Ceramic Tile Protector Structure for Scratch-Free Leveling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spacer-leveller devices for ceramic pieces risk scratching or damaging the tiles due to direct contact with tightening elements, and reusable tightening elements deteriorate quickly from friction, reducing their lifespan and number of uses.
Innovation Solution
A protective device with a disk-like structure featuring grooves and projections that allows for manual handling and reduces friction, compatible with both threaded and wedge-actuated spacer-leveller devices, preventing direct contact and extending the life of tightening elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a protective device is used to prevent scratching of ceramic pieces, then the ceramic pieces are protected from damage, but the protective device may rotate together with the tightening element when high pressure is exerted, risking damage to the ceramic pieces
Solution Approach 1:
The protective device incorporates asymmetric projections on its perimeter that engage with corresponding asymmetric recesses in the ceramic piece. This asymmetric geometry prevents rotational movement while maintaining protective contact, as the projections can insert into recesses but cannot rotate due to the non-circular engagement geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective device serves as an intermediary element between the tightening element and the ceramic piece. It transfers the tightening force while preventing direct contact between the tightening element and ceramic surface, and simultaneously uses its geometric features to prevent unwanted rotation during the tightening process.
2Shape
If a tightening element is displaced longitudinally over the surface of tiles to exert pressure for leveling, then the ceramic pieces are leveled, but the tightening element causes scratching or deterioration of the ceramic surface
Solution Approach 1:
The protective device acts as a mediator between the tightening element and the ceramic piece surface. During the longitudinal displacement of the tightening element for leveling, the protective device intercepts the contact, allowing the tightening force to be applied through the protective device rather than directly to the ceramic surface, thus preventing scratching while maintaining the leveling function.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective device is designed as a disposable or easily replaceable component that protects the more valuable and reusable tightening element. By sacrificing the protective device (which can be inexpensive and easily replaced), the system extends the life of the tightening element and prevents damage to the ceramic pieces.
3Productivity
If tightening elements are reused after friction against ceramic pieces or protectors, then resource efficiency is improved, but the tightening elements deteriorate quickly reducing their useful life and number of reuses
Solution Approach 1:
The protective device serves as a sacrificial intermediary that absorbs the friction and wear during tightening operations. By placing the protective device between the tightening element and the ceramic piece, the tightening element experiences significantly reduced friction and wear, allowing it to be reused many more times while maintaining its functional integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective device is designed to be a low-cost, easily replaceable component that protects the more valuable tightening element. The protective device absorbs the wear and deterioration that would otherwise occur on the tightening element, enabling the tightening element to maintain its useful life and be reused numerous times.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a protective device for ceramic pieces, said device suitable for resting on the upper surface of at least two ceramic pieces (40, 41) and which forms a bearing surface for a tightening element (204, 305) of a spacer-leveller device (20, 30) for ceramic pieces. The protective device comprises: a lower bearing surface (101) on the ceramic pieces (40, 41) to be installed; an upper surface (102) comprising a first circular track (106) for possible bearing of a first threaded tightening element (204) of a first spacer-leveller device (20); a second diametrical track (109), forming a possible bearing surface, with the possibility of longitudinal displacement, for a second tightening element (305), by way of a wedge, of a second spacer-leveller device (30); and a lateral surface (103) with projections (104) for manually holding the protective device (10).