Cam Tool Tile Leveling Assembly
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tile leveling and alignment devices are inefficient, require multiple tools for different tile sizes, and often necessitate the use of tightening tools, increasing installation time and cost, especially when dealing with uneven substrates and shifting tiles.
Innovation Solution
A tile alignment assembly featuring a cam tool with a handle and cam members that rotate relative to a base member, allowing for adjustable compression of tiles to maintain level alignment without the need for a tightening tool, using a base member with an intermediate member and engagement surfaces that change distance from the axis of rotation to ensure proper leveling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed grid frame is used to space tiles, then tile spacing is maintained, but multiple frames are required for different tile sizes and the device is limited to one tile type at a time
Solution Approach 1:
The frame transitions from a fixed structure to a dynamically adjustable structure. The legs can be repositioned along the frame body at different locations, allowing the same frame to accommodate various tile sizes and spacing requirements. This dynamic adjustability eliminates the need for multiple fixed frames for different tile types.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame is designed as a universal device that can handle multiple tile sizes and configurations. By incorporating adjustable legs that can be positioned at various locations along the frame body, a single frame performs the function of multiple fixed frames, making it versatile for different tile installation scenarios.
2Manufacturing precision
If a tightening tool is used to secure the cap against the tile, then the tile is leveled, but the installation time increases due to threading the tool onto the shaft
Solution Approach 1:
The cap is designed with an integrated tightening mechanism that allows it to secure itself against the tile without requiring an external tightening tool. The cam member, when actuated, provides the necessary mechanical advantage to tighten the cap securely, eliminating the need for separate tooling and speeding up the installation process while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The tightening function is merged into the cap assembly itself through the integrated cam mechanism. Instead of being a separate operation requiring a dedicated tool, the tightening action is combined with the cap installation process, allowing the installer to secure the tile level in one continuous motion without tool changes or threading operations.
3Ease of operation
If markings are used on the substrate surface for alignment, then tile alignment is aided, but the mortar must be carefully applied to keep marks visible and installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The frame serves as an intermediary alignment tool that eliminates the need for substrate markings. By providing physical reference edges and spacing mechanisms, the frame directly guides tile placement without requiring visual markers on the mortar or substrate, simplifying the application process and maintaining installation speed.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The assembly efficiently aligns and levels tiles across various substrate conditions, reducing installation time and cost by allowing for quick adjustment and reuse, while ensuring tiles remain level as the mortar cures, without the need for multiple tools or threading.
Implementation Method 1
a cam tool having a handle combined with a first cam member and a second cam member, wherein each cam member has a tile engaging surface around its outer periphery... Rotation of the cam tool around the axis of rotation causes the distance between the tile engaging surface and the bottom plate to change
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A method and assembly for laying and leveling adjacent tiles. The assembly includes a base member having a bottom plate and a cam tool. The cam tool is pivotally combined with the base member so that the cam tool rotates relative to the base member about an axis of rotation. The cam tool has a handle combined with a cam member. The cam member has a tile engaging surface around its outer periphery with a first portion that is a first distance from the axis of rotation and a second portion that is a second distance from the axis of rotation. Rotation of the cam tool around the axis of rotation causes the distance between the tile engaging surface and the bottom plate to change. One or more tiles is adapted to be placed between the tile engaging surface of the cam member and the bottom plate of the base member. The tiles are compressed between the tile engaging surface and the bottom plate as the cam tool is rotated to a desired position.