Level with Polymer Sleeve and Metal Frame to Prevent Material Adhesion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional levels are prone to damage and contamination from materials like concrete, dirt, and dust due to their design, which can lead to reduced usability and difficulty in cleaning, especially in construction environments.
Innovation Solution
The development of a level with a scratch-resistant window and a sealed, hollow metal body with end caps, along with an outer polymer sleeve that covers most surfaces to prevent contamination and improve durability, allowing for easy cleaning and tool-free window replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If the level uses a conventional solid body design, then it provides structural strength, but it allows material like concrete and dirt to adhere to its surface and enter internal cavities, causing contamination and reduced usability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a polymer coating or polymer body that creates a non-stick surface layer on the level. This polymer shell prevents concrete, dirt, and other materials from adhering to the level surface, while the underlying metal frame provides structural strength. The polymer layer can be easily cleaned or replaced, solving the contamination problem without sacrificing structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The level is divided into separate components: a metal frame providing structural support and a polymer coating or polymer body segments providing the non-stick protective layer. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specialized function - the metal provides strength while the polymer prevents adhesion and contamination.
2Reliability
If the level window is made from conventional material, then it allows viewing of the vial, but it scratches easily, reducing visibility and requiring frequent replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The window is constructed from composite materials that combine the optical clarity needed for viewing with high scratch resistance. This may involve treating the window material or using a composite structure that maintains transparency while providing durability against scratching from construction materials.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the level body is sealed with end caps, then it prevents material entry into the hollow cavity, but it increases the complexity of assembly and disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The level body is segmented into a hollow cavity structure with end caps that seal the openings. This segmentation allows the hollow cavity to be protected from material entry while maintaining a relatively simple assembly process. The end caps serve as discrete sealing components that can be attached to the hollow body structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A tool, such as a level, including one or more polymer/plastic body segment, protective cover and/or seal is provided. The covers discussed herein may limit or prevent dirt or construction materials, such as concrete, from entering into the level body. The cover may also be a non-stick material, such as a polymer outer sleeve, that limits the ability of dirt and construction material to adhere to the level. The level may also include scratch resistant vial windows.