Hands-Free Level Attachment Using Spring Steel Strap
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing level attachment methods are inadequate for securing conventional levels to non-magnetic structural members, such as PVC, CPVC, aluminum, and wood, often requiring manual handling and not being suitable for single-person operations due to the lack of effective attachment mechanisms for these materials.
Innovation Solution
A hands-free level indicating device featuring a U-shaped portion attached to the level and a hook-shaped portion with a spring bias, allowing secure attachment to various-sized structural members without the need for magnets, using a strap with a U-shaped and hook-shaped configuration that can be formed from spring steel, enabling easy installation and removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If magnetic attachment is used to secure the level to structural members, then the level can be hands-free and securely attached, but this method is not effective for non-magnetic materials such as PVC, CPVC, aluminum, magnesium, and wood
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a strap as an intermediary component that physically connects the level to the structural member. The strap has a U-shaped portion that attaches to the level and a hook-shaped portion that clamps around the structural member, serving as a mediator that works with all material types regardless of magnetic properties
Solution Approach 2:
The strap attachment apparatus is designed to be universally applicable to all structural member materials including magnetic and non-magnetic types. The hook-shaped portion can clamp around pipes of various materials (PVC, CPVC, aluminum, magnesium, wood, etc.) and sizes, making the attachment system multi-functional and material-agnostic
2Device complexity
If manual holding of the level is required to maintain it flush against the structural member, then no special attachment device is needed, but a single person operation becomes infeasible and two person teams are required
Solution Approach 1:
The strap attachment system is self-servicing in that it automatically secures the level to the structural member without requiring continuous manual intervention. Once the strap is attached and the hook clamps around the structural member, the level maintains its position hands-free, eliminating the need for continuous human support
Solution Approach 2:
The strap acts as an intermediary that transfers the load and positioning function from human hands to the mechanical attachment system, enabling single-person operation by automating the level-holding function
3Ease of operation
If detachable securing clips with slots at each end are used to secure the level, then the level can be attached and detached, but the level must be specially made with slots which increases manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of modifying the level with slots and using clips that insert into them, the patent inverts the approach by having the strap attach to the level's existing structure (U-shaped portion) and extend outward to clamp around the structural member (hook-shaped portion). This eliminates the need to modify the level body while maintaining detachability
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system is segmented into two functional parts: the U-shaped portion that attaches to the level and the hook-shaped portion that clamps the structural member. This segmentation allows the level to remain unchanged while the strap provides the attachment functionality
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 secure, hands-free operation of levels on non-magnetic structural members, accommodating different sizes and materials, and is economical to manufacture, providing a long operating life and improved usability in construction settings.
Implementation Method 1
A spring is provided to bias the hook-shaped portion in a direction toward the level to allow the apparatus to secure the level to different sizes of structural members
Data Source
AI summary
A hands-free level indicating device includes a level for determining a spatial orientation of a structural member, and an apparatus for securing the level to the structural member. The apparatus includes a U-shaped portion for attaching to the level and a hook-shaped portion for clamping around the structural member. The U-shaped portion and hook-shaped portion can be formed from a single strip of flat material, such as spring steel. A spring is provided to bias the hook-shaped portion in a direction toward the level to allow the apparatus to secure the level to different sizes of structural members. The spring can be a leaf spring that attaches to a base of the U-shaped portion and extends in a longitudinal direction of the level.