Appeal 2007-0514
Application 10/394,641
Seaux describes an interlocking mat system comprising a plurality of
uniformly sized, rigid mats (col. 1, ll. 19-34; figs. 3, 4 and 10). Figures 3
and 4 show top plan and side views, respectively, of an individual mat 20
(col. 7, ll. 21-24). The mat comprises mirror-image upper 21 and lower 22
half-pieces which are mutually offset and affixed to each other, thereby
defining upper peripheral extensions 25a and 25b on two adjacent edges of
the mat and lower peripheral extensions 26a and 26b on the remaining two
adjacent edges (col. 8, ll. 16-28 and ll. 36-42; figs. 4 and 3, respectively).
The peripheral edges of the upper and lower half-pieces, 27 and 28,
respectively, are chamfered (i.e., beveled) at substantially the same angle
along the full extent of the half pieces (col. 8, ll. 28-31; fig. 4). When two
mats are placed together laterally, upper peripheral extension 25a of one mat
overlaps lower peripheral extension 26a of the other mat (col. 8, ll. 41-45).
Similarly, if the two mats are placed together longitudinally, upper
peripheral extension 25b of one mat overlaps lower peripheral extension 26b
of the other mat (col. 8, ll. 45-49). Joining a plurality of individual mats
together provides a generally continuous and smooth roadway or other
support surface (col. 10, ll. 1-5; fig. 10). According to Seaux, the
overlap/underlap relationship shared by the offset peripheral edges of
adjoining mats provides increased frictional contact between mats which
helps prevent separation of the mats (col. 10, ll. 1-10). Further according to
Seaux, in many applications, the frictional contact is enough to keep the
individual mats in contact with one another so that gaps will not develop
between the mats (col. 10, ll. 11-13). However, recessed slots may be
provided in the peripheral edges of the mats so that slots of adjoining mats
may be aligned and clamped together with pins (col. 10, ll. 13-29; fig. 10,
peg 90).
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