Universal Digital Tape Measure Mounting for Power Tool Accuracy

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing digital tape measures face issues with accuracy degradation over time, complex user interfaces, increased size and bulkiness, reliance on separate devices, limited applicability to specific power tools, and increased points of failure due to multiple device integration.

Innovation Solution

A digital tape measure with a mounting system that is functional with and without a power tool, interchangeable between multiple tools, features a simple interface, and includes a controller with various modes for enhanced precision and accuracy, along with a lock mechanism to prevent blade unspooling and a mount assembly for secure attachment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If digital tape measure is integrated into power tool structure, then measurement function is available for that specific tool, but the digital tape measure cannot be used with other tools or as standalone device

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveapplicabilityVSAvoidintegration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The digital tape measure is designed with a universal mounting system that allows it to be attached to multiple different power tools through standardized interfaces. The housing includes mounting features that can interface with various tool types, enabling the same digital tape measure unit to serve multiple functions across different applications rather than being dedicated to a single tool.

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

2Ease of operation

If housing size is increased to provide more interface area, then user interface complexity is reduced, but the digital tape measure occupies more space on tool belt or toolbox

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinterface simplicityVSAvoidhousing volume
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The user interface elements are arranged in a compact configuration on the housing surface, utilizing vertical and lateral spacing efficiently. The display and control elements are positioned to be easily accessible without requiring a large housing footprint, optimizing the distribution of interface components across available surface area rather than expanding overall device volume.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Measurement precision

If multiple devices are integrated to provide comprehensive measurement functionality, then measurement capabilities are enhanced, but the number of points of failure increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement accuracyVSAvoidsystem reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The digital tape measure integrates the display, control electronics, measurement sensing, and mounting functions into a single unified device. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate components such as external displays or multiple sensors, thereby reducing the number of potential failure points while maintaining comprehensive measurement capabilities through integrated design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS20250369740A1Digital tape measure and mounting system
Publication Date: 2025.12.04 ANDERSEN ETHAN
  • US20250369740A1 patent drawing
  • US20250369740A1 patent drawing
  • US20250369740A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A tape measure assembly and mount system may include a housing assembly having an enclosure with a tape assembly spooled within. An assembly may include the housing assembly having an interface in electronic communication with a controller within the enclosure. An assembly may include the controller having at least one mode selected from a group consisting of a tape/blade distance mode, and an implement distance mode. A mount system may include a first mount and a second mount selectively connected to one another, which may be configured to selectively mount to a power tool and more particularly, may attach to a fence of a power tool.