Rotating Range Sensor for Stage Truss Height Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current stage setups rely on cumbersome and obstructive tape measures for positioning equipment above the stage, which are difficult to reattach and unsightly, especially when the truss is not level or in reach, hindering efficient setup and obstructing the view during performances.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with a support member, range sensor, leveling mechanism, and output device that allows for precise measurement of the equipment's position above the stage without tape measures, enabling self-leveling and accurate height determination, facilitating fast and unobstructed setup while maintaining aesthetic integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If tape measures are used for positioning equipment above the stage, then height measurement can be achieved, but the setup becomes cumbersome and obstructive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical tape measure system with an optical/electronic distance measuring device mounted on the truss. This device uses light or electromagnetic waves to measure vertical distance, eliminating the need for physical tape measures that obstruct views and are difficult to handle. The electronic measurement system provides accurate height data without the operational drawbacks of manual tape measures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a distance measuring device as an intermediary between the truss and the measurement function. This intermediary component is mounted on the truss itself, allowing it to measure vertical distance to the stage or performance surface without requiring external tape measures. The intermediary device resolves the contradiction by providing measurement capability while avoiding the obstructions and operational difficulties of traditional tape measures.
2Measurement precision
If tape measures are used for positioning equipment, then height can be measured, but the view during performances is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical tape measures with an electronic distance measuring system mounted on the truss. This substitution eliminates the visible tape measure that would hang down and obstruct audience views during performances. The electronic system performs measurements without any physical obstruction in the performance space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the measurement function from the external tape measure and integrates it into the truss structure itself. By mounting the distance measuring device on the truss, the measurement capability is embedded in the existing structure, removing the need for separate tape measures that would create visual obstructions during performances.
3Ease of manufacture
If manual positioning with tape measures is used, then equipment placement can be achieved, but setup time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual measurement and positioning operations with an automated electronic distance measuring system. The device automatically measures vertical distance from the truss to the stage, eliminating the time-consuming process of manually deploying and reading tape measures. This automation significantly reduces setup time while maintaining ease of equipment placement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a self-service measurement system where the distance measuring device automatically performs height measurements without requiring manual intervention. The device is mounted on the truss and autonomously provides measurement data, eliminating the need for operators to manually handle tape measures and perform calculations, thereby reducing setup time.
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 efficient, accurate, and aesthetically pleasing setup of stage equipment by providing precise height measurements without the need for tape measures, ensuring equipment is correctly positioned without obstructing the view and reducing setup time.
Implementation Method 1
the range sensor to measure a vertical distance from the support member to a surface below the stage
Implementation Method 2
range sensor, leveling mechanism, and output device
Implementation Method 3
leveling mechanism to rotate the range sensor to a position where the range sensor measures a substantially vertical distance
Data Source
AI summary
An example of an apparatus includes a support member to support equipment above a stage. The apparatus also includes a range sensor rotatably mounted to the support member. The range sensor is to measure a distance to the stage. In addition, the apparatus includes a leveling mechanism to rotate the range sensor to measure the distance along a vertical direction. The apparatus further includes an output device to transmit the distance to a user.