Abstract: Telescoping tubes can have holes distributed in the pattern of a vernier caliper, thereby providing an easy means of locking the tubes in a desired length. Similarly, plates can have holes distributed in two dimensions in the pattern of a vernier caliper's, thereby providing a means of accurately locking size in two dimensions.

Abstract: Scanning devices are used to enter graphic information into computer systems. They typically use photo-optic detectors. Digitizing devices are used to enter coordinate positions into computer systems. One technique uses styluses, either fingers or light emitters. This invention shows how the same photo-optical systems can perform both functions.

Abstract: .[.A scanning and digitizing device where the same photodetectors are used in a scanning mode and in a digitizing mode. In the scanning mode graphic information is scanned. In the digitizing mode coordinate positions of a stylus is determined. The photodetectors are used in the imaging portion of this device which imaging portion is a rangefinder in the digitizing mode..]..Iadd.A combination scanning and digitizing device is described in which the same photodetectors are cooperatively used to scan graphic information on paper or other planar material and also to determine the position of a stylus. Stylus position detection is by means of a rangefinder. .Iaddend.