Interconnectable collage system

Abstract

The invention relates to an interconnectable collage system. A tile system for covering a surface is disclosed. The tile system includes a first tile assembly connected to a second tile assembly by a connector. Each tile assembly includes a first tile stacked on a second tile, the first and second tiles joined to a reinforcing material disposed therebetween. The connector includes a first component and a second component complementary to the first component. The first component is mounted to the first tile assembly and the second component is mounted to the second tile assembly.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of patent application No. 201880089193.9, filed on December 20, 2018, entitled “Interconnectable tiling system”.

[0002] Cross-references to related applications

[0003] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 609,561, filed December 22, 2017, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0004] This invention relates to the field of tiling, and more particularly to a tiling system having multiple tiling components connected together by releasable connectors. Background Technology

[0005] Tiles can be installed on surfaces in a room, such as floors or walls, for functional or aesthetic reasons. Walking on uneven or cracked floors without tiles is unsafe. Tiles can be installed to protect the underlying surfaces from various types of damage and abrasion (e.g., liquids and impacts). The exposed surfaces of the tiles can have decorative features such as color, pattern, or design, which enhance the aesthetic appeal of the surface on which the tiles are installed.

[0006] Unfortunately, existing processes for installing collages can be expensive, labor-intensive, and require the skills and experience of trained collage installers.

[0007] Before installing the tiles on a surface, surface preparation may be required, such as by cleaning the surface, installing the mesh-framed flooring, and / or applying a layer of mortar. Installing the tiles themselves can be a challenging task. When placing the tiles on a surface, adjacent tiles may need to be level and even; otherwise, uneven edges and corners of the tiles can cause discomfort or safety hazards for people walking on the tiled surface, and misaligned or incorrectly spaced tiles can be aesthetically unappealing. After the tiles are laid, the tiled surface may require further treatment, such as applying grout, which can be both troublesome and time-consuming.

[0008] Furthermore, replacing installed tiles can be difficult. Removing installed tiles can be tedious and messy, potentially causing hardened mortar and grout to flake off, generating dust and damaging the underlying surface. Because installed tiles are fixed to the same surface, it can be challenging to replace only a portion of the installed tiles without damaging the others.

[0009] Furthermore, the existing process for installing collages may be environmentally unfriendly. In particular, damaged collages may not be reusable, and new collages need to be fabricated to replace the damaged ones. Additionally, preparing sufficient quantities of mortar and grout may be required each time a collage is installed, as reusing hardened mortar and grout may not be feasible. Summary of the Invention

[0010] According to one aspect of the present invention, a tiling system is provided for mounting on a free-floating basis to form a surface cover on a substrate without bonding tiling components to the substrate, the tiling system comprising: a first tiling component configured for a detachable connection with a second tiling component, each of the first and second tiling components comprising: a first tile stacked on the second tile, the first and second tiles being bonded to a stable material layer disposed between the first and second tiles; and wherein the first tiling component further comprises a first attachment member including at least one magnetic element, and the second tiling component further comprises a second attachment member including at least one magnetism complementary to the magnetic element of the first attachment member, the second attachment member being shaped to be complementary to the first attachment member and configured to receive the first attachment member to form a detachable connection between the first and second tiling components, the detachable connection having magnetic force and mechanical resistance attracting the first and second tiling components.

[0011] According to another aspect, a tiling system for covering a surface is provided, comprising: a first tiling assembly configured to be detachably connected to a second tiling assembly, each tiling assembly including: a first tile stacked on the second tile, the first tile and the second tile being bonded to a stable material disposed between them; wherein the first tiling assembly further includes a first attachment member, and the second tiling assembly further includes a second attachment member, the second attachment member being complementary in shape to the first attachment member.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first and second tiles are ceramic tiles.

[0013] In some embodiments, when the first tile assembly and the second tile assembly are connected, the first attachment member and the second attachment member engage in a frictional fit.

[0014] In some embodiments, a first attachment member is disposed on two adjacent sides of a first tile assembly, and a second attachment member is disposed on two adjacent sides of a second tile assembly.

[0015] In some embodiments, a first attachment member is disposed on two opposite sides of a first tiling assembly, and a second attachment member is disposed on two opposite sides of a second tiling assembly.

[0016] In some embodiments, the first attachment component is disposed on all sides of the first tiling assembly.

[0017] In some embodiments, the second attachment component is disposed on all sides of the second tiling assembly.

[0018] In some embodiments, the first attachment member is a hook, and the second attachment member is a loop.

[0019] In some embodiments, each of the first attachment member and the second attachment member has at least one magnetic element disposed therein.

[0020] In some embodiments, each of the first attachment member and the second attachment member is a magnet.

[0021] In some embodiments, the first attachment member is a tenon, and the second attachment member is a groove.

[0022] In some embodiments, the first attachment component is formed of a polymer material.

[0023] In some embodiments, the reinforcing material is an orthotropic glass fiber material.

[0024] In some embodiments, the exposed surfaces of the first tile of the first tile assembly and the first tile of the second tile assembly are substantially flush.

[0025] In some embodiments, the tiling system includes a foam pad that is attached to the exposed surface of a second tile of a first tiling assembly.

[0026] In some embodiments, the first tiling component and the second tiling component define a gap between them.

[0027] In some embodiments, the gap is approximately 3 / 16.

[0028] In some embodiments, the second tile of the first tile assembly has a first coupling surface for releasably mounting the first and second tile assemblies to a second coupling surface complementary to the first coupling surface.

[0029] In some embodiments, the first coupling surface has a loop.

[0030] In some embodiments, the second coupling surface has a hook.

[0031] In some embodiments, the first tile has one of a triangle, a rectangle, or a hexagon.

[0032] In some embodiments, the first collage has a polygonal shape.

[0033] In some embodiments, the connection between the first tiling component and the second tiling component is waterproof.

[0034] In some embodiments, the first attachment component is extendable.

[0035] According to another aspect, a tiling assembly is provided for mounting on a free-floating basis to form a surface cover on a substrate without bonding the tiling assembly to the substrate. The tiling assembly includes: an outwardly facing tiling having a plurality of sides; a first attachment member disposed on at least a first side of the plurality of sides; and a second attachment member disposed on at least a second side of the plurality of sides; wherein the first attachment member is configured to engage with a corresponding second attachment member on an adjacent tiling, and wherein the second attachment member is configured to engage with a corresponding first attachment member on an adjacent tiling.

[0036] In some embodiments, the tiling assembly further includes a stabilizing material layer disposed on the underside of the outward-facing tiling.

[0037] In some embodiments, the tiling assembly further includes an inward-facing tiling disposed on a stabilizing material layer.

[0038] In some embodiments, the stabilizing material is one of glass fiber, steel, or aluminum.

[0039] In some embodiments, the tiling component further includes a layer of sound-absorbing material.

[0040] In some embodiments, the sound-absorbing material is cork.

[0041] In some embodiments, the first and second attachment components are flexible.

[0042] In some embodiments, the tiled components resist one or more of rolling loads, high impact forces, static loads, and substrate displacement and / or settlement.

[0043] In some embodiments, the first attachment and the second attachment have one or more magnetic elements disposed therein.

[0044] In some embodiments, the first and second attachments form a hook and loop configuration.

[0045] In some embodiments, the first attachment and the second attachment form a locking structure.

[0046] According to another aspect, a tile assembly is provided that is mounted on a free-floating basis to form a surface cover on a substrate without bonding the tile assembly to the substrate. The tile assembly includes: a first tile; a second tile; a stabilizing material layer disposed between the first and second tiles; and a plate having a recess configured to receive at least one of the first and second tiles, the plate including: a first attachment member disposed on at least a first side of the plate; and a second attachment member disposed on at least a second side of the plate, wherein the first attachment member is configured to engage with a corresponding second attachment member on an adjacent plate, and wherein the second attachment member is configured to engage with a corresponding first attachment member on an adjacent plate.

[0047] In some embodiments, the tiling assembly further includes grout for sealing the connection between adjacent panels.

[0048] According to another aspect, a tiling assembly is provided that is mounted on a free-floating basis to form a surface cover on a substrate without bonding the tiling assembly to the substrate. The tiling assembly includes: a first tiling; a second tiling; a stabilizing material layer disposed between the first and second tilings; and a tray having a recess configured to receive at least one of the first and second tilings. The tray includes: a first attachment member disposed on at least a first side of the tray; and a second attachment member disposed on at least a second side of the tray. The first attachment member is configured to engage with a corresponding second attachment member on an adjacent tray, and the second attachment member is configured to engage with a corresponding first attachment member on an adjacent tray. The first and second attachment members also include artificial grout.

[0049] According to another aspect, a connector is provided for connecting a first patch having multiple sides to at least one second patch, the grouting connector comprising: a plurality of inner surfaces, each inner surface having a shape complementary to a corresponding side of the plurality of sides of the first patch; at least one first attachment member disposed on an opposite side of the at least one inner surface; at least one second attachment member disposed on an opposite side of the at least one said inner surface; wherein the first attachment member is configured to engage with a corresponding second attachment member of an adjacent grouting connector, and wherein the second attachment member is configured to engage with a corresponding first attachment member of an adjacent connector.

[0050] In some embodiments, the connector further includes a groove for receiving the first piece.

[0051] In some embodiments, the connector is bonded to the first patch by an adhesive.

[0052] In some embodiments, the connection between the first and second attachment components and the adjacent connector is waterproof.

[0053] In some embodiments, the first attachment member and the second attachment member include at least one of a tenon joint or a locking joint.

[0054] In some embodiments, the first attachment component and the second attachment component include at least one magnetic element for strengthening the connection between the connector and the adjacent connector when connected.

[0055] According to another aspect, a method for manufacturing a tiling assembly is provided, the method comprising: bonding a first tiling to a reinforcing material layer; and applying pressure to the first tiling and the reinforcing material layer.

[0056] In some embodiments, the method further includes bonding a second patch to a reinforcing material layer.

[0057] In some embodiments, the method further includes attaching sound-insulating material to a second patch.

[0058] In some embodiments, the method further includes: attaching a first attachment member to a first side of a first patch; and attaching a second attachment member to a second side of the first patch.

[0059] In some embodiments, the method further includes placing one or more of the first tiling and reinforcing material layers in a tray or plate having a recess sized to receive one or more of the first tiling and reinforcing material layers.

[0060] In some embodiments, the method further includes bonding reinforcing material to a tray or plate.

[0061] In some embodiments, the method further includes placing one or more of a first tile, a second tile, and reinforcing material in a tray or plate having a recess sized to receive one or more of the first tile, the second tile, and reinforcing material.

[0062] In some embodiments, the method further includes attaching a second patch to a tray or board.

[0063] In some embodiments, the first attachment member and the second attachment member include at least one of a tenon joint or a locking joint.

[0064] In some embodiments, the first attachment member and the second attachment member include at least one magnetic element.

[0065] According to another aspect, a method is provided for covering a substrate with an interlocking tile assembly without bonding the interlocking tile assembly to the substrate, the method comprising: engaging a first attachment feature of a first tile assembly with a second attachment feature of a second tile assembly, wherein the shape of the first attachment feature is complementary to the shape of the second attachment feature; and engaging the second attachment feature of the first tile assembly with the first attachment feature of the second tile assembly.

[0066] In some embodiments, the first and second tiling assemblies include a first tile and a stabilizing material layer on the underside of the first tile.

[0067] In some embodiments, the first attachment member and the second attachment member include at least one of a tenon joint or a locking joint.

[0068] In some embodiments, the first attachment member and the second attachment member include at least one magnetic element.

[0069] In some embodiments, the exposed surfaces of the first tiling component and the second tiling component are substantially flush.

[0070] In some embodiments, the method further includes defining a gap between the first tiling component and the second tiling component when connecting the first tiling component to the second tiling component.

[0071] In some embodiments, the gap is approximately 3 / 16".

[0072] In some embodiments, the method further includes mounting the tiling assembly to the substrate by connecting a first coupling surface of the first tiling assembly to a second coupling surface of the substrate, wherein the second coupling surface is complementary in shape to the first coupling surface.

[0073] In some embodiments, the first coupling surface has a ring.

[0074] In some embodiments, the second coupling surface has a hook.

[0075] According to another aspect, an enhanced tiling assembly is provided, the tiling assembly comprising: a first tiling; a second tiling; and a stabilizing material layer disposed between the first and second tilings.

[0076] In some embodiments, the first tile has multiple sides, and the tile assembly further includes: a first attachment member disposed on at least a first side of the multiple sides; and a second attachment member disposed on at least a second side of the multiple sides, wherein the first attachment member is configured to engage with a corresponding second attachment member on an adjacent tile assembly, and wherein the second attachment member is configured to engage with a corresponding first attachment member on an adjacent tile assembly.

[0077] In some embodiments, the stabilizing material is one of glass fiber, polyethylene terephthalate, steel, aluminum, or foam.

[0078] According to another aspect, a tiling system for covering a surface is provided, comprising: a first tiling assembly connected to a second tiling assembly via a connector, each tiling assembly including a first tile stacked on the second tile, the first and second tiles being joined to a reinforcing material disposed between them; wherein the connector includes a first component and a second component complementary to the first component. The first component is mounted to the first tiling assembly, and the second component is mounted to the second tiling assembly.

[0079] In some embodiments, the first and second tiles are ceramic tiles.

[0080] In some embodiments, when the first tiling assembly and the second tiling assembly are connected, the side of the first tiling assembly having the first component is opposite to the side of the second tiling assembly having the second component.

[0081] In some embodiments, the first tiling assembly has a first component on two adjacent sides of the first tiling assembly, and the second tiling assembly has a second component on two adjacent sides of the second tiling assembly.

[0082] In some embodiments, the first tiling assembly has a first component on two opposite sides of the first tiling assembly, and the second tiling assembly has a second component on two opposite sides of the second tiling assembly.

[0083] In some embodiments, the first tiling component has a first part on all sides of the first tiling component.

[0084] In some embodiments, the second tiling component has second parts on all sides of the second tiling component.

[0085] In some embodiments, the first component of the connector is a hook, and the second component of the connector is a groove.

[0086] In some embodiments, the first component of the connector is a tongue, and the second component of the connector is a channel.

[0087] In some embodiments, the connector is formed of a polymer material.

[0088] In some embodiments, the reinforcing material is an orthotropic glass fiber material.

[0089] In some embodiments, the exposed surfaces of the first tile of the first tile assembly and the first tile of the second tile assembly are flush.

[0090] In some embodiments, the tiling system includes a foam pad that is bonded to the exposed surface of a second tile of a first tiling assembly.

[0091] In some embodiments, the first tiling component and the second tiling component define a gap between them.

[0092] In some embodiments, the gap is approximately 3 / 16".

[0093] In some embodiments, the second tile of the first tile assembly has a first coupling surface for releasably mounting the first and second tile assemblies to a second coupling surface complementary to the first coupling surface.

[0094] In some embodiments, the first coupling surface has a ring.

[0095] In some embodiments, the second coupling surface has a hook.

[0096] According to another aspect, a method for covering a surface is provided, the method comprising: joining a pair of first and second tiles to a reinforcing material disposed therebetween, the first tiles being stacked on the second tiles to define a first tile assembly and a second tile assembly; and connecting the first tile assembly and the second tile assembly via a connector to define a tile system, the connector having a first part and a second part complementary to the first part, wherein the first tile assembly has the first part and the second tile assembly has the second part.

[0097] In some embodiments, the first and second tiles are ceramic tiles.

[0098] In some embodiments, when the first tiling component and the second tiling component are connected, the side of the first tiling component having the first component is opposite to the side of the second tiling component having the second component.

[0099] In some embodiments, the exposed surfaces of the first tile of the first tile assembly and the first tile of the second tile assembly are horizontal.

[0100] In some embodiments, the method includes defining a gap between the first tiling component and the second tiling component when connecting the first tiling component to the second tiling component.

[0101] In some embodiments, the gap is approximately 3 / 16".

[0102] In some embodiments, the method includes mounting a tiling assembly to the surface by connecting a first coupling surface of a first tiling assembly to a second coupling surface of the surface, wherein the second coupling surface is complementary to the first coupling surface.

[0103] In some embodiments, the first coupling surface has a ring.

[0104] In some embodiments, the second coupling surface has a hook. Attached Figure Description

[0105] In the accompanying drawings illustrating an example embodiment,

[0106] Figure 1A-1C This is a schematic diagram of the collage components;

[0107] Figure 2A-2C It has another attachment feature Figure 1A-1C A schematic diagram of the collage components;

[0108] Figures 3A-3D It has another attachment feature Figure 1A-1C A schematic diagram of the collage components;

[0109] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the collage system;

[0110] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the collage system;

[0111] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating the edges of the collage;

[0112] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the attachment features of the collage;

[0113] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the attachment features of the collage component;

[0114] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the attachment features of the collage component;

[0115] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary male attachment feature and an exemplary female attachment feature;

[0116] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of an example male attachment feature and an example female attachment feature connected together;

[0117] Figure 12A This is a schematic diagram of another attachment feature of the collage component;

[0118] Figure 12B This is a schematic diagram of another attachment feature in an example embodiment of the collage component;

[0119] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of another attachment feature of the collage component;

[0120] Figure 14 and Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of another attachment feature of the collage component;

[0121] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of another attachment feature of the collage component;

[0122] Figure 17 These are schematic diagrams of other examples of attached features for collage components;

[0123] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of another attachment feature of the collage component;

[0124] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of another attachment feature of the collage component;

[0125] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram of two collage components connected together by attachment features;

[0126] Figure 21 yes Figure 20 A schematic diagram of the male attachment feature;

[0127] Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram of the attachment feature that connects two collage components together;

[0128] Figure 23 This is a schematic diagram of a collage system consisting of four collage components;

[0129] Figure 24 This is a schematic diagram of two collage components joined together by attachment features;

[0130] Figure 25 This is a schematic diagram of a collage component with attachment features;

[0131] Figure 26 This is a schematic diagram of a collage component with attachment features;

[0132] Figure 27 This is a schematic diagram of the collage components;

[0133] Figure 28 It is a schematic diagram of a collage assembly having a male attachment feature connected to the female attachment feature;

[0134] Figure 29 This is a schematic diagram of two tiling components connected together by a male attachment feature and a female attachment feature to form a tiling system;

[0135] Figures 30-34 Depicting separation from each other Figure 29 Collage components;

[0136] Figure 35 This is a diagram illustrating the attachment of a collage component to another collage component to form a collage system;

[0137] Figure 36 This is a diagram illustrating the attachment of a collage component to another collage component to form a collage system;

[0138] Figure 37 This is a diagram illustrating the attachment of a collage component to another collage component to form a collage system;

[0139] Figure 38 This is a schematic diagram of the collage system;

[0140] Figure 39 This is a diagram illustrating the attachment of a collage component to another collage component to form a collage system;

[0141] Figure 40 This is a schematic diagram of a collage component with two collages;

[0142] Figure 41 It is a schematic diagram of two collage components that are connected together;

[0143] Figure 42 These are two exploded views of a collage component with two collages;

[0144] Figure 43 It is a schematic diagram of two collage components with two tiles, wherein a stabilizer is connected to the collage components;

[0145] Figure 44 This is a schematic diagram of a collage system with nine collage components connected together;

[0146] Figure 45 It is a schematic diagram of two collage components with two collages, where circles connect to the collage components;

[0147] Figure 46 This is a schematic diagram of a collage component manufactured by molding it into the collage using a stabilizer;

[0148] Figure 47 This is a schematic diagram of the tools used to manufacture collage components;

[0149] Figure 48 yes Figure 47 A schematic diagram of the tools used to manufacture collage components;

[0150] Figure 49 It is by Figure 47 A schematic diagram of the collage components made using tools;

[0151] Figure 50 This is a schematic diagram of the temperature profiles of the plastic and tools during the manufacturing of the tiling components;

[0152] Figure 51This is a schematic diagram of a molding backing plate used to manufacture tiling components;

[0153] Figure 52 This is a schematic diagram of a collage used to manufacture collage components;

[0154] Figure 53 This is a schematic diagram of pressure welding the tile and backing plate to manufacture the tile assembly;

[0155] Figure 54 This is a schematic diagram of the manufactured collage components;

[0156] Figure 55 It is a table that summarizes the characteristics of injection molding, variotherm, and pressure welding processes;

[0157] Figure 56 This is a schematic diagram of the tiles and backing panels that are welded together to form a tile assembly;

[0158] Figure 57 This is a schematic diagram of a cam used in a collage component manufacturing tool;

[0159] Figure 58 This is a schematic diagram of a tiled assembly that has been pressure-welded.

[0160] Figures 59-63 This is a schematic diagram of a tiled assembly that has been pressure-welded.

[0161] Figure 64 This is a schematic diagram of a tiled assembly that has been pressure-welded.

[0162] Figure 65 It is a schematic diagram of a tiling assembly with tiling, stabilizer and female attachment features;

[0163] Figure 66 This is a schematic diagram of the base assembly;

[0164] Figure 67 This is a schematic diagram of the base assembly plate;

[0165] Figure 68 This is a schematic diagram of a base assembly for a plate that can be mounted horizontally and vertically;

[0166] Figure 69 This is a schematic diagram of a base assembly for a plate that can be mounted horizontally and vertically;

[0167] Figure 70 This is a schematic diagram of a base assembly for a plate that can be mounted horizontally and vertically;

[0168] Figure 71 This is a schematic diagram of the base assembly plate;

[0169] Figure 72 This is a schematic diagram of the connecting parts of the base assembly;

[0170] Figures 73-74 This is a schematic diagram of the connecting parts of the base assembly;

[0171] Figure 75 This is a schematic diagram of the connecting parts of the base assembly;

[0172] Figure 76 This is a schematic diagram of a base assembly that assembles the plates and connecting parts together;

[0173] Figure 77 This is a schematic diagram of a base assembly with gaps on a plate;

[0174] Figure 78 This is a schematic diagram of the base assembly;

[0175] Figure 79 This is a schematic diagram of the base assembly;

[0176] Figure 80 This is a schematic diagram of the base assembly;

[0177] Figure 81 This is a schematic diagram of the assembled base assembly;

[0178] Figure 82 This is a schematic diagram of the assembled base assembly;

[0179] Figure 83 This is a schematic diagram of the corner of the base assembly plate;

[0180] Figure 84 This is a schematic diagram of the corner of the base assembly plate;

[0181] Figure 85 This is a schematic diagram of the base assembly plate;

[0182] Figure 86 This is a schematic diagram of a base assembly having another attachment feature;

[0183] Figure 87 This is a schematic diagram of the multiple plates and connecting parts of the base assembly;

[0184] Figure 88-92 This is a schematic diagram of another attachment feature of the base assembly plate;

[0185] Figures 93-95 This is a schematic diagram of the assembled base components;

[0186] Figures 96-97 This is a schematic diagram of a base assembly having another attachment feature;

[0187] Figure 98-101 This is a schematic diagram of the attachment features of the base assembly;

[0188] Figure 102 This is a schematic diagram of another plate of the base assembly;

[0189] Figure 103 This is a schematic diagram of the four plates of the base assembly connected by connecting parts;

[0190] Figure 104 This is a schematic diagram of a plate with a base assembly having recesses and through holes;

[0191] Figure 105 This is a schematic diagram of the base assembly plate;

[0192] Figures 106-109 This is a schematic diagram of mounting the base assembly onto the surface;

[0193] Figure 110 This is a schematic diagram of the tiling system being installed onto the base assembly;

[0194] Figure 111 This is a schematic diagram of the wall used to mount the base assembly;

[0195] Figure 112 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for assembling and covering a surface using a tiling system;

[0196] Figure 113 This is a flowchart illustrating a method of mounting a tiling system onto a surface using a base assembly;

[0197] Figure 114 This is a diagram illustrating the printing process on the floor using laid-out vinyl.

[0198] Figure 115 This is a schematic diagram of a circular object on a collage component;

[0199] Figure 116 This is a diagram of the corner of the collage;

[0200] Figure 117 This is a schematic diagram of the collage components; and

[0201] Figure 118 This is a schematic diagram of an example embodiment of the collage component. Detailed Implementation

[0202] A tiling assembly and a tiling system are disclosed. The tiling assembly may include a first tile. The bottom surface of the tile may engage with a stabilizer to place the tiling assembly on a floor. The tiling assembly may include a connector having attachment features on the side of the tile. The attachment features may be integrally formed with the stabilizer or may be individually engaged with the tile. The attachment features may be complementary to each other, allowing the tiling assemblies to be joined together to form the tiling system. The tiling system may include two tiles with a fiberglass stabilizer between them. The tiling system can be used to cover surfaces such as floors. The tiling system can be placed on a floor without the need for mortar to bond the tiling system to the floor. Therefore, when installed on a floor, the tiling system can "free float" and self-level. Furthermore, the tiling system can be mounted to a wall to cover the wall. A mount assembly including boards and trays can be mounted to a surface such as a wall, allowing the tiling system to be mounted to the mount assembly to cover the surface. Tiled components can be used as a subsurface or surface.

[0203] Figure 1A-1C This is a schematic diagram of the tiling component 100. The tiling component 100 includes a tile 102 and a stabilizer 104. Figure 1A-1C As shown, stabilizer 104 is engaged to the bottom surface of tile 102 such that the top surface is exposed when mounted on a surface such as a floor or wall. Stabilizer 104 can be engaged to tile 102 using molding (e.g., injection molding), welding (e.g., pressure welding, ultrasonic welding, vibration welding, contact welding), adhesives, etc. When placed on a floor, stabilizer 104 of tile assembly 100 can contact one or more points on the floor.

[0204] The collage component 100 can have different shapes. For example, the collage component 100 can be a roughly square shape. As another example, the collage component 100 can typically be a circle, triangle, rectangle, parallelogram, pentagon, hexagon, heptagon, octagon, and irregular shape with one or more curved sides, etc.

[0205] Based on the shape of the tiling component 100, the tiling 102 or the stabilizer 104 may have a shape similar to that of the tiling component 100. For example, if the tiling component 100 has a generally square shape, the tiling 102 or the stabilizer 104 may also have a generally square shape. If the tiling 102 is not a generally square shape, the tiling 102 may be engaged with the stabilizer 104, which has a generally square shape, so that the tiling component 100 has a generally square shape.

[0206] Tiles 102 can be made from a wide variety of materials. For example, tiles 102 can be resilient flooring, which can be made of marmoleum (sheet products or modules), vinyl (sheet products or modules), luxury vinyl sheets (LVT; some LVTs may have textured surfaces, while others may have smooth surfaces), or vinyl composite panels (VCT). As another example, tiles 102 can be made from narrow or wide tufted carpets, patterned or woven carpets, or carpet tiles. Carpet materials can be glued, double-stitched, or podded, and smoothed as needed. In some embodiments, tiles 102 can be Laminam® slabs. As another example, tiles 102 can be laminated bricks, ceramic tiles, porcelain tiles, stone tiles, marble tiles, etc.

[0207] The collage 102 of the collage component 100 can be pre-cut, or the materials used in the collage 102 can be purchased to manufacture and cut the collage 102 independently. The collage materials (e.g., ceramic, marble, or porcelain in sheet form) can be cut into sheets (sheet concept) and joined using stabilizer 104.

[0208] Example dimensions of tile 102 can range from 3 / 8” x 3 / 8” to 24” x 48”, and can be larger or smaller. Example thickness of tile 102 can range from 1 / 8” to 1 / 2”, and can be thicker or thinner. For example, the thickness of tile 102 can be 2mm to 4mm. The size and thickness of tile 102 can affect the stress required to break tile 102. The size and thickness of tile 102 can be based on the manufacturing process used to make tile assembly 100. For example, in the case where injection molding is used to manufacture tile assembly 100 (e.g., joining tile 102 with stabilizer 104), the size and thickness of tile 102 can be such that tile 102 does not break during the injection molding process.

[0209] The collage component 100 can be used in commercial or residential markets. The type of materials used in the collage component 100 can be based on the specific market in which it is used.

[0210] In addition to being mounted on a floor, the tile assembly 100 can also be mounted to a wall using a base assembly that may include boards and trays, as described in more detail herein. If the tile assembly 100 is mounted on a surface other than a floor (e.g., a wall), the tile assembly 100 can be designed to have a reduced weight.

[0211] In some embodiments, the surface of the tile 102, which can be seen or touched, may have a design. For example, the surface of the tile 102 may have color, design, printing, glazing, smoothness, or texture.

[0212] Stabilizer 104 can be bonded to the back of tile 102, such as through co-injection or a second-process injection. Stabilizer 104 may have a bubble feature. This bubble feature can provide a water path or moisture path, aiding in the self-leveling of tile assembly 100, facilitating easy attachment of tile assembly 100 to another tile assembly 100, and improving the sound insulation of the tile assembly. Stabilizer 104 or the bubble feature of stabilizer 104 may be made of a flexible or compressible polymer.

[0213] Stabilizer 104 may be molded, extruded, formed, and / or attached to tile 102.

[0214] Stabilizer 104 can be manufactured using a variety of materials. The material of stabilizer 104 can readily form strong or unbreakable bonds, can be non-fractureable (e.g., high-reliability polymers or crystalline products), and can be formed into shapes with detailed design and dimensions (e.g., capable of forming small recesses from the tile surface to the top of the grout surface). Stabilizer 104 can be made of foam, or it can be made of polymers such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or glass fiber, or it can be a metallic material such as steel. When stabilizer 104 is made of a polymer, the polymer can be flexible and compressible. Stabilizer 104 may include adhesives such as glue, epoxy resin, polyester, polyurethane, silicone, cement, etc., to secure the tile assembly 100 to a surface such as a wall. In some embodiments, stabilizer 104 may include rings for hook engagement with a base assembly to secure the tile assembly 100 to a surface such as a wall. In some embodiments, the stabilizer can be steel, aluminum, or a combination thereof.

[0215] Stabilizer 104 can be manufactured using molding and 3D printing, among other methods.

[0216] When certain F&B and lifecycle cost advantages are more important to end-user customers, the initial deployment of Tiling Component 100 can be based on the entire market or a portion of the market.

[0217] The tiling assembly 100 can replace a segment of the carpet tiling market with the ability to deliver high-performance atmospheric stability in new narrow and wide carpet products. The stabilizer 104 may include a ring for attachment to a hook to secure the tiling assembly 100 to a hook-equipped surface. Various different features can be added based on the material used for the tiling assembly 100 and the surface on which it is mounted. Various functions can be added to specifically address certain products across all product categories.

[0218] The collage component 100 can replace traditional collages with "free-floating" narrow or wide items strategically designed with printed or tufted materials. These materials can be physically cut to order.

[0219] In some embodiments, the ability to deliver high-performance atmospheric stability with new narrow and wide carpet products can replace a portion of the carpet patchwork market. In some embodiments, improvements can be made to the backing material used for encapsulation and ring lamination, and the #2 improved boards and discs can be used initially.

[0220] In some embodiments, improved next-generation #2 boards and trays (e.g., weight-reduced with added filling) can be used to achieve Class #1 and European standards equivalent to Class #1. In the case where tile 102 is carpet, a new generation of #2 boards and trays can be used, which features improvements, namely weight reduction through design, to achieve Class #2.

[0221] like Figure 1A-1C As shown, the edge of stabilizer 104 can be approximately flush with the edge of tile 102. In some embodiments, stabilizer 104 can extend beyond the edge of tile 102, such as... Figure 2A-2C As shown.

[0222] In some embodiments, stabilizer 104 may be a collar backing made of a standard collar material. In some embodiments, an adhesive such as a rubber adhesive may be used to bond stabilizer 104 to patch 102. In some embodiments, stabilizer 104 may be attached by hand.

[0223] In some embodiments, tiling assembly 100 may include attachment features 106, which may be complementary to attachment features 106 of another tiling assembly 100, for connecting tiling assembly 100 to the other tiling assembly 100 to define a tiling system. The connection between tiling assemblies 100 may be a mechanical connection. The attachment features 106 of one tiling assembly and the attachment features 106 of the other tiling assembly 100 may together form a connector for connecting tiling assembly 100 to the other tiling assembly 100.

[0224] When a tile assembly 100 is attached to another tile assembly 100, the attachment feature 106 allows for mechanical stability. The attachment feature 106 can have a visual appearance similar to the cement grout of a conventional tile installation. The attachment feature 106 can provide a degree of protection against water.

[0225] The attachment feature 106 of the tile assembly 100 can be sized and designed such that the attachment feature 106 does not extend above the top surface of the tile assembly 100 (which may be defined by the top surface of the tile 102) or below the bottom surface of the tile assembly 100 (which may be defined by the bottom surface of the tile 102 or the stabilizer 104).

[0226] The attachment feature 106 may be waterproof. When the attachment feature 106 of one tile assembly 100 is attached to the attachment feature 106 of another tile assembly 100, the connector may be a watertight seal. In some embodiments, a rubber seal may be applied to the attachment feature 106 or the connector to form a watertight seal or improve the water resistance of the attachment feature 106 or the connector. The material used for the attachment feature 106 may retain its shape so that the pressure generated between the two tile assemblies 100 when they are connected to each other can be maintained.

[0227] In some embodiments, the attachment feature 106 may be integrally formed with the stabilizer 104, such as in Figure 2A-2C or Figures 3A-3D As shown. In some embodiments, the attachment feature 106 may be detached from the stabilizer 104.

[0228] The attachment feature 106 can be manufactured using, for example, 3D printing, injection molding, or other generative manufacturing methods. In some embodiments, the attachment feature 106 can be injection molded, and then a winding process can be used to form the actual engagement / attachment feature.

[0229] The attachment feature 106 may be glued to the tile 102, molded to the tile 102, or bonded to the tile 102, such as to the edge of the tile 102. In some embodiments, the attachment feature may be made of a magnetic material. In some embodiments, the attachment feature 106 may include one or more magnets or magnetic elements that ensure connection and / or supplement the resistance provided by the mechanical interconnection of the two tiles 102.

[0230] The attachment feature 106 can be manufactured using a variety of materials similar to stabilizer 104. The material of attachment feature 106 may readily form strong or unbreakable bonds, may not break (e.g., high-probability product polymers or crystalline products), and may be formed into shapes with detailed design and dimensions (e.g., capable of forming small recesses from the tile surface to the top of the grout surface). Attachment feature 106 may be made of foam, or may be made of polymers such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), magnetic materials, or glass fibers, or may be a metallic material such as steel. In the case where attachment feature 106 is made of a polymer, the polymer may be flexible and compressible. Attachment feature 106 may include an adhesive to secure it to tile assembly 100.

[0231] In some embodiments, a ring may be engaged with stabilizer 104 to mount tile assembly 100 onto a corresponding hook on a surface such as a base assembly. In some embodiments, the ring may be adhered to stabilizer 104, which may be made of foam. Stabilizer 104 may be attached to tile 102 using adhesive and may also be attached to tile 102 by hand.

[0232] When designing the attachment feature 106 (e.g., its shape, size, design, appearance) or attaching the attachment feature 106 to the tile 102, the tolerances of the tile 102 (e.g., length, width, angle defined between the length and width) may need to be taken into consideration. When designing the attachment feature 106 or attaching the attachment feature to the tile 102, the cooling or shrinkage of the attachment feature 106 may need to be taken into consideration.

[0233] The attachment feature 106 may have various designs, such as shape, size, design, or appearance. The attachment feature 106 may be colored. The attachment feature 106 can be viewed as resembling grout. The attachment feature 106 may have recesses for engaging with the tile assembly 102 or for engaging with another attachment feature 106. In some embodiments, the attachment feature 106 may include corners or lips. Corners or lips may be invisible and can help adjust the shape of the tile assembly 100, and may be a new tolerance for the tile assembly 102.

[0234] The attachment features 106 of the collage components 100 can be complementary to each other to connect the collage components 100. For example, such as Figures 3A-3D As shown, the attachment feature 106 can be a male attachment feature 108 or a female attachment feature 110. As another example, the attachment feature 106 can have a click-lock feature to lock with another attachment feature 106. A "click" sound can indicate that the attachment feature 106 is locked. When the attachment features 106 are connected together, the seam defined between the attachment features 106 can be concealed. Figures 3A-3D As shown, the tile 102 can be set in the stabilizer using, for example, an adhesive. The setting of the tile 102 to the stabilizer 104 or the grouting feature can provide additional stability, allowing the attachment between the tile components 100 to remain relatively horizontal, even on uneven surfaces or when there is a height difference between the tile components 100.

[0235] The attachment feature 106 is designed to allow for the use of minimal force in connecting the tiling assembly 100 and assembling the tiling system, or to eliminate the need for excessive holding force. Furthermore, the attachment feature 106 can have a robust design, enabling the tiling assembly 100 to be used in harsh conditions, such as in construction sites. The attachment feature 106 can be designed to allow the connected tiling assembly 100 to be disconnected or detached without damaging it, thus allowing the tiling assembly 100 to be reused multiple times.

[0236] In some embodiments, the length of the attachment feature 106 extending from the edge of the tile 102 may be no greater than 3 / 8” or no greater than 3 / 16” to provide artificial grouting. In some embodiments, the length of the attachment feature 106 extending from the edge of the tile 102 may be 3 / 16”. The length of the attachment feature 106 extending from the edge of the tile 102 may be based on the location where the tile assembly 100 can be used. For example, the length of the attachment feature 106 may be such that a typical wheel (e.g., the wheel of a machine, bicycle, stroller, etc.) can roll on the attachment feature 106, or the heel of a stiletto shoe can step on the attachment feature 106, and the stress experienced by the attachment feature 106 may be such that the attachment feature 106 does not break or become damaged, or does not cause the attached tile assembly 100 to break or become damaged.

[0237] In some embodiments, the attachment feature 106 may be on all sides of the tile assembly 100. In some embodiments, the attachment feature 106 may be present on opposite or adjacent sides of the tile assembly 100. In some embodiments, the attachment feature 106 may have a locking function. In some embodiments, the attachment feature 106 may have tongue and groove features.

[0238] In some embodiments, the tile 102 and the attachment feature 106 can be injection molded together in one industry. In some embodiments, the attachment feature 106 can be engaged to the tile 102 at the bottom surface of the tile 102 and at the edge of the tile 102. In some embodiments, the attachment feature 106 can be engaged to the edge of the tile 102.

[0239] During the manufacturing process of tile assembly 100 (e.g., injection molding), the components of tile assembly 100 (e.g., tile 102, stabilizer 104, attachment feature 106, etc.) should be able to withstand the stresses of the manufacturing process without damage, breakage, or failure. When tile assembly 100 is mounted on a surface such as a floor or wall, tile assembly 100 should be able to withstand high impact and rolling loads.

[0240] In some embodiments, the attachment feature 106 may be injection molded onto the tile 102 against the bottom surface and edge of the tile 102, with or without the stabilizer 104. The tile 102 may be 2 mm, 4 mm, or 8 mm thick.

[0241] During the manufacture of stabilizer 104 or attachment feature 106, shrinkage or cooling factors may need to be taken into account to avoid undesirable concave or convex surface issues.

[0242] In some embodiments, the attachment feature 106 can be joined to the tile 102 via an injection molding process, or a secondary process can be used to provide a realistic visual effect of grouting. When the attachment features 106 of the tile assembly 100 are joined together, the attachment features 106 may define a line on the top surface of the attachment feature 106. In some embodiments, this line may meet at one of the far edges where the tile assemblies 100 are gathered together, thereby concealing the possibility of a visually perceptible grouting line.

[0243] The top surface of the attachment feature 106 may have micro-features to help produce the appearance of conventional grouting. The top surface of the attachment feature 106 may be recessed from the top surface of the tile 102. The attachment feature 106 (e.g., a latch, tongue, and groove) can fully lock the tile assembly 100 together to perform under high stress and harsh conditions. The attachment feature 106 may be designed to allow the tile assembly 100 to separate from each other without damaging the attachment feature if the tile assembly 100 can be detached for replacement, repair, or cleaning. When the stabilizer 104 or the attachment feature 106 is engaged with other attachment features 106 and under high stress or rolling stress, the material (e.g., a polymer) used to form the stabilizer 104 or the attachment feature 106 may be able to maintain its integrity.

[0244] If there are gaps or depressions in the floor beneath the tiling assembly 100 or the tiling subsystem (or if the floor beneath the tiling assembly 100 or the tiling subsystem is generally uneven), the stress on the tiling assembly 100 from a particular force can be greater than when the floor beneath the tiling assembly 100 is relatively flat. The material used for the stabilizer 104 or the attachment feature 106 is such that it maintains its integrity and does not crack or break if the floor beneath the tiling assembly 100 or the tiling subsystem is uneven.

[0245] In some embodiments, the attachment feature 106 may frame the tile 102. For example, if the tile 102 is square, the attachment feature 106 may have four sides similar to the tile 102, and opposite or adjacent sides of the attachment feature 106 may have a connection portion for connection to another tile assembly 100.

[0246] As in Figure 2A-2C As depicted, the attachment feature 106 may be a generally flat surface. For engagement with another tiling assembly 100, the attachment feature 106 may have an adhesive, hook or loop, or another feature that can engage with the attachment feature 106 of another tiling assembly 100 to engage the tiling assemblies together.

[0247] As in Figures 3A-3D As depicted, the attachment features 106 of the tiling component 100 can be complementary to connect the tiling component 100. For example, the attachment feature 106 can be a male attachment feature 108 or a female attachment feature 110. Figures 3A-3D As shown, a male attachment feature 108 is located at one end of the tile assembly 100, and a female attachment feature 110 is located at the other end. In some embodiments, the male attachment feature 108 and the female attachment feature 110 may be located on adjacent sides of the tile assembly 100. The male attachment feature 108 of one tile assembly 100 may be received in the female attachment feature 110 of another tile assembly 100 to join the tile assemblies 100 together.

[0248] Figure 4This is a schematic cross-sectional view of tiling systems 400a and 400b. Tiling system 400a includes two tiling components 100 having a tile 102 and a stabilizer 104 that engage with attachment features 106. Tiling system 400b is generally similar to tiling system 400a, except that the tile 102 of tiling system 400a does not have a tapered edge, while the tile 102 of tiling system 400b has a tapered edge 408. Therefore, attachment features 106 may be designed such that they can attach to the tapered edge 408. In some embodiments, attachment features 106 include magnetic elements that enhance the connection strength between tiling systems 400a and 400b. In any of the embodiments described herein, the various attachments 106, as well as the male connector 108 and female connector 110, may be made entirely of magnetic materials or include magnetic elements for enhancing the attractive force between the connected tiling systems.

[0249] The attachment feature 106 of the tile assembly 100 can be prefabricated and can be used with the free-floating installation of the stable tile 102. The attachment feature 106 can be pre-attached at the factory or on-site, or not attached to the tile 102 at all.

[0250] In some embodiments, the attachment feature 106 of the tiling assembly 100 is a separate unit that joins the tiling assembly 100 together. The attachment feature 106 may be designed and configured to contact and connect to the tiling assembly 100.

[0251] In some embodiments, the attachment feature 106 may be prefabricated. In some embodiments, the attachment feature 106 may be a liquid or a partially liquid and may be applied on-site.

[0252] Stabilizer 104 may include features (e.g., hooks or loops, or adhesive) for mounting to a surface. Stabilizer 104 may be attached to a surface having another of the hooks or loops, or may be bonded to a surface by adhesive. In some embodiments, adhesive may be on the surface, and the mounting assembly 100 may be bonded to the surface.

[0253] In some embodiments, the tile assembly 100 may not have a stabilizer 104. In some embodiments, a stabilizer 104 may be present if needed (e.g., if the surface on which the tile assembly 100 is mounted is uneven).

[0254] In some embodiments, the stabilizer 104 may be embedded in the tile 102 (e.g., at the center of the tile 102). In some embodiments, the stabilizer 104 may be mounted between two tiles 102.

[0255] In some embodiments, where the existing floor substrate is fairly flat, prefabricated attachment features 106 can be used on at least two sides of the tile 102 (either pre-attached to the floor 102 or attached on-site during installation) to allow the tile assembly 100 to be installed without any attachment to the floor or existing substrate. In such embodiments, a resilient, sound-insulating leveling layer can be used alone or attached (e.g., as...). Figure 118 (As shown).

[0256] Figure 118 This is an example embodiment of the tile assembly 11800. As depicted, the tile assembly 11800 includes a first tile 11802a, a second tile 11802, and an optional sound-insulating layer 11850, separated by a stabilizer 11804, all of which are enclosed by an attachment feature 11806. In some embodiments, the first tile 11802a may have a decorative covering. In some embodiments, the stabilizer 11804 may be a fiberglass layer having an adhesive on one or both sides for bonding to the tile. In some embodiments, the sound-insulating layer 11850 is made of cork or another material suitable for sound insulation. In some embodiments, the attachment feature 11806 has an adhesive on its inner surface for bonding to other elements 11802a, 11802b, 11804, and 11850. In some embodiments, the first tile 11802a, the stabilizing layer 1104, and the second tile 11802b may have a thickness of approximately 50-75 mm when stacked. More specifically, the stack thickness can be approximately 0.5-1.0 inches. More specifically, the thickness can be approximately 5-7 mm. In some embodiments, the stabilizing layer 11804 can be a compressible polymer, foam, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or a metallic material such as steel or aluminum.

[0257] In some embodiments, the attachment feature 106 may be pre-applied and adhesively attached on-site, may be applied off-site or pre-applied on-site, may be pre-fabricated on the tile 102, or may be joined to the tile 102 under pressure without the use of adhesive.

[0258] Figure 5 This is another schematic diagram of the cross-section of the tiling system 500. The tiling system 500 has tapered edges.

[0259] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary edge of tile 102 of tile component 100. Different types of edges are possible. For example, such as... Figure 6 As shown, tile 602a has a recess on its edge, tile 602b has a curved edge, tile 602c has a smaller recess on its edge, and tile 602d has a V-shaped edge.

[0260] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the attachment features of tile 102. For example, attachment feature 706a may be prefabricated and may be pre-attached to tile 102. For example, attachment feature 706b may be prefabricated and may or may not have an adhesive layer for bonding with tile 102. For example, attachment feature 706c may have adhesive layers on both sides for bonding with tile 102 and with attachment features of another tile assembly 100.

[0261] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the attachment features 806a of the tile 102. In some embodiments, the attachment features 806a may be prefabricated and may be pre-attached or field-attached on all sides of the tile 102. As shown, the tile 102 is square, so each of the four sides of the tile has an attachment feature 806a. In some embodiments, the attachment features 806b of the tile assembly 100 may define a seam 808 therebetween. The seam 808 may or may not have an adhesive for joining the tile assemblies 100 together. In some embodiments, the attachment features 806c may be prefabricated and may have hooks and loops or adhesive to improve ease of installation and reduce the likelihood of upward capillary action. In some embodiments, the attachment features 806d may extend beyond the edge of the tile 102 to create additional "pressure" for tightly engaging the tile assembly 100 or to conceal the seam defined by the attachment features 106 of the tile assembly 100.

[0262] The attachment feature 106 may be made of a rigid or flexible material. In some embodiments, the attachment feature 106 may have some flexibility and / or elasticity to allow pressure to be applied when one tile assembly 100 is mounted side-by-side to another tile assembly 100. The flexibility and / or elasticity of the attachment feature 106 may also provide for absorbing some movement between the tile assemblies 100 during installation.

[0263] In some embodiments, a slip sheet may be used to provide the ability to press the patch 102 against a flexible prefabricated or molded attachment feature 106. This can be used with attachment features 106 of various shapes or designs.

[0264] The mold of stabilizer 104 can be used for one-step or two-step manufacturing of the tiling assembly 100, and may or may not have attachment features 106 on the mold.

[0265] In some embodiments, the surface of the attachment feature 106, which can be seen or touched, may have a design. For example, the surface of the attachment feature 106 may have color, design, printing, glazing, smoothing, or texturing.

[0266] In some embodiments, the tile assembly 100 may be waterproof or may be coated with a material to make it waterproof. In some embodiments, the tile assembly 100 may be mounted on a wall, such as in a shower, to protect the wall from liquids.

[0267] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the attachment feature 106 of the tiling assembly 100. The tiling assembly 100 may have a tile 102, a stabilizer 104 (which may be made of a polymer such as PET), and the attachment feature 106. Two tiling assemblies 100 can be joined together using the attachment feature 106 to form a tiling system 900. Figure 9 As shown, the attachment feature 106 can be a male attachment feature 108 or a female attachment feature 110. Some sides of the tile assembly 100 may have male attachment features 108, and other sides of the tile assembly 100 may have female attachment features 110. For example, as Figure 9 As shown, when the tiling assembly 100 has four sides such as a square, the male attachment feature 108 can be on an adjacent side and the female attachment feature 110 can be on an adjacent side, or the side with the male attachment feature 108 is opposite to the side with the female attachment feature 110. Two tiling assemblies 100 can be connected together using the male attachment feature 108 and the female attachment feature 110 to form a tiling assembly 900.

[0268] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of example male attachment feature 108 and example female attachment feature 110. (See attached diagram.) Figure 10 As shown, the male attachment feature 108 may have a protrusion with adjacent vertical side faces. The male attachment feature 108 may have a generally rectangular protrusion. Similarly, the female attachment feature 110 may have a recess with adjacent vertical side faces. The female attachment feature 110 may have a generally rectangular recess. In some embodiments, such as Figure 10 As shown, attachment features 106 (e.g., male or female attachment features 106 or 108) of the tile assembly 100 may extend along the entire side of the tile assembly 100. In some embodiments, attachment features 106 (e.g., male or female attachment features 106 or 108) may be located only at certain locations on the side of the tile assembly 100. For example, female attachment features 110 may extend along the entire side of the tile assembly 100. In another example, male attachment features 108 may be located only at one or more discrete locations on the side of the tile assembly 100.

[0269] Figure 11 It is a schematic diagram of an exemplary male attachment feature 108 and an exemplary female attachment feature 110 connected together.

[0270] Figure 12A-12B This is a schematic diagram of other exemplary attachment features of the tiling assembly 100. Tiling assemblies 1200a and 1200b have a locking attachment feature 106. (As shown...) Figure 12A-12B As shown, the curved portion of attachment feature 106 can be received in the distorted portion of another attachment feature 106. Tiling assembly 1200a or tiling assembly 1200b may need to be angled relative to the other so that tiling assemblies 1200a and 1200b slide together for engaging attachment features 106. When attachment features 106 are engaged, tiling assembly 1200a or tiling assembly 1200b can be lowered relative to each other. When tiling assembly 1200a or tiling assembly 1200b is lowered relative to each other, locking attachment features 106 can engage. Their engagement can be indicated by a "click". Figure 12A-12B As depicted, the attachment features 106 of the tiling components 1200a and 1200b can be joined at the edges of the tiling 102 of the tiling components 1200a and 1200b.

[0271] like Figure 12A As depicted, tiling assemblies 1200c and 1200d have male and female attachment features 108 and 110 with tongues and grooves. The male attachment feature 108 of tiling assembly 1200d has a generally grounded protrusion. Similarly, the female attachment feature 110 of tiling assembly 1200c has a generally grounded recess. The opening of the recess in the female attachment feature 110 may be smaller than the largest portion of the male attachment feature 108. In some embodiments, the male attachment feature 108 can elastically deform when it is received in the female attachment feature 110. When the male attachment feature 108 is received in the female attachment feature 110, the male attachment feature 108 can return to its original shape. This can increase the tightness of the connection between the male attachment feature 108 and the female attachment feature 110, and may require additional force to separate tiling assemblies 1200c and 1200d. Figure 12A-12B As depicted, the attachment feature 110 of the tiling assembly 1200c can engage at the edge and bottom of the tile 102 of the tiling assembly. The attachment feature 108 of the tiling assembly 1200d can engage at the edge of the tile 102 of the tiling assembly 1200d.

[0272] like Figure 12AAs shown, the attachment feature 106 of tile assembly 1200a and the attachment feature 110 of tile assembly 1200c may have edges extending from tile assembly 1200a and tile assembly 1200c to tile assembly 1200b and tile assembly 1200d. In some embodiments, the edges of attachment features 106 and 110 may be adjacent to the edges of tile 102 of tile assembly 1200b and tile assembly 1200d to hide or conceal the attachment feature line or seam, which provides a clean and aesthetically pleasing finish when tile assembly 1200a, 1200b, 1200c or 1200d is mounted on a surface.

[0273] As in Figure 12A As depicted, recesses 112 may be present along the edges of the tile 102 of tile assemblies 1200a and 1200c. Recesses 112 may be along one or more edges of the tile 102 of tile assemblies 1200a and 1200c. Recesses 112 may be along all edges of the tile 102 of tile assemblies 1200a and 1200c. In some embodiments, attachment features attached to the edges of the tile 102 having recesses 112 may have corresponding protrusions that are received in the recesses 112 to attach the attachment features to the tile 102. Figure 12A As shown, the attachment feature 106 of the tiling assembly 1200a and the attachment feature 110 of the tiling assembly 1200c have a protrusion that is received in the recess 112 of the tiling 102 of the tiling assembly 1200a and the tiling assembly 1200c.

[0274] In some embodiments, when the tile and attachment features of the tile assembly are joined together, a recess 114 may be defined between the top surface of the tile and the top surface of the attachment feature. For example, as Figure 12A-12B As shown, in tile assemblies 1200a and 1200c, the top surface of tile 102 and the top surfaces of attachment features 106 and 110 define recesses 114. This provides the appearance of conventional grouting when the tile assemblies are mounted on a surface. In some embodiments, the recesses can be masked (e.g., by scoring) to achieve an appearance similar to that of conventional grouting.

[0275] Figure 12B This is a schematic diagram of an alternative embodiment of the tenon-and-groove attachment feature of a tiling component according to some embodiments. Figure 12BIn an example embodiment, the tenon attachment feature includes a magnetic element. As shown, the tenon is a continuous tenon with magnets 1280 and polymers 1281 distributed along its length to form a solid tenon. Similarly, the groove attachment includes complementary magnets 1282, which facilitates a tight and secure connection between the tiling components 1200e and 1200f. In some embodiments, the connection between the tiling components 1200e and 1200f can be strong enough to prevent vertical lifting between the tiling components 1200e and 1200f in the event of an uneven substrate beneath the tiling system. In some embodiments, the magnetic element may be 1 mm thick, 2-3 mm wide, and 10-20 mm long, and is placed in increments of approximately 3-4 inches. The foregoing dimensions represent only example embodiments, and configurations with other dimensions are possible and contemplated herein. In particular, configurations can be selected to meet any conditions required for a particular situation or layout.

[0276] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of another tongue-and-groove attachment feature of the tiling assembly. Tiling assembly 1300a has a female attachment feature 110, and tiling assembly 1300b has a male attachment feature 108. Male attachment feature 108 has a generally circular protrusion, and female attachment feature 110 has a generally circular recess. Attachment features 108 and 110 are designed to provide attachment sufficient to prevent detachment during normal use, but can be detached from tiling assemblies 1300a and 1300b by angular pressure without damaging attachment features 108 and 110.

[0277] As in Figure 13 As depicted in the illustration, as an example, the maximum length feature of the connector defined by attachment features 108 to 110 can be 3 / 16” - 3 / 8”.

[0278] Figure 14 and Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of another attachment feature of the collage component. For example, in Figure 14 As depicted, tiling components 1400a and 1400b have complementary attachment features 106. The attachment features 106 may have a locking feature. In some embodiments, such as... Figure 14 As shown, the attachment feature 106 of the tile assembly 1400a may include a flange or lip 116 to maintain pressure and create a water seal between the attachment features 106 or to increase the water resistance of the connection between the attachment features 106. The attachment feature 106 of the tile assembly 1400b may have a channel 118 for receiving the flange or lip 116.

[0279] Figure 16This is a schematic diagram of another attachment feature of the tiling assembly. The attachment features 106 of the tiling assembly can be complementary and cooperatively configured to connect the tiling components together to form a tiling system. In some embodiments, an adhesive 120 can be used between the attachment features 106 to facilitate the connection of the tiling components.

[0280] In some embodiments, the attachment feature 106 may have a flange 1600. The flange 1600 of one attachment feature 106 may engage with the flange 1600 of another attachment feature 106 to facilitate the connection of the tiling assembly. The flange may be received in a recess 1602 defined in the attachment feature 106.

[0281] Figure 17 These are schematic diagrams illustrating other examples of attached features for collage components. For example... Figure 17 As shown, each of the attachment features 1706a and 1706b has a protrusion and a recess for receiving the protrusion of the other attachment feature. As shown, the protrusion of attachment feature 1706a is below the protrusion of attachment feature 1706b, and the recess of attachment feature 1706a is above the recess of attachment feature 1706b.

[0282] like Figure 17 As shown, attachment features 1706c and 1706d are generally similar to attachment features 1706a and 1706b, except that attachment features 1706c and 1706d also include hooks and loops or pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) for joining attachment features 1706c and 1706d together. One of attachment features 1706c and 1706d may have a hook or loop or PSA, and the other of attachment features 1706c and 1706d may have a corresponding hook or loop or PSA. In some embodiments, the hooks and loops or PSAs for joining attachment features may include one or more magnetic elements. In some embodiments, the hooks and loops may be made entirely of magnetic elements. In some embodiments, the magnetic elements may be distributed in the hooks and loops along with other materials. The magnetic elements may be arranged to provide complementary magnets to generate an attractive force between the hooks and loops.

[0283] like Figure 17 As depicted, the attachment features 1706e and 1706f may be beveled, chamfered, or otherwise shaped to facilitate the connection of the attachment features 1706e and 1706f together.

[0284] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of another attachment feature of the collage component. Figure 18 The attachment feature 106 depicted can be made of a polymer and can have a "locking" feature. For example... Figure 18As shown, the attachment feature 106 may be integrally formed with the stabilizer 104. The stabilizer 104 and the attachment feature 106 may be joined to the tile 102. In some embodiments, the thickness of the stabilizer 104 may be less than 1 / 32” or greater than 1 / 32”. In some embodiments, the thickness of the stabilizer 104 may be 1 / 8” to 1 / 4”. In some embodiments, the thickness of the tile 102 may be approximately 2 mm. In some embodiments, the thickness of the tile 102 may be greater than 2 mm, for example, approximately 4 mm. In some embodiments, all connections between the tile 102 and the stabilizer 104 and / or the attachment feature 106 may be robust and may keep the tile assembly connected when force is applied to the tile assembly.

[0285] In some embodiments, it may be desirable to eliminate or reduce visible lines where the attachment features 106 are clustered together on the top surface or grouting surface of the connector.

[0286] Figure 19 These are schematic diagrams of three example attachment features of the collage component. Figure 19 The attachment feature 106 depicted can be a cooperating male and female attachment features 108 and 110. The male attachment feature 108 can have a spherical protrusion, and the female attachment feature 110 can have a recess of a similar shape for receiving the male attachment feature 108. Figure 19 As shown, it is possible for the entire attachment features 108 and 110 to be contained within the sides or edges of the tile 102, such that the attachment features 108 or 110 do not extend beyond the top or bottom surface of the tile 102. In some embodiments, the attachment features 108 and 110 may not be injection molded to the tile 102.

[0287] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram of two collage components 100a and 100b connected together by an attachment feature. Figure 20 Complementary attachment features 108 and 110 are depicted. Attachment features 108 and 110 may have locking features. Attachment feature 108 may have a ridge that is received in a corresponding channel of attachment feature 110. Figure 20 As shown, attachment features 108 and 110 may extend only at a portion of the edge of the tile 102, rather than along the entire edge of the tile 102. In some embodiments, such as Figure 20 As shown, attachment features 108 and 110 can be attached to the edge and bottom of tile 102, and can be separate from stabilizer 104, which can also be attached to the bottom of tile 102.

[0288] Figure 21 yes Figure 20 A schematic diagram of the attachment feature 108.

[0289] Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram of attachment features 108 and 110 that connect two tile components 100a and 100b together. As shown, a wheel rolls on a connector defined by attachment features 108 and 110. In some embodiments, the connection of attachment features 108 and 110 can maintain the connection of the tile components and preserve their connection when rolling loads or rolling stresses are applied.

[0290] Figure 23 This is a schematic diagram of a collage system 2350 formed by four collage components 100a-100d. As shown, the attachment feature 106 can extend along the entire edge of the collage component.

[0291] Figure 24 This is a schematic diagram of two tiling components 100a and 100b connected together by the attachment feature 106.

[0292] Figure 25 This is a schematic diagram of a tiling assembly 100 having attachment feature 106. (See diagram below.) Figure 25 As shown, the attachment feature 106 may include a rib 2502 to facilitate connection with a corresponding attachment feature 106 on another tiling component.

[0293] Figure 26 This is a schematic diagram of a tiling assembly 100 having attachment feature 106. (See diagram below.) Figure 26 As shown, the attachment feature 106 may include a slot 2602 to facilitate connection with a corresponding attachment feature 106 on another tile assembly.

[0294] Figure 27 This is a schematic diagram of the collage component 100.

[0295] Figure 28 This is a schematic diagram of a mounting assembly 100 having a male attachment feature 108 connected to a female attachment feature 110. The male attachment feature 108 has a generally circular spherical protrusion and may have beveled or chamfered sides to fit into a recess of the female attachment feature 110, which has a generally similar shape.

[0296] As in Figure 28 As depicted, in some embodiments, one of the attachment features may extend along the entire side of the patch or a portion of the entire side of the patch, while another of the attachment features may be located at discrete positions along the side of the patch. For example, Figure 28The female attachment features 110 depicted can be located at discrete positions along the sides of the patchwork. One or more such female attachment features 110 can be present along the sides of the patchwork. These female attachment features 110 may be unconnected or joined together, and Figure 28 The male attachment feature 110 shown may extend along a side or a portion of the side of the tile 102. Therefore, when two tile components are joined together, the male attachment feature 108 may be attached to one or more female attachment features 110, even if the tile components are not perfectly aligned with each other during installation. This facilitates the connection of the two tile components and makes the tile components easy to use.

[0297] Figure 29 This is a schematic diagram of two tiling components 100a and 100b connected together by male attachment feature 108 and female attachment feature 110 to form tiling system 2950.

[0298] Figures 30-34 Depicting them as separate Figure 29 The collage components 100a and 100b. (Example) Figures 30-34 As depicted, the male attachment feature 108 may have a ridge, lip, or tongue on the protrusion, which may be received in a slot or channel of the female attachment feature 110. The protrusion of the male attachment feature 108 may be received in a recess of the female attachment feature 110 having a similar shape to the protrusion. The top surface of the female attachment feature 110 extends from the patch assembly 100a to the patch assembly 100b, such that the front edge of the female attachment feature 110 is close to the patch assembly 100b to conceal or hide the front edge. As shown, the top surface of the female attachment feature 110 is below the top surface of the patch of patch assemblies 100a and 100b, such that the connector or grout formed between patch assemblies 100a and 100b can have a recessed appearance. As shown, patch assemblies 100a and 100b have discrete male and female attachment features 108 and 110 that do not extend along the entire side of the patch. Instead, one or more male and female attachment features 108 and 110 may exist for connecting two tiling components 100a and 100b.

[0299] Figure 35 This is a schematic diagram of attaching tiling component 100a to another tiling component 100b and 100c to form tiling system 3500. In some embodiments, such as Figure 35As shown, the edge of the tiling assembly 100a facing the tiling assembly 100b may include an attachment feature 106a, which may be a tenon or groove corresponding to the attachment feature on the tiling assembly 100b facing the tiling assembly 100a, and the edge of the tiling assembly 100a facing the tiling assembly 100c may include an attachment feature 106b, which may have a locking feature corresponding to the attachment feature on the tiling assembly 100c facing the tiling assembly 100a.

[0300] In some embodiments, to connect tiling component 100a to components 100b and 100c, tiling component 100a may first be connected to tiling component 100c by angling tiling component 100a relative to tiling component 100c and connecting attachment feature 106b to a corresponding attachment feature of tiling component 100c. After the attachment feature 106b of tiling component 100a is connected to the corresponding attachment feature of tiling component 100c, tiling component 100a may be lowered to approximately horizontal level with tiling component 100c. Then, tiling component 100a may be moved toward tiling component 100b while remaining connected to tiling component 100c. Then, attachment feature 106a may connect tiling component 100a to tiling component 100b by connecting to a corresponding attachment feature connected to tiling component 100b. In some embodiments, tiling component 100a may not be directly connected to tiling component 100d, but tiling component 100d may be connected to tiling components 100b and 100c. When the tiling components are connected together, they can form a tiling system 3500.

[0301] Figure 36 This is a schematic diagram of attaching collage component 100 to another collage component to form collage system 3600. Figure 36 An example sequence of downward and leftward attachments for assembling the tiling system 3600 is depicted. Tiling component 100 may move generally downward until it is attached to another tiling component, and then to the left until it is attached to another tiling component. When tiling component 100 is attached to two tiling components, tiling component 100 is secured as part of the tiling system 3600. In some embodiments, the attachment sequence may be downward and right, left and downward, right and downward, upward and left, upward and right, left and upward, and right and upward. The configuration and positioning of the attachment features of the tiling components of the tiling system may correspond to the attachment sequence for assembling the tiling system.

[0302] like Figure 36The tile assembly 100 depicted may include male attachment features 108 at the top and right edges and female attachment features 108 at the left and bottom edges. In some embodiments, the male attachment features 108 may be on opposite edges, or the female attachment features 110 may be on opposite edges. In some embodiments, more edges of the tile assembly 100 may have one type of attachment feature, while fewer edges may have another type of attachment feature.

[0303] Figure 37 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the attachment of one collage component to another to form a collage system 3700. (See diagram below.) Figure 37 As shown, the tiling system 3700 has nine tiling components 100. In some embodiments, the tiling components of the tiling system 3700 may be tiling components 100a. Tiling component 100a may have attachment features 106a and 106c that may have locking features, and attachment features 106b and 106d that may have tongue and groove features. In some embodiments, the tiling components of the tiling system 3700 may be tiling components 100b. Tiling component 100b may have attachment features 106e and 106f that may be male attachment features, and attachment features 106g and 106f that may be female attachment features. The configuration, design, and positioning of the tiling components 100 with attachment features 106 can be appropriately changed to suit the installation method.

[0304] Figure 38 This is a schematic diagram of the 3800 collage system. (For example...) Figure 38 As shown, additional tiling components can be connected to the tiling system 3800, allowing the tiling system 3800 to extend vertically, horizontally, or in combination thereof.

[0305] Figure 39 This is a schematic diagram of the collage system 3900. As shown, the collage system 3900 includes four collage components. In some embodiments, as shown in collage system 3900a, the collage components of collage system 3900a may be substantially the same size and shape. In some embodiments, as shown in collage system 3900b, some collage components of collage system 3900b may have different sizes and shapes from each other. For example, collage system 3900b has some substantially square collage components and other substantially rectangular collage components.

[0306] In some embodiments, the bottom surface of tile 102 may be a coupling surface for releasably mounting tile assembly 100 to another coupling surface complementary to the coupling surface of tile 102. The coupling surface of tile 102 may be a hook or loop, and the other coupling surface may be another of the hooks or loops.

[0307] In some embodiments, the tile assembly 100 may be designed to have installation tolerances. For example, there may be a gap in the locking ring to determine tolerance, such as when sliding vertically or horizontally. In some embodiments, the gap may be 1 / 32. nd -1 / 8 th Inches. More specifically, the gap can be 1 / 16th of a inch. th -1 / 4 th Inches. More specifically, the gap can be 3 / 16. th inch.

[0308] In some embodiments, the tiling component 100 can be cut on-site. The tiling component 100 can be, for example, scratched or cut with a wet saw.

[0309] The tile assembly described above in Figures 1-39 includes tiles that are attached to the stabilizer and the connector. In some embodiments, the tile assembly may include more than one tile.

[0310] Figure 40 This is a schematic diagram of a collage component 4000, which is generally similar to the collage component described in Figures 1-39 (e.g., collage component 100), except that the collage component 4000 has two tiles 4002a and 4002b, and a stabilizer 4004 stacked on top of each other between the two tiles 4002a and 4002b. Figure 40 As shown, the tiling assembly 4000 includes attachment features 4006 that mechanically connect the tiling assemblies 4000 together.

[0311] although Figure 40 The attachment feature 4006 is depicted on the side of the tiling components 4002a and 4002b, but it should be understood that other configurations are also possible. For example, in addition to some or all of the side surfaces of the tiling components, the attachment feature 4006 may extend through a portion of the bottom surface of the tiling component. The attachment feature 4006 may also extend through the entire bottom surface of the tiling component. The attachment feature 4006 may also extend through the entire bottom surface of the tiling component and further extend upwards to some or all of the side surfaces of the tiling component.

[0312] In some embodiments, the attachment feature 4006 may be made of a malleable material, including polyurethane, rubber, silicone, ionomer, thermoplastic elastomer, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or low-density polyethylene (LDPE), etc. The malleability of the attachment feature 4006 allows individual tile components that connect to each other to form an entire flooring system, as the malleability of the tiles will allow the tile components to conform to the contours of the underlying floor and allow for some expansion and contraction tolerances (e.g., for different temperature or humidity levels). In embodiments where the tile components are used as wall coverings, the malleability of the attachment feature 4006 allows the tile system to utilize the natural gravity acting on the tiles to use the weight of the tiles to join the connections between the tiles to a substantially waterproof point between the tile components.

[0313] In some embodiments, the attachment feature 4006 may be laminated to a side of the tile assembly. In some embodiments, the attachment feature may be laminated to more than one side of the tile assembly, and in some embodiments, it may be laminated to each side of the tile assembly (e.g., as shown in the figure). Figure 118 (As shown). In some embodiments, the tiling assembly can be cut to precisely assemble with the attachment feature 4006. In some embodiments, waterjet cutting is used for cutting. In some embodiments, 3D printing can be used to ensure a precise fit between the tiling assembly and the attachment feature. In some embodiments, the attachment feature 4006 is first attached to the side of the tiling assembly and then ground to form the appropriate geometry for attachment to other attachment features. In some embodiments, the attachment feature is formed using injection molding.

[0314] In some embodiments, the tile assembly 4000 may be two outer tiles (e.g., laminated tiles) with a stabilizer 4004 made of glass fiber wrapped around the center. The glass fiber may be glass fiber cloth.

[0315] In some embodiments, tiles 4002a and 4002b may be made of porcelain, and particularly of double-glazed porcelain. Tile 4002a can be manufactured using a double-glazed porcelain manufacturing process. Conventional double-layer porcelain manufacturing typically does not allow for much flexibility in terms of surface finish, primarily because conventional manufacturing methods do not allow for a wide range of printing options for colors and / or patterns. In conventional double-layer manufacturing, pattern construction / coloring is completed during the initial manufacturing process, not as a secondary step. Therefore, many manufacturers choose not to use double-layer manufacturing because it is a relatively expensive process, often requiring high-volume production to make it cost-effective, and does not offer much flexibility or capability for different visual surface finishes. However, in some embodiments, inkjet printing technology can be used to print on the other surface of the double-layer product.

[0316] In some embodiments, the improved double-layer ceramic manufacturing process allows for the possibility of inserting a glass fiber layer (or other stabilizing layer) between the two ceramic layers. In some embodiments, once the glass fiber layer is inserted onto the first layer of ceramic powder / slurry, pressure can be applied to allow the glass fiber to embed well and reduce the possibility of cavitation.

[0317] In embodiments where the second tile 4002b is placed on either side of the stabilizer 4004 (e.g., glass fiber), pressure can be applied to the first layer of ceramic powder / slurry and glass fiber before the second layer of ceramic slurry / powder is applied. In some embodiments, the modified double-layer ceramic manufacturing process can allow tiles with a thickness of 9 mm or less. By introducing a layer of glass fiber (or other stabilizer) between the ceramic layers during the manufacturing process, this can provide a lower-cost method for manufacturing tiles than currently known.

[0318] In some embodiments, tiling 4000a may be ceramic (veneer) corrected, and tiling 4000b may be ceramic tiling corrected.

[0319] In some embodiments, the tile assembly 4000 may be a composite tile that includes two ceramic layers (e.g., two tiles) on the outer side and an orthotropic glass fiber layer in the middle.

[0320] In some embodiments, tiles 4000a and 4000b may be laminated together with polyurethane and fiberglass.

[0321] In some embodiments, the tile assembly 4000 may include a backing material, such as foam, a ring, or a polymer. When the tile assembly 4000 is mounted on a floor, the backing material may be foam. When the tile assembly 4000 is mounted on a wall, the backing material may have a material for mounting or attaching the tile assembly 4000 to the wall, such as a ring. The backing material may be sufficiently adapted to withstand high stresses applied to the tile assembly 4000 (e.g., from a focal point like the heel of a stiletto shoe). The backing material may be reinforced with glass fiber.

[0322] In some embodiments, the stabilizer 4000 may be a metal material such as steel.

[0323] In some embodiments, the tiling component 4000 can be connected to other tiling components 4000 to form a tiling system. The tiling system can be installed on a surface such as a floor or a wall. When the tiling system including the tiling component 4000 is installed on a floor, the tiling components 4000 of the tiling system can "float freely" on the floor, and the tiling system including the tiling component 4000 can be stabilized on the floor.

[0324] In some embodiments, the tile assembly 4000 may be difficult to break.

[0325] The tiling component 4000 can be used as an under-surface or surface component.

[0326] In some embodiments, the load applied to the tile assembly 4000 may be distributed to its components, such as to the first tile 4002a, the second tile 4002b, the stabilizer 4004, the attachment feature 4006, or a combination thereof.

[0327] After the tiling components 4000 are connected together to form a tiling system, the tiling components 4000 can be separated for replacement, repair, and cleaning, etc.

[0328] In some embodiments, the tile assembly 4000 may be manufactured as two tiles, each tile having at least one generally flat surface and a reinforcing fiber fabric that can be laminated onto the two tiles. The reinforcing fabric can be bonded to the tiles using resin. In some embodiments, the tile 4000b may be a thin Laminam® tile.

[0329] In some embodiments, a stabilizer 4004 (e.g., fiberglass) between two tiles 4002a and 4002b may prevent the stress required to cause tile 4002a or tile 4002b to break due to the stiffness of the stabilizer 4004. When the stabilizer 4004 is fiberglass, the stabilizer 4004 may have a higher stiffness than the stiffness of tile 4002a or 4002b.

[0330] When the stabilizer 4004 is made of glass fiber, it can have vertical or horizontal stiffness.

[0331] In some embodiments, there may be more than one layer of stabilizer 4004 between two tiles 4002a or 4002b.

[0332] In some embodiments where the stabilizer 4004 is made of glass fiber, the glass fiber can be tightened to reduce gaps in the glass fiber wave. This prevents a loss of stiffness in the glass fiber.

[0333] Tile 4002A or tile 4002B may have a thickness that prevents the tile from cracking during harsh conditions such as under high stress. The thickness of tile assembly 4000 may be based on its intended use. For example, when tile assembly 4000 is installed on the floor or near a door, tile assembly 4000 may not be so thick as to obstruct the movement of the door.

[0334] In some embodiments, tile 4002a or tile 4002b may be square.

[0335] In some embodiments, the stabilizer 4004 between tiles 4002a and 4002b may be foam.

[0336] In some embodiments, the attachment feature 4006 may be located between the top and bottom surfaces of the tile assembly 4000. When the attachment features 4006 of the tile assembly are joined together to connect the tile assembly 4000, the connector defined by the joined attachment features 4006 may be waterproof, watertight, or durable.

[0337] In some embodiments, the fiberglass stabilizer 4004 may extend beyond the dimensions of tile 4002a or tile 4002b. In some embodiments, the fiberglass stabilizer 4004 may not extend beyond the dimensions of tile 4002a or tile 4002b and terminate at the edge of tile 4002a or tile 4002b.

[0338] In some embodiments, the Mayor machine can laminate the glass fiber stabilizer 4004 onto the tiles 4002a and 4002b.

[0339] To bond glass fibers to tiles 4002a and 4002b, glass fibers in roller form with uncured adhesive can provide alignment with tiles 4002a and 4002b. Clamps can assist in aligning the glass fibers with tiles 4002a and 4002b.

[0340] In some embodiments, it may be difficult to separate patch 4002a or 4002b from stabilizer 4004.

[0341] The connections between the tiling components 4000 are strong enough that the rolling load applied to the tiling system will not break the connections of the tiling components 4000 or damage them.

[0342] In some embodiments, components of the tiling assembly 4000 that can be visually seen or touched (e.g., tiling 4000a, tiling 4000b, stabilizer 4004, attachment feature 4006, etc.) may have designs. For example, components of the tiling assembly 4000 may have colors, designs, prints, glazes, smoothness, or texture.

[0343] In some embodiments, if a crystalline product is used, glass fiber may not be required.

[0344] In some embodiments, tiling 4002a and / or 4002b may be substantially similar to the tiling described herein in Figures 1-39 (e.g., tiling 102).

[0345] As in Figure 40As depicted, collages 4002a and 4002b are generally similar in material, size, shape, and thickness. In some embodiments, collages 4002a and 4002b may have different materials, sizes, shapes, or thicknesses. For example, collage 4002a may be thicker than collage 4002b. As another example, collage 4002a may be made of a different material than collage 4002b (e.g., collages of different models, collages of different manufactures, etc.).

[0346] In some embodiments, stabilizer 4004 may be substantially similar to the stabilizer described herein (e.g., stabilizer 104).

[0347] Figure 40 The illustrated tile assembly 4000 does not have a stabilizer attached to the bottom surface of tile 4002b. In some embodiments, a stabilizer similar to stabilizer 104 may be attached to the bottom surface of tile 4002b. In some embodiments, tile 4002b may serve as stabilizer 104. For example, the stabilizer 4004 between tiles 4002a and 4002b may be glass fiber, and the stabilizer attached to the bottom surface of tile 4002b may be a polymer, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET). In some embodiments, stabilizer 4004 is absent. That is, in some embodiments, the tile assembly may include tiles 4002a, 4002b and attachment feature 4006, without stabilizer 4004. In some embodiments, the tile assembly may not include attachment feature. That is, in some embodiments, the tile assembly includes tiles 4002a, 4002b separated by stabilizer 4004.

[0348] In some embodiments, attachment feature 4006 may be substantially similar to the attachment features described herein (e.g., attachment feature 106). For example, attachment feature 4006 may have a locking feature or a tongue or groove feature to correspond to an attachment feature 4006 of another tile assembly 4000. In some embodiments, attachment feature 4006 may be attached to tile 4002a or 4002b, to stabilizer 4004, to the bottom of tile 4002b, or a combination thereof. Attachment feature 4006 may be attached to the edge of tile 4002a or 4002b, or may be attached to both the edge and the bottom of tile 4002b.

[0349] In some embodiments, the attachment feature 4006 may be manufactured using molding extrusion and 3D printing, etc. In some embodiments, the attachment feature 4006 may be attached to the tile 4002a, tile 4002b, or stabilizer 4004, for example by gluing, molding, or bonding.

[0350] In some embodiments, the thickness of tile assembly 4000 may be approximately 8 mm. Tile 4000a may be approximately 4 mm thick, and tile 4000b may be approximately 4 mm thick. Tile 4000a and 4000b may have different thicknesses.

[0351] In some embodiments, the tile assembly 4000 may be waterproof or may be treated with materials to make it waterproof. In some embodiments, the tile assembly 4000 may be mounted on a wall, such as in a shower, to protect the wall from liquids.

[0352] Figure 41 This is a schematic diagram of two tile components 4000a and 4000b with two tiles 4002a and 4002b connected together. The stabilizer 4004 can be made of glass fiber, metal (e.g., steel or aluminum), polymer, or another material. Figure 41 As shown, both tile 4002a and 4002b have chamfered edges that form an irregular shape when joined together. In some embodiments, attachment feature 4006 may be a single component that joins the two tile components 4000a and 4000b together. Attachment feature 4006 may be configured to have a shape and design that allows it to contact and connect with the two tile components 4000a and 4000b.

[0353] In some embodiments, the attachment feature 4006 may be prefabricated. In some embodiments, the attachment feature 4006 may be a liquid or a partially liquid and may be applied on-site.

[0354] In some embodiments, to manufacture the tile assembly 4000, each tile 4000a and 4000b can be manufactured separately. For example, each tile 4000a and 4000b can be cut from a material and machined or molded to have a desired shape, size, edge design, surface finish, etc. After the tiles 4000a and 4000b are manufactured, they can then be attached together using a stabilizer 4004, such as fiberglass, metal, polymer, foam, or adhesive.

[0355] Figure 42 These are two exploded views of tiling component 4000, which has two tiling pieces, 4000a and 4000b.

[0356] Figure 43 This is a schematic diagram of two tile components 4000a and 4000b, each tile component having two tiles 4002, wherein a stabilizer 4004 is engaged to the two tiles. Figure 43As shown, tile assembly 4000a has a backing 4008a, and tile assembly 4000b has a backing 4008b. The backing 4008 can be made of foam, a ring, or a polymer. When the tile assembly 4000 is to be mounted on a floor, the backing material 4008 can be foam. When the tile assembly 4000 is to be mounted on a wall, the backing material 4008 can have a material for mounting or attaching the tile assembly 4000 to the wall, such as a ring. The backing material 4008 can be sufficiently adapted to withstand high stresses applied to the tile assembly 4000 (e.g., from a focal point like the heel of a stiletto). The backing material 4008 can be reinforced with glass fiber. In some embodiments, the backing material 4008 can be a second stabilizer (e.g., stabilizer 104, stabilizer 4004) similar to the stabilizers described herein.

[0357] Figure 44 This is a schematic diagram of a tiling system 4450 having nine tiling components 4000a-4000i connected together. In some embodiments, when a tiling component is connected to another tiling component to form a tiling system, the top surface of the tiling component can be substantially horizontal.

[0358] Figure 45 This is a schematic diagram of two tiling components 4000a and 4000b having two tiling pieces 4002, wherein loop backings 4008a and 4008b are connected to tiling components 4000a and 4000b. Tiling components 4000a and 4000b with loop backings 4008a and 4008b can be connected to surfaces with corresponding hooks that can engage with the loops of loop backings 4008a and 4008b.

[0359] In some embodiments, the bottom surface of the second tile 4002b may be a coupling surface for releasably mounting the tile assembly 4000 to another coupling surface complementary to the coupling surface of the tile. The coupling surface of the second tile 4002b may be a hook or loop, and the other coupling surface may be another of the hooks or loops.

[0360] In some embodiments, the tile assembly 4000 may be designed to have installation tolerances. For example, there may be gaps in the locking ring to determine tolerances, such as when sliding vertically or horizontally.

[0361] In some embodiments, the tiling component 4000 can be cut on-site. The tiling component 4000 can be, for example, scratched or cut with a wet saw.

[0362] Figure 46-65The manufacture of a collage assembly 100 having collage 102 is depicted. In some embodiments, the manufacture of collage 100 may be adapted to manufacture a collage assembly 4000 having two collages 4002a and 4000b.

[0363] In some embodiments, the tiling assembly can be manufactured by molding the stabilizer 104 or the attachment feature 106 with a tiling mold (e.g., back molding). The stabilizer 104 and the attachment feature 106 can be integrally formed or can be separate components.

[0364] Tiled components can be manufactured in ways that reduce fragility, improve ease of installation, enhance installation quality, and increase the ease of replacing damaged tiles.

[0365] In some embodiments, the tile assembly can be manufactured by back-molding the tile 102 and mounting it together with the attachment feature 106, by molding the attachment feature 106 onto the tile 102, by injection molding, or by a temperature-controlled process. Tiles 102 of different sizes can be molded.

[0366] After the part has cured in the manufacturing tool, it can be ejected. A suction cup can hold the tile 102 in place before molding. A resilient surface can be present on the side where the tile 102 is located. A sealing element made of a partially resilient material can be present to seal the plastic.

[0367] Figure 46 This is a schematic diagram of a tiling assembly 100 manufactured by molding the stabilizer 104 and the attachment feature 106 onto the tiling 102.

[0368] Figure 47 This is a schematic diagram of the 4700 collage component manufacturing tool.

[0369] Figure 48 This is another schematic diagram of a tiling component manufacturing tool 4700, in which the tool support 4702 is separated from the elastic layer 4704.

[0370] Figure 49 This is a schematic diagram of a tile assembly 100 manufactured by a manufacturing tool 4700. The manufacturing tool 4700 may include a tool support 4702 that supports a tool 4708, which can be fitted against the contour of the tile assembly and can be cooled or heated. The tool 4700 may also include an elastic layer 4704 for protecting the tile 102 from damage during manufacturing. The manufacturing tool 4700 may include a sealing frame and a seal 4706 to seal the material and maintain the shape of the tile assembly 100 during manufacturing. Figure 49 As shown, the tile 102 is connected to the stabilizer 104. In some embodiments, the stabilizer 104 may include an attachment feature 106.

[0371] Figure 50 This is a schematic diagram of the temperature profiles of the plastic and the manufacturing tool 4700 during a tiling assembly manufacturing process performed by the manufacturing tool 4700. The temperatures of the plastic and the tool can be example temperatures. As shown, the temperature of the plastic rises at the injection point and then slowly decreases until the part is ejected.

[0372] In some embodiments, the polymer used for the tiling component 100 may be PET, recycled PET (rPET), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), acrylonitrile-styrene-acrylate copolymer (ASA), filler, foam material, or a combination thereof.

[0373] In some embodiments, the tile assembly 100 can be manufactured by pressure welding. The backing plate (e.g., a stabilizer) of the tile assembly 100 can be molded, including attachment features 106 (e.g., tongues and grooves). The tile 102, which may be ceramic, can be heated. The backing plate and the tile 102 can then be pressure welded together in a separate tool.

[0374] Figure 51 This is a schematic diagram of a molded backing plate used to manufacture the tiling assembly 100. The backing plate (e.g., stabilizer 104) may include attachment features 106. Figure 51 As shown, the backing plate may have a recess for receiving the tile 102 of the tile assembly 100.

[0375] Figure 52 This is a schematic diagram of a tile 102 used to manufacture the tile assembly 100. The tile can be heated during a pressure welding process to manufacture the tile assembly 100.

[0376] Figure 53 This is a schematic diagram of press-welding the tile 102 and the backing plate (e.g., stabilizer 104, attachment feature 106, or both) to manufacture the tile assembly 100. In some embodiments, each of the tile 102 and the backing plate may be supported by molds 5300a and 5300b while the tile 102 and the backing plate are pressed together.

[0377] Figure 54 This is a schematic diagram of the manufactured collage component 100. Figure 54 A tile assembly 100 is depicted, including tile 102, stabilizer 104, male attachment feature 108, and female attachment feature 110. Additional tile assemblies 100 may be manufactured and connected together using male attachment feature 108 and female attachment feature 110.

[0378] In some embodiments, the tile assembly 100 manufactured by pressure welding can be similar to the tile assembly 100 manufactured by injection back-molded tile.

[0379] Figure 55 Table 5500 summarizes the characteristics of injection molding, temperature-controlled molding, and pressure welding processes. As shown in Table 5500, injection molding, temperature-controlled molding, and pressure welding processes can be compared using tooling costs, cycle times, risk of patch breakage during the process, development risks, and development costs. Other metrics for comparing processes are possible.

[0380] Pressure bonding can provide a low-investment solution for performing serial processes.

[0381] In some embodiments, the tiled components can be manufactured using a combination of injection molding, temperature-controlled molding, and pressure welding processes.

[0382] Pressure welding may have a relatively low risk of tile breakage during manufacturing. The pressure applied to the tile can be relatively low and can be controlled by the temperature of the tile or the plastic part (e.g., by preheating the plastic part). For example, the pressure used for pressure welding can be about 1 bar, while the pressure used for injection molding can be greater than 100 bar.

[0383] Furthermore, the prototype of the collage component can closely resemble the product series.

[0384] In some embodiments, the pressure welding concept can be injection molding of the backing as a separate process. Welding can be performed by heating the collage and pressing it onto a plastic backing located in a tool (to avoid expansion due to pressure).

[0385] During the pressure welding process, the surface texture of the back of the tile may be irrelevant. For plastic parts, some design considerations may be necessary to prevent air trapping. Tiles have very low thermal expansion, so they can be heated quickly, and therefore the tile may not warp even if heating occurs primarily on the tile surface.

[0386] In some embodiments, the polymer used to manufacture the tiling assembly may be polylactic acid polymer (PLA) or PET, and the tiling may be a 6” or 8” tiling.

[0387] Figure 56 This is a schematic diagram of the tile 102 and the backing plate that are welded together to form the tile assembly 100. Figure 56A manufacturing tool 5600 is depicted for pressing a tile 102 and a backing plate together. Tool 5600 has an injection side 5602 and an ejection side 5604. Tool 5600 may include a cold tooling part 5606 for sealing components of the tile assembly 100 being manufactured to seal material and maintain the shape of the tile assembly 100 during manufacturing. Tool 5600 may include a hot tooling part 5608 accessible to the backing plate. Tool 5600 may include a resilient portion 5610 for preventing the tile 102 from breaking. Tool 5600 may include additional seals 5612 to seal material and maintain the shape of the tile assembly 100 during manufacturing.

[0388] Tool 5600 may comprise plastic and may surround the tiling 102 with its entire circumference. Each side of the tool may have four cams sliding outwards. The cams may be cold, while the tool itself may be hot. Cold cams allow the material to freeze quickly. Additional sealing material may be present on the cams to compensate for uneven edges in the tiling.

[0389] Figure 57 This is a schematic diagram of the cam in the 5600 tiling component manufacturing tool. (Example) Figure 57 As shown, cams 5614a, 5614b, and 5614c can slide, for example, about 45°.

[0390] Figure 58 This is a schematic diagram of an example embodiment of a pressure-welded tile assembly 100.

[0391] Figures 59-63 This is a schematic diagram of an example embodiment of the attachment feature of a pressure-welded tile assembly.

[0392] Figure 59 A tiling assembly 100 is depicted, comprising a tiling element 102, a stabilizer 104, and an attachment feature 106. For example... Figure 59 As shown, the polymer stabilizer 104 or attachment feature 106 may surround the patch 102.

[0393] Figure 60 A tiling assembly 100 is depicted, comprising a tiling element 102, a stabilizer 104, and an attachment feature 106. For example... Figure 60 As shown, the edges of the collage 102 can be curved.

[0394] In some embodiments, to prevent breakage of the tile 102 during the manufacture of the tile assembly 100, a resilient tooling material may be provided where the tile 102 meets the tool. Low pressure may exist due to the exothermic process, possibly caused by slow filling at very low pressure due to the hot tool. Sufficient injection points may be provided to further reduce pressure.

[0395] Figure 61A mosaic assembly 100 is depicted, comprising a mosaic tile 102, a stabilizer 104, and a female attachment feature 110. For example... Figure 60 As shown, the length of the female attachment feature 110 extending from the patch can be, for example, 1900 mm.

[0396] Figure 62 A collage assembly 100 is depicted, comprising a collage 102, a stabilizer 104, and a male attachment feature 108.

[0397] Figure 63 A collage assembly 100 is depicted having a collage 102, a stabilizer 104, a male attachment feature 108, and a female attachment feature 110.

[0398] Figure 64 This is a schematic diagram of a welded tile assembly 100.

[0399] Figure 65 A mosaic assembly 100 is depicted, comprising a mosaic tile 102, a stabilizer 104, and a female attachment feature 110. For example... Figure 60 As shown, the length of the female attachment feature 110 extending from the patch can be, for example, 1900 mm.

[0400] In some embodiments, multiple molds can be used to manufacture tiling components under a single pressure. This can also be done in large quantities. For example, a certain number of 12-inch tilings can be molded, and then some inserts in the tooling or process parameters can be changed to run 18-inch tilings. This can be more efficient.

[0401] In some embodiments, the molding polymer (e.g., molded PET) of the tiling assembly may be 2 mm thick. In some embodiments, the molding polymer (e.g., molded PET) of the tiling assembly may be greater than 2 mm thick (e.g., 4 mm thick).

[0402] In some embodiments, utilizing the slider concept, the tongue and groove attachment feature 106 can be manufactured relatively easily and used to produce a tiling assembly 100 having the tongue and groove attachment feature 106.

[0403] In some embodiments, the depth of the groove for the female attachment feature 110 can be variable. For example, the depth of the groove can be 2 mm, or it can be greater than or less than 2 mm.

[0404] The tiling components discussed herein can be mounted on a surface. In some embodiments, to mount the tiling components on a surface, a base assembly can be first mounted on the surface, and then the tiling components can be attached to the base assembly to mount the tiling components onto the surface.

[0405] Figure 66 This is a diagram illustrating the installation of component 6600.

[0406] The base assembly 6600 may include a plate 6610. The tile assembly is removably attached to the surface of the plate 6610. For example, the surface of the plate 6610 may have hooks corresponding to loops on the bottom surface of the tile assembly, such that the tile assembly can be attached to and removed from the plate 6610. Figure 66 As shown, plate 6610 has a generally hexagonal shape. In some embodiments, plate 6610 may have other shapes. For example, plate 6610 may have a circle, triangle, square, rectangle, pentagon, heptagon, octagon, irregular shape, and shape with at least one curved side, etc.

[0407] Plate 6610 may have one or more recesses 6612 to receive engaging members (e.g., discs) for connecting plate 6610 to other plates 6610 or to a surface below or behind plate 6610. Figure 66 As shown, plate 6610 has six recesses 6612. In some embodiments, the number of recesses 6612 may depend on the construction of plate 6610 and how plate 6610 is to be connected to a surface below or behind plate 6610. For example, recesses 6612 may be present at each corner of plate 6610.

[0408] Board 6610 may have one or more channels 6614 to receive connectors (e.g., screws, plugs, nails, etc.) for securing board 6610 to a surface below or behind board 6610. Channel 6614 may extend through board 6610 between its top and bottom surfaces. The dimensions of channel 6614 may depend on the connector used to secure board 6610 to a surface below or behind board 6610.

[0409] Board 6610 may have one or more corner channels 6616 to receive connectors (e.g., screws, plugs, nails, etc.) for securing board 6610 to a surface below or behind board 6610. The corner channel 6616 may extend through board 6610 between the top and bottom surfaces. The dimensions of the channel 6616 may depend on the connector used to secure board 6610 to a surface below or behind board 6610.

[0410] The dimensions and construction of the plate 6610, as well as the location and construction of the recesses 6612, channels 6614, or corner channels 6614, can be based on the architectural supports of the surface to which the plate 6610 is to be connected. For example, the dimensions and construction of the plate 6610, as well as the location and construction of the recesses 6612, channels 6614, or corner channels 6614, can be based on the stud spacing of the wall to which the plate 6610 is to be connected. As another example, the dimensions and construction of the plate 6610, as well as the location and construction of the recesses 6612, channels 6614, or corner channels 6614, can be based on the center-to-center distance of the columns of the wall to which the plate 6610 is to be connected.

[0411] The base assembly 6600 may include a coupling member 6620 for connecting plates 6610 together and attaching plates 6610 to a surface below or behind plates 6610. Figure 66 As shown, the engaging member 6620 is a disk. In some embodiments, the engaging member 6620 may be other shapes, such as triangles, squares, rectangles, pentagons, heptagons, octagons, irregular shapes, preferably shapes having at least one curved side, etc.

[0412] The joining member 6620 can be received in the recess 6612 of the plate 6610. When the three plates 6610 are assembled together, the joining member 6620 can be received in a circular recess 6613 defined by the recesses 6612 of the three plates 6610.

[0413] The thickness of the mating member 6620 is such that when the mating member 6620 is received in the recess 6612 of the plate 6610, the top surface of the mating member 6620 can be flush with the top surface of the plate 6610.

[0414] The mating member 6620 may have a central channel 6622 and one or more peripheral channels 6624 for receiving connectors (e.g., screws, plugs, nails, etc.) to secure the plate 6610 and the mating member 6620 to a surface below or behind the plate 6610. Figure 66 As shown, the engagement member 6620 has three peripheral channels 6624 and one central channel 6622. Channels 6624 and 6622 can extend through the engagement member 6620 between its top and bottom surfaces. The dimensions of the central channel 6622 and the peripheral channels 6624 can depend on the connector used to secure the plate 6610 and engage the member 6620 to a surface below or behind the plate 6610.

[0415] In some embodiments, the top surface of the plate 6610 connected to the tiling assembly may also be characterized on the top surface of the joining member 6620.

[0416] To secure plate 6610 and engagement member 6620 to a surface, plate 6610 may be joined together (e.g., joined at a corner) to define a recess 6613 for receiving engagement member 6620. Engagement member 6620 may be received in recess 6612 or recess 6613. Central channel 6622 may be aligned with corner channel 6616 of plate 6610 (when plates 6610 are joined together, corner channels 6616 of the plates may together define channel 6618), and peripheral channel 6624 may be aligned with channel 6614 of plate 6610. A connector may then be inserted through central channel 6622 of engagement member 6620, corner channel 6616 of plate 6610 defining channel 6618, peripheral channel 6624 of engagement member 6620, or channel 6614 of plate 6610 to connect plate 6610 and engagement member 6620 to a surface below or behind plate 6610.

[0417] In some embodiments, plate 6610 may be a hook plate, wherein plate 6610 may have one or more hooks on its surface for connection to a tiling assembly.

[0418] In some embodiments, the plate 6610 or the joining component 6620 can be manufactured using processes with low investment costs. For example, the plate 6610 or the joining component 6620 can be manufactured using molding, welding, machining, and 3D printing.

[0419] 3D printing of plate 6610 or joining component 6620 can be beneficial. The ability to manufacture hooks can be present on the surface of plate 6610 or joining component 6620. Hooks can be printed directly. These hooks can have various different shapes and can be optimized.

[0420] This technology can use relatively inexpensive components and is scalable. The process can be used for mass production. For example, multiple nozzles arranged side-by-side can extrude hooks.

[0421] 3D printing allows the plate 6610 or the joining component 6620 to have a hollow internal structure, which allows the plate 6610 or the joining component 6620 to be thicker without sacrificing weight. In addition, if the plate 6610 or the joining component 6620 has a hollow internal structure, the plate 6610 or the joining component 6620 can be easily cut in a preferred direction.

[0422] When 3D printing is performed on the plate 6610 or the joining parts 6620, their shape, size and construction can be customized.

[0423] In some embodiments, the panel 6610, joining component 6620, or tile assembly described herein can be customized. A room can be scanned using a laser-supported 3D camera to obtain room measurements. The panel 6610, joining component 6620, or tile assembly can be automatically generated, thus potentially eliminating the need for on-site adjustments or cutting.

[0424] The base assembly 6600 can be connected to the tile assembly. The ring of the tile assembly can be attached to the bottom surface of the tile assembly, such as the bottom surface of the tile assembly, or a stabilizer or foam backing.

[0425] In some embodiments, plate 6610 may have an expansion joint within the range of plate 6610.

[0426] The base assembly 6600 can be configured to be relatively universally applicable to various surface mountings.

[0427] The plate 6610 or the joining member 66220 may be hollow, have a recess, or have a channel extending through it to reduce weight.

[0428] In some embodiments, the exterior of plate 6610 or joining member 6620 may look the same, and the interior of plate 6610 or joining member 6620 may be changed for a particular purpose.

[0429] In some embodiments, the plate 6610 may be square or hexagonal in shape. The plate 6610 or the joining member 6620 may be relatively flat.

[0430] In some embodiments, for commercial use, a plate 6610 with all hooks may be required for vinyl.

[0431] In some embodiments, a thin surface veneer may be inserted into a mold backed by a plastic backing.

[0432] The base assembly 6600 can be designed with installation tolerances.

[0433] In some embodiments, the raw material for the sheet 6610 or the joining component 6620 may be a low-cost or minimum-cost material of choice. For example, PET may be used to manufacture the sheet 6610 or the joining component 6620. In some embodiments, additives or fillers may be used to optimize features.

[0434] In some embodiments, plate 6610 may be hexagonal in shape.

[0435] In some embodiments, the maximum width or length of the plate 6610 may be 2 feet.

[0436] In some embodiments, the maximum thickness of the plate 6610 may be 1 / 8” or wider to allow for inserts on the side of the plate 6610, such as flanges, tenons, and grooves.

[0437] In some embodiments, the weight of the base assembly 6600 can be as light as possible while maintaining optimized stability or stiffness. For example, the weight could be 0.4416 pounds or kilograms per square foot.

[0438] In some embodiments, cutouts may be present on the back side of plate 6610 for weight optimization. The design of plate 6610 may take into account "coining" and whether flatness may be required.

[0439] In some embodiments, the connector or fastener for securing plate 6610 or engagement member 6620 to a surface below or behind plate 6610 may be a screw landscape. In the case where plate 6610 has a hexagonal shape, the corners of the three plates may converge together. In some embodiments, washers may be required. In some embodiments, other design features may be required. In some embodiments, the corners of plate 6610 may have recesses or double recesses. In some embodiments, a full cap may be used.

[0440] In some embodiments, attachment features may be present for joining the panels 6610 together. These attachment features may be similar to those described herein for tiling components. In some embodiments, the attachment features may be tongues, grooves, or slots for positioning and versatility. In some embodiments, tongue-shaped and groove-shaped flanges may be present at corners and on flat face surfaces.

[0441] In some embodiments, the joints between the plates 6610 may not have space for expansion or contraction. Instead, if needed, cutouts through the plates 6610 can be considered as a series of holes to accommodate expansion or contraction.

[0442] In some embodiments, a plate 6610 for mounting to a wall may have a different connection to another plate 6610 than a plate 6610 for mounting to a floor.

[0443] In some embodiments, the wall design and floor design can effectively be an installation with the same or consistent features.

[0444] In some embodiments, plate 6610 may have additional features for one or more tongue and groove attachment features on all sides of plate 6610 for waterproof installation. In some embodiments, flanges for side-by-side attachment may include features for locking, snap-fit, or male-female connection. In some embodiments, the joint between plates 6610 may be tight to reduce or eliminate any telegraphy. This may result in expansion or contraction. Expansion or contraction can be addressed by "acclimatization" or by recesses or holes with recesses in or on plate 6610.

[0445] The attachment feature of plate 6610 may be a slot without tongues and grooves on both sides.

[0446] In some embodiments, the base assembly 6600 may be a resilient base assembly including an adhesive plate and a disc. The base assembly 6600 may be made of vinyl composite tile (VCT), luxury vinyl tile (LVT), marble, rubber, or polymers, etc. These materials may be sheets.

[0447] In some embodiments, the base assembly 6600 may have a hard surface, such that the base assembly 6600 includes plates and discs with hooks and loops. The base assembly 6600 may be made of ceramic, porcelain, granite, marble, and stone, etc.

[0448] In some embodiments, the base assembly 6600 may have a soft surface, such that the base assembly 6600 includes a plate and a disc with hooks and loops. The base assembly 6600 may be made of carpet, wide-width carpet, or carpet patchwork.

[0449] In some embodiments, the plate 6610 or the joining member 6620 may have raised areas to reduce the contact area with the adhesive backing surface.

[0450] In some embodiments, the engagement member 6620 may be designed to also form raised areas for reducing or eliminating through-printing.

[0451] In some embodiments, the joints where the plates 6610 meet can be designed to reduce or eliminate gaps to mitigate or avoid cracking and through-printing.

[0452] In some embodiments, plate 6610 or bonding member 6620 may be designed to also use auxiliary processes. Plate 6610 or bonding member 6620 may be designed to avoid imprinting.

[0453] In some embodiments, the materials used to manufacture the plate 6610 or the bonding member 6620 can reduce the cost of manufacturing the plate 6610 or the bonding member 6620. The manufacture of the plate 6610 or the bonding member 6620 may include fillers; recycled polymers or polymers.

[0454] In some embodiments, the base assembly 6600 may not have a rib structure, but may have a hexagonal structure, a rectangular rib structure, or another type of rib structure.

[0455] In some embodiments, the base assembly 6600 can be installed vertically, horizontally, or a combination thereof.

[0456] In some embodiments, the engagement member 6620 may have certain dimensions and functions, such as managing vertical loads and being flat in the lateral direction.

[0457] Figure 67 This is a schematic diagram of plate 6610 of base assembly 6600. Figure 67 Two plates 6610 with ribbed structures are shown. In some embodiments, when the plates 6610 are to be mounted on a wall, it may be easier to have ribbed structures than when they are to be mounted on a floor, because the stress applied to the plates 6610 mounted on the wall can be less.

[0458] In some embodiments, the rib structure of plate 6610 may have a structure. For example... Figure 67 As shown, plate 6610 may have, for example, a hexagonal rib structure or a rectangular rib structure. In some embodiments, having a rectangular rib structure may be advantageous for cutting plate 6610.

[0459] Figure 68 This is a schematic diagram of a base assembly 6600 in which plate 6610 is joined by coupling member 6620. Figure 68 As shown, plate 6610 can be mounted horizontally on a surface, wherein the bottom edges of plate 6610 are generally horizontally aligned; or plate 6610 can be mounted vertically or "pointed" on a surface, wherein the corners of plate 6610 point downward.

[0460] In some embodiments, it may be advantageous to mount the plate 6610 vertically or "at the tip". The vertical force can be borne in the vertical direction by an attachment point (e.g., via engagement member 6620). Furthermore, during installation, the plate 6610 can be held in place by the two engagement members 6620, which can stabilize the plate 6610 and facilitate the installation of the base assembly 6600.

[0461] Figure 69 This is a schematic diagram of the base assembly 6600 in which the plate 6610 is mounted horizontally and vertically. With the plate 6610 mounted vertically, the direction of the force 6900 can be more clearly defined. With the plate 6610 mounted horizontally, the force 6900 can attempt to rotate the plate 6610 or the connecting member 6620.

[0462] Figure 70 This is a schematic diagram of the base assembly 6600 in which the plate 6610 is mounted horizontally and vertically. When the plates 6610 are mounted vertically, they can be more stable, such as during the installation of the plates 6610.

[0463] Figure 71 This is a schematic diagram of the base assembly 6600 board. (See diagram below.) Figure 71 As shown, when the base assembly 6600 is being installed, the plate 6610 is connected to the engagement member 6620. Figure 71 A recess 6613 is shown, defined by recesses 6612 of a plurality of plates 6610, which are gathered together to receive a mating member 6620. Figure 71 A channel 6618 is shown, defined by corner channels 6616 of multiple plates 6610, which are brought together to receive a connector for attaching a base assembly 6600 to a surface.

[0464] The shape of the joining part 6620 can be circular, such as in... Figure 71 As depicted in the figure. The engaging member 6620 may be a disc. The engaging member 6620 can mount the plate 6610 onto a surface, transfer vertical loads, or give the plate 6610 lateral flatness. The size of the engaging member 6620 allows it to be connected to the plate 6610.

[0465] Figure 72 This is a schematic diagram of the engagement member 6620 of the base assembly 6600. In some embodiments, the engagement member 6620 may include a plug 7200 for connecting to the plate 6610 or mounting the base assembly 6600 to a surface. In some embodiments, the plug 7200 may be received in a channel 6614 or a corner channel 6616 of the plate 6610.

[0466] Figures 73-74 This is a schematic diagram of the engaging component 6620 of the base assembly 6600. (See diagram below.) Figure 73 As shown, the engaging member 6620 may include an engaging hook 7300 for engaging with the plate 6610 or mounting the base assembly 6600 to a surface. The plate 6610 may have a gap 7310 for receiving the engaging hook 7300 to connect the engaging member 6620 and the plate 6610. The hook 7300 may engage with the gap 7310. The hook 7300 may receive a force applied to the base assembly 6600 in this direction.

[0467] As in Figure 74As depicted, when the hook 7300 is received in the gap 7310, the hook 7300 and the gap 7310 can be configured such that the engaging member 6620 can be twisted to engage with the plate 6610. In some embodiments, a locking member 7400 may be provided between the plate 6610 and the engaging member 6620 to facilitate the connection between the plate 6610 and the engaging member 6620.

[0468] Figure 75 This is a schematic diagram of the engaging component 6620 of the base assembly 6600. Figure 75 In this configuration, the joining component 6620 is connected to the plate 6610. For example... Figure 75 The shown engaging member 6620 may include a barb 7510 on the top 7520 of the engaging member 6620. For example... Figure 75 The shown engaging member 6620 may include a bottom that engages to the top via a post 7540. In some embodiments, the plate 6610 may have a corresponding recess 7515 for receiving a barb 7510 of the engaging member 6620. The plate 6610 or the engaging member 6620 may be configured such that the plate 6610, the engaging member 6620, the barb 7515, or a combination thereof may elastically deform when the plate 6610 and the engaging member 6620 are joined together by receiving the barb 7510 in the recess 7515. The plate 6610, the engaging member 6620, the barb 7515, or a combination thereof may return to their original shape after the barb 7510 is received in the recess 7515.

[0469] In some embodiments, the edge of plate 6610 may be a barb, or may act as a barb when inserted into a recess defined between top portion 7520 and bottom portion 7530.

[0470] like Figure 75 As depicted, plate 6610 can be supported between the top portion 7520 and the bottom portion 7530 of joining member 6620.

[0471] In some embodiments, the engagement member 6620 may have a channel extending through the post 7540 to receive a connector (e.g., a nail, screw, plug, etc.) to attach the plate 6610 and the engagement member 6620 to the surface. In some embodiments, the engagement member 6620 may be made of a material such that the connector can be driven through the post 7540 to attach the plate 6610 and the engagement member 6620 to the surface.

[0472] Figure 76 This is a schematic diagram of a base assembly 6600 having a plate 6610 and a connecting component 6620 assembled together.

[0473] Figure 77This is a schematic diagram of a base assembly 6600 with a gap 7700 on a plate 6610. The gap 7700 allows the plate 6610 to be cut before installation.

[0474] Figure 78 This is a schematic diagram of the base assembly 6600. Figure 78 As shown, the base assembly 6600 can be secured to the surface without each recess 6613 receiving the engagement member 6620. The connection between the base assembly 6600 and the surface can be strong enough that the base assembly 6600 can be secured to the surface without each recess 6613 receiving the engagement member 6620, and is connected to the surface at this point.

[0475] Figure 79 This is a schematic diagram of the base assembly 6600. Plates 6610 can be assembled such that recess 6612 defines recess 6613. Engaging member 6620 can be received in recess 6613. In some embodiments, a screw can be received in the central channel 6622 of engaging member 6620 to attach plate 6610 and engaging member 6620 to a surface. In some embodiments, a screw can be received in the peripheral channel 6624 of engaging member 6620 to connect plate 6610 to engaging member 6620, or to attach plate 6610 and engaging member 6620 to a surface.

[0476] Figure 80 This is a schematic diagram of the base assembly 6600. Figure 80 As shown, the engaging member 6620 can be received in the recess 6612 of the plate 6610. Screws can connect the plate 6610 and the engaging member 6620 together. Screws can be received in corner channels 6616. Screws can be received in channels 6614 to secure the plate 6610 to the surface. Other connectors can be used. In some embodiments, the connector can connect the plate 6610 and the engaging member 6620 together when the central channel 6622 of the engaging member 6620 is aligned with the corner channel 6616 (or the channel 6618 defined by the assembled plates 6610). In some embodiments, the connector can connect the plate 6610 and the engaging member 6620 together and attach the plate 6610 and the engaging member 6620 to the surface when the central channel 6622 of the engaging member 6620 is aligned with the corner channel 6616 (or the channel 6618 defined by the assembled plates 6610).

[0477] In some embodiments, when the channel 6614 of the plate 6610 is aligned with the peripheral channel 6624 of the engagement member 6620, the connector can connect the plate 6610 and the engagement member 6620 together and attach the plate 6610 and the engagement member 6620 to a surface.

[0478] In some embodiments, the recess 6612 may be on a corner of the plate 6610. In some embodiments, the recess 6612 may be on a side of the plate 6610.

[0479] Figure 81 This is a schematic diagram of the base assembly 6600 being assembled. As shown, the first row 8110 is mounted on the surface, and then the second row 8120 is mounted on the surface. In some embodiments, the rows can be installed starting from the bottom row and then upwards. In some embodiments, the first row can be installed, and then the second row can be installed relative to the first row.

[0480] Figure 82 This is a schematic diagram of the base assembly 6600 being assembled. As shown, the first row 8210 is mounted on the surface, then the second row 8220 is mounted on the surface, and then the third row 8230 is mounted on the surface. The tiles can be cut to fit the surface. For example, if the first row 8210 is mounted on a wall, the tiles of the first row 8210 can be cut so that the bottom of the tiles is flush with the floor to which the tiles are attached.

[0481] Figure 83 This is a schematic diagram of the corner of plate 6610 of base assembly 6600. (See diagram below.) Figure 83 As shown, the recess 6612 of the plate 6610 has a slot 8300 extending through the recess 6612. The slot 8300 may be configured to receive a connector for attaching the plate 6610 to a surface, or may be configured to receive a corresponding feature on the engagement member 6620 to attach the plate 6610 to the engagement member 6620.

[0482] Figure 84 This is a schematic diagram of the corner of plate 6610 of base assembly 6600. (See diagram below.) Figure 84 As shown, the recess 6612 of the plate 6610 has a slot 8300 extending through the recess 6612. The slot 8300 may be configured to receive a connector for attaching the plate 6610 to a surface, or may be configured to receive a corresponding feature on the engagement member 6620 to attach the plate 6610 to the engagement member 6620. In some embodiments, the plate 6610 may have a grid or rib feature 8400 thereon.

[0483] Figure 85 This is a schematic diagram of plate 6610 of base assembly 6600. (See diagram below.) Figure 85 As shown, the corners of plate 6610 can be largely similar. For example, as Figure 85 Each corner of the plate 6610 shown may include a slot 8300. Figure 85 The plate 6610 shown may have a grid or rib feature 8400.

[0484] Figure 86 This is a schematic diagram of a base assembly 6600 having another attachment feature. (See diagram below.) Figure 86 As shown, plate 6610 may include a tenon 8400 for engaging with a corresponding groove 8410 of another plate 6610 to connect the two plates 6610. In some embodiments, plate 6610 may include a groove 8410. The groove 8410 may be offset to facilitate manufacturability or formability. Thus, plates 6610 having either a tenon 8400 or a groove 8410 can be connected to each other using the tenon 8400 and the groove 8410.

[0485] In some embodiments, the connector 6610 for connecting the plate 6610 to the engagement member 6620 or for connecting the plate 6610 and the engagement member 6620 to the surface may be a nail, screw, plug, another fastener, etc.

[0486] In some embodiments, the length of the plate 6610 measured between two opposite corners may be 2 feet.

[0487] In some embodiments, gaps may exist between hook areas used to join plates 6610 together or to attach plates 6610 to a surface.

[0488] In some embodiments, the plate 6610 and the joining member 6620 may be made of a material or formed to a size that reduces sound or improves the sound insulation of the room.

[0489] In some embodiments, the surface on which the base assembly 6600 is mounted can be a floor or a wall. In some embodiments, the surface can be wood, paving, carpet, foam, drywall, brick, concrete, etc.

[0490] Figure 87 This is a schematic diagram of multiple plates 6610 and coupling parts 6620 of the base assembly 6600. The base assembly 6600 can be connected to the surface 8700.

[0491] Figure 88-92 This is a schematic diagram of another attachment feature of the plate 6610 of the base assembly 6600.

[0492] Figure 88A plate 6610 is shown, having a tenon 8800 extending from a corner of the plate. The tenon 8800 can be received by a corresponding recess in another plate 6610. The tenon 8800 can be a protrusion extending from one or more sides of the plate 6610. Figure 88 As shown, the shape of the tenon 8800 is generally similar to the side of the plate 6610 from which the tenon 8800 extends. For example, as Figure 88 As shown, the tenon 8800 has an arrow shape pointing outward from the plate 6610. The tenon 8800 may have other shapes, such as those similar to the attachment features described herein with respect to the mortise assembly.

[0493] In some embodiments, the tenon 8800 may extend from one or more corners of the plate 6610. In some embodiments, the tenon 8800 may extend from one or more sides of the plate 6610.

[0494] Figure 89 A plate 6610 is depicted having a tenon 8800 extending from a corner of the plate 6610. In some embodiments, the top surface of the tenon 8800 may be lower than the top surface of the plate 6610. In some embodiments, the bottom surface 8800 of the tenon may be higher than the bottom surface of the plate 6610.

[0495] In some embodiments, the tenon 8800 may be received in a groove having a shape generally similar to that of the tenon 8800.

[0496] In some embodiments, the tenon may be a flange that connects one plate 6610 to another plate 6610.

[0497] Figure 90 An example tenon 9000 for a mortise and tenon joint is shown. The tenon 9000 can be an attachment feature for the tiling assembly or base assembly described herein. As shown, an example thickness of the tenon 9000 can be 1 / 16". An example distance between the top surface of the tiling or panel and the top surface of the tenon 9000 can be 1 / 32". An example distance between the bottom surface of the tiling or panel and the bottom surface of the tenon 9000 can be 1 / 32". An example thickness of the tiling or panel can be 1 / 8". In some embodiments, the length of the tenon 9000 extending from the edge of the tiling or panel can be such that the tenon and the groove are sufficiently connected to join two tiling assemblies or two panels together.

[0498] Figure 91 Example tenon 9100 is depicted. (Example) Figure 91 As shown, the tenon 9100 may have a first portion 9110 and a second portion 9120 that may be offset from the first portion 9110. In some embodiments, the first portion 9110 and the second portion 9120 may not be offset and may be generally horizontal and extend from the side of the tile or panel.

[0499] Figure 92 A plate 6610 is depicted, which has a tenon 9200 and a groove 9210 for receiving a tenon 9210 of another plate 6610. (See image) Figure 92 As shown, plate 6610 has three tenons 9200 and three recesses 9210. The tenons 9200 can extend from the three corners of plate 6610, and the recesses 9210 can extend into the three corners of the plate. In some embodiments, plate 6610 may have one or more tenons 9200 or one or more recesses 9210. Figure 92 As shown, the three tenons 9200 are adjacent to each other, and the three recesses 9210 are adjacent to each other. In some embodiments, the tenons 9200 and recesses 9210 may be in other positions for connecting plate 6610 to another plate 6610.

[0500] Figure 93 This is a schematic diagram for assembling the base assembly 6600. (See diagram below.) Figure 93 As shown, each plate 6610 may have the same intrinsic orientation. Plate 6610 may have a tongue 9200 and a groove 9210 for connection with other plates 6610. (As shown...) Figure 93 As shown, the tenon 9200 and the groove 9210 may be located on the side of the plate 6610. In some embodiments, the tenon 9200 and the groove 9210 may be located at the corner of the plate 6610. The plates 6610 may be joined together in the same and intrinsic orientation such that the intrinsic corners of the plates 6610 converge together, so that the tenons and grooves of the plates 6610 may be aligned to join the plates 6610 together.

[0501] Figure 94 This is a schematic diagram for assembling the base assembly 6600. (See diagram below.) Figure 94 As shown, similar to Figure 93 Each plate 6610 may have the same intrinsic orientation. Plate 6610 may have tenons and grooves for joining with other plates 6610. Plates 6610 may be joined together with the same intrinsic orientation such that the intrinsic corners of plates 6610 are brought together, so that the tenons and grooves of plates 6610 can be aligned to join the plates 6610 together.

[0502] As in Figure 94 As depicted, the plate 6610 may have a tenon 9200 extending from the side of the plate 6610, and also a tenon 9200 extending from the corner of the plate 6610. The plate 6610 may have a groove 9210 at the corner of the plate 6610 to receive the tenon 9200 extending from the corner of the plate 6610.

[0503] Figure 95 This is a schematic diagram for assembling the base assembly 6600. (See diagram below.) Figure 95 As shown, plate 6610 may have a tenon 9200 extending from the corner of plate 6610. Plate 6610 may have a groove 9210 at the corner of plate 6610 to receive the tenon 9200 extending from the corner of plate 6610.

[0504] Figures 96-97 This is a schematic diagram of a base assembly with another attachment feature.

[0505] As in Figure 96 The depicted attachment feature can be a clip 9600. For example... Figure 96 As shown, clamp 9600 engages two plates 6610. In some embodiments, clamp 9600 may be detachable from plates 6610, i.e., clamp 9600 may be a separate attachment feature. Figure 96 As shown, the end of the clamp 9600 may be angled, tilted, chamfered, or otherwise shaped to be received in a corresponding recess 9610 of the plate 6610. The clamp 9600 may be elastically deformable, such that after being inserted into the recess 9610, the clamp 9600 may elastically deform to facilitate insertion into the recess 9610. After the clamp 9600 is inserted into the recess 9610, the clamp 9600 may return to its original position.

[0506] As in Figure 96 As depicted, clamp 9600 connects two plates 6610 along the side of plate 6610. In some embodiments, clamp 9600 can join the corners of plates 6610 together.

[0507] In some embodiments, the clamp 9600 may include one or more tips 9620 for inserting the clamp 9600 into the recess 9610. Figure 96 The clamp 9600 depicted may include four tips 9620. In some embodiments, a gap 9630 may be defined between two tips 9620 to facilitate elastic deformation of the tips 9620 when the clamp 9600 is inserted into the recess 9610.

[0508] In some embodiments, the clamp 9600 may be integrally formed with or joined to the plate 6610. For example... Figure 97 As shown, the clamp 9600 is engaged to the side of the plate 6610. In some embodiments, the clamp 9600 may be engaged to a corner of the plate 6610. Figure 97 The fixture 9600 shown has two tips 9620, with a gap 9630 defined between the two tips 9620.

[0509] Figure 98This is a schematic diagram of the attachment features of the base assembly 6600. In some embodiments, the attachment features may be a series of interlocking pins 9810 for connecting the plates 6610 together.

[0510] In some embodiments, the attachment features may be a protrusion 9820 and a recess 9830 for receiving the protrusion 9820 to join the plates 6610 together. The protrusion 9820 and the recess 9830 may be along the side or edge of the plate 6610, or along the top or bottom surface of the plate 6610.

[0511] Figure 99 This is a schematic diagram of the attachment features of the base assembly 6600. In some embodiments, the attachment features may be a series of interlocking pins 9900 for connecting plates 6610 together. In some embodiments, pins 9900 may be vertical hook pins. In some embodiments, pins 9900 may be angled pins that can form a bridge over the gap defined between the two plates 6610.

[0512] Figure 100 This is a schematic diagram of the attachment features of the base assembly. In some embodiments, the adhesive tab 10000 can be used to join two plates 6610 together or to attach plates 6610 to a surface. The adhesive tab 10000 may have one or more protective caps on either side of the peelable tab 10000. The adhesive tab 10000 may be attached to the top surface, bottom surface, or side or edge of the plate 6610.

[0513] In some embodiments, the attachment feature may be a clamp 10010. The clamp 10010 may be similar to the clamp 9600, except that the clamp 10010 may have a locking mechanism 10020. The locking mechanism 10020 may have a default outward position, such as... Figure 100 As shown (e.g., an outwardly supported spring). When the clamp 10010 is being inserted into the recess, the recess can push the locking mechanism 10020 inward, thereby allowing the clamp 10010 to be inserted into the recess. When the clamp 10010 is received in the recess, the locking mechanism 10020 can extend outward, thereby locking the clamp 10010 in the recess.

[0514] In some embodiments, the attachment feature may be a clamp 10040. The clamp 10040 may be similar to the clamp 9600. Figure 100 As shown, the size and shape of the clamp 10040 may have angled sides to facilitate insertion into the recess 10030.

[0515] As in Figure 100As depicted, the base assembly 6600 of plate 6610 may not all be the same shape. For example, plate 6610a may have a generally octagonal shape, and plate 6610b may have a generally square shape. Plates 6610a and 6610b may be joined together to form base assembly 6600.

[0516] Figure 101 This is a schematic diagram of the attachment features of the base assembly.

[0517] In some embodiments, the attachment features may be a tenon 10110 and a groove 10120. In some embodiments, the thickness of the tenon 10110 and the groove 10120 may be approximately 1 / 16". In some embodiments, the distance from the top surface of the plate 6610 to the top edge of the groove 10120 may be approximately 1 / 32". In some embodiments, the distance from the bottom surface of the plate 6610 to the bottom edge of the groove 10120 may be approximately 1 / 32".

[0518] In some embodiments, the attachment feature may be a clamp 10130. The clamp 10130 may be similar to the clamp 9600, except that the clamp 10130 may have a flexible side that can be inserted into the recess 10140. When being inserted into the recess 10140, the flexible side of the clamp 10130 may elastically deform until the clamp 10130 is received in the recess 10140. The clamp 10130 then returns to its original shape.

[0519] Figure 102 This is a schematic diagram of the other plate 6610 of the base assembly 6600.

[0520] In some embodiments, plate 6610 may have opposing tenons or flanges 10200 extending from opposite angles of plate 6610. In some embodiments, plate 6610 may have opposing tenons or flanges 10200 extending from opposite sides of plate 6610.

[0521] In some embodiments, plate 6610 may include one or more through holes or recesses 10210 to reduce the overall weight of plate 6610 or to reduce the expansion or contraction of plate 6610 (e.g., due to temperature). Through holes may extend from the top surface of plate 6610 through plate 6610 to the bottom surface of plate 6610. Recesses may be similar to through holes but may not extend through plate 6610. Recesses may begin from either the top or bottom surface of plate 6610.

[0522] In some embodiments, the mating member 6620 may have one or more through holes or recesses 10210

[0523] Figure 103This is a schematic diagram of the four plates 6610 of the base assembly 6600, which are connected by the connecting member 6620. (See diagram below.) Figure 103 As shown, one of the plates 6610 has a through hole or recess 10210. The through hole or recess 10210 can be circular, or it can be another shape, such as a triangle, square, rectangle, pentagon, hexagon, octagon, irregular shape, etc. The plate 6610 may have one or more through holes or recesses 10210. The number and size of the through holes or recesses 10210 may depend on the amount of weight reduction of the plate 6610 and how the expansion or contraction of the plate 6610 is controlled.

[0524] Through holes or recesses 10210 can reduce the weight of plate 6610. For example, through holes or recesses 10210 can reduce the weight of plate 6610 by approximately 30%.

[0525] Through-holes or recesses 10210 can reduce the contact area for surface coverage. For example, through-holes or recesses 10210 can reduce the surface coverage by approximately 50%.

[0526] Through-holes or recesses 10210 can reduce the contact area without increasing the possibility of through-printing. The design of through-holes or recesses 10210 can avoid linear directions such as straight lines or protrusions or depressions.

[0527] Through holes or recesses 10210 can reduce the cost of materials used in manufacturing plate 6610 and mating parts 6620.

[0528] Through-holes or recesses 10210 can create atmospheric stability in order to create closure of the “gap” between plate 6610 and mating member 6620.

[0529] In some embodiments, the mold used to manufacture the plate 6610 (e.g., a cavity mold) may be modified to manufacture the plate 6610, taking into account the through holes or recesses 10210.

[0530] In some embodiments, overlap can be rationalized and designed.

[0531] The through-hole or recess 10210 can result in cost savings when manufacturing the base assembly 6600.

[0532] For example, the estimated weight of the base assembly 6600 could be approximately 4 pounds per square yard.

[0533] For example calculations, the through-hole or recess 10210 can reduce the weight of the base assembly 6600 by approximately 30%. Therefore, the weight reduction of the base assembly 6600 with the through-hole or recess 10210 could be 4 pounds per square yard × 30% = 1.2 pounds per square yard, leaving 2.8 pounds per square yard for balancing the weight.

[0534] For example, to reduce costs (and if an increase in the base weight of the board is required), filler can be used. For instance, 30% filler can be used. 30% filler = 30% x 2.8 lbs / yard² = 0.84 lbs / yard². If the estimated cost of the filler is 0.20 cents, then the cost of the filler = 0.84 lbs / yard² x 0.20 cents / lb = 0.168 cents / yard². The remaining weight of the base assembly 6600 can be manufactured using a polymer such as recycled polymer. If the estimated cost of the polymer is 0.45 cents / lb, then the cost of the polymer is 1.96 lbs / yard² x 0.45 cents / lb = 0.882 cents / yard². Therefore, the estimated cost of the base assembly 6600 with through holes or recesses 10210 could be 0.168 cents / square yard + 0.882 cents / square yard = 1.05 cents / square yard = 0.116 cents / square foot.

[0535] A base assembly 6600 without through holes or recesses 10210 may cost more than a base assembly 6600 with through holes or recesses 10210 because more material needs to be used to manufacture the base assembly 6600 without through holes or recesses 10210.

[0536] The weight of the base assembly 6600 may include the additional thickness for the bonding plate 6610 and the bonding member 6620 to eliminate the need for overprinting.

[0537] For illustrative purposes, the weight of the base assembly 6600 could be between 4.75 and 5.33 pounds per square yard. Approximately 30% of this weight could be reduced by through-holes or recesses 10210. Of the remaining 70% of the weight, 30% could be filler (costing 0.20 cents per pound), while the remaining 70% could be recycled polymer (costing 0.40 cents per pound).

[0538] For a base assembly 6600 with an initial weight of 4.75 lbs / yard square, the weight reduction of the through-hole or recess 10210 will be 4.75 lbs / yard square x 30% = 1.2 per yard square, so the weight of the base assembly 6600 will be 2.8 lbs / yard square. If 30% of this weight is filler, the cost is 30% x 2.8 lbs / yard square x 0.20 cents / lb = 0.168 cents / yard square. If 70% of this weight is recycled polymer, the cost is 70% x 2.8 lbs / yard square x 0.40 cents / lb = 0.784 cents / yard square. The total cost will be (0.168 cents / yard square + 0.784 cents / yard square) / 9 sq ft / yard square = 0.105 cents / sq ft.

[0539] Similar calculations can be performed for a base assembly 6600 that initially weighs 5.33 pounds per square yard. This would result in a cost of 0.14 cents per square foot.

[0540] Figure 104 This is a schematic diagram of a plate 6610 of a base assembly 6600 having a recess and a through hole 10210.

[0541] Figure 105 This is a schematic diagram of plate 6610 of base assembly 6600. (See diagram below.) Figure 105 As shown, plate 6610 can be an irregular shape, hexagonal, square, or octagonal. Plate 6610 can have... Figure 105 Another shape not shown (e.g., triangle, pentagon, heptagon, circle, ellipse, polygon, etc.).

[0542] As in Figure 105 The depicted plates 6610 of different shapes can be joined together to form a base assembly. In some embodiments, the plates 6610 on the bottom row can be irregularly shaped to fit the edges of the surface on which the plates 6610 are mounted.

[0543] Figure 106 This is a schematic diagram of mounting the base assembly 6600 onto the surface.

[0544] Figure 107 This is a schematic diagram of mounting the base assembly 6600 to a surface. In some embodiments, such as Figure 107 As shown, the first plate 6610 and the joining member 6620 can be mounted on the bottom of the surface, and then more plates 6610 and joining members 6620 can be used to build the base assembly 6600 upwards.

[0545] Figure 108 This is a schematic diagram of mounting the base assembly 6600 onto the surface. (See diagram below.) Figure 108 As shown, there can be a sequence in which the mounting plates 6610 are installed. In some embodiments, the plates 6610 can be installed in a row. For example, as Figure 108 As shown, plate 6610, marked "1", can be installed first. Then, plate 6610, marked "2", can be installed second. Then, plate 6610, marked "3", can be installed third, and so on. Engaging member 6620 can be used to connect plates 6610 together or to attach plates 6610 to a surface.

[0546] Figure 109 This is a schematic diagram of mounting the base assembly 6600 onto the surface. (See diagram below.) Figure 109 As shown, there can be a sequence in which the mounting plates 6610 are installed. In some embodiments, the plates 6610 can be installed in a row. For example, as... Figure 108As shown, plate 6610 marked "1A" can be installed first. Then, plate 6610 marked "1B" can be installed second. Then, plate 6610 marked "2" can be installed third. Then, plate 6610 marked "3" can be installed fourth, and so on. Engaging member 6620 can be used to connect plates 6610 together or to attach plates 6610 to a surface.

[0547] like Figure 109 As depicted, plate 6610 may have a tenon 10810 and a groove 10820 for alignment with plate 6610. Plate 6610 or mating member 6620 may be attached to a surface, for example, by using screws or double-sided adhesive.

[0548] The bottom row of plate 6610 may be level with the edge of the surface of base assembly 6600 on which it rests.

[0549] Figure 110 This is a schematic diagram of the tiling system mounted on the base assembly 6600. The tiling system can be defined by tiling components 100 or 4000, as described herein.

[0550] In some embodiments, the base assembly 6600 has a hook on its top surface. In some embodiments, the tiling system has a corresponding loop on its bottom surface. The tiling system can be mounted to the base assembly 6600 using hooks and loops. In some embodiments, other mechanical connections can connect the tiling system to the base assembly 6600.

[0551] Figure 111 This is a schematic diagram of a wall 11100 used to mount the base assembly 6600. The wall 11100 may have corners and protruding walls.

[0552] In some embodiments, the base assembly 6600 can be attached to a wall, and the tile assembly can be attached to the base assembly 6600 using hooks and loops. In some embodiments, the tile assembly can use a 2.5mm thick vinyl material. In some embodiments, the tile assembly or tile system can be 1.22m wide and 3.6m high. The vinyl material can be pre-formed on a hot bending machine before installation.

[0553] The tiling components, tiling systems, and base components described in this article can be used in harsh environments. For example, temperatures can range from -25°C to 60°C.

[0554] In some embodiments, screws can be used to fasten the base assembly to the surface.

[0555] In cases where hook and loop fasteners can be used to connect the base assembly to the tiling system, a portion of the bottom surface of the tiling system may have a hook or loop, or a portion of the top surface of the base assembly may have the other of a hook or loop.

[0556] In some embodiments, the plate 6610 or the joining member 6620 may be made of recycled PET. The thickness of the plate 6610 or the joining member 6620 may be a minimum thickness that allows the plate 6610 or the joining member 6620 to function.

[0557] By using recycled PET, the swelling characteristics can be removed because it is more stable in terms of temperature.

[0558] Figure 112 This is a flowchart S11200 depicting a method for assembling and using a tile system to cover a floor. The tile system may include two tiles stacked together with material reinforcement between them.

[0559] In S11202, the first and second collages are joined to a reinforcing material disposed therebetween. The first collage can be stacked on top of the second collage. This can define the first collage assembly.

[0560] In S11204, similar to S11202, the first and second collages are joined to a reinforcing material disposed therebetween. The first collage can be stacked on top of the second collage. This can define the second collage assembly.

[0561] In S11206, the first tiling assembly and the second tiling assembly are connected by a connector to define the tiling system. The connector may have a first part and a second part complementary to the first part, wherein the first tiling assembly has the first part and the second tiling assembly has the second part.

[0562] In S11208, the tiling system is allowed to float freely on the floor. When placed on the floor, the tiling system can float freely. In some embodiments, the tiling system can self-level based on the texture or contour of the floor or surface on which it is laid. In some embodiments, the tiling system can be installed on top of an existing floor or substrate. In some embodiments, sand can be used to partially level the existing floor or substrate when it is uneven. In some embodiments, the tiling system can be installed on top of an uneven existing floor or substrate without using any leveling material between the existing floor / substrate and the tiling system. That is, the tiling system is installed in a “free-floating” manner, not attached to the existing floor or substrate underneath. This configuration can be removed relatively easily compared to tiling systems that require the tiles to be fixed or secured to the floor or substrate in some way.

[0563] Figure 113This is a flowchart S11300 depicting a method for mounting a tiling system onto a surface using a base assembly.

[0564] In S11302, plates and coupling components are mounted on the surface. The coupling components can join multiple plates together. Fasteners such as screws, nails, plugs, adhesives, etc., can be used to attach the plates and coupling components to the surface. In some embodiments, the bottom row of plates and coupling components can be installed first. Then, more plates and coupling components can be used to mount more of the base assembly upwards.

[0565] In S11304, the first and second collages are joined to a reinforcing material disposed therebetween. The first collage can be stacked on top of the second collage. This can define the first collage assembly.

[0566] In S11306, similar to S11304, the first and second collages are joined to a reinforcing material disposed therebetween. The first collage can be stacked on top of the second collage. This can define the second collage assembly.

[0567] In S11308, the first tiling assembly and the second tiling assembly are connected by a connector to define the tiling system. The connector may have a first part and a second part complementary to the first part, wherein the first tiling assembly has the first part and the second tiling assembly has the second part.

[0568] In S11310, the tiling system is connected to the base assembly. The tiling system and the base assembly can be connected together using hooks and loops. For example, the surface of the tiling system has hooks or loops, while the surface of the base assembly has another type of hook or loop. The surfaces of the tiling system and the base assembly with hooks and loops can be engaged so that the hooks and loops engage, and the tiling system is connected to the base assembly.

[0569] Figure 114 This is a schematic diagram of spectral printing on a floor when using laid vinyl. In some embodiments, spectral printing may occur on the laid vinyl. Figure 114 As shown, the seam of the hook plates can be seen. In some embodiments, a joining component can be seen. The vinyl may stand upright at the seam defined between the plates. This may be due to the hookless areas on the edges of the hook plates plus the extended gaps, which can create relatively large areas without hooks.

[0570] Figure 115 This is a schematic diagram of the circular object 11500 on the tiling component 100. The force applied to the tiling component and the stress experienced by the tiling component can be distributed on the tiling component, which can improve the strength of the tiling component.

[0571] Figure 116 This is a diagram of the corner of the collage.

[0572] Figure 117 This is a schematic diagram of the collage components.

[0573] In some embodiments, a patch with a flat back and a patch for supporting the back can be used, and they are laminated together with a suitable fibrous fabric material.

[0574] In some embodiments, a cavity may be present between two tiles of a tile assembly having two tiles overlapping each other. The tile assembly may have features that reduce the number of cavities or mitigate the formation of cavities between two tiles.

[0575] In some embodiments, the material used to join two tiles together to form a tile assembly can be specific to the type of tile used. For example, if Laminam® tiles are used, a bonding agent for the Laminam® tiles should be used. This allows stress to be properly transferred through the tiles and through the reinforcing layer (e.g., a fiberglass layer).

[0576] In some embodiments, one or more steps of the manufacturing process for the tiling components can be automated, for example, using robots. For instance, trays, adhesives, and fixtures used for rolling and tiling can be automated using robots.

[0577] In some embodiments, the tile and base assemblies described herein can be tested using the Bobinson test. A machine can be used to repeatedly apply loads using wheels, representing several years of traffic. During the test, cracking, deterioration of attachment features or grouting, and the degree of waterproofing of the tile and base assemblies can be evaluated.

[0578] In some embodiments, the machine used to manufacture the collage components may include microbes.

[0579] In some embodiments, grouting can be conventional grouting. When repairing attachment features or grouting, a chisel or chopping tool can be used at the affected area, and the grout can be removed. In some embodiments, the tiling components can remain connected when grouting is applied.

[0580] In some embodiments, a mosaic tile made of marble can be laminated onto a mosaic tile made of ceramic.

[0581] The tiling and base assemblies described herein can be installed without extensive technical skills or experience. These parts are easy to assemble and install on surfaces. The tiling and base assemblies can be installed on surfaces without the use of underlying layers or supporting surfaces such as screens, beds, mortar, or grout.

[0582] Because tile and base assemblies can be installed on a surface without the use of underlayment or support surfaces such as screens, beds, mortar, or grout, the inconveniences associated with using these underlayment or support surfaces can be avoided. For example, there is no need to level the mortar before installing the tile or base assemblies on the surface.

[0583] Because no mortar or grouting finishing is required, time can be saved when installing the tile or base components onto the surface.

[0584] In some embodiments, the reinforcing material between two tiles of the tiling assembly can be varied depending on the application of the tiling assembly. As discussed herein, the reinforcing material can be glass fiber. In some embodiments, the reinforcing material can be Kevlar®. Therefore, the tiling assembly can have military applications.

[0585] In some embodiments, the tiling component can be used as a free-floating and self-leveling flooring for nautical crafts such as boats or cruise ships.

[0586] A tiling system, comprising interconnected tiling components, can self-level when installed on the floor. This can improve or facilitate walking on the tiling system.

[0587] In some embodiments, the tiling components may have sound insulation or noise reduction capabilities.

[0588] In some embodiments, if the grout is installed on a tiling system with tiling components, the tiling system can prevent or reduce the frequency of grout ejection.

[0589] In some embodiments, the tile assembly and base assembly can reduce the cost of remodeling. For example, if a floor covered with conventional tiles is damaged, the entire floor may have to be replaced. If the floor is covered with the tile assembly described herein, only the damaged tile assembly can be replaced.

[0590] In some embodiments, holes may be cut into the tile assembly or base assembly.

[0591] In some embodiments, marble or another top surface may be laminated.

[0592] Because the collage and base components are relatively easy to use, assemble, or install, labor costs and skill costs can be reduced.

[0593] In some embodiments, the systems and methods described herein can allow for the pre-packaging of overall floor areas and walls. For example, precise dimensions of walls, rooms, or areas can be obtained quickly and effortlessly using conventional equipment (e.g., an application on a mobile computing device that may contain optical measuring equipment). Alternatively, precise measurements can be provided or collected by the customer. Images can also be used to calculate room dimensions. Using these dimensions, the tiles can be pre-assembled and pre-cut by the manufacturer. These pre-assembled and pre-cut tiles can be packaged for delivery and on-site installation. Without requiring the services of skilled professionals (who must make decisions and cut tiles on-site), the systems, methods, and products disclosed herein allow for the relatively simple installation of pre-assembled tiles in a free-floating manner. This results in significant labor savings compared to conventional tiling systems that would require expert-level manual labor.

[0594] Tiled or base assemblies offer environmental benefits. During installation, no additional cementing or grouting is required, reducing clutter. Individual tile components can be removed, minimizing clutter during disassembly. Tiled components are also easily disassembled and reused. In some embodiments, using tiled components generates minimal dust and requires no additional adhesives or materials to bond them together. When using tiled components, pre-processing of the underlying surface (e.g., applying mortar to the floor, sanding walls, redoing drywall, etc.) is unnecessary.

[0595] The foregoing discussion has provided many exemplary embodiments. Although each embodiment represents a single combination of inventive elements, other examples may include all suitable combinations of the disclosed elements. Thus, if one embodiment includes elements A, B, and C, while a second embodiment includes elements B and D, other remaining combinations of A, B, C, or D may also be used.

[0596] The term “connection” or “coupled to” can include direct coupling (where two elements coupled to each other are in contact with each other) and indirect coupling (where at least one additional element is located between the two elements).

[0597] Although the embodiments have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions and modifications can be made to this document.

[0598] Furthermore, the scope of this application is not intended to be limited to the specific embodiments of the processes, machines, manufactures, material compositions, means, methods, and steps described in the specification. As will be readily understood by those skilled in the art from the disclosure of this invention, processes, machines, manufactures, material compositions, means, methods, or steps that currently exist or will be developed thereafter and perform substantially the same function, or that can produce substantially the same results as the corresponding embodiments described herein, are possible. Therefore, the appended claims are intended to include such processes, machines, manufactures, material compositions, means, methods, or steps within their scope.

[0599] As will be understood, the embodiments described and illustrated above are intended to be merely illustrative. The invention is defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A tiling system for mounting on a free-floating basis to form a surface cover on a substrate without attaching tiling components to the substrate, said tiling system comprising: A first collage component is configured to connect to a second collage component, each of the first and second collage components including: A first collage is incorporated into a stabilizing material layer, the first collage being made of stone or ceramic material; The first tiling assembly further includes a first attachment member connected thereto and extending along a first side surface of the first tiling piece of the first tiling assembly, and the second tiling assembly further includes a second attachment member connected thereto and extending along a first side surface of the first tiling piece of the second tiling assembly. The first tiling assembly further includes a third attachment member connected thereto and extending along a second side surface adjacent to the first side surface of the first tiling assembly; and the second tiling assembly further includes a fourth attachment member connected thereto and extending along a second side surface adjacent to the first side surface of the first tiling assembly. The second attachment member is complementary in shape to the first attachment member, and the first and second attachment members have a locking feature; the fourth attachment member is complementary in shape to the third attachment member, and the third and fourth attachment members have tenon and groove features. Choose one of the following two: The second attachment component is configured to receive the first attachment component to form a detachable connection between the first and second tiling components; or The fourth attachment component is configured to receive the third attachment component to form a detachable connection between the first and second tiling components. The first, second, third, and fourth attachment components are extensible, and each includes micro-features such that when the first and second tiling assemblies are joined, the first, second, third, and fourth attachment components resemble conventional grouting.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The detachable connection between the first tiling assembly and the second tiling assembly has mechanical resistance connecting the first tiling assembly and the second tiling assembly.

3. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The first attachment member has a ridge that is received in a corresponding channel of the second attachment member, and one of the first attachment members and the second attachment member is multiple and extends at discrete locations along a first side of the first tiling assembly, and the other of the first attachment member and the second attachment member extends along the entire first side or a portion of the entire first side of the second tiling assembly to form an arrangement in which multiple of the first attachment members and the second attachment members are attached to the edges and bottom of the first tiling assembly and the second tiling assembly, and are separate from the stabilizer.

4. The system according to claim 1, wherein, in, The third attachment member has ribs that are received in slots in the fourth attachment member, and one of the third and fourth attachment members is multiple and extends at discrete locations along the second side of the first tiling assembly, and the other of the third and fourth attachment members extends along the entire second side or a portion of the entire second side of the second tiling assembly to form an arrangement in which multiple of the third and fourth attachment members are attached to the other, wherein the first and second attachment members are connected to the edges and bottoms of the first and second tiling assemblies and are separate from the stabilizer.

5. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The first collage is stacked on top of the second collage, which is bonded to a stable material layer disposed between the first collage and the second collage.

6. The system according to claim 1, wherein, When the first tiling assembly and the second tiling assembly are connected, the first attachment part and the second attachment part engage in a frictional fit.

7. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The first and third attachment components are disposed on at least two sides of the first tiling assembly, and the second and fourth attachment components are disposed on at least two sides of the second tiling assembly.

8. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The first attachment component is disposed on all sides of the first tiling assembly.

9. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The second attachment component is disposed on all sides of the second tiling assembly.

10. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The first attachment is a tenon, and the second attachment is a groove.

11. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The exposed surface of the first tile of the first tiling assembly is substantially level with the exposed surface of the first tile of the second tiling assembly.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein the first tiling component and the second tiling component define a gap between them.

13. The system according to claim 12, wherein, The gap is approximately 3 / 16 inch.

14. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The first and second attachment components are liquids or partial liquids applied in the field.

15. A tiling system for mounting on a free-floating basis to form a surface cover on a substrate without attaching tiling components to the substrate, said tiling system comprising: A first tiling assembly is configured to be connected to a second tiling assembly via a separate attachment member 9600, the end of which is shaped to be received in corresponding recesses 9610 of the first and second tiling assemblies. The attachment member 9600 is elastically deformable such that, upon insertion into the recess 9610, it elastically deforms to further insert itself into the recess 9610. The attachment member 9600 includes a plurality of tips 9620 for inserting the attachment member 9600 into the recess 9610, wherein a gap 9630 is defined between at least two of the plurality of tips to promote elastic deformation of the tips 9620 when the attachment member 9600 is inserted into the recess 9610. Each of the first and second collage components includes: The first collage is incorporated into a stable material layer, the first collage being made of stone or ceramic material.

Images