Patent Application
20120011795
The present disclosure relates to a covering module and more specifically to a covering module for installation on a subsurface and for attachment to additional modules to form a finished decorative surface.
It is common to attach a flexible decorative covering, such as vinyl, linoleum, carpets or more rigid decorative coverings to a rigid subsurface such as a floor, made of wood or concrete. It is often desirable, or even required, to fasten the decorative covering to the subsurface which it covers and a variety of attachment methods have been developed over the years.
Conventional methods of attaching decorative coverings are typically intended for the permanent installation of the decorative covering onto the subsurface. If a portion of the decorative covering becomes physically damaged or permanently stained, the replacement of a portion of the decorative covering, if at all possible, requires complex procedures and can be relatively expensive. Also, decorative coverings that are installed using conventional methods are typically not intended to be uninstalled and reused elsewhere. Thus, if a decorative covering that is still in good condition must be removed for any reason from a subsurface that is covered, often it can not easily be removed and reused at another location.
Covering modules may comprise a covering (e.g., carpet, tiles or vinyl) that is to be attached or installed on a substrate (e.g., floor, wall or concrete base). Frequently, such attachment is by way of an adhesive layer, either provided on the covering module itself (e.g., on a substrate-facing side), on the substrate (e.g., on a covering-receiving side) or on an intermediate layer between the covering module and the substrate. However, it may be difficult to properly align a covering module on a substrate since once the covering module is placed on the substrate, the adhesive layer typically holds fast to the covering module making it difficult or impossible to reposition or correct alignment of the covering module, or at least difficult or impossible to reposition the covering module without potentially damaging the covering module and/or the substrate.
Accordingly, there is a need for an improved covering module which addresses one or more of these problems.
In some aspects, the present disclosure provides a covering module for installation on a subsurface and for attachment to additional modules to form a finished decorative surface, the covering module comprising: a decorative covering having a back face; and an anchor sheet having a top face, the back face of the decorative covering being detachably attached to the top face of the anchor sheet; a portion of the decorative covering extending beyond a periphery of the anchor sheet so as to expose a joining region of the back face of the decorative covering; a portion of the anchor sheet extending beyond a periphery of the decorative covering so as to expose a joining region of the top face of the anchor sheet; the joining region of the decorative covering and the joining region of the anchor sheet each comprising a complementary portion of a first joining system of a first type and a second joining system of a second type.
In some examples, the first joining system comprises a hook and loop joining system and the second joining system comprises an adhesive joining system.
In some examples, the adhesive joining system is disposed in an edge region of the decorative covering.
In some examples, the adhesive joining system comprises a pressure-sensitive adhesive disposed on the anchor sheet.
In some examples, the hook and loop joining system comprises hooks disposed on the top face of the anchor sheet and complementary loops disposed on the back face of the decorative covering.
In some examples, the adhesive joining system comprises a pressure-sensitive adhesive disposed between the top face of the anchor sheet and a complementary area that is free of loops on the back face of the decorative covering.
In some examples, the adhesive joining system is disposed in an edge region of the decorative covering.
In some examples, the pressure-sensitive adhesive comprises a strip extending along an edge of the decorative covering.
In some examples, the anchor sheet is injection molded.
In some examples, the anchor sheet has a thickness that is greater than 1 mm.
In some examples, the back face of the decorative covering is detachably attached to the top face of the anchor sheet by the first joining system and by the second joining system.
In some aspects, there is provided a flooring module for installation on a subsurface and for attachment to additional modules to form a finished flooring surface, the flooring module comprising: a floor covering having a back face; and an anchor sheet having a top face, the back face of the floor covering being detachably attached to the top face of the anchor sheet by a hook and loop joining system and an adhesive joining system; a portion of the floor covering extending beyond a periphery of the anchor sheet so as to expose a joining region of the back face of the floor covering; a portion of the anchor sheet extending beyond a periphery of the floor covering so as to expose a joining region of the top face of the anchor sheet; the joining region of the floor covering and the joining region of the anchor sheet each comprising a complementary portion of the hook and loop joining system and of the adhesive joining system.
In some examples, the hook and loop joining system comprises hooks disposed on the top face of the anchor sheet and complementary loops disposed on the back face of the floor covering.
In some examples, the adhesive joining system comprises a pressure-sensitive adhesive disposed between the top face of the anchor sheet and a complementary area that is free of loops on the back face of the floor covering.
In some examples, the adhesive joining system is disposed along an edge of the floor covering.
In some examples, the anchor sheet is injection molded.
In some aspects, there is provided an anchor sheet for use in conjunction with a decorative covering for installation on a subsurface, the anchor sheet comprising: a substrate comprising a top face having an anchoring region for detachable attachment to a first decorative covering and a joining region for detachable attachment to a second decorative covering; a plurality of hooks disposed in the anchoring and joining regions; and a pressure-sensitive adhesive disposed in the anchoring and joining regions.
In some examples, the anchor sheet has a thickness that is greater than 1 mm.
In some examples, the anchor sheet comprises a protective cover disposed on at least a portion of the joining region.
In some examples, the pressure-sensitive adhesive is disposed so as to receive an edge region of the second decorative covering.
In some aspects, there is provided a covering module for installation onto a surface and for detachable attachment to at least one adjacent additional module to form a finished decorative surface, the covering module comprising: a decorative covering having a back face; an anchor sheet having a covering-receiving face, the back face of the decorative covering being detachably attached to the covering-receiving face of the anchor sheet; the covering module including: a portion of the decorative covering extending beyond a periphery of the anchor sheet so as to expose a joining region of the back face of the decorative covering, the joining region of the decorative covering having a contact surface; and a portion of the anchor sheet extending beyond a periphery of the decorative covering so as to expose a joining region of the covering-receiving face of the anchor sheet, the joining region of the anchor sheet having an interrupted surface; the joining region of the decorative covering and the joining region of the anchor sheet defining a contact interface, the contact interface comprising an adhesive for forming an interrupted adhesive bond with the at least one adjacent additional module; and a non-interrupted area located in an edge region of the decorative covering for facilitating an adhesive bond at at least one portion of the contact interface, the interrupted surface having at least one region permitting location of the non-interrupted area.
In some aspects, there is provided a covering module for installation onto a surface and for detachable attachment to at least one adjacent additional module to form a finished decorative surface, the covering module comprising: a decorative covering having a back face; an anchor sheet having a covering-receiving face, the back face of the decorative covering being attached to the covering-receiving face of the anchor sheet; the covering module including at least one of: a portion of the decorative covering extending beyond a periphery of the anchor sheet so as to expose a joining region of the back face of the decorative covering; and a portion of the anchor sheet extending beyond a periphery of the decorative covering so as to expose a joining region of the covering-receiving face of the anchor sheet; the at least one joining region of the decorative covering and the joining region of the anchor sheet having a cooperative component of a contact interface for forming an interrupted adhesive bond with the at least one adjacent additional module.
In some examples, the covering module further comprises a non-interrupted area located in an edge region of the decorative covering for facilitating an adhesive bond at at least one portion of the contact interface.
In some examples, the non-interrupted area is integral with one of the anchor sheet and the decorative covering.
In some examples, the non-interrupted area is “L”-shaped.
In some examples, the non-interrupted area has a width in the range of about 0.1 mm to about 5 cm.
In some examples, the covering-receiving face of the anchor sheet comprises an interrupted surface for forming the contact interface and the back face of the decorative covering comprises a contact surface for forming the contact interface, the contact interface comprising an adhesive for forming the interrupted adhesive bond between the interrupted surface and the contact surface.
In some examples, the covering module comprises a non-interrupted area located in an edge region of the decorative covering for facilitating an adhesive bond at at least one portion of the contact interface, the interrupted surface having at least one region permitting location of the non-interrupted area.
In some examples, the interrupted surface comprises at least one protrusion covering a range of about 0.01% to about 50% of the joining region of the anchor sheet.
In some examples, the interrupted surface is a regularly interrupted surface.
In some examples, the interrupted surface comprises a plurality of protrusions having substantially same height.
In some examples, the plurality of protrusions comprises a plurality of protrusions suitable for a hook and loop joining system.
In some examples, the plurality of protrusions comprise a plurality of posts.
In some examples, the plurality of protrusions have a density in the range of about 50 to about 2000 protrusions per square inch.
In some examples, the adhesive is a pressure sensitive adhesive.
In some examples, the anchor sheet has a thickness that is greater than 1 mm.
In some examples, the anchor sheet is injection molded.
In some examples, the back face of the decorative covering is detachably attached to the covering-receiving face of the anchor sheet by interrupted adhesive bond.
In some examples, the anchor sheet is permanently attached to the decorative covering.
In some examples, the decorative covering is made from at least one material selected from the group comprising: vinyl, luxury vinyl, linoleum, carpet, parquet, tile, wood, and ceramic.
In some aspects, there is provided a covering module for installation onto a surface and for detachable attachment to at least one adjacent additional module to form a finished decorative surface, the covering module comprising: a decorative covering; an anchor sheet; wherein at least a portion of the decorative covering is integral with at least a corresponding portion of the anchor sheet; the covering module including at least one of: a portion of the decorative covering extending beyond a periphery of the anchor sheet so as to expose a joining region of a back face of the decorative covering; and a portion of the anchor sheet extending beyond a periphery of the decorative covering so as to expose a joining region of a covering-receiving face of the anchor sheet; the at least one joining region of the decorative covering and the joining region of the anchor sheet having a cooperative component of a contact interface for forming an interrupted adhesive bond with the at least one adjacent additional module.
In some aspects, there is provided an anchor sheet for use in conjunction with a decorative covering for installation on a surface, the anchor sheet comprising: a substrate comprising a covering-receiving face having an anchoring region for detachable attachment to a first decorative covering and a joining region for detachable attachment to a second decorative covering; and an interrupted surface disposed in the anchoring and joining regions; wherein the joining region of the anchor sheet has a cooperative component of a contact interface for forming an interrupted adhesive bond with the second decorative covering.
In some examples, the anchor sheet comprises a non-interrupted in the joining region for facilitating an adhesive bond at at least one portion of the contact interface.
In some examples, the non-interrupted area is integral with the anchor sheet.
In some examples, the non-interrupted area is “L”-shaped.
In some examples, the non-interrupted area has a width in the range of about 0.1 mm to about 5 cm.
In some examples, the joining region comprises an interrupted surface for forming the contact interface.
In some examples, the anchor sheet further comprises a non-interrupted area in the joining region for facilitating an adhesive bond at at least one portion of the contact interface, the interrupted surface having at least one region permitting location of the non-interrupted area.
In some examples, the interrupted surface comprises at least one protrusion covering a range of about 0.01% to about 50% of the joining region of the anchor sheet.
In some examples, the interrupted surface is a regularly interrupted surface.
In some examples, the interrupted surface comprises a plurality of protrusions having substantially same height.
In some examples, the plurality of protrusions comprises a plurality of protrusions suitable for a hook and loop joining system.
In some examples, the plurality of protrusions comprise a plurality of posts.
In some examples, the plurality of protrusions have a density in the range of about 50 to about 2000 protrusions per square inch.
In some examples, the anchor sheet has a thickness that is greater than 1 mm.
In some examples, the anchor sheet is injection molded.
In some aspects, there is provided a covering module for installation onto a surface and for detachable attachment to at least one adjacent additional module to form a finished decorative surface, the covering module comprising: a decorative covering having a back face; an anchor sheet having a covering-receiving face, the back face of the decorative covering being detachably attached to the covering-receiving face of the anchor sheet; the covering module including: a portion of the decorative covering extending beyond a periphery of the anchor sheet so as to expose a joining region of the back face of the decorative covering; and a portion of the anchor sheet extending beyond a periphery of the decorative covering so as to expose a joining region of the covering-receiving face of the anchor sheet; at least one of the joining region of the decorative covering and the joining region of the anchor sheet having a compartmentalized surface, wherein the compartmentalized surface defines at least one void for inhibiting the flow of a fluid containable therein; the joining region of the decorative covering and the joining region of the anchor sheet defining a contact interface, the contact interface comprising an adhesive for forming an adhesive bond with the at least one adjacent additional module.
In some examples, the covering module further comprises a non-compartmentalized area located in an edge region of the decorative covering for facilitating an adhesive bond at at least one portion of the contact interface.
In some examples, the non-interrupted area is integral with one of the anchor sheet and the decorative covering.
In some examples, the non-interrupted area is “L”-shaped.
In some examples, the non-interrupted area has a width in the range of about 0.1 mm to about 5 cm.
In some examples, the compartmentalized surface is provided at least on the joining region of the anchor sheet.
In some examples, the at least one void covers a range of about 0.01% to about 50% of the contact interface.
In some examples, the compartmentalized surface comprises a plurality of regularly distributed voids.
In some examples, the compartmentalized surface comprises a plurality of voids having substantially same depth.
In some examples, the compartmentalized surface comprises at least one aperture.
In some examples, the compartmentalized surface further comprises a plurality of protrusions suitable for a hook and loop joining system.
In some examples, the plurality of protrusions comprise a plurality of posts.
In some examples, the plurality of protrusions have a density in the range of about 50 to about 2000 protrusions per square inch.
In some examples, the adhesive is a pressure sensitive adhesive.
In some examples, the anchor sheet has a thickness that is greater than 1 mm.
In some examples, the anchor sheet is injection molded.
In some examples, the anchor sheet is permanently attached to the decorative covering.
In some examples, the decorative covering is made from at least one material selected from the group comprising: vinyl, luxury vinyl, linoleum, carpet, parquet, tile, wood, and ceramic.
In some aspects, there is provided a covering module for installation onto a surface and for detachable attachment to at least one adjacent additional module to form a finished decorative surface, the covering module comprising: a decorative covering; an anchor sheet; wherein at least a portion of the decorative covering is integral or permanently attached with at least a corresponding portion of the anchor sheet; the covering module including at least one of: a portion of the decorative covering extending beyond a periphery of the anchor sheet so as to expose a joining region of a back face of the decorative covering; and a portion of the anchor sheet extending beyond a periphery of the decorative covering so as to expose a joining region of a covering-receiving face of the anchor sheet; at least one of the joining region of the decorative covering and the joining region of the anchor sheet having a compartmentalized surface, wherein the compartmentalized surface defines at least one void for inhibiting the flow of a fluid containable therein; the at least one joining region of the decorative covering and the joining region of the anchor sheet having a cooperative component of a contact interface for forming an adhesive bond with the at least one adjacent additional module.
In some aspects, there is provided an anchor sheet for use in conjunction with a decorative covering for installation on a surface, the anchor sheet comprising: a substrate comprising a covering-receiving face having an anchoring region for detachable attachment to a first decorative covering and a joining region for detachable attachment to a second decorative covering; and a compartmentalized surface disposed at least in the joining region, wherein the compartmentalized surface defines at least one void for inhibiting the flow of a fluid containable therein; wherein the joining region of the anchor sheet has a cooperative component of a contact interface for forming an adhesive bond with the second decorative covering.
In some examples, the compartmentalized surface is further disposed in the anchoring region.
In some examples, the anchor sheet further comprises a non-compartmentalized in the joining region for facilitating an adhesive bond at at least one portion of the contact interface.
In some examples, the non-interrupted area is integral with the anchor sheet.
In some examples, the non-interrupted area is “L”-shaped.
In some examples, the non-interrupted area has a width in the range of about 0.1 mm to about 5 cm.
In some examples, the at least one void covers a range of about 0.01% to about 50% of the joining region of the anchor sheet.
In some examples, the compartmentalized surface comprises a plurality of voids having a regular distribution.
In some examples, the compartmentalized surface comprises a plurality of voids having substantially same depth.
In some examples, the compartmentalized surface comprises at least one aperture.
In some examples, the compartmentalized surface comprises a plurality of protrusions suitable for a hook and loop joining system.
In some examples, the plurality of protrusions comprise a plurality of posts.
In some examples, the plurality of protrusions have a density in the range of about 50 to about 2000 protrusions per square inch.
In some examples, the anchor sheet has a thickness that is greater than 1 mm.
In some examples, the anchor sheet is injection molded.
In some aspects, there is provided an anchor sheet for use in conjunction with a decorative covering for installation on a surface, the anchor sheet comprising: a substrate comprising a covering-receiving face having an anchoring region for detachable attachment to a first decorative covering and a joining region for detachable attachment to a second decorative covering; and a plurality of protrusions extending from a surface-engaging face opposite to the covering-receiving face for elevating the anchor sheet from the surface; wherein the joining region of the anchor sheet has a cooperative component of a contact interface for forming an adhesive bond with the second decorative covering.
In some examples, the anchor sheet further comprises a compartmentalized surface disposed at least on the joining region, wherein the compartmentalized surface defines at least one void for inhibiting the flow of a fluid containable therein.
In some examples, the plurality of protrusions is configured substantially symmetrically to the compartmentalized surface.
In some examples, the at least one void defines at least a portion of the plurality of protrusions.
In some examples, the plurality of protrusions covers about 0.01% to about 50% of the surface-engaging face.
In some examples, the plurality of protrusions is provided in a density of about 100 to about 500 protrusions per square inch.
In some aspects, there is provided a use of a temporary covering for attaching a decorative covering to a substrate, there being an adhesive layer for forming adhesive bond between the decorative covering and the substrate, the temporary covering having reduced receptiveness to the adhesive layer.
In some aspects, there is provided a method of attaching a decorative covering to a substrate using a temporary covering, the method comprising: providing a temporary covering between the decorative covering and the substrate; moving the decorative covering into a desired position; and removing the temporary covering, thereby allowing formation of an adhesive bond between the decorative covering and the substrate; wherein the temporary covering has reduced receptiveness to formation of the adhesive bond.
Other and further advantages and features of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of example embodiments thereof, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
The present disclosure will be further understood from the following detailed description of example embodiments of the present disclosure, with reference to the drawings in which:
Similar references are used in different figures to denote similar components.
The presently disclosed covering module may be used for installation on a surface to be covered such as a floor or a wall, for example, and for detachable attachment to additional modules to form a finished decorative surface. As used in the present disclosure, the term “surface” may refer to finished or unfinished surfaces to be covered, including wood, concrete, tiled, carpeted, or covered surfaces, and may also refer to subsurfaces. In a flooring application, the covering module could be a flooring module that could be installed so that it is free-floating on the surface to be covered so that it can be uninstalled and reused elsewhere. The covering module could also be designed to be fixed to the surface at one or more discrete points, for example when the surface is a wall.
In various example embodiments, the covering module includes a decorative covering and an anchor sheet. The decorative covering and the anchor sheet may be detachably attached, may be permanently or non-detachably attached or may be integral with each other. The covering module includes at least one joining region for detachable or permanent (i.e., non-detachable) attachment to at least one adjacent module.
Example variants of the covering module are now described
According to the exemplary embodiment shown in the figures, the first joining system may comprise a hook and loop joining system and the second joining system may include an adhesive joining system. The hook and loop joining system may comprise hooks 24 disposed on the top face 16 of the anchor sheet 12 and complementary loops 26 disposed on the back face 22 of the decorative covering 14. The adhesive joining system may have properties allowing it to be released and reused, and may comprise a pressure-sensitive adhesive 28 disposed between the top face 16 anchor sheet 12 and a complementary area 30 that is optionally free of loops 26 disposed on the back face 22 of the decorative covering 14.
The hooks 24 on the anchor sheet 12 may be integrally formed with the substrate 15 or they may be otherwise attached to the anchor sheet 12. Accordingly, they may be molded together as one piece with the substrate 15. The hooks 24 may be provided in any suitable shape, size and configuration that will work with the complementary loops 26 on the back face 22 of the decorative covering 14. For example, the hooks 24 may have also a mushroom shape (not shown) in order to simplify the tooling required for injection molding the substrate 15 together with the hooks 24. The hook density on the top face 16 of the anchor sheet 12 may be selected to provide a suitable bond strength between the anchor sheet 12 and the decorative covering 14. The hook density may also be selected based on a necessary peel force required to detach the decorative covering 14 from the anchor sheet 12.
The pressure-sensitive adhesive 28 may be provided in any suitable form known in the art. For example, it may be applied to the top face 16 of the anchor sheet 12, or, alternatively, it could be provided on the back face 22 of the decorative covering 14. In another embodiment, the pressure-sensitive adhesive 28 could comprise two complementary components where a first component is applied to the decorative covering 14 and a second component is applied to the anchor sheet 12. For example, the pressure-sensitive adhesive 28 may be provided in the form of a suitable double-sided adhesive tape or may be an adhesive that is applied in liquid form. In any case, the pressure-sensitive adhesive 28 should be selected so that it provides a sufficient bond and shear strength between the decorative covering 14 and the anchor sheet 12. Advantageously, the pressure-sensitive adhesive 28 could also be selected so that it is reusable a number of times and that the decorative covering 14 can be detached from the anchor sheet 12 and replaced with a new decorative covering 14 even several years after the initial installation. The pressure-sensitive adhesive 28 may also be selected to have a good resistance to moisture.
The use of joining systems of different types between the decorative covering 14 and the anchor sheet 12 may provide several advantages. Firstly, the use of an adhesive joining system in combination with the hook-and-loop joining system may provide a hybrid solution where the ease of detachment of the decorative covering 14 from the anchor sheet 12 provided by the hook-and-loop joining system is maintained while any lateral movement, which may be inherent to a hook-and-loop joining system, between the decorative covering 14 and the anchor sheet 12 is reduced or eliminated through the use of the pressure-sensitive adhesive 28. Also, the pressure-sensitive adhesive 28 may be disposed in regions near or at edges 38 of the decorative covering 14 in the form of a strip of a certain width. At this location, the pressure-sensitive adhesive 28 may reduce the likelihood of mold forming under the decorative covering 14 by inhibiting moisture from seeping under the decorative covering 14 in the event of a spill for example. The pressure-sensitive adhesive 28 can also reduce or eliminate the occurrence or curling of the corners of the decorative covering 14. In a flooring application, this may allow the covering module 10 to sustain heavier loads and also have an increased resistance to rolling loads. The pressure-sensitive adhesive 28 may also be disposed in an intermittent manner such as in a few discrete locations.
Another advantage provided by the two types of joining systems between the decorative covering 14 and the anchor sheet 12 is that the decorative covering 14 can easily be removed and replaced with a new decorative covering 14 for reasons such as if it becomes damaged. Once installed, the decorative covering 14 may be removed independently from the anchor sheet 12 and replaced, or an entire covering module 10 may be removed altogether if it needs to be moved and installed at a different location. This provides the option of uninstalling a covering module 10 without damaging it and reusing it at a different location if desired. Depending on the type of pressure-sensitive adhesive 28 that is used, the covering module 10, or only the decorative covering 14, may be uninstalled without the use of tools. Alternatively, in other cases, it may be necessary to apply heat to the area in question in order to loosen the pressure-sensitive adhesive during removal or to re-activate its adhesive properties during installation. Care should be taken so as to reduce contamination of the pressure-sensitive adhesive 28 from dust or other materials during installation. Advantageously, a replacement decorative covering 14 could be provided with a replacement pressure-sensitive adhesive 28. Alternatively, a replacement decorative covering 14 could comprise only pressure-sensitive adhesive 28 or only loops 26 on its back face 22. In a further embodiment, hooks 24 could be provided on the back face 22 of the decorative covering 14 and loops 26 could be provided on the top face 16 of the anchor sheet 12.
By “interrupted adhesive bond” is meant that the adhesive bond is not uniform and continuous over the contact interface, but rather has portions having the adhesive bond interrupted by portions without any adhesive bond. In some example embodiments, the interrupted adhesive bond is a regularly interrupted adhesive bond, meaning that the portions with the adhesive bond and the portions without any adhesive bond are found in a regular or repeating pattern. In some instances the bond may be formed in an irregular pattern.
According to the exemplary embodiment shown in the figures, the contact interface may comprise an interrupted surface 24b, a contact surface 26b, and an adhesive 28b. This counter-intuitive arrangement is different than traditional arrangements which may include an adhesive on one surface which is complimented by another adhesive on the other surface (or by a generally smooth surface for receiving the adhesive). The present embodiment includes non-complementary joining components such as an adhesive on one surface for interfacing with an interrupted surface which would not be associated for use with an adhesive.
It is noted that the illustrations are not to scale. Typically the adhesive 28b is applied to be generally thinner than the decorative covering 14b and the anchor sheet 12b, but these features have been enlarged for ease of visualization.
Unconventionally, the interrupted surface 24b may have one or more protrusions of similar height that come into contact and form an interrupted adhesive bond with the contact surface 26b, with the aid of the adhesive 28b. The interrupted surface 24b, whether provided on the anchor sheet 12b or the decorative covering 14b, may be designed to fully support the decorative covering 14b and any expected weight on top of the decorative covering 14b, such that the decorative covering 14b remains flat and supported on the anchor sheet 12b, for example without any dimpling or collapse between the one or more protrusions on the interrupted surface 24b.
In the example embodiment shown, the interrupted surface 24b is provided on the covering-receiving face 16b of the anchor sheet 12b, and the contact surface 26b is provided on the back face 22b of the decorative covering 14b, although in other example embodiments, the configuration may be vice versa. Similarly, in this example embodiment, the adhesive 28b is shown as being provided on the decorative cover 14b, but may alternatively be provided on the anchor sheet 12b. The contact surface 26b may be a conventional back surface of the decorative covering 14b. In the example embodiment of
In some examples, the protrusions may be designed to be additionally suitable for a hook and loop joining system when used with a complementary surface having a plurality of loops (e.g., the decorative covering 14 of
Because the adhesive bond between the decorative covering 14b and the anchor sheet 12b is interrupted rather than continuous, it may be relatively easy to separate the decorative covering 14b from the anchor sheet 12b, for example by manually peeling off the decorative covering 14b from the anchor sheet 12b, without the use of additional equipment or heating, although in some example embodiments, equipment may be used, such as for applying heat to the interrupted adhesive bond.
The spacer 32b may be integrally formed with the anchor sheet 12b or the decorative covering 14b, or may be a separate piece attachable to the anchor sheet 12b, for example by an adhesive bond. Although the spacer 32b is described here as a separate component, the spacer 32b may be formed as an integral part of the interrupted surface 24b (or even the decorative covering), and may be considered as part of the one or more protrusions of the interrupted surface 24b. Where the spacer 32b is a separate component, the interrupted surface 24b, in this example being provided on the anchor sheet 12b, may comprise a region 35b permitting location of the spacer 32b. For example, the region 35 may be free of any protrusions, to allow for detachable attachment of the spacer 32b. In some example embodiments, the spacer 32b may be provided in an intermittent manner such as in a few discrete locations near or at one or more peripheral edges 38b, or only near or at the corners of the decorative covering 14b.
For example, the joining region 34b of the decorative covering 14b may comprise the contact surface, and the joining region 36b of the anchor sheet 12b may comprise the interrupted surface 24b. In an example embodiment, during installation, the attachment of multiple covering modules 10b together is done by overlapping the joining regions 34b and 36b of each covering module 10b with the complementary joining regions 34b and 36b of adjacent covering modules 10b as shown in
The interrupted surface 24b on the anchor sheet 12b may be integrally formed with the substrate 15b or the interrupted surface 24b may be otherwise attached to the anchor sheet 12b. Accordingly, the interrupted surface 24b may be molded together as one piece with the substrate 15b. The interrupted surface 24b may be provided in any suitable shape, size and configuration that will form, with the contact surface and the adhesive 28b, an interrupted adhesive bond having suitable adhesive strength. The protrusions 40b may have a height in the range of about 0.01 mm to about 1 cm, or the range of about 0.025 mm to about 1 mm, which may vary depending on the suitability and the specific application.
The interrupted surface 24b may be designed to have a certain configuration of one or more protrusions, in order to provide an interrupted adhesive bond with a selected bond density (e.g., percentage of the area of the total contact interface actually forming an adhesive bond) for a suitable bond strength between the anchor sheet 12b and the decorative covering 14b. For example, the interrupted surface 24b may be designed to provide a bond strength selected based on a necessary peel force required to detach the decorative covering 14b from the anchor sheet 12b. For a given contact surface 26b and a given adhesive, an interrupted surface 24b providing a higher bond density, for example by having a higher proportion of surface area having protrusions (e.g., which may be achieved by having a higher density of protrusions), typically provides a higher bond strength between the anchor sheet 12b and the decorative covering 14b than another interrupted surface 24b providing a lower bond density, for example by having a lower proportion of surface area having protrusions (e.g., having a lower density of protrusions).
For example, the interrupted surface 24b may be designed to have a proportion of surface area having protrusions in the range of about 0.01% to about 50%, or about 0.04% to about 5%. For example, where the interrupted surface 24b comprises a plurality of protrusions, the protrusions may have a density in the range of about 50 to about 2000 protrusions per square inch. In some examples, the protrusions have a density in the range of about 200 to about 1600 protrusions per square inch. Where the density of protrusions is higher (e.g., in the range of about 1000 to about 2000 protrusions per square inch), the protrusions may be referred to as micro-protrusions. In some examples, the protrusions have a density in the range of about 100 to about 250 protrusions per square inch. Alternatively, for a given interrupted surface 24b, the contact surface 26b or the adhesive 28b may be designed to provide a selected bond strength, for example by using a stronger or weaker adhesive or by using a material for the contact surface 26b or the interrupted surface 24b that is more or less receptive to the adhesive 28b, or by designing an interrupted surface 24b that is less receptive to the adhesive 28b (e.g., by decreasing the proportion of surface area having protrusions or by changing the shape of the protrusions).
Example embodiments of the anchor sheet 12b showing different example embodiments of the interrupted surface 24b are shown in
In the example shown in
In the example embodiment shown in
In the example embodiment shown in
In the example embodiment shown in
In the example embodiment shown in
In some examples, the interrupted surface 24b may be designed to minimize moisture seepage. In particular, the interrupted surface 24b comprising rows or grooves, or where the spaces between protrusions are isolated or not interconnected may be useful to minimize moisture seepage. By isolating the spaces between protrusions, any moisture that seeps in between the anchor sheet 12b and the decorative covering 14b is retained within an isolated space and cannot seep into other spaces.
An advantage of the covering module 10b having the interrupted adhesive bond, rather than a continuous adhesive bond (e.g., an adhesive bond formed between two smooth surfaces) is the ease of detachment of the decorative covering 14b from the anchor sheet 12b, because the adhesive bond is interrupted in the contact interface, while maintaining the inhibition of any lateral movement between the decorative covering 14b and the anchor sheet 12b through the strength of the adhesive bond.
Another advantage provided by the covering module 10b having the interrupted adhesive bond is that the decorative covering 14b can easily be removed and replaced with a new decorative covering 14b for reasons such as if it becomes damaged. Once installed, the decorative covering 14b may be removed independently from the anchor sheet 12b and replaced, or an entire covering module 10b may be removed altogether if it needs to be moved and installed at a different location. This provides the option of uninstalling a covering module 10b without damaging it and reusing it at a different location if desired. Depending on the strength of the adhesive bond, which may depend on the type of adhesive that is used and the configuration of the interrupted surface 24b, the covering module 10b, or only the decorative covering 14b, may be uninstalled without the use of tools. Alternatively, in other cases, it may be necessary to apply heat to the area in question in order to loosen the adhesive during removal or to re-activate its adhesive properties during installation. Care should be taken so as to reduce contamination of the adhesive from dust or other materials during installation. Where the adhesive is provided on the decorative covering 14b (e.g., on the contact surface 26b provided on the back face 22b of the decorative covering 14b) a replacement decorative covering 14b could be provided with a replacement adhesive, thus ensuring that there is a full-strength interrupted adhesive bond formed. The covering module 10b also reduces concern regarding the condition of the surface or subsurface over which it is being applied (e.g., presence of any moisture), since the decorative covering 14b is not being applied directly to the surface or subsurface.
According to the exemplary embodiment shown in the figures, the contact interface may comprise a compartmentalized surface 24c, a contact surface 26c, and an adhesive 28c. This counter-intuitive arrangement is different than traditional arrangements which may include an adhesive on one surface which is complimented by another adhesive on the other surface (or by a generally smooth surface for receiving the adhesive). The present embodiment includes non-complementary joining components such as an adhesive on one surface for interfacing with an uneven or interrupted surface (i.e., having compartments) which would not be associated for use with an adhesive.
It is noted that the illustrations are not to scale. Typically the adhesive 28c is applied to be generally thinner than the decorative covering 14c and the anchor sheet 12c, but these features have been enlarged for ease of visualization. Similarly, the compartments of the compartmentalized surface 24c typically are relatively small compared to the dimensions of the decorative covering 14c and the anchor sheet 12c and may even be undetectable by touch and/or the naked eye.
Unconventionally, the compartmentalized surface 24c may have or define one or more recessions, voids, or compartments, separate from each other, such that only the remaining portion of the compartmentalized surface 24c comes into contact with and forms an adhesive bond with the contact surface 26c, with the aid of the adhesive 28c. The compartmentalized surface 24c, whether provided on the anchor sheet 12c or the decorative covering 14c, may be designed to fully support the decorative covering 14c and any expected weight on top of the decorative covering 14c, such that the decorative covering 14c remains flat and supported on the anchor sheet 12c, for example without any dimpling or collapse in the one or more voids on the compartmentalized surface 24c. In some examples, the voids on or defined by the compartmentalized surface 24c may extend through the thickness of the anchor sheet 12c, or be presented on either side thereof, forming apertures through the anchor sheet 12c. In some examples, the compartmentalized surface 24c may be referred to as having a honeycomb surface, a waffled surface, a grill surface, or having reservoirs, dimples, or wells, or other such features and variations thereof.
In the example embodiment shown, the compartmentalized surface 24c is provided on the covering-receiving face 16c of the anchor sheet 12c, and the contact surface 26c is provided on the back face 22c of the decorative covering 14c, although in other example embodiments, the configuration may be vice versa. Similarly, in this example embodiment, the adhesive 28c is shown as being provided on the decorative cover 14c, but may alternatively be provided on the anchor sheet 12c. The contact surface 26c may be a conventional back surface of the decorative covering 14c. In the example embodiment of
In some examples, the compartmentalized surface 24c may comprise portions of a surface with voids interspersed with protrusions designed to be suitable for a hook and loop joining system when used with a complementary surface having a plurality of loops. The protrusions may have a height similar to the height of the surface with voids, such that the decorative covering 14c is evenly supported. For example, the protrusions may comprise hooks (e.g., in a “mushroom” type configuration) suitable for a hook and loop joining system. In another example, the protrusions may comprise uncoined hooks (e.g., just stems without the “mushroom” type heads). Such an arrangement, including both voids and protrusions, may allow the covering module 10c be compatible with both loop-backed decorative coverings and adhesive-backed coverings. In fact, hybrid decorative coverings having both loops and adhesive may conveniently be used.
Because of the presence of voids in the compartmentalized surface 24c, the adhesive bond between the decorative covering 14c and the anchor sheet 12c may be interrupted rather than continuous. This may allow it to be relatively easy to separate the decorative covering 14c from the anchor sheet 12c, for example by manually peeling off the decorative covering 14c from the anchor sheet 12c, without the use of additional equipment or heating, although in some example embodiments, equipment may be used, such as for applying heat to the adhesive bond.
Similarly, the joining region 36c of the anchor sheet 12c may be formed by exposing the covering-receiving face 16c of a portion of the anchor sheet 12c extending beyond a periphery of the decorative covering 14c. The joining region 34c of the decorative covering 14c and the joining region 36c of the anchor sheet 12c each comprise a cooperative component of the contact interface. For example, the joining region 34c of the decorative covering 14c may comprise the contact surface, and the joining region 36c of the anchor sheet 12c may comprise the compartmentalized surface 24c. In an example embodiment, during installation, the attachment of multiple covering modules 10c together is done by overlapping the joining regions 34c and 36c of each covering module 10c with the complementary joining regions 34c and 36c of adjacent covering modules 10c as shown in
The compartmentalized surface 24c may be useful for impeding seepage of liquids between the decorative covering 14c and the anchor sheet 12c. For example, in the arrangement of
The compartmentalized surface 24c on the anchor sheet 12c may be integrally formed with the substrate 15c or the compartmentalized surface 24c may be otherwise attached to the anchor sheet 12c. Accordingly, the compartmentalized surface 24c may be molded together as one piece with the substrate 15c, or the compartmentalized surface 24c may be carved or etched out from the substrate 15c. The compartmentalized surface 24c may be provided in any suitable shape, size and configuration that will form separate voids and create, with the contact surface and the adhesive 28c, an interrupted adhesive bond having suitable adhesive strength. The compartmentalized surface 24c may be designed to have a certain configuration of one or more voids, in order to provide an adhesive bond (in particular, an interrupted adhesive bond) with a selected bond density (e.g., percentage of the area of the total contact interface actually forming an adhesive bond) for a suitable bond strength between the anchor sheet 12c and the decorative covering 14c.
For example, the compartmentalized surface 24c may be designed to provide a bond strength selected based on a necessary peel force required to detach the decorative covering 14c from the anchor sheet 12c. For a given contact surface 26c and a given adhesive, an compartmentalized surface 24c providing a higher bond density, for example by having a higher proportion of non-recessed surface area (e.g., which may be achieved by having a lower density of voids), typically provides a higher bond strength between the anchor sheet 12c and the decorative covering 14c than another compartmentalized surface 24c providing a lower bond density, for example by having a lower proportion of non-recessed surface area (e.g., having a higher density of voids). For example, the compartmentalized surface 24c may be designed to have a proportion of surface area having voids in the range of about 0.01% to about 50%, or about 0.04% to about 5%. In some examples, the compartmentalized surface 24 may include a relatively high density of relatively small voids, forming a pattern that may be referred to as a “microgrid”. The voids may have a depth in the range of about 0.01 mm to about 1 cm, or the range of about 0.025 mm to about 1 mm, which may be dependent on the thickness of the anchor sheet, and may vary based on the suitability and application.
In some examples, for a given compartmentalized surface 24c, the contact surface 26c or the adhesive 28c may be designed to provide a selected bond strength, for example by using a stronger or weaker adhesive or by using a material for the contact surface 26c or the compartmentalized surface 24c that is more or less receptive to the adhesive 28c, or by designing an compartmentalized surface 24c that is less receptive to the adhesive 28c (e.g., by increasing the proportion of surface area having voids).
Example embodiments of the anchor sheet 12c showing different example embodiments of the compartmentalized surface 24c are shown in
In the example embodiment shown in
In the example embodiment shown in
In the example embodiment shown in
In the example embodiment shown in
In the example embodiment shown in
In some examples, where an adhesive bond is used, the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c may be used with a temporary covering. The temporary covering disclosed herein may be useful for assisting in attaching a decorative covering on a substrate by allowing for alignment and/or positioning of the decorative covering on the substrate while preventing an adhesive bond from forming between the decorative covering and the substrate while the decorative covering is being moved into the desired position.
The temporary covering may be a temporary layer that is placed between the decorative covering and the substrate at least for a period of time, preventing an adhesive layer from creating an adhesive bond between the decorative covering and the substrate, thus allowing for positioning of the decorative covering. The temporary covering is not receptive to the adhesive layer, thus it is removable, without damage to the decorative covering and/or the substrate, from between the decorative covering and the substrate once the decorative covering is in place.
In use, the temporary covering 13d may be placed between the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c and the substrate 12d, preventing or interfering with formation of an adhesive bond between the covering module and the substrate. The decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c may then be moved or aligned into position over the temporary covering 13d. Once the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c has been moved into the desired position, the temporary covering 13d may be removed (e.g., slipped out from under the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c) while keeping the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c in the desired position. Once the temporary covering 13d is removed, an adhesive bond is allowed to form between the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c and the substrate 12d (e.g., by applying pressure to the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c or by the weight of the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c on the substrate 12d).
Depending on the configuration of the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c and the substrate 12d, the temporary covering 13d may be placed: between the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c and the adhesive layer 11d (e.g., where the adhesive layer 11d is provided on a covering-receiving side of the substrate 12d); or between the adhesive layer 11d and the substrate 12d (e.g., where the adhesive layer 11d is provided on a substrate-facing side of the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c).
In some examples, an adhesive bond is not provided directly between the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c or the substrate 12d, but is formed indirectly via an intermediate layer between the covering module and the substrate. Although referred to in the singular, the intermediate layer may be a single layer or may include multiple layers. Where the intermediate layer comprises multiple layers, one or more of the multiple layers may be attached to each other (e.g., either permanently or detachably attached) in an attached assembly or may be free-floating from each other in a loose assembly.
For example, as shown in
Thus, although the description generally describes the formation of an adhesive bond between the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c and the substrate 12d, it should be understood that the adhesive bond may be formed directly between the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c and the substrate 12d, or indirectly by way of an intermediate layer 15d. The intermediate layer 15d may be an anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c. For example, where the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c forms an adhesive bond with the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c, the temporary covering 13d may be placed between the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c and the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c to allow positioning of the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c.
In some examples, the anchor layer 14d may comprise anchor sheets or plates that are placed on the substrate 12d in a free-floating manner. Alternatively, in some examples where the anchor layer 14d comprises hook plates, the anchor layer 14d may then be secured through the use of fasteners such as screws which are drilled through the hook plates to reinforce against heavy rolling stock. The anchor layer 14d may comprise hooks for receiving the adhesive layer 11d (e.g., where the adhesive layer 11d is provided on a loop layer 16d) or a covering. In some examples, the adhesive layer 11d may be a pressure sensitive adhesive (e.g., factory applied) provided on a loop layer (e.g., a loop textile) on a side opposing the loops. The adhesive may be provided with a protective liner to avoid damaging the adhesive prior to use. The loop side is applied against the hook side of the anchor layer 14d, forming a detachable hook and loop attachment. The adhesive layer 11d, loop layer 16d and the anchor layer 14d together may thus form the intermediate layer 15d. The protective liner of may be removed from the adhesive layer 11d, exposing the adhesive. One or more decorative coverings 14, 14b, 14c may then be placed over the intermediate layer 15d, with the use of the temporary covering 13d as described here to assist in positioning of the decorative coverings 14, 14b, 14c.
In some examples, the intermediate layer 15d may include only the anchor layer 14d and the adhesive layer 11d is provided on the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c. In some examples, the adhesive layer 11d could alternatively or additionally be provided on the anchor layer 14d. Thus, the adhesive bond between the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c and the substrate 12d may be formed indirectly by way of the anchor layer 14d. In this case, the temporary covering 13d may be placed between the anchor layer 14d and the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c to allow for positioning of the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c.
The decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c may be of any suitable size, for example ranging from about 12 inches by 12 inches to about 12 feet by 20 feet. The decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c may be of any geometry or have a random shape.
The adhesive layer 11d may comprise any suitable adhesive, including, for example, pressure sensitive adhesives or liquid adhesives. Where the adhesive layer 11d comprises a liquid adhesive, the liquid adhesive may be allowed to partially dry or set (i.e., to “tackify”) before installation of the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c.
A function of the temporary covering 13d is to prevent pre-mature attachment of a decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c until such time that proper alignment of the covering 14, 14b, 14c (e.g., to an adjacent covering 14, 14b, 14c as shown in
A feature of the temporary covering 13d is that it is relatively non-receptive to or has decreased compatibility with the adhesive layer 11d to the extent that the temporary covering 13d may be readily removed at such time when the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c has been placed in the desired position (e.g., adjacent to another module or a wall).
In some examples, the temporary covering 13d may comprise a material that is relatively non-receptive to the adhesive layer 11d. In some examples, the temporary covering 13d may be a film or sheet material of an individual or collective size which roughly corresponds to the size of the covering module. In some examples, the film or sheet of the temporary covering 13d may include materials such as polyethylene, polypropylene, or any other material that is suitably non-receptive or incompatible with the adhesive layer 11d In some examples, certain materials, such as paper, aluminum, or polycarbonate, which on their own may be receptive to the adhesive layer 11d and therefore unsuitable for use as a temporary covering 13d, may be treated with non-receptive or incompatible coatings such as Teflon, silicone, etc. By the addition of these coatings the otherwise unsuitable material may become sufficiently non-receptive to be used for the temporary covering 13d.
In some examples, the temporary covering 13d may have an interrupted surface (e.g., as shown in
In some examples, the temporary covering 13d may be non-receptive to the adhesive layer 11d on both faces, for example where the temporary covering 13d is to be used between two adhesive layers 11d. Examples may be where there is an adhesive layer 11d on both the substrate 12d and the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c (as shown in
The intermediate layer 15d may be the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c and the temporary covering 13d may be used between the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c and the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c.
In some examples, the temporary covering 13d may be similar or identical to the anchor sheet 12b, 12c and may have an interrupted surface 24b and/or a compartmentalized surface 24c similar to the anchor sheet 12b, 12c.
In some examples (not shown), the temporary covering 13d may comprise a woven sheet or film, or other suitable textile material. The woven sheet or film may provide a textured or rough surface for the temporary covering 13d. Alternatively or in addition, the woven sheet or film may provide apertures or openings through the thickness of the temporary covering 13d. Such openings may be sufficiently small to prevent the formation of an adhesive bond between the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c and the substrate 12d while the temporary covering 13d is placed between the two.
In some examples, the thickness of the temporary covering 13d may be in the range of about 0.008″ to about 0.080″. In some examples, the temporary covering 13d may be approximately the same size as the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c, although in some examples the temporary covering 13d may be larger than the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c to facilitate removal of the temporary covering 13d from between the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c and the substrate 12d.
The substrate 12d is shown at 41. Although the substrate 12d is shown bare, the substrate 12d may also already have one or more decorative coverings 14, 14b, 14c already attached.
At 42, the temporary covering 13d is placed on the substrate.
At 44, the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c is placed on the temporary covering 13d. Thus, the temporary covering 13 is provided between the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c and the substrate 12, preventing the formation of an adhesive bond between the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c and the substrate 12.
At 46, the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c is moved into a desired position.
At 48, the temporary covering 13d is removed from between the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c and the substrate 12d, allowing the formation of an adhesive bond between the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c and the substrate 12d. Here, the temporary covering 13d is shown partially removed.
At 50, the temporary covering 13d is fully removed and the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c is fully attached to the substrate 12d in the desired position by way of an adhesive bond.
Some of the embodiments described herein may permit the adhesion of a decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c to a pre-determined manufactured surface. This arrangement may help eliminate or reduce difficulties associated with installation onto existing surfaces, such as concrete, which may detrimentally permit moisture to affect the adhesion and/or the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c itself. Although the above example describes the positioning of a decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c over a substrate 12d, it should be understood that in some examples, the temporary covering 13d may be used to assist in positioning of a decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c over an anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c.
In some examples, the temporary covering 13d may be used to assist in positioning other components of the covering module 10, 10b, 10c. For example, the temporary covering 13d may be useful for positioning the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c on the surface or substrate 12d where the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c is attached to the surface with an adhesive bond.
In general, the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c and the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c may be of a four sided shape such as square or rectangular. Accordingly, a joining region 34, 34b, 34c may be provided on two adjacent sides of the covering module 10, 10b, 10c, 10d and a joining region 36, 36b, 36c may be provided on the other two adjacent sides of the covering module 10, 10b, 10c, 10d. Alternatively, a joining region 34, 34b, 34c may be provided on one peripheral side of the covering module 10, 10b, 10c, 10d and a joining region 36, 36b, 36c may be provided on a different peripheral side of the covering module 10, 10b, 10c, 10d. In a further embodiment, a portion of joining region 34, 34b, 34c and a portion of joining region 36, 36b, 36c could be disposed on a same peripheral side of the covering module 10, 10b, 10c, 10d. In some example embodiments, the covering module 10, 10b, 10c, 10d has only the joining region 34, 34b, 34c or only the joining region 36, 36b, 36c , and is designed to be attached to an adjacent covering module 10, 10b, 10c, 10d having the complementary respective joining region 36, 36b, 36c or joining region 34, 34b, 34c.
The decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c and the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c may also be of other geometric shapes having more or less than four sides so long as neighboring covering modules 10, 10b, 10c, 10d may be fitted together in an interlocking manner (or in a “jigsaw” type manner). In a further example embodiment, a portion of joining region 34b and a portion of joining region 36b could be disposed on a same side of the covering module 10b, for example as illustrated by
The covering module 10, 10b, 10c may be attached to an adjacent module 10, 10b, 10c using a detachable bond (e.g., detachable adhesive bond, hook and loop joining system or other detachable mechanical joining system) or a permanent bond (e.g., permanent adhesive bond or permanent mechanical joining system) at the joining regions 34, 34b, 34c, 36, 36b, 36c.
The anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c and/or the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c may be made of any suitable material, rigid or flexible. In some examples, the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c and/or the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c may be made of a rollable material, such as vinyl. Suitable rigid or flexible materials for the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c may include, for example, vinyl, luxury vinyl, linoleum, carpet, parquet, tile, wood ceramics, vinyl composition tile (VCT), stone, luxury vinyl tile (LVT), rubber, or any other suitable covering material. The anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c may be made of similar materials.
In some examples, the covering module 10, 10b, 10c may be installed in a one-step fashion or in a two-step fashion. In the one-step fashion, the covering module 10, 10b, 10c is provided with the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c and the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c already attached (e.g., detachably pre-attached or permanently attached) and is installed on the surface in one piece. Subsequent adjacent covering modules 10, 10b, 10c may be similarly installed in one piece, with overlapping joining regions. In the two-step fashion, the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c is first installed on the surface and the separately provided decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c is secondly applied over the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c.
In some examples, the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c and the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c may be of same or similar dimensions, which may allow the installation of anchor sheets 12, 12b, 12c and decorative coverings 14, 14b, 14c in a tiled manner. This may be useful, for example, where the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c is pre-attached, permanently attached or integral to the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c. In such an example, covering modules 10, 10b, 10c may be installed by placing them down in a one-step fashion, with overlapped joining regions.
Alternatively, anchor sheets 12, 12b, 12c may be first placed on the surface (e.g., in a tiled fashion) and decorative coverings 14, 14b, 14c may then be placed in a tiled fashion over the anchor sheets 12, 12b, 12c, in a two-step fashion.
In some examples, the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c and the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c may have substantially different dimensions. For example, the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c may be provided as tiles (e.g., 12″×12″ in size) and the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c may be provided in a much larger size (e.g., a 6′ wide roll). The anchor sheets 12, 12b, 12c may be placed on the surface in a tiled fashion and the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c may be unrolled over the anchor sheets 12, 12b, 12c. Alternatively, the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c may be provided as tiles (e.g., 12″×12″ in size) and the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c may be provided in a much larger size (e.g., a 6′ wide roll). The anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c may be unrolled over the surface and the decorative coverings 14, 14b, 14c may be placed over the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c in a tiled fashion. Alternatively, both the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c and the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c may be provided as a roll. Other such combination of sizes may be possible. This may be useful where a roll-suitable material is used for the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c and/or the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c.
The anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c may be attached to the underlying subsurface, such as a floor or wall, or it may be free-floating on a floor within the boundaries of a room or even on its own where one or more anchor sheets 12, 12b, 12c and one or more decorative coverings 14, 14b, 14c together have sufficient mass and rigidity, or, are installed to prevent movement. The anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c and decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c should in combination have sufficient rigidity to support the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c from horizontal shear force applied to the covering modules 10, 10b, 10c when the covering modules 10, 10b, 10c are laid onto a rigid supporting subsurface. In some cases, the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c may be attached to the underlying subsurface, at a number of discrete points, for example where the covering module 10, 10b, 10c is used on a wall, a floor or other such surface.
In some examples, the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c may be attached to the underlying surface either detachably (e.g., with screws) or permanently (e.g., with an adhesive). Where the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c is permanently attached to the surface, such an attachment may be useful for reducing unwanted echoing or noise when a load (e.g., a person's footsteps) is placed over the covering module 10, 10b, 10c. Although the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c may be permanently attached to the surface, the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c may still be detachably attached to the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c, thus allowing for the ability to change the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c without having to remove the entire covering module 10, 10b, 10c including the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c.
The anchor sheets 12, 12b, 12c may substantially cover the entire underlying subsurface under which the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c are installed. The anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c may be fabricated from a material that has a suitable resistance to moisture. For example, the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c may be fabricated from an aluminum-based material, a thermoplastic polymer such as polypropylene or other suitable materials. With a thermoplastic polymer, the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c could be fabricated using an injection molding process. The anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c should have a configuration and thickness so as to provide sufficient rigidity. Depending on the material selected for the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c, the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c may have a thickness of around 1 mm (0.04 inch) to around 2.4 mm ( 3/32 inch) or more. However, the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c should also maintain a certain level of flexibility to enable the anchor sheet to “ride” over small imperfections and yet conform to the underlying subsurface.
In order to facilitate installation, the covering module 10, 10b, 10c may be provided in a ready-to-install configuration where the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c and the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c are pre-attached together. As described above, the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c and the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c may alternatively be integral to each other or provided permanently attached to each other. The covering module 10, 10b, 10c may also be provided with a protective cover 40 (for example as shown in
While the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c may be a relatively flexible material, it is understood that the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c may also comprise a relatively rigid material. In a flooring application for example, the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c could comprise a floor covering including vinyl, luxury vinyl, linoleum, carpet, parquet, tile, wood ceramics, vinyl composition tile (VCT) or any other suitable flexible or rigid flooring surfaces. For some materials, such as VCT, the covering module 10, 10b, 10c may be more susceptible to seepage of liquids between adjacent covering modules 10, 10b, 10c, and the separate voids provided in the compartmentalized surface 24c and/or the spacing in the interrupted surface 24b may be useful to contain such seepage, as described above.
Where the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c is detachable from the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c, the replacement of the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c from the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c may be more easily performed and may require less effort when the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c is relatively flexible. For example, a flexible decorative covering such as vinyl may be progressively peeled from the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c and require less force in comparison with a rigid material that would have to be pulled away from the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c. Where the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c includes loops 26 for a hook and loop joining system, the loops 26 may be secured to the back face 22, 22b, 22c of the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c using a suitable glue or securing methods known in the art.
Where an adhesive bond is used to join adjacent modules 10, 10b, 10c and/or to join the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c and the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c, the contact surface 26b, 26c (whether provided on the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c, the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c or both) may have properties allowing it to be released from the adhesive bond and reused. Similarly, the adhesive 28, 28b, 28c may have properties allowing it to be released from the hooks 24, interrupted surface 24b, and/or compartmentalized surface 24c, such that the adhesive 28, 28b, 28c remains on the contact surface 26b, 26c when the adhesive bond is released. The adhesive 28, 28b, 28c may be a pressure-sensitive adhesive.
In an example embodiment, the adhesive 28, 28b, 28c is applied uniformly and continuously over the area of the back face 22, 22b, 22c of the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c. In other example embodiments, the adhesive 28, 28b, 28c may be provided in an intermittent or interrupted manner, for example in order to match the protruding portions of the interrupted surface 24b or the non-recessed portions of the compartmentalized surface 24c. In an example embodiment, the contact surface 26b, 26c is substantially smooth and covers the entire area of the back face 22, 22b, 22c of the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c. In some examples, the contact surface 26b, 26c is uneven. In some example embodiments, the contact surface 26b, 26c may be provided only on portions of the back face 22, 22b, 22c of the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c, such as where the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c is designed to form an adhesive bond only at portions of its back face 22, 22b, 22c. For example, the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c c may be designed to accommodate both adhesive-based joining systems and hook and loop joining systems, such that portions of its back face 22, 22b, 22c has the contact surface 26b, 26c for forming an adhesive bond and other portions of its back face 22, 22b, 22c has loops 26 for a hook and loop joining system.
The hooks 24, interrupted surface 24b or compartmentalized surface 24c and the respective loops 26, or contact surface 26b, 26c, in some example embodiments, are provided separately on the covering-receiving face 16, 16b, 16c of the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c and the back face 22, 22b, 22c of the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c respectively, or vice versa.
Where used, the adhesive 28, 28b, 28c may be provided in any suitable manner. In some example embodiments, the adhesive 28, 28b, 28c, such as a pressure sensitive adhesive, is provided on the contact surface 26b, 26c. For example, the adhesive 28, 28b, 28c may be provided in the form of a suitable double-sided adhesive tape applied to the contact surface 26b, 26c or may be an adhesive that is applied in liquid form. In another example embodiment, the adhesive 28, 28b, 28c may comprise two complementary components where a first component is applied to the contact surface 26b, 26c and a second component is applied to the interrupted surface 24b or the compartmentalized surface 24c. In another example embodiment, the adhesive 28, 28b, 28c may be applied only to the interrupted surface 24b or the compartmentalized surface 24c, so that the contact surface 26b, 26c is provided with no adhesive.
The adhesive 28, 28b, 28c may be selected so that it provides a sufficient bond and shear strength between the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c and the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c. Advantageously, the adhesive 28, 28b, 28c could also be selected so that it is reusable a number of times and that the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c can be detached from the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c and replaced with a new decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c even after a long time duration, such as several years, after the initial installation. The adhesive 28, 28b, 28c may also be selected to have a resistance or impermeability to moisture.
Although protrusions 40c on the surface-contacting side of the anchor sheet 12c has been described with reference to one example embodiment of the anchor sheet 12c, it should be understood that protrusions 40c may be provided on the surface-contact side of any embodiment of the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c. The protrusions 40c may be configured (e.g., having a certain density, thickness, height and/or material) to support any expected weight over the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c and to avoid crushing of the protrusions 40c.
Similarly any protrusions on the covering-receiving side of the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c, including hooks 24, protrusions of the interrupted surface 24b, and non-recessed portions of the compartmentalized surface 24c, may be configured (e.g., having a certain density, thickness, height and/or material) to support any expected weight over the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c and to avoid crushing.
In some examples, any protrusions on the covering-receiving side of the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c (e.g., hooks 24, protrusions of the interrupted surface 24b, or non-recessed portions of the compartmentalized surface 24c) may be suitable both for forming an adhesive bond and for forming a mechanical bond (e.g., using a hook and loop joining system, a hook and hook joining system, or an interlocking joining system) with the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c. Similarly, any protrusions on the anchor sheet-contacting side of the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c may be suitable both for forming an adhesive bond and for forming a mechanical bond with the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c. For example, the protrusions may be hook- or mushroom-shaped, which would be suitable for forming an adhesive bond as well as for forming a hook and loop or hook and hook bond. The versatility of either forming an adhesive bond or a mechanical bond may allow for adaptability of the covering module 10, 10b, 10c. For example, while a mechanical bond may be more easily separable, an adhesive bond may provide greater support and prevent dimpling when a load is applied to the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c. This versatility may also allow the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c to be used with a large variety of decorative coverings 14, 14b, 14c having different joining components.
In some examples, a hook and hook joining system may provide for a stronger bond than a hook and loop joining system. A stronger bond may be useful where the covering module 10, 10b, 10c is applied to a wall or ceiling substrate, or is otherwise expected to support a handing load.
In some examples, recessions or apertures in the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c (e.g., as in the case of a compartmentalized surface 24c) may be suitable as the female component of a male/female or interlocking mechanical bond. In such embodiments, the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c may be provided with the matching male component on the anchor sheet-contacting side. Similarly, protrusions in the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c (e.g., as in the case of an interrupted surface 24b) may be suitable as the male component of a male/female or interlocking mechanical bond. In such embodiments, the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c may be provided with the matching female component on the anchor-sheet contacting side. For example, the anchor sheet 12, 12b, 12c and the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c may be joined together with a “Lego”-like attachment.
Reference is now made to
For example, if the contact surface 26b, 26c is translated from position A to position B, new portions of the adhesive 28, 28b, 28c now are contacted by the contact footprint (former contact shown in dotted line). Similarly, if the contact surface 26b, 28c is rotated from position A to position C, new portions of the adhesive 28, 28b, 28c now are contacted by the contact footprint (former contact shown in dotted line). Combinations of translation and/or rotation may be used to engage new portions of the adhesive 28, 28b, 28c.
The spacer 32, 32b, 32c may facilitate an adhesive bond, such as a uniform or continuous adhesive bond, near or at the peripheral edge 38, 38b, 38c of the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c, which may be useful in reducing the likelihood of mold forming under the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c by inhibiting moisture from seeping under the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c, for example in the event of a spill. The spacer 32, 32b, 32c may also reduce or eliminate the occurrence of curling or lifting of the corners of the decorative covering 14, 14b, 14c. In a flooring application, this may allow the covering module 10, 10b, 10c to sustain heavier loads and may also allow the covering module 10, 10b, 10c to have an increased resistance to rolling loads.
Reference is now made to
While the foregoing disclosure have described certain examples and embodiments in some detail for purposes of clarity and understanding, it will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, that numerous modifications, variations, and adaptations may be made to the particular example embodiments described above without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In particular, selected features from one or more of the above-described embodiments may be combined to create alternative embodiments not explicitly described. All values and sub-ranges within disclosed ranges are also disclosed. Ranges are provided for the purpose of illustration only, and may be varied depending on suitability and application. The subject matter described herein intends to cover and embrace all suitable changes in technology. All references mentioned are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
| Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind | 371c Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/CA2010/000407 | 3/16/2010 | WO | 00 | 9/19/2011 |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 61161009 | Mar 2009 | US | |
| 61240797 | Sep 2009 | US | |
| 61301854 | Feb 2010 | US |
