Self-Extending Measuring Device with Resilient Convex Members
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional measuring devices face issues such as frequent breakage, difficult storage, and inefficient use due to their rigid or flexible configurations, which lead to complications like fracture, portability challenges, and time-consuming extension and folding processes.
Innovation Solution
A self-extending measuring device comprising two elongated members with convex surfaces made of flexible and resilient materials, housed in a flexible sleeve, that automatically extends and collapses using magnets or other securing means for quick deployment and storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid configuration (yardstick) is used, then measurement stability is improved, but portability and storage difficulty worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The yardstick is divided into multiple rigid segments that can be connected and disconnected. Each segment maintains the rigidity needed for stable measurements, while the ability to separate segments enables easy portability and storage. The segments can be carried separately and quickly assembled when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The yardstick transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic system where segments can be moved, added, or removed based on measurement needs. This dynamic configuration allows the device to adapt between being compact for transport and extended for use, resolving the contradiction between stability and portability.
2Ease of operation
If a foldable configuration is used, then portability is improved, but reliability and operational time worsen
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using pivot points to connect segments, the invention uses a segmentation approach where rigid sections are joined through end connections. This eliminates the pivot points that are prone to failure, while still allowing the yardstick to be folded or disconnected for portability.
Solution Approach 2:
The problematic pivot points are extracted or removed from the design entirely. The connection mechanism between segments is replaced with end-to-end joining methods that avoid rotational joints, thereby eliminating the reliability issue associated with pivot point wear and breakage.
3Ease of operation
If a foldable configuration with pivot points is used, then portability is improved, but maintenance requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The pivot points requiring maintenance (oiling, cleaning) are extracted from the design. The replacement connection system uses simple end-to-end joining mechanisms that do not require rotational movement, thereby eliminating the need for routine maintenance of joints.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system is designed to be self-maintaining, requiring no user intervention for lubrication or adjustment. The rigid segments connect through simple mechanical interfaces that remain functional without maintenance, reducing the burden on the user.
4Ease of operation
If conventional foldable yardsticks are used, then portability is improved, but operational efficiency worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The yardstick segments are pre-configured with connection features that enable rapid assembly and disassembly. The segments can be quickly connected by aligning and joining ends, eliminating the time-consuming process of manually assembling multiple small pieces or dealing with complex folding mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The transition between folded and extended states is made dynamic and rapid through simple connection mechanisms. The rigid segments can be quickly deployed from a compact configuration to a measurement-ready configuration without the sluggish operation of traditional pivot-based folding systems.
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
The device reduces operational time, enhances durability, and facilitates easy storage and transport by automatically extending and collapsing, while maintaining rigidity in use, thus overcoming the limitations of conventional measuring devices.
Implementation Method 1
the convex surface of each member is resilient such that the convex surfaces are biased toward their stable convex shape and the measuring device is biased toward the extended condition
Implementation Method 2
A self-extending measuring device comprising two elongated members with convex surfaces made of flexible and resilient materials, housed in a flexible sleeve, that automatically extends and collapses using magnets or other securing means
Data Source
AI summary
A measuring device is provided that may be selectively configured between an extended condition and a collapsed condition. The device includes a first member, second member, flexible housing, and securing means. Each member has a proximal end, distal end, and convex surface. The convex surfaces are flexible such that the members may bend about a bending axis of the device and resilient such that the convex surfaces are biased toward their stable convex shape and the device is biased toward the extended condition. The first and the second members are disposed within the flexible housing to form a covered pair having a proximal end and a distal end. The apex of the convex surface of the first member is opposite the apex of the convex surface of the second member when the members are disposed within the flexible housing. The securing means secures the measuring device in the collapsed condition.