Tool-Free Connecting System for Flush Floor Profiles
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for installing flat profiles in wet rooms, such as showers, face issues with adjacent profiles drifting apart due to thermal expansion differences, leading to undesirable gaps and water seepage, despite the use of connecting pieces and tile adhesives.
Innovation Solution
A tool-free connecting element system that secures flat profiles together along a connection axis, using form-fitting connections and variably positioned connecting elements to prevent drifting and allow for adjustable lengths, ensuring a precise fit without visible protrusion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If flat profiles are installed next to each other using tile adhesive and connecting pieces, then assembly is facilitated, but the profiles drift apart due to thermal expansion differences causing gaps
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element is divided into distinct functional parts: an insertion part that engages with recesses in the flat profiles, and a connection part that provides form-fitting connections. This segmentation allows the system to simultaneously enable easy insertion while preventing drift through the undercut geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting element acts as an intermediary component between adjacent flat profiles. It mediates the thermal expansion forces by providing a mechanical connection that accommodates movement while preventing gap formation, thus resolving the contradiction between assembly ease and gap prevention.
2Ease of operation
If connecting pieces are used to extend floor drain rails, then assembly is facilitated, but individual flat profile parts drift along the connection axis
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element is designed with pre-formed undercut geometries and engagement features that are prepared in advance during manufacturing. This preliminary action ensures that when assembly occurs, the form-fitting connections automatically prevent drift without requiring additional adjustment or stabilization steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting element utilizes parameter changes in its geometry, specifically the undercut dimensions and engagement features, to transition from a state that facilitates easy insertion to a state that provides rigid anti-drift protection. The dimensional parameters are optimized to balance assembly ease with position stability.
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
Facilitates easy assembly and prevents unwanted drifting of flat profiles, maintaining a watertight seal and aesthetic appeal by securing profiles against thermal expansion-induced movement.
Implementation Method 1
due to temperature fluctuations in wet cells in connection with the different thermal expansion coefficients of the flat profiles and the screed
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention relates to a connecting element system for flush-mounted flat profiles in wet rooms, wherein the connecting element system is configured to connect two flush-mounted flat profiles for wet rooms along a connecting axis without tools, characterized in that the connecting element system is configured to connect two flush-mounted flat profiles for wet rooms without tools in such a way that they are secured against drifting apart along the connecting axis when connected. An associated assembly system, a related method, and a use are also disclosed.