Adjustment aid

Abstract

The invention specifies an adjustment aid (10) for orienting an element relative to and on a surface, having a body (12), wherein the body (12) has a passage (14) with an inlet opening (16) and an outlet opening (18), wherein an element can be guided through the passage (14), three indicators (20), wherein the three indicators (20) each have a signal transmitter (22) and a contact point (24), and wherein the connection vectors of the contact points (24) are coplanar, wherein the three indicators (20) are each connected to the body (12) in such a way that they can be brought into contact with a surface via the respective contact points (24), wherein the three indicators (20) are configured such that, when the respective contact points (24) are in contact with the surface, a signal can be generated via the respective signal transmitters ().

Description

[0001] Adjustment aid

[0002] The present invention relates to an adjustment aid for aligning an element relative to and on a surface.

[0003] The precise alignment and placement of screws, nails, bolts, and similar fasteners is crucial in many areas of daily life and industry. Whether in furniture construction, in the construction industry, or in household crafts, the correct positioning of these fasteners is crucial for the safety, stability, and aesthetics of a project. In this context, an alignment aid plays a key role, providing essential support for precise alignment and placement.

[0004] An adjustment aid makes it possible to determine the exact position and angle for the fastening elements in advance and provides assistance in precisely maintaining these positions when inserting the elements to be adjusted.

[0005] Alignment aids help minimize human error and increase accuracy to a level that would be difficult to achieve by hand.

[0006] There is therefore a need for an improved alignment aid for aligning an element relative to and on a surface.

[0007] The object of the present invention is therefore to provide an improved adjustment aid for aligning an element relative to and on a surface. This object is achieved by the subject matter of the independent claim. Further developments can be found in the subclaims.

[0008] According to a first aspect of the invention, the adjustment aid for aligning an element relative to and on a surface comprises a body. The body has a passage with an inlet opening and an outlet opening, through which an element, such as a screw, can be passed. The adjustment aid further comprises three indicators, each of the three indicators having a signal generator and a contact point. The connection vectors of the contact points are coplanar. The three indicators are each connected to the body in such a way that they can be brought into contact with a surface via the respective contact points. The three indicators are configured such that, when the respective contact points are in contact with the surface, a signal can be generated via the respective signal generator.

[0009] In this context, the body is the central component of the alignment aid. It is a physical frame or structure that forms the basis for the entire device. In this case, the body is used to attach and organize the other parts of the alignment aid.

[0010] The passage is an opening or channel in the body of the alignment aid. It serves to guide a specific element from one side of the body to the other. In this context, the passage allows the movement of the element to be adjusted within the alignment aid.

[0011] The entry port is the part of the passage through which the element to be adjusted is inserted into the body of the alignment aid. This is where the process of aligning and adjusting the element begins. The exit port is the counterpart to the entry port and is located at the other end of the passage in the body of the alignment aid. It marks the point where the adjusted element exits the body and is aligned with the surface.

[0012] The indicators are components of the alignment aid used to inform the user of the correct alignment of the element. In this case, there are at least three indicators in total, each consisting of a signal generator and a contact point.

[0013] The signaling device is the respective part of the indicators that serves to provide the user with feedback in the form of signals. The generated signals or signal effects indicate the correct positioning of the element.

[0014] The contact point is the part of the indicator that actually comes into contact with the surface to be adjusted. These contact points are aligned in such a way that they can determine the orientation of the element on the surface.

[0015] The connecting vectors are imaginary lines or directions that describe the orientation of the contact points of the three indicators. These are coplanar, meaning they lie in the same plane but not on a straight line, thus ensuring the parallel alignment of the contact points to the surface.

[0016] The area refers to the surface on which the element to be adjusted is to be aligned. This can be a tabletop, a wall, or any other surface on which adjustment is required.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the signal generators can define a signal state in which at least one signal generator generates a signal and each of the respective contact points is in contact with the surface. Furthermore, the signal generators can define a tilt state in which no signal generator generates a signal and at least one of the respective contact points is not in contact with the surface.

[0018] In this case, "not in contact" can also mean that the contact points are touching the surface, but a limit value has not been exceeded. This limit value can be a pressure or a distance that the indicator must travel. However, other limit values ​​are also conceivable.

[0019] A signal state refers to a specific state of the alignment aid in which at least one of the signal transmitters generates a signal. This signal can be visual, audible, or other in nature and serves to indicate to the user that the contact points of the alignment aid are in correct contact with the surface. In other words, in the signal state, the alignment aid is properly aligned to position the element to be adjusted on the surface.

[0020] The tilt state is an alternative state of the alignment aid in which no sensor generates a signal and at least one of the contact points is not properly in contact with the surface. This may indicate misalignment or incorrect positioning of the alignment aid. The tilt state indicates to the user that the alignment was not performed correctly and adjustment may be necessary to correctly align the element being adjusted.

[0021] Overall, these two states serve to provide the user with clear feedback about the status of the alignment aid and its alignment on the surface. The signal state indicates successful alignment, while the tilt state indicates a potential misalignment or issue that needs to be addressed to ensure the desired precision and accuracy in the element's placement.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the adjustment aid further comprises an energy source, and the signal generator is connected to the energy source.

[0023] A power source refers to a device or mechanism that provides the necessary energy to maintain or enable the functionality of the alignment aid. This energy can be provided in the form of electrical energy, batteries, accumulators, solar cells, or other energy sources. In particular, the power source supplies the signaling device with the energy needed to generate signals that inform the user of the status of the alignment aid. In this configuration, the connection of the signaling device to the power source means that the signaling of the alignment aid is dependent on the provided energy. This enables the alignment aid to generate signals in the signal state, as previously described, to inform the user of correct alignment. The power source can also serve to maintain the functions of the alignment aid when it is operated continuously.

[0024] The connection between the signal generator and the power source ensures that the alignment aid has the necessary power for its tasks and is capable of continuously generating signals to assist the user in aligning elements on the surface. This feature helps ensure the effectiveness and reliability of the alignment aid, making it a useful tool for precise placement and alignment tasks.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the body further comprises a connection point, wherein the energy source is arranged in contact with the connection point in a captive manner.

[0026] The connection point is a specific location on the body of the alignment aid where a connection or interface is established. This connection point serves to connect the power source to the alignment aid and ensure that the power source is properly connected to the device.

[0027] The term "captive" means that the power source is securely and stably connected to the connection point and cannot easily be accidentally disconnected or lost. This is important to ensure that the power supply to the alignment aid remains reliable during operation.

[0028] Arranged in contact with the connection point means that the energy source is positioned so that it is in direct contact with the connection point on the body of the alignment aid or forms a close connection. This arrangement ensures a safe and stable energy transfer between the energy source and the alignment aid. According to one embodiment, the signal generated via the signal generator comprises electromagnetic radiation. Electromagnetic radiation refers to the propagation of electromagnetic waves, which span a wide range of wavelengths and frequencies, including visible light, infrared radiation, radio frequency, and many more.

[0029] The fact that the signal in this embodiment uses electromagnetic radiation means that the alignment aid uses light or other electromagnetic waves as a medium to transmit information to the user.

[0030] Choosing electromagnetic radiation as the signal medium can offer several advantages, including high precision, low interference from ambient conditions, and the ability to capture the signals visually or with special receivers. It allows the alignment aid to provide accurate and reliable information to assist the user in aligning elements on the surface.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the signal generated by the signal generator comprises a sound wave.

[0032] If the signal is in the form of a sound wave, this means that the alignment aid uses sound signals to convey information to the user. These sound waves can be audible tones that can be perceived by the human ear, or they can be ultrasonic waves, which are inaudible to the human ear but can be detected by special devices.

[0033] The use of sound waves as a signal in an alignment aid can be useful in various applications, such as in noisy environments where visual or electronic signals may be less effective. Sound-based signals can also be easily perceived by users with impaired vision or in situations where visibility is limited. According to one embodiment, at least one of the three signaling devices is configured such that, when the corresponding indicator is in contact with the surface via its respective contact point, a first state is defined in which the corresponding signaling device or multiple signaling devices are visible to a user.Furthermore, at least one of the three signal generators is configured such that, if the corresponding indicator is not in contact with the surface via its respective contact points, a second state is defined in which the corresponding signal generator does not emit a signal to a user.

[0034] When the corresponding indicator is in contact with the surface via its respective contact points, this defines the first state. In this state, the corresponding signaling device is visible to the user and emits signals or information. This means that the signaling device is active and generates perceptible indications, for example, in the form of light or sound. Thus, the first state corresponds to the signaling state. In this state, the signal represents the visibility of the signaling device.

[0035] If the corresponding indicator is not in contact with the surface via its respective contact points, this defines the second state. In this state, the corresponding signaling device is not visible to the user and does not emit any signals. This means that the signaling device is inactive. The second state thus corresponds to the tipping state, when at least one signaling device is inactive.

[0036] This functionality allows the alignment aid to respond to the contact status of the contact points on the surface. If the contact points are correctly positioned and in contact with the surface, they are visible to the user, indicating that the alignment is correct. However, if any of the indicators are not in contact with the surface, the corresponding signaling devices are deactivated and invisible to the user, indicating a possible misalignment.

[0037] This functionality contributes to the ease of use and efficiency of the alignment aid, as it provides clear indications of the alignment status and helps the user achieve the desired precision when placing elements on the surface. Furthermore, it makes it possible to transmit a signal to a user without a power source, for example, by protruding the signal transmitters from the body.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the corresponding indicator is designed as a pin, with the body having a corresponding opening. This means that the indicator has an elongated, cylindrical shape, typical of a pin. The pin serves to indicate the position of the indicator on the surface. The indicator is preferably arranged in a sliding manner in the corresponding opening, preferably in a captive manner.

[0039] The body of the alignment aid features a specially designed opening or recess. This opening is designed to precisely fit the indicator or pin, providing a secure and precise fit.

[0040] The indicator (pin) is designed and positioned in the corresponding opening so that it is movable or sliding, yet at the same time, it is securely mounted. This means that the indicator cannot be easily removed or lost from its position. It can move within the opening to respond to changes in the contact position with the surface, yet remains securely anchored in the alignment aid.

[0041] This arrangement allows the user to easily place the indicator (pin) into contact with the surface via the corresponding opening to perform the adjustment. The captive arrangement ensures that the indicator remains securely and securely in the adjustment aid and cannot be accidentally removed. This is important to ensure the reliability and user-friendliness of the adjustment aid.

[0042] According to one embodiment, the indicator is pre-tensioned via a spring element.

[0043] The spring element is a spring or spring system integrated into the adjustment aid and in direct contact with the indicator. The spring element can be designed to generate a restoring force that pushes or pulls the indicator into a specific position or initial position. The word "preloaded" means that the spring element loads the indicator in a predefined manner or acts in a way that moves the indicator in a specific direction. This preload can serve to bring the indicator into an initial position where it is at rest or where it touches the contact points with the surface.

[0044] The purpose of using a spring element to preload the indicator is to bring the indicator into a starting position, which serves as a reference point or starting point for the adjustment. When the user then applies the adjustment aid to the surface to be adjusted, they can observe the movement or orientation of the indicator, providing information about the alignment and positioning of the element on the surface.

[0045] The spring element contributes to the functionality and accuracy of the alignment aid by providing the user with a clear reference while allowing controlled movement of the indicator. This is especially useful in applications where precise alignment is required.

[0046] According to one embodiment, the body comprises an at least partially transparent material. In this embodiment, the body of the alignment aid is made of at least partially transparent material. This means that at least part of the body is made of a material that transmits or partially transmits light or other forms of electromagnetic radiation.

[0047] The use of transparent material in the body of the adjustment aid can serve several purposes.

[0048] The transparent material allows the user to see the interior of the alignment aid. This can be useful for monitoring the status of components, such as the indicator (pin), and ensuring they are functioning properly. Transparent material can be used to provide visual feedback or indicators inside the body. For example, LED lights or indicators could be visible to inform the user about the status of the alignment aid.

[0049] Transparent material can also be used for aesthetic reasons to make the design of the adjustment aid more appealing and achieve a modern look.

[0050] The transparent material can also serve to protect the internal components of the alignment aid from dust, dirt or external influences while maintaining visibility.

[0051] The use of partially transparent material in the body of the alignment aid can improve the user experience by providing the user with more information and control while supporting the design and functionality of the device.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the passage has a longitudinal axis and the longitudinal axis is orthogonal to the plane spanned by the three contact points.

[0053] In this embodiment, the longitudinal axis of the passage in the adjustment aid runs orthogonally to the plane spanned by the three contact points.

[0054] The passage is a channel or opening in the body of the adjustment aid through which the element to be adjusted is passed. This opening has a longitudinal axis that indicates the direction of the element's passage.

[0055] The longitudinal axis is an imaginary line or vector that describes the direction and orientation of the passage. In this case, the longitudinal axis of the passage runs in a direction perpendicular (orthogonal) to the plane spanned by the three contact points. The term "orthogonal" means that the longitudinal axis of the passage is perpendicular to the plane formed by the contact points on the surface. This means that the direction in which the element to be adjusted is guided through the passage is perpendicular to the surface on which the adjustment takes place.

[0056] This arrangement can be advantageous in certain applications to ensure that the element to be adjusted is moved in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the surface. This can help improve the precision and accuracy of the element's placement and alignment on the surface, especially when vertical alignment or movement is required. However, non-orthogonal arrangements of the longitudinal axis are also conceivable. The passage can also be designed to be adjustable for this purpose, for example, to allow angles of 45°.

[0057] According to one embodiment, the contact points are arranged in an equilateral triangle equidistant around the exit opening of the passage.

[0058] In this embodiment, the contact points are arranged so that they form an equilateral triangle around the exit opening of the passage and are positioned equidistant from each other.

[0059] An equilateral triangle is a special type of triangle in which all sides are equal in length and all angles are equal. This means that the three contact points are arranged to form the vertices of an equilateral triangle.

[0060] The word "equidistant" means that the distances between the contact points are equal. In this case, the distances between each contact point and the exit opening of the passage are the same length.

[0061] The exit aperture of the passage is the point at which the element to be adjusted exits the body of the alignment aid after passing through the passage. Arranging the contact points in an equilateral triangle with equidistant spacing around the exit aperture of the passage can help ensure consistent and precise alignment of the element to be adjusted. This symmetrical arrangement is useful for ensuring that the alignment aid monitors the contact points evenly and effectively informs the user of the element's positioning on the surface.

[0062] According to one embodiment, the body further comprises a port for a suction device, and the port is in fluid communication with the passageway. The suction removes the resulting dust or similar material removal in real time, keeping the work surface clean and requiring less cleaning effort.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the element is selected from a group consisting of, for example, drill, nail, screw or threaded rod.

[0064] A drill bit is a tool used for drilling holes in various materials such as wood, metal, or concrete. The alignment aid could be used to ensure the drill bit is aligned at a specific angle or position.

[0065] A nail is a metal pin typically used to secure materials by driving it into another material. The alignment aid could be used to place the nail in the desired position on the surface.

[0066] A screw is a threaded fastener that is screwed into a hole to connect two or more parts together. The alignment aid can be used to ensure the screw is driven straight and to the correct depth.

[0067] A threaded rod is an elongated rod with a thread that is used in various applications, such as hanging objects or securing construction projects. The adjustment aid could be used to hold and align the threaded rod in the desired position.

[0068] The selection from this group of elements demonstrates that the alignment aid can be versatile and serves to ensure precise placement and alignment of these various elements on a surface. Depending on the element selected, the alignment aid can meet different alignment and adjustment requirements.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the passage has an inner lining, wherein the inner lining is reversibly attachable in the passage.

[0070] In this embodiment, the passage of the adjustment aid has an inner lining that can be reversibly installed in the passage.

[0071] The passage is the channel or opening in the body of the adjustment aid through which the element to be adjusted is passed.

[0072] The interior lining is a layer or structure that can be placed inside the passageway. This lining can be made of various materials and serves to modify or adapt the interior of the passageway.

[0073] The word "reversible" means that the inner lining can be attached or installed in a way that allows it to be removed or modified later without permanently altering or damaging the passageway. This allows for flexible adjustment of the inner lining depending on the requirements of the adjustment aid.

[0074] The use of a reversibly attachable inner lining in the passage can serve various purposes. For example, the lining can be used to reduce friction between the element being adjusted and the passage, allowing the element to pass through smoothly. The lining can also help protect the surface of the passage or assist in the alignment of the element.

[0075] The ability to reversibly install the inner lining provides flexibility and adaptability in the use of the adjustment aid and allows it to be adapted to different applications without making permanent changes to the passage.

[0076] Furthermore, the adjustment aid can include a fastening mechanism such as a suction cup or a magnet. However, other fastening mechanisms are also conceivable.

[0077] The invention is explained below with reference to the figures of the drawings. The figures show:

[0078] Fig-1

[0079] In the figures, the same reference symbols denote identical or functionally identical components, unless otherwise stated.

[0080] Fig. 1 shows an alignment aid 10 for aligning an element relative to and on a surface. For this purpose, the alignment aid has a body 12, wherein the body 12 further has a passage 14 with an inlet opening 16 and an outlet opening 18. An element can be passed through the passage 14. Furthermore, the alignment aid 10 has three indicators 20, wherein the three indicators 20 each have a signal generator 22 and a contact point 24, and wherein the connection vectors of the contact points 24 are coplanar. The three indicators 20 are each connected to the body 12 in such a way that they can be brought into contact with a surface via the respective contact points 24. Furthermore, the three indicators 20 are configured such that, when the respective contact points 24 are in contact with the surface, a signal can be generated via the respective signal generators 22.

[0081] A signal state can be defined via the signal generators 22, in which at least one signal generator 22 generates a signal and each of the respective contact points 24 is in contact with the surface.

[0082] Furthermore, a tilting state can be defined via the signal generator 22, in which no signal generator generates a signal and at least one of the respective contact points 24 is not in contact with the surface.

[0083] These two states serve to provide the user with clear feedback about the status of the alignment aid and its alignment on the surface. The signal state indicates successful alignment, while the tilt state indicates a potential misalignment or issue that needs to be corrected to ensure the desired precision and accuracy in the element's placement.

[0084] The adjustment aid 10 further comprises an energy source 26, and the signal generator 22 is connected to the energy source 26.

[0085] In the embodiment shown, the body 12 further comprises a connection point 28, wherein the energy source 26 is arranged in contact with the connection point 28 in a captive manner.

[0086] Furthermore, the body 12 has a connection 30 for an extraction device, wherein the connection 30 is in fluid communication with the passage 14. The use of an extraction device minimizes the release of dust and pollutants into the environment, especially in enclosed spaces, which is important for air quality.

[0087] In the illustrated embodiment, the body 12 comprises an at least partially transparent material. This protects the indicator 20 from unwanted environmental influences and allows illumination of the entire body 20 through light diffusion. The signal state of the improved alignment aid thus indicates successful alignment, while the tilt state indicates a potential misalignment or problem.

[0088] This ensures the desired precision and accuracy when placing the element.

[0089] Although the present invention has been explained above using exemplary embodiments, it is not limited thereto but can be modified in a variety of ways. In particular, combinations of the above embodiments are also conceivable.

[0090] LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS

[0091] 10 Adjustment aid

[0092] 12 bodies

[0093] 14 Passage 16 Entrance opening

[0094] 18 Exit opening

[0095] 20 indicators

[0096] 22 signal generators

[0097] 24 contact points 26 energy source

[0098] 28 Junction

[0099] 30 Connection for suction device

[0100] 32 Interior lining

Claims

CLAIMS 1. An alignment aid (10) for aligning an element relative to and on a surface, comprising a body (12), the body (12) having a passage (14) with an inlet opening (16) and an outlet opening (18), an element being able to pass through the passage (14), three indicators (20), the three indicators (20) each having a signal generator (22) and a contact point (24), and the connection vectors of the contact points (24) being coplanar, the three indicators (20) each being connected to the body (12) in such a way that they can be brought into contact with a surface via the respective contact points (24), the three indicators (20) being configured such that, when the respective contact points (24) are in contact with the surface, a signal can be generated via the respective signal generators (22).

2. Adjustment aid (10) according to claim 1, wherein a signal state can be defined via the signal generators (22), in which at least one signal generator (22) generates a signal and each of the respective contact points (24) is in contact with the surface, and wherein a tilt state can be defined via the signal generators (22), in which no signal generator generates a signal and at least one of the respective contact points (24) is not in contact with the surface.

3. Adjustment aid (10) according to one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the adjustment aid (10) further comprises an energy source (26), and wherein the signal generator (22) is connected to the energy source (26).

4. Adjustment aid (10) according to claim 3, wherein the body (12) further comprises a connection point (28), wherein the energy source (26) is arranged in a captive contact with the connection point (28).

5. Adjustment aid (10) according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the signal generated via the signal generator (22) comprises electromagnetic radiation.

6. Adjustment aid (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the signal generated via the signal generator (22) comprises a sound wave.

7. Adjustment aid (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the three signal transmitters (22) is arranged such that, when the corresponding indicator (20) is in contact with the surface via its respective contact point (24), a first state is defined in which the corresponding signal transmitter (22) is visible to a user, and when the corresponding indicator (20) is not in contact with the surface via its respective contact points (24), a second state is defined in which the corresponding signal transmitter (22) is not visible to a user.

8. Adjustment aid (10) according to claim 7, wherein the corresponding indicator (20) is designed as a pin, wherein the body (12) has a corresponding opening, and wherein the indicator (20) is arranged in the corresponding opening in a captive sliding manner.

9. Adjustment aid (10) according to claim 8, wherein the indicator (20) is prestressed via a spring element.

10. Adjustment aid (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the body (12) comprises an at least partially transparent material.

11. Adjustment aid (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the passage (14) has a longitudinal axis and the longitudinal axis is orthogonal to the plane spanned by the three contact points (24).

12. Adjustment aid (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the contact points (24) are arranged in an equilateral triangle equidistant around the exit opening (18) of the passage (14).

13. Adjustment aid (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the body (12) further comprises a connection (30) for a suction device, and wherein the connection (30) is in fluid communication with the passage (14).

14. Adjustment aid (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the element is selected from a group consisting of: drill, nail, screw, and threaded rod.

15. Adjustment aid (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the passage (14) has an inner lining (32), wherein the inner lining (32) is reversibly attachable in the passage (14).

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