Laser Level Curved Track Angular Measurement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional leveling devices lack the capability to accurately measure angular differential between two points in a three-dimensional space, limiting their functionality in applications requiring precise angular measurements.

Innovation Solution

A laser-level device with a manipulatable laser apparatus and a curved track mechanism that allows the laser module to move in an arc, enabling accurate determination of angular separation between two points by translating a slider along a longitudinal track and using indicia on curved windows to read angular positions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional leveling devices are used, then the device structure remains simple, but the capability to measure angular differential between two points in three-dimensional space is lacking

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveangular measurement capabilityVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines a laser module with angular measurement capability into a conventional level device. The laser module is integrated with the level body, allowing the device to project laser beams that can be used to measure angular differentials between points in three-dimensional space, thereby merging traditional leveling functionality with modern angular measurement capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The level device is designed to perform multiple functions: traditional bubble leveling and angular differential measurement using the laser module. The device can establish itself at a first point, train the laser on a second point, and read out the angular differential, making it a universal tool for both conventional leveling and precise angular measurements in construction and measurement applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If a laser module with curved track mechanism is added, then angular measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveangular differential measurementVSAvoidcurved track mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a curved track mechanism that guides the laser module in an arcuate path. This curved geometry allows the laser beam to sweep through a defined angular range, enabling precise angular differential measurements. The curved track translates linear slider movement into rotational laser beam movement, providing accurate angular measurement capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

Solution Approach 2:

A slider mechanism serves as an intermediary between the user's manual input and the laser module's angular positioning. The slider moves along the curved track, mediating the conversion of linear displacement into angular displacement of the laser beam. This intermediary mechanism provides precise control and measurement of angular differentials through mechanical advantage and geometric relationships.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 of angular separation between points, overcoming the limitations of conventional devices by providing a compact and accurate method for determining angular differentials in three-dimensional spaces.

Implementation Method 1

a laser module carrying a laser, engaged in a track curved in an arc of about ninety degrees... the laser emits a laser beam through the central, lengthwise channel, the beam moving in an arc determined by the track curvature

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser: Laser

Data Source

PatentUS11549810B2Laser level device
Publication Date: 2023.01.10 HOLLOWAY ROBYN
  • US11549810B2 patent drawing
  • US11549810B2 patent drawing
  • US11549810B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A laser-level device has a body having a length, a height and a width, with a base, sides and a top, an upper slider engaging a longitudinal track along the top of the device, connected through a lengthwise channel to a lower slider element within the body, a laser module carrying a laser, engaged in a track curved in an arc of about ninety degrees, and a first link engaged pivotally to the lower slider element on a first end and pivotally to the laser module on a second end. The laser module follows the track curvature in response to translation of the slider along the longitudinal track from a fully retracted position to a fully extended position, and the laser emits a laser beam through the central, lengthwise channel, the beam moving in an arc determined by the track curvature.