Trip Hazard Gauge Vertical Elevation Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring the difference in elevation between adjacent concrete slabs are time-consuming and require estimators to kneel at the site, making it difficult to accurately estimate the surface area for chamfer cuts and provide precise cost estimates, especially when dealing with uneven sidewalk sections.
Innovation Solution
A trip hazard measurement gauge with a spring-biased inner tube and a ruler extending from an outer tube, equipped with a bubble leveling instrument and a device holder for a GPS-equipped tablet or smartphone, allowing for quick and accurate measurement of elevation differences while standing, with the option for a digital LCD readout in an alternative embodiment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional measurement methods are used to measure elevation differences between concrete slabs, then measurement accuracy can be maintained, but the measurement process becomes time-consuming and requires estimators to kneel at the measurement site
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional horizontal measurement methods to a vertical measurement approach. The gauge is held vertically with the rule extending upward from the lower slab surface, allowing the estimator to read measurements while standing. This dimensional change eliminates the need to kneel and significantly reduces measurement time while maintaining accuracy through the vertical alignment of the rule with the elevation difference.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a bubble level as an intermediary component to ensure vertical alignment of the gauge. The bubble level provides visual feedback to confirm that the rule is perfectly vertical, which is essential for accurate elevation measurements. This intermediary mechanism enables quick verification of proper gauge orientation without compromising measurement precision.
2Measurement precision
If detailed surface area calculations are performed for chamfer cuts to provide accurate cost estimates, then cost estimation precision is improved, but the complexity of the estimation process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables estimators to quickly obtain accurate elevation measurements before performing calculations. By having the gauge ready and able to rapidly measure multiple points, all necessary data for surface area calculations can be collected efficiently in advance. This preliminary data collection simplifies the subsequent estimation process, as accurate measurements are already available without requiring complex measurement procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex manual measurement procedures with a simplified mechanical gauge system. The spring-biased rule automatically extends to the correct measurement position, and the bubble level automatically indicates vertical alignment. This mechanical substitution eliminates the need for complex manual alignment and measurement techniques, reducing process complexity while maintaining or improving measurement accuracy.
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 rapid, accurate measurement of elevation differences between concrete slabs, allowing estimators to record data with location information, facilitating efficient job estimation and cost quoting, and improving the speed and accuracy of sidewalk repairs.
Implementation Method 1
The inner tube is spring biased in a downwardly direction, so that when the inner tube is positioned at its downward limit, the stationary foot and the movable foot are equiplanar
Implementation Method 2
In order to enhance the accuracy of the measurements, the gauge is equipped with a bubble leveling instrument so that the estimator can ascertain when the gauge is vertical
Data Source
AI summary
A trip hazard measurement gauge is, except for a measurement module and display, constructed primarily of aluminum. A cylindrical tube has an upper straight section and a lower straight section that are interconnected by a curved section. The upper straight section and the lower straight section form an obtuse angle. A cylindrical aluminum housing is connected to the tube via a conical connecter piece. A non-movable foot is rigidly connected to the cylindrical housing. A measurement module is installed within the cylindrical housing. A slidable rule, to which a movable foot is attached to a lower end thereof, extends from the measurement module. A return spring ensures that the movable foot returns to its lowermost position. After turning ON the display, selecting the measurement system and zeroing the gauge, it is ready to measure differences in elevation between adjacent sidewalk slabs.