Ceramic Tile Abrasion Tester With Interchangeable Insert Motion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing systems for testing the abrasion resistance of glazed ceramic tiles do not accurately simulate the daily wear and tear experienced in residential and commercial environments, such as chair and table leg movements, dirt, and other common abrasions.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising a base unit and a head unit with a removably held insert piece, allowing for customizable movements along multiple axes, controlled displacement and frequency, and the use of abrasive materials to simulate real-world conditions, including the application of load and environmental factors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a standard abrasion tester with fixed insert piece is used, then the test can be performed according to industry standards, but the system cannot accurately simulate real-world abrasion conditions involving various objects like chair legs, table legs, and furniture

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of abrasion resistance measurementVSAvoidability to simulate different real-world abrasion conditions
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The insert piece is divided into a base portion and a removable insert portion, allowing different insert pieces to be exchanged based on testing requirements. This segmentation enables the system to adapt to various real-world abrasion scenarios while maintaining structural integrity and standardization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system transitions from a static, fixed insert piece to a dynamic, interchangeable insert piece system. The removable insert portion allows the testing configuration to be changed according to different testing needs, enabling accurate simulation of various real-world conditions such as different furniture leg materials and shapes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If the insert piece is permanently fixed in the head unit, then the system structure is simple, but the insert piece cannot be easily replaced for different testing conditions or cleaned/maintained

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of insert piece replacement and maintenanceVSAvoidcomplexity of the fastening mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The insert piece is segmented into a base portion that remains in the head unit and a removable insert portion that can be easily exchanged. This segmentation allows simple removal and replacement of the insert portion for different testing conditions or after cleaning/maintenance, without requiring complex mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The removable insert portion is designed as a consumable or easily replaceable component that can be discarded or replaced when worn or contaminated, eliminating the need for complex cleaning or maintenance procedures. This approach simplifies the overall system by making the insert portion a short-living component.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the base unit and head unit are fixed in position, then the system structure is simple, but the system cannot provide controlled linear movement to simulate real-world abrasion scenarios

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to simulate linear movement abrasionVSAvoidcomplexity of the motor control system
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system incorporates a numerically controlled motor that enables controlled linear movement between the base unit and head unit. This dynamic capability allows the system to simulate real-world abrasion scenarios involving linear motion, such as furniture being moved across the floor, while maintaining programmable control over movement parameters.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces manual or mechanical movement with a numerically controlled motor system. This substitution provides precise, programmable control over the linear movement parameters such as speed, distance, and frequency, enabling accurate simulation of real-world abrasion conditions without complex mechanical linkages.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

Provides a more accurate simulation of glazed ceramic tile abrasion resistance, enabling assessment of suitability for residential and commercial spaces and quality control in manufacturing.

Implementation Method 1

The test involves using an abrasion tester for exposing the surface of a glazed ceramic tile to the abrasive action of steel ball bearings

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

said head unit comprises an insert fastener and wherein said insert piece is removably held by said insert fastener

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Implementation Method 3

exposing the surface of a glazed ceramic tile to the abrasive action of steel ball bearings comprised within a unit, with the addition of corundum and distilled water

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAbrasion: Abrasion

Data Source

PatentEP4667901A1System for testing the abrasion resistance of a glazed ceramic tile
Publication Date: 2025.12.24 MARAZZI GRP SPA
  • EP4667901A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4667901A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4667901A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

System for testing the abrasion resistance of a glazed ceramic tile comprising : - a base unit for holding a glazed ceramic tile; - a head unit, adapted to hold an insert piece; wherein said system is configured to move at least one between said base unit and said head unit to make said insert piece contact said glazed ceramic tile, characterized in that said head unit comprises an insert fastener and wherein said insert piece is removably held by said insert fastener.