Metallic Tensioning Member for Tile Leveling System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for leveling tiles are labor-intensive, time-consuming, and often result in errors due to tile shifting and settling during mortar drying, requiring frequent adjustments and increasing installation costs.
Innovation Solution
A tile leveling system featuring a metallic tensioning member connected to an anchor member via a breakage point, allowing for precise leveling and alignment without rotating tools on the tile surface, and enabling reusability without proprietary tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional tensioning members made of softer materials (ceramic, porcelain, stone) are used, then they are easier to manufacture and install, but they deform between tiles causing irregular breaks and unclean fractures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter of the tensioning member from softer materials (ceramic, porcelain, stone) to metallic material with higher hardness. This parameter change ensures the tensioning member maintains its shape and does not deform between tiles, preventing irregular breaks and ensuring clean fractures at the breakage point.
2Ease of operation
If rotation of parts on the top surface of tiles is used for leveling, then adjustment is easier, but debris including sand may scratch the tile surface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional approach by having the anchor member rotate beneath the tiles rather than rotating parts on the top surface. The anchor member rotates in the setting bed below the tiles, applying leveling force through the tensioning member without any rotation occurring on the vulnerable tile surface, thus preventing debris from scratching the tiles.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional leveling devices require proprietary tools for removal, then they provide specialized functionality, but they increase cost and reduce reusability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the loading system universal by designing it to work with standard tools (wrenches, sockets) rather than proprietary tools. The anchor member can be removed from cured tiles using common automotive or household tools, making the system versatile and reusable across different applications without requiring specialized equipment, thereby reducing costs.
4Manufacturing precision
If tiles are monitored continuously as mortar dries, then leveling quality is maintained, but installation time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by using the tensioning member to pre-establish and maintain proper tile alignment and levelness before the mortar fully cures. The tensioning member compensates for any settling or shifting that occurs during the curing process, eliminating the need for continuous monitoring and adjustments after initial placement, thus maintaining quality while accelerating installation.
Data Source
AI summary
A tile leveling system includes an anchor member arranged to be positioned in a setting bed below adjacent tiles. A tensioning member extends upwardly from the anchor member and is arranged to pass between the adjacent tiles. The tensioning member is made of a metallic material and frangibly connected to the anchor member via a breakage point. A loading system is arranged to be positioned on top of the adjacent tiles and includes a drive mechanism. The drive mechanism is connected to the tensioning member and is selectively operable to secure and level the adjacent tiles between the anchor member and the loading system.