Tile Assembly Joining Element for Damage-Free Repair
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tile systems are difficult to modify or repair without causing substantial damage, as the connection between tile assemblies is made with male and female elements that are alternately used, making it hard to replace individual tiles without damaging multiple assemblies.
Innovation Solution
The system uses support members with openings and projections perpendicular to the tile surface, combined with a strip-like joining element that fits into these features, allowing for removable connections between tile assemblies, enabling vertical lifting and replacement without damaging the underfloor or joining elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If male and female connecting elements are alternately used on each tile assembly, then tile assemblies can be interconnected to form a complete floor, but it becomes extremely difficult to remove a single tile assembly without damaging the tile in a non-reparable way
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting system is segmented into a separate joining element that is distinct from the tile assemblies. This joining element acts as an intermediary component that connects multiple tile assemblies together, allowing individual tiles to be removed without affecting the integrity of adjacent tiles. The segmentation enables independent removal and replacement of single tile assemblies while maintaining the overall floor structure.
Solution Approach 2:
A separate joining element is introduced as an intermediary component between tile assemblies. This joining element with upwardly extending joint parts serves as a mediator that provides the connecting function without being integrated into the tile assemblies themselves. The intermediary joining element allows for easy removal and replacement of individual tiles by simply releasing the connection at the joining element level, without damaging adjacent tiles.
2Stability of the object's composition
If conventional grouting is used to fill gaps between adjacent tile members, then the floor structure is completed, but the process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The joining element with upwardly extending joint parts is designed in advance to perform the gap-filling function that would otherwise require grouting. The joint parts are pre-configured to fit into the gaps between adjacent tile members, eliminating the need for subsequent grouting operations. This preliminary action of providing structural gap-filling elements reduces the time and labor required for floor completion.
3Strength
If tile assemblies are permanently connected to form a complete floor, then structural integrity is maintained, but the floor becomes difficult to modify or repair
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is designed to be dynamic rather than static. The joining elements provide a reversible connection mechanism that allows the floor to transition between a stable assembled state and a modified state. Tile assemblies can be easily removed and reconnected, providing adaptability for modifications, repairs, or reconfiguration while maintaining structural integrity when assembled. This dynamic connection system enables the floor to adapt to changing requirements without compromising its strength.
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
This design allows for quick and damage-free removal and replacement of tile assemblies, reducing labor requirements and enabling the reuse of tile assemblies and joining elements, making the system suitable for flexible spaces like fairs and exhibition grounds.
Implementation Method 1
releasing the connection (e.g. by friction) between the projections and/or openings of the tile assembly and the openings and/or projections of the joining elements
Data Source
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AI summary
A system for setting tiles uses a number of tile assemblies and joining elements (21a) interconnecting adjacent tile assemblies. Each tile assembly- has a tile member (3a) and a support member. The support member is connected to the underside of the tile member, and is provided with recesses for accommodating parts of the joining elements. The support member has a number of openings and/or projections (12a) extending in a direction perpendicular to a main surface of the tile member. The joining element has an elongate strip-like member provided with openings (30a) and/or projections fitting into corresponding projections and/or openings of the support members of two adjacent tile assemblies.