Technical Design Theory

Technical Design Theory

SmartTool is designed around a patented, proprietary, fluid technology, variable capacitance inclinometer sensor. The sensor takes advantage of the fact that the surface of a liquid is always flat to gravity. As the sensor is rotated, the fluid seeks a new position. The electronics then converts this capacitive signal to the digital output on the display.

Critical to the sensors operation is the proprietary chemical processing required to make the measuring surface suitable for fast settling times and accurate measurements. Due to the extreme accuracy of the sensor, the completed is manufactured in a Class 10,000 clean room in Oklahoma City and baked at the factory for 7 days to assure the quality that has become SmartTools reputation. The liquid technology and the stability of the chemicals used insure the sensors are very resistant to problems with temperature change or physical shock and remain accurate over many years. Calls are often received from customers with levels over 10 years old who have lost their manuals and need a new copy but are still enjoying the use of the SmartLevel. Over 2 million of the sensors have been sold using this technology with most still in use today.

Due to the design of the sensor, the SmartTool products areresistant to problems associated with temperature. In addition to the inclinometer sensor, the software includes an algorithm that further serves as back-up to assure stability in temperature extremes. Accelerometer based technology levels have shown in our testing to have variations to beyond their own stated specifications.

Also key is the patented field calibration process which returns the SmartTool to factory accuracy after drops or extreme temperature changes. The process involves taking a reading on a relatively flat surface and pressing the calibration button which records that reading. The SmartTool is then rotated end for end (on its y axis) and the calibration button is again pressed which logs another reading. The SmartTool electronics automatically inputs the calculated offset into the module electronics and re-calibrates the tool. Calibration can be performed at level (0 degrees), plumb (90 degrees), and on the top or bottom surface of the level to assure the maximum accuracy of measurements taken. This process is patented and owned exclusively by M-D Building Products. All levels, including mechanical only levels, will vary with temperature extremes or with shock due to dropping, accidents, etc. Risk is taken by the end user if the level does not provide for calibration in both the horizontal and plumb positions on both top and bottom surfaces.