Tile Leveling Clip With Wedge Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tile leveling devices are cumbersome, time-consuming, and often result in misalignment due to mortar contraction and expansion, are not suitable for large format tiles, and can damage tiles during installation, especially when using a rubber hammer or breaking the clip during removal.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a clip, a wedge, and an extension wedge, with a clip design that includes sharp edges and a V-shaped groove for easy removal, and a rubber extension wedge to protect sensitive tiles, allowing for precise leveling and adjustment of tiles of any size or shape without the need for a plyer, and preventing voids between the base and tiles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a rubber hammer is used to level and adjust tiles, then the tiles can be leveled, but it may cause damage to the surface of the tile, premature breaking, or micro-cracks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a leveling device with a clip and wedge mechanism that acts as an intermediary between the tile setter and the tile. The wedge is inserted into the clip positioned between adjacent tiles, and by pressing the wedge, the tiles are leveled through the clip's mechanical action rather than direct hammer impact. This intermediary mechanism eliminates the need for rubber hammers while achieving the same leveling function without damaging the tile surface.
2Ease of operation
If the wedge is forced inward to level the tiles, then the tiles are leveled, but the clip may break
Solution Approach 1:
The clip is segmented into a top portion and a bottom portion connected by a hinge, allowing it to flex and open as the wedge is inserted. The top portion has a U-shaped opening that receives the wedge, and the hinge allows the clip to deform under force without breaking. This segmentation enables the clip to withstand the forcing action needed to level tiles while maintaining structural integrity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If current leveling devices are used on Large Format Tiles, then small tiles can be leveled, but the devices fail to provide adequate support and alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The leveling device is designed with universal applicability through its clip-wedge mechanism that can accommodate tiles of various sizes including large format tiles. The clip spans between adjacent tiles and the wedge inserts into the clip's opening, creating a mechanical linkage that works regardless of tile size. The device provides adequate support and alignment precision for LFT by distributing the leveling force across the clip structure rather than concentrating it at single points.
4Ease of operation
If the clip is broken by forcing it for removal, then the clip can be removed, but it may cause damage to the installed tiles
Solution Approach 1:
The clip incorporates a hinge joint that provides dynamic movement capability. During removal, the clip can flex and open at the hinge rather than requiring forced breaking. This dynamic characteristic allows the clip to be pried open and removed by hand without damaging the tiles, eliminating the need for forceful removal actions that could cause harm.
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
Significantly reduces installation time and cost, ensures precise alignment, protects tiles from damage, and eliminates the need for a plyer, making the process more efficient and effective for various tile sizes and designs.
Implementation Method 1
The wedge is presses into clip, forcing the tiles towards the base of the clip to level the tiles
Implementation Method 2
The top portion has three sharp edges (top edge and side edges) around the opening to grab onto the teeth's of the wedge
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is an adjusting device used for adjusting and leveling a plurality of tiles on a floor or a wall during an installation, the adjusting device comprises of a clip which is placed underneath a laying surface of at least two adjacent tiles and comprises of a top portion in vertical plane, and it has an opening which receives a first wedge and has three sharp edges around the opening to grab the first wedge, a bottom plate in horizontal plane comprises of a flat base having at least two support protrusions at each side to support a tile, and a first wedge has two triangle faces and one quadrilateral face having teeth to be engaged with the opening in the clip, so the first wedge presses the tiles towards the bottom plate of the clip in such a way to level the tiles.