Adjustable Measuring Tool With Rotating Sliding Member

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional carpenter's squares lack versatility and accuracy in marking and cutting multiple identical cuts, particularly in complex construction projects, as they are limited to fixed angles and measurements, making it difficult to achieve precise and repeatable cuts in various materials like wood and sheet rock.

Innovation Solution

A measuring tool with a body formed of planar rigid material, featuring a 90-degree and 45-degree angled segments, a removable cutting edge portion, and a sliding member that can be rotated and positioned for precise measurements and cutting, allowing for repeatable and accurate marking and cutting of materials with multiple configurations, including use as a depth gauge and plumb bob.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional carpenter's squares are used with fixed angles and measurements, then the device structure is simple, but the versatility and accuracy in marking and cutting multiple identical cuts are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveversatility in marking and cuttingVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The measuring tool is divided into multiple body segments (first body segment, second body segment, third body segment) that can be independently positioned and configured. Each segment provides specific measuring edges and reference surfaces, allowing the tool to be adapted to various measuring and marking tasks while maintaining a manageable overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The measuring tool is designed to perform multiple functions including measuring distances, marking cut lines, providing reference surfaces for cutting, and guiding saws for repeatable cuts. The combination of multiple body segments with different orientations and the sliding member enables the tool to serve as both a measuring device and a cutting guide.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Manufacturing precision

If fixed angles and measurements are used in conventional carpenter's squares, then the device is easy to manufacture, but the precision and accuracy in achieving repeatable cuts are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprecision in marking and cuttingVSAvoidease of manufacture
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The sliding member can be adjusted to different positions along the first body segment and locked in place, allowing dynamic adjustment of the measuring reference. This enables precise positioning for different cut depths and angles while maintaining stability during the cutting process, achieving both precision and ease of adjustment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the traditional fixed mechanical structure of conventional squares with a system that combines fixed body segments and an adjustable sliding member. This allows for precise mechanical positioning and repeatable measurements while maintaining ease of manufacture through modular components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple body segments and sliding members are added to increase versatility, then the adaptability improves, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfigurability for different cutsVSAvoidnumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple body segments (first, second, and third body segments) are connected to form an integrated measuring tool structure. The sliding member is combined with these segments to create a unified device that provides both measuring and guiding functions, reducing the need for separate tools while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS20230408238A1Construction Measuring Tool
Publication Date: 2023.12.21 RAY FRANK
  • US20230408238A1 patent drawing
  • US20230408238A1 patent drawing
  • US20230408238A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A measuring tool is provided which includes a sliding member which is in a rotational sliding engagement to the body of the tool. The sliding member is positionable for measuring distances between a first end thereof and a first body segment. A second body segment extends perpendicular from a first end of the first body segment and a third body segment extends at a 45 degree angle from a second end of the first body segment opposite the first end thereof.