Adjustable Angle Measuring Device with Optical Projection and Extendable Arms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing angle measuring devices require skilled operators, are prone to reading and parallax errors, have non-adjustable arms that hinder access to difficult-to-reach areas, and can only measure angles between two surfaces.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable angle-measuring device with extendable arms, a marking member, an arcuate tracking member, locking element, and support channels that allow for accurate angle measurement between multiple surfaces without requiring extensive skill, featuring detachable extension members and a locking mechanism to prevent movement during measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If Vernier scales are used for added accuracy, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and operator skill requirement increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical reading systems (Vernier scales) with a simple optical projection system. A light source projects the scale markings directly onto a surface, allowing the user to read measurements directly without requiring skilled interpretation of Vernier scale alignments. This substitution of mechanical reading with optical projection maintains measurement precision while dramatically reducing device complexity and operator skill requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a visual copy of the scale markings by projecting them onto a surface using light. Instead of requiring the user to directly read and interpret scale markings on the device itself, the system creates an enlarged, clear visual copy that can be read easily. This copying approach improves readability and measurement accuracy while simplifying the interaction between user and device.
2Ease of manufacture
If fixed-length arms are used, then device structure is simplified, but adaptability to different measurement scenarios is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements adjustable arm lengths that can be extended or retracted based on measurement requirements. The arms contain internal mechanisms allowing them to change length dynamically, transforming a static structure into an adaptive one. This enables the device to accommodate various measurement scenarios while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure when not in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs nested extension members that slide within the main arms. When not needed, the extension members are retracted inside the arms, creating a compact form. When measurement requires greater reach, the extensions are deployed outward. This nesting approach allows the device to adapt to different measurement scenarios without significantly increasing its stored size or structural complexity.
3Device complexity
If non-adjustable arms are used, then device structure is simplified, but accessibility to difficult-to-reach areas is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements adjustable arm lengths that can be extended or retracted based on measurement requirements. The arms contain internal mechanisms allowing them to change length dynamically, transforming a static structure into an adaptive one. This enables the device to accommodate various measurement scenarios while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure when not in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides each arm into modular segments: a main arm body and detachable extension members. These segments can be independently adjusted, extended, or removed based on the specific measurement task. This segmentation allows the device to reach difficult areas when needed while maintaining simplicity for routine measurements, giving users flexibility to configure the arm length to match the accessibility requirements of the measurement location.
4Device complexity
If single-purpose measurement is designed, then device complexity is reduced, but versatility for measuring multiple surfaces is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the device with universal capabilities to measure multiple surfaces and angles through its adjustable arm configuration. The marking member can be positioned to measure angles between different surface combinations (wall-to-wall, wall-to-ceiling, etc.), and the extensions can be attached to either arm, creating multiple measurement configurations. This multi-functionality is achieved without significantly increasing device complexity by leveraging the existing adjustable components in different arrangements.
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable angle-measuring device comprises first and second linear arms, a marking member, an arcuate tracking member, a locking element, and at least two support channels. The first linear arm comprises first and second ends. The first end of the first linear arm is rigidly attached perpendicular to a first end of the second linear arm. The marking member is detachably attached to an intersecting surface of the first and second linear arms to form a pivot. The marking member moves along the arcuate tracking member to determine an angular measurement between the first linear arm and the marking member and the second linear arm and the marking member. The marking member comprises a locking element to lock the marking member to the arcuate tracking member. Each of the support channels are positioned at the second ends of the first and second linear arms to detachably attach extension members.