Laser Receiver Automatic Zero-Reference Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional laser receivers require manual adjustment to toggle between 'normal' and 'offset' on-grade modes, which can lead to user error and inefficiency in positioning the device correctly on a construction site.
Innovation Solution
A laser receiver system with a mounting clamp containing a permanent magnet that automatically adjusts the zero-reference point based on the detected presence or absence of the magnet, using a magnetic sensor to switch between 'normal' and 'offset' on-grade modes, allowing the device to automatically set the correct sensing height.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual adjustment is used to toggle between normal and offset on-grade modes, then the device can switch between modes, but user error and inefficiency in positioning occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects the mounting orientation through the magnet sensor and self-adjusts the zero-reference point without requiring manual user intervention. The laser receiver autonomously switches between normal and offset on-grade modes based on the detected magnet position, eliminating user error in mode selection and positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical adjustment system with an automated sensing system. A magnetic sensor detects the position of a magnet mounted on the clamping device, and an automated control system adjusts the zero-reference point electronically, substituting manual mechanical operations with automated electromechanical systems.
2Productivity
If automatic adjustment based on magnet detection is implemented, then positioning efficiency improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnet serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical attachment to the clamping device and simultaneously serves as a positional reference for the magnetic sensor. This multi-functionality allows automatic mode switching without adding separate complex sensing mechanisms, thereby improving productivity while minimizing the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnet acts as an intermediary element that bridges the mechanical mounting system and the electronic sensing system. By using the magnet as a mediator, the system achieves automatic detection and adjustment without requiring direct complex interaction between the mechanical clamp and electronic sensors, thus balancing productivity improvement with acceptable system 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
Enables automatic switching between 'normal' and 'offset' on-grade modes without user intervention, improving accuracy and efficiency in positioning the laser receiver on a construction site by automatically adjusting the zero-reference point based on the detected magnet proximity.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic sensor that detects a presence or absence of the magnet at a predetermined location
Data Source
AI summary
An improved laser light receiver is provided that senses a laser light beam and determines positional elevation of the laser receiver based on the position where the laser light beam impacts the light sensors of the laser receiver. The laser receiver automatically adjusts its zero-reference point when it senses a magnet that has been mounted on a clamping device that holds the housing of the laser light detector in at least two predetermined attitudes with respect to the clamping device. Thus the invention operates as a clamp-actuated “offset” on-grade mode for the laser receiver.