Clamping Indicator Tool With Spring-Loaded Arms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing construction tools, such as carpenter's bubble levels, are inadequate for hands-free measurement of level, plumb, and slope, as they require manual operation and lack accuracy and repeatability in setting items at specific angles.
Innovation Solution
A clamping indicator tool with spring-loaded clamping arms and a versatile tool plate that includes level, plumb, and slope indicators, allowing secure clamping to various items and enabling hands-free operation, with optional slope measurement capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a standard carpenter's bubble level is used, then level/plumb measurement is possible, but hands-free operation is not achievable and slope measurement is inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The tool plate integrates multiple measurement functions (level, plumb, and slope indicators) into a single device, allowing the tool to perform various measurement tasks without requiring multiple separate tools. This enables hands-free operation while maintaining versatile measurement capabilities across different construction scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping mechanism acts as an intermediary between the user and the measurement function, securing the tool to the workpiece to enable hands-free operation. The clamp handles and spring-loaded arms provide a mechanical interface that holds the tool plate steady while the user performs other tasks.
2Measurement precision
If a bubble level is used for level/plumb measurement, then basic measurement is possible, but accuracy and repeatability for slope setting is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement system is divided into separate functional components on the tool plate: a level indicator for horizontal measurement, a plumb indicator for vertical measurement, and a slope indicator for angular measurement. Each indicator is independently positioned and calibrated, allowing precise measurement of different parameters without requiring a single complex mechanism.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate tools are used for level, plumb, and slope measurement, then comprehensive measurement capability is achieved, but device portability and ease of transport is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines level, plumb, and slope measurement functions into a single integrated tool plate that attaches to one clamping mechanism. This consolidation reduces the total weight and number of separate tools needed, while maintaining comprehensive measurement capability across all three functions.
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 secure, hands-free measurement and adjustment of level, plumb, and slope on a variety of items, improving operational efficiency and accuracy in construction tasks.
Implementation Method 1
The clamping arms are actuated by a set of clamp handles that are spring loaded so as to automatically close the clamping arms and clamping paws around an item when the user releases the clamp handles
Data Source
AI summary
A clamping indicator tool utilizes a clamping mechanism having a set of clamping arms and optionally a number of clamping paws. The clamping arms and paws can grasp and hold onto a wide variety of items to ensure that the clamping mechanism is secured to the item. The clamping arms are actuated by a set of clamp handles that are spring loaded so as to automatically close the clamping arms and clamping paws around an item when the user releases the clamp handles. In one embodiment, a tool plate fits over the clamp handles and removably engages with the clamp. Mounted onto the tool plate is a level indicator and a plumb indicator. In an alternate embodiment a slope plate mounts on the clamp in place of the tool plate. In this embodiment, a slope indicator is present on the slope plate and allows the tool to indicate slope.