Abstract: A gauge for measuring the magnitude of a measurable quantity, such as fluid pressure. The gauge includes a rotatable axle or shaft intended to rotate in response to different magnitudes of the quantity being measured and includes a dial possessing indicia corresponding to different magnitudes of such quantity. The improvement in the gauge relates to a very light-weight pointer having a needle section and a counterbalance section, in which the needle section is formed of a relatively light mass material, preferably balsa wood. The counterbalance section may be fashioned of a different, denser material. The surface of the counterbalance section may be provided with a series of parallel depressions that aid in cutting or trimming the counterbalance section to achieve a balance of the pointer about the axle or shaft. A method of making such a pointer is also disclosed.

Abstract: A blood pressure measuring apparatus includes a gage and sleeve attached to the gage that includes an interior pressure chamber. A diaphragm is disposed within the gage, the diaphragm being responsive to pressure changes in said sleeve, wherein the diaphragm is fabricated from a nickel-beryllium alloy.