Digital T-Bevel With Encoder Readout
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sliding T bevels require the use of a separate protractor for measuring the angle between the handle and blade, which is inconvenient and can lead to inaccuracies, especially when trying to achieve precise measurements like one-tenth of a degree.
Innovation Solution
A digital T bevel with a blade and handle housing that includes a digital display, where a guide member connected to an encoder provides input signals to an electronic circuit to directly display the angle between the handle and blade, eliminating the need for a protractor and improving measurement accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a protractor is used with a conventional sliding T bevel to measure the angle between the handle and blade, then the angle measurement can be obtained, but the process requires two tools and separate measurement steps which is inconvenient and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the angle measurement function directly into the T bevel by integrating an encoder and digital display system. The encoder detects the angular position of the handle relative to the blade, and the digital display shows the measured angle, eliminating the need for a separate protractor and streamlining the measurement process into a single tool operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The T bevel becomes self-sufficient for angle measurement through the integrated encoder and display system. The device automatically measures and displays the angle without requiring external measurement tools, making the system self-service capable and reducing operational complexity.
2Measurement precision
If a mechanical protractor is used to measure the angle between the handle and blade, then the measurement process is simple, but the accuracy is insufficient to achieve precise measurements like one-tenth of a degree
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical protractor system with an electronic encoder-based measurement system. The encoder uses electronic sensing to detect angular position, providing higher precision measurements capable of achieving one-tenth of a degree or better accuracy, while the digital display presents the measurement results clearly.
3Measurement precision
If a digital protractor is used to provide accurate angle readout, then measurement accuracy improves, but the requirement to use two tools (digital protractor and T bevel) increases device complexity and operational inconvenience
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the digital display and encoder systems directly into the T bevel structure. This integration allows the T bevel to function as a self-contained measurement device that provides accurate digital angle readout without requiring a separate digital protractor, thereby maintaining high measurement precision while improving operational convenience by reducing the number of tools needed.
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 direct numerical readout of the angle between the handle and blade, reducing errors and the need for multiple tools, while providing more accurate measurements than conventional mechanical protractors.
Implementation Method 1
A guide member rides in the slot and is connected to the first part of an encoder that provides input signals to an electronic circuit that drives the display. A second part of the encoder is fixedly mounted to the handle housing.
Data Source
AI summary
A digital T-bevel has a blade with a slot along a part of its length and a handle having an end that is mounted both to move along the length of the slot and to pivot with respect to the blade longitudinal axis. The handle also includes an encoder to measure the angle of the handle relative to the blade longitudinal axis and the necessary electronic circuitry to convert the measured angle into digital form to drive a display to visually display the numerical value of the measured angle.