Post Level With Replaceable Bubble Vials
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing leveling tools lack replaceable bubble vials, making them obsolete when damaged, and fail to provide secure and versatile attachment methods to ferrous posts and structural members.
Innovation Solution
A leveling tool with replaceable bubble vials secured by threaded cap screws, featuring a strategically located bulls-eye level, elastomeric connector cord for secure attachment to posts, and magnets for ferrous structures, allowing easy replacement and versatile orientation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If bubble vials are permanently secured in the level body, then the level structure is simple and robust, but the vials cannot be replaced when damaged making the entire level obsolete
Solution Approach 1:
The level body is segmented into separate functional components: the main level body, threaded cap screws, and bubble vials. This segmentation allows the bubble vials to be independently removed and replaced through the threaded openings in the level body, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and component replaceability.
Solution Approach 2:
The level structure transitions from a static, permanently assembled design to a dynamic, modular design where bubble vials can be easily inserted and removed through threaded openings. This dynamic structure enables repair and replacement without discarding the entire level tool.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional attachment methods are used, then the level can be attached to various surfaces, but it cannot securely attach to ferrous posts or structural members
Solution Approach 1:
The level tool integrates multiple attachment methods: traditional flat surfaces can use the bubble vial alignment method, while ferrous posts and structural members can use the magnet assembly for secure attachment. This multi-functionality allows the same tool to reliably attach to various material types including wood, metal, and ferrous structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system combines different material properties: the magnet assembly uses magnetic materials for ferrous attachment, while the overall level body maintains compatibility with traditional surfaces. This composite approach enables reliable attachment across diverse material types.
3Measurement precision
If the level lacks a bulls-eye level, then the structure is simpler, but it cannot provide precise centering and orientation for posts
Solution Approach 1:
The level combines multiple measurement functions into a single integrated tool: traditional bubble vials for general leveling and a bulls-eye level for precise centering and orientation. This merging of functions provides comprehensive measurement capabilities without requiring separate tools, resolving the contradiction between precision and structural simplicity.
4Productivity
If the level lacks an elastomeric connector cord, then the structure is simpler, but it cannot expeditiously interconnect the tool with the post being set
Solution Approach 1:
An elastomeric connector cord serves as an intermediary element that expeditiously interconnects the level tool with the post being set. This intermediary component enables quick attachment and detachment, significantly improving post setting efficiency without permanently modifying the level structure.
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 accurate and efficient positioning of posts and structural members with replaceable bubble vials, secure attachment to ferrous materials, and clear viewing of orientation, extending tool lifespan and usability.
Implementation Method 1
magnets for removably affixing the tool to posts made of ferrous material
Implementation Method 2
The bubble vials are typically aligned in different directions relative to the working surfaces and function to indicate the orientation of a structure. For example, one vial may be aligned in a direction perpendicular to the working surfaces
Implementation Method 3
anastomosing the tool with the post... a bulls-eye level that is mounted on an intermediate surface of the tool body proximate the center thereof
Data Source
AI summary
A post level for determining the orientation of a structure that includes a pair of bubble vials that are secured within the level body in a manner such that, if either one of the bubble vials become broken or otherwise damaged, it can be easily replaced and the level need not be discarded. The body of the post level of the invention includes an upper portion, a lower portion having a first side having a slot, an intermediate portion and a rear surface having an outwardly extending locating shoulder for engaging the structure to be oriented. The post level also includes a bulls-eye level that is mounted on the intermediate portion of the level body and an elastomeric connector cord that is receivable within the slot of the first side of the body which enables the level to be removably secured to the structure being oriented. Additionally, the level includes a plurality of magnets that are connected to the level body for engagement with the structure to be oriented.