U.S. patent application number 11/580575 was filed with the patent office on 2008-04-17 for measuring device.
Invention is credited to Eugene Troy Peterson.
Application Number | 20080086903 11/580575 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39311536 |
Filed Date | 2008-04-17 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080086903 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Peterson; Eugene Troy |
April 17, 2008 |
MEASURING DEVICE
Abstract
A hand held measuring device for measuring for construction or
other industries using measuring tapes to ascertain measurements.
The device features an extendable tape engaged to an electronic
sensor communicating the measurement to a data processor and
digital display. Software operating on the data processor stores
and employs the taken measurements to estimate time and materials
for a given industry. The software may be changed by engaging a
memory card with industry specific software adapted to employ the
measurements taken for calculations. A camera will take digital
photos of measured areas and store them in association with
individual measurements. A second video display provides a software
driven graphic interface for display and input of data.
Inventors: |
Peterson; Eugene Troy;
(Chula Vista, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
DONN K. HARMS;PATENT & TRADEMARK LAW CENTER
SUITE 100, 12702 VIA CORTINA
DEL MAR
CA
92014
US
|
Family ID: |
39311536 |
Appl. No.: |
11/580575 |
Filed: |
October 12, 2006 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
33/760 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G01B 3/1069 20200101;
G01B 3/1084 20130101; G01B 3/1094 20200101; G01B 3/1061
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
33/760 |
International
Class: |
G01B 3/10 20060101
G01B003/10 |
Claims
1. A hand held measuring device for measuring by a user comprising:
a housing having an exterior surface and an interior cavity; a
flexible tape having a top surface and bottom surface; said tape
engaged to a winding mechanism in said interior cavity; said tape
extendable from said interior cavity through an aperture in an end
surface of said housing, for a measurement distance; said
measurement distance being a distance between a distal end of said
tape and a point of reference on said housing; data processing
means and electronic memory positioned in said housing; a first
video display viewable on said exterior surface of said housing in
operative electronic communicating with said data processing means;
means for determination of said measurement distance and subsequent
communication of said measurement distance electronically, to said
data processor; said first display communicating with said data
processor to digitally display said measurement distance thereon;
software operable with said data processor for determining
incremental measurements from an individual said measurement
distance upon a user signal; a first input signaling means
electronically engaged with said data processor, said first input
button activateable to provide a first user signal; a second input
signaling means electronically engaged with said data processor
said second input button activateable to provide a second user
signal; a third input signaling means electronically engaged with
said data processor said third input button activateable to provide
a third user signal; means to indicate a final user signal; said
software operable to ascertain a final measurement notation, upon
indication of said final input; said final measurement notation
being one of, the sum of the plurality of individual of said
measurement distances, or a product of the multiplication of
individual of said measurement distances; a battery for electric
power operatively engaged to said measuring device; and said
software storing each said final measurement notation in memory for
employment in a final calculation, whereby one or a plurality of
said final measurement notations are stored in electronic memory
for use in ascertaining said final calculation to accomplish a task
and for display on said video display.
2. The measuring device of claim 1 additionally comprising: said
final measurement notation being a two dimensional area when
determined by said final user signal, subsequent to a first said
user signal and a second said user signal; and said final
measurement notation being a volume measurement when determined by
said final user signal, subsequent to a first said user signal and
a second said user signal and a third said user signal.
3. The measuring device of claim 1 additionally comprising:
industry specific software operable on said data processor; said
industry specific software having a database of materials employed
in a construction trade; and said industry specific software
adapted to make said calculation for said construction trade using
one or a plurality of said final measurement notations, to
ascertain an industry specific calculation of one or both of
materials and labor required for said task.
4. The measuring device of claim 2 additionally comprising:
industry specific software operable on said data processor; said
industry specific software having a database of materials employed
in a construction trade; said industry specific software adapted to
make said calculation for said construction trade using one or a
plurality of said final measurement notations, to ascertain an
industry specific calculation of one or both of materials and labor
required for said task; said calculation being ascertainable for
area of said materials for each said final measurement notations if
said final measurement notation is said two dimensional area; and
said calculation being ascertainable for volume of each said final
measurement notations if said final measurement notation is said
volume measurement.
5. The measuring device of claim 1 additionally comprising: a
digital camera engaged to a digital camera lens operably positioned
on said housing; means to activate said camera to take a
photograph; and electronic memory to store each said
photograph.
6. The measuring device of claim 5 additionally comprising: said
software operable to store each said photograph associated with an
individual said measurement or a final said measurement.
7. The measuring device of claim 3 additionally comprising: a
digital camera engaged to a digital camera lens operably positioned
on said housing; means to activate said camera to take a
photograph; electronic memory to store each said photograph; said
software operable to cue said user to take said photograph and
thereafter store said photograph in association with an individual
said measurement or a final said measurement.
8. The measuring device of claim 5 additionally comprising: said
digital camera lens positioned on said end surface of said housing,
from which said tape is extendable; and said digital camera lens
having a raised position on said end surface yielding a downward
camera angle of view toward said distal end of said tape.
9. The measuring device of claim 6 additionally comprising: said
digital camera lens positioned on said end surface of said housing
from which said tape is extendable; and said digital camera lens
having a raised position on said end surface yielding a downward
camera angle of view toward said distal end of said tape.
10. The measuring device of claim 3 additionally comprising: a
plurality of programs of said industry specific software, each for
a said specific industry employing said measuring device to obtain
measurements; each of said plurality of programs, stored on a
removably memory card; a receiving socket for said memory card
communicating with an exterior of said housing; and said measuring
devise being customizable to any of said plurality of industries
employing said measuring device to obtain said measurements, for a
calculation of time or materials, whereby said measuring device may
be changed to operate with any of said programs of industry
specific software, by changing to a different of said memory cards
having a different said industry specific software stored
thereon.
11. The measuring device of claim 4 additionally comprising: a
plurality of programs of said industry specific software, each for
a said specific industry employing said measuring device to obtain
measurements; each of said plurality of programs, stored on a
removably memory card; a receiving socket for said memory card
communicating with an exterior of said housing; and said measuring
device being customizable to any of said plurality of industries
employing said measuring device to obtain said measurements, for a
calculation of time or materials, whereby said measuring device may
be changed to operate with any of said programs of industry
specific software, by changing to a different of said memory cards
having a different said industry specific software stored
thereon.
12. The measuring device of claim 3 additionally comprising: said
aperture being adjacent to a bottom surface of said housing; said
first video display positioned on a top surface opposite said
bottom surface of said housing; a second video display on a side
surface of said housing; said second video display in operative
electronic communication with said data processor; and said
software operating on said data processor producing visual displays
of said final measurements and said final calculations on said
second video display.
13. The measuring device of claim 4 additionally comprising: said
aperture being adjacent to a bottom surface of said housing; said
first video display positioned on a top surface opposite said
bottom surface of said housing; a second video display on a side
surface of said housing; said second video display in operative
electronic communication with said data processor; and said
software operating on said data processor producing visual displays
of said final measurements and said final calculations on said
second video display.
14. The measuring device of claim 5 additionally comprising: said
aperture being adjacent to a bottom surface of said housing; said
first video display positioned on a top surface opposite said
bottom surface of said housing; a second video display on a side
surface of said housing; said second video display in operative
electronic communication with said data processor; and said
software operating on said data processor producing visual displays
of said final measurements and said final calculations on said
second video display; and said second video display providing means
to display each said photograph.
15. The measuring device of claim 6 additionally comprising: said
aperture being adjacent to a bottom surface of said housing; said
first video display positioned on a top surface opposite said
bottom surface of said housing; a second video display on a side
surface of said housing; said second video display in operative
electronic communication with said data processor; and said
software operating on said data processor producing visual displays
of said final measurements and said final calculations on said
second video display; and said second video display providing means
to display each said photograph.
16. The measuring device of claim 7 additionally comprising: said
aperture being adjacent to a bottom surface of said housing; said
first video display positioned on a top surface opposite said
bottom surface of said housing; a second video display on a side
surface of said housing; said second video display in operative
electronic communication with said data processor; and said
software operating on said data processor producing visual displays
of said final measurements and said final calculations on said
second video display; and said second video display providing means
to display each said photograph.
17. The measuring device of claim 8 additionally comprising: said
aperture being adjacent to a bottom surface of said housing; said
first video display positioned on a top surface opposite said
bottom surface of said housing; a second video display on a side
surface of said housing; said second video display in operative
electronic communication with said data processor; and said
software operating on said data processor producing visual displays
of said final measurements and said final calculations on said
second video display; and said second video display providing means
to display each said photograph.
18. The measuring device of claim 9 additionally comprising: said
aperture being adjacent to a bottom surface of said housing; said
first video display positioned on a top surface located opposite
said bottom surface of said housing; a second video display on a
side surface of said housing; said second video display in
operative electronic communication with said data processor; and
said software operating on said data processor producing visual
displays of said final measurements and said final calculations on
said second video display; and said second video display providing
means to display each said photograph.
19. The measuring device of claim 3 additionally comprising: a
digital camera engaged to a digital camera lens operably positioned
on said housing; means to activate said camera to take a
photograph; electronic memory to store each said photograph; and
said industry specific software operable to store each said
photograph associated with an individual said measurement or a
final said measurement.
20. The measuring device of claim 19 additionally comprising: said
industry specific software being specific to the painting industry;
and said industry specific software storing each said phonograph as
a record of a color associated with said individual said
measurement or a said final measurement.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This invention deals with the instruments for measuring
dimensions. More particularly, the disclosed device relates to
measuring tapes used for everyday measuring for construction,
manufacturing, estimation, and the like. Using a unique coupling of
electronics and mechanical components, the disclosed measuring
device eliminates the need to transfer measurements visually
accessed from a tape to paper or other storage media. It also
eliminates the errors frequently encountered when figures must be
taken visually and transposed to written form. In modes of the
device with additional capabilities, actual calculations for
differing construction, recording, estimating, and manufacturing
requirements may be provided by the device. Still further, the
device may be linked to a computer network for transfer of stored
measurements to a remote location for use enhancing delivery times
for everything from remodeling to home appraisals.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Tape measures are commonly used throughout the world in
numerous trades and by professionals and amateurs alike.
Carpenters, mechanics, construction workers, architects, designers,
painters, real estate estimators, textile manufacturers, and
workers in many other professions as well as do-it-yourselfers
employ tape measures on a regular basis. Mechanical tape measures
conventionally extend a tape of metal, plastic or fabric from a
wound position inside a casing, to an extended position a distance
from the edge of the casing. Because of their compact size and
concurrent ability to measure distances many times the size of the
casing in which they are wound, tape measures are an indispensable
tool for their users.
[0003] When a tape measure is employed by an amateur or
professional, there is generally a need to record each measurement
taken to calculate some type of requirement, or to build or
manufacture some type of component to occupy the space measured. A
vexing problem which frequently arises is the high possibility of
error in transcribing the measurements viewed by the user onto
paper. Busy professionals are frequently interrupted while taking
complex measurements for custom installations, retrofit, or
repairs. Consequently, it is all too easy for such a user to view
the measurement printed on the tape, and either forget to write it
down, or to write it down incorrectly. Incorrect transcription can
also happen if the user has poor eyesight, or dyslexia, or for a
myriad of other reasons. The same errors occur more often with
do-it-yourself users and amateurs.
[0004] Further, even with the correct measurements, tape measure
users who transcribe the measurements viewed on the tape onto paper
still must use those measurements for calculation of the ultimate
reason for the measurements. For example, drywall installers must
at some point buy the correct amount of drywall for the measured
areas and then cut the drywall to the sizes measured. Painters must
measure the area of wall surfaces to be painted, ascertain how many
coats of paint are required, and then purchase sufficient paint in
gallons to cover the total aggregate surface area measured. Another
example would be carpenters or wall framers who must measure the
length, width, and height of areas for designated walls. All the
measurements must be transcribed to paper or some other means for
recording them, whereafter the amount of wood and nails required
for the job will have to be determined. Building codes and other
issues can affect this total of materials needed. A multitude of
other jobs and products depend upon accurate measurements using a
tape measure and accurate transcription of each measurement to a
record and subsequent accurate calculation from the recorded
measurements of the products to purchase or custom components to
manufacture using the recorded measurements.
[0005] As can be ascertained, this process is fraught with peril
for the amateur and infrequent user of the tape measure and is
overly time-consuming and poses the risk of mental and
transcription errors when employed by the professional. Further,
with no real template or means for orderly calculation of the
different trades and tasks for which the measurements are taken,
many hours can be lost in making the ultimate products, and much
waste can occur with improperly purchased or manufactured products
using improperly recorded or calculated measurements.
[0006] U.S. Pat. No. 5,230,159 (Lipsey) teaches a device with a
calculator releasably attached to a conventional tape measure.
However, Lipsey simply provides a calculator in the proximity of
the tape to the user and offers no organized means of recording
measurements that are trade-specific or which are stored for use in
relation to each other and the trade for later custom
fabrication.
[0007] U.S. Pat. No. 5,426,863 (Biggel) teaches a combined tape
measure and calculator and employs equally spaced holes along the
length of its tape to ascertain an electronic reading. The holes
are read by a number of closely spaced optical readers arranged to
generate incremental unit signals for a microprocessor. Individual
or sequential measurements can be taken; however, Biggel offers
onboard means for an orderly recording of related measurements and
total aggregate measurements. Neither does Biggle provide any means
to change the tape to provide calculations and measurement storage
in a manner conventional to individual trades like carpentry or
drywall and the like.
[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 5,161,313 (Rijlaarsadam) discloses a wheeled
measuring and calculating instrument for the determination of
lengths, areas, peripheries and volumes. However, this device too
lacks any onboard storage of data in a manner that allows logical
relation of measurements to each other, and in a trade-specific
format that provides for both calculation of materials, and storage
of related measurements for use to cut or build components to
size.
[0009] Other combinations of measuring instruments with simple
calculators are taught as well as numerous manners for electronic,
magnetic, and optical reading of the tape extension to an
electronic display and calculator. However, such devices provide no
means to adapt the measuring device to the trade for which it is
being used and to provide means to store the measurements in a
relational form for later use, nor any industry specific
calculation ability that aids individual professional and amateur
users with error free and accurate calculations and renditions of
the measurements.
[0010] Consequently, none of these previous efforts in the art
provide the benefits attendant with the present invention. The
present invention achieves its intended purposes, objects and
advantages over the prior art devices through a new, useful and
unobvious combination of method steps and component elements, with
the use of a minimum number of functioning parts, at a reasonable
cost to manufacture and by employing readily available
materials.
[0011] As such, there exists a need for a tape measure that will
provide indicia on the tape itself for a visual read of the
measurement and concurrently provide an electronic means of display
and recording of each measurement taken. Such a device should allow
for easy recording and storage of each measurement, with no need to
use a paper or pencil or write down the viewed measurement. Such a
device should not only record each measurement, but do so in
relation to the other measurements taken for each item
measured.
[0012] Additionally, such a device should allow for on-site
calculation of material required for the trade for which the
measurements are taken, using the input measurements. The
calculations made by the device should be adaptable to any trade
for which the device is used. For example, carpenters should be
able to use the device to record measurements and calculate wood
requirements or to form structures from wood based on the
measurements. Drywall installers should be able to take the
measurements, store them, calculate materials to be used, and print
lists of drywall dimensions to cut from the material. Or, a home
appraiser or carpet installer should be able to record measurements
by room and later use them for calculations as to size of the home
or carpet needed.
[0013] Ideally then, the device should employ a basic component
that provides a mechanically extending tape that provides visual
means to ascertain a measurement, and using one or a plurality of
input buttons to record an electronic rendition of each measurement
without having to write or transcribe the measurement viewed.
Preferably, this recording of measurements should be accomplished
without taking the user's hand off the measuring tape. Further, the
device should have a user adaptable or configurable data processing
capability that allows for calculations for materials and/or custom
dimensions of components to be formed, which relate to the trade
for which the measurements are taken. This data processing ability
should ideally be adapted to accept one or a plurality of
programming packages in the base unit, each of which are adapted to
the trade for which the measurements are being taken. Preferably
such programming packages that are executed on the data processor
of the device will supply templates for orderly means for recording
of the measurements as they are taken and as they relate to each
other and the trade. Ideally, the software programming would
provide a simple graphic interface for the measurements during
their taking and for calculations as to materials required and
depictions of components to be cut. Finally, it would be especially
useful for many users if a camera were included and engaged to the
data processor to associate a photograph with one or a plurality of
measurement sets to provide the user with a visual reference to the
location of the measurements.
[0014] In this respect, before explaining at least one embodiment
of the invention in detail it is to be understood that the
invention is not limited in its application to the details of
construction and to the arrangement of the components set forth in
the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The
invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced
and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that
the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose
of description and should not be regarded as limiting.
[0015] As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the
conception upon which this disclosure is based may readily be
utilized as a basis for designing of other structures, methods and
systems for carrying out the several purposes of the present
invention. It is important, therefore, that the claims be regarded
as including such equivalent construction insofar as they do not
depart from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0016] It is a general object of this invention to provide a tape
measure device that has an eye-readable display on an extendable
measuring tape, and concurrently provides an identical electronic
rendition of the measurements taken to a data processing
device.
[0017] It is a further general object of the invention to supply
such a device that eliminates the need to remove the user's hand
from the device to record measurements.
[0018] Another object of this invention is to eliminate the need to
read the measured distance on the extended tape and record it in
writing and thereby also alleviate errors in transcription that
inevitably occur.
[0019] Yet another object of this invention is to supply such a
combination measuring and data processing device that allows for
user engageable software that renders the device and its
measurements trade-specific.
[0020] Another object of this invention is to supply such a device
with both measurement and onboard data processing that provides a
user interface for storage of measurements as they relate to each
other and calculations that are industry or trade-specific as to
materials, time, and other industry-specific data that can be
ascertained from measurements taken.
[0021] Yet a further object of this invention is the provision of a
base device of measuring tape and coupled data processor that may
be engaged to memory components that both house industry-specific
software as an interface and allows for storage of measurements
taken on removable memory media for transport to other computing
devices.
[0022] An additional object of this invention is the provision of
such a measuring tape and data processor combination that may be
linked to a network using radio or optical communications to a node
allowing real time or on-demand transmission of measurements to a
remote location.
[0023] Yet another object of this invention is providing a
measuring tape and data processor combination that will provide an
interface to store and depict graphic depictions on a device
mounted, or remote visual display, of measurements taken which
relate to thereby provide a visual cue for a piece of material to
be cut to the shape rendered.
[0024] The foregoing has outlined some of the more pertinent
objects of the invention. These objects should be construed to be
merely illustrative of some of the more prominent features and
applications of the intended invention. Many other beneficial
results can be attained by applying the disclosed invention in a
different manner or by modifying the invention within the scope of
the disclosure. Accordingly, other objects and a fuller
understanding of the invention may be had by referring to the
summary of the invention and the detailed description of the
preferred embodiment in addition to the scope of the invention
defined by the claims taken in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0025] The device herein disclosed and described provides an
improved measuring device which eliminates errors in transcription
thereby increasing accuracy. The device features an exterior
housing sized to accommodate an extendable tape in an interior
cavity. The tape is biased to wind into the housing through an
opening as is conventional with tape measures.
[0026] Also operatively positioned on the housing is an
alphanumeric keypad for user input to an internal data processor. A
number of function keys for signaling to the processor an input of
width, length, and height are provided which are placed on the same
side as the opening for the tape to allow the user to hold the
device while signaling an input instead of having to put it down or
rotate it. A video display preferably of an LCD type is provided on
a side surface for use with a preferable graphic interface provided
by onboard or loadable software. Also provided in the preferred
mode is an electronic measurement display on a top surface easily
viewed while holding the tape for a measurement and which can be
either an LCD or LED or similar low power display. This measurement
display is an electronic version of the measurement taken with the
tape and can be used to both verify that the tape and the
electronic measurement are the same, or, in place of reading the
tape where user eyesight may be lacking or the light poor for
reading.
[0027] In a simple mode of the device an onboard data processor
with requisite ROM and/or Ram memory is placed in operative
electronic engagement with the input pad, the video display, the
number display, and some means for concurrent electronic
determination of the measurement taken by the tape when extended
for a measurement. Many such means for electronic tape measurement
are available, including magnetic and optical types and any
electronic measuring component as would occur to those skilled in
the art is anticipated.
[0028] During every measurement taken with the tape by a user, the
data processor would communicate that measurement to the numeral
display for easy reading and validation with the tape if desired.
The current measurement may also be depicted on the video display,
and depending on the graphic interface and software, it can be used
or stored in a manner that it relates to other appropriate
measurements taken. The photos would be thus associated by the
software with one or a plurality of measurements taken.
[0029] The device in the simplest yet novel form can be employed to
make and store two and three dimensional measurements without the
need to transcribe them to paper or other physical or electronic
media by hand. However, in the most preferred mode, one base model
of the device would be sold that would have the functions of
measurement and photograph and digital storage of the measurements,
but would be customizable to a given trade to which it is being
employed. Software adapted to provide a graphic interface and to
store and associate measurements and digital photos in a manner
organized to the trade would be provided. Carpenters can purchase
the base model and upgrade its capability to their individual trade
by adding a memory chip or other means of programming that will
provide the data processor industry specific data, interfaces, and
data storage and retrieval routines that can be employed in
combination with the measurements stored for making even more
accurate calculations about time and materials required. The
software would provide graphic interfaces on the display that would
be organized to the trade, store measurements in a fashion that
would be organized to the trade, and have a lookup table and
libraries of stored information specific to the trade. In the case
of a carpenter, measurements taken could immediately be converted
into a bill of materials needed using the onboard data as to how
much lumber and nails would be required to frame the walls just
measured.
[0030] In use by a painter, the base device would be purchased and
the painting software and data chip added and engaged into the
device. The painting specific software would use the stored
measurements taken to calculate wall surfaces for painting by a
painter. Screens would be organized toward input and display of
painter information. As in all the specialized versions with
specialized software, buttons adjacent to the video display would
assume new and trade specific operations which would be associated
with the buttons and operate the software and graphic interface on
the visual display providing menus that are industry specific to
painting.
[0031] In the case of painting, the software, of course, would be
adapted to calculate time and/or material for the painting job
measured based on the sum of individual and aggregate total of all
the final measurement notations held in memory. Included would be
software routines for the painting trade to ascertain the gallons
of paint required to cover the total area determined by the sum of
the final measurement notations which were the two dimensional wall
surface areas ascertained as the sum of the length and width of
each wall measured. Also using the measurements taken, other
materials and/or labor can be easily calculated with no
transcription of the taken measurements using a library of industry
specific calculation related to the area of measurements taken and
stored in the device. The software can even break down the job
measured into individual areas and store them as individual
sub-jobs, since painting one job site may involve many different
colors and textures in many different rooms.
[0032] Of course software can be provided for every type of
industry which uses two and three dimensional measurements to
ascertain the job requirements and thereafter calculate the time
and materials to be used based on the industry standards for such.
All would work using the base device and adding or reprogramming it
to work with that specific industry easily. If software on a remote
computer is to be employed using the data of measurements, it would
be stored in an appropriate format and communicated electronically
to another computer either by wireless or wired communication. Or
the data may be stored physically in proper format for the intended
calculating software on a removable chip memory which can then be
engaged with the remote computer.
[0033] Finally, in an especially preferred mode of the device, a
digital camera would also be provided. The camera would allow the
user to photograph each area measured, and using onboard or loaded
software, associate it with the measurements taken. This would be
especially helpful in highly customized areas of construction where
the surface or material being custom cut is done so at a place
remote to the actual installation site. In combination with the
electronic measurements and graphic depictions available of the two
dimensional areas measured, a photograph when associated
electronically with specific measurements can help alleviate errors
and can provide much needed visual aids to the fabrication
personnel who may not be able to visualize the job at hand using
the two dimensional stored measurements on the device.
[0034] With respect to the above description then, it is to be
realized that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts
of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape,
form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are
deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and
all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings
and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed
by the present invention. Therefore, the foregoing is considered as
illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further,
since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to
those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention
to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and
accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be
resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0035] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and
form a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the
invention and together with the description serve to explain the
principles of this invention.
[0036] FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of the device showing a
first side surface having an alphanumeric input communicating with
an onboard data processor and video display for a graphic
interface.
[0037] FIG. 2 depicts a perspective view of the device showing a
top electronic measurement display and engageable electronic memory
component having onboard industry specific software and/or storage
and transport of obtained measurements along with a camera adapted
to photograph along the line of measurement.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0038] Referring now to the drawings 1-2, wherein similar parts of
the invention are identified by like reference numerals, there is
seen in FIG. 1 a perspective view of the disclosed device 10
showing the housing 12 which houses the extendable tape 14. Also
engaged to the housing is an alphanumeric input pad 16 a plurality
of function keys for width 18, length 20, and height 22 input
designation, a video display 24, and an electronic measurement
display 26 which can be either an LCD or LED or similar electronic
means for display will provide a user-readable display of the
electronic rendition of the measurement taken with the tape 14. Of
course the device will function with a single electronic video
display 24 producing the graphic displays of both the video display
24 and the measurement display 26. However, both displays make the
device easier to use if the measurement display is on a top surface
and easy to view while measuring. This user-readable display 26 can
be used to both verify that the tape and the electronic measurement
are the same, or, in place of reading the tape for persons with eye
trouble, the display 26 may be backlit or use larger fonts than the
tape 14 making it easier to read. A battery 15 would power the
device 10.
[0039] In the simplest form of the device 10, the onboard data
processor and memory 28 would be in operative electronic engagement
with the input pad 16, the video display 24, the numeral display
26, and electronic means 15 for determination of the measurement or
extension of the tape 14. Many such electronic means for electronic
determination of the extension of the tape 14, from the housing 10
to the distal end 17 of the tape 14 are well known to those skilled
in the art. For instance, once such system features an elongated
conductor strip 19 constructed of a magnetic material that is
attached longitudinally into a recess in the tape 14. An electronic
reading component 23 adjacent to the tape 14 actuates a signal
magnetically relative to the position of extension of the tape 14.
Or the device can employ one or a combination of magnetic means for
reading tape extension such as an embedded magnetic strip 19 within
a longitudinal recess of the tape 14, a mechanical means which
measures the tape 14 as it extends, measuring the length of tape
and which converts the length to an electronic signal, or an
optical means for determining the tape measurement such as indicia
21 in the form of dots 31, a bar code, a three dimensional bar
code, or other indica on the tape surface and an optical electronic
reader 23 or other optical electronic means to read that indicia 21
placed adjacent to the opening 30, or holes 31 punched through the
tape 14 which may be counted by the electronic sensor 33, engaged
adjacent to the opening 30, which would count the holes as they
traverse the reader, or any other means for determination of a
measurement distance of the tape 14 from its distal end 17 to the
measurement point on the housing 12 or other frame of reference
used, and converting that distance to an electronic signal and
communicating that electronic version of the distance,
electronically to a data processor 28.
[0040] The data processor 28 would be operatively electronically
engaged to the employed means for electronic measurement
determination of the measurement taken by the tape 14 and would
concurrently communicate that measurement for viewing on the
measurement display 26 and/or the video display 24 such that a
digital rendition of the measurement taken by the tape 14 would be
viewable to the eyes of the user each time a measurement is
taken.
[0041] Also provided in the preferred mode of the device, the
buttons for width input 18, length input 20, and height input 22
are placed on the side surface of the housing 12 such that they may
be easily depressed by the thumb of the user without having to take
their hand off the housing 12. This is most desirable because of
the ease of use this placement provides in combination with the
electronic measurement display 26.
[0042] In use, in the simplest form the user would extend the tape
14, view the digital measurement on the display 26, and if
determined to be correct, press one of the three buttons for
length, width, or height, which will cause the measurement to be
stored in the computer memory of the device.
[0043] As noted earlier, the device 10 will have a data processor
and memory 28 onboard and software in the base model. This will
allow for the taking of simple measurements as to length, width,
height, and storage of a final stored measurement notation,
depending on the actions of the user. It is these stored final
measurement notations which act as a common unit of measurement for
a plurality of trades and uses that will allow the device to
provide great utility to the user, depending on the software loaded
into the processor.
[0044] In use, a taking of a first measurement for length by
extending the tape 14 and pressing of the length button 20, causes
storage for that measurement in one of three ways as a final
measurement notation, depending on the second action by the user.
If the save button 40 is pressed after the first measurement, the
device will save the measurement as a separate distinct final
measurement notation which may be recalled later from one or a
plurality of such notations acquired during a session of use.
However, if the user, instead of pressing the save button 40 takes
a second measurement and presses the width button 18, the device
will automatically assume that at least an area measurement is
desirable and that a graphic depiction of the two dimensional area
may also be desirable and will hold the two measurements in memory
awaiting a final action by the user. If the user at this point
takes a third measurement and presses the height button 22,
software on the device will automatically assume that the common
unit of measurement is volume and will multiply the three
measurements and store them in a final measurement notation of
volume. If, however, after the second measurement is taken the user
simply presses the store button 40 again, the software on the
device will cause the device 10 to assume the common unit of
measurement is an area, and the device will immediately store a
final measurement notation of the area.
[0045] All of the individual final measurement notations stored in
memory may be offloaded as an electronic file on an engageable
memory card 35 for use on a computer or other electronic component
having software adapted to employ the final measurement notations
stored for production or planning of a project. Or, the device may
be equipped with electronic means for transmission 37 of stored
data such as an Infrared or Bluetooth transmitter which can
communicated the data to the appropriate receiving device or over a
network to a receiving computer or device as needed.
[0046] This ability to offload the data stored manually on the
memory card 35 allows for easy transport of information of each
job. When communicated electronically using the transmission means
37 to a network, the device 10 will allow a workman in the field to
take measurements, and in real time or soon after finished,
transmit the measurements to the factory or their office for use,
all without using paper and a pencil. This not only speeds up the
final production of whatever is being measured, it also eliminates
the most likely place for errors which is transcription by the user
from a viewing of the measurement to paper.
[0047] In the most preferred mode of the device 10, the base model
with the aforementioned onboard input routines and data processor
28 to determine the common unit of measurement and store all final
measurement notations, can be customized to the trade to which it
is being employed. This customization can be done by the provision
of software on the memory card 35 or over electronic transmission
means 37 that will provide the device 10 with software for
industry-specific measurements and optionally, with a graphic
interface for input of measurements. Further, the industry-specific
software will enable the device 10 onboard ability to make
calculations for materials and time for the trade for which it is
programed using the final measurement notations taken and stored by
the device 10. Such software would also optionally enable specific
functions to programable input buttons 39 adjacent to the display
which thereafter would be useable to input a specific input
programmed to that button 39.
[0048] For instance, if the device 10 is being used to measure wall
surfaces for painting by a painter, the memory card 35 would be
preprogramed with software and optionally graphic interfaces for
the visual display 24 that are adapted for painting. This would
include calculations for materials and/or labor times based on the
sum of all the final measurement notations held in memory. Using
the software routines for the painting trade and stored data as to
volume of paint required for the total area determined by the sum
of all the final measurement notations, and labor times for
application of such, the device may be employed on the job site to
measure the areas to be painted, and then easily calculate the
amount of paint and/or time required for the job.
[0049] In a simpler version the software would store the individual
final measurement notations and provide the user with a final input
signaling means to convey to the device 10 that all measurements
are complete. The final input signaling means can be pressing any
designated key on the keypad 16 or even the save button 40. Once
completion is ascertained, the software using all the stored final
measurement notations would then, from an onboard database of paint
and coverage ability, calculate the material needed for the job.
The measurement information can be stored by rooms by using a
graphic display input provided by the software on the visual
display. Further, the data stored can be communicated
electronically to another computer either by storing it in proper
format on the chip 35 for transport, or broadcasting it over the
means for electronic transmission 37 to a computer or over a
network to a server or computer.
[0050] When used for measuring by the carpet industry, the same
procedure would be followed. The device 10 would be programmed with
carpet industry-specific software by insertion of a programed chip
35 by transmission over the electronic transmission means 37. The
device 10, once programed, would follow the same mode of operation
allowing the user to input the individual measurements to ascertain
each final measurement notation to be stored. Once the user
activates the final input signaling means, the device 10 using
stored data as to carpet would calculate the total amount of carpet
needed for the job and/or the amount of time for the installation.
As carpet is a two-dimensional industry (as is drywall, flooring
and many other construction trades) with the software appropriately
configured in the preferred mode, all of the individual final
measurement notations, stored in two dimensions, would be
reproducible graphically on the video display 24 or on a computer
to which the data is communicated as a two dimensional drawing of
the area measured. This would aid the user or other associated
workers to use the drawings of the measured areas to pre-cut the
individual carpets (or drywall, or flooring etc.) for each room or
area measured. If the device communicates using electronic means of
transmission 37, the total and individual final measurement
notations for each area can be transmitted over a network or other
electronic transmission means back to the factory in real time or
once the user is finished. Again, as in the previous explanation of
operation, no transcription by hand of measurements is needed, and
the user can actually use the device 10 to both measure and then
immediately calculate the amounts of materials needed, time for
installation, and total costs for the job with the industry
specific software.
[0051] Of course, the device 10 using the base unit with minimal
software and data processing provides great utility over
conventional tape measures. However, as noted, the device can be
custom programed to any industry from carpentry, drywall, plumbing,
painting, carpeting, flooring and just about any industry where two
or three dimensional measurements are converted to provide products
and services.
[0052] Finally, an especially preferred component in all modes of
the device 10 from the simple base model with onboard general
programming to the customized model with industry specific
programming loaded is a digital camera 45. As noted earlier, trades
which require highly customized fabrication such as countertop
construction, drywall installation, flooring and the like, can
benefit from a photograph that is associated with a measured area.
Using the camera 45 which is in a software and electronic
engagement with the data processor and memory, the user can
photograph areas measured which might be of concern or just to have
later on for review. A painting oriented software could store the
photo for color reference. In use, during individual measurements,
or once a final measurement signal is input, the user would
activate the camera by depressing a camera activation button 47 to
photograph the desired area.
[0053] The onboard software would be adapted to automatically
associate the photograph taken with the previously measured area.
Or, with the camera 45 lens viewing the same area being measured by
the tape 14 and down the same path from a declining angle toward
the tape 14, the user could photograph the area being measured
during one or all measurements, and automatically associate the
digital photo held in memory with the stored measurement.
[0054] Pointing the camera 45 downward along the same path as the
extended tape allows the photo to be taken and stored without
having to change the hold or angle of the device during use and in
a particularly preferred mode of the device, the camera 45 would
aim in at a slight downward angle and in that direction. Or, the
camera 45 may be rotatably engaged to vary the angle so as to allow
the user to photograph the area for each measurement and store it
associated with that measurement using the software adapted to the
purpose. Still further, use of the camera 45 to store a digital
image which would be associated with the measurement taken provides
a means for visual reproduction of the measured area at a
subsequent time and remote place. This would be most helpful when
trying to match color, shape, fabric, or other aesthetic factors of
the job being measured and matching them using a color digital
photo of the area measured for a reference.
[0055] The tape measure and data processor with digital photo
association shown in the drawings and described in detail herein
disclose arrangements of elements of particular construction and
configuration for illustrating preferred embodiments of structure
and method of operation of the present invention. It is to be
understood, however, that elements of different construction and
configuration and other arrangements thereof, other than those
illustrated and described, may be employed for providing the device
and system in accordance with the spirit of this invention, and
such changes, alternations and modifications as would occur to
those skilled in the art are considered to be within the scope of
this invention as broadly defined in the appended claims.
[0056] Further, the purpose of the foregoing abstract is to enable
the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally, and
especially the scientists, engineers and practitioners in the art
who are not familiar with patent or legal terms or phraseology, to
determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and essence
of the technical disclosure of the application. The abstract is
neither intended to define the invention of the application, which
is measured by the claims, nor is it intended to be limiting as to
the scope of the invention in any way.
* * * * *