Modular Level System with Interchangeable Extrusions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional leveling devices rely on outdated bubble-based technology, which is difficult to read and lacks granularity, and digital levels are costly, making them impractical for replacing multiple analog levels.
Innovation Solution
A modular level system where the costly electronics are separated into a removable level module that can be used with multiple level extrusions of varying geometries and sizes, featuring sensors, displays, and illumination elements for improved visibility and accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If digital levels are used to replace multiple analog levels, then measurement precision and visibility are improved, but cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The digital level system is divided into two independent parts: a reusable level module containing electronics and a disposable or interchangeable extrusion body. This segmentation allows the expensive electronic components to be shared across multiple extrusions, reducing the overall cost while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The level module is designed as a universal component that can be used with multiple different extrusion bodies of varying lengths and geometries. This multi-functionality allows a single level module to replace multiple digital levels, significantly reducing the total cost of ownership while maintaining precision across all extrusions.
2Measurement precision
If multiple digital levels are purchased to replace various analog levels, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the level module from the extrusion body, the system reduces complexity. The level module remains a single standardized unit, and users simply attach different extrusions as needed, rather than managing multiple complete digital level devices with varying electronics and software.
Solution Approach 2:
A single universal level module works with all extrusions, simplifying the system architecture. This eliminates the need for multiple different digital level models, reducing inventory complexity, training requirements, and maintenance burden while maintaining high measurement precision across all applications.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional bubble levels are used, then cost is reduced, but visibility and measurement granularity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the low-cost extrusion body from the modular level module, allowing analog or simple digital level mechanisms to be used in the module while maintaining overall system affordability. This segmentation enables cost-effective solutions without sacrificing measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional bubble-based mechanical level indicators with digital sensors and electronic displays in the level module. This substitution provides significantly improved measurement granularity and visibility while keeping the overall system cost-effective through the reusable module design.
Data Source
AI summary
A level system comprises a separate level module, and a set of level extrusions, each of the level extrusions comprising a structural arrangement configured to independently receive and retain the level module. The level module comprise one or more sensors, one or more displays, and control elements configured to provide level indications on the one or more displays based on data collected by the one or more sensors.