Measuring Rail Coupling for Inclination Precision

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing systems with measuring rails and devices lack versatility and precision in inclination measurements, particularly due to the need for complex coupling mechanisms and additional sensors for accurate alignment and calibration.

Innovation Solution

A system with a measuring rail and device featuring a coupling device for detachable alignment, an inclination measuring device, and an electronic distance measuring device using a laser beam, where the measuring rail has multiple stop surfaces and a rail detection means to facilitate precise and convenient measurements without additional sensors, and includes a calibration routine for accurate operation under varying conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a coupling device with additional sensors and complex mechanisms is used to achieve precise alignment and calibration, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinclination measurement precisionVSAvoidcoupling mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The measuring device utilizes its existing laser distance measuring means and computing unit to detect coupling status and perform calibration, eliminating the need for additional sensors. The system serves itself by using already-available components for dual purposes: distance measurement and coupling detection

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The laser distance measuring means serves multiple functions: it measures distances during normal operation and detects coupling status between the measuring device and rail. The computing unit processes both distance measurements and coupling detection signals, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Device complexity

If the measuring rail and measuring device are made as one piece, then structural simplicity is improved, but adaptability and ease of operation deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural simplicityVSAvoidmeasurement versatility
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system is divided into separable components: a measuring rail and a measuring device that can be coupled together when needed. The coupling device enables non-permanent connection, allowing the components to be separated for different measurement tasks or storage, maintaining structural simplicity while enabling adaptability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling between the measuring rail and measuring device is dynamic rather than fixed. The coupling device allows for easy attachment and detachment, enabling the system to adapt between different operational configurations based on measurement requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Measurement precision

If the main extent of the measuring rail is made at least twice as large as the measuring device, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement accuracyVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The measuring rail is designed with an asymmetric size relationship where its main extent is at least twice as large as the measuring device. This asymmetric proportioning provides stable reference surfaces for inclination measurements without requiring additional complex structural elements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

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 high measurement accuracy and convenience in inclination measurements with simplified structural design, allowing for non-destructive coupling and automatic activation of measurement modes, while providing protection for the measuring device during use.

Implementation Method 1

the distance measuring means (20) is provided to determine a distance between the measuring device (14) and a measurement object by means of a laser beam (32)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTime of flight: Time of Flight

Implementation Method 2

an inclination measuring device (18) which is provided to determine an alignment of the measuring device (14) about at least one axis relative to a direction of gravity

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGravity: Gravitation

Data Source

PatentEP2671046B1System with a measuring rail and a measuring device
Publication Date: 2018.08.15 ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
  • EP2671046B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2671046B1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

The invention proceeds from a system with a measurement bar (12) and a measurement device (14), having at least one computation unit (16), an inclination measurement means (18) and an electronic distance measurement means (20). The invention proposes that the system have a coupling apparatus (22) which is provided for coupling the measurement bar (12) and the measurement device (14) such that they can be separated by an operator.