Remote Leveling Device with Electronic Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional leveling devices, such as bubble levels, are limited by the need for direct user visibility and become cumbersome in multi-user settings or when objects are heavy, as they require manual interpretation and communication of leveling status.
Innovation Solution
Development of a remote leveling and positioning system that includes a wireless network-connected leveling device assembly with electronic components, such as lasers and indicator lights, allowing for remote operation and communication of leveling status through audio and visual cues, enabling multiple users to work efficiently even in obstructed or distant positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a bubble level device is used for leveling, then the device can indicate level status, but the user must be able to see the bubble position directly which limits usability at a distance or with obstructed views
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary optical system (camera, mirror, or magnifying lens) between the bubble level and the user's eye. The camera captures the bubble position and transmits it to a remote display, the mirror redirects the line of sight to the bubble, or the magnifying lens enlarges the bubble view for distant observation. This intermediary mechanism resolves the contradiction by enabling accurate leveling indication while allowing users to operate from a distance or with obstructed views.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the direct optical-mechanical viewing system with an electronic imaging and display system. Instead of requiring direct line-of-sight to the bubble, a camera captures the bubble position electronically and displays it on a remote screen or transmits it wirelessly. This substitution of mechanical/optical direct viewing with electronic imaging resolves the contradiction by decoupling the measurement function from the viewing function, enabling operation at any distance.
2Measurement precision
If a bubble level device is used in multi-user settings, then leveling can be performed, but at least one user must read the level and relay instructions which is cumbersome and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback system where the bubble level position is automatically captured by a camera and transmitted to multiple users' devices in real-time. Each user receives direct visual feedback of the current leveling status on their own device without needing to observe a central display or wait for verbal instructions. This automated feedback loop resolves the contradiction by enabling all users to independently monitor leveling status simultaneously, eliminating the need for one user to act as an intermediary and significantly improving productivity in multi-user settings.
3Measurement precision
If a bubble level device is used with heavy objects, then leveling can be achieved, but users must manually interpret and communicate leveling status which increases complexity and reduces efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the leveling system to serve itself by automatically capturing, processing, and transmitting the bubble level position data without requiring manual interpretation. The camera automatically detects bubble position, the system processes the image data, and the information is transmitted to users' devices or integrated with positioning systems. This self-service automation resolves the contradiction by eliminating the manual interpretation and communication steps, reducing operational complexity while maintaining accurate leveling status indication.
Data Source
AI summary
A leveling device coupler assembly that includes a coupling head and a joint assembly coupled to the coupling head. The joint assembly can include a first and second rotatable coupling. The leveling device coupler assembly can also include a base coupler coupled to the joint assembly, with the base coupler and coupling head being coupled on opposing ends of the joint assembly. The leveling device coupler assembly can also include an electronic coupler assembly leveling device configured to at least detect a configuration status of the leveling device coupler assembly.