Grade Rod Tripod

thingiverse

This set of parts was designed to utilize 1/2 inch EMT conduit in creating a tripod grade rod holder. A grade rod is akin to a yardstick featuring precise markings, intended to be read from a distance. In my case, I possess an old auto-level, a device that maintains a line-of-sight level with the earth's surface. The auto-level, paired with a grade rod, enables measurement of relative elevations between different points. While utilizing these tools, my assistant typically becomes fatigued from holding the grade rod or I may be solo without assistance. To address this, I sought to create a simple device that could hold the grade rod upright while I take measurements. The primary component is the tripod head, which secures three sections of conduit at a 25-degree angle from vertical. The interior of the head has been hollowed out to minimize material usage. Additionally, on windy days, weights can be hung from the head using a string for enhanced stability. A double clamp allows for an additional three sections of conduit to be integrated for adjustability purposes. To prevent dirt accumulation within the conduit ends, I fashioned feet that fit snugly onto them. A spiked foot variant may prove useful in pushing down into the ground slightly for added stability.