Tile Leveling Wedge and Strip Structure for Precise Spacing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for leveling and aligning tiles during installation are inefficient and require multiple tools, leading to potential spacing errors, aesthetic issues, and safety concerns.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical-based tile leveling device with parallel strip members and a wedge device that provides multiple points of contact and a breakaway section, allowing for efficient alignment and leveling of tiles of varying thicknesses using a single tool.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional manual methods are used for leveling and aligning tiles, then installers can work with basic tools, but the process is inefficient and requires multiple tools leading to spacing errors and aesthetic issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (leveling, aligning, spacing) into a single integrated tile leveling device. The device includes a body with multiple strip members that can simultaneously contact multiple tiles, providing both alignment and leveling functions in one tool rather than requiring separate tools for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The tile leveling device is designed to perform multiple functions: it levels tiles vertically, aligns them horizontally, and maintains proper spacing between tiles. The breakaway section allows the device to be used repeatedly while the wedge device provides additional alignment capability, making the system versatile for various tile installation scenarios.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple tools are used for tile alignment and leveling, then various functions can be achieved, but spacing errors propagate and aesthetic quality decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The device establishes proper spacing and alignment before the adhesive sets. The strip members are positioned in advance to define the correct spacing between tiles, and the breakaway section is designed to be removed after the tile is properly positioned, ensuring precision is locked in before final setting occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The strip members act as intermediaries between the installer and the tiles, providing a mechanical reference for proper spacing and alignment. The wedge device serves as an intermediary tool that translates installer input into precise tile positioning, reducing the skill level required while maintaining high precision.
3Ease of operation
If a single integrated device is used for tile leveling and alignment, then tool quantity is reduced and workflow is simplified, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into distinct functional components: a body with multiple strip members, a breakaway section, and a separate wedge device. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while keeping the overall device manageable. The breakaway section can be easily removed after use, and the wedge device is a simple additive component.
Solution Approach 2:
The breakaway section is designed to be discarded after a single use, eliminating the need to clean or maintain that portion of the device. This allows the permanent components (body and strip members) to be simple in design while still providing complex functionality. The wedge device is recovered and reused for multiple tiles.
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 faster and more precise tile installation by minimizing the number of tools required, ensuring proper spacing and alignment, and reducing stress on installers, while accommodating different tile thicknesses.
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.