Tile Leveling Device with Rotatable Knob-Cam and Breakable Hook-Base
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods fail to effectively level and space tiles evenly on surfaces, such as floors, walls, and ceilings, without requiring tools or causing damage during the adhesive curing process.
Innovation Solution
A two-part device comprising a rotatable knob-cam and a fixed hook-base, where the knob-cam includes helical diametral opposed frontal action cams and a domed knob, and the hook-base has ribs for spacing and separating tiles, allowing for tool-free installation and even clamping to ensure coplanar tile surfaces during adhesive curing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional tile leveling methods are used, then tiles can be installed on surfaces, but the tiles cannot be evenly leveled and spaced
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into two separate parts: a base portion that remains on the tile and a knob-cam portion that is rotated to apply clamping force. This segmentation allows the device to achieve precise leveling and spacing functions while maintaining simplicity in each individual component.
Solution Approach 2:
The neck portion of the base is inserted through a slot in the knob-cam, creating a nested configuration where the base is partially contained within the knob-cam structure. This nesting enables compact design and efficient force transmission while maintaining device simplicity.
2Stability of the object's composition
If adhesive is applied to secure tiles, then tiles are permanently fixed, but the tiles cannot be adjusted during curing process
Solution Approach 1:
The device is installed and tiles are positioned and leveled before the adhesive fully cures. The knob-cam applies clamping force to hold tiles in the correct position during the curing process, ensuring stability while allowing for preliminary adjustments before the adhesive sets completely.
Solution Approach 2:
The device transitions from a static clamping position to a locked position as the knob-cam is rotated. The helical cam surfaces convert rotational motion into linear clamping force, dynamically adjusting and maintaining tile position throughout the adhesive curing process.
3Force
If clamping force is applied to hold tiles in position, then tiles are secured during curing, but the device may damage the tiles upon removal
Solution Approach 1:
The neck portion of the base is designed as a disposable component that is broken away after the adhesive cures. This sacrificial element absorbs the removal force and prevents damage to the tiles and the reusable knob-cam portion, allowing the main device to be reused multiple times.
Solution Approach 2:
The neck portion is extracted or broken away from the base after serving its purpose of holding the device in position during curing. This separation allows the main device body to be removed without the clamping force being applied directly to the tiles during removal.
4Ease of operation
If tool-free installation is implemented, then installation process is simplified, but the device lacks adjustment precision
Solution Approach 1:
The knob-cam features a domed knob portion and helical cam surfaces that convert simple rotational motion into precise linear clamping force. The curved cam surfaces provide mechanical advantage and precise control over the clamping force applied to the tiles, achieving high positioning precision through manual rotation.
Solution Approach 2:
The device changes the parameter of clamping force through rotation of the knob-cam. As the knob-cam rotates, the helical cam surfaces progressively increase the clamping force on the tiles, allowing for precise adjustment of tile position and level without requiring tools.
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 ensures tiles are evenly spaced and levelled, providing clamping force to maintain correct positions until the adhesive sets, allowing for easy removal of the device without damaging the tiles, ensuring a professional finish.
Implementation Method 1
The knob-cam includes two helical diametral opposed frontal action cams
Implementation Method 2
The knob-cam is rotated until the tiles are temporarily secured between the knob-cam and the base
Implementation Method 3
The neck portion extending upwardly above the tiles, and is adapted to be broken away after the adhesive sets upon application of sufficient upward force or sideways force
Data Source
AI summary
A two part device is used in leveling and spacing tiles. The device includes two parts, a rotatable portion called a knob-cam and a fixed portion called hook-base. The hook-base includes ribs for spacing and separating tiles, and a neck portion extending through a slot opening in the knob-cam. In use, the hook-base portion is set down and tiles are laid down and spaced by the ribs of the base portion. The neck portion extends upwardly above the tiles, and is adapted to be broken away upon application of sufficient upward force or sideways force. The knob-cam includes two diametral opposed frontal action cam surfaces that engage portions of the hook when the knob-cam is rotated. The knob-cam is rotated until the tiles are secured between the knob-cam and the hook-base. This clamps the corners or edges of the tiles, making coplanar upper surfaces.