Abstract: A device for recording audio data including a housing and means positioned on the housing for recording audible data, means for repositioning to a prerecorded audio message. The device further includes means positioned on the housing for playing back the recorded audible. The device is connected to a measurement apparatus via a connecting means. A user is able to record, rewind and playback the audio data while operating the measurement apparatus.

Abstract: A tape measure marker device is attachable to a common tape measure blade. The marker device has a central body portion with a pair of downwardly depending legs, each with an inwardly facing flange that helps hold the marker device to the tape measure blade. The ends of the facing flanges are spaced apart and together with the underside of the two legs and the central body portion form an open cavity that is configured to receive a common tape measure blade. The convex underside of the central body portion is adapted to nest with the top face of the tape measure blade. In operation, the marker device is manually slid along the tape measure blade until a registration mark, which may be printed, embossed or engraved on the surface of the device, aligns with a point that is to be measured. The coplanar underside of the flanges on the device allows the marker device and the tape measure blade to lie directly against a device that is to be measured.

Abstract: This invention is directed to an automatic tape measure having a housing, a tape assembly, and a light assembly. The tape assembly is supported in the housing and contains a reel having a tape adapted to extend and retract from the front wall of the housing. The light assembly is received in the housing and contains a power source, a light source, a switch, and a lens. The lens is coupled with an opening in the front wall of the housing and is adapted to move between a first position where the light source passes through the lens and a second position where the light source projects downwardly onto the extended tape.

Abstract: A tape measure that incorporates a marking device for allowing an individual to measure and mark a wide variety of materials in a more efficient and economical manner, and for measuring and marking the beginning point of reference and the measured position point simultaneously. The tape measure has a housing, a coiled measuring tape, a tape tip, a chalk line, a chalk receptacle, a chalk line recharger, an activator, and an advancer. The chalk line is easily advanced and retracted for making marks at varying distances. The chalk is stored in a chalk storage receptacle that allows the chalk line to be re-chalked and is refillable for multiple uses. The activator allows the retractable chalk line to transfer a chalk substance from the chalk line to the surface to be measured and marked.

Abstract: An assembly of a tape measure and a screwdriver includes a tape measure having a case, a ruler received in the case, an outlet being defined in the bottom of one side of the case for extension of the ruler, a receiving chamber being defined in one surface of the case and extending to an edge of the case, a pressing unit being disposed at one side of the case; and a screwdriver mechanism movably disposed in the receiving chamber of the case, the screwdriver mechanism having a positioning unit corresponding to the pressing unit. Thus, the assembly has functions of a tape measure and a screwdriver for easy use.

Abstract: The present invention provides a measuring device comprising a measuring tape, and a coupling hingedly mounted to the free end of the measuring tape, the coupling comprising a first section and a second section, wherein the first section and the second section are substantially perpendicular to one another, the coupling being moveable between a first state in which the first section is disposed substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the measuring tape, and a second state in which the second section is disposed substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the measuring tape.

Abstract: A structure of head for the measuring tapes includes a moving part pivoted on a tape hook of the tape head, such that the moving part can overturn upwards and downwards on the tape hook and has the front portion thereof pivoting a wheel, wherein the wheel contacts with the object to measure or other contact areas as the tape is to be output and the output of the tape is facilitated through the rotation of the wheel.

Abstract: Provided is a caliper extender, which fits over a tape measure blade, enabling accurate measurements to be taken of an inside dimension. Extender slides along blade and is positioned against one wall of the inside dimension. Blade is then repositioned flat against extender and a measurement reading is taken. A pointer may also be incorporated into extender to indicate a tape marking corresponding to an accurate measurement. In the alternative, a caliper extender is incorporated into a tape measure such that extender can be disengaged from a casing of tape measure, slid along a blade and a measurement reading taken through a window in a channel through which blade is installed.

Abstract: A device for holding together a measuring tape and a cutting blade. This device comprises a flat shaped housing which includes a first shallow cavity into which a first portion of the cutting blade can be inserted; a second cavity in the shape of a slot, into which the tape bracket can be inserted; a cover hingedly attached to the housing for covering the first cavity; and a snap latch mechanism for locking the cover to, or unlocking it from, the housing. The device also comprises a blade safeguard shield attached by a hinge to the housing, for optionally covering the unshielded portion of the blade when the device is not in use.

Abstract: A construction tool has a tape measure. A handle is coupled to the tape measure. The handle allows a user of any size or shape hand to comfortably and easily use the tape measure.

Abstract: A cover body (100), formed of an elastic member for covering a slider body (510) of a caliper, is provided with concavities and convexities (112) on the inner surface thereof and concavities and convexities (103) on the outer surface thereof. The cover body (100) is arranged so that it is easily deformed elastically in the portion of the concavities and convexities. When a shock is given from the outside, the portion of the concavities and convexities is deformed elastically to absorb the shock, hence the shock given to the slider body (510) is reduced. Accordingly, damage or failure hardly occurs on the measuring instrument.

Abstract: A terminal, for use with a phreatic surface measurer having a tape measure with at least one sensor at one end of the tape measure, includes a flexible protection element that substantially surrounds the tape measure, and a coupler between the flexible protection element and the sensor, where the flexible protection element protects the tape measure along a part of its length without substantially impeding its flexibility. Optionally, two elements can be used and connected to each other by a connector. Also optionally, a breakaway feature can allow the replacement of terminals or portions thereof.

Abstract: A lay-out tool assembly includes a square having a base component with a straight edge and with trough structure in which a carpenter's pencil is seated, an abrasive area for sharpening the pencil, and wall structure on which a tape measure is mounted for use in cooperation with the base.

Abstract: The invention called a Framer's Tape Hook is a modification of a tape hook, which is attached to a retractable tape measure. The modification adds the capacity to offset the tape hook by ½ the thickness of any framing member. The purpose of this modification is to mark the edge locations of wall studs, floor and ceiling joist, rafters, and trusses. The Framer's Tape Hook can extend ¾ of an inch for dimension lumber. The Framer's Tape Hook can extend ? of an inch for LGS, or light gauge steel studs. The Framer's Tape Hook can extend 1¼ inches for 2½ inch wide strapping. The Framer's Tape Hook can be set, to accommodate any stud, joist, or rafter size. The Framer's Tape Hook adds speed and accuracy when marking layout, whether it is a 16 inch on-center layout, 24 inch on-center layout, or any other desired layout.

Abstract: The motorized chalk box includes a chalk line reel having an internal ring gear. An electric motor drives a pinion gear, which engages the ring gear, thus resulting in a very compact assembly. The motor and gearing are sealed from the chalk dust reservoir, through which the chalk line passes. The housing comprises two components secured by a single screw to facilitate minor maintenance. A spring loaded, automatically releasing line clip extends from the distal end of the chalk line. The line clip includes a spring-loaded sleeve, which is biased against the anchor (screw, nail, etc.) when in place. Releasing the tension on the chalk line causes the sleeve to spring against the anchor, thus kicking the line clip away from the anchor. The chalk box may thus be operated using only one hand, greatly improving safety for workers in elevated environments.

Abstract: A compass assembly includes a tape measure apparatus that includes a housing and a tape measure removably extendable outwardly of the housing. A disc has a top side, a bottom side and a peripheral edge. The disc has a centrally located opening extending therethrough. A base is positioned in the opening. A spindle is attached to the base. A pointer is rotatably attached the spindle. A saddle configured to releasably hold the housing is rotatably coupled to the spindle. The housing is mounted on the saddle. A holder configured to releasably hold a writing utensil has an upper side, a lower side and a peripheral wall. A slit extends into the peripheral wall. A fastener releasably secures a free end of the tape to the holder. A writing utensil is removably secured to the peripheral wall with a securing member.

Abstract: This invention is directed to a moveable catch. An automatic tape measure has a housing and a tape assembly. The tape assembly is supported in the housing and contains a tape switch, a reel, a drive, the movable catch, and a tape adapted to extend and retract from the front wall of the housing. The movable catch is coupled to a distal end of the tape. The movable catch includes a body, a spring, and a tongue. The tongue is pivotably coupled with the body via an axle. Thus, when the tape is extended, the tongue can pivot about the axle when it encounters an object in its path. The spring is positioned around the axle and causes the catch to return to its original, generally perpendicular position once the tongue passes the object.

Abstract: A miter measuring tape, for allowing a workman to readily and quickly measure a section of window or door frame casing stock from the inside point of a miter cut end of said stock section, having a tape measure with a hooking member of adjustable and fixable length pivotally connected to one end of said tape measure at the proximal end of said hooking member, with said hooking member having a hook at the distal end of said hooking member, said hook being used to secure the miter measuring tape to the outside point of said miter cut end of said stock section.

Abstract: This invention is directed to an automatic tape measure having a housing, a tape assembly, and a light assembly. The tape assembly is supported in the housing and contains a reel having a tape adapted to extend and retract from the front wall of the housing. The light assembly is received in the housing and contains a power source, a light source, a switch, and a lens. The lens is coupled with an opening in the front wall of the housing and is adapted to move between a first position where the light source passes through the lens and a second position where the light source projects downwardly onto the extended tape.

Abstract: A tape measure system for efficiently marking a measured object. The tape measure system includes a housing with a recoil unit containing a length of a tape measure, a dispensing neck extending from the housing for guiding and dispensing the tape measure, and wherein the dispensing neck includes a guide edge for marking a surface of a measured object. A pair of teeth extend from the dispensing neck for selectively engaging and marking the surface of the measured object. The dispensing neck includes a recessed portion exposing a portion of the tape measure for allowing frictional engagement of the tape measure by the user.

Abstract: The invention is a rotatable attachment for a conventional tape measure. The attachment can be used to measure angles. This attachment increases the utility of the tape measure, allowing both angle measurement and distance measurement with one device.

Abstract: A tape measure comprises a main case having first and second sidewalls and a peripheral wall extending between the sidewalls; a flexible tape blade selectively deployable from the case; the tape blade having a generally curved cross-sectional profile when deployed from the main case and having a generally flat profile when retracted into the main case; a hook attached to a first end of the tape blade so as to be movable a distance along a longitudinal axis of the tape blade; the hook having a first section disposed generally parallel to the longitudinal axis and a second section connected thereto and disposed generally normal to the longitudinal axis, the hook having a weight factor of not more than about 0.60. The tape blade may advantageously be not more than about 1.10 inch in width and have a standout of at least 9½ feet.

Abstract: Provided is a caliper extender (100), which fits over a tape measure blade (124), enabling accurate measurements to be taken of an inside dimension (142). Extender (100) slides along blade (124) and is positioned against one wall of the inside dimension (142). Blade (124) is then repositioned flat against extender (100) and a measurement reading is taken. A pointer (110) may also be incorporated into extender (100) to indicate a tape marking (202, 204, 206, 208 or 210) corresponding to an accurate measurement. In the alternative, a caliper extender (160) is incorporated into a tape measure (350) such that extender (160) can be disengaged from a casing (352) of tape measure (350), slid along a blade (190) and a measurement reading taken through a window (308) in a channel (304) through which blade (190) is installed.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a tape measure which has at least one roller provided in the front surface of a housing, thus protecting the fingers of a user. The tape measure of the present invention includes a housing, a circumferential outer surface of which is covered with a grip. The housing has a neck extending from the front surface of the housing, thus forming upper and lower concave parts on upper and lower surfaces of the neck, respectively. The housing further has a tape extraction hole formed in a lower end of the front surface of the neck. The tape measure further includes a bobbin rotatably provided at a central portion in the housing, with a coil spring mounted in the bobbin; and a tape coupled at a first end thereof to the coil spring of the bobbin and extending at a second end thereof to the outside of the housing through the tape extraction hole, so that the tape is extracted to the outside through the tape extraction hole.

Abstract: A measuring device including a mechanism for measuring such as a tape measure, the mechanism for measuring having a end hook; and a mechanism for selectively securing, such as a magnet, the tape to an object, such as a pipe, the mechanism for selective securing being attached to the end hook of the mechanism for measuring.

Abstract: A tape measure that incorporates a marking device for allowing an individual to measure and mark a wide variety of materials in a more efficient and economical manner, and for measuring and marking the beginning point of reference and the measured position point simultaneously. The tape measure has a housing, a coiled measuring tape, a tape tip, and a marker having a marking wheel mounted on an axle. The marking wheel having a belt configured for transferring a powdered marking substance, such as chalk, to the surface to be measured and marked.

Abstract: A measuring and layout device having a stationary member having a flat surface adapted to be marked on and an angle and distance device rotatably coupled to the stationary member. The angle and distance device includes a longitudinally and laterally rigid extendable tape that can be extended from a central point and that has an edge that facilitates reliably marking on the stationary member to form an accurate template as the angle and distance device is rotated and the tape is extended and retracted to critical features of an area.

Abstract: A holder and guide for a measuring tape and a process of making and using the holder. The holder is made up of a hollow tube having a rectangular cross section. The tube has a slit or gap running the length of the tube to enable a measuring tape to be inserted. A magnet is attached to an exterior portion of the tube. The holder enables a user to insert any portion of a measuring tape inside the tube without having to insert the end of the tape measure therein. The holder facilitates in making measurements using a measuring tape, especially when a long distance is being measured and it is inconvenient to insert an end of the measuring tape through the guide to secure a middle portion of the measuring tape during measurement. The holder also has a magnet that attaches the holder to metallic objects enabling a single user to more easily make measurements using a measuring tape.

Abstract: An adjustable position tool guide is disclosed for performing operations with tools on a work piece at an accurate distance and orientation with respect to edges or other features of the work piece in a highly convenient manner. The tool guide includes a base for positioning on the work piece. The base has a base edge for aligning in a substantially parallel orientation to a longitudinal axis of the work piece, and a work edge oriented perpendicular to the base edge for being oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the work piece when the base edge is aligned parallel with the longitudinal axis. The guide also includes a tape measure mounting assembly mounted on the base for mounting a tape measure on the base. The tape measure mounting assembly is slidably moveable on the base along a line oriented substantially parallel to the base edge of the base.

Abstract: An improved tape measure apparatus which can be used as a marking gauge and/or compass comprising a tape measure, an insert comprising a base, a guide attached to the base and generally parallel to graduated indicia markings of the rule blade when extended from the tape measure whereby the graduated markings of the tape measure's rule blade may be read. An alternative embodiment includes an insert enabling standard tape measures to be used as marking gauges and/or compasses.

Abstract: A securing device and method for assisting in the measurement of workpieces having mitered ends, including a clamp with two opposable arms for temporarily retaining the workpiece therebetween, including at least one arm extension providing a retaining edge to engage the distal end of a measurement tape at a reference point adjacent the distal end of a workpiece for measurement, the retaining edge receiving the end of a measurement tape allowing it to be withdrawn without slipping. A kit providing at least two of the arm extensions to be slidably attached over the arms of the clamp and providing a structure can retrofit a standard commercially available clamp, each of the mounting extensions include an arm receiving recess which can attach to the end of the arms of the clamp, the recess being shaped and configured to slidably engage the arm to hold the arm extension by interference fit.

Abstract: A compact and portable measuring device that is quickly and easily attachable to a fish holding device, at an end of the fish, and provides a visually readable scale, which can be used to easily identify the length of the fish and can later be read in a photograph of the fish and measuring device, even if taken at a distance away from the fish and the device.

Abstract: A measurement marking and scoring device includes a platform configured to be affixed to a base of a tape measure. A marking member extends from the platform and defines a sharpened edge or point marking surface at a lower end thereof. An alignment tab extends from the marking member so as to be positioned over indicia of a tape extended from the tape measure so that measurement marks or score lines can be created on a working surface upon application of pressure to the marking member or tape measure. In another form, the device is integrally formed into a tape measure such that the marking member extends from a front edge of the tape measure.

Abstract: A device for attachment to a retractable tape measure is provided which functions as a finger guard and a measurement index either fixed or moveably attached to the tape storage case or measurement tape. A measurement index or scoring feature is provided to insure accurate and repeatable measurements directed perpendicularly to the direction of tape extension.

Abstract: An improved chalk line tip for a chalk-line. The tip having a string attachment portion, having a first end configured to receive a pivot pin therein and extending in a generally arcuately shaped configuration toward a second end, which is also configured to receive a pivot pin therein. The string connection body defining an aperture dimensioned to allow passage of a portion of the attachment portion therethrough. A surface attachment portion having various devices for attaching the surface attachment portion to a surface to be marked. The tip is configured to allow various configurations of the attachment device to be presented and attached to a surface to be marked thus allowing for increased applicability and utility upon a variety of surfaces.

Abstract: An end assembly for a tape rule is disclosed. This end assembly has a hooking member for attachment to a free end of the tape rule. The hooking member includes a plate section, an elbow section, and an abutment section. The plate section is for longitudinal alignment along the free end of the tape rule. The elbow section upwardly curves from the plate section to the abutment section. The abutment section downwardly curves to a substantially perpendicular orientation to the plate section, and the abutment section downwardly extends below the tape rule. The hooking member is positioned to an article to be measured, and the abutment section contacts and frictionally engages an edge of the article.

Abstract: This description, together with the objects of the invention and the various features of novelty which characterize the invention are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed hereto and forming a part of this disclosure. For a better understanding of the invention, its operating advantage is in the specific objects attained by its uses, reference should be had to the accompanying drawings and descriptive matter in which there is illustrated at least one preferred embodiment of the invention.

Abstract: A measuring apparatus includes a housing with a retractable tape, a waveform range finder, and a laser pointer disposed within the housing. The retractable tape includes indicia corresponding to a distance. A save button is further disposed on the housing, wherein upon the depression of the save button, the distance measured by waveform range finder is saved to a memory. A display on the housing indicates the dimension measured by the waveform range finder.

Abstract: A linear measuring device includes a tape housing and a semi-flexible measuring tape housed within the tape housing in a generally spiral configuration with an outer end extendable through a tape outlet opening. An extendable generally flat rear tail is movably mounted on the tape housing generally opposite the tape outlet opening and a generally flat forward tongue is mounted on and extends forwards from the outer end of the measuring tape. Finally, two sets of measurements are displayed on the measuring tape, the outer measurement set displaying the total extended distance of the measuring tape from the outer end to the tape outlet opening and the inner measurement set displaying the total distance from the outer end of the rear tail to the outer end of the forward tongue such that outer and inner measurements are simultaneously displayed on the measuring tape.

Abstract: A guide for assisting in marking a measurement and/or scoring a sheet of drywall, paneling or other planar building material has a bore for receiving a pencil or other marker and has a slot for receiving a scoring blade therethrough. The guide may have a support for maintaining the pencil, marker or a knife having a scoring blade, in a steady relationship with the surface to be scored or marked. The guide may have a curvature or curvatures for cooperating with the pencil, marker or knife. The guide may also have an attaching structure, such as a flange or slot, to attach the guide to a measuring device, including a retractable carpenter's tape, combination square or other rule.

Abstract: A retractable rule assembly includes wear resistant structure formed of a wear resistant material. The wear resistant structure is mounted at each lateral side of a blade opening of the rule assembly's housing to substantially protect the plastics material at the lateral sides from wear by the lateral side edges of the blade. An alternative retractable rule assembly has rollers rotatably mounted at each lateral side of the blade opening.

Abstract: A measurement marking mechanism that can be coupled to a tape measure includes a case and a marker. The marker is coupled to the case and is moveable. When the case is coupled to the tape measure, the marker is moveable relative to the tape measure in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the direction that the measurement tape is extracted from the tape measure, and in a plane that substantially parallel with, or substantially perpendicular to, the plane that the measurement tape is extracted from the tape measure. The marking mechanism may also be formed as part of a tape measure during the manufacturing process.

Abstract: A soft stop-proof hook head of a measure tape is located at one end of the measure tape and comprises a ruler hook. A surface of a ruler hook is enclosed by a soft elastomer. The soft elastomer is made of a flexible material. When the soft elastomer is pressed, it generates an elastic resistance; in measuring, the ruler hook is coupled to a measured bench mark of an object to be measured with a slide-stop effect. Moreover, the soft elastomer is extended with a slide piece for enhancing the slide-stop effect.

Abstract: An apparatus can be conveniently and temporarily attached to a tape measure to aid in measuring a workpiece. The apparatus has a means of engaging a workpiece at one end of a length to be measured, and has a means of removably attaching to the tape measure. The attachment mechanism consists of a rigid, substantially flat member which is designed to rest under the tape, with two tabs protruding upwards from said rigid member. Each tab has at least one kerf formed in the side of that tab which is adjacent to the tape when the rigid member rests under the tape, so that the curving edges of the tape fit into those kerfs, holding the apparatus in place. In this manner, the apparatus is conveniently attachable to and removable from the tape. Furthermore, while the apparatus is attached to the tape, the apparatus adds stability to the tape, by reinforcing the position of the curving edges of the tape.

Abstract: A measuring tape system for determining the girth or length of an object, the measuring tape system including a flexible tape containing specific measuring indicia. One end of the flexible tape is secured to and wound about a drum rotatably mounted within a housing. The drum is spring biased such that it will allow the associated tape to be paid out against the bias of the spring and upon the appropriate command is retrieved and rewound on the drum. The flexible tape is pulled from the housing through an appropriate opening in the wall of the housing and the free end of the tape is selectively placed in a receiver formed in the housing.

Abstract: A holder and guide for a measuring tape and a process of making and using the holder. The holder is made up of a hollow tube having a rectangular cross section. The tube has a slit or gap running the length of the tube to enable a measuring tape to be inserted. A magnet is attached to an exterior portion of the tube. The holder enables a user to insert any portion of a measuring tape inside the tube without having to insert the end of the tape measure therein. The holder facilitates in making measurements using a measuring tape, especially when a long distance is being measured and it is inconvenient to insert an end of the measuring tape through the guide to secure a middle portion of the measuring tape during measurement. The holder also has a magnet that attaches the holder to metallic objects enabling a single user to more easily make measurements using a measuring tape.

Abstract: A tape rule marking implement in which a support member is additionally mounted on the ruler blade output opening at the front end of a tape rule, with a marking implement installed at the corner at one side of its anterior extremity, thereby providing for convenient marking when measurements are taken as well as higher practical value.

Abstract: An improved structure for the endpiece of tape rule, said endpiece comprises a squeeze mechanism and a fixing plate perpendicular to said squeeze mechanism; wherein the rear portion of said fixing plate is riveted with the measuring tape, its front end is formed together with a perpendicular inserting plate, said inserting plate is inserted into a central mounting plate; by using a pivot to connect said inserting plate with a clamping plate in said squeeze mechanism, said squeeze mechanism would be rotated and its position would be changed, such that it is adapted for measuring an object from different positions.

Abstract: A measuring device including a mechanism for measuring such as a tape measure, the mechanism for measuring having a end hook; and a mechanism for selectively securing, such as a magnet, the tape to an object, such as a pipe, the mechanism for selective securing being attached to the end hook of the mechanism for measuring.

Abstract: A tape scriber, formed as an integral device, either molded or cast, includes a base portion, having a cavity formed therein, for accommodating the tab end of the tape. The base portion includes a laterally extending stem, having a slot there through, and into which a box cutter may locate its razor tip, in preparation for cutting of a board during usage. A rearwardly extending member includes an inclined slot, or at least a slot which accommodates a pencil upon an incline with the tip of the pencil extending through a bottom aperture, aligning under the precise end of the tape, to furnish a scribe or pencil mark at that location, as the rule is moved, to the exact dimension measured on its tape during usage.