Slope Angle Gauge with Transparent Window and Radiating Lines
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining the angle of sloped ground, such as inclinometers, are inadequate for measuring uneven slopes and pose safety risks due to the need for multiple measurements and potential cave-ins when standing on steep slopes.
Innovation Solution
A hand-held gauge with a transparent window and spatial references allows users to orient the device horizontally or vertically, featuring lines radiating at standard angles for slope measurement, enabling accurate angle determination from a safe distance or off-site using images or photographs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If inclinometers are used to measure excavation slopes, then angle 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 theodolite as an intermediary measurement device that can determine slope angles from a safe distance without requiring the operator to stand on the steep slope. The theodolite measures the angle between the horizontal plane and the line of sight to a target point on the slope, eliminating the need for direct contact with the hazardous terrain while providing accurate angle measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a visual representation (copy) of the slope by projecting grid lines and slope indicators onto a transparent panel that displays the viewed terrain. This optical copy allows the operator to measure slope angles by comparing the terrain features with the projected reference lines, enabling measurement from a safe position rather than requiring direct placement of measurement equipment on the slope.
2Measurement precision
If inclinometers are used to measure uneven slopes, then angle measurement is possible, but multiple measurements must be taken and averaged due to the limited measurement portion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional linear measurement (inclinometer along a single line) to two-dimensional angular measurement (theodolite measuring angles in a vertical plane). By measuring the angle between the horizontal plane and the line of sight to multiple points on the uneven slope, the system captures slope variations across a broader area in a single measurement session, eliminating the need for multiple sequential measurements along the slope surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The theodolite serves multiple functions: it measures horizontal angles, vertical angles, and can calculate slope percentages and angles from these measurements. This multi-functionality allows a single device to replace multiple specialized inclinometer measurements, reducing the total number of measurements required while maintaining or improving measurement comprehensiveness for uneven terrain.
3Measurement precision
If a surveyor is present on site to determine slope angles, then accurate measurement is possible, but the cost and complexity of the project increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables construction workers or other non-specialist personnel to perform slope angle measurements using the theodolite and transparent panel system. The visual feedback provided by the projected grid lines and slope indicators on the transparent panel allows users to self-correct and achieve accurate measurements without requiring specialized surveying training or the presence of a professional surveyor, thereby reducing project complexity and cost.
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.