Stretchable Strap Tile Alignment System with Triangular Ridges
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tile aligning and lippage tuning systems require manual strength and skill to adjust the strap and cap combination, which can be challenging for professionals, leading to inefficiencies and potential strap breakage.
Innovation Solution
A one-piece base and strap system with a detachable stretchable strap and triangular cross-section ridges allows for easier stretching and separation, reducing the need for manual strength and minimizing strap breakage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a tool is used to tighten the strap and cap combination, then the alignment function is achieved, but the operation becomes complex and requires manual strength and skill
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the tightening function from a separate tool and integrates it into the strap itself through the triangular cross-section ridges. The ridges are designed to be manually pressed between tiles to tighten the strap, eliminating the need for external tightening tools and reducing operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The strap system is designed to be self-adjusting through its triangular ridge structure. The ridges automatically engage and tighten when pressed between tiles, allowing the system to perform its own tightening function without requiring external tools or complex mechanisms.
2Reliability
If manual strength is applied to tighten the strap, then the alignment is achieved, but strap breakage occurs and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flexible strap material that can deform and distribute applied forces evenly. The triangular cross-section ridges act as flexible elements that compress under manual pressure, allowing tight adjustment without concentrating stress at single points, thereby preventing strap breakage.
Solution Approach 2:
The strap system transitions from a rigid structure to a dynamic, deformable structure. The triangular ridges can compress and flex during tightening, adapting to the applied force and releasing stress gradually, which prevents sudden failures and improves reliability under manual loading conditions.
3Productivity
If a traditional strap and cap system is used, then tile alignment is achieved, but the process is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the strap and triangular ridge structure into a single integrated component. This eliminates the need for separate cap installation and tightening steps, allowing tile alignment to be achieved in a single pressing motion, thereby reducing the time required for each adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The triangular ridges are pre-formed and positioned on the strap during manufacturing. This preliminary preparation allows the strap to be immediately effective when installed between tiles, eliminating the need for additional setup or adjustment steps and reducing overall job completion time.
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 system decreases job time, improves ease of use, and reduces unwanted strap breakage, enhancing the efficiency and reliability of tile alignment and lippage adjustment.
Implementation Method 1
the strap portion (110) is stretchable
Data Source
AI summary
A tile aligning and lippage tuning system that uses a single piece base and strap which is designed to break away from the base when sufficient pressure is applied and is also designed to stretch along a thin wall region before separation of the strap from the base occurs.