Stud Finder Using Photochromic Compound for Automatic Wall Marking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Prior handheld detector devices for locating objects behind substrates, such as studs, do not allow for one-handed operation as they fail to create marks or records of object locations on the substrate, requiring users to interpret display devices and manually mark object locations.
Innovation Solution
A handheld detector device using one or more LEDs in combination with a photochromic compound to mark locations on a substrate, which changes color upon exposure to specific light wavelengths, allowing for automatic and distinguishable marking of object locations, including differentiating between types of objects using varying mark styles and thickness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If prior art detector devices use display devices to indicate object locations, then object locations can be identified, but users cannot perform one-handed operation as manual marking is required
Solution Approach 1:
The detector device automatically marks object locations on the substrate without requiring user intervention. The LED emits light that directly exposes the photochromic compound on the substrate, creating permanent marks at detected locations. This self-service marking mechanism eliminates the need for manual marking while enabling one-handed operation.
Solution Approach 2:
A photochromic compound serves as an intermediary between the LED and the substrate. The compound absorbs UV light from the LED and undergoes a color change, creating visible marks that indicate object locations. This intermediary enables automatic marking while maintaining simplicity in the overall system.
2Reliability
If manual marking is used to record object locations, then permanent records are created, but user convenience is reduced due to two-handed operation requirement
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic marking without requiring user action. When the detector identifies an object location, the LED automatically exposes the photochromic compound at that location, creating a permanent visual record. This eliminates the need for users to manually mark locations while maintaining reliable recording.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical marking action (pencil, pen, or marker) is replaced by an optical system. The LED emits UV light that chemically alters the photochromic compound, creating marks through a photochemical process rather than mechanical deposition. This substitution maintains marking reliability while improving ease of operation.
3Loss of information
If multiple object types are detected, then comprehensive information is provided, but differentiation between object types becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
Different object types are marked with distinct local qualities through varying mark patterns. The system can create different mark styles (e.g., solid lines for studs, dashed lines for pipes, dotted lines for wires) at different locations based on the detected object type. This local differentiation maintains comprehensive information while avoiding complex overall system design.
Solution Approach 2:
The photochromic compound undergoes color changes when exposed to UV light, and this effect can be varied to indicate different object types. By controlling the exposure pattern, duration, or intensity of the LED, different visual characteristics can be created in the photochromic compound to distinguish between various object types, providing comprehensive information through simple visual differentiation.
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 one-handed operation by automatically marking object locations on the substrate with photochromic compounds, allowing for easy identification and differentiation of object types, improving user convenience and accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
Photochromic materials are those that undergo a reversible change in color upon exposure to certain wavelengths of light, such as ultraviolet light
Data Source
AI summary
An improved detector device for locating studs and other objects behind a substrate (such as a wall) uses one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) in combination with a photochromic compound to mark the locations on the substrate behind which objects are located.