Adjustable Square With Stepwise And Stepless Angle Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing adjustable squares can only be set to specific angles or adjusted stepwise, lacking the ability to be set to any angle like a bevel square, limiting their versatility in carpentry applications.
Innovation Solution
A stepwise and stepless adjustable square design featuring a rotatable blade with a spring device and alignment structures, where a knob allows for both stepwise and stepless adjustments by altering the frictional engagement between the blade and stock, enabling precise angle settings from fixed to arbitrary angles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If an indexing mechanism with profiled plates and spring member is used for stepwise adjustment, then the square can be locked at specific angles, but the square cannot be adjusted to any arbitrary angle
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces a dynamic adjustment mechanism where a movable element can shift between two positions: one engaging with the indexing mechanism for stepwise adjustment and another disengaging to allow continuous rotation. This dynamic switching capability resolves the contradiction by enabling both precise locked positions and arbitrary angle settings through a single unified structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable element serves multiple functions: it acts as a locking element when engaged with the indexing mechanism for stepwise adjustment, and as a release mechanism when disengaged to enable continuous rotation. This multi-functionality allows the square to perform both precise angle setting and arbitrary angle adjustment, resolving the limitation of fixed functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a bevel square design with screw loosening is used for continuous angle adjustment, then any angle can be set, but the mechanism becomes more complex and harder to lock precisely
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the adjustment mechanism into distinct functional components: an indexing mechanism for precise angular positions, a movable element for switching between locked and free states, and a spring member for providing locking force. This segmentation allows continuous rotation capability while maintaining simple, distinct locking and adjustment functions, reducing overall complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the blade and stock are made with friction engagement for stepless adjustment, then continuous angle setting is possible, but the alignment precision and locking reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The movable element acts as an intermediary between the blade and stock, providing a controlled friction engagement mechanism. When engaged with the indexing mechanism, it transmits precise positioning forces; when disengaged, it allows free rotation with minimal friction. This intermediary component resolves the contradiction by enabling both continuous adjustment and reliable locking through controlled friction management.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The square provides both stepwise and stepless adjustments, enhancing its versatility for various carpentry tasks, such as setting up perpendicular studs and transferring arbitrary angles like roof pitches, with a compact and easy-to-use mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
a spring device which in conjunction with a spring expansion-restricting element of the adjustable square is adapted to axially press the second alignment structure towards the first alignment structure
Implementation Method 2
the spring device due to the likewise moved spring expansion-restricting element is compressed and urges a first surface associated with the blade into (stronger) frictional engagement with a second surface associated with the stock for stepless adjustment
Data Source
AI summary
A stepwise and stepless adjustable square for use in carpentry, including: a stock; a blade; a first alignment structure; a second alignment structure; a spring device; a spring expansion-restricting element; and a knob movable between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position the first and second alignment structures at certain angles between the stock and the blade align and engage such that a force of the spring device is reduced compared to the force at angles where the first and second alignment structures do not align for stepwise adjustment, and wherein in the second position the first alignment structure is moved axially away from the second alignment structure for stepless adjustment.