Pneumatic cleaning mat and method of making same

摘要

A mat is provided for placement at a doorway or other area where it is desired to provide a positive cleaning action of footwear worn by pedestrians. The mat is in the form of a flat, pressurized tank equipped with a plurality of closely spaced poppet valves distributed over the tread surface and which will release air jets when stepped upon. The air jets released by the poppet valves will blow debris such as dirt and snow from the soles of shoes, boots, etc., of the wearer as he steps on the mat. The tread surface of the mat preferably is in the form of a corrugated rubber ply or layer of bristles, for example, to collect dirt and other residue accumulated thereon as well as to protect the valves. The tank portion is connected to a compressed air system which maintains a predetermined pressure level by an automatic control system. Molding and machining operations are used in the manufacture of the tank.