Abstract: The present invention relates to a tape measure assembly having an internal deployment warning system therein. The device includes a substantially hollow housing having a top wall, a bottom wall, an end wall and a front wall with a horizontal slot between the front wall and the bottom wall. A tape measure having a plurality of marking indicia thereon extends through the horizontal slot and is selectively retractable within and extendable from the housing interior using conventional means currently used in various tape measuring devices. A first magnet is attached to the bottom wall of the housing for securing the housing to a metallic surface. A second magnet is removably attached to the top wall of the housing and has a slit thereon for selectively receiving an L-shaped catch member at a first end of the tape measure.

Abstract: A pre-marked makeready tap for use in setting and regulating the position of webbing in a printing press. The pre-marked makeready tape having a top side defining at least a first mark and a second mark spaced apart a distance equal to a whole multiple page length of printed matter and a bottom side having an activatable, but non-activated adhesive member substantially disposed about the bottom side for securing to the continuous web The adhesive member is selectively activated for attaching an end of the makeready tape to an end of the continuous web on the roll of continuous webbing proximate to the printing unit, and feeding the web through the press for commencement or resumption of the printing process.

Abstract: A height measuring device having an elongated member with a substantially rectangular cross-section. A channel or groove is formed in the middle of the elongated member's wider side and substantially extends the entire length of the elongated member. A metal strip is attached to the inside surface of the groove. The metal strip engages a magnetic plate of a sliding bar which is movably positioned inside the groove and extends out of the elongated member forming a perpendicular angle with respect to the elongated member's surface. The sliding bar is part of a kit of measuring bars or blocks which can be aligned with the scales to measure the height of an individual. The measuring blocks contain magnetic plates attached to its periphery for placement adjacent to the bottom of the groove. The member is made of various materials and is vertically attached to a wall including a measuring tape with an adhesive attached to the member's outside surface.

Abstract: A passive magnetic position sensor, has a substrate with a resistance network arranged on it, and a contact structure which is associated with the resistance network and which can be deflected under the action of a magnet device. An electric connection which is dependent on the position of the magnet device is produced between resistance network and contact structure. In order to provide a position sensor which has a high resolution, operates with a little wear, and is constructively simple to produce, the contact structure is developed as contact-spring structure, and the junction points of the resistance network are connected to contact surfaces also applied on the substrate. The contact-spring structure is arranged at a constant distance from the contact surfaces, the latter entering into contact with the contact-spring structure under the action of the magnet device.

Abstract: A pocket level provided with magnet includes a housing having a sight opening formed therein. A liquid level indicator, in the form of a bubble vial having a pair of closed end walls, is slidably received within the open end portion of the housing and is observable through the sight opening. At least one of the closed end walls of the liquid level indicator is engageable with the housing. A cap is slidably inserted into the open end portion of the housing and a clip which is adapted to hold the level in one's pocket is secured thereto.

Abstract: A magnetic positioner is provided which is capable of providing long travel in two dimension and short travel in the remaining four dimensions. The positioner has a movable stage and a stator oriented adjacent and substantially parallel to this stage. At least three sets of first magnetic elements, which for preferred embodiments are winding sets capable of generating forces in two directions, are on the portion of the stator adjacent to the stage at any given time, and at least two second magnetic elements, which are magnet arrays for the preferred embodiment, are on the stage adjacent to the stator. At least one of the second magnetic elements overlaps multiple first magnetic elements for all positions of the stage relative to the stator, with one magnet overlapping multiple windings for one preferred embodiment of the invention and two magnets on the stage overlapping multiple windings on the stator for a second embodiment.

Abstract: A cutting block alignment mechanism is provided including a mounting assembly adapted to releasably couple to a cutting block of a cutting drum. Next provided is a bracket for releasaby engaging a cutting tool of the cutting block. The bracket is adapted to be selectively lowered and moved laterally with respect to the mounting assembly.

Abstract: A three-dimensional laser levelling and angle-calibrating instrument includes: a stand; a magnetically-attractive laser level having a horizontal bottom attractable on the stand, a vertical wall perpendicular to the horizontal bottom and a first laser illuminator mounted on the laser level for projecting a horizontal laser ray for levelling purpose; and a magnetically-attractive laser angle calibrator having a second laser illuminator and attracted on the vertical wall of the laser level for projecting a vertical laser light line for checking a verticality.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a coordinate measuring apparatus wherein the drives (3, 5, 6) for the measuring sleds of the apparatus are controlled on circularly-shaped paths to machine-control adjust the spatial orientation of the probe pin 9. The probe pin is attached to a passive rotation-pivot joint and has a probe ball which is driven into one of several centering gaps of a body 10. In this way, a separate drive for the rotation-pivot joint 8 is not needed.

Abstract: A coordinate measuring machine (CMM), including three spherical base joints, a device for maintaining the base joints in a fixed spaced relation, and six actuator assemblies each having a variable length. Each of the base joints has a first end of two of the six actuator assemblies connected therewith, respectively. A center pole is provided having a first spherical joint connected to a first end thereof and a second spherical joint connected to a second end thereof. A second end of a first one of each of the two actuator assemblies connected to each of the base joints is connected to the first spherical joint of the center pole, and a second end of a second one of each of the two actuator assemblies connected to each of the base joints is connected to the second spherical joint of the center pole, in a manner which forms a hexahedron.

Abstract: Laser guidance apparatus for providing great accuracy of aiming a bow-and-arrow assembly. The apparatus provides a cam member which provides a double-adjustment feature of the inclination necessary for the proper trajectory of the arrow, taking account of the difference between the aiming inclination for a desired shot trajectory and the non-effect of gravity on the laser beam; and a cam member provides both the adjustment of the inclination to adjust for distance to the target, and for differences in the shooting assembly factors of arrow weight, pulling force, etc.

Abstract: A headlamp position indicator device is used to denote the proper aiming position of a headlamp in an adjustable headlamp assembly. The headlamp assembly includes a housing, a movable component adjustably retained in the housing, and adjustor mechanisms for aiming the movable component. The headlamp position indicator device of the present invention includes a magnet mounted on the movable component and an assembly mounted on the housing. The assembly includes a holder having a cover member mounted thereon and a position indicator mounted therebetween. The cover member has a plurality of indicia thereon. The position indicator may be a ferrous ball bearing or a pointer member. The position indicator is magnetically attracted to the magnet and moveable relative to the housing according to the position of the magnet. Once the headlamp is zeroed, a zero indicia on the cover member is moved so as to be proximate to the position indicator.

Abstract: In an electromagnetic acoustic transducer or EMAT, a spring release mechanism comprises a frame or carriage and, if necessary at least one movement element for permitting movement across a surface of a workpiece. A magnet is movable against the surface past the frame or carriage and a base supports the magnet. The spring is connected between the frame and the base for biasing the base away from the frame to urge the magnet away from the surface.

Abstract: A precision positioning system is provided which provides long travel in two of the linear dimensions, while using non-contact bearings for both a first subassembly which provides long travel in one of the linear dimension and a second subassembly which provides long travel in the second linear dimension. The first or upper subassembly is preferably a magnetic subassembly which, in addition to providing long travel, also compensates or positions in three rotary dimensions and in the third linear dimension. The second subassembly is preferably either an air bearing or magnetic subassembly and is normally used only to provide long travel. Angled surfaces may be provided for magnetic bearings and capacitive or other gap sensing probes may be mounted to the stage and ground flush with the bearing actuators to provide more precise gap measurements.

Abstract: An alternator pulley misalignment gage that allows a worker to determine inboard and outboard alternator pulley misalignment during the manufacture of a vehicle engine. The misalignment gage includes a cylindrical member that is removably secured to an extending arm member so that the cylindrical member can be removed and other cylindrical members can be secured to the arm member for different engine configurations. A measuring device is attached to the arm member opposite to the cylindrical member. The cylindrical member is configured to be magnetically secured to a crankshaft pulley of the vehicle by a plurality of magnets. The measuring device includes a spring biased pointer that is slidably movable relative to the arm member in a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane of the arm member.

Abstract: A multi-purpose measuring instrument for wood working machines including a body having a horizontal side and a vertical side. The edge of the horizontal side is provided with magnets and the vertical side is provided with slide blocks capable of longitudinal sliding movement and being positioned. The slide blocks may be used in measuring the height of the blade of the wood working machine. A circular level set is movably and rotatably provided in the center of the body. The level set consists of inner rings, outer rings and a bubble tube. The outer rings may be turned to a desired degree and angle adjustment of workpieces is achieved by adjusting the rings and the position of the bubble in the bubble tube, providing multiple measuring functions.

Abstract: A carpenter's square is provided which is uniquely configured for use in the construction of a building which utilizes metal framing members. The square is adapted to enable a steel wall stud to be aligned and oriented relative to a steel track to which the stud is to be fastened, and thereafter maintained in proper alignment while the stud is being secured to the track. The square includes a pair of detachable legs. One leg has an inner longitudinal edge formed with a longitudinal recess which extends across the entire width of the edge, such that a gap is created between the leg and a planar surface abutted against the edge of the leg. The longitudinal recess accommodates a portion of the track which extends over the stud, as well as the head of a fastener used to secure the stud to the track. To stabilize and secure the square to the wall stud, at least one of the legs is equipped with a magnetic portion which magnetically adheres the leg to the stud or track.

Abstract: An improved device and system to precisely locate a point on a workpiece. The device and system is also used to precisely position a work tool with respect to the workpiece. The device incorporates a probe end and a contact end. The contact end has a bottom facing contact surface that is smooth and planar within an exacting tolerance. The probe end may be cylindrical or spherical with a precise diameter B and a rear facing portion. The contact end is slideably positioned with its bottom facing contact surface firmly against a reference surface of the workpiece. The device is positioned in order that the rear facing portion of the probe end is firmly in contact with a second surface of the workpiece. The extensions of the plane of the second surface of the workpiece and the plane of the reference surface form an intersection, either real or imaginary. The plane of the second surface forms an angle with the perpendicular to the reference surface plane at the intersection.

Abstract: A multi-functional gauge comprised of a frame, an adjustment seat, a scale and a magnet assembly. The frame includes a chamber for receiving the adjustment seat and the depth rod, and a base extending toward one side of the frame for maintaining the stability of the frame and accommodating the magnet assembly. The adjustment seat includes an indicator plate, a depth rod, a lock screw and a lock knob which are threadedly engaged with each other. The scale is longitudinally secured on the frame, and along the scale the adjustment seat can be set in position or loosened for free movement by the threading engagement of the lock screw and the lock knob. The adjustment seat is provided with at least one window which corresponds to the scale so that the scale can be read therefrom, and a tongue which extends from the wall of the window. The magnet assembly includes a magnet, iron plates and an insertion element.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring scour depth in a waterway bed is described. The apparatus utilizes magnetic attraction between a weight resting on the waterway bed and a magnetic probe within a guide chamber to which the weight is attached. Magnetic attraction between the probe and the weight retains the probe in an aligned position with the weight, enabling a user to detect a reduced force in the support line to identify the location of the weight and thus the riverbed. In a second embodiment, the inventive device includes a second weight slidably attached to the guide enabling a measurement of infill in a waterway bed scour. In the method according to the invention, the weight is placed upon the waterway bed and allowed to rest there. A probe is then inserted into the chamber and allowed to descend to the level of the weight where magnetic attraction supports the probe.

Abstract: The invention concerns a method of locating and repairing dents in motor vehicle panels. The initial step in the method is to locate the dent in the panel. This is done by positioning a magnet and a metal ball on or adjacent to opposite surfaces of the panel so that the magnet and ball attract one another through the panel. The relevant one of the magnet or ball is to the location of the dent on one side of the panel with the result that the other of the magnet or ball moves to the dent on the other side of the panel. The magnet is typically carried by a mechanical pressing tool which can then be used to lever out the dent by working the metal around the dent.

Abstract: A position sensor has an electrically non-conductive substrate with a resistance layer and a conductor track serving as a potentiometer tap arranged parallel thereto, and a second, electrically conductive substrate. At least one substrate is of resilient construction, and at least one of the substrates has a soft-magnetic layer. A magnet is mounted for guidance in the direction of the conductor track, and is located at a constant distance away from the conductive track. The two substrates are spaced apart at a distance allowing contact to be produced under magnetic action. The resistance layer and the conductor track each have structural parts which engage alternately into each other along a path of movement of the magnet.

Abstract: A method is provided for determining the straightness and balance of an archery arrow having a longitudinal axis and a magnetically attractive tip. The method comprises providing a magnet located in an elevated position, suspending the arrow by its tip from the magnet, spinning the suspended arrow about its longitudinal axis, and observing perturbations in movement of the spinning arrow that are indicative of warp or imbalance in the arrow. A device for performing the method of this invention is also provided. The device comprises a support frame having one end configured to be mounted to a wall or the like and another end bearing a magnet from which an arrow can be suspended. Preferably, the magnet is formed with a dimple for receiving and positioning the tip of an arrow for which straightness and balance are to be determined.

Abstract: A label sensor (45) serves to sense or scan a backing strip (14) that is provided with labels (17) thereon, and serves to control a labeling process in a labeling machine. The label sensor has a spring element (80) coupled to a ferromagnetic core (87) provided with a winding (85) thereon. The spring element (80) also is coupled to a surface following member (94) arranged to contact the side of the backing strip (14) carrying the labels (17). In operation, the winding (85) is excited with radio-frequency signal, and the voltage at the winding (85) is evaluated by an electrical evaluation circuit (103). This voltage is a function of whether the surface follower (94) is located on a label (17) or in a gap (20) between two labels, and it may serve to control a labeling machine.

Abstract: A magazine has a plurality of storage ports 400 each of which retains a stylus module 314 for use in measuring workpiece dimensions on a coordinate measuring machine. Each storage port 400 is configured as a pair of jaws provided by docking inserts 414. A permanent magnet 418 is mounted on each docking insert 414. The lower casing of the stylus module 314 is urged against the inwardly facing edges 416 of the docking inserts 414 by the magnetic attraction force due the magnets 418. The stylus module 314 is engaged with a retaining module (on the quill of the machine) by moving the retaining module in a downward sense to engage the stylus module 314; further downward movement disengages the stylus module 314 from the storage port 400, thus enabling engagement of such a stylus module and removal of the module from the storage port in a single continuous movement.

Abstract: A universal guide for an electric drill includes a transparent elongated L-shaped member with two mutually perpendicular faces. Each face has two parallel long edges and two short edges, and they share a common long edge. For each face, one of the two short edges is a perpendicular edge and the other of the two short edges is an angled edge in which the perpendicular edges are perpendicular to the long edges, and the common edge is formed such that the perpendicular edges are mutually adjacent to each other and the angled edges are mutually adjacent to each other. Magnetic areas are formed on surfaces of each of the faces. Level indicators are attached to each face perpendicular to the common long edge and to the common long edge in a direction perpendicular to the perpendicular level indicators. At least one long edge is ruled and guide lines are marked on the faces in a direction parallel to the long edges.

Abstract: An apparatus (1) for the scanning of a profile, e.g. the cross-sectional profile of a train wheel (2,3), comprises a stationary part (11) which supports a first arm (22) and a second arm (23), the ends of said arms being coupled together by means of angle-encoding joints (20,21). One of the arms (23) comprises a free end with a measuring wheel (24) which is arranged to be moved in contact with the profile which is to be scanned.Both of the Joints (20,21) are electronic angle encoders which are coupled to a portable computer via an interface circuit.

Abstract: A drafting board includes a base, a shoulder formed in the perimeter of the upper surface of the base, a magnetic board engaged in the shoulder of the base, two holes formed in the bottom surface of the base, and a rod engaged in each of the holes of the base for elevating the upper edge of the base. The upper edge is located higher than the lower edge and the base is supported by the rods in a sloped fashion.

Abstract: A caliper arrangement includes a first leg member pivotally mounted to a second leg member. The first leg member includes a C-shaped first leg in confronting relationship in a coplanar orientation relative to a C-shaped second leg. The pivot axle pivotally mounting the first leg member and the second leg member has the first leg member including a first leg extension leg formed with an extension leg arcuate plate, with the arcuate plate arranged concentric relative to the axle, with the second leg member including an indicator leg cooperative with the arcuate plate for indication of radial displacement of the first leg relative to the second leg upon measuring of an outer surface of a workpiece. A modification of the invention includes replacement first and second leg members having sleeves having their lower distal ends projecting laterally and exteriorly of the first and second leg members respectively for interior measurement of a workpiece.

Abstract: An apparatus for gauging vehicle damage. The invention comprises a plurality of removable magnetic stop members for placement upon a vehicle and for determining a point of reference. Each of the magnetic stops has an axially extending alignment pole and a calibrated measurement chain attached to the pole for making a measurement from the point of reference. In the method of the present invention a point of reference on an automotive body is determined. Next, a portable magnetic stop is placed on the automotive body at the point of reference. Finally, a calibrated chain is extended from the portable magnetic stop for making an auto body measurement from the point of reference.

Abstract: A hybrid die bonder has the ability to change tool holders to accommodate different die sizes. The single pick up head is selectively, magnetically, connectable to any of a plurality of tool holders. An electromagnet in the head holds a magnetic tool holder and a sealed air line is established therebetween. Prior to pick up, the head and tool holder have the same orientation so that precision locating structure therebetween will cooperate to establish a precise axis for the tool holder.

Abstract: The measuring apparatus consists of a stationary or mobile desk (8) having at least one aligning bar (9) for interaction with at least one of the measuring surfaces (2) of a measuring limb (3) of the sliding gage (7). At least one measuring surface (2) is outside the plane of the graduated straightedge (1), and at least one of the measuring limbs (3) has two limb parts (30) which project in two different directions from the graduated straightedge (1) parallel to the plane of the latter, and whose two measuring surfaces (2) are in a plane perpendicular to the graduated straightedge (1). Means for detachably fixing the aligning bar (9) and/or the object to be measured on the desk (8) may be provided. Preferably, both measuring limbs (3A, B) are displaceable on the graduated straightedge (1), and at least one of the two can be fixed.

Abstract: A scanning head (12) for a surface measuring machine has a probe tip (30), which is supported by a probe tip support lever (18) so that it can be deflected perpendicularly to the reference surface (82). Incorporated between the probe tip (30) and a rigid section of the probe tip support lever (18) is a force sensor (34), whereof the output signal serves as an actual value of a control circuit (56 to 60), which controls a magnetic servo motor (44, 46), which exerts a variable additional force, to be added to the force of a tension spring (42), on the probe tip support lever (18), the whole so that the contact pressure of the probe tip (30) is kept constant irrespective of the surface contour.

Abstract: A laser compass projects a laser beam along an axis. A mirror is rotated within a rotation plane perpendicular to the axis. The mirror is pivotally adjusted relative to the axis of the laser beam to reflect the laser beam at an angle ".alpha.". As the mirror rotates, the reflected laser beam is swept through an inverted cone having an apex at the point of intersection of the laser beam with the mirror, and having a base on whatever projection surface happens to be located above the laser compass (typically, a ceiling). The base of the cone defines a perfect circle on the projection surface. The radius "r" of the circle is governed by the distance "d" between the projection surface and the intersection of the laser beam with the mirror; and, by the angle .alpha.. The mirror pivot angle .alpha. required to yield a circle of desired radius "r" is given by the formula:tan .alpha.

Abstract: A guide post and/or master cylinder squareness gage has a vee-block for attaching the gage to a guide post or master cylinder. The vee-block includes a gage stop which bears against the plane surface when the gage is attached to the guide post or master cylinder. The vee-block also includes a measurement indicator mounted to the vee-block which indicator has a biased contact which also bears against the plane surface at a position spaced from the stop. The indicator indicates the deviation in the perpendicularly of the guide post as the gage is rotated around the guide post. The flatness of the plane surface can be measured by rotating the gage attached to the master cylinder on the plane surface. The perpendicularity of the master cylinder can be measured by rotating the master cylinder with the gage held in one position.

Abstract: An apparatus, of a compact pocket-sized design, for the description of accurate ellipses of an infinite number of conjugate and transverse diameters on flat and/or irregular surfaces, such as spherical or horizontal and vertical cylindrical tanks, having two identical, independent focal-point holders, a non-elastic inter-connecting cord and a variety of inter-changeable mounting bases to allow the mounting of the focal-point holders on soft, porous, non-porous, textured and metallic surfaces.

Abstract: Disclosed is a measurement system magnetic coupler. The system comprises reader head apparatus for establishing a measurement related to the location of a physical structure moveable along a predetermined path. The system also includes a magnet for coupling the reader head apparatus to the physical structure by magnetic attraction between the magnet, the reader head apparatus, and the physical structure.

Abstract: A drafting apparatus comprising a drawing board having at least two opposite, parallel sides, and arcuate guide means, detachably coupled to the at least two opposite, parallel sides, for guiding a straight edge along a radial path during formation of radiating perspective lines.

Abstract: A corner locator for aligning machine tools comprises a metal sphere with a section removed. The section has the shape of either a right angled corner, which is bounded by three mutually perpendicular planes, or a wedge bounded by two intersecting planes. The three-plane version in use fits onto a corner of a rectangular workpiece, and the two-plane version in use fits onto an edge. In either case all planes bounding the removed sections pass through the exact center of the sphere. With the locator in place, the spindle of the machine tool may be set at any angle whatsoever relative to the faces of the workpiece, and the machine tool spindle axis aligned to pass through the center of the sphere as follows: insert a dial indicator gauge into the spindle; bring the gauge arm into contact with the sphere; rotate the spindle while moving the spindle along the machine axes to locate the point of minimum runout. At this point the spindle axis points directly toward the center.

Abstract: An apparatus for the positional adjustment of cutting tools for use on machine tools has a first block having a gauging surface mounted thereon and translationally and swivelly movable on a perpendicular shaft. A second block is coupled to the first block in such a manner that the two blocks move together translationally with the first block being free to swivel relative to the second block. The second block carries indicating means for indicating the amount of translational movement of the two blocks.

Abstract: A plotting and drafting apparatus comprises a drawing implement having a body, a rule portion and a device for connecting the rule portion to the body. The body has a first surface and a first generating device for generating a first series of juxtaposed parallel linear magnetic poles in the first surface. The poles of the first series extend linearly in a first direction of parallelism with adjacent poles being spaced apart laterally from each other in a first direction normal to the first direction of parallelism. The rule portion has a datum edge disposed at an angle relative to the first direction of parallelism. The apparatus further includes a supporting device having a second surface for supporting the drawing implement and has a second generating device for generating a second series of juxtaposed parallel linear magnetic poles in the second surface.

Abstract: For a horizontal orientation of a switching-type probe head, force developing device is provided to compensate for a component (F.sub.1) of the gravitational weight vector (F.sub.g) of the deflectably movable part (11) of the probe head, the compensating force being perpendicular to the direction of loading the movable part (11) into its at-rest (undeflected) null position in the probe head. This force-developing device is illustratively a magnetic bearing (5, 6) which is operative without involving any added mechanically contacting action within the probe head.

Abstract: These magnetic stencil letters enable a small child to learn to write his name, etc. quickly. Primarily, the letters are packaged as a set, and are magnetic, so as to adhere to a steel panel on top of a piece of paper, which is to be stenciled with letters forming the child's name and words.

Abstract: A magnetic alignment fixture to temporarily hold a door latch striker in position relative to a door jamb while the alignment of the doors is adjusted. The magnetic alignment fixture includes a base plate of flexible material having an aperture for receiving and positioning the striker. The base plate magnetically holds the striker on the door jamb. The base plate may be moved by sufficient force applied against the striker in the plane parallel to the door jamb to overcome the magnetic force holding the base plate and thereby adjusts the position of the striker. The flexibility of the base plate allows the base plate to be flexibly peeled away from the door jam and the striker in a direction perpendicular to the door jamb after the striker is secured to the door jamb.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining the extent of damage to a vehicle body prior to its repair includes first and second means to be coupled with the vehicle body for holding a first string in spaced relationship to the body. First string means is coupled with the first and second string holding means and drawn taut. Third and fourth means adapted to be coupled with the vehicle body on the opposite side from the location of the first and second means is adapted to hold a second string in spaced relationship to the vehicle body. A second string means is drawn taut between the third and fourth holding means. Comparative measurements are then taken between the first string and the undamaged area of the vehicle body which corresponds to the damaged area on the opposite area. Second measurements are taken between the second string and the damaged area of the vehicle body and compared with the first measurements. The amount of damage to the body can then be determined by this comparison.

Abstract: An apparatus for measuring lengths, having a housing 10 which has a contact plane 20 as well as sensor pin 16 which is arranged and displaceable perpendicular thereto and is connected to an indicator instrument 28; the housing 10 having a single support foot 12 for the universal use of the instrument, the bottom of said support foot lying in the contact plane 20.

Abstract: Drawing boards and drawing instruments for use therewith. The surface of the board (1) has a set of parallel-running, evenly spaced magnetic poles (2) across it. Each drawing instrument has a cylinder (10) with similar parallel magnetic poles running essentially axially along it. The cylinder is freely rotatably mounted (12) and preferably held a little bit away from the board surface. The cylinder (10) preferentially orientates with its magnetic poles aligned with those (2) on the board surface. This orientation can be accurately maintained across the entire surface of the board without the use of cumbersome mechanical arrangements to ensure alignment of drawing instruments. When not required for use, the drawing instrument may simply be removed from the surface of the board. A ruler/protractor device (3) and a carriage bearing a pair of rules set at right angles are described.

Abstract: A convenient method and simple apparatus for cutting one or more layers of planar material, such as fabric into uniform, geometric shapes, involving the use of relatively small, thin geometrically shaped magnetic templates. The method and apparatus is particularly useful in preparing fabric pieces to be sewn together in order to produce a patchwork quilt.

Abstract: An instrument used to level equipment, particularly useful with exercise equipment like a barbell. In preferred form, the instrument includes a tapered tube filled with a liquid and having a ball therein indicating level. The tube is supported and is magnetically coupled to a metal surface such as the barbell. The use of the leveling instrument with a barbell facilitates weight training in that the bar may be maintained level and the muscles on each side of the body developed equally.

Abstract: Disclosed is a capacitive measurement system. The system comprises structure for generating a plurality of waveforms, a calibrated reference member for use with a reader head in making a measurement, and a reader element configured for lateral movement with respect to the calibrated reference member. The calibrated reference member comprises one element of a capacitor. The reader element comprises a plurality of reader regions comprising the other element of the capacitor. The reader element also includes structure for receiving two signals resulting from coupling of the two capacitor elements. The system functions to detect a phase shift level between the two signals and to determine magnitude of lateral movement in a particular direction from the magnitude of the phase shift.