Trapeziform Paving Pieces for Complex Pattern Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Complex tiling or paving patterns require numerous different shapes, making them expensive to manufacture and maintain due to the need for individual piece replacement, as well as difficult to assemble accurately.
Innovation Solution
A tiling or paving apparatus comprising pieces with only two or three simple shapes, including trapeziform and polygonal pieces, which can be assembled in various configurations to create multiple patterns, using interlocking projections for accurate alignment and secure fitting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If numerous different shapes are used to create complex tiling patterns, then pattern complexity and aesthetic appeal are improved, but manufacturing cost and assembly difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single modular tile unit that can serve multiple functions and create various patterns through different arrangements. The basic tile with specific geometric features (parallel edges of different lengths, converging edges at specific angles) can be configured in multiple orientations and combinations to generate complex tiling patterns, eliminating the need for numerous different shaped pieces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing complex tiling patterns into repeating modular units. Each tile is designed as a standardized module that can be assembled in sequences and configurations to form larger complex patterns. This modular approach allows complex designs to be built from simple, standardized components rather than requiring custom-shaped pieces for each pattern element.
2Adaptability or versatility
If numerous different shapes are used to create complex tiling patterns, then pattern variety is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single modular tile unit that can serve multiple functions and create various patterns through different arrangements. The basic tile with specific geometric features (parallel edges of different lengths, converging edges at specific angles) can be configured in multiple orientations and combinations to generate complex tiling patterns, eliminating the need for numerous different shaped pieces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by varying the arrangement, orientation, and configuration of standardized tiles rather than changing the tile shape itself. By modifying parameters such as the number of tiles in a sequence, their rotational orientation, and the patterns of repetition, diverse tiling designs can be achieved from a single tile type, significantly simplifying manufacturing.
3Adaptability or versatility
If numerous different shapes are used to create complex tiling patterns, then pattern complexity is improved, but assembly accuracy becomes more difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service through self-aligning features built into the tile design. The tiles incorporate geometric characteristics such as parallel edges of specific length ratios and converging edges at predetermined angles (e.g., 60 degrees) that naturally guide proper alignment during assembly. These inherent geometric constraints enable the tiles to self-correct and align accurately without requiring complex external alignment tools or procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies asymmetry by designing tiles with non-uniform geometric features, specifically parallel edges of different lengths and converging edges at specific angles. This asymmetric design creates unique fitting relationships between adjacent tiles, ensuring that only the correct orientation and positioning will achieve proper interlocking, thereby guiding assembly accuracy through the tile geometry itself rather than through symmetric, ambiguous interfaces.
4Ease of repair
If individual tiling pieces are manufactured ad-hoc as replacements, then pattern maintenance is possible, but replacement cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single modular tile unit that can serve multiple functions and create various patterns through different arrangements. The basic tile with specific geometric features (parallel edges of different lengths, converging edges at specific angles) can be configured in multiple orientations and combinations to generate complex tiling patterns, eliminating the need for numerous different shaped pieces.
Data Source
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AI summary
A tiling or paving apparatus comprising a plurality of trapeziform tiling or paving pieces each having a substantially trapeziform shape defined by two parallel edges of unequal length separated by two converging edges of substantially equal length which converge at a convergence angle common to each trapeziform tiling or paving piece. The apparatus includes a polygonal tiling or paving arrangement adapted to present a generally polygonal shape defined by a plurality of edges (preferably more than four edges) wherein the length of each edge of the plurality of edges of the polygonal arrangement is substantially equal to the length of a parallel edge of a trapeziform piece. The length of each of the two converging edges of a trapeziform piece is substantially equal to the length of the longer of the two parallel edges thereof.