Integrated Electronic Level for Wall Hangings Using Inverted Signaling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional electronic leveling tools are obtrusive and emit signals when level, failing to provide a discreet and user-perceptible indication of off-level conditions for wall hangings like picture frames, especially when not in use.

Innovation Solution

A compact electronic level device integrated with wall hangings, featuring a power supply and a signal element that generates a perceptible output only when the device is oriented at a selected acute angle relative to the horizontal axis, using a level indicating switch with conductive liquid and electrical contacts to activate the signal upon tilting, and an optional user-activated switch for deactivation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If conventional electronic leveling tools are used, then level indication is provided, but the device becomes obtrusive and emits signals when level

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelevel indicationVSAvoiddevice obtrusiveness

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent inverts the conventional signaling logic by making the device emit a signal only when off-level rather than when level. This is achieved through an inverted level switch configuration where the signal element is connected to electrical ground through a switch that closes only when the device is tilted beyond a predetermined angle, causing the signal element to illuminate and indicate the off-level condition.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts only the essential level indication function from conventional electronic levels, eliminating unnecessary features such as multi-color LED lighting and sequential illumination patterns. This extraction allows the device to be compact and unobtrusive while still providing clear level indication through a simple illuminated signal element.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Measurement precision

If spirit level configuration is used for wall hangings, then level indication is provided, but close viewing is required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelevel detectionVSAvoiduser perception distance

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical spirit level system with an electronic sensing system comprising a level indicating switch and an illuminated signal element. This substitution transforms the level indication from a mechanical bubble position that requires close viewing to an optical signal that can be perceived from a distance, while maintaining precise level detection capability through the electrical switch mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of operation

If conventional electronic levels are integrated with wall hangings, then level indication is provided, but the device remains noticeable when level

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelevel indicationVSAvoidaesthetic impact

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies inverted signaling logic where the signal element remains dark when the wall hanging is properly level and only illuminates when off-level. This inversion eliminates the aesthetic harm of a constantly visible device, making the integrated level unobtrusive during normal use while still providing clear indication when adjustment is needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

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

The device provides a small, unobtrusive, and easily perceptible indication of off-level conditions from a distance, remaining unnoticed when level and only signaling when adjustment is needed, enhancing usability and aesthetics.

Implementation Method 1

a level indicating switch operably engaged between the signal element and electrical ground. The level indicating switch is configured to connect the signal element with electrical ground only when the level indicating switch is oriented at least at a selected acute angle relative to a substantially horizontal axis

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectConduction (electrical): Conduction (electrical)

Implementation Method 2

the signal element may include, but is not limited to: a resistive lighting element; a light emitting diode; a speaker

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLight emitting diode: Light Emitting Diode

Data Source

PatentUS7370429B2Integrated electronic level device

Publication Date: 2008.05.13 HALL FLOYD E

AI summary

A device adapted to be integrated with a wall hanging for indicating an off-level condition is provided. The device includes a series electrical circuit including a power supply and a signal element connected with the power supply, wherein the signal element is capable of generating a perceptible output (such as a visible light or audible sound). The device also includes a level indicating switch connected between the signal element and electrical ground. The level indicating switch is capable of connecting the signal element with electrical ground only when the device is oriented at least at a selected acute angle relative to a substantially level condition such that the signal element generates the perceptible output only when the wall hanging is oriented in an off-level condition.