Patent ID: 9315949
Filing Date: 2016-04-19
CPC Classification: E01C,E04B

Claim Text:
1. A mat comprising a support core that includes a frame or ladder structure configured to support other components of the mat; upper and lower layers of elongated members attached to the core for protecting upper and lower surfaces of the core and for providing upper and lower surfaces of the mat; and bumpers provided at least upon longitudinal sides of the core to protect the core from damage due to transport or installation of the mat, wherein the bumpers are made of a plastic or elastomeric material and have a shape that provides an outer surface that extends beyond the frame or ladder structure and compression to absorb shock, wherein: when the longitudinal sides of the frame or ladder structure include an I-beam having a side facing open cavity, the bumpers are attached to the I-beam and fit in the I-beam cavity; or when the longitudinal sides of the frame or ladder structure provide a flat surface, the bumpers are positioned adjacent the longitudinal sides by additional members or lips that retain the bumpers in place.