include edge patterns that are mirrored images and/or geometric inverses of each other, and edge patterns that fit together similar to puzzle pieces in an interlocking or non-interlocking manner (wherein edge patterns that fit together similar to puzzle pieces may or may not be mirrored images or geometric inverses of each other).

In the context of two placemats arranged side-by-side (e.g., to form a runner or part of a runner), an edge pattern 22A of a particular side 20A of the first placemat may geometrically complement the edge pattern 22A-22D of any side or sides (20A-20D) of the second placemat, when the second placemat is arranged in the same angular orientation as the first placemat, or when the second placemat is arranged rotated relative to the first placemat by any suitable amount (e.g., 90 degrees, 180 degrees, 270 degrees).

Thus, a set of placemats having geometrically complementary sides may be arranged end-to-end (or side-by-side) in a row, with geometrically complementary sides abutting each other, to form an elongated table runner, e.g., as shown in FIG. 3. In some embodiments, the geometrically complementary edge patterns may be designed such when abutted and arranged as a table runner, the placemats are aligned with each other in the lateral direction (i.e., perpendicular to the elongated direction of the runner), e.g., as shown in FIG. 3. This may provide a generally continuous edge or profile extending along the length of the runner, as indicated by edge 30 in FIG. 3.

In other embodiments, the geometrically complementary edge patterns may be designed such when abutted and arranged as a table runner, the placemats are offset from each other in the lateral direction (i.e., perpendicular to the elongated direction of the runner). This may provide an additional ornamental feature to the runner. In some embodiments, the degree of lateral offset between adjacent, abutting placemats is less than 50% of the width of the placemats in the direction of the offset. In some embodiments, the degree of lateral offset between adjacent, abutting placemats is less than 25% of the width of the placemats in the direction of the offset. In some embodiments, the degree of lateral offset between adjacent, abutting placemats is less than 10% of the width of the placemats in the direction of the offset.

Some edge patterns 22 (which may or may not geometrically complement one or more other edge patterns 22 of the same placemat) may include multiple curved or non-parallel geometric features, when viewed in a direction normal to the major plane of the placemat, i.e., when viewed from above when the placemat is placed on a table. Such patterns may be referred to herein as “complex” edge patterns 22. Some examples of complex edge patterns (as viewed from above) include a regular or repeating zig-zag pattern, an irregular or non-repeating zig-zag pattern, a tongue-and-groove pattern, and a curved (e.g., wave-like) pattern.

Placemat 10 may include any number of sides 20 having a complex edge pattern. For example, placemat 10 may include one pair of opposing sides 20 having complex edge patterns, with the other pair of opposing sides 20 having non-complex edge patterns (e.g., straight line edges). As another example, all sides of placemat 10 may have complex edge patterns, which may be similar to or different from each other.

Each particular geometrically complementary edge pattern may or not be complex. Similarly, each particular complex edge pattern may or may not be geometrically complementary with at least one other edge pattern (including itself).

In addition, each edge pattern may or may not be geometrically symmetrical or mirrored about one or more geometrically relevant axes. For example, with respect to FIG. 1, edge pattern 22A (and similarly, edge pattern 22B) may or may not be geometrically symmetrical or mirrored about one or more of (a) a side axis D_EPcorresponding or parallel to a main direction of edge pattern 22A, (b) a central axis or centerline C extending perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the side axis D_EPand passing through a central point of edge pattern 22A, and (c) an offset centerline axis parallel to and offset from centerline C. In the example shown in FIG. 1, edge pattern 22A is neither geometrically symmetrical nor mirrored about a side axis D_EP, a centerline C, or an offset centerline axis, such that edge pattern 22A is not geometrically complementary to itself (and similarly, edge pattern 22B shown in FIG. 1 is not geometrically complementary to itself). In other embodiments, edge pattern 22A may be geometrically symmetrical or mirrored about at least one of a side axis D_EP, a centerline C, and an offset centerline axis in a manner providing that edge pattern 22A is geometrically complementary to itself.

Some embodiments include edge patterns that are not symmetrical around any axis, but geometrically complementary with another edge pattern, e.g., edge patterns 22A and 22B shown in FIG. 1.

In some embodiments, at least one edge pattern is geometrically complementary to itself and/or to an opposing edge pattern. For example, in some placemats, edge pattern 22A is geometrically complementary to itself and/or to opposing edge pattern 22B, and edge pattern 22B is geometrically complementary to itself and/or to opposing edge pattern 22A. Such edge patterns may or may not be complex edge patterns.

In some embodiments, one set of opposing edge patterns (e.g., opposing edge patterns 22A and 22B or opposing edge patterns 22C and 22D) are geometrically complementary to each other. Such edge patterns may or may not be complex edge patterns.

In some embodiments, both sets of opposing edge patterns (e.g., opposing edge patterns 22A and 22B and opposing edge patterns 22C and 22D) are geometrically complementary to each other. Such edge patterns may or may not be complex edge patterns. In such embodiments, non-opposing edge patterns (e.g., edge patterns 22A and 22C) may or may not be geometrically complementary. Embodiments in which both sets of opposing edge patterns are geometrically complementary to each other allow a set of placemats to be arranged in different table runner configurations. For example, with a set of placemats having a generally rectangular shape that is longer in one direction than the perpendicular direction, the placemats may be arranged end-to-end along the elongated direction of the placemats to form a first runner configuration, or alternatively arranged side-by-side perpendicular to the elongated direction of the placemats to form a second runner configuration, which is wider but shorter than the first runner configuration (assuming the same number of placemats used in both configurations).

In some embodiments, all edge patterns 22A-22D are geometrically complementary to each other, which may provide even more flexibility for different runner configurations. Such edge patterns may or may not be complex edge patterns.

Some geometrically complementary edge patterns 22 may be designed to fit together such that a minimum percentage of the length of each edge pattern physically abuts the other edge pattern when the two edge patterns are arranged side-by-side (e.g., when arranged as a runner or part of a runner). For example, some geometrically complementary edge patterns are designed to fit together such that at least 50% of the length of each edge pattern physically abuts the other edge pattern when the two edge patterns are arranged side-by-side. Some geometrically complementary edge patterns are designed to fit together such that at least 75% of the length of each edge pattern physically abuts the other edge pattern when the two edge patterns are arranged side-by-side. Some geometrically complementary edge patterns are designed to fit together such that at least 90% of the length of each edge pattern physically abuts the other edge pattern when the two edge patterns are arranged side-by-side. Finally, some geometrically complementary edge patterns, which may be referred to as “fully abutting complementary edge patterns” are designed to fit together such that the entire the lengths of the edge patterns physically abut each other when the two edge patterns are arranged side-by-side.

Other geometrically complementary edge patterns 22 fit together with less than 50% of the length of each edge pattern physically abuts the other edge pattern when the two edge patterns are arranged side-by-side. For example, the example placemat shown in FIG. 15 (discussed in greater detail below below) has an edge pattern consisting of a group of circular shapes that define a complex pattern that contacts a complementary edge pattern only at a number of discreet points along the length of the respective edge patterns.

In some embodiments, one opposing pair of edge patterns are complex. For example, in some placemats, edge pattern 22A is geometrically complementary to itself and/or to opposing edge pattern 22B, and edge pattern 22B is geometrically complementary to itself and/or to opposing edge pattern 22A.

In some embodiments, placemat 10 includes at least one pair of opposing edge patterns 22 (e.g., opposing edge patterns 22A and 22B and/or opposing edge patterns 22C and 22D) in which each edge pattern 22 of the pair is both (a) a complex edge pattern and (b) geometrically complementary to itself and/or to its opposing edge pattern 22. In some embodiments, placemat 10 includes two pairs of opposing edge patterns 22 in which each edge pattern 22 of each opposing pair is both (a) a complex edge pattern and (b) geometrically complementary to itself and/or to its opposing edge pattern 22.

Each placemat 10 may have any suitable shape or profile in the dimension perpendicular to the major plane of the placemat, i.e., the z dimension perpendicular to the x-y plane of the placemat as shown in FIG. 1. For example, each placemat 10 may have a uniform thickness or a non-uniform thickness in the z dimension.

In some embodiments, one or both of the top surface and the bottom surface of placemat 10 may have a three-dimensionally contoured (i.e., non-smooth) shape, for one or more purposes, for example: (a) to provide slip resistance (e.g., by providing increased friction between the bottom surface of the placemat and the table and/or between the top surface of the placemat and dishes, cookware, or other items), (b) to provide desired heat transfer properties (e.g., to protect the underlying table and/or to insulate the dishes, cookware, or other items placed on the placemat, (c) for decorative purposes, (d) to capture or control liquid spills, and/or (e) for any other suitable purpose.

In some embodiments, each placemat 10 has a three-dimensionally contoured top surface and a generally smooth or non-three-dimensionally contoured bottom surface. In other embodiments, each placemat 10 has a three-dimensionally contoured top surface and a three-dimensionally contoured bottom surface, wherein the bottom surface contour may be the same as or different than the top surface contour. For example, the bottom surface contour may be less contoured, or flatter, than the top surface contour.

In some embodiments, the top surface contour defines a three-dimensional textured pattern having a plurality of peaks and valleys. For example, in the example embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the top surface contour of placemat 10 includes a pattern of interconnected pyramid-shaped volumes that define a three-dimensional contour having a pattern of peaks and valleys. The bottom surface of such placemat 10 may have a similar or identical contour as the top surface (such that the placemat is “reversible”), or may have a different contour, such as a smooth surface or a different three-dimensional contour. For example, in some embodiments, the three-dimensional top surface contour is designed to provide desired friction and/or heat transfer properties between the placemat and dishes, cookware, or other items to be placed on the placemat, and/or a desired decorative appearance, while the smooth or three-dimensional bottom surface contour is designed to provide desired friction and/or heat transfer properties between the placemat and a table.

In some embodiments, placemats 10 may have one or more features defined in the z-direction, e.g., near one or more sides 20 of the respective placemat, that may facilitate the abutment, mating, or coupling of adjacent placements arranged as a table runner. For example, each placemat 10 may include tongue-and-groove structures at opposing sides 20 (e.g., a tongue structure at sides 20A and a groove structure at 20B of each placemat 10), such that the placemats may be mated together in an end-to-end manner to form a runner 14.

As another example, each placemat 10 may include regions of reduced thickness (in the z dimension) near opposing sides 20, as compared to a thicker central region between the regions of reduced thickness. The reduced thickness side regions may be configured such that the reduced thickness side regions of adjacent placemats (when arranged to form a runner 14) may be placed in an overlapping manner, such that the region of overlap has a total thickness similar to the thickness of the central region between the reduced thickness side regions, thereby providing a continuous runner 14 having a substantially constant thickness along the length of the runner 14. Thus, in some embodiments, the thickness of each reduced thickness side region may be approximately one half the thickness of the central region between the reduced thickness side regions. In other embodiments, each reduced thickness side region has a tapered thickness that decreases in thickness toward the respective edge of the placemat. For example, in each placemat 10, the thickness of a first side region tapers from the top surface downward toward the bottom surface, while the thickness of a second side region opposite the first side region tapers from the bottom surface upward toward the top surface (i.e., inversely from the taper of the first side region), such that the tapered first and second side regions of adjacent placemats 10 may be arranged in an overlapping manner to provide a substantially constant total thickness across the transition between the adjacent placemats.

Placemat 10 may be formed from any suitable material or multiple different materials. In some embodiments, placemat 10 is a formed from a single material. The material may be suitable for various purposes, e.g., to provide one or more of a desired slip resistance, heat transfer properties, liquid-resistant or liquid-proof properties, stain-resistant or stain-proof properties, dishwasher-safe properties, manufacturing abilities, and/or a desired decorative appearance. For example, placemat 10 may be formed from a plastic, rubber, polymer, or silicone material. As a particular example, placemat 10 may be formed from a polymerized siloxane (or polysiloxane), often referred to as silicone rubber.

In some embodiments, placemat 10 may be formed from multiple different materials arranged in any suitable manner, e.g., in layers. For example, placemat 10 may have a top layer formed from a first material that defines the top surface of the placemat 10 and a bottom layer formed from a different second material that defines the bottom surface of the placemat 10, and/or zero, one, or more intermediate layers between the top and bottom layers, which may be formed from any suitable materials (e.g., one or more third materials different than the first and second materials).

In such embodiments, the top layer material and bottom layer material may be selected based on one or more aspects relevant to the top and bottom surfaces, respectively, of a placemat or table runner. For example, the top layer material may be selected to provide desired slip resistance and/or heat transfer properties between the top surface of the placemat and dishes, cookware, or other items placed on the placemat, and/or to provide a desired decorative appearance, while the top layer material may be selected to provide desired slip resistance and/or heat transfer properties between the bottom surface of the placemat and a table.

For example, in some embodiments, placemat 10 includes a top layer formed from a first plastic, rubber, polymer, or silicone material, and a bottom layer formed from a second plastic, rubber, polymer, or silicone material different then the first material. For instance, placemat 10 may include a top layer formed from silicone rubber and a bottom layer formed from a different plastic, rubber, polymer, or silicone material, or alternatively, placemat 10 may include a bottom layer formed from silicone rubber and a top layer formed from a different plastic, rubber, polymer, or silicone material.

A set of convertible placemats 10 may include any suitable number of placemats, e.g., four, five, six, eight, ten, or any other number, and all or any subset of a set of convertible placemats 10 may be arranged to form a table runner. Further, in any set of convertible placemats 10, each placemat may have the same shape as any number of other placemats in that set.

For example, in some embodiments, all placemats in a particular set may have the same shape.

As another example, in some embodiments, a set of placemats may include a first subset of placemats (e.g., 2 or 4 placemats) having a first shape, a second subset of placemats (e.g., 2 or 4 placemats) having a different second shape. In some such embodiments, the first subset of placemats may have at least one edge pattern that is geometrically complementary with at least one edge pattern of the second subset of placemats, such that placemats of the first and second subsets may be arranged together in a row (e.g., in an alternating manner) to form a runner.

As another example, each placemat in a set of placemats may have a different shape. In some such embodiments, each placemat may have at least one edge pattern that is geometrically complementary with at least one edge pattern of one or more of the other placemats in the set, such that all or at least a subset of the placemats may be arranged together in a row to form a runner.

Example Embodiments of Convertible Placemats and Corresponding Example Table Runner Configurations

FIGS. 4A-17C discussed below illustrate various example embodiments of placemat 10 including various features or combinations of features discussed above. It should be understood that the illustrated examples are examples only, and that other embodiments may include any suitable combination of the features discussed above.

FIGS. 4A-4C illustrate a first example placemat 10A and a set of multiple placemats 10A that may be arranged to form a table runner 14. FIG. 4A shows an outer perimeter shape of placemat 10A as viewed from above, and FIGS. 4B and 4C show two possible arrangements of multiple placemats 10A (e.g., from a set of placemats 10A) to form two different table runner configurations 14A₁and 14A₂. A reference marker, namely a star, is included on each placemat 10A to show the relative orientation of each placemat 10A.

As shown in FIG. 4A, placemat 10A includes a first pair of opposing edge patterns 22A and 22B in which each edge pattern 22A and 22B is (a) complex and (b) geometrically complementary to the opposing edge pattern 22, but not to itself, and a second pair of opposing edge patterns 22C and 22D in which each edge pattern 22C and 22D is (a) complex and (b) geometrically complementary to the opposing edge pattern 22 and/or to itself. Because both pairs of opposing edge patterns are geometrically complementary, multiple placemats 10A can be arranged in at least two different configurations to form two different table runner configurations 14A₁and 14A₂, as shown in FIGS. 4B and 4C.

It should be understood that number of placemats 10 shown in the example runner configurations of FIGS. 4B and 4C (three and five placemats, respectively) was selected for illustrative purposes only, and that any suitable or desired number of placemats 10 may be arranged in a similar manner to form a runner 14. This also applies to every other example runner configuration shown in the figures.

FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate a second example placemat 10B and a set of multiple placemats 10B that may be arranged to form a table runner 14B. Again, a reference marker, namely a star, is included on each placemat 10B to show the relative orientation of each placemat 10B.

In this example embodiment, each edge pattern 22A and 22B is both (a) complex and (b) geometrically complementary to both the opposing edge pattern 22, and to itself. In particular, edge pattern 22A includes first and second edge pattern portions 24A and 24B that are identical to each other, but rotated 180 degrees relative to each other, or in other words, mirrored about both side axis D_EPof edge pattern 22A and centerline C (perpendicular to side axis D_EP). Edge pattern 22B is similarly shaped. Thus, because edge patterns 22A and 22B are geometrically complementary to each other and to themselves, placemats 10B may be arranged end-to-end in either 180 degree orientation, as indicated in the example runner configuration 14B shown in FIG. 5B.

FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate a second example placemat 10C and a set of multiple placemats 10C that may be arranged to form a table runner 14C. Again, a reference marker, namely a star, is included on each placemat 10C to show the relative orientation of each placemat 10C. In this example embodiment, each opposing edge pattern 22A and 22B is (a) a complex curved pattern and (b) geometrically complementary to the opposing edge pattern 22, but not to itself. Opposing edge patterns 22C and 22D are linear (i.e., not complex).

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate a second example placemat 10D and a set of multiple placemats 10D that may be arranged to form a table runner 14D. Again, a reference marker, namely a star, is included on each placemat 10D to show the relative orientation of each placemat 10D. In this example embodiment, each opposing edge pattern 22A and 22B is (a) complex and (b) geometrically complementary to the opposing edge pattern 22, but not to itself.

In this example, each edge pattern 22A and 22B is geometrically complementary to the opposing edge pattern 22 in a slight offset manner. In particular, edge pattern 22A includes an edge pattern portion 26A that is geometrically complementary with an edge pattern portion 26B of opposing edge pattern 22B. Thus, as shown in FIG. 7B, when placemats 10D are abutted and arranged as a table runner 14D, the placemats 10D are offset from each other in the lateral direction (i.e., perpendicular to the elongated direction of the runner 14D), thus forming an offset portion 32 between each pair of adjacent placemats 10D. As discussed above, the extent of offset portion 32 in the lateral direction (perpendicular to the elongated direction of the runner 14D) may be less than 50%, less than 25%, or less than 10% of the width of each placemat 14D in the same lateral direction, depending on the particular embodiment.

FIG. 8 illustrates an example three-dimensional convertible placemat 10E having geometrically complementary sides for selective arrangement of multiple placemats 10E in at least two different runner configurations 14. Example placemat 10E includes a first pair of opposing edge patterns 22A and 22B in which each edge pattern 22A and 22B is (a) complex and (b) geometrically complementary to the opposing edge pattern 22 and to itself; and a second pair of opposing edge patterns 22C and 22D in which each edge pattern 22C and 22D is (a) complex and (b) geometrically complementary to the opposing edge pattern 22 and to itself. Because both pairs of opposing edge patterns are geometrically complementary, placemats 10E can be arranged in at least two different configurations to form two different table runner configurations 14E₁and 14E₂, as shown. Further, due to the repeating patterns defined by each edge pattern 22A-22D, adjacent placemats 10E in either configuration 14E₁or 14E₂may be arranged offset from each other (in a direction generally perpendicular to the direction of the runner) by one or more instances of the repeating pattern.

In some embodiments, the internal lines within the perimeter of each placemat 10E, indicated at C_3D, represent three-dimensional contour lines defining a three-dimensional texture of the top surface of the placemat 10E. Thus, intersections of two or more contour lines C_3Dmay define local peaks or valleys within the top surface texture. The bottom surface of each placemat 10E may have the same three-dimensional texture as the top surface, or a different three-dimensional texture, or may have a generally flat or smooth texture, e.g., as discussed below with reference to FIGS. 16A-16D.

FIG. 9 illustrates an example three-dimensional convertible placemat 10F having geometrically complementary sides for selective arrangement of multiple placemats 10F in at least two different runner configurations 14. Example placemat 10F includes a first pair of opposing edge patterns 22A and 22B in which each edge pattern 22A and 22B is (a) complex and (b) geometrically complementary to the opposing edge pattern 22 and to itself and a second pair of opposing edge patterns 22C and 22D in which each edge pattern 22C and 22D is (a) complex and (b) geometrically complementary to the opposing edge pattern 22 and to itself. Because both pairs of opposing edge patterns are geometrically complementary, placemats 1 OF can be arranged in at least two different configurations to form two different table runner configurations 14F₁and 14F₂, as shown. Further, due to the repeating patterns defined by each edge pattern 22A-22D, adjacent placemats 10F in either configuration 14F₁or 14F₂may be arranged offset from each other (in a direction generally perpendicular to the direction of the runner) by one or more instances of the repeating pattern.

In some embodiments, the internal lines within the perimeter of each placemat 10F, indicated at C_3D, represent three-dimensional contour lines defining a three-dimensional texture of the top surface of the placemat 10F, e.g., as discussed above regarding FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 illustrates an example three-dimensional convertible placemat 10G having geometrically complementary sides for selective arrangement of multiple placemats 10G in at least two different runner configurations 14. Example placemat 10G includes a first pair of opposing edge patterns 22A and 22B in which each edge pattern 22A and 22B is (a) complex and (b) geometrically complementary to the opposing edge pattern 22 and to itself, both in a non-interlocking manner; and a second pair of opposing edge patterns 22C and 22D in which each edge pattern 22C and 22D is (a) complex and (b) geometrically complementary to the opposing edge pattern 22 in an interlocking manner, but not geometrically complementary to itself. Because both pairs of opposing edge patterns are geometrically complementary, placemats 10G can be arranged in at least two different configurations to form two different table runner configurations 14G₁and 14G₂, as shown. In the table runner configuration 14G₂, protrusions 36 defined in edge pattern 22D are sized and shaped to be received in recesses 38 defined in edge pattern 22D, such that adjacent placemats 10G can be coupled in an interlocking manner, e.g., to help secure adjacent placemats 10G to each other. Further, due to the repeating patterns defined by each edge pattern 22A-22D, adjacent placemats 10G in either configuration 14G₁or 14G₂may be arranged offset from each other (in a direction generally perpendicular to the direction of the runner) by one or more instances of the repeating pattern.

In some embodiments, the internal lines within the perimeter of each placemat 10G, indicated at C_3D, represent three-dimensional contour lines defining a three-dimensional texture of the top surface of the placemat 10G, e.g., as discussed above regarding FIG. 8.

FIG. 11 illustrates an example three-dimensional convertible placemat 10H having geometrically complementary sides for selective arrangement of multiple placemats 10H in at least two different runner configurations 14. Example placemat 10H includes a first pair of opposing edge patterns 22A and 22B in which each edge pattern 22A and 22B is (a) complex and (b) geometrically complementary to the opposing edge pattern 22 and to itself; and a second pair of opposing edge patterns 22C and 22D in which each edge pattern 22C and 22D is (a) complex and (b) geometrically complementary to the opposing edge pattern 22 and to itself. Because both pairs of opposing edge patterns are geometrically complementary, placemats 10H can be arranged in at least two different configurations to form two different table runner configurations 14H₁and 14H₂, as shown. Further, due to the repeating patterns defined by each edge pattern 22A-22D, adjacent placemats 10H in either configuration 14H₁or 14H₂may be arranged offset from each other (in a direction generally perpendicular to the direction of the runner) by one or more instances of the repeating pattern.

In some embodiments, the internal lines within the perimeter of each placemat 10H, indicated at C_3D, represent three-dimensional contour lines defining a three-dimensional texture of the top surface of the placemat 10H, e.g., as discussed above regarding FIG. 8.

FIG. 12 illustrates an example three-dimensional convertible placemat 10J having geometrically complementary sides for selective arrangement of multiple placemats 10J in at least two different runner configurations 14. Example placemat 10J has a hexagonal perimeter shape defining six edge patterns 22A-22F, each of which is (a) complex and (b) geometrically complementary to every other edge pattern 22 and to itself. Thus, placemats 10J can be arranged in a wide variety of table runner configurations 14, e.g., a configuration 14J₁in which placemats 10J are arranged in a row of single placemats, and configuration 14J₂, in which pairs of placemats 10J are arranged in a row.

In some embodiments, the internal lines within the perimeter of each placemat 10J, indicated at C_3D, represent three-dimensional contour lines defining a three-dimensional texture of the top surface of the placemat 10J, e.g., as discussed above regarding FIG. 8.

FIG. 13 illustrates an example three-dimensional convertible placemat 10K having geometrically complementary sides for selective arrangement of multiple placemats 10K in at least two different runner configurations 14K. Example placemat 10K includes a first pair of opposing edge patterns 22A and 22B in which each edge pattern 22A and 22B is (a) complex and (b) geometrically complementary to the opposing edge pattern 22 and to itself, both in an interlocking manner; and a second pair of opposing edge patterns 22C and 22D in which each edge pattern 22C and 22D is (a) complex and (b) geometrically complementary to the opposing edge pattern 22 and to itself, both in a non-interlocking manner. Because both pairs of opposing edge patterns are geometrically complementary, placemats 10K can be arranged in at least two different configurations to form two different table runner configurations 14K₁and 14K₂, as shown. In the table runner configuration 14K₁, protrusions 36 defined in edge pattern 22A are sized and shaped to be received in recesses 38 defined in edge pattern 22B, such that adjacent placemats 10K can be coupled in an interlocking manner, e.g., to help secure adjacent placemats 10K to each other. Further, due to the repeating patterns defined by each edge pattern 22A-22D, adjacent placemats 10K in either configuration 14K₁or 14K₂may be arranged offset from each other (in a direction generally perpendicular to the direction of the runner) by one or more instances of the repeating pattern.

In some embodiments, the internal lines within the perimeter of each placemat 10K, indicated at C_3D, represent three-dimensional contour lines defining a three-dimensional texture of the top surface of the placemat 10K, e.g., as discussed above regarding FIG. 8.

FIG. 14 illustrates an example three-dimensional convertible placemat 10L having geometrically complementary, curved sides for selective arrangement of multiple placemats 10L in at least two different runner configurations 14. Example placemat 10L includes a first pair of opposing curved edge patterns 22A and 22B in which each edge pattern 22A and 22B is (a) complex and (b) geometrically complementary to the opposing edge pattern 22 and to itself; and a second pair of opposing curved edge patterns 22C and 22D in which each edge pattern 22C and 22D is (a) complex and (b) geometrically complementary to the opposing edge pattern 22 but not to itself. Because both pairs of opposing edge patterns are geometrically complementary, placemats 10L can be arranged in at least two different configurations to form two different table runner configurations 14L₁and 14L₂, as shown. Further, due to the repeating patterns defined by each edge pattern 22A-22D, adjacent placemats 10L in either configuration 14L₁or 14L₂may be arranged offset from each other (in a direction generally perpendicular to the direction of the runner) by one or more instances of the repeating pattern.

In some embodiments, the internal lines within the perimeter of each placemat 10L, indicated at C_3D, represent three-dimensional contour lines defining a three-dimensional texture of the top surface of the placemat 10L, e.g., as discussed above regarding FIG. 8.

FIG. 15 illustrates an example three-dimensional convertible placemat 10M having geometrically complementary sides for selective arrangement of multiple placemats 10M in at least two different runner configurations 14. Example placemat 10M includes a first pair of opposing edge patterns 22A and 22B in which each edge pattern 22A and 22B is (a) complex and (b) geometrically complementary to the opposing edge pattern 22 and to itself; and a second pair of opposing edge patterns 22C and 22D in which each edge pattern 22C and 22D is (a) complex and (b) geometrically complementary to the opposing edge pattern 22 and to itself.

As shown, placemat 10M includes an array or cluster of rounded or circular nodules 34 connected to each other to form a unitary structure defining openings or gaps between adjacent nodules 34. In some embodiments, nodules 34 are convexly rounded or otherwise contoured shape in the third dimension (i.e., the z dimension shown in FIG. 1) on the top and/or bottom of the placemat 34. Thus, placemat 10M may have a three-dimensional, “bumpy” texture on the top surface (and in some embodiments on the bottom surface as well). Placemat 10 may be formed in any suitable manner, e.g., cast or molded as an integral structure, or by forming and combining individual nodules in any suitable manner.

Each edge pattern 22A-22D is defined by the outer perimeters of a number of nodules 34, and defines contours (e.g., protruding regions and recessed regions) that fit together in a geometrically complementary manner (with the opposing edge pattern 22), as shown in FIG. 15. Because both pairs of opposing edge patterns are geometrically complementary, placemats 10M can be arranged in at least two different configurations to form two different table runner configurations 14M₁and 14M₂, as shown. Further, due to the repeating patterns defined by each edge pattern 22A-22D, adjacent placemats 10M in either configuration 14M₁or 14M₂may be arranged offset from each other (in a direction generally perpendicular to the direction of the runner) by one or more instances of the repeating pattern.

FIGS. 16A-16D illustrate example side cross-sections of four example placemats 10N, 10P, 10Q, and 10R, e.g., taken through the centerline C shown in FIG. 4A.

Example placemat 10N shown in FIG. 16A has a three-dimensionally contoured top surface 40 and a generally smooth or non-three-dimensionally contoured bottom surface 42A.

Example placemat 10P shown in FIG. 16B has a three-dimensionally contoured top surface 40 and a similarly or identically contoured bottom surface 42B.

Example placemat 10Q shown in FIG. 16C has a three-dimensionally contoured top surface 40 and a three-dimensionally contoured top surface bottom surface 42C, wherein the bottom surface contour is less contoured (or “flatter”) than the top surface contour.

As discussed above, each placemat 10 may have any other suitable three-dimensional contours defining the top and/or bottom surfaces of the placemat 10.

FIG. 16D shows an example placemat 10R for the purposes of discussing various contour features and dimensional aspects of the placemat texture. Example placemat 10R is shown with a particular three-dimensionally contoured top surface 40 and three-dimensionally contoured top surface bottom surface 42, but may have any other three-dimensionally contoured top surface and/or three-dimensionally contoured bottom surface (or a generally smooth or flat bottom surface), e.g., as discussed herein. Example placemat 1 OR is shown resting on a horizontal surface S.

As shown, the top surface 40 has a three-dimensional surface texture defined by an array of interconnected three-dimensional structures 46 (e.g., an array of interconnected pyramids in the illustrated example). Each three-dimensional structure 46 may define one or more local peaks P, which may be embodied as points or surfaces, for example. The array of interconnected three-dimensional structures 46 may also define a plurality of local valleys V between two or more adjacent peaks P. In some embodiments, each peak P is located in a top surface plane TSP. In other embodiments, e.g., the example shown in FIG. 16D, a subset of peaks P is located in a top surface plane TSP, while at least one other peak, indicated here as peak P′, is located below or above the top surface plane TSP. In some embodiments, at least a minimum percentage of peaks P is located in the top surface plane TSP, e.g., at least 30%, at least 50%, at least 70%, or at least 90% or peaks P are located in the top surface plane TSP.

For some embodiments, a “texture ratio” may be defines as the ratio of (a) a top surface texture variation TSV measured from the top surface plane TSP (or a particular peak P within the placemat perimeter) to a particular valley V (e.g., a lowest valley within the placemat perimeter) in a direction normal to the planar surface S to (b) a placemat thickness Tp measured from the from the top surface plane TSP (or the particular peak P) to the planar surface S in the direction normal to the planar surface S.

In some embodiments, the texture ratio is less than 10%. In other embodiments, the texture ratio is between 10% and 25%. In other embodiments, the texture ratio is above 25% and below 100%. For example, the texture ratio may be above 50% and below 100%. As another example, the texture ratio may be above 70% and below 100%. As another example, the texture ratio is above 80% and below 100%. In some embodiments, the texture ratio may be between 25% and 90%. For example, the texture ratio may be between 50% and 90%. As another example, the texture ratio may be between 70% and 90%. In placemats having an array of internal openings (e.g., the embodiment shown in FIG. 15), the texture ratio is 100%.

FIGS. 17A-17C illustrate an example placemat 10S and a set of multiple placemats 10S that may be arranged to form a table runner 14R. In particular, FIG. 17A shows an outer perimeter shape of placemat 10S as viewed from above, FIG. 17B shows a side cross-section of placemat 10S, and FIG. 17C shows an example arrangement of multiple placemats 10S to form a table runner configuration 14S. Again, a reference marker, namely a star, is included on each placemat 10S to show the relative orientation of each placemat 10S.

In this example embodiment, each placemat 10S includes regions of reduced thickness 50A and 50B at opposing sides 20A and 20B, respectively, between a central region 52 of non-reduced thickness. In particular, as shown in FIG. 17B, reduced thickness regions 50A and 50B are tapered in a complementary manner. Thus, as shown in FIG. 17C, placemats 10S can be arranged end-to-end with each tapered portion 50A and 50B of adjacent placemats 10S mating with each other in an overlapping manner, thus defining regions of overlap 54. Thus, the thickness of runner 14S may be uniform or substantially uniform along the length of the runner, including across the transitions between adjacent placemats 10S, while also providing a margin of error in aligning the adjacent placemats 10S without showing the underlying table between the adjacent placemats 10S.

Although the disclosed embodiments are described in detail in the present disclosure, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions and alterations can be made to the embodiments without departing from their spirit and scope.

Convertible Placemats and Table Runner

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