Tile Leveling Device with Rotatable Knob-Cam and Fixed Hook-Base
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for laying tiles fail to ensure equal leveling and spacing, particularly on surfaces like floors, walls, and ceilings, as they lack efficient tools for achieving coplanarity and consistent spacing without requiring tools or causing damage.
Innovation Solution
A two-part device system comprising a rotatable knob-cam and a fixed hook-base, where the knob-cam provides clamping and leveling through helical cams and a knurled gripping portion, and the hook-base offers spacing and separation with ribs, allowing for tool-free installation and temporary securing of tiles during adhesive curing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional methods are used for laying tiles, then the process is simple, but the tiles cannot be evenly leveled and spaced
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into two separate parts: a fixed base portion with spacing ribs and a rotatable knob-cam portion with clamping and leveling functions. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function effectively while keeping the overall device simple and easy to understand.
Solution Approach 2:
The device combines multiple functions into a single integrated tool: spacing (via ribs on the base), clamping (via the knob-cam mechanism), and leveling (via the annular seating surface). This merging eliminates the need for multiple separate tools and achieves precise tile installation.
2Reliability
If clamping force is increased to secure tiles, then tile positioning stability improves, but tile surfaces may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The knob-cam features a domed or annular seating surface that contacts the tile at multiple points around its perimeter. This curved geometry distributes the clamping force evenly across the tile edges rather than concentrating it at single points, preventing surface damage while maintaining secure positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The knob-cam mechanism allows dynamic adjustment of clamping force. The operator can apply just enough force to secure the tile during adhesive curing, then easily release and remove the device without leaving marks. The rotational cam action provides smooth, controlled force application.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate tools are used for spacing and clamping, then functional versatility is achieved, but device complexity and installation time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The single device performs three functions simultaneously: the base ribs provide spacing, the knob-cam provides clamping force, and the annular seating surface provides leveling. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate spacer blocks, clamps, and leveling tools, reducing complexity while maintaining versatility.
4Reliability
If permanent securing methods are used, then tile stability is ensured, but device removal becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The device provides temporary clamping force during the adhesive curing period to ensure tile stability. Once the adhesive sets, the clamping function is no longer needed, and the device can be easily removed. The design anticipates this temporary need and facilitates easy removal afterward.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed as a reusable temporary tool rather than a permanent fixture. The base portion can be discarded or reused, while the valuable knob-cam mechanism can be removed and reused on other projects. This approach prioritizes ease of removal and reuse over permanent attachment.
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 even spacing and leveling of tiles, maintaining coplanarity until adhesive sets, allowing for easy removal of the device components, thus facilitating a professional-looking tile installation without the need for additional spacers or tools.
Implementation Method 1
The knob-cam includes two diametral opposed frontal action cam surfaces that engage the blades when the knob-cam is rotated
Implementation Method 2
said knob-cam including a portion adapted for manual gripping by the user with a knurled or ribbed gripping portion
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2c
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
A two part device (1000) is used in leveling and spacing tiles (4100). The device includes two parts, a rotatable portion called a knob-cam (2000) and a fixed portion called hook-base (3000). The hook-base includes ribs (3220) for spacing and separating tiles, and a neck portion (3140) 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 (2100) that engage portions (3110) 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 device clamps the corners or edges of the tiles, making coplanar upper surfaces.