Leveling and Measuring Device with Sliding Cover

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for hanging items on walls require multiple tools, such as tape measures and levels, which can be cumbersome and inconvenient, especially when working alone or in restricted spaces. Additionally, creating perfectly level and precisely spaced markings on uneven walls can be challenging, leading to unsightly gaps or uneven placements.

Innovation Solution

A leveling and measuring device comprising a ruler with integrated measurement markings and a sliding cover with a level and marking structure. The cover can be locked into position along the ruler's track, allowing for precise and level markings to be made on a wall surface.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If multiple tools (tape measure, level, pencil) are used simultaneously, then measurement and leveling accuracy is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemarking accuracyVSAvoidnumber of tools

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines a ruler with measurement markings, a level, and a marking structure into a single integrated device. The ruler provides measurement capabilities, the level ensures proper alignment, and the marking structure with countersunk opening enables precise marking, all within one tool that can be operated with a single hand.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Measurement precision

If multiple tools are used simultaneously, then measurement and leveling accuracy is improved, but ease of operation worsens due to requiring multiple hands

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemarking accuracyVSAvoidsingle-hand operation

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines a ruler with measurement markings, a level, and a marking structure into a single integrated device. The ruler provides measurement capabilities, the level ensures proper alignment, and the marking structure with countersunk opening enables precise marking, all within one tool that can be operated with a single hand.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Manufacturing precision

If traditional tools are used on uneven walls, then basic markings can be made, but manufacturing precision and reliability deteriorate due to surface imperfections

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelevel marking accuracyVSAvoiduneven wall surface

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs visual indicators including a bubble level that changes position to indicate levelness, and high-visibility measurement markings on the ruler. These visual cues allow users to accurately determine proper positioning and leveling even when the underlying wall surface is uneven or difficult to read.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #32Color changes

4Loss of time

If traditional tools are used, then basic measurements can be taken, but productivity worsens due to constant repositioning and double-checking

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetime for repositioningVSAvoidmarking efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of timeVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines a ruler with measurement markings, a level, and a marking structure into a single integrated device. The ruler provides measurement capabilities, the level ensures proper alignment, and the marking structure with countersunk opening enables precise marking, all within one tool that can be operated with a single hand.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The device allows users to pre-position the ruler at the desired location and use the bubble level to verify proper alignment before making the final mark. The countersunk opening is pre-positioned at the exact marking location, eliminating the need for separate measurement and marking steps.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

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

The device enables users to create level and precisely spaced markings on walls efficiently, reducing the need for multiple tools and addressing the challenges of uneven surfaces, thereby improving the accuracy and aesthetic quality of wall hangings.

Implementation Method 1

The cover, made from similar materials as the ruler, features a level (bubble or digital) for proper alignment

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectBubble level: Spirit Level

Data Source

PatentUS20250198754A1Leveling and Measuring Device

Publication Date: 2025.06.19 OWEN TODD

AI summary

A leveling and measuring device is provided comprised of a ruler, which may be constructed from various materials, such as transparent, semi-transparent, or opaque polymers, metals, or composites. The ruler includes measurement markings that can be printed, engraved, embossed, or laser-etched in metric or imperial units. A track is integrated or attached along the length of the ruler, allowing a cover to slide horizontally. The cover, made from similar materials as the ruler, features a level (bubble or digital) for proper alignment and a marking structure with a countersunk opening for guiding fasteners or drawing tools. The marking structure also includes indicia for precise alignment with the measurement markings. A locking mechanism, such as a friction lock, secures the cover in position along the track. The device may be used by positioning and securing the cover, aligning the marking structure with the desired measurement, and making precise markings on surfaces.