Drainage channel grates for athletic playing surfaces and associated methods
US5647689A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 6, 1995 |
| Grant date | Jul 15, 1997 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 6, 2015 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE01C13/08
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
An elongate grate capable of securing an edge portion of an artificial turf surface within a drainage channel is provided. The grate includes an elongate central portion defining a plurality of openings to permit runoff from the artificial turf surface to flow into the drainage channel. Connected to at least one exterior edge of the central portion is a downwardly extending wall portion being interior of the exterior edge for applying a downwardly directed engagement force to the edge portion of the artificial turf surface. According to another embodiment of the grate, an elongate slot is integrally defined in the central portion having a width such the edge portion of the artificial turf can be frictionally engaged therein. According to yet another embodiment, a grate is provided with a central portion positioned between opposed edge portions and defines a plurality of openings therein such that an impervious athletic surface can be formed over each of the edge portions. Associated methods of forming drainable athletic playing surfaces also form a part of the invention.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.