INTERLOCKING MAT

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a foldable drying mat configured to support various dishware configurations, comprising a plurality of interconnected rectangular drying panels, wherein each drying panel further comprises two lateral short sides and two longitudinal long sides, and a top surface and an opposing bottom surface with a flat base on each surface; wherein each drying panel is pivotally connected to at least one adjacent panel; wherein the drying panels are selectively adjustable, such that at least two adjacent panels can be positioned at an angle relative to one another, thereby creating various elevations.

Claims

1. A foldable drying mat configured to support various dishware configurations, comprising: a plurality of interconnected rectangular drying panels, each drying panel comprising: two lateral short sides and two longitudinal long sides, and a top surface and an opposing bottom surface with a flat base on each surface, wherein each drying panel is pivotally connected to at least one adjacent panel, wherein the drying panels are selectively adjustable, such that at least two adjacent panels can be positioned at an angle relative to one another, thereby creating various elevations.

2. The foldable drying mat of claim 1, wherein connectors facilitate the pivotal connection of at least two drying panels, the connectors comprising strips positioned between and along the longitudinal sides of the drying panels, wherein the connectors may be articulated to allow the panels to rotate relative to one another around a shared axis.

3. The foldable drying mat of claim 2, wherein each of the plurality of drying panels includes an elevated perimeter edge designed to contain water within the respective panels, and wherein the elevated perimeter edges of the drying panels further comprise a beveled exterior portion that is angled inwardly towards the center of either the top surface or the bottom surface and outwardly from the center of the opposing surface.

4. The foldable drying mat of claim 3, wherein: the drying panels are pivotally interconnected in an alternating end-to-end pattern such that each panel's beveled elevated perimeter edge is counterposed in orientation to that of its adjacent drying panel or panels; and wherein the alternating pattern allows for the panels to be folded in a manner that the elevated perimeter edges of consecutive panels can rest within each other.

5. The foldable drying mat of claim 4, wherein the drying panels are configurable into a fully expanded position, such that the panels are substantially parallel to each other.

6. The foldable drying mat of claim 4, wherein the drying panels are configurable into a fully collapsed position, in which all panels are folded atop one another in a stacked configuration to achieve a compact storage profile.

7. The foldable drying mat of claim 4, wherein the drying panels are configured into a bi-fold position, wherein the mat is folded along a central axis to form two stacks of panels.

8. The foldable drying mat of claim 4, wherein the drying panels are configurable into an angular position, forming a triangular shape with a horizontal base created by one or more panels lying flat.

9. The foldable drying mat of claim 4, wherein the drying panels are configurable into an angular position, forming a triangular shape that stands without a horizontal base.

10. The foldable drying mat of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of drying panels further comprises a series of protrusions extending vertically from at least one base of each drying panel, the protrusions being configured to separate and support dishware placed on the mat for drying, and to facilitate water drainage away from the dishware.

11. The foldable drying mat of claim 10, wherein the protrusions comprise a plurality of parallel rectangular ridges.

12. The foldable drying mat of claim 10, wherein the protrusions are tapered along their long sides, such that they interlock with the corresponding protrusions when panels are folded into one another.

13. The foldable drying mat of claim 1, wherein the mat further comprises end grips integrally formed with the drying panels at the lateral extremities of the mat for facilitating manual handling and maneuverability of the mat.

14. The foldable drying mat of claim 13, wherein the end grips have a reduced horizontal cross-sectional dimension relative to the horizontal cross-sectional dimension of the elevated perimeter edges of the drying panels.

15. The foldable drying mat of claim 14, wherein the end grips taper from a wider connection point at its junction with the adjacent drying panel to a narrower terminus.

16. The foldable drying mat of claim 1, wherein the drying mat is comprised of one or more elastic materials, thereby allowing the mat to withstand repeated stress of folding and unfolding.

17. The foldable drying mat of claim 16, wherein the material of the drying mat comprises a non-slip texture to prevent movement during use.

18. The foldable drying mat of claim 16, wherein the material of the drying mat further comprises antimicrobial properties.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] The foregoing and other aspects of the present invention are best understood from the following detailed description when read in connection with the accompanying drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the invention, there are shown in the drawings embodiments that are presently preferred, it being understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the specific instrumentalities disclosed. Included in the drawings are the following Figures:

[0015] FIG. 1 depicts a top perspective view of the drying mat fully expanded, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIGS. 2A-2B depict top and bottom views of the drying mat, respectively, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIGS. 3A-3B depict lateral side views of the drying mat, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIGS. 4A-4B depict longitudinal side views of the drying mat, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIGS. 5A-5C depict views of the drying mat folded into a single panel, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIGS. 6A-6B depict views of the drying mat folded into two panels, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIGS. 7A-7C depict views of the drying mat folded into three panels, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 8 depicts a cross-sectional lateral side view of the drying mat folded into three panels, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 9 depicts an enlarged cross-sectional lateral view of a set of panels folded onto of one another, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIGS. 10A-10C depict the drying mat in various partially folded states, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIGS. 11A-11C depicts the drying mat in use, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] The present disclosure pertains to a foldable drying mat, designed for the effective drying of kitchenware. In some embodiments, the mat is characterized by its modular design, comprising a plurality of drying sections, or panels, each functioning as a distinct zone for drying dishes, utensils, and other kitchen implements. These panels, when the mat is fully expanded, create a large continuous surface area, capable of accommodating a wide range of kitchen items.

[0027] In some embodiments, the mat comprises protrusions extending from each panel, designed to aid in the separation and support of drying items.

[0028] In some embodiments, the mat is foldable. This foldability may be achieved through a plurality of connectors that link the drying panel along their longitudinal edges. These connectors allow the mat to be folded into various configurations, ranging from fully expanded to compactly stacked, providing flexibility in use and storage.

[0029] Turning now to the figures, FIG. 1 depicts a top perspective view of a foldable drying mat 100 in a fully expanded configuration, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] In some embodiments, the mat 100 presents a substantially rectangular profile comprising a plurality of rectangular drying panels 200 aligned along to the longitudinal axis of the mat 100. Adjacently positioned, each drying panel 200 functions as a distinct dish-drying zone.

[0031] In some embodiments, each drying panel 200 forms the primary surface for the placement and drying of dishes, utensils, and other kitchen implements. In the fully expanded state as depicted in FIG. 1, the drying panel 200 are parallel, collectively yielding a substantially flat and continuous drying surface.

[0032] In some embodiments, the drying panels 200 have top face and a bottom face with a base 230, or a flat surface, on each face. In some embodiments, protrusions 240 extend vertically from the top and bottom surfaces of the base 230 of each drying panel 200, providing separation and support for drying items, while facilitating water diversion away from items placed on top of the protrusions 240. Surrounding each drying panel 200 is an elevated perimeter edge 210, which extends vertically from the perimeter of the base 230 to contain water within the drying panel 200.

[0033] In some embodiments, the exterior portion of the edges 210 are beveled, angling either away from or towards the interior of the drying panel 200. In some embodiments, as depicted in FIG. 1, each drying panel's 200 orientation is counterposed to its adjacent counterpart.

[0034] In some embodiments, connectors 300 link the drying panels 200 along their longitudinal edges, acting as the articulation points for folding the mat 100.

[0035] In some embodiments, the mat 100 further comprises end grips 400 at the mat's shorter, or terminal ends, with at least one grip 400 affixed to at least one terminal drying panel 200. These grips 400 provide leverage and convenience in handling, adjusting, or transporting the mat 100.

[0036] In some embodiments, the drying panels 200 have both a top and bottom surface that can be interchangeably placed facing upwards, as depicted in FIG. 2A (top view) and FIG. 2B (bottom view), without affecting the functionality of the mat 100. In some embodiments, both the top and bottom surface of each drying panel has a base 230. In some embodiments, as depicted in FIGS. 2A-2B, both surfaces have the same pattern of protrusions 240 in each drying panel.

[0037] In some embodiments, as depicted in FIGS. 1-3B, the periphery of each drying panel 200 is defined by an elevated perimeter edge 210 that acts as a barrier to contain water and define the separate drying panels 200. Each elevated perimeter edge 210 extends continuously around the outer boundary of the drying panels 200, maintaining a uniform height, both to maintain consistent containment of water and to provide a level resting surface when facing downwards and providing support for the entire mat.

[0038] In some embodiments, as depicted in FIG. 1 and the lateral side views depicted in FIGS. 3A-3B, the edges 210 are beveled, such that the edges 210 are angled inwardly towards the center of either the top surface or the bottom surface and outwardly from the center of the surface on the opposite site of the corresponding drying panel 200. When viewed from the side, as depicted in FIGS. 3A-3B, the edges 210 present a trapezoidal profile. FIGS. 3A-3B further illustrate how, in some embodiments, the drying panels 200 are arranged in an alternating sequence, such that the shorter base of the trapezoid-shaped edge 210 alternates between the bottom and top positions along the length of the mat 100.

[0039] In some embodiments, as depicted in FIGS. 1-2B, the drying mat 100 further comprises a plurality of protrusions 240 in each drying panel 200. In some embodiments, these protrusions 240 are linear elements that rise vertically from the base 230 and span nearly the length of each drying panel 200. In some embodiments, these linear protrusions 240 are positioned parallel to one another. In some embodiments, as depicted in FIG. 9, the protrusions are tapered along their longer sides. This aspect helps the panels to interlock with one another when folded, preventing the mat from opening due to shape and material friction.

[0040] In some embodiments, the protrusions 240 may be comprised of a material that allows them to be structurally firm yet sufficiently flexible to cushion impacts, thereby minimizing the risk of damage to delicate dishware during the drying process.

[0041] In some embodiments, as depicted in FIGS. 1-3B, the drying mat 100 comprises connectors 300 that link the individual drying panels 200 to one another. These connectors 300 may comprise elongated, slender strips situated between and connecting the longitudinal sides of adjacent drying panel 200.

[0042] In some embodiments, the positioning of the connectors 300 allows them to articulate in relation to one another around a shared axis. This provides the functionality for both the expansion and the compact folding of the mat 100. The connectors 300 can facilitate the orderly stacking of the drying panels 200 on top of each other, as depicted in FIGS. 5A-7C, resulting in a consolidated configuration for storage or transportation. In some embodiments, the connectors 300 are constructed from a material that possesses both tensile strength and elasticity. The connectors 300 can withstand the repeated stress of folding and unfolding without deforming or breaking. Further, the cross-sectional shape and the placement of the connectors 300 also facilitates bending on one axis, the longitudinal edge of the drying panels 200, while maintaining a degree of rigidity in the other, corresponding to the mat's 100 longitudinal plane.

[0043] In some embodiments, as depicted in FIGS. 1-3B and FIGS. 4A-4B, the drying mat 100 further comprises end grips 400, which are located at the shorter ends of the mat 100 to assist in the ergonomic handling of the mat. As depicted in FIGS. 3A-3B, these end grips 400 protrude horizontally from the terminal drying panels 200, creating an element for users to comfortably grasp and maneuver the mat 100. In some embodiments, as depicted in FIGS. 3A-3B, the end grips 400 are narrower than the perimeter edges 210. In some embodiments, as depicted in FIGS. 2A-2B, the end grips 400 may taper towards the interior from the outer width of the terminal drying panels 200. This tapering effect lends the mat an octagonal shape when viewed from above or below.

[0044] In some embodiments, as depicted in FIGS. 5A-7C, the mat can be folded, thereby allowing for both efficient storage and adaptability of the mat. As previously discussed, the connectors act as hinges that allow the drying panels to pivot relative to one another. The folding mechanism provides a user with the ability to manipulate the mat between fully expanded, fully stacked, and various embodiments in between.

[0045] In some embodiments, as depicted in FIG. 7A-7C, the mat 100 can be folded at its connectors 300 along a central axis, effectively folding it in half on top of itself into a three panel 200 wide formation. Such a fold could be advantageous when the drying needs are reduced or when space is at a premium. In some embodiments, as depicted in FIG. 5A-5C, the mat 100 can be folded at its connectors 300 into a compact, single panel 200, form through successive stacking of all the drying panels. In this formation, each panel 200 folds atop the preceding one, folding along a Z-like formation. In some embodiments, as depicted in FIG. 6A, the mat can be folded at its connectors 300 into two stacked panels 200. The variety of folding arrangements is not limited to those disclosed herein, and the panels of the mat can be folded into any arrangement permitted by the movement of the panels.

[0046] The ease of folding and the stability of this vertical alignment is aided by the alternating orientation of the edges, such that the shorter base of the trapezoidal edge folds neatly into the larger base of the adjacent trapezoidal edge. Stated differently, when folded, the outward facing perimeter edge 210a of one panel 200 aligns with the inward facing perimeter edge 210b of the adjacent panel 200, such that the protrusions 240 of the two panels interlock with one another. This concept is depicted in FIGS. 8-9, which depict cross-sectional lateral views of the mat 100 when folded. The figures depict how, when folded, the inward facing perimeter edge 210b of one of the panels 200 fits into the outward facing perimeter edge 210a of the partner panel 200. Additionally, the ribs 240 are arranged along each panel 200 such that they correspond to a non-rib, or open space, on the partner panel 200 when folded. The ribs 24are also tapered such that, when folded, they interlock with one another, thereby preventing the mat 100 from easily unfolding.

[0047] In some embodiments, as depicted in FIGS. 10A-11C, the drying mat 100 can be configured to adapt to various space constraints and drying needs. In some embodiments, drying panels can be folded into a triangular configuration, as depicted in FIGS. 10A-10B and 8B-8C. In some embodiments, two drying panels can be angled to form a triangular apex pointed upwards. In some embodiments, as depicted in FIGS. 10B and 11B, a third panel can be tucked underneath the apex, conserving space. The triangular shape allows for items to be placed on the drying mat at an angle, as depicted in FIGS. 11B-11C, thereby allowing more air to flow freely around the items, promoting faster drying. The subject matter disclosed herein is not limited to only folding into triangular shapes. Instead, the drying panels can be folded into any number of different shapes, including, for example, a square.

[0048] In some embodiments, the mat may be a cohesive entity, crafted from a single material. This unified construction may be helpful in achieving uniformity in material properties across the mat, providing consistent structural support and antimicrobial protection. In some embodiments, the mat may be at least two entities joined together.

[0049] In some embodiments, the mat is made from antimicrobial materials. In some embodiments, the mat is made from antimicrobial thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). In some embodiments, the mat is made from silicone materials. The choice of an antimicrobial material inhibits the growth of bacteria and mold, ensuring that the mat remains hygienic with reduced maintenance. The two materials presented above are examples and are not exhaustive.

[0050] The material of the mat is also selected for purposes of contributing to structural support and interlocking. The material provides sufficient friction between panels of the mat folded onto itself, to prevent unfolding, and between the mat and the surrounding environment, to prevent slippage.

[0051] In some embodiments, the foldable drying mat is comprised of a material with a non-slip texture. This texture is present across the drying panels and may extend to other components of the mat. The non-slip texture aids in firmly grounding the mat during use, thus preventing unwanted movement, sliding, or shifting that might otherwise occur due to the interaction with wet dishes, utensils, or other kitchen implements. Further, this feature can also enhance user safety by reducing the likelihood of accidents or spills that might stem from inadvertent movement of the mat during use.

Example Use Case

[0052] The following example use case describes how an example of a drying mat according to the present disclosure may be used. This section is intended solely for explanatory purposes and not for limitation.

[0053] An exemplary use case for the foldable drying mat involves a user who has completed washing a variety of kitchen items. The folding capabilities of the mat provide the user with a variety of usage scenarios tailored to their unique kitchen needs and spatial constraints. Depending on the quantity and size of the kitchen items to be dried, the user can adjust the mat into varying configurations.

[0054] Initially, the user can deploy the mat in a partially folded configuration, which is suitable for drying a modest number of items. This configuration allows for efficient space usage on limited countertop areas while providing adequate air circulation for quick drying. For instance, if there are only a few items to dry, the mat can be folded along its central axis to form a smaller, double-layered drying station. This configuration offers ample drying space for a modest number of items and occupies less counter space. It can be particularly advantageous in kitchens where space is at a premium or during times when the drying requirements are reduced.

[0055] When the drying needs increase, the user can unfold the mat into a fully expanded flat configuration. This elongated, flat surface, with its multiple drying panels, can accommodate larger items such as pots, pans, and multiple plates with ease, providing an extended continuous drying surface.

[0056] In alternative scenarios where countertop space is restricted, or to accommodate items that could benefit from angled drying, the user can fold the mat into a triangular shape. By angling two drying panels to form an apex, the mat can offer improved airflow around items angled against this apex, thereby allowing them to dry faster. Depending on the drying needs and space constraints, an additional panel can be tucked underneath the apex, minimizing the countertop footprint while capitalizing on the vertical space.

[0057] Additionally, the user can decide between using one side of the mat, with its linear protrusions, or the other side of the mat, with its lattice pattern, depending on their specific drying needs. For instance, the user may opt to utilize the side of the mat that features linear protrusions when dealing with larger dishes, platters, or kitchen implements. The linear protrusions serve to support these items, granting them additional stability while ensuring maximal air circulation for swift and efficient drying. The linear design also allows these larger items to bridge several protrusions, distributing weight and discouraging inadvertent tipping or rolling. In contrast, when the user needs to dry smaller items such as utensils, shot glasses, or smaller bowls, they can flip the mat to the side that features a lattice-patterned layout. This pattern, consisting of numerous smaller diamond-shaped protrusions arranged in a staggered manner, is ideal for providing support to smaller items and preventing them from falling over.

[0058] This design of the mat, with its raised edges and protrusions, may help water flow off and away from the items while remaining contained within the boundaries of the drying panels.

[0059] After the drying is complete, the user can take advantage of the mat's foldability. The connectors between drying panels allow the mat to be folded in to a compact, stacked configuration. This compact form is beneficial for storing the mat in narrow spaces. The connectors facilitate an intuitive and simple folding and unfolding mechanism, which may allow the mat to be quickly and easily re-deployed after storage.

[0060] The elements of the figures are not exclusive. Other embodiments may be derived in accordance with the principles of the invention to accomplish the same objectives. Although this invention has been described with reference to particular embodiments, it is to be understood that the embodiments and variations shown and described herein are for illustration purposes only. Modifications to the current design may be implemented by those skilled in the art, without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0061] While various illustrative embodiments incorporating the principles of the present teachings have been disclosed, the present teachings are not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Instead, this application is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the present teachings and use its general principles. Further, this application is intended to cover such departures from the present disclosure that are within known or customary practice in the art to which these teachings pertain.

[0062] In the above detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In the drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components, unless context dictates otherwise. The illustrative embodiments described in the present disclosure are not meant to be limiting. Other embodiments may be used, and other changes may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented herein. It will be readily understood that various features of the present disclosure, as generally described herein, and illustrated in the Figures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are explicitly contemplated herein.

[0063] The present disclosure is not to be limited in terms of the particular embodiments described in this application, which are intended as illustrations of various features. Many modifications and variations can be made without departing from its spirit and scope, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Functionally equivalent methods and apparatuses within the scope of the disclosure, in addition to those enumerated herein, will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing descriptions. It is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to particular methods, reagents, compounds, compositions or biological systems, which can, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting.

[0064] With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity.

[0065] It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein are generally intended as open terms (for example, the term including should be interpreted as including but not limited to, the term having should be interpreted as having at least, the term includes should be interpreted as includes but is not limited to, et cetera). While various compositions, methods, and devices are described in terms of comprising various components or steps (interpreted as meaning including, but not limited to), the compositions, methods, and devices can also consist essentially of or consist of the various components and steps, and such terminology should be interpreted as defining essentially closed-member groups.

[0066] As used in this document, the singular forms a, an, and the include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meanings as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. Nothing in this disclosure is to be construed as an admission that the embodiments described in this disclosure are not entitled to antedate such disclosure by virtue of prior invention.

[0067] In addition, even if a specific number is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (for example, the bare recitation of two recitations, without other modifiers, means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to at least one of A, B, and C, et cetera is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (for example, a system having at least one of A, B, and C would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, et cetera). In those instances where a convention analogous to at least one of A, B, or C, et cetera is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (for example, a system having at least one of A, B, or C would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, et cetera). It will be further understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, sample embodiments, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase A or B will be understood to include the possibilities of A or B or A and B.

[0068] Various of the above-disclosed and other features and functions, or alternatives thereof, may be combined into many other different systems or applications. Various presently unforeseen or unanticipated alternatives, modifications, variations or improvements therein may be subsequently made by those skilled in the art, each of which is also intended to be encompassed.