Tile Leveling Clip With Wedge Windows for Multi-Tile Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tile installation methods lack efficient devices for leveling, aligning, and spacing tiles, leading to potential spacing errors, aesthetic issues, and safety concerns.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical-based tile leveling device and wedge system with parallel strip members, breakaway sections, and wedge devices that provide multiple points of contact and leverage for aligning and leveling tiles, accommodating varying thicknesses, and allowing for efficient installation of two to four tiles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional manual tile installation methods are used, then installers can place tiles on the substrate, but alignment and leveling are time-consuming and prone to errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary tool (leveling device with wedge mechanism) that mediates between the tile installer and the tiles. The device includes a body with wedge members that insert between tiles to mechanically enforce proper spacing and alignment, eliminating the need for manual measurement and adjustment while ensuring precise positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The leveling device enables tiles to self-align and self-level through the mechanical action of the wedge members. When the wedge is inserted and tightened, it automatically adjusts the tile positions relative to each other, allowing the system to correct alignment issues without requiring continuous manual intervention from the installer.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple tools are used for tile installation, then various functions can be performed, but the number of tools and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal leveling device that performs multiple functions: it levels tiles vertically, aligns them horizontally, maintains consistent spacing between tiles, and works with tiles of varying thicknesses. The adjustable wedge members and body structure allow the same device to handle different tile configurations (2 tiles, 3 tiles, or 4 tiles) without requiring separate tools for each function.
3Adaptability or versatility
If tiles of varying thicknesses are installed, then design flexibility is achieved, but maintaining level surfaces becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The leveling device incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities through its wedge members and body structure. The wedge members can be inserted to different depths and adjusted to accommodate varying tile thicknesses. The device adapts its geometry to match the specific thickness variations in the tile set being installed, maintaining mechanical contact and leverage to ensure level surfaces regardless of the underlying thickness differences.
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 device enables precise leveling and alignment of tiles, reduces installation time, minimizes the number of tools required, and ensures consistent spacing, thereby preventing propagation of installation errors and enhancing safety.
Implementation Method 1
a tapered surface configured to penetrate the lateral open windows and exerting force against tiles, thereby pressing the tiles against the first and second strip members in order to level and align
Data Source
AI summary
A device for leveling and aligning tiles and method for leveling and aligning tiles are disclosed. In one embodiment, the leveling device includes a body and two spaced and parallel strip members extending transversely from the body. Each of the spaced and parallel strip members extend to the front and rear of the body. Two opposing lateral open windows are formed in the body. A breakaway section is defined along the body. A wedge device is provided for penetrating one or more of the two opposing lateral open windows and exerting a force on the tiles for leveling them relative to each other.