Abstract:
Examples of the present disclosure are related systems and methods for lead-ins for anti-fatigue floor mats. More particularly, embodiments disclose lead-ins with tapered ends with variable heights that transition from a floor level to a mat surface level to enable drop stitch-mats to be used in residential and commercial areas.

Description:
BACKGROUND INFORMATION 
       [0001]    Field of the Disclosure 
         [0002]    Examples of the present disclosure are related systems and methods for lead-ins for anti-fatigue floor mats. More particularly, embodiments disclose lead-ins with tapered ends with variable heights that transition from a floor level to a mat surface level to enable drop stitch-mats to be used in residential and commercial areas. 
         [0003]    Background 
         [0004]    Anti-fatigue floor mats are often used to enhance the comfort of those standing for extended periods of time. Conventional anti-fatigue mats are manufactured in a variety of ways, but typically include a combination of a decorative pattern and resilient materials that provide cushioning. 
         [0005]    Inflatable devices have been used as floor mats, floatation devices, or bedding. However, conventional inflatable devices are too soft and flexible for operational floor mats. To overcome these deficiencies, when used as floor mats conventional inflatable devices have incorporated drop-stitched construction of double wall fabric. Drop stitched construction provides tensional thread elements between two opposing surfaces allowing an inflated device to handle higher pressures and remain more rigid. These systems are used in inflatable boat flooring, stand-up paddleboards, docks, and even airplane wings. However, these systems are not used in commercial or residential floor mats due to their thickness and cornered ends. 
         [0006]    Accordingly, needs exist for more effective and efficient systems and methods for a transition element, such as lead-ins configured to transition ends of an anti-fatigue mat from a floor level to a mat surface level. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0007]    Embodiments disclosed herein describe mat systems and methods configured to provide anti-fatigue mats with lead-ins. The lead-ins are configured to transition from a floor level to an elevated mat surface level. Embodiments may be compatible with current anti-fatigue floor mats, including inflatable devices incorporating drop-stitch technology. The lead-ins may allow drop-stitch constructions used as floor mats to be used in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Embodiments may also include the inherent advantages of drop-stitch constructions, such as portability, durability, light weight in transport, etc. 
         [0008]    Embodiments of a drop-stitch floor mat may be configured to transform hard standing surfaces, such as tile, concrete, wood, etc. found in work environments in the home or workplace, into a cushioned anti-fatigue standing area, which may improve a user&#39;s comfort and productivity. Additionally, embodiments may be configured to be light weight for easy transport, easy to inflate and deflate, implemented with different air pressures, and easily deflated, rolled, and transported. In embodiments, finished materials may be joined together through factory bonding or via after-market hardware techniques, which may provide anti-fatigue floor mats of different widths and lengths. 
         [0009]    Embodiments may include an anti-fatigue mat system comprising an anti-fatigue mat configured to be inflated, the anti-fatigue mat may have a flat planar surface, wherein a height of a top surface of the anti-fatigue mat remains constant. The anti-fatigue mat system may also include a lead-in configured to be positioned proximate to a sidewall of the anti-fatigue mat, a height of a top surface the lead-in having varying heights, wherein the height of the top surface of the lead-in proximate to an edge of the lead-in is shorter than the height of the top surface of the lead-in proximate to the sidewall of the anti-fatigue mat. 
         [0010]    In embodiments, the lead-in includes tensional support members extending from the top surface of the lead-in to a bottom surface of the lead-in, the tensional support members positioned proximate to the edge of the lead-in being shorter than the tensional support members of the lead-in positioned proximate to the sidewall of the anti-fatigue mat. 
         [0011]    Embodiments may also include a plurality of lead-ins, each of the plurality of leads-ins being configured to be positioned proximate to an edge of the anti-fatigue mat, wherein adjacent lead-ins include ends that form complementary angles. 
         [0012]    Embodiments may also include an end cap being configured to be positioned between the lead-in and the anti-fatigue mat. 
         [0013]    Embodiments may also include a first top fabric configured to be positioned over the anti-fatigue mat, a first bottom fabric configured to be positioned below the anti-fatigue mat. Furthermore, a second top fabric may be configured to be positioned over the first top fabric and the lead-in, and a second bottom fabric may be configured to be positioned under the first bottom fabric, wherein at least a portion of the second top fabric is configured to be positioned below the second bottom fabric. 
         [0014]    Embodiments may also include a coupling mechanism including a base and a projection, the projection extending in a direction perpendicular to a floor surface, wherein the projection is configured to be inserted into a hollow channel within the lead-in. 
         [0015]    Embodiments may also include a plurality of hollow channels positioned within the lead-in. A bottom fabric of embodiments may have a perimeter extending past edges of the anti-fatigue mat. The bottom fabric may include orifices extending through the bottom fabric that are configured to align with the plurality of hollow channels, wherein a plurality of coupling mechanisms are configured to be inserted through the orifices into the plurality of hollow channels. 
         [0016]    Embodiments of a lead-in may include a first section of the lead-in positioned above a second section of the lead-in, the first section of the lead-in including a first hollow channel extending into the first section, the second section of the lead in including a second hollow channel extending through the second section. In embodiments, an end cap may be configured to be positioned between the lead-in and the anti-fatigue mat, the end cap may include a tab extending into the lead-in in a direction in parallel to a base of the coupling mechanism, and the tab may include an orifice extending through the tab. 
         [0017]    In embodiments, the anti-fatigue mat may include an inflatable sidewall, and the lead-in includes a slot, responsive to inflating the inflatable sidewall the anti-fatigue mat may be configured to be coupled with the lead-in. 
         [0018]    In embodiments, a bridging element may be configured to couple a first anti-fatigue mat and a second anti-fatigue mat. 
         [0019]    To this end, embodiments may create a lead-in for current drop-stitch mat technology, wherein the lead-in may be coupled to drop-stitch mats in a plurality of different ways. The addition of a lead-in may convert a drop-stitch mat into an anti-fatigue mat that may be utilized in residential and commercial settings. Embodiments may be produced in a plurality of different lengths and widths, with different number of mats, which may be joined together to produce products of various shapes and sizes. 
         [0020]    Embodiments may also incorporate a pressure relief valve. The pressure relief valve may be configured to maintain or control the internal pressure of an anti-fatigue mat at a desired pressure correlating to a specific comfort level. Typically seams of an anti-fatigue mat may rupture as the ambient temperature of an environment increases or an internal integrated pump causes the internal pressure of the anti-fatigue mat to increase. However, as the internal pressure of the anti-fatigue mat changes, the pressure relief valve may activate to maintain the internal pressure of the anti-fatigue mat. 
         [0021]    As anti-fatigue mats are configured to be walked on, but also needs air for inflation, embodiments may also incorporate an integrated foot pump. The integrated floor pump may be configured to activate and provide additional air pressure whenever the anti-fatigue mat is stepped on. To keep the anti-fatigue mat from over-inflating, the pressure relief valve could be combined with an integrated foot pump to maintain the internal pressure of the anti-fatigue at the desired pressure. 
         [0022]    These, and other, aspects of the invention will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with the following description and the accompanying drawings. The following description, while indicating various embodiments of the invention and numerous specific details thereof, is given by way of illustration and not of limitation. Many substitutions, modifications, additions or rearrangements may be made within the scope of the invention, and the invention includes all such substitutions, modifications, additions or rearrangements. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0023]    Non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments of the present invention are described with reference to the following figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the various views unless otherwise specified. 
           [0024]      FIG. 1  depicts a conventional construction for an inflated device including drop-stitch technology. 
           [0025]      FIG. 2  depicts an anti-fatigue mat with a lead-in, according to an embodiment. 
           [0026]      FIG. 3  depicts a lead-in integrated with an anti-fatigue mat, according to an embodiment. 
           [0027]      FIG. 4  depicts a plurality of lead-ins integrated with an anti-fatigue mat, according to an embodiment. 
           [0028]      FIG. 5  depicts an anti-fatigue mat system with a lead-in and anti-fatigue mat, according to an embodiment. 
           [0029]      FIG. 6  depicts a side view of an anti-fatigue mat system with a lead-in and anti-fatigue mat, according to an embodiment. 
           [0030]      FIG. 7  depicts perspective view of an anti-fatigue mat system, according to an embodiment. 
           [0031]      FIG. 8  depicts a side view of an anti-fatigue mat system, according to an embodiment. 
           [0032]      FIG. 9  depicts a side view of an anti-fatigue mat system with an anti-fatigue mat and lead-in, according to an embodiment. 
           [0033]      FIG. 10  depicts a side view of an anti-fatigue mat system with a first anti-fatigue mat, a second anti-fatigue mat, and bridging lead-in, according to an embodiment. 
       
    
    
       [0034]    Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding components throughout the several views of the drawings. Skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of various embodiments of the present disclosure. Also, common but well-understood elements that are useful or necessary in a commercially feasible embodiment are often not depicted in order to facilitate a less obstructed view of these various embodiments of the present disclosure. 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0035]    In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present embodiments. It will be apparent, however, to one having ordinary skill in the art that the specific detail need not be employed to practice the present embodiments. In other instances, well-known materials or methods have not been described in detail in order to avoid obscuring the present embodiments. 
         [0036]    Embodiments disclosed herein describe anti-fatigue floor mat systems, which may be inflated, utilize drop-stitch technology, and provide a transitional lead-in from a floor surface to an elevated mat surface. This may minimize, reduce, or eliminate tripping and/or other hazards. Embodiments may increase friction between a floor surface and the anti-fatigue mats, which may limit, reduce, minimize, etc. the movement or sliding of the anti-fatigue mats across the floor surface. Additionally, embodiments of anti-fatigue mats may increase the weight of the anti-fatigue mats, which may minimize the movement of the anti-fatigue mat when receiving force, such as being kicked or pushed. 
         [0037]      FIG. 1  depicts a conventional construction for an inflated device  100  including drop-stitch technology. Conventional inflated device  100  may include a uniform height extending across the length and width of body of inflated device  100 . The uniform height of inflated device  100  instantaneously elevates the mat surface at a vertical offset from the floor surface. This instantaneous vertical offset causes users to trip, stub their toes, and/or create other hazards. Inflated device  100  includes tensional support members  110 , top fabric  120 , bottom fabric  130 , and end cap  140 . 
         [0038]    Tensional support members  110  are polyester threads extending from top fabric  120  to bottom fabric  130 , and are created to be a fixed, equal height. In embodiments, inflated device  100  may include thousands of tensional support members  110  maintained in tension. 
         [0039]    In use, top fabric  120  is configured to be positioned directly underneath the feet of users when inflated device  100 . In use, bottom fabric  130  is configured to be positioned adjacent to a floor surface when inflated device  100 . 
         [0040]    End cap  140  is configured to be positioned over an edge of inflated device  100 , wherein end cap  140  is adhered to inflated device  100 . End cap  140  has a sidewall that is parallel to the direction of tensional support members  100 . Additionally, end cap  140  is configured to overlap with portions of top fabric  120  and bottom fabric  130  to form overlapped joints  150 , wherein the overlapped joints  150  couple end cap  140  with top fabric  120  and bottom fabric  130 . However, in use, the outer surface of end cap  140  creates an instantaneous vertical offset extending from the floor surface to the top fabric  120 . This instantaneous vertical creates hazards. To reduce, minimize, or eliminate the hazards, a transitional lead-in is desired that incrementally changes vertical offset height of the edges of anti-fatigue mat. 
         [0041]      FIG. 2  depicts an anti-fatigue mat  200  with a lead-in  210 , according to an embodiment. 
         [0042]    Anti-fatigue mat  200  may be an anti-fatigue mat that implements drop-stitched construction of double wall fabric (referred to hereinafter collectively and individually as “drop-stitched” construction), which may be inflated between 15-20 psi. In other embodiments, anti-fatigue mat  200  may be any mat, cushion, inflatable device, which may incorporate features of inflated device  100 . Anti-fatigue mat  200  may include a first section  220  and a second section  230 . 
         [0043]    First section  220  of anti-fatigue mat  200  may include tensional support members  222 . Tensional support members  222  positioned in first section  220  may be comprised of polyester threads that extend from a top surface to a bottom surface of first section  220 . Tensional support members  222  positioned in the first section  220  may be created at a fixed, equal height. 
         [0044]    Second section  230  may have a tapered, sloped, etc. top surface, which gradually decreases the vertical distance between the bottom surface of second section  230  to the top surface of second section  230  to from lead-in  210 . Tensional support members  232  positioned in second section  230  may be comprised of polyester threads, and may extend from a top surface to a bottom surface of second section  230 . Tensional support members  232  within second section  230  may have varying heights corresponding to the tapering of lead-in  210 , wherein tensional support members  232  positioned more proximate to first section  220  may have a greater height than tensional support members  232  positioned proximate to the edge  234 . By varying the height of tension support members  232 , lead-in  210  may be created. 
         [0045]    In embodiments, a specialized machine may vary the length of tensional support members  232  to create lead-in  210 . The specialized machine may vary the length of tensional support members  232  by utilizing needles of different lengths, wherein shorter needles may be positioned closer to edge  234  to create shorter tensional support members  232 . 
         [0046]    In further embodiments, an end cap (not shown) may be positioned on edge  234 , over portions of second section  230 , or completely cover second section  230 . The edges of the end cap may create joint overlaps. When the end cap is overlaid over the top and bottom surfaces of anti-fatigue mat  200 . Accordingly, the size of the end cap may vary. 
         [0047]      FIG. 3  depicts a lead-in  310  integrated with anti-fatigue mat  300 , according to an embodiment. Elements depicted in  FIG. 3  may be substantially similar to those discussed above. For the sake of brevity, another description of these elements is omitted. 
         [0048]    Lead-in  310  may be configured to convert anti-fatigue mat  300  with a planar top surface into an anti-fatigue mat with transitional edges. Thus, the converted anti-fatigue mat may to be used as residential and/or commercial floor mats. 
         [0049]    As depicted in  FIG. 3 , lead-in  310  may be configured to be positioned adjacent to an outer surface of an end cap  305 . Lead-in  310  may be comprised of various materials, which may be the same material or a different material than that of anti-fatigue mat  300 . For example, lead-in  310  may be comprised of foamed urethane or any other material that adheres easily to other structures. Lead-in  310  may be coupled to end cap  305  in various manners, including adhesives, fasteners, or other coupling methods or devices. 
         [0050]    A first top surface  312  of lead-in  310  may be substantially the same height as a top surface  302  of anti-fatigue mat  300 . Yet, a second top surface  314  of lead-in  310  may have varying heights. Responsive to coupling lead-in  310  to end cap  305 , anti-fatigue mat  300  may have a smooth transition from the floor surface to an elevated, anti-fatigue mat surface. 
         [0051]      FIG. 4  depicts a plurality of lead-ins  310  integrated with anti-fatigue mat  300 , according to an embodiment. Elements depicted in  FIG. 4  may be substantially similar to those discussed above. For the sake of brevity, another description of these elements is omitted. 
         [0052]    As depicted in  FIG. 4 , leads-ins  310  may be configured to be positioned over each exposed edge  405  of anti-fatigue mat  300 . In embodiments, sidewalls  410  of adjacent lead-ins  310  may have complementary angles, such that a sidewall  410  of a first lead-in  310  and a sidewall  410  of a second lead-in  310  form a right angle. To this end, the corners of anti-fatigue mat  300  may transition via two lead-ins  310 . 
         [0053]      FIG. 5  depicts an anti-fatigue mat system  500  with lead-in  310  and anti-fatigue mat  300 , according to an embodiment. Elements depicted in  FIG. 5  may be substantially similar to those discussed above. For the sake of brevity, another description of these elements is omitted. 
         [0054]    As depicted in  FIG. 5 , anti-fatigue mat system  500  may include a second top fabric  510  and a second bottom fabric  520 . Second top fabric  510  and second bottom fabric  520  may be comprised of different materials or the same materials. Second top fabric  510  may be comprised of a coated, resilient cushioned material, and second bottom fabric  520  may be comprised of a material configured to reduce the sliding of movement of anti-fatigue mat system  500 . The coated material may enable anti-fatigue mat  300  to hold air. 
         [0055]    Furthermore, second top fabric  510  may be comprised of the same and/or different material as top fabric  120 , and second bottom fabric  520  may be comprised of the same and/or different material as bottom fabric  130 . 
         [0056]    Second top fabric  510  may be configured to be positioned adjacent to and over top surfaces of anti-fatigue mat  300  and lead-in  310 . Additionally, second top fabric  510  may be positioned under and adjacent to portions of second bottom fabric  520 . Accordingly, second top fabric  510  may adhere to, wrap around the exposed top surfaces of anti-fatigue mat  300  and lead-in  310 , and also be positioned under anti-fatigue mat  300  and lead- 310 . 
         [0057]    Second bottom fabric  520  may be configured to be positioned under and adjacent to anti-fatigue mat  300  and lead-in  310 . Additionally, portions of second bottom fabric  520  may be configured to be positioned over portions of second top fabric  510 . 
         [0058]    In embodiments, the portion of second top fabric  510  that is positioned under second bottom fabric  520  may form a single exposed overlap joint  540 , wherein overlap joint  540  may be positioned under lead-in  310  and/or anti-fatigue mat  300 . Overlap joint  540  may be configured to be a removable joint, wherein second top fabric  510  may be decoupled from second top bottom fabric  520 . Alternatively, overlap joint  540  may be configured to be a permanent and fixed joint, such that second top fabric  510  may not be decoupled from second bottom fabric  520 . 
         [0059]      FIG. 6  depicts a side view of an anti-fatigue mat system  600  with lead-in  610  and anti-fatigue mat  300 , according to an embodiment. Elements depicted in  FIG. 6  may be substantially similar to those discussed above. For the sake of brevity, another description of these elements is omitted. Anti-fatigue mat system  600  may include anti-fatigue mat  300 , lead-in  610 , second bottom fabric  620 , and coupling mechanism  630 . 
         [0060]    Lead-in  610  may be configured to be positioned adjacent to an outer surface of an end cap  305  of anti-fatigue mat  300 . A lower portion of lead-in  610  may include a hollow channel, passageway, groove, recessions, etc. extending into, but not through, lead in  610 . The hollow channel may be configured to receive coupling mechanism  630 . The hollow channel may extend in a direction in parallel to the longitudinal axis of tensional support members  110 . In embodiments, the hollow channel may be vertically aligned with the intersection of the tapered portion of lead-in  610  and the planar top surface of lead-in  610 . 
         [0061]    Second bottom fabric  620  may be configured to be positioned below and adjacent to lead-in  610  and anti-fatigue mat  300 . Second bottom fabric  620  may be comprised of non-slip material, and may include an orifice extending through second bottom fabric  620  that is configured to align with the hollow channel within lead-in  610 . In embodiments, second bottom fabric  620  may be adhered to or removable from anti-fatigue mat  300 . 
         [0062]    Coupling mechanism  630  may be a fastener, rivet, clasp, etc. that is comprised of a soft material, which may be the same material or a different material than lead-in  610  and/or anti-fatigue mat  300 . For example, coupling mechanism  630  may be comprised of flexible and semi-rigid materials, such as foam, polyurethane, or other materials that may be compressed and/or elongated. Coupling mechanism  630  may include a base  632  and projection  634 . 
         [0063]    Base  632  may have a first diameter and may be configured to be positioned below and adjacent to second bottom fabric  620 . Projection  634  may have a second diameter that is smaller than the first diameter, and extend away from base  632  is a direction that is perpendicular to base  632 . Projection  634  may be configured to be inserted through the orifice on second bottom fabric  620  and into the hollow channel within lead-in  610 . Responsive to inserting projection  634  through the orifice and into the hollow chamber, lead-in  610 , second bottom fabric  620 , and anti-fatigue mat  300  may be removably coupled together. 
         [0064]      FIG. 7  depicts perspective view of anti-fatigue mat system  600 , according to an embodiment. Elements depicted in  FIG. 7  may be substantially similar to those discussed above. For the sake of brevity, another description of these elements is omitted. 
         [0065]    As depicted in  FIG. 7 , second bottom fabric  620  may be configured to form a perimeter or boundary around anti-fatigue mat  300 . Second bottom fabric  620  may include a plurality of orifices  505  that are configured to receive coupling mechanisms  630 . 
         [0066]    Lead-in  610  may be comprised of multiple parts configured to be positioned adjacent to the edges of anti-fatigue mat  300  and over second bottom fabric  620 . Responsive to positioning lead-in  610  over second bottom fabric  620 , coupling mechanisms  630  may be inserted through the orifices  705  positioned on second bottom fabric  620 . 
         [0067]    Additionally, lead-in  610  may create additional weight to anti-fatigue mat system  600 , which in combination with the non-slip material of second bottom fabric  620  may be configured to hold anti-fatigue mat  300  in place. 
         [0068]      FIG. 8  depicts a side view of an anti-fatigue mat system  800 , according to an embodiment. Elements depicted in  FIG. 8  may be substantially similar to those discussed above. For the sake of brevity, another description of these elements is omitted. Anti-fatigue mat system  800  may include end cap  810 , lead-in  820 , and coupling mechanism  830 . 
         [0069]    End cap  810  may be configured to be positioned adjacent to an edge of anti-fatigue mat  300 . End cap  810  may include a tab  812  that is configured to project away from a sidewall of end cap  810 . Tab  812  may extend away from end cap  810  in a direction parallel to a floor surface and perpendicular to tensional support members within anti-fatigue mat  300 . Tab  812  may be configured to be inserted into lead-in  820 . In embodiments, tab  812  may have a length that extends past the intersection of the sloped surface and the flat surface of lead-in  820 . Tab  812  may include an orifice positioned through tab  812 . The orifice may be configured to receive a projection  834  positioned on coupling mechanism  830 . In embodiments, the orifice may be positioned between the intersection of the sloped surface and the flat surface of lead-in  820  and the sidewall of end cap  810 . 
         [0070]    Lead-in  820  may be comprised of multiple layers  822  and  824 . First layer  822  may be positioned over and adjacent to second layer  824 . In embodiments, tab  812  may be configured to extend into first layer  822 , second layer  824 , or an intersection of first layer  822  and second layer  824 . 
         [0071]    First layer  822  and second layer  824  may include hollow channels, passageways, groove, recessions, etc. that are configured to align with each other. A first hollow channel positioned within first layer  822  may extend into first layer  822 , while a second hollow channel positioned within second layer  824  may extend through second layer  824 . In embodiments, the first hollow channel and the second hollow channel may be configured to receive projection  834  positioned on coupling mechanism  830 . 
         [0072]    Coupling mechanism  830  may be a fastener, rivet, clasp, etc., and may include a base  832  and projection  834 . 
         [0073]    Base  832  may have a first diameter, and may be configured to be positioned below and adjacent to a bottom surface of lead in  820 . The first diameter may be less than a length of tab  812 . 
         [0074]    Projection  834  may have a second diameter that is smaller than the first diameter, and projection  834  extend away from base  832  in a direction that is perpendicular to base  832  and tab  812 . Projection  834  may be configured to be inserted through the second hollow channel positioned within second layer  824 , through the orifice within tab  812 , and into the first hollow channel positioned within first layer  822 . Projection  834  may have a height that is greater than the height of second layer  824 , but less than the height of lead-in  820 . Responsive to inserting projection  834  through the orifices and hollow channels, lead-in  820 , and anti-fatigue mat  300  may be removably coupled together. 
         [0075]      FIG. 9  depicts a side view of an anti-fatigue mat system  900  with anti-fatigue mat  910  and lead-in  920 , according to an embodiment. Elements depicted in  FIG. 9  may be substantially similar to those discussed above. For the sake of brevity, another description of these elements is omitted. 
         [0076]    Anti-fatigue mat  910  may be an inflatable anti-fatigue mat comprised of drop-stitched construction. Anti-fatigue mat  910  may include a body  912  and a dynamic sidewall  914 . Body  912  and dynamic sidewall  914  of anti-fatigue mat  910  may be configured to be inflated and deflated. Responsive to inflating body  912  and dynamic sidewall  914 , body  912  and dynamic sidewall  914  may expand and increase in volume. Dynamic sidewall  914  may be positioned on an edge of body  912 , such that dynamic sidewall  914  extends away from body  912 . 
         [0077]    Lead-in  920  may be configured to be positioned adjacent to anti-fatigue mat  910 . Lead-in  920  may be comprised of a semi-rigid, cushioned material. Lead-in  920  may include a slot  922  positioned on an end of lead-in  920 . Slot  922  may be shaped and sized to correspond to dynamic sidewall  914 , when dynamic sidewall  914  is inflated. In embodiments, dynamic sidewall  914  may be positioned within slot  922 , and anti-fatigue mat  910  may be inflated. Once anti-fatigue mat  910  is inflated, the volume of dynamic sidewall  914  may increase such that dynamic sidewall  914  fills up slot  922 . The pressure caused by dynamic sidewall  914  against slot  922  may couple lead-in  920  with anti-fatigue mat  910 . Responsive to deflating, anti-fatigue mat  910 , the volume of dynamic sidewall  914  may decrease. This may allow dynamic sidewall  914  to slide out of slot  922  to decouple anti-fatigue mat  910  and lead-in  920 . 
         [0078]      FIG. 10  depicts a side view of an anti-fatigue mat system  1000  with a first anti-fatigue mat  1010 , a second anti-fatigue mat  1020 , and bridging lead-in  1030 , according to an embodiment. Elements depicted in  FIG. 10  may be substantially similar to those discussed above. For the sake of brevity, another description of these elements is omitted. 
         [0079]    Bridging element  1030  may be configured to couple first anti-fatigue mat  1010  and second anti-fatigue mat  1020 . Bridging element  1030  may incorporate embodiments discussed above to couple the anti-fatigue mats  1010 ,  1020 . By anti-fatigue mat system  1000  having a plurality of anti-fatigue mats that are removably coupled together, if necessary, a single anti-fatigue mat may be replaced. 
         [0080]    Bridging element  1030  may utilize a first coupling mechanism positioned on a first side of bridging element  1030  to removable couple bridging element  1030  and first anti-fatigue mat  1010 , and bridging element  1030  may utilize a second coupling mechanism positioned on a second side of bridging element  1030  to removable couple bridging element  1030  and second anti-fatigue mat  1020 . 
         [0081]    In embodiments, the coupling mechanism on the first side of bridging element  1030  may be the same as the coupling mechanism on the second side of bridging element  1030 , or the coupling mechanisms may be different. For example, the first coupling mechanism and second coupling mechanism may both include coupling mechanism  630  as described and depicted in  FIG. 6 . However, in other embodiments, the first coupling mechanism may include coupling mechanism  630  as described and depicted in  FIG. 6 , and the second coupling mechanism may include dynamic sidewall  914  and slot  922  as described and depicted in  FIG. 9 . 
         [0082]    In another embodiment, an anti-fatigue mat system may be manufactured by first creating a subassembly. The subassembly may include a drop-stitch bladder with an additional top fabric sheet attached to a top surface of the drop-stitch bladder. The edges of the additional top fabric sheet may extend beyond the drop-stitch bladder perimeter. This subassembly may then be positioned into a mold whose interior may substantially be the same shape as an anti-fatigue mat system with lead-ins. The mold may initially include a closed bottom and an open top surface. 
         [0083]    Expanding foam may be sprayed into the open top surface of the mold. At this point, the drop-stitch bladder may be deflated or, in embodiments, inflated to exceed the blowing pressures of the expanding foam. Next, the open top surface of the mold may be closed, clamping the extra top fabric in the process, and the expanding foam may expand to the shape of the mold. This may create an anti-fatigue mat with a drop-stitch bladder encased, and with foam forming the lead-ins and bottom surface. In other words, an anti-fatigue mat system may be created by inflating the drop-stitch bladder while an over-mold of foam forms the lead-ins and bottom surface. 
         [0084]    In other embodiments, the drop stitch bladder may be inserted into the open top surface of the mold without any extra fabric sheet being first attached. In this embodiment, the top surface of the mold may be shut and clamps or shuts off against the drop-stitch bladder itself. Similar to the manner in which a shoe sole is added to a shoe upper, the lead-ins may be coupled to the drop-stitch bladder. In other embodiments, the lead-in may be coupled to the drop-stitch bladder via adhesives, welting or any other coupling process. In other embodiments, a gel or foam top layer may be included to increase comfort, weight and puncture resistance. 
         [0085]    Embodiments may create a unified anti-fatigue mat with permanently coupled lead-ins, and may completely seal the bottom surface and edges of the unified anti-fatigue mat. The unified anti-fatigue mat may reduce punctures while minimizing debris from being positioned between the body of the anti-fatigue mat and lead-ins. 
         [0086]    Although the present technology has been described in detail for the purpose of illustration based on what is currently considered to be the most practical and preferred implementations, it is to be understood that such detail is solely for that purpose and that the technology is not limited to the disclosed implementations, but, on the contrary, is intended to cover modifications and equivalent arrangements that are within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. For example, it is to be understood that the present technology contemplates that, to the extent possible, one or more features of any implementation can be combined with one or more features of any other implementation. 
         [0087]    Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment”, “an embodiment”, “one example” or “an example” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment”, “in an embodiment”, “one example” or “an example” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable combinations and/or sub-combinations in one or more embodiments or examples. In addition, it is appreciated that the figures provided herewith are for explanation purposes to persons ordinarily skilled in the art and that the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale.