Adjustable Alignment Tool With Rotating Arms And Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for marking positions on a surface, such as walls, for drilling or nailing require multiple tools and can be error-prone, especially when marking multiple points equidistant apart, and existing templates are non-adjustable and limited in use.
Innovation Solution
An alignment device with rotatable longitudinal arms connected to a hub, featuring a locking mechanism and spirit levels, allowing for precise and adjustable marking of up to four points along horizontal and vertical axes, with telescopic extensions and movable indicators for accurate marking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple tools (spirit level, ruler) are used to mark horizontal points, then marking capability is achieved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple marking tools into a single integrated device. The spirit level and ruler functions are merged into one tool with arms that can be adjusted and locked at specific angles, eliminating the need to use separate spirit level and ruler tools simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The marking tool is designed to perform multiple functions: it can mark horizontal points, vertical points, and angled points using the same device. The arms can be configured in different positions and locked to create various marking geometries, making the tool universal for different marking tasks.
2Manufacturing precision
If a paper template is used to achieve accurate marking, then manufacturing precision improves, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic, adjustable arms that can be rotated and locked at various angles rather than a fixed paper template. The arms can be positioned and secured at different orientations, allowing the same tool to adapt to multiple marking requirements while maintaining precision through the locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool is divided into separate adjustable arms that can be independently positioned and locked. This segmentation allows each arm to be configured for specific marking requirements while maintaining overall structural integrity and precision through individual locking mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If arms are made rotatable for flexibility, then adaptability improves, but reliability deteriorates due to potential positioning errors
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to secure the arms at their desired positions before marking begins. By pre-locking the arms at specific angles and positions, the tool ensures consistent and reliable positioning is maintained throughout the marking process, preventing drift or accidental movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool incorporates visual indicators such as index marks or alignment features that provide feedback on arm positioning. These indicators allow the user to verify that the arms are correctly positioned and locked, ensuring reliability and accuracy before and during the marking operation.
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
Enables accurate and efficient marking of multiple points on a surface with adjustable spacing, ensuring level and plumb alignment, reducing errors and tool complexity while allowing for compact storage and easy use.
Implementation Method 1
The or each spirit level may be on or associated with the handle. The device may comprise first and second spirit levels, one oriented vertical and the other horizontal.
Data Source
AI summary
An alignment tool 1 for use in marking a surface is disclosed. The tool comprises a handle 6, two pairs of longitudinal arms 2,4 and 3,5 each rotatably mounted in the region of their longitudinal centres to a rotational mechanism provided in or on the handle. The rotational mechanism is arranged such that, in use, movement of one of the pairs in a first rotational direction results in movement of the other pair in the counter direction by substantially the same angle. Each of the arms carries at least one movable marking indicator 50, 53. A user-operable locking mechanism is on or associated with the handle, the locking mechanism being configured selectively to prevent and enable rotation of the arms.