A tool for a tile spacer system

Abstract

A tool (100, 200, 300) for assisting with fastening a tile spacer cap (40) to a tile spacer (10) of a tile spacer system. The tool comprises a first engagement element (104, 204, 304) to engage with a stem (30) of the tile spacer, a second engagement element (106, 206, 306) to engage with the tile spacer cap, and a handle (102, 202, 302) to be manipulated by a user. In use, the at least one tile is positioned on a base (20) of the tile spacer and the tile spacer cap is positioned on the tile with the stem extending through the opening in the tile spacer cap such that the tile spacer cap and the tile spacer are coupled together. The tool can then be positioned such that the first engagement element engages the stem, and the second engagement element engages the tile spacer cap, and the handle can be moved relative to the base to cause the tile spacer cap to move towards the base.

Description

[0001] A TOOL FOR A TILE SPACER SYSTEM

[0002] Field of the Invention

[0003] The invention relates generally to a tile spacer system for spacing and levelling tiles on a substrate, such as a floor or a wall.

[0004] The invention relates more particularly to a tool for assisting with fastening a tile spacer cap to a tile spacer of a tile spacer system; a method of using the tool to fasten the tile spacer cap to the tile spacer of the tile spacer system; a method of installing tiles using the tile spacer, the tile spacer cap and the tool; a method of using the tool to unfasten the tile spacer cap from the tile spacer of the tile spacer system; and a tile spacing kit that comprises the tool, the tile spacer cap and the tile spacer.

[0005] Background of the Invention

[0006] When laying tiles on a floor or a wall or any other suitable substrate, it is important that an installer ensure that the tiles are correctly positioned such that a separation distance between adjacent tiles is consistent and outwardly-facing surfaces form a level, planar surface.

[0007] In order to assist to achieve this objective, the installer may place multiple tile spacers between adjacent tiles to form a mechanical barrier that prevents adjacent tiles from contacting one another.

[0008] There are many different known tile spacers.

[0009] The applicant has invented a tile spacer system for spacing and levelling tiles. The tile spacer system is described in International publications WO 2014 / 022889 Al and WO 2019 / 071308 Al in the name of the applicant. The tile spacer system comprises a tile spacer and a tile spacer cap. The disclosures in WO 2014 / 022889 Al and WO 2019 / 071308 Al are incorporated herein by cross-reference. The tile spacers of the applicant’s tile spacer system have a base plate that is positioned beneath the tiles and a spacer stem that extends upwardly away from the base plate, between a pair of tiles. The tiles rest on top of the base plate during installation.

[0010] To ensure that the tiles are secured firmly in position, the installer places a tile spacer cap of the applicant’s tile spacer system on top of the tile to effectively clamp the tile in place.

[0011] Once the tiles are correctly placed on top of the tile spacer base plate and with the spacer stem extending upwards through the gap between adjacent tiles, the installer fits the tile spacer cap to the spacer stem. The tile spacer cap of the applicant’s tile spacer system has a generally hemispherical frame, with a slot positioned centrally within the frame which may receive the tile spacer stem therethrough.

[0012] The tile spacer cap also has a protrusion that extends horizontally into the slot, which is configured to engage with a plurality of horizontal ribs on the tile spacer stem. The engagement between the protrusion of the tile spacer cap and the rib(s) of the tile spacer stem ensures that the tile spacer cap remains in a set position with respect to the tile spacer stem.

[0013] Due to the engagement between the protrusion and the rib(s), the installer applies force to urge the cap downwards so that the frame sits on top of the tiles.

[0014] This is achieved using an applicator tool of the applicant’s tile spacer system, which slides on top of the tile spacer cap and, via actuation of a trigger mechanism, forces the tile spacer cap towards the tiles until the tiles are firmly clamped. An example of such an applicator tool is described in WO 2014 / 022889 Al.

[0015] To release the tile spacer cap after the tiles have been secured in place, the installer applies a lateral force to break the connection between the tile spacer base plate and the tile spacer stem, before removing the spacer stem from the tile spacer cap.

[0016] Alternatively, the installer uses a decapper tool to remove the tile spacer cap without breaking the tile spacer stem off from the base plate. Some known de-capper tools have an elongate shape with a central slot, which the tile spacer stem can pass through. Such de-capper tools also comprise a pair of gripping arms, which are configured to engage with the frame of the tile spacer cap to allow the cap to be pulled upwards and out of engagement with the tile spacer arm. However, this requires the installer to manually disengage the protrusion of the tile spacer cap from the rib(s) of the tile spacer stem prior to using the de-capper tool.

[0017] The invention provides an alternative tool to the tool described in WO 2014 / 022889 Al, which is capable of fastening a tile spacer cap to a spacer stem of a tile spacer and is also capable of ‘de-capping’ the tile spacer cap after installation of tiles.

[0018] Summary of the Invention

[0019] The invention provides a tool for use with a tile spacer system.

[0020] The tile spacer system comprises: a tile spacer comprising a base on which at least one tile can be positioned and a stem that projects upwardly from the base, wherein the stem may comprise a plurality of spacedapart engagement members such as ribs along at least a part of the length of the stem, and a tile spacer cap comprising a portion for contacting an upper surface of the at least one tile, an aperture for receiving the stem, and a stem engaging portion, whereby in use the tile spacer cap can be positioned such that the stem extends through the aperture of the tile spacer cap such that the stem engaging portion engages with the stem, for example engages with the engagement members such as ribs of the stem, and couples together the tile spacer cap and the tile spacer,

[0021] The tool comprises: a first engagement element configured to engage with the stem of the tile spacer; a second engagement element configured to engage with the tile spacer cap; and a handle, configured to be manipulated by a user; whereby, in use, with the at least one tile positioned on the base of the tile spacer and the tile spacer cap positioned on the tile with the stem extending through the opening in the tile spacer cap such that the tile spacer cap and the tile spacer are coupled together, the tool can be positioned such that the first engagement element engages the stem and the second engagement element engages the tile spacer cap, and the handle can be moved relative to the base to cause the tile spacer cap to move towards the base.

[0022] In a situation where the stem comprises a plurality of spaced-apart engagement members, such as ribs along at least a part of the length of the stem, the handle can be moved relative to the base to cause the tile spacer cap to move towards the base with the stem engaging portion of the tile spacer cap moving, for example by ratcheting, over successive engagement members of the stem of the tile spacer.

[0023] In some embodiments, the handle, the first engagement element and the second engagement element are spaced axially away from one another.

[0024] In some embodiments, the first engagement element is between the handle and the second engagement member.

[0025] In some embodiments, the first engagement element comprises a pair of protrusions that are configured to engage a pair of engagement members, such as ribs, of the plurality of engagement members, such as ribs, of the stem.

[0026] In some embodiments, the second engagement element comprises a ridge extending downwardly from a lower surface of the tool and wherein the ridge is configured to engage the tile spacer cap.

[0027] In some embodiments, the second engagement element is between the handle and the first engagement element.

[0028] In some embodiments, the first engagement element comprises a pair of teeth at one end of the tool, wherein the teeth are configured to engage with tabs positioned at the edges of the stem.

[0029] In some embodiments, the second engagement element comprises a ridge extending downwardly from a lower surface of the tool, and wherein the ridge is configured to engage the tile spacer cap. In some embodiments, the tool further comprises a de-capping system.

[0030] The de-capping system may comprise: a pair of de-capping tabs, extending downwardly from a lower surface of the tool and configured to disengage the stem engaging portion of the tile spacer cap from the stem, for example from the engagement members, such as ribs, of the stem; and a de-capping element, extending downwardly from a lower surface of the tool and configured to engage with the tile spacer cap.

[0031] The tool may be manufactured from any suitable material.

[0032] For example, the tool may be made from a suitable plastics material.

[0033] In some embodiments, the tool further comprises a second handle positioned at an opposite end of the tool to the handle, wherein the second engagement element is positioned between the handle and the second handle and whereby, in use, the handle and / or the second handle can be moved relative to the base to cause the second engagement element to move the tile spacer cap downwards with respect to the base, such that the stem engaging portion of the tile spacer cap can be moved to cause the tile spacer cap to move towards the base.

[0034] For example, the stem engaging portion of the tile spacer cap can be ratcheted over successive engagement members, such as ribs, of the stem of the tile spacer.

[0035] The invention also provides a method of using the above-described tool to fasten a tile spacer cap to a tile spacer of a tile spacer system, the method comprising: (a) positioning the abovedescribed tool such that the first engagement element engages with a portion of the stem of the tile spacer; (b) moving the tool via the handle, such that the second engagement element contacts the tile spacer cap and urges the tile spacer cap towards the base of the tile spacer; and (c) once the at least one tile is securely clamped between the tile spacer cap and the base of the tile spacer, removing the tool from engagement with the tile spacer cap and the stem.

[0036] The invention also provides a method of installing tiles using a tile spacer, a tile spacer cap and the above-described tool, the method comprising: (a) positioning the base of the tile spacer on a substrate; (b) laying at least one tile on the base; (c) positioning the tile spacer cap such that the stem extends through the aperture of the tile spacer cap and the tile spacer cap is positioned above the upper surface of the at least one tile; (d) positioning the tool such that the first engagement element engages with a portion of the stem of the tile spacer; and (e) moving the tool via the handle, such that the second engagement element contacts the tile spacer cap and urges the tile spacer cap towards the base of the tile spacer.

[0037] The invention also provides a method of using the above-described tool to unfasten a tile spacer cap from a tile spacer of a tile spacer system, the method comprising: (a) positioning the tool such that a portion of the tile spacer cap is received between the lower surface of the tool and the de-capping element; (b) positioning the tool such that the pair of de-capping tabs disengage the stem engaging portion of the tile spacer cap from the stem, such as from the engagement members, such as ribs, of the stem; and (c) moving the tool such that the decapping element urges the tile spacer cap away from the base of the tile spacer.

[0038] The invention also provides a tile spacing kit comprising: a tile spacer, comprising: a base on which at least one tile can be positioned; and a stem that projects upwardly from the base, wherein the stem comprises a plurality of engagement members, such as ribs; a tile spacer cap, comprising: a portion for contacting an upper surface of the at least one tile; and an aperture for receiving the stem of the tile spacer, the aperture comprising a stem engaging portion; and the above-described tool for assisting with fastening the tile spacer cap to the tile spacer.

[0039] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0040] By way of example only, specific embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0041] Figure l is a top perspective view of a first embodiment of a tool in accordance with the present invention.

[0042] Figure 2 is a bottom perspective view of the tool of Figure 1.

[0043] Figure 3 is a top view of the tool of Figure 1.

[0044] Figure 4 is a side view of the tool of Figure 1.

[0045] Figure 5 is a bottom view of the tool of Figure 1. Figure 6 is a top perspective view of a second embodiment of a tool in accordance with the present invention.

[0046] Figure 7 is a bottom perspective view of the tool of Figure 6.

[0047] Figure 8 is a top view of the tool of Figure 6.

[0048] Figure 9 is a side view of the tool of Figure 6.

[0049] Figure 10 is a bottom view of the tool of Figure 6.

[0050] Figure 11 is a perspective view of the tool of Figure 1, showing the tool in use with a tile spacer cap and tile spacer of one embodiment of a tile spacer system.

[0051] Figure 12a is a cross-sectional view of the tool of Figure 1, showing the tool in use with a tile spacer cap and tile spacer.

[0052] Figure 12b is an expanded partial cross-sectional view of the tool of Figure 1, showing the tool in use with a tile spacer cap and tile spacer.

[0053] Figure 13 is a side view of the tool of Figure 1, showing the tool in use with a tile spacer cap and tile spacer.

[0054] Figure 14 is another side view of the tool of Figure 1, showing the tool in use for fastening the tile spacer cap and tile spacer.

[0055] Figure 15 is a perspective view of the tool of Figure 6, showing the tool in use with a tile spacer cap and tile spacer.

[0056] Figure 16a is a cross-sectional view of the tool of Figure 6, showing the tool in use with a tile spacer cap and tile spacer.

[0057] Figure 16b is an expanded partial cross-sectional view of the tool of Figure 6, showing the tool in use with a tile spacer cap and tile spacer.

[0058] Figure 17 is a side view of the tool of Figure 6, showing the tool in use with a tile spacer cap and tile spacer.

[0059] Figure 18 is another side view of the tool of Figure 6, showing the tool in use for fastening the tile spacer cap and tile spacer.

[0060] Figure 19 is a perspective view of the tool of Figure 6, showing the tool in use for ‘decapping’ the tile spacer cap and the tile spacer.

[0061] Figure 20 is side view of the tool of Figure 6, showing the tool in use for ‘de-capping’ the tile spacer cap and the tile spacer.

[0062] Figure 21a is a cross-sectional view of the tool of Figure 6, showing the tool in use for ‘de-capping’ the tile spacer cap and the tile spacer.

[0063] Figure 21b is an expanded partial cross-sectional view of the tool of Figure 6, showing the tool in use for ‘de-capping’ the tile spacer cap and the tile spacer. Figure 22 is a perspective view of a third, but not the only other, embodiment of a tool in accordance with the present invention, showing the tool in use with a tile spacer cap and tile spacer.

[0064] Figure 23 is a side view of the tool of Figure 6, showing a first step of the de-capping process.

[0065] Figure 24 is a side view of the tool of Figure 6, showing a second step of the decapping process.

[0066] Figure 25 is a side view of the tool of Figure 6, showing a third step of the de-capping process.

[0067] Figure 26 is an expanded view of the tool of Figure 6, showing the tool engaged with the tile spacer cap and tile spacer, prior to fastening the tile spacer system.

[0068] Figure 27 is an expanded view of the tool of Figure 6, showing the tool engaged with the tile spacer cap and tile spacer, after fastening the tile spacer system.

[0069] Detailed Description of Selected Embodiments

[0070] In the following detailed description, reference is made to accompanying drawings which form a part of the detailed description. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, depicted in the drawings and defined in the claims, are not intended to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilised, and other changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein and illustrated in the drawings can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are contemplated in this disclosure.

[0071] The embodiments of the tool shown in the Figures are designed to be used with a tile spacer system for spacing and levelling tiles on a substrate, such as a floor or a wall, that comprises a tile spacer 10 and a tile spacer cap 40.

[0072] The tile spacer system is typically as described in the above-mentioned International publications WO 2014 / 022889 Al and WO 2019 / 071308 Al in the name of the applicant.

[0073] The Figures show one embodiment of a tile spacer system. The invention is not confined to this embodiment. The tile spacer 10 of the tile spacer system shown in the Figures comprises a base 20 and a stem 30 and is designed to be placed at an intersection of four adjacent tiles (not shown) positioned on a floor or a wall or any other surface to be tiled.

[0074] The system could also be used to space two or three adjacent tiles, for example at corners or ends.

[0075] The base 20 is designed so that a portion of a base will lie beneath each of the four tiles (when laid). The base 20 also includes a tile bottom surface engagement portion 22 on the upper surface of the base 20. In this embodiment, the base 20 is a thin plate with apertures 24 to allow adhesive to flow through and allows the tiles to be glued to the substrate (e.g., cement slab) that the tiles are laid on.

[0076] The stem 30 projects upwardly from the base 20 and comprises a tile alignment portion 32 (see Figure 12a) having two projections 32a, 32b extending outward from the stem 30, providing a cross-shaped profile. Each of the two projections is connected to one surface of the stem 30 within a recessed or set-back portion. In use, each of the four tiles abuts a corner of the tile alignment portion 32 so as to space the four tiles at a predetermined distance with respect to each other.

[0077] The stem 30 comprises a plurality of engagement members in the form of horizontally extending ribs 34 on both faces. The ribs 34 are spaced apart vertically on at least a portion of the stem 30, the ribs 34 thereby defining a series of ridges and troughs on each face of the stem 30.

[0078] The tile spacer cap 40 of the tile spacer system comprises a tile top surface engagement portion 42 in the form of a flat annular surface. The tile top surface engagement portion 42 is connected via four struts 44 to a central portion 46. The use of struts provides a plurality of viewing apertures 45 so that the installer has a clear and largely unobstructed view of the tiles and spacer, which allows them to visually check that the tiles remain engaged with the tile alignment portion 32 and the tile spacer cap 40 during installation. The central portion 46 comprises an aperture 48 for receiving the stem 30 of the tile spacer 10, such that the stem 30 extends through the aperture 48. The aperture 48 comprises a stem engaging portion 50, comprising a pair of vertical tabs 52, each with an inwardly directed tooth 54 for engaging with at least one rib 34 of the stem 30. The vertical tabs 52 are formed from a resiliently deformable material and are thus movable about a hinge 56. In some embodiments, the ribs 34 are in the form of downwardly directed teeth having a triangular profile, whereas the teeth 54 are in the form of upwardly directed teeth. As the tile spacer cap 40 is pushed downward with respect to the stem 30, the vertical tabs 52 may move outwardly as the teeth 54 pass over corresponding ribs 34, before springing back into engagement with the next set of ribs 34. The tile spacer cap 40 may be pushed downward along the stem 30 towards the base 20 until it engages with the top surfaces of the tiles.

[0079] In some embodiments, the stem 30 comprises a plurality of tabs 36 (see Figures 15, 17, 18, 20) on its outer edges, with the tabs 36 spaced apart vertically along a portion of the stem 30.

[0080] In use, the tile spacer 10 is positioned by an installer with the base 20 lying flat on a substrate, such as a floor or a wall.

[0081] The installer then positions up to four tiles on the tile bottom surface engagement portion 22 using a suitable adhesive, with the stem 30 extending between adjacent tiles. The stem 30 extends upwards in a situation where the substrate is a floor. The stem 30 extends outwards in a situation where the substrate is a wall.

[0082] The tile spacer cap 40 is then placed into engagement with the stem 30, such that the stem 30 passes through the aperture 48 as the tile spacer cap 40 is moved towards the base 20.

[0083] To allow the installer to securely clamp the tiles between the base 20 and the tile spacer cap 40 to level the tiles, the installer applies force to the tile spacer cap that moves the tile spacer cap 40 towards the base 20. When the tiles are securely clamped, the pressure applied by the tile spacer cap 40, due to the engagement of the teeth 54 of the tile spacer cap 40 with the ribs 34, causes levelling of the tiles against the substrate.

[0084] To facilitate a secure clamping, the installer uses a tool of the invention to assist with the fastening. One embodiment of a tool for assisting with the fastening of the tile spacer system is shown in Figures 1-5 and 11 to 14.

[0085] The tool 100 comprises a handle 102, a first engagement element 104 that is configured to engage with the tile spacer stem 30, and a second engagement element 106 that is configured to engage with the tile spacer cap 40. The first engagement element 104 and the second engagement element 106 are spaced axially from the handle and from each other. In this embodiment, the first engagement element 104 is positioned between the handle 102 and the second engagement element 106.

[0086] The first engagement element 104 comprises a pair of upwardly extending protrusions 108 positioned in a slot 110 in the tool. The protrusions 108 have an L-shaped profile, with a vertically extending portion and a horizontally extending lip 112, wherein the lip is configured to engage with the ribs 34 of the stem 30. The protrusion 108 and / or the lip 112 is flexible and resiliently deformable with respect to the tool 100, allowing the lip 112 to remain engaged between two ribs 34 as the tool 100 is moved or pivoted with respect to the base 20.

[0087] The second engagement element 106 comprises a ridge that extends downwardly from a lower surface of the tool 100.

[0088] In use, the tool 100 is positioned such that the stem 30 extends through the slot 110 and the protrusions 108 engage with ribs 34 and the ridge contacts the upper surface of the tile spacer cap 40. The handle 102 is then moved upwardly relative to the base 20, with the lip 112 of each protrusion 108 remaining engaged between two ribs 34 of the stem 30, which causes the ridge to urge the tile spacer cap 40 downwards. The teeth 54 of the tile spacer cap 40 are thus urged over successive ribs 34 of the stem 30, as the cap 40 is ratcheted downwards, thereby providing a secure clamping of the tiles between the tile spacer cap 40 and the base 20.

[0089] As shown in Figures 1 to 5 and 11 to 14, the tool 100 also comprises a de-capping element 114. The de-capping element 114 is configured to engage with the central portion 46 of the tile spacer cap 40 to facilitate disengagement and removal of the tile spacer cap 40 from the stem 30. The de-capping element 114 extends from lower surface of the tool 100 and has an L-shaped profile, thereby defining a recess in which the central portion 46 of the tile spacer cap 40 can be received during de-capping.

[0090] The de-capping element 114 is spaced axially from the handle 102 and is positioned between the handle 102 and the first engagement element 104.

[0091] The tool 100 also comprises a pair of de-capping tabs 116 that extend downwardly from the lower surface of the tool 100. The de-capping tabs 116 are positioned between the first engagement element 104 and the de-capping element 114.

[0092] In use, the tool 100 shown in Figures 1 to 5 and 11 to 14 is positioned such that the stem 30 extends through the slot 110 and the de-capping element 114 is brought into engagement with the central portion 46 of the tile spacer cap 40, such that the central portion 46 is partially received within the recess defined by the de-capping element 114 and the lower surface of the tool 100. The handle 102 is then moved so that the de-capping tabs 116 are urged between ribs 34 of the stem 30 and the teeth 54 of the tile spacer cap 40, removing the teeth 54 from locking engagement with the ribs 34. The tool 100 can then be lifted away from the base 20, allowing the tile spacer cap 40 to be removed from the stem 30, due to the engagement between the de-capping element 114 and the central portion 46 of the tile spacer cap 40. This allows the tile spacer cap 40 to be removed from the tile spacer 10 without damage, permitting subsequent uses of the cap.

[0093] It is alternatively envisaged that the tool 100 could be provided without a de-capping element and / or de-capping tabs, such that the tool 100 functions as a fastener only.

[0094] Another embodiment of a tool for assisting with the fastening of the tile spacer system is shown in Figures 6-10, 15 to 21b, and 23-27.

[0095] The tool 200 comprises a handle 202, a first engagement element 204 that is configured to engage with the tile spacer stem 30, and a second engagement element 206 that is configured to engage with the tile spacer cap 40. The first engagement element 204 and the second engagement element 206 are spaced axially from the handle and from each other. In this embodiment, the second engagement element 206 is positioned between the handle 202 and the first engagement element 204.

[0096] The first engagement element 204 comprises a pair of teeth 208 at one end of the tool 200. Each tooth 208 is positioned at one side of the tool 200. In use, the teeth 208 are configured to engage with tabs 36 of the tile spacer stem 30.

[0097] The second engagement element 206 comprises a ridge that extends downwardly from a lower surface of the tool 200. In this embodiment, the ridge has a curved shape, although it is envisaged that other shapes could be used to perform the required function.

[0098] In use, the tool 200 shown in Figures 6-10, 15 to 21b, and 23-27 is positioned such that the teeth 208 engage with corresponding tabs 36 at the edges of the stem 30, and a part of the ridge contacts the upper surface of the tile spacer cap 40. The handle 202 is then moved downwardly relative to the base 20, which causes the ridge to urge the tile spacer cap 40 downwards. This movement of the tool is shown clearly in Figures 26 and 27, which show the tool 200 in a first position (before fastening) and a second position (after fastening). The teeth 54 of the tile spacer cap are thus urged over successive ribs 34 of the stem 30 as the cap is ratcheted downwards, thereby providing a secure clamping of the tiles between the tile spacer cap 40 and the base 20.

[0099] The tool 200 also comprises a de-capping element 214. The de-capping element 214 is configured to engage with the central portion 46 of the tile spacer cap 40 to facilitate disengagement and removal of the tile spacer cap 40 from the stem 30. The de-capping element 214 extends from a lower surface of the tool 200 and has an L-shaped profile, thereby defining a recess in which the central portion 46 of the tile spacer cap 40 can be received during the de-capping process. The de-capping element 214 is spaced axially from the handle 202 and is positioned between the handle 202 and the second engagement element 206.

[0100] The tool 200 also comprises a pair of de-capping tabs 216 that extend downwardly from the lower surface of the tool 200. The de-capping tabs 216 are positioned between the second engagement element 206 and the de-capping element 214. In use, the tool 200 shown in Figures 6-10, 15 to 21b, and 23-27 is positioned such that the stem 30 extends through the slot 210 and the de-capping element 214 is brought into engagement with the central portion 46 of the tile spacer cap 40, such that the central portion 46 is partially received within the recess defined by the de-capping element 214 and the lower surface of the tool 200, as shown in Figure 23. The handle 202 is then moved so that the de-capping tabs 216 are urged between ribs 34 of the stem 30 and the teeth 54 of the tile spacer cap 40, removing the teeth 54 from locking engagement with the ribs 34, as shown in Figure 24. The tool 200 can then be lifted away from the base 20, allowing the tile spacer cap 40 to be removed from the stem 30, due to the engagement between the de-capping element 214 and the central portion 46 of the tile spacer cap 40, as shown in Figure 25. This allows the tile spacer cap 40 to be removed from the tile spacer 10 without damage, permitting subsequent uses of the cap.

[0101] It is alternatively envisaged that the tool 200 could be provided without a de-capping element and / or de-capping tabs, such that the tool 200 functions as a fastener only.

[0102] Another embodiment of the tool for assisting with the fastening of the tile spacer system is shown in Figure 22.

[0103] The tool 300 operates in a similar manner to the embodiment of Figures 1 to 6 and 11 to 14, to permit fastening of the tile spacer cap to the tile spacer stem.

[0104] The tool 300 comprises a first handle 302, a first engagement element 304 and a second engagement element 306. The first engagement element 302 comprises a pair of protrusions 308 positioned in a slot 310. The protrusions 308 extend horizontally into the slot 310 and are configured to engage with the ribs 34 of the stem 30. As is the case for the tool shown in Figures 1 to 5, the protrusion 308 is flexible and resiliently deformable with respect to the tool, allowing the protrusion 308 to remain engaged between a pair of ribs 34 as the tool 300 is moved relative to the base 20.

[0105] The second engagement element 306 comprises an integrally formed arcuate ridge extending downwardly from a lower surface of the tool 300. The tool 300 also comprises a second handle 312, at an opposite end to the first handle 302. By providing a second handle, the user may manipulate either handle to cause engagement of a portion of the arcuate ridge with the tile spacer cap. The tool 300 may therefore be manipulated with a rocking, or “see-saw”, motion to facilitate fastening of the tile spacer cap and the stem.

[0106] In use, the tool 300 is positioned such that the stem 30 extends through the slot 310 and the protrusions 308 engage with ribs 34 and the arcuate ridge contacts the upper surface of the tile spacer cap. The first handle 302 and / or the second handle 312 may then be moved relative to the base 20, with the protrusions 308 remaining engaged between two ribs 34 of the stem 30, with the movement causing a portion of the arcuate ridge to urge the tile spacer cap 40 downwards. The teeth 54 of the tile spacer cap 40 are thus urged over successive ribs 34 of the stem 30, as the cap 40 is ratcheted downwards, thereby providing a secure clamping of the tiles between the tile spacer cap 40 and the base 20.

[0107] Each of the tools described above in relation to the Figures are formed from a flexible, resiliently deformable plastics material. However, it is also envisaged that the tools could be formed from a rigid material.

[0108] Many modifications may be made to the embodiments of the tool described in relation to the Figures without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0109] By way of example, whilst the embodiments of the tool are described as being suitable for use with the tile spacer system is described in International publications WO 2014 / 022889 Al and WO 2019 / 071308 Al in the name of the applicant, the invention is not so limited and extends to use with any suitable tile spacer system that comprises a tile spacer and a tile spacer cap that are designed to cooperate to clamp together the tile spacer and the tile spacer cap.

[0110] In the claims which follow and in the preceding description, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising” is used in an inclusive sense, i.e., to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention. It is to be understood that, if any prior art is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the prior art forms a part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country. One or more future patent applications may be filed on the basis of, or claiming priority from, the present application. It is to be understood that the following claims are provided by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of what may be claimed in any such future application based on the present disclosure. Features may be added to or omitted from the claims at a later date so as to further define or redefine the invention or inventions.

Claims

Claims1. A tool for assisting with fastening a tile spacer cap to a tile spacer of a tile spacer system, the tile spacer comprising a base on which at least one tile can be positioned and a stem that projects upwardly from the base, and the tile spacer cap comprising a portion for contacting an upper surface of the at least one tile, an aperture for receiving the stem, and a stem engaging portion, whereby in use the tile spacer cap can be positioned such that the stem extends through the aperture of the tile spacer cap such that the stem engaging portion engages the stem and couples together the tile spacer cap and the tile spacer, the tool comprising: a first engagement element to engage with the stem of the tile spacer; a second engagement element to engage with the tile spacer cap; and a handle to be manipulated by a user; whereby, in use, with the at least one tile positioned on the base of the tile spacer and the tile spacer cap positioned on the tile with the stem extending through the opening in the tile spacer cap such that the tile spacer cap and the tile spacer are coupled together, the tool can be positioned such that the first engagement element engages the stem and the second engagement element engages the tile spacer cap, and the handle can be moved relative to the base to cause the tile spacer cap to move towards the base, with the stem engaging portion of the tile spacer cap moving over the stem of the tile spacer.

2. A tool according to claim 1, wherein the stem comprises a plurality of spaced-apart engagement members along at least a part of the length of the stem, and wherein the handle can be moved relative to the base to cause the tile spacer cap to move towards the base with the stem engaging portion of the tile spacer cap moving over successive engagement members of the stem of the tile spacer.

3. A tool according to claim 3, wherein the engagement members are ribs.

4. A tool according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the handle, the first engagement element and the second engagement element are spaced axially away from one another.

5. A tool according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first engagement element is between the handle and the second engagement element.

6. A tool according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the first engagement element comprises a pair of protrusions that are configured to engage a pair of engagement members of the plurality of engagement members of the stem.

7. A tool according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the second engagement element comprises a ridge extending downwardly from a lower surface of the tool and wherein the ridge is configured to engage the tile spacer cap.

8. A tool according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the second engagement element is between the handle and the first engagement element.

9. A tool according to claim 8, wherein the first engagement element comprises a pair of teeth at one end of the tool, wherein the teeth are configured to engage with tabs positioned at the edges of the stem.

10. A tool according to claim 8 or claim 9, wherein the second engagement element comprises a ridge extending downwardly from a lower surface of the tool, and wherein the ridge is configured to engage the tile spacer cap.

11. A tool according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a pair of de-capping tabs, extending downwardly from a lower surface of the tool and configured to disengage the stem engaging portion of the tile spacer cap from the stem; and a de-capping element, extending downwardly from a lower surface of the tool and configured to engage with the tile spacer cap.

12. A tool according to claim 1, further comprising a second handle positioned at an opposite end of the tool to the handle, wherein the second engagement element is positioned between the handle and the second handle and whereby, in use, the handle and / or the second handle can be moved relative to the base to cause the second engagement element to move the tile spacer cap downwards with respect to the base.

13. A method of using a tool according to any one of the preceding claims to fasten a tile spacer cap to a tile spacer of a tile spacer system, the method comprising:(a) positioning the tool such that the first engagement element engages with a portion of the stem of the tile spacer;(b) moving the tool via the handle, such that the second engagement element contacts the tile spacer cap and urges the tile spacer cap towards the base of the tile spacer;(c) once the at least one tile is securely clamped between the tile spacer cap and the base of the tile spacer, removing the tool from engagement with the tile spacer cap and the stem.

14. A method of installing tiles using a tile spacer, a tile spacer cap and a tool according to claim 1, the method comprising:(a) positioning the base of the tile spacer on a substrate;(b) laying at least one tile on the base;(c) positioning the tile spacer cap such that the stem extends through the aperture of the tile spacer cap and the tile spacer cap is positioned above the upper surface of the at least one tile;(d) positioning the tool such that the first engagement element engages with a portion of the stem of the tile spacer;(e) moving the tool via the handle, such that the second engagement element contacts the tile spacer cap and urges the tile spacer cap towards the base of the tile spacer.

15. A method of using a tool according to claim 11 to unfasten a tile spacer cap from a tile spacer of a tile spacer system, the method comprising:(a) positioning the tool such that a portion of the tile spacer cap is received between the lower surface of the tool and the de-capping element;(b) positioning the tool such that the pair of de-capping tabs disengage the stem engaging portion of the tile spacer cap from the stem; and(c) moving the tool such that the de-capping element urges the tile spacer cap away from the base of the tile spacer.

16. A tile spacing kit comprising: a tile spacer, comprising: a base on which at least one tile can be positioned; anda stem that projects upwardly from the base; a tile spacer cap, comprising: a portion for contacting an upper surface of the at least one tile; and an aperture for receiving the stem of the tile spacer, the aperture comprising a stem engaging portion; a tool according to any one of the preceding claims for assisting with fastening the tile spacer cap to the tile spacer.

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