Patent Publication Number: US-8966847-B2

Title: Floor mat system and divider for use therewith

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This is a Continuation-in-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/594,926, filed Aug. 27, 2012, the entire specification of which is incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Technical Field 
     This invention relates generally to flooring systems. More particularly, this invention relates to flooring systems that encompass two flooring surfaces that are butted up against each other along a joint. Specifically, this invention is directed to a flooring system and a divider used therewith to transition over the joint. The divider includes first and second members that are engaged with each other. The second member is permanently secured to a base surface beneath the two flooring surfaces. The first member is rotatable relative to the second member between a first position where it locks one of the flooring surfaces in place and a second position where it is disengaged from that flooring surface and the flooring surface may be removed for cleaning and/or replacement. 
     2. Background Information 
     It is frequently necessary to utilize more than one type of flooring in a building. Wherever two different types of flooring are laid adjacent each other in end-to-end relationship, there may be created an aesthetically displeasing joint between the flooring types. This is especially true of situations where one of the flooring types is raised relative to the other. 
     It is known in the art to place a transition piece between the two surfaces. Typically the transition piece will be permanently secured to a base surface, such as a concrete pad or wooden subfloor, in a gap between the two flooring surfaces. Each side of the transition may be butted up against an end of one of the flooring surfaces. Alternatively, one side of the transition may be butted up against an end of one of the flooring surfaces, and a region of the transition will overlap the end of the other flooring surface. Previously known devices have made it extremely difficult to remove one of the flooring surfaces, for cleaning purposes, for example. Instead, it has been necessary in the past to clean the flooring surfaces in situ. 
     There is therefore a need in the art for an improved transition device or divider for a flooring system that will enable the user to quickly and easily remove one of the flooring surfaces for cleaning or replacement, and which will enable that flooring surface to be easily reengaged in the flooring system when the cleaning is completed. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     A flooring system and a divider for use therewith. The divider transitions between a first and a second flooring surface and includes a first member and a second member that are snap-fittingly engageable with each other. The second member is permanently secured to a base surface upon which the first and second flooring surfaces are disposed. A protrusion from the first member is received in a recess in the second member. The protrusion has a curved terminal end which enables the first member to pivot relative to the second member. In a first position a lower surface of the first member is parallel to a lower surface of the second member. In a second position, the lower surface of the first member is angled relative to the lower surface of the second member. A second protrusion preferably extends outwardly from the first member and into a second recess in the second member. The first and second protrusions and recesses ensure that the first and second members securely engage each other. 
     A pair of arms or flanges extends outwardly in opposite directions from a central base region on the first member. In one embodiment, the arms/flanges are of the same length and are disposed generally at right angles to the protrusions. In another embodiment a leg extends downwardly from a longer one of the arms/flanges to provide extra support to that arm/flange. The arms/flanges extend laterally outwardly beyond a side surface of the second member when the first and second members are engaged. The arms/flanges abut the upper surface of the adjacent one of the first and second flooring surfaces. This engagement substantially prevents the one of the first and second flooring surfaces from being lifted off the base surface and also hides the join between the divider and that flooring surface. When the first member is moved to the second position, the arm/flange no longer engages the flooring surface adjacent the one end of the divider. Consequently, that adjacent flooring surface may be removed from the base surface. When the cleaned flooring surface is placed back onto the base surface, the first member is rotated back to the first position so that the flange once again secures it against movement. 
     In accordance with one aspect of the invention, the flooring system comprises:
         a first flooring surface that is adapted to be positioned upon a base surface;   a second flooring surface adapted to be positioned on the base surface in end-to-end relationship with the first flooring surface and separated therefrom by a gap; and   a divider positionable in the gap to provide a transition from the first flooring surface to the second flooring surface; and wherein the divider comprises:
           a first member; and   a second member adapted to be secured to the base surface; wherein the first member is releasably securable to the second member.   
               

     In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the flooring system comprises:
         a first flooring surface adapted to be positioned upon a base surface;   a second flooring surface adapted to be positioned on the base surface in end-to-end relationship with the first flooring surface and separated therefrom by a gap; and   a divider kit for transitioning the gap between the first and second flooring surfaces; and wherein the kit comprises:
           a plurality of first members, each of the first members having a different cross-sectional shape;   a second member adapted to be secured to the base surface; wherein one of the plurality of first members is selected for engagement with the second member to suit the first and second flooring surfaces to be installed on the base surface; and wherein the selected one of the first members is releasably securable to the second member.   
               

    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS 
       A preferred embodiment of the invention, illustrated of the best mode in which Applicant contemplates applying the principles, is set forth in the following description and is shown in the drawings and is particularly and distinctly pointed out and set forth in the appended claims. 
         FIG. 1  is a top view of a flooring system incorporating the divider in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 2  is a cross-sectional side view of the floor system taken through line  2 - 2  of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  is a side view of a first embodiment of the divider shown detached from the floor system of  FIG. 2 , and showing a first member and a second member thereof in an engaged position; 
         FIG. 4  is a side view of the first member of the divider; 
         FIG. 5  is a side view of the second member of the divider; 
         FIG. 6  is an enlarged view of the first highlighted region of  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 7  is an enlarged side view of the second highlighted region of  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 8  is a cross-sectional side view of the floor system showing the divider moved to a disengaged position so that a floor mat may be removed from the system; 
         FIG. 9  is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of the highlighted region of  FIG. 8 ; 
         FIG. 10  is a side view of second embodiment of a divider in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 11  is a cross-sectional side view of a floor system including a third embodiment of a divider in accordance with an aspect of the present invention; and 
         FIG. 12  is a cross-section side view of a floor system including a fourth embodiment of a divider in accordance with an aspect of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     Similar numbers refer to similar parts throughout the drawings. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1 and 2  there is shown a floor system in accordance with the present invention, generally indicated at  10 . Floor system  10  comprises a first flooring surface  12  and a second flooring surface  14  that are disposed in adjacent end-to-end relationship with each other, and a divider  16  that transitions a gap between the two surfaces together. Each of the first and second flooring surfaces  12 ,  14  is positioned on top of a base surface  18  that does not form part of the floor system  10 . The base surface  18  comprises a concrete pad or wooden subfloor, for example and, preferably, divider  16  is placed directly onto upper surface  18   a  ( FIG. 2 ) of base surface  18 . It will be understood, however, that alternatively, divider  16  may be placed at least partially within a groove (not shown) formed in upper surface  18   a  of base surface  18 . In the latter instance, the upper surface  22   a  of second member  22  of divider  16  may sit substantially flush with upper surface  18   a  or may extend for a distance either above or below upper surface  18   a.    
     In accordance with a specific feature of the present invention, first and second flooring surfaces  12 ,  14  are dissimilar from each other in one or more respects. For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 2 , first floor surface  12  comprises a rubber mat and second floor surface  14  comprises a carpet. First and second floor surfaces  12 ,  14  may be made of the same materials but may of different thicknesses or heights relative to base surface  18 . 
     In accordance with yet another specific feature of the present invention, divider  16  comprises a first member  20  and a second member  22  that are interlockingly engaged with each other. First member  20  is an elongate member having a first end  20   a  and second end  20   b . First member  20  includes an elongate base  24 , a first protrusion  26 , and a second protrusion  28 . Base  24  has a top surface  24   a , a bottom surface  24   b , a first end  24   c , a second end  24   d , a first side  24   e  ( FIG. 2 ) and a second side  24   f . First and second ends  24   c ,  24   d  form first and second ends  20   a ,  20   b  of first member  20 . 
     As best seen in  FIG. 4 , base  24  is not the same thickness between first side  24   e  and second side  24   f . Instead, base  24  is of a first thickness  71 ″ at first side  24   e  and is of a second thickness  72 ″ at second side  24   f . First protrusion  26  and second protrusion  28  extend outwardly away from bottom surface  24   b  and are spaced laterally from each other along bottom surface  24   b . First and second protrusions  26 ,  28  are generally parallel to each other and are disposed at right angles to bottom surface  24   b  of base  24 . In accordance with a specific feature of the present invention, first and second protrusions  26 ,  28  preferably run the entire length “L” of base  24 , from first end  24   c  to second end  24   d . Preferably, first and second protrusions  26 ,  28  are substantially continuous along the length “L”. It will be understood however that first and second protrusions  26 ,  28  could be sectioned into smaller, spaced apart first and second protrusion elements that are disposed along the length of base  24  without departing from the scope of the present invention. In that instance, each of the first and second protrusion elements would be of a substantially reduced length relative to length “L” and the elements would preferably be aligned with each other along the length “L”, although staggering them across the width “W 1 ” ( FIG. 2 ) would also be possible. 
     Base  24  is of a substantially constant thickness “T 2 ” from second side  24   f  through to the first side surface  28   a  of second protrusion  28 . Beyond first side surface  28   a  the thickness of base  24  tapers gently until it is of a thickness “T 1 ”. The portion of base  24  which extends between first side surface  28   a  of second protrusion  28  and first side  24   e  forms a flange  30 , the purpose of which will be described further herein. As is evident from  FIG. 4 , flange  30  tends to angle downwardly away from a plane aligned with top surface  24   a  of base to the degree that first side  24   e  of base  24  is disposed a distance “D 2 ” from the plane aligned with first side  24   e . Flange  30  is also tapered from adjacent second protrusion  28  to first side  24   e.    
     Referring to  FIG. 4 , it may be seen that first protrusion  26  is spaced a first distance “D 1 ” inwardly from second side  24   f  of base  24  and includes a stem  32  and a terminal end  34 . Stem  32  extends outwardly from bottom wall  24   b  of base  24  and terminal end  34  is disposed remote from bottom wall  24   b . Stem  32  has a first side surface  32   a  and a second side surface  32   b . First side surface  32   a  defines a notch  36  in a location adjacent terminal end  34 . Second side surface  32   b  of stem is substantially straight and unbroken. Terminal end  34  has a curved peripheral surface and first member  20  pivots on this curved surface when it is moved between the first and second positions, as will be hereinafter described. Preferably, terminal end  34  is generally circular in cross-sectional shape and the diameter of terminal end  34  is greater than the width of stem  32  between first and second side surfaces  32   a ,  32   b.    
     Second protrusion  28  has a first side surface  28   a  and a second side surface  28   b . Second protrusion  28  terminates in a tip  38  comprised of a first flange  38   a  and a second flange  38   b  which are mirror images of each other. First flange  38   a  extends outwardly from second protrusion  28  in a first direction and second flange  38   b  extends outwardly from second protrusion  28  in a second direction. A slot  40  is defined between first and second flanges  38   a ,  38   b  and slot  40  is oriented substantially at right angles to lower surface  24   b  of base  24 . Flanges  38   a ,  38   b  each extend for a distance outwardly beyond the associated one of first and second side surfaces  28   a ,  28   b . First flange  38   a  is provided with a first curved outer surface  38   c  and a shoulder  38   e . Second flange  38   b  is provided with a second curved surface  38   d  and a shoulder  38   f . Curved outer surfaces  38   c ,  38   d  aid in helping first member  20  to rotate relative to second member  22 , as will be hereinafter described. Shoulders  38   e ,  38   f , are positioned adjacent the respective one of first and second side surfaces  28   a ,  28   b  and are disposed generally at right angles thereto. 
       FIG. 4  shows that first side surface  28   a  of second protrusion  28  is substantially flat between its origin in lower surface  24   b  of base and where it joins shoulder  38   e . Second side surface  28   b  includes a notch  42  defined approximately halfway between second side surface  2813 &#39;s origin in lower surface  24   b  of base  24  and its termination in shoulder  38   f.    
       FIG. 5  shows second member  22  in greater detail. It will be understood that second member  22  preferably is configured to have a length “L” that is substantially equal to that of first member  20  and has ends (not shown) that are substantially aligned with ends  20   a ,  20   b . Preferably, second member is substantially continuous between first and second ends  20   a ,  20   b . It will, however, be understood that smaller individual second member sections (not shown) may be placed in spaced apart longitudinal alignment with each other to engage a substantially continuous first member  20  of length “L”. The arrangement of first and second protrusions  26 ,  28  and recesses in second member  22  that will be described hereafter may be of a variety of configurations but the configuration in first member  20  and second member  22  is complementary. 
     Second member  22  comprises an upper surface  22   a , a lower surface  22   b , a first side  22   c  and a second side  22   d . First side  22   c  is of a first height “H 1 ” and second side  22   d  is of a second height “H 2 ”. As is evident from  FIG. 5 , second height “H 2 ” preferably is smaller than first height “H 1 ” and upper surface  22   a  therefore slopes downward from first side  22   c  to second side  22   d . This difference in height aids in permitting first member  20  to pivot relative to second member  22 . First and second sides  22   c ,  22   d  preferably are disposed substantially at right angles to lower surface  22   b.    
     In accordance with a specific feature of the present invention second member  22  defines a first, second and third recess  44 ,  48 , and  46  in upper surface  22   a . First recess  44  is configured to be substantially complementary to first protrusion  26  on first member  20 . First recess  44  is substantially identically shaped to first protrusion  26  and includes a stem channel  44   a  and a terminal end channel  44   b . Stem channel  44   a  differs from stem  32  by including a face  50  that is disposed at a first angle greater than 90° relative to lower surface  22   b . The first angle preferably is about 100° relative to lower surface  22   b . This face  50  provides for easier insertion of first protrusion into first recess and easier removal therefrom, as will be hereinafter described. Face  50  also is angled to enable first member  20  to pivot relative to second member  22 . A detent  52  extends into first recess  44  in a location that corresponds to notch  36  in first protrusion  26 . Detent  52  is engaged in notch  36  to interlockingly secure first protrusion  26  in first notch  44  and thereby lock first member  20  to second member  22  and prevent their disengagement. Detent  52  is engaged in notch  36  when first member  20  is in a first position substantially parallel to lower surface  22   b  of second member  22 . Detent  52  is disengaged from notch  36  when first member  20  is moved to a second position where first member  20  is pivoted so as to be disposed at an angle relative to lower surface  22   b  of second member  22 . The wall defining first recess  44  includes a curved bottom surface that is complementary to terminal end  34  on first protrusion  26 . This curvature enables first member  20  to pivot relative to second member  22 . When first member  20  is in the second position it may be completely detached from second member  22  by pulling first member  20  outwardly away from second member  22 , as will be hereinafter described. It will be understood that the detent  52  may be formed on the first protrusion  26  and the notch  36  defined in the wall which defines first recess  44  without departing from the scope of the present invention. 
     Second recess  48  is configured to be substantially complementary to second protrusion  28  on first member  20 . Second recess  48  is defined by the surrounding wall of second member  22  to have a first face  54  that will engage first side surface  28   a  of second protrusion  28  and a second face  56  that will engage second surface  28   b  of second protrusion  28 . First face  54  includes a first section  54   a , a first detent  54   b , a first notch  54   c , a second detent  54   d , a second notch  54   e , a third detent  54   f  and a fourth notch  54   g . First section  54   a  is disposed generally perpendicular to lower surface  22   b  and parallel to first side  22   c  of second member  22 . Fourth notch  54   g  is substantially complementary shaped to first flange  38   a  of second protrusion  38   a . The arrangement of first, second and third detents  54   b ,  54   d , and  54   f  is such that their upper surfaces slope downwardly so as to guide second protrusion  28  deeper into second recess  48  when first and second members  20 ,  22  are engaged with each other. The curvature of the lower surfaces of first, second, and third detents  54   b ,  54   d , and  54   f  is such that they tend to guide first flange  38   a  into the adjacent respective one of the first and second notches  54   c ,  54   e  when second protrusion  28  with withdrawn from second recess  48 . 
     Second face  56  of second recess  48  is configured to include a first face  56   a , a first detent  56   b , a first notch  56   c , a second detent  56   d , a second notch  56   e , a third detent  56   f , and a third notch  56   g . First face  56   a  is disposed at a second angle relative to lower surface  22   b . The second angle is about 110° relative to lower surface  22   b . Again, first face  56   a  is disposed at the second angle so that second protrusion  28  may slide easily into second recess  48  and may be relatively easily withdrawn therefrom. First, second, and third detents,  56   b ,  56   d , and  56   f  have upper surfaces that slope downwardly toward lower surface  22   b  and thereby tend to guide second protrusion  28  deeper into second recess  48 . First, second and third detents  56   b ,  56   d , and  56   e  have lower surfaces that slope upwardly and thereby tend to guide the shoulder regions  38   e ,  38   f  of first and second flanges  38   a ,  38   b  into second and first notches  56   e ,  56   c  as second protrusion  28  is withdrawn from second recess  48 . Third notch  56   g  is substantially complementary in shape to second flange  38   b.    
     In accordance with a specific feature of the present invention, first notches  54   b ,  56   b  are offset vertically relative to each other by a small distance. Similarly, first detents  54   c ,  56   c  are offset vertically relative to each other; second notches  54   c ,  56   c  are offset vertically relative to each other; second detents  54   d ,  56   d  are offset vertically relative to each other by a smaller distance, and third detents  54   f ,  56   f  are substantially vertically and horizontally aligned with each other. This arrangement enables the pivoting motion of first member  20  to occur. Additionally, the configuration of the bottom region of second recess  48  is such that first and second flanges  38   a ,  38   b  are not tightly retained therein but, instead, first and second flanges  38   a ,  38   b  are free to move within this bottom region when first member  20  is pivoted between the first and second positions. 
     When second protrusion  28  is moved into or withdrawn from second recess  48  when first and second members  20 ,  22  are engaged or disengaged, first and second flanges  38   a ,  38   b  flex inwardly toward each other as they sequentially encounter first detents  54   b ,  56   b ; second detents  54   d ,  56   d ; and third detents  54   f ,  56   f . This is made possible by the presence of slot  40  between first and second flanges  38   a ,  38   b . Once flanges  38   a ,  38   b  clear the detents, they tend to spring back to their original position and become locked into the adjacent notches. So, for example, when second protrusion  28  is moved into second recess  48  and flanges  38   a ,  38   b  clear second detents  54   d ,  56   d , the flanges will spring outwardly away from each other and become engaged in second notches  54   e ,  56   e . When flanges  38   a ,  38   b  subsequently clear third detents  54   f ,  56   f  they will spring outwardly away from each other and become engaged in third notches  54   g ,  56   g . When second protrusion  28  is withdrawn from second recess  48  and flanges  38   a ,  38   b  clear third detents  54   f ,  56   f  they will become engaged in second notches  54   e ,  56   e ; and when they clear second detents  54   d ,  56   d  they will become engaged in first notches  54   c ,  56   c.    
     It should be noted that when second protrusion  28  is withdrawn from second recess  48  it has to be tilted at an angle to clear the various detents. This angular arrangement is facilitated by the offset arrangement between the pairs of detents  54   b ,  56   b ;  54   d ,  56   d ; and  54   f ,  56   f  and the pairs of notches  54   c ,  56   c  and  54   e ,  56   e . The angular orientation of face  56   a  also ensures that second protrusion  28  is able to rotate through the required angle to disengage it from second recess  48 . 
     Third recess  46  is defined by two faces  58 ,  60  that are mirror images of each other. First face  58  includes a first section  58   a , a second section  58   b , and a third section  58   c . First section  58   a  is disposed substantially at right angles to lower surface  22   b  and parallel to each of first and second sides  22   c ,  22   d  of second member  22 . Second section  58   b  preferably is disposed at an angle of about 60° relative to first section  58   a  although other angles are possible. Third section  58   c  is disposed substantially parallel to lower surface  22   c  and at right angles to first section  58   a . Second face  60  has a first section  60   a  that corresponds to first section  58   a ; a second section  60   b  that corresponds to second section  58   b ; and a third section  60   c  that corresponds to third section  58   c . Thus, third sections  58   c ,  60   c  are horizontally aligned with each other and second sections  58   b ,  60   b  flare outwardly away from each other. A divot  62  is defined between third section  58   c  and third section  60   c . Third recess  46  is generally U-shaped in cross-section when viewed from one or the other ends of second member  22 . This configuration enables the walls  64 ,  66  to flex slightly into third recess  46  when first and second protrusions  26 ,  28  are engaged in first and third recess  44 ,  48  and are removed therefrom. 
       FIG. 3  shows first member  20  engaged with second member  22 . As is evident from this figure, first protrusion  26  is received within first recess  44  in such a way that terminal end  34  substantially fully occupies channel  44   b , and detent  52  on stem  32  is interlockingly engaged with notch  36 . It should be noted that a first gap  68  is defined between face  50  and second side surface  32   b  of stem  32 . A second gap  70  is defined between bottom surface  24   b  of base  24  and top end  72  of second member  22 . Second protrusion  28  is engaged in second recess  48  such that first and second flanges  38   a ,  38   b  are disposed in the lowermost region  48   a  of second recess  48 . Shoulders  38   e  and  38   f  are interlockingly engaged with second detents  54   f ,  56   e.    
     Flooring system  10  including divider  16  is installed and used in the following manner. First and second flooring surfaces  12 ,  14  are installed on base surface  18  by any suitable known methods. A gap  72  ( FIG. 2 ) is left between first and second flooring surfaces  12 ,  14 . Preferably gap  72  is substantially complementary in size to the width “W” of second member  22 . (Width “W” is measured between first and second sides  22   c ,  22   d .) Second member  22  is then ready to be position within gap  72 . When this is done, the installer must take notice of which of the two flooring surfaces  12 ,  14  is lower in height relative to base surface  18 . Second member  22  is then oriented so that first side  22   c  is disposed adjacent the lower height flooring surface. In  FIG. 2 , for example, first flooring surface  12  is slightly lower in height relative to second flooring surface  14 . First side  22   c  is therefore positioned adjacent first flooring surface  12 . Fasteners  74  are inserted into third recess  46 , and are screwed through a portion of wall  76 , and into base surface  18 . Fasteners  74  are screwed into base surface  18  at intervals along length “L” of second member  22 . It will be understood that any suitable type of fastener may be used for this purpose. A fastener that is configured to be complementary to at least a portion of the shape of third recess  46  is particularly desirable. Still further, third recess  46  preferably is a counterbore hole so that fastener  74  is disposed either flush with or beneath the upper surface of second member  22 . It will further be understood that any type of mechanism other than fasteners which is able to releasably secure second member  22  to base surface  18  may be utilized without departing from the scope of the present invention. 
     First member  20  is then snap-fittingly engaged with second member  22  by positioning first protrusion  26  in the mouth of first recess  44  and second protrusion  28  in the mouth of second recess  48 . First member  20  is pushed downwardly in the direction of arrow “A” ( FIG. 2 ) to cause first and second protrusions  26 ,  28  to move through first and third recesses  44 ,  48  until the bottom ends  27 ,  29  thereof reach the bottom ends of the associated recesses. When first member  20  is thus engaged with second member  22 , flange  30  extends for a distance along the upper surface  12   a  of first flooring surface  12  and coverers any gap between edge  12   b  of flooring surface  12  and first side  22   c  of second member  22 . First side  24   e  of first member  20  rests on upper surface  12   a  of first flooring surface  12  and retains first flooring surface  12  in place and prevents it from being lifted from base surface  18 . Additionally, second side  24   f  of first member  20  projects for a short distance beyond first edge  14   a  of second flooring surface  14  and covers any gap between first edge  14   a  and second side  22   d  of second member  22 . As shown in  FIG. 2 , because of the height of second flooring surface  14 , second side  24   e  of first member  20  tends to abut first edge  14   a . First member  20  projects for a small distance above the upper surfaces  12   a ,  14   b  of first and second flooring surfaces  12 ,  14  and provides a gently sloped and more aesthetically appealing transition between these two surfaces than would be the case if divider  16  was not used. Additionally, if the size of gap  72  between first and second floor surfaces  12 ,  14  is of an uneven width along its length, divider  16  hides this issue. 
     If at some later stage the first flooring surface  12 , which is a rubber mat, must be removed for cleaning or for replacement, first member  20  may be quickly and easily disengaged to a sufficient degree to enable first flooring surface  12  to be lifted off base surface  18 . This disengagement may be partial, such as in  FIG. 8  or complete such as in  FIGS. 4 and 5 . If first member  20  of divider  16  becomes damaged then first member  20  would be completely detached from second member  22  and would be replaced with another first member. 
     The partial disengagement of first member  20  from second member  22  is shown in  FIG. 8 . This figure shows first member  20  rotated from a first position where it is substantially parallel to lower surface  22   b  of second member  22 , to a second position where it is disposed at an angle relative thereto. The rotation is accomplished by engaging flange  30  and lifting it upwardly in the direction of arrow “B”. This rotational or pivotal motion causes second side surface  32   b  of stem  32  on first protrusion  26  to move into engagement with face  50  and causes second side surface  28   b  of second protrusion  28  to move into engagement with face  56   a . Rotation in the direction of arrow “B” also causes first and second flanges  38   a ,  38   b  on second protrusion  28  to progressively move from third notches  54   g ,  56   g  to second notches  54   e ,  56   e , to first notches  54   c ,  56   c  (as shown in  FIG. 9 ). As may be noted from  FIG. 8 , when first member  20  is rotated in the direction of arrow “B” the detent  52  on wall  66  becomes disengaged from notch  36 . First member  20  is then retained at an angle relative to lower surface  22   b  and base surface  18 . This angle is sufficient to permit first flooring surface  12  to be lifted from base surface  18  in the direction of arrow “C”. A cleaned first flooring surface  12  or a new flooring surface (not shown) may then be positioned in the appropriate location on base surface  18  so that an edge thereof abuts first side  22   c  of second member  22 . First member  20  is then snapped back into engagement with second member  22  by pushing it downwardly on a region generally above second protrusion  28 . This downwardly directed force causes first member  20  to rotate in the opposite direction of arrow “B” until flange  30  on first member  20  comes to rest on the upper surface  12   a  of the cleaned first flooring surface  12 . First flooring surface  12  is then substantially prevented from being disengaged from divider  16 .  FIG. 8  therefore shows divider  16  in an unlocked position and  FIG. 2  shows divider  2  in a locked position. 
     If it is first member  20  itself which must be replaced, when second protrusion  28  disengages from second recess  48 , first protrusion  26  may be easily withdrawn from first recess  44  by simply pulling first member  20  outwardly in a direction indicated by arrow “D” ( FIG. 8 ). A replacement first member (not shown) may then be engaged with second member  22  in the same manner as described above with reference to first member  20 . Second member  22  remains secured to base surface  18  at all times during these operations. 
       FIG. 10  shows a second embodiment of a divider that may be utilized in a floor system in accordance with the present invention. The second embodiment of the divider is indicated by reference number  116 . Divider  116  includes a third member  120  and the second member  22 . Second member  22  is the identical member to that used in divider  16 . Third member  120  is configured to matingly engage second member  22  when first member  20  is detached therefrom. This scenario would occur if there is a need to transition between two flooring surfaces other than first and second flooring surfaces  12 ,  14 . So, for example, second flooring surface  14  is disposed on one side of divider  116  and a flooring surface (not shown) other than first flooring surface  12  is disposed on the opposite side of divider  116 . Divider  116  may be used when there is a greater height differential between the two flooring surfaces. In this instance, since second member  22  is permanently secured to base surface  18 , first member  20  is disengaged from second member  22  and is replaced by third member  120 . 
     In accordance with a specific feature of the present invention, divider  116  includes a base  124  that differs in cross-sectional shape from that of base  24 . Base  124  has an upper surface  124   a , a lower surface  124   b , a first and second end (not shown), a first side  124   e , and a second side  124   f . A first protrusion  126  and a second protrusion  128  extend outwardly away from lower surface  124   b . First protrusion  126  is substantially identical to first protrusion  26  and second protrusion  128  is substantially identical to second protrusion  28  in both structure and function. Base  124  is substantially wedge-shaped in cross-section with first side  124   e  being of a height “H 3 ” and second side  124   f  being of a second height “H 4 ”. The majority of upper surface  124   a  (except for region  125 ) is disposed at an angle “E” relative to lower surface  124   b . Additionally, a portion of lower surface  124   b  extends beyond each of first and second sides  22   c ,  22   d  of second member  22  for about the same distance “D 3 ”. Thus, the portions of lower surface  124   b  overhang regions of the base surface (not shown) to which second member  22  is secured. An edge region of each of the flooring surfaces disposed over the regions of the base surface will therefore be partially covered by those overhanging portions of lower surface  124   b . Thus, divider  116  covers the edges of the two flooring surfaces and makes the transition between them more aesthetically appealing. The engagement of third member  120  with second member  22  and the disengagement therefrom is substantially identical to the engagement and disengagement of first and second members  20 ,  22 . 
     It will be understood that the cross-sectional configuration of the first member  20  or third member  120  may be altered to suit any pair of flooring surfaces that may be incorporated into a floor system. Thus, the first member may have different cross-sectional shapes from those shown in  FIGS. 2 and 10  without departing from the scope of the present invention. Additionally or alternatively, differently configured first and second protrusions  26 ,  28 ,  126 ,  128  may be provided on the first member and complementary configured first and third recesses  44 ,  48 / 44 ,  48  may be defined in the second member  22 / 22  without department from the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, portions of the first member may overhang sides  22   c ,  22   d / 22   c , and  22   d  of second member  22 / 22  to varying degrees and in different ways without departing from the scope of the present invention. 
     It will further be understood that flooring system  10  may include a divider kit comprised of a plurality of differently configured first members that are provided in combination with one single second member. This kit will enable an installer to select the most appropriate one of the differently configured first members for a particular flooring solution. Thus, in accordance with the present invention the flooring system  10  includes: 
     a first flooring surface  12  that is positioned upon a base surface  18 ; 
     a second flooring surface  14  positioned on base surface  18  in end-to-end relationship with first flooring surface  12  and separated therefrom by a gap  72 ; and 
     a divider kit for transitioning gap  72  between first and second flooring surfaces  12 ,  14 ; and wherein the kit comprises:
         a plurality of first members  20 ,  120 , each of first members  20 ,  120  having a different cross-sectional shape;   a second member  22  adapted to be secured to base surface  18 ; wherein one of the plurality of first members  20 ,  120  is selected for engagement with second member  22  to suit first and second flooring surfaces  12 ,  14  to be installed on base surface  18 ; and wherein the selected one of first members  20 ,  120  is releasably securable to second member  22  and is rotatable between a first position where it is disposed substantially parallel to a lower surface  22   b  of second member  22 , and a second position where it is disposed at an angle relative to lower surface  22   b  of second member  22 .       

     It will further be understood that the first and second members  20 ,  22 / 120 ,  22  may be made of the same material or may be made from different materials. For example, both of the first and second members may be made from plastic or metal, or, one of the first and second members may be made from plastic and the other from metal, without departing from the scope of the present invention. Preferably, second member  22  is manufactured from a metal, such as extruded aluminum, and first member  20 / 120  is manufactured from extruded vinyl. The second member  22  preferably is made from metal as this material is more durable than other materials. 
     It will be understood that when divider  16 / 116  has been installed on base surface  18  it may be a permanent fixture and does not need to be rotatable. Second embodiment of divider, i.e., divider  22  is of this type of configuration. Divider  22  can, however, be rotated by applying an upward force on the region of first member  120  overhanging first side  22   c  of second member. 
     It will further be understood that while dividers  16 / 116  have been described as being used for transitioning between a first flooring surface and a second flooring surface, dividers  16 / 116  may be used in many applications where a transition between adjacent first and second substantially planar surfaces is needed. For example, dividers  16 / 116  may be used as transitions between two wall coverings between two fabric coverings, without departing from the scope of the invention. 
     It will further be understood that the protrusions  26 ,  28  may be formed on the upper surface of the second member  22  and the complementary recesses  44 ,  48  be defined in the lower surface of the first member  20  without departing from the scope of the invention. In this latter instance the third recess  46  would remain defined in the second member  22  and between the two protrusions as the third recess  46  receives a fastener  74  to secure the second member  22  to base surface  18 . 
     It will be still further understood that while it has been disclosed herein that the first member is rotatable between a first position where it is disposed substantially parallel to a lower surface of the second member, and a second position where it is disposed at an angle relative to the lower surface of the second member, the first member may be rotated through three or more positions relative to the lower surface of the second member. At each additional position, the first member will be disposed at a different angle relative to the lower surface of the second member. These additional positions of the first member could be utilized to accommodate a variety of different thickness first and second surfaces. 
     Referring to  FIG. 11  there is shown a floor system which includes a third embodiment of a divider in accordance with an aspect of the present invention, generally indicated at  216 . Divider  216  is substantially identical to divider  16  in that it is configured to span the gap between two different flooring surfaces  12  and  14 . 
     Divider  216  comprises a first member  220  and a second member that preferably are snap-fittingly and releasably engageable with each other in much the same manner as divider  16 . The second member of divider  216  is identical to divider  22  and is thus numbered accordingly. No further description or explanation will be provided as relating to this second member. 
     First member  220  is an elongate member that is similar in appearance from above to first member  20  as shown in  FIG. 1 . First member  220  includes an elongate base  224 , a first protrusion  226 , and a second protrusion  228 . Base  224  has a top surface  224   a , a bottom surface  224   b , a first end and a second end (not shown in  FIG. 11  but substantially identical to first and second ends  24   c ,  24   d ), a first side  224   e  and a second side  224   f . The first and second ends of the base  224  form the first and second ends of first member  220 . 
     In accordance with a first aspect of the invention, base  224  includes a base region of a first thickness “T 3 ” which extends between first and second protrusions  226 ,  228  and terminates generally in alignment with their outermost surfaces (i.e., the respective surfaces closest to first and second sides  224   e ,  224   f ). The portion of base  224  disposed between first protrusion  226  and second side  224   f  is thinner than the thick base region and comprises a first arm  231  on base  224 . The portion of base  224  disposed between second protrusion  228  and first side  224   e  is substantially identical in appearance to the first ami  231  and comprises a second arm  230  on base  224 . 
     By way of explanation, the components  231 ,  230  being referred to in this portion of the description as “arms” were previously referred to in this specification as “flanges” ® such as flanges  30 ,  31 ,  130  and  131 . It will be understood that whether the term “arm” or “flange” is utilized when discussing the components  31 ,  30 ,  131 ,  130 ,  231 ,  230 , or  331 ,  330  (following)—the component still performs the same function of holding down the adjacent flooring surface  12 ,  14  and hiding the join between the flooring surface and the divider. In particular, if any screws or the like or aluminum edge pieces are present at the edges of the flooring surfaces  12 ,  14 , then the dividers  16 ,  116 ,  216  and, and will be described later herein  316 , aid in hiding those screws or edge pieces, and thereby present a more aesthetically pleasing end product. 
     It should be noted that the components  231 ,  230  are referred to in this latter portion of the described as “arms” in order to more clearly distinguish them from the flanges at the terminal ends of first and second protrusion  226 ,  228 . 
     The first and second arms  231 ,  230  extend outwardly from the thicker region in opposite directions to each other. First and second arms  231 ,  230  are also oriented generally at right angles to first and second protrusions  226 ,  228 . Furthermore, first and second arms  231 ,  230  are of a substantially identical length to each other and taper from the thicker base region to the thinner first and second sides  224   f ,  224   e.    
     In accordance with another aspect of the invention, at least one and preferably several ridges  225  are provided on top surface  224   a  of base  224 . Ridges  225  preferably are disposed spaced apart and substantially parallel to each other and are provided both on the thicker part of base  224  and on the first and second arms  231 ,  230  thereof. Ridges  225  provide a gripping surface or tread on divider  216 . It will be understood that instead of being spaced apart and parallel, ridges  225  may be in any other desired pattern or configuration that will provide the desired gripping surface or tread on first member  220 . 
     First protrusion  226  and second protrusion  228  extend outwardly away from bottom surface  224   b  of base  224  and are spaced laterally from each other along bottom surface  224   b . First and second protrusions  226 ,  228  are generally parallel to each other and are disposed at right angles to bottom surface  224   b  of base  224 . 
     First protrusion  226  is similar to first protrusion  26  in that it is spaced inwardly from second side  224   f  of base  224  and includes a stem  232  and a terminal end  234 . Stem  232  extends outwardly from bottom wall  224   b  of base  224  and terminal end  234  is disposed remote from bottom wall  224   b . Stem  232  is substantially identical in structure to stem  32  and functions in the same manner. Terminal end  234  has a curved peripheral surface and first member  220  pivots on this curved surface when it is moved between the first and second positions in the same manner as described with reference to first member  20 . Preferably, terminal end  234  is generally circular in cross-sectional shape and the diameter of terminal end  234  is greater than the width of stem  232 . Terminal end  234  differs from terminal end  34  in that it defines a slot  235  therein. Slot  235  therefore effectively divides terminal end  234  into two flanges which are able to flex somewhat relative to each other as divider  216  is used. The presence of slot  235  therefore makes it easier to insert first protrusion  226  into first aperture  44  and to rotate terminal end  234  therein during use of first member  220 . 
     Second protrusion  228  is substantially identical in structure and function to second protrusion  28 . Second protrusion terminates in a tip  238  which defines a slot  240  therein. Tip  238  is comprised of first and second flanges which are substantially identical to first flange  38   a  and second flange  38   b . Slot  240  is defined between the first and second flanges and this slot  240  is oriented substantially at right angles to lower surface  224   b  of base  224 . It should be noted that slot  235  in first protrusion  226  is substantially parallel to slot  240 . Slots  235  and  240  are aligned with the longitudinal axis of first member (where the longitudinal axis extends between the first and second ends of first member  220 ). 
     In accordance with an aspect of the invention, second protrusion  228  has a length measured from lower surface  224   b  of the base region of base  224  to a bottom  229  of the free end of second protrusion  228 . Each of the first and second arms  231 ,  230  is of approximately the same length where their length is measured from where they join the base region of base  224  to their respective outermost tips (which coincide with first and second sides  224   e ,  224   f ). It will be understood that the arms join the base region generally in the area that aligns with the outermost surfaces of first and second protrusions  226 ,  228 . In accordance with an aspect of the invention, the length of each of first and second arms  231 ,  230  is approximately equal to the length of second protrusion  228 . Furthermore, when first member  220  is engaged with second member  222 , approximately three-quarters of the length of each of first and second arms  231 ,  230  extends beyond a respective side  22   d ,  22   c  of second member  22 . 
     First member  220  is used in substantially the same manner as first member  20  except that when first member  220  is engaged in second member  222 , the first arm  231  extends for a distance over upper surface  14   b  of second flooring surface  14  and beyond the edge  14   a  thereof. Furthermore, first arm  231  extends for a substantial distance beyond second side  22   d  of second member  22 . This distance is only slightly smaller than the overall length of first arm  231  as measured between first protrusion  226  and second side  224   f . In the first embodiment of divider  16 , the second side  24   f  of first member  20  is more-or-less vertically aligned with second side  22   d  of second member  22 .) First arm  231  therefore extends further over the upper surface  14   b  of second flooring surface  14  and beyond the edge  14   a  thereof than is the case with divider  16 . This difference in first member  220  makes for a more gentle transition between second flooring surface  14  and divider  216 . 
     In a similar fashion, first arm  230  of divider  216  extends for a distance over the upper surface  12   a  and beyond edge  12   b  of first flooring surface  12 . First arm  230  therefore extends for a distance that approximates its entire length beyond first edge  22   c  of second member  22 . The length of first arm  230  also makes the transition between divider  216  and first flooring surface  12  more gentle. 
       FIG. 12  illustrates a third embodiment of a divider in accordance with an aspect of the invention. The third embodiment divider is indicated by the reference number  316 . Divider  316  includes a first member  320  and a second member  22  that again are snap-fittingly and releasably engageable with each other in much the same manner as divider  16 . Second member  22  is substantially identical to the second members shown in  FIGS. 2 and 11  and functions in the same manner. First member  20  includes a base  324  which has an upper surface  324   a , lower surface  324   b , first and second ends (not shown but substantially identical to first and second ends  24   c ,  24   d ), and first and second sides  324   e ,  324   f . A first protrusion  326  and a second protrusion  328  extend outwardly from lower surface  324   b  and engage second member  22 . First protrusion  326  is substantially identical in structure and function to first protrusion  226  and second protrusion  328  is substantially identical in structure and function to second protrusion  228 . 
     First member  320  further includes a second arm  331  which extends between from base  324  in a first direction outwardly from first protrusion  326 . Second arm  331  angles downwardly from a thicker region of base  324  (which extends between first and second protrusions  326 ,  328 ). Preferably second arm  331  is disposed at an angle of about 45° relative to upper surface  324   a  of the thicker region of base  324 . When divider  316  is positioned between a first flooring surface  12  and a second flooring surface  14 , the terminal end of second arm  331 , i.e., second end  324   f , contacts upper surface  14   b  of second flooring surface  14 . First arm  331  extends for a distance beyond second edge  22   d  of second member  22  and for a distance beyond edge  14   b  of second flooring surface  14 . 
     In accordance with an aspect of the invention; first arm  230  is substantially longer than second arm  331 . A supporting leg  381  extends downwardly from bottom surface  324   b  of base, and particularly from the lower surface thereof. Preferably, leg  381  is disposed intermediate second protrusion  328  and end  324   e  of first arm  230 . In particular, leg  381  is disposed a first distance from second protrusion  328  and a second distance from end  324   e . Most particularly, the first and second distances are substantially equal and leg  381  is positioned approximately in the middle of the length of first arm  230 . In other words, supporting leg  381  is approximately equidistant between second protrusion  328  and first side  324   e  of base  324 . 
     Leg  381  has a peripheral side wall with an exterior surface  381   a  and an interior surface  381   c . Leg  381  also has a bottom end  381   b . It should be noted that leg  381  is separated from second protrusion  328  by a gap  383 . A bracing wall section  381   d  angles upwardly from the interior surface  328   c  of the side wall of leg  381  and toward lower surface  324   b  of first arm  330 . This wall section  381   d  acts as a supportive brace and aids in preventing leg  38   a  from buckling when downward force is brought to bear upon the region of base  324  above leg  381 . Wall section  381   d  also reduces the tendency of leg  381  to rotate inwardly toward second protrusion  328 . Preferably, the angle of wall section  381   d  is approximately 45° relative to each of interior surface  328   c  and lower surface  324   b . It will be understood, however, a wall section  381   d  disposed at any angle other than 45° may be utilized, provided the angle selected will enable wall section  381   d  to provide sufficient strength to leg  381  and second arm  330  to enable them to perform their functions adequately. 
     It should further be noted that leg  381  is longer than second protrusion  328 , which in turn is longer than first protrusion  326 . Preferably, leg  381  is long enough that when first member  320  is engaged with second member  322 , bottom end  381   b  of leg  381  is substantially aligned with bottom surface  22   b  of second member  22 . Thus, bottom end  381   b  of leg  381  is able to rest on upper surface  18   a  of base surface  18  and is aligned with bottom surface  22   b  of second member  22  thereon. This configuration ensures that base  324  is adequately supported above base surface  18  from first side  324   e  through to second side  324   f.    
     First member  320  further includes one or more ridges  325  which are substantially parallel to each other and spaced apart from each other. Ridges  325  are substantially identical to ridges  225  and provide a gripping surface or tread on divider  316 . 
     Divider  316  is particularly useful in situations where there is a substantial gap between the edges of the first and second floor surfaces  12 ,  14 . Divider  316  is used to span this gap. In this instance, second member  22  is secured to base surface  18  as has been previously described and first member  320  is interlockingly engaged with second member  22 . Leg  381  extends downwardly into a gap between edge  12   b  of first flooring surface  12  and first edge  22   c  of second member  22 . Edge  12   b  of first flooring surface  12  preferably abuts exterior surface  381   a  of leg  381  although it can be situated between exterior surface  381   a  and a short distance inwardly from first side  324   a  of first arm  330 . Divider  316  is able to be disengaged from base surface  18  as previously described with reference to divider  16 . 
     In accordance with the present invention, it should be noted that the upper surface  324   a  of the region of base member  324  which extends between first and second protrusions  326 ,  328  and between second protrusion and leg  328 ,  381  is substantially planar and horizontal. First and second arms  330 ,  331  angle downwardly away from this horizontal region. Furthermore, bottom end  381   b  of leg  381  rests upon base surface  18  not upon first flooring surface  12 . 
     Certain modifications to dividers  316  and  216  are possible. For example, divider  316  could be modified so that second ami  331  is substantially identical to first arm  330  (i.e. so that the first and second arm arrangement is similar to divider  216 ); and then a leg similar to leg  381  (but a mirror image thereof) disposed on second arm  331 . This modified divider could then be used to span an even larger gap between first and second flooring surfaces  12 ,  14  with the two spaced apart legs providing support to the first and second arms. Again, if modified in this way, the second leg would be of a similar length to leg  381  and therefore be longer than both of the first and second protrusions and directly contact the base surface upon which second member  22  is secured. 
     It will further be understood that while the third embodiment of the invention is illustrated as having a first protrusion  326  that defines a slot  325  therein, the first protrusion may instead be identically configured to the first protrusion  26 . 
     It will further be understood that first and second members  220 ,  22  and  320 ,  22  snap fittingly engage each other and that first members  220  or  320  are able to pivot relative to second members  22  on the curved surfaces of the terminal end of respective first protrusion  226  or  326 . Still further, the second recess  48  in both of these systems defines notches therein and in which the flanges of the second protrusion  228 ,  328  engage, as is described with reference to the notches and flanges utilized in divider  16 . 
     In the foregoing description, certain terms have been used for brevity, clearness, and understanding. No unnecessary limitations are to be implied therefrom beyond the requirement of the prior art because such terms are used for descriptive purposes and are intended to be broadly construed. 
     Moreover, the description and illustration of the invention are an example and the invention is not limited to the exact details shown or described.