Tile Square With Templates For Large Format Tile Layout

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional carpentry speed squares are inadequate for large format tile installation due to insufficient size and lack of features specific to tile setters, such as templates for marking holes for various pipe sizes and toilet flanges.

Innovation Solution

A triangular tile square with a rigid, transparent sheet featuring a right isosceles shape, extended sides for larger format tiles, and a fence with a plurality of templates for marking holes and arcs for toilet flanges, along with ruler indicia for precise measurements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If conventional carpentry speed squares are used, then the tool is compact and easy to handle, but the size is insufficient for large format tiles and lacks tile-specific features

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehandling convenienceVSAvoidtool surface area

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The tool is segmented into functional zones: the triangular body provides basic measuring and marking capabilities, while detachable templates for pipes and flanges can be attached only when needed. This allows the base tool to remain compact while providing expanded functionality when required.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The tool transitions from a two-dimensional triangular template to a three-dimensional configuration by attaching vertical fences and templates that extend perpendicular to the tile surface, creating multiple functional layers that can be used simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If conventional carpentry speed squares are used, then the tool structure is simple, but it lacks templates for marking holes for plumbing pipes and toilet flanges

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetemplate functionalityVSAvoidtool structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The tool is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple different templates (various pipe sizes, flange types) through standardized attachment mechanisms, allowing one base tool to serve multiple specialized functions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The tool structure is made dynamic through movable and detachable components. Templates can be attached and removed as needed, and the fence can be repositioned along the tile edge, allowing the tool to adapt its configuration to different marking and measuring tasks.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Productivity

If larger tile sizes are used, then the aesthetic open look and ease of maintenance are improved, but the weight makes tiles harder to handle and install

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation efficiencyVSAvoidtile weight

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

All marking, measurement, and layout work is completed before the tile is installed. The tool allows tile setters to pre-mark cut lines, hole positions, and alignment references on the tile surface while it is still manageable, eliminating the need for adjustments after installation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The tool replaces complex mechanical layout procedures (string lines, multiple measurement tools, calculation sheets) with an integrated geometric system where all measurements and markings are derived from the fixed triangular geometry and attached templates, reducing physical effort and potential for error.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

4Measurement precision

If conventional speed squares are used, then the tool is compact, but it cannot provide accurate markings for large format tiles requiring tighter tolerances

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemarking accuracyVSAvoidtool size

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The tool uses precise factory-formed templates that are copied onto the tile surface. The templates themselves are manufactured with high precision and serve as master patterns, ensuring consistent accurate markings across all tiles without requiring repeated measurements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The tool combines materials with different properties: a rigid triangular body for structural stability and precise geometry, transparent or translucent sections for visibility and alignment verification, and detachable template components for flexibility. This composite construction maintains precision while enabling various functions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

Data Source

PatentUS11353310B2Tile square

Publication Date: 2022.06.07 JOHNSON ASHTON TRAVIS

AI summary

A tile square includes a right isosceles triangular substantially rigid transparent sheet with ruler indicia adjacent to the hypotenuse and one of the equal sides. A fence is provided along the other equal side. A plurality of templates are formed in the sheet between the sides and hypotenuse. The templates include a plurality of holes for a range of pipe sizes and a series of arcs defining peripheral boundaries of a closet or toilet flange. The equal sides of the tool are at least 18 inches in length.