Level Tool with Slot for Straight Edge and Multi-Angle Vials
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional leveling tools rely on air bubble alignment within fluid vials to determine surface orientation, which can be cumbersome and limited in measuring various angles and surface orientations.
Innovation Solution
A level tool design featuring multiple tubular vials with fluid and air bubbles positioned at different angles, along with a slot for receiving a straight edge, allowing for precise determination of surface orientation and ability to measure various angles, including 0, 90, and 45 degrees, with optional additional angles like 30 degrees.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional leveling tools use air bubble alignment within fluid vials to determine surface orientation, then the tool can determine if a surface is level, but the process is cumbersome and limited in measuring various angles and surface orientations
Solution Approach 1:
The level tool is divided into multiple independent tubular vials, each containing fluid and an air bubble, positioned at different angles (0°, 90°, 45°, and optionally 30°). Each vial independently indicates the orientation in its specific direction, allowing the user to determine surface orientation in multiple directions simultaneously without moving the tool or repositioning components.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single-dimension bubble alignment (one vial showing level status in one direction) to a multi-dimensional orientation system by incorporating multiple vials at different angular orientations. This allows the tool to measure and indicate level status in multiple directions (0°, 90°, 45°, 30°) simultaneously, adding angular dimensionality to the measurement capability.
2Measurement precision
If the level tool includes multiple tubular vials with fluid and air bubbles at different angles, then the precision and versatility in determining surface orientation is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each tubular vial serves multiple functions: it indicates level status in its specific angular direction, provides a visual reference for that orientation, and works independently with the others. The single level tool body with multiple apertures and vials performs the function of multiple separate leveling devices, eliminating the need for separate tools for different angular measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The multiple tubular vials are nested within the single level tool body, with each vial positioned in its own aperture. The compact integration of multiple functional components (vials, apertures, fluid, air bubbles) within one unified tool structure reduces overall complexity compared to using separate leveling devices for each angular measurement.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the level tool includes a slot for receiving a straight edge, then the ability to draw level lines beyond the tool's length is enabled, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The slot acts as an intermediary interface between the level tool and the straight edge. By providing a dedicated receptacle with specific geometric constraints, the slot ensures proper alignment and positioning of the straight edge relative to the level tool, enabling accurate extension of leveling capability without requiring the user to manually align components.
Solution Approach 2:
The slot is positioned at a specific location on the level tool body where it provides the most useful functional benefit. Its geometry is locally optimized to accommodate the straight edge in the correct orientation and position, with precise dimensional characteristics only where needed for proper engagement, rather than requiring high precision throughout the entire tool.
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
Enhances precision and versatility in determining surface orientation, enabling accurate leveling and angle measurement across multiple orientations, and allows for extended use with a straight edge to draw level lines beyond the tool's length.
Implementation Method 1
Each tubular vial contains fluid and air. The level also includes a slot extending along the first plate from a first end of the tool to a second end of the tool. The slot is configured to receive a straight edge.
Data Source
AI summary
A level including a first plate defining a top surface of the tool, and a second plate defining a bottom surface of the tool. The bottom plate extends generally parallel to the first plate. The level also includes a center plate having two opposing side surfaces extending generally perpendicular to the first plate and the second plate. The center plate connects the first plate and the second plate. The level further includes a plurality of apertures extending through the center plate, and a plurality of tubular vials disposed within the plurality of apertures. Each tubular vial contains fluid and air. The level also includes a slot extending along the first plate from a first end of the tool to a second end of the tool. The slot is configured to receive a straight edge.