Horizontal Alignment Tool for Wall Cladding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tools for aligning wall cladding elements and windows are cumbersome, require specialized skills, and lack stability and ease of use, leading to difficulties in achieving precise horizontal alignment, especially with heavy or large-format materials.
Innovation Solution
A tool with a support element and adjustment devices that allows for easy setup and leveling, ensuring no contact with the screed for sound insulation, and can be used by inexperienced users due to its simple and robust design, featuring a support device with a narrow extension and screw adjustments for precise alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional wedge support methods are used for heavy wall cladding elements, then the elements can be supported during installation, but the procedure becomes tedious, time-consuming and requires special skill to achieve exact horizontal alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The support device is divided into separate modular components: a base element, support elements with adjustable height, and leveling devices. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while enabling easy assembly and adjustment for horizontal alignment of wall cladding elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The support device incorporates adjustable height mechanisms and leveling devices that allow dynamic adaptation to different wall cladding element sizes and installation requirements. The support elements can be adjusted in height to achieve precise horizontal alignment, making the device versatile and easy to operate.
2Manufacturing precision
If complex alignment devices with multiple parts are used, then alignment precision can be improved, but the device becomes cumbersome and can only be used by specialists
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines multiple functions into a single integrated support device: support, adjustment, and leveling functions are merged into one compact unit. This reduces the number of separate parts and tools needed, making the device less cumbersome while maintaining alignment precision through its integrated adjustment and leveling mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The support device incorporates self-leveling capabilities through built-in leveling devices that allow users to easily adjust and verify horizontal alignment without requiring specialized knowledge or additional tools. The device guides the user through the alignment process, making it accessible to non-specialists.
3Ease of operation
If traditional support devices are used, then support function is provided, but the devices lack stability and rigidity, causing wobbling and requiring thorough cleaning before reuse
Solution Approach 1:
The support device features a smooth, rounded support surface that contacts the wall cladding elements. This curved design prevents dirt and adhesive residue from accumulating in sharp corners or crevices, making the device easy to clean. The smooth surface allows for quick wiping and maintains stability by providing consistent contact points.
4Strength
If adhesive is used for heavy tiles, then tiles can be attached to the wall, but the tiles may slip immediately after installation due to their weight
Solution Approach 1:
The support device provides preliminary mechanical support to wall cladding elements before the adhesive fully cures. By positioning and holding the elements in the correct position during the initial setting phase, the device prevents slipping and ensures proper alignment, allowing the adhesive to set without the burden of supporting the full weight immediately.
Data Source
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AI summary
A tool (1) for the horizontal alignment of objects, in particular wall cladding elements and/or windows and/or furniture, is proposed, comprising at least one support element (3) with a support device (5) designed for supporting the object and adjustment devices (4) for the horizontal alignment of the support device (5) in at least one first axis.