Multi-Orientation Bubble Level with Dual-Angle Visibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional levels require separate vials for determining level and plumb orientations, making them more difficult to use and increasing manufacturing costs, as they cannot utilize the same vial for both measurements.
Innovation Solution
An instrument with an elongated body containing a plurality of orientation measurement devices, each capable of indicating either level or plumb orientation, featuring chambers with convex sides, fluid, and an air bubble visible from multiple angles, allowing for unified level and plumb determination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate vials are used for level and plumb measurements, then measurement accuracy is maintained, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single vial that can serve both level and plumb measurement functions. The vial is positioned and oriented such that the same bubble indicator can be used to determine both horizontal levelness and vertical plumbness by rotating the tool, eliminating the need for separate dedicated vials for each measurement type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the level and plumb measurement functions into a single integrated vial system. Instead of having separate vials for level and plumb measurements, the invention combines these functions into one multi-functional vial that can indicate both orientations through proper positioning and reading of the bubble relative to graduated markings.
2Reliability
If multiple dedicated vials are included, then measurement reliability is improved, but manufacturing expense increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces manufacturing expense by producing fewer vial components. The single multi-functional vial design requires less material, less assembly time, and simpler manufacturing processes compared to producing multiple dedicated vials, while maintaining measurement reliability through proper design of the bubble indicator and graduated scale.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate vials are used for level and plumb, then measurement versatility is ensured, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent improves ease of operation by providing a unified vial system that can measure both level and plumb orientations. Users only need to learn to read one vial system rather than switching between or interpreting multiple separate vials, simplifying the operational process while maintaining the ability to perform both measurement types.
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 easier and more cost-effective measurement of both level and plumb orientations with fewer vials, reducing manufacturing expenses and user complexity.
Implementation Method 1
an air bubble floating in the fluid
Implementation Method 2
an air bubble floating in the fluid
Data Source
AI summary
An instrument for determining level or plumb orientations includes an elongated body having a plurality of orientation measurement devices. Each of the orientation measurement devices can indicate either a level or plumb orientation depending on a position of the instrument. The orientation measurement devices each include a chamber having front and rear convex sides, a fluid contained in the chamber, and an air bubble floating in the fluid. The elongated body includes a set of first openings and a set of second openings. The orientation measurement devices are embedded into the elongated body through the first set of openings and the orientation measurement devices each include bubble therein viewable from the front and back of the elongated body. The bubble is also viewable from the top and bottom of the elongated body through the second set of openings.