US20070257242A1 - Compact carpet stretcher - Google Patents
Compact carpet stretcher Download PDFInfo
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- US20070257242A1 US20070257242A1 US11/608,153 US60815306A US2007257242A1 US 20070257242 A1 US20070257242 A1 US 20070257242A1 US 60815306 A US60815306 A US 60815306A US 2007257242 A1 US2007257242 A1 US 2007257242A1
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- carpet
- anchors
- head unit
- frame member
- stretcher
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
- A47G27/00—Floor fabrics; Fastenings therefor
- A47G27/04—Carpet fasteners; Carpet-expanding devices ; Laying carpeting; Tools therefor
- A47G27/0487—Tools for laying carpeting
- A47G27/0493—Carpet-expanding devices, e.g. stretchers
Definitions
- the subject matter described herein relates to web tensioning apparatus and methods, and in preferred embodiments to compact and light-weight carpet stretching tools.
- the carpet material When carpet is installed between opposing walls, the carpet material is often secured to the underlying floor along the perimeter of the floor area. Thin strips of wood having carpet-gripping tacks protruding upwards therefrom (known as “tack strips”) are fastened to the periphery of the floor area in order to secure the underside of the carpet to the floor.
- tack strips Thin strips of wood having carpet-gripping tacks protruding upwards therefrom
- the carpet is secured to the tack strips along one perimeter of the floor area, and then the carpet is stretched across the floor area so that it conforms to the surface on which it is installed. Next, the stretched carpet is secured to the tack strips along an opposite edge of the floor area. This process is repeated with the remaining unsecured edges of the carpet, until the carpet has been stretched and installed as desired.
- the carpet may be more permanently secured to the floor by flattening the tacks in the tack strip using a hammer or other suitable tool.
- Carpet installers typically use a stretching tool consisting of a long multi-piece tube with a carpet-engaging head at one end of the tube and a pressure plate at the other end of the tube.
- a desired pole length is achieved by insertion of extension poles.
- the pressure plate is placed against a first wall, and the head is placed in engagement with carpet near a second, opposing wall.
- a lever is then actuated to extend the head toward the second wall, forcing the head away from the pressure plate.
- the carpet is thereby stretched in a direction away from the first wall and toward the second wall.
- the stretched carpet is pressed down on the tack strips near the head unit and the operation is repeated.
- Such stretching tools are typically ported to a room in pieces and assembled inside the workspace. This is due to the fact that in its assembled form, a conventional stretcher can easily exceed 20-25 feet in length. A number of extension poles sections are carried to the worksite together with the pressure plate and head units, after which the stretcher is assembled.
- the aggregate weight of such stretching apparatus often exceeds 90 pounds.
- a substantial number of poles are used to construct the stretching apparatus.
- the combined weight of the poles, the head unit and the pressure plate section usually varies from about 80 to 100 pounds.
- the weight and size of the conventional stretching apparatus are factors during transportation of the stretcher from one worksite to another.
- An appropriate amount of cargo space in the installer's van or truck is typically set aside for various head units, pressure plates and the set of extension poles.
- the size and girth of the conventional stretcher unit affect the ease and speed with which an installer may complete a carpet installation.
- the carpet is stretched at lateral intervals of about 2-4 feet. For an average room, this involves moving the stretcher about 5-10 times for each wall.
- the speed and ease with which the stretcher can be relocated may have a significant affect on installation times.
- the size, weight, and number of component parts also affect the cost of the stretching unit.
- the weight of the unit affects raw material and shipping costs and the number of components generally affects design and manufacturing cost.
- the anchoring method can affect the likelihood that the workspace is damaged.
- the pressure plate is often placed against the opposing baseboard or wall in which case care should be taken not to damage the baseboard or wall during a stretching operation. If too much force is applied during the stretching operation, the pressure plate may cause cracking, indentation, or other damage to the baseboard or wall against which it is pressed.
- auxiliary components may be needed to adapt a stretching system to stretch carpet over concrete subfloors. These additional components impact system cost, transportation difficulty and set-up time.
- the room size and configuration may also pose limitations. Typically carpet is stretched by anchoring the system against the opposing wall. If an expanse of carpet is to be stretched over a tack strip which does not face an opposing wall, alternate methods and/or tools may be required to complete the installation. The same may be true for rooms exceeding the combined length of extension poles on hand or the maximum recommended length of a stretching unit, beyond which the extension poles may bow.
- a compact carpet stretching apparatus may include a frame member, floor engagement members, and a head unit configured for use without extension poles.
- the stretcher apparatus includes a head unit to engage a portion of a web of carpet, frame side members spaced laterally of the head unit that extend from the rear of the head unit past the front end of the head unit, and floor engaging anchors coupled to the frame side members proximal to the front portion.
- a stretcher apparatus in another illustrative embodiment, includes a head unit having a front side and a rear side and having one or more downwardly projecting members to engage a portion of a web of carpet.
- the apparatus may also include a frame member that is movably coupled to the head unit such that the head unit is operable to move in a longitudinal direction.
- the stretcher apparatus may further include a plurality of curved anchors to removably couple the frame member to a floor. Each of the curved anchors may have an arcuate body portion and may be coupled to the frame member such that the anchors are disposed laterally and forwardly of the head unit.
- the unit may be compact, light-weight, and adapted to operate without the use of extension poles.
- the stretcher may be configured to stretch carpet without the use of a pressure plate on an opposing wall.
- the unit may be configured to be used directly on both wood and concrete subfloors.
- the unit in various embodiments may be easily repositioned between stretching operations.
- the unit may optionally consist of a relatively small number of component parts, thereby reducing manufacturing cost.
- certain embodiments may substantially reduce installer set-up time. Seventh, some embodiments may permit the installer to postpone trimming the carpet's edge until after all or a substantial portion of the carpet has been stretched.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a portion of a stretcher apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a stretcher apparatus in a retracted position in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the stretcher apparatus of FIG. 2 in an extended position.
- FIG. 4 is another perspective view of the stretcher apparatus of FIG. 2 in a retracted position.
- FIG. 5 is another perspective view of the stretcher apparatus of FIG. 4 in an extended position.
- FIG. 6 is yet another perspective view of the stretcher apparatus of FIG. 2 in a retracted position.
- FIG. 7 is yet another perspective view of the stretcher apparatus of FIG. 6 in an extended position.
- FIG. 8 is front view of the stretcher apparatus of FIG. 2 in a retracted position.
- FIG. 9 is front view of the stretcher apparatus of FIG. 8 in an extended position.
- FIG. 10 is cross-sectional side view of the stretcher apparatus of FIG. 8 in a retracted position over a first floor area.
- FIG. 11 is cross-sectional side view of the stretcher apparatus of FIG. 9 in an extended position over a first floor area.
- FIG. 12 is a flow diagram of an installing method in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 13 is cross-sectional side view of the stretcher apparatus of FIG. 8 in a retracted position over a second floor area.
- FIG. 14 is cross-sectional side view of the stretcher apparatus of FIG. 9 in an extended position over a second floor area.
- FIG. 15 is a side view of a stretcher apparatus in a retracted position in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 16 is a side view of the stretcher apparatus of FIG. 15 in an extended position.
- FIG. 17 is a close-up side view of a portion of a stretcher apparatus in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.
- a stretcher apparatus includes a frame member 120 having arms 122 and 124 that join at a rear portion 126 and extend toward a front portion 128 .
- the arms 122 and 124 are separated at or near the front portion 128 , and a support member 130 extends between the arms 122 and 124 .
- the support member 130 provides mechanical support for the frame member 120 during the stretching operation.
- the support member 130 acts as a bridge that spans between the arms 122 and 124 proximal to the front portion 128 and may include a handle bar 132 that is suitable for grasping by a user.
- An adapter shaft 150 extends from the rear portion 126 toward the front portion 128 .
- a receiving end 152 operates to receive a head-moving mechanism so that a head unit is positioned at or near the front portion 128 (described in more detail in connection with FIGS. 2-3 ).
- the adapter shaft 150 is used to couple the head-moving mechanism to the frame member 120 .
- the adapter shaft 150 is coupled to the frame member 120 using a locking pin 154 , but other suitable connecting devices may employed to couple the adapter shaft 150 to the frame member 120 .
- the adapter shaft 150 may be coupled to the frame member 120 by welding or integrally forming the adapter shaft 150 with the frame member 120 . Such a coupling may reduce swaying movement of the stretcher head unit during the stretching operation.
- the adapter shaft 150 includes a set of holes 156 that are separated along the longitudinal direction extending from the rear portion 126 to the front portion 128 . These holes 156 may be used to couple the head-moving mechanism to the adapter shaft 150 using a locking pin or another suitable connecting device (described in more detail in connection with FIGS. 2-3 ). The head-moving mechanism may be coupled to the adapter shaft 150 at various positions by inserting the locking pin in different holes 156 .
- each engagement member 162 and 164 is coupled to the arms 122 and 124 , respectively, proximal to the front portion 128 .
- Each engagement member 162 and 164 operates to removably couple the frame member 120 to the floor area.
- each engagement member 162 and 164 includes one or more pin anchors 166 extending downwardly. These anchors 166 may be used to temporarily couple the frame member 120 to the floor area.
- the engagement members 162 and 164 may be integrally or releasably coupled to the frame member 120 .
- the engagement members 162 and 164 may be releasably coupled to the frame member 120 using conventional quick-connect devices so that a user could attach different types of engagement members depending on the floor surface.
- the engagement members 162 and 164 may be pivotally coupled to the arms 122 and 124 such that, after the engagement member 162 and 164 are coupled to the floor area, the rear portion 126 of the frame member 120 may rotate about a vertical axis relative to the engagement members.
- arms 122 , 124 may be hingeably coupled the engagement members 162 , 164 and the side arms 122 , 124 may comprise telescoping shafts so that the adapter shaft 150 may be oriented at an angle relative to the normal axis of the tack strip and wall.
- the user is able to adjust the direction of stretch relative to the wall, which improves the ability of the user to stretch out an undesirable area of carpet bunching or bubble.
- the stretcher apparatus 100 includes a head unit 220 that can be moved in a predetermined path relative to the frame member 120 .
- the head unit has a front side 221 , a bottom side 222 , a rear side 223 , and a top side 224 .
- the bottom side 222 of the head unit 220 has downwardly protruding members (not shown in FIGS. 2-3 ) that engage a portion of a web of carpet during the stretching operation.
- the top side 224 of the head unit 220 may include a flat or cushioned surface, which provides the user with an area to apply a downward force on the head unit 220 . The application of such a downward force promotes engagement between the head unit 220 and the web of carpet material.
- a head-moving mechanism 250 provides a reciprocating motion to the head unit 220 such that the head unit 220 can be extended and retracted relative to the frame member 120 .
- the head-moving mechanism 250 includes a connection shaft 252 that mates with the receiving end 152 ( FIG. 1 ) of the adapter shaft 150 .
- a locking pin 254 or other suitable connecting device may be used to couple the connection shaft 252 with the adapter shaft 150 .
- the connection shaft 252 may be coupled to the frame member 120 .
- the adapter shaft 150 is angled slightly upward from the plane of the floor area. Accordingly, when the receiving end 152 receives a head-moving mechanism 250 , the head unit 220 is positioned proximal to the front portion 128 and slightly elevated from the floor area. Thus, when the head unit 220 is forced downward to engage the carpet, the adapter shaft 150 is angularly displaced by a small amount (in some embodiments, about 2° to 4° from the plane of the floor area), which creates a moment about the frame member 120 that compels the engagement members 162 and 164 toward the floor area.
- a small amount in some embodiments, about 2° to 4° from the plane of the floor area
- the head-moving mechanism 250 also includes a slider link 256 to guide at least a portion of the head unit's motion path.
- the head unit 220 is movably coupled to the connection shaft 252 by the slider link 256 .
- the slider link 256 permits the head unit 220 to extend toward and retract from the front portion 128 of the frame member 120 .
- the slider link is a telescopic shaft 256 that moves in and out of the connection shaft 252 , thus providing the head unit with a reciprocating motion path.
- the head-moving mechanism 250 includes an actuation member 260 and a link 262 .
- the actuation member 260 is movably coupled to the connection shaft 252 via the link 262 .
- the link 262 is rotatably engaged with the connection shaft 252 such that it can pivot toward the front portion 128 .
- the link 262 is also rotatably engaged with the actuation member 260 so that as the rear portion 266 of the actuation member 260 is moved toward the rear portion 126 of the frame member 120 , the link 262 pivots toward the front portion 128 of the frame member 120 .
- the actuation member 260 may be movably coupled to the head unit 220 either by a rotatable engagement on the top side 224 of the head unit 220 or by a rotatable engagement on the telescopic shaft 256 near the head unit 220 .
- the front portion 268 of the actuation member 260 is rotatably coupled to the head unit 220 so that the motion of the head unit 220 may be controlled by the actuation member 260 .
- the head unit 220 may be retracted away from the front portion 128 by moving the rear portion 268 of the actuation member 260 away from the rear portion 126 of the frame member 120 .
- the head unit 220 may be extended forward toward the front portion 128 of the frame member 120 by moving the rear portion 268 of the actuation member 260 toward the rear portion 126 of the frame member 120 .
- each engagement member 162 and 164 includes one or more anchors 166 extending downwardly. These anchors 166 may be forced down upon a subfloor, biased against tack strips, or press directly into the tack strips to removably couple the frame member 120 to the floor area. As shown in FIGS. 2-3 , a user may position the engagement members 162 and 164 over wood subflooring adjacent to tack strips 175 and apply a downward force on the handle bar 132 to press the anchors 166 into the wood subflooring.
- each engagement member 162 and 164 includes four anchors 166 that have substantially straight bodies.
- Other embodiments may include a different number of anchors, such as one, two, three, five or more.
- some embodiments may include anchors having a curved body (described in more detail, for example, in connection with FIG. 17 ).
- the engagement members 162 and 164 are disposed laterally and forwardly of the head unit 220 .
- the head unit 220 may be extended in a direction along a longitudinal axis using the head-moving mechanism 250 .
- the engagement members 162 and 164 are laterally offset from the head unit 220 and positioned forward of the head unit's front side 221 .
- the engagement members 162 and 164 are offset from the head unit's longitudinal path 225 , which includes the space directly in front of the head unit 220 .
- This configuration may provides the user with substantial access to the portion of the carpet that is directly in front of the head unit 220 , thus simplifying the task of securing that carpet portion to the tack strips.
- FIGS. 6-7 show alternative perspective views of the stretcher apparatus 100 when the head unit 220 is in a retracted position and in an extended position relative to the frame member 120 .
- Other types of head-moving mechanisms may be used to move the head unit 220 in a predetermined path relative to the frame member 120 .
- the head-moving mechanism may include a hydraulic-powered cylinder that reciprocates the head unit 220 with an extending and retracting motion, in which case the actuation member include a hydraulic pump and a lever, switch, or button to activate the cylinder.
- the engagement members 162 and 164 are laterally offset from the head unit 220 .
- This offset 226 reduces or eliminates interference from the engagement members 162 and 164 when the head unit 220 forces the carpet edge in a longitudinal forward direction.
- the head unit 220 includes downwardly protruding members, such as pin members 228 , along the bottom side 222 that may be used to engage the carpet material.
- the head-moving mechanism 250 extends the head unit 220 forward toward the front portion 128 , at least a portion of the carpet material is forced toward the spaced in front of the head unit 220 .
- the engagement members 162 and 164 are laterally offset from the spaced in front of the head unit 220 , so the user may easily handle the carpet edge directly in front of the head unit 220 and secure that portion of the carpet to the tack strips.
- the stretcher apparatus 100 may operate to stretch a web of carpet 320 (or a like material) over a floor area.
- a padding material may be positioned over the floor area to serve as a cushion between the floor area and the carpet 320 .
- a tack strip 305 is coupled to the periphery of the floor area 300 near a vertically extending wall 302 .
- the floor area includes wood subflooring 300 to which the tack strip 305 is secured.
- the tack strip 305 includes an upward extending tack or other pointed element to secure the carpet 320 proximal to the wall 302 .
- the stretcher apparatus 100 is removably coupled to the floor area 300 by the anchors 166 of the engagement members 162 and 162 (member 164 is not shown in FIGS. 10-11 ).
- the anchors 166 are pressed into wood subfloor 300 in a gap between the tack strip 305 and a baseboard 304 on the wall 302 .
- the anchors 166 on the engagement member 162 and 164 removably couple the frame member 120 to the floor area 300 .
- the anchors 166 may rest against the vertical surface of tack strip 305 .
- the tack strip 305 would resist horizontal movement of the stretcher 100 , thereby serving to anchor the stretcher 100 relative to the carpet to be stretched.
- the stretcher apparatus 100 is positioned over the carpet 320 and the head unit 220 is in a retracted position.
- the pin members 228 of the head unit 220 are engaged with the carpet 320 such that the carpet edge 322 will be forced toward the wall 302 when the head unit 220 is extended toward the wall 302 .
- the head-moving mechanism 250 causes the head unit 220 to extend longitudinally forward (toward the wall 302 ).
- the head unit 220 is forced to an extended position and the carpet 320 is stretched, thus moving the carpet edge 322 toward the wall 302 .
- the anchors 166 retain the frame member 120 in position as the head unit 220 applies a force to stretch the carpet 320 . If the user decides that the carpet 320 requires additional stretching (e.g., there is still a significant amount of slack in the carpet 320 ), the user may retract the head unit 220 while leaving the anchors 166 and frame member 120 in place.
- the head unit 220 may be retracted by moving the actuation member 260 away from the rear portion 126 of the frame member 120 (refer to FIG. 10 ).
- the pin members 228 may briefly disengage the carpet 320 while the head unit 220 moves in a rearward direction relative to the carpet. However, the pin members 228 substantially maintain the carpet 320 in the stretched state because the pin members 228 can engage the carpet 320 if the carpet begins to move rearwardly relative to the head unit 220 . After the head unit 220 is in a retracted position, the actuation member 260 may again be moved toward the rear portion 126 of the frame member 120 to extend the head unit 220 toward the wall 302 and stretch the carpet 320 even further.
- the user may leave the head unit 220 in the extended position ( FIG. 11 ) so that the carpet 320 remains stretched, and the user may handle the carpet edge 322 to secure the carpet 320 to the tack strip 305 .
- the depicted web of carpet is provided at a proper length (e.g. as by previous trimming), so the portion of the carpet edge 322 directly in front of the head unit 220 may be tucked into a gap between the baseboard 304 and the wood subfloor 300 .
- the stretcher apparatus 100 may provide the user with substantial access to that portion of the carpet edge 322 directly in front of the head unit 220 .
- the user may lift the anchors 166 from the floor area 300 and repeat the stretching operations at an adjacent location on the floor area 300 .
- the stretcher apparatus 100 may be used in a method 270 so that the user trims the carpet after all or a substantial portion of the carpet has been stretched and retained on tack strips along an expanse of a wall.
- the stretcher apparatus 100 may be operated to stretch a portion of a web of carpet, then moved to stretch an adjacent portion of carpet, and so forth until all or a substantial portion of the carpet has been stretched. Subsequently, the installer may trim all or a substantial part the edge portion near the tack strips in one quick step, thus preventing the need to trim individual edge portions after each stretching operation.
- the user positions 272 the stretcher apparatus 100 over a web of carpet.
- the user positions 274 the anchors 166 of the engagement members 162 and 164 proximal to one or more tack strips. In some instances, this positioning can be accomplished by moving the engagement members 162 and 164 near a wall along which the tack strips are disposed.
- the user urges the assembly downward, thus causing the anchors 166 to penetrate the carpet.
- the anchors 166 have a tapered end such that the carpet can be penetrated by merely applying a downward force to the engagement members 162 and 164 .
- the user may dispose the anchors 166 against the subfloor, against the tack strip, or both. As previously described, this step may be performed to removably couple the anchors 166 to the floor area.
- the user then operates 280 the head-moving mechanism 250 to stretch a portion of the web of carpet. In some instances, the head-moving mechanism 250 may force the head unit 220 toward the wall so as to stretch a portion of the carpet in a longitudinal direction.
- the user secures 282 a portion of the carpet in front of the head unit 220 to the tack strip(s).
- the user may reposition 286 the stretcher apparatus 100 over the adjacent portion of the web of carpet simply by lifting the assembly by the handle and placing the assembly over an unstretched portion of the web of carpet.
- the assembly may be ported with a single hand. Then, the user repeats the previously described operations (depicted as actions 274 - 282 ) at the new position of the stretcher apparatus 100 .
- the user then trims 288 an edge portion of the carpet proximal to the tack strips along the length of the web of carpet. Then, the user positions 290 the trimmed edge of the web of carpet at or near a wall proximal to the tack strips. In some instances, this action may be accomplished by fitting the carpet edge into a gap between the baseboard and a subfloor (as previously described in connection with FIGS. 10-11 ). Because the installer may trim all or a substantial part the edge portion near the tack strips in one simple action, the stretcher apparatus 100 may alleviate the need to trim individual edge portions after each stretching operation.
- the stretcher apparatus 100 may be used to stretch a web of carpet 320 (or a like material) over a different floor area, such as concrete subflooring 400 .
- a padding material 310 is positioned over the concrete floor area 400 to serve as a cushion between the concrete and the carpet 320 .
- a tack strip 305 is coupled to the periphery of the floor area 400 near a vertically extending wall 402 .
- the tack strip 305 includes an upward extending tack or other pointed element to secure the carpet 320 proximal to the wall 402 .
- the stretcher apparatus 100 is removably coupled to the concrete floor area 400 by the anchors 166 of the engagement members 162 and 164 (member 164 is not shown in FIGS. 13-14 ).
- the anchors 166 are position on the concrete subfloor 400 in a gap between the tack strip 305 and a baseboard 404 on the wall 402 .
- the anchors 166 are biased against the tack strip 305 during the stretching operation so that the frame member 120 is removably coupled to the floor area 400 .
- the head unit 220 is forced to an extended position and the carpet 320 is stretched, thus moving the carpet edge 322 toward the wall 402 .
- the anchors 166 are biased against the tack strip 305 to retain the frame member 120 in position as the head unit 220 applies a force to stretch the carpet 320 .
- the user may leave the head unit 220 in the extended position ( FIG. 14 ) so that the carpet 320 remains stretched, and the user may handle the carpet edge 322 to secure the carpet 320 to the tack strip 305 .
- the depicted web of carpet has already been trimmed to a proper length, so the portion of the carpet edge 322 directly in front of the head unit 220 may be tucked into a gap between the baseboard 404 and the concrete subfloor 400 .
- the user may lift the anchors 166 from the floor area 400 and repeat the stretching operations at an adjacent location on the floor area 400 .
- the user may employ the method depicted in FIG. 12 so that the carpet is trimmed in a single operation after all or a substantial portion of the carpet has been stretched and retained on tack strips along an expanse of a wall.
- the support member 530 depicted in FIGS. 15-16 extends between the arms 122 and 124 (arm 122 is not shown in FIGS. 15-16 ) and provides mechanical support for the frame member 120 during the stretching operation.
- the support member 530 may act as a bridge that spans between the arms 122 and 124 proximal to the front portion 128 and may include a handle bar 532 that is suitable for grasping and lifting by a user.
- the anchors 566 may comprise an arcuate or curved body portion that may provide an improved coupling between the frame member 120 and the floor area during the stretching operation.
- Each engagement member 162 and 164 may include one or more of the curved anchors 566 that extend downwardly from the engagement members 162 and 164 to temporarily couple the frame member 120 to the floor area.
- each curved anchor 566 has a body that extends downward from the engagement member 162 or 164 and curves at least partially rearward.
- Each anchor 566 include a tip portion 567 that is adapted to penetrate a web of carpet, be forced into a subfloor, be biased against tack strips, or any combination thereof.
- a user may position the engagement members 162 and 164 over a subfloor 300 and apply a downward force on the handle bar 132 to force the curved anchors 566 through the carpet 320 and into the wood subflooring 300 .
- the user may apply a downward force upon the head unit 220 to engage the carpet, which causes the adapter shaft 150 to be angularly displaced by a small amount and creates a moment 105 about the frame member 120 (as previously described, for example, in connection with FIGS. 2-3 ).
- This moment 105 combined with the curved body of the anchors 566 , may be significantly effective to further compel the anchors 566 to couple with the subflooring 300 , the tack strips 305 , or both.
- the tip portions 567 may be at least partially lodged between the tack strip 305 and the subfloor 300 such that the anchors 566 effectively secure the stretching apparatus 100 to the floor area.
- the handle bar 132 may be lifted to release the stretcher apparatus 100 from the floor area.
- the degree of curve of the anchors 566 is selected so as to balance the ability of a user to penetrate the carpet upon application of a downward force on the bridge or handle member (which generally militates in favor of a more vertical anchor), clearance between the tack strip and the wall or baseboard (which also typically militates in favor of a more vertical anchor), and the ability to set into the tack strip and/or floor upon application of a horizontal (i.e. stretching) force (which generally militates in favor of a more curved anchor).
- a horizontal (i.e. stretching) force which generally militates in favor of a more curved anchor.
- the anchors 166 may instead comprise a downwardly projecting flange, hook, rod, or channel.
- the flange may have a rearwardly projecting lip to promote engagement with the tack strip.
- Downwardly projecting hooks may likewise be configured so that the tip of the hook engages the tack strip.
- Rods may be used in lieu of the depicted pins where it is not desired that the anchors penetrate a wood subfloor or become dull upon contact with concrete subfloors.
- Channel-type anchors may be used to cover and engage both sides of the tack strips.
- the anchors maybe be advantageously configured to be removable.
- the anchors may be threadably engage with the engagement members 162 , 164 and include flatten peripheral portions to facilitate removal of the anchors with a hand tool such as a box end wrench.
- a quick-release system may be included where it is desired to permit the installer to exchange anchor types at the worksite.
- An example of such a quick-release system is a series of balls and springs in the engagement members that releasably engage detents in the pins or rods.
- the apparatus 100 may include more than two engagement
- the arm members 122 and 124 and engagement members 162 and 164 may be spaced a greater lateral distance from the head unit to facilitate installer access to the stretched region of the carpet. Wider frame spans may also permit a greater number of reciprocal stretching actuations without removal and reseating of the anchors to alleviate wrinkling or gathering of the carpet around the anchors.
- the engagement members are laterally spaced about two inches from head unit. In other embodiments, the engagement members may be spaced about 5, 10, 18, or 24 inches from the head unit.
- the support member 130 or 530 may be equipped with an ergonomically contoured handle section to facilitate grasping by a use.
- two such handles may be provided to permit a user to set the anchors in a wood subfloor by bearing down on the handles with both hands.
- Multiple handle bar sections may be provided to provide additional rigidity and/or grip points. The rigidity provided by the handle bar or bridge bar may facilitate movement of the device from one stretching location to another and promote product longevity.
- the actuation member may optionally be built into the support member or frame arms.
- the head-moving mechanism may be disposed proximate the engagement members 162 and 164 and the support member 130 may pivot relative to the frame arms 122 and 124 .
- the head-moving mechanism may actuated by grasping the handle portion 132 and pivoting the support member 130 relative to the frame arm 122 and 124 .
- simplified head units without actuation members may be used.
- Such embodiments may promote stretching effectiveness by permitting the installer to bear down on the handle/actuation member with more weight.
- the handle/actuation member in such embodiments may extend further from the frame members to increase leverage.
- the adaptor shaft 150 may also be provided with a quick-release system similar to that described above in connection with the anchors 166 or 566 .
- an installer may readily exchange head units when, for instance, a different type of carpet is to be stretched.
- the stretcher apparatus may include anchor guards to reduce the likelihood of incidental damage from the anchors while transporting and positioning the stretcher apparatus.
- the anchor guards may comprise a moldable plastic material that is shaped and configured to have a press fit over the tips of the anchors.
- the stretcher apparatus may include one anchor guard for each engagement member. Each anchor guard may be provided with holes or slots to receive the anchors such that the anchors are surrounded by the plastic material to protect against incidental damage or harm.
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Abstract
A compact carpet stretching apparatus may include a frame member, floor engagement members, and a head unit configured for use without extension poles. In one illustrative embodiment, the stretcher apparatus includes a head unit to engage a portion of a web of carpet, frame side members spaced laterally of the head unit that extend from the rear of the head unit past the front end of the head unit, and floor engaging anchors coupled to the frame side members proximal to the front portion.
Description
- The subject matter described herein relates to web tensioning apparatus and methods, and in preferred embodiments to compact and light-weight carpet stretching tools.
- When carpet is installed between opposing walls, the carpet material is often secured to the underlying floor along the perimeter of the floor area. Thin strips of wood having carpet-gripping tacks protruding upwards therefrom (known as “tack strips”) are fastened to the periphery of the floor area in order to secure the underside of the carpet to the floor. In general, the carpet is secured to the tack strips along one perimeter of the floor area, and then the carpet is stretched across the floor area so that it conforms to the surface on which it is installed. Next, the stretched carpet is secured to the tack strips along an opposite edge of the floor area. This process is repeated with the remaining unsecured edges of the carpet, until the carpet has been stretched and installed as desired. Optionally, the carpet may be more permanently secured to the floor by flattening the tacks in the tack strip using a hammer or other suitable tool.
- Carpet installers typically use a stretching tool consisting of a long multi-piece tube with a carpet-engaging head at one end of the tube and a pressure plate at the other end of the tube. A desired pole length is achieved by insertion of extension poles. The pressure plate is placed against a first wall, and the head is placed in engagement with carpet near a second, opposing wall. A lever is then actuated to extend the head toward the second wall, forcing the head away from the pressure plate. The carpet is thereby stretched in a direction away from the first wall and toward the second wall. The stretched carpet is pressed down on the tack strips near the head unit and the operation is repeated.
- Such stretching tools are typically ported to a room in pieces and assembled inside the workspace. This is due to the fact that in its assembled form, a conventional stretcher can easily exceed 20-25 feet in length. A number of extension poles sections are carried to the worksite together with the pressure plate and head units, after which the stretcher is assembled.
- The aggregate weight of such stretching apparatus often exceeds 90 pounds. Especially for installation of carpet in large rooms, a substantial number of poles are used to construct the stretching apparatus. The combined weight of the poles, the head unit and the pressure plate section usually varies from about 80 to 100 pounds.
- The weight and size of the conventional stretching apparatus are factors during transportation of the stretcher from one worksite to another. An appropriate amount of cargo space in the installer's van or truck is typically set aside for various head units, pressure plates and the set of extension poles.
- The size and girth of the conventional stretcher unit affect the ease and speed with which an installer may complete a carpet installation. During a typically installation, the carpet is stretched at lateral intervals of about 2-4 feet. For an average room, this involves moving the stretcher about 5-10 times for each wall. The speed and ease with which the stretcher can be relocated may have a significant affect on installation times.
- The size, weight, and number of component parts also affect the cost of the stretching unit. The weight of the unit affects raw material and shipping costs and the number of components generally affects design and manufacturing cost.
- The anchoring method can affect the likelihood that the workspace is damaged. In conventional systems the pressure plate is often placed against the opposing baseboard or wall in which case care should be taken not to damage the baseboard or wall during a stretching operation. If too much force is applied during the stretching operation, the pressure plate may cause cracking, indentation, or other damage to the baseboard or wall against which it is pressed.
- The flexibility of the system to work on concrete floors may also present an issue. The addition or substitution of auxiliary components may be needed to adapt a stretching system to stretch carpet over concrete subfloors. These additional components impact system cost, transportation difficulty and set-up time.
- The room size and configuration may also pose limitations. Typically carpet is stretched by anchoring the system against the opposing wall. If an expanse of carpet is to be stretched over a tack strip which does not face an opposing wall, alternate methods and/or tools may be required to complete the installation. The same may be true for rooms exceeding the combined length of extension poles on hand or the maximum recommended length of a stretching unit, beyond which the extension poles may bow.
- A compact carpet stretching apparatus may include a frame member, floor engagement members, and a head unit configured for use without extension poles. In one illustrative embodiment, the stretcher apparatus includes a head unit to engage a portion of a web of carpet, frame side members spaced laterally of the head unit that extend from the rear of the head unit past the front end of the head unit, and floor engaging anchors coupled to the frame side members proximal to the front portion.
- In another illustrative embodiment, a stretcher apparatus includes a head unit having a front side and a rear side and having one or more downwardly projecting members to engage a portion of a web of carpet. The apparatus may also include a frame member that is movably coupled to the head unit such that the head unit is operable to move in a longitudinal direction. The stretcher apparatus may further include a plurality of curved anchors to removably couple the frame member to a floor. Each of the curved anchors may have an arcuate body portion and may be coupled to the frame member such that the anchors are disposed laterally and forwardly of the head unit.
- This and other embodiments may be configured to provide one or more of the following advantages. First, the unit may be compact, light-weight, and adapted to operate without the use of extension poles. Second, the stretcher may be configured to stretch carpet without the use of a pressure plate on an opposing wall. Third, the unit may be configured to be used directly on both wood and concrete subfloors. Fourth, the unit in various embodiments may be easily repositioned between stretching operations. Fifth, the unit may optionally consist of a relatively small number of component parts, thereby reducing manufacturing cost. Sixth, certain embodiments may substantially reduce installer set-up time. Seventh, some embodiments may permit the installer to postpone trimming the carpet's edge until after all or a substantial portion of the carpet has been stretched. Some or all of these and other advantages may be provided by the stretching systems described herein.
- The details of one or more embodiments of the invention are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a portion of a stretcher apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a stretcher apparatus in a retracted position in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the stretcher apparatus ofFIG. 2 in an extended position. -
FIG. 4 is another perspective view of the stretcher apparatus ofFIG. 2 in a retracted position. -
FIG. 5 is another perspective view of the stretcher apparatus ofFIG. 4 in an extended position. -
FIG. 6 is yet another perspective view of the stretcher apparatus ofFIG. 2 in a retracted position. -
FIG. 7 is yet another perspective view of the stretcher apparatus ofFIG. 6 in an extended position. -
FIG. 8 is front view of the stretcher apparatus ofFIG. 2 in a retracted position. -
FIG. 9 is front view of the stretcher apparatus ofFIG. 8 in an extended position. -
FIG. 10 is cross-sectional side view of the stretcher apparatus ofFIG. 8 in a retracted position over a first floor area. -
FIG. 11 is cross-sectional side view of the stretcher apparatus ofFIG. 9 in an extended position over a first floor area. -
FIG. 12 is a flow diagram of an installing method in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 13 is cross-sectional side view of the stretcher apparatus ofFIG. 8 in a retracted position over a second floor area. -
FIG. 14 is cross-sectional side view of the stretcher apparatus ofFIG. 9 in an extended position over a second floor area. -
FIG. 15 is a side view of a stretcher apparatus in a retracted position in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 16 is a side view of the stretcher apparatus ofFIG. 15 in an extended position. -
FIG. 17 is a close-up side view of a portion of a stretcher apparatus in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. - Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements.
- Referring to
FIG. 1 , a stretcher apparatus includes aframe member 120 havingarms rear portion 126 and extend toward afront portion 128. Thearms front portion 128, and asupport member 130 extends between thearms support member 130 provides mechanical support for theframe member 120 during the stretching operation. In this embodiment, thesupport member 130 acts as a bridge that spans between thearms front portion 128 and may include ahandle bar 132 that is suitable for grasping by a user. - An
adapter shaft 150 extends from therear portion 126 toward thefront portion 128. A receivingend 152 operates to receive a head-moving mechanism so that a head unit is positioned at or near the front portion 128 (described in more detail in connection withFIGS. 2-3 ). Thus, theadapter shaft 150 is used to couple the head-moving mechanism to theframe member 120. In this embodiment, theadapter shaft 150 is coupled to theframe member 120 using alocking pin 154, but other suitable connecting devices may employed to couple theadapter shaft 150 to theframe member 120. Alternatively, theadapter shaft 150 may be coupled to theframe member 120 by welding or integrally forming theadapter shaft 150 with theframe member 120. Such a coupling may reduce swaying movement of the stretcher head unit during the stretching operation. - The
adapter shaft 150 includes a set ofholes 156 that are separated along the longitudinal direction extending from therear portion 126 to thefront portion 128. Theseholes 156 may be used to couple the head-moving mechanism to theadapter shaft 150 using a locking pin or another suitable connecting device (described in more detail in connection withFIGS. 2-3 ). The head-moving mechanism may be coupled to theadapter shaft 150 at various positions by inserting the locking pin indifferent holes 156. - Still referring to
FIG. 1 , twoengagement members arms front portion 128. Eachengagement member frame member 120 to the floor area. In this embodiment, eachengagement member anchors 166 may be used to temporarily couple theframe member 120 to the floor area. Theengagement members frame member 120. In one example, theengagement members frame member 120 using conventional quick-connect devices so that a user could attach different types of engagement members depending on the floor surface. In other embodiments, theengagement members arms engagement member rear portion 126 of theframe member 120 may rotate about a vertical axis relative to the engagement members. To implement this functionality,arms engagement members side arms adapter shaft 150 may be oriented at an angle relative to the normal axis of the tack strip and wall. In such embodiments, the user is able to adjust the direction of stretch relative to the wall, which improves the ability of the user to stretch out an undesirable area of carpet bunching or bubble. - Referring now to
FIGS. 2-3 , thestretcher apparatus 100 includes ahead unit 220 that can be moved in a predetermined path relative to theframe member 120. The head unit has afront side 221, abottom side 222, arear side 223, and atop side 224. Thebottom side 222 of thehead unit 220 has downwardly protruding members (not shown inFIGS. 2-3 ) that engage a portion of a web of carpet during the stretching operation. Thetop side 224 of thehead unit 220 may include a flat or cushioned surface, which provides the user with an area to apply a downward force on thehead unit 220. The application of such a downward force promotes engagement between thehead unit 220 and the web of carpet material. - In this embodiment, a head-moving
mechanism 250 provides a reciprocating motion to thehead unit 220 such that thehead unit 220 can be extended and retracted relative to theframe member 120. The head-movingmechanism 250 includes aconnection shaft 252 that mates with the receiving end 152 (FIG. 1 ) of theadapter shaft 150. A lockingpin 254 or other suitable connecting device may be used to couple theconnection shaft 252 with theadapter shaft 150. As such, theconnection shaft 252 may be coupled to theframe member 120. - In the embodiment shown in
FIGS. 2-3 , theadapter shaft 150 is angled slightly upward from the plane of the floor area. Accordingly, when the receivingend 152 receives a head-movingmechanism 250, thehead unit 220 is positioned proximal to thefront portion 128 and slightly elevated from the floor area. Thus, when thehead unit 220 is forced downward to engage the carpet, theadapter shaft 150 is angularly displaced by a small amount (in some embodiments, about 2° to 4° from the plane of the floor area), which creates a moment about theframe member 120 that compels theengagement members - Still referring to the embodiment depicted in
FIGS. 2-3 , the head-movingmechanism 250 also includes aslider link 256 to guide at least a portion of the head unit's motion path. Thehead unit 220 is movably coupled to theconnection shaft 252 by theslider link 256. The slider link 256 permits thehead unit 220 to extend toward and retract from thefront portion 128 of theframe member 120. In this embodiment, the slider link is atelescopic shaft 256 that moves in and out of theconnection shaft 252, thus providing the head unit with a reciprocating motion path. - The head-moving
mechanism 250 includes anactuation member 260 and alink 262. Theactuation member 260 is movably coupled to theconnection shaft 252 via thelink 262. Thelink 262 is rotatably engaged with theconnection shaft 252 such that it can pivot toward thefront portion 128. Thelink 262 is also rotatably engaged with theactuation member 260 so that as therear portion 266 of theactuation member 260 is moved toward therear portion 126 of theframe member 120, thelink 262 pivots toward thefront portion 128 of theframe member 120. - The
actuation member 260 may be movably coupled to thehead unit 220 either by a rotatable engagement on thetop side 224 of thehead unit 220 or by a rotatable engagement on thetelescopic shaft 256 near thehead unit 220. In the embodiment depicted inFIGS. 2-3 , thefront portion 268 of theactuation member 260 is rotatably coupled to thehead unit 220 so that the motion of thehead unit 220 may be controlled by theactuation member 260. As shown inFIG. 2 , thehead unit 220 may be retracted away from thefront portion 128 by moving therear portion 268 of theactuation member 260 away from therear portion 126 of theframe member 120. As shown inFIG. 3 , thehead unit 220 may be extended forward toward thefront portion 128 of theframe member 120 by moving therear portion 268 of theactuation member 260 toward therear portion 126 of theframe member 120. - In the embodiment illustrated in
FIGS. 2-3 , eachengagement member more anchors 166 extending downwardly. Theseanchors 166 may be forced down upon a subfloor, biased against tack strips, or press directly into the tack strips to removably couple theframe member 120 to the floor area. As shown inFIGS. 2-3 , a user may position theengagement members strips 175 and apply a downward force on thehandle bar 132 to press theanchors 166 into the wood subflooring. Moreover, the user may apply a downward force upon thehead unit 220 to engage the carpet, which causes theadapter shaft 150 to be angularly displaced by a small amount and creates a moment about theframe member 120 that compels theanchors 166 to the wood subflooring. After the stretching operation is complete, thehandle bar 132 may be lifted to release thestretcher apparatus 100 from the floor area. In this embodiment, eachengagement member anchors 166 that have substantially straight bodies. Other embodiments may include a different number of anchors, such as one, two, three, five or more. Furthermore, some embodiments may include anchors having a curved body (described in more detail, for example, in connection withFIG. 17 ). - Referring now to
FIGS. 4-5 , theengagement members head unit 220. As previously described, thehead unit 220 may be extended in a direction along a longitudinal axis using the head-movingmechanism 250. Theengagement members head unit 220 and positioned forward of the head unit'sfront side 221. In this embodiment, theengagement members longitudinal path 225, which includes the space directly in front of thehead unit 220. This configuration may provides the user with substantial access to the portion of the carpet that is directly in front of thehead unit 220, thus simplifying the task of securing that carpet portion to the tack strips. -
FIGS. 6-7 show alternative perspective views of thestretcher apparatus 100 when thehead unit 220 is in a retracted position and in an extended position relative to theframe member 120. Other types of head-moving mechanisms may be used to move thehead unit 220 in a predetermined path relative to theframe member 120. For example, the head-moving mechanism may include a hydraulic-powered cylinder that reciprocates thehead unit 220 with an extending and retracting motion, in which case the actuation member include a hydraulic pump and a lever, switch, or button to activate the cylinder. - Referring now to
FIGS. 8-9 , theengagement members head unit 220. This offset 226 reduces or eliminates interference from theengagement members head unit 220 forces the carpet edge in a longitudinal forward direction. As previously described, thehead unit 220 includes downwardly protruding members, such aspin members 228, along thebottom side 222 that may be used to engage the carpet material. When the head-movingmechanism 250 extends thehead unit 220 forward toward thefront portion 128, at least a portion of the carpet material is forced toward the spaced in front of thehead unit 220. In this embodiment, theengagement members head unit 220, so the user may easily handle the carpet edge directly in front of thehead unit 220 and secure that portion of the carpet to the tack strips. - Referring to
FIGS. 10-11 , thestretcher apparatus 100 may operate to stretch a web of carpet 320 (or a like material) over a floor area. Optionally, a padding material may be positioned over the floor area to serve as a cushion between the floor area and thecarpet 320. Atack strip 305 is coupled to the periphery of thefloor area 300 near a vertically extendingwall 302. In this embodiment, the floor area includeswood subflooring 300 to which thetack strip 305 is secured. Thetack strip 305 includes an upward extending tack or other pointed element to secure thecarpet 320 proximal to thewall 302. In many instances, it is preferable to stretch thecarpet 320 before securing it to thetack strip 305 so that the carpet satisfactorily conforms to the surface of thefloor area 300. - In the embodiment shown in
FIG. 10 , thestretcher apparatus 100 is removably coupled to thefloor area 300 by theanchors 166 of theengagement members 162 and 162 (member 164 is not shown inFIGS. 10-11 ). Theanchors 166 are pressed intowood subfloor 300 in a gap between thetack strip 305 and abaseboard 304 on thewall 302. In this configuration, theanchors 166 on theengagement member frame member 120 to thefloor area 300. - Alternately or additionally, the
anchors 166 may rest against the vertical surface oftack strip 305. During a stretching operation, thetack strip 305 would resist horizontal movement of thestretcher 100, thereby serving to anchor thestretcher 100 relative to the carpet to be stretched. - Still referring to
FIG. 10 , thestretcher apparatus 100 is positioned over thecarpet 320 and thehead unit 220 is in a retracted position. Thepin members 228 of thehead unit 220 are engaged with thecarpet 320 such that thecarpet edge 322 will be forced toward thewall 302 when thehead unit 220 is extended toward thewall 302. As previously described, when therear portion 266 of theactuation member 260 is moved toward therear portion 126 of theframe member 120, the head-movingmechanism 250 causes thehead unit 220 to extend longitudinally forward (toward the wall 302). - Referring now to
FIG. 1 , thehead unit 220 is forced to an extended position and thecarpet 320 is stretched, thus moving thecarpet edge 322 toward thewall 302. Theanchors 166 retain theframe member 120 in position as thehead unit 220 applies a force to stretch thecarpet 320. If the user decides that thecarpet 320 requires additional stretching (e.g., there is still a significant amount of slack in the carpet 320), the user may retract thehead unit 220 while leaving theanchors 166 andframe member 120 in place. Thehead unit 220 may be retracted by moving theactuation member 260 away from therear portion 126 of the frame member 120 (refer toFIG. 10 ). Thepin members 228 may briefly disengage thecarpet 320 while thehead unit 220 moves in a rearward direction relative to the carpet. However, thepin members 228 substantially maintain thecarpet 320 in the stretched state because thepin members 228 can engage thecarpet 320 if the carpet begins to move rearwardly relative to thehead unit 220. After thehead unit 220 is in a retracted position, theactuation member 260 may again be moved toward therear portion 126 of theframe member 120 to extend thehead unit 220 toward thewall 302 and stretch thecarpet 320 even further. - After the
carpet 320 has been stretched, the user may leave thehead unit 220 in the extended position (FIG. 11 ) so that thecarpet 320 remains stretched, and the user may handle thecarpet edge 322 to secure thecarpet 320 to thetack strip 305. In this embodiment, the depicted web of carpet is provided at a proper length (e.g. as by previous trimming), so the portion of thecarpet edge 322 directly in front of thehead unit 220 may be tucked into a gap between thebaseboard 304 and thewood subfloor 300. Because theengagement members head unit 220, thestretcher apparatus 100 may provide the user with substantial access to that portion of thecarpet edge 322 directly in front of thehead unit 220. After that portion of thecarpet 320 directly in front of thehead unit 220 is stretched and secured to thetack strip 305, the user may lift theanchors 166 from thefloor area 300 and repeat the stretching operations at an adjacent location on thefloor area 300. - Referring to
FIG. 12 , in some embodiments, thestretcher apparatus 100 may be used in amethod 270 so that the user trims the carpet after all or a substantial portion of the carpet has been stretched and retained on tack strips along an expanse of a wall. In such instances, thestretcher apparatus 100 may be operated to stretch a portion of a web of carpet, then moved to stretch an adjacent portion of carpet, and so forth until all or a substantial portion of the carpet has been stretched. Subsequently, the installer may trim all or a substantial part the edge portion near the tack strips in one quick step, thus preventing the need to trim individual edge portions after each stretching operation. - In one embodiment of the
carpet installation method 270, the user positions 272 thestretcher apparatus 100 over a web of carpet. The user then positions 274 theanchors 166 of theengagement members engagement members anchors 166 to penetrate the carpet. In presently preferred embodiments, theanchors 166 have a tapered end such that the carpet can be penetrated by merely applying a downward force to theengagement members anchors 166 against the subfloor, against the tack strip, or both. As previously described, this step may be performed to removably couple theanchors 166 to the floor area. The user then operates 280 the head-movingmechanism 250 to stretch a portion of the web of carpet. In some instances, the head-movingmechanism 250 may force thehead unit 220 toward the wall so as to stretch a portion of the carpet in a longitudinal direction. Next, the user secures 282 a portion of the carpet in front of thehead unit 220 to the tack strip(s). Even though the adjacent portions of carpet through which theanchors 166 have penetrated will not necessarily be moved by thehead unit 220, those adjacent portions may be stretched in subsequent operations after thestretcher apparatus 100 is lifted and repositioned (or may have been stretched and retained to the tack strip when the stretching apparatus was in a previous position). - In this embodiment of the
method 270 depicted inFIG. 12 , if the user has other, adjacent portions of the web of carpet yet to be stretched, the user may reposition 286 thestretcher apparatus 100 over the adjacent portion of the web of carpet simply by lifting the assembly by the handle and placing the assembly over an unstretched portion of the web of carpet. In presently preferred embodiments, the assembly may be ported with a single hand. Then, the user repeats the previously described operations (depicted as actions 274-282) at the new position of thestretcher apparatus 100. - If all or a substantial portion of the web of carpet has been stretched and retained by the tack strips, the user then trims 288 an edge portion of the carpet proximal to the tack strips along the length of the web of carpet. Then, the user positions 290 the trimmed edge of the web of carpet at or near a wall proximal to the tack strips. In some instances, this action may be accomplished by fitting the carpet edge into a gap between the baseboard and a subfloor (as previously described in connection with
FIGS. 10-11 ). Because the installer may trim all or a substantial part the edge portion near the tack strips in one simple action, thestretcher apparatus 100 may alleviate the need to trim individual edge portions after each stretching operation. - Referring now to
FIGS. 13-14 , thestretcher apparatus 100 may be used to stretch a web of carpet 320 (or a like material) over a different floor area, such asconcrete subflooring 400. In this embodiment, apadding material 310 is positioned over theconcrete floor area 400 to serve as a cushion between the concrete and thecarpet 320. Atack strip 305 is coupled to the periphery of thefloor area 400 near a vertically extendingwall 402. Thetack strip 305 includes an upward extending tack or other pointed element to secure thecarpet 320 proximal to thewall 402. - As shown in
FIG. 13 , thestretcher apparatus 100 is removably coupled to theconcrete floor area 400 by theanchors 166 of theengagement members 162 and 164 (member 164 is not shown inFIGS. 13-14 ). Theanchors 166 are position on theconcrete subfloor 400 in a gap between thetack strip 305 and abaseboard 404 on thewall 402. In this embodiment, theanchors 166 are biased against thetack strip 305 during the stretching operation so that theframe member 120 is removably coupled to thefloor area 400. - Referring now to
FIG. 14 , thehead unit 220 is forced to an extended position and thecarpet 320 is stretched, thus moving thecarpet edge 322 toward thewall 402. Theanchors 166 are biased against thetack strip 305 to retain theframe member 120 in position as thehead unit 220 applies a force to stretch thecarpet 320. After thecarpet 320 has been sufficiently stretched, the user may leave thehead unit 220 in the extended position (FIG. 14 ) so that thecarpet 320 remains stretched, and the user may handle thecarpet edge 322 to secure thecarpet 320 to thetack strip 305. In this embodiment, the depicted web of carpet has already been trimmed to a proper length, so the portion of thecarpet edge 322 directly in front of thehead unit 220 may be tucked into a gap between thebaseboard 404 and theconcrete subfloor 400. After that portion of thecarpet 320 directly in front of thehead unit 220 is stretched and secured to thetack strip 305, the user may lift theanchors 166 from thefloor area 400 and repeat the stretching operations at an adjacent location on thefloor area 400. Alternatively, the user may employ the method depicted inFIG. 12 so that the carpet is trimmed in a single operation after all or a substantial portion of the carpet has been stretched and retained on tack strips along an expanse of a wall. - It should be understood that the depicted amount of stretching that the
carpet 320 undergoes inFIGS. 10-11 and 13-14 is merely figurative. The actual distance a carpet material is stretched may be a greater or lesser amount, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. - Referring to
FIGS. 15-16 , in another embodiment of thestretcher apparatus 100 thesupport member 530 is disposed rearwardly relative to the support member shown in the aforementioned embodiments. In this embodiment, thesupport member 530 is disposed proximal to thefront portion 128 yet rearwardly of thehead unit 220 when thehead unit 220 is in an extended position (as perhaps best shown inFIG. 16 ). Accordingly, a user has greater access to aspace 534 between the support member 133 and awall 500, which may simplify handling and securing operations that occur after thehead unit 220 is extended to stretch the carpet. In the presently preferred embodiment, the support member is disposed between about 10 to 14 inches aft of theengagement members support member 130 described in previous embodiments, thesupport member 530 depicted inFIGS. 15-16 extends between thearms 122 and 124 (arm 122 is not shown inFIGS. 15-16 ) and provides mechanical support for theframe member 120 during the stretching operation. Thesupport member 530 may act as a bridge that spans between thearms front portion 128 and may include ahandle bar 532 that is suitable for grasping and lifting by a user. - Referring now to
FIG. 17 , theanchors 566 may comprise an arcuate or curved body portion that may provide an improved coupling between theframe member 120 and the floor area during the stretching operation. Eachengagement member curved anchors 566 that extend downwardly from theengagement members frame member 120 to the floor area. In this embodiment, eachcurved anchor 566 has a body that extends downward from theengagement member anchor 566 include atip portion 567 that is adapted to penetrate a web of carpet, be forced into a subfloor, be biased against tack strips, or any combination thereof. - As shown in
FIG. 17 , a user may position theengagement members subfloor 300 and apply a downward force on thehandle bar 132 to force thecurved anchors 566 through thecarpet 320 and into thewood subflooring 300. Before (and possibly during) extension thehead unit 220 to stretch the carpet, the user may apply a downward force upon thehead unit 220 to engage the carpet, which causes theadapter shaft 150 to be angularly displaced by a small amount and creates amoment 105 about the frame member 120 (as previously described, for example, in connection withFIGS. 2-3 ). Thismoment 105, combined with the curved body of theanchors 566, may be significantly effective to further compel theanchors 566 to couple with thesubflooring 300, the tack strips 305, or both. Thetip portions 567 may be at least partially lodged between thetack strip 305 and thesubfloor 300 such that theanchors 566 effectively secure thestretching apparatus 100 to the floor area. After the stretching operation is complete, thehandle bar 132 may be lifted to release thestretcher apparatus 100 from the floor area. - In presently preferred embodiments, the degree of curve of the
anchors 566 is selected so as to balance the ability of a user to penetrate the carpet upon application of a downward force on the bridge or handle member (which generally militates in favor of a more vertical anchor), clearance between the tack strip and the wall or baseboard (which also typically militates in favor of a more vertical anchor), and the ability to set into the tack strip and/or floor upon application of a horizontal (i.e. stretching) force (which generally militates in favor of a more curved anchor). To limit deflection, deformation, and dulling of the anchors, it is presently preferred to construct the anchors of hardened steel. - Consistent with the foregoing teaches, the
anchors 166 may instead comprise a downwardly projecting flange, hook, rod, or channel. In the case of a flange, the flange may have a rearwardly projecting lip to promote engagement with the tack strip. Downwardly projecting hooks may likewise be configured so that the tip of the hook engages the tack strip. Rods may be used in lieu of the depicted pins where it is not desired that the anchors penetrate a wood subfloor or become dull upon contact with concrete subfloors. Channel-type anchors may be used to cover and engage both sides of the tack strips. - The anchors maybe be advantageously configured to be removable. For instance, the anchors may be threadably engage with the
engagement members - In other embodiments, the
apparatus 100 may include more than two engagement -
-
members arm frame member 120 may have two, three, four or more engagement members coupled thereto. Such an embodiment can substantially increase the hold of theframe member 120 to the floor area during the stretching operation.
-
- The
arm members engagement members - Consistent with the foregoing teachings, the
frame member 120 may be hinged or flexible. A locking hinge may be provided to allow each side of the frame to move relative to one another and then be locked into fixed positions at desired times. Flexible frame members may be formed of moderate elastic modulus polymer to enhance system durability and in some embodiments reduce weight. - The
support member - The actuation member may optionally be built into the support member or frame arms. For instance, the head-moving mechanism may be disposed proximate the
engagement members support member 130 may pivot relative to theframe arms handle portion 132 and pivoting thesupport member 130 relative to theframe arm - The
adaptor shaft 150 may also be provided with a quick-release system similar to that described above in connection with theanchors - In some embodiments, the stretcher apparatus may include anchor guards to reduce the likelihood of incidental damage from the anchors while transporting and positioning the stretcher apparatus. The anchor guards may comprise a moldable plastic material that is shaped and configured to have a press fit over the tips of the anchors. In some packages, the stretcher apparatus may include one anchor guard for each engagement member. Each anchor guard may be provided with holes or slots to receive the anchors such that the anchors are surrounded by the plastic material to protect against incidental damage or harm.
- A number of embodiments of the invention have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims.
Claims (21)
1-38. (canceled)
39. A carpet stretcher apparatus, comprising:
a frame member having a rear portion fixedly joined with first and second side arms, the first side arm extending forwardly from the rear portion to a first front portion, and the second side arm extending forwardly from the rear portion to a second front portion;
a first set of anchors to removably couple the first front portion of the first side arm to a floor, and a second set of anchors to removably couple the second front portion of the second side arm to the floor; and
an adapter portion to releasably join with a stretcher head assembly such that, when the stretcher head assembly is joined with the adapter portion, the stretcher head assembly extends forwardly in a longitudinal direction from the rear portion of the frame member and the first and second sets of anchors are disposed laterally and forwardly of the stretcher head assembly.
40. The apparatus of claim 39 , wherein the rear portion of the frame member is integral with the first and second side arms.
41. The apparatus of claim 39 , wherein the first and second side arms are spaced laterally of the adapter portion.
42. The apparatus of claim 41 , wherein the first and second side arms are spaced laterally of the stretcher head assembly when the stretcher head assembly is joined with the adapter portion.
43. The apparatus of claim 39 , wherein the first set of anchors are rigidly coupled with the first side arm, and the second set of anchors are rigidly coupled with the second side arm.
44. The apparatus of claim 39 , wherein the frame member comprises a single connector to mate with the adapter portion in at a single location.
45. The apparatus of claim 39 , further comprising a support member spanning between the first and second side portions, wherein the support member is rigidly connected to the first and second side arms such that substantial downward forced can be transmitted through the support member to the anchors.
46. The apparatus of claim 39 , wherein the first set of anchors coupled to the first side arm comprises at least three anchors.
47. The apparatus of claim 39 , wherein the at least a portion of an anchor is curved.
48. The apparatus of claim 39 , further comprising at least one anchor guard adapted to substantially cover at least a portion of one or more anchors, the anchor guard comprising a moldable plastic material.
49. The apparatus of claim 39 , wherein the adapter portion extends forwardly from the rear portion at an upward angle away from the floor when the frame member is removably coupled to the floor.
50. The apparatus of claim 49 , wherein when the stretcher head assembly is joined with the adapter portion, a carpet-engaging head unit of the stretcher head assembly is disposed proximal the first and second front portions and elevated from a horizontal plane defined by the floor.
51. The apparatus of claim 50 , wherein when the carpet-engaging head unit is forced downward to engage a web of carpet, a moment is created about the frame member that compels the first and second sets of anchors toward the floor.
52. A carpet stretcher apparatus, comprising:
a frame member comprising a rear portion, a first side arm extending forwardly from the rear portion to a first front portion, and a second side arm extending forwardly from the rear portion to a second front portion;
one or more anchors to removably couple the first front portion of the first side arm to a floor, and one or more anchors to removably couple the second front portion of the second side arm to the floor; and
an adapter portion to releasably join with a stretcher head assembly, the adapter portion extending forwardly from the rear portion at an upward angle away from the floor when the frame member is removably coupled to the floor,
wherein when the stretcher head assembly is joined with the adapter portion, the stretcher head assembly extends forwardly in a longitudinal direction from the rear portion of the frame member and a carpet-engaging head unit of the stretcher head assembly is disposed proximal the first and second front portions and elevated from a horizontal plane defined by the floor.
53. The apparatus of claim 52 , wherein when the carpet-engaging head unit is forced downward to engage a web of carpet, a moment is generated about the frame member that compels the anchors toward the floor.
54. A method, comprising:
positioning a stretching apparatus over a web of carpet, the stretching apparatus including a head unit that is releasably joined with a frame member such that the head unit is operable to move in a longitudinal direction relative to the frame member, the frame member comprising a rear portion fixedly joined with first and second side arms, a plurality of anchors rigidly coupled to front portions of the first and second side arms and disposed laterally and forwardly of the head unit;
disposing the anchors against a floor or a tack strip; and
operating the stretcher apparatus to stretch at least a portion of the web of carpet.
55. The method of claim 54 , further comprising securing a portion of the web of carpet on a tack strip and repositioning the stretching apparatus over an adjacent portion of the web of carpet.
56. The method of claim 55 , wherein the stretching apparatus is repositioned over the adjacent portion of the web by lifting the stretcher apparatus from the floor prior to trimming the carpet's edge.
57. The method of claim 54 , further comprising trimming a substantial portion of an edge of the web after a substantial portion of the web has been stretched and secured to tack strips.
58. The method of claim 54 , further comprising penetrating the web of carpet with the anchors.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/608,153 US20070257242A1 (en) | 2004-10-05 | 2006-12-07 | Compact carpet stretcher |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/958,982 US7163196B2 (en) | 2004-10-05 | 2004-10-05 | Compact carpet stretcher |
US11/608,153 US20070257242A1 (en) | 2004-10-05 | 2006-12-07 | Compact carpet stretcher |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/958,982 Continuation US7163196B2 (en) | 2004-10-05 | 2004-10-05 | Compact carpet stretcher |
Publications (1)
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US20070257242A1 true US20070257242A1 (en) | 2007-11-08 |
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Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US10/958,982 Expired - Fee Related US7163196B2 (en) | 2004-10-05 | 2004-10-05 | Compact carpet stretcher |
US11/608,153 Abandoned US20070257242A1 (en) | 2004-10-05 | 2006-12-07 | Compact carpet stretcher |
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Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US10/958,982 Expired - Fee Related US7163196B2 (en) | 2004-10-05 | 2004-10-05 | Compact carpet stretcher |
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US (2) | US7163196B2 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2006041828A2 (en) |
Families Citing this family (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
AU737224B3 (en) * | 2000-11-07 | 2001-08-16 | Stenhouse Carpet Stretcher Pty Ltd | A carpet stretcher |
US20120117916A1 (en) * | 2010-05-14 | 2012-05-17 | Sixto Flores | Carpet stretching tool and method for use therefore |
CA2802742A1 (en) * | 2012-01-20 | 2013-07-20 | Beno J. Gundlach Company | Carpet installation apparatus |
US10595656B1 (en) * | 2019-05-10 | 2020-03-24 | Oscar Medina | Carpet-stretching apparatus |
US11291323B2 (en) | 2019-12-05 | 2022-04-05 | Tom Wipf | Carpet stretching apparatus |
Family Cites Families (25)
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US317296A (en) * | 1885-05-05 | Territory | ||
US388864A (en) * | 1888-09-04 | Geoege a | ||
US551411A (en) * | 1895-12-17 | Carpet-stretcher | ||
US377309A (en) * | 1888-01-31 | Carpet stretcher | ||
US292693A (en) * | 1884-01-29 | Carpet-stretcher | ||
US448992A (en) * | 1890-12-22 | 1891-03-24 | William A Pool | Carpet - stretcher |
US639718A (en) * | 1899-09-29 | 1899-12-26 | Maurice D Howe | Carpet-stretcher. |
US843743A (en) * | 1906-09-12 | 1907-02-12 | Roy Wight Giddings | Linoleum and carpet stretcher. |
US910595A (en) * | 1908-04-30 | 1909-01-26 | Milton Auston Smith | Carpet-stretcher. |
US4076213A (en) | 1977-03-04 | 1978-02-28 | Robert A. Strauss | Locking tube assembly |
US4934658A (en) | 1984-07-30 | 1990-06-19 | Marvin Berg | Locking mechanism for extendible telescoping tubular members |
US5007616A (en) | 1990-03-09 | 1991-04-16 | Scarpino Kelvin M | Carpet stretching tool |
US5183238A (en) * | 1991-01-04 | 1993-02-02 | Brad Sorensen | Carpet stretching apparatus particularly for long lengths of carpet |
US5288057A (en) * | 1991-04-08 | 1994-02-22 | Orcon Corporation | Adapter and method for power stretching carpets |
US5269576A (en) | 1992-03-24 | 1993-12-14 | Krebs Alex R | Adjustable length hallway/doorway bridge carpet stretcher anchor and method of use |
DE4439034C1 (en) * | 1994-11-02 | 1996-03-07 | Wolff Gmbh | Device for tensioning floor lining |
US5681031A (en) | 1995-06-08 | 1997-10-28 | Foley; Timothy P. | Carpet stretcher and method for stretching carpet |
US5782458A (en) * | 1997-02-19 | 1998-07-21 | Target Sales & Marketing, Inc. | Carpet stretcher with universal base |
US5938182A (en) | 1997-06-23 | 1999-08-17 | Orcon Corporation | Power carpet stretcher gauge |
US6073328A (en) | 1998-02-28 | 2000-06-13 | Hendricks; James | Carpet installation tool |
US6446893B2 (en) * | 1999-11-30 | 2002-09-10 | Daiwa Seiko, Inc. | Spinning reel for fishing |
US6491284B1 (en) * | 2000-06-14 | 2002-12-10 | Richard A. Jolly | Carpet stretching device |
US6405999B1 (en) * | 2000-11-14 | 2002-06-18 | E. I. Du Pont De Nemours And Company | Convertible stop for a floor covering stretching apparatus |
US6692048B2 (en) | 2001-12-06 | 2004-02-17 | John H. Martin | Adjustable engaging head for a carpet stretcher |
US6669174B1 (en) | 2002-11-12 | 2003-12-30 | Christopher L. Vita | Kneeless kicking tool for stretching a carpet |
-
2004
- 2004-10-05 US US10/958,982 patent/US7163196B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2005
- 2005-10-04 WO PCT/US2005/035652 patent/WO2006041828A2/en active Application Filing
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2006
- 2006-12-07 US US11/608,153 patent/US20070257242A1/en not_active Abandoned
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US7163196B2 (en) | 2007-01-16 |
WO2006041828A3 (en) | 2006-11-23 |
US20060060830A1 (en) | 2006-03-23 |
WO2006041828A2 (en) | 2006-04-20 |
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Owner name: BEHR INNOVATIONS LLC, MINNESOTA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:BEHR, JEROME P.;BEHR, TIMOTHY L.;BEHR, DAVID P.;REEL/FRAME:018824/0884;SIGNING DATES FROM 20050929 TO 20050930 |
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO PAY ISSUE FEE |