Abstract: A variable thickness fabric mat for use at a stress transition zone juncture such as at a bridge-roadway juncture or a railroad crossing-roadway juncture, for more evenly spreading the stress forces from traffic thereover to the underlying support surfaces. The variable thickness mat is preferably formed of non-woven fabric and is of variable thickness in a direction lengthwise of the mat as well as in a direction transverse of the mat.

Abstract: A variable thickness fabric mat for use with railroad track right of way beneath the track structure. The mat has a central portion of predetermined thickness, and lateral shoulder portions of a reduced thickness as compared to said cental portion, with the central portion being of a predetermined width of adequate dimension to generally completely underlie the railroad track structure. The mat provides a method for transmission of force from a train on the railroad track structure to be spread over a greater area of the underlying earth bearing surface, and with the mat possessing the capability of passing water, and aiding in draining water from the soil beneath the mat, as well as from the top and sides of the track support.