Patent Description:
More particularly, the present invention relates to a supporting device for laying tiles, which can be used at sharp edges between two tiles.

As is known, various levelling spacer devices are known in the field of supporting devices for laying tiles, configured to space two or more adjacent tiles by a predetermined distance (called joint) and to ensure that the exposed surfaces thereof are coplanar.

There are, for example, various types of levelling devices which differ essentially according to the pusher element, including wedge levelling spacer devices, screw levelling spacer devices, ring nut levelling spacer devices and ratchet levelling spacer devices.

A need felt in the sector of laying tiles, whether they are used for floor and/or step coverings or for (vertical) wall coverings, is that of improving the relative arrangement of the tiles that constitute a sharp edge, i.e. that they are arranged tilted between each other, for example squared.

In fact, it has been observed that inaccuracies, even minimal ones, in the laying of tiles at a sharp edge are difficult to correct or to avoid during the laying phase and remain particularly visible, as they occur in points that are easy for the human eye to identify.

An object of the present invention is to solve these and other needs of the prior art, with a simple, rational and low-cost solution.

A known device for lying tiles at an inner edge is known from the embodiment of <FIG> of document D2: <CIT> or form the embodiment of <FIG> of D1:<CIT>.

A known device for lying tiles at an outer (sharp) edge is known from the embodiment of <FIG> of document D2: <CIT> or form the embodiment of <FIG> of D1:<CIT>.

In particular, it is an object of the present invention to facilitate the laying operations of adjacent tiles that constitute a sharp edge between them, and to ensure and/or enable the regularity and/or homogeneity of said sharp edge both between the tiles and along the entire length thereof (for the entire development thereof), in a manner coordinated with the rest of the tiled surface.

Within this scope, an object of the present invention is to match the edge ends of the tiles which constitute a sharp edge between them and/or to precisely and repeatably determine the joint between them.

These objects are achieved by the features of the invention set forth in the independent claim. The dependent claims outline preferred and/or particularly advantageous aspects of the invention.

The invention, in particular, makes available a supporting device for laying tiles comprising:.

Thanks to this solution, it is possible to facilitate the laying operations of adjacent tiles that constitute a sharp edge between them, and to ensure and/or enable the regularity and/or homogeneity of said sharp edge both between the tiles and along the entire length thereof (for the entire development thereof), in a manner coordinated with the rest of the tiled surface.

In particular, thanks to this device, it is possible to match the edge ends of the tiles which constitute a sharp edge between them and/or to precisely and repeatably determine the joint between them.

For example, the internal dihedral angle formed by the flaps may be a (non-zero) angle lower than <NUM>°, preferably ranging from <NUM>° to <NUM>°, even more preferably ranging from <NUM>° to <NUM>° (with a tolerance of ± <NUM>°).

In some applications, the dihedral angle can be substantially equal to a right angle (i.e. it is equal to <NUM>° ± <NUM>°), when the flaps are in an unperturbed position, i.e. when no thrust force (other than gravity) is acting on them.

According to a further aspect of the invention, both flaps can be tilted (and not coplanar) with respect to the separator element by an angle (strictly lower than <NUM>°, preferably lower than <NUM>°, as described above), which can be the same for both flaps or different between the flaps.

According to a further aspect of the invention, the separator element can rise along a direction parallel to a plane bisecting the dihedral angle and orthogonal to a vertex edge of the dihedral angle.

Preferably, the flaps may be at least partially flexible, for example elastically, and/or rotatably coupled to the separator element at a hinge axis (imaginary or real) parallel to or coincident with a vertex edge of the dihedral angle formed therefrom.

In practice, the dihedral angle formed between the flaps can be variable, for example within a certain range of variability of ± <NUM>°, preferably ± <NUM>°, with respect to an opening value ranging from <NUM>° to <NUM>°.

In this way, the flaps can be adapted to the real inclination of the wall surfaces forming the sharp edge that are to be covered with the tiles.

Preferably, the pusher element may be movably associated to the separator element, at least approaching from the base along a movement axis laying on a plane bisecting the dihedral angle and orthogonal to a vertex edge of the dihedral angle.

Advantageously, each of the flaps comprises one internal surface with respect to the dihedral angle and one opposite external surface to the dihedral angle that is substantially parallel to the internal surface of the same flap, the separator element comprises a base end joined at the base peak edge wherein the external surfaces of the flaps converge.

Furthermore, at least a portion of the separator element is connected to the base in a frangible manner, by a pre-established fracture line or section.

According to the invention, the device comprises a washer provided with a pass-through opening configured to be fitted on the separator element, so as to be interposed between the pusher element and the base.

The washer comprises one first surface directed towards the pusher element and one second surface directed towards the base, wherein the second surface comprises two support planes arranged at opposite parts with respect to the pass-through opening (e.g. diametrically opposite with respect to the pass-through axis of the pass-through opening), wherein the support planes are tilted between each other and/or tiltable and are configured to form an additional dihedral angle lower than the straight angle (in use, directed towards the base).

For example, this additional internal dihedral angle formed by the support planes may be a (non-zero) angle lower than <NUM>°, preferably ranging from <NUM>° to <NUM>°, even more preferably ranging from <NUM>° to <NUM>° (with a tolerance of ± <NUM>°).

Preferably, this additional dihedral angle may be substantially equal to a right angle (i.e. it is equal to <NUM>° ± <NUM>°) when the support planes are in an unperturbed position, i.e. when no thrust force (other than gravity) is acting on them.

This additional dihedral angle formed by the support planes of the washer may, for example, be substantially congruent to the dihedral angle formed by the flaps of the base. In one possible embodiment, the support planes are defined by surfaces of the washer that are at least partially flexible, e.g. elastically, and/or rotatably coupled to (the plate-like body forming) the washer, at a hinge axis parallel to (and eccentric to) or coincident with a central vertex (i.e. a central vertex edge) of the additional dihedral angle formed therefrom.

It is not excluded that each of the support planes may be individually orientable with respect to (the plate-like body that forms) the washer around a respective parallel (and eccentric) hinge axis or coincident with a central vertex, i.e. a central vertex edge, (real or virtual) of the additional dihedral angle formed therefrom.

Furthermore, the first surface can be planar and orthogonal to a pass-through axis of the pass-through opening, wherein the first surface is configured to come into contact with a planar end of the pusher element.

According to a preferred but not limiting embodiment, the separator element comprises a threaded stem which the pusher element can be screwed to.

Further features and advantages of the invention will be more apparent after reading the following description provided by way of non-limiting example, with the aid of the accompanying drawings.

With particular reference to such figures, a supporting device for laying tiles, preferably configured to allow the (correct) mutual spacing and/or positioning of edges between tiles, indicated globally by the letter P, has been indicated globally by <NUM>.

Each tile P is adapted to be laid to cover a surface, for example at a sharp edge (i.e. preferably an external edge), so as to cover it.

Each tile P has a large laying surface P1, for example lower or rear, and an opposite large visible surface P2, for example upper or front, preferably of homologous shape (for example polygonal, preferably quadrangular) with respect to the laying surface P1.

Each tile P then comprises a plurality of lateral sidewalls P3, generally squared with the laying surface P1 and the visible surface P2, which laterally delimit the same tile.

Furthermore, in order to be able to cover the sharp edge and define, an additional covering sharp edge at the visible surface P2, each tile P comprises at least one lateral edge sidewall P4, which is tilted with respect to the visible surface P2 by an acute (internal) angle, for example substantially equal to <NUM>°, preferably but not limitedly by an angle (slightly) lower than <NUM>°, i.e. preferably equal to <NUM>°.

An apical edge P5 joining the visible surface P2 to the lateral edge sidewall P4 defines, together with another apical edge P5 homologous to an adjacent tile P (and laid squared with respect thereto), the additional sharp edge of the aforesaid covering.

The device <NUM> comprises a block configured to allow the (correct) mutual spacing and/or positioning between adjacent tiles P to define a sharp edge at the respective apical edges P5 and to act as a tie rod for guiding them (so as to level the two apical edges P5) following a suitable traction action.

The device <NUM>, i.e., the block thereof, comprises a base <NUM>, which is adapted in use to be placed behind the laying surface P1 of the tiles P, for example at the lateral edge sidewalls P4 thereof.

The base <NUM> has a plate-like shape, that is, it consists of a plate-like body, in which the thickness is the smaller dimension of the base <NUM>.

The base <NUM> comprises, as a whole, a rear face <NUM>, adapted to be arranged at a distance from the laying surface P1 of the tiles P installed, and an opposite front face <NUM>, adapted to be arranged proximal to the laying surface P1 of the tiles P and, for example, at least partially in contact therewith.

The base <NUM> is formed by two opposite flaps <NUM> joined at a median plane of base <NUM>. Each of the flaps <NUM> defining the base <NUM> has a respective portion of the rear face <NUM> and of the front face <NUM>.

In practice, each flap <NUM> has a first internal or rear surface defining the respective rear face portion <NUM> of the base <NUM> and an opposite second external or front surface defining the respective front face portion <NUM> of the base <NUM>.

The thickness (of each flap <NUM>) of the base <NUM> is defined by the mutual distance between the (portion of the) rear face <NUM> and the (portion of the) front face <NUM>.

The front face portion <NUM> of each flap <NUM> (or at least a portion thereof) is in practice intended to receive in support a portion of the laying surface P1 (for laying) of at least one tile P.

The front face portion <NUM> of each flap <NUM>, for this purpose, defines a support plane.

The base <NUM>, as a whole, is adapted to be immersed in a layer of adhesive which is intended to be covered by the tiles P, with the rear face <NUM> directed towards the surface to be covered and the front face <NUM> directed towards the overlying tiles P.

The base <NUM> (i.e. the flaps <NUM> of which it is composed) is defined by a monolithic body, for example made of a plastic material (obtained by injection moulding).

The flaps <NUM> are tilted between each other and form a dihedral angle lower than the straight angle, wherein said dihedral angle is internal to the portions of rear face <NUM> of the flaps <NUM>.

For example, the dihedral angle formed by the (portions of rear face <NUM> of the) flaps <NUM> is a (non-zero) angle lower than <NUM>°, preferably ranging from <NUM>° to <NUM>°, even more preferably ranging from <NUM>° to <NUM>° (with a tolerance of ± <NUM>°).

In some applications, the dihedral angle is substantially equal to a right angle (i.e. it is equal to <NUM>° ± <NUM>°).

For example, the dihedral angle formed by the flaps <NUM> is substantially fixed or, preferably, it is variable (so as to adapt to the real inclination of the surfaces of the walls which form the sharp edge to cover).

For example, the base <NUM> and/or the flaps <NUM> may be at least partially flexible, for example elastically, so as to define, preferably, at a vertex edge <NUM> of the dihedral angle formed therefrom, a (imaginary or real) hinge axis parallel or coincident with this vertex edge <NUM>. In practice, the dihedral angle formed between the flaps <NUM> is configured (thanks to the aforesaid flexibility of the flaps <NUM>) to adapt (elastically) to the width of the sharp edge angle of the surfaces to be covered, when the rear surface <NUM> is placed in (forced) contact against said surfaces to be covered.

The vertex edge <NUM> of the dihedral angle defined by the flaps <NUM> (joining the portions of rear face <NUM> of each flap <NUM>) is placed on the aforesaid median plane of the base <NUM>.

In the examples illustrated, the flaps <NUM> are substantially congruent with each other (and symmetrical with respect to the aforesaid median plane), however, it is not excluded that they may be different from each other, for example one being longer than the other (or geometrically asymmetrical).

The rear face portions <NUM> of each flap <NUM> are tilted between each other by the aforesaid dihedral angle (lower than <NUM>°, preferably equal to <NUM>° ± <NUM>°).

The flaps <NUM>, moreover, define an additional external dihedral angle greater than <NUM>°, which is substantially explementary with respect to the aforesaid dihedral angle.

In practice, the front face portions <NUM> of each flap <NUM> are tilted between each other by the aforesaid additional explementary dihedral angle of the dihedral angle formed between the rear face portions <NUM> of each flap <NUM>.

A vertex peak <NUM> of the additional dihedral angle defined by the flaps <NUM> (joining the front face portions <NUM> of each flap <NUM>) is placed on the aforesaid median plane of the base <NUM>.

In other words, the rear face <NUM> defines an intrados surface of the base <NUM> (and has a substantially concave inverted "V" profile), and, for example, the front face <NUM> defines an extrados surface of the base <NUM> (and presents a substantially convex inverted "V" profile, substantially explementary to the substantially concave inverted "V" profile defined by the rear face portion21).

For example, the flaps <NUM> are symmetrical between each other with respect to the said median plane of the base <NUM> (which passes through the vertex edge <NUM> and/or through the vertex peak <NUM>).

This median plane, therefore, is also a plane bisecting the (internal) dihedral angle and/or the additional (external) dihedral angle defined by the flaps <NUM>.

Preferably, the ends that are distal from the vertex edge <NUM> (and/or from the vertex peak <NUM>) of each flap <NUM> (i.e., the eave ends of each flap <NUM>) are substantially parallel to the vertex edge <NUM>.

In practice, each (portion of rear face <NUM> and/or of the front face <NUM> of each) flap <NUM> has a substantially quadrangular (e.g., rectangular) shape.

It is not excluded that each flap <NUM> may have a different shape (e.g. polygonal) and/or may consist of a plurality of beams (either separated or joined between each other), which join at said vertex edge and/or vertex peak.

Each flap <NUM> has a connecting face <NUM> between the distal end of the respective rear face portion <NUM> and the distal end of the respective front face portion <NUM>, wherein said connecting face <NUM> is preferably, but not limitedly, tilted with respect to the front face portion <NUM> of the same flap <NUM> by a connecting angle equal to one-half of the (internal) dihedral angle. The device <NUM>, i.e. the block thereof, further comprises a separator element <NUM> projecting from the base <NUM> (in front thereof), preferably from the front face <NUM> of the base <NUM> on the side opposite with respect to the (internal) dihedral angle formed by the flaps <NUM> thereof.

The separator element <NUM> is suitable, in use, to fit between facing lateral edge sidewalls P4 of at least two (or more) tiles P to be placed side-by-side on site in order to determine the sharp edge of the aforesaid covering (i.e. the two or more tiles that are supported with their laying surface P1 on the respective front face portion <NUM> of the flaps <NUM> of the base <NUM>).

Preferably, the separator element <NUM> is configured to contact (at least partially), on opposite sides thereof, such facing lateral edge sidewalls P4 by defining the width of the interspace (or joint) between such facing lateral edge sidewalls P4, that is - mainly - between the apical edges P5 of the tiles P.

The separator element <NUM>, as further described below, projects (starting) from the vertex peak <NUM> of the front face <NUM> of the base <NUM>.

For example, the separator element <NUM> has a longitudinal axis of development, which is, for example, orthogonal to the vertex edge <NUM> (and/or to the vertex peak <NUM>) and belongs to the median plane of the base <NUM>, i.e. to the plane bisecting the dihedral angle formed by the flaps <NUM> thereof.

In practice, the separator element <NUM> projects from (the vertex peak <NUM> of the front face <NUM> of) the base <NUM> along a direction parallel to (and coincident with) this longitudinal axis (i.e. parallel to, and preferably lying on, the plane bisecting the dihedral angle and orthogonal to the vertex edge <NUM> of the same dihedral angle).

In other words, the separator element <NUM> joins the front face <NUM>, at the vertex peak <NUM> thereof, ascending along said longitudinal axis on the opposite side of the dihedral angle (formed internally to the portions of rear face <NUM> of the flaps <NUM>), that is, externally to said dihedral angle.

The separator element <NUM> cuts in two (equal parts) the additional (external) dihedral angle formed internally to the front face portions <NUM> of the flaps <NUM>, wherein each half of said additional dihedral angle is arranged on the side opposite with respect to the median plane of the base <NUM> (passing through the vertex edge <NUM>).

The separator element <NUM> comprises a plate-like parallelepiped body, for example with a substantially prevalently rectangular or trapezoidal section, which defines a thin separation wall.

In practice, the thickness of the separator element <NUM> is the smaller dimension of the separator element.

The separator element <NUM> has a width (width being the dimension of the separator element <NUM> parallel to the vertex peak <NUM> from which it is derived), which is lower than or equal to the width of the base <NUM> (i.e. the length of the vertex peak <NUM> and/or of the vertex edge <NUM> thereof).

Preferably, as further described below, the separator element <NUM> may have areas of different thickness.

The separator element <NUM> comprises, therefore, at least two opposite faces <NUM>, at least a portion of which is planar (arranged on opposite sides with respect to said bisecting plane and/or median plane of the base <NUM>).

The opposite faces <NUM> (i.e., the planar portions thereof) are parallel to each other, and the mutual distance between (the planar portions of) them defines a calibrated thickness of the separator element <NUM> which, in turn, defines the width of the joint between the lateral edge sidewalls P4 (and thus also of the apical edges P5) of the tiles P (resting on the flaps <NUM> of the base <NUM>).

Each (planar portion of) face <NUM> of the separator element <NUM> is tilted with respect to the (portion of) front face <NUM> of the respective (and proximal) flap <NUM> by an angle equal to half of the additional dihedral (external) angle.

In practice, each (planar portion of) face <NUM> of the separator element <NUM> is tilted with respect to the (portion of) front face <NUM> of the respective (and proximal) flap <NUM> by an angle equal to half of the angle explementary to the dihedral (internal) angle defined by the base <NUM>.

In practice, each tile P that rests on one of the two portions of the front face <NUM> of the base <NUM> is adapted to contact one of the faces <NUM> of the separator element <NUM> by means of a respective lateral edge sidewall P4.

Furthermore, the separator element <NUM> has a height (understood as the dimension along the longitudinal axis) greater than the thickness of the tiles P to be laid (i.e., the distance between the visible surface P2 and the laying surface P1), so that the top of the separator element <NUM>, once the tiles P are resting (with their laying surface P1) on the respective front face portion <NUM> of the base <NUM>, protrudes superiorly (abundantly) with respect to the apical edge P5 of the tiles.

The separator element <NUM> has a base end <NUM> preferably joined to the base <NUM>, at the vertex peak <NUM> thereof, and an opposite free end <NUM> distal from the base <NUM>.

The free end <NUM> may have, for example, upper walls sloping from the centre towards the opposite longitudinal ends and, for example, an increased thickness with respect to the rest of the separator element <NUM>. Preferably, the separator element <NUM> is made as a single (monolithic) body with the base <NUM>, i.e. for example obtained by moulding plastic material together with the base.

At least a (majority) portion of the separator element <NUM> is connected to the base <NUM> in a frangible manner, for example by a pre-established fracture line or section <NUM>.

In practice, at least a portion of the separator element <NUM> is configured to be detached from the base <NUM> as a result of an imposed fracture, preferably guided and/or propagating from said pre-established fracture line or section <NUM>.

The pre-established fracture line or section <NUM> can be configured in various ways according to requirements.

In practice, the pre-established fracture line or section <NUM> is configured to define a weakened area, of the thickness and/or width of the separator element <NUM>, which is configured to fail (for example due to fragile construction) if subjected to a determined breaking load (for example impulsive).

A preferred, but not limiting, embodiment of the pre-established fracture line or section <NUM>, illustrated in the figures, is described below.

In practice, the pre-established fracture line or section <NUM> is adapted, in use, to be arranged inferiorly to the level of the apical edge P5 of the tiles P to be spaced and levelled, for example substantially at the same level as the vertex peak <NUM> of the upper face <NUM> of the base <NUM> that is, like in the example, slightly spaced therefrom, in practice placed on the separator element <NUM>.

For example, the pre-established fracture line or section <NUM> is made on the separator element <NUM> near the vertex peak <NUM> of the base <NUM>.

It is not excluded that the pre-established fracture line or section <NUM> may be made at the base end <NUM> defining the junction line between the separator element <NUM> and the vertex peak <NUM> of the base <NUM>.

The pre-established fracture line or section <NUM>, for example, guides and/or allows and/or defines a fracture line substantially parallel to the vertex peak <NUM> of the base <NUM>.

Thanks to such a pre-established fracture line or section <NUM> the entire emerging portion of the device <NUM> with respect to the apical edges P5 of the tiles P and also at least a substantial immersed portion of the separator element, comprising most of the separator element <NUM>, can be easily removed, once the tiles P are installed and the adhesive supporting them has consolidated.

Once the fracture has been triggered and propagated, the portion immersed in the adhesive of the device <NUM>, i.e. the (only) base <NUM> (and a small portion of the foot of the separator element <NUM>), remains trapped (disposable) in the adhesive below the laying surface P1 of the laid tiles P.

The pre-established fracture line or section <NUM> (and/or the fracture triggered by it) develops longitudinally in a direction parallel to the vertex peak <NUM> along the entire width of the separator element <NUM>.

For example, the separator element <NUM> may provide one or more pass-through or blind lightening windows, for example in areas of the separator element <NUM> that are proximal to and/or delimited inferiorly by the vertex peak <NUM>.

For example, the pre-established fracture line or section <NUM> has two lateral stretches, which are configured to cut (and cross) the separator element <NUM> (i.e., two lateral legs thereof that laterally surround the window).

For example, the lateral stretches of the pre-established fracture line or section <NUM> comprise, for example, a longitudinal cut extending longitudinally with a longitudinal axis parallel to the vertex peak <NUM>.

The longitudinal cut extends along a predetermined stretch of the width of the separator element <NUM>, preferably along the entire width of one leg of the same.

Preferably, each longitudinal cut defines a respective portion of the (weakened) area having a reduced cross section, having a thickness lower than the thickness of the separator element <NUM> at the faces <NUM> thereof.

Each pre-established fracture section or line <NUM> may further comprise at least one fracture trigger element, which is localized in a predetermined trigger area of the longitudinal cut along its longitudinal axis.

The trigger element defines the trigger area of the longitudinal cut having a reduced thickness.

This reduced thickness (localized at the trigger element) can be comprised between the zero thickness (comprised) and the thickness of the (weakened) area of the longitudinal cut (not comprised).

Advantageously, the trigger element is localized near at least one axial end of the longitudinal cut.

Preferably, but not limited to, the trigger element is localized near at least one axial end of the longitudinal cut at a predetermined non-zero distance therefrom.

The trigger element comprises or consists of a trigger hole passing from side to side along the entire thickness of the separator element <NUM>, in which the pass-through axis of the trigger hole is transverse (and incident), preferably orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the longitudinal cut, i.e. it is orthogonal to the faces <NUM>.

The trigger hole is for example with a constant circular section, that is it has a substantially cylindrical shape, however it is not excluded that this hole may have different shapes according to requirements.

Each lateral stretch of the pre-established fracture section or line <NUM> comprises a respective (single) trigger element placed in proximity to one (only) axial end of the respective longitudinal cut, preferably the external axial end (distal from the central window).

In a preferred embodiment shown in <FIG>, the device <NUM> is of the "screw" type. In such a case, the block, i.e. the separator element <NUM> thereof, comprises a threaded stem <NUM>, for example provided with a male thread <NUM>, which projects from the free end <NUM> of the separator element <NUM>, axially extending the same.

In other words, the threaded stem <NUM> comprises a base end joined to (and derived from) the free end <NUM> of the separator element <NUM> and an axially opposite free top end.

In practice, the screwing axis of the threaded stem <NUM> is parallel (and coincident) with the longitudinal axis of the separator element, i.e. it is orthogonal to the vertex edge <NUM> (and/or to the vertex peak <NUM>) and belongs to the plane bisecting the dihedral angle formed by the flaps <NUM> of the base <NUM>.

The male thread <NUM> extends, for example, substantially along the entire length of the threaded stem <NUM> and, for example, has a constant pitch.

The threaded stem <NUM> in the example has a substantially double length with respect to the height of the separator element <NUM>.

Preferably, the threaded stem <NUM> is made in a single (monolithic) body with the separator element <NUM> (and the block <NUM>), that is for example obtained by plastic moulding together with the base.

The device <NUM> further comprises a pusher element <NUM> adapted to cooperate with the separator element <NUM>, i.e. to exert a traction action on it, as will become clearer in the following description.

The pusher element <NUM> is defined by a body that is separate from the block, and configured to cooperate with it.

The pusher element <NUM> in the examples shown is defined, as a whole, by a monolithic body, for example made of a plastic material (obtained by injection moulding).

In the preferred embodiment shown in <FIG>, the pusher element <NUM> is configured to be screwed onto the threaded stem <NUM>.

The pusher element <NUM> comprises a knob <NUM> having a globally inverted cup or bowl shape, that is a concave shape (with concavity directed towards the base <NUM> installed). The knob <NUM> develops, for example, around a central axis, adapted to be placed coaxial with the threaded stem <NUM> when the pusher element <NUM> is screwed onto it, as will be better described below.

The knob <NUM> has, in the example, a substantially truncated-conical or dome shape, that is, it has an enlarged (lower) end and an opposite tapered top end.

It is not excluded that the knob <NUM> may have any other shape, such as for example cylindrical, like a butterfly, a handle, or other suitable shape suitable for being gripped by a hand of a person in charge of the installation for screwing it.

In the example, the enlarged (lower) end of the knob <NUM> defines an inlet mouth or cavity <NUM>, for example substantially circular (coaxial with the central axis of the knob).

The inlet cavity <NUM> has, for example, an internal diameter greater than the external diameter of the male thread <NUM> of the threaded stem <NUM>, so that the latter can be fitted axially with abundant radial clearance inside the inlet cavity <NUM> of the knob <NUM>.

More preferably, the inlet cavity <NUM> has an internal diameter substantially equal to or slightly greater than the (maximum) width of the separator element <NUM>, so that the latter (if necessary) can be fitted axially with radial clearance inside the inlet cavity <NUM> of the knob <NUM>, when the pusher element <NUM> is screwed onto the threaded stem <NUM>.

In the shown example, the knob <NUM> comprises an internal shell, for example substantially smooth, and a shaped external shell.

The external shell of the knob <NUM>, for example, comprises projections <NUM> (or ridges), for example in number of <NUM>, to facilitate the grip and the rotation actuation for screwing the knob.

Each projection <NUM> has, for example, a substantially triangular shape, preferably with a side orthogonal to the inlet cavity <NUM> of the knob <NUM>.

Furthermore, the knob <NUM> can have one or more windows <NUM>, for example pass-through or transparent windows, made at the wall which joins the enlarged (lower) end of the knob <NUM> with its tapered top.

For example, each window <NUM> is made at an interspace (or recess) between two adjacent projections <NUM>.

Each window <NUM>, in the example, is a pass-through window in a continuous way from the external shell to the internal shell and forming a decreasing and connected ramp and, preferably, has a substantially ogival (rounded and elongated) shape, which is enlarged towards the (lower) enlarged end of the knob <NUM>.

It is not excluded that the knob <NUM> may be entirely transparent.

The knob <NUM> also has a planar end <NUM> adapted to be directed towards the base <NUM> (parallel thereto) when the pusher element <NUM> is screwed onto the threaded stem <NUM> and perpendicular to the central axis of the knob <NUM>.

The planar end <NUM> actually delimits perimeterally (with full development) the inlet cavity <NUM> of the knob <NUM>.

The planar end <NUM> is for example substantially shaped like a circular crown, preferably defined by the base of a cylindrical shank coaxial with the central axis and deriving inferiorly from the cap (truncated-conical) portion of the knob <NUM>.

In the example, the planar end <NUM> is defined by a pair of concentric circular crowns, for example each defined by the base of a cylindrical shank coaxial with the central axis, as described above.

In practice, the planar end <NUM> is adapted to be directed, in use, towards the base <NUM> (or towards the apical edge P5 of the tiles P resting on the base <NUM>) and defines a perfectly planar annular surface perpendicular to the central axis of the knob <NUM>.

The knob <NUM> may comprise, for example at or near the planar end <NUM>, an annular step protruding radially towards the outside of the knob, for example of the external shell thereof and (also) of the projections <NUM>.

The pusher element <NUM> particularly comprises a screw nut <NUM> (female thread) configured to couple (with a helical coupling) with the male thread <NUM> of the threaded stem <NUM>.

The screw nut <NUM> has, for example, a screwing axis coinciding with the central axis of the knob <NUM>.

The screw nut <NUM> is, for example, made at (or near) the tapered top of the knob <NUM>. For example, the screw nut <NUM> is defined at an upper shank which projects from the top of the knob <NUM>, for example having a substantially truncated-conical (or cylindrical or prismatic) shape.

The screw nut <NUM> passes axially from side to side said upper shank and, for example, at its internal end (i.e. the one that opens up into the internal shell of the knob <NUM>) is provided with a lead-in taper to facilitate the axial insertion and the alignment of the threaded stem <NUM> with the screw nut <NUM>.

The screw nut <NUM> is, advantageously, defined by a continuous helix, preferably of a plurality of turns.

It cannot be ruled out that the screw nut <NUM> may be defined by discontinuous stretches of one or more helices.

The pusher element <NUM> in the example shown is defined, as a whole, by a monolithic body, for example made of a plastic material (obtained by injection moulding).

In a further possible embodiment shown in <FIG>, the device <NUM> is of the "ratchet" type.

In such a case, the block, i.e. the separator element <NUM> thereof, comprises a notched band <NUM> (which performs the function of the threaded stem <NUM> of the "screw" devices), which projects from the free end <NUM> of the separator element <NUM>, extending it axially.

In other words, the notched band <NUM> comprises a base end joined to (and deriving from) the free end <NUM> of the separator element <NUM> and an axially opposite free top end.

In practice, the notches of the notched band <NUM> are aligned along a direction of imposed sliding that is parallel (and coincident) with the longitudinal axis of the separator element, i.e. it is orthogonal to the vertex edge <NUM> (and/or to the vertex peak <NUM>) and belongs to the plane bisecting the dihedral angle formed by the flaps <NUM> of the base <NUM>.

The notches of the notched band <NUM> extend, for example, substantially along the entire length of the notched band and, for example, it has constant pitch.

The notched band <NUM> in the example is substantially twice as long as the height of the separator element <NUM>.

Preferably, the notched band <NUM> is made in a single (monolithic) body with the separator element <NUM> (and the block <NUM>), that is for example obtained by moulding plastic material together with the base.

In such an embodiment shown in <FIG>, the pusher element <NUM> is configured to slide along the notched band <NUM>, engaging the same in a pop-up manner.

Preferably, the pop-up connection is unidirectional, so that the pusher element <NUM> can slide on the notched band <NUM> only when approaching the separator element <NUM> (and the base <NUM>).

The pusher element <NUM> comprises a cap having an overall inverted cup or bowl shape, for example truncated pyramidal, i.e. a concave shape (with concavity directed towards the base <NUM> installed).

It is not excluded that the cap may have any other shape, such as for example conical, cylindrical, like a butterfly, a handle, or other suitable shape adapted to be gripped by a hand of a person in charge of the installation for screwing it.

The cap, moreover, has a planar end (and/or of the coplanar lower feet) directed towards the base <NUM> (parallel thereto) when the pusher element <NUM> is slidingly associated on the notched band <NUM> and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the notched band.

In practice, the planar end is adapted to be directed, in use, towards the base <NUM> (or towards the apical edge P5 of the tiles P resting on the base <NUM>) and defines a perfectly planar surface perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A of the separator element <NUM>.

The pusher element <NUM> comprises, in particular, a toothed slot configured to couple (with a pop-up coupling) with the teeth of the notched band <NUM>.

For example, a toothed slot is defined at an upper shank projecting from the top of the cap and/or at a top wall of the cap.

The toothed slot passes axially this top wall of the cap from side to side and, for example, at its internal end it is provided with a lead-in taper to facilitate the axial insertion and alignment of the toothed band <NUM> in the cap.

In another possible embodiment shown in <FIG>, the device <NUM> is of the "wedge" type.

In such a case, the block, i.e. the separator element <NUM> thereof, at least partially delimits at least one (pass-through) window <NUM>, which is configured to emerge above the level reached by the apical edges P5 of the tiles P resting on the portions of the upper face <NUM> of the base <NUM>.

The window <NUM> is delimited at the top by a bridge <NUM> (or crossbar), which develops parallel to the vertex peak <NUM> (at a non-zero distance therefrom).

The bridge <NUM> is joined to the free end <NUM> of the separator element <NUM>, which, in this case, is defined by a central leg or, preferably, by two separate legs which laterally delimit the window <NUM>.

In practice, the bridge <NUM> performs the function of the threaded stem <NUM> of the "screw" devices.

Preferably, the bridge <NUM> is made in a single (monolithic) body with the separator element <NUM> (and the base <NUM>), i.e. for example obtained by moulding plastic material together with the base.

In such an embodiment shown in <FIG>, the pusher element <NUM> is defined by a pressure wedge (e.g. separated or joined in some way to the respective block).

A pressure wedge is a right-angled wedge, for example it is provided with a planar end defined by a flat lower surface and adapted to be directed, in use, towards the vertex peak <NUM> of the base <NUM> and an upper surface tilted with respect to the lower surface and provided, for example, with abutment elements, such as teeth or knurls.

The pressure wedge has variable (and steadily growing) thickness along its longitudinal axis from one tapered end to the opposite widened end.

The pressure wedge is configured to be able to be axially fitted with clearance through the window <NUM> of the block along an insertion direction orthogonal to the vertex peak <NUM> (and to the vertex edge <NUM>) and orthogonal to the plane bisecting the dihedral angle formed by the flaps <NUM> of the base.

For example, the maximum height of the pressure wedge is lower than the height of the window <NUM> (i.e. the distance of the lower edge of the bridge <NUM> from the vertex peak <NUM>).

The lower edge of the bridge (directed towards the vertex peak <NUM>) is adapted to engage the teeth of the pressure wedge substantially in a pop-up manner during the axial insertion of the pressure wedge into the window along the insertion direction.

The pressure wedge is adapted to be fitted into the window <NUM> by means of a direct axial thrust parallel to the insertion direction from the side of maximum height of the pressure wedge.

During this insertion, the upper surface of the pressure wedge comes into forced contact with the lower edge of the bridge <NUM>, exerting a traction action on the separator element <NUM> (and on the base <NUM>).

Furthermore, in addition to those described above, it is possible to envisage that the device <NUM> may be of a different type, such as for example a "ring nut" device or other.

The device <NUM> (for each of the above-described embodiments) further comprises a washer <NUM> configured to be interposed, in use, between (the surface of) the pusher element <NUM> (directed towards the base <NUM>) and the (front face <NUM> of) the base <NUM> (i.e., the vertex peak <NUM>). In practice, the washer <NUM> defines a spacer element or a spacer, which is interposed between (the surface of) the pusher element <NUM> (directed towards the base <NUM>) and the (front face <NUM> of) the base <NUM> (i.e. the vertex peak <NUM>), more specifically between (the visible surface P2 of) the tiles P (resting on the base <NUM>) and (the surface of) the pusher element <NUM> (directed towards the base <NUM>).

For example, the washer <NUM> is configured to be held stationary (as will better appear below) with respect to the visible surface P2 of the tiles P (while resting on it) while the pusher element <NUM> is movable (during its pressing action) with respect to the protection ring nut <NUM> and/or the visible surface P2 of the tiles P and/or the base <NUM>.

The washer <NUM>, in the present case, defines an abutment surface for the pusher element <NUM> which allows the latter to exert a traction action on the block, i.e. on the separator element <NUM> (and/or a thrust action by the base <NUM> on the laying surface P1 of the tiles P resting on the flaps <NUM>).

The washer <NUM> is, on the whole, a rigid body, i.e. it is not deformable under the usual (bending) stresses to which it is subjected when installed, i.e. under the action of the pusher element <NUM>.

The washer <NUM>, in this case, comprises a plate-like body <NUM>, for example with a thin thickness, preferably of a circular shape (or of any shape according to the requirements, for example polygonal, like quadrangular or oval or other).

The plate-like body <NUM> is provided with a front face (directed towards the pusher element <NUM>, when in use) and an opposite rear face (directed towards the base <NUM>, when in use). The washer <NUM>, i.e. the plate-like body <NUM> thereof, comprises - at its front face - at least a first (front) surface <NUM> intended to be directed towards the pusher element <NUM>, when in use.

The first surface <NUM> is planar and, for example, defines a support and/or rubbing surface for the pusher element <NUM> (i.e., for the planar end <NUM> thereof).

Preferably (as shown, in particular, in <FIG> and <FIG>), but not limitedly, the first surface <NUM> develops along the entire front face of the washer <NUM> (i.e. along a prevailing portion thereof), i.e. the entire front face of the washer <NUM> is planar.

It cannot be ruled out that the first surface <NUM> may only involve a portion of the front face of the washer <NUM>.

In this case, for example, the front face of the washer <NUM> might have a lowered area (or a lowering), for example central, as shown in <FIG>.

Advantageously, the lowered area extends longitudinally over an entire dimension (for example a diameter or a width or a length) of the washer <NUM>.

Advantageously, the central longitudinal axis of the lowered area coincides with a diameter of the washer <NUM>.

The lowered area, for example, has a bottom wall defining (inside it) a supporting surface <NUM> (fully developed along the central longitudinal axis of the lowered area).

The supporting surface <NUM> is, for example, wholly or at least partially planar, e.g. parallel to (and not coincident with) the first surface <NUM> (i.e. located at a lower level than it). For example, the supporting surface <NUM> is connected to the first surface <NUM> by means of a step.

Advantageously, the lowered area is interposed between at least two lateral portions of the front face and/or of the washer <NUM>, wherein the top wall of each lateral portion defines a respective portion of the aforesaid first (planar) surface <NUM>.

For example, the top walls of the lateral portions (which define the first surface <NUM> as a whole) are coplanar with each other and define, as a whole, a support (and sliding) plane for (any) pusher element <NUM> (i.e. for the planar end <NUM> thereof).

In practice, the supporting surface <NUM> (defined by the bottom wall of the lowered area) is connected to each portion of the first surface <NUM> (defined by the top wall of each lateral portion) by a respective step, wherein, for example, each step has a raised surface that is tilted with respect to the supporting surface <NUM> and to the first surface <NUM>, for example orthogonal thereto.

The lowered area, in practice, defines a longitudinal channel (fully developed) on the front face, which is delimited below by the supporting surface <NUM>.

The supporting surface <NUM> defines, as a whole, an auxiliary (and sliding) support plane for a pusher element <NUM> (i.e. for the planar end <NUM> thereof), for example for a pressure wedge (as shown in the figures). In particular, the lowered area allows the (axial) insertion of a pressure wedge in those circumstances in which the thickness of the tiles P to be laid is high (compared to the height of the separator element <NUM>).

The planar end <NUM> of the pressure wedge, in such a case, can slide axially (sliding) on the supporting surface <NUM> by exerting a thrust orthogonal to the supporting surface on the washer <NUM>.

In practice, the front face of the washer <NUM> is configured so that at least one of the first surface <NUM> and the supporting surface <NUM> can be selectively engaged (by defining a support and/or rubbing contact) by the pusher element <NUM>, depending on the installation requirements.

A pusher element <NUM> (provided with a screw nut <NUM>) for a "screw" type device <NUM> is configured to rest (and rub) on the first surface <NUM> of the washer <NUM>.

A pusher element <NUM> of a pressure wedge type for a "wedge" type device is configured to selectively rest (and rub) on the first surface <NUM> (for an axial sliding in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the lowered area, where provided) or on the supporting surface <NUM> (for an axial sliding in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the lowered area).

A pusher element <NUM> (of the cap type) for a device <NUM> of the "ratchet" type is configured to rest on the first surface <NUM>.

The washer <NUM> is configured such that the plane defined by the first surface <NUM> (and/or by the supporting surface <NUM>), in use, is substantially parallel and/or coincident with the planar end <NUM> of the pusher element <NUM> at least when the latter is in contact (by means of its planar end) with the (first surface <NUM> and/or the supporting surface <NUM> of the) washer.

The washer <NUM>, moreover, comprises a second (rear) surface <NUM> opposite to the first surface <NUM>, wherein the second surface <NUM> is intended to be directed towards the base <NUM> (i.e. facing the vertex peak <NUM> of the front face <NUM> of the base <NUM>), when in use (i.e. when the washer <NUM> is axially interposed between the base <NUM> and the pusher element <NUM>).

The second surface <NUM> of the washer <NUM> is adapted to come into contact with the visible surface P2 of the tiles P that are resting on the (front face <NUM> of each flap <NUM> of the) base <NUM> (and remain firmly anchored there during the movement of the pusher element <NUM> with respect to the separator element <NUM> and/or the base <NUM>).

The second surface <NUM>, in use, is adapted to come into contact with the visible surface P2 of the tiles P that are resting on the flaps <NUM> of the base <NUM> remaining substantially integral with it (stationary, without sliding) during the movement (i.e. the screwing roto-translation or the axial or transversal sliding) of the pusher element <NUM> with respect to the separator element <NUM> (i.e. on the threaded stem <NUM> or on the notched band <NUM> or inside the window <NUM>).

The second surface <NUM> comprises at least one pair of support planes <NUM> which are tilted and/or tiltable between each other and which are configured to form an additional internal dihedral angle lower than the straight angle, preferably congruent with the dihedral angle formed by the (portion of rear face <NUM> of the) flaps <NUM> of the base <NUM>.

For example, the additional internal dihedral angle formed by the pair of support planes <NUM> is a (non-zero) angle lower than <NUM>°, preferably ranging from <NUM>° to <NUM>°, even more preferably ranging from <NUM>° to <NUM>° (with a tolerance of ± <NUM>°), for example fixed or variable.

In certain applications, the additional internal dihedral angle formed by the two support planes <NUM> is a right angle (i.e. equal to <NUM>° ± <NUM>°), for example fixed or variable.

In practice, the two planes of the pair of support planes <NUM> join at a central vertex (real or virtual), i.e. a central vertex edge, for example defined by a squared recess (complementary to the shape of the vertex peak <NUM> of the base <NUM>).

The central vertex is parallel to the first surface <NUM> of the washer <NUM> and, for example, extends along the entire (maximum) width of the washer <NUM>.

In practice, the planes of the pair of support planes <NUM> extend in the direction parallel to their central vertex along the entire (maximum) width of the washer <NUM>.

The plane bisecting the additional dihedral angle formed by the pair of support planes <NUM> is, preferably, orthogonal to the first surface <NUM> of the washer <NUM>.

The planes of the pair of support planes <NUM>, in use, are configured to each come into contact with the visible surface P2 of (at least) a tile P resting on a respective flap <NUM> of the base <NUM> while remaining substantially integral with it (stationary, without sliding) during the movement (i.e. the screwing roto-translation or axial or transverse sliding) of the pusher element <NUM> with respect to the separator element <NUM> (i.e. on the threaded stem <NUM> or on the notched band <NUM> or inside the window <NUM>).

In the illustrated example, the planes of the pair of support planes <NUM> are rigidly fixed to (the plate-like body <NUM> forming) the washer <NUM>.

It is not excluded that the planes of the pair of support planes <NUM> can be rotatably and/or flexibly fixed to (the plate-like body <NUM> forming) the washer <NUM>, for example around one or more hinge and/or folding axes that are parallel (and coinciding or eccentric) to the central vertex of the additional dihedral angle formed therefrom.

For example, the second surface <NUM> of the washer <NUM> may comprise, as shown in particular in <FIG>, a plurality of pairs of support planes <NUM> (as described above), for example in number of two pairs of support planes <NUM>.

In this case, the central vertex (i.e. the central vertex edge) of a pair of support planes <NUM>, i.e. the axis on which this central vertex of the additional dihedral angle formed by a pair of support planes <NUM> lies (and/or the plane bisecting the additional dihedral angle formed by a pair of support planes <NUM>) is tilted, preferably orthogonal, to the central vertex (i.e. to the central vertex edge) of the other pair of support planes <NUM>, i.e. the axis on which this central vertex of the additional dihedral angle formed by the other pair of support planes <NUM> lies (and/or to the plane bisecting the additional dihedral angle formed by the other pair of support planes <NUM>).

In this way, it is possible to position the washer <NUM> at the sharp edge between the tiles P, so that the sharp edge between the tiles P selectively occupies one of the additional dihedral angles formed by one of the pairs of support surfaces <NUM> (depending on the laying requirements).

For example, a central vertex (i.e., the central vertex edge) of a pair of support planes <NUM> is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the lowered area of the front face (where provided).

Preferably, the washer <NUM> comprises a perimeter shell <NUM> that is derived (posteriorly) from the perimeter edge of the plate-like body <NUM> on the opposite side of the first surface <NUM>, for example substantially squared with respect to it.

The perimeter shell <NUM> is made in a single body with the plate-like body <NUM>.

The shell <NUM>, as designed, represents a (first) anti-bending and/or anti-torsional stiffening element of the plate-like body <NUM> and, hence, of the washer <NUM>.

For example, the perimeter shell <NUM> is substantially cylindrical (or prismatic, with a base homologous to the shape of the plate-like body <NUM>).

Thus, the perimeter shell <NUM> has a front axial end joined to the (perimeter edge of the) plate-like body <NUM> and an opposite free rear axial end.

For example, the rear end is substantially (but not limitedly) planar, i.e., globally lying on a plane, preferably parallel to the first surface <NUM> (or each of them).

The axial wall of the rear end of the perimeter shell perimeter <NUM> defines at least one (end) portion of the second surface <NUM> of the washer <NUM>.

Each pair of support planes <NUM> may be at least partially defined at (a portion of) the axial wall of the rear end of the perimeter shell <NUM>.

On the perimeter shell <NUM>, at least two (identical) shaped cracks (inverted "V" shaped), diametrically opposite, are made, wherein the axial wall stretches of each shaped crack are tilted between each other defining between them the aforesaid additional internal dihedral angle (congruent with the dihedral angle formed between the flaps <NUM>) and converge at a common central (squared) vertex, which is proximal to the plate-like body <NUM> (i.e. to the first surface <NUM>).

A stretch of the axial wall of each shaped crack is coplanar to an axial wall stretch of the other shaped crack, so that the axial wall stretches that are coplanar of the two shaped cracks lie on one of the support surfaces <NUM> of a pair of support planes <NUM>.

In practice, each pair of axial wall stretches which are coplanar and opposite to each other (aligned along a direction parallel to the central vertex) defines one of said (two) support planes <NUM> of a pair of support planes <NUM>.

In the event that (as shown in particular in <FIG>) the washer <NUM> comprises more than one pair of support planes <NUM> (e.g. two in number, preferably squared with each other), then at least one respective plurality of pairs of shaped cracks (inverted "V" shaped), diametrically opposite, are made on the perimeter shell <NUM>, as described above.

Preferably, the washer <NUM> comprises one or more reinforcing walls <NUM> that are derived (posteriorly) from the plate-like body <NUM> (in areas within the perimeter edge thereof) on the opposite side of the first surface <NUM>, e.g. substantially squared to it.

The reinforcing walls are parallel to each other and, preferably, orthogonal to the central vertex of the additional dihedral angle formed by the support planes <NUM> (as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>) and/or concentric with respect to a central axis of the washer <NUM> (orthogonal to the first surface <NUM>).

For example, each reinforcing wall <NUM> has a rear end joined to the plate-like body and an opposite free front end.

In addition, each reinforcing wall <NUM> joins at the opposite axial (lateral) ends to the perimeter shell <NUM>.

On each reinforcing wall <NUM>, at least one additional shaped crack (inverted "V" shaped) is made aligned with the shaped cracks made in the perimeter shell <NUM>, wherein the axial wall stretches of the shaped crack in each reinforcing wall <NUM> are tilted between each other defining between them the aforesaid additional internal dihedral angle (congruent to the dihedral angle formed between the flaps <NUM>) and converge at a common central (squared) vertex, which is proximal to the plate-like body <NUM> (i.e. to the first surface <NUM>).

An axial wall stretch of the shaped crack of each reinforcing wall <NUM> is coplanar to an axial wall stretch of the shaped crack of the reinforcing shell <NUM> on one of the support planes <NUM>, such that each axial wall stretch of the shaped crack of each reinforcing wall <NUM> contributes to defining one of said (two) support planes <NUM> of a pair of support planes <NUM> (in conjunction with the coplanar axial wall stretches of the shaped cracks of the perimeter shell <NUM>).

It may be provided that each pair of support planes <NUM> is defined only by the reinforcing walls <NUM> or only by the perimeter shell <NUM> or, as illustrated, by both.

It is also not excluded that the washer <NUM> is a solid body, in which each pair of support planes <NUM> is defined by a shaped crack (inverted "V" shaped) defining a pass-through channel (along a diameter or a dimension parallel to the first surface <NUM>) from side to side of the washer <NUM>.

In general, each pair of support planes <NUM> of the washer <NUM> is configured to define a sort of prismatic connection with the visible surface P2 of the (at least) two tiles placed resting on the flaps <NUM> of the base <NUM>.

The washer <NUM>, i.e., the plate-like body <NUM> thereof, further comprises a pass-through opening <NUM> (passing in the axial direction).

The pass-through opening <NUM> has, preferably but not limitedly, a pass-through axis orthogonal to the first surface <NUM>, for example coaxial or central thereto.

The pass-through axis of the pass-through opening <NUM>, moreover, cuts (orthogonally) the central vertex of the additional dihedral angle formed between the support planes <NUM>.

The support planes <NUM> of each pair of support planes <NUM> are arranged on opposite sides with respect to the pass-through opening <NUM> (i.e. with respect to a plane on which the pass-through axis and the central vertex of the respective pair of support planes <NUM> lie).

The pass- through opening <NUM> passes through the plate-like body <NUM> from side to side and is open at the upper face and the opposite lower face thereof.

The pass-through opening <NUM> in the illustrated example is closed perimeterally, however, it is not excluded that it may be open, for example at a circumferential stretch thereof, actually defining a crack in the plate-like body which also cuts the perimeter shell <NUM>.

In a preferred embodiment shown in <FIG>, the pass-through opening <NUM> has a circular shape.

For example, the internal diameter (or maximum dimension) of the pass-through opening <NUM> is greater than the maximum diameter of the threaded stem <NUM> (and lower than the maximum width of the separator element <NUM>), which can therefore be fitted axially (with radial clearance) in the pass-through opening <NUM>, allowing the insertion of the washer <NUM> between the base <NUM> and the pusher element <NUM>.

It is not excluded that the internal diameter (or maximum dimension) of the pass-through opening <NUM> may be greater than the maximum diameter of the threaded stem <NUM>.

In an alternative embodiment, the pass-through opening <NUM> may have any shape with a minimum dimension which is in any case greater than the maximum diameter of the threaded stem <NUM>.

Again, alternatively (as shown in <FIG>, as well as in <FIG>), the pass-through opening <NUM> has an elongated shape like a slit with a longitudinal axis that is radial with respect to the central axis of the washer <NUM> and preferably, it crosses the centre of the washer <NUM>. In practice, this pass-through opening <NUM> shaped like a slit is centred on the axis of the washer <NUM>.

The longitudinal axis of the slit defining the pass-through opening <NUM> is parallel to the central vertex, i.e. To the central vertex edge, of a pair of support planes <NUM>.

In the example, this washer <NUM> shaped like a slit is narrow and long, with a length slightly greater than the maximum width of the separator element <NUM> and with a width slightly greater (for example less than twice) the thickness of the separator element <NUM>.

Such a pass-through opening <NUM> shaped like a slit is, therefore, configured to fit (with clearance) on the separator element <NUM> and/or on the notched band <NUM> and/or on the bridge <NUM> (and establish a prismatic connection therewith).

In practice, the separator element <NUM> and/or the notched band <NUM> and/or the bridge <NUM> can be fitted axially inside the pass-through opening <NUM> shaped like a slit.

This pass-through opening <NUM> shaped like a slit has such a dimension that even the threaded stem <NUM> can be fitted (with abundant clearance) axially inside, for example by presenting an enlarged central area.

In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the pass-through opening <NUM> can be formed by two slits as described above, squared with each other, i.e. each with its own longitudinal axis parallel to the central vertex (i.e. to the central vertex edge) of a respective pair of support planes <NUM>, in practice conforming the pass-through opening <NUM> as a cross. One of said slits, therefore, has a longitudinal axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the lowered area (where provided) and the other (which will be engaged by the separator element when the pusher element <NUM> is to engage the supporting surface <NUM>) orthogonal thereto.

The pass-through opening <NUM>, at the second surface <NUM> of the washer <NUM> may be surrounded by a shank protruding behind the plate-like body (concentric to the perimeter shell), which is cut by the support planes <NUM>.

Preferably, the washer <NUM> is defined by a monolithic (stand-alone) body, for example made of a plastic material, preferably obtained by injection moulding.

In light of the above, the operation of the device <NUM> is as follows.

In order to cover a (external) sharp edge with a plurality of tiles P, it is sufficient to spread a layer of adhesive on it and, subsequently, it is possible to lay the tiles P on it, so that the lateral edge sidewalls P4 thereof de facto face each other (at a reduced distance from each other) and that the apical edges P5 of the tiles P cover the sharp edge and form an additional covering sharp edge.

In practice, if the first tile P is to be arranged, it is sufficient to position a first block, whose base <NUM> the vertex edge <NUM> of the same is substantially directed towards (and in contact with) the sharp edge to be covered.

Each rear face portion <NUM> of the respective flap <NUM> is substantially directed towards (and in contact with) a wall to be covered which forms the sharp edge.

A respective laying surface P1 of at least one tile P is laid on each front face portion <NUM> of the respective flap <NUM>, so that its lateral edge sidewall P4 is substantially in contact with a respective face <NUM> of the separator element <NUM>.

In this way, the square-angled arrangement and the equidistance between the visible surfaces P2 of the tiles P surrounding (the block of) the device <NUM> is ensured.

It is possible to have more than one block for each pair of tiles P.

Once the various blocks with the bases <NUM> have been positioned with the respective separator elements <NUM> as described above, as long as the adhesive has still not completely consolidated, it is proceeded with the insertion of the pass-through opening <NUM> of the washer <NUM> on the separator element <NUM> and/or on the threaded stem <NUM> and/or on the notched band <NUM> and/or on the bridge <NUM>, with the second surface <NUM> directed towards the visible surfaces P2 of the tiles P.

In practice, at least one of the support planes <NUM> (or both) of the washer <NUM> is brought into contact with at least one tile P, so that at least one apical edge P5 (or both) is placed at the central vertex defined between them.

Subsequently, it is sufficient to apply the pusher element <NUM> to the emerging portion of the threaded stem <NUM> and/or of the notched band <NUM> and/or of the bridge <NUM>, so that it gradually exerts its traction action on the separator element <NUM>.

In practice, in the case illustrated in the preferred embodiment shown in <FIG> and in the embodiments shown in <FIG>, the knob <NUM> is screwed onto the threaded stem <NUM> bringing the planar end <NUM> into contact with the first surface <NUM> of the washer <NUM>.

At this point the installer, by activating the rotation (manually or by means of a suitable tool) of the pusher element <NUM>, for example by gripping the projections <NUM> with his fingers, screws the latter onto the threaded stem <NUM> in such a way as to exert a gradual, suitably calibrated and controllable pressure on the visible surface P2 of all the tiles P on which the second surface <NUM> of the washer <NUM> rests and, at the same time, a traction on the laying surface P1 of the same through the flaps <NUM> of the base <NUM>.

During this screwing/tightening rotation, the washer <NUM> remains firmly integral with the tiles P while being able to slide axially (along the screwing axis).

The planar end <NUM> of the pusher element <NUM>, however, slides on the first surface <NUM> of the washer <NUM> during the screwing rotation which enables the tightening of the pusher element <NUM> and - thus - the levelling of the tiles P.

With this tightening action, in practice, the apical edges P5 of the tiles P are aligned with the central edge and are separated from each other by a (constant and calibrated) distance defined by the mutual distance between the faces <NUM> of the separator element <NUM> interposed between them. In fact, it allows the configuration of a uniform and precise covering sharp edge.

In the case illustrated in the further embodiment shown in <FIG>, the cap is made to slide along the notched band bringing its planar end into contact with the first surface <NUM> of the washer <NUM>.

At this point, the installer, by pushing (manually or by means of a suitable tool) the pusher element <NUM> in the axial direction on the notched band <NUM>, exerts a gradual, suitably calibrated and controllable pressure on the visible surface P2 of all the tiles P on which the second surface <NUM> of the washer <NUM> rests and, at the same time, a traction on the laying surface P1 of the same through the flaps <NUM> of the base <NUM>.

In the other embodiment shown in <FIG> and the embodiment shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the pressure wedge is made to slide axially (in a transverse direction, i.e. parallel to the first surface <NUM>) within the window <NUM>, so that its planar end is in contact with the first surface <NUM> of the washer <NUM> (as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>) or with the supporting surface <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>) and its tilted upper surface engages the bridge <NUM> in a pop-up manner.

At this point, the installer, by pushing (manually or by means of a suitable tool) the pusher element <NUM> in the axial (transverse) direction within the window <NUM>, exerts a gradual, suitably calibrated and controllable pressure on the visible surface P2 of all the tiles P on which the second surface <NUM> of the washer <NUM> rests and, at the same time, a traction on the laying surface P1 of the same through the flaps <NUM> of the base <NUM>.

Finally, when the adhesive has consolidated and has set on the laying surface of the tiles P, it is proceeded with breaking, for example with an impulsive force (due to a hammer or similar), the separator element <NUM> along the pre-established fracture line or section <NUM>, thus removing the same separator element <NUM>, with the pusher element <NUM> associated therewith, in order to be able to proceed with grouting the joints between the lateral edge sidewalls P4 of the tiles P without the base <NUM> being visible on the finished surface.

The pusher elements <NUM> and the washers <NUM> can then be reused.

The invention thus conceived is susceptible to several modifications and variations, all falling within the scope of the inventive concept.

Moreover, all the details can be replaced by other technically equivalent elements.

Claim 1:
A supporting device (<NUM>) for laying tiles comprising:
- a base (<NUM>);
- a separator element (<NUM>) projecting from the base; and
- a pusher element (<NUM>) adapted to cooperate with the separator element (<NUM>) and provided with a planar end (<NUM>) adapted to be directed towards the base (<NUM>),
wherein the base (<NUM>) comprises two flaps (<NUM>) arranged at opposite sides with respect to the separator element (<NUM>), wherein the flaps (<NUM>) are tilted between each other and form a dihedral angle lower than the straight angle opposite to the separator element (<NUM>); and
characterized in that the device further comprises
- a washer (<NUM>) provided with a pass-through opening (<NUM>) configured to be fitted onto the separator element (<NUM>), so as to be interposed between the pusher element (<NUM>) and the base (<NUM>);
wherein the washer (<NUM>) comprises at least a first planar surface (<NUM>) directed towards the pusher element (<NUM>) and a second surface (<NUM>) directed towards the base (<NUM>), wherein the second surface (<NUM>) comprises at least a pair of support planes (<NUM>) arranged on opposite sides with respect to the pass-through opening (<NUM>), wherein the pair of support planes (<NUM>) are tilted between each other and form an additional dihedral angle lower than the straight angle.