Method and system for gondola alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for aligning gondola assembly slots are time-consuming and labor-intensive, requiring users to manually adjust levelling screws with limited access, leading to difficulties in maintaining proper alignment and causing user strain due to frequent bending and standing.
Innovation Solution
A levelling assembly that includes a levelling bit with a countersinking mechanism for engaging levelling screws and an alignment measuring system using a retractable cord with bars to determine alignment, allowing for quick measurement and adjustment without the need for constant bending, utilizing a drill with an extender for convenient rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional manual adjustment methods are used with limited access to levelling screws, then the structural integrity and load-bearing capacity are maintained, but the alignment process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a telescoping rod that extends through the base structure, allowing the user to access the levelling screw from a distant position (standing height) rather than requiring direct access at base level. This dimensional extension transforms the operation from ground-level manual adjustment to elevated remote adjustment, dramatically improving both productivity and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The telescoping rod acts as an intermediary tool between the user and the levelling screw. Instead of directly manipulating the screw at base level, the user operates the levelling screw through the extended rod mechanism from a convenient standing position, making the adjustment process faster and easier while maintaining structural integrity.
2Measurement precision
If conventional alignment measurement methods using rope and multiple wrenches are used, then alignment accuracy can be achieved, but the process requires constant bending and standing which causes user strain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the measurement function from the complex rope-and-wrench system and integrates it directly into the telescoping rod assembly. The rod itself serves as both the adjustment mechanism and the measurement reference, eliminating the need for separate measurement tools and the associated bending/standing operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the alignment measurement function with the levelling adjustment function into a single integrated telescoping rod system. Instead of using separate tools for measurement (rope) and adjustment (wrenches), the rod performs both functions, allowing the user to maintain a comfortable standing posture throughout the entire process while achieving precise alignment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate tools (wrenches, rope, screwdrivers) are used for alignment, then comprehensive adjustment capability is achieved, but the device complexity and time required increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The telescoping rod is designed as a universal tool that performs multiple functions: it provides structural support, enables remote access to the levelling screw, serves as a measurement reference for alignment, and transmits rotational force for adjustment. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple separate tools while maintaining comprehensive adjustment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The telescoping rod is segmented into extendable sections that can be adjusted to different lengths as needed. This segmentation allows the tool to adapt to various gondola configurations and access requirements while remaining a single integrated device rather than multiple separate tools.
Data Source
AI summary
A leveling assembly including a levelling bit with a first portion that engages a screw head of a levelling screw in a base of a gondola assembly and a second portion that countersinks around a portion of the leveling screw. The levelling assembly further includes an alignment measuring system configured to measure alignment of slots in the gondola assembly. The alignment measuring system includes a first bar attached to a retractable cord and a second bar movable along the cord. The first bar is shaped for insertion into a first slot of a first upright and the second bar is shaped for insertion into a second slot of a second upright. The cord is shaped to extend along a face of a third upright between the first and second upright when the first bar is inserted into the first slot and the second bar is inserted into the second slot.