Tile Leveling Wedge and Strip Assembly 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 and wedge system that includes a body with parallel strip members and a wedge device, allowing for simultaneous alignment and leveling of multiple tiles with adjustable spacing, using breakaway sections for easy removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple separate tools are used for aligning and leveling tiles, then alignment and leveling functions are provided, but the number of tools increases and installation efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate tools (alignment tool and leveling tool) into a single integrated tile installation device. The device includes a body with parallel strip members for alignment and a wedge mechanism for leveling, allowing both functions to be performed with one tool rather than multiple separate tools, thereby improving installation efficiency and reducing tool complexity.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual alignment and leveling methods are used, then installation can proceed, but spacing errors may propagate and aesthetic quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates pre-configured parallel strip members with predetermined spacing that establish accurate tile spacing before installation begins. The strip members are positioned and secured in advance, providing a reference framework that guides tile placement and prevents spacing errors from propagating, thereby improving manufacturing precision without significantly increasing installation complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If tiles of varying thicknesses are installed, then design flexibility is achieved, but maintaining level alignment becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs a dynamic wedge leveling mechanism that can be adjusted to accommodate tiles of varying thicknesses. The wedge can be inserted at different positions and angles, allowing the installer to dynamically adapt the leveling action to match the specific thickness of each tile being installed, thereby maintaining precise level alignment despite variations in tile thickness.
4Manufacturing precision
If traditional alignment methods are used, then installation can proceed, but tile pivoting occurs and alignment accuracy decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses parallel strip members that are positioned and secured before tile placement to prevent tile pivoting. The strip members create a stable reference framework that physically constrains tile movement and prevents alignment errors before they can occur, thereby improving alignment accuracy without significantly complicating the installation process.
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
Enhances installation efficiency by reducing the number of tools needed and ensuring precise alignment and spacing, minimizing stress on installers, and preventing tile pivoting, while accommodating tiles of varying 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.