US20200332535A1 - Device for Leveling and Aligning Tiles and Method for Leveling and Aligning Tiles - Google Patents
Device for Leveling and Aligning Tiles and Method for Leveling and Aligning Tiles Download PDFInfo
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- US20200332535A1 US20200332535A1 US16/853,292 US202016853292A US2020332535A1 US 20200332535 A1 US20200332535 A1 US 20200332535A1 US 202016853292 A US202016853292 A US 202016853292A US 2020332535 A1 US2020332535 A1 US 2020332535A1
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- tile
- arm
- base
- tile leveling
- leveling device
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- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title abstract description 10
- 238000000926 separation method Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 11
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 9
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 9
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 9
- 125000006850 spacer group Chemical group 0.000 claims description 17
- 239000011440 grout Substances 0.000 description 22
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 15
- 210000001503 joint Anatomy 0.000 description 14
- 230000006835 compression Effects 0.000 description 7
- 238000007906 compression Methods 0.000 description 7
- 239000004570 mortar (masonry) Substances 0.000 description 7
- 238000004381 surface treatment Methods 0.000 description 6
- 239000000758 substrate Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000035515 penetration Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001902 propagating effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000006641 stabilisation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000011105 stabilization Methods 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
- E04F21/00—Implements for finishing work on buildings
- E04F21/0092—Separate provisional spacers used between adjacent floor or wall tiles
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
- E04F21/00—Implements for finishing work on buildings
- E04F21/18—Implements for finishing work on buildings for setting wall or ceiling slabs or plates
- E04F21/1838—Implements for finishing work on buildings for setting wall or ceiling slabs or plates for setting a plurality of similar elements
- E04F21/1877—Leveling devices
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
- E04F21/00—Implements for finishing work on buildings
- E04F21/20—Implements for finishing work on buildings for laying flooring
- E04F21/22—Implements for finishing work on buildings for laying flooring of single elements, e.g. flooring cramps ; flexible webs
Definitions
- This invention relates, in general, to tile installation and, in particular to a device for leveling and aligning tiles and properly spacing tiles during the installation thereof.
- Tile has become a popular decorative and functional article for use in floors, walls, countertops, and the like. Both professional tile installers and do-it-yourselfers spend a great deal of time aligning and leveling tiles as they are being placed on a substrate's surface. Proper alignment and leveling of each tile is important for a number of reasons. Improper installation can cause the need for tiles to be replaced in order to prevent a spacing error from propagating across the substrate, aesthetic reasons, and in some instances, safety concerns. A need exists for a device for leveling and aligning tiles and properly spacing tiles.
- a device for leveling and aligning tiles and a method for leveling and aligning tiles are disclosed.
- a body defines a viewing opening.
- a base is orthogonally coupled to the body with a base to body coupling including a frangible breakaway section.
- the base and body are integral prior to frangible separation and the frangible breakaway section, upon breaking, frangibly separates the body from the base.
- Respective arms are moveably connected to the body opposite the base. Each of the arms may move from an open position to a closed position where the arm releasably mates against one or more tiles.
- FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of a leveling device according to the teachings presented herein;
- FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the leveling device presented in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 3 is a rear elevation view of the leveling device presented in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 4 is a left-side elevation view of the leveling device presented in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 5 is a bottom plan view of the leveling device presented in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 6A is a rear elevation view showing an installation of a first tile using the leveling device in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 6B is a rear elevation view showing an installation of a second tile using the leveling device in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 6C is a rear elevation view showing an installation of a third tile using the leveling device in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 7 is a top plan view showing installation of the two tiles using the leveling device as shown in FIG. 5 ;
- FIG. 8 is a top plan views showing an installation of three tiles using the leveling device in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 9 is a top plan view showing an installation of four tiles using the leveling device in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view of another embodiment of a leveling device according to the teachings presented herein;
- FIG. 11 is a top plan view of the leveling device presented in FIG. 10 ;
- FIG. 12 is a rear elevation view of the leveling device presented in FIG. 10 ;
- FIG. 13 is a left-side elevation view of the leveling device presented in FIG. 10 ;
- FIG. 14 is a bottom plan view of the leveling device presented in FIG. 10 ;
- FIG. 15 is a rear elevation view showing an installation of a tile using the leveling device in FIG. 10 ;
- FIG. 16 is a bottom perspective view of a still further embodiment of a leveling device according to the teachings presented herein;
- FIG. 17 is a top plan view of the leveling device presented in FIG. 16 ;
- FIG. 18 is a rear elevation view of the leveling device presented in FIG. 16 ;
- FIG. 19 is a left-side elevation view of the leveling device presented in FIG. 16 ;
- FIG. 20 is a bottom plan view of the leveling device presented in FIG. 16 ;
- FIG. 21 is a rear elevation view showing an installation of a tile using the leveling device in FIG. 16 ;
- FIG. 22 is a rear elevation view showing an installation of another tile using the leveling device in FIG. 16 .
- the tile leveling device 10 is utilized to align and level two, three, or four tiles, for example.
- the tile leveling device 10 includes a body 12 defining a viewing opening 14 , which may provide a view through the body 12 to the other side of the tile joint for proper joint alignment.
- a base 16 may be orthogonally coupled to the body 12 and the base 16 extends to the front F of the body 12 and the base 16 extends to the rear R of the body 12 .
- a base-to-body coupling 18 includes a frangible breakaway section 20 .
- the body 12 and the base 16 are integral prior to frangible separation at the frangible breakaway section 20 and, upon breaking, frangibly separating the body 12 from the base 16 .
- the frangible breakaway section 20 may be a frangible section of the body of reduced thickness that would promote the breakaway, and thus, separation of the body 12 .
- the frangible breakaway section 20 may include one or more frangible breakaway section portions.
- the body 12 may have two legs that form the base-to-body coupling 18 .
- frangible breakaway section 20 may include one or more discrete subsections, including multiple discrete frangible breakaway subsections, that form the frangible breakaway section 20 .
- a notch 22 may be formed at the base 16 and extends to the front F of the body 12 and the base 16 .
- a notch 24 may be formed at the base 16 and extends to the rear R of the body 12 and the base 16 .
- a spacing pad may be integral with the body 12 on the front F of the body 12 and may vary in thickness depending on the application.
- the spacing pad contributes to furnishing a combination of vertical leveling and joint spacing within a single product.
- the spacing pad which may be more generally a spacer, is configured to position the tiles a predetermined distance apart depending on the application.
- a spacing pad may be integral with the body 12 on the rear R of the body 12 and may vary in thickness depending on the application.
- grout joint spacers 34 , 36 may be integral with the body 12 proximate the base 16 on the front F of the body 12 and may vary in thickness depending on the application.
- the grout joint spacers 34 , 36 contribute to desired spacing within the grout joint and easy release therefrom.
- the grout joint spacers 34 , 36 may be triangular in shape with the point of the triangle toward the base 16 .
- the number of grout joint spacers 34 , 36 may also vary.
- grout joint spacers 38 , 40 may be integral with the body 12 proximate the base 16 on the rear R of the body 12 .
- the base 16 may have any shape, including circular shapes, rectangular shapes, triangular shapes, or typographical shapes, like the letter “H” or “I.” In one embodiment, the base 16 is an I-shaped base. Spaced and parallel strip members 50 , 52 provide four points of contact 54 , 56 , 58 , 60 for lift of tiles, while still establishing space for maximum mortar penetration between the spaced and parallel strip members 50 , 52 . As shown, the spaced and parallel strip members 50 , 52 are substantially flat.
- the spaced and parallel strip members 50 , 52 may have an arcuate form in an embodiment wherein the spaced and parallel strip members 50 , 52 have a curve under the four points of contact 54 , 56 , 58 , 60 . That is, the spaced and parallel strip members 50 , 52 may define convex curvatures 62 , 64 that are flexible and compressible for tile installation during a leveling and alignment of a tile.
- the convex curvatures 62 , 64 in this embodiment may contribute to tiles of varying thicknesses may be leveled and aligned.
- four tiles having four varying thicknesses may be leveled and aligned by way of the flexibility and compressibility of the convex curvatures 62 , 64 of the spaced and parallel strip members 50 , 52 .
- the spaced and parallel strip members 50 , 52 may be substantially flat, include arcuate portions on the top of the spaced and parallel strips members 50 , 52 , or include arcuate portions on the top of the spaced and parallel strip members 50 , 52 in addition to the aforementioned convex curvatures 62 , 64 .
- four tiles having varying thicknesses may also be leveled and aligned by way of the flexibility and compressibility existing in the spaced and parallel strip members 50 , 52 , in addition to any benefits offered by arcuate portions or features of the alternate embodiments.
- Channels 70 , 72 may be located in the base 16 and, in one embodiment, the channels 70 , 72 are perpendicular to the spaced and parallel strip members 50 , 52 .
- An arm 80 is pivotally connected to the body 12 opposite the base 16 by a central connection member 120 .
- the arm 80 moves, and may pivot, from an open position to a closed position, as depicted by arrow 82 in FIG. 6A , where the arm 80 releasably mates against a tile T 1A .
- a lateral member 84 extends laterally from the body 12 .
- the lateral member 84 is jointed to a generally L-shaped movable member 86 at a hinge point 88 , which may provide a controlled point of bend or a region of enhanced flexibility, for example.
- the generally L-shaped movable member 86 includes a lengthwise stem 89 having a terminal member 90 projecting therefrom. The intersection of the lengthwise stem 89 and the terminal member 90 may be a point of enhanced flexibility, capable of compression. It should be appreciated that although an L-shaped movable member is described, the movable member may have other shapes.
- a downward facing tab 92 is secured to the terminal member 90 .
- the downward facing tab 92 may releasably mate with a grout line G ( FIGS. 7, 8, 9 ) between two tiles.
- a surface treatment 94 is applied to the lengthwise stem 89 to improve grip in one embodiment.
- An arm 100 is pivotally connected to the body 12 opposite the base 16 by the central connection member 120 , which in some embodiments may be part of the body 12 .
- the arm 100 moves, by way of a hinge connection or pivot, for example, from an open position to a closed position, as depicted by arrow 102 , where the arm 100 releasably mates against the tile T 1 ( FIGS. 7-9 ).
- a lateral member 104 extends laterally from the body 12 .
- the lateral member 104 is jointed to a generally L-shaped movable member 106 at a hinge point 108 , which may provide a controlled point of bend.
- the L-shaped movable member 106 includes a lengthwise stem 109 having a terminal member 110 projecting therefrom.
- a downward facing tab 112 is secured to the terminal member 110 .
- the downward facing tab 112 may releasably mate with a grout line G ( FIGS. 7, 8, 9 ) between two tiles.
- a surface treatment 114 is applied to the lengthwise stem 109 to improve grip in one embodiment.
- a central connection member 120 couples the arm 80 to the arm 100 .
- the design and function of the arms 80 , 100 may vary by application. By way of example and not by way of limitation, additional bend points or pivot points may be included in the arms 80 , 100 as well as the central connection member 120 . Further, the arms 80 , 100 may be provided with lengths sufficient to furnish tension forces and compression forces as described in more detail in FIG. 6A through FIG. 6C .
- the tile leveling device 10 may be utilized to level tile T 1A , tile T 1B , or tile Tic, which are tiles of varying thicknesses.
- the tile leveling device 10 may accommodate tiles having different thicknesses.
- the body 12 provides structural support while the arms 80 , 100 secure the tiles by cantilevering from the body 12 with the use of tension forces F t having a horizontal component providing pressure and compression forces F c having a vertical component. With the use of the tension forces F t and compression forces F c , in combination with an angle of contact ⁇ between the arm or the arm 100 , a locking mechanism is not required.
- the compression forces F c associated with the arms 80 , 100 keep the tile leveling device 10 in position.
- the arms 80 , 100 may extend outwardly and horizontally from the body 12 and then downwardly against the tile T 1A .
- the arms 80 , 100 may extend outwardly and upwardly from the body 12 and then downwardly against the respective tile T 1B , T 1C .
- the outward and upward form of the arms 80 , 100 is shown by the non-linear, convex form from the arm 80 to the central connection member 120 to the arm 100 .
- the arms 80 , 100 of the tile leveling device 10 have a range of tile leveling positions, where the arms contact tile, including a tile leveling position with the arms 80 , 100 extending horizontally from the body 12 ( FIG. 6A ) and a tile leveling position with the arms 80 , 100 extending upward from the body 12 ( FIGS. 6A, 6B ).
- tile leveling positions with the arms 80 , 100 extending horizontally from the body minimal force is applied to achieve the tile leveling position with the amount force increasing as the arms 80 , 100 are extended upwardly from the body 12 .
- the tile leveling device 10 may include a tile leveling position with the arms 80 , 100 extending immediately downwardly from the body 12 to define a concave convex form from the arm 80 to the central connection member 120 to the arm 100 (please see FIG. 15 and FIG. 21 ). Therefore, the arms 80 , 100 in a tile leveling position may extend horizontally from the body 12 then downwardly toward tile; upwardly from the body 12 then downwardly toward tile; or, downwardly from the body 12 toward tile.
- the tile leveling device 10 may be utilized with two tiles T 1 , T 2 ( FIG. 7 ), three tiles T 1 , T 2 , T 3 ( FIG. 8 ) or four tiles T 1 , T 2 , T 3 , T 4 ( FIG. 9 ) for installation on a substrate, subsurface, or other surface, which is indicated by the letter S having mortar M ( FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C ).
- Grout lines G are located between each of the adjacent tiles.
- the tile T 1 is positioned over the front portions of the spaced and parallel strip members 50 , 52 .
- the tile T 1 has a lower surface opposite an upper surface, wherein the lower surface faces the spaced and parallel strip members 50 , 52 and the subsurface S.
- the grout line G is the space between the two tiles T 1 , T 2 .
- the upper surface is farther from the spaced and parallel strip members 50 , 52 than the lower surface and faces away from the spaced and parallel strip members 50 , 52 .
- the second tile T 2 is similarly situated over the rear portions of the spaced and parallel strip members 50 , 52 and includes a lower surface and an upper surface.
- the tile T 1 is over the base 16 to the front F of the body 12 .
- the tile T 1 has a lower surface opposite an upper surface.
- the tile T 1 has contact with mortar M at the notch 22 , wherein the lower surface faces the base 16 and the upper surface is farther from the base 16 than the lower surface.
- the tile T 2 is over the base 16 at the rear R of the body 12 .
- the tile T 2 has similar surfaces to the tile T 1 with mortar M at the notch 24 .
- the frangible breakaway section 20 may be located between the lower surface and the upper surface of the tile T 1 and similarly positioned with respect to the tile T 2 .
- an individual may place the tile leveling device 10 on the subsurface S and then position the mortar M and desired number of tiles.
- Each of the arms 80 , 100 may be squeezed toward the body 12 such that the arms 80 , 100 releasably engage against the tiles.
- the proper tile spacing may be maintained.
- a single tile leveling device 10 may be utilized to install, align, and level between two, three, and four tiles. More particularly, using one leveling device for a corner improves efficiency and minimizes the number of leveling devices required to complete a job.
- the tile leveling device 150 is utilized to align and level two, three, or four tiles, for example.
- the tile leveling device 150 includes a body 152 defining a viewing opening 154 , which may provide a view through the body 152 to the other side of the tile joint for proper joint alignment.
- a base 156 is orthogonally coupled to the body 152 and the base 156 extends to the front F of the body 152 and the base 156 extends to the rear R of the body 152 .
- a base-to-body coupling 158 includes a frangible breakaway section 160 .
- the body 152 and the base 156 are integral prior to frangible separation as the frangible breakaway section 160 , upon breaking, frangibly separates the body 152 from the base 156 .
- the frangible breakaway section 160 may be a frangible section of the body 152 of reduced thickness that would promote the breakaway, and thus, separation of the body 152 .
- a notch 162 is formed at the base 156 and extends to the front F of the body 152 and the base 156 .
- a notch 164 is formed at the base 156 and extends to the rear R of the body 152 and the base 156 .
- the notches 162 , 164 may be an isthmus forming a narrow strip of the base 156 to permit mortar M on either side, forming a tile-mortar-subfloor link at the isthmus. It should be appreciated that although the base 156 is depicted with the notches 162 , 164 , bases without notches are within the teachings presented herein.
- grout joint spacers 166 may be integral with the body 152 proximate the base 156 on the front F of the body 152 and may vary in thickness depending on the application. The grout joint spacers 166 contribute to desired spacing within the grout joint and easy release therefrom. Similarly, grout joint spacers 168 may be integral with the body 152 proximate the base 156 on the rear R of the body 152 .
- the base 156 may have any shape, including circular shapes, rectangular shapes, triangular shapes, or typographical shapes, like the letter “H” or “I.” In one embodiment, the base 156 is an I-shaped base.
- An arm 170 is pivotally connected to the body 152 by a central connection member 220 opposite the base 156 .
- the arm 170 moves by pivoting from an open position to a closed position, as depicted by arrow 172 , where the arm 170 releasably mates against a tile Ti by way of tension and compression forces.
- a lateral member 174 extends laterally from the body 152 .
- the lateral member 174 may be joined to a generally L-shaped movable member 176 at a hinge point 178 , which may provide a controlled point of bend or a region of enhanced flexibility, for example.
- the L-shaped movable member 176 includes a lengthwise stem 179 having a terminal member 180 projecting therefrom.
- a downward facing tab 182 is secured to the terminal member 180 .
- the downward facing tab 182 may releasably mate with a grout line G between two tiles.
- a surface treatment 194 is applied to the lengthwise stem 179 to improve grip in one
- An arm 200 is pivotally connected to the body 152 by the central connection member 220 opposite the base 156 and pivots between an open position and a closed position, as shown by arrow 202 .
- a lateral member 204 extends laterally from the body 152 and may be joined to a generally L-shaped movable member 206 at a hinge point 208 , which may provide a controlled point of bend.
- the L-shaped movable member 206 includes a lengthwise stem 209 having a terminal member 210 projecting therefrom.
- a downward facing tab 212 is secured to the terminal member 210 .
- the downward facing tab 212 may releasably mate with a grout line G between two tiles.
- a surface treatment 214 is applied to the lengthwise stem 209 to improve grip in one embodiment.
- the central connection member 220 couples the arm 170 to the arm 200 .
- the central connection member 220 may include a support dowel 221 positioned perpendicular to the body 152 in order to provide increased stabilization during flexing of the arms 170 , 200 .
- the arms 170 , 200 may provide a flat wing design with offset wing hinges that have controlled bend points to start the turn downward.
- the tile leveling device 250 is utilized to align and level two, three, or four tiles, for example.
- the tile leveling device 250 includes a body 252 defining a viewing opening 254 , which may provide a view through the body 252 to the other side of the tile joint for proper joint alignment.
- a base 256 is orthogonally coupled to the body 252 and the base 256 extends to the front F of the body 252 and the base 256 extends to the rear R of the body 252 .
- a base-to-body coupling 258 includes a frangible breakaway section 260 .
- the body 252 and the base 256 are integral prior to frangible separation as the frangible breakaway section 260 , upon breaking, frangibly separates the body 252 from the base 256 .
- the frangible breakaway section 260 may be a frangible section of the body 252 of reduced thickness that would promote the breakaway, and thus, separation of the body 252 .
- a notch 262 is formed at the base 256 and extends to the front F of the body 252 and the base 256 .
- a notch 264 is formed at the base 256 and extends to the rear R of the body 252 and the base 256 .
- the combination of the notches 262 , 264 provide a majority of an area of tile-to-mortar-to-subfloor contact for the leveling device 250 within the bounds of the base 256 .
- the base 256 is depicted with the notches 262 , 264 , bases without notches are within the teachings presented herein. It should be further appreciated that other methods of creating more mortar contact between tiles and subfloor are within the teachings of the present invention.
- the base 256 may include any combination of base elements such as holes, openings, notches, grooves, and the like to provide the appropriate amount of tile-to-mortar-to-subfloor contact.
- grout joint spacers 266 , 268 may be integral with the body 252 proximate the base 256 on the front F of the body 252 and may vary in thickness depending on the application.
- the grout joint spacers 266 , 268 contribute to desired spacing within the grout joint and easy release therefrom.
- grout joint spacers 267 , 269 may be integral with the body 252 proximate the base 256 on the rear R of the body 252 .
- the base 256 may have any shape, including circular shapes, rectangular shapes, triangular shapes, or typographical shapes, like the letter “H” or “I.” In one embodiment, the base 256 is an I-shaped base.
- An arm 270 is moveably connected, by a hinge, pivot connection, living hinge or otherwise, for example, to the body 252 by a central connection member 320 opposite the base 256 .
- the arm 270 pivots from an open position to a closed position, as depicted by arrow 272 , where the arm 270 releasably mates against a tile T 1 .
- the arm 270 may have various flexure points, such as a flexure bearing member 274 and a flexure bearing member 276 .
- Each of the flexure bearing members 274 , 276 may provide a controlled point of bend or a region of enhanced flexibility, for example.
- the arm 270 may have one or more regions of enhanced flexibility such as region 278 . That is, the arm 270 may be a flexible member pivoting in a flexure manner.
- the arm 270 may include a lengthwise stem 279 having a terminal member 280 projecting therefrom.
- a tab 282 is secured to the terminal member 280 , such that the tab 282 extends from a flush end 283 of the arm 270 with the tab 282 having a smaller width than the flush end 283 .
- the terminal member 280 may have a width W 1 with the tab 282 having a width W 2 , with the width W 2 being less than the width W 1 .
- the tab 282 may releasably mate, such as with a friction fit created by downward pressure and the aforementioned compression F c , against one or more tiles, or with a grout line G between two tiles.
- a surface treatment 294 is applied to the lengthwise stem 279 to improve grip in one embodiment.
- An arm 300 is pivotally connected, by a living hinge or otherwise, to the body 252 by the central connection member 320 opposite the base 256 and pivots between an open position and a closed position, as shown by arrow 302 .
- the arm 300 may have various flexure points, such as a flexure bearing member 304 and a flexure bearing member 306 .
- Each of the flexure bearing members 304 , 306 may provide a controlled point of bend or a region of enhanced flexibility, for example. That is, the arm 300 may be a flexible member pivoting in a flexure manner. It should be appreciated that the arm 300 may have one or more regions of enhanced flexibility such as region 308 .
- the arm 300 may include a lengthwise stem 309 having a terminal member 310 projecting therefrom.
- a tab 312 is secured to the terminal member 310 and, by extension, secured to the arm 300 , such that the tab 312 extends from a flush end 313 of the arm 300 with the tab 312 having a smaller width than the flush end 313 .
- the terminal member 310 may have a width W 3 with the tab 312 having a width W 4 , with the width W 4 being less than the width W 3 .
- the tab 312 may releasably mate, such as with a friction fit, against one or more tiles, or with a grout line G between two tiles.
- a surface treatment 314 is applied to the lengthwise stem 309 to improve grip in one embodiment.
- the central connection member 320 couples the arm 270 to the arm 300 .
- the central connection member 320 includes a non-linear form 322 .
- the arms 270 , 300 may provide a flat wing design with offset wing hinges that have controlled bend points to start the turn downward.
- the tile leveling device 250 is utilized to align and level two, three, or four tiles, for example. It should be appreciated that the length of the arms 270 , 300 may vary depending on the application. As shown, in this application with respect to tile T 5 , the arm 270 is moveably connected to the body 252 opposite the base 256 by the central connection member 320 .
- the arm 270 due in part to its length and flexibility, includes a range of tile leveling positions where the arm 270 contacts tile T 5 , and the range of tile leveling positions include a tile leveling position having the arm 270 extending upwardly, as shown by the arrow labeled UP, from the body 252 then downwardly, as shown by the arrow DOWN, toward the tile T 5 to contact the tile T 5 .
- the arm 300 is moveably connected to the body 252 opposite the base 256 by the central connection member 320 .
- the arm 300 due in part to its length and flexibility, includes a range of tile leveling positions where the arm 300 contacts the tile T 5 , and the range of tile leveling positions include a tile leveling position having the arm 300 extending upwardly then downwardly toward the tile T 5 to contact the tile T 5 .
- the portion of the central connection member 320 and the arms 270 , 300 which extend upwardly are flexible to provide a controlled bend, which may be convex or concave.
- the viewing opening 254 provides a window to see the other side of the tile leveling device 250 to assure proper alignment.
- the regions 278 , 308 provide hinge points where the respective arms 270 , 300 may bend and extend downward to the tile T 5 .
- At areas proximate the terminal member 280 , 310 may have enhanced flexibility to provide greater ease of use.
- the tabs 282 , 312 may be spacers that stabilize and prevent slipping of the arms 270 , 300 .
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Abstract
Description
- This application claims priority from co-pending U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 62/836,927 entitled “Device for Leveling and Aligning Tiles and Method for Leveling and Aligning Tiles” filed on Apr. 22, 2019, in the names of Clinton D. Bunch and Joshua A. Bunch; which is hereby incorporated by reference, in entirety, for all purposes.
- This invention relates, in general, to tile installation and, in particular to a device for leveling and aligning tiles and properly spacing tiles during the installation thereof.
- Tile has become a popular decorative and functional article for use in floors, walls, countertops, and the like. Both professional tile installers and do-it-yourselfers spend a great deal of time aligning and leveling tiles as they are being placed on a substrate's surface. Proper alignment and leveling of each tile is important for a number of reasons. Improper installation can cause the need for tiles to be replaced in order to prevent a spacing error from propagating across the substrate, aesthetic reasons, and in some instances, safety concerns. A need exists for a device for leveling and aligning tiles and properly spacing tiles.
- It would be advantageous to achieve a device for leveling and aligning tiles and properly spacing tiles. It would also be desirable to enable a mechanical-based solution that furnishes an inexpensive tool that assists professional tile installers and do-it-yourselfers. To better address one or more of these concerns, in one aspect of the invention, a device for leveling and aligning tiles and a method for leveling and aligning tiles are disclosed. In one embodiment of the tile leveling device, a body defines a viewing opening. A base is orthogonally coupled to the body with a base to body coupling including a frangible breakaway section. The base and body are integral prior to frangible separation and the frangible breakaway section, upon breaking, frangibly separates the body from the base. Respective arms are moveably connected to the body opposite the base. Each of the arms may move from an open position to a closed position where the arm releasably mates against one or more tiles. These and other aspects of the invention will be apparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter.
- For a more complete understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention, reference is now made to the detailed description of the invention along with the accompanying figures in which corresponding numerals in the different figures refer to corresponding parts and in which:
-
FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of a leveling device according to the teachings presented herein; -
FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the leveling device presented inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 is a rear elevation view of the leveling device presented inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 4 is a left-side elevation view of the leveling device presented inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 5 is a bottom plan view of the leveling device presented inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 6A is a rear elevation view showing an installation of a first tile using the leveling device inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 6B is a rear elevation view showing an installation of a second tile using the leveling device inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 6C is a rear elevation view showing an installation of a third tile using the leveling device inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 7 is a top plan view showing installation of the two tiles using the leveling device as shown inFIG. 5 ; -
FIG. 8 is a top plan views showing an installation of three tiles using the leveling device inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 9 is a top plan view showing an installation of four tiles using the leveling device inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view of another embodiment of a leveling device according to the teachings presented herein; -
FIG. 11 is a top plan view of the leveling device presented inFIG. 10 ; -
FIG. 12 is a rear elevation view of the leveling device presented inFIG. 10 ; -
FIG. 13 is a left-side elevation view of the leveling device presented inFIG. 10 ; -
FIG. 14 is a bottom plan view of the leveling device presented inFIG. 10 ; -
FIG. 15 is a rear elevation view showing an installation of a tile using the leveling device inFIG. 10 ; -
FIG. 16 is a bottom perspective view of a still further embodiment of a leveling device according to the teachings presented herein; -
FIG. 17 is a top plan view of the leveling device presented inFIG. 16 ; -
FIG. 18 is a rear elevation view of the leveling device presented inFIG. 16 ; -
FIG. 19 is a left-side elevation view of the leveling device presented inFIG. 16 ; -
FIG. 20 is a bottom plan view of the leveling device presented inFIG. 16 ; -
FIG. 21 is a rear elevation view showing an installation of a tile using the leveling device inFIG. 16 ; and -
FIG. 22 is a rear elevation view showing an installation of another tile using the leveling device inFIG. 16 . - While the making and using of various embodiments of the present invention are discussed in detail below, it should be appreciated that the present invention provides many applicable inventive concepts which can be embodied in a wide variety of specific contexts. The specific embodiments discussed herein are merely illustrative of specific ways to make and use the invention, and do not delimit the scope of the present invention.
- Referring initially to
FIG. 1 throughFIG. 5 , therein is depicted one embodiment of a tile leveling device that is schematically illustrated and generally designated 10. Thetile leveling device 10 is utilized to align and level two, three, or four tiles, for example. Thetile leveling device 10 includes abody 12 defining a viewing opening 14, which may provide a view through thebody 12 to the other side of the tile joint for proper joint alignment. Abase 16 may be orthogonally coupled to thebody 12 and thebase 16 extends to the front F of thebody 12 and thebase 16 extends to the rear R of thebody 12. A base-to-body coupling 18 includes afrangible breakaway section 20. Thebody 12 and thebase 16 are integral prior to frangible separation at thefrangible breakaway section 20 and, upon breaking, frangibly separating thebody 12 from thebase 16. Thefrangible breakaway section 20 may be a frangible section of the body of reduced thickness that would promote the breakaway, and thus, separation of thebody 12. Thefrangible breakaway section 20 may include one or more frangible breakaway section portions. By way of example, thebody 12 may have two legs that form the base-to-body coupling 18. AlthoughFIG. 1 throughFIG. 5 show a single, continuousfrangible breakaway section 20, as being discussed, it should be appreciated that thefrangible breakaway section 20 may include one or more discrete subsections, including multiple discrete frangible breakaway subsections, that form thefrangible breakaway section 20. Anotch 22 may be formed at thebase 16 and extends to the front F of thebody 12 and thebase 16. Similarly, anotch 24 may be formed at thebase 16 and extends to the rear R of thebody 12 and thebase 16. - In one embodiment, a spacing pad (not shown) may be integral with the
body 12 on the front F of thebody 12 and may vary in thickness depending on the application. The spacing pad contributes to furnishing a combination of vertical leveling and joint spacing within a single product. Moreover, the spacing pad, which may be more generally a spacer, is configured to position the tiles a predetermined distance apart depending on the application. Similarly, a spacing pad (not shown) may be integral with thebody 12 on the rear R of thebody 12 and may vary in thickness depending on the application. - In one embodiment, grout
joint spacers body 12 proximate the base 16 on the front F of thebody 12 and may vary in thickness depending on the application. The groutjoint spacers joint spacers base 16. The number of groutjoint spacers joint spacers body 12 proximate the base 16 on the rear R of thebody 12. - The base 16 may have any shape, including circular shapes, rectangular shapes, triangular shapes, or typographical shapes, like the letter “H” or “I.” In one embodiment, the
base 16 is an I-shaped base. Spaced andparallel strip members contact parallel strip members parallel strip members - It should be appreciated, however, that the spaced and
parallel strip members parallel strip members contact parallel strip members convex curvatures convex curvatures convex curvatures parallel strip members - It should be understood that in alternative embodiments, the spaced and
parallel strip members parallel strips members parallel strip members convex curvatures parallel strip members -
Channels base 16 and, in one embodiment, thechannels parallel strip members arm 80 is pivotally connected to thebody 12 opposite thebase 16 by acentral connection member 120. In one implementation, thearm 80 moves, and may pivot, from an open position to a closed position, as depicted byarrow 82 inFIG. 6A , where thearm 80 releasably mates against a tile T1A. In the illustrated embodiment ofFIG. 1 throughFIG. 5 , alateral member 84 extends laterally from thebody 12. Thelateral member 84 is jointed to a generally L-shapedmovable member 86 at ahinge point 88, which may provide a controlled point of bend or a region of enhanced flexibility, for example. The generally L-shapedmovable member 86 includes alengthwise stem 89 having aterminal member 90 projecting therefrom. The intersection of thelengthwise stem 89 and theterminal member 90 may be a point of enhanced flexibility, capable of compression. It should be appreciated that although an L-shaped movable member is described, the movable member may have other shapes. A downward facingtab 92 is secured to theterminal member 90. The downward facingtab 92 may releasably mate with a grout line G (FIGS. 7, 8, 9 ) between two tiles. Asurface treatment 94 is applied to thelengthwise stem 89 to improve grip in one embodiment. - An
arm 100 is pivotally connected to thebody 12 opposite thebase 16 by thecentral connection member 120, which in some embodiments may be part of thebody 12. In one implementation, thearm 100 moves, by way of a hinge connection or pivot, for example, from an open position to a closed position, as depicted byarrow 102, where thearm 100 releasably mates against the tile T1 (FIGS. 7-9 ). In the illustrated embodiment, alateral member 104 extends laterally from thebody 12. Thelateral member 104 is jointed to a generally L-shapedmovable member 106 at ahinge point 108, which may provide a controlled point of bend. The L-shapedmovable member 106 includes alengthwise stem 109 having aterminal member 110 projecting therefrom. A downward facingtab 112 is secured to theterminal member 110. The downward facingtab 112 may releasably mate with a grout line G (FIGS. 7, 8, 9 ) between two tiles. Asurface treatment 114 is applied to thelengthwise stem 109 to improve grip in one embodiment. Acentral connection member 120 couples thearm 80 to thearm 100. It should be appreciated that the design and function of thearms arms central connection member 120. Further, thearms FIG. 6A throughFIG. 6C . - Referring now to
FIG. 6A throughFIG. 6C , wherein thetile leveling device 10 may be utilized to level tile T1A, tile T1B, or tile Tic, which are tiles of varying thicknesses. In operation, thetile leveling device 10 may accommodate tiles having different thicknesses. In some embodiments, thebody 12 provides structural support while thearms body 12 with the use of tension forces Ft having a horizontal component providing pressure and compression forces Fc having a vertical component. With the use of the tension forces Ft and compression forces Fc, in combination with an angle of contact α between the arm or thearm 100, a locking mechanism is not required. Rather, the compression forces Fc associated with thearms tile leveling device 10 in position. As shown inFIG. 6A , in some embodiments, depending on the thickness of the tile, thearms body 12 and then downwardly against the tile T1A. As shown inFIG. 6B andFIG. 6C , thearms body 12 and then downwardly against the respective tile T1B, T1C. The outward and upward form of thearms arm 80 to thecentral connection member 120 to thearm 100. As shown inFIG. 6A throughFIG. 6C , thearms tile leveling device 10 have a range of tile leveling positions, where the arms contact tile, including a tile leveling position with thearms FIG. 6A ) and a tile leveling position with thearms FIGS. 6A, 6B ). In tile leveling positions with thearms arms body 12. - Additionally, in particular embodiments, the
tile leveling device 10 may include a tile leveling position with thearms body 12 to define a concave convex form from thearm 80 to thecentral connection member 120 to the arm 100 (please seeFIG. 15 andFIG. 21 ). Therefore, thearms body 12 then downwardly toward tile; upwardly from thebody 12 then downwardly toward tile; or, downwardly from thebody 12 toward tile. - Referring now to
FIG. 7 throughFIG. 9 , thetile leveling device 10 may be utilized with two tiles T1, T2 (FIG. 7 ), three tiles T1, T2, T3 (FIG. 8 ) or four tiles T1, T2, T3, T4 (FIG. 9 ) for installation on a substrate, subsurface, or other surface, which is indicated by the letter S having mortar M (FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C ). Grout lines G are located between each of the adjacent tiles. By way of example, in the two-tile installation, the tile T1 is positioned over the front portions of the spaced andparallel strip members parallel strip members parallel strip members parallel strip members parallel strip members - As shown, the tile T1 is over the base 16 to the front F of the
body 12. As mentioned, the tile T1 has a lower surface opposite an upper surface. The tile T1 has contact with mortar M at thenotch 22, wherein the lower surface faces thebase 16 and the upper surface is farther from the base 16 than the lower surface. Similarly, the tile T2 is over the base 16 at the rear R of thebody 12. The tile T2 has similar surfaces to the tile T1 with mortar M at thenotch 24. Thefrangible breakaway section 20 may be located between the lower surface and the upper surface of the tile T1 and similarly positioned with respect to the tile T2. - In operation, an individual may place the
tile leveling device 10 on the subsurface S and then position the mortar M and desired number of tiles. Each of thearms body 12 such that thearms tile leveling device 10 may be utilized to install, align, and level between two, three, and four tiles. More particularly, using one leveling device for a corner improves efficiency and minimizes the number of leveling devices required to complete a job. - Referring now to
FIG. 10 throughFIG. 15 , therein is depicted another embodiment of a tile leveling device that is schematically illustrated and generally designated 150. Thetile leveling device 150 is utilized to align and level two, three, or four tiles, for example. Thetile leveling device 150 includes abody 152 defining aviewing opening 154, which may provide a view through thebody 152 to the other side of the tile joint for proper joint alignment. Abase 156 is orthogonally coupled to thebody 152 and thebase 156 extends to the front F of thebody 152 and thebase 156 extends to the rear R of thebody 152. A base-to-body coupling 158 includes afrangible breakaway section 160. Thebody 152 and the base 156 are integral prior to frangible separation as thefrangible breakaway section 160, upon breaking, frangibly separates thebody 152 from thebase 156. Thefrangible breakaway section 160 may be a frangible section of thebody 152 of reduced thickness that would promote the breakaway, and thus, separation of thebody 152. Anotch 162 is formed at thebase 156 and extends to the front F of thebody 152 and thebase 156. Similarly, anotch 164 is formed at thebase 156 and extends to the rear R of thebody 152 and thebase 156. In one embodiment, thenotches base 156 is depicted with thenotches - In one embodiment, grout
joint spacers 166 may be integral with thebody 152 proximate the base 156 on the front F of thebody 152 and may vary in thickness depending on the application. The groutjoint spacers 166 contribute to desired spacing within the grout joint and easy release therefrom. Similarly, groutjoint spacers 168 may be integral with thebody 152 proximate the base 156 on the rear R of thebody 152. The base 156 may have any shape, including circular shapes, rectangular shapes, triangular shapes, or typographical shapes, like the letter “H” or “I.” In one embodiment, thebase 156 is an I-shaped base. - An
arm 170 is pivotally connected to thebody 152 by acentral connection member 220 opposite thebase 156. In one implementation, thearm 170 moves by pivoting from an open position to a closed position, as depicted byarrow 172, where thearm 170 releasably mates against a tile Ti by way of tension and compression forces. In the illustrated embodiment, alateral member 174 extends laterally from thebody 152. Thelateral member 174 may be joined to a generally L-shapedmovable member 176 at ahinge point 178, which may provide a controlled point of bend or a region of enhanced flexibility, for example. The L-shapedmovable member 176 includes alengthwise stem 179 having aterminal member 180 projecting therefrom. A downward facingtab 182 is secured to theterminal member 180. The downward facingtab 182 may releasably mate with a grout line G between two tiles. Asurface treatment 194 is applied to thelengthwise stem 179 to improve grip in one embodiment. - An
arm 200 is pivotally connected to thebody 152 by thecentral connection member 220 opposite thebase 156 and pivots between an open position and a closed position, as shown byarrow 202. In the illustrated embodiment, alateral member 204 extends laterally from thebody 152 and may be joined to a generally L-shapedmovable member 206 at ahinge point 208, which may provide a controlled point of bend. The L-shapedmovable member 206 includes alengthwise stem 209 having aterminal member 210 projecting therefrom. A downward facingtab 212 is secured to theterminal member 210. The downward facingtab 212 may releasably mate with a grout line G between two tiles. Asurface treatment 214 is applied to thelengthwise stem 209 to improve grip in one embodiment. As mentioned, thecentral connection member 220 couples thearm 170 to thearm 200. As best seen inFIGS. 10 and 12 , thecentral connection member 220 may include asupport dowel 221 positioned perpendicular to thebody 152 in order to provide increased stabilization during flexing of thearms arms - Referring now to
FIG. 16 throughFIG. 21 , therein is depicted a still further embodiment of a tile leveling device that is schematically illustrated and generally designated 250. Thetile leveling device 250 is utilized to align and level two, three, or four tiles, for example. Thetile leveling device 250 includes abody 252 defining aviewing opening 254, which may provide a view through thebody 252 to the other side of the tile joint for proper joint alignment. Abase 256 is orthogonally coupled to thebody 252 and thebase 256 extends to the front F of thebody 252 and thebase 256 extends to the rear R of thebody 252. A base-to-body coupling 258 includes afrangible breakaway section 260. Thebody 252 and the base 256 are integral prior to frangible separation as thefrangible breakaway section 260, upon breaking, frangibly separates thebody 252 from thebase 256. Thefrangible breakaway section 260 may be a frangible section of thebody 252 of reduced thickness that would promote the breakaway, and thus, separation of thebody 252. Anotch 262 is formed at thebase 256 and extends to the front F of thebody 252 and thebase 256. Similarly, anotch 264 is formed at thebase 256 and extends to the rear R of thebody 252 and thebase 256. In one embodiment, the combination of thenotches leveling device 250 within the bounds of thebase 256. It should be appreciated that although thebase 256 is depicted with thenotches base 256 may include any combination of base elements such as holes, openings, notches, grooves, and the like to provide the appropriate amount of tile-to-mortar-to-subfloor contact. - In one embodiment, grout
joint spacers 266, 268 may be integral with thebody 252 proximate the base 256 on the front F of thebody 252 and may vary in thickness depending on the application. The groutjoint spacers 266, 268 contribute to desired spacing within the grout joint and easy release therefrom. Similarly, groutjoint spacers body 252 proximate the base 256 on the rear R of thebody 252. The base 256 may have any shape, including circular shapes, rectangular shapes, triangular shapes, or typographical shapes, like the letter “H” or “I.” In one embodiment, thebase 256 is an I-shaped base. - An
arm 270 is moveably connected, by a hinge, pivot connection, living hinge or otherwise, for example, to thebody 252 by acentral connection member 320 opposite thebase 256. In one implementation, thearm 270 pivots from an open position to a closed position, as depicted byarrow 272, where thearm 270 releasably mates against a tile T1. In the illustrated embodiment, thearm 270 may have various flexure points, such as aflexure bearing member 274 and aflexure bearing member 276. Each of theflexure bearing members arm 270 may have one or more regions of enhanced flexibility such asregion 278. That is, thearm 270 may be a flexible member pivoting in a flexure manner. Thearm 270 may include alengthwise stem 279 having aterminal member 280 projecting therefrom. Atab 282 is secured to theterminal member 280, such that thetab 282 extends from aflush end 283 of thearm 270 with thetab 282 having a smaller width than theflush end 283. Theterminal member 280 may have a width W1 with thetab 282 having a width W2, with the width W2 being less than the width W1. Thetab 282 may releasably mate, such as with a friction fit created by downward pressure and the aforementioned compression Fc, against one or more tiles, or with a grout line G between two tiles. Asurface treatment 294 is applied to thelengthwise stem 279 to improve grip in one embodiment. - An
arm 300 is pivotally connected, by a living hinge or otherwise, to thebody 252 by thecentral connection member 320 opposite thebase 256 and pivots between an open position and a closed position, as shown byarrow 302. In the illustrated embodiment, thearm 300 may have various flexure points, such as aflexure bearing member 304 and aflexure bearing member 306. Each of theflexure bearing members arm 300 may be a flexible member pivoting in a flexure manner. It should be appreciated that thearm 300 may have one or more regions of enhanced flexibility such asregion 308. Thearm 300 may include alengthwise stem 309 having aterminal member 310 projecting therefrom. Atab 312 is secured to theterminal member 310 and, by extension, secured to thearm 300, such that thetab 312 extends from aflush end 313 of thearm 300 with thetab 312 having a smaller width than theflush end 313. Theterminal member 310 may have a width W3 with thetab 312 having a width W4, with the width W4 being less than the width W3. Thetab 312 may releasably mate, such as with a friction fit, against one or more tiles, or with a grout line G between two tiles. Asurface treatment 314 is applied to thelengthwise stem 309 to improve grip in one embodiment. As mentioned, thecentral connection member 320 couples thearm 270 to thearm 300. In one implementation, thecentral connection member 320 includes anon-linear form 322. Further, as shown, thearms - Referring now to
FIG. 22 , thetile leveling device 250 is utilized to align and level two, three, or four tiles, for example. It should be appreciated that the length of thearms arm 270 is moveably connected to thebody 252 opposite thebase 256 by thecentral connection member 320. Thearm 270, due in part to its length and flexibility, includes a range of tile leveling positions where thearm 270 contacts tile T5, and the range of tile leveling positions include a tile leveling position having thearm 270 extending upwardly, as shown by the arrow labeled UP, from thebody 252 then downwardly, as shown by the arrow DOWN, toward the tile T5 to contact the tile T5. Similarly, thearm 300 is moveably connected to thebody 252 opposite thebase 256 by thecentral connection member 320. Thearm 300, due in part to its length and flexibility, includes a range of tile leveling positions where thearm 300 contacts the tile T5, and the range of tile leveling positions include a tile leveling position having thearm 300 extending upwardly then downwardly toward the tile T5 to contact the tile T5. - In some embodiments, the portion of the
central connection member 320 and thearms viewing opening 254 provides a window to see the other side of thetile leveling device 250 to assure proper alignment. Theregions respective arms terminal member tabs arms - The order of execution or performance of the methods and techniques illustrated and described herein is not essential, unless otherwise specified. That is, elements of the methods and techniques may be performed in any order, unless otherwise specified, and that the methods may include more or less elements than those disclosed herein. For example, it is contemplated that executing or performing a particular element before, contemporaneously with, or after another element are all possible sequences of execution.
- While this invention has been described with reference to illustrative embodiments, this description is not intended to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications and combinations of the illustrative embodiments as well as other embodiments of the invention, will be apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description. It is, therefore, intended that the appended claims encompass any such modifications or embodiments.
Claims (20)
Priority Applications (6)
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US16/853,292 US10822813B1 (en) | 2019-04-22 | 2020-04-20 | Device for leveling and aligning tiles and method for leveling and aligning tiles |
ES20170706T ES2902964T3 (en) | 2019-04-22 | 2020-04-21 | Tile leveling device |
EP20170706.4A EP3730721B1 (en) | 2019-04-22 | 2020-04-21 | Device for leveling tiles |
CN202010321685.5A CN111827636A (en) | 2019-04-22 | 2020-04-22 | Device for aligning and aligning tiles and method for aligning and aligning tiles |
US17/086,681 US11401721B2 (en) | 2019-04-22 | 2020-11-02 | Device for leveling and aligning tiles and method for leveling and aligning tiles |
US17/814,309 US11976476B2 (en) | 2019-04-22 | 2022-07-22 | Device for leveling and aligning tiles and method for leveling and aligning tiles |
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US16/853,292 US10822813B1 (en) | 2019-04-22 | 2020-04-20 | Device for leveling and aligning tiles and method for leveling and aligning tiles |
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US17/814,309 Active US11976476B2 (en) | 2019-04-22 | 2022-07-22 | Device for leveling and aligning tiles and method for leveling and aligning tiles |
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US10822813B1 (en) | 2019-04-22 | 2020-11-03 | Clinton D. Bunch | Device for leveling and aligning tiles and method for leveling and aligning tiles |
US11105102B2 (en) * | 2019-11-05 | 2021-08-31 | Clinton D. Bunch | Leveling clip and tile leveling device for use of same |
US11840852B1 (en) | 2022-05-25 | 2023-12-12 | Dtm Innovations Llc | Tile-setting lippage control |
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- 2020-04-21 ES ES20170706T patent/ES2902964T3/en active Active
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CN111827636A (en) | 2020-10-27 |
US20210047844A1 (en) | 2021-02-18 |
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US11401721B2 (en) | 2022-08-02 |
US20220356719A1 (en) | 2022-11-10 |
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US11976476B2 (en) | 2024-05-07 |
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