Integral Angle Finder Layout for Dual-Surface Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing measurement devices lack versatility in angle finding capabilities and are limited to specific stud widths, while conventional spirit levels and ladders require improvements for ease of use and transportation.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of an integral angle finder in measurement devices for dual-surface use and stud slot reduction mechanisms in spirit levels for accommodating various stud widths, along with a caster device pair for easy ladder movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If measurement devices are designed for conventional use only, then the device structure remains simple, but the angle finding capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a bubble vial and an angle finder into a single integrated measurement device. The bubble vial is positioned within the angle finder body, allowing both inclination measurement and angle finding functions to be performed with one device, thereby improving versatility without significantly increasing overall structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement device is designed to perform multiple functions: it can measure inclination angles using the bubble vial when placed on a horizontal surface, and it can function as an angle finder by placing a major body surface on a flat surface. This multi-functionality addresses the limitation of conventional devices that are restricted to specific uses
2Adaptability or versatility
If spirit levels are designed for one standard stud width only, then the device structure remains simple, but the adaptability to different stud widths is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The spirit level incorporates adjustable stud slots that can be repositioned or resized to accommodate different stud widths. This dynamic adjustability allows the same spirit level to work with various stud widths (e.g., 40mm, 50mm, 60mm) rather than being fixed for a single width, thereby improving adaptability while maintaining reasonable structural simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The stud slot is designed as a segmented or adjustable component rather than a fixed structure. This segmentation allows the slot width to be modified to match different stud widths, enabling the spirit level to accommodate multiple stud width standards without requiring multiple dedicated tools
3Ease of operation
If ladders are designed without caster devices, then the structure remains simple, but the ease of movement requires lifting the entire weight
Solution Approach 1:
Caster devices are introduced as intermediary components attached to the ladder feet. These casters act as mediators between the ladder and the ground surface, allowing the ladder to be moved by rolling rather than lifting. The caster wheel transfers the movement function from direct human lifting to a rolling mechanism, significantly improving ease of operation while adding only minimal structural complexity
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
Enhances angle finding capability, accommodates multiple stud widths, and facilitates ladder movement without lifting, improving usability and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
a bubble vial for indicating an inclination of a generally horizontal flat surface
Implementation Method 2
The stud slots can be provided with magnets for hands free setting a spaced apart pair of adjacent upright metal studs
Data Source
AI summary
Measurement devices for measuring and marking purposes and including an integral angle finder for enabling two modes of use: placing either major body surface on a flat surface or setting a base on an inclined surface for indicating its inclination. Spirit levels for setting a spaced apart pair of adjacent upright studs of more than one standard stud width at a standard stud separation between the midpoints of spaced apart pair or upright studs. Caster device pair for use with a ladder having a stabilizer for enabling wheeling the ladder while being held generally horizontal by a user for assisting moving the ladder without having to lift its entire weight.