Tile Leveling Wedge and Strip Structure for Precise Alignment
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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
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple separate tools are used for leveling and aligning tiles, then alignment and leveling can be achieved, but installation time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate tile installation tools (leveling device, alignment device, and spacing device) into a single integrated tool. The body includes parallel strip members for spacing, a leveling mechanism with adjustable legs, and alignment features all in one device, eliminating the need to switch between multiple tools during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The single tile installation tool performs multiple functions simultaneously: it levels tiles using adjustable legs, aligns tiles using parallel strip members that maintain consistent spacing, and positions tiles using integrated spacing mechanisms. This multi-functional design allows one tool to replace several traditional tools.
2Ease of operation
If traditional manual methods are used for tile spacing and alignment, then installation can proceed, but spacing errors propagate across the substrate
Solution Approach 1:
The parallel strip members are pre-configured with precise spacing dimensions before installation. These strip members establish correct tile spacing in advance, and the breakaway section is pre-positioned to ensure consistent joint spacing. This preliminary setup prevents spacing errors from propagating during the installation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The parallel strip members act as intermediary elements between tiles, maintaining precise spacing relationships. These strip members transfer the spacing geometry from the tool body to the tile joints, ensuring consistent spacing across the entire substrate without requiring manual measurement for each tile.
3Productivity
If a single integrated tool is used for tile leveling and alignment, then productivity increases and installation time decreases, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated tool is divided into distinct functional modules: a body with parallel strip members for spacing, a leveling mechanism with adjustable legs, alignment features, and a breakaway section. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while contributing to the overall integrated design, making the complexity manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The breakaway section is designed to be temporarily part of the tool during installation, then deliberately discarded after use. This section provides necessary structural support and alignment during the installation process but is removed once its function is complete, reducing the permanent complexity of the tool while maintaining installation efficiency.
4Adaptability or versatility
If tiles of varying thicknesses are installed using traditional methods, then installation flexibility is maintained, but achieving proper leveling becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The leveling mechanism includes adjustable legs that can dynamically change their height and position during installation. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the tool to accommodate tiles of varying thicknesses while maintaining a consistent reference plane for leveling, ensuring accurate leveling regardless of tile thickness variations.
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 facilitates faster and more precise tile installation by minimizing the number of tools required and ensuring proper spacing and alignment, reducing the risk of errors and improving installation efficiency.
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
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.