GB2330595A

GB2330595A - Floor panel having support and construction method therefor

Info

Publication number: GB2330595A
Application number: GB9901165A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Minoru Kanesaka; Kasuo Kumura; Mitsuo Ishii
Original assignee: Kyodo Ky Tec Corp
Current assignee: Kyodo Ky Tec Corp
Priority date: 1996-07-31
Filing date: 1997-07-14
Publication date: 1999-04-28
Anticipated expiration: 2017-07-14
Also published as: KR20000029708A; GB2330595B; GB9901165D0; TW387028B; WO1998004795A1; GB2330595A8; AU4687897A; HK1018296A1; KR100469928B1

Abstract

A floor panel having a support and a construction method therefor are such that a group of supports (14, 16) composed of main support portions (14) and auxiliary support portions (16) arrange respective columns in polygonal configuration with predetermined spacings therebetween, connections (22) having a predetermined width extend substantially radially to connect the respectively support portions to one another, connecting support portions (24) are provided on the connections extending outward from the support portions on one two-sided of the polygonal configuration, and connecting fit portions (26) are provided on the connections extending outward from the support portions on the other two-sided side of the polygonal configuration, whereby a floor panel (10) is constructed. A plurality of such floor panels (10) are joined and laid by fitting of the connecting support portions (24) and the connecting fit portions (26), whereby the respective main support portions (14) and auxiliary support portions (16) are arranged evenly with equal spacings therebetween by connections (22). Further, a plurality of panels (30) are successively laid on the respective support portions in such a manner as to be supported at corners a quater of an area each by the main support portions (14) and at centers by the auxiliary support portions (16, 24), so that a double floored construction is provided.

Description

1

SPECIFICATION

1 FLOOR PANEL INCLUDING SUPPORT PORTIONS AND METHOD OF LAYING THE SAME Field of the Art

The present invention relates to a floor panel including support portions and a method of laying the same. More particularly, the present invention is concerned with a modular floor constructed by removably connecting a plurality of such floor panels and laying unit panels on the floor panels. The modular floor may be arranged on the floor of a building in a double floor configuration in order to define spaces for accommodating electrical wirings, pipings, etc.

Back-ground Art Today, various kinds of office automation equipments are installed in offices and electrically connected by a number of diverse wirings laid on floors. A double floor panel is an implementation extensively used to deal with the increasing amount of wirings in offices.

Conventional double floor panels include one having channels for wirings, one having support legs formed integrally therewith, and one having removable support legs. Particularly, there is an increasing demand for a double floor panel light enough for any person to lay it on a floor, adapting itself even to the irregularity of 1 1 a floor, and shaking little. Also, a double floor panel with these features facilitates the renewal of the office environment.

A floor panel having channels for wiring is disclosed in, e.g., Japanese patent laid-open. publication No. 284854/1987. The floor panel taught in this document is implemented as a block made up of a molding of resin in the form of a sheet and a mass of concrete.

Because this kind of floor panel is resistive to loads and heavy, it is free from displacement and can be laid on a floor while abutting against another block. In addition, the sheet is flexible and can follow the irregularity of a floor. However, the block is a heavy composite body and needs channels, resulting in an Consequently, the work for work for conveying them to consuming.

a number of covers for covering the increase in the number of parts.

laying the blocks on a floor and t he and from a floor are time- and labor- A floor panel having support legs formed integrally therewith is taught in, e.g., Japanese utility model laid-open publication No. 16453711985 or Japanese patent laid-open publication No. 12436611992 or 2883411993.

This kind of floor panel has the support legs connected together at their connecting portions in a panel module configuration. Unit panels are laid on the support legs. However, the floor panel to be laid on a floor lacks a structure for connecting it to another floor panel, and therefore moves easily. Also, the unit 2 1 1 panels are implemented as steel sheets from the mechanical strength standpoint and therefore thick and heavy, again resulting in time- and labor-consuming execution. Moreover, the unit panels are often large size and cannot adapt themselves to the irregularity 5 of a floor although the support legs may absorb the irregularity. As a result, the unit panels shake every time a person walks on the floor.

In light of the above, unit panels may be rigidly connected to posts by fasteners or similar affixing members, as proposed in the past. However, this kind of scheme increases the number of parts, lacks in reliability as to the affixing force, and obstructs efficient execution.

Typical of structure for connecting unit panels is taught in Japanese utility model laid-open publication No. 8584511994 by way of example. In this structure, unit panels are connected together by an engaging structure entirely different from legs provided on the panels, and in addition the legs are spaced from each other by small gaps. This kind of scheme results in a complicated structure, makes it difficult for a person to connect and disconnect the unit panels, and prevents the unit panels from being efficiently laid on a floor. Further, because the legs are extremely closed to each other, the unit panels cannot accurately adapt themselves to the irregularity of a floor.

3 1 Japanese patent laid-open publication No. 32294711994, for example, proposes a connecting structure using rings and support portions to be received in the rings. The problem with thi s approach is that the rings must be bodily lifted above the support portions and then coupled over the rings. This kind of procedure is troublesome.

As stated above, none of the conventional technologies can implement a double floor panel having the various desirable features mentioned earlier.

DiscloSure of the Invention It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a floor panel including support portions and capable of adapting itself to the irregularity of a floor with a simple structure and thereby facilitating execution, and a method of laying the same.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a low cost, light weight floor panel including support portions and featuring sufficient resistance to loads and strength.

In accordance with the present invention, floor panel includes a group of support portions arranged in a substantially polygonal configuration, as seen in a plan view, a plurality of coupling portions arranged at at least one of two contiguous sides of the group of support portions, and each being substantially identical in configuration with the second support portions and having a 4 1 concave bottom, and a plurality of coupling portions arranged at at least one of other two contiguous sides of the group of support portions, and each having a convex portion complementary to the concave bottom of the coupling portion. The coupling portions of 5 one floor panel are coupled over the coupling portions of another floor panel from the above.

Also, in accordance with the present invention, a floor panel includes a group of support portions arranged in a substantially polygonal configuration, as seen in a plan view, arms connecting the plurality of support portions, and extending substantially radially with a preselected width to thereby locate the plurality of support portions at the substantially same distance, first coupling portions provided on the arms extending outward from the first support portions arranged at at least one of two contiguous sides of the support portions, second support portions provided on the arms extending out from the support portions arranged at at least one of the other two contiguous sides of the support portions. The first coupling portions of one floor panel and the second coupling portions of another floor panel are engaged with each other. The support portions are uniformly spaced by the substantially same distance by the arms.

Further, in accordance with the present invention, a method of constructing a floor panel includes a first step of preparing a floor panel comprising a group of support portions arranged in a substantially polygonal configuration, as seen in a plan view, arms 1 connecting the support portions and extending substantially radially with a preselected width to thereby locate the support portions at the substantially same distance, first coupling portions provided on the arms extending outward from at least one of the support portions arranged, at at least one of two contiguous sides of the support portions, second coupling portions provided on the arms extending out from the other of the support portions arranged at at least one of the other two contiguous sides of the support portions, the first coupling portions and the second coupling 10 portions being engageable with each other, a second step of coupling the first coupling portions and second coupling portions to thereby lay a plurality of floor panels, and a third step of laying a plurality of unit panels on the support portions such that the unit panel have corners and substantially centers thereof sustained by tops of the support portions, whereby a modular floor for a double floor structure is constructed.

Furthermore, in accordance with the present invention, a floor panel includes a group of support portions made up of a plurality of support portions, arms connecting the support portions and locating then support portions at the substantially same distance, unit panels laid on the tops of the support portions, and engaging portions for allowing the top of any one of the support portions and one corner portion of any one of the unit panels to be engaged with each other.

6 Moreover, in accordance with the present invention, a floor panel unit includes a plurality of support portions arranged in a plurality of arrays, arms connecting the support portions to each other, the support portions each including a plurality of incisions formed in at least one of the top, outer periphery and inner periphery and substantially serving as reference positions, whereby the first support portion is capable of being cut apart in the vertical direction.

In addition, in accordance with the present invention, a method of laying a floor panel, includes a first step of preparing a floor panel unit comprising a plurality of arrays of support portions, arms connecting the support portions to each other, the support portions each including a plurality of incisions formed in at least one of the top, outer periphery and inner periphery and substantially serving as reference positions so as to be capable of being cut apart in the vertical direction, and coupling portions provided on the arms extending out from the support portions, a second step of cutting apart the floor panel unit according to a preselected rule along the plurality of incisions to thereby form a plurality of divided floor panel units, and a third step of connecting the divided floor panel units via the coupling portions such that the coupling portions do not appear at outside of the support portions, whereby a coupled floor panel unit different from the floor panel unit is reconstructed.

Brief Description of the Drawings

7 1 FIG. 1A is a plan view showing the basic configuration of a floor panel in accordance with the present invention and including support portions; FIG. 1B is a section along line.111-113 shown in FIG. 1A; FIG. 2A is a plan, view showing a plurality of floor panels embodying the present invention and laid on a floor by a method particular to the present invention; FIG. 2B is a side elevation of the floor panels shown in FIG. 2A; FIGS. 3A-313 are enlarged fragmentary side elevations each showing a specific structure of a coupling portion included in the embodiment; FIG. 4 shows another specific configuration of the coupling portion; FIG. 5 shows how the floor panels included in the embodiment 15 are connected ta border members in the vicinity of walls; FIG. 6A is a plan view of a unit panel also included in the embodiment; FIG. 6B is a side elevation of the unit panel shown in FIG. 6A; FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view showing a specific 20 structure in which a first support portion and the unit panel are engaged with each other with the intermediary of a cushioning sheet; FIGS. 8A, 8B and 8C are sections along line VIII-VHI of FIG. 7 and each showing the structure of FIG. 7 held in a particular condition; 8 1 FIGS. 9A support portion the intermediary FIG. 10 is any one of the FIG. 11 A and 9B are sectional side elevations showing a and the unit panel engaged with each other with of another specific cushioning sheet; a sectional side elevation showing a modification of embodiments; is an enlarged perspective view showing the basic configuration of the first support portion included in any one of the embodiments, and FIG. 11B is a bottom view of the first support portion shown in FIG. 11A; FIGS. 12A and 12B each shows a modification of the first support portion of FIG. 11A both in a plan view and a side elevation; FIGS. 13A-13D are plan views each showing a particular method of cutting apart the floor panel of any one of the embodiments; and FIGS. 14A-14D are plan views respectively corresponding to FIGS. HA-13D, and showing reconstructed floor panels.

Best Mode for Practicing the Invention Embodiments of the floor panel including support portions in accordance with the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

One of various embodiments of the present invention relates to a structure in which a plurality of floor panels are connected together by vertical plug-in type projections and recesses. Another embodiment consists mainly of a group of support portions, connecting portions, support portions for connection, and coupling 9 1 portions for connection. Still another embodiment pertains to a structure based on the engagement of support portions and panels. A further embodiment relates to a procedure for laying panels, a structure for cutting support portions, and a method for practicing the same. Description of Basic and -General Configurations of Floor Panel and Panel

Referring to FIGS. IA and IB, the basic configuration of the floor panel in accordance with the present invention is shown. As shown, the floor panel, generally 10, includes a group of support portions made up of a plurality of main legs 14 and a plurality of auxiliary legs 16. Tie bars 18 and 22 connect the main and auxiliary legs 14 and 16, as illustrated, and each has a preselected width. The tie bars 18 and 22 extend substantially radially from the main legs 14 and position the legs 14 and 16 at substantially a preselected distance from each other. First connecting portions 24 are provided on the ends of the tie bars 22 extending out from the main legs 14 which adjoin at least one of two contiguous sides of the group of support portions. Likewise, second connecting portions 26 are provided on the ends of the tie bars 22 extending out from the main legs 14 which adjoin at least one of the other two contiguous sides of the group of support portions. Let the tie bars 22 be referred to as arms 22 in order to distinguish them from the other tie bars 18.

A plurality of unit panels 30 are laid on the floor panel 10 and supported by the tops of the main legs 14, auxiliary legs 16, and t h e 1 0 corners of the floor panel 10, constituting a modular floor overthe floor of a building, as will be described in detail later. Specifically, the floor panel 10 is sized about 400 mm to about 600 mm, square in conformity to the size of, e.g., a tile carpet customarily used as a floor finishing material. The tie bars 18 and arms 22 are continuously arranged in the form of letter X, as illustrated. The main legs 14 and auxiliary legs 16 are each located at the crossing point of letter X and spaced by a preselected distance from the adjacent legs. With this configuration, it is possible to stabilize the mechanical strength of the top of the floor panel 10.

The first connecting portions 24 are identical in configuration with the auxiliary legs 16, and each is implemented as a bottom open hollow member. The second connecting portions 26 are lower in height than the first connecting portions 24 and engageable with the portions 24 of another floor panel 10 in the up-and-down direction by, e.g., insertion. For example, the second connecting portions 24 are implemented as stubs over which the hollow first connecting portions 24 can be coupled. A plurality of 10 can be connected, positioned, and affixed surely and floor panels easily only if their first and second connecting portions 24 and 26 are engaged with each other. Such floor panels 10 constitute a modular floor on which the connecting portions 24 and continuous 26 are not conspicuous. Further, because the support portions 14, 16 and 24 are equally spaced from each other by the tie bars 18 and arms 22, the floor panel 10 can sufficiently follow the irregularity of the floor of a building.

1 1 The floor panel 10 should preferably be implemented as a single molding, typically a molding of noncombustible or inflammable resin, in order to facilitate design and production. The tie bars 18, arms 22 and connecting portions 24 and 26 are formed integrally with the floor panel 10 by a minimum amount of resin.

The unit panels 30 are implemented as thin steel sheets of identical shape so as to be shared by all the floor panels 10, and each is reinforced only by stamping and bending. The floor panel 10 and unit panels 30 are therefore light weight, low cost, and easy to convey and lay on the floor of a building.

The main legs 14 and auxiliary legs 16 each has a particular diameter. Each main leg 14 supports one corner of a single unit panel 30 over one-fourth of the area of its top 14a, i.e., supports the corners of four adjacent unit panels 30 on its top 14a. The auxiliary legs 16 each supports substantially the center of a single unit panel over the entire area of its top. However, while each main leg 14 constantly supports the corners of four unit panels 30 thereon, each auxiliary leg 16 sustains the associated unit panel 30 only when a load heavier than predetermined one acts on the unit panel 30.

The main legs 14 and auxiliary legs 16 are implemented as posts having a polygonal, circular or similar cross-section. The top 14a of each main leg 14 is formed with engaging portions 14b an d 14c for allowing the leg 14 to engage with the panels 30. The unit 1 2 panels 30 each is also formed with engaging portions 32, 38 and 43 (see FIG. 6B) at its four corners 36 (see FIG. 6A).

Each unit panel 30 should preferably have an area about one sixth to about one-third of the area of, e.g., a tile carpet or the floor panel (about 400 mm to about 600 mm square). Specifically, the unit panel 30 is about 100 min to about 200 tnni square (generally mm) so as to be laid on one of a plurality of divided areas of the floor panel 10. The unit panel or steel sheet 30 has a thickness t ranging from 1.00 mm to 2.5 min (generally 2.3 mm).

The unit panels 30 each having the above configuration should only be laid on the floor panel 10 such that they are sustained by the tops of the main and auxiliary legs 14 and 16 and the corners of the floor panel 10. This allows a uniform modular floor to be constructed which has a simple structure and stable support strength. With the above size, the unit panels 30 can follow irregularities on the floor of a building via the floor panels 10 laid on the floor.

The unit panels 30 have the same configuration and are sustained by the support portions having the same configuration.

This, coupled with the fact that the unit panels 30 are provided with sufficient mechanical strength by stamping and bending, reduces the number of parts and cost of a modular floor.

Description of Preferred Embodiments

1 3 1 Preferred embodiments of the floor panel in accordance with the present invention will be described hereinafter. It should b e noted that although the illustrative embodiments each is used to construct a modular floor for a double floor structure, such a n application is only illustrative.

FIGS. 1A, 1B, 2A, 2B and 3A-3D show a preferred embodiment of the floor panel 10 in accordance with the present invention, particularly some different configurations of the legs and connecting portions for connecting the legs. As shown in FIGS. 1 A and 2B, the floor panel 10 includes two different kinds of legs, i.e., main legs 14 and auxiliary legs 16 having support surfaces smaller in area than the support surfaces of the main legs 14. The legs 14 and 16 are connected together by the tie bars 18 each having a preselected width, as stated earlier. With this configuration, it is possible to reduce the weight of the floor panel 10.

In FIGS. IA, IB, 2A and 2B, the top (support surface hereinafter) 14a of each main leg 14 has a generally octagonal shape, as seen in a plan view. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 4, the support surface 14 may be provided with a circular support surface 14a. If desired, the number of the tie bars 18 included in the specific configurations may be increased in order to enhance rigid connection. In the specific configurations, the floor panel 10 includes nine main legs 14 and four auxiliary legs 16.The unit panel 30 is sustained by and between the main legs 14 and auxiliary legs 16.

14 1 Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the support surface 14a of each main leg 14 is formed with the previously mentioned engaging portions 14b for retaining the unit panels 30 and implemented as cruciform grooves. The main legs 14 and auxiliary legs 16 are connected together by the tie bars 18, constituting a group of legs. The arms 22, also included in the group of legs, each extends out from the respective outermost main leg 14 and has the same configuration as the tie bars 18.

More specifically, the arms 22 protrude from each outermost main leg 14 in the form of a letter V, as seen in a plan view. The first connecting portion (leg hereinafter) 24 or the second connecting portion (stub hereinafter) 26 is formed on the free end of each arm 22 or on the contiguous ends of nearby arms 22. Such a structure increases the mechanical strength of the arms 22 and allow them to withstand stresses to act thereon at the time of, e.g., execution. The free ends of the arms 22 are positioned on four contiguous sides substantially forming a square which is indicated by a phantom line 100. In the illustrative embodiment, the legs 24 are positioned on two contiguous sides of the above square while the stubs 26 are positioned on the other two contiguous sides of the square.

As shown in FIGS. 1B and 2B, the main legs 14 have the same height as each other while the auxiliary legs 16 have a height which is, e.g., slightly smaller than the height of the legs 14. More 1 5 specifically, each auxiliary leg 16 is positioned substantially at the center of the unit panel 30 supported by the adjoining main legs 14, as will be described in detail later. The height of the auxiliary leg 16 is selected such that in the above condition the leg 16 bears, in the auxiliary manner, a load which may act on the center of the unit panel 30.

The legs 24 for connection are substantially identical in shape and height with the auxiliary legs 16. In addition, the legs 24 are spaced from the main legs 14 by substantially the same distance as they are spaced from the auxiliary legs 16. The stubs 26 for connection are far smaller in height than the main legs 14 and auxiliary legs 16. In the illustrative embodiment, the height of the stubs 26 is selected to be less than substantially one-third of the height of the legs 14 and 16. Each stub 26 has a rounded top.

FIG. 2A is a plan view showing a plurality of floor panels 10 (10-1 and 10-2) joined together to constitute a modular floor and each having the configuration shown in FIG. 1A. In this sense, let the floor panels 10 be referred to as panel modules hereinafter. As shown, the two legs 24 of one panel module 10-2 are coupled over the two stubs 26 of the other panel module 10-1 from the above.

In this manner, each panel module 10 has one kind of connecting portions at the two contiguous sides of the square and another kind of connecting portion at the other two contiguous sides of the square. Therefore, a number of panel modules 10 (10-1, 10-2, lo- 3,..., 1 0-n) can be sequentially connected together i n a flat 1 6 1 configuration with case without resorting to any complicated consideration of layout.

The unit panel 30 is formed of, e.g., metal and supported by four adjacent main legs 14, as illustrated. Bent portions 34 extend downward from the four corner portions of the panel 30 in order to increase the mechanical strength of the panel 30 against loads. The bent portions 34 are respectively received in the grooves 14b formed in the support surfaces 14a of the main legs 14.

When the two panel modules 10-1 and together, as shown in FIG. 2A, the main legs 14 located at the joint portion insure the positional the main legs 14 and auxiliary legs 16 located at and insure the support of the unit panels 30. structural members for connection from showing the modular floor and degrading its appearance. legs 14 and 16 are arranged at the same intervals building underlying the modular floor, defining wiring.

10-2 are joined and the legs 24 relation between the other portions This prevents the themselves above In addition, the on the floor of a regular spaces for A basic procedure for connecting the panel modules 10-1 and 10-2 is as follows. As shown in FIG. 2B, one panel module 101 is laid on the floor of a building (base floor hereinafter). Then, the other panel module 10-2 is laid on the base floor with its legs 24 coupled over the corresponding stubs 26 of the panel module 10-1.

If desired, the main legs 14 and the auxiliary legs 16 and legs 24 of 1 7 each panel module 10 may be replaced with each other, in which case the modules 10 will be connected by use of the main legs 14 and stubs 26.

Referring to FIG. 3A, a specific connection structure including the arms 22 and the legs 24 and stubs 26 for connection will be described. As shown, at least the tie bars 18 and arms 22 each has a thin flexible configuration implemented by, e.g., the molding of resin so as to be elastically deformable. Therefore, each arm 22 can be elastically bent upward with ease. To join the panel modules 10-1 and 10-2, the module 102 is laid on the floor and then has its legs 24 coupled over the stubs 26 of the module 10-1 while being shifted toward the module 10-1, as shown in FIG. 2B. That is, the legs 24 should only be coupled over the stubs 26 at a height lower than the tops of the legs 24, i.e., at a height corresponding to the tops of the stubs 26. This makes it needless for the worker to lift the entire module 10-2 and then connect it to the module 10-1 laid on the base floor, as has been customary with modular panels.

The above embodiment includes the main legs 14 and auxiliary legs 16 smaller in support area than the main legs 14.

FIG. 3B shows an alternative embodiment having main one is shown), but lacking auxiliary legs.The main legs 32 (only legs 32 have support surfaces flush with each other. Stubs (only one is shown) 36 for connection has a height as small as one half of the height of the main legs 32, Legs (only one is shown) 34 for connection have the same height and contour as the main legs 32. A plurality of ribs 1 9 are formed on the inner periphery of each leg -34 for reinforcement, and each may have the configuration shown in FIG. 3B. For connection, each leg 34 of one panel module is coupled over the associated stub 36 of the other panel module in the same manner as in the structure shown in FIG. 3A.

FIG. 3C shows a stub 40 having a modified configuration and usable in combination with the leg 24 shown in FIG. 3A. As shown, the stub 40 is split into two portions substantially at its center. The two portions of the stub 40 are slightly spaced from each other.

The leg 24 has a hollow cylindrical configuration and is open at its bottom. When the leg 24 is coupled over the stub 40 from the above, the split portions of the stub 40 are pressed toward each other. In this condition, the split portions tend to elastically move away from each other, pressing the inner periphery of the leg 24 outward. This maintains the leg 24 and stub 40 firmly joined together.

FIG. 31) shows a stub 42 having another modified configuration. As shown, the stub 42 is implemented as two pieces 42a and 42b, connected together at their bottoms. Of course, the two pieces 42a and 42b may be replaced with three or more pieces, if desired. The pieces 42a and 42b are elastically deformable toward each other when subjected to a force of preselected size.

Each of the pieces 42a and 42b has a protuberance or larger diameter portion 43 protruding outward, as illustrated. In this case, the leg 24 is formed with two holes 25 corresponding in 19 1 position to the two pieces 42a and 42b of the stub 42 in its side wall. When the leg 24 is coupled over the stub 42 from the above, it causes the two pieces 42a and 42b to elastically bend toward each other. When the leg 24 is fully coupled over the stub 42, the 5 protuberances 43 of the pieces 42a. and 42b respectively fit in the holes 25. The leg 24 and stub 42 are therefore connected together more firmly than in the configurations of FIGS. 3A and3B in which the hollow leg is simply coupled over the stub.

It should be noted that the stubs 40 and 42 shown in FIGS. 3C and 31), respectively, are only illustrative. The crux is that the stub be formed by embossing, stamping or similar technology in such a manner as to be engageable with the associated leg in the up-and down direction and locked in position when engaged.

Reference will be made to FIG. 5 for describing a specific double floor structure constructed on the base floor of a building by use of the panel modules 10 having any one of the configurations described above. Specifically, FIG. 5 shows the edge portions of an area where the modular floor using the panel modules 10 is to be constructed, i.e., the edge portions of the base floor adjoining the walls of the building. As shown, a plurality of panel modules 1 0 joined together are laid on the floor of the building as far as a preselected position close to the walls. Border panels 50 are positioned by the walls, and each can have its width adjusted by being suitably cut off. A border cover 52 is laid on the portion of each border panel 50 closest to the wall while a border sheet 54 is laid on the other portion of the border panel 50.

The panel modules 10 located at the edge portions of the above area are positioned. such that their legs 24 for connection face the walls. Each border panel 50 is so extend to a preselected position preselected distance. The unit border panel 50 and main legs spanning the space between them.

are surely supported by the adjusted in position as to spaced from the legs 24 by a panels 30 are supported by the 14 at its opposite edge portions, In this condition, the unit panels border panel 50, a part of each outermost main leg 14, and the legs 24 intervening between the border panel 50 and the outermost main legs 14. As a result, each outermost unit panel 30 is supported by the associated leg 24 at its center in the same manner as the other unit panels 30. Therefore, the unit panels 30 at the edges of the expected area are held as stably as the other unit panels 30.

As stated above, even in the regions where the border panel and panel modules 10 join each other, the unit panels 30 are sustained by the border panels 50 and main legs 14 at their four corners. In addition, the auxiliary legs 16 or the legs 24 for connection each is positioned at substantially the center of the individual unit panel 30 and capable of sustaining the panel 30.

Specifically, the legs 16 and 24 each has a height slightly smaller than the height of the main legs 14. Assume that some load acts on the center of any one of the unit panels 30 due to the weight of an 2 1 equipment brought to the modular floor or the weight of a person walking on the modular floor. Then, the panel 30 isbent downward, but successfully sustained by the leg 16 or 24 at its center. With this configuration, it is possible to reduce the thickness and therefore the weight and cost of each unit panel or steel sheet 30 as far as possible, while preserving the load resisting function. For example, the thickness t of the unit panel 30 can be reduced below 2.3 mm, e.g., to 1.6 mm, realizing noticeable cost saving.

As shown in FIG. 5, it may occur that the stubs 26, instead of the legs 24, face the border panel 50 at the edge of the expected area. In such a case, the unit panels 30 will be sustained by the main legs 14 and border panel 50 at spanning the space close to the wall.

26 are far lower in height than the sustain substantially the centers of the their opposite end portions, However, because the stubs main legs 14, they cannot panels 30, resulting in short mechanical strength. In light of this, a third support member 4 5 may be fitted on each of such stubs 26 in order to provide it with the same height as the leg 24 or the main leg 14. This allows the borders to be dealt with in the same manner as the panel modules connected together by the insertion scheme.

In any one of the embodiments described above, the numbers and configurations of the support legs may be changed, as desired.

The hollow legs may be replaced with solid legs, if desired. Further, all the legs may be implemented as hollow legs in order to reduce 22 1 the overall weight of the individual floor panel 10, in which case ribs for reinforcement will be formed on the inner periphery of each leg.

The foregoing embodiments each has various unprecedented advantages, as follows. The floor panels 10 can be connected together with case by simple operation and stably held in a modular floor configuration. The floor panels 10 can be easily connected or disconnected without being bodily the base floor. Moreover, connectingmembers lifted away from do not protrude between the legs for supporting the unit panels 30, so that the connecting portions of the panels 30 are not conspicuous. In addition, when the floor panels 10 are used to construct a double floor structure, spaces for wiring can be effectively even between the legs.

guaranteed FIGS. 6A and 6B are respectively a plan view and a side elevation showing the unit panel 30 of FIGS. IA-2B. As shown, the unit panel 30 is implemented as a flat steel sheet having a preselected thickness. As shown in FIG. 6A, the panel 30 i s substantially square and formed with downward projections 32 at four corners 36 of its underside. As shown in FIG. 6B, each projection 32 has a substantially hemispherical convex surface 32.

As shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, a side wall or bent portion 34 extends downward from a preselected portion of each of four sides of the unit panel 30 in order to provide the panel 30 with sufficient 2 3 1 rigidity. Each side wall 34 has a height h and is spaced from the adjacent corners 36 of the unit panel 30 by a preselected distance in order to facilitate the attachment and detachment of the panel 30. The side wall 34 has extensions 38 at its opposite ends. The extensions 38 each is inserted into one of the grooves 14b of the associated main leg 14, as will be described in detail later. Each extension 38 has a height so selected as to facilitate and removal of the extension 38 from the associated Preferably, the height of the extensions 38 should lie slightly smaller than the height h of the side walls greater than substantially one half of the height h.

the insertion groove 14b. in a range 34, but not More specifically, each side wall 34 is notched stepwise by a preselected amount in order to form the opposite extensions 38.

The extensions 38 serve to adjust the engaging force of the unit panel 30 and thereby facilitate the attachment and detachment of the panel 30 from the grooves 14b of the main legs 14. However, this kind of structure is only illustrative. The height andlor the area of the extensions 38 may be varied in order to adjust the engaging force, as desired.

How the unit panel 30 is mounted to the associated main legs 14 will be described specifically hereinafter. FIG. 7 is an exploded fragmentary perspective view demonstrating how a single panel 30 is mounted to the floor panel 10. As shown, a sheet 40 intervenes between the unit panel 30 and the floor panel 10 and plays the role of a cushioning member. The sheet 40 may advantageously be 24 formed of an elastic material having a cushioning ability. For example, use may be made of a 0.5 mm to 2.5 mm thick sheet formed of flexible synthetic resin, foam material, rubber, unwoven cloth or similar material.

In the illustrative embodiment, the sheet 40 has a generally octagonal shape, as seen in a plan view, identical with the shape of the support surface 14a of the main leg 14. Slits 41 are formed in the sheet 40 at such positions that they overlie the grooves 14b when the sheet 40 is put on the support surface 14a. Four through holes 14c extend in the main leg 14, as illustrated. The sheet 40 is laid on the support surface 14a Qf the main leg 14 while covering the holes 14c, and then affixed to the surface 14a by a two-sided adhesive tape or similar two-sided adhering member, not shown.

The unit panel 30 is laid on four adjacent main legs 14 and over one auxiliary leg 16 with the intermediary of the sheet 40. At this instant, each corner 36 of the unit panel 30 occupies substantially one-fourth of the support surface 14a of the main leg 14 underlying it. The corners of the adjacent unit panels 30 sharing the support surface 14a of a single main leg 14 are spaced from each other by a preselected gap so as not to contact each other.

Each protuberance 32 extending downward from the underside of the unit panel 30 is fitted in the associated hole 14c of the main leg 14 from the above with the intermediary of the sheet 40. The panel 30 is therefore free from shaking ascribable to its 1 engaging condition on the floor panel 10. The extensions 38 of each panel 30 are respectively inserted into the grooves 14b via the slits 41 of the sheet or cushioning 40, so that the panel 30 is surely locked to the floor panel 10.

The panel 30 is simply flat, i.e., lacks the side wall 34 at each corner 36 over a preselected length. The flat portion of the unit panel 30 rests on the support surface 14a of the main leg 14 with the intermediary of the sheet 40. The flat portion therefore limits the depth to which the extension 38 can be inserted into the groove 14b. It follows that the unit panel 30 mounted to the support surface 14a in the above configuration can be easily dismounted from the same. For example, the unit panel 30 may be lifted and then removed from the panel module 10 by use of a suitable jig.

The engagement of the main leg 14 of the floor panel 10 an d the unit panel 30 will be described more specifically with reference to FIGS. 8A, 8B and 8C which are sections along line VIII-VIII of FIG. 7. First, assume that the base floor of the building is free from irregularities. Then, as shown in FIG. 8A, the protuberance 32 of the panel 30 can be easily inserted into the through hole 14c of the main leg 14 via the sheet 40. This is because the inner periphery of the hole 14c has its upper portion contiguous with the support surface 14a implemented as a tapered portion 15.

Further, because the bottom of the hole 14c is open, the protuberance 32 inserted into the hole 14c is sustained only by the 26 1 tapered portion 15 without abutting against the bottom of the hole 14c. In this condition, the protuberance 32 is surely retained b y the wall of the hole 14c. Even if the unit panel 30 bends for a moment due to, e.g., a load acting thereon, the protuberance 32 can be sustained by the wall of the hole 14c, without fail.

Moreover, the sheet or cushioning 40 holds the protuberance 32 in such a manner as to wrap it. Therefore, elasticity available with the sheet 40 itself serves to absorb shocks which may act on the panel 30 in the up-and-down direction. In addition, the sheet is sandwiched between the surface 32a of the protuberance 32 and the tapered portion 15, and is therefore protected from tearing or similar damage.

As shown in FIG. &A, the extension 38 of the panel 30 is inserted into the groove 14b via the slit 41 of the sheet 40. At this instant, the portion of the sheet 40 around the slit 41 bends downward and maintains the edge 41a of the slit 41 in contact with the extension 38 at all times. In this condition, high frequency noise, among others, unpleasant to the human auditory sense and including the echoes of footsteps on the unit panels 30 can be reduced.

Assume that the floor panel 10 follows an irregularity existing on the base floor, causing the main leg 12 to be displaced. Then, t he protuberance 32 of the unit panel 30 and the hole 14c of the main leg 14 are displaced from each other, as shown in FIG. 8B. In this 27 1 condition, the surface 32a of the protuberance 32 bites into the sheet 40 existing between the surface 32a and the tapered portion 15. This successfully locks the protuberance 32 to the main leg 14, and at the same time cushions the unit panel 30 on the floor panel 10. In addition, the sheet 40 intervenes between the unit panel 30 and the support surface 14a of the main leg 14 and prevents them from directly contacting each other, as represented by a circled portion F in FIG. 8B. Therefore, the unit panel 30 can be cushioned more positively.

Further, assume that the unit panel 30 is slightly raised above the support surface 14a of the main leg 14 due to an irregularity existing on the base floor, as shown in FIG. 8C. Then, the portion of the sheet 40 yielding into the hole 14c contacts the protuberance 3 2 of the unit panel 30 due to its elasticity, i.e., cushioning ability. As a result, the panel 30 is free from shaking ascribable to the irregularity of the base floor. This, coupled with the fact that the edge 41a of the slit 41 of the sheet 40 remains in contact with the extension 38 and side wall 34 contiguous with the extension 38, successfully reduces noise ascribable to footsteps.

It may occur that the irregularity of the base floor is so great, the protuberance 32 gets on the support surface 14a outside of the hole 14c. Even in such a case, the unit panel 30 can be surely fixed in place because the extension 38 remains in the groove 14b.

Again, the sheet 40 intervening between the protuberance 32 and the support surface 14a cushions the unit panel 30.

2 8 As stated above, even when any one of the floor panels or panel modules 10 is displaced due to the irregularity of the base floor, the unit panels 30 laid on the panel module can be surely retained on the module 10. Also, the unit panels 30 remain stable on the panel module 10 without shaking, and the echoes of footsteps on the panels 30 are positively reduced.

The configuration of the protuberance 32 of the unit panel 30 shown and described is only illustrative. When the unit panel 30 is implemented by a steel sheet, the protuberance 32 may be replaced with a finger- or a tongue-like protuberance formed by, punching, stamping or pressing. The crux is that the protuberance 32 be capable of positioning and affixing the panel 30, capable of absorbing an irregularity via the sheet 40, and capable of mating with the hole 14c.

FIG. 9A shows a structure lacking the protuberance 32 and through hole 14c for receiving a part of the protuberance 32. Even with this structure, it is possible to reduce, e.g., the echoes of footsteps on the unit panels 30 if the edges 41a of each slit 41 are held in contact with the extensions 38 of the panels 30 at all times, as shown in FIG. 9B. In addition, the support surface 14a of the main leg 14 and the adjacent panels 30 contact each other with the intermediary of the sheet 40. This prevents the adjacent panels 30 spaced by a preselected gap from shaking.

29 Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9A, the unit panels 30 havetheir sides configured such that the opposite edges 41a of the slit 41 of the sheet 40 at least contact the above sides or even urge them toward each other. The sheet 40 covers the groove 14b formed in the top of the main leg 14 in order to reduce the echoes of footsteps. When such unit panels 30 are laid on the floor panel 10, the extensions 38 of the nearby panels 30 are received in the grooves 14b, as shown in FIG. 9B. In this condition, the edges 41a of the slit 41 at least contact the inner surfaces of the extensions 38 of the unit panels 30 or even urge them toward each other. As a result, the echoes of footsteps, particularly high frequency components unpleasant to the human auditory sense, are reduced.

The structure shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B has thefollowing advantages. The sheet 40 contacts or holds the unit panel 30 only if the panel 30 has its extension 38 inserted into the groove 14b of the main leg 14, reducing the echoes of footsteps. The sheet 40 should only be placed on the support surface 14a of the main leg 14 with its slit 41 positioned above the groove 14b. Moreover, when a person walks on the unit panel 30 or when some load acts on the panel 30, the sheet 40 contacts at least one end of one edge of the panel 30 received in the groove 14b and thereby holds the panel 30. Therefore, the unit panel 30 is surely prevented from producing noise even if the base floor has some irregularity.

A modification of any one of the embodiment shown in FIGS.

7, 8A, 8B, 8C, 9A and 9B will be described with reference to FIG. 10.

As shown, a floor panel 50 to be laid on the base floor of includes a support portion 54 formed with a preselected number of protuberances 5 1. Unit panels 60 to be mounted to the floor panel 50 each has two through holes (only one is shown) 65 formed therein. This modification is similar to the configuration shown in FIG. 8A except that the hole 14c is inverted in position in the upand-down direction. The modification is comparable with the configuration of FIG. 8A as to the function, operation, and advantages.

Specifically, the support portion 54 has a particular si-re depending on its position. The protuberances 51 are formed at preselected positions within the support portion 54. The protuberances are similar to the protuberances 32 shown in FIG. 3A 11 except that they are turned upside down in the up-and-down direction.

The unit panels 60 each has a flat top wall 61 and four legs (only one is shown) 62 extending downward from the four corners of the top wall 61. The legs 62 each is made up of a wall 63 having a preselected height, and a bottom 64 extending from the lower end of the wall 63 in parallel with the top wall 61 toward the bottom 64, not shown, of the opposite leg 62, not shown. The two through holes 65 are formed in the preselected positions of the bottom 64 and capable of receiving the protuberances 51 of the support portion 54.

3 1 As shown in FIG. 10, a sheet or cushioning 80 is laid on the bottom 53 of the support portion 54 and has a substantially rectangular configuration so as to be positioned on the bottom 53. The sheet 80 should only be laid on the bottom 53 of the support portion 54, i.e., it does not have to be adhered to the bottom 53 a s in the previous embodiments. In addition, the sheet 80 does n o t have to be formed with the slits 41 assigned to the extensions 38 of the unit panels 30.

In any of the above embodiment and modification, the panels or 60 can be positioned and affixed accurately by a simple procedure via the protuberances 32 of the panels 30 or 60 or the protuberances 51 of the support portions 54. This allows a modular floor and therefore a double floor structure to be constructed with case.

In any one of the structures shown and described, the through holes 14e may each be replaced with a bore having a bottom at its level where the sheet 40 pushed into the bore by the associated protuberance 32 will not contact the bottom.

Each floor panel 10 or 50 should preferably be implemented as a single molding of noncombustible or noninflammable resin.

Preferably, the panel module 10 or 50 is sized about 450 mm to about 600 mm square based on the tile carpet size. The unit panel and 60 should each preferably be implemented as an about 100 mm to 200 mm square, about 1.0 mm to 2.5 mm thick steel sheet to 3 2 1 be laid on one of a plurality of divided areas of the floor panel 10. This kind of unit panel is capable of following and even absorbing the irregularity of the base floor and is light weight. The unit panel is therefore easy to transport and lay and implements a double 5 floor structure sufficiently withstanding loads.

The cushioning sheet 40 or 80 may each be formed of a vibration reducing material or a sound absorbing material, if desired. The crux is that the sheet 40 or 80 be formed of an elastic material capable of protecting the unit panel 30 from shaking ascribable to the irregularity of the base floor, and reducing, e.g., the echoes of footsteps on the modular floor.

The configuration of each main leg or first support portion 14 will be described more specifically with reference to FIGS. 11A and 1 1B. As shown, the main leg 14 has incisions 14d in addition to the grooves 14b which play the role of guides in the event when the 14 is cut apart, as will be described. The incisions 14d leg are contiguous with the grooves 14b and formed in either one of the lower part of the outer periphery of the leg 14 and the support surface or top 14a of the leg 14. A cutter or similar cutting tool may be applied to the incisions 14d and then pressed in the upand-down direction in order to cut apart the leg 14. As shown in FIG. 11B, the leg 14 is made up of four hollow blocks 14-1, 14-2, 14-3 and 14-4 positioned at the four corners of the leg 14. The hollow blocks 14-1 through 14-4 each has the top wall 14a, an outer side wall 15 and an inner side wall 13 each having a 3 3 1 preselected thickness t. Therefore, the hollow blocks 14-1 through 14-4 each has a sufficient mechanical strength even when the leg 14 is cut apart into two or four along the incisions 14d.

In the configuration shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B, the incisions 14d are formed in both the lower portion of the outerperiphery and the top 14a of the main leg 14. Alternatively, the incisions 14d may be formed only in the outer periphery or even in the inner periphery of the leg 14. If desired, such a different configurations of the leg 14 may be used either individually or in combination.

FIGS. 12A and 12B each shows another specific configuration of the main leg 14 in a plan view (top) and a side elevation (bottom). As shown, four blocks 14-1 through 14-4 indicated by hatching each has the grooves 14b for receiving the side walls 34 or their extensions 38 of the unit panels 30, and the incisions 14d for allowing the leg 14 to be cut apart. In FIG. 12A, the incisions 14d are formed in the outside of the leg 14 with respect to the grooves 14b while, in FIG. 12B, they are formed in the inside of the leg 14.

In any one of the configurations shown in FIGS. 11A through 12B, a cutter or similar cutting tool may be applied to at least one of the incisions 14d and then pressed in the up-and-down direction.

This allows the leg 14 to be easily cut apart so as to form a space for receiving, e.g., a wiring device.

34 In FIGS. 11A and 11B, the leg 14 additionally has a through hole 19 having a circular cross-section at its center, When it is desired to cut away only one-fourth of the leg 14, in terms of the area of the top 14a, in order to form a space for receiving a wiring device, the through hole 19 prevents cuts from extending to the remaining three-fourths of the area of the top 14a.

For example, an edged tool whose length is greater than the width of the leg 14 may be applied to any desired incisions 14d and the pressed or stamped in the up-and-down direction. With this kind of tool, it is possible to cut away one or more of the legs 14 at the same time, and therefore to facilitate the construction of the modular floor.

FIGS. 13A through 13D each shows a particular condition wherein the floor panel 10 including the legs 14 and 24, stubs 26, tie bars 18 and arms 22 is cut apart according to a preselected rule in order to reassemble a particular floor module. In FIG. 3, the floor panel 10 is cut apart along bold lines 101 and 103 so as to separate it into submodules al-a4. In FIG. 13B, the floor panel 10 is cut apart along tree bold lines 101 in order to separate it into submodules bl-b4. In FIG. 13C, the floor panel 10 is cut apart along a single bold line 101 and a single bold line 103 in order to separate it into submodules cl-c4. In FIG. 13D, the floor panel 10 is cut apart along two bold lines 101 and four bold lines 105 in order to separate it into submodules dl-d3. In this manner, the floor 3 5 panel 10 is cut apart according to a preselected rule. This step will be referred to as a first step.

In a second step, the submodules separated in the above first step have their legs 24 and stubs 26 coupled together in order to prevent them from appearing at the edges of the main legs 14. As a result, a floor module different in configuration from the floor module 10 is reconstructed. Specifically, the submodules al-a4 shown in FIG. 13A are rotated 180 degrees each and then have their legs 24 and stubs 26 coupled together in such a manner as to form a floor module shown in FIG. 14A.

The submodules bl-b4 shown in FIG. 13B and divided into three in the horizontal direction are reassembled in a horizontal array. First, the submodules b2 and H are connected horizontally via their legs 24 and stubs 26, and then the submodules bl and b4 are located to face each other and connected together in the same manner. The resulting bl. and b4 subassembly is connected to the above subassembly b3 horizontally. As a result, a panel module shown in FIG. 14B is produced.

The submodules cl-c4 shown in FIG. 13C are separated by cutting the floor panel 10 at its right side and bottom side. The submodules cl-c4 are again connected together at their positions symmetrical to their cut positions. First, the submodules cl and c2 are connected together at their left sides, and then the submodules c3 is connected to the subinodule cl at its one end. The remaining 36 1 submodule c4 is placed at the top left of FIG. 13C. Consequently, a panel module shown in FIG. 14C is produced which is basically identical with the panel module shown in FIG. 14A.

Further, the submodules dl-d3 shown in FIG. 13D are separated by cutting apart the upper and lower portions and four corner portions of the floor panel 10. The submodules d2 and d3 are connected to both sides of the submodule dl via the legs 24 and stubs 26. The four corner portions are not connected to any of the submodules dl-d3. As a result, an oblong panel module shown in FIG, 14D is produced.

A plurality of panel modules having any one of the above specific configurations is sequentially laid on the floor of a building so as to construct a modular floor for a double floor structure.

In a third step, a plurality of unit panels 30 are evenly laid on each of the above panel modules such that they are sustained by the main legs or first support portions 14 and auxiliary legs or second support portions 16.

As stated above, by cutting apart the main legs 14 along the incisions 14d according to any desired rule, e.g., one of the rules shown in FIGS. 13A-13D, it is possible to reconstruct a floor panel or panel module different in shape andlor area from the original floor panel 10. The reconstructed floor panel includes no legs 24 or no stubs 26 extending out therefrom, as shown in any one of FIGS.

37 14A-14D specifically. This kind of rearranged floor panel may be laid in a residual space on the base floor or in abutmentagainst another kind of floor panel, e.g., the boarder panel 50, FIG. 5, facilitating the work for filling up residual spaces adjoining the walls. In addition, because the area of the rearranged floor panel is variable, the floor panel can be configured in matching relation to the residual area adjoining the walls.

Of course, the four different cutting patterns shown in FIGS.

13A-131) are only illustrative. In accordance with the present invention, the main legs 14 may alternatively be cut apart and then rearranged complimentarily to, e.g., a notch around a pillar.

Industrial Applicability

In summary, it will be seen that the present invention providesa floor panel including support portions and useful as, e.g., a mat or a tile to be laid on the floor either inside or outside of a building. In addition, the floor panel of the present invention is capable of forming a modular floor lying over the floor of a building in a double floor structure, i.e., a so-called free access floor. The spaces available in the double floor structure may be used to arrange pipings, under-floor air conditioning arrangements, etc.

Such spaces may even be used to store any desired goods.

3 8

Claims

1 1. A floor panel comprising:

a group of support portions (14, 16) arranged ina substantially polygonal configuration, as seen in a plan view; a plurality of coupling portions (24) arranged at at least one of two contiguous sides of said group of support portions, and each being substantially identical in configuration with said second support portions (16) and having a concave bottom; and a plurality of coupling portions (26) arranged at at least one of other two contiguous sides of said group of support portions, and each having a convex portion complementary to said concave bottom of the coupling portion (24), whereby said coupling portions of one floor panel are coupled over said coupling portions of another floor panel from the above.

2. A floor panel in accordance with claim 1, wherein said coupling portions (24) said coupling portions (26) are coupled together and laid on a floor of a building, constituting a modular floor (10) over the floor of the building.

1 3. A floor panel in accordance with claim 1, further comprising a plurality of unit panels (30) laid on tops of said (14, 16), each of said unit panels (30) having each corner thereof supported by substantially one-fourth of an area of the top of any one of said support portions, and having a substantially center thereof supported by the top of any one of said support portion.

39 4. A floor panel in accordance with claim 1, wherein said support portions (14, 16) comprise: main legs (14) spaced from each other by a preselected distance; and 1 said portions (16) comprise auxiliary leg s each being positioned between nearby main legs at a preselected distance and having a diameter different from a diameter of said main legs.

5. A floor panel in accordance with claim 3, wherein said support portions (14, 16) include a plurality of blocks (14-1, 14-2, 14-3, 14-4) formed in the vicinity of the top thereof supporting corners (36) of said panels (30), and divided from each other by incisions (14d).

1 6. A floor panel comprising:

a group of support portions (14, 16) arranged in a substantially polygonal configuration, as seen in a plan view; arms (22) connecting said plurality of support portions, and extending substantially radially with a preselected width to thereby locate said plurality of support portions at a substantially same distance; first coupling portions (24) provided on the arms extending outward from the first support portions (14, 16) arranged at at least one of two contiguous sides of said support portions; second support portions (26) provided on the arms extending out from the support portions (14, 16) arranged at at least one of the other two contiguous sides of said support portions; wherein when said first coupling portions (24) of one floor panel and said second coupling portions (26) of another floor panel are engaged with each other, and wherein said support portions (14, 16) are uniformly spaced by a substantially same distance by said arms (22).

1 7. A floor panel in accordance with claim 6, further comprising unit panels (30) laid on tops of said support portions (14, 16), each of said unit panels (30) having each corner thereof supported by substantially one-fourth of an area of the top of any one of said support portions, and having a substantially center thereof supported by the top of any one of said support portions.

8. A floor panel in accordance with claim 6, wherein said support portions (14, 16) comprise:

main legs (14) spaced from each other by a preselected distance; said portions (16) comprising auxiliary legs (16) each being positioned between nearby main legs (14) at a preselected distance and having a diameter different from a diameter of said main legs (14).

9. A floor panel in accordance with claim 6, wherein said support portions (14, 16) each includes a plurality of blocks (14-1, 14-2, 14-3, 14-4) formed in the vicinity of the top thereof supporting corners (36) of said panels (30), and divided by incisions (14d) from each other.

4 1 support portions and 10. A method of constructing a floor panel, comprising:

a first step of preparing a floor panel (10) comprising a group of support portions (14, 16) arranged in a substantially polygonal configuration, as seen in. a plan view, arms (22) connecting sai d extending substantially radially with a preselected width to thereby locate said support portions at a substantially same distance, first coupling portions (24) provided o n the arms extending outward from at least one of said support portions arranged at at least one of two contiguous sides of said support portions, second coupling portions (26) provided on the arms extending out from the other of said support portions arranged at at least one of the. other two contiguous sides of said support portions, said first coupling portions (24) and said second coupling portions (26) being engageable with each other; a second step of coupling said first coupling portions (24) and said second coupling portions (26) to thereby lay a plurality of floor panels (10); and a third step of laying a plurality of unit panels (30) on said support portions (14, 16) such that said unit panel have corners and substantially centers thereof sustained by tops of said support portions, whereby a modular floor for a double floor structure is constructed.

11. A method in accordance with claim 10, further comprising a fourth step of laying, after said third step, unit panels (30) 42 contiguously with said unit panels (30) in order to bridge border portions (50) adjoining walls or pillars.

12. A floor panel comprising:

a group of support portions (14, 16) made up of a plurality of support portions;; arms (22) connecting said support portions and locating said support portions at a substantially same distance; unit panels (30) laid on tops of said support portions (14, 16); and engaging portions (14b, 14c; 38, 34) for allowing the top (14a) of any one of said support portions and one corner portion (36) of any one of said unit panels to be engaged with each other.

13. A floor panel in accordance with claim 12, further comprising a cushioning (40) intervening between each of said support portions (14, 16) and each of said unit panels (30), and at least contacting the engaging portions of the unit panel (30).

14. A floor panel in accordance with claim 12 or 13, wherein said engaging portions (14a, 14b; 38, 34) comprise:

protuberances (32, 51) formed on a support surface (36) of corner portions of said unit panel (30, 60) or a panel support surface of a support portion (54); and through holes (14c, 65) formed in the top (14a) of an individual first support portion or support surfaces (64) of corners 43 of an individual unit panel, said protuberances being received in said through holes.

1 1 15. A floor panel in accordance with any one of claims 12, 13 and 14, wherein said engaging portions (14b, 14c; 38, 34) comprise:

grooves (14b) formed in the top of an individual support portion (14); and notched portions (38) extending from side edges of corners of an individual unit panel (30) and mating with said grooves (14b).

16. A floor panel in accordance with any one of claims 12, 13 and 15, wherein when any one of said unit panels (30) is laid on the top (14a) of any one of said support portions, one of said engaging portions (38) of the one unit panel mates with an associated one of said grooves (14b) while the other of said engaging portions (38) mates with a groove (50b) formed in a top of a border portion (50), whereby said one unit panel (30) bridges a space between the one support portion and said border portion in a flush configuration.

1 17. A floor panel in accordance with claim 12, wherein said support portions (14, 16) each includes a plurality of blocks (14-1, 14-2, 14-3, 14-4) formed in the vicinity of the top thereof supporting corners (36) of said panels (30), and divided by incisions (14d) from each other.

18. A floor panel in accordance with any one of claims 13, 15 and 16, wherein said cushioning (40) at least partly contacts said 44 1 unit panel (30) when said unit panel is laid on the top of said first support portion.

1 19. A floor panel unit comprising: a plurality of suppoTt portions (14, 16) arranged in a plurality of arrays; and arms (22) connecting said support portions to each other; said support portions (14) each including a plurality of incisions (14d) formed in at least one of a top (14a), an outer periphery (15) and an inner periphery (13) and substantially serving as reference positions, whereby the first support portion is capable of being cut apart in a vertical direction.

1 20, A floor panel unit in accordance with claim 19, wherein said support portions (14) each includes engaging portions (14d) formed on a top and each being engaged with an edge of a unit panel (30) when said unit panel is laid on said top; said engaging portions (14b) substantially serving as reference positions for cutting apart the support portion.

1 1 21. A floor panel unit in accordance with claim 19 or 20, wherein said plurality of first support portions each includes a plurality of blocks formed in the vicinity of a top supporting corners of said panels, and divided by incisions from each other.

22. A method of laying a floor panel, comprising:

a first step of preparing a floor panel unit (10) comprising a plurality of array s of support portions (14, 16), arms (22) connecting said support portions to each other, said support portions each including a plurality of incisions (14d) formed in at least one of a top (14a), an outer periphery (15) and an inner periphery (13) and substantially serving as reference positions so as to be capable of being cut apart in a vertical direction, and coupling portions (24, 26) provided on said arms extending out from said support portions (14, 16); a second step of cutting apart said floor panel unit (10) according to a preselected rule along said plurality of incisions (14d) to thereby form a plurality of divided floor panel units (ala4, bl-b4, cl-c4, dl-d3); and a third step of connecting said divided floor panel units (ala4, bl-b4, cl-c4, dl-d3) via said coupling portions (24, 26) such that said coupling portions (24, 26) do not appear at outside of said support portions, whereby a coupled floor panel unit (FIGS, 14A14D) different from said floor panel unit (10) is reconstructed.

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