Laser Centering Tool with Adjustable Edge Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current household and contractor tools that utilize lasers do not allow users to easily find the center of a surface, making tasks such as hanging picture frames or assembling door knobs on kitchen cabinets challenging.
Innovation Solution
A laser centering tool that projects multiple lines on a surface, with a center laser line and two edge lasers that move in unison, allowing users to find the exact center by adjusting the rotational elements and using sensors to determine distances and alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional laser tools (tape measures, leveling devices) are used, then basic measurement and leveling functions are achieved, but the ability to find the center of a surface is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple laser sources (center laser and edge lasers) into a single device housing, merging the functions of center marking and edge reference into one tool. This allows the device to provide both center identification and boundary reference simultaneously, enhancing versatility without requiring separate tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The laser centering tool is designed to perform multiple functions: projecting center lines, projecting edge lines for reference, and providing rotational adjustment capabilities. This multi-functional design allows a single device to replace multiple traditional tools while maintaining ease of use through integrated operation.
2Measurement precision
If multiple laser lines are projected to indicate center and edges, then centering precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the laser projection system into distinct functional components: a center laser source for marking the center point and separate edge laser sources for indicating boundaries. This segmentation allows each laser to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining independent adjustability, improving precision without overwhelming complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces rotational elements and adjustment mechanisms as intermediaries between the laser sources and the user. These intermediaries allow precise control over the position and orientation of each laser line, enabling accurate centering while providing a user-friendly interface that simplifies the complex laser configuration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If edge lasers are made movable to adjust positioning, then adaptability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The edge lasers are designed with rotational elements that allow dynamic adjustment of their positions. This dynamic capability enables the edge lasers to be repositioned as needed while maintaining a stable base structure. The rotational mechanism provides smooth, controlled movement that is easy to operate while achieving the desired positioning flexibility.
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 users to accurately find the center of any surface, facilitating tasks like hanging frames or assembling hardware by providing a precise center point indication and distance measurements.
Implementation Method 1
a laser source mated to a housing configured to project a laser line
Implementation Method 2
a sensor for receiving a reflected light signal from the laser line, wherein the reflected light signal determines a distance from the device to the surface
Data Source
AI summary
A laser centering tool for surface areas used to find the center point of a surface. The laser centering tool uses single or multiple laser sources to project a plurality of lines on a horizontal or vertical surface. It may comprise of multiple lasers, rotational plates, prism, beam splitter, gear housing, and/or a gear mechanism. At least one center laser line remains stationary between at least two edge laser lines. The edge lasers may be moved to outline the edge of a surface. At least one center laser projects a beam that indicates the center point of the edge lasers. The edge laser lines may be moved by rotational plates, a set of mirrors, or prism.