Remote Leveling System Using Wireless 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 when multiple users are involved, especially in situations where the view is obstructed or the object being leveled is heavy, as they require manual observation and communication to achieve accurate leveling.

Innovation Solution

A remote leveling and positioning system that includes a housing with electronic components, such as lasers and indicator lights, and wireless connectivity, allowing for peer-to-peer communication and audio feedback to guide users in achieving a level position without direct visual reference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a bubble level device is used for leveling, then leveling function is provided, but direct visual observation is required which becomes impossible at a distance or with obstructed view

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveleveling operationVSAvoidbubble position observation
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary device (camera or sensor system) that captures the bubble position and transmits it to a remote display. This intermediary allows the user to observe the bubble level reading from a distance or through obstructions without requiring direct line of sight to the actual bubble level vial.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a visual copy of the bubble level reading through electronic means. Instead of requiring direct observation of the physical bubble, the system generates an electronic representation (displayed on a screen or transmitted to a remote device) that replicates the bubble position information, allowing remote observation and measurement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple users level an object using a bubble level, then leveling can be performed collaboratively, but manual communication is required which reduces efficiency

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-user collaborationVSAvoidleveling efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements an automated feedback system where the level reading is electronically transmitted and displayed for all users to see simultaneously. This eliminates the need for one user to manually read the level and communicate instructions to others, providing real-time feedback to all participants and significantly improving collaborative efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Reliability

If a bubble level is used in obstructed view situations, then leveling function is maintained, but usability is substantially limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveleveling functionVSAvoiddevice usability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses an intermediary optical or electronic system that captures the bubble position through obstructions and transmits it to a location where it can be clearly observed. This allows the leveling function to remain reliable while overcoming the usability limitation of obstructed views.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS8959784B2Remote leveling and positioning system and method
Publication Date: 2015.02.24 SCHUBERT RICHARD S
  • US8959784B2 patent drawing
  • US8959784B2 patent drawing
  • US8959784B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems and methods are provided herein that provide for remote leveling and positioning. An embodiment includes a leveling device assembly. Another embodiment provides a system including a leveling device assembly and a plurality of audio devices. Further embodiments provide for systems having a plurality of leveling device assemblies.