Pipe Laser Automatic Self-Leveling and Bidirectional Remote Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional pipe lasers face challenges with accurate leveling, particularly in cross-axis direction, and have limitations in remote control functionality, including unidirectional communication and reliability issues.

Innovation Solution

A pipe laser with automatic self-leveling mechanisms in both on-axis and cross-axis directions, utilizing gimbals and sensors for precise leveling, and a bidirectional remote control system using RF transceivers for reliable communication.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual cross-axis leveling using bubble vials is used, then the device can be leveled in cross-axis direction, but the precision is insufficient for long distances

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecross-axis leveling precisionVSAvoidmanual adjustment complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements automatic self-leveling mechanisms that eliminate manual bubble vial adjustments. The system uses sensors to detect cross-axis misalignment and automatically adjusts the laser assembly through motorized mechanisms, achieving precise leveling without requiring operator intervention or interpretation of bubble vial readings.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical leveling (bubble vials and hand adjustments) with an automated system combining sensors, microprocessors, and motorized adjustment mechanisms. This substitution enables precise cross-axis leveling through electronic control rather than manual mechanical operations.

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

2Measurement precision

If line control functions are used to compensate for cross-axis mis-leveling, then horizontal adjustment can be achieved, but the calculation becomes complicated and error-prone

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehorizontal line accuracyVSAvoidcompensation calculation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs cross-axis leveling before grade and line control adjustments. By establishing a level baseline first through automatic self-leveling mechanisms, the system eliminates the need for complex compensation calculations during subsequent grade and line adjustments, simplifying the overall control process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent separates cross-axis leveling from grade and line control functions. The system first automatically levels the cross-axis orientation, then independently handles grade and line adjustments without requiring complex interactions or compensation calculations between these functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Loss of information

If conventional remote controls with unidirectional communication are used, then basic control commands can be sent, but the operator cannot verify command reception or access status information

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestatus information feedbackVSAvoidcommunication system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements bidirectional communication that provides real-time feedback between the remote control and laser device. The system transmits not only control commands but also status information such as battery level, operational state, and error conditions, enabling the operator to verify command reception and monitor device status.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent integrates multiple communication functions into the remote control system. The transceiver handles both command transmission and status reception, combining control and monitoring functions in a single unified communication interface rather than requiring separate systems.

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

4Reliability

If infrared light communication is used for remote control, then wireless operation is achieved, but reliability fails when direct line of sight is unavailable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveremote control reliabilityVSAvoidoperating condition flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from infrared light communication to radio frequency communication. This parameter change in the communication medium allows signals to penetrate obstacles and operate without direct line of sight, maintaining reliability while expanding adaptability to various operating conditions including deep ditches and obstructed environments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

Ensures accurate and precise leveling and reliable remote operation, improving the accuracy of grade and line adjustments and enabling efficient communication without line-of-sight constraints.

Implementation Method 1

a laser source that generates a reference laser beam

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser: Laser

Implementation Method 2

The cross axis level sensor may include a circuit board with an infra-red (IR) light emitter, a bubble vial positioned above the IR emitter, and a photosensitive circuit board positioned above the bubble vial

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBubble vial level detection: Spirit Level

Implementation Method 3

The IR emitter shines IR light onto and through the bubble vial

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInfrared radiation: Infrared Radiation

Implementation Method 4

a photosensitive circuit board positioned above the bubble vial

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric detection: Photoelectric Effect

Implementation Method 5

In some embodiments, the transceiver may include radio frequency (RF) transceivers that both send and receive instructions/data via radio waves

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRadio frequency transmission: Electromagnetic Propulsion

Data Source

PatentUS7861424B2Pipe laser
Publication Date: 2011.01.04 ROBERT BOSCH TOOL
  • US7861424B2 patent drawing
  • US7861424B2 patent drawing
  • US7861424B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention provides a pipe laser that automatically self levels an inner frame system in both cross-axis and on-axis directions to provide a completely level reference for grade and line control adjustments mechanisms of a reference line generating laser source. The invention also provides a pipe laser that is operable via a bidirectional remote control.