GB2434979A - An adjustable lattice base system - Google Patents

Abstract

An adjustable lattice base system is disclosed. In one embodiment it consists of foam strips heat-welded or glued together at strategic points so that they can be pulled out to form a lattice. Alternatively, the foam strips can be connected together by plastic or rubber blocks and the lattice held open by draw cords. The lattice traps air and forms an insulating mat. The lattice is intended to form a base for tents but can also be used in backpacking, camping and leisure activities. In another example, the lattice is made of blocks which are pivotally linked together to form the lattice and sand/aggregate is poured into the lattice spaces. This is primarily intended for use in constructing temporary roadways.

Description

<p>This application is for, An adjustable lattice base system for leisure

and industrial use.</p>

<p>From one basic design two foims of the lattice base are proposed, "Base One" is a portable foam mat with two variations.</p>

<p>"Base Two" is a portable semi ridged lattice for temporary roadways and compounds.</p>

<p>"Base One" [mat] This is designed for use in backpacking, camping and leisure activities.</p>

<p>Primarily this base is for use between the ground and small inner tents to provide greater insulation, comfort and protection from flooding. The base is made from 700mm x 40mm strips of 8mm or 12mm foam matting, which are either heat-welded or glued together at strategic points to make up a lattice base that when pulled out expands in area to trap air and form an insulating mat 40mm deep. This version is held into position by tent pegs.</p>

<p>"Base One A" This mat is similar to "Base One" except instead of each strip of foam being either heat-welded or glued together they are connected, in pairs, by injection moulded plastic or rubber blocks. Draw cords running through every second line of blocks allows the lattice to be held open without the use of pegs. This mat can be used on any hard surface where pegs can't be used.</p>

<p>Drawing 1. Plan of "Base One" sections open and partially open.</p>

<p>Drawing 2. Picture of "Base One A" in the open position showing connecting blocks and draw cords ["Base One" has no draw cords or connecting blocks].</p>

<p>Drawing 3. Connecting block detail without foam strips.</p>

<p>Drawing 4. "Base One A" folded for transport.</p>

<p>"Base Two" [roadway/platform] This base is semi ridged and can be used in a wide range of situations, but its primary function is for constructing temporary vehicle and pedestrian access. Unlike conventional temporary roadways currently available this base has depth and can stack to fill in any ground undulations. The base is made from moulded plastic blocks and links that join together to make an adjustable lattice. This lattice can be opened out to cover three times its closed area. When the base is broken down into its component parts these parts are almost indestructible and can be delivered from aircraft without using Parachutes.</p>

<p>Figure 1. Shows the two component parts of the base and how they fit together.</p>

<p>Blocks are made up of two identical halves, top and bottom. These halves lock together to hold the joining links in place. Links are secured by pegs on the top and bottom of each arm that fit into corresponding holes on each half of the block. Blocks accept two joining links, one on each end.</p>

<p>Figure 2. Is a plan drawing and side view of a section of base in the closed transport' position.</p>

<p>Figure 3. Is a plan drawing and side view of a section of base in the open position for maximum ground coverage.</p>

<p>The blocks and links are fitted together into manageable sections that are then connected together to form the lattice base to the required size.</p>

<p>Construction layout; the first row of the lattice is made by joining alternating blocks and links end to end. The two free arms on each link alternate to the left and right sides of the first row of blocks and links.</p>

<p>These free link arms accept the next two rows of blocks and links. The base is formed when the lattice is pulled out or open. The lattice can be held open with pegs, square or diamond shaped blocks [not shown] or sand! aggregate poured into the lattice spaces.</p>

Claims (1)

1. <p>Claims 1. An adjustable lattice base system comprising ofjoined strips

   of foam matting.</p>

   <p>2. Matting according to claim 1, with additional connecting blocks and pull cords.</p>

   <p>3. Base according to claim 1, made from moulded plastic blocks and links hinged to form the lattice instead of foam matting.</p>