Replaceable Bubble Vials and Thumb Screw Connector Level
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bubble levels require discarding if bubble vials become damaged, and they lack efficient mechanisms for securely attaching to structures like conduits and ferrous surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A bubble level design with replaceable bubble vials secured by threaded cap screws and a novel connector mechanism featuring a self-contained ball-and-spring device or thumb screw for secure attachment to structures, along with magnets for ferrous surfaces, allowing easy replacement and versatile attachment options.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If bubble vials are permanently secured in the level body, then the level structure is simple and robust, but the level must be discarded if any bubble vial becomes damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The level body is divided into separate functional components: the main level body and individually replaceable bubble vials. Each vial is secured in its own dedicated chamber with a threaded cap screw, allowing independent replacement of damaged vials without affecting other components or the entire level unit.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of discarding the entire level when a bubble vial is damaged, the invention allows for recovery and reuse of the level body and intact vials. Only the specific damaged vial is discarded and replaced, significantly extending the service life and value of the level tool.
2Strength
If a secure attachment mechanism is added to the level, then the level can be firmly attached to structures, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector mechanism features a movable structure engaging member that can be positioned between a retracted position (for level movement) and an advanced position (for secure attachment). The thumb screw provides adjustable clamping force, allowing the attachment strength to be dynamically controlled based on the specific application needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The thumb screw connector is designed to be operated by hand without requiring additional tools. The user can directly engage and disengage the attachment mechanism through simple thumb screw rotation, making the complex attachment function easily operable and self-sufficient.
3Ease of repair
If replaceable bubble vials with threaded cap screws are used, then damaged vials can be replaced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The threaded cap screw and chamber design creates a universal mounting interface that can accommodate different bubble vial types and sizes. This standardized approach allows for easy replacement not only of damaged vials but also of upgraded or specialized vials, enhancing the overall versatility and repairability of the level.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple attachment options (magnets, thumb screw connector) are provided, then the level can attach to various structures, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The level integrates multiple attachment systems into a single tool: magnet means for ferrous surfaces, thumb screw connectors for non-ferrous structures, and slot engagement for T-shaped profiles. These different attachment mechanisms are merged into one versatile level body, allowing the user to select the appropriate attachment method for each specific application scenario.
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 the level to be used without discarding if bubble vials are damaged and provides secure, versatile attachment to various structures, enhancing usability and durability.
Implementation Method 1
In another form of the invention there are provided a plurality of magnets that are connected to the bottom surface of the level so as to permit the level to be conveniently, removably connected to any ferrous structure that is being leveled.
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, another may be aligned in a direction parallel to the working surfaces and a third may be aligned in an angular direction.
Data Source
AI summary
A bubble type level for determining the orientation of a structure that includes first and second differently oriented bubble vials that are secured within the level body in a manner such that if either of the bubble vials become broken or otherwise damaged, it can be easily replaced and the level need not be discarded. The bubble type level of the invention also includes a novel thumb screw type connector mechanism that enables the level to be removably interconnected with the structures to be leveled, such as conduit. The level further includes a plurality of longitudinally spaced magnets that are connected to various surfaces of the level and a bulls-eye level that is mounted on the top surface of the level body.