Slope Angle Gauge With Radiating Reference Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Determining the angle of sloped ground in construction projects is challenging, especially when slopes are steep, as existing methods like inclinometers require multiple measurements and are hazardous to use, and there is a need for a safer and more efficient way to assess compliance with standards.
Innovation Solution
A hand-held gauge with a transparent window and spatial reference for orientation, featuring lines radiating at standard angles, allowing users to determine the slope angle by aligning the gauge with the slope and identifying the appropriate line, which can be used from a safe distance or with obstructions present.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If inclinometers are used to measure excavation slopes, then measurement capability is provided, but multiple measurements are required and safety risks increase due to the need to stand on steep slopes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a gauge as an intermediary tool that allows measurement of slope angles from a safe distance. The gauge includes a transparent panel with spatial references and angle indicators that can be positioned remotely on the slope without requiring the operator to stand on unstable ground. This mediator tool transfers the measurement function from a hazardous location to a safe observation point.
Solution Approach 2:
The gauge creates a visual copy or representation of the slope angle through its transparent panel with overlaid angle indicators. By aligning the gauge with the slope and observing which angle line matches the slope profile, the user obtains a copied measurement without physical contact with the hazardous slope surface, eliminating the need to stand on steep ground.
2Measurement precision
If inclinometers are used to measure uneven ground slopes, then measurement is possible, but multiple measurements and averaging are required due to slope unevenness
Solution Approach 1:
The gauge divides the slope measurement into discrete angular segments represented by multiple angle lines on the transparent panel. Each line represents a specific angle (e.g., 15°, 30°, 45°), allowing the user to directly identify which segment matches the slope without taking multiple measurements and calculating averages. This segmentation provides immediate visual feedback for uneven slopes.
Solution Approach 2:
The gauge provides excessive angular references beyond what a single measurement would provide. By including multiple angle lines covering a range of possible slopes, the tool allows direct comparison and selection of the matching angle, eliminating the need for multiple incremental measurements and mathematical averaging that would otherwise be required for uneven terrain.
3Measurement precision
If a surveyor is present on site to determine slope compliance, then accurate angle determination is possible, but the complexity and cost of the operation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The gauge is designed as a self-service tool that enables any worker to perform slope angle measurements without requiring specialized surveying equipment or trained surveyors. The transparent panel with clear spatial references and angle indicators allows users to independently determine compliance with slope standards through simple visual alignment, eliminating the need for complex surveying operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical surveying instruments (inclinometers, theodolites) with a simple optical gauge based on transparent panel alignment. This substitution eliminates the need for mechanical measurement systems requiring multiple components, calibration, and specialized operation, reducing both device complexity and operational complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A gauge for determining the angle of sloped ground includes a panel, having a transparent window located in it, which can be held by a user so that the sloped ground can be viewed through the window. The panel has a spatial reference associated with it which allows the panel to be oriented properly with respect to the horizontal or vertical. Inscribed on the window are a positioning indicia and a plurality of lines which radiate outwardly from the positioning indicia at specific angles with respect to the horizontal. In use the panel is held such that the positioning indicia is located on the slope. The user can then determine which one of the lines overlies the slope. The angle associated with that line is the angle of the slope.