Tool Mount with Suction Cup and Multi-Modal Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a tool system that can be removably coupled to a surface, providing effective level indication and illumination, with features such as a bubble level, light system, laser generator, and audio feedback to ensure accurate leveling and surface attachment.
Innovation Solution
The tool assembly includes a frame with a bubble level, a light system that changes color based on leveling conditions, a laser generator assembly for beam adjustment, and an audio system for tone feedback, along with a suction cup and mount for secure surface attachment, allowing the tool to be translated and oriented relative to the surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a suction cup is used to attach the tool to a surface, then the tool can be removably coupled to various surfaces, but the attachment reliability may be insufficient on certain surface types
Solution Approach 1:
The base assembly incorporates a suction cup mechanism that can attach to multiple surface types (glass, metal, plastic, painted surfaces) through vacuum adhesion, providing universal surface compatibility while maintaining reliable attachment through the plunger-based vacuum control system
2Loss of information
If a light system with color-changing capability is added to indicate level conditions, then the level indication becomes more informative, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light system uses color-changing LEDs that emit different colors (e.g., green for level, red for tilted) to clearly indicate different level conditions. This provides rich information about the tool's orientation state while using a simple, integrated light module that minimizes overall system complexity
3Measurement precision
If multiple feedback systems (light, audio, laser) are integrated into the tool, then the leveling accuracy and user feedback is improved, but the device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple feedback systems (bubble level, light indicators, audio feedback, laser generator) into a single unified tool assembly. All these components work together to provide comprehensive leveling information through different sensory modalities, improving measurement precision while managing system complexity through integrated design
4Adaptability or versatility
If the laser generator assembly is made pivotally mounted to adjust the beam angle, then the adaptability to different target positions is improved, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The laser generator assembly is pivotally mounted to the frame, allowing dynamic adjustment of the laser beam angle. This enables the beam to be directed at different target positions and angles while maintaining a relatively simple pivotal mounting mechanism rather than complex multi-axis positioning systems
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
The tool assembly provides reliable level indication, secure surface attachment, and adjustable light and audio feedback, ensuring accurate leveling and ease of use across various surfaces.
Implementation Method 1
a suction cup configured to be releasably coupled to a surface
Implementation Method 2
The plunger is translatable along an axis relative to the housing to deform the suction cup when the suction cup is abutted to the surface such that air disposed between the suction cup and the surface is expelled from the suction cup
Implementation Method 3
a bubble level mounted to the frame and configured to indicate a levelness condition of the tool assembly
Implementation Method 4
a bubble level mounted to the frame and configured to indicate a levelness condition of the tool assembly
Implementation Method 5
a light guide that backs the light source. The light guide is configured to receive light from the light source and direct the light into the bubble level such that the bubble level is illuminated over substantially all of its length
Implementation Method 6
a laser generator mounted to the holder and configured to output a beam of light
Implementation Method 7
The mirror is mounted to the holder at a predetermined angle relative to the beam of light
Data Source
AI summary
A tool system with a mount configured to be removably coupled to a surface.