Magnetic Board Pusher for Fast Joist Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional board pushing tools require manual setup, actuation, and release, can damage joists, consume space, and are inefficient in aligning boards for secure installation.
Innovation Solution
A board pusher tool with a magnetically secured base and a bumper mechanism that automatically aligns and holds boards in position relative to joists, using a biasing element to exert force and guide movement, allowing hands-free operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a manual lever actuation mechanism is used to push boards, then the tool can effectively apply force to align boards, but the tool requires manual setup and release after each use, adding steps and time to the installation process
Solution Approach 1:
The magnet automatically secures the base to the joist upon approach and releases when removed, eliminating manual setup and release operations. The tool self-activates when brought near the magnetic joist, pushing the board into position without requiring manual lever actuation or release steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual lever actuation mechanism is replaced with a magnetic field-based securing system. Instead of mechanically locking and unlocking the base to the joist, the magnetic attraction automatically holds the base in position during board alignment and releases when the tool is removed.
2Reliability
If the tool grips the underlying joist to secure itself, then the tool can be held in position, but the gripping can scratch or mar the paint on metal joists
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical gripping system that physically contacts and secures to the joist is replaced with a magnetic field-based securing mechanism. The magnetic force attracts the base to the magnetic joist without physical contact, eliminating scratching or marring of the joist surface while maintaining secure positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic field acts as an intermediary between the base and the joist, transferring the securing force without direct physical contact. This intermediate magnetic interaction achieves reliable positioning stability while preventing harmful mechanical contact with the joist surface.
3Device complexity
If the tool is designed with a fixed gripping mechanism, then the tool structure is simple, but the tool consumes a lot of space around the joist and board, limiting where a user can work
Solution Approach 1:
The bumper is designed to move dynamically between extended and retracted positions based on board contact. When the board is not being pushed, the bumper retracts to minimize the tool's footprint and workspace requirements. When force is needed, the bumper extends to apply pushing force, providing adaptability without increasing overall tool complexity.
4Device complexity
If a rigid connection is used between the base and bumper, then the tool structure is simple, but the bumper cannot adapt to varying forces needed for different board types and layouts
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the base and bumper is made dynamic through a movable joint that allows the bumper to extend and retract. This dynamic connection enables the bumper to adapt to varying forces required for different board types and layouts, while the overall structure remains relatively simple without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms.
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
Facilitates quick and efficient alignment and secure fastening of boards to joists, reducing manual effort and preventing joist damage, while allowing simultaneous installation of multiple boards.
Implementation Method 1
a magnet exerting a magnetic force on the magnetic material of the joist to secure the base in a fixed position relative to the joist
Implementation Method 2
the biasing element can be modified or compressed to store energy... The biasing element can exert a reactive force against the bumper and the board
Data Source
AI summary
A board pusher tool is provided to hold one or more boards in a readied position and orientation relative to one another and an underlying joist. The pusher can include a base, a magnet joined with the base to secure the base in a fixed position relative to an underlying joist constructed from a magnetic material, a bumper reciprocally joined with the base, a guide joined with the bumper to allow the bumper to extend a predetermined distance away from the base, and a biasing element pushing the bumper away from the base, where the bumper forcibly urges the board away from the base, optionally toward or against another board, while the magnet secures the base in the fixed position relative to the underlying joist. A related method of use is provided.