Tape
Measures Have Always Offered Fast, Accurate
Measurements
Tape
measures were invented because Arthur J. Fellows
saw the need for a fast, accurate way to measure
the distance between two points. The tape measure
was much more convenient that a bulky ruler,
yardstick or meter stick. It was one of the
best measuring
tools and could easily be put
into a pocket, pouch or tool kit, was lightweight
and easy to carry. It was also accurate.
Today’s
measuring instruments have changed dramatically
since that day in 1868 when Mr. Fellows invented
his first tape measure. Using technologies
unimaginable 136 years ago, todays tools use
computer chips, lasers and digital electronics
to measure and record distances and dimensions.
These instruments are employing the most recent
electronic, digital and laser technologies.
Digital
Tape Measures Make Measuring Even More Accurate
Mr.
Fellows’ tape measure was a significant
improvement of the measuring sticks of his day.
But they had several drawbacks. First, it is
unhandy for one person to use a tape measure
if the distance is further than arm’s length.
It can be done, but it is much easier with two,
one to hold the end of the tape at one end of
the distance being measured and the other to
stretch the tape to the other end. Second, it
is easy to misread the tape. The distances on
the tape are broken down into feet and inches
and fractions of an inch by hashmarks. If the
measurements are off an eighth of an inch here
and a sixteenth there, before long the pieces
of the project being built may not fit together
snugly. Digital tape measures are much easier.
You simply point them at the end of the distance
being measured and push a button. This ’point
and shoot’ feature makes it easy for one
person to operate the tape. The digital display
on the tape gives an accurate reading to the
fraction. These tools will also remember previous
measurements and calculate area.
Retractable tape measures are not ready to disappear
just yet. They still have their use. And, they
are being upgraded. Some retractable tape measures
come as combination tools that include laser
levels and digital displays showing the distance
being measured.
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