Wedge Tile Leveling Device with Parallel Strips for Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tile installation methods lack efficient tools for leveling, aligning, and spacing tiles, leading to potential spacing errors, aesthetic issues, and safety concerns.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical-based tile leveling device and wedge device that includes a body with parallel strip members and a wedge mechanism to level and align tiles, accommodating varying thicknesses and providing efficient installation with minimal tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual tile installation methods are used, then installers can complete the installation process, but they spend excessive time aligning and leveling tiles, and risk spacing errors propagating across the substrate
Solution Approach 1:
The leveling device is placed on the substrate before tile installation to establish reference surfaces and spacing guidelines. The device includes pre-configured leveling elements and spacing mechanisms that prepare the installation area in advance, allowing tiles to be quickly positioned with correct alignment and spacing from the start of installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a mechanical leveling device as an intermediary tool between the installer and the tiles. This device includes leveling arms, spacing elements, and alignment mechanisms that mediate the positioning process, ensuring consistent spacing and alignment without requiring the installer to manually measure and adjust each tile position.
2Ease of operation
If traditional tile installation tools are used, then installation can proceed, but multiple separate tools are required for leveling, aligning, and spacing, increasing tool complexity and installer burden
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple tile installation functions into a single integrated device. The leveling device incorporates leveling mechanisms, alignment guides, and spacing elements all in one unit, eliminating the need for separate tools for each function. This merged design simplifies the installer's workflow while maintaining all necessary capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The leveling device is designed with multi-functionality to perform leveling, aligning, and spacing operations simultaneously. The device includes adjustable components that can adapt to different tile sizes and installation patterns, making it a universal tool that replaces multiple specialized tools while maintaining ease of operation for various installation scenarios.
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 precise leveling and alignment of tiles, reducing the need for multiple tools and minimizing stress on installers, while ensuring proper spacing and faster installation.
Implementation Method 1
a wedge device includes a backstop member and a pair of members extending from the backstop member. Each of pair of members includes 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.