Reversible Spirit Level Clamp for Single-Operator Upright Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional spirit level operations require two operators, which is inefficient, and existing solutions do not adequately address the need for a single-operator operation that can withstand disturbances like hammering and provide convenient storage.
Innovation Solution
A device with a reversible body and movable arm that can be tensioned to securely mount onto an upright, featuring a pivot connection and resilient elements for stability, and a signaling system for orientation indication visible or audible from the front, allowing for one-operator operation and easy storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a conventional spirit level is used with two operators, then the upright can be righted, but the operation is inefficient and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The spirit level device is designed to autonomously attach to and hold the upright without requiring a second operator. The arm with contacting portions automatically engages the upright when the device is positioned against it, enabling a single operator to complete the righting operation independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The arm is designed to be movable relative to the body, allowing it to dynamically adjust and engage the upright. The arm can be positioned to contact the upright at different locations and maintain holding force through its movable connection to the body.
2Ease of operation
If the spirit level is designed to hold onto the upright, then single-operator operation is enabled, but the device becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into distinct functional components: a body for mounting and signaling, and a separate movable arm for engaging the upright. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while keeping the overall design relatively simple and modular.
3Reliability
If the arm extends rearwardly to engage the rear of the upright, then secure mounting is achieved, but the device is difficult to store
Solution Approach 1:
The arm is designed to be movable relative to the body, allowing it to be repositioned or retracted when not in use. This dynamic configuration enables the device to achieve secure mounting during operation while reducing its effective volume for storage purposes.
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 single-operator upright righting with enhanced stability against disturbances and convenient storage, improving efficiency and usability in construction contexts.
Implementation Method 1
the arm extending upwardly from the body and being movable relative to the body to enable a weight of the body to tension the arm
Implementation Method 2
resilient elements for stability
Data Source
AI summary
A device 1 mountable to an upright ST. The device comprises a body 3 and an arm 5. The body is reversible relative to the upright, about an upright axis, from a first orientation to a second orientation. The body comprises first contacting portions 3a (arranged to contact a front of the upright when the body is in the first orientation) and second contacting portions 3b (arranged to contact a front of the upright when the body is in the second orientation). The arm is movable relative to the body from a first position (in which the arm extends rearwardly beyond the first contacting portions to pass one side of the upright and engage a rear of the upright) to a second position (in which the arm extends rearwardly beyond the second contacting portions to pass another side of the upright and engage the rear of the upright).