Single-Tube Level, Plumb, and 45-Degree Orientation Instrument
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional levels require multiple tubes for measuring level, plumb, and 45-degree orientations, which are cumbersome and increase manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A single elongated body with integrated orientation indicators capable of indicating level, plumb, and 45-degree orientations, featuring a chamber with a bubble and indicator lines, and a calibration mechanism for recalibration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate tubes are used to measure level, plumb, and 45-degree orientations, then measurement coverage is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate tubes (level tube, plumb tube, 45-degree tube) into a single integrated tube structure. This single tube contains multiple bubbles positioned at different orientations, allowing all three measurement functions to be performed with one component rather than three separate components, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining full measurement coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The single integrated tube serves multiple functions simultaneously - it can measure level orientations, plumb orientations, and 45-degree orientations all within the same tube structure. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate specialized tubes for each measurement type, resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity
2Measurement precision
If multiple separate tubes are used for different orientations, then measurement accuracy is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple tubes into one integrated structure, the patent reduces the total number of components that need to be manufactured, assembled, and quality-checked. This consolidation maintains measurement accuracy through precise positioning of multiple bubbles within the single tube while significantly reducing manufacturing costs associated with producing and assembling multiple separate tubes
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate tubes are used, then orientation measurement capability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of multiple measurement functions into a single tube simplifies the user experience by eliminating the need to switch between or select among multiple separate tubes. The user can access all orientation measurements (level, plumb, 45-degree) from one unified component, making the instrument easier to operate while maintaining comprehensive measurement capability
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 and cost-effective measurement of multiple orientations using a single device, reducing manufacturing costs and simplifying usage.
Implementation Method 1
When the elongated body is placed horizontally on a substantially level surface, the bubble will travel to the approximate highest central point of the chamber relative to the ground
Data Source
AI summary
An instrument for determining level, plumb, and 45-degree orientations includes an elongated body having a plurality of orientation indicators, wherein each of the orientation indicators is capable of indicating level, plumb, and 45-degree orientation in accordance with the current position of the elongated body. The instrument further includes a calibration mechanism for re-calibrating the orientation indicators.