Automatic Laser Stand Height Adjustment via Feedback

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for adjusting the height of stands used with laser devices, such as tripods, require manual operation and often necessitate a second operator, especially in outdoor conditions with limited visibility, and lack efficient communication for automatic height adjustment.

Innovation Solution

A method that enables automatic height adjustment of a stand by transmitting control signals from a laser receiver to the height adjustment device via a communication link, allowing the stand to move until the laser beam hits a detector, with optional communication for deactivating shock functions and integrating the laser device for full automation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual height adjustment of the stand is used, then the stand can be adjusted to the desired height, but a second operator is required especially outdoors with limited visibility

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveheight adjustment operationVSAvoidnumber of operators required
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The stand performs height adjustment automatically using its own laser device and detector to sense position and control the drive mechanism, eliminating the need for external operators or assistance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The laser detector continuously monitors the laser beam position and feeds this information back to the control unit, which automatically adjusts the stand height until the beam hits the detector, enabling self-regulating operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Ease of operation

If a remote control is used to adjust the wall bracket, then the laser device can be positioned, but the operator must first read the difference between actual and target position manually

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition adjustmentVSAvoidtime for reading and controlling adjustment
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically reads the difference between actual and target position through the laser detector and control unit, which continuously monitor beam position and calculate required adjustments without manual intervention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The manual reading and control process is replaced by an automated optical-electronic system where the laser detector and control unit directly sense position differences and execute adjustments without human calculation or input

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Object-affected harmful factors

If the laser power is limited for safety, then protective measures are not needed, but the laser beams are not visible or difficult to see outdoors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelaser safetyVSAvoidlaser beam visibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSIllumination intensity

Solution Approach 1:

The laser detector senses the low-power laser beam and provides feedback to the control unit, which uses this information to automatically adjust the stand position, making the visibility issue irrelevant to the adjustment function

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 single-operator, fully automatic height adjustment of laser device stands, improving visibility and efficiency by eliminating the need for manual control and allowing the laser device to be used for its primary functions post-adjustment.

Implementation Method 1

laser devices that generate point and/or linear laser beams

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser: Laser

Implementation Method 2

a laser beam is directed onto a detector device of the laser receiver

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight detection: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentEP2400263B1Method for adjusting the height of a stand
Publication Date: 2016.01.06 HILTI AG
  • EP2400263B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2400263B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2400263B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The device (1) has a receiving unit (12) receiving a laser apparatus (5), which is adjusted in a vertical direction (15) by an automatic height setting unit (16). A laser receiver (3) is connected with the height setting unit over a communication link, which is designed in a form of radio or infrared connection. The laser receiver is connected with the laser apparatus over the communication link. A switch device is switched between an active state and a deactivated state, where the laser receiver is reversible between two modes of operation. An independent claim is also included for a method for adjusting height of a stand in a vertical direction.