Tile Cutter Displaceable Break Support Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tile cutters lack an efficient mechanism to transition the crushing support from a non-functional to a functional position, which hinders the effective application of a breaking force along a pre-made notch in the tile, leading to suboptimal cutting performance.
Innovation Solution
A tile cutter design where the crushing support is displaced transversely between two parallel support levels connected by an inclined surface, allowing it to move vertically from a non-functional to a functional position, with a return spring and retaining pin mechanism, enabling the crushing rib to raise the tile and apply a breaking force effectively along the notch.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the breaking support is moved vertically using an eccentric disc mechanism, then the breaking support can be brought from concealed to operational position, but the mechanism becomes complex and difficult to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The breaking support mechanism is segmented into modular components: a breaking support body, a separate eccentric disc with handle, and an integrated slider. This segmentation allows the complex function of vertical displacement to be achieved through a simple rotational motion of the handle, reducing operational complexity while maintaining functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of moving the breaking support vertically through complex mechanical linkages, the invention inverts the approach by using a horizontal slider that moves linearly. The eccentric disc converts this horizontal motion into vertical displacement of the breaking support, simplifying the overall mechanism and improving ease of operation.
2Reliability
If the breaking support is fixed in position, then the structure is simple, but the tile cannot be effectively lifted and broken along the notch
Solution Approach 1:
The breaking support is designed to be dynamically adjustable rather than fixed. The slider mechanism allows the breaking support to move horizontally and vertically, enabling it to adapt to different tile positions and breaking requirements. This dynamic capability ensures reliable breaking force application while using a relatively simple mechanical structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The eccentric disc acts as an intermediary mechanism between the simple horizontal slider motion and the required vertical breaking support displacement. This intermediary converts linear motion into rotational motion, achieving reliable tile lifting and breaking without complex direct vertical actuation mechanisms.
3Manufacturing precision
If a single support level is used for the breaking support, then the structure is simple, but the tile cannot be consistently positioned for effective breaking
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transitions from a single support level to a two-level support system. The first support level provides initial support, while the second support level (higher position) enables consistent tile positioning for breaking. This dimensional change in the support structure achieves precise cutting without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The two support levels are pre-configured to provide sequential support during the breaking process. The first level initially supports the tile, and as the slider moves, the tile transitions to the second level which is optimally positioned for breaking. This preliminary arrangement of support levels ensures consistent positioning and precise cutting without real-time adjustments.
4Reliability
If the breaking support moves in the direction of the support surface, then it can apply breaking force, but it cannot be easily returned to non-functional position
Solution Approach 1:
The return spring acts as a counterweight mechanism that automatically returns the breaking support to its non-functional position after breaking. The spring stores energy during the breaking stroke and releases it to retract the support, eliminating the need for manual retraction and improving ease of operation while maintaining reliable breaking force application.
Solution Approach 2:
The breaking mechanism operates in periodic cycles: the handle is rotated to advance the breaking support for force application, then the return spring automatically retracts it. This periodic action alternates between functional and non-functional positions, enabling continuous operation with simple manual input while maintaining reliable breaking performance.
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 enhances the tile cutting process by ensuring a consistent and efficient breaking force application along the notch, improving the tile's separation into two sections, and allowing for precise control over the cutting process.
Implementation Method 1
A return spring, which can be a compression spring with a retaining pin through it, is provided to move the breaking support downwards
Implementation Method 2
The two flat support levels are connected to each other via an inclined surface. By moving the slider in a plane parallel to the plane of the support surface, the breaking support can be moved vertically from a non-functional position to a functional position. During this movement, an edge of a breaking element forming the breaking support slides down the inclined surface
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a tile cutter comprising a support frame (1) having a support surface for a tile to be cut, a breaking support (2) associated with the support frame (1) which can be moved upwards by a slider (3) from below transversely to the plane of the support surface (4), and a breaking element which can be moved from above towards the support surface (4) to apply a breaking force. For a further development that is advantageous in use, it is proposed that the slider (3) can be moved transversely to the direction of movement of the breaking support (2), wherein in a first operating position of the slider (3) the breaking support (2) rests on a first lower support level (6) and in a second operating position rests on a second, higher support level (7).