Hinged Modular Level Bodies for Corner and Angle Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional carpenter levels are unable to level around corners or between adjoining walls or from one portion of a roof to another, limiting their functionality.
Innovation Solution
A modular level multitool with hinged level bodies that allow angular adjustment and locking at specific angles, featuring slotted hinge inserts, quick disconnect tabs, and a lock-in positioner mechanism for flexible use and increased straight line length, made from lightweight materials like aluminum or plastic, with integrated rules, magnets, and optional tool mounts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional carpenter levels are used, then the device is simple and easy to manufacture, but it cannot level around corners or between adjoining walls
Solution Approach 1:
The level is divided into multiple separate level bodies (first level body, second level body, third level body) that can be independently positioned and connected. Each level body contains its own level vial, allowing them to function independently or in combination to level around corners and between adjoining walls.
Solution Approach 2:
The level bodies are designed to nest within each other when not in use, with smaller level bodies fitting inside larger ones. This nesting arrangement reduces storage space requirements while maintaining the ability to deploy multiple level bodies for corner leveling applications.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple level bodies are connected with hinges, then the level can articulate at different angles for versatile positioning, but the device becomes more complex and harder to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The hinges connect the level bodies in a dynamic configuration that allows them to articulate relative to each other. The hinges enable the level bodies to be positioned at various angles while maintaining stable connections, providing dynamic adaptability for different leveling scenarios including corner and ceiling applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge system is implemented as a separate connecting component rather than being integrated into the level bodies themselves. This segmentation allows the hinges to be manufactured independently and attached to standard level bodies, simplifying the overall manufacturing process while still enabling angular adjustment capability.
3Weight of moving object
If the level bodies are made from lightweight materials, then the tool is easier to handle and transport, but the structural strength may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The level bodies are constructed from composite materials that combine lightweight properties with adequate structural strength. This allows the multi-body level to be easily handled and transported while maintaining the structural integrity needed to support the level vials and withstand normal usage conditions.
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 leveling around corners and between structures, enhancing usability and versatility on job sites by allowing multiple users to quickly assemble and disassemble the tool, and accommodating various angles and tools for comprehensive leveling tasks.
Implementation Method 1
each hinge insert comprises a quick disconnect tab, preferably spring-loaded, that is received in an opening in the level body in which it is installed
Implementation Method 2
each hinge comprises a lock-in positioner mechanism to releasably lock the level bodies connected via each respective hinge in one or more discreet angles between two respective level bodies connected via each hinge
Implementation Method 3
each hinge comprises two slotted hinge inserts defining slots and openings fastened together by hinge bars, also defining openings, disposed in the slots and bolts inserted in the respective openings in the hinge inserts and hinge bars
Implementation Method 4
one or more sides of one or more of the plurality of level bodies has a magnet affixed thereon or built therein
Data Source
AI summary
A level multitool, comprising a plurality level bodies, wherein each of the plurality of level bodies comprises at least one level, bubble level or spirit level and wherein each of the plurality of level bodies is removably connected to another of the plurality of level bodies by a hinge such that a first level body connected by a first hinge can articulate with respect to a second level body connected thereto via the first hinge so that the first and second level bodies may be releasably locked by the first hinge in a plurality of positions wherein an angle between the first and second level bodies at each position is different than the angle therebetween at each of the other plurality of positions.