Grade-Leveling Tool Using Hydrostatic Barometer for Elevation Precision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for creating a level bed of ground for supporting structures lack precision in measuring and achieving the desired elevation, as they do not effectively account for the difference between the desired and existing ground elevations.
Innovation Solution
A grade-leveling tool comprising a base structure, a reservoir structure, and a hose structure, which forms a fluidic connection to measure the difference in elevations by using a working fluid to create a vertical barometer, allowing for precise identification of identical elevations throughout the reach of a transparent hose.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional leveling methods are used, then the process is simple, but the measurement precision of elevation difference is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a hydraulic principle by filling a transparent hose with working fluid (water) and connecting it to a reservoir. The fluid level in the hose indicates the elevation difference between two points, providing precise measurement through fluid pressure equilibrium. This hydraulic approach transforms a complex precision measurement task into a simple visual reading.
Solution Approach 2:
The transparent hose filled with working fluid acts as an intermediary between the two elevation points being measured. The fluid transmits the elevation difference information visually, allowing precise measurement without direct contact between the measurement device and both points simultaneously.
2Reliability
If the reservoir structure is elevated above the ground, then the working fluid can be properly contained and measured, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The base structure elevates the reservoir to a height that ensures the working fluid remains contained within the system and establishes a reliable reference level. By positioning the reservoir at an elevated equipotential position, the system ensures proper fluid containment and pressure equilibrium throughout the hose, improving measurement reliability.
3Measurement precision
If atmospheric gases are expelled from the working fluid, then the measurement accuracy improves, but the operation time required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is designed to allow preliminary expulsion of atmospheric gases from the working fluid before actual measurement begins. The transparent hose and reservoir configuration enables easy gas removal through simple operations such as filling from the bottom or using air bubbles to displace trapped gases, ensuring measurement accuracy is achieved quickly without complex procedures.
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 precise measurement and adjustment of ground elevations, ensuring a level bed for structure support by marking the headroom between the working fluid and the closed end of the transparent hose, thereby facilitating accurate leveling.
Implementation Method 1
The grade-leveling tool forms a vertical barometer. The grade-leveling tool measures the difference between: a) a desired elevation from the ground at a specific location; and, b) the existing elevation of the ground.
Implementation Method 2
The reservoir is then opened to the atmosphere to form the vertical barometer. The headroom between the working fluid and the closed end of the transparent hose is marked such that the identical elevation can be identified throughout the reach of the transparent hose.
Data Source
AI summary
The grade-leveling tool is a measurement device. The grade-leveling tool forms a vertical barometer. The grade-leveling tool measures the difference between: a) a desired elevation from the ground at a specific location; and, b) the existing elevation of the ground. The grade-leveling tool is used to create a bed of level ground used for supporting a structure. The grade-leveling tool comprises a base structure, a reservoir structure, and a hose structure. The hose structure and the reservoir structure attach to the base structure. A fluidic connection is formed between the reservoir structure and the hose structure. The base structure elevates the reservoir structure and the hose structure above the ground.