Patent Publication Number: US-9903696-B2

Title: Measurement devices and methods

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/331,264, filed May 3, 2016, entitled “MEASUREMENT DEVICES AND METHODS,” the disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. The Field of the Invention 
     The invention relates to measurement devices, e.g., tape measures as used by those engaged in carpentry work. 
     2. The Relevant Technology 
     Tape measures have been available for decades, and have changed little over the past few decades. One problem frequently encountered by anyone familiar with use of a tape measure is the necessity of remembering and/or communicating the value of a measured length. For example, a person often will measure a given space in a first location, and then will need to remember the particular value of that measurement (or tell it to an assistant), as they go to a second location to measure and then cut or mark a board or other object or material, or otherwise compare or use the length value just measured. For example, one may typically take the measured value from the first location, and then use that value to mark, cut, or otherwise employ the remembered value with a board or other material to be employed in construction at the first location. Under such circumstances, it is easy to forget or misremember what the value of the measurement was, or to have that value miscommunicated to an assistant. Such problems lead to wasted materials and effort. Also, for those who don&#39;t use a tape measure often, there is difficulty in understanding the markings that are typically found on the tape, especially when the measured length falls between two lines of marking. 
     Another commonly encountered situation occurs when measuring an inside dimension (e.g., distance inside a cabinet, or similar inside dimension). When using a tape measure to measure such an inside dimension, the housing of the tape measure itself is in the way, which becomes problematic. Current tape measures require the user to bend the tape, so that the tape extends the full inside dimension, and to read the bent tape (which can be difficult to do accurately), or to extend the tape and the housing across the full inside dimension being measured, to then read the value on the tape at the front end of the housing, and then add a given value to the read measurement to account for the length of the housing itself. For example, if the drawn out distance of the tape is 22 and ⅜ inches, the housing will often include a notation indicating to the user how much to add to the measured value to account for the length of the housing. While for some tape measures this adjustment is a whole number (e.g., 2 inches or 3 inches), sometimes it is a fractional number (e.g. 2 and ¾ inches), making it very inconvenient for the user trying to determine the accurate inside dimension. Furthermore, the housing itself of the tape measure is typically not formed of straight edges, but includes bowed, rounded, and textured exterior surfaces, which introduces additional inaccuracy to such measurements. 
     It will be apparent that under such circumstances, it is easy for a user of existing tape measures to make a mistake in measurement (e.g., by not understanding the markings), to make a mistake in communicating the measured value to an assistant, to make a mistake in remembering the measured value, or even if the measurement is made more or less correctly, its value may be inaccurate (e.g., particularly for measured inside dimensions). 
     BRIEF SUMMARY 
     The first named inventor conceived of the present invention while building playhouses, where numerous cuts of identical length were required for boards to be used in construction of the play house. In using a tape measure to take the proper measurement, the measurement was remembered or communicated incorrectly, so that several boards were cut at the incorrect length, resulting in frustration and waste. In at least some embodiments, the present invention provides a device that allows a user (e.g., a professional carpenter, cabinet maker, do-it-yourselfer, or anyone using a tape measure) to take a measurement using a tape measure without requiring reference to measurement indicia that may be provided on the tape. Because no reference to such indicia is needed, the user is much less likely to make a mistake. 
     In an embodiment, the present invention is directed to a device that includes or is attachable to a tape measure, for use therewith. The device may include a base member, and a housing supported on the base member that includes a slot for slidably receiving a tape of the tape measure so that the tape can be inserted through the slot of the housing. An elastomeric gripping layer may be positioned in the housing, positioned to contact a face (e.g., bottom) of the tape when the tape is locked in a given position during use. A movable pressure locking wedge may be provided, positioned within the housing so that the tape is pinchable between the pressure locking wedge and another surface without damaging the tape. In some embodiments, that other surface is the elastomeric gripping layer. A handle may be operable to move the pressure locking wedge, which allows the user to move the wedge (e.g., rotate it, or move it vertically downward), selectively locking the tape between the pressure locking wedge and the other surface upon actuation of the handle. In an embodiment, the handle is attached to the pressure locking wedge. In another embodiment, the handle may not necessarily be directly attached to the pressure locking wedge, but movement of the handle operates to move the wedge, as will be explained in further detail herein. 
     Another embodiment is directed to a device attached or attachable to a tape measure, including a base member, a housing supported on the base member including a slot for slidably receiving a tape of the tape measure insertable through the slot of the housing, and an elastomeric gripping layer positioned at the bottom of the slot of the housing over which the tape slides during use. A movable (e.g., rotatable, or downward slidable) pressure locking wedge may be positioned within the housing so that the tape is positioned between the wedge and the elastomeric gripping layer during use. In another embodiment, the elastomeric gripping layer may be disposed on the movable pressure locking wedge, so that pinching of the tape occurs between the elastomeric gripping layer and another surface (e.g., a stationary wedge). Various examples of such embodiments will be described in further detail below. A handle may be operable to move the pressure locking wedge, which allows the user to move the wedge, allowing locking of the tape between the pressure locking wedge and whatever surface is opposite the movable wedge (e.g., the elastomeric gripping layer, or another surface such as a stationary wedge). 
     Providing an elastomeric gripping layer that contacts the tape, so as to be involved in the pinching of the tape in some way, provides very tight locking of the tape, making it very difficult for a user to intentionally or inadvertently pull or push the tape in (which would undesirably shorten or lengthen the locked distance associated with the particular locked position). For example, those of skill in the art will appreciate that many existing tape measures include a lock built into the tape measure, which helps to hold the tape at a given extension. While this is so, the lock provided by such existing structures is not particularly tight, so that a user may intentionally or inadvertently cause the tape to retract or be further extended by pushing or pulling the tape with a relatively small force. Such a pushing or pulling force will be insufficient to cause the locking structures described herein to retract or extend the tape. For example, the present inventors have found that a 5 lb weight can be attached to the tape, and with the handle in the locked position, it remains locked. Further, it will be appreciated that the locking structures described herein may be provided in addition to the traditional lock provided with state of the art tape measures. In other embodiments, the presently described locking mechanism may replace the typical lock provided with a tape measure (e.g., where the device is incorporated into, or built-in to a tape measure). 
     The present invention also extends to methods of use, which allow a user to take a measurement, e.g., between first and second points, without requiring the tape to include measurement indicia, as the method does not require reference to such indicia that are typically included on a tape measure. Indeed, in an embodiment of a device that is “built-in” to a tape measure, the tape may not necessarily include such indicia. Such a method may include extending one end (e.g., a leading edge) of a tape to the first point, while aligning a straight edge of the device (e.g., referred to as a locking device) that locks to the tape with the second point, so as to define the measurement as between the end of the tape and the straight edge of the locking device. With the locking device locked to the tape, the tape may then be moved to a board or other object or material to be cut, marked, compared, or otherwise used with the measurement. For example, the leading end of the tape may be positioned at one end of the board or other object or material, and the straight edge of the locking device is then positioned at a point at which the board or other material is to be cut or marked, compared, or the like. If the board or other material is to be cut or marked with the measurement, the user may then cut or mark the board or other material at the straight edge, so as to translate the measurement taken from between the first and second points to the board or other material, without requiring reference to any measurement indicia that may be on the tape. It will be apparent that such a locking device and tape measure can similarly be used in any other use typically employed for a tape measure (e.g., other than measurement comparisons, marking, or cutting). 
     While described as performed in the context of a tape, it will be appreciated that the term tape is to be construed broadly, and as no indicia are required on the tape, a string, cord, filament or other high tensile strength line may alternatively be employed. Similarly, telescoping rods or other members could take the place of a traditional “tape”, being extended from the first point to the second point, providing a similar result. Such alternate structures are thus to be construed as within the scope of the term “tape” as employed herein. Of course, a typical, flat (or concavely curved) elongate thin ½ inch, ¾ inch, 1 inch wide or other dimensioned traditional tape could be employed. 
     These and other advantages and features of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the invention as set forth hereinafter. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       In order that the manner in which the above-recited and other advantages and objects of the invention are obtained, a more particular description of the invention briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof which are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are not therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of an exemplary device that is shown attached to a tape of a tape measure, according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 2  is a cross-sectional view through the device of  FIG. 1 , showing how the tape of a tape measure may be received through the tape receiving slot of the device, with the tape freely slidable along its length through the slot. 
         FIG. 3  is a cross-sectional view similar to that of  FIG. 2 , but in which the handle connected to the pressure-locking wedge has been rotated downward, pinching the tape within the device, so as to hold the device to the tape in a given position. 
         FIG. 4A  shows the tape measure and device of  FIGS. 1-3  being used to measure and then pinch or clamp the tape at a desired “outside” dimension (e.g., show measuring a desk width). 
         FIG. 4B  shows the tape measure and device of  FIGS. 1-3  being used to pinch or clamp the tape at a desired “inside” dimension (e.g., shown measuring the inside dimension of picture frame, although this could also be done with the inside of a cabinet or other inside dimension). 
         FIG. 4C  shows the tape measure and device of  FIG. 4B , with the device locked in place, moved to a board being marked (e.g., for cutting) at the appropriate measured dimension. 
         FIG. 5  shows another exemplary device, attached (e.g., permanently or removably fixed) to a tape measure, where the housing of the device is separate from the tape measure. 
         FIG. 5A  shows a cross-sectional view through the device of  FIG. 5 , showing how actuation of the handle can selectively pinch the tape between the pressure locking wedge and the elastomeric layer in the housing of the device. 
         FIG. 6A  shows another exemplary device, integrated into a tape measure, with the housing of the device also housing the tape of the tape measure, with the movable pressure locking wedge of the device in an unlocked position. 
         FIG. 6B  shows the device of  FIG. 6A , with the leading edge of the tape of the tape measure extended out from the housing to a desired length, and the movable pressure locking wedge of the device in a locked position. 
         FIG. 7A  shows another exemplary device, similar to that of  FIG. 6 , also where a housing of the device houses the tape of the tape measure, with the movable pressure locking wedge in an unlocked position. 
         FIG. 7B  shows the device of  FIG. 7A , with the leading edge of the tape of the tape measure extended out from the housing to a desired length, and the movable pressure locking wedge of the device in a locked position. 
         FIG. 7C  shows a transverse cross-section through the device of  FIG. 7B . 
         FIG. 8A  is similar to  FIG. 4A , but shown using the device of  FIGS. 7A-7C  to measure the desk length or width. 
         FIG. 8B  is similar to  FIG. 5B , but shown using the device of  FIGS. 7A-7C  to measure the inside dimension of the picture frame. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF DISCLOSED EMBODIMENTS 
     I. Introduction 
     Embodiments of the disclosure relate to devices and methods that allow a user to take a measurement (e.g., using a tape), and then take that measurement to another location where a board or other material is to be cut, marked, compared, or the like with the measurement. According to one such embodiment, a device that is attachable to, or included with a tape measure may include a base member, a housing supported on the base member including a slot for slidably receiving a tape of the tape measure insertable through the slot of the housing, and an elastomeric gripping layer positioned in the housing, positioned to contact a face of the tape when the tape is locked in a given position during use. A movable pressure locking wedge may be positioned within the housing, which assists in locking the tape in the desired given position as the tape is pinched between the pressure locking wedge and another surface (e.g., the elastomeric gripping layer, or another surface). A handle may be operable to selectively move the pressure locking wedge, so as to allow selective locking of the tape between the wedge and another surface upon actuation of the handle. 
     An exemplary method may employ a device as described above, so as to provide the ability for a user to take a measurement, e.g., between first and second points, without requiring that the user reference any measurement indicia that are typically present on a tape. The method may allow a user to easily measure inside or outside dimensions, without having to remember any measured values, and without having to add a length associated with the length of a tape measure housing when measuring an inside dimension. Such a method may include extending one end (a leading edge) of a tape to a first point, while aligning a straight edge of the locking device with the second point, so that the measured length is defined between the end of the tape (the leading edge of the tape at the first point) and the straight edge of the locking device. When the end of the tape and the straight edge are thus aligned with the first and second points, the locking device is locked to the tape, locking the given measurement into the device and tape, so that it is “remembered” or recalled as the device and tape are moved to another location where the information of that measurement can be used. 
     For example, in this locked condition, the tape and locking device may be moved from the measurement location (where the first and second points are) to a board, or other material to be cut, marked, or compared with the given measurement length. It will be apparent that such a method allows the board or other material to be cut or marked using the locked in distance measurement without requiring the user to reference any of the measurement indicia (e.g., inches, fractions of inches, centimeters, fractions of centimeters, etc.) that may be present on the tape measure. 
     II. Exemplary Measurement Devices and Methods 
       FIGS. 1-3  illustrate an exemplary device  100  according to one embodiment of the present invention that may be attached to, or used with a tape measure  108   b . For example, device  100  is shown as including a base member  102 , with a housing  104  supported on base member  102 . Housing  104  is shown as including a slot  106  that allows a tape  108  of tape measure  108   b  to be received into the slot  106  of housing  104 . An elastomeric gripping layer  110  may be positioned in housing  104  to contact a face (e.g., a back face) of the tape  108  when the tape is locked in a given position during use. In the illustrated embodiment of  FIGS. 1-3 , elastomeric gripping layer  110  is shown disposed on the base member  102 , inside housing  104 . Additional or other placements are possible, e.g.,  FIGS. 6A-6B  shows the elastomeric gripping layer positioned elsewhere (e.g., on the movable pressure locking wedge). Layer  110  may be planar (e.g., with tape  108  being concavely and convexly curved). In another embodiment, layer  110  may be concavely curved to better mate with the bottom face of tape  108 , which is typically convexly curved. 
     Device  100  is further shown as including a movable pressure locking wedge  112  within the interior of housing  104 . Wedge  112  is movable, e.g., rotatable or movable downward, so as to pinch the tape  108  between layer  110  (or another surface) and wedge  112 . In the illustrated example, a handle  114  is shown operable to move wedge  112 , allowing selective locking of the tape  108  between wedge  112  and layer  110  upon actuation of handle  114 . In  FIG. 1 , handle  114  is directly connected to wedge  112 . In other embodiments (e.g., see  FIGS. 7A-7B ), connection of handle  114  to wedge  112  is not required for the handle to be operable to move wedge  112 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 2-3 , in the illustrated configuration, wedge  112  includes a concavely curved outer surface  116   a , as well as a flattened or reduced surface  116   b . With the handle  114  in an unlocked position (e.g., upward, not yet rotated downward, as seen in  FIG. 2 ), there is a gap  117  between housing  104  (e.g., roof  104   a  of housing  104 ) and internally disposed wedge  112  (particularly flattened surface  116   b ). Upon rotation of handle  114  downward to its locking position, the outer surface  116  of wedge  112  rotates, eventually striking roof  104   a  of housing  104 . For example, such striking may occur at or near where the regular convex curvature  116   a  of outer surface  116  resumes (i.e., where surfaces  116   a  and  116   b  meet). 
     By flattened or reduced surface  116   b , it is meant that the exterior surface is reduced as compared to what it would be if the regular (e.g., constant radius) exterior surface of a convex curvature such as at  116   a  were simply continued over portion  116   b . In some embodiments, this could be achieved by defining a wedge that would have a cylindrical shape (circular convex cross-section), and by simply removing portions of said shape to create flattened or reduced surface  116   b , e.g., as shown in  FIGS. 2 and 3 . By flattened surface  116   b , it is not required that the surface actually be flat or planar. Rather, it may simply be reduced as shown, to create a gap  117 , which gap can be closed upon rotation of wedge  112  to cause the unreduced surface or portion  116   a  to strike housing  104 , closing gap  117 . 
     Those of skill in the art will appreciate that other shaped outer surfaces (various non-circular surfaces) may similarly be rotated to alternate from providing a gap such as gap  117 , to providing engagement, and force application between housing  104  (or another structure), pressing wedge  112  into towards layer  110 , so as to pinch tape  108  therebetween. Thus, it will be appreciated that the illustrated embodiment is merely exemplary. The illustrated engagement effectively removes gap  117  that previously existed between roof  104   a  of housing  104  and wedge  112 , so that if tape  108  is in slot  106 , it becomes pinched between layer  110  and wedge  112 , as shown in  FIG. 3 . The arrow in  FIG. 3  shows how such pinching force is applied upon actuation of handle  114  to pinch tape  108 . 
     When a gap  117  is present (see  FIG. 2 ) the tape  108  is not pinched, but is free to slide within slot  106  (into and out of the page in  FIG. 2 ), as some clearance is present between wedge  112 , between housing  104  and elastomeric gripping layer  110 . This allows the user to slide the tape  108  to a desired extension, e.g., positioning a first end of the tape at a first end of a dimension being measured. In this slidable configuration, the tape  108  may even be removed from under housing  104 , through slot  106 , as will be apparent from  FIG. 1 . Still referring to  FIG. 1 , in the unlocked, configuration where tape  108  is slidable in device  100 , the straight edge  118   a  or  118   b  of base member  102  may be advanced to the opposite end of the dimension being measured (with the tape  108  sliding through slot  106  as this occurs). When the first end (leading end  108   a ) of the tape  108  is positioned at the first end of the dimension being measured, and one of straight edges  118   a  or  118   b  is at the second end of the dimension being measured, the handle  114  is actuated, locking device  100  to tape  108 . In this locked configuration, the tape  108  and device  100  includes the desired dimension defined between the first end  108   a  of the locked tape and the straight edge  118   a  or  118   b.    
     How such a measurement may be made and locked into the device  100  and tape  108  is shown in  FIGS. 4A and 4B . For example,  FIG. 4A  shows the leading end  108   a  of tape  108  positioned at one end of an object or distance to be measured (e.g., the width of a desk or tabletop  120  in  FIG. 4A ), with straight edge  118   a  being aligned with the other end of the object or distance being measured. It will be appreciated that in use, instead of aligning the end of object or distance  120  with edge  118   a , edge  118   b  could alternately be used. With the alignment provided as desired, handle  114  is moved to the locked position, locking the tape  108  to device  100  at the desired distance along tape  108 . It will be apparent that in this locked configuration, the tape  108  and device  100  includes the desired length incorporated, or “locked” therein, so as to allow the user to then move tape  108  and device  100  (e.g., to a board or other object or space) for the measured length to be transferred thereto. Such moving and transference of the measurement does not require the user to use or otherwise reference any measurement indicia that may typically be present on a tape measure, as the dimension is defined between leading end  108   a  and the selected straight edge  118   a , or  118   b.    
     In an embodiment, only one straight edge ( 118   a  or  118   b ) may be provided, to reduce any risk that a user may forget which edge was selected. For example, the other edge could be made wavy, curved, or any other non-orthogonal shape, so as to provide only one “straight edge” for reference. 
       FIG. 4B  shows similar use as in  FIG. 4A , but showing how the device  100  and tape  108  may be used in measuring an inside dimension, such as the illustrated interior dimension of a picture frame. Other inside dimensions, such as that of a cupboard, doorway, or cabinet may of course be measured, and “locked” or “remembered” by the tape  108  with device  100  locked thereto.  FIG. 4B  shows the leading end  108   a  of tape  108  positioned at one end of the inside dimension to be measured, with straight edge  118   b  being aligned with the other end of the inside dimension being measured. With the alignment provided as desired, handle  114  is moved to the locked position, locking the tape  108  to device  100  at the desired distance along tape  108 . 
     It will be apparent that in this locked configuration, the tape  108  and device  100  includes the desired length incorporated therein, locked in place, so as to allow the user to then move tape  108  and device  100  (e.g., to a board or other object or space) for the measured length to be transferred thereto. Such moving and transference of the measurement does not require the user to use or otherwise reference any measurement indicia that may typically be present on a tape  108 , as the dimension is defined between leading end  108   a  and the selected straight edge  118   b . By way of example,  FIG. 4C  shows how device  100  with tape  108  locked in the same relationship as in  FIG. 4B , has been moved from the inside dimension measuring environment, to a board or other object to which the measurement is to be transferred to. As shown, the leading edge  108   a  of tape  108  may be aligned with an end of board  124  (or elsewhere on board  124 , as desired), and marked along straight edge  118   b , effectively translating the measured inside dimension from  FIG. 4B , to the board of  FIG. 4C . All such movement and marking may be accomplished with the device  100  remaining locked to tape  108 , as described herein (e.g., by rotating handle  114  to the locked position). 
     It will be apparent that the device  100  as shown as described in conjunction with  FIGS. 1-4C  may be separate from the typical tape measure device  108   b  into which tape  108  may be spooled. Device  100  may thus be separate, but attachable to, tape measure  108   b . In other embodiments, the device may be permanently (i.e., fixedly) attached to a tape measure  108   b , as seen in  FIG. 5 , or with the device and tape measure otherwise incorporated together (see  FIGS. 6A-7C ). 
     The housing and other components of the device may be formed from any suitable materials. In an embodiment, one or more of the housing, handle, base member, and wedge may comprise any of various durable plastic materials, such as acrylic or similar strength plastics. Other materials, such as aluminum, anodized aluminum, aluminum alloys, and the like may also be used. For the elastomeric gripping layer, any suitable elastomeric material may be used, e.g., rubber materials, latex, silicone, thermoplastic elastomers, thermoset elastomers, and the like may be suitable for use. Such materials provide gripping characteristics, and resist the tape sliding thereover, particularly when pinched against such an elastomeric layer. 
       FIG. 5  shows a device  200  providing similar advantages as device  100 , but which is provided attached (e.g., permanently fixed, or removably attached) to a tape measure device  108   b . Device  200  includes a base member  202  on which is supported the tape measure device  108   b  at one end, and housing  204  at the other end. Housing  204  includes a slot  206  that slidably receives tape  108  of tape measure  108   b , so as to be slidably extended through slot  206 . Leading edge  108   a  (e.g., as well as a thickened riveted portion  108   c  of tape  108 ) may remain outside of housing  204  and slot  206 . A movable pressure locking wedge  212  may be provided in a similar manner as described in conjunction with device  100 , with a handle  214  for selectively locking wedge  212  downward, pressing tape  108  to lock it in a desired extension out of tape measure  108   b.    
     While a conventional tape measure lock  214 ′ is shown with tape measure  108 , those of skill in the art will appreciate that although such tape measures are provided with such a mechanism to lock an extension of the tape  108 , such existing locking mechanisms are not particularly reliable, so that even if the lock  214 ′ is “locked”, the tape  108  can be pushed in or pulled out of tape measure  108  with application of minimal force. Where a tape measure  108  is provided with the present inventive device that includes its own locking mechanism in the movable pressure locking wedge, it will be appreciated that no such lock  214 ′ need be provided with the tape measure  108   b . For example, this may be particularly so where the tape measure  108   b  is provided with the inventive device, either permanently fixed to, or removably attachable to, the tape measure  108   b . Thus, the inventive devices may be used with a tape measure that includes, or does not include, such a conventional lock  214 ′ 
     As described above, the wedge  212  within housing  204  serves to pinch tape  108  between wedge  212  and another surface, such as elastomeric gripping layer  210 . As explained in conjunction with  FIGS. 2 and 3 , and also shown in  FIG. 5A , handle  214  may be connected to wedge  212 , or otherwise operable to move wedge  212 , allowing selective locking of tape  108  between wedge  212  and layer  210  or another surface under tape  108  (e.g., and in housing  204 ) upon downward rotation or other actuation of handle  214 . 
     In the embodiment seen in  FIGS. 5 and 5A , it will be seen that slot  206  is somewhat differently configured relative to slot  106  of device  106 . For example, in slot  106  of device  100 , the slot is open on three of the four sides of the illustrated housing  104 , which allows the tape  108  to be completely removed from the slot  106 , housing  104 , and device  100 . In device  200 , slot  206  is shown as closed on two opposite sides, and being open at the other two opposite sides of housing  204 , so that tape  108  is fed through an open side of housing  204  between base  202  and housing rear wall  204   b , and then extending through housing  204  to exit at slot  206  between housing front wall  204   c  and base  202 . In the illustrated embodiment, housing  204  may include a joint between itself and base  202 , e.g., to be attached thereto during mechanical assembly by the manufacturer. For example, such may allow tape  108  to be enclosed within housing  204 , as shown. 
     This configuration provides an embodiment in which tape  108  is not readily removable from housing  204  of device  200 , but can simply be reeled into or out of tape measure  108   b , through housing  204 . By way of example, if no leading edge  108   a  or riveted section  108   c  were present (e.g., if the leading end of the tape  108  were the same thickness as the rest of tape, or at least thin enough to fit through slot  206  of housing  204 ), it may be possible to disconnect tape  108  from device  200 , although with the illustrated leading edge and/or rivets, the attachment is permanent as a practical matter. By permanent, it is meant that the tape  108  is not removable from the device without disassembling or breaking the device or tape. 
     In addition, base member  202  is differently configured as compared to base member  102  of device  100 . For example, base member  102  is shown as extending with a longitudinal axis that is orthogonal (e.g., 90° to) the longitudinal axis of tape  108 . In base member  202 , the longitudinal axis of base member  202  is parallel to (e.g., and below) the longitudinal axis of tape  108 . 
     Movable pressure locking wedge  212  of device  200  may be similarly configured as wedge  112  of device  100 , e.g., similarly including a convex outer surface, and an adjacent outer surface which has been flattened or reduced relative to the radius of curvature of the adjacent convex outer surface. The flattened surface need not be fully planar or flat, but merely sufficient to provide the wedge with a non-circular outer surface, which upon rotation allows a location of the outer surface to impinge upon some other structure (e.g., housing  204 ), resulting in a downwardly applied locking force. Such force pinches tape  108  between wedge  212  and the elastomeric layer  210 , or some other structure. In other words, as described above in conjunction with device  100 , a gap may be defined between wedge  212  and housing  204  when handle  214  is in the unlocked position, and as handle  214  is moved to the locked position, this gap is closed or otherwise eliminated, resulting in force engagement between wedge  212  (e.g., an upper surface thereof) and housing  204 , resulting in a downwardly applied force that pinches tape  108 , holding it in place. 
     As shown in the Figures, it is advantageous that the bottom surface of the wedge  212  that contacts tape  108  include a convex curvature that may match, or substantially match (e.g., radiused within some percentage of one another—such as 25%, 10%, 5%, 3%, or 1%) a concave curvature which is typically provided within the top face of tape  108  (i.e., tape  108  is typically concavely curved on its top face, and convexly curved on its bottom face, as shown). Such curvature of the wedge  212  where it engages with tape  108  assists in more tightly gripping and pinching tape  108 , particularly in combination with elastomeric gripping layer  110 , e.g., positioned on the opposite side of tape  108 . In some embodiments, the elastomeric gripping layer (or other engaging surface) could also include a corresponding concave curvature configured to receive the concavely curved bottom surface of tape  108 . 
     The locking structures including a curved wedge and elastomeric gripping layer provide for very tight locking of the tape, when the handle is moved to the locked position. For example, the present inventors have found that a 5 lb weight can be attached to the leading edge  108   a  of the tape  108 , oriented vertically downward (i.e., suspended therefrom), and the tape will remain locked. Thus, the locking mechanism may provide a locking force of more than 2 lbs, more than 3 lbs, more than 4 lbs, more than 5 lbs, more than 6 lbs, or more than 7 lbs (e.g., 5 lbs to 10 lbs, or more). Such a lock is far more reliable than conventional tape measure locks  214 ′. 
     Device  200  further includes a straight edge  218   a . Straight edge  218   a  is parallel to leading edge  108   a  of tape  108 , and orthogonal (e.g., 90°, or perpendicular to) the longitudinal axis of tape  108 . Straight edge  218   a  is advantageous as it provides a well-defined end point to the measurement locked into the device  200 , when such a device is used to measure an outside or inside dimension, as described in conjunction with  FIGS. 4A-4C , above. Such an edge is better defined than the outer housing of typical tape measures (e.g.,  108   b ) as shown, as such housings do not typically include a straight edge, but are often textured surfaces, that are bowed, and rounded. The straight edge  218   a  provides better accuracy as a measurement is taken and locked into the device (e.g., defined between leading edge  108   a  of tape  108  and straight edge  218   a ). 
     For example, the straight edge (e.g.,  218   a ) may be vertical, and flat, at a rear end of the base member, behind the housing of the device (e.g., and behind tape measure  108   b ). This allows the flat rear end straight edge of the base member to be butted against an end of a dimension (inside or outside) and a leading edge of the tape to be extended in an opposite direction. The handle can be actuated to lock the tape between the pressure locking wedge and the elastomeric gripping layer or other surface, so that the dimension corresponds to the distance between the leading edge  108   a  of tape  108  and the rear end straight edge (e.g.,  218   a ) of base member  202 . 
     In an embodiment, the straight edge  218   a  may have a length that extends beyond the width of the rear of the housing of tape measure  108   b  (e.g., base member  202  may be L-shaped, with the bottom leg of the L being straight edge  218   a , rather than a simple rectangular shaped base member  202 . Of course, a rectangular shaped base member is also possible. 
       FIGS. 6A-6B  illustrate another embodiment of a device  300 , providing advantages according to the present invention. Device  300  fully integrates the locking mechanism provided by a movable pressure locking wedge  312  and an elastomeric gripping layer (e.g.,  310   a ,  310   b ) into a tape measure device (e.g., device  300 ), rather than providing a device that is attached or attachable to a separate tape measure  108   b . For example, device  300  includes a base member  302  with a housing  304  supported thereon. A slot  306  is provided at a front end of device  300 , defined between base member  302  and the front wall  304   c  of housing  304 . Tape  108  is shown provided spooled (at  108   d ) within housing  304 , so that device  300  integrates tape  108 , rather than working with a separate tape measure  108   b , which provides the tape  108 . Spooling of tape  108  may be provided by any suitable mechanism, e.g., those currently employed in tape measures (e.g., tape measure  108   b ), as will be appreciated by those of skill in the art. 
     No conventional lock  214 ′ is shown, as device  300  includes locking mechanism such as those described herein. For example, a movable pressure locking wedge  312  may be provided, positioned within housing  304 , and with a handle  314  connected to the pressure locking wedge  312  or otherwise operable therewith. In the illustrated embodiment, rotation of handle  314  moves (e.g., rotates) wedge  312  to pinch tape  108  between wedge  312  and another surface. In the device of  FIG. 300 , the other surface is stationary wedge  326 . Stationary wedge  326  thus may be positioned within housing  304 , on one side of unspooled tape  108 , with movable pressure locking wedge  312  on the other side of stationary wedge  326 . For example, the movable pressure locking wedge  312  may be engagable with the rear face of tape  108 , while stationary wedge  326  may be engagable with the front face of tape  108 . 
     One or both of wedges  312  or  326  may include an elastomeric gripping material disposed thereon, or otherwise comprise an elastomeric gripping material, to aid in the pinching of tape  108 . For example, in the illustrated embodiment, an elastomeric gripping layer  310   b  may be provided under movable pressure locking wedge  312 , and/or wrapped around a portion of the exterior surface of wedge  312 . In the illustrated embodiment, a layer  310   a  is shown disposed along a portion of exterior surface  316  (e.g., convexly curved outer surface  316   a ). A flattened exterior surface  316   b  may also be provided, similarly to wedges  112  and  212 . In an embodiment, the elastomeric gripping layer  310   a  may not extend over flattened surface  316   b , but may stop short thereof. Flat  316   b  may provide a sufficient gap between wedge  312  (surface  316   b ) and tape  108  so that tape  108  is able to freely slide between wedges  326  and  312  when handle  314  is in the unlocked position. In other words, a user may freely pull on leading edge  108   a , extending tape  108  to any desired distance out of housing  304 , when handle  314  and movable locking wedge  312  are in the unlocked position, as shown in  FIG. 6A . 
       FIG. 6B  illustrates the arrangement when handle  314  is rotated downward or otherwise actuated (movement or rotation could be in another direction), locking tape  108  at a desired extension between stationary wedge  326  and movable wedge  312 . For example, leading edge  108   a  may be pulled to extend tape  108  out from housing  304  to a desired length, and when that length is reached handle  314  is rotated downward, locking tape  108  in place, as shown in  FIG. 6B . 
     In  FIGS. 6A-6B  handle  314  and wedge  312  are shown at a location that is below and behind spool  108   d  of tape  108 , about which spool tape  108  winds. Such a spool may be configured to automatically spool tape  108 , absent a pulling force on the tape (e.g., at leading edge  108   a ), or a locking force (e.g., at wedge  312 ). With handle  314  behind spool  108   d , and thus extending out of housing  304  in the same direction (rearwardly) as where straight edge  318   a  of base member  302  is located, it may be advantageous to ensure that handle  314  is sufficiently short so as to not extend past straight edge  318   a , as shown in  FIG. 6A-6B , no matter the position of handle  314 . This aids in ensuring that handle  314  does not interfere with the ability to abut straight edge  318   a  against a surface that may define one end of an inside dimension (e.g., placing straight edge  318   a  against one end of the inside of a cabinet, with the leading edge  108   a  of tape  108  at the other end of the inside dimension of the cabinet). 
       FIGS. 7A-7B  illustrate another embodiment of the inventive device of the present invention. Device  400  is similar to device  300 , in that it includes spool  108   d  for tape  108  housed within housing  404 , with housing  404  supported on base member  402 . Rather than providing the pressure locking wedge and associated components for locking tape  108  at the rear of the device, such components have been provided towards the front of device  400 . Similar to the other devices described herein, a slot  406  is shown provided in housing  404  (e.g., between front housing wall  404   c  and base member  402 . 
     Provided within device  400  is a movable pressure locking wedge  412 , and elastomeric gripping layer  410 . Layer  410  is positioned to contact a face (e.g., rear face) of tape  108  when tape  108  is locked in a desired extended position using a handle  414 . Handle  414  is operable to move pressure locking wedge  412 , allowing selective locking of tape  108  between wedge  412  and another surface (e.g., layer  410 ) upon actuation of handle  414 . Although the previously described embodiments show the actuating handle attached to the movable pressure locking wedge, device  400  includes a handle  414  that is not actually directly connected to wedge  412 , but which is still operable to move wedge  412 . Of course, those handles described herein that are connected to the associated movable wedge are also operable to move the pressure locking wedge. Device  400  includes a hinge  426 , e.g., extending across housing  404  (e.g., attached to sidewalls thereof), which hinge  426  is attached to handle  414 . Handle  414  is shown attached to one side of cylindrical hinge  426  (e.g., configured as a cylindrical dowel or pin). Upon rotation of handle  414  (and hinge  426 ), the arm  414   a  of handle  414  becomes interposed between hinge  426  and movable wedge  412 , forcing wedge  412  downward, closing the gap  417  that previously existed ( FIG. 7A ) between wedge  412  and arm  414   a , causing tape  108  to be pinched between wedge  412  and elastomeric gripping layer  410 . 
       FIGS. 8A-8B  are similar to  FIGS. 4A-4B , but show measurement using device  400  of  FIGS. 7A-7C . 
     Any of the devices according to the present invention (those embodiments described herein, or others) may be used in associated methods, which allow measurement between first and second points, without requiring a user to reference any measurement indicia typically included on a tape of a tape measure. For example, one end (leading edge  108   a ) of a tape  108  may be extended to the first point (e.g., one end of a desk, table top, inside of a cabinet, doorway, other opening, etc.) while aligning a straight edge ( 118   a ,  118   b ,  218   a ,  318   a ,  418   a ) of the device (e.g.,  100 ,  200 ,  300 ,  400 ) with the second point (opposite end of the desk, table top, inside of cabinet, doorway, other opening etc.). With the device locked in place, the desired measurement is defined between the first end of the tape (e.g., leading edge  108 ) and the straight edge  118   a ,  118   b ,  218   a ,  318   a , or  418   a.    
     With the locking device locked to tape  108 , the tape and locking device are moved to a board or other material or object to be cut, marked, or compared using the measurement that is “locked” into or “remembered” by the device and tape  108  locked together. With the end of the tape (leading edge  108   a ) at one end, and the straight edge at the other end designating the point at which the board is to be cut, marked, or compared, this may occur. The board or other material may then be cut, marked, compared or otherwise used with the measurement. This allows the user to translate the measurement taken from between the first and second points from where the measurement was taken (e.g., desk, table top, inside of cabinet, doorway, other opening etc.) to the board or other material, without requiring any reference to measurement indicia that may be on the tape. Of course, it will be appreciated that cutting or marking the board or other material is not necessarily required. For example, one may use the method to measure a desk or other object to be sure that it will fit through a doorway or other opening. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that such methods may similarly be used in a variety of other circumstances where measurement (or comparison of a measurement) is desired. 
     The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrated and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.