Integrated Tape Measure Angle/Pitch Finder for Low-Light Use
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tape measures and angle/pitch finders are separate tools, requiring users to carry and switch between them, taking up space and causing frustration, especially in low-light conditions, with a need for a combined device that saves space and provides convenience.
Innovation Solution
A tape measure with a built-in angle/pitch finder that integrates a 15 to 50-foot tape measure with angle markings on the outside face, a clear plastic lens, and a built-in light, optionally digital with a readout display, allowing simultaneous measurement of dimensions and angles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If users carry separate tape measure and angle/pitch finder tools, then each tool can perform its specific function accurately, but it takes up valuable storage space and requires constant swapping between tools
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a tape measure and an angle/pitch finder into a single integrated device. The angle/pitch finder is mounted on the tape measure housing, allowing both tools to function together as one unit. This merging eliminates the need to carry separate tools, reducing storage space requirements while maintaining all functional capabilities of both individual tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated device performs multiple functions: it can measure linear distances using the tape measure component and measure angles or pitch using the angle/pitch finder component. This multi-functionality allows a single tool to replace what previously required two separate tools, addressing the need for versatility without increasing storage burden.
2Measurement precision
If angle/pitch finder is made large and bulky to provide accurate angle measurements, then measurement precision is improved, but it becomes less convenient to carry and use alongside a tape measure
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the angle/pitch finder with the tape measure housing, the device maintains accurate angle measurement capabilities while reducing the overall size and portability burden. The combined design allows users to carry one tool instead of two, improving ease of operation without sacrificing measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The angle/pitch finder is nested within or mounted on the tape measure housing, allowing one tool to be incorporated into the structure of the other. This nesting approach minimizes the increase in size while maintaining the functional integrity and measurement precision of the angle/pitch finder component.
3Loss of information
If angle/pitch finder markings are placed on the outside face of the case, then readability is improved, but the markings need protection from damage and environmental factors
Solution Approach 1:
A clear protective lens or cover is placed over the angle/pitch finder markings on the outside face of the case. This transparent protective layer shields the markings from damage, dust, and environmental factors while maintaining their readability. The clear lens allows users to read the markings accurately without exposing them to harmful external factors.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a built-in light is added to enable reading in low light conditions, then usability in various environments is improved, but device complexity and power requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The built-in light is integrated into the existing tape measure and angle/pitch finder device, combining illumination functionality with the measurement tools. This merging approach allows the device to function in low-light conditions without requiring separate lighting equipment, improving environmental adaptability while managing complexity through integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The addition of a built-in light expands the device's functionality to include illumination, making it usable in various lighting conditions including nighttime and low-light environments. This multi-functionality enhances environmental adaptability, allowing the same device to serve multiple purposes across different conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
A tape measure with built-in angle/pitch finder device that combines a tape measure and an angle/pitch finder into one tool is disclosed. The tape measure with built-in angle/pitch finder device is a 15 to 50 foot, for example, tape measure with the addition of angle/pitch finder markings on the outside face of the case, protected via a clear plastic lens. The tape measure can also be made with a light inside of it to read the markings in low light conditions. Digital models can be available with a readout display on the exterior of the housing. Thus, users can apply the device to measure degree or pitch of a roof, measure dimensions, and other applications with a single tool.