DESC:FIELD OF INVENTION:
The present invention relates to profiles used in the laying of cladding tiles. The present invention is a judicious combination of a novel construction of tile trim and a method for installation of the same which can be used to cover the angle gap, protect corners of tiles and provide a smooth finish.

BACKGROUND AND PRIOR ART:
When tiles are exposed in corners, they are prone to getting chipped with abrasion over time. The terminating ends of tiles when left open can also cause bruising on human skin if it accidentally comes in touch with the open tile while passing by. Tile trims also called as corner beads protect the tile edges from any physical impact at the edges.

Tiles are brittle in nature. They are bound to crack or chip upon impact. When corner tiles get damaged, long after the project is completed, replacing them is undesirable as this gets the site under development again and builds additional cost due to procurement of material and labour.

Typical beads/tile trims are L shaped beads which are braced on top of the tiles only with the help of adhesives. A drawback of the said L beads/tile trims is that they do not use any fasteners. They consist of a unidirectional flange and are not anchored into place, and hence are easily displaced.

Typical tile trims have a soft construction. Typically the trim is open on one side, which allows the tile being placed on that side to slip into the trim. This weakens the tile trim and reduces rigidity. During installation of the typical tile trims additional care needs to be taken while aligning the tiles so that they do not sink into the grout that secures them to the wall. This makes the process more labour intensive and time consuming. Furthermore, as the typical tile trim is fixed into the tile only on one side without any anchoring, it gets support from one side only and is likely to come off easily from the other side.
The typical tile trim also has perforations on its neck. This makes the trim weaker and more susceptible to bend and crack while installing. The less use of material on the trim due to holes in the stem, reduces the strength to hold up the anchor.
A sturdier imperforated trim which retains strength even after installation is needed.

The typical tile trims have sharp edges and hence hurt and penetrate the human skin during sudden impact/contact.

The materials used by the disclosures made in the prior art are mostly steel, iron, aluminium and GI (Galvanised Iron). These are prone to corrosion and abrasion.

There is a need for tile trims which are fastened into the building materials by flanges which do not allow tiles to be easily displaced, which toughens the entire installation and braces it better for direct impact.

There is also a need for a tile trim wherein the head of the trim has a closed construction which is supported by tiles on both sides and becomes a part of the tile composition.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION:
The object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages/shortcomings of the devices known in the prior art by providing a tile trims such that can be used wherever tiles create a 90-degree edge, such as wall corners and steps in staircases and is suitable for interior as well as exterior wall corners.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a tile trim valve which are suitable for providing a super smooth finish.

Yet object of the present invention is to provide a tile trim which protects tiles from direct impact.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a tile trim with surfaces that dissipate the force of impact and thus do not penetrate human skin.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a tile trim which strengthens the tile layer as a whole unit.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a tile trim which is economical and environment friendly by not only making a product which is recyclable but also reduces the use of VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds evaporate into the air and are harmful to the health of the occupants. VOCs are a primary contributors to smog generation.) and has mechanical properties that make it lighter, providing the ease of transportation and handling which reduces cost and makes it more accessible to all classes of the construction industry.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS:

Figure 1 is a cross sectional view of the present invention 6, showing the present invention 6 which is a tile trim comprising of the diamond head 1, the diamond head 1 further comprising of surfaces 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, neck 2 further comprising of flanges 3a and 3b which are stemming from the neck 2.

Figure 2 is a sectional view of the wall 7 showing an example of the present invention 6 which is a tile trim wherein the present invention 6 is wedged between the tiles 4a and 4b, which are secured to the wall 7, with the help of mortar layer 5 embedding the tile trim 6 in its preferred place.

Figure 3 is an isometric view of the present invention 6, showing its continuous and long profile comprising of the diamond head 1, the diamond head 1 further comprising of surfaces 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, neck 2 further comprising of flanges 3a and 3b which are stemming from the neck 2. The preferred embodiment of present invention 6 can be placed in corners horizontally and vertically.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:
The present invention relates to a tile trim comprising of a head, a neck which connects the head to flanges, the head is configured to receive correspondingly shaped and correspondingly deep tiles such that the neck fastens the tile trim to mortar, anchoring the flanges into the mortar behind tiles.

The present invention further relates to a tile trim as mentioned above where the head of the tile trim is of a closed polygonal shape.

The present invention further relates to a tile trim as mentioned above where the head of the tile trim is of a diamond shape.

The present invention further relates to a tile trim as mentioned above where the surfaces of the head of the tile trim are chamfered.

The present invention further relates to a tile trim as mentioned above where the head of the tile trim is hollow for accommodating a filler material.

The present invention also relates to a method of installation of a tile trim comprising of a head, a neck which connects the head to flanges, the head is configured to receive correspondingly shaped and correspondingly deep tiles such that the neck fastens the tile trim to mortar, anchoring the flanges into the mortar behind tiles comprising of the following steps:

(a) Applying the tiles fully on the first side of the wall with mortar and complete the tiling throughout the height of the surface of the wall till the terminating edge where the tile trim is to be placed.

(b) Fixing the tile trim and aligning it to the terminating edge with grout filling/adhesive till one of the head surfaces is flushed with the completed tiles on the first side of wall.

(c) Wedging the neck and flanges of the tile trim into the mortar over the wall such that one of the head surfaces and tile surface of the first side of the wall are in one plane.

(d) Applying mortar on the second side of the wall to provide a base for tiles and adhere the tiles to the tile trim with grout filling/adhesive such that one of the head surfaces is flushed with the completed tiles on the second side of the wall and one of the head surfaces and tile surface of the second side of wall are in one plane.

(e) Finishing the installation by completing the laying of tiles on the second side of the wall while fixing any gaps with grout.

The present invention also relates to a method of installation of a tile trim as mentioned above wherein the material of the tile trim is selected from a group of low volatile organic compounds.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION:
The invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein same reference numerals are used to denote the same parts. However, it is made clear that the description only illustrates the invention and in no way limits the same.

The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to the bibliographical meanings but are merely used by the inventor to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the invention. Accordingly, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of exemplary embodiments of the present invention are provided for illustration purpose only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

In the accompanying drawings:

Figure 1 shows a preferred embodiment of the present invention 6 which is a tile trim. Figure 1 shows the diamond head 1 of the present invention 6 constructed by joining five imperforated surfaces 1a, 1,b ,1c, 1d, 1e together. All surfaces 1a, 1b ,1c, 1d, 1e are not of same widths. The two widest surfaces 1a and 1b of equal lengths stem directly out of the slender neck 2. Figure 2 shows that these surfaces 1a and 1b are wide enough to accommodate/receive various tile shapes and tile depths along with the grout/mortar layer 5, in such a way that the tiles 4a and 4b sit flush with surfaces 1c and 1d, thus creating a smooth finish. Surfaces 1c and 1d are chamfered with surface 1e in such a way that an obtuse angle is created. This angle makes the trim 6 more resistant to damage and protects other objects and people in case of a collision. The force of the impact is dissipated across the chamfered surfaces 1c, 1d and 1e and towards the tiles 4a and 4b, since they are placed on the two adjacent surfaces 1a and 1b of the diamond head 1.

The neck 2 as shown in Figure 2 is a stalk that connects the two flanges 3a and 3b to the diamond head 1. The neck 2 is designed to be of a specific length that would reach at least halfway into the depth of the mortar 5 to anchor itself and thus also allow the mortar 5 to fit between the diamond head 1 and flanges 3a and 3b. It also provides the required space for the flanges 3a and 3b to reach behind the tiles 4a and 4b so that their anchor is strengthened by the tiles 4a and 4b.

The two flanges 3a and 3b as shown in Figure 2 are constructed such that the present invention 6 is anchored into the mortar 5. The flanges 3a and 3b branch out from the neck 2 making a right angle with each other. The flanges 3a and 3b enable the present invention 6 to be rooted within the grout 5 which is laid behind the tiles 4a and 4b for the tiles 4a and 4b to be adhered to the wall 7. The present invention 6 thereby being rigidly stuck inside the mortar 5 throughout the height of the wall 7, the flanges 3a and 3b impart strength to the present invention 6. The flanges 3a and 3b would make it impossible to forcefully remove the present invention 6 as a whole. Figure 3 shows the continuous and long profile of the preferred embodiment of present invention 6. The present invention 6 can be placed in corners horizontally and vertically throughout the length/ height of the wall 7.

When the tiles are being installed, the present invention is wedged between the junction, where both the tiled surfaces meet. The present invention sits flat on the exposed tile surfaces. The fastening of the present invention 6 to the mortar 5 through both flanges 3a and 3b running below the tiles 4a and 5b, as well as laterally with the tiles 4a and 4b by an adhesive/grout, toughens the entire installation and braces it better for direct impact.

In the preferred embodiment of the present invention 6 it is made with Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) with uniform overall thickness. In the preferred embodiment of the present all surfaces are kept plain without any grooves or undulations for a clean exterior look and smooth finish however the same may be altered as per application. PVC is effective in protecting the environment, in terms of low greenhouse gas emissions and conservation of resources and energy. Vinyl products are not only recyclable but they also meet low VOC requirements in green building standards (Volatile Organic Compounds evaporate into the air and are harmful to the health of the occupants. VOCs are primary contributors to smog generation.). PVC is used in this product due to its physical and mechanical properties, durability and ease of handling and transport because of its light weight. Its cost efficiency also makes it more accessible for all classes of the construction industry.

A preferred method for installation of the present invention with corner tiles is described below :-

Step 1: Apply the tiles 4a or 4b fully on any of the two sides of wall 7 (hereinafter referred to as the first side) with the help of mortar 5. Complete the tiling (applying the tiles) throughout the height of the surface of the wall 7 till the terminating edge where tile trim 6 of the present invention is to be placed. The terminating edge must be uniform with all tile endings such that the tiles are flushed in a single/straight line and the tile surface is in one plane. The final depth of the tile surface to wall may be 10.5mm.

Step 2: Fix the tile trim 6 of the present invention and align it to the exposed tile part at the terminating edge neatly with the help of a 1 mm grout filling/adhesive. The head surfaces 1a or 1b must be flushed with the completed tiles throughout the height of the surface of the wall 7 on the first side.

Step 3: The neck 3 and flanges 3a and 3b of the tile trim 6 shall be wedged into the mortar 5 over the wall 7, to enable the head surface 1c or 1d of the tile trim 6 and surface of the tiles 4a or 4b to be in one plane. The tile trim must be placed straight throughout the height of the surface of the wall 7 and must not be bending in any section. All the tile trims 6 placed throughout the height of the surface of the wall 7 shall be placed such that the head surface 1c or 1d of all the tile trims 6 are one plane with the surface of all the tiles applied throughout the height of the surface of the wall 7.

Step 4: Once the tile trim 6 of the present invention is placed perfectly and examined, apply mortar 5 on the second side of wall 7 to provide a base for tiles. Adhere the tiles 4a or 4b to the tile trim 6 with the help of 1mm grout filling/adhesive in such a manner that every tile sits flushed in a single/straight line and the surface of the tiles 4a or 4b are in one plane with the head surface 1c or 1d of the tile trim 6 and creates a smooth seamless finish.

Step 5: Finish the installation by completing the tiling (laying/applying of tiles) on the second side with the help of mortar 5, throughout the height of the surface of the wall 7 while fixing any gaps with grout.

The method of installation of the tile trim 6 of the present invention is same as mentioned above for its use between risers (Vertical tiles) and treads (horizontal tiles) of steps in Staircases.

The present invention is a judicious combination of a novel construction of the tile trim as described in the present invention 6 and a method for installation of the same in order to arrive at its advantages properties which are mentioned below.

In a preferred embodiment according to the present invention, the neck 2 has two flanges 3a and 3b, the diamond head 1 has five surfaces 1a, 1b ,1c, 1d, 1e.
In another embodiment of the present invention the neck 2 has more than 2 flanges.
In another embodiment of the present invention the diamond head 1 may consist of more than five surfaces.
In yet another embodiment of the present invention the head may be of a different polygonal shape depending on the terminating edge of the wall.
EXAMPLE:
In a preferable embodiment of the present invention, the surfaces 1a and 1b of the diamond head 1 are wide enough to accommodate/receive tile depths up to 10mm.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the surfaces 1a and 1b of the diamond head 1 are wide enough to accommodate any tiles.

In a preferable embodiment of the present invention, the neck 2 is constructed to be of a length that would reach into the mortar 5 at such a depth that can impart proper anchoring to the tile trim.

In a preferable embodiment of the present invention, three surfaces 1c, 1d and 1e of the diamond head 1 are chamfered to resist damage and dissipate an impact.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention with a different polygonal shape as head, more than three surfaces of the polygonal head are chamfered to resist damage and dissipate an impact.

In a preferable embodiment of the method disclosed along with the present invention, the present invention is installed on the edge of a wall.

In another embodiment of the method disclosed along with the present invention, the present invention may be installed on the edge of steps in staircases.

ADVANTAGES:

1. The diamond head packs the open ends of the tiles, and the flanges are stuck behind the tiles, which makes it impossible for the tile trim as disclosed in the present invention to be dislodged or for the tiles to be exposed to fractures.

2. The diamond head also provides an aesthetic appeal along with the grip provided under the surface.

3. The present invention can be made in various colours. This maintains a seamless transition on edges without disrupting design value of the tiles.

4. The present invention is noncorrosive and does not get deformed over time.

5. In the present invention, the diamond head braces tiles on both sides. Thus, the tiles and the trim reinforce each other’s strength.

6. The head of the present invention is a closed polygon which is of a stable and rigid shape that provides more strength.

7. The head of the present invention is hollow and can accommodate a filler material such as silicon or rubber as per the requirement in specific sites of construction, to add to the structural integrity.

8. The flanges on the neck of the present invention create a unique anchoring in both directions throughout the length of the wall.

9. The present invention is constructed to be solid with increased structural rigidity. Its imperforation helps its slender and long form to maintain its straight shape during application. Perforation (Series of holes) are also cost intensive. This product saves on the expenses of making perforations as opposed to other products in the market.

,CLAIMS:We Claim:

1. A tile trim [6] comprising of
a head [1]
a neck [2] connecting the head [1] to flanges [3a and 3b]
characterized in that the head [1] is configured to receive correspondingly shaped and correspondingly deep tiles [4a and 4b]
such that the neck [2] fastens the tile trim [6] to mortar [5] anchoring the flanges [3a and 3b] into the mortar [5] behind tiles [4a and 4b]

2. A tile trim as claimed in claim 1 wherein the head of the tile trim is of a closed polygonal shape.

3. A tile trim [6] as claimed in claim 1 wherein the head [1] of the tile trim is of a diamond shape.

4. A tile trim [6] as claimed in claims 1 to 3 wherein the surfaces of the head of the tile trim are chamfered.

5. A tile trim [6] as claimed in claims 1 to 3 wherein the head of the tile trim is hollow for accommodating a filler material.

6. A method of installation of a tile trim [6] comprising of
a head [1]
a neck [2] connecting the head [1] to flanges [3a and 3b]
characterized in that the head [1] is configured to receive correspondingly shaped and correspondingly deep tiles [4a and 4b]
such that the neck [2] fastens the tile trim [6] to mortar [5] anchoring the flanges [3a and 3b] into the mortar [5] behind tiles [4a and 4b]
comprising of the following steps:

(a) Apply the tiles [4a] fully on the first side of the wall [7] with mortar [5] and complete the tiling throughout the height of the surface of the wall [7] till the terminating edge where the tile trim [6] is to be placed.

(b) Fix the tile trim [6] and align it to the terminating edge with grout filling/adhesive till the head surface [1b] is flushed with the completed tiles on the first side of wall [7].

(c) Wedge the neck [2] and flanges [3a and 3b] of the tile trim [6] into the mortar [5] over the wall [7], such that the head surface [1c] and tile surface of the first side of wall [7] are in one plane.

(d) Apply mortar [5] on the second side of wall [7] to provide a base for tiles [4b] and adhere the tiles [4b] to the tile trim [6] with grout filling/adhesive such that the head surface [1a] is flushed with the completed tiles on the second side of wall [7] and the head surface [1d] and tile surface of the second side of wall [7] are in one plane.

(e) Finish the installation by completing the laying of tiles [4b]on the second side while fixing any gaps with grout.

7. A method of installation of a tile trim [6] as claimed in claim 6 wherein the material of the tile trim [6] is selected from a group of low volatile organic compounds.