Multi-function Gauge Block Integrating Length, Angle, and Weight Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gauge block sets are bulky and costly due to the need for multiple tools for length, angular measurement, and weight calibration, making them difficult to transport and maintain.
Innovation Solution
A multi-function gauge block that integrates standard length measurement, angular measurement, and precision weight calibration functions into a single rectangular body member made from hardened steel or ceramic, allowing for precise flat faces, angular faces, and a through hole for tie-rod insertion, while maintaining compatibility with standard manufacturing techniques.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate gauge blocks and calibration weights are used for length measurement, angular measurement, and weight calibration, then measurement precision is maintained, but device complexity and set size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines three separate measurement functions (length measurement, angular measurement, and weight calibration) into a single gauge block. The gauge block includes precision measuring faces for length measurement, angled faces for angular measurement, and a known mass for weight calibration, eliminating the need for multiple separate tools while maintaining measurement precision across all functions
Solution Approach 2:
The gauge block is designed as a universal measurement tool that can perform multiple functions: it serves as a standard length reference through its precision faces, as an angular reference through its angled faces, and as a calibration weight through its known mass. This multi-functionality reduces the overall number of tools needed in a measurement set
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate tools are used for length, angular measurement, and weight calibration, then functional versatility is maintained, but portability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges three separate measurement tools into one compact gauge block, significantly reducing the total weight and volume of the measurement set. By integrating length measurement faces, angular measurement faces, and calibration weight functionality into a single piece, the tool becomes much more portable while retaining all three measurement functions
3Measurement precision
If separate gauge blocks and calibration weights are used, then measurement accuracy is maintained, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The gauge block is manufactured as a single piece with multiple precision features: flat measuring faces for length measurement, precisely angled faces for angular measurement, and a controlled mass for weight calibration. By producing one multi-functional component instead of three separate tools, manufacturing costs are reduced while maintaining measurement accuracy across all functions
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-function gauge block has a rectangular body member with four side faces and two end faces that define outside measuring faces which define a precise length therebetween and which can be wrung to other gauge blocks or to a platen. An angle face extends between two of the side faces and forms a precise angle between itself and one or both of these side faces. The angle face is bounded by a pair of inside measuring faces that define a precise length therebetween. The multi-function gauge block has a precise mass so that it can be used as a calibration weight.