Torpedo Level Magnet Embedding in Extruded Body
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing magnetic leveling devices, such as torpedo levels, face issues with insufficient magnetic strength due to the use of strip magnets and the risk of rare earth magnets dislodging or shattering upon impact, particularly in extruded metal constructions.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a channel in the working surface of the torpedo level with a series of rare earth magnets and spacers, where the magnets are held flush and can be securely retained, optionally with adhesive, to enhance magnetic adhesion and provide cushioning against impacts through the use of magnet carriers and curved metal springs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If strip magnets are used in the leveling device, then the device can be manufactured with simple extruded metal construction, but the magnetic adhesion strength is insufficient to hold the level securely to ferrous surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the magnetic material parameter from conventional strip magnets to rare earth magnets, which provide significantly stronger magnetic adhesion force while maintaining compatibility with the extruded metal construction method
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite structure by embedding rare earth magnets within the extruded metal body, combining the manufacturing simplicity of extrusion with the superior magnetic properties of rare earth materials
2Force
If rare earth magnets are press-fitted into circular holes in the body, then strong magnetic adhesion is achieved, but the magnets may dislodge or shatter upon impact
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates cushioning elements within the extruded metal body that surround and protect the rare earth magnets, absorbing impact forces before they can reach the magnets and prevent dislodgment or shattering
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses flexible or resilient material layers within the extruded body to create a protective environment around the magnets, allowing the structure to deform under impact and return to its original shape, thereby protecting the magnets
3Adaptability or versatility
If magnets are housed away from the working surface in magnet carriers inserted into grooves, then the same body can be used for both magnetic and nonmagnetic versions, but the magnetic force exerted on the workpiece is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the magnet carrier groove design from the extruded metal body, eliminating the need for internal grooves and magnet carriers, and instead directly embedding the magnets in the working surface to maximize magnetic force
4Reliability
If circular rare earth magnets are press-fitted into circular holes with adhesive, then magnet retention is improved, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the magnet embedding process with the extrusion manufacturing process itself, incorporating magnet retention features directly into the extruded metal body structure, thereby eliminating separate assembly steps while maintaining strong magnet retention
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
This configuration significantly improves the magnetic adhesion strength and durability of the leveling device, ensuring reliable attachment to ferrous surfaces while minimizing the risk of magnet dislodgment or damage from impacts.
Implementation Method 1
magnetic torpedo levels may adhere to these surfaces when in use
Implementation Method 2
provide cushioning against impacts through the use of magnet carriers and curved metal springs
Data Source
AI summary
A leveling device having at least one opening that houses a leveling vial and having a channel formed from a working surface, where at least one magnet and at least one spacer are retained in the channel.