Modular Laser Level with Magnetic Base and Offset Stand

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing tools lack a convenient and versatile method to integrate a laser emitter, such as a laser level, with modular storage units, especially in environments where traditional mounting options are not available or would damage the surface.

Innovation Solution

A modular storage system that includes a laser level with detachable coupling mechanisms, allowing it to be securely attached to a modular storage unit or a stand, which can be offset to project a laser beam onto a surface, combined with wheels and a handle for mobility, and features a storage compartment and adjustable stand for enhanced usability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a laser level is mounted directly on a surface, then it provides stable positioning and accurate alignment, but it may damage the surface or require drilling holes for mounting

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestable positioningVSAvoidsurface damage
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a magnetic base as an intermediary between the laser level and the surface. The magnetic base provides stable positioning through magnetic attraction without requiring direct attachment to the surface, thus avoiding damage while maintaining reliability of positioning

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts the mounting function from the laser level itself and places it in a separate magnetic base. This allows the laser level to be universally compatible with different surfaces while the magnetic base handles the attachment, preventing surface damage

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Strength

If traditional mounting methods are used, then secure attachment is achieved, but it requires drilling holes or damaging the surface

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure attachmentVSAvoidsurface damage
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic base serves as a mediator that provides secure attachment through magnetic force without requiring holes or damage to the surface. It transfers the attachment function from invasive methods to non-invasive magnetic attraction

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical mounting systems (screws, adhesives, clips) with a magnetic field-based system. This substitution eliminates the need for physical penetration or chemical bonding while maintaining secure attachment strength

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Stability of the object's composition

If the laser level is fixed in position, then stable alignment is maintained, but it lacks mobility and adaptability to different locations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestable alignmentVSAvoidmobility
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the system dynamic by allowing the magnetic base to be easily moved and repositioned on different surfaces. The laser level can be detached and reattached at various locations while maintaining stable alignment once positioned, combining mobility with stability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

4Adaptability or versatility

If the laser level is offset from the storage unit, then the laser can project on surfaces beneath the housing, but it increases device complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprojection capabilityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the system into three independent components: the laser level, the magnetic base, and the storage unit. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, enabling the laser to be offset for projection capability while keeping individual components simple in design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 quick and convenient use of a laser level in various settings without damaging surfaces, providing accurate alignment and mobility, while the adjustable stand and coupling mechanisms ensure precise projection and easy access to the laser target for alignment adjustments.

Implementation Method 1

a laser target located on the lower surface of the lid. The laser target is configured to emit a return light in response to a beam of laser light received from a laser level

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser reflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS12092457B2Laser emitter with a modular storage unit
Publication Date: 2024.09.17 MILWAUKEE ELECTRIC TOOL CORP
  • US12092457B2 patent drawing
  • US12092457B2 patent drawing
  • US12092457B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Various aspects of a laser level interfacing with a modular storage system are shown. The laser level couples to a storage unit and/or a stand that itself couples to the storage unit. The stand extends past the front of the storage unit and permits the laser level to emit line in the downward direction.