Importance

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Abstract

A slip-resistant floor covering system comprising, in accordance with preferred embodiments of apparatus of the present invention, a slip-resistant tile having a plurality of pyramidal-shaped ridges which support an individual's foot at an elevation above liquid and other slip-inducing substances which flow through a network of drainage troughs (each trough being defined between adjacent ridges) and channels in the upper surface of the tile. The ridges of the plurality of ridges are directionally oriented relative to the channels to encourage rapid flow of spilled liquid and other substances away from a spill site. The orientation of the ridges relative to the channels also induces air flow through the troughs and channels in order to reduce foot and leg fatigue which may be experienced by an individual standing on the tile for long periods of time. Protruding members, extending from the lower surface of the tile, contact a floor surface and limit relative movement between the tile and the floor surface. Anti-bacterial and anti-fungal agents, impregnated into the material of the tile, reduce the growth of bacteria and fungi in and around the tile. In a first preferred embodiment of the apparatus, the system includes a plurality of cavities, passageways, and bores defined by the base and lower surface of the tile. In accordance with a preferred embodiment of a method of the present invention, pluralities of clips and pins received by respective pluralities of adjacent cavities, passageways, and bores of adjacent tiles, secure adjacent tiles together in an assembly which is tailorable, at the time of installation, to cover a desired area of floor surface.

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First Claim