Inventors:
Thomas P. Macauda - Downers Grove IL, US
International Classification:
B60N 3/04
Abstract:
A vehicle floor mat can include a base that conforms to the contour of a vehicle floor and has one or more receptacles formed in the upwardly facing surface of the base. An insert can be received and retained within the receptacle. The receptacles can include a gasket strip that overlaps the perimeter of an insert placed into the receptacle to create a water resistant seal. In some embodiments, the insert, can have electrically powered functionality and can be removable from and replaceable within the receptacle. A source of electric power and conductors can supply the electric power to the insert. In at least some embodiments, the floor mat can include at least one manipulatable switch capable of connecting and disconnecting the electric power to and from the insert. In some or the same embodiments, the floor mat can include a microprocessor-based receiver/transmitter capable of receiving and transmitting signals wirelessly from and to a user device, such as a smart phone. The signals actuate and control the electrically powered functionality associated with the insert.
